80 million travelers expected this Thanksgiving — find out where they’re going and how to avoid jams

Travel and food are two of my biggest passions in life. And any time I get to combine those two passions into one mission — I get especially excited. As travelers like myself continue to seek out more meaningful, experience-driven getaways, some of the most exciting culinary discoveries are taking place beyond the world’s traditional foodie capitals.

From hidden wine regions and coastal towns celebrated for their seafood traditions to unexpected resort destinations blending luxury hospitality with authentic local flavors, we’ve complied a list of some of the best under-the-radar culinary destinations you won’t want to miss. These destinations give travelers a chance to eat, drink, and experience a destination like a true local. Don’t miss these upcoming events taking place across the country, geared towards foodies like us.

There’s no question that Ocean Casino Resort is the nicest Atlantic City hotel & casino resort — and most Atlantic City regulars would agree. While there are other hotels I love for different unique reasons, Ocean Casino Resort is an overall great choice for the majority of visitors. You just can’t beat the vibes of Ocean Casino Resort that remind me more of Vegas than any other hotel resort in the area. From the taller ceilings to the modern rooms, the entire stay experience here is designed to feel a bit more luxury than was once associated with Atlantic City. Plus, you can’t beat those incredible ocean views you get from the floor-to-ceiling windows in the guest rooms.

Though I’ve been to Ocean Casino Resort many times in the past, my most recent visit made me fall in love with this resort all over again. Every time I come back here I find something new to explore — whether it’s the Enomatic wine dispensers at Bottled Wine Bar or Ocean’s 18 mini golf, this hotel is the spot to be for guests who want a different experience every time they visit Atlantic City. Sure, there’s something to be said for going back to your favorite restaurant or playing at the same blackjack table you always win on. But, frequent visitors like myself want something new to look forward to during every visit. It’s clear Ocean Casino Resort understands this, especially after checking out their most recent innovation: America’s Birthday Bar.

A new limited-edition tequila is bringing together two of Mexico’s most celebrated cultural traditions in a single bottle. Reserva de la Familia, the luxury tequila brand from Jose Cuervo, has unveiled Private Cask Collection Edition No. 2: Mole Cask, the first tequila finished in mole-seasoned barrels.

The release highlights the deep connection between Mexico’s culinary and distilling heritage. The tequila begins its journey in the agave fields surrounding Tequila, Jalisco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its historic agave landscape and tequila production. It is then finished in barrels seasoned with mole, one of Mexico’s most iconic dishes and part of the country’s UNESCO-recognized Intangible Cultural Heritage of traditional cuisine.