THE COMPASS

This week: Crowd-free summers at national parks; overlooked treasures in Rome’s Lazio region; hidden Maya ruins; answers to your burning sunscreen questions; and science-backed mosquito tips.

PHOTOGRAPH BY ANDREA FRAZZETTA, NAT GEO IMAGE COLLECTION

Irresistible reasons to explore Italy’s Lazio region beyond Rome

Travel plans focused on the Eternal City? You may be missing out. Venturing just outside the city center opens up your Italian vacation to magnificent wonders many tourists don’t see.

Related: Your essential guide to visiting sun-kissed Sardinia

PHOTOGRAPH BY DOUGLAS KLUG, GETTY IMAGES

Here’s the secret to having a crowd-free summer at a national park

In the summer, national park visitors tend to head for the hills and valleys. But diving into a park’s lakes, rivers, and oceans brings cool wonders to the surface, from shipwrecks to vibrant reefs.

Related: Escape the crowds at the lower 48’s most remote park

PHOTOGRAPH BY JON G. FULLER, VWPICS/REDUX

Where to find hidden archaeological wonders in Mexico’s popular Yucatán Peninsula

Chichén Itzá, one of the world’s great structures, shouldn’t be missed. Neither should these equally iconic ruins that delve into Maya history.

Related: From Peru to Egypt, get your hands dirty on these once-in-a-lifetime archaeology trips

TOOLS AND TIPS TO TRAVEL BETTER

PAID CONTENT FOR SAN DIEGO TOURISM AUTHORITY

PHOTOGRAPH BY KILIII YÜYAN

Discover San Diego's culture of happiness

San Diego stands out as one of the happiest places to visit, with sunny year-round weather, expansive coastlines, locally sourced food, a vibrant downtown, and abundant cultural attractions. Uncover the close-knit community, rich history, and sprawling green spaces in America’s finest city with National Geographic Photographer Kiliii Yüyan.

TRAVEL JOURNAL

PHOTOGRAPH BY THEO STROOMER

With over 1,500 independent shops, this metropolis is the hole-y grail of donuts

In a city known for its kale salads and acai bowls, it may seem like locals wouldn’t care much for sugary treats. These popular mom-and-pops prove otherwise.

Related: In this lush New York region, fresh apple cider donuts are a year-round treat

PHOTOGRAPH BY JOEL SARTORE, NAT GEO IMAGE COLLECTION

Is it possible to keep mosquitos away? Scientists say yes.

Memorial Day weekend signals the start of summer and everything that comes with it, including mosquitos. Scientists can help prevent these pesky buggers from ruining your travel plans.

Related: You really are a mosquito magnet. Here’s what you can do about it.

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