Cape Town: This summer’s must-do magic

Setting up a petite, garden-size game of kubb at the King’s Garden in Copenhagen. Maria Adelmann/NYT Wirecutter It was a surprising turn of events because I’ve never been much of a yard-game gal. Growing up, cornhole felt too basic, croquet had a stuffy air, and I was quickly beaten in badminton by an older brother….

Mel Plaut/NYT Wirecutter There are a variety of beds, cots, and mats that might help your dog or cat get less hot while they snooze the day away, in addition to the fans and ACs that you may already be running to keep yourself cool. Cooling beds and elevated cots There are loads of pet…

We arrived at Triple Creek Ranch at dusk, just as the snow began to shimmer. White lights buried beneath snow-covered pine boughs glowed. Up ahead, the grand Main Lodge was a welcome sight. After my journey–a delayed flight and a rough connection, arriving at Triple Creek Ranch, I felt like a cowhand being welcomed to…

I bought my first pair of Nike Blazers in late 2018. It was the sleek, leather high top (it’s not canvas like on your typical Converse or Vans pair) and the suede detail of the shoes that caught my eye. Once I started wearing them, though, I was surprised by how versatile they were. The…

Marki Williams/NYT Wirecutter Upgrade pick The Osprey Hydrajet 12 and Osprey Jet 18 are similar in size to REI’s options and have most of the same features. The Osprey packs cost more, but they offer a couple of appealing upgrades over the REI designs that may be worth the premium if your kid is a…

Hannah Schwob for NYT Wirecutter Gold-standard hairspray: L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hair Spray Unscented The supremely fine unscented mist is beloved by industry professionals for good reason: The hold is sturdy and reliable, without any crunch or unsightly flaking. With just six ingredients — somewhat of an anomaly in the hairspray category…