Photo of author Opheli Garcia Lawler

Opheli Garcia Lawler

Staff Writer

Opheli Garcia Lawler is a former senior staff writer at Thrillist. She holds a bachelor's and master's degree in Journalism from NYU's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute. She's worked in digital media for seven years, and before working at Thrillist, she wrote for Mic, The Cut, The Fader, Vice, and other publications.

Latest Posts From Opheli

Homeland Security sign for REAL ID at entrance to passenger TSA security area

You Only Have Three Months to Get a Real ID

After nearly two decades of delays, the Real ID will start being enforced May 7, 2025

A photo of Beyoncé for her new album, Cowboy Carter, featuring the singer in a cowboy hat.

11 Epic Places to Stay Inspired by Beyoncé's 'Cowboy Carter'

Queen Bey just announced her highly anticipated tour, but the western vibes don't have to wait

A hand covering the in-flight entertainment screen on a Delta flight

Is This The Most Nefarious Thing a Person Can Do on a Flight?

This move might be the most villainous behavior on any flight.

Preparation travel suitcase at home

The Best Way to Pack Dirty Laundry, According to an Expert

Never dread opening your suitcase again.

Beautiful sunset of Saigon skyline, aerial view of Business and Administrative District

Vietnam Is Getting a Bullet Train

The high-speed rail will connect Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

A crowded commercial airplane with people sitting in the seats.

Would You Make This Bold Move on a Full Flight?

A viral Reddit post questions the thought process of sitting in a seat that's not yours on a packed plane.

Beautiful landscape of sunrise over Vestrahorn mountain with clump of grass on black sand beach in Stokksnes peninsula on the southeastern at Iceland.

The Best Travel Tuesday Deals You Can't Miss This Year

Travel Tuesday is bigger than ever, but don't worry; we've highlighted the best deals here.

A collage of Julia Roberts, Elton John, and Janet Jackson at the airport in the 1990s.

These ’90s Celebrity Airport Photos Are Perfect Travel Inspiration

Or, if you’re a “sweats on the plane” sort of person, just some regular style inspiration.

Aerial sunset panoramic landscape luxury tropical resort water villas. Beautiful island beach orange sunrise sea sky. Amazing bird eyes panorama Maldives paradise tropical bay.

This Year’s Best Black Friday Travel Deals

Plus bonus Cyber Monday savings.

A collage featuring Doechii and some of her travel essentials.

Doechii Keeps the Window Shade Down on Flights

The Grammy-nominated rapper and singer reveals her hot takes and tips from touring the world.

Beautiful sunset over Cartagena, Colombia

The South American City With Turquoise Waters and Endless Inspiration

Whether you’re a foodie seeking the freshest ingredients or an adventurer looking for reef dives and horseback riding, there’s something for you in Cartagena.

The Soft-Sided Luggage Renaissance Is Here

The Soft-Sided Luggage Renaissance Is Here

After nearly a decade of hard-sided luggage dominating the travel scene, a stylish new crop of soft-sided suitcase is making its way to the market.