Plan your next vacation with the Windows 8 Travel app

(Credit: Screenshot by Lance Whitney/CNET)

Those of you planning your next getaway can get a helping hand from Microsoft's Windows 8 Travel app.

Introduced in the Windows 8 Release Preview, the Travel app conjures up photos, articles, and loads of other data on vacation spots throughout the world. You can use the app to find the perfect paradise or look up information if you already know where you're going.

You can also get details on airports, hotels, and restaurants, and even book your air travel and make your hotel reservations by going through the app itself. Here's a quick look at how to use the app to map out your next trip:

1. From the Start screen in the Windows 8 Release Preview, click on the tile for Travel.


2. The Travel app opens to reveal the featured destination. Scroll to the right to see more destinations, panoramic photos of different locations, and various travel articles.


3. You can browse through the different featured destinations until you find one that strikes your fancy. Or you can search for a specific destination if you already have one in mind.


4. Let's say you're planning a trip to Paris. Hold down the Windows key and press Q to display the Search bar. In... [Read more]