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Westland’s New Garry Oak Whiskey Captures the Pacific Northwest’s Rare Forest Flavors

Many of the best distilleries around the world try their best to add a sense of place to their spirits. Laws Whiskey House in Colorado and Frey’s Ranch in Nevada both lean on hyper-local grain sourcing, for example, Scotland’s Highland Park in Orkney uses peat from nearby Hobbister Moor to dry a portion of its malt. For Westland Distillery in Seattle, the connection to its home region is delivered in a way nowhere else is experimenting with: through Garry oak.

Westland has been working with the Pacific Northwest species for a decade, and recently released it’s most place-driven whiskey yet with Garryana American Single Malt 10th Edition.

The Garry oak (Quercus garryana) only grows from southern British Columbia, through Washington and Oregon, and into parts of northern California. Unlike American white oak, which most of the country’s whiskey distilleries use, Garry oak imparts a wilder, spicier character with notes of clove, smoke, and earth. Westland master blender Shane Armstrong notes in a letter that it brings a specific quote from Dune to mind: “The spice extends life…expands consciousness.”

Garry oak’s density and irregular grain make it hard to cooper and expensive to source. On top of that, Garry oak forests have shrunk drastically due to agriculture and development, making sustainable harvesting essential — only about 5 percent of its original habitat remains, according to Westland.

Westland recognized its potential early on, championing it as a signature of the Pacific Northwest. I’ve tried nearly all of the Garryana series released over the years and I’ve always been impressed with how it manages to bring something new to the oversaturated shelves in liquor stores. The 10 takes that all up a notch and, if my memory serves me right, is my favorite one yet.

Photo: Westland Distillery

In this case, going local means getting something you truly can’t find anywhere else.

“There is a magic to working with an oak species unique to our region,” Armstrong, who has led the 10-year-old Garryana series from the beginning, said in a press release. “A shorthand for showcasing how Single Malt Whiskey makes sense here, from raw materials and climate to inspiration and collaboration. Each edition seeks a supporting cast to concentrate or contrast. This release, our very first to boast an age statement, represents refinement over time, a small gesture to all those tasks tallied in service of something new.”

Garry oak is notoriously difficult to work with. Unlike the groomed, predictable staves from managed forests of American white oak, Garry oak is wild, gnarled, brittle, and low-yielding. Each year’s harvest yields different challenges, different results, and a whiskey that’s different every year. Westland had to build its own supply chain from the ground up by partnering with foresters, mills, and coopers to source the wood ethically. Through these efforts, the distillery has also committed to restoration and stewardship, working to preserve and restore Garry oak habitat.

Westland’s barley is grown in Washington, distilled and aged at the Seattle distillery and in Skagit Valley, and finished in a mix of Garry oak, Pedro Ximénez, rum, and ex-bourbon casks.

The best way to experience what makes Westland’s Pacific Northwest focus so special is to go to the Seattle distillery. Visitors can immerse themselves in this regional narrative through tours, tastings, and a distillery bar. It might be harder to try this bottle at home, however. Washington gets the first allocation starting on October The already-limited release became even more rare when a truckload of Garryana 10 was stolen en route to New Jersey. Only about 4,600 bottles remain and sell for about $150. For people who love tasting the places they travel to, though, the effort is worth it.

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Inside One of Tulum’s Most Stunning Airbnbs – Rooftop Pool Included

Finding the perfect place to stay in Tulum can feel overwhelming with so many Tulum Airbnbs, but Casa Arca stands out as one of the town’s most visually stunning Airbnbs. This three-bedroom luxury penthouse offers a combination of artistic design, spacious comfort, and an incredible private rooftop that makes it feel like your own private jungle retreat.

We hope you love Casa Arca Tulum! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.

Casa Arca’s interior design perfectly captures Tulum’s signature boho-chic aesthetic. Inside you’ll find several carefully curated contemporary art pieces that give the space a unique character. The open-concept layout and gigantic windows throughout make the apartment very spacious and inviting. The living area has what might be the largest couch with the most pillows you’ve ever seen – perfect for relaxing after a day out exploring. The kitchen is fully equipped and you’ll find everything you could possibly need, including beautiful dinnerware that complements the overall aesthetic.

 

@epic.stays Arched doorways, sun-drenched rooms, and interiors that prove thoughtful design never goes out of style Casa Arca Tulum features spaces where every detail has been considered, from textured walls to the way natural light moves through each room. @Pink Plankton #casaarcatulum #interiordesign #mediterraneanstyle #luxurystay #airbnb ♬ original sound – Epic Stays

Casa Arca sleeps up to eight guests with a total of nine beds in three bedrooms, making it perfect for families or large groups. The first bedroom has two double beds and two bunk beds. The second bedroom has two double beds, and the spacious master bedroom has a comfortable king-size bed. Each bedroom comes with its own ensuite bathroom.

The true crown jewel of Casa Arca is the beautifully designed rooftop space. Here you’ll find a large dining table and kitchenette with a gas barbecue and a mini fridge to keep drinks cold. There is also a rooftop pool and a picturesque staircase leading up to a lookout area with comfortable loungers and a panoramic view of the surrounding jungle. There’s even a cozy indoor lounge area with plenty of plush pillows for when you want a more intimate atmosphere without giving up the rooftop vibe. Every corner of Casa Arca is thoughtfully and artistically designed, which will leave you with countless photo-worthy moments throughout your stay.

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How to get to Casa Arca

Photo: Jessica DevnaniPhoto: Jessica DevnaniPhoto: Jessica DevnaniPhoto: Jessica Devnani
Casa Arca is located in Tulum’s upscale Holistika neighborhood, an area known for its lush, undeveloped jungle surroundings. The penthouse is approximately 90 minutes from Cancun International Airport or about 40 minutes from the newer Tulum International Airport. While taxis are available, renting a car is highly recommended to explore both the town and the surrounding area. Tulum’s famous hotel zone beach road and several cenotes and lagoons are just a short drive away.

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Corcovado Wilderness Lodge Is the Sustainable Gateway to Costa Rica’s Most Remote National Park

We had been on the Sierpe River about an hour before my “so, are we close yet?” instinct kicked in. I knew getting to the Corcovado Wilderness Lodge wouldn’t be as simple as an Uber ride from the airport. After all, the lodge was perched on a cliff in the middle of a rainforest in the Osa Peninsula–the most remote region of Costa Rica–and inaccessible by roads. I also knew staying there would be an adventure – but didn’t expect getting there to be an adventure too.

The town of Sierpe is about a five-hour drive south of San Jose. That’s where you’ll hop on a small boat and cruise down the Sierpe river for about an hour, winding through lush mangrove forests, before the river opens into the ocean. But you’re not home sweet home just yet. Another 45-minute cruise along the picturesque Pacific coastline ends with a mid-ocean transfer onto an even smaller boat (not as sketchy as it sounds), and finally a wet landing on the lodge’s beach.

Or you could just fly from San Jose to Drake Bay, a nearby small airport, and hop on the ocean from there. But that’s not as much fun.

The last small leg of the journey is a truck ride from the beach up a winding road to the top of the cliff, where the rooms, open-air restaurants, pool, and reception are located. The ride takes less than 10 minutes, but before it’s over you’ll likely have seen at least three new animal species, felt a palm frond graze your cheek, and realized that though the hotel was built by humans, nature still runs the place.

Treehouse living

Photo courtesy Corcovado Wilderness Lodge

In the spirit of leaving as light an environmental footprint as possible, many of the rooms here are built using sustainable materials, and unassumingly tucked away in the rainforest, accessible by a raised wooden walkway. The Oceanview Treehouses manage to be both rugged and modern, surrounded almost entirely by trees, windowed walls on three sides, and with decks overlooking the distant ocean.

The ceiling is light but sturdy canvas material, meaning you’ll be constantly immersed in the sounds of the rainforest, but don’t have to worry about leaks or uninvited animal visitors. During my time there, I formed a special connection with two birds who perched on my roof every night and twittered back and forth for about an hour. Though another treehouse might sit just 30 yards away, you feel like you have the whole forest to yourself.

Despite this feeling of relative isolation, no modern amenities are sacrificed (except single-use plastics). The AC works wonderfully–a must anywhere in Costa Rica–the Wi-Fi is way more reliable than you’d expect, and there’s an outdoor bathtub and hammock with ocean views. I stayed there for four days, and didn’t even notice the absence of a TV until I was checking out.

Gateway to Corcovado National Park

Photo: boivin nicolas /Shutterstock

As nice as outdoor bathtubs might be, the lodge’s most valuable calling card is its location on the edge of Corcovado National Park, one of the most remote parks in Costa Rica. Described by National Geographic as the “most biologically diverse place on earth,” the national park covers about a third of the Osa Peninsula, and is home to rivers, beaches, cloud forests, mangrove swamps, and marshes. Given its ecological diversity, it’s no surprise that over 500 different animal species live there–from colorful macaws and toucans to beasts of prey like pumas and jaguars.

It’s illegal to enter the park without the company of a guide, and right now, Corcovado Wilderness Lodge is the only hotel with direct hiking access. Spanning 450,000 acres, it’s hard to conceive of just how large the park and reserves actually are. And easy to understand why you’re only allowed to enter with a guide. But rather than feel vast and intimidating, there’s something primal and energetic about Corcovado National Park. The animals hardly take notice of you as you navigate the rough walking trails, too busy looking for food, caring for their young, or finding shelter. You could probably spend your whole life in the park without seeing all the species of frogs, birds, and reptiles.

That’s part of the park’s allure: the sense that you’ve entered a remote landscape unspoiled by human development, and can connect with the natural world without distraction or pretense.

Explore the rainforest

Photo: Aga Przybylska /Shutterstock

Since you can’t just go wandering haphazardly through the rainforest, the lodge has a variety of organized tours that do more than bring you safely through the wild surroundings–they give you an educational crash course in what makes the area so special.

My first introduction to Corcovado National Park was, ironically, at night. Night walks are designed for seeing creatures that only come out at night, which can be a little nerve wracking if you’re not used to wandering around a remote rainforest in the dark with nothing more than a flashlight (and who is?). Luckily, the lodge’s guides are incredibly knowledgeable and know the forest trails like you know the streets around your house. On my hike, the mission was to find glass frogs, a rare frog species whose abdominal skin is translucent, meaning you can actually see the animal’s last meal sitting in its stomach. It sounds like a gross mission, but it was fun to have a goal as we made our way through the dark rainforest; the sense of isolation and disconnectedness was profound, in a good way, and even when it started raining it felt almost like nature’s baptism.

Finding a tapir while avoiding crocodiles

Photo: Wirestock Creators /Shutterstock

While I certainly recommend a night hike, most rainforest hikes take place in the early morning, when animals are active. And yes, it helps to be able to see the lush leafy canopy, and rugged coast, without a flashlight.

“We will probably not cross the river today,” our guide said at the outset. “It rained a lot last night, and there may be crocodiles.”

May be crocodiles? Yeah. Let’s not cross the river.

The first part of our hike took us along muddy trails as we tracked tapir–large mammals crossed between a pig and horse, native to the tropical regions of Central America. Along the way, we saw scarlet macaws and toucans in the trees, coati scurrying through the brush, and heard the wails of howler monkeys high up in the canopy. Sometimes you’d feel a drop of rain on your head, and look up to discover it was actually dew shaken off the trees by monkeys leaping between branches.

Photo: Gail Johnson /Shutterstock

When we reached the ranger station, on the edge of the Sirena River, our guide addressed our group after a brief aside with the ranger.

“We will cross the river,” he said. “The tide is low. Probably, there will not be so many crocodiles.”

Probably is fine for telling someone you might show up to a party; estimating the risk of a crocodile attack is a different story. It’s all part of “pura vida,” the famous Costa Rican mindset of outlook of optimism and positivity, free from needless worry and the rigid constraints of punctuality. In a word: probably.

Trusting the guide, we took off our mud boots and forded the river on foot. As you might have guessed–since I still have fingers to type these words–we had no trouble from crocodiles and safely reached the other side, where we continued to track the tapir. Following our guide’s extraordinary sense of smell, we forged off-trail through a thickening forest, which suddenly (and refreshingly) opened up onto the beach. A tapir stood on its hind legs, trying to reach some low-hanging mangoes in a tree.

Though commuting with the rainforest–and communing a little too intimately with the river–is what a visit to the Osa Peninsula is all about, there are plenty of other nature experiences to be had, too. You can take a snorkel or diving tour off the coast of nearby Caño Island, take a birdwatching stroll, or watch the sunset from an innovative treetop hammock. If you feel like exploring on your own, walk down from the lodge to the black sand beach, where you’ll find a sea cave at low tide.

Sustainability is central at Corcovado Wilderness Lodge

Photo courtesy Corcovado Wilderness Lodge

I’m embarrassed to admit that I didn’t know much about conservation before I came to the Corcovado Wilderness Lodge. I knew it was important, and had vague ideas about what constituted sustainable hospitality, but had never stayed on a property where conservation was a central part of the governing ethos. It’s impossible to stay here without becoming more informed about the Osa Peninsula’s highly unique biome, and feeling intimately invested in local conservation. You can’t be the most biologically diverse rainforest on earth without environmentally-focused stewards passionate about preserving it.

While my guide, Adrian, drove me down from San Jose to Sierpe, where we caught the boat to the lodge, he gushed with enthusiasm for Corcovado National Park and the hotel’s conservation mission. He told me about how a portion of each hotel stay supports onsite environmental research, and how the hotel collaborates with local communities to clean and restore beaches. Unsurprisingly, there are no single-use plastics onsite, but even more impressively, collected plastics are recycled into materials used in creative ways around the lodge, from decor to building construction. Fifty percent of tour fees go toward conservation research, and 2 to 3 percent of each stay goes to the Blue Warrior Program, which teaches local children skills in sustainable tourism to get them out of the commercial fishing industry.

Photo: Koen’s Photography /Shutterstock

“I had to get out of San Jose,” Adrian said, as he showed me around the village where he and the other guides and staff live. The village is set back from the main property, tucked away in its own private corner of the rainforest, with a greenhouse, garden, and soccer field. It’s like a summer camp for sustainability-focused adults. “The city is so constricting. Coming to a place like this allows you to breathe fresh air. To be a human. To reconnect with nature. To remember we’re all a part of the natural world, and not cyborgs.”

He then encouraged me to walk through the garden without my shoes, to feel the energy through my feet. It turns out, the garden was his idea. He explained how a few months ago, he had approached the owner, Blake Delatte, with an idea for educating guests about the property’s farm-to-table food ethos. Delate empowered him to expand the garden and spearhead a guest education program. Now guests can choose to visit the worker’s village, and gather their own fruits and vegetables from the garden before cooking them into a meal. Adrian also sets up and monitors camera traps in the jungle to help the lodge better understand the behaviors of pumas, jaguars, and other animals.

Living and working in Corcovado are essentially the same thing for Adrian, and for the other staff. It takes a special personality to live on the edge of the country’s most remote rainforest, and dedicate your life to conservation and guest education. But their enthusiasm is infectious.

“Sometimes,” he said, “you need to go somewhere extreme to truly reconnect and enjoy being present. To enjoy being part of something bigger.”

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Where to Play, Eat, and Stay in Macon, Georgia, This Halloween

During a tour of the Douglass Theatre in Macon, Georgia, my tour guide, who was playing the role of a ghostly employee, explained how important this theater was to Black citizens as the first African American theater in Georgia. Then he faced the seats and said, “Isn’t that right, Mr. Douglass?”

Eerily, Mr. Douglass, who died in 1940, replied by flickering all of the lights. On then off. On then off. Then two more times until we left the stage. It was the first, but not the last, ghostly experience I had in Macon.

Macon is the epicenter of lots of lore, legends, and haunted tales, which is no surprise considering people have been living in the area for 12,000 years, starting with the Mississippian people in 900 CE and later the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, who still call it home. After the city was founded in 1823 by white European settlers, it became a hub for cotton production as a result of the work of enslaved Black people, and eventually played a role in the Civil War. Later, it became the home of Wesleyan College, the first US college to grant women college degrees; a hub for musicians like Otis Redding, Little Richard, and Ma Rainey; and the adopted home of The Allman Brothers Band.

This October, I got the chance to experience Macon in all its facets, and I wasn’t surprised to discover that there are quite a few spooky and ghostly things wrapped up in the city’s historical, cultural, culinary, and architectural offerings. Here’s how to experience all of the hauntingly fun things to do in “The Heart of Georgia” for yourself.

Things to do in Macon during spooky season

Embrace all the seasonal events

Paranormal inversigation at the Burke House. Photo: Alex Temblador

October is a special time of year for Macon, with several annual spooky events. There are multiple ghost tours, like the Haunts and History on the Hill tour that guides people through supernatural happenings in the historic buildings in College Hill Corridor, or the 1.5-hour Macon Macabre Walking Tour in the historic district that covers ghosts, murders, and lore.

The weekend before Halloween, Macon hosts a Halloween street party with a Thriller parade, featuring 100 zombie dancers recreating the “Thriller” dance in downtown. There’s also a Witches Float, where 100-plus witchy participants float down the Ocmulgee River in witch costumes and decorated canoes.

At the beginning of October, I got to experience a four-hour paranormal investigation at the Burke House with the Macon Beyond paranormal investigation team. I witnessed many unexplainable and supernatural things. It was the first time Macon Beyond held this event, and it was a huge success, so keep your eye out for future investigations.

Mingle with spirits at Hay House

Photos: Alex Temblador

Known as the Palace of the South, the Hay House draws visitors for its Italian Renaissance Revival architecture, five levels of grand rooms and stained-glass windows, and a beautiful cupola with views of Macon — not to mention the ghostly residents that still move about the 18,000-square-foot mansion and museum. Employees have noted spinning chandeliers, lights that shouldn’t turn on, and other spooky happenings. Macon Beyond filmed an episode at Hay House, noting many ghostly hot spots on various levels.

The house tour is magnificent even without the ghostly tales (there’s a hidden room where a treasure trove of gold may have been kept), but those interested in supernatural stories should take the Legends & Lore at Hay House tour offered every October.

Hay House: 934 Georgia Ave, Macon, GA 31201

Catch a show at the ghostly Douglass Theatre

Photo: Alex Temblador

I mentioned the Douglass Theatre’s haunted happenings above. While it’s true that some odd things like flickering lights and sounds have been seen and heard, the best way to experience the magic of the Douglass Theatre is to catch a live show, be it a musical performance, comedy show, or play. Opened in 1921 by Charles Henry Douglass and Fannie Appling Douglass, the theater was a hot spot for musicians like Otis Redding, Ma Rainey, and James Brown. It also doubled as a hotel listed in the Green Book for Black travelers. The theater was created to give the state’s African American community equal access to entertainment, and whether you take a tour or catch a show, you’ll feel the love, the respect, and the spirit of the Douglasses throughout it all.

Douglass Theatre: 355 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Macon, GA 31201

Tour the Riverside Cemetery

Photo: Alex Temblador

Established in 1887, Riverside Cemetery is a 125-acre terraced cemetery that’s well worth a jaunt and exploration. While I heard some spooky stories about Riverside Cemetery, like ghost sightings and a hole that leads to hell, I didn’t witness any during my morning visit. That said, every October, the cemetery hosts Lies and Alibis, a one-hour guided tour in the evenings featuring costumed actors portraying some of the most fascinating figures from Macon’s past. Don’t expect a scary haunted tour but rather one that highlights the fun of lore, cemeteries, and storytelling.

Riverside Cemetery: 1301 Riverside Dr, Macon, GA 31216

Mix history and hauntings at The Big House

Photos: Alex Temblador

Back in the early 1970s, The Allman Brothers Band lived and wrote some of their most famous songs in the Big House. The home has been turned into an amazing museum full of notable items and displays of one of the biggest rock bands in history. Bonus? The house is said to be haunted by a young girl who fell down the stairs and died over 150 years ago. Even the Allman Brothers and their wives experienced some of her playful pranks — be it noises or slight shoves on the stairway.

The Big House: 2321 Vineville Ave, Macon, GA 31204

Where to eat and drink in Macon

H&H Soul Food Restaurant

Photo: Alex Temblador

H&H Soul Food Restaurant is the go-to breakfast and lunch spot in town — just ask the ghosts of The Allman Brothers Band. The band members were fed by Louise Hudson who founded the restaurant with Inez Hill, which is why you’ll find a large colorful mural of the band and Hudson and Hill on the side of the building. I chowed down on the restaurant’s biscuits and sausage gravy for breakfast, though it’s said that the fried chicken is a big hit at lunch. You can’t go wrong with the chicken and dumplings and unique biscuit combinations like the Midnight Rider, featuring fried chicken with bacon jam and pimento cheese.

H&H Soul Food Restaurant: 807 Forsyth St, Macon, GA 31201

The Rookery

Photo: Alex Temblador

Bite into the best burgers in Macon at The Rookery. Before I devoured a Walden Greenback Burger (with fried green tomatoes, chevre, bacon, and sun-dried tomato remoulade), my tastebuds were delighted by the Solid Gold Soul Rolls (eggrolls filled with fried chicken, pimento cheese, and collard greens served with peach chili sauce). My only regret was seeing the October special after I ordered. Called the Vampire Slayer, it involves a burger with aioli, but instead of two buns, the meat is held together with two grilled cheeses on either side.

The Rookery: 543 Cherry St, Macon, GA 31201

Just Tap’d

Photo: Alex Temblador

Just Tap’d serves 64 taps of craft beer, as well as a large list of cocktails and wine that pair well with bar food like loaded potato skins, pizzas, and soda floats. Say hello to Janice for me — she’s just one of many staff that make things fun and lively with bar trivia nights and seasonal favorites like a pumpkin spice white Russian cocktail.

Just Tap’d: 488 1st St, Macon, GA 31201

Piedmont Brewery & Kitchen

Photo: Alex Temblador

At Piedmont Brewery & Kitchen, chow down on barbecue and wash it down with in-house craft beer. Pork belly features prominently on the menu, but don’t overlook the wings, fish and chips, mac and cheese platter, country fried brisket, or grit fritters (fried grits topped with pulled pork and Carolina BBQ sauce). There’s also a family-friendly classic game room for the whole family to enjoy.

Piedmont Brewery & Kitchen: 450-B 3rd St, Macon, GA 31201

Longleaf Distilling Co.

Photo: Alex Temblador

Longleaf Distilling Co. feels like a bit of a hidden gem in Macon, as it’s on the edge of the historic downtown, but I’d like to sound the alarm for all to visit. While its buffalo dip, jalapeno poppers, and meat pies are divine, the real showstoppers are the in-house liquors and liqueurs. In the back, the team distills its own gin, vodka, and the most delicious liqueurs I’ve ever tasted. My favorites were the Alba, a blue butterfly pea liqueur that changes color with citrus, and the Liqueur of Life, which tasted soft and fresh to me (but slightly different to my friend). The Hawkins Way cocktail — featuring high tea and Alba liqueur, grenadine, grapefruit, and lemon — blew me away.

Longleaf Distilling Co.: 664 2nd St, Macon, GA 31201

The Dovetail

Photo: Alex Temblador

The Dovetail was my favorite restaurant in Macon, as it serves high-quality Southern cuisine with local ingredients. I started with deviled eggs and cornbread muffins lathered in honey butter before digging into my entrée of pan-seared swordfish on a bed of grits. Dessert was the famous cracked pie, featuring salted caramel gelato and toffee. This restaurant shows that Southern cuisine can be elevated yet accessible to all who crave a great meal.

The Dovetail: 543 Cherry St, Suite B, Macon, GA 31201

The Rose Room and The Man Upstairs

Photo: Alex Temblador

If you’re looking for a classic bar for happy hour or after-dinner drinks, visit the pink-colored Rose Room or the speakeasy-like cocktail bar The Man Upstairs. The Rose Room’s cocktails are stunning and tasteful works of art, like the Gulaab, a cocktail with rose- and harissa-infused mezcal, pink peppercorn, mint grenadine, and lime. The Man Upstairs is a small but very cool find with mouthwatering cocktails like the Copacetic, featuring tequila, heimbeergeist (a raspberry spirit), grenadine, lemon, and egg white, topped with an orange peel.

The Rose Room: 378 2nd St, Macon, GA 31201

The Man Upstairs: 562 Mulberry Street Lane, Macon, GA 31201

Where to stay in Macon

1842 Inn

Photos: Alex Temblador

The 1842 Inn is a Greek Revival mansion built in 1842 by John Gresham, a former mayor of the city, that’s been turned into a charming boutique hotel. Here, I had American breakfasts in the courtyard, tea in the parlors, relaxed in my room in a cozy robe, and enjoyed a glass of wine from the bar in a rocking chair on Macon’s best front porch. The historic hotel features 19 rooms — and a ghost or two. The workers were a bit tight-lipped on the spirit activity, but I awoke in the Magnolia Room in the middle of the night feeling four light touches on my shoulder. Apparently, the ghost of a little girl plays on the second floor with her red ball. Others have noticed a little boy ghost and an adult male and female ghost. If you’re looking for a particularly spooky experience, you might want to stay in the Dogwood or John Gresham room, both of which had a lot of haunted activity during a Macon Beyond paranormal investigation.

1842 Inn: 353 College St, Macon, GA 31201

Burke Mansion

Photo: Alex Temblador

The Burke Mansion is an equally charming and haunted historic place to stay. Built in 1887, it features a Queen Ann Victorian style. Here, you’ll enjoy comfortable beds in five suites, an evening happy hour, and a coffee station. I visited the Burke Mansion for a paranormal investigation, witnessing flickering lights, unexplained shadows, and conversations with ghosts via paranormal instruments. I’m convinced that the previous owners and their family members are quite present at the Burke Mansion, protecting their pride and joy.

Burke Mansion: 1085 Georgia Ave, Macon, GA 31201

Getting to and around Macon

Photo: Alex Temblador

Macon is a 1.25-hour drive from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), the busiest airport in the world. Although it’s a hub for Delta, I flew in from Dallas on an American Airlines flight, then rented a car from Budget and made the short drive to Macon. Because the airport is south of Atlanta, and Macon is south of the airport, I didn’t really experience any traffic to or from Macon.

Most of Macon’s popular spots (spooky or otherwise) sit within or near the historic downtown. My hotel, the 1842 Inn, was an 18-minute walk from the historic downtown; however, I’d usually park the car in the downtown area, then walk five to 10 minutes to my next tour or restaurant.

If you decide to drive to some of the destinations listed above, keep in mind that many of the historic landmarks, like the Hay House or The Big House, have limited parking. Macon’s downtown parking spots aren’t free but require three-hour parking space bookings with ParkMobile (at least until 8 PM when parking is free).

Taxis aren’t common in Macon, and while there are some rideshare options, they’re limited. Your best bet is to drive or walk most places. I felt comfortable walking during the day and in some cases at night, though you may want to keep in mind that the downtown area gets quite lively on the weekends.

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8 Can’t-Miss Experiences in Germany and Italy, According to Your Travel Style

Home to some of the most iconic and historic cities anywhere — many of which Lufthansa flies to from major US hubs — Germany and Italy offer something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking to celebrate food in Rome, fashion in Milan, or the holiday season in Munich, these are world-class destinations steeped in their own transportive traditions. For your next Eurotrip, focus more on the “Euro” and less on the “trip” by beelining to these conveniently accessible cities in Germany and Italy, based on your travel style.

MUSEUMS & MONUMENTSDive deep into German history in Berlin…

Photo: Feel Good Studio/Shutterstock

By day, Berlin bustles with iconic attractions, from the Berlin Wall and Museum Island to Checkpoint Charlie and the Jewish Museum. Among its architectural icons are the glass-domed Reichstag Building, the seat of the German government, and the Brandenburg Gate, the city’s instantly recognizable monument that’s a symbol of old and new, East and West. Beyond its monuments, Berlin’s neighborhoods brim with creativity, from Kreuzberg’s street art to Neukölln’s multicultural imports. Together, these must-sees make Berlin not only a living museum of European history but also a dynamic cultural hub.

…stroll through Frankfurt’s Römerberg…

Photo: Sina Ettmer Photography/Shutterstock

In the 16th century, Frankfurt’s Old Town — Römerberg — was regarded as one of the most beautiful places in the Holy Roman Empire, marked by Gothic and Baroque architecture and the grandiose Imperial Hall, festooned with paintings of all 52 Roman emperors. Today, it’s among the most architecturally striking districts in Germany, home to the Fountain of Justice and buildings meticulously designed to mimic their 15th- and 16th-century origins. A picturesque place for a stroll, Römerberg also hosts popular annual events like the holiday market — which technically stretches across the city’s whole historic center.

…and explore unexpected antiquities in Rome.

Photo: beersonic/Shutterstock

Rome has more than its fair share of world-famous architecture, but one structure that flies comparatively under the radar is the Pyramid of Cestius. After the Roman Empire conquered Egypt in 31 BC, tombs in Rome began to borrow inspiration from those in Egypt. Gaius Cestius, a wealthy Roman magistrate, opted to erect a pyramid made mostly of concrete and marble as his tomb. The only surviving Egyptian-style pyramid in Rome, it rises 120 feet tall, spans 97 feet on each side, and is incorporated into the city walls constructed around it. The interior is accessible to visitors on the third and fourth Saturdays and Sundays of each month, with tours conducted in Italian.

FASHION & FESTIVITIESShop and sip at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan…

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Italy’s oldest active shopping arcade, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II has been a world-class destination since its completion in 1877. It’s housed within a four-story arcade in the center of town, right next to the Duomo di Milano, and is laid out in a giant cross shape, stretching nearly 650 feet in its longest direction and rising about 155 feet to its majestic glass-domed roof. Initially created as a covered passage between the Duomo and the Teatro alla Scala, it quickly filled in with upscale retailers and restaurants. Its pioneering steel-and-glass architecture is said to have influenced the construction of Paris’s Eiffel Tower.

Nowadays, beneath the dome, shoppers can find the highest fashions, like Prada, Gucci, and Bottega Veneta, along with the historic Libreria Bocca bookstore (open since 1930) and Milanese restaurants like Savini Restaurant and Camparino, an aperitivo bar established in 1915. In winter, the Galleria’s glass dome sparkles with holiday lights, while window displays and café terraces fill with Milanese shoppers escaping the cold.

…and visit one of Europe’s oldest holiday markets in Munich.

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Every December, Munich’s Old Town transforms into a beloved holiday destination, drawing countless merrymakers to one of Europe’s oldest holiday markets. Christkindlmarkt brings thousands of twinkling lights to the city’s historic Marienplatz square, complemented by the sound of carols echoing from the glockenspiel at the nearby New Town Hall.

You can easily spend a whole afternoon at the market, browsing more than 100 wooden stalls selling handcrafted ornaments, nutcrackers, and toys, as well as sampling seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts, gingerbread hearts, and warm pretzels. The scent of cinnamon and pine fills the air, while artisans demonstrate time-honored crafts that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage. Pro tip: For a panoramic view of the festivities, climb to the balcony of the New Town Hall overlooking the market, or wander toward nearby Rindermarkt for the charming Nativity Market.

CULINARY & NIGHTLIFEEat your way through Testaccio Market in Rome…

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Mere mention of Rome conjures images of the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Vatican City — all requisite destinations with well-earned prominence. But right up there with the architecture, the Eternal City is also one of Italy’s foremost food destinations. Among the sea of pasticcerias (pastry shops) and rosticcerias (delis), Testaccio Market — in the city’s food-filled Testaccio neighborhood — is like an edible theme park.

Inside, hungry visitors will find more than 100 stalls organized by type of food, like produce, meat, cheese, seafood, and ready-to-eat snacks. Some popular stops include Mordi e Vai for crispy tripe panini, Casa Manco for zucchini blossom pizza, and Spiros for moussaka and couscous. Visiting in winter means more space to enjoy Rome’s famous landmarks, including this one, and a chance to see the Eternal City at its most relaxed.

…and dance the night away in Berlin.

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By night, the energy in Berlin reaches a new crescendo, with hundreds of clubs pulsing until the wee hours — and some that stay open for 24 hours on weekends. One such club is Berghain, a legendary techno temple that contains three main dance floors and enough space for 1,500 club-goers, though it’s notoriously tricky to get past the bouncers. To help your odds, it’s advised to come alone or with a small group and dress in all black to match the vibe inside. If that’s not your speed, or you don’t make it in, no problem — there’s always a cocktail bar, late-night beer garden, jazz club, or other evening venue nearby in Berlin.

All this and more lies within reach of a flight from the US on Lufthansa. What type of traveler will you be on your next Eurotrip?

Northern Lights and Nordic Hygge: 8 Great Introductions to Winter in Scandinavia

From Nordic skies splashed with the northern lights to warmly lit lanes, carousels, and floating saunas, Scandinavia is a real-life fantasyland — especially in winter. The northern European subregion — home to the cityscapes and nature escapes of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway — is a place of otherworldly history and heritage, where glacier-carved fjords meet Viking lore and walkable streets weave by museums, opera houses, and time-honored restaurants.

Each Scandinavian city offers its own special kind of winter magic, and Lufthansa takes you there, with easy access from the US to vibrant capitals like Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Oslo — plus all their nearby wonders, including quiet corners of the Arctic where shimmering ribbons of green and violet dance overhead during the aurora borealis, one of Earth’s most unforgettable shows. Here’s a taste of what awaits when you touch down in Scandinavia.

Fly to Copenhagen……and enter a world of fairytale magic.

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One of Copenhagen’s defining attractions is a theme park — one of the world’s oldest, founded in 1843 — so fantastical that it inspired the likes of Hans Christian Andersen. Located in the heart of the city next to Copenhagen Central Station, Tivoli Gardens is a place that transcends the concept of a theme park, where rides share space with pastoral gardens, roving peacocks, musical performances, seasonal celebrations, and Nordic cuisine. The park is full of rides, spanning from the childlike wonder of the Classic Carousel to the adrenaline-pumping thrills of The Demon rollercoaster.

Tivoli also has live music daily, colorful lights at night, and themed decor and events for holidays. To see it at its glowiest, come in winter when the park becomes a veritable wonderland with activities like ice skating and holiday-themed displays. Warm up with mulled wine and traditional Danish treats from festive market stalls as you wander the grounds. If you’re there all day, tuck into one of the park’s many restaurants, like Figaro seafood bistro and Tivoli Food Hall, situated in a building designed by the same architects behind the Louvre in Paris.

Later, see how Copenhagen’s love of the holiday season unfolds outside the park gates, with seasonal markets in nearby Nyhavn and City Hall Square continuing the cheer.

Fly to Stockholm……and get lost in Old Town…

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Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town, dates back to the 13th century. Today, it’s among the most popular destinations in Scandinavia, marked by winding cobblestone streets, islets, bustling meeting squares, and townhouses as colorful as an artist’s palette — many built in the 16th and 17th centuries. Originally Stockholm’s city center, Gamla Stan now teems with charming cafes, galleries, restaurants, and educational attractions like the Nobel Prize Museum. This is also where the changing of the guards takes place daily outside of the Royal Palace.

For a bit of edible history while you’re there, sample smoked goose pâté and Swedish veal tartare at Den Gyldene Freden, the city’s oldest restaurant, opened in 1722. And for a warming taste of winter, look to cozy cafes in the surrounding streets pouring steaming cups of hot chocolate, or try to track down julmust, a Swedish soft drink that’s mostly enjoyed around the holidays for an authentic taste of the holiday season.

…before traveling back in time.

Photo: Igor Grochev/Shutterstock

Located on an island to the east of Gamla Stan is Skansen, the oldest open-air museum in the world. Founded in 1891, it’s a collection of historical buildings designed to transport travelers to bygone times. Swedish living history is on full display as people clad in traditional garb depict folk culture and traditional crafts, like blacksmithing and weaving, in equally traditional buildings. The complex also contains the Baltic Sea Science Center, spaces for music and dance performances, and a zoo filled with animals like moose, seals, and bears.

Come winter, Skansen turns into a scene from a Swedish holiday card, complete with a historic market, carols, activities like candle-making, and stalls selling handicrafts and homemade sweets. Be sure to partake in the Swedish tradition of fika, a social coffee break that’s meant to provide a moment of pause and reflection, at one of Skansen’s cafes. It’s the perfect way to recharge before continuing your exploration — especially with snow crunching underfoot and candles flickering in the windows of the old wooden houses.

Fly to Oslo……and set sail with a floating sauna…

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Saunas, with all their warmth and wellness, are a core part of hygge, a Danish and Norwegian concept that embodies the feelings of coziness and contentment. And in Oslo, spa-seekers can find rejuvenation in the middle of a fjord. Floating saunas — operated year-round by KOK but particularly memorable in winter when the fjord is fringed with ice — take guests out into the Oslo Fjord, where they can jump into the cold, pristine water and then warm up in the hot sauna. Lined with windows, the wooden structures provide front-row views of the skyline, while a crackling woodstove makes you feel like you’re cozied up in a forest cottage.

There are room-temp changing rooms aboard, offering a reprieve from the hot sauna and cold ocean waters. Each floating sauna can accommodate 10 guests, and they’re bookable for single tickets (or a buyout) for two hours.

…then go chase the northern lights.

Photo: YueStock/Shutterstock

Oslo isn’t just Norway’s capital. It’s also a gateway to the Arctic Circle, where the northern lights are known to dance across the winter sky. From here, travelers can carry on to destinations like Tromsø, Alta, or the Lofoten Islands — all prime viewing spots for the aurora borealis between September and March.

Once there, you can chase the lights by snowmobile, dogsled, or from the warmth of a glass-roofed cabin. Many guided tours depart in the evening, tracking weather patterns to find the clearest skies, often rewarding travelers with streaks of green and violet rippling over snow-covered landscapes. Beyond the aurora, winter activities like reindeer sleigh rides, Sami cultural experiences, and Arctic fjord cruises make the journey north unforgettable.

Fly to Gothenburg……and eat your way through “fish church.”

Photo: Paul2015/Shutterstock

Fresh fish and seafood are foundational facets of the Scandinavian diet, and in Sweden’s second-largest city of Gothenburg, one hallowed fish market reigns supreme. Feskekörka, which translates to “fish church,” has been a cultural cornerstone since 1874. Folks flock from near and far to get their fill of fish and shellfish — everything from haddock and herring to oysters and prawns — plumbed from local waters.

During winter, the scent of grilled fish mingles with sea air and the glow of candles from nearby restaurants, where locals warm up with seafood chowders. The market recently reopened in 2024 after a four-year closure for renovations. It also includes restaurants, bars, and live music on an outdoor stage — all perfect settings for locals and travelers to mingle, share tables piled with seafood, and serve as living proof that food here is as much about community as it is cuisine.

Fly to Bergen……and enter the “heart of the fjords.”

Photo: Thomas Roell/Shutterstock

Norway’s second-largest city is known as the “heart of the fjords,” a bucolic coastal community flanked by homes that ascend the adjacent Mount Fløyen. You can make your own journey up the slope via the Fløibanen funicular. History is well-preserved here — to access it, spend some time at Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage-recognized wharf encompassing more than 60 wooden buildings as colorful as a box of crayons. This is also a launching point for day trips to nearby scenic landmarks like Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord, where winter brings a calm beauty — still waters reflect snowy peaks and frozen waterfalls, all of which is accessible via seasonal cruises and scenic train rides.

For some 1,000 years, people sailed to Bryggen to trade goods like dried cod, tallow, and furs. Today, the community is rich in art, textiles, pottery, and ceramics, found in galleries, boutiques, and cafes aplenty. For a meal to remember, eat at Bryggeloftet & Stuene, the oldest restaurant in town, and enjoy seasonal Nordic delicacies like steamed halibut, grilled reindeer filet, and pavlova with cloudberries.

From twinkling city streets to the silent glow of the northern lights, Scandinavia is waiting this winter. Fly with Lufthansa and make every moment part of the journey.

2026’s Most Surprising Travel Trend? Sumo.

According to a recent Expedia trend report, sumo, a sport often associated with ancient rituals and pure strength, is experiencing an upswing in interest from travelers around the world. It seems that after years of declining interest (and scandal-induced setbacks), Japan’s national sport has bounced back to again fascinate the world. But why now?

At sumo culture’s core is “Grand Sumo,” the official professional tournaments known as honbasho, which are the only events that count toward wrestler rankings. Since 1958, there have been six honbasho each year. Each lasts for 15 days, with three in Tokyo and one each in Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. It’s run by the Japan Sumo Association (JSA), the governing body that regulates matches and rankings. During the tournaments, top-tier wrestlers called makuuchi compete every day, while more junior wrestlers, called jonokuchi, wrestle only a few times.

The clearest proof of sumo’s recent rise in popularity comes from attendance numbers at 2024’s honbasho. All 90 tournament days completely sold out in 2024, marking the first time that’s happened in three decades. The Japan Sumo Association reported record revenue in 2024 and frustrated fans are often complaining online about inflated prices and tournaments that sell out in minutes.

Sumo has always been popular in Japan, but the international interest is fairly new. In some ways, it’s similar to martial arts and wresting in the US, with ongoing storylines. In 2025, a new yokozuna (Grand Champion) was crowned, creating opportunities for rivalries and challengers. It’s not as scripted or dramatized as US wrestling, but still gives fans an opportunity to connect with and follow their favorite athletes.

 

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In Japan, foreign visitation is booming. In 2025, visits have exceeded 3 million per month, making every month of 2025 busier than its 2024 equivalent. As tourism grows, visitors may be seeking uniquely Japanese experiences, and sumo fits that niche.

2025 marks the first time in 30 years that a has happened outside of Japan, taking place in October 2025 in London. Just a few years earlier, in 2022, the Sumo Association also launched an English-language YouTube channel (Sumo Prime Time), which now has nearly 100,000 followers. And in 2023, Netflix released Sanctuary: an eight-episode drama about the world of professional sumo, giving Western audiences an inside look at the sport.

Looking forward, there’s no sign that the interest in sumo will slow. According to the recent Expedia Unpack ’26 Travel Trends report, 57 percent of travelers say they’re likely to attend a local sporting event while on vacation, with that number rising to 68 percent for Gen-Z and millennial travelers. In the same study, 72 percent of travelers say they’re prioritizing experiences that allow for cultural connections instead of just visiting landmarks, and 48 percent said unique cultural experiences are one of their top three travel motivators.

The history of sumo in Japan

A sumo athlete in Japan, circa 1905. Photo: Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division/Public Domain

Sumo is Japan’s oldest organized sport and its national sport, with a history more than a thousand years old. According to the Kojiki chronicle, from 712 CE, sumo started with a wrestling bout between the gods Takemikazuchi and Takeminakata to determine who would control the Japanese islands. Early competitions were held to entertain the gods and ensure good harvests, and while the goals have changed, you can still see evidence of that in modern-day salt purification and ring-blessing rituals before matches. By the eighth century, sumo was part of imperial court ceremonies, and in Japan’s medieval era, samurai used sumo as combat training.

The modern-day version of sumo, or at least something close to it, began during Japan’s Edo period (1603–1868), when professional wrestlers performed in public matches. During this time, the sport began to develop standardized rules and ranking systems, and Tokyo became the center of sumo activity. After Japan ended its system of feudal rule in 1868, sumo continued to grow, with the Japan Sumo Association formalized in 1925 and the six-tournament format established in 1958.

Modern-day sumo athletes training in a stable in Japan. Photo: boybehindacamera/Shutterstock

In the late twentieth century, foreign-born champions began to enter the sport, opening the fan base beyond Japan. However, the sport faced some serious controversies, many of which seemed to run against sumo’s reputation for discipline and tradition. In 2007, a trainee named Takashi Saito was fatally beaten during “disciplinary training” at his Tokitsukaze stable (sumo training facility), and his stablemaster was later convicted and sentenced to jail. In 2010, a match-fixing scandal rocked the sumo world, when a series of text messages in which dozens of wrestlers agreed to throw bouts became public. The JSA punished 20 wrestlers and cancelled the tournament for the first time ever in 2011.

The sport has also suffered from accusations of gender exclusion, as women are still banned from entering or touching the dohyō (sumo ring). As recently as 2018, female medics that entered a ring in an attempt to aid a collapsed person were told to leave. The JSA later apologized, but still hasn’t changed the rule.

However, with sumo quickly becoming popular on the international stage, and the country anxious to capitalize on its many international travelers, it doesn’t take a giant stretch of the imagination to think that the sport may change and adapt more in the coming few years than it has in the last 200 years.

How to attend a sumo match as an international visitor

Photo: J. Henning Buchholz/Shutterstock

Sumo is still one of the most uniquely Japanese activities available to visitors, and it’s fairly accessible, even if you don’t speak Japanese. Tickets to official honbasho events are available on the JSA website, or through official sites like Ticket Oosumo. Prices vary by seat, with the most affordable arena seats in upper levels usually costing around 3,800 to 5,000 yen, or about $25–$30. Seats closer to the ring, where you sit on cushions and have a better view, can be closer to 10,000 to 20,000 yen, or around $65–$130. Sitting close to the ring may be a better choice for non-Japanese speakers, as you’ll need to rely more on watching the match, rather than listening to a narrator. However, English pamphlets and digital guides are sometimes available for purchase.

 

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Given sumo’s popularity, you’ll want to look for matches as soon as you know your travel dates, or even schedule your trip to Japan around a match. However, if you can’t attend a match in the official six tournaments, you may be able to find tickets to a jungyō (travel) event. They’re more casual, often without assigned seats, and you can sometimes even meet the wrestlers after the matches. They’re hosted at community centers and shrines, and can take place throughout the country. Travel matches usually happen either before Tokyo’s big May tournament, or in October and November. The best way to find jungyō events is to keep an eye on city tourism board event calendars, checking multiple ticket-selling websites, or following sumo accounts on social media, like @WCsumo and @SumoKyokai (don’t forget to click “see translation” if you don’t speak Japanese.)

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Inside Omni PGA Frisco: Championship Golf With Texas-Sized Hospitality

North of Dallas, in the fast-growing city of Frisco (AKA “Sports City USA”), the Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa anchors a 660-acre campus that the PGA of America now calls home. Two tournament-caliber courses — Fields Ranch East by Gil Hanse and Fields Ranch West by Beau Welling — spread through Blackland prairie and along Panther Creek, alternating between wide corridors and exacting green complexes. For those looking for something more casual, the property leans into the lighter side of golf, too, with two experiences: The Swing, a lighted 10-hole short course, and The Dance Floor, a sprawling two-acre putting course.

Fields Ranch East hosted the 2023 KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship, and the venue is set to stage the 2027 PGA Championship. The latter marks a men’s major golf returning to North Texas for the first time in nearly six decades.

Photo: Omni PGA Frisco Resort and Spa

Travelers come for more than a couple rounds. The 451-room resort has four pools, a full-service spa, and 13 restaurants. It’s also easy to get to: DFW International Airport sits is about a 35- to 40-minute drive away.

Beyond the courses and resort, Omni PGA Frisco anchors the greater PGA Frisco headquarters, a sprawling administrative and events campus for the PGA of America’s operations. Nearby, the Monument Realty PGA District is the broad entertainment area of the property that’s made up of a walkable collection of restaurants, retail, performance venues, driving bays, and social gathering spots.

I caught up with Paul Earnest, director of golf and operations at Omni PGA Frisco, to learn more about what makes the resort such a draw for people who travel for golf.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Matador Network: How do the design philosophies at the two-course complement and contrast?

Paul Earnest: I’ve heard both architects, Gil Hanse and Beau Welling, refer to them as cousins. Certainly, they have some similar characteristics like the generosity off of the tee boxes and the shaping of the bunkers, but they are definitely not in the same family. The East course gets much tighter the closer that you get to the hole, whereas the West course offers continued wide open spaces but challenging putting opportunities. On the West, you can roll the ball many times from long distances.

The second hole on the East course. Photo: Gary Kellner/PGA of America

What are some of the routing decisions that you hope will become signature moments?

Both courses offer driveable par 4s, which is a common Championship feature that helps bring both risk/reward and general excitement, whether in a Championship or just playing with your friends and colleagues. Overall, there is a lot of room to play from, meaning that you can go find it and play it again, rather than dense forests or large bodies of water where penalties must be incurred. So, this always brings an element of hope for the golfer.

The Swing and Dance Floor add playful, accessible formats. How do you view their role in the overall playing menu for guests?

The Swing and Dance Floor were essential to the overall offering. These two areas may be the best around in bringing people to the game and growing the sport of golf. To see families and friends across the Dance Floor enjoying the game and each other is a magical scene at Fields Ranch. The Swing really removes all intimidation while providing a realistic look at what to expect on the Championship-level courses.

Photo: Omni PGA Frisco Resort and Spa

How did climate influence bunker placements, green complexes, or play design from day one?

This question is certainly best answered by the architects themselves; however, both Gil Hanse and Beau Welling were pleasantly surprised at the topography provided across this 660-acre farmland to utilize. While not so much the direction of the wind, both realized that wind would play a significant role in the play in Frisco, Texas.

For a luxury traveler who arrives wanting more than just golf, how does OMNI make the transition seamless from the course and beyond?

Photo: Omni PGA Frisco Resort and Spa

Many resorts boast about the service details and staff culture as important traits of their resort. At OMNI PGA Frisco, the team works tirelessly to make real connections and deliver personal experiences to help capture the highlight moments of our guests respective stays. The OMNI supports a culture of personalized service and combined with North Texas hospitality, our guests often tell us the impressions and moments that we help them capture.

On the resort side, which dining, spa, or amenity moments are deliberately tied to the golf?

The entirety of the resort speaks to the golf theme. The amenity center in each room is created to resemble a locker space as a prime example. On the food and beverage side, two of our restaurants in the PGA District offer hitting bays to enjoy while you eat.

Are there any “first rounds,” architectural anecdotes, or surprise vistas on course you hope guests talk about long after their stay?

Photo: Omni PGA Frisco Resort and Spa

For the East course, which is primarily walking only, we want the guests to experience the natural beauty of the rolling terrain that not long ago was a working cattle ranch. We want the interactions with a caddie to bring them a feature that many have not previously enjoyed. For the West course, there are some uniquely challenging putting greens that often capture people’s imagination and what is possible in the short game.

How do the championships and partnerships influence daily operations, event ambitions, and the draw for more than just playing?

We want to deliver an experience that many tour players get to have as a part of their routine. One example of this is the selection of premium golf balls that you can choose for your warm-up. We support Callaway, TaylorMade, and Titleist golf balls on demand for your warm-up.

Similar to our practice ball offerings, we offer the latest clubs from each of our primary manufacturers. So, if you want to try the latest models or simply don’t want to hassle with your clubs, we are ready to deliver a first-class preferential experience.

Our practice area is equipped with TopTracer technology. Our golfers can warm up and dial in their distances and even let their experiences suggest what tees they should be playing from on their round.

Photo: Omni PGA Frisco Resort and Spa

What sustainability or ecological practices are embedded that reflect your location in Texas?

Sustainability and ecological responsibility were important values since the inception of the property. On Gil Hanse East course, approximately 60 acres were left completely undisturbed. The areas of the course that were disturbed were intentionally reclaimed with many natural and native grass types. The golf property has approximately 8,000 irrigation heads giving the team full control of water management depending on grass and soil types all while using reclaimed effluent water [treated and purified waste water] from the City of Frisco that would otherwise go directly into creeks, streams, and lakes. Ongoing, the many wetland areas that remain in the flood plain are restored and virtually untouched to provide natural habitats for the wildlife that remains on the course. Finally, the architectural use of the land is an ode to the cattle ranch from years previous. It is virtually impossible to play either course without feeling the rolling footprint of the pastures that spread across this acreage.

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Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru: Your Journey to India Starts Here

Travel possibilities are limitless in the world’s most populous country. Find your way to vibrant markets, lush jungles, historic palaces, and rock-carved caves when you fly to India with Lufthansa. Here are some of our top picks, conveniently located in or just outside some of India’s most dynamic and accessible hubs.

DelhiDive into history at the Red Fort.

Photo: Aniruddha/Shutterstock

In the heart of Old Delhi, a once-walled city founded in 1648, the Red Fort rises like a monolith. Made of red sandstone, the luminous citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage site completed the same year that Old Delhi was established — and the same year that the Taj Mahal, a mausoleum built for the wife of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, was built.

Shah Jahan also commissioned the construction of the Red Fort, which served as a Mughal imperial residence for two centuries before becoming a fortress. Today, it stands as a resolute marvel of Mughal architecture. Guests are welcome to visit the gardens, Mughal monuments, numerous pavilions, halls, barracks, and museums like the Red Fort Centre. The fort’s sprawling courtyards are particularly pleasant to explore in the winter months, when Delhi’s usually intense heat gives way to crisp, sunny days.

Shop your way through Chandni Chowk.

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Also in Old Delhi, Chandni Chowk is one of India’s most cacophonous street markets. Established shortly after the Red Fort, it was designed to be an ornate, tree-lined central square for Shah Jahan’s new capital and initially stretched for 1,520 yards. The emperor’s daughter, Princess Jahanara Begum, created the market as a destination for silver merchants.

Now the dizzying maze of streets and alleyways is a destination for travelers. The scent of spices wafts in the air from Khari Baoli (the largest wholesale spice market in Asia) as vendors sell everything from kulfi (Indian ice cream) and chaat (fried dough snacks) to fabrics, textiles, jewelry, beads, books, bridal wear, and much more. Keep an eye out for seasonal treats like gajar ka halwa (a warm carrot dessert) during a winter visit to the market.

Set sail at Swaminarayan Akshardham.

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Among the largest Hindu temples on Earth, Swaminarayan Akshardham was built in 2005 as an immersive attraction. Flanking the mighty sandstone temple, which rises more than 140 feet and spans more than 300 feet in both width and length, are three large halls with exhibits that function more like rides.

These include Sahajanand Darshan, a walk-through attraction with animatronics and videos celebrating love, fearlessness, and humility; Neelkanth Darshan, a big-screen film showcasing the breadth and natural beauty of India; and Sanskruti Darshan, a boat ride through thousands of years of Indian history. Don’t miss the nightly water shows, held in the central pool at the Arena, set to video projections and laser lights.

MumbaiExplore the caves at Elephanta Island.

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Set in the Sea of Oman, near India’s largest city of Mumbai, Elephanta Island stands as a time-honored monument to the Hindu god Shiva. Amid architectural remnants dating as far back as the second century BC, the Elephanta Caves were carved into rock as temples — including the majestic Cave 1, lined with columns and courtyards and fronted by a massive sculpture, Sadashiva, depicting Shiva’s role as Creator, Preserver, and Destroyer.

The caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases a labyrinthine patchwork of rock-cut architectural innovation. The island is accessible via ferries that leave every half hour from the Gateway of India, a landmark arch in Mumbai, and there’s a museum on the island with information on the history of the caves. Pro tip: Cooler winter seas also mean calmer, more enjoyable ferry crossings to the island — perfect for a half-day escape from Mumbai’s bustle.

Swap crowds for jungles at Sanjay Ghandi National Park.

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In a city of 22 million, a reprieve in nature can be rejuvenating. Sanjay Ghandi National Park, located on the north side of the city, is an oasis of flora and fauna, providing sanctuary for animals like leopards, striped hyenas, crocodiles, monkeys, bats, and cobras. For nature connoisseurs, the 34-squire-mile park — among the largest parks within city limits — presents ample opportunities for exploration, including hiking the Shilonda trail, embarking on a boat ride on Vihar Lake, or exploring the butterfly garden.

Don’t miss the Kanheri Caves, a network of 109 Buddhist rock-cut chambers dating to the first century BC. Trekking in the jungles at the national park requires a permit, or you can go on a guided safari with the Bombay Natural History Society. Plan your visit during winter for milder temperatures and clearer air that make jungle treks and safaris more comfortable.

BengaluruExplore royal lore at Bangalore Palace.

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Capital of the state of Karnataka and the epicenter of India’s tech industry, Bengaluru hosts myriad sites and attractions that speak to the city’s pioneering past. One great example is Bangalore Palace, a longtime home for the royal Wadiyar family built in 1887. One of the family members still lives in a private wing of the palace, but sections have been open to the public since 2005.

Situated on 472 sprawling acres, the 35-room property was constructed under the British Empire and uniquely designed to replicate Windsor Palace’s architecture. You can tour the museum and the ballroom as well as the gardens outside. Interestingly, there’s even an amusement and water park, Fun World, located on the palace grounds.

Stop and smell the flowers at K.R. Market.

Photo: Snehit Photo/Shutterstock

One of Asia’s largest flower markets and Bengaluru’s oldest centers of commerce, K.R. Market — otherwise known as City Market — is another must-visit street market in India. Open since 1928, the outdoor-indoor complex is particularly renowned for its selection of flowers, with vendors lining up before dawn to sell a fragrant kaleidoscope of roses, jasmine, orchids, and more. That said, there’s also a seemingly endless array of shops and stalls where both personal and wholesale shoppers can stock up on everything from produce and spices to kitchen utensils and tools. Arrive early in the morning to experience the market at its most bustling — and to ensure the flowers aren’t sold out yet.

With so much to see, do, smell, taste, and touch across India, Lufthansa is your literal boarding pass for a universe of sensory experiences. Book now to start your journey.

Scotch Meets Island Time in The Glenlivet’s New Travel-Inspired Series

The Glenlivet, one of Scotland’s most recognized single malt producers, recently launched a new series of whiskies inspired by travels far beyond the distillery’s Speyside roots. Titled Beyond Speyside, the collection sets out to explore the intersection of place, flavor, and culture. The first release is focused on a rum-loving nation that, from what I’ve seen on my own visits, seems to love Scotch nearly as much: Jamaica.

The inaugural release, The Glenlivet 12 Year Old Jamaica Edition, is a 12-year-old whisky that spends time in casks that previously held Jamaican rum before being bottled. According to Glenlivet, this release is less about novelty and more about reflecting a different lens on Scotch through the prism of another place. The choice of Jamaica, and specifically Treasure Beach on the island’s south coast, was deliberate.

The Beyond Speyside series is a chance to explore new terroir-inspired cask finishes, The Glenlivet brand director Maritza Noriega says over email, but also “to enrich our whisky and our drinkers lives by exploring new cultures.”

Jamaica was a starting point in part because of the “experience to be discovered when you step off the beaten path,” Noriega continues. “The Glenlivet Jamaica Edition is specifically inspired by Treasure Beach on Jamaica’s enchanting south coast. As travelers seek to push the boundaries of their experience beyond the typical travel guides and take an intentional detour, places like Treasure Beach are gaining visibility.”

To reflect that travel-first ethos in more than just the rum cask finish, The Glenlivet collaborated with Jamaican-Scottish designer Nicholas Daley, who styled the launch campaign with garments that merge tartan and reggae-era silhouettes. Actor Thomas Doherty appears in the campaign, matched with former Miss Universe Jamaica Miqueal-Symone Williams as they sidestep tourist clichés and instead play dominoes and go to a beach party.

“Scottish heart meets Jamaican soul,” as the campaign video puts it.

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The whisky itself keeps The Glenlivet’s easy drinking nature and folds in tropical notes from its rum-cask secondary maturation that brighten the whisky.

This is the first in a recurring series. Future editions will draw on other destinations, but Noriega emphasizes that it won’t be about postcard imagery. “The goal isn’t to chase vacation visuals, but to capture the mindset of exploration,” Noriega says. “We want to inspire people to try something new, taste something unexpected, and see the world through a different lens.”

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