Matador Network's Blog, page 103
October 30, 2024
Matador Creators Tool Spotlight: MintPass, the New App Where You Can Earn Travel Awards
The Matador Creators team wants to set travel creators up for success. We want to support you throughout your career and share resources that can guide your creation process long-term and help you find new ways to monetize your content. Here, we chat with Sam Simmons, the founder of MintPass, a neat new mobile app launched in August 2024.
The platform’s core concept revolves around “digital souvenirs.” As users share different aspects of their trips, from flights and hotel stays to experiences, they earn digital tokens that represent their adventures. These tokens, akin to digital badges of honor, not only serve as a personal record of travel history but also contribute to the platform’s growing repository of travel recommendations.
MintPass also wants to simplify the travel planning process by integrating booking tools directly into the platform. Users can discover and book accommodations, flights, and experiences based on the recommendations of other travelers.
But, one of the most intriguing aspects of MintPass for us is its creator program, which is currently in beta. By sharing their travel experiences and insights on the platform, creators can earn points that can be redeemed for a range of rewards, including discounts on future trips and exclusive merchandise. This incentivized approach is hoped to encourage creators to produce high-quality content and help foster a dynamic and engaged community.
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
Matador: Tell us about how creators benefit from MintPass.Sam Simmons: 84 percent of travel booking decisions are made based on recommendations from people we trust, and we’ve found that for many of us, that includes the travel creators we follow. MintPass provides a way for creators to document their lived experiences more easily, share them with their community and our traveler network as recommendations, and earn rewards.
If we consider an Instagram or TikTok feed to be the highlight reel window shopping experience, MintPass is the experiential deep dive atop the link in the bio. We’re building a product for all the text messages, spreadsheets, and notes that contain lists of favorite travel hot spots built for sharing, discovery, booking, and rewards. MintPass fully captures the depth and diversity of past travel experiences, allowing creators to own their recommendation lists while extending reach to new audiences seeking travel inspiration from trusted resources.
Photo: MintPass
Can users monetize?While we aren’t a direct monetization tool, MintPass offers booking at the point of recommendation, allowing friends, family, and followers to book through our travel partners when they receive a recommendation via the platform. Soon after our public launch, we will provide reward points for various platform engagements, including bookings generated from a recommendation. These points can be redeemed for free travel, merchandise, apparel, giveaways, and other benefits, but unlike traditional loyalty points, they can be sold, traded, or gifted to other travelers.
What made you want to partner with travel creators specifically?We’ve found that creators are often the most helpful to others in their travel planning inspiration due to their extensive experience. However, it’s a challenge to use existing means to adequately document, share, and generate value from one’s recommendations. We are a solution for creators and other tastemakers to better convey their extensive travel experience to current and new audiences while being recognized in our network and rewarded for the adventures they inspire.
Are specific creators a better fit?Across all channels, social media can often be restrictive for creating travel content of substance, limited to captions and story highlights for documenting recommendations. In contrast, MintPass is designed from the ground up to be a product for discovery and booking travel experiences from verified word-of-mouth suggestions. Thus, our focus is on providing a platform for all types of travel creators who seek to provide informational planning content to audiences. These are those who specialize in providing tangible advice designed to educate and activate their communities, often via itinerary-based recommendations.
How can we try out MintPass?MintPass’ creator program is launching soon, and we’re pleased to invite Matador Network community members to our exclusive invite-only launch by getting the app today. Those interested can download on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, start logging trips, and build their tastemaker scores before our public launch. Join our Discord to connect with fellow creators, travelers, and the MintPass community. 
The US Airports Where You’ll Waste the Most Time on Delays and Plane Taxiing
With the announcement that airlines are now required to refund travelers in full if a flight is delayed or canceled, we can relax a little about fighting for compensation, but why not try to avoid the hassle completely? Sitting waiting in a lounge or on the tarmac is mind-numbingly dull, not to mention frustrating, and at some airports, this is happening a little too often for anyone’s liking — here’s looking at you, LaGuardia. A recent study by Upgraded Points highlights which US airports have the most significant wait times, from extended flight delays to lengthy taxi-out times. And although it’s not always easy to avoid airports with a bad reputation, at least we know to grab another book on the way out the door.
The study analyzed data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics and Google Flights to examine 50 major US airports and pinpoint those that consistently disrupt smooth travel.
Photo: Upgraded Points
But let’s start with the good news. Some airports are leading the charge with their efficiency. Kahului Airport in Maui has minimal delays, with an average departure delay of just 5.7 minutes and a taxi-out time of 10.5 minutes (total average wasted time of only 16.2 minutes.) Other airports with notably short wait times include Norman Y. Mineta San José International Airport, William P. Hobby Airport, Sacramento International Airport, and one of the world’s busiest airports, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta.
On the other end of the scale are those that consistently plague travelers with travel disruptions. Miami International Airport takes the unfortunate title of the biggest time suck, with an average departure delay of 24.6 minutes and a taxi-out time of 22.6 minutes, totaling nearly an hour of wasted dead time.
San Francisco International Airport, an important hub for domestic and international flights, also experiences significant delays. There is an average wait for boarding of 20.5 minutes and a horrible 20.8 minutes on the tarmac.
Following closely behind is the well-known culprit, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. Passengers flying out of DFW can expect to waste an average of nearly 40 minutes. Philadelphia International Airport also makes the bad list, with extended taxi-out times being a particular issue.
However, the medal for the longest taxi-out time goes to LaGuardia. Although the average delay at the NYC airport is only slightly above the national average, at 13.5 minutes, due to issues with limited runway space, you can expect a wait for up to 23 minutes in your cramped economy seat before take off.
Starting in January, US Travelers Will Need to Apply for Permission to Travel the UK
US travelers planning to make their way to the UK in the new year will need to apply for an ETA, i.e. an Electronic travel Authorization, prior to their departure.
Starting January 8, 2025, citizens of nearly 50 countries, including Australia, Canada, and the United States, will need to have an ETA to travel to the UK, which includes England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. The introduction of the ETA scheme is meant to strengthen security at the UK border.
Applying for an ETA is a simple process than can be done online or via the UK ETA app starting November 27, 2024. The cost of applying for an ETA is £10 (around $13), which is payable online via credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
To apply for the UK ETA, you need to have your passport handy, as well as access to your emails. During the process you’ll be required to either take a picture of your face or upload a recent picture. You may also be asked to scan your face with your device’s camera.
Travelers cannot purchase an ETA on arrival or apply for an ETA while en route to the UK. You’ll be required to provide your ETA or ETA number upon checking in for your flight to the UK and, without one, you’ll be denied boarding.
It takes around three days, sometimes more, to process an ETA application, so do not leave it to the last minute.
The UK ETA is valid for two years (or until your passport expires) and allows for unlimited entries. Remember that once granted entry in the UK by a border agent, US citizens can travel in the country for a maximum of six months.
The ETA is a similar system to the ESTA, the Electronic System for Travel Authorization, that all travelers from visa-waiver countries (except Canadians) have been needing to enter the United States since 2008. Canada has had such a system, the eTA, since 2016.
Starting in 2025, but without any set date at the time of writing, US travelers will also be required to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) to enter 30 European countries, including Italy, France, Iceland, Portugal, and more. Applying for an ETIAS will be done via the ETIAS website or mobile app and cost €7 (around $7.60). The ETIAS will be valid for three years (or until your passport expires) before needing to be renewed. ETIAS will allow for unlimited entries in the 30 countries concerned.
October 29, 2024
Passenger Sues Airline for Serving ‘dangerously Cold’ Ice Cream Sandwich
For passengers on most budget airlines, it’s considered a perk if the airline gives you a complimentary snack during your flight. But for one woman, that mid-air snack led to medical injuries — and she’s demanding that the airline pay up.
A recent lawsuit against JetBlue centers on a woman who claims she cracked a tooth on an extremely hard ice cream sandwich served during a flight. Kiara Quinonez, a New Jersey resident, alleges that the airline provided her with a “frozen solid” ice cream sandwich while flying from New York to Paris. When she tried to eat it, she fractured one of her front teeth, which required dental treatment. Quinonez is seeking an undisclosed amount from the airline, claiming it caused her “pain, suffering, and mental anguish” due to the cracked tooth and subsequent emergency dental surgery she underwent immediately after landing at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris. The legal documents have not been made public, but were obtained by People Magazine.
The lawsuit claims that JetBlue was negligent both in serving the extremely cold dessert (alleging it served food “at a temperature below what is reasonable or safe for consumption,”) and by failing to inform her that the dessert would be cold, describing it as a “dangerously cold temperature and solid state.”
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A post shared by Nightingale Ice Cream (@nightingaleicecream)
The ice cream sandwich in question was a “chomp size” strawberry shortcake ice cream sandwich manufactured by Nightengale Ice Cream Company. While most JetBlue fare classes do not include meals, they do include complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. However, for transatlantic routes such Quinonez’s flight from NYC to Paris, basic service includes a “chilled” main meal, as well as dessert and complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Guests in JetBlue’s “Mint” fare class have access to a wider range of meal and snack options. It’s not known what fare class Quinonez booked when the incident occurred.
Though it may seem a bit unusual, it’s not the first food-related lawsuit against the airline in 2024. In May, a woman filed suit against JetBlue for $1.5 million after claiming a flight attendant spilled hot tea on her during turbulence, leaving her with significant scarring and burns on most of her body. That case is still in litigation.
Threat of potential lawsuit could be one of the reasons some airlines have stopped serving select items. In August 2024, Korean Air announced it would stop serving fan-favorite ramen noodles, citing the risks caused by increasingly intense turbulence to passengers eating hot soup at their seats.
Photo: JetBlue
While it’s unclear if Quinonez’s lawsuit has any chance of success, it’s yet another bad piece of publicity for the airline in the last year. JetBlue’s public woes range from a February 2024 incident in which two JetBlue planes collided on a tarmac in Boston to engine failures in January and March to an October incident in which a JetBlue plane collided with a baggage container.
Delayed or Canceled Flight? Airlines Now Required to Refund the Price in Full Automatically
Getting a voucher, let alone a cash refund, for a significantly delayed or canceled flight is a major pain. There are tricks and tips for refunds that are even larger than the original price, but those can take time and persistence — which tend to be in short supply after having to scramble to fix spoiled travel plans. In April, the Biden Administration’s Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced new rules for easier guaranteed refunds. On October 28, the cash refunds portion of those new rules officially went into effect shortly before the holiday travel season.
The mandate now holds that cash refunds are required to be automatically processed regardless of whether or not impacted travelers go through the normal hoops for a refund. Specifically, if a flight is “canceled or significantly changed, and they do not accept the significantly changed flight, rebooking on an alternative flight, or alternative compensation,” according to CNN. Payments are required to be sent in full in seven business days if the flight was bought on a credit card and within 20 calendar days for other payment types.
Vouchers and airline credits don’t count — good news for anyone who has had to swallow the hard pill of taking an airline voucher for an airline that just burned them. Refunds for both significant delays and cancellations are only issued if the passenger doesn’t travel on the delayed flight or alternate itinerary from the airline.
The revised rules also clarify what is meant by a “significant delay”: more than three hours for departure or arrival delays on domestic flights, or six hours for international flights originating in the United States. Flights have have significant changes apply as well, where are defined as “departures or arrivals from a different airport; increases in the number of connections; instances where passengers are downgraded to a lower class of service; or connections at different airports or flights on different planes that are less accessible or accommodating to a person with a disability.”
Those aren’t the only refunds people on missed flights are now entitled to. Bag fees are refundable for luggage not delivered within 12 hours for domestic flights or 15 to 30 hours on international flights. WiFi that doesn’t work, as well as other inflight entertainment, needs to be refunded as well if it doesn’t work during the flight. In May 2025, people who were told by a medical professional not to travel for communicable diseases, or were restricted by government mandates, will be given an airline credit valid for at least five years.
This 12-Country Trip on the World’s Most Luxurious Trains Takes 59 Days
In 2024, Railbookers, an expert in planning rail vacations throughout the world, put together the dream itinerary for any train-travel enthusiasts: an 80-day trip covering 13 countries on the world’s most iconic and luxurious trains. The Around the World by Luxury Train trip, as it is known, which generated huge interest and many bookings despite its price, departed on August, 28, 2024.
In fact, the 2024 Around the World by Luxury Train itinerary was such a success that Railbookers decided to plan another one for 2025, this time a little shorter, but just as exciting.
In 2025, the Around the World by Luxury Train trip will last 59 days instead of 80, and will span 12 countries on four continents instead of the 13 covered on the 2024 itinerary. That said, the trains and destinations on the schedule are just as appealing — if not more.
“Our 2025 Around the World by Luxury Rail itinerary has been refined and tailored to maximize our guests’ time and experiences while enjoying the culture, cuisine and activities that each of these renowned destinations have to offer,” explains Railbookers President & CEO Frank Marini in a press release.
The 59-day itinerary of railbookers’ Railbookers’ Around the World by Luxury Train. Photo: Railbookers
Much like with the 2024 itinerary, the 59-day train journey, departing on September 5, 2025, will start in Vancouver, Canada, for a two-day scenic ride on Canada’s only luxury train: the Rocky Mountaineer. The next opulent train on the itinerary is no other than the iconic Royal Scotsman on which you’ll spend three nights exploring the wilds of Scotland, starting in Edinburgh, the capital, and going all the way to the Highlands. After a quick flight to the European continent, you’ll board the brand new Dolce Vita Orient Express for two nights from Rome to Venice and Portofino before traveling from Verona to Paris, and then from Paris to Istanbul on the most expensive, and the most famous train in the world: the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. After crossing Europe, you’ll travel, around India on the Maharajas Express, in South Africa with Rovos Rail, and finally around Malaysia and Singapore on the Eastern & Oriental Express. The trip will end in Singapore.
The 2025 edition of Railbookers’ Around the World by Luxury Train trip includes a total of 21 nights on board trains and 32 nights in luxury hotels. Excursions and visits along the way promise to be as fantastic as the train rides and include a private tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum in Rome, a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, a jeep safari in Ranthambore National Park, dinner and a show at the Moulin Rouge in Paris, and much more.
While a lot shorter than the 2024 itinerary, the 2025 Around the World by Luxury Train trip is more than $10,000 more expensive: starting at $124,150 per person instead of $113,599. In spite of the cost, however, before the 2025 itinerary even went on sale, there were more than 500 people on the waitlist. A sign that demand for train travel, which has been high in the past two years, is showing no sign of waning.
Where to Play, Eat, and Stay in Richmond, VA, for Arts, Culture, and Black Excellence
On the first Friday of every month in Richmond, Virginia, the art galleries on Broad Street open to the public so that everyone can celebrate the city’s creatives. That’s one example of how deep the arts run in Richmond, where you’ll also find murals painted on historic brick buildings across town and a variety of museums and monuments honoring the city’s Black culture.
The motto “Virginia is for Lovers” is evident through love and reverence that Richmond’s residents have for the city’s Black culture. Nowhere is this more evident than the Jackson Ward neighborhood, whose 2nd Street was historically known as Black Wall Street 20 years before Tulsa, Oklahoma, claimed the title. During its heyday, there were five Black banks, seven Black-owned insurance companies, and 300 thriving Black-owned businesses. At once busting with music, art, and creativity, the neighorhood was also known as the “Harlem of the South.”
Today, murals throughout the area honor Jackson Ward’s contributions to Richmond at large. Here’s where to see those works and more.
Cultural things to do in Richmond, VAMaggie L. Walker National Historic Site
Photo: Leslie Robinson
Maggie Lena Walker was a Black businesswoman and the first woman to open a bank in the US. Before starting the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank, she was a teacher, started an insurance company, and was the editor of the St. Luke Herald. Walker was born on July 15, 1864, to enslaved parents but died a prominent Southern businesswoman. Her primary residence is now a National Historic Site, with over 90 percent of the details original to she lived there.
The front parlor has two fireplaces, golden cornice boards, gilded crown molding, and chandeliers with ornate golden medallions. Walker also had a library with a wall full of books and installed an elevator in the hear of the house when she became wheelchair-bound so that she could access her upstairs bedroom. An example of Black excellence before the term was coined, Walker used her home as a way to motivate others that homeownership was attainable — over a century later, the property continues to inspire during the site’s daily tours.
Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site:600 N 2nd St, Richmond, VA 23219
Walking the Ward with Gary Flowers
Photo: Leslie Robinson
Raised in Jackson Ward, Gary Flowers is a Harvard professor and a Richmond Region Tourism-certified Ambassador Guide. His 20-stop tours tell the story of the historically Black Jackson Ward neighborhood, visiting points of interest like Maggie Walker’s home and the Bill “Bojangles” Robinson statue honoring the dancer and actor most popular for his dance scene with Shirley Temple. Throughout the tour, which starts at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, Flowers is passionate and honest in his account of Richmond’s history.
Walking the Ward with Gary Flowers: Various
Street art in downtown Richmond
Photo: Leslie Robinson
Throughout downtown Richmond and the surrounding areas, colorful murals that put a spotlight on the artistic and historic richness of the city — so much so that it seems like there’s a brick wall covered with bright colors and inspiration on every corner. My two favorite murals were the “Greetings from Richmond, VA” postcard (a digital postcard leaves a great carbon footprint) and “Together We Rise,” honoring people who’ve died at the hands of police officers.
Quirk GalleryView this post on InstagramA post shared by Quirk Gallery (@quirk_gallery)
Originally erected as the J.B. Mosby & Co. Dry Goods Store in 1916 and renovated in 2005, the Quirk Hotel is more than just a trendy place to stay in Richmond — it also has a fully functioning art gallery. The well-lit gallery off the main lobby features a permanent collection of whimsical, often craft-like artworks, as well as rotating art exhibitions. Visitors are welcome to come and peruse or even purchase a souvenir, thanks to the hotel’s boutique shop.
Quirk Hotel: 201 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220
2nd Street FestivalView this post on InstagramA post shared by 2nd Street Festival | Oct. 4-5, 2025 (@2ndstreetfest)
This annual two-day festival (typically held in early October) highlights the culture of the Jackson Ward community, once known as “the Harlem of the South.” The free, kid-friendly event provides a weekend filled with live music, artwork, and food and craft vendors, as well as an antique car show. You’ll see attendees engaging in any number of community-centric activities — from dancing in the street, to learning line dances, to reconnecting with neighbors — but mostly, it’s about enjoying positive vibes all day long.
2nd Street Festival: Jackson Ward, Richmond, VA 23220
First FridaysView this post on InstagramA post shared by RVA First Fridays (@rvafirstfridays)
The first Friday night of each month, local art galleries on Broad Street open their doors to the public for free. Some galleries have musicians performing outside, and the evening is a great way to enjoy artwork from local and national artists on a budget.
First Fridays: Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220
MySelfies
Photo: Leslie Robinson
This is a Black-owned selfie studio in the heart of downtown Richmond. I met the owner while I wandered through downtown as he helped a young boy find his grandmother in the true spirit the Richmond community. Choose from a variety of backdrops and props for your Insta moment — including sports, a neon heart, or a 1990s hip-hop magazine background — and snap a digital souvenir of your time in Richmond.
MySelfies: 12 West Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220
Where to eat and drink in Richmond, VAMama J’s KitchenView this post on InstagramA post shared by Mama J’s (@mamajsrva)
Unsuspecting and homey feel, Mama J’s Kitchen is a staple for Richmond locals, and Mama J herself is still active in the day-to-day operations. The restaurant’s fried chicken won the 2024 Richmond Times Dispatch Fried Chicken March Madness contest. I’m trying to eat better, so I ordered the baked chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens while my lunch buddy ordered the very generously portioined fried catfish. We were seated right in front of “the living room,” a memorial to Mama J’s parents that doubled down on the love in the room.
Mama J’s: 415 North 1st St, Richmond, VA 23219
Lillie PearlView this post on InstagramA post shared by Lillie Pearl (@lillie.pearl.rva)
Owned by Chef Michael Lindsey and his wife, Kimberly Love-Lindsey, this restaurant pays homage to Lindsey’s grandmothers. “Chef Mike” infuses his North Carolina roots with West African ingredients and modern cooking techniques. I ordered the crispy skin salmon in a lemon ginger sauce. It was delicious, and the atmosphere was inviting and enjoyable, with R&B music playing low in the background. I knew Lillie Pearl was my kind of restaurant when Jill Scott’s “The Way” played and a large party all sang out “grits!’ right on cue.
Lillie Pearl: 416 E. Grace St, Richmond, VA 23219
Blue HabaneroView this post on InstagramA post shared by Blue Habanero RVA (@bluehabanero_rva)
A lot of restaurants close early in Richmond, but this one stays open until 11 PM on weekends. I stopped in for a late night bite and ordered the chicharones and el pastor tacos — both were delicious. Blue Habanero also has a tequila bar that would make any aficionado happy.
Blue Habanero: 421 Strawberry St, Richmond VA 23220
92 ChickenView this post on InstagramA post shared by @9292.chicken
92 Chicken is a fast-casual spot located right across the street from the Quirk Hotel. The chain specialized in Korean-style friend chicken (that stays crisp for hours, no less). I grabbed wings and fries, and they came out perfectly without having to ask for them to be fried hard. The menu will expand to include boba tea soon, as well.
92 Chicken: 200 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220
Curry’s Southern Caribbean Cuisine and BarView this post on InstagramA post shared by Curry’s Restaurant & Bar (@rva_currys)
I stopped into this restaurant on a whim during the 2nd Street Festival. At the entrance, African masks were on display and available for sale. There’s both a Guyanese and a Jamaican chef in the kitchen, guaranteeing that both types of Caribbean food are cooked to perfection. I ordered the oxtails, cabbage, and mac and cheese — while mac and cheese from Caribbean restaurants is never my personal favorite, and this one was no exception, the oxtails and cabbage were well-seasoned and tender. Curry’s also has a full bar, and the sorrel rum punch is a perfect balance of strong, tart and sweet.
Curry’s: 119 E Leigh St, Richmond, VA 23219
Where to stay in Richmond, VAQuirk Hotel
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Quirk Hotel Richmond (@quirkhotelrva)
Quirk Hotel is conveniently located in downtown Richmond, just a few blocks from Virginia Commonwealth University. The juxtaposition of exposed brick with cheeky pale pink and gold artwork gives guests an early taste of the hotel’s attention to design detail. Even something as mundane as storage is aesthetic as well as functional — instead of having a dresser, for example, drawers are built into a bench, offering seating and storage at once. My room was spacious and well maintained, with cleaning available daily. The hotel is also eco-friendly, providing refillable water carafes and reverse osmosis water fountains on each floor.
Downstairs, the Lobby Bar restaurant offers a variety of different global gare, including spanakopita dip, grilled cauliflower, pasta dishes, and a New York strip steak dinner for two that includes a side and dessert for $85. Breakfast ranging from French toast to a bacon, egg, and cheese croissant is also available at the Lobby Bar, while the hotel’s Q Rooftop Bar opens for a 180-degree view of Richmond, creative cocktails, and quick bites at 5 PM every day.
Quirk Hotel: 201 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220
Getting to and around Richmond, VA
Photo: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock
My ride to Richmond from Surf City, North Carolina, was surprisingly quick and easy. I left around 4 PM and arrived at 8 PM. If you’re coming from farther afield or simply prefer to fly, the Richmond International Airport (RIC) hosts nine airline carriers, including budget airlines like Breeze, Spirit, and Allegiant.
Once you’re in Richmond, It’s easy to get around town. There were a variety of restaurants, art galleries, bars, and points of interest within walking distance from Quirk Hotel. The city bus also runs down Broad Street, a hub of the city’s arts and culture. I walked most of the time, but rideshares were affordable and timely, as well. However you get around Richmond, enjoy the city’s historic Italian Renaissance architecture and bright-colored murals as you go.
People Travel to Blue Zones For Insight Into Longer, Healthier Lives. But Blue Zones May Be a Lie.
I don’t want to live forever, or even exceptionally long. Nevertheless, I’ve long been fascinated by the idea of “blue zones,” or parts of the world where more residents than average live to become centenarians and supercentenarians (living past 110). I’m far from alone. The media (including Matador Network, often) has extensively covered the concept, and a small ecosystem has sprung up around learning from the lifestyles of people in these regions. Yet ongoing research shows that the whole blue zone concept is possibly one big lie, or at the very least a case of extrapolating from bad data.
The concept was popularized by Dan Buettner’s 2009 book “The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer From the People Who’ve Lived the Longest.” In 2023, the blue zone idea got a new extension on its life in the spotlight with the Netflix documentary series Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones.
Recently, listening to an episode of the Freakonomics podcast, I heard for the first time about a competing theory. In an interview with Tom Whitwell, who writes a popular list of 52 things he learned each year, Freakonomics host Stephen Dubner calls out that Whitwell including the following in his 2023 iteration: “The number of supercentenarians in an area tends to fall dramatically about 100 years after accurate birth records are introduced.”
“If you were somebody who read Sunday supplements of newspapers or if you watched National Geographic, they spent a lot of time talking about blue zones, which were areas where people lived remarkably long, like 110 years old,” Whitwell explains on the podcast. “They’d talk about eating beans, drinking red wine, not too much food, little amounts of meat, natural exercise — not going to the gym, but gardening, having friends, having a sense of purpose.”
Whitwell went down a rabbit hole on blue zones and found an Oxford academic named Saul Newman. Newman appears to be on a quest to put an end to the blue zone conversation — and his deeper, academic look past the longevity headlines and flashy promises leads to a more sobering understanding.
The research is compiled in part in the paper “Supercentenarian and remarkable age records exhibit patterns indicative of clerical errors and pension fraud.”
The title alone is a lot to unpack. Digging a little deeper into the numbers and data shows how people capitalize on missing documentation for attention and money. In the United States, for example, the paper notes that supercentenarian status sees a 69 to 82 percent decrease when state-by-state birth certificates were instituted.
Higher old-age poverty rates in England and France were associated with claims of longer lives. In fact, the key indicators of a population seeing exceptionally long lives in Italy, England, and France were things that you would think would lead to earlier deaths: “poverty, low per capita incomes, shorter life expectancy, higher crime rates, worse health, higher deprivation, fewer 90+ year olds, and residence in remote, overseas, and colonial territories.” Three blue zone regions in particular (Sardinia, Italy; Okinawa, Japan; and Ikaria, Greece) have low incomes, low literacy, high crime rates, and shorter life expectancy than their respective national averages.
Accurate records seem to be the biggest issue. Of all of the supercentenarians, only 18 percent have a birth certificate, the paper notes, and zero of those in the US have one. What’s more, the birthdates of supercentenarians are more common on days divisible by five. Either there’s a whole lot more riding on what date a person is born than people think, or people who guesstimate their age have a lack of imagination and a preference for dates that end in five or zero. Or, you know, outright fraud taking advantage of chaotic record-keeping situations for attention and monetary payments.
“The way I imagine this is, you’re living in a small rural town in remote Greece or Italy,” Whitwell says on the podcast. “Somebody comes to you with an idea, they say, ‘I’ve got a mate who works in the council, and if we pay him a bit of money, he can change your age so that you as a 50 year-old are now 60 so you get your pension.’”
The numbers of fudged ages for financial gain point in the fraud direction. In Greece, for example, 200,000 people lost pension payments after the 2012 financial crisis. Turns out many of those claims were for people already dead. In Japan in 2010, some 230,000 Japanese centenarians were missing, invented, misreported, dead, or otherwise unaccounted for.
Okinawa, Japan’s blue zone, was significantly damaged during World War II. Whitwell mentions about 90 percent of paper records were destroyed, and new documents were given by the US military after the war — meaning they were coming form people who use a different calendar and don’t speak the same language. Then there’s the lifestyle question. Okinawa has the highest obesity rate in Japan, Whitwell notes, and it has one of the lowest gardening rates (daily natural movements for things like gardening is one of the things said to increase the lifespan in blue zones). Okinawa also has Japan’s fourth-highest rate of suicide for people over 65 (happiness and community being another blue zone indicator) and eat an average of 40 kilograms of meat annually (five kilos per year is the target in blue zones).
The idea that there are certain places in the world with lifestyles that lead to longer lives is extremely enticing. Traveling to these locations and learning from these lifestyles, the thinking goes, could lead to longer lives elsewhere. The reality is a lot messier. In fact, the real key to longevity is much more depressing.
“So, rich people live longer,” Whitwell tells Dubner. “Rich countries, the average life expectancy is 80-plus. Poor countries, it’s 60-plus. It’s not mysterious, or subtle.”
Money might not directly buy happiness, but it does seem to buy a longer life.
This Charleston, SC, Hotel Was Made for Adventurous, Oyster-Loving Foodies
It’s an early weekday morning in Charleston, South Carolina, and I’m discovering just how civilized coffee, minutes-out-of-the-oven scones, and fresh berries are as day brighteners. My breakfast is highlighted by the view of just-bustling East Bay Street in the Charleston Old and Historic District.
I’m parked at a cozy table in a discreet front corner of the lobby of The Palmetto Hotel, where I’m staying with my wife to take advantage of the Lowcountry Oyster Farm Package for Two, one of a handful of special offerings that the hotel organizes. Our plan is to soak up the chill, classic vibe and warm hospitality at The Palmetto, enjoy a few days of the Holy City’s eclectic dining scene, spy some historic architectural sites, and peruse handmade crafts along the fabled open-air Market Street stalls.
What really piques our appetite, though, is the chance to diverge a bit from the standard Charleston visit and get out onto the intercoastal waterway. We’re lured by the promise of an immersive experience on the ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge and a view of the pristine ecosystem where meaty, sweet, and briny mollusks are sustainably raised from seed.
Lowcountry Oyster Company, one of the area’s premier sustainable oyster producers, awaits us. Founder Trey McMillan sold his first crop of oysters a year after setting up operations in 2017. Today, the company supplies Charleston restaurants and Southeast-based wholesalers with upwards of one million oysters per year.
The company added ecotours about a year ago to help share its story of sustainable aquafarming and gain greater exposure for the business. In store for my wife and me is a personalized tour, starting with an hour-long drive west of Charleston by private car to the unincorporated coastal town of Green Pond.
Offerings at The Palmetto: The Lowcountry Oyster Farm Package for Two
Photo: Michael J. Solender
We’re collected at The Palmetto by a driver in a sporty Lexus sedan, and we head out for a scenic drive into the heart of the South Carolina’s Lowcountry, a region defined by salt marshes (a type of estuary) and coastal waterways that host a biodiversity of plant, animal, and aquamarine life.
Close in, we weave along towards Bennetts Point, the road mere feet above the vast marshlands. Shallow angled Lowcountry sun shimmers in sunflower gold hues off the native grasses and glassy salt water. Tall scrub and craggy oak trees draped in Spanish moss line the approach to Lowcountry Oyster Company’s operation. Shrimp boats, squawking gulls, and lithe silver-toned egrets navigate out on the water.
Upon arrival, we’re met by JB Borgstedt, the ecotour director at Lowcountry Oyster Company. He’s in a hurry to get us out onto the water.
Photo: Michael J. Solender
If we hustle, he says, we can avoid a low tide that will prevent us from unfettered access through his preferred entry point to a shallow marsh area where rows of buoyed oyster cages bob rhythmically with the tide. He plops foldable beach chairs onto his flat-bottomed skiff where he takes the helm. We take our seats, and off we go.
Borgstedt whisks through the glades, regaling us with animated lessons on how to read the water’s surface tension. He notes that the best fishing and oyster growing is at the confluence of flowing waters (in our case the Ashepoo River and Mosquito Creek) where nutrients concentrate.
We get a primer on how oysters are initially raised from seed stock at Lowcountry’s shore-based nursery before being transferred into mesh bags, nestled into racks and cages, and placed out into the water at one of several “farm plots” that the company leases from the federal government. The oysters grow in the marsh where they’re carefully watched and periodically collected, then rinsed and cleaned of mud and parasites and returned to the open water for further growth prior to harvest.
Photo: Michael J. Solender
We’re out on the water for a bit more than an hour and see Lowcountry harvesters at work, migratory birds, and a pod of dolphins that give chase to our boat. Back at the dock, Borgstedt rustles up a dozen just-harvested oysters, shucks them on the spot, and we enjoy a farmer’s snack along with cold beers I just happen to have on hand.
Oysters take on the flavor characteristics of where they’re raised. These are sweet and briny with a hint of clean, gin-like minerality, just like the waters where they grow. They’re small, shallow-cup, three-inch oysters, prized by chefs because a dozen is the perfect sized appetizer, leaving diners still hungry enough for a main course.
Our morning on the water leaves us sated, and we return to The Palmetto to rest up prior to snagging two bicycles on hand for guests for a quick spin around the district.
Back at The Palmetto: Casual-luxe design meets thoughtful comfortPhoto: JB McCabe
With its prime location, The Palmetto offers easy access to many of the Holy City’s charms, including dozens of eateries (more on this later), Waterfront Park with the highly sought selfie spot that is the Pineapple Fountain, and the historic Rainbow Row where a baker’s dozen of pastel colored 18th- and 19th-century Georgian row houses stand collectively in silent sentry.
As one of Charleston’s newest hotels, The Palmetto rightfully earned top accolades in 2023, its first full year of operation. Props include AAA’s Four Diamond Designation, the number two ranking on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards for Charleston, and a spot on Travel + Leisure’s 15 best hotels in Charleston list that same year.
Photo: JB McCabe/The Palmetto Hotel
With only 45 rooms and suites, the hotel and its amenities punch above their compact size’s weight class. Upon check-in, my wife and I are offered a special welcome cocktail. The Mind-the-Gap — a refreshing blended greeting with cucumber vodka, Pimm’s, strawberry, lime, mint, and ginger — starts our holiday on the right note.
Stylish design elements sing at the hotel, especially in the lobby where guests are greeted by palmetto-themed (nodding to the official South Carolina state tree) upholstery on chic lobby wing chairs and loveseats, an inverted palmetto frond crystal chandelier shimmering in gold, and several verdant green pastel shades of wall covering and accent pieces that wrap the bright and airy multi-story space.
A true diamond is found in the handsome lobby bar where the mirrored and backlit shelving hosts premium brand Clase Azul tequila, Irish gin, and Japanese whiskey alongside all the standards. This is a property that gives great attention to its cocktail program. House-made mixers, syrups, and bitters make the bar popular with guests and locals alike.
Photo: JB McCabe
Our third-floor room is down the hall where sweetgrass handwoven baskets serve as light sconces, and hand-drawn framed botanical flora and fauna sketches inform us that we are in the South. Room design elements echo the palmetto theme, with more shades of green palmetto leaf wall coverings in the expansive bath, logoed robes, and bath slippers.
Small touches add to our comfort with treats like Bamford soaps and bath products, a triple-faucet rain shower, a vintage rotary telephone, oversized pillows, and a plush duvet. There’s even a pocket Charleston guidebook listing local sites and attractions for us to peruse.
In the neighborhood: Where to dine near The Palmetto 82 Queen
Photo: 82 Queen
Going hungry in Charleston is simply not an option with the culinary scene earning international recognition. Though our visit is short, we plan to pair traditional and new-guard dining for the full Charleston experience.
Our first evening out is old-school Charleston with al fresco dining in the courtyard at 82 Queen. For more than 50 years, “the Queen” has delighted all comers with traditional Charleston fare, such as shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and Carolina crab cakes.
We enjoy a cup of the rich and luscious she-crab soup with a splash of sherry; Southern tomato pie with fresh tomatoes slathered in pimento cheese and baked in a buttery crust; and jambalaya with shrimp, crawfish, Tasso ham, peppers, onions, and Charleston red rice. We manage to save room for the Queen’s legendary pecan pie with praline ice cream – it’s plenty to share, and we’re not disappointed.
82 Queen: 82 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401
Ma’am Saab
Photo: Ma’am Saab
Ma’am Saab, a new Pakistani restaurant that was born from a pop-up, is our venue for evening two in Charleston. Chef Maryam Ghaznavi is a growing culinary celeb who guides diners through one flavor bomb after another.
Spice and technique star here, and diners are well served to order a multi-course tasting dinner. We fall in love with Ghaznavi’s deft hand from her first dish, a Masala salad of mixed cabbage, peanuts, coconut, and carrot. The dressing with curry, lime juice, and pungent chilis opens our palates for the gems that follow.
Samosa chat, a stuffed fried triangle, is served over warm curried chickpeas (cholay) and had a hint of fire. Dishes keep coming, with standouts being the butter chicken (served with basmati rice and a lush pillowy naan bread), mixed tikka grill stars (with Kashmiri chili marinated grilled chicken thighs), and freshly ground lamb grilled (with garlic, tomatoes, and cumin).
Ma’am Saab: 251 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
Bumpa’sView this post on InstagramA post shared by Bumpa's (@bumpas_chs)
We make a midday stop before heading home on day three to take in a local pub and fun hangout: Bumpa’s, located just around the corner from The Palmetto. There’s an all-day party energy here to be enjoyed alongside some of Charleston’s best regional beers from brewers like New Realm, Holy City, Indigo Reef, and Frothy Beard.
I pair my midday brew with Bumpa’s famed scotch egg and its southpaw burger, a smashburger with crusty edges that hits the spot. After three days of adventure, a taste of Charleston indulgence wins out, and we’re alright with that.
Bumpa’s: 5 Cumberland St, Charleston, SC 29401
More like thisInsider GuidesHow to Have an Indulgent Weekend Getaway in Charleston, South Carolina's Oldest CityHere’s What It’s Really Like to Stay at an All-Inclusive Dude Ranch in Montana
When most people think of all-inclusive vacations, what usually comes to mind are beach resorts and tropical getaways on remote islands. But if you want your getaway to be more about epic views and mountain adventures than sitting on a beach, you may be surprised to learn that there’s at least one other type of all-inclusive vacation available in the Mountain West: an all-inclusive dude ranch in the majestic state of Montana.
If you’ve ever wanted to stay at a dude ranch, are obsessed with recreating the summer camp fun you remember from childhood, or — like me — are curious what you missed by never attending a sleep-away summer camp as a kid, a resort like Flathead Lake Lodge could be an ideal place to spend your vacation time next year.
The family-owned-and-operated resort sits on the shore of Flathead Lake near Bigfork, Montana, in Big Sky Country. That even includes a 500-acre private elk reserve, home to roughly 37 elk. It’s been open since 1945 and is currently managed by Chase Averill, the third generation of the Averill Family, who seems to have had no problems filling his parents’ shoes — or in this case, cowboy boots.
Flathead Lake Lodge is a modern dude ranch with lots of classic Western activities on offer, all included in the rate. Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge
The all-inclusive western resort is open from May through October. In summer, the focus is on families, with the family season running June through August, while fall focuses on adults-only getaways. The adults-only retreats are popular among solo travelers, couples, families with adult children, and multi-generational groups. The lodge is closed during spring and winter, but in 2024, the main lodge will open for seasonal weekend dinners between December and March.
Flathead Lake Lodge’s sheer size and scope of available activities means visitors can choose the type of vacation they prefer, whether that’s a relaxing mountain getaway or a more old-school western adventure, complete with all the trappings of a real dude ranch.
Here’s what to know if you’re thinking about booking a stay, plus tips I learned during my recent visit in August 2024.
Rooms and cabins at Flathead Lake Lodge
A cabin at Flathead Lake Lodge. Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge
Flathead Lake Lodge has multiple lodging options. I visited during an adults-only retreat and was fortunate enough to stay at one of several rustic mountain cabins scattered throughout the property. These individual log cabins are small yet spacious, with plenty of room to spread out while still feeling cozy. Traditional log furnishings create a rustic mountain feel, and a country quilt sat on top of the luxurious bedding in my cabin — I slept peacefully every night.
Each cabin has outdoor seating perfect for watching the sunrise over a hot cup of coffee or late-night stargazing from your front porch. Cabin sizes range from one to three bedrooms, scattered under the property’s tall pine trees and surrounded by green spaces and brightly colored flowers.
The property’s front desk, saloon, and main dining hall are in the “Main Lodge,” which also houses guests. It was built in the 1930s and is highlighted by a stone fireplace, usually with a roaring fire. It holds three lodge rooms, and number 13 has a bunk bed room to accommodate families with kids. Rooms in the South Lodge can fit both large and small families, with flexible configurations that allow for connecting rooms, if needed. It also has a lobby with comfortable furniture and another roaring fireplace — and let’s be real: Who doesn’t love a fireplace in the middle of a dude ranch lodge?
A living room in the Homestead, which can sleep up to 25 guests. Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge
There are also two suites: the Hillside Suites or the Cedar Suites. Each suite has two bedrooms or can be converted to a one-bed, one-bath. They’re similar to the cabins and priced the same, but may be better for larger groups who want to stay in the same building, rather than separate cabins. The last — and priciest — option is the Homestead, with three units that can be booked individually or combined into a 10-bedroom house. It’s a lovely option for wedding parties, allowing everyone to stay together while still having privacy when it comes to bedrooms.
All rooms are TV-free, but include a variety of vintage books and magazines. And you likely won’t find yourself wanting to watch TV when you see how much there is to do on property. However, if (like me) you need to get work done while you’re there, you’ll appreciate that there’s Wi-Fi throughout the property.
Dining at Flathead Lake Lodge
The main dining room at Flathead Lake Lodge. Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge
Dining at Flathead Lake Lodge is some of the best I’d tasted in the West, bar none. All meals are prepared from scratch by Chef Rob Clagett and his talented team. Clagett, who goes by “Chef Rob,” is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and has been cooking professionally for 16 years, with a focus on French techniques and seasonal cuisine.
Chef Rob’s cooking includes an eclectic mix of hearty home-cooked staples and internationally inspired dishes made with local ingredients from surrounding farms and ranches. Menus change daily, so guests will always see a different meal at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast and lunch are both buffet-style meals so guests can pick and choose their bites, while dinners are set menus. Much of the meat is locally sourced, and many vegetables and herbs used in Flathead Lake Lodge’s meals are grown in the lodge garden.
Pastry chef Amelia is the culinary mastermind when it comes to all-things-dessert, baking fresh cookies, muffins, and so much more — homemade cinnamon rolls or freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, anyone? (Yes, please!) You’d think anyone could bake a good cinnamon roll, but I’d never tasted anything quite as good as these square-cut cinnamon goodies. They’re served warm with swirls of cinnamon and a delicious sugar glaze, and were a delicious way to start the day. And don’t get me started on the cookie selection, which changes daily. Options included fresh chocolate chip cookies, white chocolate chip cookies with cranberries, triple chocolate cookies, and what seemed to be the guest favorite — snickerdoodles. You won’t be able to have just one. During my stay, the cookies were a huge hit among all guests and we compared favorites throughout the retreat.
The resort’s cinnamon rolls were among the writers favorite pastry options. Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge
Retreats are all-inclusive, so all guests need to do is show up with a hearty appetite to enjoy a true taste of Montana. Chef Rob intentionally works with regional purveyors and farmers to source local ingredients, ensuring that guests have access to the freshest food possible while also supporting other local businesses. The menus change daily, starting with high-end variations of a classic rancher breakfast: fluffy pancakes bigger than your hand and thick-cut bacon crisped to perfection. It was so good that I asked where it came from to see if I could get it shipped to my home in Chicago.
However, dining isn’t limited to the resort’s dining areas. For the best breakfast you’ve ever had (or at least what seemed like it to me), you may want to sign up for the Breakfast Trail Ride. Riders will set out on horseback at sunrise, following the guide through the foothills to a scenic area designated as “Breakfast Camp.” There, you’ll find hot coffee and teas, fresh juice, and homemade breakfast items. The original waffles were my favorite, but blueberry also seemed popular. You’ll likely circle back for seconds, but there’s no rush, as you’ll have plenty of time to relax by the fire while sipping coffee and swapping stories with your guides. It’s about as old-school cowboy as you can get without traveling back in time.
Fresh pancakes are a staple of the trail breakfasts at Flathead Lake Lodge. Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge 
Flathead Lake Lodge's breakfast camp. Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge (Fun fact: There are 140 horses on the property — enough for every guest to participate in the experience).
Lunches are themed, with alliterative options like “Mediterranean Mondays” and “Taco Tuesdays” — think falafels, pitas, shredded pork carnitas, and veggie tacos, among other offerings. While I loved the indulgent meals, I also appreciated having access to a fresh salad bar with each meal for days when I felt like I wanted something on the lighter side, rather than a full spread.
Dinner is the most leisurely meal of the day at Flathead Lake Lodge, and guests of the adults-only retreats are treated to different experiences each night. My first day at the lodge was capped by a lakeside welcome dinner of grilled chicken, rice, and vegetables, while night two was an indoor fine dining experience, complete with a wine pairing. The third night was what I’m told is a perennial guest favorite: a classic western steak fry. Guests are escorted to a mountain meadow in a brigade of vintage fire trucks — I advise holding on to your cowboy hat, as the fun vehicles are all open-air.
Hold on to your hat for the ride in open-air fire trucks. Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge
The steak fry felt like a multi-sensory feast. Guests can listen to live music from Gene, the resort’s resident guitarist, while enjoying the aroma and sizzle of steaks searing on an outdoor grill. I sipped on a local beer while watching the preparations, admiring the scale of the in-depth outdoor setup. But one of the most fun elements was unrelated to the food: the lodge sets up a branding station where guests can get their cowboy boots and hats branded with a Flathead Lake Lodge logo (or the ranch’s brand) to step up their cowgirl or cowboy style.
Though I loved the steak fry, the final dinner on the fourth night was also fun for one unique tradition: mouse races. The mice are cared for by Flathead Lake Lodge staff and seem to be considered part of the family. Guests can bet which mouse will win the race; the pot is split evenly, with half going to the winner and half supporting Week of Hope, the resort’s annual event that hosts critically ill children and their families at no cost.
Naturally, the lodge has its own Western-style cowboy bar. Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge
Each night, dinner is prefaced with a happy hour at the ranch’s Saddlesore Saloon in the main lodge. All beverages, including alcohol, are included in the adult-only retreat package. The nightly happy hour includes a selection of appetizers and amuse bouche, and a daily handcrafted cocktail. I highly recommend ordering one (or two). I tried them all, but my personal favorite was the huckleberry vodka lemonade.
It’s important to stay hydrated when you’re being active, or when you’re trying the daily cocktails, so be sure to bring your own water bottle. The main lodge has a filtered water system and is open 24 hours a day, and fresh ice is always available, so you can fill up your reusable water bottles at any time.
How activities work at Flathead Lake LodgeNearly all activities, including classic activities like trail rides, are included in the all-inclusive package. Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge
With 2,000 private acres to explore, Flathead Lake Lodge has both plenty of privacy for guests and plenty of space to offer dozens of activities. While the adults-only retreats take place in the fall, the all-inclusive activities will keep you feeling like a kid at sleepaway summer camp. When visiting with other guests, we all described it as a summer camp, but for adults.
Back in the late 1800s, cowboys referred to people who lived in cities as “dudes,” and the idea of a dude ranch was born: a place for city and urban-dwellers to spend a few days living the Western lifestyle on a ranch. In 1945, Les Averill purchased Flathead Lake Lodge after returning from World War II. Over the next decade, he worked the land, clearing overgrown plants, restoring vacant buildings, and adding new cabins. In the next decade, he purchased more property around the ranch, accumulating plenty of additional land by the mid-1950s. All of that is still the beautiful property of Flathead Lake Lodge. And in the 80 years since then, it’s continued to serve as a dude ranch and popular destination for visitors anxious to escape to the country for a few days.
Mountain biking is one of the newest activities at Flathead Lake Lodge. Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge
However, it’s always testing new offerings and activities — for example, mountain biking was added to the activity list as it’s grown in popularity recently (and because the owner, Chase, loves the sport). The terrain is well-suited to biking, and Flathead Lake Lodge now has 14 miles of purpose-built trails for guests.
Mountain biking — as well as nearly all other activities, with the exception of spa services and sporting clays — are part of the all-inclusive offerings, and all visitors can choose what experience or level of activity they’d like to have. You can see that reflected in the ranch’s offerings, which range from adventurous and active to artsy and relaxed. While most activities are done in groups, there are also opportunities to break out into smaller groups for adventures like trail rides, based on your level of horseback riding experience.
The writer enjoyed archery as much as some of the more traditional cowboy activities. Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge
Aside from the breakfast trail ride, other activities I’d highly recommend include testing your skill on the archery walking course, where guests can try their skill at shooting “real” targets — as in foam shapes of animals native to Montana. I also loved the chance to try sporting clays, using a shotgun to simulate hunting game animals like ducks, pheasants, and rabbits. No real animals are harmed — you’ll shoot at clay discs tossed into the air.
A highlight of the adults-only week was spending an afternoon on the resort speedboat, trying a variety of watersports on the pristine waters of Flathead Lake (the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi). I was even feeling good enough at the end of the day jump off the highest point on the pier when we parked back at the dock. Being from the Midwest, I grew up around a lot of lakes, but Flathead Lake is like no other lake I can remember. It’s absolutely gorgeous, with water so clear that in some parts, you can see straight to the bottom. It’s also one of the most picturesque, with a variety of brightly colored rocks just below the surface. It makes for great photos, and looks almost like a brightly colored bowl of cereal.
Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge
If you prefer to take a more active role in boating, sign up for sailing, especially as Flathead Lake has great conditions for the sport. Guests can set out on the Questa, the ranch’s 51-foot racing sailboat, guided by Captain Scott, who brings 37 years of experience sailing on Flathead Lake.
Activity sign-ups occur during happy hour on the night you arrive. You’ll be given the weekly schedule in advance so you can peruse the events calendar before signing up. You can fit in as many activities as you’d like, but be sure to pace yourself — while it’s tempting to cram your days as there are so many activities to choose from, it’s best to limit yourself to maybe two or three a day. That left me enough time to really enjoy each, but still have plenty of downtime to relax and enjoy the rooms or lodge amenities.
Leave yourself time to enjoy resort amenities, rather than packing every hour with activities. Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge
If you change your mind on an activity you signed up for, no problem — just head to the front desk and let the staff know so other guests can take your spot, as each activity has a limited number of participants. Conversely, if an activity you really want to try is full, head to the front desk and ask if any spots opened up — it never hurts to check.
Exploring around Bigfork, Montana
Towns like Bigfork (shown here), Kalispell, and Whitefish are easy to reach for a day or afternoon from Flathead Lake Lodge. Photo: Montana Office of Tourism and Business Development
Flathead Lake Lodge is just a stone’s throw from Bigfork, Montana. Guests can arrange a complimentary ride at the front desk for an afternoon of dining and shopping in the small mountain town (Population: 5,067).
The property is also about a 45-minute drive from Glacier National Park and very close to several highly rated fly-fishing locations. While you can visit the park for a day from the lodge, after speaking with a few guests, I learned that many of the couples in my group spent a few days exploring Glacier National Park before or after their stays at Flathead Lake Lodge. I also highly recommend stopping in Kalispell or Whitefish for a bite to eat and some shopping after a day of hiking, since both are convenient.
Kalispell is the closest “big city” to Flathead Lake Lodge and an easy stop on the drive between the lodge and Glacier National Park. It has easy access to Montana’s outdoors as well as urban amenities like breweries, distilleries, restaurants, and shopping. Another good option is Whitefish, a picturesque town about 26 miles from Flathead Lake Lodge with a walkable downtown area. Visitors are usually drawn by the art galleries, breweries, and restaurants. It’s worth checking out either during your stay, or for a day or two afterward.
Getting thereAll stays at Flathead Lake Lodge include pickup and drop off at Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell (Airport code: FCA), about 35 minutes away. The lodge can also pick you up from the Amtrak station in Whitefish or any Kalispell area hotel.
You can fly direct to Kalispell from major US cities as far away as San Diego, Seattle, Dallas, Chicago, and Las Vegas, among others, though some flights are seasonal. If you live closer to the East Coast or near a smaller airport, you’ll likely need to make at least one connection.
Flathead Lake Lodge is high-end (and pricey), but the activities and experience really do feel like you’re living the cowboy life. Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge
Whether you’ve always wanted to live like a cowboy, or like the idea of stepping into the Western lifestyle with the convenience of a five-star resort, Flathead Lake Lodge will likely fit the bill. It was a one-of-kind adventure for me, offering plenty of comfort along with great dining and the chance to try a variety of new-to-me activities.
While the price tag may feel expensive at first glance, starting at $3,419 per person for the four-night adults-only retreats, it’s all inclusive, which means you won’t find yourself overspending on extra tours or fancy cocktails. One aspect of my stay I loved the most was not having to deal with details like cooking, organizing travel plans, cleaning a rental house, or even driving. Instead, I spent my time enjoying the landscape, getting to know the experienced and skilled employees of Flathead Lake Lodge, and trying every cowboy-themed activity I wanted — and eating fluffy, homemade waffles every morning, of course.
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