Matador Network's Blog, page 104
October 10, 2024
Amtrak Is Bringing Back This New Orleans Coastal Route After 20 Years
The Amtrak network is huge. The national passenger railroad company of the United States currently services more than 500 destinations in 46 states, and those numbers will soon increase. In 2025, Amtrak will restart a route along the Gulf Coast that’s been suspended for over 20 years.
Passenger rail service between New Orleans, LA, and Mobile, AL, was suspended in August 2005 following the devastation left by Hurricane Katrina. In spring 2025, however, the passenger service between the two cities will start again in a big way: twice daily in each direction.
Why did it take so long for Amtrak to bring back this route, you ask? Well, according to Marc Magliari, Senior Public Relations Manager at Amtrak Government Affairs & Corporate Communications, Amtrak tried to restart the route earlier, but the freight railroads who own the tracks refused to give their approval. Amtrak finally got its way after it brought an action to the federal Surface Transportation Board.
Prior to August 2005, the stretch of tracks between New Orleans and Mobile was part of the Sunset Limited route, which then operated between Los Angeles and Orlando via the Gulf Coast. Today, the Sunset Limited still operates, but only runs between Los Angeles and New Orleans. The new Amtrak route between New Orleans and Mobile will not be connecting to the Sunset Limited, however, there will be daily connections to and from the City of New Orleans route which runs between Chicago and New Orleans daily, Magliari says in an email conversation. “There is also consideration being given to connecting bus service at Mobile to and from Montgomery and Pensacola,” he added.
The very scenic Amtrak service between New Orleans and Mobile will take approximately three hours and make stops in Pascagoula, Biloxi, Gulfport, Bay St. Louis along the way. Magliari explains that travel times will be eventually be “as $200 million in route improvements are made”.
The restarting of the route between New Orleans and Mobile is not the only change planned for the Amtrak network. Starting November 10, 2024, a brand new direct route between Chicago and Miami called The Floridian will launch. 
Charleston’s Iconic Pink Hotel Is Newly Revamped for the Modern Traveler
There’s something special about Charleston, South Carolina. Spanish moss drips from the limbs of centuries-old oaks, and the ghosts of bygone eras wander the streets on cool evening breezes. As I step through the front doors of the historic Mills House hotel, I’m quickly reminded that all of the things that make Charleston special are perfectly captured within these walls. If only they could talk.
A historic property gets a modern redesign
Photo: Mills House
Part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, the blush-hued Mills House is one of Charleston’s most beloved landmarks. Constructed by grain merchant Otis Mills, and designed by architect Jorh Earl, the hotel has been welcoming guests since 1853.
Since its construction, the Mills House has survived the destructive wrath of the Civil War, a decade of neglect in the early 1900s, and a 1968 reconstruction project that salvaged the hotel’s original ironworks and terra-cotta cornices. In 2022, the property underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation, and the results are absolutely stunning.
Upon entering the main lobby, my wife and I were welcomed by a subtle yet inspiring display of Old World charm and modern design. Hanging effortlessly above us — as if standing guard over the hotel’s collection of contemporary art — was an early 19th-century crystal chandelier, which I’m told was acquired from the historic Belle Meade Plantation in Nashville.
Photo: Mills House
It had been several years since I was in South Carolina’s Lowcountry — and over a decade since my last stay at the iconic pink hotel — and I was immediately captivated by the results of its latest redesign. Every detail, from the light-filled lobby and timeless black accents to the chic new furniture and carefully curated decor, is as romantic as it is luxurious.
The renovations don’t stop there. Outside, visitors are welcomed by a garden-side courtyard which features a waterfall, bistro tables, and shade canopies. The guest rooms and premium suites have all been revamped with elegant furnishings, modern amenities, and original artwork by Southern artist Tracy Murrell. Other additions include a rooftop bar and pool surrounded by private cabanas, as well as two new eateries, headlined by the Iron Rose.
Cozy rooms, rooftop cocktails, and party packages at the Mills House
Photo: Mills House
After a seamless check in, my wife and I were guided to the sixth floor, where a spacious Deluxe City View Room welcomed us with sweeping views of Charleston’s historic steeples and colorful gardens. Anchored by a plush king bed, the room includes everything you’ll need to recharge after a day of exploring. A flat-screen television rests against the wall beside a writing desk, the bathroom is beautifully finished, and hanging in the closet are a pair of soft, lush robes that inspire relaxation on a whole new level.
Once we settled in, my wife and I headed downstairs to Iron Rose, the hotel’s new restaurant and bar that’s brimming with Georgian architecture and a sophisticated ambiance. The menu was designed by head chef Gary Mennie, and while it evolves throughout the seasons, our nightly specials included a grilled 14-ounce ribeye with cipollini onion jus, as well as Virginia scallops served on citrus grits with lemongrass hollandaise.
Photo: Mills House
We ordered a bottle of red wine, and at the recommendation of our waitress, delved into a fresh-baked focaccia bread and caprese salad. I ultimately decided on the grilled pork chops with butter bean succotash, a dish I’d order again if I saw it on the menu.
As our culinary journey came to a close, we ascended to The Terrace Bar for a rooftop cocktail. The energy there was romantically relaxed, and Charleston’s lights made for the perfect backdrop for a quiet evening.
The next morning, my wife and I ate breakfast at the Black Door Cafe just off the main lobby. The place feels cozy like a neighborhood coffee shop and the pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and coffee are among the best in town.
Photo: Mills House
Afterward, we stepped outside, and I noticed something curious happening around the corner: a bachelorette party, with four young women piled into a pink, limited edition Nissan Figaro for a once-in-a-lifetime photoshoot.
The bride-to-be was beaming, and with an easy grin, I realized that this was a moment she’d never forget. When I asked the concierge about it later, I was told that it was part of the hotel’s “Pretty in Pink” Bachelorette Package, which includes Poolside Cabana Rooms, a welcome bottle of Veuve Clicquot, dinner at Iron Rose, and much more. The Mills House also hosts weddings, receptions, corporate events, and parties of all shapes and sizes.
Exploring Charleston from the Mills House’s prime location
Photo: tokar/Shutterstock
The Mills House is ideally located within walking distance to some of Charleston’s most notable landmarks. After devouring our cappuccinos and chocolate-filled croissants, my wife and I embarked on a walking tour of the city with Bulldog Tours, which starts just outside of the hotel courtyard.
After a brief introduction, we made our way across Meeting Street to Washington Square and the historic cemetery of Saint Michael’s Church, which sits peacefully in the shadows of a massive steeple. From there, we wandered the cobblestone streets of the French Quarter before heading to Waterfront Park, where the remnants of Fort Sumter rest on the horizon above Charleston Harbor. We learned the story of Charleston’s role in the Civil War as our guide — a sharp, young historian named David — regaled us about the fearless determination and resilience of men like Robert Smalls and James L. Petigru.
Photo: f11photo/Shutterstock
When our immersive two-hour tour came to an end, we decided to keep going. A light stroll along the famed Rainbow Row lead us to more iconic landmarks like the 19th-century Charleston City Market, the French Huguenot Church, and the Gibbes Museum of Art, which was only steps from our hotel and home to an impressive collection of exhibits, from 18th- and 19th-century American paintings to sculptures and ironworks.
As we circled back to the Mills House, we took some time to peruse the charming boutiques and storefronts of lower King Street, each with its own style of Southern charm. That’s how I’d describe our stay at the Mills House, too — utterly charming and authentically Charleston. I can’t wait to come back and do it all over again.
11 Surprising Things You Can’t Take on a Cruise
We’re used to being very careful about what we put in our luggage when we fly. We know, for example, that we can’t pack vapes or e-cigarettes in our checked bags, that liquid is heavily restricted in our carry-ons, and that fireworks are strictly forbidden. What’s not common knowledge, however, is that packing for a cruise is very similar. Cruise lines are very serious about what passengers can and cannot bring on their ships, and they rigorously display long lists of prohibited items on their websites, much like TSA does.
Some of the items that all the big cruise lines prohibit are obvious and common sense. You can’t bring any firearms or firearm replicas, sharp objects like knives or scissors, any illegal drugs, or anything that could be used as a weapon, like a baseball bat or a hockey stick. Others are a much more niche and unexpected, but if you get caught with them, which you will when your luggage goes though the scanner before embarkation, they’ll not only be confiscated and/or destroyed, but you’ll likely be labeled as a naughty cruiser from day one. If in doubt about what you’re allowed to bring on a cruise, check out the cruise line’s website, but the following list should help.
Large coolerYou’re allowed to bring a cooler on board, but it has to be no larger than 12 x 12 x 12 inches in size. Why bigger coolers are prohibited is a bit of a mystery. On its website, Carnival Cruise Line‘s justification reads as follows: “Screening and movement of large coolers through embarkation is an impediment to the boarding and security screening process. Therefore, large coolers are not permitted as carry-on or checked luggage.” Note that most cabins and staterooms on board cruise ships are equipped with a mini fridge so you’re unlikely to need a big cooler.
Clothe steamer and/or travel ironIf, like me, you like your clothes to be wrinkle-free, you’re in for a disappointment: clothe steamers and travel irons are prohibited on cruise ships. The reason behind the ban is that any object containing a heating element is considered a fire hazard. If you want your clothes to be smooth while cruising, you’re either going to have to pay to get them pressed or, if the ship you are on has a laundrette equipped with an ironing board and an iron, you can do it yourself for free in this common area. The same rule applies to curling irons, hair straighteners, and heated blankets, among others. Baby bottle warmers and sanitizers are allowed on a case-by-case basis.
AlcoholThis ban has nothing to do with safety and everything to do with the fact that cruise lines want you to buy the alcohol they sell on board, or even better, purchase a drinks package. I’ve seen people filling water bottles with clear liquor before embarking on a long cruise but I would not recommend it. Getting caught would be extremely embarrassing.
Camouflage and khaki clothingAs surprising as this might be, camouflage and khaki items of clothing are prohibited in several countries, including some Caribbean destinations where cruising in very popular, such as Barbados and St. Lucia. While not forbidden on cruise ships specifically, camouflage and khaki clothing is listed as items to avoid packing on several cruise lines’ websites, including Royal Caribbean’s where it’s stated: “It’s often because the government wants only members of the military to be wearing those colors.”
Multi-plug outletAlong with power strips and extension cords, multi-plug outlets are prohibited on cruise ship due to the fact that they could start an electrical fire on board. Such a ban is problematic for many cruisers who believe the number of outlets in cabins and staterooms are insufficient for their needs.
HandcuffsNo matter what you were planning to do with a pair of handcuffs, you can’t bring it onboard a cruise ship. Anything that could be used as a restraining device is forbidden for the health and safety of all the passengers.
Hookah pipeWhile cigarettes, cigars, pipes, vapes, and e-cigarettes are allowed on board, hookah and water hookah pipes aren’t. Cruise lines don’t explain why this particular smoking apparatus is prohibited, but it I believe that it’s because hookah and water hookah pipes are large, therefore cruise lines assume that people will use them in their cabins or staterooms rather than take them all the way to the ship’s smoking areas. Of course, smoking is strictly forbidden outside of designated areas on cruise ships, which usually includes the casino and a small section of on outdoor deck.
DroneFor safety reasons, it is forbidden to operate a drone on board a cruise ship, therefore travelers attempting to bring one in their luggage will either get it confiscated for the duration of the cruise, or the item will be in the custody of the Chief Security Officer and you can request to have it during port days. That said, rules surrounding drones are varied, and the destinations you’re going to visit on a cruise might not allow them, so do your research prior to sailing.
Medical marijuanaWhile medication with proper prescription is allowed on board cruise ships, medical marijuana is forbidden, no matter how many doctors’ notes you have with you.
Bear sprayIf you’re going on a cruise to Alaska and are planning to do some hiking during port days, know that you’ll have to make do without bear spray. Because it can be used as a weapon, bear spray is prohibited on cruise ships. On its website, Holland America states that “items containing Incapacitating Substances such as gas guns, tear gas sprays, pepper/mace cartridges, phosphorus, acid and other dangerous chemicals that could be used to maim or disable” are forbidden.
SkateboardA variety of sporting goods are forbidden on board cruise ships, including surfboards, canoes, fishing rods, and more, for a variety of reasons. Sporting goods with wheels, such as skateboards and roller skates are prohibited for safety reasons — if you use them on the outdoor decks, you’re more likely to fall overboard, and if you use them indoors, you’ll probably crash into something or someone.
Baby monitorIf you’re cruising with little ones, you’re going to have to make do without a monitor. According to Royal Caribbean, “their radio signal could interfere with ship communication and/or navigation systems.”
I’m Matador’s Creative Director, and I Finally Found A Travel Bag That Does It All
As the Creative Director for an online publisher (Matador Network) for the last 10 years, I’ve been on some wild wild journeys. I don’t want to start this article off by listing them off. However, for the sake of the validity of this review, I do feel like I need to establish the fact that I do get around, quite literally. From chasing humpback whales in Tonga to tagging endangered Eastern Black Rhinos in Kenya to shooting portraits of Dia De Los Muertos in Mexico, I have not had one speciality or style for many of years. I find myself thrown into a myriad of situations that often times could not be any more different than the last place I was shooting.
Need a travel backpack? Check out Matador’s detailed travel backpack reviews: Our favorite carry-on backpacks for your work-from-anywhere lifestyle Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L is the best travel backpack for your money This small backpack is the only travel pack an efficient packer needs The best Patagonia backpacks for travelers These Two Genius Bags Replaced the Four Camera Bags I Used to Carry
Thus enter the problem, my never ending search to find a bag that, for a lack of better descriptions, does it all. One part hiking bag, one part camera bag, one part carry-on travel bag, one part everything else, it simply didn’t exist until I found the Matador Globerider bag. In the four months I have been using this bag it has quickly become my goto piece of equipment when hitting the road or going on another assignment. In short, this bag does it all.
We hope you love the Matador Globerider 45 Travel Bag! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase.
What I love about the Matador Globerider 45 Travel Pack
Proud owner of a matador globerider travel pack 45. Photo: Scott Sporleder
On the beach. Photo: Scott SporlederLet’s talk about the bag itself, the reason why I have been loving this thing and a couple of things I would tweak if there were to be another iteration.
Gotta just get out there and state that the completely open zipper is a game changer. For years, I’ve gone on long hikes/shoot days where I’ve shoved so much into a bag that it shouldn’t be legal. Only to deal with the absolute nightmare of trying to figure out where anything is, as it’s all been jammed down to the base of the bag. Inevitably, I have to remove all the contents of the bag to find the one obscure object I was looking for. Not anymore. I don’t think there’s any feature that I use more on this bag than being able to drop it to the ground, unzip the whole thing and open it like a book just to find exactly what I need.
And because of this, I’ve utilized some small storage kits to throw in there and everything is where it’s supposed to be everytime I open it. I know that mind sound extremely basic, but I can’t tell you enough how much time and headaches it’s saved me on the last few shoots.
The Globerider about to ride the globe. Photo: Scott Sporleder
There are several other features that sound simple but are so clutch. What’s that? A water bottle pocket that actually fits and holds a water bottle? The very stretchable material used for that pocket makes it super easy to put in or pull out a water bottle but also not be worried about it dropping out everytime I bend over or am on the move. The large outside pocket, too, is a simple and quick solution to stuff jackets, various items on that you need to use readily while on the move.
Another feature that I’ve loved is the ability to tuck the extra hip straps into the back itself. While on longer hikes carrying a heavy bag it can be extremely useful to be able to support the weight of the bag around your waist. However I would say I only utilize this maybe 20 percent of the time, because for the most part all of my travels are spent commuting. Putting the bag into an overhead compartment, pulling it out of the trunk of a car, stacking it on a trolly. That’s when these extra straps can be such a pain in the ass, getting stuck on everything. Love the feature of being able to store these things away and out of sight.
What I would change about the Matador Globerider 45 Travel Pack
A good travel pack that's also a good hiking pack. Photo: Scott Sporleder
Hiking with the Globerider. Photo: Scott SporlederThere are a couple of features that aren’t horrible but I just can’t quite tell what the reasoning was behind them. First and foremost is the double handle on the top of the bag. There are two separate handles and despite being a larger person with bigger hands, I always feel like I can’t quite grab both of them at the same time in a comfortable manner. So I end up grabbing one and that kicks that bag off in one lopsided direction. It’s not a huge issue, but it is one that I find a bit annoying while on the run.
The other issue I’ve come across is the shoulder straps themselves. I am not sure if it’s just my body (because I have come across this issue on other bags too) but the end of the straps always seem to land right above my collar bones in way that puts a lot of weight in a bit of weak area. Even when I adjust the straps, the weight distribution always finds its way right into that weird spot, right where it seems like the smallest amount of cushion and support on the straps seem to live.
Again, this might be a particular issue for my specific body type but it’s one of the only issues I found with this bag.
Ultimately, The Matador Globerider 45 is a massive win in my book and one that I grateful to have found. In a world of technical over the top bags with what seems like infinite amounts of tiny pockets and redundant straps, the Matador Globerider strikes the perfect balance of utility, durability and style. 10 out of 10 would recommend.
October 9, 2024
Matador Creators Spotlight: @ChewsToExplore on How to Build a Successful (and Profitable) YouTube Channel
Matador Creators is a place where people who love to travel can come together. It’s a community for talented travel writers, editors, photographers, filmmakers, and influencers. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, you can find support, inspiration, and opportunities to grow your career. From paid gigs to press trips and tips on tools that can help you in the industry, the platform is a place to connect with other travelers, share your experiences, and learn from others.
Here, we chat with creators Chew and Olivia of the Chews To Explore YouTube channel. The married duo discusses how they grew their channel from scratch and monetized from posting weekly videos.
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
Matador: How did you start growing your YouTube channel?Initially, we created videos based on our experiences and what we found interesting. We didn’t have a specific strategy. However, after analyzing our analytics and identifying which types of videos performed well, we better understood what our audience found helpful and enjoyable.
Our audience was particularly interested in budget-friendly content that helped them plan their trips. By focusing on providing valuable information tailored to our viewers’ needs rather than centering content around ourselves, our channel started to grow.
Are you in the YouTube partner program?Yes, we are in the YouTube Partner Program. It took us about nine months of posting videos one to two times per week to get monetized. At the time, the requirements were 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours within the last 12 months. After meeting this criteria, it took us four more months to receive consistent payments from YouTube ads. In addition to ad revenue, we monetize by creating downloadable destination travel guides. These guides are designed to help our audience better navigate their trip planning and are linked in the descriptions of our related YouTube videos.
Do you get approached by travel brands for partnerships?
Yes, we have been fortunate to partner with several companies in the travel industry. Here are a few examples:
Tourism Board of Puerto Rico: For this DMO, we were invited to explore and create two reels showcasing the island’s southern region.
Priceline: We collaborated to create two reels promoting its “25 Days of Deals” to celebrate its 25th anniversary.
Safety Wing: For Safety Wing, we produced a reel highlighting the importance of travel medical insurance.
Viva V Samana by Wyndham: We created reels and a YouTube video sharing our experience staying at this all-inclusive resort.
These partnerships have allowed us to share valuable information and experiences with our audience while collaborating with reputable, budget-friendly travel industry brands that align with our “See the World, Save a Dollar” motto.
What are your best-performing videos, and have you noticed patterns?Our best-performing videos on YouTube are “Know Before You Go” videos for specific destinations and full recap videos that include detailed price breakdowns of every dollar spent on a trip. Both types of videos provide significant value to our audience by offering essential information and practical tips that make trip planning easier and more accessible. We’ve noticed that our viewers appreciate content that helps them prepare for their travels and manage their budgets effectively.
You also have a large presence on Instagram and TikTok. Are you in the creator program on either of those platforms? How does the YouTube creation process compare to TikTok and Instagram?Yes, we are in the Instagram and TikTok creator programs, but we focus most of our energy on YouTube. While short-form content on Instagram and TikTok is quicker to create, we love creating longer videos on YouTube, where we can really go into the details of our travel stories. Moving forward, we plan to be more intentional with our short-form videos to maintain viewer engagement and generate consistent income, similar to what we achieve on YouTube.
Do you have any tips for up-and-coming travel creators?Consistency is key. Don’t start with the sole intention of making money. While there are opportunities to earn, it requires a lot of hard work and dedication. If your main goal isn’t to provide value and help your audience, you might burn out from the effort with little immediate reward. Some creators gain popularity quickly, while others take longer; everyone has their own journey. Make sure you genuinely enjoy creating content and sharing your experiences. Focus on what you love, and the rewards will follow in time.
What are your next goals on social media?Our goal is to reach 100,000 subscribers on YouTube by the end of the year. We want to help as many people as possible: “See the World, Save a Dollar.” In other words, how to have high-value experiences around the world for less cost.
I Went to Scotland to See Where ‘Outlander’ Was Filmed. Fans, These Are The Sites You Need to See.
I’m a devout fan of the Outlander books, so much so that I once spent a week making an 18th-century corset inspired by the main character, Claire. That’s why, when presented with an opportunity to visit Scotland and tour various filming locations for the long-running TV adaptation, I jumped at the chance.
Based on the books by Diana Gabalon, Outlander is one of the most successful recent TV shows filmed in Scotland, joining the ranks of popular movies and series like Skyfall, Harry Potter, Monty Python, and The Buccaneers. Captivating audiences and travelers alike, the genre-bending story blends history, science fiction, and romance against the backdrop of the 18th-century Jacobite Rebellion against England. As the story has played out on screen, the show has kept fans swooning over the Scottish countryside, the castles, and, let’s be honest, the muscular kilted hero, Jamie Fraser.
Over a whisky-pairing dinner at Mharsanta in Glasgow, I chatted with musician and Gaelic language activist Àdhamh (pronounced Argiv) Ó Broin who taught the Outlander cast how to speak the original Scottish language.
“Actually, Sam Heughan, who plays Jamie, was pretty decent,” he told me. “I taught six of the cast: three were brilliant and three had cloth ears.” (Ó Broin declined to divulge the names of the “cloth-eared” cast members but hinted that he encouraged screenwriters to give actor Grant O’Rourke, who played Rupert, more lines and Duncan LaCroic, who played Murtagh, fewer).
Ó Broin is passionate about his efforts to increase Gaelic’s popularity and will only speak the Celtic language to his children — and for good reason. Of the roughly 5.5 million people who currently live in Scotland, only about 60,000 speak Gaelic, he explained. “But there are 100,000 people trying to learn on Duolingo.”
I wonder if they’re all Outlander fans.
It’s a fair question. Since 2013 when the TV show began, Outlander has been a significant driver for Scottish tourism, a phenomenon known as the Outlander Effect. As fans wait for the last season of the series to premiere and more books to be released, a set-jetting trip to Scotland is sure to scratch the Outlander itch. These are the filming locations I visited (and you should, too).
First thing’s first: How are Outlander filming locations in Scotland chosen?
Photo: Kerstin Rodgers
Location scouts have a lot to consider when picking places to shoot. For one thing, filming is an expensive business. The production team needs infrastructure nearby, as well as locations that can be aged. Crew members must remove telegraph poles, satellite dishes, and any modern street furniture such as electric wiring. Then, there’s the matter of filming inside a historic location, which I learned about from the historian and guide of the Newhailes House (more on that below).
At historic properties, all of the original furniture, paintings, and decorative objects must be removed and carefully stored, although sometimes a production team will book the use of certain decorations or furnishings. Any modern lighting, such as electric lights and switches at the location, must be removed or covered. Floors must be protected: Filming equipment is heavy, especially any tracks along which cameras move, and that can damage historic floors. Film and TV lighting is powerful and hot, so crew must be careful that it doesn’t burn ancient wall coverings and paintwork.
At Newhailes House, the Outlander production team booked three months for only one actual day’s worth of filming.
Outlander filming locations in Scotland, organized by categoryCastles and forts: exteriorsDoune Castle
Photo: Kerstin Rodgers
In central Scotland, I visited the 14th-century Doune Castle, which serves as the fictional Castle Leoch in Outlander, as well as Winterfell in the pilot for Game of Thrones. I recognized the exterior and courtyard from the beginning of the first season when Claire first arrived in 18th-century Scotland (although the courtyard was transformed for TV with rustic wooden structures and hay strewn on the floor).
As TV crews have to be extremely careful with historic buildings to make sure that nothing is damaged, the interior scenes of Castle Leoch were recreated on a set. That didn’t detract from seeing Doune Castle’s real interior, however. Highlights included the kitchen with its cavernous fireplace, the wall marked by slashes where knives were sharpened, and the giant stone serving hatches where food rested before being delivered to the lord and lady at their feasting table.
A guide told me that author Diana Gabalon herself has been seen wandering the castle, gathering inspiration, and Sam Heughan himself recorded the audio guide.
Doune Castle: Castle Hill, Doune FK16 6EA, UK
Midhope Castle
Photo: Kerstin Rodgers
About 30 minutes outside of Edinburgh, the ruins of Midhope Castle on the Hopetoun House grounds were used as the exterior setting for Jamie’s ancestral home, Lallybroch. Our guide, the kilted James from Rabbie’s Tours, told us that the production team covered the windows of the ruins, presently just empty gaps, with mock 18th-century glass windows.
Fun fact: According to some French fans I met who while visiting Midhope Castle, Outlander is dubbed into French using French actors, but when Jamie speaks Gaelic, it reverts to Sam Heughan’s original voice.
Midhope Castle: Midhope, Abercorn, South Queensferry EH30 9SL, UK
Blackness Castle
Photo: Kerstin Rodgers
Blackness Castle, a short drive from Midhope Castle, is a 15th-century fortress perched near a misty shore on the Firth of Forth (“ness” translates to water). The atmospheric building appeared in Outlander on multiple occasions: It’s where Jamie had to rescue Claire when she was captured by the evil English soldier Jack Randall, as well as the location of the prison where Jamie was tortured by “Black Jack” Randall (some of the other prison scenes were filmed at nearby Linlithgow Palace).
Shaped like a stone ship, Blackness Castle features multiple spiral stone staircases leading to ramparts with tempestuous waters splashing over black rocks. The bleak location also doubled as Hamlet’s castle in the film by Franco Zeffirelli.
Blackness Castle: Blackness, Linlithgow EH49 7NH, UK
Dean Castle
Photo: Kerstin Rodgers
South of Glasgow in Kilmarnock, I visited Dean Castle, which stood in for Beaufort Castle in the eighth episode of Outlander’s second season when Claire asked Lord Lovat, Jamie’s grandfather, for help. The castle’s courtyard, again aged to resemble the 18th century, appeared in several scenes.
Dean Castle: Dean Rd, Kilmarnock KA3 1XB, UK
Castles and forts: interiorsNewhailes Mansion House
Photo: Kerstin Rodgers
At the 17th-century Newhailes Mansion House, east of Edinburgh, a National Trust of Scotland historian named Diane guided my group. She recounted a chilling moment when she was alone in the building and heard her name being called.
“I know there are presences, what they call residual activity, but I didn’t like that they used my name” she said. “It felt too personal, so I spoke aloud asking them not to do that.” As I listened to Diane’s story, I glanced around and felt a shiver down my spine.
One memorable stop on the tour was the dimly lit dining room, which featured paintings on either side of an Italian marble fireplace. A paint analysis of the room showed that it had only ever been painted twice, both times a rare and olive green made from dyes derived from plants such as hawthorn trees, so the current color is historically accurate. Scenes from Outlander were filmed in both the living and dining rooms, and the prop department was asked to keep the original paintings on the wall. In season four of the show, fans may remember fake candles lighting the mansion while the pre-revolutionary British Governor Tryon Claire entertains Claire.
Fun fact: In true rococo style, stucco embellishments and gilded scallop shells surround the mansion’s paintings. The scallop shell was a symbol of the Jacobins, supporters of the Catholic Stuart line, in the 18th century. You’ll also see the shell on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage in Spain (Saint Iago means James), and in French, scallops are known as coquilles de Saint Jacques.
Newhailes Mansion House: Newhailes, Musselburgh EH21 6RY, UK
Traquair House
Photo: Duncan2406/Shutterstock
Although the origins of Traquair House, Scotland’s oldest inhabited castle, aligns with Outlander’s era, it wasn’t actually used in the show, much to the disappointment of current owner Catherine Maxwell Stuart, the first female laird (estate owner). Filming attracts visitors, which brings income to costly castles. However, I suspect that Diana Gabaldon drew inspiration from the history of the house and its inhabitants. In the castle’s ancient library, visitors can see coded letters on display that were sent between Jacobite agents, a storyline that’s featured in the Outlander books.
The family that inhabits Traquair House are recusant Catholics, meaning they refused to attend Church of England services post-Reformation, a crime punishable by death, fines, and prison until the 1920s. They were an original part of the Jacobite movement, and their constant danger of arrest in Protestant Britain in the past explains the castle’s secret stairwells and priest’s holes.
One of Stuart’s predecessors, Lady Winifred Maxwell, whose oil portrait peers down at visitors in the living room, daringly rescued her husband from the Tower of London prison. After petitioning King George I for clemency but failing to free her husband, Lady Winifred visited the tower hiding an extra cloak and petticoat. Her husband escaped, dressed as a servant with his face patted with makeup, while Winifred remained in his cell and pretended to converse, even imitating his voice. This is reminiscent of the heroic lengths that Claire goes to save Jamie.
Despite not serving as a filming location, Traquair House’s history makes it a fascinating addition to any Outlander itinerary. Much as Mary Queen of Scots once stayed there — you can see her handbag, purse, shoes, and the bedroom she slept in — three of the castle’s rooms are bookable on Airbnb for $315 per night.
Traquair House: Traquair House, Traquair, Innerleithen EH44 6PW, UK
Historic villages and townsCulross
Photo: Kerstin Rodgers
Culross is a village in Fife, roughly located between Glasgow and Edinburgh. A well-preserved example of a 17th-century Scottish burgh, Culross posed as Cranesmuir in Outlander where the witch Geilis Duncan, along with Claire, was put on trial for witchcraft. You can see her towering house complete with one of the village’s characteristic owl holes, or places for owls to perch and hunt vermin in attics. (This custom also served as inspiration for JK Rowling and her Harry Potter series.) While in Culross, be sure to stop by the village green, as well. There, a boy had his ear pinned to a wooden post as a punishment for theft, inspiring the phrase “tearaway.”
Falkland
Photo: Kerstin Rodgers
Another town in Fife that’s worth a visit for Outlander fans is Falkland, which represented Inverness in the show where Frank and Claire stayed at Mrs. Baird’s bed and breakfast. In Falkland, I stood next to the Bruce Fountain where Jamie’s ghost was spotted looking up at Claire’s bedroom, making for a great photo opp. History buffs might also enjoy Falkland Palace, once a royal residence for the Stewart monarchs.
Troon
Photo: Kerstin Rodgers
Troon is a charming coastal village and port in South Ayrshire on southern Scotland’s west coast that overlooks the island of Arran. In Outlander, it was transformed into the port where Jamie and Claire set off by tall ship to America.
Bonus: Outlander filming locations in Scotland used for American scenes
Photo: EvaGZ/Shutterstock
Interestingly, Outlander scenes set in North Carolina were actually filmed in Scotland, as well. Parts of North Carolina resemble Scotland, which is one reason why many Scots were attracted to it after the Battle of Culloden in the mid-18th century. In fact, James, my group’s Rabbies guide, told us that Indigenous phrases such as Mohican (meaning “my hair”) and moccasin (meaning “my shoe”) derived from Gaelic.
The Arniston House in Midlothian and Beecraigs Country Park in Linlithgow are among the Outlander scenes filmed in Scotland that represent North Carolina in the show.
A New High-Speed Train Links Paris to Berlin in Time for Christmas Market Season
Surprisingly, among the vast rail network that covers Europe, there is currently no direct day train service between two of the continent’s most visited cities: Paris and Berlin. It’s all about to change starting in December 2024, however. Thanks to an agreement between the SCNF and DB, the national railway companies of France and Germany, a new direct, high-speed train service will connect both capitals in just eight hours.
The new rail service will be operated by German ICE trains (the fastest trains in Europe) and will run once per day, leaving Paris Gare de l’Est at 9:55 AM and arrive in Berlin Hauptbahnhof at 6:03 PM. The return route will leave Berlin Hauptbahnhof at 11:54 AM and arrive in Paris at 7:55 PM. There will be only three stops along the way: one in Strasbourg, France, one in Karlsruhe, Germany, and one in Frankfurt, Germany.
The route will launch on December 16, 2024, right on time for travelers to make their way to Berlin and see the German Capital’s many Christmas markets, including the one on Breitscheidplatz where revelers can enjoy mulled wine, gingerbread, and handcrafted toys from over 100 stalls, as well as carrousel rides.
A direct rail link between Paris and Berlin will not only satisfy travelers’ increasing interest in train travel, but it will also likely encourage everyone to opt for a mode of transport that is more sustainable than flying. According to the SCNF, traveling by train between the two European capitals will emit 100 times less CO2 than flying the same route, more precisely 2Kg instead of 200Kg of CO2.
Currently, traveling by train between Paris and Berlin requires at least one connection, but often necessitates more, and involves multiple stops, making the journey lengthy.
Take it from someone who’s experienced that route recently. I traveled between the two cities in July by way of one Eurostar and one ICE train, and had to connect in the extremely busy and crowded main train station in Cologne for over one hour. A direct ride would have been a lot more comfortable and practical on my very long train journey to reach the German island of Rügen.
Nightjet, operated by ÖBB, the national railway company of Austria, is currently the only one offering a direct rail link between Paris and Berlin, and only does so in sleeper trains that run overnight. The night ride take a little over 14 hours and starts at $38 (€34.90) for a seat in a six-person carriage and $98 (€180) for a private compartment with several berths.
Reservation for the new direct, high-speed train service between Paris and Berlin start at $65 (59.99 €) and will open on 16 October.
For Sophisticated Charm in Grindelwald, Visit the Boutique Hotel Glacier
Grindelwald, the iconic mountain town a train’s ride from Interlaken in south-central Switzerland, is renowned for its breathtaking alpine views of the Eiger and other prominent peaks. The Boutique Hotel Glacier perfectly captures that beauty from your room. The entire south side of the hotel is designed to showcase the . From the bottom-floor spa to the ground-floor restaurant, floor-to-ceiling glass walls frame the scenery, while the rooms feature glass doors that span nearly the entire wall for an uninterrupted view. While the hotel blends into the traditional alpine chalets surrounding it, its elegant, modern updates give it a unique charm. Dating back to 1864, Hotel Glacier effortlessly marries history with contemporary luxury, nestled beautifully against the mountain and local farmhouses.
We hope you love the Boutique Hotel Grindelwald! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Rooms at Boutique Hotel Glacier
@epic.stays Wake up to breathtaking mountain views atHotel Glacier in #Grindelwald
@Joanna | Travel Creator #switzerlandtravel #luxuryhotel #switzerland #creatorsearchinsights ♬ Good Days – Yenibi
The original hotel and restaurant has undergone several upgrades and expansions and is now a 4-star boutique hotel with 28 rooms. The rooms on the north side face Reeti Mountain and Schwarzhorn Mountain, while the south-facing rooms offer direct views of Eiger Mountain. All of these south-facing rooms come with private balconies perfect for enjoying the stunning scenery with your morning coffee. Of the south facing rooms there are five “Signature Rooms” that feature a private whirlpool. I stayed in one of these Signature Rooms, and it was the epitome of peaceful seclusion. We enjoyed our coffee on the balcony in the crisp morning air and sipped wine in the whirlpool by night, winding down after long days of hiking.
Each Signature Room features a luxurious king-size bed with a COCOMAT mattress, along with a comfy seating area and a large bathroom. The rooms are also outfitted with modern conveniences, including a TV with Apple TV, a Nespresso coffee machine, a Marshall Bluetooth speaker, and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi. But the best part – and where you’ll spend most of your time – is out on the balcony enjoying the hot tub and mountain views.
Amenities at Boutique Hotel Glacier
Photo courtesy Boutique Hotel Glacier
Photo courtesy Boutique Hotel GlacierThe hotel takes priority in your wellness. To match the whirlpools in some of the rooms they also feature a wonderful spa and gym. The spa has a traditional steam sauna as well as a hammam, both perfect for relaxing your muscles after a long day. In the traditional sauna they even leave the bucket and ladle to decide how intense you want the experience to be. Additionally, you can indulge in a massage for an extra fee. The spa also boasts a number of water beds, an open-air whirlpool, and a relaxation area with refreshments—all offering breathtaking views of the Eiger mountain.
Things to do in Grindelwald
Photo courtesy Boutique Hotel Glacier
While in town we took advantage of the local attractions. With our stay we received passes to the local bus to get around. The area is unique for its abundance of beautiful hikes throughout the Jungfrau region, as well as various adventure attractions. The most popular attraction in the area is Grindelwald First. The gondola to First starts from the middle of town and takes you up 25 minutes to 2,168 meters (7,113 feet) above sea level. From here we walked the Cliff Walk trail, which wraps around the peak and across a suspension bridge to a view of the high alpine. From here you have the options of ziplining or taking a four-person glider, both of which will fly you down the mountainside at about 50 mph.
After this, instead of taking the gondola all the way back down, you can choose between a 3-wheel mountain cart or a standing trottibike scooter. Either will take you down the mountain past the flower meadows, grazing cows, and farm houses. There are tons of breathtaking hikes and gorge walks for all levels in the Jungfrau region.
Restaurants at the Boutique Hotel Glacier
@epic.stays Breakfast with a view that’s almost too beautiful to be real
Glacier has been a hotel and restaurant from the start, and the staff take just as much pride in their dining experience as they do in their wonderful accommodation. Restaurant Glacier is a fine dining fusion of traditional Alpine with a French Finesse. The menu features both 5- and 7-course tasting options that showcase the vibrant flavors of the mountains. Additionally, the hotel offers the à la carte restaurant, Petit Glacier. No corners were cut in the hotel, even the complimentary breakfast buffet was spectacular. It went beyond the standard bacon and eggs, providing an array of meats, cheeses, spreads, breads, and coffee. The nicest touch was the option of champagne on the terrace.
How to get hereThere are two main ways to get to Hotel Glacier. We rented a car and drove from Geneva which was about a 2.5-hour drive. Gridelwald is a small alpine town making it very easy to navigate through. There is parking on site and with everything being so close there wasn’t much need for the car after arriving. The second and seemingly more popular option was to take the Swiss Railways using the Swiss Travel Pass. You can catch a train from most cities in Switzerland including Geneva and Zurich.
October 8, 2024
Matador Creators Tool Spotlight: AsqMe on How to Monetize From Viewer Questions
The Matador Creators team wants to set travel creators up for success. Whether you end up booking a gig through Matador, we want to share resources that can guide your creation process long-term and help you find new ways to monetize your content.
Here we talk with AsqMe’s co-founder, James Alexander. AsqMe is a platform that allows creators to monetize directly from questions their audience asks. Fans and followers can “skip the line” in YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok comments to guarantee a response via AsqMe. With travel creators, this could relate to an upcoming trip itinerary, travel suggestions and tips, and anything else related to your content.
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
Matador: What are the main benefits of AsqMe?James Alexander: Creators benefit from using AsqMe by having a single inbox to manage questions from across all of their platforms, which helps them stay organized and save time. AsqMe also enables users to generate additional revenue by answering questions from their audience and provides tools like AI-powered FirstDraft to help craft and expedite responses efficiently. Creators have the flexibility to set the price for their expertise or charge nothing at all, allowing them to monetize their content in a new way while engaging with their audience and driving more views.
How do creators monetize, and how much can they earn?Creators on AsqMe can monetize content by charging for answers or earning tips. The amount charged per answer is at the their discretion, with most charging between $10 and $20 per answer. On the Starter Plan, they keep 80 percent of their earnings. On the Pro Plan subscription, 100 percent. AsqMe has paid thousands of dollars to users, with active creators earning hundreds or more monthly. You can withdraw funds anytime from the AsqMe payment account, powered by Stripe.
Who can benefit from the platform?AsqMe is designed to be a versatile platform that can be used across various social media platforms to manage and monetize audience questions. Today, questions are coming through AsqMe to creators on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Patreon, Facebook, Linktree, and several other social media platforms, consolidating messages into a single inbox. Whether users charge for answers or not, they can use AsqMe as a powerful tool to manage audience engagement and streamline responses.
What can AsqMe do specifically for travel creators?AsqMe is a game-changing addition to the “creator stack” for those in the travel media industry. First, you can manage the influx of questions you receive by using AsqMe as a single inbox for all platforms, making it easier to engage with an audience and meet them where they are. As many travel creators have viewers from various countries who speak different languages, AsqMe’s auto-translate feature is especially useful.
Also, as those working in travel are experts whose content often generates serious questions requiring in-depth, detailed answers, AsqMe can easily offer “micro travel consulting” by enabling them to charge for these kinds of high-value answers.
Additionally, the platform allows users to answer questions with video responses, which can be particularly useful for those who wish to share visual content or detailed explanations.
And with FirstDraft, you can use your video content from YouTube as a private AI assistant to automatically craft rich, in-depth answers in seconds. FirstDraft will even find an appropriate video clip from the your archive and cue it up to just the right spot. It’s almost as if AsqMe were specifically designed for travel creators.
Are there any exciting updates coming up?How many of you re-watch your travel videos to answer viewer questions? How many are frustrated that many questions you get were answered in your videos, but the viewer didn’t watch long enough?
We are thrilled to be launching FirstDraft, the very first private AI assistant specifically designed for creators that writes answers to audience questions based on a creator’s video content. Here’s a one-minute video from one of our creator ambassadors talking about the new FirstDraft feature:
To get started all you need to do is connect your YouTube channel to your AsqMe account. Once connected, FirstDraft doesn’t just watch the videos, it understands them. When questions arrive, FirstDraft crafts answers that sound just like you. And each response comes with a video clip cued up to just the right spot, driving more video views. If an expert answer cannot be drafted from your content, a general answer is provided from ChatGPT.
AsqMe’s FirstDraft is unique because it is not an autonomous “bot.” You always get to review and edit the answers and video clips before sending them. We also never commingle creator data or share it with third parties like ChatGPT. FirstDraft is an assistant and will give back hours every week so you can make even more amazing content (or just take a nap).
How can creators sign up?It’s easy and free to sign up for AsqMe. Just visit AsqMe and tap “Sign Up” at the top. Creating an account takes less than four minutes. The two most important parts of the sign-up process are: 1. Connecting your YouTube account to AsqMe to take advantage of FirstDraft, and 2. Sharing your AsqMe link everywhere you post content. Creators who are most successful with AsqMe direct their audiences to ask questions through AsqMe in every video.
Matador Creators Tool Spotlight: AsqMe on How to Monetize From Audience Engagement or Viewer Questions
The Matador Creators team wants to set travel creators up for success. Whether you end up booking a gig through Matador, we want to share resources that can guide your creation process long-term and help you find new ways to monetize your content.
Here we talk with AsqMe’s co-founder, James Alexander. AsqMe is a platform that allows creators to monetize directly from questions their audience asks. Fans and followers can “skip the line” in YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok comments to guarantee a response via AsqMe. With travel creators, this could relate to an upcoming trip itinerary, travel suggestions and tips, and anything else related to your content.
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
Matador: What are the main benefits of AsqMe?James Alexander: Creators benefit from using AsqMe by having a single inbox to manage questions from across all of their platforms, which helps them stay organized and save time. AsqMe also enables users to generate additional revenue by answering questions from their audience and provides tools like AI-powered FirstDraft to help craft and expedite responses efficiently. Creators have the flexibility to set the price for their expertise or charge nothing at all, allowing them to monetize their content in a new way while engaging with their audience and driving more views.
How do creators monetize, and how much can they earn?Creators on AsqMe can monetize content by charging for answers or earning tips. The amount charged per answer is at the their discretion, with most charging between $10 and $20 per answer. On the Starter Plan, they keep 80 percent of their earnings. On the Pro Plan subscription, 100 percent. AsqMe has paid thousands of dollars to users, with active creators earning hundreds or more monthly. You can withdraw funds anytime from the AsqMe payment account, powered by Stripe.
Who can benefit from the platform?AsqMe is designed to be a versatile platform that can be used across various social media platforms to manage and monetize audience questions. Today, questions are coming through AsqMe to creators on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Patreon, Facebook, Linktree, and several other social media platforms, consolidating messages into a single inbox. Whether users charge for answers or not, they can use AsqMe as a powerful tool to manage audience engagement and streamline responses.
What can AsqMe do specifically for travel creators?AsqMe is a game-changing addition to the “creator stack” for those in the travel media industry. First, you can manage the influx of questions you receive by using AsqMe as a single inbox for all platforms, making it easier to engage with an audience and meet them where they are. As many travel creators have viewers from various countries who speak different languages, AsqMe’s auto-translate feature is especially useful.
Also, as those working in travel are experts whose content often generates serious questions requiring in-depth, detailed answers, AsqMe can easily offer “micro travel consulting” by enabling them to charge for these kinds of high-value answers.
Additionally, the platform allows users to answer questions with video responses, which can be particularly useful for those who wish to share visual content or detailed explanations.
And with FirstDraft, you can use your video content from YouTube as a private AI assistant to automatically craft rich, in-depth answers in seconds. FirstDraft will even find an appropriate video clip from the your archive and cue it up to just the right spot. It’s almost as if AsqMe were specifically designed for travel creators.
Are there any exciting updates coming up?How many of you re-watch your travel videos to answer viewer questions? How many are frustrated that many questions you get were answered in your videos, but the viewer didn’t watch long enough?
We are thrilled to be launching FirstDraft, the very first private AI assistant specifically designed for creators that writes answers to audience questions based on a creator’s video content. Here’s a one-minute video from one of our creator ambassadors talking about the new FirstDraft feature:
To get started all you need to do is connect your YouTube channel to your AsqMe account. Once connected, FirstDraft doesn’t just watch the videos, it understands them. When questions arrive, FirstDraft crafts answers that sound just like you. And each response comes with a video clip cued up to just the right spot, driving more video views. If an expert answer cannot be drafted from your content, a general answer is provided from ChatGPT.
AsqMe’s FirstDraft is unique because it is not an autonomous “bot.” You always get to review and edit the answers and video clips before sending them. We also never commingle creator data or share it with third parties like ChatGPT. FirstDraft is an assistant and will give back hours every week so you can make even more amazing content (or just take a nap).
How can creators sign up?It’s easy and free to sign up for AsqMe. Just visit AsqMe and tap “Sign Up” at the top. Creating an account takes less than four minutes. The two most important parts of the sign-up process are: 1. Connecting your YouTube account to AsqMe to take advantage of FirstDraft, and 2. Sharing your AsqMe link everywhere you post content. Creators who are most successful with AsqMe direct their audiences to ask questions through AsqMe in every video.
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