Matador Network's Blog, page 123

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on August 22, 2024 09:27

The Most Chic Montreal Airbnbs in the City’s Coolest Neighborhoods

Quebec’s largest city has its fair share of monuments and museums, especially around Old Montreal and its lively port. The real beauty is found in Montreal’s vivid neighborhoods and non-stop festivals. Bite into wood-fired bagels in Mile End, embrace Canada’s national sport downtown at the Bell Center, and feel très French meandering the bohemian Plateau Mont-Royal. Everyone is welcome at this multicultural, LGBTQ-friendly destination – but ditch the car if you want to live like a Montrealer. These top-rated Airbnbs in Montreal’s walkable neighborhoods let you experience the city by foot, BIXI bike, and metro.

Traveling to Canada? Check out Matador’s Canada accommodations guides The most convenient Vancouver airport hotels for an overnight layover In Vancouver, the city’s innovative hotels double as social hubs The Best Airbnbs in Downtown Toronto, From the Harbourfront To the CN Tower The Best Airbnbs in Calgary For City Life and Mountain Escapes The Best Airbnbs in Vancouver, From a Skyhigh Loft To a Beachside Cabin The perfect Vancouver hotels to experience the best of the city 13 Epic Airbnbs in Montreal for a Bachelorette Weekend

We hope you love these Airbnb Montreal vacation rentals! 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.

Chic pied-à-terre and rooftop in Plateau Mont-Royal

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
Stay in Montreal’s grooviest neighborhood at this awesome Airbnb where a fairy light festooned terrace dishes up views of Mount Royal. The condo is beautifully outfitted with designer furnishings and paintings by your new favorite artists. This is a walk and bike-friendly district that goes predominantly car-free in summer. Practice your French in local galleries, cafes, thrift stores, and yoga studios and hop on Line 2 for anything else.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $325 per night

Family-friendly Airbnb in the Old Port of Montreal

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
This three-bedroom condo has a gigantic lounge with a sectional couch and foosball table plus a covered terrace with plenty of seating. The ultramodern kitchen has an island with bar stools where you can team up to master poutine. Cribs and high chairs are available upon request. Vieux-Port is Monteal’s tourist nucleus and you can roll out of bed into the Notre-Dame Basilica and take your pick from quayside restaurants.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $806 per night

Downtown Montreal condo with free parking

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
Free parking is like gold dust in Montreal so snap up this apartment if you’re road tripping Quebec. Shove the keys in a drawer and explore the city like a Montrealer; this Guest Favorite Airbnb stands at the junction of Ville-Marie and the Old Port of Montreal. The rental has two bedrooms, one family bathroom, and a full kitchen all flooded with natural light. Don’t miss the communal roof terrace.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $292 per night

Belle maison in the heart of Montreal

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
Walk to hockey games and galleries from this sprawling brownstone townhouse one block from Saint Catherine Street. The home benefits from high ceilings, original stone walls, heated bathroom flooring, and a backyard oasis. A fully stocked kitchen with gleaming countertops and shiny new coffee maker will have you torn between staying in or dining out. Parking is available if needed and the metro is seconds away.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $317 per night

Stylish home away from home in Le Village

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
This one-bedroom Airbnb in Montreal’s Gay Village is perfect for nightlife-loving couples and remote workers. The loft has a well-stocked kitchen, a dedicated office space with a monitor, and a deep soaking tub. The owner rents it out when he’s out of town and as a result, it feels more like a home than a vacation let. The LGBTQ+ bars and clubs of Saint Catherine Street and Berri-UQAM Metro Station are five minutes away.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $134 per night

Tip top Mile End apartment for groups

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
Wake up to the scent of freshly baked bagels and Italian roast at this deluxe apartment in Montreal’s foodie-centric neighborhood. All three bedrooms are impeccably designed with king beds, exposed brick walls, and generous windows. Remote workers can squirrel themselves away in the office before regrouping in the lounge. Babies and toddlers are accommodated and pets are welcome upon request.

Seven guests, three bedrooms
Price: $743 per night

Modern luxury condo in the cultural quarter

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
In the middle of the Quartier des Spectacles, this is the best Airbnb for experiencing Montreal’s year-round festivals. Place des Arts hosts everything from jazz to comedy and poutine – and you’ll be first in line. One bedroom is a vision in white, the other a sultry charcoal with a private balcony. Both are en suite and have memory foam mattresses. The Plateau, Old Port, downtown, and Mount Royal are all within walking distance.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $586 per night

Globetrotter’s loft in the Old Port Montreal

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
This incredible loft is installed in a gorgeous heritage building in the most photogenic part of Vieux-Montréal. It’s tricked out with olde worlde traveler paraphernalia to puzzle over while shooting a game of pool. The kitchen and bathroom are fully modernized, there’s five televisions dotted around the apartment, and high-speed Wi-Fi. The private patio is a bonus and there’s zero need to rent a car in this central location.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $408 per night

Downtown Montreal Airbnb with amazing views

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
This gleaming penthouse with floor-to-ceiling windows soars over Ville-Marie’s skyscraper jungle and has views of the Laurentian mountains. The kitchen comes with a huge fridge, breakfast bar, and glossy new crockery. Everything has been accounted for – even detergent is provided for the in-unit washer and underground secure parking is available at no extra charge. Gare Centrale, Center Bell, and the Museum of Fine Art are right out the door.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $218 per night

Guest Favorite Airbnb on The Main

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
This top-rated vacation apartment suits couples looking to frequent the Plateau’s bistros and summit Montreal’s three peaks. The bedroom hides behind a sliding barn door while the lounge has a belter of a sound system with a vinyl library. Best of all is the private terrace and grill. Saint Laurent Boulevard is a cultural landmark packed with boutiques and bars giving way to the cultural happenings in the Quartier des Spectacles.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $180 per night

Comfortable Montreal apartment near Mount Royal

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
This dreamy Airbnb for couples brings a touch of zen to Montreal’s free spirited enclave. The bedroom is a sanctuary of calm with eastern-inspired furniture and it’s not every day you find a tuk-tuk propped up in the lounge. Daily housekeeping is available for a small fee. Wedged between the Saint Laurent and Saint Denis boulevards in Plateau, the rental is a strollable distance from brewpubs, cafes, and theaters.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $271 per night

More like this Art + Architecture Montreal’s Boulevard Saint Laurent Is Canada’s Most Colorful Street

Louisville, Kentucky Flagstaff, Arizona Providence, Rhode Island Somerville, Massachusetts Syracuse, New York Big Bear Lake, California New Haven, Connecticut North Topsail Beach, North Carolina South Padre Island, Texas Ocean City, New Jersey

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on August 22, 2024 09:04

20 Beautiful Last-Minute Airbnb’s for a Labor Day Staycation

According to Airbnb, the number of locals staying within 300 miles of home towns has almost doubled over the past five years. And it makes sense. People want to go on vacation to relax, and there’s nothing wrong with shorter, more accessible getaways and exploring destinations closer to home. There’s also the benefit of supporting regional economies. Small businesses, such as local restaurants, shops, and attractions, gain significantly from community tourism. If you’re looking for last-minute trip inspiration, Airbnb has put together a list of places locals are choosing for their holiday stay-cation, and there are some beautiful rentals in these spots, perfect for Labor Day weekend.

Louisville, Kentucky

Labor Day weekend in Louisville coincides with a bunch of lively festivals and events, making it an ideal time to experience Southern hospitality in an urban setting. You can enjoy the last summer days on the Ohio River, kayaking, fishing, and taking scenic walks along the waterfront, or kick back and cheers with an Old Fashioned at one of the many bourbon distilleries.

Browse Airbnbs in Louisville

Historic cabin near the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Photo: Airbnb

This charming one-bedroom cottage, built in 1783, sits on a 13-acre estate near the famous Bourbon Trail. The two-story cottage has been updated with modern amenities and decorated with antique American and European furnishings and fine art.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $132 per night

Historic home with lots of yard space, a patio, and a deck with views

Photo: Airbnb

This two-bedroom home was awarded a historical plaque in 2019. The host proclaims that the previous owners shared a newspaper article from 1979 that said, according to neighborhood legend, the house floated up the river in a flood in the 1930s and was reconstructed into the beautiful home it is today. This is a superb option for those traveling with kids. There’s a lovely open-planned chef’s kitchen for entertaining, a patio with a bar, an upper deck with a view over a nearby bridge, and a hot tub and corn hole in the backyard.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $270 per night

Browse Airbnbs in Flagstaff

Flagstaff, Arizona

Set among the towering ponderosa pines, Flagstaff offers a refreshing escape from the desert heat. The city and the Airbnbs here, provide a perfect base for exploring the Grand Canyon, plus it has a charming downtown area with art galleries, boutiques, and great dining options.

3-bedroom home near the Grand Canyon

Photo: Airbnb

Breathe in the fresh mountain air at North Star Base Camp, resting on the boundary of the national forest. This two-story Flagstaff cabin features an elevated terrace plus five acres of grounds to run around in; all the better if you bring your dog along to this pet-friendly Airbnb. A well-stocked kitchen comes with all the essentials — coffee maker included — to map out your day trips to the Grand Canyon and wider Flagstaff attractions.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $367 per night

Log cabin with kid’s treehouse

Photo: Airbnb

Browse Airbnbs in Providence

Entirely encircled by thick ponderosa pine, it would be impossible to stumble upon this Flagstaff log cabin Airbnb. A wraparound terrace and upper deck provide the perfect vantage point to ogle the fairytale landscape and glimpse deer in the neighboring Coconino Forest. Charming interiors are decked out with woody fixtures and plush linens for a restful sleep. Quick word of warning: if you travel with kids, they’re absolutely going to put out a plea to sleep in the treehouse.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $499 per night

Book NowTraveling to Arizona? Check out Matador’s Arizona accommodations guides: 11 Phoenix Airbnbs With Luxury Pools, Putting Greens and Artsy Vibes Phoenix airport hotels that put you close to your flight and the entire city These Large, Family-Friendly Airbnbs in the Southwest Make the Perfect Holiday Getaway 12 top-rated Airbnbs in Tucson for a charming southwest adventure

Providence, Rhode Island

Providence offers a variety of outdoor events and festivals, providing opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and beautiful waterfront. Over the weekend, you can enjoy live jazz at the neighborhood-driven restaurant Sarto, attend arts events at The Pawtucket Arts Festival, hop on a comedy brunch tour on the Comedy Bus, and more. Check out the events page at Go Providence for a full list of happenings.

Cottage suite steps away from Brown University and downtown Providence

Photo: Airbnb

This beautiful suite is in the historic William Mason House, which dates back to the early 19th century. It’s a great option if you’re looking for an Airbnb with a professional host, aka hotel-like service. It has a distinctive European ambiance and two lavishly decorated bedrooms that sleep up to seven. There are two private entrances, one in a charming circular cobblestone courtyard out the back of the Airbnb.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $377 per night

Brand new, luxurious apartment centrally located in the West End

Photo: Airbnb

Located in the West End of Providence, close to some of the best restaurants, art galleries, cinemas, and bars, this chic, romantic Airbnb is perfect for a solo traveler or couple on a Labor Day getaway. It’s on the first floor of a gothic-style Victorian mansion and has secure parking for one vehicle.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $263 per night

Browse Airbnbs in Somerville

Somerville, Massachusetts

Somerville has rapidly transformed into a dynamic and sought-after destination in Massachusetts, and its proximity to Boston makes for an easy getaway. Somerville has a thriving arts scene, exciting restaurants, and lots of green spaces to enjoy. The Mystic River, which runs through the city, is popular for kayaking, fishing, and enjoying the outdoors over Labor Day weekend.

Family home five miles from Boston

Photo: Airbnb

This light-filled family Airbnb is less than five miles from Boston. It’s ideally located in Somerville, just a short walk from Tufts, the MBTA train to Harvard and Boston Common. The home has been recently renovated and has three bedrooms, perfect for a family getaway.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $425 per night

Stylish apartment minutes from Tufts University

Photo: Airbnb

Browse Airbnbs in Syracuse

This two-bedroom apartment is another equally well-appointed Airbnb in Somerville. It’s close to many cafes and restaurants and just a short stroll from Tufts University. There’s free parking in the driveway, and a lovely backyard space has outdoor dining, seating areas, and a large BBQ for Labor Day grilling.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $398 per night

Book NowTraveling to Massachusetts? Check out Matador’s Massachusetts accommodations guides: The Best Airbnbs in Boston, From Beacon Hill to a Ship in the Harbor The 8 Finest Hotels in Boston Within Walking Distance to All Must-See Downtown Attractions These Striking Boston Hotels Give You Easy Access to Everything in the City This Luxury “Campground” Lets You Glamp Surrounded by Cape Cod’s Stunning Natural Beauty

Syracuse, New York

As a historic college town, Syracuse has an evolving cultural scene with renowned institutions like Syracuse University and Le Moyne College. You can explore world-class museums like the Everson Museum of Art and the Onondaga Historical Association or take advantage of its proximity to the Adirondack and Finger Lakes regions for water sports galore. You can also attend The Great New York State Fair, which runs over Labor Day weekend and features concerts, food, rides, and exhibits.

Cozy, stylish 1920s 2-bedroom walking distance from James Street

Photo: Airbnb

If you’re considering visiting Syracuse by public transport, this two-bedroom home is a great option. It’s in a very walkable area close to local restaurants, a coffee shop, bookstores, and local shops on James Street. Originally a 1920s bungalow, the owners have added an additional master bedroom suite, which is a perfect escape for those who’d like some peace and quiet over the weekend.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $203 per night

Plush, colorful apartment centrally located in downtown Syracuse

Photo: Airbnb

This central apartment is located in downtown Syracuse. The brand-new Airbnb might require sunglasses — the owners have not shied away from color or neon, but it has everything you’d expect (and need) from a modern rental. It’s also a top five percent Airbnb, which means it has outstanding five-star reviews from past guests.

Six guests, one bedroom
Price: $109 per night

Browse Airbnbs in Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake, California

Labor Day weekend in Big Bear Lake is heaven on Earth. As summer crowds dissipate, you can enjoy a more tranquil visit while still taking advantage of the area’s outdoor playground. The foliage is also beginning to turn, creating a stunning backdrop for hiking and photography.

Luxury lakefront home with a hot tub and panoramic views

Photo: Airbnb

On the shores of Big Bear Lake, this luxury A-frame cabin is the ultimate lakefront getaway. The light drenched home offers panoramic views over the water and mountains. There’s a expansive deck with a hot tub, an EV charger, private dock, and it’s dog friendly.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $852 per night

Modern A-frame mountain retreat

Photo: Airbnb

Browse Airbnbs in New Haven

A-frames seem to be in fashion in Big Bear, and this family retreat is located in one of the area’s most desirable neighborhoods. It also borders the national forest, so there are plenty of hiking trails nearby. It’s an ideal rental for a group, as there are outdoor games, a movie screen projector, and a huge grill on the wrap-around deck.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $327 per night

Book NowTraveling to Southern California? Check out Matador’s California accommodations guides: Get The Most Out of Palm Springs At These Guest Favorite Airbnbs 8 Gorgeous Palm Springs Airbnbs With Private Pools The 9 Best Palm Springs Airbnbs for a Bachelorette Party to Remember These Are the Best Cannabis-Friendly Airbnbs in Los Angeles 9 dreamy oceanfront Airbnbs up and down the California coast 10 soulful beach Airbnbs for the perfect SoCal yoga retreat

New Haven, Connecticut

With the approach of fall, New Haven comes into its own and the weather is often nice, making outdoor activities even more enjoyable. The town hosts various events and festivals for all ages over the weekend, such as apple picking at Bishop’s Orchards.

Designer 2-bed apartment in Wooster square

Photo: Airbnb

This designer apartment was the former Coca-Cola bottling plant and has been stylishly renovated into a stunning two-bedroom. It’s on Wooster Square, steps from historic Wooster Street, and, according to the host, minutes from the best pizza in New Haven. Past guests rave about the level of detail and service from the hosts, who go the extra mile to make a memorable stay.

Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $282 per night

Huge 5-bedroom house fit for royalty

Photo: Airbnb

This is one of the most sought-after Airbnbs in New Haven, and it’s easy to see why. This stunning five-bedroom house looks more like a mansion. The host says no expense has been spared decorating and setting up this rental. There’s a beautiful sun-drenched porch with a dining table for eight, an enormous hot tub, a home gym, and a private garden.

Ten guests, five bedrooms
Price: $458 per night

Browse Airbnbs in North Topsail Beach

North Topsail Beach, North Carolina

A Labor Day weekend getaway to North Topsail Beach offers a final chance to enjoy warm weather and beach activities. While the island doesn’t host large-scale events like other coastal destinations like its southern neighbors Myrtle Beach or Charleston, its chilled vibes, family-friendly atmosphere, and abundance of outdoor pursuits make it an ideal place to relax and unwind.

Round cottage with wrap-around deck near the beach

Photo: Airbnb

You can sit on this fabulous round cottage’s deck and listen to the waves; it’s that close to the beach. The open-concept floor plan includes a full kitchen, a separate central dining space, a cozy living area, and two bedrooms. The interior celebrated its surroundings with bohemian-beach style decor and Gray Malin-inspired artwork.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $218 per night

Beach house so close to the ocean you could fish from the deck

Photo: Airbnb

You can almost touch the ocean from this private beach access rental. The upper deck has pergola shading, while the lower spa deck has an outdoor shower, lounge chairs, and plenty of room to chill while looking out over the ocean. The views from this property are unmatched. It’s within the top five percent of listed Airbnbs, and although it might not have a dishwasher, this is one to bookmark.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $475 per night

Browse Airbnbs in South Padre Island

South Padre Island, Texas

As the summer season begins to wind down, South Padre Island hosts a number of events and activities to celebrate the long weekend. Expect superb firework displays and epic sale shopping for beach essentials.

1-bedroom beachfront condo seconds away from Majestic Beach

Photo: Airbnb

South Padre Island goes off at this time of year, so finding a rental here can be challenging. However, if you’re a solo traveler or couple, check out this one-bedroom beachfront condo. Majestic Beach is just outside the sliding doors, and there’s private access to the sand. As it’s in a complex, guests can use the communal pool and make use of the free parking. If you have extra guests, there’s a pull-out queen-sized sofa bed. This is another Airbnb that is within the top five percent of rentals and has outstanding reviews.

Five guests, one bedroom
Price: $290 per night

Single-story home half a block from the ocean

Photo: Airbnb

Named the “Surf Shack,” this single-story rental is rustic yet modern. It has an epic backyard with a private heated pool and a cabana, and it’s centrally located on the island. From the rental, you can walk to the beach, shops, restaurants, and nightlife at the bayfront bars. Pets are welcome, too, and the yard is fenced in.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $375 per night

Browse Airbnbs in Ocean City

Ocean City, New Jersey

Ocean City offers a classic seaside experience with its wide, sandy beaches, iconic boardwalk, and family-friendly atmosphere. The Ocean City Music Pier will be rocking out with live music and fireworks. And if you’d like to get your steps in, the annual OCNJ Labor Day Race, a popular beach run, takes place on Monday.

Brand new single-family home five minutes from the beach

Photo: Airbnb

The host says all you need is your swimsuit for your vacation here. This house has everything you need for an Ocean City beach getaway. The beach and boardwalk (14th Street) are around five minutes away, and many shops, restaurants, and playparks are nearby, too. You can enjoy your morning coffee with a peak of the ocean from the gorgeous front porch, make a cocktail at the in-house bar, wash your sandy feet in the outdoor shower, and use beach essentials included in your stay.

Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $409 per night

Large private home with some of the best sunset views in the area

Photo: Airbnb

The deck of this large private home is out of this world. From here, you can watch beautiful sunsets, boats sail on the intercostal waterway, and seabirds soar over nearby wetlands. The house has a chef’s kitchen, but if you’d rather eat out, some of the best restaurants in the area are a short bike ride away. Lighting is smart home enabled, and there’s a storage locker under the porch with bikes and beach gear that you can use.

Nine guests, three bedrooms
Price: $440 per night

Book NowMore like this Travel Check Out These Trending Airbnbs for Your 2024 Travels

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on August 22, 2024 00:16

August 21, 2024

Matador Creators Spotlight: Sara Iannacone on Launching a Freelance Writing Career

Matador Creators is managed by a team that works to help content creators, photographers, filmmakers, and writers break into the travel media industry and explore the world. The online hub is a place where industry professionals can come together to share tips and contacts, land press trips, and jobs.

Here, we speak with one of Matador Creators’ members: Sara Iannacone, a freelance travel writer who launched her career not long ago and is now a successful published author.

This interview has been edited for clarity and length.

Matador: Tell us a little about your background and what you feel sets you apart from other travel writers and content creators?

Sara Iannacone: I’m a travel writer and multi-passionate entrepreneur driven by a deep love for exploration and storytelling. What sets me apart from other travel writers and content creators is exactly what I’ve made myself wrong for in the past—I don’t fit into the proverbial box society expects us to fit into, and my career hasn’t been a straight upward trajectory.

For a while, I was embarrassed by how many different lives and careers I’ve had since graduating with a tourism and hospitality management degree. But now, I believe every experience I’ve had—from working in global hotels and events to building a copywriting business to getting certified in life coaching and Reiki—has set me up for success in this field. Every experience was centered around exploring, paying attention to the details, asking great questions, and presenting a meaningful final product on time, every time. All of which serves when you’re a freelance travel writer.

On a recent press trip to El Cielo Resort & Winery in Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico, I was invited to blend my own wine! I named it La Buena Vida, which means The Good Life. Photo: Sarah Iannacone

How did you initially hear about Matador Creators and land a press trip?

I’ve been a Matador reader for years, yet I had never thought of pitching my work. But, last spring, I was chatting with travel blogger Jackie Carbo right after I had returned from a trip to Mexico. She recommended I check out the Matador Creator portal because there was a call for pitches for stories about luxury hotels in Mexico.

That little push was exactly what I needed to craft my first editorial pitch, and much to my delight, it was accepted. Writing that first piece, I realized just how much I loved editorial writing, and I decided to pursue more of it after it was published.

From there, I started pitching press trip opportunities on the Matador Creators portal that aligned with my expertise and interests. This meant mostly hotel-centric press trips or anything in Latin America. I pitched five or so before I landed my first one in October 2023 and have been on a few since.

I’ve made my beat Latin American hotels, cuisine, and culture, so I get to eat a lot of incredible street food during my travels. This was a food tour in Mexico City. Photo: Sarah Iannacone

How long have you been working with travel brands and media, and how did you get started?

The short answer: about a year. The long answer is a little more complex.

When I was in school for tourism and hospitality management, I ended up in global events, hotels, and marketing for over a decade. During that time, I was the one seeking press and media coverage for my properties, events, and clients, which gave me a different perspective on the industry.

During COVID, I knew I wanted to change my path when the events industry took a hit. So, I put my marketing skills to work and started a copywriting business, which took off and allowed me to work for myself.

Then, last year, the introduction of AI and other technology impacted the copywriting industry greatly, and I wanted to start focusing on writing that couldn’t be replicated, which led me to travel writing and journalism.

This elephant sanctuary excursion in Chiang Mai, Thailand, opened my eyes to ethical and sustainable tourism, which I try to incorporate into my writing as much as possible. Photo: Sarah Iannacone

What tools do you rely on most when creating your travel content?

I’m very much a writer and not a content creator, so my tools are probably a little different than those who are super talented with social media and content creation.

There’s a fine line between being present on a trip and taking notes so you remember the little details for the article. For that reason, my phone is my only real tool.

I send myself voice notes in Voxer after an experience, and I will also take notes on the Notes app on my iPhone if I’m with a source. I just let them know I’ll take notes before so they know why I’m on my phone during an experience. Finally, if want to remember the sounds or vibe of a place, I’ll take a quick video so I can get myself back to that place mentally while I’m writing.

How has working with Matador helped your work in travel?

My work with Matador is what gave me my big break in the travel writing industry.

Through my first couple of Matador Creator trips, I was able to create really strong relationships with different public relations (PR) companies, tourism boards, hotels, guides, and editors. These relationships have all led to many other opportunities, for which I’m grateful.

Plus, other PR companies have found my articles on Matador and invited me to work with them. From that, I’ve been able to write about even more experiences for Matador and other outlets, so it’s come full circle recently.

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Sara Iannacone Travel Journalist & Life Coach (@onewanderfullife_)

What advice would you give to someone interested in becoming a travel writer or travel content creator?

Three things: create relationships, ask questions, and keep pitching through rejection.

This industry is entirely relationship-based. Once you have connections and relationships, everything starts to flow. When you’re in the room (literal or figurative) with someone from a PR company, a tourism board, other writers or creators, etc., ask questions!

Ask about their process, what other clients they work with, and how they operate. The more you know, the easier it will be to tailor your pitches to address all the important points, which ultimately will get them accepted.

Initially, it can be discouraging when you’re getting a no or radio silence with every pitch. I’ve heard many people quitting before they catch their big break because it was too difficult to handle so much rejection. Just know that the rejection or lack of response means nothing about you or the quality of your work. With the right timing and pitch, you’ll land your first gig, and it’s a snowball effect from there. Be patient. It’s worth it.

In your opinion, what are some of the biggest misconceptions or challenges about being a travel writer or content creator?

I think the biggest misconception is that you’re just on vacation all the time. Press trips are packed with activities, and it can be difficult to manage deadlines and client work while you’re on a trip. Often, you’ll get the itineraries pretty close to your actual departure date (we’re talking days in advance, not weeks), so it can be difficult to plan and manage your workflow.

Making travel writing profitable when freelancing and not working in-house at a publication is also challenging. You’re most likely not going to become a millionaire. I like to say you get paid more in experiences. This can be pretty incredible but hard as well. Most of the time, your expenses are covered, but you’ll still have to pay for parking at the airport or miscellaneous items. This adds up when you’re only getting paid $200-$400 per article on average. It becomes a volume game to make money, and that’s a lot of work that oftentimes can lead to burnout quickly.

A lot of freelance travel writers I know also do freelance copywriting work and/ or have another business to make ends meet. I have a life coaching and Reiki business that supplements my income so I can continue to do travel writing and cover the associated costs without having to hustle 24/7 to get articles and pitches picked up. It makes it more fun when you can take a bit of the financial pressure off in other ways that fill your cup, too.

What are a few recent stories you’re particularly proud of?

”Seafood, Sustainability, and Sunsets: the Basics of Baja California Sur, Mexico” for Matador Network: I fell in love with Baja California Sur on this trip, and it was an honor to write about such an unrivaled destination. There was something about the guides who showed me the area, the individuals who hosted me, and the unimaginable landscapes and scenery that made this place feel like one of the most special in the world. I think everyone should experience it once in their lifetime, and I hope this article inspires people to visit and explore it for themselves. No lie, I still dream of this trip every single week almost eight months later; it was life-changing.

”Traveling With Depression: The Strategies That Help Me Make the Most of Every Trip” for Conde Nast Traveler: Writing about the intersection of mental health and travel is a top priority for me. Mental health struggles have been a part of my story, but I’ve made sure that they don’t define me or hold me back from what I want to do—especially when it comes to travel. I want to inspire others who may be struggling to continue to chase after their dreams, even on the hard days. While I’ve written about my story before in smaller publications, writing this for Condé Nast Traveler was huge for me in terms of vulnerability and impact.

”We paid $781 a night to stay at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico. These 6 things made our weeklong trip an excellent value” for Business Insider: This was the biggest publication I’ve pitched to date in terms of monthly readers, and I got my first pitch accepted. It was the first time I felt like I had mastered the art of pitching, and it challenged me with a new style of writing, as Business Insider’s voice and style are super different from other publications.

More like this Travel Matador Creators Spotlight: Alexa Moore on Breaking Into Today's Travel Creator Industry

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on August 21, 2024 10:24

New European Sleeper Train Route to Venice Lets You Cross Five Countries Overnight

Train travel has been growing in popularity for the past couple of years and there’s no sign showing that this trend is going to stop any time soon. According to Eurail, the big boss of train travel in Europe, “more than 1,237,000 Interrail and Eurail Passes were sold in 2023, a 25 percent growth from 2022.” To satisfy the ever-growing demand for rail travel, new train operators are popping up and offering new exciting routes, especially crowd-pleasing overnight routes. That’s the case of rail operator European Sleeper which launched in May 2023.

Photo: European Sleeper

European Sleeper initially offered one night route between Brussels and Berlin via Antwerp, Rotterdam, and Amsterdam. In March 2024, the route expanded to include Dresden and Prague. European Sleeper’s Good Night Train now runs three times per week between Brussels and Prague (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays), and three times per week between Prague and Brussels (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.) The exact schedule is available here.

Starting in February 2025, European Sleeper will once again increase its offerings by launching a new seasonal route between Brussels and Venice via the Italian Alps. The 15-hour-long rail service will launch on February 5, 2025 and operate twice weekly through March to accommodate travelers during the winter sports season and the Venice Carnival.

While a tentative schedule for this new route has been published, it remains subject to changes. Bookings, however, will open on September 1, 2024.

European Sleeper offers three types of accommodation on board its train: Sleepers with three beds in one compartment (the most comfortable and the most expensive); Couchettes with six or five berths in one compartment; and Seats which can accommodate six sitting passengers in one compartment (the least comfortable and the cheapest.)

Sleeper accommodation on board European Sleeper's Good Night Train. Photo: European Sleeper

Couchette accommodation on board European Sleeper's Good Night Train. Photo: European Sleeper

Photo: European Sleeper

European Sleeper recently announced that, starting in September, its train will be equipped with a dining car, allowing travelers to enjoy a meal or two during the long overnight journeys.

We finally did it! From September, European Sleeper will be one of the very few night trains in Europe equipped with a dining car! Thanks to our dedicated investors, our highly anticipated dining car is now a reality!

#thegoodnighttrain #connectingeuropebynight pic.twitter.com/TNzn3kqIxB

— European Sleeper (@EuropeanSlpr) May 16, 2024

While a very recent rail operator, European Sleeper’s routes are included in Eurail/interrail Passes which covers train travel in 33 countries in Europe. Eurail/interrail Passes include many night trains in Europe, including the Caledonian Sleeper that runs between London and several cities in Scotland, the Santa Claus Express night train, which runs from Helsinki to Rovaniemi in Finland, and many more.

The newly announced Eurostar Snow Train, another seasonal rail route, will also take passengers to the Alps this coming winter, however, it will only run from London through France, and all the way to the French Alps. The Eurostar Snow Train is not a sleeper train but a high-speed day train.

More like this Travel The Definitive Packing List for a Journey on Sleeper Train

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on August 21, 2024 09:52

The Future of Road Trip Vehicles Is Here – and It Looks as Cool as It Drives

For decades, even until today, the Volkswagen Vanagon and other bus models have been a common sight on America’s highways. They’ve carried generations of hippies, rock bands, dirtbags, and even families across the country, and become an iconic symbol of the freewheeling lifestyle gained by spending time on the road. Now, to meet the age of electric vehicles, Volkswagen is bringing a modern take on the bus to the United States – The ID.Buzz, sure to be the coolest road trip vehicle at any campsite.

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz injects a dose of nostalgia the often futuristic world of electric vehicles. Its spacious, comfortable interior is designed for stretching out and enjoying the scenery – perfect for campsites and ski resort parking lots. It’s quiet ride and touch-screen display, along with the ability to include Harmon Kardon speakers – is perfect for tunes. The car will charge quickly from 20 percent to 80 percent at DC fast chargers. Plus, imagine the heads turning cruise in this iconic design reimagined for the electric age.

What’s coolest about this van — aside from its specs — is that it brings a new style to electric vehicles. Gone are the days of EVs only being “city cars,” and long gone is the myth of range anxiety. The ID.Buzz is proof that EVs can be stylistically diverse without sacrificing function, and that nostalgia can play a role in the future of road trips. All of this with plenty of space to bring everything you need for an extended trip.

Scroll through this gallery for a look at the new ID.Buzz:

Photo: James Lipman, courtesy of Volkswagen

Photo courtesy of Volkswagen

The all-electric microbus will be available in late 2024, starting at $59,995. That’s certainly a lot for a vehicle, and the ID.Buzz won’t qualify for federal tax rebates because it’s assembled outside the United States. But, according to Elecktrek, the automaker will likely offer extensive leasing deals and dealership options that seek to offset the lack of federal buying assistance.

You can opt for the “Dune” version if you’re a fan of the series, with its bright and otherworldly interior. “Copper” and “Moonlight” versions will also be on offer. Rear-wheel-drive options have an EPA estimated range of 234 miles, with all-wheel-drive trims at 231 miles. Whichever version you opt for, it’s sure to be the grooviest car on the road.

More like this Travel Rivian Opens First-of-Its-Kind EV Charging Center and Hub in California, Releases New Travel Kitchen

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on August 21, 2024 08:59

Arc’teryx Summer Hiking Gear Will Actually Get You Through All Four Seasons

In Scotland, we often experience weather conditions from all four seasons in one day. This can make planning outdoor sports feel like a military operation. If you let the weather dictate your plans, you’ll never leave the house. So this summer, my husband James and I tested some of Arc’teryx’s summer hiking gear to see if the innovative tech would stand up to gale-force wind and pouring rain and understand if the brand’s essentials are worth the investment. The three items — high-rise utility leggings, the Beta lightweight jacket, and the Cerium Hybrid hooded jacket — exceeded our expectations and are now family favorites and go-to grabs for all our outdoor adventures. In fact, we’ve argued more over who can wear the Beta jacket than who’s emptying the dishwasher.

We hope you love the Arc’teryx summer hiking gear we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to purchase. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Arc’teryx Essent High-Rise Utility Leggings

Photo: James Gavin

Arc’teryx’s Essent Utility Leggings are an outdoor essential. I use them for running, in the gym, on hikes, you name it.

They are high-waisted, which is a must for me because I like that support and butter-soft feel. I have these in black, so I can’t offer insight into whether or not they show sweat in the lighter colors — but in my experience, I’ve not come across a legging where that isn’t the case.

I also only invest in leggings with a side pocket. I’ve become so used to doing sports with my cell phone secured against my leg that I don’t think I’d enjoy a workout without it now. There’s also a 360 degree stretch-mesh waistband pocketing. I don’t use this, but I can see how it would be useful for snack bars or valuables on a long hike.

Price: $140

Katie Scott Aiton

Buy Now

Arc’teryx Beta Lightweight Jacket

Photo: James Gavin

I had initially planned to use this jacket just as a lightweight waterproof I could throw in my bag when hiking up and flying off hills on paragliding trips. However, its use has far exceeded my initial expectations.

The Beta Lightweight Jacket weighs just 340 grams, and indeed, it feels light, but it is still tough and durable, not flimsy at all. I have had the jacket rolled and stuffed into a rucksack and crammed into a heavily packed paragliding kit multiple times, and so far, it shows no sign of damage or wear.

I recently spent some of the summer traveling the North West coast of Scotland, and, in typical fashion, a few of those days were met with torrential rain. On went the Beta Lightweight, and as it was a rare warm Scottish summer, over tee shirt only. I was impressed.

The jacket definitely kept me dry, as I would have expected it to. However, it was comfortable, light, and, importantly for me, breathable. I have had previous bad experiences with other Gore-Tex brands where, although it will keep the rain out, you end up soaked in sweat anyway because the jacket just traps the moisture.

Another feature I really like about this jacket is the hood adjustment system. It took me a little while to figure out how to adjust correctly, but once I had cracked it, what a difference it makes to be able to have a hood that fits comfortably and isn’t blowing around or falling over your face. The hood is designed to be helmet compatible, so with no adjustment is very roomy, but after adjusting, I was able to achieve a very comfortably snug fit that kept the rain out without restricting my vision or becoming uncomfortable. This, combined with the adjustable velcro cuffs, kept out any stray water even through the heaviest downpours.

The build of this waterproof is, as I had expected from a brand like Arc’teryx, of very high quality. I could find no loose threads or uneven seams, and this is still the case after a month of heavy use. The fabric feels great, and the taped seams for the zippers are excellent.

On the topic of zippers, there are two front pockets with taped zippers, an internal chest pocket, and armpit zippers for extra ventilation.

Arc’teryx states that this product is Fair Trade certified. The Gore-Tex material they use is PFC-free, has a reduced carbon footprint, and is laminated to a bio-based nylon face made with fibers derived from plants. So, for the environmentally conscientious shopper, it’s worth considering.

This jacket has quickly become a workhorse jacket for me. Whether it’s out on the hills or just taking the bins out in the rain, I’ve been glad to have this on my back.

Price: $500

James Gavin

Buy Now

Arc’teryx Cerium Hybrid Hoody

Photo: James Gavin

The Cerium Hybrid Hoody by Arc’teryx is part of the brand’s recent performance collection. It’s ideal for variable weather conditions. What I love most about this jacket is that it’s an excellent base layer and is well-built.

The comfortable down hoody is feather-light, well-insulated, and has exceptional airflow. Thanks to the 850 fill-power grey goose down, it keeps your core warm. And if the sun comes out, there’s a handy stash bag in the pocket, so you can quickly reduce it down and put it in your day pack.

It also fits perfectly. I have a medium size, which even fits over a down gilet if I need it for an outer shell. It’s loose enough on my frame (I’m a size 6), and I prefer it that way.

We never shy away from outdoor sports if the weather is not favorable. So, having a multi-functional layer — I wear mine for running, hiking, biking in the wind, rain, and on early cold mornings — is vital.

Price: $300

Katie Scott Aiton

Buy NowMore like this Travel This Small and Stylish Wallet Keeps My Dual-Country Lifestyle Organized

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on August 21, 2024 04:32

August 20, 2024

The New European Border Security System Means You Won’t Get a Stamp

The borders of the European Union are toughening up and it’s bad news for stamp collectors.

In the current border crossing system, non-EU, visa-exempt travelers go through an immigration check by border agents who stamp their passport with their entry date when they come into the Union, and with their exit date when they come out. For those who travel around the European Union, even if they visit all 27 countries, it is the only stamps they get. But soon, even those will be a thing of the past.

Starting November 10, the EU’s new Entry/Exit system (EES) will require that non-EU, visa-exempt travelers (like US travelers) go through a self-service kiosk where they will answer questions about their visit, scan their passport, give their fingerprints, and get their faces scanned. From there, they will move on to a border control agent who may or may not ask further questions and may or may not grant them entry.

Because all the information about entry and exit dates will be electronically recorded, border agents won’t stamp passports any longer — “unless exceptions apply,” says the official website of the European Union.

Note that travelers who refuse to have their face scanned and their fingerprints taken will be denied entry.

It’s unlikely that every single border in the Union will be equipped with self-service kiosks starting November 10, 2024, but they are coming and the days of the stamps are numbered.

The EES is meant to prevent criminals, and those using fake identities and passports from entering the Union. It will also prevent overstayers (those who stayed more than 90 days in a period of 180 days) from reentering.

Travelers who need to know how many days they have left on their 90-day allowance, can ask border agents upon entry or exit, use the equipment at their disposal at some of the border crossings, or calculate it themselves by using the European Commission online short-stay calculator. Soon, an EES online tool will allow travelers to check the number of days their are still allowed to stay on the territory of European countries much faster.

Upon the launch of the system in November, longer waiting times than normal at the borders are to be expected so arm yourselves with patience and don’t schedule a tight connection.

The new EES is not the only change that travelers to the European Union will have to deal with in the next few months: The ETIAS travel authorization is finally launching in the first part of 2025.

The long-awaited ETIAS travel authorization will be required from non-EU, visa-exempt travelers from 60 countries (including the US) to enter . ETIAS travel authorization will be valid for a period of three years or until the traveler’s passport expires.

Travelers will need to apply for their personal ETIAS online via the official ETIAS website or the official ETIAS mobile app, and pay a fee of €7 ($7.80), ahead of their travels.

More like this Travel Safety Every Passport Stamp That Can Ruin Your Travels

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on August 20, 2024 12:34

Taking to the Skies: a Pilgrimage to Make ‘the Freshest Brewed Beer on the Market’

How far would your favorite brewery go to make the “freshest beer on the market?” In Denver, Colorado, aviation-themed brewery FlyteCo Brewing is taking this challenge more seriously than any brewing business before—traveling nearly 400 miles roundtrip in a single day to transport “fresh-off-the-bine” hops back to its brewery to begin the process of making this adventure a reality.

FlyteCo is owned by pilot-turned-brewer Eric Serani, head brewer Jason Slingsby, and Morgan O’Sullivan — a team that is seemingly unmatched when combining a passion for aviation and adventure with beer-making mastery.

When I had the recent opportunity to join their team and a crew of airplane enthusiasts to embark on the annual “Fresh Hop Flight” pilgrimage flight, I jumped (10,000-plus feet high into the air via a four-person aircraft headed to Southwest Colorado).

How FlyteCo Brewing gets “fresh-off-the-bine” hops people in hops farm

Walking through Billy Goat Hops Farm. Photo: Molly O’Brien

This experience meant the opportunity to take a small passenger airplane to Montrose (a 4.5-hour drive from Denver but just an hour flight) and visit a local hop farm to gather fresh-picked hops that we’d then take back to their Denver brewery and immediately use to brew the “freshest beer on the market.”

But it’s important to note that this annual trek is not easy to plan or navigate. Summer weather in Colorado (especially around mountain landscapes) can be quite unpredictable. The team plans for this experience knowing they’re likely to make the journey sometime in mid-late August when the hops are at their freshest, but ultimately, everyone is at Mother Nature’s mercy regarding the safety of taking the flight. Although I had a general idea of when to plan for the trip (if we were actually lucky enough to make it happen), I didn’t get an official greenlight I’d be joining the journey until roughly 36 hours before we took to the skies.

On the morning of, my alarm woke me at 5:30 a.m. from a very light (I was excited) sleep to drive to the Erie airport for our 6:30 a.m. meetup time. As I was on my way to the airport, I’ll admit I was a bit apprehensive (not because I am afraid of flying, in fact, I enjoy it so much that I think I was actually a bird) but because I had not yet even met any of these people except for a quick, kind check-in message from Serani the day before the flight to ensure I knew where and when to go. And I was about to spend a whole day on this almost intimately exclusive, adventurous journey with them.

I didn’t want to crash their party. Did I deserve to be taking up one of those rare, coveted seats in one of their small airplanes? But I was ultimately won over by my curiosity and the opportunity to explore such a unique adventure.

Up in the air man flying plane

“Colorado is unattractive,” said no one ever. Photo: Molly O’Brien

The sun was just rising over the mountains on the horizon as I pulled into the parking lot of the small municipal airport about 30 minutes north of downtown Denver.

I knew I had made the right decision as soon as I arrived and stepped onto the tarmac, to be greeted by Serani (he’s been flying for 19 years)—who I could tell was absolutely ecstatic about the opportunity to combine his passions of flying and fermentation. He was generously enthusiastic about sharing the adventure.

“It’s a pretty great day,” Serani proclaimed as we squeezed into the compact aircraft and took off just after 7 a.m. “We get to fly airplanes and make beer.”

I watched as small airplanes began to touch down from other destinations across Colorado to join us on this journey, landing on the runway and taxiing to park in a neat line. FlyteCo organizes this event each year, and other pilots in the Denver aviation community are invited to join the special experience. It gives longtime fans of FlyteCo the chance to get a behind-the-scenes peek at everything that goes into making the beer (and is great for keeping their skills as pilots sharp).

Origins of an epic collaboration man loading hops into plane

Loading the hops. Photo: Molly O’Brien

The annual gathering dates back to 2019 when founder and owner of Bruz Beers, Ryan Evans, was camping at another Colorado hops farm and sent Serani photos of the nearby airport, asking if he’d want to fly up and brew a fresh hop beer.

“Two weeks later, we flew out, and brewed the beer we called ‘Hop Is My Copilot,’” Serani says.“We’ve kept the collaboration beer alive every year since then.”

In 2020 Serani began reaching out to other pilots to join in on the fun experience, and the team has since made Billy Goat Hop Farm their spot. The team still considers this beer a collaboration with Bruz (but the Bruz crew couldn’t come this year since they were on their annual trip to Belgium). After a quick schedule briefing and pre-flight safety check, our group of 20 people—which consisted of FlyteCo folks, media members, and local pilots and fellow beer aficionados—spread out across eight airplanes and took to the skies.

“We didn’t need so many airplanes to transport the hops,” says Serani.” “It was more so a community experience for the other pilots who joined on the adventure. Flying is a perishable skill, and planning and executing complicated flights in small airplanes is a great way for pilots to fight complacency.”

Back up in the air

Flying over Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater

The flight to Montrose took about an hour, during which we spied Colorado’s diverse geographic landscapes from above and soared through the narrow mountain passes. Serani warned us not to worry when he banked at a 45-degree angle while expertly navigating through a more precarious-looking mountain pass—he assured us it’s part of the flying technique to keep the aircraft stable.

I gazed out at the dense thickets of trees, which normally would present themselves as a thick, dark forest, but now appeared unintimidating from our perch in the sky—soft tips of a fuzzy blanket spread out across the rolling hills. It was a potent reminder of all the powerful beauty the Earth can showcase and produce for us—and a great taste of what was to come, when we’d make it to the hop farm and literally “taste” the fruits and flowers of the land.

Hoppy trails hops in warehouse

Hops and more hops. Photo: Molly O’Brien

We landed in Montrose around 8 a.m. and shuttled out to the independently-owned and sustainability-focused Billy Goat Hop Farm. Billy Goat is unique in its location—most hops are traditionally grown in the Pacific Northwest, in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.

Once on the farm, we took a tour of the facility’s 32 acres led by owner Audrey Gehlhausen. We wandered through the neat lines of trellised land that grow a variety of hops on 57 miles of cable. In May, each of the 60,000 threads of coconut coir is strung to the cable on top of the 18-foot-tall trellis and tied by hand. In fact, everything is done by hand here. I had no idea there were so many different varieties of hops. Billy Goat Hop Farm grows dozens of types of hops, from comet to magnum to chinook, nugget, crystal, and more. We learned from Gehlhausen that it’s a quick process from tying to picking. The hop bines (not vines) grow nearly a foot a day in July before they’re ready for harvest in mid-August. “You can almost literally watch them grow,” Gehlhausen laughs, “they want to climb.”

Growing and processing the hops is an extremely calculated, scientific process that requires hours of physical manual labor and a whole lot of care for the craft.

While we strolled through the lines of bines, I relished breathing in the fresh, earthy scent of ripe hop plants. We picked a few hop flowers off the bine and tasted them—not by biting into them, but by lightly touching the tip of our tongue to the inside—and it was very bitter (almost as if you were to bite straight into and take a chunk out of the strongest IPA you’ve ever tasted).

“What does it taste like?” one of the other media members on the trip asked me on camera for her video. “Hoppy!” I exclaimed, and we both laughed.

After the bines are chopped down individually and fed into their “Wolf picker” (which separates the hops from their bine), they’re dried, cooled, pelletized, and packaged for transport. But on our trip, our main purpose wasn’t to take home packaged product—it was to bag and take home fresh hops. Around 10:30 a.m., we packed two hefty 20-pound burlap sacks of hop flowers into our SUVS, and returned to the Montrose airport to fly back to Denver to begin brewing this epically innovative beer.

A pilgrimage for a passion for beer making woman on tarmac

The author ready for takeoff. Photo courtesy Molly O’Brien

Watching the crew stuff hop sacks into the rear of our airplane, I understood why Serani had messaged me the day before our journey to ensure I wouldn’t need to bring any extra load of equipment to chronicle the experience; we needed the space and room for reserving weight that’d fit the previous cargo—our bags of fresh hops.

We filed one by one back into the skies, with the inside of our airplane smelling heavenly. We took a different flight path back to Denver since the turbulent mountain afternoon weather had begun to roll in, making the winds stronger and the ride a bit more bumpy. Sailing over well-known points of interest like Red Rocks Amphitheater and pointing out beloved landmarks like Pikes Peak off in the distance, we cruised back into the Denver metropolitan area in less time than it took to get to Montrose, riding the tailwinds.

Back at the brewery

After touching down in Erie and processing what felt like much longer than a few hours of adventure, it was time to transport these hops to the brewery to begin making this year’s “Hop is my Copilot” brew.

I drove back to urban Denver and met up with the team at FlyteCo’s Tennyson Street location, where the beer is brewed. Their FlyteCo Tower location is super cool, too – it’s a brewery, bar, restaurant, and entertainment venue all in one—located inside an authentic former air traffic control tower. There’s three levels, three full bars, and an outdoor patio in its 25,000 square feet of on-site space.

But the OG spot on Tennyson Street is where the brewing magic actually happens brewer adding hops to tank

Brewing the beer. Photo: Molly O’Brien

Upon arrival, the inside of the brewery felt as if a family came together to make and serve a holiday meal. One of the co-owner’s children was asking for quarters to play the arcade games in the corner, as head brewer Jason Slingsby stirred in the inaugural slop of hops.

I looked around and realized I enjoyed being here because breweries like this are what the craft beer industry was founded on and, disappointingly, struggles to maintain today due to a slowly altering attitude toward craft beer—and alcohol, in general, among the younger generations. It was, and here remains, a community boasting an atmosphere saying “everyone is welcome.”

FlyteCo’s Tennyson location offers multiple communities a space to gather and share a love of aviation and craft beer. As soon as you walk in, you’ll spy the metal model fuselage that was created true to size—a scale replica of a Boeing 737—and yes, you can sit underneath while you drink your beer. The walls are adorned with decor like unique aviation patches, and the arcade games chirp nostalgic jingles off in the corner, making you feel like a kid again (while also being old enough to drink a solid beer).

In fact, in the classic spirit of innovation, this location just started to offer a revolutionary “membership program” dubbing itself a “FlyteCoworking” space—similar to a normal coworking space (but better—because “beer”). It’ll operate as a private, limited member “third space” (the space you go to other than home and work) Monday-Friday from opening until 2 p.m. (11 a.m. on Friday) when it will transition into its normal, open-to-the-public brewery model.

There’s a sign inside that says the brewery just invested in upgrading its Wi-Fi. Members will enjoy special prices for beverages and a safe, social space to work outside of home. Personally, as a travel writer, I work at coffee shops nearly every other day (even when I’m home, in Denver), so why not try working somewhere where something a bit *stronger* is brewed (they’ll, of course, also serve their members coffee).

Blending two passions to brew a great beer

The fresh hop flight experience was unforgettable—but even for those who can’t embark on such a unique, once-in-a-lifetime adventure, there’s still the beer to be enjoyed. Once you stop into FlyteCo and have a conversation with any of their bartenders, owners who frequently spend time on-site, or indulge in one of their “flytes” (or a pint), you’re bound to “land” here again the next time you’re in Denver.

More like this Wellness What It’s Like to Visit Denver’s First Craft Beer Spa

Before you even buy your concert tickets Before you leave to your destination Before you make your way to the venue What to wear and carry with you to the concert At the venue

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on August 20, 2024 12:03

Traveling For a Concert? Follow This Expert Checklist For a Seamless Trip

Gig-tripping is a brand-new term used to describe a concept that’s not new at all: Traveling to attend a concert. After all, in 1969, hundreds of thousands of people road tripped to Woodstock to attend the iconic festival. And since then, just about everyone who lives outside of a big urban center and loves a good show has probably done it, too. Even I, who prefer to avoid crowds and tend to not like loud music, have done it. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve driven the many hours that separate my rural hometown from Vancouver, BC, Canada, to see Florence and the Machine, Arctic Monkeys, and Snoop Dog, among others, live. That said, the trend of gig-tripping, which took off dramatically with Taylor Swift’s ongoing and colossal The Eras Tour, is a little more involved than just driving for a few hours to a venue. Modern gig-trippers know no obstacles. They tend to travel cross-country or even internationally to see the artists they love so much, building entire epic trips around musical performances.

Of course, gig-tripping, especially when it involves going abroad, requires some logistics, but it’s hardly insurmountable. Matador asked four expert concert-goers, from radio show hosts to entertainment industry veterans, wandering professional DJs, and self-professed music nerds for the low-down on the best strategies to adopt to create the smoothest, most enjoyable gig-trip possible. Here’s what they said.

Before you even buy your concert tickets

Check your bank account

While Ralph Sutton, a radio show host with decades of experience hosting music festival and cruise concerts, recommends to fly by the seat of your pants and “book the concert first, then worry about everything else,” it may not be the way to go for everyone.

If you’re more cautious than spontaneous, before you purchase your concert tickets, think about the time and funds you’ll need to make it all happen. While the ticket itself might be cheap, there’s a lot more to take into account, including flights, accommodations, meals, etc.

When asked for his thoughts on gig-tripping, Stephen Glicken, CEO of the live entertainment company Project Admission and avid concert-goer, explains, “In my experience it is often more expensive, but worth it. Tickets may sometimes be more affordable but you have other costs that add up.”

Chris Oberman, a professional DJ and travel blogger, echoes Glicken’s thoughts. “While it requires time, preparation, and money, attending a concert or festival in person is a unique experience. When you’re attending a show you’re part of the whole vibe, you’ll meet friendly and like-minded people who all share the same passion for the same type of music and artists.”

Think beyond the concert

If you’re traveling a long way, you’ll want to make the trip count. Consider the destination and what else you might wish to do, see, and try out there besides the show.

For Glicken, who recently traveled from Tokyo to Singapore to attend Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour, a concert is a great way to anchor a trip. “You have a target that will likely in and of itself make the trip worthwhile, and then you have the chance to visit and see a city.” Glicken had seen Taylor Swift’s show multiple times prior to his trip to Singapore, yet he says that it was “100% worth it to experience the show with a different crowd and then use it as an excuse to experience the culture and food in Singapore.”

Consider the venue

Photo: Christian Bertrand/Shutterstock

For Oberman, it’s also important to consider the concert venue itself before you make a booking. “The music and the artists are my main motivations, sometimes coupled with the uniqueness of the location,” he says in an email conversation. “For instance, I’ve attended the Melt festival in Germany several times because it is held at an outdoor industrial museum with enormous excavators, an incredibly unique setting.”

While you might not be as much into heavy machinery as Oberman, take the time to look at the venues the artist will visit during their tour. Some may be more intimate, some more grand, and some better located than others, all of which can greatly enhance your experience.

Before you leave to your destination

Save your hard-earned dollars

Mariana Montes Mendoza, music lover and local tour guide and travel writer at Vibe Adventures tour agency advises that once you’ve purchased your ticket and booked your trip, you need to keep an eye on the state of your finances. “I prepare my budget by saving many months before, so that I would not be limited and be able to buy merchandise or eat without being so worried about money. If I’m going to travel that far, I should take the opportunity to get the most I can from that place.”

Arrive early at your destination

One thing all the experts we talked to agreed upon when it came to gig-tripping is this: Don’t show up at the destination on the day of the concert. Flight delays can easily raise your anxiety and lead you to miss the event. Planning to arrive one or two days before the show will give you some buffer time and will allow you to rest from the journey and find your bearings in the city. If you arrive less than 24 hours before the show, Oberman recommends that you book an accommodation close to the venue so you can rest until the last moment.

The same goes for the day of your departure. Don’t leave the day after the show. Give yourself a day or two to recuperate and bask in the joy that the concert gave you.

Don’t be that traveler

Sutton also warns about checking out the rules and regulations of the country you are going to, which is something you should do every time you travel, no matter the reason. For example, if you’re planning to drink before the show, check out the legal drinking age, the public inebriation rules, and the open-container law at your destination. Sutton explains that one of his friend didn’t do his due diligence and paid a high price for it. “[He] was leaving a country that was weed-friendly — into one that wasn’t — and got arrested. Just don’t be that person, Google the rules!”

Before you make your way to the venue

Make a plan

Once you’ve arrived at your destination and you’ve dumped your bags at your accommodation, take 10 minutes to look at Google Maps and research public transportation options to the concert. Ideally, you’d have booked an accommodation from where you can easily get to and from the venue, but if you haven’t, now is the time to sit down and do some much-needed research.

Check out when the doors to the venue open and decide when you want to arrive. From there, look at how long it will take to get to the venue by whatever means you chose, and make sure that you have a back-up option — if you miss one bus, it’s good to know there’s another one coming in the next 10 minutes. It is also crucial that you know how long the show will be, as well as how and when you’re going to get back to your accommodation. You don’t want to be stuck without a way to get back to your place in the dead of night in a strange city.

Discuss all those options with those with whom you’re traveling, agree upon a schedule, and write down the various transportation options and their time. Better safe than sorry.

When to arrive at the venue

As far as the topic of when to arrive at the venue is concerned, the experts we talked to were almost unanimous: two hours early is a good amount of time to explore the venue, locate the bathrooms, lockers, and the emergency exits, look at the merch, purchase food and drinks, and find your seat before the lights go down without stressing out.

Check your tickets

Oberman urges those who gig-trip in groups to take the time to take a close look at their concert tickets before they leave for the venue. “If your friends have different types of tickets, such as a day pass instead of a weekend pass, or guest list versus VIP, they might need to enter through different gates,” he explains.

Research the rules of the venue

All the experts we talked to are adamant about one thing: Before you pack all the things you need to take with you to the show, check out what you’re allowed to bring into the venue. Some events/venues don’t allow backpacks, large cameras, food, glass bottles, etc. You don’t want to be turned back just because you didn’t take five minutes to look it up.

Make the most of your phone

You always have your phone with you so you might as well use it to its full extent. Sutton recommends that you take a picture of your tickets, as well as anything you may need, including your ID, the bus/metro schedule, your parking emplacement, etc. Oberman suggests that you “check if the concert has an app or website to download the schedule in case of poor reception at the venue.”

What to wear and carry with you to the concert

Photo: ComposedPix/Shutterstock

Everyone’s got their must-have, but the staples according to the experts we interviewed are:

A charged-up cell phone for photos, videos, but also to contact your friends if you lose them, access Google Maps if you get lost, etc.A power bank to ensure your phone is always usableEar plugs to save your hearingComfortable shoes so you can be on your feet for several hours and keep dancingWeather-appropriate clothing. If the venue is outdoors, you’ll need a rain jacket, waterproof shoes, a waterproof bag, sunscreen, and a hatPants with zipped pockets to keep your belongings safeAn IDWipes to stay clean even if the venue’s bathrooms are gross and lack toilet paperA Sharpie. “You never know who you might bump into and want an autograph!,” explains Sutton.Protein-heavy snacks like energy bars to keep you goingWater to keep you hydratedAt the venue

If you are attending the show with a group, set up a meeting point for when the concert ends or if someone gets separated — the merch stand, for example. Some venues don’t have good cell phone reception and you might not be able to text or call your friends.

If you’re going to a festival, you can do the same thing. Oberman explains that whenever he goes to a festival with a group of friends they always use ‘left-front’ as their gathering place. “When you’re looking at the stage everyone will be at the left in the front, at any stage. Having this same meeting point at every festival stage can definitely help to keep the group together.”

More like this Travel An Impulsive Trip Abroad and Impromptu Concert Resulted Into a 15-Year Romance