Matador Network's Blog, page 125
August 16, 2024
The Best Big Bear Airbnbs Near the Slopes, Lake, and Town
Swallowed up by the San Bernardino National Forest, Big Bear is an outdoor recreation hub in Southern California. Offering over 300 days of sunshine and a rare opportunity for leaf peeping in the Golden State, Big Bear Lake is a four-season destination for alpine adventure. Cool down on the lake in summer, go biking and horse riding in shoulder season, and return in winter for California’s best skiing and boarding. Big Bear’s Airbnb scene makes it easy to experience nature’s playground. Awesome for couples and families, these private cabin rentals are steps from the lake, ski slopes, and The Village at Big Bear.
Traveling to California? Check out Matador’s California accommodations guides: These beautiful San Diego Airbnbs put you close to the beach and downtown The best 14 Airbnbs near Yosemite National Park 11 magical Airbnbs near Redwoods and Sequoia National Parks 9 dreamy oceanfront Airbnbs up and down the California coast 10 soulful beach Airbnbs for the perfect SoCal yoga retreat 12 very zen Joshua Tree Airbnbs perfect for families and groups These Airbnb stays near Disneyland offer an easy group vacation These Airbnbs near Knott’s Berry Farm put you close to legendary coasters
We hope you love these Airbnb Big Bear 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.
Pet-friendly lakeside Airbnb in Big Bear
Photo: Airbnb
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Imagine the glamor of a Hollywood mansion dropped on the shores of California’s most idyllic mountain retreat. This luxurious sanctuary has a hot tub with lake panoramas, a meditation nook, and a kids’ gaming hangout. The master suite has an electric fireplace and underfloor heating in the bathroom while the other two bedrooms have cute vaulted ceilings – almost like glamping. Depending on the season, you’ll have free use of the private dock or complimentary snow sleds.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $1,308 per night
Photo: Airbnb
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This Guest Favorite Airbnb has a prime location in Big Bear close to the lakeside, ski stations, and Village restaurants. The decor and amenities is a grown-up take on summer camp with Pendleton blankets, a bunk bed that adults and kids will scrabble over, and a ping pong table in the yard. Velvet couches and spa-like bathrooms are luxe enough to impress travelers who value their creature comforts.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $461 per night
Photo: Airbnb
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Whisk your other half away for a weekend of adventure and hygge at this minimalist Airbnb for couples in Big Bear’s Boulder Bay. The lakefront and Castle Rock Trail are a stone’s throw from the cabin which sits in a remote patch of forest. Views skirt massive boulders and towering pine trees and there’s a huge deck for candlelit dining under the stars. The concrete soaking tub will see to any pulled muscles.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $378 per night
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Revel in unobscured views of the lake at this slice of lakeside heaven with half an acre of backyard. External space includes sun loungers, picnic tables, and a grill with an option to reserve the private dock. Evenings can be spent sprawled out on the sectional in front of the fire or diving into a home cooked meal whipped up in the gastro kitchen. Essential baby and toddler gear is provided at this family-friendly Airbnb and the Alpine Slide is minutes away.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $720 per night
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Let this atmospheric Airbnb near Big Bear Mountain Resort seduce you into the highlands. A sumptuous, light-filled living room and gameloft provide ample space for socializing whereas cubby hole bedrooms are designed to calm. There’s a clawfoot tub overlooking the forest and a wood burner for s’mores and scary stories. With seasonal downhill biking, golfing, and skiing on the doorstep, that hot tub is a welcome touch.
Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $546 per night
Photo: Airbnb
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This three-bedroom private cabin rental in a quiet neighborhood has a dock used for swimming, fishing, and boating – rental crafts are right around the corner. Both the architecture and interiors have a traditional feel with hefty beamed ceilings and a rustic-meets-maritime aesthetic. Huge bay windows grant panoramic views and there’s a billiards table for mellow nights in. Pets are welcome and family groups are preferred.
Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $910 per night
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Embrace the simple life and let the good times roll at this charming Airbnb in Whispering Woods. Built in the 1970s, the arched A-frame cabin has been redecorated with a modern alpine theme, a fitted kitchen, and a mezzanine reading nook. The yard is furnished with a private jacuzzi, hammocks, and bocce ball. It’s all too easy to hole up for the week but don’t miss a wander along the Alpine Pedal Path or line dancing at Wyatt’s Saloon.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $347 per night
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Lucky 7 Cabin is less than 60 seconds on foot from the breweries and emporiums of Big Bear’s charming tourist hub. This two-story home has a state-of-the-art kitchen rounded off with three coffee making options. The backyard has a hot tub, putting green, and fire pit while the lounge has shuffleboard and a record player. It’s a top choice for vacationing families and weekends with friends and not a bad place to get snowed in.
Seven guests, three bedrooms
Price: $492 per night
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Ten minutes from the lake marinas, ski slopes, and the Big Bear Village, this romantic bolthole offers privacy and convenience in California’s forested valley. The high ceiling makes the cabin feel larger yet window nooks and rich fabrics keep things cozy. Spend evenings strumming the guitars by the fire or bundled under a blanket in the movie loft. It’s tailor-made for couples although the couch can take two extra guests.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $245 per night
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Skyfall Lodge is part of the Moonridge community with ski resorts, tubing, and The Village all within a 10-minute radius. The main lounge opens out onto a large patio with a grill and a second balcony is consumed by a five-person hot tub. A separate den is equipped with video games and classic arcade consoles. Otherwise, take a screen break and rummage through the board game cupboard and let Alexa handle the evening’s soundtrack.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $312 per night
Photo: Airbnb
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Packed to the gills with snowboards, skis, bikes, and all the apparel needed for a day in the mountains, there’s no excuse not to spend every minute of your stay outdoors. When it is time to catch your breath, the lodge’s amenities include a hot tub, arcade games, pool table, and massage chair. Use the complimentary bikes to cycle to local nature reserves and grab a bite at Big Bear Village.
Eleven guests, three bedrooms
Price: $552 per night
August 15, 2024
This Tennis Ball-Themed Hotel Room Takes Bright Green (or Yellow) To Another Level
A longstanding debate has divided tennis fans: is a tennis ball green or yellow? IHG Hotels & Resorts has taken this lighthearted conversation to a new level with the creation of the “IHG Rally Room.” This over-the-top suite is available just in time for the US Open at Kimpton Hotel Eventi in New York City and Hotel Indigo Atlanta Downtown.
Photo: IHG Hotels and Resorts
The suite is boldly split into two halves: one decorated in vibrant green, the other in sunny yellow. From the mini tennis ball-filled lamp to the ball-shaped rug, every element of the room is tennis-themed (and color-coded). According to a survey conducted by the hotel group, 56 percent of Americans believe a tennis ball is yellow and 44 percent green. You and your guest can enjoy a color debate before choosing a side of the bed.
Photo: IHG Hotels and Resorts
“Whether a tennis ball is green or yellow is up to our guests to decide. We love how the “IHG Rally Room” taps into this fun conversation at a time when all eyes are on tennis during the US Open, where IHG is a proud, longstanding partner,” says Connor Smith, VP of Masterbrand & Partnerships at IHG Hotels & Resorts.
Photo: IHG Hotels and Resorts
The 2024 US Open Tennis Championships will take place from August 19 to September 8 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, New York and IHG Hotels & Resorts is offering a variety of ways for fans to celebrate.
On August 21, Kimpton Hotel Eventi in New York City will be transformed for an exclusive, invitation-only event, the Grand Slam Social with Mark Ronson. The venue will even include a pop-up installation where you can declare your allegiance to the green or yellow side of the tennis ball debate. And for those fortunate to attend the US Open, IHG’s shaded outdoor terrace bar will open from August 22 to September 8.
Photo: IHG Hotels and Resorts
If you’re interested in booking a stay in the “Rally Room,” you can do so from August 26 for a maximum of two nights. The suite will only be available for the two weeks of the US Open main draw. Email ExperienceIHG@ihg.com with enquiries.
What It’s Like to Ride First Class Trains From France to Germany, and Back
If you’re worried about climate change and vow to do as much as you can to slow down its terrible consequences, you must put your money where your mouth is. For travelers, that means flying less. While practical, affordable, and time-effective alternatives to air travel aren’t always available in the US, in Europe, they abound. That’s because the rail system throughout the continent is a vast, well-oiled machine.
Recently, I traveled from the town of St. Nazaire in Western France to the island of Rügen in the very northeast of Germany, and back. While I could have flown most of the way, I am dedicated to my climate change action pledge and therefore opted to ride the rails and use public transports for the entirety of my trip. The journey to and from Germany was long, but very comfortable, and much more scenic than I anticipated. I was lucky enough to travel in first class throughout, which although cost more, made a big difference when traveling such a long way.
My itinerary and schedule traveling by train across France and GermanyUnsurprisingly for such a lengthy journey, my itinerary (which I created via Rail Europe) consisted of many segments, some with very tight, anxiety-inducing connections. That said, despite some delays and the pre-Olympic Games sabotage on the French railway lines the day before my return trip, I caught every single one of my trains.
The outbound journey from France to GermanyThe outbound journey took around 16 hours in total and involved three high-speed trains, two regional trains, and one metro ride:
TGV from St. Nazaire, France, to Paris Montparnasse, France (two hours and 44 minutes)Metro line four from Paris Montparnasse, France, to Paris Gare du Nord, France (20 minutes)Eurostar from Paris Gare du Nord, France to Cologne Hauptbahnhof, Germany (three hours and 20 minutes)ICE from Cologne Hauptbahnhof, Germany, to Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Germany (four hours and 28 minutes)Regional train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Germany, to Greifswald, Germany (two hours and 47 minutes)Because I wanted to break up the trip with a visit of beautiful Greifswald, I took this last train was two days later:
Regional train from Greifswald, Germany, to Binz, Germany (one hour and 36 minutes)The outbound journey from Germany to FranceThe inbound journey consisted of four high-speed trains, and one metro ride. The trip from Hamburg, Germany, to St. Nazaire, France, took around 15.5 hours:
ICE from Binz, Germany, to Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, Germany (three hours and 53 minutes)I continued on my journey after a day of touring Hamburg with professional guide Thomas Kaiser and spending the night in the city’s newly opened bunker hotel: the REVERB by Hard Rock.
ICE from Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, Germany, to Mannheim, Germany (four hours and 57 minutes)TGV from Mannheim, Germany, to Paris Gare de l’Est, France (three hours and 10 minutes)Metro line four from Paris Gare de l’Est, France, to Paris Montparnasse, France (20 minutes)Paris Montparnasse, France, to St. Nazaire, France (meant to take three hours but took five hours because of the aforementioned sabotage)How much did this long European train trip cost?All my train tickets for this rail journey were purchased on June 17, 2024, i.e. around one month before my departure on July 21. Booking earlier than that, possibly three months in advance, when the bookings open, guarantees much better rates.
Price of the outbound journeyTGV from St. Nazaire, France, to Paris Montparnasse, France (€63 / $69.22)Metro line four from Paris Montparnasse, France, to Paris Gare du Nord, France (€4 / $4.39)Eurostar from Paris Gare du Nord, France, to Cologne Hauptbahnhof, Germany (€111 / $121.96)ICE from Cologne, Germany, to Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Germany (€75.49 / $82.94, including the next ride to Greifswald)Regional train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Germany, to Greifswald, GermanyRegional train from Greifswald, Germany, to Binz, Germany (€24.30 / $26.70)Total: €277.79 / $305.21
Price of the inbound journeyICE from Binz, Germany, to Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, Germany (€40.19 / $44.16)ICE from Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, Germany, to Mannheim, Germany (€179.40 / $197.11, including the next ride to Paris)TGV from Mannheim, Germany, to Paris Gare de l’Est, FranceMetro line four from Paris Gare de l’Est, France, to Paris Montparnasse, France (€4 / $4.39)Paris Montparnasse, France, to St. Nazaire, France (€95 / $104.38)Total: €318.59 / $350.04
How to save more on your train tripsThere are several ways to make this trip a lot cheaper. First, you can opt to travel in second class instead of first class, like I did. While traveling in first class can be very affordable if you book early, the longer you wait to make a reservation, the higher the price. And in my case, I certainly waited too long. Second, you can save a lot of money by purchasing a Eurail/Interrail Pass. In this particular case, I could have bought a Eurail/interrail Global Pass for four days of travel within one month for just $308. It would have covered all the trains I took during the time period I needed, but not the seat reservations for the high-speed trains. Those would have cost a little extra, but I would still have saved a lot of money.
ICE, Eurostar, TGV: Which one is the best?It’s fair to say that I’ve thoroughly tested enough high-speed trains in this epic rail journey (and during my previous experience riding the rails in Europe) to be able to rate them.
Brand new French TGV. Photo: Morgane Croissant
In term of comfort, cleanliness, and atmosphere, it’s hard to beat France’s TGV. The first-class cars offer very wide, comfortable, fabric-upholstered seats, with lots of legroom, large tray tables, and plugs, including USB ones. Single seats with no neighbors are available in all fist-class cars and are bookable in advance. It’s also extremely quiet in first class, allowing you to work, read, or sleep for hours on end without being disturbed. The TGV has two cafés on board and the food and drinks on offer are suitable for various dietary needs and affordable. The cafés staff are always very polite and helpful, making the experience even nicer. Passengers who want to save time can purchase Parisian metro tickets in the TGV cafés. The Wi-Fi on board is relatively fast and reliable.
Inside the German ICE in first class. Photos: Morgane Croissant
First class on board the German ICE, while also comfortable, is a lot less quiet than in the TGV. There were numerous families with small children sharing my car on all my ICE trips and the noise level was quite high. Single seats are available and bookable, which you should absolutely go for, but know that they are less comfortable than the TGV’s. Also, the tray tables are smaller, and there are no USB plugs. The great advantage of riding the ICE in first class is that attendants come through the car to take your order if you wish to eat or drink anything. A menu is at your disposal in the seat pocket, offering a variety of food and drinks for an affordable price. Also, every first-class passenger gets a little complimentary cookie from one of the attendants during the journey, which is a nice touch. The Wi-Fi on board was fast and dependable, allowing me to work and even stream a few episodes of Seinfeld.
Inside the Eurostar (formerly Thalys) in first class. Photo: Morgane Croissant
The Eurostar (formerly Thalys), while fine, was the least enjoyable ride of them all. There are three classes of service on board the Eurostar: Standard, Comfort, and Premium, and I was riding with a Comfort ticket in the first-class car. While very comfortable, the seats and carpet were not very clean and the cars could have done with a refresh. The legroom is decent, however, and there are regular plugs at every seat. There is a café on board with various snacks and drinks on offer. Premium passengers get a menu and a meal served at their seat. The Wi-Fi on board worked throughout the journey.
The last high-speed train of the trip, a very recent TGV, with its great tray table. Photos: Morgane Croissant
Note that the newness of the rolling stock makes a big difference in how good an experience you have on board all of these trains. Unless you do an awful lot of research, you never know if the train you’re booked on will be brand new, recently redecorated, or 15 years old. Every single TGV I rode on during this trip was different, some were duplex, some were single-storeyed, some were new, and other had a few years of use behind them.
The most scenic ride I ever took
Photo: FrankFotoFilm/Shutterstock
In the past 20 years, I have criss-crossed Europe by train. I have even traveled from Western France all the way to St Petersburg, Russia, in an incredibly rural three-day journey. But never have I had been treated to more beautiful scenery than on my no-frills regional train ride from Berlin to Greifswald. For nearly three hours, we chugged across the open countryside of Northern Germany where the stations are tiny and old-fashioned, and the wildlife abounds. From my window seat, I spotted dozens of deer, storks, and rabbits, among others, all going about their business in the fields, undisturbed. The many wind turbines present in the region add a air of peacefulness to the scenery, and the large numbers of bicycles on the nearby trails made it all the more quaint. I doubt the commuters from Berlin pay attention to what’s going on outside any longer, but for me, this is one for the books.
How to prepare for a long train tripThere are few ways to make a long train trip less stressful, more enjoyable, and more affordable:
If you’re traveling alone and want peace and quiet, book a single seat in advance.In general, if you can, avoid connections of less than 30 minutes. Delays happen frequently and can ruin the best laid plans.Review your itinerary prior to departure and look closely at the dates, times, destinations and how long you have for each connection.If a connection is tight, ask the train attendant the platform number for your next train so you can make a beeline for it as soon as the train stops. Also, always be ready by the exit door with all your belongings so you can be the first passenger out and run to catch your next train.Alway sit at your assigned seat rather than at a random one. It will prevent a lot of shuffling around in a tight space.Bring some water and food with you. That way you won’t have to spend your hard-earned money at the onboard cafés or at the train stations, and you’ll have something to snack on when hunger strikes, no matter where it happens.Make sure to take a book, download some episodes of your favorite series on your phone, and bring headphones. While looking at the scenery out the window is a good way to pass the time, a little manmade entertainment will make the trip go faster.Prioritize using the bathroom on board the trains rather than in the train stations. It’s easier to use them when your luggage is safely tucked away.Always tag your luggage with your name and phone number.Take your charger with you and make sure your phone is charged at all times, especially if that’s where you keep your train tickets. You can print them out for safety, too. Attendants will require to see them on every leg of your journey.Wear comfortable clothes in which you can take a nap. Avoid tight jeans and bulky sweaters. Layers are best as the onboard temperature varies widely from one rail operator to the next, and even from one train to another.More like thisTravelIs a Eurail Pass Worth It? A Record 1.2 Million Travelers Thought so in 2023.
Major Cities in Spain Are Taking Measures to Ban Short-Term Rentals Entirely
Spain sees the second highest number of international tourists annually in Europe, only after France. Some projections show Spain’s tourism numbers surpassing France by 2040. Yet for the residents of Spain, the number of tourists has become a bit too much.
Anti-tourist protestors with water guns took to the streets this summer in Barcelona, and the city’s tourism agency changed it’s slogan and tourism approach to encourage “quality” visitors who spend more and engage with the culture, versus mass tourism. The mayor also committed to banning short-term rentals in the city by 2028.
Seville is following the latter approach to limit the number of tourists. On August 14, Seville’s mayor announced a plan to review short term rentals in the city and will cut the water supply to any non-regulated properties, according to Reuters. So far, 715 non-compliant apartments have been found. Estimates for the total number of illegal short-term rentals range between 5,000 and 7,000, while between 8,000 and 9,000 are compliant.
For travelers, fewer options on homeshare platforms will likely lead to prices raising at the legally operating places as well as hotels. In New York City, tight restrictions on Airbnbs led to an unregulated black market of short-term rentals. Yet for residents, banning short-term rentals may help lower housing prices by raising the supply of homes as fewer properties become dedicated to servicing the tourism market.
Spain is far from alone in taking measures to limit overtourism. An increasing number of places are instituting or raising tourist taxes. Amsterdam is a leader in fighting overtourism with a 10-page report called “Vision on Tourism in Amsterdam in 2035” that lays out how the city can make massive cuts to tourism and keep the city livable for permanent residents. One of the main methods listed is to reduce the supply of home rentals.
As every part of the world continues to get easier to reach, it’s important to remember that there’s a limit to how many people one place can host. Some areas are better left rarely visited in the first place. For cities like Seville, Barcelona, and others limiting the number of short-term rentals, tourism will continue to play a major role in the economy. It might just look a little different.
This Origami Kayak Is Perfect for Fishing and Casual River Trips
The words “origami” and “kayak” haven’t historically gone together. But when you think about it, the two actually have quite a bit in common: each can be used as a noun or a verb. Both refer to activities, albeit very different ones. Most importantly, when put together, these words solve a common situation facing outdoorsy millennials and Gen Zers – how to be in possession of a rapid-and-fishing-trip-worthy watercraft when violently increasing housing costs keep them renting or living in tight quarters.
My situation fits this predicament. I’m on the older end of millennials, and I own a home within a stone’s throw of the Colorado River. However, that home is 1,200 square feet and shared by three people, one of whom is a rambunctious toddler who overtakes more and more of the space with each passing week. Our garage is full of outdoor gear, but there’s certainly no room for anything larger than a bike. In the five years I’ve owned this house, the only watercraft I’ve had is a stand-up paddleboard that deflates after each use – fun, but not the type of craft you want to take fishing or on anything above Class II water. This summer, I finally changed that and acquired an Oru Kayak – the Beach LT Sport, specifically.
We hope you love the Oru Kayak Beach LT Sport! 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.
How an Oru Kayak aseembles
1oru-kayak-unboxingUnboxing. Photo: Tim Wenger
2oru-kayak-boxedThere's an entire kayak in there. Photo: Tim Wenger
What attracted me to Oru Kayaks is right there in the name. The kayak is foldable, meaning that once your mission is done, you can easily disassemble it at the take-out or side of the lake. The Beach LT Sport unfolds and becomes its own carrying case, so there’s no need to bring a bag or any other container on the water.
The Beach LT Sport arrived at my house unfolded. Following the instructions, it took me about 45 minutes to put it together the first time, though the company claims it only takes 10 minutes once you get the hang of it. On subsequent attempts, I’ve whittled that time down to about 15 minutes – admittedly, I’m not the handiest of people and don’t have a natural eye for assembly and disassembly, so you may be able to do it much faster than I have.
Early in the assembly, after unfolding the main piece. Photo: Tim Wenger
Getting closer! Photo: Tim WengerAfter unfolding the kayak, I attached the seat, footrest, and other loose components. The paddle clipped together easily. I followed the instructions closely, step by step, and never felt lost or confused – a major accomplishment for a guy like me who is much more proficient at typing words than at assembling anything more complicated than an Ikea coffee table. The bulk of the assembly is simply folding and fastening things into place, and once you get a feel for what the finished product should look like, the steps lead into each other very naturally. If you run into trouble, the company has videos on its website to guide you through and a dedicated customer service line that can walk you through step by step.
The kayak is made of 5 mm double-layered, custom-extruded polypropylene with a 10-year UV treatment sprayed on. It weighs 28 pounds, is just over 12 feet in length, and about 29 inches wide. When disassembled into box form, the product is 33″ by 13″ by 29”. The package came with accessories including a fishing rod holder that can be attached to the side, and a skeg. There’s also a backpack that the kayak and its accessories can pack into for hiking and travel, though this pack isn’t necessary for day trips where you drive to the put-in/from the take-out. The rails on the sides of the kayak allow for mounting of the fishing rod holder and other add-ons.
Testing the Oru Kayak Beach LT Sport
Just before launch. Photo: Tim WengerTaking a break. Photo: Tim WengerI wanted to put both myself and the kayak to the test on the first excursion. I am a moderately experienced water person – I’ve done a few multi-day rafting trips, have kayaked a handful of rivers in up to Class III rapids, and have spent a good amount of time on a stand-up paddleboard on rivers, lakes, and the ocean. That said, I’m from Colorado – a very landlocked state not known for boat culture, so anything beyond those experiences I’ve had is completely foreign to me.
Naturally, I took the kayak to Harky’s Launch, the Colorado River put-in near my house, with plans to float about six miles to Corn Lake State Park in Clifton. The trip happened in July, far past peak flow – the float was quite mellow save for a few quick rapids, none of which were above a Class II this time of year.
Paddling the kayak is natural and not uncomfortable. Its 12-foot length is longer than what would suffice for a significantly more intense stretch of water, but for this trip it worked great. I had a cooler of beers behind my seat, the paddle, and a dry bag with snacks. The kayak came with a life vest that snapped on easily, which I wore the entire time. If you’re concerned that a foldable kayak isn’t going to perform well, just know this – I was on the river with a buddy on a raft, and I was a solid mile ahead of him by the time I reached the take-out. With consistent paddling, it’s not only possible to cover ground quickly, it’s possible to do so while having a great time and not even spilling your beer.
Vibes were high the entire first trip. Photo: Tim Wenger
The slip and forward view. Photo: Tim WengerBecause much of the float was on glass water, I had to paddle aggressively. I got a good workout in, and felt comfortable with the kayak and paddle. The only issue I had was that the seat back loosened slowly as I leaned back into it. Twice I had to tighten the straps to pull it taut.
After the first run I knew I needed to make adjustments to the seat back and the seat cushion itself, which moved forward during the trip so that there was only about a food between it and the footrest. I found that the way I had it set up was uncomfortable for my legs after a few minutes and I spent the second half the trip sitting cross-legged or bow-legged with my feet on the hull rather than the footrest. To remedy this, I pushed the footrest further into the bow, underneath the skirt, and moved the seat back, and have not had the same issue arise again.
The kayak itself performed splendidly. It’s easy to maneuver and steer, and moved with the current in a predictable and easily adjustable manner. Oru seems to have found an ideal weight ratio for its kayak vs. the water speed its intended for – never did I feel out of control (including going through rapids) or have a tough time steering (even when the water was glassy).
One thing to note: going over the rapids this late in the season, I did bump them and there are now a series of scratches on the bottom of the kayak. These haven’t impacted performance, and given the polypropylene body, are to be expected through regular use.
Who should buy the Oru Kayak Beach LT SportFor avid whitewater kayakers, the Oru Kayaks Beach LT sport isn’t going to cut it, not least because you’d want a hard-bodied craft. Rather, this boat is for fishing on lakes and casual rivers, river floats with moderate whitewater, and anywhere else where durability and maneuverability are moderately important but less-so than portability.
This boat is perfect for hiking into a lake or river, or even casual backpacking expeditions where one person can carry the boat and another can carry a pack with camping gear and food. For me, I appreciate that it unfolds into its own case that I can store with the other gear in my garage, without having to worry about a big boat taking up a massive and awkwardly-shaped slice of the available space. I get out on the water three to five times per year, and this kayak will be with me for the foreseeable future.
Rivian Opens First-of-Its-Kind EV Charging Center and Hub in California, Releases New Travel Kitchen
The future of fueling up on the road will look much different than today’s gas stations. But what, exactly, will change? Electric vehicle maker Rivian has more than a few ideas, and will debut them in a new EV charging center in Groveland, California, just west of Yosemite National Park and near many of the park’s closet accommodations.
Given the nature of electric vehicles taking longer to top off than those with internal combustion engines, travelers will need a place to spend half an hour or so rather than just a few minutes. The facility, dubbed The Outpost, will operate as both a charging center and community hub. Customers can learn about EV charging and road trip basics, enjoy coffee and other food and beverage options more akin to a simple cafe than a typical convenience store, and spend time planning their trip into Yosemite or elsewhere while their car juices up.
Rendering of the interior of Outpost. Courtesy Rivian
For the project, Rivian repurposed an existing building that throughout its history has served as a blacksmith shop, a repair shop, and a gas station, retrofitting it for a future continuing to assist travelers and outdoor adventures en route to the nearby national park and beyond. Rivian hopes to open more Outpost locations in the future. Drivers of all types of electric vehicles, not just Rivians, will be able to enjoy the amenities, though The Rivian Adventure Network of DC fast chargers is currently open only to Rivian drivers. The company plans to open the network to drivers of other electric vehicles later this year. Rivian owners don’t even need to touch a button to charge at Outpost or any of the forthcoming 3,500+ chargers in the network, which will be installed in the coming years at approximately 600 initial sites along popular routes and highways. Rivian drivers can add up to 140 miles of range in 20 minutes, according to the company.
Photo Sara Essex Bradley, courtesy Rivian
This first Outpost will produce zero emissions in its daily operations, thanks to a donation from US Solar. The building will be outfitted with enough solar power to cover what it uses, which given its primary purpose as a place for drivers to charge their cars, is set to be a lot. Snacks look to be available in bulk, avoiding the use of single-use plastic bags as much as possible. Travelers will also have the opportunity to stock up on simple adventure basics and souvenirs – think t-shirts and reusable water bottles.
Rivian releases travel kitchen powered by its trucksOn August 15, Rivian announced the release of a travel kitchen that drivers can bring with them on their adventures. The two-burner stovetop can be powered by the truck itself, or by an auxiliary 120v power source, and comes with a small prep area that includes a cutting board. The cookstove is sized to be placed on the back gate of the truck, but is portable and can be used anywhere where power can reach it.
The travel kitchen includes a pull-out drawer for utensils with an add-on accessories kit including spatulas, kinves, silverware, and more available for $200. Rivian partnered with Snow Peak for the kitchen utensils, with other options like a kive and cutting board set and barbecue tongs, and coffee drips also for sale. The kitchen unit itself costs $1,400 and can be ordered online.
National Cheap Flight Day: the Fake Holiday You Don’t Want to Miss
No one knows where it came from or who first decided to celebrate it on the 23rd — but regardless of the origin, every August 23 is National Cheap Flight Day. And that makes it one of the best days of the year for booking upcoming travel, as it’s the day where flight prices historically take a huge drop.
Flight prices are partially based on supply and demand, and demand drops at the end of the summer family travel season when kids head back to school. That causes flight prices to drop also drop, and data from the past few years show that August 23 is traditionally the date on which prices drop the most, reflecting the switch from “peak summer travel” season to off-peak shoulder season. “To address the lull in ticket purchases that occurs as summer wanes, and before holiday travel planning begins, airlines lower their prices to maintain a consistent flow of passengers,” wrote a press release from CheapOAir.com, a website often associated with the “holiday.”
Data also show that this year’s National Cheap Flight Day could be even more significant than last years, with CheapOAir sharing that domestic flight rates are down an average of 30 percent from the same time last year. International fares aren’t quite as cheap, but are still 10 percent lower than in 2023.
You may be pleasantly surprised by how much more affordable fall flights can be. Photo: Prostock-studio/Shutterstock
It’s important to note that National Cheap Flight Day is the start of lower prices for future flights, not the date on which you need to fly. It’s the day when you should start seeing significant price drops on fall flights. Expect the costs to slowly start creeping back up when demand increases for Thanksgiving and Christmas travel. So while it’s probably okay to wait a few days past August 23 to book, and you may find some deals a few weeks later, too, the longer you wait, the more expensive you can expect prices to rise.
Of course, that’s a general rule, and a plethora of recently announced airline expansions has led to quite a few good deals on new routes and airports. Allegiant Airlines announced nine new routes to cities like Miami and Sarasota, FL, with promotional rates as low as $39 each way. American Airlines announced new routes between Miami and New York beginning in November (plus more flights to the Caribbean starting in December), and 14 new flight routes from Frontier to cities like San Diego, Boston, and Los Angeles are likely to bring a host of new lower fares for flyers who don’t mind the budget airline experience.
Wondering where to go? According to Google’s destination insights for the period from Memorial Day to mid-August, these are the five most popular cities for domestic US travel this summer.
Google trends data on the most popular searches for domestic travel. Photo: Google Trends
Las Vegas, Nevada
Photo: ON-Photography Germany/Shutterstock
Las Vegas in the fall offers a welcome respite from the summer heat, making it an ideal time to explore the city. Outdoor enthusiasts can head out on scenic hikes through Red Rock Canyon, where the cooler temperatures are perfect for enjoying the stunning desert landscape. It’s also the best time of year for outdoor rock climbing in the same area, and Vegas is only two hours from gorgeous Zion National Park. In the city, world-class golf courses beckon with lush fairways and temperatures that mean you don’t need to tee off at 5 AM.
Of course, Las Vegas has plenty of year-round indoor entertainment, and it doesn’t matter whether it’s peak summer or the middle of January to check out offerings like the live entertainment at the Freemont Street Experience, the town’s Michelin-starred restaurants, or the plethora of impressive casinos, unique museums, and stage shows on the strip all year.
Read more about Las Vegas:15 Airbnbs in Las Vegas With a Pool for a Perfect GetawayThe Finest Hotels in Downtown Las Vegas for Every Type of TravelerHow to Make the Most of Your Visit to the Las Vegas Mob MuseumThe Perfect Las Vegas Airbnbs for an Unforgettable Bachelorette PartyThe Coolest Cannabis-Friendly Airbnbs in Las VegasThe 11 Best Roller Coasters and Thrill Rides in Las VegasNew York, NY
Photo: Volodymyr TVERDOKHLIB/Shutterstock
There’s never a time when New York City is quiet, but if you’re going to deal with crowds anyway, you might as well deal with them during the prettiest time of the year: fall. And with three airports to choose from, you should have good luck finding a cheap flight to the area on National Cheap Flight Day.
New York City is always a tapestry of cultural and sensory experiences, but in autumn, it comes alive with color, too. Beyond iconic Central Park, fall brings great temperatures for strolling along the High Line, an elevated 1.5-mile greenway and park in Chelsea. As temperatures cool, it’s fun to cozy up in a historic theater for a Broadway show, wander through Greenwich Village’s charming streets, or hit an outdoor NYC festival like Brooklyn Flea or the Global Citizen Festival in Central Park. You can even add on a longer leaf-peeping trip to upstate New York, if you have more than a long weekend to travel.
Read more about NYC:These Manhattan Airbnbs Showcase the Best of New York CityThe Best Airbnbs Near the Empire State BuildingToddler in Tow? Where to Go for a Family-Friendly NYC Vacation.This Soho Hotel Has One of the Best Pool Decks in New York CityJapan’s Famous “Robot Hotels” Are Coming to New YorkRemembering Stonewall: 50+ Years of LGBTQ+ Pride in New York CityChicago, IL
Photo: David S. Swierczek/Shutterstock
Google thinks Chicago is the third-most popular destination this summer, and it wouldn’t be surprising, considering the city’s ever-popular architecture boat tours, outdoor music venues, and downright massive museums. If you’re into dinosaurs, don’t miss seeing Sue at the Field Museum.
As the city sheds its summer skin, visitors can explore the Lincoln Park Zoo without the summer crowds, or spend overcast days inside at the impressive Art Institute. For a taste of the outdoors, the Chicago Botanic Garden’s fall foliage is a breathtaking spectacle, and many Michelin restaurants in the city go all-in on seasonal flavors, especially considering how close Chicago is to many agricultural regions of the US. And regardless of your nightlife preference, whether it’s an intimate jazz club or a bustling brewery, you’ll find them far more pleasant in October and November when the city isn’t packed with tourists.
Read more about Chicago:The 15 Coolest Airbnbs in ChicagoHow to Make the Most of Your Visit to Chicago’s Museum of Science and IndustryExhale and Relax at These Cannabis-Friendly Airbnbs in ChicagoChicago’s Soaring New Attraction Takes You Flying Over the Windy CityThe 10 Best Places to Watch Chicago’s Spectacular Sunsets10 Outstanding Chicago Hotels Within Walking Distance to Must-See SightsSan Diego, CA
Sunset at Torrey Pines. Photo: dfjacShutterstock
San Diego’s fall offers a unique blend of mild weather and abundant outdoor activities. While it’s still warm enough in early fall for beach days, it’s also prime weather for exploring Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for hiking along coastal bluffs, or slowly strolling through the sprawling expense of Balboa Park’s many museums, gardens, and outdoor shopping and restaurants. The Del Mar Racetrack hosts a full schedule of both horse racing and social events and festivals, and foodies will find plenty of fresh seasonal seafood dishes at oceanfront restaurants in neighborhoods like Pacific Beach and Ocean Beach. If you can, book a flight on National Cheap Flight Day for October, as the Halloween parties around the Gaslamp Quarter are some of the best in California.
For a taste of the region’s history, make a visit to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. And if you’re there in October, consider taking a Halloween-themed walking tour of one of the city’s spookier sights, like the Whaley House or historical Balboa Theater.
Read more about San Diego:Where to Eat, Play, and Sightsee in San Diego, CaliforniaThese Beautiful San Diego Airbnbs Put You Close to the Beach and Downtown8 of the Prettiest Airbnbs in Downtown San Diego, CaliforniaThe Top San Diego Hotels Near Downtown and the Beach7 Places to Safely See Wild Seals and Sea Lions in San DiegoWhat to Do and Where to Eat in Little Italy, San DiegoOrlando, FL
Photo: JHVEPhoto/Shutterstock
Ah, Orlando. It may be a town synonymous with family-friendly vacations, but depending on your travel style, you may like it even more when many of its youngest visitors are back in school. Aside from the obvious appeal of visiting theme parks when lines are shorter and restaurants and shows have fewer crying kids, fall is also a great time to check out some of the non-theme park offerings near Orlando. That includes top-rated restaurants, a world-famous mermaid show, or visiting the home of literary legend Jack London. It’s also a lovely time to book a staycation at a higher-end hotel, as prices usually a drop a bit in the fall.
Read more about Orlando:21 of the Coolest Airbnbs Near Disney World, OrlandoThere’s a Train in Florida That Will Get You From the Beach to Disney in Only Three HoursTop Orlando Airbnbs With a Pool for the Ultimate Florida Getaway10 Great Hotels on International Drive in Orlando Near Theme ParksThe 20 Best Airbnbs Near Universal Studios Orlando7 Outdoor Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme ParksMore like thisTechnology + GearMy Favorite Under-$20 Hack for Making Every Flight More Comfortable
How a Traveler Earned Free Hotels in Italy and $3,600 in Flights From American Airlines
We all love a travel hack, especially when it comes to getting bumped up to business class or trying to score a cheap flight. Enter Susan Berry, an American traveler, who recently had a genius stroke of luck, which essentially led to getting paid to travel in Italy.
Berry, 36, shared her story of racking up thousands of dollars in flight vouchers and free accommodation by volunteering to be bumped off her American Airlines flights, one day after another, on TikTok.
@berryfacecreative Apparently, theres no limit on vouchers but heres the catch, im technically on standby so I COULD end up flying home if theres enough room on the flight and then its game over! Lets see if i can make it to $10,000@American Airlines #americanairlines #napoli #italy #travellife ♬ original sound – Susan Berry
Berry’s Italian vacation took an unexpected turn when her American Airlines flight from Naples to Philadelphia was overbooked. When airline gate agents announced the flight was overbooked, they sought volunteers willing to relinquish their seats in exchange for compensation. Berry, recognizing an opportunity, gladly offered to be bumped, and she was rewarded with a $1,200 flight voucher, complimentary meals, and a hotel room for the night.
Berry’s freelance fashion photography career allows her to work remotely, so with no strings and intrigued by the prospect of additional compensation, Berry returned to the airport the following day, fully expecting the flight to be overbooked once more. Her hunch proved correct. By agreeing to be bounced again, she secured another $1,200 voucher and repeated the cycle of complimentary dining and lodging at what Berry comically called “Camp American Airlines.”
@berryfacecreative A leisurely stroll to collect my voucher #americanairlines #napoli #traveltips #airportlife ♬ there she goes –
As the days passed, the Naples to Philadelphia route consistently experienced overbooking. With each subsequent day, Berry found herself in the same situation: volunteering to be removed from the flight, receiving a $1,200 voucher, and enjoying the airline’s hospitality.
Berry documented her good luck on TikTok, “I’m at $3,600 and counting I’m trying to get up to $10,000 and then travel the world.”
This unexpected windfall allowed Berry to extend her Italian vacation. Free accommodations and meals provided by American Airlines significantly reduced her travel expenses, and she accumulated flight vouchers in the hope of traveling the world.
@berryfacecreative Day 4 of Camp American Airlines! Will i make it to $4800 in travel vouchers today? #americanairlines #traveltips #airportlife #travellife #hotellife ♬ Good Day – Nappy Roots
Over the course of her extended stay, Berry collected a total of $3,550 in flight vouchers. While she had initially hoped to get over $10,000, on her fourth day, there was availability on the flight, and she was sent home to her cat and an interview with Good Morning America.
Now, if you’re thinking, “Cha-ching, this is genius,” don’t get too excited. Berry was fortunate, and she was willing and able to be flexible. Overbooking is a standard industry practice, but airlines typically make significant efforts to accommodate passengers, especially those bumped for days.
Berry is planning how she will spend the stack of flight vouchers. Her first choice is Hawai’i.”I have always wanted to do photography there,” she says to Thrillist.
August 14, 2024
Matador Creators Spotlight: Alexa Moore on Breaking Into Today’s Travel Creator Industry
Every day, the Matador Network team is deeply embedded in all things travel. Yet the world is a massive place, and we can’t see it all on our own. To ensure we bring as much of the world as we can to our readers, we work with a thriving community of travel writers, editors, photographers, filmmakers, and influencers on our Matador Creators platform. The travel creator hub is where members can network, land press trips, and find paid travel gigs.
Here, we speak with one of those creators: Alexa Moore, a writer and travel creator born and raised in the DC Metro area.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Alexa Moore | Travel Creator & Digital Storyteller (@lilmsawkward)
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
Matador: How did you initially hear about Matador Creators and land a press trip?
Photo: Alexa Moore
Alexa Moore: I learned about Matador Creators through word of mouth from another creator who encouraged me to sign up and browse some of the available press trips, and I’m so glad I did. I secured my first Matador Creators press trip in April 2023 by pitching a unique angle about a resort in Aruba.
How long have you been working with travel brands and media, and how did you get started?@lilmsawkwardKa’ana Belize Resort in San Ignacio One of my favorite stays of the year! #belize #belizetravel #resortlife ♬ Chopin Nocturne No. 2 Piano Mono – moshimo sound design
I’ve been a full-time travel creator and freelance writer since 2022, though I’ve worked with brands and media since 2020.
Travel has always been my passion, so sharing my experiences organically was second nature. I did it because I loved it. As I grew an audience and shared experiences and products I loved, I attracted more opportunities and woke up one day as a content creator.
What three tools do you rely on most when creating your travel content?I would be nothing without CapCut, the video editing app I use to create short-form video content. It is user-friendly, has many helpful editing features, and even has a commercial library for sounds, making it easier to create and edit sponsored content. I’m patiently waiting for them to sponsor me because I’m their number one fan.
Dropbox is my favorite tool for content storage and file sharing. I also rely on Lightroom mobile app for quick and easy photo editing, which I can do right from my phone.
How has working with Matador helped your work in travel?
Photo: Matador Network
My first in with Matador was an on-camera campaign with Visit Great Britain, and I’m pretty sure I was found through my Matador Creators profile. This seven-day shoot had me galavanting across Great Britain with the most incredible crew and set me up with many other future opportunities in the travel space. Brands have specifically referenced that campaign as their reason for hiring me for a campaign.
In the writing space, Matador Network was the first significant travel site I was published in. The press trips and articles I wrote afterward helped me make a name for myself in freelance writing. They also helped me better understand the nature of press trips, working with PR, and how to fine-tune my writing style. It turns out that I love covering properties.
What advice would you give to someone interested in becoming a travel writer or travel content creator?
Photo: Matador Network
I have a few little bits of advice:
Don’t overthink it; just begin.Network across rather than up. You’d be surprised how much you will learn about the writing and content creation space from your peers.Always have your contact information in an easily accessible place (have your email information in your social media profile bios).Remember, there’s always something to learn.In your opinion, what are some of the biggest misconceptions or challenges about being a travel writer or content creator?The biggest misconception about being a travel creator is that audience matters more than content or skill. While having a large audience can allow you to charge more, your skills and what you can bring to the table as a creator in this creator economy are beginning to matter far more. The questions are now: Can you showcase this product or experience within a unique story? Can you capture professional-quality videos? Do you shoot with a DSLR?
Brands and tourism boards are starting to value creators who can produce high-quality and highly engaging content. I know several micro creators who have surpassed over six figures because their expertise and skill in content creation are just that good. Build the audience, but focus on your craft.
The biggest challenge for travel creators is navigating an industry that is still relatively new and historically needs to be more transparent. I’m so grateful to the network of creator friends I’ve established with whom I can chat and grow professionally.
Alaska Airlines Invests in an Emissions-Reduction Strategy More Promising Than Sustainable Aviation Fuel
Alaska Airlines is investing significant capital into the design of more fuel-efficient aircraft, and if this new aircraft comes to fruition it could not only save fuel but make the flying experience more enjoyable for travelers. The company announced it has invested in a company building a new airplane design that will use less fuel to fly and will be fully compatible with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), if and when SAF is produced at scale. I’ve outlined some of the challenges to sustainable aviation fuel below, but the lede to this story is undeniably positive: while progress happens to bring more efficient fuel and even hydrogen-powered aircraft to fruition, other avenues are evolving to make flying, which accounts for about four percent of global carbon emissions, more sustainable.
Fast Company reported this week that Alaska Airlines has invested heavily in JetZero, a California-based startup working to develop what’s known as a “blended wing aircraft” for commercial use. This concept refers to a plane that blends the wings with the plane’s body to eliminate drag and make the aircraft more aerodynamic. This means less fuel is needed throughout a flight, with the company claiming it may use only half the fuel of today’s aircraft. The plane, if and when it reaches fruition (the company says by 2030, will be SAF compatible, meaning it could not only be carbon-emissions-free but also use less of the sustainable fuel than would a traditionally-designed plane.
Why a more efficient plane design is necessary
Photo courtesy JetZero
Sustainable aviation fuel holds immense potential for reducing the aviation industry’s carbon footprint by replacing traditional jet fuel with fuel derived from corn or other renewable resources, or by using carbon captured from the air alongside synthetic materials. That said, significant hurdles impede its widespread adoption – not least the fact that no one is certain we have enough land to grow all that corn just for fuel. Also, the exorbitant cost of producing SAF compared to traditional jet fuel is a big impediment, as is the limited availability of sustainable feedstocks, and the lack of necessary infrastructure for SAF distribution and refueling.
And that’s before government regulations come into play. A change this significant in an industry that requires consistently perfect execution will require a rigourous certification processes before the fuel can be widely used, and as of yet there are insufficient government incentives and a widespread lack of public awareness that SAF can even exist. Overcoming these obstacles requires concerted efforts from governments, airlines, fuel producers, and consumers to invest in research and development, expand production capacity, build the required infrastructure, and foster public support for SAF. This is no easy task – and it’s going to take decades to achieve, if it’s even possible at all.
The blended wing design being developed by JetZero is a logical step forward, whether or not it ever uses SAF. It has the possibility to make flights less smoother, and maybe even less turbulent, by reducing drag.
Other ways the comercial aviation industry is looking at to reduce or offset its emissions include carbon removal technology, which pulls carbon dioxide from the air, and developing electric aircraft.
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