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Matador Creators Spotlight: Robert Isenberg on How to Make a Living as a Travel Writer

In the rapidly evolving landscape of digital content creation, Matador Creators is the platform that empowers individuals to share their stories with the world. In this hub the team provide a supportive community and a range of tools allowing members to turn their passion into thriving careers in the travel media industry.

Here we talk to one of our members: Robert Isenberg on how to work with editors, craft a good story and make a living as a travel writer.

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?

Robert Isenberg: I’m a writer and filmmaker based in New England, and I’ve done a wide range of work — mostly magazine-style journalism, but I’ve also written stage plays, published poetry, directed narrative films, photographed weddings, performed sketch comedy, and produced a mess of short documentaries. I love trying a little of everything. I feel the skills for each pursuit cross-pollinate with all the others. First-person essays are my favorite, especially when mixed with travel.

A selfie in front of the Forbidden City, Beijing. I was recently sent here to help research a guidebook to China. Photo: Robert Isenberg

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

I’ve followed Matador for years, and I even published a piece about cycling in Taiwan back in 2020. I also applied for several press trips, taking each rejection in stride. I know how rich and diverse the Matador Creators talent pool is, and I’m accustomed to pitching dozens of ideas monthly. Landing the Newport trip was a real honor, not least because I got to celebrate my adoptive state.

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

Depending on how you measure it, I’ve published stories about travel, off and on, for about 24 years. Some were small but mighty, like a 400-word sidebar about cycling the Great Allegheny Passage in a Moon Handbook. Others have been outstanding privileges, like long-form features for BBC Travel. Most of my professional work is hyper-local, published in the weeklies and glossies or wherever I was living at the time. But these behave a lot like travel pieces, helping locals discover the nooks and crannies of their hometowns.

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

The readership is most important. Who are they, and what are they looking for? How familiar are they with a place, and what do they know and not know already? Second, I try to keep an eye out for surprises — to upend stereotypes, to humanize experiences, and often to find gentle humor. Third, I love local lore. What do the people who live in a place think about? Perseverate over? Treasure? Regret? I’m amazed at the things people will tell a complete stranger, and I try to respect that trust.

How has working with Matador helped your work in travel?

I routinely refer prospective editors to that Taiwan piece. This is exactly the kind of trip I love, and I tried to write it in a breezy, instructive way. This press trip to Newport also broke the ice with a lot of hospitality folks I wouldn’t have easily found otherwise, despite their living and working just 45 minutes from my front door.

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

The bad news is that it’s certainly hard to make a living. I’ve coupled my travel work with myriad other projects for years. Rejection is part of the process, and it’s never fun. The good news is you don’t actually have to travel far. Most travel editors want experts in a given place, which translates to “people who live there.” I’ve written gobs about Rhode Island for travel publications, and when I lived in Costa Rica or Pittsburgh or Phoenix, I wrote about them as well because I learned their ekistics inside and out. It’s more romantic to take a jet to some distant island you’ve barely heard of, but to get started, pitch what you know, earn an editor’s esteem, and get more visionary with each new idea.

A passerby was kind enough to take this picture in Mutianyu. I love history and architecture, and my first visit to the Great Wall was a spirit-moving experience in cherry blossom season, no less. Photo: Robert Isenberg

What are some of the biggest misconceptions or challenges about being a travel writer or content creator?

Most of the authors we remember are sprawling memoirists of the Cheryl Strayed and Ernest Hemingway set. I love this kind of personal work, and the Pico Iyers and Kira Salaks of the literary world have inspired much of my own work. But those kinds of epic volumes are hard to complete and even harder to get published. Most travel writing is functional; people want to know what a place is like, what they’ll find when they get there, where to book a hotel, and what to watch out for. It’s short and invitational and has little to do with the author. I love almost all quality travel writing, from listicles to passionate memoirs. But for every On the Road, there are about a million 500-word blurbs about the best restaurants in such-and-such city. Keep at it long enough, and one can eventually lead to the other.

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

Photo: Robert Isenbeg

I was lucky to find a niche a few years ago, writing about cycling. Travel is a big part of this niche, but the bicycle lends itself to a lot of other types of writing as well. Travel writers are often wise to find a similar love, something they love and can write about in a fresh, authoritative way. It could be freediving. It could be baking gourmet cupcakes. It could be a certain diaspora, religious or ethnic, that no one has adequately documented in a given language. A community and geography emerge out of that subject, along with a readership. This has led to my latest book, Mile Markers: Essays on Cycling, which was just released. The bicycle has gotten me all kinds of places, and writing about it has taken me infinitely farther. A niche is a wonderful way to proclaim your knowledge and abilities, especially in the era of blogs and podcasts, where not a single gatekeeper stands in your way.

Here are some of my favorite published articles.

”Taiwan’s Cycling Route #1 Has Everything You Want in a Bike Ride” for Matador Network

”The 19th-Century Hipster Who Pioneered Modern Sportswriting” for Longreads

”A guide to biking in Reykjavik” for Momentum MAG

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Everything You Need to Know About Salt Lake City’s Insane Wildflower Season

On the western slope of the Wasatch Range, Salt Lake City is well known for its giant lake and for being a winter playground, with an abundance of chairlifts, backcountry ski runs, snowshoeing trails, and more snowy activities within reach less than an hour from downtown. But locals know that Salt Lake City has just as much outdoor adventure to offer during the warmer months. In fact, from the expansive canyons of the neighboring Wasatch Range to the foothills that form the edge of downtown, Salt Lake City is a hotspot for summer wildflowers.

If you visit Salt Lake City between mid-June and August, rainbows of wildflowers brighten the surrounding slopes and line their trails. It’s a spectacle so delightful that it’s almost overwhelming — in the best way. Here’s the lowdown on Salt Lake City’s wildflower season, including when to see them, where to go, and what to do when you’re not admiring the flora.

Where to see wildflowers in Salt Lake CityWhen to see wildflowers in Salt Lake CityWildflower photography tipsWildflower viewing tipsWhat to do in Salt Lake CityWhere to eat and drink in Salt Lake CityWhere to stay in Salt Lake CityHow to get to Salt Lake CityHow to get around Salt Lake City

The best places to view wildflowers in Salt Lake City

Four areas of greater Salt Lake City stand out as wildflower hotspots. You can head into the mountains to hit the trails in Big and Little Cottonwood canyons, stay in town and visit Red Butte Garden and the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, or experience them all.

Albion Basin

Photo: Sarah Boles

When I first set out to experience the wildflowers of Salt Lake City, every person I spoke with and every article I read seemed to agree that Albion Basin at Alta Ski Area in Little Cottonwood Canyon was the all-around best place — not just in Salt Lake City but in all of Utah. After visiting, I can confirm that Albion Basin is a winner to me, as well.

For being tucked in the back of a canyon, Albion Canyon is fairly accessible. To reach Alta Ski Area, you drive southeast of downtown, enter Little Cottonwood Canyon, and take the road all the way up. At the Albion Basin, you have options. You can park there and hike up to Albion Meadow, where you’ll find the greatest concentration of wildflowers. It’s a gradual climb on a trail that switches between dirt and rock, shaded and exposed, but the whole thing is lined with wildflowers and towering spruce and fir trees. From Albion Meadow, a side trail leads up to a parking lot. That’s the second option: If you need a shorter hike to reach the meadow, you can drive there from Albion Basin, although parking is very limited.

Photo: Sarah Boles

Once you reach Albion Meadow, wildflowers stretch in all directions as far as you can see. You can continue on this trail as long as you like. It eventually leads to a turn off for Cecret Lake and continues over the mountains into Big Cottonwood Canyon to my second favorite place for wildflower viewing around Salt Lake City. If you feel content after exploring the meadow, you can also return back to the basin the same way you came.

Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting for wildflower photos at Albion Basin. But let’s be honest, the basin is gorgeous any time of day. Keep in mind, once you reach Albion Meadow, you lose your shade, so pack your hats, sunnies, protective clothing, and sunscreen.

Alta: Alta Ski Area, Highway 210, Alta, UT 84092

Lake Mary Trail

Photo: Sarah Boles

Southeast of downtown Salt Lake City, at the end of the road up Big Cottonwood Canyon, sits Brighton Resort. On summer weekends, the parking lot fills with vendors and shoppers at the Big Cottonwood Flea Market, and the air fills with the sounds of live music and the smells of local barbecue. Past the resort, you’ll find the trail for Lake Mary.

Substantially steeper (especially at the beginning) than the trail at Albion Basin, you’ll follow the dirt and rocky path up the mountain, weaving around boulders, under gondolas, and through a disc golf course. Plan for a rocky, wet crossing just below Lake Mary. I brought extra socks as the shoes I packed were not waterproof. The way up was fine, but I happily changed into dry socks after crossing this area on the way down. This is the only hazardous part of the hike, as the rocks get slipperier the more people step on them to cross.

Photo: Sarah Boles

Once you reach Lake Mary and admire its beauty, you can follow a trail to circumnavigate it or continue on for an extra mile to reach two more lakes: Lake Martha and Lake Catherine. I recommend pushing on all the way to Lake Catherine for killer canyon views. Plus, the final lake is where you’ll find the greatest density of wildflowers, at times taking over the trail.

Once you get your fill of wildflowers at Lake Catherine, continue above it to a lookout point, or cross over the ridgeline and head down into Little Cottonwood Canyon where you’ll eventually connect with the Albion Meadow. You can head back the way you came for an approximately 4.5-mile hike, and treat yourself to some loaded fries or barbecue at the resort.

Brighton Resort: 8302 South Brighton Loop Road, Brighton, UT 84121

Red Butte Garden

Photo: Sarah Boles

To enjoy Salt Lake City’s wildflowers closer to downtown, head straight east to the foothills of the Wasatch Range to explore the Red Butte Garden at the University of Utah. There, you’ll find 21 acres of developed gardens separated into themes, as well as five miles of hiking trails up into the foothills.

While the garden features plants from around the world, the best places to find wildflowers are in the Red Butte Garden Natural Area. If you’re pressed for time, head to the Meadow and the Oak Tunnel.

Red Butte stays open until 9 PM during the summer, making it a great place to watch the sunset over downtown Salt Lake City in the valley below. The Water Conservation Garden area winds its way up the hill and offers multiple comfortable seating areas. You’ll find similar gorgeous views on any of the hiking trails in the Red Butte Garden Natural Area.

Red Butte Garden: 300 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108

Bonneville Shoreline Trail

Photo: Sarah Boles

Another place to enjoy wildflowers close to downtown Salt Lake City is along the Bonneville Shoreline Trail (BST). This trail runs over 100 miles from the Idaho border south, following the shoreline of the ancient glacial lake that once covered the area.

The BST has many access points in Salt Lake City, including near the Natural History Museum of Utah and Red Butte Garden. From the BST, you can venture into the hills up a variety of offshoot trails, making this area another popular area to catch the sunset, as well as view wildflowers at lower elevations than in the canyons.

The best times to view wildflowers in Salt Lake City

Photo: Sarah Boles

The start of wildflower season in the Salt Lake City area depends on the weather. Often, when the snow melts, wildflowers begin to bloom in mid-June at lower elevations and at the end of June up in the canyons at higher elevations.

Your best bet is to go during July. The hills (foothills and mountains alike) are alive with vibrant colors at this point at all elevations. Even better, if you’re in town over the weekend, that’s when the Cottonwood Canyons Foundation holds its annual Wasatch Wildflower Festival. For two weekends in July, the foundation hosts a celebration at each of the canyons’ four ski resorts: Alta, Brighton, Snowbird, and Solitude.

By August, wildflower season in the foothills has passed. However, the sun illuminates the golden color of the grassy slopes, which contrasts perfectly with bluebird skies. Higher elevations in the canyons usually go strong through August — and, once schools start up again, you can take advantage of less-crowded trails.

Wildflower photography tips

Photo: Sarah Boles

The great thing about photographing wildflowers is that they look gorgeous from every angle. Take advantage of that by playing with your perspective. Shoot the same flowers from the front, the back, the side, and from above.

Play with the composition of your photo. Albion Meadow provides sweeping views of thousands of wildflowers. This gives you the opportunity to capture that immenseness with wide and panoramic shots, as well as the up-close and personal vertical shots that capture the unique textures and patterns of the flowers.

Look for interesting backgrounds for your flowers. Sure, a tight shot of a wildflower is interesting with other flowers out of focus in the background, but challenge yourself to find wildflowers with other objects behind them, like the sky, a boulder, or a tree. The contrasting texture and dull color of a granite boulder or fir tree’s bark will make the flowers’ unique beauty and color stand out even more.

Wildflower viewing tips

Photo: Sarah Boles

Leave No Trace

As with all outdoor recreating, while viewing Salt Lake City’s wildflowers, you should practice Leave No Trace principles. This includes packing out what you pack in, staying on trail, following local rules regarding pets, and not picking the wildflowers.

Altitude

Downtown Salt Lake City sits at over 4,000 feet above sea level, with the visitors center at Red Butte Gardens at just over 5,000 feet. The parking lots for the aforementioned ski resorts sit at over 8,500 feet. Keep in mind that, depending on where you’re visiting from, you may need time to acclimate to the altitude, even in the city. Plan for slower hikes and allow yourself to take frequent breaks, hydrate, and give yourself some grace if your lungs burn.

Wildlife

Before hitting the trails, review what to do if you find yourself face to face with wildlife. Hint: your reaction to a moose coming at you should be different than if it’s a mountain lion, and both live in the area.

Things to do in Salt Lake City

Photo: Sarah Boles

If you want to explore more of what Salt Lake City has to offer beyond its wildflowers, consider purchasing the Salt Lake Connect Pass. It comes in 1-day, 2-day, and 365-day options, and gives you entry to 18 different experiences around the city, including the Natural History Museum of Utah, Red Butte Gardens, Clark Planetarium, and Discovery Gateway Museum. The app provides you with a checklist of places that you’ve visited and those you’re still eligible to enter, as well as maps and visitor information, all in one easy-to-use place.

Natural History Museum of Utah

Photo: Sarah Boles

If you only have time for one non-wildflower adventure while visiting Salt Lake City, head to the Natural History Museum of Utah. Let’s start inside. Before you even have to present your ticket, you can enjoy the floor-to-ceiling windows (several stories tall) that display a gorgeous view of downtown Salt Lake City and the Oquirrh Mountains.

If you only have an hour to explore, head straight to the Past Worlds exhibit. This experience spans multiple levels of the museum that flow together seamlessly along a path that winds through millions of years of history. One highlight: you’ll encounter a multitude of interactive spots for adults and kids to explore the dinosaurs firsthand.

Natural History Museum of Utah: 301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108

Delta Center

Photo: Sarah Boles

Having grown up in the ‘90s in Chicago, I enjoyed reliving some core childhood memories by visiting the Karl Malone and John Stockton statues on the back side of the Delta Center during my visit. The Utah Jazz still call the center home and will soon share it with an NHL team that relocated to Salt Lake City. As you plan your visit, check out what teams are in town or concerts are planned at the center. Light rail drops you off right in front, it’s a short walk from many downtown hotels, or you can try out the city’s electric scooters to get there.

Delta Center: 301 S Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101

Salt Lake City festivals

Photo: Sarah Boles

Check out the events tab at Visit Salt Lake to see what events might be happening when you plan to visit. Salt Lake City has a wide variety of annual festivals, including Utah Pride in June, the Wasatch Wildflower Festival in July, and the Sandy Balloon Festival in August.

Where to eat and drink in Salt Lake City

Felt Bar & Eatery

Photo: Sarah Boles

There’s a common misconception that Salt Lake City is a dry town. Let me dispel that myth: Salt Lake City has no shortage of unique and fun bars downtown. If you’re looking for cocktails (or mocktails) as well as small plates to share with friends on a night out, head to Felt Bar & Eatery. Make sure to order a watermelon sashimi for the table; it’s gorgeous and delicious.

Felt Bar & Eatery:341 S Main St STE 101, Salt Lake City, UT 84111

Hallpass Food Hall

Photo: Sarah Boles

If you find yourself near the planetarium or the Delta Center while in Salt Lake City, swing by Hallpass for a locally curated meal or drink. Watch a game at Beer Zombies draft room and beer garden or explore the other vendors inside. My personal favorite is SkinnyFATS, which offers a split menu of comfort foods and options for those who want to eat cleaner. Tu-Nuts is my go-to order there, made of ahi poke in a cucumber boat.

Besides the fact there’s something that will make every stomach happy, the best part of dining at Hallpassis is that it’s located in The Gateway, an open-air mall and gathering space. Take your food to-go, head outside, and eat at one of the swinging picnic tables or around a firepit.

Hallpass: 153 S Rio Grande St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101

The Copper Onion

Photo: Sarah Boles

From shareables to specials to dessert, The Copper Onion serves the total package. Located in the heart of downtown, right off of Main Street, it has a large outdoor seating area, as well as a warm, intimate atmosphere inside. The Copper Onion is a great place for high-quality seafood dishes, although meat-eaters can’t go wrong with its iconic Copper Onion Burger. Whatever you do, if the carrot cake is on the dessert menu, order it.

The Copper Onion: 111 E Broadway, Salt Lake City, UT 84111

Cupla Coffee

Photo: Sarah Boles

Located a block from the convention center, a light rail station, and many downtown hotels, Cupla Coffee is the perfect place to start your morning in Salt Lake City. Choose from an extensive menu of caffeinated beverages, including coffees, teas, lemonades, and hot chocolates. But don’t sleep on the food menu. As a self-proclaimed bougie toast connoisseur, I highly recommend Cupla’s Medi toast. Dine inside and pursue the bookshelves and board games while you wait for your order, or sit alfresco in the fenced-in outdoor patio.

Cupla Coffee: 77 W 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101

Where to stay in Salt Lake City

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City

Photo: Sarah Boles

The Kimpton Hotel Monaco is a boutique hotel with a modern yet cozy feel and decor that ties in the natural beauty from the surrounding mountains and lake. The ground floor has several common areas with seating, chess and checkers boards, and a daily happy hour.

But the hotel’s biggest boon is its location: It’s conveniently positioned near shops and restaurants, a light rail station that connects to the airport, and the Walker Center. If you get a room on the north or east side of the hotel, you’ll have a view of the neon sign above the Walker Center, which forecasts the next day’s weather each night based on what color it illuminates.

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City: 15 W 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101

How to get to Salt Lake City

Photo: Sarah Boles

For those of us not within driving distance, Salt Lake City has an updated, international airport (SLC) that’s a Delta hub, meaning lots of flight options. I recommend reserving a window seat when you fly in and out of SLC to bookend your trip with beautiful views. The airport is located close to downtown and adjacent to the Great Salt Lake, providing you with unparalleled scenes of the city and lake from the air on your descent.

SLC: W Terminal Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84122

Getting around Salt Lake City

Photo: Sarah Boles

Even though Salt Lake City has public transportation in place, accessing the wildflowers in the canyons requires a vehicle. The public bus lines up in the canyons don’t run outside of the snowy season, and you might have a hard time securing a rideshare from downtown to the resorts (and especially back) during summer. Plan to rent a car from the airport, or drive your personal vehicle, if you intend to search for wildflowers in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons.

It’s also difficult to access some attractions via public transportation. There are no direct routes from downtown to areas near the foothills, like the botanical garden, natural history museum, and zoo. If you rent a car, you can still take advantage of the ample bus lines, light rail, and electric bike and scooter rentals to move around downtown. (There’s an ever-expanding system of bike lanes in downtown Salt Lake City, and the drivers from the area are used to sharing the road.) That way you don’t have to worry about parking, especially on the weekends.

If you plan on using electric scooters during your trip, note that they’ll power down if you enter a zone where they’re prohibited. The University of Utah is a massive prohibited area, making it very difficult to check out the campus or access the botanical gardens, natural history museum, or Bonneville Shoreline Trail from downtown. When you download the app to rent a scooter, be sure to check out the prohibited zones securing a rental.

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Why It’s Worth It to Travel Abroad for a Concert (Hint: It’s About Far More Than the Music)

Life is about the journey, not the destination, as the cliché goes. I’ve found that the same rings true for the act of travel itself. Jetting off to an unfamiliar place always evokes a sense of excitement, and when done with a good friend in tow — especially if the voyage is centered around a shared passion or hobby — all the better. For me, this recently looked like hopping a flight to Madrid for a 48-hour whirlwind concert trip for none other than the Eras Tour.

Although traveling for concerts is no new phenomenon, Taylor’s global tour has shot concert travel into the stratosphere. AP News reported that Americans accounted for 20 percent of ticket sales at her Paris shows in May, as well as 10,000-plus places at her subsequent Stockholm show alone. (Side note: I fully hear, appreciate, and can even agree with some of the arguments surrounding the reasons for not doing this — carbon footprint, environmental impact, and simply leaving tickets for locals in said cities — but this is a personal essay about the positive reasons for doing so, so don’t @ me).

Contrary to the millions of die-hard Swifties around the world, I wasn’t necessarily planning on traveling for the concert. However, on a rainy Saturday in April, I found myself watching the recorded version on Disney+, and gave into the curiosity of looking up tickets for upcoming dates. I texted my friend Courtney, who had deemed the idea of getting to the show as a pipe dream for months, and proposed the idea. “I’m supposed to be in France around that time anyways,” I said. “Well, I mean, I have miles to use,” she replied. “But I can’t imagine there’ll be any affordable tickets.”

To our complete and utter shock, there were. A quick search on viagogo, the European equivalent of StubHub, revealed tickets in Lisbon and Madrid were less than $200 — $168 in the latter, to be exact. We decided to spring for Madrid (and spend a little more for better seats, as the price difference was marginal). In just a few simple clicks, we were set to go to Spain in less than three weeks’ time.

Before we get into the nitty gritty of traveling for the concert, a bit about my relationship with my friend Courtney: we both work in the same industry, and we’ve been friends for about six years. She’s one of my most trusted pals, makes me laugh like no other, and is truly one of the most loyal and reliable friends I’ve ever known. The past few years have brought some big personal changes to our lives, namely hers, in that she’s gotten married, had a beautiful son, and moved out of the city to the suburbs. Although I don’t see her as much as I’d like, she remains one of my nearest and dearest friends, and any opportunity to spend time with her is one that I immediately jump on.

Vicki Denig, left, and Courtney at a Taylor Swift Eras Tour concert in Madrid. Photo: Vicki Denig

So when traveling to Spain for 48 hours was on the table, how could I not take the plunge? Sure, I was beyond excited to see the Eras tour, but the chance to really spend quality time with one of my best friends and reconnect after a few distant years of the pandemic, in one of our favorite European cities nonetheless? I couldn’t sign myself up for the jaunt quickly enough.

Traveling to Madrid for Taylor Swift

The day of departure, we met at JFK airport clad in tacky-yet-comfortable leggings (we’re post-30 and geriatric, cut us a break) and backpacks filled with beads. Yes, we were those people. We caught up briefly over exuberantly priced airport beverages, boarded our flight a little less sober than we started, and began our journey to the land of tapas and sangria. The flight itself included numerous additional beverages, borrowing bracelet-making supplies from teenagers, and playfully fighting over wasting beads (“that phrase requires too many vowels, we’re running low!”).

Photo: Vicki Denig

Once in Spain, the following two days were filled with sun, strolling, and simply enjoying the company of a dear friend grown slightly distant. We wandered the streets of Malasaña, grabbed wine and cocktails at some of the city’s most famous haunts (shoutout to La Venencia and Salmon Guru), and stuffed our faces with patatas bravas; tortilla española; and foamy, ice cold Estrellas. The irony of it all? It took traveling 3,500+ miles overseas to realize that despite our recent life changes, the seeming “distance” between us actually wasn’t, and isn’t, so distant at all.

Photo: Vicki Denig

The night of the concert, we boarded the subway with anticipation and headed out to Estadio Santiago Bernabéu. We were slightly worried our tickets wouldn’t work, as Ticketmaster had stated that the name on the ticket needed to match the person entering—though thanks to the Gen Zers on TikTok, we learned this likely wouldn’t be an issue (again, cue geriatric millennials over-agonizing about every last detail). We approached the venue with hearts racing, and breathed a huge sigh of relief upon being told to proceed through. The next 3.5-plus hours were filled with singing, laughing, and even a few tears (if “All Too Well 10 Minute Version” doesn’t get you, do you even have a soul?). By the time the show ended at midnight, drenched in sweat and lower backs aching, we somehow yearned for more.

Photo: Vicki Denig

We left Spain with hearts singing, literally and figuratively, and still talk about the concert almost daily nearly three months later. The concert certainly offered one of the most fun nights I’ve had in recent memory, but the reconnection it brought to my friend — and the ripple effects still being felt — were worth every penny. Would I do it again? Let’s just say I’m ready for it.

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

Why you should consider traveling to Madrid for a concert

It’s relatively easy to get to from most major U.S. cities: Contrary to some of the more northern and western European cities, Madrid is one of the closer cities to get to from the continental United States. For example, the flight time from NYC to Madrid clocks in right around the same as that to Paris or London (about 7 hours). Best of all, many major US cities offer direct flights to Madrid, meaning no lengthy layovers (or added stress about connections, lost luggage, etc.)

Your money will go much further than in other European cities:

As much as I love Paris, London, Copenhagen, and other Scandinavian cities, Madrid is significantly cheaper, meaning that scoring comfortable accommodations will run you a lot less — and, most importantly, your food and beverage budget will feel seemingly limitless.

There are plenty of places to discover beyond the concert venue:

Whether visiting museums or strolling through lush city parks is more your thing, the good news is that Madrid has something for every type of traveler. If you’re the former, be sure to hit Museo del Prado and/or Museo Nacional de Artes Decorativas while in town, and if you’re a nature lover, El Retiro park promises to leave a lasting impression. For those looking to simply get lost in a neighborhood filled with concept stores and hipster coffee shops, Malasaña is where it’s at.

You’ll get to enjoy one of the best food and beverage scenes in all of Europe:

One of the greatest joys of visiting Madrid is simply getting lost in its streets, posting up and random tapas bars, and eating as many croquetas, boquerones, and servings of pan con tomate as you could possibly desire — all washed down with an ice cold Estrella or generous pour of tinto de verano, of course.

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All the Chattanooga Outdoors, Arts, and Dining You Need for a Long Weekend

I moved to Chattanooga, Tennessee, nearly three years ago after a lifetime in Alaska. My relocation criteria was unambiguous: I wanted to live somewhere with a vast and varied food scene, plentiful outdoor adventures, and a robust arts and culture landscape that would encourage my adult daughters to visit often. On paper, Chattanooga checked all of the boxes.

For a Southern city that could easily be eclipsed by nearby Atlanta or Nashville, fast-growing Chattanooga holds its own, anchored by lightning-speed internet and picturesque scenery. While I soon fell into an overworking rut after moving there, a recent long weekend of exploration reminded me exactly why Chattanooga is an excellent place to retire — or visit, for that matter, whether for two days or two weeks.

From restaurants and nightlife to nearby wilderness opportunities, here’s a window into Chattanooga’s must-experience nature, culture, and dining.

Get an inside look at Chattanooga’s outdoors

Ruby Falls

Photo: Danielsen_Photography/Shutterstock

Just a few miles from downtown Chattanooga, you’ll find the tallest and deepest underground waterfall in the US inside of a cave located deep under Lookout Mountain. Hear the love story of how Ruby Falls was both discovered and named on a tour that’s highly choreographed, entertaining, and heart-rending. The trip will take you down a glass elevator through a half-mile path ending with the waterfall and a light show — not for extreme claustrophobes.

Ruby Falls: 1720 S. Scenic Hwy. Chattanooga, TN 37409

Chickamauga Dam

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Take a two-and-a-half-hour paddle down the Chickamauga Dam on the guided Lock Kayak Tour hosted by Chattanooga Guided Adventures. Perfect for beginners and beyond, you’ll learn the history of how boats move from one reservoir to another by creating a makeshift elevator using water. Keep an eye out for plenty of waterbirds along the way — you’re bound to see plenty of blue herons, ospreys, and the occasional sandhill crane on your journey.

For a longer excursion, consider the Nickajack Bat Cave Sunset Kayak Tour, which starts with a roughly half-hour drive out of the city to Marion County. There, you’ll learn about the important role that gray bats play in helping farmers with pest control as you paddle to the mouth of Nickajack Cave. On arrival at the cave, expect to be awed as 100,000 bats emerge at sunset, ready to begin their workdays.

Tennessee Riverpark

Photo: Marcus E Jones/Shutterstock

Connecting the Chickamauga Dam to downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee Riverpark is a 13-mile paved system of picturesque open spaces, picnic tables, shelters, two boat ramps, and parks. Head to Coolidge Park on the riverfront, home to a renovated 100-plus-year-old carousel, an interactive water fountain, and a rock wall.

From there, rent a kayak, paddleboard, or bike from one of 43 stations at Bike Chattanooga Transit System, which has both motorized and non-motorized bikes. After, visit nearby Renaissance Park, the former site of manufacturing plants that’s been reimagined to include native plants, and to pay homage to cultures and events that are unique to Chattanooga.

Tennessee Riverpark: 4301 Amnicola Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37402

Walnut Street Bridge

Photo: Deron Levy/Shutterstock

Chattanooga plays host to one of the longest pedestrian only bridges in the world: Walnut Street Bridge. Built in 1890, the bridge connects downtown with the North Shore neighborhoods. Don’t miss the opportunity to cross the roughly half-mile structure on foot, admiring the Tennessee River below and Coolidge Park to one side.

Walnut Street Bridge: 1 Walnut St, Chattanooga, TN 37403

Sculpture Fields at Montague Park

Photo: Marcus E Jones/Shutterstock

In Chattanooga’s Southside neighborhood, stroll around 33 acres of green space on a well-maintained walking path to see more than 50 large sculptures by local artists. An outdoor museum with over 1.5 miles of trails, Sculpture Fields at Montague Park is a beautiful and quirky reminder of the city’s diverse cultural history. The museum is open daily and free to all — even your pooch (although dogs must be on leashes).

Sculpture Fields at Montague Park: 1800 Polk Street, Chattanooga, TN, 37408

Get cultural and stay entertained

The Edwin Hotel and Whiskey Thief

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Adorned with nearly 100 pieces of predominantly local art, The Edwin is a boutique hotel where even the elevator doors are bedazzled. Visitors are welcome to roam the public areas to admire the curated collection — in fact, the hotel recommends carving out a few hours to do so. While the art is captivating, the views from the rooftop bar, Whiskey Thief, are just as arresting. Order a smattering of shareable dishes to see how the menu makes Appalachian flavors shine, along with a creative cocktail (or two) made with Tennessee whiskey.

The Edwin Hotel: 102 Walnut St, Chattanooga, TN 37403

Wine Over Water

Chattanooga enjoys countless arts and music festivals throughout the year, including Wine Over Water, a now-bustling event held outside on the Walnut Street Bridge in August. More than 200 wines from around the world, including non-alcoholic options, are paired with food from local vendors. Enjoy the live music and take your seat on the bridge and relax.

Wine Over Water: 1 Walnut St, Chattanooga, TN 37403

Comedy Catch at the Choo Choo

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Comedy Catch is a long-running venue at the Choo Choo Hotel where top comedians have performed live since the 1980s. See who’s performing when you’re in town, or stop by for an open mic night. While you have to be 18+ to see the show, all performances are rated online from Clean Comedy to Rated R, so you can pick the comedy stylings that best suit your taste. While there, enjoy dinner and a beverage as you get your funny bone tickled.

Comedy Catch at the Choo Choo: 1400 Market Street Chattanooga, TN 37402

Feast on Chattanooga’s culinary scene

Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar

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Expect a lunch-hour wait at Boathouse — the food is just that good. Order seafood dishes like the ahi tuna poke bowl with avocado, jalapeno, and wasabi mayo, and enjoy peeling shrimp or shucking oysters outside on the patio overlooking the Tennessee River. If seafood isn’t your thing, try the rotisserie chicken, smoked brisket, or pork nachos. Boathouse is conveniently located next to the Riverpark — perfect for taking a scenic stroll or bike ride after your meal.

Boathouse: 1459 Riverside Dr #4312, Chattanooga, TN 37406

State of Confusion

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Known for its Peruvian ceviche, State of Confusion is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Brunch on the patio, complete with live music and indulgent dishes like fried chicken funnel cake, is a highlight. Along with STIR, another great Chattanooga brunch spot that also serves excellent espresso martinis and other cocktails, State of Confusion partners with the CHATT Foundation, helping to provide relief for people experiencing homelessness and low-income families.

State of Confusion: 301 E Main St, Chattanooga, TN 37408

Ernest Chinese

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Ernest Chinese is a reboot of the former popular restaurant The Flying Squirrel, now named in memory of the owner’s beloved cat. The upscale restaurant elevates classic Chinese dishes like egg fried rice, dan dan noodles, and gong bao chicken. If you want to do dinner and drinks, stop by during happy hour to enjoy one of the many tiki drinks on offer — like the Death Rattle, served in adorable, locally made ceramic cups — at half the price.

Ernest Chinese: 55 Johnson St, Chattanooga, TN 37408

Tony’s Pasta Shop & Trattoria

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Tony’s is located in the Carriage House inside the Bluff View Art District, which is home to several eateries, outdoor spaces, an art gallery, and a bed and breakfast. Its Sicilian pastas and breads are handmade, and its sauces are elevated with tomatoes and herbs grown from its garden. Starters like the fried salmon medallions and calamari are worth the trip alone, while the view of the Tennessee River makes it too good to miss. Tony’s is also easily walkable to the Hunter and Houston museums, so it’s a perfect stop on a cultural sightseeing day.

Tony’s: 212 High St, Chattanooga, TN 37403

Wooden City

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From the blistered Hungarian peppers to the wood-fired bone marrow, Wooden City will have you channeling your inner Anthony Bourdain. Tuck into small plates and pizzas with a group, or keep house favorites like the spicy lamb rigatoni all to yourself. In addition to beer and spirits, Wooden City has an extensive wine list, with non-alcoholic beverages as a bonus.

Wooden City: 203 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402

Company

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The Kinley Hotel throws down a proverbial welcome mat for all its guests, but it also has a secret side: Company. A speakeasy with a talented team of mixologists, Company revisits Chattanooga’s 1900s roots when over 30 legal distilleries flourished there before the Prohibition era. Enjoy a Prohibition-style cocktail and a light bite like truffle fries or deviled eggs in the dimly lit room with a copper bar top.

Kinley Hotel: 1409 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402

More like thisTravelWhere to Eat, Play, and Stay in Chattanooga

I’ve Worked Remotely Around the World. Here’s What All the ‘best Cities for Remote Workers’ Lists Get Wrong

With the rise of remote work since the Covid-19 pandemic, so too has there been a rise in ranking the best places from which to work remotely. Everyone from the New York Times to National Geographic has weighed in on the topic, and while the locations that make the cut are varied, one thing is always the same: the lists are absolutely useless.

I typically am not one to advocate for taking information from non-fact-checked, non-objective blogs rather than journalist-staffed publications, but on this topic I make an exception. When seeking information about the digital nomad lifestyle, it is far more useful to glean that info from someone who has actually lived it than from an armchair writer with a communications degree. That’s coming from a guy who both has a communications degree and has, on several occasions over the past decade, spent consecutive months abroad working from a laptop. I’ve worked remotely at least part-time since 2010 and full-time since 2016, have filed work from nearly 30 countries, and will never — ever — become an office jockey. I’m always looking for a great place to travel to and work from – but I don’t trust “best places to work from” lists. Here’s why.

Where to find reliable information about working remotely abroad

Public tranist? Fast Wi-Fi? Awesome cultural sights? Check, check, and check. Medellin it is! Photo: oscar garces/Shutterstock

Before noting what I dislike about remote work lists, it’s important to note that there are plenty of websites that are incredibly useful when researching and executing an international workation. A great place to start is Nomad List, a site that breaks down remote work metrics for nearly every city in the world. Here you can find information on Wi-Fi speed, safety, weather, availability of coworking, and other factors that make “workations” effective, efficient, and enjoyable. After you’ve determined spots you want to visit, look at the availability of remote-work-friendly accommodations. These can include coliving and coworking chains like Outsite or Selina, but you can also look at Airbnb, which will help you uncover places like Avenida Baja in Cabo, which hosts villas specifically tailored to remote workers. Some websites I’ve come to trust over the years include Goats on the Road, Legal Nomads, Matador Network’s digital nomad hub, and private communities like Location Indie and the Dynamite Circle.

Now for the issues I’ve had with many of these “best places to work remotely” articles.

Issue #1: Those conducting the studies (or writing the article) haven’t worked remotely abroad

Not an authoritative place from which to research international remote work hotspots. Photo: Cedric Crucke/Shutterstock

The most glaring issue with these “best places to work remotely” lists is exactly what I noted above. They’re frequently researched and written by people who apparently have never worked remotely abroad. This is obvious from the intro hook (“A new study by LawnStarter, which scored the 200 largest U.S. cities on 20 metrics across seven categories to determine the best and worst places for remote work, could help you decide,” quipped the New York Times, which famously quarreled with its staff over return-to-office policies), to the location descriptions, and is eponymous with the way media companies churn out quick hit stories (why is a lawn care blog putting together a “best places to work remotely” list? Because sites like Matador and NYT will backlink to it, not because they have any actual interest in helping remote workers travel).

These lists tend to lack almost any context about what it’s actually like to live in and work remotely from each location – because the author has never been there, nor did they speak with anyone who has. The studies look at data points rather than on-the-ground observations.

Any city worth its salt has ample coffee shops and craft beer bars. But what is the scene like in those places? Will I arrive in an awkward setting in a coffee shop where I’m the only one working remotely and the staff clearly can’t wait for me to leave? Or are laptop workers a core part of the business model?

How effectively can I move about using public transit, bikes, and/or rideshare apps, since I won’t have a car of my own?

How do the locals feel about remote workers?

It’s tough to know the answers to these questions without boots on the ground, no matter how many data points are being analyzed.

Issue #2: Not all remote workers travel to avoid cold weather

The author in his happy place. Photo: Tim Wenger

Every study and resource for remote workers I’ve seen – even Nomad List is guilty – seemingly operates under the assumption that all remote workers are snowbirds looking to trade in their jacket for a bikini and spend afternoons lounging by the pool with a tropical drink.

Not me. Not many of my remote worker friends.

Most of my international travels are to places where I can snowboard. I’ve only visited Europe in winter, and am far more likely to visit Argentina or Chile to post up in the Andes than to visit Viña del Mar or Rio. Boulder, Colorado, is such a hotspot for remote workers that Outsite, a hospitality company specializing in coliving spaces for them, recently opened a location there. The ski area I frequent in western Colorado has a coworking space onsite, as do an increasing number around the country and world. I’d be remiss if I failed to mention Bansko, Bulgaria, a European ski town home to one of the most thriving communities of digital nomads anywhere on the planet. Yet, I’m not sure I’ve ever seen Bansko on a “best places to work remotely” list in the mainstream media.

Issue #3: Digital nomad visas are great, but often not necessary

Photo: Arkadij Schell /Shutterstock

Access to a country for at least 30 days is essential for an extended workation. Quartz recently highlighted a study purporting to show the best locations for hybrid workers, one of which was Beijing. Even with recently loosened visa restrictions, you can’t just show up at Beijing Capital International Airport, pull out a US or Euro passport, and expect to hightail it to the nearest coworking space. You’ll need a visa in advance, and will likely have to answer a bunch of questions about who you are and what you plan to do in China. One need only browse the website of the company that released the list to learn that it offers flexible office space for rent in Beijing, a more likely explanation of why it is listed in the “study.”

An increasing number of countries releasing digital nomad visas is a key indicator that more governments are realizing the economic benefits that luring freewheeling tech workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs can bring. However, a special visa isn’t necessary in most cases unless one plans to spend the bulk of their year in that location. The most common international remote work destination for Americans, by far, is Mexico. Americans can spend 180 consecutive days in Mexico on a tourist entry visa obtained for free upon arrival, without the hassle and risk of declaring their profession or intention. I have spent ample time in Mexico and have never needed anything more than this.

Even in remote work hotspots like Bali, Indonesia, it’s possible to extend the 30-day basic entry visa at least once (for a total of 60 days) before needing to exit the country. Thailand may be an exception here due to the irrefutable pull of Chiang Mai as the “digital nomad dorms” and a popular first stop for remote workers learning the ropes of long-term international freelance work, and of course, individual needs vary – but for most workation trips and even most digital nomads, a tourist visa is just fine.

Issue #4: Cost of living is important, but community is essential

Photo: Alexanderstock23 /Shutterstock

As cliche as it sounds, the main reason I posted up in Ubud, Bali, in the summer of 2017 was simple – I knew I’d immediately find a network of fellow remote workers to befriend. Yes, Bali has an approachable cost of living for those bringing US dollars, but that need was secondary to having an inspiring and welcoming community of remote workers. Part of the appeal of solo travel is the people you meet, and when you’re freelancing, the networking that can be done at a coworking space like Outpost is unparalleled when it comes to finding new clients.

Going back to the point above, you’re not going to find a hub of digital nomads in Beijing. Nor will you find one in Broomfield, Colorado, ranked #24 in the US by the LawnCare “study” I referenced. Let’s hone in on Broomfield as proof to why the list it’s on is terrible, because I grew up in the Denver metro and can speak to it authoritatively. Broomfield is a suburb between Denver and Boulder. It is nearly impossible to get around the area on a day-to-day basis without a private car. Much of the population of Broofield commutes to either Denver or Boulder to go to work, and you won’t find much in the immediate vicinity beyond neighborhoods, strip malls, and schools (the one big-name concert venue in Broomfield was recently slated for demolition). The cost of living may be slightly cheaper than Denver or Boulder, but you’ll spend any money you saved going to one or the other for everything you do, be it visiting coffee shops, meeting friends, going to dinner, or enjoying a night out. Plus, a big part of the reason people come to Colorado to work remotely is because of the outdoors – and there are few worse spots in the state for outdoor access than cookie-cutter suburbs.

For international destinations, a major factor drawing remote workers is being able to make US dollars, pounds, or Euros stretch further than they do at home. Cost of living is always noted in “best places to work remotely” lists, and this tends to rule out tech-friendly, global hub cities like San Francisco, Sydney, or London – yet each of these has a thriving remote work scene. Maintaining an affordable lifestyle is important when traveling and working, but whether you’re traveling abroad or domestically, lifestyle and community are more important than knocking 10 percent off of your monthly rent bill.

More like thisAre Coworking Spaces Worth It or a Waste of Money?

This Spanish Region Is Ready to Pay $17K to Each Digital Nomad Who Settles There

Some parts of Spain desperately want fewer tourists. This summer, in Barcelona, protesters went as far as spraying visitors with water guns on the streets and yelling at them to go home. And in Málaga and the Canary Islands, anti-tourist stickers, graffiti, and even fake signage hoping to deter visitors are multiplying. In Extremadura, however, it’s an entirely different story.

Extremadura, a lesser-known and harder-to-reach landlocked region of Spain located on the border with Portugal, is anxiously trying to attract more people. Despite its many attributes, including three UNESCO World Heritage sites; beautiful historic cities like Mérida, the capital of the region, and Cáceres; fascinating archeological sites; and the stunning Monfragüe National Park, it’s not getting the attention it would like to receive.

In an attempt to remedy the situation and boost its economy and population numbers, Extremadura is trying to attract digital nomads with substantial grants: up to €15,000 (nearly $16,800) for each digital nomad willing to settle in the region for a couple of years. Its hope is to lure 200 remote workers in total.

The conditions to get Extremadura’s digital nomad grant

To qualify for this scheme, you must be a remote worker in the tech industry and you must not have lived in Extremadura for at least six months prior to applying. You must also be willing to stay in the region for at least two years.

US citizens, and all other non-EU nationals, must first apply for and obtain Spain’s digital nomad visa before applying for the grant.

Applications for Extremadura’s digital nomad grant should open around mid-September. All paperwork required will need to be submitted via Extremadura General Electronic Access Point, although there’s no current official list of what documents will be needed to apply.

How much is the grant exactly?

Extremadura’s digital nomad grant consists of two payments two years apart.

According to Euronews, women, young people under the age of 30 years, and those settling in a town with fewer than 5,000 inhabitants will be eligible to receive a €10,000 ($11,160) grant while all others will receive €8,000 ($8,930).

Two year later, those who received €10,000 ($11,160) will be paid another €5,000 ($5,580), and those who received €8,000 ($8,930) will get another €4,000 ($4,465).

If your application is accepted, you must request the grant within one month.

Extremadura’s use of financial incentive to attract people is far from unique. In 2019, the Molise region in Italy was offering $770 per month for three years to those willing to settle in the area and open a business. Many cities in the US have also used this strategy in the past, including Montpellier, Vermont, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Topeka, Kansas, and Natchez, Mississippi.

Spain is one of many countries in Europe offering digital nomad visas to remote workers from all around the world. Recently, Italy launched its highly anticipated digital nomad visa, but unlike Extremadura, there’s no alluring grant for those who wish to relocate there.

If you have the money and would rather take a more direct approach to immigrating to a new country, citizenship or residency by investment (also known as golden visa) might be more your speed. Many countries in Europe have golden visa programs, including Spain, Portugal, Italy, Malta, and more.

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The 30 Beaches With the Whitest Sand in the World, Proven by Color Analysis Theory

White sand will undoubtedly come to mind when describing a dream beach vacation. Soft sand between your toes, the gentle murmur of waves, and the clear turquoise water paint a picture of pure relaxation. That’s everything you want and need from a getaway to the coast. And to help you plan your next trip, researchers from luxury villa travel agents CV Villas conducted a study to reveal the world’s beaches with the whitest sands.

The top spot for the whitest sand in the world was Tulum Beach in Mexico, which surprisingly beat other Caribbean and European destinations.

CV Villas utilized Google Maps screenshots of over 200 beaches worldwide. For each location, a color dropper tool extracted the sand’s RGB code. This color code was compared with the RGB code representing the purest white. They then used an online color difference calculator to determine which beaches had sand closets to this ideal shade. Tulum’s beach was found to live up to its picture-perfect reputation, with sand just 1.4 points shy of the whitest of white.

Traveling to Tulum? Check out Matador’s Tulum accommodations guides: The Most Beautiful Tulum Airbnb Rentals Near the Beach This Tulum Airbnb Loft Puts You Right in the Jungle The Most Stylish Beach Boutique Hotels in Tulum, Mexico Two New Tulum Hotels That Highlight the Best of Luxurious Resort Life The Most Gorgeous Airbnbs for Your Tulum Bachelorette Party

Of course, satellite imagery can be affected by lighting and water clarity. However, the research does offer us a quantifiable starting point in the search for the perfect beach.

Anse Source D’Argent in the Seychelles. Photo: fokke baarssen/Shutterstock

The runner-up position went to Anse Source D’Argent in the Seychelles. With a score of 4.3 points off the purest shade of white, this beach offers a quintessential island paradise experience. It’s located on La Digue Island, which is car-free — the beach is only accessible by foot or bike.

The Tropea coastline in Italy. Photo: GagliardiPhotography/Shutterstock

Europe takes center stage with a whopping 15 entries in the top 30. Greece’s Marmari Beach comes in third, followed by Italy’s Tropea Beach and Spain’s Platja de Muro. Interestingly, Spain holds the record for the most European entries in the top 30 with six beaches, showcasing the continent’s diverse and beautiful coastline. From Cala Pluma, dubbed Ibiza’s “secret beach,” to the expansive Los Lances Beach, offering views of Africa, Spain has much to offer a white-sand enthusiast.

Sunrise at Carmel. Photo: Laurens Hoddenbagh/Shutterstock

North America secures a strong showing in the top 20. Carmel Beach in California (ranked 14), a beloved spot on the Central Coast, and Siesta Key Beach (ranked 16) in Florida both claim impressive rankings. The iconic Flamenco Beach in Puerto Rico (18) and Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos (20) round out the highlights.

Maya Bay is a part of the famous islands in Krabi Province, Thailand. Photo: greenmanyong/Shutterstock

While Europe dominates the rankings, Thailand has three entries, including Maya Bay (13), immortalized in Leonardo DiCaprio’s The Beach. And just a short boat ride away, Bamboo Island (15) also makes the list as does Maenam Beach (21) in Koh Samui.

Australia makes a solitary appearance with Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island. True to its name, this pristine beach with its silica sand lives up to its reputation as a global white-sand destination.

The top 30 best white sand beaches in the world

1. Tulum Beach, Mexico (1.4)2. Anse Source D’Argent, Seychelles (4.3)3. Marmari Beach, Greece (6.5)4= Tropea Beach, Italy (6.9)4= Platja de Muro, Spain (6.9)6. Cala Pluma, Spain (7.7)7. Plage de Valras, France (7.9)8. Cala Brandinchi, Italy (8)9= Stocking Island Beach, Bahamas (8.5)9= Taylor Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos (8.5)11. Varadero Beach, Cuba (8.9)12. Punta Prosciutto, Italy (9)13. Maya Bay Beach, Thailand (9.4)14. Carmel Beach, US (9.8)15. Bamboo Island Beach, Thailand (10.3)16. Siesta Key Beach, US (10.5)17. Spiaggia La Pelosa, Italy (10.6)18= Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico (10.8)18= Luskentyre Beach, Scotland (10.8)20. Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos (10.9)21. Maenam Beach, Thailand (11)22. Los Lances Beach, Spain (11.2)23. Keem Bay, Ireland (11.3)24. Agios Prokopios, Greece (11.4)25. Whitehaven Beach, Australia (11.5)26= Eagle Beach, Aruba (11.7)26= Las Salinas, Spain (11.7)28. Port de Soller, Spain (11.9)29. Praia Dona Ana, Portugal (12.6)30. Platja de Son Xoriguer, Spain (12.9) More like thisTravelScience Says This Little-Known Beach Has the World’s Bluest Waters

The Allure, and High Cost, of the ‘Golden Visa’: A Passport That Gets You (Almost) Anywhere

Every year, Henley Global ranks the world’s strongest passports that allow travelers to enter the most countries visa free. Singapore regularly ranks as the strongest passport, followed by Japan and certain European countries. The United States often ranks in the top 10. Without a passport that allows visa-free travel, people must deal with long visa applications and added fees. Having a strong passport makes traveling almost anywhere more doable, though getting one often involves years of patience, a lot paperwork, and a permanent move. Or you can try and buy your way into a better passport.

Citizenship or residency by investment, sometimes called a “golden visa,” is a program that exists in dozens of countries (including Canada, the US, Italy, Portugal, Malta, and many more). A golden visa is the ideal option for people who want to live in a different country, as well as for those who want to travel more freely. That was the case for Egyptian YouTuber Ammar from the channel Yes Theory, who in 2021 spent $150,000 to get citizenship from the Caribbean nation of St. Kits and Nevis. While St. Kits and Nevis passport holders can travel visa-free to 157 countries, Egyptian passport holders can only travel to 52 countries without the need to apply for a visa.

The investment can be in something tangible, like a business or property, or in something intangible, like investing in a country through government bonds. Although, the primary condition for a golden visa is how much dough you have and are ready to part with, the process of securing citizenship or residency by investment isn’t as easy as writing a check. Even if you’re rolling in cash, you need to go through an application process and meet some criteria. That’s where proper legal help from a government-recognized company like Immigrant Invest helps for acquiring a second passport or residency.

Immigrant Invest, which touts an impressive 99 percent golden visa success rate, can assist you in securing citizenship by investment in 12 different countries, and residency by investment in 29 countries, with each nation necessitating various requirements from applicants. The cost varies widely based on the country, complexity, and family size. Some can be acquired by an investment in the tens of thousands of dollars. Others call for millions.

Countries Immigrant Invest can help you get citizenship by investment:

MaltaSt. Kitts & NevisGrenadaSt. LuciaAntigua and BarbudaDominicaVanuatuTurkeyEgyptParaguayNorth MacedoniaJordan

Countries Immigrant Invest can help you get residency by investment:

PortugalHungaryGreeceMaltaUAECyprusSpainItalyAndorraAustriaUSASwitzerlandIndonesiaCanadaThailand

NetherlandsLuxembourgLatviaMonacoMontenegroJerseyHong KongSingaporeMalaysiaMauritiusNamibiaAustraliaNew ZealandPanama

To understand the concept of citizenship or residency by investment and the opportunities available, I spoke with Elena Ruda, a shareholder and business development director at Immigrant Invest.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Matador: What does investor immigration mean?

Elena Ruda: Investor immigration involves securing citizenship or residency by making significant economic contributions to a host country. This could be through investments in real estate, business ventures, or government bonds. Our role is to facilitate this process, ensuring all investments comply with the legal standards and due diligence required to protect both the client and the host country from financial improprieties.

What are the top three countries your clients look to gain residency or citizenship in?

Malta, Portugal, and Cyprus are frequently chosen by our clients because of their favorable investment climates, which include robust legal protections, strategic geographic locations, and advantageous tax policies. These countries also offer lifestyles considered highly desirable by international investors, which adds to their appeal.

What is the cheapest country for obtaining residency or citizenship via investment? What about the most expensive?

Vanuatu offers one of the most cost-effective citizenship programs. The reason: it is a small, wonderful country, which needs investments in the economy, as well as highly qualified new citizens who can invest in the local economy and strategic social projects of the government.

One of the most expensive is Malta. This country is also considering investments in the local economy via the respective residence by investment program, which could lead eligible investors to gain citizenship. The process is not easy and requires full commitment, transparency, and successful business, which resulted in a clear source of funds, which could be further invested within the program.

Which country has the most complicated process? What about the simplest?

Among the countries we work with, Malta presents the most complex process for fulfilling the requirements, involving stringent due diligence checks and comprehensive documentation requirements.

Conversely, Caribbean nations and Vanuatu offer more streamlined processes, typically requiring less bureaucratic involvement and facilitating quicker outcomes for investors. These differences reflect the varying legal frameworks and government policies related to investment migration.

Some countries are listed as unavailable. Do these programs change often?

Some of the citizenship by investment programs listed as “unavailable” on our website, such as those of Cyprus, Montenegro, and Bulgaria, have been discontinued. These programs were halted due to various reasons including changes in national policy and shifts in the geopolitical climate. We continuously monitor and update our offerings to reflect the current status of global investment migration programs, ensuring that we provide our clients with accurate and actionable information.

Can anyone with the appropriate funds apply or are there specific requirements for each country?

Financial capability is crucial, but other factors such as a clean criminal record, health checks, and sometimes language proficiency or cultural knowledge tests are also required, depending on the destination country’s immigration policies.

Why do the countries that offer investment programs gain?

Countries engage in citizenship-by-investment programs to attract foreign direct investment that boosts economic growth, supports public projects, and enhances local development. These initiatives are beneficial for both the host countries and the investors, providing substantial mutual economic and social benefits.

More like thisThe 21 Best Digital Nomad Visas From Around the World

In Washington State, Choose Your Adventure and Accommodation at This 6,000-Acre Resort

I start to feel like a kid arriving at summer camp as soon as I leave I-90 east from Seattle. No more Sound views, Space Needle, lively port, or thick rainforest. Now, it’s pine forests, arid soil, rocky peaks, deep river valleys, and the occasional golf course, all of which make up the 6,000 acres of Washington State’s Suncadia Resort.

I see one of these river valleys after I enter the lobby of the Lodge at Suncadia Resort. One of several accommodation options, the Lodge is unassuming from the parking lot. It looks more like a large hotel than a lodge until you enter the front doors.

Sweeping views of forested mountains catch my eye first, followed by the fireplace, strategically placed bar, soaring wooden beams, and modern-rustic, sink-in-me furniture. Next to the lobby, there’s a small market and coffee shop, a billiards room, and an on-site restaurant. Walk through the lobby and you can stand on the terrace to see views of the Yakima River, next to a fire pit, the outdoor pool, and the steep staircase down to the river. This is no children’s summer camp, but I quickly suspect that it’s a place I’ll become nostalgic about when I leave.

The rooms at Suncadia Resort

Photo: Suncadia Resort

There are more than 250 rooms at the Suncadia’s Lodge alone, ranging from simple rooms with two queen beds to a three-bedroom penthouse suite. The king studio has a small kitchen, fireplace, large bathroom with a soaking tub, and incredible views over the mountains and river. Some rooms come with a small patio or balcony, but there are plenty of options to sit and enjoy the views from any room and throughout the Lodge.

While the Lodge provides the best access to Suncadia’s amenities and activities, you can also stay at the Inn at Suncadia for a more boutique hotel experience. The Inn at Suncadia has 14 rooms and four suites, all overlooking one of the resort’s golf courses. Suncadia also has an array of vacation homes around the property and in nearby Cle Elum, including the Trailhead Condominiums.

Accommodations at Suncadia Resort start at $215 per night.

Activities and amenities at Suncadia Resort

Photo: Suncadia Resort

It stands to reason that a Washington State resort with as much acreage as Suncadia Resort puts a premium on outdoor recreation. Guests not only get access to incredible nature but also tons of amenities to help them enjoy it all year long. To start, the resort has 40 miles of trails (some paved) and offers bike rentals (including e-bikes). You can also rent kayaks to paddle on the small pond near the Pavilion, as well as boats, stand-up paddleboards, and mopeds to get around the property. Farther afield, look into arranging a fishing trip or rafting ride on the Yakima River.

For golfers, Suncadia Resort plays host to 36 holes spread across three courses, which you’ll need to book a tee time to play. There are also multiple pools on the property, including one at the Lodge that’s a great place to watch the sunset and two (one indoor and one outdoor) at the Swim & Fitness Center a short walk from the Lodge. There, you’ll find waterslides and a food truck, as well as fitness classes ranging from Acqua Fit to pilates. Swim lessons are available for the little ones.

Photo: Suncadia Resort

Not all of the outdoor fun at Suncadia Resort is reserved for sporty types, however. Some is more casual, like playing lawn games or bringing a s’mores packet from Source Mercantile to one of the property’s two firepits (one in the forest, one overlooking the valley). Even more amenities await at Nelson Farm, a Suncadia property that’s a 10-minute drive or shuttle from the Lodge.

There, you can try your hand at archery, ax-throwing, or art experiences such as tie-dye, acrylic pouring, and photography sessions. The farm also has a lazy river, gel blaster range, and pump track, as well as events like live local music, the occasional movie night, and season-specific activities. Note that most experiences and rentals aren’t included with a Lodge stay and require an extra fee, starting at around $20.

Finally, when it’s time to relax, don’t overlook Suncadia’s Glade Spring Spa. Try a massage or facial, then follow it up with a soak or sauna in the outdoor glades, secluded in the forest. After a rejuvenating treatment, head to the Sanctuary, where you’ll find multiple fireplaces, the requisite cucumber water, dozens of cozy chairs, relaxing forest views, and even a small menu if you’re inclined.

Dining at Suncadia Resort

Photo: Suncadia Resort

There are several dining options at Suncadia Resort. The Source Plates & Pours is the Lodge’s restaurant. It serves Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine, including produce from Suncadia’s own gardens, and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The standout dishes I had there were the steak with chimichurri and huckleberry forest cake, as well as the experience of enjoying your morning coffee with a view. Outside the Source is a casual bar, which is ideal for happy hour for creative cocktails (and even more views).

My favorite meal at Suncadia Resort started with a short walk from the Lodge to the Inn’s beautiful Stovehouse restaurant. (You can also drive to the Inn from the Lodge, but the trail is peaceful and lined with lights.) I started with a summery watermelon drink and croquettes, followed by a coffee-rubbed flank steak and a slice of decadent chocolate cake that my server convinced me to bring home.

Other dining options at Suncadia Resort include room service (serving selected dishes from the Source), the Source Mercantile (serving espresso, snacks, sandwiches, pastries, and small salads), Mulligans on the Prospector Golf Course, and the Taste of the Cascades food truck (located at the Swim & Fitness Club in the summer). Also on the property is the Swiftwater Cellars Winery, which has a restaurant and lounge that’s open for lunch and dinner (and, of course, tastings).

What to do near Suncadia Resort

Photo: Ian Dewar Photography/Shutterstock

Suncadia Resort is so expansive, entertaining, and beautiful that you could happily spend your entire stay there. But if you want a change of pace, or slightly cheaper dining options, head to nearby Roslyn, a historic mining town about two miles from the resort. There, the Brick Saloon is the oldest bar in Washington, and many of the storefronts look just as they did when the town was founded in 1886. For a bigger city feel, head to Cle Elum, a former mining and logging town that’s now home to a historic downtown and plenty of restaurants, shops, and cafes.

How to get to Suncadia Resort

Photo: Suncadia Resort

It’s easiest to reach Suncadia by car, as it’s about a two-hour drive east of Seattle and about one hour west of Yakima. The resort also offers a shuttle service from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and while you’re on the property. I didn’t have a car while staying at the resort, and I was able to walk or catch the shuttle with minimal fuss between the Lodge and my various activities.

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The 10 Most Popular Places to Travel This Fall, According to Expedia

When it come to online travel aggregates — search engines that help you search for travel across a variety of brands and websites — one of the most well-known is Expedia. It’s the third most popular travel aggregate in the world, just after Booking.com and Trip.com, with a total value of just over $17 billion as of the last fiscal year. That represents a massive number of hotel and airfare searches from users across the world. And Expedia.com just released an in-depth analysis of those millions and millions of pieces of data, sharing which destinations are the most popular places to travel in the fall.

If you’re looking for somewhere to travel between September 3 and November 15, expect to see quite a few fellow travelers in the following destinations (though they’re still likely to be less crowded than in the middle of summer).

Photo: Expedia.com

However, what’s maybe more interesting is what destinations are trending for travel in the fall. Many of the most popular fall destinations above are perennial travel favorites and will likely always be among the most-searched destinations year-round. The destinations below are the ones that are rising in popularity the most for where to go in fall, meaning there were way more searches for travel to these destinations between September and November of 2024 than there were during the same period in 2023.

Photo: Expedia.com

It’s safe to say that if you’re heading to any of the international destinations below, you’re definitely not ahead of the curve. In fact, you’re almost certainly behind it. But the good news is for every already overcrowded destination, there’s probably a good alternative that most tourists haven’t discovered — yet.

Instead of Tulum (#1), head to Isla Holbox

Photo: Arkadij Schell/Shutterstock

Isla Holbox is a small, car-free island off the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. It’s far less crowded than Tulum, with very little of the fist-pumping, beach club vibes that many people love (or hate) about Tulum. While it may not have the same level of international renown, its unique charm and tranquility make it a worthy destination for a more authentic and peaceful experience. It’s known for pristine beaches dotted with hammocks and flamingos, and chances to snorkel and swim with whale sharks. You’ll still find beachfront yoga classes, juice shops, and ritzy hotels, but it’s not anywhere near as crowded as Tulum on an average day. Ut’s about 80 miles north of Cancún, while Tulum is to the south.

Instead of Mallorca (#2), head to Madeira

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Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands, is renowned for its beautiful beaches, charming towns, and vibrant nightlife. But it’s also ridiculously busy, and the tourism economy is causing strain on local populations. So instead, consider heading to Madeira, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Atlantic.” It’s a group of four volcanic Portuguese islands with a lush, subtropical climate and dramatic landscapes that lend themselves to hiking, cliff jumping, mountain biking, climbing, and more. Of course, the gorgeous beaches also have plenty of swimming, scuba diving, and amazing places to relax in the sun. And since it’s Portugal, you can count on fabulous food and wine, as well as pretty beachside towns that feel like you’re in mainland Europe.

Madeira is an easy flight from NYC or from many major airports in Europe.

Instead of Curaçao (#3), head to Bonaire

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Both Bonaire and Curaçao offer stunning Caribbean landscapes and a Dutch colonial influence, but Curaçao is definitely busier. However, if it’s snorkeling or scuba diving that appeals to you, Bonaire may be a better place to travel in the fall. It’s often referred to as the “Diver’s Paradise,” with a pristine marine environment and exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities. The island’s protected marine park is known for excellent ocean visibility, healthy reefs, and easy diving, making it a great place to learn to dive or try it for just a day. Curaçao has more in terms of nightlife and restaurants, shopping, and tourist activities, but if it’s ocean access you’re after, Bonaire can’t be beat.

Getting there is nearly the same as getting to Curaçao as the islands are close neighbors.

Instead of Tokyo or Kyoto (#4, #5), head to Osaka

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Tokyo and Kyoto are amazing cities, packed with historical temples, fantastic food, and many of the streetscapes and modern experiences that make Japan so unique. But if you’ve seen pictures of pedestrian crossings in Tokyo, you know how crowded it can be. So instead, set your sights on Osaka, known as the “kitchen of Japan.” The city is famous for its street food, including takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and udon noodles, and the Dotonbori district is a foodie’s paradise, with countless restaurants, bars, and izakayas (Japanese-style pubs).

Don’t miss Osaka Castle, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a majestic fortress that has played a significant role in Japan’s history, with museums, tours, historical gardens, and stunning views of the city.

Getting to Osaka is almost as easy as Kyoto or Tokyo, since it’s very close to Osaka. The easiest way to get there is just to take the bullet train from Tokyo, though you can fly into Kansai International Airport.

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