Matador Network's Blog, page 131

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

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

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

Arc’teryx Essent High-Rise Utility Leggings

Photo: James Gavin

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

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

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

Price: $140

Katie Scott Aiton

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Arc’teryx Beta Lightweight Jacket

Photo: James Gavin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $500

James Gavin

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Arc’teryx Cerium Hybrid Hoody

Photo: James Gavin

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

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

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

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

Price: $300

Katie Scott Aiton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

Up in the air

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

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

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

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

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

Origins of an epic collaboration

Loading the hops. Photo: Molly O’Brien

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

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

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

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

Back up in the air

 

Flying over Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater

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

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

Hoppy trails

Hops and more hops. Photo: Molly O’Brien

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

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

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

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

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

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

A pilgrimage for a passion for beer making

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

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

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

Back at the brewery

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

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

But the OG spot on Tennyson Street is where the brewing magic actually happens

Brewing the beer. Photo: Molly O’Brien

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

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

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

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

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

Blending two passions to brew a great beer

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

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

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

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

Before you even buy your concert ticketsBefore you leave to your destinationBefore you make your way to the venueWhat to wear and carry with you to the concertAt the venue

Before you even buy your concert tickets

Check your bank account

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

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

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

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

Think beyond the concert

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

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

Consider the venue

Photo: Christian Bertrand/Shutterstock

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

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

Before you leave to your destination

Save your hard-earned dollars

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

Arrive early at your destination

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

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

Don’t be that traveler

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

Before you make your way to the venue

Make a plan

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

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

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

When to arrive at the venue

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

Check your tickets

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

Research the rules of the venue

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

Make the most of your phone

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

What to wear and carry with you to the concert

Photo: ComposedPix/Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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More Hotels Are Becoming Certified B-Corps – Here’s What That Actually Means

With travelers increasingly conscious of environmental and social impact, Certified B Corporation hotels are leading the charge in sustainable hospitality. A study published by SmartBrief found that Gen-Z and Millennial travelers, in particular, value a “sense of purpose” in their travels and wish to support businesses that align with that purpose. One of the best ways for travelers to find accommodations that are values-aligned is to seek out B-Corp-certified hotels, of which there are increasing in number, particularly in the United States and Europe. By obtaining B-Corp certification, these hotels are showing that they prioritize sustainability practices, fair labor conditions, and community engagement, offering travelers a way to make a positive impact through their choices.

But what, exactly, does being a “B-Corp” mean for hotels? The process is actually quite rigid – and the vast majority of hotels would fail to qualify, should they apply.

What does it take for a hotel to become a certified B Corporation?

Ashore Hotel, part of Adrift Hospitality, offers bikes for guests to use. Photo courtesy Adrift Hospitality

B Lab was founded in 2006 with a bold vision: to harness the power of business for good. This nonprofit organization created the BCorp certification, a rigorous standard for companies committed to social and environmental performance. Inspired by iconic brands prioritizing sustainability, B Lab’s founders sought to create a framework for businesses to measure and improve their impact. Its since grown into a global movement, certifying some 9,000 businesses.

To get certified, a business must take and pass B-Lab’s B Impact Assessment, which gauges a business’ efforts relating to the environment, its community engagement, its customers and suppliers, and how it treats employees and shareholders. Getting certified requires a score of at least 80 out of 200, with most businesses failing to reach even a 51.

The process is always evolving, and B-Lab is currently updating its assessment protocol based on feedback from its community of businesses – though the rigidity or the process and documentation required to obtain certification will not change.

“The process was not super amenable to hotels,” says Lorin Augiere, founder of Saturday Public Relations, which has worked indirectly with B Tourism and a host of certified B-Corps since 2018. One of Augiere’s first clients was Legacy Vacation Resorts, which operates B-Corp certified properties in Florida, Colorado. New Jersey, and Nevada, and is among the largest of certified hospitality brands in the United States. “There was a path, but there’s so many things that tourism can touch on that we felt weren’t being well represented. We’re hoping that the new standards, when they launch either next year or in 2026, will have a path that better reflects the hospitality industry.”

B-Corp logo. Photo: Jeppe Gustafsson /Shutterstock

The process is subjective to a company’ size, location, and other factors. Some companies are able to get certified in mere months, others spend years going through the certification process. A company can get started on the application process itself and spend as much time as it needs to complete and submit the application. Once it does so, the auditing begins. Augieri says the brands she has seen be successful in their application are able to do so because they designate a person within the organization to oversee the process (known, not ironically, as the “B-Keeper”), who can coordinate information gathering and reporting across various departments and efforts.

“It’s difficult, but I do think it’s attainable,” Augieri says, largely due to the fact that others who’ve gone through the process are generally willing to help. “Fellow B-Corps are more than happy to share secrets. If there’s a program that’s working really well, they’ll shout it from the rooftops. They want you to copy them, because what they’re doing is good.”

In total, Augieri says, 175 tourism industry businesses are certified B-Corps – but a small percentage of those are hotel brands. Some operate a portfolio of properties, like Inhabit Hotels in the United Kingdom. Others are independent properties in popular tourist destinations, such as The Pad in Silverthorne, Colorado, a B-Corp-certified hostel, and the Armada Hotel in County Clare, Ireland.

“They’re not trying to lie to your face and say they don’t care about money. Only for-profit companies can become a B-Corp,” Augieri says. “These business “are going to make their money in a way that’s good, and they’re going to spread that money out to their people, their community.”

No hotel brand better represents the B-Corp mantra than Exclusive Collection, which runs a portfolio of high-end boutique properties in the UK.

Exclusive Collection combines employee care and a push for increased circularity

Lakeside cottage at The Reeds. Photo courtesy Exclusive Collection

Throughout its more than 40 year history, Exclusive Collection has established itself as a one of the UK’s premiere boutique luxury hospitality companies, operating hotels, spas, cookery schools, and event spaces. All are on the pricey side – for example, the company recently opened eight luxury lakeside suites called The Reeds in West Sussex, complete with stunning views and personalized concierge service.

Guests epitome the epitome of luxury form the moment they arrive, driving into the gates down a winding path through a private vineyard to their lodge, where they’re served sparkling wine from grapes grown just across the garden. What guests may not see, if they don’t bother to look, is that the company built the properties with locally sourced or upcycled timber and materials, and has incorporated extensive technology to minimize food and water waste across each unit. Great care was taken to ensure minimal disruption of the surrounding habitat, and as guests relax in the splendor of the biophilic architectural design, they can rest easy knowing that renewable energy powers their entire experience. Perhaps most impressive, leftover product from the winemaking process is turned into shampoos and other wellness products used onsite.

“Everything they look at, we want it to be part of the experience,” says Danny Pecorelli, Exclusive Collection’s managing director and so of the company’s founder, Guiseppi Pecorelli. “Everything in the bathroom is made onsite, and the loo’s on gray water recycling. The guests don’t need to know that, they just need to know that we’re looking at the circularity of everything, be it water, drink products, even the food for our conferencing.

About five years ago, Exclusive Collection’s management team wanted to ensure its humanitarian and sustainability efforts were not only working, but were industry-leading. To do this, the team decided to search for industry-agnostic accreditation.

The team landed on B-Corp certification largely because it was the most comprehensive, and also because obtaining B-Corp status carries increasingly heavy weight with consumers. The company had long since put in place measures to reduce food waste and energy consumption, and felt it had a great rapport with staff – employees seemed happy, guests seemed happy, and the company had an annual Impact Statement documenting its efforts.

“We kind of organically grew into a B-Corp mindset,” Pecorelli says. “I’m a massive fan of stakeholder capitalism and that sort of people, planet, profit process. A lot of the UK-specific accreditations were all about carbon reduction – and carbon is important, but it’s not the end-all, be-all.

Pecorelli and his team found many benchmarks during the accreditation process that they’d already hit or were very close to meeting simply based on the company’s standard operating procedures. Where the certification really helped Exclusive, he notes, was in ensuring its practices and efforts were more rigorously documented. To gain and maintain B-Corp certification, the company has had to step up its cataloging.

“One refreshing thing about B-Corp is how evidence-based they are,” Pecorelli says. “For example, we were already monitoring food waste, but they came in and said, ‘Where are the records?’”

Exclusive Collection scored an 80.3 on its initial assessment in 2021, with considerably high marks for its treatment of staff, community engagement, and environmental impact. Pecorelli hopes for a score in the mid-’90s following the re-accreditation process the company is currently going through. The three-year process allows the company time to focus on improvements in at least one major area before the next re-certification. The company will spend the next three years focusing on reducing water use, in part by implementing gray water recycling at its properties. The past three years were focused on reducing carbon emissions.

“Why I love B-Corp is because it’s about continuous improvement,” Pecorelli says. “None of us on this journey are perfect. You can come to my business tomorrow and do an micro-audit and you will find things that I’m trying to do but I’m not doing 100 percent. I’ve still got some fossil fuels that I can’t eliminate. But B-Corp is very transparent about where you’re at on the journey.”

Adrift Hotels uses its influence to give back to the community

Photo courtesy Adrift Hospitality

In the US, an emblematic B-Corp-certified hotel operator is Adrift Hospitality, which runs properties — including hotels, restaurants and pubs, and even a distillery — in Washington and Oregon. The company obtained certification in 2019 and scored an 85.7 on its most recent assessment.

“It was important for us to pursue because we want folks to know that we aren’t solely in the business of making money, we are leaders in sustainable hospitality seeking a resilient future for our coastal community,” Adrift Hospitality told Matador in a statement. “As a recently recertified BCorp and Social Purpose Corporation, we operate with a triple bottom line (people, planet, profit) that aims to promote positive and minimize the negative effects upon people, our communities, and the environment,” the company said.

Adrift focuses part of its impact on giving back to organizations also working to empower their community.

“We love to support organizations in the communities we inhabit,” the company said. “We do that through several donation programs across the company. Our monthly Cocktail For a Cause Program has raised over $110,000 for local charities and our participation in Kind Traveler’s Every Stay Gives Back program has brought in over $100,00 to help build a community center.”

Much of the desire to become certified stems from a business’ love of its place and community, and a desire to protect it both for residents and visitors.

“We live in one of the most beautiful places on Earth,” the company said. “We strongly believe it is our duty to be stewards of our environment to ensure the peninsula is a place that locals and travelers can enjoy for generations to come. We are partnered with the Surfrider Foundation in their Ocean Friendly Restaurant program and are one of the initial partners in the upcoming launch of their Ocean Friendly Hotel program.”

For the hotels who undergo the process, the reward is both increased trust with conscious travelers and a business model that just may prove to be more sustainable for the long-term.

“A lot of people don’t like getting accredited because you can’t put your head above the parapet,” Exclusive Collection’s Pecorelli says. “But for me, you can put your head about the parapet and go, ‘Here’s what we’re doing, here’s where we’re heading.”

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Why San Clemente, Chile, Is Considered the Unofficial UFO Capital of the World

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Local stories about hauntings, aliens, and unexplained phenomena can be found just about anywhere you can travel to. A Massachusetts hotel with ghosts dating to the American Revolution, for example, or the myriad supernatural stories about the skull-and-bones-lined Paris Catacombs.

The stories of more than 50 of the some of the most chilling spots in the world are brought to life in Evelyn Hollow’s new book, Atlas of Paranormal Places (Ivy Press, an imprint of The Quarto Group). That includes The Island of the Dolls in Mexico, St. Augustine Lighthouse in Florida, Gunnuhver Mud Pool in Iceland, and Turkmenistan’s Door to Hell.

Photo: Atlas of Paranormal Places (Ivy Press, an imprint of The Quarto Group, 2024)

Hollow has deep authority on the subject. The Scottish writer and paranormal psychologist has worked as an occult columnist, earned a Master of Research degree in Paranormal Psychology, and consults as a paranormal expert for TV shows and podcasts. On top of that, Hollow gives guest talks on paranormal history and the quantum physics of anomalous phenomena.

Here, an excerpt from Atlas of Paranormal Places about the unofficial UFO capital of the world.

San Clemente: The unofficial UFO capital of the world in the Maule Region of Chile

This Andean mountain city and commune in the Maule Region of Chile has a population of 40,000, with most people living in rural areas. It is a place of spectacular beauty, with rocky wildlife preserves, waterfalls and lagoons. But it isn’t just the natural attractions that lead most people here, but rather the supernatural strangeness – San Clemente is considered the unofficial UFO capital of the world.

Reports of unidentified craft in the sky, unearthly lights and unsettling encounters started to emerge in newspapers around 1995 – but it wasn’t just your usual UFO sightings. In San Clemente there’s shining spheres that disappear into the woodland and into bodies of water. Since then, hundreds more inexplicable cases have come from the area, at an estimated average of one report per week. It was happening so often that in 2008 the government set up a ‘UFO trail’ that maps out where the main hotspots are. This trail is 19 miles (30 km) long and takes you through the Andean mountains and forest ranges, including Colbún Lake, which is believed to attract so many UFOs because of its high mineral quality.

Lakes come up frequently when looking at maps of UFO sightings. There’s a variety of theories as to why this may be, but the most prominent ones among researchers is that if life not from this planet were to visit, they may either be interested in taking samples of, or examining, our life sources (such as large bodies of water) or may actually require the components of such places (minerals, chemicals, basic elements), for whatever reason. These places have many confounding factors in any supernatural occurrences because there are simply so many things that can affect what we experience here; for example, the water altering our perception of light sources, reflections creating bounce-back, sound behaving strangely due to the open area or echoes behaving in a way that confuses our senses, etc.

Another hotspot on this trail is El Enladrillado. This elevated site sits at 7,217 feet (2,200 m) above sea level and is one of the world’s top fifty largest stone megaliths that remain today. It requires a four-hour long horseback ride to get there, but it’s a pilgrimage very much worth making to those interested in ancient stone structures, UFO sites and the wonders of the old world. The megalith is composed of a staggering 233 gigantic rectangular stones, with some as big as 16 feet (4.8 m) wide and 30 feet (9 m) long, arranged in an amphitheatre-like formation. It feels like the Chilean version of The Giant’s Causeway in Ireland – another epic and strange geometric stone flatbed that has an endless trail of lore and mystery. From El Enladrillado, you can see three volcanoes, one of which was still active up until the 1930s; some believe it to be a sort of landing pad for extraterrestrials due to the vast number of sightings reported here over the decades. It’s not without controversy, as in order to be a megalith it would have had to be constructed by someone or something, but many geologists believe it to be a natural formation.

Photo: Atlas of Paranormal Places (Ivy Press, an imprint of The Quarto Group, 2024)

As an interesting aside: some researchers throughout history have believed that humankind largely originated from Antarctica, rather than Africa, and that a catastrophic axial pole shift destroyed the inhabited areas there, forcing the population to move to the Americas and the rest of the world. One of these people was Robert Rengifo, a Chilean professor whose work was discussed at the Scientific Society of Chile in the early 1900s. He believed that the inhabited places of the Antarctic region were, in fact, the legendary lost city of Atlantis. This could explain how a previous civilization in the area was so advanced that it had the ability to create a massive and complex megalith such as El Enladrillado. It’s a highly controversial theory to have, but, to be fair, it’s not the only ancient site here in Chile that alters how we think about the development and population of the human race. Monte Verde, a wondrous archaeological site in southern Chile, has now proved to show signs that humans inhabited the area up to 14,000 years ago. Rengifo may have been on to something.

The density of observed unexplainable aerial phenomena here led to a formal investigative government body being formed in 1997 – the CEFAA (Comité de Estudios de Fenómenos Aéreos Anómalos – the Committee for the Study of Anomalous Aerial Phenomena). They cover approximately 12 million square miles (32 million sq km), within which they essentially receive reported UFO cases and analyse them using sound scientific approaches to then generate a report. Their main objective is to help dispel myths and keep the airways safe, but the relationship between ufologists and the government has always been a tenuous one. Many believe that governments the world over have known about UFOs for a long time and have kept the information from the general public, but that seems to be changing. At the time of writing, there has been huge uproar in the news as America began to declassify UFO footage, with many former high-ranking Army and Air Force personnel coming forward with stories of strange encounters. Perhaps a benchmark of how chaotic existence is for us all right now is the observance that a major government came forward to confirm UFO phenomena and it was not even the third wildest thing to happen that week.

Chile experienced its own Roswell-like incident in 1998, when many witnesses saw a strange craft crash into Las Mollacas Hill. The Chilean army investigated, and special envoys from NASA had to get involved, who later requested that information on the case be halted. There are more recent striking incidents. In 2018, the crews of no less than six commercial aircraft all simultaneously witnessed the emergence of three triangular light sources in the sky. At the time it was speculated that it could be secret military craft training or lights reflected from ships below, but it seems unlikely that six whole crews who fly that route all the time would all never have encountered this before and that none of them were able to identify what it was. It’s not that experienced flight crew are infallible – they certainly can be mistaken – but that many witnesses with that much combined experience, all observing this occurrence simultaneously, certainly makes it one of the stronger contenders for true UFO experiences.

For the working people of San Clemente, some believe it is all a ploy to drive tourism and want nothing to do with any potential visitors from other planets, but many have stories themselves. Several muleteers (these are people who transport goods via pack animals, particularly mules) have had some of the most bizarre experiences. Eladio Gajardo reported seeing a strong light source go up and down in a whirlwind motion in among the mountains, a movement that couldn’t have been performed by a helicopter and had no other accompanying lights or noise. It wasn’t a brief encounter either; the whirlwind light continued going up and down for about 20 minutes. His brother also had an experience, but this one wasn’t lights or spaceships but an actual being. He said he’d seen a small figure that looked like a monkey walking in mid-air over the treetops of the cordillera, just swinging its shoulders from side to side through the air without being attached to anything, as if levitating. Ufologists believed this to be a ‘humanoid’, by which they mean something that is person-like in shape but is in fact not human.

It isn’t the only UFO report here that concerns a being or creature. In Cajón del Maipo, a canyon area where many bodies of water converge to create great lakes and mountain ranges, a mountaineer by the name of Claudio Pastén was visiting a particular lagoon, El Morado. There, he reported seeing two ‘huge lights’ settle over the basin of water and as soon as he tried to get the attention of the two German tourists with him the lights changed course and dipped into the water, causing the entire lagoon to illuminate. When the light faded a craft suddenly emerged from the water and it left ‘two beings of great stature’ standing there. This report came in 1997.

Another young man, this time one who works in transport services, named Sebastian Riquelme, had an experience while out driving in Vilches. He was with his girlfriend, who was pregnant at the time, travelling along a road in their pick-up truck. He says that suddenly, out of nowhere, came a red light, hovering several feet above the ground. They slowed down and flashed their truck lights at it; as soon as they did, the light began to expand and get larger. Sebastian says that he felt paralyzed and unable to move and that it went on for a long period of time. He felt so frozen that he never even thought to reach for his phone; all he could do was watch in horror.

Even one of the mayors of this province had encounters as a young boy. Agreed fifteen, Juan Rojas was on a school trip in the 1970s, and during the trip a classmate became injured and needed to be carried back during the night in order to receive medical attention. He said that the group were followed by an oval-shaped object that was lit up at many points, and that this object followed them the whole night, until exhaustion forced them to stop and sleep. Later, in 1990, he would have a second experience when visiting Colbún Lake with his family, where they saw a ‘luminous object’ emerge from the water.

In 2010, an earthquake measuring 8.8 on the Richter Scale occurred just off the central coast of Chile, at the point where the South American plate is subducted by the Nazca plate, causing tsunamis and killing hundreds of people in its destruction. During this horrendous event, a group of schoolteachers from Talca were camping at the Maule Lagoon when they had an overwhelming, strange experience; they reported that while the ground shook from the after-effects of the earthquake they saw ‘vehicles’ emerge from the lagoon and fly up into the sky and vanish.

There is a theory among ufologists that San Clemente essentially marks the end of the Inca Road, which connects to Nazca in Peru – another area rich in UFO sightings, historical depictions of UFOs and space-related mythology. The consensus appears to be that many UFO ‘hotspot’ areas can be linked to one another and that leads to belief that if we are truly experiencing visitors from other planets then they are concentrating on these areas for specific reasons. Chief among them seem to be a focus on large bodies of water that have high mineral quality, areas of large volcanic and tectonic turbulence and ancient stone structures that are monolithic or were created by supreme natural disaster.

The UFO reports from San Clemente don’t appear to be slowing down any time soon and it is now hosting annual conferences for enthusiasts to get together and discuss ongoing phenomena and the equipment necessary to capture it. With governments all over the world now starting to declassify information that many feel is challenging what they once wrote off as impossible, the question ‘are we alone in the universe?’ has become increasingly harder to answer with any sense of absolution.

Excerpted with permission from Atlas of Paranormal Places (Ivy Press, an imprint of The Quarto Group, 2024) by Evelyn Hollow. Atlas of Paranormal Places publishes September 12, 2024 and can be purchased wherever fine books are sold. Learn more at quarto.com.

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Flight Attendant Shares the Makeup Products She Uses to Look Fresh, Without Touch-Ups, for 20 Hours

When I travel long distances, I never wear makeup. I’ve even been known to give myself an inflight facial. But I don’t have a job that requires me to look presentable. After years of flying long-haul and disembarking with a bird’s nest on my head and shiny skin, I’m in awe of how fresh flight attendants manage to look on landing. Yes, they have the benefit of sleeping compartments, but those quarters are often smaller than a business-class seat. So, how do they achieve to look flawless over such a long period of time? Recently, a flight attendant with Emirates shared on Instagram how she keeps her makeup in place and looking fresh after a 14-hour flight and a 20-plus-hour day on duty.

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Flight attendant and influencer Danielle shares her pre- and post-flight look. After over 20 hours in a full face and a flight from Dubai to Seattle without a touchup, I think we can all agree she looks fabulous. “I’ve ate, drank, and slept during the flight in this makeup,” she says.

I was curious about what products have that kind of staying power, and thankfully, Danielle shared some of her favorite beauty buys. Although I’ve not tried all of these, the influencer has tested them on countless long flights, and they are all reasonably priced and available through Amazon. I’m a huge fan of drugstore brands that create something brilliant (and long-lasting) that holds its own against luxury beauty companies. Here are some of the products Danielle swears by and a few of my own suggestions.

For a primer, Danielle suggests Elf Costemtics Power Grip Primer ($9.96). It’s a gripping primer, so it really sticks to your skin and lays a really solid foundation. If you’re like me and battle with oily skin, you’ll need a decent primer to stop your makeup from being broken down by excess oil throughout your day. I use Milk Hydro Grip Primer ($20.00), which has worked really well for my skin. It’s a little more expensive but it lasts forever and has some additional skincare benefits.

Danielle swears by Vichy Dermablend Smooth Liquid Foundation ($22.00). It’s got a built-in SPF and medium coverage. Foundation is a personal choice, but opting for something oil-free like L’Oréal Paris Infallible 32H Matte Cover Foundation ($21.99) will stop that shine and keep your makeup in place.

Danielle opts for NYX Bare With Me Concealer Serum ($9.99) for concealer. I purchased this product to try out for my wedding day this summer, and it’s staying in my toolbox.

For mascara, she suggests H.U.D.A BEAUTY 1 Coat. The price for this in the UK is around $15. But as it might be tricky to get hold of in the US, I suggest trying a tubular mascara (which wraps around each individual lash and does not smudge or damage your lashes) like L’Oreal Paris Makeup Double Extend Tubing Mascara ($9.99). I’ve been wearing this for years and am terrified it will be discontinued.

For a setting powder, Danielle is also opting for H.U.D.A with the Easy Bake ($47.88). I’d also recommend Urban Decay’s All Nighter Waterproof Setting Powder ($35.00); it’s another product I’ve been loyal to for over a decade.

Danielle is also using Milani Make It Last Setting Spray ($9.99) to set her face. Although she undoubtedly has a solid foundation, this setting spray must work wonders.

Her lip is Maybelline’s Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick ($5.34). There was a ton of hype about this product when it first came out, not just because the price is so great. Unlike most drugstore liquid lipsticks, which can get real dry real quick, Maybelline’s stays in place and hydrated. There’s also a great color range.

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Where to Play, Eat, and Stay in Springfield, Missouri

Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks, scenic Springfield is far more than just a stop along historic Route 66 — although, as the official birthplace of the Mother Road, it does make an excellent place for a road trip. Springfield is also a vibrant college town, a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs, and a burgeoning foodie destination.

Whether you’re here to explore the mind-boggling underground cave system, float the countless rivers and lakes, root for a home team, or sample the unique flavors of the Ozarks, Queen City (as in “Queen City of the Ozarks”) is full of surprises. Here’s your insider’s guide to experiencing the very best of this charming city.

Things to do in Springfield, Missouri

Fantastic Caverns

Photo: Taryn Shorr-Mckee

Springfield is home to North America’s only ride-through cave, which is exactly what it sounds like — instead of walking tours, Fantastic Caverns offers guided tours in custom open-air trams pulled by Jeeps. The guides include experts like historians and geologists, so in addition to seeing the giant ancient formations up-close, visitors also learn about things like how a dog accidentally discovered the cave and the fact that a group of women was the first to survey it.

One important thing to note is that tickets are strictly first-come, first-served; you can’t buy them online or in advance.

Fantastic Caverns: 4872 N Farm Rd 125, Springfield, MO 65803

Bass Pro Shops and Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium

Photo: CJ Hanevy/Shutterstock

The iconic outdoor company Bass Pro Shops was founded in Springfield, so a visit to the original flagship store is a must. With its absolutely massive size, outdoor decor, multiple museums and restaurants, coffee shop, shooting range, and live animals, it feels more like a wildlife theme park than just a store.

Right next door (the entrance is actually in the same building) is the award-winning Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium (WOW). Voted “America’s Best Aquarium” an unprecedented six consecutive times, WOW lets you see and interact with thousands of marine species from around the world. The aquarium also hosts all sorts of unique events throughout the year, ranging from Shark Week-themed summer camps for children to museum yoga and adults-only, after-hours cocktail parties.

Bass Pro Shops: 1 Bass Pro Dr, Springfield, MO 65807

Wonders of Wildlife: 500 W Sunshine St, Springfield, MO 65807

Fellows Lake

Photo: Walter L White/Shutterstock

At the north end of Springfield, 860-acre Fellows Lake is the perfect setting for a serene day on the water — on the water is an important distinction because you can’t swim in the lake. It’s Springfield’s primary source of drinking water, managed by the Watershed Committee of the Ozarks. The pristine, scenic reservoir is also a hub for outdoor recreation, offering kayak and boat rentals, sailing lessons, hiking and biking trails, fishing, hunting, day-use areas, and campgrounds for those who want to extend their stay.

37 North Expeditions

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37 North is your personal guide for exploring the Ozarks on a deeper level, whether that be Springfield proper or a day trip into Arkansas. The adventure company offers a variety of outdoor experiences, from private hikes and horseback rides to relaxed group winery tours and Buffalo River floats. Guides include local experts in conservation, environmental studies, and biology, so you get the opportunity to explore hidden gems you would otherwise miss.

37 North Expeditions: 3803 NW Wishing Spring Dr, Bentonville, AR 72712

National Tiger Sanctuary

Photo: Taryn Shorr-Mckee

Located just south of Springfield, the National Tiger Sanctuary is a safe haven for big cats. Here, you can take guided tours to see dozens of tigers, lions, leopards and other exotic animals in a natural setting. Some tours even include the opportunity to feed the cats. The non-profit sanctuary rescues these animals, oftentimes performers or illegal domestic pets, and focuses on rehabilitation, education, and conservation. Seeing the majestic animals up close is incredible, but the real takeaway is learning more about worldwide efforts to protect them.

National Tiger Sanctuary: 518 State Hwy BB, Saddlebrooke, MO 65630

Hammons Field

Photo: Ted PAGEL/Shutterstock

If you’re in town during baseball season (April through September), catch a Springfield Cardinals home game at Hammons Field. The St. Louis Cardinals’ Double-A affiliate team offers a classic, all-American ballpark experience right downtown. On Thursday night summer home games, the team plays as its alter ego, the Springfield Cashew Chickens. This fun twist pays homage to the city’s culinary claim to fame — the popular dish cashew chicken was invented here.

Hammons Field: 955 E Trafficway St, Springfield, MO 65802

Farmers Market of the Ozarks at Farmers Park

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For a literal taste of the Ozarks, head to this year-round Saturday morning farmers market. Over 60 local vendors sell fresh produce, dairy products, ethically raised meat, baked goods, artisan jewelry and crafts, and more. The market requires all vendors to be within a 150-mile radius, so everything is truly local. Most weekends, there are local food trucks and live music, too.

Farmers Market of the Ozarks: 2144 E Republic Rd, Springfield, MO 65804

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park

Photo: Taryn Shorr-Mckee

Although Dogwood Canyon is about an hour’s drive from Springfield, the incredible 10,000-acre park deserves a spot on your itinerary. With conservation as its primary mission, Dogwood Canyon is so pristine that it could be a serious contender for the country’s next national park. It’s full of waterfalls, distinctive Ozarks bluffs, wildlife like elk and bison, creeks, and a working gristmill. Visitors can explore it all by hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, or taking a guided tram tour.

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park: 2038 State Hwy 86, Lampe, MO 65681

Askinosie Chocolate Factory

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At this father-and-daughter-run “micro-factory,” you can sample award-winning chocolate and see how it’s made. Askinosie offers tours that give you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at its bean-to-bar process, from ethically sourcing cocoa beans to the finished, delicious product. As a bonus, the factory is on C Street, a historic but hip district lined with some of the city’s hottest restaurants, bakeries, and shops.

Askinosie Chocolate Factory: 514 E Commercial St, Springfield, MO 65803

Where to eat and drink in Springfield, Missouri

Cafe Cusco

Photo: Taryn Shorr-Mckee

Get a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Springfield’s oldest historic district. This vibrant, always-bustling eatery is a shining example of the city’s surprisingly diverse food scene. Try traditional dishes like lomo saltado, chicken mojo, and my personal favorite, aji de gallina (a spicy, creamy chicken stew).

Cafe Cusco: 234 E Commercial St, Springfield, MO 65803

The Ozark Mill at Finley Farms

Photo: Taryn Shorr-Mckee

The Springfield area has a lot of fantastic restaurants, but few compete with the scenery at The Mill. The restaurant itself is inside an immaculately restored mill built in 1833, and the dining room and patio overlook the Finley River. It looks and tastes like fine dining, but The Mill is family-friendly and very laid-back. Whatever you order, save room for the green tomato cake for dessert.

The Ozark Mill: 802 Finley Farms Ln, Ozark, MO 65721

Harvest Restaurant

Photo: Taryn Shorr-Mckee

Harvest takes the terms “ingredient-driven” and “hyper-seasonal” to a whole new level. The husband and wife team at the helm create the weekend’s menu early in the week, based solely on what’s ripe and available from their own gardens and favorite local suppliers. If you only eat here once, slate it for late September when Harvest hosts its renowned Dinner in the Orchard, an exclusive series of wine pairing dinners held in the adjacent apple orchards.

Harvest Restaurant: 8011 E State Hwy Ad, Rogersville, MO 65742

JW’s Kitchen

Right next to the Farmers Park farmers market, JW’s is a relatively new Springfield favorite. The menu features all manners of comfort food, sort of a mash-up between Southern cuisine and English pub fare, but with an elevated twist.

JW’s Kitchen: 2144 E Republic Rd B-101, Springfield MO 65804

Rise

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This cozy downtown spot is equally well-known for its coffee cocktails, bright plant-filled interior, and signature pastel-striped staircase. The sweet potato breakfast bowl and shakshuka are both life-alteringly good.

Rise: 105 Park Central Square, Springfield, MO 65806

Other noteworthy places to eat and drink

Photo: Taryn Shorr-Mckee

Blue Heron Euro Cafe & Bakery: Tiny C-Street bakery serving both sweet and savory pastries with an almost cult-like following. Seriously, they will be sold out if you don’t stop in early.Sleepy Opossum: Funky little brunch spot in the gorgeous Roundtree neighborhood known for its “breakky sandwys” and comfort food classics with an innovative twist (peach-jalapeno pie, anyone?).Sweet Emotion: Vegan ice cream and treat shop with a huge variety of flavors. You wouldn’t believe everything was vegan if you didn’t know.Golden Girl Rum Club: Unexpectedly authentic tiki bar downtown, with a full menu of tiki classics including mai tais, Bahama mamas, and Singapore slings, plus its own creative concoctions. Try a the son of banana man.Bear Creek Winery: South of Springfield near the National Tiger Sanctuary, this family-owned winery has tremendous views, mouth-watering pizzas, and live music on weekends.

Where to stay in Springfield, Missouri

Hotel Vandivort

Photo: Taryn Shorr-Mckee

This historic boutique hotel is the only one of its kind in Springfield, exuding character and luxury in the heart of downtown. Not only is it the only AAA 4-Diamond hotel in the city, but it also occupies a historic building that’s well over 100 years old and was once a Masonic Temple. The rooms are stunning, complemented by the hotel bar, called The Order, and Vantage, the chic rooftop lounge. Plus, you can walk just about everywhere downtown from here.

Hotel Vandivort: 305 E Walnut St, Springfield, MO 65806

Moxy Springfield Downtown

Photo: Taryn Shorr-Mckee

The brand-new Moxy (Missouri’s first) is just around the corner from Hotel Vandivort (literally, it’s a two-minute walk). If you’ve ever been to a Moxy hotel, you know the brand is modern, playful, and cheeky. Check-in is at the bar, for example, and includes a complimentary cocktail. This Moxy stays true to its roots, but it’s located in a historically significant building that’s nearly a century old. Highlights include the city’s tallest rooftop bar, Eyrie, a speakeasy-esque basement lounge, and decor inspired by the Ozark Mountain Daredevils.

Moxy Springfield: 430 South Ave, Springfield, MO 65806

Getting to and around Springfield, Missouri

Photo: Taryn Shorr-Mckee

Springfield is easily accessible via the Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF). It’s on the smaller side, but it’s a beautiful, modern airport and serves 15 destinations with nonstop flights.

If you’re driving, the city is conveniently located along I-44, almost equidistant to Kansas City (190 miles or just over three hours) and St. Louis (210 miles or about 3.5 hours). Especially because Springfield is along the original Route 66, it’s a fantastic road trip destination.

Once you’re in Springfield, it’s largely a vehicle-dependent city, although downtown and a handful of surrounding neighborhoods are very walkable. It’s logically laid out, most attractions and amenities are clustered together in a few areas, and rideshare options are plentiful, so getting around is a breeze overall.

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New Global Data Shows 10 Most Popular Museums in the World

An annual report based on data from the most popular museums and theme parks around the world just came out on August 8, with 82 pages of highly detailed data about where travelers are spending their time. And while the world’s most popular theme parks are generally what you’d expect (Disney parks in Florida, California, Japan, and Shanghai), what’s more interesting are the world’s most popular museums.

In the US, the number of visits to the museums in the top 20 grew by more than 33 percent between 2022 and 2023. The report credits this leap in museum attendance to two things: China opening and expanding several museums (all of which have free admission), and many museums in the US undergoing grand-scale, high-tech renovations to be more engaging and interactive. However, attendance levels in the US are still under 2019 (pre-pandemic) levels, likely because more Americans are traveling abroad, and fewer foreign tourists are coming to the states than in past years. If that trend continues for 2024, it may be a good year to do some local sightseeing before international travelers start returning in spades.

It’s no secret that some of the most popular museums in the world can get extremely crowded. Photo: Bumble Dee/Shutterstock

Only two of the 10 most popular museums in the world are in the US, and while there are a few well-known favorites, there are also some unexpected destinations museum-lovers may want to consider adding to their travel bucket lists.

The world’s most popular museums in 2023No. 1: The Louvre (Paris, France)

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The Louvre is possibly the most famous museum in the world, but now, we know it’s factually the busiest, too. The Louvre had 8,860,000 visits in 2023, which was a 14 percent jump over 2022. That’s probably because the Louvre is more than just a museum; it’s a historical journey and icon of Europe. Its collection spans millennia, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Renaissance masterpieces. Beyond the iconic Mona Lisa, the museum’s 8 million square feet of exhibit space show the intricate details of Greek sculptures, the grandeur of French royal apartments, and the exotic allure of Islamic art. But if you don’t want to fight the crowds, you’re in luck. It’s Paris, so there are plenty of other fantastic museums nearby.

Don’t miss: “The Mona Lisa” by da Vinci, the Winged Victory (artist unknown), and “The Coronation of Napoleon” by Jacques-Louis David

No 2: The Vatican Museum (Vatican, Vatican City)

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Though it’s often associated with Italy, Vatican City is actually its own country — the tiniest country in the world, in fact, at less than one-fifth of a square mile. However, it probably has the most valuable art per square inch of any other country in the world, considering it’s home to the Vatican Museum. That translates to about nine miles of galleries, and though there are only about 20,000 pieces on display (only!), the museum has about 70,000 total pieces. The Sistine Chapel, with Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling, is undoubtedly the star attraction, but considering how many priceless cultural cornerstones are in the museum, you’ll want to leave time to linger in every gallery.

Plan to spend at least a day there, especially since the Vatican Museum saw 6,765,000 visitors in 2023. So patience will go a long way. If you don’t do well in crowds, you may want to check out one of the other amazing museums in Rome — the Vatican Museum’s hallways get quite packed.

Don’t miss: The Sistine Chapel by Michaelangelo, “The School of Athens” by Raphael, and “The Entombment of Christ” by Caravaggio.

No. 3: The National Museum of China (Beijing, China)

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The National Museum of China is a colossal institution, with a treasure trove of artifacts ranging from ancient bronze vessels to intricate jade carvings, centuries-old porcelain, and modern art. It’s the third-largest museum in the world by square footage, just after the Louvre and the British Museum. It’s heavier on archaeology and artifacts than it is on art, though with 40 galleries, there are few types of historical and artistic relics not represented within. Better still, it’s totally free to enter the museum — though that could be part of the reason it was the third-busiest museum in the world, with 6,757,000 visitors in 2023 (a 30 percent increase over 2022).

Don’t miss: The Jade Dragon from the Hongshan culture (artist unknown), the Four Goat Square Zun from the Shang Dynasty, and the “Gold Thread and Jade Garment” from around 55 BCE.

No. 4: The British Museum (London, UK)

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The massive halls of the British Museum house a collection that represents not just England or Europe, but the whole world, from the dawn of known human culture. Its collection is one of the widest-ranging in the world, represent art, culture, and history, from the intricacies of Assyrian reliefs to the delicate artistry of Japanese prints. Architecturally, it’s almost as recognizable as the Louvre, represented by a columned Greek Revival-style building constructed in the 1800s to house the collection. Today, it’s the second-most popular attraction in London just after the Tower of London, and is totally free to visit, though you’ll want to book your ticket in advance. And don’t expect too much room to yourself — the British Museum saw 5,821,000 visitors in 2023.

Don’t miss: The Rosetta Stone, Bust of Ramesses the Great, and the highly contested Elgin Marbles (all artist unknown).

No. 5: The Natural History Museum (London, UK)

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If you’re less into human-made objects and more into “Jurassic Park,” head to London’s Natural History Museum. It’s renowned for its iconic dinosaur exhibits, including the towering Diplodocus cast, and the fossils of the world’s largest-ever dinosaur: titanosaur, measuring in at 121 feet from tail to nose. You’ll probably also recognize the giant blue whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling of Hintze Hall. If you’re at all interested in earth history, from volcanoes and extinct species to the Big Bang and rare gemstones, you’ll definitely want to visit the Natural History Museum — just like 5,689,000 other people did in 2023. It’s one of the biggest and best of its kind in the world.

Don’t miss: A first-edition copy of “On the Origin of Species” by Charles Darwin, a moon rock from Apollo 17, a Barbary lion skull unearthed from the Tower of London.

The remaining top 10 most popular museums in the world include:

No. 6 – The Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York, NY): 5,364,000 visitorsNo. 7 – China Science Technology Museum (Shanghai, China): 5,315,000 visitorsNo. 8 – Nanjing Museum (Nanjing, China): 5,007,000 visitorsNo. 9 – American Museum of Natural History (New York, NY): 5,000,000 visitorsNo. 10 – Suzhou Museum (Suzhou, China): 4,852,000 visitorsThe top 10 most popular museums in North America

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The Global Attractions Attendance Reports also breaks down the most popular museums on each continent. In North America, all 20 are in the United States. And it’s clear that one city has the lock on the most popular museums in the US — probably because most of its museums are free.

Seven of the 20 most popular museums in North America are in DC, all of which are part of the taxpayer-funded (a.k.a. free) Smithsonian Institution. That includes the National Museum of Natural History (#3), the National Gallery of Art (#4), the National Museum of American History (#7), the National Air and Space Museum (#8), the National Museum of African-American History and Culture (#11), the Smithsonian American Art Gallery (#13, also known as the Renwick), and the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center (#20, outside of DC in Chantilly, VA).

However, the top two most popular museums in the world on the North American side are in the Big Apple. New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art and American Museum of Natural History took the one and two spots, at 5,365,000 and 5,000,000 visits, respectively. The rest of the list was:

No. 3 – The National Museum of Natural History (Washington, DC): 4,400,000 visitorsNo. 4 – The National Gallery of Art (Washington, DC): 3,830,000 visitorsNo. 5 – The NYC Museum of Modern Art (New York, NY): 2,840,000 visitorsNo. 6 – The National 9/11 Museum (New York, NY): 2,265,000 visitorsNo. 7 – The National Museum of American History (Washington, DC): 2,100,000 visitorsNo. 8 – The National Air and Space Museum (Washington, DC): 1,900,000 visitorsNo. 9 – The Houston Museum of Natural Science (Houston, TX): 1,800,000 visitorsNo. 10 – The California Science Center (Los Angeles, CA) 1,700,000 visitors

You can see the full list of the most popular museums around the world, as well as the most popular theme parks around the world, on the Themed Entertainment Association website, as well as reports going back to 2006.

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A Fall Trip Means Tasty Treats, Festivities, and Exciting Wildlife in Richmond, BC

Autumn in Richmond, BC, is a special time. The Pacific Northwest puts on a stunning show when the leaves turn, and coastal Richmond, just south of Vancouver, helps set the stage.

But beyond beautiful leaf-peeping sites and cameos from migrating wildlife, Richmond’s post-summer season centers on people. Throughout the fall, Halloween and Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations breathe extra life into an already lively city. Bakery and restaurant owners spice up their menus with drinks and desserts inspired by the season’s bounty, and the city’s robust Asian food scene means you’re never far from a warming meal.

From bites and pours that embrace the harvest season to events and activities that only come around once a year, here’s how to do a fall visit to Richmond right.

Sample all the seasonal treats…

Photo: Tourism Richmond

When it comes to fall flavours, pumpkin immediately springs to mind, from everyone’s favorite seasonal coffee drink to a wide range of indulgent desserts. In Richmond, get your fix at Little Fox Bakehouse, purveyor of fantastic pumpkin pie tarts, or head to the Korean-Chinese shop Rice Cake Master for pumpkin mochi.

Of course, local bakeries also make use of other autumnal produce. One fine example is Daan Go Cake Lab, which tends to take advantage of the fall chestnut harvest to make a killer Mont Blanc. The bakery’s take on the classic French dessert also incorporates flavors like yuzu and coffee for a little something extra.

In the world of drinkables, Richmond is part of the South of the Fraser Ale Trail. That means the city has plenty of spots where you can enjoy a fall-themed pint, from local breweries to gastropubs. Head to Fuggles Beer or Britannia Brewing for some locally brewed stouts and Oktoberfest ales. And local Country Vines Winery releases a Psycho-themed Psyrah that’s a perfect addition to any spooky Halloween festivities.

…and slurp down the ultimate comfort foods.

Photo: Tourism Richmond

It stands to reason that a city with its own Dumpling Trail has a large and exceptional Asian culinary scene. And as the weather starts to cool down, you’ll want to turn your attention to dishes that warm both your body and soul — yes, we’re talking steamy hot pots and hearty noodle soups.

There’s certainly no shortage of hot pots in Richmond, starting with big chains like Liuyishou and HaiDiLao that have locations here. The Dolar Shop specializes in individual-sized hot pot, which is perfect for solo travelers or groups that can’t agree on what broth they want.

Richmond’s noodle soup options are just as extensive, whether you’re craving Taiwanese beef noodle soup (try Memory Corner or Uno Beef Noodle), ramen (head to G-men Ramen), or pho (drop by Pho 37). You can also get an immunity boost with the Chinese herbal chicken soup at Sang’s Kitchen.

Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival…

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Approximately three-quarters of Richmond’s population is Asian, with about half being of Chinese descent. That means the Mid-Autumn Festival, a harvest celebration observed in a number of Asian cultures, is a big deal in Richmond.

In the fall of 2024, there will be a Mid-Autumn celebration at Minoru Park held by Richmond’s community Gateway Theatre. Festivities include lantern-crafting sessions and a moonlit concert. Britannia Shipyards, a national historic site where Chinese workers lived and labored in the early 1900s, is also commemorating the festival with a lantern-crafting activity in the old Chinese bunkhouse. Elsewhere in Richmond, you can join the annual Mid-Autumn festivities at Asian malls like Lansdowne Centre and Aberdeen Centre.

Eating traditional Chinese baked goods called mooncakes is another major part of the Mid-Autumn Festival. There are a number of Asian bakeries around Richmond that sell mooncakes this time of year, including Kam Do Bakery and L’OTUS Cake Boutique (otherwise known for its excellent mille crepe cakes). At Shanghainese dim sum spot Suhang Restaurant, you can even try special savoury mooncakes — just be sure to call ahead, as they’re made-to-order.

…and have a Richmond-style Halloween.

Photo: Sarmiento Photography/Shutterstock

Halloween in Richmond is an all-ages affair, and one perennial highlight is the Richmond Country Farms pumpkin patch. In addition to a hay wagon ride to the pumpkin fields, the family-owned farm typically sets up fun activities like corn mazes, live music, and food trucks.

If you’re in Richmond on Halloween, stop by Minoru Arenas for some Halloween-theme skating (costumes encouraged) or head to the charming and historic Steveston Village community. The village goes all out with Halloween displays, local shops invite kids to trick or treat, and there’s a free fireworks show in Minoru Park. For something unique, you can also swing by the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site‘s Haunted Sea event to see a spooky display mixed with educational materials about ocean conservation.

There’s even an opportunity for costumed fun if you’re traveling to Richmond in September: the Big Pirate Run. This community run encourages participants to don pirate gear and choose their own pirate names to raise funds for the Richmond Food Bank Society. It’s not a Halloween event, but it’s a festive good time for a good cause.

Don’t forget to keep an eye out for wildlife.

Photo: Simon Ratcliffe/Tourism Richmond

The change of seasons also means a change in wildlife around Richmond. For one, migratory birds start to arrive in the area. British Columbia is on the Pacific Flyway — the north-south migration route that stretches from Alaska to South America — which means turkey vultures, trumpeter swans, warblers, and more can be spotted around Richmond this time of year.

Iona Beach Regional Park is a great place to go birding thanks to its different habitats, ranging from sand dunes to wetlands. Another birding hotspot is Garry Point Park, where you can find snow geese, herons, American robins, and more. Bald eagles also come to the area in the fall to feed, as it’s the start of salmon-spawning season…which brings us to the other wildlife highlight that begins in early fall: the salmon run.

During the annual salmon migration, adult salmon return from the ocean to the river, swimming upstream to their birthplace where they’ll spawn and die. Garry Point Park, located at the mouth of the Fraser River, is a great place to observe this phenomenon. Go in early fall (September-October) to catch the height of the salmon run.

In a year-round destination like Richmond, it’s hard to nominate a best season — but fall is a serious contender. Whether you prefer to eat your way across town, get festive at citywide celebrations, or spot the autumn wildlife, you’re gonna want to be there.