Matador Network's Blog, page 132

Missouri Knows Fine Dining. Here’s Where to Eat and Drink on Your Trip.

Picture this: You’re traveling across Missouri, devouring tender, slow-smoked barbecue and washing it down with ice-cold Budweisers. Then, out of nowhere, you get a hankering for elevated Balkan fare and Belgian ale, or chic Parisian bistro bites and crisp white wine. You’re in luck — in Missouri, you can find all those flavors and more, and the dining experience is going to be deluxe. Just ask the James Beard Foundation.

From Kansas City to St. Louis and plenty of places in between, James Beard Award winners and nominees are proving that Missouri is a culinary powerhouse even when there are no pitmasters in sight. Plus, there are plenty of exciting libations to pair with all that fine dining, brought to you by a cast of inventive brewers and local winemakers. As the craft beer revolution continues to sweep the state, wineries in the small towns of Augusta, Hermann, and Defiance are reclaiming Missouri’s historic wine heritage as the home of the very first American Viticultural Area (AVA) with elegant new offerings.

So consider this your invitation for a culinary-focused visit to the Show-Me State. Our recommendation? Come hungry. Here’s where to dine and drink for a taste of Missouri’s lofty foodie scene.

THE EATSLa Pâtisserie Chouquette

Simone Faure bakes the magic of France and the flair of New Orleans into imaginative sweet treats at her St. Louis pastry shop. Cakes and quiches, tarts and croissants — her creations blend French pastry traditions with nods to pop culture and history. Enjoy Faure’s delectable goods in-shop or take them home for later. If you’re interested in sampling a range of her very best, book a table for afternoon tea featuring Faure’s specialties, such as blackberry lavender tart and Creole crab quiche.

La Pâtisserie Chouquette: 1626 Tower Grove Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110

Yoli Tortilleria

Photo: Alyssa Broadus/Yoli Tortilleria

The name tells you all you need to know about this restaurant, a spot dedicated to making high-quality tortillas in Kansas City. Yoli, an Aztec word meaning “to live,” draws on Mesoamerican traditions such as nixtamalization (the process of soaking and cooking maize in an alkaline solution) to create tortillas of top quality and flavor. Choose from blue, red, white, or yellow corn tortillas and chips, which are best enjoyed with housemade salsas. The fire-roasted tomatillo and chile is a twist on a classic — something everyone will love — while the adventurous should try the chile, peanut, and black garlic blend.

Yoli Tortilleria: 1668 Jefferson St, Kansas City, MO 64108

The Antler Room

This Kansas City neighborhood eatery draws inspiration from the owners’ travels and the ever-changing bounties of the season. Dig into imaginative small plates — like spaghetti with miso black pepper cream and seared ahi tuna or falafel over smoked sweet potato hummus and herbed yogurt. Wash down your meal with a glass from the inspired wine list (focused on small-batch wineries) or go for one of the Antler Room’s inventive, liquor-forward libations.

The Antler Room: 2506 Holmes St, Kansas City, MO 64108

iNDO

Step inside this hip, brick-walled space in St. Louis’ Tower Grove neighborhood and embark on a journey through the flavors of Southeast Asia. iNDO is decorated with awards applauding its nuanced twist on regional favorites, presenting dishes that look as beautiful as they taste. Think dry-aged king salmon in a red curry cream sauce, shrimp toast, and a top-notch sashimi selection. The cocktail menu ups the cool factor another notch with drinks like Elixir of the Moon — a blend of Japanese gin, lemongrass-ginger shrub, and Lillet Blanc.

iNDO: 1641D Tower Grove Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110

Balkan Treat Box

Photo: Balkan Treat Box

This lunch-only spot in St. Louis’ Webster Groves neighborhood has won many accolades for its accessible, tasty bites that reflect old-world Balkan traditions. The menu is centered around Turkish flatbreads and wraps, from döner kebabs to lahmacun (thin, crispy, pizza-like flatbread). Dishes cater to vegans, vegetarians, and carnivores alike. Pair your meal with a Balkan draft beer and finish it off with a pistachio and rose-petal-topped rice pudding.

Balkan Treat Box: 8103 Big Bend Blvd, Webster Groves, MO 63119

The Town Company

Gather around a white-oak-burning hearth and embark on a culinary journey that reconceptualizes the Midwestern table. The small menu at this award-winning Kansas City establishment draws inspiration from chef Johnny Leach’s experience in the Pacific Northwest, the transforming seasons, and local products that farmers and ranchers have on offer. Taste your way through dishes like shrimp and octopus croquettes and carrots paired with arugula, stracciatella, and hibiscus — and don’t forget to sample the selection of classic cocktails and global wines.

The Town Company: 1228 Baltimore Ave, Kansas City, MO 64105

Waldo Thai

This family-owned restaurant in Waldo, just south of Kansas City, will whisk you away to the mountains of northern Thailand. Waldo Thai is an inviting space serving fresh, flavorful dishes that reflect the culinary traditions of the Lanna people. In addition to Thai favorites, choose from specialties like jackfruit and pork curry, sun-dried Thai beef jerky, and coconut curry with braised brisket. Quench your thirst with Thai twists on classic cocktails.

Waldo Thai: 8431 Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO 64114

Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room

Photo: Jenny Wheat/Corvino

This well-loved Kansas City spot blends two distinct dining concepts into one refined space. Share small plates to the tune of live music in the Supper Club on a night out with friends. For a more intimate experience, book a table in the Tasting Room where you can sample Chef Michael Corvino’s seasonal tasting menu and watch the chefs work their magic while you dine. Both menus are inspired by Corvino’s upbringing in the Northwest, featuring plates such as shells and clams in garlic and white wine, seaweed donuts with trout roe, and halibut in coconut milk and passion fruit.

Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room: 1830 Walnut St, Kansas City, MO 64108

Brasserie by Niche

This chic and cozy cafe is Missouri’s answer to a Parisian bistro, where you can dig into French classics with a twist. For brunch, choose between favorites like croque madame and quiche. An order of crisp, fluffy beignets with a side of plum compote is a must. Over dinner, dig into a bowl of wine- and garlic-drenched mussels, braised beets, escargot, and French onion soup — and then, finish it with a selection of French cheese.

Brasserie by Niche: 4580 Laclede Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108

THE DRINKSDefiance Ridge Vineyards

Photo: Defiance Ridge Vineyards

Set among the rolling green hills of Historic Missouri Wine Country, Defiance Ridge offers reserve and non-reserve tastings of local and West Coast wines. After you’ve sampled Missouri vintages like Chardonel (a Chardonnay and Seyval Blanc cross) and Norton (Missouri’s official grape), grab a seat at a picnic-style table on the captivating property and take in views of the lush scenery. Order a bottle and country-inspired lunch — from cheese boards and dips to salads and sandwiches — and stay a while.

Defiance Ridge Vineyards: 2711 S Missouri 94, Defiance, MO 63341

Side Project Brewing

Side Project does things differently than your average craft brewery. Owners and brewers Cory and Karen King have blended their love for Belgian-style ales, wine, and traveling into a project dedicated to crafting one-of-a-kind barrel-aged wild ales. Saisons and lambics aged in Missouri oak, Belgian ales aged in bourbon barrels, and a wheat beer aged in wine barrels are among the creative brews you can sample at Side Project’s tasting room in Maplewood.

Side Project Brewing: 7458 Manchester Rd, Maplewood, MO 63143

Perennial Artisan Ales

This casual St. Louis-based brewery’s mission is simple: craft delicious beers that the owners want to drink and hope other beer lovers will as well. Stop by and sip Perennial’s adventurous offerings, including hazy IPAs and hoppy pilsners, a chamomile-brewed saison, and a pink-peppercorn-infused wheat beer. The list of boundary-pushing pours is always evolving. Note: They also have a brewpub location in Webster Groves.

Perennial Artisan Ales: 8125 Michigan Ave, St. Louis, MO 63111

Chandler Hill Vineyards

Photo: Chandler Hill Vineyards/

Set on a historic property, Chandler Hill has staked its claim as a premier winery in Missouri’s wine country. The winery’s deck sits among vineyards, overlooks ponds, and has breathtaking views of the Osage Valley. You’ll be delighted as you sip through Chandler Hill’s menu of Missouri and West Coast varietals. True wine enthusiasts can book a Barrel Room tasting experience to learn more about the heritage of this esteemed Missouri winery.

Chandler Hill Vineyards: 596 Defiance Rd, Defiance, MO 63341

Boulevard Brewing Company

Since its origins in the late 1980s, this Kansas City brewery has become the largest specialty brewer in the Midwest. Boulevard blends old and new techniques to create flavor-forward beers with community and environmental sustainability as its foundation. The community-oriented space regularly holds events, trivia, music, and more — it’s a lively atmosphere perfect for savoring cosmic IPAs, unfiltered beers, or peach wheat beer, among an array of other drinks.

Boulevard Brewing Company: 2534 Madison Ave, Kansas City, MO 64108

Mother’s Brewing Company

Mother’s Brewing puts Springfield on the map because it brews delicious beers with love. Tropical pale ales, Oktoberfest lagers, sour wheats, and coffee stouts are among the impressive lineup of seasonal and year-round pours at this independent microbrewery in southwestern Missouri.

Mother’s Brewing Company: 215 S Grant Ave, Springfield, MO 65806

Stone Hill Winery

Photo: Stone Hill Winery

During the pre-Prohibition era, Stone Hill Winery was the nation’s second-largest vineyard. Farmers Jim and Betty Held bought the remnants of Stone Hill in the mid-1960s and slowly restored the historic estate to a working winery. Today, you can sample the fruits of their labor in the form of local varietals like Vignoles, Vidal Blanc, Chardonel, and Norton. While there, take a walk through the underground cellars and soak up the spectacular views.

Stone Hill Winery: 1110 Stone Hill Hwy, Hermann, MO 65041

The Gin Room

From its first imaginings in 2014, The Gin Room has become a mecca for lovers of the botanical spirit in the heart of historic St. Louis. This 2023 James Beard nominee semifinalist has over 300 gins from around the world on offer. Taste your way through the menu of classic tonic blends, martinis, and creative cocktails, or brush up on your gin knowledge with a guided tasting or class.

The Gin Room: 3200 S Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63118

Santa Fe’s ‘Burning of Zozobra’ Turns 100 This Year, and There’s Never Been a Better Time to Burn Your ‘Glooms’

Regardless of how you feel about Burning Man, there’s no denying that it’s become a cultural symbol for better or for worse with impressive art installations and collaborations in the desert that are then reset by fire. Burning Man started in 1986. More than half a century before, people in Santa Fe, New Mexico, were already using fire as a cleanser with the Burning of Zozobra.

Every year since 1924, Santa Fe has hosted the Burning of Zozobra. The “Old Man Gloom” is a 50-foot-6-inch tall marionette that’s stuffed with pieces of paper that participants have added to represents something negative in their life that they are ready to move on from — the “glooms.” Once those are all added, Old Man Gloom weighs some 3,000 pounds. Then the whole thing is set on fire.

Zozobra is not just a marionette stand-in, either — he can move his arms and head, and the mouth opens to emit a growl. The Fire Spirit, a component of the event for decades and now played by Santa Fe dancer Helene Luna, dances toward the creature in a headdress, red costume, and two torches to end Zozobra’s rath.

Over 60,000 people attend the event every year, and hundreds of thousands turn on the livestream to watch online. Zozobra Field at Fort Marcy Park is filled with live music, dance performances, food trucks, a beer garden, and merchandise booths. It’s all a lead up to the burning itself, which includes a fireworks display. The whole experience is kid friendly (though for safety reasons strollers and wagons aren’t allowed).

This year, the 100th anniversary calls for some special features. A 130-food-tall hot air balloon shaped like Zozobra will fly on August 30 (and at the 2024 Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta). Well-known Santa Fe artists collaborated on 32 painted, 4-foot-tall Zozobra figures that have been around the city since May in a public art project. New Mexico’s Gruet Winery, which makes some of the best affordable sparkling wine in the country, is making a 100th anniversary bubbly, and Marble Brewery is creating a collaboration craft beer. A musical about Zozobra is set to premier, and the New Mexico History Museum and New Mexico Museum of Art have special exhibits starting in March.

It wouldn’t be a full experience without knowing your own gloom is going up in smoke at the main event, of course. Glooms can be added up until 8:00 PM either online or at a designated Gloom Box (locations are around Santa Fe, though there’s also a box on the grounds for last minute additions). You don’t have to overthink your gloom, you just need to have it on paper. Common glooms include handwritten notes, photos, divorce decrees, and legal papers and police reports (just make sure you don’t need them again).

To put it succinctly, there’s no better time to see the official burning of Zozobra — whether it’s for the first time or the hundredth.

How Zozobra started

Photo: Tourism Santa Fe

Though it’s a public spectacle today, Zozobra’s roots started at a private party for the New Mexico artist and writer group Los Cinco Pintores in 1924. Artist William Howard Shuster, Jr. created the first one drawing inspiration from the Yaqui Indian Easter Holy Week tradition of parading a Judas effigy on a donkey before setting it aflame. The name comes from the Spanish word for “anguish, anxiety, or gloom,” and was picked by Shuster and his friend and newspaper editor E. Dana Johnson.

Back then, it was only the height of the average adult man and burned in his backyard. The marionette has always been part ghost and part monster, and frankly something that is kind of nice to see go up in flames.

The first public burning was in 1926. The Santa Fe New Mexican covered the event in the September 2, 1926 edition, according to the official Zozobra site:

“Following vespers at the Cathedral, a long procession headed by the Conquistadores Band marched to the vacant space back of the City Hall, where Zozobra, a hideous effigy figure, 20 feet high, produced by the magic wand of Will Shuster, stood in ghastly silence, illuminated by weird, green fires. While the band played a funeral march, a group of Kiwanians in black robes and hoods stole around the figure, with four others seated before the green fires.”

Shots were fired at Zozobra, the bonfires ignited, and the whole thing lit up in flames and fireworks before dances and “the biggest crowd of native merrymakers seen here for years,” the report continued.

Photo: Tourism Santa Fe

Shuster himself was involved in the Zozobra construction until 1964. That year, he passed his model, scripts, and archive drawings to the Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe. They continue the tradition to this day, including a note that Will Shuster sent after that first burning: “After the flames consumed the effigy, and the embers faded into the starlit Santa Fe sky, we stood together, a group unburdened. In the ashes of this effigy lay the worries of the past year, and from them, we shall rise anew, our spirits ablaze with hope and renewal. Tonight, we have not just witnessed a spectacle; we have participated in a sacred rite of purification, laughter, and rebirth.”

Getting to Zozobra for the 100th anniversary celebration

The main event happens on August 30 this year (it’s traditionally on the Friday before Labor Day), though Zozobra activations throughout Santa Fe make an earlier arrival worthwhile. Plan to stay longer, as it’s only the start of the Fiestas de Santa Fe where cultural celebrations abound.

Event tickets often sell out, but you can purchase them online on the event page ($35 for general admission when purchased ahead of time or $40 at the gate, but kids 10 and under are always free). The gates open and entertainment starts at 4:00 PM, with official ceremonies beginning at 6:00 PM. Don’t get there later than 8:00 PM to catch the main event — and note that the burning happens rain or shine.

The event takes place at Zozobra Field at Fort Marcy Park in Santa Fe. Shuttles will run from the South Capital Rail Runner station until 8:30 PM.

More like thisTravel9 Experiences to Reinvigorate Your Senses in and Around Santa Fe, NM

Sleep Near the Slopes and the Pubs at These Breckenridge Airbnbs

Eighty miles west of Denver, beautiful Breckenridge gives you a taste of everything Colorado is revered for. Skiing, boarding, and sledging steal the show in winter and early spring whereas summer and fall in Summit County revolve around hiking, mountain biking, rafting, horse riding, fly fishing, and festivals. There’s never a bad time to experience Breck’s booming craft beer scene and mooch around historic downtown. These Breckenridge Airbnbs near the Rockies and Main Street are awesome in all seasons.

We hope you love these Airbnb Breckenridge vacation rentals! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Luxury slopeside chalet in the Tenmile RangePhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosSnowflake Château sits directly on the Beaver Run base area and has easy ski-out and moderate ski-in privileges. After a day in the mountains, you’ll return to a bubbling hot tub, private sauna, and fireside hot chocolate. Vaulted ceilings and timber beams create the coziest après vibe. Comprising five en suites, one bunk room, and extra beds in the loft and lounge, it’s the best Airbnb in Breckenridge for larger groups.

Sixteen+ guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,370 per night

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Backcountry Colorado cabin for couplesPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosCome hibernate – or elope – in the Pike National Forest at this beautifully boutique A-frame with an upscale Scandinavian feel. The lounge and attic are tricked out with fluffy throws and woven rugs to keep you warm while the snow blankets the deck. Despite its teensy size, the cabin has a full kitchen and laundry facilities. To help lighten the load, the host provides waffle robes, hiking poles, and backpacks.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $256 per night

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Breck Historic District Airbnb near buses and brewpubsPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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This three-bedroom detached house with a private backyard and hot tub stands steps from Main Street. There’s a Free Ride bus stop right outside and most downtown spots are walkable. Families with younger children and adult groups alike will find something to like, be it the pile of sleds, the poker set, or the secure storage for snow gear and bikes.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $320 per night

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Summit County mountain retreat with a hot tub and saunaPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis four-bedroom house with a spa, ski racks, and an EV charger enjoys a peaceful setting minutes from Main Street, ski areas, and biking trails. There’s space aplenty for congregating in the main living room whereas the second lounge has foosball and poker for entertainment. Enhanced safety features, baby gates, and a miscellany of toddler essentials make it one of the most family-friendly Breckenridge Airbnbs.

Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $315 per night

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A-frame Airbnb with a forest spa in Breckenridge HeightsPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosYou’ll be flabbergasted to hear this classic cabin has stood just off the Boreal Pass since the 1970s. The current owners freshened up their new abode with extra heating to handle Colorado’s frosty winters, a shiny quartz kitchen, and elegant pendant lighting. The deck and jacuzzi are perfect for stargazing and drinking up the mountain air while hiking trails start from the door. It’s lovely for small-group weekenders or special anniversaries.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $400 per night

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VIP family penthouse at Breckenridge Ski ResortPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosLive the baller lifestyle in Summit County at this condo rental in One Ski Hill Place complete with a communal pool, hot tub, and a ski concierge service. The resort bowling alley and movie theater are available for private hire. There’s a bunk with a double bottom in the second room and Peak 8’s beginner slopes are steps away, making this a top-pick Summit County Airbnb for younger kids.

Seven guests, two bedrooms
Price: $406 per night

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Pet-friendly Airbnb in downtown BreckenridgePhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosWalk, bike, or ski anywhere from this storybook Victorian home three blocks from Main Street. For anything else, jump on the Free Ride. The three-king, two-queen vacation rental is dotted with alpine artwork and has a handy Alexa system. A secondary lounge comes in handy when the house is at capacity. At the rear, the light-flooded kitchen overlooks the private spa tub and fenced backyard where dogs can play.

Ten guests, five bedrooms
Price: $500 per night

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“Stormbunker” on Boreas Pass near shuttle busPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosBunker down at this designer Airbnb in Breckenridge with an open concept and nature views from all angles. Served by the Boreas Pass Loop, the lodge sits within two private acres of forest five minutes from Main Street. Peppercorn accent walls and hardwood flooring are complemented by purposely mismatched furniture to create a homely atmosphere. There’s a telescope and hot tub for entertainment and a mudroom for stashing outdoor apparel.

Twelve guests, four bedrooms
Price: $373 per night

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Ski-in, ski-out Airbnb with Breck resort viewsPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis alpine-inspired apartment at Peak 9 suits couples eager to beat the gondola lines and walk to après joints. Suss out the snow conditions from bed over morning coffee – those piste-view windows are as reliable as any weather app – and hop straight on the Quicksilver lift. The ski inn has two pools, a jacuzzi, a steam room, and a sauna for blitzing aching muscles.

Four guests, studio
Price: $130 per night

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Airbnb Luxe villa near Breckenridge Ski ResortPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis modern mountain lodge in the coveted Christie Heights enclave is equidistant from Breck’s ski lifts, Cucumber Gulch, and Main Street. Crafted from wood, stone, and marble with panoramic windows throughout, the home blends into the Colorado setting seamlessly. A hot tub and fire pit are installed in the backyard overlooking the pine forest. Luxury add-on services include fridge stocking and housekeeping.

Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $725 per night

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Cute adventure pad with seasonal resort facilitiesPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosMinutes from the Snowflake Lift, this downtown Breckenridge Airbnb has in-unit ski storage. It’s fabulously equipped for self-catering with a full kitchen, squashy couches, and a balcony in the bedroom. The shared swimming pool and hot tub are open during summer and winter. Main Street and the Art’s District are within walking distance and the Breck Free Ride sees to everything else.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $160 per night

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One of the Largest LGBTQIA+ Parties in the US Happens This August

Carnival is just around the corner — at least if you live in Cape Cod.

For many people world, Carnival is the period of celebration and indulgence that ends on Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday. For people who observe Christian traditions, it’s followed by Lent, the period of fasting and reflection that ends on Easter Day. That makes Carnival celebration in most places take place some time in February, though celebrations can start in January in places like Italy or Jamaica.

But a New England community in Cape Cod, MA, has been bucking tradition for more than 40 years, following the introduction of the now-annual Provincetown Carnival in 1978. That’s when a group of gay area hotel owners decided to start a summer event both to bring traffic to the community, and to celebrate the town’s creative and welcoming LGBTQIA+ culture. Recently, Provincetown Carnival has attracted more than 90,000 spectators per year, drawn by events like the opening costume party, pool parties, drag shows, concerts, and the ever-popular downtown Provincetown Carnival parade.

A visitor poses with celebrants during the 2019 Provincetown Carnival. Photo: Vadim 777/Shutterstock

The theme for 2024’s Provincetown Carnival is “Renaissance X Revolution,” happening August 17-24. New events for the year include a town hall concert with opera singer and drag performer Sapphira Cristál of RuPaul’s Drag Race fame, who is also serving as one of three Grand Marshalls in the signature parade through the coastal town. Public events like the parade are free to attend, but individual events have entry fees ranging from $15 to $60. Tickets are available in advance online. 

Provincetown has no shortage of cute Airbnbs and small, boutique hotels and lodges. But for 2024, there’s a new option for day visitors. Festival organizers announced that Boston Harbor City Cruise ferries will be running until 9 PM during Provincetown Carnival, allowing visitors from Boston to stay through dinner and still make it back to the city for bed.

 

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Provincetown has long been considered one of the most gay-friendly towns in the United States, with a rich LGBTQIA+ history dating to the early 20th century. The town’s bohemian art colony atmosphere was a draw for artists, writers, and other creative types, as it was a place where they could express themselves freely away from established urban areas like Boston. That tolerance and open-mindedness was a draw for individuals who wanted to express themselves in a time when society was less accepting of non-conformity, including LGBTQIA+ people. By the time the 1960s rolled around, the town was established as a safe haven for gay visitors and residents (and just about anyone else, too).

Visitors who can’t make it Provincetown Carnival may want to instead visit later in the year during one of the town’s other events, like Women’s Week or Trans Week (both in October) or the “Holly Folly” Holiday celebrations in early December. 

More like thisTravelA Town-by-Town Guide to Cape Cod

Our Editors Tested These Minimalist Travel Wallets, and There’s One Clear Winner

Having a good travel wallet is as important as having dependable luggage. Yes, wallets are much smaller – but they maintain your access to money, identification, and other stuff you stick in there that is obviously important or else you wouldn’t have put it in your wallet in the first place. When choosing a travel wallet, less is more – when you’re on the road, you want things that are efficient without taking up a lot of space. The travel wallets reviewed here were tested by Matador staff, in some cases over many years of frequent international travel. Of what’s reviewed here, the Nomatic Wallet is the best deal for the money, and also lasted one editor nearly 10 years before needing to be replaced (he bought another of the same wallet, as a testament to its effectiveness).

We hope you love these minimalist travel wallets! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page.

Jump to a review:

Aviator Slim Wallet
Bellroy Card Sleeve
Nomatic Wallet
Disney wallet

 

Aviator Slim WalletBellroy Card SleeveNomatic WalletDisney WalletPrice: $110Price: $55Price: $19.99Price: Not highHolds up to 20 cardsHolds up to 8 cardsHolds up to 15 cardsFolds like a traditional wallet with card slots and cash slotHard-sided aluminum, won’t bend or breakSleek and thin responsibly-sourced leatherElastic leather and polyesterCheap materialsCash clipTwo cash sleevesHidden cash sleeveTraditional cash slotAviator Slim WalletPhoto: Suzie DundasTravel wallets usually carry only a bit of cash and a few cards. Photo: Suzie DundasPhoto: Aren Saltiel

The Aviator Slim Wallet’s compact size and lightweight design make it an ideal travel wallet because it can literally fit into any pocket – in your pants, jacket, or bag.Matador’s outdoor editor got this wallet for her husband to replace the ragged old wallet held together by duct tape that he refused to give up on his own, and they both feel they’re the better for it. It can withstand the rigors of travel while securely holding up to 20 cards, with a cash clip that makes it easy to grab bills and keep stacks of different types of currency separate. It has an adjustable elastic band to prevent the wallet from stretching out. It can hold up to 20 cards and has an optional cash clip. It has a 10-year warranty and sells for $105. It is 3.4” x 2.12”.

Capacity: Holds up to 20 cards
Dimensions: 3.4” x 2.12”
Materials: Aluminum
Features: Pull strap for easy card access, integrated coin pocket, optional cash clip, RFID protection (varies by model)
Size and colors: Approximately credit card size, available in different colors and finishes.

Price: $110

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Aviator Slim Wallet

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Bellroy Card SleevePhoto: Suzie DundasPhoto: Suzie Dundas

The Bellroy Card Sleeve is a minimalist travel wallet, one of the smallest in the Bellroy line. It is made of environmentally conscious leather, and has a slim profile at 7 mm wide. This was another wallet Matador’s outdoor editor got for her husband, and it can hold up to eight cards and has two cutouts for cash, meaning you can keep different currencies separate if traveling internationally. There’s also a pull tab for easy access to cards. It has a sleek design and sells for half the cost of the Aviator Slim Wallet.

Capacity: Holds up to 8 cards
Dimensions: Approximately 4.13 inches x 2.76 inches x 0.28 inches
Weight: Around 0.67 ounces
Materials: Leather and cotton (or MIRUM® plant-based leather alternative)
Features: Quick-draw slots on front and back, pull-tab access to stacked cards in center pocket, minimal design with no linings or zips.

Price: $55

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Bellroy Card Sleeve

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Nomatic WalletPhoto: Tim WengerPhoto: Tim WengerPhoto: Tim WengerPhoto: Tim Wenger

Matador’s gear editor used to be a Costanza wallet guy – until he got a Nomatic Wallet. The wallet helped him slim down what he carried from a bunch of random nonsense to just the essential cards, ID, and cash. The pull tab slides all contents out for easy selection when it’s time to pay for something, and the separate cash sleeve on the outside holds a few bills without making the wallet bulge. It’s easy, reliable, and lasted him nearly a decade until he finally had to buy a new one.

Capacity: Holds up to 15 cards depending on thickness
Materials: Elastic leather, polyester
Dimensions: 3.4 inches x 2.2 inches x 0.1 inches
Weight: 0.60 ounces
Features: Slim profile, hidden cash holder, key holder pocket, lifetime warranty

Price: $19.99

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Nomatic Wallet

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Disney walletPhoto: Debbie Gonzalez CanadaPhoto: Debbie Gonzalez Canada

Of course there are the pessimists among us. Those who refuse to jump on the bandwagon of trendy travel wallets, and instead opt to hold onto the nostalgia of their younger days. Matador’s SEO editor has traveled and lived abroad for years with the same cheap Disney wallet she bought 20 years ago. Thing is, even this Disney wallet forces her to be a minimalist, which she naturally isn’t. It doesn’t have RFID technology, it’s not washable, and in her opinion it could be a bit longer to accommodate currencies that use large bills – but overall, it’s done just fine and she expects it to continue to do so well into the future. Plus, it’s got Mickey on it, and is an epic conversation starter. In her detailed review, there are numerous options for Disney-themed wallets that are similar and will hold up for you on the road.

Check out Matador’s detailed review of a 20-year-old Mickey Mouse wallet

Price: Varies

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These Indestructible Sunglasses Are the Best for Outdoor Activities

Maybe it’s the ADHD, or maybe I’m just cursed. I’ve never been good at hanging onto a pair of sunglasses. As a journalist who regularly reviews outdoor gear, I always jump on the sunglasses beat because I know that by the time a new pair arrives I’ll have lost the one currently on my head. In that sense, Ombraz sunglasses were made just for me. Ombraz founder Jensen Brehm came up with the idea for armless sunglasses after losing his shades on a camel safari in Africa. If it were me, I’d have lost my sunglasses on the plane on the way to the safari. Sunglasses that you literally can’t lose once you put them on should be a perfect fit, right?

Still, after obtaining a pair of Ombraz Classics a few years ago, I was at first reluctant to wear them in public. Holding them in my hand, they looked weird to me, like something was missing. I couldn’t just slide them over my ears, but had to fully put the strap over my head and tighten it. Looking at myself in the mirror while wearing the Classics, I couldn’t get over how circular they looked compared to the more rectangular shades I normally bought. And where’s the arms? Aren’t they an important part of looking and feeling cool in a pair of shades?

Shortly thereafter I’d take them with me to a conference only to have a female acquaintance say over a round of patio drinks, “I see you brought your ‘no-sexy-time’ sunglasses.”

As evidenced by the ego hit above, I got over my inhibitions and started wearing the Ombraz Classics around. My initial off-puttings were promptly disproved, as I’ll get into below. When it comes to gear that comes with me on a trip, a day on the river, or most importantly, a week-long expedition into the Tien Shan Mountains along the Kyrgyzstan-China border, I care more about function than fashion. I’ve never owned a pair of sunglasses more durable and high-performance than Ombraz. They’re more than worth the $160 price tag.

We hope you love Ombraz sunglasses! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page.

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Putting Ombraz sunglasses to the test

River style. Photo: Tim Wenger

I first wore my Ombraz Classics on a hike near home in western Colorado. I started with the strap a bit loose in the back, where it sat comfortably but jiggled once I started ascending. Within the first mile tightened the strap. This made the shades feel far closer to tradition armed sunglasses, and also kept them firmly on my nose and eyes. Since that first hike I’ve appreciated how easy it is to adjust Ombraz shades on the fly, based on how tight you need them in the moment.

Ombraz really shine during higher-impact activities. The brand claims they are indestructible – that you can literally run them over with a car and the frames won’t snap. I haven’t done that, but I have put them through a ringer of outdoor activities and long-haul travel. I brought them along on a four-day river trip down the lower Salmon River in Idaho, and was impressed not only with how they stayed firmly on my head no matter how choppy the water got but also by how clearly I could see even when the sun was reflecting off the water right at me. The polarized lenses and 100% UVA/UVB Protection kept my eyesight fresh even after being on the water all day, whereas with certain other shades I’ve worn on the river – like non-polarized or pairs that don’t hug as close to my face – I can feel the sun burning my eyes after a couple hours. The brand recently dropped a Floatie that attaches to the strap and prevents the shades from drowning in the rare case they end up in the water.

High alpine style. Photo courtesy of Tim Wenger

The biggest test I put the Ombraz Classics through, though, was the weeklong splitboard expedition in Kyrgyzstan I mentioned above. This trip had me out on the skin track all day for seven straight days – high above treeline where all that was around us was white snow reflecting the sun from below as it beat down on us from above. Ski touring is an interesting test for sunglasses because, like on the water, the sun hits from all angles and you need protection from above, below, and the sides. Also, you’re wearing a lot of other gear and are regularly adding and dropping layers or swapping between a hat and a helmet. Also, though goggles are more associated with skiing and snowboarding than sunglasses, when touring you spend more than 90 percent of the time ascending, so the sunglasses are actually far more important than the goggles – I even used the Ombraz shades for the descent a couple of times when my goggles were fogged. I have no issues to report from the experience.

Ombraz represents my environmental ethics

Display style. Photo: Tim Wenger

Part of Brehm and cofounder Nikolai Paloni’s mission with Ombraz is to produce a product that makes the world a better place. As documented in its Net Benefit Impact report, the company plants 20 mangrove trees for every pair of sunglasses it sells. It calculated that each pair of shades, made from polyamide, recycled nylon, nylon, and thermoplastic polyuethane, emits 3.6 kg of CO2 equivalent, including delivering them to customers. Over the course of 20 years, according to the report, each cluster of 20 mangrove trees sequestors 6,168 kg of carbon. Give or take a bit on both metrics, the brand still has a net-positive impact.

Ombraz claims its sunglasses are the most carbon-negative product on the planet, with verification from third-party auditor Greenticket, and the brand is working to make future generations of its sunglasses biodegradable in order to have a fully circular product. In the meantime, the company is moving all of its production and shipping operations to Italy in order to eliminate shipping between production and warehousing. Many in the outdoor space are familiar with Patagonia’s business ethos, and it’s equally – if not far more – impressive for a much smaller product brand like Ombraz, which has far fewer financial resources to work with, to have such a clear picture of its environmental impact and how to minimize it.

On top of the offsetting and emissions reduction work, however, having a pair of sunglasses that actually lasts a long time is more sustainable in itself. Although I mostly use Ombraz for outdoor activities, I’ve cycled through far fewer pairs of sunglasses since I started wearing these, because most of the glasses I’d lose or break happened either while traveling or outdoors.

Three years later, I left the Ombraz Classics in a hotel room in Los Angeles. The irony being that hopefully someone took them and will use them, continuing their non-breakable saga for a few more years. Putting on a “regular” pair of sunglasses again, I finally admitted it to myself. Ombraz shades aren’t meant to make me look like Keanu or Biden or Bono, either of whom can walk into a dark room with sunglasses on and emanate nothing but coolness. Rather, they’re workhorses, meant for the road and trail, protecting my eyes from the sun and the debris that inevitably flies into my face when I’m working hard outdoors. The Ombraz Classics is the best and most reliable pair of sunglasses I’ve ever owned, bar none. I’ve since acquired two more pairs – including one of the new Cammina style – and they’ll be guarding my eyes from the glare of the snowbound sun the next time I venture into the high alpine, and the next time I put into a raging river and need a clear line of sight downstream.

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Rome’s ‘Queen of Roads’ Is the Latest Italian UNESCO World Heritage Site

Culture- and history-motivated travelers are probably familiar with UNESCO World Heritage Sites. And if you’ve been to Italy, a country packed with some of the world’s most famous historical attractions and art, you may not be shocked to learn the country now has 60 World Heritage Sites, with the latest addition of the Appian Way, added in late July of 2024.

UNESCO stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, and is a special agency within the United Nations focused on promoting international cooperation in education, arts, sciences, and culture.

Essentially, UNESCO works to protect and preserve sites deemed to be of global importance to society’s shared cultural history. And that’s certainly true of the newly added Appian Way, the first highway in Italy built in the days of the ancient Roman Republic and one of the most important historical sites in Europe.

The Appian Way ran for roughly 500 miles through what’s now modern-day Italy. Photo: ValerioMei/Shutterstock

It was constructed in 312 BCE and was Rome’s initial attempt at large-scale road engineering. This strategic artery connected the city to its southern territories, facilitating military campaigns, trade, and communication.

Its advanced construction methods were unparalleled for its time. It ran for about 500 miles and became known as the “Queen of Roads” for its significance, both in terms of size and as the main thoroughfare used to move the famously successful Roman armies around Europe and beyond. Soon, however, it became used for trade and movement of people, ideas, and skills around Italy, contributing to Rome’s reputation as a bright light for creativity and engineering.

The road was built in several layers, including a flat layer as a base, a drainage layer, a thick layer to prevent wear, and a top layer with interlocking stones to hold the road in place, which is still present today. To construct it, Roman engineers had to level hillsides, swamps, marshes, and other nearly impassable terrain.

While remnants of its original grandeur persist, the Appian Way is now much harder to find than it once was, as time, weather, and subsequent civilizations have taken their toll. It’s now a historical relic lined with ancient tombs and ruins, but still one of the most visited tourist sites in Rome. The most well-preserved and accessible section of the Appian Way is in the Parco Regionale dell’Appia Antica in Rome (beginning near the Porta San Sebastiano), where visitors can walk or bike on the original Roman roadbed. At 500 miles, the Appian Way continued far beyond Rome, but the sections outside the city have been more impacted by time and development.

23 other sites were also added to the list

Part of the new Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites n South Africa. Photo: paul saad/Shutterstock

The process of selecting UNESCO World Heritage Sites is rigorous, and sites must first be nominated by the country in which they’re located. This nomination requires substantial documentation outlining the site’s significance, from its cultural and historical importance to natural beauty and biodiversity.

Once nominated, a site undergoes a comprehensive evaluation by the World Heritage Committee. The evaluation assesses the site’s authenticity, integrity, and potential for preservation. The Appian Way was one of 24 new sites around the world added in July 24. Other locations deemed to be of global significance include:

The Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites, South Africa

The Human Rights, Liberation and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites are a new UNESCO World Heritage collection of 14 locations across South Africa. These sites represent key moments in the country’s struggle against Apartheid and role of freedom fighter and former president Nelson Mandela. From the brutal Sharpeville Massacre to the iconic Union Buildings, where Nelson Mandela was inaugurated as South Africa’s first Black president, the places were selected based on the story they tell of the fight for freedom, equality, and reconciliation.

The Schwerin Residence Ensemble, Germany

Photo: Pani Garmyder/Shutterstock

This massive (and beautiful) home on an island is the pinnacle of 19th century German court culture.

The complex includes more than 30 buildings, including the Grand Duke’s Palace, administrative structures, and cultural venues. Its architectural styles range from Neo-Renaissance to Neo-Baroque, reflecting the historicist spirit of the era. Surrounded by water and parkland, the ensemble offers a stunning example of how a city can be integrated with a royal residence, creating a harmonious urban and architectural landscape. It’s open for tours six days a week.

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is a natural wonder in northeastern Brazil. It’s known for vast white sand dunes that can look like sails ripping in the wind, with a truly unique and otherworldly landscape. During the rainy season, rainwater often collects in the valleys between the dunes, creating crystal-clear lagoons. The park supports a diverse range of wildlife, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism in Brazil. Travelers can visit by booking tours beginning in the nearby town of Barreirinhas, usually in 4×4 vehicles able to navigate the sand dunes.

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A Sustainable Travel Guide to Vermont’s Legendary Green Scene

Welcome to Vermont, a state where adventurous spirits are drawn to the distinct local flavor and the allure of the Green Mountains. A state where you’re pretty much guaranteed lush forested peaks as backdrop for your vacation photos. And a state where sustainability isn’t a buzzword — it’s a way of life.

So nature enthusiasts, rejoice! Vermont’s got your back year-round with a range of eco-friendly activities. Whether you’re shredding the slopes in winter, leaf-peeping in fall, or kayaking the state’s many waterways under the summer sun, Vermont promises unforgettable adventures, all served with a side of environmental stewardship. The same goes for accommodations. From cozy farm stays where you can milk a cow before breakfast to quaint village inns and swanky hotels in the center of town, you’ll find plenty of spots that prioritize the planet without skimping on comfort or style.

Pack your bags and get ready to experience the best of Vermont while keeping the environment top of mind.

Enjoy year-round outdoor recreation, intentionally.

Photo: Adam Wilding/Shutterstock

No matter the season, Vermont is an ideal destination for outdoor recreation, but what really makes it shine is communities’ commitment to the natural world. Take Craftsbury Outdoor Center. This non-profit in the Northeast Kingdom isn’t just focused on outdoor fun like cycling, sculling, and cross-country skiing — it’s all about eco-conscious practices, too. The organization’s Activity Center, opened in 2014, was constructed using locally sourced materials and features solar panels and passive solar heating, making a visit to this facility a perfect mix of adventure and green living.

Vermont’s ski resorts also get in on the eco-action. Jay Peak, near the Canadian border, is one great example. The resort recently underwent a major overhaul, executing one of Vermont’s most ambitious carbon-reduction projects and one of the largest in the ski industry. It involved installing a three-megawatt electric boiler to reduce carbon emissions from heating. Jay Peak’s expanded partnership with ECOLAB will also save millions of gallons of water annually.

And let’s not forget about Vermont’s incredible trail organizations. The Green Mountain Club maintains the Long Trail system of backcountry hiking trails, and the Catamount Trail Association promotes stewardship for a network of world-class backcountry ski terrain. Meanwhile, the Vermont Huts Association is busy building the most innovative hut-supported mountain-biking trail system in the country. These organizations are committed to keeping Vermont’s trails pristine while protecting vital ecosystems and wildlife habitats, striking a balance between outdoor fun and ecological preservation. With others following their lead, Vermont’s natural beauty will remain intact for generations to come.

Try your hand at farm-hopping…

Photo: Fat Sheep Farm & Cabins

While in Vermont, dive into the state’s lively regenerative agriculture scene. Each farm offers a peek into sustainable agriculture with hands-on fun, tours, and farm-to-table treats.

Head to Vermont’s verdant Upper Valley where Cedar Circle Farm & Education Center, located along the Connecticut River in East Thetford, welcomes you with organic goodies and a friendly vibe. Beyond growing all sorts of veggies and berries, Cedar Circle has a farmstand, retail greenhouses, an on-site farm kitchen, a coffee shop, a unique Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, and workshops. Don’t miss the chance to pick your own seasonal strawberries, blueberries, flowers, and pumpkins. This isn’t just a farm — it’s a place to connect with your food and the people who grow it.

On the western side of the state, Larson Farm and Creamery in Wells is a delightful spot where you can meet grass-fed cows and sample fresh dairy products. Enjoy the Vermont sunshine while tasting raw milk, butter, yogurt, and more at the farm store. Or, for a more in-depth look at everything Larson Farm has going on, call ahead for a tour.

Over in Northfield near Montpelier, Green Mountain Girls Farm is another operation that’s all about regenerative agriculture. There’s fresh meat, eggs, veggies, and goat milk for sale at the farm, but for a truly memorable visit, keep an eye out for events at the Barn Guesthouse. Try your hand at milking, egg collecting, or being a farmer-in-training — it’s the perfect way to embrace farm-to-table living while doing your bit for the planet.

…or even stay at one!

Photo: Photo: Hill Farm Inn

Why settle for a quick farm visit when you can stay overnight? Green Mountain Girls Farm opens the doors to its Farmhouse Inn for overnight stays, and it’s not the only farm in Vermont that offers this intriguing option.

At Fat Sheep Farm & Cabins, set in the hills of Hartland, you’ll find private cabins overlooking sprawling fields and rolling hills, all just minutes from the historic villages of Woodstock and Quechee. It’s a slice of paradise where you can roam the grounds, collect fresh eggs, and maybe even make friends with a goat or two. The family that operates this property is firmly committed to sustainable living.

Farther south in Sunderland, Hill Farm Inn is just a stone’s throw from Manchester and has 70 scenic acres with a history as rich as its soil. It’s been welcoming visitors for over 150 years, offering a luxurious escape and some seriously tasty farm-to-table fare. Ingredients are sourced from both its backyard and neighboring farms, then served at the on-site restaurant.

Take your pick of eco-friendly hotels.

Photo: Isora Lithgow Creations/Basin Harbor Resort & Boat Club/

If farm stays aren’t quite your thing, Vermont has plenty of eco-friendly hotels where you can hang your hat. Take Hotel Vermont, which is centrally located in downtown Burlington. This sleek and stylish property is LEED certified, and rooms operate with an energy-saving system and have refillable toiletries.

Right in the middle of Stowe, the Green Mountain Inn proudly integrates environmentalism into its hospitality. From reducing trash by eliminating unnecessary packaging to sourcing locally grown products and offering in-room recycling, every little bit helps. Guests can also opt to reuse towels and linens to conserve energy.

South of Burlington in Vergennes, the Basin Harbor Resort on Lake Champlain displays a profound commitment to preserving its breathtaking surroundings through eco-friendly construction and waste-reduction strategies like recycling and composting. By conserving natural habitats and protecting wildlife corridors, it ensures the landscape remains pristine for all to enjoy. Lake Morey Resort in Fairlee is also serious about safeguarding the planet, from being big on recycling and energy efficiency to its use of solar panels and electric car chargers (off the property, check out this handy map to see where Vermont’s 400-plus EV charging stations are located across the state).

Over in the Mad River Valley, the Common Ground Center strives to live in harmony with nature. With green building practices and reliance on solar power for all electricity needs, the center maintains a low carbon footprint. Nearby, the lodging options at Sugarbush are leading the charge for a greener future through the use of solar power and energy-efficient lighting.

Check out the sustainable dining and brewing scene.

Photo: Vermont Tourism

For a true farm-to-table dining experience, visit Shelburne Farms, a short drive south of Burlington. This working farm and educational center focuses on sustainable agriculture, and its restaurant serves one of the finest meals in Vermont, with most ingredients sourced directly from its own fields and pastures. It’s a dining experience that’s as nourishing for the body as it is for the planet.

In Essex Junction, find Black Flannel Brewing & Distilling inside a solar-powered building that champions energy-efficient practices. The brewery also uses only recyclable packaging for its outstanding brews, such as the Märzen German-style lager. And you can stay for dinner (food ingredients are sourced from local farms whenever possible) and try one paired with maple roasted cauliflower “steak” frites or chicken and waffles with spiced bacon maple syrup.

Next, head to Lawson’s Finest Liquids in Waitsfield, where beer lovers flock for a sip of the Mad River Maple, a rich ale made with 100 percent pure Vermont maple syrup. Lawson’s has recently invested in a solar roof, a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment facility, and electric vehicle chargers. Beer aficionados also shouldn’t miss The Alchemist Brewery in Stowe. Try one of its famous hazy IPAs, like Heady Topper, in the summer beer garden with mountain views or at the beer cafe during the colder months. The Alchemist is dedicated to sustainability, working to reduce wastewater and use clean energy to power its cannery. It’s on a mission to become completely trash-free, showcasing its commitment to the environment in every aspect of its operations.

It’s clear that being green isn’t some passing fad in Vermont; it’s ingrained in the very fabric of the state’s communities. That’s why so many Vermont businesses (including big names like Cabot Creamery and Ben & Jerry’s) have earned B Corp Certification, a designation reserved for leaders in environmentalism and equity. So go ahead and soak up Vermont’s eco-vibes with a mix of curiosity and reverence. You’ll be helping to preserve the legendary landscapes of the Green Mountain State for years to come, even as you enjoy them to the fullest on your Vermont vacation.

The Olympics Will Return to Salt Lake City in 2034. The City Is Already Better to Visit Than Ever.

My buddy and I almost turned back upon reading the “Club Members Only” note plastered to the doorman’s booth. It wasn’t apparent why what appeared from the outside to be a standard-issue bar and grill was, in fact, a hoity-toity private club. The year of our confusion was 2007, the establishment was a joint with a simple sign that read, “Pub, Grill, and Night Club.” But a couple of ski bum college kids visiting Salt Lake City on a spring break powder getaway weren’t up to snuff in any case, we presumed.

Anyone familiar with Salt Lake City’s formerly arcane liquor licensing policies knows already that our assumption was false. To gain entry to the nightclub, one of us needed only to pay that $5 “membership fee” to the doorman and the other could join as his “guest.” Utah’s “private club” policy came to an end in 2009, but for 40-odd years before that, establishments serving liquor had to operate as membership clubs and those entering their doors had to fill out an application and pay a fee. During this era, even the common beer-and-a-shot order was met with a “no-can-do,” as only one drink could lounge in front of a patron at any given time. Beginning in 1990 and lasting until before the 2002 Olympics, there were even metering devices installed on bottles of liquor.

Over the course of a week in the Beehive State snowboarding during the day and taking in the capital city’s pub scene by night, we became accustomed to the policy, and began alternating who paid the fee and who was the honored guest. In the end, aside from parting us from a few Lincolns, the strict liquor laws weren’t that big of a deal – Colorado, where we lived, had only recently begun allowing liquor stores to operate on Sundays. But their mere existence made it obvious why the perceptions of Salt Lake City as a hub under the fat thumb of the Mormon church persisted as widely as they did. Prior to the 2002 Winter Olympics, our drinking experience would have been considered radically liberal in the city.

Things have consistently, if slowly, changed since the private club law was abandoned in 2009. I’ve visited the city several times since that first experience in 2007, uncovering each time a layer of what is a contemporary, even vibrant, metropolitan area. With the announcement that the city will again host the Olympics in 2034, it’s worth discussing why now is a great time to visit Salt Lake City. As a semi-frequent visitor (I’ve been to Salt Lake seven times since the first visit), it’s stood out to me how the ease of getting a beer has evolved in tandem with the city’s standing as a hub for those who want an active mountain lifestyle combined with urban amenities.

No major city offers easier mountain access

Look closely and you can see the people on the roof. Photo: Tim Wenger

Many snowboarders, mountain bikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts I know have moved to the area in the past decade, and none seem to have any plans to pull the plug. Growing up in Denver, the mountains of the Front Range were right there. I gazed at them every day on my way to school. Getting to them on a weekend, though, required slogging through stop-and-go traffic on Interstate 70 that frequently moved so slowly it would take two to three hours to reach the ski resorts of Summit County 70 miles away. While there are fewer resort options, Salt Lake City enjoys easier access to its nearby ski resorts than Denver.

My wife and I visited Salt Lake City this summer and spent a day hiking at Snowbird. We felt no rush getting up there in the morning – we left the hotel in downtown SLC around 9 AM and were in Snowbird’s parking lot by 9:40. Granted, it was on a weekday in summer, and I’ve experienced moderate ski traffic heading to Snowbird in the winter, but even doubling the 35-minute drive is preferable compared to what I grew accustomed to when I lived in Denver. En route to the mountain we discussed how much easier it must be for the resort employees who work in both Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons, where most of the city’s nearby ski resorts are, to be able to find housing in greater Salt Lake as opposed to fighting for housing in small and increasingly unaffordable resort towns, a major issue facing ski resort employees across the country.

It’s not just the ski resort staff that benefit. Outdoor recreationists of all stripes – from hikers to climbers to bikers in summer and all manners of snowsports in winter – to reach their sport of choice. he same is true for recreationists – most of us can’t afford to buy a house in Park City or Aspen, even if we wanted to. Here you can get from the airport to the slopes in 45 minutes or so, a monumental achievement given that Salt Lake City International Airport is the 21st busiest airport in North America, flying nearly 23 million passengers in 2023.

Its resorts are benefitting from the influx. To reach the top of Snowbird from the base village, we rode atop the tram in a newly-designed carriage called the Rooftop Balcony that provides 360-degree views of the surrounding Wasatch Range while you move higher into it. We literally stood on top of the tram as it moved – and the experience was like riding a chairlift where you can stand, turn around, move about side to side, and actually get a good look at what’s around you instead of only what’s immediately ahead. The resort already pushed innovation with its magic carpet skier tunnel through the mountain, and now its tram offers a similar thrill for summer visitors.

The beer scene is on-point

Photo courtesy TF Brewing

After hiking at Snowbird, we stopped at Templin Family Brewing, known by seemingly everyone we spoke to as TF Brewing. I knew of Kevin Templin, the brewery’s founder, as he formerly brewed at Red Rock Brewing, which I’d visited on a previous trip. TF opened in 2018, and is part of a generation of breweries in Salt Lake City that have established the region as a great place to raise a pint. There are nearly three dozen breweries in the Salt Lake metro area, more than twice as many as there were a decade ago according to a map compiled by Utah Beer Blog. I’m basic when it comes to beer – I like pilsners, ales, and lagers. Maybe a dunkel or a red here and there. Here I started with a Jarda Czech Pilsner and followed it with a Granary Kellerbier, both of which were light and refreshing on that hot summer day. Alisha, who’s more adventurous, had a Big Smoke, a Franconian smoke beer, and a Phantasm with Incognito Citra Hops.

Pizza at Emigration Canyon Brewing. Photo: Tim Wenger

The brewery, located in the Ballpark neighborhood, was buzzing around happy hour time. This itself is not so extraordinary – but as a visitor, I’ve come to see Salt Lake’s beer scene as representative of the city as it is. It’s gotten better each time I’ve visited. Back in the day, there was Squatter’s Pub, Red Rock Brewery, and Uinta – beyond those three, just a few small-scale operations could be found around the city. It’s not just beer bars on offer. For dinner we visited Emigration Brewing, a creekside taphouse about 15 minutes outside the city in Emigration Canyon. Here I had an Amber Ale and a mezcal cocktail called Commandment, which added Fernet Branca, pineapple, cinnamon syrup, and ginger beer to the spirit complemented by lime and mint, paired with ceviche and pizza.

A good city is multi-faceted, defined not by its institutions but by its people – and as a beer drinker, I’ve noticed the changes in the city’s offerings over the years. Visit Salt Lake currenlty offers a 1-day Salt Lake Brewery Pass via its app, which allows discounts at brewery’s across the city. Also on offer is a 1-Day Connect Pass, which grants admission or discounts at cultural attractions across the city including the Clark Planetarium, The Children’s Museum of Utah, and the Natural History Museum of Utah. It’s easier than ever to have a well-rounded trip to Salt Lake, and it stands to be exciting how the city will evolve before it welcomes back the world in 2034.

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This Budget Airline Can Get You to Paris for Half The Price of the Most Popular Flights

Like many travelers, I’m always on the hunt for discounted airfare. Spirit Airlines has gotten me across the East Coast on a budget countless times. However, my enthusiasm for budget airlines wanes once a transatlantic flight is in question, or truthfully, any flight over three or four hours.

So when I spotted last minute summer flights out of Miami via French Bee for literally half the price of competing airlines, my first instinct was skepticism — I’m a firm believer that you get what you pay for — but a $500 one-way ticket is quite appealing compared to a $1,000 one-way ticket. I decided to do what any contestant on Who Wants To Be A Millionaire would do when self-doubt presents itself: it was time to poll the people.

Had anyone else ventured on this airline I’d never heard of? As I scanned Reddit posts online, I quickly discovered an overwhelming amount of critical comments from disgruntled customers, warning all readers to steer clear of French Bee. One previous passenger called out the flight crews: “Their flight attendants are all young and inexperienced (like, ALL of them…).” Another described an uncomfortable flight, dubbing French Bee the “worst airline of all time.” But even then, $500 is $500, and since my flight option was a red-eye, I figured I’d spend most of the journey sleeping (one can always prepare with the best ways to sleep on a plane and hope for the best).

Despite the online commentary, I took a chance and decided to proceed.

Like other budget airlines, French Bee follows the à la carte model. You book a cheap flight, and tag on your add-ons. Carrying a personal item? That’s an extra cost. Picking your seat? That’s another cost. It’s about $20 per add-on. Even with a few of these tagged on, you’re still paying way less than usual. The airline started transporting travelers in 2016, and now offers flights from major U.S. hubs like San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, and Miami to Paris and back, as well as flights to and from French territories far from the motherland including Tahiti and Réunion Island.

As soon as I stepped on the plane, I noticed how new the interior of the aircraft was — presumably a benefit of an airline just shy of its first decade in existence. Though there were complaints online about cramped, smaller seats, I felt perfectly comfortable. The other thing I noticed was the courtesy of the staff on board. Before the passenger next to me even attempted to tuck away her suitcase overhead, a steward approached and insisted on doing it for her, despite it being standard procedure that flight attendants are not supposed to help lift luggage. Throughout the flight, the crew was more polite and friendly than most flights I’ve been on. The only noteworthy difference in service was that water was the only complimentary beverage. Any other drinks required payment (those damn add-ons!). Beyond that, we enjoyed a full meal as usual, and the flight went smoothly.

We landed with no delays at Paris Orly Airport, where French Bee is based. Orly Airport is smaller, less chaotic, and a bit closer to the city than the larger Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (where Air France is based). Perhaps I got lucky with my flight, or perhaps French Bee has been steadily improving its services to compete with juggernaut airlines, but the lesson for me is to not believe every review you read online.

You do typically get what you pay for, but every once in a while, it’s worth taking a chance on a different, less expensive option. You never know what awaits you.

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