Matador Network's Blog, page 135

7 Destinations Charging a Tourist Tax to Fight Overtourism in 2024

Spoiler: if you travel at all, you’re paying a tax because you’re a tourist. When you stay a hotel or resort, you almost certainly pay accommodation taxes, levied on overnight stays in hotels, vacation rentals, or any short-term lodging. It’s separate from resort fees or hotel taxes, and is usually a percentage of the nightly rate. The revenue is often given back to local governments to spend on tourism promotion or sustainability initiatives. And in resort towns where most people are tourists, you may even pay a similar tax at restaurants or for attractions and services.

But thats not the end of the taxes. Many destinations require permits to visit their most popular attractions. In Palau, if you want to visit famous Jellyfish Lake, you’ll need to buy a $100 permit, and on the extreme end, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park charges $1,500 per day for a permit to see the rare mountain gorillas.

But if tourist taxes annoy you, buckle up. In light of rising concerns about overtourism and environmental degradation around the world, many destinations are introducing new taxes — some of which are levied just to entering a town. These are seven destinations that introduced or increased their tourist taxes in 2024 to fight overtourism.

Mount Fuji, Japan

Photo: Sandra Foyt/Shutterstock

Mount Fuji introduced a tourist tax in 2024 for anyone who wants to hike the iconic mountain. The city calls it a “permit,” but since the cap on the number of permits is ridiculously high (4,000 per day), it equates to more of a tax than a tourist limit. Fortunately, it’s inexpensive, with travelers asked to pay the equivalent of about $13 US to access the popular Yoshida Trail. The tax on hiking follows months in which locals built a wall to block a view of Mount Fuji that was causing traffic jams by photographers, and increased enforcement and fines for visitors caught littering or trespassing.

Venice, Italy

Photo: Kirk Fisher/Shutterstock

The impact of overtourism is Venice has been well-publicized, especially since the city is thought to be literally sinking under the weight of tourists. In 2024, the city introduced a five-euro fee for any tourist entering the city on select days. The trial began in April 2024 and is collected by hotels, which add the fee to the guests’ total costs. In July 2024, the city announced that the tourist tax had already netted more than 2 million euros for the city, which plans to spend it on city improvements and programs for residents. Many residents are saying the fee should be raised for 2025, claiming it hasn’t done much to limit tourism.

The fee follows a cruise ship ban enacted on 2021, which barred large cruise ships from docking at the city’s historic port. However, large ships can stick dock nearby Port Maghera and bus tourists in, which is what many of the major European cruise companies are currently doing.

Barcelona, Spain

Photo: Stefano Politi Markovina/Shutterstock

Barcelona, ever-popular with tourists, faces a growing struggle with overtourism. Millions flock to the city each year, with millions of cruise ship guests overwhelming popular areas. This influx strains local resources, drives up housing prices, and disrupts the city’s character. This frustration has occasionally boiled over into protests, with some residents resorting to demonstrations and vandalism targeting tourists.

Barcelona has already responded by implementing regulations on short-term rentals to free up housing for locals, but in 2024, the mayor announced plans to raise the city’s current tourist tax, which was implemented in 2012. Mayor Jaume Collboni said he’s running studies to determine how much to increase the current seven-euro tax on cruise ship day-trippers. The tax is only applied to guests visiting for less than 12 hours, though the city already has a hotel tourist tax that will increase to four euro per night per person, starting in October 2024.

Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Photo: Alfio Finocchiaro/Shutterstock

Amsterdam has long had a problem not just with too many tourists, but with the wrong type of tourists, attracting partiers coming just to explore the vices available in the city’s well-known red light district. The city currently has one of the highest tourist taxes in Europe, but in 2024, that rate went even higher. Now, tourists staying in hotels, resorts, and Airbnbs will need to pay an additional 12.5 percent of the room cost per night, up from the previous rate of seven percent. Cruise ship visitors will also be taxed at 12 percent.

The city has said it wants the fees to limit the number of tourists visiting the city annually, aiming to cap it at 20 million room nights per year with the tax, introduced in 2021. Tax revenue is spent to address the consequences of overtourism and fund initiatives like street cleaning.

Bali, Indonesia

Photo: AsiaTravel/Shutterstock

In 2024, the island of Bali in Indonesia introduced a tourist tax, aimed to cut down on the island’s reputation for crowded roads, rowdy visitors, and cities more welcoming to 20-somethings on yoga vacations than actual locals. In February 2024, the island introduced an international tourist tax of 150,000 Rupiah (about $10). It’s payable upon arrival at the airport, or in advance online on Bali’s tourism website. The government says it’ll be used to pay for tourist infrastructure, but some residents are claiming it’s not being enforced enough.

For now, there’s no penalty for failing to pay the fine — but if you love Bali and its people and landscapes, $10 is a small price to pay to help keep it pristine. You could also split your time between Bali and some of the nearby less-crowded islands.

Iceland

Photo: Roberto La Rosa/Shutterstock

The gorgeous country of Iceland suspended its tourist tax in the years of the COVID-19 pandemic, but reinstated it in January of 2024. Funds go toward sustainability initiatives, as some lawmakers and residents have claimed the country’s growing tourist numbers are taxing its limited environmental resources. Visitors will pay ISK 600 (about $4.50) per night per hotel room, or about $2 for campsite stays. There’s also a fee for cruise ship visitors, which works out to about $7 per day.

Greece

Photo: Pit Stock/Shutterstock

If you’re keen to see the Acropolis or relax on the beaches of Corfu (or, better yet, a lesser-known Greek island), you’ll need to pay a small tourist tax to the country. In January 2024, Greece introduced what it calls a “New Climate Resilience Levy,” with profits used to fund efforts to shield the low-lying country from the impacts of climate change. The fee is paid directly to your hotel and varies based on the cost of your lodging, running from 1.5 to 10 euros per night. For now, the tourist tax is only levied in peak tourist season, from March to October. However, visitors traveling between November and February will still need to pay the “bed tax,” which can run up to four euro per room per night.

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Kids Fly for Free to the Caribbean With This Airline

As a general rule across most airlines, kids only fly for free if they are under the age of two. Beyond that, they either get a reduced ticket price or pay the full fare. That’s not the case with Bermudair.

Bermudair, an airline that was founded in 2023, offers flights between multiple destinations in North America and Bermuda L.F. Wade International Airport, including Boston (BOS), Baltimore (BWI), Orlando (MCO), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), and New York’s Westchester County (HPN) in the US, and Toronto (YYZ) and Halifax (YHZ) in Canada.

For a limited time, Bermudair is making families in dire need of a sunny vacation an offer they can’t possibly refuse: They will let the kids fly for free.

Until July 26, 2024, travelers who book a flight with Bermudair will benefit from a free flight for their kid if they are aged 12 or below. The offer is valid only for one free kid ticket per full-fare adult ticket. Yes, that means that if you have three children, you’ll need to pay or leave one at home.

The promotion does not include taxes and fees, so your kid’s flight won’t be 100 percent free, but it’ll be very, very cheap.

Not only that but those same kids can also get a free hotel stay if you choose to book at one of the select properties partnering with Bermudair.

Note that the offer applies to flights between September 12 and December 12‚ 2024, but that there are some blackout dates: October 19 to 27, 2024 and November 23 to 30‚ 2024‚ included.

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Anti-Tourist? Visit These 7 Remote Islands You’ve Never Heard Of.

Forget the crowded beaches and souvenir shops. In the vast expanse of our blue planet, there exist thousands of islands, some so small that you have to zoom all the way in on Google Maps to even spot them. These remote islands beckon a different kind of adventurer than those attracted to Tahiti or Maui, and have a unique blend of both relaxation and adventure.

On many of the remote islands below, “island time” is the default, patience and adaptability are a must, and the beaches are devoid of tourist facilities or beachfront resorts. But the lack of tourist facilities or western-style conveniences may also make visiting them far more of an adventure, especially since you may not be able to make hotel reservations in advance or find a taxi. Heck, you may not even know what day your flight will actually land on the island.

Visiting remote islands can be a great way to experience small cultures and festivals that are more difficult to find on more developed islands. Shown: traditional dancers in Yap. Photo: Ethan Daniels/Shutterstock

Travelers who love the idea of visiting islands still focused on the people who live there, rather than visitors with deep pockets, have plenty of options. Whether you want to shed the trappings of chain hotels and overpriced hamburgers, or want to see some of the prettiest places in the world still untouched by the homogenizing hand of mass tourism, you’ll likely find an island to inspire you on the list below.

If you’re ready to plan a far-flung adventure to some of the most remote islands in the world, read on. It’s likely you’ve never heard of some of the remote islands — or even some of the countries — on the list below.

Wallis and Futuna

Photo: benjamin brial/Shutterstock

Wallis and Futuna is a remote French collectivity in the South Pacific and offers a glimpse into a Polynesian way of life largely untouched by modern tourism. The territory consists of two main islands: Wallis (also known as Uvea), and Futuna, along with a handful of islets scattered across the turquoise waters. Wallis is home to the majority of the population and has a more lush, volcanic landscape dotted with hidden freshwater lakes. Futuna, divided into two kingdoms, is known for its rugged beauty, with steep cliffs and the imposing shadow of Mount Puke, the territory’s highest point.

Life in Wallis and Futuna revolves around tradition. Sundays are sacred, and most shops and businesses are closed. Daily life is influenced by the chiefly system, and cultural performances are a common sight, especially during festivals. Be sure to experience a “meke,” a traditional dance accompanied by rhythmic drumming and singing.

On Wallis Island, most hotels are located in Mata-Utu, though options are limited. Expect a few small hotels and a few locally run guest houses.

How to get to Wallis and Futuna

Traveling to Wallis and Futuna from the United States requires a multi-leg journey and careful planning due to limited flight options. There are no direct flights from any major US city to Wallis and Futuna. Usually, travelers reach the remote islands by flying to Nouméa, the capital of New Caledonia (which requires several flights no matter where you live). From there, you’ll need to fly via Air Calédonie; it’s the only airline that operates scheduled passenger flights between Nouméa and Wallis. Flights from various US cities, such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle, connect to Nouméa with layovers, typically in Honolulu, HI; or Nadi, Fiji.

You can also fly directly from Fiji to Wallis once a week on the same airline.

Kei Islands

Photo: Fabio Lamanna/Shutterstock

In the remote eastern corner of Indonesia’s Maluku province lie the Kei Islands (also spelled Kai), an archipelago with more than 70 separate land masses. The largest are Kei Kecil (Little Kei) and Kei Besar (Great Kei). Despite their beauty, the Kei Islands have flown under the radar of mainstream tourism, partially because of their remoteness, so they’re a good place to experience a more traditional Indonesian way of life.

The islands’ main draw lies in their pristine natural beauty. Long stretches of white sand beaches fringed by coconut palms and crystal-clear turquoise waters are the quintessential tropical paradise, and the top activities on the island match the relaxed vibe. Swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing top the short list of things to do around the island, though there is one scuba diving operator open seasonally.

The Kei Islands are home to some of the most stunning coves and beaches you’ll find in Indonesia, especially since you’ll likely have them mostly to yourself — or at least only be sharing with a few local kids playing in the waves. From Kei, you can head to near-empty Bair Island, or head to Ngurtavur Beach to see pelicans in the wild. Most people also visit Goa Hawang, a cave complex with an underground lake and crystal-clear water. Keep in mind that due to the islands’ remote location, tourist infrastructure is limited. Lodging is mostly guesthouses and home-stays, and English isn’t spoken very much.

How to get to the Kei Islands

Reaching the islands isn’t easy, and flights are limited and very subject to last-minute changes. The most common route is to fly into Jakarta (the capital of Indonesia) or Denpasar (on Bali), then to Ambon, Indonesia, which takes about four hours. From there, you need to fly on an airline like Wings Air, Lion Air, or Sriwijaya Air to Djahar Airport in Langgur, the main town on Kei Kecil Island. Flights take approximately two hours and run only a few times per week.

Wakatobi Regency

Photo: Hazar Gryan/Shutterstock

Also in Indonesia is Wakatobi Regency in Southeast Sulawesi. This archipelago of roughly 150 islands, with Wangi-Wangi, Kaledupa, Binongko, and Tomia being the largest, is not well known, even in the diving community — which is probably one of the few travel communities that knows it at all. The crown jewel is Wakatobi National Park, established in 1996 and covering more than 5,000 square miles. It’s extremely biodiverse and a top priority for conservation groups around the world.

Divers and snorkelers flock to Wakatobi for a reason: The coral reefs there are nothing short of spectacular. It has a vast array of marine life including fish, crustaceans, manta rays, and sharks, plus visibility that can exceed 100 feet and a generally dry climate (so storms that impact oceans are rarer than in other parts of the country).  The varying depths within the national park cater to divers of all experience levels, from gentle coral gardens teeming with fish to advanced wall dives along dramatic underwater cliffs.

Beyond diving, Wakatobi offers opportunities to explore the islands above water. Visitors can hike through lush forests, kayak through mangrove channels, or relax on pristine beaches. It’s essential to try traditional seafood dishes from the local Bugis culture, and most hotels have on-site restaurants with a toes-in-the-sand vibe.

The main island is Wangi-Wangi, where you’ll find most of the lodging options on the remote islands. There are more places to stay than in some other remote islands on this list, but they’re still limited. Aside from a few eco-resorts and homestays, the main options are Wakitobi Dive Resort, Wakatobi Patuno Resort, and Naya Matahora Island Resort.

How to get to Wakatobi Regency

Traveling to Wakatobi Regency in Indonesia from the US isn’t a quick trip. You’ll probably have to fly from a major US city to an Indonesian gateway city like Jakarta or Denpasar, which will probably have at least one layover. Then, you’ll have to fly to Matahora Airport on Wangi-Wangi Island, the main entry point to Wakatobi. That flight will likely take three to five hours, but they only fly a few times a week, depending on the airline. Total travel time, including layovers, can range from 25 to 35 hours or more, depending on your specific flight options and wait times between connections.

Yap

Stone coins in Yap. Photo: Stan de Haas Photography/Shutterstock

Far-flung in the western Pacific Ocean is Yap, part of the Federated States of Micronesia. While Yap itself is an island group, it’s also the name of the largest island within that group. The Federated States of Micronesia consists of four states between Guam and Palau, with Yap being the westernmost one.

One of the island’s most captivating elements is its history of using giant stone wheels, locally known as “rai.” The discs were once used as a form of currency and can weigh up to several tons and stand taller than a human. The US dollar is the main currency now, but the giant stone coins are still occasionally used for payment of traditional purchases, like land.

Yap’s environment is primarily dense rainforests on the island’s interior, with waterfalls and limestone caves available for tourists to visit. The remote island also has plenty of hiking trails leading to scenic viewpoints (and opportunities for rare birding), and paddling traditional canoe-type boats is also an activity available to visitors. Like many remote islands, scuba diving is a big draw, and dive resorts like Manta Bay Dive Resort and Yap Pacific Dive Resort are big into blackwater diving and dives to manta ray cleaning stations.

How to get to Yap

Yap is has some tourist facilities due to its direct flights from Guam, which make it easier to reach than other nearby destinations — but still not easy. Since there are no direct flights from any major US city, you’ll first need to fly to Guam, which will probably take at least two flights depending on where you live. Guam is the only departure city to reach Yap, and United Airlines is the only airline offering the route. It flies only twice a week and delays are common; this writer was delayed in Guam for four days by United while waiting for the flight to actually take off. So be patient, and allocate plenty of vacation time in case of significant delays.

Isla de la Plata

Photo: Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock

Isla de la Plata, also known as Silver Island, is a wildlife haven off the coast of Ecuador often called the “poor man’s Galapagos” due to its more affordable wildlife viewing. Like Galapagos, the remote island is packed with opportunities to encounter unique wildlife in their natural habitats. Remember that responsible tourism practices are crucial here. Respect the wildlife, maintain a safe distance, and avoid disturbing their natural behavior.

The landscape is mostly dry forests and rocky cliffs, making it a bucket-list destination for birdwatchers keen to see the blue-footed booby colonies. These seabirds have some of the brightest colors and most unique courtship displays on the planet, and live near similar species like Nazca boobies, red-footed boobies, and frigatebirds, among others.

Snorkelers can explore the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island and see huge colorful fish, playful sea lions, and gentle sea turtles. Whales often migrate around the area in June through October.

Wildlife aside, evidence suggests the remote island was once inhabited by Indigenous groups, and visitors can explore the remnants of that pre-Columbian presence here and there throughout the island. All tours to Isla de la Plata leave from the mainland, as the island itself is a national park and has no lodging or tourism companies. Look into one-day tours from companies like Adventures La Plata or Palo Santo Tours if you’re interested in visiting.

How to get to Isla de la Plata

Isla de la Plata’s gateway town for tours is Puerto Lopez, a small coastal town in Ecuador. The small town has a variety of accommodation options, restaurants catering to various budgets, and a relaxed atmosphere where most people are interested in wildlife and the outdoors.

Your first leg will most likely involve flying into a major Ecuadorian gateway city like Quito. From there, you can drive to Puerto Lopez (roughly nine hours), or fly from Quito to Guayaquil, then drive to Puerto Lopez from Guayaquil (about 3.5 hours). As with all remote islands on this list, budget in plenty of time for delays, as well as buses and boats that operate on a relaxed schedule.

St. Matthew Island

Photo: RUBEN M RAMOS/Shutterstock

Not all of the most remote islands in the world are tropical, as evidenced by Alaska’s St. Matthew Island. It’s said to be the most remote island in Alaska, known for being a pristine wilderness, untouched by permanent human settlements in the middle of the Bering Sea.

The island’s defining characteristic is its vast tundra, carpeted with wildflowers in vibrant purples, pinks, and yellows during the summer months. A few rustic hiking trails weave through the colorful expanse, leading to hidden lakes and dramatic coastlines. Birdwatchers will be in paradise, with millions of seabirds calling the island home, including puffins.

The island is part of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, and there are no facilities or services on the island, though there are a few campsites. The only way it’s visited is via boat charters or small-ship cruises, which usually offer kayaking adventures and opportunities to cruise the coastline looking for whales and spotting the remnants of an abandoned military base from World War II (one of the few times anyone lived on the island).

Due to its remoteness, visitor infrastructure is limited on St. Matthew Island. It adds to the island’s charm, offering a true escape from the modern world. But you need to be prepared for a true wilderness adventure.

How to get to St. Matthew Island

Forget scheduled flights or ferries – chartering a boat is your only option, unless you book one of the few cruises that visits the island. Look for reputable services in Alaskan coastal towns like Nome, Gambell, or St. Paul in the Pribilof Islands. These companies specialize in trips to remote locations and understand the specific requirements for visiting St. Matthew Island.

Weather in the Bering Sea is unpredictable, so aim for summer months (June to August) for more favorable conditions. If you’re hoping to camp, bring absolutely everything you’ll need, and arrange your permit through the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Bering Sea Wilderness office. Contact the office directly to learn more.

Ngazidja

Photo: MBrand24/Shutterstock

If you’ve never heard of Ngazidja, don’t worry — most people haven’t even heard of the country it’s in (Comoros). Ngazidja, also known by its French colonial name of Grande Comore, is the largest island of the Comoros archipelago, a string of volcanic islands between Mozambique and Madagascar. Ngazidja’s unique charm lies in its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and relaxed island vibes.

The remote island’s interior is dominated by the active volcano of Mount Karthala, and surrounded by lush rainforests, cobalt-blue beaches, and dramatic craters. Adventurous travelers can trek to the rim of Karthala for otherworldly views, though most people visit for the beaches, known for soft sand, turquoise water, and very few people.

The island’s capital is Moroni, a small and colorful town with a bustling marketplace and mosques showcasing Islamic architectural influences. Expect fresh, simple seafood dishes, usually served from low-key beachside grills. There’s no real tourist infrastructure, so bring all your own snorkel gear (as well as anything else you may need). You can occasionally find rentals for kayaks or boat operators on the main beach (Itsandara), but it’s all very casual, with no reservations or advanced planning available.

Accommodation options on Ngazidja are equally limited and very casual. Guesthouses are the most common type of accommodation, though there are a few mid-range beach hotels that allow you to make reservations in advance, such as Retaj Moroni Resort or Al Camar Lodge.

The main languages of the country are Comorian, French, Arabic. You’ll be embraced with open arms if you’re one of the few Comorian speakers in the world, but if not, French or Arabic should get you a long way. If you don’t speak either of those, download Google Translate — English is not spoken much at all.

How to get to Ngazidja

As far as remote islands go, Ngazidja falls into the category of “difficult, but not as bad as you might expect.” That’s because you can connect to Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport in Ngazidja from several major cities in Africa, meaning you’ll likely have only three flights from the US — or perhaps even two, if you’re near an airport from which you can fly directly to a city like Cairo, Dar Es Salaam, Addis Ababa, or Nairobi. You’ll have several airline choices for the last leg to Comoros, including Air Austral, Ethiopian Airlines, or Kenya Airways.

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Meet the First Woman to Drive Solo From London to Lagos

Near the start of 2024, Pelumi Nubi started a solo overlanding trip from London to Lagos, Nigeria. The 4,000-plus mile trip included ferries, long desert drives, and a train that doesn’t run on an exact schedule.

“London to Lagos was inspired by me wanting to connect to a place I consider home,” Nubi told Michael Motamedi on the Matador Network podcast No Fixed Address: The World’s Most Extraordinary People. Nubi was born in Lagos and grew up in the UK. When she told others about her trip, the first thing that typically came up were reservations about whether it was even possible. “Then I went down the rabbit hole. Has any woman done this before? And per usual, there was nothing,” Nubi explains when describing her inspiration as she started planning.

She documented her trip on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and quickly built up a following. Today, with the trip behind her, Nubi has a list of accolades: Lagos tourism ambassador, the first woman to complete the solo drive from London to Lagos, the car she drove is now a museum piece, and there’s a list of more than 80 countries she has visited in her life (not to mention 311,000 followers on Instagram alone).

Photo: Pelumi Nubi

“It’s absolutely changed me in terms of what I believe is possible or not,” Nubi says on the podcast, adding that “you just need to trust yourself because I got a lot of naysayers. I’m traveling solo, I’m Black, and female. It doesn’t get harder than this.”

It wasn’t a foregone conclusion that Nubi would take this route in life. She majored in biomedical sciences, and earned a Phd in cancer research and human genetics. But she has always been a curious person — and one interested in breaking stereotypes and boundaries through representation in travel. At university, she would regularly take weekend trips to explore parts of Europe, and later cofounded a publication called The Black Explorer during the height of the pandemic.

Photo: Pelumi Nubi

Nubi’s travels don’t come without difficulties, of course. She recalls on the podcast times when people in Eastern Europe would touch her skin as if they had never seen a Black person before. In Morocco, she was offered a discount on a room if she allowed someone to give her a massage. A 12-hour ride on the notorious mining train in Mauritania dubbed the “Snake of the Desert” had no shortage of scares. She was often met with questions about a husband and why she was alone on her drive to Lagos, because “there’s that expectation that a woman cannot go on adventures,” Nubi says.

There’s no denying that stereotypes and racism affect travelers, no matter the destination. Nubi, however, is helping to change the narrative of who travel is for — whether backpacking, overlanding, or taking a luxury vacation. Though it can be easy to fall into the trap of reading about a place and thinking it’s not for you, Nubi says, the rewards outweigh the negatives.

Photo: Pelumi Nubi

“If you want to do it, do it,” Nubi says. “Travel is one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done for myself. It teaches you lessons that cannot be taught in the classroom.”

To hear the full conversation — including Nubi’s tips for solo travel and why everyone should visit Lagos during “Dirty December” — listen to No Fixed Address: The World’s Most Extraordinary People on your favorite listening platform.

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Take In Lima’s Best Views, Bites, and Hospitality From This Posh Hotel

Hiking Machu Picchu. Summiting Rainbow Mountain. Sandboarding dunes in the Ica Desert, paragliding over the Costa Verde. Peru is unmatched for its variety of experiences and there’s no more luxurious place to start (or conclude) the odyssey than The Westin Lima, with rooms starting at $275 per night.

Officially The Westin Lima Hotel and Convention Center, this 5-star hotel in San Isidro is more than a rendezvous for the suited and booted. Dimly-lit passageways give way to cozy bars sporting the handiwork of prominent street artists and lobby fire pits. A blink-and-you’ll-miss-it speakeasy, prize-winning restaurant, and the aptly named Heavenly Spa prime The Westin for romancing with resort-style perks.

As for the rooms, well, as a subsidiary of Marriott under Highgate’s Luxury Collection portfolio, no amenity is amiss.

We hope you love the Westin Lima Hotel! 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.

Cityscape rooms with pizzazz at The Westin Lima

Photo courtesy Westin Lima Hotel & Convention Center

Designated a Grand Deluxe King Room on a high floor, the first thing I noticed about our room was the silence. The Westin Lima Hotel towers 30 floors over a swirl of highways but I didn’t hear a peep thanks to the soundproofed wall-to-wall windows. Our unit had all the trimmings to make us feel at home: fluffy robes, a safe, a coffee maker, a USB charge port, and bedside reading lights. Propped on the pillows of the Westin Heavenly Bed, a vial of lavender and chamomile oil to foster soundless sleep.

It felt more like a suite, with a chaise longue, large desk, walk-in closet, and luxurious bathroom with a walk-in shower and deep soaking tub which my limbs appreciated. Jasmine and white tea bathing products are provided in large bottles to combat plastic waste. The Westin Lima was the first hotel in Latin America to receive LEED Gold certification for its commitment to sustainability.

In total, this luxury spa hotel has 301 domains with connecting rooms and suites for families. Executive upgrades add further luxuries and VIP attention.

Embracing the elements at the Heavenly Spa

Photo courtesy Westin Lima Hotel & Convention Center

All guests have free reign of The Westin’s half-Olympic-sized swimming pool, yoga studio, and fitness suite with the latest cardio. The pool is heated to an optimum temperature for leisurely laps and ambient piano music makes it pleasant to while away an afternoon alone with a book or with kids.

Peru’s climate and high elevations can leave you feeling parched so the Thermal Circuit was a smart addition to South America’s largest urban spa. This 90-minute quest through whirlpools, waterfalls, and toxin-blasting hot chambers is a steal at 190 Peruvian soles ($50) per person.

Heavenly Spa lists individual and couples’ packages including chocolate massages and bamboo scrubs. Standard treatments can be performed in rooms and suites.

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Criminally-tasty cocktails at Alphonse

Photo courtesy Westin Lima Hotel & Convention Center

Exploring this mammoth city makes for an appetite not always matched by an urge to stray too far after a long day and The Westin Lima’s dining portfolio is a bonus.

Our evening started with tracking down moonshine at Alphonse. Hint: look for the floating vinyl and remember the magic word for the Don. This buzzy speakeasy hosts live saxophonists and puts on ritzy Prohibition Parties amid its shadowy booths and vintage couches watched over by Alphonse Capone himself.

I hedged my bets and lucked out on the Double Down (St-Rémy VSOP mingled with Drambuie and a dash of smoked salt). My husband risked the Costa Nostra (Amaro Montenegro with vermouth, honey, and grapefruit) delivered to the table behind a cloud of liquid nitrogen. Classic cocktails are available alongside the signature inventions and costumed mixologists are thorough in explaining the menu.

Award-winning Peruvian cuisine at Maras

The Apatadito de Calamares at Maras. Photo: Hannah D. Cooper

Maras – named for the Sacred Valley’s salt mine district, photos of which hung in our room – is flawless from the salt table decorations through to the presentation. Led by Chef Anthony Macedo, Sommelier Julián Oliva, and Pastry Chef Sandra Aguayo, Somos has recognized Maras as Lima’s Best Hotel Restaurant for two consecutive years.

We rehydrated with zingy lemongrass lemonades over rolls served with housemade natural butter and rich olive oil. Our Tiradito Buendía starter, one of several ceviches on the menu, saw the catch of the day tossed with fresh garlic flakes and chalaquita dressing.

I continued the seafood theme with Apatadito de Calamares: squid in hot ink sauce, pumpkin-tinted rice, and chicha de jora. Gabriel was jungle-bound with a plantain curry infused with creamy Amazonian tucupi sauce served on banana leaves in a hulking granite dish. The sommelier was quick to suggest glasses of Alfredo Roca Cabernet Franc in place of the suggested white.

Starter and mains were enough to fill our tummies (we’d already guzzled an arrival treat of petit fours) so we compromised on sharing pudding. After making eyes at the cacao nibs we settled on Limeñita, a refreshing chirimoya, orange, and mint sorbet delivered to the table by our server Johann behind another flourish of vapor.

Maras joins forces with its hip sister El Salar (another nod to the salt plains) where piqueos peruanos and cocktails are served to a backdrop of murals by Edwin “Pésimo” Higuchi Fernández. Feeling invigorated by the lively energy – not a single table was unoccupied – and mouth-watering food at Maras, we were swept away by the Copa América and grabbed tangy pisco sours to catch the final minutes.

The Lobby Lounge Bar is another casual option with a display of over 1,000 pisco bottles and eye-catching contemporary murals by Mateo Liébana. Inspired by Lima’s traditional grocers, Market 770 lays on a delicious buffet breakfast and a seasonal à la carte lunch. Takeat deals in coffee, kombucha, sandwiches, and pastries to-go. Westin Executive Club guests can dine on the 29th floor with Pacific Ocean views on a clear day.

A convenient location on the Lima Costa Verde

Photo courtesy Westin Lima Hotel & Convention Center

Wedged between Miraflores and the Centro Histórico, classy San Isidro is a strategic choice for a first-time visit to Lima. It’s a 10-minute taxi/Uber ride to the ancient Huaca Pucllana adobe temple and the Magic Water Circuit. Fifteen minutes is all it takes to reach Lima’s paragliding booths and surf schools.

In the lightest traffic, it takes 30 minutes to reach Callao’s Jorge Chavez International Airport. The Westin’s front desk staff are clued up on the best time to leave and have drivers on speed dial. As the gateway to Peru, bilingual staff are on hand to help plan the next leg of the adventure.

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Vermont Trails: 10 Lesser-Known Routes for Hiking, Biking, and Exploring the Green Mountain State

Vermont‘s outdoors are unparalleled, from serene woodsy strolls that inspired Robert Frost to mountain climbs that’ll challenge any peak-bagger and everything in between. The best way to appreciate the Green Mountain State’s world-class trails is to experience them firsthand, whether that means hiking, biking, paddling, or just a leisurely stroll.

What you’ll find in the list below are 10 lesser-known routes that are certain to amaze. Combine your outings on these trails with the Leave No Trace (LNT) ethos to ensure future visitors get to enjoy Vermont’s outdoors as much as you do.

1. Hiking for the view: Harmon Hill

Photo: E Pasqualli/Shutterstock

Just outside of Bennington, this 1.6-mile hike ends with a commanding view of the southern Green Mountains. With its west-facing exposure, it’s a perfect place to watch the sunset (provided you don’t mind hiking out by dusk — make sure to pack your headlamp). Park at the Long Trail lot on Route 9, just east of town, and be prepared to climb.

LNT tip: Pick up a copy of the Long Trail map from the Wilderness Map Company to know exactly where you’re going. Preparedness is an important element of a responsible adventure.

2. Strolling in serenity: Robert Frost Trail

The outdoors has always inspired poetry. At the Robert Frost Trail near Ripton, just 20 minutes from Middlebury, you can (almost) walk in the footsteps of one of America’s greatest poets. Frost taught at Middlebury College’s Bread Loaf School of English for 42 years, and a one-mile, fully accessible trail in nearby Green Mountain National Forest pays tribute. There’s even some of Frost’s best work displayed along the way.

LNT tip: You may be moved to verse by the local flora, but limit yourself to looking, not picking. To paraphrase an old expression, “Take only inspiration, leave only footprints.” And make sure those stay on the trail, of course!

3. Bucolic biking: Delaware and Hudson Rail Trail

Photo: Vermont Tourism

Hard against the state’s western border is the two-section Delaware and Hudson Rail Trail, a rural ride that travels from West Rupert, through Poultney, and north to Castleton (with a brief detour into neighboring New York). The 20-mile one-way route offers four-season recreation and excellent accessibility for adaptive riders and wheelchair users. Along the way, you’ll be treated to both farmland and forest views, few people, and charming towns for restful breaks.

LNT tip: Vermont is a great place to keep it local. When it comes time to recharge, grab some goodies from the general store in Castleton or Poultney, or stop at a farm stand along the way.

4. Peak-bagging: Mt. Equinox

Photo: Steven Noroian/Shutterstock

This 3,840-foot-high mountain near Manchester, the most prominent in southern Vermont, is actually not a Green Mountain but the northernmost (and highest) peak in the adjacent Taconic Range. The Burr & Burton Trail (aka Blue Summit Trail) ascends steeply for 3.1 miles to the summit, which is shared with an auto toll road but has an excellent visitor center and memorable view. Be sure to stop at the spring halfway up, which gushes from the mountainside with immense power.

LNT tip: You’ll probably want some snacks to keep you fueled on this climb. Just make sure to pack out any trash you generate.

5. Mountain biking smorgasbord: Woodstock

Photo: Vermont Tourism

The town of Woodstock is rapidly becoming a mountain biking capital, with three nearby networks of downhill and cross-country trails. Mt. Peg is the largest, with many miles of flowing trails for all abilities, while the 13 miles of riding at Aqueduct Trails is a close second. Meanwhile, the Saskadena Six ski resort will have even the strongest cyclists breathing hard with its steep climbs and thrilling descents.

LNT tip: Remember that riders traveling uphill on a two-way trail have the right of way.

6. Hiking in the capital: State House Trail

Photo: Vermont Tourism

Anybody who visits Vermont’s charming capital of Montpelier should take a short walk on this wonderful path. Right down the street from the Capitol, the gently climbing State House Trail leads through pleasant woods to a stone observation tower. Come in the morning and be back in downtown for lunch at one of several excellent local restaurants.

LNT tip: Always stay on designated trails, even during mud season, to avoid unnecessary erosion and damage to adjacent areas.

7. Biking made accessible: The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail

Photo: Sara B Johnson/Shutterstock

At 93 miles, the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail is the longest in New England, connecting 18 towns as it traverses the state from St. Johnsbury to Swanton. Some might choose to tackle it as a multi-day adventure or a madcap daylong ride, but most will probably bite off smaller sections for an out-and-back or one-way trip (the 15-mile stretch between Cambridge and Morristown is especially popular). You can also rent a bike, join a tour, or organize a shuttle here. Be sure to check trail conditions before you visit.

LNT tip: While riding, be sure to announce your presence while passing slower riders and pedestrians, and keep to single file if you’re in a group to leave room for folks going the other way.

8. Hiking among wildlife: Discovery Trail

Just north of the scenic Lake Champlain Islands is the Discovery Trail at the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge. Famous for its migratory birdlife, the preserve offers access to 6,700 acres of wildlife habitat, including the largest concentration of waterfowl on the lake. The Discovery Trail is a one-mile trail that’s accessible to all, utilizing boardwalks, gravel paths, and mowed trails.

LNT tip: When it comes to wildlife, remember: never approach, don’t feed, control your pets (or leave them at home), and avoid wild animals during sensitive times (such as winter or during mating and nesting seasons).

9. Epic paddling: Northern Forest Canoe Trail

Photo: Vermont Tourism

The Northern Forest Canoe Trail is a 740-mile paddling route that meanders from the western Adirondacks to northern Maine. While you may not have the time (or inclination) to devote several months to a once-in-a-lifetime canoe adventure, Vermont has a few sections that are suitable for day trips. One is Nulhegan Fen, an eight-mile stretch of the Nulhegan River in the Northeast Kingdom. Expect endless solitude and lots of beavers (including dams you may have to portage around).

LNT tip: Clean your canoe before putting in (to avoid introducing invasive species) and be careful not to crush native vegetation as you glide through these magical waters.

10. Biking for everyone: Beebe Spur Rail Trail

At the southern end of the massive, border-spanning Lake Memphremagog is the lovely Beebe Spur Rail Trail, which skirts the lake’s eastern shoreline all the way to Canada. The four-mile rail trail is accessible to all (even dogs are welcome) and is groomed for cross-country skiing in winter. Start in Newport and head north to enjoy the amazing lake views. The name, by the way, is Algonquian for “where there is a big expanse of water.”

LNT tip: Keep your pooch in control at all times (equestrians also use the trail), and remember to bag and remove anything your pet leaves behind.

Setting your sights on Vermont’s less-trafficked trails is an LNT tip in itself. It’s also a surefire way to see just how much incredible outdoors the Green Mountain State has to offer.

The best luxury forest accomodations

For generations, Americans have ventured into the vast, ancient forests of the United States seeking spiritual, emotional, and physical rejuvenation, indelibly blending the concepts of restoration and peace with being in the woods. That notion of forest wellness still persists to this day, but instead of decamping into the woods to sleep in a tent or going off the grid, the idea of a forest retreat has evolved to include all plush perks we now associate with wellness: extravagant dwellings, stone hot tubs, fine dining, and even air-conditioning. Luxury forest retreats across the United States are rapidly becoming the best way to discover the charms of the forest, combining relaxation with only the best amenities that money can buy. From glamping tents to upscale treehouses to elegant Western-style cabins, these are the top luxury forest getaways in the US.

The Resort at Paws Up — Greenough, Montana

Photo: The Resort at Paws Up/Facebook

Set on a 37,000-acre working cattle ranch in western Montana, where mountains and pristine forests give way to vast plains under endless skies, the Resort at Paws Up has long had a reputation for high-end backcountry retreats with its deluxe cabins and equestrian-themed activities. But the best way to experience the Montana wilderness is by staying in its fancy glamping tents.

Set in a variety of locations around the huge ranch — from the middle of the forest to woodsy creek-side overlooks — the safari-style but Wild West-themed tents (which range in size from 500 to over 1,000 square feet) come outfitted with features like freestanding bathtubs, plush king beds, indoor air-conditioned seating areas, and large front decks with Adirondack chairs. The camps come with their own chefs who prepare “refined rustic ranch” meals, but you can also check out the resort’s many restaurants and culinary activities. During the day, guests can take part in resort activities like horseback riding and fly fishing, or take short drives to explore the nearby national forests or Glacier National Park.

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Blackberry Mountain — Walland, Tennessee

Photo: Blackberry Mountain

Opened earlier this year to great acclaim, Blackberry Mountain is the sister property of the beloved Blackberry Farm, famed for its farm-to-table cuisine and backcountry Tennessee charm. But this bucolic 5,200-acre resort — surrounded by virgin forests in the heart of Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains — takes the concept one step further by wholly embracing the wilderness’s role in rejuvenation and wellness through rugged daily outdoor activities like hikes, mountain biking, rock climbing, and canoeing. There are also less strenuous activities like chef-led hikes where gourmet meals are prepared trail-side.

At the end of the day, guests return, weary but content, to the lodge for wholesome, farm-fresh meals at the two restaurants, specialty treatments in the underground spa, and soaking up the top-of-the-world views from the outdoor infinity pool, before retiring for the night to either a grand Watchman Cabin or an elegantly rustic Stone Cottage. And if you’re too tired to walk from the main lodge to your cabin, don’t worry; just have one of the on-site Lexus cars take you.

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Mohonk Mountain House — New Paltz, New York

Photo: Mohonk Mountain House/Facebook

For generations, upstate New York has been the last word in combining summer fun like hiking and water sports with only the best in lodgings, cuisine, and amenities. And one of the absolute finest places to retreat from the hustle and bustle of the world is at the Mohonk Mountain House in the Hudson Valley, just 90 miles north of NYC. The European-style resort, which overlooks Lake Mohonk, was first built in 1869 and has over the years been vastly expanded to the castle-like wonder it is today, with 259 plush, Victorian-styled rooms; farm-to-table dining; a spa; indoor pool; and outdoorsy activities like hikes through the nearby 40,000-acre woodlands, boating, fishing, and kayaking.

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Twin Farms — Barnard, Vermont

Photo: Twin Farms/Facebook

Surrounded by the peaceful silence and tranquil views of 300 acres of pristine Vermont woodland, the five-star, all-inclusive Twin Farms resort is well worth its hefty price tag. The main resort is housed in a historic farmhouse from the late 1700s but sumptuously upgraded, with additional cabins, cottages, and suites located nearby. The aesthetic themes vary from room to room, with some harkening back to the resort’s historic New England roots while others go for a more refined, ultra-modern feel, and each space has its own unique amenities like stone hot tubs and large, forest-view windows. At the main lodge, guests partake in decadent meals prepared with local ingredients and can relax at the spa or take part in daytime activities like a tour of the resort’s bee farm or going cycling with a gourmet picnic.

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Post Ranch Inn — Big Sur, California

Photo: Post Ranch Inn/Facebook

While the Post Ranch Inn made its name with its artsy contemporary bungalows, suites, and guesthouses perched 1,200 feet above California’s scenic Big Sur coastline, the wooded interior of the 100-acre property also houses several luxury treehouses. Elevated nine feet above the forest floor, the treehouses allow for complete forest immersion with stargazing skylights over the beds, private mountain-viewing decks, and large windows looking out on the surrounding woods. Similar to the other dwellings on the property, the staircase-accessible treehouses feature a sleek, contemporary design and other cushy amenities like a wood-burning fireplace, gourmet meals, restorative activities like hiking and yoga, and access to all of the resort’s features like the cliffside infinity pool.

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ROAM Beyond — Washington State

Photo: ROAM Beyond/Facebook

Often, gaining access to the most remote wilderness locations requires roughing it and then spending the night in an uncomfortable tent. But ROAM Beyond, a new Seattle-based glamping company, thinks that being able to escape to the woods shouldn’t mean having to sacrifice comfort and style, and has launched a network of off-the-grid glamping sites around Washington where guests stay in wooden boutique campers. All of the amenities for a high-end camping experience are provided and guests only need to bring personal items, desired food, and their sense of adventure. Each camper comes equipped with a queen bed, kitchenette area, a bathroom, and hot water, as well as camping essentials like cooking tools. Best of all, the campers — the outsides of which are beautifully paneled in dark wood and topped with gleaming steel — are sustainable, with solar power systems and composting toilets. Currently, there are only two sites open — on the Olympic Peninsula in Kalaloch, Washington, and North Bend, Washington — but there are plans to open more soon in places like Joshua Tree and Yellowstone National Park.

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Under Canvas — Glacier National Park, Montana

Photo: Under Canvas Glacier/Facebook

Ditching the standard safari-tent model for more whimsical designs, Under Canvas is earning quite the reputation for its glamping destinations around the US, but its site near Glacier National Park is one of the best. Hidden inside of a pine forest just a short drive from the park, its deluxe tents are especially suited for vacationing families or large groups, as the spacious tents feature en-suite bathrooms and multiple beds. A large front porch with leaning chairs offers relaxing views of the surroundings, and wood-burning stoves keep the tents nice and warm at night. While it’s easy to get out and explore Glacier on your own, Under Canvas also has its own activities like llama trekking and rafting.

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Dunton River Camp — Dunton, Colorado

Photo: Jack Richmond/Dunton Destinations

There is no shortage of opulent cabins and forest escapes in Colorado. But the Dunton River Camp still manages to stand out from the pack. Housed on a 500-acre former cattle ranch, Dunton’s eight luxurious, safari-esque tents allow guests all of the comforts and amenities of a high-end resort but in the middle of the San Juan Mountains’ immaculate nature. Guests can choose between staying in the Mountain or River tents (the Mountain ones are tucked away inside of the forest and offer mountain views) and come with a spacious front deck, king bed, en-suite bathroom, and contemporary Western decor. The resort is just a short drive from charming mountain towns like Telluride and tons of outdoorsy activities like hiking in summer and skiing in winter, but the resort does offer its own excursions as well, like horseback riding and fly fishing.

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Pahaska Teepee Resort — Cody, Wyoming

Photo courtesy Pahaska Teepee Resort

The Pahaska Teepee Resort was at one time owned by Buffalo Bill Cody himself, so you know you’re experiencing the true west here. The resort combines a unique blend of rustic charm with amenities like a spa and guided excursions on horseback, as well as fishing and cross-country skiing right from your doorstep. The resort also features a spa where you can unwind and rejuvenate after a day of exploration. The accommodations range from cozy cabins to the iconic teepee-inspired rooms, ensuring a memorable stay for every traveler.

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The Grand Hacienda Luxury Inn and Gourmet Breakfast — Youngsville, New Mexico

Photo courtesy Grand Hacienda Luxury Inn

This secluded boutique estate offers three luxurious guest suites, each meticulously designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape. You’re immersed in the flora and fauna of the high-desert landscape, in comfort with amenities like a shared full kitchen, a cozy great room with a kiva fireplace, and common outdoor spaces. Unwind in the hot tub, roast marshmallows by the fire pit, or have a drink while taking in the views of Abiquiu Lake. The small number of guests onsite at any given time makes everything from the customer service to the breakfast (the gourmet breakfast is part of the official name of the property, after all), quite personalized.

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How Unpacking Your Suitcase at Your Hotel Can Lead to Bed Bugs

While many travelers know to check for bed bugs in hotels beds before laying in them, not seeing any on the mattress, boxspring, or headboard does not mean there are not any in the room. Because, despite their name, beds are not the only place where the critters live.

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), bed bugs tend to live within eight feet of where people sleep, including in all sorts of pieces of furniture, especially if they have cracks and crevices, including dressers. Instagram’s Dr.Jayson comfirms it in a recent video.

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So if you have the habit of unpacking your belongings into the hotel room furniture instead of keeping it in your suitcase, you should probably stop. You should also refrain from putting your suitcase on top of the hotel bed or on the carpet to make sure it does not get contaminated. Traveling with a hardshell case instead of a softsided one is also a good preventive measure as the bugs are less likely to get into your stuff.

While ingenious solution to fight bed bugs are available, including Spotta, a 24/7 bed bug detection device which top hotels around the world already use, travelers should stay alert and always make sure to check their hotel rooms thoroughly before they settle.

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These Easy Packing Hiking Shoes Are Built for Summer Adventure, From Trail to Town

Many Colorado residents approach every weekend like an outdoor challenge. Snow sports in the winter, climbing, mountain biking, and hiking in the summer. My approach since moving to Denver in 2021 has been much more laid back, but I’m no stranger to throwing myself into a hike that ends up far more difficult than intended. The Ridgeway Mesh Low from Xero Shoes has kept me ready for it all through these first warmer months this year and are easy to pack for any adventure — from the trail to the brewery.

Xero was started by husband and wife team Steven Sashen and Lena Phoenix in Boulder, Colorado, as Feel The World, Inc. in 2009. Steven had turned to barefoot running to combat sprinting injuries after being given the book Born To Run by Christopher McDougall. After a couple of classes with the Boulder Barefoot Running Club, he realized the running style did help with injuries, but there are a whole lot of places where bare feet simply aren’t feasible. So he made some huarache running sandals using Vibram for the running sole.

Fast forward half a year and the two had a shoe company (first called Invisible Shoes) and consultation from designers from Nike and Reebok to design FeelTrue outsoles. Today, an iteration of that original huarache is still on the site. Xero also has a wider range of hiking shoes and casual footwear sold around the world, from road runners to hiking boots ready for adventure right out of the box to the Ridgeway Mesh Low.

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

Buy Now: $119.95Testing the Xero Shoes Ridgeway Mesh

Photo: Nickolaus Hines

Shortly after unboxing the shoes, I took them on a weekend trip to a cabin just outside of Breckenridge. I tied them tight to walk a few miles, mostly on a paved surface, into town with my one-and-a-half-year-old strapped to my back for a nice dinner at Radicato. The shoes are light — about 11 ounces — and have a sleek profile that doesn’t feel out of place at a nicer restaurant. Just as importantly, they’re comfortable.

I know I’ve landed on the right shoes for the moment when no amount of walking starts to chafe and I don’t have to think about fitting in with the crowd (I wouldn’t try to pull them off for a truly fancy occasion, but mountain fancy is no problem). If it weren’t for the small pops of bright-orange on the heel, the trail shoes would be near indistinguishable from your standard everyday shoe.

Photo: Nickolaus Hines

A deeper test came the following month on a family trip to Sitka, Alaska. Again with my baby on my back, my group set off on Harbor Mountain Trail to the alpine cabin and Gavin Hill trail. The five or so miles on the moderate hike wind through forest and out to the peaks overlooking the water until culminating at an alpine hut with an elevation gain of about 1,000 feet.

It’s an easy place to get caught up in the views. Wildflowers lined the first half of the path in early July. Farther up, the trail climbs to the treeline tracing the ridge, and the subalpine environment turns from spongy muskeg to rocks that can get slick in the misty cloud cover, and then rock stairs up to the top by the hut.

None of it was a problem for the grippy outsoles, even with a toddler who gets easily distracted and likes to lean side to side for a closer look at each passing flower, interesting (and also not that interesting) rock, bird, and bumblebee. I could feel the small scattered rocks and uneven surfaces through the thin TrailFoam midsole, but in a way that felt connected to the ground rather than uncomfortable. The shoes are flexible with a protective toe guard perfect for rocks and root-strewn dirt alike.

Photo: Nickolaus Hines

My long sleeve shirt was the wrong choice and I quickly sweat through it. My feet, however, remained cool thanks to the breathable, vegan-friendly mesh. Naturally, the Ridgeway Mesh Low were just as much a fit for a post-hike beer and pizza at Harbor Mountain Brewing, staying true to the trail-to-urban ethos that make the shoes so versatile.

On other days that trip, the salt spray from exploring tidepools dried and wiped clean quickly, and the sole gave just as much traction on the rocky coast of Washington even when sandy and hopping along pieces of driftwood.

Photo: Nickolaus Hines

An easy packing shoe that travels well

I’m a light packer, especially with the kid in tow when diapers and backup outfits claim half of my small Away carryon. The Ridgeway Mesh Low’s light weight and small, flexible profile easily squeeze into my luggage — no small ask when packing just a carryon for a nine-day trip through Alaska, Seattle, and Bellingham, Washington.

I don’t foresee jumping into the barefoot lifestyle anytime soon. Low-profile outdoor shoes with a thin sole are just right, though. They’ve quickly become my go-to for trips where I know I’ll be doing any sort of outdoor activities that don’t require ultra-specialized footwear.

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This Costa Rica Lodge Makes Sure Everyone Sees a Whale, or Gets a Free Massage

Costa Rica has lots of reasons to visit, from touring the famous cloud forests to epic beaches around Tamarindo and lush hikes to hidden jungle waterfalls. But if you’re a wildlife enthusiast, one of the main draws of visiting the country may be the high likelihood of spotting the country’s many whale species. Costa Rica’s waters boast an impressive whale population, with records indicating that up to 34 species of whales and dolphins call its coasts home.

That’s especially true around the country’s Golfo Dulce, a vital breeding ground for humpback whales along the southern Pacific coast in the Puntarenas Province. The humpbacks undertake the longest documented mammalian migration on Earth, traveling from Antarctica’s frigid waters to the Golfo Dulce’s every year between July and November. During this time, females give birth in the sheltered water, and males hang out in the outer gulf, anxious for breeding opportunities. The region is so well known for whales that the World Cetacean Alliance declared it a Certified Whale Heritage Site in 2022.

Photo: nuriajudit/Shutterstock

That draws thousands of travelers to the region, many of whom stay at resorts like Playa Cativo Lodge, just across from the Osa Peninsula. While it’s hardly the only luxury eco-lodge in the region, it just introduced a selling point that may give it a leg up against the competition, at least when it comes to drawing whale-focused travelers: a “whale warranty.”

The lodge offers lots of wildlife-focused activities, but guests who book the Dolphin and Whale-Watching Quest tour can feel pretty good about their chances of spotting humpback whales. Between August and October, if guests don’t see a humpback whale on the tour, they’ll get the tour fully refunded. And on top of that, to make the pain of not seeing whales a little better, Playa Cativo will give guests a free 60-minute spa treatment, too. With the whale warranty, guests can have the money back in their pockets, or put it toward wildlife activities like another whale-watching attempt, a nighttime rainforest hike, or a wilderness tour in Corcovado National Park.

 

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Rates at Playa Cativo Lodge between August and October start in the high $400s per night. If that’s too steep, travelers can always stay somewhere less expensive and book whale-watching tours through local companies based around Puerto Jimenez on the Osa Penninsula.

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