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This Minimalist Travel Wallet Looks Sleek and Carries Only What I Need

To understand why I’ve used the Nomatic travel wallet for nearly 10 years, you first must understand who I was before. I was the butt-bulge guy – the one who could never sit comfortably for long periods without the wallet in my back pocket sending a ripple of asymmetrically-induced pain to my rear, up through my back, and finally, into my neck. I had a Costanza wallet, and it was bad. Like, real bad. Due to the lack of eyes in the back of my head, I never noticed how ridiculous it must have looked to anyone walking behind me. But after many years I did, at last, come to terms with the fact that I simply didn’t need to have 17 business cards, three months of receipts, and a photo collage documenting the life of my sister’s long-since-deceased dog with me at all times.

 

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It must have been my fourth or fifth time through international customs that brought this realization to light. In 2015, I first heard the term “digital nomad” and immediately clung to anything containing a variation of the phrase. This is how I originally chose the Nomatic wallet from the slew of minimalist travel wallets available. But it was the wallet’s eight years of durability and efficiency that led me to buy another one last year.

We hope you love the Nomatic Wallet! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you make a purchase..

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The Nomatic Wallet is perfect for those always on the go

Photo: Tim WengerPhoto: Tim Wenger
When you move around a lot, you start to pick up on the fact that less is more. Switching my wallet from the Costanza to the austere made ditching anything unnecessary simple. The Nomatic Wallet has but one pouch – an elastic card-sized pouch that comprises the entirety of the wallet itself. It’s big enough to fit up to 15 cards, though I tend to carry only about seven with me. That leaves room for business cards I pick up at conferences or while working on stories on the road.

A pull-tab that also serves as the wallet’s base helps you access cards inside the wallet. It pulls them up for easy access, so you don’t have to use your nails digging a card out of the middle of the pile. Once you’ve retrieved the card you need, push the stack back down, and you can easily slip the retrieved card back in once you’re done using it.The wallet has a separate slip for cash located on the outside of the elastic pocket.

That’s about it as far as the wallet’s features. It’s a minimalist wallet, after all. It’s slim, comes in black, light blue, or gray, and looks quite clean and presentable even after years of use. My first one began to wear after eight years of constant travel and daily use, and because the wallet only costs $19.99 I had no issue replacing it with another of the same. As is the primary appeal of minimalist travel wallets, the biggest win of the Nomatic Wallet is what you don’t see, don’t carry, and don’t have to deal with. I have only what I need – from a debit card to a credit card to my Global Entry ID and Driver License – and not the pain-inducing nonsense that tends to pile up when you have more space than you need.

What to note about the Nomatic Wallet

Photo: Tim WengerPhoto: Tim Wenger
One important thing to keep in mind about the Nomatic Wallet is that, due to its elasticity, it cannot return to its original form once stretched. If you immediately put 15 credit cards in it, you’re committed to keeping 15 with you going forward because the wallet will stretch to accommodate that number of cards and won’t be able to go backward. This means that a drastic reduction in cards or items in the wallet can lead to what’s in there falling out when inverted. The same is true of the cash slip – if I only have one or two bills, I’ll keep them in the card slot because I don’t want them to fall out of the cash slip.

Overall, I’m very happy with the Nomatic Wallet and have plans to change to another anytime soon. I’m on my second, and now that I think of it, may as well buy another just so I have it on hand down line.

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Sterling Pacific Has Dramatically Improved Its Luxury Rolling Aluminum Suitcases

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 make a purchase. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

 

When a brand listens to its customers’ wants and needs and improves its products accordingly, the result can only be a success. This is exactly what Sterling Pacific, makers of luxury aluminum suitcases, did recently by adding four new designs to its previous offering of two.

Until June 2024, Sterling Pacific made and sold only two rolling aluminum suitcases, the 35L Cabin Travel Case and the 80L Check-in Travel Case, both of which were, and still are, standout baggage of excellent quality. That said, much like everything, there was room for improvement. I thoroughly tested the 35L Cabin Travel Case in late 2023 and the main issue with this piece of luggage was its wheels. While they ran very smoothly, there were only two of them, meaning that travelers always had to pull the case behind them. In my December 2023 review, I wrote: “Four independent swivelling wheels is a more standard design nowadays and it’s one that would improve the ease of use of this particular piece of luggage, allowing travelers to push the case alongside them when needed.”

Less than six months later, Sterling Pacific launched four four-wheel cases: two 40L Cabin Travel Cases and two 90L Check-in Travel Cases. All four new models feature four swivelling wheels that spin effortlessly, dramatically improving an already nearly faultless product. (note that both the 35L Cabin Travel Case and the 80L Check-in Travel Case are still available for purchase on Sterling Pacific’s website.)

But that’s not all.

Along with more and better wheels, Sterling Pacific’s new products got bigger. The carry-on versions took on an additional five liters of capacity while the check-in cases became 10 liters bigger. While some may worry that a bigger carry-on with non-recessed wheels might translate into a luggage that’s too big to fit in the overhead compartment, Sterling Pacific had thought of everything. “We’ve achieved this increase while still adhering to the maximum allowable carry-on size regulations on almost all major American airlines,” James Rodgers, Sterling Pacific’s President, explains in an email.

Photo: Jesse Adams

I have personally tested it on four flights outside of the US and was asked to check the suitcase only once, but I’m convinced it was only the result of a zealous check-in counter agent — I had a good look and the overhead compartments were plenty big for it. Unfortunately for me, despite using the luggage cover to protect it, this beautiful and luxurious carry-on got dinged a little in the process.

A change of look

Beyond the practical improvements are also some aesthetic ones. The 40L Cabin Travel Case and the 90L Check-in Travel Case come in two colorways: silver and black. Note that both models are made of airplane-grade aluminum, but instead of the generic silver color of aluminum, you can now opt for a jet back case that looks very much like what James Bond, or one of his enemies, would choose to travel the world. And it’s not just the case that’s black: the leather handles, the hinges, the wheels, the lining — everything is coordinated.

Photo: Morgane Croissant

The interior of the case has also undergone some positive changes. The lining, which is a twill in the 35L Cabin Travel Case and the 80L Check-in Travel Case, is a butter-soft suede-like fabric in the new 40L Cabin Travel Cases and the 90L Check-in Travel Cases, making the luggage feel even more luxurious. In the silver version, the lining is a dark brown, matching the color of the leather handles, while in the jet back luggage it is a deep black.

The new 40L Cabin Travel Case. Photos: Morgane CroissantThe 35L Cabin travel Case. Photo: Jesse Adams

There’s one change in the appearance in the new models that I’m still on the fence about. The 35L Cabin Travel Case and the 80L Check-in Travel Case were designed as vintage trunks, with a slim lid that stood open while packing, however, the new 40L and 90L models, while still zipper-free, open as a butterfly, with both sides of the case being of equal size, taking away the retro feel that I particularly enjoyed.

The specs

Sterling Pacific’s 40L Cabin Travel Case:

Dimensions in inches: 22.5 x 14 x 9 Volume in liters: 40Weigh in pounds: 12Price in USD: $2,150

Sterling Pacific’s 90L Check-in Travel Case:

Dimensions in inches: 32.5 x 19 x 10.5Volume in liters: 90Weigh in pounds: 15.7Price in USD: $2,650

 

Buy Sterling Pacific’s 40L Cabin Travel Case in silver now

Buy Sterling Pacific’s 40L Cabin Travel Case in jet black now

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Glamp With Tigers at This Wildlife Refuge in the Ozarks

Waking up to the roar of a tiger is an intimidating prospect. It doesn’t have to be, however, at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. That’s because here, you can glamp at a safe distance from the cats but still be close enough to take in the sights, smells, and sounds of their habitat.

The Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a big cat sanctuary located in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. The sanctuary operates as a non-profit organization that provides a forever home to big cats that have been abused, abandoned, or who are former circus or other performance cats that are now retired. retired from performing. Other animals also take refuge here, but the tigers are the most prominent (and the coolest to see from a safe distance).

The tiger habitats at Turpentine Creek are designed to replicate the animals’ natural habitats around the world, at east as much as is possible in the Ozarks. The habitats are large and spacious, with plenty of room for the tigers to roam and explore grassy fields, trees, rocks, and pools of water.

 Glamping at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

Glamping at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the Ozarks and spend the night near majestic big cats. The tents are named after some of the refuge’s most popular residents: Bam Bam’s Bungalow and Tigris Tent. Both tents are suitable for families with children of all ages and are available from March to November.

Instead of wrestling with tent poles and sleeping bags, you’ll get to relax in a spacious glamping tent that comes with all the comforts of home, including:

Plush bedsLounge space with heat andair conditioningA mini-fridge, coffee maker, and microwaveEpic views and the real vibe of sleeping in the jungle

Of course, you don’t have to sleep there if the prospect sounds intimidating. Day tickets to the refuge are $32 for adults, $20 for kids, with kids under three in for free. It’s also possible to sponsor an animal or make a donation to the organization in other ways. Accommodations start at $200 per night, with the comfort of knowing your money is helping these animals live a better life.

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United Airlines Can Now Text You Live Weather Maps Showing Why Your Flight Is Delayed

If you’re a rule followers and arrive at the airport hours before your flight, nothing is more frustrating than a schedule delay, no matter how short. You’ve already been waiting for ages and have no interest in spending another minute in the airport. What makes such a situation even more frustrating, however, is not knowing why your flight is delayed. Is it the airline’s fault? Is it the airport’s fault? What’s going on? Travelers want to know.

Just three weeks ago, as I was traveling from Canada to Europe, my connecting flight from Vancouver to Amsterdam, was delayed by two hours, making my already-long layover stretch for eight insufferable hours. The delay also meant that I was going to miss my next connecting flight in Amsterdam. To say that I was unhappy that day was an understatement — I was livid. There were no explanations for the delay and I was furiously looking into how I could obtain financial compensation from KLM. When I learned, hours later, that my flight had been delayed coming from Amsterdam because it had to make a medical emergency landing in Reykjavik, Iceland, I was a lot less belligerent. Not only did my delayed flight was nobody’s fault, but someone had a much worse day than me. Knowing made all the difference.

United Airlines understands that keeping information from passengers in case of flight delays does nothing more than aggravate them, that’s why the airline, with the help of generative artificial intelligence (gen AI), now texts passengers links to real-time radar maps during weather delays. With a radar map showing weather in real time from across the flight path, air travelers can see for themselves the reason for a delay, and even anticipate one. Of course, it won’t fix the setback, but it’ll help passengers know who to blame: the clouds, not the United Airlines employees behind the desk at the airport.

This is not the only initiative from United Airlines meant to offer air travelers as much transparency as possible. The airline already informs passengers by emails or texts of timely flight details, including gate changes, boarding time, aircraft change, and more.

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A Meteorologist Says Why He Never Books Red-Eye Flights in the Summer

In a recent TikTok video shared by “WeatherChris,” a meteorologist explains why he recommends never booking a red-eye flight in summer.

@weatherchris Why you should NEVER book a night flight during the summer   (And what to do if you’re a giant idiot like me and end up doing it anyway) #weather #travel #meteorologist #flights #storms #aviation ♬ original sound – Chris BianchiMeteorologist

While frequent travelers may find the advice fairly obvious, it’s worth noting that summer flight delays are indeed the most common. Of course, the summer storms meteorologist Chris Bianchi discusses aren’t the only reason for the delays, which are also influenced by an increased number of travelers and limited airline and airport staff. More people traveling in the summer means more time spent boarding and disembarking planes, less free time for staff, and fewer available seats to accommodate travelers whose original flights get cancelled or delayed. And some airports are so busy that it doesn’t take much of an interruption for delays to start piling up, no matter what the time of year.

While it’s reasonable to think that flight delays would be worst in the winter, those storms are usually more localized, a representative for FlightAware told the Washington Post in July of 2024. Thunderstorms are wider spread and cause more significant operational changes, according to former pilot and FlightAware representative Kathleen Bangs.

Unfortunately, the later in the day your flight is, the more likely it is to be impacted by earlier summer flight delays. Even if the weather is ideal in your location, your plane, flight crew, or pilot may be coming from an airport that had delays. Delays can compound and back up over the day, and by the time your late-night flight rolls around, the plane could be hours behind schedule. Airlines can usually readjust overnight, meaning that morning flights are much less likely to have significant delays.

Photo: Salty View/Shutterstock

On TikTok, Bianchi had some advice that may be useful to travelers unfamiliar with two airplane tools: FlightAware and FlightRadar24. Both allow you to track your plane to see where its coming from, allowing you to see if delays with your plane are starting to pile up. Some airline apps have a similar functionality; for example, United’s newest app update has a “where is my plane coming from?” feature. However, FlightAware and FlightRadar24 generally have more in-depth reporting available.

WeatherChris’ second piece of advice for avoiding weather delays make sense, but may not always be feasible. He advises that if it looks like your plane is going to be delayed, you should book an entirely separate flight as a back up. The important part is to make sure it’s fully refundable, so you don’t have to pay for it if your original flight pans out. Most airlines charge extra if you want the flight to be fully refundable, and may require you to book something beyond a basic economy or economy fare for the privilege.

Photo: Grusho Anna/Shutterstock

However, there’s one rule that applies to every airline within the US: The that all airlines must provide a full refund if the customer cancels a booking within 24 hours of making the reservation. However, that rule goes out the window if you book your ticket within seven days of take-off, so it’s really more useful if it looks like a hurricane or major storm may impact flight operations — not for day-to-day weather events.

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This US National Seashore Can Charge $3,000 if You Need an Emergency Rescue

When most people visit one of America’s 63 national parks, or one of the other 366 sites managed by the National Park Service, they probably don’t think much about what happens if something goes wrong. Since all the park service sites are federally managed, if something goes wrong, you can just call for help, and someone will quickly come and rescue you. Right?

Well, that is right, mostly. But what would surprise people is if help came to get you, and while they were helping you, they handed you a bill for $3,000 to fund your rescue. But that’s exactly what may happen at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore near Traverse City, Michigan, which covers 35 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan.

The park’s centerpiece is the Sleeping Bear Dune Climb, a massive dune that rises over 450 feet above the lake. Visitors can hike to the top of the park’s dunes for breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and surrounding landscape. And as well-known travel host Samantha Brown shared on TikTok, you can also hike down the dune to the lake level — but if you can’t make it back up on your own, you could pay up to $3,000 for your rescue.

 

@samanthabrowntravels Would you try this? #sleepingbeardunes #lakemichigan #michigan #traversecity @Traverse City ♬ original sound – Samantha Brown

That may seem unfair, but the national seashore makes it very, very obvious that the route down to the waterline is steep. According to the TiKTok video, the steep route down to the shoreline has a 33 percent downhill grade. That makes the trek back up particularly difficult, especially as the terrain is all sand, with absolutely no shade. All this is posted on signs atop the dunes.

Warning signs at Sleeping Bear Dunes. Photo: Bo Shen/Shutterstock

The National Park Services uses multiple methods to rescue hikers who can’t make it back up. Sometimes, they just send someone down on foot with food and water. If the water level is low and beach is wide enough, they can drive a vehicle down to the shoreline to rescue the hikers. But some retrievals are more complicated, requiring assistance from area firefighting organizations, complex pulley and rope systems, or even rescue via water, if getting someone out by boat is the only option. Park rangers have gone on the record saying that the park will not charge $3,000 for a Sleeping Bear Dunes rescue — but area organizations that may need to assist in the rescue certainly could.

According to park officials, there were 31 rescue calls in 2017 from the Lake Michigan Overlook and the Dune Climb in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore — more calls even than Yellowstone National Park in the same year. In more recent years, the number of rescues has dropped dramatically, with just 11 calls between Memorial Day and Labor Day 2023. That’s likely due to both roving members of a preventative search and rescue team, as well as the large signs warning would-be hikers of the hefty potential fine.

Do National Park Service sites usually charge for rescues?

Photo: NPS/Ally O’Rullian/Public Domain

The Sleeping Bear Dunes rescue policy is in line with most other national park sites, which generally do not charge for emergency rescues. However, parks can levy fines for recklessness or unsafe behavior, if that’s what led to the rescue. It can also charge visitors if they intentionally engage in any behavior that causes damage within the park site. The National Park Service accounts for the costs of rescues in its annual operating budget, and many search and rescue team personnel operate on a volunteer basis.

However, other organizations not affiliated with the sites that may be required for rescue are allowed to charge for their services, as is the case with Sleeping Bear Dunes rescues. For that reason (and many others), it’s always best to avoid putting yourself in situations where you’re unsure of your abilities and may not be able to get back to a trailhead (or any other place of safety) on your own. Knowing a bit of backcountry safety information can go a long way.

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A ‘City of the Future’ Is Being Built Around One of the World’s Busiest Airports

One of the biggest and busiest airports in the country may soon be more than just an airport — it may be a hub for a thriving “aerotropolis.”

If you’ve ever flown into Denver International Airport, you probably know it’s not actually in downtown Denver. It’s about a 45-minute drive from the airport to downtown Denver with no traffic, or you can take a $10 train ride from the airport and reach downtown in about the same time. That means there’s lots of undeveloped land around Denver International Airport, even though it’s one of the busiest airports in the world.

But if a development plan moves forward, flying into Denver may eventually look a bit different. Instead of seeing the airport surrounded by agricultural land and empty fields, travelers may soon see an entire functioning city, with the airport smack in the middle.

An “aerotropolis” is a city built around an airport as its central hub. The Colorado Aerotropolis proposal describes it as being focused on “collaborative, responsible development,” proposing to build a center that attracts businesses that can benefit from having air transportation steps away, including “advanced manufacturing, aerospace, agriculture, renewable energy and healthcare” businesses. The project is supported by area partners ranging from Adams County, Colorado, to the City of Denver and City of Aurora, among others.

There’s currently not a lot of development around Denver International Airport. Photo: Ted Alexander Somerville/Shutterstock

While that may seem boring to travelers, having development near an airport creates economic growth in the region, which can lead to airport updates and expansions that make it easier and quicker to move through the airport as a traveler. And in the short term, it means you may not be bored if you have a long layover. In other cities with similar aerotropolises, you can tour a flight museum (Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta), see the world’s largest flower auction and marketplace (Amsterdam Airport Schiphol), or hit up designer shopping outlets and stay in a luxury Fairmont hotel at Vancouver International Airport.

In interviews about the new Colorado Aerotropolis, developers pointed to other major airports with similar development models as the goal of what they hope to create in Denver. Atlanta, for example, is currently building its own aerotropolis, with plans to have a tourism center within it. And other cities around the world already have similar models. Singapore’s Changi international airport is home to the Jewel, a massive entertainment and shopping development with an on-site hotel and the famous “rain vortex,” the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. And in Munich, Germany, a growing aerotropolis outside the airport is home to not just high-tech businesses and manufacturers, but also a large shopping area, a traditional beer garden and restaurants, a mini-golf course, and more.

Singapore’s aerotropolis is one of the most famous in the world. Photo: myphotobank.com.au/Shutterstock

The futuristic mini-city is the result of a ballot initiative in Colorado in which voters agreed to open 1,500 acres around the airport to development, with the goal of creating additional tax revenue and creating jobs for cities around the Denver area. It’s a long-term project, estimated to bring in tax revenue of about $630 million to the region by 2040.

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If You Want to Understand Dining and Drinking in Japan, You Must First Understand Shochu

As someone who has centered his work around food, drinks, and traveling to find the best of both for the past 10 years, I am often asked which countries and cities have the best dining and drinking culture. It is an impossible question to answer. Yet Japan tends to spring to mind more often than others for me.

Japan’s culinary draws are well known and, in my opinion, even the highest praise doesn’t veer into the realm of exaggeration. There’s sushi — from conveyor belt sushi to high-priced omakase — ramen, soba, tempura, and an endless list of quick street food bites. When it comes to beverages to go with that food, Japanese whisky and sake are some of my favorite anytime drinks (though as I learned shortly after a trip to Tokyo and Kyoto, some of the rarest vintage bourbon can be found in the country as well).

There’s one beverage that is near ubiquitous in Japan and central to the dining out culture that hasn’t gotten the same amount of attention from those in the United States, however: shochu.

Shochu is Japan’s oldest distilled alcoholic beverage. Mentions of the spirit can be traced back to at least 1559, when carpenters working on a shrine carved “the chief shintō priest of the shrine was so stingy that he never once gave us shochu to drink” into the wood.

Today, shochu is the best selling spirit in Japan. There are 43 approved ingredients for making shochu — rice, barley, sweet potatoes, radishes, and sugarcane, to name a few. Like sake, miso, and other Japanese foods and beverages, shochu is largely defined by koji. This mold-inoculated starter (most often cooked rice or soybeans inoculated with Aspergillus oryzae) kicks off the fermentation process and adds flavors unique to each koji. Think of it like how sourdough starter impacts the final flavor of a loaf of bread.

Photo: Nikaido

Shochu’s low alcohol for a spirit (usually under 30 percent) and gentle flavor profile makes it a versatile beverage. In Japan, it is enjoyed neat, in cocktails, on the rocks, or with hot water. One of the most popular ways to consume shochu is in a highball, called a chu-hi, which is a contraction of shochu highball. Bars make a range of chu-hi with soda water, lemon, and fruit juices, and cans are sold in vending machines and convenience stores.

“When you travel to Japan, try going to any type of Japanese restaurant or izakaya,” Yuichi Nikaido, the eighth-generation president of Nikaido Shuzou, says over email. “The majority of them serve shochu, which will give you an idea of just how popular shochu is in Japan. Try finding your favorite bottle from the hundreds of brands available. Then, mark your bottle, come back and enjoy your shochu again, and experience the joy of becoming a regular guest at that izakaya.”

The Nikaido brand is credited with creating the first 100 percent barley koji shochu. The family company began as a sake brewery in the seaside town of Hiji in Oita prefecture in 1866, staying in the family to this day through eight generations. In 1949, production focus shifted from sake to shochu. Then a rice shortage and tough economic times led the company to innovate, and the sixth generation president of the Nikaido company developed a way to make 100 percent barley shochu (mugi). The first bottles came out in 1973. It became a regional favorite in Oita prefecture, then popularity grew across Japan.

The brand is led today by Yuichi Nikaido, and his younger brother Akihiro Nikaido is the production manager for all Nikaido brands after years of studying and working in sake brewing and the production of awamori, a distilled rice spirit native to Okinawa.

Yuichi Nikaido, left, and Akihiro Nikaido, right. Photo: Nikaido

Nikaido’s two core shochu expressions, Oita Mugi Shochu and Kitchom (aged Oita Mugi Shochu), are now available in the US for the first time. For years, shochu has been misunderstood stateside. That was in no small part due to laws in California and New York that required shochu 24 percent alcohol or less to be sold under the name soju — a Korean drink that predates shochu. That changed in October 2023 with California law AB 416.

It’s a step that could help bridge the gap when learning about Japanese dining customs before making a trip to the country.

“Japan is unique compared to Europe, America, and other Asian countries in that we drink shochu, a spirit, throughout a meal, from start to finish,” Yuichi Nikaido says. “Even at parties, it is normal to have several side dishes and snacks to go with the shochu or sake, and then the main dish is served at the end. I think that a distinctive feature of Japanese cuisine is that the menu is designed with the assumption that a spirit like shochu will be consumed; food is actually seasoned to pair well with shochu.”

I caught up with Nikaido to learn more about this distinctly Japanese spirit that any traveler to the country should have a basic understanding of.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Matador Network: Americans are more familiar with highballs now thanks to the proliferation of the whisky highball, particularly when it comes to Japanese whisky. What’s the first thing you want people to understand about the shochu highball?

Yuichi Nikaido: Like whiskey, shochu is one of the most popular spirit categories in Japan. We call a shochu highball a “chu-hi”, which is a combination of the last three letters in “shochu” and the first two letters in “highball.” By using shochu in a highball, you achieve a couple things: First, you’re presenting the spirit in a way in which people, particularly in the United States, are already familiar. Second, shochu is usually somewhere around 24 percent alcohol. So for those who want something that’s a little lower-octane than whiskey but still want to enjoy an adult drink, shochu is a great alternative. Finally, the carbonation adds a refreshing quality, making it appealing in a variety of situations, such as in the summer, at the beach, or while watching sports. It’s nice to drink spirits slowly at a bar, but we also recommend making it into a highball and drinking it in a friendly atmosphere with friends.

What sets a proper shochu highball apart from mixing some shochu with sparkling water?

In Japan, “chu-hi” or “chuhai” (shochu highball) is not just shochu mixed with soda, but also adding various flavors and fruits to find your favorite way to drink it. The best part of shochu highball is that you can drink it in various ways, such as making it sweet, dry, or higher in alcohol. All you need is one bottle of shochu to enjoy with friends.

Shochu has a long history. Where do you start when explaining the spirit to American consumers?

Shochu has a drinking history of about 500 years. When you think of Japan, you may think of sake, but there are just as many brands of shochu as there are of sake, and it has evolved through daily refinement of their techniques. If you can believe it, shochu is more commonly consumed in Japan than sake.

How is shochu typically consumed in Japan?

In Japan, people drink shochu during meals. You can think of it a little like the role wine plays in European countries like Italy and France. One of the attractions of shochu is that it brings out the taste of the food while allowing you to feel the flavor of the ingredients. At izakaya restaurants in Japan, you can actually write your name on the bottle neck chain and keep it on the shelf, and you can drink from it when you return to that restaurant. Shochu is often paired with any food, whether it be Japanese, Western, or Chinese. At home, people also drink their favorite way of shochu during meals. In Japan, shochu is enjoyed by people of all ages, socioeconomic levels, and genders.

Japanese bars deeply influence American bars. Do you see shochu making its way into a wider sphere of influence stateside with the new legislation that allows shochu to be accurately labeled and marketed?

I think it’s only a matter of time before shochu is, if not ubiquitous in American drinking culture, then somewhere close to it. Trends in America show that while people still love their whiskey and vodka, there’s an appetite for something easy to drink when you don’t feel like something high in alcohol, but don’t necessarily want to abstain from drinking entirely either. Bartenders are also starting to take notice of shochu in America. The day may be coming when shochu will be recognized as one of the most popular spirits in American bars. I’m dreaming of that day to come.

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To See How Phoenix Is Adapting to Climate Change, Start With a Pint of Beer

For many travelers, sampling the local brew is a routine part of any trip. Arizona Wilderness Brewing Company, which operates restaurant/taproom locations in Phoenix and Gilbert, Arizona, helps visitors do so in an environmentally friendly manner, with beers that advocate for conservation causes and a mantra that speaks to the heart of the American West. Not only that, but the brewing company is part of a cohort of Phoenix-area businesses helping to make the city more resilient in the face of a changing climate, thinking beyond the golf links and pool resorts to turn Phoenix into a place people come to build a better future for both residents and visitors.

Jonathan Buford founded Arizona Wilderness Brewing Company in 2013 with head brewer Chase Saraiva. His idea for the brewery came, appropriately, while on a backpacking trip in Arizona’s Chiricahua Wilderness. With a beer in hand, Buford proclaimed that he wanted to combine his passions for wilderness and craft beer and support local farmers and purveyors at the same time.

Reframing perceptions of Arizona through craft beer and collaborations

Jon Buford. Photo courtesy Arizona Wilderness Brewing Company

Eco-forward elevator pitches like Buford’s are a dime a dozen nowadays. His, however, has bonafide chops. The brewery’s list of suppliers and partners comprises more than 40 Arizona businesses, from farms to bakeries to a local composter. Nearly every ingredient on the food menu is sourced locally. The meats are raised free of antibiotics and right up the road, and unlike on most pub menus, vegetarians have a lot to choose from.

“[The partnerships have] been organically happening without really trying,” Buford says. “We had a mantra to support local from the beginning, and we set our company up to pay attention to such things.”

Part of the inspiration came from reading Patagonia founder Yvon Choinard’s iconic autobiography, “Let My People Go Surfing,” in 2017. Learning how Patagonia worked to find sustainable materials and ethical factory conditions from which to source its gear and clothes, and in particular, how to see through false promises and hype, forced Buford to take a harder look at how his business operated.

This quickly led to a partnership with Sinagua Malt, founded by Verde River conservation champions Chip Norton and Kim Schonek, the latter of whom oversees efforts at The Nature Conservancy to protect the Verde.

“We were really just supporting farms until they came in and said, ‘We can start you on Sinagua Malt,’” Buford says.

For Buford and his team, the partnership was a no-brainer. The Sinagua Malt project encourages regional farmers to grow low-water-usage barley for local brewers when demand for water from the Verde River is highest, rather than growing summer crops like corn and alfalfa, which use significantly more water. The Nature Conservancy and Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. estimate the project has kept 425 million gallons of water in the river in under a decade. Today, all of the brewery’s beers use Sinagua Malt as a base – and one of its flagships, aptly named This Beer Saves Water, contains exclusively Sinagua Malt.

Another key partner is Recycled City, a fist-in-the-city farm-to-compost program that food service businesses like Arizona Wilderness can implement to make their supply chain circular through composting.

The company’s efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. It recently won the title of “Best Sustainably-Minded Restaurant” in Arizona from Green Living Magazine. It’s beers have won numerous awards, including helping to gain the accolade of best new brewery from RateBeer.com in 2014.

Each Arizona Wilderness beer champions a unique environmental cause

Photo courtesy Arizona Wilderness Brewing Company

Arizona Wilderness brands its product as “wilderness-inspired beers.” Each serves a cause that protects said wilderness. Its Don’t F*ck It Up Blonde advocates for Leave No Trace practices. The Arizona Pinstripes IPA is the result of a partnership with River Outdoors to promote responsible overlanding. Earth to Beer IPA came from the brewery’s participation in a national campaign to make a more eco-friendly packaged beer.

“I’d like to break the mold of Arizona by saying that if you’re not believing, you’re not doing it right, akin to Edward Abbey. Arizona has the ability to be a place where not only do we have 90 designated wildernesses but we can be better stewards to the land.”

Putting all of this in place has become a job in itself, with the entire Arizona Wilderness staff playing a role in pushing the mission forward. Its efforts led Patagonia to reach out to Buford about participating in a cohort of breweries each producing a beer made with local ingredients and Organic Certified Kernza grain. Buford says he will never forget the day he got a call from Fletcher Choinard, Yvon’s son, about working together.

“When you hire the right people, all of a sudden the things you’re saying aren’t as complicated because they can help you understand it,” Buford says.

Working for a better future in Phoenix and around Arizona

Photo: Kevin Ruck/Shutterstock

Seemingly endless suburban sprawl is an epidemic affecting most western US cities, Phoenix being a poster child. Land is plentiful and affordable, leading developers to build outward rather than upward. This has resulted in a population density roughly ⅛ that of New York City. Living here without a car has generally been thought of as undoable, and from an environmental standpoint, it’s casual fodder to condone a major city in the desert.

But Arizona Wilderness is among a growing cohort of local businesses casting doubt on traditional stereotypes about the region. Culdesac Tempe, a 700-unit apartment complex built adjacent to a light rail station not far from the Arizona State University campus, offers no parking for residents and instead provides discounted Uber and Waymo rides, a transit pass, and free e-bikes. Those bikes come from Phoenix-based Lectric e-Bikes, a company on its own mission to change how people move around and in 2023 got more people into electric transport than all major automakers save Tesla.

“I get frustrated by the Arizona cliches, absolutely,” Buford says. “We aren’t a state that’s lacking anything, and that’s something we’re proving daily. We’re not lacking agriculturally, or in diversity. We’re not just the hot, arid, dry desert. Arizona is as precious as anything in the southwest and I think our underrepresentation is because Phoenix was a destination for a cheap, comfortable lifestyle, and so that’s what the ‘brand’ of Arizona became. Scottsdale, you know. Now, I don’t think it’s fair to brand Arizona anything other than a great place to explore, and for Phoenix, I’m hoping more people continue to move in that care more about Planet Earth and less about Planet Living Room.”

Re-approaching how commerce works in a rapidly growing metropolitan area is a task taller than the Chase Tower, and one without a clear finish line. The city is in the midst of a vast expansion of its single-line light rail system, though efficiently serving the entire 15,000-square-mile region may prove to be a pipe dream. Water is a consistent topic of conversation, with groundwater decreasing at the same time that future restrictions on what the state can pull from the Colorado River are all but guaranteed. Phoenix is fortunate to have entrepreneurs like Buford to develop benchmarks and harness the desert’s resources to chart a path forward using what it provides, and conserving what flows in through the Salt and Verde Rivers.

“We tried to rework a lot of things and found out that there’s no money,” Buford says. “It’s a start-and-stop situation. It’s never easy to say, ‘We’re doing great, we’re doing these things perfectly.’ It’s always, ‘We’re working on these things more.’ Composting is a great example, Sinagua is a great example. It’s always about what’s the best thing we can do now, and we’re getting better at finding that method over time.”

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Where to Play, Eat, and Stay in Greenville, South Carolina

There’s something wonderful about a city that has the cultural cachet of a metropolis but the charm of a small town. Greenville, South Carolina, has both — plus a whole lot of natural beauty.

The largest city in South Carolina’s Upstate region, Greenville has emerged as a destination for travelers seeking a balance between urban amenities and outdoor adventures. The city is blessed with easy access to hiking trails, scenic parks, and serene waters. But you don’t have to head far outside of city limits to enjoy nature — just look at the suspended pedestrian bridge and cascading waterfall right in the middle of downtown. On nearby Main Street, tree-lined sidewalks lead to award-winning restaurants and quaint cafes.

From historic architecture to city landmarks, Greenville manages to provide cultural experiences typically found in larger urban centers without sacrificing intimacy and community spirit. Best of all: It’s an extremely walkable city, making it easy to access everything that Greenville has to offer without needing to worry about a car.

Things to do in Greenville

Falls Park on the Reedy

Photo: Robin Thomas

Located on the banks of the Reedy River in downtown Greenville, this 32-acre park is a testament to the city’s commitment to natural preservation. The park’s history dates back centuries, when the Reedy River’s impressive waterfall powered Greenville’s early mills, laying the foundation for its industrial growth. Today, visitors can stroll across the iconic Liberty Bridge, a curved pedestrian walkway spanning 345 feet, for views of Reedy River Falls and Falls Park.

For nature lovers, the park is home to an array of wildlife, so it’s not uncommon to see ducks, blue herons, geese, and other wildlife. There are also a number of restaurants in and around the park where you can grab a bite, as well as events like outdoor concerts to keep an eye out for.

Falls Park on the Reedy: 601 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601

Flying Rabbit Adventures

Photo: Robin Thomas

Flying Rabbit Adventures is an outdoor aerial park that sits on approximately five acres of wooded land just outside of downtown Greenville. The park contains an assortment of obstacle courses and zip-lines for all ages. There are three stories of different courses, which include rope walks, climbing, moving platforms, and zip-lines that wind between the trees. Rest assured that you don’t have to be an athlete to enjoy Flying Rabbit Adventures — there are beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, making it a particularly great choice for a family outing.

Flying Rabbit Adventures: 821 Laurens Rd, Greenville, SC 29607

Greenville Breakfast Tour

Photo: Robin Thomas

I’ve done a number of food tours during my travels, but this breakfast tour hosted by Greenville History and Culinary Tours was one of my favorite yet. My group got to feast on treats at restaurants around Greenville — including breakfast tacos at Papi’s Tacos, mimosa fried chicken sandwiches at Biscuit Head, and a delicious acai bowl at Southern Pressed Juicery — while also learning about the history of the city. Better yet, the tour came with transfers to each spot, which is a boon for summer visits when the temperatures are high.

John, the owner of the company and our tour guide, let us know that his was the first tour company in Greenville and that he’s been guiding visitors for 20-plus years. He runs a variety of tours for both foodies and history buffs, so be sure to check out what’s on offer.

Group Therapy Pub & Playground

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Group Therapy is a fun and unique pub that offers games and activities along with the typical bar libations. Located right in the heart of downtown Greenville, Group Therapy has a full bar featuring specialty cocktails, a food menu, and a self-serve beer tap wall. What makes this venue stand out from other bars are its games and activities — you can play a round of mini golf, try your hand at ax-throwing or duckpin bowling, give ice curling a go, and more. Group Therapy also hosts karaoke happening on certain nights, so practice your solo or find someone to belt out a duet with. The pub’s fun, welcoming atmosphere is perfect for a date night, friends looking to unwind, or groups celebrating special occasions.

Group Therapy Pub & Playground: 320 Falls St Suite G, Greenville, SC 29601

Where to eat and drink in Greenville

CAMP Modern American Eatery

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CAMP serves comfort dishes with an upscale twist. The space itself is nothing short of beautiful, with indoor, outdoor, and chefs-table seating that’s complemented by clean and elegant decor. The menu is a testament to culinary creativity, featuring a diverse array of dishes that highlight locally sourced ingredients, bold flavors, and exquisite presentation. Some of the menu highlights include a lobster linguine, pork and shrimp dumplings, pickled vegetables, and a half chicken. CAMP also has cocktails and an extensive wine list, so you can have something refreshing in your glass during your meal. I highly recommend getting an early reservation at the chef’s table to watch the magic happen up close.

CAMP Modern American Eatery: 2 E Broad St, Greenville, SC 29601

Juniper

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If you enjoy good food and drinks on a rooftop with views of the city, Juniper is the place for you. Located on top of the AC Hotel, Juniper is a rooftop bar and restaurant whose decor mimics a lush garden with floral decorations and bright colors. The rooftop has become a hotspot for both locals and visitors due to its central location and breathtaking views. On some evenings, the restaurant also has live entertainment to enjoy during your meal. Some items you might see at dinner include rock shrimp tempura, blue crab agnolotti, and a rosemary focaccia. If you stop in during brunch, be sure to order the burrata avocado toast or the crab cake Benedict.

Juniper: 315 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601

Le Petit Croissant

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Starting the morning with the perfect cup of coffee and breakfast is essential, and Le Petit Croissant bakery is exactly the place for that. It makes croissants, macarons, and other baked goods in-house every day. The house-made croissants are large and buttery, and the macarons come in an assortment of flavors such as mango, lavender, coca-cola, and pink lemonade. Le Petit Croissant also hosts monthly classes, such as macaron- and pizza-making classes, all of which leave you with goods to take home. Note that these classes tend to book up weeks in advance, so be sure to sign up early.

Le Petit Croissant: 640 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601

Society Sandwich Bar

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Society is a sandwich shop and bar off Main Street that’s perfect for anyone who is looking for a no-frills meal with great service. The name says it all: Society is known for its delicious and unique sandwich menu. Options include caprese sandwiches with house-made pesto, slow-braised beef sandwiches, smash burgers, and a fried bologna option. If you aren’t big on sandwiches, Society also has fresh salads, ramen, and other tasty delights. Another thing to love about this place is that, at night, you can head upstairs for a more social club vibe with good music and maybe some dancing.

Society Sandwich Bar: 18 E Coffee St, Greenville, SC 29601

Tupelo Honey

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There’s no way you can come to the South and not indulge in some good-old Southern comfort cooking. Tupelo Honey brings your favorite Southern cooking and traditions right to the table with farm-to-table dishes that will leave your tastebuds craving more. Started in Asheville in 2002, the restaurant prides itself on its from-scratch dishes and responsibly sourced ingredients. Some of the menu highlights include honey-dusted fried chicken, collard greens, fried green tomatoes, gumbo, smothered chicken and biscuits, and brown butter pecan pie. This is a very popular spot, especially on weekends, so making a reservation is a must.

Tupelo Honey: 1 N Main St, Ste T, Greenville, SC 29601

Where to stay in Greenville

AC Marriott Greenville

Photo: Robin Thomas

The AC Marriott is the perfect place to stay during your trip to Greenville for many reasons, but the main one is its Main Street location — it’s quite literally situated in the center of downtown, with everything you need being only a few blocks away in each direction. The decor is sleek and modern, and the hotel features artwork from Greenville artists. The rooms are spacious and homey, with amenities to cover all of your needs.

Though the hotel is surrounded on all sides by restaurants, it also offers its own on-site dining options, including Paloma, a tapas-style restaurant and bar; Juniper, a rooftop restaurant; and The Press Room, a secret speakeasy that changes its theme every few months. If comfort, access, and Southern hospitality are important to you, this is the hotel you want to stay at.

AC Marriott Greenville: 315 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601

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