Matador Network's Blog, page 149

Uber Boat Is the Most Scenic Way to Get to This London Airport

There are six major airports in London, and the most practical of them all is undeniably London City Airport. Located just 8.5 miles from Trafalgar Square, the very heart of the English capital, it’s the most central of all London airports.

There are multiple traditional ways to get between London’s city center and London City Airport: by taxi or ride share, by a painful string of city bus connections, or by a combination of subway and light rail trains. But while all of these are solid and reliable options, there’s one way to travel to and from London City Airport that’s a lot more fun and scenic than the rest: by boat.

Uber Boat by Thames Clippers sails on the River Thames throughout the city, including into East London where London City Airport City is located. The Uber Boats sail daily from early morning until late.

During the boat ride between London’s city center and the airport, travelers get to see the city’s most famous landmarks from a unique vantage point, including Big Ben, The London Eye, and The Shard, among others.

Photo: British Airways

Britain’s flagship carrier, British Airways, is currently partnering with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers to offer travelers who fly with BA Cityflyer a 25 percent discount on Uber Boat tickets, as well as a complimentary hot drink to be enjoyed during the sailing. To receive the discount, British Airways customers need to book online in advance and fly on the same day as their boat ride. As for the free hot drink, all they need to do is to show their boarding pass in the onboard café.

“Not only is flying from London City a convenient and quick way to travel, but it allows our customers to really embrace our brilliant city. With views of the Canary Wharf skyline and the River Thames, it’s an airport like no other and working with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers helps us to extend the London experience beyond the airport,” said Tom Stoddart, CEO of BA Cityflyer, in a press release.

Uber Boat by Thames Clippers serves a total of 24 piers on the river, allowing travelers to hop in at multiple spots in the city. The boat routes that travelers need to consider for their ride to and from the airport are RB1 (purple) and RB6 (yellow) on the map below.

Uber Boat Thames Clipper route map. Photo: Uber Boats by Thames Clippers

The pier that corresponds to the London City Airport is Royal Warf Pier. From there, travelers who need to get to the airport can jump on the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) for just one stop to reach the London City Airport DLR Station. Alternatively, they can also take a 30-minute walk to get there.

The ride from the westernmost pier, Putney, to Royal Warf Pier is just a little over 90 minutes. From Embankment, the most central pier in the city, it takes just 60 minutes. Consult the weekday and the weekend schedules to plan your trip to and from the London City Airport.

For those not benefiting from the British Airways discount, the cost of a one-way ticket to sail with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers between the West Zone and the East zone is $22.20 (£17.30); sailing between the Central Zone and the East Zone is $13.15 (£10.25). Round-trip tickets are also available. You can book your ride with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers in advance online.

While London City Airport does not operate flight beyond Europe, it serves 30 destinations via 10 airlines.

More like thisCultureYou've Been Referring to Big Ben Wrong (and Other Things You Need to Know Before Visiting)

A New Turkish Airlines Flight From Denver to Istanbul Directly Connects the Two Cities for the First Time

Denver International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world, has a new longest flight.

On June 11, Turkish Airlines took its inaugural nonstop flight between Denver and Istanbul International Airport — also one of the top 10 busiest airports in the world. It’s the first connection between the two cities, and will operate three days a week (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays) until July 9, when a fourth flight on Sundays will be added.

At a Denver event celebrating the new route, Ahmet Bolat,
Turkish Airlines chairman of the board of directors and the executive committee, marveled at the job Turkish Airlines has done to transport travelers between Türkiye and the United States — a big change from when he was a University of Michigan student in 1986.

Denver is the 14th destination in the US for Türkiye’s premier airline, which serves more destinations than any other airline in the world. Turkish Airlines joins the 25 other airlines flying into DIA, and will run the 6,130-mile flights (some 400 miles longer than DIA’s second longest direct flight to Tokyo) on 316-seat Airbus A350-900s. Travelers from Denver will depart at 7:35 PM and arrive in Istanbul the next day at 4:15 PM, with return flights departing Istanbul at 1:55 PM and arriving in Denver at 5:40 PM.

“I was on that [inaugural] flight,” Philip Washington, DIA’s CEO, said at the event. “It felt much less than 13 hours because of the hospitality of the crew and of [the Turkish Airlines] team here as well. I feel refreshed.”

Turkish Airlines regularly makes the list of top airlines by customer satisfaction. That’s in large part due to an impressive Flying Chefs culinary program that subverts airplane food jokes and a business class that is well worth the upgrade.

Washington added that this is part of the plan to increase global connections that he developed three years ago. His tenure has seen the airport gain seven new international destinations and grow flights from 12 countries to 17. DIA’s roster of nonstop international flights now sits at 31 destinations in 17 countries.

Demand for flights between Denver and Istanbul have increased by 50 percent since 2019, according to a press release from the airport. It’s expected to be a popular flight, and a profitable one. Estimates put the annual economic impact for Colorado at $54 million, and it’s expected to add about 350 new jobs in the state.

Few cities can match the history, culture, and vibrant atmosphere of Istanbul, the most populated city in Europe and the historic gateway between Europe and Asia. The flight opens the door to the city and will also be an important connection through the hub to Africa, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe. Travelers coming the other way instantly have better access to not only the charms of Denver’s proximity to the outdoors, famous breweries, and increasingly hyped restaurant scene, but also to the nearby world-class Colorado ski towns like Vail, Aspen, and Breckenridge. Washington said expanded rental car facilities at the airport will make it easier to get to the rest of Colorado.

As a Denver resident always looking for a new adventure, my wife and I booked a flight for a fall family trip soon after the announcement. I know we’re not the only ones excited about the new route.

More like thisTravelHave Points? This Airline Actually Makes Upgrading to Business Class Worth It

This Hotel Delivers Culinary Excellence in the Heart of Austin, Texas

East and North Austin are well-known hotspots for food lovers, but one hotel is reestablishing the city’s downtown as a culinary destination: Thompson Austin. The hotel offers a variety of dining options, from Diner Bar, a dinner spot with a Southern menu crafted by two-time James Beard Award-winning chef Mashama Bailey, to the newly opened rooftop cantina, Arriba Abajo, which serves Mexican-inspired fare with a scenic view of the city.

But Thompson Austin excels at more than just its culinary offerings. An Austin resident, I recently staycationed in one of the hotel’s Upper Stories suites, a luxurious yet homey oasis amid the hustle and bustle of the city center. Whether you’re passing through town or planning to stay for a while, that kind of comfort and convenience is hard to beat in downtown Austin.

Livable suites for families and longer stays

Photo: Chase Daniels

Opened in January 2022, Thompson Austin has 229 rooms, 14 suites, and 17 Upper Stories suites, along with a 6,700 square-foot fitness center. There are rooms to suit every type of traveler, but the Upper Stories rooms were a standout. Located on the 16th floor, these fully livable suites come equipped with smart TVs, a living room, and a walk-in shower with rainfall showerheads, making it perfect for families, extended stays, or couples on a romantic getaway.

To my surprise, the Upper Stories suites also come with fully functional kitchens. In my one-bedroom suite, I found everything I needed to cook a full meal: a stove, cooking utensils, a full-size fridge, and a mini dishwasher. The kitchen connects to an open-concept living room with floor-to-ceiling windows, offering cityscape views. The suite made me feel as at home in the city as I do in my actual home in Austin. This was especially true at night — cloud-like pillows, lush bedding, and a plush rug fostered coziness in the bedroom, allowing me to fall asleep within minutes of hitting the bed.

A hotel designed for great meals

Photo: Jasmin Porter

As someone who dines out frequently, I was amazed by the number of on-site restaurants at Thompson Austin, and the amount of variety they collectively offered. The hotel has a total of four restaurants and bars. On the evening my partner and I arrived, we checked in at Diner Bar, the hotel’s Southern seafood restaurant helmed by the esteemed chef Mashama Bailey.

We started the night with house-made cocktails: Last Flowers (made with gin, creme de violet, lemon, and egg whites) and Big Gold Mine (a blended scotch cocktail with coconut milk, orgeat, lime, and yellow chartreuse). Then came the appetizers: Glacier Bay, Island Pearl, and Village Bay oysters; Alaskan crab with green goddess sauce; and buttery lobster sliders.

Photo: Thompson Austin

A New York strip steak and swordfish frites were plattered up as main courses, both seared to perfection and accompanied with potato wedges topped with sour cream, as well as sharp cheddar mac and cheese. We finished the night with a toasted pistachio affogato and Thompson’s quintessential dessert: a flourless chocolate cake with peanut butter mousse, spiced peanuts, and peanut butter ice cream. A creation of Chef Bailey’s known as the Benne Bar, the indulgent treat is reminiscent of Reese’s peanut butter cups — but in cake form.

The following day, I didn’t have the chance to get breakfast at Grey Market, located on the hotel’s first floor, or Tommie, Thompson Austin’s neighboring sister hotel, which caters to spirited and adventurous travelers. But both offer a relaxed environment to grab classic bites like coffee, granola bowls, pancakes, and guacamole toast.

A new rooftop bar in Austin

Photo: Thompson Austin

Thompson Austin’s newly debuted rooftop cantina, Arriba Abajo, opened last month. Named after one of Mexico’s celebratory cheers, Arriba Abajo is perched on the fourth floor and outfitted in lush foliage, fringe lampshades, and rattan furniture, making guests feel like they’ve been transported to Tulum. What impressed me was the restaurant’s layout. From the elevator, I was greeted by the open-air patio, which features views of the pool, the outdoor bar, and the skyline.

Inspired by Mexico’s rich and flavor-filled cuisine, Arriba Abajo’s menu includes dishes like shrimp ceviche, heirloom corn chips, chicken milanesa tortas, and carnitas tacos, paying homage to the flavors found in Oaxaca, Yucatán, and the regions in between. My personal favorites were the chorizo-infused queso and the al pastor tacos enveloped in house-made tortillas. The drink menu didn’t miss either, offering mango margaritas, micheladas, wines, and a selection of draft beers, some of which are brewed in Austin.

Photo: Thompson Austin

After a full and satisfying meal, I checked out of the hotel later that afternoon. While I may live in the city, Thompson Austin is a place I’d revisit. If you’re an out-of-towner, stay for a night or two, and if you live in Austin, the food and drinks are reason enough to visit. Then again, you might as well treat yourself to a full-on staycation.

Book Now

More like thisFood + DrinkWhy Austin Is One of the Best Cities for Food in Texas

I Tried Nearly Every Cruise Ship Restaurant on ‘The Greatest Foodie Destination at Sea’

Big-ship cruises, with their thousands of passengers, double-digit deck plans, and mazes of corridors, aren’t for everyone. But with all that space comes a whole lot of dining options. I spent the last week of May onboard the brand new Princess Cruises ship the Sun Princess, a 21-deck cruise ship that can accommodate 4,300 guests and is billed as “The Greatest Foodie Destination at Sea.” During my seven-day Mediterranean sailing, I tried every specialty restaurant on the ship but one, as well as some of the more casual food venues. Here is my ranking of the six (out of seven) specialty restaurants I tried, my reviews of the other dining venues, and everything you need to know before you sit down for a meal at any of them.

Specialty restaurants on the Sun Princess

1. The Butcher’s Block by Dario

Meat presentation at The Butcher's Block by Dario. Photos: Jesse AdamsWine, water, and crudites to start the meal at The Butcher's Block by Dario. Photos: Jesse AdamsBeef tartare and steak served at The Butcher's Block by Dario. Photos: Jesse AdamsVegetarian offerings at The Butcher's Block by Dario. Photos: Jesse AdamsEggs with tomato sauce, a dish that is part of the vegetarian menu at The Butcher's Block by Dario (left). Grappa to end the copious meal (right). Photos: Jesse Adams

Dario Cecchini, an Italian butcher from Tuscany often referred to as the world’s most famous butcher — especially since an entire episode of Netflix’ s Chef Table was dedicated to his work in 2019 — partnered with Princess Cruises to open The Butcher’s Block by Dario on the Sun Princess. Despite the fact that The Butcher’s Block by Dario is dedicated to all things beef, it is the best restaurant for vegetarians on board the Sun Princess. I have been a vegetarian for nearly two decades, but my partner is a meat eater and it was a real pleasure for both of us to eat delicious, fresh food that we love without anyone having to make any compromise. While my partner enjoyed the fixed menu that consisted of seemingly endless servings of tender and flavorful beef tartar, rump roast carpaccio, ribeye and T-bone steaks, I dined on amazing crostone with vegetable toppings, tomato stew, chickpea tart, and more. The food and the wine are simple, no frills, yet delicious, much like the venue’s atmosphere, which is relaxed and fun. There’s only one choice for dessert: an olive-oil coffee cake and a glass of strong grappa that will set you right after this abundant food experience.

Menu: Here

Price: $45 per person with meat, and $35 per person for the vegetarian/vegan menu.

Dress code: Casual

2. Love by Britto

Love-focused menu at Love by Britto. Photos: Jesse AdamsOyster and Love by Britto Prosecco to start the meal. Photos: Jesse AdamsFloor-to-ceiling windows at the aft of the Sun princess (left). A beautifully presented dessert at Love by Britto (right). Photos: Jesse AdamsThe food and the drinks at Love by Britto are all centered around love. Photos: Jesse AdamsPhotos: Jesse Adams

Love by Britto is a collaboration between world-famous Brazilian artist Romero Britto and Princess Cruises to offer guests a dining experience that’s centered around the theme of love. Located at the very aft of the ship on deck 17, this restaurant is the perfect setting for a romantic meal: It feels secluded and private, and offers the best sea views found anywhere on the Sun Princess thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows all around. The decor, including the menu, the dinnerware, and the cutlery, bear a multitude of hearts. The menu is fixed and includes oysters, tuna tartare, beef tenderloin, and more, but delicious accommodations are easily made for vegetarians. The sommelier is always on hand for a flute of Prosecco flavored with fresh strawberries, a glass of rosé, or a top-up of Argentinian malbec, but there’s also a large variety of amorously named cocktails if that’s what you prefer. The granita of pink Champagne and rose petals and the chocolate lava cake with fresh berries and raspberry cream are the highlights of this fantastic dining experience.

Menu: Here

Price: $79 per person

Dress code: Dressing up is recommended

3. Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria

Photos: Jesse AdamsPhotos: Jesse AdamsPhotos: Jesse AdamsDecaf espresso and hazelnut chocolate tart for dessert at Sabatini's. Photos: Jesse Adams

Sabatini’s is a traditional upscale Italian restaurant found on several Princess ships. The atmosphere is romantic and chic, with dim lights, white tablecloths, and a refined decor that will transport you straight to Tuscany. The menu, which includes a variety of vegetarian dishes, lists Italian staples such as arancini, risotto, pasta dishes, tiramisù, and more. Come hungry and choose one item among the soup and salad offerings (zuppe e insalata), one antipasto, one first entree (primi platti), one second entree (secondi platti), and a dessert. The wine list is long and the staff is more than happy to help you make a selection that will pair well with your choices. I opted for a hearty Tuscan soup called Robollita, followed by a dish of creamy burrata and fresh olives and tomatoes, and an entree of primavera pasta before ending the meal with a chocolate hazelnut tart and a decaf espresso. I was very glad I passed on the second entree to keep room for dessert — the servings are very generous. My partner went for the full four courses before his tiramisù and the wobble back to our stateroom after dinner was very slow.

Menu: Here

Price: $45 per person

Dress code: Elegant clothing is recommended

4. Crown Grill

Inside the Crown Grill. Photo: James Morgan, Getty Images for Princess CruisesPhotos: Jesse AdamsPhotos: Jesse Adams

While Crown Grill is a steak and seafood restaurant, the chef is relatively accommodating to vegetarians accompanying meat eaters. Once again, come hungry because the servings are far from stingy. I had the black and blue onion soup (made with beef broth, unfortunately), and a lovely made-just-for-me grilled eggplant and tomato concoction before tucking into the jaw-dropping crème brulée cheesecake. My partner started with the Caesar salad, followed by a gigantic and tender 20-ounce porterhouse accompanied by asparagus, and a traditional baked Alaska to finish. The staff served a selection of three salts from around the world (Hawaiian black salt, smoked applewood salt from Japan, and Himalayan pink salt) to enhance his entree, which made for a new culinary experience and a delectable meal. The Crown Grill kitchen is open to the dining room so you can observe your copious dishes being prepared with care by the excellent team at this chic dining venue. The waiting staff at Crown Grill is perhaps the most attentive and friendly of all the restaurants I tried on board.

Menu: Here

Price: $39 per person

Dress code: Smart casual

5. Makoto Ocean

Photos: Jesse AdamsPhotos: Jesse AdamsPhotos: Jesse AdamsPhotos: Jesse AdamsPhotos: Jesse AdamsPhotos: Sun Princess

Makoto Ocean is a collaboration between famed chef Makoto Okuwa and Princess Cruises to bring the best of Edomae-style sushi to Sun Princess passengers. The excellent Omakase menu consists of nine generous courses, including edamame; miso soup; tuna tartare; a variety of nigiri, sushi, and temaki; and mochi ice cream — all of which are some of the freshest and most flavorful dishes my partner ever had. While the menu is focused on raw fish, as it should, vegetarians are still able to find suitable items from the menu, including charred edamame and garden, avocado, and cucumber rolls. The fine food, however, is hard to enjoy considering the restaurant’s regrettable location. While the views from the sphere are particularly beautiful, Makoto Ocean is entirely open to the piazza, which, unfortunately, is the heart of the ship and the loudest and busiest part of the Sun Princess. We dined at Makoto Ocean on the night of the Captain’s Welcome Aboard speech and could barely hold a conversation for all the noise around us. Pick an early time for your dinner, or choose a quiet night if you can.

Price: $45 per person for the fixed Omakase menu. The rest of the menu is a la carte.

Dress code: Dressing up is recommended

6. Umai Teppanyaki/Hot Pot

Photos: Jesse AdamsPhotos: Jesse AdamsPhotos: Jesse AdamsPhotos: Jesse AdamsPhotos: Jesse Adams

Umai is primarily focused on two things: teppanyaki (where the chef cooks and entertains behind a griddle surrounded by a handful of guests) and hot pot. In order to experience the famous theatricality of it for the first time, I opted for the teppanyaki experience, which provided not only an abundance of food, but also great options for my vegetarian diet. With fried rice, tofu with udon noodles, and mochi ice cream, there was more than enough tasty food for me to be satisfied. That said, despite being fun, the concept lacks originality and creativity. Hearing the chef at the next metal griddle making the exact same jokes as the chef in our section just 30 seconds later was a bit of a disappointment.

Menu: Here

Price: $45 per person

Dress code: Casual
 

Other food venues on board the Sun Princess

Alfredo’s Pizzeria

Antipasto platter and signature Princess Pizza. Photos: Jesse AdamsEnjoying a Roma cocktail and a cannoli. Photos: Jesse AdamsPhotos: Jesse Adams

Alfredo’s Pizzeria is a bright and simple-yet-stylish venue with a mouth-watering menu of Italian specialties, including antipasti and freshly made pizzas and calzones. The pizzas and calzones are made in the open pizza station so you can see them cooking. The pizza menu has enough variety to suit every taste and diet, including those opting for a meat-free meal. During our lunch at Alfredo’s Pizzeria, I opted for a vegetarian pizza bianca, which was very cheesy but flavorful, accompanied by a delicious and refreshing Roma cocktail (gin, elderflower, limoncello, and fresh raspberries). My other half ordered an antipasto platter followed by the signature Princess Pizza with Parma ham. We both ended the meal with an excellent chocolate and pistachio cannolo.

Price: $14.99 for a starter, a pizza or calzone, and a dessert.

Dress code: Casual

Horizons Dining Room

Waffles and eggs Benedict for breakfast in the Horizons Dining Room. Photos: Jesse AdamsPhoto: Jesse AdamsTexas French toasts and pastries for breakfast in the Horizons Dining Room. Photos: Jesse AdamsPastries, butter, and jams are always on the table for breakfast in the Horizons Dining Room. Photos: Jesse Adams

The Horizons Dining Room is the main breakfast, lunch, and dining venue for all Sun Princess passengers. Instead of feeling like a gigantic and noisy canteen like cruise ship dining rooms often do, this one has a cozy and private atmosphere — even though it’s spread over three floors. This small-restaurant vibe is mostly due to the smart partition of the space into smaller areas, but also to the choice of wooden Mid-Century-inspired furniture and refined-yet-simple light fixtures. While the extensive breakfast menu remains the same every day with offerings of waffles, eggs, bacon, pancakes and pastries galore, the dining menu changes to offer guests a variety of dishes that match the ship’s location.

Price: Included

Dress code: Anything you like, from casual to formal, it’s up to you

Americana Diner

Deep-fried cauliflower and tater tots, root beer float. Photos: Jesse AdamsStrawberry milkshake, nachos. Photos: Jesse AdamsFish and chips, BBQ ribs. Photos: Jesse Adams

The Americana Diner is located within the main dining room on deck eight, with the same same beautiful and intimate decor you’ll find in the Horizons Dining Room. What makes the Americana Diner unique on the Sun Princess is its menu of no-frills, rich, and copious diner specialties, including milk shakes, soda floats, saucy ribs, nachos, fish and chips, omelettes, etc. My partner and I went twice for late lunches and both times we thoroughly indulged in the excellent food served and came out incredibly full and satisfied. The Americana Diner is open for brunch, from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM, and for dinner from 6:00 PM to 10 PM, so you can have breakfast for supper.

Price: Included

Dress code: Casual

The Eatery

Bakery and Pastry station at the Eatery. Photos: Jesse AdamsAsian-inspired meal and breakfast from the Eatery. Photos: Jesse Adams

The Eatery is the buffet section of the Sun Princess. It offers a huge selection of food spread over several stations, including an Asian station where you’ll find the likes of spring rolls and ramen noodles, a carving station for meats, a salad bar, an Italian bar, a dessert station, and more. The Eatery is open throughout the day from 6 AM to 10 PM. It’s where we ate upon embarking the ship, as well as once more for a quick breakfast, but because it gets very crowded, we mostly stayed away from it after that, even though there’s plenty of good food to be had.

Price: Included

Dress code: Casual

The International Café

Photo: Jesse Adams

The International Café is a great spot for a quick breakfast or a treat. There’s a large selection of cake slices, cookies, muffins, and doughnuts, as well as savory items such as quiches, bagels, and sandwiches. But the best part is the specialty coffees on offer. I tried the tiramisù cappuccino and the Nutella cappuccino, and both were as flavorful and indulgent as expected. I wish I had the time to try the pink latte (made with dragon fruit) and the mocha caramel Latte, but there’s only so much I can ingest in the space of seven days. Note that the International Café is located around the Piazza on deck nine and can get quite busy and loud, with very few seats available. Taking your order to go and finding a more quiet space is a good idea if you want a more tranquil experience.

Price: A la carte

Dress code: Casual

Gelateria

Affogato and fior di latte gelato. Photo: Jesse Adams

For the Gelateria, the people at Princess Cruises went all out and sent some of their crew members to be traditionally trained in Italy so that they could produce authentic gelato for their guests. And it shows. The Gelateria is the best place for ice cream on the ship, and the best spot for affogato if, like me, you want coffee with every meal and snack. The servings are generous and, surprisingly, the venue was rarely busy.

Price: A la carte

Dress code: Casual

Coffee and Cones

The Leaning Tower Premium Dessert, and blue granita from Coffee and Cones. Photo: Jesse Adams

Coffee and Cones is an outdoor venue close to the main pools where, as the name indicates, you’ll find a small selection of coffees, granitas, vanilla soft-serve ice cream, and what Princess Cruises call premium desserts. I tried a couple of granitas (blue raspberry and strawberry) and both were deliciously sweet and refreshing, but my real reason for visiting Coffee and Cones was to try out one of the gigantic premium desserts. The premium desserts are concoctions of ice cream mixed with sweet sauces (chocolate, caramel, and the like), candy toppings, cookies, and more. I tried the beautifully presented leaning tower premium dessert, which was immense, heavy, and overflowing with goodies, but not as sweet and certainly not as flavorful as expected.

Price: A la carte. Premium dessert are $12, granitas are $8, soft serve vanilla ice cream is $4, and the coffee selection ranges from $2.50 to $4.

Dress code: Casual

Lido

Hot dog and fries from Lido on board the Sun Princess. Photos: Jesse AdamsBurger and tacos from Lido on board the Sun Princess. Photo: Jesse Adams

Lido consists of five venues that are located near each other by the main pools on deck 17. The five venues consist of Lido Bar for drinks only; Lido Greens for salads; Lido Grill for hot dogs, burgers, and fries; Lido Tacos for tacos and burritos; and Lido Slice for pizzas. My partner tried the Lido Grill for a hot dog with fries, while I tried Lido Tacos where there are vegetarian options. At both venues the service was extremely fast, the servings were large, and the food lovely.

Price: Included

Dress code: Casual

More like thisTravelHow Many Drinks You'll Need to Have Per Day to Make a Cruise Drinks Package Worth It, According to a Travel Agent

My Yoga Teacher Training Happened 63 Miles North of the Arctic Circle. Here’s How It Changed Me.

I admit, I was initially a bit apprehensive about the concept of being totally isolated for eight days in the Arctic wilderness, 63 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Would I panic without reliable cell phone connectivity or Wi-Fi, far away from my busy life in bustling Los Angeles and the security of my loved ones? In April, I put these anxieties to the test. Instead of traveling somewhere more “traditionally” associated with a yoga certification like India or Bali, I felt called to embark on a more adventurous (albeit remote) trip to learn amongst the wild and inspiring beauty of Northern Alaska.

The “SHEWild” women-only 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training, led by Mollie Busby of the Arctic Hive, took place in the tiny but mighty village of Wiseman, Alaska, the “immersive” portion of my hybrid training experience to earn yoga teacher certification. It’s no coincidence how powerful and transformative the journey felt in the heart of Northern Alaska. The retreat forever changed my yoga practice and, I’m learning after the experience, has had the same positive experience in other aspects of my life.

A hybrid training experience opens opportunities from afar

The author leading class. Photo: Mollie Busby

It’s important to recognize there was no such thing as a “hybrid” yoga teacher training before the COVID-19 pandemic expanded online learning and made virtual certifications a possibility. Yoga Alliance, the largest nonprofit association representing the yoga community and arguably the most trusted regulator of Yoga Teacher Training certification regulation, didn’t allow online or hybrid training or certification pre-covid.

The pandemic rocked everyone’s world, but one thing that came out of such a challenging situation was expanded opportunities to learn and grow online, virtually, and build digital communities as opposed to solely being able to earn degrees and certifications in person. As academic universities worldwide loosened their criteria to allow students to earn their degrees digitally, so did the Yoga Alliance.

For me, that meant a chance to build a community and earn my certification alongside seven other women ranging in geographic location from Alaska to Maryland, San Diego, Wisconsin, and, in theory, anywhere in between.

For my yoga teacher training experience, our education was segmented into three parts.

Part one of our training included a live online instruction series, where we logged onto Zoom for two weekend-long sessions spanning from roughly 4 PM to 7 PM Pacific Time on Friday and 6:30 AM to 2 PM Pacific Time on Saturday and Sunday. We also had four weekday virtual meetings of live online instruction in between these weekend sessions. On the final Zoom session, we’d be teaching a 45-minute class to our fellow trainees — a task that initially seemed daunting but, like the trip to Alaska, became an incredibly positive and transformative experience for our cohort.

Part two of the training meant keeping up with pre-recorded, self-paced video content produced exclusively for the “SHEWild” cohort. We’d work through this “homework” material progressively on our own time.

But the part of the experience that called to me most was part three: an immersion trip to Mollie Busby and her husband Sean’s property, Arctic Hive, in Wiseman, Alaska.

The Arctic Hive cultivates a magical sense of community in the backcountry

The Northern Lights made frequent apperances. Photo: Molly O’Brien

This retreat is located 270 miles from the nearest town (seven hours from the nearest grocery store) — among the breathtaking scenery of the arctic Brooks Range. It’s known as the northernmost yoga school in America.

Arctic Hive is located between two well-known protected wilderness areas of the Brooks Range (Gates of the Arctic National Park and Arctic National Wildlife Refuge), meaning pure and unfiltered wilderness. Spending time here meant experiencing a raw, introspective journey that’s a bit more far-flung — and far less humid than some other teacher training trips I had heard of.

At Arctic Hive, travelers are separated from the petty problems of the outside world and have the space to become more aware of what’s really important — feeling and fostering a genuine connection between two souls (whether it’s human to human or animal to human), loving and kindness, and respect for our bodies (they’re the only ones we get).

Dinner is served. Photo: Molly O’Brien

It’s a total physical and neurological reset for those who take the time to invest in the experience. We nourished ourselves with healthy food eaten in a community setting and learned away from the anxieties that can come with access to modern technology.

But actually getting to the Arctic hive isn’t an easy feat. The journey to this remarkable destination requires quite a physical and financial investment. Travelers fly to Fairbanks where they’ll meet up with the cohort of fellow trainees for an 8-10 hour drive along the daunting Dalton Highway up to the 12-person village of Wiseman, a century-old former mining town, which boomed in the 1920s but today serves mostly as a seasonal destination for viewing the aurora borealis and as a home base for outdoor recreation. From Wiseman, it’s a short one-mile hike upslope to the property, which labels itself “boutique, off-grid accommodations” and is settled into the bush on a hill overlooking the town.

Life at The Hive

The author fetching water before getting soaked. Photo: Mollie Busby

The cost of my immersion trip and training, totaling $4,950, included transportation to and from Fairbanks, lodging, my yoga teacher training manual, and three home-cooked square meals a day on-site.

Once we arrived at Arctic Hive, we cozied into our assigned cabins — three off-grid Nordic-style buildings perched at the top of the hill overlooking the property, each boasting stunning mountain views.

The big windows showcase the snowy peaks during the day and the colors of the aurora borealis on a clear night. There was ample heating via Swedish Nordic oil stoves, solar and battery-powered lighting, a Berkey water filter system for fresh drinking water (sourced by Arctic Hive), and old-fashioned kerosene lamps. Power on-site is soured via solar, with a backup generator. All cooking needs are met by propane).

But the real kicker (and something we knew going into this trip — but which hadn’t set in until we left Fairbanks and were clear out of cell phone range) was minimal-to-no real connection to the outside world.

Guests are allowed to use the cell phone booster that Mollie and Sean have if they need to connect with a loved one or require some sort of communication accommodation — but in reality, there was virtually no reliable cell phone or computer connectivity (and no need for it) for the duration of the entire trip.

It didn’t matter. It felt comforting to know we were safely isolated from the dangers and discomforts of the outside world inside the cocoon that is Arctic Hive. We spent a lot of time in the property’s Wilderness Lodge — a 20-foot diameter insulated fiberglass igloo dome that the couple built themselves, by hand. In fact, everything on this property was built by Mollie and Sean (there was nothing here upon their arrival to the land) via lumber and supplies hauled in during the warmer months, the only time of year when construction is possible. ​This dome was where we gathered for meals and bonding between lectures and lessons.

The dome at dusk. Photo: Mollie Busby

Down the hill a bit further is the destination that attracts the eye of most attendees before their trip even begins — a 24-foot Geodesic dome called the “Yoga Hive,” or “The Hive” for short. This is the first place we’d meet upon waking, where we’d practice daily, and where most of our lessons and lectures were held during the immersion.

To say the Yoga Hive is “dreamy” would be an understatement.

This enormous, clear fiberglass dome offers sights of the snow and scenery from above, seemingly bringing you at one with Earth and sky in a protected space meant for releasing all tensions while soaking up the serene spirits. It was like a warm cocoon away from the harsh realities of the real world. Some people travel to Arctic Hive because they see photos and are drawn in by the serenity of the Yoga Dome, and its easy to understand why.

Another favorite part of the journey for me (and my fellow women trainees) was the Busby’s sled dogs, which slept on-site right next to the Yoga Hive igloo in the dog yard.

These jovial, energetic pups were born and bred for pulling sleds — but are Mollie and Sean’s pets, whom they care for and love. Each has its own dog house embedded with a thick layer of straw. While we were at Arctic Hive for our retreat, we were lucky enough to go on a dog sledding ride, an invigorating change of pace.

As for bathroom breaks? It’s still the backcountry wilderness, after all — meaning visitors do their “business “ in the single clean outhouse that’s tended to daily (along with a few designated “facility trees” in the woods).

Interconnectedness in the wilderness

The excitement level matched the beauty of our surroundings. Photo: Tamara Swenson

Living this way — essentially off-grid, among other like-minded women from across the country who had all come to this magical place to learn about spirituality in a completely immersive sense — made yoga teacher training even more powerful than I’d thought possible.

For those who want to visit and experience the enchanting setting of Arctic Hive but aren’t necessarily interested in investing in getting their yoga teacher certification, Mollie and Sean host a lineup of other organized retreats throughout the year. They also rent out the space to groups who want to host customized retreats.

This adventurous duo knows exactly what they’re doing, incorporating respect for their surroundings and a commitment to preserving the integrity of the sacred land on which they reside.

Adventures in the Arctic

Baggage claim in the Arctic. Photo: Molly O’Brien

Mollie and Sean’s sled dogs taught us that in this wild place, Mother Nature is the ultimate Queen. After one particularly rowdy and howl-y night on the date of the 2024 solar eclipse (these dogs like to howl — but there was more howling than usual on this evening) we discovered one of the dogs had given birth to a puppy. It was thrilling, unexpected, and very much welcomed.

The new pup, appropriately named “Eclipse,” made us more aware of how powerful and self-sufficient nature is (we had no idea this dog was pregnant, and it gave birth using its existing instincts and no human intervention). I had never seen a creature so tiny, but fierce. This pup was born in the bush and its mother knew how to survive and keep it alive without anyone else even being aware of its existence until the next morning during the dog’s breakfast time.

I, however, learned how harsh and unforgiving the tundra can be (especially mixed with climate change appearing to warm the earth quicker and quicker each year). One afternoon, I went with Mollie and a few other women to source water that would be filtered for us to drink and cook with. We went down to the river that the Busbys use for their freshwater filtration efforts and dragged the sled across the “ice bridge” leading to the river.

Someone made a joke about falling into the river, and we each leaned over the ice one at a time and filled the bucket up with the streaming snowmelt water, which was frigidly cold, then turned to head back to the Hive with our haul on the sled. I was about 10 steps behind Mollie and another trainee, when I stopped to admire the view of the mountains behind the river from on top of the ice bridge (and perhaps try to snap a quick photo of the sights).

Like something out of a movie, everything sped up while I felt myself tilting downward — slowly, at first, then more quickly careening forward toward and then into the river. Before I even realized what happened I was engulfed from the hip down on my right side in the freezing water — and after we all realized I was physically we were in fits of laughter, because what are the odds it’d actually happen? I became the girl that fell into the frozen river and I don’t think I’ll ever live it down (oh well). Fortunately I was just in need of some dry clothes and a boot warmer to dry out my Mukluks.

No cell phones (just sisterhood) — no problem

The inside of a cabin at Arctic Hive. Photo: Molly O’Brien

After a week of waking up each morning to the quiet and crispness of the clear Arctic air followed by a morning meditation and a series of educational lectures, hikes, and yummy, healthy meals, it was as if we had been spiritually healed (or were on our way to healing ourselves based on the lessons we’d learned in this sacred safe space. It was then time to come out of the cocoon and leave the hive, to return to the “real world” and reintegrate ourselves into society, but with a newfound sense of wonder and purpose.

Witnessing the power of bringing new life into the world with the birth of an innocent puppy, paired with the harsh reality of a river submerging incident (that in another, colder season could have led to vastly more dire consequences), melded with the general sense of community and support felt between the women on-site at Arctic Hive inspired a fresh sense of hope and wonder for healing ourselves and others.

Forever changed inside, among the same outside reality

Having a mala moment. Photo: Mollie Busby

Luckily for us, once we reintegrated following our trip to the Arctic, the journey wasn’t over. We still had a month of virtual teacher training lessons to conquer and a final weekend-long Zoom session where we’d draw together everything we’d learned by each solo teaching a 45-minute class.

During the final day of class, we came together to reflect on how much the experience had changed our lives — from the heartfelt connections we’d made virtually, to the power of the immersion experience and how it stripped us down to reinforce how the most important things in life are not necessarily tangible.

The lessons we learned at The Hive were both in yogic tradition and human nature — to care for and be open to being taken care of, letting go of outside fears and inhibitions and instead opening ourselves up to possibilities that can come with a clearer sense of self-purpose and a greater intention for cultivating a better world.

Traveling to Arctic Hive is an investment spiritually and physically and I can now say with full confidence once you go, your perception of reality will forever be enlightened.

More like thisWellnessThe Best Costa Rica Yoga Retreats to Reset and Recharge This Year

19 Key Largo Airbnb Rentals to Experience the Best of the Keys

Florida Keys is the number one underwater diving spot in the US but Key Largo has the monopoly on the best sites. Before getting acquainted with the aquamarine waters and coral reefs, you need a place to hang your wetsuit. Dip into our selection of oceanside condos and vacation homes to find your new favorite Airbnb Key Largo.

Romantic Airbnbs in Key Largo for twoFamily-friendly Airbnb Key Largo rentalsKey Largo Airbnb rentals for larger groups

We hope you love the Airbnb Key Largo rentals 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. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Romantic Airbnbs in Key Largo for twoWaterfront sunsets in a relaxing spotPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Freshly renovated for the season, this elegant bungalow overlooks a dock frequented by nurse sharks, manatees, and seabirds. All rooms come with a view – even the laundry nook. There’s no better place to catch one of Key Largo’s legendary sunsets than from the private porch with a view of the bobbing yachts. The host is a licensed charter captain and can arrange fishing trips, eco-tours, and golden hour cruises.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $300 per night

Book Now

Key Largo waterfront cabanaPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
This waterside Key Largo Airbnb is a dream base for aquatic-loving couples. The canal leads to the ocean where you’ll find such top diving sites as Rodriguez Key, Christ of the Abyss, and innumerable shipwrecks. An open-plan studio layout invite the light to circulate freely while the wooden walls add a beach shack vibe. After a day exploring the underwater sights, the patio is an unbeatable place to kick back with a beer and watch the sunk sink.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $205 per night

Book Now

Traveling to Florida? Check out Matador’s Florida accommodations guides:15 beautiful Florida Airbnbs for every type of travelerThe best 11 Airbnbs near Universal StudiosThe 12 best Miami Airbnbs from South Beach to Little Havana8 of the coolest Airbnbs near Disney World, Florida15 beautiful Florida Airbnbs for every type of traveler6 Kissimmee Airbnbs for a multi-generational family Disney trip11 Key West Airbnbs to experience the best of the island11 gorgeous Florida Keys Airbnbs to catch the ‘Keys Disease’

Bayside cottage with beach & fishing pierPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Cocooned by lush palms and foliage, this jungle cabin provides a castaway experience. Take a seat on the patio and keep an eye out for iguanas, birds, squirrels, and other curious critters. Interiors are snug but functional with a kitchenette and bathroom. You’ll need to do the lion’s share of your cooking al fresco with the grill. A romantic Key Largo Airbnb retreat for nature-loving couples.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $200 per night

Book Now

Beach condo in downtown Key LargoPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis honeymoon suite sits on the grounds of the Dream Bay Resort on the gulf side of the Keys. It’s nicely proportioned with an open-plan kitchen and lounge plus a patio overlooking the banyan trees. Even better, rental includes complimentary boat dockage, paddle boards, and kayaks to make the most of the awesome waterside location. The famous Snooks Bayside Grill and Mrs. Mac’s Little Kitchen are within walking distance while John Pennekamp State Park is a five-minute drive.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $250 per night

Book Now

Quiet couples’ Airbnb with a hot tubPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis first-floor guest suite opens onto a backyard hideout with a hot tub, fire pit, and covered porch festooned with fairy lights. There’s free parking available while you take the provided bikes for a scoot around the nearby lookouts and bars. The apartment has one cozy bedroom, a full kitchen, laundry facilities, and a roomy bathroom. A crib is on hand if required and the friendly Superhost is only ever a text away if you need local recommendations.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $245 per night

Book Now

Family-friendly Airbnb Key Largo rentalsSunsets In Palms ParadisePhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Although convenient for the restaurants and amenities of central Key Largo, this waterfront rental is set among an acre of lush greenery. The backyard overlooks the sound and comes with a swimming basin. Sunsets here are unreal and made all the better by the external hot tub. You’ll have access to a fleet of kayaks during your stay. The not-for-profit Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder is based next door and will delight the little ones.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $535 per night

Book Now

Waterfront home with kayaks and fire pitPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Surrounded by mangroves, this waterfront Airbnb in Key Largo is situated in a peaceful gated community with direct canal access to the bay. Kayaks are on hand to make the most of this perk and you shouldn’t be surprised to spot manatees, dolphins, and sharks on your morning paddle. Rental includes 80 feet of dock space, fish-cleaning units, and a fire pit for exclusive use.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $700 per night

Book Now

Million dollar view condo at Moon BayPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Located on the fifth floor of an oceanside residential block, this swanky condo looks out over Blackwater Sound. The unit is fitted with sumptuous sofas and beds to guarantee you get your beauty sleep after a day at sea. Communal amenities at Moon Bay that you’ll have full access to include two heated pools, tennis courts, and a games room.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $250 per night

Book Now

Private condo in the northPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Check into this North Key Largo Airbnb condo if you’ve got your eyes on the Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary. Although this is one of the most peaceful settings within the Keys, restaurants and bars are a mere stone’s throw from the complex. The rental is equipped with all the mod-cons you could dream of including Bluetooth speakers, Google Home, and multiple Smart TVs.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $390 per night

Book Now

Luxury townhouse with golf carts and resort perksPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosWhisk the family away for a month in the Sunshine State at this stylish three-bedroom resort rental, a minimum stay of 28 nights is exactly the justification you were looking for. Shared facilities include a large swimming pool, tennis and basketball courts, and a playground. It’s the kind of place where you can keep to yourself or mingle. All furnishings and appliances are brand new including the comfiest beds and a stocked kitchen.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $250 per night

Book Now

Waterfront Airbnb next to John Pennekamp ParkPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis charming family house is a strollable distance from Key Largo’s undersea state park. The interior design recreates the underwater world whereas the tech is almost futuristic with Alexa software installed throughout. The host provides a dinghy, clear-bottom kayak, and paddle boards for cruising the laguna and a golf cart for overland adventuring. For something more buccaneering, rent their deck boat or jet ski. Soak off a day at sea in the private hot tub.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $673 per night

Book Now

Mediterranean-inspired Airbnb in the heart of Key LargoPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosCheck into this coveted oceanside community in the Florida Keys where location and amenities are second to none. This family-friendly townhouse in the Mariner’s Club has beautifully boho decor accented by statement velvet headboards, woven throws, and Floridian art. Rental includes use of the lagoon pool, waterfall grotto, clubhouse, and marina. The host provides bucket-loads of sports gear and snorkeling apparel for the courts and local swimming holes.

Eight guests, two bedrooms
Price: $548 per night

Book Now

Key Largo rentals for larger groupsLuxury home with resort privilegesPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
This luxurious vacation rental home with captivating ocean views is located in the desirable oceanfront community of Playa Largo Ocean Residences. The home is meticulously crafted in the essence of “old” Florida with oval soaking tubs and superior furnishings adding a deluxe finish. A gigantic outdoor terrace complete with a dining area, grill, and wet bar will delight social butterflies within the group. Pets are welcome and guests are welcome to use the resort pool.

Seven guests, three bedrooms
Price: $1,070 per night

Book Now

Mariners Club ResortPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
This homely townhouse comfortably accommodates ten guests and grants access to the resort’s communal facilities. At the heart of the complex, you’ll find a spacious swimming pool as well as a spa pool with waterfall features. All floors benefit from lots of natural light while the balconies are the perfect place to watch the day go by. A fantastic Key Largo Airbnb for family groups.

Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $750 per night

Book Now

Sky Blue HomePhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
This neat rental property is brand new to the Airbnb Key Largo scene. Interiors follow a soothing, blue theme that makes it easy to shrug off any worries and slip into vacation mode. All amenities are state-of-the-art including a professional kitchen. A two-tiered pool awaits you in the backyard while balconies provide a space for reflection.

Fourteen guests, four bedrooms
Price: $740 per night

Book Now

Historic Shadow PointPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
This 100-year-old house evokes a sense of what Key Largo was once like. Set on 2.5 acres and surrounded on three sides by water, this secluded Airbnb Key Largo invites you to bask in the sound of the waves and indulge in R&R. Conch-style architecture and suites that burst with color and character ensure that this remote rental feels like a proper home away from home. Pets are welcome and special events are permitted with advance approval.

Twelve guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $1,890 per night

Book Now

Gorgeous vacation villa with a pool and sea viewsPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosYou’re never far from the water in Key Largo but if you want to live like a baller, this Floridian home has a private pool with a basketball hoop and Jacuzzi. It’s marooned right at the edge of a downtown cay and gives an urban desert island vibe with ocean views from all rooms and tons of outdoor space for lawn games and sunning. The gourmet kitchen has all you need to attempt a seafood boil to savor on the patio.

Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $1,200 per night

Book Now

Oceanfront Airbnb and private beach in Key LargoPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis is the kind of rental where tours take a backseat to staying in. Your tropical oasis is located within a gated community and comes with direct access to a secluded beach where you can fish off the dock. There’s space to moor a boat otherwise you can help yourself to kayaks and paddle boards. Enjoy games of darts and ping pong free from bugs in the screened-in porch and put your skills to the test in the tiki bar.

Nine guests, three bedrooms
Price: $891 per night

Book Now

Funky pool house near bike trails and birdsPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis cute turquoise home is an “upside down” design with the main lounge and kitchen on the second floor. The first floor bedroom suite is more like a separate apartment with its own kitchenette and private bathroom, particularly as there’s no internal staircase linking the levels. The fenced backyard has a pool, spa, and barbecue facilities. Complimentary bicycles and helmets are provided for hitting the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail.

Seven guests, three bedrooms
Price: $413 per night

Book Now

More like thisSustainabilityThe Florida Keys Are Leading the Charge on Sustainable Wildlife Tourism in the US

24 Adventures for Your 2024 Summer Calendar

With 3.1 million square miles to roam, America’s Lower 48 has more than its fair share of adventure. At least, it does if you have the right wheels. In the Jeep® Wrangler 4xe — America’s best-selling plug-in hybrid1 — there’s almost nowhere you can’t go. From off-roading on mountaintops to zooming down sandy beaches to tracing the edges of the continent, it’s all possible. When you’re ready to forge a path toward an epic summer 2024, roll the top down and roam the road on one of these 24 adventures.

BUILD YOUR WRANGLER 4xe for a 2024 summer adventure.

1. Drive off-highway to the largest alpine lake in America.

Photo: IM_photo/Shutterstock

Due west of Lake Tahoe, the country’s best OHV route rises through the trees: the Rubicon Trail. It’s 22 miles of dense Sierra Nevada forest, granite boulders, water crossings, and segments with names like “Granite Slab” and “Big Sluice.” Ending at Tahoe’s shores, it’s a trip only for those with a suitable off-road vehicle — and plenty of off-road know-how.

2. Experience the Great River Road, Southern-style.

Coursing for some 3,000 miles down the Mississippi River, only the Great River Road rivals Route 66 in terms of historic towns and endless Americana. For a shorter stretch, we recommend Memphis to Vicksburg — you’ll get Civil Rights history and museums, plenty of blues and barbecue, and Southern soul food paper-plated and served riverside.

3. Wind down the longest drivable beach in the US.

Photo: Bandersnatch/Shutterstock

For Maine-esque charm on the West Coast, head to Long Beach Peninsula, WA. And long it is: The 28-mile beach is a national highway and the longest drivable beach in the US. Its sands connect five state parks, two lighthouses, a historic fort, and lush hiking trails. One of the spots to check out is Cape Disappointment — but rest assured it’s nearly impossible to be disappointed here.

4. Take to the skies in southeastern Oregon.

At 2.5 million acres, the newly minted Oregon Outback Dark Sky Sanctuary is the largest dark sky sanctuary in the world. Sleep under the stars at a campground in Fremont National Forest or plan it as a day trip from nearby Klamath Falls. In town, trade the telescope for the binoculars: Klamath Falls has a bird count above 350 species, making this one adventure where things are “looking up.”

5. Search for wild horses on North Carolina’s barrier islands.

Photo: BHamms/Shutterstock

North Carolina’s Outer Banks has some famously wild residents: the Corolla Wild Horses. Descended from Spanish mustangs, these stocky creatures are a sight to behold. To see them on your own, you’ll need the 4WD capability of something like the Jeep Wrangler 4xe to navigate the northern beaches of Corolla and Carova. If you spot them, treat them like grizzly bears, and don’t get too close!

6. Drive back to 1969 in New York’s Catskills.

The Sullivan Catskills, just 90 minutes from Manhattan, are pretty legendary. Here, you can throw it back to the golden age of full-service resorts, the birth of American dry fly fishing, and the advent of the modern music festival — yep, this is where Woodstock took place in 1969, and you can tour the site today.

7. Go on a lesser-traveled Yellowstone adventure.

Photo: Busara/Shutterstock

Largely thanks to Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks, it’s nearly impossible to score a summer hotel reservation or dinner table in Jackson, WY, the parks’ popular basecamp. Instead, head across the Idaho border to Driggs, a 2,000-person town deep in the Teton, Big Hole, and Snake River mountain ranges. You’ll get all the grandeur of the Teton–Yellowstone corridor without sacrificing lodging options, things to do, and elbow room.

8. Uncover Wisconsin’s architectural delights.

An hour from Madison, WI, an inexplicable sea of world-class culture has coalesced in the hamlet of Spring Green (pop: 1,500). Once in town, explore Taliesin, the home and studio of Frank Lloyd Wright; American Players Theatre, the premier classical theatre in the nation; and House on the Rock, a pseudo-Frank Lloyd Wright hallucination and Meow Wolf-like experience.

9. Get to know Colorado’s “other” national park site.

Photo: Caspar Schlageter/Shutterstock

Drive five minutes west of Grand Junction and you’ll begin scaling the walls of Colorado National Monument. It’s got all the red-rock splendor of well-known sites like Zion but without the crowds and waiting lines. The 23-mile Rim Rock Drive is one of the American West’s grandest, and that’s saying something.

10. See Oklahoma’s mountains and deserts.

Oklahoma doesn’t get the credit it’s due: The Sooner State has 10 distinct ecological regions, from Rocky Mountain foothills to desert to Great Plains and more. Black Mesa, the state’s highest point at 4,974 feet, is the trail to take it all in. At 8.4 miles out and back, you’ll move from shortgrass prairie and fields of cacti to juniper-covered hills leading to views of Colorado and New Mexico.

11. Find your track on California’s Lost Coast.

Photo: Pete Niesen/Shutterstock

When surveyors were mapping out California roads, one chunk of land was so rugged they skipped it. Now known as the “Lost Coast,” this area — 3.5 hours north of San Francisco — is largely unpopulated, undeveloped, and unbelievably scenic. From Humboldt County’s Mattole Beach, stretch your legs on the renowned Lost Coast Trail and see this uncharted region for yourself.

12. Paddle glow-in-the-dark waters in Florida.

On the coast east of Orlando, the rockets of Kennedy Space Center light up the sky by day; by night, bioluminescence lights up the water. Kayakers can paddle Merritt Island’s glowing, neon-blue waters come summer — the lucky ones will see a manatee or dolphin breaking the surface, causing glowing “sparks” to fly.

13. Drive across the “Switzerland of America.”

Photo: Jacob Boomsma/Shutterstock

Colorado’s US-550 between Ouray and Silverton is nicknamed the “Million Dollar Highway,” and if it cost a million dollars to drive, it’d still be worth it. Slicing through the San Juan Mountains, you’ll land in Ouray — aka the “Switzerland of America” — a rugged playground of waterfalls, hiking trails, mountain biking, and off-roading adventure you’ll definitely want a Jeep Wrangler for.

14. Hit the white-sand beaches of Alabama.

Nope, no need to reach for the passport — Alabama’s white-sand beaches are zero flights and four wheels away. Set up somewhere like Gulf Shores, where 15 public beaches mean it’s dealer’s choice for fun in the sun. Once it gets dark, hit the legendary Flora-Bama, situated on the state line, to revel amongst a different kind of sea: one of country jams and cowboy hats.

15. Chase wild waterfalls on Minnesota’s North Shore.

Photo: Ramesh Pavvluri Veera/Shutterstock

Highway 61 out of Duluth follows Minnesota’s North Shore, aka the edges of Lake Superior. An ancient sea of lava has left behind countless raging waterfalls, epic river gorges, towering sea cliffs, and more — all right off the road. This one’s a stunner any time of year, but fall color makes it a real treat.

16. Hunt for caves and springs in the Ozarks.

Missouri’s Ozarks are great from above ground…and below. Over 300 caves exist within the boundaries of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, including many that have filled with water, called springs. The 310-foot-deep Blue Spring — accessible only via steep dirt road fit for the Wrangler 4xe — is the granddaddy of them all. The National Park Service calls it “one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever find, anywhere.”

17. Find out if you can hack the “Loneliest Road.”

Photo: Natalia Bratslavsky/Shutterstock

Looking for solitude? You’ve found it: Nevada’s Highway 50 is “The Loneliest Road in America.” Despite the lack of traffic and services — you’ll be happy for the 4xe’s 370-mile range — the attractions are plenty: ghost towns, fabulous state parks, old-school saloons, dark skies, and views of the Silver State’s mountain horizons.

18. Drive to the edge of America.

The final fringe of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Drummond Island sits on the northern shores of Lake Huron, glancing at the Canadian border. After the car ferry from DeTour, dirt roads wind into the forest and to the island’s edges at Marblehead, where the nation’s last cliffs rise out of panoramic waters. Get there, and then it’s up to you: Drop a line, tie up your boots, or test out those all-terrain tires on the island’s rugged ORV trails.

19. Dig into the beauty of New York’s Finger Lakes.

Photo: Paul Massie Photography/Shutterstock

Like a bear clawed at the map of upstate New York, the Finger Lakes are long, narrow, and fjord-like — not to mention lined with vineyards and full of history. A lot is possible here, from scuba diving and hiking the “Grand Canyon of the East” (that’s Letchworth State Park) to witnessing Seneca Falls’ suffragette history and sipping slowly on the local tonic: ice wine.

20. Learn about New Orleans’ wild, disappearing biodiversity.

While New Orleans is always worth a stop, its environs offer temporary adventure: South Louisiana contains around half of the country’s wetlands, and they’re disappearing at an alarming rate. Hear the story via swamp tours through Jean Lafitte National Historical Park, visit threatened coastal communities like Shell Beach, and tour the Bayou Bienvenue Wetlands Triangle, a ghost marsh just a few miles from the French Quarter.

21. See Big Bend how it’s meant to be seen.

Photo: Zack Frank/Shutterstock

Texas’ Big Bend National Park is fabulous in the frontcountry, but those with street-legal off-roading vehicles like the Wrangler 4xe get access to the park’s quietest, most scenic vistas. With 100+ miles of backroads that vary in difficulty — from the rough River Road, the park’s most remote, to the extremely challenging Black Gap Road — Big Bend can be all yours to explore.

22. Witness a migration of epic proportions.

Possibly the most famous migration in the country, more than half a million sandhill cranes take to Nebraska’s Platte River every spring. Picture blackened, bugling skies. I-80 follows the gentle river, making the experience ultra-accessible to anyone on four wheels. Set up in Kearney in March, and you’ll inevitably witness the wild annual scene.

23. Go out-of-this-world in New Mexico.

While you could take New Mexico’s Breakfast Burrito Byway with no regrets — yes, that’s a real thing — a different New Mexico route gets you more R&R: Ruidoso to Roswell. High in the Sierra Blanca Mountains, Ruidoso has some of the country’s southernmost skiing. An hour east lies Roswell, site of the famed UFO crash, where answers to your questions can be found at the International UFO Museum and Research Center.

24. Take it easy on Lover’s Key.

Photo: Maridav/Shutterstock

This has been a big summer. For some actual R&R, head down to Southwest Florida and Lover’s Key State Park, in Fort Myers Beach. Take the tram or head on foot into the park, where you’ll emerge onto a 2-mile sugar-sand beach famous for seashells and sunsets. Your summer 2024 is sunsetting too, but one question remains: Where will your Wrangler 4xe take you come fall?

1 Based on 2022CY Q4 Sales, JD Power Retail Sales Data (4xe trim claim only)

This New Flight Is the Only Direct Way to Get to Greenland From North America

Getting to Greenland from North America is neither a quick nor a straight-forward affair. North American travelers keen to visit the biggest island in the world first have to fly to Denmark (Copenhagen) or Iceland (Keflavik) and then connect to Greenland (Nuuk). That is until the end of June when a new flight will finally link North America and Greenland directly.

Starting June 26, 2024, Air Greenland will fly directly between Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, and Iqaluit, Canada. Iqaluit is the capital of the territory of Nunavut which is located in Northern Canada. This new flight will be the only direct way to get to Greenland from North America.

Iqaluit being a remote location, Air Greenland is partnering with Canadian airline Canadian North to make sure that travelers can seamlessly connect to and from other air travel hubs such as Ottawa, Montreal, and Kuujjuaq in Northern Quebec.

Thanks to the collaboration between the two airlines, and to make things easier for travelers, you can purchase your flights between Ottawa/Montreal/Kuujjuaq/Iqaluit and Nuuk by visiting just one website: either Air Greenland’s or Canada North’s.

There will be one weekly flight between Nuuk and Iqaluit every Wednesday. The flight, which will be operated by one of Air Greenland’s signature red-and-white Dash-8 aircrafts (a twin turboprop), will take only two hours.

According to Air Greenland, the starting price for a flight between Nuuk and Iqaluit is $287 (DKK 1,995 or 395 CAD).

The new flight route will be open until October 23, 2024, when tourism season ends; however, there’s a chance the route might expand if enough travelers take advantage of this new direct flight.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Q’s Greenland (@qsgreenland)

Citizens of the United states and citizens of Canada do not need a visa to enter Greenland; however, visa-exempt foreign nationals (except US citizens) do need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada by air.

More like thisTravelTraveling to the Northernmost City in the World Is a Lot Easier Than You Think

The 6 Best Patagonia Baggies Alternatives for Men and Women

Even if you’ve never worn Patagonia Baggies shorts, you’ve almost certainly seen people wearing them. Realistically, you’ve probably seen a lot of people wearing them.

That’s because Baggies were one of the first shorts from the now-global outdoorsy brand, introduced in 1982. The brand touts them as ideal for “pretty much anything,” and they come in dozens of colors and patterns for men, women, and kids.

Women’s Baggies have a five-inch inseam, and also come in a “Barely Baggies” style (2.5-inch inseam) and a “long” style (with a seven-inch inseam). People buying men’s styles can choose from the standard baggie in a five-inch inseam, a “long” style with a seven-inch inseam, a more minimal version (without pockets) with a 6.5-inch inseam. There’s also a hemp version, also with a 6.5-inch inseam. Depending on the pair, they’re $59 to $75, and most styles are made with quick-drying fabrics and recycled materials. They have a loose fit and an elastic waistband, and front hand pockets.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Cotopaxi (@cotopaxi)

Sounds pretty good, right? And they are — for many people. But if you’ve tried them and can’t find the right fit, or don’t like the fabric, or just don’t quite like how they look during summer adventures, there’s no need to worry. Patagonia Baggies alternatives are readily available from other outdoor companies, which likely designed similar shorts in response to the ongoing popularity of Baggies.

We tested six of the best Patagonia Baggies alternatives from our editors’ favorite outdoor brands — and these are the standout winners.

Stio Second Light ShortFree Fly Apparel Breeze ShortCotopaxi Brinco ShortREI Trailmade Amphib ShortsStio Drifter ShortsActual Patagonia Baggies

We hope you love the gear 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.

Stio Second Light Short: best ultra-light alternativePhoto: Suzie DundasAvailable sizes: Men’s: S-XXL; Women’s: XS-XLTester info: Tester is 5’7″ and normally wears a SSize tested: MPrice: $69

The Stio Second Light Short was my favorite Patagonia Baggies alternative I tested, finding the sweet spot blend between comfort and outdoorsy style. To me, they look like a pair of generic, modern-cut shorts that can match any and all outdoor occasions. The downside is that they’re probably the least-similar to Patagonia Baggies, with an inside liner, no side pockets, and a limited palette of only a few color options.

However, they have plenty of perks, too. They’re very, very lightweight, and while it hasn’t gotten above 75 degrees Fahrenheit where I’m testing (in Squamish, British Columbia), I have a feeling they’ll be my go-to hiking short on hot days through the summer. The fabric is recycled nylon, which feels like a very thin, swishy fabric, like a lightweight windbreaker. When I got caught in a rainy downpour, the thin fabric felt like it was sticking to my legs here and there. But it also dried quicker than expected — certainly far quicker than a swimsuit or thicker fabrics — so I wouldn’t think twice about getting these wet on kayak trips or beach days.

Ignore the bad lighting, focus on the shorts. Stio Second Light short in medium on the left, small on the right. Photo: Suzie Dundas

The other iffy thing about these shorts was the sizing. I tried both a small and a medium and felt like they both fit fine. I went with the mediums as they had a slightly baggier look, to make them fit more like a true Patagonia Baggie alternative. But I felt like I was in between sizes, which may mean they run a touch small.

Pros: Very comfortable, super lightweight, dries quickly, modern style

Cons: No pockets, potentially not as durable as thicker fabrics

Tim, Matador‘s transitional content editor, recently tested a few additional pairs of Stio shorts for men and ended up really liking the two pairs he tested.

Buy Now: Women’s Second Light ShortBuy Now: Men’s Second Light ShortFree Fly Apparel Bamboo-Lined Breeze Short: best for movement

Photo: Tim Wenger

Available sizes: Men’s S-3XL, Women’s XS-XLTester info:  Tester is 5’7″ and normally wears a size 30 or size SSize tested: SPrice: $68

What I like most about the Free Fly Men’s Bamboo-Lined Breeze Active Short is that it avoids what I dislike about most activewear shorts – an external-facing drawstring. It eliminates the need for frequent re-tying, and spares you from the lame-looking aesthetic of swaying drawstrings or (worse yet), a visible bowtie in the front of your shorts.

I also appreciate how they fit looser at the bottom and have a built-in underwear liner. The liner isn’t mesh, so it’s actually comfortable, and comes with the added bonus of making these shorts yoga-appropriate. I won’t be taking them on the river this summer, but for land-based recreation, they’ll get all sorts of use.

The Men’s Breeze Active Short also looks good for just about any fitness-based activity. I opted for the 5.5-inch inseam because I do a lot of stretching and ab-focused exercise that requires positioning my legs at various angles, and this mid-length hits the sweet spot between enough thigh coverage and room to move. I keep them in my gym bag, but have pulled them out for yard work or casual bike rides with my daughter.

On that note, my first thought when I pulled these shorts out of the package they arrived in was, “These are perfect dad shorts.” This was confirmed when I walked into the living room and my wife declared, “Those are some nice new dad shorts you got there.” 

It’s true – the Men’s Breeze Active Short are dad shorts. But they’re stylish, cool dad shorts – the shorts dads wear while traversing a trail or an airport terminal with their kiddos. They’re fit, functional, and versatile – exactly the type of dad I want to be.

Pros: Straightforward cut, comfortable liner, no outward-facing drawstring

Cons: Built-in brief dries slower than mesh, some reviewers report difficulty with sizing (view Free Fly Apparel’s exchange policy here)

– Tim Wenger, Transactional Content Editor

Looking for women’s Free Fly feedback? This same editor recently reviewed the Free Fly Apparel brand after wearing its gear for a few years. Here’s a deeper dive into the brand and why it’s her go-to for travel and outdoor adventures.

Buy Now: Free Fly Men’s Bamboo-lined Breeze Active ShortBuy Now: Free Fly Women’s Bamboo-lined Breeze ShortCotopaxi Brinco Patterned Short: best for style points

Photo: Suzie Dundas

Available sizes: Women’s XS-XL, Men’s S-XXLTester info: Tester is 5’7″ and normally wears a SSize tested: SPrice: $70

Style-wise, I think it’s clear the Cotopaxi Brinco Short wins for flashiest and most fun Patagonia Baggies alternatives. (Based on the pattern, not based on my collective fashion choices above). Patagonia Baggies are known for coming in lots of cool patterns, but I think the Brinco’s “Tempest/Hot Punch” combo, inspired by a topographic map, is pretty darn rad. It’s one of four equally cool color options, as well as four bright solid-color options. They’re similar to other pull-on athletic shorts, including the Baggies, with two front pockets and a back pocket with a button closure. The materials are similar, too, with both the Brinco Short and Patagonia Baggies made from recycled nylon.

I have only one beef with the Brinco Short, and it’s not something that will bother everyone: there’s a vertical seam on the inside of each thigh, and I rubbed my skin sometimes when hiking. It wasn’t bad, and I say this as an afterthought because I don’t think everyone will experience it. On most of the online models, the waistband comes up a bit higher than it does on me. But my slightly odd proportions means they’re semi low-rise on me (about three inches below my belly button). So the shorts sit a bit lower on me than they’re designed to.

If you have relatively normal-ish proportions, I don’t think it’ll be a problem. I still very much like these shorts and will wear them quite a bit. I’m just not sure I’d wear them for extra-long hikes or other adventures where the rubbing, albeit minimal, could become a larger problem.

Otherwise, the elastic waist, pockets big enough for a phone, and quick-dry material make them a worthy Patagonia Baggies alternative for all the same types of adventures. In my testing, light rain and splashing beaded off the Brinco Short. And when fully submerged (tested in my bathtub), they dried so quickly that you could almost see the water evaporating off.

Pros: Comfortable, cool pattern, excellent quick-dry performance, straightforward sizing, UPF 50

Cons: More expensive than Patagonia Baggies, non-inclusive sizing, inside seams could be annoying

Other Matador editor have tested Cotopaxi gear and really liked other pieces, too. Check out our recent reviews of the Fuego Down Jacket and the Teca Fleece Jacket.

Buy Now: Women’s Brinco ShortBuy Now: Men’s Brinco ShortREI Co-op Trailmade Amphib Short: best budget-friendly pick

Photo: Heather Leyva

Available sizes: Men’s: S-3XL; Women’s: XS-3XTester info: Tester is 5’1″ and normally wears a size XSSize tested: XSPrice: $14+

At just over five feet tall, I’m fairly petite, which can make buying shorts a little tough. So it’s always nice to find a pair of shorts that not just fit well, but also look a bit stylish. Some of the reviews noted that the lack of stretch can make these hard to slip on, which made me question whether to go up a size, but I found they fit true to size for me as someone with a straight and narrow hip build.

I didn’t try a petite size as I often do, but the inseam and level of coverage felt proportional to the XS size, and I didn’t feel like I was swimming in fabric or wearing a style meant for a taller body. The waist lands right above my belly button and the length strikes that comfortable balance between being a short-short and coming so close to the knees that it makes my legs look stumpy.

There are a number of finishes that make this a perfect everyday short, both on the road and at home. Whereas Patagonia Baggies rely only on an elastic waistband, REI’s Trailmade Amphib Shorts add a built-in belt. I found it to be better for wearing with backpacks or anything else that may make your shorts ride up or down on your hips. They’re a slightly more outdoorsy Patagonia Baggies alternative, with a durable water repellent finish, 50+ UPF protection, and a more durable-feeling fabric weave.

I tested in both the dry heat of Colorado and the humid environment of Jamaica, and the shorts dried fast even when nearly soaked, so sweat and moisture never reached super uncomfortable levels, even without a liner. The front hand pockets are joined by a zippered back pocket with a drainage hole, creating enough room for the small things I reach for too often to put in a pack, like my phone or sunglasses. The zipper on the back pocket adds security, useful for everything from walking around new places on vacation to keeping my cash secure when walking to an out-of-the-way riverside fishing spot.

For anyone taking these into more adventurous territory, the material’s durability promises longevity. It’s made with 89 percent ripstop nylon and 11 percent polyester. Snags may not drop off the shorts as easy as water does, but one small tear won’t lead to needing a new pair of shorts midway through a hike or fishing trip.

Pros: Petite fit for smaller sizes, water repellent and quick drying, lots of pockets

Cons: Not a lot of stretch, curvy bodies may need to size up

– Heather V., Denver, CO

Buy Now: Women’s ($34+)Buy Now: Men’s ($14+) Stio Drifter Short: the most like actual Patagonia Baggies

Photo: Suzie Dundas

Available sizes: Men’s: S-XXL; Women’s: XS-XLTester info: Tester is 5’7″ and normally wears a SSize tested: SPrice: $59

Two from the same brand? You bet, since Stio makes two strong contenders for Patagonia Baggies alternatives. If the Second Light Short looks a little too much like gym-wear or not durable enough, you may be happier with the Drifter Short. The Drifter Short is very similar to Patagonia Baggies, with a slightly thicker fabric, a quick-drying finish, and two hand pockets (one with a smaller zipper pocket). There are no pockets on the back, making these a good pick for buyers who get annoyed by sitting on their Chapsticks or sunglasses during a hiking snack break. Were it not for the small Stio logo on the bottom right, you’d think these actually were Patagonia Baggies.

The Drifter Short has a small zipper pocket easily accessible in the front. Photo: Suzie Dundas

Style-wise, these shorts are certainly not formal — that’s not really the point of athletic shorts, after all — but it’s fair to say they may be the most versatile for wear outside of outdoor scenarios. With fresh color options, a curved hem that creates a clean, horizontal line across your thigh, and a regular fit that skims your hips without being tight, they don’t look quite as much like backpacking clothing as a few other Patagonia Baggies alternatives we tested. Like the men’s Breeze Short above, the drawstring is internal, so you can tuck your shirt in and show a clean waistband.

I ended up ordering this pair in a small and a medium and kept the small, though both felt like they could have worked. If you prefer a looser fit, consider sizing up. But most reviewers thought they fit fairly true to size.

Pros: Relaxed fit, secure zipper pocket, slightly more tailored style

Cons: No back pockets (good and bad), limited sizing (XL is the largest)

Buy Now: Men’sBuy Now: Women’s Actual Patagonia Baggies: a tried-and-true staplePhoto: Tim WengerPhoto: Tim WengerAvailable sizes: Men’s: XS-XXL; Women’s: XS-3XTester info: Tester is 5’7″ and normally wears a size 30 or SSize tested: SPrice: From $65+ (often on sale)

Two years ago, after a decade of staring from the outside in, I finally broke down and got a pair of Patagonia Baggies with a five-inch inseam. It look less than a week to realize that my long-time avoidance of the Baggies due to them being “too popular,” was self-detrimental — they are great. Baggies are perfect active shorts for activities like hiking and bike commuting because they’re flexible while retaining a tough and durable recycled nylon outer shell. That gives them basic water resistance, which is a must-have —  getting caught in the rain on a bike commute is the worst if you’re clothes immediately soak through).

However, it’s that same nylon that made me give the Free Fly Bamboo-Lined Breeze Active Short’s the advantage. Baggies are less flexible, so they move less with your body during activities like yoga. I’m also not a huge fan of the mesh liner in Baggies as it feels like I need to wear boxers too, which gets to be too many layers on hot days. That said, Baggies are better styled for full-day use: I can wear them on a trail and then out for a beer without worrying about swapping shorts in the car.

Patagonia Baggies also last a long time. After two years of consistent use, I still feel great about wearing my teal-blue Baggies regularly. They’ve met with dirt, mud, grass, and various types of ergonomic office chairs, and come away the better for it. The shorts are broken in and ready for summer number three. Bring on the adventures.

Buy Now: Women’s ($59)Buy Now: Men’s ($65)More like thisOutdoorWe Tested Patagonia Rain Jackets in the Real World and These Are the 6 Best

Teenager Leaves Parents on an Island After They Miss Their Cruise Departure

A family’s cruise vacation has gone viral after a teenager was forced to leave their parents behind on a Caribbean island. The unidentified 18-year-old, posting on Reddit, explained how a dream family cruise turned into a nightmare due to their parents’ tardiness.

The teenager revealed that the cruise was a graduation and an 18th birthday present — a break from the usual all-inclusive resorts the family is accustomed to.

“I told my parents it was different and that if we went on excursions, we had to follow the schedule no matter what,” says the Reddit user.

To pre-empt any issues, the teenager explicitly warned their parents about the strict timetables on cruise ships. Despite these warnings, disaster struck during a port stop. The family became engrossed in shopping and exploring the local markets, oblivious to the approaching departure time. The teenager’s repeated pleas to return to the ship were ignored, leaving them with a heart-wrenching decision. Faced with the prospect of missing the cruise altogether, they boarded the ship without their parents.

“They missed the departure. By a lot. Like 45 minutes. They got ahold of me through WhatsApp. They wanted to know why I didn’t get the boat to wait for them,” the teenager resorts.

“I wanted to scream that they were not going to inconvenience 3,998 people because two could not understand what a schedule was,” they continue. “They ended up having to fly to the next port from there, and it was expensive. They are pissed at me for leaving them behind.”

The incident has sparked a heated online debate, with most sympathizing with the difficult decision and acknowledging the importance of cruise schedules.

“The docks and ship have a schedule to keep. They are adults and need to be responsible for getting back on time. Which is something you have figured out in less than six months of being an adult. At least you don’t have to go on any more vacations with them after this,” proclaims a Reddit commenter.

“What precisely do they think you could have done? Kidnapped the captain? Staged your own drowning?” says another.

No cruise line wants passengers to miss the departure time, and every company has different protocols for scheduling. That said, if you miss your cruise, you’ll have to purchase a flight ticket to the next port.

This is not the first report of passengers getting caught up with excursions and not getting to the vessel on time this year. Eight travelers on an African cruise were stranded on São Tomé and Príncipe, an island just to the east of Equatorial Guinea, in April. In this instance the group claimed they told the independent organized tour guide to call ahead to the ship to explain they were late. Despite efforts, they were not allowed to board the anchored vessel.

More like thisAirports + FlyingMade a Tight Connection on United Recently? You Have AI to Thank.