Matador Network's Blog, page 160
June 5, 2024
New American Airlines Routes Will Take You Directly to the Caribbean This Winter
If you’ve sealed up your winter blues in a padlocked box for summer, it might be time to unpack those emotions and book flights for a 2024 cold weather escape. American Airlines has unveiled an expanded schedule to Latin America and the Caribbean, offering us more options for direct flights for the perfect winter getaway.
The expansion includes eight new routes and increased service on sixteen existing ones. The airline will operate over 2,350 weekly flights to more than 95 destinations across the two regions.
Among the highlights are new daily flights from New York (JFK) to Bridgetown, Barbados, kicking off in November. Philadelphia will also gain a new Saturday service to Bridgetown beginning later that same month. American Airlines will become the sole US carrier serving La Romana, Dominican Republic, with a daily service starting in December, and the only major US airline with a direct flight to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Traveling to the Caribbean? Check out Matador’s Caribbean accommodations guides: The Coolest, Cheapest Airbnbs in the Caribbean 13 of the Best Adults-Only All-Inclusive Caribbean Resorts A Stunning New Resort Makes One of the Caribbean’s Least Visited Islands Instantly Accessible Get a Taste of Luxury and Local Culture at This Aruba Beachfront Resort and Casino The 19 Best Jamaica Airbnbs With Pools, Beach Access, and Luxurious Amenities This Newly Renovated Punta Cana Resort Elevates the All-Inclusive American Airlines new winter routes to Latin America and the CaribbeanCharlotte (CLT) — Argyle International Airport in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVD)Saturday service starting on December 7.
Miami (MIA) — La Romana, Dominican Republic (LRM)Daily service starting December 5.
New York (JFK) — Bridgetown, Barbados (BGI)Daily service starting November 5.
New York (JFK) — St. Lucia (UVF)Saturday service starting December 7.
New York (JFK) — St. Maarten (SXM)Saturday service starting December 7.
New York (JFK) — Argyle International Airport in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVD)Saturday service starting December 7.
Philadelphia (PHL) — Bridgetown, Barbados (BGI)Saturday service starting November 9.
Philadelphia (PHL) — Liberia, Costa Rica (LIR)Saturday service starting December 7.
American Airlines is also significantly increasing frequencies on existing routes to popular destinations like Cancun and Puerto Vallarta in Mexico. Plan your winter beach vacation today. Tickets on all routes are available to book now. 
Landmark Digs Meet Contemporary Comfort at the Newly Restored Hotel Cleveland
As I enter Hotel Cleveland in the Ohio city of the same name, I pause to take in the grandeur of the restyled lobby, the showpiece of this Marriott Autograph property’s recent $90 million restoration project.
I’m greeted by gleaming marbled floors, a soaring arched multi-story ceiling, an expansive front desk with handsome ornate wood paneling, and sight lines that draw my gaze to the floor-to-ceiling windows across the vast space overlooking Cleveland’s bustling Public Square. I see shiny bronze, golden, and mustard hues. Carefully curated accent pieces, such as fringed window treatments and antique lamps, yield a 21st-century Gilded Age aesthetic, letting guests know that their stay is going to be modern yet nostalgic.
Hospitality has been central to the 14-story white glazed brick hotel since it first opened its doors in 1918. Located at the intersection of Superior Avenue and Public Square, the heart of Cleveland’s entertainment and business district, Hotel Cleveland has hosted an impressive bench of notable guests over the past century: Charles Lindbergh, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., The Beatles, and US Presidents Harry Truman, John F. Kennedy, and George H. W. Bush among them.
My career pedigree is rather subdued in comparison, but I’m given the rockstar treatment at check-in nonetheless. I’m assigned to a larger suite on the 14th floor (from $449 per night) that overlooks Public Square along one wall and opens to a city view stretching to the southern shore of Lake Erie along another.
Accommodations and amenities at Hotel Cleveland
Photo: Hotel Cleveland
The hotel has 401 guest rooms in total, including 50 suites. Each received a complete makeover during the restoration, yet the city’s heritage is carefully woven into the updates. I’m particularly impressed by the many nods to Cleveland’s industrial roots and the significance that manufacturing played in the city’s economic development in the early 1900s.
My room features a large, colorful mural depicting Cleveland at the turn of the century. Detailed early-21st-century patent diagrams, depicting sewing machines and plumbing fixtures from noted industrial firms, are framed and mounted on the walls. The wallpaper pattern mimics the textiles and fabrics that were prevalent during the era, and the lampshades take the shape of oversized bobbins, the ever-present carriers of thread at the time.
While the property pays homage to its past glory at every turn, there’s a clear emphasis on contemporary comfort and amenities. My oversized suite has a significant work desk with plenty of USB power portals, two 55-inch TVs, a dining table that comfortably seats four, and a cozy sofa bed for spreading out. The extra-large bathroom has a double vanity and a rainshower complete with an additional hand-held wand.
More modern amenities await guests in the 24-hour fitness center, including free weights, Bosu Balls, and brand new Life Fitness ellipticals, treadmills, exercise bikes, and racks.
Dining and drinking at Hotel Cleveland
Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Cleveland
Homages to Hotel Cleveland’s home city continue on the plates at Maker, the property’s spacious open bar and primary dining venue. A backlit bar with a drop-down emerald green chandelier is the room’s centerpiece, with specialty cocktails matching the decor’s bold flair. The bartender blends up the signature Kon Tiki tropical cooler, a nod to the former bar here.
There’s a story behind each of Maker’s half-dozen other signature drinks, including the Midnight Train, a hat tip to Gladys Knight who stayed here prior to her 1996 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Equally impressive is a standout list of local microbrews, including the Coffee Stout from Masthead, Double Wing Brewing’s POC Pilsner, and Brew Kettle’s White Raj IPA.
Maker’s lunch and dinner menu features many share plates, including walleye cakes, a buttery fresh water midwestern fish; pretzel charcuterie with Cleveland kielbasa, locally made soppressata, gouda, white cheddar, and beer mustard; Ohio City pierogies; and reuben sliders. Large appetites are slayed by bigger plates such as a wagyu bavette steak, Verlasso salmon with potato latkes, and grilled brick chicken. I save room for the buckeye torte (made with peanut butter and chocolate) and am not disappointed.
Hotel Cleveland’s other dining establishment is called Mowrey’s, named after the 19th-century tavern that once occupied this space. Open for breakfast and brunch, Mowrey’s serves American classics with a Cleveland twist. I especially enjoy the lemon ricotta cornmeal waffles with berry coulis and go big on my last day with the Cleveland Benedict — two poached eggs atop corned beef nestled on Jewish rye and topped with special Hollandaise. For good measure I add a couple of crispy potato latkes. Pure heaven.
How to get to Hotel Cleveland
Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Cleveland
A huge plus about booking a stay at Hotel Cleveland is its central location. The property is connected to Tower City Center, a retail and commercial center with light-rail connection directly to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. My return trip to the airport took less than 30 minutes, and I was dropped off inside the terminal at the baggage level. Covered walkways take guests from the hotel directly to Rocket Mortgage Field House and Progressive Field for sporting events and concerts. The hotel is an easy 10- to 15-minute walk to either.
What to see and do in Cleveland
Photo: Erik Drost
My whirlwind visit to Cleveland had me taking in the legendary Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the fabled Cleveland Museum of Art, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, Westside Market, Karamu House, and the Gateway Entertainment District. From Hotel Cleveland, each is either a short Uber ride away or within walking distance.
You Can Fly From NYC to Athens for $200 This Fall on This New Budget Airline Route
This summer, travelers from the US will be able to reach Greece, easily and for a decent price on a new nonstop flight from New York to Athens with Norse Atlantic Airways. The airline’s inaugural route provides a convenient, budget-friendly, and direct connection between major cities.
Flights will operate up to five times a week from JFK throughout the summer season on Norse Atlantic’s modern Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
Norse Atlantic is known for its low-cost, long-haul flights. It offers a range of fares, including Light, Classic, and Flextra, the latter of which includes a generous baggage allowance, full meal service, and ticket flexibility. Passengers can also choose between two cabin options: standard economy and Norse Premium, which offers increased legroom and a more spacious seating experience.
The introduction of this route is excellent news for both JFK and Athens Airport and passengers looking for an affordable way to vacation in Europe.
Speaking on behalf of Athens International Airport, Ioanna Papadopoulou, director of communications and marketing, says, “We are thrilled with the launch of this new direct service connecting AIA and JFK, and we extend our warmest welcome to Norse Atlantic Airways, an exciting new member of the Athens International Airport family.”
Opting for a budget-friendly fare with Norse Atlantic will free up spending money, and the direct flight to Athens is ideal for exploring the rest of Greece. The country’s excellent ferry system and domestic flights connect the city to countless islands, including the stunning beaches of Santorini and the medieval streets of Rhodes.
This Airline’s New Flights Are the Only Way to Fly Directly From the US to Madeira
Azores Airlines, a Portuguese airline based in the city of Punta Delgada in the Azores archipelago, is the only airline in the world to offer direct flights between the US and Madeira.
Madeira is one of two inhabited islands that make up the Portuguese archipelago of Madeira Islands, the other one being Porto Santo. Madeira is located in the Atlantic Ocean, well off the European coast, and closer to Morocco than mainland Portugal. The island of Madeira is relatively small being 34-mile long and 14-mile wide, but with 90 miles of beautiful coastline and a mountainous terrain and lush vegetation (everything grows there, from wine grapes to bananas), it’s an appealing destination for those looking for a tropical and lesser-known island escape in Europe.
The capital of Madeira, Funchal, is home to the archipelago’s main airport which now welcomes regular Azores Airlines seasonal flights from two cities in the US: New York and Boston.
Since March 21, 2024, and until October 21, 2024, there has been one direct flight per week from New York to Funchal and from Funchal to New York.
From June 4, 2024, and until September 25, 2024, there will be one direct flight per week from Boston to Funchal, and from Funchal to Boston.
Flights between New York and Funchal, and between Boston and Funchal, take around six hours.
Because there is only one flight per week each way from and to those airports, you’ll need to make sure you don’t miss your flight or you’ll have to push your trip for another seven days, or have to reroute through mainland Europe.
Azores Airlines also offers direct flights between the US and the cities of Lisbon and Porto, both in mainland Portugal, as well as between the US and the cities of Punta Delgada and Terceira, both of which are located in the Azores archipelago. The Azores archipelago is another remote tropical cluster of islands belonging to Portugal located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
June 4, 2024
Flying With Kids on United? You’ll Want to Ask For This Children’s Travel Kit
There are few challenges like keeping a child occupied during a flight. Even the most easy going child will likely need multiple distractions to stay entertained on a flight of any real distance, and parents can only carry so many activities onboard with them. On certain United flights, one thing can be added to the arsenal of toys without taking up bag space: the airline’s Children’s Travel Kit created in partnership with Sesame Workshop.
United planes started carrying the kits in 2023 following United’s announcement of its “Chief Trash Officer,” Oscar the Grouch, done to the use of sustainable airline fuel that’s made with waste materials. The activity book has coloring pages, mazes, connect-the-dots, and more featuring Oscar, and the puzzle is Oscar-themed as well. A sensory calming strip with a textured surface for anxious kiddos is also included (the first United States-based carrier to offer one).
It may sound like a small amenity, but then again, myself and other parents already know that something as simple as a piece of painter’s tape can easily kill time in the air. Not every flight is outfitted with the kits (United says to ask the flight attendant) so it’s not something to rely on 100 percent of the time. United’s other features to help families travel easier, like free kids’ meals and a family seating policy, are though.
As someone who has a daughter on track for 20 flights before two, I’m always on the hunt for in-flight distractions and carry things like a Buddha Board with me wherever we go. Most “travel hacks” are nothing more than pointing out things that should be common sense. This tip, however, is something that I’ll be asking my United crew about flight after flight.
More like thisTravelThese Comfortable, Discrete Earplugs Turn the Noise Down on Loudest Parts of TravelingWhere to Eat, Stay, and Play in Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca, off the coast of Spain, is an enormously popular island getaway. Though it’s feeling the impacts of overtourism, there are always ways to enjoy the island responsibly — and Mallorca’s many quiet corners offer a far more authentic taste of Mallorcan living than tourist resort towns like Magaluf, anyway.
Mallorca, also spelled Majorca, is in the Balearic Islands, the best-known of which is Ibiza. But the best way to visit the islands is to leave the party cliches of Ibiza behind and look for character, charm, and culture in smaller towns. And you’ll find plenty of all three in abundance on Mallorca. Travelers curious enough to scratch beneath the surface will not only enjoy sun, sea, and sand, but also be able to discover what distinguishes Mallorca from other islands in the Mediterranean.
Photo: Marina Kryuchina/Shutterstock
Mallorca is dominated by the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site stretching majestically along the northwest coast. The eastern side of the island holds the Serres de Llevant hills, known for their intricate cave systems carved from limestone. Central Mallorca is a vast and fertile plain teeming with olive groves, almond trees, and citrus fruits. And the island’s 350 miles of coastline have dramatic cliffs and secluded coves to the north, while the south boasts long stretches of pristine white-sand beaches and calm water.
Most visitors to Mallorca stay in the popular tourist cities of Palma, Alcúdia, Magaluf, or Sóller. There are plenty of opulent accommodations throughout Mallorca, but those cities will offer the largest variety of price points and levels of luxury.
Jump to:The best time to visitGetting there and aroundWhat to do in Mallorca, SpainThe best restaurants on the islandWhere to stay in MallorcaThe best time to visit Mallorca, Spain
Photo: Cristian M Balate/Shutterstock
Generally, the best times to visit are spring and fall. The height of summer is not for the fainthearted, as the sweltering heat can be unforgiving. Exceptionally mild winters mean that while the temperatures might not be warm enough for serious swimming or sunbathing – and you’re highly unlikely to leap into a hotel pool in mid-December – but you can definitely enjoy a cultural break with some indoor attractions in winter.
Highs in December average at around 61 degrees Fahrenheit. But the chillier season also means lodging bargains (aside from during Christmas holidays), with prices dramatically slashed with those willing to forego summertime. Fortunately, there are festivals, events, and tourist draws available all year.
How to get there and around
From the USA, direct flights are few and far between. United Airlines operates a non-stop service from New York/Newark three times per week. Otherwise, most travelers will need to connect in cities such as Madrid, London, Zurich, Copenhagen or Frankfurt. Alternatively, you can fly to a major European city, then book a separate flight through a budget airline such as RyanAir, often for under $50.
Once you’ve touched down at the Mallorca, Spain, international airport, it’s seamless and easy to get into town. The airport is just a 12-minute drive from the bustling city of Palma de Mallorca (home of the famous Cathedral of Light), a 35-minute drive to coastal beauty Port de Sóller, or a 40-minute drive from idyllic Deià. There are usually taxis at the airport, though you can also rent a car when you land (or have your hotel arrange an airport pick-up).
The only international airport is Palma, so no matter where you stay on the island, your trip will need to start and end there.
What To Do In MallorcaWhile relaxing on a beach, sailing, and hiking and cycling adventures are all top attractions in Mallorca, there are many other possibilities, too.
Explore Deià
Photo: vulcano/Shutterstock
The village of Deià is indisputably one of the most scenic villages on the island, with hilltop coastal views so dreamy that they resemble a watercolor painting.
There’s a slow and languid pace to life everywhere in the village, and although it has its fair share of celebrity residents (the famous composer Andrew Lloyd Webber has a part-time home there), it’s more about rural charm than conspicuous glitz and glam. Like the nearby town of Valdemossa, the picturesque surroundings have inspired many an artist, while the likes of Jimi Hendrix, the Rolling Stones and David Bowie all spent time here in the past to work on their craft away from the peeking eyes of the paparazzi.
An essential stop should be the grounds of Belmond’s ultra-fancy La Residencia Hotel. The sprawling gardens are a botanical paradise, and you can stop in for a cocktail or mocktail before taking a stroll through the grounds. From there, you can wander through the picture-perfect streets, keeping your eyes peeled for exhibitions where you can purchase original pieces from local artists and wandering into one the many boutique shops. There’s also a small archaeological museum (open Tuesday and Thursday), as well as a museum in the former home of poet Robert Graves.
Further afield, hopping on a boat from Deià to the Sa Foradada viewpoint is a luxe experience, and Maksy Boats can help arrange charters for quick trips or all-day coastal tours. The viewpoint’s eponymous clifftop restaurant offers spectacular sea views and woodfire-cooked paella (advance reservations strongly recommended), while the viewpoint is perfect for relaxed outdoor sunsets. If you don’t take a boat, there’s a two-mile (each way) coastal hike to the same point — just remember you’ll have to hike back up later.
Elsewhere, Cala Deià is an idyllic beach worth the visit, thanks to its clear turquoise waters and serene rock pools in an exceptionally picturesque cove, even by Mallorcan standards. Later, if evening is approaching, Nama is a great place for a sunset cocktail with two large terraces overlooking a sprawling canyon, including one for adults only.
Explore Parc Nacional de Cabrera
Photo: skipperernst/Shutterstock
Cabrera National Park is a collection of islands south of Mallorca. You can get there from Ses Salines via Mar Cabrera Boat Excursions. You can book just transportation for about 40 Euro, or opt for one of several more extensive tours. The ride each way takes only about 30 minutes.
Within the park, you can visit the famous Blue Cave (Sa Cova Blava), explore one of seven hiking trails, or go scuba diving or snorkeling. Back in Ses Salines, birdwatching is popular thanks to the nearby salt flats, and the town’s Es Trenc Beach is always popular, with beach gear rentals and a few nearby affordable beach bars.
Visit a museum for Mallorca’s greatest sports legend
Photo: neme_jimenez/Shutterstock
Fans of pro tennis, or just sports legends in general, can head to the Rafael Nadal Museum. In addition to in-depth exhibitions about his life and career, superfans can catch a glimpse of trophies and other notable memorabilia, and there’s even interactive space with VR simulators on tennis and other sports. Visitors to Mallorca who want to hit the real-world tennis courts can attend single-day clinics at Nadal’s tennis center in Manacor.
If you’re not up for breaking a sweat on vacation (or aren’t in Manacor), head to nearby Sa Punta Restaurant in Cala Bona. It’s owned by the Nadal family, and Rafael’s piano-playing grandfather has been known to join in with live music sessions in the past.
Take an adventurous trip to a hidden beach
Photo: KVN1777/Shutterstock
The two beaches of Sa Calobra, on the northwestern side of Mallorca, enjoy a stunning setting among steep and rocky cliffs, plus an impressive gorge. But the road to get there isn’t for the fainthearted. With no fewer than 26 suspenseful hairpin bends, it’s one of the most dramatic driving roads in Europe, with jaw-dropping views nearly the entire time.
Its never-ending, myriad twists and turns is seductive for the brave, but anyone not courageous enough to drive, cycle, or hike the route themselves can also find other ways to get there. Visitors to Mallorca, Spain, can catch a passenger boat from the coastal village of Port de Sóller and arrive at the same scenic viewpoint. The trip takes about an hour each way and costs 30 Euros; you can make reservations in advance via the boat operator’s website.
The two popular beaches are called Cala Sa Calobra and Torrent de Pareis; the latter requires a very short hike to reach. Both have opportunities for snorkeling, but you’ll need to bring all your own gear (as well as towels and chairs) as there are no services in the vicinity. Barefoot revelers should be vigilant for occasional jellyfish appearances, generally in the height of summer. But the crystal clear water and gorgeous landscapes make it worth the small risk.
Have an agro-tourism experience in the country
Photo: Lapa Smile/Shutterstock
Whether because of the TV show “The Simple Life,” the growing knowledge of farm-to-table cuisine, or the efforts around the world to buy local and reduce one’s carbon footprint, farm tourism is growing. Much of the non-coastal part of the island is farmland, and major exports include oranges and lemons, almonds, and olives. Many farms run farm stay hotels, allowing guests to have rural experiences ranging from hands-on farming to luxurious tasting dinners. Options range from the pricey Richard Branson-owned Son Bunyola to the more budget-friendly Agroturisme Son Pons.
But don’t feel that you’re limited to staying in a specific residence to enjoy what agrotourism has to offer. Eco Vinyasa near Sóller runs guided tours of its orange farm with a focus on the history and production of the crop on the island, and nearby Can Det offers free and paid visits focused on olive oil production; the paid visits come with a guided olive oil tasting.
One location worth a visit is Artestruz, a working ostrich farm deep in the Campos countryside that offers guests the novel opportunity to feed and pet ostriches. No reservations are needed, and there’s also an on-site shop selling ostrich-related goods.
Where To Eat in MallorcaMallorca is full of inspiration for foodies, with the island’s capital, Palma, representing the best of the best. The olive oil is arguably better there than anywhere in the country, while seafood dishes (including succulent Sóller prawns with black rice), are irresistibly tasty. Whether shopping at Palma’s famous produce market (Mercat Olivar), trying out coca mallorquina (a pizza-style flatbread topped with fresh veggies) at a bakery or stall, or indulging your tastebuds at the island’s many restaurants and cafes, there are endless tasting opportunities. Meanwhile, the local Malvasia white wine is unmissable.
El Olivo, DeiàView this post on Instagram
A post shared by La Residencia (@belmondlaresidencia)
Even if your budget doesn’t stretch to spending the night at the Belmond in Deià, its restaurants are unmissable. The gardens are full of chirping birds and have pathways lined with bright-red roses, and in the distance are skyline views of the town – and that’s before even getting to the food. El Olivio is the signature (and most expensive) restaurant, with a pricey six- or 12-course tasting menu up for grabs. Also available is the Tramuntana Grill (known for locally caught prawns and olive oil made on site) and Restaurant Miro, with live music every evening between 7:30 and 10:30 PM. All three are very highly rated.
Belmond La Residencia: Carrer son Canals, 07179 Deià, Illes Balears, Spain
Sa Terrassa, Cala PiView this post on Instagram
A post shared by Son Bunyola (@sonbunyola)
A car is essential to visit Sa Terrassa, the gorgeous restaurant inside the luxurious Son Bunyola resort. It’s far from the tourist crowds and offers a look at the less-visited side of Mallorca in a blissfully remote corner of the Tramuntana mountains. All restaurants have a farm-to-fork ethos and use plenty of home-grown own produce, from olives to almonds to oranges.
The deliciously tender, melt-in-the-mouth squid and octopus dish on the starter menu is almost substantial enough to be a main course, and is highly recommended.
Meanwhile, the nearest village, Banyalbufar, is known as one of the last remaining authentic coastal villages on the entire island, with a local feel and a total absence of tourist traps. Cala Pi is one of the prettiest natural coves on Mallorca, too.
Restaurante Sa Terrassa: Passeig de Cala Pi, 2, 07639 Cala Pi, Illes Balears, Spain
Cap Roig Brasserie, Port de SóllerView this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa (@jumeirahportsoller)
Cap Roig Brasserie is all about feasting your eyes on the Mediterranean Sea while filling your stomach with food sourced directly from it. The expansive clifftop terrace offers sweeping views of the waves and swaying trees below. This is a seafood-lover’s paradise, providing everything from mussels paired with champagne to grilled octopus or clams – and, of course, an extra-fresh daily catch. One famous dish on the menu is tuna tartar, caviar, crispy rice, and seaweed.
For many dishes, you’ll choose between having your fish cooked in a charcoal oven, or heated over a clay tile with an infusion of taste bud-tickling salt and herbs.
Cap Roig Brasserie: Hotel & Spa, Jumeirah, Carrer de Bèlgica, S/N, 07108 Port de Sóller, Balearic Islands, Spain
Maca de Castro, AlcúdiaView this post on Instagram
A post shared by Maca de Castro (@maca_de_castro)
Although Port d’Alcudia boasts the longest stretch of beach in all of Mallorca, that’s far from the only reason to venture to this part of the island. The iconic Maca de Castro is led by the eponymous Macarena de Castro, the first female chef on the island to receive a Michelin star. That was in 2012, but she’s retained it every year since. It’s open only in the summer, as the chef travels to Uruguay every winter. It’s on a quiet street, on the first floor of a villa-style building, and feels a million miles from the tourist trail. Frequented by plenty of locals, it’s instantly obvious why this place, which treats every plate as an art form, has captured islanders’ hearts.
Maca de Castro: Carrer de Juno, s/n, 07400 Alcúdia, Illes Balears, Spain
Where to stay in Mallorca, SpainTravelers are spoiled for choice in Mallorca, with accommodation options ranging from converted medieval fortresses to ancient fincas (farms) where most, if not all, of the food is sourced locally. Deià, Palma, and Port Sóller are among the top areas for show-stopping views, but with so much natural beauty, finding an undesirable area to stay is virtually impossible. The idyllic island location can mean high prices, but there’s something for every budget. And you’re still likely to get more for your buck than at an equally luxurious hotel in a pricier destination like Hawaii or the Amalfi Coast.
We hope you love the spaces and stays 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.
A unique Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Mallorca is struggling with overtourism, which makes Airbnb a more complicated issue (as it is everywhere). However, renting an Airbnb in a smaller town brings more spending and tourist action to lesser-visited destinations and helps spread out the crowds, which is a very good thing. Some of the rentals in Mallorca, Spain, are downright gorgeous, from sprawling fincas with private pools and hottubs to artsy apartments inside historic stone buildings.
Matador rounded up 11 of the prettiest Airbnbs across the island.
Boutique Hotel Posada Terra Santa
Photo: Booking.com
For a charming stay in the heart of downtown Palma, it’s hard to beat Hotel Posada Terra Santa. It’s walkable to everything in Palma but tucked down a street that doesn’t get much noise, with an on-site bar and restaurant and rooftop pool. It’s in a historic building from the 16th century and blends traditional features with modern luxury. It’s a good pick for couples looking to up the romance. Rooms start around $240 per night in winter but can be twice as much in the summer.
Posada Terra Santa: Carrer de la Posada de Terra Santa, 5, Centre, 07001 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
Book NowCan Simoneta Hotel
Photo: Booking.com
Can Simoneta is an adults-only clifftop resort directly on stunning Canyamel Beach, on the island’s east coast, near the town of Artà. It has huge private gardens, lots of outdoor space, and large rooms with lots of light. Rates start around $450 per night.
Can Simoneta: Finca Torre Canyamel, Carretera Arta-Canyamel, km 8, 07580 Canyamel, Illes Balears, Spain
The World’s First Urban Via Ferrata Takes You High Above Columbus, Ohio
Urban climbing typically means little more than bouldering on small rocks in city parks. Columbus, Ohio, has redefined the concept with the world’s first large-scale via ferrata, now open in Quarry Trails park in the northwest part of the city. The route first opened in 2021 as part of the larger Quarry Trails area that also includes hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and other outdoor opportunities – all within the Columbus metro area.
The Quarry Trails via ferrata – Italian for “iron way” – offers a unique blend of exhilarating heights and challenging climbs. You’ll traverse metal rungs, ladders, and cables, all while secured to a safety line. Be prepared to exert yourself – climbing the course is good exercise – but know that the guides will ensure your safety and the provided equipment will keep you comfortable. It’s a great way to experience a taste of rock climbing in a secured environment while rewarded with incredible scenery.
What to know about the Quarry Trails via ferrata
Photo courtesy Experience Columbus
Photo courtesy Experience ColumbusIf you’ve never climbed a via ferrata route, it’s effectively “rock climbing lite.” Climbers traverse and ascend the fixed course routed by a steel cable, climbing up ladders, rungs, and rock while fastened to the cable via carabiners and a harness. The Quarry Trails via ferrata course leads climbers across 1,040 feet of course over what MetroParks, which operates the via ferrata, describes as “intermediate rocky terrain.” Highlights of the climb include a 54-foot steel staircase that will put your bootwork to the test and a 90-foot-long suspension bridge that you’ll use legs and hands to climb across while fastened into the course route.
MetroParks notes that it takes most users about 90 minutes to climb the course. Keep in mind that once you’re at the top you must climb back down – though this process is much faster and quite fun. You must register in advance and will be led by a guide up the climb, though registration is currently free. Kids over 14 are welcome, as long as they’re at least five feet tall and weigh 88 pounds or more.
Photo courtesy Experience Columbus
At points during the climb, you’ll be more than 100 feet above the ground below – and there’s also the bridge crossing over a scenic pond. All climbers will be outfitted with a helmet, harness, and any needed safety equipment. You should bring your own sunglasses and gloves, as the cable and bridge are better handled by protected hands. There’s no better way to feel like you’re high in the alpine when you’re actually in central Ohio.
June 3, 2024
5 Alternatives to the US’s ‘most Picturesque’ Lake
A new study of Instagram hashtags claims to have found the most picturesque lakes North America — but the conclusions aren’t very scientific.
Home booking website Lake.com studied Instagram hashtags across the platform and found which lakes were hashtagged the most. The report, released in late May 2024, says that those with the most-used hashtags are “the most picturesque lakes in North America.” The top spot went to Lake Tahoe, on the border of California and Nevada, followed by four of the five Great Lakes: Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, Lake Ontario, and Lake Erie. (Lake Huron ranked 10th on the list.)
While it’s fun to look at “Top 10” lists, they’re not usually more entertainment than fact. No one can deny that Lake Tahoe is beautiful, but a lake being tagged the most on Instagram doesn’t mean it’s the “most picturesque.” It could mean it’s accessible and easy to photograph, that it’s in a popular spot where people vacation, that there was a successful marketing campaign to push for visitors to use a social media tag, that the name is easy to spell and use as a hashtag, or any of hundreds of other factors that could explain why someone uses a hashtag.
Photo: Lars Bentrup/Shutterstock
Lake Tahoe’s small towns and resorts have struggled with overtourism and crowds in recent years, so if anything, the fact that it’s the most-tagged lake on Instagram could just be further proof that it’s sometimes too crowded. Lake Tahoe clean-up efforts have found thousands of pounds of trash below the surface (among other unexpected items), and ski traffic can shut down roads for hours on busy winter weekends.
That means when you visit Lake Tahoe, you’re unlikely to be the only person taking pictures. #LakeTahoe didn’t rack up more than three million uses for nothing, after all. The towns around the lake rely on tourism, so it’s not to say you shouldn’t go, but you should consider how some of your travel choices could impact both your vacation experience and the people who live there.
If you’re planning a winter trip, you could ski midweek and plan a less-crowded winter adventure on a weekend, or you could base yourself in nearby (but much more peaceful) Hope Valley, and just do a day trip or two to Lake Tahoe. And to save a few bucks on a summer trip, you could stay in nearby Reno, Nevada (about 25 minutes from the lake’s north shore) and do day trips to little-known attractions like hot springs and sprawling deserts.
But maybe the best solution is to spend some of your time at a different Sierra Nevada lake, instead of just Lake Tahoe. There are plenty that are beautiful but not as crowded on summer weekends. Lake Tahoe may be the largest alpine lake in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, but fortunately, it’s not the only one. The Sierra Nevada Network protects roughly 1,200 alpine lakes, but it’s estimated that there are at least 4,000 in the 400-mile-long range. Here are five to check out close to Lake Tahoe.
Convict Lake
Photo: Reiner in CA/Shutterstock
Convict Lake rarely has much in the way of crowds, probably because it’s overshadowed by its more well-known neighbors, including Tahoe to the north and Mammoth Lakes to the south. But it’s a serene escape, with blue water that reflects the imposing edifice of Mount Morrison. Despite its name, inspired by a 19th-century shootout with escaped convicts, tranquility reigns supreme there. Hikers will find it to be an excellent base camp for trails like the easy Convict Lake Loop (2.5 miles, 180-foot gain) and the more difficult Convict Creek Trail to Mildred Lake (9.5 miles, 2,300-foot gain).
If fishing is your thing, there’s always plenty of shoreline available for anglers to catch rainbow and brown trout in the crystal-clear depths. You can get your fishing license at nearby Convict Lake Resort, which also operates boat rentals and guided horseback riding tours. There’s lots of bouldering nearby if rock climbing is your summer sport of choice, and with the dramatic peaks of the Sierra Nevada as your backdrop, you’re unlikely to ever have a bad sunset. It’s a more rugged beauty than Lake Tahoe, and really shows off the majesty of the eastern side of the mountain range.
Mono LakePhoto: Luc Rousseau/Shutterstock
Mono (rhymes with “Oh No”) Lake is about two hours south of Lake Tahoe and isn’t your typical mountain lake. It’s a truly otherworldly landscape, with craggy tufa towers jutting from the glassy water. (They’re the remnants of volcanic eruptions). Despite its stark beauty, often described as lunar or moon-like, Mono Lake offers a tranquility absent from its more mainstream counterparts.
Photographers flock to Mono Lake (well, as much as anyone flocks to Mono Lake) for sunrise photo sessions, and campers can almost always find sites at the many nearby campgrounds. The salty water makes it oddly buoyant and a fun place for a swim, and nearby Bodie State Historic Park is one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the world. Hikers will have access to a plethora trails, from those in nearby towns like Lee Vining and Bridgeport to many of the less-crowded Yosemite National Park hikes off nearby Tioga Pass Road.
Stampede Reservoir
Photo: kenkistler/Shutterstock
If you want an easy place to access water near Tahoe without the crowds, then nearby Stampede Reservoir is a great Lake Tahoe alternative. It’s north of Truckee, CA, about a 40-minute drive from the north shore. While it may not be ringed by mountain peaks thousands of feet tall, it’s easy to access, has plenty of waterfront campgrounds around the south shore, and has calm water and easy entrances and exits for paddling or kayaking. It’s often impossible to find somewhere to park near Lake Tahoe to put in a kayak in the summer, but that’s never a problem at Stampede.
Stampede Reservoir’s short distance from the highway makes it an easy spot for a quick, last-minute lakeside camping trip. It’s also a great day trip from nearby Reno if you just want to chill at a lake for a day, especially if you have kids or pets you may not want playing near the busier roads and parking lots by Tahoe.
Lakes Basin Recreation Area
Upper Sardine Lake. Photo: Craig Cooper/Shutterstock
Plumas National Forest and the Lakes Basin Recreation Area embody the secluded charm of the Lost Sierra — the region of the Sierra Nevada north of Lake Tahoe known for being less developed and have a more remote feeling. Gold Lake is embraced by rolling hills rather than soaring peaks, and nearby Sardine Lakes look up at gorgeous ridgelines and offer everything from lakeside cabins to gold panning and hiking. The region lacks basically all of the noise, crowds, or traffic jams of more popular neighbors to the south, like Lake Tahoe or nearby Donner Lake.
The Lakes Basin Recreation Area is close to some of the most famous long-distance mountain biking trails in California, like Downieville and Mills Peak. There are dozens of gorgeous and lush hiking trails nearby (many of which will soon be developed into the 600-mile Lost Sierra Trail), and more small B&Bs, charming general stores, and quaint Mom-and-Pop restaurants, bakeries, and ice cream stands within a short drive than you could ever fit into one trip.
Gold Lake Lodge has a handful of rentable cabins, as well as rustic (but furnished) canvas tents, or you can stay in the charming, old-timey town of Graeagle, CA, about 15 minutes north of Gold Lake. You can camp at Sardine Lake Campground or stay in cabins at Sardine Lakes Resort.
Thousand Island Lake
Photo: Sean McKey/Shutterstock
For something a bit more adventurous, a good Lake Tahoe alternative is Thousand Island Lake, in the Ansel Adams Wilderness between Tahoe and Yosemite. It’s one of the most popular backpacking trips in the Sierra Nevada.
Unlike Tahoe, which is dotted with beaches, resorts, and restaurants, Thousand Island is basically untouched, so camping is your only option if you want to stay overnight. If that’s the plan, the camping window is between roughly June and October depending on snow, and you’ll need to get a camping reservation in advance online. The few designated spots fill up quickly, so plan as far in advance as possible. You cannot camp in the Ansel Adams Wilderness without a permit.
The turquoise waters, cradled by the dramatic Ritter Range, shimmer with sunlight during the day and vivid sunsets at night. The main activity is hiking, either as an overnight trip or a long day trip via the Rush Creek Trailhead. During the day, you can swim, relax on the shoreline, hike up to backcountry ski lines, or just enjoy the wildflowers and waterfalls along the way up.
If you’re able to score a camp permit, make sure to follow Leave No Trace principles, carry a bear bin, and observe all campfire and fire bans.
The First 3D-Printed Hotel Will Break Ground in Texas This Year
An accommodations industry visionary is pushing the West Texas town of Marfa to the forefront of American hospitality. Liz Lambert, owner of the part-hotel, part-campground, full-on unique lodging property El Cosmico, will break ground on the world’s first 3D-printed hotel property in Marfa later this year. The idea, Lambert told Matador, is to reimagine what El Cosmico can be and embrace both the stunning desert surroundings and cutting-edge architectural design. The 3D-printed additions to El Cosmico will be split between a collection of 3D-printed homes, known as the Sunday Homes, and a conjoined property more closely resembling a hotel.
“. . . as we understand it this will be the first 3D printed hotel in the world,” Lambert says. “The plan to print the Sunday Homes and the new dwellings at El Cosmico came from my work with Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) on another project. They introduced me to Jason Ballard, the CEO and Co-founder of ICON, a company that is radically innovating how we build with Robotics and AI technology. Bjarke said that as two innovators in Texas, we should really be friends. He was totally right, and now we’re working with both ICON and BIG to bring this next evolution of El Cosmico to life together. It’s a project so near to my heart, and I’m lucky to work with these visionaries and their incredible teams.”
The inspiration behind a 3D-printed hotel comes from nature itself
Photo courtesy ICON
Photo courtesy ICON
Photo courtesy ICONAt its core, 3D printing is a process of creating three-dimensional objects from a digital file. In the case of El Cosmico, that digital file is an architects’ rendering of the property complete with design and materials specs. The 3D printer lays down material layer by layer until the entire property is complete. This allows for the creation of complex shapes that would be difficult or impossible to make using traditional manufacturing techniques, and in many cases, it’s faster and cheaper than traditional construction.
“The design of the Sunday Homes is an exploration of the capabilities of large scale 3D printing, which really upends the building that is possible with wood-framed structures,” Lambert saya “Curved walls, domes, parabolas, and patterns in the print can be made with relative ease. We really looked to nature and the cosmos for design direction.”
That’s no surprise given Lambert’s background as a routine-busting hotelier based in Austin. She grew up in West Texas and opened the “bohemian nomadic” El Cosmico on a 21-acre plot of land outside Marfa 2009, and will move it to a separate plot for its new incarnation. The vibe is distinctly West Texan, yet it hones in on an often-overlooked aspect of the region often – it’s an artist’s haven, attracting visionaries and free-spirited types year-round. This was established when the acclaimed artist Donald Judd opened The Chinati Foundation in Marfa as a museum to house large works of art — and an art scene ensued that has drawn wayward creatives to the town ever since.
“The Sunday Homes are part of the larger reimagining of El Cosmico,” Lambert says. “We’ll move to a 60 acre plot of land on the edge of town, overlooking the stunning Davis Mountains. We’ll bring most of our existing ‘hotel rooms’ – the trailers, tents and other nomadic accommodations – from the existing location, and we’ll be adding some 3D printed hotel accommodations in addition to the Sunday Homes.”
Photo courtesy ICON
Amenities will include hot tubs, exterior seating areas with shade and killer views of the sunset, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. The place is designed to have communal vibes, encouraging conversation and inspiration. The plan is that the current El Cosmico site will be developed into affordable housing once the hotel has moved over to the new site.
El Cosmico also runs El Cosmico Provisions Co. to make its services to travelers full-circle. Guests can pick up t-shirts, outdoor gear, and other apparel under the El Cosmico branding to sport on the trail and when back home. The brand also sells apothecary and home goods as well as food and beverage products.
“When we first opened El Cosmico in 2009, there weren’t as many stores and shops as there are today,” says Lambert, who masterminded behind the Sunday Homes with the help of Icon Build and architecture design firm Bjarke Ingels Group. “A lot of our guests are coming through El Cosmico on their way to other destinations in Big Bend, Mexico, and elsewhere, and we wanted to have a place where guests of the hotel and passers-through could get interesting and useful supplies for their adventures. And, if we’re being honest, we love a good souvenir so we were excited to create our own line of things that reflect the El Cosmico ethos and aesthetic that people could take away with them.”
How to book the Sunday Homes at El Cosmico (and the property’s other nomadic lodging)
Photo courtesy ICON
Photo courtesy ICONThe Sunday Homes will be small-to-mid-size homes available for sale. To book the 3D-printed hotel (once its open) or any of the existing lodging options, visit the El Cosmico website. The space – a far more fitting term than labeling it a “hotel” or a “campground” or anything in between – can host events large and small, and is a great place to base yourself for outdoor adventure in Big Bend National Park and beyond.
“Purchasing a Sunday Home is the best way to have a full immersive and beautiful experience at El Cosmico year round,” Lambert says. “The hotel will have short-term hospitality accommodations and amenities for travelers.”
Lambert just hopes people passing through will stay long enough to fall in love with the area.
“I mean, ideally we think that people should stay as long as they can to fully experience the downshift in pace from city life, the vast expanse of land and the epic night skies,” she says. “It can take a while to get into the mañana mindset. There’s a lot to do, from seeing world class art to visiting a desert cactus museum, but we are firm believers that doing nothing is also a really important part of the experience of El Cosmico.”
The First 3D-Printed Hotel Is Opening in Texas Later This Year
An accommodations industry visionary is pushing the West Texas town of Marfa to the forefront of American hospitality. Liz Lambert, owner of the part-hotel, part-campground, full-on unique lodging property El Cosmico, will open the world’s first 3D-printed hotel property in Marfa later this year. The idea, Lambert told Matador, is to reimagine what El Cosmico can be and embrace both the stunning desert surroundings and cutting-edge architectural design. The 3D-printed additions to El Cosmico will be split between a collection of 3D-printed home-style accommodations, known as the Sunday Homes, and a conjoined property more closely resembling a hotel.
“. . . as we understand it this will be the first 3D printed hotel in the world,” Lambert says. “The plan to print the Sunday Homes and the new dwellings at El Cosmico came from my work with Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) on another project. They introduced me to Jason Ballard, the CEO and Co-founder of ICON, a company that is radically innovating how we build with Robotics and AI technology. Bjarke said that as two innovators in Texas, we should really be friends. He was totally right, and now we’re working with both ICON and BIG to bring this next evolution of El Cosmico to life together. It’s a project so near to my heart, and I’m lucky to work with these visionaries and their incredible teams.”
The inspiration behind a 3D-printed hotel comes from nature itselfPhoto courtesy ICONPhoto courtesy ICONPhoto courtesy ICONAt its core, 3D printing is a process of creating three-dimensional objects from a digital file. In the case of El Cosmico, that digital file is an architects’ rendering of the property complete with design and materials specs. The 3D printer lays down material layer by layer until the entire property is complete. This allows for the creation of complex shapes that would be difficult or impossible to make using traditional manufacturing techniques, and in many cases, it’s faster and cheaper than traditional construction.
“The design of the Sunday Homes is an exploration of the capabilities of large scale 3D printing, which really upends the building that is possible with wood-framed structures,” Lambert saya “Curved walls, domes, parabolas, and patterns in the print can be made with relative ease. We really looked to nature and the cosmos for design direction.”
That’s no surprise given Lambert’s background as a routine-busting hotelier based in Austin. She grew up in West Texas and opened the “bohemian nomadic” El Cosmico on a 21-acre plot of land outside Marfa 2009, and moved it to a separate plot for this latest incarnation. The vibe is distinctly West Texan, yet it hones in on an often-overlooked aspect of the region often – it’s an artist’s haven, attracting visionaries and free-spirited types year-round. This began in 1986 when the acclaimed artist Donald Judd opened The Chinati Foundation in Marfa as a museum to house large works of art — and an art scene ensued that has drawn wayward creatives to the town ever since.
“The Sunday Homes are part of the larger reimagining of El Cosmico,” Lambert says. “We’ll move to a 60 acre plot of land on the edge of town, overlooking the stunning Davis Mountains. We’ll bring most of our existing ‘hotel rooms’ – the trailers, tents and other nomadic accommodations – from the existing location, and we’ll be adding some 3D printed hotel accommodations in addition to the Sunday Homes.”
Photo courtesy ICON
Amenities will include hot tubs, exterior seating areas with shade and killer views of the sunset, a swimming pool, and . The place is designed to have communal vibes, encouraging conversation and inspiration.
El Cosmico also runs an apparel line, El Cosmico Provisons Co., to make its services to travelers full-circle. Guests can pick up t-shirts, outdoor gear, and other apparel under the El Cosmico branding to sport on the trail and when back home.
“When we first opened El Cosmico in 2009, there weren’t as many stores and shops as there are today,” says Lambert, who masterminded behind the Sunday Homes with the help of Icon Build and architecture design firm Bjarke Ingels Group. “A lot of our guests are coming through El Cosmico on their way to other destinations in Big Bend, Mexico, and elsewhere, and we wanted to have a place where guests of the hotel and passers-through could get interesting and useful supplies for their adventures. And, if we’re being honest, we love a good souvenir so we were excited to create our own line of things that reflect the El Cosmico ethos and aesthetic that people could take away with them.”
How to book the Sunday Homes at El Cosmico (and the property’s other nomadic lodging)Photo courtesy ICONPhoto courtesy ICONThe Sunday Homes will be small-to-mid-size homes. Some will be for sale and others will remain available for short-term stays. To book, visit the El Cosmico website. The space – a far more fitting term than labeling it a “hotel” or a “campground” or anything in between – can host events large and small, and is a great place to base yourself for outdoor adventure in Big Bend National Park and beyond. Lambert hopes staff and residents in Marfa, where the average cost of a home far outpaces the average household’s ability to purchase, can find solace in the community alongside the guests.
“Purchasing a Sunday Home is the best way to have a full immersive and beautiful experience at El Cosmico year round,” Lambert says. “The hotel will have short-term hospitality accommodations and amenities for travelers.”
Lambert just hopes people passing through will stay long enough to fall in love with the area.
“I mean, ideally we think that people should stay as long as they can to fully experience the downshift in pace from city life, the vast expanse of land and the epic night skies,” she says. “It can take a while to get into the mañana mindset. There’s a lot to do, from seeing world class art to visiting a desert cactus museum, but we are firm believers that doing nothing is also a really important part of the experience of El Cosmico.”
Matador Network's Blog
- Matador Network's profile
- 6 followers
