Matador Network's Blog, page 162
June 1, 2024
4 Under-the-Radar National Parks Worth the Drive This Summer
Exploring America’s national parks should feel akin to a safari: windows-down scenic drives, wildlife-rich hikes, and plenty of time spent in nature. But at popular parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite, where summer visitors number in the millions, it can mean the opposite: queueing in traffic, praying for parking spots, and struggling for elbow room.
Thankfully, certain lesser-known parks still promise wild serenity, and getting there is as fun as it is easy when you’re driving the Jeep® Wrangler 4xe. What vehicle other than a Wrangler would you take on a safari, anyway?
The national parks profiled below are out-of-this-world, under-the-radar, and absolutely worth the drive this summer. Let them inspire you, and then use that inspiration to build your Jeep Wrangler 4xe.
BUILD YOUR WRANGLER 4xe for the ultimate national park road trip.
1. North Cascades National Park
Photo: PNW Park Ranger/Shutterstock
Drive from: Seattle
One-way mileage: 107
Just 2.5 hours from downtown Seattle, North Cascades National Park — a rugged, vertical wilderness of glaciers, mountains, and fjord-like lakes — sees roughly 40,000 visitors every year. To put that in perspective: That’s about how many visitors Yellowstone might get in a single day.
If you like the sound of that, it’s time to hit the North Cascades Scenic Highway (State Route 20) in your Wrangler with the top down and the wind in your hair. Open from May to November, the roughly 30-mile drive winds with old-growth forests, cascading waterfalls, narrow glacial lakes, and jagged peaks around every curve. Catch the park’s iconic scene at Diablo Lake, where forested mountains descend straight into the powder-blue water.
But at some point, it’s imperative to get off the main drag. (Most of the park is unpaved beyond SR-20, so you’ll be glad for a rock-climber like the Wrangler 4xe.) For backcountry adventure, dust up your tires on 12 miles of gravel to the Cascade Pass trailhead. Then, dust up your boots on another 12 miles — this time, the round-trip hike to the base of Sahale Glacier.
2. Voyageurs National Park
Photo: Blue Barron Photo/Shutterstock
Drive from: Minneapolis
One-way mileage: 306
Due north of Minneapolis, the land slowly turns to water. Voyageurs National Park abuts the Canadian border and is roughly one-third H2O, an inland sea dotted with ancient islands (2.8 billion years old), boreal forests, rocky cliffs, marshy wetlands, and some of the most pristine waters in the country.
Though you’ll eventually want to set out in a canoe, kayak, or houseboat — bring your own or arrange a rental, ideally well in advance — the park also offers 27 miles of hiking trails and nearly 300 campsites. If you’re willing to tack on a short paddle, you might just find your own private island.
But even those who stay on two feet or four wheels should stay overnight, because extra magic strikes in the dark. Imagine driving along Highway 11, following the moonlit water. You push a button to retract your Power-Top roof, and voila — say hello to millions of stars. You might even catch a glimpse of the glittering ribbons of the northern lights.
3. Capitol Reef National Park
Photo: Lars Bentrup/Shutterstock
Drive from: Salt Lake City
One-way mileage: 224
The crowds lining up at nearby Arches National Park are missing the wonders in store at Capitol Reef. Deep in Utah’s canyon country, this national park holds cliffs, canyons, domes, natural bridges, and 100 miles of the Waterpocket Fold, a literal wrinkle in time and earth.
Most visitors will take the 7.9-mile scenic drive — starting at the park visitor center — for a quick frontcountry adventure, tacking on a stop in Fruita for petroglyphs, old homestead orchards, and the park’s signature pies. But if you’ve got 4WD and high clearance, you can hit portions of the park most visitors never see, such as the magnificent Cathedral Valley. Remote and rugged with ancient volcanoes and eroding rock walls, the valley’s 57.6-mile gravel loop leads to overlooks and trails offering million-dollar views you can keep to yourself. It’s similar to the well-trafficked Monument Valley — sans the people or pavement.
Tip: The 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe comes with a two-year trial subscription to Trails Offroad. Drivers get access to more than 200 off-road destinations and trail guides, viewed on the vehicle’s 12.3″ touchscreen — because a landscape this expansive deserves the largest-in-class display to date. You’ll have no trouble finding your trailhead, no matter how off-grid you go.
4. Pinnacles National Park
Photo: Zack Frank/Shutterstock
Drive from: San Francisco
One-way mileage: 145
The newest national park on this list, Pinnacles was designated in 2013 for its rare landscape of chaparral and oaks, canyons and caves, and volcanic formations that bubble up in towers, needles, and chutes. There’s nowhere quite like it in California or beyond.
Pinnacles’ biggest claim to fame, though, is found in the sky: The park is home to the critically endangered California condor, the largest bird in North America. Previously extinct in the wild, the condor is on the comeback, thanks in large part to spots like Pinnacles National Park.
For an adventure impossible anywhere else, here’s what to do: Hit Highway 146 at sunrise — it’s a winding one-lane road, so put the top down, breathe in the piney air, and enjoy. You’ll pass the western entrance and land at the Chapparal parking area, where you can set out toward the park’s High Peaks region. (Parking here might be a touch trickier than elsewhere on this list, so try to arrive before 10 AM to snag a good spot.) The ancient lava formations are extra impressive, but send your gaze up. You just might spot the condor, surveying its kingdom, back where it belongs.
Cruising through the park in zero-emissions mode, you’ll be a lot like the condor in your Wrangler 4xe — gliding quietly through the open air while respecting the extraordinary Pinnacles landscape. Just remember to keep your phone handy using a dashboard mount to make sure you never miss a photo opp. 
May 31, 2024
The 10 Top-Rated LGBTQ-Friendly Cities, According to Airbnb Travelers
Home booking website Airbnb just released tons of interesting data in advance of global Pride Month (held usually in June in the US). And it shows some interesting information about what cities around the world seem the most welcome to LGBTQ+ travelers.
By analyzing 10 years worth of online reviews across the global, and tallying up mentions of phrases related to “gay-friendly,” the booking giant found the 10 top-rated cities for LGBTQ+ travelers. It also found that Gen-Z travelers are a growing segment of the bookings for Pride-related festivals, though millennials are still the bulk of the travel crowd.
Photo: Airbnb
The release shared what destinations are most popular with each generation for celebrating Pride, with only two well-known gay-friendly cities appearing on both lists: Bogota, Colombia, and Berlin, Germany. In the US, Gen-Z travelers are heading some unexpected destinations, per Airbnb data, including Richmond, VA, and Salt Lake City, UT. However, millennials are also flocking to destinations not normally associated with LGBTQ+ travel, including Big Sky, MT, and Dallas, TX.
In no particular order, Airbnb found that these cities were the most welcoming for LGBTQ+ travelers year-round.
Puerto Vallarta, MexicoPuerto Vallarta, on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, has long embraced LGBTQ+ travelers with open arms. Unlike some destinations with a singular “gayborhood,” Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ scene is more woven into the fabric of the city. The Zona Romántica, the charming south side of town, has cobblestone streets, vibrant art galleries, and a palpable energy, plus lots of bars and nightclubs. Many are LGBTQ-owned and operated, with lots of nightlife options catering specifically to gay and lesbian travelers. Many resorts and hotels actively promote themselves as friendly to LGBTQ+ travelers, and public displays of affection are widely accepted.
Where to stay in PV: Check Into Relaxation at These Boutique Puerto Vallarta Airbnbs
Madrid, Spain
Photo: FERNANDO VALERO LOPEZ/Shutterstock
Madrid, Spain’s vibrant capital, has transformed into a beacon of LGBTQ+ inclusivity in recent decades. While tolerance has steadily grown throughout the country, Madrid stands out for its enthusiastic embrace of diversity. Chueca, a central neighborhood known for its rainbow-colored signage, serves as the center of the city’s LGBTQ+ scene, with trendy shops, lively bars, and nightclubs catering specifically to the community. And Madrid’s annual Pride celebration is now one of the largest in Europe. It’s a week-long festival overflowing with parades, parties, and events, attracting international attention and solidifying the city’s status as a global LGBTQ+ destination.
Where to stay in Madrid: 11 Best Airbnbs in Madrid, From a Luxury Penthouse to Artsy Apartments
New York, NYNew York City, the quintessential melting pot of cultures, has long been a champion of LGBTQ+ liberation. More than just tolerant, the city actively celebrates its diverse LGBTQ+ community year-round. Greenwich Village, particularly the Stonewall area, holds a pivotal place in LGBTQ+ history as the site of the Stonewall Riots of 1969, sparked by a police raid on a gay bar, which ignited a movement for LGBTQ+ rights that continues to this day. The neighborhood still has a huge LGBTQ+ community, but so do many other areas of NYC.
Neighborhoods like Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, and the West Village all boast thriving LGBTQ+ scenes with various cultural centers catering specifically to the community. NYC is as close to as open-minded as it gets in the US, and LGBTQ+ travelers will find plenty to do every day of the year, whether they’re specifically looking for gay-friendly events, or just want to see some of the best museums in the world.
Where to stay in New York: These Manhattan Airbnbs Showcase the Best of New York City
Paris, France
Photo: Ekaterina Pokrovsky/Shutterstock
Paris, the City of Lights, has a long and fascinating relationship with the LGBTQ+ community. While France was one of the first European countries to decriminalize homosexuality in the late 18th century, full social acceptance has been a gradual process. Today, Paris is a vibrant and welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and inclusivity.
The Marais, a historic district known for its charming streets and trendy boutiques, serves as the heart of Paris’ LGBTQ+ scene — you’ll known you’re there when you see the rainbow-colored pedestrian crossings and rainbow flags fluttering outside cafes. There are lots of bars and restaurants specifically catering to the LGBTQ+ community, and one not to miss is the historic cafe Le Moustache, established in 1921. It’s a Parisian institution known for its inclusive atmosphere and drag performances. For a more contemporary lounge-type vibe, head to Cafe Voulez Vous, serving lunch and dinner but getting very lively at night.
But beyond the Marais, LGBTQ+ acceptance is widespread throughout Paris, with plenty of hotels advertising to the community and PDA accepted nearly everywhere — it is Paris, after all.
Where to stay in Paris: These Unique Paris Airbnbs and Hotels Offer a Stay Unlike Any Other
Seattle, WashingtonOn the Puget Sound, Seattle has a long history as a haven for LGBTQ+ individuals. The Emerald City actively celebrates its diverse LGBTQ+ community in June and beyond, fostering a culture of acceptance and inclusion. Capitol Hill is the center of the city’s LGBTQ+ scene, and some bars are downright institutions. If you’re visiting, be sure to swing by Pony, a converted 1930s gas station offering a lively bar scene, outdoor patio, and vibe catering to the LGBTQ+ community. (It’s slogan is “A very queer bar.”)
Many neighborhoods, from Fremont to Ballard, boast inclusive pockets with LGBTQ+ bars, restaurants, and cultural centers. That’s because Seattle’s LGBTQ+ history stretches back decades. The city was a breeding ground for activism in the 1960s and 70s, and today, the progressive spirit is evident in the city’s vibrant annual Pride celebrations. But beyond Pride, the city’s longstanding LGBTQ+ film festival, called the Seattle Queer Film Festival, celebrates the stories and experiences of LGBTQ+ filmmakers. It’s held every October in the PNW city.
Where to stay in Seattle: 13 Seattle Airbnbs Close To Fresh Seafood, Pike Place, and the Space Needle
San Diego, CA
Photo: Simone Hogan/Shutterstock
San Diego is California’s sunny haven and one (of many) very LGBTQ-friendly destinations in the Golden State. Around North Park, hotspots like Flicks, a bar with video booths and themed nights, and Pecs Bar, a relaxed venue with pool tables and a welcoming atmosphere, cater specifically to the LGBTQ+ community. But neighborhoods from Little Italy to Pacific Beach welcome gay and lesbian travelers with inclusive social spaces, events, meetups, and more.
If you want to hit the beach, head to Blacks Beach near La Jolla. It’s one of the city’s several gay beaches, as well as an unofficial nude beach (nudity is technically illegal in San Diego). For the liveliest atmosphere, head to the north end of the beach.
San Diego’s Pride Fest is actually held in July — making it easy to get a two-for celebration in, enjoying pride festivities elsewhere in June and heading to San Diego to do it all again in July.
Where to stay in San Diego: These Beautiful San Diego Airbnbs Put You Close to the Beach and Downtown
London, United KingdomLondon has a rich LGBTQ+ history, vibrant nightlife, and a general culture of acceptance. Its LGBTQ+ scene is spread throughout the city, and while pockets like Soho, Vauxhall, and the East End possess a higher concentration of LGBTQ+ bars and clubs, you’ll find welcoming and accepting businesses throughout London.
In Soho, a haven for the community since the 17th century, you can take LGBTQ+ walking tours that explore this rich history, visiting landmarks like the Gay’s the Word (one of the oldest LGBTQ+ bookstores in the world). And London Pride, held annually in late June, is a truly colossal event. The parade is one of the largest in the world, and a multitude of Pride-related events take place throughout the city, from film festivals and art exhibitions to community gatherings and dance parties.
Where to stay in London: 23 Airbnbs in London’s Trendiest Neighborhoods
Wilton Manors, FL
Photo: Yes Market Media/Shutterstock
Florida’s statewide politics may leave you thinking the state isn’t LGBTQ+ friendly, but many destinations, individuals, and business owners welcome all travelers to the Sunshine State. And while hotspots like Miami will always have plenty of gay-friendly offerings and entertainment, the lesser-known town of Wilton Manors ranked highly in Airbnb’s report. Often referred to as the “Second Gayest City” in the US, Wilton Manors outside Fort Lauderdale is about as gay-friendly as it gets.
Well-known businesses like Georgie’s Alibi Monkey Bar and Hunters have energetic dance floors and drag shows, are must-dos for LGBTQ+ travelers, and the annual Stonewall Pride Parade and Street Festival, held in June, draws thousands of participants and spectators. The glow night parade is a particularly fun highlight. Beyond Pride, the Pride Center at Equality Park serves as a vital LGBTQ+ community center, offering social events, educational programs, and resources. There’s a full calendar of events year-round.
Fun fact: Wilton Manors elected the first openly gay mayor in Florida in 1988.
Where to stay near Fort Lauderdale: Book These Gorgeous Fort Lauderdale Airbnbs Near the City’s Epic Beaches
Toronto, Canada
Photo: Informa Plus/Shutterstock
Like the Stonewall Riots in New York, Toronto’s 1969 bathhouse raids sparked Canada’s national movement for LGBTQ+ rights. Visitors can delve deeper into this history with dedicated LGBTQ+ walking tours that explore landmarks like the vibrant 519 Community Centre, a hub for LGBTQ+ resources and social events. The entire city is gay-friendly, but the Village (officially called Church-Wellesley Village) has some well-known dedicated gay bars, like Crews & Tangos, known for its drag performances, and The Lodge, a popular spot for socializing. Toronto’s lesbian scene is also thriving, with dedicated spaces like Cherry Bomb, a lesbian nightclub and event space, and the Buddies in Bad Times Theatre. The latter is Canada’s oldest LGBTQ+ performance space.
Toronto Pride is a lively, week-long festival culminating in a massive parade that winds its way through the city, attracting millions of participants and spectators. Throughout June, Pride-related events span the city, including film festivals, art exhibits, and community gatherings.
Where to stay in Toronto: The Best Airbnbs in Downtown Toronto, From the Harbourfront to the CN Tower
Chicago, ILMost parts of the Windy City are pretty gay-friendly, but two neighborhoods stand out as being especially popular with LGBTQ+ travelers: Boystown and Andersonville.
Boystown, on the north side near Lake Michigan, is considered the historic center of the LGBTQ+ scene. Halsted Street has a plethora of gay bars and clubs catering to a diverse range of interests. Sidetracks has multiple dance floors and drag shows, and the Closet is one of the oldest gay bars in the city.
Andersonville, north of Boystown, offers a more eclectic and inclusive vibe. It has a healthy concentration of lesbian bars like Marty’s Martini Bar (a longtime Chicago institution known for its friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere), but also has lots of LGBTQ-owned restaurants, shops, and cultural centers. During June, you’ll find multiple pride celebrations in the city. The official Chicago pride celebration has been happening for more than 50 years, but it’s not the only LGBTQ+ event in the city. The city hosts the International Mr. Leather competition every May and the Reeling LGBTQ+ Film Fest every September, and is home to cultural centers like Party Noire and the Pride Arts Center.
Where to stay in Chicago: The 15 Coolest Airbnbs in Chicago
The Malibu Sandals Latigo Is the Perfect Adventure-Ready Summer Travel Shoe
I typically approach packing for a trip like a featherweight boxing match weigh-in: ruthlessly cut any unnecessary weight. As someone averse to checking bags (though having a kid has softened me on this point unless I’m traveling solo), I normally will only bring the shoes on my feet. Weddings and other special occasions where I need nicer footwear are the exceptions. After testing out the Malibu Sandals Latigo during a week in Jamaica, more adventurous and walking-heavy trips in warm weather locales are on that exception list, too.
Malibu Sandals, as the name suggests, makes sandals and shoes that are purpose designed for the sand and cliffs of the California coast. The initial inspiration for the brand came from huaraches — a woven leather sandal style that dates back centuries to pre-colonial Mexico, when it was was the defacto shoe for people in what are now the states of Jalisco, Michoacán, and Yucatán (the modern name comes from kwarachi, of the Tarascan language spoken by the Purépecha).
Time has seen huaraches go from historic, to trendy, to somewhat maligned, to back in mainstream conversations. Fashion trends, as with most things in life, go in endless circles. It’s also a category that’s impossible to pinpoint the exact dates of when trends start and who is wholly responsible. According to the backstory that Malibu Sandals cites as its inspiration, what is clear is that the 1960s Beach Boy era saw the first modern surge of huaraches in the United States, starting with surfers and hippies on the West Coast. They even earned the moniker “surfer sandals.”
The name came from surfers on the Pacific Coast who moved down to Baja California to escape the crowds that had found just how enjoyable the previously surf-only beaches are. The surfers came back from Baja wearing huaraches — a shoe that breathes easy on hot days, is durable and stable enough for climbs to hidden beaches through little-traversed crags, and exudes a sandy beach life (though how much those surfers cared about their footwear aesthetics is up for debate).
Malibu Sandals has a number of different styles — slides, moccasins, mules, open-toe, etc. — but I went with the Latigo, one of the brand’s most popular designs.
The Latigo’s higher edges protects your toes, and the sculpted arch and deep-basic heel feels like something that was designed from a molding of my foot. The thee-piece midsole is wrapped in grippy, 100-percent natural Malaysian crepe gum rubber. Plus, the PETA-approved vegan materials can withstand the sand and water better than true leather. In short, it keeps the genre-defining, hand-woven aspects of traditional huaraches while adding in Malibu Sandals’s commitment to vegan materials and science-backed ergonomic designs.
Tested: Malibu Sandals Latigo
Photo: Malibu Sandals
These shoes are true to size, and fit the same as a pair of sneakers. The brand suggest sizing up if you plan on wearing with socks, but these are beach shoes through and through and regular socks are not in the books for any use case I have (though I did put on some thin no-show socks with no sizing issues to avoid standing barefoot while waiting to shuffle through airport security).
I had some initial reservations that these were far from my typical style while looking at pictures online. They ended up fitting naturally with pretty much any type of casual resort wear, be that shorts, linen pants, or jeans cuffed high above my ankle.
My new Latigos proved their value before I even hit the sand. I am nothing if not optimistic, and the first time I put these on was on the way to the airport without considering I might need a break-in period. Thankfully, they fit like a worn-in custom shoe from the start and I remained blister-free.
They quickly slide on and off while staying more secure than typical laceless shoes thanks to a sliding tightener on top. Walking around the Denver airport waiting for my delayed flight to Jamaica, the shoes lended a bouncy step that didn’t tire out my feet no matter how many times my toddler daughter wanted to go from snack spot to bar to outside seating on the far end of the terminal (luggage in tow).
When we arrived at Moon Palace, our resort in Ocho Rios, my feet felt fresh and ready for more exploring. These are far from formal wear, so my pair of loafers came in handy for the nicer restaurants. Which means packing some more professional looking shoes is a must for any multi-purpose trip. Other than that, my Latigos took me everywhere — the beach, the pool, the town, quick ventures downstairs for coffee or a drink, a cannabis farm walking tour.
One walk went from the beach and into town with a quick stop at a foot washer. Even when wet from washing off the sand, my Latigos were stable and slip-free while carrying a worn-out kid on my shoulders.
Back home, my Latigos have transitioned nicely to everyday wear the past couple of months now that warmer weather is here. Looking forward to upcoming trips to Türkiye and the rocky beaches of the Pacific Northwest, I already know that these shoes will once again be the reason to drift away from my one-shoe packing policy.
Visiting the Best Place to See Whales Year-Round Is a Great Way to Help Them Thrive
In October of 2023, the Santa Barbara Channel was officially recognized as the second Whale Heritage Area in the United States. The region received the accolade in response to local efforts led by the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, conservationist Jean-Michel Cousteau, and local leaders including biologists and business owners to showcase conservation and education efforts supporting a thriving ecosystem for cetaceans in this beautiful stretch of southern California. The Santa Barbara Channel Whale Heritage Area is the best place in the world to see whales year-round, and doing so helps to protect their environment for the future.
The Whale Heritage Areas effort was started by the World Cetacean Alliance, a UK-based non-profit under the guidance of Jean-Michel Cousteau, son of Jacque Cousteau. Whale Heritage Areas are a flagship effort of the WCA. and seek to promote environmental restoration and maritime conservation in habitats and feeding grounds along whale migration routes. For Santa Barbara, the designation is a marker of success for local conservation efforts.
How the Santa Barbara Channel became a Whale Heritage Area
Photo: Vikki Hunt/Shutterstock
“When I started working out here in the ‘90s, we didn’t see a lot of whales,” Holly Lohuis, a Santa Barbara-based marine biologist and educator with the Ocean Futures Society, told Matador.
The decline was a result of industrial whaling and habitat degradation.
“There’s a great conservation success since then of bringing these animals back from the brink of extinction,” Lohuis says.
Those efforts were led by the maritime museum, local conservationists and business owners who worked to enact conservation statuses in and around the channel, including 13 Marine Protected Areas enacted between 2003 and 2007. Smaller efforts continued to take place over the ensuing years, until Lohuis and other local conservationists began working with Cousteau and his organization.
A steering committee was formed in 2021 to begin the application process to have the Santa Barbara Channel designated as a Whale Heritage Area. To meet the requirements, the committee had to show how the destination follows four major pillars – responsible tourism, conservation initiatives already in place to protect marine mammals, community education, and cultural components that demonstrate how the area will engage the community in ocean conservation efforts well into the future.
Santa Barbara’s designation follows that of Dana Point south of Los Angeles, making it the second in the US. Lohuis, alongside Hiroko Bensko, owner of the Condor Express whale watching tour operator, and Greg Gorga, Executive Director of the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, led the effort to secure the accreditation.
“We were able to get candidate site status pretty quickly,” Lohuis says. “Then it was about a year and a half or so of building the elements to show that we meet that criteria. Whales are these iconic species, and we can use these stories of hope to engage the general public and tourists on what are some of the environmental issues that face us today, including how we can we be a collective voice to protect wild places such as the Santa Barbara Channel.”
How to see whales in the Santa Barbara Channel
Photo: HannaTor/Shutterstock
For travelers, becoming part of that voice involves visiting Santa Barbara and supporting the businesses and organizations that helped bring the whales back to their natural habitat in the waters separating mainland California from the Channel Islands.
Lohuis notes that the best way to see whales in the Santa Barbara Channel is to sign up for a boat tour with a local whale watching tour operator. Condor Express offers such expeditions year round, with daily 4.5-hour excursions costing $125 per person. Special events, party cruises, and private charters are also available. Santa Barbara Whale Watch and Santa Barbara Sailing Center offer similar options.
While tours are available daily, you’ll have the opportunity to see different types of whales depending on the season in which you visit. February to early April is best for California Grey Whales. May to September is the time for Blue Whales, Minke Whales, and Humpback Whales. Orcas occasionally make appearances during this time of year, as do Right Whales. Tours generally include a “whale sighting guarantee” that provides a credit for a future cruise in the unlikely instance that none are seen on your tour.
Passenger ships shuttling visitors to Channel Island National Park often see whales en route, so if you’re heading to the park keep eyes peeled on the way there and on the way back.
How to further support the Santa Barbara Channel Whale Heritage Area
Photo: Kelly vanDellen/Shutterstock
By visiting and taking a whale watching tour, you are doing your part to support marine mammal conservation in the area.
“The whole goal of a network of marine protected areas is to engage tourists to go to locations with responsible tourism,” Lohuis says. “That has been the heart of our whale watching history in Santa Barbara for decades. Visitors are instrumental in supporting the businesses that are doing their best to mitigate any potential impact on wildlife here.”
Another local program supporting whales in the Santa Barbara Channel is the Blue Whales Blue Skies Initiative. This program encourages container ships to slow down when moving through the channel, giving whales the chance to get out of the way should they happen to be in the path of the shipping route.
“One of the biggest threats facing whales around the world is being run over by these large container ships,” Lohuis says. “We’re literally urbanizing our oceans, turning them into these busy freeways of fast, loud, air-polluting ships. The Blue Whales Blue Skies Initiative was spearheaded by the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary that surrounds the Channel Islands National Park. When the ships reduce their speed to 10 knots or less, whales have shown that they have enough time to get out of the way.”
You can support the effort by shopping with retailers and brands that ship with member shipping companies and, if you live in southern California, by asking shippers calling on local ports to sign up for the program.
Stopping into the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum and supporting is efforts financially is also a great way to support the whales. Lastly, following Leave No Trace principles, minimizing waste, and ensuring it reaches proper disposal bins is essential to a healthy ocean habitat.
A Visit to Penticton, BC, Can Be Nearly Fuel-Free. Here’s How to Plan (and Enjoy) a Sustainable Trip.
There are few cares floating with you down the Penticton Channel on a cloudless day in British Columbia’s sunny interior. If you get hot, jump off your floatie into the refreshing water that surrounds you. If you bump into a unicorn inflatable just downstream, well, floatie meet-and-greets are part of the fun during this classic summer activity in Penticton.
When you’re done relaxing on the waterway that connects Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake, a colorful Coyote Cruises bus waits to drive you back to the other side of Penticton. This is just one way the small carbon-neutral city strives to decrease the use of fossil fuels. Better yet, Penticton’s compact downtown is so walkable that it’s a cinch to park your car on arrival and get around on foot, by bicycle, or atop a paddleboard or kayak to make your vacation fuel-free…almost.
Penticton’s green ethos extends to its restaurants and wineries, too: farm-to-table food, sustainably produced wines, and breweries that grow their own barley are local phenomena, along with weekly markets where you can buy directly from growers. With fewer crowds than other summer holiday destinations and activities that encourage you to stay in the moment, Penticton embodies slow travel. Here’s how to embrace it on your trip.
Lace up your walking shoes
Photo: Kiwanis Walking Pier/Visit Penticton
As soon as you arrive in Penticton, park your car and tuck the keys away — you can walk or cycle to most places around town. Choose a popular walking path, such as the Kiwanis Walking Pier or the Okanagan Lake promenade that parallels Okanagan Beach from Rotary Park to the S.S. Sicamous Museum, and enjoy the stops along the way. Want to zip around a little quicker? Rent a zero-emission e-scooter from Sparrow Scooters, with various locations to pick up and drop off around town.
Pay a visit to the Penticton Art Gallery to admire local and Indigenous art, or stop by the Cherry on Top Shake Shop (located right across from the beach and in the same location as Lickity Splitz ice cream shop) to enjoy a decadent ice cream “crazy shake.” If it’s Saturday, don’t miss the weekly Penticton Farmers’ Market and Downtown Penticton Community Market on Main Street, where you can buy locally crafted souvenirs like artisan soaps or condiments made from rescued fruit.
Pedal around Penticton
Photo: Max Power/Penticton E-Kruise
Wedged between two lakes, Penticton’s flat geography makes it easy to get around on two wheels instead of four. Bring your own bike or rent an e-bike from Penticton E-Kruise, Pedego Penticton, or Penticton Bike Rentals, then cycle to restaurants, wineries, or between beaches on the Penticton Channel pathway that connects Okanagan Lake Beach with Skaha Lake Beach. If you’re bringing your own bike, you can get a tune-up at The Bike Barn, or stop at one of its free bike repair stations around the city if you need a fix along your ride.
Another trail to try is the Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail, a decommissioned railway line that starts at either edge of town and travels north toward Naramata and south to Okanagan Falls. Along the Naramata Bench, you’ll be tempted to pull in at wineries for tastings or explore Little Tunnel, a popular day-trip destination. Give in to those temptations! South of town, the KVR will charm you with secluded beaches along the shore of Skaha Lake, an impressive trestle bridge in Okanagan Falls, and a well-deserved cone from the original Tickleberry’s location, a local-favourite ice cream shop.
It takes more effort to get to Penticton’s mountain biking networks using your own pedal power, but with an e-mountain bike rental from Freedom The Bike Shop, you should be able to cruise up to Campbell Mountain or Three Blind Mice and still have enough energy for a moderate climb. The reward? A fast and flowy descent.
Sip whites or reds that are also green
Photo: Elephant Island Winery/Aikins Loop
Earth-friendly wine touring in and around Penticton might mean letting someone else drive your group to cut back on emissions. Choose a company like Farm to Glass Wine Tours, whose Tesla ferries oenophiles around, then level up the outing with lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant like the one at Naramata Inn. To go completely fuel-free, opt for an organised or self-guided tour where you cycle or stroll between vineyards — Hoodoo Adventure Company and Epic Cycling are two fantastic options for guided e-bike excursions.
Rather get your steps in for the day? Check out the new Aikins Loop Wine & Spirits Cooperative to walk between four wineries close to Naramata. Make your tastings even greener by picking sustainable wineries that practice regenerative agriculture, such as Tightrope Winery, Little Engine Wines, and Hillside Winery.
Get your float (or paddle) on
Photo: Visit Penticton
While in Penticton, be sure to partake in the city’s most beloved summer pastime by floating the seven-kilometre Penticton Channel between lakes. Rent single or double tubes — or inflatable “party islands” that hold up to 12 passengers if you’re travelling with family or a big group of friends — from Coyote Cruises. Opt for the company’s tube and bus combo, which includes group transportation back to the starting point to make the day more carbon-friendly.
If you’d rather be active on the water, kayak and paddleboard rentals are available at numerous spots around town, including Pier Water Sports and both Penticton Boat Rentals marina locations, as well as their new rental location at the Penticton Lakeside Resort. You could also cycle over to Skaha Marina to rent a watercraft, or pedal up to Naramata along the KVR for a rental (or lesson) from Sun N’ Sup, one of the region’s original paddleboard shops.
Fuel your body with local, seasonal food
Photo: The Bench Market/Visit Penticton
Though vineyards now outnumber orchards on the hillsides around town, local farms still grow a huge variety of veggies, fruits, and herbs. This has given rise to a strong farm-to-table movement in Penticton. Walk or cycle to spots that practice sustainability by sourcing ingredients from area producers, such as The Restaurant at Poplar Grove, or fill your picnic basket with goodies from The Bench Market, which stocks local, seasonal ingredients.
To get a little more hands on, hit up a u-pick like Keenan’s in Kaleden (a 45-minute bike ride from town) in early July to pluck the freshest cherries. Round out your haul with juicy peaches and apricots from fruit stands like the Upper Bench Fruit Farm above town. After all that walking, riding, paddling, and picking, rehydrate at Tin Whistle, a carbon-neutral brewery. You’ve earned it.
These are just a few ideas for a “fuel-free…almost” vacation in Penticton. The city also has a number of charging stations for travellers with EVs, plus other outdoor activities (think rock climbing or horseback riding) that are as fun for you as they are easy on the environment. Hurry up and start planning your visit to Penticton — then give slow, sustainable travel a go when you get there.
May 30, 2024
In Cheyenne, Wyoming, $125 Gets You a Taste of the Cowboy Lifestyle
Some people dream of spending summer and fall vacations in tropical locations, lounging under palm trees or snorkeling in tropical oceans. But if you’d rather learn to Texas Two-Step, kick your cowboy boots up at a bonfire, or mosey up to a local waterin’ hole, there may be a better destination in mind for you: Cheyenne, Wyoming. And if you’ve got $125, you can live like a cowboy in the famous Wild West town.
Visit Cheyenne describes the new “Saddle Up” pass as a “crash course on cowboying,” and what you need to go from “yellow-belly to yee-haw” in the town famous for hosting the world’s largest outdoor rodeo every July. The pass bundles some of the famous sights, attractions, and restaurants focused on cowboy culture, Wild West history, and the current-day free spirit of the town. The pass is good for seven consecutive days, so travelers doing a weeklong trip will be covered the entire time.
Cheyenne, Wyoming, leans into its cowboy history. Photo: Kit Leong/Shutterstock
Saddle Up pass holders get access to some of the best cowboy experiences in Wyoming, including a horseback ride and lasso lesson at the Terry Bison Ranch (dating to the late 1800s) and a Wild West Trolley Tour through downtown Cheyenne. Also included are cheesy-but-always-fun old-timey photos, and discounts on everything from cowboy boots to boot buckles to custom cowboy hats, which can run several hundred dollars. There are also three museums included:
The Cheyenne Depot Museum, focused on the city’s rail historyThe Old West Museum, focused on the country’s Wild West history and cultureThe Nelson Museum of the West, focused on Native American and cowboy history, as well as natural history and western artFood and drink deals are also part of the pass, including buy one, get one drinks at the Outlaw Saloon (with dance classes every Thursday night) and discounts at the Bunkhouse Bar and Saloon.
Photo: Jamilya Khalilulina/Shutterstock
While dressing like a cowboy and learning to swing a lasso won’t quite put you in the same category as Wild West legends like Wild Bill Hickok or Doc Holliday, both of whom were known to live in Cheyenne, it is good practice for a greater cowboy adventure in the western US. Cheyenne Frontier Days, the largest outdoor rodeo in the world, is held every July in Cheyenne. This year, it’s July 19-28.
The hugely popular mega-festival includes 10 days of rodeo events, huge concerts, multiple parades, a sprawling carnival with live Wild West demonstrations and shows, an impressive Native American craft market, and even a pop-up town called “Frontier Town” with everything from visual artists to character reenactments. In 2024, concert artists ranging from T. Pain and Ludacris to Jason Aldean to Lainey Wilson, Thomas Rhett, and Machine Gun Kelly will be taking the stage on festival evenings.
Tickets for various events and shows start around $20 and are available online, as are package deals for visitors who want to attend multiple days of the festival. And if you used your Saddle Up pass to buy cowboy boots, you’ll be in good company: the festival attracts more than half a million people each year, and dressing like a true Cheyenne cowboy is very much encouraged.
Photo: Maureen Kirk/Shutterstock
But you don’t need to visit Cheyenne to experience a taste of the Wild West. Throughout the US, there are multiple places to see wild horses roam America’s plains. (While most are in the western US, there’s a huge herd living on islands in Maryland and Virginia.) And if your favorite part of western culture is the connection between people and horses, you may want to take an equine therapy vacation. You’ll find retreats across the country, ranging from those focused on overcoming emotional issues to clinics more focused on meditation and goal setting.
If you like your cowboy culture paired with massages and farm-to-table cuisine, you’re in luck, as high-end ranches are on the rise. Sprawling (and luxurious) Alisal Ranch in central California mixes Santa Barbara’s wine country charms with long-distance trail rides and horsemanship skills. And in Hawai’i, you can visit multiple ranches on the Big island, learning about the state’s little-known cowboy and ranching history. Arizona’s DD Gamble Guest Lodge and Ranch has 2,000 acres of cowboy-ready wilderness at a slightly more affordable price point, as does the state’s Rancho de los Caballeros, where cowboy- and outdoor-themed lodging packages start around $215 per night.
New Airline Awards Show What Planes of the Future May Look Like
Going on right now in Germany is an airline trade show called the “Aircraft Interiors Expo.” And while that may not sound exciting, it is if you like travel and flying, as the biggest brands in the world are showing off their designs for planes of the future. One of the biggest parts of the show is the “Crystal Cabin Awards,” recognizing the best designs proposed in the world of air travel — and 2024’s winners were just announced.
Winner: BermudAir
1. Cabin Concepts
Winner: BermudAir Aisle Class SuiteThe Cabin Concepts category was won by the BermudAir Aisle Class Suite, created by Factory Design in cooperation with BermudAir. It is a startup operating Embraer E175s. (4/17) pic.twitter.com/NqdFzza4fn
— Simple Flying (@simple_flying) May 30, 2024
Small-ish airline BermudAir (based in Hamilton, Bermuda) took the top spot in the “Cabin Concepts” category. Its design removes economy seating to make way for roomier business class seats for flights between Bermuda and the US, offering each passenger roomy seats, a privacy screen, and a large tabletop space. It also scored points for its use of repurposed materials and ability to be assembled (and disassembled) in more eco-friendly, reusable ways.
Nominee: Airbus
Photo: Airbus
A noteworthy runner up were the rethought interior cabins from Airbus. The conceptual look and feel of the passenger space includes recycled fabrics, larger windows, and natural lighting. It was introduced in a promotional video you can watch here, which shows a future-looking cabin with nighttime ambient lighting, larger overhead storage bins, and personal dividers between seats — but no word on whether it’s an actual design in the works, or just a backdrop for the video. The video also touts the manufacturer’s commitment to more sustainable air travel, mentioning initiatives to reduce food waste, reduce its carbon footprint, and optimize on-plane energy consumption.
Nominee: Japan Airlines
Photo: Japan Airlines
JAL (Japan Airlines) also introduced a host of new design concepts for all classes of seat. Its designs for new business-class cabins were nominated in the “Cabin Concepts” category and praised for their blend of modern and traditional Japanese designs. The first-class cabins are private rooms with seats that can be configured as couches or beds, along with clothing storage space, large TV screens, and surround-sound audio built into the headrests.
The concepts for business class show smaller but still luxurious suites with doors, and the same built-in audio as first class. Turning the chair into a couch isn’t an option, but travelers in the smaller suites can still switch to lay-flat mode to catch some Z’s during flights. Economy class passengers don’t get too many perks in the new concepts, but it does mention a cool concept for all classes: the ability to access inflight entertainment in advance to make a playlist, so you’re ready to relax the moment you step on board.
Winner: Qantas Airways
A conceptualized image of the Qantas “Wellness Zones” for long-haul flights. Photo: Qantas Airlines/Diehl Aviation
In the category for “Passenger Comfort,” Qantas Airways won for its concept of a “Wellness Zone” to be installed on long-haul flights between Sydney and London or Sydney and NYC. The area is accessible to all passengers regardless of seating class, with a snack and drink station, as well as space for stretching and movement, paired with guided video wellness exercises. It would also have lighting designed to help people adjust to new time zones. It was introduced in 2023, but won’t go into production until 2026 at the earliest (if it happens at all).
Nominee: Collins Aerospace/PanasonicView this post on Instagram
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If you’re lucky enough to fly in a premium-class cabin in the future, you may get to experience the new MAYA business-class concept. It’s a collaboration between Collins Aerospace and Panasonic Avionics and described as “immersive.” There’s a 45-inch LED screen controlled by passengers’ personal devices, as well as the integration of “Arise” technology, which monitors passengers’ movement to automatically adjust the seat position and cushion pressure. The hope is that passengers will be disturbed far less by temperature changes or airplane movement, allowing them to get better sleep in the air. It was also a finalist in the category of “Passenger Comfort.”
Nominee: Boeing/Virginia Tech
Photo: Virginia Tech/Susan Sale
Boeing debuted a new concept for passengers in wheelchairs, created in partnership with a team of students from Virginia Tech and Collins Aerospace. The concept allows wheelchair users to stay in their chairs during flights, rather than having to move to an airline seat. It works by folding up a row of three seats and pushing the wheelchair into a locking system to hold the chair in place. “Existing airplane seats don’t include the harnesses and other [safety] gear that may be essential for passengers who use wheelchairs,” reads the release from Virginia Tech, “so another traveler must be there to hold the passenger’s body up during take-off, turbulence, and landing.”
Delta’s New Direct Flights Are Making International Travel From the US Easier This Summer
Delta is celebrating the start of summer with new and reinstated direct flights to various international destinations from the US. As of this month, travelers across the nation can reach European coastal hotspots such as Nice in the South of France and historic capitals like Prague, Czech Republic.
This summer, Delta is stepping up its game with increased flight frequency. Delta currently offers 1,770 weekly flights to 80 international airports — a significant six percent increase from last year. Highlights include a four-times-a-week nonstop flight from Atlanta to Zurich, the new route from JFK to Munich, and the new daily service from Minneapolis to Dublin.
This is Delta’s “largest international schedule to date in operation,” says the airline. The new routes mirror customers’ most-searched destinations. Delta’s 2024 annual list of sought after flights reflects a strong desire for international travel to cities such as perennial favorites London, Athens, Paris, and Rome.
The airline is rolling out other changes to make summer travel easier this year. SkyMiles passengers departing from Atlanta, Detroit, Los Angeles, LaGuardia, and New York-JFK can now hold a Delta Digital ID, which will help speed up the security wait. And there’s a new numbered system to streamline the boarding process, as well as improvements to the Fly Delta app.
Delta’s new and reinstated summer international flights Atlanta Edinburgh, ScotlandNice, FranceZurich, SwitzerlandBostonEdinburgh, ScotlandDetroitReykjavik, IcelandRome, ItalyMinneapolisDublin, Ireland Syracuse, Sicily Reykjavik, IcelandNew York (JFK) Berlin, Germany Prague, Czech RepublicNaples, Italy Shannon, Republic of Ireland Tel Aviv, IsraelSeattle Taipei, TaiwanMore like thisTravelWashington DC’s Newest Direct Flight Makes Travel to This Famous Desert Winter Escape Easy
May 29, 2024
This Packable, 3-Piece Jacket Kit Keeps You Warm Without Taking Up Luggage Space
I don’t consider myself an ultralight traveler, but like most people, I prefer a lighter bag over a heavier one. But I get cold easily, so when I’m outdoors, my backpack is often weighed down with extra bulky layers. It’s especially noticeable when traveling, as carrying an extra outdoor jacket can easily fill half a carry-on.
That was the big draw for me for testing the Eddie Bauer “Super Sevens” Kit. It’s a three-piece set — a rain jacket, a wind jacket, and a fleece hoodie — supposedly able to keep you warm and dry in a huge range of temperatures and conditions. Equally important is its packability, as all three items are extremely thin and pack into their own pockets. The three items make seven different combos, hence the name “Super Sevens.”
When I got my hands on the kit, I was suspicious at first as all the items are extremely thin, and with no insulation, seemed like they wouldn’t do much to keep me warm. I spent a good two months testing each piece, and while I don’t think the set will replace my insulated winter jackets or puffy vests, they did keep me much warmer than I expected — especially since I’m used to pulling out my down jacket if the temperature gets below 55 degrees F.
Left to right: The packed hoodie, rain jacket, and wind jacket. Each can actually compress to about half its size if smushed. Hat for comparison. Photo: Suzie Dundas
Together, the three pieces I tested weigh less than one pound. And when I packed them down tightly, I was able to fit into a stuff sack roughly as small as a Nalgene — impressive, for three layers. If you wear them together, put the rain jacket on the outside, followed by the wind jacket, followed by the sweater. But realistically, you’ll most likely wear either the rain jacket or the wind jacket over the fleece sweater, not all three at once.
All three pieces are part of the brand’s “First Ascent” line, representing the most technical, outdoor-ready pieces from the brand. While Eddie Bauer makes plenty of clothing for just lounging and everyday use, the Eddie Bauer Super Sevens Kit was created and tested by pro athletes, so it’s really targeted at that serious outdoor adventurer clientele.
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Here’s my take on the Super Sevens Kit, as an outdoorsy person who lives in the mountains, including which pieces are (and maybe aren’t) worth your money.
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.
Item one: Eddie Bauer Super Sevens Rain Jacket
It’s pretty big shower when an iPhone camera can capture individual raindrops falling on you. Photo: Suzie Dundas
Available sizes: S-XXLTester info: Tester is 5’7″ and normally wears a women’s smallSize tested: MPrice: $129+This jacket is legit the best. I have several rain jackets (including a Patagonia one that I really like), but none are anywhere near as light or thin as the Super Sevens Rain Jacket. But despite being thin, the waterproof protection is legit, rated to 20K (the highest level of waterproofing available on consumer products). I got absolutely drenched while wearing it around Cape Town, South Africa, and while the travelers I was with were struggling with umbrellas and ponchos, I just pulled up the hood and went on with the day. The water beaded up so well on the outer fabric that all I had to do was occasionally jump around a bit to knock off some moisture.
Rain beading off the sleeves, rather than soaking in. Photo: Suzie Dundas
The Super Seven Rain Jacket is a nice lightweight layer when it's just a smidge too breezy for a t-shirt alone. Photo: Suzie Dundas
It packs into one of its own pockets, but can actually smush to about half this size. Photo: Suzie DundasBecause it’s so thin, the Eddie Bauer Super Sevens Rain Jacket doesn’t add a lot of warmth. It adds some, since the waterproof fabric isn’t super breathable, so it traps your body heat a bit. That means the key to effectively using this layer is to always have it handy — it’s not going to keep you warm if you put it on after you’ve already gotten poured on. Fortunately, it folds up so extremely small that it’s quite easy to just leave in your outdoor pack. If you smush it, it packs up almost as small as a soda can.
Unfortunately, I got the wrong size. It says it has an “athletic” fit (the brand’s snuggest cut), so I sized up from my usual size, ordering a medium instead of a small. I’d say the sizing doesn’t feel very slim at all, so it definitely billows out around my shoulders and torso a bit. My conclusion is that Eddie Bauer tops just run a little big, so even if you don’t like slim fit items, I’d stick with your usual size. The baggy fit won’t stop me from continuing to wear it.
Pros: Very waterproof, very packable, big pockets, adjustable hood
Cons: Durability remains TBD, sizing runs a little big
Item two: Super Sevens Wind Jacket
The Eddie Bauer Super Sevens wind jacket — a bit billowy, but very effective at blocking wind. Photo: Suzie Dundas
Available sizes: S-XXLTester info: Tester is 5’7″ and normally wears a women’s smallSize tested: MPrice: $129The Super Sevens Wind Jacket is also great, though I have issues with sizing; wearing one size up makes me feel a bit balloon-ish when I caught the wind. In fairness, probably my fault for not swapping for a smaller size.
Aside from that, it works pretty well. I can’t say it works better than any other technical wind jacket I’ve tested, but it definitely packs up smaller than any others I’ve tested. It packs even smaller than the rain jacket, and with a little bit of stuffing, I was able to fit it in the pocket of my bike shorts. It also has a loop for clipping to a carabiner if you prefer to carry it on the outside of your pack (or on your harness).
That’s the wind jacket next to a small women’s glove. Ball it up, and it can smush down into more of a tennis ball size. Photo: Suzie Dundas
Because it’s so thin, like the rain jacket, it doesn’t add any warmth. But if you’ve ever heard the term “wind chill,” you know that strong wind can make you feel much colder than it is. So if you can block the wind from hitting your body, voila: you’re a lot warmer, even without more layers. It’s so tiny that keeping it in your hiking bag or mountain bike gear bin is a no-brainer. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it’s good at what it’s built to do — and it definitely excels at portability.
It also has a light water repelling finish, so it’ll keep you dry in early morning mist or heavy evening fog.
Pros: Super thin and packable, good price, secure chest pocket
Cons: No side pockets, runs big
Item three: Super Sevens Fleece Hoodie
The Super Sevens Fleece Hoodie: It’s no down jacket, but it’s warmer than you’d think. Photo: Suzie Dundas
Available sizes: S-XXLTester info: Tester is 5’7″ and normally wears a women’s smallSize tested: SPrice: $99When I first got the Eddie Bauer Super Sevens Fleece Hoodie in the mail, I thought “There’s no way this thing is going to last more than a week.” The loose weave is very thin, to the point of being almost see-through. But here we are two months later, and it doesn’t seem to have snagged or caught in anything (though I am careful when zipping a jacket over it).
Despite that, it’s as warm as a heavier hoodie, despite weighing only four ounces — but it’s still lightweight, so don’t expect to stay warm with the sweater alone in the middle of winter. It won’t keep you as warm as a giant thick fleece, but it takes up a fraction of the amount of space in your bag and is a heck of a lot warmer than it looks. This also means it’s easy to fit on under snug jackets, making it ideal for activities like climbing, when you don’t want a ton of extra fabric balled up under your harness. It does have more durable patches around the elbows (also helpful for climbing), but I’d still recommend treating it with a little extra TLC in the laundry.
Size-wise, this one was pretty standard. I normally wear a small and tested this in a small, which seemed correct. While I don’t think I’d wear it as an everyday sweater to a restaurant or outdoor party, it’s definitely something I’ll continue to carry in my hiking pack if I’m worried about being a bit too chilly. It could also be useful as an extra layer on planes since it won’t add much bulk to my bag.
You can see the outline of my tank underneath in the right lighting conditions. (Ignore the dog hair) Photo: Suzie Dundas
My only real gripe (aside from the thinness; you can see whatever you’re wearing under it in the right light) is that the kangaroo pocket on the front isn’t very useful. The sweater is so light that putting anything with any weight in the pocket pulls heavily on the sweater. But the pocket is primarily there as a stuff sack, anyway.
Pros: Ultralight, warmer than anticipated, thumb holes, reinforced forearms, extremely soft
Cons: A bit see through, very thin (could be prone to snags), limited color options
8 New American Airlines Routes Make It Easier to Reach the Caribbean This Year
American Airlines is the leading US carrier for flights to the Caribbean and Latin America — and its flight network is getting even more extensive.
The airline announced recently that it’s introducing eight new flight routes for this winter — including one route to a new Caribbean destination — as well as increasing service to several popular destinations. Bookings for these winter flights opened up earlier this month via America’s website and app.
Newly added American Airlines routesFour of American’s new flight routes will connect John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York to various Caribbean destinations starting in November and December: a daily service to Bridgetown, Barbados, and Saturday-only services to Saint Lucia, Saint Maarten, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
North Carolina’s Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) will also see Saturday flights to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, making American the only major US carrier to fly to the Caribbean nation.
Those flying American out of Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) can now book new Saturday flights to Bridgetown, Barbados, and Liberia, Costa Rica.
Meanwhile, American is launching daily flights from Miami International Airport (MIA) to La Romana, Dominican Republic, starting in December. Not only will this make American the sole US carrier to service La Romana but also the most networked airline within the Dominican Republic.
Newly expanded American Airlines serviceIn addition to new routes, American is expanding 16 existing routes between the US and the Caribbean and Latin America, starting in December.
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) will see the biggest increase in flights, with expanded service to three destinations in Mexico, as well as The Bahamas, Honduras, and the Cayman Islands.
Alongside additional flights to Bonaire, Jamaica, and the British Virgin Islands, travelers flying out MIA will also find increased service to Mexico, which is also true for travelers flying out of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD).
Meanwhile, CLT is also getting more winter flights to Antigua.
You can see a full list of American’s flight updates here.
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