Matador Network's Blog, page 171
April 17, 2024
Jamaica Carnival Is a Colorful Dream of a Celebration
It’s strange to feel like you know both so much and so little about a country. For me, that’s how I’ve always felt about Jamaica. Bob Marley, the Rastafari Movement, ganja, reggae, dancehall, Usain Bolt, the colors of the Jamaican flag… those elements reminded me of the Jamaica I thought I knew. But when I touched down at the airport, seeing the Blue Mountains towering over Kingston Harbour, I realized it wasn’t as familiar as I thought.
As my van drove me from the airport, on the left side of the road, I realized I had lots to discover about the island nation. With each mile we drove, the island’s beauty was unveiled before me. And from what I could see, it looked as inviting and refreshing as a bottle of the country’s beloved Red Stripe beer.
I arrived in Jamaica with the intention of photographing one of the wildest Carnival festivities in the world. But secretly, I also wanted to close the gap between the Jamaica I thought I knew, and the reality of being there. Fortunately, my quest to experience a deeper side of Jamaica paid off, and I ended with so much more than just Carnival photos.
Here’s everything I got to experience during my visit, and why I can’t wait to go back and get to know the island and its culture a little better.
Jamaica Carnival is a colorful, thriving celebration
The Sunday Road March is the main event of Jamaica’s multi-week Carnival season. Thousands of people take the streets of Kingston, Ocho Ríos, and Montego Bay in multi-town events full of music and some of the most vibrant costumes you’ll ever see.
The pictures here are from the Kingston Road March on April 7, 2024.
Streets are full of color and celebrations of culture
Street art is strong in Jamaica, with various murals celebrating Jamaica’s culture everywhere from the Kingston Harbour to the back alleys of Ocho Ríos. Most of the murals portrayed here are from Water Lane in Kingston, produced and maintained with the help of Kingston Creative, a non-profit organization transforming this section of the city into a multidisciplinary arts district.
Celebrating a true Jamaican legend
The Bob Marley Museum is in the musician’s former home in Kingston. The place is a tour de force for every Bob Marley fan, but also for those who appreciate music history in general. A major highlight is Marley’s studio, unaltered from his recording days.
Also worth mentioning is the collection of the musician’s most iconic possessions, like his famous 1976 Land Rover. Photos of Marley himself decorate the walls as a reminder that this legend of a man once occupied the same space you’re standing in.
History lessons at Devon House Heritage Site
The Devon House Mansion is one of Jamaica’s better-known historic landmarks. This palatial, tropical manor was once the property of Jamaica’s first black millionaire, George Stiebel. Now, the manor and its gardens house shops and renowned restaurants.
Jamaica Carnival’s party scene rivals bigger celebrations
The Road March might be Carnival’s main event, but it’s not the only party taking over the streets of Jamaica during this time of the year. Carnival-related events are frequent nearly everywhere on the island, and you could easily party both day and night if you’re up for it.
These photos are from two separate events: a nighttime “Tailgate Party” in the heart of Kingston, and a “Breakfast Party” in the outskirts of the city.
A peaceful haven in the middle of the city
An afternoon walk took me to Emancipation Park, a public park built to commemorate the end of slavery in the Caribbean. It had a peaceful atmosphere that contrasted with the Jamaica Carnival activities around town, with families relaxing under big tropical trees and photographers using the beautiful setting as the perfect backgrounds for photo sessions. The park also contains several sculptures of Jamaica’s national heroes, and a monumental sculpture at the entrance, called “Redemption Song.”
An offshore white-sand paradise
A short boat ride from Port Royal in Kingston can take you to one of several white-sand cays. These small islands are an ideal option for enjoying a day of sun and sand near Kingston, since the city itself doesn’t have a proper beach. These photos are from near Maiden Cay during a post-Carnival event. It was lively on land, but I’m told that this small sand island is a much more quiet destination during the rest of the year. 
Have Packing Anxiety? This Customizable Spreadsheet Is All You Need to Ease Your Mind
No matter if you have the best packing cubes in the world, the backpack with the most practical pockets, and the most functional check-in suitcase, when it comes to packing, you’re still vulnerable to forgetting some of the most essential stuff. Sometimes it’s something crucial but easily replaceable like your toothbrush, and sometimes it’s something that will be tough to live without and will cost you a bundle to buy again, like your laptop charger, or, God forbid, your headphones.
One way to stay on top of it all is to grab a piece of scrap paper and a pen and make a list of everything you’ll need for an upcoming trip, adding a little check mark beside each item once it’s in your luggage. But if you travel frequently, you might want to take a leaf out of Tiktok’s luke.scarpino’s book and have an extremely thorough packing Google sheet that you can use over and over again. Who knew Tiktok was so chockfull of geniuses?
@luke.scarpino Is how i pack for vacation normal? #travel #productive #excel #googlesheets #finance #packing #suitcase ♬ original sound – Luke Scarpino
Scarpino’s Google sheet does not only list all the things he needs to pack but it also includes a color-coded drop-down menu of where each item must go: toiletry bag, backpack, duffle, checked suitcase, and even “on person” for the stuff that he needs to have in his pockets. The icing on the cake, however, is probably the section of the Google sheet that tells him the packing ratio of each bag. Once he hits 100 percent, he knows he’s done.
Some might think that Scarpino’s too fussy for his own good, but you have to give it to him: He’s one organized traveler who’s pretty unlikely to forget the essentials. And as one of his viewers commented, “The fun thing is if you use this same list when it is time to return home, you will never forget something at a hotel again.”
Kindly, Scarpino has shared his packing list template with the world, making it available for free on his online shop. You can download it and edit it to suit your own packing needs — Scarpino added some instructions to help you out in the process. You’ll never forget your toothbrush ever again.
You Can See the Northern Lights From Michigan’s First Dark Sky Sanctuary
The Great Lakes State just received its first International Dark Sky Sanctuary certification. Earlier this month, DarkSky International recognized northern Michigan’s Beaver Island State Wildlife Research Area, which spans 9,425 acres of Beaver Island in Lake Michigan, for its “exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights.”
The research area was certified as a Dark Sky Sanctuary (rather than a Dark Sky Park or Reserve) due to its relatively isolated location. Sanctuary designations are generally designed to promote awareness for properties whose remoteness limits their risk of light pollution but also inhibits public outreach efforts. Beaver Island, the largest island in Lake Michigan, is only reachable by ferry or plane, weather permitting. That the island is a wildlife research area, and therefore conserved for its natural and scientific value, also qualifies it as a Dark Sky Sanctuary.
In addition to hosting a newly minted International Dark Sky Sanctuary, Beaver Island falls within UNESCO’s Obtawaing Biosphere. While more than 97 percent of the sanctuary is overseen by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Central Michigan University oversees 230 acres as a Biological Research Area.
But at the end of the day, what unites all International Dark Sky properties is their extraordinary night skies. On Beaver Island, any number of celestial bodies and phenomena are visible at night, from various constellations and galaxies to meteor showers and the Milky Way. Two particularly special presences are that of the northern lights and zodiacal light, a rare and ethereal astronomical occurrence that occurs when soft sunlight reflects interplanetary dust.
An increasingly popular stargazing destination, Beaver Island at large may be due for an International Dark Sky certification one day, beyond the research area, says Dark Sky Places Program Manager Amber Harrison.
“Through education and advocacy, these efforts protect the natural and cultural setting of the island against the threat of increased growth,” says Harrison of the research area’s International Dark Sky Sanctuary designation in the previously linked release by DarkSky International. Harrison adds, “I am excited to continue our work towards growing the certification area to include the full island in the future.”
Kevin Boyle, Vice President of the Beaver Island Association, agrees, noting, “Eventually, we hope to expand the sanctuary’s boundaries to include the entire archipelago.”
Tortuga Knocked $100 Off Its Newest Travel Backpack, And It’s a Game Changer
I’ve made no secret of my affection for Tortuga travel backpacks. As a travel editor, I’ve hauled a Setout around the globe for over six years with the complete satisfaction that comes from a bag that easily zips no matter how full it is. On April 17, the brand released its newest travel backpack, the Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite 40L, as a lighter alternative to its popular Travel Backpack, and it’s available now for $250 via the company’s website.
We hope you love the Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite 40L! 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.
Why the Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite 40L is worth it
Photo: Tortuga
Photo: Tortuga
Photo: TortugaIn addition to being one pound lighter and $100 cheaper than its girthier counterpart, the Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite 40L offers slightly different specs. It’s made of 630D CORDURA® re/cor
RN6 nylon, has multiple zipped compartments that allow for a bit of bulge without sacrificing “ease of zip,” and is guaranteed carry-on size. It embraces the Tortuga playbook of opening like a clamshell so you can pack it like a suitcase, but retaining comfortable straps for backpack-style carrying. The tight-fitting water bottle holder also remains part of this pack. All this and it’s still designed for trips of longer than a week. The photo collage above demonstrates its features.
The Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite 40L features a hip belt designed to take 80 percent of the strain off your shoulders, so you can walk with it through big airports or across city centers without throwing out your back. The exterior of the pack is water-resistant, so no big deal if you get caught in a rainstorm while heading to the hotel or Airbnb. This is the age of remote work, and the pack accommodates this with a dedicated laptop sleeve and a surrounding compartment that holds chargers, headphones, and other remote work accessories.
What really sets this pack apart, however, is that it fits into the overhead bin even on most smaller regional jets. In all my time traveling with a Tortuga pack, I’ve never had issues getting it through security or past gate agents as a carry-on – in fact, on multiple occasions airport staff has complimented the pack as the most efficient they’ve seen.
The Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite 40L is available now for $250 and includes free shipping. That means you can order today and have the pack in plenty of time for your next trip. Always remember the golden rule – though shalt not roll.
5 of the 10 Busiest Airports in the World Are in the US, For Now
On April 15, The Airports Council International (ACI) World unveiled some interesting trends in global air travel with their list of busiest airports in the world in 2023. The findings showcase the world’s magnificent (and sometimes maddening) hubs that keep the globe in motion and a significant uptick in air travel since the pandemic.
Within the top 10 busiest airports were five major hubs in the US: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Denver International Airport (DEN), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD).
ACI says across the globe close to 8.5 billion people took to the air, demonstrating a staggering recovery of 93.8 percent from pre-pandemic levels.
The uptick in international flights was another key takeaway, indicating we are again comfortable to go further than domestic destinations.
ACI World Director General Luis Felipe de Oliveira applauds airports for their ability to adapt to the “ever-evolving landscape,” withstanding everything from extreme weather events due to climate change to challenges presented by global pandemics.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport retained its crown as the world’s busiest airport based on passenger traffic. It processed a staggering 104,635,151 passengers. This represents a nearly 12 percent increase compared to 2022 and is just over five percent shy of pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
Dubai International Airport (DXB) took second place for the first time and emerged as the busiest international airport in 2023. This is no surprise. Dubai’s strategic location and focus on international travel continue to make it a major hub. The airport handled a whopping 86,994,365 passengers last year.
The most significant jump in the top 10 rankings is recorded for Tokyo Haneda (HND), leaping from the sixteenth position in 2022 to the fifth spot in 2023.
There was also a recovery in traffic in Europe. London Heathrow Airport (LHR) witnessed a strong rebound, up from eighth position to fourth with 79,183,364 passengers. It represents a significant increase from 2022, also a return to near pre-pandemic levels. Istanbul Airport (IST) retained its spot with 76,027,321 passengers.
The top ten airports managed 10 percent of global traffic in 2023. Here’s a list of those that ranked:
1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), 104,635,151 passengers2. Dubai International Airport (DXB), 86,994,365 passengers3. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), 81,755,538 passengers4. London’s Heathrow Airport (LHR), 79,183,364 passengers5. Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (HND), 78,719,302 passengers6. Denver International Airport (DEN), 77,837,917 passengers7. Istanbul Airport (IST), 76,027,321 passengers8. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), 75,050,875 passengers9. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), 73,894,226 passengers10. New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), 72,214,841 passengersThe ACI World’s findings paint a picture of a recovering air travel industry, with a clear shift towards international travel, welcome news for aviation and the travel industry.
This Portofino Coast Hotel Epitomizes The Best of the Italian Riviera
No, it’s not a typo, and yes, the Grand Hotel Bristol is as close as you’ll get to everyone’s favorite fictional hotel. Whether the cherry blossom paintwork, dollhouse symmetry, and name were intentional or coincidental is a mystery. One thing is certain: you’ll be the main character at this luxury hotel in the northwest Italian Riviera.
The Grand Hotel Bristol Spa Resort springs out from a tangle of cypresses and azaleas on the azure Portofino Coast. Wake up to vistas sweeping across the Gulf of Tigullio and the Ligurian Sea from the best rooms or get your money’s worth of views by the pool with the summer rays on your neck. Service is attentive and between the superb location and outstanding resort facilities, you’ll not struggle to find ways to fill your day.
We hope you love the Grand Hotel Bristol Spa Resort! 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 prime location on the Italian RivieraThere’s nothing alpine about the setting of the Grand Hotel Bristol Spa Resort by R Collection Hotels. This Liberty-style resort is located on the outskirts of Rapallo in the Liguria region of Italy. It’s a 10-minute drive (or 30-minute walk) to the harbor where boats ferry passengers to Portofino and other pretty Italian Riviera towns and catamarans set sail at sunset.
The seaside town itself squeezes a lot of sights into a small area. Once used to shoo away pirates, the 16th-century castle now brings in day trippers by the boatload. Ride the cable car up to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montallegro for epic views and make it back down to the lungomare to partake in the Italian tradition of passeggiata, a pre-dinner stroll.
Genoa and the nearest airport sits 20 miles north along the coast. Cinque Terre is a similar distance in the opposite direction and is a straightforward day trip from Portofino. Group tours give you the choice of hiking or riding the Cinque Terre Express train between the villages. There’s also the option of getting there by boat during summer.
Sea-view rooms and suites at the Grand Hotel BristolPhoto: Booking
Photo: Booking
Photo: BookingThis five-star spa resort comprises 69 rooms and 11 suites, many of which grant gulf views. All units have been recently refurbished and feature hardwood flooring, upholstered beds, and an ambient pastel color scheme. Most rooms have air conditioning and coffee makers and there are options to accommodate couples and families.
Deluxe seafront rooms come with a French balcony and a private bathroom with a tub. Junior suites have comfortable seating areas and panoramic windows to maximize the Italian Riviera scenery. The most exclusive suites come with larger balconies or even a free-standing private hot tub.
Make time for me timeSlide straight into vacation mode at this luxury hotel with a huge swimming pool, a private beach club, and a much-hyped spa.
Teetering off the rocky cliffside, the Marina di Bardi Beach Club is a three-minute journey by complimentary shuttle. All facilities are for the exclusive use of hotel guests and you can enjoy a meal or cocktail with a view from the restaurant and bar in between dips.
The spa is of such caliber that it wriggled its way into the hotel’s name. Erre Spa has an indoor pool, sauna, ice wall, Turkish and Mediterranean baths, hydrotherapy suites, emotional showers, and multisensory relaxation zones. If these aren’t quite enough to banish the tension of a long-haul flight, you can browse a hefty list of massage, body, and face treatments delivered with natural ingredients such as cocoa butter and citrus. Therapists are trained with the latest technologies and techniques.
General admission to the spa at Grand Hotel Bristol Spa Resort by R Collection Hotels costs €58 (around $63) per person. Choose to bounce between the amenities at leisure or devise a bespoke wellness path with one of the technicians.
Italian and Ligurian cuisine with a view
Photo: Booking
Photo: Booking
Photo: BookingThe closest off-site restaurants are an easy 10-minute walk from the hotel and you can select from three restaurants at the Grand Hotel Bristol Spa Resort. Breakfast is a continental buffet of fresh fruits, cereals, pastries, and cold cuts served on the terrace.
Le Cupole dishes up Michelin-starred fare from Liguria and other regions of Italy. Pansotti al Preboggion – Ligurian cheese-stuffed pasta flecked with herbs – is the plate to order. It pairs deliciously with the regional white wines made from Vermentino (Pigato) grapes. La Veranda has a more down-to-earth vibe with shareable plates of toasted octopus and salted cod followed by homestyle pasta and risotto.
Last but not least, The Flamingo is the poolside bar serving Ligurian focaccia and pizza that’s far too good to share.
A Taylor Swift Autograph, Pet Turtle, and Fart Sensor Top the 50 Strangest Things Left in an Uber Last Year
Travelers tend to carry a lot of very bizarre items in their luggage. Unclaimed Baggage, a store in Alabama that collects unclaimed lost luggage from domestic airlines and sells what’s inside, has made that very clear in their report of the weirdest stuff found in 2023. I, myself, have flown from with a two-foot-tall colorful garden gnome in my suitcase once, and I’m very glad nobody found out. I don’t know how I would have explained it without sounding like I had lost my mind. But apparently, people don’t need to be flying to be carrying kooky stuff with them. Uber drivers find all sorts of strange things left behind in their cars by seemingly regular people in need of transportation.
For the eighth year, Uber has published the Uber Lost & Found Index, a report of the things people forgot in drivers’ vehicles in the past year, from the most common to the most unexpected.
The most common items left being in Ubers in the past year are:
ClothingLuggageHeadphonesWalletJewelryPhone TabletLaptopWatchVapeThe 50 strangest things left behind in Ubers in the past year, as described by their owners, include:
Frontal hair toupeeHot sauce and a breathalyzerI left a leaf in your car that’s much neededTwo containers with spiders in themA Beyoncé fold up fanA tray of meat pieCeramic catJar of oystersA personalized blanket with a picture of me and my dogSmall rat skeleton propCandle that says ‘See you in court’A fake tooth / retainer (it’s a really small plastic piece with a fake tooth in it)Gray tub of surgical implantsPolice-grade handcuffsMy live pet animal turtleWaist beads and a burrito steamerI left expensive blueberries that are special that I need that the store is completely out of. There’s two packages that I absolutely need.My girlfriend’s pregnant pillsSmall box containing a gnomeStandup paddleboard paddlePainting from SeaWorld. It was wrapped up in a roll and I love it.A playbill from the Spamalot show at the Kennedy CenterMy robotBenihana garlic butterContraceptive Plan B from Costco and a BaBylissPRO massager machineA panic buttonA spear and a furry fox tailTaylor Swift autograph. Framed!!!!Fart sensorBravo Con wristbandA #bestdayever foam sign3 feathersFake buttPoster of Hillary ClintonPanty liner and 1000 bucks. That’s all I can rememberSome lotion or my thongMeditation crystalsUndergarments, bread, pack of ham and mayoCardboard cut out pandaStreet sign saying ‘She’s drunk’ and a picture frameMy father’s beard softenerBig sentimental carrying jugPaternity testWWE championship beltHarry Potter wand engraved with name ‘Alexander’Large sticker with a dancing cartoon cat that says ‘Spanky Fest’ on itI might have left my garden fence in the trunkJeep Liberty engine. Please call meI lost my wizard womanThree Japanese ceramic decorative cats – one gold, one black and one pink. All fist-sized.If you’re a regular Uber user, the company’s findings on this year’s lost-and-found trends might help you remember to take your belongings with you next time you use the ride-hailing service. Note that Miami is the city where people forget the most things in Uber; January 21 is the most forgetful day of the year; people tend to leave stuff behind more between 9 PM and 10 PM; and those items are most often red in color.
In the report, Uber explains that “the best way to retrieve a lost item is to call the driver.” However, if it’s your phone you’ve left behind, you can log in to your Uber account from a computer and follow the following step-by-step procedure recommended by Uber:
Open the Uber app and tap “Activity” on the bottom icon menu. Select the trip on which you lost the item.Scroll down to “Find lost item” in the Help section, and then “Contact driver about a lost item.”Enter your phone number to call the driver.If your driver picks up and confirms that your item has been found, coordinate a mutually convenient time and place to meet for its return to you.If your driver doesn’t pick up, leave a detailed voicemail describing your item and the best way to contact you.More like thisWhere to Buy All the Fancy Items the TSA Confiscated From Other People for Cheap
April 16, 2024
Where to Play, Eat, and Stay in Cincinnati If You Love Baseball, Bourbon, Beer, and More
Imagine the yellow brick road is the Ohio River, and it leads to Cincinnati, Ohio. On one side we have America’s oldest professional baseball team, the Cincinnati Reds, as well as trendy restaurants and a vibrant arts community. On the other side, we have the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and more fantastic restaurants and bars, as well as a history of organized gambling, casinos, and strip clubs.
Welcome to this Midwest region that sparkles with colorful murals, James Beard-nominated chefs, a passion for the Reds, a love for the arts, award-winning craft breweries, creative cocktails, and a network of bourbon destinations for those who like it neat or on the rocks. Here’s why now is a perfect time to visit Cincinnati.
Things to do CincinnatiThe B-Line
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
Did you know that 95 percent of the world’s bourbon is made in Kentucky? That‘s why the Covington area — just over the Ohio River and across from Cincinnati — is known as the “Official Gateway to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.” To help you explore the area, there’s a self-guided passport program known as The B-Line.
The B-Line includes seven Kentucky Bourbon Trail craft bourbon distilleries, nine bourbon-centric bars (each with at least 100 different bourbons), and nine restaurants (each with at least 50 bourbons and at least one bourbon-infused menu item). Check in at each stop and get a stamp to win some cool swag.
My favorite stop: The Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar on Covington’s Main Street, which serves a Mystery Whiskey Wheel of shots for $5 on Wednesday nights. You might get lucky to sample a rare find from its collection of 1,000 whiskeys, which includes 700 bourbons.
The B-Line: 50 E. River Center Blvd.. Suite 1100, Covington, KY 41011
Great American Ballpark
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
This beautiful ballpark on the banks of the Ohio River was erected in 2003, replacing the old Riverfront Stadium and paving the way for today’s modern stadium with the amenities that today’s fans expect. I was fortunate to visit on Opening Day 2024, and the stadium still maintains its distinct charm, with great views of the game and cityscape, an incredible video scoreboard, and more than 50 beers on tap, including local favorites like Rhinegeist’s Homer IPA and Moerlein’s Lager.
You can also sample another Cincinnati tradition at the ballpark: Skyline Chili. I recommend the 3-Way — steamed spaghetti covered with Skyline’s secret-recipe chili and topped with a mound of shredded cheddar cheese — or the famous Coney Dogs, which also come topped with loads of cheddar. That’s what they do in Cincinnati. Pro tip for families: All-You-Can-Eat Stands offer unlimited sodas, popcorn, peanuts, chips, and five hot dogs for just $25 per person in 2024.
Great American Ballpark: 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame & Museum
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
The Cincinnati Reds lay claim to being the first professional baseball team in the US, starting as the Cincinnati Red Stockings in 1869. They were the first team to pay players, which means they were so good that they went 57-0 that inaugural season. They were also charter members of the National League when it formed in 1876 but were kicked out for almost a decade for selling beer and having games on Sundays.
You can learn more about the team’s history inside the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame & Museum, which is the largest team museum in Major League Baseball at 16,000 square feet. It houses historical, interactive, and educational exhibits, highlighting the rich and storied tradition of the Reds. Any fan of the Big Red Machine (World Series titles in 1975 & 1976) will marvel at the life-size statues of their childhood heroes.
Inside the museum, which shares an address with the Great American Ballpark, you’ll also find baseballs representing 4,256 hits by Hall of Fame member Pete Rose, baseball bats used by the team’s legendary home-run hitters such as Johnny Bench and George Foster, and interactive displays where you can call a game on radio or TV. Plus, Great American Ballpark tours are available. It’s worth the price of admission for any baseball fan.
Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame & Museum: 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
The Banks Cincy
Photo: Christian Hinkle/Shutterstock
The Cincinnati Reds and Cincinnati Bengals stadiums bookend an area called The Banks. It’s adjacent to Smale Riverfront Park, which is recognized as one of the best river walks in the country and offers a beautiful view of the famed Roebling Suspension Bridge (a precursor to the Brooklyn Bridge) along with a bevy of establishments for dining and meeting up with friends for pre- and post-game drinks.
I was a little cramped walking to Great American Ballpark with more than 46,000 fans trying to get to the game on Opening Day, but it was worth it. Along with a scenic view of the bridge that joins Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, here you’ll find plenty of shopping, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and Moerlein Lager House, which has a brewing history dating back to 1853 in Cincinnati’s famous Over-the-Rhine (OTR) neighborhood.
The Banks Cincy: 4 Beech Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45208
ArtWorks Mural Tour
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
Whether it’s a self-guided tour or one led by a volunteer at ArtWorks, you’ll be in awe of the 300-plus public murals scattered throughout the city along historic streets. Since 2007, ArtWorks has created downtown-area monumental murals, all with the help of area students. As a one-time artist myself, I was inspired by the detail in these murals that speak of the city’s history. You’ll learn about Cincinnati’s beloved Fiona the hippo at her home in the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. The mural depicts her at play while her mother, Bibi, keeps watch nearby. My favorite on the walking tour was “Cincinnati Toy Heritage,” which tells the legacy of Kenner Toys, a Cincinnati-based toy company founded in 1947, as it shows a Care Bear, C3PO, Strawberry Shortcake, and others.
ArtWorks Mural Tour: 2460 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45206
Queen City Underground Tour
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
Hosted by American Legacy Tours, this walking tour provides a great overview of the city’s history and its OTR district. The well-preserved buildings of 19th-century Italianate architecture, which dominated the urban Cincinnati housing boom between 1860 and 1880, was home to a large number of German immigrants. A canal separated the city at the time, and the area was referred to as “over the Rhine.”
On the tour, you’ll dig deep into Cincinnati’s past and hear stories from a time when more than 130 saloons, bars, and beer gardens covered the district. I also got to descend below the city streets to explore underground lagering tunnels, which local breweries used at one time to hoist up barrels below. Today the area is home to craft breweries, trendy gastropubs, and stylish bars — plus, Findlay Market.
Queen City Underground Tour: 1332 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Newport Gangster Tour
Photo: CiEll/Shutterstock
This tour takes you over the Ohio River to Newport, Kentucky, which has a storied past as a Prohibition-era bootlegging capital and America’s first major gambling city. It was Vegas before Vegas. Also operated by American Legacy Tours, it begins at The Syndicate, where you’re transported to a time of gangsters, brothels, strip clubs, and casinos — all in one place. Celebrities hung out here, and local legends lived and died here. That history also preserved time-honored distilling traditions from bootlegging for future generations of bourbon makers.
Newport Gangster Tour: The Syndicate, 18 E. Fifth St., Newport, KY 41071
Where to eat and drink in CincinnatiFindlay Market
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
Located in OTR, which is known for its German heritage, Findlay Market opened in 1855 and is Ohio’s oldest continuously operating public market. It is a foodie lover’s paradise with more than 50 full-time merchants selling meat, fish, poultry, produce, flowers, cheese, deli, international foods, and more.
Everyone shops at Findlay Market — in fact, I bumped into James Beard-nominated chef Jose Salazar (of Cincinnati’s Mita’s restaurant) while in line at Sen by Kiki where they were freshly shucking oysters and serving up some of the best ceviche I’ve had outside of Mexico. Shout out to Chef Hideki Harada (also a James Beard-nominated chef) for making this one of my favorite stops on my recent trip.
Also at Findlay Market, I discovered the signature Bourbon Caramel banana pudding at Makers Bakers Co., which might be the world’s best. They had to drag me out of there, but only after grabbing a cinnamon roll drenched in vanilla icing to go.
Findlay Market: 1801 Race St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Eckerlin Meats
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
While near Findlay Market, I also stopped at Eckerlin Meats, which has been in business since 1852. Sixth generation owner Josh Lillis introduced me to my first Goetta experience. What the heck is Goetta? Imagine a lof of beef and pork that’s grounded together with steel cut pinhead oats, onions, and distinct spices.
“Only in Cincinnati,” Lillis said. “Back in those days the Germans never threw anything out.” Today the local tradition continues with local dishes (sliders, omelets, etc.) and even a Goetta Day. If you ask me, it’s pretty tasty, once you get past the oats.
Eckerlin Meats: 1819 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Somerset
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
Located in OTR, Somerset features two bars — one in a glass-roofed conservatory and another in a cozy lounge with imported antique pieces that will intrigue the world traveler. Even though I love bourbon, I had to try the signature Ube Margarita, a heavenly, slightly sweet, purple-colored drink (thanks to the Ube yam) that just screamed “don’t stop at just one!”
Somerset: 139 E. McMicken St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Nolia Kitchen
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
Sometimes you’re not so sure if rave reviews for a new restaurant are all hype or truly one-of-a-kind. In the case of Chef Jeff Harris, a recent James Beard Award finalist for Best New Restaurant, it’s the latter. His take on New Orleans’ Ninth Ward cuisine is inspired by simplicity, creativity, and unexpected surprises.
I recommend the River Catfish (topped with crawfish, bathed in a rustic meunière sauce, and served on grits), but his menu is always changing, he said, drawing upon regional favorites from the South. One thing that won’t leave the menu is the skillet cornbread — a must-eat. Make reservations in advance.
Nolia Kitchen: 1405 Clay St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Ghost Baby
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
Housed in half-domed tunnels formerly used by a Cincinnati brewing company to lager its beer, Ghost Baby is one of the reasons OTR is such a cool destination. Difficult to find (search for a purple light above the doorway entrance), it has a speakeasy vibe and is located four stories under Vine Street. Frilly lamps dot the walls, and the dimly lit environment makes it a perfect space for live music and a smokey drink. The Ghost’s Favorite cocktail with Bulleit Bourbon is inspired by the Old Fashioned and Manhattan, and it comes smoked with cherry wood. The presentation alone wins you over before the drink kisses your lips.
Ghost Baby: 1311 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Sugar n’ Spice Diner
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
Have you ever had “wispy thin” pancakes? My first thought when they came to my table was to roll them up like a taquito and dip them in my maple syrup and butter. As advertised, these thin slices of fried batter are light, airy, and near perfection. The breakfast and lunch menu has changed little since it was established in 1941. And the OTR location is in a retro diner. Everyone leaves happy with a rubber duckie toy, which comes out in a huge tray so you can pick one to fit your personality.
Sugar n’ Spice Diner: 1311 1203 Sycamore St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Maplewood Kitchen & Bar
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
What’s a California-style breakfast and lunch cafe? At Maplewood, it means avocado toast, cold-pressed juice, grass-fed butter, and locally roasted coffee. But the most popular item on the menu is the nationally famous lemon ricotta pancakes, which are extremely balanced and not overly sweet. I woke up dreaming of them the next day.
Maplewood Kitchen & Bar: 525 Race St., Cincinnati OH 45202
Lil’s Kitchen and Roebling Point Books & Coffee
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
Known for its incredible sandwiches and outreach to the LGBTQ community, the motto behind this bookstore slash breakfast nook is “bridging books, beans, and being.” Lil’s Kitchen is located at Roebling Point Books & Coffee’s Dayton and Newport stores, but you’ll also find a Roebling Point Books location in Covington, Kentucky, a few steps from the Roebling Suspension Bridge. As for sandwiches, The Lillian is a must — lox, chive spread, capers, red onion, dill, and everything seasoning on a challah roll. The menu also features pastries, smoothies, toasts, and egg and cheese sandwiches.
Lil’s Kitchen and Roebling Point Books & Coffee: 301 Sixth Ave., Dayton, KY 41074
Smoke Justis
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
Named after a legendary local pitcher, this restaurant and bourbon bar is in the Roebling Point neighborhood of Covington, near Roebling Bridge. Along with lip-smacking good wings and BBQ, the impressive bar has one of the largest bourbon collections in the region. You can do a tasting, attend special events, or hang out a few short steps from the Ohio River. Pro tip: Park here for a Reds game, walk over the bridge, and enjoy a pre- or post-game meal.
(Walter “Smoke” Justis is in the Cooperstown Hall of Fame for throwing four no-hitters in the minor leagues. He played briefly for the Detroit Tigers but settled in as a player for the Covington Blue Sox in the old Federal League.)
Smoke Justis: 302 Court St., Covington, KY 41011
Wenzel Whiskey
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
Have you ever tried a “bourbon blending” experience? Uniquely personal and tons of fun, blending allows customers with any level of expertise to blend bourbons with a trained professional. Guests are able to pull (or “thieve”) bourbon directly from various barrels sourced from distilleries across the US and blend them together to craft something fitting their budget and palate preferences.
Wenzel Whiskey: 15 Tobacco Alley, Covington, KY 41011
Aperture
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
Chef Jordan Anthony-Brown’s long-awaited Aperture restaurant opened its doors at the tail end of 2023. The menu is heavily influenced by traditions of the broader Mediterranean region — Southern France, Italy, Greece, and Levant, which means ingredients such as ras el hanout, tahini and harissa find their way to this seasonal menu of simple pastas, proteins, and plenty of veggies. For example, the lamb shoulder is flavored with a smoky and peppery harissa seasoning and served with a crispy Persian rice called tahdig. The restaurant also offers an elevated cocktail menu. My dining partner loved the “I’m Her,” a version of a Manhattan with a little pomegranate and a special vermouth from the Piedmont region of Italy.
Aperture: 900 E. McMillan St., Cincinnati, OH 45206
Revival Vintage Bottle Shop
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
Ever wonder what a 1980s bottle of Maker’s Mark tastes like versus a 1990s bottle? At Revival in downtown Covington, Kentucky, bourbon enthusiasts and newcomers can experience a tasting bar and bottle shop that merges more than a century of bourbon history into a one-of-a-kind experience. One of the largest vintage spirits collections in the country, Revival is the passion project of Brad “Dusty” Bonds who carefully curates a collection of rare and vintage bottles and invites visitors to sample some pretty interesting bourbons.
Revival Vintage Bottle Shop: 5 E 8th St, Covington, KY 41011
Lisse Steakhuis
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
Lisse Steakhuis serves the best of both worlds: steak and drinks. The Dutch-American restaurant is named in tribute to owner Hans Philippo’s hometown of Lisse, Holland, and the emphasis is on fresh and local. The beef is sourced solely from Philippo’s family-run Holland Farms in Williamstown, Kentucky, which integrates vertical farming and sustainability. The grass-fed beef is prime, Black Angus, dry-aged for 28-40 days. The restaurant has also recently incorporated Wagyu beef.
All this means that everything on the menu is perfection, from the meatball to the Beef Wellington. My curated five-course meal was a whammy kiss to the senses, especially when the first pairing kicked it off with a beet salad paired with an “off-beet” whiskey sour — definitely go for drink pairings if you’re looking to have a magical night.
Lisse Steakhuis: 530 Main St., Covington, KY 41011
Samuel Adams Cincinnati Taproom
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
Did you know that Sam Adams craft beer was born in Cincinnati? As the story goes, owner/brewer Jim Koch, a native of Cincinnati, approached his father back in 1984 about an idea to create a uniquely American beer that would take on popular imports. The recipe for Boston Lager came from a family recipe. In 1997, Koch purchased the Hudepohl-Schoenling brewery on Central Parkway (the original canal that became OTR), where today the Samuel Adams Cincinnati Brewery produces Sam Adams beers.
Samuel Adams Cincinnati Taproom: 1727 Logan St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Braxton Brewing Company
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
With four locations, including one downtown in the heart of Pendleton/OTR, this is a great spot to catch the big game, enjoy a cocktail, or check out one of the 24 rotating beers on tap. The original location in Covington (which opened in 2015) sports a massive and impressive rooftop bar.
But you don’t have to wait long to taste the famous “Garage Beer” lager (4% ABV) if you’re flying into Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). There, you’ll find a restaurant/bar that serves about 12 different beers, including a sampler flight. Trust me, the Garage Beer is an easy one to throw back any time of the day. Oh, and make sure to try Storm, a cream ale with malty notes and subtle corn flavors. It’s one of the best I’ve ever tried.
Braxton Brewing Company: 27 W. 7th St., Covington, KY 41011
Where to stay in Cincinnati
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
Over the years, I’ve stayed at a variety of hotels in downtown Cincinnati and Covington, Kentucky, whether going to Reds games or in town for a bourbon tour. You’ll find a variety of places to fit your budget and needs with hotels, bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and campgrounds in the area.
One standout hotel is the 21c Museum Hotel, situated in the heart of downtown Cincinnati, which means that it’s walking distance to the major sporting venues, as well as OTR. The 21c Museum Hotel is a multi-venue contemporary art museum, an award-winning 156-room boutique hotel, and home of Metropole restaurant. The 21c features changing art exhibits, a seasonal rooftop deck, a spa, and an iconic yellow penguin mascot. It’s also adjacent to the Contemporary Arts Center.
Oh, and just to make sure you feel immediately welcomed, ask about the free bourbon tasting for guests when you check in at the front desk. It’s a nice touch to a perfect stay.
21c Museum Hotel: 609 Walnut St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
How to get around Cincinnati
Photo: John D. Gonzalez
In addition to all the typical ways to get around a city, the Connector streetcar is a fun and free way to navigate downtown Cincinnati on a 3.6-mile loop that spans from OTR to The Banks. All you have to do is hop on and hop off at select areas, such as the Great American Ballpark, downtown hotels, Hard Rock Casino, and others. The Connector Streetcar is a fully electric mode of transportation, so it’s an environmentally friendly way to explore Cincinnati. It operates 365 days a year and follows a core schedule each day, with extended service hours for select events. See the map here.
This Is the Best Way for Travelers to See the UK by Train
The rail network in the UK is such a vast and well-oiled machine that opting to travel by train is a no-brainer — especially if you don’t feel like renting a car and driving on the left side of the road. Travelers who plan to travel around England, Wales, and Scotland extensively can make the process a lot more convenient and affordable by purchasing a BritRail Pass. A BritRail Pass provides non-UK residents unlimited train travel within the UK for a limited period of time of the traveler’s choosing. Here’s how it works.
What kind of BritRail Pass is best for me?What train routes does the BritRail Pass cover?What trains and routes does the BritRail Pass not cover?Does the BritRail Pass include sleeper trains?How much does a BritRail Pass cost?How can I purchase a BritRail Pass?What is the difference between a BritRail Pass and a Eurail Pass?What kind of BritRail Pass is best for me?There are six types of BritRail Pass that cover different geographical areas of the country to fit every traveler’s plan:
The general BritRail Pass which covers the entirety of the countryThe BritRail England Pass which covers train travel in England onlyThe BritRail London Plus Pass which covers train travel in London and the south east of EnglandThe BritRail Spirit of Scotland Pass which covers train travel in Scotland onlyThe BritRail Scottish Highlands Pass which allows for train travel only in Scotland’s Highlands regionThe BritRail South West Pass which allows for train travel in the south west of EnglandWhat train routes does the BritRail Pass cover?The BritRail Pass covers large swathes of the country’s rail network, from the very south of England to the very north of Scotland. The map below displays the rail routes covered by the various passes in details. The general BritRail Pass covers the entirely of the network. (A zoomable version of this map is available here.)
Photo: Britrail
Depending on which pass you opt for, your pass might also includes travel on board three airport trains: the Heathrow Express, Gatwick Express, and Stansted Express.
What trains and routes does the BritRail Pass not cover?The BritRail Pass does not work on the Eurostar, the train that links London to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam, nor does it work on the London Underground. The BritRail Pass only covers trains operators comprised under the National Rail network of Great Britain, all of which are listed here.
Does the BritRail Pass include sleeper trains?
Photo: Joe Dunckley/Shutterstock
Depending on the geographical area covered by your pass, it may include the famous Caledonian Sleeper (London to Scotland) and the Night Riviera Sleeper (London to Penzance). Note that reservations are necessary for both these trains.
How much does a BritRail Pass cost?The price of a BritRail Pass varies according to various factors: The type of pass you choose (see above), the class of service you want (first or second class), the season (low in winter or high in the rest of the year), as well as the duration of the validity of the pass.
The BritRail Pass, BritRail England Pass, BritRail London Plus Pass, and BritRail South West Pass offer five flexible options (two days, three days, four days, and eight day, all valid within one month, as well as 15 days, valid within two months), and seven consecutive options (two days, three days, four days, and eight day, 15 days, 22 days, and one month).
The BritRail Spirit of Scotland Pass has two flexible options: four days valid within eight days, or eight days valid within 15 days. The BritRail Scottish Highlands Pass has a flexible option of four days valid within eight days.
The general BritRail Pass, which covers the entire network mapped above starts at $240 for a flexible two-day pass in second class in high season ($356 in first class), and goes all the way to $1117 for a consecutive one-month pass in second class ($1681 in first class) at the same time of the year.
Note that there are discounts for children, youth, and seniors.
How can I purchase a BritRail Pass?You can purchase your BritRail pass online from three different providers: ACP Rail International, International Rail, and TrainLine.
Your pass cannot be purchased while in the UK, it must be purchased when you are out of the country. Your pass can be purchased up to six months in advance of the start of your train trip.
You may choose between a paper version of the pass or an e-version called the M-Pass (Mobile Pass). Both are priced the same, but the M-Pass will save you postage fees. Also, while paper passes need to be validated at a ticket office by stamp to be usable, the M-Pass is ready to go as soon as it’s downloaded.
What is the difference between a BritRail Pass and a Eurail Pass?
Photo: Ugi-Creative/Shutterstock
BritRail passes only work in the UK while Eurail passes work in 33 countries in Europe, including the UK. If you opt to buy a one-country Eurail Pass from the Eurail website, you’ll be redirected to the BritRail Pass website.
Lufthansa’s New Allegris Program Brings Customization to the Forefront For the Most Personalized Flight Experience
Frequent flyers know that seat selection is important. That said, there’s not typically a whole lot of customization other than the broader class designation and picking between aisle or window (or worse, getting stuck with only middle seat options). Lufthansa is changing that with an expansive new program called Lufthansa Allegris, which starts on May 1 with a flight from Munich to Vancouver, Canada.
Designed for long-haul routes, Lufthansa Allegris allows travelers to break down exactly the type of seat they want. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach of economy, premium economy, business, and first class, Lufthansa’s Allegris flights have specific options for what travelers are looking for. There are seven options in business class alone, for example, and detailed information for anyone looking to make smart decisions on getting the best flight experience they need.
The program is available on Airbus A350 planes, and Toronto, Chicago, and Montreal are all on the list of future Allegris routes in 2024.
It’s the type of personalization that travelers have come to expect in other aspects of travel, but don’t get to see in the air. At the highest end, there’s the new first class with high partitions and a generous amount of personal space in the suite (not to mention a personal wardrobe with a large mirror and extra-wide seats that can turn into a bed at night). The first class suite plus has two separately controllable extra-wide seats that can lay into a single or double bed, as well as a 43-inch monitor with 4K quality.
Lufthansa Allegra business class has seven different options, all with high seat shells for privacy; an 18-inch, 4K monitor; lockable storage compartments; and Bluetooth capabilities so you can connect your headphones. In business class, there’s sure to be an option that fits your needs among the choices. The extra long bed option, for example, has a 2.2-meter-long bed, while one of the privacy seat options has a place for a baby right up next to the seat. Travelers needing to get some work done will appreciate the extra space seat, which has more storage and working space.
Even economy travelers get in on the benefits of Lufthansa’s new seat designs on Allegra flights. Premium economy class seats are specially designed to provide plenty of privacy and the seats move without disturbing the people around you — and have a 39-inch seat pitch (the average for airlines based in the United States, by comparison, is around 32 inches). Leather armrests and a coat hook are other extra touches that justify the upgrade from standard economy. For anyone looking to capitalize on the lower price of economy class while still getting some extra space, Lufthansa Allegra has a program called economy class free neighbor seat, which allows travelers to book an adjacent seat that’s guaranteed to remain empty.
The first flight with Allegris options departs on May 1, and the wide selection of options is visible in all booking channels. For future flights, passengers can see if their plane has the Allegris product three weeks before departure. With customizations like these, you may start to wonder why the flying experience has been the way it is for so long.
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