Matador Network's Blog, page 178
April 3, 2024
NYC Hotel Charges a Daily $30 ‘Curation Fee’ for Things Like WiFi and One Happy Hour Wine
Hidden fees have long been a problem across the travel industry, from airlines, to concert and sporting event tickets, to hotels and short term rentals. So much so that President Joe Biden’s administration introduced legislation to curb what they call “junk fees” to make the true cost of things more transparent.
MADE Hotel in New York City seems to have taken the approach that it’s not the fees themselves that are the problem, but the phrasing used to describe them. Instead of a convenience fee or anything similar, MADE calls the $30 per day addition (plus tax) a “curation fee.” New Yorker writer Kyle Chayka recently drew attention to the extra fee for guests specifically for how it’s described.
"curation fee" at a hotel pic.twitter.com/XwuisgJXiq
— Kyle Chayka (@chaykak) March 21, 2024
To be fair, at least MADE Hotel makes it clear what that “curation fee” covers: coffee or tea from on-site Paper coffeeshop, a glass of wine during the nightly hotel happy hour from 5 PM to 6 PM, one Blink Fitness Gym pass per day, WiFi, and bikes that are available on a first come, first served basis. It also covers access to Good Behavior, which at first had me thinking that the hotel guarantees guests are all civil people (except at private events), but really just refers to the plant-filled rooftop bar named Good Behavior.
Whether guests want this “curation” or not, they’re still paying for it. Yes, even if all of the bikes are taken, you’re not a gym person, and you never make it to the tight happy hour window for a single glass of wine. On Google Maps, reviewers have noted that Good Behavior allows walk-ins, so isn’t limited just to hotel guests paying extra for access. Maybe this is beside the point, but none of these things really fit the definition of curation: “to pull together, sift through, and select for presentation.”
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that I learned about the MADE Hotel curation fee from Chayka. He’s an expert in curation whose writing is worth following for anyone interested in the way our world works, from design trends to how the internet shapes the way we live. His latest book, Filterworld: How Algorithms Flattened Culture, is all about how the online algorithms that control what music we listen to, which social media posts we see first, and what our search results look like has essentially replaced traditional lifestyle curators like editors and writers. It’s not always for the worse, but it’s very often not for the better. His newsletter, One Thing, brings actual tastemaker curation to the forefront.
MADE Hotel’s fee for it’s curation, on the other hand, is just a resort fee by another name.
These are common regardless of where you stay. After all, you’re not just renting a room when you stay somewhere, you’re renting all of the communal aspects of a place as well as the cleaning, amenities (though some amenities carry yet another fee), and upkeep. The fees allow hotels and accommodations sites to list the lower price before added costs, which can impact the order they show up in travel booking sites. Each hotel search by price that includes MADE effectively doesn’t show the price, it shows the price minus $30 per day plus taxes. Plus, anyone booking a room at MADE Hotel from a third-party site isn’t faced with the curation fee at the time of booking and has to pay the mandatory fee in person when they check in.
It’s similar to how the full price with taxes isn’t shown on grocery store shelves. People see the low price, and by the time the total expense is tallied they’re already checking out and ready to pay.
The practice may feel wrong — why not just bake the cost into the final price rather than trying to game and trick people’s preferences for lower-priced options? — but that doesn’t mean they’re completely ridiculous. Running a hotel is a tough job and the list of the full costs that go into day-to-day operations is extensive. Value is indeed added by the extras that MADE Hotel and others like it provide to guests. What is completely ridiculous is trying to frame what is otherwise an understandable cost addition as some sort of artistic benefit.
The word “curation” deserves to keep its meaning, even if human curation is on the decline. Hopefully museums don’t catch on and start adding their own hidden “curation fees” that guests don’t see until they’re hit with the bill. 
How to Find if Your Flight Will Be Delayed the Day Before You Take Off
No matter what kind of traveler you are, the one who shows up at the airport hours before a flight, or the one who shows up at the last minute, a delayed flight is never good news. The best case scenario is that because of the delay, you’ll have to spend even more time hanging around the airport, purchasing expensive food and sitting on uncomfortable seats (unless you have access to a lounge). The worst case scenario is that you’re going to miss all your connections and you’ll need to rearrange your entire itinerary at the last minute. No matter what, you won’t be enjoying any of it.
There’s a way, however, to check if your flight is delayed even before you leave your home to get to the airport. As explained by flight attendant Ciciinthesky in a TikTok video, there are two websites you need to check before a flight. The first one is the Federal Aviation Administration’s National Airspace System Status, which you can check as early as the night before a morning flight to see all the current airport disruptions that are likely to mess up your trip. The second one is Flight Aware, a flight tracking website that allows you to see where the plane you’ll be riding on is at any time. If the plane you’re supposed to travel on starting at 8 AM from Denver International Airport is still sitting in LaGuardia at 6 AM, you know you won’t be boarding on time and you can chill on the couch for a little while longer.
@ciciinthesky The National Airspace System Status website)nasstatus.faa.gov) serves as a vital travel companion, offering real-time updates on air traffic conditions, airport delays, and weather-related disruptions. Travelers rely on this user-friendly portal to plan their journeys with confidence. It provides essential information on airport delays and airspace congestion, ensuring smooth transitions through the skies. Whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, this website is your go-to source for staying informed and avoiding travel hiccups. With its comprehensive data it's the key to staying in the know on your next trip #flightdelays #travelresources #traveltips2024 #winterweather #winterflying ♬ original sound – CiCi in the Sky
It goes without saying that you also need to check the status of your flight via the airline’s app to see what your options are and what the airline is recommending you do.
If your flight is delayed and you decide to hang out at home a little longer at home before heading out to the airport, check out if you can book a spot in the security line to save time and make things a little less stressful.
Death Valley Vs. Joshua Tree National Parks: Which Is Best for You?
Travelers keen to explore the beauty of southern California (and a small part of Nevada) have two great options when it comes to spending time in the wilderness of the Mojave Desert: Joshua Tree and Death Valley national parks. But since Death Valley is closest to Las Vegas, and Joshua Tree is closest to Los Angeles, you’ll need to know which park you plan to visit before planning your trip.
Joshua Tree is known for its namesake Joshua trees and famous boulders, beckoning photographers, stargazers, hikers, and artists. Death Valley is more about seclusion, remoteness, and the vastness of the desert, with fewer visitors and more extreme adventure options.
If you’re trying to decide between visiting Death Valley vs. Joshua Tree national parks, you’ll want to consider factors like the time of year, what type of hiking trails you prefer, and if you want nearby amenities and hotels, or prefer solo, more self-sufficient travel.
Jump to:Environment and natureSeasonality and when to goBackpacking and backcountry in Death Valley vs. Joshua TreeFrontcountry hiking in the parksDriving tours and accessible activitiesOther major things to do in each parkDeath Valley vs. Joshua Tree campingHotels in and around Death Valley vs Joshua treeGetting to each parkWhat kind of traveler will prefer each park?Nature and environment
Death Valley’s landscapes have been compared to the moon, Star Wars, and Dune. Photo: NPS/Kurt Moses/Public Domain
Joshua Tree and Death Valley national parks, both in southern California, have a lot in common, as they both cover stunning desert landscapes. But each has its own personality.
Joshua Tree’s beauty lies in its rugged, minimalist appeal. The namesake Joshua trees, with their twisted limbs reaching skyward, seem to tower over spiky yuccas and creosote bushes, dwarfed only by the massive piles of rounded boulders. When comparing Death Valley vs. Joshua Tree, Joshua Tree’s high-desert ecosystem is higher above sea level, allowing for the woodlands and pinyon pine forests. It creates a varied landscape, showcasing the variety of the desert. Most animal species in the park are of a smaller size, like desert reptiles and tortoises, but there’s a very small chance of spotting animals like bighorn sheep or bobcats.
Death Valley, on the other hand, is a land of stark extremes and barrenness, not minimalism. The park’s Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America at more than 200 feet below sea level, creating a surreal expanse of cracked salt flats. The surrounding mountains are bare, rocky, and dramatic, creating impressive contrasts throughout the park. Death Valley has more canyons and huge sand dunes, and a sense of wilderness, since more than 90 percent of the park is undeveloped.
The plant life in Death Valley is sparser, clinging to survival in the arid conditions, though desert wildflowers have been known to put on spectacular shows right after snowmelts. Wildlife is similarly limited, though the park does have wild burros (which are not native to the landscape).
Seasonality and when to go
A rare snow covering in Joshua Tree. Photo: dba duplessis/Shutterstock
Joshua Tree and Death Valley, while geographically close, have vastly different weather patterns that impact the best times to visit. If you’re deciding between Death Valley vs. Joshua Tree for a summer trip, pick Joshua Tree. It has more comfortable temperatures in the summer — but that’s not to say it’s cool. Days can get very, very hot in Joshua Tree in the summer, with an average high of about 100 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll want to take it easy during the middle of the day and do any hiking or activities in the evening or early morning.
The fact that 100 degrees is considered more pleasant should tell you how hot Death Valley can get. Summer (June-August) is brutally hot, with highs often exceeding 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Most outdoor activities are unsafe due to the extreme heat, and many facilities, tours, and campgrounds close entirely.
For both parks, the best times to visit are spring and fall. In Joshua Tree, spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) have highs in the mid-80s F and lows in the 40s, making it ideal for camping and outdoor activities. Winter is also nice, with highs in the 60s Fahrenheit (around 15 degrees Celsius) and occasional nights dipping below freezing. It can very occasionally snow. If you’re planning a spring visit, avoid the weeks during California’s spring breaks, as those dates are usually very crowded.
Death Valley has a similar peak season (mid-October to April), and snow is more likely in the winter, which can close some higher-elevation roads. It’s also at its busiest in the spring during wildflower season. So if solitude is a priority, aim for the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) in Joshua Tree, and winter in Death Valley (excluding holidays).
Backpacking and backcountry hiking in Death Valley vs. Joshua Tree
A tent in the backcountry of Joshua Tree National Park. Photo: NPS/Hannah Schwalbe/Public Domain
Backpacking experiences in Joshua Tree and Death Valley national parks differ significantly, though they both cater to desert adventures.
Joshua Tree backcountry hiking and backpacking is not as regulated as other parks. The backcountry is divided into 15 areas, and for most areas, there’s no cap on the number of available backcountry permits (which are required for backcountry camping). Only one of the 15 zones (The Boy Scout Zone) has a fixed number of permits, as you’re only allowed to camp within the designated campground and should reserve it in advance. For all other zones, you can camp anywhere you want, as long as you follow a few basic rules.
The different zones offer a mix of trails and pure wilderness areas. In the latter, you have to chart your own route and may have to scramble and bushwhack in certain areas. If you want a designated trail, consider Eureka Peak in the Black Rock Zone (20 miles, one or two nights), or the 36-mile California Hiking and Riding Trail, which passes through several zones.
In Death Valley, backpacking is even less structured (and less popular). Only one backcountry hike in the park requires a permit: the Cottonwood Canyon Marble Canyon Loop. For all others, permits are suggested to help rangers keep track of backcountry users, but they’re not required. If you get one, do it in person at a visitors center the morning before you start.
Regarding Death Valley vs. Joshua Tree backcountry campgrounds, it’s easy: Death Valley doesn’t have any. Backcountry and multi-day hiking in Death Valley requires a bit more knowledge than in Joshua Tree as there are also very few established trails, so you’ll need to be able to read maps, have solid wayfinding skills, and judge the best routes across a landscape.
In both parks, you can cache water and food, but it’s almost essential in Death Valley, while in Joshua Tree, some trails have water sources. In general, roads are rougher in Death Valley vs. Joshua Tree, and Joshua Tree is better for less-experienced backpackers.
As of Spring 2024, expect rougher-than-normal conditions in Death Valley, as many of the park’s roads and routes were damaged in heavy flooding during the summer of 2023.
Frontcountry and day hiking
Hikers on the Zabriskie Point trail in Death Valley National Park. Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock
It’d be easy to think hiking in Death Valley vs. Joshua Tree national parks would be very similar, but despite both being desert landscapes, the experiences are fairly distinct. Joshua Tree hikes are all about rugged rock formations, stark desert plains, and getting close to the iconic Joshua trees. The elevation varies from 3,000 to 5,000 feet, offering panoramic vistas and a more moderate desert climate.
Death Valley throws a different kind of punch. It’s the hottest, driest place in North America, with sculpted canyons, vast salt flats, and colorful rock formations. Hiking trails lead through eroded badlands and past sand dunes, and because it’s below sea level, the temperatures can push into scorching.
Joshua Tree caters to a wider range of hiking abilities, with many trails under one mile with minimal elevation gain. It’s very easy to walk to iconic sites like Jumbo Rocks and Skull Rock, but there are still longer hikes available, like the Willow Trail and the Lost Horse Loop. However, the majority of trails fall in the beginner and intermediate range.
Death Valley’s hiking options are generally considered more challenging due to the harsh environment. Popular choices include Badwater Basin (the lowest point in North America), and Zabriskie Point for stunning panoramic views. The Golden Canyon Trail offers a colorful canyon experience, while hikers seeking a challenge can tackle the Telescope Peak Trail, the park’s highest point. Half the park’s trails are considered moderate, though they have more elevation gain and rougher terrain than the ones in Joshua Tree. Trails are generally less marked and harder to follow on Death Valley vs. Joshua Tree trails.
Driving tours and accessible activities
Joshua Tree has more paved and easy-to-drive roads. Photo: West Coast Scapes/Shutterstock
Exploring Joshua Tree and Death Valley national parks can be done via scenic drives and accessible activities, but the landscapes shape the experience. When it comes to driving in Death Valley vs. Joshua Tree, Joshua Tree offers easier self-guided drives. You can get maps for self-guided driving tours from park visitor centers, and popular options include Pinto Basin Road through Joshua tree forests, and Keys View Road, with views of the Coachella Valley.
There are also lots of drivable backcountry roads (also popular with gravel bikers). Lots of companies offer driving tours within the park, including Red Jeep Tours, Joshua Tree Excursions, and Adventure Hummer, among others.
In terms of access, all visitor centers and restrooms are ADA-accessible, as are a few trails. The park is currently working to create more assets for visitors with hearing or vision concerns.
In general, at Death Valley, accessible options are more limited compared to Joshua Tree. The park’s vastness is best explored by car along Badwater Road, which takes visitors past iconic sights with accessible parking and short, paved paths.
Both parks offer accessible ranger programs, lectures, history presentations, and more, as well as audio tours via the NPS App. Just look for the schedule in the park newspaper (usually handed to guests at the gates). At Death Valley, you can request an ASL interpreter for any program by emailing the park in advance. However, much of the park was built before modern ADA standards were developed, and most of it is still primitive wilderness, so it doesn’t have as many accessible areas as parks like Yosemite. But it does have a helpful website that lists the accessibility offerings of every site and amenity in the park.
Other major recreational draws
Night sky in Death Valley National Park. Photo: Jeff Stamer/Shutterstock
Joshua Tree and Death Valley national parks offer distinct experiences beyond traditional hiking and camping. Both are also excellent for mountain biking, with bikes allowed on all backcountry roads in both Joshua Tree and Death Valley.
Joshua Tree provides a wider range of activities that cater to creative and athletic pursuits. The park itself offers ranger-led programs on topics like desert ecology, stargazing, and rock climbing history, and private companies in nearby towns like Palm Springs and Twentynine Palms offer everything from tours and art classes to guided rock climbing, horseback rides, or yoga. You’ll find multiple companies offering all types of activities.
Death Valley has fewer guided options and activities and focuses more on experiencing the stark beauty and geological wonders of the desert. However, it also has ranger programs on the park’s history, its role in Native American cultures, and its mining past.
Of course, there’s one activity that shines at both parks, literally: stargazing. You don’t have to give up epic views of the night sky when deciding between Death Valley vs. Joshua Tree. Joshua Tree stargazing is world-class. It’s an official dark sky park, hosts a dark sky festival, and has many area tour operators offering private stargazing sessions in the park. Many area Airbnbs also have dedicated stargazing roofs, though laying on a blanket in the desert works just fine, too.
But don’t fret if you’re headed to Death Valley: it’s also a dark sky park. However, stargazing as an activity/industry isn’t as developed, so you’ll find fewer guided offerings. But as long as you have a stargazing app, and stop by a visitor center to get guidance on the best locations, you’re just as likely to see shooting stars and the Milky Way as you are in Joshua Tree. Death Valley also has a stargazing festival, and it’s even part of Nevada’s first astrotourism driving route.
Camping in Joshua Tree and Death Valley
Mesquite Springs is a high-elevation campground, giving it more pleasant temperatures during summer. Photo: NPS/Kurt Moses/Public Domain
There are no hotels inside Joshua Tree National Park. However, five campgrounds in the park take reservations (Black Rock, Cottonwood, Indian Cove, Jumbo Rocks, and Ryan). Jumbo Rocks is the biggest and probably the most popular, and Black Rock and Cottonwood are the most developed. There’s no water at Indian Cove, Jumbo Rocks, or Ryan, so carry plenty before entering the park.
Indian Cove and Black Rock are closest to the northern entrances, and Cottonwood is closest to the southern entrance. You can make reservations up to six months in advance on Recreation.gov. All fill up pretty quickly for weekends between October and April/May, but if you keep an eye on the reservation page, you can usually find midweek reservations.
The park also has three first-come, first-served campgrounds: Belle, Hidden Valley, and White Tank (only Hidden Valley is open in the summer). The best chance of getting a first-come, first-served site is to arrive early in the morning. If you have plenty of time, you can drive between the campgrounds later in the day to look for a spot, but leave yourself enough time to drive out of the park and find a good BLM primitive camping spot in case the park is entirely full. Joshua Tree has a handy map of places you can camp outside the park, clearly designating what areas are off-limits.
None of the first-come, first-served campgrounds have water, so again, bring plenty.
Camping in Death Valley is usually a little easier to swing. It has seven developed campgrounds, and only one takes reservations (Furnace Creek Campground). And even then, it’s only during the winter you need a reservation; it’s first-come, first-served outside of the mid-October to mid-April window. Fees and amenities vary. The park advises that the Sunset Campground almost always has availability, even in winter. The park also has five primitive campgrounds with no amenities, all of which are first-come, first-served, and require a vehicle with high clearance to reach.
If you visit in the summer, be prepared for extreme heat and try to get one of the higher-elevation campgrounds, like Mesquite Spring or Wild Rose.
Hotels in and around Death Valley and Joshua Tree
Photo: Airbnb
If you want to stay in hotels for your Joshua Tree trip, you’ll need to stay in Twentynine Palms or at a resort in Palm Springs (about an hour away). But if you don’t want to sleep outside, you’re way better off getting a cool desert Airbnb. Joshua Tree is known for having some of the coolest and hippiest home rentals in all of California — and many of them offer prime, remote locations for truly phenomenal stargazing.
For sleeping in and around Death Valley, you have more options. There are three hotels in the park. Panamint Springs Resort is probably the most basic option, with cabins and hotel rooms, plus campgrounds. There’s a basic on-site restaurant and a general store, and is the closest in-park option to Lone Pine, California, if you’re coming from Highway 395. Rooms are akin to fancy cabins at a KOA.
Stovepipe Wells Village is the midlevel option, with RV hookups, campsites, and motel-style rooms. Amenities include Wi-Fi, a year-round pool, and a cool Western-style saloon. The most luxurious hotel is the Oasis at Death Valley, with options for staying in a casita in a historic hotel (the Inn at Death Valley), or the newer and larger Ranch at Death Valley, which has more than 100 rooms, plus a golf course, Jeep rentals, and horseback rides from the hotel.
There are also a decent number of Airbnbs near Death Valley, though not as many as you’ll find around Joshua Tree.
Getting to Death Valley vs. Joshua TreeFor most people, Joshua Tree is easier to reach. That’s because it’s roughly two hours from Los Angeles, which has multiple international airports with car rentals. It’s also close to a major resort town (Palm Springs), from which you can day trip if you just want to do one day in the park.
Death Valley isn’t quite as day-trippable. The closest city is Las Vegas, which is only about a two-hour drive, but there are no big towns nearby, and the drive from Vegas is pretty barren. The closest towns to the west are in the remote parts of the eastern Sierra Nevada and are very small, like Lone Pine and Death Valley Junction. That said, they do have a few hotels and general stores, but not the amenities and tourism offerings of Palm Springs.
Neither Death Valley nor Joshua Tree have roads subject to seasonal closures, but they both are at risk from flooding and mudslides, so check the road conditions page for each park before planning your trip. Here’s the Joshua Tree conditions page, and here’s Death Valley. Very occasionally, some roads will close in Death Valley after heavy snow.
If you’re looking for a good week-long road trip, fly into Las Vegas and do a loop between Death Valley, Joshua Tree, and the Mojave National Preserve.
What kind of person will like each park?Hikers at a natural bridge in Death Valley National Park. Photo: NPS/Kurt Moses/Public Domain
Joshua Tree National Park has more hiking and climbing options, which tend to attract travelers looking for more guided, bookable, and hosted activity options. Joshua Tree also has more tourism companies in the vicinity thanks to Twentynine Palms and Palm Springs, plus more luxurious options for hotels and Airbnb rentals. It offers a bit more of a hip, artsy vibe, with glamping resorts and art galleries nearby. There are also far more beginner-friendly hiking trails.
Death Valley National Park may be a better option for travelers seeking to get away from people and civilization, or travelers who prefer a more rugged experience. The hikes are harder, the roads are rougher, and the landscapes are even more extreme. Death Valley also scores points for history buffs, with ghost towns, abandoned mines, and even an entire castle on the property grounds. And if you want to sleep in a national park, Death Valley is the only option.
Fortunately, photographers and stargazers will be happy at both parks, while hikers and backpackers will have more options at Joshua Tree — but also bigger crowds.
Why Planes Fill With White ‘smoke’ When Leaving From Humid Places
One of my earliest travel memories is flying long haul for the first time to Thailand with my family. On departure, clouds of white “smoke” came down from the vents in the ceiling of the cabin. I asked my father what was happening. He replied, “It’s to kill the beasties,” which I’m sure he instantly regretted as he was bombarded with insistent questioning about where said insects were. He was wrong — in part. Yes, cabin crew commonly spray insecticide, but this was water vapor.
But why does this happen, and what’s the science behind it? This Tiktok explains why mist or vapor fills an aircraft when taking off from humid places.
@_hennylim_ What is that white smoke inside the aircraft? Check out this video to know what it is! Trivia about aircrafts! Nice to know! #fyp #cabincrewlife #aircrafts #airconditioningunit #cebupacific ♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim
First of all, there’s no need to panic. It’s not smoke, and it’s very common.
It’s actually condensed water droplets. It occurs when there is a difference in temperature between the air inside the aircraft and the outside air at the humid airport.
When the airplane is grounded at a humid location, the air outside holds a lot of moisture as vapor, and because the interior uses air conditioning to keep the cabin comfortable, it mixes with the warm, humid air that seeped in before closing the doors. This causes the invisible water vapor to condense — similar to your breath on a cold day.
The mist is harmless and disappears quickly as the plane reaches cruising altitude, where the outside air is much colder. You’ll see this more often in hot, humid places or during summer months when the outside air is warm and holds more moisture.
Air conditioning plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe and comfortable flight. At an average cruising altitude, the air outside sits around -40 to -60°F. So, it perhaps goes without saying that air conditioning is vital to stop the cabin temperature from plummeting to uncomfortable and potentially dangerous levels. The system also pressurizes the cabin, ensuring adequate oxygen supply for passengers and crew, and removes carbon dioxide.
This Cherry Creek Hotel Blends Denver’s Adventurous Spirit and Posh Accommodations
There are some really cute boutique hotels in Denver to choose from — but Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek, (pronounced “Hal-see-uh n), feels like stepping into a world of adventurous luxury right as you walk through the doors. If you arrive around standard check-in time, you’ll be greeted with a complimentary adult beverage since a daily happy hour — including house wines and local beer — is included in your stay from 3 to 6 p.m.
The hotel’s name, “Halcyon,” is inspired by a “mythical bird fabled to calm seas” and represents “happiness, carefreeness, and peaceful tranquility.” You’ll see little bits of this bird sprinkled everywhere on-site, like a peaceful pair of watching eyes and wings nestled into the architecture and decor.
The 154-room, 11-suite property is modern-chic with notes of nostalgia in its elements like its vintage record machines and vinyl records — feeling almost like more of a contemporary art museum in the common spaces, with dozens of Taschen books on the tables and thought-provoking hanging art.
The hotel sits in the charming and refined Cherry Creek North neighborhood of Denver, just minutes from the downtown central business district but far enough away to have a completely different atmosphere. This glamorous, walkable district has been referred to by some as the “Beverly Hills of Denver,” boasting a lineup of sophisticated restaurants, galleries, boutique fitness studios, and a diverse range of upscale shopping options.
But it’s still Colorado — meaning outdoor adventures reign king and queen — and guests can take advantage of amenities like borrowing a bike for the day to cruise down the Cherry Creek Bike Path or raiding the Gear Garage, fully stocked with an array of seasonal outdoor equipment.
Traveling to Denver? Check out Matador’s rundown of the best Denver Airbnbs
Photo courtesy Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek
This hotel aims to offer an experience that feels more like spending time at a metropolitan-based friend’s house instead of a standard hotel, which is why there are unique, homey elements incorporated into the property. These include the front desk designed to feel like a luxury kitchen space (complete with snacks, wine, and coffee throughout various parts of the day), and a lobby meant to represent an intimate living room space (complete with a large marble fireplace, comfortable couches, and plenty of reading material and games). The Art on-site is curated by NINE dot ARTS, blending elements of a chic cosmopolitan loft feel with the coziness of an off-grid mountain cabin — rustic, urban, and playful.
The rooms are decorated with striking art pieces, blending work and play with furniture like a convertible coffee-to-desk style table, chaise lounges, record players, and quaint Juliet balconies. The bathrooms are adorned with chic stone tiles, bronze fixtures, and upscale toiletries.
Traveling to Colorado? Check out Matador’s Colorado accommodation guides to the best places to stay across the state: 11 unique Airbnb Colorado rental homes for your next group getaway10 Airbnb Estes Park rentals near Rocky Mountain National ParkThese Denver airport hotels put you close to the terminal with luxe amenitiesThe best Airbnbs in Denver for beer, 420, and mountain cultureVail Airbnbs that make you feel like you’re in the heart of Bavaria
We hope you love the Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek! 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.
Guest rooms at Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek
Photo courtesy Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek
There are 154 guest rooms and 11 suites (including ADA Accessible rooms) with 10 different layout styles and vibrant, individual personalities. Rooms are also designed to feel like a home moreso than a hotel room.
I stayed in a “Corner Room” with a King Bed, which felt spacious. It had a large, comfy mattress and an attached living area with a couch and record player with which I had plenty of fun. Maybe too much fun. It inspired me to buy the exact same vinyl record of my own for home. I also appreciated how the rooms come with a Manduka yoga mat and block because I’m a yogi and love it when hotel rooms have mats (instead of bringing my own or relying on a slightly more worn-down one at the gym). Other setups like the standard “Den Room” offer a bright, clean space for sleeping and working with amenities like a Nespresso machine, vinyl record player, and yoga mat.
The most exceptional offering on-site is the Three Bedroom Presidential Suite, which clocks in at 2,100 square feet spread over two floors of living and dining space, sleeping up to 10 guests and featuring luxurious amenities like a Peloton Bike, a private terrace with couches, and two additional private walk out patios.
All of the guestrooms include amenities like Nespresso machines, cozy bathrobes, Jonathan Adler bath products, SmartTVs, a vinyl record player and records (you can exchange the ones you have for more downstairs at the Gear Garage), a Yoga mat/block, and stocked mini-bars with ample cocktail-making supplies and cocktail kits.
Dining on-site at Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek
Photo courtesy Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek
Dine at the stylish but approachable “local neighborhood favorite” on-site eatery, Local Jones, which serves a menu full of “locally sourced staples.” When I had brunch there on a spring Sunday morning, an in-person DJ was spinning modern hits and throwback tracks — and it was warm enough that the buzzing indoor-outdoor dining space was being used to its full capacity.
Grab a drink at the exclusive speakeasy spot, B&GC, which offers a range of expertly curated signature drinks. This spot was “revived from the ruins of the former Cherry Creek Post Office, and today stands to celebrate the art of the cocktail and the spirit of life.
At Quality Italian, which is a modern take on an American Italian steakhouse, enjoy a hearty bite in a warm, spirited atmosphere in a space surrounding a large, central bar. Or, get some fresh air and check out the rooftop bar, Rare Bird, for stunning views of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains in the distance paired with contemporary American bites.
On-site amenities and rooftop space
Photo courtesy Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek
Guests can enjoy access to the rooftop pool deck, hot tub, and bar, which showcase striking views of the Rocky Mountains. The roof is outfitted with private cabanas for rent seven days a week which can be booked for a half or full day. with HDTVs and comfortable seating, a table, stocked with complimentary sparkling wine or cider, water, and a fruit platter and bottled water.
Travelers should be aware there’s a destination Amenity Fee of $35 plus tax per room, which will be used toward standard amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi on-site, as well as other amenities like 24-hour access to the in-house fitness center and the rooftop pool deck. The gym has a few cardio machines like treadmills, exercise bikes, free weights, yoga mats, and exercise balls.
The fee also covers handmade espresso beverages, drip coffee, tea, and freshly baked treats each morning from the Kitchen Counter in the hotel lobby. In the evening, there’s a selection of complimentary house wines and local beer.
The Gear Garage at Halycon, a hotel in Cherry Creek
Photo courtesy Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek
Guests seeking the “full Colorado experience” can make use of the hotel’s “Gear Garage,” which hosts seasonal outdoor equipment and gear like sleds, snowshoes, pickleball paddles, scooters, cruiser bikes, longboards, GoPros, board games, and vinyl records among other goodies.
Those with an electric vehicle can use the property’s chargers via the valet service for a $15 fee per full charge. But perhaps the coolest inclusions in the amenity fee are free day passes to the Denver Botanic Gardens including its conservatory, gardens, and sunken amphitheater — and the “Wellness Passport,” which can be used to access Cherry Creek’s premier fitness studios like SoulCycle, barre3, CorePower Yoga, and more.
Pet policyDenver is a dog-friendly city — and The Halcyon is no different. Dogs under 70 pounds are welcome (sorry, kitties — feline friends aren’t allowed. Only Fido, for now), and the Kitchen Counter at the front desk offers dog treats at all times. There’s a cleaning fee of $100 per stay and a two-pets per-guest room limit.
Diversity and inclusivityEveryone is welcome at Halcyon. The hotel is proud to be an official TAG-approved LGBTQ-friendly hotel, and it’s in a location offering close proximity to plenty of local, inclusive social spaces.
Visitors typically want to fly away and explore the mountain and metropolitan surroundings on a trip to Denver — and Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek is a cozy, luxurious nest to return to after a day of adventures.
14 Stunning House Boats in the US You Can Rent on Airbnb
If falling to sleep with the sound of lapping waves or sitting out on a water-side deck with a morning coffee sounds like heaven, consider booking a houseboat on your next vacation. Across the US waterways, there are many floating homes you can rent. Many of these are moored, which means you can’t go sailing, but some offer you the freedom to take the home out onto the water. Choosing an Airbnb houseboat begins with location and ends with what facilities you and your guests need. Here’s a selection of some of the best across the US — these range from romantic and remote floating tiny homes to luxury houseboats moored in top marinas in major cities.
We hope you love the Airbnb houseboat rentals we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Stunning houseboat in Key West, Florida
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis Superhost-run houseboat is located on the tranquil waters of Key West, Florida. It is ideal for a romantic getaway or a solo trip, offering unparalleled views of the ocean through floor-to-ceiling windows. You can also enjoy sunbathing on the private deck, kayaking around the area, or snorkeling in the clear waters. The suite is anchored around 10 minutes from the shore. You are responsible for coordinating and paying for transportation to and from the houseboat. This can be done by bringing your own boat or hiring a local captain for an affordable rate — but the payoff is worth the journey.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $405 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis converted tugboat is located on an eight-acre private lake with an island in Louisa, Virginia. There’s a lot to do in the area. You can enjoy swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, hiking, and biking. There’s also a beach area with a fire pit, where you can grill in the evenings and enjoy the view.
The houseboat has been completely renovated and includes all the modern conveniences you’ll need for a comfortable stay, including a fully stocked kitchen, a king-size bed, a full bathroom, air conditioning, heat, and WiFi.
Five guests, three bedrooms
Price: $299 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis charming little houseboat is docked at the Tomahawk Bay Marina, which offers stunning views of the Columbia River.
The Airbnb has a studio layout with everything you need. There’s a queen-sized bed, a fully equipped kitchenette with a brand new fridge, toaster oven, hot plate, and microwave. There’s also a shower onboard, though it’s important to note that it only stays hot for about 10 minutes. But the best part of the houseboat is the outdoor deck space. It’s the perfect place to kick back and watch the river go by. The marina also has a gated parking lot, an on-site washer and dryer, and a community garden that guests are welcome to use.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $91 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosFlorida has a lot of houseboats. There are more listings there than in any other state on Airbnb, so I’ve been selective. This is one of the best. The custom-built houseboat is moored at the 1000 Palms beachy boutique resort on Clearwater Beach. It offers front-row seats to stunning sunsets, exceptional amenities, and access to the award-winning sugar sands of Clearwater Beach.
The houseboat is impeccably decorated with colorful textiles and beach-chic artwork. It sleeps two and comes with complimentary kayak and paddleboards, beach cruiser bikes, and other handy beach equipment.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $233 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosImagine waking up to a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. The harbor is situated in the heart of the city, so staying here puts you within walking distance of must-see sights. From here, you can easily visit the National Aquarium, catch a baseball game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards, or explore the many shops and restaurants lining the Inner Harbor.
The luxury houseboat has been designed to be a home away from shore, perfect for couples or small groups of up to four. The main bedroom features a comfortable queen bed, while the living room has a designer sofa that cleverly converts into another queen-sized sleeping area. It also has an epic rooftop deck where you can soak up the sunshine, relax under the stars, or enjoy the view over Baltimore.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $476 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosIn Rockwater Marina in North Little Rock, this 400-square-foot houseboat floats directly on the Arkansas River. The Arkansas River is a special place. Sunrise and sunset here turn the sky vibrant pink, and in the evenings, you can take in Little Rock city’s skyline sparkling across the water. The Rockwater Marina offers access to the beautiful river trails, perfect for a morning jog or an evening stroll, and birdwatchers will enjoy spotting waterfowl and other wildlife with the Airbnb’s binoculars.
The houseboat sleeps two guests and has been awarded five stars across the board based on ratings and reviews of guests.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $175 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis rustic houseboat is located on the quiet and serene Iatt Lake in Colfax. Spreading across 6,580 acres, Iatt Lake is a vast freshwater lake popular for fishing and waterfowling — if that’s your thing. The Airbnb has a simple setup. There’s no running water onboard, but a bathroom is nearby on land. Outside, there’s a nice outdoor seating area and a private back porch. Kayak and paddle boat rentals, including life jackets and paddles, are available for exploring the lake.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $65 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosNamed the “Slackin Shack,” this handcrafted houseboat is located on the water in the heart of historic downtown Swansboro, North Carolina. It has been fully updated with modern amenities and has two sleeping areas. One area has a queen-sized futon bed, and the other has a twin bed.
Swansboro, also known as the “Friendly City by the Sea,” is a charming town on the North Carolina coast. It borders both the Intracoastal Waterway and the White Oak River. As you might expect from a coastal town, water sports are a major attraction here. You can enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, and water skiing. After a day on the water, you can walk from your houseboat to many excellent seafood restaurants in downtown like Saltwater Grill and Riverside Steak & Seafood.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $203 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis pet-friendly houseboat Airbnb is a studio unit ideal for a couple or a solo traveler. It has a convenient location just six miles from both Waveland Beach and the historic Old Town area of Bay St. Louis. The studio has a kitchenette for preparing light meals and snacks. There’s also a private yard with a fenced area, perfect if you’d like to bring your pet along. After a day of exploring the Mississippi Gulf Coast, you can unwind by the garden’s fire pit.
Two guests, studio
Price: $114 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosIf you’re looking for something a little different, you might want to consider a bed-and-breakfast cabin on the Newport Belle, a docked historic sternwheel riverboat in Newport’s South Beach Marine Harbor. Built in 1993, the 97-foot boat is permanently moored in the South Beach Marina. The Newport Belle is an adult-only retreat, perfect for a romantic getaway. The luxurious staterooms are beautifully decorated, and you’ll be treated to complimentary happy hour drinks and snacks and a delicious breakfast included in the nightly rate.
With its convenient location near the Rogue Ales Microbrewery and Lost Creek State Park, the Newport Belle is a great choice for those looking for a memorable stay in Newport.
Two guests, one suite
Price: $269 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis houseboat Airbnb listing is part of a larger property that includes a farmhouse, cabins, and event facilities. This beautifully restored lakeside retreat is the perfect location for a friend and family get-together or reunion. The camp sits on 40 acres of land bordering Pemaquid Pond, with over 650 metres of lakefront.
The rental price includes all accommodations on the camp, including the moored houseboats. For liability reasons, guests aren’t allowed to operate or move either vessel. So, you can kick back and enjoy the scenery without the worry of navigating the water. They might also come in handy if you’re looking for a place to escape the group and have a little more privacy.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $119 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis tiny Airbnb houseboat rental is on the shore of Silver Lake in Silver Springs, New York. While the houseboat doesn’t actually float on the water, it is built on a floating platform above the lake. The listing is part of the Silverlaken Estate, an eco-friendly resort. This Airbnb doesn’t have its own bathroom facilities or kitchen, but you will have access to the restrooms and shower housed in the Sauna Cabin, which is located around 50 feet away and the docks shared kitchen, BBQ grills, and campfire.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $142 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbThis stunning solar-powered conch cottage floats on the backcountry waters surrounding Key West, Florida. It’s completely off the grid, but you have amenities like a private deck — perfect for wildlife watching — paddle boards, kayaks, and the opportunity to do some light tackle fishing right off the boat. You can even talk to the host and add eco-tours to your stay. There are two bedrooms, and the loft (with the second bedroom) has a sitting area with 360-degree views. Downstairs, you’ll find the living area, kitchen, and bathroom.
See more photos
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $313 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThe “Cass-N-Reel” houseboat is a one-bedroom, one-bathroom rental with a fully equipped kitchenette, and a spacious living area. The kitchen has everything you need to whip up dinner, and there’s a covered outdoor sitting area for dining, but if you’d prefer to eat out, there are superb waterfront restaurants serving local crab within walking distance.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $179 per night
April 2, 2024
This Small Seat Design on Some Planes Makes It Easier to Access Overhead Bins
Traveling with a packed-to-the-brim carry-on is great for saving your hard-earned dollars, but it’s not so great when it’s time to lift that luggage over your head to fit it into an overhead bin.
Because, when it comes to get your bag in the overhead compartment, you’re on your own — flight attendant are not supposed to help you lift your carry-on, mostly because of potential injuries and also because they have a lot more to do than help you resolve your over-packing issues. So, unless you have some very kind people around you ready to help, or have been pumping iron in preparation for just that moment, you’re going to be struggling.
One simple solution is for you to practise pulling your carry-on above your head at home before your flight; if you can’t do it, dive into your bag and make some cuts to lighten the load. Another possibility is for aircraft interior designer to clue in on the issue and start making all the overhead bins more easily accessible. It’s already the case for some of the aircrafts operated by Philippine low-cost airline Cebu Pacific.
As demonstrated by flight attendant _hennylim_ in a TikTok video, some aircrafts are fitted with step bars which allow passengers and crew members to reach the overhead compartments without having to stretch on the tip of theirr toes, or even worse, step on the aisle seat with their disgusting shoes. It’s a small, simple feature, but one that could save everyone a lot of time and energy.
@_hennylim_ Easier access to the Overhead bin? Check this video out to know! To know more informational contents , You check out my other videos too! Special Guest for today’s video: Kimberly Bonus Follow my Official Facebook page “Henny Joyce Lim” You can also follow me on instagram: _hennylim_ #fypシ #fyp #cabincrewlife #overheadbin #groundstop #cebupacific ♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim
Why isn’t this very basic design feature found on every single commercial airplane in the world, you ask? Who knows. Probably for the same reason that airplane trash cans, with their manually operated flap, are still a thing, or that you still can’t flush an airplane toilet by using a foot-operated pedal instead of touching a grimy button: Passengers experience isn’t at the top of aircraft designers’ priorities, apparently.
This $50 Gadget Revolutionized My Camping Gear Setup
One of the most important aspects of camping is packing lightly and efficiently. A piece of gear that serves more than one purpose is much more likely to earn a permanent spot in my pack than a one-trick specialty item. No tool better encapsulates dual-purpose efficiency at the campsite than the Lander Cairn camping lantern, available at Amazon right now for $49.95 with free Prime shipping.
We hope you love the Lander Cairn camping lantern! 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 Lander Cairn has been my favorite piece of camping gear for five years running
Photo: Amazon
A good camping trip involves a lot of downtime. This is true whether car camping or backpacking – part of the appeal is relaxing at the campsite after a day of adventure, unwinding with a cold beverage, hot food cooked over the fire, and often, a good book. The latter can require as much forethought as the two formers, due to the natural aspect of camping – once the sun goes down, there’s no light by which to read.
This issue plays out again in the tent. So many times I’ve crawled into my tent to go to sleep, and attempted to get myself organized and set for the morning, yet only managing to turn my tent into a disheveled mess by using my hands for eyes. Yes, headlamps help alleviate the darkness, but to really settle into camp, hanging a light from the tent’s ceiling hook is essential.
Lander’s Cairn camping lantern solves both these issues. Its 300-lumen light easily brightens even family-sized tents to the point where reading, organizing, and conversing are done with ease. The multi-axis elastic tether ties to tent hooks, branches, or anywhere else you wish to hang the light. I’ve also used it on bike rides and other activities where I know I’ll be outside at night. I find it helpful to tie the tether tightly when in social settings – either outside or in the tent – but then loosen the tether so the light hangs closer to my head when I’m reading.
The Cairn’s light dims as desired and can glow white, red, or strobe (if you feel like having a tent dance party). When it’s time to pack up, the tether wraps around or tucks underneath the lantern for easy storage at under 4 inches in height and width. It’s easy to hold in your hand when searching for something or to set up on or above a camp stove when preparing food.
Putting the Lander Cairn over the top, though, is that it doubles as a charge port with a USB port and cable. This cable also charges the Cairn’s 3300 mAh battery. Lander claims up to 100 hours of power per charge, and while this is a stretch if you’re charging a phone or other device and using it for light, the battery tends to last through a two-night backpacking trip with overnight phone charges and ample campsite use just fine.
The lantern is waterproof and easy to wipe clean if it gets smudged or dropped in the dirt. I’ve used the same Cairn for nearly six years and haven’t had any issues with performance or loss of battery life.
Photo: Amazon
Lander Cairn camping lantern specsBattery: 3300mAh lithium-ionRun time: Up to 100 hours (on low mode)Dimensions: 2.17 x 3.58 x 3.78 inchesWeight: 0.355 lbsWater resistant: IP65 ratedBuilt-in power bankMulti-axis lanyard for hangingMore like thisTravelThis Brand Leads The 'Pac' in Sustainable Travel Clothes
How Hypnotherapy Helped Me Get Over My Debilitating Fear of Flying
The first time I flew, I was 15 years old. My dad had secretly organized a five-day father-daughter trip to London the summer I graduated from junior high, and it involved flying from my home airport of Nantes in France to London Gatwick. On the day of our departure, I remember boarding the plane, sitting next to my dad, putting my things away, and buckling my seat belt. I was not nervous. That is, until the aircraft started accelerating down the runway for takeoff. That’s when all hell broke loose. I took my father’s hand and squeeze it until we touched down in the UK. I was frozen with fear for the entire one-hour flight. When we got out of the plane, I recall turning to my dad and saying: “I’m not doing this for the way back.”
We did, in fact, fly back. My father had purchased return flights and there was no way the plan was going to be altered just because I had the jitters. Surprisingly, I don’t remember the return flight at all. What I know, however, is that for the next 20 years, every flight I took was like a living nightmare. The terror I experienced when flying was like no other emotion I have ever felt. It was uncontrollable, filled with tears, labored breathing, and tremors.
Between the ages of 15 and 23, I traveled around Europe extensively and left my home country to live in Ireland, yet I only flew three times. Among many of the convoluted trips that I concocted to avoid flying: I traveled from Paris to St. Petersburg by train, which took three days; I went back and forth between Ireland and France multiple times per year by 20-plus hour ferries, trains, and buses; and I drove a little Fiat hundreds of miles across Germany, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, and France.
And then, at age 23, I met my partner, a Canadian who lived in the mountains of British Columbia, i.e. an ocean and a continent away from me. Transatlantic trains and bus services being what they are, I had to fly.
Despite an average of six to 10 flights per year for over 10 years (mostly between Canada and France), my fear never subsided. Medication, controlled breathing, worry stones — nothing helped. The kind travelers seating beside me, who held my hand and whispered reassurances, never failed to ask me “Is it your first flight?”, to which I always responded, “No, I do this all the time.” The look on their faces said it all: The girl is a masochistic nut.
The fact that, at age 27, I started working for a travel publication added to the inconvenience and the absurdity of my fear.
I finally sought out the help I needed in 2018, at the age of 32. A couple of days after landing in Canada after after some time spent in France, I opened my laptop, looked for a registered psychologist who practiced hypnotherapy, and made an appointment. I’d had enough and I was ready to change the way I lived.
Judging by what I’d read former smokers say about hypnosis, I had imagined that a few hypnotherapy sessions was going to fix me up for good. Of course, it did not go that way, because psychology isn’t magic. While the impetus for going to therapy was my fear of flying, what my psychologist and I delved into during the 15 or so sessions we had together went beyond flight anxiety. Because fear of flying does not exist on its own in your mind, it’s linked to other experiences and memories, all of them reacting off each other. All of them needing to be tackled.
In total, I had three hypnotherapy sessions, and as many Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) sessions. The hypnotherapy was recorded so I could practice on my own at home and even in the airplane, which I did, no matter how silly I felt. Because, yes, you can self-hypnotize.
Hypnosis for the purpose of therapy is a lot less theatrical than what most of us have in mind. There’s no pocket watch swinging from side to side and nobody is making you cluck like a chicken. During my hypnotherapy session, all I had to do was sit comfortably, close my eyes, and listen to my therapist. She had prepared a script, suited to my needs, and she was delivering it in a slow, quiet way. During hypnosis, I was never asleep and was always aware of what was going on, but I also felt separated from the world in a very subtle way, as if I was inside a soap bubble. It certainly was not scary and I never felt like I was losing control of my situation.
The results of all this work were not immediate and not 100 percent positive. I had some good flights and some bad flights, but I did feel very transformed. Therapy led me to make enormous and very much needed changes that eventually allowed me to live a better life with less anxiety.
It took around three years after my last therapy session to feel at ease about being in the air. While it may seem like a long time, it was worth the wait. I can sit through a 10-hour flight punctuated with turbulence without crying, trembling, or hyperventilating, and I don’t need the help of my seat mate or a flight attendant to calm down. I can also ride in cable cars, something I never thought I’d be able to do.
Getting over your fear of flying requires a lot of discomfort and a good amount of money, but first and foremost, it requires a willingness to change and tackle more than just one fear. But if I did it, me, one of the most anxious flyers the world had ever created, you can do it, too.
These Guys Biked From Finland to Singapore and Filmed the Whole Thing
In adventure travel, the journey is the destination. Few documentaries showcase this better than “Curious Pedals,” a 71-minute epic that chronicles a cycling trip from Finland to Singapore undertaken by Alvari Poikola and his friend, Valtteri Heinilä. The film is available to watch for free on YouTube with the corresponding soundtrack streamable via Spotify.
The adventure mantra enters the scene almost immediately. The video starts with the pair discussing their friends and family asking them why they don’t just fly to Singapore, and what they plan to do once they arrive – entirely missing the point that the reason they’re going on the trip is because of the adventure of getting there.
They set off on their journey and cycle through various countries including Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, India, Nepal, and Malaysia. Frequently camping along the side of the road or crashing with people they meet along the way, the pair encounter many challenges including fixing flat tires, scorching heat, and dangerous roads. They are consistently amazed by the beautiful scenery and the kindness of strangers they meet.
The film is lightly narrated, mostly by Heinilä, but largely allows for visual storytelling and the highlighting of the natural interactions that the pair find themselves having amongst themselves and with other people. The drone work phenomenally captures the mountainous landscapes the pair ride through and highlights the varying terrain (and road conditions, ranging from pavement to rough dirt).
Advancing towards the border between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, Poikola and Heinilä encounter armed guards warning them that the border is closed due to conflict. With no cash and hundreds of miles from anywhere, they managed to squeeze through the next morning after camping near the border, accepting some cash and food from a stranger, and pleading their case to a high-ranking Tajik military officer.
“Problem. Tajk-Kyrgyzstan travel, no visa, no Somoni (money), no food. Big problem,” they said to the officer, who took pity on the pair and called ahead to the border checkpoint in their favor.
The cyclists document their journey, including the good, the bad, and the funny. They film themselves cycling through various terrains, fixing their bicycles, and camping. They cycle through a tiger-occupied national park, and in Nepal, Poikola catches Dengue fever. While in Nepal the pair separate for a couple weeks to spend some time alone, with Poikola going to a silent mediation retreat and Heinilä trekking to the Anapurna basecamp.
In the last third of the video, the cyclists are nearing the end of their journey from Finland to Singapore. They cycled through many countries including Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, India, and Nepal. They overcame many challenges including scorching heat, dangerous roads, and illness.
One particularly difficult section was in Tajikistan. They cycled for days on end with little water and scorching sun. At one point, they were worried they might not find water and mentioned they were relieved to find a freshwater source.
Another challenging part of the trip was in India. They got caught in a landslide and had to take a jeep to avoid the dangerous area surrounding the slide. They also learned that a person had been killed by an elephant that morning in the area they were cycling through.
Despite the challenges, the cyclists pressed on. They reached Nepal and then cycled through Malaysia. In Malaysia, they were fortunate to stay overnight at the house of a friend Greg met in Thailand. Grégoire Debrix, a Frenchman, joins the crew for the remainder of the trip.
In the end, Poikola and Heinilä reach their final destination of Singapore after 245 days, 9,569 miles (15,400 kilometers), and 323,083 feet (100,000 meters) of elevation gain.
The Curious Pedals team has embarked on further quests, including paddleboarding from Stockholm, Sweden, across the Baltic Sea to Turku, Finland. Follow their adventures on Instagram.
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