Matador Network's Blog, page 184
March 25, 2024
These Women Founded Groundbreaking Travel Startups – and Their Story Could Inspire Yours
With a hearty laugh, Alexis Bowen recalls the most unique moment in the acquisition process of her boutique travel marketplace. She and business partner Craig Zapatka were in Paris filming a promo shoot with marketers from the graphic design tool platform Canva the day their business, Elsewhere, signed an offer from Lonely Planet.
“We were literally excusing ourselves from the shoot to go the restroom to check out the contract,” Bowen says.
On that day in 2021, the pair were not yet a year into the startup journey, but their product had found resonance with post-pandemic travelers seeking authentic connections with places around the globe. By connecting travelers with local guides, Elsewhere began to help foster travel experiences that benefitted both the visitors and the communities being visited.
Elsewhere’s short-but-sweet acquisition story is the stuff of legend, though it’s certainly not the norm in the startup world. Visions of self-fulfillment, financial freedom, and, of course, a vagabond’s lifestyle provide the fuel for nearly every startup in the travel space.
“But a startup is an extreme and bipolar existence – you can live or die on any day,” Bowen says.
Susie Chau, founder of Carpe Diem Traveler, started her travel advising consultancy after taking a year-long sabbatical to travel the world. The knowledge gained and connections made through that experience and other travels gave her the desire to share her wisdom to help other travelers take better trips.
“I think more and more people are searching for businesses that have a soul, depth, and purpose to them,” Chau says. “They also see the value of connecting with and giving money to businesses that align with their values. It’s all about finding the thing that solves a problem or helps someone achieve a desire to get the profit, but you can infuse your values into the process.”
These two entrepreneurs offered five helpful tips for women looking to found a business in the travel industry.
Alexis Bowen co-founded Elsewhere. Photo courtesy Alexis Bown
Innovate by remaining dedicated and nimbleData shows that up to 85 percent of travel decisions are made by women. They tend to be more interested in travel and more willing to make sacrifices to pursue it. Yet only one-third of businesses in the travel space are run by women. This stems from decades of gender-centric malfeasance in the business, but recent trends indicate that change is afoot – data now shows that 42 percent of US businesses now identify as woman-owned. The travel industry has seen a rapid increase in female founders since the Covid-19 pandemic.
“There is so much room to expand and innovate in the transformational travel space,” Chau says about why she founded Carpe Diem Traveler. “I’m passionate about helping professionals take sabbaticals to travel. For most sabbatical-takers, there’s a deeper purpose or catalyst for taking that journey. Digging into those conversations to design a trip that meets their goals and vision was so fulfilling.”
Chau found product-market fit by understanding the disconnect between travel advisors and the reasons why their clients travel.
“Particularly in North America, we put all our attention on the ‘where and what’ of travel instead of the ‘why and how,’” Chau says. “There is so much space to explore and guide the evolution of travelers thinking differently about how and why they travel.”
For Elsewhere, that innovation came in the form of timing. Launching in the heart of the pandemic gave Bowen the chance to help people come back to travel in a more meaningful way by connecting with locals to guide their journey. It turned out she wasn’t the only one with this line of thought, but was the first to bring it to market while embracing out-of-the-box marketing strategies. Lonely Planet first reached out to Bowen and Zapatka just over two months after Elsewhere was founded in 2020. The media brand’s ambitions remained ambiguous – until Bowen addressed the elephant in the room.
“We were like, why the hell are they talking to us?” she says. “They didn’t lead with anything about doing business together. After our third or fourth conversation, I asked straight out, ‘Why are you guys talking to us?’”
Run a lean machineSix months in, Elsewhere was working to grow day-to-day sales. But the clients they landed were high-quality and values-aligned, which proved the brand’s product-market fit. Also, Bowen kept the overhead low.
“We were running such a lean machine that we were break-even month over month,” Bowen says. “We made some mistakes, but we were so young that there were more wins.”
This made it easy for the pair to meld with an “acquihire” arrangement, where the company was purchased but Bowen and Zapatka remained on board to run the operations.
At Carpe Diem Traveler, Chau used the pandemic to reframe her approach.
“Late last year I had a lightbulb moment that the same intentionality – and process I use with clients – can be applied to a typical vacation to make it so much more meaningful,” Chau says.
Susie Chau founded and operates Carpe Diem Traveler. Photo courtesy Susie Chau.
Embrace outside-the-box marketing strategiesBoth Bowen and Chau advise founders to reach out to other founders for advice, and to never be afraid to do outreach. The lesson is to write and respond honestly and authentically, no matter who you’re talking to.
Bowen says that one of the things Elsewhere did well was lean into a self-hustle PR strategy. The brand embraced influencers early on, sticking key players on their trips in exchange for social posts and coverage. They targeted not just travel players but alsosustainability and tech influencers. The goal was to get as many eyeballs on the brand for as little money as possible.
“I also must have responded to hundreds of HAROs,” Bowen says, referring to the site Help a Reporter Out. This provided media placements and SEO-boosting backlinks. It also, spontaneously, connected Elsewhere with the graphic design tool Canva, who chose Elsewhere as the face of a startup success story campaign. This is what led to Bowen’s crazy, bathroom-bound acquisition experience. Canva flew Bowen and Zaptaka to Paris to film the promo, and it was on this trip that the contract from Lonely Planet came in.
“If you write a well-written and thoughtful email, people will respond,” Bowen says.
Thinking big-picture is key to unlocking your brand’s unlimited potentialThe sudden drop in business during the pandemic killed many companies in the sector, but it also gave enterprising entrepreneurs the chance to bring fresh ideas to the table. When borders began reopening in 2021, it was the fresh thinkers who saw traction first.
“The return of travel after the pandemic was a really rough time for me and the industry as a whole,” Chau says. “Demand was amazing, but everything was more complicated with testing rules and many destinations, tour operators, and hotels were not ready for the tsunami of visitors. It created a lot of issues. Those challenges exacerbated some of the gut feelings about changes I wanted to make in my business that I pushed aside for years because it wasn’t “logical.”
At Elsewhere, Bowen knew their model worked and knew it benefitted local guides and communities. They’d watched similar concepts rise and fall, and had taken note of where they’d gone wrong. Still, following the acquisition Bowen had to reframe how she thought about her business and her role in it.
“We were a brand new startup, we had unlimited potential,” Bowen says. “It was really hard to think of Elsewhere as a subsidiary. We grew Elsewhere as a standalone brand, we care so deeply about it. We built this business to be our dream job, we thought of it as a lifelong career – those of us who build something travel build it for passion. So it was about giving up the idea that this would be a lifelong thing.”
But the opportunity to align with a legacy business in the industry proved to big an opportunity to pass up. Through it Elsewhere gained added brand recognition and more financial resources, even if they had to accept not being the company’s top priority at all times.
Believe in your ideas and in the ‘future of you’Starting and growing a business takes resilience. This is true no matter the niche – and both Bowen and Chau note that you must be willing to get back up each time you’re knocked down.
“The biggest shift going from corporate America to owning a business is that you can’t solve all your problems or create all your strategies from your logical brain,” Chau says. “Listening to your intuition is critical to running a business that flows and feels aligned.”
Bowen emphasized the same point. “There’s ups and downs, and during the downs, you figure out ways to make things work that you wouldn’t have thought of before,” she says.
Elsewhere was acquired at nine months – a rapid turnaround even in the lightning-speed world of startups. Bowen emphasizes that the takeaway from her company’s first year is that yes, you should pursue your business idea, but be prepared to dive in fully and always look forward – because you never know who’s watching.
“I don’t think anyone realizes how hard starting a company is – you throw your life into it,” Bowen says. “Our acquisition wasn’t big in the grand scheme, but for us, it was massive. We weren’t building for an acquisition, but we knew the value of the company. Really, we were nobody, but they noticed right away that there was something there.” 
Japan’s Great Wisteria Festival Is Just as Pretty as Its Cherry Blossom Season
Japan’s cherry blossom season, which occurs between March and May depending on the weather and the region, is undeniably one of the best times of the year to visit the country. But if you miss the cherry blossom window in your preferred area, or if you can’t get enough colorful blossoms in your life, know that there are other blooming events that you can catch that are just as pretty. Japan’s Great Wisteria Festival, which takes place in the Ashikaga Flower Park between mid-April and mid-May every year, is a spectacular display of purple, pink, and white flowers that you don’t want to miss.
Where and when does Japan’s Great Wisteria Festival take place?How to get to the Ashikaga Flower Park from Tokyo?How much does it cost to go to the Ashikaga Flower Park?What makes the wisterias in the Ashikaga Flower Park so special? What else is there to see in the Ashikaga Flower Park besides the wisterias?When is the best time to visit the Ashikaga Flower Park?Where to stay near the Ashikaga Flower Park?
Where and when does Japan’s Great Wisteria Festival take place?
Japan’s Great Wisteria Festival takes place in the Ashikaga Flower Park between mid-April and mid-May every year. The Ashikaga Flower Park is located in the city of Ashikaga, in the Tochigi prefecture, north of Tokyo.
How to get to the Ashikaga Flower Park from Tokyo?The fastest and most-direct way to get from Tokyo to the Ashikaga Flower Park is to take the Shinkansen, Japan’s bullet train.
The Tohoku Shinkansen line, which departs from Ueno Station in Tokyo, takes you to Oyama Station in the city of Oyama, in the Tochigi prefecture. From the same station, the local Ryomo Line will take you to the Ashikaga Flower Park Station. Altogether, the trip takes a little more than 90 minutes, and there are multiple trains operating every day.
Since both the trains to get from Ueno Station in Tokyo to Ashikaga Flower Park Station are JR trains (Japan Railway), you can use your Japan Rail Pass. Without the Japan Rail Pass, this train journey would cost approximately $28 (JP¥ 4,180).
How much does it cost to go to the Ashikaga Flower Park?The price of admission to the Ashikaga Flower Park varies according to the blooming of the flower and is at its highest in April and May, and at its lowest between July 1 and December 30. Admission for adults in April and May ranges from $6 to $15 (JP¥ 900 to JP¥ 2,200), while admission for children ranges from $3.35 to $7.35 (JP¥ 500 to JP¥ 1,100).
What makes the wisterias in the Ashikaga Flower Park so special?
The 160-year-ol Great Wisteria at Ashikaga Flower Park. Photo: Ashikaga Flower Park
Pink wisteria at Ashikaga Flower Park. Photo: biaidgodlovesjs/Shutterstock
The Great Wisteria illuminated at night. Photo: Satao/ShutterstockThere are more than 350 wisteria trees in Ashikaga Flower Park, all blooming within the same time period, between mid-April and mid-May, creating a magnificent display of flowers ranging from purple to pink to white. Among the 350 wisteria trees is The Great Wisteria, an astonishing 160-year-old specimen whose wines extend over 600 trellis, and which blooms a bright shade of purple every year. While The Great Wisteria is the star of the festival, the 262-foot long white wisteria tunnel, and the immense pale pink wisteria vine, are also not to be missed.
While the park is usually open from 10 AM to 5 PM, the hours are extended in April and May for visitors to see the tree illuminated at night.
What else is there to see in the Ashikaga Flower Park besides the wisterias?
Tunnel of laburnums in bloom at the Ashikaga Flower Park. Photo: NH/Shutterstock
While the wisteria trees, especially The Great Wisteria, are what attract most people to the Ashikaga Flower Park in the spring, there are other types of blooms to see, including the beautiful yellow hanging flowers of the laburnums which form a bright tunnel, the 5,000 azaleas bushes, the many rose bushes, and more.
When is the best time to visit the Ashikaga Flower Park?
The Great Wisteria. Photo: doratoy/Shutterstock
From mid-April to mid-May is the best time to visit the Ashikaga Flower Park if you want to see the wisterias, laburnums, and azaleas in bloom; however, know that they don’t all flower at the same time:
The pink wisteria blooms from mid- to late AprilThe Great Wisteria flowers from late April to early MayThe white wisteria blooms in early May The laburnums flower from early to mid-MayThe azaleas bloom from late April to early MayDifferent blooms occur all year around at the Ashikaga Flower Park. If you can’t visit in April or May for the Great Wisteria Festival, you should still make the trip to the park for the roses, rhododendrons, and clematis from mid-May to early June, the iris and hydrangeas from early June to early July, the waterlilies throughout the summer, and much more during the rest of the year.
Where to stay near the Ashikaga Flower Park?
Traveling to Japan? Check out Matador’s Japan accommodations guides: These Kyoto Airbnbs Let You Experience Traditional Japanese Hospitality These Tokyo Ryokan Make for the Perfect Traditional Stay in Japan The Top Tokyo Hotels in Each Must-See Neighborhood 12 Tokyo Airbnbs in the Heart of the Incredible City
We hope you love the hotels 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.
Accommodation options around the Ashikaga Flower Park are nothing to write home about, but if you don’t mind traveling a little farther out, you can experience a highly rated traditional Japanese hotel.
Photo: Vio
Photo: Vio
Photo: Vio
Photo: VioSee more photosTemple Hotel Kannonin is a guest house within a temple complex that comprises three bedrooms, one shared kitchen (fully equipped), one full bathroom, and one shared living room. The guest house, built in a traditional style, with tatami floor, futon beds, and room partitioned thanks to shoji and fusuma doors, surrounds a beautifully landscape Japanese garden. There is also an open-air bath with views on a rock garden. Note that only one group can book the guest house at a time, so you’re never sharing with strangers.
Temple Hotel Kannonin is located less than one hour by train from the Ashikaga Flower Park. To get to the Temple Hotel Kannonin, take the local Ryomo Line from the Ashikaga Flower Park Station to Kiryu Station and then walk the 0.9 mile to the hotel or take a taxi.
Channel Your White Lotus Fantasy at These Thailand Airbnbs
Thailand is a perennial favorite for its tropical islands, mountainous north, and ornate pagodas. These startling landscapes are quite literally back in the limelight since Bangkok, Phuket, and Koh Samui have been confirmed as the filming locations for the third season of HBO’s White Lotus, tipping Thailand as the hottest destination for 2025. If past plots are anything to go by, you might feel more comfortable vacationing away from the hotels. These showstopping Airbnbs in Thailand are free from drama and high in red-carpet luxury.
Traveling to Thailand? Check out Matador’s Thailand accommodations guides: Soak in Bangkok’s Epic Skyline From These Airbnbs Across the City The best Chiang Mai hotels inside and outside the walls See the Best of Chiang Mai From These Luxurious Airbnbs Everything you need in your pack to travel to Southeast Asia
We hope you love these White Lotus Airbnbs in Thailand! 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.
Minimalist Airbnb in Koh Samui with a swim-up bar
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photos“Suralai” means the “home of angels” and there couldn’t be a more fitting name for this luxury vacation rental. It rises from the mountains above Chaweng Beach on the eastern coast of Thailand’s second-largest island. The ginormous pool takes center stage although the terrazzo tubs and home gym aren’t far behind. Seeing as Koh Samui is a confirmed filming location for White Lotus, you might spot a star or two from your lofty perch.
Twelve guests, six bedrooms
Price: $2,396 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosYou’ll be the leading character at this designer mansion where traditional Thai architecture meets the glamor of the Hollywood Hills. A modern interpretation of the classic gabled roof seen on temples and palaces tops the second floor. This opens out onto a floating deck suspended over the infinity pool overlooking the private golf course. Keep walking and you’ll reach the shore of the islet-studded Andaman Sea.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $3,589 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis Airbnb Luxe in Koh Samui is custom-built for the tropics. All rooms have floor-to-ceiling glass doors while the dining and lounge areas are open to the elements and poolside. The second floor has a jaw-dropping sea-view roof terrace bounded by flora. Interiors are modern with plush sofas, king-sized beds, and en suite chambers. The stone walls and rugged boulders keep things real.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $1,265 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosQuick, snap up this unique estate in Koh Samui before the location scouts get there first. The principal house is attached to a stone-clad pavilion straight out of the Tuscan hills. This contains the great room and master bedroom plus a kitchen where a private chef will ensure you keep on top of your five a day. The remaining suites are dispersed across four smaller villas and there are two infinity pools to complete the superstar experience.
Fourteen guests, one bedroom
Price: $2,000 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis awesome honeymoon villa is crafted from natural materials and has sea views inside and outside. Both suites have direct access to the pool deck where you can start your day with coffee and freshly picked fruit in the sunken lounge. The chef service is also available for lunch and dinner while the concierge can arrange cooking classes, yoga tuition, island tours, and more. Location-wise, you’re close to markets and restaurants but away from the hotspots.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $249 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosSet far enough away from rowdy Patong Beach but close to the pristine beach of Nai Harn, this Guest Favorite Airbnb in Phuket lets you experience the best of Thailand’s largest island. The cheerful yellow exterior continues indoors, linking the bedrooms and communal areas. Asian artworks, tapestries, and trinkets add a coziness to the interiors. The home wraps around a compact courtyard with a private pool and sun deck.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $211 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis riverside vacation home claims a rural patch north of the walled city. It’s spread across the main building, a guest house, and a party shack plus a large mineral pool and four covered salas. These pavilions are intended for socializing and meditation but they double up as an open-air bedroom. The decor mingles Thai and Western while smart devices keep things ticking over. Breakfast is included whereas extra meals and tours are at a surcharge.
Sixteen+ guests, ten bedrooms
Price: $975 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosGet back to basics without compromising creature comforts on Thailand’s easternmost and greenest island. The canvas yurt is pitched directly on the sand and offers sea views from the bed or the patio where you can put your feet up in the hammock or dip a toe in the gulf. Owned by a Thai-Italian couple, Lisca Beach is considered one of the best places in the country to eat woodfired pizza with a Thai twist washed down with a negroni.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $82 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosHere’s a spoiler you didn’t see coming: you really can get off the beaten track in Thailand. This chic glasshouse sits on the banks of the Kwai Yai River which you’ll get to know courtesy of the complimentary kayak, rubber raft, and swimming tubes. Leaping off the dock for a wild swim is a must. You’ll wake up and fall asleep to green views of the Sai Yok National Park where you can hike to waterfalls.
Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $290 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosIf you’re the traveler whose photostream is bursting with photos of cats rather than temples, this treehouse Airbnb in Northern Thailand is purr-fect. The three-story ecolodge soars over an untamed garden where 59 rescued felines roam freely (sometimes, right under the duvet). The treehouse has a stunning outdoor bathroom with a sunken tub and rain shower overlooking the cat jungle. You’re welcome to use the shared kitchen or order cooked meals.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $243 per night
The Literal Translation of Every State and Major City in the US
Have you ever considered where the name of your state or city comes from? Every place in the US has a story behind its title, and the folks at WordTips have put together a selection of informative maps to help trivia and etymology nerds by listing the literal translation of state names and those of our major cities.
From Missoula (River of Ambush) in Montana and Manchester (Breast-like Hill) in New Hampshire, the origin of place titles across the US come from Indigenous languages, European settlers, and geographical features. To help you puzzle out a tricky crossword clue or score points in the next geography round at games night, here are the meanings behind the names of each US state, states capital and 178 of the biggest cities across the US.
Photo: WordTips
Finding the etymology of place names is not a simple task. WordTips looked at a variety of sources. Drawing from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Online Etymology Dictionary, the Encyclopedia Britannica, the American Library Association, and regional news reports, the results were equated from at least two matching sources. Many states and cities have more than one story behind their title, but these are the most popular.
Here are some of the most interesting findings for state names:
Arizona: (Place of the Small Spring): Scholars believe the name Arizona stems from a native language, likely the Tohono O’odham spoken by Indigenous people in the region. The orginal name “Al Shon” translates to “place of little spring.”Iowa (Sleepy Ones): This name might have originated from a Dakota word for the Ioway tribe, possibly meaning “beautiful land” or even “sleepy ones,” depending on interpretation.Massachusetts (Great Hill Small Place): Massachusetts comes from an Algonquian word meaning “at the great hill.”Texas (Friend): The name Texas comes from the Caddo word “teysha” or “tayasha” which means “friend” or “ally” in the language.Wyoming (On the Great Plain): This might seem straightforward, but it’s derived from a Munsee Delaware language term “xwe:wamenk,” which translates to “at the big river flat.”
Photo: WordTips
The names of northeastern cities like Boston (Botolph’s Stone) and Baltimore (Townland of the Big House) are steeped in history. Philadelphia’s name originates from its founder, William Penn, and his vision for the city. The name itself comes from two ancient Greek words: “philos” meaning love or beloved, and “adelphos” meaning brother. So, Philadelphia literally translates to “brotherly love”.
Photo: WordTips
In the northwest, Salem (Peace) and Missoula (River of Ambush) are a curious find, whereas Portland (Land Surrounding a Habor) is more literal.
Photo: WordTips
The southeastern city, Charleston translates to King Charles II Town. Many places around the world are named after British royalty. In the case of Charleston, the city was founded in 1670 during King Charles II’s reign. To honor the king, the eight original proprietors named the settlement Charles Town, which later evolved into present-day Charleston.
Photo: WordTips
Las Vegas translates directly to “The Meadows” in Spanish. This name originated from the area’s natural characteristics before it became the gambling capital we know today. Early Spanish explorers were the first Europeans to encounter this desert oasis. Las Vegas Valley wasn’t always a desert landscape. Underground springs provided a vital source of water, allowing wild grasses to flourish in the nutrient-rich soil.
Photo: WordTips
More commercial names, such as City of the Sleepy Ones (Iowa City) and Place of the White Onion (Chicago), are found in the Midwest. Omaha (Upstream People) refers to the Omaha Tribe, Indigenous people who resided in what is now northwestern Iowa and northeastern Nebraska. The name likely refers to their geographical location relative to other tribes along the Missouri River.
March 22, 2024
This Free Airline App Will Automatically Move You to Your Favorite Seat
United Airlines has been in the media quite a bit lately, mostly for issued related to airline safety: an engine caught on fire in the air on a flight to Florida, and a Mexico-bound United flight had to make an emergency landing after a system failure in early March.
But there’s one piece of good news for travelers who often fly with United. The airline announced an update to the United app that now allows users to — hopefully — get their favorite seat, even if it isn’t available while booking.
The feature is available to any traveler using the United app, regardless of status with the airline (thought it may take a few months for it to fully roll out). When choosing your seat, you may get a pop-up message asking if you’d prefer to sit somewhere better. If you click yes, you can select a seat preference, like a certain row or an aisle seat. If one of those becomes available, United will automatically move you to that seat and send a notification directly to your phone. According to reporting by The Points Guy, it’ll be available from booking all the way up to 12 hours before take off.
Photo: Postmodern Studio/Shutterstock
There’s no cost to use the service, though you’ll still need to manually change your seats if you try to make a day-of swap. And many seats on United flights, including exit row seats and those close to the front of the plane, are considered “Economy Plus,” which comes with an extra charge. But as long as you have the mostt updated version of the app, the feature should be available to you in the coming months.
The announcement comes on the heels of yet another change United customers might like: the ability to share frequent flyer points (formerly miles) with groups of up to five people.
Scammers Are Targeting People Who Complain About Air Travel Issues on X
Air travelers who want to have their issues with airlines resolved properly would do well to bypass social media and pick up the phone to call customer support instead — no matter how lengthy and irritating the process might be.
Ask Jo-Anne Galarneau whose delayed flight to St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada, could have cost her a lot more than a few lost hours if she had not been social media savvy.
According to an interview she gave to CBC, after venting her frustration about Air Canada’s delay on X and tagging the airline in her tweet, Galarneau was quickly approached by a slew of accounts all claiming to be representatives of the airline willing to help. Upon checking the accounts of those who contacted her, she noticed that while they did have the Air Canada logo as their profile photo, they did not have any followers. Galarneau understood that she was being targeted by scammers, so she ignored the messages and contacted the airline via its official website instead.
A few days later, however, the fake Air Canada customer support employees reached out again to Galarneau, saying they could help with her flight issues. Galarneau, aware of the ploy but keen to see how far the impersonators would go, went along with the bogus procedure.
The scammers asked for her booking reference number, which she provided, and then requested that she download Remitly, an app used for international money transfers, for her to receive a refund, but only in Kenyan dollars. When they asked for her bank account number, Galarneau put a stop to all communications and reached out to the airline and the proper authorities with screenshots to denounce the scam.
While airlines do have customer service representatives working on the official social media platforms, air travelers need to keep their wits about them and, like Galarneau, look into the accounts of those reaching out to them. If the accounts are not verified (on X that translates as a gold check mark symbol beside the account’s name) and have only a few followers, you should be very suspicious. Also, airline customer representatives will not ask you to share any financial information, or make and financial transaction via social media.
To be on the safe side, when in need, place a call to the airline’s customer support service, or contact the airline via its official website. If scammers have approached you, keep a record or the interactions, contact the airline, and report the situation online on the US government’s scams and fraud webpage or call 1-844-USAGOV1.
How Outdoor Alliance Has Saved the Natural Places We Love For 10 Years, and How You Can Help
Regenerative tourism is all the buzz in 2024. The term goes beyond sustainable travel and aims to have a positive impact on the destination’s environment and community, leaving it better than how it was found. This also can mean advocating for a better planet before you ever head out the door. Outdoor Alliance, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, is celebrating 10 years of doing just that across public lands in the United States.
The organization’s unique approach to conservation and advocacy emboldens everyday travelers and recreators to band together to leave a positive mark on their favorite places – and it’s working. The group’s coalition has collectively protected some 40 million acres of land over the past decade, much of which is accessible to the public for outdoor recreation. The coolest part is that anyone can get involved today and make their next trip into the outdoors that much more rewarding.
Celebrating a decade of effective advocacy“Everybody’s got a place that they love, everybody’s got a place that they care about,” says Outdoor Alliance founder and CEO Adam Cramer in a video produced by SolMtn Studios for the organization’s 10th anniversary. “[Outdoor Alliance is all about] getting kayakers, backcountry skiers, kayakers, mountain bikers, all leveraging their love of place to preserve and protect places at scale.”
Outdoor Alliance combines 10 national organizations across the US that advocate for the protection of public lands. If you’re an avid outdoor recreator, you may have heard of – or even contributed to – some of the organizations that make up the coalition, which include the Surfrider Foundation, International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA), American Alpine Club, and more.
The video above highlights a particular successful advocacy effort, the John D. Dingell Public Lands Package. WIth the support of its coalition and the general public who voiced support through the coalition, Outdoor Alliance lobbied DC to protect more than 14 million acres and permanently reauthorize a major water protection fund. The result is better trail access throughout the 13,420-acre Cerro Del Yuta Wilderness and 8,120-acre Rio San Antonio Wilderness of New Mexico.
How you can get involved
The John D. Dingell Public Lands Package protected more than 14 million acres including the Cerro Del Yuta Wilderness of New Mexico. Photo: Dylan R.N. Crabb/Shutterstock
Think of getting involved with the alliance and its coalition partners as a contribution to conservation and restorative travel – their work takes the coalition to Washington, DC, to advocate for conservation efforts and the end result is better public spaces for recreators, improved habitat for plant and wildlife and cleaner air for all to breathe. Their platform allows travelers to actively participate in projects that benefit the broader recreation environment.
Outdoor Alliance offers many ways you can help. The quickest is to visit its website and fill out its pre-generated forms to send letters to your local government representatives advocating for issues like natural climate solutions, equitable access, and protecting land and water. Financial donations are accepted, and all coalition members routinely host their own in-person volunteer opportunities and letter-writing campaigns through their websites.
You can also partake in conservation and regenerative travel efforts outside of the alliance itself. This can involve supporting businesses with sustainable practices, cultural immersion experiences or even volunteering for conservation efforts. The core idea is that tourism should be a two-way street, enriching both the visitors and the places they explore. Organizations like Outdoor Alliance make it easy to get involved – all it takes is a few clicks and a desire to do the right thing.
“We’re able to turn that power into on-the-ground results,” Cramer says in the video.
This 76-Mile Route in Nebraska Just Became North America’s First ‘quiet Trail’
Everyone understands why it’s important to reserve undeveloped areas — but even deep into the wilderness, there’s still one human-made thing that can be hard to avoid: noise.
But now, if you head to Nebraska, you can paddle, float, or hike near one of only two trails in the world designated as a “Quiet Trail” by Quiet Parks International.
The designation of Nebraska’s Niobrara National Scenic River as the first Quiet Trail in North America was announced in late 2023, making 2024 the ideal time to explore the trail’s 76 miles. The trail follows a section of the Niobrara Scenic River through the Great Plains, running from Valentine, NE, to just north of Newport, NE.
Photo: marekuliasz/Shutterstock
The river trail was selected as the second Quiet Trail in the world through a process that included quantitative audio testing and subjective takeaways from the Quiet Parks International selection team. “Beyond collecting standard acoustic data, each team member must agree, unanimously and unhesitatingly, that natural quite prevailed throughout the testing period,” said Quiet Parks International co-founder Gordon Hempton. “The Niobrara River’s splendid geologic landscape, unusual atmospheric conditions, and outstanding wildlife all contributed towards a positive outcome.”
The world’s first Quiet Trail is the Cuifeng Lake Circular Trail in Taiwan’s Taipingshan National Forest, which received the designation in 2022 and wraps around Taiwan’s largest lake.
The benefits of silencePhoto: Song_about_summer/Shutterstock
Silence and the sounds of nature offer a powerful double dose of benefits for our well-being. Silence itself can be a balm for our overloaded brains. In the quiet, we can experience a mental pause, lowering adrenaline and reducing stress. It’s also been shown to temporarily boost your creativity and make it easier to focus, which can help if you’re facing significant decisions or life choices that demand your undivided attention.
On a more superficial level, a reprieve from human sounds also allows you to better hear the sounds of nature. Studies have shown that listening to birdsongs, flowing water, and rustling leaves can do everything from lower your blood pressure to improve your mood to decrease your risk of cardiovascular disease. For most people, natural sounds trigger a relaxation response, countering the negative effects of constant noise pollution like highway noise, machines, and conversations.
“Quiet is rare globally, as 97% of the U.S. population faces noise pollution from sources like aviation and highways,” said Susan Cook, superintendent of the scenic river, in the release.
Other Quiet Places
Photo: Szilard Toth/Shutterstock
While the Niobrara National Scenic River is the first Quiet Trail in North America, it’s not the only location with a designation of some kind from Quiet Parks International. The gorgeous Glacier National Park in Montana was designated as a “Wilderness Quiet Park” in 2022, as was the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Minnesota in March of 2023. Like the new Nebraska site, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is primarily a paddling route, though it does have 12 miles of hiking trails and roughly 2,000 individual campsites.
Outside the US, the private island retreat of Cayo Loco in the Bahamas is designated as a “Quiet Place” — a designation for lodging and hotels that meet the organization’s criteria. In South America, Ecuador’s Kapawi Ecolodge — an Indigenous tourism cooperative in the Amazon — is also a Quiet Place, while the Zabalo River in Ecuador is also a Wilderness Quiet Park (the world’s first, no less).
While only a few places have an official awarded status, more than 150 locations around the world have been nominated and will eventually be evaluated for consideration. You can even nominate your favorite place via the Quiet Parks International website.
How to experience the Niobrara National Scenic River
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Canoeing, kayaking, and tubing are some of the most popular activities on the Niobrara. Options range from leisurely float trips through outfitters based in Valentine, Nebraska, or more adventurous paddle or canoe trips, tailored to your skill level and desired pace.
Hiking is also an option, with the long-distance Cowboy Trail starting very close to the visitors center. The one-mile Fort Falls hike is also popular year-round, and nearby wildlife refuges include the Valentine Area National Wildlife Refuge and the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge. The Valentine refuge is more than 71,000 acres and is huge with birders as it’s one of a few places to see the weird and wonderful prairie chicken; and Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge is home to bison and elk, with driving and hiking trails.
Chicago’s Soaring New Attraction Takes You Flying Over the Windy City
Amid the hustle and bustle of Chicago’s streets lies a new attraction offering an escape from the city’s frenetic energy. Located at Navy Pier, FlyOver Chicago is a recently unveiled adventure that invites you to embark on a journey through the heart of the Windy City — without ever leaving your seat. The immersive attraction unfolds in three stages, each activating the senses and bringing guests closer and closer to Chicago.
Photo: Jeanie Fang
The FlyOver journey begins when you step inside a dimly lit room filled with digital screens showcasing a glimpse into the daily lives of Chicagoans. Here, scenes unfold with cinematic flair, from a mother strolling with her child to the rhythmic dance of water waves and the sizzle of freshly made tacos. (If you’re understandably keen to try those tacos after the experience, you’ll find them at Rubi’s Tacos in the Pilsen neighborhood.)
The journey continues as you walk upstairs to the pre-show chamber. Here, a disc-shaped globe takes center stage among 360-degree screen projections, offering a glimpse into Chicago’s soul. Guests are treated to a symphony of storytelling from native Chicagoans and powerful music from the Soul Children’s Choir. Even if you don’t live locally, the pre-show’s portrayal of Chicago’s spirit, culture, and community will leave you feeling a sense of pride and admiration for the city.
Photo: Jeanie Fang
The pinnacle of the FlyOver experience awaits in the final phase when you’re seated in rollercoaster-style chairs, with staff close by to ensure that everyone is securely buckled in for the exhilarating voyage ahead. As the seats ascend and the screens come to life with panoramic aerial footage of Chicago captured via drone, you’re swept away on a thrilling 3D-like adventure, soaring above iconic landmarks and hidden treasures scattered throughout the city.
As the immersive spectacle unfolds, you’re treated to awe-inspiring sights, from the green Chicago River during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations to the electrifying performances of the city’s renowned air show and choir. But it’s the intimate glimpses of everyday life, viewed from a bird’s-eye perspective, that truly resonate. Witnessing a street sideshow take place while ballet dancers are practicing a few stories above, you’ll gain a newfound appreciation for the bustling rhythm of Chicago’s streets.
Each twist and turn of the journey evokes a sense of exhilaration akin to a rollercoaster ride. While the seats may not move dramatically, the masterful synchronization of visuals and effects creates the illusion of dynamic motion, heightening the sense of realism. Adding to the sensory experience are subtle scents wafting through the air, transporting guests to different scenes, along with refreshing splashes of water that further blur the line between reality and illusion. It’s these meticulously crafted details that elevate the experience, making it feel remarkably lifelike and immersive.
Photo: Jeanie Fang
FlyOver Chicago isn’t just an attraction; it’s a celebration of everything that makes Chicago unique. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, the experience promises to leave a lasting impression, offering fresh insights and newfound appreciation for the city’s charm and allure.
I had the privilege of engaging with some of the luminaries behind the scenes during my visit. Among them was Sherman ‘Dilla’ Thomas, a distinguished local Chicago historian, who revealed how FlyOver sought to illuminate Chicago through the lens of its inhabitants, leading him to guide FlyOver to uncover hidden gems and local hangouts. I also had the pleasure of speaking with Maudlyne Ihejirika, the talented narrator of the pre-show. With eloquence and passion, she described FlyOver as a “love letter to Chicago,” capturing the essence of the city’s soul and heritage.
Delving deeper into the intricacies of FlyOver’s production, I spoke with David Mossop, FlyOver’s Associate Creative Director and Film Producer. Mossop illuminated the extraordinary precision required to orchestrate the drone flights, ensuring they soared in at precisely the right moments and locations. This behind-the-scenes insight amplifies the appreciation for the ride, underscoring the immense effort and dedication invested in crafting such a breathtaking spectacle.
Photo: Jeanie Fang
To make the most of your FlyOver experience, consider booking a stay at the Sable Hotel on Navy Pier, a mere stroll away from the attraction. After indulging in the spectacle, venture out to explore the featured landmarks showcased in FlyOver, such as the iconic Manny’s Deli, renowned for its generations-old tradition of serving up generously portioned pastrami sandwiches.
Tickets for FlyOver Chicago are affordably priced at $24.95 for adults and $14.95 for children 13 and under, making it the perfect addition to any Chicago itinerary. So, whether you’re seeking a moment of respite from the city’s hustle and bustle or you’re eager to discover Chicago from a new perspective, FlyOver Chicago invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Windy City.
This Wellness Resort Is a Relaxing Retreat Just Outside Los Angeles
The Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village property in Southern California is a relaxing retreat in the foothills of the Santa Monica mountains. The hotel is less than 30 minutes West of the PCH and the sandy coastline and just an hour north of Los Angeles’ fast-paced urban sprawl.
The hotel encompasses an enormous, meticulously manicured 12 acres of land, including 230 guest rooms and 39 suites (making 269 accommodations total) spread across seven stories, and a myriad of outdoor spaces to explore on-site — including gardens with waterfalls, a greenhouse, walking paths, and the most recent addition to the property, an expensive outdoor pool area called “The Cove.”
The interior design is meant to emit a “Coastal California design meets old-Hollywood glam” aesthetic, with touches of semi-precious stones scattered throughout to add some sparkle. The overall color palette of the hotel draws from the nearby California coastal geography, bringing elegant beach vibes inside.
It’s such a large property that I had to ask for a map and directions to figure out how to get around. But once you have your bearings, it’s plenty easy to explore, and a great place to enjoy an urban retreat.
We hope you love the Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village! 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.
Dining on-site at the Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village
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Photo courtesy Four Seasons
There are a few on-site restaurant concepts and an extensive in-room dining menu for those who are more into “breakfast in bed.”
I liked to start my morning at Stir, the airy and bright on-site coffee spot — it became a daily routine for me while I visiting. It feels distinctly open-concept, a modern spot to grab a coffee or light meal and get some work done. The coffeeshop also makes for a great place to people watch over a housemade pastry and pressed juice.
For dinner, make a reservation at the property’s California Brasserie outpost, Coin & Candor, which is inherently inspired by the true “California dream” of “making it in a challenging industry through hard work, a bit of luck, and determination to never give up.
The restaurant takes its name by way of a man named David Murdock’s life story. In 1943, Murdock was a homeless veteran with just a nickel and a penny in his pocket — but when a good samaritan loaned him $1,200 to purchase a closing coffee shop, his entrepreneurial spirit was ignited. He quickly became a successful business owner who grew to own many situational companies (today, he’s Chairman and CEO of Dole Food Company.) Mr. Murdock has a direct connection to the property as the founding and driving principal of the Center for Health & Wellbeing, as he’s also invested in finding cures for chronic illness and investing in life expectancy research.
In addition to its fascinating backstory, Coin & Candor serves up great California-esque dishes, taking inspiration from Chef Jesus Medina’s experience working in kitchens worldwide. Diners will enjoy fresh ingredients sourced from local farms, the on-site garden, and fresh fish caught from Malibu waters.
My pro tip is to order anything pastry-related because Pastry Chef Patrick Fahy is known for his legendary baked goodies like the beloved warm red fife sourdough bread and even the delicious, gluten-free Pandebono. I appreciated that the dress code at Coin & Candor is “California casual” — come as you are, whether dressed up to the nines for a hot date night or sporting comfortable leggings and athletic wear.
Those craving sushi can stop into ONYX Restaurant, where diners can dive into modern Japanese and sushi dishes in a sultry, dimly lit atmosphere that feels intimate and upscale. For a relaxing poolside snack or meal during the day, The Cove Restaurant & Bar serves seasonal Baja and Mediterranean dishes and fresh cocktails.
Finally, those who seek a secluded, intimate spot to grab a drink to kick off the evening or a nightcap on the weekend over a special signature experience at Prosperous Penny, the on-site speakeasy space that serves artisan cocktails and small bites in a social but exclusive-feeling atmosphere.
The Center for Health & Wellbeing
Photo courtesy Four Seasons
The wellness scene at this hotel is practically unparalleled. The Center for Health & Wellbeing team uses an all-encompassing approach to wellness based on four pillars of health — Nutrition, Life Balance, Fitness, and Spa — to create a balanced experience for visitors.
With this holistic attitude, “wellness” is not just about spa-going or achieving physical fitness (although the extensive fitness offerings like personal training sessions, guided hikes, and spa treatments including facials and massages might be enough of a temptation to visit).
Guests can go beyond the norms of traditional health regimes and sign up for nutrition experiences like a “Metabolism Assessment,” work on strategizing their life balances with relationship and family therapy, ease their minds with guided meditations and sound bath healing classes, and learn techniques for stress reduction. Even better — any guest can spend time inside the spa during their visit — it’s not exclusive to those booked in for a treatment.
I was visiting to experience an individual “wellness retreat,” in which The Center of Health & Wellbeing team gave me a customized schedule. There are three categories for wellness retreats: “Sustainable Weight Management,” “Optimum Performance,” and “Spa and Beauty.”
Included in my “Spa & Beauty” package, I enjoyed two nights of accommodations, three healthy “Feel Good Meals” per day, access to the daily rotating health and fitness classes, and one “wellbeing elective” per day. Since mine was spa and beauty-focused, I was offered two spa treatments — but if you’re there for “optimum performance,” you will get different options, like a Target Heart Rate Assessment.
My facial and massage treatments were divine — and I had never had a facial before, so I was a bit nervous. But the esthetician was an expert at her job and made me feel relaxed. After the treatment, I felt and looked like I was glowing.
Those who want to visit for just the day can invest in a “Wellbeing Day Pass,” which includes access to daily group well-being classes and workshops on-site, access to the center’s offerings as well as a wellness lunch served poolside, and one wellness elective to choose from the fitness, mind-body, or nutrition offerings.
Outside the spa, fitness fans like me will be enthralled with the enormous 16,000-square-foot Fitness Center, which has dozens of cardio machines, weight training stations, and a dedicated yoga/pilates studio. Accredited trainers host regular classes, and any guest can sign up for rotating options each day, ranging from indoor cycling classes to pilates, among other cardio and balance experiences.
I took one of the yoga classes and a “functional fitness” class. The sense of community and camaraderie between the guests and the employees stood out to me at the entire property, and especially at the gym.
Let’s focus on the spa – because it’s fantasticThe spa itself is immaculate, encompassing 40,000 square feet and boasting 28 treatment rooms (all with private terraces), including four suites with a private patio and plunge pool.
A wooden Chinese footbridge connected the spa’s two treatment room wings over a water feature amid the orchid-accented lounge spaces (one for men, one for women, and one co-ed space). There were also whirlpool water features in the women’s and men’s locker rooms.
It was relaxing just to lay inside on one of the daybeds and admire the design elements like the onyx-accented ceilings and bamboo floors. Outside, the adults-only serenity pool adjacent to the spa was a great space to soak up sun and sunshine, and it connected directly to The Cove.
Guest rooms at the Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village
Photo courtesy Four Seasons
I spent the weekend in a “Waterfall View” room with a large bathroom, a deep soaking tub, and lovely views of the landscaped property below. I liked the room’s relaxed color scheme — an array of shades of whites and blues and plenty of natural light. It felt soft and simple but elegant and sophisticated — not too over-the-top — and was meant to evoke feelings of being near the sea. Taking luxury to the next level, rooms were even equipped with those high-tech “Ember” coffee cups to keep your coffee warm for hours. And the bed was extremely comfortable.
Other on-site activities and amenitiesGuests can’t miss the dedicated arcade area downstairs adjacent to the fitness center, which has plenty of entertainment, including video games and traditional games to play no matter what age you are (literally or just in spirit).
There are three pools to check out. The indoor family pool is connected to the fitness center and can be a great spot to relax, rain or shine — and it’s kid-friendly. The Outdoor Tranquility Pool is available to guests 18 and older, feeling like a sunny oasis. It’s attached to the spa and serves light bites and drinks to your reclining pool chair.
Other organized off-site activities available to guests include golf, watersports, hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails near the property. There’s also rock climbing in Malibu, Malibu wine-tasting experiences, and plenty of upscale shopping opportunities.
Photo courtesy Four Seasons
The Cove“The Cove Pool, Kitchen & Bar” area is a special spot on-site — and it’s not just any regular hotel pool complex — it feels like the ultimate oasis of relaxation. The Cove debuted in late 2023, taking up more than two acres of buzzy social space at the property.
The Cove’s design elements are meant to evoke the feeling of sitting by the seaside, with blue and white decorative color elements that mimic a scene of sitting on the beach. There’s even a vaulted white and aluminum steel canopy to offer shade, meant to mimic the movement an ocean wave would have.
There are three whirlpool spas, a large pool, lounge seating, and private daybeds for rent, an area with a hammock to lounge in, and a raised bocce ball court. There’s also a raised bar and dining space to either hang out and watch a sports game on the television or order food and drinks delivered right to your chair via a poolside server.
I enjoyed the light atmosphere at The Cove — it feels like a spot you’d want to hang out for hours upon hours on a summer day with family or friends. Their cocktail selection was refreshing, and the food items were like an elevated version of what you’d expect to be able to order poolside, with a Mediterranean twist.
On-site art galleryThe art gallery was another detail of the property I thought was neat and unique. During my visit, it showcased the work of MegZany, a street artist sharing bold and provocative pieces, and the work of ZanyStudios, which represents artists from across the globe, curating and creating a collection of contemporary art (which was available for purchase on-site).
Details that make the Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village stand out
Photo courtesy Four Seasons
I’m always impressed with the level of service I experience at a Four Seasons brand hotel. I appreciate how team members treat guests in an attentive but relaxed way to make them feel like they are in a natural friendship. This property, in particular, feels like a haven you could hide away in and enjoy a relaxing retreat to recharge without losing the comforts of being in Southern California (like the consistently sunny, warm weather and proximity to many nearby attractions).
Those seeking an overhaul of their health and wellness regime and who could use guidance in setting new habits can benefit from a “wellness stay” on-site, whether for an individual visit or a guided wellness retreat.
I appreciate that you don’t have to go two hours into the countryside to feel like you’re escaping the stress of the city with this property. Based on my experience, I believe it’s a great destination to escape the hustle of Los Angeles life, hosting everything needed to relax and feel like you’re a world away from the chaos of every day while only being a few miles outside (and still accessible to) the excitement of the city.
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