Matador Network's Blog, page 195

The 10 Top Rated Restaurants in Palm Springs

Palm Springs has long been a popular spot for weekenders thanks to luxe hotels, wellness opportunities, incredibly trendy Airbnbs (including relaxing Airbnbs with pools and Airbnbs perfect for a bachelorette party), and desert adventure. And while the restaurant scene has historically focused around upscale hotel restaurants and long-standing diners, there’s a case to be made that there’s never been a more exciting time for restaurants in the area.

“We have been operating restaurants in Palm Springs since 2016, and I have seen an uptick in quality options for dining out,” says Liz Ostoich, the owner of Clandestino, FARM, and Tac/Quila. Ostoich notes that more varied options is one side of how restaurants in Palm Springs have gained ground, as well as spots that provide an experience with thoughtful interior design, top-quality chefs and bartenders, and a celebration of local produce. There’s also an uptick in plant-based restaurants.

Palms Springs is constantly evolving and “stepping up” its plant-based options, Tanya Petrovna, owner of the popular tempeh burger joint Chef Tanya’s Kitchen, tells Matador. This is mirrored in positive reviews on Yelp and Google Maps.

Matador combed through Yelp and Google to find the highest rated restaurants in Palm Springs. Those ratings, both out of five, were then added together for an aggregate rating of the top-rated places to eat. To ensure the establishments have their feet under the table, any place with less than 250 reviews was excluded. Customer reviews, of course, aren’t always the best metric — they can be gamed with things like giveaways, for one, and the rating that one person leaves may be influenced by ordering something they wouldn’t have liked anyway. That said, a combination of reviews across the two popular platforms is an excellent place to start when planning on where to eat.

If you’re planning a desert getaway, here are the best restaurants in Palm Springs according to customer ratings.

Traveling to Southern California? Check out Matador’s California accommodations guides: Get The Most Out of Palm Springs At These Guest Favorite Airbnbs 8 Gorgeous Palm Springs Airbnbs With Private Pools The 9 Best Palm Springs Airbnbs for a Bachelorette Party to Remember These Are the Best Cannabis-Friendly Airbnbs in Los Angeles 9 dreamy oceanfront Airbnbs up and down the California coast 10 soulful beach Airbnbs for the perfect SoCal yoga retreat

Chef Tanya’s Kitchen

Photo: Chef Tanya’s Kitchen

Rating: 9.7 (4.8 Google Maps, 4.9 Yelp)

At first glance, Chef Tanya’s Kitchen’s plant-based restaurant might be considered a breakfast or lunch hang, but the kitchen stays open until 8 PM and serves hearty salads such as the OhMyGatoTaco and the Tasty Thai Tofu with roasted peanut dressing and Tempeh Powerburgers — perfect for a grab-and-go casual healthy dinner.

Petrovna learned how to make seitan and fresh cultured tempeh while in college in the ’80s. Today, Chef Tanya’s Kitchen’s tempeh is cultured in-house for the potato bun burgers (and other dishes) and has gathered quite a cult following in Palm Springs. The loaded Gordo Chili Cheese burger is a fan favorite. It’s stacked with Heirloom Rancho Gordo bean chili, vegan cheese, barbecue sauce, red onion, and jalapeño pickle. The burger is “so bomb we have to serve it in a bowl,” Petrovna says.

The restaurant and deli have rave reviews on both Yelp and Google Maps. As well as creative and delicious dishes, attentive and friendly service has led to the business earning an almost perfect score. From take-out sandwiches to sit-down bowls of chili, customers have positive things to say about the quality of produce and flavor combinations. It seems Palm Springs is all aboard the plant-based train.

Chef Tanya’s Kitchen: 706 S Eugene Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92264

Peruvian Fuego

Photo: Peruvian Fuego

Rating: 9.4 (4.7 Google Maps, 4.7 Yelp)

Peruvian Fuego brings the flavors of Peru to Palm Springs. The small restaurant has top-notch service and is a great spot for lunch or dinner. The owner, Hyron, tells Matador that the lomo saltado, ceviche, and rotisserie chicken are all favorites. Marinaded in spices and Peruvian peppers, the rotisserie chicken (roasted over hickory chips) sells out daily. It’s a perfect sharing dish and can be paired with sides such as yuca fries and chocolo con queso (Peruvian corn with fresh cheese). Ceviches come with the house leche de tigre, Peruvian corn, and ad cancha (toasted Andean dried corn maize).

If you’re visiting Palm Springs with a group, Peruvian Fuego is an excellent option. Hyron’s authenticity and helpful service shine through the many Yelp reviews. Patron Roz E says Peruvian Fuego is “one of the best places we’ve been to during our trip in the Palm Springs area.”

Peruvian Fuego: 1751 N Sunrise Way Suite F1, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Clandestino

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Rating: 9.4 (4.7 Google Maps, 4.7 Yelp)

Clandestino sits next to the San Jacinto Mountains off the main strip. Run by the owners of FARM and Tac/Quila, Clandestino is described as being “Tac/Quila’s moody sister.”

Expect Latin American small plates and hand-crafted cocktails. Try the “signature fried squash blossoms, filled with delicious melting Oaxaca cheese,” says Elizabeth Perezchica, general manager of Clandestino, or the vegan cauliflower poblano mole. Perezchica’s standout favorite, however, is the salmon with napa cabbage, pico de gallo, and dill cream sauce, pocketed in a house-made corn tortilla.

The high level of service is similar to what you can expect at the sister restaurants. “At Clandestino, we believe in delivering an unforgettable dining experience,” says Perezchica, “where every detail is meticulously curated to delight our guests.” And indeed, this sentiment is mirrored throughout the five-star reviews on Yelp. “The service was well done”, says patron Mylexus P. “All servers were professional, knew the menu well, and were able to suggest some popular items,” they continue. Book a table on the patio and enquire about the “secret menu” at the bar.

Clandestino: 175 N Palm Canyon Dr suite 160, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Miro’s Restaurant

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Rating: 9.2 (4.7 Google Maps, 4.5 Yelp)

Miro’s is a Yugoslavian family-run restaurant serving hearty homestyle European dishes such as schnitzel, beef stroganoff, and osso buco. Since opening in 1994, it’s grown into a trusted establishment, promising reliable and warm service, excellent produce, and substantial portions. The beautifully lit leafy courtyard tables add to the charm.

Miro’s prides itself on the selection of rare bottles of wine from countries such as Austria, Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The knowledgeable sommelier can talk you through the wine list and assist with food pairings.

A staple in the Palm Springs restaurant scene, the long list of helpful and five-star reviews on Yelp are from both loyal patrons and visitors. “If you’re looking for a classy food establishment without all the fuss, this place is a no-brainer,” says repeat customer and reviewer Mark B. “This is a place that always draws me in. It could be the incredibly friendly service or just the deep dive into ethnic comfort food that was so much a part of my childhood. Either way, I’m a fan,” proclaims Mark.

Miro’s Restaurant: 1555 S Palm Canyon Dr ste h-101, Palm Springs

FARM

Photo: Farm/Jose PachecoPhoto: Farm/Jose PachecoPhoto: Farm/Jose Pacheco

Rating: 9.1 (4.7 Google Maps, 4.4 Yelp)

Known for its traditional Provençal cuisine, FARM’s patio setting is surrounded by greenery and floral arrangements, creating a garden oasis in the desert. While FARM offers a seasonal menu, some of their most popular dinner dishes include the savory crepes (French ham, Gruyére, and a sunny egg is a hit); duck confit with slow-cooked lentils, braised beets, and a blackberry sauce; and wagyu top sirloin steak with broccoli macaroni and cheese and sautéed asparagus.

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner. However, breakfast and lunch are walk-in only. You can’t go wrong with what time of day you visit, but dinner offers a more elevated fine dining experience. Overall feedback on the quality of dishes and the charming atmosphere is positive from both locals and visitors. Five-star reviewer Amy S says, “I’m literally so in love with this spot and would have happily eaten there every day (maybe even for every meal) while in Palm Springs recently for a long weekend with friends.”

FARM: 6 La Plaza, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Bar Cecil

Photo: Bar CecilPhoto: Bar CecilPhoto: Bar Cecil

Rating: 9 (4.5 Google Maps, 4.5 Yelp)

Bar Cecil has had a couple of number ones since opening in 2021: The $50 martini and the Beaton Burger.

To dine here, you’ll need to be prepared to wait in line (walk-ins are welcome at the bar at 5 PM sharp). Unless, that is, you’re horribly organized and book a table 30 days in advance. Let’s not sugarcoat the situation: Reservations are hard to get. Your best bet is to keep an eye on OpenTable and set cancelation notifications, then pray to the god of splurge-worthy martinis for success.

That said, a walk-in bar seat is more than sufficient. It gives you a front-row view of the seamless bartenders as they pour Jean-Charles Boisset vodka and Alessio Dry vermouth into a chilled martini glass, garnish with a house pickled onion, and serve with a deviled egg, caviar, and sunchoke chips. Couple that with a splash of Sancerre, half a dozen oysters, steak tartar, and escargot, and you’ve got yourself a pretty sweet setup. For those with an appetite, the Beaton Burger, with the signature aioli and fresh-cut fries, has been called one of the best burgers in California (with an option to make it an Impossible Burger for an extra $4).

Yelp reviewers recommend Bar Cecil for a date night or weekend treat. High rankings are paired with return customers. “I can honestly say Bar Cecil continuously stands out as the best dining experience I’ve had in Palm Springs,” says Yelp reviewer Austin J. “Having been enchanted by its charm on three occasions, I can confidently say that every visit has been nothing short of extraordinary,” he continues.

Bar Cecil: 1555 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264

Tac/Quila

Photo: Tac/Quila/Jose PachecoPhoto: Tac/Quila/Jose PachecoPhoto: Tac/Quila/Jose Pacheco

Rating: 9 (4.6 Google Maps, 4.4 Yelp)

“Here at Tac/Quila, we have a balance between Palm Springs locals enjoying their favorite dishes and tourists from all over flocking to taste our fresh food and snap shots of our colorful cocktails,” Amanda Jasso, Tac/Quila’s general manager, says. “Expect to see margarita flights, our tepache colada, and house favorite, the tres agave, on the table.” The must-order margarita flight changes with the season.

Tac/Quila is one of the best spots for Mexican food in the city. It relies heavily on fresh produce, and 75 percent of that is organic. Each dish is prepared on the day of service. Fan favorites include fajitas dishes and the carne asada tacos with corn tortillas lovingly made from scratch. For those who want to deviate from the traditional, there are a few elevated dishes to get excited about. The ahi taco — sushi grade ahi, mango salsa, cabbage, cilantro, and avocado — is mentioned in multiple reviews. As are the jackfruit enchiladas. “Chef David Arreguin introduced three flavors of Aguachile and vegan jackfruit enchiladas this season. They are a huge hit,” Jasso says. Enjoy these with the Tepache Colado — tequila, coconut, lime, and chinola liquor with toasted coconut flakes around the rim. “It’s like a vacation for your lips,” Jasso says.

As an establishment with more than 2,000 reviews on both Yelp and Google, it stands up very well with its overall rating. This could be in part thanks to the tres leche desert, which customer Alex L calls “the real deal.”

Tac/Quila: 415 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Eight4Nine

Photo: Eight4Nine

Rating: 8.8 (4.5 Google Maps, 4.3 Yelp)

The contemporary restaurant Eight4Nine is located in the fashionable Uptown Design District of Palm Springs. With pops of color, the decor is ’90s Miami, and the menu is high-end and interesting. There are some standouts: the roasted cauliflower steak served with romesco sauce, pine nuts, golden raisins, and lemon herb ricotta; the miso-marinated Chilean sea bass; and grass-fed beef skirt steak with refried pintos, yellow corn esquites, and pico de gallo.

Eight4Nine offers a variety of catering services. They accommodate groups of 10 to 300 people, making it a excellent option for special events. The restaurant opened its doors in 2015, and since then, it’s had a lot of good feedback — especially for the VIP service. It’s popular for business dinners, pre-arranged group bookings, and with couples.

Eight4Nine: 849 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Copley’s on Palm Canyon

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Rating: 8.6 (4.4 Google Maps, 4.2 Yelp)

Housed in a beautifully restored 1940s estate (once a guesthouse of Cary Grant), Copley’s has some of the best views in Palm Springs. It offers a casual, yet refined dining experience, perfect for a Palm Springs date night. Serving contemporary American dishes such as prime New York steak with caramelized onion and fennel, sautéed asparagus, and truffle parmesan fries; and swordfish with squash spaghetti and a smoked cherry tomato vinaigrette. Mains range from $29 to $56. Desserts are classic — try the chocolate souffle or vanilla and peach creme brulee — and finish the night with one of the vintage ports or a grappa di moscato.

Copley’s on Palm Canyon: 621 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Rooster And The Pig

Photo: Rooster And The PigPhoto: Rooster And The PigPhoto: Rooster And The Pig

Rating: 8.6 (4.5 Google Maps, 4.1 Yelp)

The low-key Rooster and the Pig is located off the main drag and hidden at the back of a strip mall. It’s run by chef Tai Spendley, who has brought Vietnamese recipes with a modern Southern California spin to Palm Springs. Spendley learned to cook from his mother and has crafted a fun menu with highlights such as panko-crusted chicken-stuffed rice balls, pork belly fried rice, Jasmine tea leaf salad, and the Chinese sausage roll.

The cashless restaurant is walk-in only, and you might find yourself rubbing shoulders with a few celebs — it’s a favorite spot of Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid, after all.

Rooster And The Pig: 356 S Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262

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These Merrell Hiking Boots Are Perfect for Casual Hikers

It’s hard to emphasize how important good footwear is when it comes to working out. Just imagine wearing a pair of Converse the next time you want to hit the treadmill or some high heels to play football. Well-crafted shoes can make all the difference on how enjoyable – or how painful – your workout can be. This is especially true for hiking, where uneven terrain, substantial physical effort, and the elements can all add to the pressures of finding the perfect shoe.

From avoiding blisters to having a cushioned interior to avoid muscle fatigue, I’ve found the Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX, on sale at REI for $180 in both men’s and women’s varieties, to be the ultimate choice for leveling up my shoe game when I’m exploring the great outdoors here in Pennsylvania. With a trusted brand history and a shoe that toes the line perfectly between sneaker and boot, I was sold (or should I say “soled”) the first time I slipped them on.

We hope you love the Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX hiking boots! 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.

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A brief history of Merrell

Photo: v74/Shutterstock

In 1981, Clark Matis and John Schweizer, both executives at the Rossignol ski company, set out to revolutionize the hiking boot industry. Their vision? To create footwear that seamlessly combined rugged performance with unmatched comfort, setting the stage for what became one of the top-selling outdoor gear companies on the market today.

Fast forward to 1997, when Merrell found a steadfast partner in Wolverine World Wide, a veritable titan in the shoe industry. Since this partnership, Merrell has only grown in its global reach and reputation, taking the best of Wolverine’s initiatives and applying them directly to the Merrell brand.

Today, Merrell is one of the top-selling brands for outdoor kicks, thanks in part to the steadfast approach to its underlying principles, which hasn’t changed in more than 40 years. While there may be more tactical shoes, or more heavy-duty boots, on the market, Merrell’s approach to blending performance and style into one shoe remains unmatched for the casual hiker (of which I certainly consider myself).

Why the Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX hiking bootsPhoto: REIPhoto: REIPhoto: REI

It’s hard to overstate the variety of ways in which Merrell has improved on its Moab shoes over the past near-decade to make them one of the best on the market for comfort, performance, and style. Each decision to enhance the relatively limited real estate of the GTX is both considered and important to the overall functionality of the shoe itself. Some of these improvements include:

GORE-TEX waterproof Mmbranes: I felt able to embrace the elements with confidence as GORE-TEX waterproof membranes ensure exceptional breathability and waterproof performance, keeping your feet dry and comfortable in any weather condition.Durable construction: Engineered with nylon ripstop and TPU uppers, along with padded collars and protective abrasion-resistant toe and heel caps, these boots are built to withstand the toughest terrain, offering unmatched durability and protection.Debris defense: Say goodbye to bothersome debris on the trail, thanks to bellows tongues that effectively keep out unwanted dirt and rocks, allowing me to focus solely on the adventure at hand.Convenience redefined: Dual heel and tongue loops not only facilitate easy entry but also offer carabiner compatibility, ensuring my feet are always ready for the next outdoor excursion.Sustainable design: Merrell’s commitment to sustainability shines through with 100 percent recycled laces, webbing, and breathable mesh linings, as well as removable 5 percent recycled polyurethane footbeds and 100 percent recycled mesh footbed covers, reducing environmental impact without compromising on performance.Trail-ready confidence: Secure-fit heel counters and full-length rock plates instill unwavering confidence on the trail, ensuring stability and protection in any terrain or weather condition.Optimized stability: Lightweight FlexPlate technology offers torsional rigidity coupled with forefoot stability, enhancing agility and control on varied terrain, while FloatPro Foam midsoles provide lasting lightweight comfort.Exceptional traction: Conquer any outdoor adventure with Vibram TC5+ outsoles, exclusively formulated for Merrell, delivering exceptional traction and grip on diverse surfaces. The 4 mm Vibram traction lugs are strategically designed to increase traction and shed debris with each step. I’ve remained sure-footed on each of the several hikes I’ve taken these boots on.Return policy

REI’s return policy is in play here, which works to your benefit especially If you’re an REI Co-Op member. If so, you’re able to get up to an entire year to return your shoes if they’re not right for you (this is limited to a still-generous 90 days if you’re not a member).

Returns can be made by mail or in-store. Make sure to have your proof of purchase if returning in-store. If doing so online, you can use their form and a printable label will be supplied (note that you’ll be charged a $5.99 fee to cover the return shipping cost).

Final thoughts

Photo: REI

Being a relative novice when it comes to hiking, I’m happy to have gone with the Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX boots as my first upgrade for hiking gear versus, say, my regular ole’ Nike tennis shoes. I could immediately tell the difference in wearing a pair of shoes that are specifically designed for long-term wear with comfort and safety in mind. Having pretty weak angles, the extra support on the shoe was appreciated as the terrain in Pennslyvania can go from steep to very steep to rocky relatively quickly; but I never felt like I was going to slip and fall in the GTX’s versus other shoes I’ve worn in the past.

Overall, I don’t think I’ll be using REI’s one-year return policy and these Merrells are here to stay for me. If anything, I’ll probably be grabbing a second pair soon – I’m quite fond of the green “Coyote” colorway, having first gone with the more toned-down Asphalt grey to start with.

Buy Now – Men’s

Buy Now – Women’s

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Check Out These Cannabis-Friendly Airbnbs in Kansas City, Missouri

Geography earned Kansas City, MO, its status as the “Heart of America”. A vibrant arts, sports, and music scene has solidified KCMO as a city that represents the culture of the Midwest. On top of that, cannabis has recently been legalized for recreational use in Missouri. As no cannabis products can cross into the state of Kansas, you’ll need to choose accommodation on the “green” side of the state line if you’re planning on visiting KCMO and KCK. These are the best cannabis-friendly Airbnbs in Kansas City, Missouri.

Check out Matador’s full rundown of Kansas City Airbnbs.

Looking for Cannabis-Friendly Airbnbs? Check out Matador’s selection of the best 420-friendly accommodations: These Colorado Airbnbs Are Cannabis-Friendly and Perfect for Travelers These Are the Best Cannabis-Friendly Airbnbs in Los Angeles Exhale and Relax at These Cannabis-Friendly Airbnbs in Chicago The Top Cannabis-Friendly Airbnbs in New York Get Green at These Cannabis-Friendly Airbnbs in San Diego The Top Cannabis-Friendly Airbnbs in San Francisco Live the High Life at These Cannabis-Friendly Airbnbs in California Many Major Hotels in Denver Are Secretly 420-Friendly. Here’s How To Find and Book One

 

We hope you love these cannabis-friendly Airbnbs in Kansas City! 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.

Cannabis-friendly artist bungalow near Plaza AreaPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosOnce in a blue moon, you find a dog-friendly Airbnb with no pet fee and get the green light to smoke a bud. That’s the deal with this one-of-a-kind cottage next to Brush Creek and the buzzing Plaza district of Kansas City. As the permanent home of a local artist, the entire property is beautifully put together with modern art on the walls and trinkets on the shelves. Spend evenings decompressing on the verandah with a smoke overlooking the green front yard.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $217 per night

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Airbnb Room in a 420-friendly hostel with a speakeasyPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis listing is one of several rooms in a kooky new hostel two miles east of downtown Kansas City. Besides the room, you’ll have use of a shared bathroom and the right to roam through all communal lounges where you can mingle with other guests in the speakeasy or keep to yourself in the gallery. It’s richly curated with vintage furniture and olde-worlde ornamentation and has a hipster vibe. Cannabis consumption is fine in all outdoor areas and vaping is permitted inside.

One guest, one bedroom
Price: $33 per night

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VIP Airbnb Room north of KCMOPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosSpend the night in one of Missouri’s most stunning properties by letting this private room with a shared bathroom. You’re welcome to cook in the kitchen, hang out in the lounge, and take a dip in the seasonal backyard pool. This is the five-star experience complete with fluffy bathrobes and wine on arrival – it’s more akin to a boutique hotel than self-catered accommodation. The host couple is happy for guests to smoke cannabis in outdoor spaces only.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $55 per night

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Hot tub oasis 15 minutes from downtownPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosOut in the satellite city of Independence, this is one of the best 420-friendly Airbnbs in Kansas City, MO, for travelers dipping into state history. The property has a vast backyard with a hot tub, fire pit, tetherball, and bespoke murals. Any marijuana consumption is to be enjoyed solely in the outdoor areas and the hosts appreciate a heads-up. Dogs are also welcome and will relish the fenced yard. Beds are topped with memory foam mattresses and the kitchen is what all hosts should aspire to.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $114 per night

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420-friendly Airbnb home in downtown Kansas CityPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis top-rated rental unit is lit in more ways than one. Firstly, all spaces are flooded with natural light courtesy of the huge bay window and patio doors. Secondly, marijuana consumption is welcome. All cigarettes and tobacco products must be taken outdoors. All appliances are in good nick and the huge fitted kitchen makes cooking while on vacation feel like less of a chore. This is a quiet, residential neighborhood less than a 10-minute drive to downtown and the Plaza.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $160 per night

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This Toiletry Bag Optimizes Space So Well You Can Nearly Double Your Dopp Gear

For the majority of last year, my toiletry bag was a giant Ziploc bag. A gallon freezer variety, to be exact. The reason was that my old toiletry bag (or Dopp kit, if you want to get all fancy about it) just wasn’t cutting it. The zipper wouldn’t close all the way, which had caused a couple of leaking fiascos on my most recent trip to Hawaii, and Cancun before that.

In frustration, I turned to the food storage aisle of my local Wal-Mart. And it worked – for a time. But do you know how thin a Ziploc bag is? Especially if you fill it to the brim with cologne, sunscreen, a face cream, a night cream, and God knows what else I convince myself I need to take with me on a three-day holiday? And, do you know how easy it is to puncture that bag when you throw a pair of tweezers into the mix?

So, in my despair – quite defeated, really – I turned back to finding the right toiletry bag for me. And not only did I find one I liked. I found the perfect one. The platonic ideal of Dopp kits, if I do say so myself: Peak Design’s Wash Pouch, for sale at REI for $59.95.

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We hope you love the Peak Design Wash Pouch! 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.

Peak Design Wash Pouch – the right toiletry bag for optimizing your travel space

the holding slots and internal pouches make it easy to store many small items. Photo: REI

The reason I fell in love with this toiletry bag is for its use of interior real estate to get the most out of the fairly small footprint of the item. Coming in at only 10.2” x 6” x 4.4”, it’s a fairly standard size, but I found the layers of pockets, zippers, and closures to be perfectly situated to allow for maximum storage. This allowed me to easily keep the hotel bathroom organized on my most recent trip for work; and, in turn, made repacking a breeze before my 10 am check-out.

The interior layout made it easy to keep everything in its place when not in use. I found that the main component could fit my larger items, like deodorant and sunscreen, while the mesh internal side pocket was perfect for storing my cologne and prescription bottle, ensuring nothing toppled over in transit. There is even an interior toothbrush pouch with a magnetic zipper, so I don’t have to worry about cross-contamination and getting everything too gunky on my way home.

Not only that, but the materials used seemed to be thoughtful in design as well as functionality. Peak Design is known for well-crafted travel products, so it shouldn’t have surprised me as much as it did to find just how durable everything felt. From the TPU-coated nylon mesh pockets to the weatherproof 200-denier nylon exterior, I didn’t think twice when I jammed the Wash Pouch into my over-stuffed bag before checking it.

Other features of the Peak Design Wash Pouch

Even when stuffed, it zips up no problem. Photo: REI

When it comes down to it, Peak Design made a product that isn’t going to disappoint. I’m happy with the quality and I can tell that every inch of the design has been considered. Beyond the storage capacity, Peak Design also elevated this bag through:

Versatility with Small Spaces: It stands tall on the countertop or conveniently hangs using a foldable hook, ensuring your toiletries are always within reach without any risk of spills.Easy Maintenance: Its pockets effortlessly flip inside out for swift cleaning.Space-Saving Design: With its compact size, it fits into narrow areas.Convenient Portability: Equipped with an external grab handle, it offers easy portability.Commitment to Sustainability: The materials used (such as the 200-denier nylon) is 100 percent recyclable, showing Peak Design’s commitment to sustainability in practice.Return policy

If you buy this toiletry bag through REI, you’re subject to its (quite generous) return policy. If you’re an REI Co-Op member, you’re able to get up to an entire year to return your gear if they’re not right for you (this is limited to a still-generous 90 days if you’re not a member). A few exceptions apply to this timeline, including outdoor electronic and resell gear, which doesn’t apply here, but is still good to note!

You can make your return by mail or in-store. Make sure to have your proof of purchase if returning in-store. If doing so online, you can use their form and a printable label will be supplied (note that you’ll be charged a $5.99 fee to cover the return shipping cost).

Final thoughts on the Peak Design Wash Pouch

It looks pretty cool, too. Photo: REI

I’d started to feel like Goldilocks when it came to Dopp kits (this one too small, this one too flimsy), I have to say, Peak Design’s Wash Bag is juuuuust right. Between its clever use of interior pockets to maximize storage to its use, I’ve already promised this little bag of mine a few upcoming trips to NYC, Batumi, and London in our near future together. [mn-post-sender]

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Cruising on the Norwegian Viva Is Your Ticket to Freedom and Flexibility at Sea

I took my first cruise in 2022 with low expectations and a mindset influenced by all the negative stigmas I’d heard about cruising. By the end of that voyage, I finally understood the allure of an all-inclusive oceanborne vacation, and I’ve tried ever since to correct my non-cruising friends’ misconceptions. It’s easy to sing the praises of endless food and drinks, tanning on a pool deck, and seeing some cool islands, but my argument always fell apart when they inevitably retorted: “But there’s no freedom. You’re confined to a giant floating hotel, and on a strict timetable for exploring the ports, right?”

No, you can’t pull a Robinson Crusoe, hire a dingy, explore the ocean on your own, and set up camp on an uninhabited island. You will spend a lot of time on the ship, and when you dock in ports, you’ll have limited time to explore them. But that doesn’t mean you don’t have freedom or flexibility on your voyage. If you know how to maximize your time, both on board and on shore, you’ll realize just how much independence you have, and how many opportunities there are for creative fun.

I never truly realized this until earlier this year when I took a seven-night voyage with Norwegian Cruise Line from San Juan to six Caribbean islands — one island per day — aboard the Norwegian Viva. Head throbbing with a hangover from my night out in Old San Juan, the rhythmic salsa percussion still ringing in my ears, I readied to board and wondered if my friends were right. This voyage was longer than my last one. Maybe I would get bored. Maybe I would feel restricted.

If I had known what awaited me on the Viva, it would have made the hangover much more bearable. As it turned out, traditional cruising tropes and expectations didn’t quite apply to the Norwegian Viva. Norwegian’s newest ship is a floating roulette wheel of activities that quite literally never stops spinning. If that sounds a little stressful, well, it is. But in the best way possible.

A roulette wheel of activities on board the Norwegian Viva

I heard a statistic recently that claimed that 50 percent of cruise passengers don’t leave the ship when it docks in ports, instead choosing to enjoy the amenities on board. Whether or not that’s accurate, I have no idea, but one thing is certainly true: a lot more people stayed on the Viva on shore days than I expected. The reason why is immediately clear when you explore the ship. There’s so much to do there’s simply not enough hours in a day – or in a week – to do it all.

Indeed, a friend of mine had grand ambitions to try every single ship activity in a 24-hour span — and failed miserably. Kind of like showing up to a Golden Corral with a big smile and huge appetite, only to tap out after four plates thanks to the buffet’s sheer enormity.

Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line

Adrenaline seekers have the Viva Speedway, a three-level racetrack that wraps around the ship. It’s no Rainbow Road, but it’s tough to top the views from this Mario Kart-esque experience as you race your friends while looking out over the ocean horizon. Unlike Mario Kart, though, slamming into other drivers will earn you no speed boosts, and might even get you kicked off the track (I learned the hard way). To deepen the illusion that you’re at an amusement park, there’s also The Rush, a twisting water slide plunging several stories down from the top deck, and The Drop, the first-ever free-fall dry slide at sea.

If a few days have passed and you haven’t gotten into an argument with your friends or significant other yet, don’t worry – it’s time to voluntarily lock yourself in a room and pay for the privilege of escaping. The Viva has two escape rooms onboard, which somehow manage to test the limits of your friendships, as well as make those friendships even stronger. It’s also a great way to meet other passengers. For even more group bonding, check out Galaxy Pavilion, a virtual reality arcade that’s perfect for a rainy sea day. While everyone else is hunkering down in their rooms or vegging out at the buffet, you could be blasting away zombies in a haunted amusement park that feels too real for comfort.

Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line

At night, there’s the traditional nightclub and theater performances, but nothing brings people together (or potentially drives them apart) like karaoke. Put in your request, wait eagerly to hear your name called, then serenade your friends and total strangers by butchering their favorite classics. Axel, a German friend I made onboard, sang a truly memorable rendition of The Backstreet Boys’ “I Want it That Way,” and while his “I Vaaaaant it Zaaaaht Vayyyy” cover won’t be going platinum anytime soon, it’s one of my fondest memories from the trip.

Shore excursions beyond the Norwegian Viva

Before I took a cruise, my perception of shore excursions was pretty narrow. In my head, they were mostly city walking tours and bus trips with a guide’s voice crackling inconsistently over a microphone. On Norwegian cruises, the decision paralysis is real when it comes to shore excursions. I found myself making the impossible choice between taking jungle canopy zipline tours and a cooking class in Antigua, between visiting an organic local farm and taking a luxury catamaran cruise in St. Lucia, and between kayaking through a mangrove lagoon and having a cycleboat party in St. Thomas.

Photo: Eben Diskin

Horseback riding on St. Maarten was definitely the highlight. You’ll ride the winding trails around the coastline, with views of the neighboring islands of St. Barts and Saba, and finish by taking your horse for a ride through the water. Don’t worry if you have no horseback-riding experience, as the horses know their way around the coastline with very little help. My horse, Xena – yes, like the warrior princess – was perfectly well-behaved, until snacktime hit, which seemed to happen every 10 minutes. Her appetite was much like a cruise passenger whose room happens to be right around the corner from the buffet.

Dining on the Norwegian Viva

As in life, the most important thing on the Viva is food. When you first board, you’ll be tasked with one of the most difficult decisions of your voyage (and perhaps of your entire year): where to eat. There are eight specialty restaurants onboard, each of which requires a reservation to ensure you actually get a seat. These restaurants range from Japanese hibachi to classic steakhouse and boujee French bistro, each with its own distinct aesthetic and food that’s worth the extra surcharge. If you don’t want to, you never have to eat at the same venue twice. Spend one night feasting on escargot and lobster thermidor in dignified fashion at Le Bistro, and the next listening to a Japanese chef at Hasuki sing a rice-themed remix of Bon Jovi’s “It’s My Life” while flinging his cleaver in the air.

Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line

Foregoing specialty dining doesn’t mean you’ll be strapping on the feed bag at the buffet every night, either. There are plenty of eateries that don’t require a reservation of extra charge, such as the pub-like The Local Bar & Grill (open late night for those post-nightclub cravings) and Indulge, an around-the-world style food hall with different stations for various international cuisines, with ordering done entirely by tablet. For fans of the traditional, there’s Hudson’s, an upscale dining room (minus the dress code), with floor-to-ceiling windows for epic panoramic views. If it sounds stuffy, don’t worry – I showed up in a swimsuit and sleeveless shirt, sweaty after a day of shore excursions, and the waiter never broke his poker face.

Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line

Maximizing the choose-your-own-adventure cruise experience

Those who value maximum flexibility, who can’t wait to emancipate themselves from anything resembling a plan or schedule, will be relieved to learn that port days can look however you want them to. You have more options than just signing up for a shore excursion or staying on the ship. The spirit of off-the-beaten-path adventure is very much alive on a cruise — you just need to take a little initiative to make it happen.

As a screw-the-itinerary guy myself, I wanted to see what it’s like to cross the Rubicon and divorce myself from the ship entirely. No planned excursions. No guided tours. Just escaping the ship’s protective bubble and allowing, even welcoming, the unexpected. When we docked in Barbados, a few friends and I approached the first taxi driver we saw.

“We’d like to go to Bathsheba Beach and anywhere else you’d recommend. We need to be back by 5 PM.”

Luckily, we had approached the right man. Marson Craigwell, the 73-year-old veteran cab driver, knew the island like his own backyard. For just $150, he agreed to drive us around all day, to Bathsheba Beach and a few other must-see destinations that he absolutely insisted on.

“We’ll be back by 5, right?” my friend Meg asked, worried about missing the ship’s departure. Our fate, after all, was now in the hands of Marson Craigwell, who just laughed.

“You’ll be back by 5, but not a minute earlier!” he said, wagging his finger. “So much to see!”

He drove us first to the Barbados Wildlife Reserve where we saw green monkeys climbing up trees and swinging from vines Donkey Kong-style. Then he brought us to the Flower Forest Botanical Garden, where we had lunch, and lastly to Bathsheba Beach, defined by the massive boulders strewn about the shore. A retired ballroom dancing champion and not-so-retired womanizer, Marson regaled us with his sexcapades and anecdotes of local lore as he drove us around the island.

Photo: Richard Semik/Shutterstock

“You think he’s full of it?” my friend Sean whispered to me as we approached the Flower Forest, suspecting our 73-year-old driver was embellishing his personal conquests.

“Ah, Wanda!” Marson greeted the woman at the Flower Forest gift shop. “Friends, you will not find a more beautiful woman in all of Barbados. Eyes like this, beautiful blue eyes, they make you go blind.”

He pretended to shield his eyes from the sun, and she blushed despite herself.

“No,” I told Sean, “I don’t think he’s full of it.”

Photo: photosounds/Shutterstock

What really struck me, though, wasn’t this 73-year-old-man’s insatiable flirtatiousness – it was that he knew every single person’s name, everywhere we went on the island, from the gate agents at the cruise port to the groundskeepers at the botanic garden. Spending just a few hours with Marson, I felt like I knew them all too.

True to his word, we arrived back at the ship at 4:57 PM – three minutes to spare until we were those people, left behind by the cruise ship on Barbados, forced to bunk with Marson for who knows how long. Meg, who had been frantically checking her watch for the past 30 minutes, threw angry glares at me as we ran up the gangway.

“Wasn’t that fun?” I said, in complete seriousness, once we had safely boarded.

Like the woman in the Flower Forest gift shop, she couldn’t pretend to be annoyed for long. For all of us, it had been one of the most fun days of the trip, and the best part was that that experience wasn’t limited to Barbados. Every island you visit on a cruise is full of Marson Craigwells, each with their own stories, helpful tips, and colorful personalities – you just have to find them.

Whether you’re feasting on a seemingly endless buffet of onboard activities, making an impossible choice between dozens of tempting shore excursions, or choosing your own adventure with the Marson Craigwells of the world, Norwegian gives you the independence you need to turn anyone into a cruise convert.

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This 87-Day Arctic to Antarctica Luxury Cruise Stops in 12 Countries Along the Way

If you can’t choose between an Arctic cruise and an Antartica cruise, there’s an obvious solution to your dilmema: Viking’s From the Arctic to Antarctica voyage.

Luxury cruise line Viking might be better known for its river cruises, especially in Europe, but it’s not a one-trick pony. Viking actually sails on just about every single body of water out there (rivers, oceans, America’s Great Lakes), in just about every destination imaginable, including both ends of the world: the Arctic and Antarctica. But these extreme destinations are never usually combined in one long and extraordinary cruise — until now.

Viking’s From the Arctic to Antarctica cruise is a 87-day journey that includes stops in 12 countries across three continents. The sailing will start in the capital of Greenland, Nuuk, on September 3, 2025, and includes 10 days of exploration in and around the world’s largest island, interrupted by several days in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago where the ship will visit some of the earth’s most remote corners. Wildlife abounds in this part of the world, and lucky passengers, armed with patience and binoculars, will be rewarded with the sights of polar bears, bowhead whales, beluga whales, and a large variety of birds among other fascinating creatures. From the very top of the world, the Viking Octantis will reach the east coast of North America and sail south on the Atlantic Ocean, stopping in over a dozen destinations in Quebec, Ontario, Nova Scotia, Virginia, South Carolina, Florida, and Mexico, before crossing the Caribbean Sea and finally the Panama Canal. After reaching the Pacific Ocean via the world’s most famous canal, the expedition ship will make its way along the coast of South America, stopping in Ecuador, Peru, and Chile, before going all the way around Cape Horn to Ushuaia and through the infamous Drake Passage to reach the Antarctic Peninsula. The cruise ends in Ushuaia where a chartered flight takes travelers to Buenos Aires, Argentina, from where they can fly back home.

Photo: Viking

As if this trip wasn’t packed with enough outstanding stops and hard-to-reach places, while in South America, passengers will be offered the chance to visit some bucket-list destinations, namely the Galápagos Islands to see unique wildlife and flora, and the 15th-century Inca citadel that is Machu Picchu.

The Viking Octantis is only one of two expedition ships owned by the cruise line, the other one being the Viking Polaris. Built in 2022, it is a modern and luxurious vessel designed to access remote destinations. It can accommodate a maximum of 378 guests and 256 crew members for an intimate and pampered experience. All 189 staterooms have balconies so even if you can only afford the cheapest room, you’ll have a grand view. Being an expedition ship, the Viking Octantis is equipped with kayaks, motorboats, and Zodiacs to take passengers on excursions, as well as two yellow submarines, and a science lab which guests can access. Take a virtual tour of the ship to see what awaits you if you book this trip.

The Viking Octantis in Antarctica. Photo: Viking

Of course, none of this comes cheap, starting at $104,995 per person; however there is a way to soften the blow a little. Travelers who make their mind fast and book this cruise before March 31, 2024, can benefit from an exclusive offer worth up to $40,000 per couple, including:

Free business-class airfare and transfers$1,000 shore excursions credit$1,000 onboard creditAll onboard gratuities and service feesFree visa services so you don’t have to handle any paperworkWiFi packageSilver Spirits beverage package (covers any drinks, excluding champagne, up to $18, including premium wines by the glass, cocktails, all house pouring wines, champagnes, beers, liquors, well drinks, mixers/long drinks and soft drinks throughout the day)

Despite the price, the From the Arctic to Antarctica voyage must be a popular one since a September 2026 sailing, this time onboard Viking’s second expedition ship, the Viking Polaris, is already scheduled.

While this sailing looks like an over-the-top cruise, you might be surprised to learn that it is not even Viking’s longest itinerary. The cruise line’s longest journey is the 180-day Viking World Voyage I whose itinerary spans 37 countries and six continents. The Viking World Voyage will set sail on December 19, 2024.

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Where Does the Waste Go on Cruise Ships, and Is It Really Sustainable?

Don’t pretend it hasn’t crossed your mind. When you flush a cruise ship toilet and hear that rapid, louder-than-usual whooshing sound, you wonder as you stare at the empty bowl … “where does it all go?” On land, we have all kinds of easy explanations. We have sewer systems that pump to sewage treatment plants where the waste is processed and treated. But at sea, when you may not be making landfall for days, what happens to it?

You wander out of the bathroom and onto your private balcony, where you sit and stare out at the vast sea. Then it hits you. “What about everything else?” It’s not just human waste that seemingly has nowhere to go in the middle of the ocean, but food waste, plastic waste, and pretty much everything else we mindlessly toss in the trash. There are no dumpsters around the corner, no recycling plants nearby. How do cruise ships dispose of waste in a sustainable manner, so that doesn’t do irreparable harm to the environment?

Nothing that’s human-made in this world is 100 percent sustainable. That said, as public attention to sustainability efforts across all industries has increased, cruise ships have implemented a number of sophisticated treatment and recycling programs for everything from sewage and organic waste to landfill diversion in order to minimize the environmental impact of leisure on the water.

How waste disposal actually works

First of all, before we start talking about getting rid of waste — what happens to it on the ship? It has to be stored somewhere until it’s ready to be discharged, after all.

“Human waste is processed through our advanced wastewater treatment system,” Sarah Dwyer, Sustainability Program Manager for Virgin Voyages, tells Matador Network. “This system processes all blackwater (toilets), greywater (sinks and showers), laundry water, galley greywater, and food waste reject water to comply with MARPOL (International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships) regulations.”

The process is similar on Uniworld River Cruises although waste storage on a smaller river ship will differ somewhat from storage on a huge ocean liner.

“Human waste is collected in a tank (with a bacteria system) and this is emptied regularly, depending on where the ships are docked and whether we have access to the local sewerage system or if we have an external company coming to pump it out,” Julie Higgins, Sustainability Officer for Uniworld River Cruises, tells Matador Network. “For food waste, each ship has a geographical partner that either collects the food waste for animal feed or uses it for biofuel creation. These pickup points are fixed according to each itinerary.”

It’s not exactly surprising that cruise ships have pretty well-developed and intricate methods of getting rid of their waste. On Uniworld, both collection and offloading are more frequent, given the closer proximity of port.

Food waste is “collected by various companies, while human waste is collected in tanks on board each ship and then disposed of either directly into the city or town sewerage system,” Higgins says. “Otherwise, we have companies that come and collect it from our tanks when this is not possible depending on port facilities.”

As for larger ships like those operated by Virgin Voyages, waste must be discharged a certain distance from shore, or stored in a special recycling center for offloading.

“For our advanced wastewater treatment process, effluent (liquid waste or sewage) is held on board and then discharged at distances greater than three nautical miles from shore,” Dwyer says. “Food waste is either pulverized and discharged (12 nautical miles from shore and at a speed greater than six knots), or it’s stored in our waste recycling center to be offloaded in port.”

Is waste disposal actually sustainable?

The big complaint facing cruise lines is the issue of sustainability. From carbon emissions to how waste impacts the surrounding ecosystem, there are very real concerns about the impact cruises have on the ocean. That’s why environmental regulations are tighter than ever, and cruise lines have implemented strict treatment methods to limit any harm done by waste disposal.

“Our advanced wastewater treatment system is calibrated to meet stringent water quality standards under MARPOL and the US Clean Water Act,” Dwyer says. “Our crew ensures that our vessels are in compliance with the the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System and Vessel General Permit, which are monitored by the Environmental Protection Agency.”

What does this actually mean? Well, everything from wastewater treatment methods to offloading strategies that divert waste from landfills.

“Our wastewater is treated by the bacteria within our tanks on board, which forms something we call ‘sludge,’” Higgins says. “We then dispose of this ‘sludge’ responsibly … over the years we have formed a reliable network that allows us to dispose in a responsible manner and not pollute the areas we sail through.”

The most visible part of Virgin Voyages’ sustainability program is its reduction of single-use plastics on board, as well as incorporating more sustainable materials for its passengers. From banning plastic utensils to using reusable food containers in restaurants, the goal is to limit how much non-recyclable waste is even produced in the first place.

“We collect and sort recyclable waste on board, which is then offloaded in our primary ports such as Miami,” Dwyer says. “We also have a recycling takeback program from our beach club operation in Bimini (Bahamas) to limit recyclable materials that would otherwise be sent to the landfill. We also vet the waste providers that we partner with on-shore to ensure waste is handled appropriately.”

In an industry that’s inherently not known for sustainability, it’s clear that cruise lines do all they can to reduce their environmental impact. But is it enough?

The impact of waste disposal on the ocean

While many cruise lines take sustainability seriously and ensure their waste management systems are up to code, that’s not always the case, resulting in harmful pollutants entering the ocean.

“Several cruise ships still use scrubber technology, which discharges a toxic cocktail of petroleum byproducts from ships directly into the ocean with little to no treatment,” Marcie Keever, Oceans Program Director at Friends of the Earth, tells Matador Network. “The ICCT (International Council on Clean Transportation) estimates that in one year, ships worldwide will emit at least 10 gigatons of scrubber wastewater, approximately 15 percent of which comes from the cruise industry.”

She also believes more oversight is needed to ensure the cruise industry’s sustainability standards are as strict as they should be. And indeed, however strict those regulations might be, without proper oversight, the rules themselves (if frequently broken) are irrelevant.

“The cruise industry remains a major contributor to air and ocean pollution, repeatedly failing health compliance and environmental tests,” she claims. “At the federal level, Homeland Security and the EPA provide little regulation enforcement and no oversight on wastewater discharge or public health, even though cruise ships continue to be a major spreader of harmful pathogens like COVID-19.”

Indeed, Carnival was fined in 2019 for dumping waste into the ocean. Apart from ocean water, Keever notes cruise ports themselves are also a serious victim of cruise ship waste.

“One community in Alaska fought hard against the industry after being filled with trash and sewage from ships,” she says. “In addition, carbon emissions from ships harm the places where they dock. Friends of the Earth is working to help ports electrify to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality for surrounding communities.”

Just as every cruise line has its own waste processing and disposal system, each cruise line also adheres differently to sustainability standards. Clearly, most cruise lines take plenty of steps to make sure they’re handling and disposing of waste as sustainably as possible, though there will always be improvements to be made and higher standards to be reached. It’s also important to continue holding cruise lines accountable for their waste disposal processes.

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Celebrate Cherry Blossom Season in Vancouver With Some of the Best Blossoms Outside Japan

When you think of cherry blossom season, your mind probably jumps to the gardens of Tokyo. Japan is famous for its cherry blossoms, which have become an icon of the country itself. But for many cherry blossom enthusiasts, actually visiting Japan is out of the question — both logistically and financially. Luckily, you don’t actually have to travel across the world to see some truly spectacular cherry blossom displays.

Vancouver, in British Columbia, Canada, is one of the best places in North America to see cherry blossoms. The season begins around early March and lasts until mid-April each year, and blossoms can be seen all around the city — from the botanical garden on the University of British Columbia campus to the groves of Akebono in Stanley Park and the trees lining the road in the Arbutus neighborhood.

But how did Japan’s iconic blooms make their way nearly 5,000 miles to Vancouver?

Vancouver’s cherry blossom history

Vancouver’s cherry blossom story begins in the early 1930s when the mayors of Kobe and Yokohama in Japan presented the Park Board of Vancouver with 500 Japanese cherry trees. The trees were gifted to be planted at the Japanese cenotaph in Stanley Park, which honors Japanese Canadians who served in World War I.

By the mid-1950s, thousands of trees on city streets were being removed due to problems caused by their roots and canopies. The smaller and less invasive cherry trees were planted in their place. In 1958, 300 more cherry trees were donated by the Japanese consul to promote good will and friendship between the two nations. They were planted along Cambie Boulevard, between 49th and 33rd Avenues, in Queen Elizabeth Park, and around the Japanese Monument in Stanley Park. Now, cherry trees make up a significant portion of the city’s tree species, with more planted each year thanks to their local popularity.

It’s no surprise that these flowers that represent Japan have been lovingly embraced by Vancouver — so much so that there’s an annual Cherry Blossom Festival to celebrate the blooming season.

The Cherry Blossom Festival

Vancouver’s signature springtime event, the Cherry Blossom Festival is a celebration of the city’s adopted flower. Taking place this year from March 29 to April 25, the monthlong festival consists of a diverse range of blossom-related activities, giving both locals and visitors an appreciation for the special flower.

Photo: Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival

“The festival inspires participants to express their response to these extraordinary trees in music, poetry, photography, art design, craft, and cuisine,” Rofolfo Parra, Chief Concierge at the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver, tells Matador Network.

The Big Picnic is one of the festival’s premier events. Attendees gather and relax underneath cherry trees in the Yaletown neighborhood while listening to local artists on the Cherry Jam Stage. It encourages friends and families to meet up for a picnic to appreciate the cherry blossoms, celebrate spring, and enjoy entertainment, food, and interactive activities.

For Japanese cultural enthusiasts, make sure to check out the Sakura Days Japan Fair at the VanDusen Botanical Garden — a celebration of all things Japan. Taking place outdoors with selected vendors, a tea ceremony, taiko drumming, theater performances, and sake tasting, the fair invites guests to immerse themselves in Japanese food, art, and music.

Photo: Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival

One of the festival’s most exciting events is Blossoms After Dark, a magical walk taking place between 6 and 10 PM. Experience the cherry blossoms lit up at night with project mapping,
lighting, and lanterns. You can also expect to encounter performers, music, and art installations around every corner.

“Each year more events are added to the program,” Parra says. “The festival is also building new international friendships and cross-cultural exchanges through the international Haiku Invitational, which annually receives poems from 43 countries.”

Where to see Vancouver cherry blossoms around the city

You don’t necessarily need to attend festival events to enjoy Vancouver’s cherry blossoms. You can take your own self-guided tour of the city’s blossoms simply by wandering the streets.

“We have a blossoms map that highlights all of the cherry trees across the city with information
about when and where the blossoms are,” Andrea Arnot, Executive Director of the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival tells Matador Network. “We encourage residents and tourists alike to explore the cherry blossoms throughout the city and create their own hanami (flower-viewing) experience with family or friends.”

Photo: Shawn.ccf/Shutterstock

Indeed, wandering around Vancouver isn’t just the best way to see the cherry blossoms — it’s the best way to get acquainted with the city itself. Some of the city’s most beautiful blossoms are located in parks and neighborhoods visitors are probably interested in anyway.

“Some of the most spectacular cherry tree groves are located downtown with skyscrapers, oceanfront, or park settings as the backdrop,” Arnot says.

One of the best places to see cherry blossoms is on the beautiful campus of the University of British Columbia whose botanical garden is home to a striking arrangement of Japanese plants. You can also find a double row of Shirotae and a grove of Shiro-fugen (different varieties of flowering Japanese cherry trees) along the path to the Japanese monument in Stanley Park, as well as a grove of Akebono in the Rose Garden. If you’d rather just go for a quiet neighborhood stroll, check out the Pandora blossoms on West 6th Avenue, the Shirotae blossoms on 1st Avenue, and the Birch Bark Cherry Trees in the Arbutus neighborhood on King Edward Avenue.

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Plan a backcountry ski trip

Grab a seat at the bar in a locals’ hangout in any ski town the world over and you’ll encounter long, eloquent, and often exaggerated tales of life-changing backcountry trips. The storyteller, perhaps a rugged local with chunks of icicle still clinging to the lower tentacles of his disheveled beard, seems so cunning, so brave, and accomplished, that it’s near impossible not to desire a story of conquest to bring home to your local pub. First, you need the right splitboarding gear in order to get out in the backcountry safely and have a good time while you’re at it.

Building your outdoor gear setup? Check out Matador’s guides to everything you need to thrive outside:The perfect backpack for every type of traveler, from hostelers to hikers10 must-haves for the traveling yogiWhat to pack for an epic trekking adventure in Latin AmericaAll the fall camping gear you need to have an epic tripAll the outdoor gear you need to keep moving on the trail this spring

We hope you love the splitboarding gear 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.

Backcountry touring isn’t all about steep lines and tall tales, though. It’s about thorough trip planning and constant progression. It’s about having proper gear, being able to read an avalanche forecast, and not being too macho to pull the plug and head back to the trailhead when conditions look sketchy.

The more experience I gain, the more I appreciate the whole process. Routing a backcountry tour is actually fun when everyone is on the same page. Planning for the trip is the perfect opportunity to get everyone together the night before, sip a hot toddy or two, and get organized.

Here we’ll take a look at the necessary gear and planning techniques for backcountry touring.

How to plan a splitboarding trip:Splitboarding gearHow to prepare for a splitboarding tripSplitboarding gear in the fieldSplitboarding gear and trip preparationSplitboarding gear

Photo: lilking/Shutterstock

Touring on a snowboard requires a lot of specific gear to help you both perform well and stay safe in the high country. Here’s all the splitboarding gear you need for a successful day in the backcountry.

Splitboard or skis, of course. I ride the Arbor Landmark Camber because I’ve long been a fan of the brand’s eco-first mantra and top-tier snowboards. The board is designed to both float well in backcountry powder and carve tight turns. I use a hardboot setup on it (more on this below) which means that when ascending, all I’m lifting is this ultra-light splitboard and a pair of Spark R&D Tech Toes (similar to what skiers use to climb) rather than clunky bindings and more weight. The board features an EcoPlastic top sheet and due to its unique camber design, more touch points to the snow than any other splitboard I’ve ridden. This means sharp-cut turns and quick maneuvers are easier than ever. The edges are made of recycled steel, it’s lined with eco-friendly resin and wax, and the board is built in a facility powered by 100 percent renewable energy. I’ve never found a more values-aligned snowboard, and it performs just as epically.Loose-heel bindings. For the softboot splitboarders, I recommend the Spark R&D Surge splitboard bindings. They are as lightweight as splitboard bindings can be and transition very well with a simple snap-lock piece instead of the traditional pin. The sidewall grants leeway for wide turns without sacrificing the snugness you need during the ascent. It’s easy to transition from ascending to descending in just a couple minutes by unclipping the front latch and pulling the binding backward off the board, and reversing the process once you’ve connected or disconnected your splitboard. Hardbooters should go with the Spark R&D Dyno DH Splitboard Bindings, an ultra-lightweight option that clips to your boots without any straps, meaning you will most certainly be the first one done during transitions.Skins. I use the basic Karakorum Ranger skins. You’ll need to cut the skins to fit your splitboard, and this video from the brand shows you exactly how to do so.Winter-specific backpack. The Osprey Soelden 32 gives you enough space for a water bladder, a beacon/shovel/probe, lunch, a first aid kit, and binding tools. If heading out for a full day, packs smaller than 25L can be too small, as it’s important to remember that you must be able to fit your skins in the pack when you transition to snowboard mode before dropping in.Trekking poles or ski poles, even for the snowboarders! Preferably collapsible trekking poles that fit into your pack, such as the Black Diamond Distance Z trekking poles. Keep the baskets on the bottom of the poles, as this helps them stay afloat when stuck into soft powder.Beacon, shovel, and probe. Absolutely never enter the backcountry without this lifesaving gear, and double-check to make sure everyone in your group has this gear and knows how to use it. If not, they’re staying at the trailhead. No exceptions.At $349, the Backcountry Access Tracker 3 beacon gives you a dependable triple-antenna beacon without having to drop $500.The Backcountry Access Dozer 1T shovel collapses nicely to fit into your pack. The primary reason I recommend this over the more heavy-duty Dozer 2T is because of the T-shaped handle on the former as opposed to the D-shaped handle on the latter. A T-shaped handle is easier to grasp from the different angles you will need to shovel from during an avalanche emergency.The Black Diamond Quick Draw 270mm probe is long enough to probe into most piles of snow debris and is easy to toss into its put-together form from its collapsed and stored state.Splitboard-friendly boots. Many dedicated splitboarders opt for hard boots that more closely resemble ski boots, however, to get accustomed to splitboarding I recommend the Burton Tourist boots. They’re pricey – $549 — but you can also wear them with your resort board, so there’s no need to buy a second pair of boots.If you opt for a hard-boot setup, like I do, go with the K2 Mindbender BOA alpine touring boots. These boots are specifically designed with a BOA system that can loosen for the uphill and tighten for the downhill. If you’re balking at the idea of wearing hard boots to snowboard, know this — a pound in the bag is worth three pounds underfoot, and extra weight what you’re saving by not having bindings on your board during the uphill. Once you get used to making turns in the hard boots, you’ll be glad you made the switch.Goggles and sunglasses (because you’re going up and down). Anon has you covered with the best options for both. The M4S snapback google is new for this season and brings easy-to-change magnetic lenses to a mid-tier price point. The goggles come with lenses to swap in to optimize your day no matter the visibility, with both women’s and men’s options available.Helmet. The brand new Anon Oslo WaveCel helmet comes out for this coming season and is available for $219.95. Featuring a magnetic buckle that removes the frustration of struggling to fasten your helmet in the cold, along with Anon’s signature WaveCel shock absorption technology, there is no better helmet to transition into at the top of the mountain. I tested one last year and was hooked immediately.Ski gear — helmet, waterproof gloves, outer layer (shell, ski pants), inner layer (preferably no cotton).AIARE field book. The American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) sells trip planning guidebooks that walk users through the process of planning their tour. The books also come with info on assessing snowpack and other risks of backcountry travel.Unlderlayers. This season I’ve become a fan of Corbeaux, an Aspen-based clothing brand that crafts sustainably-made outdoor clothing including the Centennial Boot Top bottom and Respire long-sleeve top. Each is warm, comfortable, and moves with my body as I climb the mountain, rather than bunching up or itching as some underlayers I’ve worn in the past do.2. How to prepare for a splitboarding trip

A successful backcountry tour requires much more planning than a typical day at the ski hill. It’s important to know the terrain and any risks you may encounter. Avalanches can be deadly — if the group plans to hit terrain steeper than 30 degrees, be sure to check the avalanche forecast and avoid hazardous areas.

The more experienced you are in trip planning, the easier it becomes to avoid avalanche terrain altogether. Check the snow and avalanche forecast beginning a few days before you plan to head out via one of the following sites (or Google avalanche conditions in your area):

Colorado Avalanche Information CenterUtah Avalanche CenterSierra Avalanche CenterNorthwest Avalanche CenterFind others at Avalanache.org

Before leaving the house, familiarize yourself with the terrain in your zone of choice. Topographic maps and Google are great places to start. Identify where the group plans to head, and look at the  avalanche and weather forecasts to figure out the best time to leave, when you need to be off the summit, and any weather hazards that could come into play.

Have a plan A and plan B route solidified before heading out. Depending on the weather and snow conditions, it may or may not be safe to access certain areas of the mountain (conditions vary by aspect, recent snowfall, elevation, and other factors). Also, be malleable! You may encounter unfriendly weather or terrain that didn’t appear in the forecast or maps.

Study the weather in the area. Look for patterns in snowfall, wind, and avalanche hazards.Plan your point of attack. Know where to park, where to enter the backcountry, and the route you plan to take to your desired drop-in point. Also, have regrouping points planned along the way to stop and assess conditions.Have a backup route and an emergency exit noted. Often, this exit will be the same way you came up — is it safe for traversing down as well?Know the ability and backcountry knowledge of each person in the group. How much experience does each have? Are they able to operate their beacon, shovel, and probe in case of an emergency? The skill level of the least experienced member will determine where the group can go.Avalanche.org — Connects visitors to all US-based avalanche reports.AIARE — The American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education. I cannot recommend signing up for the AIARE Level 1 course highly enough.

 

Splitboarding gear in the field

Photo: Lilkin/Shutterstock

Upon arrival at the trailhead, allow ample prep time. You’re the one reading this guide — therefore you’re in the perfect place to take charge. Start by making sure everyone has their beacon on with plenty of battery life (at least 80%) for the trip. Each person should have food, water, and an extra top layer in case it gets cold or windy.

The next step is to double-check that everyone is on board with the trip plan. Now is the time to voice concerns and offer ideas or that bit of insider knowledge picked up from late-night forum reading.

Do a beacon check to make sure each person’s beacon is on and functioning properly.

Then it’s time to strap those skins on and hit the trail!

Stuff to keep in mind during the tour:

If an individual in the group is not comfortable with a decision in the field, that decision becomes the unanimous voice. Make decisions as a group. Each person has equal say. When discussing whether to proceed further, turn back, or move to plan B at the regrouping point, one person’s “no” vote is the entire group’s “no” vote. There is no leaving someone behind or heading back to the car alone.

When dropping in, proceed one at a time. The other members of the group should be watching and ready to react in case of an avalanche or accident.

6. Splitboarding gear and trip preparation: bringing it all together

Adequate backcountry prep work includes stocking cold beers for the parking lot celebration of the successful trip. This is the time to reflect. I like to take notes, even if only mental, about conditions and any surprise encountered. As everyone shares laughs and stories of rollers dropped and powder slashed, pick out information that could prove useful for next time.

Did anyone hear a “whumph” along the skinning route? Any other signs of an unstable snowpack that should be noted for future trips this time of year? Who took the best line down and were there any points of avalanche concern along the way?

Backcountry touring is a cyclical experience. Knowledge gained from one trip can help plan the next one. I encourage new backcountry travelers to head out with more experienced groups first. Be open and honest about your experience and comfort level — backcountry skiing and snowboarding works best when everyone has a voice. With proper planning and communication, those pub-worthy stories will come — and you’ll be around to tell them.

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This Private Helicopter Tour Is the Most Luxurious Way to Enjoy Japan’s Cherry Blossom Season

Mount Yoshino in the Nara Prefecture is one of Japan’s most popular spots for cherry blossom (sakura) viewing. There’s a wide range of varieties and approximately 30,000 cherry trees and according to Japan Travel, they were planted over 1300 years ago. In spring, the area gets extremely busy with people traveling to see the light pink to white flowers with a backdrop of the region’s stunning natural landscape peppered with historic temples, hillside towns, and must-visit cities. This other-worldly natural phenomenon is so famous that people plan bucket-list vacations to Japan during the season in order to see the trees in full glory. But if you don’t like the idea of walking through crowds of people on cramped paths, you might want to consider a more luxurious way to enjoy the sakura and book a helicopter flight with AIROS Skyview. Matador Network reached out to AIROS Skyview to chat about the various routes they offer and how you can tailor-make your own cherry blossom voyage to take in the collage of colors from the sky.

When do Yoshino cherry trees blossom?

The best time to see the cherry blossoms at Mount Yoshino is typically early to mid-April, with the exact timing depending on the weather conditions each year. The mountain slope is divided into four planted areas. Shimo Senbon (the base of the mountain), Naka Senbon (the middle), Kami Senbon (the upper section), and Oku Senbon (the inner trees and the summit). Due to the elevation, the lower section blooms first. If you want to experience the full bloom, leave it later in the month or even May. Check regional weather, as annual temperature and rainfall fluctuate and this will affect the timing of the bloom.

AIROS Skyview helicoper experiences

Photo: AirX Co., Ltd.

The first thing to note is that AIROS Skyview can be flexible and design a trip with your needs in mind. Everything from private car transfers to the airport, fresh bouquets of flowers, and help planning celebrations such as birthdays or proposals can be added onto the basic package. Experiencing the bloom from above, AIROS Skyview says, will give you a much better understanding of how the trees are not only an important part of the landscape but also integral to Japanese culture.

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The most popular routes listed below are some of the pilots favorites and show-case the sakura in full glory.

AIROS Skyview flight over Osaka and Mount Yoshino

Photo: Stephane Bidouze/Shutterstock

This experience departs from Yao Airport in Japan’s third-largest city, Osaka. Known for its amazing street food, Osaka is a great base for exploring Japan’s Kansai region. This 50-minute flight takes up to three passengers over Mount Yoshino, the city, and Mount Ikoma (home to the Buddhist temple, Hozanji Temple).

Flight time: 50 minutesCost: $1,130AIROS Skyview flight over Nara and Mount Yoshino

Photo: ESB Professional/Shutterstock

If you’d prefer a more in-depth tour, opt for the 80-minute flight. This will take you over historical sights such as Hase-ji Temple, Heijo-kyo, Mimuro-san, Asago-Sonji-ji Temple, and Koriyama Castle Ruins surrounded by cherry trees. The more luxurious route allows you to enjoy the best blooms in the region of Nara and Yoshino. It’s worth noting that you can open the windows during the flight. Which must be a pretty magical experience as you fly over tree tops of blossom.

Flight time: 80 minutesCost: $1,860

Photo: AirX Co., Ltd.

AIROS Skyview also run flight experiences over Kyoto and Tokyo.

Trips are weather dependent. Flights will depart if the pilot approves conditions are sustainable. Refunds and rescheduling are available if you are not able to fly on your chosen date.

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