Matador Network's Blog, page 200

The Secret to Finding the Best Cleaning Company for Your Airbnb

A spotless Airbnb is one step to cultivating rave reviews on your rental listing. Seeing as cleanliness is one of the guest feedback categories, it pays to hire a professional cleaning company for your Airbnb. Outsourcing cleaning saves valuable time and boosts the local economy.

Cleaning fees are usually absorbed by the guest while any balance may be tax deductible. Credible hosts always hire an Airbnb cleaning service to perform a heavy-duty turnover at every check-out – right from the offset of becoming an Airbnb host. It’s worth considering mid-stay cleans to maintain the short-term rental.

Here’s how to find the best cleaning company for your Airbnb is something to think about.

We hope you have success finding a great Airbnb cleaning company. Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commissions from the links on this page.

Become an Airbnb host today

Airbnb cleaning business versus independent cleaner

You can hire a self-employed cleaner or enlist an agency. The former may be suitable if you are renting one Airbnb property on an ad hoc basis although you’ll need a backup for when they’re not available. Check the situation if the cleaner falls ill or needs to cancel a job: do they have a subcontractor or fellow independent professional to put you in touch with?

An agency is a wiser call with multiple properties. As the accommodation marketplace continues to grow, more cleaning businesses are adding an Airbnb turnover service to their portfolio. This type of Airbnb cleaning service should be licensed and insured. Ask about the options for having the same cleaner or cleaning team assigned to your listing(s).

Hire a local Airbnb cleaning service

Whether you enlist an independent cleaner or an Airbnb cleaning company, double-check their location. A cleaner based on the opposite side of town might be cheaper or have a top-notch reputation but that’s no use in a traffic jam.

Start with Airbnb’s official host forum and local Facebook groups for recommendations. Check notice boards in convenience stores, supermarkets, and community centers.

Prioritize an experienced Airbnb cleaning company

Rental properties require a deep and thorough cleaning and a speedy turnover. The best cleaning company for your Airbnb will have specific experience cleaning vacation homes and understand the nuances. A cleaning service targeting domestic or commercial properties might not have the right skill set for a short-term rental place. Seek relevant testimonials on the company website and make further inquiries via email or interview.

Evaluate the communication

Communication is a crucial component of any hospitality business. In fact, how you communicate with guests is another way to secure positive reviews for your Airbnb. As part of the shortlisting process, consider how responsive the Airbnb cleaning company is to your messages and questions. Clarify the booking and invoicing procedure and discuss how the team communicates breakages or general wear and tear. The Airbnb cleaning fee covers a deep clean but damage may be subject to further charges and your cleaner is responsible for keeping a weather eye.

Photo: Anna Puzatykh /Shutterstock

Know the score with supplies

Some Airbnb cleaning businesses supply products whereas others expect the client to provide these. Confirm this as part of the search process as it impacts your budget. Even if bringing supplies the cleaner will expect such equipment as a vacuum, mop, and broom in the home. You may want to preview the Airbnb cleaning checklist for the types of cleaning products used to see if they align with your ethos. Are they biodegradable? Hypoallergenic? Pet-safe?

Co-devise an Airbnb cleaning checklist

As no two Airbnbs are identical, these unique vacation rentals require a tailored approach to cleaning. An established Airbnb cleaning company should have a basic task list to adapt as per your listing. A typical Airbnb cleaning checklist will include the following duties as part of a turnover service and scheduled – weekly, monthly, annual – upkeep.

Kitchen

Clean and sanitize all appliances – oven, microwave, coffee maker, etcScrub and disinfect all surfaces, tiles, and sinksWash, dry, and put away dishesCheck that shelved crockery and utensils are cleanEmpty the fridge and cupboard of food wasteRegular descaling of surfaces, tiles, and the kettleRoutine deep cleaning of inside the fridge and freezer

Bathroom

Clean, descale, and sanitize all bathroom fittings, fixtures, and surfacesWipe the shower curtain/polish the shower screenScrub and polish steel fixturesPolish mirrorsMop floorsRoutinely wash/replace the shower curtainRegular dusting and cleaning of vents and extractor fansWash towels and floor mats – replace as required

Bedroom and lounge

Dust, polish, and sanitize all furniture, cupboards, fixtures, and closetsPolish mirrorsVacuum and/or mop all floorsVacuum underneath fixtures and down the side of the sofaDust photo framesWash and change all bed linensPlump cushionsSanitize television remotes and any smart devicesWater plants if applicable

Miscellaneous

Clean, sanitize, and polish door knockers and handlesEmpty, clean, and sanitize all binsWash and wipe window sillsSweep corners, door frames, and skirting boards for cobwebs and dustCheck and tend to stained carpets and linensClean and sanitize infant/toddler/pet apparelSanitize any games, books, or gym equipmentGeneral tidyingSweep for forgotten items/lost propertyReplenish cleaning essentials for guests as per your Airbnb host stocklist in conjunction with yourself or the co-hostLook for transparent pricing

Airbnb cleaning services vary based on the job. The property type plays a role in determining whether an hourly or a fixed price model is the right fit. A company should provide an estimate and outline any additional charges you might be invoiced for. The pricing strategy should be transparent and the fee should be appropriate to advertise on the listing. There’s no average cleaning fee for an Airbnb – these homes come in all shapes and sizes. The best way to get a steer is by researching similar residences in your area.

Do your research

Much like you wouldn’t book the first Airbnb you clicked on, make time to research different cleaning companies. Collate testimonials, compare rate cards, and conduct interviews via email, telephone, or in person. Ultimately the best cleaning company for your Airbnb will be reliable, trustworthy, efficient, and reasonably priced. Once they’ve been through a trial period and familiarized themselves with your property, it should be smooth sailing.

Become an Airbnb host today

More like thisEpic StaysHow a Couple Turned Two 19th Century Irish Pubs Into Ireland's Most Unique Airbnbs

Elanan Will Be a Futuristic Wellness Oasis in the Heart of the Saudi Desert

When you think of wellness retreats, your mind might jump to an all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean, or a spa town in Europe. Saudi Arabia isn’t exactly the poster child for wellness and relaxation, but that might be about to change thanks to Elanan, the newest addition to NEOM in northwest Saudi Arabia. NEOM is a mostly desert region being redeveloped as a futuristic tourism hub. The region will be defined by hyperconnected, sustainable cities and ports, most notably The Line, a planned car-free 105-mile long city designed to cut across the desert in a straight line, and be a model for utopian living. It’s all part of Vision 2030, the Saudi government’s sweeping plan to make Saudi Arabia more appealing to foreign visitors. The wellness retreat of Elanan is the latest exciting addition to this futuristic project.

Located on the Gulf of Aqaba coastline, where the mountains meet the sea, Elanan is slated to be an exclusive retreat specializing in luxury and wellbeing experiences. The retreat will have a contemporary aesthetic, while also blending seamlessly with the surrounding nature. A lush oasis in the desert, the purpose of Elanan is to promote relaxation and reflection, with several options for guests to rest and recharge. Once it’s actually open to the public, guests can look forward to large plazas, specialty private dining, relaxing in the sun garden, sweeping observation tower views, and of course, a range of rejuvenating wellness experiences.

What else is coming to NEOM

Keeping up with NEOM’s new city and project announcements is sometimes as difficult as keeping up with all the new movie releases you want to see. But there’s more to NEOM than just this new wellness retreat and The Line. Announced in late 2023, Leyja is another NEOM project between the mountains and the coast of the Red Sea, featuring three futuristic hotels built into the mountains themselves. Trojena is another standout addition to the region – a cutting-edge ski resort in the heart of the desert, projected to open in 2026.

More like thisSustainabilityNEOM Is on Track to Be the World’s First “Sustainable” City. Here’s What We Know

This Arcade-Themed Airbnb Comes With Access to Some of the Most Cherished Games of the ’80s

Who doesn’t love a good blast to the past? Whether it’s the ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, 90s, or even the aughts, nostalgia has a way of getting people excited. To immerse completely in the ’80s, you need to check out this ’80s themed Airbnb in North Carolina. Guests will feel like they’ve stepped into a time machine straight to a classic, decade-appropriate arcade.

We hope you love the spaces and stays 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. Prices are accurate as of publish date.

Photo: AirbnbPhoto: Photo: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

Guests can experience all things the ’80s in this Airbnb. Located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, this immersive 80s-themed Airbnb features a decked out ’80s-themed bedroom equipped with two twin beds and two retro couches where guests can get comfortable and listen to some music on the 1986 Magnavox stereo, watch throwbacks on VHS and DVD, or go crazy and play a game on every video game console that was made in the era.

Guests will also have their private entrance to the bedroom, a private half bathroom with a shower, and a kitchenette with a mini fridge. The arcade is perhaps the biggest draw, and anyone staying at the Airbnb can tour the arcade room and choose a three-hour block to play the games in the arcade. This Airbnb is home to the largest private collection of working golden-age arcade games on the East Coast, so there won’t be a problem finding a game that’s for you.

The home is near Wake Forest University and downtown, so guests can indulge in the various restaurants, shops, and bars nearby before returning to the nest of the ’80s.

Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $235 per night

Book NowMore like thisEpic StaysThe Best Airbnbs in Asheville, From an Urban Treehouse to a Coffee Shop Loft

This Free Hack Helps Solo Travelers Better Navigate Almost Every City Worldwide

When I’m exploring a new destination anywhere in the world, my first mission is to try to get acquainted with the local culture and become familiar with my surroundings.

One of my favorite ways to do this is by signing up for free walking tours in cities, also known as “pay what you can” tours. Plenty of organizations host free walking tours worldwide with local guides who can offer insight into their cities in exchange for tips (and appreciation) in a safe and social environment. In many cases, the guides are in training programs for tourism certifications, or the free walking tours may be funded by tourism boards trying to boost visitors to their destinations.

On the tours I’ve taken, from Athens, Greece, to Melbourne, Australia, I’ve met interesting people from across the world and explored parts of cities I may never be able to find on my own. And thanks to these walking tours, I’ve been introduced to great communities of like-minded adventurers.

Here’s what to know before embarking on one of the ultimate travel hacks perfect for outgoing (or not) travelers: free walking tours of cities and towns around the world.

How to stay safe

To stay safe, vet your tour source. If you’re staying at a hostel or backpacker hotel, there are often message boards in common areas advertising legitimate, ongoing tours offered by trusted sources. Sometimes, hostels even offer them for free to guests as an added perk of staying there.

If you’re searching online, ensure the company is rated and reviewed by authentic travelers on a trustworthy website. Examples of a few tour sites I’ve used Freetour.com, GuruWalk, and Generation Tours. Official tourism board websites for destinations often also list tours. For example, you can find “Paris Greeters” free walking tours in Paris on the official “I love Paris,” website, and there are tons of free walking tours in NYC.

As always, steer clear if your gut tells you something is off. Never meet someone at an isolated location or at an awkward time. Free walking tours are common enough around the world that finding them should be pretty easy.

General etiquette for free walking tours

Tourists on a Free Walking Tour in Lisbon Portugal run by the company Lisbon Chill-Out Free Tour. Photo: Glen Berlin/Shutterstock

Even in countries that tend not to have a tipping culture, from my experience, guides on most free walking tours are volunteers, meaning they aren’t being paid for their time and the only compensation they’ll get is from tips. So if you’re able, tip accordingly. Cash is king when it comes to tipping abroad.

Avoid leaving the tour early or without warning, especially if it’s a small group. The guide will likely be concerned about losing people, and you don’t want to disrupt the rest of the group’s experience just because you had a set lunch reservation time or weren’t interested in doing the whole tour. It’s also respectful to the guide to stay the whole time (and not talk when he or she is talking).

Tips for free walking tours around the world

Check the weather before you go, and be prepared to spend several hours outside. Photo: Felipe Mahecha/Shutterstock

Go to your tour prepared for an adventure. Tours can range between 90 minutes to a few hours, depending on how well the group gets along and how fast you move. Some tours are longer than others, and sometimes it depends on how much the group is chatting and what they’re interested in. It also depends on what the tour guide has planned for that day, and the terrain you’re walking through as some cities are known to be more hilly than others (hello, San Francisco). Comfortable shoes make for a more enjoyable trek. I’ve walked up to five miles, and been on tours that were just over three hours long.

If you get sunburned easily, bring sunscreen, a couple of layers in case it gets chilly, and an umbrella, if you’re in a destination known for its wet climate, like London, Seattle, or just about anywhere in Norway.

Carrying water and snacks is also a good idea. Some guides plan for a break halfway through for tour-goers to use the bathroom or grab a quick bite to eat, but it’s easier to bring something with you, leaving that break for one-on-one chatting with your (presumably) knowledgeable tour guide.

Why I love free walking tours

Photo: EvaL Miko/Shutterstock

As you can probably tell, I recommend these tours to everyone, whether you’re a young backpacker or a DINK couple jetting around the world. Here’s why.

They’re my favorite way to meet like-minded travelers

There’s a strong chance if you’re doing a free walking tour by yourself (or traveling by yourself, for that matter), you’re an outgoing person. You’re probably interested in meeting new people and having authentic, non-manufactured experiences in new destinations.

From my experience, most people who go on these tours are either solo traveling or traveling in pairs, which can be an excellent opportunity to meet one or two like-minded friends for the remainder of your time in the city. Sometimes, the guides are also very social, and are up for hanging out after the tour, or can at least give you the scoop on where solo travelers tend to congregate.

Guides are your best source for info about a city

Guides are locals who know way more than any guidebook — and are the type of people who enjoy chatting with strangers, like you. Photo: Preisler/Shutterstock

The various free walking tours I’ve taken have all had another benefit: they allow you to pick a local expert’s brain for recommendations on restaurants, bars, and attractions, including harder-to-find information, like when museums offer free entry or bars host live music.

There’s a good chance the tour guide’s suggestions for the best (or cheapest, or coolest) local watering holes might not be in the travel guides, and can be great places to meet locals or expats. You may even find yourself hanging out at the last stop with your fellow tour participants or the guides themselves.

Being on a tour with a local allows you to see the city through the lens of someone who knows the city well, and knows what kinds of people will like various bars, restaurants, or attractions. But they’re also people who welcome tourists and are happy to share their town with visitors, so they’re going to give you honest recommendations, instead of sending you to the touristy places that give them kick-backs when you mention their names.

For example, while on a tour in Melbourne, my guide was a local university student who shared suggestions on everywhere to grab a drink, from trendy underground speakeasies to the most affordable dive bars and places well-known for being safe LGBTQ+ and BIPOC hangouts. I actually went back to one of her recommendations that night with someone from my tour – something that happens frequently when I travel.

You might get extra discounts

Of course, you don’t want a guide who is going to send you to the lunchtime pizza place in Rome that only has menus in English. But if you listen to their recommendations, you may get the locals discount.

In Athens, Greece, our guide was friends with the man who owned one of his local favorite restaurants. When we walked in, you could tell they were buddies, rather than it being some business exchange where every guide in town is sending tourists there. He ended our tour at the restaurant, and the owner gave everyone on the tour a discount. That made us stay longer, eat and drink more, and build deeper connections with each other.

Even if your guide doesn’t know business owners by name, they probably at least know what places in the city have happy hours, discounts, or other good deals for budget travelers.

They make starting conversations feel more natural

Asking someone to take your photo can start a conversation. Photo: Ekaterina Pokrovsky/Shutterstock

There’s usually a fair amount of free time to chat while walking from landmark to landmark on these free walking tours. It can be intimidating to put yourself out there, but asking your tour-mate questions – “What else have you been doing in the city so far?” “Is there anything you’re looking forward to?” “What made you to decide to visit place?” – is a good way to start natural conversations, and maybe learn something new about the destination. Even asking someone to take your photo can be a conversation starter.

There’s a chance you’ll find someone with a common interest, from a deep love of Spanish tapas to a bowling obsession to speaking Greek as a second language. If you get along well and the timing works out, it may be the first of many conversations with a new friend who shares similar tastes. It helps to have WhatsApp downloaded on your phone if you’re outside of the US, as that’s the easiest way to communicate with travelers with phone numbers from other countries.

They eliminate language barriers

From my experience, it doesn’t matter whether your tour group is large or small. They’re always great ways to connect with other travelers, especially since tours are offered in specific languages. So if you’re taking a free walking tour in English, the other people on your tour will also speak English, no matter where in the world you are.

During your tour, don’t be afraid to speak up and ask questions. It shows the guides that you’re interested, which drives them to share even more information. And curiosity can connect you with other travelers with common queries, sparking conversations and encouraging other people to speak up, too.

New friends can be future travel buddies

You’ll likely meet other outgoing people who you can travel with short- or long-term. Photo: Ben Wehrman/Shutterstock

Another easy way to initiate a conversation is by asking people on the tour where they’re from. People usually enjoy sharing stories about themselves and their backgrounds, and I’ve met multiple people who had similar mindsets on travel, as well as similar backgrounds. I’ve met people who live in places in the US I’ve always been interested in visiting, and we’ve connected so well that I know I’ll be reaching out to them when I make it to their hometowns back in the States.

These free walking tours aren’t just fun and helpful, but a good reminder that we’re all human beings who crave connections. So if you’re feeling lonely on the road, consider giving one a try. If you’re brave enough to put yourself out there, you’ll probably be rewarded. These tours can be a way to find community in a new place, get to know a city on a deeper level, and create friendships that go beyond the boundaries of the tour experience (and maybe beyond the trip itself).

More like thisTravelI Took a Group Tour for the First Time, and It Defied All My Expectations

Bryce Canyon Vs. Zion National Parks: Which Park Is Right for You?

It’s no secret that Utah is home to some of the most gorgeous national parks in the country, as well as some of the most gorgeous sites that aren’t technically national parks, but are managed by the park service (like Bears Ears National Monument). For avid hikers and backpackers, ranking the state’s best national parks can be a challenge, even among those who live in Utah. If you’re from out of state with only a few days to visit a park, it gets even harder.

Fortunately, some parks are close to each other, like Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. In fact, they share the same gateway town of Moab. So if you’re deciding between those two parks, it’s easy to combine them in one trip.

But if you’re deciding to visit Zion or Bryce Canyon national parks, it gets a bit trickier — especially since both parks offer plenty to do to fill an entire long weekend. While they aren’t too far from one another, they’re too far apart to see both in a day, so you’ll need to pick one on shorter trips.

Here’s what to know to know about activities, hiking, weather, and more, to help you decide between visiting Zion and Bryce Canyon national parks.

Jump to:Environment and natureSeasonality and when to goHiking and backpacking in Bryce Canyon vs. ZionDriving tours and accessible activitiesOther major things to do in each parkHotels in and around Bryce Canyon vs. ZionFrontcountry camping in each park Getting to each parkEntry reservations at each parkWhat kind of traveler will prefer each park?Nature and environment

The Virgin River formed Zion’s famous canyon and created the steep walls of famous hikes like The Narrows. Photo: Sarah Quintans/Shutterstock

Zion and Bryce Canyon National Park are both in Utah, but the landscapes are quite different (at least in some areas of the park).

Zion’s main draw is gorgeous Zion Canyon, a red-rock chasm 15 miles long formed by eons of erosion by the Virgin River. In some places, the canyon’s walls are 3,000 feet high. Expect arid, dry conditions near the top with a mix of extreme heat and heavy snow, and more lush landscapes farther down closer to the river. In the transitions between climates, you’ll find gorgeous features like waterfalls and hanging gardens. Zion National Park’s main road (Zion Canyon Scenic Drive) is an out-and-back road that covers the first seven miles of the canyon.

Bryce Canyon is equally lovely, but with less abrupt and dramatic changes between elevations. But that’s not to say the landscape isn’t still dramatic. The park is famous for it’s hoodoos — spire-like rock formations sculpted by wind and frost. There are thousands of them in the “amphitheater,” the largest canyon in Bryce Canyon close to the Visitor Center. Bryce Canyon is generally cooler than Zion, as most of the park sits above 8,000 feet above sea level, and it has more forests than you’ll find around Zion.

Bryce Canyon’s entrance and roads are the top of the canyon, so it’s cooler and dryer. Zion’s Kolob Canyons area, in the northern part of the park (and not connected by roads to Zion Canyon), has weather more similar to Bryce Canyon.

Seasonality and when to go

Bryce Canyon’s famous hoodoos covered in snow. Photo: ASGARALY LOULOUA/Shutterstock

When it comes to Zion versus Bryce Canyon, both have the same peak season: summer. That’s when weather is warmest (potentially too warm in Zion Canyon, where temperatures can regularly reach the high 80 degrees Fahrenheit range during the day), and kids are out of school, so family vacations are popular. Bryce Canyon is more pleasant in the summer as the temperatures get a bit cooler at night; July in Bryce has an average daytime temperature of 76 degrees and a nighttime low in the 40 degrees.

The temperature difference between the parks (a 15-degree or so difference at any given time) means Zion’s weather changes about a month ahead of Bryce Canyon. It’s still winter in Bryce Canyon in March, but it may be shorts-and-a-T-shirt hiking weather in Zion by then. Bryce Canyon also gets snow across the park, while Zion usually only gets snow on mountain peaks and around Kolob Canyon. So to avoid the crowds and still have good outdoor weather for hiking and other activities, visit Zion in March and April, or October and November; and visit Bryce Canyon in April and May, or September and early October.

In both parks, late July through early September is monsoon (heavy rain) season. Slot canyons and narrow canyons like the aptly named The Narrows in Zion can become deadly in a matter of minutes during heavy rain. If you’re planning on exploring canyons in either park, skip these months, or be ready to change your plans at the last minute based on weather.

Hiking and backpacking in Bryce Canyon vs. Zion

Backpackers in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah. Photo: NPS/Peter Densmore/Public Domain

Both Zion and Bryce Canyon will keep hikers happy, but Zion has the edge for larger groups of hikers. That’s because Zion has more hiking trails, offering a wider range of challenge and variety. Zion is also home to some of the most famous hiking trails in the American West, like The Narrows through the Virgin River, and the famous Angels Landing. Zion’s lower elevation also gives it an edge when it comes to year-round hiking, as fewer trails will be covered in snow come December.

Zion’s most popular hiking trails are in Zion Canyon and start from one of nine different trailheads along Zion Canyon Scenic Road. Private vehicles are not allowed to drive on the road between March and November, so you’ll need to take the free shuttle from the Zion National Park Visitor Center to move between trailheads. You can also rent e-bikes from nearby stores, or run/walk the road, though it’s seven miles long. It takes about 45 minutes to get from the first stop (the Visitor Center) to the last stop (the Temple of Sinawava, starting point for The Narrows). Most trails start at the bottom and go up; Angels Landing gains 1,500 feet of elevation in 2.7 miles.

At Bryce Canyon, think of the trails as being opposite of those at Zion: you’ll start at the top and hike down. The park has fewer hikes, and most of them start in the amphitheater. The trails are a bit shorter than those at Zion and lead to viewpoints with excellent views of the hoodoos, meaning you don’t have to hike downhill if you’d rather not do much elevation gain. That’s in contrast to Zion, where you’ll have to hike up if you want views down into the canyon. However, Bryce does have some longer hikes, like the 8-mile Fairyland Loop, which loses (and gains) 1,900 feet of elevation.

Neither park is particularly known for backcountry hiking the way Yosemite or Grand Teton may be, but they both have a few options.

Bryce Canyon has two backcountry (overnight) hiking trails, and you’ll need to get a permit in advance online to hike them between March and November. From December 1 to February 28, permits are available on a walk-up basis from the Visitor Center. There’s a fixed number of passes available every day, so you should make your plans as far in advance as possible, but it’s not a cutthroat lottery system like you’d find at Glacier National Park. That said, summer weekends still fill up quickly. You can book your permits up to 90 days in advance on a rolling basis (so permits for July 1 become available on April 1). Review the backcountry hiking regulations at Bryce Canyon National Park in advance, especially the details about potable water and bear canisters.

There’s no backcountry hiking that stays in Zion Canyon, unless you count overnight trips that start from Chamberlain’s Ranch and end at the Temple of Sinewava (a 16-mile overnight hike). There are a few trails that start on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, but most of the trails are in the park’s Kolob Canyon or Kolob Terrace areas. Only 50 percent of the backcountry permits are reservable online, and the other 50 percent are first-come, first-served one day ahead of time at the park’s visitor centers. Online permits for each month open on a specific date, so check the calendar in advance and have your account set up on Recreation.gov ahead of time.

Zion is more popular than Bryce Canyon, and backcountry permits usually get taken quickly.

Driving tours and accessible activities

Most of the popular viewpoints around the Bryce Canyon Amphitheater are wheelchair-friendly. Photo: Leonard Zhukovsky/Shutterstock

Neither Bryce Canyon or Zion are particularly ideal for driving tours. Zion National Park’s main road is the 7-mile, out-and-back Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, so it’s not much of a tour. But the park bus system is free, so you certainly could just go for a ride out and back on the shuttle. It would be about a 90-minute roundtrip ride to the Temple of Sinewava and back. If you get a window seat, you’d at least be able to check out the dramatic rock formations along the canyon. You can also drive Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, a scenic, upper-elevation route outside the canyon with views from multiple overlooks, including Checkerboard Mesa and Canyon Overlook Trail.

If you visit in August, you can book an open-air tram ride along the scenic drive via the park’s Zion Lodge.

Bryce Canyon has one entrance and one road: the Southern Scenic Drive. It starts at the Visitor Center and takes about 40 minutes to reach the turn-around point. Most of the prettiest viewpoints in the park are along this road, so it’s a good way to see the park’s main attractions with minimal hiking. There’s a guided audio accompaniment for it available on the National Park Service app.

Bryce Canyon doesn’t ban personal vehicles like Zion does, but the parking lots can fill up early in the morning. So you may instead want to make use of the free Bryce Canyon National Park shuttle, which stops at multiple points along the road, as well as a few spots in the nearby town of Bryce Canyon City. It runs from April to mid-October.

Aside from the park shuttles, there are no driving tours in Bryce Canyon or Zion national parks. But all the visitors centers and museums in both Bryce Canyon and Zion are ADA-compliant. In Zion, the Pa’rus Trail is paved and a good option for visitors with limited mobility. In Bryce Canyon, there’s a very detailed guide to accessibility at each of the amphitheater’s most famous viewpoints, and a full park-wide accessibility guide is available at the Visitor Center. Both parks also have large-print guides and seasonal ranger programs that accommodate all guests.

Other major recreational draws

Visitors on a guided horseback ride through Bryce Canyon National Park. Photo: Brookie Cookie/Shutterstock

Love stargazing at national parks? Good news: you don’t need to choose between Bryce Canyon vs. Zion. Both are certified International Dark Sky Parks and have night sky programs throughout the year hosted by rangers. There are plenty of trails in Zion ideal for stargazing, and Bryce Canyon National Park hosts ranger-led full-moon hikes.

Both parks are also popular with people who want to explore trails on horseback. Bryce Canyon offers tours through the park from April to October, and Zion offers horseback riding from March to October. There’s one company that offers tours: Bryce-Zion Trail Rides, and it’s the only trail riding outfitter authorized to operate within the two parks.

In terms of other activities, Zion is known as having a bit more variety. Canyoneering is very popular; experts can do it on their own, while beginners and novice visitors should use a licensed guide like Red Desert Adventures or East Zion Adventures. It’s also known for rock climbing, but the routes are generally pretty advanced. So if you’re a beginner, use a guiding company like Rock Odysseys or Zion Guru. There’s also the “Above Zion” via ferrata on the outskirts of the northern part of the park, which has some of the most stunning views in the Kolob Canyons area — but be cautious if you have a fear of heights.

Hotels and nearby towns

Zion Lodge is a historic national park hotel halfway down Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and the only hotel within the park boundaries. Photo: Patrizio Martorana/Shutterstock

Both Bryce Canyon and Zion national parks have an in-park hotel. Zion’s is the Zion Lodge, and Bryce Canyon’s is the Bryce Canyon Lodge. The Zion Lodge is open year-round, while Bryce Canyon’s hotel is only open from late March to early November.

If you can’t find a room in either park, it’s no big deal. The main entrance to Zion National Park is in the town of Springdale, and Bryce Canyon is in Bryce Canyon City. The latter is only about two miles from the entrance to Bryce Canyon National Park, and depending on where you stay in Springdale, you can walk to Zion.

If you stay in Springdale, consider booking a Zion National Park Airbnb or hotel within walking distance to one of the free Springdale shuttles. The town gets very crowded, and the parking lot at Zion National Park’s main visitor center can fill quickly, so it’s much easier to take the free town shuttle to the park entrance, rather than dealing with your own car. There are also lots of rental cabins near Zion.

Bryce Canyon City doesn’t get quite as busy, so it’s not as hectic and hotels can be a little cheaper. It also means there’s a little more space on the outskirts of town, and you’re more likely to find larger, more private Bryce Canyon Airbnb rentals fairly close to the park, whereas in Zion, rentals with more land will be farther out (and pricier).

Camping in Bryce Canyon vs. Zion

Watchman Campground in Zion National Park. Photo: Andriy Blokhin/Shutterstock

If camping is your game, you’ll want to reserve your campsites in advance on Recreation.gov. Zion has three campgrounds, but only one, Watchman Campground, is in Zion Canyon. It’s very close to the park entrance and is open year-round. All campsites are available for advanced booking, and reservations open on a rolling basis six months in advance. It fills up quickly, so try to book your Watchman Campground reservation as far in advance as possible. It’s not unusual for weekends in June and August to be full by March. You can walk to restaurants in Springdale, so it’s pretty easy camping.

Zion’s two other campgrounds are the South Campground (closed indefinitely for restoration) and Lava Point Campground on Kolob Terrace Road (about 90 mins from the Springdale entrance). Lava Point is open only from May to September as it gets much more snow, and campground reservations open two weeks ahead of time on a rolling basis. It’s far less popular, but only has six sites, so plan accordingly.

Campers at Bryce Canyon have two choices: the North Campground or Sunset Campground. The North Campground is by the Visitor Center while the Sunset Campground is about 1.5 miles south of it, but it’s only about a 10 minute walk between the two. Both are also on the park’s shuttle route.

The North Campground is open year-round and is first-come, first-served between early October and mid-May. During the summer, you’ll need to make a reservation for Bryce Canyon’s North Campground online on Recreation.gov. Sites fill up quickly and open on a six-month rolling basis — so if you want to camp on September 15, make your reservation on March 15.

The Sunset Campground is closed from late October to mid-April. You do need to make reservations for the Sunset Campground for stays between mid-May and mid-October. They’re available on Recreation.gov and open two weeks ahead of time on a rolling basis.

Since the campgrounds are close to each other, and Bryce Canyon isn’t that big, it doesn’t matter much which campground you choose. There’s even a little general store in the summer near the Sunset Campground (with hot coffee), so you don’t have to walk to the Visitor Center to buy things, or even do much camp cooking, if you don’t want to.

Getting to Bryce Canyon vs. Zion

On a map, it looks like Bryce Canyon and Zion aren’t too far from one another, but the distance can be deceiving. Bryce Canyon has only one entrance, and it’s on the opposite side of Zion, so it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to drive between them. Google Maps will say it’s about two hours, but when you account for traffic and delays entering and exiting the parks, you’re looking at a bit more depending on timing.

The closest airport to Zion National Park is St. George Airport in Utah. It connects to Salt Lake City, Denver, Phoenix, and Dallas, so depending on where you live, you may be able to get there with just one stop. The St. George Airport is about 45 minutes from Springdale. The largest major airport to Zion National Park is Harry Reid International in Las Vegas. It’s about a three-hour drive from Las Vegas to Zion, and it’s one of the most beautiful road trips in that part of the country, with gorgeous places to stop along the way.

For Bryce Canyon, the airport in Cedar City, Utah, is the closest, at about 1.5 hours away. However, it connects only to Salt Lake City, which can be inconvenient. If that doesn’t work, you’ll need to use the same airports as Zion (St. George is about a three-hour drive) or you can use Page Municipal Airport in Arizona (also about three hours away), which connects to Phoenix and is also very close to Grand-Staircase Escalante National Monument.

Both parks have seasonal road closures in the high-elevation areas. In Bryce Canyon, roads closures can happen for snow or snow-clearing, so check the Bryce Canyon National Park road status website if you’re visiting between December and March. Zion is also subject to snow closures on some roads. Check the bottom of the Zion National Park seasonal status website, or follow @ZionNPS on X, which posts road closure updates. The roads around Kolob Canyons are especially prone to closures.

Park reservations and permits

The Narrows in Zion National Park, Utah. Photo: Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock

Reservations at Bryce Canyon and Zion national parks are pretty straightforward: you do not need entry reservations at either park, unlike nearby Arches National Park or California’s Yosemite National Park. However, both parks do require permits for specialized activities like canyoneering or self-guided paddling trips.

However, there is one hike that requires a permit year-round: Angel’s Landing in Zion. Reservations open four times per year; permits for summer hiking dates open on April 1 on Recreation.gov. You can submit up to seven dates, ranked in priority order. There’s also a day-before online lottery — enter by 3 PM on Recreation.gov, and you’ll find out by 4 PM if you got a permit for the next day. You do not need a permit for the park’s other famous hike, The Narrows, though you can reserve rental waders and boots online.

What kind of person will like each park?

Bryce Canyon’s landscapes have snow in higher elevations through April. Photo: Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock

Truthfully, most people who like being outdoors will like both parks. But visitors who are keen to see otherworldly landscapes might find themselves drawn more to Bryce Canyon National Park than Zion. Bryce Canyon’s famous hoodoos look like a half-fairytale, half-Martian movie set, especially around the crimson-colored amphitheater. When it comes to crowds at both, Bryce Canyon is certainly less crowded, especially on some of the longer hikes with steeper elevation gain. Zion generally attracts larger crowds, especially on trails like The Narrows and on easier hikes in Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. However, Zion’s region of Kolob Canyons does have fewer visitors.

If you’re after more outdoor activities other than hiking, especially more high-adrenaline activities like rock climbing or canyoneering, Zion may be a better pick. Since Zion is more popular, there are more activity operators and guided adventures in the area. Zion is also much larger and has more hiking trails with more variety, which may be more appealing to visitors looking to hike multiple days in a row, or with groups of split ability levels. Conversely, Bryce Canyon has more viewpoints and vistas for non-hikers, since the road is at the top of the canyon, not the bottom.

Weather-wise, if you’re visiting in winter and want peaceful landscapes, it’s hard to beat the views of Bryce Canyon’s snow-covered hoodoos. But if you’re sick of winter and want to get a jump on hiking season in February, Zion will be warmer and more pleasant. And campers afraid of getting too cold will also prefer Zion, since Bryce Canyon’s nighttime temperatures can get much lower those in Zion, even in the summer.

More like thisNational Parks6 Unmissable State and National Parks Near Zion

These Denver Airbnbs Are Cannabis Friendly

Denver is known as the “Mile High City” due to some parts of the state capital standing exactly one mile above sea level. After recreational marijuana was legalized in Colorado back in January 2014, cannabis-curious travelers can now get high in more ways than one. Flower, edibles, and other apparel must only be purchased from a licensed dispensary and consumed on private property in Denver. Sidewalks, ski slopes, and trails are off-limits but 420-friendly accommodation is a safe haven to space out. These cannabis-friendly Airbnbs in Denver give you the green light to smoke.

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 Denver! 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 Play Airbnb in DenverPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosFifteen minutes from Larimer Square and Golden, this contemporary suburban home gives you the best of city and nature Cook anything from brownies to a roast dinner in the state-of-the-art kitchen or go al fresco with the backyard grill. It’s out here that smoking – flower and tobacco – is permitted to preserve the interiors. There’s a fire pit to keep things toasty in winter before heading back indoors for a round of air hockey.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $107 per night

Book Now

Mid-century oasis near the Rocky MountainsPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis bright and cheery 420-friendly guest house is located on the western edge of Denver. Right off Interstate 17, it’s an easy 15-minute drive to the Red Rocks. The boutique decor is inspired by the Mountain State and all rooms are topped off with custom touches to create a homey warmth. After a day out, you can toke up on the patio overlooking a lush green lawn. Only vaping is permitted inside the apartment.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $90 per night

Book Now

“Bud and Breakfast” Airbnb in Mile High CityPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis marijuana-friendly cottage is in the backyard of the homeowner’s residence. The lawn, gazebo, and fire pit are technically shared although guests have priority. In place of a morning pancake stack, the host provides complimentary flower and edibles. Dogs are welcome to stay and can enjoy a game of chase with the resident pooch. It’s pretty roomy for a studio unit with a separate seating area and a decent kitchen.

Four guests, one bedroom (studio)
Price: $141 per night

Book Now

Downtown Denver cannabis-friendly Airbnb with a patioPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis stylish one-bedroom nook is positioned on the right side of downtown for getting out the Rockies. The space is made cozy with a squashy couch covered with scatter cushions and blankets – although there’s no ganja permitted over the threshold. The smoking patio and backyard are shared with one other rental unit. Eager chefs will have a field day in the kitchen while restaurants are within walking distance.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $125 per night

Book Now

Green and serene vacation suite with a hothousePhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis 420-friendly Airbnb in Denver’s Athmar Park neighborhood is green in more ways than one. You’ll arrive into a shamrock-colored kitchen and find pot plants – no, not that kind – throughout the living areas and bedroom. There are lots of tourist materials and biking route maps dotted around to incite your sense of adventure. The greenhouse and seasonal pool are shared with the host. Smoking is restricted to the private patio.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $125 per night

Book Now

Inside/outside smoker’s bungalowPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis is one of the only cannabis-friendly Airbnbs in Denver where smoking is permitted indoors. The host lives in the basement unit and is happy to provide accessories to lighten your packing list. Note the epic mountain mural in the lounge and the arcade game gallery in the master bedroom. The kitchen is well-equipped for when the munchies strike and the patio is a treat during the warmer months.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $124 per night

Book Now

Mellow vacation unit in southwest DenverPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis lovely apartment has a private patio where you can sit out in the sun with a bud and play yard games. The hosts are happy for mild cannabis consumption indoors although tobacco is outside only. Besides the bedroom, the couch in the lounge rolls out into an additional bed. This is a suburban neighborhood popular with young professionals and you’ll benefit from easy access to downtown and the great outdoors.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $70 per night

Book Now

Guest Favorite Airbnb in Denver for smokersPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis awesome suite with a private yard lets you experience the best of everything the Mile High City has to offer. It’s as close to downtown as it is to hiking trails and you’ll not struggle to get slopeside during winter. To round off a day of exploring, the homeowners are relaxed with recreational Mary Jane as long as it takes place outdoors. The reviews and high ratings speak for themselves and the occasional visit from the hosts’ dogs is a perk.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $135 per night

Book Now

Indoor 420-OK house near Denver Art DistrictPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis is one of the few cannabis-friendly Airbnbs in downtown Denver where smoking is permitted inside and outdoors. It’s also a sizable patch of real estate with a bar, games room, and backyard with an above-ground pool. As per local laws, the host lives onsite in the outhouse and is always down to hang out with guests. Otherwise, he’ll make himself scarce and leave you to experiment with a dope collection of bongs and dab rigs.

Fourteen guests, three bedrooms
Price: $137 per night

Book Now

Lakefront 420 and hot tub paradise near Red RocksPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosConvenient for the city sights and the mountains, this peaceful marijuana-friendly Airbnb is part of Denver’s Aloha Beach community off Interstate 76. The walk-out basement apartment has a sandy backyard overlooking the water. Make yourself at home with a blunt in the hammock or the Jacuzzi – best enjoyed after a paddle with the complimentary kayaks and paddleboards. Catching sunrise over the lake is worth the early alarm clock.

Eight guests, two bedrooms
Price: $150 per night

Book Now

Capitol Hill cannabis condoPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosYou’ll wake up full of beans in this downtown apartment with sunlight aplenty and colorful paintwork. It’s a simple abode that has only undergone light renovation over the years. This adds to the charm and makes it all the homier after a day of exploration. There isn’t any outdoor space at this super-central rental pad but the host is happy for guests to smoke weed inside. Tobacco and cigarettes are prohibited.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $79 per night

Book Now

More like thisRestaurants + BarsThis Gorgeous Colorado Distillery Makes the First Single Pot Still Whiskey Outside of Ireland

New Study Found America’s Top Rated Independent Restaurants

Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast for dinner, Chinese cuisine, or a deliciously juicy burger, there’s a good chance that, whatever city you reside in, you can quickly get into your car and dine at one of these types of establishments. There’s no hiding that America loves to splurge on dining out. According to US Foods, the average person in the United States dines out at least twice a month, and at least half of those meals are at independently owned establishments.

Although the US is obsessed with its fast food chains, independent restaurants are the heart and soul of the industry. More than half of the restaurants in the US are independent, meaning non-franchise or chain businesses that are locally owned and operated or family owned and operated. They’re the type of places you can’t find anywhere else, and are often immune to (or at least less dependent on) the whims of social media trends.

But all independent restaurants aren’t made equally. There are some that rise above as fan favorites. The small business loan finance company On Deck dug into restaurant ratings to find the top loved independent restaurants out there.

On Deck used Yelp reviews and ratings that were available to the public for 149,099 independent restaurants within the most populated cities in the US. While doing so, they broke ea h into different food categories, such as pizza, burgers, vegan, breakfast, and international cuisine. On Deck used ratings to rank them and broke ties between restaurants by opting for the restaurant with the highest reviews.

Yelp is admittedly not an end all, be all for a guaranteed top-notch dining experience. More populous cities and places where the app is more popular will obviously have more engagement. The service is also notoriously plagued by juiced reviews that were given in exchange for a discount or deal, not to mention people who leave bad ratings for food that wasn’t necessarily subpar but just wasn’t what they were expecting. Still, the ratings offer a look into what places people are most loving.

The top 10 highest-rated independent restaurants in the US

Hey Sunshine Kitchen in Los Angeles (5 stars)Beewali’s Vegan AF in Los Angeles (5 stars)Destination Taiwan in Cheyenne, Wyoming (5 stars)Waffle and Berry in Honolulu (4.9 stars)Franky’s Deli Warehouse in Miami (4.9 stars)Scotty’s Cafe in Colombus, Ohio (4.9 stars)Its Izakaya in Las Vegas (4.9 stars)Garlic Yuzu in Las Vegas (4.9 stars)Dad’s Favorites in Lexington, Kentucky (4.9 stars)Casa De Falafel in Phoenix, Arizona (4.9 stars)

The top 10 highest-rated independent restaurants in the US for vegan cuisine

Hey Sunshine Kitchen in Los Angeles (5 stars)Beewali’s Vegan AF in Los Angeles (5 stars) Thanh Tinh Chay in San Diego (4.9 stars)Casa De Falafel in Phoenix, Arizona (4.9 stars)The Mediterranean Chickpea in Tampa, Florida (4.9 stars)Urban Fresh in Tucson, Arizona (4.9 stars)Boon Cafe in Chicago (4.9 stars)Pure Kitchen Organic Vegan in Tampa, Florida (4.9 stars)Bowl Mami in Dallas, Texas (4.9 stars)Pure Soul in Durham, North Carolina (4.9 stars)

The top 10 highest-rated independent pizza places in the US

Z&Z in Germantown, Maryland (4.9 stars)Hillcrust Pizza in San Diego (4.9 stars)Los Angeles Pizzeria Company in Los Angeles (4.9 stars)Acqua E Farina By Ciro Esposito in Miami (4.9 stars)Brewability and Pizzability in Denver (4.9 stars)Siamo Napoli in San Diego (4.8 stars)Ciao! Pizza and Pasta in Boston (4.8 stars)Smiling with Hope Pizza in Reno, Nevada (4.8 stars)Zeneli Pizzeria and Cucina Napoletana in New Haven, Connecticut (4.8 stars)A Dopo Sourdough Pizza in Knoxville, Tennessee (4.8 stars)

The top 10 highest-rated independent restaurants for burger places in the US

Wild Carvery in Los Angeles (4.9 stars)Classic Burger in San Diego (4.9 stars)Leatherneck Club in Las Vegas (4.9 stars)Blue Bird Burgers in Los Angeles (4.9 stars)Ooh Lala Burgers in Tacaoma, Washington (4.8 stars)Streetwise Urabn Food in Orlando, Florida (4.8 stars)Joy Burgers in Las Vegas (4.8 stars)Banyan’s Island Grill in Honolulu (4.8 stars)Culinary Gangster in Pheonix, Arizona (4.8 stars)Burger-chan in Houston, Texas (4.8 stars)

The top 10 highest-rated independent restaurants in the US for breakfast

Scotty’s Cafe in Columbus, Ohio (4.9 stars)Curbgrill in Los Angeles (4.9 stars)Cafe Porche and Snowbar in New Orleans (4.9 stars)Christie’s Deli in Philadelphia (4.9 stars)Sandwhich Shoppe in Rutland (4.9 stars)Happy Cafe in Virginia Beach, Virginia (4.9 stars)Raptor Canyon Cafe in Tucson, Arizona (4.9 stars)Family Cafe in Portland, Oregon (4.9 stars)RJ Skillets in Portland, Oregon (4.9 stars)Carlillos Cocina in Sparks, Nevada (4.8 stars)

As for the highest-rated independent restaurant in the US for international cuisine, some of the top-ranked cuisines were ts Izakaya in Las Vegas; Shoufi Mahfi Mediterranean Grill in Orlando, Florida; and Santarepa Cafe in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Regardless of what you’re craving, there is always something there, but there is always something exclusive about independent restaurants.

Rocco Forte Hotels Hosts a Luxurious Rail Journey From Scotland to Sicily

The luxury hotel brand Rocco Forte Hotels recently combined its world-class hospitality with sustainable slow travel to create a modern-day “Grand Tour” of European cities by rail. The scenic vacation train package connects two of the most romantic cities in Europe: Edinburgh, Scotland, and Palermo, Sicily. It’s designed to let travelers indulge in an inter-rail experience while taking a deep dive into local cultural experiences at each stop.

Photo: Rocco Forte HotelsPhoto: Rocco Forte HotelsPhoto: Rocco Forte HotelsPhoto: Rocco Forte Hotels

The first-class package connects eight of the European cities that travelers flock to: Edinburgh, London, Brussels, Berlin, Munich, Florence, Rome, and Palermo. It includes a luxurious 16-night stay at Rocco Forte Hotels (two nights at each location). Guests will have the chance to stay in The Balmoral in Edinburgh, Brown’s Hotel in London, Hotel Amigo in Brussels, Hotel de Rome in Berlin, The Charles Hotel in Munich, Hotel Savoy in Florence, Hotel de Russie in Rome, and end the trip at Villa Igiea in Palmero.

Must-see sights along the route get full attention, including an exclusive visit to the Vatican at dawn and a private art tour with a local artist to learn about Munich’s art scene. When in Scotland, you can explore the historic Old Town and visit the country’s first unisex perfume shop, Kingdom Scotland, with the Rocco Forte’s renowned scent butler. Other notable excursions include exploring London Mayfair’s trendy art scene, a Comic City Tour in Belgium, a guided bike ride through Berlin, a tour of popular 80s hotspots in Munich, and foraging for truffles with a truffle concierge in Tuscany. In Palermo, one of the best regions to eat in Italy, guests will also meet Michelin-star chef Fulvio Pierangelini and enjoy local seasonal dishes.

Booking the package is available through Expression Holidays. Luxury, of course, doesn’t come cheap with rates that begin at $8,560 per person. Along with first-class rail travel from Edinburgh to Palmero, the package includes 16 nights with two nights free at each hotel and ferry, transportation, and return flight.

More like thisTrain TravelThese Trains Will Take You From Rome to Venice for the Ultimate Trip Across Italy

The Best Rentals From Airbnb’s New Golfing Category

How’s your swing? If you’re looking to up your handicap then a golfing vacation is one way to pick up the pace. Airbnb’s latest category groups properties near golf courses and homes with private backyard greens. Larger rentals even incorporate elements of the Play category and ensure that kids and non-golfers are entertained at tee time. Stay and play at the best of Airbnb’s Golfing category for families and groups across the United States.

Matador’s guides to the best of Airbnb Categories: 10 Remote, Off-The-Grid Airbnbs Where You Can Get Away From It All The 11 Most Beautiful Converted Churches You Can Stay in Around the World on Airbnb Airbnb Just Made Windmills a Category, and These 9 Have Us Planning a Trip Airbnb Now Has a Towers Category. These 9 Will Climb Your Bucket List Airbnb Launched a Tiny Homes Category, and We’re Already Planning Trips Around These 11 11 Properties in Airbnb’s New OMG! Category You Won’t Believe Are Real These Are the Coolest Properties in Airbnb’s New Play Category These Beautiful Accessible Properties Showcase the Best of Airbnb’s Adapted Category These Are the Most Impressive Listings in Airbnb’s New Trending Category These Unique Abodes Showcase the Best of Airbnb’s Top of the World Category

We hope you love these rentals from the Airbnb Golfing category! 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.

Luxury golf and recreation ranch – Thermal, CaliforniaPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis Coachella Valley home is the double eagle of Golfing Airbnbs. Roll out of bed and onto the backyard putting green – then drive 10 minutes to the public 18-hole, championship course at Indian Springs Big Rock. The barn sits on a freshwater lake with a private beach and a fleet of kayaks tethered to the dock. It also has football, basketball, and tennis grounds and a sunny pool to ensure everyone is happy.

Sixteen+ guests, nine bedrooms
Price: $2,314 per night

Book Now

Beachfront Golfing Airbnb near courses – Fort Pierce, FloridaPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosGolfing is available year-round in the Sunshine State. Even better – tee time is anytime you want it to be at this oceanfront estate with a six-hole golf course. Rental also includes access to a private beach on the barrier island plus complimentary kayaks, bikes, and paddle boards. Non-members are welcome at the nearby Gator Trace, Fairwinds, and Savanna clubs while a day trip to Disney is ambitious yet doable.

Sixteen+ guests, ten bedrooms
Price: $828 per night

Book Now

Golfing Airbnb near TPC Sawgrass – Ponte Vedra Beach, FloridaPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis secluded rental is a 10-minute drive from the home of the Players Championship. Both premium courses are open to the public – book the Players Stadium Course for a swing at the Island Green hole. Shake off any tension with a paddle at Mickler Beach before settling into this estate amid the Guana Preserve. The five-bedroom villa has a lush backyard and pool plus near-exclusive use of the professional tennis court.

Fifteen guests, five bedrooms
Price: $1,450 per night

Book Now

Golfing getaway with secret speakeasy – San Antonio, TexasPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThe Texas Open debuted at the Brackenridge Park Golf Course and it remains a top-rated public golf course in the United States. This Tobin Hill mansion predates the tournament by 12 years and has been meticulously renovated exactly how you’d expect to find a luxury Airbnb. What will surprise you is the blind tiger. When you’re ready to parr-tee, just grab your preferred moonshine and head down to the basement.

Sixteen+ guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $1,312 per night

Book Now

Modern mountain golfing estate – Cle Elum, WashingtonPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosNo need to get a waggle on in the morning when you stay at this golfer’s Airbnb in Washington State. It sits at the 11th hole of the Rope Rider Golf Course, the easiest of two championship premium greens open to the public at the Suncadia Resort. Putters and non-golfers alike will appreciate the hot tub, the gentle walking trails, the clubhouse facilities, and the resort winery.

Sixteen+ guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $1,412 per night

Book Now

Family-friendly Golfing and Play Airbnb – Queensbury, New YorkPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosChampionship courses are all fine and dandy but what about little swingers and non-golfers? Crazy golf has an irresistible pace of play and this mansion in Upstate New York “putts” you minutes from Pirate’s Cove, Goony Golf, and Lumberjack Pass. The manor has a seasonal pool with a slide, a hot tub, and a games den between adventures. Visit in winter for world-class skiing and jolly holiday happenings.

Sixteen+ guests, nine bedrooms
Price: $1,050 per night

Book Now

Mediterranean beach mansion and putting green – Brigantine, New JerseyPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosStaying at this Golfing Airbnb lets you book a public tee time at the Atlantic City Country Club (aka, the Birthplace of Birdie) or the Seaview Golf Club. But first, dust off your clubs in the private green or take a morning dip in the plunge pool. The rooftop deck spies on the ocean while the living quarters and suites are sumptuously furnished for golfing families and groups.

Sixteen+ guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $991 per night

Book Now

Lowcountry golf Airbnb on the green – Hilton Head Island, South CarolinaPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosTwenty-four championship courses await you on this wee Atlantic island and this homey townhouse lets you enjoy a loop at as many as you like. The deck overlooks the fifth hole of the Clipper Course at the Shipyard Club where you’ll par discount golf. It’s not uncommon to spot an alligator crawling across the lawn: rest assured, they favor fish to golfers. Hilton Head has 12 miles of beaches to explore between putting.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $125 per night

Book Now

Grand Slam villa for golfers – Del Monte Forest, CaliforniaPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosFlex your skills at Pebble Beach Golf Links, the best public course in the United States, and replay the day at this gated clifftop dwelling. It’s the epitome of Californian luxury with Pacific views in most rooms and a sunken hot tub on one of countless balconies. The gourmet kitchen is a perk for keen chefs although Monterey County spoils you for seafood and farm-to-table dining.

Sixteen+ guests, six bedrooms
Price: $2,050 per night

Book Now

Golfer’s lodge with ace views – Branson, MissouriPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosTiger Woods picked the Ozark Mountains for his inaugural public-access golf course. Payne’s Valley sits in good company amid 11 other prestigious clubs open to non-members. This Airbnb for golfers sits directly on the Thousand Hills course and grants discounts on the par 66 playing field. Give other putters the thumbs up from your private hot tub in between rounds and remember to take the kids to a local mini golf.

Sixteen+ guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $355 per night

Book Now

Southampton home near National Golf – Hampton Bays, New YorkPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosBooking a golf vacation at this exceptional property in the Hamptons is one thing but wrangling an invite to the country’s most prestigious (and expensive) golf club is another. The National Golf Links of America was inspired by the Old Course of St Andrews but there are several other beautifully groomed public courses close by while manifesting that invitation. Dive or slide into the pool – it’s your call.

Twelve guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,500 per night

Book Now

More like thisOutdoor9 Audubon Golf Courses That Prove Golf Can Be Sustainable

Celebrate an Extra Day to Explore in 2024 by Leaping Into These Hotel Deals

Leap year is an exciting phenomenon — due to the Earth’s orbit taking roughly 365.25 days to rotate around the sun (not the “365” we traditionally live by), as a corrective measure to align ourselves with the ongoing system of time measurement, we add in an “extra day,” on February 29, every four years.

To celebrate this extra calendar day in 2024, hotels and destinations worldwide have come up with several discounts, packages, contests, and elopement opportunities, and some even offer a “free stay” to lucky leap-year babies. Whether you’re eternally turning 29, literally turning 29, or turning 7.25 (get it?), here’s how to celebrate February 29, 2024, by planning some extra time for travel across the globe.

Leap year hotel deals by locationEast coast

Refinery Hotel in New York City. Photo courtesy Refinery Hotel

At Refinery Hotel, Leap Year Babies can celebrate their rare birthday with a free stay — turning a “once-every-four-years” party into an unforgettable experience in the heart of New York City. “The Ultimate Birthday Getaway” offers anyone born on February 29 a complimentary night’s stay in the Atelier Suite, as well as a bottle of bubbly and a Milk Bar Birthday Cake (Note that guests must provide their ID at check-in to prove their “leap-year baby” status, and their stay must include February 29, with reservations must be booked by February 27, 2024).The iconic Hard Rock Hotel New York in New York City will offer a “Bonus Tracks” deal, available for 29 hours beginning at midnight on February 29, offering 29% off an evening’s stay between March 1-September 2, 2024, also including a $50 F&B credit. One lucky guest will even be upgraded to the duplex “Rock Star Suite” upon arrival.Take the biggest “leap” with The Morrow Hotel’s flash marriage ceremonies package, available on February 29 for one day only. This NoMa, Washington D.C. hotel is helping couples officially declare their love with a two-hour elopement celebration without worrying about any big planning details. Flowers, music, food, and a regulated officiant are all included for $2,900.Feel like a kid from February 1 – March 3, 2024, at the participating properties from the Kimpton Vero Beach Resort in Florida to the Kimpton Monaco Philadelphia in Pennsylvania — and beyond (see all properties) with this package which includes overnight accommodations, a sweet welcome amenity, extra sheets and pillows for a DIY fort (or pillow fight!), a special “milk & cookies” turndown service, classic board game deliveries (Monopoly, Clue, and more!), a $129 Dining Credit, and a $29 credit for in-room throwback movie rentals.California

Photo: L.A. Nature Graphics /Shutterstock

Santa Barbara’s gorgeous Mediterranean oasis Hotel Californian invites guests to seize the (extra) day this Leap Year by offering travelers who make bookings from now through February 29 a free bottle of bubbly, 29% off the hotel’s “Best Flexible Rate” for stays through March 3, and waiving the resort fee. Book online or use the code LEAPYEAR when booking.The Meritage Resort and Spa is offering a NAPA Leap Day promotion from February 29 – March 3, offering guests who book a two-night stay a third night free for visits May 20th – September 8th (restrictions apply, meaning visitors can spend more time exploring California wine country and the rolling vineyards of Napa Valley.Catalina Island Company is getting in the spirit of the holiday with a “Leap over to Catalina Island” social media contest for the chance to win a trip to Catalina for just $29 per person. Participating individuals just need to upload a Reel of them enjoying island (think — favorite “trip memories in Catalina!”) between February 22-29 to win a trip to the Island for $29 a person. The experience includes two nights at a luxurious local boutique hotel, round-trip Catalina Express tickets, dinner at Avalon Grille, and an activity of choice (ranging from Bison Expeditions to Glass Bottom Boat tours!). Read more contest details and information on how to enter, here.Lido House in classically Californian Newport Beach, California, encourages travelers to “leap into the pool” with its single-day discounted rates at their on-site pool via Resort Pass. For one day only on February 29, this upscale beach house will offer $29 Pool Passes, $229 Cabana Rentals, and a $229 Day Pass with Spa Treatment.Europa Village in Temecula, California, offers a 29-hour Leap Day Flash Sale of a 29% discount on select rooms, beginning February 28, 2024, at 8 p.m. and ending February 29, 2024, at midnight. Travelers who book a stay between March 1 and June 30, 2024, can take advantage of this discount and opportunity to visit this Southern California wine-country property tucked into nearly 50 acres of rolling wine-country hills.Florida

Playa Largo Resort & Spa Photo courtesy Playa Largo Resort & Spa

At the “island getaway” feeling Playa Largo Resort & Spa in Key Largo, Florida, travelers who book between February 27 and March 1 get 29% off a three-night or more stay from July through September 2024 (blackout dates apply).Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach in Clearwater, Florida, celebrates the Extra Day with a Leap Day Flash Sale. Those who book three nights will get an extra night, free, available on the website on February 29, with no code necessary to book.At Hyatt Centric Las Olas in sunny Fort Lauderdale, Florida, travelers can celebrate Leap Year by upgrading to a Deluxe King Room or Cabana Room for just $29 at check-in, on February 29. While visiting, grab a drink at this hotel’s signature speakeasy, 901, which feels like stepping back in time to the 20s for a roaring cocktail experience.At Southernmost Beach Resort in Key West, Florida, located along the more peaceful southern limit of iconic Duval Street, travelers who book on February 29 will receive 15% off the best available rate at the hotel or guesthouses and two free wine tumblers — and those staying in the guesthouses will also receive a complimentary breakfast for two.Arizona

Hotel Valley Ho. Photo courtesy Hotel Valley Ho

Hotel Valley Ho, a buzzy, retro, storied Scottsdale Arizona resort, offers 29% off guest rooms to those who book on February 29 for stays between 4/1 and 6/30/24 using promo code “LEAP24.”Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale in Paradise Valley, Arizona, which is nestled into the shadow of Camelback Mountain, may exude a sense of 1950s elegance but is offering a totally modern deal of 29% off and a $29 F&B credit to those who book on Leap Day, for stays between 3/1 and 8/30/24 with the promo code “LEAP24.Nationwide

SCP Hotel in Colorado Springs. Photo couretsy SCP Hotels

SCP Hotels honors Leap Year with a special offer. Guests who stay between February 29 through March 3, 2024, will save 50% off the night of February 29 with the code “LeapYear.” This includes SCP Mendocino Coast Lodge, Mendocino Inn & Farm, SCP Seven4One, SCP Laguna Riviera, SCP Colorado Springs, SCP Hilo in Hawaii, Salishan Coastal Lodge, SCP Depoe Bay, and SCP Redmond.Foley Entertainment Group properties, including MacArthur Place in Sonoma, California, Farmhouse Inn in Forestville, California, Hotel Les Mars in Healdsburg, California, and Black Walnut Inn & Vineyard in Dundee, Oregon, are offering this same “Leap Year” deal of 29% off with all the goodies and none of the resort fees.‘The Read House in Chattanooga, Tennessee, will host a 24-hour sale beginning at midnight on February 29, allowing travelers to get a 29% discount off any evening in March 2024. Guests can admire the 241-room property’s 20s sense of splendor (picture: soaring lobby ceilings and sparkling chandeliers) while saving money on a spring stay.Each of Great Wolf Lodge‘s 20 resorts, nationwide, are hosting a Leap Day Sale, with rates at $29 per person (based on three people in a standard suite) for dates between 2/29 and 6/13/24. Travelers must book this deal on February 29 — with the promo code “LEAP” before the offer leaps away!Select Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants across the U.S. are offering a celebratory “Young at Heart” package to make any traveler feel young again — no matter what age they turn in 2024 (and whether they’d like to measure it in “leap years” or real years).International

Marquis Los Cabos Resort & Spa. Photo courtesy Marquis Los Cabos Resort & Spa

The luxury South Iceland resort Hotel Rangá also has a special present for leap year babies in honor of its 10th birthday celebration commemorating its on-site stargazing observatory (where celestial happenings like The Northern Lights can be seen). This boutique hotel is offering 10 lucky leaplings the opportunity to book a complimentary night on February 29, 2024. Leap Year birthday babies looking to win a stay should contact the property at hotelranga@hotelranga.is. Roms will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, and a valid passport must be presented upon arrival to verify their February 29th birthday status.The beachfront, adults-only Marquis Los Cabos Resort & Spa in San Jose Del Cabo, BCS, México already offers all-inclusive amenities, all the time — making it a perfect place to enjoy an extra day of travel and relaxation. And from midnight on February 29 to 5 a.m. on March 1, the property will host a 29% off flash sale on nights between the dates of March 1 and December 31, 2024. More like thisTravelThe Posh Hotel AKA Alexandria Exemplifies Contemporary East Coast Style