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Orvis Pro Insulated Hoodie Review: a Go-Everywhere Jacket That Turns Into a Travel Pillow

Some outdoor brands have a reputation for being cool, to put it bluntly. Patagonia, Arc’teryx, and Cotopaxi all convey a sense of being in-the-know, eco-friendly, and stylish without trying too hard.

No one would list Orvis as a brand synonymous with cool. In fact, you’re more likely to find jackets from the 150-year-old fishing brand hanging in the back of your grandpa’s closet than you are on skiers during après-ski or on hikers at a trendy brewery. But after a year – yes, a full year – of testing the brand’s PRO Insulated Hoodie, (men’s version here), I can say it is hands-down my favorite packable, insulated jacket I’ve ever tested.

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We hope you love the Orvis Pro Insulated Hoodie! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Shopping for a packable travel jacket? Check out Matador’s detailed reviews: These Are The Best Packable Travel Jackets On The Market This Packable Rain Jacket Will Keep You Bone Dry, Even In Torrential Rain Patagonia’s Houdini® Air Jacket Is The Perfect Packable Light Jacket Patagonia’s Micro Puff Hoody Is Perfect For Winter Travels The Cotopaxi Fuego Is the Most Durable and Dependable Down Jacket on the Market Arc’Teryx Made The World’s Most Packable Puffy Jacket

Why I love it

Photo: Suzie Dundas

Has barely shown wear after a year of heavy useWarm and sweat-free, thanks to underarm panels and high-end insulationThoughtful features like fleece-lined pockets and reinforced cuffsExcellent water- and wind-proofingPacks into a travel pillow!It’s become my go-to travel and outdoor jacket

I have plenty of packable jackets (shout out to PrAna and Stio, which make my other two favorites), but when I only have room for one jacket, it’s the Orvis Pro Insulated Hoodie. And that’s because it’s so versatile. It can get rained and snowed on, and it’s incredibly wind-resistant (after all, it’s made for fly fishing). It’s also quite warm but not very thick, so I wear it often on flights where the A/C is blasting non-stop.

The sleeves of my other two favorite jackets, all of which have been washed the same number of times (zero). Photo: Suzie Dundas

Ultimately, though, the best compliment I can give this jacket is that it’s still in great shape, despite extremely heavy use. That’s partially due to the use of ripstop and durable fabrics, as well as smart features like abrasion-resistant pads under each cuff. When I compare the sleeves of the PRO Insulated Jacket to the sleeves of my other packable down jackets, it’s clear that the others are showing way more wear. Granted, the Orvis hoodie is a slightly darker color, but it’s clear that it’s just not holding as much dirt as the others (and the black abrasion panel certainly helps).

I’ve worn it in the most extreme conditions

Despite being a snowboarder and a person who lives in a ski town, I’m always cold. Seriously – when it drops below 50 degrees F, I need double socks. So for me, it’s extra impressive that I find the Pro Insulated Hoodie to be quite toasty. And because of that, I’ve felt comfortable wearing it in all kinds of situations

While trekking through snow on Mount Whitney, CA

My PRO Insulated Hoodie got my through whipping winds and midnight hiking on Mount Whitney, the highest point in the Lower 48. Photo: Suzie Dundas

It’s the highest point in the Lower 48 and got me through a 15-hour hike to 14,000 feet above sea level (that we started in whipping wind at 12 AM).

While fly fishing in southern Patagonia

I caught (and quickly released) my first fish in Patagonia, and there’s no way to say it wasn’t because of my hoodie. Photo: Suzie Dundas

Honestly, I barely even knew it was windy when I was wearing this hoodie – and that’s saying quite a bit, considering I was in Patagonia.

Through tiny towns on northern Vancouver Island, BC

Photo: Suzie Dundas

When you’re on coastlines in northern British Columbia, having a waterproof and windproof jacket is a must.

The top features that made me love the PRO Insulated JacketThe Orvis Pro Insulated Hoodie packs into an actually useful travel or camping pillow. Suzie DundasThumb loops are more useful for buyers with longer arms (like me). Photo: Suzie DundasChin protector: I often wear this jacket all the way zipped up, and thanks to a soft fleece panel on the inside of the zipper, it doesn’t rub or scratch against my face.Giant pockets: In addition to two zippered hand pockets (lined with warm fleece), there’s also an exterior pocket on the left chest and an interior pocket on the right chest. All the pockets are huge. Each can easily hold several cell phones, and the right chest pocket runs the length of the jacket.It’s packable: While I usually end up wearing the Pro Insulated Hoodie on planes, there’s a huge perk for people who don’t: it packs into the aforementioned right chest pocket, creating a decent-sized travel pillow. I’ve used it quite a bit while camping or in hotels when I needed an extra pillow to put between my knees while sleeping after a few active days of hiking or biking.A drawstring hood and hem: The Pro Jacket does a pretty good job of preventing wind chill, but it does a great job when you cinch the adjustable drawstrings. My hat has stayed put in 30 MPH winds when secured tightly under the hoodInternal side panels: Though you can’t see them on the outside if you turn the jacket inside out, you’ll see two grey side panels. They both help eliminate bulk under your arms and provide extra airflow and temperature regulation. According to the product listing, it’s called “Polartec® Alpha” and was designed for “special ops teams.” I’m not sure if that’s impressive or not, but it has kept me warm and non-sweaty in quite a wide range of temperatures.Thumb loops, not holes: The Pro Insulated Hoodie has internal thumb loops to keep it in place under gloves, rather than holes in the cuffs. They’re far easier to use and more comfortable for anyone with long arms (like me).Sizing and reviews

It’s my go-to travel jacket (and yes, I used an empty seat to fly home with a box of donuts). Photo: Suzie Dundas

I’m not the only person who loves this packable hoodie — the men’s version has a rating of 4.9 out of five stars (and more than 330 reviews), while the women’s version has fewer reviews (51), but an equally impressive 4.8-star rating. That means most people think most everything about the jacket is great, including the sizing.

The sizing is pretty standard, and with the drawstring hem, it’s okay if it ends up bein a little big on you. I’m 5’7″ and about 135 pounds, which is a size small in most brands. However, Orvis generally runs a little larger and less fitted than other outdoor brands, so I probably could have sized down to an XS. That said, I have a long torso and broad shoulders, and I like my jackets with plenty of room to layer, so I think a small was the right choice. So my advice would be to buy your regular size if you want a comfortable fit, and buy a size down if you like a more fitted, chic look. You can always exchange the size (or return it) for free.

It only comes in XS to XL, but according to the Orvis size chart, that should cover buyers who wear anywhere between a size 4 and size 20 for women, or a size 34-52 for men. Men also have the option of buying an XXL, which could work as an option for female buyers looking for larger sizes.

Costs and downsides

I put “costs” and “downsides” in the same category as that’s really the only reason to hesitate to give it a try. It’s not as expensive as some other outdoor brands, but at $249, it’s certainly not cheap. It also doesn’t tend to go on sale very often, probably because Orvis knows it’ll always be a crowd favorite. I feel as though I’ve gotten my money’s worth out of it, but if you’re price-conscious, you may be able to find one on a used gear website like Poshmark, or maybe try their luck at an Orvis store, on the off-chance one is marked down or on the return rack. 

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This Is the Most Durable and Dependable Down Jacket on the Market

For mountain travelers, nothing signifies legitimacy and belonging moreso than a good puffy jacket. Puffers are as stylish among those in the outdoors community as they are functional, but buying the right puffer is tricky. Lightly filled puffers often fall into the dreaded “athleisure” category, and therefore aren’t functional for much beyond trips to the grocery store and happy hour at the local pub. On the other hand, heavily-filled options often leave the wearer waddling down the trail like a displaced penguin, swishing their arms T-Rex style even as the lower half of their body struggles to maintain its composure. The key to the perfect everyday puffer is finding an ideal balance between the two. That balance lies in the Cotopaxi Fuego down jacket.

Shopping for a packable travel jacket? Check out Matador’s detailed reviews: These Are The Best Packable Travel Jackets On The Market The Orvis Pro Insulated Hoody is a Go-Everywhere Jacket That Turns Into a Travel Pillow  This Packable Rain Jacket Will Keep You Bone Dry, Even In Torrential Rain Patagonia’s Houdini® Air Jacket Is The Perfect Packable Light Jacket Patagonia’s Micro Puff Hoody Is Perfect For Winter Travels Arc’Teryx Made The World’s Most Packable Puffy Jacket

We hope you love the Cotopaxi Fuego down jacket! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

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Finally, a puffy jacket versatile enough for almost all occasionsPhoto: Alisha WengerPhoto: Alisha WengerPhoto: Alisha WengerPhoto: Alisha WengerPhoto: Alisha Wenger

The first hints of fall — the leaves changing colors, cool mornings that require a jacket when taking the dog out, the inevitable arrival of nutmeg and pumpkin spice to coffee menus — are widely welcomed. Fall means relief from blisteringly hot days. It means that the year’s best holidays are right around the corner. And, perhaps most importantly, fall means that it’s finally puffy jacket season. I got a Cotopaxi Fuego down jacket this year just as the seasons began to change, and over the past month I’ve taken it on multiple hikes, a couple of overnights in the high country, and worn it around town on daily errands.

The Fuego, available in men’s and women’s options and with or without a hood (there’s also a sleeveless vest option), is water-resistant and excellent at keeping both itself and the wearer dry. Rain crept in on me during a recent hike on Colorado’s Grand Mesa and, with the hood on, I felt no discomfort from the water or the crisp fall air. In Colorado, unpredictable weather often appears in the afternoon, especially at high altitudes. Over my time wearing the Cotopaxi Fuego down jacket, I’ve come to rely on its durability for daily use, including embarking on chilly camping expeditions. It’s become my daily wear for casual activities like early-morning walks and evening porch beer sessions.

Cotopaxi Fuego down jacket specs

Being a Coloradan, I love a good puffy jacket. Though I don’t like jackets that are too puffy. The Cotopaxi Fuego down jacket is ideal because it packs optimized warmth with RDS-certified, responsibly-sourced 800-fill goose down. Still, the jacket fits like any other jacket.  It’s not bulgy or awkward, and when you sit in a car, bus, train, or plane, it won’t inflate and become uncomfortable. You can also feel good knowing that your purchase supports ethical down companies who properly care for, and don’t harm, the animals from which the down comes.

Puffy jackets are known for the “swish” sound the arms make as you walk, caused by the nylon rubbing together on the arms and the wearer’s side. I came to appreciate the noise of my Fuego, knowing that the Polartec Alpha underarm insulation was doing its job. My biggest concern when choosing the Fuego was that the nylon would rip after being grazed by a tree branch protruding over a trail or something of the like. However, I’ve yet to tear the jacket thanks to the DWR-finished ripstop nylon shell.

Two zippered pockets come on the front of the jacket, with a hood on the back. My only complaint, albeit a small one, with the Fuego is that the hood seems a better fit for a size XL (I wear a Small or Medium-sized jacket). When moving in a hurry — say, while running down a trail or following my dog as he quickly follows a scent along the riverbank near our house — it tends to fall over my eyes. It’s easy to pull back, and only happens at higher rates of speed, but the hood is large enough that I could easily wear it over my ski helmet (non-hooded Fuego jackets are available). That could prove useful during a spring ski day when the full parka isn’t necessary, I suppose.

The elastic binding on the bottom of the jacket allows it to tighten around my waist to prevent cold air and moisture from entering. This proved incredibly beneficial on colder evenings around the campfire. When compared with other puffy jackets and winter coats, the binding proved to be more effective than the others without sacrificing comfort. The Fuego also includes an elastic binding on the wrists and hood. The jacket weighs 14 ounces and comes with a stuff bag for easy storage in a backpack or suitcase. A vest option is available to use as a base layer or for days that are cool but not cold.

The Cotopaxi Fuego looks as good as it functions

Cotopaxi’s trademark tri-colored stripes cross over the jacket’s chest. I opted for black with Pacific Stripes (three shades of blue ranging from dark to light), but many color schemes are available. The brand offers lifetime repairs and a lifetime warranty, with the option for users to trade in their used jacket in exchange for a gift card once they feel it’s surpassed its useful life. I feel good supporting Cotopaxi because of its rigid sustainability standards and focus on repair and reuse rather than discarding.

Style-wise, my favorite aspect of the Fuego down jacket is that it fits like my favorite hoody. It isn’t bulgy and doesn’t protrude below my waist as a ski jacket does. I feel confident wearing it out to dinner, even in more formal settings (yes, the Fuego does in fact double as the Colorado tuxedo), or to happy hour with friends – even if that happy hour immediately follows a hike or bike ride. The jacket will be my backup for when ski days turn warmer than expected and my full shell isn’t necessary, and will serve as my travel companion from fall through spring each year going forward. Of the five jackets in my closet, the Cotopaxi Fuego immediately became my go-to. [mn-post-ender}

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Buy Now – Women’s Vest

Here’s Your Checklist for a Romantic Lesbian-Friendly Key West Getaway

While Key West is known for being one of the most queer-friendly cities for nightlife, entertainment, and cuisine in the US, there are also plenty of opportunities for enjoying some romantic downtime with your significant other.

Whether you’re on your honeymoon, celebrating an anniversary, or just need some days away with your honey, this checklist has all you need to plan your next getaway to the Conch Republic.

Where to stay

Alexander’s Guest House. Photo: Nick Doll Photography

From resorts to hotels to guesthouses, romantic-ready accommodations are abundant in Key West. Choose from one of the following for some sweet R&R.

Silver Palms Inn: If you ever had the pleasure of booking a room at the lesbian-owned and -operated Pearl’s Guesthouse in its heyday, you’ll be pleased with a stay at the Silver Palms Inn, run by former Pearl’s manager Mey Espinoza. Enjoy the tropical vibes in the delightful guestrooms (or outside by the pool), and make sure to rent one of their colorful bikes to aid in your Key West exploration.Alexander’s Guesthouse: One of the most LGBTQ+ friendly lodgings in Key West (and annual host hotel for WomenFest), Alexander’s Guesthouse is a quiet little oasis you’ll love making memories in. This 21+, conch-style home features a relaxing pool, Jacuzzi, lending library, and two clothing-optional sundecks because, hey, vacation!Pier House Resort & Spa: Impress your beloved with a room or suite at this luxury resort. It’s got everything you need for a romantic getaway, from a private beach to a poolside bar, an entertainment center, multiple onsite restaurants, and, of course, The Spa at Pier House where you can both get pampered with a slew of signature treatments.Kimpton Key West: For a deliciously relaxed vibe, check into the Kimpton Key West. Try a room at the boutique, adults-only Ridley House, or opt for one of the more private Winslow Bungalows, and make sure to enjoy the amenities including pools, bikes, and yoga mats — all included.Starting your mornings right

Photo: Farknot Architect/Shutterstock

Whether it’s a coffee, smoothie, or snack (or all of the above — we won’t judge), you’ll want some sustenance to fuel your Key West adventures. Here’s where to find it.

The Koffie House: Located inside one of the oldest brick houses in Key West, this health-conscious coffee shop offers a vegetarian and vegan-friendly food menu alongside coffee and espresso drinks, cold-pressed juices, teas, and smoothies.Cuban Coffee Queen: This quirky Cuban cafe has three locations: a walk-up on the waterfront for couples on the go, one at the Clinton Square Market, and a newer location near Duval Street with a dine-in option. All serve breakfast and lunch as well as Cuban-inspired snacks, energizing café con leche, and other Cuban coffee drinks, smoothies, and more.Outdoor adventures

Photo: Varina C/Shutterstock

With so many things to do in the great outdoors, those fresh sea breezes will start to feel like your second skin in Key West. Get your heart pumping on, under, and even above the water, or just kick back and relax while sightseeing.

Sunset Watersports: Experience everything Key West’s outdoors has to offer with Sunset Watersports. Book a tour of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary by jet ski, snorkel North America’s only living coral barrier reef, soar to new heights by parasail, or kayak your way through mangroves — and leave with lasting memories.Key West Conch Train: For something more low-key, hop aboard the charming Key West Conch Train. Operating since 1985, this world-famous train takes guests on a 75-minute tour of Old Key West with multiple stops along the way — a great option for seeing the island without too much walking.Dry Tortugas National Park: Impress your significant other with an all-day adventure at Dry Tortugas National Park. Explore historic Fort Jefferson; enjoy snorkeling to view coral reefs, fish, and other sea animals; go bird watching; or just spend time on the beach. Getting there is an adventure in itself — the park is only accessible by boat or seaplane.Indoor entertainment

Photo: Mike Freas/Florida Keys News Bureau

If you need a respite from the heat or happen to hit a rain day, take it inside and get some culture while you’re at it.

Tropic Cinema: This Art Deco-inspired theater shows indie, classic, and international films. Check their calendar while you’re in town for info on special events, including talks with directors, concerts, and more.Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory: There’s a bit of magic in being in a room filled with hundreds of delicate butterflies hovering and swooping all around you. Enjoy the quiet calm of this small conservatory together, where you’ll also see colorful birds and an array of flowering plants.Tennessee Williams Museum: Tennessee Williams (of A Streetcar Named Desire fame) made Key West his home for over 30 years. Stop in and learn more about one of the first openly gay American playwrights at this museum housing first-edition plays, photographs, and other artifacts.Peruse (and potentially purchase) local art: Key West is a haven for artists of all kinds. Pop into one of the many local galleries, including Art on Duval, 7 Artists & Friends, and The Studios of Key West, for the chance to snag some original souvenir art.Savoring a romantic sunset

Photo: Bob Krist/Florida Keys News Bureau

Visitors come from all over to catch the Key West sunset. Here are the best ways to do it.

Venus Charters: If you’re interested in stepping off the main island, hop aboard a Venus Charters private sunset cruise. This lesbian-owned charter boat company will take you and your significant other out to sea for one truly unforgettable sunset. Pack a picnic and something bubbly to toast with!Mallory Square’s Sunset Celebration: For first-timers in Key West, Mallory Square’s Sunset Celebration is a must. This daily event features live music, entertainment (think high-wire acts, jugglers, etc.), food and vendors, and unobstructed views of the sun sinking into the Gulf.Fort Zachary Taylor Historic Park: The southernmost state park in the continental US is home to a well-preserved pre-Civil War fort, hiking and biking trails, and a nice stretch of beach from which to quietly take in the sunset. It’s a great alternative for those who’d rather end the day with their toes in the sand.Ending the night right

Photo: Mike Freas/Florida Keys News Bureau

After a full day of exciting adventures inside or out, it’s time to put that cherry on top and enjoy the Key West nightlife.

Dinner at Latitudes: If you’re after a romantic evening overlooking the sea, book a table at award-winning Latitudes. This elegant restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, but it truly sparkles at sunset and beyond.Better Than Sex Dessert Restaurant: For a sweet way to end your evening, pop into this intimate, dessert-centered spot. Get close at your private table and enjoy treats with risqué monikers (Kinky-er Cream Pie, anyone?) alongside wine, beer, or cocktails to wind down for the night.LaTeDa Cabaret: If you’re not ready for the night to end, catch a lively show at the ever-popular LaTeDa Cabaret. Pop in for a nightcap at the piano bar, or book tickets in advance for the best drag cabaret in the Keys — either way, you can’t go wrong!

Now that we’ve whet your appetite for Key West romance, it’s time to plan your getaway.

This Bourbon-Focused River Cruise Combines Whiskey With Paddleboat Charm

A traditional sternwheeler cruise along the meandering Ohio and Mississippi Rivers offers a glimpse into the era when the Mississippi River was the western frontier of the United States. The small towns that sprung up along the rivers were far removed from the urban cities of the east, and the great rivers were the main means of transportation.

Those peak years of transport and life along the river are long past. Still, there is something immensely appealing about traveling the rivers on slow-moving, flat-bottom boats with traditional Victorian gingerbread trim.

Photo: American Queen Voyages / www.AQVoyages.com

My husband and I recently did just that on a nine-day, bourbon-themed cruise aboard American Countess, a classic riverboat with twin red paddlewheels gracing the stern. Along the way, we paid day-long visits to four small cities in Kentucky, as well as at one of Mark Twain’s favorite river towns, Cape Girardeau in Missouri, and docked just steps away from Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis.

The American Countess is the newest boat among the fleet operated by American Queen Voyages, and the itinerary shows just how great an experience an all-American river cruise can be.

The pre-cruise adventure in Louisville

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Each of the itineraries with American Queen Voyages begins with a complimentary pre-cruise night at a distinctive hotel in the departure city. We flew into Louisville mid-afternoon and made our way to The Brown Hotel, which was built in the early 1900s by J. Graham Brown, a flamboyant millionaire lumberman and capitalist.

2023 marks The Brown’s 100th anniversary. It’s the home of the hot brown, a distinctive breakfast offered piping hot in a mini-skillet. Now served throughout the day, a hot brown is an open-face turkey sandwich loaded with bacon, tomatoes, and mornay sauce, and has been a Louisville tradition since it was created in 1926 by hotel chef Fred Schmidt. When we arrived at the hotel, we were promptly welcomed by cruise staff, assigned a room, and briefed on the following day’s embarkation procedures. Luggage transfers to our cabin and bus transportation to the American Countess were scheduled by the cruise line. Until the following afternoon, passengers were free to explore Louisville any way they chose.

The city is filled with Southern charm and hospitality, and there is much to see — from breweries and bourbon tastings to Churchill Downs and the Louisville Slugger baseball bat factory, Museum Row, 4th Street Live, charming shops, distinctive restaurants, the Muhammed Ali Center, and the wonderful Church of the Assumption.

The cruise line offers two Louisville excursions for an additional fee: a private backstretch tour of Churchill Downs, and a bourbon tour at the legendary Castle and Key Distillery and gardens.

The real cruise begins

Photo: American Queen Voyages / www.AQVoyages.com

Stepping aboard the classic riverboat with its twin paddlewheels gracing the stern, we were greeted by crew members who directed us to our cabin and encouraged us to join other passengers in the spacious lounge for a welcome cocktail – bourbon was a spotlight, of course, with other options like Champagne also readily available.

The boat left the dock at 4:30 PM, following the official “All Aboard” whistle. Although the view of the bow was exciting as the lines were hauled and the gangplank hoisted back into position, I couldn’t resist drifting toward the stern, drawn by the turning of the immense paddlewheels. The vessel has four diesel-electric generators that operate the rudder propellers and bow thrusters. Even though this vessel isn’t fueled by steam like paddle boats were in the past, the wheels provide part of the propulsion, and the rhythmic lap of the paddles against the water is mesmerizing.

Photo: American Queen Voyages / www.AQVoyages.com0.9.142

Take note: this vessel is a boat and not a ship. The exterior is in the style of a traditional American riverboat, with a gleaming white exterior, arches, and railings, adorned by classic red horizontal stripes and red paddlewheels. The main floor deck, also red, denotes a no-go zone for passengers while underway. Decks 2 and 3 are home to passenger cabins as well as public spaces both inside and out. Cabin balconies on Deck 2 are private, with two chairs and a small table, and semi-private verandas on Deck 3 have gated seating areas, open to a public walking/jogging path that encircles the boat.

Photo: American Queen Voyages / www.AQVoyages.com

On both Decks 2 and 3, comfortable white rocking chairs afford passengers a view of the passing shoreline when the weather is clear and the winds are light. Additional seating is available on the open upper deck, and a smattering of umbrellas offers shade.

Before the boat became the American Countess, it was the Kanesville Queen, a casino boat originally built in 1995. In a complete top-to-bottom renovation inside and out, 60 feet in length was added and the casino removed. Now, instead of gaming tables, guests gather in the expansive main salon with its traditional paneled bar, a beautiful theater, and a full-width dining room that has views to both port and starboard.

Photo: American Queen Voyages / www.AQVoyages.com

The Countess feels somewhat like a boutique hotel, with 123 passenger cabins, (most suited for two passengers). The décor is pleasantly contemporary with a tasteful, subdued color scheme, well-chosen art and sculptures, and fresh floral arrangements in all public spaces and on all dining tables. While an ocean-going cruise ship might have multiple pools, dining spaces, and attractions for all ages, river cruising offers a leisurely pace, intimate spaces, and a focus on the people one meets and the small towns and scenery along the route.

Photo: American Queen Voyages / www.AQVoyages.com

The floor plan of the Countess clusters public spaces – theater, guest services desk, a small shop, and the curving staircase – around the boat’s main bar on Deck 1. Called the Grand Lobby, this is where passengers can spontaneously gather for cocktails and conversation, where trivia games and contests are held, and where musicians play dance music after dinner. The floor-to-ceiling windows that run the length of the space perfectly frame the passing river vistas.

Tucked into a space adjacent to the grand staircase is a baby grand piano that’s used for impromptu singalongs, and where the ship’s musicians get together for informal jazz performances.

Photo: American Queen Voyages / www.AQVoyages.com

The Grand Lobby Bar is open most days from 11 AM until the last guests are ready to say goodnight. Double doors adjacent to the bar allow access to the theater, a multi-level space that’s perfect for port talks, cooking demonstrations, afternoon movies, or informative presentations. For this itinerary, special guest Michael Veach, a noted bourbon historian and member of the Bourbon Hall of Fame, held court with several presentations and tastings for passengers who were eager to learn about bourbon’s history and how the spirit is made.

Photo: American Queen Voyages / www.AQVoyages.com

Behind the Grand Lobby is the boat’s full-width dining room, featuring white-clothed tables for two or for a group, with gourmet fare at breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The more casual River Grill, one deck above and far astern, offers buffet service for breakfast and lunch, a variety of sandwiches, and prime rib as well as other selected entrees for dinner each evening. It’s a popular alternative to the main dining room. There is a small bar as well, where guests may enjoy a view of the turning paddlewheels while the boat is underway. In port, a shaded patio invites outdoor lounging and dining.

Perks Coffee Room, near the bow, is open 24 hours a day, with fresh coffee, pastries or fresh-from-the-oven cookies, and a soft ice cream machine with a variety of toppings. A small fitness center is neatly tucked into space on the opposite forward side of Deck 1.

Photo: American Queen Voyages / www.AQVoyages.com

Other comfortable guest spaces include a well-stocked library with plush, comfortable seating, as well as a card and games room outfitted with chess, checkers, backgammon, and card tables with leather chairs and an assortment of puzzles. One deck above, another hideaway is the Chart Room, where passengers can study route maps and immerse themselves in nautical lore and riverboat stories.

Photo: American Queen Voyages / www.AQVoyages.com

Dinner, however, is the main event. On our sailing, there were two seatings each evening: dinner at 5:15, followed by showtime in the theater at 9, or the schedule in reverse with a 6:30 theater call, followed by late-seating dinner at 7:45.

A company defining the modern American river cruise

Photo: American Queen Voyages / www.AQVoyages.com

In an interview with Cindy D’Aoust, who assumed duties as the new president of American Queen Voyages in January 2023, she emphasized her goal of “simplicity, affordability, and convenience” for the passenger river cruising experience.

Vice president of marketing Angela Composto, who is also new to the company, notes that the cruise line intends to build new relationships with the towns along their routes and has plans in the works, primarily in the area of food and beverage service, that are designed to “surprise and delight” passengers.

The presence of American Queen Voyages culinary ambassador Regina Charboneau, affectionately known as the biscuit queen of Natchez and a well-known cookbook author, and noted restaurateur Dickie Brennan, of The Bourbon House and other iconic restaurants in New Orleans, on this cruise did exactly that.

Charboneau has added some of her Southern specialties like shrimp and grits, deep-fried frog legs, and her biscuits while tweaking traditional favorites like lobster and duck. Her goal is to introduce regional specialties whenever possible on the various itineraries, and to add customer favorites throughout the fleet.

On-board entertainment

Cruise director Emma Harper teamed with assistant cruise directors Nick McCarthy and Michael Nicholas to present passengers with varied entertainment every day. In addition to scheduled movies, games, and onboard
quiz shows, the talented and the American Countess Ensemble and Show Band puts on Broadway-worthy productions featuring energetic and eclectic song and dance numbers – from “Riversong,” a musical experience with a variety of river-inspired songs, to a vocal collection of blues and jazz tunes. Another show features country favorites, and yet another, “Just Go to the Movies,” showcases big screen favorites.

There were passenger team events like trivia or name that tune, cocktail and bourbon tastings, afternoon movies in the theater, a cooking show presented by the Charboneau and Brennan, bourbon lectures and tastings by Veach, and destination talks prior to each port call.

McCarthy serves as the cruise “riverlorian” in addition to being a featured performer. With daily lectures that offer background information and little-known facts about the rivers and their history, these Riverlorian presentations were consistently some of the best-attended special events of the cruise.

Staff and Crew

Unlike officers on large ships who tend to remain a bit aloof and distant, Captain Scott Dunham was not merely introduced at a welcome reception, but rather made an effort to greet everyone who wanted to shake his hand. On subsequent days, he would routinely stop to chat with passengers.

Photo: American Queen Voyages / www.AQVoyages.com

Several pilot house tours were scheduled, open to anyone interested in seeing the “nerve center” of this riverboat. The tours allow passengers to see what’s involved in maneuvering a modern riverboat along the waterway. The boat’s captain and pilot man the pilot house in alternating four-hour shifts around the clock.

Exploring the rivers one small town at a time

AQSC Christening of American Countess
A general view of the atmosphere during the christening of the American Countess at Mardi Gras World on March 21, 2021 in New Orleans, LA. (Josh Brasted for AQSC)

While days at sea may represent an almost equal appeal to cruise passengers as the ports visited, river cruising is mostly about the cities along the way. Much of the actual river travel is done at night. There’s a wealth of shore excursions in the small towns along the river, but there are onboard activities even while the boat is at rest in a port.

American Queen Voyages has a fleet of contracted buses and drivers. The buses mimic each cruise itinerary via highway routes, and they meet at the dock each morning to whisk passengers from the boat to a daily round of complimentary hop on-hop off destinations. Local guides typically join each bus to offer insights about the history and attractions of each locale. Travelers are free to visit as many of the stops as they wish, and spend as much time as they wish at each, and are cautioned about the last run of the bus each day (the boat doesn’t wait for late passengers).

On this particular itinerary, each stop provided something entirely different.

Brandenburg, Kentucky

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Named after a local barkeep and landowner rather than the German city of the same name, historic Brandenburg prospered as an early American trade center, and there’s evidence of Native American settlements in the area dating back at least 10,000 years ago.

Here, a four-hour tour highlighting the life of Abraham Lincoln, who hailed from this area, is a prime excursion offered at no charge for cruise passengers. The tour includes a stop at the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park, an impressive memorial building set upon park-like grounds with a replica of the Lincoln family’s humble one-room cabin and a natural spring that has been in use for well over a century.

The tour also stopped in Hodgenville to visit the Lincoln Museum, which occupies a prime location on the town square. Here, Lincoln look-alike dressed in period attire recited parts of the Gettysburg Address and explained some of the reasons behind Lincoln’s actions during the Civil War.
Those who chose the premium tour in Brandenburg also took a hands-on pottery class at PG Studio Arts Center.

Owensboro, Kentucky

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Owensboro is the self-proclaimed “Barbecue Capital of the World,” with a hometown festival scheduled in May that attracts tens of thousands of international visitors to the town of 60,000 people. It’s also sometimes known as Kentucky’s Festival City, with at least six other festivals throughout the year.

During the 19th Century, there were 18 distilleries located in Daviess County, but today only three are left. Cruisers can visit Green River Distillery, the tenth bourbon distillery licensed in Kentucky, for a tour and tasting.

Other stops on the cruise bus route include the Western Kentucky Botanical Gardens with the world’s tallest Sassafras tree (100 feet in height with a trunk that measures 21 feet around), the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art, Smothers Park, the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and St. Stephen Cathedral.

Henderson, Kentucky

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Here, the premium experience for $129 per person was a bourbon tasting paired with small dishes of Southern comfort food at Hometown Roots. Started by Henderson-born Casey Todd, the restaurant focuses on local ingredients and has a grow wall filled with Bibb lettuce.

Drinks included an old fashioned cocktail made with Buffalo Trace and three other distinctive brands of Kentucky bourbon, all accompanied by plates from chef Shawna Harrington: deep-fried Brussels sprouts, a deviled egg duo including one deep-fried version, pimento cheese fritters, and cornbread served in a miniature cast iron skillet and topped with a whopping scoop of soft butter.

Paducah, Kentucky

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The premium experience in Paducah, “Check-In Along the Chitlin Trail,” is $99 per person. That check-in is at a large frame house with a sign above the front porch that simply reads Hotel Metropolitan. Except that it stands almost alone on its block today, there wouldn’t be much to distinguish it from other homes in town. But in the early 1900s, this house was a well-known safe haven for Black musicians, performers, and travelers who were denied room and board at many places in the South during segregation and Jim Crow. The Metropolitan Hotel was one of the sites listed in The Green Book, a travel guide published between 1936 and 1967. It identified businesses that would accept Black customers.

B.B. King, Billie Holiday, Ike and Tina Turner, Louis Armstrong, Ray Charles, Thurgood Marshall, Ella Fitzgerald, the Harlem Globetrotters, and many others have found sanctuary in this simple home-like setting with 11 bedrooms. Today, it has been totally restored, and is run by a non-profit organization that seeks to preserve the history of the hotel and its operator.

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Other noteworthy stops in Paducah include the National Quilt Museum and, depending on the day and time of year, the Saturday Farmers Market. Silent Brigade Distillery, the Lloyd Tilghman house, Paducah Railroad Museum, and the River Discovery Center are other options along the bus route. Walking back, be sure to catch the stunning murals by Robert Dafford that capture Paducah’s rich history.

Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Photo: photo.eccles / Shutterstock

After departing Paducah late in the afternoon, we followed the Ohio River to where it flows into the Mississippi River near Cairo, Illinois. Turning to follow the mighty Mississippi’s course upstream at that point, we were scheduled to arrive at historic Cape Girardeau at approximately 8 AM.

Cape Girardeau is said to have been one of Mark Twain’s favorite towns, and I was immediately enthralled by its quaint appeal. Even though it was Sunday and many of the shops and businesses were closed, Cape Girardeau exudes charm. The Mississippi River Tales Mural stretches along the interior of the flood wall, while on the river side, a “Welcome to Cape Girardeau, Missouri” mural leaves no doubt about where you are.

We spent most of our allotted shore time at the Crisp Museum on the campus of Southeast Missouri State University, first watching a film about the Mississippian era, then strolling through the museum’s historical art and archeological collections. Some pieces are estimated to be 15,000 years old.

Other stops in Cape Girardeau include Old St. Vincent’s Church, built in 1850s English Gothic Revival Style; the Cape River Heritage Center; and Capaha Rose Garden — Cape Girardeau was once known as the “City of Roses.”

St. Louis, Missouri

Photo: f11photo / Shutterstock

Our final day of cruising the Mississippi brought us to St. Louis, with a scheduled arrival time of noon. The 600-feet-tall Arch became visible before we reached the city. Gateway Arch National Park and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, known as the Old Cathedral, are just steps away from the riverboat docking point. Again, the fleet of buses awaited us at the pier and whisked us to the sights we chose to visit in St. Louis. My husband chose to hop off at the Arch, to watch the award-winning film of its construction and walk around Gateway Park. I rode on through the city, to enjoy the beauty of the celebrated mosaics at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis.

There are so many things to do in St. Louis that a few hours can in no way do the city justice, but the options available to riverboat cruisers are great ones, including the National Blues Museum, the Economy Museum, and the Missouri History Museum.

Departure from St. Louis was scheduled for 6 PM, and I joined fellow passengers out on the decks of American Countess to celebrate the final evening. One more dinner awaited us, then a final musical show by the ship’s show band, and a few more libations shared with newfound friends.

More like thisCruisesThis Over-the-Top River Cruise Is the All-American Trip You Need To Take

Where To Play, Eat, and Stay in Redding, California’s Sunniest City

When you think of an adrenaline-pumping, outdoor lover’s dream destination, you probably don’t think of Redding, California — but you should. In Northern California, just south of the Oregon border, Redding is an up-and-coming outdoors destination that’s quickly becoming known for having endless places to hike, bike, kayak, and fish — and that’s just when the weather’s warm.

Known as California’s sunniest city, Redding experiences over 300 sunny days a year. The climate is dry and mild for most of the year. During the summer months, temperatures can swell to over 100 degrees, but the heat doesn’t stop the local community from getting outside and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Visitors might spend the day on the Sacramento River, hiking, or mountain biking when the sun is shining. During winter, layer up and try sports like skiing at Mount Shasta or snowshoeing at Lassen National Park.

From all things outdoors to where to fuel up and rest your head when you visit, these are the best things to do in Redding.

Things to do in ReddingHelicopter tours with Air Shasta

Photo: Michelle Steinhardt

Air Shasta offers tailor-made helicopter tours highlighting some of Redding’s best attractions. Watching the stunning scenery unfold before you from the air is like opening a new present every few minutes. A tour may include views of iconic attractions such as the Sundial Bridge, the winding Sacramento River, the Shasta Bally mountain, and the famous three Shastas (Mount Shasta, Shasta Dam, and Lake Shasta).

The highlights tour is just one of many options for those eager to see Redding from an aerial perspective. Air Shasta can also create custom tours, such as heli-hiking to the Trinity Alps an hour northwest of Redding.

Air Shasta: 3770 Flight Ave, Redding, CA 96002

E-biking

Photo: Redding Bikeshare/Shasta Living Streets

Downtown Redding created a bike-friendly environment with dedicated bike lanes that provide e-bike access to disadvantaged groups while encouraging tourism. As a result, the Redding bike culture is thriving, all while reducing carbon emissions.

Visitors can take a leisurely guided e-bike tour with Shasta Living Streets along the Sacramento River, up to Shasta Dam, or customize their own tour. To encourage the use of bikes in the area, the Bike Depot, a gathering place with a restaurant, art murals by Mona Caron, and bike maintenance stations, is set to open in 2024.

Shasta Living Streets: 1313 California Street Redding, CA 96001

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

Photo: Visit Redding

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area is a massive area that’s part of the National Park Service and has 70 miles of trails, four waterfalls, a visitor’s center, and a lake large enough for sailing. The City of Redding intentionally flooded Whiskeytown in 1962 after completing the Whiskeytown Dam. As a result, Whiskeytown Lake was created.

Popular activities on the pristine lake include fishing, boating, water skiing, and scuba diving to explore the remnants of the town below. Whiskeytown Lake also has a beach for those who prefer to admire the crystal-clear water from afar. The once lush area is starting to grow back after the devastating 2018 Carr fire.

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area: Whiskeytown, CA 96095

Lake Shasta Caverns tour

Photo: Visit Redding

Above Lake Shasta is the Lake Shasta Caverns, a National Natural Landmark hiding 200 million year old stalagmites and stalactites. The rock formations are infused with crystals that sparkle in the light. The experience includes a 15-minute scenic ride across Lake Shasta, a bus ride up 800 feet to the entrance, and a walk through the caverns.

For the main attraction, visitors head through the tunnel entrance and ascend 621 stairs, gaining 200 feet in elevation to experience 38 different rock formations. The “cathedral” stands out with its floor-to-ceiling rock formations that shimmer in the light. The caverns do not take reservations, but you can reserve the cave for a private event.

Lake Shasta Caverns: 20359 Shasta Caverns Rd, Lakehead, CA 96051

Fly fishing

Photo: Michelle Steinhardt

Forbes and Field & Stream magazines have named Redding one of North America’s top 10 trout-fishing towns because of the large blue-ribbon trout and steelhead in the area. To enhance the success of the fish, only cold water is released from Shasta Dam, which creates ideal fishing conditions.

Spend the day fly fishing on the lower Sacramento River with experts from The Fly Shop. The shop has been offering guided fly fishing tours in the area since 1978. Many guides grew up fly fishing in the area and are experts on the local conditions. As you float down the lower Sacramento River, you’ll pass under the Sundial Bridge, see numerous species of birds, and be surrounded by beautiful views.

The Fly Shop: 4140 Churn Creek Rd, Redding, CA 96002

Wine tasting at New Clairvaux Vineyard Tasting Room

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The grapes grown at the New Clairvaux vineyard date back to a Spanish land grant in 1843. Trappist cistercian monks purchased some of that land and currently live and work on it. They take extreme pride in creating the highest quality grape to honor God.

New Clairvaux created a thriving partnership between the monks and Aimée Sunseri, a fifth-generation winemaker and viticulturist. Together, New Clairvaux won the 2023 coveted Golden Bear Award. Stop into New Clairvaux’s tasting room in downtown Redding and experience their award-winning wine.

New Clairvaux Vineyard Tasting Room: 1355 Butte St, Redding, CA 96001

Old Shasta

Photo: Michelle Steinhardt

Devastated by two fires and the end of the Gold Rush era, Old Shasta remains from what was once a bustling area in the late 1840s and early 1850s. Today, visitors can see the outline of several old brick buildings, a courthouse, a cemetery, and a few stores.

Turtle Bay Exploration Park

Photo: Visit Redding

Turtle Bay Exploration Park, located along the Sacramento River, pays homage to the native western pond turtles that inhabited the area through its namesake. The 300-acre family-friendly development includes a museum, botanical gardens, wildlife exhibits, and the Sundial Bridge. The park is designed to promote the natural and cultural history of the area, as well as provide an introduction to the Wintu Native American People.

A visit would not be complete without partaking in one of the behind the scenes wildlife experiences. Guests can meet and feed Timber, a 50-pound beaver. Figuratively speaking, Timber is a people person who’s happy to climb into your lap as you feed him kale and apples. Gucci, an opossum, is also available for a wildlife encounter.

Turtle Bay Exploration Park: 844 Sundial Bridge Drive, Redding, CA 96001

Redding Garden of Lights

Photo: Michelle Steinhardt

During the holiday season, Turtle Bay’s McConnell Botanical Garden is transformed into a ray of colorful lights designed to delight every inner child. The 10-acre garden has over one million lights, creating a festive experience with dancing lights, holiday music, and hot chocolate. Don’t miss the glowing swings, VIP Igloos, light tunnels, photo pavilion, and fire pits where visitors can make s’mores.

McConnell Botanical Garden: 1125 Arboretum Dr, Redding, CA 96003

Sundial Bridge

Photo: Charles Andrew Morrow/Shutterstock

The Sundial Bridge at Turtle Bay Exploration Park is the brainchild of Santigo Calatrava, a world-renowned Spanish architect and engineer who created a working sundial, a free-standing pedestrian bridge over the Sacramento River, and an art installation all in one project. The sundial works for several hours a day most of the year. Moving at one foot per minute, visitors can see the sundial in motion and enjoy art with a purpose.

Sundial Bridge: Sacramento River Trail, Redding, CA 96001

Downtown Redding

Photo: Visit Redding

Downtown Redding is going through a massive revitalization without any signs of slowing down. The art, shopping, and food scenes are fully displayed as you wander the pedestrian-friendly area. One example of Redding’s commitment to the arts is a new mural project that extends throughout the city, showcasing Redding’s best features and serving as a sense of pride for the community. Visitors might also see a performance at the 999-seat Art Deco Cascade Theatre or stop in for a tour of the beautifully restored theater.

As shopping goes, Redding has an eclectic blend of stores. Whether you are in the mood to go back in time and shop at one of its vintage stores, like Friday’s Vintage Co., or explore the current trends at places like Carousel, there is a healthy mix of boutiques to visit. A day of shopping might also include a stop at Cask and Clever, a family- and women-owned business specializing in charcuterie boards and delicious cheeses; the Shop Around the Corner Books store; or the Juniper Stones Gallery, which offers consciously handpicked crystals, unique gifts, and tools to encourage positivity, healing, and harmony.

Where to eat in ReddingLost Era

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Lost Era is a casual, unique restaurant based in an antique shop that takes a new approach to food and community. The menu consists of one entrée per day that’s thoughtfully planned and locally sourced. The result is mouthwatering food that the community eats together. The food is so delicious that Lost Era is working on a new menu concept for a nearby location.

Lost Era: 1350 Butte St, Redding, CA 96001

Evergreen

Photo: Michelle Steinhardt

Evergreen has a dedicated following of locals enjoying its fresh roasted coffee, delicious food, and light atmosphere. The happening café is packed with those seeking their daily coffee fix of Feast, the in-house roasted coffee beans. Evergreen goes to great lengths to find farmers from around the world who meet its high standards for quality coffee beans, thereby developing strategic farming partnerships that add value to their loyal customers. At night, Evergreen becomes a dinner spot with rotating chefs trying out their newest recipes, taking a seasonal approach to food by working with local farmers to source the freshest ingredients.

Evergreen: 2085 Pine St, Redding, CA 96001

Noelle’s Place

Entering Noelle’s restaurant is like taking a step back in time. The old-school Italian restaurant serves delicious Italian food that maintains its traditional roots. One must-order dish is the Caesar salad for two. It’s rare to find a restaurant serving a tableside Caesar salad worth writing about, but Noelle’s Place knocks it out of the park. The traditional Caesar salad is made with all the classic ingredients, including a raw egg and a dash or two of Tabasco. The menu continues to impress with calamari, pasta, steak, chicken, and fish dishes.

Noelle’s Place: 3055 Bechelli Ln, Redding, CA 96002

Theory Coffee Roasters

Photo: Michelle Steinhardt

A mainstay of Redding’s budding coffee culture is the award-winning coffee served at Theory Coffee Roasters. What started as a partnership between two friends roasting coffee as a hobby has quickly turned into a full-time business. At the core of Theory Coffee Roasters is a sense of community. The open space at the back of the coffee shop provides loyal customers with a place to relax with friends or open their laptops. To enhance the space, local artists display their paintings along the walls, and customers can dine on delicate pastries from Eden Bakery.

Theory Coffee Roasters: Various locations

Jack’s Grill

Photo: Visit Redding

Jack Young wanted to create a place where hard workers could come after a hard day’s work and eat a substantial meal — specifically one-pound steaks. The barebones menu focuses on steak and potatoes but does offer a couple of non-meat dishes, such as fried prawns and chicken. However, you will not find dessert on the menu. Over the last 80 years, Jack’s Grill has held fast to the motto, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” — and, they are right, the steak is perfectly cooked. For history buffs, Jack’s Steakhouse has a checkered past, including housing a brothel for a short time, and once being home to several bullet holes in the wall.

Jack’s Grill: 1743 California St, Redding, CA 96001

Branch House

Photo: Michelle Steinhardt

Just inside Turtle Bay Exploration Park is Branch House, a grab-and-go coffee and light-bite restaurant during the day and a dinner spot at night. Branch House is excellent for those looking to grab a croissant or coffee while visiting the Sundial Bridge and Turtle Bay Exploration Park. At night, head back for dinner or enjoy Wine Down Wednesdays with live music, discounted wine and charcuterie boards, and a few additional menu options. If you opt for the grilled cheese (and you should), ask them to hold the kiddie toys.

Branch House: 844 Sundial Bridge Drive, Redding, CA 96001

Dill’s Deli & BBQ

Walking into Dill’s Deli, you will immediately notice that this is a popular no-frills local sandwich shop. Dill’s Deli & BBQ focuses on quality smoked barbeque and sandwiches. A few specialty sandwiches are the Dave Tappan, a hot pastrami sandwich complimented with Swiss cheese and served on a jalapeño focaccia bread; the Dirty Pig; and the Pig Vicious. Dill’s Deli also serves barbeque, including ribs, tri-tip, and barbeque chicken, as well as make-your-own deli concoctions. If you’re heading out on a hike or a fly fishing trip, Dill’s Deli & BBQ is the perfect place to pick up a sandwich to eat later in the day. If you are ordering to go, consider calling ahead to avoid the wait.

Dill’s Deli: 2167 5132 Caterpillar Rd, Redding, CA 96003

RAW

Photo: Visit Redding

The idea behind RAW was to create a space where guests could enjoy quality sushi sourced from Japan and provide non-sushi options for those who prefer their food cooked. Instead of deterring non-sushi eaters, RAW does the opposite — it embraces them by offering dishes like chicken wings, pho, prime rib, and chicken and pork belly fettuccine. For sushi eaters, give the RAW roll a try. RAW’s visual focal point is the large bar along one of the walls of the restaurant. The 170-seat restaurant is open for lunch and dinner.

RAW: 2167 Hilltop Dr, Redding, CA 96002

Damburger

Photo: Michelle Steinhardt

Damburger is not just a restaurant but an institution. Starting in 1938, young Bud Pennington had the bright idea of selling smash burgers out of a tent at the Shasta Dam construction site. Based on its popularity, Damburger eventually moved to a brick-and-mortar location in downtown Redding. It’s been serving burgers (beef and now vegetarian), hotdogs, and french fries for over 80 years and remains extremely popular with locals. For those with a big appetite, opt for the triple burger with the works.

Damburger: 1320 Placer St, Redding, CA 96001

Mosaic Restaurant

Photo: Michelle Steinhardt

Mosaic is a contemporary American restaurant at the Sheraton Hotel at the Sundial Bridge. Mosaic offers classic dishes like ribeye, carbonara, and pizza from the stone oven. The steak portions are on the small side, so you might want to start with the Brussels sprouts. On Monday nights, Mosaic has live music in the bar area and a small art gallery near the back of the restaurant. Mosaic also offers a small breakfast menu.

Mosaic: 826 Sundial Bridge Drive, Redding, CA 96001

Redding Market Place

The Redding Market Place will open in 2024 and is set to feature several restaurants, bars and breweries, and shops to explore. Once open, the Redding Market Place is anticipated to become a gathering place in downtown Redding for residents and locals to grab a bite to eat, have a drink, and relax with friends.

Where to Stay in ReddingSheraton Redding Hotel

Photo: Visit Redding

The Sheraton Redding Hotel at the Sundial Bridge, Redding’s first four-star hotel, is one of the nicest hotels in town and is conveniently located next to the Sundial Bridge, the Sacramento River, and the Turtle Bay Exploration Park. It’s also less than a five-minute drive to downtown Redding. The LEED-certified hotel is committed to sustainability.

A stay at the Sheraton is an ideal home base while exploring Redding. The Sheraton also has a pool, spa, gym, fitness center, and on-site restaurant, Mosaic, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Pro tip: opt for a room with a view of the Turtle Bay Exploration Park.

Sheraton: 820 Sundial Bridge Drive, Redding, CA 96001

Evergreen

Evergreen has a little-known secret — above its buzzing coffee house are two suites available for guests to rent while in Redding. Locals know about the suites, but travelers may inadvertently overlook this option. Make your reservations early, especially in summer when the suites are consistently fully booked. An added benefit to staying at Evergreen is the ability to walk downstairs for a cup of Feast coffee or stay awhile like the locals and enjoy one of the delicious menu items like avocado toast or a waffle.

Evergreen: 2085 Pine St, Redding, CA 96001

Getting to and around Redding

Photo: Visit Redding

Visitors can fly directly into Redding from cities such as Seattle, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. The short flight and the small, one-gate regional airport makes getting to Redding a breeze. For those who prefer a road trip, Redding is about a four-hour drive north of San Francisco, a two-and-a-half-hour drive north of Sacramento, and a three-and-a-half-hour drive northwest of Reno. Interstate 5 runs right through Redding, making it a natural stopover.

To get the most out of a visit while you’re there, you’ll want to rent a car to get out and explore the sprawling area. However, if you plan to spend most of your time in and around downtown Redding, you can take advantage of the bike share program and rent one of the electric bikes stationed throughout town.

More like thisOutdoorEven After the Fires, Redding Is California’s Last Great Undiscovered Outdoors Destination

This Packable Rain Jacket Will Keep You Bone Dry, Even in Torrential Rain

The Jack Wolfskin Pack & Go Shell:

is extremely waterproof and windproofis very lightpacks into a 9.8 x 7-inch trapezoidis affordable: $120.49 for men’s, $131.20 for women’s

Looking for a jacket? Check out Matador’s detailed reviews: We Tested Patagonia Rain Jackets in the Real World and These Are the 6 Best This Is the Most Durable and Dependable Down Jacket on the Market Arc’Teryx Made The World’s Most Packable Puffy Jacket

November tends to be the most miserable month of the year. At least if you live above the 30th parallel north. It’s overcast, wet, and, although not necessarily very cold, certainly nowhere near warm. It’s usually when temperatures are too high for a proper winter coat, but the weather is too horrid not to wear something waterproof and windproof.

Enter the Jack Wolfskin Pack & Go Shell.
 

We hope you love the jacket our writer tried and recommends! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to buy anything mentioned. But we never let that influence our opinions.

 

This past November 11, just like every year, my partner and I went to our small town’s Remembrance Day celebration (the Canadian equivalent of Veterans Day), which takes place outside City Hall, no matter the climate. Veterans and active military members in uniforms are present, there’s a brass band, the mayor and the city council are here, and several hundreds of townspeople wrapped in their finest impermeable clothing or holding colorful umbrellas stand for about 90 minutes to honor those who have fought in world wars and other conflicts. In 2023, it was, pardon my language, properly pissing down. I’m pretty sure the band’s tuba had several inches of water in it.

While I was in an ill-thought-out, dressy wool coat trying to keep the rain away with a large umbrella, my partner opted to wear my too-big Jack Wolfskin jacket. In the end, with the hood snug around his head, the jacket fully zipped, and his hands deep inside the roomy pockets, he was drier than I was.

Sizing for the Jack Wolfskin Pack & Go Shell

Photo: Morgane Croissant

Last fall, Jack Wolfskin kindly offered me a Pack & Go Shell to test out — all they needed was my preferred color and size. Because I know that female clothing’s sizes are a total mess, I dutifully checked out the detailed guide on the brand’s website, got my measuring tape out, and picked the corresponding size. The result was XL. I usually wear a size M, but if the website said I needed XL, who was I to not follow its advice? A fool, that’s who.

Upon informing them about the issue, the brand told me to keep the XL jacket, which I gave to my six-feet-two-inches, 180-pound male partner to whom it fits just right, and sent me a size L, which suits me perfectly.

If you’re between sizes, order the size up, but don’t follow the website’s guidelines exactly — they tend to err on the large side.

The best features of the Jack Wolfskin Pack & Go Shell

It’s extremely waterproof and windproof

Photo: Morgane Croissant

Both my partner and I tested this Jack Wolfskin jacket in very wet conditions and we are both adamant about one thing: It does the job of keeping you dry impeccably.

When zipped all the way up, the collar lands just under your eyes, keeping most of your face dry and protected from the wind. The hood is also adjustable thanks to an elastic drawstring at the back, allowing you to keep your ears and hair fully covered from inclement weather. The cuffs are fitted with velcro cuff tabs for the same purpose, and there are two elastic drawstrings at the hem. Once all adjusted, there is no way you’ll get wet, even in a downpour, or cold, even in a windstorm.

It’s super light

Photo: Morgane Croissant

This Jack Wolfskin jacket weighs 11.6 ounces (330 grams), so it’s easy to put it in a bag or luggage in case the weather turns, and forget all about it. It also means it’s pleasant to wear — it does not feel bulky and does not hinder movement, even with multiple layers underneath.

Note that the Jack Wolfskin Pack & Go is a shell, so it won’t keep you warm in low temperatures. You need to add warm layers underneath if you venture into colder climates.

It’s packable

Photo: Morgane Croissant

The Jack Wolfskin Pack & Go Shell is ideal for the traveler who likes to be ready for anything. Because it packs into a 9.8 x 7-inch trapezoid and it’s very light, you can easily add it to any bag or suitcase without taking much notice it’s there. I’ve taken the habit of just throwing it into my backpack when I go somewhere for the day and I’m not sure what the weather will throw at me.

To turn it from a fully functional rain jacket into the aforementioned trapezoid, just stuff it into the left pocket. It takes 30 seconds and requires no specific instructions. Easy-peasy.

Additional great details about the Jack Wolfskin Pack & Go Shell

Romy zippered pockets

Because the pockets act as stow pouches for the entire jacket, they are very large. You can stuff your mittens, your phone, and your keys in them, and you’d still have room for a snack. It also means you can keep your hands dry and sheltered from the wind when needed. The icing on the cake is that the pockets are zippered, which is a must to keep your belongings safe.

Grippy zipper pulls

Photo: Morgane Croissant

Every little detail counts when you purchase a piece of gear that you know you’ll wear a lot in uncomfortable situations, even the zipper pulls. On the Jack Wolfskin Pack & Go Shell, each of the three zippers (the main front zipper and the two pocket zippers) is fitted with a non-elastic cord covered in a grippy material. The zipper pulls, along with the zippers, drawstrings, velcro tabs, and lining, are all the same color and match perfectly the exterior of the jacket.

The material is excellent

Reflective details on the Pack & Go Shell. Photo: Morgane Croissant

The Jack Wolfskin Pack & Go Shell is entirely made from the softest, breathable, non-crinkly, wrinkle-resistant polyester (the lining is made of a recycled polyester mesh). You can take it out of its stow pouch and wear it right away without worrying about looking unkempt.

What the Jack Wolfskin Pack & Go Shell can do better

Few color options

Because the brand gifted me two Jack Wolfskin jackets, I was able to take a good look at two of the colors available for women — night blue and hedge green — both of which are lovely and discreet, but a little flat. There are currently very few colors available on the brand’s site (four for women, three for men), all of them rather tame. Options that are a little brighter and fun wouldn’t go amiss.

It could use one more pocket

While the two pockets available are roomy, an inside zippered pocket to fit a phone, a small wallet, or a passport would bring this Jack Wolfskin jacket near perfection.

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At the Ritz-Carlton Aruba, a Dog-Friendly Caribbean Getaway Is Just a Flight Away

Aruba is one of the few Caribbean destinations actively promoting pet-travel, so when looking for a luxury vacation with my chiweenie Poppy, I decided it was time to check out just how dog inclusive One Happy Island really is. Turns out, Aruba is a dushi (the local word for sweet, among other meanings) spot for a mom-and-pup holiday. From the hotels to the restaurants to the activity options, this Dutch Caribbean Isle is also all about making One Happy Dog.

By dogs, I mean dogs under 25 pounds, however. Most of the hotels have weight restrictions, and unless your dog is a service animal, you won’t be able to fly with your pup in the cabin either. Poppy is a psychiatric service animal, trained to assist me with debilitating panic attacks, but for the purpose of this trip, we made sure to only experience places where pet dogs won’t get carded.

Just 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela and outside the hurricane belt, Aruba doesn’t have as intense of a rainy season as most of the Caribbean. The island sees just 15 inches of rain per year (less than anywhere else in the Caribbean), making it ideal to visit year-round. Temperatures are also pretty dushi year-round thanks to near constant trade-winds that keep Aruba warm but not scorching hot and humid.

The Ritz-Carlton Aruba is the ultimate dog-friendly resort on Aruba

Photo: Becca Blond

As a working dog, when she’s on vacay, Poppy expects to be pampered, and that’s exactly what the Ritz-Carlton Aruba offers. The five-star resort occupies a prime location on Palm Beach and welcomes pups up to 20 pounds for a one-time extra fee. The vibe of this Ritz is luxe, as to be expected, but also relaxed.

There are two beachfront swimming pools, and you can also book cabanas for the day. The Ritz even has pint-sized pup cabanas for your pooch. Poppy tried one of these out but preferred to share my cabana’s ultra-comfy sun-lounger bed. Here, we ordered lunch (a bowl of chicken for her, fish tacos for me) and then went for a swim.

Photo: Becca Blond

Poppy is a decent swimmer, but she is not a fan of waves that crash over her ears. She absolutely loved the Caribbean Sea here, because the water is warm, shallow, and incredibly calm. After an ocean paddle, she ran zoomies up and down the white sugar sand beach.

Photo: Becca Blond

The Ritz-Carlton Aruba also has a doggie room service menu, and Poppy enjoyed the sausage, rice, and veggie combo for breakfast one morning. Other highlights included lounging poolside and winning over other guests who insisted on buying her snacks, much to her delight.

Dog-friendly dining around Aruba

Photo: Becca Blond

Going to Aruba with your dog doesn’t mean staying on the property the whole time. Dogs are welcome on numerous patios at restaurants around the island, and we ate off property most nights. Poppy’s favorite dining experience was at Hadicurari Restaurant. Right on the sand between Marriott’s Surf Club and MooMba Beach, this casual spot has pup friendly tables right on the sand. There isn’t a dog menu, but they are happy to cook your dog anything off the human menu and leave the seasoning off. Poppy had a filet mignon, cooked rare, that she ate every bite of.

Kulture Kafe, on the south-east end of Aruba in the San Nicholas (or Sint Nicolaas in Dutch) neighborhood, is another dog friendly restaurant that is locally owned and serves delicious coffee as well as breakfast, salads, wraps, and vegetarian fare. Poppy enjoyed bacon and sausage in her own bowl.

Entertaining your doggo away from the resort

Photo: Becca Blond

For off-property activities, hang around the San Nicholas neighborhood, which is filled with more than 50 murals and art installations. While you can stroll on your own, the best way to take in and fully understand the art with on a tour with Aruba Mural Tours. It’s run by the personable Tito, who is extremely passionate about turning Aruba into an art destination. The tours last around two hours and cover the history of art on the island. These are super dog friendly and offer some great photo ops. Tito also does art dinners in a gallery space, which welcome dogs.

Photo: Becca Blond

If your dog does enjoy beach time, check out Baby Beach while in San Nicholas. The beach has very shallow and calm turquoise water that make it easy for timid swimmers to feel confident in. Its popular with locals, and less crowded than Palm Beach. It also has good swimming and snorkeling for humans.

How to travel to Aruba with your dog

Photo: Becca Blond

With a little advance planning, it’s easy to take your small dog to Aruba from the United States. To enter Aruba, your dog will need an international health certificate from an accredited veterinarian within two weeks of travel to Aruba. Your dog will need to be microchipped and have a valid rabies vaccine. Your vet will do a physical exam of your dog and fill out and sign the international health certificate for Aruba.

The signed form then needs to be sent to the USDA veterinarian’s office in the region your state falls in. That office then will endorse the form and return it to you before departure. The certificate is only valid for 14 days from the date of issue by the official USDA veterinarian, and it can take the USDA vet up to a week to process the certificate, so plan accordingly.

Once you have the endorsed form back, you’ll need to email a copy of it to vetservice@dvg.aw in Aruba. This office will stamp the form and email it back. I got my form back in about 24 hours. You’ll need to bring the stamped copy of the health certificate with you to the airport.

Your airline will check the form before you board, and you’ll also show it to the customs official at the airport. After passing through immigration and claiming your luggage, you will need to wait in the “items to declare” customs line. This is where you will show the form. The process was easy with the customs official just looking for the government stamp and then welcoming us onto One Happy Island.

More like thisBeaches and IslandsWhy You Should Look To Aruba for Your Next Relaxing, Culturally Immersive Caribbean Vacation

Dominica Vs. the Dominican Republic: Which Island Is Right for You?

When the temperatures are dropping across the US and you’ve made it through the stress of the holidays, you may find yourself in desperate need of a vacay. But when it comes time to look at flights, and maybe trip packages, you may notice something when you start to type “D-o-m” into the search bar: instead of flights to the Dominican Republic, you see flights to Dominica. Maybe you’ve heard of the island, or maybe it’s your first time — or maybe you didn’t even know that Dominica and the Dominican Republic were two different countries.

So before you book your flight, you may want to learn some key differences between the countries of Dominica and the Republica Dominicana – a.k.a., the Dominican Republic, or DR.

Jump to:Culture of Dominica vs the DRGetting to Dominica or the Dominican RepublicThings to do in both countriesHotels in the DR vs DominicaFood similarities and differences The best time to visit each countryCosts of visiting Dominica vs the DRThe verdictHistory and culture of Dominica vs. the Dominica Republic

Wood-carved Kalinago masks from Dominica. Photo: Amery Butcher/Shutterstock

Dominica boasts the largest Indigenous community left in the Caribbean due to multiple successful attempts at fighting colonization. By 1763, European settlers had pushed the Kalinago Tribe primarily onto the island’s mountainous and steep eastern side, which was difficult for outsiders to navigate. After the British gained control, the Kalinago were allotted 232 acres. In 1903, that was increased to 3,700 acres.

To this day, the Kalinago influence is still felt in Dominica. Citizens whose heritage is a mix of African and Kalinago are called Caribs, and there’s even a local radio station that devotes time each day to a Kalinago history lesson and word of the day, taught by an elder. Many members of the tribe live well into their 100s, which makes the island an unofficial “blue zone.”

The island has only 76,000 residents, and most of the population is of African descent. There are also 3,000 Kalinago and quite a few mixed-race individuals. The majority of Dominicans speak English, and a few speak Patois. Kalinago has its own language, but it’s predominantly an English-speaking territory. The currency is the East Caribbean dollar, but USD is widely accepted.

The DR, on the other hand, has more than 11 million residents and is the most-visited Caribbean island for US travelers. The population in the Dominican Republic has a mix of Taino, African, and European roots. Most of the population speaks Spanish, but that won’t impact English speakers on the island in tourist destinations. Staff at resorts and tour companies are bilingual, and travelers should be fine getting by with just English. Most signage, museum displays, restaurants, and tours are also in English. The currency is the Dominican peso, but USD is also accepted.

Getting to Dominica vs. the DR

The main cities in Dominica are Roseau, Portsmouth, and Marigot; the latter is home to the island’s only international airport, Douglas-Charles Airport. By Caribbean standards, these may seem quite big, but Roseau only has 16,000 residents.

Dominica isn’t the easiest island to reach from the US and will require some flexibility in your schedule, since direct flights are only once a day from Miami, FL (or San Juan, PR), and missing your flight could be a headache. American Airlines is your only option for a direct flight. But assuming travel goes smoothly, you’ll fly over lush green terrain before landing on the airport’s new runway. Dominica’s airport is tiny, with a duty-free stand instead of a full store, but construction is underway for an international airport that can accommodate larger jets. The flight time from Miami is about 3.5 hours.

Getting to the Dominican Republic is generally easier (and cheaper). The DR has seven international airports, and flights to and from Santo Domingo and Punta Cana leave multiple times per day from most major US cities. Every major US airline flies there, with direct flights from nearly all eastern seaboard cities, plus towns in Texas, Colorado, and the Midwest. If you’re flying from the West Coast, you may have to make one connection. Punta Cana is a 2.5-hour flight from Miami.

Activities and things to do in the DR vs. Dominica

Syndicate Waterfalls in Dominica. Photo: Derek D. Galon/Shutterstock

Hotels across both countriess are used to booking activities for guests, so you don’t need to plan everything by yourself in either place. Many also offer their own activities for guests, like horseback riding along the beach at the Intercontinental on Dominica.

Dominica is plenty safe to explore on your own (if you can handle the rural, mountainous driving), but having a local show you around is how you fall in love with Dominica. The island is mostly undeveloped by Caribbean tourism standards, making it an attractive place for Hollywood films to shoot, such as “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest.” That movie made Titou Gorge famous, but the gorge has 65 rivers and 12 waterfalls to explore, so there’s plenty of room even on a crowded day. Many are close to one another and are easy to visit on one trip.

The island also has nine active volcanoes, making soaking in sulfuric hot springs popular among locals and visitors. Local tour guides can help make the destinations easier to find, and often are able to pass along discounts on entry fees to natural attractions.

Photo: Animalgraphy/Shutterstock

The entire island is about 289 square miles and 29 miles long, but the roads are rough, and it could take hours to get to some places. Many people explore the areas around their resort or hotel, spending maybe one day on a long-haul excursion. The island is also a top scuba diving destination and a great place to see sperm whales.

In the Dominican Republic, cities like Santiago de Los Caballeros and Santo Domingo are known for their nightlife and party scenes, rather than their natural assets. You’re more likely to hear Latin American sounds like merengue and bachata music, as opposed to American tunes, and you’re more likely to mingle with locals who are friendly and love dancing. You may struggle a bit more if you don’t speak Spanish when venturing into residential areas and shops, and you may end up paying more money because of it.

A beach in in La Romana, Dominican Republic. Photo: AeroPictures/Shutterstock

For watersports enthusiasts, Scape Park is worth the trip, with activities like cenote swimming and “splash lines” (zip lines over huge pools). The beaches of La Romana are the place to go if you’re into diving – or even if you’re not, since no trip to the island is complete without a trip to the beaches. Las Terrenas has a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches and cenotes, and Playa los Platos also has a picturesque white sandy coast. Resorts can help plan excursions for zip lining, buggy rides, and water activities.

In a very general sense, the DR caters to soft adventure and activities that aren’t too physically taxing, while Dominica may be seen as a little more “wild.” That makes Dominica perhaps a better pick for adventure junkies, and the DR a better choice for groups with mixed comfort levels or older/younger travelers in their parties. But both have the jungle, mountain, and water adventures you’d expect of lush Caribbean islands.

Resorts and hotels across the Dominica vs. the Dominican Republic

Luxury resorts dot much of the Punta Cana shoreline. Photo: Pavel Prodan/Shutterstock

Dominica is on the verge of expansion. But for now, the island has only a small handful of five-star resorts and one chain: the Intercontinental on Douglas Bay, next to Cabrits National Park. The park is a popular hiking area known primarily for a trail to the remains of a historic fort. Secret Bay, also in Portsmouth, is a high-end eco-resort offering bungalows and villas, and Coulibri Ridge is a high-end blend of luxury and genuine sustainability. Outside of these three options, most visitors will stay in guest houses and small inns.

The Dominican Republic has quite a few more choices of hotels and resorts, both family-friendly and those for adults only. Considering that the DR covers more than 18,000 square miles, there really are resorts tailored to almost every type of traveler. While the island is known for the massive all-inclusive resorts around Punta Cana, there are also smaller beachfront properties and plenty of tucked-away eco-lodges and jungle stays.

Most visitors choose to stay in these types of accommodations – especially the all-inclusives – but cities like Santo Domingo and La Romanas have plenty of fantastic Airbnbs and guest houses. There can be safety concerns in some areas when wandering out on your own, so having a tour guide or using cabs or ride shares is generally safer than renting a car, and travelers should take precautions when walking outside of tourist areas or at night.

Food in the DR vs Dominica

Photo: Stefano Ember/Shutterstock

Despite the countries’ similar names, their cuisines exhibit notable differences.

In the Dominican Republic, the cuisine is a flavorful blend of Indigenous Taino, Spanish, African, and Middle Eastern influences. A staple in Dominican cuisine is mangu, made with mashed green plantains and served with sauteed red onions. Another popular and similar dish is mofongo, a savory mound of fried and mashed plantains mixed with garlic and seafood. It’s also popular in nearby islands like Puerto Rico.

On the other hand, Dominica’s cuisine reflects its natural bounty. Callaloo soup is a widely enjoyed dish in Dominica, made with dasheen leaves, okra, and coconut milk. Another one you’ll see on menus is bouyon, a hearty stew made with various meats, root vegetables, and green bananas, all locally grown.

But the countries do have a few culinary elements in common, as do many Caribbean islands. Rice and beans are staples, and seafood plays a significant role in both cuisines, with various fish, lobster, and conch dishes wildly available at street food stalls.

When to visit Dominica vs. the Dominican Republic

Both countries are subject to heavy rain and storms, especially during hurricane season. Photo: Jeanette Dietl/Shutterstock

The best times to visit the DR vs Dominica are pretty similar. Avoid hurricane season in both countries (roughly August to October). Winter and early spring in Dominica are the best times to visit to avoid the rainy season and take advantage of slightly cooler daytime temperatures. That said, the daytime highs are pretty similar year-round, ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s F.

The same time period is usually the best for visiting the DR as well, though it gets less hot than Dominica in the summer. July highs in the DR are usually in the high 80s F, while that’s somewhat chilly for Dominica. That’s because the DR is further northwest in the Caribbean than Dominica, giving it a slightly cooler and less humid climate. Slightly.

Costs of visiting the DR vs. Dominica

Large resorts with amenities like swim-up pool bars and beach activities are more affordable in the DR. Photo: Krivosheev Vitaly/Shutterstock

The Dominican Republic is generally considered a more affordable destination compared to Dominica. Flights to the Dominican Republic can often be more budget-friendly, especially if you’re flying to popular tourist destinations like Punta Cana or Santo Domingo. Hotel accommodations range from budget options to luxury resorts, providing a wide range of choices to suit different budgets, and enough competition to keep prices somewhat reasonable. Activities like tours, snorkeling, and sunset sails are usually less expensive than those in Dominica, primarily because there are so many options. The DR is also known for having some of the most affordable all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean.

Smaller and less commercially developed Dominica generally has higher flight costs and hotel rates. Flights to Dominica are limited compared to most Caribbean destinations, and you’ll likely have a few connections. Accommodations in Dominica are fewer and further between, leading to higher prices for everything from guest houses to luxury hotels. That’s not to say that you can’t find affordable lodging, but you may have fewer choices.

The verdict

Photo: Derek D. Galon/Shutterstock

When it comes to Dominica vs. the Dominican Republic, it’s not so much which is better, but which offers the type of trip you want. If you have a sense of adventure, some schedule and budget flexibility, and a distaste for big hotels with lots of amenities, consider planning a trip to the eco-paradise of Dominica. If you have a group of travelers who want a mix of relaxing and high-energy activities, are more budget-conscious, or are looking for a resort where you can sip margaritas in the sun for a few days on the beach, the DR may be a better pick.

Of course, both resorts offer both experiences if you know where to go, so ultimately, there’s only one way to decide which is the best island for you: visit both. 

More like thisTravelSkip Punta Cana for the Real Dominican Republic in El Limón

Dominica Vs. the Dominican Republic: Which Island Is Right for You

When the temperatures are dropping across the US and you’ve made it through the stress of the holidays, you may find yourself in desperate need of a vacay. But when it comes time to look at flights, and maybe trip packages, you may notice something when you start to type “D-o-m” into the search bar: instead of flights to the Dominican Republic, you see flights to Dominica. Maybe you’ve heard of the island, or maybe it’s your first time — or maybe you didn’t even know that Dominica and the Dominican Republic were two different countries.

So before you book your flight, you may want to learn some key differences between the countries of Dominica and the Republica Dominicana – a.k.a., the Dominican Republic, or DR.

Jump to:Culture of Dominica vs the DRGetting to Dominica or the Dominican RepublicThings to do in both countriesHotels in the DR vs DominicaFood similarities and differences The best time to visit each countryCosts of visiting Dominica vs the DRThe verdictHistory and culture of Dominica vs. the Dominica Republic

Wood-carved Kalinago masks from Dominica. Photo: Amery Butcher/Shutterstock

Dominica boasts the largest Indigenous community left in the Caribbean due to multiple successful attempts at fighting colonization. By 1763, European settlers had pushed the Kalinago Tribe primarily onto the island’s mountainous and steep eastern side, which was difficult for outsiders to navigate. After the British gained control, the Kalinago were allotted 232 acres. In 1903, that was increased to 3,700 acres.

To this day, the Kalinago influence is still felt in Dominica. Citizens whose heritage is a mix of African and Kalinago are called Caribs, and there’s even a local radio station that devotes time each day to a Kalinago history lesson and word of the day, taught by an elder. Many members of the tribe live well into their 100s, which makes the island an unofficial “blue zone.”

The island has only 76,000 residents, and most of the population is of African descent. There are also 3,000 Kalinago and quite a few mixed-race individuals. The majority of Dominicans speak English, and a few speak Patois. Kalinago has its own language, but it’s predominantly an English-speaking territory. The currency is the East Caribbean dollar, but USD is widely accepted.

The DR, on the other hand, has more than 11 million residents and is the most-visited Caribbean island for US travelers. The population in the Dominican Republic has a mix of Taino, African, and European roots. Most of the population speaks Spanish, but that won’t impact English speakers on the island in tourist destinations. Staff at resorts and tour companies are bilingual, and travelers should be fine getting by with just English. Most signage, museum displays, restaurants, and tours are also in English. The currency is the Dominican peso, but USD is also accepted.

Getting to Dominica vs. the DR

The main cities in Dominica are Roseau, Portsmouth, and Marigot; the latter is home to the island’s only international airport, Douglas-Charles Airport. By Caribbean standards, these may seem quite big, but Roseau only has 16,000 residents.

Dominica isn’t the easiest island to reach from the US and will require some flexibility in your schedule, since direct flights are only once a day from Miami, FL (or San Juan, PR), and missing your flight could be a headache. American Airlines is your only option for a direct flight. But assuming travel goes smoothly, you’ll fly over lush green terrain before landing on the airport’s new runway. Dominica’s airport is tiny, with a duty-free stand instead of a full store, but construction is underway for an international airport that can accommodate larger jets. The flight time from Miami is about 3.5 hours.

Getting to the Dominican Republic is generally easier (and cheaper). The DR has seven international airports, and flights to and from Santo Domingo and Punta Cana leave multiple times per day from most major US cities. Every major US airline flies there, with direct flights from nearly all eastern seaboard cities, plus towns in Texas, Colorado, and the Midwest. If you’re flying from the West Coast, you may have to make one connection. Punta Cana is a 2.5-hour flight from Miami.

Activities and things to do in the DR vs. Dominica

Syndicate Waterfalls in Dominica. Photo: Derek D. Galon/Shutterstock

Hotels across both countriess are used to booking activities for guests, so you don’t need to plan everything by yourself in either place. Many also offer their own activities for guests, like horseback riding along the beach at the Intercontinental on Dominica.

Dominica is plenty safe to explore on your own (if you can handle the rural, mountainous driving), but having a local show you around is how you fall in love with Dominica. The island is mostly undeveloped by Caribbean tourism standards, making it an attractive place for Hollywood films to shoot, such as “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest.” That movie made Titou Gorge famous, but the gorge has 65 rivers and 12 waterfalls to explore, so there’s plenty of room even on a crowded day. Many are close to one another and are easy to visit on one trip.

The island also has nine active volcanoes, making soaking in sulfuric hot springs popular among locals and visitors. Local tour guides can help make the destinations easier to find, and often are able to pass along discounts on entry fees to natural attractions.

Photo: Animalgraphy/Shutterstock

The entire island is about 289 square miles and 29 miles long, but the roads are rough, and it could take hours to get to some places. Many people explore the areas around their resort or hotel, spending maybe one day on a long-haul excursion. The island is also a top scuba diving destination and a great place to see sperm whales.

In the Dominican Republic, cities like Santiago de Los Caballeros and Santo Domingo are known for their nightlife and party scenes, rather than their natural assets. You’re more likely to hear Latin American sounds like merengue and bachata music, as opposed to American tunes, and you’re more likely to mingle with locals who are friendly and love dancing. You may struggle a bit more if you don’t speak Spanish when venturing into residential areas and shops, and you may end up paying more money because of it.

A beach in in La Romana, Dominican Republic. Photo: AeroPictures/Shutterstock

For watersports enthusiasts, Scape Park is worth the trip, with activities like cenote swimming and “splash lines” (zip lines over huge pools). The beaches of La Romana are the place to go if you’re into diving – or even if you’re not, since no trip to the island is complete without a trip to the beaches. Las Terrenas has a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches and cenotes, and Playa los Platos also has a picturesque white sandy coast. Resorts can help plan excursions for zip lining, buggy rides, and water activities.

In a very general sense, the DR caters to soft adventure and activities that aren’t too physically taxing, while Dominica may be seen as a little more “wild.” That makes Dominica perhaps a better pick for adventure junkies, and the DR a better choice for groups with mixed comfort levels or older/younger travelers in their parties. But both have the jungle, mountain, and water adventures you’d expect of lush Caribbean islands.

Resorts and hotels across the Dominica vs. the Dominican Republic

Luxury resorts dot much of the Punta Cana shoreline. Photo: Pavel Prodan/Shutterstock

Dominica is on the verge of expansion. But for now, the island has only a small handful of five-star resorts and one chain: the Intercontinental on Douglas Bay, next to Cabrits National Park. The park is a popular hiking area known primarily for a trail to the remains of a historic fort. Secret Bay, also in Portsmouth, is a high-end eco-resort offering bungalows and villas, and Coulibri Ridge is a high-end blend of luxury and genuine sustainability. Outside of these three options, most visitors will stay in guest houses and small inns.

The Dominican Republic has quite a few more choices of hotels and resorts, both family-friendly and those for adults only. Considering that the DR covers more than 18,000 square miles, there really are resorts tailored to almost every type of traveler. While the island is known for the massive all-inclusive resorts around Punta Cana, there are also smaller beachfront properties and plenty of tucked-away eco-lodges and jungle stays.

Most visitors choose to stay in these types of accommodations – especially the all-inclusives – but cities like Santo Domingo and La Romanas have plenty of fantastic Airbnbs and guest houses. There can be safety concerns in some areas when wandering out on your own, so having a tour guide or using cabs or ride shares is generally safer than renting a car, and travelers should take precautions when walking outside of tourist areas or at night.

Food in the DR vs Dominica

Photo: Stefano Ember/Shutterstock

Despite the countries’ similar names, their cuisines exhibit notable differences.

In the Dominican Republic, the cuisine is a flavorful blend of Indigenous Taino, Spanish, African, and Middle Eastern influences. A staple in Dominican cuisine is mangu, made with mashed green plantains and served with sauteed red onions. Another popular and similar dish is mofongo, a savory mound of fried and mashed plantains mixed with garlic and seafood. It’s also popular in nearby islands like Puerto Rico.

On the other hand, Dominica’s cuisine reflects its natural bounty. Callaloo soup is a widely enjoyed dish in Dominica, made with dasheen leaves, okra, and coconut milk. Another one you’ll see on menus is bouyon, a hearty stew made with various meats, root vegetables, and green bananas, all locally grown.

But the countries do have a few culinary elements in common, as do many Caribbean islands. Rice and beans are staples, and seafood plays a significant role in both cuisines, with various fish, lobster, and conch dishes wildly available at street food stalls.

When to visit Dominica vs. the Dominican Republic

Both countries are subject to heavy rain and storms, especially during hurricane season. Photo: Jeanette Dietl/Shutterstock

The best times to visit the DR vs Dominica are pretty similar. Avoid hurricane season in both countries (roughly August to October). Winter and early spring in Dominica are the best times to visit to avoid the rainy season and take advantage of slightly cooler daytime temperatures. That said, the daytime highs are pretty similar year-round, ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s F.

The same time period is usually the best for visiting the DR as well, though it gets less hot than Dominica in the summer. July highs in the DR are usually in the high 80s F, while that’s somewhat chilly for Dominica. That’s because the DR is further northwest in the Caribbean than Dominica, giving it a slightly cooler and less humid climate. Slightly.

Costs of visiting the DR vs. Dominica

Large resorts with amenities like swim-up pool bars and beach activities are more affordable in the DR. Photo: Krivosheev Vitaly/Shutterstock

The Dominican Republic is generally considered a more affordable destination compared to Dominica. Flights to the Dominican Republic can often be more budget-friendly, especially if you’re flying to popular tourist destinations like Punta Cana or Santo Domingo. Hotel accommodations range from budget options to luxury resorts, providing a wide range of choices to suit different budgets, and enough competition to keep prices somewhat reasonable. Activities like tours, snorkeling, and sunset sails are usually less expensive than those in Dominica, primarily because there are so many options. The DR is also known for having some of the most affordable all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean.

Smaller and less commercially developed Dominica generally has higher flight costs and hotel rates. Flights to Dominica are limited compared to most Caribbean destinations, and you’ll likely have a few connections. Accommodations in Dominica are fewer and further between, leading to higher prices for everything from guest houses to luxury hotels. That’s not to say that you can’t find affordable lodging, but you may have fewer choices.

The verdict

Photo: Derek D. Galon/Shutterstock

When it comes to Dominica vs. the Dominican Republic, it’s not so much which is better, but which offers the type of trip you want. If you have a sense of adventure, some schedule and budget flexibility, and a distaste for big hotels with lots of amenities, consider planning a trip to the eco-paradise of Dominica. If you have a group of travelers who want a mix of relaxing and high-energy activities, are more budget-conscious, or are looking for a resort where you can sip margaritas in the sun for a few days on the beach, the DR may be a better pick.

Of course, both resorts offer both experiences if you know where to go, so ultimately, there’s only one way to decide which is the best island for you: visit both. 

More like thisTravelSkip Punta Cana for the Real Dominican Republic in El Limón

Saddle Up, Skeet Shoot, and BBQ Under the Stars at This Arizona Dude Ranch

As a true city slicker, I’ve long wanted to experience a weekend ranch getaway. Arizona’s Rancho de los Caballeros delivered pure Southwest perfection from the moment I arrived.

I visited the desert resort with my husband and six-year-old daughter. Rancho de los Caballeros is located an hour and a half from Phoenix by car in the town of Wickenburg, where the West is still wild. Driving up the long and winding road to the property, we were greeted by horses, the earthy smell of creosote bushes, and lots of cowboy hats and belt buckles.

Inside the ranch, my husband, a former professional pool player, was immediately drawn to the massive pool and poker tables in the game room while my daughter was captivated by the wood-burning fireplace in the lobby, quickly getting cozy among the couches, saddles, and grand piano. Within minutes of settling in at Rancho de los Caballeros, all three of us knew that we were in for a special weekend.

An authentic dude ranch with sophisticated casitas

Photo: Rancho de los Caballeros

Surrounded by the Sonoran Desert, Rancho de los Caballeros has 79 rooms, including 67 casitas and 12 suites that open to views of saguaros, wild flora and fauna, and breathtaking sunsets. Room rates range from $390 to $615 per night depending on the season.

My family and I stayed in one of the Maricopa Suites, a 750-square-foot private casita that was perfect for our three-person family. The spacious living area contains a queen-size Murphy bed, a dining table, a fireplace, sofas, and a writing desk, as well as a private balcony. Maricopa Suites also come with a cute kitchen, a private bedroom with a king bed, and a double-sink bathroom with a jetted tub and large walk-in shower.

Photo: Rancho de los Caballeros

While my family enjoyed one of the ranch’s most spacious casitas, even the smallest 310-square-foot rooms at Rancho de los Caballeros can fit up to three guests, with your choice of a king bed or a double-twin combo. All of the accommodations share the same charming Santa Fe-style decor, with interior touches such as Mexican tiling and Southwestern paintings to create the charming ambiance of an authentic yet elevated dude ranch.

The activities, amenities, and adventures that make the stay

Photo: Rancho de los Caballeros

When you’re not relaxing in your casita, there’s a wide variety of activities to experience at Rancho de los Caballeros. To start, the ranch has its very own championship-caliber 18-hole golf course that will have you teeing off in view of the rolling Bradshaw Mountains. The ranch also hosts tennis and pickleball courts; guided excursions such as bike, jeep, and ATV tours; and wellness amenities such as yoga and spa offerings.

But if you’ve come for the true ranch experience, you’d be remiss not to saddle up and take a horseback trail ride into the Sonoran desert. The 1.5-hour trail ride is suited for all levels or horseback riders — beginner through advanced — and accompanied by ranch wranglers. Guests under the age of seven can also enjoy a horseback experience through the ranch’s ring rides, which are five-minute rides around a corral led by a wrangler, as well as other kid-friendly activities through the ranch’s kids club.

While the horseback rides were the highlight of our family’s stay, my husband also loved the skeet shooting lesson that he took, while my daughter and I tried our hand at roping, which we learned is not as easy as it looks but nonetheless fun to try. Trap shooting and archery lessons are also available and led by professional instructors, among other activities.

Culinary experiences from fine dining to cookouts

Photo: Rancho de los Caballeros

In addition to daily breakfast and lunch buffets, a club grill, and a saloon for evening entertainment and drinks on the property, the main dining room at Rancho de los Caballeros brings fine dining to the ranch experience. It was fun getting dressed up — think vest or jacket for men and business casual for women — and attending a formal dinner at the resort. The menu includes dishes such as a bruschetta board and sea bass ceviche for starters, steak or red mountain trout for mains, a nice selection that’s suitable for kids, and desserts like the giant chocolate chip cookie brownie sundae that’s sure to be a hit for diners of all ages.

Rancho de los Caballeros also recently launched its inaugural Celebrity Chef Ranch Weekends, a culinary series hosted once a month from November 2023 to April 2024. The series brings together the ranch’s Executive Chef Jacob Ellis with a variety of guest chefs, creating immersive three-course dinner experiences that incorporate each chef’s signature specialties.

If you’re planning a weekend getaway at the ranch, there’s another special culinary experience that’s not to be missed: a Saturday cookout. The event starts with an evening hayride that takes you to Yucca Flats, where you’ll enjoy slow-cooked barbecue under the stars, s’mores by the campfire, ranch games, hot cocoa, and sing-alongs led by acoustic-guitar-playing cowboys. Our daughter danced the night away in her pink cowgirl hat and jeans.

Local attractions in Wickenburg

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As with most accommodations, part of Rancho de los Caballeros’ charm is its location. Wickenburg is truly a town that spirits the Old West, with a historic downtown that has shops, galleries, and cafes. For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Desert Caballeros Western Museum provides a deep dive into the area’s cowboy and ranching heritage. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Hassayampa River Preserve offers serene nature trails and bird-watching opportunities along the Hassayampa River. Between the property itself and the surrounding town, Rancho de los Caballeros has everything you need to stay entertained for a weekend or longer.

How to get to Wickenburg

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Rancho de los Caballeros is located inside Wickenburg, a small Arizona desert town. If you’re arriving by plane, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the closest major airport. From there, you can rent a car and take a 1.5-hour drive northwest on US-60 W. The drive is filled with cool Arizona landscapes and desert views. If you’re driving from other parts of Arizona, Wickenburg is accessible via US-60 or State Route 93. We drove from Scottsdale, Arizona, and the drive was just under 1.5 hours.

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