Matador Network's Blog, page 243
October 23, 2023
The 12 Most Spectacular US Hotels That Go All Out for Christmas
Nothing says “happy holidays” like an extravagant Christmas display. Hoteliers know this. That’s why every winter hotels across the country get dressed in their holiday best, with twinkly lights and holly wreaths and maybe a reindeer lawn ornament or two. But only a handful of hotels truly go all out. From stories-high Christmas trees to beachfront ice skating rinks, these nine US holiday hotels take seasonal cheer to a whole new level.
We hope you love these holiday hotels we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Hotel del Coronado — San Diego, California
Photo: Hotel del Coronado
See more photosSan Diego’s Hotel del Coronado has become an unlikely holiday destination, thanks to the oceanfront ice rink the hotel sets up every winter. Activities like starlight holiday movie screenings and Jingle Roast s’mores sessions around private bonfires help sell the idea of a California Christmas. But Christmas dinner is where the hotel really shines, with a grand buffet in the Crown and Coronet Rooms. There’s also a Roaring ‘20s-themed New Year’s Eve Gala here, for those who want to keep the festivities going.
Price: $645 per night
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess — Scottsdale, ArizonaPhoto: Courtesy of Fairmont Scottsdale
See more photosEvery year the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess performs a Christmas miracle: It turns the Sonoran Desert into a winter wonderland. The transformation starts with over six million LED lights, 70,000 of which are threaded around a giant tree in the resort’s Enchanted Plaza. Next comes 6,000 square feet of actual ice in the shape of a desert skating rink, an alpine skate track and 120-foot sledding hill at The Village, and a s’mores-ready campfire in the Christmas tree forest. Even Santa makes an appearance for meet-and-greets.
Price: $639 per night
Taking a trip over the holidays? Check out Matador’s holiday accommodation guides: Best Family-Friendly Airbnbs in America’s Most Popular Christmas Cities10 Big Family Airbnbs for the Holidays in the NortheastThe Best Resorts in Hawaii for a Family Vacation of a Lifetime9 Charming Small Towns That Look Just Like a Hallmark Christmas MovieGaylord Opryland — Nashville, Tennessee
Photo: Courtesy of Gaylord Opryland
Nashville’s Gaylord Opryland Resort promises a “country Christmas” with dozens of activities starting in November. Guests can try ice skating, ice tubing, or even ice bumper bars; hop in a horse-drawn carriage; cruise the resort’s Delta Atrium in a riverboat; and catch holiday dinner shows before enjoying the nightly tree lighting and caroling. With tons of kid-focused activities such as a Build-A-Bear workshop and Santa’s Spinner ride, Gaylord Opryland is particularly fun for families with little ones.
Price: $369 per night
The Resort at Paws Up — Greenough, Montana
Photo: The Resort at Paws Up
See more photosThe Resort at Paws Up is offering a special “Montana Christmas” package this holiday season. The offer includes a five-night stay in a luxury vacation home, complete with your very own Christmas tree, plus entry into a gingerbread-house-building contest, a visit from Santa on Christmas Eve, and a $500 resort gift card per person per stay. Meals and round-trip airport transfers are also included. On the ranch, guests have their pick of winter activities, from cross-country and downhill skiing to fat biking, snowmobiling, dog sledding, tubing, and skijoring, a sport that involves strapping on skis and being pulled by a horse or dog.
Price: $1,637 per night
The Cloister at Sea Island — Sea Island, Georgia
Photo: Courtesy of Sea Island
See more photosThis five-star resort on a private island in Georgia goes all out for Christmas, from its elegant decorations to its roster of holiday events. This year’s kid-friendly festivities will include a Reindeer Dash Family Fun Run, storytime with Santa’s elves, and ornament-decorating workshops. Even the furry, four-legged members of your family are invited to get in on the fun at the annual Reindog Parade, costumes encouraged. Top it off with a big Christmas Eve dinner in the Cloister Ballroom, and it’ll be a holiday to remember.
Price: $1,063 per night
The Roosevelt — New Orleans, Louisiana
Photo: Hilton
See more photosIt comes as no surprise that one of the grandest holiday hotels in New Orleans stages one of the most breathtaking Christmas displays. Walking through the lobby is an event in its own right, owing to more than 100,000 glittering lights, dozens of Christmas trees decorated with over 1,000 glass ornaments, over 1,500 feet of garland, and magical displays of birch boughs and wreaths. Don’t be surprised if you see non-guests lining up for selfies.
Price: $448 per night
Omni Mount Washington — New Hampshire
Photo: Courtesy of Omni Mount Washington Resort
See more photosNestled in the White Mountains, Omni Mount Washington is a grand hotel that offers a classic New England Christmas experience. The hotel’s holiday decor and program of festive activities make it a favorite among families. If staying before December 25, the winter package includes the opportunity to hand-cut a Christmas tree to take home along with a homemade wreath.
Price: $520 per night
French Quarter Inn — Charleston, South Carolina
Photo: Courtesy of Charlestowne Hotels
See more photosThe French Quarter Inn in Charleston offers a unique Southern twist on the holiday season. Think warm hospitality, charming decorations, and a festive atmosphere that captures the spirit of a traditional Southern Christmas. Guests visiting during December can book the Sleigh Bell Suite. Decorated with garlands and mistletoe, the suite also features an in-room eggnog bar and classic holiday movie screenings. The hotel’s location is perfect, too. It’s within walking distance of prime shopping locations and popular attractions like the Gibbes Museum and the Nathaniel Russell House.
Price: $520 per night
Mohonk Mountain House — New Paltz, New York
Photo: Courtesy of Mohonk Mountain House
See more photosThis Victorian castle turned upstate New York resort does the holidays Dickens style. Beginning Christmas Eve, guests can participate in a host of yuletide fun, from decorating cookies and graham cracker houses to competing in a yule log scavenger hunt that kicks off with Christmas trivia. Mohonk Mountain House also makes it easy to enjoy the wintry Hudson Valley air. Think ice skating, Catskills snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing on 30-plus miles of groomed trails.
Price: $655 per night
The Plaza Hotel — New York, New York
Photo: The Plaza Hotel
See more photosManhattan’s Plaza Hotel is a New York City icon. Especially at Christmas. Second to Rockefeller Center’s Norway spruce, The Plaza decorates one of the city’s glitziest trees, which in the past has reached almost 20 feet tall, featured close to 1,000 ornaments, and had fun themes such as “Eloise” and “The Great Gatsby.” Gourmands will appreciate the holiday menus at the hotel’s fine-dining Palm Court restaurant, with a special Christmas Grand Buffet on the 25th.
Price: $1,299 per night
The Greenbrier — White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia
Photo: The Greenbrier
See more photosThe Greenbrier, in White Sulphur Springs, has been welcoming guests for the holidays since 1778. The hotel is famous for its mineral spa that incorporates the healing properties of the local sulfur springs, offering therapeutic and restorative treatments – a relaxing indulgence during the holiday season. The exterior view of the large white building, adorned with gardens, paints a picturesque winter wonderland scene during Christmas. Beyond the splendid accommodations, The Greenbrier provides an array of activities including exploring its 11,000 acres, a tree lighting ceremony with hot chocolate, caroling, and a festive scavenger Hunt. The Greenbrier’s reputation and breathtaking surroundings make it a great hotel for a memorable Christmas getaway.
Price: From $268 per night
The Hotel Hershey — Hershey, Pennsylvania
Photo: The Hotel Hershey
See more photosLeave it to the chocolate capital of America to host one of the nation’s most delicious Christmas celebrations. During the holidays at Hotel Hershey, guests not only get five-star service but also access to Hersheypark Christmas Candylane, a town-wide holiday extravaganza. There are roller coasters, sweets-themed eateries like The Chocolatier restaurant, and a resident Santa complete with an entourage of reindeer. Treat the kids to a trip to “The Sweetest Place on Earth” this holiday season, and consider your Christmas gifts covered. 
Price: $279 per night
More like thisFestivals12 Places Around the World That Go All Out With Holiday Light Displays
October 21, 2023
What To Expect at Hotel Vermont, Burlington’s Hippiest Place To Stay
Within seconds of Hotel Vermont’s front doors sliding open, I was greeted by an exuberant man behind a display of free Jasper Hill cheeses. He gave me a chunk practically big enough to be a meal on its own, while I stood there in disbelief that a hotel would just hand out for free the stuff of Vermonters’ dreams. I’d heard rumors for years that Hotel Vermont was secretly a haven for foodies, but this went far beyond what I hoped to find, and I’d barely stepped into the lobby.
I came to Hotel Vermont for a weekend staycation in early fall, which happened to be during the hotel’s 10th anniversary. This chic hotel, beloved by locals, is convenient to everything in Burlington, Vermont’s most populous city. That includes world-class outdoor recreation, shopping ranging from artisan stores to galleries to co-ops, and some of the best eats – and certainly the best restaurant variety – in the state. With iconic Church Street on one side and beautiful Lake Champlain on the other, Hotel Vermont is steps from everything you want to see in the city.
After checking in, I walked to the Burlington farmers’ market with Hotel Vermont’s head chef, Doug. In just 15 minutes, we went from the trendy downtown area to the more industrial South End, known as Burlington’s art district. This historic port used to be full of factories and manufacturing plants, but has been reclaimed as an up-and-coming Bohemian neighborhood.
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Visiting the weekly farmers’ market here is almost a rite of passage, as Vermonters and tourists alike flock in droves to stock up on their favorite kimchis, pastries, homemade pastas, and more. Chef Doug introduced me to a dozen or so different farmers, maple producers, mushroom foragers, and winemakers, all producers of the ingredients to feed hungry guests at Hotel Vermont’s restaurant, Juniper.
Each one discussed their hardships, many of whom were impacted by the state’s devastating flooding in July 2023. But when one crop doesn’t grow, they plant others. It kept Chef Doug’s job interesting, as he depends on a consistent supply of fresh, local ingredients. Countless farms in the Burlington area lost everything in the flooding, but extreme weather was no match for Chef Doug’s culinary skills. His daily mission is to track down Vermonters with access to unique flavors and ingredients, and he does it well.
Unique rooms and local amenities
Photo: Hotel Vermont
Hotel Vermont has 125 guest rooms ranging from queen and double bedrooms to suites. Some rooms have a twin trundle bed, making it a sneaky way to fit the whole family in one space without tripping over extra furniture.
Rooms have local products like Vermont Flannel robes, Lunaroma bath products, and Vermont Soap Company hand soap. There’s even original art in each room. Some of the coolest were the prints from local artist Katie Babic, who makes custom Vermont maps with an inventive method: she stamps them with the stumps of 100-year-old walnut and ash trees. The final products are unique prints of the tree’s many rings. The hotel was so excited by her art that it redesigned the rooms to better highlight the prints.
Custom art isn’t just for the guest rooms. The lobby and common areas are covered in so many paintings and sculptures by Vermont artists that you could spend an hour just touring this hotel-wide museum. The most striking for me was the massive 11-foot mural in the lobby, made entirely of salvaged scrap wood by local artist Duncan Johnson.
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Hotel Vermont encourages guests to stay active with a gym and yoga studio. But it’s all about balance, so you can also order late-night goodies to your room, like warm cookies and milk. The front desk can also send up a Vermont Teddy Bear, if you want to make a new friend.
My favorite amenity was the always-stocked espresso bar on every floor. Most hotels don’t understand that travelers want unlimited cappuccinos at all times, so Hotel Vermont should win an award purely for caring so much about the caffeine-obsessed. Be sure to ask the front desk for some maple syrup to spice up your morning cup.
Standard room rates can range from $220-$550 rooms and $450-$680 for suites, depending on the season. Summer and fall are by far the most popular times to visit Burlington, as well as the most expensive.
Hotel Vermont’s food and drink sceneView this post on Instagram
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Tucked behind the lobby, Hotel Vermont’s onsite restaurant Juniper stretches through most of the ground level and spills out to a large terrace overlooking Lake Champlain. Several long, communal tables fill Juniper’s bar, inspired by the general manager’s childhood in the Netherlands and travels throughout Europe. He enjoyed many meals with strangers who turned into friends, and wanted to bring that same sense of community to the hotel.
The menu at Juniper changes seasonally, or even daily, as Chef Doug works with local farmers and fishers to source the freshest ingredients. I started my late-September visit with a brunch full of in-season flavors: eggs Benedict over grilled zucchini, eggplant, and peppers; plus a must-have maple latte. Dinner that night was equally delicious, with ingredients from the farmers’ market. The heirloom tomato and fresh mozzarella starter was the perfect way to kick the night off, but the real highlight was the gnocchi with fresh chevre, wild mushroom ragout, parsley truffle gremolata, and black truffles. And it was a treat to have met the mushroom forager at the farmers market earlier that day to see his massive finds in real life.
Master bartender Kate provided a much-needed cocktail education and a few tastes of her favorite Vermont spirits, including Barr Hill’s Tom Cat gin and Smugglers’ Notch Distillery vodka. Her partner-in-spirits, Max, whipped up his “Seven Rings” cocktail, a unique spin on the classic Bee’s Knees. This drink made it to the finals of Barr Hill Gin’s first annual cocktail competition, and after a taste, I can confirm it deserved its spot in the finals.
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The same culinary team also managed Bleu Northeast Kitchen next door in the Courtyard Burlington Harbor Hotel. It’s equally tasty, and I loved the brioche French toast layered with macerated berries, granola, whipped cream, and maple syrup.
The energy of Hotel Vermont’s culinary experts is infectious. Both Kate and Max seemed genuinely vibrant and excited about their jobs, which can be tough to find in busy hotels. Ditto for Chef Doug, as he hunts every day for new ingredients, and Assistant General Manager Matt — who, it turns out, was the man who greeted me with a chunk of cheese.
One of the best choices for guests looking to venture elsewhere for dinner is also conveniently next door: Hen of the Wood. It’s been one of Vermont’s highest-regarded farm-to-table restaurants for almost 20 years. My server recommended trying an appetizer of fresh cantaloupe, duck confit, stracciatella, and pickled habanada peppers. They were ingredients I’d never thought to pair together, but what a recommendation it was. For my entree, I went with the handmade pappardelle with cherry tomatoes and Romano beans overflowing with veggies. The scrumptious farm-fresh food and candlelit tavern-style ambiance were the perfect end to a fall weekend in Burlington.
Experiences and activities near Hotel Vermont
Photo: Hotel Vermont
Location is everything in Burlington, a city best explored on foot, and Hotel Vermont knocks it out of the park. Left from the hotel goes to the stunning waterfront; right heads toward the excitement of Church Street. You can’t go wrong with either move.
I borrowed a complimentary bike from the hotel and went toward Lake Champlain. The hotel is a block from a 13-mile waterfront bike path called the Island Line Rail Trail. The route passes remnants of the city’s once-thriving railway history and stunning Adirondack views. You can even pedal to a ferry that connects to the Champlain Islands.
After a pedal, I headed to one of the city’s many breweries. No trip to Vermont is complete without craft beer, as the state has the most craft breweries per capita of any city. I went to Foam Brewery for a refreshing sour in its beer garden. The brewery can only be described as funky, with metal sculptures as tables and greenery climbing in all directions.
For a full DIY beer tour via bike, you can head to the South End, where several popular breweries are tucked behind the rec path. The ultra-trendy Burlington Beer Company recently set up shop in an original 1902 Lumière building (the only one remaining in the world), which produced the first color photographs in America. Nearby is Zero Gravity Brewery, with an always-busy patio and dog-friendly attitude.
Photo: julie deshaies/Shutterstock
In between sips and small bites, I ducked into a few quirky shops in the South End, many of which are women- or minority-owned. I was captivated by their unexpected charms, from the dazzling chandeliers at the Lamp Shop to the whimsically old-fashioned treasures at Barge Canal Market. A true highlight was finding free glass-blowing demonstrations at AO Glass, owned by master artists from Scandinavia.
The Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian-friendly outdoor area, has more than 100 local shops and restaurants, plus lots of public art and fresh flowers. It feels almost European, though Vermonters own almost every business. From the constant flow of foot traffic into famous names like Vermont Flannel, Kiss the Cook, and Smugglers’ Notch Distillery, it’s clear how many of these establishments are must-stops.
October 20, 2023
A New TripAdvisor Reviews Analysis Found the Most Underrated Attraction in Every State
A destination’s top attractions are the most popular for a reason. Though many are worth seeing for a better understanding of a place’s history and culture, they can still feel underwhelming or overcrowded or both. Enough so that travelers want to seek out somewhere that gives a deeper sense of connection.
In the United States, there are lesser-known spots just about everywhere you look. These may not get the same level of hype, but they are no less worthy of a detour. The Hawai’i vacation publication HawaiianIslands.com compiled a list of these spots in each state in what it calls the “Ultimate Hidden Gem Tourist Spot in Every State.”
Infographic: Hawaiianislands.com
The publication did this by finding the top-rated attractions with 100 or fewer reviews on Tripadvisor in every state. When filtering out the less relevant categories like tours and classes, it was left with 14,103 attractions that met the criteria. A breakdown of each attraction followed that led to an exact rating that found beloved places that were less visited, not including popular attractions like museums, parks, gardens, etc. It also did the same for major cities like New York City, Los Angeles, Boston, Philadelphia, and Chicago to get accurate information on these tourist hot spots.
This led to a list of places to put on your travel itinerary. In New York, for example, there’s the jazz spot Bills Place. Boston has Little Brewster Island and Lighthouse. The Chesnut Hill Skyspace in Philadelphia is an instillation created by a contemporary light artist, and the Victory Garden Theater in Chicago or the Greenbar Distillery in Los Angeles both received less love on TripAdvisor compared with what’s on offer..
Or, if you’re looking for something different, you could visit Hawaii’s Hamakua Chocolate Farm or head out to West Virginia’s New River Gorge for a peaceful and uncrowded visit.
The next time you’re planning a getaway, look a little deeper into all that the place you’re visiting has to offer. That means no only seeing those lesser-visited places listed here, but also checking out things like underrated road trips and underrated UNESCO world heritage sites. Those less crowded spots could possibility turn into your favorite attraction the next time you visit.
October 19, 2023
Travel Smarter, Not Harder: How Packing Organizers Can Change Your Journey
Packing for a trip can often feel like tackling a 1000-piece jigsaw. How do you fit all your essentials into one suitcase? How do you prevent your clothes from wrinkling? Or stop your toiletries from leaking? How do you keep your electronics and cables detangled? These are questions that even the most experienced travelers grapple with. But being well-organized isn’t just for the meticulous or those with an affinity for neatness; it’s a critical aspect of stress-free travel that everyone can benefit from. Enter packing organizers — the unsung heroes of travel. These tools are not just about maintaining order in your luggage or being able to quickly locate your items. They maximize space, protect your belongings, and enhance your overall travel experience.
The expert travelers at Matador Network swear by these products. Investing in these essential packing organizers will simplify your packing process and make your travel experience more enjoyable and hassle-free.
Travel wash bagsAnti-wrinkle packing aidsPacking cubesCable organizersCompression sacksShoe and boot bagsOther handy packing organizersTravel toiletry bagsWhether you’re a frequent flyer, a camping enthusiast, or just heading out for a weekend getaway, a travel toiletry bag or dopp kit can make your life easier. These handy bags feature multiple compartments to keep your items organized, from toothbrushes and toothpaste to soap, shampoo, and skincare products. A well-chosen bag keeps your luggage tidy and ensures that your personal care essentials won’t leak over your gear.
Green Guru upcycled sleep pad travel kitSee more photosColorado-based Green Guru designs outdoor and lifestyle bags and accessories made from sustainable and eco-friendly materials. The brand takes old outdoor gear that would otherwise end up in landfills to create new products. For the eco-conscious traveler the Upcycled Sleep Pad Travel Kit is an essential. Constructed primarily from repurposed sleeping pads, tire tubes, and climbing ropes, this kit is a testament to Green Guru’s commitment to sustainability and reducing waste. It’s highly functional, providing ample storage for organizing travel gear, toiletries, or other items typically found in a shave bag. The upcycled materials give the travel kit a rugged, eye-catching appearance with bright, fun colors that make it as stylish as it is functional.
Price: $34.95
Sea to Summit hanging toiletry bag
Photo: REI
See more photosMy family and I have been traveling with Sea to Summit’s hanging toiletry bag for over a year. It’s a lightweight and waterproof organizer that fits all our household essentials. It’s constructed from super-light, strong, and water-resistant Ultra-Sil fabric made with CORDURA Nylon yarn. The bag has a hanging design, so it’s convenient to attach in any bathroom or makeshift wash area during travels. Its compact design also ensures it doesn’t take up too much room, but it’s spacious enough to house all necessary toiletries. Internally, the bag has multiple pockets that provide easy organization. The mesh pockets are also helpful for quickly locating items without having to rummage through the bag. My only niggle is that it does not stand up without aid. So you need to hang it for efficient use.
Katie Scott Aiton
Matador Network, Lifestyle Editor
Price: $49.95
Matador FlatPak soap bar case
Photo: REI
Shampoo and soap bars are great to travel with. They are compact and more environmentally friendly than liquid shampoo and shower gel. These products have come a long way. Many of the best on the market contain natural ingredients, free of harmful chemicals, cleaning your hair and skin without stripping healthy natural oils. One of the remaining hurdles is how to pack bars without damaging the rest of your gear. I’ve used inexpensive plastic containers in the past, but these break with ease during transit. The Matador soap bar case provides a mess-free solution. One of the key features is its Dry-Through Technology, which allows the soap bar to dry through the material even while it’s inside the case. This prevents the soap from becoming mushy, as it would in a traditional plastic holder. This is great for those who often move from one location to another without enough time for their soap bars to dry out completely.
Price: $13.95
Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Hanging Toiletry Kit
Photo: Suzie Dundas
See more photosWhen my old toiletry bag broke on vacation earlier this year, I was quite bummed. It was the right size for both shower items like shampoo and a razor, as well as my makeup and skincare items. So when I finally found a replacement item of the same size — the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Hanging Toiletry Kit, which is only nine inches across but has a 425-cubic-inch capacity — I was thrilled to give it a try.
Fortunately, my enthusiasm wasn’t misplaced. I was able to fit tons in the hanging bag with lots of room to spare; it’s clear it could easily accommodate full-sized bottles and products. It also has smart features you won’t find on a standard toiletry bag, like snaps that allow it to pack into a tight cube while traveling, but unfold and hang so you can access all your items at once when you arrive. The hanging feature is especially nice for small hotel rooms or home rentals with shared bathrooms where you don’t have lots of space to leave items on the sink. Another nice feature is the bungee clips in the center — I used it for my toothbrush, so it didn’t get makeup on it, as well as my razor so I didn’t accidentally cut myself while rooting through the larger pockets.
Despite not being very wide (it’s three inches wide if it’s totally full), it fits everything I need, and it seems well-built and durable like it could hold quite a few pounds of various items. The only complaint I have so far is that the hook on the top doesn’t swivel, so it hands just a touch to the side instead of facing forward. But really, that’s grasping at straws to find a fly. Given the size, usefulness, and fact that it’s only $30 for the large size, it’s kind of a no-brainer for anyone who travels with anything more than a bar of soap.
Price: $30
Anti-wrinkle packing aidsAnti-wrinkle packing aids, like folding boards, offer numerous benefits to frequent travelers. First and foremost, they help maintain the integrity of your clothing by reducing the likelihood of wrinkles and creases, keeping your outfits looking fresh and crisp straight out of your suitcase.
The Eagle Creek Pack-It
Garment FoldersSee more photosA garment folder is very much like a packing cube but for dressier items that need to stay wrinkle-free, like button-down shirts, blouses, and dress pants. The Eagle Creek Pack-It Garment Folders are the most popular garment folders on the market. They come in three sizes (M, L, and XL), depending on your needs, and range in price from $25 to $30 and $35. Eagle Creek’s Garment Folders come with a folding board so you can fold all your previously ironed items neatly before packing them. It’s recommend adding tissue paper between each item to limit wrinkling.
Morgane Croissant
Matador Network, Deputy Editor
Price: From $25
Nomatic Apparel Sleeve [image error] [image error]See more photosI can’t count the number of work trips I’ve taken where I’ve arrived at the hotel less than an hour before a meeting, dinner, or other important function. The time crunch itself isn’t so bad except for one thing: almost without fail, the outfit I’d planned to wear is wrinkled from travel. When I need to be out the door quickly, breaking out the tiny ironing board in the room and going to work on my button-down shirt is less than ideal (I hate wearing moist shirts to awkward social functions). Recently, I purchased the Nomatic Apparel Sleeve to render this problem obsolete.
The sleeve folds to about 18 inches by 12 inches and unfolds to about 18 inches by just under 38 inches. When unfolded, I put in one or two nice button-down shirts on the included hanger hold. I also include a nice pair of slacks or whatever pants I plan to wear first after arriving. I’ve taken the Apparel Sleeve on three trips thus far and each time, my clothes have arrived as crisp as they were when I packed them. No more rushed hotel room ironing sessions. No need to buy clothes made of plastic just because they don’t wrinkle as easy.
Tim Wegner
Matador Network, Transactional Content Editor
Price: $74.99
Thule garment folder
Photo: REI
See more photosI purchased the Thule Garment Folder for work trips. I’ve been caught out too often with hotel stays without a steamer or cringe-worthy costs for pressing clothing. And there’s nothing worse than attending dinner with colleagues in a wrinkled dress. This folder is a game changer. It’s designed to keep clothing organized and wrinkle-free and maximizes space in your luggage. There’s a handy board with easy-follow instructions that allows you to neatly fold up to 12 items, and it’s lightweight and fits into most carry-on luggage.
Katie Scott Aiton
Matador Network, Lifestyle Editor
Price: $31.95
Packing cubesPacking cubes allow you to keep your belongings neatly organized and compartmentalized. This can be especially helpful if you’re packing different types of items or clothing. And by compressing your clothes within the cubes, you can save a significant amount of suitcase space. They also provide an extra layer of protection for delicate items or keep potentially leaky items (like toiletries) away from your clothes.
Thule compression packing cube set
Photo: REI
If you’re a frequent traveler looking to organize and simplify your packing process, the Thule Compression Packing Cube Set is a great investment. They are lightweight, durable, and will help you make the most of your luggage space. The set includes two cubes (one small and one medium), both of which can be compressed to maximize packing space. The durable compression zipper eliminates excess air between clothes, allowing you to fit more items in your luggage. The set is also very stylish. The white color scheme makes it easy to identify your belongings when packing and unpacking.
Price: $44.95
Tortuga packing cubes
Photo: Tortuga
See more photosThe debate over the best way to pack clothes for travel is as loud and annoying as the debate over whether wearing leggings on a hike is inappropriate. Thing is, packing cubes render the argument useless. I acquired the Tortuga Packing Cubes a few years back and have used them to exhaustion ever since. Whether you prefer to roll or fold (or bundle wrap, which is apparently a thing), packing cubes help you keep your clothes organized by garment, while maintaining a “nice and tidy” vibe that’s oh-so-welcoming when you open your pack or suitcase upon arrival.
I fill the Tortuga Packing Cubes the same way each time. In the largest compartment, I roll two or three pairs of pants or shorts and put them in. I also include here a rain jacket or overcoat. In the two smaller cubes, I use one for t-shirts and other casual wear, and the other for socks and underwear. I can easily fit four to five shirts in one cube. In each, I also stuff one-off small clothing items that I may need for the trip. While the cubes aren’t ideal for fancy-pants dress clothes, they’ve helped me streamline my packing routine and keep everything organized while on the go.
Tim Wegner
Matador Network, Transactional Content Editor
Price: $85
Cable organizersFor digital nomads or anyone who travels with electronics cable organizers are essential. There’s nothing worse than rummaging through your luggage detangling chargers or having to fork out for a new charging lead due to wear and tear from being poorly packed. Cable organizers protect your cords from damage, save time by keeping everything in one place, and have additional pockets and compartments, allowing you to store other small items alongside your equipment.
FYY travel cable organizer pouch [image error] [image error]See more photosFor this price point, you don’t have an excuse not to keep your electronics organized while on the go. The pouch is made from high-quality, durable, waterproof Oxford material and features a soft sponge to help secure your gadgets in place. It comes in two sizes. I’ve got the larger of the two. Inside, the pouch features multiple compartments and elastic loops that can hold cables, chargers, earphones, and other electronic accessories. The padding is great because it keeps my plugs and AirPods protected even when I’m running between flights. It also helps me keep track of my Airpod changing cases, which is difficult enough in a home environment, never mind when on the road.
Katie Scott Aiton
Matador Network, Lifestyle Editor
Price: $9.85
Compression sacksCompression sacks help save precious luggage space by reducing the volume of bulkier items like jackets, blankets, and sleeping bags.
Eagle Creek compression sacsSee more photosI recently tried the Eagle Creek compression sacs for a vacation to Albania, they made packing so much easier. They’re solidly built, and I appreciate how they keep my clothes dry. The process is straightforward: pack, zip, and roll to save space. The clear front is a nice touch since I can see what’s inside without opening them. Plus, my clothes aren’t wrinkled when I unpack.
Maddie Gwinn
Matador Network, Video Editor
Price: $35.00
Frelaxy sleeping bag compression sack [image error] [image error]See more photosIf you’re looking for an efficient way to save space when packing your sleeping bag, the Frelaxy compression sack is a must-have purchase. It’s ideal for camping, hiking, and backpacking trips. These sacks compress and reduce the volume of your sleeping bag, allowing you to easily stuff it in your backpack without taking up too much space. It comes in various sizes, ranging from 11L to 52L, and is made of durable, tear-resistant, and water-resistant material, ensuring your sleeping bag stays dry and protected.
Price: $14.99
Shoe and boot bagsREI Co-op shoe bag
Photo: REI
My hiking boots and trail runners are always caked in mud. When at home, I can chuck them into our boot box in the trunk of the car, but when we’re on a multi-day hike or overseas, I pack shoe bags. The REI Co-op’s version is affordable and has a simple design with a handle at the bottom that lets you grab it with ease. It features a mesh panel that allows air to escape and lets you see inside without opening. I also like that the size is adjustable. It fits up to a men’s size 14, but the roll top means you can adjust it to fit all.
Katie Scott Aiton
Matador Network, Lifestyle Editor
Price: $19.95
Other handy packing organizersPacking accessories are a traveler’s best friend, helping keep belongings neat, accessible, and in order during trips. From a compact and vital pill box, gear pockets that provide a home for every gadget, to laundry packs that offer a practical solution for separating dirty clothes, these products will make your journey more enjoyable.
Matador waterproof pill canisterSee more photosYou can purchase a cheap pill box from any major drugstore. But the plastic containers don’t always do well in transit. They can chip, crack, and let in moisture. The last thing you want is to lose vital pills when you’re unable to access your regular doctor. What you need is something reliable and durable. And with Matador’s pill box, you get what you pay for. Waterproof and airtight, it’s designed to keep your medication safe from moisture and other environmental elements. The canister is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around in your pocket or bag, and has a screw-on cap that secures tightly, preventing any accidental spillage.
Price: $19.95
STOJO collapsible sandwich box [image error] [image error]These food travel containers are perfect for packing snacks while hiking or sightseeing or saving leftovers from restaurants (trust me, you’ll want to keep those remaining bread rolls). Silicone-made and collapsible, they are easy to pack and can store both hot and cold foods. We were able to save leftover pieces of pizza without those cardboard to-go boxes and paper bags getting soggy and greasing up our day pack. Highly recommend.
Kelsey Wilking
Matador Network, Email Marketing Specialist
Price: $19.95
Nite Ize RunOff 3-1-1 waterproof pouch
Photo: REI
The Nite Ize RunOff 3-1-1 waterproof pouch offers exceptional protection for your valuables from incidental moisture as well as unexpected rain. It features a simple slide-to-secure zipper that is easy to use and creates a waterproof and dustproof seal. The pouch is tested to IP67, which means you can fully submerge it up to one meter deep for 30 minutes, and it’ll keep everything inside dry. It’s ideal for documentation, electronics, and material first aid items such as bandages and bandaids.
Price: $35.00
REI Co-op laundry pack
Photo: REI
A laundry pack offers a convenient way to keep your dirty and wet stuff separate from your clean clothes. The REI Co-op pack is an essential. To start with, it’s waterproof. So you can get rid of the plastic bag you use for your towel or swimming gear. It has a drawstring closure with a cord lock that keeps your belongings (and their smell) securely contained. There are also handy webbing straps that let you carry it like a backpack and an inside pocket for coins for the laundromat.
Price: $29.95
Haven toothbrush covers [image error] [image error]See more photosThese toothbrush covers work well, are easy to clean, and have excellent airflow, allowing bristles to dry completely. These BPA-free covers fit most toothbrushes and open and close with a spring that makes it easy to use for kids too. Makes for cute stocking stuffers.
Kelsey Wilking
Matador Network, Email Marketing Specialist
Price: $14.99
More like thisTravelHow To Keep Your Clothes Wrinkle-Free While TravelingThese Lake Atitlán and Antigua Hotels Prove Guatemala Aces Boutique Luxury
I can’t help but smile as I glance over at the little pouch filled with worry dolls on the night table next to me. These dolls are my absolute favorite souvenirs from my recent trip to Guatemala. You confide your worries to the tiny dolls before you sleep, tuck them under your pillow, and wake up to find your worries miraculously vanished. It’s a magical tradition that I’ve adopted into my life since visiting Guatemala.
Much of what made my trip to Guatemala unforgettable was the boutique hotels where I stayed: Casa Palopó and Villa Bokéh. Choosing the right hotel can make or break a vacation. These two options in Guatemala cater to slightly different preferences — both are cozy Relais & Châteaux properties, but Casa Palopó dazzles with its Maya-inspired decor and lakeside setting while Villa Bokéh delights with colonial elegance and greenery. After experiencing both, I find it impossible to pick a favorite. But one thing I know for sure is that whether you stay at Casa Palopó, Villa Bokéh, or both, your visit to Guatemala will be one for the books.
Casa Palopó: Cozy luxury on Lake Atitlán
Photo: Bronwyn Knight
When I hopped into my private transfer in Guatemala City, I had no idea that the road to Casa Palopó would be so long and winding. After three hours of driving through the picturesque Guatemalan Highlands, I finally made it to the hotel. It was pitch black outside when I checked into my room. Imagine my surprise the next morning when I woke up and saw Lake Atitlán, the deepest and most beautiful lake in Central America, from my room.
Casa Palopó fully embraces the local culture and heritage, offering a perfect blend of Maya-inspired design and modern amenities. The discreet luxury and attentive service create an intimate atmosphere, making you feel at home. Casa Palopó has only 15 rooms, and each one of them looks unique. The rooms are decorated with vibrant colors and local artwork. Most of the furniture is refurbished, and that adds a touch of charm and character. It looks like every corner of the property has an interesting story to tell.
Photo: Bronwyn Knight
Most of the rooms are located in the main house, but there’s also a recently renovated villa located 150 steps up from the main house. The villa has three additional rooms that are decorated in a more contemporary style using neutral earth tones. These rooms can be booked individually, or you can rent the entire villa. In that case, you’ll have exclusive access to the spacious living room with a fireplace, the dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a stunning infinity pool overlooking Lake Atitlán.
I stayed at the San Pablo Junior Suite, located in the original house. This room has blue stucco walls, timbered ceilings, a king-size bed, and a cozy reading corner. Touches like the painting of a Guatemalan artist hanging above the bed, crafted fabrics, and the little candle on a vintage sewing table that served as a writing desk made me feel like I was staying in an artist’s studio.
My favorite feature of the room was the spacious terrace, with a patio table, a few comfortable chairs, and a breathtaking view of Lake Atitlán. Every morning, I’d wake up early and sit in one of those chairs for a couple of hours, completely mesmerized by the surrounding landscape.
Experiencing Guatemalan culture at Casa Palopó and beyond
Photo: Bronwyn Knight
It’s not just the decor at Casa Palopó that makes you feel immediately welcomed into Guatemalan culture. It’s also the dining experience. The on-site restaurant, 6.8 Palopó, serves Guatemalan-inspired dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. My first-ever meal in Guatemala happened to be there, on the beautiful patio, with colorful candle-lit chandeliers and a view of the lake. Be sure to order must-try dishes such as the Guatemalan ceviche and duck breasts. And don’t even get me started on the banana foster that’s prepared right at your table for dessert. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Room service is also available if you fancy enjoying your meal in bed or on your private terrace.
Casa Palopó also offers a range of on- and off-property activities for guests to connect them with Guatemalan culture, notably boat rides to local villages across the lake. Don’t miss out on the traditional tortilla bar experience where you’ll learn how to make corn tortillas and then try them with various toppings. Those looking for a spiritual experience can also book a Maya blessing ceremony. A shaman will come to the property and perform a sacred ritual at a designated spot — an experience that left a profound impact on me.
When it comes to downtime at the hotel, there are two pools to enjoy, one located at the main building and another one with a hot tub higher up at the villa. You can also pamper yourself with a relaxing spa treatment either in your room or in a small on-site treatment room.
Getting to Casa Palopó
Photo: Bronwyn Knight
Getting to Casa Palopó from Guatemala City is an adventure in itself. It’s a three-hour drive, but the picturesque landscapes along the way will make the journey feel like a breeze. And if you’re up for an even more thrilling experience, you can opt to arrive in style via helicopter.
Price per night: From $218
Villa Bokéh: A lush oasis in Antigua
Photo: Bronwyn Knight
My adventure in Guatemala didn’t end at Casa Palopó. I left Lake Atitlán and headed toward Antigua to spend a few days at Villa Bokéh, a new luxury hotel located on the outskirts of the city. Villa Bokéh is a colonial-style hacienda surrounded by a lush six-acre garden, with a picturesque lake in the center that opens to views of the Agua volcano. It was cloudy during most of my stay, but the skies cleared up on my last day, finally revealing the majestic peak.
At Villa Bokéh, you hear nothing but the sound of birds chirping and water running in the streams and fountains. Every morning, I’d take a walk around the gardens, watch the turtles and fish swim in the lake, and take in the peaceful surroundings. It truly feels like you’ve been transported to a secluded oasis, far away from the hustle and bustle of the world.
Photo: Bronwyn Knight
It helps that Villa Bokéh has just 15 tastefully designed rooms, each with its own unique features, decor style, and color palette. Two common features of all the rooms are the abundance of art and access to outdoor spaces, be it a balcony or a private terrace. The rooms at Villa Bokéh strike a perfect balance between elegant Guatemalan colonial architecture and modern amenities. Every detail has been carefully designed, from the plush bedding and pillow menu to the thoughtful welcome notes, turn-down service, and delightful surprise gifts.
I stayed in the Lino Junior Suite, a spacious boho-chic room with a luxurious king-sized bed, comfortable sitting area, and private terrace complete with a fire pit. This is the only room at the property that has an outdoor bathtub, and I made sure to set aside a couple of hours to enjoy it. Villa Bokéh takes luxury a step further by offering a bath menu. A simple call to the front desk allows you to choose your desired bath experience and schedule it at your convenience. Upon returning to your room, you find a perfectly prepared hot bath waiting for you.
Villa Bokéh’s commitment to wellness, from the restaurant to the spa
Photo: Bronwyn Knight
The bath menu is one example of Villa Bokéh’s healthful, restorative amenities. Another noteworthy feature is the complimentary morning and night ritual, which includes a selection of drink options such as ginger shots, green juice, hot water with lemon, or refreshing celery juice in the morning, as well as a choice of the signature Bokeh tea, a warm eye mask, and a diffuser with essential oils for the night. The best part is that you get to set the time for these rituals, ensuring they fit your schedule perfectly.
The restaurant at Villa Bokéh — which serves breakfast, brunch, dinner, and room service — is similarly wholesome. Its talented executive chef, Marcos Sáenz, surprises the palate with an elevated presentation of the local cuisine. All the food I ate there was flavorful, but the highlights were the creamy corn soup and the tortellini with loroco, a traditional ingredient in Guatemalan cuisine that comes from the unbloomed flowers of a climbing vine. If you’re looking for a true farm-to-table experience, in the morning you can gather a few eggs from the chicken coop and have them cooked for your breakfast.
Photo: Bronwyn Knight
My favorite drink at Villa Bokéh was the signature bougainvillea lemonade. Not only does it look pretty and taste refreshing, but it’s also said to have numerous medicinal benefits — it can detoxify your body, treat coughs, relieve sore throats, and much more.
The rest of the amenities at Villa Bokéh continue the wellness and relaxation trend. You can swim in the pool, soak in the jacuzzi, get a relaxing massage at the spa, go on a romantic boat ride, or have a picnic in the garden. And of course, Antigua is only a 10-minute drive away, so you can easily spend a day in the city, go on a guided tour, or visit the local shops and eateries.
Getting to Villa BokéhPhoto: Bronwyn Knight
Getting to Villa Bokéh is easier than getting to Casa Palopó. La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City is the closest airport to the hotel. You can request the staff at Villa Bokéh to arrange your transportation to and from the airport. There are two options available: a private car transfer, which takes approximately one hour, or a helicopter transfer, which would only take 15 minutes.
Price per night: From $238
More like thisTravelThe Ultimate Week in Guatemala's Lake Atitlán, From Sunrise Hikes and Cliff Jumping To Cacao TastingCycle, Paddle, and Hike Through Europe on an Active River Cruise
Standing astride a bike on a sunny morning in Austria, I waved goodbye to the AmaSonata, the river cruise ship I’d been on for the last few days, as it continued sailing west on the Danube River.
“There’s no going back now, “ I thought to myself. I tightened the strap of my bike helmet, slung my daypack over both shoulders, and pushed off.
Following a local guide, our small group of passengers from AmaWaterways’ “Melodies of the Danube” river cruise began pedaling through the scenery of Austria’s Wachau Valley. Brimming with vineyards, castles, and gorgeous vistas and views, the valley is one of the most beautiful stretches of the entire Danube. Because of this, it’s been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000.
For the next few hours, we followed the river as it snaked through the countryside, riding on paved bike paths, cobblestone streets, and modern roads. Our group stopped periodically to snap pictures and catch our breath, but otherwise, we maintained a pretty quick pace.
Photo: starmaro/Shutterstock
After a roughly 15-mile ride, we met back up with the ship at the next port. Hungry and tired from the morning’s exercise, I didn’t even bother changing out of my shorts and t-shirt before joining the remaining passengers, who’d instead enjoyed a quiet morning of scenic sailing onboard the ship, for lunch.
This port-to-port cycling excursion is one example of the many ways travelers can stay active on a European river cruise. Though these trips have long had a reputation for being relatively sedentary, that’s changing. River cruise lines are increasingly attempting to convince travelers who like to keep moving to join them on board. On modern European river cruises, you might do yoga before breakfast, hike to a historic fortress before lunch, and play pickleball before dinner.
Here’s what to know about the trend toward activity-focused European river cruises.
Mix-and-match daily excursions
Photo: rui vale sousa/Shutterstock
River cruising is an easy, stress-free way to travel. You only have to unpack once, you get to enjoy fine dining at every meal, and you can let someone else plan all the activities while you travel from city to city. You’ll awake in a new European city most mornings, and explore them on guided tours.
Those factors are what initially made European river cruises popular, and they’re still all true. However, these days, guests can add a wide range of adventurous activity options at every port, like bike rides through national parks, invigorating vineyard hikes, guided kayaking adventures, and everything in between. Guests are able to choose different activities each day, allowing for a fully active adventure or rest days alternated with exploration.
That’s also the premise of Avalon Waterways’ “Active & Discovery” cruises, first launched in 2017 on the Danube River. The brand has since added them to many major European waterways.
On my Danube cruise, I hiked through vineyards one day, and toured a mustard mill the next. I casually sipped beers at a 350-year-old brewery one afternoon, then braved the streets of Frankfurt on a bike the following morning. Each evening, I returned to the ship in time to freshen up, enjoy a cocktail, and tuck in for a multi-course dinner. It was an ideal blend of soft adventure, culture, and relaxation.
You can stay active, even without guided toursView this post on Instagram
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Fortunately, these active offerings are not limited to organized shore excursions. Many European river cruises, including many from AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Uniworld, Tauck, and Emerald, now have bikes on board. Guests can borrow them and explore cities on their own while the ships are docked. Many ships even offer an e-bike option for gentler rides.
On most active European river cruises, the ships themselves are also designed to appeal to guests who like to keep moving. Daily yoga classes are common, and many ships have dedicated activity staff to lead pilates, cardio, dance, and other group fitness classes. Some vessels also have small gyms. And occasionally, you’ll find a ship with even more unique features. The AmaMagna, for example, has a full-sized pickleball court on its top deck. And don’t worry about disrupting other guests’ peace and quiet – there aren’t any staterooms below it.
Soft adventure is more common, but ultra-active trips are growing
Photo: nnattalli/Shutterstock
Most active European river cruises focus on soft adventure, which generally means lower-risk activities that require minimal athletic or technical skill. That means almost anyone can participate in most of the adventures; you don’t need to be a weekly road biker or have ever picked up a kayak paddle before. But some European river cruises are beginning to offer slightly more advanced excursions.
AmaWaterways works with BackRoads to offer European river cruises focused on distance cycling, with daily rides tailored for beginners (with rides as short as 10 miles) up to experts (50+ miles per day). Uniworld offers similar cycling trips in collaboration with Butterfield & Robinson.
October 18, 2023
8 Ways Skiing in Switzerland Is so Much Better Than the US
North America has some top-tier, steep-and-deep resorts, such as Jackson Hole in Wyoming or Powder Mountain in Utah (considered one of the state’s best-kept secrets). But with lift ticket prices creeping ever higher (fact: it can cost twice as much to ski stateside for a day than it does in Europe), there’s never been a more attractive time to set an airfare alert and chase fresh tracks across the Atlantic.
And where better to head than the birthplace of alpine winter tourism? With its sky-high mountains, majestic glaciers, and glittering lakes, Switzerland is a land of superlatives blessed by nature that boasts nine of the 10 highest peaks in the Alps – including the iconic Matterhorn on the Swiss-Italian border. The pedigree of ski resorts is legendary, too, and there are more than 300 places to go skiing in Switzerland. The country’s resorts cater to all levels, from beginners to seasoned off-piste (backcountry) skiers, and many are easily accessible by train from Switzerland’s international airports in Geneva and Zurich.
Throw in winter comfort food classics (fondue!), still little-known-but-superb local wine (hello, après ski), abundant snowfall, plus villages straight out of a storybook, and it’s a no-brainer why skiing in Switzerland should be on bucket lists this winter.
The sheer scale and size of skiable terrain is like no other
Photo: Pecold/Shutterstock
Skiing in Switzerland is as breathtaking as it gets. And with high-altitude resorts – many close to 10,000 feet above sea level — fresh powder is a near-guarantee. But in addition to heaps of snow, well-groomed trails, and world-class facilities, the sheer volume of terrain and vertical drop is hard to beat.
The top lift at Switzerland’s highest resort (Zermatt, in Canton Valais) tops out at 12,792 feet above sea level. While that’s comparable to the US’s highest ski resort (Breckenridge, whose summit sits at 12,998 feet), Zermatt’s peak is the beginning of the vertical run with the biggest drop in the entire world, inviting skiers to lose almost 7,739 feet of vert in a single run.
Vast interconnected regions where you can ski for miles also sets Switzerland apart. The longest run stateside is a 7-mile expert run from the top of Rendezvous Mountain at Jackson Hole, Wyoming. In Switzerland, the Klein Matterhorn to Valtournenche (rated red, or comparable to a difficult blue in the US) is 13 miles long and crosses the Swiss-Italian border, running from Zermatt, Switzerland, to Cervinia, Italy.
Skiing in Switzerland is (way) cheaper than in the US
St. Moritz, where a life ticket is a fraction of the cost you’d pay in the American West. Photo: Oscity/Shutterstock
Booking a flight to Europe might seem extravagant – until you start crunching the numbers. Just take a look at pricing for a single-day pass this winter at Vail Resort in Colorado, which can be as much as $299 for a single-day pass (not including any lessons or rentals). In the 1980s and 1990s, family ski trips were pricey, but still doable. These days, spending time on the mountain stateside feels more like a club for the one percent.
Nearly everywhere in Europe will be cheaper than in the US, including Switzerland, if you plan smartly and buy tickets in advance online. Even skiing in Switzerland at notoriously glitzy resorts like St. Moritz and Gstaad is cheaper. You’ll pay between $84 and $66, respectively, for an adult weekend day pass. Things jump a bit at Zermatt to $90, but it’s still a steal compared to places like Palisades Tahoe and Breckenridge in the US, where single-day rates can be well over $200.
You can save further on skiing in Switzerland with the Magic Pass, a multi-resort season pass with access to 69 ski areas. Saving on accommodations is also possible if you look for deals like the Sleep+Ski package, currently offered by 100 hotels in the Engadin region. With the package, hotels can be as low as $150 US per night, including your lift ticket for the day.
Compare that to the cheapest ski-in, ski-out resort hotel in Lake Tahoe on a weekend (you’re looking at $300 or $400 a night, plus another $50 in resort fees), and that Zurich flight probably doesn’t sound like so much of a splurge. Resort food can get spendy, but consider booking “half-board” (a European term for hotel stays that include both breakfast and dinner). Just pack picnic lunches, or hit the grocery store on your way into the resort. That way, you can save your Euros for the all-important après-ski action or the odd dinner out.
You don’t need a car
Photo: s74/Shutterstock
With fast and frequent service, the SBB rail system makes a convenient, climate-conscious, and scenic case for traveling car-free within Switzerland, especially as many resorts can be reached directly from Geneva and Zurich airports. Trains are equipped with generous ski and board storage space, views along the way are outstanding, and transfers run with Swiss precision.
Big-name destinations with easy access via Zurich include Laax (an hour or so), Gstaad (just over two hours) and St. Moritz (four hours, including one change). Geneva is the gateway airport for resorts in the canton of Valais, including Saas Fee, Verbier, and the “Matterhorn Ski Paradise” of Zermatt. Trains are affordable, too; expect to pay about $36 for a second-class point-to-point ticket between Geneva and Verbier. The train takes 2 hours and 20 minutes, including the cable-car ride from Le Châble to Verbier village.
For non-ski days, consider riding the legendary Glacier Express sightseeing train, running since 1930. Board in either Zermatt or the tiny resort spa town of St. Moritz and watch the Swiss countryside unfold over the journey. If you’re willing to splurge, you can opt for a five-course wine-pairing menu for about $500 per person.
There’s also the Orient Express-style Belle Époque, traveling to Gstaad via Lake Geneva.
You can ski between three different countries
Photo: Vvoe/Shutterstock
When you go skiing in Switzerland, you can have lunch in France but be back to Switzerland in time for après. It’s possible when you ski at one of the 12 resorts near the French-Swiss border, known as Portes du Soleil (“Doors to the Sun”). It runs for about 400 miles between Mount Blanc and Lake Geneva, and is serviced by three cable cars, 10 gondolas, 76 chair lifts and 125 surface lifts (magic carpets and J-bars and such). Combined, it’s the second-largest ski area in the world.
But it’s not the only place where you can make a border crossing on skis. From Zermatt, you can ski to Cervinia, on the Italian side of the Matterhorn. You’ll need to buy the Unlimited Cervino Paradise pass to explore the combined 223-mile region (and keep track of the time to avoid missing the last lift back).
From the high-alpine village of Samnaun on the eastern end of Switzerland, you can ski into the Austrian resort of Ischgl. You’ll need the Silvretta Ski-Arena Samnaun/Ischgl pass ($79 per day).
Backcountry skiing is A-ok
Photo: Alex Jackson/Shutterstock
Many US resorts border land managed by the Forest Service, so at many resorts, ski patrol takes a dim view of ducking the rope to access the backcountry. Depending on the resort, it may be fine, or it may result in hefty fines and $50,000+ bill for a rescue operation, should you need it.
But in Switzerland, it’s cool to ski away off the official trails. The US calls it backcountry and sidecountry skiing; in Europe, it’s called skiing off-piste (“piste” is the term for official, mapped ski runs). Remember that off-piste terrain isn’t groomed or monitored in any way, so it should only be attempted by expert skiers and riders with the proper safety gear (beacon, probe, etc).
Bruson, Verbier, and Grindelwald are especially well-known for backcountry riding, and each one offers various technique and safety classes and programs for beginner to advanced backcountry skiers and riders.
Après-ski in Switzerland is unlike anywhere else in the worldView this post on Instagram
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(@farinet_verbier)
Après ski is an essential part of skiing in Switzerland. And after a day on the slopes, parties can range from refined — perhaps with an Aperol spritz or a few glasses of champagne — to truly wild, Jägermeister-fueled affairs.
Post-ski socializing usually starts when the lift stops running around 4 PM and can stretch into the early hours of the morning. Kicking things off with a warm cocktail is considered traditional – perhaps a kafi luz (coffee with fruit brandy), but mulled wine is also quite popular. Ask for vin chaud in French or glühwein in German. It pairs quite well with fondue.
Sophisticated après locations include the Mountain Club at El Paradiso in St. Moritz (or the rustic-chic Alpina Hütte) and Chesa Grischuna, a chalet with Old Hollywood credentials in Klosters. For something on the buzzier side with DJs and live music, check out Le Farinet or La Le Rouge, two standouts in Verbier, known for epic après ski. Another resort noted for its lively nightlife is Flims, where much of the après -ski action goes down at the Arena Bar inside the Arena Hotel at the base. In Zermatt, dance parties can rage until dawn at the Broken Bar Disco at Hotel Post.
Swiss ski resort food is so, so much better than the US
Photo: KPG-Payless2/Shutterstock
Switzerland is unbeatable when it comes to cheese and chocolate. It’s a gourmet paradise – there are currently 138 Michelin-starred restaurants across the country – with dishes influenced by French, German and Italian culinary traditions.
Graubünden is famous for its air-dried beef (bündnerfleisch) and walnut cake (engadine), while specialties from the only Italian-speaking canton (Ticino) include polenta and risotto. In French-speaking Geneva, expect to see plenty of longeole sausage flavored with fennel seeds, while Fribourg is famous for the Gruyère cheese used in the renowned national dish: fondue. It’s one of the coziest winter foods and an essential part of the experience of skiing in Switzerland.
Among international experts, Swiss wine is still a bit of an insider secret, with most of the exports going only to Germany. But the country is home to six stellar wine-growing regions. Vaud is best known for chasselas wine used in fondue, Neuchâtel for ruby-red pinot noirs, and Ticino for merlots, thanks to its Mediterranean-esque climate.
Switzerland’s villages and Christmas markets are stunning
Photo: Buffy1982/Shutterstock
America might have a handful of European-inspired ski towns, like Colorado’s Vail and Sun Valley in Utah, but nothing exudes old-world charm like a storybook Swiss alpine village filled with snow-dusted, wooden chalets. Visit during the holidays, and the country’s famed Christmas markets only elevate the Yuletide magic, transforming towns from late November through December 24.
Standouts include the long-established market in Zurich’s Old Town, while Montreux claims to have one of the prettiest in Europe. Ski resorts get in on the action, too, with a Christmas market held past New Years in Villars (dating to the 12th century) and postcard-perfect Saas-Fee (a.k.a. “The Pearl of the Alps.”) It sits at the foot of the highest mountain in Switzerland, with a festive market that transforms the square with twinkling lights, a rideable Christmas train, artisan markets, and huts stocked with plenty of traditional glühwein.
United Airlines Is Changing Its Boarding Order, and It Makes Aisle Seats Far Worse
Every frequent traveler worth their salt knows that the best place to seat on an airplane is in the aisle. You can get in and out of your seat whenever you need to use the bathroom or stretch out your legs, and you can be one of the first ones to get out of the plane when the ride is over. Detractors of this rock-solid theory tend to bring up how it’s a shame to miss the lovely aerial views out the windows, but I say that those views are not nice enough to make anyone of sound mind want to be crammed against the cabin wall with nowhere to escape. Let’s not even talk about the middle seat which, I suspect, is an ongoing social and physical experiment meant to determine how easily you can crush people’s body and spirit at once.
But aisle sitters, like me and every other superior traveler out there, may soon need to reconsider their position — literally.
United Airlines is so keen to shave just two minutes off the boarding process that it is set to start boarding economy passengers starting with the window seats, followed by middle seats, and finally aisle seats in a boarding process called WILMA (an erroneous acronym meant to refer to Window-Middle-Aisle.) WILMA boarding is scheduled to start on October 26, 2023.
The idea, in itself, is a good one. When window seats board first, there’s no passengers seating in the middle and aisle seats, preventing the whole mess of having people get up from their seat to let others get to their own. The process will seemingly be more orderly and should prevent blockage in the aisle.
But while order and a faster boarding process are positive changes, there’s something a lot darker coming down the pike for aisle sitters: no overhead bin space.
With prices to check a bag remaining high, travelers will continue to bring their larger carry-ons with them and take the risk of having to gate check their bag if there isn’t enough space. That means that boarding last will always inherently carry some risk, and with this change, the risk falls more squarely on those who pick an aisle seat. So the very people who have been carefully scheming to get out of the plane first will be the ones who will have to check in their luggage — and wait for them patiently on the other end.
This Massachusetts Hotel Was Just Ranked the Country’s Most Haunted
Spooky season is upon us. While many get into the spirit by hanging decorations, going to Halloween parties, or taking on the scariest haunted houses, there’s a more immersive ghostly activity to partake in: staying at a real-life haunted hotel. Historic Hotels of America recently ranked the most haunted hotels in the country for those looking to experience the paranormal in a historic location.
These top 25 most haunted hotels are sites where not only historical monuments are located, but the hotels mentioned are where guests and employees keep the haunted going by passing down spooky stories of what came before. Sometimes that’s Revolutionary War soldiers who don’t seem to want to leave this plane of existence, other times it’s apparitions of presidents and other important figures. And don’t forget the tall tales of never-to-be brides that leave bumps and footsteps in the night.
The Concord’s Colonial Inn in Concord, Massachusetts, is the most haunted hotel in the ranking. It opened in 1716, and part of this inn was privately owned by Dr. Timothy Minot. During the Revolutionary War, part of the Concord Colonial Inn was used as a medical practice and was where Dr. Timothy Minot operated and aided Continental soldiers who were injured in the Battles of Lexington and Concord. Soldiers were brought to Dr.Timothy, where he used what is now the Liberty Room as a hospital, and the operating room is now known as Room 24. On a less grusome note, the inn also served as a variety store and residence where Henry David Thoreau stayed while he attended Harvard. Many guests, as well as employees, have spotted spirits throughout the Concord Colonial Inn. Room 24 is the infamous room with the most ghost sightings and activity.
Many have seen a sighting of an older woman and a tall, slim man with a top hat sighting in the room, and many believe this to be former resident Henry David Thoreau and his aunt. Others have spotted a young girl wearing a bonnet walking around the hotel’s front desk area, or appropriations of ghosts in 18th-century attire sitting in the Liberty Room. Books, decor, and other items have been reported as falling from shelves seemingly on their own. Along with different odd experiences like hearing voices when no one is there, things going missing, and randomly turning up in strange places.
While the Colonial Inn took the top spot, there are haunted hotels across the country to stay at year-round.
The 2023 Top 25 Historic Hotels of America Most Haunted Hotels ListConcord’s Colonial Inn: Concord, Massachusetts (1716)The Omni Homestead Resort: Hot Springs, Virginia (1766)Historic Inns of Annapolis: Annapolis, Maryland (1772)The Red Lion Inn Stockbridge, Massachusetts (1773)The Sayre Mansion: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (1858)The Menger Hotel: San Antonio, Texas (1859)Hotel Monteleone: New Orleans, Louisiana (1886)1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa: Eureka Springs, Arkansas (1886)Jekyll Island Club Resort: Jekyll Island, Georgia (1887)Casa Monica Resort and Spa: St. Augustine, Florida (1888)Hotel del Coronado: Coronado, California (1888)Airlie: Warrenton, Virginia (1899)Omni Mount Washington: Bretton Woods, New Hampshire (1902)Omni Grove Park Inn: Ashville, North Carolina (1913)Claremont Club and Spa, A Fairmont Hotel: Berkeley, California (1915)La Fonda on the Plaza: Santa Fe, New Mexico (1922)The Emily Morgan San Antonio, a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel: San Antonio, Texas (1924)Hawthorne Hotel: Salem, Massachusetts (1925)The Hotel Viking: Newport, Rhode Island (1926)Hotel Saranac, Curio Collection by Hilton: Saranac Lake, New York (1927)Hassayampa Inn: Prescott, Arizona (1927)Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center: Baton Rouge, Louisiana (1927)Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa: Sonoma, California (1927)The Wort Hotel: Jackson, Wyoming (1941)Tubac Golf Resort and Spa: Tubac, Arizona (1959)
All the Best Hair Products, Tools, and Accessories You Need While Traveling
Just because you’re on the road doesn’t mean that you have to let your beauty routine go. No matter what judgy, hard-core travelers say, you won’t earn extra travel credits for never shampooing or running a brush through your hair. Lack of space in your luggage is not an excuse for not bringing your favorite products, hair tools, or accessories — there is travel-size everything these days. And even if you don’t have access to running water or electrical outlets, you can look like you just got walked out of the salon thanks to cordless travel hair tools, dry shampoo, and more.
We hope you love the hair products, accessories, and tools we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Travel-size hair productsTravel hair toolsHair accessories for travelersTravel-size hair productsTravel-size dry shampoo
@acurebeauty In search of a non-aerosol, benzene-free dry shampoo? Look no further!We have two easy to use and fast acting dry shampoos to fit your hair color formulated with clean, natural ingredients to refresh your lucious locks. #AcureBeauty #benzenefree #benzenefreedryshampoo #cleanhaircare #dryshampoo #veganhaircare #nonaerosoldryshampoo ♬ original sound – JP
Dry shampoo is not only useful to make you hair look clean when you haven’t had the time/opportunity to shampoo, but it also helps with volume for those days when your hair is flat. Most dry shampoos come in aerosol containers, which are treated in the same way as liquids by TSA, i.e. you can’t bring more than 3.4 ounces of it.
Klorane’s dry shampoo with oat milk is very gentle, works for all hair types, and cleans your hair without water in just two minutes. Klorane’s dry shampoo with oat milk is available for both dark and light hair and comes in a spray or in a non-aerosol container (just squeeze the bottle to puff out the dry shampoo onto your roots.) Acure’s dry shampoo is another very popular option and one that is a little easier to find in North America. It comes in a non-aerosol bottle, and just like Klorane’s, it’s very gentle and caters to both dark hair (blue bottle) or all hair types (yellow bottle). Both Klorane and Acure’s dry shampoos are vegan, use clean ingredients, and come in travel-size containers.
While some complain that dry shampoo leaves their hair powdery, most often, it’s just a matter of adjusting the amount you use and shaking out the excess with your hand or a hair dryer with your head down.
Shampoo and conditioner bars
@kitsch packing our bags rn with these products
The best way to get around TSA’s liquids rule is to either check a bag full of your favorite full-size hair products, or outsmart the system by purchasing shampoo and conditioner bars. That way, you’ll be able to bring as many as you want and you’ll be doing the planet a favor by cutting on plastic bottles. While in the past shampoo and conditioner bar offerings were limited, today, there are bars for every hair type under the sun, including coily hair, dry hair, etc.
Naturél offers solid, made-in-the-USA hair care products for all hair types and is vegan and cruelty-free. Some reviewers complain about the strong fragrances used in Naturél products, so if you’re sensitive to strong scents, keep that in mind. Another one of the most popular brands of solid shampoo and conditioner on the market right now is Kitsch. It offers a variety of fun-shaped shampoo and conditioner bars that are vegan, cruelty-free, and made in the USA, some of which are even scent-free.
Some complain that shampoo and conditioner bars tend to be used up faster than products in bottles, but it’s a problem that can be easily remedied. Instead of lathering the bar directly in your hair, do so in your wet hands and only then apply the product to you hair. If you let water run over the bar, it’ll sud away into the drain.
Buy Naturél’s shampoo and conditioner bars Now
Buy Kitsch’s shampoo and conditioner bars Now
Travel hair toolsAll-in-one hair tools
@imanogundeko Using the Shark Flexstyle for the first time! Some key thoughts: this was very seamless to use, from blow drying to stretching the hair to curling. Using the curlers took a few tries to get but then it went by super fast. You want to hold the wand on the heat setting for 10 seconds and then hold the cool setting for 10 seconds before you release the curl. I used the tool on the highest heat and speed setting the entire time. I’ve since washed my hair and haven’t noticed any damage so far. Have you tried this? Did it work for you? Let me know! #curlyhairblowout #sharkflexstyletutorial ♬ original sound – Iman – ur fave Chicago girl
If you like to change your hairstyle a lot, say from a straight mane to soft curls to a voluminous blow-out, you should splurge in an all-in-one hair tool. Rather than having (and paying for) three or four separate tools, like a hair dryer, a curling iron, a flat iron, etc., you can carry (and purchase) just the one with the attachments you favor.
The two big names on the market for all-in-one hair tools are the Shark FlexStyle and Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete. Both have been thoroughly compared and tested by beauty influencers all over the internet and it’s hard to judge which one is best — they are both excellent and roughly the same small size and weight. Both can be customized to your hair type so you have the attachments you need (from volumizing round brushes to curling air wrappers and more), but Shark’s product is the only one offering a proper hair dryer function, as well as a diffuser attachment for curly and coily hair. Note that the Shark FlexStyle starts at $299, while the Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler starts at $599, a considerable difference for very similar products.
Buy the Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete Now
Travel hair dryer
@jacmystyle THIS HAIR DRYER IS SO INSANE! 11 MINUTES & I achieved striaight hair r u kidding?! I’m obsessed! @Shark Home #sponsoredbyshark #sharkhairdryer ♬ original sound – Jac
There are dozens of travel hairdryers available on the market, but not all hair dryers are the same. If a hair dryer is an indispensable tool for you to feel good about how you look, and if you use one every day, several times per day, you should splurge for something of good quality.
The highly rated Shark HD120 BRN HyperAIR Ultra Fast is one of the top travel blow dryer on the market. It comes with the two attachments of your choice among three options: a concentrator, diffuser, or styling brush. Or you can get all three of them for a little more money ($185 instead of $159). The Shark HD120 BRN HyperAIR Ultra Fast is popular for drying hair extremely fast without creating heat damage.
While it does not fold, this hair dryer is perfect for travel as it measures just 4.92 x 2.95 x 11.02 inches. Note that it weighs 1.65 pounds, which seems very little to carry in a luggage, but some reviewers complain that it is hard to hold it up for too long.
Buy the Shark HD120 BRN HyperAIR Ultra Fast Now
The best travel-friendly hair straighteners
@leanneeverett Which one are you? Straight/Curly?The #DysonCorrale does both in half the time!
Thanks to the flexing plates and NO CORD
Styling my hair is so effortless and enjoyable now! I immediately noticed my hair feels baby smooth using the Corrale. I never had to go over any section of my hair twice, It’s definitely less damaging!! Plus, I love that I can take it with me on-the-go! #WhichDyson4U #DysonHair #dysonhairtutorial #dysonhairtip #leanneeverett ♬ original sound – LEANNE
777
If a flat iron is your tool of choice for straightening your hair or creating curls, then you should go cordless — it’s a lot easier to use, you can fix your hair anywhere, and it’s a breeze to pack, even in a carry-on. Cordless hair straighteners are getting very common so the choice is vast: From the $471.99 Dyson Corrale Hair Straightener to the better rated $69.99 Zavarea Cordless Hair Straightener. The Zavarea Cordless Hair Straightener is 12.4 x 1.34 x 1.34 inches and weighs just 0.97 pounds (The Dyson is 11.5 x 1.6 x 1.6 inches and weighs 1.23 pounds.) It has a 40-minute battery power (10 minutes more than the Dyson) and heats up in just 60 seconds. You can charge it up with a USB or USB-C cable in just 40 to 60 minutes and it comes in a heat resistant pouch that you will barely notice in your luggage. And make sure to use the airplane mode button when flying so it does not accidentally turn on while you’re in the air.
The only complaint about the Zavarea Cordless Hair Straightener is the size of the plates — they are a little small.
Buy the Dyson Corrale Hair Straightener Now
Buy the Zavarea Cordless Hair Straightener Now
The best heatless curlers
@brirubinich Replying to @devmcconnell braiding your heatless curler into your hair makes the curler stay in place all night and leaves my hair frizz freeusing the most comfortable to sleep in curling kit from @kitsch !! #heatlesscurls #heatlesshair #heatlesshairstyles #heatlesswaves #heatlessblowout #heatlesscurlsovernight #heatlesshairstyle #heatlessovernightcurls #kitschpartner #kitschheatlesscurls ♬ original sound – Bri Rubinich
They are multiple ways to curl your hair without heat. You can use low-budget methods by using socks, scrunchies, and clips, or you can the trendy route and get yourself a satin heatless curler. A satin heatless curler resembles a long satin cotton-stuffed sausage which you place on top of your head with a clip. Once pinned down, each extremity of the satin banger should hang on either side of your face so you can wrap your hair around it and tie it with the satin scrunchies provided with the kit. Keep it on for a few hours (or, even better, overnight) and you should wake up with lovely, soft curls. Satin heatless curlers kits are very easy to transport and don’t require a plug, so they’re perfect to use while traveling — some even use them during long flights. Kitsch’s heatless curling set is the leader on the market with glowing reviews and the very affordable price of $15.98.
Wrapping your hair around a heatless curler is slippery, and the whole process is a learning curve — but pratice makes perfect! Also, some reviewers find that sleeping with a heatless curler uncomfortable, especially if you don’t sleep on your back. Other heatless curling tools exists, including flexirods, rollers, zigzag curlers, etc. but the satin heatless curler is likely the most easily transportable and faster way to get curls.
Buy Kitsch’s heatless curling set Now
Hair accessories for travelersThe best shower capView this post on Instagram
A post shared by Glow by Daye (@glowbydaye)
The main problem with most shower caps, whether they are the ones you get for free at hotels or the ones you purchase at the drug store, is the elastic band. It’s either too tight or too large, and if it’s the right size, it wears out so fast that, in no time at all, it does not hold your hair any longer, defeating the purpose of a shower cap altogether. Enter Glow by Daye’s Satin Lined Shower Cap, a revolution in the world of shower caps. Not only is it adjustable with a drawstring so you can always make it fit to you head, but it also caters to a population ignored by other shower cap makers: Those with lots of voluminous hair. Because this shower cap is satin-lined, you hair does not come out all frizzy from your ablutions. For just $19.99, you get a shower cap that does the job, that looks great (there are lot of patterns available), and that will last you more than just a few weeks.
Buy Glow by Daye’s Satin Lined Shower Cap Now
Great hair tiesView this post on Instagram
A post shared by Goody Hair (@goodyhair)
While hair ties may look unimportant to many, those with long hair know that good hair ties are worth their weight in gold. Ideally, a good hair tie will hold you hair in place no matter the style you choose, will not hurt upon removal, and will leave no dent in your mane.
Goody Ouchless Women’s Polyband Elastic Hair Ties fit two of those criteria: They hold your hair in place all day, and they don’t hurt when you take them off. The Goody Ouchless Women’s Polyband Elastic Hair Ties come in small plastic bags that contain 150 strong and durable polybands. The elastic ties are small, but they extend a lot if you need them to — although they won’t fit around your wrist for safekeeping. Goody Ouchless Women’s Polyband Elastic Hair Ties ($3.28 for a pack of 150) come in black and transparent to blend in with any hair colors. For those who have thicker, voluminous hair, go for Kitsch’s Spiral Hair Ties ($6.12 for a pack of eight) — they fit all the ethos of a good hair tie listed above, can match any hair colors (from black to very blond), and are extremely durable.
Buy Goody Ouchless Women’s Polyband Elastic Hair Ties Now
Buy Kitsch’s Spiral Hair Ties Now
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