Matador Network's Blog, page 243

Sleep in Shrek’s Swamp for a Dose of Fairytale Magic

Once upon a time, living in a swamp like an ogre would have been considered an odious prospect. That was before Shrek came along, however, and lent swamp-swelling an air of fairytale magic. If you’ve always wanted to live like Shrek, now’s finally your chance. A cozy cottage in the Scottish Highlands will be available for rent on Airbnb starting October 13. Don’t expect any pitchforks or anthropomorphic animals, but do expect to spend the night in a real-life recreation of Shrek’s stumpy, secluded abode.

Photo: Alix McIntosh

Located deep in the Scottish Highlands, the house almost blends completely into the forest, ensuring a private and relaxing getaway (the “Stay Out” sign also helps). During your stay, you’ll be able to relax with a parfait, cozy up by the fire, and enjoy a stack of fresh waffles in the morning. The best part, though, is that it’s completely free. That’s right, to celebrate all the good Shrek has done for the woodland realm, you can stay in his house for $0 per night.

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/88180859...

“Shrek’s Swamp is lovely. Just beautiful,” said Donkey, Shrek’s faithful friend who is allegedly hosting the special stay. “The perfect place to entertain guests. You know what I like about it? Everything. The overgrown landscaping, the modest interiors, the nice boulders, all of it. I can’t wait for guests to experience this muddy slice of paradise for themselves.”

Two-night bookings for up to three people will open on October 13 at 1pm EST. If chosen, the lucky guests will stay in the swamp just in time for Halloween, from October 27-29 (not that, you know, ogres are monsters). Just go to the Airbnb’s official page to book, and note that you will be responsible for your own travel to and from Scotland.

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The Most Iconic Mumbai Hotels for the Best Experience in the City

Mumbai, also referred to as Bombay, is India’s largest city. This densely populated, buzzing metropolis located on India’s west coast is rich in both history and culture. Can’t-miss experiences include the lineup of tasty street food markets, bustling bazaars, and iconic landmarks — like the Gateway of India and the Elephanta Caves.

Traveling to India? Check out Matador’s India accommodations guides: The most luxurious hotels on the coastline of Goa, India Goa, India Offers the Country’s Coolest Airbnbs. These 11 Are Proof. 7 luxury hotels in Jaipur with the finest hospitality in Rajasthan Experience the best of Mumbai from these cozy Airbnbs These Jaipur Airbnbs put you in the heart of a beautiful city The Best Hotels Near the Taj Mahal With Incredible Views and Service These New Delhi Airbnbs Help You Find Your Footing in a Massive City These Airbnbs let you sleep near the Taj Mahal

We hope you love these Mumbai hotels! 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.

The Taj Mahal Tower MumbaiPhoto: Taj Mahal Tower MumbaiPhoto: Taj Mahal Tower MumbaiPhoto: Taj Mahal Tower MumbaiPhoto: Taj Mahal Tower Mumbai

 

See more photosAddress: Apollo Bunder, Colaba, 400001 Mumbai, India
Rates from: $151 per night

The historic and elite Taj Mahal Tower Mumbai hotel dates back to 1973, standing tall across from the Gateway of India and overlooking the waters of the Arabian Sea. It’s located in the Colaba area, which is a 10-minute walk from the National Gallery of Modern Art. The property blends in with the architecture of the adjacent Taj Mahal Palace and is spread across 2.6 acres of land. Guests can visit the on-site shops, dine at one of the ten restaurants, or try one of the scrumptious types of traditional Indian treatments at the on-site spa, Jiva Spa. Guest rooms feature a selection between sea view, city view, or pool view. They feel bright and polished but minimalistic and modern, offering amazing views of the sea, city or pool. Each room includes a 32-inch flat-screen TV and a luxurious bathroom.

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Taj Lands EndPhoto: Taj Lands EndPhoto: Taj Lands EndPhoto: Taj Lands EndPhoto: Taj Lands End

 

See more photosAddress: Bandstand, Bandra West, Maharashtra, Bandra, 400050 Mumbai, India
Rates from: $149 per night

This luxurious hotel is just steps from the waterfront, boasting incredible views of the Arabian Sea and the Bandra Worli Sea Link. The decor features elegant touches like timeless wood furnishings, and guest rooms feature fine linens and spacious marble bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a lineup of award-winning traditional Indian spa treatments at the on-site spa, which features sauna rooms and complimentary yoga. Or, visit the salon for a touch-up after spending time enjoying the outdoor pool.

There are five dining options on-site. At Masala Bay, enjoy a well-made cocktail paired with Sushi. Dive into some small plates at House of Nomad, or enjoy authentic Sichuan and Cantonese flavors at Ming Yang. Vista is a popular all-day dining restaurant serving a variety of global flavors and is known for its impressive brunch. At the Atrium Lounge, order coffee or tea drinks by day and a trendy cocktail by night when the space transforms into a bar by evening. Spend time relaxing at Tropics Bar, which hosts sunny afternoons by the pool.

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Trident Nariman PointPhoto: Trident Nariman PointPhoto: Trident Nariman PointPhoto: Trident Nariman PointPhoto: Trident Nariman Point

 

See more photosAddress: Nariman Point, 400021 Mumbai, India
Rates from: $149 per night

This historic, 33-floor 5-star property overlooks the Arabian Sea and is a short distance from the U.S. consulate and attractions like the historic buildings of Colaba and Fort and Chowpatty Beach. Admire the wall-to-wall glass windows, high ceilings, and stunning, regularly refreshed floral arrangements in the common spaces. The sparkling marble floors and grand piano add to the sophistication of the lobby. Inside, the guest rooms are peaceful and contemporary. Outside the guest rooms, visitors can float in the outdoor pool, use the fitness center, or indulge in the lineup of relaxing spa treatments. Dine on Mediterranean cuisine at Frangipani restaurant, or try a menu of Southeast-Asian flavors and Japanese food at the Indian Jones restaurant. Other dining options include a buffet breakfast at Veranda and cocktails at Opium Den.

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Four Seasons Hotel MumbaiPhoto: Four Seasons Hotel MumbaiPhoto: Four Seasons Hotel MumbaiPhoto: Four Seasons Hotel MumbaiPhoto: Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai

 

See more photosAddress: 114 Dr E Moses Road, Worli, Worli, 400018 Mumbai, India
Rates from: $145 per night

This luxurious property is located in the heart of Worli, which is the business district of Mumbai. When it first opened in 2009, it was the tallest hotel in the country at 33 stories. It feels like a sleek and peaceful place to spend the night, with warm and welcoming hospitality and comfortable rooms that boast panoramic city views. The rooms are bright and clean and feature contemporary decor that feels upscale but isn’t too flashy. Spend time at the outdoor pool or well-appointed fitness center or get a treatment at the spa. Dine on-site at one of the two restaurants or head up to the 33rd floor, which is home to the Aer open-air bar and is a great place to get fresh air and grab a drink with a view.

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The Ambassador, Marine Drive, MumbaiPhoto: The Ambassador MumbaiPhoto: The Ambassador MumbaiPhoto: The Ambassador MumbaiPhoto: The Ambassador Mumbai

 

See more photosAddress: V.N.Road, Off Marine Drive, Churchgate, Churchgate, 400020 Mumbai, India
Rates from: $103 per night

This historic, upscale, business-focused hotel is located on Marine Drive, just a 2-minute walk from Churchgate Railway station. The guest rooms feature marble bathrooms and are opulently decorated with a bold, artsy personality — including pops of rich colors like emerald green and ruby, which add a touch of elegance. Guests can dine at the on-site eatery, Flavors Cafe & Bar, which is open 24 hours and offers a buffet breakfast — or at The Society, which hosts fine dining cuisine of local and international flavors. The entire property seems to emit a sense of “old world charm” in the warm hospitality and traditionally sophisticated decor.

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Sofitel Mumbai BKCPhoto: Sofitel Mumbai BKCPhoto: Sofitel Mumbai BKCPhoto: Sofitel Mumbai BKCPhoto: Sofitel Mumbai BKC

 

See more photosAddress: C-57, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra, 400051 Mumbai, India
Price $115 per night

The glitzy Sofitel Mumbai BKC blends French and Indian design influences and is tucked away off the beaten path. This property is located within walking distance of the U.S. Consulate. Guests can enjoy relaxing at the outdoor pool or with an indulgent spa treatment or get in some exercise at the well-equipped on-site gym. Upscale design elements in the rooms include hardwood floors, large flatscreen TVs and spacious bathrooms. There are three on-site restaurants. The all-day cafe features an unparalleled international buffet breakfast.
The French Bistro cafe in the lobby serves international dishes, and Jyran, the dining and lounge space, serves regional dishes with outdoor seating choices. There’s also Tuskers — a vegetarian restaurant.

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The Oberoi MumbaiPhoto: The Oberoi MumbaiPhoto: The Oberoi MumbaiPhoto: The Oberoi MumbaiPhoto: The Oberoi Mumbai

 

See more photosAddress: Nariman Point, 400021 Mumbai, India
Price: $178 per night

The Oberoi Mumbai is located in Mumbai’s business district, with easy access to South Mumbai’s shopping and entertainment areas. Guests can enjoy the property’s heated outdoor pool or 24-hour spa, and exercise at the fitness center or browse the shops of the Oberoi Mall. There are five on-site food and beverage establishments serving a range of cuisines. At Fenix, five are on a menu of European, Asian and Indian specialties. At Vetro, indulge in a tasty Italian dish — and at Ziya, enjoy Indian cuisine. At The Eau Bar, admire views of the Arabian Sea and live music.

At The Champagne Lounge, choose between an impressive selection of Champagnes and types of teas. In the guestrooms themselves, the decor is smart and simplistic while also feeling upscale and interesting. The wooden floors and big windows, which let in plenty of natural light and showcase the views of the water are a spotlight in the rooms, in addition to the private bathrooms outfitted with soaking tubs. The property is proud to offer luxury paired with warm hospitality at all hours — including 24-hour spa services, butler service, laundry, concierge, and a 24-hour business center and travel desk.

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The St. Regis MumbaiPhoto: The St. Regis MumbaiPhoto: The St. Regis MumbaiPhoto: The St. Regis MumbaiPhoto: The St. Regis Mumbai

 

See more photosAddress: 462, Senapati Bapat Marg, Worli, 400013 Mumbai, India
Price: $157 per night

Polished and lavish describe the on-site accommodations at the 22,000-square-foot St. Regis Mumbai property, which is located in the city’s premier entertainment and commercial district of Lower Parel. It’s adjacent to The Palladium Mall, offering unparalleled access to luxury shopping. Guests will enjoy the signature 24-hour St. Regis Butler Service throughout their stay, in addition to an extensive selection of dining options. Relax on the dedicated “wellness floor” on Level 10 — which includes the Athletic Club, an outdoor swimming pool overlooking the skyline, the on-site spa, and the on-site salon. Guest rooms are as stunning as guests could imagine, with opulent marble bathrooms featuring separate soaking tubs and floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the bustling city below.

Be sure to dine at By the Mekong, one of the finest Asian restaurants in the city, serving dishes from the districts of Yunnan and Sichuan in China as well as Thailand and Vietnam. The award-winning restaurant Yuuka serves Japanese cuisine up on Level 37 in a space overlooking the Arabian Sea. At The Drawing Room, indulge in the ritual of a signature St. Regis Tea Ritual afternoon tea service. Another on-site spectacle is the “Champagne sabering,” experience, which takes place at the Drawing Room every Wednesday and Friday at 6:00 p.m.

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Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotel and ResidencesPhoto: Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotel & ResidencesPhoto: Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotel & ResidencesPhoto: Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotel & ResidencesPhoto: Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotel & Residences

 

See more photosAddress: Off Western Express Highway Santacruz (E), Santacruz, 400055 Mumbai, India
Starting from: $145 per night

The five-star Grand Hyatt Mumbai is located in the heart of the city, in a convenient location for exploring — but is tucked away amidst 10-plus acres of lush green space, feeling like a relaxing spot to hide away from the bustle of the city. The property boasts award-winning dining experiences, wellness offerings, and wellness facilities. There are two outdoor pools flanked by relaxing sun loungers and palm trees and four signature restaurants serving an array of diverse cuisines. In the common spaces, art aficionados will revere the collections of art commissioned by established and upcoming artists of India. Exceptionally appointed guest rooms feature rich, clean decor with floor-to-ceiling windows offering courtyard or city views — some with attached balconies.

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JW Marriott Mumbai JuhuPhoto: JW Marriott Mumbai JuhuPhoto: JW Marriott Mumbai JuhuPhoto: JW Marriott Mumbai JuhuPhoto: JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu

 

See more photosAddress: Juhu Tara Road, Juhu, 400049 Mumbai, India
Starting from: $157 per night

This waterfront property sits on Juhu Beach within walking distance of several popular local attractions and restaurants — offering guests access to three outdoor pools, an award-winning spa, and half a dozen dining options. The guestrooms are lavish — boasting breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea — and are outfitted with fine linens and amenities like a special pillow menu. Guests can get fit with free on-site exercise classes or indulge in a relaxing treatment at the on-site spa.

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What hotels are near the US Embassy in Mumbai?

Some properties that are exceptionally close to the US Embassy in Mumbai include Trident Nariman Point Mumbai and the Sofitel Mumbai BKC Hotel.

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California’s June Mountain Ski Area Is the Ideal Place for an Epic Family Snow Trip

California has some of the most premier mountains for skiing and snowboarding in the country. Case in point: it’s home to the “California double” — when you both ski and surf in the same day. The state is also home to one of the best destinations for family-friendly winter adventure in the country: June Mountain Ski Area. The sister resort to the more widely-known Mammoth Mountain, June Mountain has a more relaxed vibe with fewer crowds and a more family-friendly atmosphere. And since it’s just a half-hour from Mammoth, it’s an easy day trip for anyone visiting the area..

A trip to June Mountain Ski Area, near June Lake in the Eastern Sierra mountains southeast of Yosemite, feels like a much more intimate experience compared to the country’s bigger, busier, and more overwhelming ski resorts. The lift lines are short if there’s a line at all, and because the slopes aren’t as busy, fresh powder stays fresh for days without getting skied out within the hour. With 1,500 acres of terrain and 35 named trails, the whole family can take multiple runs and still have plenty of trails to explore. The resort also has stunning views of June and Gull Lakes, and from the top of the mountain you can see Mono Lake and Mammoth Mountain.

The resort is also known for its kid-centric activities. Kids under 12 can ski and ride for free every day of the year, and much of the terrain is geared toward beginner and intermediate riders. There’s also a small baby terrain park, perfect for younger skiers and snowboarders learning the basics. That said, the June Mountain area isn’t just about skiing and snowboarding.

Play in the snow at Woolly’s Tube Park

A half-hour south of June Mountain you’ll find Woolly’s Tube Park and Snow Play, part of Mammoth Mountain Resort. Slopes not treating you well? Want to share a slightly less frustrating winter experience with your kids? Try tubing at Woolly’s.

Catch a lift to the top, then slide down the groomed lanes in high-speed snow tubes. The best part about tubing is that you don’t need any prior experience, and kids of all ages can safely participate. There’s also a snow play area where you can build snowmen, make snow angels, hang out with the fuzzy mascot Woolly, and really get creative with your snow day. Once you’re ready to warm up a bit, a heated deck offers a snack bar with hot chocolate and adult beverages – the perfect place to sit and watch the snow-fun unfold.

Tickets cost $20-25, and are valid for sessions of one hour and fifteen minutes. The park is seasonal, opening in early winter, with the exact opening date depending on the weather.

Snowshoe in the legendary Mammoth Lakes

No family snow day would be complete without spending some time in Mammoth Lakes, a staple of California winter fun. Whether it’s skiing and snowboarding at Mammoth Mountain, going on a snowmobile adventure, or checking out a cozy wine bar, the area isn’t just great for families, but solo travelers and groups of friends too. If you are traveling with kids, however, snowshoeing might be Mammoth’s most fun and accessible activity for all ages.

Minaret Vista is among the best places to snowshoe in Mammoth Lakes. The gentle uphill slope is accommodating for beginners, and brings you to stunning views of the Minarets that define Mammoth’s iconic skyline. The 2.5-mile trail starts at the Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge, then branches away from the ski area up the snowy slopes.

The Mammoth Lakes Basin and the Lake Mary Winter Public Access Corridor offer plenty of other snowshoe options for families. The Panorama Dome Loop has some of the best views, looking out over Mammoth Crews, Sherwin Range, White Mountains, Glass Mountains, Mammoth Mountain, and the town of Mammoth Lakes.

Where to Stay

Given the region’s popularity, there are no shortage of places to stay in the Mammoth and June Mountain area. One of the most iconic accommodations, however, is the Mammoth Mountain Inn, a picture-perfect slopeside hotel right on Mammoth Mountain. With mountain views; ski-in, ski-out capability; a ski school; and full-service restaurant, bar, and coffee shop, this place has pretty much everything you could ask for in a winter holiday hotel. It’s also perfect for summer trips, thanks to its close proximity to Devils Postpile National Monument, Rainbow Falls, and the warm-weather adventure activities at the Mammoth Adventure Center.

Mammoth Mountain Inn: 10400 Minaret Rd, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Where to Eat

It’s not really a day on the slopes without a little apres-ski. And yes, apres ski can still be family friendly. The Yodeler is Mammoth’s popular bar and restaurant that’ll make you feel like you’re in the Alps rather than northern California. The menu here is full of hearty, Bavarian-inspired favorites, bratwurst, fondue, schnitzel, and Oktoberfest-style beer steins. There are also plenty of kid plates. A large sundeck makes the restaurant ideal for catching some rays while dining and drinking, or you can cozy up to the indoor fireplace on particularly chilly days.

Yodeler: 10000 Minaret Rd., Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

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This Nevada City Was Just Ranked the Happiest City To Live in the United States

We read all the time about the “happiest cities in the country,” but who’s to say what makes a place “happy”? If beauty is in the eye of the beholder, happiness, in this case, is in the eye of the list-making journalist who decides which criteria to consider and which to ignore. That said, it’s always fun when cities subvert expectations to emerge as a top destination.

Outside Magazine’s list of the “15 Happiest Places to Live in the US” is based on a specific set of criteria you might expect from an outdoors-centric magazine: prevalence of outdoor access, safety, diversity, inclusion, and affordability. The result is a list heavy on cities with green spaces, urban parks, bike trails, and other opportunities to get outside.

Given this criteria, it may come as a surprise that Reno, Nevada, tops the list. Reno is often thought of as a mini-Vegas, known for its gambling and nightlife. It is called “The Biggest Little City in the World,” after all. As this ranking shows, the city is much more. In addition to a ton of public land and surrounding mountainous landscape, it’s home to a whitewater park, several climbing gyms, a monthlong summer arts festival, a craft brewery scene, and urban art installations repurposed from Burning Man. The city also recently opened the new Sierra Vista Mountain Bike Park, and turned a run-down strip mall into the Reno Public Market with food vendors, live music, and workout classes.

But of course, it’s not just about outdoor space and repurposing old venues for new experiences. Reno’s affordable cost of living and zero state income tax have attracted companies to move to the area, creating jobs and employment opportunities. This combined with inclusive events like the annual Pride celebration, are certainly helping the city stand out.

Outside Magazine’s Top 15 Happiest Cities in the USReno, NevadaWilmington, DelawareNew Orleans, LouisianaCincinnati, OhioCharlottesville, VirginiaHood RIver, OregonMinneapolis, MinnesotaGlenwood Springs, ColoradoHarrisburg, PennsylvaniaPlano, TexasAnchorage, AlaskaMadison, WisconsinFrederick, MaylandSaint Petersburg, FloridaTacoma, WashingtonMore like thisFour Reno Day Trips You Need To Add To Your Northern Nevada Getaway

The Hyatt Regency San Francisco Offers A Slice Of Luxury And A Chance To Explore the City

When I arrived at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco from the Ferry Building trying to find the entrance, I underestimated how large it was. I got lost looking for the lobby to check in, and it turned out that it was two floors above street level. I pressed the elevator button, which transported me to one of the largest and most futuristic lobbies I’ve ever seen.

The lobby alone has a front desk, gym, mini market, restaurant, lounging areas, and a 35-foot-high art installation. Even with these amenities, it doesn’t feel crowded thanks to a wealth of open space in between. My room matched the spaciousness: At 589 square feet, the suite felt bigger and more open than my 670 square feet apartment, and includes two bathrooms with a shower stall in the bedroom.

Amenities and rooms at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco

Photo: Hannah Padilla

The biggest draw of the suite was the super-spacious balcony. Even better were the sweeping views, with the Transamerica Pyramid on one side, and the Ferry Building and Bay Bridge on the other.

The Hyatt Regency San Francisco is just across the street from the Ferry Building, a terminal where the ferries drop off passengers across the San Francisco Bay. It’s renowned for its shops, eateries, and farmers market.

This year, the hotel is celebrating its 50th anniversary by offering the Golden Anniversary Escape Package, which includes a room upgrade, free access to the Regency Club, two vouchers for cocktails at Eclipse Kitchen and Bar upon check-in, two tickets to the Cable Car (which stops just right outside the hotel), and a custom-designed postcard by John Portman (the late hotel architect).

Photo: Hannah Padilla

Touring the property, I learned more about the features from associate director of sales Scott Panco. That 35-foot-high spherical art piece, named Eclipse, was designed by the late sculptor Charles O. Perry and uses 1,400 curved pieces of aluminum tubes to create pentagons as negative space.

I’m not the only one impressed by the expanse of the lobby. Scott told me that the Hyatt Regency San Francisco was featured in the Guinness Book of World Records as having the largest hotel lobby in the world at 42,000 square feet and 170 feet high. I wasn’t surprised, as I’d never seen a hotel lobby that looked and felt like a mall. There are 15 floors in the hotel with aerial views of the lobby, making the people walking by look like ants.

The next day, I had breakfast at the Regency Club, an exclusive lounge for select Hyatt members. The lounge is located on the hotel’s top floor, with 360-degree views of San Francisco and incredible views of the Bay Bridge. It’s not surprising to see guests pull up a chair closer to the bridge and the deep blue bay waters.

The Regency Club offers complimentary breakfast, a happy hour, and dinner for its members. Their breakfast buffet had standard fare such as eggs, oatmeal, yogurt, pastries, bagels, and fruit. I loaded up on watermelon, scrambled eggs, a bagel, and coffee, and took a seat at the booth facing the Bay Bridge, admiring the morning views and the boats docking at the ferry terminal.

Later, I marched down to the lobby to work out at Stay Fit, the hotel’s 24/7 fitness center. The size and the amount of equipment is impressive for a hotel gym. There are rows of treadmills, ellipticals, and bikes, including a small corner with a row of Peloton bikes. Stay Fit also has dumbbells and kettlebells of all sizes, and extra equipment such as the TRX suspension trainers, yoga mats, foam rollers, stability balls, and a ballet barre. Since my husband and I signed up for a gym membership close to home, I’ve been making it a habit to work out regularly. While there were a few fellow gymgoers at Stay Fit, I loved how I did not have to fight for a set of dumbbells and a bench, unlike at our home gym.

Exploring San Francisco through the cable cars

It can be tempting not to leave the property since you have all the amenities at your fingertips, but a stop for one of San Francisco’s world-famous cable car lines is right outside the hotel. The cable cars take you to some of the city’s most iconic attractions such as Chinatown, North Beach, Nob Hill, Lombard Street, and Ghirardelli Square. This makes exploring much easier, especially if this is your first time in San Francisco. Driving in the city is difficult if you’re not used to driving up abrupt, steep hills, and the lack of parking spots is pretty frustrating. Not to mention, parking in metered areas and garages is outrageously expensive.

After my gym session, I showered, dressed up, and got ready to explore. I met my husband Cecilio outside the hotel near the valet parking area and we headed out to the cable car station.

When you enter the cable car, you can sit in the enclosed area or on the open-air seats facing the views. You can also stand while you hold the rails which adds to the thrill of riding, you just need to be careful and hold on for dear life. Cecilio and I decided to stop at Nob Hill and walk a few blocks to Lombard Street, the most crooked street in the world with eight hairpin turns. It also attracts many tourists trying to take photos of the street overlooking Coit Tower. You can also walk down the sidewalks to see Lombard Street from a different angle and see how crooked the turns are.

You can either walk or take another cable car line to Ghirardelli Square, a popular attraction filled with shops, restaurants, and an outdoor square where you can relax and people-watch. It’s also famous for the Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience, a shop where you can buy Ghirardelli chocolates, gifts, baking goods, and souvenirs. You can order a different variety of hot chocolates and sundaes as well.

From Ghirardelli Square, you can walk a few blocks to Pier 39, San Francisco’s most popular attraction. There, you can window shop, eat clam chowder on a bread bowl from Boudin Bakery, San Francisco’s oldest continually operating business or sit on the pier and watch the sea lions in the harbor.

Where to eat in Hyatt Regency San Francisco

Photo: Hannah Padilla

The hotel has two main places to eat. The Market is a grab-and-go shop offering sandwiches, salads, parfait, cookies, coffee, tea, and juice. Breakfast includes omelets, breakfast burritos, waffles, and egg sandwiches, while the lunch menu consists of wings, pizza, steak tacos, a Korean chicken bowl, and quesadillas.

Right next to the Market is the Eclipse Kitchen and Bar, the hotel’s restaurant. The ambiance matches the restaurant name, with dim, dramatic lighting and a huge moon installation hanging over the bar. After a full day of exploring the city, I went straight to Eclipse during happy hour for an espresso martini. After I downed it, Cecilio and I headed back to our suite to freshen up and change for dinner at Eclipse.

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The dinner menu focuses on New American cuisine, with appetizers like Brussels sprouts with a yuzu swee chile marinade and perfectly crispy chicken pot stickers. My main entree, a seven-ounce, medium-rare filet seared in garlic brown butter, melted in my mouth and bursted with flavors. Cecilio’s burger was a good standard restaurant-style burger made with grass-fed beef and topped with aged white cheddar, lettuce, tomatoes, and onions on a brioche bun with a side of shoestring fries. An extensive wine menu includes options from wineries all over Northern California, and there are also cocktails featuring San Francisco-themed drinks such as the Gold Rush (tequila, cognac, cranberry, and lime), SF Sour (bourbon, zinfandel, egg white, lemon, and simple syrup), and Cable Car (rum, orange liquor, lemon juice, with a cinnamon sugar rim).

Make sure to save room for dessert. We decided on the fresh fruit tart — a vanilla custard layered on a buttery crust topped with berries that’s tart, light, and sweet (but not sickeningly so). It was like a hybrid of a creme brulee and a pie, and it was the highlight of our dinner.

Is Hyatt Regency San Francisco worth the cost?

Our stay was a once-in-a-lifetime experience thanks to top-notch customer service, spacious rooms, amenities, and dining options. And even with all of the benefits from staying on the property, it’s location makes it easy to explore the Ferry Building and other parts of the city by foot and cable car. This all comes with a price, however.

I’m not going to beat around the bush: a luxurious hotel in a prime location like Hyatt Regency San Francisco comes with a hefty price tag. Our stay in the balcony suite in July cost about $800 a night. During the off-season, the prices go down to $630 a night on average. If you have the means to afford it, by all means, treat yourself. Or you could also sign up for the World of Hyatt Loyalty Program, where you can earn points from staying at different Hyatt hotels and eventually rack up enough points to stay in the San Francisco location for free.

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Kaya Palazzo Is Türkiye’s Hidden All-Inclusive Coastal Hotspot

I don’t know about you, but when people tell me they just got back from a rejuvenating all-inclusive resort, I usually assume they’re talking about one on a Caribbean island. Maybe, if they’re really adventurous (and rich), they’re referring to the Maldives or Fiji. Especially for those living in the US, our imaginations tend not to branch very far from the Caribbean and South Pacific when it comes to tropical resort vacations. So when I learned about Antalya, a city on the south coast of Türkiye that’s famous for its resorts, my interest was piqued.

In general, I’m not a resort guy. They tend to all look the same to me: a mall-hotel crossover that takes three days to learn how to navigate, with mediocre food you tolerate because it’s free and a billion amenities you’ll never actually use. When I arrived in Antalya and made my way to Kaya Palazzo, passing a dozen Vegas knockoff resorts en route, I expected my experience to fit neatly into the template I had devised in my head – but maybe with more kebabs and baklava than pizza and ice cream.

Turkish Airlines runs multiple flights to Antalya from Istanbul per day, and at just an hour long, it goes by in a flash. When I arrived at Kaya Palazzo, the personal welcome by a guest concierge was, admittedly, warmer than I expected from a resort of this size. Turns out, each guest has their own dedicated guest concierges, who walk them through the resort and are available pretty much 24/7 to answer questions, arrange dinner reservations, and plan excursions. You’ll even be added to a WhatsApp group with your concierges, so you can easily get in touch with them.

Photo: Kaya Palazzo

There are dozens of different room categories to choose from at Kaya Palazzo, but I’d recommend a Lagoon Suite. Lagoon Suites are fairly standard, spacious rooms with one important perk: they have direct access to a swim-up pool. While the rooms themselves are certainly comfortable, you really won’t be spending much time in there. With two adjustable lounge chairs, umbrellas, a couch on your private patio, and a pool just steps away, it’s too easy to spend the entire day reading and sunbathing, or floating lazily in the pool. If that sounds like your ideal vacation, read no further. But there’s so much else to do at Kaya Palazzo that it’s worth stepping outside the comforts of your room.

Photo: Kaya Palazzo

For one, there’s the food. With over eight distinct restaurants, ranging from Italian cuisine and Japanese sushi to traditional Turkish fare, you’ll never be hungry at Kaya Palazzo. In fact, with all-inclusive menus, your biggest problem will be knowing when to stop eating. If you’re staying in a Lagoon Suite, check out the nearby Lagoon Restaurant for poolside views and a tranquil atmosphere. The other eateries are mostly located on the bottom floor, surrounding the central pavilion where live musical acts play each night. So whether you’re slurping up spaghetti at Serafina or cutting into a tenderloin at the Palazzo Steak House, there’s never a dull moment while dining.

When you’re finished eating, don’t go back to your room just yet. The outdoor amphitheater has a show every evening, ranging from circus acts and historical plays to pop concerts. When I was there, I had the privilege of witnessing a theatrical performance set during the height of the Ottoman Empire’s dominance, as well as a Michael Jackson impersonator who had the whole crowd on its feet, moonwalking (or attempting to moonwalk) along with him. Soothe your sore dancing feet the next day with a treatment at the spa, which has Turkish baths, saunas, jacuzzis, therapy rooms, and an indoor swimming pool.

Photo: Kaya Palazzo

For those looking to be a bit more active, the resort is also home to a pristinely maintained 18-hole golf course. Golf enthusiasts already know that Türkiye is becoming an internationally known golf destination. Antalya, in particular, is hosting the 2023 Turkish Airlines Open and welcoming golfers from all over the world looking for beautiful new greens to test their skills. But you don’t have to be a PGA player to enjoy this course, and you can even book yourself a lesson (like I did) with the resort’s resident golf pro. I won’t be hitting holes-in-one anytime soon, but he did manage to fix my grip in a matter of seconds.

Photo: Sergii Figurnyi/Shutterstock

Unlike many resort cities, Antalya isn’t just about the hotel experience. Kaya Palazzo can set you up with a guided tour, and it’s worth dedicating an afternoon to exploring the city. Its waterfalls are a good place to start. Karpuzkaldiran waterfall, just four miles from the city, is one of the most dramatic in the area, tumbling in multiple cascades into the sea. Kurşunlu Waterfall also shouldn’t be missed if you have the time and means to reach it. About 13 miles from the city, the falls consist of a main cascade and several smaller waterfalls, as well as seven pools. One of the best preserved historical sites in Türkiye, they’re located near the ancient city of Termessos, making for a perfect day trip.

In the city of Antalya itself, take some time to explore the Old Town — not just a touristy neighborhood with kitschy souvenir shops, Antalya’s Old Town is a living, bustling section of the city that combines its Roman past (think ancient columns and fortifications) with modern restaurants and shops. Indeed, the neighborhood’s entrance is Hadrian’s Gate, a series of three marble archways that dates back to 130 BC, built to honor Emperor Hadrian’s visit.

Sure, venturing out of the luxurious confines of Kaya Palazzo might sound like more effort than you’d like to expend on a resort getaway. Want to stroll ancient streets under Romanesque arches and bask in the mist of waterfalls? You can. Prefer spending four straight days in your swim-up suite bouncing between the pool and your lounge chairs? You can do that too. Like the resort experience itself, the beauty of Antalya is its many, many options.

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Everything You Need To Know About Old Town AlUla, Saudi Arabia

If you haven’t heard of Alula, don’t sweat it — the fact that it’s relatively unknown among Western travelers is just proof that it’s still mostly free from over-tourism.

Old Town AlUla is a historic city in Saudi Arabia, a country that itself just reopened for tourism in the last few years. And at the center of AlUla is Old Town AlUla, also known as AlUla Old Town Village. The original settlement likely dates to the 6th century BCE and is preserved more or less as it was, without electricity or modern development. Now, it’s a budding tourist hot spot for anyone interested in world history or archaeological sites. Set next to the modern-day town, the region has a unique fusion of antiquity and modernity, especially given the massive investments Saudi Arabia is currently putting into tourism development.

Here’s what to know about Old Town AlUla and how to plan your time in the sprawling (and fascinating) historical site.

Jump to:The history of Old Town AlUlaWhere is AlUla?Options for planning a trip to AlUla How much time to spend in AlUla and the old townThe best time to visit Old Town AlUlaRecommended AlUla restaurantsOther places to go near AlUlaWhat to wear when visitingWhere to stay near AlUlaThe history of Old Town AlUla

Photo: Experience AlUla/Shutterstock

Old Town AlUla’s history stretches back over millennia. Its history is deeply intertwined with the Nabateans, the same people who carved the famed city of Petra in Jordan.

The “current” city dates to at least the 12th century, but probably earlier, and was a thriving walled settlement during the Nabatean period, serving as a crucial stopover for travelers and traders. It featured a network of stone and mudbrick houses, fortifications, and an intricate irrigation system that allowed for agriculture. Old Town AlUla’s location near several trade routes made it a convenient and popular cultural and economic center, and it was influences by the Nabateans, the Romans, and the Byzantines.

Over the centuries, AlUla’s size and importance ebbed and flowed with changing trade patterns and political dynamics in the region. If you’re wondering why Old Town AlUla was abandoned, there’s no real fixed reason. In the 1980s, the buildings were deemed too unsafe, but most residents had already moved out to newer and more modernized towns, anyway.

Since then, the old town’s historical significance and well-preserved architecture have make it a growing tourist destination.

How to get to Old Town AlUla

Old Town AlUla is in northeastern Saudi Arabia. The nearest airport is Prince Abdul Majeed bin Abdulaziz Airport (ULH), also known as AlUla Airport. You’ll connect to that airport most likely from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah or King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, which are two of the largest airports in Saudi Arabia. From the AlUla airport, it’s about a half an hour drive to the old town.

There’s no entry fee to see the town or wander the historic area. And getting a tourist visa to visit Saudi Arabia is now super easy: there’s an online portal that takes only a few minutes. Visas cost $80 per person. You can also do your visa on arrival at the airport, but generally, it’s easier to just do it in advance before your trip.

AlUla trip planning

Photo: Experience AlUla/Shutterstock

You can go AlUla by yourself, but it can be a little complicated, since tourist infrastructure outside of the town can be a little dicey (in terms of language barriers and rough roads). If you decide to go that route, it’ll be easiest to ask your hotel to arrange your pickup upon arrival at the airport. Your hotel can book tours of Old Town AlUla and surrounding attractions for you, or you can visit the Visitor Center in Old Town AlUla, where they can help you schedule activities.

However, most people visit Old Town AlUla as part of a longer trip through Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. Abercrombie and Kent offers a very high-end six-day trip, and most midrange operators (like MAdventures) have moderately priced tours that visit Old Town AlUla, as well as other destinations in the country. It’s growing as a tourist destination, so expect to start seeing it more and more on travel itineraries.

How long to spend in AlUla’s Old Town

Photo: RCU2019/Shutterstock

How much time to spend in Old Town AlUla depends a lot on how much time you want to spend shopping or wandering, but for most people, half a day in the old town is good. That said, there are lots of good restaurants in the old town, and you’ll likely want to visit the fort and traditional market area, too.  So spend a few hours wandering through the town (either on a guided or unguided tour), then budget another two hours for lunch and a little shopping.

When to go to Saudi Arabia

In general, the most popular time to visit Saudi Arabia is roughly October through March, since summer can be extremely hot. Within that window, November through February are the coolest, temperature-wise. No matter where you’re going in Saudi Arabia, Old Town AlUla included, you’ll likely want to avoid Ramadan (mid-March to mid-April), since most businesses and government organizations have very abbreviated opening hours to accommodate religious observances.

Old Town AlUla Village walking tours

Photo: Vadim_N/Shutterstock

When visiting the old town, you can take yourself on a self-guided tour, with informational signs posted around a well-marked walking route. However, a more popular activity is to hire a rawi — a traditional storyteller. In Old Town AlUla, locals are trained as skilled rawis, sharing the history of the town as well as cultural knowledge, legends, and stories about the town.

You can join in on a guided tour with a rawi at the Old Town Visitor Center. They’re offered multiple times per day and cost 70 riyals per person (about US $18). The tours go past many of the town’s more than 900 buildings, so wear comfortable shoes.

You can also hire your own rawi if you’d prefer a personal tour. The best way to do this is either from the visitor center in town, or by asking your hotel. Rawis are similar to tour guides, so every hotel will have a few they can recommend. Tip a few bucks at the end if you enjoy the experience.

Restaurants in Old Town AlUla

Photo: Experience AlUla/Shutterstock

One of the most commonly used ingredients in Saudi Arabia are dates, and in a historic area like AlUla, you can try some of the best traditional date dishes in the country. You can also try all manner of Middle Eastern dishes, from traditional meals to modernized twists. And French cuisine is heavy in the region, too.

Entrecote Cafe de Paris

Entrecote may be one of the most beautiful restaurants in Saudi Arabia, let alone AlUla. The menu focuses on haute French cuisine, with indoor and outdoor dining, both of which are gorgeous options. Reservations are highly recommended.

Suhail

Suhail is one of old town’s can’t-miss restaurants, with an open air rooftop looking out on the old town. Recipes are modern twists on traditional Saudi dishes, and if you’ve ever wanted to try camel meat, Suhail is the place to go.

The Pink Camel Cafe

The Pink Camel is a popular, more affordable option for where to eat in Old Town AlUla. It has healthier and lighter lunches, plus lots of pastries and bakery items. It’s currently closed as of September 2023 but will reopen after a quick renovation by winter 2023.

Other nearby activities and attractions

There’s plenty to see in the area around Old Town AlUla, so if you stay in the town of AlUla, you’ll be within easy reach of everywhere you want to go.

Elephant Rock

Photo: spc3mky/Shutterstock

Elephant Rock, also known as Jabal AlFil in Arabic, is a striking natural rock formation about 20 minutes by car from AlUla. As its name suggests, the formation resembles the shape of an elephant, with a large body and a distinct head and trunk. Its shape is the result of millions of years of erosion and weathering. It’s a popular spot on day tours, and at more than 150 feet tall, makes for some impressive photos. There are often outdoor events held just in front of the rock, too.

Hegra

Photo: Matt Starling Photography/Shutterstock

Hegra, also known as Al-Hijr or Madain Salih, is an ancient archaeological site roughly 35 minute from AlUla. It’s one of the country’s most significant historical and cultural treasures and has earned UNESCO World Heritage status for its well-preserved structures and rock-cut tombs.

Hegra was a vital hub for trade and caravans in the region, and now, its intricate tombs and burial chambers showcase the extraordinary craftsmanship and architectural prowess of the Nabatean civilization. There are multiple tombs as well as other buildings and ruins displaying the city’s Nabatean, Hellenistic, and Arabian influences. You can also tour residential quarters, religious structures, and irrigation facilities; it’s truly unbelievable in real life. Tours leave daily from AlUla.

The Oasis

Photo: Experience AlUla/Shutterstock

The Oasis is immediately next to Old Town AlUla and is a beautiful green area surrounded by no less than two million date palms. Today, it’s used for al fresco dining and outdoor art installations, with a public green space and the 3.75-mile Oasis walking route. There are multiple restaurants, including a tea cafe and the popular Pink Camel.

What to wear to visit Old Town AlUla

When visiting anywhere in Saudi Arabia, it’s best to dress a little conservatively. Shorts aren’t common, avoid any super tight clothing, and women should cover their shoulders. But other than that, you don’t need to wear anything special (though some restaurants may have dress codes). While many Saudi women choose to wear hijabs or head scarfs, it’s not required, and the same goes for foreign visitors. The exception to that is if you want to visit a mosque or other place of worship, in which a head scarf of some kind is required.

One thing you do want to wear are comfortable walking shoes, and you’ll likely want plenty of sunscreen, too. An SPF shirt can also be quite helpful.

Where to stay

Some of the most gorgeous hotels in the Middle East are around AlUla, with luxury desert resorts that alone are worth the trip.

Habitas AlUla

 

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Habitas AlUla is an all-suites resort worthy of the luxurious Habitas brand, with five-star amenities and very forward-thinking environmental design elements. There’s a weekly schedule with fantastic cultural and outdoor activities for guests, and pretty much every other amenity you could possibly want, too. Rooms start around $516 per night.

Banyan Tree AlUla

 

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Banyan Tree AlUla is a gorgeous, five-star desert oasis, with dune villas with or without pools. The hotel can arrange any experience you can imagine, and the rock pool is arguably one of the prettiest hotel pools you’ll find in the world. Seriously. Also nearby is Ashar Tented Resort, which shares facilities with the Banyan Tree. Rooms at Banyan Tree AlUla start around $570 per night in the slow season.

Sahary AlUla Resort

 

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Sahary AlUla Resort is slightly more affordable than luxury hotels such as Banyan Tree AlUla, but it has a similar feel of being a desert oasis. Rooms are pretty cabanas designed in a style to mirror the twisting streets of the old town, and the hotel’s restaurant has an awesome location tucked into a rock canyon. Rates start around $160 per night.

Dar Tantora

 

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Set to open in January 2024 is Dar Tantora, an eco-hotel in a traditional architectural and interior design style It’ll be housed in the ancient Old Town with minimal electricity (there’s still a plug in each room), lantern lighting, and lush woven textiles and natural materials. There’s also going to be a high-end traditional restaurant on site.

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Get Green at These Cannabis-Friendly Airbnbs in San Diego

If there’s a city that’ll have you daydreaming about relocating to, it’s San Diego. With winter temperatures rarely dipping below 50°F, these beaches, parks, and oceanfront grills may be enjoyed year-round. Travelers who prefer to unwind with a bud rather than a beer are in luck; recreational cannabis is legal in California and San Diego has as many marijuana dispensaries as food trucks. That so, it’s not permitted to smoke in public areas or at hotels with smoking or vaping bans. Light up in the privacy of one of these cannabis-friendly Airbnbs in San Diego with outdoor space.

Traveling to San Diego? Check out Matador’s San Diego accommodations guides: These beautiful San Diego Airbnbs put you close to the beach and downtown The best San Diego airport hotels to bookend your trip The top San Diego hotels near downtown and the beachfront These pet-friendly San Diego hotels let dogs stay, stress-free

We hope you love these cannabis-friendly Airbnbs in San Diego! 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.

“CannaBnB” in San Diego with patio hot tubPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosNine miles east of downtown, this La Mesa casita in a peaceful neighborhood has free parking. Complete with a fitted kitchen, laundry room, and work desk, the rental is ideal for a longer stay. The private patio comes with hammocks and a fire pit while the hot tub is shared with another guest suite. This is unquestionably one of the most cannabis-friendly Airbnbs in San Diego although you’ll need to notify the host when booking if this is your plan. That way, they’ll set you up with all the accessories for indoor smoking.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $99 per night

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Cannabis-friendly Mission Beach Airbnb with ocean viewPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosA sanctuary for plant lovers, beach-goers, and Mary Jane devotees, this studio suite opens out onto a zenful patio with comfy seating and an outdoor shower. Reach under the bed and you’ll find a pair of yoga mats to roll out for a morning flow. Soothing interiors mix minimalism with just enough character while the kitchenette contains a fridge and coffee machine. Give the hosts a heads-up if you’re planning on lighting up and you might even find an arrival treat.

Two guests, one bedroom (studio)
Price: $135 per night

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Pet-friendly “CannaBnB” in San DiegoPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis 420-friendly studio is the second property within the La Mesa “CannaBnb” where an outdoor hot tub is shared between guests. As a studio with one double bed and a sleeper couch, it’s a touch smaller but you’ll still appreciate a fully-stocked kitchen, bathroom with a tub, and private patio with barbecue facilities. Both rental units welcome dogs to stay provided they’ll place nice with the homeowner’s cat. Cannabis may be consumed inside although tobacco is restricted to the yard.

Four guests, one bedroom (studio)
Price: $89 per night

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Mission Beach studio with complimentary beach cruisersPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis chic pet-friendly studio in a walkable beach neighborhood gives you the comfort of an Airbnb and the luxuries of a hotel. The kitchen is stocked with basics for light meals plus drip and French press coffee makers. Smoking is restricted to the patio where you might cross paths with the host couple who reside on the floors above. A pair of bikes plus beach essentials are available in the courtyard – help yourself.

Two guests, one bedroom (studio)
Price: $231 per night

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Escondido Airbnb Room with freebie CBD products and breakfastPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThirty miles north of downtown, this bohemian lair is nestled within the San Diego County hills. If the other guest room is vacant, the shared bathroom will default to private. You’ll share the kitchen and lounge with the host couple. Your own pup can stay for free as long as they’re down for sharing the backyard with the resident dogs. Breakfast staples and organic eggs are included in your reservation while cannabis-curious guests receive weed on the house. Cannabis massages, ganja yoga, and sound healing are available upon request.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $50 per night

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Cozy 420-friendly Airbnb in Downtown San DiegoPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis weed-friendly condo in San Diego is a five-minute drive from the Gaslamp Quarter and only 10-15 minutes from beaches and attractions. Smoking is allowed in the shared backyard where you might run into the host’s sociable cat. In addition to two double bedrooms, a fifth guest can be accommodated on the comfy couch. The fully-equipped guesthouse has a cute aesthetic with rose-pink walls and potted plants that make it feel like home.

Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $145 per night

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Safari tent with hot tub near SoCal wineriesPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosGlamp out under the stars in San Diego County at this luxury yurt Airbnb on an organic farm where alpacas, goats, and peacocks roam. Morning Song Farm is a marijuana-friendly retreat although smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas. A divine four-poster bed nestles in the heart of the tent while the kitchen is located on the patio. No need to bring your own eggs – the chickens have you covered for breakfast. If the tent isn’t available, cast your eye over the host’s other unique listings.

Six guests, one bedroom
Price: $210 per night

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San Diego Airbnb Room in a gorgeous private gardenPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis cannabis-friendly cabin is hosted by a seasoned traveler who has woven his global adventures into the decor. Shrouded with tall shoots of bamboo, the structure sits in a quiet patch at the end of the shared backyard. Furnishings evoke continents further afield while sitting out in the lush garden will delight all kinds of grass lovers. You’ll have free reign of the bathroom and kitchen inside the main house. Close to the breweries and eateries of the hipster haven, North Park, all bookings include free parking.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $84 per night

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Hillside 420 oasis near Balboa ParkPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

See more photosStriking the balance between urban San Diego and stunning South Californian countryside, this self-contained guest house is 10 minutes from Balboa Park and the downtown core. It’s a snug pad that’ll benefit from a private patio and hot tub where you can relish the mild evening climate. The host goes the extra mile to care for guests with free wine and fresh eggs from the roving chickens. Cigarettes and cannabis are only to be smoked outside.

Two guests, one bedroom (studio)
Price: $145 per night

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Kelowna’s Best Wineries and Beyond: Plan Your Perfect Fall Trip

Picture yourself next to a vineyard sipping chilled chardonnay while the winemaker’s dogs laze under an autumn sun. After this tasting, you’ll hop on an e-bike and cruise to a winery bistro just down the road, or maybe hit a nearby farm for some fresh honey and preserves. With the summer crowds long gone, it’s easy to be spontaneous on a fall trip to Kelowna.

Everyone knows BC’s lakeside city shines in summer, with sandy beaches and roadside fruit stands. But locals love the Okanagan Valley when the heat dissipates and the aspen and larch trees begin to turn a golden hue. Autumn brings perfect hiking and cycling weather, with ample opportunities to fuel up thanks to the fall harvest. You can drink, eat, explore, and repeat the next day without missing a beat. Here’s how.

Taste all the wines

Photo: Tourism Kelowna / Shawn Talbot Photography

Wine grapes were first planted in Kelowna over 150 years ago. They’ve thrived here thanks to the valley’s unique terroir — that interplay between soil, climate, and vineyard that gives wines their unique taste and sense of place. There are now more than 40 wineries in the city, with tasting rooms pouring everything from pinot gris to zinfandel.

To learn about terroir-driven wines, reserve a seated tasting experience at Tantalus Vineyards. You’ll sample chardonnay, riesling, and pinot noir, all nurtured on the surrounding 75 acres. From your spot on the balcony, you can see exactly where the fermented grapes you’re drinking were grown. And at nearby Nagging Doubt Winery, a true garagiste (small-scale) operation, winemaker and owner Rob Westbury will walk you through a tasting inside the cellar room. You can try cold-climate whites such as siegerrebe and learn why this aromatic wine does so well in Kelowna.

For a more in-depth look at Kelowna’s wine scene, book a guided wine tour, where you’ll get plenty of insider intel on the best varietals and learn more about the industry. Most tour companies visit four wineries, with time built in to enjoy the views and visit the wine shop so you can take your favorite bottles home with you.

Bonus: Oenophiles should plan a visit during the Okanagan Fall Wine Festival, an annual celebration of wine held this year from Oct. 27 to Nov. 5, 2023. It’s a chance to attend grand tasting events and winemaker dinners, or explore one of Kelowna’s five scenic wine routes independently — the new “taste passport” lets you reserve tastings at six different wineries over a two-day period.

Sample the harvest

Photo: Tourism Kelowna / James O’Mara

Pairing the valley’s wines with farm-to-fork fare is easy in a city where chefs source their ingredients from local growers and foragers. Come fall, farmers are pulling plums and pears from their orchards, harvesting squash and root vegetables, or foraging for wild foods such as watercress. Some restaurants, such as Terrace at Mission Hill Family Estate, even have their own gardens, orchards, and beehives to supply fresh, seasonal foods. You’ll see this bounty reflected on the restaurant’s menu.

RauDZ Regional Table supports independent growers, and Chef Rod Butters is adept at incorporating from-the-valley ingredients in inventive ways. His menu includes a “fresh sheet” that highlights dishes made with seasonal foods, such as a grilled squash starter paired with the sauvignon blanc from Mission Hill. For a light lunch while wine touring, stop by the bistro at Meadow Vista Honey Wines. Enjoy the homemade soup and a panini sandwich with a flight of their honey wines courtesy of the beehives out back. Afterwards, learn more about these important pollinators on a self-guided bee tour that winds through the garden.

A walking food tour with A Taste of Kelowna is a great way to learn about the city’s dining scene while sampling. You’ll hit hip downtown spots such as The Curious for its popular wood-fired pizzas and the iconic BNA Brewing Co & Eatery — a craft brewery located in an historic tobacco warehouse that serves up favourites like zucchini fries and mushrooms on toast.

Another option is to indulge independently using the new Local Flavours Pass, a mobile pass that lets you collect points to redeem for prizes. It’s a great showcase of Kelowna’s growing agritourism sector, with many craftmakers, farms, and winery restaurants included.

Explore the valley’s wellness opportunities

Photo: Tourism Kelowna / Ken Hagen

If all of the above sounds like a lot of calories in, fear not. It’s easy to earn your wine and food rewards in Kelowna. Sunny fall days will inspire you to get outside to hike or mountain bike on the trails that wind up the surrounding mountains or paddle on Okanagan Lake.

Cyclists usually head for Myra Canyon to ride the Kettle Valley Railway. This decommissioned rail line is now a flat, packed-gravel pathway that crosses 18 train trestles and passes through two tunnels as it curves around a vertiginous canyon over a distance of 12 kilometres. The showstopper in October isn’t the lake view, but the forests of larch trees that cover the surrounding mountains in a carpet of gold. Closer to town, Mission Creek Greenway hugs the creek as it flows through the city. Pause your pedalling to look for orange kokanee salmon swimming in the shallows during September, or stop in at the Robert Hobson Environmental Education Centre for the Okanagan in Mission Creek Regional Park to learn about this local lake fish’s life cycle.

To really get your heart rate up, gain some elevation and see the fall colours on one of the city’s steeper hikes. The Lebanon Creek trail ascends from Okanagan Lake all the way to the Johns Family Nature Conservancy, which was just named Canada’s third nocturnal preserve (an area with minimal light pollution). After this quad burner, relax your muscles with a glass of wine and some goat yoga at Off the Grid Organic Winery (Sundays through September), or with a massage inside the salt cave at the Room + Pillar spa.

You can also walk it off downtown and take in the public art along the Waterfront Boardwalk. And since art appreciation is good for the soul, be sure to venture into the eclectic neighbourhood of Rutland, where over 20 murals painted by Canadian and international artists are on display.

Repeat it all the next day

Photo: Tourism Kelowna / Darren Hull Studios

Plan to stay awhile to properly explore the city. If you base yourself at one of the lakeside resorts, you’ll score easy access to paddle sports, trails, and restaurants. Many hotels, including the historic Hotel Eldorado, also have spas onsite for extra wellness options.

If you’re ready to slow down, breathe deep, and dive into the bounty of the Okanagan Valley this fall, Kelowna is ready for you. Find a great deal on a fall package at Tourism Kelowna.

You are welcome in Kelowna and the Central Okanagan, and we ask that you please travel safely. Local businesses are open and ready to serve you. We recommend you check current conditions and call ahead to any businesses you plan to visit if you have questions.

Bryce Canyon Country Is the Perfect, Less-Crowded Alternative To the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon sees around 5 million visitors a year for good reason: its grandeur is unlike any other place in the world. However, just a few hours away, there is another “canyon” national park that is smaller, much less trafficked, more colorful, and surrounded by distinct natural wonders. Bryce Canyon Country includes Bryce Canyon National Park, Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, Capitol Reef National Park, Kodachrome State Park, and so much more in its 3-million-plus acres of protected lands. It’s the perfect Grand Canyon alternative for anyone who wants to see Utah’s natural splendor without the same level of crowds — Bryce Canyon sees about 2.5 million annual visitors, Capitol Reef about 1.5 million, and not even one million visit Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument every year.

The Bryce Canyon Country parks and protected lands are home to hoodoos (which cannot be found in any other National Park), ancient petroglyphs, dinosaur bones, and thick, wooded forests. There are nearly endless exploration opportunities between the monuments.

There are many different ways to see Bryce Canyon Country depending on the kinds of activities you like to do or the activities you’re open to trying. You could spend a lifetime exploring this area, but most people usually only have a few days or a weekend to spare. These are a few must-see attractions, places to stay, and places to eat for your journey through Bryce Canyon Country.

Things to do in Bryce Canyon CountryGo horseback riding with Canyon Trail Rides

Anastassiya Bornstein/Shutterstock

One of the best ways to see the formations inside Bryce Canyon National Park is by horseback. There are specific trails in the park that are horse-only, and the only outfitted guide to lead tours is Canyon Trail Rides, which has been working in the park for more than 50 years. The company’s extremely educated and dedicated guides will take you down to the bottom of the red rock hoodoos that are only accessible by horseback.

On both the two- and three-hour tour, the guide shares information about how the hoodoos were formed, the bristlecone pines that carpet the floor, and the legends of the cowboy that have rode through the canyon walls. It’s not only a stunning ride, but also more fun to be riding a horse than hiking down then back up the steep canyon trails.

It’s always important to know that even though the bottom of the canyon can be up to 20-degrees hotter, you should wear long pants to prevent rubbing as you ride and you should secure all hats before departure. No bags of any kind are allowed on the tours.

Canyon Trail Rides: 280 Bryce Way, Tropic, UT 84776

Canyoneer with Expeditions of Escalante

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The nearly 2 million acres that make up Grand Staircase Escalante are seemingly unexplored, yet there are people like Rick Greene of Expeditions of Escalante who have spent decades wandering through as many of the sandrock canyons as they can squeeze through. There is only one designated trail in the entire monument. The rest is completely open for exploration, and Rick has found 33 incredible spots he likes to take his tour groups.

Expeditions of Escalante leads all day adventures that range from easy slot canyon hikes to more extreme repelling expeditions depending on how comfortable people feel pushing their limits and going, literally, over the edge with Rick. Before you go on any canyoneering expedition with him, he will give you an extensive safety briefing. All tours come with coffee and tea at his headquarters before departure, a packed lunch, water, all the required gear, and ice cream at the end.

Make sure to read and sign all of the waivers before arriving, as you won’t be able to head out if you haven’t come prepared and properly dressed. You must wear long shorts or pants (leggings are not recommended due to tearing, and long sleeves can be necessary), and sturdy hiking shoes are an absolute must.

Expeditions of Escalante: 125 E Main St, Escalante, UT 84726

Take a ride with Grand Staircase ATV

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An easy way to explore the wonders around Bryce Canyon Country is by ATV or UTV (side-by-side). With Grand Staircase ATV’s Justin and Bree Shakespeare, you can either drive your own four-wheeler or have them show you around on theirs. Regardless, they will share their knowledge of the area and take you to all of their favorite places.

Bree and Justin have been guiding tours for almost 20 years, and both grew up in the town of Tropic. They truly know the ins and outs of the monument, the public lands, and Bryce Canyon National Park. They have miles and miles of trails they can take you through on one of their one-day expeditions, or you can get adventurous and take a three-day trip that includes lodging and all your meals.

Grand Staircase ATV:

Where to eat in Bryce Canyon Country

i.d.k BBQ

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Between adventures in Grand Staircase National Monument and Bryce Canyon National Park, make a stop in the town of Tropic for quick and delicious barbecue. Pick between a meat plate, barbecue sandwich, nachos, baked potato, or salad, and don’t forget the peach cobbler in a cone for dessert.

i.d.k. BBQ: 161 N Main St, Tropic, UT 84776

4th West Pub

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Grab dinner at the only pub on Utah’s Scenic Highway 12, which runs between Capitol Reef National Park and Bryce Canyon, at 4th West Pub in Escalante. Enjoy local beers and classic bar fare at this renovated service station. Try to time a visit with trivia nights, held every third Thursday of the month, or during one of the live music shows on the second Saturday of each month.

4th West Pub: 425 W Main St, Escalante, UT 84726

Ebenezer’s

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Looking for a different type of dinner experience? Check out a country Western show at Ebenezer’s Barn & Grill from April to October, where you can enjoy a cowboy meal of flank steak, barbecue, or baked salmon or chicken while listening to The Bryce Canyon Wranglers share the story of Bryce Canyon National Park through classic country hits and original pieces. It’s fun for the entire family.

Ebenezer’s: 110 Center St, Bryce Canyon City, UT 84764

Kiva Koffeehouse

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This might be one of the most beautiful coffee shops in Utah. Kiva Koffeehouse was designed to blend harmoniously with the Southern Utah landscape. There are 180-degree views from inside, along with a patio that has 360-degree views and a view down into the valley below, making it a spectacular destination coffeehouse for more than just caffeine. Note that the shop is only open Wednesday to Sunday, and the kitchen closes daily at 3 PM.

Kiva Koffeehouse: 7144 UT-12, Escalante, UT 84726

Pizza Place

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Pizza Place has been rated the best pizza in Southern Utah year after year. The recipes have been passed through generations since the early 1990s. Enjoy a specialty pizza or create your own at this Utah staple.

Pizza Place: 21 N Main St, Tropic, UT 84776

Where to stay in Bryce Canyon CountryUnder Canvas

Under Canvas is a world-renowned luxury, off-grid glamping resort with two locations near Bryce Canyon Country. The Bryce Canyon location is 15 minutes from Bryce Canyon National Park and the Powell-Grand Staircase location is on the south side of Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument with access to the public lands in less than 10 minutes.

Under Canvas Bryce Canyon has 50 solar-powered canvas tent sites perfect for solo-travelers, couples, or families thanks to a variety of tent options that can sleep between two and six people. Each tent comes with an outdoor and indoor lounging area and a wood-burning stove inside to keep you warm during the chilly nights. Full bathrooms, battery operated lights, and a battery pack for charging small devices like cell phones are only a few of the other amenities you’ll also enjoy. There are also outlets in the attendant’s tent and bathrooms for plugging in larger items, and blow dryers are available at the front desk.

The on-site restaurant, Embers, serves delicious, locally-sourced breakfast, lunch, and dinner that you can enjoy al fresco around the propane-fueled bonfires. There are also complementary s’mores every evening along with free events and hiking trails that can be enjoyed by all.

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Canyon Country Lodge

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If glamping isn’t your thing, stay at a more traditional hotel in the town of Escalante. The Canyon Country Lodge has all that you’d expect from a hotel, including a hot tub, swimming pool, fitness area, and laundry services. It also has an on-site restaurant and complimentary breakfast every morning. The rooms come in standard king size suites or double queen beds each with wifi and smart TVs. The bathrooms feature large walk-in showers with organic bath products.

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Ruby’s Inn

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The closest lodging to Bryce Canyon National Park is the historic Ruby’s Inn, which has been operating for over 100 years. It is situated just yards from the entrance to the park and is the pick up location for the park’s shuttle system.

Ruby’s Inn features many different kinds of lodging options, from RV hook-ups and tipi campsites to luxury king suites with in-room jacuzzi spas. The Inn also has three different dining options to satisfy every hunger pain. The Cowboy Buffet & Steak Room offers sit-down breakfast, lunch, and dinner; The Canyon Diner has fast grab-and-go options and pizza; while Ebenezer’s Barn & Grill features a country music show during dinner every summer night. It also has one of the best gift shops outside of the park.

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