Matador Network's Blog, page 256
August 16, 2023
How To Successfully Play the Standby Game for Cheap Last-Minute Flights
Flying standby used to be like balancing your checkbook — it was a bit of a tedious pain, but the process was remarkably simple. You just showed up at the airport without a ticket a few hours in advance, put your name on the standby list with the gate agent, and if seats were available once all the ticketed passengers were checked in, you were issued a seat at a significant discount. Things change, however. Now flying standby is more like online banking. At first it looks like calculus, but once you learn how to navigate it, it’s actually incredibly easy. If you don’t, however, you might feel like a member of an older generation caught up in the undertow of the changing times. Luckily, flying standby is still a great value, and doing it isn’t just for the frequent flier. Here’s how to successfully play the standby game in this new era of airport travel.
Know your airline’s standby policyFirst, and perhaps most importantly, not all airlines are created equal when it comes to standby. Each airline has its own policy that dictates how you should navigate the standby system. Alaska Airlines, for example, offers free same-day standby to passengers with pre-purchased tickets, but only for nonstop flights between Anchorage and Fairbanks, Seattle, and Portland, and between Seattle and Spokane. That means if you already have tickets for one flight, you could potentially get on an earlier flight to those destinations by showing up at the departure gate at least 30 minutes in advance.
Southwest Airlines, by contrast, offers free standby seats to select passengers, including Business, Wanna Get Away, and Senior fares. You must also ask to be added to the same-day standby list at least 10 minutes before the departure time of your original flight, or you will be considered a no-show.
Other airlines make it slightly more difficult to fly standby, or don’t offer the service at all. American Airlines, Delta, United, and JetBlue all charge a $75 standby fee — with various stipulations — which might dissuade many passengers from pursuing a standby ticket at all. Allegiant Air doesn’t offer traditional standby flights at all, but instead allows passengers who bought TripFlex fares to change their flight and destination within an hour of departure.
Whether you’re flying on these or other airlines, always be sure you’re familiar with the most up-to-date policy.
Be flexible with your travel plansTo give yourself the best chance of not only flying at your desired time but also getting a cost break on the fare, you’ll need to have some flexibility. That means flying at inopportune times (like 6:00 AM), or even changing which airport you fly into.
For example, instead of traveling at peak hours on the busiest days, try flying on slower days, like Saturdays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. These days don’t see as many business commuters, which leads to lower fares and planes that are less crowded. Flights that leave particularly early or late are also a good bet for nabbing a standby ticket. If the flight time makes you go, “ugh,” at first glance, chances are other passengers feel the same, and have opted for more neutral flight times. Whether it’s a 6:00 AM flight or a 11:00 PM red-eye, you’ll have better luck with off-hour fares.
The same rule applies to destination airports. If your desired standby flight is from Boston to London Heathrow, but you’ve been told odds are slim of grabbing a spare seat, try a Boston to Gatwick flight instead. Flights to smaller regional airports can be both cheaper and often less desirable, meaning your odds of getting onboard are higher. This isn’t just true for international flights, either. Instead of flying from Denver to LAX, check out flights to Hollywood Burbank Airport. There may be fewer total flights going there, but chances are more seats will be available.
Preparing for standby is a bit differentShowing up to the airport for a standby flight is a little different from a regular flight. While the basics of the airport experience are pretty much the same, you’ll need to prepare a bit differently. How you pack, for example, is huge. When flying standby, avoid checking any bags. This is because standby passengers aren’t given tickets until all other ticketed passengers have checked-in and given allocated seats, meaning there may not be enough room on the plane for your checked bags. In this case, your bags would be put on a later flight, somewhat defeating the purpose of catching that earlier standby flight in the first place. But if you’re spontaneous enough to fly standby, you’re probably low-maintenance enough to make everything fit in a carry-on.
In addition to packing light, it’s also a good idea to get there early — at least three hours before the flight you want. Right when you arrive, ask the ticket or gate agent to put your name on the same-day standby list. The chance of getting on a standby flight is higher earlier in the day than later, since earlier flights tend to be less packed. And if you don’t make your desired flight, you’ll still have enough time to catch another flight. There will be a screen in the boarding area with the standby list, so you can keep track of your status (and the status of other passengers).
Even if you do get on your desired flight, you could be waiting around awhile. Plan ahead by bringing your laptop, a book, toys (if traveling with kids), and anything else to keep you occupied. Indeed patience is one of the most important tools for winning the standby game. 
August 15, 2023
End an Action-Packed Day at Acadia National Park at One of These Gorgeous New England Luxury Hotels
Acadia National Park stretches over a rocky and mountainous coastal landscape of the Maine coast. The park has a wild beauty reminiscent of the Pacific Northwest and is home to an extensive network of hiking trails (120 miles, in fact) and its 30 lakes are prime fishing, biking, and boating spots. Mount Desert Island, where the majority of the park is located, has a quintessentially New England atmosphere, with charming fishing villages, bustling lobster boats, and colorful buoys dotting the harbors. While there are no lodges within the boundaries, there are plenty of hotels near Acadia National Park for anyone who would prefer a comfortable bed after a day of adventuring.
Close to Acadia are many pretty towns and villages. The largest, Bar Harbor, has everything from classic New England bed and breakfasts to luxurious waterfront hotels, all just minutes from the park entrance. Smaller towns like Southwest Harbor also offer options a little further from the summer crowds. The area offers so much to do, you might find yourself staying for an extended period to relax and take in the beautiful region. It’s also easy to get to the park’s entrance, so you can come and go as you please.
The hotels here have been selected for their proximity to Acadia, but also excellent visitor reviews, range of amenities, level of customer service, and overall ambience.
We hope you love the hotels near Acadia National Park 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.
What is the best month to visit Acadia National Park?September through early October is widely considered the best time to visit. During this period, the summer crowds have dwindled, but the temperatures are still pleasant. It’s the perfect time to witness the fall foliage — from maple, oak, beech, birch, and elm trees — as the colors change. The weather is also ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the park’s numerous trails.
Under Canvas Acadia
Photo: Expedia
Photo: Expedia
Photo: ExpediaFor those who enjoy camping, but would rather have more luxurious accommodations, Under Canvas delivers. The brand has multiple locations around the US close to major national parks and offers a safari camp like experience with glamping tents, excellent amenities and facilities (yoga, kayaking, and paddleboarding) and the service of a five star hotel. Acadia’s campsite has stunning waterfront views. It’s a 30-minute-to-one-hour drive to the park’s entrance, which is far enough from crowds, but close enough if you want to do a multi-day exploration of Acadia. Top that off with an abundance of s’mores supplies and a crackling campfire, it’s easy to see why Under Canvas is one of the most popular options for those looking for an authentic national park experience. The glamping site is open from mid-May to mid-October and books up in advance.
Under Canvas Acadia : 702 Surry Rd, Surry, ME, 04684
Price per night: $488
Book NowThe Bayview
Photo: Expedia
Photo: Expedia
Photo: ExpediaThe Bayview is a sprawling waterfront property overlooking Frenchman Bay in Bar Harbor. The town makes an ideal base for visiting Acadia. The drive takes under 30 minutes and is just as picturesque as the park itself. Also from town, The Island Explorer provides free shuttle service during the summer to destinations within and around the park, including trailheads. Even if you do have a vehicle, using the shuttle helps minimize congestion on the Park Loop Road.
Bayview features 26 well-appointed accommodations, all situated directly on the ocean. The interior design reflects the area’s maritime heritage, with nautical touches and soothing color palettes. Grounds are extensive and well maintained. Here you’ll find an outdoor pool, grilling facilities, and picnic benches. The complimentary breakfast is a guest favorite and is served in the main dining room that overlooks the porch and water.
The Bayview : 111 Eden St, Bar Harbor, ME, 04609
Price per night: $399
Book NowThe Claremont Hotel
Photo: Expedia
Photo: Expedia
Photo: ExpediaSituated in Southwest Harbor, The Claremont Hotel is located around 20 — 25 minutes from Acadia. The drive is an experience in itself, and once you arrive, finding parking is generally not an issue, especially if you plan to visit earlier in the day. With designated parking lots available near popular attractions, you can easily explore the park without worrying about your vehicle, but again, there are shuttle services from town.
As a top commercial harbor in Maine, Southwest Harbor has some of the best seafood restaurants in New England. But you don’t need to venture too far from The Claremont Hotel to enjoy excellent food. The hotel is famed for its farm-to-table local food offerings at the three on-property dining options. Little Fern is the standout eatery. Dishes such as squash-nestled halibut, corn fritters, and seared scallops on a bed of local grains, draw in locals as well as hotel guests.
The hotel is reminiscent of a water-front resort and is one of the oldest remaining hotels on the island, dating back to the late 1800s. If you are traveling with a family, this is a superb option. There are 24 rooms (which are more suitable to a couple or solo traveler) and an array of suites in adjacent cottages and cabins for those traveling in a group.
The Claremont Hotel : 22 Claremont Rd, Southwest Harbor, ME, 04679
Price per night: $385
Book NowTerramor Outdoor ResortAnother excellent outdoor resort in Bar Harbor is Terramor. This is the brand’s flagship property and combines the comforts of a resort with glamping and the beauty of the great outdoors. Surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Mount Desert Island and just a stone’s throw away from Acadia National Park, Terramor’s spacious canvas tents have comfortable essentials paired with indulgent touches, like WiFi, in-room diffusers and deluxe bedding and private decks. There’s a range of tent size and style to choose from. The largest sleeps up to five guests and the two-bed options are perfect for a romantic getaway.
Terramor Outdoor Resort : 1453 ME-102, Bar Harbor, ME, 04609
Price per night: $337
Book NowAtlantic Oceanside Hotel
Photo: Expedia
Photo: Expedia
Photo: ExpediaAtlantic Oceanside Hotel also overlooks Frenchman Bay and is comprised of five buildings. It’s a popular spot for large events as the grounds are expansive and even include a private beach. This is another superb option, perhaps the best for those traveling with kids and want something budget-friendly. The spacious outdoor areas, including a playground, provide a safe place for the families to hangout after a day exploring Acadia. The interior is nothing special, it’s dated, but rooms are comfortable and functional. Although this area of Bar Harbor has a good handful of hotels, the Atlantic Oceanside’s property trumps others and provides privacy, which is welcome in the busy summer and leaf-peaking seasons.
Atlantic Oceanside Hotel : 1453 ME-102, Bar Harbor, ME, 04609
Price per night: $245
Book NowBest Western Acadia Park Inn
Photo: Expedia
Photo: Expedia
Photo: ExpediaThe Best Western’s exterior is nothing to write home about, but the lobby and rooms are a lot more inviting. It’s situated two miles from Acardia, making this one of the closest options if you are passing through the region and only plan on staying for a night or two. Rooms are styled simply with spacious marble-topped bathrooms, coffeemakers, small refrigerators, and microwaves. On-site there’s a heated outdoor pool, laundry facilities, and complementary homemade cookies and whoopie pies are available in the lobby in the evening.
Best Western Acadia Park Inn : 452 State Highway 3, Bar Harbor, ME, 04609
Price per night: $243
Book NowTop things to do in Acadia National ParkHike the Trails: Regardless of your hiking skill or fitness level, the park’s 120 miles of trails offer something for everyone. Don’t miss the iconic Jordan Pond Path or challenge yourself with the exhilarating Precipice Trail.
Take a Scenic Drive: Cruise along the Park Loop Road, a 27-mile scenic route that showcases the park’s natural beauty — rugged coastlines, granite peaks, and forests.
Explore Mount Desert Island: Mount Desert Island is home to Cadillac Mountain (the tallest mountain on the Atlantic Coast of the United States.) Get up there early to enjoy an epic sunrise.
Bike the Carriage Roads: Hop on a bike and explore the Carriage Roads, a network of picturesque gravel paths that wind through forests, around lakes, and over stone bridges.
Sand Beach: Take a dip or relax on the sandy shores of Sand Beach. Surrounded by towering cliffs, this scenic spot is perfect for a beach day with a breathtaking backdrop.
Climb the Precipice: For climbers, tackle the challenging Precipice Trail. This exhilarating climb involves ladders, iron rungs, and stunning views at every turn.
Wildlife: Keep an eye out for the park’s diverse wildlife. From bald eagles soaring overhead to seals basking on the rocks, Acadia offers incredible opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts.
Stargazing: The park’s dark skies provide a perfect backdrop for stargazing and spotting constellations. The west side of Mount Desert Island is a fantastic spot, or those willing to venture a bit further, Schoodic Peninsula is the most remote area within the park for stargazing.
What To Do if an Airline Loses Your Bag
Part of why traveling is so stressful doesn’t have anything to do with the traveler themselves. Yeah, getting yourself to the airport on time, making it through security hassle-free, finding your gate, overpaying for food, and praying for no delays, can be anxiety-inducing. But even if you make it through all that, the biggest potential headache still awaits. Once you land at your destination you’re supposed to be home free, but instead, you’re faced with the nail-biting experience of waiting for your luggage at the baggage carousel and running through disaster scenarios in your head if your bags don’t show up. It’s unlikely, but it does happen. Maybe it’s even happened to you. Don’t worry, though. If your bags don’t appear on the carousel, you’re not completely up the creek. Here’s what’s usually happening behind the scenes when bags are lost, and what you can do to make the best of the situation.
How are bags lost, anyway?First, it’s important to understand how rare it is for bags to be lost or delayed at all. Though it’s one of travelers’ most pervasive fears, the actual chance of losing your bag is minuscule.
“Less than one percent of all U.S. flyers face lost, delayed or damaged bags,” says Scott Mayerowitz, founder of GlobeTrotScott Strategies and former executive editor at The Points Guy. “The most common issue is flight delays, especially on connecting itineraries. When major hub airports like Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, or Houston have bad summer thunderstorms it causes a series of delays and all too often bags get stranded or placed on the wrong plane.”
This assessment is corroborated by Ross Feinstein, a consultant and aviation expert who used to lead communications for American Airlines and the TSA. “The majority of mishandled bags occurs usually during irregular operations,” he says, “which could be the result of weather delays, cancellations or a mechanical issue — usually that’s when we see bags piling up, especially during major storms that delay and cancel a large number of flights.”
Feinstein stresses, however, that even “lost” bags aren’t actually lost. They’re simply delayed to a later flight. Tracking systems implemented by airlines are sophisticated enough that bags are extremely rarely lost forever – it just might take longer than you’d like to reunite with them on the other side.
“Bags aren’t actually lost,” he says, “but due to a delay on a connecting flight, for example, the bag might be mishandled. I can’t stress enough how rare it is for an airline to actually lose a bag.”
If your bag doesn’t show up on the carousel, what’s the best course of action?Okay, so your fears became reality and your luggage never showed up at baggage claim. You’re standing there feeling helpless, annoyed, confused, and maybe a little cold, because your extra sweater was in your suitcase. Now what?
“First, check your phone,” Mayerowitz advises. “If you have the airline’s app downloaded, you might know as soon as you land that your bag didn’t make the journey with you. Some airlines will let you file a claim right there and will send your bag to your home or hotel. Others make you go to the baggage office near the carousel. File a claim and save that claim number.”
Indeed, apps seem to be travelers’ best tools for both locating their luggage and connecting with the airline to resolve the issue.
“Delta Air Lines uses RFID tags in all of the baggage tags that are affixed to bags to track bags throughout their system,” Feinstein says, “and customers can use the Delta app to track their bags in realtime. American Airlines and United Airlines scan bags at numerous points throughout a bag’s journey with a laser scanner, and like Delta customers can track their bags using their respective apps.”
But you don’t have to rely on airline apps for tracking, either. Particularly diligent passengers can take matters into their own hands, like adding an Apple AirTag to your bag so you can track it yourself.
“With all of this bag tracking technology at your disposal,” says Feinstein, “a customer will most likely receive a notification from the airline that their bag has been delayed, and in many cases, be asked to fill out some information electronically via their mobile phone. This usually includes a bag description and the address you will want the bag delivered to. Additionally, you can visit the baggage service office to file a claim.”
Decades ago, passengers who lost their bag may have truly been at a loss, resigned to standing in line to speak to a surly customer service rep. Now, with all the tracking technology available to both airlines and passengers, we don’t even need to wait around until every bag arrives on the carousel to figure out our bags have been delayed, or to take action about it.
How will the airline make it up to you?When you’re wronged, there’s a certain expectation that whoever wronged you will extend an olive branch somehow. While that’s technically true for lost baggage, there’s no universal set of rules dictating how airlines compensate passengers whose baggage they’ve lost.
“The U.S. Department of Transportation does set maximum liabilities for airlines,” Mayerowitz says. “It’s $3,800 on a domestic flight. For international flights, the limit is actually lower; $1,700. Airlines can pay passengers more than that amount, but I would never advise anybody to check expensive laptops or other items that might not survive the trip. If you paid for a premium cabin or have elite status with the airline, you might be able to negotiate a higher settlement.”
If your baggage is lost, and you’re forced to buy new clothes or essentials to tide you over while you wait for your bag, you could be eligible for reimbursement. Mayerowitz advises keeping all receipts for new toiletries or clothing that you purchase during your bag’s delay. Airlines will usually reimburse you for “reasonable expenses” due to a bag delay.
Every airline, however, has a different policy when it comes to reimbursement for baggage delays.
According to Feinstein, Delta passengers are entitled to reasonable expense reimbursements (clothes, toiletries, etc.) if their bags are delayed – “reasonable” generally being defined as $50 per day. For United passengers, customers whose bags were delayed somewhere other than where they live may submit a claim for reimbursement of expenses, along with receipts, for the period their bags were delayed. If the bags aren’t found after five days, the customer may also submit a claim for their lost bags.
Similarly, on Southwest, if your luggage is delayed or lost for reasons outside of your control, you can file a mishandled baggage report at the airport and submit a claim for consideration of reimbursement of reasonable expenses. If you paid an excess baggage fee to Southwest and your checked bag was delayed and not recovered, they’ll refund the applicable fees.
All of that is to say: don’t go buying a whole new wardrobe if your bag is delayed. That almost certainly won’t be considered a “reasonable expense.”
Playing the waiting gameEven if you’ve filed a claim with the airline, and know your luggage will eventually be returned to you, waiting around is still pretty stressful – especially if you’re on a short vacation and need your bags. So, how long can you expect to wait? The answer, as with most airline-related questions, depends on a multitude of factors.
“It depends on your trip,” Mayerowitz says. “Travelers to remote international destinations with just one flight a day are probably going to need to wait until the next day’s flight –- assuming it’s daily service. Those on shorter domestic trips should hopefully see their bag by the end of the day or early the next day. If there are massive storms and thousands of bags are delayed, it could take much longer.”
The only surefire way to prevent baggage loss is by not checking a bag at all. Those who value traveling economically would advocate this strategy anyway. But to minimize your risk while checking a bag, make sure you have enough clothing in your carry-on to last at least three days. That way, in the rare event your checked bags are lost, you won’t have to worry about wearing the same shirt all week.
In Charleston, South Carolina, North America’s Deepest Aquarium Houses Sharks and Turtles
The South Carolina Aquarium, more commonly referred to as the Charleston Aquarium because of its location, has the deepest aquarium in North America: the Great Ocean Tank. In this 385,000-gallon tank that is so tall it stretches from the first to the third floor, you’ll see sharks, a 220-pound loggerhead sea turtle, and many more fish, each more intriguing and beautiful than the next. But the aquarium is home to all sorts of animals beyond fish: a rehabilitated bald eagle named Liberty, a large pink spoonbill named Pearl, and adorable river otters. Need another reason for visiting? The aquarium hosts adult-only night visits where you can wonder the galleries with a canapé on one hand and glass of wine in the other.
Where is the South Carolina Aquarium?What are the hours of the Charleston Aquarium?How long does it take to go through the Charleston Aquarium?How much does it cost to get into the Charleston Aquarium?Parking at the Charleston aquariumHow many animals are the in Charleston Aquarium?Are there penguins in the Charleston Aquarium?Is there a webcam at the Charleston Aquarium?Can I spend New Year’s Eve at the Charleston Aquarium?The best hotels near the Charleston AquariumWhere is the South Carolina Aquarium?The South Carolina Aquarium is located in the town of Charleston, South Carolina. More specifically, the aquarium is situated in downtown Charleston, in Liberty Square, a national park site on the shores of the Cooper River.
What are the hours of the Charleston Aquarium?The aquarium is open every day, from 9 AM to 5 PM. On December 24, it is open from 9 AM to 1 PM. The aquarium is closed on Thanksgiving Day and on Christmas Day (December 25).
The aquarium also offers after-hours events for adults only.
How long does it take to go through the Charleston Aquarium?There is a lot to see and experience at the aquarium, so budget at least 1.5 hours for your visit. That said, if you’re not rushed at all, considered spending half a day at the aquarium. There’s a café (The Sea Turtle café) open from 11 AM to 3 PM, or you can bring your own snacks and water, making it easy to spend uninterrupted quality time at the aquarium. Also, your ticket is valid for the entire day, so you can go in and out if you need a break.
How much does it cost to get into the Charleston Aquarium?Admission fees fluctuates according to demand/potential demand and starts at $28.95 for adults. The best way to get the cheapest price is to take a good look at the aquarium’s calendar well ahead of your visit and book your tickets for the price and time that suits you best.
Does the Charleston Aquarium offer any discount?Children between the ages of three and 12 pay less than adults (admission for them start at $23.15), and children under the age of three enter for free. There are no senior or military discounts offered at the aquarium.
Parking at the Charleston aquariumYou can park in the Aquarium Garage, the parking garage located on Calhoun Street (24 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC 29401) just three minutes away on foot. The parking garage charges $1 every 30 minutes and a maximum of $18 per day. You can also opt to park along Washington Street and Concord Street, but you’ll need to make sure to put enough money in the meter for the length of your visit.
How many animals are the in Charleston Aquarium?@southcarolinaaquarium It’s mighty finteresting how different fish can be! #aquarium #southcarolinaaquarium #sargassum #sargassumfish #gill ♬ Beautiful Paradise – Aga Alamsyah
There are over 5,000 animals at the aquarium, including American alligators, a bald eagle named Liberty, a barn owl named Pippen, a skunk named Sassy, a variety of sea turtles and snakes, tree frogs, river otters, and more.
Are there penguins at the Charleston Aquarium?@southcarolinaaquarium Watchin’ in slow motion#spoonbill #bird #topgun #aquarium ♬ Take My Breath Away (Love Theme from "Top Gun") – Berlin
While there have been penguins at the aquarium in the past, this is not the case any longer. That said, there are other beautiful birds: a bald eagle, a barn owl, an American kestrel, roseate spoonbills, and more.
Is there a webcam at the Charleston Aquarium?There is a webcam looking from the aquarium towards the Cooper River. You can see the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, the ferries heading to and from the Fort Sumter National Monument, and other boat traffic on the river.
Can I spend New Year’s Eve at the Charleston Aquarium?View this post on InstagramA post shared by South Carolina Aquarium (@southcarolinaaquarium)
While there was a New Year’s Eve event at the Charleston Aquarium on December 31, 2022, the event is not currently mentioned on the Aquarium’s website for 2023. Keep an eye on their events calendar, however. In 2022, New Year’s Eve at the aquarium was a family-friendly event with a DJ and face painting.
The Aquarium Aglow evening event, however, will take place during the 2023 holiday season. There will be ten of thousands of lights as well as holiday-themed installations and displays.
The best hotels near the Charleston Aquariumif you’re looking into renting an Airbnb rather than a hotel when in Charleston, check out Matador’s selection of 15 Airbnbs in Charleston to experience true southern charm.
We hope you love the 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.
Zero George Street
Photo: Expedia
Photo: Expedia
Photo: Expedia
Photo: ExpediaSee more photosThe Zero George Street hotel is a luxury boutique property located just nine minutes on foot from the aquarium. The hotel consists of 19th-century buildings that have been fully renovated to become a charming and sophisticated retreat in the heart of the city. The rooms, suites, and residences are all beautifully decorated in muted colors and high-quality, comfortable furniture, creating a cozy, yet chic atmosphere that’s just to make guests feel instantly at home. There’s a lovely inner courtyard where you can relax, as well as a highly praised restaurant-bar on site for all your fine cuisine needs. The hotel organizes cooking classes, wine tastings, and floral design classes for guests who want to combine a lovely vacation with a learning experience.
Book NowThe Dewberry Charleston
Photo: Expedia
Photo: Expedia
Photo: Expedia
Photo: ExpediaSee more photosThe Dewberry Charleston is a five-star hotel located less than 15 minutes on foot from the aquarium. The 154 guests rooms at this property are tastefully decorated and furnished with carefully selected high-quality pieces. But the luxury goes beyond the furnishings: There’s a spa where you can book customized body and facial treatments, a fitness center, a chic restaurant, and a cocktail bar located on the eighth floor and offering beautiful views.
Book NowThe Pinch Hotel
Photo: Expedia
Photo: Expedia
Photo: Expedia
Photo: ExpediaSee more photosThe Pinch Hotel is a four-star luxury hotel located in Charleston’s shopping area, a little more than 15 minutes away from the aquarium on foot. With patterned wallpaper, ratan furniture, bouclé armchairs, and velvet textiles, this property is at the top of all the interior decoration trends, making the space feel very luxurious and contemporary but also home-like. The fact that there are only 24 guests rooms adds to the feeling of homeliness and intimacy. Every room and suite has its own kitchen and in-room washer and dryer, and you can book your accommodation on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. There’s a spa on site and you can have access to the 24-hour gym next door. The best part is the free breakfast consisting of freshly baked items from a local bakery.
These Kyoto Airbnbs Let You Experience Traditional Japanese Hospitality
Staying in an Airbnb when visiting Kyoto is a great idea for anyone looking to experience the city like a local. An Airbnb rental gives travelers access to unique neighborhoods and accommodation options that can’t be found elsewhere. Furthermore, many Airbnb rentals are located close to popular tourist attractions, making them ideal for those who want easy access to the area’s must-see sights. These Kyoto Airbnbs showcase the best of the city.
Traveling to Japan? Check out Matador’s Japan accommodations guides: These Tokyo Ryokan Make for the Perfect Traditional Stay in Japan The Top Tokyo Hotels in Each Must-See Neighborhood 12 Tokyo Airbnbs in the Heart of the Incredible City
We hope you love these Airbnb Kyoto vacation rentals! 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.
Beautiful traditional home
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosA famous Kyoto-based architect oversaw this stunning property’s renovation, which is beautifully done to reflect traditional architectural and design decor blended with modern necessities. The inside feels sleek and clean, with lots of natural wood tones. There are two beds in the main bedroom and futons provided in the tatami room for additional guests. Guests can even enjoy a hosted Japanese breakfast and dinner for an extra fee.
Five guests two bedrooms
Price: $632 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis traditional, two-story machiya dates back to the Taisho era — meaning it boasts more than one hundred years of history. The name “Shinsen” is derived from one of the oldest famous courtyards in Kyoto during the Heian Period, which is located near the property. Guests will enjoy a space made with original, traditional craftsmanship, and outfitted with lots of wood. Spend time admiring the Japanese courtyard (designed by an expert courtyard designer,) which is outfitted with a hand-built bathtub made of Japanese cypress, through the floor-to-ceiling windows and doors of the living room. The second floor also features a Japanese dry garden. The kitchen features a microwave, refrigerator, coffee machine kettle, and tableware.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $319 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis unique, beautifully renovated, century-old machiya boasts a charming blend of the traditional and modern Japanese spirit. Design elements, including sliding wooden doors with wa-shi partition, a private garden, and contemporary comforts, make it a great place to stay right inside the serene Chomyoji Temple. There are two bedrooms with tatami and four sets of Japanese-style futons, and a kitchen equipped with all the appliances you may need during your stay (including a Nespresso machine). In the garden, enjoy the Shigaraki outdoor bathtub, made with original ceramic craftsmanship.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $378 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis authentic, idyllic Kyoto-style wooden house is located directly on the Kamo River — just three minutes’ walking distance from Shichijo station. It’s a stunning and peaceful property, with beautiful views and everything needed for a comfortable overnight stay — including multiple bedrooms, a dining room space and kitchen, a spacious living room, a garden, and a bathroom with a cozy soaking tub.
Seven guests, four bedrooms
Price: $297 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThe bright and welcoming “Kyouran Seseragi-an” property is close to public transportation and is a one-of-a-kind rental townhouse. It comprises of four connecting buildings by the tranquil Kamogawa River in Kyoto, built with high-quality Japanese Hinoki cypress wood. Guests will pass through the “Hongawara” gate and into a well-manicured front garden before entering the front door to find a welcoming, open living space. Design elements include high-end Kyoto Nishijin textiles and Japanese umbrellas, as well as thoughtful mood lighting, which ushers in a sense of warmth. Guests shouldn’t miss relaxing in the spacious soaking tub overlooking the garden.
Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $227 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis gorgeous two-story Kyomachiya property is a 5-minute walk to the popular attraction, the Ogane Shrine, in a lively neighborhood with many trendy restaurants. The floors are heated on the first floor, and each bedroom is air-conditioned for maximum comfort regardless of season. There’s a kitchen, a living room, and multiple courtyards — and the traditional decor of the space feels elegant but welcoming.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $530 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee mor\e photosThis two-story Machiya is located near Nijo Castle — a ten-minute walk from Nijo station. The space embraces the peace and serenity of nature within the modern and luxurious comforts of a home. Guests will encounter tatami rooms, a semi-open air soaking tub, and a beautiful traditional garden space. The garden follows the Japanese philosophy of worshiping the seasons, featuring sakura blossoms in spring, a little pond surrounded by greens in summer, red maple leaves in autumn, and snow on Japanese black pine in winter.
Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $283 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis charmingly traditional property offers a sense of peace. There are multiple bedrooms, a garden, a soaking tub with a garden view, and a well-equipped kitchen. Added luxuries include heated floors, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, modern kitchen appliances, and all the cozy amenities to enjoy a relaxing bath.
Seven guests, three bedrooms
Price: $276 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis two-story Kyomachiya-style property is conveniently located 15 minutes walking distance from Kyoto station. It’s outfitted with the finest furniture and the comfiest bed, as well as added amenities like heated floors and a big bathtub for soaking. There are two semi-double beds and two Japanese futon beds for sleeping. The kitchen is fully outfitted with an electric kettle, a microwave and a refrigerator. Spend time on the first floor lounging on the large sofa set in a traditional relaxing Japanese-style living room. Take in the fresh sights of the garden, which can be seen from the living room.
Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $323 per night
Airbnbs in Japan are often significantly more affordable than traditional hotel rooms (especially for those seeking an entire house to rent).
Can I rent an Airbnb in Japan?Yes – Airbnb is legal in Japan.
What area of Kyoto is best to stay in?It’s said that some of the best neighborhoods for visitors to stay in Kyoto and explore include Downtown Kawaramachi, Gion, and Central Kyoto.
Should I stay in Arashiyama or Kyoto?Arashiyama is an easy day trip from Kyoto for those who want to stay in the city — but for those who seek a more peaceful, authentic experience, the Arashiyama area can be a great place to set as a home base while traveling into Kyoto for its tourist attractions.
Should I stay in Osaka or Kyoto?It’s said that the less “touristy” Osaka offers more affordable accommodations and better nightlife than Kyoto. But for those who seek a more traditional Japanese experience and are willing to spend some more money, Kyoto might be a better choice.
How many days is enough for Kyoto?Visitors should plan to spend at least two full days to get a decent sense of Kyoto as a city — but it’s a very historic and culturally rich city, and those who seek to fully immerse themselves in the attractions and culture of the city should plan to spend at least a week in Kyoto.
August 14, 2023
6 Unmissable State and National Parks Near Zion
If you got lucky and managed to snag a permit to hike Zion National Park’s gorgeous Angel’s Landing trail, lucky you! While the trail itself can be done in a few hours, most people schedule it as their only activity of the day, especially considering they’ll likely have to wait in lines to use the town’s shuttle to the park entrance, then wait again for the park shuttle to the trailhead.
If that kind of wait just to reach a trailhead sounds, well, not all that great, you’re right. While it’s totally worth the wait to see Zion Canyon and reach amazing hikes like Angels Landing or the Narrows, dealing with that level of crowds isn’t something you’ll want to contend with every day of your vacation.
Fortunately, there are tons of options for great state and national parks near Zion you can add to your Utah park itinerary, whether you’re trying to avoid crowds, want to see something different, or want to do something you can’t find within Zion, like paddleboarding or ATV tours.
Map of the best parks near ZionThe best national parks near ZionThe best state parks near ZionWhere to stay in southern UtahWhere to find the best state and national parks near ZionAll the state and national parks near Zion listed below are day-trippable from the Zion area, though factors like weather and snowfall can make some drives take much longer than GoogleMaps estimates. And know that drive times are also dependent on what entrances you’re using and how deep into the park you’re driving, since traffic and dirt roads within parks can slow your speeds.
The best national parks near ZionZion is one of the most popular national parks in the US park system, but with that comes crowds. However, Utah has five national parks, plus a few other federal managed sites. That means you don’t have to travel too far to visit not just another national park near Zion, but also national monuments, national forests, and more. Here’s where to go when you want to add an extra National Park Service site to your Utah park agenda.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Photo: iacomino FRiMAGES/Shutterstock
Distance from Zion: 80 milesCamping: Two campgrounds. Reservations required from April – Oct, depending on campground. First-come, first-served outside of that window.The most well-known of the national parks near Zion is Bryce Canyon National Park. It’s not nearly as busy as Zion, and can be a great place to go on busy days when it feels like Zion’s trails and parking lots are already full by 8 AM. The park’s high elevation (ranging from 6,600 to 9,100 feet above sea level) also means it has generally cooler temperatures than Zion, even in the hot summer months.
Bryce is also in southern Utah and is renowned for its otherworldly landscapes, the most notable features of which are the rock formations known as hoodoos. The spire-like structures, formed by erosion, create an at-times surreal environment, forming arches, towers, narrow passages, and giant swaths of land that look like something from a Dr. Seuss book. Depending on lighting and the time of day, the hoodoos can be orange, pink, red, or other extremely vivid tones.
Hiking is the most popular activity in the park, and good options include:
The Queens Garden and Navajo Loop Trail: (2.9 miles/625-foot gain). This is probably the most popular hike in the park and goes directly through hoodoos to the iconic Thor’s Hammer rock formation.
Fairyland Loop Trail: A harder 8-mile/1,900-foot-gain hike that passes through a variety of landscapes, with views of the Bryce Amphitheater.
Bristlecone Loop Trail: An easier (1-mile/200-foot-gain) trail in the highest point of the park. At more than 9,000 feet above sea level, this area receives a bit of snow, so don’t plan on hiking it in winter.
Bryce is also one of the best national parks near Zion for astrophotography and night sky viewing as it’s an International Dark Sky Park. It has guided full moon hikes, a June astronomy festival, ongoing evening ranger programs throughout the year, and summer telescope lessons and events.
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Photo: Sergey Malomuzh/Shutterstock
Photo: Tobin Akehurst/Shutterstock
Photo: sumikophoto/Shutterstock
Photo: Canadastock/ShutterstockDistance from Zion: 57 milesCamping: Free, first-come, first-served. Get a self-serve permit at a visitor center or trailhead. Dispersed camping is also available.Okay, Grand Staircase isn’t a national park — it’s a national monument. But it’s a great one (and also federally managed). It’s known for rugged canyons, colorful cliffs, and unique geological formations, much like Zion. It’s one of the best national parks near Zion (well, national monuments), designated in 1996 and covering 1.9 million acres of remote and largely undeveloped terrain.
The monument is divided into three main regions: the Grand Staircase, the Kaiparowits Plateau, and the Escalante Canyons. Each area showcases distinct landscapes and ecosystems, from the multicolored mesas and buttes of the Grand Staircase to the expansive, high-elevation plateaus of the Kaiparowits. The Escalante Canyons, on the other hand, feature a maze of intricate slot canyons carved over eons by the Escalante River. It’s also a hotspot for fossils and dinosaur bones, and its geology has long attracted scientists and researchers.
Escalante Canyons is the most popular region to visit, with many trails for various abilities. Some trails are accessible via paved roads, like Upper Calf Creek Falls (2.1 miles/650 foot gain) or the point-to-point Phillips Arch (10 miles, 900 foot gain). But others require a bit of backcountry driving.
The Grand Staircase area is harder to reach and the least visited, but it’s filled with amazing slot canyons. And even though the Kaiparowits Plateau didn’t make it into the official park name, it’s still pretty darn rad. It has arches, gulches, washes, and all the other features you’d expect from someplace so close to Zion. Hikes range from the easy .9-mile Bull Valley Gorge Trail to harder hikes in the 10-mile range, most of which are in the Cottonwood Canyon area.
Grand Canyon National Park
Photo: Margaret.Wiktor/Shutterstock
Distance from Zion: 109 milesCamping: Available at both north and south rim, reservations required at all campsites during the summer.The Grand Canyon is in northern Arizona, which makes it one of the best national parks near Zion and totally day-trippable at under two hours. Of course, Grand Canyon National Park gets almost as busy as Zion, but if you’re looking to maximize how many parks you visit in one trip, add it to your itinerary.
Zion is closest to the north rim of the canyon, which is the lesser-visited side of the park. The north rim is home to several fantastic sunrise and sunset viewing points, plus hikes like the North Kaibab Trail. There’s also a scenic drive along the north rim (called “Scenic Drive”) that goes past some stunning natural formations. And if you’re a very fit, very experienced, very knowledgable hiker, you can even hike from the North Rim to the South Rim — a major hike recommended for experts only.
The canyon’s north rim is only open from mid-May to the end of November, with all roads and amenities closed outside of that window. Reservations are required for camping between mid-April and mid-October.
If you decided to visit the south rim of the Grand Canyon, the much larger and more developed section of the park, it’s a longer drive and may be better for an overnight trip. It takes about five hours to get from Zion to the south rim, since you have to make a giant loop around the actual canyon.
The best state parks near ZionUtah is covered in gorgeous places that could probably be national parks in their own right, if they weren’t in the shadow of better-known destinations. Fortunately, that makes these beautiful parks less crowded than their national park siblings, even when they’re just as pretty.
Snow Canyon State Park
Photo: Ronald Broad/Shutterstock
Photo: Mark Bolen /Shutterstock
Photo: Jason Busa/Shutterstock
Photo: Cavan-Images/ShutterstockDistance from Zion: 40 milesCamping: Available; reserve in advance online.Snow Canyon State Park is a relatively lesser-known park compared to the national parks in the state, but it’s just as awe-inspiring as any of the state’s current national parks. One of the best things about Snow Canyon compared to a park like Zion is that it offers a quieter and more intimate way to see similar remarkable geological features. It covers about 7,400 acres and has iconic red rock formations, lava flow tubes, and sweeping desert panoramas.
Popular trails include the 1.2-mile Petrified Dunes Trail to suspended rock formations, the Johnson Canyon Trail to a lush waterfall canyon (closed mid-summer), the 1.5 mile interpretive Hidden Pinyon Trail (great for wildflowers), and the 2.5-mile Lava Flow Trail to ancient tubes formed by lava flow. Canyoneering and climbing are also popular activities in the park.
There are no places to buy food or anything else you may need inside the park, so stock up on supplies in nearby St. George. Summer is the slow season as it’s incredibly hot, and during that time, it’s best to stick to early morning and late evening visits. There are no ranger programs or activities in the summer, but the rest of the year, you’ll find plenty of popular programs ranging from history lectures to guided walks. Snow Canyon is open 6 AM-10 PM, and the fee to enter is $15 per vehicle (or $10 if you’re a Utah resident).
Quail Creek State Park
Photo: Traveller70/Shutterstock
Distance from Zion: 21 milesCamping: Available, reservations open four months in advance and are $28 per nightZion National Park doesn’t have too many places to get out on the water, but fortunately, Quail Creek State Park near Zion is only a few minutes away.
The park’s focal point is the 600-acre Quail Creek Reservoir, open to both fishing and swimming. But most visitors come to get out on the water with the park’s varied rentals. You can rent paddleboards and kayaks or sign up for paddleboard yoga classes with DIG Watersports, which operates every day in the summer and on weekends in spring and fall. You can reserve your equipment online in advance.
For something a bit faster, Mad Moose Rentals is the go-to in the park, offering jet ski rentals and captained (or not) powerboat rentals. Rates start at $95 an hour. It operates at the park from early spring to the end of October. And an even more unique option is booking an hour’s worth of time on the Island Swing. It’s a floating platform with rope swing, trampolines, and slides into the water, and is rentable by the hour. It’s open 11 AM-6 PM.
Quail Creek has a $20-per-vehicle entry fee and is open 7 AM-9 PM year-round.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Photo: Cory Dembeck/Shutterstock
Photo: Travel Stock /Shutterstock
Photo: Marina Poushkina/ShutterstockDistance from Zion: 40 milesCamping: Yes, reservable online at $25 per nightCoral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is a mesmerizing natural wonder spread across 3,730 acres. It’s a good one to add on to your trip since it’s equidistant between one of the best national parks near Zion — Bryce Canyon — and Zion itself.
The park most distinctive feature are the coral-pink sand dunes, with sandboarding and sand sledding being popular activities for visitors. You can rent sandboards at the visitor center for $25. Rentals are on a first-come, first-served basis, but they rarely run out. ATV and rapelling tours are also available through licensed outfitters within the park.
The park doesn’t have as many hiking trails as other area options, but the three miles of trail it does have winds through the prettiest dunes. The hiking trail is also convenient for photographers, since photographing sunrise and sunset dune photos (and the night sky) are among the most popular non-hiking activities in the park.
The best times to visit are during the cooler months of fall through spring, with spring offering pleasant weather and the possibility of wildflower blooms. Summer can be scorching, weather-wise. Park entry fees are $10 per car, and the park is open during daylight hours year-round.
Where to stay in southern UtahWhat town you should stay in depends mostly on what parks you want to visit other than Zion. But the hotels below are great picks in the vicinity of Zion, which makes them more or less in the vicinity of the parks listed above.
We hope you love the
spaces and stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication. The Dwellings: La Verkin, UT
Photo: Expedia
The Dwellings is a group of 14 or so tiny homes, all of which back to a huge canyon. Units have outdoor space with great views, and all have kitchenettes, roomy living spaces, and are dog-friendly. There’s a communal fire pit, the Wi-Fi is fast, and you can rent e-bikes on-site in case you’d rather not deal with finding parking. Rooms start around $160 per night.
The Advenire: St. George, UT
Photo: Expedia
Decked out with some of the coolest, most modern lobby art you can image — and equally creative cocktails at the on-site bar — the Advenire is arguably the hippest hotel in St. George. It’s close to Snow Canyon State Park, has a great on-site restaurant, and is walkable to lots of restaurants and coffee shops in St. George’s historic area. Rooms start around $199 per night. This hotel is worth checking out for summer visits, since it has a nice outdoor living deck with an inviting outdoor pool.
Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel
Photo: Expedia
Clean, simple, and close to Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Grand Staircase, Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel is a great place to stay for people who plan to spend most of their time outdoors. While the property is your standard chain hotel, it does offer some useful amenities, like included daily breakfast and a big outdoor pool and hot tub. Rooms start around $120 per night.
More like thisEpic StaysThe Best Places To Stay in and Around Zion National ParkHow To Make Your Vacation More Pacific in Richmond, BC
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An island city at the mouth of the Fraser River, Richmond, British Columbia, is defined by the meeting of land and sea. You won’t find a coastal enclave anywhere in Canada that’s more intriguingly diverse, more genuinely welcoming, more…well, Pacific. To experience the area’s maritime heritage for yourself, make sure to visit the community within a community: the historic fishing village of Steveston.
Covering the southwest tip of Richmond, Steveston is just a 20-minute drive from the Vancouver International Airport but feels worlds away. Well-preserved buildings dating to the late 1800s line the streets, and wooden boardwalks extend along the Fraser River. The people walking those boardwalks might well be working fishermen who make Steveson the largest small-craft harbour in Canada…or they could be film scouts looking to set up the perfect shot to capture Steveston’s coastal village vibes.
All are here, and all are welcome — including travelers, so get ready to explore fascinating maritime history, savour fresh seafood and picture-perfect waterfront views, and have yourself a more Pacific vacation in Richmond’s Steveston Village.
Ground your visit in the historical sites
Photo: Tourism Richmond
Its strategic location at the mouth of the Fraser River makes Steveston Village a prime destination for fishing. An abundance of salmon and herring led to a fast-booming commercial fishing industry and enticed large populations of Indigenous, Chinese, Japanese, and European labourers.
“Soon, other industries that supported the fishing and canning industries grew, including farming. And all of these industries employed workers from around the world, very much the way the city of Richmond’s economy flourishes today,” says Mimi Horita, Destination Development Coordinator with the City of Richmond. “Visiting the Steveston heritage sites can give an insight into the challenges and achievements of these early immigrants to reflect on our multicultural community today.”
Wander the waterfront, where a row of 15 canneries that made up Cannery Row once stood, and tour Steveston’s two National Historic Sites to uncover the factors that shaped its identity.
Visiting the Steveston heritage sites can give an insight into the challenges and achievements of these early immigrants…Dubbed the Monster Cannery when it was first built in 1894, the Gulf of Georgia Cannery was recognized as BC’s largest until 1902. It was converted into a museum in 1994, and its series of interactive exhibits, short films, demos of working machines, and tours of the salmon canning line illustrate the demanding conditions endured by plant workers while highlighting the processes of fish preservation: gutting, butchering, cooking, and soldering tin cans.
Now a small cluster of wooden heritage buildings linked by a boardwalk, the Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site on the Fraser River was once a complex of 90+ structures that served as canneries, shipyards, and residences. Some date back to 1885 and illustrate the working and living conditions of the ethnically diverse labourers who contributed to Steveston’s fishing industry. Visit the Britannia Shipyard building, the national historic site’s flagship building, delve into the hardships faced by Steveston’s Chinese workers at the two-storey Chinese Bunkhouse, and visit the Murakami House — a restored home occupied by the Japanese Canadian Murakami family between 1929 and 1942, before they were sent to internment camps.
Continue your journey through the vibrant past of this seaside village with a visit to the Steveston Museum and Post Office. Built in 1905 in the center of Steveston Village, it operated as a branch of the Royal Bank of Canada and was Steveston’s first bank. Today, you can browse the pop-up exhibits and museum displays in the Northern Bank building, which also houses a working Canada Post Office. Visit the adjacent Japanese Fishermen’s Benevolent Society building to learn about the evolution of Steveston’s Japanese Canadian community, and find tranquility in the green space at Steveston Town Square Park.
“The unique aspect about these attractions is that they’re in the original buildings where fishing, canning, boat building, and the businesses that supported the [fishing] industry took place. So they don’t look like typical museums from the outside — they look like canneries, boat workshops, cannery homes, banks, and so on,” Horita says.
Slow down to appreciate the surrounding natural wonders
Photo: Tourism Richmond
Steveston Village’s location on the Fraser River affords plenty of opportunities to get up close to marine life and take advantage of Richmond’s natural landscapes. Plus, there are over 50 miles of nature trails and bike paths that crisscross the city, with many easily accessible from Steveston.
Spend a day on the water with Vancouver Whale Watch or Steveston Seabreeze Adventures on a three- to five-hour tour for encounters with the marine mammals. Spot orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, seals, and porpoises while gaining insight into their behaviour. Learn about the region’s waterways and conservation efforts practiced by local businesses and organizations to protect the wildlife off the BC coast.
Join picnickers and kite flyers at Garry Point Park, a 75-acre waterfront green space with panoramic views of the South Arm of the Fraser River, the Gulf Islands, and beyond. Catch the sunset on the sandy shores of the park’s driftwood-dotted beach, meander along one of the paths that lead to Scotch Pond or the waterfront, and visit the Kuno Japanese Garden, which commemorates Gihei Kuno, the first Japanese immigrant to arrive in Steveston in 1888.
Bike, jog, or take a leisurely walk on the 3.7-mile West Dyke Trail, linking Garry Point Park in Richmond’s south and Terra Nova Park in the north. If biking sounds appealing, Village Bikes is well-equipped with a fleet of hybrid and e-bike rentals. Along the trail, take breaks on the sandy beaches, admire the ocean views, and keep your eyes peeled for a variety of bird species.
Partake in Steveston’s abundant seafood
Photo: Pajo’s
Home to over 500 commercial fishing vessels, Steveston Harbour remains an active fishing port and Canada’s largest commercial fishing harbour. Head to Fisherman’s Wharf to purchase freshly caught salmon, halibut, prawns, and cod directly from the boats. Or indulge in dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, where fresh seafood is prominently featured on menus.
Serving Ocean Wise fish and chips including rock snapper, wild sockeye, cod, and halibut, plus bottomless fries, Pajo’s has become synonymous with summers in Richmond. This longtime favourite now operates three outlets throughout Metro Vancouver, including the floating flagship location at Fisherman’s Wharf.
A top pick for birthdays and anniversaries, the longstanding Steveston Seafood House is a community institution. Offering sustainable seafood choices, this spot is favoured for its fresh-shucked oysters, seared scallops, and wild salmon.
Meanwhile, Ichiro has been reliably dishing out Japanese favourites like chicken teriyaki rice bowls and tempura udon for more than 15 years. But its main attraction is the sashimi. Whether in nigiri sushi, atop a bed of rice in a sushi rice bowl, or as part of a sashimi platter, don’t miss sampling seafood at its freshest…because isn’t that what the Pacific experience is all about?
The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco Is the Ultimate Luxury Hotel for a Dog-Friendly Vacation
My dog Poppy was begging me for a pampered, luxe vacay, so I took her to The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco in the heart of the Nob Hill neighborhood to experience the storied hotel’s “Love Your Pup” package. From the moment we checked in to our room on the club level, we were impressed.
Poppy is a Chiweenie, and even though she’s small, she loves to explore and has bountiful energy. So, when considering a dog-friendly holiday, I also wanted a city that had dog-focused amenities. San Francisco is a great choice for its walkability, myriad ocean front parks and hikes, and dog friendly bars, restaurant patios, and boutiques.
Ritz-Carlton San Francisco’s Love Your Pup PackageThe Love your Pup package and includes plethora of amenities and a portion of proceeds are donated to Muttville Senior Dog Rescue, a local non-profit senior dog rescue that also offers hospice care to ailing homeless doggos. Upon checking in, we were greeted with a welcome gift bag filled with treats and toys, including a fun doggie Champagne bottle toy, a plush dog bed, dog bowls, and best of all a gourmet “cake” by another San Francisco dog brand, MISHKA.
The company, which has two stores within a few miles of the Ritz-Carlton, has a clothing line and makes all sorts of tasty organic treats and meals including lamb candies, heart and pineapple shaped meat cakes, and homemade meat balls. The main boutique also has a room for dog birthday parties, which can be a fun way to celebrate with a group of friends and their pups.
Photo: Ritz-Carlton San Francisco
The Love Your Pup package features a gourmet pet menu (for an extra fee) created by the hotel’s executive chef Patrick O’Sullivan. The menu features everything from raw chopped beef tenderloin with boiled sliced baby carrots to sauteed lamb loin with steamed white rice. A pet-cleaning fee and the option to arrange a special rate for an in-studio professional pet photo session from Sarah Zemunski Photography is also included.
Poppy was in heaven. She couldn’t get enough of the MISHKA lamb candies and kept begging for more meat balls. And although she’s usually not really a dog bed kind of pup, she enjoyed rolling around on the plush bed.
As great for people as it is for dogs
Photo: Ritz-Carlton San Francisco
The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco offers more than just dog friendly amenities, it is also a great hotel for humans. The five-star property has an ideal location in posh Nob Hill, just half a block from a cable car station that will take you to the famed Fisherman’s Wharf area. It is also just two blocks from the designer shopping and theaters of Union Square and minutes from Chinatown.
Unlike so many city hotels, this Ritz-Carlton is an elegant, low-profile hotel. It occupies a landmark neoclassical building from the early 1900s that was originally designed to be the Pacific Coast headquarters of the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. It first opened as the Ritz in 1991 and today retains its stately marble and 17-column exterior.
Photo: Ritz-Carlton San Francisco
Inside, the hotel tells a much more modern story. The rooms and suites are done up in white, gray, and blue hues with fabulous textured accents like velvet-esque headboards and blue patterned rugs. The décor is at once classy and contemporary.
The public spaces are filled with oversized vases of fresh flowers, gleaming marble floors, and crystal chandeliers. There is a red-brick courtyard with decorative fountains and chiseled hedges, that is the perfect spot to relax with a cocktail, a book, and of course your pup.
Photo: Ritz-Carlton San Francisco
I stayed on the club level, which offers access to complimentary premium drinks and snacks throughout the day in the lounge. I had a late evening flight out of San Francisco, so it was super handy to be able to relax here after checking out.
Other hotel amenities including a clothing boutique and a perfume shop. If you need a new scent, the famed German perfume house of Krigler has an outpost here and custom scents can be created.
Dine and drink with your pup
Photo: Ritz-Carlton San Francisco
While there are many things that make this hotel the perfect stay for you and your dog, the on-site restaurant is a particular highlight. Chef Michael Rotondo once cooked for Michelin-starred Chicago restaurant Charlie Trotter’s. At the Ritz, his menu is California Coastal, and the rich flavors are very good.
Lunch and dinner are served in The Lounge, on the lobby level adjacent to the Lobby Bar. Well-behaved dogs are allowed in, and Poppy was offered a spot under my table. The ambiance is buzzy, and I loved the casual elegant vibe, red leather banquettes, and city views. Don’t skip a cocktail from the bar that’s inspired by San Francisco’s neighborhoods—the Emerald Fog is delicious.
Photo: Ritz-Carlton San Francisco
Breakfast is served daily in the Parallel 37 restaurant, and you shouldn’t miss the eggs Benedict with Dungeness crab.
If you want to taste limited-edition wines, head to the JCB Tasting Lounge, which is curated by French vintner Jean-Charles Boisset. The ambiance is over-the-top and literally dripping in leopard print, gold trip, crimson and eggplant hued velvet, and crystal.
Many bars and restaurants around San Francisco also welcome pups on patios. The famed Toronado beer bar in the Lower Haight is one option. There are more than 40 beers on tap, a good jukebox and indoor and outdoor seating. Dogs are welcome in both.
You’ll need to leave your pup back at the hotel to dine at ROOH, but they should be tired after a day exploring town anyway. The restaurant is well worth a visit though. Michelin-guide recommended, it cooks up progressive Indian fare with bold flavors that blend perfectly and are beautifully presented.
Begin with the Chili Cheese Kulcha with shishito pepper and shredded Manchego cheese. The edamame kebab and dahi puri were also excellent starters. I loved the Black Sheep Keema Masala main, which was made with plant-based lamb. If you do eat meat, the lamb pepper fry and butter chicken are two popular mains.
Exploring San Francisco with your dogSan Francisco is a very dog friendly city, and you’ll see pups everywhere. From pup friendly beaches to restaurant patios and dog boutiques like MISHKA, there is much to sniff out here. Poppy and I enjoyed just walking. The Ritz-Carlton’s location makes it very strollable and if you don’t mind climbing up and down hills, you can spend days exploring on foot.
There are other nearby locations that are easily accessible for a change of scenery:
Fort Funston: You’ll need to hop in an Uber or drive to reach Fort Funston, but this is one of the best areas for dogs that enjoy a mix of beach and hiking trails. Dogs are allowed off leash here (if under voice control) and you can either chill on one of the 200-foot-high sandy bluffs and watch the hang gliders soar on sunny days or hoof it down to the beach on one of the hiking trails.
Ocean Beach: Another top destination for local doggos, the 3.5-mile-long beach isn’t the prettiest when it comes to views, but it does have amazing sunsets. And since dogs don’t really dig views anyway, this is where to bring your pup that wants to frolic in the surf or just pick up speed and run with other dogs in the sand.
Lands End: If your dog needs to up their TikTok or Instagram game, take them to Lands End, where the trail winds around craggy cliffs facing the ocean and you can get some stellar photographs or videos. This is one of the most compelling urban hikes in the city, and although the trail can be very steep at times, it is worth the effort for the views.
If you’re looking for a luxury hotel for a dog-friendly vacation, I can’t recommend the Ritz-Carlton San Francisco enough. Dogs are treated like royalty and so are humans. And San Francisco itself is a great place to vacation with dogs. There is much for your pooch to sniff out, and this is especially true if you doggo enjoys ocean swims or long runs on the beach.
Why Saudi Arabia’s City of the Future Is Designed in One Straight Line
At first, the idea of building an entire city in the shape of a straight line might sound puzzling. After all, wouldn’t it take that much longer to get from one end to the other? Would the traffic going from end to end be terrible? It turns out that the straight line model is actually based on efficiency of transportation, and when done right, it can be an incredible advantage to other layouts. THat’s the goal with “The Line,” Saudi Arabia’s trillion-dollar futuristic city that’s an ambitious feat of engineering. The planned 105-mile long city in NEOM, in the northwest section of the country, is slated to cut across the desert in a straight line, hold nine million people, and serve as an almost utopian example of what cities could look like.
The Line is designed specifically with high-speed train travel in mind. This high-speed train, which will have only four stops, will traverse the entire city in just 20 minutes. The straight line structure is key to achieving this speed goal, since the whole city can be served by one massive train line. For a high speed rail to work best, the track needs to be as straight as possible. The lack of stations also means the train can go faster, since it won’t have to slow down or stop as much.
In today’s cities around the world people often need to change trains multiple times to get to their locations, partly due to the presence of road systems with cars as well as the need to branch off in different directions. The Line, by contrast, will not have cars at all, meaning no traffic. Instead, the Line will be a “5-minute city,” or a city where you can get all the essentials with a five minute walk. Anything you can’t access with a five minute walk will be accessible via the high speed rail line. And since the rail line will be underground, it won’t disrupt daily life or be an aesthetic eyesore.
Another reason for the linear design is to put citizens closer to nature. The narrowness of the city means no matter where you live, you’re never too far from the city limits, and the ability to access the desert. The buildings in the Line are planned to be around 650-feet wide and facing inward, with the outer walls lined with mirrored windows, so people inside can always look out onto open natural spaces.
According to Forbes, NEOM is also looking skyward when it comes to transportation efficiency and innovation. e-VTOL transport, like the Volocopter, is being considered, to even further cut down travel time between two points.
Trains revolutionized the way that cities were built, designed, and located. While much has changed in the centuries since industrialization, The Line shows that rails are still influencing the way people think about the places their lives are organized around. Only in this case, rails are being used to shape a much different, highly accessible future city.
My Favorite Under-$20 Hack for Making Every Flight More Comfortable
As a freelance travel writer, I spend a lot of time on planes. In fact, I’m on a plane — in the middle seat, no less — as I’m writing this. And considering the number of flights I take per year (usually hovering somewhere between 35 and 55), you’d think I’d have some type of status to land me in comfortable, cushy seats.
But, if you couldn’t tell from the whole “in the middle seat” comment, I do not. If I’m lucky, my basic airline status may get me an exit row. So that means I spend a lot of time trying to find ways to get comfortable on planes, finding the balance for carry-on items between being useful and being heavy or bulky. And my favorite carry-on item, hands down, is the best of both worlds: it’s incredibly useful and doesn’t take up much space in my bag. In fact, it doesn’t take up any space.
I’m talking, naturally, about the dorkiest and most glorious impulse buy I’ve ever bought on Amazon: an airplane foot hammock. Mine cost less than $18, and at this point, I won’t get on a flight without it. (Seriously. I”ll buy a new one in an airport gift shop before I board without it.) There’s basically zero risk in giving one a try, considering the low price, ease of carrying it, and benefit of not having your butt and legs go to sleep after 20 minutes of flying.
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It eliminates back, hip, and butt pain
Photo: Suzie Dundas
Sitting in an airplane is beyond uncomfortable, for everyone. With no options for other ways to sit, it takes only about 30 minutes before my butt starts to go numb, sending pain down my legs and into my feet. I’ve gotten so uncomfortable on planes that I’ve squatted in the floor space at my seat because I couldn’t take the pain of sitting anymore. But the airplane foot hammock changes all that.
The adjustable strap makes it as low or high as you’d want so you can rest one or both feet on it to take the pressure off your butt (or legs, or back, or wherever you usually feel it). You can also sit sideways, with your feet on top of one another on it. Being able to change position throughout a flight has eliminated almost all the pain I used to feel while flying. It also improves circulation and creates more of a bend in my knees (if I want), helping to reduce knee and leg stiffness.
It folds up super small
The particular airplane foot hammock I have is pretty small, and most are of a similar size. Photo: Suzie Dundas
One of my ongoing decisions with packing my carry-on bag is what travel items are worth the space, which is why I often forgo bulky items like airplane pillows. Fortunately, all the airplane foot hammocks I’ve used roll up into a very small and lightweight sack, usually about eight inches long and weighing next to nothing. That means you can clip it to a carry-on backpack strap or roller bag handle, rather than smashing yet another thing in your bag.
“Set up” takes maybe six seconds
The hammock strap loops around the tray table with a buckle closure. That’s it. Photo: Suzie Dundas
I put set up in quotations because it probably doesn’t even count as a setup. Unroll the footrest, unhook your tray table, loop the strap across the back of the tray table, and clip it. Then put your tray table back up if you’re doing this before take-off. I have never, in the probably close to 100 times I’ve used it, had the person in front of me notice it was there. It’s probably because the strap sits so close to the chair (on the arms of the tray table) that it doesn’t generate any backward pull on the seat in front of you.
It opens a wide world of sleeping positionsIf you haven’t flown recently, you may not have noticed that most airplane seats nowadays are shaped like this, with a headrest on top, as if the person who designed it only had a loose handle on what the human body looked like:
Yes, I am a fabulous artist. Photo: Suzie Dundas
So unless you are shaped like this, with a concave back and a neck that somehow extends forward about four inches, it’s very uncomfortable:
That is not how a human neck is shaped. Photo: Suzie Dundas
That’s why I slouch on planes — big time. I like to scoot down enough that my head is under the entire headrest (so my neck can actually be straight) and slide my knees up against the seat in front of me. This is only possible because of the airplane footrest. Without it, to assume that position, I’d have to rest my feet on the seat back pocket or tray table, which is, objectively, gross.
For me, that’s a comfortable sleeping position. For others, it may be totally different. But without an adjustable airplane foot rest, the only place to rest your feet is the floor or on top of your carry-on, neither of which are ideal. Even tall people, who may be able to easily rest their feet on the floor, can appreciate the benefit of being able to switch up their sitting or sleeping positions.
The best airplane foot hammocksIf you’re thinking of buying an airplane foot hammock, any of the options below are great picks. They’re all more or less the same, and it’s not really the type of item where spending more gets you a better experience.
Supregear Airplane Footrest: $9[image error] [image error]
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It’s small, it’s lightweight, it’s packable, and it works. I’d venture that you won’t find a more useful airplane travel accessory for under $10 on Amazon. And hey, it even comes in green and blue, in case you think fashion matters when it comes to an airplane foot hammock.
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It looks like the price went up about $2 since I bought it several years ago. Better hurry and buy it before the price slides up to a still-very-reasonable $17. This airplane foot hammock is as simple as it gets: small, useful and weighs next to nothing. I’ve been using it for a while and it’s holding up well, with no fraying, rips, or stitching falling out.
GobiSea Airplane Footrest: $17[image error][image error][image error]
This footrest is very similar to the Amazon Basics option above, but it has one major distinction: there’s a flat base to rest your feet on, which prevents them from being pushed together. I’ve never found that to be an issue, but if you’re worried about it, opt for the GobiSea Footrest. The only downside is that it doesn’t roll up quite as small. Instead, it packs into a small, flat travel bag.
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If your upcoming flight is with someone you care about, do them a solid and pick them up a foot hammock, too (and get yourself to the $25 minimum for free Amazon Prime shipping).
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