Matador Network's Blog, page 26

A Coffee Lover’s Guide to Helsinki (With a Sustainable Twist)

Like many caffeine-loving (and jetlagged) travelers, one of my first missions when touching down in a new city is to scope out a local place to get a solid cup of coffee. And in northern Europe, the options are plenty. This is especially true in Helsinki, Finland, where coffee culture runs deep. I arrived eager to learn more about the city’s caffeinated beverages, as well as its prominent sustainability scene. After doing a bit of research, I hopped the tram to the city’s Etu-Töölö neighborhood to scope out Cafetoria, a Latin-Nordic Coffee Roastery (owing to the owner’s Peruvian background) in the city center known for its environmentally friendly coffee.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Cafetoria roastery (@cafetoriaroastery)

Walking in, I was immediately taken by Cafetoria’s warm ambiance, along with the powerful smell of freshly brewed coffee. After ordering, I chatted with Juan Miguel Rodríguez, Cafetoria’s barista and social media assistant, who gave me some foundational context on both sustainability and coffee in general. “In the country that drinks more coffee per capita than anywhere else in the world, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a necessity,” Rodríguez said, stating that inevitably, the two must go hand in hand.

According to the Finnish Coffee & Roastery Association, the first coffee shipment to Sweden and Finland arrived as early as 1765, and was initially designated for consumption by high-ranking citizens. By the mid-18th century, tax lists showed that coffee had spread beyond just royalty to more affluent homes, with 116 households owning and consuming coffee. The association says that for “ordinary people, coffee was a luxury item for a long time, but in the 20th century it began to be brewed on weekdays as well, even a couple of times a day,” with the industrial production of coffee for retailers officially beginning in 1904.

A vintage coffee shop in Helsinki, Finland. Photo: Besides the Obvious/Shutterstock

Although World Wars I and II disrupted the country’s burgeoning roasting scene, the rise of airtight vacuum cans and aluminum laminate packaging allowed small roasters to centralize operations. Coffee quickly became a cultural staple, and in just five decades, its consumption quadrupled. Today, Rodríguez described Finland’s deep coffee culture as “increasingly defined by ethical choices, from bean to brew,” noting that Finnish consumers and roasters alike are turning toward fair trade and organic beans to ensure that their beloved daily ritual supports environmental health, as well as social justice efforts in coffee-producing regions.

“Local, eco-conscious micro-roasters are gaining traction, not only for their quality, but for their commitment to reducing transport emissions,” he says. The Finnish Coffee & Roastery Association describes Finland’s coffee industry as a “pioneer in building and developing responsible operations and supply chains,” which is done through responsible and sustainable farming, securing the livelihood of farmers, and reducing overall waste during the manufacturing process. “These efforts are further supported by national policies that reward businesses for lowering their carbon footprint,” he says. And the proof is in the numbers.

In a recent study conducted by the association, 62 percent of adults aged 18 to 30 care about the origin of coffee, and 61 percent consider its sustainability important. While issues surrounding coffee’s environmental impact top the concerns at 53 percent, respondents were also worried about human rights (47 percent) and waste (44 percent). Additionally, the survey found that young adults find it equally important that coffee is certified sustainable, and that the carbon footprint from its sale and production is somehow offset.

Tiima in Finland. Photo: Vicki Denig

As a wine and spirits journalist by trade, the conversation made me begin to wonder if that passion for sustainability translated to the world of cocktails. Enter Tero Räisänen, bartender at Tampere-based cocktail bar Tiima, about two hours north of Helsinki.

Räisänen explained that coffee is one of the easiest sustainable ingredients to use in cocktail creations, particularly for repurposing the grounds into syrups, flavoring agents, and more. This also has economic benefits. “It’s basically a free product at that point,” he says. “If I used the grounds once and can use them again, they’ve already been paid for.” Mika Ammunét, founder and bar manager at Helsinki-based Bar Mate, agrees. “One could turn leftover coffee grounds into a syrup or even a liqueur,” he says. It’s truly turning waste into taste.

When it comes to coffee-based cocktails, the local creativity goes far beyond the standard espresso martini. Ammunét regularly whips up iced coffee cocktails made with oat milk (or regular milk), hazelnut syrup, and a shot of espresso cold brew. He’s also a fan of a simple cold brew espresso tonic made with bourbon, cold brew, a dash or two of orange bitters, and topped with tonic water. “The bourbon gave a nice body to the drink and orange worked well as a secondary flavor,” he says.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Bar Mate – Highballs & small plates (@barmate.helsinki)

In terms of which spirits tend to go best with coffee, Ammunét cites bourbon and rum, thanks to their signature notes of vanilla and sweet spices. Plus, “they have enough body to handle the strong-flavored coffee,” he says. Räisänen adds that the sweet notes of cognac also play well off of the bitterness in coffee, and cites espresso or cold brew as the easiest forms of coffee to use in cocktail creations. “Standard brewed coffee is the worst, as it can make the cocktail watery,” he suggests, emphasizing that cold brew boasts the benefits of both standard coffee and espresso, in that one can use a lot of it without sacrificing flavor intensity.

When seeking out great coffee, Rodríguez cites brightness and sweetness as key traits to look for. “Good coffee is like a well-told story,” he says. “It has a compelling beginning, a rich and emotional middle, and a memorable finish.” He thinks a great coffee should ultimately leave you wanting more. And for Finns, that seems to be the case.

“Finnish coffee drinkers are well-informed, often considering the environmental impact of each cup they consume,” says Rodríguez, though he thinks what truly sets the country’s coffee scene apart is how deeply sustainability is woven into everyday life and education. “In Finland, coffee is more than a drink. Every sip reflects a broader national commitment to a cleaner, more responsible future.”

Where to try Finland’s best sustainable coffeeCoffee shops

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Coffee Roastery Helsinki (@kaffaroastery)

Cafetoria: A Finnish-Latin micro-roastery founded by Peruvian Ivan Ore and his wife Mia Nikander-Ore in 2002. Highlights artisanal coffee, coffee-based drinks, pastries, and house-made gelato Runeberginkatu 31, 00100 Helsinki, FinlandKaffa Roastery: Award-winning coffees focused on ecological and social sustainability, known for its full commitment to transparency (even down to revealing what they pay to farmers). Pursimiehenkatu 29, 00150 Helsinki, FinlandLykke Kahvitilat: Artisanal Finnish coffee company focused on ethical production, from farming to packaging and beyond, known for its signature tagline you’ll find on many a baseball cap: “We cultivate happiness and coffee.” Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 21a, 00100 Helsinki, Finland

Restaurants

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ravintola Gösta (@ravintolagosta)

Natura: A modern and sustainable high-end restaurant with three, seven, and 13-course menus, as well as à la carte options. The menu leans heavily on organically farmed and locally sourced Finnish and Scandinavian products, with strong emphasis on local Finnish spirits Iso Roobertinkatu 11, 00120 Helsinki, FinlandRestaurant Gösta: This can’t-miss spot is in Serlachius Manor, a hub for sustainability with an on-site museum, sauna, and lakeside activities, Restaurant Gösta highlights local ingredients and sustainable practices, including using recyclable packaging and taking extreme steps to limit waste. Joenniementie 47, 35800 Mänttä, Finland

Bars

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chihuahua Julep (@chihuahuajulep)

Bar Mate: A craft cocktail bar known for highballs and thoughtful libations, spearheaded by Mika Ammunét, also known to host coffee cocktail workshops (part of Helsinki Coffee Week). Pieni Roobertinkatu 9, 00130 Helsinki, Finland Tiima: Award-winning cocktail bar in Tampere focused on local ingredients with a broad selection of spirits. It’a also home to the Make’s Nightcap cocktail, made with espresso, maple syrup, coffee liqueur, and Pusser’s Gunpowder Proof Rum. Satakunnankatu 10, 33100 Tampere, FinlandChihuahua Julep: A Helsinki bar known for its agave-based cocktails and cell phone-free policy, and home to the La Catrina Flip cocktail (mezcal, stout, coffee tequila, Frangelico, egg yolk, and cacao). Erottajankatu 9, 00130 Helsinki, Finland More like thisTravelThese 3 Cities Are Some of the Best Places to Experience Finland's Famous Sauna Culture

12 of the Coolest Ocean Pools Around the World. A Visual Guide

Ocean pools — whether carved naturally into coastal rock or designed to blend seamlessly into the sea — are the perfect balance of raw beauty and calm leisure. Fed by saltwater and refreshed by tides, they offer more than just a place to swim: the mineral-rich water can soothe your skin, reduce inflammation, and boost circulation, while the natural movement of the sea adds gentle resistance for a more invigorating experience. Many of these pools also echo the golden age of seaside resorts, when places like Sydney and Saint-Malo built coastal baths as part of a broader wellness culture that saw the sea as both cure and escape. From cliffside lagoons to historic tidal basins, these are some of the most stunning ocean pools around the world — and yes, you can actually swim in them.

Piscina das Marés – Leça da Palmeira, PortugalPhoto: Federico Fioravanti/ShutterstockPhoto: T.Ilsanker/ShutterstockPhoto: T.Ilsanker/Shutterstock

Designed by renowned Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira in the 1960s, Piscina das Marés is a minimalist masterpiece carved into the rugged Atlantic coast north of Porto. The two saltwater pools are set among volcanic rocks and appear to merge seamlessly with the ocean beyond. Their angular concrete walkways and geometric shapes contrast beautifully with the organic forms of the natural rock. Open seasonally during the summer, the pool charges a modest entrance fee and includes basic amenities like lifeguards and a café.

Where to stay: The best Airbnbs and hotels in Porto

Queen’s Bath – Kauai, Hawaii, USAPhoto: MPeebler/ShutterstockPhoto: Steve Heap/ShutterstockPhoto: Alexa Sutton/Shutterstock

Queen’s Bath in Princeville on Kauai’s north shore is a lava rock pool formed by ancient volcanic activity and fed by waves from the Pacific Ocean. During the calm summer months, it becomes a serene swimming hole filled with small fish and clear, warm water. However, in winter or during heavy surf, it transforms into a dangerous zone where rogue waves can sweep over the rocks unexpectedly. Due to its seasonal nature, access is often closed during high surf warnings. Visitors must hike a muddy, sometimes slippery trail of about 0.8 miles to reach it. Despite the risks, when conditions are safe, Queen’s Bath offers one of the most beautiful and natural ocean-pool experiences in Hawaii.

Where to stay: The best Airbnbs and hotels in Kauai

Bondi Icebergs Pool – Sydney, AustraliaPhoto: FiledIMAGE/ShutterstockPhoto: GagliardiPhotography/ShutterstockPhoto: Two Sighted/Shutterstock

Possibly the most iconic ocean pool on the planet, Bondi Icebergs Pool sits right on the edge of Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach. The 165-foot lap pool and adjoining kiddie pool are both filled with seawater, replenished by waves during high tide. This pool is part of the Bondi Icebergs Club, which has operated since 1929 and still honors its original tradition: members must swim during the winter months to retain their status. Easily accessible via public transportation, the pool is open year-round to the public for a small fee, with changing rooms, a sauna, and a café.

Where to stay: The best Airbnbs and hotels in Sydney

Tidal Pool at Camps Bay – Cape Town, South AfricaPhoto: living-southafrica/ShutterstockPhoto: Kevin Farr Foto/ShutterstockPhoto: Dmitrii Sakharov/Shutterstock

This manmade tidal pool offers a peaceful swimming spot with sweeping views of Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles mountain range. Designed to protect swimmers from the powerful Atlantic waves, the pool is bordered by large rocks that shield it from the wind while allowing seawater to flow in naturally. It’s especially popular with families and sunrise swimmers. Located within walking distance of central Camps Bay and its beachfront promenade, the pool is open to the public year-round and free of charge.

Where to stay: The best Airbnbs and hotels in Cape Town

Giola Lagoon – Thassos Island, GreecePhoto: salajean/ShutterstockPhoto: 2stockista/ShutterstockPhoto: Nataliya Nazarova/Shutterstock

On the southern coast of Thassos, Giola Lagoon is a natural pool carved into seaside rock by centuries of geological activity. Shaped like a giant teardrop and measuring about 65 feet across, the lagoon is filled with seawater that splashes in from the Aegean. Its water tends to be warmer than the open sea, and the rocky terraces around the edge invite both cliff-jumping thrill-seekers and sunbathers. According to local legend, the pool was created by Zeus as a bathing place for his muses or lovers — hence its nickname, “Zeus’s eye.”

Getting there involves driving along a narrow dirt road followed by a short but rugged hike, so good shoes and a bit of patience are required. There’s no formal infrastructure, and it can get pretty crowded during the high season.

Piscine Naturelle de Oro – Isle of Pines, New CaledoniaPhoto: Daniela Constantinescu/ShutterstockPhoto: Fongistyle/ShutterstockPhoto: Delpixel/Shutterstock

Piscine Naturelle de Oro is a breathtaking natural lagoon hidden among the towering conifers of New Caledonia’s Isle of Pines. Enclosed by coral formations and separated from the open ocean by a natural reef, the water is crystal-clear and rich with tropical fish — ideal for snorkeling as well as swimming. The pool sits at the mouth of a small stream and is most easily accessed on foot from the nearby Le Méridien Resort or via a short kayak ride from surrounding beaches. There’s a small fee to enter the protected area, which helps preserve the lagoon’s fragile ecosystem. Its calm, aquarium-like waters make it one of the South Pacific’s most unforgettable swimming spots.

The Blue Pool – Bermagui, New South Wales, AustraliaPhoto: Duncan Henderson/ShutterstockPhoto: FiledIMAGE/ShutterstockPhoto: Mathias Berlin/Shutterstock

Carved into the cliffs along the Sapphire Coast, the Blue Pool in Bermagui is a tidal ocean pool that offers serene swimming with dramatic views of the Tasman Sea. The pool’s depth and vivid opaline color make it ideal for both casual swimmers and snorkelers. It’s flanked by rocky headlands and sits below a steep staircase, so while access is straightforward, it does require a bit of a walk down. There’s also a smaller wading pool for children. Open year-round and free to enter, the Blue Pool is a beloved spot for both sunrise swims and wildlife watching.

Where to stay: The best Airbnbs and hotels in and around Sydney

Charco Azul – La Palma, Canary Islands, SpainPhoto: Christophe Cappelli/ShutterstockPhoto: Balate.Dorin/ShutterstockPhoto: gopixa/Shutterstock

On the volcanic island of La Palma in the Canary Islands lies Charco Azul, a series of beautifully maintained natural seawater pools sculpted from black basalt rock. These pools were formed by lava flows and enhanced with modern infrastructure like ladders, sunbathing platforms, showers, and lifeguards, making them both safe and family-friendly. The contrast between the clear blue water and the dark volcanic rock creates a dramatic — and highly photogenic — setting. Located in the town of San Andrés y Sauces, Charco Azul is easy to access by car, and parking is available nearby. The pools are free to use, though they may close temporarily during heavy surf for safety reasons.

Where to stay: The best Airbnbs and hotels in Palma

Wylie’s Baths – Coogee Beach, AustraliaPhoto: James Cannam/ShutterstockPhoto: Phoutthavong SOUVANNACHAK/ShutterstockPhoto: aiyoshi597/Shutterstock

Just south of Coogee Beach in eastern Sydney, Wylie’s Baths is one of Australia’s oldest ocean pools. Established in 1907, the pool is perched on a rocky platform with sweeping views of the Pacific and Wedding Cake Island. It offers a tranquil swimming experience framed by wooden boardwalks and a nostalgic coastal vibe. The 165-foot pool fills naturally with seawater and is patrolled by lifeguards during opening hours. Unlike the nearby free Coogee Rock Pool, Wylie’s charges a small entrance fee but offers changing facilities, massages, and even yoga classes on the deck. It also holds historical significance: it was one of the first pools in Australia to admit both men and women, and it remains a classic example of early 20th-century recreational architecture in Sydney.

Where to stay: The best Airbnbs and hotels in Sydney

Tidal Baths at Saint-Malo – Brittany, FrancePhoto: Unai Huizi Photography/ShutterstockPhoto: Ekaterina Pokrovsky/ShutterstockPhoto: Eo naya/Shutterstock

The Saint-Malo tidal pool at Plage de Bon Secours is a calm body of water fed during high tide. The large swimming basin is enclosed by stone walls, with a vintage diving board rising from its center. Built in the 1930s, it sits right on the city’s most popular beach. Swimming here is free and open to all, but the pool is far from the only local attraction. Saint-Malo’s tides are some of the highest in Europe, and nearby islands and historic forts are reachable on foot during low tide.

Where to stay: The best Airbnbs near Brittany

Grotta della Poesia – Roca Vecchia, ItalyPhoto: Eleonora Spina/ShutterstockPhoto: TLKE/ShutterstockPhoto: salarko/Shutterstock

The “Cave of Poetry” is a stunning limestone sinkhole near the Adriatic coast of Puglia, Italy, where turquoise seawater fills a natural pool surrounded by ancient ruins and dramatic rock formations. According to legend, a beautiful princess once bathed here daily, inspiring poets from across the land — hence the name. The pool is about 30 feet wide and connected to the sea via an underwater tunnel, giving it the appearance of a secret grotto. Getting in typically involves a short scramble over rocks or a daring jump from the ledges above. While the site has gained popularity thanks to Instagram, it remains raw and undeveloped — there are no lifeguards or facilities, and caution is advised, especially when the sea is rough.

To Sua Ocean Trench – Lotofaga, SamoaPhoto: mayqo/ShutterstockPhoto: edierdel/Shutterstock

To Sua, meaning “giant hole” in Samoan, is a surreal natural trench on the south coast of Upolu island. It looks like something from a fantasy novel: a 100-foot-deep, nearly perfect oval sinkhole filled with emerald seawater and surrounded by lush tropical gardens. A wooden ladder leads to a small platform at the bottom, where swimmers can float in peace beneath steep volcanic walls. To Sua connects to the ocean via a lava tube, allowing gentle tidal flows without the danger of crashing waves. There’s a modest entrance fee, and amenities include changing rooms, picnic areas, and lookout platforms. While its isolated beauty draws adventurers, it’s remarkably well maintained and accessible — one of Samoa’s most photographed spots for good reason.

More like thisBeaches and IslandsThe 13 Most Stunning Pink Sand Beaches in the World

Level Up Your Caribbean Vacation on Curaçao

Level Up Your Caribbean Vacation on CuraçaoText: Kristin Braswell | Photos: Curaçao Tourist Board

There’s a word in Papiamentu, one of Curaçao’s three official languages, that reminds us to appreciate the beauty of the moment: dushi. It’s a term you’ll hear often across the Dutch Caribbean, but dushi is more than just a word when you visit Curaçao — it’s a sentiment you can’t help but embrace on an island brimming with community celebrations and exhilarating forays into nature.

A few hours by plane from Miami, Curaçao is positioned just north of South America in a sweet spot that affords it some of the most consistently blue skies in the Caribbean. (Think sunshine roughly 350 days out of the year, with refreshing trade winds that keep humidity levels low.) Awaiting your arrival are 35 diverse beaches, activities like world-class diving, and an arts scene that packs a lot into Curaçao’s modest footprint. While the island is an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, its cultural makeup beautifully blends African, Latin, European, and Indigenous influences, creating a place that’s uniquely its own.

To level up the typical Caribbean vacation and sample the dushi life, come and feel it for yourself.

This post is proudly produced in partnership with the Curaçao Tourist Board.

Capital City Arts & Culture A Walkable Capital Vibrant Street Art Food to Write Home About Bursting with brightly painted buildings, art that’s integrated into the island’s very architecture, and a food scene that’ll satisfy every craving, Curaçao and its capital Willemstad are a mashup of sensory experiences.The capital city is a living museum…

Willemstad is frequently referred to as the “most colorful city in the Caribbean” or the “most colorful capital in the world.” Those are hard claims to prove, but take one look at the island’s UNESCO-listed core and you might just be convinced. The vivid Dutch colonials alone make a compelling case — and that’s before you consider the city’s impressive lineup of street art.

You’ll find murals elevating the facades of buildings across Willemstad’s most coveted neighorhoods, from Punda and Otrobanda to Pietermaai and Scharloo. One famous example is Francis Sling’s Three O’Clock Romance. An explosion of blue, white, yellow, and green, the piece depicts two birds cozied up in a tree and is a beautiful representation of Curaçao’s tropical spirit.

…that you can walk for hours…

Pietermaai is one neighborhood where you’ll want to take your time. In 1999, a full-scale revitalization effort gave many of the hotels, cafes, and art studios in this area an upgrade, resulting in gleaming rows of candy-colored buildings and a bustling energy that inspired the neighborhood’s nickname: the SoHo of Curaçao.

Get an up-close and personal perspective on the district’s dynamic arts scene with Dushi Walks, a company that specializes in intimate tours of the island’s many mesmerizing corners and hidden alleyways.

…and savor for days (and nights).

As colorful as Curaçao’s street art is its famous blue liqueur, flavored with the dried peel of the island’s indigenous laraha orange. Landhuis Chobolobo is a distillery in Willemstad that’s been producing Blue Curaçao since 1896. Stop by to sample it during a guided tour or take an interactive, two-hour cocktail-making class.

For a taste of Curacao’s nightlife, Willemstad’s Punda Thursday Vibes is a festive street party featuring street food, local crafts, and traditional music and dance performances influenced by the island’s multicultural heritage. Make sure to try local bites like savory pastries (pastechis) and stuffed cheese (keshi yena).

A Beach for Every Traveler Cas Abao Kitesurfing in Klein Curaçao Curaçao’s sparkling 79-mile coastline holds dozens of beaches, each with its own identity. Take your pick between quiet coves and long stretches of sugar sand with lapping waves. With roughly one beach for every five square miles of island, you can experience a different one every day with no repeats (until, of course, you fall in love with one).Your new favorite beach is here…

You can’t talk about Curaçao’s beach scene without mentioning Cas Abao. It has all the trademarks of paradise: golden sand flanked by palm trees, warm turquoise waters that are prime for swimming and snorkeling, and nicely spaced thatched-roof palapas where you can rest in the shade. Add to that a beach bar and restaurant — not to mention a spa offering waterfront massages — and you could easily spend an entire day here. While Cas Abao is one of the island’s most popular beaches, its long, wide shore ensures it never feels very crowded.

On Curaçao’s west coast, which is particularly known for its beaches, Playa Kenepa Grandi is a free public beach that’s earned a reputation for having some of the island’s most powdery sand and best diving opportunities.

…or perhaps it’s even further off the beaten track.

For an adventure off the main island, travel two hours via boat to the uninhabited island of Klein Curaçao, which also happens to be home to Curaçao’s longest beach. Several sailboat operators organize day trips here that include snorkeling and barbecue lunches, while yacht and powerboat cruises stop in as well.

On the island, it’s best to keep a snorkel handy. You can admire the shockingly clear waters from shore, but nothing compares to the wonder of observing marine creatures in their natural habitat, thanks to nearly 100 feet of visibility. If you’re lucky, you might spot a sea turtle swimming below — Klein Curaçao is an important nesting ground for green turtles.

Island Festivals & Events Carnival in Curaçao International Music Festivals Quiet moments spent walking Willemstad’s streets, admiring the kaleidoscopic Handelskade waterfront, and watching the Queen Emma Bridge swing open for incoming ships from the comfort of a cafe are inspiring any time of year. But check the cultural calendar during your visit and plan to attend a Curaçao festival if you can.
Curaçao’s celebratory spirit is unstoppable…

Among the greatest, most hypnotic examples of Curaçao’s melting pot of nationalities is tumba — a rhythmic, drum-based style of music with African roots that sets the tone for the island’s most exciting festival: Carnival.

Tumba fills the streets during Nos Karnaval, as the festival is called in Papiamentu, while bedazzled bodies dance from day to night and onlookers cheer on paraders and passing floats. The entire route is open to the public to view the processions, and there’s no shortage of food and drink to keep the merriment going. Join the celebration between January and February during the six weeks that lead up to Lent.

…no matter when you visit.

Carnival is the island’s big-name fiesta, but Curaçao’s penchant for revelry can’t be contained by a single event. In-the-know travelers can plan a summer trip to double down on the festivities.

Every year, an all-star international lineup of musicians serenades the island during the Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival. The 11th edition returns this August against the backdrop of stunning Piscadera Bay. Also in August, the Kaya Kaya Festival ignites Otrabanda’s streets with live music, art displays, community workshops, and more.

Exploring Underwater Worlds off Curaçao Wildlife encounters Shipwreck diving After sunning, swimming, and snorkeling up and down the coast, strap on a BCD to explore beneath the surface of the island’s clear-as-glass waters. Curaçao’s dive sites are bound to amaze, whether you’re new to scuba or a seasoned diver.
Choose between exploring wrecks…

Scuba diving is one of the most out-of-this-world ways to level up your Curaçao vacation — case in point, the Superior Producer dive site, located near the entrance to Willemstad’s main harbor. Considered one of the Caribbean’s most iconic shipwrecks, the 400-ton freighter rests on its keel in about 100 feet of water.

Since sinking in 1977, it’s become an artificial reef that teems with marine life. Keep an eye out for fish species such as barracudas, tarpons, and jacks. Just note that, while reasonably accessible for a wreck dive, this is considered an advanced site and is only available during the off season for cruise ships (given its proximity to the harbor).

…and drifting over a surreal seafloor.

On the island’s westernmost point, the Watamula site provides a thrilling dive into pristine coral formations. The site gets its name from the Dutch word watermolen (water mill) because of how the currents flow here — making for excellent drift diving.

The underwater landscape is equally dramatic, with a mix of hard and soft corals that create homes for species such as sea turtles, moray eels, and eagle rays. How many will you spot on your underwater Curaçao adventure?

This post is proudly produced in partnership with the Curaçao Tourist Board.

Level Up Your Caribbean Vacation on Curaçao

Level Up Your Caribbean Vacation on CuraçaoText: Kristin Braswell | Photos: Curaçao Tourist Board

There’s a word in Papiamentu, one of Curaçao’s three official languages, that reminds us to appreciate the beauty of the moment: dushi. It’s a term you’ll hear often across the Dutch Caribbean, but dushi is more than just a word when you visit Curaçao — it’s a sentiment you can’t help but embrace on an island brimming with community celebrations and exhilarating forays into nature.

A few hours by plane from Miami, Curaçao is positioned just north of South America in a sweet spot that affords it some of the most consistently blue skies in the Caribbean. (Think sunshine roughly 350 days out of the year, with refreshing trade winds that keep humidity levels low.) Awaiting your arrival are 35 diverse beaches, activities like world-class diving, and an arts scene that packs a lot into Curaçao’s modest footprint. While the island is an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, its cultural makeup beautifully blends African, Latin, European, and Indigenous influences, creating a place that’s uniquely its own.

To level up the typical Caribbean vacation and sample the dushi life, come and feel it for yourself.

This post is proudly produced in partnership with the Curaçao Tourist Board.

Capital City Arts & Culture A Walkable Capital Vibrant Street Art Food to Write Home About Bursting with brightly painted buildings, art that’s integrated into the island’s very architecture, and a food scene that’ll satisfy every craving, Curaçao and its capital Willemstad are a mashup of sensory experiences.The capital city is a living museum…

Willemstad is frequently referred to as the “most colorful city in the Caribbean” or the “most colorful capital in the world.” Those are hard claims to prove, but take one look at the island’s UNESCO-listed core and you might just be convinced. The vivid Dutch colonials alone make a compelling case — and that’s before you consider the city’s impressive lineup of street art.

You’ll find murals elevating the facades of buildings across Willemstad’s most coveted neighorhoods, from Punda and Otrobanda to Pietermaai and Scharloo. One famous example is Francis Sling’s Three O’Clock Romance. An explosion of blue, white, yellow, and green, the piece depicts two birds cozied up in a tree and is a beautiful representation of Curaçao’s tropical spirit.

…that you can walk for hours…

Pietermaai is one neighborhood where you’ll want to take your time. In 1999, a full-scale revitalization effort gave many of the hotels, cafes, and art studios in this area an upgrade, resulting in gleaming rows of candy-colored buildings and a bustling energy that inspired the neighborhood’s nickname: the SoHo of Curaçao.

Get an up-close and personal perspective on the district’s dynamic arts scene with Dushi Walks, a company that specializes in intimate tours of the island’s many mesmerizing corners and hidden alleyways.

…and savor for days (and nights).

As colorful as Curaçao’s street art is its famous blue liqueur, flavored with the dried peel of the island’s indigenous laraha orange. Landhuis Chobolobo is a distillery in Willemstad that’s been producing Blue Curaçao since 1896. Stop by to sample it during a guided tour or take an interactive, two-hour cocktail-making class.

For a taste of Curacao’s nightlife, Willemstad’s Punda Thursday Vibes is a festive street party featuring street food, local crafts, and traditional music and dance performances influenced by the island’s multicultural heritage. Make sure to try local bites like savory pastries (pastechis) and stuffed cheese (keshi yena).

A Beach for Every Traveler Cas Abao Kitesurfing in Klein Curaçao Curaçao’s sparkling 79-mile coastline holds dozens of beaches, each with its own identity. Take your pick between quiet coves and long stretches of sugar sand with lapping waves. With roughly one beach for every five square miles of island, you can experience a different one every day with no repeats (until, of course, you fall in love with one).Your new favorite beach is here…

You can’t talk about Curaçao’s beach scene without mentioning Cas Abao. It has all the trademarks of paradise: golden sand flanked by palm trees, warm turquoise waters that are prime for swimming and snorkeling, and nicely spaced thatched-roof palapas where you can rest in the shade. Add to that a beach bar and restaurant — not to mention a spa offering waterfront massages — and you could easily spend an entire day here. While Cas Abao is one of the island’s most popular beaches, its long, wide shore ensures it never feels very crowded.

On Curaçao’s west coast, which is particularly known for its beaches, Playa Kenepa Grandi is a free public beach that’s earned a reputation for having some of the island’s most powdery sand and best diving opportunities.

…or perhaps it’s even further off the beaten track.

For an adventure off the main island, travel two hours via boat to the uninhabited island of Klein Curaçao, which also happens to be home to Curaçao’s longest beach. Several sailboat operators organize day trips here that include snorkeling and barbecue lunches, while yacht and powerboat cruises stop in as well.

On the island, it’s best to keep a snorkel handy. You can admire the shockingly clear waters from shore, but nothing compares to the wonder of observing marine creatures in their natural habitat, thanks to nearly 100 feet of visibility. If you’re lucky, you might spot a sea turtle swimming below — Klein Curaçao is an important nesting ground for green turtles.

Island Festivals & Events Carnival in Curaçao International Music Festivals Quiet moments spent walking Willemstad’s streets, admiring the kaleidoscopic Handelskade waterfront, and watching the Queen Emma Bridge swing open for incoming ships from the comfort of a cafe are inspiring any time of year. But check the cultural calendar during your visit and plan to attend a Curaçao festival if you can.
Curaçao’s celebratory spirit is unstoppable…

Among the greatest, most hypnotic examples of Curaçao’s melting pot of nationalities is tumba — a rhythmic, drum-based style of music with African roots that sets the tone for the island’s most exciting festival: Carnival.

Tumba fills the streets during Nos Karnaval, as the festival is called in Papiamentu, while bedazzled bodies dance from day to night and onlookers cheer on paraders and passing floats. The entire route is open to the public to view the processions, and there’s no shortage of food and drink to keep the merriment going. Join the celebration between January and February during the six weeks that lead up to Lent.

…no matter when you visit.

Carnival is the island’s big-name fiesta, but Curaçao’s penchant for revelry can’t be contained by a single event. In-the-know travelers can plan a summer trip to double down on the festivities.

Every year, an all-star international lineup of musicians serenades the island during the Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival. The 11th edition returns this August against the backdrop of stunning Piscadera Bay. Also in August, the Kaya Kaya Festival ignites Otrabanda’s streets with live music, art displays, community workshops, and more.

Exploring Underwater Worlds off Curaçao Wildlife encounters Shipwreck diving After sunning, swimming, and snorkeling up and down the coast, strap on a BCD to explore beneath the surface of the island’s clear-as-glass waters. Curaçao’s dive sites are bound to amaze, whether you’re new to scuba or a seasoned diver.
Choose between exploring wrecks…

Scuba diving is one of the most out-of-this-world ways to level up your Curaçao vacation — case in point, the Superior Producer dive site, located near the entrance to Willemstad’s main harbor. Considered one of the Caribbean’s most iconic shipwrecks, the 400-ton freighter rests on its keel in about 100 feet of water.

Since sinking in 1977, it’s become an artificial reef that teems with marine life. Keep an eye out for fish species such as barracudas, tarpons, and jacks. Just note that, while reasonably accessible for a wreck dive, this is considered an advanced site and is only available during the off season for cruise ships (given its proximity to the harbor).

…and drifting over a surreal seafloor.

On the island’s westernmost point, the Watamula site provides a thrilling dive into pristine coral formations. The site gets its name from the Dutch word watermolen (water mill) because of how the currents flow here — making for excellent drift diving.

The underwater landscape is equally dramatic, with a mix of hard and soft corals that create homes for species such as sea turtles, moray eels, and eagle rays. How many will you spot on your underwater Curaçao adventure?

This post is proudly produced in partnership with the Curaçao Tourist Board.

The Best Time to Visit Italy for Beaches, Sightseeing, Fresh Olives and More

If you’re starting to think about a trip to Italy and wondering when you should go, you’ll get lots of advice. Don’t go near this place in the summertime. It rains all spring in that town. This city is glorious in October. But the truth is, almost anytime is a good time to visit Italy, depending on where you go and what you plan to do.

But to take some of the mystery out of your trip planning, use the guide below to figure out the best time to visit Italy based on the experiences you’re hoping to have.

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.

For city sightseeing: winter and early spring

Photo: MattiaATH/Shutterstock

If you’re anything like the average traveler, the combination of stifling heat and elbow-to-elbow crowds can be a sightseeing buzzkill. So if Rome and Florence are on your agenda, the best time to visit Italy will be January, February, and March, when the crowds are much more manageable — so long as you’re there after New Year’s and before Easter. In both cities, the weather during that time can vary from bright, chilly, and sunny to cold and rainy, though snow and truly brutal weather are unlikely in either place. In Rome, especially, the absence of crowds makes the winter months a fine time to explore the city. In the northern cities of Venice and Milan, the weather will be less cooperative and could be foggy, rainy, and bone-chillingly cold thanks to the humidity. But you’ll likely find the iffy weather a fair trade-off in exchange for the elbow room, especially at top-tier attractions like the Colosseum, the Uffizi Gallery, or in Venice’s narrow passageways.

The downside to city sightseeing in the winter is that it gets dark early — by 5 PM or so on the shortest days — and outdoor attractions will adjust their hours accordingly. But that’s just an excuse to start aperitivo hour a little sooner.

Where to stay for a winter city break

Photo: Airbnb

Where you stay can shape your entire winter city break — especially in Italy’s historic centers, where the right base puts you within walking distance of everything you came to see. In Venice, that might mean a quiet apartment tucked along a canal, close enough to wander home from a foggy morning stroll through Piazza San Marco. Check out Matador‘s full guide to the best Airbnbs in Venice for more options. In Milan, you’ll want a place that’s well-connected and cozy, ideally with room to settle in after a cold day of museums and aperitivi — this roundup has a few worth bookmarking. And for Rome, where even the tourist-heavy areas feel calm in winter, staying near the Colosseum lets you squeeze in one more site before dinner — these Airbnbs offer practical access without skimping on atmosphere.

For beaches: June and September

Visit at the wrong time, and you won’t have much room to yourself at Italy’s most popular beaches. Photo: iacomino FRiMAGES/Shutterstock

Now here’s a tricky one. July and August see the most reliably hot, sunny days, which means you’re virtually guaranteed some quality time with UV rays and warm (okay, warmish) ocean water for swimming.

But the best time to visit Italy for beach-goers is also the worst time of year for going to the beach in Italy. That’s because all Italians (and a good percentage of Europeans) converge on beaches up, down, and around the boot. Even harder-to-reach destinations, like the remote beaches of Sardinia’s Golfo di Orosei (Gulf of Orosei), are packed. Hotel and vacation rental prices are at a premium, and it’s hard to find a room or apartment without a one-week minimum reservation. Car traffic in beach towns is at a standstill, restaurants are overwhelmed, and beaches have only matchbook-sized sections of free sand. In a word: ugh.

Head further south and you can plan a beach trip (usually) into October. Photo: jackbolla/Shutterstock

The solution? Book an Italian beach vacation for June or September. There’s still enough of a beachy vibe in these months, minus the masses and high-season price tags. The further south you go, the better your chances of warm weather and seas tolerable for swimming into the fall. In Sicily and on the southern Pelagie Islands of Pantelleria, Lampedusa, and Linosa, it’s possible to swim into October.

Where to stay for a beach vacation to Sicily

Photo: Airbnb

Accommodation is also cheaper and more readily available in the shoulder season. For Sicily, if you want to start in Palermo, please, for the love of arancini, choose an Airbnb with character. After a cultural city fix, head to the coast, where you’ll find some of the most jaw-dropping houses in the Mediterranean. Surrounded by meadows of native flowers and ancient olive trees, this boutique villa is one to bookmark. This six-bedroom Airbnb, ranked in the top five percent for quality, offers 360-degree views of the countryside, mountains, and ocean. It’s a prime spot for taking in the dramatic pink Sicilian sunsets over the north of the island.

Traveling to Europe? Check out Matador’s Mediterranean accommodations guides: The 10 Dreamiest Islands in the Mediterranean, and Where to Stay on Each 20 Airbnbs in Santorini With Epic Sea Views and Pools 9 French Island Airbnbs for Those Who Want Some Serious Peace and Quiet These Airbnbs in Marseille Are Some of the Finest in the French Riviera The 24 Dreamiest Airbnbs in the South of France The 10 Dreamiest Islands in the Mediterranean, and Where to Stay on Each 14 Stunning Airbnbs in Sicily That Will Take Your Breath Away

For mountains: Late spring, June, and October

Photo: biletskiyevgeniy.com/Shutterstock

If you’re not sensing a theme here yet, it’s this: shoulder season. As with Italy’s beaches, the country’s mountain destinations are best enjoyed when everyone and their brother aren’t there. There are two peak seasons in Italy’s Alps and Dolomite ranges: summer and winter. Planning your trip to avoid the busiest periods (July through September for summer sports and December through mid-March for winter pursuits) means you’ll sacrifice a little in terms of weather and trail (or snow) conditions in exchange for lower prices and fewer crowds.

In these northern ranges, you can likely engage in some winter sports into early April, depending on that year’s snowfall and temperatures. This writer lives in Italy and snowshoed at Madonna di Campiglio in the Brenta Dolomites well into April last year.

If you visit the mountains in June instead of later in the summer, you’ll find crispier weather but still plenty of that heart-soaring summer beauty — meadows blooming, brooks a’babbling, and hiking trails shaded with new foliage. It’s the best time to visit Italy if you can plan your trip around outdoor adventure rather than beaches and cities.

View from the Apennine Range, Italy. Photo: Ruth Swan/Shutterstock

In the fall, there’s a shorter window of shoulder-season opportunity, largely because many accommodations and gondolas close from mid-to-late-October through early December. But if you can squeeze in a trip at the end of September or the beginning of October, you’ll have dodged the school-age crowds and be able to enjoy the more relaxed last hurrahs before seasonal closures. (Note that many of the same businesses that close for a few weeks in the fall also close from May through early June.)

If you set your sights farther south to the Apennine Range as it runs through Abruzzo and points further south, take heart: it’s never as crowded there, though winter snow and snowsports are no longer a given.

Where to stay for a vacation in the mountains

Photo: Airbnb

In the mountains, where and when you go tends to matter more than in the cities. Some towns stay active year-round, while others all but shut down between seasons. In the Dolomites, places like Ortisei and San Candido stay connected to the trail network even in quieter months, making them reliable bases for early summer hikes or spring snowshoeing. In the Alps, Courmayeur is one of the few mountain towns that still feels lively outside of peak season — and its compact size makes it easy to navigate without a car. And farther south in the Apennines, especially around Abruzzo, you’ll find Airbnbs are more rural and the tourism infrastructure thinner, but the trade-off is a slower pace and fewer crowds than you’ll find in the northern ranges.

For seasonal cuisine: October and November

Photo: Theo Nozdrin/Shutterstock

One of the great pleasures of a vacation to Italy is dining on seasonal, regional cuisine. And there’s absolutely no better time to do this than autumn, when Italy positively bursts with fresh-picked and foraged delights that are either unavailable or just not quite the same as any other time of year.

The best time to visit Italy for olive-oil aficionados is surely fall, when connoisseurs can rejoice at bright green EVOO (extra-virgin olive oil), which, in its freshly pressed form, has a spicy bite to it. Sink your teeth into a piece of bruschetta con olio nuovo (with new oil) and prepare to be transformed. Harvests start in late October, and most olive groves are from Tuscany south through Puglia and Calabria, or on the islands of Sicily and Sardinia. If you buy oil to take home, be sure it’s from the current year’s harvest.

If fungi are more your fancy, fall is also the best time to visit Italy. Autumn’s frequent rainy days, interspersed with sunny ones, create the right environment on the forest floor for Boletus edulis, better known as porcini mushrooms, to spring forth in abundance.

Photo: New Africa/Shutterstock

If you’re not in the mood to traipse through the woods in search of your next meal, you’ll find these prized mushrooms in plates of pasta and risottos, as hearty soups, fried as appetizers, or topping meat dishes on menus everywhere throughout the country.

The last of the culinary big three of the Italian autumn are truffles. These underground fungi are known for their pungency and persnicketiness — they’ll only grow in certain types of soil, under certain trees, and in certain seasons and regions of Italy. From September to December, expect to find delicate white truffles from Piedmont, Tuscany, Umbria, and Le Marche being shaved over plates of pasta, eggs, and meat. They’re more aromatic and flavorful and harder to find than summer’s black truffles. And for many foodies bound for Italy, they’re reason enough to make the trip.

Where to stay for seasonal cuisine

Photo: Ebbio Tuscany/Romain Ricard

If you’re coming to Italy in the fall for the food, consider a farm stay. In Tuscany, Ebbio is one of the better options. The restored 13th-century farmhouse near Monteriggioni doubles as an organic farm and retreat space. It’s run by a mother-daughter duo who grow everything from herbs to olives and host workshops on foraging, preserving, and cooking. Meals are vegetarian and homegrown, served around a long communal table. If you’d rather be near Sicily, the island of Pantelleria, just off its southern coast, is home to Parco dei Sesi — a working estate set within a 5,000-year-old archaeological park. Here, olives and capers are cultivated entirely by hand on four acres of terraced plots overlooking the sea. You’ll dine on meals crafted from the estate’s own produce, and it’s also a convenient base for exploring the island’s hot springs and ancient ruins.

More like thisBeaches and Islands7 Italian Lakes to Visit That Aren’t Lake Como

These Airbnbs Feature America’s Most Epic Pools

The Airbnb team has been squirreling away at making it easier than ever to locate dreamy properties. Hot off the press, the latest category to appear on the dashboard is devoted to amazing pools. As temperatures ramp up for summer, we couldn’t resist taking a peek at the coolest vacation rentals with pools in the US. From Joshua Tree to Vermont, dive into our round-up of the best Airbnbs with pools.

We hope you love the selections from Airbnb’s Amazing Pools category that 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 Malibu Dream Resort – Malibu, CaliforniaPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
No need to be a celebrity to live like one when you rent this A-list Malibu Airbnb with a heartstopping swimming pool that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. The hilltop estate is cushioned by the Malibu Mountains and features prestigious sun beds where you can soak up the vitamin D in between laps. Take a stroll past the koi ponds to the private tennis court and rally the clan for an evening sing-song around the grand piano after dusk.

Sixteen guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $14,160 per night

Book Now

Waterfront Siesta Key Villa with breathtaking pool – Sarasota, FloridaPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Why schlep all the way to Morocco when this riad-style Sarasota estate does the trick? Brand new for the season, this unique Airbnb revolves around a central pool flanked by ornamental columns, cushy seating, and upper-level balconies. The vacation home comes with a billiards table, a luxury kitchen with a diner, and suites fit for royalty. Casa Flamingo grants direct access to the water and kayaks are provided.

Twelve guests, five bedrooms
Price: $1,900 per night

Book Now

‘Desert Wild’ Joshua Tree pool and hot tub – Joshua Tree, CaliforniaPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
This bohemian desert oasis is configured to soothe the soul with understated luxury. Interiors follow a Finca style while a gas adobe fireplace adds comfort. Dressed with plush fabrics and whimsical elements, the single-level bungalow opens out to reveal the in-ground swimming pool and a separate spa tub. Sheltered seating – complete with a fabulous swing chair – is highly appreciated in this arid environment.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $500 per night

Book Now

Luxury home on 10 acres with private pond, pool, and spa – Tyler, TexasPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Buried among verdant greenery, this single-story home in Tyler, Texas, comes with an open-air pool and hot tub. The home is sited on a 10-acre patch of private land and grants access to a two-acre pond for additional splash time. Sunken family rooms are accented by vaulted ceilings with skylights and exposed brick walls. The master suite sets out to impress with a four-poster bed and attached marble bathroom with a large soaking tub.

Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $390 per night

Book Now

Matador’s guides to the best of Airbnb Categories:10 Remote, Off-The-Grid Airbnbs Where You Can Get Away From It AllThe 11 Most Beautiful Converted Churches You Can Stay in Around the World on AirbnbAirbnb Just Made Windmills a Category, and These 9 Have Us Planning a TripAirbnb Now Has a Towers Category. These 9 Will Climb Your Bucket ListAirbnb Launched a Tiny Homes Category, and We’re Already Planning Trips Around These 1111 Properties in Airbnb’s New OMG! Category You Won’t Believe Are Real

Lakeview cabin on 60-acre property – Peru, VermontPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
This lake view Airbnb with a pool in Peru, Vermont, is curated with a rustic charm. The swim space is fitted with a diving board to elevate the fun during lazy pool afternoons. A separate hot tub adds the luxe factor. The property is sited within the Green Mountain National Forest and the grounds contain a private lake. Indoors, you’ve got a spacious games room with a billiards table and bar.

Sixteen guests, nine bedrooms
Price: $2,260 per night

Book Now

Montauk waterfront retreat – Montauk, New YorkPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Come rain or shine, this heated outdoor pool with an adjacent spa is the perfect place to unwind during your Montauk getaway. The beautifully appointed vacation home is spread over two floors and receives a generous lashing of sunlight courtesy of French sliding doors and skylights. The private backyard steals a glimpse at Lake Montauk where you can dock your boat or rent jet skis.

Nine guests, four bedrooms
Price: $2,500 per night

Book Now

Five-bedroom house with pool, hot tub, and grill – East Hampton, New YorkPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
This luxury East Hampton vacation home with a supersized pool benefits from all-day sunshine. A hot tub is positioned next to the water and a vast lawn overlooked by a patio is perfect for yard games and barbecue afternoons. The pristine outdoor space is mirrored by immaculate interiors with state-of-the-art amenities and furnishings. Keep on top of your fitness with two Peloton bikes and a free weights area in the basement.

Ten guests, five bedrooms
Price: $4,000 per night

Book Now

Flawless Colorado mountain home with theater and indoor pool – Durango, ColoradoPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Swim year-round at this Durango Airbnb with an indoor swimming pool and tiki bar. The swim space is lavishly curated with a fountain and a detached hot tub while pool toys and vests are provided to keep little swimmers safe. An epic home theater is enhanced with a popcorn machine and gas fireplace. Meanwhile, all rooms and bathrooms reek of luxury and contemporary comforts.

Sixteen guests, three bedrooms
Price: $755 per night

Book Now

Texas Hill Country villa with waterfallPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
The crown jewel of this villa is its dazzling outdoor oasis: a rock waterfall cascading into a shimmering infinity pool, paired with an oversized hot tub that invites guests to unwind beneath open skies. Lounge on the expansive deck—designed with a garage door-style screen for seamless indoor-outdoor flow—or sip a margarita from the wet bar as the sun dips below the hills. The outdoor kitchen is equipped for entertaining on a grand scale, featuring a commercial-grade 48-inch grill, a gas-fired pizza oven, an oversized ice machine, beverage cooler, and every amenity needed for unforgettable alfresco dining.

Inside, the luxury continues with a state-of-the-art lounge and chef-ready commercial kitchen, but Lariat Springs always brings the focus back to the poolside lifestyle. Accommodating up to 18 guests across six well-appointed suites—each with private baths, 50” TVs, Sonos sound, and beverage stations—the villa is ideal for large gatherings, from rehearsal dinners and yoga retreats to corporate off-sites.

Sixteen+ guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,400 per night

Book Now

Gulf Coast oasis with caged pool and spa – Bradenton, FloridaPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
If you’re dreaming of sunshine, swaying palms, and endless poolside relaxation, look no further than Gulf Coast Oasis, a stunning coastal farmhouse retreat nestled on over an acre of lush Florida terrain. This luxurious 2,500-square-foot home is a haven for families and groups seeking comfort, style, and a spectacular outdoor experience. The true showstopper? A private lagoon-style saltwater pool and spa, designed to feel like your own tropical resort. With water views and a backyard tailored for unwinding, guests can float the day away, rinse off in the outdoor shower, and toast sunset with a cool drink in hand—right from the shaded patio that frames a picture-perfect view of the setting sun over the bay.

Inside, the home blends rustic charm with modern elegance, boasting soaring 10-foot ceilings, rich hardwood floors, and a beautifully updated kitchen with granite counters and designer cabinetry. Every detail is curated for comfort, from high-end furnishings to plush new linens. When you’re ready to explore, you’re just minutes from world-class beaches—including Siesta Key and Anna Maria Island—top-rated golf courses, shopping at UTC Mall, and restaurants.

Fourteen guests, four bedrooms
Price: $650 per night

Book Now

Whisperwood Lodge custom country chalet – Leavenworth, WashingtonPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Whisperwood Lodge is a chic chalet for families and large groups slap-bang in the middle of the Wenatchee Mountains. The outdoor heated pool is available seasonally and provides an eyeful of the surrounding ranges. When temperatures plummet, retreat inside for a round of foosball, poker, or darts. A gas fireplace adds a touch of hygge while a decadent claw foot tub is the height of mountain luxury.

Twelve guests, five bedrooms
Price: $865 per night

Book Now

More like thisEpic Stays11 Ocean City Airbnbs That Showcase the Best of Jersey Beach Life

Man Poses as Flight Attendant to Score Free Flights for Nearly Six Years

There’s an entire industry dedicated to budget travel and ways to book inexpensive flights, but one Florida man took it much, much further.

On June 5, a federal jury convicted 35-year-old Tiron Alexander on charges of wire fraud and unlawfully entering secure airport areas after he orchestrated one of the boldest travel fraud schemes in recent US history. Over a six-year period, Alexander took advantage of an airline employee travel benefit, despite not being an airline employee, to book and fly on more than 120 flights without paying.

How the scheme worked

From 2018 to early 2024, Alexander repeatedly posed as a flight attendant to use an airline employee perk. It allows pilots and cabin crew from competing airlines to fly free as “non-revenue” passengers on a handful of US airlines, not just the one they work for. It’s designed to support airline staff logistics for crew who need to quickly move around the country, but it became the foundation of Alexander’s illegal travel strategy.

Alexander somehow gained access to the internal booking system for the program, then fabricated credentials. He claimed to work at six different airlines, generating approximately 30 fake badge numbers and hire dates in the process. He used this to fly on several major US carriers, including Delta, Southwest, and Spirit Airlines. His destinations ranged from Atlanta and Dallas to Las Vegas and Los Angeles, and took more than 120 free flights, including 34 on Spirit Airlines.

How he got caught

Photo: Leonard Zhukovsky/Shutterstock

The unraveling of Alexander’s scheme began when he pushed his luck one too many times with Spirit Airlines. After 34 flights, Spirit Airlines initiated a review and eventually flagged the flights, which alerted authorities. Though Alexander fabricated his workplace credentials, he had to use his real name and birthday for boarding passes, creating a clear digital trail. In 2023, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) launched an investigation, culminating in Alexander’s arrest in early 2025 while he attempted to board a flight from San Francisco to Australia.

During every flight, he passed all TSA security checks, including ID verification and physical screening. TSA later said in a statement to other news outlets that while his credentials were fake, it was a breach in the airline verification process, not the airport security process.

On June 5, he was found guilty on four counts of wire fraud and one count of entering a secure airport area under false pretenses. Each wire fraud count carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, while the false pretenses charge could add up to 10 years, for a possible total of 30 years behind bars. Sentencing is scheduled for August 25, 2025.

While Alexander is the most recent large-scale case of airline fraud, he’s not the most famous. That title probably belongs to Frank Abagnale, Jr., who flew more than one million miles for free while pretending to be a Pan-Am pilot in the 1960s. His story was adapted into the Leonardo DiCaprio movie Catch Me If You Can. After being released from jail, he went on to make millions as a security consultant for the US government.

More like thisTravelScammers Are Targeting People Who Complain About Air Travel Issues on X

9 Essential Stops on A Southern California Taco Road Trip

Tacos are more than just a regional specialty in Southern California: they’re a part of the cultural and culinary landscape. Long before Southern California was part of the United States, it was part of Mexico, meaning Mexican food in California predates the state of California itself. Tacos are hardly the only popular dish from Mexico, but they’re a key part of Mexican food within the US, and tacos have evolved with the state, reflecting migration patterns, blending cultures, and the accessibility of street-level and pop-up restaurant ownership.

SoCal’s taco scene exploded in the 1900s, when immigrants from various parts of Mexico brought regional specialties with them, like carne asada from Sonora and fish tacos from Baja. Over time, American influences, as well as influences from chefs from other countries, started making their mark on the taco scene, too.

Today, Los Angeles County alone has thousands of taco vendors, from informal sidewalk stands to family-run fine dining and award-winning, celebrity-loved taquerías. And that’s just in Los Angeles County. Fortunately, the drive from San Diego to Los Angeles is roughly three hours, making a Southern California taco road trip not just doable, but downright easy. On the list below, you’ll find flour and corn tortillas, grilled meats cooked over mesquite, deep-fried fish in beer batter, creative vegan specialties using unexpected ingredients, and enough non-taco options to please even picky eaters.

The tacos below aren’t just good — they’re helping to define the modern taco scene and helping visitors taste Southern California’s layers of immigration and cultural blending that help define the Golden State.

Mapped: a Southern California taco road trip

If you don’t hit any traffic, visiting every stop on the map above would take about 3.5 hours of driving time. But you’ll need to factor in plenty more time not just for visiting each location, but for parking and dealing with California’s notoriously bad traffic. You’ll also likely want to make some stops on your road trip, unless you plan to eat more than a dozen tacos in one day. Fortunately, between San Diego and Los Angeles, you can do everything from watching wild sea lions to hiking the Hollywood Hills to browsing museums at sprawling Balboa Park.

Where to stop on a taco road trip

Stop 1: Tacos El Gordo, Chula Vista

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tacos El Gordo (@tacoselgordo_)

Tacos El Gordo in Chula Vista is a Southern California institution that draws crowds from morning until late at night, with lines often snaking out the door. The experience is hectic and unique, with customers lining up at different stations depending on which meat they prefer, from adobada (shaved from a vertical spit and served with creamy cilantro-lime sauce) to lengua (beef tongue), cabeza (beef head), and crispy tripa (intestines).

There are downsides: waits can be lengthy, the interior is crowded and loud, seating is limited, and parking can be tough. But for die-hard taco fans, it’s completely worth it, as many consider Tacos El Gordo a southern California rite of passage.

Tacos El Gordo: 556 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91910

Stop 2: La Puerta, Downtown San Diego

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by La Puerta (@lapuertasd)

La Puerta stands out for its Sinaloa-inspired tacos, with a lively and more stylish atmosphere than your typical taco shop — think tacos, tunes, and tequila in equal measure. Tacos are served street-style, though there are fancier taco platters if that’s your vibe. Standouts include the cochinita pibil taco, the pastor with warm pineapple, and the surf ‘n turf taco. All are available for lunch and brunch, as are the restaurant’s much-loved margaritas and extensive tequila menu. It’s not just an excellent stop on a taco road trip, but one of the highest-rated restaurants in San Diego on Yelp, too.

La Puerta: 560 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101

Stop 3: Mitch’s Seafood, Point Loma

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mitch's Seafood (@mitchsseafood)

Mitch’s Seafood in San Diego is one of the most beloved taco spots on the waterfront, especially for locals who know their fish. It’s on the edge of a working fishing marina in Point Loma and specializes in Baja- and SoCal-style seafood tacos with locally caught fish, often coming from the boats docked out front.

It’s known for “boat-to-tortilla” freshness, with which type of taco is available each day depending on what’s been caught and what they’ve been able to recently source. The menu has more than a dozen options, ranging from rockfish to salmon to monchong and octopus. Most tacos are served with minimal fuss: just cabbage, crema, pico, and a house-made salsa. It doesn’t take reservations and is quite popular, so try to visit during slower hours, like early afternoon, to avoid a long wait.

Mitch’s Seafood: 1403 Scott St, San Diego, CA 92106

Stop 4: The Taco Stand, La Jolla

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Taco Stand (@letstaco_)

Don’t miss the Taco Stand for handmade tortillas, flame-grilled meat, and fresh-made churros. It’s a modern homage to Tijuana street tacos with a cult following that includes more than a few celebrity names. Tortillas are made fresh in front of guests, the meat is cooked on an open flame, and the nopal (cactus) taco is one of the best veggie options in town. On TripAdvisor, it’s the top restaurant in La Jolla, so it’s worth the hype. And hyped it is — it’s been rated as everything from one of the (it has a few locations) and is quickly expanding to additional states.

The Taco Stand: 621 Pearl St, La Jolla, CA 92037

Stop 5: Haggo’s Organic Tacos, Encinitas

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Birrieria El Patron 818 (@birrieriaelpatron818)

Haggo’s Organic Tacos in Encinitas is not your typical taqueria, using ingredients you won’t find at most taco shops. The Azul signature taco pairs beef with bleu cheese, mushrooms, and arugula, while the “Immortal 2.0” loads tortillas with quinoa. There are multiple vegetarian and vegan options, plus non-taco options like burritos or healthier bowls. The vibe at Haggo’s is also unique, offering an experience somewhat like a backyard food lab mixed with a surf shack. You’ll order from a window under a palm-fringed canopy, where dogs nap at your feet and shoes are optional. Tacos are a little pricey at around $7-$8 each, but ask any of the many five-star reviewers and they’ll say it’s well worth the few extra dollars.

Haggo’s Organic Tacos: 1302 N Coast Hwy 101, #101, Encinitas, CA 92024

Stop 6: Holbox, Los Angeles

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Holbox Los Angeles (@holboxlosangeles)

Holbox, in southern LA, is a seafood-focused Mexican restaurant that earned a Michelin star in 2024. It’s deceptively modest, inside the casual Mercado La Paloma shopping area. Tacos here are way more than just onions and asada. Instead, you’ll find grilled kanpachi (amberjack) collar lacquered in achiote, or octopus tacos finished with squid ink sofrito. The Michelin guide doesn’t hold back praise, stating “Spectacular quality seafood of unassailable freshness leaves an impression, whether in electrifyingly vibrant aguachiles and ceviches, excellent tacos served on house-made heirloom corn tortillas, or skillfully grilled lobster — a panoply of exceptional house salsas gilds the lily.”

Despite the casual atmosphere, the presentation of each taco is worthy of a white-tablecloth restaurant. Sure, taking photos of your food before you eat may be a little played out at this point, but for Holbox, you’ll want to make an exception. The menu changes frequently, so come ready to try new things.

Holbox: 3655 S Grand Ave c9, Los Angeles, CA 90007

Stop 7: Sonoratown, Los Angeles

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by When In Doubt, Eat (@westcoasteatz)

Sonoratown is a small LA restaurant known for tacos inspired by the state of Sonora, in northern Mexico. The restaurant makes its own tortillas using flour imported from San Luis Río Colorado. The result is a thinner and softer tortilla with more flexibility than your average American flour tortillas. In fact, it won the “Golden Tortilla” trophy at the Great Tortilla Tournament in Los Angeles in 2018. Many of the restaurant’s tacos use mesquite-grilled meats, like grilled short rib in the Costilla taco, giving them a smoky flavor. Also reminiscent of Sonora is the fact that tacos are topped not with onions and cilantro, but instead with shredded cabbage, avocado salsa, and a grilled green onion. It’s an excellent stop on a taco road trip if you want to taste flavors from across Mexico, rather than just the usual street-style tacos found more commonly in Southern California.

Sonoratown: 208 E 8th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90014

Stop 8: Amor y Tacos, Cerritos

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Amor y Tacos (@amorytacos)

Amor y Tacos is a standout taco shop in Cerritos just south of LA. While the space itself is casual and unpretentious, the kitchen is experimental and creative when it comes to culinary skills. The menu is rooted in tacos and traditional Mexican food, but it frequently detours into Korean, American, and other global cuisines, with ever-changing items like tacos with house-made kimchi. If you stop in on a taco road trip, you may want to opt for the taco tasting flight, where you’ll get to try a rotating selection of three unique tacos.

Amor y Tacos isn’t Michelin starred, but it does have a Bib Gourmand nod from Michelin (an honor that signals quality and value). The complete “tour de tacos” is only $23. Reservations are recommended, as it’s rated number four of more than 180 restaurants in Cerritos.

Amor y Tacos: 13333 South St, Cerritos, CA 90703

Stop 9: X’tiosu Kitchen, Los Angeles

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by X'tiosu Kitchen (@xtiosu)

X’tiosu Kitchen in Bell, southeast of downtown Los Angeles, is a tiny, counter-service spot that serves some of the most inventive tacos in Southern California. The menu blends Oaxacan and — wait for it — Lebanese culinary traditions. Run by two brothers of Oaxacan descent who grew up around Lebanese food, the restaurant’s name comes from the Zapotec word for “thank you.” The al pastor, for example, is cooked shawarma-style (a nod to the Lebanese roots of the dish itself) and served on house-made flour tortillas alongside classic salsas and pickled vegetables. The beef barbacoa draws on slow-braised Oaxacan techniques, while the labneh-topped falafel taco is a standout vegetarian option.

X’tiosu Kitchen: 923 Forest Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90033

More like thisFood + DrinkThe 30 Least Expensive Michelin Star Restaurants in California

Two Huge Climbing Records Were Just Shattered on Mount Everest

Reaching the summit of Mount Everest, the highest point above sea level on Earth, is a huge accomplishment limited only to some of the best athletes in the world. With life-threatening challenges throughout the trip, including crevasses, avalanches, thin air that makes breathing harder (and, increasingly, extreme crowds), it’s a huge undertaking for even the most prepared mountaineer.

That makes it extremely noteworthy when someone sets a new record on Everest. And this week, two records were broken.

The most summits of Mount Everest: 31

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kami Rita Sherpa (@kamiritasherpa)

At the end of May, famous Sherpa guide Kami Rita broke the world record for the most summits on Mount Everest. The previous record — also set by him — was broken when he led 22 members of the Indian Army team (along with 27 additional Sherpas) to the summit at just over 29,000 feet above sea level on May 27. He used the South Route, the most popular route and the one used by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953.

Rita was born in 1970 and learned from his father, who was one of the first professional Sherpa guides after Everest was opened to foreign climbers in 1950. He began mountaineering in 1992 as a support staff member for an Everest expedition and first summited Everest in 1994. Since then, he’s climbed it at least once every year, making him one of the most experienced Everest climbers and Sherpas in the world. The next most accomplished Sherpa is Pasang Dawa, with 29 ascents. Rita also holds the world record for the most summits over 8,000 meters (42), including K2, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu.

The most summits of Mount Everest by a non-Sherpa: 19

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kenton Cool (@kentoncool)

Though it falls short of Kami Rita’s impressive number, British mountaineer Kenton Cool (his actual last name) broke a nearly as impressive record mid-May by reaching Everest’s summit for the 19th time. Cool is one of the most accomplished climbers of the modern era, as well as a former alpine guide and member of the British mountain rescue service. In the mid-1990s, he shattered his heel in a rock climbing accident, and doctors told him he may never walk unaided again. Instead, he dedicated himself to recovery and rose to become an even better climber and world-class mountaineer. He still has a slight limp from that injury, proving that serious injuries don’t need to keep you from your passion.

How to climb with Kami Rita

The 2025 climbing season just concluded, with the vast majority of mountaineers making the push to the summit during the more favorable weather windows of April and May. Adventurers who want to climb with Kami Rita ought to start planning (and saving) soon. He guides with Seven Summit Treks, Nepal’s largest and most prominent high-altitude expedition company. He’s both a lead guide, and an ambassador for the company.

Seven Summit Treks is known for offering full-service climbs that cater to a range of clients, from elite mountaineers to first-time Everest aspirants, often pairing them with some of Nepal’s most experienced Sherpas, including legends like Kami Rita. Including your guiding, lodging, permit fees, staff, meals, etc., you can plan to spend at least $60,000 per person, excluding flights, gear, and tips, plus probably another $10,000-$15,000 to climb with a famous and accomplished Sherpa like Kami Rita himself.

More like thisHikingMount Everest Is Finally Addressing Its Enormous Poop Problem

These Oslo Airbnbs Capture Norway’s Charm and Cozy-Chic Aesthetic

Norway’s enchanting capital, Oslo never fails to capture the hearts of visitors. It’s a place where the charms of the past blend seamlessly with the thrills of modern life, where the natural beauty of fjords and mountains contrast with a bustling city life, and where visitors can enjoy cultural attractions ranging from museums and galleries to exciting shopping and dining destinations. Oslo’s far from the biggest city in Europe, but your experience of the city can vary wildly depending on where you stay. From lively areas like Frogner and Aker Brygge to quieter neighborhoods that’ll make you feel like a local, these are the Oslo Airbnbs to book.

We hope you love these Oslo Airbnbs! 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.

Modern Downtown ApartmentPhoto: Photo: Photo: Photo: Photo:

A quick walk from Oslo’s central station, this is the perfect base to take in the city, from strolling along the Akerselva river, to touring the botanical garden a five-minute walk away, to shopping at the Oslo City or Byporten mall, to soaking up the sights along the Karl Johans Gate, the main street that runs through the city. Back at the Airbnb, you’ll find a comfortable bedroom that’s perfect for a couple, a recently renovated bathroom with a washer and dryer if you need one, and modern electronics with a variety of streaming services to enjoy during your downtime. On sunny days, you’ll love having a balcony complete with a gas grill.

One bedroom, two guests
Price per night: $164

Bright & Airy Apartment with ParkingPhoto: Photo: Photo: Photo: Photo: Photo:

Located in Oslo’s Løren neighborhood, not far from the airport, this can comfortably house up to four guests, making it a great choice for families or groups of friends. The master bedroom has a queen bed while the second bedroom has a double bed. The rest of the apartment is great for shared living, from the open kitchen and large dining room to the living room with a gas fireplace and the private balcony outside. It’s not the liveliest area of Oslo, but it’s perfect for travelers who want to be in a quiet area with access to grocery stores, cafes, and plenty of public transportation for when they want to access the busier parts of the city.

Two bedrooms, four guests
Price per night: $131

Cozy Condo in a Vibrant AreaPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Photo: Photo:

This has the best of both worlds — or both sides of Oslo, at least — being located on a serene street that’s a mere five-minute walk from the most energetic spots in the city. Anywhere you can’t reach on foot you can access via the Skillebekk tram station, which is only two minutes away on foot, is a one-minute ride from the city center, and connects to every station in Oslo. After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll appreciate having an immaculate home base to retreat to, complete with a grassy courtyard where you can soak up the rays.

One bedroom, four guests
Price per night: $124

Upscale Apartment with a Balcony & BackyardPhoto: Photo: Photo: Photo: Photo: Photo:

Top-notch amenities, tons of natural light, and a private balcony overlooking a verdant backyard are a few of the perks of this near Bogstadveien, Oslo’s main shopping street, and Vigeland Sculpture Park, a popular tourist attraction in Norway. The apartment is situated on the fourth floor with elevator access. It comprises two bedrooms and two bathrooms, both of which have showers and heated floors. The modern kitchen is fully equipped and connected to a dining area that features a large dining table, and the spacious living room has a generous seating area and a large TV with Netflix .

Two bedrooms, four guests
Price per night: $208

Tiny house with killer viewsPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhotos: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosExperience the best of Scandi living at this one-of-a-kind Airbnb in Oslo. Located in the Nordstrand borough, the tiny home has a patio with sweeping views of the Norwegian capital. It’s furnished for all seasons, with a hammock and loungers for summer and a wood-burning fire for winter. Comprising a studio bedroom with a mezzanine nook, the rental suits small families or groups. The Old Town is a 10-minute walk.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $271 per night

Book Now

Huge architect-designed Airbnb in Old OsloPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis concrete-clad residence in Gamle Oslo (Old Oslo) feels super cozy with its timber interiors, assortment of well-thumbed books, and travel-inspired art. Besides the three bedrooms, two boutique bathrooms, and open-concept kitchen, there is a spacious patio with city views and a home gym. There’s plenty to see in town but you’ll be hankering for lazy days “at home” at this dreamy rental.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $625 per night

Book Now

Designer Airbnb in the quiet Grünerløkka districtPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhotos: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis beautiful vacation rental is in the Rodeløkka neighborhood of Grünerløkka, Oslo, close to the botanical garden and public transport. Once used as a stable, the building has been revamped as a family-friendly duplex with an industrial edge. The kitchen is stocked with everything needed for self-catering and there is free parking for one vehicle. Only the external areas are shared with the neighbors.

Five guests, three bedrooms
Price: $482 per night

Book Now

Historic single-family home near downtown OsloPhoto: AirbnbPhotos: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis Guest Favorite Oslo Airbnb stands on the border of Sankt Hanshaugen and Sentrum. Constructed in the early 19th century, the home has period charm including shiplap wall panels and timber beams. It has a private backyard teeming with greenery and a covered deck. The restaurants, bars, and attractions of Norway’s capital are a 10-minute walk.

Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $248 per night

Book Now

Nordic cabin in the heart of OsloPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosGet a taste of Norway’s countryside living at this cabin-inspired home in Old Oslo. There are two bedrooms and two lounges – one with a TV in the attic and another without downstairs – which makes it suitable for a pair of couples or a family. The terrace has lovely views of the city and there are great transit links on the doorstep. If you’re looking for hygge vibes, this home has them!

Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $206 per night

Book Now

Guest Favorite Airbnb in Oslo’s West EndPhotos: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhotos: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis three-bedroom vacation rental is situated in Frogner, between Sentrum’s Royal Palace and the Viking Ship Museum of Bygdøy. The townhome is the restoration of an old stable house and is spread over two floors with a private backyard. It retains its heritage appeal while embracing all the modern conveniences for a comfortable stay. The restaurants and ferry port of Aker Brygge are a 10-minute walk from the house.

Seven guests, three bedrooms
Price: $445 per night

Book Now

Massive house for rent in VikaPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis six-bedroom rental is the best Oslo Airbnb for large groups traveling to Norway. It’s actually the previous listing combined with a separate apartment and sharing the backyard. Besides the six bedrooms split between the two buildings, this larger option has two kitchens. Located in the Vika neighborhood of Frogner, the house is minutes from Aker Brygge and the historic delights of Sentrum.

Thirteen guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,158 per night

Book Now

Little red villa in Gamle OsloPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis family-friendly Airbnb in Old Oslo has three bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, and a large backyard with a lawn and dining table. This makes it a great option for families with younger kids – and there are playgrounds and soccer fields right around the corner. The rental has one free parking space and an on-site EV charger. Oslo Sentrum is within walking distance and well-connected by public transport.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $470 per night

Book Now

Nordic townhome near Mathallen Food MarketPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosSpread over three levels, this modern terraced house in Grünerløkka, Oslo’s coolest neighborhood, is surrounded by eateries and parks. It has a pretty backyard with a barbecue and a rooftop deck, plus ample indoor space for unwinding as a group or independently. The host can set you up with garage parking and EV charging facilities for a small daily fee.

Five guests, three bedrooms
Price: $918 per night

Book Now

Family-friendly Oslo Airbnb in NordstrandPhotos: AirbnbPhotos: AirbnbPhotos: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis Nordstrand rental is part of the peaceful Ekeberg neighborhood south of Old Oslo and Sentrum. It’s a 10-minute bus ride to downtown attractions with flawless bus links and free parking for those renting a car. The interiors are minimal in style and the backyard stuns with its barbecue deck and lawn where the kids can run around. This is definitely a place you’ll want to book during summer to make the most of the outdoor space.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $321 per night

Book Now

More like thisArt ArchitectureA New Oslo Hotel Lets Guests Sleep at the Home of Artist Edvard Munch