Matador Network's Blog, page 373

December 5, 2022

3 of the Best Things To Do in Puerto Rico on a Tight Budget

Puerto Rico is a Caribbean island that is rich in culture and history. The island offers many activities and attractions for visitors, including pristine beaches, world-class surfing, stunning architecture, and delicious food. While many people think of Puerto Rico as an expensive destination, there are many affordable things to do on the island. And one of the best parts is if you’re a US citizen, you don’t even need a passport to get there. Avid traveler Alva Vaz shares his tips for the three best places to explore in Puerto Rico on a budget so that you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy it.

@matadornetwork @Alva Vaz will show you why #Puerto Rico is a great budget travel destination 🤩 🇵🇷 #travelinspiration #budgettravel #tiktoktravel #puertoricotravel ♬ original sound – Matador Network

1. Explore Old San Juan

Old San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the oldest cities in the Americas. The city is full of Spanish colonial architecture, vibrant streets, museums, galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can explore the city on foot or take a horse-drawn carriage ride around town. Many of the city’s attractions are free or have an inexpensive entrance fee, making it easy to spend a whole day exploring everything this historic city offers.

2. Spend a day at Crash Boat Beach

Crash Boat Beach is one of Puerto Rico’s most popular beaches. The beach got its name from the boats that were used to crash into the reefs during World War II. Today, the beach is a great place to relax, swim, sunbathe, and people-watch. Visitors can also go snorkeling or boating. The entrance fee to the beach is only $2 per person. For a free beach, head to Flamenco Beach on the island of Culebra. This beach has crystal-clear water and powdery white sand, and it is the perfect place to relax and soak up the stunning views.

3. Visit El Yunque National Forest

El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system. The forest is home to many different species of animals, plants, and trees — as well as hiking trails and waterfalls. Admission to the forest is free, making it an excellent activity for visitors on a budget. Two of the best hikes are Mount Britton Tower and the El Yunque Rock Trail, which have great forest and coastal views. You can even take a dip in the Mameyes River to cool off after the hike.

Why spend your hard-earned vacation money on overpriced tourist traps when there are so many great things to do in Puerto Rico on a budget? From exploring the island’s natural beauty at El Yunque National Park to soaking up the sun at Crash Boat Beach to strolling through the streets of Old San Juan, there are plenty of ways to have a great time without spending a lot of money. And it’s a versatile enough destination that there’s plenty to do year-round.

More like thisTravel8 Unforgettable Experiences To Have in Puerto Rico With Nothing but a Carry-On
 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on December 05, 2022 13:55

The 5 Best Things To Do on Thailand’s ‘Turtle Islands’

Thailand is known for its vibrant culture and street food, but it’s also home to some of the most beautiful islands in the world. Koh Tao, also known as the “Turtle Islands,” are a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Located off the coast of Phuket, these islands are home to a diverse array of wildlife and stunning natural landscapes. From swimming with turtles to exploring coral reefs, there is something for everyone on the Turtle Islands. Here are some of the best things to do in Koh Tao.

@matadornetwork Koh Tao means "Turtle Islands' in Thai 🐢 This island in the south of Thailand may be small but @Liv & Lew | Travel Creators will show you that there's no shortage of amazing things to do here 🤩 #kohtao #thailandthingstodo #thailandtravelguide #backpackingthailand ♬ original sound – Matador Network

Go snorkeling and diving

The clear turquoise waters around Koh Tao make it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving. You can explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, or take a deeper dive and explore shipwrecks from centuries past. Whether you’re a novice or experienced diver, you won’t be disappointed by what you find beneath the waves.

Visit the white sand beaches

Koh Tao has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From white sand beaches to secluded coves, there are plenty of spots to relax and enjoy a swim in the warm ocean waters — particularly the pristine sands of Koh Nang Yuan. You can also explore each island on foot, taking time to admire local temples and markets as you go. Or take a boat tour of all seven islands and marvel at their unique beauty from afar.

Take in the Sairee Beach nightlife

Sairee Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Koh Tao. It’s situated on the west coast of the island and offers stunning views of the sunset. The beach is also a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. There are plenty of restaurants and bars in the area, as well as a few shops selling souvenirs and beach supplies.

Dive into the food scene

No trip to the Turtle Islands would be complete without sampling some of their delicious restaurants and street food vendors. From a sit-down experience at Charcoal Bay Wine & Grill to the bustling night markets, where locals sell everything from fresh seafood dishes to Thai desserts like mango sticky rice and coconut ice cream, you really can’t go wrong.

Relax with a massage

A visit to the island of Koh Tao isn’t complete without experiencing a traditional Thai massage. These massages are unique in that they combine elements of both Western and Eastern massage techniques. For example, a typical Thai massage will use both deep tissue pressure and gentle stretching to relieve muscle tension and improve flexibility. They also incorporate the use of hot towels and aromatic oils to further relax the body and mind.

More like thisCruisesSmall-Ship Cruising Is the Best Way To Explore Thailand’s Southern Islands
 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on December 05, 2022 11:08

11 Nashville Rooftop Bars That Show Off Music City

Nashville is a good-time town. The country music ethos of whiskey and beers assures that Nashville nightlife is alive and well. That’s been true for generations. It’s only in recent years, however, that its rooftop bar scene has thrived. Before that, the city didn’t have many skyscrapers to house drinking holes. Now there are bars with views from above all over town, from right on Lower Broadway to other downtown spots, Midtown and Wedgewood Houston. Whether you’re looking for a bar for a bachelorette , LGBTQ+-friendly establishments, or just a night out with a view, here are the best Nashville rooftop bars to try.

Denim at the JosephPlates and drinks at Denim one of the Nashville rooftop bars at The Joseph

Photo: The Joseph

The Joseph is known for its impressive art collection and which includes at least one piece you can only see from the rooftop. When it’s warm, you can sit outside and enjoy the pool and one of the hotel’s many walls of greenery. When it is chilly, sit inside and admire the decorative panels made from, you guessed it, denim, and the city views through the windows. It’s also one of the best vantage points of the Korean Veterans Bridge. If you are there are night, you can view the bridge’s arches lit up in different colors.

Where: 401 Korean Veterans Blvd., Nashville, TN 37203

ACME Feed and Seed

Housed in a building that has stood tall on Broadway since 1890, the ACME, as locals call it, is devoted to preserving Nashville’s musical heritage. The building is home to a radio show, multilevel stages, a full kitchen and event space, and one of the most sought-after rooftop views in the city. From this perch at 1st Avenue and Broadway, you can see across the Cumberland River and to Nissan Stadium, home to the Tennessee Titans NFL team.

Where: 101 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201

Bourbon Sky at the JW Marriott NashvilleBourbon Sky Lounge one of the Nashville rooftop bars

Photo: JW MARRIOTT NASHVILLE

Bourbon Sky was one of Nashville’s first jaw-dropping rooftop spaces and even as more skyscrapers have been erected, it remains the gold standard when it comes to views and to service. This bar is next to Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak restaurant on the 34th floor of the hotel. It has a small outdoor balcony and when you stand on it, you’ll feel like you’re floating above the city. Keep in mind, while they won’t turn you away without a suit jacket, business casual or dressier togs are appreciated.

Where: 201 8th Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37203

Assembly Food Hall Skydeck

Since the mammoth Fifth + Broad complex opened, it has been a downtown draw for both locals and tourists, a place where thriving food halls and shops mix with live music performances and broadcasts of key Nashville Predators games. The Skydeck remains one of Fifth + Broad’s lesser-known spaces. Its third-floor location may not be the tallest rooftop in Nashville, but it looks out on all of Broadway’s action, serves solid cocktails, and opens early in the afternoon.

Where: 5055 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203

Nudie’s Honky TonkNashville rooftop bar Nudie’s Honky Tonk on sunny day

Photo: Nudie’s Honky Tonk

Keep your clothes on. The name doesn’t relate to a state of undress. The bar is an homage to Nudie Cohn, the tailor who gave Nashville stars their glitz and glam by bedazzling their stage costumes. Many of his rhinestone creations have been preserved here (as well as his Cadillac, which hangs from the wall). The rooftop bar looks out over Broadway, so you can watch the activity of the Honky Tonk Highway.

Where: 409 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201

The Chestnut at BentoLiving

From its location at the edge of the Chestnut Hill and Wedgewood Houston neighborhoods south of downtown, The Chestnut offers a different perspective of the city. Come here for live music events, yoga, and craft cocktails, all framed by brightly colored art elements perfect for photoshoots. The Chestnut is a good option for folks who want some rooftop action but are looking for smaller crowds than the Broadway scene.

Where: 321 Hart St., Nashville TN 37210

L27 at the Westin NashvilleNashville rooftop bar L27 with pool at sunset

Photo: The Westin Nashville

This is probably the only Nashville rooftop bar you’ll notice from street level. That’s because the glass wall in the pool glows blue, and that blue light is illuminated when you look 27 floors above. The menu for the two-story bar includes shareable plates, such as truffled grits and grilled octopus, plus several specialty cocktails. L27 is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season.

Where: 807 Clark Pl., Nashville, TN 37203

White Limozeennashville-bars-for-a-bachelorette-party-white-limozeen-dolly

Photo: Digital Love Photography

Another contender for the most photographed Music City rooftop, White Limozeen at the Graduate Nashville, is named after one of Dolly Parton’s record albums. The rooftop even features a giant pink bust of Dolly, sculpted out of chicken wire. This Midtown rooftop near the Vanderbilt University campus is designed to be photographed, with its all-pink décor. But make sure to put down your phone long enough to order food and specialty drinks, especially the Champagne Jell-o shots. Reservations in advance are highly recommended. 

Where: 101 20th Ave. South, Nashville, TN 37203

The Bobby Rooftop LoungeThe Bobby Rooftop at night one of the best rooftop bars Nashville

Photo: The Bobby Hotel

Perhaps the most photographed rooftop in the South, the Bobby features a 1956 Scenicruiser bus — yes, a real bus — perched up on the roof. The retro touring bus has been decked out with seats where you can sip cocktails and eat snacks and look out downtown. The rooftop is also home to a pool, lawn games, and in the winter, Igloos, and firepits. Reservations are recommended; everyone wants a photo with the bus.

Where: 230 4th Ave. South, Nashville, TN 37219

Harriet’s Rooftop at the 1 Hotel Nashville

One of Nashville’s newer rooftops, Harriet’s pulls off what seems impossible — a lush, green oasis in the heart of downtown. That’s because the hotel’s commitment to live greenery in all of its spaces is continued on its 19th-floor bar. 1 Hotel is a sustainably focused property: the team works to limit food waste, such as repurposing spent citrus peels and coffee grounds to infuse liquors and batch cocktails so that nothing is wasted — not even ice.

Where: 710 Demonbreun St., Nashville TN 37203

The Pool Club at Virgin NashvilleChairs and loungers on sunny day at Virgin pool club in Nashville

Photo: Virgin Nashville

If poolside cabanas are your vibe, this is the rooftop for you. While many of the city’s rooftop bars have pools, it is the star here, with red-and-white striped umbrellas and railings that are designed not to obstruct the views. Firepits help keep things warm in winter, as do holiday-themed festivities. Weekend evenings are when the in-house DJs come to play. The Virgin’s Music Row location affords a different view of the city, and while the rooftop gets crowded, it’s a different vibe than the Broadway scene downtown.

Where: 1 Music Square W., Nashville, TN 37203

More like thisRestaurants + BarsThe Best Rooftops in Atlanta To Eat, Drink, and Be Merry
 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on December 05, 2022 09:46

This Mazelike Cave System Near Tulum Holds One of Coolest Cenotes in Mexico

Along with world-famous beaches, lush jungles, and Mayan ruins, Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is home to thousands of freshwater sinkholes known as cenotes that double as some of the most magical swimming pools on the planet. Countless cenotes dot the Riviera Maya outside of popular destinations such as Cancún and Tulum — including Cenote Minotauro, one of the most fascinating cenotes in all of Mexico.

@matadornetwork There are thousands of natural water-filled sinkholes called cenotes in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. This one is Cenote Minotauro and it's near Playa del Carmen. It's not a very well-known one so you're likely to have plenty of space to yourself 🤩 #cenoteminotauro #cenotes #mexicotravel #snorkeling ♬ Im hot – mental health

What is a cenote, and what makes Cenote Minotauro so special?

Cenotes are natural sinkholes that are formed in limestone when the roof of an underground cavern collapses, exposing crystal clear freshwater that’s excellent for swimming. Cenote Minotauro is one of the most intricate cenotes in the Yucatán Peninsula.

The name comes from the Greek myth of the minotaur, a creature with the head of a bull and the body of a man. According to legend, the minotaur was hidden away in a labyrinth beneath the city of Knossos, which is reminiscent of the labyrinthine depths of this particular cave system. Cenote Minotauro features two swimming holes connected by an underwater tunnel. The main cenote plunges more than 60 feet at its deepest and is filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites that have grown over time due to mineral deposits from the water.

Jumping into the larger cenote from the surrounding cliffs and swimming through its refreshing waters is an unforgettable experience, but Cenote Minotauro is especially popular with cave divers. There are two main diving areas, the cenotes and the cavers. The cenotes are open pools with sandy bottoms while the caverns are more challenging with tight spaces, dark waters, and geological features. A variety of fish swim throughout the cave system.

Getting to Cenote Minotauro, and what to know before you go

Cenote Minotauro is located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum off Highway 307 near the town of Akumal. To get there, look for the entrance near the Pemex gas station by Xpu Há Beach. The cenote is located just off the main road and is well-marked. There is a small parking area and a short path leading down to the cenote. Once there, you can buy tickets to enter the cenote for 50 pesos ($2.50) per person.

More like thisArchaeologyThe Most Epic Pyramids and Ruins in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula
 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on December 05, 2022 09:00

These Beautiful Accessible Properties Showcase the Best of Airbnb’s Adapted Category

Airbnb’s Winter Release has made it easier to search for barrier-free vacation homes suitable for wheelchair users and those with mobility issues. Properties included in the Adapted category are verified by Airbnb, with features including step-free entry into the home, bedrooms, and bathrooms as well as wide doorways and accessible parking spaces. We’ve rounded up the most beautiful Adapted Airbnbs from Greek islands to remote cabins, optimized for comfort.

We hope you love the stays from the Airbnb Adapted category! 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.

Bliss Villa with heated pool and best location – Lake Worth, Florida, United States

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Freshly renovated, this contemporary vacation rental is a stone’s throw from the cafes, parks, and beaches of downtown Lake Worth, Florida. The one-bedroom villa is step-free and comes with an accessible parking space and a low sink. During your stay, you’ll share the tropical gardens, cabana, and heated pool with the occupants of three other self-contained bungalows at this tranquil resort-style compound.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $330 per night

Book Now

Cedar Peak – two-bedroom barrier-free chalet – Grand Étang, Nova Scotia, Canada

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Perched high on a ridge, this Adapted Airbnb in Nova Scotia offers unparalleled vistas over Grand Étang which make it worth waking up for sunrise. Custom-designed to be fully accessible to wheelchair users, the chalet is a take on the classic A-frame. The open-concept space is free from steps and obstructions, with a 13-foot window allowing the natural light to steam through. Follow the wraparound boardwalk to the panoramic viewing platform overlooking Squirrel Mountain.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $295 per night

Book Now

Wheelchair-friendly Villa Dioni with private pool – Tsoukalades, Lefkada, Greece

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Located on the west coast of Greece on the island of Lefkada, this Adapted Airbnb villa with a private garden and pool is the perfect place to unwind under the Mediterranean sun. The ground floor double bedroom is attached to its own bathroom, both of which are fully wheelchair-friendly while widened doors are verified. Less than five minutes in the rental and you’ll be at the gorgeous beaches of Tsoukalades.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $265 per night

Book Now

Surrounded by greenery – Carbonera, Veneto, Italy

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This charming four-bedroom apartment is located on the ground floor of a historic farmhouse encircled by vineyards. Accessibility features include step-free access, wide doorways, and a shower with seating. Interiors are decorated in neutral hues with original features including wooden beams. Outdoors, you are welcome to make full use of the lawn and patio – there really isn’t a better place for sipping a glass of Chianti.

Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $218 per night

Book Now

Lake and mountain views at Lake Havasu – Lake Havasu, Arizona, United States

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This no-step Airbnb villa in Lake Havasu, AZ, is spread over one floor. Rental includes accessible parking while the shower is barrier-free with seating and grab bars. Immaculately decorated with modern bohemian decor, the home is a treat inside and out. Amenities in the backyard include a private pool with waterfalls and in-pool loungers, a hot tub, a fire pit, and yard games.

Ten guests, three bedrooms
Price: $398 per night

Book Now

The Roblar Inn – Wine Country – hot tub – accessible – Paso Robles, California, United States

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Designed for larger groups and families, this one-story vacation rental in Wine Country is a short drive to the state’s best wineries. Reachable via a ramp, the property features three accessible bedrooms and ornately tiled bathrooms with grab bars and step-free showers. Originally used as a farmhouse, the home is uniquely decorated with rustic touches while the wraparound deck and yard

Twelve guests, four bedrooms
Price: $764 per night

Book Now

Milk Harbour Holidays Forge Apartment – County Sligo, Ireland

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: AirbnbaAZZXZZ

Wake up to the sound of the Atlantic Ocean and spend days watching out for the local wildlife at this dreamy Adapted Airbnb farm stay in County Sligo, Ireland. Features include step-free access as well as an obstacle-free shower with grab bars. Consisting of en-suite bedrooms, an equipped kitchen, and a cozy living room with sea views, the unit also has table tennis facilities.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $161 per night

Book Now

Beautiful cottage – Orosí, Provincia de Cartago, Costa Rica

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This one-story cottage is located one hour out of San José on the cusp of the Tapantí National Park. Set within a lush private garden with a plunge pool, the property is exactly what you need after a busy day of exploring the local area. Accessible features include parking, step-free access, and a bathroom with grab bars and a shower seat. Chat with the host family about arranging food from local restaurants at an additional fee.

Eight guests, two bedrooms
Price: $32 per night

Book Now

Takapō Retreat – Lake Tekapo, Canterbury, New Zealand

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Granting unobstructed views of Lake Tekapo and the Mount Cook National Park, this Adapted Airbnb is right in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. Step-free access is provided via an entry lift and ramp while interiors include widened doorways and an accessible bathroom. The backyard is equipped with a hot tub and seasonal pool while dogs are welcome subject to a small pet fee.

Ten guests, five bedrooms
Price: $469 per night

Book Now

Maison contemporaine de plain-pied – Cornimont, Grand Est, France

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This stylish eco-friendly villa is sited in the peaceful east of France, known for its bucolic villages and castles. Composed of one floor and a terrace with panoramic views over the hills and woodlands, the landscape is straight out of a storybook. A lit, step-free path links the parking space to the one-level villa while interiors are optimized for wheelchairs and those with mobility concerns. Pour a glass of Burgundy and take advantage of the raclette grill and fondue pot.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $151 per night

Book Now

Accessible luxury cabin with private hot tub and garden – Pilling Lancashire, United Kingdom

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Escape to the unspoiled landscapes of northwest England at this Adapted luxury Airbnb cabin with a private hot tub. As the night draws in, grab a bag of marshmallows for a toasting session around the fire pit. The cabin is step-free with a car parking space suitable for wheelchair users and a barrier-free bathroom. Crafted with attention to detail, the home is beautifully presented and is dog-friendly with a fenced lawn.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $224 per night

Book Now

More like thisEpic StaysThese Unique Abodes Showcase the Best of Airbnb’s Top of the World Category
 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on December 05, 2022 08:37

Everything You Need To Know About Bali Flower Baths

A trip to Bali isn’t complete without experiencing a traditional flower bath. These baths are part of an ancient Balinese healing tradition that dates back centuries. Among the myriad of temples, beaches, and activities that the island has to offer, Bali flower baths stand out as one the best most pleasurable experiences on the island.

There are many benefits to having a flower bath, both for your body and your mind. The flowers and herbs used in the baths have natural revitalizing and cleansing properties. Flower baths are said to promote feelings of peace and well-being, and leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

As the name suggests, flower baths involve bathing in water that is filled with flowers. These baths are usually taken outdoors in natural settings such as forests or rice paddies. The most popular type of flower used is jasmine, as its fragrance is said to have relaxational properties. Other popular choices include frangipani and lotus flowers. Most flower baths use jasmine or frangipani flowers because they have a pleasant aroma and look beautiful floating in water.

The best place to take a flower bath is at a spa. Spas typically offer different types of baths as part of their services, so be sure to ask about what kinds of baths are available when making your appointment. When you arrive for your appointment, you’ll be asked to remove your clothes and put on a sarong (a traditional Indonesian cloth wrap), a swimsuit. You’ll then be led to the location of your bath where you can get in and relax.

At some spas, you will be offered a complimentary tea service with your Bali flower bath, or a custom flower design for an extra charge. Most spas also will also offer additional services like body scrubs and massages, and there is often a pool on site too.

Once your time is up, you’ll be given a bucket so that you can splash water over yourself and wash off the flower petals. Whether you’re looking for a unique way to experience local culture or simply want to relax after exploring all that Bali has to offer, be sure to add flower baths to your itinerary. Just make sure to book an appointment in advance so that you don’t miss out on this romantic experience.

The best spas where you can experience a flower bath in Bali

Kaveri Spa at The Udaya (Jl. Sri Wedari No.48B, Tegallantang, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia)

Gili Flower Bath Spa  (Jl. Pantai Gili Trawangan No.59, Gili Indah, Kec. Pemenang, Kabupaten Lombok Utara, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83352, Indonesia)

Karsa Spa (Jl. Markandia Banyar Bangkiang Sidem Keliki, Kelusa, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia)

Bali Merita Villa (Anyar Kelod, Jl. Tegal Cupek No.67, Kerobokan, Kuta Utara, Badung Regency, Bali 80361, Indonesia)

More like thisBeaches and IslandsFive Lesser-Known Islands in Indonesia To Visit if Bali Feels Too Crowded
 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on December 05, 2022 07:31

December 2, 2022

Winter activities in the Midwest

As the weather gets colder and the days shorter, attention turns to the frosted slopes and open fields ripe for a day of snowbound adventure. At least, that’s how it goes in the Midwest, America’s true winter wonderland. Winter is the perfect time to explore the outdoors in the Midwestern states — just make sure you have a warm jacket, gloves, a good pair of earmuffs, and a positive attitude about a little wind chill. Here are the 11 most unique outdoor things to do in the Midwest this winter, from ice luging to visiting a “candy palace.”

Things to do in Michigan in wintersnow owl watching is one of the best things to do in the midwest in winter

Photo: Todd Maertz/Shutterstock

Photograph snowy owls

Shutterbugs may want to consider heading to the Midwest in winter to take part in photographing the annual snowy owl migration every winter. However, you’ll still have to work to find them. Not only do they have excellent camouflage, but they’re also rather rare, even during migrations. Birdwatchers usually only record about 100 individuals each year, and it’s very lucky if you see more than two or three in a day.

Because they’re hard to spot, you should go with a pro who knows both how to find and shoot the stunning birds. So if you like photography, one of the best things to do in the Midwest in the winter will be taking a tour with a Michigan photographer like AJ Harrison or Brian Zweibel of Sabrewing Nature Tours.

Try ice luging

It’s easy to get confused about differences between similar winter sports, like luge vs. bobsled vs. skeleton. Fortunately, one of the best things to do in the Midwest in winter is to become an expert on that topic. Visitors can try luging at the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex, about an hour from Grand Rapids. The center has one of only four luge tracks in the US and is open to the public. A luge experience lasts about 2.5 hours and includes all the necessary equipment and instruction and time to try it several times. You can also visit at night if, for some reason, you already happen to be an expert luger.

Things to do in Wisconsin in the winterVisit the ice caves at Apostle Island National Lakeshorethings to do in the midwest in winter - people at wisconsin ice caves with lake on left

Photo: James.Pintar/Shutterstock

Apostle Island National Lakeshore is a beautiful place to visit in the winter. The ice caves offer some of the most stunning scenery, and if the conditions are right, touring them is one of the best things to do in the Midwest in winter. You can only visit the ice caves when Lake Superior is completely frozen — and even then, walking on ice is still risky. The national lakeshore maintains a webpage with the status of the ice and info on cave accessibility.

Attend the Merrill Sled Dog Race

The Merrill Sled Dog Race is a winter event every January. The race starts in Merrill, Wisconsin, and finishes at the intersection of North and West Main Street near the small downtown area.

The course winds for five miles through the snow-covered woods and over frozen lakes. It’s an official event from the International Sled Dog Association and visitors can attend to watch the race, meet the dogs and mushers, and watch other festival events like skijoring displays. It’s a great way to get outside, enjoy the beauty of winter, and meet friendly locals. There’s music, food, and a general spirit that embraces the unique side of winter. It’s held every January or February, depending on conditions.

Things to do in Minnesota in wintershown: the northern lights. seeing them is one of the best things to do in the midwest in winter

Photo: Blue Barron Photo /Shutterstock

See the northern lights

On days when solar activity is high, which you can check using NOAA’s space weather predictor, you can sometimes see the aurora borealis (northern lights) from the continental United States. And the wide-open spaces of far-north Minnesota make it one of the best places for doing just that. Voyageurs National Park is a popular place for northern lights viewing, but there are plenty of other places in Cook County that regularly offer aurora viewing. The Cook County tourism website offers a few northern lights road trip suggestions online for your viewing pleasure (but make sure to download the route in advance).

Try ice fishing

If you like fishing, why not give ice fishing a try? The best way to try it in Minnesota is to go with a guide or rent your gear near the frozen lake, unless you have all your stuff. Bundled up in your warmest gear, you’ll trapse across a frozen expanse to carefully drill a hole in the ice, then patiently wait to see what’s coming up from below. Good places to try it in Minnesota include Red Door Resort at Mille Lacs Lake or with Ice Fishing Warriors, near St. Paul.

Things to do in Indiana in the winterSweets at a christmas market

Photo: Jane Rix/Shutterstock

Stroll through a Christmas market

You don’t need to go to Bavaria to enjoy mulled cider, hot pretzels, live music, and shopping for cozy wool mittens. Just go to Carmel, Indiana, which offers one of the best things to do in the Midwest in winter: a traditional German-style Christmas market. Much of what’s on sale and available to eat and drink comes from Germany, including herzhafte suppen (hearty soups), schnitzel with sauerkraut, and original German folk art and gifts. The market runs annually from just before Thanksgiving to the last day of December.

Visit Santa Claus

The town of Santa Claus, Indiana, is one of the quirkiest and most genuinely cute places to visit in Indiana in the winter. Visitors can attend multiple Christmas parades, have breakfast with Santa, listen to stories from elves, drive through a 12-mile light show, and visit the Candy Castle — irresistible to children and adults alike. Spending an afternoon in Santa Claus is one of the best things to do in the Midwest in the winter with children, though fans of the season will be happy to know that offerings like the massive Christmas shop and Santa Claus Museum are open all year.

Other things to do in the Midwest in wintersandhill crane iowa best things to do in the midwest

Photo: Benjamin Tillotson/Shutterstock

See the crane migration: Nebraska

Starting in early February, about a million sand cranes — elegant white birds up to three feet tall — make their way to Nebraska. The birds eat and rest in the state’s Platte River Valley. Even if you’re not a birdwatcher, seeing the cranes is still one of the best things to do in the Midwest in winter as the sheer number of birds is just incredible. Visitors can go for single-day hiking tours or stay for days at a time at purpose-built lodges dedicated to the cranes.

Celebrate bald eagles: Iowa

Iowa is a native habitat for bald eagles, and they’re celebrated every winter in Iowa. During the state’s Bald Eagle Appreciation Days, usually held at the end of January, visitors can hang out at the festival on the shore of the Mississippi river, where trained volunteers will help you spot the large birds. Also at the festival are activities for kids and adults, Indigenous cultural and educational activities, and plenty of food and drink vendors. Admission is free, and you can get all the details on the Keokuk tourism website.

Sightsee in the Badlands: South Dakotabadlands in snow midwest things to do in winter

Photo: Joshua Lombard Shutterstock

South Dakota’s winters are certainly not mild, so it may not be the first place you’d think to go hiking in January. But South Dakota’s badlands are some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country when they’re covered in a dusting of snow. Driving the Hwy 240/Badlands Loop Road is one of the best things to do in the Midwest in winter, especially if you like landscape photography. Just be sure to check the Badlands National Park winter road closure information before you go. Along the way, you’ll pass more than a dozen scenic overlooks. Almost none require walking more than a minute or two, and some have trailheads nearby in case you want to walk a mile or two (or 10).

More like thisNational ParksThe Most Beautiful Deserts in the US To Visit in Winter for Rocks, Cactuses, and Snow
 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on December 02, 2022 16:30

These 11 Spiced, Buttery, and Nutty Cookies Are the Flavors of Christmas in Germany

Every Christmas when I was a little girl, my godmother Judith would invite my mother and I to her home for tea. Judith visited Germany multiple times every year after studying abroad there as a high school student, and she always returned from these trips bearing goodies: German Christmas cookies fanned out a white plate and served with a pot of Sugar Plum Spice tea. My favorite were lebkuchen, a soft and chewy gingerbread-like cookie covered with a crisp sugary outer shell. I loved that satisfying pairing of textures, and the warming spices were the perfect complement to the chilly weather outside.

German people take their festive sweets very seriously. In Germany, on Christmas and the weeks leading up to it, cookies are undoubtedly the star of the dessert table. There are a number of varieties — many spiced and decorated with nuts — that accompany festive celebrations.

German Christmas cookie traditionsTypes of German Christmas cookiesWhat is the most popular cookie in Germany?What is the most popular Christmas dessert in Germany?What is the difference between lebkuchen and pfeffernusse?Where can I buy German Christmas cookies?German Christmas cookie traditions

Preparation starts early. Making lebkuchen dough, for example, can start as early as October, explains Anja Dunk, author of the cookbook Advent: Festive German Bakes to Celebrate the Coming of Christmas. The aroma of spices and citrus fills kitchens through November and the four weeks of Advent that run up to Christmas.

Serving said cookies is done in a very particular way.

“Each time friends and family come round, a Bunter Teller (directly translated as colorful plate, and in this instance a colorful plate of biscuits) is shared around,” Bunk says. “This plate should include as many variations in texture and flavor as possible. You can expect delicious spiced lebkuchen, cinnamon stars with snowy frosting, coconut macaroons, vanilla-scented crescent moons, bite-sized marzipan confections, and jelly filled rings. As guests leave it’s [customary] to send them home with a tin filled with these delights to enjoy in their own homes.”

These 11 varieties of German Christmas cookies, and the story behind each one, will add festive cheer to your holiday feasts regardless of where you are.

Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

1. KipferlKipferl are crescent shaped, powdered sugar dusted, german christmas cookies

Photo: Olinda/Shutterstock

These crescent shaped shortbread cookies dusted with powdered sugar have a distinct vanilla flavor. Traditionally, kipferl are made with ground almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts to add a layer of nutty flavor. The texture is pleasantly soft with each bite because of how much butter is in these cookies. Their simple appearance is deceptive, as the flavors are delicate but deep. You’ll often see them served with coffee and tea, as is the tradition in Austria, Germany’s neighbor to the south.

2. LebkuchenTwo Lebkuchen stacke don top of each with a bite out of each one, a type of soft german christmas cookies wiht a sugar glaze

Photo: anna.q/Shutterstock

These gingerbread cookies are spiced with cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg — festive flavors from around the world that are synonymous with the holiday season. Lebkuchen are soft and chewy on the inside, and most versions include that signature hard outer layer of sugar glaze that makes for a satisfyingly crunchy first bite. Some versions of lebkuchen are filled with pieces of candied oranges or ground hazelnuts or almonds.

Lebkuchen was likely first baked by monks living in Franconia, Germany, in the 13th century. Today, Nuremberg (which is located in the Franconia region) is still the number one exporter of lebkuchen. Nuremberg is home to the Lorenzer Forest, a paradise for flowers that attracted bees, which in turn produced honey — the central ingredient in lebkuchen cookies.

3. KokosmakronenKokosmakronen are german-christmas-cookies made from shredded coconut

Photo: Ildi Papp/Shutterstock

Coconut macaroons are popular all over the world, including Germany and the Netherlands, where they’re known as kokosmakronen. This simple cookie is spiced with a touch of cinnamon, and the shredded bits of coconut are held together by a light and chewy meringue. Served with coffee and tea, coconut macaroons add a slightly tropical flavor to the Christmas season.

4. Zimtsternezimtsterne are a star shaped german christmas cookie with a sugar glaze

Photo: Anastasiia Lang/Shutterstock

These cinnamon stars are another spiced Christmas cookie prepared with almond flour and sometimes decorated with slivers of almonds. Like lebkuchen, zimtsterne cookies are soft, chewy, and glazed with icing. Cinnamon is the predominant flavor, complimented by a hint of orange zest.

Recipes for cinnamon stars began appearing in German cookbooks in the 18th century.

5. Bethmännchenbethmannchen are a small, round german christmas cookie topped with almond slivers

Photo: hlphoto/Shutterstock

Bethmännchen cookies showcase rich almond flavors through marzipan and a decoration of three almond halves. According to the most popular origin story, Bethmännchen first appeared in Frankfurt. The wealthy Bethmann family commissioned a French pastry chef to run their kitchen. He created the bethmännchen cookie — which means “little Bethmanns” in honor of the family’s four sons — and, appropriately decorated each cookie with four almond slices. According to legend, after one of the boys died, bethmännchen cookies were decorated with only three almonds, a tradition that remains in place today.

6. PfeffernusseGingerbread pfeffernusse are german christmas cookies with a crispy sugar glaze

Photo: Berit Kessler/Shutterstock

The name of this cookie translates to “pepper nut,” which refers to the addition of white pepper in the dough that gives pfeffernusse its spicy kick. Like several other German Christmas cookies, pfeffernusse are reminiscent of gingerbread, and once baked, the mound-shaped cookies are covered all around in a shell of sugary glaze.

Pfeffernusse are especially popular on December 6, during celebrations that welcome St. Nicholas. In Germany, children receive oranges and nuts on this day to signify that St. Nicholas has deemed them “nice” children.

7. HausfreundeThis german christmas cookie hausfreunde is a sandwich cookie topped with a walnut and dipped in chocolate

Photo: hlphoto/Shutterstock

These crispy, buttery cookies are works of art. Hausfreunde consists of three layers: The top layer is dipped in chocolate and topped with a walnut, while the other two are covered in apricot jam and almond paste. The name hausfreunde means “friend of the house,” which might be a reference to the fact that guests are treated to these delightful cookies when they stop by on Christmas.

8. Springerlespringerle are german christmas cookies stamped with a elaborate designs

Photo: MariaKovaleva/Shutterstock

These elaborate cookies hail from the Swabia region of Germany, where they were first prepared to celebrate religious holy days. Anise-flavored springerle are part of a long tradition of bildergebäcke — German pastries that feature pictures, sometimes of royalty, biblical scenes, or coats of arms. According to German blogger The Daring Gourmet, the name springerle means something like “little jumpers,” a reference to the way that the cookies rise while baked.

Today, simple designs like flowers and birds are common. But back in the 14th century, when springerle were first introduced, The Daring Gourmet writes that the elaborate molds used to decorate the cookies were also an opportunity for bakers to showcase their wood carving skills. Originally intended as good luck charms passed out during religious celebrations, today they appear in German homes throughout the Christmas season.

9. SpritzgebäckSpritzgeback are a german christmas cookies with a distinct ridge design

Photo: Viktor1/Shutterstock

Like hausfreunde, spritzgebäck are buttery and crisp. Sometimes piped into its signature “S” shape, or into neat spirals, spritzgebäck also sports a distinct ridged appearance. One end of the cookie is often dipped in chocolate as well. Usually made with a cookie press that creates the exact design and shape of traditional spritzgebäck, these cookies are known for their delicate, dry texture.

10. SpitzbubenSpitzbuben are a german christmas cookie filled with fruit jam, these Spitzbuben have been stamped with a cut out simply face

Photo: Zeitgugga6897/Shutterstock

These flower shaped sandwich cookies are dusted with powdered sugar and filled with red currant or raspberry jam. Sometimes also known as hildabrötchen, these cookies are just as popular in Switzerland as they are in Germany. One interpretation of spitzbuben is that the name means “mischievous child,” a reference to the fact that some bakers punch three holes into the cookie, so that its surface resembles a face.

11. SpekulatiusThese spiced Spekulatius German Christmas cookies are in the shape of windmills

Photo: HandmadePictures/Shutterstock

Spekulatius, or speculaas as they are known in The Netherlands, are a spiced German and Dutch cookie, which usually takes the shape a windmill. Especially popular around Christmas and Advent, the month before Christmas, spekulatius are spiced with cinnamon, ginger, cloves, cardamom, nutmeg. This crispy shortcrust cookie is often compared in flavor to gingerbread or Biscoff cookies.

What is the most popular cookie in Germany?

The most popular Christmas cookie in Germany is lebkuchen. Lebkuchen are a soft and chewy gingerbread cookie that is distinctive for its crunchy sugar glaze that adds a touch of crunch to the cookie when you bit into it.

What is the most popular Christmas dessert in Germany?

The most popular Christmas dessert in Germany is probably the many different varieties of Christmas cookies. However, another beloved Christmas dessert in Germany is called gebrannte mandeln, or candied almonds. Candied almonds are a must-try snack at German Christmas markets, where you will likely see lots of kids running around with paper cones stuffed with these sugar-coated nuts.

What is the difference between lebkuchen and pfeffernusse?

The difference between lebkuchen and pfeffernusse is that the latter tends to be smaller and completely coated in a white glaze. Lebkuchen refers to many different types of German gingerbread cookie, although it tends to just have a thin top coating on top to give it a crispy bite. Pfeffernusse, which means pepper, points to its key ingredient — alongside the typical cinnamon, ginger, cloves, cardamom, nutmeg spices, the cookie is also spiced with black pepper. It’s typically smaller and rounder than other types of ginger bread cookies, and completely coated in a white, hardened sugar glaze. Sometimes nuts and orange peel are also added to pfeffernusse for another layer of flavor.

Where can I buy German Christmas cookies?

People can buy German Christmas cookies at Christmas markets, and online retailers like Taste of Germany. German Christmas cookies, including lebkuchen, can also be found on Amazon.

More like thisHolidays7 Amazing European Christmas Markets You Need To Go To This Holiday Season
 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on December 02, 2022 12:00

8 Museums You Should Visit in Vancouver

The best thing to do when in Vancouver, Canada, is to stuff your face with food (especially sushis and ramen) and shop till you drop. But once you’re satiated and have a brand new wardrobe, you should really hit the city’s museums (a small portion of Vancouver’s art and culture scene). You’ll find a variety of museums with diverse collections and attractions for all ages and interests. From contemporary art galleries to interactive science exhibits, here are the best museums in Vancouver, Canada.

Best museum in Vancouver #1: The Vancouver Art GalleryView of the Vancouver Art Gallery, one of the best museums in Vancouver

Photo: EQRoy/Shutterstock

The Vancouver Art Gallery is located in the heart of downtown and is a short walk from many of the city’s major hotels and attractions. The Gallery has a permanent collection of over 12,000 works of art from cultures from around the world and time periods, including an extensive collection of Indigenous art. But if you’ve visited once, don’t think you won’t see anything new by going again – temporary exhibitions featuring both local and international artists take place throughout the year. Visitors to the Vancouver Art Gallery can explore the galleries at their own pace or take part in guided tours led by knowledgeable staff.

Where: 750 Hornby Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2H7

Best museum in Vancouver #2: The Museum of AnthropologyThe Museum of Anthropology in Vancouver, Canada

Photo: Xuanlu Wang/Shutterstock

The Museum of Anthropology, located on the campus of the University of British Columbia, is one of the finest museums in Vancouver. It houses an outstanding collection of First Nations artifacts, as well as a variety of other ethnographic objects. The museum, designed by renowned Canadian architect Arthur Erickson, is best known for its impressive Great Hall (currently undergoing seismic upgrades.) The hall is decorated with totem poles, carved masks, and other First Nations art. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries at their own pace, or take part in one of the many guided tours that are offered.

Where: 6393 NW Marine Drive, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z2

Best museum in Vancouver #3: Science WorldView of the dome of Science World, one of the best museums in Vancouver, Canada

Photo: Dan Breckwoldt/Shutterstock

Vancouver’s Science World is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Located at the end of False Creek, the geodesic dome is an iconic sight on the Vancouver skyline. Inside, visitors can experience interactive exhibits on a variety of science topics, from space exploration to DNA to how plants grow. The museum is also home to an Omnimax theater. The hands-on approach of Science World, with puzzles, games, and physical challenges, makes it a great place to learn for all ages, and the stunning setting offers breathtaking views of Vancouver.

Where: 1455 Quebec Street, Vancouver, BC, V6A 3Z7

Best museum in Vancouver #4: The Vancouver Beaty Biodiversity MuseumBlue whale skeleton at The Vancouver Beaty Biodiversity Museum

Photo: Lavinia Mazdul/Shutterstock

The Vancouver Beaty Biodiversity Museum, located on the campus of the University of British Columbia, is home to an incredible collection of specimens, ranging from fossils, shells, insects, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and plants from around British Columbia and the world. The museum’s highlight is Big Blue, Canada’s largest blue whale skeleton.

Where: Vancouver Campus, 2212 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4

Best museum in Vancouver #5: The Vancouver Maritime MuseumThe Vancouver Maritime Museum, one of the best museums in Vancouver

Photo: Autumn Sky Photography/Shutterstock

The Vancouver Maritime Museum tells the story of Canada’s maritime history. Located on the waterfront in the posh neighborhood of Kitsilano, the museum includes interactive exhibits, historic artifacts, and a research library. Visitors can see a full-scale replica of the The St. Roch, the first vessel to traverse the Northwest Passage from west to east, as well as view historic photographs and artifacts, and learn about the area’s First Nations cultures.

Where: 1905 Ogden Avenue, Vancouver, BC V6J 1A3

Best museum in Vancouver #6: The H.R MacMillan Space CentreThe H.R MacMillan Space Centre, one of the best museums in Vancouver

Photo: Lissandra Melo/Shutterstock

The H.R. MacMillan Space Centre is a non-profit organization that promotes the exploration and understanding of space, astronomy, and Earth science for the benefit of all. Founded in 1968, the Space Centre is named after Harold MacMillan, whose donation helped build the planetarium. The Space Centre is open to the public year-round and is located near the Vancouver Maritime Museum in Kitsilano. Visitors can experience interactive exhibits, live science demonstrations, planetarium shows, and guided tours of the facility. The Space Centre is also home to an observatory, which visitors can tour during evening visits.

Where: Vanier Park, 1100 Chestnut Street, Vancouver, BC, V6J 3J9

Best museum in Vancouver #7: The Museum of Vancouver

The Museum of Vancouver (also known as MOV) is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the city. Located in the same building as the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, the museum offers a wide range of exhibits with objects, stories, and personal experience accounts about the city, from early Indigenous settlements to its foundation in 1886 and throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. Objects from MOV’s permanent collection include a gold medal from the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games, a Salish bracelet from the 18th century, and more.

Where: Vanier Park, 1100 Chestnut Street, Vancouver, BC, V6J 3J9

Best museum in Vancouver #8: The Bill Reid Gallery

The Bill Reid Gallery is a public art gallery located in the city’s downtown. The gallery is dedicated to the work of Bill Reid, a master Canadian First Nations artist. The gallery hosts a small permanent collection of Bill Reid’s art and objects and photographs relating to his work. Works from contemporary Northwest Coast Indigenous artists are also displayed. You can also find Bill Reid’s work throughout YVR, Vancouver’s international airport and at the aforementioned Museum of Anthropology.

Where: 639 Hornby Street, Vancouver, BC, V6C 2G3

More like thisInsider GuidesWhy Anyone Who Loves Great Food and Shopping Needs To Plan a Trip To Downtown Vancouver
 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on December 02, 2022 11:45

This Luggage Has the World’s Best Features, and It’s Currently on Sale

Luggage is one of those items that I always think shouldn’t cost as much as it does. After all, it’s just a bag, essentially — right?

It feels like in the last few years, luggage has become an item where style matters, instead of just a functional item. That’s probably due to the slick designs and marketing from brands making hip hardshell luggage like AWAY and Steamline. But I’m not a particularly stylish person, so I really don’t care what my luggage looks like — which is probably why I never want to pay what seems like unnecessary mark-ups to have a piece of “name brand” luggage.

Monos luggage - carry-on hybrid medium outside a storefront on the street

Photo: Suzie Dundas

What I care about when I buy a bag (aside from whether it suits my needs size and storage-wise) is how long it will last, how well it will protect my gear from everything from heavy rain to crashing onto runways, and whether or not the wheels are going to break on the first international trip.

However, a few years ago I was lucky enough to test a carry-on roller bag from Monos, and it’s the best checked bag I’ve used (flip-out laptop pocket!) But I can’t always go carry-on only, especially if I’m carrying gear like ski boots or a backpacking tent. But fortunately, Monos just introduced a brand new line of checked luggage: the Hybrid line. I tested the Monos Luggage Hybrid Check-in in medium, and it’s actually worth the (surprisingly low) spend — especially because it has the best internal compression of any suitcase I’ve ever tested,

We hope you love the gear we

recommend below! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase, but our editors do real-world testing and don’t recommend products we don’t love. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication. Pricing: Monos Luggage is up to 30 percent off

All Monos Luggage is on sale until Dec 4. Will there be another sale after that? Who knows. So buy it now if you have any interest.

Monos luggage - carry-on hybrid medium on the floor of a hotel room

The Monos Luggage Hybrid Check-in Medium: a great looking bag with the practical chops to match. Photo: Suzie Dundas

The Monos Hybrid line ranges from $325 for the carry-on to $445 for the largest (the check-in trunk). Even though I have the smallest checked version, it feel enormous and holds enough for extended winter travel, even when I’m carrying lots of bulky insulated layers and large boots.

I would recommend buying a bag right now if you’re at all curious about it. That’s not because I particularly care if the brand does well, but because Monos Luggage has a 100-day trial. So you can buy a bag and get hands-on with it to decide if it’s too big, too small, or if you even need it or not. And if you decide you don’t want it, send it back.

Most pieces of Monos Luggage come with a few shoe and clothes bags, and a little sponge to buff out any scuffs on the aluminum. There’s also a vegan leather luggage tag and a recycled storage sack for the entire suitcase, so you can toss it into the back of your closet without worrying about it getting scuffed or covered in dust.

It’s the lightest –and largest — checked bag I’ve ever usedMono luggage - carry-on hybrid medium open with gear inside

The medium check-in holds much more than I expected. Shown on the bottom is a packing cube with three chunky sweaters, a shoe bag with a pair of size 10 hiking boots, and insulated black gloves. And the folded forest green jacket item above? A thick, thigh-length jacket. It’s deceivingly large, despite being called the “medium.” Photo: Suzie Dundas

The medium check-in hybrid is the lightest checked bag I have ever used, which is no small feat considering the size and materials. It weighs just 11 pounds but feels much lighter than that, personally. For comparison, AWAY’s aluminum bag (gorgeous, but $725) weighs it at just over 13 pounds.

A light bag is important, especially if it’s a big bag, as you’ll pay quite a bit extra with most airlines if your checked bag is over a certain weight. That limit is 50 pounds for most US airlines, including American, United, Delta, and Southwest. So if you’re planning on filling a large bag, you’ll want that actual luggage to weigh as little as possible.

Even the small checked version is roomyMonos luggage hybrid checked spinner in mirror

A jet-lagged mirror selfie, for scale. I’m 5’7″ and the medium Monos Luggage Hybrid Check-in Medium is thigh-high on me. Photo: Suzie Dundas

For some people, checking luggage is the way to go. You may be packing in a hurry without time to par down your items, be all about fashion when you’re traveling, or going somewhere where you’re anticipating your clothes will get wet or dirty. If that’s you, you’ll be happy to know that even the medium carry-on bag is pretty dang big.

It holds 70 liters worth of gear (roughly double the size of a carry-on roller bag) and has a built-in compression panel to ensure you maximize every inch of space. It’s not over-designed, but it does have two zippered pockets on the compression panel, a larger zipper pocket on the inner zipper flap, and a long and slim pocket for smaller items like jewelry. When my Monos Hybrid medium checked bag first arrived, I worried I’d gone to small. But after packing it for the first time, there was so much space left that I thought I’d forgotten to pack something.

Features: light, waterproof, easy accessRaindrops on monos luggage hybrid

Can confirm: as waterproof as possible, as tested on a rainy mile-long walk in Munich, Germany. Photo: Suzie Dundas

Like all Monos bags, it has comfortable pull-up handle, suspiciously quite spinner wheels, and goes through a battery of what looks like pretty extreme impact tests. But the name of the line comes from the fact that it blends the aluminum of a super-durable bag with the lightweight of a thinner model. I’m not sure how they managed to do that while still keeping it quite light, but I don’t care, because it does appear like it can take a beating but doesn’t feel bulky and heavy.

Another feature (which I was rather indifferent on, to be honest) is the lack of an external zipper. The bag closes with two side clasps. According to Monos, this makes it easier to quickly get in and out of the bag. At first, the feature didn’t matter much to me, but now that I’ve used them, I’ve decided they are more convenient than crawling around the whole bag to unzip a lengthy zipper, and certainly make closing the bag much easier when it’s full (just sit on it and snap). it also looks a bit sleeker than a zipper and setting the TSA-friendly locks is super-easy.

Monos hybrid luggage: the best internal compression I’ve tested

Step one for compression: a full-length strap. Photo: Suzie Dundas

Step two: two smaller clips attached to a full-sized soft panel (with pockets)

What I love about the Monos hybrid luggage is that both sides of the clamshell-opening have compression features — in fact, one has two.

When open, the left side has two methods for smushing your gear as flat as possible: first, there’s a vertical strap that stretches across your gear and tightens to give the entire surface area a bit of compression. Then, there are two more tighten-able straps and clips on the fold-over divider, which gives it two more compression points. It works well, and since the other side has a full zipper around the main compartment, nothing will fall out when you open your bag. I also prefer this compression method to full, firm panels, which take up a lot more of your packing space.

DurabilityMonos luggage medium checked bag on luggage rack

It has a scuff after travel — not a big deal (and likely removable with the included scuff-buffing sponge). Photo: Suzie Dundas

If you’re going to buy a nice piece of luggage — especially one that boasts about exceptional durability — you want it to last a lifetime. I used it for the first time on a trip to Europe, involving two connection, 15 hours of flight time, and daily hotel switches connected by train travel. While I’m sure I couldn’t put it through more intense testing than Monos does themselves, I definitely bashed it against train staircases, threw it into luggage storage racks, and clipped it on multiple tight corner in hotels. It’s not dinged, dented, and while it has a few scuffs, that strikes me as a badge of honor (and unavoidable) for a hard-shell suitcase.

Fortunately, Monos bags have a lifetime guarantee, so it’s all good if something does break. Monos will send you either a new part or a replacement, depending on what makes the most sense. And it seems that’s not just because good customer service is important: sustainability is a factor, too. Monos is carbon-neutral, part of 1% for the Planet, and uses vegan and recycled materials. So buying a bag you can use for a lifetime (and repair if it breaks) is a great way to minimize your future materials use and help keep bags with shorter lifespans out of landfills.

More like thisTechnology + GearTortuga Setout 45L Is the Best Travel Backpack for Your Money

 

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on December 02, 2022 09:04

Matador Network's Blog

Matador Network
Matador Network isn't a Goodreads Author (yet), but they do have a blog, so here are some recent posts imported from their feed.
Follow Matador Network's blog with rss.