Matador Network's Blog, page 399
September 30, 2022
This Is the Fastest Way To Get Approved for Global Entry
If you’ve been looking into getting TSA PreCheck or Global Entry and decided to go with the latter, you probably already know that the legwork is a little more involved. Global Entry enrollment can be done at a limited list of cities with international airports and the Homeland Security site states that getting an appointment at one of these centers can take up to 18 months. To expedite the process, your best bet is to do enrollment on arrival. Melissa, a finance influencer known as @Millennialindebt, posted a TikTok about how she was able to get approved for Global Entry in only 10 days.
@millennialindebt All about convenience ! Here’s how I got global entry in 10 days #globalentry #traveltiktok #travel #traveling ♬ Munch (Feelin’ U) – Ice Spice
By applying and getting approved for conditional approval shortly before an international flight, she was able to utilize the travel she was already doing to get to her interview appointment.
There are 14 airports internationally that offer Global Entry Enrollment on Arrival, along with 51 domestic airports.
International airports with Global Entry Enrollment on ArrivalAruba Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA)L.F. Wade International Airport (XKF)Calgary International Airport (YYC)Edmonton International Airport (YEG)Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ)Montréal-Pierre Elliot Trudeau International Airport (YUL)Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport (YOW)Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport (YWG)Toronto Lester B. Pearson International Airport (YYZ)Vancouver International Airport (YVR)Dublin International Airport (IDW)Shannon International Airport (INN)Lynden Pindling Nassau International Airport (NAS)Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)Domestic airports with Global Entry Enrollment on Arrival Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC)Fairbanks International Airport (FAI)Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)Oakland International Airport (OAK)Sacramento International Airport (SMF)San Diego International Airport (SAN)San Francisco International Airport (SFO)Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT)John Wayne Airport – Orange County (SNA)Denver International Airport (DIA)Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)Miami International Airport (MIA)Orlando International Airport (MCO)Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)Tampa International Airport (TPA)Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)Honolulu International Airport (HNL)Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI)Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)Kansas City International Airport (MCI)St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)McCarran International Airport (LAS)Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO)Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLT)Portland International Airport (PDX)Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)San Antonio International Airport (SAT)William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)General Mitchell International Airport, Milwaukee (MKE)Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)Indianapolis International Airport (IND)To be eligible for this program, you must have conditional approval from Global Entry and be returning from an international flight. Otherwise, you’ll have to make an appointment like everyone else. You’ll need to bring your passport and proof of residency to the interview. To receive conditional approval, you can complete the Global Entry application online on the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) portal. Keep in mind the background check can take up to 90 days, meaning your conditional approval might not process in time for your trip. 
September 29, 2022
Headed To Europe? Here’s Why You Should Add Madeira To Your Trip.
For adventure travelers, Madeira has long been on the map as a must-visit destination. The large island north of the Canary Islands is part of Portugal, though it’s technically a hundred miles or so closer to Morocco.
Because of its lush, mountainous, and beachy terrain, Madeira offers travelers everything from world-class mountain biking and hiking to canyoning, scuba diving, paddling, and epic beaches dotted with natural ocean-filled swimming pools. And the food is a fantastic mix of fresh seafood, diverse fruits and vegetables, and a touch of African influence that makes it spicier and more unique than most food you’ll find in mainland Europe.
Not yet sold? If you live on the US East Coast, you may be once you learn you can fly direct to Madeira, Portugal, from NYC (on Azores Airlines) in about six hours. You can also connect through just about any European city if you want to extend the trip.
But if you’re planning to visit Madeira, Portugal, know that technically being part of the mainland European country doesn’t mean the culture is similar. These are 10 of the most unique aspects of Madeira that make it a must-visit, especially if you’re already in western Europe.
Madeira is safer than most mainland destinations
Photo: Suzie Dundas
In defense of Portugal’s cities like Lisbon and Porto, nearly every major city in every major country has areas you generally want to avoid at night or if you’re solo. But Madeira doesn’t really have any of those places, even in the capital city of Funchal. Sure, as a general rule, you won’t want to linger in dark alleyways at 3 AM — but aside from perhaps getting overcharged for an “I love Madeira” t-shirt, it’s really quite a safe place.
It’s a slower pace of life
Expect a slow pace of life, even in Funchal — even midday lunches are leisurely and relaxed. Photo: Suzie Dundas
Like on most islands, life moves a little slower in Madeira than in mainland Portugal. There’s not as much traffic, starting times for tours and activities are more suggestions than firm rules, and no one is too stressed. It’s a lovely way of life, but it does mean you should expect fine dining in restaurants to take about three or four hours –and you’ll want to leave a buffer between activities if you’re scheduling tours back to back.
Christmas shuts down the island
Photo: AlexMorozov1204/Shutterstock
Christmas is a big deal in Portugal, where roughly 80 percent of the population consider themselves Roman Catholic.
But it has nothing on Madeira.
The island’s Christmas celebrations — called Natal, running from December 1 to January 15 — basically mean that work and other responsibilities get set aside for six weeks.
On December 1, traffic is backed up as everyone drives around to see the massive Christmas light displays outside nearly every home and business. It’s so common for guests to drop by any day at any time that every home keeps traditional fruitcake and meat dishes for guests on hand. And every Sunday is a party, starting with Catholic mass around 7 AM, then turning into a party in the streets. After the party, some people go to work, but many continue the revelry at Christmas markets or in private homes until 1 or 2 AM. This happens nine Sundays in a row, representing the nine months of Jesus’ gestation as per the Catholic bible.
To put it diplomatically: “December is not the most productive month of the year,” said Sofia Maul of Wine Tours Madeira.
The plant life is endless
Photo: Suzie Dundas
Photo: Suzie Dundas
Southern Europe has good growing conditions for many fruits, veggies, and plants. But Madeira, Portugal, is one of the best climates in the world for growing just about everything, from tropical plants to pine trees to cacti to grapes and vegetables. Locals say “everything grows here,” and they’re not wrong, especially since the island’s elevation varies more than 6,000 feet, creating a massive variety of growing climates and conditions. As a result, food is bountiful, and nearly every fruit and vegetable you eat while visiting has likely been grown on the island.
The wine is very, very different
Photo: Suzie Dundas
Madeira’s most famous wine is not your normal table wine. It’s fortified brandy and is much sweeter, akin to a port or a sherry. In fact, you usually can’t even tell what type of grapes vintners used to make any particular Madeiran wine.
Wine from Madeira, Portugal, has a unique connection to the United States: because of how well it travels, it was one of the few wines that could make it from Europe to the colonies in the 1700s — and it was Madeiran wine that America’s earliest founders drank when they signed the Declaration of Independence.
Madeira does make some unfortified table wines — Quinta do Barbusano is a particularly nice brand — but most traditional Madeiran wine is stronger and sweeter than what you might expect. Take a walking tour with Madeira Food Tours or tour the Blandy’s Factory to learn more about how and why Madeiran wines are so different. And if you want to buy a bottle, you’ll likely be able to enjoy it for some time: unlike most table wines, exposure to heat and oxygen won’t damage fortified wines as quickly. So you can continue to drink them for several months after they’ve been opened at home.
Madeira has always had strong North African influences
Hats worn in Madeira, similar to a traditional Moroccan fes. Photo: Suzie Dundas
The concept of a sphinx is popular in Egyptian art. Photo: Suzie Dundas
Not surprisingly, mainland Portugal’s culture is heavily influenced by its neighbors — primarily Spain, its only other neighbor on the Iberian Peninsula. It’s been that way since around the 12th century when Portugal was founded, as everything from food and travelers to politics and cultural ideas arrived in mainland Portugal through Spain.
But for the island of Madeira, Morocco has been the closest significant influencing power for hundreds of years. Travelers and traders would stop in Madeira when traveling between Africa and Europe; inevitably, some people got offshore in Madeira and didn’t go back on board again. With them came spices and food, architectural styles, and fashion and dress from northern Africa.
In Madeira, artistic expression in all forms is generally more colorful and loud, with more African influences than in most of mainland Portugal and Europe in general.
Madeirans generally love tourists
Tourists from the European mainland in Madeira, Portugal, circa 1920. Photo: Suzie Dundas (original photo courtesy of Reid’s Palace Madeira)
Across all of Madeira, but especially in the city of Funchal, tourism has been the economy’s bread and butter since it first began to develop. According to Maul of Madeira Wine Tours, tourists from mainland Europe started coming to Madeira on ships in the early 1800s. They’d come to take advantage of the island’s year-round ideal weather and clean air and water, believing it was a cue for all manner of respiratory diseases and “melancholies.” So there’s no resentment toward tourists as you may (understandably) find in cities like Porto or Lisbon on the mainland, where tourists are driving up housing prices and taxing infrastructure, roads, and businesses.
Traditional food in Madeira is quite different from mainland Portugal
Photo: Suzie Dundas
The combination of Madeira’s northern African influences, ideal growing climate, and location in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean means residents have never had to travel very far to find ingredients for all manner of dishes. In Madeira, Portugal, two can’t-miss dishes are carne vin alou (meat with garlic, usually beef) and bolo do caco.
Carne vin alou is so popular that it’s the de rigeur dish of the Natal celebrations and most families make enormous quantities to have on hand for when guests drop by.
Bolo do caco is a flatbread, usually served with garlic butter. Like many of the breads made in North Africa, bolo do caco dates to a time when only the wealthiest residents had ovens. However, unlike most breads, it’s cooked on a hot stone slab — hence why it doesn’t rise nearly as much as the fluffier options you’d traditionally eat in mainland Europe.
Black scabbard: it’s tasty (really).Photo: Suzie Dundas
And the other delicacy in Madeira, Portugal, that you may not find on the mainland as frequently? Black scabbard. It’s a rather ugly deep-sea fish that can live more than 5,000 feet below the ocean’s surface. It’s native to the waters around Madeira, so good luck finding a restaurant that doesn’t have some version of black scabbard on the menu (occasionally paired with the island’s beloved bananas).
Madeira is all about the outdoorsYes, there are multiple places visitors can soak in ocean-fed, natural swimming pools. Photo: Suzie Dundas
Mainland Portugal has plenty to offer when it comes to outdoor adventure, especially around surfing and lounging on beautiful beaches. But in Madeira, Portugal, the options are a little broader, which is impressive considering what a small island it is.
Though you can drive around the whole island in about four hours, it has a lot of variety in terms of adventure sports. There are 6,106 feet between the island’s highest and lowest points, which lends itself well to sports that require serious elevation changes, like mountain biking. In fact, it’s world-renowned within the mountain bike community, especially because companies can drive mountain bikers to the top, allowing them to shuttle multiple 5,000-foot-plus laps in one day.
Of course, significant elevation changes also lend themselves well to more unique sports, like canyoning or canyoneering (hiking, jumping, climbing, and swimming through waterfall canyons) and cliff jumping (called “coastering”), both of which are available for beginners or advanced travelers. Companies like Epic Madeira offer tours that include guiding, gear, and pick up from most Funchal-area hotels.
Photo: Suzie Dundas
If you’d rather stay on the ground, plan a trip based around exploring Madeira’s hiking trails. You could spend multiple weeks exploring the island on foot. There are nearly 3,000 kilometers (1,864 miles) of levada trails (trails running along historic irrigation channels, usually through lush forests and along waterfalls) and dozens of vereda trails, which are usually cliffside with stunning ocean views. Many of the veredas are on old roads used by villagers before roads connected the island’s small towns.
The bananas are different (and banned in the rest Europe)
Bananas from Madeira are smaller and generally sweeter than their longer counterparts. Photo: A. Storm Photography/Shutterstock
Madeirans have been making wine for ages, but in the late 1800s, a widespread pest invasion destroyed most of the island’s crops (grapes included). So to quickly rebuild the island’s food supply and economy, Madeirans leaned into something else: bananas. Bananas from Madeira grow quickly; a single plant can produce an entire bunch of bananas within a year.
Most bananas grown on Madeira are the Dwarf Cavendish subspecies, and because they grow quickly, their final size is relatively small — about half the size of a “standard” banana. This makes them sweeter, but it also means they can’t be exported outside of Portugal. There’s a European Union law that says bananas shipped within the EU have to meet specific standards for length, shape, and color, which Madeiran bananas don’t. So if you want to enjoy a Madeiran banana, go to Madeira, or buy one imported from the island in Portugal. And be sure to try all the banana desserts you can while in the gourmet restaurants around Funchal.
More like thisAdventure TravelThese Wild Basket Rides Are the Best Way To Fly Through Traffic in Madeira
Top Hot Springs, Arkansas, Airbnbs Near Downtown and Lake Hamilton
Cast yourself away to Hot Springs, Arkansas, and you can take your pick from no less than eight thermal bath houses without stepping out of downtown. A short drive out of the city and you’ll be in the clutches of the Hot Springs National Park, the Ouachita National Forest, and the banks of Lake Hamilton. Not forgetting the mandatory day trip to Magic Springs where rides vary from soothing to scary. All these spots are within easy reach of the best Hot Springs Airbnbs.
Traveling through Arkansas? Check out Matador’s Arkansas accommodations guides:
11 Fayetteville, Arkansas, Airbnbs for the most convenient stay in the city Airbnb’s most wish-listed properties in all 50 states
We hope you love the Airbnb Hot Springs vacation rentals 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.
Treehouse Airbnbs in Hot Springs, ArkansasAirbnbs in downtown Hot Springs, ArkansasAirbnb cabins in Hot Springs, ArkansasAirbnbs in Hot Springs, Arkansas, on Lake HamiltonTreehouse Airbnbs in Hot Springs, ArkansasDeer Run Treehouse
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Sleep among the foliage at this Hot Springs, Arkansas, treehouse Airbnb kitted out with an artisanal bed, decadent linens, and a full kitchen. The private balcony is fitted with a swing, grill, and hot tub overlooking the forest. Deer Run is one of six units managed by Hot Springs Treehouses. If your dates are unavailable, cast an eye over the rest of the portfolio. As the most luxurious in the collection, this one features an antique French door and extra space.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $312 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Capone’s Loft fuses the pizzazz of the glamorous 1920s with modern lifestyle touches. Exposed brick and pipework throughout the communal and sleeping areas achieve that seriously chic Brooklyn vibe. The centerpiece of the interior is the pool table, complemented by the fully-functional beer tower while the larger of the two balconies is fitted with a grill. This Airbnb downtown Hot Springs, AR, is within walking distance of Bathhouse Row.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $455 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Gorgeously restored, this creekside ranch-style Airbnb is on the cusp of the national park. The property is encircled by woodlands and enjoys a private lawn with direct access to the stream. Spread over one floor, the open-concept lounge features shiplap walls, hardwood flooring, and an original barn door leading into the master suite. A whirlpool bath and sumptuous couches by the fire with external views round off this homely yet luxurious Airbnb in Hot Springs Arkansas.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $225 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Potentially the kookiest vacation home in the entire state, this Airbnb in downtown Hot Springs comes with a resident cat so you’ll need to be chill with sharing the space. Built in the 19th century, the property has previously been used as a spa and a brothel. Boojie interiors are awash with velvet, burlesque art, and a theatrical dressing room. Perfect for eclectic tastes: and friends of felines.
Four guests two bedrooms
Price: $179 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This one-of-a-kind cabin merges yurt elements to create an unforgettable Airbnb Hot Springs experience. Spread over two levels, the property has an upper-level balcony plus a spacious desk equipped with a hot tub and a multitude of seating options. On the way down toward the private pier, you’ll find a fire pit and grill area. You’re welcome to bring your own boat and dock it in the slip.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $213 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Combine your detox getaway with a night or two at this Airbnb farmyard cabin in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The cabin sits apart from the main buildings of the premises but you are welcome to roam the compound and befriend the resident pigs, goats, and geese. Modestly proportioned interiors include a fully-equipped kitchen and a bathroom with a tub. However, the terrace with a hot tub for your exclusive use is the highlight of this farm stay.
Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $155 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Once you clock the views from this mountainside vacation home, you’ll struggle to pull yourself down into town! A generously-sized lounge is eaten up with a plush wraparound couch and a wood-burning fireplace. Congregate at the breakfast bar before stepping out onto the deck for a second mug of coffee fresh from the drip machine. A woody bathroom and loft bedrooms complete the coziness.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $142 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Bursting with collectibles and antiques, this waterfront Hot Springs Airbnb with a pool will charm whimsical explorers who love a mix of old and new. The old-worldly primary bathroom comes with a jetted tub while the TV tucks discreetly behind the library cabinet when you’re in the mood to disconnect. Fix a drink at the tavern-style bar over a game of snooker, and, after a dip in the pool, light up the fire pit and dig out the s’mores.
Sixteen guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,220 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Fifteen minutes from downtown, this Airbnb in Hot Springs is on Lake Hamilton and is split equally across indoor and outdoor living. Interiors of the two-story converted shipping container are flooded with light courtesy of panoramic windows while a swinging daybed and pair of hammocks will lull you into an afternoon siesta. The decks are suitable for dining, sunbathing, and practicing sports.
Ten guests, three bedrooms
Price: $458 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This lakefront Airbnb in Hot Springs, Arkansas, with a hot tub and games room comes ready with all the entertainment you could possibly need. In addition to four double bedrooms, you’ll find a bunk room where the kids can have a slumber party. A covered patio overlooks the tranquil western half of Lake Hamilton where you can launch your own boat or borrow the provided kayaks and paddle boards.
Fourteen guests, five bedrooms
Price: $760 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This brand new Hot Springs Airbnb with a pool is a contemporary paradise complete with oversized bedrooms, a games room, and an outdoor movie den. In addition to the pool, the yard is rigged with a hot tub, splash pad, and mini golf course. Plus, you can dock up to three boats in the property slip. After whipping up a meal in either kitchen – the home has a traditional and an external unit – spend an evening around the fire pit beneath the stars.
Sixteen guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,052 per night
The 7 Best Places To Get Coffee in Seattle That Aren’t Starbucks
Seattle takes its coffee culture seriously. Often described as the coffee capital of the United States, the coffee houses in Seattle leave nothing on the table when it comes to brewing up a gourmet coffee. And while Starbucks did have its start in Seattle, there are so many other Seattle coffee shops to try during your trip to the Emerald City – that might even have better coffee than Starbucks, no matter how iconic its become all over the world (there’s even a Starbucks in Italy now).
The booming coffee culture in Seattle is, in part, due to the often overcast, rainy conditions that settle over the city for the majority of the year. However, the weather isn’t the only thing that helped establish Seattle as the hub for coffee enthusiasts across the country.
The emergence of counterculture movements during the 1960s and 1970s also aided in the growing popularity of what we’ve come to know as the modern day coffee shop–a gathering place where people can collaborate, work, or unwind while sipping a caffeinated beverage.
The presence of Starbucks also inspired waves of local roasters and coffeehouses to materialize throughout the greater Seattle area. These shops and cafes aimed to create something that the larger Starbucks chain couldn’t quite tap into as it continued to expand its reach: a sense of locality and community, as well as high-quality coffee beverages crafted with immaculate attention to detail. As a result, Washington is one of the most expensive states in the country to buy a cup of coffee, but the high price tag is worth it.
From drip-coffee to specialty lattes and everything in between, the Seattle coffee scene has something that will appeal to every coffee drinker. Whether you’re looking for a cappuccino on the go, or a quiet spot to sip a latte and read a book, this list will help guide you toward finding the right coffee shop for your taste and interests. Skip the Starbucks and sip local.
These are seven of the best Seattle coffee shops that aren’t Starbucks to try on your next visit, along with where to find them and what to order.
Seattle coffee shops everyone should try1. Espresso Vivace
Photo: Espresso Vivace
Espresso Vivace is a Seattle-area staple. The flagship cafe is located on Capitol Hill, though there are two other locations around the city where you can indulge in delicious espresso-based beverages. Espresso Vivace’s co-founder, David Schomer, is known far and wide for his impact on the gourmet coffee industry. This spot is a must-try for any coffee aficionado visiting Seattle.
What to order: Caffe caramel
Where: Flagship Location on Capitol Hill – 532 Broadway Ave East, Seattle, WA, 98102
2. Monorail EspressoView this post on InstagramA post shared by MONORAIL ESPRESSO (@monorailespresso)
Another craze in Seattle is the espresso cart, and Monorail Espresso exemplifies all of the best things about this method of serving up caffeinated beverages. Monorail Espresso is credited with kicking off the Seattle coffee cart frenzy in the 1980s. The original cart concept has since transitioned into a walk-up window joint, but the espresso pulls served up at Monorail continue to attract visitors and locals alike.
What to order: Macchiato or white mocha
Where: Famous Pike Street Walk-Up Window – 510 Pike St, Seattle, WA, 98101
3. Fulcrum CoffeePhoto: Fulcrum coffee
For a delicious specialty coffee, look no further than Fulcrum Coffee. This bright, minimalist cafe is located in Seattle’s Belltown neighborhood, not too far from the famed Space Needle. The single-origin coffee is flavorful, but their specialty coffee drinks are part of what makes the menu so popular.
What to order: Cappuccino or any seasonal signature beverage
Where: 590 Bell St, Seattle, WA, 98121
4. Elm Coffee RoastersView this post on InstagramA post shared by Elm Coffee Roasters (@elmcoffeeroasters)
In historic Pioneer Square, you can sip on coffee roasted in-house at Elm Coffee Roasters. Visitors can stop by on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays to see the coffee bean roasting process in action. Elm Coffee Roasters also offers cupping and brewing classes in-house.
What to order: Drip coffee
Where: 240 2nd Avenue South Seattle, WA, 98104
5. Caffe VitaView this post on InstagramA post shared by Caffe Vita (@caffevita)
With 5 cafe locations around Seattle, Caffe Vita is one of the most popular coffee spots in the Emerald City. Coffee creates a sense of community, and Caffe Vita taps into this ethos with comforting blends and inviting cafe interiors. The newest location, Vita at KEXP, is located near Seattle Center.
What to order: Cortado
Where: Flagship location – 005 E Pike Street, Seattle, WA, 98122
6. Fonté CaféView this post on InstagramA post shared by Fonté Coffee Roaster (@fontecoffee)
If you’re in the Pike Place Market area or visiting the Seattle Art Museum, don’t miss out on a latte from Fonté on 1st Avenue. Menu offerings include the Aztec Mocha, Desert Rose Latte, and Sage Latte, among other craft coffee and espresso-based beverages. The cafe also has breakfast, lunch, brunch, and grab-and-go options, making it the perfect spot to grab a brew and a bite.
What to order: Maple cinnamon latte
Where: 1321 1st Ave, Seattle, WA, 98101
7. Anchorhead Coffee
Photo: Anchorhead Coffee
Anchorhead’s first cafe opened in Seattle in 2016, and they’ve built a loyal customer base amongst the local coffee community. Since the first cafe opened, two more Anchorhead cafes have opened throughout Seattle, as well as one in neighboring Bellevue and Nashville, TN.
What to order: Honey Bunches of Cold Brew
Where: Flagship Cafe – CenturyLink Plaza, 1600 7th Ave. Suite 105, Seattle, WA, 98101
In Ogden, a Hilton Hotel Mash-Up Serves as the Perfect Basecamp for Adventure
Hilton’s first new brand offerings in this millennium, Tru by Hilton (founded in 2016) and Home2 Suites (founded in 2009) represent an attempt at contemporary coolness by the established hotel operator. They target people who travel often as a part of a modern lifestyle and who want well-trimmed accommodations without having to shell out a month’s worth of expendable income for it. In Ogden, Utah, Tru and Home2 come together for a co-branded approach that brings the hip business crowd of Home2 together with the millennial audience of Tru by Hilton.
I spent a few nights in the Tru by Hilton/Home2 Suites Ogden in early September and found the property to be efficient both in accommodation and location. Ogden’s Tru/Home2 mashup is a chain hotel property that you actually want to spend time at, rather than crash out and leave first thing in the morning, stopping only long enough to fill up your coffee mug on the way out the door. The result is a property that is, even if unintentionally, perfect for the modern remote worker.
We hope you love the Tru By Hilton Ogden! 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.
Room to spread out and be productive
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Charging outlets are everywhere from the bench seats in the breakfast room to the pool table and dedicated work booths in the lobby’s lounge area. My room on the hotel’s Tru side had chargers on both sides of both queen beds. Neither my laptop nor my phone were ever far from a zap of juice during our stay.
The lounge area resembles a modern coworking space, as it’s designed both for productivity and social connection. Three dedicated work desks enclosed in a half-capsule and with padded bench seats make for a perfect place to pop open the laptop over morning coffee. The desks also provide enough privacy that taking a call doesn’t leave you feeling like you’re distracting the entire room. Couches and lounge seating are also available, and, of course, the aforementioned pool table. This being Utah, no beer is sold on premises, but if you arrive prepared, the fire pit area outside makes for an excellent happy hour or nightcap spot.
An inspiring place to stay fit on the road
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
My favorite part about the Tru by Hilton/Home2Suites Ogden was its gym. As someone who regularly travels for work, I’ve spent plenty of time in dimly lit, cramped hotel gyms that would have been better purposed as a storage closet for the housekeeping staff (and likely once were). The gym here is quite the opposite. Lined on two sides with expansive bay windows looking out to the city, there’s not a single dark corner in the room. There’s a free-weight area with dumbbells on one side, machine weights on the other, and treadmills along the windows. Only one exercise bike was available, but I never had to wait for it. Modern pop played clearly but not annoyingly loud over the stereo. The ambiance resembled that of a hip, downtown big city gym catering to the office crowd, which in a way is its intended user base, though a relocated one.
The indoor pool and hot tub are open year-round, and while the pool certainly isn’t Olympic-sized, it’s big enough to get morning laps or play with the kids in with the bonus of, at least while we were there, never having more than a handful of people using it at once. Sliding into a hot tub after a long hike is one of life’s greatest pleasures, and I was glad I didn’t have to share the experience with a random family from Boston or Bridgeport.
Location and efficiency win the day
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
There’s no more convenient location in Ogden. Lindquist Field, home of the single-A Pioneer League’s Ogden Raptors, is right across the street. Historic 25th Street, lined with Ogden’s best restaurants, pubs, and nightlife, is a block away. We were in town to hit the area’s famous hiking trails, and multiple trailheads, including the 22nd and 29th Street Trailheads as well as the popular Coldwater Springs Canyon Trailhead, are just a few minutes’ drive away. For skiers and snowboarders, Snowbasin Resort is only 30 minutes from the hotel.
Onsite, small sustainability efforts are apparent throughout the hotel. The bath in our room featured wasteless toiletries. Porcelain mugs are on offer at breakfast and throughout the day at the coffee station. A water bottle filling station is located right outside the gym.
Our room at Tru was basic but well-trimmed and efficient. A clothes rack was available in lieu of a closet — fine for most short hotel stays. A work desk provided a productive space in the room, adjacent to the TV. The room overlooked the baseball stadium and was well-lit by both natural light and LED lamps. Laundry is available onsite, and the lobby has an extensive snack bar open 24 hours. The Temper Healy beds were comfortable and plush, topped with sheets and a warm comforter that kept me warm even though my wife, Alisha, prefers to sleep in a cool — some might say chilled — environment.
With a hot breakfast including omelets, roasted potatoes, and both waffles and pancakes available, the hotel “wins at breakfast,” as Alisha put it. I love a good bagel, and these were aplenty. There wasn’t much on offer for our infant daughter beyond a few bites of our meals, as the yogurt pouches and cereal available were stuffed full of sugar. But we filled up each morning on eggs, potatoes, and fruit before hitting the trail.
In the ongoing battle between hotel brands and short-term rental platforms, the inevitable winner is the traveler, and Tru by Hilton/Home2Suites Ogden is proof of this.
Best ski resorts for gay ski week
The dates of Gay Ski Week vary by resort, but one thing is consistent across the board — the word “ski” is used very loosely in practice. You can hop on one or two planks and hit the mountain as much as you wish — there’s always a group of diehards ready to hike the bowl if that’s what you’re into — but the real action begins with the après-ski scene around 3:00 PM and stretches deep into the evening. Parties last anywhere from a few days to a full week, but you’ll learn on night one why dancing, drag, and fine dining are better at altitude. Here’s everything you need to know about the best gay ski weeks in 2023.
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.
Aspen Gay Ski Week
Photo: Aspen Gay Ski Week<
Aspen is the anchor of the Gay Ski Week concept, hosting its annual week-long ticketed event since 1977. Don’t show up unless you’re ready for a full-on throwdown. The event is a three-way mashup of a festival, conference, and drag party, complete with an opening cocktail reception at the W Aspen and town-wide decor that would make the artists of San Francisco’s Castro District proud.
Photo: Aspen Gay Ski Week<
The event offers guided on-mountain tours of Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Snowmass throughout the week, nightly dinners, and après-ski events, but what you really come for is the parties. The legendary AGSW Downhill Costume Contest takes place on January 20, and there are dance parties and after-hours events daily.
When: January 15 – 22
Where to stay: The five-star Little Nell ski-in / ski-out hotel, or the environmentally conscious and centrally located Limelight hotel.
Utah Gay Ski Week, Park City, Utah
Photo: Elevation Utah<
Elevation Utah heads to Park City to throw the best LGBTQ+ party in the state each February, a long weekend that is at once both raging and fantastically quaint. Park City is the epitome of everything a ski town should be: chalet-style lodging that almost convinces you that you’re in Switzerland, fine-dining establishments set in buildings that look like they used to be a schoolhouse, a bus that drops you right at the slopes, and, even in Utah, a baller après-ski scene.
The one party you absolutely cannot miss is called Glow Ho. On Friday night, don whatever neon and reflective gear you have and hit the dance floor at Cabin Nightclub & Lounge. The night after is the infamous GEAR party. A VIP Weekend Pass runs just $300, and you’ll save 25-30 percent off that price if you live in Utah. You can also buy individual event passes. Utah Gay Ski Week grew popular enough that Elevation now hosts additional Gay Ski Week parties in Mammoth Lakes, CA, (March 15 – 19) and Tremblant, Quebec, (2023 dates to be confirmed) should one of those locations be more to your liking.
When: February 24 — 26
Where to stay: The official host hotel, Sheraton Park City is your best bet to be in the center of the action. But they will book up fast, if not already.
Telluride Gay Ski Week, Telluride, Colorado
Photo: Telluride Gay Ski Week<
Aspen gets all the glamour. Not only is the town the spitting image of all things expensive and chic, but it also gets the cheesy movies, the iconic writers, and lest we forget, the most notorious gay ski week. It may not seem fair, but don’t go booking that private jet just yet.
There’s a small town down in southern Colorado where you can dress up just as provocatively, play just as hard, and spend at least as much money for accommodations. That town is Telluride, which knows how to throw a killer party now and then. Plus, the on-mountain experience is better than Aspen’s, proven beyond a doubt by the selfie you’re bound to take as you ski right by Oprah’s mountain home.
Photo: Telluride Gay Ski Week<
Telluride Gay Ski Week 2023 is coming back to us this year with new owner and producer, SBG Productions. Expect a week full of events, happy hours, meet-ups, live music, a pool party, and heaps of time to explore Telluride Ski Resort.
When: February 25 — March 4
Where to stay: Mountain Lodge is a luxury condominium property with studio units, two and three bedroom condominiums, and luxury private cabins. Another great option is The Peaks Resort & Spa which has ski-in / ski-out access and award-winning dining and spa facilities.
Whistler Pride and Ski Festival, Whistler, BC, Canada
Photo: Whistler Pride and Ski Week<
Whoever said “everything is bigger in Texas” clearly hasn’t been to Whistler. Whistler Blackcomb has over 8,000 skiable acres, making it North America’s largest ski area, and the parties in the three villages that make up the resort’s extensive base area are equally as huge.
Whistler Pride and Ski Festival, the town’s annual pride event, takes over the village each January. 2023 is going to be a huge year for the festival, as they celebrate with 30th anniversary — all be it a year late. The guided ski and snowboard groups, alternating between Whistler and Blackcomb daily and you’ll have your pick of parties. Details about the Comedy Night and the main event, the Saturday closing party, are still to be announced. But rest assured they won’t disappoint.
When: January 22 — 29
Where to stay: Book at the Aava Whistler Hotel, the event’s official partner accommodation, and you’ll receive $200 off your festival pass.
Arosa Gay Ski Week, Arosa, Switzerland
Photo: Arosa Gay Ski Week
Arosa basically pioneered the gay ski week concept before there was even a label for it. Its location in Eastern Switzerland is more than worth the trip because the resort is hands down the world’s most gay-friendly ski area. The flag flies here all season, literally, not just in January — so if you’re a skier looking for the right time to make a jaunt overseas, this might just be the moment.
Arosa Gay Ski Week is not only a celebration but also a full-on right of passage for Europe’s gay skiing community. The fact that you’re partying above the treeline with the Weisshorn and Rothorn in the background only amplifies the awesomeness.
A top-tier pass runs about $270 and offers access to the schedule of parties, demos, and private get-togethers throughout the week. The event is known for its disco parties but also allows for plenty of time to sunbathe in the Tschuggen hut, relax over cocktails in the base area, play a game of ice hockey, and maybe even get some skiing in.
When: January 21 — 28
Where to stay: The festival lists a huge range of accommodation options from the five star Kulm & Alpine Spa, stunning self-catering apartments, to more affordable three-star hotels such as the Alpensonne hotel.
September 28, 2022
Hurricane Ian Is so Strong It Pulled the Water Out of Tampa Bay
Hurricane Ian has made its way to Florida, and this Category 4 storm is projected to make its way up to North Carolina by Friday, according to the National Hurricane Center. While strong winds and floods get much of the attention during hurricanes, large bodies of water also appear to be sucked bone dry. A woman with the TikTok account @OhNoItsCo posted a video of Tampa Bay looking more like a dried-up reservoir than the massive body of water it usually is.
@ohnoitsco It’s quite literally one of the most ominous things ever#hurricaneian #tampahurricane ♬ original sound – OhNoItsCo
The video is a prime example of a weather phenomenon called negative (or reverse) storm surge. In a regular storm surge high-speed winds push the ocean water onshore, but in negative storm surge, the winds cause the bay to drain. While it might be tempting to catch out an entirely drained bay, officials are warning residents that heading toward the bay is dangerous. The water returns quickly in the span of hours, making it extremely hazardous.
STOP: Do not walk out into receding water in Tampa Bay or Charlotte Harbor – the water WILL return through storm surge and poses a life-threatening risk.
— FL Division of Emergency Management (@FLSERT) September 28, 2022
The water actually returns more present than before, with flooding of four to six feet expected in the Tampa Bay area.
A Former Flight Attendant Explains the One Seat She’ll Never Book (It’s Not the Middle)
The debate about the best seat on the airplane rages on. Window seat fans versus aisle seat enthusiasts may be duking it out, but everyone can agree that the middle seat is the last place anyone wants to be. Well, almost everyone. Kat Kamalani, a former flight attendant of six years, is a travel influencer on TikTok that explains the mysteries of flying, like why flight attendants can’t help you place your bag in the overhead bin, why tray tables need to be put away during take-off and landing, and the real reason why flight attendants greet you at takeoff. Recently, she left her fans with a bit of a mystery when she said she only sits in the window seat as her last resort, citing “safety reasons.”
@katkamalaniI will never travel the same again
♬ original sound – Kat Kamalani
Although some of Kamalani’s other tips, like keeping your seatbelt on and making sure you have a bag of essentials in case of lost luggage, make plenty of sense, her choice to avoid the seat with the best views outside the window has plenty of people perplexed, including other flight attendants.
“I was a flight attendant for 14 years… I have never heard of someone being safer in the middle seat,” typed user ramonaquimby5432.
“Interesting, as a former flight attendant I always want the window seat for safety reasons,” user Dogs_Gardening_Music said.
“As an ex flight attendant… I only sit in window seats lmao I’m going to be okay,” rach commented.
While Kamalani doesn’t explain what she means by “safety reasons,” there are a few guesses. One of the main reasons the window seat is tempting is because it offers something to rest against. Unfortunately, the window is a pretty grimy place to lay your head. It’s way better to invest in a good neck pillow than to place your head on a germ petri dish. And although studies have mixed reviews on what seat is safest during a crash (some studies in contradiction with Kamalani saying the aisle is the least safe), common sense is that someone in an aisle or even middle seat will have better odds of moving quickly to the emergency exit in an emergency.
With commercial plane crashes so incredibly rare in the United States, would you be willing to give up your beloved window seat on her advice?
Surf, Sand, and Sun: How To Make the Most of A Trip To Virginia Beach
When you think of surfing hubs, Virginia Beach is probably not the first place that comes to mind. But, for the past 60 years, the resort city has been hosting the longest continually-run surfing competition in the world. Originally known as the Virginia Beach Surfing Carnival, the Coastal Edge East Coast Surfing Championships (ECSC) brings several hundred surfers from around the world to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront to compete for East Coast surfing titles and prizes.
One look at the more than 100,000 people who attend ECSC events (both surfers and non-surfers), and it’s clear that Virginia Beach is a haven for people looking for a vacation where the water meets the sand.
Things to do in Virginia Beach
Photo: Barbara Sauder/Shutterstock
Virginia Beach Boardwalk: This three-mile pedestrian thoroughfare overlooking the Atlantic Ocean is the lifeline of the city. It provides easy access to the major venues, restaurants, and amenities of the oceanfront. The boardwalk also has dedicated bike lanes and several places to rent traditional bikes and Surrey bikes like Cherie’s Bicycle and Blade Rentals. An iconic landmark of the boardwalk is the giant statue of King Neptune, which sits at 31st Street. The statue, which was dedicated to the City of Virginia Beach during the 2005 Neptune Festival, is a common photo op and hang-out spot along with Neptune’s Park, a frequent venue for live music throughout the year.
Croatan Beach: Just south of the boardwalk, this is a popular beach for beginner surfers. Here, you can take your chances on gentler waves or opt for a private lesson with a surfing school like Seth Broudy School of Surf. For a special surfing souvenir or custom surf or standup paddle board, head to Make and Ride Surf Exchange, the East Coast’s only do-it-yourself board factory.
ViBE District: One of the most dynamic parts of the city, the ViBE District is a creative hub where artists, quirky shops, and hip restaurants collide. Every year, the neighborhood canvas becomes even more colorful, as the annual Mural Festival taking place during the ECSC adds to the district’s more than 50 existing murals. The district is also home to the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art and farm-to-table restaurants like Commune, Virginia’s first farmer-owned restaurant. Weekly and monthly events in the district include the Old Beach Farmers Market and the Second Saturday mural tour, but if you miss the monthly mural tour, you can do your own self-guided tour.
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Beachside Social: A 10,000-square-foot facility with shuffleboard, bocce, and board games, as well as fast-casual food and drink. Along the boardwalk, Beach Arcade is the place to stop for a traditional redemption arcade experience with hundreds of new and retro games like Pacman and Donkey Kong.
Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum: For a glimpse into the city’s maritime history, visit where east coast surfing began. Housed in a former life saving station from 1903, the museum contains a vast collection of artifacts, exhibits, and displays pertaining to surfing, shipwrecks, the US Life-Saving Service, and the US Coast Guard. The museum is also said to be one of Virginia Beach’s most haunted places, and regularly hosts Ghost Walk tours during the Halloween season.
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center: With more than 800,000 gallons of fresh and saltwater displays and more than 300 hands-on marine exhibits, a visit to this museum is a wonderful way to get up close and personal to aquatic animals and learn about the marine life of the region.
Where to eat and drink in Virginia BeachView this post on InstagramA post shared by Waterman's Surfside Grille (@watermansvb)
Waterman’s Surfside Grille: The city’s most famous restaurant, this spot is best known for its Orange Crush — a fruity cocktail made with orange-flavored vodka, triple sec, orange juice, and lemon-lime soda. The restaurant also serves tasty seafood dishes like she-crab soup, lobster tails, and crab cakes as well as an amazing Sunday brunch.
Orion’s Roof: An Asian-fusion restaurant with one of the city’s most elegant rooftop settings. Serving dishes like shrimp udon and miso-glazed cod, the restaurant’s pièce de résistance is its sushi. With intriguing selections such as passionfruit hamachi rolls, Peruvian tempura rolls, and a vegetarian roll made with mirin-marinated tomatoes, a meal at Orion’s Roof is sure to be a culinary experience you won’t soon forget.
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Tarnished Truth Distilling Company: Opened in the Cavalier Hotel in 2018, the distillery offers tours of its operations and bourbon tastings in its beautiful cellar. Some of the byproducts of the distillery’s bourbon-making process become ingredients in dishes served at the hotel. Among the whiskey-inspired fare are the bourbon brioche French toast at Becca restaurant and Hunt Room’s smoked chicken lollipops with bourbon chipotle barbecue sauce.
Aloha Snacks: A casual restaurant that evokes the spirit of the Aloha State with contemporary versions of Hawaiian foods like poké, loco moco, Portuguese doughnuts, and, of course, Spam. Chef and owner Jesse Wykle — a past winner of the Food Network show Beat Bobby Flay — chose to open the Hawaiian-style restaurant in part because of the connection to surfing that both Hawaii and Virginia Beach share.
Where to stay in Virginia Beach
Photo: Taryn White
Set along the quieter northern end of the Virginia Beach Boardwalk is an enclave of luxury properties known as the Cavalier Resort. The complex features the Historic Cavalier Hotel, Marriott Resort Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and a future Embassy Suites Resort. All together, the complex will contain more than 500 luxury rooms and suites and nine dining options ranging from Mexican-inspired beach bites to traditional American fare. In addition to luxurious accommodations, guests of each property can enjoy semi-private beach access and complimentary folding beach chairs.
Getting around
Photo: Taryn White
Despite some regional traffic woes, getting around Virginia Beach is relatively simple. Drivers to the city will find ample public parking locations near the oceanfront and can use mobile apps like the PassportParking app to pay parking fares.
Hampton Road Transit also operates a low-cost fixed-route bus services as well as seasonal bus service along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront via the Wave Trolley and Bayfront Shuttle. These routes allow convenient access to the major attractions of the city.
An innovative new transit option is the “Freebee,” an eco-friendly, on-demand public transit pilot program funded by the City of Virginia Beach that offers free rides in all-electric Tesla Model X vehicles within the resort area. With a few clicks in the Freebee app, users can request door-to-door rides between 11 AM and 11 PM.
These Airbnbs in St. Louis Put You Near Downtown, Benton Hill, Forest Park, and The Hill
Baseball, outdoor recreation, and a cracking music scene collide in St. Louis, Missouri, making it one of the top US cities for groups with mixed tastes and a great place for a Midwest road trip. Downtown is packed with breweries and restaurants where you can get your fix of the signature toasted ravioli. Burn off your energy at Forest Park and get your adrenaline fix at one of the earliest Six Flags in the country. Each is easily accessible from these St. Louis Airbnbs.
We hope you love the Airbnb vacation rentals 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.
Downtown St Louis AirbnbsTop-rated Benton Park Airbnbs in St LouisAirbnbs near Forest Park in St LouisSt. Louis Airbnbs near Six FlagsDowntown St Louis AirbnbsUnique and fun downtown loft with soccer stadium view
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Brand new for fall, this industrial-style downtown St. Louis Airbnb loft with tons of sunlight overlooks the MLS Soccer Stadium. Aimed at larger parties, the apartment features an epic games room with a billiards table and four arcade games. Whip up your own cocktails at the bar and rally the gang for a spot of light competition after a day of exploring the sights.
Fourteen guests, three bedrooms
Price: $273 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
There’s nothing Boe-ing about this St. Louis Airbnb penthouse, roosting on the entire top floor of a historic building once used as a gas station. Furnished with aviation relics and vintage light fittings, the gallery exhibits art from local artists and is changed periodically. Perfect for social butterflies, the kitchen island runs over 20 feet in length and is rigged with Viking Pro appliances and a wine cooler.
Ten guests, two bedrooms
Price: $503 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This Airbnb in downtown St. Louis puts you a stone’s throw from Soulard’s best restaurants and nightlife. Accented with soft dusky hues and a splash of gold, the classy salon links to the upper floor with an antique spiral staircase. There are two private terraces: one is ideal for reading and meditating while the other is set up with a grill.
Ten guests, three bedrooms
Price: $301 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Steps from the top museums and downtown attractions, this pet-friendly St. Louis loft is topped with a roof terrace with panoramic views. Huddle around the fire pit at night and experience how the city transforms after hours. Inside, you’ll enjoy a light and airy open-concept living space with a foosball table, board games, and a TV with Disney+ and Netflix.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $109 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This designer-standard Airbnb in St. Louis has a hot tub and is lavishly decorated with elegant wallpaper and a moody color palette. The lounge spills into a modern kitchen complete with a state-of-the-art coffee station while the master bedroom is fit for royalty with a king-size upholstered bed. A fully fenced backyard is the final jewel, topped off with a private spa tub.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $257 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Step inside this kooky bungalow near Carondelet Park and you’ll receive a warm welcome with whimsical decor and boutique furnishings. This stylish Airbnb with a hot tub lets you gaze up at the night sky while bubbling in the water. There’s a handy outdoor shower and heaps of space to run around in the contained yard.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $162 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Sited a five-minute drive to Forest Park and ten minutes into downtown, this Airbnb in St. Louis County has a pool and spa, and is perfect if you’re after a balance of green and urban. Conceived for contemporary travelers, the townhouse is kitted out with all the mod-cons you need for a stress-free vacation. The swim space is heated year-round and surrounded by ample sun loungers.
Seven guests, three bedrooms
Price: $328 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Party like Gatsby (within reason – parties are technically off limits) at this luxury Airbnb near Forest Park. The penthouse is faithful to its original Art Deco style but modernized with all the necessary creature comforts. Rooms are lit with ambient chandeliers and outfitted with kitsch statues and extensive artwork. Uncork a bottle of fizz and spend your stay flitting between the sun terrace and the sumptuous couches.
Ten guests, three bedrooms
Price: $689 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
With a facade resembling a holiday card and wholesome interiors, this St. Louis County Airbnb with a pool is a top pick for families. A security railing secures the swim unit while the entire yard is fully fenced for added safety. The playset adds another layer of fun for the younger members of your clan and there’s no better place to unwind with a brew or glass of wine than the elevated porch. Convenient for all the major attractions and the best Italian dining in the state at The Hill.
Ten guests, five bedrooms
Price: $300 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Fifteen minutes from the amusement park, this four-bedroom Airbnb near Six Flags comes with an expansive lawn and is bordered by forest. Besides the central lounge space with high ceilings and a fireplace, you’ll find a snug den with a TV affixed to the master suite. There’s a jetted tub in the bathroom and a chef’s kitchen for cooking up a storm.
Seven guests, four bedrooms
Price: $380 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This pet-friendly cottage is well-positioned for seeing the best of St. Louis County as well as the city’s highlights. Immaculately put together with high-quality moveables and plush upholstery, the home is charming and homely. Channel the Blues with the ice hockey foosball table and keep on top of your emails courtesy of the old-school writing desk.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $285 per night
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