Matador Network's Blog, page 400
September 28, 2022
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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
8 Waterfalls Near Seattle To See The True Beauty of the Pacific Northwest
Seattle may well be the most outdoorsy metropolis in the US. It’s a green, hilly, and lush city backing to forested mountains chock-full of alpine lakes and waterfalls. In fact, some people say the waterfalls are what gave the Cascade Mountains their name.
And while plenty of Seattleites don’t consider it a proper weekend if it hasn’t included a full-day hike, none of these waterfalls require miles and miles of hiking to reach. In fact, some require no hiking at all. So whether travelers want to snap a few early morning photos of mist rising off the forest or want to make a full day of chasing waterfalls, the city probably has an excellent place to go.
These are the best waterfalls near Seattle for travelers and locals alike, all of which are doable in a day from downtown.
Twin Falls
Photo: Danita Delemont/Shutterstock
Where: Olallie State ParkHeight: 230 feetHiking distance: 2.6 miles round-tripTwin Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls near Seattle and one of the most popular hikes near Seattle as it clocks in at about 40 minutes from downtown. It’s also one of the shortest hikes near the city, which makes it one of the more crowded. So to beat the PNW crowds, do like the locals and wake up early. That ensures the best chance at snagging a parking space and offers an opportunity to see the falls in the morning light.
The trail starts from the Twin Falls trailhead parking lot in Olallie State Park, with a $10 parking fee. It’s a roughly 45-minute hike to the upper falls with many ups and downs.
Depending on the time of year, the reason for the name “Twin Falls” will be obvious. During periods of heavy snowmelt in spring and early summer, the falls form a “Y,” with two lines of rushing water becoming one. When the water level is low, the Y looks less symmetrical, with much more water flowing on one side. Either way, it’s still a very scenic waterfall. Expect some mud year-round.
Spray Falls
Photo: NPS/C. Roundtree/Public Domain
Where: Mount Rainier National ParkHeight: 354 feetHiking distance: 5.6 miles round-tripThere are plenty of reasons to hike near Mount Rainier, and it’s not just to get a closer look at the 14,410-foot, glacier-topped volcano that dominates Seattle’s southern skyline. Many visitors are drawn by what the massive glaciers create: the park has 470 creeks, five major rivers, and plenty of waterfalls. And they’re some of the most gorgeous waterfalls near Seattle.
Tumbling down more than 350 feet, Spray Falls is the most striking of those waterfalls. From downtown Seattle, it’s a two-hour drive to Mowich Lake, a piercingly blue alpine lake 5,000 feet above sea level outside Mount Rainier National Park. It’s a pleasant, mostly flat hike through new- and old-growth forest before the last half-mile or so, where it’s a set of steep switchbacks to reach the top of Spray Falls. Plan for a picnic either by the falls or back at Mowich Lake. And don’t forget that you’ll need a national park pass or day-entry pass to enter the park.
Narada Falls
Photo: Pierre LaClerc/Shutterstock
Where: Mount Rainier National ParkHeight: 176 feetHiking distance: 2.4 miles round-trip (optional)Mount Rainier National Park is home to dozens of animal species, including black bears, bobcats, red foxes, elk, mountain goats, snowshoe hares, and pikas. In late spring and early summer, the park is also bursting with wildflowers. Add in rushing rivers and huge cliffs, and it’s clear why the national park has become a must-visit for anyone who wants to see waterfalls near Seattle.
Narada Falls is one of the easiest of these waterfalls to visit. The drop totals 176 feet in the form of a 159-foot-tall main fall and a 17-foot-tall sub-fall that plunges into a deep pool. Visitors should park about a mile west of the park entrance at Paradise and hike down from the parking lot to the pool to gaze up at the falls. Note that the trail can be snowy and slippery until early June, so an alternate option is just to walk across the bridge near the parking lot and gaze down at the falls from above, which only takes a minute or two.
Bridal Veil Falls
Photo: AllTrailsJustin Turner
Where: Gold Bar, WAHeight: 100 feetHiking distance: 4.2 miles round-tripNearly 40 waterfalls in the US are named for their apparent resemblance to the soft veils some brides wear during their weddings. The most famous of these is the unmistakable 690-foot-tall Bridal Veil Falls in California’s Yosemite Valley, and the Seattle-area’s Bridal Veil (one of two in Washington State alone) measures a modest 100-feet-high in comparison. But that’s still plenty tall, and the hike to get there would be a delight even without the falls at the end.
In less than 90 minutes, Seattle visitors will arrive at the trailhead for the Serene Lake hike at Mount Index. From there, a roughly two-mile trail leads up to the falls – yes, up. After a gentle uphill climb through a forest of maple and pines, the trail ascends a series of staircases; expect to hear the falls when nearing the top.
While some travelers choose to snap a few photos from the top and quickly head back down, a better plan is to make a longer day of it. Hikers should double back a half-mile to the intersection with the Serene Lake trail, then follow that to the stunning alpine lake flanked by rocky cliffs.
Editor’s note: The trail to Serene Lake is closed as of October 2022 due to wildfire damage.
Franklin FallsPhoto: Kevin Cass/Shutterstock
Where: Snoqualmie Pass, WAHeight: 100 feetHiking distance: 2 miles round-tripVisitors can reach the Franklin Falls trailhead in under an hour from Seattle. From there, it’s a one-mile walk to the 70-foot-tall waterfall, making it one of the best waterfalls near Seattle for children, older hikers, or anyone who feels like having a leisurely day in nature.
Visitors with kids should ensure younger hikers do not get too close to the rushing water. At Franklin Falls, and really, any waterfall, the downstream water flow is deceptively rapid and extremely cold, making a fall very dangerous for anyone, but especially kids. So, even if it looks refreshing, keep your distance – especially during spring and early summer snowmelt.
Teneriffe Falls
Photo: Visit Bellevue, WA
Where: North Bend, WAHeight: 415 feet combinedHiking distance: 5.4 miles round-tripGetting to this waterfall near Seattle involves more than 1,500 feet of elevation gain, but it’s worth the work. The first section starting from the Mount Teneriffe Trailhead (just 40 minutes from Seattle) follows a gentle grade, but the last mile is much steeper.
Teneriffe Falls, named for the river from which it flows, is more like a three-part cascade, with a 225-foot-tall section on top, a partly obscured middle section measuring about 90 feet tall, and another nearly 100-foot-tall section at the bottom, not all of which is visible. Perhaps because it’s hard to appreciate this waterfall’s complete length, no viewing platforms have been built to take it in. The temptation to climb on rocks to get closer may arise, but be careful: they can be extremely slippery year-round.
Wallace Falls
Photo: Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock
Where: Wallace Falls State ParkHeight: 354 feet combinedHiking distance: 4 miles round-tripTravelers may think Wallace Falls State Park is just one fall named “Wallace,” but it’s actually a series of three: an upper, middle, and lower cascade.
The entrance to the state park is about an hour from Seattle and the hike to the falls is relatively easy and flat. From the trailhead, it’s a two-mile hike through dense, moss-covered evergreens, traversing a forest floor filled with ferns and banana slugs, so watch your step if you see them on the trail.
The main trail ends at the middle waterfall, the largest and most spectacular at around 260 feet tall. Hikers who want to avoid much elevation gain should turn around here. But a second steep, half-mile stretch of trail takes energetic visitors to the top, offering a view looking out toward the upper waterfall at 100 feet tall. The scent of pine and mist is a refreshing reward for the climb, thanks to breezes that carry through the canyon.
Snoqualmie Falls
Photo: Pat TR/Shutterstock
Where: Snoqualmie, WAHeight: 268 feetHiking distance: noneTV fans who watched “Twin Peaks” may recognize Snoqualmie Falls. Visitors can drive to the 100-foot-wide waterfall, making it one of the most popular waterfalls near Seattle: as in 1.5-million-annual-visitors popular.
The waterfall might have been even more spectacular if the Snoqualmie River wasn’t dammed in places to provide hydroelectric power. But in certain months the fall’s power is still extremely impressive, with measurements of more than 45,000 cubic feet of water pouring over the lip per second. It’s only 35 minutes from Seattle and there’s parking at the falls lookout, which also has a large gift shop and a lovely park and picnic area.
More like thisOutdoorWashington Has More Waterfalls Than Any Other State. These Are the 9 You Don’t Want To Miss.
Want a Free First Class Upgrade? Flight Attendant Says To Sit in the Last Row
Let’s face it: Sitting in first class when you fly is an out-of-reach luxury for many people. Even if you book the cheapest flights directly through the airline, the price for a seat up front can still be hundreds of dollars higher than one in economy (if not more). But flight attendant and TikTok influencer Cierra Mistt recently revealed a seemingly counterintuitive hack for getting the occasional free upgrade: sit in the very last row.
@cierra_mistttravel tips and tricks i’ve learned as a flight attendant (p. 7)
♬ original sound – Cierra Mistt
According to Mistt, flight attendants are responsible for balancing out the weight on the plane. So if the flight is empty but there’s someone who snagged the very back seat by the bathroom, they’ll need to move them up.
“If we do have to move people for weight and balance purposes, that’s where the flight attendant’s going to go,” Mistt says in the video.
There are, of course, some important caveats here. First off, the plane has to be pretty empty for this to work. Second, there has to be available seats in first class to be moved up to. Third, if there happen to be multiple people in that last row with you, your odds of being moved up shrink. Plus the obvious fact that no one wants to be stuck in the last row on a plane if it ends up being full and no weight distribution switches are needed.
If you’re rather find other, less risky, ways to get comfortable on the plane, some travelers opt for buying blocks of economy seats to create makeshift “sleeper rows” of three. Mistt also noted in previous videos that bringing a chocolate and being kind to the flight attendant will put you in their good graces. When all else fails, there are always those affordable products out there that make economy class more bearable.
The Most Beautiful Beaches in Cartagena for Every Type of Traveler
A fairy-tale castle city of cobblestone streets and pastel-colored cathedrals, Cartagena also happens to be perched right on the edge of the glimmering Caribbean sea. What that means for visitors is that besides all the epic dining, nightlife, and historic sightseeing, a variety of glorious beaches also lie just outside of the historic walls of the city. And while the Cartagena beaches are easy to access, they pale in comparison to the white sands and sapphire waters of Baru, Tierra Bomba, and especially the Rosario Islands, a series of coral reef islands located just a short boat ride away from the Cartagena harbor. These tropical islands add another element of choice when planning a coastal vacation to the region.
These are the most beautiful beaches in Cartagena for every type of traveler, so you can make the most of your precious beach time.
Most romantic beach: Bendita Beach
Photo: Bendita Beach
Tucked under a canopy of trees overlooking crystal clear turquoise waters is Bendita Beach. Also known as Isla Bendita, this private enclave is one of the smallest of the Rosario Islands. In fact, you can walk around the entire thing in 15 minutes.
Bendita Beach has a long bar of white sand that stretches out into the sea, which means the water is shallow enough to play far into the ocean. There’s a romantic beachfront bar serving cocktails, and the onsite restaurant specializes in freshly caught fish served with coconut rice and veggies. Access to the beach is tightly controlled, which makes this one of the most exclusive beaches you can visit in Cartagena.
How to get to Bendita Beach: Bendita Beach is a 45-minute boat ride from Cartagena, and although most tour vendors offer a day trip to the island, you can also book directly from its website and ensure that you have a seat on one of the island’s own fleet of high-quality boats. The day trip includes round-trip transportation, lunch at the island restaurant, and the use of all facilities, including the canopy beds.
The island also offers a handful of rustic but luxurious cabanas where you can spend a night or two, but meals must be pre-planned and prices negotiated ahead of time.
Top party beach: Cholon
Photo: AlejandroBermudezVargasShutterstock
The floating bars of Cholon are legendary in Cartagena for its seven-days-a-week drinking parties. These simple thatched-roof huts sit over a sandbar, so guests can sip a coconut filled with rum while being semi-submerged in the shallow, crystal clear ocean.
Cholon is also a popular spot for people to anchor yachts and join the party, which often turns into a pretty wild reggaeton- and liquor-fueled affair. On the beachfront itself, there’s a variety of restaurants for grabbing lunch or snack foods.
How to get to Cholon: The island is a common stop on many beach tours and snorkeling trips on a multi-destination itinerary to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena. Another option, if you plan on visiting nearby Baru, is to pay a local to scoot you over on their boat. This will allow you more time to hang out and get your party on. Or, even better, if you are interested in sailing the islands and have experience, you can charter a yacht for the day from Cartagena harbor.
Best family beach: Gente del Mar
Photo: Gente del Mar
On Isla Grande, the largest of the Rosario Islands, Gente del Mar is a resort complex home to several gorgeous cove-style beaches with powder sugar sands and iridescent blue water.
With volleyball courts, great snorkeling and other water sports to enjoy, this is an excellent beach to bring the little ones to for a safe island escape from the city. If the weather is poor, there’s a video game zone at the resort to keep the kids occupied. The onsite restaurant serves an extensive menu including the house special ceviche and kid-friendly items like pizza and chicken tenders.
How to get to Gente del Mar: Gente del Mar operates its own day tour from the Cartagena harbor that includes the use of all resort facilities, as well as a three-course lunch and a welcome cocktail. But it’s also a great place to chill out for a couple of days with your loved ones. The onsite hotel offers a variety of options, including a family suite that sleeps five and opens onto the garden grounds.
Best budget beach paradise: Playa Blanca
Photo: Jess KraftShutterstock
The most popular and economical beach tour from Cartagena takes visitors to Baru, home to the long swath of gorgeous white sand known as Playa Blanca. This beach is popular with locals and visitors alike. Although the water is not as clear as it is out on the Rosario Islands, it has a beautiful turquoise blue Caribbean hue to it that is absent on the urban coastline.
How to get to Playa Blanca: Because there’s a simple bridge connecting Baru to the mainland, you can get to Playa Blanca by bus tour. An organized trip takes around 1.5 hours each way and includes a simple lunch at one of the many local restaurants that line the beach. While it is also possible to visit Playa Blanca on your own, the journey on public transport requires several transfers and is not worth it unless you plan on spending more than a day on Baru. Many of the local restaurants rent beachfront rooms for much cheaper than you will find on the Rosario Islands. Also at the far end of the beach, known as Playa Tranquilo, there’s Cartagena’s famous Media Luna Hostel where you can grab a cheap dorm bed right on the white sand.
Most chilled out beach: Punta ArenaPhoto: Nikita BurdenkovShutterstock
The island of Tierra Bomba is frequently overlooked by visitors to the Cartagena beaches despite it being one of the closest to the city.
The island is home to several outstanding stretches of sand, many with impressive views of the city skyline over the pale blue water. One of the easiest beaches to reach, and the beach with the most services, is Punta Arena. Bars and restaurants line the white sand and service will come right to your beach chair or lounge bed.
How to get to Punta Arena: Punta Arena is a quick 15-minute boat ride from the beach in front of the Bocagrande hospital, a short taxi ride from the Old City, and even closer to the beachfront hotels of Bocagrande. The public section of Punta Arena beach can be busy with both locals and visitors in the know. At the far end of the beach, however, the Namaste Beach Hotel offers chilled-out beach beds and hammocks, which can be a little more peaceful. The hotel also offers well-priced rooms and packages for those that want to kick back for a couple of days.
Best beach for snorkeling: Isla Pirata
Photo: R.M. NunesShutterstock
Another private island in the Rosario chain, Isla Pirata is covered in lush vegetation and surrounded by coral reefs that keep its offshore water calm and clear like a swimming pool. This has made the island a prime destination for those wanting to check out the underwater ecosystem of a Caribbean reef. While the swimming here is good, those that are looking for real beaches to relax and tan on are going to be disappointed as the rocky and pebbly shoreline never breaks into sand.
How to get to Isla Pirate: Snorkeling tours to Isla Pirate run from Cartagena daily and include round trip transport (about 50 mins by boat from the Cartagena harbor), lunch at a seafront restaurant, and use of snorkeling equipment.
Most LGBTQ+-friendly beach: Playa Hollywood
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Located at the far end of the Bocagrande Beach, which stretches west from the Old City, Playa Hollywood is Cartagena’s official adults-only public space. The wide swath of golden sand is popular with partiers and is friendly and safe for all. Like many other city beaches, the water here is far from clear and crystalline, but it is a refreshingly cool way to pass a humid afternoon.
How to get to Playa Hollywood: Playa Hollywood is within walking distance from most of the hotels in Bocagrande and a short taxi ride from the Old City.
Most local beach: La Boquilla
Photo: Colombia Travel/ Rafael Bossio
At the far northeastern point of Cartagena, La Boquilla is a traditional fishing village that has kept much of its charm and local traditions despite the ever-encroaching mega-hotels in whose shadows it now stands. Although it is one of the Cartagena beaches with gray sand, the green-blue water is some of the cleanest in the country and La Boquilla is one of Colombia’s four certified sustainable beaches.
The wide sands host several volleyball courts and impromptu soccer games that you can join in on with locals. La Boquilla is also famous for its many beachfront seafood restaurants where casual plates are based on seafood caught in the morning.
How to get to La Boquilla: Local buses go from the Old City to La Boquilla frequently and stop just outside of the walls of the Via del Mar. There are also several cultural tours from Cartagena to La Boquilla that include a visit to the nearby mangrove forests of La Cienega, where you can enjoy excellent bird watching.
You Can Stay at the Hocus Pocus Cottage in Salem, Massachusetts, This October
The scary frights of Halloween are not for everyone. For some people, curling up on the couch to watch Disney Halloween classics like Halloweentown, Twitches, and, of course, Hocus Pocus is enough scary every year. And now, with the return of Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy in their roles as the Sanderson Sisters in Hocus Pocus 2, there’s something new this Halloween to look forward to. To celebrate, Airbnb is offering guests a chance to stay in the Hocus Pocus cottage for a night to get them in the Halloween spirit.
Two guests will get to stay in the creepy cottage in Salem, Massachusetts, recreated as it looked 300 years ago, for only $31. The stay will take place on October 20, celebrating All Hallows’ Eve. Expect creaky wooden floorboards and cupboards stocked with the blood of owl and herb that’s red. Guests will get to try their luck with the sisters’ ancient spell book and if you’re feeling adventurous, explore Salem’s most haunted properties. And a stay inside this iconic cottage would not be complete without a special screening of Hocus Pocus 2.
“We all know that the Sanderson Sisters’ story might not have ended when we turned to dust, nor did our shenanigans,” said Kathy Najimy, who plays Mary Sanderson in the beloved films, in a statment. “What better way to celebrate the season than to host guests at the trio’s historic haunt for a night they’ll remember for years to come?”
Airbnb will also make a one-time donation to the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem. Guests are responsible for getting to the spooky city — by car, airplane, or broomstick, it’s up to you. With some magic, you might be the lucky person to book this one-time stay. Booking opens on October 12 at 1 PM ET. However, if you aren’t able to nab the memorable stay, you can still enjoy the Sanderson sisters’ return to the present in Hocus Pocus 2, premiering on Disney+ on September 30.
9 underrated honeymoon spots in US
There’s no event that’s more exhausting to plan than a wedding. Whether you’re an obsessive Pinterest user or someone who says they just want to have a backyard party with a few friends, everyone ends up drained by the time the ceremony rolls around. So why make planning a honeymoon a similarly grueling experience? It’s never easy — or cheap — to book a decent room in Cape Cod, Hawai’i, or Aspen, and even if you do manage to snag accommodation at these popular honeymoon spots, the throngs of tourists and other couples will make it impossible to spend quality time with your new spouse. Instead, consider the underrated side of “Honeymoon Destinations, USA” — the best places to honeymoon in the US that you won’t have to share with other newlyweds, starting with these 17 locales from Oregon to Maine.
1. San Juan Islands, Washington
Photo: cpaulfell/Shutterstock
An island getaway doesn’t necessarily equate to palm trees, cocktails, and suntans. Rather than squeezing themselves into a row of lounge chairs on an overrated beach, honeymooners in the San Juans can seek out almost-private coves like those found at Reuben Tarte Memorial Park on San Juan Island. There, they can tan in the summer months or hunt for sculptural pieces of driftwood in the tidal pools year-round. The San Juan Islands Museum of Art, also on San Juan Island, is perhaps the best representation of the prominent local art scene. The museum features indigenous motifs and styles that date back thousands of years, while small shops and studios like Orcas Island Pottery (on Orcas Island) offer an insight to the quirkiness and creativity that defines the community today. Of course, no visit to the San Juans is complete until you witness migrating Orca pods splashing about in the Salish Sea.
2. Telluride, Colorado
Photo: Danica Chang/Shutterstock
While Aspen still holds a special place in the hearts of those who remember the neon pantsuits of the ‘80s, Telluride appeals to those searching for a more small-town, no-frills vibe. Telluride has world-class skiing and snowboarding areas that are repeatedly praised for their accessibility and quality — which is partly thanks to a free gondola that connects the town to its resort area, located smack-dab in the middle of the slopes. Beyond its main attractions, Telluride also has camping, climbing, river sports, and an increasingly popular film festival. Due to its slightly more removed location and underdog status, Telluride has also developed a less pretentious and more “folksy rebel” reputation than resort towns like Whistler or Jackson Hole, as is evidenced by the town’s “Free Box,” where locals regularly drop off and pick up random items left by their neighbors.
3. Bisbee, Arizona
Photo: Chris Curtis/Shutterstock
Ditch Arizona’s high-end golf courses and resorts — they’re too mainstream and busy. Instead, newly married couples who seek solitude and originality should head to Bisbee, a little mining town near the Mexican border that’s filled with artists and other “eccentrics.” The canyon town of weaving streets and Victorian architecture is home to a mix of old saloons, art galleries, antique shops, and haunted hotels along Brewery Ave and Main Street, while the town’s leg-straining public staircases guide visitors to the picturesque hillside neighborhoods. Of course, there are several mine-related adventures for those who love mixing US history with geology, including gem-mining opportunities, a human-made mini-Grand Canyon known as the Lavender Pit, and a 1,500 foot railroad ride into the Copper Queen Mine.
4. Beaufort, South Carolina
Photo: Deborah McCague/Shutterstock
With Charleston constantly being cited as one of the best honeymoon towns in the country, most people don’t think to look a few more miles down the Atlantic seaboard to the significantly less crowded Beaufort, South Carolina. The small town spread across the Sea Islands of South Carolina’s Lowcountry is known for its art festivals and architectural preservation efforts. These efforts have maintained a distinctive collection of antebellum buildings in Beaufort’s central neighborhoods. Beyond the historic sites, visitors to Beaufort can enjoy traditionally romantic carriage rides along Bay Street or more modern adventures such as kayaking and biking on nearby Hunting Island, where they can also find some of the state’s most celebrated beaches if they just want to lounge and swim. As a coastal town, Beaufort is full of southern-style seafood eateries, but there is probably no better time to visit than during the Taste of Beaufort festival for a mix of local seafood, wines, and art.
5. Fairbanks, Alaska
Photo: NotYourAverageBear/Shutterstock
You have to be a pretty bold couple to pick the northernmost US state for a romantic getaway, especially if you’re not itching to summit Mt. Denali. Apart from being the perfect spot for athletic outdoor activities, Fairbanks also has activities that can only be found this close to the arctic circle, such as dog-mushing tours or a stroll through the countryside with a reindeer herd. But honeymooners who want to take it easy might prefer watching the northern lights while soaking in the Chena Hot Springs. While every other place on this list offers stunning scenery, none are quite as remote or as wild as Fairbanks and its surroundings — a perfect choice for couples who want peace and quiet.
6. Portland, Maine
Photo: luisa2506/Shutterstock
Compared with the elite-favored coastal New England destinations of Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod, Portland has a blue-collar vibe without losing the region’s sailing culture or devotion to crustacean dinners. This small and industrious city is filled with breweries and distilleries, including celebrated Belgian-style beer specialist Allagash Brewing Company and up-and-comer Maine Craft Distillery, which produces craft booze of every style from single malt whiskey to barley and botanical spirits. As a 400-year-old New England town, Portland is also home to many traditional lighthouses overlooking rocky coves and white-sand beaches, such as Cape Elizabeth and Portland Head Lighthouse. Imagine taking in the sunset in front of one of those grand beauties, daydreaming about your future together, while watching the lobster boats bobbing about in Casco Bay as they haul in your dinner.
7. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
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If your idea of a perfect honeymoon includes a hike across rough terrain to get to a rustic log cabin that feels eons removed from city life, then load up your rucksack and head for the Appalachian Mountains. This national park is less than an hour from Asheville, another popular honeymoon spot, yet its dramatic location means that you could spend hours hiking to the waterfalls surrounding Clingman’s Dome without bumping into a single soul. If the one-room log cabins in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge are still too close to civilization, you can hop on the Smoky section of the Appalachian Trail in the middle of the park and get down to some backcountry camping — a particular treat when it’s time for fall foliage. For those interested in a more cultural excursion, there are numerous attractions just a short drive away, including the prohibition-era themed Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine Distillery and the Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales Festival. If you really want to celebrate Appalachian culture, the Dolly Parton amusement park, Dollywood, is less than an hour’s drive away.
8. Door County, Wisconsin
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Door County is a sliver of a peninsula jutting into Lake Michigan from Green Bay. It’s home to five state parks, including the kayaker-friendly Cave Point County Park, which has underwater caves and hidden coves along its coastline, and the more rugged and removed , which requires two ferry rides to access. Rock Island is well-known for its collection of isolated beaches separated by winding paths, making it ideal for a romantic camping trip — and affordable vacation — with spectacular stargazing and sunrises over Lake Michigan. Back on the mainland, visitors can tour over half-a-dozen different wineries, breweries, and distilleries scattered across the peninsula, many of which are featured on the Door County Trolley tours. After getting a slight buzz at Harbor Winery and taking in the sunset over Green Bay at Schoolhouse Beach, you can cap off the evening with a bit of high culture at the 83-year-old Peninsula Player’s Theater.
9. Islamorada, Florida
Photo: Romrodphoto/Shutterstock
Like the neighboring Keys, Islamorada has the same mile-long, white-sand beaches dotted with palm trees and beach bars, but without the engulfing day-tripper crowds. Many of the beach bars also serve the very best local seafood. Head to Pierre’s Restaurant at Morada Bay for a heaping of local yellowtail snapper and Florida lobster, or stop by Lorelai’s Cabana Bar for more down-to-earth, Caribbean American dishes like coconut shrimp and lightly-fried conch fritters. Aside from spa treatments at Ciao Bella Salon or Blu Bamboo, honeymooners can also relax with some flat-water snorkeling or paddleboarding in the crisp blue waters of Anne’s Beach. But if you really want to get away from the crowds and enjoy some light canoodling under a beach umbrella, Library Beach is the place to be.
10. Half Moon Bay, California
Photo: MisterStock</Shutterstock
Forty minutes south of San Francisco, Half Moon Bay is often mentioned in the same breath as Carmel-by-the-Sea. Some people tout Carmel’s spot on the Monterrey Peninsula as the more worthwhile stop along the California coast, but for the right kind of honeymooners, Half Moon Bay’s mellow perch on the San Francisco Peninsula is precisely what gives it the edge. Fans of the seaside town are typically found outside — big wave surfing at world-famous Mavericks Beach, hiking or cycling the California Coast Trail, whale-watching at Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park, pitching a tent at Francis Beach for some classic California beach camping. Other visitors come just for the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay. The Ritz is the go-to for ultra-luxury in Half Moon Bay, but the Mill Rose Inn is equally romantic for a quarter of the cost. There’s also a lighthouse hostel at Pigeon Point if you’d rather go rustic and then splurge at Pasta Moon, a destination Italian restaurant in Half Moon Bay for decades.
11. Marfa, Texas
Photo: MisterStock</Shutterstock
Marfa’s art scene put it on the map in recent years, but its location on actual maps certainly helped boost its popularity as a gateway to Big Ben National Park. For a town of roughly 2,000 people, there’s a surprising number of art museums and galleries in this pocket of the Chihuahuan Desert, chief among them being Ballroom Marfa and Chinati, Judd, and Ayn Foundations. Glampers will feel at home at El Cosmico, a funky hotel and campground with your choice of casitas, safari tents, teepees, yurts, and trailers — the perfect place to retire after vibe-y nights out at watering holes like House Bar and Planet Marfa. Before you go to sleep, keep an eye out for the Marfa Lights, a phenomenon tracing back to 1883 that describes the occasional presence of glowing lights in the desert outside of town. There’s an official viewing area off US 90 if you want to take a shot at seeing them, but know there’s no guarantee.
12. Taos, New Mexico
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New Mexico’s signature adobe architecture might be most alluring in Taos, framed by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Rio Grande Gorge slightly northwest of town. Taos Plaza, the anchor of the Downtown Taos Historic District and a stop on the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, drips with art galleries and museums, shops specializing in goods like turquoise jewelry and leatherwork, and Southwestern restaurants where anything you order tasted better with hatch green chiles. But the city’s central plaza isn’t its most historic site; that title belongs to Taos Pueblo, an Indigenous community that’s one of the oldest continually inhabited settlements in the county and both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Landmark. After touring, honeymooners can create their own little settlement at El Monte Sagrado or The Blake at Taos Ski Valley, two of the most romantic properties in town.
13. Ogunquit, Maine
Photo: MisterStock</Shutterstock
Southern Maine could be considered one of the best honeymoon destinations in the US for anyone, but Ogunquit holds particular appeal for LGBTQ+ newlyweds. Maine’s queer capital, the seaside town is full of hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, and galleries run by LGBTQ+ folks — notably Maine Street for all things drag and The Front Porch piano bar for dinner and a show. Ogunquit’s universal appeal centers on its namesake beach and Marginal Way, a mile-long-plus coastal trail that shows off the town’s best side. Continue up the coast and you’ll soon hit the Kennebunks — the wealthy towns of Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, and Arundel — where some of the historic waterfront estates that the trio is known for have opened their doors to guests.
14. Neskowin, Oregon
Photo: MisterStock</Shutterstock
You may not have heard of Neskowin, Oregon, but you’re probably familiar with the county where it’s located: Tillamook, home of the famous Tillamook Creamery. But make no mistake, there’s nothing cheesy about Neskowin — unless you count proposal rock, a sea-stack island on Neskowin Beach where a sea captain is rumored to have proposed to his future wife around the turn of the 20th century. Haystack Rock is another natural landmark that’s popular with visitors; either is an excellent place to for sunset, or a little bit before then at low tide if you like tide-pooling. When you’re not enjoying the Oregon coast — be it touring Depoe Bay, the state’s whaling capital, or golfing at the Neskowin Beach Golf Course — dip a toe in the local brewery scene. Pelican Brewing and Beachcrest Brewing come highly recommended.
15. Moloka’i, Hawai’i
Photo: Lokuttara</Shutterstock
To say that Hawai’i is an underrated honeymoon destination sounds laughable. But Moloka’i is seriously neglected — this past July, Oahu clocked 491,052 visitor arrivals, roughly 120 times as much as Moloka’i’s 4,075 arrivals — much to the benefit of couples who want to feel like they have the island to themselves. The fifth-largest Hawaiian Island, Moloka’i has been called many things: the “Friendly Island,” the “Most Hawaiian Island,” and an “outer island” by locals. Much of its charm lies in its easygoing pace, which is moderately ironic considering its adventure potential. Moloka’i plays host to some of the highest sea cliffs in the world and the longest uninterrupted fringing reef in the US. In lieu of sending a postcard describing the beauty of sites like the Kalaupapa Peninsula and Hālawa Valley, swing by the local post office in Ho’olehua before you go to decorate and mail a coconut to your new in-laws.
16. Sun Valley, Idiho
Photo: CSNafzger</Shutterstock
It’s no coincidence that ski resorts often populate lists of the best places to honeymoon in the US. Mountain towns with access to epic slopes are obviously scenic and generally have adorable downtowns packed with tourist amenities. Sun Valley is no exception, though it seems to be more popular for weddings than honeymoons. Ironically, that’s what makes it so great post-nuptials — without the stress of getting hitched, newlyweds actually have a chance to enjoy the romance-ready locale. More than an outdoors hub, Sun Valley has had an artist following since Ernest Hemingway set up camp at the Sun Valley Lodge, the most luxurious digs in the resort town, in 1939. There’s also a Hemingway Memorial on the White Cloud Trail. For something lower, scope out the trail network in the Sawtooth Botanical Garden then stick around for evening events like wine tastings or head toward Frenchman’s Bend for hot springs.
17. Sanibel Island, Florida
Photo: Henryk Sadura</Shutterstock
Florida is an obvious choice for a US honeymoon. It has a tropical climate and 825 miles of sandy beaches, and it’s a lot easier to get to than Hawai’i. What’s less obvious is where to go outside of the Keys. Enter Sanibel Island, a 33-square-mile island located roughly as many miles off the coast of Fort Meyers. Sanibel is famous for its seashells — so much so that the bent-at-the-wait posture donned by shell collectors combing Bowman’s Beach has been coined the “Sanibel Stoop.” The island’s shells are also on display at the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum. Depending on the day, the rest of your downtime can be split between the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildife Refuge, Blind Pass Beach, and Periwinkle Way, the island’s main shop- and restaurant-studded drag. And if you want to see even more of the Gulf of Mexico, drive the causeway from Sanibel to Captiva, a smaller but equally pristine island off Fort Meyers.
What is the number one honeymoon destination in the US?If you’re curious about broader honeymoon trends, you might be interested — but not necessarily surprised — to learn that Hawai’i consistently ranks among the most popular honeymoon destinations anywhere in the world for domestic and international newlyweds alike. Of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu is the most visited, and Maui is the runner-up. According to the website Honeymoon Goals and several other sources, Florida and Las Vegas are the most popular honeymoon destinations in the US after Hawai’i.
How long a honeymoon should last?How long you choose honeymoon for depends on a number of things, from where you’re going to your budget to your schedule. According to the wedding website The Knot, the average honeymoon lasts seven to 12 days. These days, some couples opt to take a short mini-moon immediately after their nuptials while others plan month-long honeymoons several weeks after the fact. But most sources agree that one week is the ideal length for a honeymoon.
September 27, 2022
9 Sedona Airbnbs With Incredible Access To the Outdoors
Head to Red Rock Country to experience the best of Arizona. Take in the scenery, tackle an outdoor adventure of hiking, climbing, or fishing, and have a glass of wine at one of Sedona’s award-winning wineries. Get close to the Arizona desert town with these Airbnb vacation rentals near popular attractions and showcase stunning desert views. Be careful — because you may never want to leave.
Traveling in Arizona? Check out Matador’s Arizona accommodations guides:11 Phoenix Airbnbs With Luxury Pools, Putting Greens and Artsy VibesPhoenix airport hotels that put you close to your flight and the entire cityThese Large, Family-Friendly Airbnbs in the Southwest Make the Perfect Holiday Getaway12 top-rated Airbnbs in Tucson for a charming southwest adventure
We hope you love the Airbnb Sedona 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.
Pet-friendly Airbnbs in SedonaSedona Airbnbs with a pool or hot tubCoolest Airbnbs in SedonaSedona Airbnbs near hiking trails and naturePet-friendly Airbnbs in SedonaThe Sedona Villa
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Bring the whole family together at this spacious Sedona home. This modern home is in the central west Sedona location. This villa features two main living areas, a big backyard with a hot tub, turf, mini golf, BBQ grill, yoga mats, a fire pit, and a glamping bubble to hang out at when you’re in the backyard. If you Want to experience more Sedona, there are parks, hiking trails, shopping areas, and more within walking distance.
Ten guests, three bedrooms
Price: $549 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Check out this relaxing resort-like Airbnb. The updated hacienda-styled home combines vintage and modern throughout the house. This Sedona home features a private pool and hot tub area and has stunning red rocks views that you can see from the front yard and patio area. If you want to get out and explore more, the home is near hiking and biking trails, vortex sites, restaurants, and shopping areas.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $453 per night
Photo: Airbnb
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Take in the gorgeous, breathtaking views at this cozy townhouse in Sedona. This home is a short walk to Uptown Sedona, near top restaurants and shopping. Soak in the gorgeous views through every room or enjoy them up close and personal while relaxing in the hot tub, eating outside, or lounging with a drink in hand is the best way to spend your time here.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $234 per night
Photo: Airbnb
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Stay at this extreme home dome that is a local icon. This large dome is made up of two of the largest and tallest domes in the area, with a total of 2,500 square feet. This dome features a great room, which is the living room with a fireplace, sofa, piano, library, and board games. Enjoy the courtyard with a fire pit while stargazing. Truly immerse yourself while staying at these domes.
Eight guests, two bedrooms
Price: $308 per night
Red Rock Retreat
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Relax at this rustic mid-century-modern home right between Uptown and the Village of Oak Creek. This modern home has an open concept floor plan, and when entering the house, vaulted ceilings and much light are coming in throughout the home. If you want to take the fun outside, sit out and have a drink or dinner on the outdoor patio area that features a dining table, counter space, and multiple seating options.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $353 per night
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This cozy guest suite has everything you need for your Sedona getaway. It consists of an en-suite bathroom, kitchenette, queen-sized bed, and smart tv. Take in the scene as you sit outside and enjoy sunny Sedona.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $134 per night
Photo: Airbnb
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Settle down at this chic Sedona home that has panoramic desert views. This home is an excellent base to explore all things in Arizona, and the house is near hiking trails and Uptown Sedona. Sit out and enjoy the views from the comfort of the private balcony.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $152 per night
Photo: Airbnb
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Bring the whole family together by staying at this historic home. This home is located in the old town of Cottonwood and is within walking distance to downtown shops, restaurants, and wine tasting rooms. Hang out in the spacious outdoor area with a fire pit, relaxing seating, a BBQ grill, and outdoor games.
Twelve guests, five bedrooms
Price: $545 per night
Photo: Airbnb
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Photo: Airbnb
Looking for the perfect accommodation and the ideal place for gatherings, then this serene home is the perfect place. Upon entering this home, you’ll be greeted by a 180-degree view of the Sedona mountains. Don’t worry, though. You won’t miss out on the action because each room gives a gorgeous view. The unique patio area can be accessed from the dining room and is a large deck that overlooks Chavez Crossing, the mountains, and the creek below.
Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $674 per night
This Free App Gets You Through Customs Just as Fast as Global Entry Does
There are few lines that can cause more despair in a traveler’s heart than landing at your home airport and being met with a snaking line to get through customs. That’s especially the case for those of us without Global Entry. But there’s a free app that doesn’t require any background checks that can make that line almost disappear: Mobile Passport Control.
Mobile Passport Control (MPC) is run by Customs and Border Protection and is available to United States citizens and Canadian B1/B2 citizens visitors. All you need is a smartphone and an internet connection, and you can input all of your information through the app to bypass the standard customs line as well as the APC kiosks. Airports have designated lines for MPC users that, in my experience over the past couple of years using it in Denver and New York City, are almost always close to empty.
To use it, download the app ahead of time and create a profile with your photo, passport information, name, gender, date of birth, and country of citizenship. (Note that you’ll need to do this for each member in your family, up to 12 people.) Then, once you land, open the app and click the airport you’re at to answer the customs inspections questions. An encrypted QR code pops up and you bring that to the CBP officer and you’re done.
Compare that to Global Entry, which allows people to go through automatic kiosks at select airports after a diligent background check and in-person interview. Despite the many signs hanging up in airports, the MPC line seems to only be so short because there aren’t many people using it. And until people start to catch on, it’s a great tool to bypass that long customs line and make it home faster.
Where you can use the Mobile Passport Control app:Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL)Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)Dulles International Airport (IAD)Denver International Airport (DEN)Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)Honolulu Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)Houston William P. Hobby International Airport (HOU)John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)Kansas City International Airport (MCI)Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)Miami International Airport (MIA)Miami SeaportMinneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)Montreal Trudeau International Airport (YUL)Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)Oakland International Airport (OAK)Orlando International Airport (MCO)Palm Beach Seaport Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)Port Everglades SeaportPortland International Airport (PDX)Sacramento International Airport (SMF)San Diego International Airport (SAN)San Francisco International Airport (SFO)San Jose International Airport (SJC)San Juan Airport (SJU)San Juan Seaport Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)Tampa International Airport (TPA)Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)Vancouver International Airport (YVR)More like thisTechnology + GearWhen Global Entry and TSA PreCheck Are Worth It, and Which To Choose
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