Matador Network's Blog, page 439
July 12, 2022
This Chicago Hotel Combines Apartment Comfort With Skyscraper Views and Upscale Amenities
Chicago is a city of skyscrapers. Here, the only thing more iconic than Wrigley Field and more photographed than Cloudgate is the city’s skyline, which is a dense mass of about 1,400 high-rises stretching toward the heavens, the glass exteriors reflecting the ripples of Lake Michigan far below. An architectural cruise on the Chicago River is one way to see the buildings from below. But the best way for a visitor to experience this skyline from aboveground is to book a room in a hotel that occupies one of these buildings, like Level Chicago River North.
On a recent trip with my father, the second stop in our budding annual tradition of touring Major League ballparks, we spent three nights at Level Chicago River North. We chose Level because we wanted a place that we would actually want to spend time in, rather than a stuffy hotel room.
Level blends high-end urban living with the efficiencies of a long-term-stay hotel. The brand designs and manages luxury furnished suites that more closely resemble apartment flats than hotel rooms, with properties in Chicago, Vancouver, Los Angeles, and Seattle. This is coupled with hotel amenities like a 24-hour front desk and concierge, spa, and bag storage. The result is the removal of any uncertainties tied to short-term rentals in private homes, where what’s promised in the listing doesn’t always match what you find on arrival.
We hope you love Level Chicago River North! 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.
Accommodation perfect for the modern remote worker
Photo: Booking.com
Units at Level Chicago River North are furnished with toiletries and a full kitchen. Each suite has laundry machines and fast wi-fi, as well as a balcony overlooking the skyline and full-panel windows wrapping the living space. The view alone had us immediately satisfied with our decision to stay here.
Because we traveled during the week, I spent the mornings working before we headed out to tour the city and attend ballgames. The property has an onsite coworking space with gigabit internet, and access is free to hotel guests and residents of the property. The space features a few “hot seat” style tables with comfortable bench and chair seating, as well as three call booths and a lounge area. Four other people used the space during the morning I spent there, each of whom appeared to be a resident of the building who regularly worked in the coworking space.
Photo: Booking.com
I am a fan of coworking spaces, but the benefits of our 28th-floor suite, specifically the skyline views, kept me to just one morning in Level’s coworking area. It’s not every day (in fact, because I live in a small town, it’s almost never) that I get to pop open my laptop and settle in with a view of a world-famous skyline as my backdrop.
On the same floor as the coworking space is an elevated outdoor pool deck complete with a large pool, hot tub, cabanas, and two fire pits. One could theoretically bring their laptop to the pool and knock out some laps in between work tasks, then break for lunch in the indoor communal living room where a massive TV, couch, and lounge seating are available. Guests also have access to a massive gym, spa services, and a “media room” that is effectively a small movie theater.
I’d asked the concierge in advance for his thoughts on a deep-dish pizza worth trying, where to find good craft beer, and what to see in the River North neighborhood. He came back with a detailed list of what to see and do (including Pequod’s for pizza) that served as a walking itinerary for us when we weren’t working or out at games.
How to get to Level Chicago River North and what to be aware of in advancePhoto: Tim Wenger
High-end hotels tend to wow through opulence. Level, on the other hand, wows through practicality. It’s easy to get to the hotel on the train from O’Hare International Airport via the Blue Line to Grand Station. The hotel is also less than a mile from the Red Line, which runs straight through the city from north to south. We used this line to get to both Wrigley Field and Citizens Bank Park. If you plan to take an architecture tour or otherwise get out on the river, the DuSable Bridge and the docks that surround it are a five-minute Uber ride or a 20-minute walk, with ample dining and shopping options available along the way.
The main thing to note about Level Chicago River North is that, in addition to its furnished suites, the property also hosts long-term residents. You may be on the elevator with a jogger heading down to take their dog out or a young professional just getting home from work. On that note, the hotel is pet-friendly, so bring the pup along.
Parking is available at an on-site garage for an additional $10 per night fe. The hotel does not have onsite dining, though this is Chicago – anything you could possibly want to eat is available within walking distance or is a quick train ride away.
Level Chicago River North is not for those looking to be pampered by cookie-cutter hotel comforts, or who wish to remain hidden from the true character of Chicago. Quite the opposite – from the moment they open the door to their suite, Level helps its guests dive into the city and capture Chicago’s outgoing personality. For that, there’s no better place to be. 
Pearland Is the Best Place for Barbecue Near Houston. Here’s Where To Go.
Folks coming to Texas tend to know a little about what type of food to expect. It’s going spicy, rich, and it will fill you up. There’s probably going to be some Mexican influence. And there’s definitely going to be a lot of meat dishes.
Even as Houston grows its reputation as an increasingly deliciously diverse destination, one cuisine remains a stereotypical standout — and for good reason. Barbecue here is smoky and seasoned and saucy. It’s mostly beef, largely informed by the culture and traditions of the German and Czech immigrants who settled in the middle part of the state in the 1800s. And, of course, there’s plenty of Mexican-style barbacoa to be found here, too. This is Pearland, Texas barbecue — and it might not be at the top of your culinary bucket list right now, but it should be.
Pearland, Texas barbecue is made in the Central Texas style. This is the region that some people consider the birthplace of Texas barbecue. Central Texas barbecue is distinct for its simple dry rub of salt and pepper, though pit masters usually have their own special (and secret) dry rubs. And you won’t see a lot of sandwiches in Central Texas barbecue either, just slabs of meat that have been smoked over wood, and served on butcher paper.
In the sleepy suburb of Pearland, located southeast of downtown Houston and only about 50 miles from the coast, Texans and travelers to the state will find some of the finest Texas barbecue around. At just over an hour from the charming beach town of Surfside, Pearland makes an ideal destination for a delicious meal before you head toward the ocean. Here are a handful of Pearland, Texas barbecue restaurants worth a literal pit stop on a drive to the beach.
Where to eat Pearland, Texas barbecueBurns Original BBQView this post on InstagramA post shared by Burns Original BBQ (@burnsoriginalbbq)
The newest addition to the smokin’-hot scene is inconspicuously housed in a grocery store. The hometown favorite — whose original location is in the Acres Homes neighborhood in north Houston and was heralded by Anthony Bourdain on a 2016 episode of Parts Unknown — just opened a Pearland outpost inside Kroger. With a menu dubbed “limited” there is still quite generous in its offerings. Barbecue plates and sandwiches that serve one come with a choice of classic sides, while family packs that serve up to 15 are an incredible deal. Speaking of serving 15: The famous 10-pound Roy Burns Baked Potato, named for the founder, is actually three potatoes, piled high with a pound each of ribs, sausage, and chopped beef, plus layers of cheese, sour cream, and sauce. There is limited indoor seating available for those who dare to tackle this puppy in public.
Where: 11003 Shadow Creek Parkway, inside Kroger, Pearland, TX 77584
Killen’s BBQ
Photo: Kimberly Park
James Beard-nominated, Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef-restaurateur Ronnie Killen is a Pearland native, which may explain his affinity for setting up shop all over this town. His eponymous restaurants are all fantastic — Killen’s Steakhouse, for example, is a fine-dining stalwart — but the brisket and homemade sausage at his barbecue joint has earned raves from food critics nationwide. Opened in 2013, the nondescript appearance of a stucco building with a front porch belies its history as a one-time elementary school cafeteria. Inside, old-school trays are piled high with soulfully smoked meats and standard sides — creamed corn, baked beans — from 11 in the morning until Killen’s sells out.
Where: 3613 Broadway, Pearland, TX 77581
Central Texas Style BBQOne of the oldest businesses in Pearland, Central Texas Style Barbecue offers a tad more than its simple name suggests. Open daily from 10 in the morning to 8 at night, this spot looks like a roadside stand. There’s a vintage red, blue and yellow sign affixed to the roof that makes it stand out if you’re driving by. Its menu has countless specials named after regulars and offering different portions; sides and extras include deviled eggs, sweet cornbread, broccoli-rice casserole, and entrée-size servings of jalapeno-sausage-loaded pinto beans with rice. There’s even a Cuban sandwich, and a vegan version of the barbecue-stuffed baked potato. Go on Wednesday to score Eddie’s Grilled Cheese Brisket sandwich, with chopped beef held between two slices of Texas toast with ooey-gooey melted cheese.
Where: 4110 W. Broadway, Pearland, TX 77581
Big Horn BBQView this post on InstagramA post shared by Big Horn BBQ (@bighornbbq)
A gas station, convenience store, live-music venue, drive-through restaurant and five-star barbecue joint all in one? That’s Texas for ya. Ten years ago, two Pearland-native brothers opened Big Horn BBQ; their wives work in the fun, Western-themed gift shop. Here, perfectly smoked meat gets stuffed in everything from burgers and sandwiches to tacos and biscuits, starting at 6 in the morning. The fall-off-the-bone pork ribs and piled-high nachos are two exceptional value items, and the barbecue chicken is moist and saucy. Save time to peruse the adjoining gourmet market — and take home pre-packaged sausage to enjoy later.
Where: 2300 Smith Ranch Rd., Pearland, TX 77518
Seven Seeds BarbecueWhen the pandemic hit, Carl Wallace took a leap of faith and shifted his backyard passion to a full-time pursuit. Now, Seven Seeds Barbecue, named for his seven kiddos, has two food trucks. Both are permanently parked in Pearland, just a few miles from each other; one is at the brand-new Comida Park food truck park seven days a week. The menu is simple but well executed. Seven Seeds’ custom pit-smoker trailer churns out the likes of turkey legs, pork butt and classic brisket, of course, all paired with sides. Wallace even sells whole briskets, smoked and sliced with sides of sauce, with a 48-hour notice. The flexibility provided by the food-truck life allows for inventive, limited-run specials — think a triple-decker burger topped with chopped brisket, or brisket bowls with Bloody Marys.
Where: 3040 CR 48, Rosharon, TX 77583, 1014 N. Main St., Pearland, TX 77581
Pappas Delta Blues Smokehouse
Photo: Julie Soefer
It may not be in Pearland proper, but barbecue in the Houston area is nearly synonymous with the Pappas name and family. One of their most recent openings is Pappas Delta Blues Smokehouse, right down the freeway from Pearland in nearby Webster. These guys have been at this for generations, so it’s no surprise that the sit-down dining experience here is unparalleled, with experienced servers bringing out plate after plate of barbecue — plus smoked boudin and buttermilk-fried chicken — accompanied by craft cocktails and a serious whiskey program.
Where: 19901 Gulf Freeway, Webster, TX 77598
The 5 Best Rivers for Fly Fishing in Montana
Compared to fishing from a boat on a lake, with your feet kicked back and your idle fishing pole all but forgotten in your hands, fly fishing is an entirely different experience. It’s the perfect representation of the struggle between man and beast or man vs. nature in all its glory, as fly fishers battle not only the fish, but the raging currents of the river.
Fly fishing offers a unique rush of adrenaline but also a bit of peacefulness to be out in nature. So it makes sense that Montana – a state known for its peaceful scenery and intense outdoor recreation – is one of the best states in the country to do it. Fly fishing in Montana is among the best in the country, with several rivers teeming with fish, framed by stunning mountain landscapes that’ll make you appreciate your time spent outside, even if you didn’t catch a dang thing.
The Bighorn River
Photo: ButlerStockPhotography/Shutterstock
In south-central Montana, the Bighorn River is not just one of the best rivers for fly fishing in Montana, but the entire country. Brown and rainbow trout up to 16 inches in length have been caught in the Bighorn, especially in the 13 miles that flow from the Yellowtail Afterbay Dam. Summer is the best season to fish the Bighorn, though quality winter fishing is possible, too (it’s also less crowded). While the river is public property, the wild trout fishery flows through tribal lands, so be aware of accidentally trespassing.
The Madison River
Photo: NaughtyNut/Shutterstock
Flowing past the town of Ennis, the Madison River is filled with an abundance of wild brown and rainbow trout. The river starts within Yellowstone National Park and flows through the park for around 20 miles. Summer and fall are the best times to fish the river if you’re planning to wade into the hydrothermally heated water. The river collects at Hebgen Dam outside the park, popular for stillwater fishing. And the section flowing past Ennis (known as the “50-mile rifle”) is also a popular fishing spot, accommodating both wade and float fishing.
The Yellowstone River
Photo: Virrage Images/Shutterstock
Widely considered one of the best rivers for fly fishing in Montana, the Yellowstone begins in Yellowstone National park and is the longest undammed river in the country. The 700-mile river flows steadily and uninterrupted before ending in North Dakota, and the landscape surrounding its mileage is some of the most beautiful in Montana.
The section between Gardiner and Livingston is called Paradise Valley and is one of the most popular for fly fishing in Montana. Trout are abundant, particularly in the area from Yellowstone to Billings. Fishing the river inside the park will also yield great results, but there are more restrictions, such as prohibitions against tubing or floating. You’ll also need a fishing license, but fortunately, it’s easy to buy in advance online.
The Gallatin River
Photo: Damon CallistoShutterstock
The Gallatin River begins in the mountains of Yellowstone National Park and flows through Gallatin Canyon and Gallatin Valley before joining the Jefferson and Madison rivers to become the Missouri River. The 25-mile section of the Gallatin within the park looks more like a meadow stream than a thundering river, and anglers often find brown and rainbow trout in the shallow waters.
Outside the park, the section of the river that runs past Big Sky and through Gallatin Canyon is some of the best for fly fishing in Montana, too. No float fishing is allowed, but the section is great for wade fishing. Some parts are even shallow enough to wade across the entire river. You may even recognize some of the scenery from the 1992 movie “A River Runs Through It,” as a few of the film’s iconic scenes were filmed nearby.
Clark Fork River
Photo: Kevin Cass/Shutterstock
Originating between Butte and Deer Lodge, the Clark Fork River flows past Missoula to the border of Idaho, widening dramatically en route to Missoula. With plenty of access points, the river is popular with fishers looking for trout.
The area below the confluence of Rock Creek and Clark Fork above Missoula is most popular among anglers. The lower section, which picks up other waterways like the Flathead and Bitterroot Rivers, is popular for float fishing, especially below Missoula.
9 Historic Washington DC Hotels That Have Seen Secrets and Scandals
Washington DC is a history buff’s paradise with its rich past, gorgeous architecture, and many secrets and scandals both known and unknown. And while the monuments and museums offer a wealth of knowledge, the historic hotels in Washington DC have seen it all — from inauguration celebrations to clandestine meetings and everything in-between. These nine hotels offer a slice of DC history to guests through their exterior and interior designs, on-property programming, and bespoke concierge-designed itineraries that will help you make the most of a stay in the US capital.
We hope you love the historic hotels in Washington DC 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.
The Dupont Circle
Photo: The Dupont Circle
Photo: The Dupont Circle
Photo: The Dupont Circle
If you want to be in the center of all the DC action, there are few better places to stay than The Dupont Circle, which is close to monuments, museums, and excellent dining options.
The hotel’s Slice of the City program features tours, guides, and happenings around town, but Michael High, the chief concierge, can create personalized itineraries for anyone who wants tailor-made recommendations on how to see DC’s best historic sites.
“A concierge for over 27 years, Michael has a passion for creating bespoke experiences for guests,” says Amir Sakr, the hotel manager. “Whether visiting for the first time or the third, Michael can tap into his extensive network of connections to plan an itinerary that features the very best Washington has to offer — from city favorites such as the National Mall, to local neighborhood gems like The Phillips Collection, the first modern art museum in the United States.”
Whether you want to hop on a bike, splurge on a chauffeured driver, or get insider advice on the best walking tours in town, Michael can arrange it. After a day of exploring, retreat to your spacious room or suite, or grab a nightcap at on-site Doyle bar and lounge.
Thompson Washington DC
Photo: Thompson Washington D.C.
Photo: Thompson Washington D.C.
Photo: Thompson Washington D.C.
If you want to stay on the water and be close to the bustling energy of D.C’s Capitol Riverfront Navy Yard neighborhood, the newly opened Thompson Washington DC offers chic accommodations with plenty to do nearby.
Walk along the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail to reach the US Navy Museum and Cold War Gallery Museum, or head to The Yards for shopping and dining.
For academics, visiting students, and lovers of collegiate communities, Thompson Washington DC can also arrange tours at historic universities like Howard, George Washington, and Georgetown.
“We love being a part of such a dynamic and historic community,” says Katherina Kia, the hotel’s general manager. “It’s a core part of Thompson Washington DC, and it’s important we offer and encourage experiences that showcase the vibrant city history we all know and love to our guests.”
The property can also coordinate a tour of Old Town Alexandria, which is known for its charming cobblestone streets, 18th-century townhouses, and farm-to-table restaurants.
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington DC
Photo: Kimpton Hotel Monaco
Photo: Kimpton Hotel Monaco
Photo: Kimpton Hotel Monaco
Lovers of bold, opulent design will feel right at home at Kimpton Hotel Monaco, whether they’re relaxing in the colorful living room or soaking in their suite’s claw-foot tub.
It’s also an example of one of the nation’s most stunning architectural transformations. The building was designed by architect Robert Mills — designer of the Washington Monument — and was completed in 1842 before getting a north facade extension in 1865, designed by one of the Capitol’s architects, Thomas Walter.
The National Historic Landmark was the first all-marble building in the city and served as Washington’s General Post Office.
“The building was carefully restored and opened in 2002 as The Kimpton Hotel Monaco, and guests love that many of the original design elements are still here today,” says Bill Hanley, the hotel’s area director of sales and marketing. “Guests can still descend the building’s original marble and cast iron staircase, which is a favorite for wedding photos.”
After a day of exploring the city, retreat to hotel restaurant Dirty Habit for happy hour drinks and bites in the gorgeous courtyard.
The Watergate Hotel
Photo: The Watergate Hotel
Photo: The Watergate Hotel
Photo: The Watergate Hotel
You likely know The Watergate Hotel because it’s synonymous with one of the United States’ biggest political scandals, but the property was controversial from the start.
When it opened in 1965, its curvy, modern design by Italian architect Luigi Moretti was shocking to conservative DC. It became a hotspot for the rich and famous, where celebrities mingled with congressional representatives who lived in the Watergate apartments.
As 2022 is the 50th anniversary of the Watergate break-in, there’s no better time to take a tour of the Scandal Suite, which is always available to guests staying at the hotel.
“We highlight our Scandal Suite to accentuate guest experience and enjoyment, and the 50th anniversary is a commemoration of an event etched in history at an iconic hotel,” says Manuel Martinez, the hotel’s managing director. “The Scandal Suite was the site where the break-in was orchestrated 50 years ago, with the view from the balcony into what was the DNC office at The Watergate Complex.”
After a tour, head to The Next Whisky Bar for a Watergate Scandal cocktail, made with scotch, pear, and a mix of orange and Peychaud’s bitters.
The Jefferson, Washington DC
Photo: The Jefferson Hotel
Photo: The Jefferson Hotel
Photo: The Jefferson Hotel
Like much of DC, The Jefferson’s architecture is distinctly European. The Beaux Arts building was constructed in 1923 for luxury apartments, and now hotel guests can enjoy its splendor and original details like The Greenhouse restaurant’s stunning skylight.
If you’re not sure which site to see when visiting the city, Susan Lagon, The Jefferson’s property historian, can help light the way.
“Guests can come to me on Saturday mornings in the Book Room to ask their most pressing historical DC questions or allow me to guide them through a private tour of the hotel,” Lagon says. “I most enjoy pointing out homages to our nation and past presidents on only-found-here items, including maps, portraits, mirrors, upholstery, dishes, and architectural features.”
Lagon has also created self-guided itineraries — like “Honoring Influential Women” and “A Walking Tour for Hamilton Fans” — and a scavenger hunt. All are available for guests at the front desk. When you need a break from exploring, relax and recharge in one of the comfortable, elegant guest rooms, which are equal parts classic and modern.
The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection
Photo: The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection
Photo: The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection
Photo: The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection
The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection, has been making history since it opened its doors in 1920.
The press announced that it had “more gold leaf in its adornments than any other building in Washington after the Library of Congress,” and Nixon gave his farewell speech in one room before resigning office.
There are many more juicy tidbits to be had, which guests can learn about during The Mayflower Hotel’s Spies, Secrets, and Scandals Experience.
“Most of our guests comment that as soon as they step into the lobby, they can feel the history wash over them,” says Shelly DiMeglio, the hotel’s general manager. “Washington, DC has always been a city of scandal, and The Mayflower has been a part of many of the city’s most memorable tales.”
The 2.5-hour walking tour starts with a glass of bubbly (during afternoon bookings) at the hotel where an expert local guide will talk about the inaugural balls, testimonies, and deception that took place at the property. From there, you’ll visit other historic sites like Decatur House and Sickle Home before returning to the hotel for a cocktail at Edgar Bar, named for J. Edgar Hoover, who dined there daily.
The St. Regis Washington DC
Photo: The St. Regis Washington, D.C.
Photo: The St. Regis Washington, D.C.
Because of its location just steps from the White House, The St. Regis Washington, DC has hosted almost every US president since it opened in 1926.
Its history of famous guests has even inspired the pastries and sandwiches served at its signature afternoon tea ritual.
“The St. Regis Washington, DC has long served as the backdrop for important milestones in our nation’s history and a gathering place for notable political figures,” says Elias Assaly, the hotel’s general manager. “We are excited to spotlight the hotel’s place in US presidential history alongside the delectable creations imagined by our culinary team with our new Presidential Afternoon Tea service.”
For example, guests can enjoy a layered blueberry cheesecake, which pays homage to President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s love for his wife’s blueberry pudding. President Carter grew up on a peanut farm and announced his presidential campaign at the hotel in the 1970s, which inspired a delectable peanut butter chocolate opera cake. Don’t leave without trying The St. Regis Washington, DC’s signature Bloody Mary, made with gin, chesapeake spice, and garnished with a shrimp.
Riggs Washington DC
Photo: Riggs Washington D.C.
Photo: Riggs Washington D.C.
Photo: Riggs Washington D.C.
When the Riggs Washington DC building was constructed in 1891, it served as the Riggs Bank, which handled the personal finances of many presidents and embassies in the city.
Several DC hotels pay homage to US presidents, but this property honors their female counterparts with four gorgeously decorated suites.
“Inspired by our four signature First Lady Suites, we wanted to further champion the stories of some of our past presidents’ unsung better halves with an offering that invites our guests to dive deeper into the history of these women,” says Abe Liao, the hotel’s general manager. “Through private guided tours, historic accounts, and personalized accommodations, we hope to help bring their stories to life here at Riggs Washington DC.”
They named the four suites after First Ladies Ida McKinley, Caroline Harrison, Louisa Adams, and Angelica Van Buren and include design details inspired by each. For example, Adams encouraged music at the White House and hosted the country’s prominent performers of the time, so guests can enjoy a petite grand piano and gramophone when staying in her dedicated suite.
The Hay-Adams
Photo: The Hay-Adams
Photo: The Hay-Adams
Photo: The Hay-Adams
In 1884, architect Henry Hobson Richardson designed elaborate Romanesque homes that became the residences of John Hay (personal secretary to Abraham Lincoln and US Ambassador to the UK) and Henry Adams (Secretary of State under William McKinley and Theodore Roosevelt). Together with their wives and geologist Clarence King, Hay and Adams used their homes as one of Washington’s leading salons where intellectuals would discuss everything from art to politics.
Although the buildings have been replaced with the current Renaissance-style structure in 1927, The Hay-Adams is still a site full of rich history and stimulating conversation, especially through the hotel’s Author Series.
“The homes of John Hay and Henry Adams, often at the center of society during the city’s Gilded Age of the late 1800s, are mirrored in the way guests experience Washington with us today,” says Nicolas Beliard, the hotel’s managing director. “We want guests to feel cared for as if they were staying in someone’s home.”
After a day of sightseeing, retreat to the hotel bar Off The Record to sip a cocktail or wine and check out the caricatures of the city’s past and present political elite.
Professional Flight Reviewers Share the 5 Most Luxurious (and Bizarre) Airplane Bathrooms They’ve Ever Seen
If you’re used to flying in economy, you probably have a fairly negative opinion of airplane bathrooms: cramped spaces with juddering folding doors, ridiculous trash cans, and a long line to get in. But there’s another world of airplane bathrooms out there featuring showers, real toiletries, actual sinks, and decent water pressure. If you’re in the market for a first-class airplane ticket, consider booking onto one of these routes and aircraft models – picked out by professional flight reviewers – and you’ll land fresh as a daisy.
1. Airplanes with bathroom windowsJeb Brooks, professional YouTuber specializing in travel videos (especially flight reviews), has two favorites when it comes to airplane bathrooms:
“First, Delta Air Lines’ A220 has a bathroom at the back of the airplane with a window,” Brooks says. “It’s been dubbed the ‘loo with a view’ and is a real crowd pleaser. But only when the airplane is inflight, of course!
2. Fancy airplane bathrooms with showers, full-length mirrors, and heated floorsAnother airplane bathroom that stands out to Brooks are the Emirates bathrooms on the Airbus A380.
“They’re nestled at the front of the Super Jumbo’s upper deck and not only are they massive, they also have everything you could imagine, from showers to full-length mirrors,” Brooks says. “They’re stocked with every lotion and potion you can imagine. And, maybe best of all, the floors are heated. You wouldn’t want your first-class feet to freeze after your shower, after all!”
Brooks isn’t the only one to call out the luxury of the A380 bathroom, either.
“the first-class forward bathrooms on Emirates’ A380s are perhaps the most palatial bathrooms I’ve had the pleasure of using while flying,” says Tiezheng Bu, flight reviewer behind the YouTube channel Vicarious Voyager. Bu adds that “there’s enough room to fit four or five adults fairly comfortably – you could run a small book club in there. Amenities abound as well, from towels of different sizes to shampoos and conditioners, to cosmetic products you’re invited to take home. Everything is clad in a slightly gauche but nevertheless very luxurious faux burr wood, and the toilet seat is cushioned to be gentle on your rear end. Overall, it’s a very pleasant place to be, and resembles more of an at-home spa than an airplane toilet.”
3. Airplanes with downstairs bathroomsBu says the Airbus A340-500s and A340-600s are the first intriguing airplane bathrooms that come to mind.
“There’s nothing special about the lavatories themselves, but rather where they’re located,” Bu says. “When you get to the rear galley, there’s a flight of stairs you can take to the lower deck where, depending on the airline, you can find three to four restrooms as well as the door to the crew rest. I remember as a child traveling on Lufthansa’s A340s, I would also be excited by the prospect of walking up and down stairs on an airplane to go to the bathroom. It just seemed so bizarre and fascinating to me.
4. Airplane toilets that dispense anti-freezeWhile luxury and location are the defining memorable factor for some planes, what happens when you flush makes others stand out.
The lavatories on some of Air Canada’s Dash-8 Q400 aircraft servicing certain northern routes have bathrooms with no sinks or running water. Water pipes would freeze in the low temperatures these route travel. When a toilet is flushed, a small stream of blue-colored antifreeze solution comes out of the rim.
5. An airplane bathroom that is better than any airplane seatSingapore Airlines uses the Airbus 380 as well, and while it doesn’t have a shower like on Emirates, YouTuber Nonstop Dan notes that it’s extremely opulent
“Singapore Airlines A380 first class has the coolest bathrooms in the sky,” he says. “They feature a large vanity mirror with a chair, accompanied by a drawer full of amenities. The toilet is hidden behind it. Everything about this lavatory feels luxurious, and I’d rather spend my flight here than in most airplane seats.”
July 11, 2022
Airbnb Is Giving Away a Three-Week European Train Trip To Explore Historical Mansions and Villas
We hope you love the 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.
One of the best parts about European travel is how easy it is to get around to see the many historical monuments and museums. Plus, country-hopping is a breeze due to the region’s investment in train travel (and, in many cases, very picturesque train travel). If you can’t get enough of all the art and history these countries have to offer, Airbnb’s new historical homes category makes it easy to find almost 20,000 historic homes that are perfect for your stay. And to combine train travel and history, Airbnb partnered with Interrail, an all-in-one European train Pass, on its 50th anniversary to create the Airbnb Heritage Tour.
The tour will give you and five guests the chance to get a taste of what Europe is all about. From August 31 to September 18, this 19-day adventure features overnight stays in an English mansion, a French chateau, a Catalan manor, an Italian villa, and a German castle, all while gaining insight into the significance of each stay from each home’s hosts. Guests will be able to use their Interrail pass to get from place to place.
First, guests will travel to Bath from London’s Paddington Station to meet Sophie and her baronial-style 19th-century mansion with seven bedrooms, an English garden, a fireplace, and hammocks.
Photo: Claudia Zalla
Next, after three peaceful nights in Bath, guests will hop back on the train and head to the Saint-Georges-sur-Cher, France, to greet Pierre at his seven-bedroom chateau, which has been in his wife’s family for half a century.
Photo: Claudia Zalla
For the third stop, guests head to Spain to stay in Sant Pere de Ribes, just outside Barcelona. This Catalan Manor has a whopping 11 bedrooms, with a luxurious pool, tub, and banquet-style tables both in the dining room and outside to enjoy the weather and scenery.
Photo: Claudia Zalla
For the fourth stay, guests will head to Lucca, Italy, to stay in a 400-year-old villa with seven bedrooms, a pool, a private chef, and even a library.
Photo: Claudia Zalla
Finally, the journey ends with a stay in a 19th-century castle in Behren-Lübchin, Germany. Hotelier Kevin, his opera director partner Till and their dog Lucky will greet you and show you around the property adorned with a lounge, library, and hammocks.
To enter to win the European summer trip of a lifetime, applicants should describe why their group would be the perfect choice to share their journey and passions for adventure and cultural heritage. Applicants and their five guests must be aged 18 or over. The application closes on July 20.
This Chicago River Cruise Is the Best Way To Learn About the City’s Incredible Architecture
In Chicago, you can find a wide variety of cuisines, world-class museums, numerous green spaces, lots of hiking near the city, and a colorful mosaic of neighborhoods. The city especially comes to life at the slightest hint of warmth after the long winter months. And one thing that definitely needs to be on your list of Chicago outdoor activities? An architecture cruise along the Chicago River.
The Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise on the ships owned by river cruise company Chicago’s First Lady (CFL) is a sought-after attraction. The cruise is the only one narrated by certified volunteer docents from the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC).
The experience is like boating through an open-air museum during an architecture lesson about the skyscrapers, historic structures, and vibrant riverwalk that border the sides of the Chicago River. By the time you leave, you’ll be well-versed in Art Deco, mid-century modern, and postmodern styles thanks to firsthand examples all around.
What the Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise is like
Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise
The route covers all three branches of the Chicago River, namely the main stem, north branch, and south branch, punctuated by bascule bridges. It runs up to the mouth of the river in the east and Goose Island in the north.
The tour showcases thoughtful design and engineering nuances of more than 50 buildings, including the flying buttresses near the top of Tribune Tower, the river’s reflection on the curve of the Kohn Pederson Fox building, and the expansive exterior of theMart that once had its own zip code.
Volunteer docents bring the cruise alive with their passion and knowledge of the city. Why does the river flow in reverse? Where did the name Chicago come from? How is that skyscraper standing with such a narrow base? What happened in the Great Fire of 1871? Docents like television host and producer Geoffrey Baer and author Ellen Shubart answer these questions through stories about the events and people that shaped Chicago and its river.
It takes almost 100 hours of training to become a docent, and there’s a good chance that they’ll have an answer to any Chicago architecture question that you could think of.
“I love to be able to talk about all these different facets (Native Americans, railroads, wind, engineering, and architecture),” Judith Kaufman, a CAC docent of the class of 2010, says. “Everybody hears what they’re most interested in.”
Once you’re back at the dock, walk over to the architecture center or Millennium Park to continue your daytime excursions. After dark, head to the Riverwalk opposite theMart and watch the world’s largest permanent digital art projection called Art on theMart to top off another beautiful day in Chicago.
Onboard amenities
Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise
Once aboard, head upstairs to the open-air deck for a panoramic view of the river, lake, and architectural landmarks. The seating is not assigned, so try and arrive 20-to-30 minutes early to find a good spot along the periphery. The upper deck is where most of the action happens, so you’ll want to come equipped with caps, sunglasses, and sunscreen plus appropriate outerwear in the cooler months.
Every now and then, you can take a break from the sunny deck to relax in the climate-controlled salon on the main level. Head to the full-service bar for snacks and beverages, including local offerings. There’s beer on tap, cocktails, and wine alongside coffee and hot chocolate. A handful of sweet and savory snacks like cookies and trail mix are also on offer.
There’s no fear of missing out on the engaging commentary and views inside, as the cabin has large windows on three sides and a PA system to keep you in the loop. Environmentally conscious travelers will appreciate CFL’s sustainability initiatives like the low-flush toilets located on this level and the use of biodiesel fuel on its vessels.
The Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise: options, prices, and schedules
Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise
This year’s first cruise embarked on April 1st and will run until Indigenous Peoples’ Day in September or Veterans Day in November, weather permitting. Two-to-three cruises leave every hour starting at 9:00 AM with the final departure at 8:00 PM every night.
Tickets for the regular daytime cruise start at $51.96, while evening cruises start at $55.74 for adults or children aged four and above. Infants three years and under cruise for $23.62 at all times. Golden hour cruises are worth the extra bucks for stunning visuals of the river and its reflective surroundings in the soft, waning light.
A special 9:00 AM Saturday departure is catered to the needs of photographers for the usual daytime price. This cruise allows a freer movement of passengers and stops three times for added photo opportunities.
Visitors with accessibility needs can choose from specific times on vessels with wheelchair accessibility on the open-air bow deck, salon, and restrooms.
For an extra $5, you can add an entry to the Chicago Architecture Center right across the street, regularly priced at $14 for adults. It houses a striking 3D model of the city featuring more than 4,200 buildings with interactive audio-visual elements, among other changing exhibits.
Cruise tickets can be purchased online, at the dock, or at CAC. Online ticket purchase ensures a guaranteed departure and no line for ticket purchase but comes with additional fees of up to $14.41 per ticket (depending on the number and type of tickets). A portion of all ticket sales goes towards the architecture center’s STEM educational programs for children and teens.
Where the Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise is locatedThere’s no better way to get around the heart of Chicago than boarding a bus or L train. The dock is down a flight of stairs on the southeast corner of DuSable Bridge at 112 E. Wacker Dr. Bus stops along Michigan Avenue or Wacker Dr. and train stations at State/Lake or Millenium Station are just a short walk away. Taxis and rideshare services will also drop you off at the upper level by the bridge.
From there, take the stairs with a blue CFL awning to arrive at the Riverwalk where ticket windows and docks are located.
If you prefer to drive, the nearest public parking is at LAZ Parking Service Garage (111 E. Wacker Dr.) right next to the Architecture Center. Parking validation at the CFL ticket office or with a bartender will get you a discounted rate of $14 for up to three hours and $15 for up to four hours.
An accessible ramp to the Riverwalk is located at Wacker Dr. and State St. There is also an accessibility drop-off on Lower Wacker Dr. on the same level as the dock.
5 Wildlife Adventures Near Fort Myers To See Manatees, Spoonbills, Sea Turtles and More
In Fort Myers, residents don’t refer to their region as “south Florida” — they call it “southwest Florida.” And it’s easy to see why. The city, on the coast and surrounded by beautiful barrier islands, is nothing like Orlando. In fact, there’s to remind visitors that they’re in the state of Mickey Mouse and retirement communities.
But that doesn’t mean you’ll be hurting for what to do in Fort Myers – as long as you love outdoor exploration and wildlife. Instead of amusement parks and themed hotels, the islands of Fort Myers off paddle trails through mangroves, outer island beaches that seem plucked from the Caribbean, and the kind of bird watching that will make you download a birding app after just a few hours outside.
The marine preserves, state parks, and wildlife refuges around Fort Myers cover more than 350,000 acres of protected lands and waters, all of which provide for the area’s major attraction: wildlife. With easy ways to spot ospreys on the barrier islands or watch sea turtles, dolphins, and manatees cross the Pine Island Sound, the most challenging part of deciding what to do in Fort Myers is deciding which activities to save for your next trip.
Spot the birds at J.N. Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge
Photo: Dylan York
Sanibel, a laidback 11-mile-long island and a gem in the Lee County crown, boasts Caribbean-class beaches and a Florida Keys vibe that attracts as many spring breakers as snowbirds. But it’s the 6,400 protected acres of subtropical habitat at Ding Darling that make Sanibel and neighboring Captiva Island truly worth the trip for wildlife lovers.
Starting promptly at 7 AM, visitors can walk, bike, or drive the one-way road that runs through the heart of Ding Darling. But since the reserve is home to 428 species of birds, you should plan on the four-mile drive lasting an hour or longer. Tag on a visit to the welcome center, museum, and even the (literally award-winning) bathrooms, and it’s easy to spend all morning there.
And speaking of mornings: visiting in the morning is the way to play it. There’s not much shade and no-see-ums (tiny, biting bugs) can be intense in the afternoon. Besides, getting in well before lunch is the best way to see some of Ding Darling’s most popular residents: the roseate spoonbills. “All summer, every morning, they’re here until 10 AM,” Ranger Toni Westland advises. “They’re like cows – one leaves and the rest follow.”
Another tip: plan on spending some time at the observation tower, which offers the best vantage point for spotting a mass of tall, beautifully pink birds.
Go shelling on Sanibel Island
Photo: Maridav/Shutterstock
As the self-proclaimed “shelling capital of the world,” Sanibel Island offers more seashell-strewn sandbars than you can shake a stick at. In fact, if you ask anyone what to do in Ft. Myers right after a storm, they’ll tell you to head directly to Sanibel’s beaches.
The Gulf Coast currents and gently sloped seabeds here frequently wash up the spotted junonia shells, lettered olives, horse conches, and alphabet cones – often fully intact – that draw beachcombers from around the country. Lighthouse Beach is Sanibel’s most popular shelling spot and guaranteed to be packed by residents and tourists alike during low tide. Most will be doing the “Sanibel stoop” – a position that involves being hunched over the surf, nets and buckets in hand, combing for mollusk-free shells.
Beachcombing has become such a popular attraction on the island that in 1995 the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum chose Sanibel as its home. Remember that collecting “live shells,” including inhabited shells and live sea urchins, sand dollars, and starfish, is illegal on the island. But visitors can view live native mollusks at the museum’s aquarium.
Explore Cayo Costa State Park
Photo: Dylan York
In southern Florida, Bahia Honda and John Pennekamp State Parks in the Keys tend to get the glory (and tourists). But let it be known: Cayo Costa State Park has the same calm waters and white sands – plus seashells nearly as good as Sanibel, wildlife to compete with Ding Darling, and a tiny fraction of the crowds of more well-known parks. But there’s a trade-off for all those selling points: as a barrier island west of Fort Myers, Cayo Costa is accessible only by boat.
Save for a small, privately owned area, Cayo Costa State Park occupies the majority of the island and is open to all visitors willing to hop on a ferry, paddle themselves over, or take a private boat to the island. Tent campers have access to basic beachfront sites with bathrooms and showers, and a few cabins are available for rent. Most visitors come just for an afternoon of sifting through shells, spotting egrets and osprey from the beach, and snorkeling in water shared with manatees and sea turtles. If you’re wondering what to do in Fort Myers to get away from usual crowded beaches, Cayo Costa is it.
Take a boat tour of the islands
Photo: Scott Hay/Shutterstock
With two rows of barrier islands lining Lee County’s coast, many of Fort Myers’ most popular attractions are best reached by boat. In fact, there might be no better way to spend an afternoon (and a few hundred dollars) in southwest Florida than to hire or rent a boat for the day.
Jensen’s Marina and Captiva Water Sports, at the southern end of the Pine Island Sound, offer boat rentals for half-day or full-day excursions. But those unfamiliar with the area will find that hiring Captain Brian on the Water is a sure way to be both entertained and educated. With 28 years of experience and a certification as a Master Naturalist certification to boot, Captain Brian’s tours center around the interests that draw visitors to these waters: shelling, snorkeling, wildlife, and photography.
Go on a nature walk at Cabbage Key
Photo: Howard Layne/Shutterstock
On what has to be one of the coolest private islands in the country, visitors arrive by boat, travel by foot, and dine on fresh Gulf Coast shrimp and fish under a ceiling stapled with dollar bills. That’s Cabbage Key, of course – the name of both the island and its restaurant.
Cabbage Key seems to be purpose-built for a restful day on the water between Cayo Costa and Pine Island on land that could be mistaken for the Florida Keys, were not so sparsely developed.
Its roads are nature trails, its single restaurant is open-air, and its parking lot is a small marina. Many people visit for lunch and a quick walk as part of a more extensive island-hopping trip. But visitors who’d like to stay longer can reserve a surprisingly affordable room at the Cabbage Key Inn or one of its cottages.
Visiting the Inn and Restaurant puts guests on an exclusive list: according to the Wells Family, who has owned the island since 1976, Ernest Hemingway, Katharine Hepburn, Julia Roberts, and Jimmy Buffett have all sat at its famous bar. In fact, it’s rumored to be home to the original “cheeseburger in paradise.”
Kayak through the mangroves in Matlacha
Photo: Dylan York
Between the coast and many barrier islands near Forty Myers is a sprawling ecosystem of mangroves and seagrass beds protected by the state. The Great Calusa Blueway, a 190-mile paddling trail, makes some of these otherwise impenetrable habitats accessible to conscientious kayakers and canoers.
The Blueway preserves critical habitat for birds common to Lee County like osprey, herons, pelicans, and egrets, as well as sawfish, wild dolphins, manatees, rays, and, for a brief period each spring, even baby sharks. Aside from the sharks, they’re all common sightings.
One popular jumping-off point is the tiny island of Matlacha (pronounced, impossibly, matt-la-SHAY), which offers a burst of subtropical color and a surprising amount of seafood joints, considering the size of the island. It also has easy access to the Great Calusa Blueway via the Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve, making it a gateway to the trail’s mangrove forests (and easy to reach from Fort Myers).
Paddling routes are accessible and easy to follow for all levels of kayakers, thanks to the GPS-based Blueway App and well-marked trails. Don’t have your own kayak? No problem: Gulf Coast Kayak offers three-hour tours of the Matlacha Pass mangroves that provide the right combination of education, exertion, and wildlife spotting.
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26 of the Best Amazon Prime Day Deals on Travel Gear This Year
Amazon Prime Day 2022 runs from midnight July 12 to 11:59 PM on July 13. This is your chance to upgrade your travel gear or grab a deal on an item you’ve had your eyes on. Prime Day covers all categories, from electronics, beauty products, clothing, and gear. To help you bag a bargain, we’ve put together a selection of some of the best travel items in this year’s sale.
We hope you love the products we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
The best travel gear product deals on Amazon Prime Day 2022Memory foam travel pillow: $18.99 (save $6) [image error]
Buying the right travel neck pillow is an absolute game-changer. Made with memory foam and extremely soft silver fox textured plush velour, this pillow fits both adults and kids and comes with an easy-to-use zipper. It’s breathable, comfortable, and provides perfect support for the head and neck.
Travel laptop backpack: $39.99 (save $15) [image error]
This backpack is exclusively designed for plane travel. The TSA friendly travel laptop backpack unfolds at a 90 to 180 degree angle, allowing the laptop to stay flat without you needing to remove it. It also has a USB charging port and built-in charging cable so you can charge your devices while on the go.
SwissGear rolling suitcase: $87.67 (save $42.32) [image error]
The rolling suitcase is a staple of travel, whether you’re going on a long-haul trip or a weekend jaunt. The SwissGear rolling suitcase is both stylish and efficient, with multiple front panel pockets, a removable wet bag, and a packing pocket for smaller items and accessories.
Coollife three-piece luggage set: $189.99 (save $110) [image error]
Perfect for the whole family, this three-piece luggage set is made of lightweight yet durable material. The 20-inch, 24-inch, and 28-inch suitcases that come with the set can be put inside each other for convenient storage when you’re not traveling. Each suitcase comes with interior mesh zip pockets and an option to upgrade to a TSA lock.
Kenneth Cole Reaction three-piece luggage set: $143.07 (save $156.92) [image error]
The Kenneth Cole Reaction three-piece luggage set has everything you need for a family getaway. Each has main compartments with tear-resistant lining, double-sided packing, and a zippered organization pocket, while the exterior has a push-button retractable trolley handle for ease of use. It’s also made with durable, lightweight ABS material with corner guards that absorb shock.
TSA approved luggage locks: $10.89 (save $6.47) [image error]
Luggage security is key while traveling. You never know who might grab your suitcase off of the baggage claim belt — accidentally or otherwise — so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Enter TSA-approved luggage locks. These small locks work perfectly on backpacks, bags, briefcases, and all other types of luggage, and allow you to set your own three-digit combination.
Passport holder in multiple colors: $8.99 (save $1) [image error]
There’s nothing quite as terrifying as losing your passport before boarding your flight — or anytime, really. The Fintie Passport Holder is a synthetic leather holder that helps you keep track of your most important documents. There are also slots for business cards, credit cards, and boarding passes.
Fashionable fanny pack in multiple colors: $18.99 (save $4) [image error]
Fanny packs have come back as an essential accessory for smart travelers since the fanny pack golden years of the 90s. This water-resistant fanny pack comes with a flexible strap and multiple pockets, perfect for holding phones, wallets, keys, passports, cosmetics, and other small items. There are even separate slots for storing credit cards and a passport. In addition to its obvious airport and travel benefits, the fanny pack is also great for hiking and other outdoor activities.
Best deals on remote work gear during Amazon Prime Day 2022JBL Tune 230 Headphones: $59.99 (save $40)
A word to the wise: There’s more to the Bluetooth-enabled, in-ear headphone universe than AirPods. The JBL Tune 230 Headphones put AirPods to shame on three accounts: unbeatable active noise cancellation, four mics built in to optimize audio quality on calls, and an incredible “speed charge” feature that gives you two hours playtime with just 10 minutes of charging. On a normal charge, the JBL Tune 230s last up to 40 hours, or eight hours if you have noise-canceling enabled the whole time.
What sold us on this pair as the perfect travel and remote work headphones is a setting called Ambient Aware, which dials in surrounding noise on-demand so that you don’t miss important announcements on a plane, train, or elsewhere. If you spend time working in cafes, coworking spaces, or other crowded work hotspots, there’s no better option for noise-canceling in-ear headphones than the JBL Tune 230.
Google Pixelbook Go Chromebook: $775 (save $75) [image error]
Google has made a major play at Apple’s MacBook line over the past few years, undoubtedly gunning for its reign as the preferred laptop of remote workers and digital nomads. The Google Pixelbook Go Chromebook, on sale now for $775, is its best attempt yet. The Pixelbook Go is designed for those who move about, and with a 13.3-inch screen and 128GB of memory, you get a laptop with enough space for your professional and personal life that is small enough to fit in the laptop sleeve of your travel backpack.
Nest Mesh WiFi Point – Wi-Fi extender and smart speaker: $94 (save $56) [image error]
Mesh Wi-Fi routers are ideal for remote workers because they take your existing home network and allow you to divide it up around the house. This eliminates dead zones, and can even allow you to work outside on a nice day with the same bandwidth as if you were sitting directly under your router. Google Nest is our go-to mesh router and it’s on sale right now for $94 (save $56). These routers can be set up in minutes and are smart-home enabled, meaning they can boost the productivity of devices throughout your household.
Nest WiFi Router and 2 Points – Mesh Router for Wireless Internet [image error]
Of course, you need the Google Nest router to enable the mesh access points. If you don’t already have one, this deal combines the router with two points that you can set up anywhere in your home. Your remote work setup has never been faster.
Best wellness and body product deals during Amazon Prime Day 2022Yoga starter kit: $49.99 (save $10) [image error]
This yoga starter kit is ideal for not only a beginner yogi, but for those who actively practice and needs to upgrade their gear. The bundle comes in various colors from classic black to fuchsia pink. The well-padded mat comes with a strap, and the good-value kit includes two yoga blocks, two towels, and a strap.
Set of leak proof silicone travel bottles: $12.74 (save $14.25) [image error]
A package like this will make you one organized traveler. The kit includes 21 containers of various shapes and sizes. TSA-approved and 100 percent leak-proof, the silicon containers are perfect for shampoo, body wash, creams, and perfume.
Water-resistant toiletry bag: $15.99 (save $14) [image error]
This sleek, roomy, water-resistant toiletry bag is chic and super practical. The baby pink eco-leather is also very durable, and is ideal for a weekend away or a longer vacation.
Essential oil travel set: $17.99 (save $5) [image error]
Tea tree, lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, lemongrass, orange, jasmine, sandalwood, chamomile, and vetiver essential oil kit for $17.99. What a steal. The calming set is ideal for use in diffusers, humidifiers, aromatherapy, or for pressure points to relax during travel.
Contoured eye mask: $19.99 (save $10) [image error]
Manufactured with memory foam, this soft and comfortable eye mask is ideal for restless travelers. Although it blocks out light, its 3D mold allows space for blinking. It has an adjustable strap which is easy to adjust.
Best outdoor gear deals during Amazon Prime Day 2022Solar-powered collapsible lantern and USB charger: $19.99 (save $10) [image error]
A solar-powered lantern will never not be handy — especially since it collapses to the size of a hockey puck. There are plenty of solar lanterns on the market, but we particularly like this one for two reasons: it provides up to 10 hours of light, and it doubles as a solar charger for any device via a USB port. It’s also useful in case of unexpected power outages.
Suunto 9 Baro GPS Smartwatch: $399 (save $200) [image error]
Our outdoor editor bought her first fitness tracking watch years ago on a whim, but now, she never hikes or mountain bikes without it. Being able to see your elevation, distance, and heart rate stats as you cycle up a hill or make your way on foot to a summit helps you gauge your pace, ultimately building constancy and endurance. You can also use it to track your hikes, upload hikes and follow the maps from your watch, track your sleep, and much more. The Suunto 9 Baro is an especially useful choice as it has a battery life of up to seven days, plus 80 sport modes and a barometer to accurately gauge your elevation changes (useful in nearly all mountain sports). It’s a great discount at nearly half off and a useful tech buy on Amazon Prime Day 2022, even if you only wear it while working out.
An inflatable stand-up paddleboard with backpack case: $209 (save $91) [image error]
If you’re an occasional paddleboarder who paddles mostly on flat water and calm ocean, as opposed to rivers or rapids, do yourself a favor and spend the $200 on this full paddleboard kit. It includes everything you need to get out on the water, including the board and paddle, a hand pump, an ankle leash, and a backpack carrying case to make it easy to carry on short hikes out to your favorite lake. It’s not the fanciest paddleboard available, but it’s sturdy, highly reviewed, and easy to transport. At almost $100 off the normal price, it’s a great Amazon Prime Day 2022 deal if you want to treat yourself without breaking your budget.
LifeStraw water filter with hanging gravity bag: $25.95 (save $25) [image error]
This is our outdoor editor’s favorite Amazon Prime Day 2022 deal for any backpackers or campers. Hikers and campers already know they need to carry a water filter to cut down on backpack weight and rehydrate during multi-day trips, but walking back and forth to your water source to fill one water bottle at a time is a real time suck. This water filter with a gravity bag solves that: just fill the giant bag, hook up the filter, hang it from a tree, and you’re all set. You can use it to fill bottles, wash dishes, brush your teeth, or even do a quick rinse. It also weighs next to nothing, so it’s easy to carry. It’s a heck of a good deal at 45 percent off.
Four-bike car rack: $99.99 (save $100) [image error]
It’s time to get your bike out of your car — and tire marks off your car’s upholstery. This is a heck of a good deal for cyclists, especially if you want to run bike shuttles with your friends. The rack works for both road bikes and mountain bikes (though as with many racks, you may need a bar adapter for some full-suspension mountain bikes). Buyers report that the rack is sturdy and bikes are easy to mount. You’ll need a hitch on your car to mount the rack and be sure to check the max weight rating for your car (usually in the user manual) before mounting four heavy bikes.
By the way: this is a limited deal, so only a certain number of racks are available. If you’re at all on the fence, we advise buying it while you can — you can always return it for free later with Amazon Prime.
Telescope with a phone mount and hands-free photo shooting: $140 (save $160) [image error]
If you’ve ever wanted to peer up at the night sky to spot constellations, planets, and even rocket launches, now’s your chance. This freestanding telescope kit (which also includes the telescope plus a carrying case and multiple lenses) is one heck of an Amazon Prime Day 2022 deal if you’re fascinated by space. Our favorite feature is the built-in cell phone mount and wireless photo-taking capabilities, so you don’t have to worry you’re going to blur your carefully focused shots by tapping the shutter button.
Mesh beach bag with tons of pockets: $21 (save $9) [image error]
This roomy beach bag fits much more than you’d expect — certainly more than a backpack — and has a half-dozen external pockets to organize small items like sunblock, sunglasses, or cell phones. The best part, of course, is that it’s made from durable mesh, completely eliminating the risk of getting sand in your bag. Shake it out once you’ve packed up after your beach day, and you’re good to go.
Complete at-home slacklining kit: $39.97 (save $15) [image error]
If you thought slacklining was the purview of hippies and expert yogis only, think again. Slacklines are a great way to build balance and core strength and increase your mental focus. Once you have one set up, you can pop on it for just a few minutes at a time since you don’t need to take it down after every use (though you may want to take it down in heavy snow). Slacklining is easier than it looks, especially if you follow some of the beginner techniques for learning to stand. This kit comes with the slackline as well as tree protectors and a ratchet kit to keep it tight, but the “complete” kit (at a similar discount) also includes a hand rope, which can be helpful for beginners.
Ultralight two-person backpacking tent: $204 (save $75) [image error]
Many of the items on sale for Amazon Prime Day 2022 are generic brands, which is why it’s nice to see this technical, highly rated two-person backpacking tent from established outdoor brand ALPS Mountaineering on sale. The two-person Helix is easy to assemble and roomy enough for two, plus it has extra vestibule space under the rainfly to keep your gear dry and covered. But the best selling point is the weight: even the two-person tent is less than four pounds, which normally is only seen on tents that cost you a lot more than $204.
What is Amazon Prime Day?In short, Amazon Prime Day is the e-commerce platform’s version of a mega-sale. It’s effectively a digital Black Friday, where all types of items are listed at huge discounts to entice shoppers to stock up on a variety of things while they are cheap. Discounted prices are listed next to the normal price, in a different color, noting the discount. You can only take advantage of Prime Day prices during the two days in which the sale takes place. After the sale is over, prices return to normal.
Prime Day came about in 2015 because Amazon wanted to celebrate its 20th birthday in a manner that would draw massive attention (and create massive profits). It has since become one of the most anticipated online retail events of the year, with shoppers able to take advantage of deals on items that touch nearly every aspect of their lives. Even books, the company’s flagship product, are steeply discounted, sometimes even free for Prime members.
Do you need to be a Prime member to participate in Amazon Prime Day?Yes, you do. However, it’s not too late to join. What’s more, you can sign up for a free 30-day trial right now and be eligible to participate in Prime Day. Amazon Prime costs $15 per month or $139 per year. Once enrolled, you can take advantage of perks like free shipping, special deals, and the ability to participate in these special Prime Day sales.
When is Amazon Prime Day?Amazon Prime Day 2022 runs on July 12 and July 13, 2022, from midnight on the first day until 11:59 PM on the second. You can take part in the sale up until the very end, and Amazon has listed some products in advance, including AirPlay Pro Bluetooth adapters. Prime Day sales cover everything category on the site, and include products from many large vendors — and pretty much everything made or sold by Amazon directly.
Prime Day typically takes place in July, though last year’s Prime Day happened in June. Rumors abound that a second Prime Day will take place later in 2022, to offer similar deals once again to Prime members.
For comparison, here are the dates of previous Prime Day sales:
Prime Day 2015: July 15Prime Day 2016: July 12Prime Day 2017: July 11 and 12Prime Day 2018: July 16 and 17Prime Day 2019: July 15 and 16Prime Day 2020: Oct. 13 and 14 (delayed due to COVID-19 pandemic)Prime Day 2021: June 21 and 22How does Prime Day work?Amazon Prime Day is a simple program: As long as you’re a Prime member, you can take advantage of all the great deals on travel products and all kinds of other gear. When you’re logged into your Prime account, you’ll see the deals pop up automatically when you look at a product, or a listing of different eligible products. Buy the product, and you automatically get the discounted price. Plus, you still get those sweet Prime perks like free shipping in just one to two days, in many cases.
What countries can participate in Prime Day?Amazon has added more countries to its list of participants in Prime Day 2022. You can take part in Amazon Prime Day on six continents (we’re still waiting for word on when Antarctica will be accepted).
Bring the Dogs: Tips for RV Travel With Pets
Part of the beauty of traveling is making memories with those dearest to you, so why leave your pet behind? Traveling with dogs is far easier on the road than in the air — especially with an RV, when you’re bringing your lodging with you. There’s no being separated on the plane, rushing back to pick her up from the sitter, or packing a suitcase for all her stuff. Plus, being able to snuggle up with your little guy during the journey is like bringing a core part of home with you.
When you travel by RV, it’s you, your best friend, and the open road. Here’s what you need to know to make the journey easier so you and your pup can focus on crafting those lifelong memories.
Plan ahead for pet-friendly adventures.
Photo: Go RVing
Even though traveling with an RV means having the freedom to go anywhere you want at your chosen pace, it takes some planning to know where you can and can’t take your dog. Many national parks, for example, don’t allow pets. Save yourself some stress by researching pup-friendly outdoor adventures in advance of your trip. It won’t be a fun experience for anyone if you’re caught trying to hide your pup, or end up with a scenario where you’ll have to either skip an activity or find an emergency sitter.
Check out BringFido for a list of dog-friendly parks, beaches, and hotels in every state to help plan your stops. This way, you’ll spend your time having fun rather than frantically looking for a place where your dog is welcome.
Tip: Always know and follow local leash laws. Even if your pet is super well behaved, you can’t control wildlife — and a spooked dog could put you both in danger around big animals like moose, bears, and mountain lions. Err on the side of safety and heed the rules if a trail says to leash up your pup.
Update your contacts.
Photo: Go RVing
Before you make any bookings, do some research on nearby emergency vet services. Knowing there’s a vet within an hour’s drive of where you’re going will provide peace of mind, especially if you’re planning any long hikes or other strenuous activities with your pet.
Tip: Have a 24-hour vet line saved in your phone for any urgent questions about unfamiliar plants or litter your pup may have snacked on while on the trail.
Similarly, if you’re looking into any not-so-pup-friendly activities, be sure to plan ahead and search for doggy daycare or local pet sitters to keep your dog safe and sound while you’re otherwise occupied.
Help your pup feel at home.
Photo: Go RVing
Just like how you brought your favorite blanket in your RV, your pet needs to feel comfortable too. RV travel may take some getting used to for them, especially if it’s a new experience for all of you. Consider doing a test run of the adventure by spending a night or two camping in your own driveway or yard, to see how your pet reacts to the new surroundings.
Do what you can to help your dog find her own cozy little corners — bring a bed, enough food, her favorite toys, and maybe a new treat to help her get excited about the experience. A folding step ladder is a simple way to help your pups climb up into the vehicle or onto your bed (if that’s allowed, that is). This way, they can go up and down as they please. When it’s not in use, just fold it up and slip it somewhere out of the way.
Tip: Traveling with your pup means being more mindful. Don’t leave anxious dogs unattended for long periods, especially in your vehicle on sunny days, even if it isn’t hot outside — it’s just not worth the risk.
Pack essential adventure gear for your dog.
Photo: Go RVing
It makes sense to invest in adventure gear like a sturdy helmet before rock climbing up a cliff face, so do the same for your pet. Have an adventure-ready kit to keep them safe and within sight — especially at night.
Ruffwear’s Knot-a-Hitch stretches between two trees to give pups the roam of the campsite on a tangle-proof, hands-free lead. You can also pick up a light-up or glow-in-the-dark collar or attach a small light or headlamp to their harness so you can always see where they are as the sun goes down. Finally, a dog-specific first aid kit — like this one from Adventure Medical Kits, which specializes in camp-friendly kits — will keep you stocked with the nonnegotiable essentials in the event you need to pull a thorn from a paw or tape up a sprain. Now your pup can run around in all that open space and fresh air.
Tip: Don’t forget that your dog needs clean drinking water too and, just like us humans, can get sick from untreated sources. Pack enough water for all of you or bring a portable filter if you’re camping by a lake or pond.
All it takes is a little extra planning and a new toy — or two — to make your next RV adventure perfectly dog friendly, and you’ll be happy you thought ahead. Seeing your pup run around in wide open spaces and take in all the sights, sounds, and, of course, smells nature has to offer make for some of the most fulfilling parts of being their best friend.
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