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9 Direct Flights From NYC for 2025, Starting at $165 Round-Trip

New York City may not be the center of the world, despite what many of its residents may think. But when it comes to international travel, it’s certainly an ideal place to be. New Yorkers have access to two large-scale international airports — John F. Kennedy and Newark Liberty — offering direct flights to destinations across six continents. (Antarctica, of course, remains a boating journey). And while LaGuardia is widely considered a domestic hub, it does offer direct flights from NYC to a few attractive destinations in the Caribbean and Canada.

All three airports are easily accessible via public transport and boast an array of lounges for frequent fliers, though, like everything else in New York, they have a tendency to get over-crowded. Fortunately, you can enroll in TSA PreCheck or register for Clear at NYC airports to avoid long security lines.

But before you worry about security lines, you have to book your flight, which means figuring out where to go next. Fortunately, there are plenty of direct flights from NYC to international destinations starting at surprisingly low prices.

These are the nine best international flights from New York City to help you plan your next adventure, listed in order of price by airport.

We hope you find an epic flight deal! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Direct Flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is the go-to airport for international travel for New Yorkers. It’s the sixth largest airport in the United States, serving 190 destinations, 78 countries, and 72 airlines. Because of the volume of flights, rates tend to be cheaper than in Newark, and there are more options for direct flights.

JFK is also the easiest to access via public transit, with a stop on the E train in Long Island, so you don’t have to pay for an expensive airport shuttle. You’ll want to arrive quite early, however, as it’s the busiest airport in the state.

Flights to Portugal from NYCPhoto: Serenity-H/ShutterstockPhoto: Ronstock/Shutterstock Photo: A_Mikhail/ShutterstockPhoto: Sergiy Vovk/Shutterstock Flight time: 6 hours, 15 minutesAirlines: Azores, Tap AirLowest round-trip price in 2025: $361 (May) via SkyscannerWhere to stay: This Bright Pink Hotel on a Tropical European Island Is a Literal Dream Getaway

The best deals on flights from NYC to Portugal typically fly into Lisbon or Porto. Non-stop flights from JFK to Madeira, Portugal, launched in 2022 and offer travelers quick and easy access to the idyllic European destination. Madeira and Porto Santo are the two main inhabited islands in the Madeira Islands, a small Portuguese island chain off the western coast of Africa, roughly 350 miles from Morocco. The tropical European island has long been a well-kept secret amongst frequent fliers, renowned for its mountainous coastline, volcanic lava pools, and picturesque vineyards that provide plenty to do.

The new flight path is a sign that the island is increasingly becoming popular on a global stage, and, thanks to its positioning in the North Atlantic, it’s one of the best direct flights from NYC for a long weekend trip (though you may want to stay along its shores for far longer than that). The best months to visit are August and September, when the weather is warmest, though there’s no bad time to visit this Portuguese oasis — the subtropical climate guarantees 12 months of sunshine.

Once you arrive, lounging at the beach is certainly an option, but you’ll find plenty of adventure activities ranging from waterfall-jumping tours to wine-tasting tours in an open-air Jeep. And the hiking is also world-class, with an extremely well-marked system of coastal and inland trails. Oh, and don’t forget to take a wild basket ride while you’re there, too.

Browse Flights

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Flights to Iceland from NYCPhoto: tracym_41 /ShutterstockPhoto: 2intour /ShutterstockPhoto: Piotr Krzeslak /ShutterstockPhoto: Puripat Lertpunyaroj /ShutterstockFlight time: 5 hours, 45 minutesAirlines: Kenya AirwaysLowest round-trip price in 2025: $359 via SkyscannerWhere to stay: Sleep and Dine With Giraffes at This Giraffe Hotel in Kenya

Iceland is all the rage right now — and this summer is the perfect time to find out why. Flights from NYC to Iceland are cheap and quick, and you can be at the Blue Lagoon within an hour of landing. The country is known for hiking, fjords, and small towns that feel a world away from the hustle of Manhattan or Brooklyn, even though the flight is under six hours long.

The best way to see a lot of Iceland in a short time is to book a private tour. These can be catered to interests like outdoor adventure, food and drink, or wellness (and it’s easy to combine all three into one epic trip). The country features some of the best Airbnbs anywhere, including remote cabins and stargazing bubbles. Of course, there are the northern lights . It’s also possible to hop a cruise around the island and see the natural sights from the water.

You’ll fly into Keflavik, which is under an hour from Reykjavik, the capital. The Blue Lagoon is between the two, and if you land early in the morning, head straight there to beat the crowds that show up in the afternoon.

Learn More

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Flights to New Zealand from NYCPhoto: PRILL/ShutterstockPhoto: Rudy Balasko/ShutterstockPhoto: Hot Pixels Photography/ShuttertsockPhoto: gregorioa/ShutterstockFlight time: 17 hours, 30 minutesAirlines: Air New Zealand, Qantas, AmericanLowest round-trip price in 2025: $1,071 via SkyscannerWhere to stay: The 6 Best Luxury Resorts in New Zealand

Air New Zealand launched the first direct flight between JFK and Auckland in September 2022, eliminating the need for New York travelers to stop in Texas or California en route to the gorgeous South Pacific nation. Sure, 17 hours is a long flight, but it’s a comparatively minimal price to pay for getting to visit. New Zealand is a destination truly worth circling the globe to visit.

Home to dramatic fjords, pristine glaciers, and endless undulating hillsides, New Zealand is famous for its otherworldly nature — hence its nickname of “The Real Middle Earth.” But the culture and cuisine of the Oceania island are also not to be overlooked, and Auckland is the perfect starting point for a trip through NZ.

Thrill-seekers can opt for the Skywalk along New Zealand’s tallest skyscraper for a view of the city, while beach lovers should head west to the coast to enjoy the spectacular sunset at Piha Beach. New Zealand’s world-renowned vineyards are along the eastern coast, while lush rainforests abound in the sup-tropical North Island of New Zealand. Unlike some other direct flights from NYC on this list, there’s not much point in going for just a few days. Budget at least two weeks at a minimum to get a feel for the country.

Learn More

Read more about New Zealand:20 Years Later, Here’s How ‘The Lord of the Rings’ Has Changed New ZealandWhy Raglan Is New Zealand’s Coolest Tiny Surf TownThe Meaning Behind the Haka, New Zealand’s Mesmerizing Maori Dance

Direct Flights from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is another portal for New Yorkers to the world beyond. It’s a smaller (and often less crowded) hub for travelers, with only three terminals compared to JFK’s six. As a result, there are fewer options for direct flights, though EWR still connects travelers to 183 destinations in 57 countries.

While JFK is easiest to reach on the subway, EWR’s location in Newark is more convenient for travelers leaving from the west side of Manhattan as the AirTrain connects EWR to Penn Station in about 25 minutes.

Flights to Peru from NYCPhoto: badahos/ShutterstockPhoto: Macab52/ShutterstockPhoto: Jess Kraft/ShutterstockPhoto: Ksenia Ragozina/ShutterstockFlight time: 8 hoursAirlines: UnitedLowest round-trip price in 2025: $468 via SkyscannerWhere to stay: Hotels Near Machu Picchu Perfect for Post-Trek Relaxation

Fly south to the Peruvian capital of Lima with United’s direct flight from EWR. While many travelers are already aware of the charms of South American capitals such as Bogota or Buenos Aires, this cosmopolitan destination along the Pacific Ocean remains wildly underrated. And flights are quite the steal, often under $500 round-trip.

While many visitors view Lima as a stopover to Cusco and Machu Picchu, the city holds a charm all its own. Avid surfers from all over the globe flock to Lima’s beaches as the Peruvian city is among the most underrated surfing destinations in the world (and one of the birthplaces of the sport). Travelers can spend a day on the beach and an evening visiting the bars and restaurants of the popular Miraflores District, home to some of the city’s best nightlife. The Larco Museum has fascinating exhibits on the nation’s pre-Columbian history, and you’ll definitely want to take a walking tour of the innovative street art and galleries in the neighboring district of Barranco.

Learn More

Read more about LimaWhat It’s Like To Eat Guinea Pig in Peru for the First TimeThis Hostel In Lima Is The Perfect Basecamp To Explore The CitySleep Like a Condor in Peru’s Only Cliff-Hanging Capsule HotelGo Here, Not There: Choquequirao Is as Epic as Machu Picchu (but Without the Crowds)

Flights from NYC to ParisPhoto: Catarina Belova/ShutterstockPhoto: Gorodisskij/ShutterstockPhoto: SosnaRadosna/ShutterstockPhoto: Catarina Belova/ShutterstockFlight time: 7 hours, 10 minutesAirlines: Air France, Delta, United, La Compagnie, French Bee, Air CaraibesLowest round-trip price in 2025: $373 via SkyscannerWhere to stay: The 9 Most Exciting Boutique Hotels in Paris

As 1943’s “Casablanca” told us, “we’ll always have Paris.” (Well, barring a global pandemic). But it’s nice to know that a trip to the City of Light is as easy as ever thanks to the array of  flights from NYC to Paris, from EWR direct to Charles De Gaulle Airport. And if you’re looking to save money before spending Euros overseas, consider a trip towards the end of the year, when round-trip prices dip below $500.

While the allure of the French capital remains well-documented in popular culture, there’s still so much to discover on a trip to Paris. Whether you’re interested in living like a local in the eccentric 18th Arrondissement of Montmartre or clubbing in the Marais, there’s something to entice every type of traveler. Of course, you could fill an entire trip with just visiting museums; the Louvre alone can warrant two or three days.

Learn More

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Flights to Japan from NYCPhoto: Alex Waltner Photography/ShutterstockPhoto: aon108/ShutterstockPhoto: Phattana Stock/ShutterstockPhoto: f11photo/Shutterstock Flight time: 14 hours, 30 minutesAirlines: United, ANALowest round-trip price in 2025: $805 via SkyscannerWhere to stay: The Top Tokyo Hotels in Each Must-See Neighborhood

There’s a certain thrill involved in departing one major global hub and arriving in another — especially when the latter is totally different than the former. And if you’re looking to save money on airfare, check out the rates for a direct flight to Narita International Airport, which are under $1,000 via Skyscanner for May, 2025. That’s also good news for skiers, since the low rates continue into December.

Tokyo is a cultural hotspot and a trendsetting capital, not just within the nation of Japan but throughout the world. You can spend days getting lost in the city’s art districts, historical sites, and shopping centers, experiencing the city’s very distinct historical and modern-day cultures and subcultures.

To capitalize on the country’s natural beauty in the fall, time your trip for November, when the Japanese maple trees (momiji) turn red. Much is said about Tokyo’s cherry blossom season in March and April, but autumnal leaf peeping in Japan is just as colorful (and usually more affordable). And Tokyo is so lively that there’s always something happening year-round.

Learn More

Read more about Tokyo:5 Hidden Temples in Tokyo You Need to Visit12 Tokyo Airbnbs in the heart of the incredible cityThis Rowdy Alleyway Is the Best Place To Drink Beer and People Watch in TokyoHow To Explore Japan on the Country’s Bullet Trains

Direct Flights from LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is in Queens, just north of Manhattan, and is the smallest airport in New York City. While LGA is generally reserved for domestic travel, the airport does offer a few direct flights from NYC to international locales, with non-stop flights to 84 destinations in four countries other than the US: Aruba, the Bahamas, Bermuda, and Canada.

The small airport is easy to navigate and reachable on the F or N subway lines. And since it’s only 10 miles from Manhattan, it’s cheaper and faster to reach by taxi than other other New York airports, especially if you’re uptown or on the east side. Plus, the recent renovations have been hailed as both innovative and luxurious, and the full $8 billion redesign will be complete by the end of 2024.

Flights to Toronto from NYCPhoto: R.M. Nunes/ShutterstockPhoto: Diego Grandi/ShutterstockPhoto: Jam Norasett/ShutterstockPhoto: Vadim.Petrov/ShutterstockFlight time: 1 hour, 40 minutesAirlines: Air Canada, United, WestJet, DeltaLowest round-trip price in 2025: $165 via SkyscannerWhere to stay: 8 Hotels in Toronto With Outstanding Service and Proximity To Must-See Attractions

Consider a trip up north with a jaunt to Ontario. Toronto Pearson International Airport is just under a two-hour direct flight from NYC’s LaGuardia, and prices are extremely reasonable year-round. Toronto is Canada’s largest city and home to impressive art galleries and museums — not to mention the Hockey Hall of Fame (a tribute to the most Canadian of sports).

Toronto is an ideal place to spend a cosmopolitan weekend exploring award-winning restaurants and outdoor festivals, or doing some nearby sightseeing. Iconic Niagara Falls is nearby (and much more beautiful on the Canadian side), as is Prince Edward Island, a coastal oasis with red-sand beaches every bit as gorgeous as the pink sands of the Bahamas.

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Flights to Spain from NYCPhoto: steve bridge /ShutterstockPhoto: Milan Skypol /ShutterstockPhoto: jackbolla /ShutterstockFlight time: 2 hours, 20 minutesAirlines: American Airlines, Air FranceLowest round-trip price in 2025: $551 via Skyscanner

Visiting Madrid or Barcelona in summer is the stuff of Eurotrip dreams. Spain is the place to be from May until the seasons change, and with these flight deals from La Guardia to Madrid and elsewhere in the country, you can splurge a bit on an Airbnb while you’re there. Plan to take your trip to Seville and into Basque country, where you can eat some of the best cuisine in the world.

In Madrid, the Royal Palace is a must-see, and an afternoon should be blocked to stroll through the art-filled halls of the Prado Museum. Also experience Plaza Mayor and the lush greenery of Retiro Park. In Barcelona, you can admire the breathtaking architecture of Antoni Gaudí, especially the Sagrada Família and Park Güell. Stroll down La Rambla to experience the city’s lively street life and explore the historic Gothic Quarter.

Learn More

Read more about Spain:Grab Your Friends and Live the Good Life on a Trip to MadridSeville Is One of Europe’s Underrated Cities. Here’s Where to Stay for a Cultural Trip to Spain.This Little-Known Luxury Train Is the Spanish Equivalent of the Orient ExpressMadrid Neighborhood Guide: 4 City Districts for Getting Off the Beaten PathHow to Plan the Perfect Two-Week Itinerary for a Trip to Spain

Flights to the Bahamas from NYCPhoto: Wangkun Jia/ShutterstockPhoto: Denis Moskvinov/ShutterstockPhoto: GagliardiPhotography/ShutterstockPhoto: Daniel Sockwell/ShutterstockFlight time: 3 hours, 15 minutesAirlines: JetBlueLowest round-trip price in 2025: $363 via SkyscannerWhere to stay: 17 of the Most Breathtaking Airbnbs in the Bahamas

There are few things more refreshing than departing the big city for the tropics, and to boot, flying to The Bahamas from NYC is cheaper than flying to many domestic destinations. You can get there fast and then take it slow. Beach Boys, anyone?

While there are few Caribbean destinations as well-known as the Bahamas, the nation’s capital of Nassau still holds many surprises and delights for first-time visitors and return travelers alike. If you’re not into all-inclusive resorts, leave them behind for a stay at Compass Point (a favored recording destination of both Bob Marley and The Rolling Stones) and venture out on a walking food tour of the city with Tru Bahamian Food Tours, which provides guests with a fascinating history of the capital (and plenty of rum, of course). Nearly any other tropical activity you can imagine is also an option, from snorkeling to sunset cruises to stand-up paddleboarding and even submarine tours.

Learn More

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Exploring Copenhagen During Dark Season: World-Class Food, Saunas, and Culture

“You chose February to come to Denmark for the first time?” Andrea, my bartender at T37 — a sleek New Nordic cocktail bar in Copenhagen — asked, her eyes wide with disbelief. She was an expat from Spain with an instinctive aversion to Scandinavia’s virile winters. Didn’t I know, she pressed as she poured another glass of Gammel Dansk, how heavenly Copenhagen was in the summer? She painted a vivid picture of outdoor concerts, buzzing waterfronts, and a collective euphoria sparked by endless daylight and perfect weather. My reasoning must have sounded absurd, but it was sincere: I chose to come during the coldest, darkest stretch of the year out of literary reverence.

As an awkward but ardent teenager, I found a kindred spirit in Hamlet — Shakespeare’s introspective and hopelessly romantic Danish prince. Later, in an introductory philosophy course, I encountered Søren Kierkegaard, and his haunting meditation on faith and heroism, Fear and Trembling, profoundly reshaped the way I saw the world. At the bar, I promised Andrea I’d return one day to revel in Copenhagen’s vernal joys. For my first visit, I wanted cold sea winds and long, dark nights; incandescent sunsets and mornings cloaked in mist. In other words, the brooding climate evocative of my Danish literary heroes.

Winter, I discovered, brings a host of quirky delights to Copenhagen. With fewer tourists and more locals about, the city feels more intimately Danish this time of year. It’s the season of hygge, that famously untranslatable word conjuring the cozy bliss of sharing drinks in a snug pub while snow dusts the streets outside. Copenhagen’s world-class culinary scene dazzles year-round, but winter brings its own special treats: richer fishes and oysters, dark malty beers, and fastelavnsboller (cream-filled, cardamom-scented pastries traditionally enjoyed before Lent).

Winter in Copenhagen is a time to bundle up, slip a pocket-sized copy of Kierkegaard into your coat, and savor the raw, brooding charm of the colder months.

Where to eat

Copenhagen, glittering with Michelin stars, is a vaunted gastronomic capital on par with Tokyo, Paris, or New York City. Noma, crowned the world’s best restaurant five times, helped make Copenhagen the leader of the New Nordic food movement that emphasizes foraged ingredients; minimalism; and seasonal, hyper-local produce. New Nordic restaurants tend to steal the spotlight, but the city’s Italian and Japanese restaurants are equally impressive and rival the best in Manhattan. Traditional Danish cuisine — crispy fried pork belly, smørrebrød, and plenty of seafood — offers its own quiet allure. I recommend splurging on at least one meal at a New Nordic restaurant, then rounding out your culinary tour with a medley of Italian, Japanese, and traditional Danish meals.

Caronte

Photo: Johnny Motley

As a mythology nerd, I couldn’t resist stopping into Caronte — a restaurant named after Charon, the ferryman of souls in Greek and Roman lore. I intended to stay for just a drink, but the bartender and general manager, Dario, was such good company that I lingered late into the night, sampling nearly the entire menu. I’ve spent a fair amount of time in Italy, and I’ll gladly attest that Caronte’s pastas, risottos, and charcuterie hold their own against anything I’ve tasted in bella Italia. Founded by two sommeliers, the wine list is delightfully offbeat, showcasing Italian grapes like grillo, fiano, and pignolo that can be hard to find outside of Italy. Whatever else you order, don’t skip the pumpkin. I don’t typically like squash, but Caronte’s balsamic-glazed pumpkin is so delectable I’d request it as my death row meal.

Caronte: Fadet 31, 1799 København V, Denmark

Kappo Ando

Japanese and Scandinavian cuisines have always struck me as kindred spirits with a shared reverence for seafood, pared-down recipes, and a commitment to minimizing waste. Kappo Ando, helmed by Japanese chef Akiko Ando Levinsen and her Danish husband, chef Henrik Andō Levinsen, serves spectacular sashimi and maki using fish sourced locally from the North Sea. The sake list is encyclopedic. But the star here is yakitori: skewered meat delicately charred on a blazing hot grill fired with Japanese charcoal. For condiments, just a touch of salt or a kiss of house-made yuzu kosho (a citrusy chili paste).

Kappo Ando: Øster Farimagsgade 93, 2100 København, Denmark

Restaurant Levi

Photo: Levi

At Restaurant Levi, chef Gabriele Rizzo masterfully blends Japanese and Italian cuisine with hints of New Nordic flourish. Rizzo is an alum of Geranium, one of Copenhagen’s most acclaimed New Nordic restaurants, and that influence can be seen with dishes like venison garnished with fresh violets. For dessert, order the pistachio ice cream. It’s made with olive oil instead of cream and is as light and delectable as a Sicilian breeze.

Restaurant Levi: Ny Østergade 24, 1101 København, Denmark

POPL

After working at Noma, Finnish chef Toni Toivanen opened POPL, bringing the finesse, artistry, and locavorism of New Nordic cuisine to burgercraft. The classic cheeseburger is made with an organic beef patty, cheddar cheese, house-made pickles, and a whisper of light sauce. If a heavenly archetype of a smash burger exists, this is it. POPL also offers seasonal specials that lean more adventurous. When I visited, it was a venison burger draped in pine aioli. POPL’s house-made soft drinks are as thoughtful and delicate as the food — I ordered a pink lemonade steeped with cold sencha to pair with my cheeseburger.

POPL: Strandgade 108, 1401 København, Denmark

SURT

Giuseppe Oliva was an Italian sea captain in a former life. Now, Oliva is the head chef at SURT, a renowned pizzeria in Copenhagen’s Carlsberg District. Hailing from a long line of Sicilian bakers, Oliva brought his family’s generations-old sourdough starter to Denmark. The same culture, which he calls “the taste of Sicily,” leavens the crusts of his wood-fired pies. Oliva imports his tomatoes from a small farm on the slopes of Mt. Vesuvius, and they arrive like little red orbs of pure Sicilian sunshine. SURT’s wine list is a tight, thoughtful selection, featuring bold southern Italian wines to complement the pies.

SURT: Bag Elefanterne 2, 1799 København, Denmark

Where to drink in Copenhagen

Copenhagen Distillery

Copenhagen Distillery crafts some of the finest whiskey money can buy, and I say that as a whiskey writer who has sampled the finest drams in Scotland and Japan. Head distiller Lasse Öznek left a career in pharmaceutical chemistry to pursue his passion for whiskey-making, and his operation runs with the precision of an elite laboratory. When you visit the tasting room, don’t miss Bone and Blood. This whiskey is infused with deer blood and ground bones — Öznek’s homage to Danish hunting culture. It’s smokier than Ardbeg and exquisitely funky and earthy.

Copenhagen Distillery: Kløvermarksvej 70d, 2300 København, Denmark

Bird

Photo: Johnny Motley

New Nordic bravura extends seamlessly into Copenhagen’s cocktail culture. Bird is a softly lit salon with vintage decor and walls lined with vinyl that pays homage to American jazz legend Charlie “Bird” Parker. Modeled after a Japanese listening bar, Bird pre-batches all its cocktails, allowing guests to savor the music and conversation without the clatter of ice machines or shakers.

Bird: Gl. Kongevej 102, 1850 Frederiksberg, Denmark

Lidkoeb

Photo: Johnny Motley

I never quite figured out how to pronounce Lidkoeb, but it’s a mixology tour-de-force. The atmosphere strikes a balance between a moody speakeasy and a lively neighborhood bar. It’s an industry-insider spot — on the night I visited, many of the patrons were bartenders themselves. The bar boasts an impressive lineup of Danish spirits, with boutique aquavits sharing shelf space with local whiskeys and gins. Tucked upstairs is a hidden whiskey library, stocked with rare finds from the hollers of Kentucky to the hills of Scotland.

Lidkoeb: Vesterbrogade 72B, 1620 København, Denmark

Activities in Copenhagen

National Museum of Denmark

Photo: Mellanie Gandø

I relish wiling away an afternoon in a good museum, but I feel guilty spending hours indoors when the weather is nice. Fortunately, in the winter in Copenhagen, I don’t have these qualms. The National Museum of Denmark houses an authoritative collection of Viking rune stones, granite stele in which Norse warriors carved spells and epitaphs. The museum also houses fascinating exhibits on pre-historic Denmark’s fauna and geology, and the Indigenous nations of Greenland.

National Museum of Denmark: Ny Vestergade 10, 1471 København K, Denmark

Designmuseum Danmark

Photo: Designmuseum Danmark

The most delightful surprise of my trip to Copenhagen was Designmuseum Danmark, a museum devoted to design. I’ve long admired the clean, minimalist aesthetic of Scandinavian clothing brands like 66°North and Fjällräven, and this museum offered a chance to explore that tradition more deeply. Housed in an exuberant Rococo building that once served as Royal Frederik’s Hospital, the museum has been a cultural institution since 1895. Exhibits showcase ceramics, furniture, fashion, and textiles from Scandinavia as well as China and Japan.

Designmuseum Danmark: Bredgade 68, 1260 København, Denmark

CopenHot

Photo: Daniel Rasmussen / Copenhot

Few things are as restorative as lounging in a sauna while snow falls gently outside the window. CopenHot, an outdoor spa on the edge of Copenhagen, offers multiple saunas, open-air jacuzzis, and cold plunges. As you schvitz and soak, you can order a kombucha, light beer, or a ginger shot — whatever your recovery ritual demands. After a few hours at CopenHot, you’ll feel right as rain, no matter how much aquavit you downed the night before. The vibe is relaxed and communal, with a healthy mix of locals and travelers sharing in the steam-soaked serenity.

CopenHot: Refshalevej 195, 1432 København, Denmark

Where to stay

Photo: Mellanie Gandø / Ottilla

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.

Consider staying in the centrally located Carlsberg City District, which was once a self-contained company town built around the eponymous brewery that makes Denmark’s most well-known beer. A thick brick wall punctuated by gates as grand and ornate as those of a Viking chieftain’s hall still encircles the neighborhood. Despite its old-world feel, the district is well connected: a metro station just a 10-minute walk away offers easy, affordable access to the rest of Copenhagen.

Stay at Hotel Ottilia. The 19th-century building once served as the malt chamber for the Carlsberg Brewery. With weathered brick, massive concrete pillars, and exposed ceiling beams, its design is pure industrial-chic. The rooms are quiet and comfortable, and a laid-back, hostel-esque camaraderie permeates the lobby bar.

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13 of the Most Scenic, Luxurious, and Activities-Packed Resorts in Maldives

When it comes to vacationing in paradise, destinations don’t get more idyllic than Maldives. The nation’s sugar-sand beaches and impossibly turquoise seas are like a postcard come to life, only prettier. The apparent remoteness of the islands adds to the allure and makes this Indian Ocean archipelago a special place to visit, and the now-iconic overwater villas are pretty cool, too. Here’s a selection of the best resorts in Maldives.

We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend. Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.

Baros Maldives

Photo: Baros Maldives/Facebook

Pristine white-sand beaches, a canopy of lush palms, and traditional thatched roof villas await at castaway island escape Baros Maldives, which has welcomed visitors since 1973 and won The World Travel Awards’ Most Romantic Resort in the World an impressive seven times. A slew of dining experiences caters to the culinary crowd, including a sunset dinner cruise for two aboard a “nooma” a traditional wooden Maldivian sailing vessel. Back at the resort, paddleboard across the lagoon, snorkel with Hawksbill turtles on the house reef, or sit in on one of the marine biology program presentations at the Marine Center. Depending on the season, nightly rates for seven different accommodation categories (pick from sunrise or sunset, beach or ocean views) range from $463 for a deluxe villa near the beach to $1,200 for a water villa with a private pool.

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Cheval Blanc Randheli

Photo: Cheval Blanc

With its combination of lush garden jungle and turquoise waters, Cheval Blanc Randheli is an island paradise perfected. Located north of Malé in the Noonu Atoll, this second hotel venture from Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy has opulent villas and a spa set on its own island offering dedicated Guerlain treatments. The resort even has a signature fragrance created by the head perfumer at Dior. From culinary classes and full moon yoga to the brand new surf simulator, guest experiences here are endless. Nightly rates fall across nine levels according to the time of the year and span from $2,200 (May through September) to $5,800 for a one-bedroom water villa (December through January).

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Furaveri Maldives

Photo: Furaveri Maldives/Facebook

Set on a natural island in the northwestern Raa Atoll, scuba diving and swimming with manta rays are the highlights at Furaveri Maldives. Its 107 villas and overwater bungalows are dreamy: Imagine slipping off your private deck to snorkel over the coral reef or walking a few steps to Amigos at Furumathi for a sundowner cocktail. While an Ayurvedic treatment from the spa inside its dedicated Wellness Village will leave you relaxed for days, Insta-gold photo ops await, too. Don’t miss the sea swing or schools of baby blacktip reef sharks that can often be seen swimming in the shallows. With nightly rates ranging from $259 for a Garden Villa to $649 for a Sunset Ocean Pool Villa during their low season, Furaveri is a five-star luxury at an accessible price point.

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Anantara Dhigu

Photo: Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort

Thanks to a range of surf breaks on the island and nearby, Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort is a favorite among the international surfer crowds. Watch expert-level riders as they charge house reef wave ‘Veli Left’ over a beer from Dhoni bar or sign up for a beginner lesson with Tropicsurf coaches François and Coline, who also run guided trips to outer reef breaks and farther afield to North Malé Atoll. With its pure white sands, crystal-clear blue waters and stunning views (especially from the infinity pool), nightly rates at Anantara Dhigu during low season range from $594 for a beachfront sunrise villa to $1,197 for an overwater pool suite, including breakfast and dinner.

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Kudadoo Maldives Private Island

Photo: Kudadoo Maldives Private Island Resort

Encircled by a private beach and clear waters as far as the eye can see, the views are as stunning as you would expect them to be from this Robinson Crusoe style eco-paradise. With just 15 villa residences, the entirely solar-powered Kudadoo Maldives Private Island makes for an uber-exclusive intimate getaway with prices to match. Nightly rates start at $3,800, although Beach Pool Villas at sister property Hurawalhi Island Resort (home to the impressive 5.8 Undersea restaurant) begin at $750. You can walk the circumference of Kudadoo in 10 minutes, but it’s the underwater coral reef, home to Maldives’ largest population of turtles and mantas, that will keep you captivated. Being adults-only, it’s also a favorite among honeymooners and wedding parties.

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Amilla

Photo: Amilla Beach Villa Residences

The chic overwater villas at Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences are dreamy, but guests are also going crazy for a new glamping experience at this ultra-luxe hotel in Baa Atoll. With a nightly rate starting at $750, three curated bubble tent packages are currently offered, including “Bubbles and Stars,” which comes with Champagne and a private chef dinner. For additional luxury amenities at Amilla, there are personalized Rolls Royce beach buggies, an overwater yoga pavilion, and a spa set among 400-year-old banyan trees.

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COMO Maalifushi

Photo: COMO Hotels

Located in Maldives’ southern reaches, COMO Maalifushi is the first and only resort to open in Thaa Atoll. The atoll is home to a gorgeous stretch of beach and house reef teeming with colorful fish and corals. While Thaa Atoll is well known for its diving spots, it’s also a great place to see whale sharks, and during November and April, guests can take part in a guided night snorkel with these gentle giants. Sophisticated and beautifully styled, 65 villas, including beachfront suites and a two-story residence, are positioned around the island and cost upwards of $1,1000 a night. However, anyone interested in WFM (Working From Maldives) might like to jump on the new month-long package, which starts at $16,000.

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Lily Beach Resort & Spa

Photo: Booking.com

Located at Huvahendhoo, the five-star all-inclusive Lily Beach Resort & Spa has two outdoor pools and five different dining options. But what really sets this property apart is its diving center. Guests can book ahead to enrol in a PADI course, or book casual day dives at various near-by reefs.

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Raffles Maldives Meradhoo

Photo: Raffles Maldives Meradhoo

At Raffles Maldives Meradhoo, the experiences are spectacularly five-star, and the luxury is unparalleled. Set on far-flung Gaafu Alifu Atoll, the palm tree-lined private island is home to some of the largest overwater villas and residences in Maldives, with nightly rates starting at $1,750. Take a guided snorkeling tour of the house reef with your dedicated marine butler or enjoy a whale shark encounter with marine biologist Giulia Pellizzato. The newest addition to Raffles Maldives’ guest offerings, though, is back on dry land. Recently opened, The Wine House features over 400 labels and tasting experiences, ranging from a chocolate and wine pairing to a Champagne flight.

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The Nautilus Maldives

Photo: The Nautilus Maldives

With its swaying palms and thatched pavilions, The Nautilus Maldives in Baa Atoll is comprised of 26 houses across the island, each with a private pool, direct reef access, and postcard-perfect views. Wellness is a top priority with July 2021 being dedicated as the resort’s first Holistic Spa Month to coincide with the launch of experiential journeys inspired by Taoist practices and Tibetan philosophies. Travelers looking for thrills will love the 12,000-foot solo or tandem skydiving experience. Despite the nightly rates also being sky-high (they start at $3,800) Nautilus really is the resort that bucket-list dreams are made of.

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Mercure Maldives Kooddoo

Photo: Booking.com

Mercure Maldives Kooddoo has 43 Over-Water and 25 Beachfront villas and one of the most appealing all-inclusive packages out of all of the Maldives resorts. Another major selling point is its spa which is marine-themed and very popular with past guests.

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Meeru Island Resort & Spa

Photo: Meeru Island Resort & Spa/Facebook

Despite being the third-largest resort in Maldives, Meeru Island retains a relaxed atmosphere and some of the most approachable pricing with nightly specials from $518 in low season and $716 at peak times. From the freshwater swimming pools and nine-hole golf course, diving, and water sports centers to the spa (of which there are two) plus a long list of excursions, you will be hard-pressed to run out of things to do here. Located at the water’s edge and a popular meet-up spot, head to Dhoni Bar for drinks and the best sunset views on the island.

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Pullman Maldives All-Inclusive Resort

Photo: Booking.com

Rated one of the best all-inclusive Maldives luxury resorts, Pullman is located in southern Maldives in Gaafu Alifu Atoll. The resort has six restaurants to choose from including a vegan eatery. They also offer a huge range of watersports, outdoor group activities, and a modern fitness center.

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Getting to Maldives

Getting there from the United States takes time. At a minimum, expect upwards of 19 hours and at least two flights depending on layovers via cities such as Istanbul or Dubai.

Resort staff will be on hand to greet you upon landing at Velana International Airport and assist with onward connections. Some guesthouses on local islands can be reached by public ferry, but it’s essential to book ahead for private resort transfers. A seaplane ride (20 to 60 minutes) with Trans Maldivian Airways adds a touch of wow to any arrival experience; however, many resorts can also arrange speedboat transfers (15 minutes to two hours) and domestic flights or a combination of the two.

Where to stay in Maldives

With 1,192 coral islands and more than 150 eye-catching private island resorts spread out across North and South Malé Atolls, transfer times, activities, and budgets all play a part in deciding where to stay. South Malé Atoll comprises 30 islands and is considered one of the best places to snorkel with whale sharks year-round. You’ll find a higher concentration of resorts in North Malé Atoll, home to UNESCO biosphere reserve, Baa Atoll, the world’s largest manta ray feeding station. Waves in the North and Central Atolls draw surfers when swells pick up from April through October.

Whether coming to scuba dive, bliss out on a spa getaway, or take the honeymoon of a lifetime, here are the 10 of the most scenic and peaceful resorts in the Maldives.

Which is the best Maldives island to stay on?

The best Maldives island to stay on is dependent on what kind of vacation you are looking for and who you are traveling with. If you are looking for adult-only Maldives resorts, using that filter on a platform such as Booking.com, is a quick way to find a Maldives resort that suits your needs. Plan a trip to Maldives far in advance and do research — it’s a trip of a lifetime after all.

What is the average cost of a trip to the Maldives?

A Maldives vacation on a budget is possible, but you should budget for around $3,500 for one of the Maldives luxury resorts. One of the most expensive elements will likely be the flight. From there you can plan ahead, go in the low season, and shop around for one of the Maldives all-inclusive resorts which often have decent package deals.

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Marie Kondo Pivots to Travel With New ‘The Best You’ Campaign

Visitors to the Tokyo Tower on a recent sunny afternoon may have found themselves doing a double-take towards the observation deck. There, clad in her trademark minimalist, elegant, and softly feminine attire accented by a sleek, straight bob falling chin-length, was the purveyor of simplistic joys herself, Marie Kondo, doing the robot dance. The unusual scene was a testament to Kondo stepping outside her bubble, though it’s all part of a larger plan. Kondo recently partnered with tour and experience curator Klook to produce an itinerary and video series called “The Best You,” in which Kondo travels to Tokyo and elsewhere in Japan in search of her freshest and most authentic self. Her aim is simple: to help others find a new self through travel.

“Truly, for me, Kurukuru’s message itself is very simple, to find a sparking joy experience anytime, anywhere, so this time my message of sparking joy, which I always convey, has a very strong affinity, and I am very happy to be working together” Kondo told Matador.

Kurukuru, a partner in the campaign promotes joyful experiences anytime, anywhere – and the partner’s name became a central ethos to the campaign. The Japanese concept of kurukuru, which roughly translates to “spinning around” – and rather than sowing chaos it’s intended to help a person find joy and excitement. Klook and Kondo came together to launch a Marie Kondo-themed itinerary in Japan, aimed at US travelers, that includes the same robot dance lesson she took, along with a Samurai experience and a Kintsugi Experience, which involves repairing broken ceramics — perfectly in-line with Kondo’s “joy sparking” mantra.

Sparking joy through travel: Marie Kondo’s take on the vagabond life

Photo courtesy of Klook

“I really love the idea of finding my most authentic self,” Kondo says, noting that through travel, she’s able to “refresh herself and recenter her mind” as she “absorbs the energy of the destination she travels to.”

Indeed, the internationally best-selling author of 2011’s The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up found herself in some novel situations while working on “The Best You” project. In addition to her robot dance shenanigans, she practiced Japanese swordfighting and experienced the chaos of Harajuku, central Tokyo, in her quest to find her best self.

Marie Kondo’s current definition of finding joy has evolved to encompass a broader, more dynamic view, particularly influenced by her participation in the Best of You campaign. She now sees travel as a powerful tool for self-rediscovery and transformation—what she describes as a “gateway to becoming the version of yourself you didn’t know you were looking for.” Kondo expresses a deep love for the idea of finding her most authentic self through travel, feeling that each destination offers a chance to absorb new energy and become a refreshed, evolved version of herself.

A key part of this evolving philosophy is being open to new experiences that touch the heart. Kondo actively embraces unfamiliar moments, such as participating in a “金 works” session where she performed a robot dance at Tokyo Tower—an experience she describes as helping her uncover “the best side of me.” This openness aligns with her original “spark joy” mindset but now branches into new territories, blending seamlessly with the ethos of

Ultimately, Kondo’s pursuit of joy now includes elements of personal growth, mental renewal, and transformation. She highlights how travel allows her to refresh and recenter her mind, deepening the sense of clarity and wonder that joy brings. While tidying remains at the heart of her philosophy, Kondo now embraces joy as something that can also be found through exploration, reinvention, and the uplifting experiences that life—and travel—have to offer.

More about The Best You campaign

Photo courtesy of Klook

The Best You campaign, launched by Klook—a leading platform for travel and experiences in Asia—is a global initiative that reimagines travel as a journey of personal transformation. As Kondo herself found, travel helped her learn to “always be open to new experiences, to never stop searching for things that touch my heart.”

The campaign encourages individuals to discover previously unexplored aspects of themselves through meaningful experiences – not just traveling to tick off a list or to see a place, but to actually pursue personal growth. By seeking clarity, joy, and growth, the campaign posits that you can travel not just as a getaway, but as a catalyst for rediscovery and emotional connection.

“I’m coming back to where it all started, to discover what can spark joy in this new phase of my life,” Kondo says. “I want to always be open to new experiences, to never stop searching for things that touch my heart,”

Kondo embraces this new phase in her life by exploring unfamiliar experiences that bring joy and self-discovery. She partnered with Klook to curated an itinerary called “Walk in Marie Kondo’s Footsteps” for those visiting Japan. This includes experiences like a samurai workshop for balance, a kintsugi session to appreciate imperfection, and robot dance classes similar to Kondo’s. The campaign also features a personality quiz that helps users discover one of eight travel archetypes, unlocking personalized experiences tailored to their journey of self-discovery.

Watch Marie Kondo’s “The Best You” episode below.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=VP9c7Lq20...

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17 Airbnbs in Istanbul to Experience the Best of the City

There aren’t many cities that straddle two continents. If that phenomenon alone isn’t enough to lure you to Istanbul, Türkiye’s largest city, how about the promise of a purifying Hamman and a scenic cruise past the iconic Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque? Istanbul’s accommodation scene is just as thrilling as the city itself with luxurious lofts filling centuries-old buildings. Here are the best Airbnbs in Istanbul, Türkiye, with roof decks, secret gardens, and unique decor.

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

We hope you love the Airbnb Istanbul 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.

Istanbul Airbnbs near Galata TowerIstanbul Airbnbs near Istiklal Avenue and the Blue MosqueAirbnbs in Cihangir, IstanbulIstanbul Airbnb in Kadıköy and Büyükada, AdalarIstanbul Airbnbs near Galata Tower19th-century luxury loft with patio near Galata TowerPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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Recently renovated under the care of church renovation artists, this unique loft is presented with historic frescoes. High ceilings, vintage furnishings, and sublime fabrics add comfort to the property while the yard is perfect for morning coffee. Steps from the Galata Tower in the Beyoğlu district, this one-of-a-kind Airbnb is in the touristic heart of Istanbul.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $275 per night

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Amazing triplex with seven bedrooms, five bathrooms, and a JacuzziPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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A stone’s throw from the funky Karaköy harborside neighborhood, this Istanbul, Türkiye, Airbnb is ideal for larger groups. Divided into separate units, the property will appeal to those traveling as a couple of families. The roof terrace is rigged with a two-person hot tub that grants unbeatable views over the city.

Fourteen guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $600 per night

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Penthouse with 360-degree viewsPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis loft-style apartment with gorgeous vaulted ceilings claims the top floor of a heritage building in the Galata enclave. It has a furnished private terrace with views skirting the rooftops and reaching over the Bosporus Strait. The principal room has its own balcony and a luxurious clawfoot tub whereas the second is tucked away in the attic – kids love this spot. Speaking of which, the host can provide toddler and baby gear.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $395 per night

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Istanbul Airbnb with tower and mosque viewsPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThere’s no need to cough up the fee for the Galata Tower while staying at this super-centric apartment: Istanbul’s famous landmark is practically in your bedroom. Step out onto the rear patio – yes, there are two – and you’ll be greeted with a panoramic view of the Bosporus. The woody interiors and exposed brickwork create a calming ambiance, especially at night. Taking a long bubble bath in the stone soaker is mandatory.

Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $240 per night

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Two-bedroom apartment near Galata TowerPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosTen steps from the tower and five minutes from Istiklal Street – it doesn’t get better than that in Istanbul. This charming bolthole is located on the top floor of a historic mansion although the decor and amenities are as modern as you’ll find in Türkiye’s cultural capital. Note that it’s an 80-step climb to reach this Guest Favorite Airbnb. The level of comfort and views make it worth it, even during summer heatwaves.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $437 per night

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Istanbul Airbnbs near Istiklal Avenue and the Blue MosqueIrini Seaview HousePhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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Located in Sultanahmet 150 meters from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, Irini Seaview House is one of the most family-friendly vacation rentals in Istanbul. The townhouse spreads across three levels with the roof terrace providing heart-stopping Bosphorus views. With a daily maid service included in the rate, you can look forward to sinking into the freestanding tub after a day of touring the sights.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $221 per night

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Beautiful apartment with Bosphorus views, IstanbulPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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Conveniently sited for walking to the Sultanahmet neighborhood and the Grand Bazaar, this Istanbul Airbnb with sea views is tucked away down a quiet street. The shed roof in the kitchen adds a kookiness while all three double bedrooms feature exposed brickwork. The terrace is prepped with deckchairs where you can sip Turkish tea and drink up Bosphorus panoramas.

Seven guests, three bedrooms
Price: $132 per night

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Old Town apartment minutes from Hagia SophiaPhoto: AirbnbPhotos: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosBeat the long lines at the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia while staying at this cozy one-bedroom rental. Consider taking your morning coffee (or Turkish tea) up to the shared rooftop terrace for a priceless perspective of both landmarks. The place has a small but well-equipped kitchen with a washing machine and a comfortable lounge where you can dive into your haul of market-bought confectionery and other delights.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $235 per night

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Elegant and modern Airbnb in Istanbul Old TownPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosSavor sea views from this luxury apartment near Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque and a strollable distance to this duo of unmissable Istanbul sights. The rental unit has a fully-equipped kitchen – which realistically isn’t going to get a look-in when you’re surrounded by Istanbul’s culinary hotspots – and a huge hot tub in the bedroom. It’s designed for a couple but kids could always bunk on the couches.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $326 per night

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Airbnbs in Cihangir, IstanbulChill garden house in the heart of the cityPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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This pet-friendly Airbnb in Istanbul with a garden is teeming with bohemian character and zen vibes. Swing in the hammock or bask on the couch until nightfall when you can relocate to the covered yard complete with further botanicals and colorful art. Interiors are fashionably appointed and there’s a projector available for a Netflix binge over a homemade meze.

Seven guests, three bedrooms
Price: $320 per night

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Sunrise – panoramic loft and terrace BBQPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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Sure, you’ll need to tackle four floors to get there but the reward is worth it at this loft Airbnb in central Istanbul, Türkiye. The presence of a suspended egg chair, a swinging dining bench, and panoramic views from the roof deck elude the sense of flying. You’ll have Cihangir’s awesome eateries right on your doorstep in addition to your own grill.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $350 per night

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Artsy Airbnb on Cukurcuma close to cafesPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis dreamy apartment rental in Istanbul exists in real life, it’s not an AI hoax. It has a beautifully bohemian lounge with an oversized couch, a balcony furnished for dining, and two bedrooms with macrame wall hangings. One has a reading nook overlooking the swirl of everyday life below while the larger suite has a wooden soaking tub. The Cukurcuma Street address is handy for cafe hopping and antiquing.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $320 per night

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Stylish den minutes to Taksim SquarePhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThe ink’s barely dry on the listing for this new Airbnb in Cihangir yet it’s already garnered Guest Favorite status. First of all, this isn’t your typical apartment; it’s a detached 100-year-old house spread over four floors. Each en suite bedroom sits on a different level with the kitchen and living room claiming the other two. Furnishings were selected based on comfort and aesthetic while the kitchen is designed for convenience and socializing.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $277 per night

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Istanbul Airbnbs in Kadıköy and Büyükada, AdalarA unique experience at BüyükadaPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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Swap the museums for a night at this two-story Ottoman “köşk” built by a Greek architect in the 19th century. Period furnishings fill the villa while expansive windows allow the island air to circulate freely. Rental includes full access to the fruit-tree-laden garden. This Istanbul Airbnb on Büyükada is a 10-minute walk from the harbor where regular ferries connect to the mainland.

Six guests, five bedrooms
Price: $130 per night

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Colorful Airbnb in the Asian side of IstanbulPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhotos: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis top-rated Kadıköy rental is located on a quiet street within walking distance of the neighborhood’s popular restaurants and cafes. It’s simply furnished with a cute galley kitchen and fresh turquoise accents which pop as the sunlight pours in through the huge windows. The seaside promenade and ferry port are each an easy 10-minute walk from the rental, from where you can plan an outing to the Adalar Islands.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $170 per night

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Garden studio in the heart of KadıköyPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis tiny house Airbnb in the Asian side of Istanbul is compact inside but the private patio more than makes up for it. Fringed with bamboo and strewn with trinkets, this is a zenful spot to plan a day exploring Kadıköy and the Princes Islands of Türkiye. The kitchen is strategically designed to maximize space and there’s even a washing machine. Given the size, it’s better suited to a solo wanderer or a couple who intend on spending most of their stay exploring.

Two guests, one bedrooms
Price: $80 per night

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Adalar Island getawayPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhotos: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis spellbinding apartment is located on Heybeliada Island, the westerly neighbor of Büyükada. The views hog the limelight with the heated, screened-in patio ensuring comfort in any season. You’ll want to experience the scenery at all hours of day – and perhaps stretch to a sunrise coffee to complete the experience. The rest of the unit is simply attired yet functional and homely.

Four guests, one bedrooms
Price: $70 per night

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Keinemusik Brought EDM to Saudi Arabia’s AlUla in Ways Never Seen Before

When Keinemusik took the stage in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, for its Kloud series debut, the Berlin-based collective wasn’t just performing — it was helping redefine the cultural and musical identity of a region long underrepresented in the global electronic music circuit. Hosted at a UNESCO World Heritage site and powered by MDLBEAST, the event marked a turning point for Saudi Arabia’s emerging creative economy and its aspirations on the international stage.

AlUla, a desert landscape rich with Nabataean heritage and dramatic sandstone formations, provided an atmospheric backdrop for Keinemusik’s multisensory showcase. The Kloud series — known for integrating digital art with sonic experience — transformed this ancient site into a canvas for modern expression. MDLBEAST, the region’s foremost entertainment engine, described the event as a multisensory cultural moment, reinforcing its strategic vision to position Saudi Arabia as a serious player in the global music scene.

The success of the event illustrates two converging trajectories. First, Saudi Arabia’s push to cultivate a homegrown cultural infrastructure capable of supporting international artistry — evidenced by MDLBEAST’s growing portfolio of festivals like Soundstorm and Balad Beast. Second, the global electronic music community’s openness to expanding beyond its traditional urban centers into new cultural and geographic frontiers.

The AlUla debut also fits into a broader recalibration of the electronic music landscape, increasingly influenced by African sounds and artists. The rise of Afro house, gqom, and amapiano is reshaping festival lineups, club rotations, and collaborative studio projects. Names like Black Coffee, AMÉMÉ, Gina Jeanz, and Shimza are no longer peripheral; they are central to the genre’s present and future.

Keinemusik’s landmark show is more than a successful night in the desert. It’s a case study in where the industry is headed: toward more cross-cultural partnerships, genre-blurring performances, and location-specific storytelling. For Saudi Arabia, it’s an invitation to engage with — and shape — the next chapter of electronic music’s evolution.

And for artists and fans alike, it’s a reminder that the future of music may lie as much in ancient places as it does in futuristic sounds.

More like thisInsider GuidesThe 4 Spots You Have to See in AlUla, Saudi Arabia’s First UNESCO World Heritage Site

UFOs, Folklore, and Fears: Welcome to Japan’s Alien Tourism Hot Spots

If you believe the celestial stories told by many locals in the Fukushima prefecture of Japan, extraterrestrials make frequent visits to the village of Iino and nearby Senganmori Mountain.

Now, locals are leaning in, and terrestrial visitors can follow in alien footsteps while visiting attractions built around those tales, plus other reports. And who knows? Maybe those strange visitors will stop long enough for travelers to see them one day.

UFO stands for unidentified flying object, unless you prefer the more current terminology of UAP (unidentified anomalous phenomena, or unidentified aerial phenomena). Tourism built around UFOs is not a new concept. Venues from Roswell, NM, to Rendlesham Forest, UK, invite starry-eyed tourists to examine the scenes of reported landings and extraterrestrial encounters.

Kofu, Japan, and nearby Mount Fuji, are UFO hot spots within Japan. Photo: Mei Yi/Shutterstock

In recent years, this concept has taken hold in Japan, with destinations blending national folklore and reports of strange sightings into New Age vacation options created to bring travelers to struggling rural areas.

Currently, the main, self-promoting focal points for Japanese UAP tourism are Iino in Fukushima Prefecture north of Tokyo, Kofu in Yamanashi Prefecture to the west of Tokyo, and Hakui, sitting to the north on the Sea of Japan.

Why is UFO tourism growing in Japan?

 

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Robin Perreault is the director of the Japan chapter of MUFON: the Mutual UFO Network. He says the country is a relative newcomer on the international UAP scene. “As far as its association with MUFON, Japan has not traditionally been a hotspot over the years,” Perreault explained. “Only recently have reports started on a fairly regular basis. We’re seeing one or two a month now.”

Japan’s rich folklore both inspires and anchors Japan’s growing UAP culture, laying a fertile foundation for those incoming UAP sightings – and the tourist destinations growing up around them.

“There are ancient stories of the original Yellow Emperor and a Mother Creator that descended from the sky in flying craft,” Perreault says. It was enough to grant Japan its own brief episode of the well-known show Ancient Aliens, aired in 2017.

As for the legitimacy of these more recent Japanese sightings, it’s up to the individual to make a decision. While it’s safe to assume that anyone willing to travel to the beautiful green wilds of rural Japan to visit a New Age-centric UFO attraction sides with the believers, some skeptics think people often see what they wish to see.

That includes Nick West, a science writer for the Center of Inquiry, a US-based nonprofit that promotes science and leads efforts to combat and debunk pseudoscience. He’s also the author of the Japanese edition of the conspiracy-debunking book Escaping the Rabbit Hole. West studied the events that inspired these Japanese mystery spots and wonders if so many eyes looking to the skies are bound to spot something to report, eventually.

Some skeptics think believers will see whatever they want to see when it comes to aerial phenomena. Photo: etaearth/Shutterstock

His prime examples are the frequent Iino sightings and the village’s proximity to the Fukushima nuclear disaster site. Now internationally famous after the 2011 earthquake and reactor explosions, Fukushima is already a grim dark tourism destination, with countless photos taken of the reactor’s remnants and the surrounding countryside. West assumes any lights or other unidentified subject matter showing up on those images are immediately marked down to UAPs without much evaluation.

“There’s everything from tourism photos to webcam images taken of [the Fukushima reactor site] every day,” West says. “With the lore that builds up around a nuclear disaster site combining with the stories of UFOs over Iino and Senganmori, any light or anything out of focus will be credited to a sighting. When it’s important to an area to have UFO sightings,” he adds, “you’re going to find UFO sightings.”

As for Kofu, Mount Fuji, and any other region of Japan looking to build itself into a UFO Mecca, West says fishing for ET-minded tourists is not a new idea.

Alien tourism is nothing new, as seen in Roswell New Mexico. Photo: Kit Leong/Shutterstock

“As for Japan’s new status as a UAP hotbed, I’d draw parallels to concentrations of public sightings over the years from Mexico, Russia and Belgium,” West added. “I credit the clustering of reports to believers wanting to participate in the craze, or changing local superstitions into alien legends.”

While West stands in as the skeptic in the otherworldly claims from Iino and Kofu, there is one major player in the Land of the Rising Sun that isn’t dismissing the locals’ claims of UAP action: the government.

The Japanese government clearly takes the ongoing UAP reports very seriously. On May 28, 2024, members of the national legislature of Japan met to form an 80-plus member, bipartisan body to investigate increased UAP sightings within the country, especially around Fukushima and Iino. The group is chaired by Yasukazu Hamada, Affairs Leader of the Liberal Democratic Party.

 

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While the UFO festivals in Kofu and the museums in Iino and Hakui bring in enthusiasts hoping to catch a glimpse of a visiting craft, the new governmental body is not so amused. It claims one of its major goals is to lock in on possible national security threats of UAP reports over nuclear reactor sites.

Still, any traveler looking to explore UAP activity in the farther flung corners of Japan likely shares the open mind and curious spirit expressed by former defense minister Yasukazu Hamada, when Japan’s government established the new investigative body.

“It is extremely irresponsible of us to be resigned to the fact that something is unknowable,” he said, “and to keep turning a blind eye to the unidentified.”

These are Japan’s top UFO sites for those ready to add a unique, niche destination to their Japan travel itineraries.

Iino and Senganmori Mountain

 

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Iino calls itself the UFO Village and is home to the Iino UFO Museum. Built to resemble a hybrid of a pagoda and flying saucer, the museum celebrates persistent reports of strange lights and visitations throughout the area. Most reports are centered around the misty climes of Senganmori Mountain, a cone-shaped rock the locals say was built by aliens as a visitation point. In addition to supposed artifacts and displays of the crafts and creatures some say stopped by for a bit, the space is also used as a meeting point for UFO events. Considering the village of Iino saw a steady decrease in population over the years, any attention and revenue the museum brings to the region is rain in the desert.

Iino UFO Museum: Otegamimori-1-299 Iinomachi Aoki, Fukushima, 960-1303, Japan

Kofu and UFOs around Mount Fuji

 

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The UAP attractions at Kofu in Yamanashi Prefecture feed off the mystique of nearby iconic Mount Fuji. And 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the country’s most famous alleged UFO incident.

In February 1975, two elementary school boys reported seeing a “glowing orange object” land in a vineyard. They claimed that a human-type figure exited the craft, saying it had dark brown skin and was dressed in a silver suit. Authorities investigated the site and found two melted concrete spots and radioactivity levels slightly above normal. Multiple reports of flying saucers preceded claims, but this particular incident is often considered the country’s most credible.

To commemorate that close encounter, Kofu declared itself “UFO City” for 2025, with a schedule of events listed throughout the calendar to celebrate the tale and, hopefully, boost the towns economy while revitalizing it as a tourist destination.

The Cosmo Isle Hakui Space and UFO Museum

 

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Like its related attractions in Iino and Kofu, the Cosmo Isle Hakui Space and UFO Museum in Ishikawa Prefecture was established to bring more tourism yen to its surrounding economy. Unlike those rival UAP hotspots, Cosmo Isle blends very earthly relics of the human space program with more fantastical looks at possible visitors from outside the solar system. A NASA Mars rover waits alongside Soviet space capsules, while displays examine Japan’s history of UAP sightings stand nearby.

Cosmo Isle Hakui: Japan, 925-0027 Ishikawa, Hakui, Tsurutamachi, Menda−２５

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A Caribbean Island Loved by Royals Will Soon Be Easier to Visit From the US

The average US traveler probably can’t point to this island on a map. But that’s totally understandable, as it has just 12,000 residents, needs no traffic lights, and doesn’t have a major airport. But that’s about to change.

The tiny Caribbean island of Nevis is set to embark on a major expansion of the Nevis airport (Vance W. Amory International Airport) this year; financing was recently secured and confirmed by the Nevis Island Administration. In a recent statement, an advisor to the Premier of Nevis on Investment confirmed the expansion is underway and expects it to create hundreds of jobs on the island.

The Nevis airport expansion is expected to include major changes so the airport can accommodate larger commercial flights, and officials confirmed the goal is to receive commercial flights from the US (and accept larger flights from nearby islands). Additions will include a new 5,000-foot runway, new lighting, a hangar and place to refuel, and a much larger terminal.

Currently, reaching the small island roughly 200 miles southeast of Puerto Rico is somewhat difficult for travelers from the US. It requires flying to St. Kitts from Miami, Atlanta, Charlotte, or New York, then taking a water taxi or ferry to Nevis. The island hopes to increase its tourism, which is slowly growing. St. Kitts and Nevis saw 101,484 inbound visitors in 2020, down from 177,278 in 2019. But Nevis sees only a small fraction of those visitors. For example, in 2023, Nevis itself saw only 14,388 visitors, but more than 800,000 visited St. Kitts — almost entirely as single-day cruise ship passengers.

The airport expansion is expected to be started shortly, as of April 2025, but no completion date has yet been announced.

What is Nevis known for?

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For travelers from the UK, Nevis is most well-known as the preferred vacation destination of the late Princess Diana of the royal family. But for most travelers, it’s known for its lack of crowds and generally clean, pristine beaches. Here’s what you’ll want to do if you make it to the tiny island.

Relax on Pinney’s Beach

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Pinney’s Beach is Nevis’ most famous stretch of sand, known for its golden shoreline, calm waters, and laid-back beach bars. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, or sampling local rum punch with a view of St. Kitts across the channel. If you arrive by ferry from St. Kitts at the Charlestown pier, it’s just a one-mile walk to the beach, which takes about 20-30 minutes. Taxis are also available, and take only about five minutes.

Visit the Nevis Botanical Gardens

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As you might expect from the island’s location, Nevis has fantastic growing conditions for a huge array of plant species. And the five-acre Botanical Gardens of Nevis is home to hundreds of those plants, including tropical flowers, orchids, water lilies, and even a bird aviary. There’s also a really cool “Rainforest Conservatory” with parrots, waterfalls, and a recreated Mayan temple — an unexpected but very unique spot you won’t want to miss. The garden’s hours vary seasonally, but it’s generally open from 10 AM to 4 PM, three or four days a week.

The Botanical Gardens of Nevis: Montpelier Estates, Nevis, St. Kitts & Nevis

Hike Nevis Peak

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The island’s terrain is dominated by Nevis Peak, a dormant volcano that dramatically rises from the center of the island to an elevation of 3,232 feet above sea level. The hike to the summit passes through lush rainforests and rewards visitors who don’t mind a little sweat with panoramic views of the island and sea beyond. It starts near the Gingerland police station and is about three miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 2,100 feet. For most people, it takes three to four hours to finish. Start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat.

Nevis Peak trailhead: near 4CPJ+674, St Kitts &, Stonyhill, St. Kitts & Nevis

Soak in historic hot springs

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The Bath Hotel was built in 1778 next to the adjacent hot springs, making it the first hotel in the Caribbean. The nearby natural pools are at a temperature of 104 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit, and were a popular wellness destination for British aristocrats in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Today, the springs are open to the public and popular with both locals and visitors. It’s a communal experience, since the pools are free to visit and and get fairly busy (busy for Nevis, anyway). There’s a small changing area, but otherwise, they’re not too fancy, so bring everything you need. You can reach them by walking right from the ferry station to the edge of Charleston, then taking a right at the fork toward Bath Village. The entire walk takes about 15 minutes. The springs are open 24 hours a day.

Nevis Hot Springs: 49MF+9G8, Unnamed Road, Charlestown, St Kitts & Nevis

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The Most Breathtaking Airbnbs in Jamaica

Bob Marley (and thousands of cliche high school yearbook quotes) once said, “love the life you live. Live the life you love.” It’s impossible not to love your life when you’re in Jamaica. The small Caribbean island is known not only as the birthplace of Bob Marley and reggae music, but also the home of pristine beaches, epic waterfalls, and of course, some of the best rum and coffee you’ve ever tasted. Where you stay plays a huge role in your island experience, so choosing the right accommodation is crucial. From historic villas to modern mansions, these are the luxurious Airbnbs in Jamaica you should bookmark for your next trip.

Traveling to The Caribbean? Check out Matador’s accommodations guides: The Coolest, Cheapest Airbnbs in the Caribbean This Luxury Puerto Rico Airbnb Has the Best Views in Rincón The 7 Best Artvillas in Costa Rica That You Can Book on Airbnb

We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Full-service villa with private chef and butlerPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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If your goal is to show up, kick back, and get some serious pampering for a few days, this is the villa for you. Tradewinds is one of the most luxurious Airbnbs in Jamaica, coming with the services of an in-house chef, butler, housekeeper, and chauffeur, so you truly don’t have to worry about anything except relaxing. You’ll even be greeted at the airport by the Club Mobay VIP service and brought directly to the villa. The house has views of the golf courses and the coast — with complimentary membership to the three neighboring golf courses — and outdoor dining areas with an al-fresco wet bar and BBQ.

Ten guests, five bedrooms
Price: $2,119 per night

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Staying in this 5,000 square-foot villa is as close as you’ll get to feeling like you’re living in the jungle. But with a touch more luxury, of course. Sitting beneath the palm trees just off Seven Mile Beach, this house has a private pool, and a terrace with loungers where you can enjoy the combination of ocean breeze and bowing palm fronds. The villa also includes use of water sports equipment like kayaks and sailboats.

Ten guests, five bedrooms
$1,575 per night

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Elegant villa above the treetopsPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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One of the most convenient Airbnbs in Jamaica, this villa is located just minutes from the airport in Montego Bay, and has a swimming pool, tennis court, and even a private chef. All you have to provide are the groceries. The house itself is defined by its elegant archways connecting the open living spaces, and from throughout the property you’ll have stunning views of the ocean. Many rooms open onto covered terraces, where you can enjoy the views from above the treetops.

Twelve guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,429 per night

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A glamorous private home overlooking a golf course and the ocean, this villa’s views are the best of both worlds. The furnishings are a combination of antique Asian and tropical colonial decor, making for a truly unique aesthetic. It’s also part of the Spring Farm at Rose Hall gated community, meaning you’ll have access to the beach club’s white sand beach, swimming pool, and bar.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $415 per night

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This beach-themed apartment is perfect for a small family. It’s just blocks away from a park and playground, and opens onto a spacious backyard. The apartment’s most eye-catching feature is the shared infinity pool on the pool deck, where you can spend the whole day relaxing and enjoying the ocean views.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $169 per night

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This retreat will introduce you to a greener, more lush side of Jamaica. Silver Hill sits in the Blue Mountains, between Portland and St. Andrew, on what was once the Old Silver Hill Estate and Old Jamaica Spa. The 25-acre property includes a small coffee plantation and two acres of gardens. Guests will have access to walking trails through the forest, and a patio facing the Cinchona Gardens and Top Hill.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $115 per night

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Designer all-inclusive Airbnb in Montego BayPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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If you’re looking for a traditional vacation filled with sunshine, swimming, and all the comforts of home – this staffed villa delivers the goods. The property has an infinity pool and access to a private beach shared with residents of this gated community. You can also use the complimentary kayaks and sports amenities. Rental includes airport transfers, a personal chef, and a full-time butler who can summon massage therapists and more.

Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $1,634 per night

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Oceanside Airbnb with gourmet chef servicePhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis contemporary villa has a private pool and hot tub looking over the Caribbean Sea and ample space to sprawl under the sun with a podcast. The interiors are minimalist in style with clean lines and special attention paid to functionality and space – don’t underestimate the size of the bedrooms and communal areas. It’s staffed by a housekeeper and private chef who will curate a bespoke menu as per your requirements.

Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $1,200 per night

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Luxury villa with a private pool and free breakfastPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis Guest Favorite Airbnb in Jamaica’s Montego Bay makes the most of the Caribbean climate with its outdoor bathrooms, landscaped gardens, and poolside rooms. Housekeeping and breakfast are included in the nightly rate whereas a local chef may be hired for a reasonable cost. You’ll also score complimentary access to the Tropical Bliss Beach Club while public beaches and the Half Moon Golf Course are on the doorstep.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $568 per night

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See more photosThis family-friendly Airbnb in Saint Ann’s Bay, Jamaica, has three bedrooms and three bathrooms. The kitchen is nicely equipped for self-catering although you can outsource any cooking to the host’s recommended chef and spend more time lolling by the pool. This is shared with other residents at this gated community and provides an opportunity to make new friends and pick up tips. The beautiful Columbus Cove is a 10-minute walk from the unit.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $342 per night

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See more photosWhy book a hotel room when you can book a resort? This luxury villa rental sits on a lush compound overlooking the sea and has a pool with a swim-up bar and hot tub. There are five large bedrooms and a movie theater indoors. This fully-staffed Airbnb in Discovery Bay comes with an entourage of butlers, chefs, and housekeepers. Additional options include renting a yacht for the day or even a wedding service.

Ten guests, five bedrooms
Price: $1,750 per night

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Baller villa rental on the seafrontPhoto: AirbnbPhotos: AirbnbPhotos: Airbnb

 

See more photosWhen divided between 25 guests, this nine-bedroom Airbnb in Jamaica is a steal for large groups. It’s staged directly on the beach in Ocho Rios on the north coast where you’ll be able to take your pick from waterfalls and other adventurous excursions. Deluxe amenities include a huge private pool with a basketball hoop and spa, a games room, a home gym, and a movie theater. The villa is staffed around the clock to ensure every need is met.

Sixteen guests, nine bedrooms
Price: $5,363 per night

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VIP Jamaica Airbnb with private beach accessPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosAllegedly, John Lennon was a regular at this Georgian-era villa in San Antonio. Besides the heritage architecture which is rare to find on the vacation rental scene in Jamaica, it’s remarkably private and touts a second-floor swimming pool with ocean views and an open invitation to a private beach. The kitchen is kitted out with Viking appliances whereas the rest of the home is accented by hefty teak and cedar cabinetry. The staff can be as hands-on as you wish.

Twelve guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,975 per night

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Seaside cottage in Runaway BayPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis quaint cabin rental in Jamaica offers quiet luxury in a humble setting. The shack is thoughtfully designed with shuttered windows and shiplap interiors. The main bedroom is tucked away on the first floor while the mezzanine loft is suitable for children or teenagers. In place of a typical backyard, you have the Caribbean Sea – best enjoyed with the bodyboards provided by the host.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $342 per night

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See more photosThis peaceful Airbnb on Jamaica’s north coast stands between the beach and Cockpit Country. Being directly on the banks of the Martha Brae River means booking a rafting excursion is a must. The open-concept first floor comprises a large kitchen, dining area, and lounge while the backyard balances sunny and shady spots around the pool. The housekeeper lives on-site and offers her wizardly skills in the kitchen at an additional cost.

Twelve guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,061 per night

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Eco-cabin with a private pool and waterfallPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosEscape to the jungle at this high-end eco Airbnb in Jamaica’s Blue Mountains. It sits on 20 acres of private land and you’ll have access to a personal spring and waterfall, aptly named “Beauty Fall”. Wild swimming is non-negotiable but you can also relax in the chalet’s private pool. The cabin features such luxuries as air-conditioning, Tempurpedic mattresses, and oversized rainfall showers. Bear in mind that the closest grocery store is a 30-minute drive.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $597 per night

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American Airlines to Offer Free Inflight Wi-Fi for AAdvantage Members by 2026

Competition among airlines in the United States means that when one company changes its operations, the others are usually close behind. Take, for example, the pressure to add pared-down budget options where everything from bags to picking a seat is paid for à la carte. Recently, adoption of free inflight Wi-Fi has seen the same pattern. United Airlines announced it was rolling out limited free Wi-Fi to flights by the end of 2025, and Delta moved to offer free service to all international flights shortly after.

Now American Airlines is onboard after a trial in March, and will have free inflight Wi-Fi to all AAdvantage loyalty program members starting January 2026.

The new service, sponsored by AT&T, will be available on roughly 90 percent of American’s mainline aircraft outfitted with Viasat and Intelsat satellite connectivity, according to the airline. The rollout follows months of performance testing on select routes, with American stating the system exceeded internal benchmarks. The initiative also includes plans to retrofit over 500 regional jets with high-speed Wi-Fi by the end of 2025.

“Our customers greatly value staying connected while in the air,” Heather Garboden, chief customer officer at American Airlines, said in a press release. “We’ve been working diligently to outfit our aircraft with best-in-class high-speed Wi-Fi and, together with AT&T, are proud to offer those services at no cost to our most loyal customers.”

The move brings American in line with a growing industry standard. Delta began offering free Wi-Fi to SkyMiles members on most domestic flights in 2023. United Airlines, meanwhile, is deploying free inflight internet powered by SpaceX’s Starlink satellite system. JetBlue has long provided free connectivity on all flights, regardless of loyalty status.

American was one of the few US carriers to charge passengers for Wi-Fi access. By linking the service to AAdvantage membership, the airline not only enhances the onboard experience but also incentivizes signups to its loyalty program, which is free to join.

The partnership with AT&T — described by the airline as a union between “two iconic American brands” — allows American to offer the service without passing costs to customers, at least for now. While pricing details for non-members remain unconfirmed, the airline emphasized that the initiative is exclusive to AAdvantage participants.

Installation and service management will depend on satellite providers Viasat and Intelsat, whose high-speed systems currently power the majority of American’s Wi-Fi-enabled fleet. According to the airline, the network will eventually deliver more complimentary internet access than any other US carrier.

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