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7 Outstanding Italian Restaurants in New York City

While there’s no denying the nostalgia trip of dinner along Arthur Avenue or Mulberry Street, followed by pastry shopping and a sidewalk cup of espresso, many of New York City’s best Italian restaurants are located outside of Little Italy. Neighborhoods like Corona, Williamsburg, and South Ozone Park may have changed drastically since the days of $1.50 subway fare, but there are still dozens of old-school New York City Italian restaurants where the atmosphere is almost identical to what it was when the restaurants first opened – some as far back as the mid-1900s.

Many old-school New York City Italian restaurants in former Italian-American enclaves have become destination restaurants for people who left the old neighborhood (and the old country) decades ago, as well as for a new generation of people eager to explore cities like New York far from the touristy areas – especially those who enjoy dishes with ingredients and recipes that are generations old, and inspired by their original Italian roots.

Here are seven old-school New York City Italian restaurants that prove you can find some of the best seafood, pasta, and veal dishes in New York City.

New York City Italian restaurants everyone should knowBamonte’s

Photo: Brian Cicioni

Brooklyn’s oldest Italian restaurant feels a world away from the trendy Williamsburg and Greenpoint neighborhoods that surround it. New York City banned smoking in restaurants back in 2003, but this restaurant has yet to remove the cigarette machine that stands defiantly between the bar and main entrance. Like the two pay phones you’ll pass on your way to the dining room, the cigarette machine no longer works. Yet it reminds people of what NYC dining was like when subway fare was still under a dollar. The main dining room has remained pretty much unchanged since the 1950s.

Throughout the restaurant, you’ll find vintage Brooklyn Dodgers memorabilia adorning the red walls. To put things into perspective, Bamonte’s has been in business for five decades longer than their borough had a baseball team.

By the time you reach the dining room, the smell of red sauce will engulf your senses to the point where you’ll be willing to sit at the bar if there are no more tables available in the dining room. You can’t go wrong with either the seafood fra diavolo or the pork chop parmigiana. The homemade ravioli is another popular red sauce dish.

Thanks to the COVID-inspired additional outdoor seating, few hopeful diners are turned away nowadays. As the sign to the right of the dining room entrance indicates, proper attire is expected. However, the outdoor dining area is more casual.

Reservations are highly recommended. Valet parking is complimentary, but tips are encouraged.

Where: 32 Withers St, Brooklyn, NY 11211

Basilio Inn

Photo: Brian Cicioni

An old-school NYC Italian restaurant like Basilio Inn could only be possible on Staten Island. Located at the end of a short residential street, the former white carriage house predates the this borough’s oldest restaurant by at least 48 years. Were it not for the faded basil-colored letters announcing Basilio Inn; you’d likely think that you turned down the wrong street. The main indoor dining room is understated, with only two large portraits of the old country and a miniature painting of the restaurant’s exterior hanging from the walls. The latter was donated by a loyal patron.

If you want to feel like you’re going to your grandparents’ house for Sunday dinner, ask for a table outside. There’s a back patio as well as deck seating, which overlooks the main garden. That’s where the majority of their fresh ingredients are grown.

Pasta dishes make up one-third of Basilio’s menu. And the majority of the pasta is made in-house. While the pappardelle with veal ragu and shrimp risotto are both mainstays, you’ll usually be offered as many as ten different specials. The stuffed zucchini blossoms are a popular seasonal item, as is the fettuccine with broccoli rabe. And if you’re on the fence about the Long Island duck breast in a fig sauce, take a look at the fig tree adjacent to the bocce court in the vegetable garden.

While reservations are not required, they are highly recommended. Basilio closes from the first Sunday in January to March 1.

Where: 6 Galesville Ct, Staten Island, NY 10305

Don Peppe

Photo: Brian Cicioni

Located in South Ozone Park, just a half-mile from the JFK long-term parking lot, Don Peppe is one of those classic, cash-only, Italian restaurants that remains the same despite changes in the neighborhood. The last remaining fine dining Italian restaurant in Ozone Park is nearly always full, despite being far from touristy Manhattan and the hipster parts of Brooklyn.

There are no paper menus. Instead, the menu is written in chalk on the large blackboard above the tables adjacent to the kitchen entrance. If it’s your first time, try anything with clams. The restaurant’s black souvenir t-shirts boast “famous for baked clams,” but the linguine with white clam sauce is just as popular. The latter comes with a pound of linguine soaked in their soup-like sauce and topped with chopped clams and whole roasted garlic cloves, the smell of which permeates the air like saltwater at a beachside clam shack.

As all dishes are meant for sharing, your server (who has likely been at Don Peppe for at least a decade) will scoop a normal dinner-sized portion onto your plate before topping it with a spoonful or two of sauce. This is how they serve everything on the menu.

After the clams, veal dishes are the most popular. In this case, your server will cut you off a large piece of veal with a spoon as if to let you know that you’re eating the most tender veal in New York. Their namesake breaded veal dish comes fried and topped with chopped tomatoes and red onions. While the Veal Don Peppe may be a bit more popular than the veal parmesan, the latter is topped with the perfect amount of red sauce.

The restaurant does not take reservations. Nor will it seat your party until everyone has arrived.

Where: 135-58 Lefferts Blvd, South Ozone Park, NY 11420

F & J Pine

Photo: Brian Cicioni

Named after founders Frankie and Johnny, F & J Pine proves that not all of the best Italian restaurants in The Bronx are located along Arthur Avenue or 187th Street. What started in 1969 as a humble bar with a single dining room now takes up an entire triangle-shaped city block on the edge of Morris Park. It’s impossible to miss the red and black awning that hangs above the main entrance and valet stand along Bronxdale Avenue.

Pay special attention to the words’ family-style.’ The Yankee Stadium-sized portions are meant for sharing. Regulars are quick to suggest the zuppa di pesce, which is served in a 21×12″ bowl stacked nearly four inches high with eight different types of seafood served over a pound of linguine. Ordering this for one person will get you some curious stares. Finishing it will earn you respect among the regulars who still dine here. If you like spice, order the fra diavolo version. You can also get it with blanco or marinara sauce.

The chicken and veal parmesan are popular as well. For dessert, try the Oreo zeppole or the Nutella s’mores pizzetta. The zeppole come stuffed with the pastry chef’s version of oreo cream as well as some chocolate cookie crumbs. A scoop of vanilla ice cream comes on the side. The pizzetta is prepared in their pizza oven, from which they also prepare eight different wood-fired pies.

Reservations are highly recommended. Valet parking is complimentary, but tips are encouraged.

Where: 1913 Bronxdale Ave, The Bronx, NY 10462

Gargiulo’s

Photo: Brian Cicioni

The second-oldest Italian restaurant in Brooklyn is located close enough to the iconic Coney Island Boardwalk that you can smell the saltwater as you approach from West 15th Street. When you enter Gargiulo’s, you’ll see a lobster tank on the left, the bar on the right, and the 110-capacity dining room straight ahead.

The Russo family has owned Gargiulo’s since 1965. And while the restaurant is surrounded by the same cookie-cutter chain restaurants that you’ll find in most Atlantic beach towns, it remains one of two indoor destination restaurants in Coney Island. While the other (Totonno’s) is an informal yet legendary New York pizzeria, Gargiulo’s remains a traditional upscale dining experience. The impossible-to-miss sign on the door lists eight articles of clothing not permitted. By the time you’re seated, you can easily forget that most people exiting the adjacent subway station are coming to eat boardwalk food and soak up the sun.

As one may expect, given the proximity to the ocean, seafood dishes are the most popular. The fish salad, zuppa di pesce, and linguine with white clam sauce are ideal for beginners. The regulars (who make up the majority of patrons) are likely to recommend these old-school New York Italian restaurant staples as well. For something without shellfish, try their namesake pasta dish. As with many of their pasta dishes, you’ll have the option to order half or full portions. The specials change every other week.

Reservations are recommended but not required. Valet parking is complimentary, but tips are encouraged. If you’re more of a Jersey person, try their new location 50 miles south in Tinton Falls.

Where: 2911 W 15th St, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Lenny’s Clam Bar

Photo: Brian Cicioni

The mile-long stretch of Cross Bay Boulevard west of the Shellbank Basin is lined with pizzerias as well as upscale Italian restaurants like Vetro, Bruno, Matteo’s, and Lenny’s Clam Bar. While you’re unlikely to have a bad meal at any of the aforementioned, Lenny’s has been there the longest.

Those hundreds of autographed pictures that line the walls here remind diners that professional athletes and entertainers don’t just eat in Manhattan. Lenny’s Clam Bar has also been a popular dining spot for professional wrestlers from Hulk Hogan to Jerry Lawler since the 1980s. And anyone who’s into local history should appreciate the small original 1974 menu on display.

The blue and white awning that covers the walkway to the main entrance resembles that of an Italian ice shop. But it’s the seafood that keeps people coming back. On the menu, you’ll see the seafood salad and baked clams referred to as the house specialties. The linguine with white clam sauce deserves that distinction as well. And so do the scungilli and fried calamari. While you can order either with marinara sauce, the sweet, medium, or hot sauces are the way to go.

You can get a free glass of wine by asking for Joe.

Where: 161-03 Cross Bay Blvd, Howard Beach, NY 11414

Michael’s

Photo: Brian Cicioni

Located on the border between Marine Park and Sheepshead Bay, Michael’s is the definition of a neighborhood institution. Everything else near the intersection of Nostrand and Avenue R fades into the background compared to the stone facade building that dates back more than a half-century.

Michael’s started as a pizzeria in 1964. The fine dining establishment you’ll see today came a decade later. Puglia native and founder Michael Cacace’s grandson (also named Michael)  is currently running the impressive operation, which includes the restaurant as well as the tomato sauce distribution center, which supplies more than 20,000 grocery stores.

While the menus may seem overwhelming at first, the staff are able to break it down with laser-sharp focus without pushing you too hard in one direction or the other. For a meat dish, try the roughly 10×5″ veal chop parmigiana, which is served on the bone. In addition to making the desserts and pasta in-house, the kitchen staff at Michael’s also do their own butchering.

The burnt rigatoni is their must-try pasta dish. As soon as it gets within six feet of your table, you’ll be able to smell the blackened mozzarella cheese which is baked into the rigatoni, which sits over a layer of vodka sauce. And then there are the items that are not on either menu that the mostly regular crowd knows to ask for. The mildly spicy hot calamari with long green hot peppers is one example. For a smaller appetizer, try the zucchini blossoms stuffed with fresh mozzarella and red peppers.

Reservations are highly recommended. Valet parking is complimentary, but tips are encouraged. And don’t leave Marine Park without checking out Michael’s Pastry Shop, which is located across Nostrand Avenue. Try the cassata.

Where: 2929 Avenue R, Brooklyn, NY 11229

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The Preidlhof Wellness Resort Is the Epitome of Luxury in Italy’s Tyrol Region

I’d be remiss if I didn’t admit that, this year, all I’d like to do for vacation is slop on the beach and page through a crime novel with a bottle of rosé. Instead, I spent five days at one of Europe’s top wellness resorts and hit reset.

Preidlhof is a luxury five-star hotel set in the Vinschgau Valley of the South Tyrol region of Italy. Perched on the mountainside of Naturns, a picturesque Alpine village, the resort offers some of the best wellness vacation packages in Europe.

Wellness packages at Preidlhof

Photo: Preidlhof. Relaxation room in the spa.

The multi-award-winning hotel offers an enormous range of expert-led wellbeing packages, from weight loss, to sleep programs, to romantic vacations and tailor-made schedules.

Here, the holistic approach to healing means not only can you design a structured wellness journey based on your physical and mental health, but you can opt-in for workshops, classes, and therapies. Or you can simply do nothing and drink Aperol spritzes by one of the six pools — there is zero judgment.

The layout of Preidlhof resort

My suite was located in the modern building and had a sprawling, open-plan layout. The toilet is enclosed, but the colossal bathroom with sensory lighting, a huge king-sized bed dressed in lavender-scented pillows and plush throws, and a lounge area are all open to a balcony with views over the village and green hillsides. On the balcony, I found a double-size daybed, which I slept on during most of my stay. Morning Alpine bird song and the sound of church bells were the rewards for this decision.

The family-run resort began with one structure. Today, it offers more traditional suites and homes at the spa complex. When scanning the property from one of the top-floor infinity pools, you can easily see how this sprawling complex has developed over the years.

Photo: Preidlhof. Lap infinity pool. The sports pool has a lap timer and is slightly colder than the other five pools.

Photo: Preidlhof

Photo: Preidlhof. 50s inspired swimming pool.

Photo: Preidlhof

The buildings, restaurant, suites, spa, saunas, and pools are connected by a labyrinth of gently lit corridors. Doors open automatically when you approach and the smell of honey, lavender, and olive oil dances in the air as you saunter through the maze. Nature plays a central role in every element of your experience here and although the layout may sound complex, there’s an element of the calm Italian countryside that filters throughout the interior.

Photo: Preidlhof. Meditation room and yoga studio.

Mediterranean-style gardens with olive, lemon, and kumquat trees, vineyards, and apple orchards hug the outskirts and welcomingly intertwine with the layout of the property.

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton. Relaxation room with day beds. Each day bed has headphones which you can choose from a selection of calming sounds and music.

Water plays a central role, and Preidlhof has six pools, both indoor and out. Set at varying temperatures, there are two infinity pools, an outdoor pool with an inside-outside tunnel, a nude pool, and a 50s-inspired pool that glows various bright colors and is located underground in a huge, fabulously lit, cave-like cavern.

There’s also a six-floor sauna tower.

Photo: Preidlhof. The sauna tower.

This monstrous structure is monstrous in size only. It smells like bees and vineyards and is instantly relaxing. It houses 16 types of saunas that blend a combination of essential oils and heat to make each room a unique experience.

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton. Salt room in the sauna tower.

The element of water is carried throughout the tower as well. Here, you’ll find cold plunge pools and ice-water bucket showers. The knowledgeable staff stand by to explain the health benefits of switching between hot and cold treatments.

Photo: Preidlhof

Photo: Preidlhof

There are also many relaxation spaces with silence rooms; outdoor balconies with cabanas and hammocks; and snack stations with fresh fruit, local herbal teas, and cheeses.

Within the sauna tower, you’ll also find the Deep Sea Relaxation Room. This multi-sensory room was one of the highlights of my stay. Combining what I can only describe as an LED-light show with emotive sounds, the 15-minute treatment brought me to tears — which was perhaps exactly what I needed.

Wellness packages and treatments at Preidlhof

My intention for visiting Preidlhof was to relax my shoulders and take a deep breath. My program was custom-made to fit my personal needs. On the first day, I joined local practitioner Irmgard, a forest bathing expert with a vast knowledge of local herbs.

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton. Healer with burning local herbs during out forest bath.

We walked through the charming streets of Naturns and into the hillside forest, where we hiked in silence to a clearing in the trees. There, Irmgard took me through a healing session by burning a concoction of local herbs and cleansing my aura.

Content and at peace, I returned to the spa to start my in-house treatments.

The spa itself is immense. Hundreds of candles don passageways between rooms and Buddhist statues nicely juxtapose the Italian countryside. From a duluxe foot bath, full-body scrub, sensory light massage, Shiatsu, and a sound bath, then an ancient healing session followed by Dao Yin yoga, I got exactly what I traveled to Italy for.

What I experienced, however, is only a smidge of that Preidlhof offers. I met guests who come annually to take two weeks out of daily life and “get back on track,” others who had suffered serious trauma and required emotional healing, and others still who chose to elicit the help of dietitians to aid in their personal journey.

Food and drink at Preidlhof

Preidlhof’s menu relies heavily on seasonal, local produce.

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton. Breakfast buffet.

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton. Breakfast buffet.

Breakfast is an extravagant buffet. Fresh jugs of green juice, smoothies, and an array of milk options (including local dairy) fill the buffet table with an enormous range of cereals, nuts, dried and fresh fruit, cured meat, regional cheese, and smoked fish. A bakery sits in the corner of the restaurant stacked with every type of bread and pastry you can dream of. And if you’d prefer a cooked breakfast, there’s a chef who flips omelets and serves lashings of crisp bacon and Italian sausages.

Lunch is a more causal affair. Although I had a private table in the VIP section of the restaurant, I chose to take lunch on the communal balcony, and I did so in my robe — Preidlhof welcomes you to dine in comfort.

Photo: Preidlhof

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton. Champagne risotto with tuna carpaccio.

Photo: Preidlhof

At dinner, the South Tyrolean bread soup was seasoned to perfection, and the sous vide organic beef neck with herb sponge cake, sweet and sour blackberries, and pioppini mushrooms was unforgettable. And the Ricotta dumpling with poppy seeds and pear, paired with a local grappa chardonnay, is worth walking to Naturns for.

I opted for the “no holds barred” dining at Preidlhof, and that’s what I love most about this resort: the options.

If you’d like to make your journey through the extensive regional wine list, you can. If you’d rather enjoy the tea list (which rivals the wine list) and partake in the vegan menu, you can. It’s your experience.

Getting to Preidlhof resort

Photo: Preidlhof

The journey through the Tyrol region to Naturns might seem complex, but that’s part of the appeal of Preidlhof.

The nearest airports to Naturns are Venice and Millan. From there, it’s a three-hour drive through the mountains or a train ride that takes closer to five hours. What makes this journey feel somewhat spiritual are the magnificent view of the Sound of Music countryside and the payoff you receive when you finally arrive at Preidlhof.

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These Denver Airport Bathrooms Have Massive Windows Pilots and Passengers Can See Into

If you decide to travel through Denver International Airport (DIA), be careful where you change. DIA recently installed some new windows in the bathrooms that give airport-goers a fantastic view of the planes as they taxi and take off, but the pilots and passengers on those planes also have a view of you.

Morgan, a First Officer and Boeing 737 pilot who uses the TikTok handle @almostcaptainmorgan, posted a video about how cool she thought the new windows in the bathrooms along Concourse C were, except for the fact that the construction crews should probably have made the windows with two-way glass.

@almostcaptainmorgan 100% thought this was the coolest thing ever until I got to the plane #denver #airport #airlinepilot #traveltiktok ♬ original sound – Morgan

Since the video was posted on June 27, the video has garnered 2.1 million views. Many others, especially women, were concerned about their privacy, since sometimes a layover might leave little time to change.

“I JUST DID A QUICK CHANGE AT THE SINK AREA A FEW DAYS AGO,” influencer Elyse Myers wrote.

Brooke Daniels had noticed the design flaw on her last visit to the airport, and commented, “Girl yes! I was just standing there gazing at the planes leaving and one pilot waved I almost shit my pants.”

According to The Denver Post, The restrooms opened in May as part of the addition of 16 new gates. The Denver airport has been under construction since 2018, and recently, the airport approved the Great Hall Project, which will be completed over the next six years, according to KUSA 9 News. The latest project will involve building a new ticketing and check-in space, security checkpoint, and a full build-out of the Jeppesen Terminal.

Mindy Crane, a spokesperson for Denver International Airport, said the new bathrooms retain people’s privacy because people are only visible from the sinks when they wash their hands. The windows were installed to provide better lighting, noting that older bathrooms in the airport are darker, feel less open, and definitely don’t have the same incredible view.

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Myrtle Beach Is a Cultural Powerhouse. These Experiences Prove It.

Myrtle Beach may be best known as the home of The Beach, but as a travel destination it offers much more than miles of pristine sand. Visitors looking to be enriched by nature, history, art, culture, and fresh cuisine will find vacations’ worth of opportunities here: Wander through sculpture-laden gardens. Spend the day recharging at the spa. Take in all the pastel colors of the evening sky on a sunset cruise.

Myrtle Beach has everything you need to indulge all of your senses and leave you feeling inspired. Here’s a rundown of some of its top cultural attractions to add to your itinerary.

PAMPERING YOURSELF

Photo: Rido/Shutterstock

Whether you’re after a massage, a treatment to sweat out those drinks from last night, or just a mani pedi, you’re in literal good hands at these sanctuaries.

Hibiscus Spa

A world-class beachfront spa located in the Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes, Hibiscus Spa is a feast for the senses. Its elegant and modern interior sets your mind at ease, while therapists get to work on relieving your mind, body, and spirit of all tension. Treatments range from full-body scrubs to deep-tissue massages and facials and include access to the hotel’s sauna, steam room, whirlpool, and more. You can truly relax away an entire day here.

Cinzia Spa

At Cinzia Spa, guests are offered an intriguing selection of treatments hard to find elsewhere. Enjoy the spa’s signature wellness circuit, which includes a trip into a Himalayan salt cave, a cryotherapy chamber, and an infrared sauna. Or, allow the massage therapists to work their magic on your tired limbs with CBD-infused oils and ointments. When you’re done, take a stroll through the Spa Garden Sanctuary to let it all soak in.

FINE DINING

Photo: Visit Myrtle Beach

Take your time at these restaurants, savoring the unique flavors put together by inspired chefs for an indulgent evening.

Aspen Grille

Aspen Grille serves upscale, local fare with a Southern flair. With Myrtle Beach right on the water, you’d be remiss to not order some of the fresh seafood. Go for a surf and turf experience with the Carolina shrimp cocktail to start and the USDA Prime filet mignon as your entree.

Sea Captain’s House

Set within a charming 1930s beach cottage, Sea Captain’s House lives up to its name by offering a mixture of fresh seafood and Southern favorites — all with an unparalleled oceanfront view. Unwind with a bourbon mule as you cut into pecan-encrusted snapper or sea scallops.

Heirloom Bistro

The Grand Strand’s Heirloom Bistro delights diners with a three-tiered prix fixe menu anchored by seasonal farm-to-table ingredients. Expect a variety of innovative small plates — like watermelon and prosciutto carpaccio — alongside seafood dishes, beef, and lamb. The only way you can go wrong? Not leaving room for the peanut butter crème brûlée.

ART & RETAIL THERAPY

Photo: Visit Myrtle Beach

Being on vacation is one of those few circumstances when it feels 100% acceptable to go the extra mile and treat yourself. To browse works of art, wine, decorative items, or other one-of-a-kind Myrtle Beach souvenirs, stop by any of the following locales.

Seacoast Artists Gallery

The exclusive Seacoast Artists Gallery features original works created by more than 70 local artists. Mediums on display include pottery, photography, fiber art, and painting.

Myrtle Beach’s art museum

Find some serious artistic inspiration at this destination for the fine arts. The Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum houses four distinct collections, including antique maps and historical prints, but also holds exhibits showcasing renowned artists. Admission is free so making a stop is a no-brainer.

Total Wine & More

If you’re ready to lift a glass to your Myrtle Beach vacation memories, make Total Wine & More your first stop. With a huge selection of wines from around the world, local beers, and top-notch spirits, you can find exactly what you need for your occasion.

Savannah Bee Company

For a unique Myrtle Beach gift, Savannah Bee Company sells all things made of honey. Take your pick from candles, mead, luxurious creams, and other sweet items derived from the magic of nature’s favorite pollinator.

EXTRA-MILE EXPERIENCES

Photo: Visit Myrtle Beach

Cruises, fire shows, and beautiful botanical gardens are all on offer to add an extra touch of something special to your Myrtle Beach vacation.

Dinner cruise

Nothing says “I’m living the life” quite like relaxing aboard an evening cruise with a candlelit dinner awaiting you. The Barefoot Queen dinner cruise takes passengers on a gorgeous sunset ride along the Intracoastal Waterway. Dinner is served while guests enjoy entertainment, narration, and, of course, beautiful views.

Golfing

Myrtle Beach famously hosts some of the nation’s finest golf courses — The Dunes Golf and Beach Club, for instance, often holds a spot on the list of top 100 golf courses in America. Stop by for 18 holes while enjoying oceanfront views, as well as access to a state-of-the-art tennis court, private pool, and upscale dining.

Polynesian Fire

If your vacation needs a spark of excitement, the Fire Luau Show at St. John’s Inn should do the trick. A family from the American Samoa island of Tutuila runs the show, aptly named Polynesian Fire. Against a Pacific island backdrop, dancers and other performers capture the audience’s attention all evening.

Waccamaw River Nature & Wildlife Tour

If you’re all beached out but still want to connect with nature, book a wildlife trip with Waccamaw River Tours. Let go of all your cares as you cruise down the cypress-lined river, keeping an eye out for a variety of birds as well as other local flora and fauna along the way.

Brookgreen Gardens

Located just south of Myrtle Beach, Brookgreen Gardens offers visitors a chance to get lost in both art and nature. The gardens encompass 9,127 acres, so you can spend hours exploring pathways lined with 250-year-old oak trees, butterfly gardens, and plenty of roses. While you’re here, be sure to check out the largest collection of American figurative sculptures in the nation, clocking in at 2,000 works.

While it’s tempting to spend your entire time in Myrtle Beach lying on the sand and frolicking in the water, those who wander into other interesting corners of the destination will be rewarded with culture, luxury, and beauty. Are you ready to explore?

This Southwest Airlines Passenger Has a Hilarious Way To Keep the Seats Next To Him Open

Between flight delays, cancellations, high prices, and over-sold planes, flying has been rough for a lot of people in 2022. If you’re flying Southwest and get to choose your own seat, a row to yourself is one small win. And one guy has a an interesting (read: awkward) way to make that happen.

@mikewdavis

How to keep seats open next to you on a flight

♬ original sound – mikewdavis

Perhaps the people passing just needed more than two seats, or maybe they’d rather take their chances for their own row. But then again, maybe it’s the seat patting that was the straw that broke the camel’s back. In any case, the combination of lightly tapping a seat and, crucially, eye contact is enough to make some turn away entirely.

There’s are a couple of things to keep in mind if you want to give this a go. The first is that you should always check in early to your Southwest flight to ensure you board early enough to get a row in the first place. Second, come to peace with the fact that someone may actually be encouraged by your gentle patting and eye contact, and that’s just something you’ll have to live with. Lastly, if it’s a sold out flight, you’ll just end up sitting next to the last minute boarders if everyone else takes a hard pass.

Feel too awkward to try this out? Hopefully you don’t mind some row companions or you’re loaded enough to charter a whole commercial plane.

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The 5 Best Beaches Near Houston

Did you know that Houston is the only large city in America that has recorded more than 100 days a year of temperatures over 100 degrees? This past June, temperatures at both Hobby and Bush airports hit temperatures above 100 degrees for the first time in recorded history. Even native Houstonians are having to find creative ways to enjoy the hottest months of the year outside of our current norms and traditions.

As a child of the 80s and 90s, I can remember spending long summer days enjoying the outdoors with friends and family, but the current weather requires access to water to help get a reprieve from the scorching heat. The phrase, “This is not the same sun we got dropped off at Astroworld in” has never been more accurate, as Houstonians try to find ways to enjoy their summer without succumbing to the brutal temperatures.

And as temperatures and gas prices continue to rise across the country, it is a great time to explore cooling down at some of the beaches in the Houston area.

East Beach

Photo: Mark Taylor Cunningham/Shutterstock

When it comes to visiting beaches in the Houston area, the most popular and historic beaches are the ones that make up Galveston Beaches. Since Galveston is a straight shot down I-45, the commute is easy and accessible in about an hour’s drive from the middle of Houston.

East Beach is the most popular of Galveston’s beaches and has amenities like the boardwalk and entertainment areas that are perfect for Houstonians of all ages. As the name implies, East Beach is at the far eastern tip of Galveston Island, and unlike many of the beaches located on the Galveston strip, alcoholic beverages are permissible. Like many Houstonians, I grew up with family road trips to Galveston, and the Galveston seawall is filled with many seafood serving restaurants like Gaidos, a fan favorite since 1911.

Stewart Beach

Photo: Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock

There are several beaches to choose from on the 32 miles of coastline that makeup Galveston Island beaches, and outside of parking fees, trips to Galveston are an easy commute from Houston that is friendly for all budgets and types of travelers. Whether you prefer catching your favorite band at one of the entertainment venues, fishing and/or shopping for the freshest catch, or just catching some rays and waves with your family members or friends, Galveston has a beach for you.

Another popular Galveston Beach that is constantly ranked at the top of the list for families is Stewart Beach. Stewart Beach is home to activities like beach volleyball, cornhole, and giant Jenga, and for a nominal parking fee, families can spend the day enjoying the available concessions.

Surfside Beach

Photo: Duane Gore/Shutterstock

In the same way that most Houstonians are familiar with the beaches of Galveston, another popular local favorite is Surfside Beach. Surfside is known for its waves and as a popular family getaway that is located about an hour south of Houston. While only four miles long, Surfside is a beach known for its family atmosphere and is perfect for lounging and/or swimming.

There are a handful of restaurants to enjoy in the area, and kids love the Splash Pad Park which features a 2,000 square-foot splash pad for chilling out to beat the Texas sun. The only recommendation is that you get there early, because it can get crowded fast, especially with current Texas summer temperatures. However, you can also rent one of the many beach houses, stay overnight in a hotel, or if you have an RV come ready to park it and have a good time.

McFaddin Beach

For those that like to fish and/or catch blue shell crabs, you can drive a little further to McFaddin Beach in Winnie, TX. McFaddin Beach is about two hours away from Houston and is located outside of Port Arthur as part of McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge. Although you have to be mindful of the alligators that share the waters, the crabs and fish are plentiful at this free public access beach, and you can come back home with a large haul for your next seafood feast.

Lago Mar

Photo By: Lago Mar

Last but not least, a new favorite gem is Lago Mar. This man-made tropical paradise boasts the largest crystal clear lagoon in Texas and for a fee, you can enjoy some fun in the sun with your loved ones. Lago Mar is located about half an hour from Houston and opened in 2021 as part of a residential neighborhood. While neighborhood residents get perks like free entry, visitors can purchase tickets to enjoy the amenities at Lago Mar. Whether you are looking to swim in the crystal blue waters, enjoy non-motorized sports like paddleboarding, dance to a featured band, or sip adult beverages at Paradise Shore Beach, the adult-only side of Lago Mar, there is something for everyone.

Unlike most Houston area beaches, Lago Mar is not open year round and can only be enjoyed for a few months out of the year. Be sure to check their website for special events and/or tickets prior to your visit to verify availability as they do offer day pass bundles and summer passes.

Houston area beaches are a great way to enjoy these sweltering summer months and can be a fantastic getaway for family and friends alike.

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The 7 Best Places To Eat in New York City’s Chelsea Market

Chelsea Market has an unfair reputation these days: Located in the swanky Meatpacking District (you know, near all those clubs you tried to get into in college) in Manhattan, the indoor food hall and shopping mall is maligned as a place only tourists go to eat. And yes, there are plenty of tourists milling around the brick-walled market. But that doesn’t mean that there isn’t food at Chelsea Market that is well worth waiting in line for.

When I stopped by Chelsea Market recently, I discovered playful, well thought out, inventive takes on tacos, noodles, and Korean dishes, among other cuisines. Most of the dishes I tasted were fun to eat and downright delicious – almost nothing in the market felt particularly watered down, or as though it catered to people with bland tastes. Instead, I found a wide variety of meals, from the upscale and sophisticated to elevated takes on street food.

Chelsea Market isn’t huge. There are 40 places to eat and drink in the market, and while that sounds like a lot, you can stop for a small bite, snack, or a drink at most of those places and still have room for more by the time you move on. That means you could theoretically take a day trip to Chelsea Market for the food alone. Just be sure to come hungry and bring an extra tote bag so you can bring dinner and a few snacks home with you.

To start, walk to the end of Chelsea Market (if you’re entering at 75 Ninth Avenue, between 15th and 16th street), and pick up a coffee at Sarabeth’s to fuel up. Then, work your way toward the front, starting at Takumi Taco. On your way out, don’t forget to stop at Pearl River Market, an Asian-inspired shop, where you can find an eclectic mix of art supplies, clothes, and other gifts – I picked up a pack of anime cat stickers for myself and a Totoro plush for my daughter.

Where to eat in Chelsea Market

Photo: Nick Starichenko/Shutterstock

1. Takumi Taco

Photo: Takumi Taco

This fusion storefront blends Japanese flavors with tacos to great success. At Takumi Taco, Diners walk up to a small counter to order, and can either snack on their meal to-go or sit at the adjoining bar. Most of the tacos are housed in a crispy gyoza shell – a brilliant way to meld Japanese and Mexican snack food.

What to try: The spicy tuna taco is particularly popular, but I thought the Japanese curry beef taco was a perfect bite.

2. Mŏkbar

Photo: Mŏkbar

The Mŏkbar in Chelsea Market is one of three locations of the Korean restaurant from chef Esther Choi. Here you’ll find what is best described as a joyful take on Korean classic anju – shareable dishes usually enjoyed with beer: There’s a “K-pop” chicken and waffle dish, which is served inside a blue corn waffle cone; the “bibimboppers,” rice balls filled with mozzarella and vegetables; and the “K-town fries,” which are topped with gochujang and kimchi. All the food is to-go, which makes this a great place to stop on your way out the door because you’ll want to take the whole menu home with you.

What to try: The Korean fried chicken, and the hocake stuffed with pork belly – it’s simple but divine.

3. Los Tacos No. 1

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Once you’ve sampled the fusion tacos at Takumi, hop over to Los Tacos No. 1, where you will find much more traditional tacos. The menu at this taco joint is sparse – you’ll find only quesadillas, mulas (cheese and toppings sandwiched between two tortillas), and tostadas in just four varities: nopal (cactus), carne asada, pollo asado, and adobada (marinated pork). This is no frills, and no eating at the bar, type of joint – just grab your tacos at the counter and keep it moving. Los Tacos No. 1 adheres to the tacos-as-street-food style of dining, which means you can take your tacos on a plate and eat while you peruse the rest of the market.

What to try: One of each type of taco.

4. Cull and Pistol

Photo: Cull and Pistol

This sit down lunch spot is a divergence from the mostly eat on the go options in Chelsea Market, but once your feet get tired from traversing the hallways of the market, Cull and Pistol is where you should settle down. The small, but classy, space offers a menu full of seafood classics from a whole baked lobster to clam chowder, but where you’ll really want to focus your attention is the fresh oyster bar.

Next door is Cull and Pistol’s sister restaurant, The Lobster Place, where you can find more casual, hearty seafood, like a salmon burger, and a shrimp and fish fry. The lobster roll is especially popular. After eating, you can shop for fresh seafood to take home, like crab legs and swordfish steaks.

What to try: A dozen fresh oysters and a glass of crisp Prosecco.

5. Very Fresh Noodles

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One of the most popular storefronts in Chelsea Market, Very Fresh Noodles has garnered a following for a reason. In fact, people even plan trips to the market just to eat here. The hype is deserved: The hand-pulled noodles here are the ideal texture – not soggy, but firm and elastic. The spices will burn your tongue in the best way; there is both fire and depth of flavor to be enjoyed here.

What to try: The La Mei Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup is popular, which features slow-braised beef shank in a beef and tomato broth, but I recommend the Very Spicy Pork Dan Dan Mian.

6. Pia

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This plant-based and vegan bar highlights Mexican cuisine with dishes like pozole and tamales. Ingredients like cashew crema, chickpea “chorizo,” and oyster mushrooms replace meat and dairy. However, the real highlight at Pia is the selection of natural orange and pink wines which the bar charmingly refers to as “Crushable. Chuggable. Juicy AF.” Pia might sneakily become one of your favorite places to drink in Manhattan.

What to try: Mushroom tinga tostada (tinga verde smallhold oyster mushrooms and cashew crema), tamales de mole poblano (mole poblano and vertage cashew “mozzarella”), burrito ahogado (house chickpea chorizo and cashew crema).

7. Seed + Mill

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The specialty at Seed + Mill is halva, a flakey, crispy cake made with tahini. The tahini soft serve is such a delectable mixture of nutty and savory, with just a hint of sweetness that is far from cloying. It’s one the best desserts in the market, by far. Bonus: It’s completely vegan.

What to try: Tahini soft serve, of course, and pick up a slice of spiced cardamom halva to take home.

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11 Ocean City Airbnbs That Showcase the Best of Jersey Beach Life

Ocean City, New Jersey, flies the flag for family-friendly getaways. Tourism in this “dry” city revolves around the eight miles of sandy beach, epic amusement parks, and the boardwalk with its snack shacks. When you tire of the bright lights, head to the oceanfront Corson’s Inlet State Park for a dose of nature. Choosing where to stay in Ocean City is only the start of the adventure. Read on for the lowdown on the Airbnb scene in Ocean City, New Jersey.

Boardwalk Airbnbs in Ocean City, New JerseyBeachfront Airbnb Ocean City, New Jersey, vacation rentalsPet-friendly Airbnbs in Ocean City, New JerseyOcean City, New Jersey, Airbnbs with a pool

We hope you love the Airbnb Ocean City, NJ, 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.

Boardwalk Airbnbs in Ocean City, New Jersey

The Jersey Shore is all about the actual shore, so booking a boardwalk Airbnb in Ocean City, NJ, is your best bet for being the heart of the action.

Stylish shore getaway in the heart of OCNJ

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This immaculate three-bedroom rental is steps away from the beach and boardwalk. Open-plan living quarters are clad in neutral hues with a stone fireplace and a top-of-the-line kitchen. Each of the three double bedrooms has a TV and there’s a bathtub in the master bathroom. A large sheltered balcony is perfect for breakfasts and chatty evenings.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $590 per night

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Downtown Ocean Ave – Franklin House

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Located at 9th and Ocean, this downtown Ocean City Airbnb is right in the heart of the action. A postcard-pretty facade includes a sheltered terrace on the upper level with ample seating and dining space. At the rear, you’ll find a second balcony and patio for additional privacy. Cozy, modern interiors are spread over two floors plus a loft that doubles up as a bedroom and lounge.

Nine guests, three bedrooms
Price: $530 per night

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Amazing six-bedroom home with elevator and six decks

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Convenient for the beach and boardwalk, this six-bedroom Airbnb Ocean City vacation rental features an open-plan living and dining zone. The fireplace adds coziness for winter evenings or movie nights. Three balconies offer attractive views and are ideal for sociable dinners and quiet time. An elevator is handy for elderly guests or those seeking an accessible property. Bicycles, beach chairs, and kids’ toys are available in the garage.

Fourteen guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,009 per night
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The Saltwater House – High Tide Suite

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Located a 10-minute stroll from the sand, this picturesque vacation rental is styled per modern tastes. Beach-themed prints hang on the walls while bohemian appliances add a laid-back charm. A compact yet comprehensive kitchen spills into the living room while the backyard is spruced up with picnic benches and a grill. Hire a couple of bikes from town and you can secure them at the provided bike racks.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $435 per night

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Beachfront Airbnb Ocean City, New Jersey, vacation rentals

Ocean City, New Jersey, beachfront Airbnbs put you steps from the water. This, of course, means you have first access to the sand each morning for prime towel placement.

Luxury beach block with full ocean views

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This luxurious Ocean City condo occupies the top floor and rewards you with ocean views. Interiors are artistically appointed with designer wallpaper, fixtures, and nautical prints and trinkets. The open-concept lounge and kitchen are warmed by a fire while light flows in through the picture windows. A balcony is fitted with a dining table and sun loungers to suit all moods.

Eleven guests, four bedrooms
Price: $1,930 per night

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Beach front luxury home and deck right on the sand

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Situated directly on the sand, this beachside Airbnb in Ocean City, New Jersey, gives you the privilege of being the first in the water. Sit out on the immense deck with the back doors open while the sea breeze and salty air waft through the home. Shabby chic rooms and living spaces make this child and pet-friendly rental feel like home. The beach house is a 10-minute drive from downtown and the boardwalk.

Eleven guests, four bedrooms
Price: $1,010 per night

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Pet-friendly Airbnbs in Ocean City, New Jersey

Travel is better with pets. Don’t let anyone counter that statement. These pet-friendly Airbnbs in Ocean City, New Jersey, mean its no hassle to bring the pup.

The Gardens beach cottage

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This cute Ocean City Airbnb vacation rental is equally suited for summer vacations, winter getaways, and workstations. Pleasing touches include the full bathtub, the full kitchen, and the rear room that serves as a reading nook or third bedroom. The patio leads onto a fenced backyard lawn where dogs and kids can burn off their energy. An outdoor shower is a bonus for beachgoing parties.

Nine guests, three bedrooms
Price: $485 per night

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Family-friendly entire house with XL fenced-in yard

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Centrally located, this pet-friendly Ocean City Airbnb is handy for getting around the key sights and beaches. Touted as the best yard in town, you’ll find a bar, pergola, hammock, shower, and covered porch waiting out back. Designed for families and small groups, the interiors of this two-bedroom bungalow are snug and inviting. Beach chairs and kids’ toys are included in the rental.

Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $255 per night

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Waterfront 4-bedroom condo – the Bay in Ocean City

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This pet-friendly Airbnb in Ocean City, New Jersey, is situated in a tranquil lagoon that peers over the intra-coastal waterway and marshlands. A boat slip is available subject to a small surcharge. Floor-to-ceiling windows, decks, and a backyard with a grill capitalize on the water views. The home is spacious and well-equipped with a generous fire for winter rentals.

Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $514 per night

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Ocean City, New Jersey, Airbnbs with a pool

Nothing goes together like the beach and the pool. These Ocean City, New Jersey, Airbnbs with a pool give you a place to cool off after a day on the sand.

Ocean City home on the bay with pool

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This brand new Airbnb in Ocean City has a pool and three water boat slips for easy access to crabbing, paddle boarding, and lagoon swimming. Interiors are dressed as per a maritime style that makes it feel akin to a houseboat. Three balconies overlook the swimming pool and sun terrace while the loft space is fitted with a bar.

Thirteen guests, four bedrooms
Price: $1,300 per night

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Ocean City, New Jersey, bayfront vacation home

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This luxurious and family-friendly Ocean City Airbnb has a heated outdoor swimming pool and three boat slips. Stand-out features include the grand piano in the lounge, a telescope, and a spa bath in the master suite that overlooks the water. Perfect for all-season stays and catching the dramatic sunsets and sunrises that grace the city.

Sixteen guests, five bedrooms
Price: $900 per night

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The 5 Best Places To Visit in Wyoming, According To the Superintendent of Grand Teton National Park

More than 4 million travelers visit Yellowstone National Park each year, and more than 3 million visit Grand Teton National Park. Both parks are massive, and these numbers shouldn’t deter you – but if easy solitude is what you’re after, Wyoming has plenty to offer.

Matador spoke with Chip Jenkins, Superintendent at Grand Teton National Park, to get his insight into where travelers should spend time in Wyoming beyond the incredible national parks.

Jenkins has been at the helm of Grant Teton National Park since 2020 and has nearly four decades of experience behind the scenes of America’s national parks. First, Jenkins encourages travelers to Wyoming to check out the Wyoming Wonder Map, which shows places to visit in Wyoming based on visitors’ preferred activities and makes recommendations on where to stay.

“A part of what makes Grand Teton special is that it is part of a national system of parks that preserve America’s heritage for today’s and future generations,” Jenkins says. “It is truly remarkable that this country supports this kind of heritage preservation and continues to strive to make it accessible to our people.”

Wyoming is the least-populated state in the union, but the tenth-largest by area. That means there’s tons of open space to explore. Jenkins recommends these five places.

Bighorn Mountains

Photo: Steve Cukrov/Shutterstock

For a high-altitude adventure beyond Yellowstone and Grand Teton, head four hours east to the Bighorn Mountains. There, you’ll find more than 1,200 miles of trails to cover several weeks’ worth of exploring between Bighorn National Forest and Cloud Peak Wilderness. Wildlife spottings abound here at near-Yellowstone levels, including elk, deer, and antelope. If you hike through gorgeous Tensleep Canyon, you can stay overnight at one of the many campgrounds available throughout the Bighorns or opt for backcountry camping if you’re truly adventerous.

You’ll want to make it an overnight — or potentially two nights — if you attempt the 13,171-foot Cloud Peak, as the hike is 23 miles roundtrip. Sheridan is the largest nearby town and offers a variety of dining and lodging options.

Time to allow: One to three days

Matador’s guides to where to stay on your Wyoming road trip:

11 Jackson Hole Airbnb vacation rentals perfect for your next trip These Yellowstone Airbnbs near each entrance make for the perfect gateways to the park Plan your summer escape to these rustically gorgeous Rocky Mountain cabins

Green River Lakes and Squaretop Mountain

Photo: Cavan-Images/Shutterstock

Near Pinedale and just south of the national parks, the Green River Lakes offer a tranquil getaway from the hectic scene of Jackson in the summer. Get out on the water by boat, paddleboard, or kayak, or explore the beautiful Clear Creek Canyon on foot. One must-do in the area is the Clear Creek Natural Bridge, a rock bridge over a creek accessed via the 10-mile roundtrip Clear Creek Trail.

Squaretop Mountain is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Wyoming and certainly among its most photogenic natural landmarks. You can hike to the top of it, though the route is 30+ miles roundtrip and requires at least one overnight.

Time to allow: Two days 

Wind River Indian Reservation

Photo: dunn4040/Shutterstock

Southeast of Yellowstone National Park is the Wind River Indian Reservation, the nation’s seventh-largest. It’s home to the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho people and a prime place to visit to learn about regional history while simultaneously exploring the outdoors.

Your first stop should be the Eastern Shoshone Tribal Cultural Center in Fort Washakie to gain an understanding of how the region’s Indigenous peoples lived and cared for the land prior to the arrival of white settlers. Sacajawea, who guided Lewis and Clark, is buried nearby and many artifacts from her time are on display here at the center.

Hike the Wind River Range, and if you’re a climber, attempt the famed Wind River High Route. Other recommended activities for your intenirary include spending a night at the Shoshone Rose Casino and Hotel, fishing the Wind River, or taking a rafting trip with Wind River Canyon Whitewater.

Time to allow: One to two days

Devils Tower National Monument

Photo: Sulae/Shutterstock

Devils Tower rises 867 feet above the surrounding Black Hills of northeastern Wyoming. If you’re a climber, you already know it’s among the country’s most popular rock climbing destinations.

Between the tower and the NPS-protected land around it, there are five hiking trails, a campground, and several scenic viewpoints that offer distinct perspectives on this monolith made of rare phonolite porphyry igneous rock. And yes, it probably looks familiar: it’s the backdrop of the final scene in 1977’s Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

Time to allow: Half-day

Alcova Reservoir

Photo: John Doe/Shutterstock

Just southwest of Casper, Alcova Reservoir offers a similar experience to Grand Teton National Park’s Jackson Lake, but without the crowds. Motorboat rentals including jet skis are available at Alcova Resort, though the most peaceful way to experience the water is on a kayak, raft, or paddleboard. It’s one of the most beautiful, but also least-crowded, places to visit in Wyoming if you’re trying to spend time on the water to beat the summer midday heat. The Black Beach Campground is the largest and offers excellent beach access, though the Fremont Canyon Campground gives you the best access to exploring the hikes and water of the canyon.

Time to allow: One to three days

More like thisNational ParksThis Epic Fall Road Trip To Yellowstone and Grand Teton Bypasses the Crowds

Green Travel Ideas for Your Green Season Trip To Thailand

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A tropical climate blesses Thailand with warm temperatures all year-round, and while some seasons are balmier than others, there’s never really a bad time to go. Green season — aka rainy season, roughly June to September — marks the months when nature comes alive, the national parks flourish, and the waterfalls flow at full throttle.

Green season doesn’t mean solid rain, either. Showers usually arrive in the afternoon, and there are dry days amidst the thunder. What’s more, the rains are relatively easy to avoid, as Thailand has different climates across its various regions. Dodge the bulk of it (and the bulk of the crowds) with this guide, and spend your time enjoying sustainable, community-led, uncommon adventures in this off-peak season.

North Thailand

Photo: structuresxx/Shutterstock

North Thailand keeps visitors plenty busy with its forests, mountains, and ancient cities. The former capital of Chiang Mai has transformed into a wellness-conscious destination — and the city has a thriving farm-to-table food scene to match its healthy reputation. Case in point: Ginger Farm grows produce for their two city-based venues, Ginger Farm Kitchen and The House by Ginger, and you can visit their rural headquarters for a farming workshop.

Another long-standing favorite, Pun Pun Vegetarian Restaurant is the front end of an organic farm and seed-saving center that also focuses on rewilding. For some rural R&R, meanwhile, book a stay at Mala Dhara Eco Resort, an earthy retreat center and organic farm serving tasty plant-based foods.

To get further out of the city and up into the mountains, take the winding northwestern road to Pai, a small, relaxed town surrounded by sprawling rice paddies that are at their most vivid green in the off-season. It’s also a good time to visit Pai’s hot springs and waterfalls, as the waters run deep this time of year.

Southeast of Chiang Mai, Lampang is a town with some serious history, being one of the teak wood industry’s main hubs. You can stay at a host village such as Ban Tha Ma-O Community to meet the locals and try their foods and handicrafts. It’s just one of 22 community tourism opportunities offered by Thailand Village Academy.

Central (Bangkok) and North East Thailand

Photo: Day2505/Shutterstock

The rainy season in Bangkok stretches from April (the hottest month) to October, but unlike in many of the neighboring areas, storms often pass quickly. Think of the ephemeral showers as the perfect excuse to pop into a street food stall and grab lunch or to simply cool down during the heat of the day.

When you’re in the city, opt for an eco-stay such as Bangkok Tree House, where the environment is so tranquil you’ll wonder if you’re still in the capital. And check out local rewilding initiatives such as the sprawling Metro Forest, a massive regeneration project just a few miles as the crow flies from Suvarnabhumi International Airport.

If you’re craving more off-the-beaten-path experiences, there are blossoming community tourism projects like Meet in the Village, where guests are invited to take part in workshops at 10 villages across the country. Their list includes Kalasin and Roi Et in the North East, giving visitors the opportunity to really immerse themselves in local village culture.

And no green season trip to North East Thailand should skip the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival. The two-day event packs in tons of cultural festivities including music and dancing, theater shows, Muay Thai boxing matches, and street processions. Admire the amazingly intricate candlewax sculptures on display (which give the festival its name), and take this opportunity to explore the regional cuisine of Isan, Thailand’s North East.

South Thailand

Photo: Don Mammoser/Shutterstock

The southernmost reaches of Thailand stretch long and thin like a land bridge to Malaysia, with hundreds of islands dotted on both sides of the mainland. To the west is the Andaman Sea, which has a different climate than the Gulf of Thailand in the east.

On the Andaman side, Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, experiences monsoon-driven rainfall from May to October. However, this tends to lower the temperature, meaning green season might just be the perfect time to go if you’re looking to avoid the hottest weather. Phuket’s colorful old town is great to visit in the off-season — smaller crowds make the picturesque Sino-Portuguese architecture all the more enjoyable. There’s a number of sustainably minded resorts on the island to consider for your trip — the Amari Phuket is a sophisticated stay and just one of many spots across the country that has adopted practices.

On the mainland, there are myriad natural wonders to take in and enjoy. Krabi Hot Springs are second only to those in Pai, with waters heated from the Earth’s core bubbling into a river, primed for a soak. The wildly scenic national parks of Khao Lak and Khao Sok are at their most vibrant during green season, and both have a solid selection of eco-resorts. Check out the sumptuous Merlin Resort near the former and the charming Our Jungle Camp close to the latter.

Off the eastern coast, the Gulf of Thailand sees more rain arriving in October and November, so plan your early green season trip activities here. An off-season visit to the Samui archipelago, including luxurious Ko Samui, vibesy Ko Pha-Ngan, the neighboring paradise islands of Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park, and the small, relaxed Ko Tao, means fewer crowds and lower prices.

There’s loads of green-minded initiatives on these islands, too: Trash Hero organizes regular clean-ups of Ko Samui and Ko Pha-Ngan’s gorgeous beaches, as well as other beaches around the country. Ko Pha-Ngan is home to a lush community garden, just one of the many projects of Eco Thailand, and there’s ocean-friendly, mindful diving in Ko Tao, provided by the likes of water enthusiasts Nitro Koh Tao. Jump in and watch as your green season adventure transforms to deepest blue.

Thailand is open! Book your flight on Qatar Airways now.