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What Exactly Is Turbulence and Is It Dangerous? An Aviation Expert Explains Everything You Need To Know

“Fear of flying” is a bit of a misnomer. It’s usually not a fear of flying itself, but of what may go wrong once you’re up there. After all, you’re thousands of feet in the air, in a giant metallic capsule, hurtling through the sky at 500 miles per hour, at the mercy of the elements. Despite all that, you might even forget you’re on a plane at all if not for one annoying (or terrifying) reminder: turbulence.

It feels like the plane is bouncing over a pothole-riddled road. But instead of cursing your city’s public works department, you’re gripping the seat in front of you and holding on for dear life. We all know turbulence is a common part of flying and mostly harmless, but that doesn’t always suppress the visceral gut response of “oh my God, this is it, we’re going down.” On a recent Air Canada flight to Australia, severe turbulence even injured over 30 passengers.

So—is turbulence dangerous? Is the mild heart attack you have every time the plane hits a nasty bump actually justified? We spoke to Mark Baier, CEO and aviation expert at AviationManuals, to get answers to all your turbulence-related questions.

Matador: What exactly is turbulence?

Mark Baier: Turbulence is an area of disturbed air through which an aircraft is flying. When an aircraft wing passes through this disturbed air, it generates inconsistent lift, so that is what commonly causes the “bumpy ride” passengers experience on an airplane.

Some of the most common sources of turbulence are wind shear, the jet stream, weather such as thunderstorms or areas where cold and warm fronts meet, as well as mountains, which can push air up or down.

How can pilots predict turbulence in advance?

Turbulence is hard to predict, but the aviation industry has set up several tools to help pilots better identify potential areas of turbulence. Along with weather forecast sources, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Aviation Weather Center produces and collects weather reports, forecasts, and pilot reports (information submitted by pilots encountering turbulence), which when put together can help identify the presence of turbulent conditions.

Are there different categories of turbulence? What are they?

Turbulence classification is categorized by intensity and is described as light, moderate, severe, or extreme. The intensity is generally determined by the pilots encountering it based on standardized criteria describing the effect of the turbulence on the aircraft.

Can turbulence actually cause passengers serious harm?

Injury due to turbulence does happen, but it is not generally the turbulence itself. Injuries usually happen because unsecured items in an aircraft hit passengers, or an unbuckled passenger is thrown out of their seat and hits something in the cabin. Even so, serious harm is still rare. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has had just over 75 reports of crewmembers or passengers becoming seriously injured due to encounters with turbulence during the past 10 years.

Do seat belts actually make a difference in keeping us safe from turbulence?

Absolutely. Injuries due to turbulence are almost always associated with aircraft occupants not wearing their seatbelts at the time of encountering turbulence. It is important for passengers to follow their crew’s instructions to keep their seatbelts fastened at all times during flight, as turbulence may be encountered with little or no warning.

Do some planes handle turbulence better than others?

In general, turbulence tends to “feel” less severe in larger aircraft because of the larger wing surface area. However, that does not make them immune to it. Turbulence can be felt in all aircraft, from the small single-engine hobby plane to the gargantuan Airbus A380.

Can turbulence be powerful enough to bring down a plane?

If an aircraft is in flight at high altitude, there is generally little to no risk of turbulence bringing down a plane on its own. Even when closer to the ground, such as on approach to an airport, there is generally only one type of turbulence, namely wind shear, that in incredibly rare cases can bring down an aircraft. Pilots intentionally avoid these areas, and aircraft technology has advanced to now include tools such as wind shear detection, to further help pilots with avoidance.

Which airspaces around the world get the most turbulence?

There is no specific area of the world that sees the “most” turbulence, since turbulence is highly dependent on weather and local conditions at the time. That being said, flights operating near the jet stream (particularly during the winter months), near convective activity such as thunderstorms, and crossing cold or warm fronts are more likely to encounter turbulence.

More like thisTravelHow To Manage a Fear of Flying When You Love To Travel

These Are the 11 Cheapest Michelin-Starred Restaurants in the World

Food is one of the best ways to get a feel for a new destination. You can find some great eats, if you know where to look. And most experienced travelers know you don’t have to spend a lot to eat well on vacation. Most people on a budget think that they’re exlcuded from eating at Michelin-starred restaurants, but surprisingly, that’s not the case. Just because you don’t have the cash to spend at the most expensive restaurant in the world doesn’t mean you can’t taste critically acclaimed food. Michelin stars have been awarded to restaurants across price ranges. A study conducted by Money.co.uk, a product comparison service, found the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurants in the world — useful if you like to plan trips around where to eat but want to be frugal. Just remember that when it comes to Michelin-starred restaurants, cheap is relative. You might not be spending $500, but you’ll still have to shell out some serious cash.

The third cheapest Michelin star restaurant included in the study is Nakashima in Hiroshima, Japan, with the set menu running you $142. Nakashima serves kaiseki cuisine, a tasting menu often served at Japanese tea ceremonies. The restaurant is located in the affluent Hakushima district. In second place is Lung King Heen in Four Seasons Hong Kong. The set menu is priced for two people, averaging at about $126 per person. The Cantonese restaurant is known for their delicious seafood and dim sum. And finally, the least expensive restaurant on the list is King’s Joy in Beijing, China. For $110 you’ll get to eat lots of fusion vegetarian options in a transformed courtyard house with a glass-roofed dining room.

The cheapest Michelin-starred restaurants in the worldKing’s Joy: Beijing, China, $110Lung King Heen: Hong Kong, $126Nakashima – Hiroshima, Japan, $142Restaurant Überfahrt: Rottach-Egern, Germany, $161Kikunoi Honten: Kyoto, Japan, $165Dal Pescatore: Canneto sull’Oglio, Italy, $165Kashiwaya: Osaka, Japan, $181Restaurant Gordon Ramsay: London, UK, $184Alain Ducasse at the Dorchester: London, UK, $184Kei: Paris, France, $187Reale: Castel di Sangro, Italy, $187

Given these prices, it’s fair to say that although these aren’t the most expensive Michelin star restaurants in the world, it doesn’t mean they won’t cost you a pretty penny, so if you want to give one a try, be sure to carve out some cash within your budget. You may end up having a meal you’ll never forget.

More like thisRestaurants + BarsThe 9 Best Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Small Towns

7 Mexico Resorts That You’ll Want To Book for the Restaurants Alone

Whether you’re a fan of all-inclusive resorts or prefer to dine a la carte when taking a dreamy beach vacation at a resort, there’s no guarantee that every property – no matter how expensive the rooms — will serve five-star food. Not all resort restaurants are created equal. Especially in a place like Mexico, where the cuisine is well known to be among the very best in the world, smart travelers will situate themselves in a place where they can sample the local dishes. These resorts in Mexico go above and beyond when it comes to culinary excellence, so you can expect inventive dishes made with top-notch ingredients, beautifully-crafted cocktails, curated wine lists, hands-on cooking workshops, and renowned chefs at the helm of their on-property restaurants. From Baja to the Riviera Maya, these resort restaurants in Mexico need to be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Resorts in Mexico with the best restaurantsChileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection

Photo: Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection

The rocky beaches of Los Cabos aren’t always the most swimmable, but Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection is nestled along a protected cove where guests can swim in turquoise waters and see pristine coral reefs. Water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking are on the docket, as well as relaxing by the three-tier infinity pool.

The resort is also known for its culinary excellence and offers hands-on experiences like a “History of Mexican Cuisine Workshop” and “Agave Journey.” In addition, it houses four restaurants and bars. COMAL is considered one of Cabo’s best restaurants, and the menu highlights innovative takes on regional flavors – think blue corn sopes with duck carnitas and Baja scallop aguachile with chiltepin, turnip, and koji.

To celebrate its fifth anniversary in 2022, COMAL is hosting a series of renowned Latin American chefs as part of Baja Lab Kitchen, where they will collaborate alongside executive chef Yvan Mucharraz. New to the property this year is YAYA, a female-led Californian and Latin American restaurant that’s helmed by chef Eliana Godinez and mixologist Yared Alba. Local ingredients and live fire cooking turn out dishes like roasted sunchokes with date sauce and poblano, while creative cocktails like the Sesamo (made with coconut-sesame oil fat-washed gin, limoncello, and palo santo bitter) feature Mexico-made spirits.

Chablé Maroma

White sand beaches and the rainforest canopy await along the coasts of Riviera Maya, and Chablé Maroma syncs wellness amenities with the surrounding nature for a mind and body retreat.

Guests can get moving with activities like diving and beach yoga or relax and unwind with a spa treatment or in the water therapy pool. Chablé Maroma’s culinary program – helmed by award-winning Chef Jorge Vallejo of Quintonil in Mexico City – gets guests acquainted with Mayan culture and cuisine.

The tasting menu at Bu’ul offers dishes like cactus ceviche, venison carpaccio, and cured hamachi into works of art that are almost too pretty to eat, and the restaurant features an outstanding wine list that you can pair with each dish.

Poolside restaurant Kaban offers gorgeous views and dishes that highlight fresh produce and seafood like tuna tostadas and crispy octopus tacos. Meanwhile, the drinks are just as gorgeous as the food at Raw Bar, where you can sip a zesty, refreshing Spicy Roasted Pineapple Margarita. The resort also offers culinary experiences like wine tastings and cooking classes so you can get up close and personal with Mexican flavors and techniques.

ACRE

Photo: ACRE

If your main vacation priorities are to relax and reconnect with nature, book a stay at ACRE, a lush oasis that’s tucked into the foothills of San Jose del Cabo. The modern resort is set on 25 acres of greenery, so expect to see citrus trees and agave plants while roaming the grounds or retreating to one of 12 private treehouses, which are furnished with plush king beds and private terraces.

ACRE’s award-winning restaurant is a destination in its own right. The menu is truly farm-to-table, as the kitchen sources 70 percent of its ingredients – including fruits, vegetables, and herbs – from the on-site working farm and orchard.

Expect dishes that infuse local ingredients with global flavors, like Baja oysters with kimchi mignonette and citrus ponzu, and roasted suckling pig with cactus salad and grilled pineapple-habanero relish. The cocktail program, created by Vancouver’s Keefer Bar, focuses on refreshing original drinks like the Agave Silvestre, a mix of tequila, tarragon-infused elderflower liqueur, celery bitters, lime, and agave syrup. The property even serves its own brand of mezcal which is sourced from the best small-batch Mezcaleros.

Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita

Photo: Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita

For those seeking the beauty of Bahía de Banderas without the crowds of Puerto Vallarta, Punta Mita is a quieter locale that’s perfect for a romantic getaway or low-key trip with friends.

With its prime location on the Pacific coast, you’ll never miss an epic sunset or salty ocean breeze when staying at Four Seasons Resort Puerto Mita. Soak it all in from your casita’s private terrace, or book a suite and take a dip in the private plunge pool. When all of that relaxing has worked up an appetite, indulge in one of the resort’s 10 restaurants and bars.

At Bahía by Richard Sandoval, guests can enjoy zarandeado-style catch of the day, a 500-year-old method for grilling fish that originated in Nayarit. The fish is marinated in adobo and citrus before it’s grilled over hot coals in a wood-fired oven. At Aramara – which was just named in the 2022 edition of the Greatest Mexican Restaurants Guide – Chef Jorge González celebrates Asian cuisine and highlights local ingredients in dishes like sashimi with Ancho Reyes ponzu and five spiced duck. Hop onto a bar stool at Mez to try their collection of agave spirits, including 70 types of mezcal and lesser-known varieties like sotol and raicilla.

Viceroy Los Cabos

Photo: Viceroy Los Cabos

Luxurious serenity awaits at Viceroy Los Cabos. The modern design by architect Miguel Angel Aragonés highlights cinematic views of the Sea of Cortés, and guest rooms are designed with floor-to-ceiling windows and private patios and balconies so guests can take in the views.

In addition to amenities like five pools, an on-property movie theater, and full-service spa, the resort has six restaurants and bars, all of them excellent. Earlier this year, they debuted their latest concept, Dalia, where Chef Carlos Terán blends traditional Mediterranean flavors with Baja culinary influences.

Expect fresh preparations like mussels with Pernod, chorizo, fennel, and mint, and a Greek lamb shank braised with lemon and herbs. Pop into Casero’s indoor/outdoor dining room for breakfast or lunch where you can nosh on tacos made with freshly pressed tortillas. Visit Nido – which is surrounded by a stunning nest-like structure – for ceviche, sashimi, and robatayaki, and end the night with a signature cocktail or artisan Mexican beer at Otro Bar, which also serves coffee and pastries by day.

Hotel Xcaret Arte

Opened in July 2021, this brand new property was designed to blend eco-architecture with the natural landscape of the surrounding Mayan region. Hotel Xcaret Arte pays homage to Mexican artists, which can be seen in the property’s 900 adults-only suites that are spread across five different buildings, or casas. The hotel excels in the culinary arts as well, as it brought together some of the best names in Mexican gastronomy for the resort’s nine restaurants.

At Xaak, Chef Ricardo Muñoz Zurita’s eight-course tasting menu changes often and is a tribute to regional food with pre-Colombian influences. Michelin-starred Chef Paco Méndez also offers a prix-fixe menu at Encanta, which celebrates Mexican cuisine with global influences from Barcelona to the Caribbean. Expect playful, delicious dishes like a Caesar salad tostada and seared ribeye with avocado crema.

At Chino Poblano, Chef Jonatán Gómez Luna melds cuisines from Puebla and China, and the Peking duck served in a ceramic bird is a must-order during your stay. Many of the casas have their own rooftop bars, so stop by each one for a different drink and new view.

Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort

Photo: Las Ventanas al Paraiso

Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort, has been welcoming guests to its luxurious Los Cabos property since 1997. Spend all day basking in the sun at the expansive infinity pool or lazy river that winds through an artwork-filled grotto, and treat yourself to pampering at the spa and salon.

Upon check-in, you’ll be welcomed by an in-room tequila amenity and fresh fruit that’s replenished daily. The property’s five restaurants and bars all offer a different taste of the destination. Alebrije celebrates Oaxacan cuisine, and dishes like roasted mushrooms mole amarillito and grilled octopus with peanut sauce and huitlacoche are meant to be served family-style.

The restaurant also boasts the largest mezcal collection in Baja. At Sea Grill, dishes like pork shank with pineapple puree, eggplant puree, and pickled vegetables are cooked over fire. End the evening at La Botica, a speakeasy piano bar that serves inventive signature drinks, as well as Prohibition-era classics. If you’re feeling peckish after a nightcap, grab a snack at La Botica’s late night food truck, which serves bites like tacos, mini burgers, and fries.

More like this11 All-Inclusive Beach Resorts in Mexico for Under $300 a Night

7 Resort Restaurants in Mexico That Are Creative, Original, and Luxurious

Whether you’re a fan of all-inclusive resorts or prefer to dine a la carte when taking a dreamy beach vacation at a resort, there’s no guarantee that every property – no matter how expensive the rooms — will serve five-star food. Not all resort restaurants are created equal. Especially in a place like Mexico, where the cuisine is well known to be among the very best in the world, smart travelers will situate themselves in a place where they can sample the local dishes. These resorts in Mexico go above and beyond when it comes to culinary excellence, so you can expect inventive dishes made with top-notch ingredients, beautifully-crafted cocktails, curated wine lists, hands-on cooking workshops, and renowned chefs at the helm of their on-property restaurants. From Baja to the Riviera Maya, these resort restaurants in Mexico need to be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Resorts in Mexico with the best restaurantsChileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection

Photo: Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection

The rocky beaches of Los Cabos aren’t always the most swimmable, but Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection is nestled along a protected cove where guests can swim in turquoise waters and see pristine coral reefs. Water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking are on the docket, as well as relaxing by the three-tier infinity pool.

The resort is also known for its culinary excellence and offers hands-on experiences like a “History of Mexican Cuisine Workshop” and “Agave Journey.” In addition, it houses four restaurants and bars. COMAL is considered one of Cabo’s best restaurants, and the menu highlights innovative takes on regional flavors – think blue corn sopes with duck carnitas and Baja scallop aguachile with chiltepin, turnip, and koji.

To celebrate its fifth anniversary in 2022, COMAL is hosting a series of renowned Latin American chefs as part of Baja Lab Kitchen, where they will collaborate alongside executive chef Yvan Mucharraz. New to the property this year is YAYA, a female-led Californian and Latin American restaurant that’s helmed by chef Eliana Godinez and mixologist Yared Alba. Local ingredients and live fire cooking turn out dishes like roasted sunchokes with date sauce and poblano, while creative cocktails like the Sesamo (made with coconut-sesame oil fat-washed gin, limoncello, and palo santo bitter) feature Mexico-made spirits.

Chablé Maroma

White sand beaches and the rainforest canopy await along the coasts of Riviera Maya, and Chablé Maroma syncs wellness amenities with the surrounding nature for a mind and body retreat.

Guests can get moving with activities like diving and beach yoga or relax and unwind with a spa treatment or in the water therapy pool. Chablé Maroma’s culinary program – helmed by award-winning Chef Jorge Vallejo of Quintonil in Mexico City – gets guests acquainted with Mayan culture and cuisine.

The tasting menu at Bu’ul offers dishes like cactus ceviche, venison carpaccio, and cured hamachi into works of art that are almost too pretty to eat, and the restaurant features an outstanding wine list that you can pair with each dish.

Poolside restaurant Kaban offers gorgeous views and dishes that highlight fresh produce and seafood like tuna tostadas and crispy octopus tacos. Meanwhile, the drinks are just as gorgeous as the food at Raw Bar, where you can sip a zesty, refreshing Spicy Roasted Pineapple Margarita. The resort also offers culinary experiences like wine tastings and cooking classes so you can get up close and personal with Mexican flavors and techniques.

ACRE

Photo: ACRE

If your main vacation priorities are to relax and reconnect with nature, book a stay at ACRE, a lush oasis that’s tucked into the foothills of San Jose del Cabo. The modern resort is set on 25 acres of greenery, so expect to see citrus trees and agave plants while roaming the grounds or retreating to one of 12 private treehouses, which are furnished with plush king beds and private terraces.

ACRE’s award-winning restaurant is a destination in its own right. The menu is truly farm-to-table, as the kitchen sources 70 percent of its ingredients – including fruits, vegetables, and herbs – from the on-site working farm and orchard.

Expect dishes that infuse local ingredients with global flavors, like Baja oysters with kimchi mignonette and citrus ponzu, and roasted suckling pig with cactus salad and grilled pineapple-habanero relish. The cocktail program, created by Vancouver’s Keefer Bar, focuses on refreshing original drinks like the Agave Silvestre, a mix of tequila, tarragon-infused elderflower liqueur, celery bitters, lime, and agave syrup. The property even serves its own brand of mezcal which is sourced from the best small-batch Mezcaleros.

Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita

Photo: Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita

For those seeking the beauty of Bahía de Banderas without the crowds of Puerto Vallarta, Punta Mita is a quieter locale that’s perfect for a romantic getaway or low-key trip with friends.

With its prime location on the Pacific coast, you’ll never miss an epic sunset or salty ocean breeze when staying at Four Seasons Resort Puerto Mita. Soak it all in from your casita’s private terrace, or book a suite and take a dip in the private plunge pool. When all of that relaxing has worked up an appetite, indulge in one of the resort’s 10 restaurants and bars.

At Bahía by Richard Sandoval, guests can enjoy zarandeado-style catch of the day, a 500-year-old method for grilling fish that originated in Nayarit. The fish is marinated in adobo and citrus before it’s grilled over hot coals in a wood-fired oven. At Aramara – which was just named in the 2022 edition of the Greatest Mexican Restaurants Guide – Chef Jorge González celebrates Asian cuisine and highlights local ingredients in dishes like sashimi with Ancho Reyes ponzu and five spiced duck. Hop onto a bar stool at Mez to try their collection of agave spirits, including 70 types of mezcal and lesser-known varieties like sotol and raicilla.

Viceroy Los Cabos

Photo: Viceroy Los Cabos

Luxurious serenity awaits at Viceroy Los Cabos. The modern design by architect Miguel Angel Aragonés highlights cinematic views of the Sea of Cortés, and guest rooms are designed with floor-to-ceiling windows and private patios and balconies so guests can take in the views.

In addition to amenities like five pools, an on-property movie theater, and full-service spa, the resort has six restaurants and bars, all of them excellent. Earlier this year, they debuted their latest concept, Dalia, where Chef Carlos Terán blends traditional Mediterranean flavors with Baja culinary influences.

Expect fresh preparations like mussels with Pernod, chorizo, fennel, and mint, and a Greek lamb shank braised with lemon and herbs. Pop into Casero’s indoor/outdoor dining room for breakfast or lunch where you can nosh on tacos made with freshly pressed tortillas. Visit Nido – which is surrounded by a stunning nest-like structure – for ceviche, sashimi, and robatayaki, and end the night with a signature cocktail or artisan Mexican beer at Otro Bar, which also serves coffee and pastries by day.

Hotel Xcaret Arte

Opened in July 2021, this brand new property was designed to blend eco-architecture with the natural landscape of the surrounding Mayan region. Hotel Xcaret Arte pays homage to Mexican artists, which can be seen in the property’s 900 adults-only suites that are spread across five different buildings, or casas. The hotel excels in the culinary arts as well, as it brought together some of the best names in Mexican gastronomy for the resort’s nine restaurants.

At Xaak, Chef Ricardo Muñoz Zurita’s eight-course tasting menu changes often and is a tribute to regional food with pre-Colombian influences. Michelin-starred Chef Paco Méndez also offers a prix-fixe menu at Encanta, which celebrates Mexican cuisine with global influences from Barcelona to the Caribbean. Expect playful, delicious dishes like a Caesar salad tostada and seared ribeye with avocado crema.

At Chino Poblano, Chef Jonatán Gómez Luna melds cuisines from Puebla and China, and the Peking duck served in a ceramic bird is a must-order during your stay. Many of the casas have their own rooftop bars, so stop by each one for a different drink and new view.

Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort

Photo: Las Ventanas al Paraiso

Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort, has been welcoming guests to its luxurious Los Cabos property since 1997. Spend all day basking in the sun at the expansive infinity pool or lazy river that winds through an artwork-filled grotto, and treat yourself to pampering at the spa and salon.

Upon check-in, you’ll be welcomed by an in-room tequila amenity and fresh fruit that’s replenished daily. The property’s five restaurants and bars all offer a different taste of the destination. Alebrije celebrates Oaxacan cuisine, and dishes like roasted mushrooms mole amarillito and grilled octopus with peanut sauce and huitlacoche are meant to be served family-style.

The restaurant also boasts the largest mezcal collection in Baja. At Sea Grill, dishes like pork shank with pineapple puree, eggplant puree, and pickled vegetables are cooked over fire. End the evening at La Botica, a speakeasy piano bar that serves inventive signature drinks, as well as Prohibition-era classics. If you’re feeling peckish after a nightcap, grab a snack at La Botica’s late night food truck, which serves bites like tacos, mini burgers, and fries.

More like this11 All-Inclusive Beach Resorts in Mexico for Under $300 a Night

Relax and Rejuvenate at These 7 Alpine Colorado Hot Springs

Nothing caps an epic alpine excursion like a soak in a thermal hot spring. Colorado is one of the best place in the country for exactly that experience, with dozens of spring-fed hot pools scattered across the Rockies from Steamboat Springs up north to Pagosa Springs down south. Each location is different, and that goes for both the pools themselves and the experience of visiting (and sometimes traveling to) each.

Before you hit the road, take a second to get up to speed with the best practices for visiting Colorado hot springs. The hot springs below are on a mix of private land (as is the case with hot springs resorts) and public land. Either way, they aren’t your home, so loud noise, obnoxious behavior, and nudity (outside of specified times and locations) are not acceptable or permitted. Always follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out everything you pack in (including empty beverage containers). Colorado hot springs etiquette is to not overcrowd the pools — give people space, and don’t overstay your welcome.

No matter which part of the state you plan to visit, here are the best Colorado hot springs resorts and primitive hot springs pools.

Now, let’s get soakin’.

The best wild Colorado hot springsPiedra River Hot Springs (Pagosa Springs)

Photo: ThisisPagosa.com

Piedra River Hot Springs are the “hack” of Colorado hot springs. North of Highway 160 between Pagosa Springs and Durango, this natural soak is hidden alongside the Piedra River and is reachable via a one-mile hike from the parking area. There are multiple pools available for soaking during most of the year, though in particularly low-water times (often late summer and early autumn), some areas may be too low for comfort. Spring is the best time to visit, once the snow has melted from the trail. The pools will be at their deepest and the warm water feels great after a day spent hiking in brisk mountain air.

How to get to Piedra River Hot Springs: Drive 20 miles west of Pagosa Springs on Highway 160 (or 40 miles east from Durango). Turn onto County Road 166 just past Chimney Rock. Continue up the dirt road for 6.7 miles. You’ll see the parking area at the intersection with Monument Park Road. Hike one mile from the Sheep Creek Trailhead.

Radium Hot Springs (Kremmling)

Photo: Flystock/Shutterstock

Just west of Kremmling, Radium Hot Springs is among the most picturesque of wild Colorado hot springs. There’s one pool tucked off the Colorado River, and it’s hardly ever visited by anyone other than locals — probably because few others how to get there. But it’s a chance to soak near the Colorado Rover headwaters overlooking the river basin with the mighty Rockies rising on both sides. You’ll need Chacos, Keen river shoes, or the equivalent to pass the hike to get here.

How to get to Radium Hot Springs: You’ll need an AWD or 4WD vehicle. Exit Interstate 70 onto Highway 40 north. At Kremmling, turn left onto Highway 9. Proceed for two miles to Trough Springs Road and turn right. Proceed for 12 miles until it hits a 4×4 road, and follow the road for about a mile to the river. Park, make your way down to the river, and walk upstream for a couple minutes until you see the hot spring pool underneath a rock outcropping.

Traveling in Colorado? Check out Matador’s Colorado accommodation guides to the best places to stay across the state: 11 unique Airbnb Colorado rental homes for your next group getaway10 Airbnb Estes Park rentals near Rocky Mountain National ParkThese Denver airport hotels put you close to the terminal with luxe amenitiesThe best Airbnbs in Denver for beer, 420, and mountain cultureVail Airbnbs that make you feel like you’re in the heart of BavariaAspen Airbnbs to chill like a celebrityStay near Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak at these Colorado Springs Airbnbs

Conundrum Hot Springs (Aspen)

Photo: Kris Wiktor/Shutterstock

In the Maroon Bells Wilderness outside Aspen, Conundrum Hot Springs is Colorado’s most epic — but you have to work for the reward. Reaching Conundrum requires an 8.5-mile hike with 2,400 feet of elevation gain. Fortunately, Mount Sopris, The Maroon Bells, and the rest of the Elk Mountains are your backdrop for the hike, which literally couldn’t be more beautiful.

Because of the effort of reaching Conundrum, many people opt to camp in the vicinity and make an overnight trip out of it. Because of this, the springs can turn into a bit of a party scene after dark on busy evenings. There is now a permit system in place for camping, due to issues with overcrowding in recent years. For the most peaceful experience, start hiking at dusk and plan to hit the springs in the late morning.

How to get to Conundrum Hot Springs: From Aspen, turn right at the Highway 82 roundabout onto Castle Creek Road. Proceed for five miles and turn right on Conundrum Road. Proceed for 1.1 miles to the trailhead parking area. Pparking is prohibited along Conundrum Road and you will be ticketed or towed, so only park in the lot.

The best Colorado hot springs resort staysThe Springs Resort (Pagosa Springs)

Photo: Victoria Ditkovsky/Shutterstock

Pagosa Springs hot springs tops many of a list of visitors’ “must-see sights” in Colorado. And the Springs Resort & Spa, downtown on the San Juan River, is an ideal setup for a relaxing mineral bath getaway. With 24 riverside geothermal baths ranging in temperature from lukewarm to the roasty “Lobster Pot,” you’d have to stay a weekend in order to try each one. The property also has a cafe and spa, and hotel guests can use the pools 24 hours a day.  If you’re not staying there, you  can buy a day pass online to use the pools on a reservation basis between 9 AM and 10 PM.

Insider’s tip: Add a dose of Scandinavian flare to your experience by moving from the hot springs to the much colder river, then back into the springs. It’s basically a homemade Scandinavian spa experience, and while it may or may not do much for your body, it’ll definitely help focus your mind.

How to get to Pagosa Hot Springs: Take US Highway 160 into Pagosa Springs from either the east (Denver, Colorado Springs, Alamosa) or west (Durango, Grand Junction). Turn south on to Hot Springs Boulevard and proceed for about half a mile. The parking lot will be on your right.

Iron Mountain Hot Springs (Glenwood Springs)

Photo: Iron Mountain Hot Springs

Iron Mountain Hot Springs opened in 2015 on the west side of town as an alternative to the busy Glenwood Hot Springs pools downtown. Similar to The Springs Resort in Pagosa Springs, Iron Mountain Hot Springs offers a collection of small tubs along the Colorado River, each at a different posted temperature. You’ll need a reservation for a three-hour soak, with tickets starting at $40 per person. The resort has 17 pools and the onsite Sopris Cafe offers healthy snacks and smoothies, along with treats for the kiddos.

Insider’s tip: Iron Mountain Hot Springs is one of the only Colorado hot springs resorts that serves beer. It’s in the cafe adjacent to the pools.

How to get there: Take Interstate 70 to Exit 114 (Midland Avenue) in Glenwood Springs. Follow it to Devereux Road and turn left. Drive for two miles and the resort will be on your left after crossing the Colorado River.

Strawberry Park Hot Springs (Steamboat Springs)

Photo: Teri Virbickis/Shutterstock

Strawberry Park Hot Springs toes the line between wild natural experience and well-maintained Colorado hot springs resort. You’ll need to either book a stay in the onsite lodging options (including mountain cabins, a train caboose, a shepherd’s wagon, or a campsite) or reserve a day spot in advance and pay $20 (cash only) at the door to visit between 10 AM and 10 PM.

The wild part comes in after the sun goes down as that’s when the clothes come off. Strawberry Park Hot Springs is clothing-optional after sunset. Be advised that it gets quite dark, and guests don’t take kindly to people flashing their cell phone lights on them when they’re in birthday-suit mode.

How to get there: From downtown Steamboat Springs, head north on 7th Street. Merge onto Missouri Avenue, then North Park Road, then Strawberry Park Road. Take a left where Strawberry Park Road merges with County Road 36. Follow County Road 36 to the resort.  Note: this road is steep and in winter, is often icy and/or covered in snow. You will need a 4WD vehicle with high clearance capable of off-road driving.

Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa (Moffett)

Photo: Joyful Journey Hot Springs

If you’ve been to Colorado’s Sangre de Cristo Mountains, you’ve felt the vibe — that eerie, unexplainable, exciting feeling that there’s something more out there much bigger than you out there. (Figuratively, of course. Or literally —  elk are pretty large.) That feeling is why the town of Crestone, just up the road from Joyful Journey Hot Springs, is known as Colorado’s spiritual crossroads. It’s a haven for new-age thought and home to dozens of spiritual sites spanning religions, beliefs, and eras.

This seemingly magnetic pull extends to Joyful Journey, a collection of maintained hot springs (and a motel). It’s a judgment-free place to loosen your mind and soul and — because the place is cannabis friendly —  maybe get inspired for an upcoming run of Dead shows. The pools face the majestic Sangre de Cristos, so whatever your spiritual flavor, it’ll be enhanced by some incredible views.

How to get there: If coming from Denver or Salida, head south on US 285, and turn off onto Highway 17. Joyful Journey will be shortly ahead on your left on County Road 58EE. If coming from Alamosa, head north on Highway 17 to County Road 58EE on the right.

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This Isla Holbox Resort Has the Draws of Tulum Without the Crowds or Seaweed

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. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

The first thing I notice as the speedboat pulls up to the dock at Margaritaville St. Somewhere Punta Coco by Karisma Resorts on Isla Holbox is how utterly void of seaweed the turquoise waters of the Caribbean are here. While much of the Riviera Maya coastline is currently muddled by a sea of Sargassum, in Holbox, there is nary a string.

There is, however, a long, near-empty stretch of porcelain white sand beach juxtaposed against a calm sea colored in varying shades of blue and green. The lack of seaweed when I visited wasn’t a fluke. Isla Holbox is just outside the gulf stream current belt that delivers the smelly, slimy brownish grass to beaches in Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cancun each summer.

Stepping off the boat and sliding my feet into the warm sea makes me feel like I’m back in the Maldives. The visuals are just as dreamy. But instead of taking 30 hours of flying to reach from my home base in Denver, reaching this island paradise in the Mexican Caribbean is a much more reasonable 3 hour and 50 minute flight to Cancun followed by a 2-hour car ride and 30-minutes in a speedboat.

I’m visiting Holbox, a Mexican island known for a laid back and bohemian vibe, for the grand opening of the inaugural St. Somewhere property, which is a new brand collaboration between Margaritaville and Karisma Hotels & Resorts. The concept combines fun and escapism with top-notch service and amenities, an open-air design concept, and an intimate vibe where the focus is very much on the local destination.

“Holbox island is a beautiful, remote destination, complete with adventure and wonder,” says Beat Müller, Senior Director of Operations at Margaritaville St. Somewhere. “The once-in-a-lifetime experiences that the island offers are truly spectacular, whether it’s swimming among the whale sharks to kayaking in the bioluminescent waters.”

Located on Punta Coco beach, St. Somewhere is the only resort on this side of the island, which means you’ll have the beach here mostly to yourself. Still lesser-known to travelers from the United States and Europe, Holbox feels like Tulum did a decade ago. Development is not yet out of control, and because Holbox is protected as part of the Yum Balam Biosphere Reserve, it’s unlikely to get so. Cars are forbidden and transport takes place by golf cart, bike or foot. There are just 1,200 hotel rooms on the small island and no high rises or large resorts. In fact, 60 percent of visitors come on a day trip from the Cancun area.

Margaritaville St. Somewhere is boho-chic boutique resort at its best

Photo: Margaritaville St. Somewhere Punta Coco by Karisma Resorts

Margaritaville St. Somewhere is a boutique resort that is boho-chic design at its best. The property isn’t a huge complex and it isn’t all-inclusive. Instead, it offers an intimate getaway to couples, families, and friends alike that exudes a barefoot luxe vibe combined with Holbox’s laidback energy.

The 39 suites feature colors and accents inspired by the sea, flora, and fauna that surround the resort. The six luxurious suite types are distributed in three-level buildings with a choice of plunge pools, terrace, or swim up suites with direct access to the main pool and swim-up bar. Each room is outfitted with upscale whitewashed furniture, natural parota wood tables, a king-size bed or two queen-size beds with tufted headboards, and a bathroom with a hard-carved marble sink and dual shower.

The resort, which is set on raised walkways above a mangrove forest facing the sea, also hosts two restaurants, a long narrow swimming pool with a swim-up bar on one end, and the aforementioned gorgeous stretch of beach with a roped off swimming area, cushioned sun-loungers and umbrellas, and food and beverage service. The resort also offers al fresco massages that integrate multiple techniques from cold cupping to Thai and reflexology for a holistic healing experience.

A sustainable and community minded approach

Photo: Margaritaville St. Somewhere Punta Coco by Karisma Resorts

Because Holbox is protected as an ecological reserve, builders had sustainability top of mind for St. Somewhere. Construction is limited to smaller footprint properties, and existing natural elements, like the red mangrove trees growing just beyond the beachfront, had to be protected during construction.

“We had to design the hotel with a local authority that supervises every ecological aspect of the island,” says Christian O’ Farrill Welter, one of property’s three owners. “They marked our red mangroves and we couldn’t touch them as they are protected by law. So we had to design everything around these trees. It was a challenge. This is why everything is built on top like a bridge so we don’t touch anything on the ground.”

Integrating, rather than alienating, the island’s local community was just as important as the sustainability when planning St. Somewhere.

“The resort is owned by three Mexican families and 100 percent of the investments are funded by Mexicans,” he says. “All the food served here is bought in to Holbox from local growers and the fish is also locally sourced. So what we are doing is working with the community and not against it. We are involving everyone from taxi drivers to market sales people to fisherman. We believe in and need to support our local community.”

The hotel also operates solar panels, and 30 percent of its hot water is heated by solar energy. Other sustainability initiatives include an on-site water treatment plant that uses wastewater to irrigate the plants around the hotel. Straws are only given on demand.

What to eat at St. Somewhere and around Holbox

Photo: Margaritaville St. Somewhere Punta Coco by Karisma Resorts

Serving self-described sea to table fare, the food and beverage program at St. Somewhere is on point. There’s one bar on-site and two open-air restaurants: The Sandbar & Pan American Grill and The Harbour House Peninsula Cuisine & Wood Stove Bar; although when I visited the menu at both restaurants was pretty much the same. This was okay, however, as downtown Holbox is an easy walk or golf cart taxi ride away and has dozens of dining and drinking options. I find when a resort has too many restaurants I don’t explore off property as much, which I always end up regretting.

The menu at St. Somewhere focuses almost entirely on locally inspired and sourced cuisine that’s typical of the Yucatán peninsula. You’ll find fresh ceviches in a few different styles, spear-caught fish served family style whole or as a filet, and the best shrimp tacos I tasted in Holbox.

Holbox is famous for its lobster pizza, and St. Somewhere does its own variation in a wood fire oven that was tasty, but not my favorite dish on the menu. Other non-Mexican fare includes a few pasta dishes and delicious bruschetta.

The craft cocktail menu has classics like piña coladas and margaritas, but also serves up some creative local drinks using tequila and mezcal.

What to do in Holbox: Tulum vibe minus the crowds and prices

Photo: Arkadij Schell/Shutterstock

While not the most affordable destination in Mexico by any means, Holbox is still affordable when compared to Tulum and matches that destination in its boho-chic and small hotel vibe. Unlike Tulum, it doesn’t yet suffer from too many tourists, hour long daily traffic jams, and cartel violence. And with the exception of St. Somewhere, all of the resorts, restaurants, and bars are located on Mosquito Beach or around the small downtown area, which is about 30 minutes by foot or 10 minutes by golf cart from the resort.

Holbox Island is an outdoor lover’s dream with plenty to explore. There’s deep sea fishing charters, kiteboarding lessons, and kayaking through the mangroves along with the bioluminescent waters famous to the area at night. Downtown is also filled with colorful street art that’s well worth exploring. Many of the paintings depict local culture, while others showcase wildlife and people.

If you’re traveling between June and mid-September, don’t miss an opportunity to swim with whale sharks, which is an adventure you won’t soon forget. Tours can be booked through St. Somewhere or in town. You’ll travel by boat for about one and half hours to the feeding ground of the world’s largest fish (don’t worry they are gentle and eat plankton) and can snorkel among them. I highly recommend investing in a waterproof camera like the GoPro Hero 10 to film these magnificent, gentle giants underwater. You’ll also want to refrain from using sunscreen on the boat ride as it can kill the plankton the whale sharks need to consume some 40 lbs of per day to power their up to 18-foot-long bodies.

How, and how much it costs, to get to St. Somewhere

Photo: m_boldrin/Shutterstock

There are multiple ways to reach Holbox from the Cancun area. It’s about a two hour drive from Cancun’s international airport to Chiquila Port, where you can catch a ferry or book a speed boat to Holbox. The trip takes between 20 and 30 minutes. If you drive yourself, there are plenty of parking options in Chiquila, as you can’t to take your car to the island. Two ferry companies, 9 Hermanos and Holbox Express, make the trip multiple times per day between 6 AM and 9:30 PM. Tickets cost about $5 for an adult and $4 for a child.

If you don’t want to drive, you can book a private transfer (around $235 for up to four people) or take a group minivan (around $27 including ferry ticket). There is also a tiny airport on the island with flights from Cancun costing around $800.

Depending on the season, St. Somewhere Margaritaville rooms start at about $260 per night.

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International Travelers No Long Need a Negative COVID-19 Test To Enter the US

International travelers coming into the United States will no longer be required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taking within one day of the flight. The Biden administration made the announcement today that the mandate expires on Sunday, June 12, at 12:01 AM EDT, according to the AP.

A mandate on testing for international travelers has been in place in some form for the past year. Exact qualifications have changed with variants, vaccines, and new information. In its latest iteration since the November omicron variant surge, air travelers had to test within one day of travel regardless of vaccination status or citizenship.

Notably, this rule didn’t apply to land border crossings, and many other countries dropped testing requirements months ago. In some cases, travelers were leaving countries with relatively low COVID rates and needing to have a rapid negative test to get into a US with significantly higher rates.

According to the AP, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will reevaluate any testing requirement needs every 90 days and there’s a possibility a new variant may lead to a reinstatement.

As with the mask mandate, travel industry leaders have pushed the Biden administration to drop the barriers to entry to the US to help boost one of the hardest hit industries over the past two years. Lifting the testing mandate makes international travel easier during a summer travel season that’s expected to be a big rebound of visitor numbers to get closer to, or greater than, 2019 numbers.

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These Airbnbs in Galena, Illinois, Showcase the Best of the Town

The small historic town of Galena, Illinois, is filled with many treasures, adventures, and exciting things to do. The city offers easy access to plenty of outdoor activities, museums, and delicious food and drink. Dive into the city’s history by staying at a historical Airbnb Galena IL house or cabin with plenty of space to roam around. You’ll surely get the Galena experience that everyone’s talking about.

We hope you love the Airbnb Galena Il 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.

Simplistic apartment overlooking Franklin and Main Street

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Check out this relaxing Airbnb Galena property overlooking Franklin and Main Street. This completely renovated apartment has original world brick and hardwood floors. The living room has an electric fireplace and an oversized comfy couch. The apartment is above Big Bills’ coffee shop and is near many shops, bars, and restaurants.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $91 per night

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Modern studio apartment in historic J.G. Schmohl building

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This gorgeous modern apartment in the historic J.G. Schmohl building was built around 1850 and is the perfect studio apartment for a couple or solo getaway. This sleek modern studio apartment has everything you need for a beautiful stay. Its located on the main drag and has a large window seat looking over Main Street.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $228 per night

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Traveling through Illinois? Check out Matador’s Illinois accommodations guides:The 10 coolest Airbnbs in Chicago

Crooked Creek Cabin near local attractions

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Bring friends or family to this unique and tranquil cabin experience. This remodeled cabin is 20 minutes from Galena, but it’s close to other local attractions like Diamond Joe Casino, Mississippi River Museum, Q Casino, and Mystique Community Ice Center. There is a spacious living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and an outdoor deck and fire pit.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $175 per night

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Cozy recently remolded Galena townhouse

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Enjoy this remodeled townhouse is just a short drive from the North Golf Course and centrally located near other attractions. The home has a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living room, and a lounge with a smart TV and a wood-burning fireplace. Enjoy nature with the back deck equipped with a grill, table, and chair to enjoy the outside world.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $162 per night

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Spacious home in North Star perfect for large groups

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Check out this rare find in North Star, Galena. If you’re looking for enough space for a family getaway, this gorgeous home is just for you. There is a large gathering area, fully equipped kitchen, dining room, and a screened-in porch on the main floor. Rooms occupy the home’s upper level, and the lower level has a fourth bedroom, a family game room, and a second kitchen. Outside, a hot tub is available all year round and a fire pit to hang around and look up at the night sky.

Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $570 per night

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Relaxing getaway villa with stunning views

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This modern zen retreat is the perfect place for any type of vacation. Whether with family, friends, a significant other, or just riding solo, this home is ready. The townhouse is a two-bedroom and bathroom loft-style home that greets you with two skylight windows in the entryway and is only minutes away from historic downtown Galena. The house has a chef’s kitchen, a dining area, and a living room packed with everything you need for a comfortable stay. There is a back patio with outdoor seating and a propane grill, and there is access to the indoor and outdoor pools at the Galena Territory Owner’s Club.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $208 per night

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Rocky Hill Retreat near downtown Galena

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Located in a quaint neighborhood just 1.5 miles to Chestnut Mountain and eight miles to historic downtown Galena is the Rocky Hill Retreat. This completely renovated home has four bedrooms and two bathrooms, one of the most unique Airbnb Galena IL rentals, surrounded by the forest but a bike ride from the strip. There is plenty of space for the family with its huge living room an outside space with a gas grill, a dining area for eight, and a firepit.

Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $400 per night

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Shenandoah Ridge

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Shenandoah Ridge is a luxurious Airbnb in Galena, Illinois, ideal for your group getaway. Enjoy the bright, open floor plan with a fireplace and large windows to enjoy the views. There is a spacious lower-level open room with a table for games and puzzles and access to the outside patio.

Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $691 per night

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The Best Beaches for a Long Weekend Trip From New York City

Summer in New York City means outdoor festivals, al fresco dining, and day-long picnics in the park. But it also means mystery street smells, sidewalks so hot they could melt diamonds, and the dreaded subway car with a broken AC. Even die-hard New Yorkers need a weekend away from the mayhem, and when the weather is warm, there’s no better place to escape than the beaches near New York City.

Outside of the city, the beach takes on various forms. Choose from lively port towns with bustling boardwalks and Atlantic islands that feel more serene. Head upstate, and it’s possible to sun on sandy shores of freshwater lakes or float down rivers on their way out to sea. The best part? New York’s go-to beach getaways are only a few hours away, and sometimes, you can take public transit to get there.

From Maine to Maryland and everywhere in between, here are 10 dynamic waterfront retreats where you can leave the city grind behind and set your clock to beach time.

We hope you love our accommodation recommendations at beaches near New York City. Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.

Asbury Park, New Jersey

Photo: Sky Cinema/Shutterstock

This artsy Jersey Shore enclave is where New York’s trendy set spends their summer weekends. Skip down the boardwalk between May and September, and you may feel like you’re in Brooklyn. Young families and LGBTQ+ folks set up camp together on the beach. Rock and soul are equally likely to be heard from nearby concert venues like Wonder Bar. Murals created by the Wooden Walls Project give the town some Bushwick flavor, and the boardwalk’s international mix of bars and restaurants rival those on Bedford Avenue.

Photo: John Arehart/Shutterstock

Dig beneath the surface, and Asbury Park reveals more surprises. Art Deco architecture, including the ornate Convention Hall, rises from the beach like 1920s time capsules. Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi both got their start at The Stone Pony, a local concert venue going strong since 1974. Asbury Park might’ve hit a rough patch in the second half of the 20th century, but people keep coming back because of the town’s undeniable appeal.

Today, this tiny seaside town is having a renaissance — which translates to boutique hotels, hip shops, and exciting eateries opening all the time. Join the NYC crowds who arrive via the Seastreak Ferry or NJ Transit to see what the fuss is about.

Where to stay

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This newly-renovated homestay with mid-century modern style is a few blocks from the action on Ocean Avenue. Bring the provided travel chairs to the beach and set up for a day of people watching.

Montauk, New York

Photo: haveseen/Shutterstock

There are three main ways to travel from New York City to Montauk — drive the length of Long Island, hop on the LIRR, or ride the Hampton Jitney. Whatever you choose, the result is the same: After roughly three hours, it feels like you’ve reached the world’s end.

Placed like a pearl on Long Island’s easternmost tip, Montauk’s beauty attracts a diversity of crowds. Spend a day exploring town, and you’ll see them all. The Hamptons elite head to designer boutiques like Cynthia Rowley and contemporary art galleries like The Ranch. Working-class seafarers dock their boats on Montauk Lake, home to New York’s largest fishing fleet. Party people in their 20s and 30s imbibe at uber-hip Ruschmeyer’s and low-key Montauk Brewing Company.

Photo: James Kirkikis/Shutterstock

All of these archetypes come together on the fringe of Montauk’s coast. The most famous of these spots is Ditch Plain Beach, regarded as one of the Eastern Seaboard’s top surf destinations. Surfing newbies should book a lesson with the acclaimed Engstrom school. Watch as sun-bleached surfers paddle longboards toward breaking waves — a practice some wave warriors keep up in the dead of winter.

But the cold season in a beach town isn’t highly recommended. Visit in summer, when crowds dive in the water at family-favored Kirk Park Beach. Autumn is ideal for thinner crowds: Walk along Montauk Point State Park‘s rocky shore or hike the bluffs at Shadmoor State Park, and you may feel like the only person on Earth.

Where to stay

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Listen to waves breaking at this 1940s cabin, located one-hundred paces from the private beach at Heather Hills. Don’t be fooled by the vintage nautical decor – the interior is tricked out with modern appliances and high-end home goods, making this an upscale place to rest your head.

Lake George, New York

Photo: Colin D. Young/Shutterstock

Crowned by the Adirondack Mountains and dotted with hundreds of islands, it’s no wonder Lake George is commonly called the “Queen of the American Lakes.” The aquamarine pool’s 109 miles of shoreline wind through old-growth forests and historic hamlets, creating the ultimate kingdom for outdoor enthusiasts.

Venture to the lake’s south side, where families spend summer afternoons lounging on the 1700-foot expanse of Million Dollar Beach, and hikers climb up Prospect Mountain for panoramas of verdant peaks.

In the north, American history unfolds around every corner in charming towns like Ticonderoga and Sabbath Day Point, both battle sites during the American Revolution and the French and Indian War.

Photo: majicphotos/Shutterstock

But the best of Lake George isn’t found on land. Set sail with the Lake George Steamboat Company, established in 1917, for sweeping views of lakefront homes and woodlands. Hop on a kayak and glide along the lake’s perimeter while searching for falcons overhead. Rent a motor boat to cruise around the lake’s islands or idle near shore to fish for bass and trout.

After a day on these waters, you’ll understand why Lake George has been a go-to vacation destination for New Yorkers since the 19th century.

Where to stay

For lakefront views that won’t quit, book an island campsite through Reserve America. While some islands come with dozens of campsites, others — like the aptly named Hermit Island — only accommodate small groups. Rent an entire island with friends to feel like rulers of your own Adirondack kingdom.

If roughing it sounds like the opposite of relaxing, stay at this rustic waterfront Airbnb, where you can jump in the water as soon as you wake up.

Sag Harbor, New York

Photo: ROBERT SBARRA/Shutterstock

Located on the north coast of Long Island’s South Fork, Sag Harbor is geographically connected to the Hamptons but culturally in a league of its own. Rock legend Billy Joel lives in town and you might spot Andy Cohen gliding by on his way to Shelter Island, but at its heart, this former whaling community is less about keeping up with the Joneses and more about enjoying the simple life.

Mornings are spent with breakfast burritos from Provisions, and in the evenings, waiting for froyo at Yummylicious is considered a social outing. The recently-revamped Sag Harbor Cinema plays art-house films and silver screen classics, and the Bay Street Theater honors the summer stock tradition with its smattering of seasonal shows. Local families hang together at Havens Beach, where it’s always safe for a swim, and the community keeps their history alive at the Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum, set in a mansion from 1845.

While you might sense some Upper East Side-style posturing at Sen (a Japanese spot) and Il Capuccino (the best Italian in town), it’s easy to get away from Sag Harbor’s haughty riff-raff by jetting to the ocean. At the Elizabeth A. Morton National Wildlife Preserve, spend a day collecting seashells along the shore or hiking through 187 protected acres to catch glimpses of wild turkeys and chipmunks. In the wild, no one cares if you’re a millionaire.

Where to stay

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This home from 1790, complete with classic clapboard siding, marries Sag Harbor history with 21st-century luxury. Dip in the heated plunge pool and star gaze on the back patio. When it’s time to explore town, Main Street is a block away.

Newport, Rhode Island

Photo: Alexander Sviridov/Shutterstock

Long before the Hamptons became an iconic summer escape for New York’s wealthy set, there was one destination prized above the rest: Newport.

In the 1850s, business tycoons began building palatial mansions along the town’s rugged coast, inspired by extravagant European architecture. Today, the remaining fortresses (which their owners once referred to as “summer cottages”) appear like an American Versaille. Spend a weekend touring properties once owned by families like the Astors and Vanderbilts to gawk at the Gilded Age glamor.

Mansions aside, the reason Newport became a summer sanctuary remains. Stroll along the Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile seaside esplanade hugging the town’s prized homes, to be hypnotized by the rocky shoreline and salty air. Easton’s Beach, located steps from the Cliff Walk, is where families construct sand castles to quell their real estate envy. For something more serene, head to Sachuest Point — a 242-acre wildlife refuge where migratory birds like harlequin ducks stop over for their own weekend getaways.

At Bowen’s Wharf, it’s clear that money never left Newport. Yachts line the docks like floating palaces, and well-heeled visitors dine on calamari (a local delicacy) at upscale eateries like Clarke Cooke House. Get a feel for how the other half lives by taking sailing lessons at Sail Newport. Dress the part by wearing a nautical-striped sweater and your best boat shoes — you’ll blend right in.

Where to stay

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Splurge for a night at The Chanler — the only hotel on Newport’s Cliff Walk. The building, built in 1873 for New York Congressman John Winthrop Chanler, retains its original opulence with historical decor while boasting modern amenities suitable for contemporary travelers.

Cape May, New Jersey

Photo: ESB Professional/Shutterstock

The jewel of the Jersey Shore is chock full of activities fit for a fun family getaway. Take a trolley tour to see the largest helping of Victorian homes outside of San Francisco, learn about the town’s role in the Underground Railroad at the Harriet Tubman Museum, or spend an afternoon checking out the kitschy shops along the pedestrian-friendly Washington Street Mall. When it’s time to kick back, Cape May’s 2.5-mile-long eponymous beach is always within walking distance.

Cape May’s location on the southernmost tip of New Jersey’s peninsula isn’t only attractive to families. In spring and autumn, roughly one million migrating birds flock to the shores of Higbee Beach, where expert birders wait with binoculars to spy everything from black-bellied plovers and white-rumped sandpipers to over 20 species of warblers.

The birding ends when night descends, but the vacation vibes don’t stop. See what’s on tap at Cape May Brewing Co., try a flight at Cape May Winery, or treat yourself to a delectable ice cream sandwich from Peace Pie to cap off the day.

Where to stay

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Lean into the Victorian life at The Mason Cottage, a bed and breakfast inside a historic beauty built in 1871. Complimentary bicycles allow you to cruise around town with ease, and beach chairs and beach towels will make any ocean excursion a breeze.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Photo: Mihai_Andritoiu/Shutterstock

The nine-hour drive needed to reach Bar Harbor is well worth the mileage. Located on the western edge of Mt. Desert Island, this quaint coastal hub provides the kind of solitude you can’t find in NYC — which is why wealthy New Yorker John D. Rockefeller bought a house here in 1910.

Photo: Jon Bilous/Shutterstock

Acadia National Park is Bar Harbor’s raison d’être. Drive the 27-mile loop road to see the scenery or plan a few pit stops for active excursions. The Beehive Loop, a rung-and-ladder trail, climbs 520 feet above sea level, while a trek up Cadillac Mountain takes you to the park’s highest peak. Dip your toes in icy water at Sand Beach, a popular shore flanked by pink granite rocks, then listen for the boom as waves slam into the cave at Thunder Hole.

Between April and October, it’s possible to see finback, humpback, and minke whales off the coast; book a tour with Bar Harbor Whale Watching to see the gentle giants up close. If you’d rather stay on land, check out the Abbe Museum — dedicated to the indigenous Wabanaki people who lived here long before European colonizers arrived.

When it’s time to chow down, find yourself a lobster bake. This Maine tradition usually includes lobster, corn on the cob, boiled potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits. If you’re lucky, you’ll get some old-fashion New England clam chowder and a sweet slice of blueberry pie to wash it all down. Order a to-go meal from Acadia Lobster Bakes and enjoy it with friends — there will be plenty to go around.

Where to stay

Relax at this charming apartment mere steps from Main Street, where you’ll find the majority of Bar Harbor’s restaurants and shops. With three bedrooms, this is the perfect resting pad for a family retreat or weekend with friends.

Fire Island Pines, New York

Photo: Francois Roux/Shutterstock

Bid NYC’s honking horns goodbye on this car-free destination off the Long Island coast. The only way to get here is via ferry from Sayville, and once the boat docks at the Pines Marina, New York’s bustle seems like a bad dream.

Fire Island became a haven for the queer community in the 1940s, and today, spending a week on the sandbar is a rite of passage for NYC’s alphabet mafia. Travelers shack up in modernist pine homes connected by wood-plank footpaths and split their days flitting between pool parties and sunning on the sugary sands of Fire Island National Seashore. At night, crowds gather at the Pavilion and Sip-n-Twirl for cocktails, dancing, and drag shows (triple-threat Pixie Aventura is a knockout). Adventurous souls can cruise through maritime forests to Cherry Grove, a neighboring LGBTQ+ enclave.

If you’re looking for up-all-night escapades, visit for July 4th or the Pines Party, when circuit queens take over the scene. During the week, white-tailed deer outnumber people, and it’s best to curl up on the beach with a good book. High season is from Memorial Day to Labor Day, but consider visiting in early spring or autumn if you’re looking for lower prices and peaceful shores.

Where to stay

Photo: Airbnb

Decompress for an entire week in this colorful two-bedroom cottage equipped with a pool and hot tub. The home’s quirky decor outshines most lodgings in the Pines.

Skaneateles, New York

Photo: PQK/Shutterstock

Life slows down on the shores of Skaneateles (pronounced Skinny-atlas). This bucolic Finger Lakes town, hidden at the tip of its namesake lake, is only one hour northeast of Ithaca’s iconic gorges but world’s away from its college-kid nuttiness.

Head to an appointment at Mirbeau Inn & Spa, where guests enjoy treatments inside a Claude Monet-inspired garden, then drive to Anyela’s Vineyards to spend the afternoon sampling local rieslings. If you visit in August, don’t miss the Skaneateles Festival, a four-week concert series featuring world-renowned classical musicians; in nearby Auburn, REV Theater Company stages Broadway-style musicals throughout summer.

No trip is complete without exploring the lake. For a postcard-perfect glimpse of the 16-mile-long pool, stop by Thayer Park, where mallard ducks splash in the shadow of 19th-century St. James’ Episcopal Church. To cruise the perimeter, rent a kayak from Skaneateles Marina, or kick back on a guided tour with Mid-Lakes Navigation. Clift Park is the place to swim during summer’s dog days.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, stroll down nearby East Genesee and Jordan Street to sample local flavors from spots like Doug’s Fish Fry and Skaneateles Bakery (don’t leave without a donut).

Where to stay

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Spend all day sunning on the dock at this lakeside home three miles from Skaneateles. As the sun sets, there’s no better place to be than the property’s western-facing shoreline.

Assateague Island, Maryland

Photo: Scenic Corner/Shutterstock

Look out for wild ponies, Sika deer, island foxes, and elusive river otters. The boisterous boardwalk of Ocean City is only twenty minutes away, but Assateague Island is a coastal wilderness that feels far from the crowds.

Upon arrival, pitch a tent facing the Atlantic and jump in the ocean. Assateague Island stretches for 37 miles between Maryland and Virginia, but most beach bums stick to the Maryland side, where camping is allowed. Summer’s balmy weather heats the sea to over 70°F, making it ideal for long days of swimming and sunbathing.

Get your blood pumping by kayaking with Assateague Explorer’s guided expeditions or hike through the marshland in search of wild ponies (it’s okay to look, but don’t touch). Slick surfers cut through waves at Assateague State Park, and if you’re patient, you might spot whales showing off in the distance.

Assateague Island is devoid of shops and stores, so come prepared to rough it. That means firewood, water, food, and camping gear are necessary — as is bug repellent. But don’t worry – the insects are still less bothersome than the tourists at Ocean Beach.

Where to stay

Photo: JWCohen/Shutterstock

Stake your claim to Maryland’s windswept island by renting a campsite via the Maryland Department of National Resources. There are two spots to choose from: bayside or oceanside. For quieter nights, direct access to the sea, and a soft, sandy floor to sleep on, oceanside is best. Bring extra-long stakes to ensure your tent doesn’t blow away with the Atlantic breeze.

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11 Airbnbs in Bend, Oregon Perfect for Exploring the Town, Mountains, and Water

Encircled by mountains and enjoying a scenic spot on the Deschutes River, Bend is one of the prettiest cities in Oregon. Getting out on the water by kayak, paddleboard, or tube is top of the agenda while hiking and cycling trails grant you a closer look at the area’s unique volcanic heritage. When you’re not chasing adventure, Bend is all about easing the pace. Choose one of these top-rated Airbnb Bend Oregon rentals and you’ll leave feeling fresh.

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

Downtown Bend Airbnb rentalsDowntown Bend waterfront escape

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Located on Mirror Pond, this three-bedroom vacation property offers views of Deschutes River and Drake Park and is a five-minute walk from downtown. Paddle boards, tubes, and buoyancy aids are provided and you can launch directly from the private backyard. The open-plan concept provides natural light, heart-stopping views, and plenty of scope for socializing. Meanwhile, the upper level is divided into wings for added privacy.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $320 per night

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The Curly Maple Den

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Ultra hip and relaxing in equal measure, this Downtown Bend, Oregon, Airbnb condo for couples welcomes pets. The luxurious basement space is tastefully appointed with granite counters and top-of-the-line appliances. Step out the door and you’ve got the best restaurants and brewpubs in town right on your doorsteps. Amiable hosts are on hand to share local wisdom about where to hike, bike, and paddle.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $140 per night

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Traveling through the Pacific Northwest? Check out Matador’s accommodations guides to the region:The best Airbnb Portland rentals in the city’s coolest neighborhoods8 Seattle Airbnbs close to fresh seafood, Pike Place, and the Space Needle7 family-friendly Airbnbs in the Pacific NorthwestThe cutest tiny houses to rent in the Pacific NorthwestThis road trip will take you to the coolest Airbnbs in the Pacific Northwest

Lava Flo on Lava Road

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This pet-friendly Airbnb in Bend, Oregon, is sited right in the heart of downtown across the road from Menamins. The historic bungalow has undergone a major renovation without sacrificing its original charm. A generously stocked kitchen is primed for traveling chefs and foodies. Roomy interiors are complemented by a spacious patio as well as a backyard with a hot tub, grill, and fire pit.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $333 per night

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Airbnb Bend, Oregon, rentals in old townPrivate waterfront retreat with private dock

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This luxurious riverfront Airbnb Bend, Oregon, rental comes with a private dock for easy access to the water. Fire pits and a hot tub provide the perfect spot to drink up the surroundings while there is an abundance of outdoor dining areas. The host provides a supply of watercraft including paddle boards and kayaks as well as bicycles. Downtown is a pleasant 15-minute stroll away.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $750 per night

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Mirror Pond – iconic home on the river

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This beautiful vacation rental overlooks Mirror Pond and is a mere 15 minutes from downtown on foot. A covered porch enables you to soak up the views regardless of the weather. Meanwhile, the panoramic kitchen spices up any cooking or baking you wish to do. Rental includes access to the “bat cave” – an external cabin for reading or playing games. You’ll have access to a pair of kayaks and paddle boards during your stay as well as a ping pong table.

Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $1,570 per night

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Riverbend Bungalow

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This quaint riverside Bend Airbnb is the perfect marriage of retro and contemporary amenities and decor. The backyard meets the waterside and provides space to stretch your legs or wind down in the hot tub. Pets are welcome and the home is well-stocked with games, books, and a comprehensive kitchen. Food carts, 10 Barrel Brewing, and the restaurants of Galveston Avenue are all within walking distance.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $475 per night

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Airbnb Bend, Oregon, rentals in River WestHygge and harmony on hip Galveston

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This serene property is a short walk from Galveston Bridge and Downtown Bend. Deluxe interiors are accented with vintage chandeliers, cozy fireplaces, and opulent soaking baths. A secluded backyard is furnished with ample seating, a fire pit, and a hot tub. Chic and comfortable, this pet-friendly Bend Oregon Airbnb permits dogs to stay.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $235 per night

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West Side home with hot tub

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Peeking out from between two giant elms, this three-story home is situated in the peaceful River West neighborhood a short walk from downtown. Interior living spaces and bedrooms are warmly appointed with woody features while balconies are strategically placed to trap the sun. Set among a lush landscaped garden, the hot tub is available for a small fee.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $360 per night

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Adorable West Side cottage

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Cute as a button, this one-bedroom cottage features exposed brickworks, original hardwood flooring, and a wood burner. The bathroom is kitted out with a vintage clawfoot bathtub as well as a shower. Pets are welcome at this River West Bend, Oregon, Airbnb courtesy of a small surcharge. They’ll love the fenced backyard overlooked by the covered porch as much as you will!

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $280 per night

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Airbnb Bend rentals at Southern CrossingStunning riverfront rental

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This waterside Airbnb in Bend, Oregon, offers wonderful views of the Deschutes River. Encompassing three floors makes it easy to spread out and find your own patch of space. A designated yoga and meditation den is a perk for mindful travelers and the backyard contains a hot tub for even more R&R. The property opens up onto one of the best hiking trails in the area – as well as kayaking options.

Eight guests, two bedrooms
Price: $400 per night

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On the river – Old Mill District

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

The highlight of this immaculate new Bend, Oregon, vacation rental is the patio with vistas over the water and toward Mt. Bachelor. The presence of a fireplace adds a cozy element while the grill overlooking the river will inspire you to cook al fresco every night of the trip. That is – if you can peel yourself away from the chef-standard kitchen! Tubes and vests are available at the property.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $900 per night

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