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Published on April 09, 2025 12:25

Chattanooga Is Now the First ‘National Park City’ in North America. Here’s What That Means.

In a landmark achievement for urban sustainability, Chattanooga, Tennessee, has been named North America’s first National Park City by the UK-based National Park City Foundation. Once deemed “the most polluted city in America” in 1969, Chattanooga now joins London and Adelaide as one of only three cities globally to hold the National Park City designation — only adding to its reputation as a remote-friendly adventure hub.

The National Park City movement, inspired by the sweeping vision of national parks but independent from the National Park Service in the United States, aims to make urban areas greener, healthier, and more deeply connected to nature. It emphasizes long-term, grassroots efforts to improve air and water quality, access to outdoor spaces, and biodiversity within the urban fabric.

For Chattanooga, this recognition affirms the city’s ongoing reinvention. Industrial decline in the late 20th century prompted local stakeholders to reimagine the city’s relationship with its environment. What followed was a decades-long campaign to clean the air, revitalize the downtown riverfront, and transform brownfields into parks, trails, and public gathering spaces. Today, Chattanooga is known as an outdoor destination with more than 150 miles of trails, a growing urban farming movement, and active conservation programs.

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To achieve this status, Chattanooga submitted an application addressing 23 criteria, including climate adaptation, environmental education, equitable greenspace access, and sustainable agriculture. The application process underwent peer review by international experts and leaders from existing and candidate National Park Cities. Final approval followed after gathering more than 5,600 signatures from local citizens and organizations.

“We’ve used the National Park City movement to encourage folks to think about Chattanooga as a city in a park rather than a city with some parks,” Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly said in a press release. “The outdoors is our competitive advantage; it’s at the heart of our revitalization story as well as the core of our identity. We’ve always known how special Chattanooga’s connection to the outdoors is, and now it’ll be recognized around the world.”

The designation comes amid a growing global movement. London received the first National Park City title in 2019, followed by Adelaide in 2021. Several other cities — including Breda, Glasgow, and Southampton — are currently nominated or exploring the pathway to join.

To mark the milestone, Chattanooga will host a citywide celebration on April 19 during Earth Week. The event will feature more than 50 public activities, a keynote presentation by movement founder Dr. Daniel Raven Ellison, and performances by local artists.

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Published on April 09, 2025 08:25

April 8, 2025

Is Saudi Arabia Safe for Women? On Safety, Culture, and Breaking Stereotypes.

“Is Saudi Arabia safe? For women?” was the most common question my friends and family asked when I told them about my upcoming trip to Saudi Arabia.

Even though I would respond, “Of course I’ll be safe. It’s a very progressive country,” the question always gave me pause. I had never been to the Middle East, and this line of questioning had me mulling over my own preconceived notions about Muslim nations and the complex history the USA has had in the oil trade.

Some travelers may lump Saudi Arabia together with other Islam-fundamentalist nations, especially regarding women’s rights and strict religious doctrine and laws. But as I traveled through Riyadh and Jeddah, I had the chance to experience the beauty, hospitality, and complexity of this kingdom, leading me to think many of the common misconceptions and stereotypes about Saudi are based primarily on misinformation and media bias. I wondered if Saudi Arabia was safe for women, but was it a question I’d ask of every other country, too?

is saudi arabia safe for women - woman traveling alone

Saudi Arabia’s visitor economy is growing, and western tourists are a big part of that. Photo: The Road Provides/Shutterstock

As a white woman from the South, I felt welcomed and at home in Saudi, despite being in a place that should have felt entirely foreign to me. While traveling throughout the country, our guide, Khalid Took, shared the story of a Romanian traveler who became stranded in Saudi Arabia when the country closed its borders during the COVID-19 pandemic. She had planned to stay with a family in Jeddah for just seven days, but that turned into five months. The family took her in and promised they would get through the pandemic together. And they did.

Whether I was in fine dining restaurants, art galleries, or just people-watching on the street as pilgrims on their way to Mecca went by, I rarely felt any concern for my safety or personal comfort beyond what I’d feel in any other country. Saudi Arabia’s foundation is deeply interwoven with the Islamic faith, a key tenet of which is caring for strangers and showing hospitality and kindness. What struck me most about this was the profound sense of security. I knew that no matter what happened, like a pandemic, or even getting stranded, I would be taken care of.

“Nothing is impossible here”

is saudi arabia safe for women - Riyadh's Bujairi Terrace

Riyadh’s Bujairi Terrace at night. Photo: Skill Surface Graphics/Shutterstock

“You could have told me 20 years ago that there would be skyscrapers in the middle of the desert, and I would have laughed and said, ‘Impossible,’” explained Took, as we drove into the city center of Riyadh. “But now, truly, nothing is impossible here. It gives you a feeling of infinite possibility.”

That sense of possibility stayed with us as we explored the country. Being in this Middle Eastern kingdom felt almost mystical, like stepping into a fairy tale. It looked and felt dreamy, like stepping into Dune‘s spice planet of Arrakis or Star Wars’ Tatooine. Even in the middle of December, the warmth wrapped around me, the dry desert heat mixing with hazy sepia skies that melted into a sand-swept landscape.

Riyadh sat as a cutting-edge city within the desert, with dazzling lights twinkling in the dusk. We walked past stunning art displays and stayed in luxurious hotels with state-of-the-art everything, while men wore their traditional garb and headscarves, and women wore niqab or hijab coverings. Not once did anyone give us American women a second glance.

As Saudi Arabia only recently opened to Western tourism (in 2019), not many people have traveled there. However, with Instagram-worthy shots of AlUla and news of the ever-expanding tourism market, more travelers are adding Saudi Arabia to their list of places to visit. In 2019, 17.5 million international tourists visited, and that number increased to 30 million by 2024.

A tourist at Diriyah, near Riyadh. Photo: Benny Marty/Shutterstock

Recreational tourism is still relatively new to the country, giving Saudi a chance to see how other countries have built their internal tourism infrastructures, then build it better while still staying true to its convictions. Visitors can stay in luxurious overwater bungalows and cruise ships on the Red Sea, all without compromising on the country’s alcohol-free policy, or glamp in incredible desert tent setups designed with sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. Even for locals, the infrastructure is impressive: everything from healthcare to tax records can be accessed through a single government app on your phone.

And while the Saudi Kingdom continues to expand its tourism sector, with new trains, hotels, and easier ways for visitors to explore, the country’s history adds to its unique character. For hundreds of years, Arabian tribes lived in regions rarely occupied by outside conquerors due to their harsh desert terrain, largely remaining free from external influence. Although it experienced a period of Ottoman control, the Arabian Peninsula was never occupied by major powers like England, France, or even the Roman Empire, which failed to conquer the region. But now, outsiders coming to visit and appreciate all that Saudi Arabia has to offer is being seen as a welcome addition, allowing the country to to still holds its own sense of identity and uniqueness while embracing cultural change.

Is Saudi Arabia safe for women? (The elephant in the ~~desert~~ room.)

visitors at elephant rock alula saudi - is saudi arabia safe for women

Photo: Lubo Ivanko/Shutterstock

Before my trip, the second most frequent question I received was “Do you have to wear a head covering?” This makes sense: as part of the human brain’s tendency to make quick generalizations to survive, our first responses tend to be based on stereotypes and basic judgments. Our minds connect the dots to make assumptions, unless we know something else to be a complete fact. So it’s natural that people would have the same basic assumptions about travel through the country.

The reality is that it’s a complex topic. There are many preconceived notions about Islam, women’s rights, and how they relate to Saudi Arabia and its Middle Eastern neighbors. I was in Saudi Arabia when Afghanistan passed a law restricting women from speaking to one another in public, and Iraq lowered the age of consent to nine years old. While these countries are distinctly Muslim, it’s clear they are vastly different.

Balancing my own assumptions while witnessing the slow erosion of women’s rights under the Taliban, while also traveling in a city that felt safer than my own, was jarring. Coming back and writing about my experience while watching a continued stream of executive orders and state governments strip away women’s protections in the United States is not lost on me, either.

Hospitality for travelers is a huge part of the historic and current Saudi culture. Photo: H1N1/Shutterstock

The truth is, there have been crimes against women in Saudi Arabia, and institutionalized domestic violence stemming from a sense of ownership and the male guardianship system. Though many laws have changed to grant women more rights since the much-beloved current crown prince took power in 2017, the fact remains that past experiences — sometimes true, sometimes sensationalized, and sometimes false — have shaped perceptions of Saudi Arabia. Different interpretations of Muslim law, as with many religions on this planet, have led to sects and denominations that vary significantly.

Reminding myself that my own country has had almost as many mass shootings as days this year, I challenged myself to look at safety through an unbiased lens. And truthfully, I felt safer than I have while traveling within the US. Saudi Arabia has a very low crime rate, attributable to the outlawing of alcohol and drugs, a ban on guns, advanced city security, and a deeply ingrained cultural belief in caring for others, even strangers. All of these contributed to my sense of safety. As an uncovered woman traveling through Saudi Arabia, I noticed that men lowered their gaze as I walked by — a reflection of their belief system centered on respect.

While I’m well aware these changes are relatively new, and caution should always be exercised when traveling (especially given Saudi’s proximity to ongoing international conflicts), I felt welcome and safe. It seemed clear to me that Saudi Arabia is continually working to enhance safety and security to accommodate its expanding tourism sector.

Change is happening at lighnning speed

Saudi Arabia is planning a purpose-built sustainable city, called NEOM. Photo: NEOM

After watching a covered woman slide bites of food under her veil in a luxurious restaurant, I asked a local Saudi woman, “Is it required to wear the niqabs?”She said no, explaining it’s up to each person’s religious beliefs and personal preferences. “Some women,” she added, “feel safer when covered.”

With the regency change in 2017, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s reign has ushered in new laws that allow women to work, to drive a car, to travel independently without a male chaperone, and to have other freedoms unavailable to women previously. These changes mark increased reforms toward gender equality. Yes, there is still a long way to go. Cultural mindset shifts and law reforms take time, but there are proposed amendments to continue to expand women’s rights and ensure their safety.

Sixty percent of the country’s population is under age 30, and younger generations are generally more open to change. In Saudi, they’ve opted to wear less traditional attire and voted for greater independence while still maintaining their religious integrity. Their progressiveness and open-mindedness is bringing more arts and entertainment to the country. Flying into Riyadh, my aisle neighbor told me how bummed he was that the SZA concert in Bahrain was unexpectedly canceled. Making our way through casual conversational topics such as religion and government, he shared that although his grandfather has two wives, he believes men should have only one. Personally, I would agree. But it’s a fascinating showcase of the dichotomy between traditional and modern beliefs in the populace.

Saudi Arabia is an excellent introduction to the Middle East

is saudi arabia safe for women - modern tourists site near riyadh

Photo: Ayman Zaid/Shutterstock

While driving around during Riyadh Season — a spectacle of lights, immersive displays, and state-of-the-art showcases — our guide explained, “In 10 or 20 years, we will have everything you need, right here.” With discussions underway to build an eco-friendly city and expand the country’s high-speed rail network, Saudi Arabia seems to be announcing new projects every month, steadily working toward building everything within its own borders.

Saudi Arabia’s recent win to host the 2034 World Cup highlights just how much the country is growing in popularity among travelers, and plans are underway to break ground on what is expected to be the world’s largest Six Flags theme park as part of the massive Qiddiya Entertainment City. Saudi Arabia is also ushering in a green era with ambitious sustainability projects, including the mirrored NEOM city.

The country is continually expanding. And with its continued innovation in eco-friendly desert getaways and Red Sea overwater bungalows, it’s become an enticing introduction to the Middle East. After discussing some of the upcoming projects underway in the country, I asked Khalid Took, our guide, “Is there anywhere you dream of traveling to?” He responded, “Why would I leave? We have everything here.”

What to expect culturally when visiting

is saudi arabia safe for women - traditional and visitor dress

While many citizens still opt for traditional dress, visitors are not required to do the same. Photo: Kelsey Wilking

English was spoken everywhere I went. Learning a few words of Arabic to use while traveling can come in handy, though. My recommendations when traveling: always learn at least three words, not including “hello” (as-salamu alaykum) and “goodbye” (salam, for short). “I’m sorry” (ana asef), “Thank you” (shukran), and “perfect” (mumtaz) are good ones to know.

Many women dress in black niqabs, fully covered except for their eyes, while others opt for a hijab to cover their hair, often paired with an abaya — a long robe that modestly covers everything and is worn over regular clothing. Local Saudis are generally very forgiving when it comes to tourist attire. However, loose and flowy pants and tops for women will protect your skin from the sun while also keeping you cool and dry. There is no requirement to wear a head covering, except when visiting a mosque. For reasons of respect, leave short shorts and tank tops at home.

Men’s clothing is also very traditional. It’s usually a long, white linen shirt that extends from the collarbone to the shins, along with a distinct headscarf. The red-and-white checkered headpiece, worn historically and still today, helps protect against the intense desert sun. The black rope on top, known as the agal, was historically used to prevent camels from wandering off at night in the desert. Nomads would travel with the rope around their arms, tie it to the camel’s halter, and place it back on their heads for safekeeping.

Photo: Fredy Thuerig/Shutterstock

For male travelers, the rules are mostly the same. Wear loose-fitting clothes with modest coverage over elbows and knees. Linen pants and a linen button-up would work.

It’s important to be aware of the call to prayer. Prayer time is sacred, and there are five prayer times per day. In many public spaces, designated areas allow men to pause, kneel, and pray while the prayer is recited over speakers. Prayer spaces are separate for men and women. Be mindful when you hear the call to prayer and show respect to those around you.

While most establishments take credit cards, make sure to exchange some money into the Saudi riyal for the souks and street markets.

Applying for a Saudi Arabia electronic visa is a very fast process. I received mine within five minutes. The cost is approximately SAR 395 (around $105 USD). In the future, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) plans to introduce a visa that would allow travel across multiple countries in the Middle East under one visa: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Every country I’ve visited has unique places to see, lovely people, interesting history and art, and beautiful landscapes in their own right. But traveling to Saudi added a new hue to my palette of sand-swept dunes and cerulean blue waters. Saudi Arabia is continually expanding, but its essence remains unchanged. At its heart, it’s a place that tends to its strangers, giving you a feeling of endless possibilities, just like the country itself.

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Published on April 08, 2025 16:13

1.7 Million Phones, Ozempic, and Live Lobsters: The 50 Wildest Things People Left in Ubers in 2024

It can feel like our technology is permanently attached to us as soon as we leave our home. Which makes sense: It’s certainly a lot harder to get around without the maps, ride-hailing apps, and payment systems these devices facilitate (not to mention the pure entertainment aspect, regardless of how easy it is to pine for the days when mindless distraction wasn’t just a swipe away).

Yet for all of that, these devices are also the ones that people leave behind in their Ubers the most. Uber’s latest “Lost and Found Index” is a look into the most commonly forgotten items that people file a report for, and things often considered the most essential also happen to be the most left behind. At the top of the list, Apple was the most lost brand in Uber rides in 2024 — particularly iPhones and Airpods. As a whole, 1.7 million iPhones and Androids were left behind on rides, potentially making tipping for that ride and messaging your driver for some help a little more difficult.

The 10 most commonly forgotten items in Ubers:

PhoneWalletKeysLuggageHeadphonesGlassesClothingPassportVapeWater Bottle

The top 10 most forgetful cities include New York, Miami, and Chicago — no surprise given the number of riders. Forgetfulness peaked on October 26, the Saturday of Halloweekend, with the 11 PM to midnight window earning the dubious honor of the most item losses.

On a more granular level, the Index finds that riders are most likely to forget gloves on Mondays, jackets on Tuesdays, umbrellas on Thursdays and Fridays, and debit cards on Sundays. People reporting lost cowboy hats, naturally, peaks on Saturdays.

Legal papers like court summons and divorce papers also made the list, Disney merch was the most left behind theme park souvenirs, and Eagles fans left behind more gear than any other sports team. Reports of lost pickleball gear, yoga mats, and pilates socks were on the rise in 2024, too. Sometimes you can win on the field but lose everywhere else. Red items would seemingly be easy to keep track of, yet that was the most lost color. And like the prior year, someone managed to leave behind their pet turtle.

Food was also commonly reported as lost. In a year when eggs were a prized commodity and increasingly expensive and limited, one person left 108 eggs in their Uber. Though that was still a less expensive mental slip than the person who left a bottle of Don Julio 1942 or the person who said they forgot their “filet mignon for my dog.”

The 50 most unique items lost in Ubers in 2024

Mannequin head with human hairViking drinking hornGhostbusters ghost trapChainsawBreast milkFine chinaMy turtleUrinalClub promoter sign reading “Annie’s married” – it belongs to the clubSticky boob braAviation headsetShrek earsBermuda shortsA pink fan that has two hearts and the word “bimbo”DNA testing kitPickleball paddles and ball2 mattresses15 hookahsAmethyst crystalAquariumWitches broomUnicycle100 DVDsBouquet of 100 red rosesSea mossTraffic coneA very large portrait of myself in a brown boxYankees bobble head figurePlungerA photograph of me and my friend at BenihanaLittle cactusPeacock featherLady Liberty crownHoverboard and a mini fridgeHarry potter wandSewing machineOrthopedic foot insolesBoiled eggs and a candleDivorce papersOzempicRemy the rat dollBlue laminated paper with yellow smiley faceCornish hensA placard that says “it’s a Philly thing”Fake blood10 live lobstersTaxidermied rabbitChicken sculptureHannah Montana merchandiseDJ mixing board

Worried that one of your possessions will make 2025’s list? Thankfully it’s easy to get in touch with your driver, even if that lost possession was the phone you booked the Uber on: Go to the Activity section on the app, select the trip, hit “find lost item” in the help section, and detail what you lost for your driver. Without a phone, head to help.uber.com.

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Published on April 08, 2025 05:00

11 Airbnb Estes Park Area Rentals for a Beautiful Rocky Mountain National Park Stay

Colorado is the perfect place to sneak away for a while. Rocky Mountain National Park is the place to dig into nature — hiking, scenic drives, camping, fishing, and even backcountry skiing are available in abundance here. Booking an Airbnb near Rocky Mountain National Park puts you close to the action, which then optimizes the amount of time you can spend exploring rather than commuting. Here are the top Airbnb Estes Park and Airbnb Rocky Mountain National Park rentals.

Airbnb Estes Park rentals Airbnb Grand Lake rentals Airbnb Colorado Winter Park rentals Airbnb Granby rentalsTaking a national park road trip? Check out Matador’s national parks accommodations guides:These Stunning Cabins Are the Ultimate Zion National Park Basecamp The best hotels in Utah for a national parks road trip The best 14 Airbnbs near Yosemite National Park 11 magical Airbnbs near Redwoods and Sequoia National Parks The 9 Best Great Smoky Mountains National Park Hotels 10 Airbnb Estes Park rentals near Rocky Mountain National Park Take a Fun Escape Into Nature at These Airbnbs Near Glacier National Park The Perfect Desert Getaway Awaits at These Airbnbs Near Death Valley National Park See jawdropping views from these Airbnbs near Grand Teton National Park Access Trails and Hot Springs From These Airbnbs Near Olympic National Park Get the best Shenandoah National Park views from these Airbnbs

We hope you love the Airbnb Estes Park 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.

The best Colorado Airbnb rentals in the Estes Park Area

Hip small and bright bungalow with an instrument wall

Photo: Airbnb

This quiet little bungalow sits on a hillside just a few minutes away from downtown Estes Park. The small home features a full kitchen, bedroom, and living room. If musicians are tagging along on the trip, then this is one to bookmark as the home has a piano, guitar, and many other instruments that guests can play and let their creativity run wild. The house has beautiful views of Old Man Mountain and Prospect Mountain right off the deck, and it’s just a five-minute drive to the Rocky Mountain National Park and a walk to local shops, restaurants, breweries, and more.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $138 per night

Historical cabin from the 1800s with jacuzzi and views of Lumpy Ridge

Photo: Airbnb

Built in the late 1800s, this historic cabin has all the amenities you need for your Colorado getaway. The downtown Airbnb in Estes Park is near the Stanley Hotel and an eight-minute drive to Rocky Mountain National Park. There is a kitchen stocked with appliances and complimentary essentials, a living room with a fireplace, a deck that provides beautiful mountain views, and a jacuzzi overlooking Lumpy Ridge, perfect for a post-ski relaxation session.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $239 per night

Comfy Rocky Mountain home within walking distance to trails

Photo: Airbnb

A cozy, secluded sanctuary awaits you on your next Colorado getaway. This three-bedroom home (all bedrooms are ensuite) has an open floor concept perfect for entertaining with the kitchen, living room, and dining room all showcasing stunning views of the mountains. The house is a short five minute drive from downtown Estes Park, ten minutes from Rocky Mountain National Park, and within walking distance to many trails and Mary’s Lake to enjoy a lazy day of fishing.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $241 per night

The best Colorado Airbnb rentals in the Grand Lake Area

Picturesque property with Lake Granbury views

Photo: Airbnb

This 3,555-square-foot home on a 2.5-acre property is calling out to you for your next getaway. The three-bedroom, two-bathroom cabin has all the amenities needed for a relaxing vacation. With Lake Granby views, al fresco dining, a fire pit to gather around, this home is perfect for groups and other family gatherings. You can take the load off in the game room, or hit the nearby hiking trails or slopes at Granby Ranch.

Ten guests, three bedrooms
Price: $285 per night

Two-story cabin on the shore of Grand Lake

Photo: Airbnb

Tucked away on the quieter south shore of Grand Lake, this remote cabin is the kind of place you go when you need to hit reset. The two-story cottage sits right on the water and is simple but well-considered, with new furniture, upgraded appliances, and spa-like bathrooms that feel especially indulgent after a long day outside. From late May through mid-October, the private dock and lakeside pergola are open for early-morning paddles and sunset hangs. A canoe, two kayaks, and a paddleboard are included, so you can float through the day or fish from your front yard. Behind the house, Shadow Mountain — part of Rocky Mountain National Park — rises in the distance, offering trails to explore and backcountry to get lost in. The town of Grand Lake is just a mile down the road if you need provisions — or just a coffee and a walk.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $365 per night

Remote A-frame cabin with spacious backyard for families

Photo: Airbnb

Located just a mile away from the town of Grand Lake and other recreational hot spots is this cozy a-frame cabin. It’s is perfect for families, and it features a living room with a fireplace and wooden-clad walls, and beamed ceilings. The two large front and back decks have beautiful mountain views as well as the backyard space is a great place for the kids to get outside and play around.

Twelve guests, four bedrooms
Price: $316 per night

The best Colorado Airbnb rentals in the Winter Park Area

Stunning luxury ski-in/ski-out house in Winter Park

Photo: Airbnb

If you’re craving more room to roam and a splash of luxury, this jaw-dropping alpine retreat in Winter Park delivers. In the exclusive Bridger’s Cache community, this top ten percent Airbnb stunner sleeps up to 12 and wraps you in sleek Scandinavian style from the moment you step inside. With four plush bedrooms and four-and-a-half spa-worthy bathrooms, it’s designed for those who want mountain adventure without sacrificing comfort. You can glide straight off the slopes and into the home, thanks to the ski-in/ski-out access. Then, as twilight settles over the forest canopy, slide open the glass doors and step onto your private spa deck with a crackling fire pit and an in-ground hot tub that practically begs for stargazing and après-ski hangs.

12 guests, four bedrooms
Price: $1,265 per night

Luxury resort villa with free activities and gear rentals

Photo: Airbnb

This custom-built three-bedroom home is managed by a professional host and includes daily access to free activities and equipment rentals, such as snowmobiling in winter and whitewater rafting in summer. Located on a hill overlooking Winter Park Resort, it’s steps from the on-call resort shuttle stop. The home offers unobstructed views of both Winter Park and Mary Jane from the kitchen, dining room, living area, and decks.

10 guests, three bedrooms
Price: $585 per night

The best Colorado Airbnb rentals in the Granby Area

Modern mountain retreat with EV chargers

Photo: Airbnb

As an EV driver, I love nothing more than an Airbnb with a built-in charging station—and this one has two in the garage. It’s already a win in my book, but there’s more. The modern ski-in/ski-out mountain home is located just below the ski trail “Home Again” in Granby Ranch. The dreamy master bedroom has floor-to-ceiling windows, and the property is close to Ranch Hall, where — for a small admission fee — you can access facilities such as ping pong tables, a gym, a pool, and a hot tub.

Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $425 per night

Mountain view retreat near Granby Ranch Resort

Photo: Airbnb

Just a short walk from Granby Ranch Resort, this newly built condominium offers a comfortable base for both outdoor and winter activities. It features a fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances, a living room, and a private balcony with mountain views and a picnic table. Beyond the ski slopes, the area also offers nearby hiking and biking trails, scenic routes through Rocky Mountain National Park, and boating opportunities on Lake Granby.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $96 per night

Riverfront cabin with family and kid-friendly amenities

Photo: Airbnb

Located along the Fraser River, this 1,100-square-foot cabin offers a peaceful setting with enough space for family and friends. It also includes kid-friendly amenities to help keep younger guests occupied and comfortable. Recognized as a top-rated Airbnb based on guest reviews, the cabin also provides views of the Rocky Mountains and easy access to year-round activities, including Hot Sulphur Springs, Colorado Adventure Park, and the Coca-Cola Tubing Hill.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $224 per night

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Published on April 08, 2025 01:00

April 7, 2025

From a Snake Farm to Luxury Resorts: Every Filming Location in ‘The White Lotus’

“The coconut milk is off,” and White Lotus season three has come to an end. Whether you’re relieved the ride is over or at a loss as to how you’ll combat the Sunday blues next week, one thing’s for sure: the series yet again delivered a twisted storyline in a gorgeous setting.

The Thai islands of Koh Samui and Phuket made for a backdrop as compelling as the character dramas, and Bangkok introduced glamour and the seeder side of tourism culture. If you’re feeling inspired to plan you’re own White Lotus experience — sans murder and incest — you won’t be alone. A representative from Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui (where the majority of the filming took place) shares over email that Thailand’s Tourism Authority is estimating a 20 percent rise in tourism due to the show.

Matador editor Suzie Dundas did a deep dive into what it would cost to stay at the Four Seaons Koh Samui like a White Lotus guest and reports the Ratliff family’s three-bedroom villa will set you back around six grand a night with wellness treatments costing up to $300 for a 90-minute de-stress session. If your bum just clenched reading those prices, check out my run down of how to do an affordable wellness vacation at other reputable health-focused resorts on the Thai islands.

Photo: Four Seasons

Photo: Rosewood Hotels

As with the prior two seasons, producers maintained their partnership with the Four Seasons brand, filming primarily at the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui for season three. However, they also showcased four additional luxury resorts to enhance the ambiance. The Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas‘ Wellness Sanctuary Spa provided the setting for spa manager Belinda’s (Natasha Rothwell) scenes, while the Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort served as the hotel lobby, resort entrance, and jewelry store. The Singing Bird Lounge, located at the Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort, hosted the bar scenes, and the Rosewood Phuket‘s Ta Khai restaurant became the backdrop for dinner sequences.

Outside the resorts the filming locations spanned the Thai island’s beaches, coastal clubs, and towns, and key venues in Bangkok. Here’s a run down of some of the locals used — for those yet to watch, spoiler alert, I’ll also share plot lines.

We hope you love The White Lotus resorts 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.

Check out Matador’s White Lotus-themed accommodations guides: 6 Affordable Wellness Retreats in Thailand for a ‘White Lotus’ Experience This Estate in ‘White Lotus’ Season 3 Is Available on Airbnb Book the Thai Beach Resort Where ‘The White Lotus’ Was Filmed Before It Sells Out Channel Your White Lotus Fantasy at These Thailand Airbnbs Stay in the Sicilian Hotel Where Season 2 of ‘White Lotus’ Was Filmed 6 Thailand Hotels that could be used for ‘The White Lotus’ Season 3

Episodes one and two — Awkward arrivals and opulent suites

Photo: Courtesy of HBO

The first two episodes were filmed between the resorts with key scenes such as Zion (Nicholas Duvernay) discovering the floating body in the lake being shot at Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas and the wealthy Southern Ratliff family — Timothy (Jason Isaacs), Victoria (Parker Posey), and their children Saxon (Patrick Schwarzenegger), Piper (Sarah Catherine Hook), and Lochlan (Sam Nivola) — and the rest of the guests checking into their opulent suites at the Four Seaons.

Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park, Thailand in a summer day White Lotus filming locations thailand

Photo: Sergii Figurnyi/Shutterstock

Guest arrivals by boat were captured against the scenic backdrops of Ko Lawa Yai near Phang Nga Bay in Phuket, Ya Nui Beach in Phuket, and Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park in Koh Samui. The chaotic shopping trip with Chelsea (Aimee Lou Wood) and Chloe (Charlotte Le Bon) that ends in a violent robbery where Gaitok (Tayme Thapthimthong) is injured, and all security station scenes used the grounds of the Anantara Bophut.

Episodes three — Getting stoned at a snake farm

Photo: Fabio Lovino/HBO

Episode three opens with Victoria waking from a disconcerting dream of a pre-tsunami beach. The vision she reluctantly recounts during the fraught family breakfast was filmed at Cape Pawna Hotel in Phuket. The episode’s chaotic energy crescendos when Rick (Walton Goggins) gets stoned and releases a collection of snakes during a live snake show. Shows like this are a legitimate tourist attraction in Thailand. According to HBO, it was filmed at the Snake Farm, which looks like it’s in Taling Ngam in the south of the island.

Episodes four — Gary’s yacht and water guns

Phuket Yachts Haven Marina in Phuket ,Thailand White Lotus filming locations thailand

Photo: SIHASAKPRACHUM/Shutterstock

What happens on a yacht stays locked away for a lifetime unless there’s a therapist on retainer. Am I right? Leaving Phuket Yacht Haven Marina and sailing Phang Na Bay, the Ratliff family embarks on a yacht excursion, with Greg (Jon Gries) and Chloe joining Rick and Chelsea. You can actually rent the yacht used in the filming, but you’ll need lottery money as it costs just over $160,000 per week.

Photo: Fabio Lovino/HBO

Back on land, “friends” Jaclyn (Michelle Monaghan), Kate (Leslie Bibb), Laurie (Carrie Coon) go exploring and find themselves swept up in the raucous local celebration of Songkran filmed at Koh Samui Town Center and the Fisherman’s Village. As night falls, they regroup with Valentin (Arnas Fedaravicius) and his Russian buddies at an exclusive beach club filmed at Café Del Mar in Phuket.

Gary’s luxury villa is also features in this episode. According to HBO, the shooting was split between two properties: Samujana Villa 12 in Koh Samui and Villa Amaravida in Phuket.

Episodes five — The full moon party

White Lotus filming locations thailand Full moon party

Photo: Anton Suslo/Shutterstock

The full moon party scenes were filmed between Choeng Mon Beach in Koh Samui and Haad Rin Beach in Koh Phagnan, and I don’t think we need to discuss the drug-fuelled incest back on the super yacht.

Photo: Courtesy of HBO

On the mainland in Bangkok, Rick reconnects with his old friend Frank (Sam Rockwell) in one of the finest hotels in the world, the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, where the five-star’s lobby and the moody Bamboo Bar were used during Rick’s telling of his wild and increasingly bizarre time in Thailand.

Episodes six — Bangkok and the monastery

Photo: Courtesy of HBO

Episode six takes us to Bangkok’s refined culinary and residential spaces, with Rick meeting with Sritala (Patravadi Mejudhon) at the restaurant Royal Osha and Sritala’s home set at Siri Sala Private Thai Villa. In this episode, we also get a better look at the monastery, with Piper taking her family on a tour to convince them it’s not a cult. From what I can gather, most of the interior filming was at Wat Phu Khao Thong in Koh Samui.

Episodes seven — Boxing and sex clubs

Photo: Thanachet Maviang/Shutterstock

The penultimate chapter of this season was a chaotic (and dark) ride with the addition of a couple new core filming locations: The Muay Thai boxing stadium at Bangla Boxing in Phuket where Gaitok goes on a date with Mook (Lalisa Manobal) and finally links Valentin’s entourage with the robbery and the sex club, Sing Sing Theater in Bangkok, where Rick and Frank paint the town red.

Episodes eight — Farewells

Photo: Fabio Lovino/HBO

In the climactic final episode, simmering tensions erupt into chaos against the backdrop of the island’s luxurious resorts and surrounding scenic locations like Phang Nga Bay. The episode concludes multiple narratives: Timothy Ratliff’s desperate attempt to shield his family from financial ruin culminates in a near-poisoning murder–suicide, Rick’s confrontation and shooting of Jim Hollinger (Scott Glenn) — who is his dad (anyone else fall off the couch?) — and the tragic death of Chelsea and subsequent shooting of Rick by Gaitok. The serene beauty of Thailand’s islands and coast closes out the final moments as the surviving guests leave The White Lotus resort to build (and re-build) their lives.

More like this Luxe Travel The Costs to Vacation Like a 'White Lotus' Guest at the Real-Life Resort in Thailand

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Published on April 07, 2025 22:15

Where Will ‘The White Lotus’ Season 4 Take Place? Our Editors Have Predictions.

Season 3 of The White Lotus just finished, and needless to say, it was a doozy. No major spoilers below, but as many people expected, it went darker and more dramatic than seasons past.

Show creator Mike White already confirmed there will be a fourth season, but what hasn’t been confirmed is where the next season will be set. There’s no official “White Lotus” hotel chain int he real world, though the first three seasons were set at Four Seasons properties. It’s been a tourism boom for the Four Seasons and the destinations each season was set — Hawai’i, Sicily, and Thailand — and it’s likely that Season 4 will continue that relationship (though it’s not guaranteed).

In the spirit of pure speculation backed by travel professional insight, four Matador editors put their heads together to guess where Season 4 will take place based on travel trends and the show’s cultural touch points. Half of the group has finished watching the latest season, while the other half has yet to start (though it’s safe to say that we’re all deeply familiar with all that goes on in the world of The White Lotus, spoilers be damned). For what it’s worth, we did correctly predict the location for season 3, after season 2 finished. In fact, it was our top pick.

Our panel included:

Suzie Dundas, commissioning editorNickolaus Hines, managing editor (has not watched Season 3)Katie Gavin, lifestyle editorTim Wenger, transactional content editor (has not watched Season 3)

More White Lotus Season 3 coverage:The Costs to Vacation Like a ‘White Lotus’ Guest at the Real-Life Resort in Thailand You Can Actually Stay at These 5 Hotels Featured in ‘The White Lotus’ Season 3 6 Affordable Wellness Retreats in Thailand for a ‘White Lotus’ Experience You Can Rent the Real Luxury Yacht From ‘The White Lotus’ Season 3 This Estate in White Lotus Season 3 Is Available on Airbnb Book the Thai Beach Resort Where The White Lotus Was Filmed Before It Sells Out

This conversation has been edited for length and clarity. As a Slack conversation, proper punctuation and grammar varies.

Suzie: So, let’s dive in. Season 3 ended on a heavy note. Obviously, the show needs to keep one-upping itself every season.

Nick: That’s interesting about one upping itself. It has felt like the plots are getting thicker and thicker, and I have to wonder how much further they can take it — and, more specifically, what location allows for that.

Suzie: Yep, and at some point, the “eat the rich” mentality is going to wear thin, even in a climate where people are pretty fed up with income inequality. But they did say for sure that season 4 is coming, so they’re going to ride the gravy train for at least one more season.

Let’s start with everyone’s initial thoughts for season 4 if they stay with the Four Seasons brand. My first reaction was “somewhere cold in Europe” like Iceland, but since there’s no Four Seasons there, I then thought maybe Four Seasons Explorer Palau (a luxury yacht) or maybe one of the Four Seasons in Istanbul. Though Four Season Serengeti in Tanzania feels like it could provide tons of drama…

white lotus season 4 location - istanbul hotel

Istanbul is home to two stunning Four Seasons resorts. Photo: Four Seasons Istanbul at the Bosphorus/Paul Thuysbaert

Nick: Noting that the show has teased they’re doing season 4 scouting primarily in Europe, and cast members have mentioned Mike White hates the cold. So as much as a ski-themed season sounds great, that’s probably out of the question.

Katie: France would be a good shout for that. And city could also be fun. They dipped into Bangkok this season, and I loved that contrast between the islands and the chaos of the city. The Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris could work. The hotel staff could take more of a central role in this because, let’s be honest, in Paris, the waitstaff are more judgmental than your therapist. Filming might be tricky, though. It might need to be shot in early spring or fall. Imagine shooting general street scenes or at landmarks like the Louvre in the summer.

Nick: Yeah, I think they’ll stick with Four Seasons. Definitely no shortage of options in Europe (or around the world, really).

Katie: My vote is Africa. You’d have the wildness of the animals and the unchecked privilege of the clientele. They can go on game drives and complain that the Champagne isn’t chilled enough. The Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti is practically begging to be used. Imagine the drone shots of guests sipping cocktails while watching elephants in the evening.

Suzie: They need a hotel where the location itself can almost be a character right? Hard to find something more dramatic than prides of lions.

white lotus season 4 location - four seasons serengeti

The Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti in Tanzania. Photo: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti/Richard Waite

Nick: I wouldn’t hate a season around the midnight sun. But they’d have to go away from the brand for that, like to The Retreat at Blue Lagoon in Iceland. To me, Thailand felt like an obvious choice…jungle vibes and mystery and playing off of things that a Western audience would find “exotic” seems very “White Lotus.”

Katie: To me, it felt too aesthetically close to Hawai’i, and that’s why I don’t think they’d do somewhere like Bali. But for overwater bungalows, white sand, my shout is Four Seasons Bora Bora.

Suzie: This is why I thought the Four Seasons luxury yacht liveaboard in Palau may be an interesting choice, but perhaps it’s too similar to past seasons that have had a lot of boat scenes.

Tim: So my prediction stems back to season 1, when it was revealed that the character that Jennifer Coolidge was dating lived in Grand Junction, and then in Season 2, she offered to move to Aspen to be close to him. I know it looks like Europe is leading the charge, but I predict Aspen to be controversial.

Katie: Ooh, I like that.

Aspen, Colorado, doesn’t hurt for luxury hotels, such as the ski-in, ski-out St. Regis Aspen Resort, shown here. Photo: St. Regis Aspen Resort

Suzie: Interesting theory… I wonder if they’d be open to filming in the US. It’s definitely a culture people understand — rich Aspen millionaires. The Four Seasons also has ski resort hotels in Whistler, BC, and Megève, France.

Tim: People in Aspen are just as ridiculous as people in all these other ritzy places, if not more so.

Katie: I don’t know if they will bring any characters back from this season. Couldn’t guess who…Belinda again, maybe?

Suzie: Maybe they’ll bring back a Ratliff, newly broke, as an employee.

Nick: That would be a fun plot twist.

Katie: If they brought Belinda back, I’d want it to be Australia, cause she hates snakes and bugs. In terms of the scenery, it would be awesome. Pelorus Private Island on the Great Barrier Reef would be epic. You can take a helicopter to get there. It’s ticking all the boxes: infinity pools overlooking dramatic cliffs, private villas with outdoor showers…The characters could do a bush workshop where they learn survival skills. Maybe they could use a funnel-web spider in the murder plot.

white lotus season 4 location - natasha rothwell

Belinda, played by Natasha Rothwell, is one of the few recurring characters on the show. Photo: The White Lotus/ Fabio Lovino/HBO

Suzie: Katie, yes! I just got back from Lizard Island in Australia….same thing. You literally cannot get there unless you’re on a private plane. So “White Lotus.”

Nick: As much as Europe seems to be the direction of predictions, and as much as I would love a season centered more on what a French staff thinks about these guests, Mexico would be a fun one.

Katie: There are enough Four Seasons there to make Mexico work.

Tim: For Mexico, it would have to be Riviera Maya. All the types of people the White Lotus likes to make into characters go there.

Katie: Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort, Punta Mita.

Nick: Does a beach have to be a feature?

Katie: No, that’s why I thought Paris or another city might be a bit different.

Suzie: In the last three seasons, beaches and boating have played a role in a lot of scenes, which could mean they’ll go away from that for season 4.

Tim: I also think Rio de Janeiro could make an interesting back drop.

white lotus season 4 location - mexico city

The Four Seasons Mexico City. Photo: Four Seasons Hotel Mexico CIty

Nick: Mexico City or Rio, with guests being isolated from the beautiful chaos in a stunning resort…that would make for good contrasts.

Tim: Yeah, or San Miguel de Allende.

Katie: Right, kind of the same deal as Thai islands vs. Bangkok. I’m glad they shot in Bangkok this season as I think it offers the viewer a wider/better understanding of the culture, rather just being beach.

Suzie: Yeah, Mexico just has so many story lines, especially with Americans coming down in droves and being oblivious to societal issues and the impacts of their travel.

Katie: My issue with Europe is — and I’m making a huge sweeping statement here — the coast is quite similar. If they did the south of France quickly after Sicily, I don’t know if it would work.

Suzie: Katie, agreed, and I kind of don’t think Europe has enough drama for season 4. I know it sounds like they’re looking at warm places in Europe, but I just wonder if going somewhere else in Europe is going to feel too much like season 2 in Italy, especially for some travelers who may see “Europe” as one culture. Maybe one of the two Istanbul four seasons hotels would be unique enough? Either Four Season at the Bosphorus, or Four Seasons Istanbul at Sultanahmet?

Katie: The only coastline I think looks different would be Croatia. Istanbul is a strong contender.

Nick: Istanbul may be a hard one to get filmed at the moment with the political situation….once again bringing up the question of how much real-world events may shape the show. Then again, the gap between seasons is getting longer, so who knows what the situation will be once filming kicks off?

What if they did one of the Four Seasons resorts in Egypt? The Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria could definitely bring the drama.

The waterfront in Alexandria, Egypt. Photo: AlexAnton/Shutterstock

Suzie: Woah, I love that. Think that’s too much of a political risk right now? They couldn’t set that one in a fake, politics-free world without getting torn apart by viewers. Though they did make Leslie Bibb’s character a Trumper this season. No pun intended, but you cant film in Egypt and burry your head in the sand on what’s around you.

Nick: “Sticking your head in the sand about the world” would be a cheeky plot move that fits the general theme.

Suzie: Touché. Well, if they break with the Four Seasons, where do you think? Glamping is so trendy, I wonder if they would go somewhere like Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge on Vancouver Island– $2k a night fly-in glamping resort — and have like a bunch of spoiled bachelorette types? Some bear encounters, perhaps? That said, some of the safari lodges I’ve stayed at are the most over-the-top hotels in the world.

Nick: A bachelor or bachelorette party (or the meeting of those two parties) would be such a good one to play off of. I can’t help but think about the impact that the show has on the actual location, too, though. What place would benefit, what would be hurt by that? Obviously, Thailand getting more strict on tourist visas is not entirely the fault of White Lotus, but all that attention played a part probably?

Katie: As I said, I’d say private island in Aus. “Where the only things more venomous than the local wildlife are the hotel guests.”

white lotus season 4 location - lizard island

A deserted beach on Lizard Island, a fly- and boat-in only resort on the Great Barrier Reef. Photo: Suzie Dundas

Nick: That’s a great tagline. I want it to be Australia now just for that tagline.

Katie: I was thinking on my run about Highlands Scotland and I really wouldn’t want them to film here. We got enough from Outlander.

Suzie: Good point. I wonder what the locations think about being the hosts. The Hawai’i season probably brought a lot of attention to the issues between native Hawaiians and visitors, but I know Italy is suffering under the weight of overtourism and may be sick of tourists by now.

Nick: It’s interesting how watching people be bad tourists makes people want to go to the same place that those bad tourists are.

Katie: Let’s be honest, I don’t think this question is a consideration. It might be now after three seasons, but they picked places already struggling with over tourism.

Nick: That’s a good point…almost like they’re choosing places where they know there are bad tourists and overtourism already.

Suzie: ..so you cant blame the show for adding to it, perhaps.

Katie: It would be harsh and pure speculation to say they don’t care, but I think there would be other practical things that would trump a concern over over tourism.

The white lotus actress -- lalisa-manoba

Despite being arguably the most famous person in the cast, actress Lalisa Manobal, who plays White Lotus employee Mook, wasn’t part of one of the major storylines. Photo: The White LotusHBO/Fabio Lovino

Suzie: This season did feel a little removed from the location..like Katie pointed out, there wasn’t a huge plot line for the staff, at least compared to past seasons. Season 1 did it better. Season 2 too, I guess, at least with locals in general.

Katie: Missed that so much. I want to know the drama behind the scenes. There has to be that interplay between staff and guest. That’s also the reason why they may choose a place that already has high tourist traffic…because the staff are so over it that the cracks are starting to show.

Nick: Taking this all into account, how do we feel about making our predictions. How about everyone gives their top two choices?

Katie: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Tanzania.

Photo: Four Seasons Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat

Nick: What I want to see: White Lotus Egypt. What I think it likely: Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat in France.

Katie: For the second I’m changing my mind now. I’d love to see dramatic cliffs and stormy seas somewhere hauntingly beautiful in the US. But Mexico might be a good shout.

Suzie: I think if he stays in Europe, an Istanbul Four Seasons hotel (or Megève, though that’d be skiing). Outside of Europe, I’d also love to see Four Seasons Tanzania.

Tim: Sticking with Aspen.

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Published on April 07, 2025 15:42

A Lit Course and Glowing Golf Balls Make Arizona the Country’s Top Night Golf Destination

Arizona consistently ranks among the top US states for golf-centric vacations. Cities like Phoenix and Scottsdale boast dozens of courses, being a top destination for golf-themed bachelor parties and corporate retreats in addition to smaller group trips. Thing is, Scottsdale and greater Phoenix at large are friggin’ hot for much of the year – summer temperatures average over 100 degrees from June through August and reach as high as 115 degrees during heat waves. This only looks to get worse as extreme weather events happen with increasing frequency due to the climate crisis. One solution golf courses in the area are undertaking is opening tee times at night, installing lights on the course to allow golfers to enjoy the sport without suffering through the heat.

Traveling in Arizona? Check out Matador’s Arizona accommodations guides: 11 Phoenix Airbnbs With Luxury Pools, Putting Greens and Artsy Vibes Phoenix airport hotels that put you close to your flight and the entire city These Large, Family-Friendly Airbnbs in the Southwest Make the Perfect Holiday Getaway 12 top-rated Airbnbs in Tucson for a charming southwest adventure The Best Airbnbs in Scottsdale, Arizona, for a Bachelorette Party 14 Scottsdale Airbnbs With Pools for a Southwestern Escape

Grass Clippings Rolling Hills in Tempe is Arizona’s first 18-hole lighted night course lit green at grass clippings rolling hills

Photo courtesy Grass Clippings Rolling Hills

One golf course, in particular, is betting its future on an increasing appetite to golf at night. Following the success of entertainment venues like Top Golf, which thrive on evening business from golfers due to lack of competition and a social-friendly setup, Grass Clippings Rolling Hills in Tempe transforms into a par-54, all-par-3 layout at night, with hole distances ranging from approximately 90 to over 200 yards. Illuminated by 78 (often elevated) LED lights, the course allows golfers to track their ball flights against the night sky – and in most cases, even find the ball once they move down the fairway.

Night golf hours extend from dusk until 1 AM daily, though only 9-hole tee times are available after 10 PM. Tee time bookings can be made online up to 14 days in advance. The course also features a 15,000-square-foot practice putting green and a driving range equipped with Toptracer technology, both open until midnight. Much like Top Golf, Grass Clippings Rolling HIlls seeks to capitalize on the entertainment aspect of the sport as much as the game itself – with a new Mexican food restaurant, a patio bar, and an entertainment area for live music and events.

A round of golf costs $45 to $55 at Grass Clippings, with carts available. The course is equipped with a state-of-the-art driving range featuring 25 covered hitting bays, each integrated with Toptracer technology. This setup allows golfers to track their shots even in the dark – and even if you shank it. Adjacent to the driving range is a massive 15,000-square-foot practice putting green which is, appropriately, lit for nighttime use.

Other opportunities to play night golf in Arizona glow golf player on course

Photo courtesy Continental Golf Club

Grass Clippings Rolling HIlls currently corners the market with its lit course and nightly tee times. But it’s not the only place to get in a round after dark. Other courses in the Phoenix area offer what’s been dubbed “glow golf,” where players chase a glowing golf ball down the course. No guarantee that glow will help you find a shanked drive into hedges, but if you play your hand – and your wedges – well, you may get through the round without having to head back to the pro shop for more balls.

Augusta Ranch Golf Club, Mesa

Augusta Ranch Golf Club in Mesa offers a unique night golf experience known as Glow Golf. These events are typically held every other Saturday and include a 9-hole, 4-person scramble format – where each group plays the best ball hit by a group member for each shot. The cost is $45 per player, which includes golf, glow balls, cart, and prizes. The course is an 18-hole, par-61 layout, with night golf sessions covering 9 holes. Tee times begin approximately 30 minutes after sunset.

Continental Golf Club, Scottsdale

Continental Golf Club in Scottsdale, known as the “Glow Golf Capital of Phoenix,” hosts monthly glow-in-the-dark golf events. These events include a 9-hole, 4-player scramble similar to that at Augusta Ranch, a buffet-style dinner, a glow ball, and prizes. Pricing varies: $65 plus tax for the public, $60 plus tax for Card/Club members, and $55 plus tax for Prime members. The course is an 18-hole, par-60 executive layout, with night golf sessions covering 9 holes. Shotgun start times are typically scheduled around 7:30 PM, following dinner.

Palo Verde Golf Course, Phoenix

Managed by the City of Phoenix, Palo Verde Golf Course offers periodic glow golf tournaments. Similar to the format at Augusta Ranch, players get a ball, a meal, and if they show up early enough, a pull-cart for their clubs. They also receive a glowing necklace, presumably so that they remain visible to other players teeing off behind them.

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Published on April 07, 2025 14:02

All the Sustainable Travel Gear Matador Editors Loved This Earth Month

Earth Month should be celebrated whenever you travel. The reasons for this are aplenty, but the good news is that it’s easier than ever to make lower-impact choices when building your travel setup. This month, Matador editors Tim Wenger and Suzie Dundas share the products they’ce acquired lately that they now swear by for both performance and sustainability on the road.

We hope you love the sustainable travel gear 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.

Birkenstock Gizeh Vegan woman in hanging chair wearing birkenstocks

Photo: Suzie Dundas

I’ve been wearing Birkenstocks since I was in middle school, when I’d pair them with enormous jeans and some kind of faux vintage T-shirt from American Eagle Outfitters – you know the look. While I don’t rock that look exactly anymore, I do still love Birkenstocks, and have at least three pairs in my closet. They’re comfortable and last a while, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve also come to appreciate another factor: the brand makes tons of its most popular looks in vegan styles, making it easy to avoid animal-based products. It’s made with Birkibuc, which feels very similar to leather, as well as responsibly sourced cork for the signature footbed. Birkenstocks generally last for years even with heavy wear, and because they’re so popular, it’s easy to find stores to repair everything from the footbed to the buckles, rather than tossing them out.

Price: $79.95

Eagle Creek Stash RFID Passport Wallet eagle creek passport wallet

Photo courtesy Eagle Creek

For years I’d needed a passport protector. My passport’s frayed edges and bent pages looked full-on disheveled each time I’d pull it out at border patrol or to flash an ID. Thing is, I never took action on solving this problem. The reason why, I finally realized, was because a passport protector has traditionally been something that solves only one problem. And due to the fact that it’s not every day that I get my passport out, I just kept dealing with that one minor problem and delaying the solution. That’s until I discovered the Stash RFID Passport Wallet from Eagle Creek.

The Stash Passport Wallet effectively eliminates the need to carry an additional wallet when traveling. It has card slots, a small amount of zipped storage for things like cash and coins, keys, or other small stuff that you need with you. For the passport, it has RFID protection (also helpful for credit cards) and a holder that’s the perfect size for a passport and without making it difficult to access or display. I travel most frequently with the Eagle Creek Expanse roller bag, and I keep the passport wallet in the zipped front compartment so I always know where it is and have it with me when I need it. The Stash, made with 100 percent recycled materials, comes in a smaller wallet size and larger Sling or Crossbody styles, but for me, the Passport Wallet is the perfect size that actually saves me space because I don’t have to bring anything else to carry these small necessary items. – Tim Wenger, transactional content editor

Price: $39

Abode shirts and hoodies pink hoodie from abode

Photo courtesy Abode

There’s good reason to trust Minnesota-based Abode Outside when it comes to eco-friendly outdoor clothing. Notably, northeast Minnesota, where the company is based, is expected to be among the most resilient places on Earth as the climate crisis over the coming decades due to the abundance of fresh water, moderate climate, and vast natural resources. Residents of the region increasingly embrace that resilience in their lifestyles. Abode operates from a solar-powered headquarters, sources wool according to the Responsible Wool Standard, and uses recycled materials whenever possible. That wool is produced using minimal water resources and shipped with eco-friendly packaging. The result is a shirt, hoodie, vest, or beanie that you can feel good about – and that is super comfy, to boot.

I ordered the Rootin’ Graphic Hoodie and my wife promptly stole it from me. She now wears it multiple times per week, as its perfect for lounging on the porch or embarking on an early-morning hike before the sun warms our surrounds. It’s also great for hanging at the campsite, with or without a campfire. – Tim Wenger, transactional content editor

Price: Varies

OKA flip flops oka flip flops near soccer goal

Photo courtesy OKA

Recovery footwear is all the rage now. It’s intended to aid aching feet after prolonged periods of strain – be that through hiking, flying, city strolling, skiing, what have you – and at this point its possible to get just about any type of footwear claiming to help your feet recuperate. Admittedly, I’ve been skeptical. Why wouldn’t I just not wear and shoes for a while and rest my tired trekkers on the couch?

The problem with my logic is that I, and most people, don’t want to stroll barefoot around a campsite. Enter the OKA recovery flip-flops. They’re soft, cushy, and designed to aid in foot recovery and comfort, made of USA-sourced single injection EVA foam. I acquired a pair recently and now keep them stashed with my MTB and hiking pack so I always have them with me after an adventure. The company follows a circular production process that considers wear the sandals end up after their useful life – the company buys back used shoes from retailers, so you can find a place to drop them off (or ship them) once you’re through with them. Tim Wenger, transactional content editor

Price: $49.95

Teva Grandview Max sandals

Photo courtesy Teva

Embarking on a multi-day hike in sandals used to be an exercise in pain, swelling, and discomfort. Until Teva came out with the Grandview Max sandal, a burly hiking sandal that is built for longer adventures. The Grandview Max is vegan and made from 100% REPREVE® recycled polyester webbings and 100% recycled mesh upper.

The Grandview Max sandals of course feature the dignified W strapping that keeps your feet firmly in place as you move down the trail. I’d never been a “hiking in sandals” guy until I got these, but I’ve loved them for hikes on warmer days this spring when conditions are variable and I’m certain to encounter mud and water. I’ve also used them on a dry hike up the Palisade Rim Trail near my house, and they performed well on the rocky high-desert terrain. My main issues with hiking in sandals have traditionally been traction and the fact that my feet slide around in the shoes as I move. Neither of those are an issue with the Grandview Max. I feel just as comfortable taking big, off-balance steps and moving across slickrock or hero dirt as I do in hiking boots. Tim Wenger, transactional content editor

Price: $129.95

Royal Robbins Mojave Pucker

Photo courtesy Royal Robbins

I like a slim-fit shirt. I look and perform better in the outdoors when my clothes aren’t drooping or sliding off my shoulders. The Royal Robbins Mojave Pucker is slim-fit, made of recycled polyester, and climate compensated – which means Royal Robbins is in theory paying to remove at least as much carbon as it emits to produce this shirt. The product is certified Climate Neutral by Climate Partner.

What’s unique about the Mojave Pucker is that it’s moisture-wicking, something more commonly found in baselayers, particularly those made of merino wool. It also features HeiQ Smart Temp Technology to prevent you from becoming too warm during active use.

Price: $90

Fjallraven Samlaren Field Repair Kit

Photo courtesy Fjallraven

The outdoor gear industry is rife with mantras of sustainability. But the truth is that repairing something you already own is almost always more eco-friendly than replacing it. More brands than ever now make this possible through options like send-in-for-repair policies and mobile repair workshops. Fjallraven, however, has now put the ability to repair right in your pocket through its new Samlaren Field Repair Kit. For $25, the kit includes buckles, straps, buttons, and dillydallies to fix jackets, packs, and other wearables on the fly. The kit can be restocked, and the case itself is made of recycled materials.

I keep the Samlaren Field Repair Kit in my pack at all times, and have made it my own by also bringing with it small first-aid stuff, a pen, and a notebook. It takes up minimal space and can fit in smaller backpack pockets. Tim Wenger, transactional content editor

Gregory Border Carry On gregory backpack and straw hat sitting on bed

Photo: Suzie Dundas

It’s hard to think of a product category more oversaturated than backpacks, but there’s one simple feature on the Gregory Border backpack that made it the perfect bag for my recent beach trip. It has a clamshell-style opening, with one side fully lined with “ActiveShield” – a waterproof and odor-proof material that keeps dirty and wet clothing separate from everything else. I used it on scuba diving day trips to hold my soaked wetsuit and smaller dive items, while keeping everything else in the dry compartments. It’s quite large at 40 liters, making it a good pick for buyers who want to maximize their carry-on allowance for beach trips. It’s also fairly sustainably made, using recycled polyester and PFAS-free materials, and coming with a limited lifetime warranty. So with a minimal effort of care, it should last quite a long time. And if something does go wrong, it’s probably fixable with Gregory’s robust repair program.

Price: $169.95

Ocean Armor Poncho Towel woman on boat wearing ocean armor poncho towel

Photo courtesy Suzie Dundas

I always get cold when I go scuba diving, which means I wear a thick wetsuit that takes a while to pull on and off. So when I’m going in and out of the water multiple times a day on vacation, the last thing I want to do is pull off all my layers between dives. That’s why I was stoked to recently come across Ocean Armor, a brand that makes pull-over towel-style ponchos from recycled ocean plastic. I wore it over my swimsuit between dives to stay both warm, and covered – because as most people know, you can get pretty chilly by the end of the day when you spend a lot of time in the water. They’re made in Australia with designs from local artists, and even have pockets. They’re a smart buy for divers, snorkelers, surfers, or anyone who spends entire days in his or her swimsuit, especially as shipping to the US is only $10.

Price: $62

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Published on April 07, 2025 12:33

At the St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, Cocktail Rituals Connect Local Flavors to Time-Honored Tradition

The Maldives has long been synonymous with high-end properties — cue images of white sand beaches and breathtaking overwater bungalows — yet few Maldivian resorts have succeeded in blending time-honored cocktail tradition with local twists, flairs, and flavors like the St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort.

Contrary to the stereotypical frozen drinks and lukewarm beers that island-based chain hotels often have a reputation for serving, this secluded property on the Dhaalu Atoll focuses on a beverage program with aspects both traditional and original. Case in point: the St. Regis “Signature Rituals” that designate a little pick-me-up drink at specified intervals of the day — Bloody Mary Ritual, Afternoon Tea, and the Evening Ritual (sabering a bottle of Champagne). And, at the Maldives location, an extra Violet Hour Ritual at twilight.

Photo: St. Regis Maldives Vommuli

“Signature Rituals are an integral part of the St. Regis brand, embodying the essence of an exquisite stay,” says Sunny Chuang, director of food and beverage at the St. Regis Maldives. Chuang explains that these rituals date back to the Astor family, who founded the first St. Regis property in 1904.

He adds that each ritual offers a modern interpretation of timeless elegance, and is a hospitable way to invite guests to experience the heritage and history of the brand.

Bloody Mary Ritual

Today, there are few cocktails as well known as the bloody mary, and its popularity all started at the St. Regis. In 1934, revered bartender Fernand Petiot mastered the recipe at King Cole Bar, located in the St. Regis New York. Originally called the Red Snapper, the drink was first made with vodka, tomato juice, and a handful of spices. Today, each St. Regis location has its own interpretation of the original libation, and the Maldives resort is no exception.

“Celebrating the distinctive flavors and pristine landscape of the Maldives, [our iteration] elevates the classic bloody mary with kala namak salt, a prevalent seasoning in South Asian cuisine,” Chuang says.

Chuang describes the flavor of kala namak as kiln-fired pink Himalayan salt blended with regional herbs and spices. “This unique seasoning imparts a bold, tangy flavor that enhances the cocktail, evoking the exotic essence of the Maldives,” he says. The drink is served in a seashell-shaped glass to “capture the essence of sunsets over the Indian Ocean, as seen from the white-sand beaches of Vommuli Island.”

Evening Ritual: Champagne Sabering the whale bar at St. Regis Maldives Vommuli

The Whale Bar. Photo: St. Regis Maldives Vommuli

Every evening at 6:45, guests at the St. Regis Maldives are invited to the resort’s Whale Bar to partake in the property’s Champagne Sabering Ceremony, a custom that dates back to the late-19th century. “The tradition of Champagne Sabering dates back to the 1700s when Napoléon Bonaparte and his cavalry would celebrate victories by elegantly sabering bottles of champagne,” Chuang explains, stating that the Astor family subsequently adopted this tradition as a means to welcome the evening and bid farewell to the working day.

While the Champagne sabering ritual isn’t unique to the St. Regis Maldives location, the celebration is taken to the next level. “Our celebration is marked by a vibrant flag procession, with each flag marking a meaningful tribute to the natural beauty surrounding us,” says Chuang. Flags of four different colors are ushered down the bar’s jetty, each representing a different element of the islands: blue for water and calmness, green for nature (which also depicts an image of the majestic Banyan tree found on site), orange for creativity and celebration, and white for peace. Post-saber, complimentary pours of Champagne are distributed to each guest to raise a glass and kick off the evening.

Violet Hour Ritual

In addition to the signature Champagne Sabering Ritual, the St. Regis Maldives’ bar program introduced a second evening tradition, the Violet Hour Ritual, in September 2022. “Inspired by the golden twilight hour, when the sky transforms into a mesmerizing shade of violet, this ritual celebrates the transition from day to night with a signature cocktail experience,” Chuang says. Similar to the Champagne sabering, the Violet Hour Ritual takes place at The Whale Bar, and guests can enjoy a small pour of the bar’s signature violet hour cocktail, which is made from a blend of botanical-infused spirits, floral liqueurs, and a hint of citrus.

“While maintaining the elegance of this celebrated ritual, the cocktail also reflects local flavors, offering guests a distinct taste of the Maldives,” says Chuang, citing the drink as visually striking and flavorful. “This tradition pays homage to the brand’s storied heritage of refined indulgence, inviting guests at The Whale Bar to immerse themselves in a moment of luxury as the sun dips below the horizon,” he explains. Floral and savory, the drink promises to appeal to fans of gin-based cocktails, particularly those with an affinity for wet martinis.

Photo: St. Regis Maldives Vommuli

Beyond the signature Champagne and cocktail rituals, local nods and flavors can be found throughout the bar program at St. Regis Maldives, much of which is centered around zero waste. “The Maldivian philosophy of sustainability is central to our approach, and one key ingredient we highlight is the coconut,” says Chuang, stating that every part of the coconut is used behind the bar, from the water and meat to the shell and leaves.

A prime example of coconut’s many uses can be found in the lost in paradise cocktail, which is inspired by the Ruku Raa, a traditional Maldivian drink made from the sap of coconut palm flowers. “Instead of using the sap, we ferment coconut water and blend it with homemade carbonated wine made from leftover berries sourced from our dining outlets,” says Chuang, which brings a distinct infusion of flavor — as well as Maldivian heritage — to the drink, while also highlighting the brand’s commitment to sustainability.

whale bar deck at St. Regis Maldives Vommuli

View from inside the The Whale Bar. Photo: St. Regis Maldives Vommuli

Additionally, the property offers a Maldivian Sundown Ritual, inspired by the traditional island way of life. “As the sun begins to set, we invite guests to partake in a coconut-smoked cocktail ceremony, a nod to the Maldivian tradition of using coconut shells for smoking and infusing flavors,” Chuang says. Guests are invited to join the staff at the Beach Bar, where a number of cocktails infused with locally sourced spices, tropical fruits, and smoked coconut essence are served. “This sensory experience not only highlights traditional Maldivian ingredients but also captures the beauty of a Maldivian sunset in every sip,” he says.

Nods to local flavors and traditions are equally found in the hotel’s hand-harvested herbal infusions, which incorporate indigenous Maldivian herbs and botanicals (such as pandan leaves, screw pine, and dried hibiscus) in bespoke tea-inspired cocktail recipes. “These ingredients have been used for centuries in local remedies, and incorporating them into our drinks allows guests to experience a true taste of the Maldives in a refined and memorable way,” says Chuang.

Above all, what sets the St. Regis Maldives’ beverage program apart from other luxury properties based on the islands is its celebration of heritage through drinks and cocktails, which offer a literal and figurative taste of the true essence of the Maldives. “Through these carefully curated experiences,” Chuang says, “we ensure that every guest at St. Regis Maldives doesn’t just enjoy a drink but embarks on a journey through the culture and traditions of this breathtaking destination.”

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