Matador Network's Blog, page 465
June 10, 2022
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. 
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.
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
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
Traveling through Illinois? Check out Matador’s Illinois accommodations guides:The 10 coolest Airbnbs in ChicagoCrooked 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
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
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
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
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
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
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 stayFor 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 stayRelax 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.
June 9, 2022
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 escapePhoto: 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
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
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 NorthwestLava 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
A Local’s Guide To the Best Mezcal Spots in Puerto Escondido
Agaves — both wild and farmed — that are distilled into mezcal are a familiar sight on roadsides across Oaxaca. Yet in the perfect beach town that is Puerto Escondido, mezcal takes a relative backseat compared other parts of the state. Still, skipping Oaxaca’s most famous spirit on a visit would be like avoiding bourbon in Kentucky just because you’re not in Lexington or Louisville. In Puerto Escondido, you just need a few local recommendations to guide you to the best in town.
Carlos Sada was born in Mexico City and spent years as a corporate lawyer for bars and restaurants in Mexico. He founded the first online distribution store for mezcal and agave spirits, and for the past decade has he worked with various mezcal brands. Currently Sada is the head of operations for Producer Mezcal.
Sada has lived in Puerto Escondido with his wife for the past two years, though he’s been traveling to the region for the past two-plus decades. His time here has led to an expertise of the best places to find good mezcal in this beach town that’s more famous for parties and surfing than for great mezcal spots.
“It really depends on the area where you’re drinking in Puerto,” Sada says, adding that “there are some great bars with good mezcals, and it is rare that you will find mezcals that are not from the state of Oaxaca. In other tourist destinations, you usually can find mezcals from all over the country.”
Bars and restaurants in Puerto Escondido, as is the case across Oaxaca, often have a house mezcal. This option is usually 40 percent ABV (low for a mezcal compared to traditional offerings) and is typically made with espadin, which is the easiest commercially grown agave used for mezcal. However, some places will have a wider selection of mezcals made with agaves like San Martin (also called Karwinskii), tobala, tepeztate, arroqueño, and multi-agave blends called ensambles, among others.
When in Oaxaca, try what you can, because it can be hard to find non-espadin mezcals in many parts of the United States. San Martin is a favorite of Sada’s at the moment for its clean, crisp, and green flavor. The Producer’s master distiller Juan Pacheco makes one in the town of Ejutla, as well as a small-batch arroqueño, which is a rare, wild-grown agave that reaches at least 17 years of age before it’s harvested. Find the right place to drink, and you can find these styles and more.
From the best Puerto Escondido beaches to enjoy some mezcal to the best bars and restaurants, here’s a local’s guide to where to drink mezcal in Puerto Escondido.
Photo: Henrique Nishimura/Shutterstock
Matador Network: What’s your favorite Puerto Escondido beach for kicking back with some mezcal and why?Carlos Sada: Bacocho! It’s a certified clean beach and it offers the best sunsets.
What’s your favorite bar in Puerto Escondido for when you’re looking for a reliably good mezcal selection?Mombasa bar. Its more of a party bar, but their selection is good and they have great cocktails. And the live music and dj’s make it fun to drink there.
What’s your favorite Puerto Escondido restaurant with a good mezcal selection?View this post on InstagramA post shared by Omara (@omara.rest)
Omara Restaurant. Besides owning it, I hand-selected the mezcals, and you can pick between different types of flights and pair them with a nice set of oysters. I live in Rinconada, which is a residential area of Puerto Escondido with a much more relaxed atmosphere.
More Rinconada recommendations from Sada:
Restaurante el Nene for casual food and mezcalAmloraduz for high-end Oaxacan cuisine and great mezcalWhat areas of Puerto Escondido are the best for bar hopping if you’re looking to drink mezcal?La Punta is definitely a good place if you are looking to meet people and party. Savanna, Mombasa, and Piyoli are three bars that are fun and conscious of what they serve.
Photo: The Producer Mezcal
What’s the best way to drink mezcal in Puerto Escondido?Neat is always the first option, but since there are many Americans and Europeans coming in looking for cocktails, some bars have nice offers.
Are there any Puerto Escondido hotels that you recommend that have a good connection to mezcal?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.
Casona Sfroza is a beautiful hotel that has a great selection of mezcals. Hotel el Escondido is also beautiful and actually has its own mezcaleria called Cobarde, which is worth checking out even though it’s 30 minutes away from Puerto Escondido by car.
How To Make the Perfect S’more, According To a Resort S’moresologist
If there’s any dessert celebrated for its simplicity, it’s the s’more. When the campfire classic first appeared in a Girl Scout guidebook 95 years ago, the recipe had three ingredients: graham crackers, “plain” chocolate and marshmallows. Just add heat and voila! You have an ooey, gooey, chocolate-infused graham cracker sandwich. If only it were that easy. Preparing the perfect s’more is art, and The Resort at Paws Up in Greenough, Montana employees experts to teach guests how to do it right – a so-called s’moresologist.
The position might seem a little indulgent but to be fair, anyone who has ever tried to roast a marshmallow evenly knows it takes serious skill. There’s also the question of how much chocolate to add. End up with the wrong ratio, or worse – chocolate that won’t melt – and it’s easy to create a melted, dripping mess. Despite growing up in a family who spent every other weekend (rain or shine) camping, I’ve always struggled with my s’mores game. I can pitch a tent, but don’t ask me to toast your marshmallow unless you like them well past well done.
Photo: The Resort at Paws Up
If you want to up your s’mores game in time for your next camping trip, good news: Matador recently chatted with a The Resort at Paws Up s’moresologist, John Cameron. Technically, Cameron’s day job is glamping butler. However, after the sun sets, you’ll find him hovering around the fire teaching travelers the art, and science, behind the perfect s’more. Here’s what he has to say about his sweet gig.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
MATADOR NETWORK: When I last visited in 2018, Paws Up only had one s’moresologist. How many do you have these days?All our glamping staff are certified s’moreologists and enjoy leading the s’mores experience for our guests. It is inclusive with all glamping stays [rates around $1,500 per night] and takes place every night around the campfire.
What are your official responsibilities as a s’moresologist?We act as the Master of Ceremonies for the nightly s’mores presentation in our glamping camps. We lead by example, offer tips on how to make the perfect s’more and give suggestions on ingredients to have fun with and get creative. After guests have showcased their creative abilities, we present them with a certificate to prove they are now a Certified S’moreologist.
What do you think is the biggest mistake people make when making s’mores?Not having enough patience. Patience is the key to a beautiful s’more, both when roasting the marshmallow and after assembly to let the chocolate melt.
I know most people use Hershey’s, but what’s your go-to chocolate bar when it comes to making s’mores?Lindt chocolate bars. We use a variety of flavors; chili dark chocolate is my favorite!
What is the ideal chocolate to marshmallow ratio?This is absolutely up to the s’mores maker, but many experts advise a section of chocolate above and below the marshmallow that is roughly the same size as the marshmallow. We recommend lots of practice to find the perfect chocolate-to-marshmallow ratio that makes the best-tasting s’mores for your palate.
What’s your secret to getting the chocolate to melt?Let the s’more rest after assembly, the chocolate will have time to heat up and melt.
What brand of graham crackers and marshmallows do you use?We cannot divulge our trade secrets! Seriously, though, it’s more important that, whatever brand is chosen, that the ingredients are fresh and not stale. There’s nothing yummy about stale graham crackers or stiff marshmallows.
How can people easily elevate their s’mores game without it getting too complicated?We love to add fresh fruit to s’mores. You can only imagine how adding strawberry slices to a s’more will create a great chocolate-covered strawberry effect. We’ve always wanted to try huckleberries, too, since they’re so plentiful in Montana—and bananas are also a great addition.
Bacon (and candied bacon) and peanut butter (or peanut butter cups)—and even potato chips—are also highly recommended to add a bit of a saltiness to the sweet chocolate. Some other atypical but delicious ingredients include caramel candies, such as Rolos, and white chocolate and even gumdrops. Some folks like to add spices, such as cayenne pepper, to the mix to add a bit of kick—or even hot sauce!
Do you ever get international guests who have never had a s’more before? And what are their reactions to the dessert?Yes, they’ve often only seen them in movies and usually are the most excited to try them!
What’s your secret to roasting the perfect marshmallow?Again, patience. Go low and slow, having a nice bed of coals helps achieve a perfect golden s’more. A rookie mistake is putting the whole marshmallow into an open flame, that’s a recipe for a charred black marshmallow!
Is it OK to toast a marshmallow over an open flame or should it always be done over coals?It’s totally acceptable to roast over an open flame. Just try not to catch the s’more on fire—unless you are imitating an Olympic torch runner while humming the Olympics theme—another time-honored s’mores making tradition.
Why is The Resort at Paws Up so dedicated to the art and science of making s’mores?What could be more iconic than s’mores around the campfire while glamping in Montana? It’s an essential part of the experience. Also, we love that this is a sentimental treat for many adults, as it reminds them of their childhood. It ends up creating wonderful bonding moments for families and memories that will last long after they depart the resort.
The 5 Most Popular Cities for Runners in the US, According To Instagram
According to a 2020 report from the Sports and Fitness Industry Association, more than 15 percent of Americans consider themselves runners (as in, people who regularly run or jog for fun or health). So it’s not surprising that there are more than 600 hashtags on Instagram that celebrate the best cities for runners in the United States, like #SFRunning or #ChicagoRunners.
Recently, SportsShoes.com, which sells running footwear and gear, took a look at quantitative data on Instagram to tally running-related hashtags. The final numbers showed the five most popular cities for running in the US, as measured by the number of times runners used location-specific hashtags in Instagram posts. SportsShoes.com’s analysts looked at data for cities worldwide, using a hashtag with a specific formula for each: #run{city}.
Of the top 10 best cities for runners, five of the top spots went to US cities. The other best cities for runners around the world were London, UK; Melbourne, Australia; Paris, France; and Calgary and Ottawa in Canada. In the US, the best cities for runners are pretty cities that are mostly flat, making it easy for runners and joggers of various ability levels to find suitable routes.
These are the best trails within the best cities for runners across the US:
Chicago, IL (56,963 tags for #runChicago)Boston, MA (54,609 tags for #runBoston)Houston, TX (50,182 tags for #runHouston)Baltimore, MD (31,538 tags for #runBaltimore)Austin, TX (29,098 tags for #runAustin)Need some new running gear?Chicago, IllinoisCheck out our editors’ picks for their favorite pieces:
The Six Best Women’s Trail Shoes for Ultralight Outdoor FunOur Editors Tested the Best Eco-Friendly Spring Hiking Gear — Here’s What’s Worth Your Money.The Best Outdoor Gear That Looks Good, Too.
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A post shared by Stacey: iced coffee runner & run coach (@s__gross)
The Lakefront Trail is the obvious choice of where to run in Chicago, covering 18 miles of paved running bath along Lake Michigan. However, it gets busy in the summer (thanks to the many nearby beaches) and can be chilly in the winter. So if you’d like to avoid either of those, consider instead a run in Grant Park. The park has about five miles of paved trails so runners can build their own routes within the sprawling green space.
Boston, MassachusettsView this post on Instagram
A post shared by UFGatorATL (@ufgatoratl)
While Boston’s most well-known trail is the Freedom Trail, it’s a popular walking tour for visitors, so it’s not the best for runners. Instead, runners should head across the river to Cambridge and run around the Charles River Loop (25 miles) or do a quick jog through the Harvard University campus, totaling about two miles.
Houston, TexasView this post on Instagram
A post shared by Karim (@runningreminder)
In Houston, runners can hit the Buffalo Bayou Park, a 160-acre public park with a five-foot-wide running path weaving throughout the grounds. A non-profit partnership is currently working on expanding the trail and connecting it with additional trails in the city, which will likely cement Houston’s rep as one of the best cities for runners for years to come. Most runners currently hit the Sandy Reed Memorial Trail, which runs for about five miles through the park and can connect with the nearby exercise trail in Memorial Park to create closer to an 11-mile run.
Baltimore, MarylandView this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jarrett Weisberg (@jarrettweisberg)
Baltimore‘s Inner Harbor is the touristy hot spot in town, especially for visitors headed to the fabulous Baltimore Aquarium or baseball games at Camden Yards. But it’s also a fantastic place for runners as the Waterfront Promenade can connect to other city pretty neighborhoods like Canton and Federal Hill. History buffs may want to run the roughly one-mile path around Fort McHenry, though the 5.7-mile Herring Run Greenway is an excellent pick if you like being surrounded by nature while you pack on the miles.
Austin, TexasView this post on Instagram
A post shared by Michael Brichford (@aranciobruciato)
The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a beautiful 7.8-mile trail that passes several waterfalls as it runs through lush Texas greenery. It gains about 360 feet of elevation and is on a mix of surfaces, so it’s not quite as easy as running on an easy paved trail.
If that’s too challenging, hit the Lady Bird Lake Trail (technically called the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail). It’s 10 miles long but is paved and flat, so runners can do it as an out-and-back, turning around wherever they’d like. Runners can also do whatever distance they’d like on the Shoal Creek Greenbelt; the area through Pease Park passes by some beautiful installation art.
For more data and details on the best cities for runners around the world, view the full Instagram analysis at SportsShoes.com.
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Perfect Weather, Koalas, and Seafood: Why Now Is the Best Time To Visit Brisbane, Australia
Australia enacted some of the most strict lockdown restrictions in 2020, which kept any and all tourists out. Then, in February, the country once again opened back up to Americans — just in time for the more comfortable Australian winter temperatures.
For US travelers on the West Coast, getting to Australia has never been easier thanks to a new Qantas direct route from Los Angeles to Brisbane (the business class seats are worth it if you can spring for them, as the flight is 14 hours and lie-flat seats will have you well rested and refreshed when you land). This coastal river city is the perfect jumping off point for Americans looking to head down under. Outdoor experiences, a roster of smart restaurants and bars, and classic animal experiences can all be taken in even on a short trip.
What to do in Brisbane
Photo: Jason Mar
Moreton Bay Cruise: Moreton Island is a short 30 minute boat ride from the coast, and is well known to locals and tourists alike. The main attraction is the scuttled Tangalooma shipwrecks that act as a man-made reef for marine wildlife. I went with River to Bay, which drops guests off on the north end of the shipwrecks to allow the current to gently push them across the ocean. With the help of our guides, we snorkeled through the bright blue waters among all of the marine life (mostly a vast array of fish, but depending on the season humpback whales, dolphins, and turtles all call Moreton Island home). Depending on which cruising company you decide to go with, additional things are typically added to the itinerary, including stops for lunch and culture and history tours of areas like St. Helena Island.
Photo: Jason Mar
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: Local Australia fauna is on full display here. Purchase your tickets online to skip the long queue to enter the park. Time it right and you can watch the entertaining and informative Birds of Prey and Sheepdog shows back to back. But the not to be missed parts of Lone Pine are the up-close interactions you can have with the wildlife. In a designated portion of the park, guests can hand feed kangaroos and wallabies. And for a fee, you can also get your photo taken while holding a koala.
Photo: Jason Mar
Kayak the Brisbane River with Riverlife Adventure Centre: It’s easy to see the city from the road, but seeing it from the river on a kayak offers a different (and beautiful) perspective. Admittedly, you will have to put a little bit of work to paddle against the current at the start. But once you’ve done that, you’re rewarded with a relaxing float back to your starting point.
Photo: Jason Mar
Story Bridge Adventure Climb: Strapped in by a safety harness and escorted by a guide, you can walk 243 feet up the side of the bridge to get a 360-degree view of the city. If you book the most popular twilight tour, your climb is perfectly timed with the sunset and get to watch the sun disappear behind the skyline with the office buildings twinkling at night. Walking back down the bridge is definitely less demanding than the walk up, but it’s not everyday that you get to walk up Brisbane’s most iconic bridge.
Where to eat and drink in Brisbane
Photo: Jason Mar
While places like Moreton Island and Story Bridge get the lion’s share of the attention, the real star of Brisbane is the food, which has strong culinary influences from Asia and Europe.
Southside: Located in South Brisbane, this restaurant offers a modern take on classic Cantonese dishes like k’gari crab, prawn, chive ha gow, wagyu xiao long bao.
Howard Smith Wharves: For those looking to check out one of Brisbane’s newest hip areas, take a visit to the Howard Smith Wharves. Located underneath the Story Bridge, the area has been completely redone with paved walkways, restaurants, and Felons Brewery. Take a stop by Mr. Percival’s (reservation recommended) for a meal of elevated pizzas, burgers, seafood, or grilled steak, lamb, or chicken (or simply an aperitivo hour from 3 to 5 on weekdays).
Photo: Jason Mar
Maillard Project: For the early risers located in the Central Business District, (or CBD), be sure to make your way over to Maillard Project. Here, you’ll find some of the best coffee and breakfast food in town. The menu serves up some classics with a modern twist, like eggs Benedict with burnt butter and miso hollandaise sauce on a spiced walnut crumb cornbread waffle. Or order something more adventurous like the wattleseed (from the acacia plant) macadamia pudding, coffee oil, and roselle.
Photo: Jason Mar
Joey’s: A place that’s airy and relaxing with expansive views of the Brisbane Skyline and the river. Pair that with some of the signature cocktails and seafood like prawns, oysters, and ceviche (or a wood-fired pizza if that’s more your mood), you’ve got yourself a winning combination.
Where to stay in BrisbaneWe hope you love the spaces 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.
Hotel X: Located in Fortitude Valley, this hotel is near lots of up and coming things to know in Brisbane. Here, it’s just a short walk to the Howard Smith Wharves, and the restaurants, bars, and shops on James Street are only a block away. On-site spots like Iris Rooftop Bar and the classy, yet unpretentious, Bisou Bisou are available if you want to stay at the hotel. The hotel itself is modern with the right amount of bold decor, and the rooms have a generous amount of space. One cool standout perk: the automatic shades open up every time you return to the room, so even when you’re inside you’re not missing a second of the gorgeous city views from the floor-to-ceiling windows.
How To Travel With a Carry-On Only, According To a Professional Packer
Packing is an art form that can make or break your trip. It is also a skill you can learn and with the right tools and techniques, you’ll never have to worry about lost luggage, cumbersome bags, or over-packing again. I work as a mountain guide, spending up to three weeks straight in the backcountry with everything I need in my backpack. I begin each trip with guests sharing my packing tips and teaching them how to minimize and efficiently fit everything in.
The same principles I apply to backcountry gear also apply to packing for travel. This spring, I spent several months backpacking in Peru, the UK, and the US. By following my sure-fire tips, I packed everything I needed in a carry-on. Here’s how I did it.
We hope you love the carry-on packing tips and products we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to purchase.
Pack only the essentials
Photo: Chelsey Cook
Keep your packing list minimalist and multi-functional. The easiest way to cut down on what you’re bringing is to take a hard look at your clothing. Remember that if you don’t wear it at home, you won’t wear it traveling, and you only need to pack for a week — just a week. On longer trips, you can do laundry.
Start by building out a capsule wardrobe. Pick outfits that can be easily mixed and matched, dressed up and dressed down. Choose neutral colors like black and gray, and fabrics that won’t wrinkle or smell, like merino wool or synthetics. Trade out bulky pieces like jeans and heavy jackets for more packable choices, like hiking pants and down jackets. Your key items are ones that can pull double or even triple-duty; a pair of athletic shorts can be pajamas, workout wear, and swimsuit bottoms.
Shoes also take up an enormous amount of room in luggage, so bring a versatile pair.
Photo: REI
I love these Timberland boots; not only are they comfortable for walking around the city, they’re also waterproof and can double as hiking shoes.
As for the rest, stick with minimal and refillable travel-size toiletries (you can always restock on the road) and only as many gadgets as you need.
The right tools for the jobNow that you’ve downsized what you’re bringing, it’s time to dig into my carry-on packing tips and decide what luggage you’ll use to pack. Lost luggage can add an enormous amount of stress to any trip, so I always fly with only carry-on. With your downsized packing list, you should be able to fit everything you need without checking a bag. Most airlines allow you to take one carry-on and one personal item for free. Some budget airlines, such as Spirit and Frontier, have started charging for the overhead carry-on, so check before booking your flight. Think carefully about your carry-on luggage
Photo: REI
I swear by the Patagonia Hole® Duffel for my carry-on bag. When they say black hole, they mean it. The 40-liter size fits well in overhead storage and packs like a far larger bag, thanks to its rectangular design and beefy zippers. Even when I think the duffel has reached max capacity, I’m always able to stuff more in one of the corners, making it the perfect bag for everything from a weekend getaway to a round-the-world trip.
I prefer the standard version of the Black Hole® Duffel, which comes with straps that turn the bag into a comfortable backpack. Patagonia also offers a wheeled version that can be a great option if your travels don’t include stairs or cobble-stoned streets. The fabric itself is durable, water repellent, made from recycled materials, and despite dragging mine all over the world for three years, it doesn’t show any wear. The duffel also stuffs down into its own external side pocket, making it easy to store when not in use.
Also upgrade your personal item bag
Photo: Chelsey Cook
The same carry-on packing tips apply to organizing your personal item bag.
Leg length will somewhat dictate the size of your personal item and what you’re willing to put up with under your feet during a long flight. I can comfortably fit a 35-liter backpack under the seat without the flight attendants giving me too much side-eye.
If your travels include hiking or long days, make sure your personal item can double as a day-pack. I enjoy using the Black Diamond Cirque 35-liter backpack for my personal item, but there are plenty of options out there. The key is to look for a bag that has a large, open design. While gadgets, extra pockets, and compartments are nice, they take up valuable packing space. A small stash pocket or two is enough to keep your passport and wallet easily accessible.
Organization tools
Photo: Chelsey Cook
Because both your carry-on and personal item operate more like stuff sacks than anything else, you may want some added organization while you’re packing.
Packing cubes are a superb choice to keep your socks from your shirts, both in your bag and at your destination, and there are also lightweight options if weight is a concern. I love using compression bags; they are essentially vacuum-sealed bags that don’t require a pump or vacuum, so you can easily reuse them while traveling. They’re perfect for bulky clothing, like jackets and jeans, and compact your clothes into manageable rolls. I also bring a handful of plastic baggies in different sizes, which can be used for everything from wet clothes to swiping danishes from the continental breakfast.
How to pack a carry-onOnce you have everything laid out, choose a few of the bulkiest items to go into your main bag, laying them along the base of the duffel. If you’re packing an extra set of shoes, fill up their insides with socks before packing them. Then, pick some more squishable items such as sweaters and pants, and pack them in around the bulky items, being sure to squeeze any arms or legs into the nooks and crannies. (This is where you’ll be glad you’re bringing wrinkle-resistant clothes.) Keep alternating between bulky and soft items until you’ve packed the duffel into what is basically a solid block.
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