Matador Network's Blog, page 466
May 16, 2022
Canada’s 17 Top Rated Airbnbs Are Both Wild and Remote
Nothing signifies summer like a good road trip. In 2022, the place to be for your summer road trip is Canada – and to inspire your travels, Matador compiled the top-rated Airbnbs in Canada across the country’s vast wild spaces that will make the perfect base for your adventures up north.
We hope you love the top-rated Airbnbs in Canada 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.
Cob Cottage – Mayne Island, British Columbia
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Check out this cozy retreat that reminds you of something that is straight out of The Lord of the Rings. The Cobb Cottage is hand-sculpted using local and sustainable materials. This cozy cottage is perfect for solo or couples trips. Relax and immerse yourself in the central living space with cantilevered slab stairs that lead to its loft bedroom.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $154 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Hiding between large cedars and a giant maple is this unique treehouse. This treehouse reaches thirty meters off the ground and is attached to four large trees. There is a large deck with a canopy with complete privacy, and the treehouse is only five minutes from Sooke City Center and Sooke Potholes.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $179 per night
Photo: Airbnb
This lighthouse was built in 1905 and was the only working Candain Federal lighthouse until 1962. If you’re looking for a peaceful and quiet retreat, this lighthouse is your place to go. Many writers, songwriters, and artists have enjoyed the stunning views and calm, serene landscape because it gives the privacy to be creative.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $200 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Check out this hobbit-themed, inspired fantasy home. The Hobbit House is located on a mountain and surrounded by nature and hundreds of acres that you can hike or go exploring. This home is the perfect place to come out and unwind and disconnect from the world.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $288 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Stay at this unique home that is in the sky. This chalet has panoramic views, and it uses solar power throughout. This home welcomes you to pure relaxation with large windows and breathtaking views. Take the time to enjoy, relax, and disconnect from the world in this ecologic chalet.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $259 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
One hour away from Toronto is the unique glamping experience called Lal Luna. La Luna is an off-grid glamping experience where you can stay under the stars in a geodesic dome. Located on Haute Gaue Farm, over 200 acres here, you can explore the magic of the farm and the animals like Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Huacaya Alpacas, Exotic Chickens, and Icelandic Horses. Stare out at the gorgeous views, relax in the cozy living room area, chill out in the hammocks, or hang out in the stargazing loft.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $219 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
The Birdhouse is the contemporary designer treehouse of your dreams. This treehouse has the seclusion and relaxation you need or want for a getaway. You will truly be immersed in all that nature offers by engaging with the farm’s cattle when they pass by and other curious and friendly animals. Unwind on the cedar deck and take in the view of the mountains and even stargaze at nightfall.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $120 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This incredible yurt is located in the heart of Lakeland ner Emma and Christopher Lake. The unique yurt is spacious and perfect for a lovely couple’s retreat. There is a private lake where canoe, paddles, and lifejackets are provided. You’ll have access to incredible beaches, restaurants, and grocery stores, and the yurt is also near the Prince Albert National Park, where there are plenty of outdoor activities to pursue.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $171 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This Earth home in Wellington on Prince Edward Island is sure to get you connected to nature. A home that you can feel good about staying in for a few days, the property is made out of recycled materials and works with the Earth’s natural phenomena such as the rain and sun to heat, cool, collect water and grow food indoors, making it extremely eco-friendly. The house uses greywater to water its plants. The house is also only 15 minutes away from Summerside, the boardwalk, beautiful red-sandl beaches, restaurants, and live theatre. And guests can walk or take the complimentary bikes to Confederation Trail.
six guests, one bedroom
Price: $134 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Staying in a yurt should be on everyone’s must-do list. This Mongolian yurt is located in Whitehorse in Yukon Territory and sits on 21 private acres on Cowley Lake with stunning mountain views. Guests who stay during the winter months can get great views of the northern lights and use the wood stove to keep it warm and toasty when it’s cold.
four guests, one bedroom
Price: $72 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Get picturesque views from high above when you stay at the Lighthouse Inn in Burlington, Newfoundland and Labrador. This property uses all the space it can with four levels. The first level has a kitchen and sitting area and a bathroom. The second has a bedroom for two and a washroom. The third has space to accommodate children or extra guests. But the best part of the home is the top level with a deck offering an amazing view of the harbor.
three guests, one bedroom
Price: per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This 100-year-old castle in Moncton, New Brunswick may look like something out of the Middle Ages on the outside, but inside it’s an incredibly chic and modern property. Guest will also locally made art on the main floor lobby and in the units which are available for purchase.
four guests, two bedrooms
Price: per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
If you’ve ever wanted to stay on a river, a houseboat takes that to the next level. Located in Wakefield, Quebec, the River Den is on the Gatineau River. Guests will be forced to reconnect with nature, as the space lacks electricity except for a few USB ports. Enjoy the peace and quiet the space has to offer.
two guests, one bedroom
Price: $73 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This unique Earthship located in Hope River on Prince Edward Island is completely off the grid giving nature-lovers an opportunity to enjoy all the space has to offer. The property uses a south facing wall of windows, an earthen floor and a green roof to keep you cool in the summer and warm for the wall. The home is also surrounded by wildlife, and offers forest, trails, a deck over a nearby forest stream, and aroof patio with a view above the treetops.
two guests, two bedrooms
Price: $115 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
A dome home is one of the coolest types of homes to stay in architecturally. Refuge Bay in Cherhill, Alberta offers a glamping experience all throughout the year. This naturistic adventure grants guests access to the gorgeous Parkland landscape & private preserved wetland lake where guest can catch glimpses of wildlife. It’s giant window and transparent roof are perfect for taking in breathtaking views and stargazing at night. Guests will also have access to a wood-fired barrel sauna that will just need to be booked in advance. For meals, guests will be able to cook outside on the campfire grill or propane BBQ.
four guests, one bedroom
Price: $227 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnbdv
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
A treehouse is a childhood dream come true. This home in Sooke, British Columbia is located in a rainforest with access to rural land and the ocean making for a unique stay. The treehouse is definitely nature meets modern, with stainless steel appliances in the kitchenette and a gorgeous dining space, a separate-entrance bathroom with tiled shower that overlooks the forest, a treehouse path, adeck with an outdoor tub, and a propane firepit.
two guests, one bedroom
Price: $257 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This gorgeous tiny chalet home is Lac-Beauport, Quebec surrounded by giant sequoias and just 25 minutes from Old Quebec. The second floor is located at the highest peak of Lac-Beauport offering breathtaking views and lots of sunshine even during the cold months. Combined with the chic minimalist design, this property will have you never wanting to leave. But if you do decide to venture out, the property has access to 20 kilometers (12.4 mi) of hiking trails to get some fresh air in.
four guests, one bedroom
Price: $241 per night
A $27 Airport Beer Inspired NYC To Cap Food and Drink Prices at JFK, LaGuardia
One of my personal favorite airport pastimes is to grab a drink while I’m waiting for my flight to depart, no matter the time of day. Sipping a beer at an airport bar helps pass the time while I fight pre-flight excitement and jitters. But there’s no denying that drinks at the airport – and particularly at New York City airports – are exorbitant, and you can’t have more than one without your wallet feeling the strain. All that could be changing soon, though.
Port Authority, the governing body that controls JFK and LaGaurdia airports, as well as Newark airport in New Jersey, recently released a report outlining a new set of policies which intend to reign in the high cost of food and drink at these three airports.
The report states that it “requires concessionaries to offer lower-priced food and beverage options to provide a wider range of value for customer.” What that means in practice is that bars and restaurants can’t charge more than 10 percent higher than what items cost outside of the airport – what Port Authority calls “street prices.”
A complaint on social media launched Port Authority’s investigation into predatory prices at the airport. Someone tweeted a picture of the prices at Biergarten in LaGuardia Airport’s Terminal C that included a seasonal beer priced at $27.85. This seemed to catch the eye of Port Authority officials, who found that, according to the report, the vendor “erroneously added surcharge on top of an inflated base price,” resulting in a mind-boggling price for one beer.
The Port Authority report doesn’t hold back: Price hikes at the airport are called “totally indefensible.” Any customers who were charged $27 for their pre-flight drink were refunded, and instead of shying away from further scrutiny, the report actually encourages other customers who think they are being unfairly charged to complain on social media.
In the meantime, Port Authority says it will continue to monitor what vendors are charging at the airport. So next time you’re at the airport, you might just feel better about ordering that second beer. 
Hang Gliding Vs Paragliding Vs Parasailing: What’s the Difference?
If you’re willing to take a leap of faith, the sky can be your playground.
Though being able to safely fly on columns of rising and falling air may seem a bit crazy, it’s safer than you’d think. All you need is a large, lightweight, and highly maneuverable wing, and you can learn to gain and lose altitude as you soar, swoop and bring out your inner eagle. That’s the beauty of hang gliding. Or is it parasailing? Or paragliding?
Assuming you’re willing to run into the void off a high platform or cliff, you can try hang gliding or paragliding. And an encouraging instructor (who will likely be your tandem partner) is worth their weight in gold if they help you build up the courage to leap. (Okay – maybe worth their weight in feathers.) And parasailing is even easier.
But which is which, between hang gliding vs. parasailing vs. paragliding? And which is better? Well, that’s all down to personal preference since both have pluses and misuses. Here are the differences between the three sports, along with how to pick one and where to travel to try them.
Hang gliding vs paragliding
Paragliders have parachute-type sails. Photo: Denis Belitsky/Shutterstock
The primary and most noticeable difference between hang gliding vs paragliding is the wing, or sail. In paragliding, the wing looks much like a parachute. It’s flexible and made with a two-layer fabric. A paraglider can fit into a large backpack and weighs between 15 and 30 pounds, give or take.
A hang glider wing and its associated poles weigh around 45 to 55 pounds. That’s because a hang gliding wing is larger and more solid, with a metal frame shaped like a thick arrow. Rather than hanging in a seated harness from parachute cord, as you do with paragliding, hang gliders hold on to a metal bar attached to the frame. And they’re harnessed to the wing as well, of course.
One of the most important differences between hang gliding vs paragliding is how much time you can spend in the air. Ultimately, the goal of flying is to stay aloft as long as possible. You can calculate your time in the air using what’s called the “Glide Ratio,” or how far a glider will travel over the height that it falls. This is usually shown as a ratio like 5:1 or 15:1.
Paragliders sit in a comfortable hanging seat, as opposed to laying prone as with hang gliding. Photo: simona pilolla 2/Shutterstock
For example, a glider with a glide ratio of 8:1 means the glider will move forward eight feet for every one foot it descends in elevation. Hang gliders usually have glide ratios around 15:1 or as high as 20:1, meaning they can generally achieve a longer flight time. This also means hang gliders can fly further from the same starting point.
Hang gliders are also faster. However, paragliders have the edge when turning in a tight radius, usually to take advantage of rising thermals of hot air. And ultimately, that’s what will keep you in the air for as long as possible. They also need a smaller area for takeoff and landing, both of which can happen at lower speeds.
If you want to get all aerobatic and nifty, hang gliders can soar and swoop at speed. With pilots in a prone position close to the wing, any movements to the frame are near-instantaneous. With paragliders, it’s generally a little more laid back (though you’ll find skilled pilots who do stunt flying). And the harness is a more comfortable seat.
Paragliding vs. parasailing
Parasailers are towed behind boats. Photo: Vasily Smirnov/Shutterstock
For a truly laid-back and easy flight, it’s hard to beat parasailing. Sure, getting towed behind a boat and being held aloft a scant hundred feet isn’t exactly as adrenaline-inducing as leaping off a cliff, but it’s a great vacation option since it requires no commitment or training. Parasailing is less risky than paragliding or hang gliding and takes less time; most tours keep you in the air for around 15 minutes. And knowing there’s likely to be a cold drink waiting for you as you get winched back to the boat has a certain appeal.
How to decide between hang gliding vs. paragliding
Both sports usually come with great views. Photo: Bruno Mogli Gilioli/Shutterstock
“I’ve done both sports,” says pilot Mike Gustafen, “and both offer different ways to take to the air. Paragliding offers an easier entry for people, while hang gliding is better for the more experienced flier who’s looking for fast thrills.”
That said, Mike gives the overall nod to paragliding. “I paraglide most of the time because the gear is easier to transport and you can land in smaller areas,” he says. “Plus, being able to have a backup parachute on every flight is a safety bonus, too.”
In general, both will cost roughly the same for a quick experience while traveling. Expect to pay anywhere from $150-$300 for a 30-minute paraglide or hang gliding tour while you travel, depending on where you are. But if you’re thinking about buying your own gear and getting into the sport more seriously, hang gliding is more expensive.
Hang gliding equipment is heavier and more substantial, and usually more expensive. Photo: Valmedia/Shutterstock
You’ll pay about $4,000 for a paragliding gear set up and roughly $1,000 for training and a license. But a hang glider alone will cost about $4,000 for a new entry-level model, plus another $1,000 or so for the harness, plus $700(ish) for a backup chute, and probably $1,500-$2,000 for your licensing and training.
The bottom line is that both are fun, and if you’re just trying it out on vacation, getting into the air and soaring is the most important part. If you’re tight on time or just want to get a few fun photos, consider parasailing. Most beach resorts either offer parasailing in-house or can recommend a local operator, and you can go from beach chair to back again in under an hour.
Where to try hang gliding, paragliding, and parasailing in the USThe US has more than 60 hang gliding and paragliding clubs sanctioned by the U.S. Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association, so there’s no shortage of places to try either sport.
Where to go in the US
La Jolla’s cliffs make it a popular spot with hang gliders and paragliders. Photo: Danita Delimont/Shutterstock
In California, head to Torrey Pines State Park in La Jolla. The park has high bluffs that make it easy to get airborne over the Pacific Ocean (and over some very pricey real estate) and beach landings are easy and fun. It’s actually one of the oldest flight areas in America as it was the location of Charles Lindbergh’s maiden flight. The Torrey Pines Gliderport offers paragliding lessons starting under $200.
Even further west is Polipoli Flight Park, a popular launch site for paragliders in Hawaii. Maui’s Haleakalā Volcano dominates the island’s topography. And the summit, at 10,023 above sea level, is awe-inspiring from the air. The area around Polipoli is on the side of the island that gets less wine, so it’s flyable around 330 days a year. Go with Paraglide Maui (paragliding) or head across the island to launch from Hana Airport with Hang Gliding Maui.
Utah’s views and constant winds make for great flying. Photo: James Steidl/Shutterstock
Utah is also a great state for hang gliders and paragliders due to predictable daily winds. It’s a perfect spot for flyers to increase their flight hours, test equipment, and meet like-minded enthusiasts. Flight parks and facilities in Utah are well maintained; the state is well aware of the popularity of both sports. Because there are numerous options, it tends to be a bit more affordable. The Birdman Academy has lessons and introductory flights for both paragliding and hang gliding starting around $150.
If you’re looking for a more luxurious flight lesson, try Lookout Mountain Flight Park in Georgia. The landing zone includes a private swimming pool, volleyball court, creekside campground, fire pits, and a private clubhouse – just in case you need to relax your nerves a bit before or after your flight.
Lookout Mountain has more than 20 miles of ridges, which means plenty of steady thermal winds overlooking acres of farmland. The large landing zone is well maintained and the park caters to both hang gliders and paragliders, with courses, tandem flights, and gear rentals available. Summer usually offers the most reliable flight conditions.
Where to try hang gliding, paragliding, and parasailing internationally
Flying over Dragon’s Back in Hong Kong. Photo: Wan Kum Seong/Shutterstock
Whether you’re after views of mountains, beaches, valleys, or national parks, you’ll probably find it.
The words “silence” and “serene” don’t get used very often when referring to Hong Kong. But if you get the change to paraglide above the country, you’ll see that most of it is a vast nature reserve – and the scenery is magnificent.
According to Hong Kong Hike ‘N’ Fly owner (and pilot) Emil Kaminski, “Hong Kong is suitable [for paragliding] because of the easy access to some seriously big and scenic mountains, such as Dragon’s Back or Sunset Peak on Lantau (both of which are about 15 minutes from an MTR station), as well as year-round flying conditions.”
To have a truly unique hang gliding or paragliding experience in South America, consider trying it in Brazil. Because the country is blessed with miles of beaches and more greenery than almost anywhere else on the planet, you can count on scenic views.
Running off the launch platform on a hang glider in Rio. Photo: lazyllama/Shutterstock
Most hang gliding and paragliding tours leave from Tijuca National Park and land on São Conrado Beach, just down the road from Ipanema Beach. Along with being aloft beside the mountains and beaches, tandem flights in Brazil also glide over the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. You’ll find several outfits offering tours around Rio and the prices are fairly even for trying hang gliding vs paragliding.
Whether you choose paragliding or hang gliding, you can expect your flight to be a somewhat conflicting mix of extreme adrenaline and zen. Let’s call it ‘adrenalizen.” Though you may question what you got yourself into when it comes time to run off the cliff, when you get the signal, just run forward, wait for your wind to catch the wind, and feel the amazing feeling of hanging in the sky. It’s a view few get to experience.
Uber’s New Update Offers Ride Discounts for Putting Your Full Trip Itinerary Into the App
Uber just announced an update designed to put all of your travel information in one place so you never have to leave the Uber app.
Called Uber Travel, users can link their Gmail to the Uber app and have emailed reservations automatically entered. From there, all of your itinerary information related to getting from one place to the next is in one spot on the Uber app. Users can also easily reserve rides to airports based off the itinerary, of course, and can automatically reserve rides to and from airports. Users get 10 percent Uber Cash back for reserved rides that you make for each leg of the trip.
“We built Uber Travel to take the stress and guesswork out of the travel experience so you can spend more time dreaming about your trip and less time planning it,” Jen You, head of mobility product, said in a statement. “With a few taps, all of your upcoming reservations will be right in your Uber app — and as a busy summer travel season is around the corner, let Uber Travel make your trips as easy as possible.”
Photo: Uber
In the update, Uber also announced new features that make experiences more seamless. Groups can book party buses, coach buses, and limos with Uber Charter in the app that works just like other ride booking. Through UberEats, people at certain stadiums can also order food from their seat, get an alert when it’s ready, and pick it up instead of waiting in line. The app shows the food at the venue from closest to farthest depending on your section. This feature is currently only available at Yankee, Dodgers, and Angles stadiums, as well as Capital One Arena in DC, with more to come.
These new features come right as people are gearing up for a busy 2022 travel season — and it’s looking like this year could see less frantically switching between apps at each stop.
More like thisTravelSebastian Modak Talks 2022 Travel Trends and Seeing the WorldMay 13, 2022
The Best Mediterranean Island for Every Type of Traveler
There are thousands of islands in the Mediterranean. Greece holds 2,000 islands alone. Most have a few things in common: slow, sun-drenched summer days; cuisines that delight the tastebuds and nourish the soul; and the kind of cultural heritage that comes with belonging to a region that’s been coined the cradle of Western civilization. Yet each Mediterranean island is also distinct. From Italy’s most lavish getaway to Spain’s most romantic retreat, these are the best Mediterranean islands to visit for every type of traveler.
The best Mediterranean island for beach lovers: Sardinia, Italy
Photo: Elisa LocciShutterstock
Mediterranean beaches are many things, but sandy is not always one of them. That’s what makes Sardinia so special. Not only does it have the longest coastline of all the Mediterranean islands after Sicily, but its soft, pale shores could also pass for the Caribbean. Northern Sardinia’s 12-miles Costa Smeralda has some of the prettiest beaches — just ask the megayachters who populate its marinas. Down south, Costa Rei and Costa del Sud have their share of luxury hotels, too, but they’re generally less glitzy and more accessible from Cagliari, the Sardinian capital, whose own Poetto Beach is one of the longest and liveliest on the island.
The best Mediterranean island for remote workers: Cyprus
Photo: Fluieras Ana CristinaShutterstock
In October 2021, Cyprus introduced a digital nomad visa allowing 100 non-EU remote workers to live on the island for up to three years if extended after the first year. This past March, the total number of residence permits the nation’s council of ministers agreed to issue increased to 500. Many of the island’s digital nomads congregate in Paphos, where you’ll find both a UNESCO-listed necropolis from the fourth century BC and coworking spaces with at least 10 Mbps internet speeds. The cost of living in Cyprus is still relatively low compared to the majority of Europe, though it’s possible to splurge on fine dining, especially in Limassol. Factor in the Tiffany Blue Waters, pine-covered peaks, and a nuanced mix of Greek and Turkish Cypriot culture, and you’ll be ready to fill out that visa application yourself.
The best Mediterranean island for history buffs: Rhodes, Greece
Photo: KatvicShutterstock
Legend has it that Rhodes, the largest of Greece’s Dodecanese Islands, was gifted to the sun god Helios by Zeus. Ancient Rhodians took their Helios worship seriously, erecting a statue in his honor in 294 BCE that’s now considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Colossus of Rhodes was destroyed during an earthquake a few decades after it was completed, but the island has no shortage of intact historical sites. In fact, the entire Medieval City of Rhodes was designated a World Heritage Site in 1988. The list of landmarks you should probably see is long, but to get you started, beeline for the 14th-century Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, then hit the Acropolis of Lindos south of Rhodes city.
The best Mediterranean island for foodies: Sicily, Italy
Photo: Marcin KrzyzakShutterstock
Sicilian food is technically Italian food. In fact, some of the most popular Italian dishes served stateside are Sicilian staples — cannoli and arancini, are examples. But Sicily’s food scene is also distinctly its own, with influences ranging from Spanish and French to Greek and Arab — the island is roughly the same distance from Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, as it is from Rome, after all. Mount Etna’s volcanic soil has also enriched the crops and vines in northeastern Sicily since before the Roman Empire. Homestyle trattorias are the best venues to eat your way across the largest island in the Mediterranean, but if you’re so inclined, Sicily also has 16 Michelin-starred restaurants to choose from.
The best Mediterranean island for partiers: Hvar, Croatia
Photo: trabantosShutterstock
It took a while for Croatia’s wilder side to catch up to legendary Mediterranean nightlife destinations like Ibiza and Mykonos. Now, islands like Hvar and Pag are having a moment. While Pag’s annual Sonus electronic music festival gets famously down and dirty, Hvar has a reputation for being the nightlife epicenter of the Croatian islands, with options ranging from bougie to boogie down. For the bucket list experience, make sure to hit the Hula Hula Beach Bar at least once, or really go all out during Croatia’s Yacht Week.
The best Mediterranean island for luxury travelers: Capri, Italy
Photo: S-FShutterstock
Capri has been a jet-set haunt since Golden Age Hollywood stars like Audrey Hepburn and Brigitte Bardot graced its shores. Celebrities continue to dock their yachts in the Bay of Naples and flex their wallets in the designer boutiques and gourmet ristorantes that prop up the city center. Yet lavish as Capri can be, it also affords visitors the simple luxury of time. Whether you’re sipping limoncello cocktails in the Piazzetta, feasting on namesake dishes like Caprese salad and ravioli Caprese, riding the chairlift up Mount Solaro, or strolling through the Gardens of Augustus, Capri’s slow pace and sumptuous surrounds will make you feel like a million bucks. Just be prepared to spend as much if you plan on booking one of the island’s splurgiest hotels, which in the case of Punta Tragara can cost as much as $6,000 per night.
The best Mediterranean island for budget travelers: Vis, Croatia
Photo: Dreamer4787Shutterstock
In general, the cost of living in Croatia is favorable to budget travelers. Some islands, like swanky Hvar, have become more expensive as tourism has boomed. Others like Vis, which is the farthest island from the mainland, have remained quite affordable. The easiest way to reach Vis is by ferry from Split, Croatia’s second city, for about $7. On the island, hotels generally cost $50 to $100 per night while many of the top-rated Airbnbs cost $50 per night or less. Beaches are the big draw in Vis — hello, free entertainment — but the old town also has some relics of its ancient developments, there’s a glowing blue grotto you can boat through, and you can tour hidden bunkers and forts from the island’s days as a naval base.
The best Mediterranean island for scuba divers: Malta
Photo: Jellyman PhotographyShutterstock
Throughout history, Malta’s position in the heart of the Mediterranean made it a coveted and contested territory. Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Greeks, Arabs, Normans, French, Sicilians, and others have all their mark on the island, giving rise to its rich and complex cultural landscape today. Yet one of the best ways to get to explore Malta is underwater. The Maltese archipelago — whose three largest islands are Malta, Gozo, and Comino — plays host to more than 100 dive sites, from wrecks to walls to tunnels. Gozo’s 50-foot-deep Blue Hole is the most famous, offering a series of arched swim-throughs that are particularly thrilling on night dives.
The best Mediterranean island for solo travelers: Mallorca, Spain
Photo: Cristian Mircea BalateShutterstock
For some solo travelers, meeting people is a top priority. For others, it’s a fate worse than lost luggage. In Mallorca, you can be as social or reclusive as you want. Mallorca is a lot tamer than neighboring Ibiza — and less expensive — but it still gears up for a lively festival season every summer. Steer clear of the capital city Palma if you’re not looking to link up with strangers. Instead, head to villages like Estellencs and beaches like Cala Varques to escape the crowds. Spend your days hiking, biking, sea caving, cliff diving, and catamaran cruising. As for logistics, Mallorca has plenty of accommodations to fit every budget and one of the best bus systems in the Balearic Islands — although, if you can drive stick, winding around a Mediterranean coast in a rental car always makes for a memorable solo adventure.
The best Mediterranean island for families: Naxos, Greece
Photo: leoksShutterstock
The largest island in the Cyclades, an island group that includes Santorini and Mykonos, Naxos serves up the quintessential Greek island experience without the crowds or costs of neighboring destinations that have become popular stops for Mediterranean cruises. There are educational attractions like the ruins of Potara, an unfinished temple to Apollo, and several kid-friendly beaches, including Agios Georgios outside the capital city Chora if you have little ones and Plaka Beach if your kids are old enough to try windsurfing. Best of all, Naxos has its own airport, so you won’t have to worry about schlepping the whole family and all your things on a long ferry from Athens — though it’s also close enough to the other Cyclades to plan day trips if you want.
The best Mediterranean island for couples: Formentera, Spain
Photo: lunamarinaShutterstock
Santorini is often marketed as the most romantic island in the Mediterranean, but sharing an intimate setting with throngs of other couples is a quick way to kill the mood. The smallest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Formentera has no such problem. That Formentera has been overshadowed by sister isle Ibiza and is only accessible by boat has allowed it to maintain a ruggedness that’s seductive in its simplicity. The beaches here are said to be some of the finest around — most famously Ses Illetes, Migjorn, and Llevant — and they’re populated with enough restaurants and bars to fill a vacation’s worth of date nights. You’ll even see a few beach clubs, but rest assured that the vibe is more siesta than Tiësto. Formentera also has lots of spa hotels, so plan on getting at least one couples massage.
The best Mediterranean island for hikers: Corsica, France
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At roughly 3,400 square miles, Corsica is the Mediterranean’s fourth-largest island. About half of it belongs to a regional nature park that’s crisscrossed by hiking trails, including the GR20 footpath that runs north-south for 112 mountainous miles. The hut-to-hut hike has been called Europe’s toughest long-distance trek, on average taking between one and two weeks to complete, but it can also be split in half from Calenzana to Vizzavona and Vizzavona to Conca. June through October is the ideal time to tackle the trail although July and August can get busy. If you want to treat yourself to a beach vacation after scaling Corsica’s peaky spine, shoot for June when the average temperature hovers around the mid-70s.
The best Mediterranean island for wellness retreaters: Ischia, Italy
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The volcanic island of Ischia shares the Bay of Naples with Capri but only sees a fraction of its sister island’s tourism. This alone makes it a good candidate for a relaxing retreat, but it’s Ischia’s thermal spas that have made it a wellness destination since the days of ancient Rome. Many of the island’s hotels revolve around its thermal pools while other spas — including Sorgeto, Poseidon, and Negombo — are designed for day use. Other body and skin treatments, from massages to mud baths, are generally available as well. On the rare occasions, you’re not soaking in Ischia’s healing mineral waters, spend your downtime strolling around its many public gardens, then track down the island’s handful of vegan restaurants for light, healthful meals.
The best Mediterranean island for LGBTQ travelers: Mykonos, Greece
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As far as amazing LGBTQ destinations go, Mykonos is up there with Provincetown, Fire Island, and San Francisco. It tends to attract an epicurean crowd to the island’s numerous gay bars, clubs, and hotels. LGBTQ travelers have reported feeling safe and welcome in Mykonos, but visitorship in LGBTQ spaces skews decidedly male. For gay women, Lesbos, the birthplace of the ancient poet Sappho from where the term lesbian derives, is a popular alternative. Both islands host LGBTQ-leaning events that you may want to plan your trips around, such as the Xlsior festival in Mykonos and International Eressos Women’s Festival in Lesbos.
The best Mediterranean island for nature lovers: Mljet, Croatia
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Mljet is as pristine as an Adriatic island gets, in large part because 5,400 of its forested acres are protected as one of Croatia’s eight national parks. Tourism is light in Mljet, largely centering on the fishing village of Pomena where only about 50 people live year-round. There’s one main hotel there, Hotel Odisej Mljet, but if you’re coming for a nature escape, you can pitch a tent at a number of campgrounds for less than $10 per night. When you’re not hiking through Mljet National Park, cycling around its saltwater lakes, or touring them by kayak, pop by the cave where locals believe the Odysseus of myth was once shipwrecked.
Best museums in Chicago
Chicago is home to more than 60 museums, a veritable playland for the culturally inclined. But with so many offerings, it’s not easy to choose which cultural institution is a must-see and which one is a pass. From museums the kids will love to art-focused venues that will satisfy the connoisseurs among you, we have selected seven of the best museums in Chicago so you can plan your visit without feeling like you’re missing out on anything. And if it’s free museums in Chicago you’re after, we’ve got you covered too in this solid guide.
Best museums in Chicago for familiesThe best museums in Chicago for art aficionadosThe best museums in Chicago for history loversBest museums in Chicago for familiesThe Museum of Science and Industry
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Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry is the largest science museum in the western hemisphere with more than 14 acres of exhibit space. There’s so much to see at this museum that if you want to spend the day there, you’d better plan it in advance with Matador Network‘s guide to the Museum of Science and Industry . Here’s a mix of some of the great things you can do at MSI:
Board an actual U-505 German submarine from World War II — all 252 feet of the hulking metal vessel is dramatically housed in an underground wing of its own.Step inside a 40-foot indoor tornado as gusts of air and vapor swirl around you — Science Storms shows you all the forces of nature with lightning, fire, and tsunamis in action.Maneuver through a geometric mirror maze in Numbers in Nature. Snap some trippy photos — just don’t walk into a wall.Sync your pulse with the Giant Heart and take the human-sized hamster wheel for a spin in YOU! The Experience.There’s more — baby chicks, a giant pinball machine, a coal mine, a fairy castle, trains, etc. And that’s not including the temporary exhibits touring at MSI.
Eat like a local: Skip the museum cafeteria. Instead, head into the Hyde Park neighborhood for lunch or dinner.
Address: 5700 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637, US
Hours of operation: Daily 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Cost: $21.95 for adults / $12.95 for children from age three to 11. Additional fees are required to participate in particular experiences or to access temporary exhibitions.
The Shedd Aquarium
Photo: Nejdet Duzen/Shutterstock and Sidhu50/Shutterstock
Some 32,000 animals make their home at the Shedd Aquarium, including belugas, dolphins, penguins, and playful sea otters. Catch a show and head into the underwater viewing areas for more close-ups. This is one of the most popular museums in Chicago so do not expect to be the only visitor — no matter the day of the week or the time of day. But the focus of the aquarium on education, conservation, and sustainability makes the lines and crowds well worth the hassle.
Water taxi: If it’s nice out, hop in a Shoreline Water Taxi to get to the Shedd Aquarium (and all of Museum Campus) from downtown — it’s fun and the views are top-notch.
Address: 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60605, US
Hours of operation: Weekdays 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (6 PM in the summer); Weekends 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Cost: $39.95 adults / $29.95 children. 50 percent discount for Chicago residents. Advance tickets are required.
The Field Museum
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This Chicago museum has over 480,000 square feet of exhibition space dedicated to nearly 40 million artifacts and specimens. Also big at The Field Museum is Máximo the Titanosaur, the largest dinosaur discovered to date at 122 feet in length and 28 feet in height. Máximo the Titanosaur is visible in Stanley Field Hall. Two more giant dinosaurs can be seen at the Field Museum: Sue, another Tyrannosaurus rex, lives in the Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet, along with a Daspletosaurus nicknamed Gorgeous George.
Make like a curious scientist and explore the themed galleries. In the crowd favorite, you can descend into a replica of an ancient Egyptian tomb. There is also a whole collection of rare jewels, and other exhibits like the Hall of Birds where you can see 530,000 specimens, representing 90 percent of the world’s known bird species.
Fuel up: The Field Bistro has a great selection of food to satisfy the whole family in between galleries.
Address: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, US
Hours of operation: Daily 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Cost: $27 for adults. Additional fees are required to access ticketed exhibitions and view 3D movies. Ticket discounts are available for children, students, and senior visitors.
The best museums in Chicago for art aficionadosThe Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
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This is where the cool kids hang out. The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago — better known as the MCA — is a triple threat. There’s a constant rotation of thought-provoking works and artist retrospectives in the galleries; a cutting-edge mix of dance, music, and theater on the stage; and a menu of seasonal cuisine from a top Chicago chef in Marisol, the beautiful on-site restaurant. If you can visit in the warm-weather months, alfresco concerts and outdoor installations add to the mix.
Merch: The MCA Store has a great selection of unique finds and limited-edition prints. Gifts and gadgets, books and cards, jewelry and toys, etc. all items are focused on design and contemporary art, often with an equal dose of quirkiness and good humor.
Address: 220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, US
Hours of operation: Wednesday to Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM; Tuesday 10 AM to 9 PM
Cost: Suggested donation of $15 adults / $8 students, teachers, and seniors. Free for children under 18 years of age.
The Art Institute of Chicago
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Relive your Ferris Bueller fantasies at the Art Institute of Chicago. Highlights from the museum’s permanent collection of 300,000 works of art include Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks, Van Gogh’s The Bedroom, Diego Rivera’s Weaving, Monet’s Water Lilies, and many more iconic works of art. You can be surrounded by works by Monet one minute, then turn a corner and come face to face with one of Warhol’s pop art portraits or Picasso’s masterpieces. Spot the major pieces and big-name artists, or wander the galleries until you get lost. It’s all part of the fun.
Cheap eats: Food trucks park along Michigan Avenue and Monroe Street, just outside the museum’s Modern Wing entrance. Note that all the museum cafés and restaurants are currently closed.
Address: 111 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60603, US
Hours of operation: Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 11 AM to 5 PM
Cost: $25 adults / $19 seniors, students, and teens / Free for children under age 13. Advance ticket purchase is required.
The best museums in Chicago for history loversChicago History Museum
Photo: Thomas Barrat/Shutterstock
When so many of the big Chicago museums swell with crowds, the Chicago History Museum keeps things low key. This is the perfect spot for catching up on all the chapters of city history, like the Great Chicago Fire in 1871 and the World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893. Dioramas have a retro appeal, while hands-on galleries are geared towards kids. Souvenir shopping is great at the museum store.
Post-museum visit tip: A short visit is all you need, and you should follow it up with a trip to other neighborhood attractions like North Avenue Beach, or pair it with food, drinks, and exceptional park views at The J. Parker rooftop.
Address: 1601 N Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60614, US
Hours of operation: Tuesday 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM; Wednesday to Saturday 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM; Sunday 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Cost: $19 adults / $17 students and seniors / Free for children under the age of 18. Prospective visitors are encouraged to buy their tickets online in advance, but discounts can only be applied to those who purchase their tickets in person.
DuSable Museum of African American HistoryVoir cette publication sur InstagramUne publication partagée par Chelsea (@chigirlabouttown)
The DuSable Museum of African American History is the US’s oldest independent African American Museum. Inside the museum, visitors find exhibits showcasing the role of African Americans in major events throughout US history, along with exhibits honoring American heroes who have fought for equality. The museums displays more than 15,000 pieces, including paintings, sculpture, print, and more.
South Side explorations: DuSable is part of Museum Campus South where you can also tour Frederick C. Robie House, a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed house, and visit the Smart Museum of Art.
Address: 740 E 56th Pl, Chicago, IL 60637, US
Hours of operation: Wednesday to Sunday 11 AM to 4 PM
Cost: $14.50 adults / $11 students and seniors / $5 for children from age six to 11.
The 5 Best Tropical Caribbean Cocktails Other Than the Piña Colada
Many bartenders across the Caribbean almost unanimously agree on one thing – while the piña colada embodies the overall spirit of the Caribbean, the drink is not a true representation of what each island has to offer. Tropical cocktails can be so much more than slushie, super sweet dessert-like drinks.
“The piña colada was created in the Caribbean by a bartender in San Juan, Puerto Rico,” explains Rajiv Johnson, bartender at Sandals Montego Bay. While Puerto Rico of course makes up a portion of the Caribbean’s chain of islands, limiting the nuances of each island’s flavors and cocktail culture to one drink comes off as close-minded. “Of course, guests continue to love these classic flavors, but we [prefer] to enhance them,” Johnson says.
Dario Brown, bartender at Sandals Barbados, echoes Johnson’s perspective: “Caribbean cocktails are [associated with] being colorful, that is, pretty blues, greens, and reds, but that was back in the day,” he says, adding that now, many guests enjoy savoring more handcrafted cocktails.
At his signature Sky Bar, Brown has offerings that include smoked cocktails, cocktails featuring flavor infusions, and other innovations.
“I started out making a lot of strawberry cocktails, but we don’t grow those here in Barbados – since every tourist gets strawberries at home, I wanted to give them something more Barbadian [and] Caribbean,” he says.
For Brown, this looked like focusing on local Barbadian produce, including golden apple, mango, dounce, and other herbs, stating that while pineapple (featured in the piña colada) can grow in Barbados, it generally doesn’t.
“Recently, the bartenders in Barbados and in the Caribbean have been broadening their scopes,” he says, crediting the influx of international visitors (and palates), as well as the presence of international cocktail competitions as the reasons for exploring beyond the stereotypical cocktail menus. Brown notes that local bartenders’ leveling up tactics have included incorporating local flavors and understanding cocktail history. Additionally, using ingredients like Cointreau and kombucha, is a great way to obtain sweet and sour flavors beyond using simple syrup and lime.
Brown also notes the Caribbean is at an advantage because the island has so many natural flavors and resources at their disposal.
“We don’t have to go out and buy things – in fact, I grow most of my produce in my yard,” he says. Brown cultivates scotch bonnets, cucumbers, mint, and other types of produce in his home garden, which he uses to experiment in fresh cocktail creations.
Back at the Sandals Montego Bay, Rajiv Johnson notes that what stereotypical island cocktails get wrong is that the Caribbean is not frozen in time.
“We move forward and grow with the times,” he says. “It’s about growing while still giving guests a drink that tastes like vacation.”
Dario Brown, meanwhile, believes that over the next 15 years, Barbados — as well as other Caribbean islands — will be “a force to be reckoned with” in terms of cocktail creations on an international level.
Curious about a taste of Caribbean cocktail culture? To get the inside scoop on the tropical cocktails to try that aren’t the piña colada, Matador Network spoke with Sandals Resorts bartenders from all over the Caribbean. Here are five tropical cocktails that will quench your thirst, that you can find in Antigua, Saint Lucia, and more.
5 tropical cocktails to try in the CaribbeanJamaica
Photo: Sandals Resorts
Rather than whipping up piña coladas, Rajiv Johnson, bartender at Sandals Montego Bay, enjoys serving Caribbean-inspired riffs on classic cocktails; take the Caribbean mule, for example.
“The signature flavors of Jamaica come from our local ingredients – pineapple, mint, and lime,” he says, noting that the country’s signature spirits are Wray and Nephew (a white rum), Kingston 62 Gold, and Appleton Rum. “We take the classic favorites and add special new twists,” he says.
Signature flavors: Pineapple, mint, lime
What to try: Caribbean mule – Kingston 62 Gold Rum, ginger beer, pineapple purée, lime juice, simple syrup
AntiguaNatillea Johnson of Sandals Grande Antigua feels that while the piña colada can do a passable job representing the Caribbean, there are other signature spirits and flavors to be discovered.
“Our signature spirits are English Harbour and Cavalier Rum,” she says, noting that Antiguans also love white rums distilled in various flavors, including banana, lemon, lime, and pineapple.
Johnson created the Pineapple Sunrise with the spirit of the island in mind, as she feels that the drink perfectly embodies local flavors and produce. “It’s best enjoyed with views of the Caribbean sea and ocean breeze,” she says.
Signature flavors: Banana, lemon, lime, pineapple
What to try: Pineapple Sunrise – White Appleton Rum, crème de banana, melon liqueur, pineapple juice, grenadine
Bahamas
Photo: Sandals Resorts
Donovan Victor of Sandal’s Royal Bahamian location explains that the island’s signature flavors are guava, banana, and pineapple – not the stereotypical coconut found in the piña colada.
“The recipe is quite simple and that’s what makes it so crisp and fresh – vodka, lemon, guava purée, and sparkling wine,” he says, describing the flavor of Guava as uniquely Caribbean. “It’s just the right amount of sweet,” he reveals.
Signature flavors: Guava, banana, pineapple
What to try: Guava Bubble – vodka, lemon, guava puree, and sparkling wine
BarbadosBrown notes that while stereotypical Caribbean cocktail classics are delicious, the innovation surrounding mixology in the region is growing day by day.
“We are constantly pushing ourselves out of the box to craft drinks with new flavors and unexpected spirits,” he says. “If you want a piña colada, we’ll serve you the best piña colada you’ve ever had – but if you want to try something new, I’ll serve up a drink infused with scotch bonnet peppers or cucumber.”
Signature flavors: Golden apple, mango, dounce
What to try: A custom cocktail with scotch bonnet peppers
Saint Lucia
Photo: Sandals Resorts
Although Chrisy Chandler of Sandals Grande St. Lucian believes that piña coladas and strawberry daiquiris are authentic to the Caribbean—and timeless choices, too—she, like Johnson, prefers adding unexpected twists to classic cocktails.
“Rum is universally Caribbean, but each island adds their own twist to it,” she says. “In St. Lucia, our choice is Chairman’s Rum, and our signature cocktails embody the best of the local produce. Le’Mango is a total island vibe – it’s St. Lucia in a glass.”
Signature flavors: Mango
What to try: Le’Mango – Chairman’s Rum, mango purée, peach schnapps, lemon juice, and simple syrup
How To Make the Most of St. Bart’s, the Caribbean’s Luxurious Celebrity Playground
Ending any statement with the words “in St. Bart’s” immediately makes life sound much more appealing and less mundane.
“How was your summer, Jim?”
“Oh fine, I spent it cleaning sewers and mining salt…in St. Bart’s.”
“Ooooh…St Bart’s! Look at you!”
The island has an exclusive allure, yes, but many wouldn’t know much about it outside of its occasional mention in pop music lyrics. So, it remains a mysterious oasis of sorts. Picture Puerto Rico, and you’ll conjure up images of grand colonial architecture and salsa dancing until dawn. Say “Turks and Caicos,” and your mind is a wash of turquoise crisp, blue water, and pink sandy beaches.
St. Bart’s? You probably imagine rich, beautiful people letting loose in thousand-dollar flip flops and designer insect repellant. Otherwise, it might as well be on the moon.
But when you venture beyond the beach clubs and Rosé-all-day, you’ll find an island with stunning natural wonders and very unexpected history. It has gone from desert wasteland to an elite playground in barely half a century. But more than that, you’ll find an island that’s unlike any in the Caribbean, both in its European ambiance and rugged arid terrain.
St. Bart’s wasn’t always the see-and-be-seen capital of the Caribbean. Quite the contrary. Compared to its lush, tropical neighbors St. Kitts and St. Maarten, St. Bart’s is a desert–a pile of brown rocks and cacti with nary an animal and no natural sources of water.
It was a sitting block of island land for much of its history. Allegedly, first “discovered” by Columbus and allegedly named for his brother Bartolomeo, nobody bothered living on St. Barth’s until France sent a handful of hearty colonists in the late 17th century. They thought so little of the place and in 1785 France traded it to Sweden in exchange for some warehouse space in Gothenburg.
The Swedes made St. Bart’s into a free port, beginning its long tradition as a tax haven. The duty-free trading post quickly brought commerce and construction and with it the thriving little town of Gustavia, named after Swedish King Gustav.
Eventually, the island was ceded back to France in 1878. Life on the island was hard–it lacked electricity until the 1960s, and water came from communal cisterns until 1972 when it opened its first desalination plant. Its first fully operational power plant opened in the 1980s.
Over the next few decades, the island attracted the world’s elite, many drawn by St. Bart’s tax-free status as a French overseas territory. Celebrities followed, and Jimmy Buffett became a mainstay. Expensive restaurants and retailers filled the streets, and today the short flight from St. Maarten feels like a 15-minute trip to the French Riviera. It’s the cleanest, fanciest, and most efficient island in the Caribbean. And you’ll notice it as soon as you pull into the capital city of Gustavia.
Transport yourself to Europe, a couple of hours from AmericaGustavia is a seaside red-roofed hamlet that serves as St. Bart’s capital city. The narrow streets are lined with classical French and Swedish architecture, with tiny cars and mopeds lurching through its steep hills and waterfront thoroughfares.
Many of the city’s historic buildings are adorned with numbers and historic plaques, explaining each building’s role in the island’s history. Some of these homes now house Gustavia’s handful of museums, like the Dinzey House. The 1800s merchant home serves as the city’s historic museum, where you’ll learn exactly how awful St. Bart’s was before it got running water and air conditioning.
Photo: Joe Benning/Shutterstock
Just down the street sits the Wall House Museum, a two-story stone structure that hosts rotating art showcases downstairs and the island library upstairs. Ask anyone in St. Bart’s about the history of the Wall House, and their answer will be something like, “Nobody knows, it just showed up on old records at some point.” A vague and secretive answer that seems quintessentially St. Bart’s.
If you’re up for some walking, climb to the vistas atop the ruins of Ft. Karl. The former Swedish sentinel has been reduced to foundations now, but still boasts spectacular views over Shell Beach, and out to Saba, St. Eustatius, and St. Kitts in the distance.
The best place for people-watching in town is Le Select, which passes for a funky dive bar on this island of opulence. St. Bart’s oldest bar is said to have inspired Jimmy Buffett’s “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” and sits at the main pedestrian intersection of the city. You’ll spot off-work yachties and dive instructors sipping cheap beers next to the people who own the yachts, creating what may be the one place on the island that feels devoid of pretense.
Hiking through the desert to a washing machine and secluded beachThough St. Bart doesn’t have the tropical jungles or verdant foliage of some of its volcanic neighbors, hiking here is breathtaking in its own right.
The island’s quintessential hike is the trek to Grand Fond, which takes you across a rocky beach to a desert mountain that’s lined with crashing waves. There’s no shade, but other than that, the half-hour-or-so-jaunt isn’t especially difficult. After traversing the mountainside, you’ll arrive at a couple of inviting natural pools only a short walk down from the path. The clear, turquoise water beckons you from below, and cooling off in the calmer of the two pools is a welcomed endpoint.
Photo: Christian Graugart/Shutterstock
The second pool, however, has been deemed “the washing machine,” where waves shoot up over limestone rocks and crash down over unsuspecting bathers. It’ll knock you around if you don’t brace yourself properly, and always be sure to hold on to your sunglasses.
For a gentler hike-to-water experience, head to the far west end of the island to Colombier Beach. This secluded stretch of sand is only accessible by foot and by boat, with two trails leading to the shoreline.
The first is far more scenic–and more challenging–as you begin at a panoramic viewpoint and descend to the beach. You’ll pass through the dry forest and its resident mountain goats for about half an hour until reaching the sand. While it may tempt you to pop a few beers at sunset, remember the half-hour climb back up is considerably harder.
For those seeking an easier journey, park at Petite Anse Beach–closer to the water–and follow the dirt path around the northern side of the island. This far-flatter route takes you through sea caves, past turtles, and mountain goats, with the Caribbean Sea lapping the shore in front of you. The walk takes a little longer–closer to 40 minutes each way–but is far more leisurely.
The best hike on the island, though, is the walk around Le Toiny. It starts at a swanky club on Toiny Beach, of course, then ascends around an elevated point jutting out into the sea. Sweeping views of golden desert contrasting with aquamarine water follow you for nearly two hours as you hike up to two of the highest points on St. Bart. The culmination is a windswept view over Toiny Beach to one side and the emerald waves of Grande Cul-de-sac beach to the other. The end of the hike takes you through a mysteriously abandoned luxury home development, though in true St. Bart’s style, nobody can tell you what it is or why it’s there.
Shipwrecks as artSt. Bart’s National Marine Park sits just a five-minute boat ride from the harbor in Gustavia, preserving some of the most convenient dive sites in the Caribbean. The most obvious is le pain de sucre–or “the sugar loaf”–a massive rock at the entrance to the harbor. This 30-foot dive is a typical reef excursion, where you’ll spot grouper, stingrays, and the occasional turtle.
Photo: Naeblys/Shutterstock
St. Bart’s history is also rich in wrecks and the luxury yacht that did not live up to its name, “Nonstop”, sank during Hurricane Hugo. Though the backstory is alluring, the yacht is upside down now and isn’t much more than a hull in the ocean.
The best wreck is the Kayali, a trawler that’s been submerged for nearly 30 years and now teems with marine life. Hurricane Irma knocked the wreck around back in 2017, and now it looks more like an abstract artist’s idea of what a sunken ship should look like, with large gears scattered throughout lopsided pieces of the hull and a coral-covered mast. It’s got plenty of swim-throughs and the most abundant life of any site near the island. Serial Divers has single-tank dives to both sites, leaving right from Gustavia.
Where to stay, what to eat, and how to get to St. Bart’sGetting to St. Bart’s isn’t as difficult for the yachtless as one might think, as you’ll find a few flights an hour leaving from St. Maarten, which has nonstop options to Miami/Ft. Lauderdale, Charlotte, New York City, and other U.S. hubs. The 15-minute flight is scenic but prepare yourself for the hard bank and quickly drop into St. Barth’s airport.
Once you’re there, renting a car is almost always the move, as taxis are, to put it nicely, a racket. Rent the smallest car you can because they’re reasonably priced at around $100 dollars for a weekend and, in addition, the streets in St. Bart’s are borderline claustrophobic.
If you want to explore the island, stay at Hotel Barriere le Carl Gustav in Gustavia. It’s far from the most expensive hotel and easily the best located, within walking distance to all of Gustavia and only about 20 minutes from anything on the island.
It boasts private bungalows on a hillside overlooking the harbor, each with its own plunge pool and aqua bike. Breakfasts of fresh French pastries and coffee are included, and available at the restaurant or to indulge in your room. The bar brings panoramic views of the city and perfume-infused cocktails, and the almost-instant valet allows you to hop in your car and go on a whim. If you are looking for a luxe beach club experience, the hotel has an arrangement with the nearby Shellona Beach Club on Shell Beach for its guests.
Not that St. Bart’s is ever a discount destination, but if you’re not trying to drop your entire budget on your hotel, opt for the Pearl Beach. By St. Bart’s standards, it’s a bargain and offers front row seats to the hair-raising landings at the airport. You’ll need to drive to get into Gustavia or to do pretty much anything, but it’s also centrally located so none of your drives will be far.
Prepare to drop a couple of hundred dollars on dinners, but you’ll get the most for your money at Le Tamarin. The garden of twinkling lights is an oasis of banana plants and water features which make the experience like eating in your neighbor’s perfectly appointed backyard. The menu is a mix of Caribbean and French, with stuff like Snake River Wagyu Steak with chimichurri sauce, and lobster with Caribbean melon and buttercream.
That said, you can eat cheaply at Le Select, where the original cheeseburger in paradise runs about 10 US dollars. A block away, the Creperie offers a strong mix of sweet and savory crepes, alongside healthy sandwiches and wraps for about 20 dollars. It’s a good go-to if you’re trying to avoid sticker shock dining.
Photo: Leonard Zhukovsky/Shutterstock
Make no mistake, St. Bart’s is still the playground of the well-to-do, and the primary aim of most visitors here is to tell other rich people they’re in St. Bart’s. But if you’ve got a few bucks and you want more out of your trip than Rosé and live sax players on the beach, the island still comes through. St. Barth’s can be an enriching experience in both history and nature. And no matter what you end up doing, it will always sound fancy.
May 12, 2022
The 25 Best Hotels in the World, According To Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards
There are plenty of reasons to get excited about an upcoming vacation. It might be the picturesque views that get you excited, the cuisine you’ll get to try, or the excursions you’ll get to do. But some people get just as excited about the hotel as they do about the destination. And that’s especially the case when the hotel is a destination in and of itself. Tripadvisor released its 2022 Best of the Best Traveler’s Choice Awards for the top 25 hotels in the world. And not a single one is in the United States.
The third best hotel in the world is Ikos Aria in Kefalos, Greece. With 1,356 reviews averaging five stars across the board, this five-star, all-inclusive resort has restaurants with menus designed by chefs who’ve run Michelin star restaurants, spa access, and plenty of entertainment options.
The second best hotel is the Hotel Colline de France in Gramado, Brazil. If you’re looking to head to South America, this hotel averages a five-star rating across 2,397 reviews. The hotel has 34 suites on the property, and prides itself on its luxurious interior and exterior with an impeccable staff.
The number one hotel on Tripadvisor is the Tulemar Bungalows & Villas in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. Averaging five stars over 4,728 reviews, this Central American hotel is on a 33 acre piece of jungle with amazing views of the Pacific and a path that leads all the way down to a private beach. With several different types of bungalows and villas, including some exclusively for couples, this resort offers the best of the best.
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.
TripAdvisor’s 25 best hotels in the worldTulemar Bungalows & Villas in Manuel Antonio, Costa RicaHotel Colline de France in Gramado, BrazilIkos Aria in Kefalos, GreeceRomance Istanbul Hotel in Istanbul, TurkeyTHE OMNIA in Zermatt, SwitzerlandKayakapi Premium Caves – Cappadocia in Urgup, TurkeySix Senses Laamu on Olhuveli Island, MaldivesHamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort in Hopkins, BelizePadma Resort Ubud in Payangan, IndonesiaBLESS Hotel Madrid in Madrid, SpainIkos Dassia in Dassia, GreecePimalai Resort and Spa in Ko Lanta, Krabi ProvinceLotte Hotel Hanoi in Hanoi, VietnamCOMO Cocoa Island in Cocoa Island, MaldivesLa Maison Favart in Paris, FranceSukhumvit Park, Bangkok – Marriott Executive Apartments in Bangkok, ThailandQuinta Jardins do Lago in Funchal, PortugalLa Maison Arabe in Marrakech, MoroccoThe Royal Purnama in Sukawati, IndonesiaJaya House River Park in Siem Reap, CambodiaThe Hazelton Hotel in Toronto, OntarioRound Hill Hotel and Villas in Hopewell, JamaicaSaraye Ameriha Boutique Hotel in Kashan, IranBucuti & Tara Beach Resort Aruba in Palm – Eagle Beach, ArubaThe Oberoi Beach Resort Sahl Hasheesh in Hurghada, EgyptTravelers’ Choice Best of the Best is the site’s highest honor. To find the best of the best, Tripadvisor takes into account the quality and quantity of traveler reviews and ratings to find the top 1 percent of listings on Tripadvisor. Travelers’ Choice winners use reviews and ratings posted on Tripadvisor over 12 months, as well as an additional editorial process. To be eligible, the hotel must have been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12 months, must receive a threshold number of reviews within those 12 months, and must maintain or exceed a minimum bubble rating on Tripadvisor.
You might have to put down a pretty penny for this type of luxury, but if the reviews are anything to go by, it’s definitely worth it.
The 7 Best Beaches for Clamming in Washington State
Spring, fall, or winter, icy rain, wind, or even the occasional and much longed for sunshine — whatever nature brings there are families armed with shovels who flock to Washington’s hard-packed, wet-sand beaches in bucket hats and galoshes to go clamming. And these mollusk enthusiasts know that the best beaches for clamming (and the many other types of seafood that Washingtonians love) are scattered all over the state, often nestled within expansive state parks.
Clamming is a surprisingly easy endeavor, unlike salmon fishing in Washington state, which takes more practice. That’s a big part of what makes it such an ideal activity for the whole family – little ones included (though they are likely to have more fun running down the beach and playing in the waves).
Photo: knelson20/Shutterstock
You need to arrive at low tide, armed with just three tools: a shovel or a clam gun, a bucket or other container in which to store your clams, and your clamming license, which you can learn more about purchasing here.
Clamming season passes quickly, so it’s important to check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife frequently for updates. The website posts the allotted days when clamming is allowed, as well as the clam limit per person. For instance, spring razor clamming season (which ran from April 29 to May 7) was just nine days long, and participants could take home 20 clams (and you have to keep the first 20 clams you find). Don’t fret though: There’s always another season not too far away.
In the fall and winter, people tend to head to beaches for clamming at night when the tide is low, but you’ll need a heavy raincoat, a flashlight, and cold weather gear. The beaches are open for clamming from 12:00 AM to 11:59 AM the following day, so you’ll also see some early birds heading onto the sand at 4:00 AM.
Photo: knelson20/Shutterstock
While you can start digging haphazardly on the beach, there are some very subtle signs you can look for: Experts recommend arriving two hours before peak low tide. You’ll want to look for those telltale, dime-sized dimples in the sand that indicate a clam’s siphon is just below the surface. They can also surface when the clammer smacks the surface of the sand with the handle of their shovel (the WDFW provides instructions on how to dig for clams once you identify where they are burrowed).
Clams can be found on what the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife calls “intertidal coastal beaches” – beaches that are almost completely exposed at low tide. Pacific razor clams are the most popular and widespread type of clam in Washington, but you can also find Manila, littleneck, butter, and horse clams, among others, as well as the iconic geoduck – a saltwater clam that is so massive its shell isn’t big enough to enclose its entire body.
The WDFW created a map outlining the seven beaches open seasonally for razor clam digging, but there are windswept and salty beaches throughout the Pacific Northwest where all sorts of clam beds lay waiting for your shovel.
The best beaches for clamming in WashingtonPotlatch State Park
Photo: SNC Art and More/Shutterstock
Butter clams are the most prevalent variety of clam at Potlatch State Park, but experts say you can also dig for Manila and littleneck clams here. The rocky beach requires sturdy footwear and a strong arm – you’ll likely be digging for clams through both sand and gravel. Oyster beds are located near the highway, according to the WDFW.
DuckabushOpen from May 1 through October 31 for clam and oyster harvesting, Duckabush is especially abundant with Manila clams, sometimes also called steamers by experienced clammers (littleneck clams can also be found here, but are not as common). Duckabush is an expansive beach, so be forewarned that searching for clams here takes time and patience. Located on the Olympic Peninsula, about a four hour drive from Seattle, the rocky, muddy beaches of Duckabush will get your hands dirty but fill up your clam bucket.
Dosewallips State Park
Photo: John T Callery/Shutterstock
Less than 13 miles away from Duckabush is Dosewallips State Park, another one of the most popular beaches for clamming. Here you’ll find more Manila clams, and it’s also a popular spot for digging up geoducks, which the WDFW specifies can be found at “low intertidal zones.” While you’re at it, you might also harvest oysters at Dosewallips, which are plentiful here.
Birch Bay State Park
Photo: Lijuan Guo/Shutterstock
People like to go clamming at Birch Bay because parking is so close to the beach you can step out of your car and be digging for clams within minutes. The shallow waters make it easy to find Manila, butter, and horse clams. Oysters can be found here, too – though they aren’t quite as abundant as on other beaches on this list.
Oak Bay ParkButter clams and Manila clams are the most abundant at Oak Bay, but you can find littleneck clams here as well. There’s a lagoon in the park that regulars to the area say kids like to play in, so families are likely to flock here. There’s also a campground nearby.
Wolfe Property State ParkThere are few signs that will direct you to this beach, making it somewhat of a hidden gem, though locals know it well as one the best beaches for clamming in Washington. Like most other Pacific Northwest beaches, this one is rocky and cold but majestic. You might find this one a little less crowded than the more popular clamming beaches in the state. Littleneck and Manila clams are common here — there’s a planted clam area specified on this WDFW map where clammers are advised to dig.
Twanoh State Park
Photo: Checubus/Shutterstock
Located at the tip of Hood Canal just an hour and a half drive from Seattle, Twanoh State Park is one of the most family-friendly and versatile parks in the country. In the summer, a swimming area opens, and there are restrooms, a boat ramp, and camping on-site. As for clamming, you’ll find a wide variety here, including Manila, littleneck clams, butter clams, and cockles, just below the oyster beds. If you’re planning to hunt for oysters here, be aware that you are required to shuck the oysters on the beach, as the discarded shells form beds for new young oysters.
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