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What It’s Like To Eat at Iceland’s Hotel Flatey, One of the Most Remote Restaurants in the World

When a thick fog rolls in off the ocean, it first swallows up the orange lighthouse overlooking the sleepy fishing village of Stykkishólmur, in Iceland. The fog then moves inland, blanketing the few restaurants and shops within walking distance of the village’s marina. That alone would be reason for visiting the beautiful town, but the location’s port is also a launching point to a remote, serene, and almost totally isolated island destination: Flatey. And once you get there, if you can navigate a series of voyages and rental cars, the first thing you should do – even before greeting the sheep and wandering the pristine coastline – is sit down for a meal at the Hotel Flatey.

I traveled to Stykkishólmur with my partner, who was eager to catch up with an old friend she had lived with while working in Colombia. Stykkishólmur lies on the northern coast of the Snaefellsnes peninsula. The town’s port is full of fishing boats that supply two fantastic restaurants that are within thirty seconds of walking distance from each other. It’s a beautiful and peaceful escape from the frantic way of life found in cities around the globe.

The first thing to know about getting to Stykkishólmur (especially if you plan on eventually traveling to Flatey) is that you must book a rental car in advance. Driving is the simplest way to get from Reykjavik to Stykkisholmur. While there are bus routes between some towns in Iceland, there is no single bus route that will take you around the Golden Circle, Iceland’s interconnected road that runs close to the perimeter of the country. If you do procure a car in advance, the drive from Reykjavik to Stykkisholmur will take you between 120 and 150 minutes.

On our voyage to Iceland, we greatly underestimated the demand for rental cars, and we arrived to find “Sold Out” signs at every rental company desk. Our only option was to get to Stykkishólmur by bus. In Iceland, it’s important to plan your bus trips in advance. Times can change weekly, and certain buses only run on specified days. Travelers should download the free Strætó BS app for buses in and around Reykjavik. We didn’t plan well enough though, and ended up with our thumbs out on the side of the road. We were picked up by a solo traveler from the Netherlands, who brought us all the way into Stykkishólmur.

Once you get to Stykkishólmur, the ferry ride to Flatey takes ninety minutes. Ticket prices vary by month and they increase according to peak months of tourism. Off season tickets run as low as $23 USD for a one-way ticket, but summer months will run up to $75 USD for a one-way ticket. There is a ticketbooth and storefront operated by Seatours on the pier in Stykkishólmur where you can purchase your spot on the ferry.

Even in the summer months, the ride on the top deck of the ferry is frigid. The wind whips against your skin and paints your cheeks red. It’s best to bundle in layers that can be easily stripped off for a later walk around Flatey. Though cold, the views are well worth braving the low temperatures.

Flatey is part of a group of islands created by the pressure of a glacier in an area known as Breiðafjörður. As we cruised along on the ferry, several miniature islands floated by, some with only a single dwelling peering off of the top of a rock protruding out of the water. The images conjured up stories in our minds about the people who might be living in these homes. When our fingers finally went numb, we escaped down into the lower deck to purchase cups of coffee that would thaw us out.

Photo: Courtesy Tim Vetter

There is a single road leading from the port at Flatey into the village. You’re likely to only see one car on the island, and it runs supplies back and forth between the ferry and Hotel Flatey. We took a circuitous route from the port, walking along the cliff’s edge, through long grass that hid black and white sheep. A shaggy dog skipped alongside, rousing the sleeping sheep who once awakened, watched us warily.

Photo: Courtesy Tim Vetter

Like much of Iceland, Flatey features colorful homes that look as if they were plucked right out of a storybook. An old hollowed out ship, long ago wrecked on the rocks, serves as a landmark on one side of the island. The other side features large rock formations reaching out of the ocean, and they are covered with squawking birds calling for their mates. A single-room library uses the honor system, with bibliophiles recording their name and the book they borrowed in a ledger that sits upon a wooden table. The hotel and restaurant are open during the summer months. In the winter, only two families remain on the island.

In Flatey, you can stand on the edge of a cliff, look out, and see only the ocean stretching for miles until the frozen, deep blue water runs into the horizon. There is but one place to find solace in the form of warm food and drink, and it’s the restaurant attached to Hotel Flatey.

Photo: Courtesy Tim Vetter

The restaurant was first built in 1890, but was renovated in 2007. It is located in the Samkomuhús (assembly hall) building attached to Hotel Flatey. Tables can be booked in advance. At the time of our visit we weren’t aware of this fact, and we arrived before the kitchen opened for dinner at 6:00 pm. Fortunately, you can still purchase tea, coffee, and baked treats between the end of lunch at 3:00 pm, and when the kitchen fires up its burners for dinner. We happily sipped at steaming cups of rich, deeply flavored coffee and put our names down for a table. Looking out the window, we saw free-roaming sheep who ran bleating down a dirt path, chased by children pushing their friends in a wheelbarrow.

Photo: Courtesy Tim Vetter

The food reflected the best of what Iceland has to offer. Local, Icelandic delicacy, svið, features a cross section of sheepshead. Mussels pulled straight from the ocean were sauteed in butter and herbs. Thick, crusty bread was provided for soaking up the savory broth at the bottom of the bowl of muscles. Heaping spoonfuls of pink roe drizzled over crispy seaweed sent out brains into an endorphin-filled frenzy. A stocked bar with stomach-warming spirits kept us toasty for the ride back. It’s likely that we would have been happy having been served frozen television dinners at Hotel Flatey, due to the restaurant’s idyllic location. But the delicious offerings made the experience all that more worth the trip.

Friðgeir Helgason is the chef responsible for the magical dishes. The experience was made possible due to the combination of his skill and creativity. I watched Chef Helgason through the open archway of the kitchen, with his head wrapped in a bandana, as he melted pads of butter and sauteed freshly gathered mussels. Despite being the one person cooking, he made time to walk amongst the happy eaters in the dining hall to check on the success of his creations. Fortunately for travelers in 2022, he will be returning to the kitchen once more this summer.

Fully sated, we walked out into the fading light of early evening. Our return ticket was booked for the final boat returning to the mainland, so we hustled down the path after our meal, bidding farewell to the sheep and smiling children, hopeful that we would return again.

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10 Common Travel Scams And How To Spot Them Before It’s Too Late

Running into scams can be common for many travelers and many times, it’s because of what they don’t know. Traveling in big cities and in any touristy area will draw scammers and people looking to take advantage of trusting or unsuspecting travelers.

Staying aware of your surroundings is the first step in avoiding travel scams before they happen. You will encounter friendly people on every trip but regardless, stay alert and wary if something feels or looks off.

Here are some of the most common travel scams that every person should watch out for:

The tea tasting experience

I am guilty of falling for the pricey “let me take you to an authentic tea tasting” travel scam. On my first day in China, I could barely stay awake from the jet lag and was easy prey. A man came up to me and welcomed me to Beijing asking if I wanted to go to his friend’s shop for the best tea experience.

It was a fantastic ceremony and taught on how to taste Chinese tea. But before I knew what was happening, I was being ushered to his other friend next door who sold art. I paid for the smallest piece of art and the tea but the price is given seemed high. I wasn’t sure of the exchange rate and I didn’t want to insult him by questioning it, so I paid and left.
Later I calculated that I had paid $300 USD for tea and art! So, always know the conversion rate and if something sounds too high, it’s because it is. And don’t go into any activity without asking about the price, FIRST!

Friendship or blessing bracelet

A very friendly person comes up to you and before you know what is happening, they are putting a bracelet on your wrist. Even though the premise is that it is free as a friendly gesture, it isn’t. Once it’s on you are expected to pay even if you take it off. If you don’t, they make a loud scene so you feel obligated to give them something.
You might see a similar scenario where a person will give you a bracelet for a blessing. Take nothing for free, there’s always a price.

The “broken” taxi meter

It’s not uncommon to get into a taxi and they tell you their meter is broken. If you hear that, get out and find a taxi that does have a meter. Most of the time it isn’t broken and is a travel scam that can rack up an insanely high bill by the time you reach your destination.
Then you are in a bad position if you don’t pay, as they can call the authorities. Instead, stick with metered taxis, an Uber, or other local ride-sharing services to avoid ridiculously high fares.

Woman with a baby pickpocket

Usually, in cities where there is more poverty, you might see a woman carrying a baby approach you. As hard as it is to see a mother with a baby that looks soiled without clothes, stay clear.

In some areas in the world, the woman will get extremely close, asking for you to give her money to feed her baby. What you may not see is that her hand that isn’t holding the baby is reaching into your pocket or bag.

Remember, this isn’t a moment to profile or stereotype anyone, but an opportunity to keep you vigilant and have a better understanding of potential possibilities.

Your hotel or attraction is closed

This scam can happen in a variety of situations with the most common being your hotel, train, or any number of attractions being closed after you’ve already booked and paid.
You get to your hotel and before you enter, you are told it is closed. Yet they know of a hotel that is open and better. Keep your guard up by ignoring them and verify with your hotel or attraction beforehand to avoid falling for this scam.

Book with only reputable sites that have reviews and clear instructions on how to check in or get to your attraction.

Buying Tickets For Attractions On The Street

As you approach an attraction, a guy rushes up to you to offer a way better deal on tickets than buying at the entrance. Don’t fall for this tourist scam as they are likely not real tickets, expired, and will cost you money. The last thing you want to do is pay for fake tickets and then have to pay again for the real deal.
And if you can pay online with a credit card, it’s preferred in the event you need to submit a refund claim.

Not getting the correct change

Many times, on a trip you are in a rush or are distracted by the new environment you are in. If you are buying something in a shop or from a street vendor, count your change in front of them before walking away.

Too often they will short-change you. Often it happens without realizing it because you aren’t familiar with the currency. Instead of getting back $10 for example, they only give you $5. And if you pay in US dollars, it can be harder to identify the correct change based on the exchange rate, so it can be easier to convert your cash.

People offering to take your photo

Be cautious! If someone comes up to you offering to take your photo, it’s best to say “no”, unless you know they’re also a tourist–like yourself.

Two things can happen: the person can make a run for it with your device or they will demand that you pay them for their picture-taking services. So it’s best to ask someone to take your photo that is also sightseeing or taking a lot of photos too.

Spilling something on you

You are sitting at a café, restaurant, or market minding your business when someone “accidentally” spills a drink or sauce on you. The person immediately feels horrible and offers to help wipe it off and while it sounds like a nice gesture, it’s a ploy. This is a distraction so that you aren’t aware of what is really happening.

They are picking your pocket or bag in the process. No matter the substance that has been spilled, nicely refuse their assistance and sometimes hand them a small amount of local currency to divert the attention.

Touching the shrine or temple

Visiting temples or shrines in many areas of the world is typically on many traveler itineraries. As you enter and see a shrine, someone may gesture for you to reach out and touch it. They might even be pushy, encouraging you to get up close and touch an area of the shrine. Say “no, thank you” and move on. If you do touch it, they may demand that you pay for doing so.

Being aware of the most common travel scams will reduce your chances of being caught off guard. And no matter what, don’t let any scam prevent you from booking that next trip!

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10 unique date spots in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is packed with endless unique date ideas. One of the advantages of living here is that you don’t have to settle for dinner and a movie; you can easily ditch stale, tedious date ideas and let summer inspire you to get out of your comfort zone.

Forget meeting up at any old bar. These suggestions encourage you to test your compatibility with someone over an escape room experience, discover your mutual love of animals on a wine safari, or learn some new skills together to keep things exciting and fresh. Since you probably already pay sky-high rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the Valley, you might as well benefit from the city’s endless activities. Here are 10 unique date ideas that you can experience in Los Angeles.

1. Cuddle under the stars while watching a movie at the Rooftop Cinema Club

Photo: Rooftop Cinema Club

Okay, we said the whole dinner-and-a-movie idea is overdone, but a trip to the Rooftop Cinema is a much more romantic setting than your crowded neighborhood cinema. It involves absorbing the LA skyline, snacking on bottomless popcorn, and cuddling on a rooftop under the stars. Rooftop Cinema Club has two locations, Hollywood and Downtown LA, and the cinema provides guests with deck chairs and wireless headphones. They play new movies as well as classics, so there’s plenty for you and your date to choose from. If you two want to get even closer, spend a few extra dollars and lounge on a double deck-chair love seat, which still includes the bottomless popcorn.

2. Tour the secret tunnels beneath the streets of DTLA

Many people in LA aren’t even aware that these tunnels exist, giving you a great opportunity to employ the element of surprise. Cartwheel Art’s Underground LA tour, in partnership with Hotel Indigo, will give you and your date insight into the secret passageways, which were once used to transport booze during Prohibition. You will venture below street level to visit hidden tunnels and former speakeasies. Afterwards, you may want to stop for a classy cocktail at a modern-day LA speakeasy, such as The Varnish or The Slipper Clutch.

3. Meet wildlife while wine tasting at Malibu Wine Safari

Photo: Fotografie-Kuhlmann/Shutterstock

Don’t jet off on an African safari with your date just yet; you can have a similar experience in LA. This day trip involves a combination of wine and adventure. After driving along a scenic road through Malibu, you’ll arrive at Malibu Wine Safaris, where you’ll jump in a jeep and venture on your safari tour. You’ll get to feed zebras and camels, and you can even snap a selfie with Stanley, the giraffe that is all over Instagram. You’ll sip a variety of wines between meeting the animals, making for an action-packed day, which certainly beats your typical sit-down wine tasting. If you want to extend the length of your date, you can pack a picnic to enjoy on the grass area at Malibu Wines. Come during the week for a less-crowded experience.

4. Learn some new acrobatic tricks

If you’ve ever been to a Cirque du Soleil show, chances are you’ve gasped at the remarkable skill level of the acrobatic performers. Now there’s a way to learn some of those circus skills and get a fun workout while you’re at it. The Cirque School in Hollywood teaches Cirque 101 classes for $25 each and offers the chance to attempt static trapeze with the help of an instructor. The school also offers contortion classes and aerial fitness, which look easy but are actually incredibly difficult workouts.

5. Bike ride at night

Photo: Vandathai/Shutterstock

The Passage Bike Ride is a weekly bike ride that starts and ends at a donut shop. The guides try to lead riders to lesser-known parts of LA, and the route varies each week to keep things interesting. You may hit up pool halls, bowling alleys, or karaoke venues along the way, and you’ll need to be prepared to ride up hills, through tight alleyways, and possibly hike some parts on foot. It’s definitely an unusual date that will require you to be up for anything. For this tour, you’ll need to bring your own bike and arrive early, as the riders leave right at 9:00 PM.

6. Solve problems in an escape room

There’s an old expression that says in order to really get to know someone, you should travel with them. However, placing someone in a high-pressure situation and forcing them to problem solve can also do the trick. Over the past few years, several escape room companies have surfaced in Los Angeles. You’ll find that some rooms have fantastical themes such as outer space, or a 1920s detective office, while others are just regular escape rooms. The thrill of an escape room is that you only have one hour to link together a series of puzzles in order to solve a mystery or escape a situation. Usually, an escape room involves groups of six to 10 people, so it won’t really be an intimate date, but it’s a perfect choice for double dates. Some escape room companies you may want to check out are 60 Out, Escape Room L.A., and Evil Genius Escape.

7. Play with adoptable animals at an animal café

Photo: bodnar.photo/Shutterstock

Coffee and puppies are another great LA combination. Across the city, you’ll find animal cafés that offer customers the chance to cuddle adoptable cats and dogs whilst sipping on caramel lattes. The Dog Cafe in Rampart Village costs $15/hour plus the cost of drinks. Crumbs & Whiskers on Melrose costs $22–25 for a 70-minute reservation. If you wish to purchase drinks and snacks, you can have them delivered through Open Space LA. And if you really love the experience, you may just walk out as new pet parents.

8. Take a flight with the Pan Am Experience

These days, air travel is not the glamorous experience it once was. With , however, you can sit inside an exact replica of a 1970s Boeing 747 and get a sense of what it was like to fly first class with Pan Am back in the day. During your “flight,” you’ll have the freedom to order drinks from the open bar, devour chateaubriand carved seat-side by flight attendants wearing the iconic Pan Am uniforms, and even shop for old-school items from the duty-free cart. While there, you can also tour Air Hollywood studios, which features airplane sets that have been used in countless films and TV shows. You might even get to sit in the same seat that Leonardo DiCaprio was duct-taped to in Wolf of Wall Street.

9. Take a horseback ride through Sunset Ranch

Photo: DisobeyArt/Shutterstock

Several companies offer guided horseback rides through Los Angeles. However, Sunset Ranch does things a little differently. Sunset Ranch has day tours as well as evening tours, which is perfect if you want to ride into the sunset with your date. The horseback rides take guests through peaceful Griffith Park, where they can snap photos with a great view of the city behind them. The rides tend to go at a slow pace, so if you’re not an experienced rider, there’s no need to worry. On Saturdays, rides also end with a big BBQ and live music back at the ranch.

10. Share some laughs at a Groundlings show.

Throughout Los Angeles you’ll find countless actors and comedians trying to make it big in Hollywood. What this means for you and your date is that you can catch many of these highly skilled actors live on stage as they perform hilarious sketch and improv shows. There are several places to see solid improv or sketch shows throughout LA, but Groundlings is a staple with a reputation for hosting actors who later go to perform on Saturday Night Live. It’s located in a small theater on Melrose Avenue. There’s a live band that accompanies the show, and tickets are under $20. Groundlings alumni include Will Ferrell and Melissa McCarthy. De-stress with your date and share some laughs while watching Flo from the Progressive Insurance commercials kill on stage. (Yes, she performs there too.)

A version of this article was previously published on June 25, 2018, and was updated on April 8, 2022.

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This Frequent Traveler Has an Ingenious System To Travel for Free and Even Get Paid for It

For many people, one of the biggest hindrances to traveling is the cost. Sure, there are plenty of budgeting tips out there, like the best way to find cheap flights, enrolling in a frequent flyer mile program that’s right for yout, comparing hotel roo prices to Airbnbs, and looking for free or inexpensive activities to do at your destination. However, one TikToker thinks she has completely cracked the code to not only have her travel be paid for, but to be paid for traveling.

Jennifer Hayes, who goes by the social handle @smartypantsfinance, uses mystery shopping to go on completely reimbursed vacations and make some money while she’s at it. Mystery shopping is when a company pays you to show up somewhere looking like a regular customer and then provide feedback on the experience. While you typically have to pay for the experience up-front (to look like a regular customer), the company reimburses you for the expenses.

@smartypantsfinance Hotel mystery shopping smartypantsfinance.com #moneytips #wanderlust #traveltheworldforfree #travelhack #getpaidtotravel #freetravel #moneytok #travelforfree #freehotel #debtfree #frugalmom ♬ original sound – smartypantsfinance

“So the first thing I do is, I go to mystery shopper websites that I’m registered with and I look at their list of available assignments,” Hayes said. “There may be an assignment in New York City or one in Chicago or one in Cancun, and I just pick the ones that I’m interested in doing. If I get one of the hotel jobs, then the next thing I do is start looking for airline mystery shopping assignments.”

She then explains that the hotel job will typically pay for flight reimbursement, but if she also works an airline mystery shopping assignment, the airline can reimburse her a second time. She’ll also try to find an airport assignment where she’s flying out to get paid for that experience. These are less common, but there are sometimes opportunities to review airport services or lounges.

“The next thing I do is look for assignments at my destination. I’ve evaluated stores, restaurants, even trolley [tram] tours while I’m at a destination, and I add that onto my trip. By the time I come home, my trip has been completely free and I’ve usually made some money on top of it.”

The TikTok video now has over 28,000 views. While this hack may require a little bit of work, it seems like the benefits may outweigh the cost of labor if you have the time to invest and are looking for a way to see the world.

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Is it okay to recline your seat?

This is the Travel Take, where Matador’s writers and editors make the case for their favorite travel hacks, tips, and personal tics.

There are debates that will never cease raging: “Is a hot dog a sandwich?”, “Is deep dish actually pizza?”, “Backstreet Boys or NSYNC?” Only a few of them, however, have spawned as many fights (both verbal and physical) as the controversy over whether or not you should recline your airplane seats.

“To recline or not to recline?” That is the question. If it smacks of a Shakespearean tragedy, that’s because it’s often the source of drama in flight. We all know how it starts. A passenger reclines their seat — either to get some shut-eye or just some extra space — and the person behind them, feeling encroached upon, reacts poorly. Justifiably so. Does the fault lie with the recliner or with the hapless seat neighbor? In reality, it lies with the airline that installed the button allowing you to recline your airplane seat.

The headache caused by passengers reclining their seats has even been confirmed by research. One traveler survey conducted by travel blog Only Wanderlust has found seat reclining to be among the top 10 most annoying passenger behaviors. Another survey of air passengers by FiveThirtyEight came to a similar conclusion: 41 percent of fliers consider seat reclining to be rude. These findings are backed up by some flight attendants, who admit that the practice can lead to thorny situations.

If passengers could simply come to a collective consensus about seat reclining — either total acceptance of the practice, or complete rejection — that would solve the problem. After years of fiery debate, however, that’s clearly not happening anytime soon. This is why, for the sake of collective passenger sanity and harmony, that button should be removed altogether.

Reclining your airplane seat creates a domino effect of discomfort

Many of our nation’s social and political disagreements are rooted in the philosophical battle between community and self-interest. Do we put ourselves first, or our neighbors? Should we only care about what happens within our borders, or involve ourselves in international affairs? The same is true of seat reclining. The community-minded approach would be to refrain from reclining, knowing that it inconveniences the person behind you, and will likely create a domino effect of claustrophobia. The selfish approach is, of course, to say “screw everyone else, that 105 degree angle will make all the difference!”

You can’t blame people for frequently choosing the selfish approach. The easiest option is usually the option most-taken, after all, and that little button is tantalizingly easy to push. Like the Ring of Power in The Lord of the Rings, it weighs on our minds, appealing to our worst impulses, whispering dark temptations in our ear. Also like the Ring, the solution here isn’t to use it (for it can only be used for evil) but to destroy it — to cast it back into the fiery, industrial chasm from whence it came.

Planes aren’t supposed to be comfortable

The motivating ideology behind reclining seats is to make your flight experience more comfortable. It sounds reasonable. You can’t exactly blame people for trying to make a tight squeeze feel less cramped, or a guaranteed-to-be-terrible night’s sleep slightly less awful. But the airline can install all the buttons they want, dole out pillows, sleep masks, earplugs, and tuck you in at night — you’ll still be uncomfortable, and that’s totally okay.

Planes have one job, and that’s getting you to your destination in one piece. It’s not to entertain you, or provide you with a top-notch hospitality experience. The advent of inflight entertainment certainly makes flying more palatable, and amenities like pillows and blankets can’t hurt — but these things, unlike reclining seats, can be enjoyed without inconveniencing others. Flying on an airplane isn’t like staying at a hotel. You’re not supposed to be comfortable. The point of flying is to get from point A to B as expeditiously as possible, and if you happen to catch some Zs, count yourself lucky.

An entire industry is devoted to preventing you from reclining your seat

An entire independent industry has formed around seat reclining.

The most prominent example is probably the Knee Defender, a device you can place on the bottom of the seatback in front of you, which prevents the seat from reclining. If you’re thinking that using a special invention to forcibly prevent your neighbor from reclining their seat might lead to an incendiary situation, you’d be right. In 2014, James Beach was asked to remove his Knee Defender, and immediately upon doing so, the passenger in front of him reclined their seat.

Beach reportedly complained, saying he wasn’t able to work on his laptop with the seat so far back, but the flight attendant insisted that the passenger had a right to recline. Beach responded by pushing the seat forward, which caused the passenger to stand up and throw a cup of soda on his laptop.

“I said a lot of things I shouldn’t have said to the flight attendant,” Beach told CBC News, “some bad words…the plane was dead quiet for the rest of that flight.”

Forget the fact that a new product was invented, and gained widespread popularity, solely because of how much people hate reclining seats. Forget that reclining seats led one adult to use a piece of plastic to sabotage another adult, and that adult #2 ended up throwing soda on adult #1. Instead of assigning blame to a victim or aggressor, remember the true culprit of this story: the seat recline button itself.

We need to realize that the discord that arises from these incidents isn’t the fault of the recliner or the reclinee, but the airline that enables us, making the mischief irresistible.

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The Case for Staying at an All-Inclusive — Solo

When Club Med invited me to check out its Dominican Republic resorts, I jumped at the chance to bring my partner someplace tropical to slough off the last dregs of winter. It was going to be tricky to coordinate with his work schedule, but we had it all mapped out: We’d fly into Punta Cana, spend two nights at Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda an hour and a half up the coast, and then spend another two nights at Club Med Punta Cana before flying home. Until, a few days after my flights were confirmed, we realized he wasn’t going to be able to join after all.

Traveling solo to an all-inclusive resort was not a square I ever expected to cross off my solo travel bingo card. I don’t have much experience with all-inclusives generally, and throughout my 20s, my solo travels graduated from stereotypical backpacking to my own brand of digital nomadism. Self-directed solo travel works for me, but the number of people I’ve met who flare up with anxiety at the thought of venturing into a foreign land alone, or talk about solo travel like it’s some great adventure they’d love to work up the courage to try one day, has made me realize that it’s not for everyone. Either that, or perhaps some solo travelers just need a gateway trip. Enter all-inclusives.

Photo: Club Med

The whole idea behind all-inclusive resorts is perfect for fledging solo travelers. At comprehensive properties like the ones operated by Club Med, a wide range of food, drinks, activities, and entertainment are all hosted on-site and included in the cost of booking, leaving guests to contend with very few logistics after check-in. What’s more, all-inclusives tend to attract travelers that like to stay on the property, making it easier to meet fellow resort-goers than it is to have repeat run-ins with the average hotel guest.

Nonetheless, pulling up to Club Med Michès, I wondered if I’d feel alienated in a setting I’d long associated with couples and families. I’d cut my teeth in hostels and guesthouses in Europe and Southeast Asia where solo travelers are a dime a dozen. Even the groups I met generally subscribed to the same travel philosophies I did, including a desire to meet other travelers, and many of us loosely followed the same routes.

Yet my misgivings about Club Med’s target demographic were quickly dispelled: Perusing the Club Med app to get a lay of the first property as I settled into my room, one of the first things I saw was a reassurance that the resort was designed to welcome all types of travelers, “as a family, a couple, a group of friends, or a solo traveler.”

Why Club Meds are among the best all-inclusive resorts for solo travelers

Photo: Club Med

By definition, every all-inclusive follows the same model, but what’s included varies by property. Some cover just meals and beverages; others also include activities and entertainment.

At Club Med resorts, guests can participate in a variety of recreation, from tennis, pickleball, and horseback riding to yoga, archery, and a flying trapeze, all of which are available at both the Michès and Punta Cana properties. (The larger of the two, Club Med Punta Cana has a whole circus school with offerings such as a high bungee, aerial silk, and tightrope, as well as opportunities such as golfing and scuba diving.) While private lessons can be arranged for certain activities, most are conducted in group settings on a first-to-sign-up basis, allowing guests to mingle with travelers who share similar interests.

Nightly entertainment is similarly communal. Whether it’s a themed happy hour, dance performance, dance party, or fireworks show, evenings at Club Med are anchored by revelry that spreads throughout the central areas. For older travelers such as myself, these late-night events serve as opportunities to experience the resort sans kids, which may appeal to social solo travelers.

Both of the Dominican Republic properties also have adults-only areas where guests can visit or book their accommodations, such as the Emerald Jungle in Michès, complete with Club Med’s first swim-up bar, and the Zen Oasis in Punta Cana with its Olympic-sized swimming pool and private terraces outside every room.

Photo: Club Med

Yet it’s not Club Med’s amenities that make its properties some of the best all-inclusive resorts for solo travelers. It’s the brand’s ethos. Guests are known as GMs or Gentle Members; resort staff is called GOs, or Gentle Organizers. And much as guests are free to socialize among themselves, so too are GMs and GOs.

According to Maricruz Diaz Ventura, the meetings and events manager at Club Med Punta Cana, this is one of the best safeguards solo travelers have against feeling lonely at a Club Med resort — and something she greatly appreciates about working with the brand, having come from a more formal, strictly service-oriented hotel.

“When you’re having lunch or dinner, the GOs come to the table and ask if they can eat with you, so it’s easy to create relationships,” says Ventura, noting that this is also common practice among GMs because “they understand the Club Med concept.”

Later in my conversation with Ventura at the Indigo Beach Lounge, a Club Med Punta Cana regular from Ontario, Canada, approached us to rave about that very concept as if she was a paid promoter. (She wasn’t.) Shortly after, she called over her friend whom she’d introduced to the resort, which they now visit annually along with their partners, and just like that, we were a group of four chatting like old acquaintances.

My experience at Club Med’s Dominican Republic properties was not entirely social. There were times I swam in the ocean and lounged poolside alone; I got a massage, went to the gym, and even hit the buffet by myself on multiple occasions. But it was because I wanted to.

Finding companions and interacting with others are not requirements of a fulfilling solo trip. But if you’re new to traveling alone, it sure feels good to be surrounded by approachable people at a resort where everything’s taken care of, whether or not they wind up as friends.

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What happens during a bird strike

Of all the things that could cause something to go wrong during a flight, you might not think that a bird strike would be high on the list. After all, airplanes are made of millions of parts, including some very sophisticated electronics, that could potentially malfunction and create issues. Yet a simple bird colliding with a plane can lead to complications.

One extreme and famous example of a bird strike with severe consequences is the January 2009 US Airways Flight 1549 which hit a flock of Canada geese after taking off from LaGuardia airport. The plane lost all engine power and had to make an emergency landing on New York City’s Hudson River.

We talked with Tyler Herbert, an airline pilot in Canada, to get an expert’s answer to our most pressing questions about bird strikes. Herbert has been a commercial pilot for 13 years, flying several different types of aircraft including the King Air 200, Dash 8, Q400, 787, and the 777. You can follow his flying adventures on Instagram at therb777.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Matador Network: How serious can a bird strike be? Can a bird strike cause a plane to crash?

Tyler Herbert: The vast majority of bird strikes are not dangerous. It is a fairly regular occurrence, and almost always something the public will not be aware of. That is not to say they can’t be serious, but the percentage of bird strikes causing severe problems with aircraft are very low. The odds of a strike happening each flight are quite low as well, but in our world today there are a staggering amount of flights that take place each day.

In 2017, there were approximately 14,000 recorded bird strikes in the US alone. Examples of significant problems that could be caused by bird strikes would be engine damage, or damage to the airframe such as broken windows. To my knowledge there have only been two commercial airliner crashes due to bird strikes since 2009.

Can passengers feel or hear a bird strike? Would it shake the aircraft?

Unless the plane is quite small, passengers won’t be able to feel a bird strike. You could possibly see the strike depending on where it occurs, especially if it strikes the wing or engine. It is also probably not something passengers would be able to hear, unless there were many birds or a very large bird, or the strike occurred very near where they are sitting in the aircraft. The plane will also not have any noticeable movement after a bird strike, unless it is a very small aircraft. Even then it’s unlikely. The contact itself shouldn’t cause any movement as the aircraft will have much more momentum than the bird.

If a bird does not get sucked in by the engine but only hits the fuselage, how serious can it get?

If there is no damage that is obvious to us [the pilots] and the aircraft is performing normally we will continue the flight. Upon arrival at the next destination the aircraft will be inspected for any signs of a bird strike and any issues found will be dealt with accordingly before the next departure. If we have any reason to suspect there could be a safety issue due to a bird strike we would return to our departure airport. The safety of the flight is always our number one priority.

As far as fuselage damage due to a bird strike, this wouldn’t normally be a very serious issue. Any small dents that may occur should have very little effect on the flying characteristics of the aircraft. The most significant damage that could occur to the fuselage would be damage to the windscreen on the front of the aircraft that could cause visibility issues.

Are there any recent examples of a bird strike that caused a major plane accident besides the Hudson River landing of January 2009?

This is definitely the best example of a bird strike causing a major accident. I have seen videos of smaller aircraft coming into contact with larger birds on the windscreen causing the glass to break. This would certainly be a scary incident, but should not cause a crash.

Bird strikes causing one of the engines to flame out is also something that has happened, but commercial airliners are designed to be able to fly with an engine failure. This would be an example of a time that a bird strike would cause a return to the airport of departure.

Are bird strikes only a problem during takeoff and landing?

Bird strikes are possible at high altitude as larger birds can be found at altitudes above 10,000 feet. But the odds of finding a lone bird in that much space are slim.The further the plane is from the ground the less likely a bird strike will occur. Most birds will be close to ground level which means that the vast majority of bird strikes take place during takeoff and landing.

Have you personally experienced a bird strike?

I have experienced several bird strikes. I have hit a flock of small gulls during takeoff in a King Air [a twin turboprop aircraft]. We were at a speed where we were able to reject the takeoff and return to the hangar for maintenance. I have also hit birds in the Dash 8 [also a twin turboprop aircraft, but larger] on final approach. But I have operated thousands of flights and can count on one hand the amount of bird strikes I have had. The percentage of occurrence is quite low. Many times where we have seen birds near the aircraft on takeoff or landing and suspected a strike there has been no evidence found.

What is done to prevent bird strikes in airports and aboard airplanes?

The best way to prevent bird strikes is to keep the areas around airports as uninviting to birds as possible. The idea is to make the airport an area where birds don’t want to spend time. Unfortunately this is easier said than done. As far as avoiding birds, studies show that lights, noise, etc. don’t help much, if at all, with avoiding bird strikes.

Other ways to avoid bird strikes would be to delay takeoff if there are birds noticed near the runway, and to use a steeper angle of climb for the first 3,000 feet or so on departure, where the majority of the risk of a strike is.

Is there a time of the year or a region of the world when/where bird strikes are more common?

Bird strikes can occur any time birds are present. Birds are present in larger numbers during the summer typically, so that increases the chances of a strike occurring. If the area around the airport gives birds a reason to be there, this would be another reason why you may have a higher number of bird strikes in that area. Things that make airports attractive to birds would be large bodies of water, easy access to food (such as garbage dumps), and nesting areas.

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100-Year-Old National Park Ranger Retires After Years of Highlighting Diverse Stories

On March 31, 2022, 100-year-old Betty Reid Soskin wore her National Park Service ranger flat hat for the last time.

Soskin, who was the oldest active ranger before retiring, began working for the NPS at 84 years old. She started with a temporary position after working with the City of Richmond and the NPS on the plans for the Rosie the Riveter/WWII Home Front National Historical Park, according to a news release. She helped the NPS receive a grant funded by PG&E to tell untold stories of African Americans on the Home Front during WWII. She became a permanent employee in 2011 — at age 89.

“Betty has made a profound impact on the National Park Service and the way we carry out our mission,” said NPS Director Chuck Sams in the press release. “I am grateful for her lifelong dedication to sharing her story and wish her all the best in retirement. Her efforts remind us that we must seek out and give space for all perspectives so that we can tell a more full and inclusive history of our nation. Congratulations, Betty!”

Soskin, who grew up in a Black, Cajun-Creole family, has spent the last 16 years using her personal experiences to share the efforts of women of color, particularly Black women, who participated in the World War II Home Front. During World War II, she worked in a segregated Union hall, Boilermaker’s A-36, as a file clerk. Soskin spent her last day at the park providing an interpretive program to the public and visiting with coworkers at the park she helped make a reality.

“To be a part of helping to mark the place where that dramatic trajectory of my own life, combined with others of my generation, will influence the future by the footprints we’ve left behind has been incredible,” said Soskin. “Being a primary source in the sharing of that history – my history – and giving shape to a new national park has been exciting and fulfilling. It has proven to bring meaning to my final years.”

Rosie the Riveter/World War II Home Front National Historical Park will celebrate Betty’s retirement on Saturday, April 16 in Richmond, California.

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The 21 Best Things To Eat at Epcot, From Fish and Chips To Apple Strudel

Disney parks are famous for many things, but the parks’ food offerings are surely at the top of the list. People travel to Disney parks just to try the Dole whip at Magic Kingdom or the yucca fries at Animal Kingdom–and the deep-fried and sugar coated snacks have garnered legions of fans. But many Disney fanatics agree that if you want a great meal or stellar snacks beyond the corndogs and Mickey pops, you head to Epcot. The best Epcot restaurants offer a range of dishes from, French pastries, to braised pork and grilled seafood.

Since it opened in 1982, Epcot has lured visitors with its attractions based on eleven countries, futuristic aesthetic and permanent World’s Fair concept. More than a million visitors pass through its gates each month to ride the attractions, experience cultural events, and eat and drink their way around the park.

Epcot has long been my favorite park, not just for its visual appeal, but for its food; I’ve sampled dozens of the park’s offerings from full-service meals to kiosk takeaways, and finally settled on a list of the best Epcot restaurants. For me, it’s not a vacation unless there’s great eats, and at Epcot, there are plenty. The park even hosts a renowned International Food and Wine Festival every fall. From the mezcal margaritas to the flaky pain au chocolat, the food at Epcot is the real deal. Here are the 13 best Epcot restaurants, where you can try the most delicious desserts, dinners, and snacks at the theme park.

Sunshine Seasons

If you’ve already reached your limit of fried food, head to Sunshine Seasons, a food court in The Land pavilion of Future World. All the produce served at Sunshine Seasons is produced in The Land’s greenhouses, so it’s truly farm-to-table. The wood-smoked rotisserie chicken and grilled salmon are standouts, and a variety of stir fry, noodle and fruit bowls are some of the healthiest choices in the park.

Rose and Crown

Just past the back gate to Epcot at the entrance to the World Showcase, is the Rose and Crown, a quintessentially English pub serving fish and chips.  The beer-battered hake is crunchy, flavorful, and accompanied by a side of thick English chips best enjoyed when doused in vinegar. The Rose and Crown has an impressive scotch menu, as well as a variety of lagers and stouts on tap that make the perfect accompaniment.  Followed up with a serving of the sticky toffee pudding, it’s a comforting meal in one of the best restaurants in the park.

Photo: Courtesy Walt Disney World / Todd Anderson

Space 220

For an out-of-this-world dining experience, try the new Space 220 restaurant in Future World, adjacent to the Mission Space ride.  Space 220 is as much about the atmosphere as the food, and you’ll pay for it.  With a prix fixe of $79 per adult at dinner, the experience doesn’t come cheap.  But there are some gastronomic winners on the mostly American menu.  The Big Bang Burrata with artichokes, peppery arugula and romesco sauce is outstanding, as is the Blue Moon Cauliflower, tempura-fried cauliflower with house made hot sauce. You’re paying for the atmosphere and the chance to observe planet Earth from ‘space’ — if you can get a reservation.  However, many of the salads and small plates can also be found on the Space 220 Lounge menu, which offers seating on a first-come basis.

La Hacienda de San Angel

When your palate craves a spicy kick, the Mexican cuisine at La Hacienda de San Angel is hands-down some of the best food in the park. The meal begins with three complimentary salsas and house made chips, best complimented by one of the many handcrafted margaritas like the spicy El Diablo or the fruity Wild One margarita. Disney knows its margaritas and one could spend an entire evening soaking in tequila, but that would mean missing out on house specialties like the Conchinita Pibil, an achiote marinated braised pork, or the Parillada del Mar, a grilled seafood dish for two.

Regal Eagle Smokehouse

For traditional American barbecue dishes, the Regal Eagle Smokehouse offers smoked meats like North Carolina style chopped pork butt that is both smoky and tender. The Memphis dry rubbed pork ribs have a sweet and spicy kick that taste even better dipped in any one of the house made barbecue sauces.

Photo: Courtesy Walt Disney World / Harrison Cooney

La Crêperie de Paris

One of Epcot’s newest restaurants, La Crêperie de Paris is inspired by the Brittany region of France and mainly serves crêpes. The thin galettes filled with savory or sweet fillings are a lighter choice, but no less tasty. The Classique galette, a combination of ham and swiss topped with fried egg, is the most popular, but my favorite is the Savoyarde galette, with ham, Raclette cheese and caramelized onion.

Le Cellier

Meat lovers will also love Le Cellier, a cozy steakhouse in the Canada pavilion serving prime cuts of beef.  The filets and strips are enjoyable, but you’ll probably enjoy the regional specialties celebrating Canadian cuisine, like Prince Edward Island mussels cooked in a lemony cream sauce served with ciabatta, even more. The poutine offerings like the signature poutine with Canadian cheddar, and a truffle and red wine reduction will remind you why there’s nothing better than cheese curds.  For more cheesy goodness, try the Canadian beer cheese soup, the most popular item on the menu.

Kabuki Café

When it’s time to cool off, head to the Kabuki Café in Japan for some kakigori, a shaved ice treat popular in Japan.  It’s like a sno-cone since it’s essentially shaved ice with flavored syrup, except that kakigori offers a variety of toppings like sweet milk, sweet cherries and strawberries.  It comes in unusual flavors like tangerine and melon and is generously sized for sharing.

Biergarten

If there’s one restaurant that’s an Epcot must-do, it’s Biergarten. Biergarten is a lively dinner and show atmosphere that transports you straight to Germany.  You’ll sit at communal tables while enjoying German classics like schnitzel, sauerkraut, and sausages. The portions are mighty and satisfying. The massive dessert buffet serves a good chocolate cake and an apple strudel that is sweet without being cloying. The convivial polka band and full liter beer pours will have you shouting ‘Oompah!’ in no time.

Photo: Courtesy Walt Disney World / Harrison Cooney

Spice Road Table and Tangierine Café

For some of the most flavorful dining in Epcot, head to the Morocco pavilion to Spice Road Table and Tangierine Café.  While the menu at Tangierine Café is simple, the restaurant is located in a stunning tiled courtyard, and the well-seasoned kabobs and pillowy Moroccan bread with homemade hummus are consistently good. Spice Road Table is located along the World Showcase Lagoon and features small plates like excellent crispy spiced cauliflower and lemony dolmas.

L’Artisan des Glaces and Les Halles Boulangerie-Pâtisserie

While the sweet crêpes are tasty, better options await at nearby cafés, L’Artisan des Glaces and Les Halles Boulangerie-Pâtisserie.  At L’Artisan des Glaces, you’re there for the macaron ice cream sandwich, a Frenchified version of the ice cream sandwich that combines the chewy, subtle sweetness of a macaron with a dollop of ice cream.  At Les Halles Boulangerie-Pâtisserie, everything is delicious because all of it—from the fraises to the napoleons—is made by professional pastry chefs.  If you want to go full monty with the Parisian fantasy, it’s as simple as buying a freshly baked baguette to go. Stroll over the bridge with the sounds of “La Vie en Rose “drifting across the lagoon, while tearing off pieces of crusty baguette and you’ll easily be transported to another world.

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Escape To These Dreamy Gatlinburg Airbnbs High in the Smokies

Swap skyscrapers for mountains with a cozy getaway to the Smoky Mountains. Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is bursting with cabins, chalets, and lodges where you can unwind without sacrificing your home comforts. This is our pick of the best listings on Airbnb, Gatlinburg, for a dose of the àpres lifestyle whatever the season.

Gatlinburg Airbnbs with best mountain viewsDowntown Gatlinburg AirbnbsDreamy cabins unique stays for couples and groups

We hope you love the Airbnb Gatlinburg 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. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.

Gatlinburg Airbnbs with best mountain viewsNorth Skyline Chalet

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Located in the desirable Chalet Village North, this Airbnb in Gatlinburg, TN, with hot tub, games room, and movie theater is the full package. Generous use of windows and the mezzanine allows the natural light to channel through the space while offering incredible views of Mount LeConte and the Smokies. Families with younger kids will appreciate safety gates, high chairs, and children’s games provided by the host. A 5-minute drive downtown with endless hiking trails on the doorstep.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $500 per night

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Four Sisters

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Photo: Airbnb

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Photo: Airbnb

This stylish lodge in Chalet Village, Gatlinburg, marries modern-day luxury with a wild setting. The internal space is furnished with a sleek kitchen, deep soaking tubs, and limitless natural light courtesy of the massive windows. Each of the five bedrooms has an en-suite attached. Guests have seasonal access to the adjacent clubhouse facilities including a shared heated outdoor pool.

Twelve guests, five bedrooms
Price: $815 per night

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Lookout Loft

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Photo: Airbnb

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Photo: Airbnb

Situated 3 miles from downtown Gatlinburg, the Lookout Loft will captivate you with its thoughtful touches and gorgeous vistas across Mount Le Conte. The private spa and firepit in the backyard are there to keep you toasty on a chilly evening in the mountains. We implore you not to bicker over who gets the loft bedroom with its attached balcony.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $270 per night

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Traveling to Tennessee? Check out Matador’s top Tennessee accommodation guides:Gorgeous Tennessee Airbnbs across the state for your next southern roadtripThe best Airbnbs in Nashville for a bachelorette getawayThe 11 best Nashville Airbnbs by neighborhood

Downtown Gatlinburg AirbnbsBear Path

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Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This Airbnb in Gatlinburg, TN, with hot tub is perfect for couples seeking a mix of peaceful seclusion and easy access to local attractions. The space comprises one bedroom and an open-plan living area complete with a pool table. Your private spa beckons on the balcony where you can drink up the woodland views and shake off a day of hiking or skiing.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $200 per night

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Gatlinburg Cabin

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Photo: Airbnb

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Photo: Airbnb

This downtown Gatlinburg Airbnb hands you the best of both worlds: supreme lodging among nature coupled with a walkable distance to the town center. Spacious interiors are perfectly matched with almost as much external space thanks to the huge wraparound terrace. The elevated location is ideal for taking in the surrounding mountain vistas and keeping a watchful eye out for local black bears. The loft offers infinite entertainment with a ping pong table, a foosball table, and a LEGO wall.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $540 per night

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Vacation rentals with private indoor swimming pool Gatlinburg, TNSplashtastic View Lodge

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Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Furnished with an indoor pool, a games room, and a movie theater, you’d be forgiven for never leaving this top-of-the-line Airbnb in Gatlinburg. Savor the Smoky Mountain and Mount Le Conte views from the heated pool or slip into the hot tub on the balcony. Accommodating large groups and families, this brand new lodge is a short drive downtown.

16 guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $720 per night

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Bear Moon Rising

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Photo: Airbnb

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Photo: Airbnb

Vacation rentals with a private indoor swimming pool in Gatlinburg are hard to come by but Bear Moon Rising has you covered. This huge, three-story log cabin is rustically appointed with exposed woodwork throughout. In addition to the indoor, heated pool, Airbnb has two hot tubs. Once you tire of all the rest and relaxation, you can challenge your pals to snooker or a session in the arcade room. The cushy movie theater is perfect for Netflix nights.

Sixteen guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,000 per night

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Dreamy cabins unique stays for couples and groupsTwo luxury cabins w/ cinema + spa

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Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Sometimes, one luxury cabin in the mountains isn’t enough. This chic vacation home has two! Each unit consists of a lounge, kitchen, game room, and multiple bedrooms. While one cabin comes with a hot tub, the other features a supersized swim spa. These are positioned on the terraces to capitalize on the scenery. To top it all off, this duo of luxury Airbnb Gatlinburg cabins has two home cinemas.

Sixteen guests, ten bedrooms
Price: $1,100 per night

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The Whimsical Treehouse

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Photo: Airbnb

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Photo: Airbnb

Embrace hygge at this handcrafted treehouse overlooking the Little Pigeon River. The space consists of a sleeping den kitted out with a bed, his and hers hammock chairs, and a netted relaxation area that peers over the woodland. With a secluded setting a short drive out of town, a firepit, and private hot tub surrounded by greenery this is perhaps the most romantic Airbnb Gatlinburg proffers.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $400 per night

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Dome at Smoky Mountains Glamping

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Photo: Airbnb

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Photo: Airbnb

Get back to nature with a night at one of these eco-luxe domes – there are four available plus a tiny house with a kitchenette. Set upon a 140-acre patch of farmland, there is a fire pit, kitchen, outdoor shower, and flushable toilets on-site to share with other guests. Kick back on your personal porch during the day before settling down for a night of stargazing from the bed. Dogs are welcome at this pet-friendly Airbnb in Gatlinburg, TN.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $110 per night

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Once Upon a Time

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Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

One of the most unique Gatlinburg cabins on Airbnb puts you right in the middle of your own fairytale. Instagrammable interiors include a claw-footed bathtub, swings around the kitchen island, and bohemian throws here, there, and everywhere. Hanging egg chairs on the terrace and an oversized sunken spa tub invite you to banish your worries. Events are welcome at this party-friendly cabin with prior approval.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $390 per night

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Woodland Hobbit-inspired tiny house in the Smokies

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Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Inspired by Bag End, this tiny house in Gatlinburg, TN, on Airbnb will go down a storm with Tolkein fans. Step through the round doorway into your open-plan living space that fuses rural charms with modern conveniences. A snug bedroom slots into the mezzanine and you have a fully functioning bathroom below. Your backyard is fitted with a firepit emblazoned with Elvish script. Dogs are welcome at this pet-friendly woodland retreat.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $130 per night

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