Matador Network's Blog, page 493

Flying a Prop Plane Is Easier and Cheaper Than You’d Think. Here Are 7 Things To Know Before a Lesson.

There are certain activities that seem like they should require some prerequisites – climbing frozen waterfalls or attempting a 25-mile day hike, for example – but somehow don’t have any. And that includes taking flying lessons, which requires absolutely no prior education or experience. That may shock the average person, but adventurous travelers probably already know that one of the best ways to challenge yourself is to dive head-first into something brand new in the outdoors. And fortunately, all that’s required to start flying lessons is an open mind (assuming you don’t have acrophobia, of course!)

But of course, schools aren’t going to hand a fueled plane over and say “figure it out” – flying lessons are always under the guidance of a professional instructor. But considering how high-tech planes are and how dangerous it can be to fly one incorrectly, beginner flying lessons are relatively low-pressure and not nearly as expensive as you’d think.

That said, it does help to know what to expect. I took a flying lesson with 7:47 Aviation near the Finger Lakes Region in New York State. Here are seven things you’re probably wondering about before your flying lessons — but if you know these, you can count on smooth sailing the entire time.

Photo: Jessica Kelly

1. Wait, can you really just sign up for a flying lesson?

Yes, you really can! You don’t even need a driver’s license. But you will probably have to do a little more advanced planning than if you were just going for a guided hike. According to Jim Spaller, 7:47 Aviation owner, many flight lesson companies are small businesses – like, one or two people small. He says that he’ll occasionally bring in help in the busy season, but he teaches most of the flights independently. There’s a limit to how many students an instructor can take out in a day or weekend, so try to search for “flying lessons near me” as soon as you decide to take to the skies. The sooner, the better.

2. How much do flying lessons cost?

It depends where you are, but they’re probably not as expensive as you’d think. In New York, Spaller’s flying lessons start at $150 for a 40-minute intro flight or $230 for a one-hour flight.

Most planes are small, but you may be able to bring a guest, so ask your operator if you’re interested in having someone watch you fly. Spaller offers students the opportunity to take one guest up at no cost, but other companies may charge a small fee. Many shops will also offer two-person lessons, during which you’ll land halfway through to allow the pilot and guest to swap seats

3. Can you take just one lesson?

You certainly can, though the introductory flying lessons are usually intended to give you a taste of flying and be a gateway to taking a longer licensing program. But you can absolutely take the intro class (or classes) without furthering your flying education beyond that.

The planes used for flying lessons are quite small, like this four-person Cherokee Cruiser. Photo: Igor Grochev/Shutterstoc

4. What do I need to know about flying before my lesson?

It may be hard to believe, but you don’t need to know anything about planes to take a flying lesson. Spaller stresses that there are no prerequisites and nothing to study beforehand. That said, since the controls span the pilot and co-pilot seat, you can expect the licensed pilot to do the heavy lifting when it comes to taking off, taxiing, and landing. But it’s on you when it comes to being in the air, usually. “Typically, they end up flying 95 percent of the flight and I just kind of sit there and point things out to them,” says Spaller. “I really want them to get the full experience. I have controls on my side, too, for emergencies and landing, but they’re doing the majority of the work.”

5. Is it like driving a car?

Not one bit. “Guests are surprised to learn that the majority of the flying and taxiing is done with foot controls,” says Spaller. “Your feet should be active the whole time.” Even when the hand controls do come into play, your hands and feet are working in concert. “I sometimes tell people to put their hands on their knees because I don’t want people reaching out touching the controls,” Spaller explained. “It doesn’t do anything except make your feet stop doing what they’re supposed to be doing when you have the habitual reaction to reach for the hand controls.”

6. What’s the scenery like?

Photo: cpaulfell/Shutterstock

That depends entirely on where you take your flying lesson. In New York, we were able to get a birds-eye view of the state’s famous lakes. But since the small planes you’ll fly in stay relatively close to the ground (compared to commercial aviation, at least), you’ll be able to see the surrounding area better than you’d think. It’s not uncommon to spot wildlife in rural places like Alaska or Minnesota, or you could fly over vineyards in California and coastal areas in Louisiana. But try not to get distracted – you’re supposed to focus on flying, after all.

7. How do I find flying lessons near me?

It can be a little tricky to find a nearby one-time flying lesson rather than full courses. But the easiest way is just to search for “flying lessons” near either a major city or the state you’ll be in. If you don’t see any that advertise one-time or one-hour lessons, just email or call the results that do come up (which likely be for flight schools) and just ask them for recommendations. The private flight instructor community is pretty small and you’ll likely find that most schools know someone to recommend.

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Terrible at Directions? New Study Finds Why You May Get Lost so Easily When Traveling.

After living in New York City for five years, there were still inevitably times that I would exit a subway station I regularly used and turn the wrong way. New research suggests that might not have been entirely because of my reliance on Google Maps or an inherent inability to navigate.

Where you grew up may have a large impact on your spatial navigation ability, according to a recent study from scientists at the Laboratoire d’Informatique en Image et Systèmes d’Information in Lyon, France, and the Institute of Behavioural Neurosciences at University College London.

City folk who feel they have a strong grasp on getting around may be in for a surprise. The study found that people who grew up in the countryside had a better sense of direction on average than those raised in cities. This was especially true for people who grew up in the United States, Canada, Argentina, and Saudi Arabia. Those raised in Austria, France, India, and Vietnam, however, saw less of a difference between rural and city.

As might be expected, people also tend to be better at navigating places similar to the one they experienced as a child. For example, people who traversed backroads in a rural area when young are better at doing the same even in new rural areas. City kids, on the other hand, grow up to better know how to navigate cities. The study also found that people from rural areas are better at navigating great distances.

The same results can be brought down to a more specific level. People used to getting around grid cities like Chicago or New York (at least, the parts of the city that’re in a grid) more easily adapt to other cities in a grid. Cities with lots of angles like Paris led to people better navigating more complex cities.

Researchers used the video game Sea Hero Quest, which is used to study Alzheimer’s, for its study. Nearly 400,000 participants in 38 countries memorized the game map and set objectives to see how well they did.

Of course, knowing how to navigate areas similar to where you grew up isn’t the only thing that goes into a sense of direction. Always having a map in your pocket that you can rely on for immediate, up-to-date information means people don’t really have to think too much about how to get around or use public transportation.

Some might look at this research and resign themselves to a life of wandering and wrong turns. That’s ok. There’s (often) nothing wrong with living the flaneur lifestyle of getting out there without thinking twice about how you’ll get to a location when you’re visiting somewhere new.

And thankfully, those who trend toward getting lost can always just pull out Google Maps.

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CDC Says It’s Now Safe To Cruise. Here’s How To Find Where Your Ship Ranks on COVID Protocols.

For many people in the United States, COVID cases on cruise ships were one of the first signs that the pandemic was going to drastically change travel. The cruise industry was hit particularly hard as advisories went out cautioning people to avoid cruising. Yesterday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officially lifted that anti-cruising recommendation.

This marks the first time since the start of the pandemic in 2020 that the CDC hasn’t actively advised people against cruise ships.

“CDC is removing the COVID-19 Cruise Ship Travel Health Notice,” CDC spokesperson Dave Daigle told USA Today. “Travelers will make their own risk assessment when choosing to travel on a cruise ship, much like they do in all other travel settings.”

This comes a little less than a month after the CDC moved the cruise ship travel health notice to the “moderate” Level 2 risk. That allowed interactive experiences like cooking classes and other events.

To be fair to the cruise industry, there has been more negative attention directed toward ships versus other methods of transportation. Air travel, for example, has been on the rebound for months and the CDC has generally opted for suggesting people take the risks they’re comfortable with instead of suggesting they avoid all flights entirely. The new cruise initiative is similar — the CDC recommends full vaccination and following each cruise line’s protocols, including mask mandates.

Anyone curious about how this will impact them — and whether the cruise they intend to go on is on the safer side — can use the CDC’s COVID-19 Program for Cruise Ships.

The database assigns a color to ships depending on the number of cases reported, public health measures, and any investigations. Of 106 ships, 105 are participating in the CDC’s COVID program for cruise ships, and 102 ships in US waters have at least a 95 percent passenger vaccination rate.

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9 Tips To Get Through Airport Security Faster Than Everyone Else, Straight From Frequent Fliers

Thanks to recent upgrades in the past few years, standing in line to go through airport security in the US isn’t as much of a gamble as it was a few years ago. With services like TSA PreCheck, travelers can use security lines that require a bit less undressing and unpacking, and there’s even a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) App that can show you how long the TSA wait times are in real-time, effectively helping you plan whether you really need to arrive to the airport two hours early.

But helpful apps and services aside, facing long TSA wait times is still frustrating and annoying. And at some airports (looking at you, Denver and LAX), the lines always seem to be long, regardless of when you arrive.

So we asked a variety of frequent travelers and travel experts for tips on how to cut down on the TSA wait times and get to the gate faster than everyone else — and no, “get TSA PreCheck” isn’t one of them (although you really should). If we all try to follow a few of these suggestions, we can contribute to the greater good — and that greater good is getting everyone through TSA with time to grab an airport beer before takeoff.

1. Use airline phone apps, not paper tickets (especially with families)

Photo: Jacob Lund/Shutterstock

Crystal Romo is a flight attendant with American Airlines. While she has an employee security entrance she normally uses, she’s occasionally sent through the regular TSA line and subject to random security checks. The one thing she’s noticed that slows down lines are families using paper tickets for each person.

“Every day, I see passengers fumble or fly with different levels of preparedness. My best advice is a simple one: download the app of the airline you are flying with so that you can easily pull up your boarding information. I see so many families scrambling while trying to provide the correct physical boarding passes. Airline apps provide multiple scannable boarding passes and you can have all of them on one phone, as well as the most updated flight and gate information, so it takes the thinking out of it. It might not seem like a huge time-saver, but imagine if every passenger was using the digitized process. Think of the collective hours that would be saved.”

2. Don’t stay in a long line

“Once you pass the TSA agent [who checks your ID], look for nearby shorter and faster-moving lines,” says Will Pattiz, co-founder and videographer for More Than Just Parks. “There’s no official rule that says you have to stay in the lane you’re in once you’re past the TSA ID checkpoint. I even count the number of people in each one to best make my decision.”

3. When in doubt, take it off

Even if you’re 90 percent sure your jewelry or shoes won’t set off the scanners (in the pre-check line or otherwise), just take ’em off.  “For PreCheck and non-PreCheck members, ensure nothing is in your pockets when going through the scanner and take off anything in the past that may have triggered an alert such as a watch or necklace,” says Phil Dengler of TheVacationer.com. And it should go without saying that you should remove items like your belt, earrings, and contents of your pockets while waiting in line, not while you’re standing in front of the scanner and delaying everyone else.

4. Pull out any remotely questionable liquids

Photo: Monkey Business ImagesShutterstock

Nicole Hunter, travel blogger and founder of Go Far Grow Close, says that if your small liquids look remotely close to the 3.4 oz limit, you should expect TSA to pull them out — so save them the trouble. “Pull out any liquid, lotion, or aerosol cans that look close to 100 ml or 3.4 oz (the maximum amount allowed in your hand luggage) and place them in a separate clear plastic bag at the top of your bag. The security staff will want to confirm that they are all compliant.”

5. Stop using the plastic bins

This tip is simple: “don’t bother with any bins or containers unless required,” says Brendan King, who takes at least 100 flights a year in his role as a live entertainment consultant. If you have pre-check, you probably don’t need to use a bin at all — just put your bag directly on the conveyer belt. You can also put everything you removed from your pockets in your bag; there’s no need to put small coins or phones in their own bin. You can even put your jacket directly on the belt (usually), but be sure to put it in front of your heavier bag to ensure it gets pushed through the flaps of the scanner. If you have to take off your shoes you can also skip the bin. As per the TSA website, “All removed footwear should be placed soles down on the x-ray conveyor belt or in a bin with nothing in, on, or under the footwear.”

Elijah Burton, FedEx Pilot and former Alaska Airlines pilot, offers another tip for skipping the bins: wear a jacket with tons of pockets. “When taking off [items that may set off alarms], stuff them in the pockets before removing your jacket. This will make retrieving your items at the other side of TSA a breeze. You’ll have all your items on you and won’t be that one person holding up the line grabbing all your trinkets and loose items from the bin.”

6. Put your shoes through first

Not an ideal footwear choice. Photo: Daniskim/Shutterstock

If you have to remove your shoes, putting them through the security scanner has an extra benefit beyond just ensuring they don’t get stuck: it helps you get to your gate faster. “If you are traveling without TSA PreCheck, always put your shoes in a bin on the conveyor first. Since they will come out first, you can put your shoes back on and grab your small bag while you wait for your larger bag to come through the screening machine. This way when your larger bag arrives you’re ready to just grab it and go,” says Christy Clifton, a consultant and owner of FlipFlopsAbroad.com. Oh, and it should go without saying, but don’t wear shoes you have to lace up or otherwise tie.

7. Pack your small tech together in one smaller bag

I travel for work, and pack my computer and quite a few tech accessories,” says Kate McCulley, Travel Publisher at NewHampshireWay.com. “At certain airports, my bag gets pulled aside because of the volume of electronics in it. And because most airports don’t tell you to remove anything beyond your computer, many people get caught waiting for their bag to go through multiple times. To prevent this, I’ve started packing all my electronics, cords, and hard drives into a packing cube and removing it from my bag when going through security. I haven’t had to send it through a second time since, even at Heathrow, the airport that usually gives me the hardest time.”

8. Don’t overpack camera gear

Don’t overpack or layer your camera gear, even if it’s technically allowed. Photo: ElevenStudio/Shutterstock

According to Lauren Breedlove, freelance travel photographer and writer, just because your camera gear fits in your bag doesn’t mean it won’t get stopped — TSA usually doesn’t like electronics stacked atop one another. “Even though I have a lot of camera gear, I try to only bring the necessities and avoid stacking or cramming too much in my carry-on camera bag. If it’s too jam-packed, I’ve found it usually has to go through again or be opened up and looked through. Having your lenses detached from your camera body can sometimes make the process easier as well. ”

9. Check a bag

Checking a bag can be a pain point if your bag comes out last at the baggage carousel, but the trade-off is that it saves you time with TSA. It’s a lot quicker for a TSA agent to scan a small bag with just a tablet, sweater, and cell phone than it is an overstuffed bag with multiple layers of clothing, shoes, and accessories. And if you have any kind of airline status or airline credit card, check the fine print on benefits. You may find that your checked luggage gets marked as “priority,” which generally means it arrives in the luggage carousels before everyone else’s bags.

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Stay at These Incredibly Unique Hotels Near John F. Kennedy International Airport

JOHN F. KENNEDY International Airport is a beacon from America’s largest city to the world. Located in Queens, New York, not far from Rockaway Beach and Arthur Ashe Stadium, the airport is a major hub for flights across the Atlantic, as well as continental flights in all directions. Due to its urban location, there is no defined “airport hotel village” at JFK like there is for hotels near the Denver airport – but that doesn’t mean there aren’t great hotels near JFK Airport. These are the most convenient JFK Airport hotels with the best amenities and overall experience, whether you’re simply looking for an overnight before or after a long travel day or are in town for a few days and want to stay near the airport.

We hope you love the hotels near JFK Airport 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.

Hotel inside JFK AirportTWA Hotel at JFK

Photo: TWA Hotel

Photo: TWA Hotel

Photo: TWA Hotel

Photo: TWA Hotel

An ode to the sixties and the glory days of TWA, the TWA Hotel at JFK tops any list of top airport hotels in the world. Guests can board a retro TWA plane onsite, enjoy the walk-in pool overlooking the tarmac, or grab a drink in the ski-themed apres-swim bar (themed like an apres-ski bar) on the rooftop. There’s also a roller rink, a sunken lounge, and a gift shop stocked with throw-back merchandise. Even if you weren’t around for the glory days of flying, a stay here at the TWA Hotel is an experience worth having. Rooms feature vintage rotary phones and red retro fittings, kind of like your Grandma’s place but with modern amenities like WiFi and more than two electric outlets.

This hotel also accommodates guests on long layovers. You can rent a room for up to four hours during the hours of 6 AM and 8 PM, and enjoy the ambiance without spending the night. The massive (and bright red) gym is full service and inarguably the greatest hotel gym in the world – so good, in fact, that locals buy monthly memberships in order to gain access.

Price: From $259

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Hotels near JFK AirportHyatt Regency JFK Airport

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Located adjacent to the Aquaduct Racetrack and just a few miles from the hotel, the Hyatt Regency JFK Airport is a unique take on an airport hotel stay. It’s quite nice – with high-thread-count sheets in the rooms and a classy cocktail bar and restaurant in the lobby. There are also slot machines and games onsite in the casino resort, in case you’re feeling lucky before heading out to catch your flight. The marketplace and cafe is excellent for a quick meal, and the entire resort property is enough to warrant a visit to NYC in its own right – so be sure to walk around and check it out.

Price: From $249 per night

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Crowne Plaza JFK Airport New York City

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

If you’ve stayed at a Crowne Plaza hotel, you know that the experience is one to look forward to. A far departure from the drab hotel village mainstays, the Crowne Plaza JFK Airport New York City is a high-tier property with everything you could want on-site. The Idlewild Restaurant serves three meals a day, the WiFi is stellar, and the rooms are comfortably quiet. The breakfast spread is leagues beyond the standard continental. The overall experience is clean, professional, and efficient.

Price: From $186 per night

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Hotel 95 – JFK Airport

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

What separates JFK from most major airports is the fact that when it comes to airport hotels, there are so many boutique options that there’s no need to settle for a roadside motel. Take the Hotel 95 – JFK Airport. Located a few minutes from the airport in Queens’ Jamaica district, the hotel features cozy room with great views that get better the higher up you stay in the hotel. Room service is available for early and late arrivals. The building’s ambiance gives you the feel that you live in a well-kept Queens high-rise, complete with easy access to public transit and a solid breakfast buffet. Book a room with a balcony for the true New York experience.

Price: From $78 per night

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Hotel Mint JFK Airport

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Few hotels embody the Queens and Rockaway Beach experience like the Hotel Mint JFK Airport. Boutique, cozy, and convenient for access to Rockaway Beach, the airport, and tons of great food and drink, this property perfect if you plan to spend a couple nights but want to stay near the airport. Public transit is right there for ventures outside the neighborhood, and moving about Queens is simple by taxi and on foot, as well. Rooms are small and efficient, but clean and very well put together.

Price: From $89 per night

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Hilton New York JFK Airport Hotel

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Enjoy Hilton luxury right near JFK. The Hilton New York JFK Airport features two restaurants with a globe-spanning menu, The indoor pool and gym are tops among hotels near JFK Airport, and the breakfast buffet follows suit. This property is known for its excellent staff, a trademark of the brand, which is particularly helpful in Queens if you plan to get out and explore – there aren’t as many tourists around as there are in Brooklyn or Manhattan, and as such, not as many signs. In-room, you’ll find lightning-fast WiFi, a work desk, and a 42-inch flatscreen television. Hilton Honors points can be earned and redeemed here. Arriving early or late? Stop by the hotel’s marketplace for a quick snack or drink of choice.

Price: From $194 per night

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Residence Inn by Marriott New York JFK Airport

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Residence Inn by Marriott New York JFK Airport puts you in an apartment-style room in the heart of Queens. There’s no better way to feel like a local, making this hotel near JFK Airport the best option for business travelers and pairs who don’t want to share a bed (or even a bedroom). You’ll enjoy a kitchen and living room, an onsite cafe and bar, and an outdoor garden complete with a fire pit. Rooms have plush beds, a work desk, and enough space to settle in for a few days without feeling cramped. Plus, enjoy either the buffet or American-style breakfast in the morning.

Price: From $239 per night

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The 10 Best Bachelorette Party Destinations in the US

The best bachelorette party destinations in the US deserve a special on Animal Planet. Cue raspy Australian narrator with a husky accent:

“There they are in the wild, folks. Seven…no…ten American girls have been spotted landing here at Nashville International Airport. If it’s not obvious by their fluorescent pink ‘I’m With The Bride, Betches!’ matching T-shirts, watch their targeted movements straight from the plane to that bourbon bar before baggage claim. Are they…no! They are taking shots of bourbon at 8:34 AM! What a spotting!”

Alright. While American bachelorette parties may not have solicited a spot on daytime TV just yet, there is no denying that these weekend-long gal-pal galavants have created a revolution in themselves. In fact, it was back in the rebellious 1960s that brides-to-be began embracing their feminine sexuality and forgoing bridal showers for bachelorette parties–and yes, the raunchier, the better.

By the 1980s, the term “bachelorette party” became more normalized in everyday culture and, more importantly, a giant step towards gender equality. Men have been celebrating their last day of freedom since the 5th century B.C. when the ancient Spartans would hold a dinner with corny speeches. Seriously.

According to The Knot, 78 percent of females have a bachelorette party before the nuptials. And who wouldn’t want to let loose with the bride tribe in a new environment before a lifelong commitment? And while phallic symbols, drinking games, and male strippers may be the most widely recognized symbols of bachelorette parties these days, that’s far from all. Take a look at some of the best bachelorette party destinations in the US — and yes, penis straws welcome.

We hope you love the spaces and 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. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.

1. Nashville

Photo: The Pool Club at Virgin Hotels Nashville/Facebook

There’s a reason why Nashville is the Mecca of all bachelorette parties (and why the nickname “Smashville” resonates so profoundly). Not only is Music City geographically centered for all the ladies flying in, but the parties are centralized as well. If you want to be gung-ho in the midst of Nashville’s action, stay in the central Broadway district, home to honkey-tonks and the cowboy-booty-short-denim-shirt combo.

What to do

We suggest starting at one of the more tame honey-tonks like Tootsie’s Orchard Lounge for country tunes and dollar PBRs during the day to soak in the Hank Williams-y vibes before heading to the more notorious rooftops lining Broadway at night.

If you’re looking to escape the music, consider heading out of town with the girls — dually working off all that fried chicken and taking in the city skyline from a standup paddleboard or kayak. If you’re looking for a brain teaser, join River Queen Voyages for their Ultimate River Scavenger Hunt, a scavenger hunt by kayak. And music enthusiast or not, you should spend one of the days exploring The Country Music Hall of Fame, the definitive home of country music. Yeehaw!

Where to eat and drink

“Meat and three” (a piece of meat and three mouthwateringly fatty sides) is basically a religion in Nashville, so you must add greasily delicious Hattie B’s Hot Chicken into any bachelorette itinerary (especially after a night of heavy drinking). Swap the denim shorts for cocktail dresses and make a reservation for Fable Lounge, a newly opened speakeasy-style restaurant in Nashville’s West End.

Where to stay

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Try this centrally located Airbnb bursting with bohemian vibes for convenience, space, and funky décor.

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If luxury is the priority for your bachelorette shenanigans, check out this well-stocked townhouse has 11 beds and stunning downtown views.

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2. Napa Valley

Photo: Shutterstock/Cheng Cheng

Wine’ding down with the bride squad in Napa Valley for a bachelorette doesn’t seem too shabby. But this destination is much larger than one may anticipate — planning takes knowledge on where to make a home base, from downtown Napa to Sonoma, Calistoga, Healdsburg, Saint Helena, and other quaint towns. Wherever you wind up, Napa Valley makes for a stellar long weekend girls’ getaway, whether you’re a group of oenophiles sniffing tannins or simply wanting to clink celebratory glasses in balmy weather.

What to do

Drink wine, duh. But if you’re going all out for the weekend, you can even step it up a notch. Exhibit A: Rent a private limo and saunter between expensive tasting rooms, sounding sophisticated with comments like “green apple, no?” while simultaneously getting pleasantly buzzed. Some of our favorite wineries for tastings include the VIP Appellation Exploration Tour at HALL Rutherford Estate and Tank Garage Winery, a modern-yet-vintage gas station winery. Fill us up!

Where to eat and drink

Finding selections for all palates shant be difficult in Napa. If your group has the budget, make a reservation at Thomas Keller’s The French Laundry, a rustic, two-story cottage that serves French cuisine dubbed “the best in the world” by the late Anthony Bourdain. If a tad more budget-conscious, explore Oxbow Public Market, Napa’s dynamic collection of artisan restaurants and shops.

Where to stay

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

If your group is a tad more, erm, presidential, consider a stay at the White House Napa Valley Inn, a boutique hotel in the heart of Napa that is available for exclusive buyout only. This property is most suitable for larger bachelorette groups, with 17 ensuite bedrooms, a full-time staff, and even a private chef catering meals.

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Initially built in the 1930s and recently remodeled, this designer home is located in downtown Napa, providing optimal ease for bachelorettes looking to galavant around Wine Country sans transport.

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3. Los Angeles

Photo: Ingus Kruklitis/Shutterstock

Native Angelinos and out-of-towners alike will be impressed with how Los Angeles brings the heat, quite literally, for any bachelorette weekend. The City of Angels is the optimal escape for brides who want cosmopolitan energy fused with rooftop pools, boozy brunches, and shopping.

What to do

Sporty groups will enjoy the hike — and inevitable I.G. caption quoting LaLa Land — to the Hollywood sign. But with its Hollywood allure and some of the most expensive zip codes in the country, your bride tribe can be closer to celebrity action by grabbing bar seats at Mr. Chow or booking a private cabana at The Beverly Hilton, where celebs frequent. Pinkies up!

Where to eat and drink

Grab a drink on the rooftop of the Freehand Downtown LA before enjoying Israeli-inspired cuisine at The Exchange. If you’re really looking to mingle with the rich and famous, head to The BLVD in Beverly Hills and ask for a corner patio table.

Where to stay

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Ornate details from Morocco marry with that Hollywood modishness in this luxury three-bedroom estate. Perched atop a hill in the heart of Hollywood, this Airbnb is the ideal choice for the cinephile bachelorette.

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For a legitimately mystical experience, book the former Los Angeles home of Harry Houdini, a five-acre estate that is just as quirky and cool as it sounds: we’re talking hidden passageways, caves, tunnels, and even a deep-water tank where Houdini reportedly practiced his underwater escapes.

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4. Palm Springs

Photo: Patricia Elaine Thomas/Shutterstock

Whether it’s due to the year-round sunny weather, those postcard-worthy palm trees that sashay in the desert wind, or the plethora of restaurants, hotels, and spas, Palm Springs has fast become one of the nation’s most renowned bachelorette destinations. A short flight from most West Coast cities, Palm Springs is a convenient meeting place for the gals. But the convenience is deceptive — you’ll feel worlds away from California’s closest metropolis, basking in a true desert oasis.

What to do

The natural beauty of Palm Springs should be integrated into every bachelorette itinerary. Take this half-day tour, which begins with 10 miles on a bike, steadily climbing to the Andreas Canyon trailhead before turning into a scenic hike that crosses through rock formations and a canopy of native palm trees. Book a three-hour program with Desert Adventures Red Jeep Tours and Events if your crew isn’t afraid to get a smidge dirty. This eco-tour company whisks passengers to the San Andreas Fault, a quite literal continental transform fault snaking through Cali — its learning, but chic!

If your squad requires some major chill time post-Jeep-bumps, book massages at Spa Rancho Las Palmas. If you’re down to explore downtown Palm Springs in style, book an Instagram-worthy Sunny Cycle tour, where your group will make ten-person bike-riding look somewhat chic.

Where to eat and drink

For refreshing margaritas and the best shrimp ceviche tostadas you’ve ever had, check out El Jefe in the boutique (and Rubik’s Cube-level colorful) Saguaro Hotel downtown. For some Californian New American cuisine (because, duh, you’re in Cali), reserve a group table at BluEmber at Omni Rancho Las Palmas. And if the Caramel French Toast at Wilma & Frieda doesn’t hit the hangover spot, we don’t know what will.

Where to stay

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

If charming mountainside villas are your crew’s style, book this five-bedroom mountainside retreat in Palm Desert, complete with a movie theatre, private pool, and epic sunset views.

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Bask in Palm Spring’s glamour with a stay at this contemporary vacation home, surrounded by the literal pinnacle of the region’s astonishing nature: rugged mountains hugging lush fairways.

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Looking for an Airbnb for your bachelorette? Check out Matador’s guides:

The Best Airbnbs in Nashville for a Bachelorette Getaway The 8 Best Palm Springs Airbnbs for a Bachelorette Party To Remember 10 Luxurious Airbnbs for Your Napa Valley Bachelorette Party 12 Airbnbs in Charleston for a Bachelorette Party Filled With Southern Charm 10 luxurious Airbnbs for your Napa Valley bachelorette party

5. New Orleans

Photo: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Forget Mardi Gras. New Orleans is a seductive beast of a city, where drinking, merriment, and eating are celebrated 24/7. Bachelorettes looking to dive into a culturally rich Southern city while simultaneously diving into a to-go Hurricane cocktail (and yes, drinking in public is legal here) will fall in lust with Nola.

What to do

New Orleans is magnetic for drawing in riveting humans, which makes it the perfect city to people-watch. Stroll up and down Bourbon Street with the ladies, absorbing the color, the whiffs of praline, and the general weirdness. If you’re really looking for the spins (in not an “I just had three tequila shots and can’t see straight” kind of way), check out the beloved Carousel Bar & Lounge. For decades, it has lured guests in for a whirl on the bright, circus-clad 25-seat merry-go-round.

Where to eat and drink

If your crew is looking for the ultimate NOLA brunch, reserve a spot at The Court of Two Sisters in the French Quarter for Creole and Cajun cuisine and accompanying live jazz. You can’t leave N’awlins without waiting in the inevitably long line at Cafe du Monde, the famed French coffee stand, for a beignet.

Where to stay

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This exquisitely-decorated home, complete with a covered outdoor patio, is the impeccable remodel of the Historic Bakery in the Marigny Triangle and blocks from French Quarter and Frenchmen Street’s (in)famous music halls.

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And the open layout of the Robertson Mansion, with 12-foot ceilings and seven spacious bedrooms, takes the (Mardi Gras King) cake for bachelorette parties.

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6. Scottsdale

Photo: BCFC/Shutterstock

If you’ve ever visited Scottsdale on a Saturday afternoon, you’ll notice that the arid desert climate is not keeping folks from donning cowboy hats and partying. Of course, there is one group you’ll always spot without difficulties: the Scottsdale bachelorette parties. Scottsdale is one of the best bachelorette party destinations in the US for brides looking for parties, natural adventures, and sun for almost 350 days a year. And prickly pear ice cream — thank us later.

What to do

Take your bride tribe on an Arizona Party Bike tour of the inner city, where you’ll stop at two or three local bars and enjoy pedaling (or pretending to pedal, if you’re the diva) the rest of the time. Head to the W Scottsdale, one of the most revered hotels in town. On Saturdays and Sundays, reserve a table on their WET Deck, which lives up to its raunchy name with free-flowing bottles, D.J.s, and many a skimpy bikini.

If you’re looking out of the box for ideas, head over to Arizona Goat Yoga, where you and the gals will enjoy Downward Dog with miniature goats on your back. Talk about the horn-y bachelorette experience you never knew you needed.

Where to eat and drink

Feeling the hangover? Head to the Hash Kitchen for Scottsdale’s most buzzy brunch and DIY Bloody Mary bar. Head to the newly opened Senna House Hotel for a vibe and reserve a patio seat at CALA for modern Mediterranean cuisine. If you’re looking for healthier options, head to The Herb Box for some swanky fusion dishes.

Where to stay

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Within walking distance of Scottsdale’s Old Town, bachelorette guests of this three-bedroom home will appreciate cooling off in the property’s in-ground pool and accompanying waterfall.

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Another Airbnb choice is the aptly named Casa Solara, tucked in Scottdale’s suburbs with the sun shining more than 330 days per year. Pack your bathing suit and athletic shoes–this four-bedroom property includes a resort-like backyard with a swimming pool, jacuzzi, and tennis court.

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7. Charleston

Photo: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

If that genuine Southern hospitality, storied history, and Instagrammable rainbow-colored architecture are what you seek for your bachelorette, we know where to go: south to Charleston, the zenith of Antebellum charm in South Carolina.

What to do

If the bride can’t decide between a beach getaway or a lavish cosmopolitan rendezvous, Charleston brings both with heat. Spend the morning in the sand with the girls before getting twisted into yoga positions. Head onto King Street as dusk fades into the night for a cocktail crawl.

Where to eat and drink

Gourmands will be in such Southern foodie heaven in Charleston that they may not know where to begin. In fact, Charleston boasts more James Beard winners per capita than any other city in the US. That’s why many bachelorette itineraries will include some unofficial form of restaurant and bar-hopping. Must-tries include soul food from Bertha’s Kitchen and The Cocktail Club, a bespoke speakeasy with a cheeky cocktail called “Send Nudes.” We’ll take two, please.

Where to stay

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This luxurious four-bedroom residential home is ideal for discerning bachelorette parties, melding contemporary, coastal design while maintaining the cherished charm of old historic Charleston — like a sizeable Southern porch with a swing bed.

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Check out this five-bedroom oceanfront retreat with ample recreational opportunities, including kayaking, biking, and boating for a beachier vibe.

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8. San Diego

Photo: Dancestrokes/Shutterstock

Out-of-towners may stereotype it as a sleepy SoCal beach town, but rest assured, San Diego can party. The pedestrian-only Little Italy neighborhood isn’t where you go for homemade meatballs and nonna’s restaurant. Friday and Saturday nights here mean business, with restaurants and patios luring in fun-seekers until the wee hours.

What to do

You’ll likely spend most of your time soaking in those SoCal vibes, strolling the boardwalks at Pacific Beach, imbibing in the occasional beach beer, and (not so) suavely checking out the behinds of the surfers hanging ten. If you’ve all gotten your share of U.V. rays, book group facials at Shop Good and massages at Saffron & Sage. And if you’re really digging the idea of old-school glamour, spend a day laying out at the iconic pool of La Jolla’s La Valencia Hotel, a getaway for the Hollywood elite since the 1920s, perched cliffside over the sparkling Pacific.

Where to eat and drink

For a dressed-up dinner with the gals, try Camino Riveria with a sultry Riviera Maya-like atmosphere, short skirts, and bottle service. Don’t miss Miss B’s Coconut Club for a tropical-inspired brunch or Puesto for the best Mexican north of the border. And ease into the evening playing arcade games and sipping craft beers at The Smoking Gun.

Where to stay

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This sleek residential home on Imperial Beach is the ideal temporary retreat from the San Diego party scene, with a spacious porch opening onto a very SoCal beach.

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And for the quintessential girly bachelorette, book a stay at this modern beach house in Oceanside, revered for its bright pink entrance. This four-bedroom house grants privacy in an otherwise lively area, with surfers catching waves on the jetty or nightlife aficionados hitting the town.

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9. The Hawaiian Islands

Photo: E.J.Johnson Photography/Shutterstock

If your girl crew wants to feel like you’ve traveled across the world without leaving the US, head to Hawaii and hit up one of the more chill bachelorette party destinations in the US. While Hawaii wouldn’t be the state for crews looking to party until 4:00 AM, it will provide great bonding outdoor activities for intrepid spirits seeking adventure, luxury, and many a fresh fruit. Plus, with an average flight time of 45 minutes between islands, you’ll be able to hop about and explore diverse cultures and landscapes.

What to do

Packing hiking shoes is a must for any Hawaii bachelorette. On the island of Kauai, rent a car with the gals and explore some of the remote scenery of the Napali Coast and Waimea Canyon, locally known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Hop on over to Maui to zipline, whale watch, or do some sunset salutations on the beach.

And if you really want to impress the bride squad with your travel knowledge, take a boat from Maui over to Lanai, where you can destress with massages at The Four Seasons Lanai or even charter an all-you-can-drink sunset catamaran. Who says you have to wait for your honeymoon for peak romance?

Where to eat and drink

Don’t miss the poke and Mai Tais at KŌ, Maui’s intriguing hotspot for Hawaiian cultural fusion. And in Kauai, grab a Puka Dog, a Hawaiian-style hot dog, for dinner before watching the Hawaiian sea turtles meander onto Po’ipu Beach Park for their nightly ritual.

Where to stay

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

If your group is jonesing for a more spacious rental, consider this five-bedroom gated home in Oahu, benefitting from an open floor plan, natural light, and cool breezes streaming in from the adjacent marina.

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That expression “Life’s A Beach?” It was likely first said about this three-bedroom condo sitting squarely on Oahu’s iconic Waikiki Beach, with floor-to-ceiling infinity doors connecting the living space to the sand.

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10. Miami

Photo: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Miami is a city saturated with three of our favorite s-words: sun, sultriness, and sexy time. It combines the frenetic energy of a cosmopolitan cross-cultural town with laid-back beach town vibes.

What to do

Pick out matching bikinis with the girl squad for a day at a Hyde Beach pool party, ensuring quality tunes, tapas, and tan lines. Book group massages or facials in the comfort of your rental with Miami Spa Parties and sweat out late night-toxins (and 4:00 AM taquitos) with Bubbly Bachelorette yoga. On the beach and with bubbles. Can we be professional bachelorettes? Asking for a friend.

Where to eat and drink

Walk through Little Havana to soak in the spices, pizazz, and whiffs of frijoles negros through one of the nation’s most dynamic neighborhoods. Grab drinks at Tipsy Flamingo Cocktail Bar before heading to LIV, the multistory club in South Beach where, well, people are certainly LIV’ing it up. We’ll tell you that much.

Where to stay

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

If your crew wants to feel more local, check out this four-bedroom home with a backyard and hot tub in the Design District, near Miami Beach and downtown.

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If the bride tribe would rather have a South Beach address, consider this quaint beach oasis, a few minutes walk from the restaurants and bars of Collins Avenue, yet tucked away from the SoBe nightclub scene. Because after a night of partying hard, you’ll crave all the hangover carbs and respite from pounding house music.

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More like thisOutdoorThe 5 Best Bachelorette Party Destinations for Non-Traditional Brides

Looking To Avoid the Crowds? Study Finds the Most Popular Destinations You’ll Want To Skip.

It’s officially spring, so it’s time to get those travel plans together, especially since plane tickets are about to go up and gas prices seem to be getting ever higher. And with so many amazing cities and countries to visit, you might want to consider going on the road less traveled. Bounce, a company specializing in luggage storage, conducted a study to find the top travel destinations by country and overall search volume.

When it comes to the top city breaks by country, London and New York City tie for third place — the ultimate destination for five countries. The hustle and bustle of New York City can be found in all five of the city’s boroughs, making it easy to get lost in. And London is the obvious choice for a visit to the United Kingdom if you want to get a feel for the culture.

In second place is Dubai as the top destination for seven countries. With its luxurious hotels, resorts, and shopping experiences, the country is constantly breaking records for something bigger, better, and more unique.

And finally, in first place is Miami as the top destination for eight countries. Miami is the epitome of summer fun, granting you the luxury of clear Caribbean water without ever leaving the US. However, by Google searches, Miami ranks third with 6,528,700 Google searches. New York City ranks second with 8,743,600 Google searches. And the most Googled city destination in the world is Las Vegas, Nevada. With 9,688,600 Google searches, the strip is sure to be crowded as people flock to mega-hotels and incredible performances.

The top 10 most popular city break destinations in the worldLas Vegas — 9,688,600 Google searchesNew York City — 8,743,600 Google searchesMiami — 6,528,700 Google searchesDubai — 5,736,700 Google searchesLondon — 4,672,500 Google searchesHawaii — 4, 238,600 Google searchesOrlando — 3,334,,600 Google searchesParis — 2,975, 100 Google searchesNew Orleans — 2,902,500 Google searchesLos Angeles, 2,511,500 Google searches

When it comes to countries, Cyprus and New Zealand tie for the most popular destination in two countries, Cyprus is the most popular destination in Poland and Greece. In contrast, New Zealand is the most popular destination for Australians and New Zealanders who love their homeland. Malta was the most popular destination in four countries, and with its warm Mediterranean water and sandy beaches, it’s no wonder why. And the most popular destination in nine countries is the Maldives — somewhere know for luxury that can actually be visited on a budget if you plan right. Even though the destination is popular, it may not feel like it once you arrive at any of the luxury resorts on private islands with incredible reefs and clear water that make it a great snorkeling destination and a honeymoon from heaven. The Maldives is also the number one most searched destination worldwide, with 2,457,200 making plans. India is the second most searched for country with 1,478,300 searches. Visitors flock to sites and activities like the Taj Mahal, Golden Temple, and yoga retreats. And the third most searched destination is Singapore, with 1,224,500 Google searches.

The top 10 most popular country destinations in the worldMaldives — 2,457,200 Google searchesIndia — 1,478,300 Google searchesSingapore — 1,224,500 Google searchesCosta Rica — 1,067,300 Google searchesMexico — 1, 059,000 Google searchesJapan — 1,051,200 Google searchesJamaica — 1,021,900 Google searchesGreece — 998,200 Google searchesBahamas — 957,000 Google searchesAustrailia — 867,000 Google searches

To find out the most popular cities and countries to travel to in the world and the most popular city and country travel destinations in every country, Bounce used Google Keyword Planner to find the total number of Google searches for “flights to,” “hotels in,” and “vacations to” every country in the world and 65 of the most popular city vacation destinations from February 2021 to January 2022.

More like thisCOVID-19Everywhere Americans Can Travel Without a COVID-19 Test Right Now

This Company Will Pay for Your Gas To Camp at a National Park This Summer

Gas prices have become a giant pain in everyone’s wallet across the country. And although US prices are, surprisingly, not as high as in other parts of the world, it’s still enough to wonder if a summer road trip to a national park is worth it. But have no fear — Under Canvas, a glamping company, wants to comp the gas for your ride.

Under Canvas wants to “Fuel Your Adventure” by offering $100 off your stay to cover your gas to any one of its 10 locations — including Yellowstone, Mount Rushmore, and the Grand Canyon. To take advantage, all you have to do is book a stay for two nights or more between now and June 30, 2022. Then, use the code FUEL100 at checkout or call 888-496-1148 to book your stay. The offer ends on April 4, 2022.

Under Canvas is the perfect solution for those of us who are not, well, excited about the concept of trading fancy hotels and resorts for sleeping on a dirt floor. These Instagram-worthy canvas tents are decked out with king-size beds and linens, private or shared bathrooms with hot water and eco-conscious body products, and wood-fired stoves to stay warm along with firepits with complimentary smores. What they don’t have is air-conditioning or heaters, electric outlets (though there are battery packs), or wifi, so you’ll be encouraged to put your phones and laptops down and instead connect with nature.

If glamping is not your thing, Town and Country, a stunning boutique hotel in San Diego, California, is gifting you the “Free Ride” package — $50 towards gas and free parking for a two-night stay. And the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island in Amelia Island, Florida, is offering the “Beach Road Trip.” This package includes your choice of overnight accommodations for two nights at 20 percent off, with complimentary valet parking and a $100 hotel credit for food, drinks, and other amenities on the property. You can’t lose choosing one of these beach adventures.

More like thisParks + WildernessThe Best National Parks for Every Type of Traveler

The best Wi-Fi on US airlines

If you’ve ever planned to finish some work on the plane (or scroll through TikTok, let’s be honest), only to find out that you can’t even open your browser, you know how inconsistent airplane Wi-Fi can be. On the other hand, when it works, receiving a message from someone who is flying over the Atlantic, still seems like a little miracle.

The fact is, airplane Wi-Fi is getting better and prices are coming down. If airplane Wi-Fi is something you plan to use, you should know the best options. Here is everything you’ve ever wanted to know about airplane Wi-Fi, including costs, reliability, and safety.

Which US airlines offer airplane Wi-Fi?

Every major US airline — with the exception of the ultra-low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines — offers Wi-Fi. That said, they don’t all offer Wi-Fi throughout their fleet, since some smaller aircraft that fly short regional routes may not be Wi-Fi-enabled. On planes that do have Wi-Fi, most airlines will allow you to access their own websites, cost-free, to make changes to a reservation, for example.

Which US airlines offer free airplane Wi-Fi?

“JetBlue is the only airline to offer free, unlimited, high-speed Wi-Fi at every seat, on every plane,” Julianna Bryan, Corporate Communications Manager at JetBlue, explains in an email exchange with Matador Network.

And this is true. While some airlines offer free messaging and others say they plan to offer free Wi-Fi in the near future, JetBlue has the most extensive, free offerings to date. And JetBlue customers like it that way.

“While it depends on the route, we find that many JetBlue customers take advantage of our free, high-speed Fly-Fi onboard,” adds Bryan.

How much does Wi-Fi cost on US airlines?JetBlue

Wi-Fi is free on JetBlue.

United Airlines

United Airlines Wi-Fi costs vary by flight. Newark to Costa Rica’s Juan Santamaría International Airport costs $6.99, and Newark to San Francisco costs $40.99, both for the entire flight. United MileagePlus members can buy a monthly subscription for $49 for North and Central America and $69 for global. (Yearly subscriptions are $539 and $689, respectively).

Delta Air Lines

Messaging is free on Delta Air Lines. Wi-Fi costs only $5 per flight on many of its aircraft. Delta Air Lines is moving to offer free Wi-Fi in the near future.

American Airlines

American Airlines Wi-Fi costs between $12 for two hours and $19 for the entire flight on planes serviced by Panasonic In-flight Wi-Fi. AAdvantage members can buy a monthly subscription for $49.95 or $59.95 for two devices.

Southwest Airlines

Wi-Fi on Southwest costs $8 per day. Messaging costs $2 per day. If you want to use your Wi-Fi to access Southwest’s streaming options, like on demand TV, that is free.

Alaska Airlines

Messaging is free on Alaska Airlines. If purchased in advance, Alaska’s Wi-Fi costs $16 per day, $49.95 per month, or $599 per year. Purchased on the plane, it is $7 per hour or $19 all day.

How and when can I purchase airplane Wi-Fi on US airlines?JetBlue

There is no need to purchase Wi-Fi on JetBlue since it is free. But to get connected, just choose FlyFi from the available Wi-Fi networks, then go to FlyFi.com and log in with your TrueBlue account or continue as a guest.

United Airlines

You can purchase United Airlines Wi-Fi before or during your flight, using a credit card. If you’re a MileagePlus member, you can also use miles. Turn on Wi-Fi and select the “United Wi-Fi” network. Then click on your browser and go to unitedwifi.com and make the purchase.

Delta Air Lines

You can purchase Delta Wi-Fi before or during a flight. Turn on Wi-Fi and select the “DeltaWiFi.com” network. It will take you to the Wi-Fi portal. If that doesn’t work, click on your browser and type deltawifi.com

American Airlines

You can purchase American Airlines Wi-Fi before or during your flight. Turn on Wi-Fi and select the “AA-Inflight” network. It will take you to the Wi-Fi portal. If that doesn’t work, click on your browser and type aainflight.com

Southwest Airlines

You can purchase Southwest Wi-Fi before or during your flight. Turn on Wi-Fi and select the “SouthwestWiFi” network. It will take you to the Wi-Fi portal. If that doesn’t work, click on your browser and type www.southwestwifi.com

Alaska Airlines

You can purchase Alaska Airlines’ Wi-Fi before or during your flight. Turn on Wi-Fi and select the “gogoinflight” or the “Alaska_WiFi” network. Then open your browser and go to www.AlaskaWiFi.com

What US airlines provide the best wifi?JetBlue

#1 Best

JetBlue offers the best airplane Wi-Fi service. It offers free, high-speed Wi-Fi at every seat on every flight. You can stream movies and TV shows

Delta Air Lines

#2 Very good

Delta Air Lines is now offering Wi-Fi service through Viasat, having stopped offering Wi-Fi service through Gogo. Users can browse the internet, check email, and stream movies.

Alaska Airlines

#3 Very good

More than three-quarters of Alaska’s airplanes are equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, which can also be used from gate to gate and to stream videos. Some airlines require you to be at 10,000 feet to use Wi-Fi.

Southwest Airlines

#4 Good

Southwest’s Wi-Fi is inexpensive — offering the best bang for your buck. Also, you can use your device to watch on-demand TV shows.

American Airlines

#5 Good

American Airlines uses multiple service providers for its Wi-Fi, and some offer better service than others. Upon booking your flight on American, you can see if the aircraft will have high-speed Wi-Fi.

United Airlines

#6 Good

United Airlines Wi-Fi has improved in recent years, but it is expensive on some routes. It uses four different Wi-Fi providers, depending on the plane, so some flights offer more seamless, glitch-free Wi-Fi than others. One of the providers is Gogo, which does not have a very extensive network. For now, don’t count on stream videos on United Airlines.

Can I use Wi-FI on airplane mode and how?

“Rules related to using cellular data in-flight are regulated by the FAA [Federal Aviation Administration]. This is not a JetBlue-specific policy,” says Bryan.

And the federal rule is that you have to switch your phone to airplane mode — turning off cellular voice and data — on all US domestic flights. So here is how to use Wi-Fi on airplane mode.

iPhones

Depending on the model of your iPhone, swipe up or down to access your quick setting and press the airplane icon to switch it to airplane mode. Then press the Wi-Fi icon to turn on Wi-Fi

Androids

You can reach airplane mode by swiping down from the top of the screen to access the quick settings and select airplane mode. Then press the Wi-Fi icon to turn on Wi-Fi

Can you text on a plane with Wi-Fi?

You can text on a plane using iMessage, WhatsApp, and other Wi-Fi-enabled messaging services like Facebook Messenger. You can’t text using the telephone network.

Can I share the airplane Wi-Fi with someone with my hotspot?

No. Hotspots work by connecting a device, like your phone, to a telephone network and then using bluetooth to connect another device, like your laptop, to that network. Since you cannot use telephone networks on an airplane, you cannot tether to a hotspot.

Can I place a phone call on an airplane with Wi-Fi?

“On JetBlue, phone calls are not permitted in-flight, even when connected to Fly-Fi,” says Bryan. In fact, they aren’t permitted on any US airline, even on a service like FaceTime audio, as the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) does not permit private calls on airplanes.

Can I use FaceTime on an airplane with Wi-Fi?

You cannot use FaceTime on an airplane, as the FCC does not permit private calls on airplanes.

Is airplane Wi-Fi safe/secure to use?

Bryan says JetBlue’s Wi-Fi is safe to use.

If you want to be extra careful, though, consider that airplane Wi-Fi networks are essentially like public networks, and not like a private, password-protected network you might have at home. While it’s not really likely, a fellow passenger could potentially access your data. So use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) or simply know the risks.

How does in-flight Wi-Fi work?

“JetBlue’s Fly-Fi is powered by our partner ViaSat’s Geostationary, high-speed Ka-band in-flight connectivity solution leveraging satellite-based technology,” says JetBlue’s Bryan.

Airlines provide Wi-Fi through service providers, some of which link to satellites. Aircraft with satellite-enabled Wi-Fi, like all of those flown by JetBlue, have antennas on the top of their airplanes that link up with the closest satellite to connect your device to the internet and other wireless services. While some Wi-Fi providers rent bandwidth on satellites, ViaSat owns its own satellites.

Other services providers are still linking to a ground-based network, although that is slowly changing. Aircraft that use land-based Wi-Fi solutions have antennas on their underside.

When does airplane Wi-Fi not work and why?

“Our Fly-Fi coverage area varies with the type of plane and the route. All JetBlue-operated flights have coverage over the contiguous US. And, our recently restyled Airbus A320 and A321neo aircraft offer expanded coverage over much of the Caribbean and Central America. Our Airbus A321 Long Range aircraft offers expanded coverage to/from London,” says Bryan. But she adds, “Due to weather and other variables, this coverage area does not necessarily guarantee service availability.”

In fact, rain and snow can interfere with satellite technology. Also, some geostationary satellites are not accessible above 70 degrees of latitude, so if your international flight crosses over Arctic latitudes, you may be out of Wi-Fi for a while.

If the service provider your airline is using is Gogo’s basic service, you’ll be relying on a land-based network that has coverage holes. (Gogo also has a more updated, satellite-based service). And, if you are on an aircraft using a Wi-Fi option with slower connection speeds, the Wi-Fi may seem not to work because you’re trying to access a site that the airline has blocked, as it takes too much bandwidth.

Why do airlines charge for Wi-Fi?

Airlines charge for the installation and maintenance of Wi-Fi hardware on their planes. Since Wi-Fi service is contracted via a third party, airplanes charge you some of the cost they pay to those service providers. The antennas used to provide Wi-Fi also add extra weight to the plane and may result in the need for additional, and costly, fuel.

More like thisAirports + FlyingCan You Make Wi-Fi Voice Calls on Airplanes?

Hallstatt Is a Picture-Perfect Austrian Getaway. Here’s How To See It Without the Crowds.

Even if you don’t know the town of Hallstatt, Austria, you’ve probably seen pictures of it. It’s the picture-perfect definition of a charming European village.

No, seriously. Do an image search for “charming European village” and the lakeside town that pops up, well, that’s Hallstatt.

Unfortunately, the word is out that Hallstatt is drop-dead gorgeous, and it has a serious overtourism problem — at least between the hours of 10 AM and 6 PM, when the combination of trains and a ferry allow daytrippers from nearby towns like Salzburg to arrive in droves. That brings an insane amount of tourists to the town of around 850 people, resulting in tourists walking through the yards of private homes and locals unable to get in and out of town without 45-minute delays.

This creates a challenge: how does a tourist get to see the gorgeous town without contributing to the problem? Simple: go in the off-hour. Here’s the perfect guide to 24 hours in Hallstatt — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — with a special focus on avoiding crowds and experiencing the town with a little more space to yourself.

Planning and logistics for Hallstatt

Photo: Suzie Dundas

When to go to Hallstatt

Summer is by far the busiest time for tourism in Hallstatt, so consider going in winter (it’s close to ski resorts) or in the shoulder season (November or March) if you really want to avoid crowds. I visited in March, and while days were sunny and in the 50s Fahrenheit, mornings were quite cold — it really felt like I was tucked away in the mountains.

However, more important than when you go is what time you go. I can’t stress enough what a better experience you’ll have if you do the opposite schedule from most people: arrive in the late afternoon, spend the night, and spend the next morning and afternoon there before leaving that afternoon. You’ll be able to see the major sights in town well before the first tourist ferry arrives for the day.

How to get to Hallstatt from Salzburg or Munich

It’s a very short walk from the train station to the ferry. Photo: Suzie Dundas

As long as you don’t mind a few fast and easy train rides, the journey is quite easy. From Munich Central Station, you’ll first take the train to Salzburg, then swap trains to get to the town of Attnang-Puchheim, where you’ll get another train to Hallstatt station. The Hallstatt train station is across the lake from the town, but the ferry station is about 50 yards from the train station, and its timing mirrors the train’s timing. So the ferry will almost always be sitting there when you get off the train. A round-trip ticket is about €5.

Where to stay in Hallstatt

My view from the Bräugasthof Inn. Photo: Suzie Dundas

Keep it easy: stay at the Bräugasthof Hallstatt. It has only seven rooms and is in an old brewery building from the 15th century. It’s on the water and is one of the closest hotels to the town center. My room had a small private balcony overlooking Lake Hallstatt and the complimentary breakfast is in an adorably charming dining room. It’s about $150 a night and runs a beautiful outdoor restaurant in the summer and fall.

Another convenient (but pricier) option is the larger Hotel Gruener Baum, with more luxurious but slightly more corporate-looking rooms. Both hotels are within a 10-minute walk of the ferry terminal and are easy to reach while towing luggage. The town also has plenty of apartments and guesthouses (gasthaus) for rent at rates more comparable to hostels.

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Your perfect plan for 24 hours in HallstattDay 1: Afternoon/evening

A nearly empty Hallstatt after the last ferry. Photo: Suzie Dundas

Plan to arrive in town by around 4 PM, and ideally, a bit earlier in the middle of winter when days are shortest. That’ll allow you to check into your hotel, drop off your luggage, and still have a few hours of daylight left. All overnight guests to Hallstatt get a tourist card, which comes with discounts on attractions and stores, so pick that up when you arrive from your lodging.

Immediately after you’ve arrived is a great time to take some photos or swing by a local cafe for a coffee or beer (or both) to celebrate the end of a (probably) long journey. You could also stretch your legs on a hike to the Wasserfälle Hallstatt (Hallstatt waterfall). Daytrippers will be on their way back to town, so you likely won’t encounter too many people heading in the same direction on the trail. It takes just over an hour each way, give or take, for fit hikers. Afternoons are also a great time for a boat rental, especially if you catch the golden hour light. Boat rental rates are shockingly affordable, starting at about €10 an hour.

Have dinner in town. While reservations can’t hurt, the crowds go way down after the daytrippers have left, even in the summer. Have dinner in a traditional restaurant like Gasthof Zauner or Seehotel Gruner Baum (outside the hotel). Hallstatt isn’t a late-night place, so while you can certainly hang out and have a few Austrian beers, don’t plan on a super late night.

Day 2: Morning

Hallstatt at around 6 AM. Photo: Suzie Dundas

The morning of day two is when you’ll really start realizing how well you’ve maximized your time. Wake up early (a little before sunset) and walk to the Hallstatt photo viewpoint, from which the town’s most famous photos are taken. It’s usually packed with tourists, but it’s relatively empty first thing in the morning, which also happens to be when sunlight is just starting to shine on all the buildings as the town faces east. It’s a 10-minute flat walk from downtown.

Afterward, come back and have breakfast at your hotel or grab a verlängerter (similar to an Americano) and a schaumrollen (cream pastry) at a cafe like Taglich Frisch Gebacken. After breakfast, hightail it to the town’s most popular tourist attraction: the salt mine atop salt mountain (called Salzburg, like the city). The trip starts with a quick ride up a funicular (though you can also hike up in about an hour). At the top, head straight to the starting point for the world’s oldest salt mine. The surprisingly exciting tour takes about 90 minutes, which includes several chances to ride a slide deep inside the mountain.

Photo: Suzie Dundas

After touring the mine, walk around the trails at the top, taking in the fabulous views of the Alps from the Skywalk. I also recommend having a coffee at the cafe on top (Rudolfsturm), which has equally great views and reasonably priced coffees and sandwiches. It’s best to be on the first tour of the morning, and if you’re visiting in the off-season, expect quite small crowds. The tour can normally accomodate up to 70 people, but mine had three.

Day 2: Afternoon

The view from Hallstatt’s small cemetery. Photo: Suzie Dundas

If you didn’t have lunch at the Rudolfsturm by the salt mine, head back to town and grab a casual lunch to enjoy outside. Burgerman: the Station has excellent burgers and sandwiches (plus veggie options) near the entrance to the salt mine funicular, and you can walk just a few steps to sit and enjoy your meal on the water. Simple 169 is an affordable local cafe, and Maislinger sells all types of Austrian chocolate, breads, coffees, beers, pastries, pretzels and more, in case you’d like to put together your own traditional picnic.

It’s around this time you’ll probably start to notice the tourists in town, so head to one of the lesser-known attractions — nearly all visitors head to the Salt Mine and Skywalk first. Walk just up the hill behind town to visit the Ossuary Chapel, a petite church filled with more than 1,000 painted human skulls. Or keep learning about Hallstatt’s history by visiting the Hallstatt Museum or taking a walking tour; you can pick up a map of the more than 20 historical signs around town at the Hallstatt Visitors Center. Afternoons are also a great time to browse the various shops in the town, especially the high-end craft ones that can feel a bit awkward if you’re the only customer when you walk in. You won’t ever be the only customer on an afternoon in Hallstatt. Oh, and there’s a free archaeological exhibit you can visit in the basement of the Janu Sport Shop.

Photo: Suzie Dundas

And one more suggestion: if it’s sunny, you’ll find no shortage of places to post up with a local Austrian beer.

Day 2: Evening

Some of the best shots of Hallstatt are from the town’s ferry or piers. Photo: Suzie Dundas

Time to take a final few photos from the ferry as you say goodbye to Hallstatt and head to your next destination. The Austrian train system is exceedingly efficient and from Hallstatt, it’s easy to get to Munich, Salzburg, Vienna, or cities even farther afield. The OBB train system has reliable Wi-Fi and a cafeteria car, so you can check your email and drink a coffee (or both).  You can choose from second, first, or business class (business class is the nicest) and you can pay extra to reserve your seat in first class if you’re worried about making sure your group can sit together.

Tips for visiting Hallstatt

Pretty neat, eh? Photo: Suzie Dundas

Unless you speak German, download the Google Translate app and download German (yes, you can download the entire language to your phone). This will allow you to translate everything from signs to menus to museum displays in real-time using your phone’s camera. Just hover over the text and it’ll translate it on your screen, though you can also take photos and upload them to the app, which may save a little more battery. As long as you downloaded German, you’ll be able to read anything you want, even if you don’t have service.

I’d advise buying your round-trip ferry ticket when you head to Hallstatt. It doesn’t save any money, but it saves a bit of time and ensures you can walk right onto the ferry for the return trip without having to dig our your wallet again.

Use an app like AllTrails or GoogleMaps to download a map of Hallstatt if you plan on taking any of the area hikes. The trails are easy to follow, but if you’re curious about how much farther you have to go, you may appreciate being able to look at your exact location.

Finally, I’d advise taking a photo of the ferry schedule and map posted at the entrance to town. You’ll be able to pick up maps at the tourist centers, but having the ferry schedule handy is quite helpful. You only need to arrive at the ferry terminal a few minutes before departure.

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