Matador Network's Blog, page 537
December 30, 2021
A lawyer on TikTok explains how to cash in if you’re ‘bumped’ from your flight
Catching a flight is often stressful enough, getting to the airport two to three hours before takeoff, checking luggage, and making your way through security. But once you arrive at the gate, it should be smooth sailing. All that’s left to do is board and take off — most of the time. However, in the age of COVID-19, missing your flight at no fault of your own is becoming more and more common. Another common practice in the industry is “bumping” passengers due to overselling seats—but there’s a way to be compensated if that’s the case. TikToker Erika Kullberg is an attorney and personal finance expert who “reads the fine print so you don’t have to” explaining what to do if you get bumped.
@erikakullbergWhat airlines don’t want you to know about getting “bumped” 🤯 ##lawyer ##travel ##money♬ original sound – Money Lawyer Erika
There are some stipulations to this according to the US Department of Transportation. First off, to be eligible for this compensation, it’s important that you have a confirmed reservation, checked in to your flight on time, and arrive at the departure gate on time. If a flight is overbooked, the airline will begin asking people to voluntarily give up their seats for compensation, whether that be in the form of cash, a discount, or a free seat. You’re welcome to negotiate with the airline then, on what the compensation will be. But if not enough people decide to give up their spots, you could be involuntarily bumped.
If that happens, the amount of compensation you receive is based on a scale. The airline is not required to offer you any compensation if you will arrive to your destination within an hour of your original arrival time. If the delay is between one to two hours, you are entitled to 200 percent of the one-way fare, up to $775. If the delay is over two hours, you’re entitled to 400 percent of the one-way fare. Your compensation should be in hand once an agreement has been reached and no later than 24 hours afterward.
Unfortunately, you’re not always entitled to compensation. If there’s an operational or safety issue that causes an aircraft change, a weight and balance issue for a flight with less than 60 seats, your scheduled flights holds fewer than 30 passengers, or if you’re taking a chartered flight that is not part of an airline’s regular schedule, you’re simply out of luck.
So, if you’ve done everything right to make sure you make your flight, but things are still going wrong, at least there’s a silver lining. 
December 29, 2021
Omicron canceled thousands of flights. These airports were hit hardest.
If you had plans to celebrate away from home for the New Year holiday or to even take a well-earned vacation, be prepared to change your plans: Flight delays and cancellations continue to rise as the Omicron variant of Covid-19 rapidly spreads throughout the globe. Combined with frosty weather conditions, airlines and airports are facing down yet another pandemic-related disaster.
On Monday, December 27, more than 2,800 flights were canceled worldwide, and around 1,000 of those flights were within, into or out of the US, according to FlightAware. 11,000 more flights were delayed. On Tuesday, that number rose to 3,130 cancellations, with almost 1,300 of those cancellations being within, into, or out of the US. Delays also rose to 15,226 worldwide, 8,000 of which were within, into, or out of the United States.
It doesn’t seem like these trends are letting up anytime soon. The numbers today as of noon PST are on par with the rest of the week, totaling out to over 2,600 cancellations with 901 coming in or out of the US, and almost 9,000 delays, with 3,115 within, to or from the US. US airlines like Delta Airlines and Alaska Airlines seem to be hit the hardest. Alaska has become proactive in canceling or delaying flights a day or two in advance in places like Seattle by about 20 percent to account for de-icing the planes before takeoff, according to Reuters.
If you’re crossing your fingers that you’ll have smooth travels, you might be in trouble at large airports like Denver, Seattle, and Los Angeles. Within the last few hours alone, Denver has canceled 12 flights and delayed almost 60, followed by Los Angeles, canceling 12 flights with 48 delays, and Seattle with 27 delays and 28 cancellations. Here’s a list of the top 10 airports experiencing flight cancellations and delays by the origin airport today thus far.
Seattle-Tacoma Intl (SEA) with 84 cancellations (16 percent) and 70 delays (13 percent)Newark Liberty Intl (EWR) with 54 cancellations (eight percent) and 79 delays (12 percent)Chicago O’Hare Intl (ORD) with 39 cancellations (three percent) and 114 delays (11 percent)Los Angeles Intl (LAX) with 39 cancellations (four percent) and 107 delays (12 percent)Denver Intl (DEN) with 33 cancellations (three percent) and 145 delays (15 percent)Boston Logan Intl (BOS) with 24 cancellations (four percent) and 48 delays (nine percent)Houston Bush Int’ctl (IAH) with 23 cancellations (three percent) and 62 delays (nine percent)Fort Lauderdale Intl (FLL) with 21 cancellations (four percent) and 57 delays (12 percent)Minneapolis/St Paul Intl (MSP) with 19 cancellations (three percent) and 104 delays (21 percent)Orlando Intl (MCO) with 19 cancellations (three percent) and 57 cancellations (10 percent)You can follow along FlightAware’s Misery Map for live updates of just how miserable your time in the airport might be.
6 wellness destinations to kickstart 2022 the right way
There’s never a bad time to think about your own personal wellness, but, for many people, the start of a new year is the best time. And one thing is for sure: It’s a lot easier to keep wellness resolutions when you combine something boring (fitness) with something fun (travel). From the luxurious spas of Baden-Baden, Germany, to beer-themed rejuvination in Denver, Colorado, these are the wellness destinations to keep on your 2022 travel list.
We hope you love the places 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.
1. Baden-Baden, Germany
Photo: FooTToo/Shutterstock
Returning to international travel in 2022 may come with some nagging anxieties and travel cobwebs for many people. Not to worry. Baden-Baden is the perfect destination to put both mind and body at ease.
Located on the doorstep of the Black Forest in the German state of Baden-Württemberg, Baden-Baden has a long history as a wellness retreat for wealthy travelers. The region’s restorative spas were popular in the 19th century, as was the natural tranquility of the forest. Today, you can still find the height of European luxury at the spas of Baden-Baden.
There’s the Friedrichsbad Spa, which was built in the Renaissance style in 1977 with a grand domed hall, artistic frescoes, and Romanesque baths. The spa has 17 stations, including pools of different temperatures, showers, a soap and brush massage, steam, whirlpool, and a relaxation room. For the ultimate luxury wellness experience in Baden-Baden, head to the Villa Stephanie spa inside the Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa. This five-floor complex has a sauna, indoor pool, plunge pool, treatment rooms, gym, and a patio with views of a private park. The spa’s specialty is preventative medicine, and the business utilizes nutrition coaches and doctors to create customized treatment, fitness, and nutrition regimens for guests. The Brenners hotel has hosted guests as notable as Barack Obama and the Dalai Lama, so you know you’re in good hands.
In addition to the city’s spas, there’s also the 19th-century Trinkhalle (drinking hall) lined with Corinthian columns and fountains that are said to contain curative waters. Such fountains can also be found elsewhere in the city. In the 19th century, people believed the waters relieved symptoms of cardiovascular diseases, metabolic conditions, and rheumatism, and that belief persists to today. For an even more natural remedy, just head to the Black Forest for some “forest bathing” — the practice of immersing yourself in nature to clear your mind. The forest is just a 10-minute walk from the center of town, and there are dozens of hiking trails waiting to be explored.
2. Algarve, Portugal
Photo: Kite_rin/Shutterstock
It’s no surprise that the Algarve coastline in southern Portugal is an ideal beach relaxation destination for anyone familiar with the region. Still, you might not have considered how many wellness offerings there actually are.
In the beach community of Vila Lara, for example, you’ll find the Vilalara Longevity Thalassa & Medical Spa, with over 27 acres of botanical gardens and beaches. The spa retreat offers a multitude of wellness options, including a high-impact spa and detox, weight loss, anti-aging, and fitness programs. There are also two terrace restaurants next to a clifftop pool with views of the Atlantic.
Spas are the only place to find peace. Surfers understand that there are few things on this planet more centering than paddling out to sea and riding a wave. A hugely popular surf destination, it’s no surprise that the Algarve is home to one of Europe’s best surf-themed wellness retreats. Soul & Surf is a cozy farmhouse in the coastal hills that offers access to surf, yoga, meditation sessions, communal meals, and relaxing musical performances in the garden.
3. Ojai, California
Photo: Terry Granger/Shutterstock
Ojai, California, is in the hills two hours northwest of Los Angeles. It doesn’t quite have more spas than people, but for a town of around 7,000, there are certainly more wellness options than you might think.
Spa Ojai at the Ojai Valley Inn, for example, is a five-diamond resort with a spa that offers customized massage therapy regimens, an extensive menu of skincare treatments, and the signature Kuyam treatment — a communal “resting together” experience with other guests, where you lay in cleansing desert clays infused with essential oils. There’s also an artist cottage where guests can practice creative wellness, and a spa cafe for indulging in healthy snacks.
The Day Spa of Ojai, Enhanced Day Spa & Boutique, and the spa at the Lavender Inn are a few more options in Ojai, all of which offer a variety of luxury and specialty spa treatments.
Apart from the abundant spas in Ojai, the town also has a 16-mile walking and biking trail to the ocean — a great (and free) way to commune with nature and leave your worries behind. Ojai was originally settled by the Chumash Native Americans, and many consider the town itself to be imbued with a special healing aura.
4. Monticello, New York
Photo: Y01 Health Resort/Facebook
Spending a weekend in New York’s Catskill Mountains is relaxing and rejuvenating, even if you don’t do anything specifically wellness related. You don’t need a dedicated spa retreat when you’re surrounded by some of New York’s most stunning natural scenery, after all.
Check out the Thompson Town Park, which has several hiking and cross-country skiing trails, as well as a sledding hill for kids. The town is also home to a number of small lakes, where you can fish and canoe in the summer and go ice skating in the winter. Kiamesha Lake has two nature trails — Schiff Trail and Peenpack Trail — which are popular for observing the local flora. Campsites are also available, though you’ll have to properly prepare for a winter camping experience if you’d like to go in the colder months.
Few things are more cathartic for skiers than hitting the slopes. The Holiday Mountain Ski and Fun Park is a popular resort right in Monticello, offering downhill ski runs of all difficulties.
What’s better after a long day of skiing — or hiking a trail in the brisk weather — than a spa day? Located in the mountains of Monticello, the Y01 Health Resort sits on more than 1,300 acres of beautiful lan, and offers customized, holistic treatment regimens aimed at addressing the root causes of specific health concerns through head massagse, pol poolings, Swedish massages, and acupuncture.
5. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Photo: lynn friedman/Shutterstock
Jackson Hole has long been a favorite celebrity haunt, and not just because of its relative remoteness or multi-million dollar lodges. Located at the base of the Grand Tetons on the edge of Yellowstone National Park, Jackson Hole is one of the most naturally beautiful landscapes in the US. It’s known for wildlife viewing, peaceful mountain scenery, and world-class skiing. As with any top-tier ski destination, there’s a truly special and luxurious spa experience waiting for you after you hit the slopes.
Just 20 minutes from the ski area, Amangani is a stone lodge that fits right in with the epic mountain aesthetic surrounding it. Amangani’s spa and wellness center uses all-natural materials and ingredients sourced from local woods and rivers in its rejuvenating treatments. The Apres Ski Dream treatment is designed to soothe tired joints and muscles with a traditional sage smudge ritual, peppermint food scrub, and hydrating warm-wax dip. The Winter Solstice treatment incorporates a Himalayan salt body scrub, hot stone massage, body wrap, and crystal sound bowl therapy. The spa also offers holistic massages with styles ranging from shiatsu to Thai, a heated outdoor pool with mountain views, and a relaxation lounge, fitness center, and yoga studio.
6. Denver, Colorado
Photo: The Beer Spa by Snug
Colorado often ranks among the world’s healthiest states, and it’s no surprise why with an abundance of fresh mountain air and opportunities for outdoor activities. This wellness mindset quickly rubs off on visitors, but if you’re looking for a quintessentially Colorado experience, you’ve got to combine wellness with Colorado’s other great love: beer.
The Beer Spa by Snug in Denver’s Five Points neighborhood is exactly what it sounds like. Denver’s first craft beer spa has a front room where beer flows from 10 pour-it-yourself taps — six of which are from a rotatinglocal brewery — and there’s also a tap for cider and local wine. The “snug” in the spa’s name refers to the Irish meaning of snug: a place where you can drink beer, relax, read a book, and talk with friends. The spa’s front room acts as the communal snug.
No, you won’t actually be bathing in beer, but the soaking tubs use an infusion mix of barley and hops (sans alcohol), and the rain showers are furnished with beer-infused soap. A 2019 study found that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of hops can help the skin, so these amenities actually do have health benefits. And no matter where you go in the spa, you’ll be able to bring a custom beer spa tumbler with a covered top, meaning you’ll never be without your beverage of choice. What’s more relaxing than that?
For the rest of a trip, there are plenty of places to stay to further enjoy Denver’s beer, mountain vibes, and, yes, cannabis.
December 28, 2021
It’s true — McDonald’s is putting stationary bikes in its restaurants
Riding a stationary bicycle while scarfing down lunch at the world’s largest fast-food chain might seem like quite the oxymoron. Yet, McDonald’s representatives have confirmed that this might become an everyday reality in its stores in China, as it tests out the concept at two of its stores, according to HypeBeast — one in Guangdong and the other in Shanghai.
A video of a girl riding one of the stationary bikes went viral as she pedaled while enjoying a cheeseburger and fountain drink. The video has over 35 million views and thousands of likes on the country’s version of TikTok. The company responded, saying the stationary bikes were a part of the company’s initiative to go green.
Recently, a #McDonald‘s in Shanghai provided customers with a sports #bicycle table, so that customers can eat while exercising~ Do you think customers will lose #calories or eat more because of this? pic.twitter.com/9O1Sa9Mm6C
— Zhengguan (@ZhengguanNews) December 17, 2021
“The bicycle seats for internal use are currently being tested in two locations in China in response to the government’s “low carbon emission [policy] said the representatives. “Through the love of customers, we hope to inspire more environmental protection behaviors.”
The bicycles are made entirely of recyclable materials, and they let consumers recharge their electronics while they eat using sustainable energy. McDonald’s is gathering customer feedback as they decide whether to expand the program into more of its restaurants.
These unique co-living spaces turn your remote work stay into a full-on surf camp
Good new for travelers hoping to find a new travel experience in 2022: two iconic beach brands have come together to create a one-of-a-kind surf camp experience.
The Selina x Volcom Surf Club will incorporate surf lessons and culture with an active lifestyle, live music, and cultural events, and you can take part at one of four locations. Selina is a millennial- and Gen-Z-loved company that runs remote working locations around the world. In addition to lodging, workspaces, and Wi-Fi, guests get access to community events like yoga, cultural tours, cooking classes, and other offerings to help facilitate a sense of community. And by partnering with surf, skate, and snowboard company Volcom, Selina guests now have access to epic surf experiences while working remotely.
Participants staying at select Selina co-living locations can sign up for surf lessons and guided surf excursions, attend festivals and private parties, and have the opportunity to connect with nomadic surfers from around the globe. Those ready to push their limits can even sign up for surf competitions — or just snag a hoodie with the Selina x Volcom surf camp logo.
Surfing and the digital nomad lifestyle have intersected for years. Many remote workers choose to base themselves in coastal locales like Indonesia’s Bali and Mexico’s coastal towns, and Selina is uniquely positioned to serve them. The hospitality company owns and operates hybrid co-living, co-working, and food and beverage properties across Latin America, the United States, Europe, and Australia. Its primary guests are digital nomads and remote workers looking for an established community of people with similar interests. And sponsoring surf events and camps is nothing new for Volcom, so it makes sense that the two would partner to combine expertly programmed surf retreats designed specifically for digital nomads. The Selina x Volcom Surf Club is now available at multiple Selina locations across Latin America and Europe including Sayulita, Mexico; Florianopolis, Brazil; Peniche, Portugal; Bocas del Toro, Panama; and Santa Teresa and Jaco, both Costa Rica.
“Our mission is to provide the lifestyle and community that our guests aspire to as much of the corporate world continues to embrace remote work options,” said Ariel Levinsohn, VP of Global Brands and Creative at Selina, in a press release. “We have been working with Volcom and our team of local experts to curate amazing amenities and experiences that allow our guests to move seamlessly from work to play and from sport to leisure.”
Selina x Volcom Surf Club builds on the traditional surf camp modelThe Selina and Volcom partnership is designed to differ from traditional surf camps in that the traditional model — where a guest checks in for a short-term stay and spends their entire time with fellow aspiring surfers — is only part of the equation. Selina x Volcom Surf Club is also designed for less-intensive, long-term stays catered to digital nomads who have decided to base themselves in one Selina location for a month or more.
Guest experiences will go something like this: they’ll visit a Selina location in Latin America — perhaps the Peniche Selina in Portugal, since it’s the debut location of the project. After checking in to the co-living space, they sign up for a group surf lesson the following morning. After the lesson, they’ll put in a day of work in the co-working space on their laptop, or relax elsewhere on property to use the Wi-Fi in a more casual setting. That evening, they retire to the beach or Selina’s onsite pub to take in the tunes of a reggae-rock band.
What makes the partnership unique is that guests need not commit to a rigorous schedule of surf-related programming, or any schedule at all. If Selina guests have a stream of work calls or simply don’t feel like pushing out into the waves the next day, it’s up to them. They can book a lesson or experience whenever it’s good for them with no need to plan ahead. Since the co-working spaces have onsite equipment and instructors, guests have endless flexibility in customizing their stays. They can opt for a traditional intensive surf camp experience or just take the occasional private morning lesson. The club also offers instruction in yoga, meditation, and breathing. Prices vary by location and experience.
“Surfing has always been a primary focus at Volcom since the beginning,” Ryan Immegart, CMO at Volcom, said in the release. “Selina has an exceptional ability to foster unique communities in their co-working destinations through experience and engagement.
The brands are also taking their partnership beyond the waves. Each Selina property sells custom surfwear and hoodies for the partnership at that specific location, so guests can take a piece of the experience with you when you move on to the next stop in your travels (or next co-working location).
More like thisSurfingWhen the world turned upside down, I moved to Mexico and learned to surf
December 27, 2021
The 8 best hotels in Tulum for photo-worthy jungle vibes
Tulum, on the southern part Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, has long been a popular hang-out for the hip, active, and Bohemian-inspired travel set. And because it draws such a hodgepodge of travelers — from budget-conscious yogis looking for shared accommodations to luxury travelers seeking a beachfront escape — there are hundreds of hotels to choose from. But what the best hotels in Tulum all have in common is one thing: a tie to the land and a decor inspired by the jungle.
Architecture and art are interchangeable in Tulum, and some of the town’s best hotels feel like living art galleries. Many of the best hotels in Tulum are defined by a lack of boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, lush plants, and woven and wooden interior design elements. Creativity runs free when it comes to architecture in Tulum.
However, it can be hard to narrow down the list of where to stay when so many hotels are so beautiful. So to make trip planning a bit easier, check out the list below of the best jungle-themed hotels in Tulum, from a stunning treehouse resort to a romantic beach hotel with old-school ocean-view bungalows.
We hope you love the Tulum jungle hotels we recommend below! 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.
Where to stay in TulumTulum isn’t a large town, but there are basically three areas to choose from.
Recently, Tulum town has become a popular place to stay, and many of the best hotels in Tulum town offer free or very affordable bike rentals so guests can easily get to the beach. Hotels in Tulum town aren’t on the beach, but they’re more affordable, near more authentic local restaurants, and often partner with beach clubs for guests to get day access to the sand and surf.
The best hotels in Tulum Beach are on the shore, along the one main road. Tulum Beach is the center of the action in Tulum and most hotels will be within walking distance of the hip restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and outdoor beach lounges that made the town so popular. The downside is that it’s more expensive, traffic is often stand-still, and the roads and sidewalks are poorly maintained, so even biking through town can be hard.
The third area where you’ll find some of the best hotels in Tulum is the far north area of Tulum Beach (near the Tulum ruins). There’s one road that connects Tulum town to Tulum Beach (the very bikeable Ave. Coba). Head right when it hits the beach to go to Tulum Beach; head left, and you’re in the northern strip of beach. This area is less developed and has more of a focus on yoga, outdoor space and wellness, while Tulum Beach is a bit more hip and chic. The downside is that most restaurants will be in hotels, and depending on where you stay, it may be a bit of a walk to restaurants.
A quick note: Tulum has been in the news recently for two things: irresponsible tourism, and cartel violence related to the drug trade. The first one is easy to avoid: support sustainable business, try to avoid plastics and non-reusable materials, and avoid super-busy bars, especially if people aren’t wearing masks. The second issue is ongoing, and the best way to protect yourself is to not buy any drugs while in the area. We’re not here to tell you how to live your life, but the higher the demand is for “party drugs,” the more likely drug-related violence will continue to happen. Always do what you can to be a safe and sustainable traveler.
The best hotels in Tulum for soaking in the jungle vibes:1. Aluna Tulum
Aluna Tulum/TripAdvisor
Aluna Tulum/TripAdvisor
Aluna Tulum/TripAdvisor
Aluna Tulum/Hotels.com
Location: Tulum TownInstagram: @KimptonAlunaTulumThis beautiful hotel is on the road that connects the town to the beach, making it easy to get into town or to the hotel’s partner day club. All public spaces in the hotel are outdoors, including the covered breakfast room, and local art from across Mexico adorns the walls. Rooms are clean and modern and look out on a pool surrounded by palm trees. It has exceptionally fast and reliable Wi-Fi, which is hard to find in Tulum Beach. There’s also a rooftop restaurant next to a second pool, a complimentary happy hour every day, and complimentary bikes — it’s about 15 minutes to the beach.
2. Hotel Bardo
Hotel Bardo/Booking.com
Hotel Bardo/Booking.com
Hotel Bardo/Booking.com
Hotel Bardo/Booking.com
Location: Tulum TownInstagram: @BardoTulumHotel Bardo is in the center of town, and while that means you’re further from the beach, it also means you get a great price on a hotel that would be double the cost were it beachfront. In places, the hotel feels like a nature extension of the earth, with a bar supported by tree trunks and rooms with outdoor showers and walls that slide away to bring the outdoors in. It’s decorated in deep greens and earth tones, and hammocks hang between secluded and shaded pairs of palm trees throughout the property. It’s one of the best hotels in Tulum town for adults only as guests need to be over 18.
3. Jungle Keva Tulum
Photo: Jungle Keva Tulum/Booking.com
Photo: Jungle Keva Tulum/Booking.com
Photo: Jungle Keva Tulum/Booking.com
Jungle Keva Tulum VillaTripAdvisor
Location: Tulum TownInstagram: @JungleKevaTulumJungle Keva describes itself as a “sublime jungle refuge,” and that’s a fairly accurate way of putting it. The hotel offers just five lodges, all with tall ceilings, natural materials, outdoor bathrooms, and outdoor living areas. The hotel is a low-impact hotel, so guests are encouraged to use re-usable bottles, offers organic bath products, and built the pool and common spaces around trees to avoid any vegetation removal. Guests can book just a room or sign up for on-site nature experiences, like outdoor cooking classes or lectures on the basics of Ayurveda.
4. Encantada Tulum
Encantada Tulum/TripAdvisor
Encantada Tulum/TripAdvisor
Encantada Tulum/Facebook
Encantada Tulum/TripAdvisor
Location: Tulum BeachInstagram: @EncantadaTulumMany hotels in Tulum beach are hip, colorful, and have on-site beach clubs, but that’s not the case with Encantada — making it an ideal jungle-themed hotel for travelers looking for a more upscale, less-fist-pumping experience. The boutique hotel has only eight rooms, all of which have outdoor patios or balconies and most have ocean views. The small property is covered with palm trees, and breakfast is served on one of a few thatched-roof decks. However, Encantada’s main selling point may be something it doesn’t have: children. It’s one of the best hotels in Tulum Beach if you’re after an adults-only getaway.
5. Hotel Nueva Vida
One of the more affordable jungle-themed hotels in Tulum is Nueva Vida, in a central location along the beach road. The hotel has 32 rooms spread across a dozen bungalows, so guests can choose from affordable garden-view rooms or second-level oceanfront rooms with air conditioning. Staying at the solar-powered hotel is a great way to not just feel like you’re in the jungle, but protect the jungle: Nueva Vida runs a sea turtle conservation program, replants native plants around the large property, and has water fill-up stations around the property to minimize plastic use.
6. Nômade Tulum
Photo: Nomade Tulum/Booking.com
Photo: Nomade Tulum/Booking.com
Photo: Nomade Tulum/TripAdvisor
Photo: Nomade Tulum/Booking.com
Location: Tulum BeachInstagram: @NomadeTulumIf being connected to the jungle means being as close as possible to nature, consider springing for a stay at Nômade Tulum. The jungle-view rooms have natural decor and materials, but its the safari tents and treehouses that truly make this one of the best hotels in Tulum. The safari-style tents have deep wood accents, outdoor bathrooms, and outdoor decks or patios. And while its small, the treehouse room is one of the most unique places to stay. It’s accessed by a raised walkway and looks out over the jungle. But regardless of what room you choose, you’ll have access to hotel amenities like a Moroccan-inspired open-air restaurant, a pool and beach beds, and access to programming like biodynamic breath classes, cacao ceremonies, or even stargazing classes.
7. Habitas Tulum
Photo: Ourhabitas.com
Photo: Habitas Tulum/Facebook
Photo: Habitas TulumTripAdvisor
Photo: Habitas Tulum/Booking.com
Location: Tulum BeachInstagram:@Habitas_tulumThe jungle rooms at Habitas Tulum may be the least expensive on the property, but they’re ideal for travelers who want an elegant, jungle-themed stay that doesn’t compromise on sustainability. The hotel aims to be zero-impact, down to what materials they use for the rooms. And speak of rooms — they’re permanent safari tents, complete with raised decks, thatched roofs, and front flaps that open to the jungle or ocean beyond. Habitas’ decks, rooms, restaurant and pool are connected by lush jungle paths that truly feel secluded from the lively scene just outside its front gate.
8. Ikal Tulum
Photo: Ikalhoteltulum.com
Photo: Ikalhoteltulum.com
Photo: Ikalhoteltulum.com
Photo: Ikalhoteltulum.com
Location: North Tulum BeachInstagram: @ikal_tulum_hotelIkal is the place to stay if your dream Tulum getaway includes daily yoga, drum circles, and never, ever having to wear shoes. Guests can pick from small garden-view bungalows, canvas safari tents, or the crème de la crème of jungle-themed rooms: the jungle cabanas. The three different room types are inspired by bio-architecture (the blending of art, architecture and the natural environment) and have features like skylights, private jungle meditation circles, plunge pools, and outdoor bathrooms. Connection to the jungle is big here, so expect open windows, organic materials, and minimal divisions between indoors and out.
December 23, 2021
Matador 2022 Travel Awards: Cause to Rally Behind
As travelers, we directly impact the world’s most beautiful places, and we can be a major force in protecting them. Which is why rewilding is our Cause to Rally Behind for 2022.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has perhaps the best description that gets to the heart of what rewilding means: “Rewilding aims to restore healthy ecosystems by creating wild, biodiverse spaces. It rebuilds ecosystems previously modified by human disturbance, using the plant and animal life that would have been present had the disturbance never occurred. In doing so, rewilding restores the natural processes that provide humanity with clean air, water, food, shelter, and medicine.”
Across the globe, governments and NGOs are partnering with tourism businesses to rewild spaces in both cities and remote areas, revitalize wildlife, and bring back tourism in a way that benefits local communities. African Parks, Tompkins Conservation, and The European Nature Trust are three organizations leading the way while making space for travelers to be a part of the solution.
One of the biggest success stories from the past decade is Rwanda, our sustainable tourism winner. Akagera National Park is a 100,000-hectare park situated in eastern Rwanda. It was decimated during Rwanda’s genocide, and has been managed by African Parks in partnership with the Rwanda Development Board since 2010. The park has been brought back to its former state through donations and government funding, and it’s now home to Africa’s Big Five. Sustainability minded options to stay in the park include Akagera Game Lodge, the rustic Ruzizi Tented Camp, and the upscale Magashi Camp, which Wilderness Safaris operates.
Photo: Alexandre G. ROSA/Cape Horn/Shutterstock
Tompkins Conservation has been working on large-scale conservation projects that focus on restoring the full scope of native species to the Southern Cone of South America for more than two decades. The organization creates parklands, protects and restores wildlife, promotes regenerative agriculture, and shows that national parks can benefit local communities. For the serious hiker, they helped conceive and promote the Route of Parks of Chilean Patagonia, a scenic route stretching 1,700 miles between Puerto Montt and Cape Horn that encompasses 17 national parks and more than 60 gateway communities.
Photo: Romania/The European Nature Trust
The European Nature Trust (TENT) creates travel experiences that connect people to nature and raise funds for conservation projects. With less than 3 percent of global charitable giving focused on environmental causes, there is much room for growth. TENT’s week-long conservation trips take guests to Italy, Romania, Spain, and the Scottish Highlands. Each is expertly guided and include time with ecologists and wildlife experts to learn about the local flora and fauna. Accommodations range from rustic lodges to boutique hotels to wildlife hides to family-owned estates. All trips adhere to the eco-localism model of sustainable tourism and include a donation to local foundations and charities.
Matador 2022 Travel Awards: Best Airline
After launching in 1997, Qatar Airways quickly became an airline to watch. It’s one of the few airlines worldwide to earn a 5-star rating by Skytrax, and the Doha-based carrier has won six titles, including Airline of the Year 2021, Best Airline in the Middle East, World’s Best Business Class, World’s Best Business Class Seat, World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge, Best Business Class Onboard Catering, and secured a COVID-19 Airline Excellence award.
Qatar airlines flies to more 140 destinations worldwide. With destinations like Botswana, Macau, Nepal and Kazakhstan, travelers have increased access to some of the globe’s most exciting destinations — and a world-class way to get there.
Photo: NextNewMedia/Shutterstock
Though what really makes Qatar stand out is the pinnacle of business class experiences: the Qsuite.
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“The level of attention to detail on Qatar Airways is far above most airlines,” says Kristin Braswell, a Matador Network panelist and founder of CrushGlobal. “In the Qsuite, the meals offered are as stellar as any fine dining experience, as is the wine list that accompanies it.”
This mini onboard cabin has closing doors (complete with “do not disturb” indicator light) for privacy during the flight. The thing that makes Qsuites truly revolutionary is that four suites combine into numerous configurations, meaning the suites closer together can be combined into double beds so travel companions can share a space. Groups of four traveling together can lower the privacy partitions between their suites to form a four-suite space where families and friends can socialize without disturbing the rest of the cabin. Qatar Airways patented this mix-and-match system, and you won’t see it on other airlines. Qsuites for solo travelers are positioned closer to the window or to the aisle, offering a truly luxurious private experience.
Travelers who don’t book a Qsuite still benefit from the widest seats of any economy cabin, complimentary snacks, meals, and beverages (including alcohol), a personal screen with Oryx One entertainment system, a laptop, USB power charging points, and free Wi-Fi for at least 30 minutes. It’s easy to see why our panelists named it the best airline.
“Qatar Airways has a top-notch in-cabin experience, good food and wine, and is an easy transit hub in Doha that connects to Asia, the Middle East, and the US,” says Tim Wenger, outdoor editor at Matador Network.
Photo: VanderWolf Images/Shutterstock
Runner up: Delta Airlines“They consistently have better planes flying the domestic routes I take,” says panelist Jeff Jenkins of Chubby Diaries. “The SkyMiles program is top-notch, and they have some of the best perks for making status.”
Matador 2022 Travel Awards: Best Adventure Destination for Families
Since Anna and Elsa built a snowman in Disney’s Frozen, Norway has been a top vacation destination for the adventurous family. Glacier hiking, animal adventures, action-packed boat rides in the fjords, and a general family-friendly culture make Norway the clear choice for our winner of Best Adventure Destination for Families.
Photo: Hurtigruten/Rune Kongsro
“As a father, Norway is definitely an ideal destination for family adventurers,” says Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten Group, the world’s largest cruise operator. “From our capital city of Oslo to the remote beauty of Svalbard, Norway offers a bounty of memorable year-round experiences for parents, children, and grandparents. Our iconic natural offerings like the northern lights, whale watching, jaw-dropping fjords, and mountains, make us one of the best destinations on the European continent to explore. As a company born in Norway almost 130 years ago, we embody our country’s ethos and spirit of adventure.”
Any family trip to Norway should include three things: fjords, hiking, and trains. If you’re lucky, you can also include trolls. The simplest way to all three is the Norway in a Nutshell tour, one of the most popular tourist routes in Norway. This tour from Oslo to Bergen combines travel by train and ferry, offering panoramic scenery of snow-capped peaks, waterfalls, small towns, and fjords.
Fjords in Norway
Photo: Hurtigruten/Ørjan Bertelsen
Norway’s fjords are one of the country’s main attractions. These long and narrow sea inlets snake between mountains where villages and small towns are nestled along the shore. The best way to see fjords is by cruise, which is an ideal way to travel with family.
“People will turn to cruises as a great way to explore adventure in a setting that has something for everyone in the family of all ages, such as water parks, kid-friendly comedy shows, teen clubs, and even child care for little ones when adults need their own time,” says Rue Mapp, Matador Network panel member and found and CEO of Outdoor Afro.
Trains in Norway
Photo: Hourvari/Shutterstock
What could be more friendly than a playground on a train? Many Norwegian trains have them — a great perk for kids who don’t want to stare at glaciers through the window like their parents. The train options in Norway are seemingly endless, with the 453-mile long route between Trondheim and Bodø being the longest. Passengers travel on a journey through gorgeous landscapes from distinct northern coastal scenery to tiny inland towns and high mountain passes. The Dovre Line takes travelers from Oslo to Trondheim through some of Norway’s stunning national parks.
Hiking in Norway
Photo: Hurtigruten/Rune Kongsro
Norway is home to 47 national parks, which are free and open to the public year-round. The Norwegian Trekking Association runs more than 500 affordable hiking outposts across Norway, which gives ample choice of affordable accommodations. Hike from cabin to cabin along the coast, the mountains, and in the forests.
Norway also has via ferratas: protected climbing routes equipped with ladders, cables, and iron bolts that are anchored in the mountainside. There are several via ferratas in Norway, both for families and more experienced climbers.
Members on Matador Network‘s panel add that Norway offers adventures for everyone, from those who want demanding mountain hikes to those who prefer gentle trails that meander through the forest. And similar to a few other countries in Europe, Norway embraces the concept of the right to roam, which means that, unless there is a no trespassing sign, you’re able to hike on private land under the assumption that the visitor will respect the land. This love of nature and the outdoors can best be articulated by friluftsliv (pronounced “free-loofts-liv”), which can be translated to open-air living, a testament to Norway’s deep connection to a life lived outdoors and in connection with nature.
Runner Up: US National Parks“With a surge in people connecting to nature since the pandemic, our national parks remain there and ready to embrace us all with open arms,” Mapp says.
The Great American Road Trip is going nowhere. “I think the RV sensation will continue to thrive in 2022 – national parks, lakes, camping, etc will be in high demand.” says Zachary Burr Abel, panel member and blogger behind Monkey Miles. With more than 400 national park sites, there’s a “local” national park in reach for many. From the iconic Colorado Rockies to the Florida Everglades, you’ll find inspiring nature with many recreational activities to pursue.
December 22, 2021
Matador 2022 Travel Awards: Innovative Travel Gear
It hasn’t exactly been an even playing field this year when it comes to travel innovations. Sure, new drones have taken the travel videography world by storm, and apps like Wanderlog are making it easier than ever to plan your trip. But amid a traumatic pandemic, unprecedented travel restrictions, tanking tourism economies and closed borders that separated loved ones, one innovation stands high above the rest in the world of travel: the COVID-19 vaccine.
Industry experts and Matador staff voted for the most important and consequential travel innovation this year, and the winner was clear. The COVID-19 vaccine — encompassing all three FDA-approved shots — did more than just inoculate our immune systems against a deadly virus. It acted as a key, unlocking the borders of shuttered nations. It illuminated your favorite airline’s “book now” button, and quite literally reopened the door to your neighborhood restaurants. Two years ago, it would have been unfathomable that a single invention could change so much, so quickly.
The vaccine’s greatest benefit, however, goes far beyond mere access. Peace of mind is more tangible, and personal, than antibodies. With an extraordinary efficacy that exceeded anyone’s expectations, the vaccine did what we might have thought impossible during the darkest throes of the pandemic: make us feel safe again. It eased our nerves, calmed our minds, reassured us that we could safely board a plane to move through a crowd on Rome’s Spanish Steps. It not only boosted our immune system, but our confidence in adventure and exploration.
While we should certainly celebrate the success of the COVID-19 vaccine, it’s important to acknowledge that much of the world has yet to benefit from it. Whether due to poverty, politics, or logistics, many countries have only vaccinated a small fraction of their population. For them, life remains restricted and the future is still uncertain. That’s why, as with any major technological advancement, accessibility is as important as invention. The COVID-19 vaccine has been a boon for wealthy Western nations, but we can’t claim victory over the virus until the whole world has access to it.
We still have a long way to go in this pandemic, but the vaccine represents a momentous step toward opening borders, achieving peace of mind, and getting “back to normal.” And that’s worth more than even the coolest new travel app.
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