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Looking for an energy boost? 5 delicious coffee alternatives from around the world

In North America, coffee is the morning stimulant of choice. Still, there are drawbacks to coffee, including the sometimes bitter taste and buzzy, jittery high it gives some people. Of course, coffee beans aren’t the only energy boosting plant that nature has to offer and there are plenty of healthy coffee alternatives out there. People around the world have long looked to plants and fungi for beverages that impart a calmer, less intense burst of energy, mental clarity, and focus.

From ancient herbal teas to coffee substitutes popularized by wartime supply shortages, here are five (mostly caffeinated) alternatives to coffee that are drunk around the world.

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1. Matcha

Photo: waranya_photo/Shutterstock

People in China have ben cultivated green tea since around the 8th century. In fact, it’s believed that China was the first of the major tea growing regions in the world. Then, during the 12th century Song Dynasty, the method of preparing powdered tea from steamed and dried tea leaves exploded in China. It was around this time that a Japanese Buddhist monk named Eisai, who was studying in China, discovered that he could achieve a state of calm alertness by drinking green tea before mediating. In 1191, Eisai brought green tea back to his home country, where powdered green tea became an integral part of Zen Buddhist practice due to its ability to emprove mental focus.

Though there are many types of green tea in Japan, matcha is special because it’s used in the highly ritualized tea ceremony Chanoyu. But even novice tea-drinkers can prepare matcha using a bamboo chasen to whisk the powdered tea into a cup or bowl until it’s frothy.

Matcha is caffeinated and high in L-theanine, an amino acid, which some studies have found reduces stress and improves focus, making it a popular replacement for coffee. Researchers in a 2017 study found evidence that matcha might even improve attention, reaction time, and memory.

What to try: Ippodo Sayaka-no-mukashi Matcha, $46

2. Masala chai

Photo: Koucyk/Shutterstock

This Indian variety of spiced black tea (chai translates to tea) is likely thousands of years old, but its exact origins remain mysterious. According to most legends, it first appeared in the royal courts of either India or Siam as a healing Ayurvedic beverage. At that point it didn’t contain any black tea, thus was caffeine free.

Masala chai is a much more modern invention. The British East India Company began growing black tea in Assam, India, in the 1830s. However, it wasn’t until the early 1900s that chai became the spiced, sweetened, milky beverage still popular today. Around this time, British colonizers set up cheap or free tea stalls around the country. Sometime between World War I and the 1930s, Leena Trivedi-Grenier writes in her history of chai for Epicurious, Chaiwallas (streetside tea vendors) started adding masala (a blend of spices).

With it’s black tea base, masala chai is considered a potent alternative to coffee. It’s often spiced with cardamom, fennel seeds, black pepper, and ginger, and mixed with milk.

What to try: Rishi Tea Masala Chai Concentrate, $19

3. Kombucha

Photo: MD_Photography/Shutterstock

Nowadays, you’re likely to find glass bottles of kombucha in flavors like guava and spirulina lining the refrigerator aisles of local grocery stores across the country. This now trendy drink is more than 2,000 years old, and likely originated in China. According to Folklife, a magazine published by the Smithsonian, some research shows that Chinese people were drinking this bubbly, fermented tonic in 221 BCE, and that it made its way to Japan via Korea in 441 BCE.

Regardless of where it comes from, kombucha has built a reputation as a healing elixir over the centuries. Enthusiasts have touted that its probiotics promote digestive health, and that it’s antioxidant powers protect against disease. The drink may also provide an energy boost: It contains small amounts of caffeine and vitamin B, making it an alternative to coffee and energy drinks.

What to try: Humm Probiotic Kombucha Blood Orange, Pack of 4, $14

4. Yerba Mate

Photo: Pawel Michalowski/Shutterstock

Originally consumed by the Guaraní people — who lived in what is now Paraguay and parts of Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Bolivia — yerba mate is a precolonial beverage considered a “gift from the gods” by many South American indigenious peoples. The Guaraní sometimes chewed the leaves, but often placed them in a hollowed out gourd with water and then sipped the beverage through a straw made from bamboo. Today, the proper straw used to drink yerba mate is called a bombilla, and it’s designed to filter the yerba mate leaves as you drink. Mate also refers to the traditional gourd from which the tea is drunk.

Yerba mate leaves can be naturally bitter and earthy, and have naturally high levels of caffeine. The are similar to coffee: increased energy and focus, as well as antioxidants similar to those found in green tea.

What to try: Yerba Mate Rosamonte 2-pack, $21

5. Chicory coffee

Photo: Lazhko Svetlana/Shutterstock

Made from the ground and roasted root of the chicory plant, chicory coffee resembles coffee in flavor and appearance, but contains zero caffeine.

There are several different stories explaining how chicory made its way into a coffee-like beverage: A history of the drink published in 1864 by Peter Lund Simmonds specifies that chicory coffee might have originated in Holland, but that it didn’t become popular until 1801, when it was introduced to France. In the early 1800s, Napoleon blocked British coffee shipments to France, inspiring his coffee-bean-deprived citizens to brew coffee using chicory instead.

It’s that French influence that inspired chicory coffee to take root in Louisiana, where it’s still a widespread and popular beverage today. It took root in Louisiana thanks to another wartime shortage, this time during the American Civil War, according to a history of the drink in Smithsonian Magazine. Today, the iconic Cafe Du Monde still serves chicory coffee with its beignets.

What to try: Cafe Du Monde Coffee with Chicory, 15-Ounce, $16.50

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10 controversial statues and monuments that were removed or replaced in 2021

Since the Black Lives Matter movement of 2020, racism in art has been brought back to the forefront. Around the world, statues and monuments depicting colonial figures or glorifying racist ideas have been defaced, toppled, and even destroyed in the hopes that people and countries finally come to terms with their troubled pasts. Here are 10 such racist statues and monuments that were taken down, replaced, and moved in 2021.

1. Robert E. Lee statue — Richmond, VA, United States

Photo: Buddy Phillips/Shutterstock

In the midst of nationwide protests after the killing of George Floyd, Governor Ralph Northam of Virginia announced in June 2020 that a statue of Robert E. Lee, the Confederate army commander during the American Civil War, would come down. The equestrian memorial was the largest of five Confederate statues that loomed on Monument Avenue, the grand boulevard that defines Richmond, VA, once the Confederacy capital.

On September 2, 2021, the Virginia Supreme Court ruled that the racist statue in Richmond, VA, would be removed. The 21-foot-tall bronze sculpture was lifted from its pedestal on September 8, 2021, 131 years after it was first erected. A time capsule created by Paul DiPasquale, a Richmond-based sculptor, was placed near the pedestal. It holds 39 artifacts representing the theme of racial justice and the nation’s and Virginia’s reckoning with racism. The enormous pedestal with graffitied messages will also be removed by the end of December 2021.

2. Sir John A. Macdonald statue — Canada

Sir John A. Macdonald, the first Prime Minister of Canada (1860-1890) is credited with building modern Canada, but he is also infamous for putting into motion cruel cultural assimilation practices against First Nation people. His creation of the residential schools system led to the forced removal of thousands of Indigenous children from their families. The New York Times reported on August 17, 2021 that since May 2021, the remains of more than 1000 people, mostly children, were discovered in unmarked graves on sites of former residential schools in British Columbia and Saskatchewan.

In April 2021, a statue of John A. Macdonald was removed from Victoria Park in Regina, Saskatchewan. The city of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, voted unanimously on May 31, 2021 to remove his statue from the city’s downtown. It was brought down quietly at 6:30 AM on June 1, 2021. In Kingston, Ontario, where Macdonald practiced law and served as an alderman before representing the city in the Canadian Parliament, the City Council voted 12-1 in June 2021 to remove his statue from City Park where it had been on display since 1895. With a group of around 100 Indigenous people and their supporters cheering, the First Prime Minister’s two ton likeness was moved by a construction crew on June 18, 2021, to Cataraqui Cemetery where he is buried.

3. Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II statues — Winnipeg, MB, Canada

Photo: ExpediTom/Shutterstock

In May and June 2021, outrage grew over the discoveries of remains and unmarked graves of close to 1000 Indigenous children at the sites of former residential schools across Canada. Queen Victoria was the reigning monarch at the time the Canadian government enacted its residential schools policy. The seated figure of the British queen who reigned over the British Empire for 63 years had been in front of the Manitoba Legislative building in Winnipeg since 1904.

On the occasion of Canada Day, July 1, 2021, the statue of Queen Victoria was toppled. The Winnipeg Free Press reported that people surrounded the statue, wrapped it in ropes, pulled it off its base, and covered it in red hand prints. The statue’s head was removed though it was recovered the next day from the Assiniboine River. A plaque reading, “We were children once. Bring them home” was left behind on the base. The toppled statue was covered with a Canadian flag on which “We were children.” was written in black marker. Not far from the Victoria statue, a statue of Queen Elizabeth II, the current head of state, was also pulled down from its base and covered in handprints and red paint.

4. James Cook statue — Victoria, BC, Canada

Photo: warasit phothisuk/Shutterstock and Brendan Wray/Shutterstock

Captain James Cook was a British seafarer, explorer, and mapmaker. In 1778, he sailed along the west coast of Canada trying to chart a northern route from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean. He anchored in Nootka Sound, British Columbia, visiting and mapping areas, and renaming them, wiping out their Indigenous names.

The bronze likeness of the explorer has stood across the Empress Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia since being commissioned in 1976. Vancouver City News reported that on July 1, 2021, the statue was hauled forcibly off its pedestal. It broke into pieces and was thrown into the ocean by a gathered crowd. Left behind in its place were several wooden red dresses, a symbol for murdered and missing Indigenous girls and women, while the pedestal where a statue leg still remained was covered with red handprints and splashes of red paint. The statue was later recovered with its head missing.

5. John Cass and William Beckford statues — London, England

Following the 2020 Black Lives Matter movement, in January 2021, the City of London, decided to remove statues of Sir John Cass and William Beckford from the Guildhall, headquarters of the City government of London, in Moorgate. A 17th-century merchant and a politician, Sir John Cass heavily invested in the Royal African Company and amassed wealth through the transatlantic slave trade. William Beckford, twice the Lord Mayor of London in the late 1700s, owned 3000 slaves and 13 plantations in Jamaica.

In January 2021, the City of London Corporation voted to remove the racist statues from London and replace them with new artwork memorializing the slave trade. However, in October 2021, the city changed its plan and voted to keep the statues in place and explain them with a plaque. According to Reuters, Douglas Barrow who chaired the group said it was important to “acknowledge both Cass and Beckford and the City’s evident role and involvement in the atrocities of the transatlantic slave trade.” A part of the UK’s new “retain and explain” policy, it keeps in place controversial historical statues and provides added context with explanatory plaques.

6. Confederate soldier statue – Franklin, TN, United States

Photo: Courtesy of Visit Franklin

The Confederate Monument in Franklin, TN, had stood tall on the public square since 1899. It showed a soldier nicknamed “Chip” atop a 37-foot high column. The statue celebrated the Confederate soldiers who died in the Battle of Franklin during the American Civil War.

There was considerable social tension around this representation of the Confederacy. It failed to mention the 12,000 enslaved people who lived in the area, the city’s slave market, or even the attrocious public lynchings that took place there. The Fuller Story Project, an initiative by a group of local pastors and a historian, aimed to correct this failure. The effort culminated with the unveiling of a new statue of a United States Colored Troops soldier in October 2021. The statue, “March to Freedom”, is the work of Joe Frank Howard. It honors enslaved men who enlisted in the segregated part of the Union Army. The statue is seven-foot tall and faces the Confederate monument.

7. Statue of Thomas Jefferson — New York City, NY, United States

Thomas Jefferson, the third American President and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence has a controversial legacy. He enslaved more than six hundred people at his plantation in Virginia, Monticello, and fathered six children with Sally Hemings, a woman he enslaved.

A seven-foot-tall statue of Jefferson has stood in the New York City Hall chamber since 1833. For about two decades, Black, Latinx, and Asian council members had pushed for the statue’s removal with no success. In October 2021, city officials voted unanimously to remove the statue from the chamber. In November 2021, the New York City Public Design Commission unanimously approved the plan to relocate the statue to the New York Historical Society. It was to be placed in public areas with no ticket requirement. It will be displayed in the lobby for six months beginning in April 2022 and then placed in the museum’s reading room on a 10-year loan agreement, as reported by The New York Times.

8. Statue of Christopher Columbus — Mexico City, Mexico

Photo: Kamira/Shutterstock

Christopher Columbus, whose four transatlantic voyages to the Americas in the 15th century led to genocide, colonization, and exploitation, has long been a controversial figure.

As mentioned in The New York Times, in October 2021, Claudia Sheinbaum, the Mayor of Mexico City announced that the Christopher Columbus monument on Paseo de la Reforma, a prominent boulevard in the city, would be replaced by a statue of an Indigenous woman, called Young Woman of Amajac. The original Columbus statue was removed for restoration in 2020 as indigenous rights activists had wanted to tear it down. The empty plinth which still stands will hold the new statue which will be much taller than the original monument.

9. Cecil Rhodes statue — Oxford, England

Photo: Stanley Dullea/Shutterstock

Cecil Rhodes, a 19th-century British imperialist, politician, and businessman in South Africa expanded the British Empire in Africa by annexing lands that are today the countries of Zimbabwe and Zambia. The founder of the De Beers Diamond company and the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship is also a highly controversial figure, often considered to be the face of colonialism. Oxford University’s Oriel College in England, Rhodes’ alma mater, has long struggled with a decision about its Rhodes statue. The statue is placed at the very top of the facade of the college building that was built with money from his will.

In the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement, there were demands to remove the racist statue in Oxford. At first the governing body of Oriel College agreed to the proposal. But in May 2021, the college reneged on its promise, refusing to take down the statue. The college instead opted to place a plaque which read in part, “Rhodes, a committed British colonialist, obtained his fortune through exploitation of minerals, land, and peoples of Southern Africa. Some of his activities led to great loss of life and attracted criticism in his day and ever since.”

10. Theodore Roosevelt statue – New York City, NY, United States

Photo: George Wirt/Shutterstock and Steve Sanchez Photos/Shutterstock

The towering bronze statue of Theodore Roosevelt, the Governor of New York (1899-1900) and the 26th President of the United States (1901-1909), has stood on the steps in front of the American Museum of Natural History, a city-owned property in New York City since 1940. It depicts him astride a horse while below him a Native American man and an Black man flank him on either side. The statue has been controversial as it clearly conveys racial hierarchy and colonization.

The beginning of the push for the racist statue’s removal commenced in 2017 following the deadly white supremacist Charlottesville rally. The museum held an exhibition titled, “Addressing the statue” in January 2019 that provided context and interpretation towards the history of the statue. On June 21, 2020, the museum requested its removal. The relocation of the statue was approved unanimously by the New York City Public Design Commission on June 21, 2021. On November 26, an agreement was reached between the city and the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, North Dakota, for a long-term loan of the statue, once the library opens in 2026. Until then, the equestrian statue is slated to be kept in storage and a plaque will be installed in its place.

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Your sustainable travel guide to the wild and remote Brazil Atlantic Forest

With flora, fauna, and landscapes to rival the world’s most famous rainforests, the Riberia Valley in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest is an emerging destination that rewards travelers up for a real adventure.

While the Atlantic Forests’ neighbor to the west — i.e. the Amazon — tends to get the most attention, the Atlantic Forest is well-worth a dedicated trip. It’s in the southeast part of Brazil, covering coastal areas around the towns of São Paulo, Curitiba, and Criciúma. The Brazil Atlantic Forest (or Mata Atlântica, as it’s known in Portuguese) is the second-largest rainforest in Central and South America after the Amazon. It covers 34,750 square miles along a 1,158 miles stretch of coast through 17 different Brazilian states.

Photo: Grande Reserva Mata Atlantica

Unfortunately, only about 10 percent of the original forest remains today. Owing to early colonization by Europeans and roughly 500 years of settlements and development, the landscape looks quite different from how it would have in the 14th and 15th centuries. But thanks to sustainable tourism operators and local and national conservation efforts, the remaining portions of the Atlantic Forest are healthy and welcoming to travelers keen on environmentally sustainable tourism who want their tourism money to support conservation efforts.

In the state of São Paulo, eight state parks (entrance fees R$32.00, or $5.78 USD for foreigners) and numerous private biological reserves connect a network of sustainable travel opportunities and adventures for visitors interested in conservation, community-based tourism, and native culture. If you’re dreaming of visiting Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, read on to check out the most sustainable ways to explore the forest’s best sights. The wet, wild, and immersive adventures are generally grouped into three sections of the forest: the caves of Caverna do Diablo State Park, trails around PETAR, and the coastal area around Lagamar de Cananéia State Park.

Brazil’s Atlantic Forest Caves

The state parks that protect the Atlantic Forest were established primarily to protect the environment, not for visitor enjoyment — and that’s exactly the case with Caverna do Diabo (Devil’s Cave) State Park. Though it’s home to an extensive network of more than 400 caves, only a few are accessible to protect the fragile environments from foot traffic. The open caves are designed to be an educational tool to build appreciation for the need to protect the area. Some of the best cave guides are not only native Quilombolas people (and excellent bird watchers!) but also indigenous locals. And visiting the cave system with local guides means you’re supporting a non-extractive economy, supporting guide education, and directly supporting conservation efforts.

Photo: Jonny Bierman

Having visited countless cave systems on four continents myself, I’ve come to know a thing or two about stalactites, stalagmites, and the joys of subterranean adventure. And unlike many of the cave systems I’ve seen in Central America or Southeast Asia, the caves of Caverna do Diabo are in immaculate condition.

I spent the most time in the main Caverna do Diabo cave. This dramatic system has cathedral-sized amphitheaters sprinkled with stalactites and stalagmites soaring nearly five stories high, and they’re in pristine, undisturbed condition. While exploring with my guide Francielle “Fran” Dos Santos Satiro of Caverna do Diabo Aventura (who happens to be the first female guide in the cave system), I learned she meant it when she said “you’re going to get wet.”

The real adventure began after walking through the accessible and well-lit part of the cave. With only a headlamp to illuminate the path beyond that point, we descended into the depths of the cave via a 131-foot long, Indiana Jones-like rappel past towering formations. In this part of the cave, there’s a constant sound of rushing water. Normally, it’s generally recommended to stay away from rushing water — but in this case, moving water means the cave goes even deeper, and I had an expert guide. By gripping a hanging rope and wading through waist- and shoulder-deep water, we arrived at a 16-foot waterfall, fully drenching the few dry body parts we had left. Fortunately, there’s a sauna at the nearby Pousada das Cavernas Lodge to warm up when the adventure is done.

Brazil’s Atlantic Forest Trails

Photo: Hassen Salum/ATTA

In the PETAR (Parque Estadual Turíistico Alta Ribeira) region near Caverna do Diabo, extensive trail networks, river adventures, and more caves attract travelers keen on exploring the area and taking in some of the forest’s most beautiful landscapes. Trails wind through valleys and past rivers, leading to huge waterfalls. The rivers themselves have carved their own routes through the forest over time, and they’re best enjoyed via a raft or ‘duck’ — an inflatable, kayak-type raft.

My guide for these trails was Angela Carla Aguiar de Matos of Parque Aventuras. Aguiar de Matos followed in the footsteps of her grandfather who discovered some of the cave systems in PETAR. While hiking in the rainforest with Coutu Waterfall waiting at the end, I was humbled to learn that I was among the first people she’d ever spoken English with; like many in tourism, Aguiar de Matos was unemployed during the start of the pandemic. She used her downtime to learn English to eventually welcome back American tourists. The PETAR hiking trails Aguiar de Matos guided me along ford rivers through dense jungle, go through caves and past waterfalls, and can take as long as three days to finish. Not surprisingly, most tourists opt for the full- or half-day hikes.

Photo: Legado das Aguas/Facebook

In addition to state parks, Brazil granted environmental protection status to many native communities that have traditional knowledge of the environment and how to sustainably cultivate it. Ensuring the communities are sustainable ensures the land stays under their protection. And in the traditional communities of the Quilombolas — people descended from escaped slaves and the group to which Aguiar de Matos belongs — residents care for the land through the use of traditional agricultural methods. This form of community-based tourism helps visitors understand the many different cultures in Brazil through immersive activities.

In the Quilombolas community, visitors learn about Quilombolas history, go hunting and fishing, hike, and take cooking workshops, all of which all support the well-being and economy of this small community. And by extension, it supports their eco-friendly stewardship of the land. Due to accessibility and language barriers, it’s best to visit through one of the local tour operators like Parque Adventures or Planeta Thrilha.

Photo: Rafael Martos Martins/Shutterstock

At Legado das Àguas, a private, 120-square-mile nature reserve, a multi-pronged business approach blends conservation, reforestation, and sustainable tourism. Legado das Àguas has a sizable nursery program that plants native species where they’re most needed in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. In 2020, they planted more than 17,000 endangered juçara palms. It’s the largest private reserve in the Atlantic Forest and is a popular place for lake kayaking, mountain biking, bird watching, and hiking through a network of boardwalks and trails in the dense forest.

Visitors can spend their time learning about the reforestation efforts, looking for flora and fauna, going bird-watching with a guide, and take one of several site tours explaining the organization’s conservation efforts. However, it’s remote, so you likely need to contact the lodge directly or travel via one of their sustainable tourism partners (recommendations below).

Coastal Atlantic Forest

The section of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest along the coast includes well-known destinations like the popular vacation island of Florianopolis and others more off-the-radar, like São Paulo’s Lagamar de Cananéia State Park.

Lagamar de Cananéia is a stunner of a state park and one where I counted more dolphins jumping leaping from the water than I did tourists. It’s the core zone of the UNESCO Atlantic Forest Biosphere Reserve and is one of the largest breeding grounds for South Atlantic marine species. It teems with wildlife, and dolphin sightings are almost guaranteed. Along the shorelines, mangrove trees store 10 times more carbon per acre than terrestrial forests, making them vitally important in the fight against climate change.

Photo: Hassen Salum/ATTA

In Lagamar de Cananéia, visitors can learn about these important trees without harming the ecosystem by taking a walk along a raised boardwalk. The stunning beaches, picture-perfect palm trees, and unscarred rainforested mountains make it a must-visit destination.

This coastline is also home to three native communities of the Caiçara people, one of which welcomes visitors to learn about and experience their culture through responsible and culturally immersive tours. In the Takuari-ty village, just north of the state park and near the city of Cananéia, visitors can learn traditional song and dance in the main oca (a traditional home), try native foods, or learn to make (and buy) handicrafts from the women and children of the village.

If you’re planning to visit, do so with Matimpererê Experiences. It’s a local ecotourism operator that offers trips to see and hear dolphins and tours to respectfully observe and participate in activities with the native community. It has more than 25 years of experience working in the area, and its work helps native communities be less dependent on outside resources while maintaining traditional living in protected lands.

Getting around São Paulo’s Atlantic Forest

Public transportation is widely available throughout São Paulo state, but you’ll find it’s general easier to reach the Atlantic Forest with a tour operator. Maioba is based in São Paulo city and has many years of experience guiding trips throughout Brazil. Ekoways is a zero-waste, female-owned-and-led regenerative travel tour operator that follows the United Nations sustainable development goals in its work, and Matimpererê Experiences offers additional guided outdoor adventures and tours.

Where to Stay

Conservation and stewardship of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest is a team effort between traditional communities, private enterprises, and governments to establish and protect state parks. But some area accommodations play an equally important role in land stewardship and conveying to guests the importance of conservation.

If you’ve ever heard the term regenerative travel, then you’ll know what to expect from the reforestation program at Pousada das Cavernas (Inn of the Cave). It’s a great example of regenerative tourism: using tourism to leave a place better than you found it. Upon arrival, each guest is welcomed to their room with an endangered baby juçara palm. After planting it, guests can track its growth via a QR code. Juçara palms (Euterpe edulis) are crucial to healthy ecosystems as they provide fruit for many animals throughout the year. They are now protected throughout Brazil and being replanted in droves through programs like this. The hotel is near PETAR and offers a sauna, an oasis-like swimming pool, and massages.

If you’d prefer to be more connected to the land, book a room or tent at Legado das Águas, which also runs a voluntourism operation. Meals are included, and you don’t have to participate in the voluntourism efforts to stay there. If you’re staying on the coast, the oceanfront Hotel Marazul in Cananéia makes for an excellent basecamp for easily reaching coastal adventures and native communities.

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Matador 2022 Travel Awards: Wellness Destinations

The ocean has a certain calming effect. In fact, studies even point to the idea that being near a body of water leads to both better health and wellbeing. So perhaps it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the top wellness destinations our expert travel panel chose for 2022 all center around islands and coastlines.

“Saltwater is the cure for everything,” says Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon of JetSetSarah, “and I think people will gravitate to oceans and beaches to rest and recharge” in 2022.

Coastal destinations have, and likely always will, hold a special place for travelers. Today, hotels, resorts, and beachside towns are dialing in on programs and spaces that bring guests closer to the healing power of the sea — whether that means relaxing in spas or immersing yourself in nature.

JOALI BEING nature retreat in the Maldives

Photo: JOALI BEING

JOALI BEING is the first immersive wellbeing nature retreat island in the Maldives. With the water never far away, JOALI BEING offers wellbeing facilities, including hydrotherapy, movement, and sound healing experiences so guests can to be guided through various elemental therapies and healing experiences. Open living spaces put guests right in nature, while an herbology center heals through a blend of traditional Anatolian remedies. The open-plan dining space has three kitchens with menus curated with the help of the retreat’s nutritionists. One is focused on vegetarian and vegan options, another has an ocean-to-table pescatarian menu, and a third has a wellness-focused full menu (all of which use locally harvested and sustainably sourced ingredients). For the more casual side of relaxation, the tropical beach sanctuary Mojo has a three-layered deck for sundowners by the pool.

Island hopping through southwest Japan

Photo: Amami Oshima/InsideJapan Tours

Four islands in southwest Japan — Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Iriomote Island, and the northern part of Okinawa Island — were listed as UNESCO world heritage sites in 2021. The chain of subtropical islands rim the boundary of the East China Sea and the Philippine Sea. Humans don’t live here, but plenty of endemic species do, making the islands an important ecological treasure with five mammal species, three birds, and three amphibians that are Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered species. They aren’t the only islands in the area to see. Okinawa Islands filled with Ryukyuan culture, historic castles, and world-class diving opportunities can also be found.

InsideJapan has a 12 night Island-Hopping self-guided trip that stays for two nights in Iriomote and includes a day of trekking and kayaking.

Channel Islands National Park, California

Photo: Visit California/Stephen Lam

Few places in the United States are as associated with ocean-side living than California. And as to be expected, wellness retreats, yoga schools, and various ways to connect to the Pacific abound. Take, for example, Alila Marea Beach Resort in Encinitas, which is the home of Spa Alila and all of its wellness experiences deeply rooted in both land and sea, such as minerals and botanicals used by the native Kumeyaay people.

For a different type of wellness that’s more about soaking in nature, Wild Earth Travel runs a wilderness and wellness five-day adventure called Base Camp Channel Islands.The boat, the National Geographic Venture, leaves from Los Angeles and makes stops at three of the five islands in Channel Islands National Park and Catalina Island. Award-winning wellbeing programs center the rejuvenating impact of nature using the ship as a safari-like base camp with paddleboards, kayaks, a wellness specialist, fitness instructors, naturalists, and a National Geographic photo instructor.

Andronis Hotels, Santorini, Greece

Photo: Andronis Hotels, Santorini

Andronis Hotels recently revamped the brand’s wellness program with the launch of a three-day wellbeing retreat for 2022 that aims to harmonize the mind, body, and spirit. The itinerary includes a wellness analysis and the art of bathing class on the first day, digestive support and mindful eating on the second, and nutrition essentials with a private chef cooking class on the third day. Spas at the Andronis Hotel locations in Santorini are destinations in and of themselves with water cycle treatments and yoga sessions overlooking the volcanic cliffs and ocean. Andronis’s wellness focus is unlike any other thanks to one special start, though: a hair profiling test that uses the hair and root from four strands off your head to make a report based on 800 wellness indicators that are used to create your wellness program.

Rosewood Little Dix Bay, British Virgin Islands

Photo: Rosewood Little Dix Bay

“In the British Virgin Islands at Rosewood Little Dix Bay’s the spa will wash away any stresses with its cliffside spa overlooking Sir Francis Drake Channel, its yoga and meditation platform, and its multitude of adventurous outdoor activities, including sailing and visits to the famed Baths National Park,” Collette Stohler, Roamaroo’s director of marketing, says.

The spa is guided by traditional healers, also known as medicine men and women, who use generations-old traditions and natural remedies. Lotions, teas, balms, and oils are derived from African ancestral healing traditions to cleanse the body. Body wraps using jumbie tree leaves, which were brought to the Caribbean from Africa, relieve fatigue, while tamarind, also originally from Africa, reduces pain and lemongrass reduces inflammation. Fill the rest of your time with more relaxation at the two pools, which offer poolside drinks and views of the sea through the volcanic rocks and arching palms.

Asbury Ocean Club, Asbury Park, New Jersey

Photo: Asbury Park Ocean Club/Nikolas Koenig

You don’t need to be far from the hustle and bustle of the city to find wellness and relaxation. The Asbury Ocean Club, which opened in 2019 in Asbury Park, New Jersey, is just an hour from New York City. The pool is on the Terrace with views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and a cocktail bar can whip up ingredients-first cocktails made with fresh juices. A roving granita cart dishes frozen treats that are a burst of cold on a hot day. You’ll find Mediterranean cuisine delivered to you in the pergola, which is covered in wisteria that compliments the many other trees and plants. And then there’s the spa. The wellness classes are exclusive to guests and residents, and include open-air meditation, guided beach runs, and traditional massages and facials.

Nusfjord Arctic Resort, Lofoten, Norway

Photo: Lofoten, Norway/Hurtigruten Expeditions

For northern coastal adventures, awards panel member Charles Post recommends Nusfjord Arctic Resort in Lofoten, Norway.

“If your idea of rest and relaxation is an escape to a small, traditional fisherman’s cabin just steps away from a wood-fired hot tub and sauna beside the sea, hidden away in a small fjord far into the arctic, then this is the place for you.”

The small and secluded fishing village on the Lofoten Islands is just past the mountains and faces the sea. The resort has 20 cabins that are refurbished with the modern comforts we’ve come to expect at a high-end getaway, but none lose their historic charm as fishermen’s rorbu (a house that’s based on land with one half on stilts in the water). There are Nordic fishing excursions to be had, kayaks to take out, and awe-inspiring mountain hikes to undertake, but relaxation is just as easy to find thanks to that wood-fired hot tub and open-air spa. If you’re lucky, you may spot the northern lights from the sauna.

Matador 2022 Travel Awards: Meet the panel

At Matador Network, we believe travel is a force for good, and we envision a world where travel is a transformative experience. A lot has changed over the past few years. Now more than ever, people are turning to the experts to help them navigate our world and gain access to the people, places, and cultures that make getting out there so fulfilling.

So we assembled a panel of experts from various areas of the travel industry who share this belief along with Shannon Marcec, Matador Network’s editorial director, Tim Wenger, Matador Network’s outdoor and transactional content editor, and Morgane Croissant, Matador Network’s deputy editor and culture editor. Together, we created a list of destinations, brands, and movements that best embody our mission of making travel transformative in 2022.

Introducing the Matador 2022 Travel Awards Panel:

Doug Lansky

Doug Lansky has traveled to over 120 countries and authored 10 books, including for Lonely Planet and Rough Guides, and previously wrote a syndicated travel column and hosted a Travel Channel show. His byline can be found at top publications like National Geographic Traveler, Esquire, Men’s Journal, and Skift. Lansky is also a travel speaker who has spoken for the United Nations World’s Tourism Organization and to sold-out audiences at National Geographic Headquarters and nearly 100 universities.

Rachel Pohl

Rachel Pohl is Montana based mountain landscape artist and adventurer who creates colorful, vibrant landscapes of the American West and beyond. She is an artist, adventurer, humanitarian, and environmentalist. She can be found on instagram at .

Collette Stohler

Collette Stohler is the director of marketing at Roamaroo, an award-winning travel blog that documents her life traveling the world full-time with her partner, exploring locations off the beaten path, and inspiring others through her active vagabond lifestyle.

Naledi K. Khabo

Naledi K. Khabo is the CEO of the Africa Tourism Association, a global trade association promoting travel and tourism to Africa. ATA membership includes African governments and their tourism ministers, tourism bureaus and boards, as well as airlines, cruise lines, hotels, resorts, and travel agents.

Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon

Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon is a travel writer, editor, and on-screen host also known as JetSetSarah. She is a self-described “carivangelist,” who ventures to the Caribbean’s beaches and beyond to share the diverse culture, lifestyle, and people of the world’s favorite warm-weather destinations.

Jeff Jenkins

Jeff Jenkins is the founder and CEO of Chubby Diaries, an online community for plus-size travelers who are passionate about seeing the world, experiencing new foods, and learning clever hacks along the way.

Natasha Martin

Natasha Martin is a tourism consultant who specializes in adventure travel and responsible tourism development. She has worked on the frontier of the travel industry for destinations like Myanmar, Nepal, Greenland, and Namibia. She is currently the head of Tourism Innovation and Engagement at NEOM.

Charles Gifford Post

Charles Gifford Post is an ecologist, creative, ecological brand consultant, co-founder of the 501c3 The Nature Project, a National Fellow at The Explorers Club, and a member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Species Survival Commission.

Rue Mapp

Rue Mapp is the founder and CEO of Outdoor Afro, a national not-for-profit organization with offices in Oakland, California, and Washington DC. Mapp oversees a carefully selected and trained national volunteer leadership team of more than 100 men and women who represent 56 cities around the world.

Kristin Braswell

Kristin Braswell is a writer and entrepreneur committed to changing the world through travel. She has visited more than 20 countries and created lasting memories with people and places that inspire her through her brand, CrushGlobal.

Elizabeth Ojo

Elizabeth Ojo is the director of operations for the African Leadership University School of Wildlife Conservation. The pan-African education program is helping people from across the continent become principal changemakers in the business of conservation for people, animals, and the land through real-world experience.

Zachary Burr Abel

Zachary Burr Abel is the actor-turned-points-and-miles blogger behind Monkey Miles. His work helps readers navigate the world of award currency and max out travel plans with points, awards, miles, or vouchers.

Vizzy hard seltzer will buy you a drink if your holiday season flight is delayed

Flying during the holiday season can be rough. Delays can feel inevitable, what with inclement weather, overcrowded airports, and bags with so many jackets and presents stuffed in them that zippers always look ready to pop. It’s times like these that the trusty airport bar becomes a communal gathering ground for delayed souls. After all, there are few better ways to kill a delay than with a drink in hand.

This year, on the three busiest holiday travel days of the year from December 21 through 23, Vizzy hard seltzer is putting 5,000 airport delay drinks on its tab. Of-age travelers simply need to visit Vizzy’s Holi-Delay site, enter their information, and receive an $8 digital prepaid card. The brand has 5,000 of the drink payouts to hand out over the three days.

And if you happen to be stuck in the Denver airport (or just happen to be passing through one of the country’s busiest airports), Vizzy has something a little extra for you. Vizzy pop-ups will have on-site drinks and Vizzy samples at the Denver International Airport from the 21 to 23. Find the on-site drinks at Concourse C near Gate C29, and the samples at Midway Airport at Concourse A near Gate A7.

“When you’re traveling for the holidays, there’s nothing worse than seeing your flight has been delayed so, we wanted Vizzy to step in and make an annoying situation, a little bit more positive*” Carol Krienik, associate marketing manager for Vizzy Hard Seltzer, said in a press release. “Whether it’s enjoyed at the airport or when you finally reunite with friends and family, we hope Vizzy brings some fun and flavor to your drinking this season.”

No matter how bad the delay bug hits you, stay calm out there and remember we’re all in this holiday travel mess together.

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The 12 best Airbnbs in Denver for beer tours, 420, and mountain vibes

Sipping a cold brew on a hot summer afternoon under the gaze of the towering Rockies should be a universal human right. In Denver, it pretty much is thanks to more than 150 breweries and dozens of beer bars to choose from — not to mention the behemoth Coors factory just up Sixth Avenue in Golden. The only way to experience this properly is to book a stay in the city, lace up your best walking shoes, and hit the pavement because it’s never too far to the next taproom. These Airbnbs in Denver put you close to the city’s best breweries.

We hope you love the Airbnb Denver options 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.

1. Entire guesthouse walking distance to RiNo and Five Points

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Before arriving in Denver, write these four letters on the back of your hand, so you don’t forget them: RiNo. In Mile High parlance, this stands for River North, a little section of the city that’s unequivocally the greatest beer neighborhood in the United States, and probably the world. Likely, no one has ever tried this, but theoretically, you could grab a group of friends and split up — each heading to a different brewery — and conduct a solo pub crawl for multiple hours without ever running into each other. This Airbnb in Denver is the perfect start and endpoint of said pub craw. Fortunately, it’s also located along a popular route for food delivery services and a stone’s throw from The Source food hall.

Nearby breweries: Blue Moon, Mockery Brewing, Black Shirt Brewing, Cohesion Brewing, River North Brewery, Ironton Distillery and Crafthouse, 14er Brewing and Taphouse
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $108 per night

Book Now

2. Rustic red brick loft in Five Points

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Five Points is Denver’s most historic neighborhood, home to a classic jazz culture and multiple historic music venues. This steampunk-designed loft is in the heart of the neighborhood and the living room is the perfect place for a delivery spread from nearby Birdcall, one of Denver’s hottest restaurants for fried chicken. Plan a route for your day in advance because there are brewpubs in every direction. You want to finish along Larimer or Walnut Streets, effectively making a nearly completed circle. Your legs (or a bike) can carry you even farther to Coors Field, home of the Colorado Rockies, and its surrounding nightlife district. This area is also home to — appropriately — several more breweries and the city’s most famous beer bar, Falling Rock Tap House, which features more than 200 brands of suds.

Nearby breweries: Spangalang Brewing, Woods Boss Brewing, Great Divide, Our Mutual Friend, Odell Five Points Brewhouse, Epic Brewing, 10 Barrel
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $159 per night

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3. Townhouse in RiNo/Five Points with yard

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This townhouse is the perfect middle point between the two listings above. The townhouse itself is cozy and spacious, with a fenced-in yard for patio sessions. A Colorado flag provides an ideal selfie backdrop. From RiNo and Five Points, head east via car to visit City Park, a large greenspace home to both the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Downtown Denver is also a quick jaunt away. Of the Airbnbs in Denver for beer drinkers, this one is the most centrally located.

Nearby breweries: Spangalang Brewing, Woods Boss Brewing, Blue Moon, Mockery Brewing, Black Shirt Brewing, Cohesion Brewing, River North Brewery, Ironton Distillery, and Crafthouse, 14er Brewing and Taphouse, Great Divide, Our Mutual Friend, Odell Five Points Brewhouse, Epic Brewing, 10 Barrel
Three guests, one bedroom
$179 per night

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4. Sunny cottage in the trendy LoHi neighborhood

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

LoHi, or Lower Highlands, is the trendiest part of town. This Airbnb is in a perfect spot for beer drinking, skyline views, and rooftop patios. Start your day with lunch at Avanti Food and Beverage, a massive two-story food hall with a patio overlooking the downtown skyline. Here, plan your beer trail through the neighborhood beginning west of Interstate 25, and then proceeding under the overpass to the breweries on the east side. Denver Beer Co. buzzes with action from the early afternoon on, particularly on weekends, so make this the meeting point if other groups will be joining you along the way. For a bit of variety on tap along with a great meal, stop into the Ale House.

Nearby breweries: Zuni Street Brewing, Prost Brewing, Denver Beer Co., Cerveceria Colorado
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $164 per night

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5. Architect-owned home in the Arts District, Lincoln Park

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Denver is on full display in this home, lined with local art and furniture and featuring a ladder-accessed loft. This home is great for small groups, and it has plenty of space to lounge without crowding each other. The neighborhood, Lincoln Park, is a great base for exploring Denver because it’s just south of the downtown traffic and crowds, but still a short bike ride or Uber from the action if you want to head out to a show or restaurant in the city center. The Santa Fe Arts District is home to the popular First Friday Art Walk (and Renegade Brewing, which is the place to be before, during, and after the outdoor events). The Denver Broncos stadium, Empower Field at Mile High, is also nearby. And the neighborhood is home to a handful of cozy breweries popular with locals meeting for after-work pints or plotting their mountain escape for the coming weekend.

Nearby breweries: Wit’s End Brewing, Renegade Brewing, Raices Brewing
Six guests, two bedrooms
$258 per night

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6. Speer/Broadway townhouse with hot tub

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Another solid beer district sits along Broadway, just south of downtown and Capitol Hill. This area has long been known as a hub for the local punk, metal, and indie scenes, with venues large and small, including the Gothic Theatre and Hi-Dive. This Denver townhome rental is walking distance from Broadway and Lincoln Ave., and no one has ever complained about a hot tub after a day of brews cruisin’.

Nearby breweries: TRVE, Baere Brewing, Banded Oak Brewing, Counter Culture Brewery + Grille, Lockdown Brewery + Kitchen
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $140 per night

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7. Historic Victorian house in Baker neighborhood

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Just north of the above listing, this home remains within walking distance of Broadway and its brewpubs and nightlife while offering more space to accommodate larger groups like bachelor or bachelorette parties among close friends. The neighborhood is vibrant and rich in art, music, and dining, while the home remains tucked away and quiet. Parking is included for two or three vehicles, a major bonus in the city.

Nearby breweries: TRVE, Baere Brewing, Banded Oak Brewing, Counter Culture Brewery + Grille, Lockdown Brewery + Kitchen, Renegade Brewing
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $250 per night

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8. Large house near Sloan’s Lake/West Colfax

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

West Colfax is too often overlooked by Denver’s beer guests. The neighborhood not only has the city’s best lake for boating, lounging, or running around, it’s also home to a tight collection of craft breweries that have become staples in the area. This house is perfect for larger groups — again, bachelor or bachelorette parties, family reunions, or work retreats — as well as those visiting town for a Broncos game and wanting to add some beer stops along the way.

Nearby breweries: Joyride Brewing, WestFax Brewing, Barquantine Brewing, Oasis Brewing, Hogshead Brewery, Seedstock Brewery
Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $228 per night

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9. Downtown and Five Points loft — best bachelor party Airbnb in Denver

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This loft is among the best bachelor or bachelorette party Airbnbs in Denver, no doubt. Right downtown with room for 14 guests, this loft has a rooftop spa and lounge space with an incredible skyline view. It’s also within walking distance to no less than half a dozen breweries and much of the city’s nightlife. Split that cost up among your crew, and don’t even worry about renting a car or taking rideshares — you can walk and take the light rail everywhere from here.

Nearby breweries: Spangalang Brewing, Woods Boss Brewing, Blue Moon, Mockery Brewing, Black Shirt Brewing, Cohesion Brewing, River North Brewery, Ironton Distillery, and Crafthouse, 14er Brewing and Taphouse, Great Divide, Our Mutual Friend, Odell Five Points Brewhouse, Epic Brewing, 10 Barrel
14 guests, three bedrooms
Price: $732 per night

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420 friendly Airbnbs in Denver10. 420-friendly Airbnb near downtown Denver

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Located just off Ruby Hill Park, this 420-friendly Denver Airbnb gives you access to the best of the city including Santa Fe Arts District and South Broadway, both just minutes away. In winter, Ruby Hill Park features a snowboard jib park — perfect for a pre-420 activity. Hop on Highway 285 west towards Interstate 70 when the mountains call, or catch the light rail do downtown Denver for nightlife, live music, and events. You’ll love the video game artwork in the home, including framed game inserts and a large Zelda bit artwork in one of the bedrooms.

Book Now

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $135 per night

11. Mt. Rosalie Cabin, Bailey

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Mountain cabins and 420 go together like skiing and PBR. This Colorado cabin on Airbnb is located in Bailey, just south of the Denver metro, is the quaintest of all Denver 420-friendly Airbnbs. Despite being a mountain cabin, the property is outfitted with a large living room, kitchen, bathroom, and plenty of space for your gear.

Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $106 per night

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12. 420-friendly Denver Airbnb near RiNo, breweries, ballpark

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Stay in the heart of Denver in this 420-friendly Airbnb. The spot is well-equipped and cozy, with a great new kitchen to prepare a post-420 feast. Everything in central Denver is either walkable or a quick Uber ride away, including plenty of bars, restaurants, Coors Field, and the 16th St. Mall. RiNo is Denver’s trendiest neighborhood, and a stay here puts you right in the heart of it. There’s also a workstation, making this property ideal for remote workers.

Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $78 per night

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Find the Arctic winter wonderland of your dreams at Finland’s TreeHouse Hotel

We hope you love the stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

I despise cold weather. As someone who lives in New York, I rarely seek out destinations that promise below-freezing temperatures. But then I was invited on a trip to Finland that included a stay at Arctic TreeHouse Hotel in Rovaniemi, also known as the birthplace of Santa Claus — something that I cannot confirm with confidence. Nevertheless,I was pretty intrigued, to say the least.

Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland. The city spans nearly 3,000 square miles, yet only about 63,000 people live there. Winter is obviously the busy season for tourism, and after visiting in November, it’s easy to see why.

Getting to the Treehouse isn’t the easiest objective. While there are no direct flights to Rovaniemi from the United States, there are quite a few weekly jaunts from Helsinki to the small Arctic Village via Finnair. The journey takes about an hour and a half, and if you’re going in the colder months (which here means anytime past October), then expect the flight to be pretty full.

The Arctic TreeHouse has a shuttle to come and get you from the airport. I didn’t experience a particularly scenic drive, considering Rovaniemi gets about five hours of sunlight in November, but the trip is only about five minutes. The entire resort is set in the middle of a snow-laden forest, with the main building dedicated to a gift shop, lounge area, restaurant, and reception.

Photo: Arctic TreeHouse Hotel

The sentiment that best described the mood as soon as I reached the check-in point is the Danish word hygge. As I checked in, a fireplace crackled warmly in the background, and tranquil guests were scattered throughout the lounge, reading books while sipping wine and hot cocktails. Lappish-inspired reindeer hides adorn the floors and furniture. Behind the reception area is the restaurant and bar area, where all meals are held at the resort. And the rooms are just as enticing as the common areas.

Photo: Arctic TreeHouse Hotel

The TreeHouse has 52 suites, five glass houses (which have multiple bedrooms and personal saunas), and three executive suites, each of which is equipped with WiFi, a Nespresso machine, a minibar, safety box, bathrobe with slippers, and travel-size bath products by LUMI. All en-suite bathrooms are equipped with heated floors. Locally made furniture and decorations cover the minimalist style spaces, though the biggest selling point of the rooms are the floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the forest, which are perhaps best enjoyed while laying in bed. I’m not sure if I’ve ever gasped upon entering a hotel room before, but even the basic suite was enough to garner an audible response.

Needless to say, the views from the TreeHouse are simply stunning – at least during the few hours per day of sunlight that allow you to gaze farther afield from the comfort of your room. If you’re lucky, the Northern Lights may make an appearance, though that particular view is nature’s decision. I can’t say I was lucky on that front, though all the more reason to return, I suppose.

Photo: Arctic TreeHouse Hotel

The isolation of the rooms is both a blessing and a curse. It falls into the latter category if you need something from the main lounge, restaurant, and reception area. For this, there are two options: Trek through the cold on a five or so minute walk, or contact the front desk for a shuttle service to and from the rooms. Reception is available 24 hours via WhatsApp to assist guests with any and all needs. I happened to want my room cooler at around 4 AM one night, for example. I texted, received a response in two minutes, and the deed was complete.

Photo: Arctic TreeHouse Hotel

All meals at the hotel are served at Rakas Restaurant & Bar, located in the same building as reception. Breakfast is served buffet style, while lunch options come from a daily à-la-carte menu. Menus change according to the season and feature locally sourced ingredients. Vegetarians, fear not. I indulged in an hours-long tasting menu our first night there, and my vegetarian options were simply exquisite.

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the restaurant is its wall art, which was designed and created by Rakas’s in-house chef, and its connection to what’s on your place. Each painting depicts an abstract visual of a current menu item. Once the painting sells, the item is removed from the menu for good. Some of the current menu favorites of our group included silky soup (Jerusalem artichokes with truffle and lemon-flavored apple), king crab toast, and roasted veggies with garlic oil, as well as the juicy classic burger with mayonnaise (also available vegan). Don’t skip on the Rocky Road to the North dessert, composed of chocolate cake, mint krokant (chocolate with mind), and cloudberry ice cream.

Many of the drinks available trend local, too. Most of the regional breweries and distilleries are located about an hour south of Lapland, though you can get a taste without leaving TreeHouse. I enjoyed a local dark lager from Aihki, as well as taste a few local gins from Kyrö. However, the understated Minttu stole the show for me. This sweet peppermint liqueur packs a serious punch at 50 percent ABV, but it goes down smooth as hell. The spirit is even more dangerous in a hot chocolate, of which I had at least one spiked with Minttu every night by the fire.

Photo: Arctic TreeHouse Hotel

For those looking to engage in off-site activities, TreeHouse’s guest services can organize sauna visits, outdoor activities, and local dining options. There are a few bars and restaurants in the “city center” of Rovaniemi, as well as a bit of shopping, but I’d personally recommend maximizing your time at the hotel. For children (and Christmas-eager adults), Rovaniemi’s SantaPark is within steps of the hotel. The beautifully executed facility is geared toward children, and good luck getting the staff to break character.

Overall, the TreeHouse provides a one-of-a-kind experience like no other. Whether looking to enjoy the great (snowy) outdoors or simply post up by the fire and get your relaxation on, the TreeHouse offers a curated experience for each and every guest that walks through the doors. I’m not sure when I’ll make it back, but I’ll certainly be dreaming of my view from above for months to come – especially during the dark days of a New York City winter.

Pricing starts around $380 per night during high season in winter if you book well in advance, and as low as $230 per night the rest of the year.

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How to have a perfect weekend in Sequoia National Park with kids

How far would you be willing to travel to find a place where giants exist? They’re ancient, they’re alive, and they’re very, very tall.

What if that same place was filled with wildlife, gentle paths through natural features, and such dense forest that when you look up, sometimes all you see are canopies of leaves?

Of course, it’s Sequoia National Park, and it’s all those things and more. It’s a wonderful place to be with kids, and to feel like a kid again. Thanks to easy access and short walking paths, exploring Sequoia National Park with kids is far easier than trekking through larger parks like Glacier or Denali.

Sequoia is one of nine national parks in California and abuts Kings Canyon National Park; the two are often referred to as one place. Sequoia is a 5-hour drive from San Francisco and a little less from Los Angeles, making it a very road-trippable destination for a weekend trip. Traveling to Sequoia National Park with kids involves only a car ride from most cities on the West Coast, saving the hassle and headache of flying or taking a park shuttle with cranky kids in tow.

How to get to Sequoia National Park

Reaching the park is fairly easy. If you’re coming from the south, take Highway 198 through Three Rivers and into the park. It’s a gorgeous road but also narrow and windy, so plan ahead if your kids are prone to car sickness.

If you’re coming from San Francisco, you’ll go through Fresno and take the same road. Alternatively, for a more direct and less windy route, head east out of Fresno to enter Kings Canyon National Park, just above Sequoia National Park. Note that the road connecting the two parks occasionally closes during heavy snow or may require chains and/or snow tires.

When to visit Sequoia National Park with kids

In the southern Sierra Nevada Mountains, Sequoia gets snow, but not as much as places like Lake Tahoe or Yosemite. That means you can enjoy the vibrant scenery any season — but you’ll have a different experience based on when you visit. Summer brings the most daylight hours but also the biggest crowds, so summer and fall are probably the best times to visit for an ideal blend of mild weather, less-crowded trails, and cheaper accommodation.

If your kiddos already have their own down jackets, visit in winter — there’s something very special about visiting the park when it’s covered in snow. The park becomes a playground for kids, and photographers will love the contrast of white snow and massive green trees. Of course, visiting Sequoia National Park with kids any time outside of the summer means pulling them out of school for a few days if you’re trying to go mid-week, but you can always squeeze in some science and ecology lessons with the park’s junior ranger program.

Bring on the magic: Things to see and do with kids in Sequoia National Park

Photo: Ana Ruiz

If you choose to enter by Kings Canyon National Park, a must-stop sight to kickstart your family adventure is the General Grant Tree Trail. This .8-mile, stroller-friendly trail will bring you up close to giant sequoias, including a fallen sequoia your kids can climb in. This is also where you’ll find the General Grant Tree, the third-largest tree in the world.

The General Grant trail is a great stop to make on your first day, even if you’re coming from the south. And on your drive back to Sequoia along Generals Highway, you’ll have outstanding views of the park. There are giant trees on both sides of the road for most of the drive. You’ll find a couple of pullouts on the side of the road, ideal for taking unique family pictures surrounded by trees up to 3,000 years old.

Start your second day in Sequoia National Park with kids by getting an early start for the most-visited area in the park: the General Sherman Trail. It’s a 1.2-mile loop trail that takes hikers to the General Sherman Tree. It’s a massive Sequoia at 275 feet tall, and the largest living tree in the world. It’s humbling to feel so tiny next to the massive tree, and even if your kids don’t appreciate the meaningfulness of seeing it, they’ll still love how massive it is. The trail is stroller-friendly and accessible all year. It gains about 200 feet and there’s sometimes a shuttle available during busy times.

Photo: Songquan Deng/Shutterstock

Unfortunately, this area was hugely impacted by the KNP Complex Fire in the fall of 2021, requiring extensive clearing and cleanup and destroying many ancient trees. Given the connection between climate change and larger, more frequent fires, you’ll want to check ahead on what areas are open before making your plans.

From the General Sherman Trail, drive south to the Big Trees trailhead. It’s a .8-mile loop and one of the most popular stops in Sequoia National Park with kids. Maybe it’s the name that evokes the promise of the giant flora you’ll find beyond the trailhead, maybe it’s because you get to breathe in the scents and sights of the forest, but the trail is magical — as is the opportunity to see so many sequoias at once. You’ll feel like you’re in the heart of the park.

Be sure to give your kids time to explore, walk, run, and touch their surroundings. They’re bound to feel amazed by the size of the trees and they — and you — will want to absorb and observe every moment of it. Hide and seek is a downright must-do with kids.

Photo: Ana Ruiz

To wrap up your second day, drive to the Tunnel Log, just a short distance from the Big Trees Trail. This is where you’ll find the often-photographed fallen giant sequoia cars are able to drive through. You don’t need to walk at all to reach it, but if you’d like to take photos, you’ll have to pull your car out of the way. Keep in mind that the Tunnel Log is completely covered in snow during winter and unreachable by car. It reopens every year at some point in the spring, depending on snowfall totals.

Where to stay in Sequoia National Park with kids

The only lodge available inside the park is Wuksachi Lodge. It’s convenient for families as it’s only a short drive to the trails and also has an on-site restaurant, which is one of the few spots in the park to find food. You’ll probably want to make reservations in advance on weekends or in the summer. Another perk of the hotel is its amazing night sky. Since the hotel area is very dark at night, you’ll be able to witness one of the most vibrant night skies you’ve ever seen on a clear night. It’s not an official Dark Sky Park, but it does host astronomy events and festivals throughout the year.

Outside the park, the closest hotels to the entrance are those on Sierra Drive, around the town of Three Rivers. You could also stay at one of a few lodges and tented camps in Kings Canyon National Park or book an Airbnb or cabin just outside the park.

Tips on navigating Sequoia National Park with kids

Photo: Ana Ruiz

If you’re traveling with a baby or toddler in spring, summer, or fall, you’ll be fine with a stroller on many of the trails; the easy ones have very little elevation gain. However, for winter, a baby carrier will be the only way to carry kids across snowier trails, especially in the Big Trees area.

While hiking, you might as well take your time. None of the green (easy) trails are very long and with so many things to see, you should be able to visit them easily no matter the age of your children or how slowly they move. You could take advantage of the parks’ ranger program, download a cell phone app to help your kid identify plants by taking photos, or bring notebooks so your kids can draw pictures of what they see along the way. Make an adventure out of the trails and you’ll be amazed at how much fun your kids have just by walking.

Snacks and water are limited in the park, so buy everything you’ll need before you enter the park. And be prepared for a weak or non-existent phone signal inside Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks. The only places where you’ll likely have service (or be able to use Wi-Fi) are the park visitor centers and Wuksachi Lodge. Be sure to ask for a park map when driving through the entrance gate, and download a Google map for offline use to make sure you don’t get lost while exploring.

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A handy guide to consuming cannabis in Europe

Cannabis is rising in popularity in Europe. Though it’s still a niche interest compared to the proliferation of cannabis culture in the United States, studies have found that up to one in 10 adults use it recreationally in some EU countries. Additionally, governments are increasingly voting to decriminalize the drug, and Malta recently became the first EU country to legalize recreational cannabis outright.

Like with any substance, it’s important to know the laws and regulations before considering consuming. Because while cannabis is tolerated in places like the Netherlands, only low-THC “light” cannabis is allowed in countries like Italy.

In general, legal concerns decrease dramatically after the cannabis is in hand. Locals who consume typically have their trusted dealers, though there are also dealers on encrypted apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. As a basic rule, anyone asking for payment other than cash upon delivery (pre-paying, using a digital currency, or any type of prepaid card) is usually running a scam. As with anywhere else in the world, dealers selling in public spaces cater to tourists and there’s always a risk of paying more for smaller amounts or receiving cannabis laced with more dangerous substances.

That said, a shift in perspective on cannabis use can be seen spreading across the continent, as more and more governments vote in favor of decriminalization, while a handful of countries stretch for complete legalization. While most of the countries on this list do not currently have easy, legal access to recreational cannabis, there are some places that are far more lenient. This is what to know before considering cannabis use in 13 EU countries popular among tourists.

This information is drawn from local and international sources. It’s intended for educational purposes only and in no way constitutes legal advice

BelgiumCzech RepublicDenmarkFranceGermanyItalyLuxembourgMaltaNetherlandsNorwayPortugalSpainSwitzerlandBelgium

In 2001, the Belgian government ended the prosecution of people who grow a cannabis plant for personal use. In 2003, cannabis was set apart from other narcotics with a special set of guidelines around its use. These new decriminalization guidelines mean that unproblematic users who weren’t a public nuisance would not be prosecuted. This changed in 2015 when, in response to increased use by younger Belgians, laws were updated to criminalize possession of more than three grams. However, in the same year, medicinal cannabis products, such as Sativex, were made available in pharmacies for specific conditions.

Cannabis laws to know in Belgium: Personal cultivation and consumption of a single female marijuana plant, for medicinal reasons, has been legal since 2019. However, it is still generally illegal to consume or sell. Cannabis use near schools is a serious offense and can be met with fines of €8,000 to €800,000 (approximately $9,000 to $900,000) and three months to a year in prison.

Czech Republic

Although recreational cannabis is illegal in the Czech Republic, is it legal for medicinal purposes. Currently, prescriptions from specialized doctors can allow for up to 180 grams of dry cannabis to be obtained each month (approximately 6 grams a day). The cultivation of up to five marijuana plants per individual is now permitted, although only if they are deemed to be for personal use. Generally, cannabis use is tolerated in public, as long as you are considerate and discreet. However, if you meet the wrong police officer you might end up with a fine.

Cannabis laws to know in Czech Republic: Though decriminalized, civil fines of up to 15,000 CZK ($688) may be imposed for possession of more than 10 grams of cannabis or 5 grams of cannabis resin, although the cost of the fine is frequently much lower. Possession of larger amounts is not decriminalized and can lead to criminal charges of intent to distribute. Minor offenders may receive a year in prison, however, cannabis traffickers can be sentenced to between two and 18 years.

Denmark

Cannabis is illegal in Denmark for recreational use. Medical use has been allowed since 2011, though prescriptions are generally only prescribed to eliminate pain, nausea, and muscle stiffness in patients suffering from cancer or multiple sclerosis.

A tiny, liberal commune known as Freetown Christiania, which sprang up in the 1970s, is well known for its cannabis trade. Adjacent to Copenhagen, Christiania is a vibrant community with its own schools and theaters, as its own set of laws.” While Christiania has never officially been recognized by the Danish government, the people of Christinia regularly use and sell cannabis. The famous Pusher Street, or Green Light District, is a long road lined with stalls selling many varieties of cannabinoids. Whether you prefer grinding your own supply or need a pre-rolled product, you can find it here. This liberal mindset makes Christinia a busy tourist attraction. The catch in this wonderful scenario is that cannabis is still illegal, so at any moment a police patrol or raid may occur. Fortunately, tourists with small amounts usually have to face, at worst, a small fine of around 520 DKK (about $80).

Cannabis laws to know in Denmark: Although selling and consuming cannabis is illegal in Denmark, cannabis can be found in Freetown Christiania. While you may find what you need in the community’s Green Light District, be aware that police may unexpectedly appear.

France

France has some of the most strict cannabis laws in Europe. It’s illegal to possess, grow, sell, or distribute cannabis, and medical marijuana is also illegal (the first trials for medical use in France began in mid-2021). This is despite the fact that, by some accounts, France has one of the highest rates of cannabis users in the EU. French president Emmanuel Macron is emphatically against legalization of any kind. Penalties for possession and use include fines and imprisonment.

Cannabis laws to know in France: Cannabis is illegal in all forms in France.

Germany

In Germany, recreational cannabis use is currently illegal, albeit decriminalized. You may receive a prescription for medicinal cannabis if you are seriously ill and have no other therapeutic alternative. Despite this, Berlin is filled with many liberal young adults who regularly use cannabis, and you can often find the canal-side parks filled with groups of friends smoking and drinking beers in the warmer months. While its decriminalized nature means that police tend to look the other way if you’re not causing trouble, it is currently against the law.

All this might be changing soon as Germany’s new coalition government has announced its plans to legalize recreational cannabis across the country — though new laws haven’t yet been put into place.

Cannabis laws to know in Germany: Recreational cannabis use is currently illegal in Germany, however, persons caught with small amounts of cannabis may not be prosecuted if they are discreet and are not a public nuisance. Generally, across Germany, you may possess up to six grams, although that may vary depending on the state. In Berlin, you may frequently be let off with a warning or seizure of your drugs by the police if you are caught with up to 10 grams.

Photo: RossHelen/Shutterstock

Italy

While the use of recreational cannabis is illegal in Italy, Law 79, introduced in 2014, classes cannabis as a decriminalized, low-danger drug. Additionally, ‘light marijuana’ may be purchased in some stores across Italy but it only has a THC content of up to 0.5 percent.

Medicinal cannabis was legalized in Italy in 2013. Those suffering from chronic pain and conditions including cancer, multiple sclerosis, and Tourette syndrome can be prescribed cannabis. However, users needed to buy imported products that could cost them up to €50 ($57) a gram. The Italian Ministry of Health only authorized the first Italian company, Bio Hemp Farming, to grow medicinal cannabis in 2021.

Cannabis laws to know in Italy: Possession of up to 1.5 grams is not considered a felony. Although you will not be prosecuted, the law is upheld in a range of ways, depending on the mood of the police officer who catches you. Some may give you a warning or seize your stash, some may give you a fine, and some police may confiscate your passport or driver’s license. Anyone caught selling cannabis may receive a fine of up to €75,000 (about $85,000).

Luxembourg

In 2001, Luxembourg decriminalized cannabis and replaced prison sentences with a fine that can range between €250 and €2,500 (about $283 to $2,830). Luxembourg legalized medicinal in 2017, primarily for patients who have illnesses that don’t respond to traditional treatments. In 2021, the Luxembourg government officially legalized the cultivation of up to 4 cannabis plants per household for personal recreational use.

Cannabis laws to know in Luxembourg: You can now legally cultivate up to four plants in your residence, indoors or outdoors, for personal use if you are over 18. Currently, you may only consume cannabis in private, but if you are caught in the possession of under three grams in public you may only be fined as little as €25 ($28). However, any more than that and you may be charged with intent to distribute and face far more serious consequences.

MaltaCannabis laws to know in Malta: Adults can possess up to seven grams and grow up to four plants. Smoking in public is still illegal, and consuming in front of a child can result in fines of up to €500 (about $564).Netherlands

Famed throughout the Western world as a haven for cannabis consumers in Europe, the Netherlands does indeed tolerate cannabis use in many of its major cities. However, cannabis is illegal in the Netherlands and, despite its decriminalization, people caught repeatedly or with larger amounts could still face a fine or even prison.

Derived from their 1928 Opium Act, an agreement was made by the Dutch officials known as the Gedoogbeleid, or Tolerance Policy. This meant that people who were using “soft” recreational drugs were tolerated, so long as they weren’t causing harm to themselves or others. Selling cannabis is still illegal, although coffeeshops are permitted to sell cannabis provided they adhere to strict guidelines. Amsterdam is home to many famous coffeeshops, though there have been proposals to ban tourists from the establishments. Medicinal cannabis is also legal, although most prescriptions are for cannabinoid products rather than the actual plant matter.

Cannabis laws to know in the Netherlands: Consuming cannabis is generally tolerated as long as users are discreet and are not being a nuisance. Cannabis use within coffeeshops is permitted and preferred. Using cannabis around children, on public transport, or near schools is far less tolerated and could cause you to face more serious consequences.

Norway

Although cannabis use is not fully legal, in 2017, it was decriminalized by the Norwegian parliament. A shift in perspective on cannabis use meant that people found with personal use amounts were not a police priority. Moves to further relax cannabis laws have been met with opposition from Norway’s more conservative political parties.

In 2018, the Norwegian Medicines Agency allowed the use of Sativex as a treatment for conditions that can’t be managed using regular methods. Access to this medicinal form of cannabis is highly restricted and no actual cannabis plant prescriptions are available.

Cannabis laws to know in Norway: Recreational cannabis use is not legal in Norway, and persons found with less than 15 grams may face a fine of up to 1,500 NOK (approximately $2,500). Cultivation of cannabis is still strictly illegal. Those caught may be charged with intent to distribute and face a fine and a prison sentence of up to two years.

Portugal

Portugal pioneered a new set of progressive laws in 2021: the decriminalization of all illicit substances for personal use. While recreational cannabis is still illegal, the Portuguese government understood that drug abuse was a symptom and not an epidemic. By encouraging persons found with illicit substances to attend rehab, and offering support rather than imprisonment, overall drug use dropped across the country.

This leniency does not extend to the cultivation or sale of cannabis, which are both still serious criminal offenses. Medicinal cannabis was legalized in 2018, but it’s accessible primarily to those with serious conditions where more conventional treatments fail to work.

Cannabis laws to know in Portugal: If you are caught with less than what’s considered a 10-day supply for the first time, you are generally not given any civil penalties. Repeat offenders may be evaluated by legal experts, medical professionals, and social workers to determine if addiction treatment is necessary. Those found to be possessing more than this supply, approximately 25 grams of cannabis or five grams of hash, may be charged with intent to distribute and face serious punishment.

Spain

Spain isn’t as open with cannabis consumption and sales as somewhere like the US or Canada, but it’s also among the most lenient countries in Europe — especially in southern Spain. Private use is permitted at residences and cannabis clubs, and residents can grow up to two plants or become a member at a consumption club in Barcelona or elsewhere. That said, navigating Spain’s cannabis clubs can have its own difficulties for tourists.

Cannabis laws to know in Spain: Trafficking or selling cannabis is illegal, and you can have your possessions seized, receive a fine, or be subject to jail time. The cannabis clubs are a loophole similar to Dutch coffeeshops.

Switzerland

While not in the EU, Switzerland is still a central European country with promising cannabis laws. Technically, cannabis is currently illegal in Switzerland, but a law starting in 2012 decriminalized the possession of small amounts of cannabis for personal use. Anyone caught with a quantity large enough to be distributed can still face more serious sentencing. Medicinal cannabis use is legal for those suffering from multiple sclerosis or paraplegia, but only in the form of Sativex. “Light marijuana” containing less than 1 percent THC may be legally purchased and consumed.

In October 2021, plans were announced for a new law to legalize recreational cannabis use after a parliamentary commission studying recreational use. Whether the law will be passed in 2022 and, if so, how many grams and plants will be within the new legal limit remains to be seen..

Cannabis laws to know in Switzerland: If you are caught with less than 10 grams of cannabis, it’s deemed to be for personal use and you have to pay a flat fine of 100 CHF ($108). Repeat offenders, or those caught with up to four kilograms, have to pay increasingly higher rates that’s calculated according to monthly income. Over four kilograms is deemed as trafficking, which carries penalties of up to three years in prison.

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