Matador Network's Blog, page 559
October 25, 2021
A therapist’s guide to sexifying your couples staycation
We know that couples who travel together reap the rewards. Traveling couples reported feeling better about their communication, romance, and quality time together in the US Travel Association’s survey than those who do not. Two-thirds said at least one key piece of their relationship was better after taking a trip together. But there is no need to follow glossy brochures to faraway destinations to get a relational boost. Intentional couples can use a few couple staycation ideas to create adventure their way.
While everyone defines adventure differently, couples report that these three things create a rewarding travel experience: taking a break from the day-to-day, being adventurous, and sharing new experiences. Fresh getaways take these concepts and add a few creative twists. By letting go of planning, creating surprises, exploring overlooked destinations, and choosing meaningful experiences, you can have a romantic adventure across the country or a short drive from home.
Getting out of the grind by letting someone else take over
Photo: Pack Up + Go
At one time, do-it-yourself trip planning made travel agents either obsolete or only considered for special occasions to many travelers. But in this decision-overload world, it’s adventurous, even a bit radical, to turn the reins over to someone else.
For something completely unexpected, the Pack Up + Go travel agency will create a surprise domestic trip, including surprise couple staycations. Travelers fill out a pre-trip survey including budget, dates, and preferences and leave the rest to the team. Founder Lillian Rafson says her company sees two kinds of couples, those wanting to relax and those craving exploration and experience. “Everyone responds to burnout in a different way. It’s about recharging with the person they love.”
A week before departure, travelers get an email with the mystery destination’s weather forecast, suggested packing items, and the starting point. Couples open the big destination reveal the day of departure at their starting point, ensuring a complete, planned surprise.
Staycation couples get all of the same suspense as those hitting the road. Since the company does all the research and planning for the perfect couple staycation ideas, you get a completely different, and surprising, travel experience without leaving your city.
“We’ve had so many couples come back from their trip and say, ‘The only other time we’ve both truly been surprised is when we found out the sex of our child.’ This is fun and totally stress-free for both people. It’s just really, really nice to hand over the control and let someone else surprise and delight them. We’re excited to be able to do that for our travelers,” says Rafson.
Another way to cut out the planning work but stay in the loop is to join a company that specializes in small group travel. Intrepid, a certified B corp committed to sustainable adventures, has added several hiking and cycling getaways that explore smaller areas more intimately.
A world away without a passport
Photo: MZStock/Shutterstock
Domestic travel can dish up destinations that rival sights around the world and now is a great time for those bucket list trips in your own country. Massive road trips, Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico are popular domestic options for that big adventure feeling.
“We saw a huge increase in independent travelers this summer,“ says Susan Swiderski, co-owner of Orca Islands Cabins glamping yurts near Seward, Alaska. Swiderski’s family-owned and run business offers couples an off-the-grid experience with wildlife, kayaking, fishing, and hiking in the temperate rainforest of the Kenai peninsula. “For many people coming here feels exotic without needing to travel internationally.”
Routine-busting adventure doesn’t have to mean a big-ticket trip. Travelers can also stay close but dig deeper with outside-of-the-box destinations. Kamau and Selena Asphall help travelers maximize their paid time off with their company, The City and Beyond, and point out that destinations not designed for tourism can be unexpectedly rewarding. With some work.
“We decided to kick off our year of part-time travel in 2018 with Concord, New Hampshire for New Year’s Eve. To this day people ask us why the heck we went there and what we did. Not everywhere is New Orleans, where, with minimal effort, you can still have a good experience.”
But the Asphalls highlight the benefits that these less touristed destinations offer as couple staycation ideas, like places to disconnect without a plane ride and enjoying attractions without the crowds.
“It’s just relocating to relax versus the mania of having to visit all these tourist attractions. Of course, there are times that you do want a trip that focuses on seeing and experiencing all that you’ve seen a town can offer,” says Selena Asphall. “Sometimes there’s a beauty of just becoming a local and figuring out on your own. As a couple, you bond on the experience you two created together as well.”
Savoring new experiences together
Photo: Rawpixel/Shutterstock
For the novelty and quality time that help keep relationships healthy, the best couple staycation ideas come down to sharing an enjoyable activity wherever a couple lands.
The ever-expanding world of culinary tourism is bringing travelers from the table to kitchen to farm. Breweries, wineries, distillers, chefs, and niche farms across the country offer behind-the-scenes tours, cooking classes, and tasting events. Eatwith offers easy searches for immersive classes and activities.
But hosted experiences don’t end with food. Several platforms work with locals to curate everything from raking sand art on a beach, taking a true crime tour, walking local rescue dogs, to making pottery. Airbnb has steadily built up offerings, but others like Withlocals also offer private, authentic experiences.
Couples are also getting out and jumping into outdoor adventure. Avoid overcrowded national parks by exploring state parks and recreational areas. While camping and glamping can have relaxing moments, this is a prime opportunity to add a few activities that add shared challenge and accomplishment. Try a climb, sailing a boat, navigating a kayak, or a geocaching treasure hunt.
Whatever you decide to do, the Asphalls say the key to both a successful trip and the relationship rewards is in “the conversation.”
“We’ve found that couples are scared to not agree all the time. You have no idea how much that conversation could benefit your relationship and maybe even tighten your bond,” says Kamau Asphall. “In relation to travel, it’s brought us to compromises that ended with both of us being so happy we didn’t shy away from discussing feelings further.” 
A therapists’s guide to sexifying your couples staycation
We know that couples who travel together reap the rewards. Traveling couples reported feeling better about their communication, romance, and quality time together in the US Travel Association’s survey than those who do not. Two-thirds said at least one key piece of their relationship was better after taking a trip together. But there is no need to follow glossy brochures to faraway destinations to get a relational boost. Intentional couples can use a few couple staycation ideas to create adventure their way.
While everyone defines adventure differently, couples report that these three things create a rewarding travel experience: taking a break from the day-to-day, being adventurous, and sharing new experiences. Fresh getaways take these concepts and add a few creative twists. By letting go of planning, creating surprises, exploring overlooked destinations, and choosing meaningful experiences, you can have a romantic adventure across the country or a short drive from home.
Getting out of the grind by letting someone else take overPhoto: Pack Up + Go
At one time, do-it-yourself trip planning made travel agents either obsolete or only considered for special occasions to many travelers. But in this decision-overload world, it’s adventurous, even a bit radical, to turn the reins over to someone else.
For something completely unexpected, the Pack Up + Go travel agency will create a surprise domestic trip, including surprise couple staycations. Travelers fill out a pre-trip survey including budget, dates, and preferences and leave the rest to the team. Founder Lillian Rafson says her company sees two kinds of couples, those wanting to relax and those craving exploration and experience. “Everyone responds to burnout in a different way. It’s about recharging with the person they love.”
A week before departure, travelers get an email with the mystery destination’s weather forecast, suggested packing items, and the starting point. Couples open the big destination reveal the day of departure at their starting point, ensuring a complete, planned surprise.
Staycation couples get all of the same suspense as those hitting the road. Since the company does all the research and planning for the perfect couple staycation ideas, you get a completely different, and surprising, travel experience without leaving your city.
“We’ve had so many couples come back from their trip and say, ‘The only other time we’ve both truly been surprised is when we found out the sex of our child.’ This is fun and totally stress-free for both people. It’s just really, really nice to hand over the control and let someone else surprise and delight them. We’re excited to be able to do that for our travelers,” says Rafson.
Another way to cut out the planning work but stay in the loop is to join a company that specializes in small group travel. Intrepid, a certified B corp committed to sustainable adventures, has added several hiking and cycling getaways that explore smaller areas more intimately.
A world away without a passportPhoto: MZStock/Shutterstock
Domestic travel can dish up destinations that rival sights around the world and now is a great time for those bucket list trips in your own country. Massive road trips, Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico are popular domestic options for that big adventure feeling.
“We saw a huge increase in independent travelers this summer,“ says Susan Swiderski, co-owner of Orca Islands Cabins glamping yurts near Seward, Alaska. Swiderski’s family-owned and run business offers couples an off-the-grid experience with wildlife, kayaking, fishing, and hiking in the temperate rainforest of the Kenai peninsula. “For many people coming here feels exotic without needing to travel internationally.”
Routine-busting adventure doesn’t have to mean a big-ticket trip. Travelers can also stay close but dig deeper with outside-of-the-box destinations. Kamau and Selena Asphall help travelers maximize their paid time off with their company, The City and Beyond, and point out that destinations not designed for tourism can be unexpectedly rewarding. With some work.
“We decided to kick off our year of part-time travel in 2018 with Concord, New Hampshire for New Year’s Eve. To this day people ask us why the heck we went there and what we did. Not everywhere is New Orleans, where, with minimal effort, you can still have a good experience.”
But the Asphalls highlight the benefits that these less touristed destinations offer as couple staycation ideas, like places to disconnect without a plane ride and enjoying attractions without the crowds.
“It’s just relocating to relax versus the mania of having to visit all these tourist attractions. Of course, there are times that you do want a trip that focuses on seeing and experiencing all that you’ve seen a town can offer,” says Selena Asphall. “Sometimes there’s a beauty of just becoming a local and figuring out on your own. As a couple, you bond on the experience you two created together as well.”
Savoring new experiences togetherPhoto: Rawpixel/Shutterstock
For the novelty and quality time that help keep relationships healthy, the best couple staycation ideas come down to sharing an enjoyable activity wherever a couple lands.
The ever-expanding world of culinary tourism is bringing travelers from the table to kitchen to farm. Breweries, wineries, distillers, chefs, and niche farms across the country offer behind-the-scenes tours, cooking classes, and tasting events. Eatwith offers easy searches for immersive classes and activities.
But hosted experiences don’t end with food. Several platforms work with locals to curate everything from raking sand art on a beach, taking a true crime tour, walking local rescue dogs, to making pottery. Airbnb has steadily built up offerings, but others like Withlocals also offer private, authentic experiences.
Couples are also getting out and jumping into outdoor adventure. Avoid overcrowded national parks by exploring state parks and recreational areas. While camping and glamping can have relaxing moments, this is a prime opportunity to add a few activities that add shared challenge and accomplishment. Try a climb, sailing a boat, navigating a kayak, or a geocaching treasure hunt.
Whatever you decide to do, the Asphalls say the key to both a successful trip and the relationship rewards is in “the conversation.”
“We’ve found that couples are scared to not agree all the time. You have no idea how much that conversation could benefit your relationship and maybe even tighten your bond,” says Kamau Asphall. “In relation to travel, it’s brought us to compromises that ended with both of us being so happy we didn’t shy away from discussing feelings further.”
October 22, 2021
The most popular Halloween candy, a volcanic eruption in Japan, and more travel news this week
Every week there is tons of travel news, so it can be easy to miss some things. No worries — Matador has you covered. Every week the Matador team rounds up the best travel deals and the most interesting travel news. This week, research has shown that chocolate is the most loved candy in the US with candy corn being the most Googled. In COVID-19 news, we have Israel, Singapore, and Thailand easing restrictions.
Photo: Google Trends
America’s favorite Halloween treatsAccording to Google, the most-searched-for candy for the Halloween season is overwhelmingly candy corn. But a survey conducted by the National Confectioners Association shows that Americans prefer chocolate (60%) to non-chocolate (40%) in their trick-or-treat pumpkins, making chocolate the most sought after Halloween candy, followed by gummy candy, while candy corn places third.
Update on Pablo Escobar’s Colombian hipposPablo Escobar created a huge problem: inviting African hippos to become an invasive species throughout the country of Colombia (colloquially known as cocaine hippos). After going back and forth about how to solve the problem, the government thinks they’ve figured it out — birth control.
Watch: Weather gone wild
阿蘇山頂着いた瞬間噴火🌋 pic.twitter.com/fNo2Ny1Ws2
— まつboy (@AW_Bull) October 20, 2021
On October 19, Japan’s Mount Aso volcano erupted, and some tourists got to watch from a viewing station. On October 16, a waterspout hit Cienfuegos Bay on the Southern coast of Cuba. Meteorologist Alvaro Pérez Senra captured the stunning water tornado on video.
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt opened to the public
Photo: Aryana Azari
Pictures from opening week of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt have surely made it into your Instagram feed, now can see it for yourself. This mirror-mad vantage point offers a unique and disorientating 360-degree view of the NYC skyline.
Thomas Jefferson statue to be removed from New York City HallThe New York City Public Design Commission unanimously voted to remove an 1833 statue of Thomas Jefferson, citing his owning slaves and his disdain for freeing them as racist. There are over 500,000 monuments in the US.
COVID-19 update for countriesThailand announced it will drop its quarantine requirements beginning November 1. Israel plans to open for vaccinated travelers beginning November 1. Singapore has opened for vaccinated travelers.
The Most Popular Halloween Candy, a Volcanic Eruption in Japan, and more Travel News This Week
Every week there is tons of travel news, so it can be easy to miss some things. No worries — Matador has you covered. Every week our Matador editors round up the best travel deals and the most interesting travel news. This week, research has shown that chocolate is the most loved candy in the US with candy corn being the most Googled. In COVID news we have Israel, Singapore and Thailand are easing restrictions.
Photo: Google Trends
America’s favorite Halloween treatsAccording to Google, the most-searched-for candy for the Halloween season is overwhelmingly candy corn. But a survey conducted by the National Confectioners Association shows that Americans prefer chocolate (60%) to non-chocolate (40%) in their trick-or-treat pumpkins, making chocolate the most sought after Halloween candy, followed by gummy candy, while candy corn places third.
Update on Pablo Escobar’s Colombian hipposPablo Escobar created a huge problem: inviting African hippos to become an invasive species throughout the country of Colombia. After going back and forth about how to solve the problem, the government thinks they’ve figured it out — birth control.
Watch Weather Gone Wild
阿蘇山頂着いた瞬間噴火🌋 pic.twitter.com/fNo2Ny1Ws2
— まつboy (@AW_Bull) October 20, 2021
On October 19, Japan’s Mount Aso volcano erupted, and some tourists got to watch from a viewing station. On October 16, a waterspout hit Cienfuegos Bay on the Southern coast of Cuba. Meteorologist Alvaro Pérez Senra captured the stunning water tornado on video.
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt opened to the publicPhoto: Aryana Azari
Pictures from opening week have surely made it into your Instagram feed, now can see it for yourself. This mirror-mad vantage point offers a unique and disorientating, 360-degree view of the NYC skyline.
Thomas Jefferson statue to be removed from New York City HallThe New York City Public Design Commission unanimously voted to remove an 1833 statue of Thomas Jefferson, citing his owning slaves and his disdain for freeing them as racist. There are over 500,000 monuments in the US.
COVID-19 update for countriesThailand announced it will drop its quarantine requirements beginning November 1.
Israel plans to open for vaccinated travelers beginning November 1.
Singapore has opened for vaccinated travelers.
This is the perfect art weekend in Los Angeles – but you need to do it soon
After over a year of museum closures, the Los Angeles art scene is back and exhibits, from first-timers to modern takes on classics, are on display all over the area. Many will close in early 2022 so, whether you live in Southern California or are traveling to the state to catch some rays; here is your guide to the perfect art weekend in Los Angeles including where to eat between museums and galleries.
(Note that many museums require advanced booking and all are subject to local COVID-19 rules.)
Friday
Photo: BOULENGER Xavier/Shutterstock
The perfect art weekend in Los Angeles starts with the outpost of the Immersive Van Gogh Experience that’s on view through January 2, 2022 on Sunset Boulevard. The goal of the exhibit is to immerse the viewer into the variety of the famous artist’s works. The main attraction is an oversized space where graphic interpretations of hundreds of Van Gogh paintings are projected from floor to ceiling and set to music. Imagine being surrounded by sunflowers and stars. There is a snack bar for fueling up before entering and an AI tool that invites visitors to write a letter to the recipient of their choosing who will receive a personalized letter in return. The price is not cheap, with tickets starting at $39.99 (plus fees).
Where: 6400 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, USA
Just a block from the Van Gogh experience is a mini slice of Manhattan on the corner of Selma Avenue and Cahuenga Boulevard, where Tao, Beauty and Essex, and The Highlight Room are all found in one spot. Tao is famous for fancy pan Asian cuisine in an ornate setting; Beauty and Essex for creative small plates; and the Highlight Ballroom for the hotel rooftop vibes with classic California cuisine (try to make it there for sunset).
Where:
– Tao, 6421 Selma Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028, USA
– Beauty and Essex, 1615 Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, USA
– The Highlight Room, 6417 Selma Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028, USA
Photo: The Huntington Library/Facebook
Get up early and make your way to the Huntington Gardens, a 130-acre space that is home to 16 stunning themed gardens and an art museum housed in the former Huntington home. The Huntington’s Thornton Portrait Gallery houses the iconic and recently restored “The Blue Boy” and — through January 3, 2022 — Kehinde Wiley’s “A Portrait of a Young Gentleman”. Wiley’s work is a large-scale portrait that sits in striking contrast and complement to The Huntington’s permanent collection.
Where: 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108, USA
From the gardens, make your way into Pasadena, which is the birthplace of the cheeseburger, so make sure to try one of the originals at Pie ‘N Burger. If you would like something more fancy to go with your art day, try afternoon tea at the iconic hotel Langham Pasadena. The hotel is the location where the Huntingtons sent their guests and many of the original buildings remain.
Where:
– Pie ‘N Burger, 913 E. California Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91106, USA
– Langham Pasadena, 1401 S Oak Knoll Ave, Pasadena, CA 91106, USA
Belly full, drive to Downtown LA where Lorna Simpson’s first exhibition at Hauser & Wirth Los Angeles — “Everrrything” — will be on view through January 9, 2022. The exhibit spans the north galleries and the open-air courtyard of the gallery’s Downtown Arts District complex. Also, at Gallery 1242, is Nelson Makamo’s first solo US exhibit, “Blue”, which features 44 of his works, the most extensive collection he has ever showcased. The Makamo exhibit can be seen on appointment only and is on view through November 20, 2021.
Where:
– Hauser & Wirth Los Angeles, 901 E 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
– Gallery 1242, 1242 Palmetto St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
It’s standing room only at the locally loved Sonoratown on eighth street. Go for the mini burritos, and if you are staying local, leave with a few dozen fresh tortillas. If at this point you need more of a sit-down dinner, Cha Cha Cha brings one of Mexico City’s top eateries to the heart of L.A.
Where:
– Sonoratown, 208 E 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014, USA
– Cha Cha Cha, 812 E. 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
Sleep in and head to The Original Farmers Market for a brunch of crepes, empanadas, donuts, and coffee; anything you are craving will probably be available here.
Where: 6333 W. 3rd St., Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA
Photo: The Academy Museum/Facebook
Just a few blocks away is the newly opened and much anticipated Academy Museum. Yes, somehow, L.A only now has a museum dedicated to movies. On this trip, you are headed to the Hayao Miyazaki exhibit, which is the first North American museum retrospective dedicated to the work of the artist and filmmaker. Hayao Miyazaki features more than 300 objects, including original imageboards, character designs, storyboards, layouts, backgrounds, posters, and cels. Walking through the exhibit is much like one of the dreams his films create, and his fans will be blown away.
Where: 6067 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA
Photo: LACMA/Facebook
If somehow you are not over art at this point, grab a coffee from the museum restaurant and walk a few steps to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art to the Yoshitomo Nara exhibit. Covering over 30 years of the artist’s work, the show is on view through January 2nd. The main highlight is Miss Forest, a 26-foot outdoor painted bronze sculpture that will grace Wilshire Boulevard.
Where: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA
Now you have covered the highlights, reward yourself and head back up Fairfax to Jon and Vinny’s for some Sunday Bolognese.
Where: 412 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA
Good climate news this week.
This is The Climate Win, the most positive sustainability news around the world every week.
As David Attenborough tells us, a critical part of addressing climate change is not just slashing carbon emissions, but also rewilding the planet. The UN has also stated that protecting biodiversity is essential to protecting our planet. In this week’s Climate Win, we look at some good news in the plant and animal worlds.
Elephant baby boom in Kenya
Photo: Johan Marais/Shutterstock
A few months after releasing the country’s first wildlife census, Kenya just celebrated an elephant “adoption” and elephant naming ceremony in its Amboseli National Park. Amboseli park, which has Mount Kilimanjaro as its stunning backdrop, is home to Kenya’s largest concentration of elephants and, in 2020, saw a record number of baby elephants born. A silver lining of the covid pandemic was a drastic reduction in poaching. Combined with better protections for elephants, the result was over 200 new baby elephants.
In fact, a recent wildlife census conducted by the Kenyan government saw a 12 percent increase in the elephant population. The African Wildlife Foundation (AFW) attributes the success to a three-pronged anti-poaching approach centered on on stopping the killing, the trafficking, and the demand for elephant tusks. Elephants are vital to their ecosystem, spreading seeds long distances and maintaining biodiversity in the savannah.
The AFW was one of the first participants to symbolically “adopt” an elephant for $5000. The AFW named their elephant “Namayiana,” a Masai word meaning “blessings ahead.” You can also name an elephant yourself for “just” a $2500 donation to the Amboseli Elephant Trust.
Wildlife superhighways
Photo: Mark Caunt/Shutterstock
Rewilding means not just protecting animals’ natural habitats, but also giving them space to migrate. Recognizing this, communities around the world have begun to knit together natural areas that were dissected by development. From penguin tunnels to crab bridges, this has resulted in some of the coolest wildlife crossings in the world.
Just two weeks ago, California’s transportation authority, Caltrans, announced it will soon break ground on the long-planned Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing over Southern California’s
101 Freeway. The 200-foot-long, 165-foot-wide wildlife bridge across eight lanes of traffic is expected to be the largest of its kind, helping to protect threatened mountain lion populations in the Santa Monica Mountains.
While the SoCal bridge will be a wildlife crossing over a superhighway, a rewilding project in Scotland intends to be the superhighway. The Woodland Trust this week called for donations to raise £8 million ($11 million) to buy the 4,500-acre Couldoran Estate adjacent to land it already owns in the Scottish Highlands. The Woodland Trust plans to plant trees across the area, the first step in creating a vast “wildlife superhighway.” A restored tree canopy will help red squirrels — along with various bird species, pine martens, voles, badgers, and mountain hares — to thrive again.
China launches its national park system
Photo: clkraus/Shutterstock
This week China announced the first five parks of a vast new national park system. As Matador reported last year, China has thousands of natural reserves but has opted to bring them under a larger national umbrella to ensure they are properly managed. At a “biodiversity summit” in the country, China said the parks will cover a total of 88,800 square miles and be focused on preserving animals that are native to China.
One of those species is the Giant Pandas, which China recently announced were no longer endangered, albeit still vulnerable. Giant Panda National Park will be huge, spanning three provinces — Sichuan, Shaanxi and Gansu — and several mountain ranges. More than 75 percent of the wild population of pandas lives here. National parks in northeast China, meanwhile, will focus on the preservation of the Siberian Tiger and Siberian leopard.
The most perfect backpack for every type of travelers, from hostelers to hikers
“Backpacker” is a nebulous term. It can describe hostel-hopping budget travelers or multi-day hikers who sleep deep in the wilderness. Both carry their belongings on their backs, but the stuff they bring, the places they go, and the plans they make wildly differ. So should their packs. Whether you’re planning a Eurotrip or prepping for the Pacific Crest Trail, these are the best backpacker backpacks for every type of traveler.
We hope you love the backpacker backpacks we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to purchase. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.
The best backcountry packThe best travel backpackThe best thru-hiking packThe best weekender backpackThe best budget packThe best backpack for business travelersThe best duffel backpackThe best backcountry pack: Osprey Atmos AG 65L and Aura AG 65L
Photo: REI
Osprey makes several of the best-selling wilderness packs on the market. Our recommendations for the average backpacker are the men’s Atmos AG 65L or women’s Aura AG 65L, which share an anti-gravity suspension system that makes hauls of up to 40 pounds feel surprisingly weightless. While you may prefer Osprey’s Aether and Ariel models for heavy loads, the Atmos and Aura are ideal for weeklong backpacking trips.
Price: $270.00
The best travel backpack: Tortuga Setout 45L Backpack
Photo: Tortuga
Tortuga’s easy-to-organize Setout zips open like a suitcase but comes with padded shoulder straps and a hefty hip belt like a hiking pack. Best for urban backpackers, the sleek yet understated Setout comes in two sizes: 35L, the carry-on limit for most international flights, and 45L, the maximum size for most domestic flights. According to reviewers, even the 35L is plenty spacious for trips as long as two months.
Price: $199.00
The best thru-hiking pack: ULA Circuit
Photo: ULA
ULA’s ultra lightweight Circuit has been the pack of choice for Pacific Crest Trail thru-hikers three years in a row. Weighing just over two pounds, it can handle 68 liters and up to 30 pounds of gear, although optimal comfort maxes out around 15 to 25 pounds. The Circuit is also hyper durable, making it fit for any conditions and all four seasons.
Price: $279.99
The best weekender backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
Photo: REI
The Allpa is another great travel backpack with a suitcase-style zipper. It’s sportier than the Setout, which unlike the Allpa is not fully waterproof, although the Setout has a sturdier hip belt and shoulder straps for longer hauls. Depending on your packing style, the 35L may be generous for the average two-day trip, but the Cotopaxi also makes a 42L and 28L. Tough enough for rugged terrain yet stylish enough to parade down the street, the Allpa is the perfect go anything weekender, no matter where the weekend takes you.
Price: $200.00
The best budget pack: Kelty Redwing
Photo: Kelty
Quality adventure packs are expensive, averaging anywhere from $150 to $350. Kelty sells versatile, reliable backpacks for half or even a third of the cost of competing brands. The Redwing is among the most popular models, with a unisex design and space for all sorts of gear. It comes in various sizes, ranging from 22L to 50L.
Price: $149.95
The best backpack for business travelers: Nomatic 40L Travel Bag
Photo: Nomatic
The Nomatic 40L Travel Bag was designed with laptop-carrying travelers in mind. It comes with a TSA-ready laptop sleeve, RFID safe pocket, and dedicated compartments for keeping your tech organized. There’s even a built-in laundry bag to help keep business travelers looking their best. The Nomatic 40L is also great for digital nomads who pack on the lighter side.
Price: $279.99
The best duffel backpack: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag
Photo: REI
Duffels are divisive. Sure, they’re roomy, they’re durable, they keep your stuff accessible, and they’re forgiving of bulky gear or equipment. But add on some shoulder straps, and the appeal of the duffel becomes one of the infinitely greater backpacker backpacks. Patagonia makes one of our favorites: the Black Hole. As the name suggests, it’s particularly great for chronic overpackers, especially the 55L.
Price: $139.00
More like thisBackpackingThe ultimate summer backpacking gear guide for newbiesThis gigantic resort shaped like the Moon is the next best thing to space travel
If, like most people on this planet, you can’t fork out $250,000 to take a 90-minute rocket ship to space, the next best thing is to stay at this mind-boggling resort shaped like the Moon.
Photo: Moon World resorts
A project by Michael R. Henderson and Sandra G. Matthews, the MOON resort will be located inside the world’s largest sphere (650 feet in diameter and 735 feet in height). But it’s not all about the looks. Yes, the plan is for the resort to be shaped like the Moon and resemble it from the outside, but inside it’s also all about giving visitors an out-of-this-world experience without having to actually travel to space.
Renderings of the artium and the wellness center. Photo: Moon World resorts
Renderings of one of the hotel suites and the nightclub. Photo: Moon World resorts
The 6.4 million square feet of resort will include just about everything you can think of, including:
4,000 five-star hotel suites with no windowsAn alien spaceship-themed nightclubA wellness centerBallroomsAn event center that can host up to 5,000 peopleA convention centerRestaurantsBoutiquesAn aquatic center
Rendering of the lunar surface attraction. Photo: Moon World resorts
But the icing on the cake for this superlative, multi-billion dollar resort project is the lunar colony. A replica of the Moon’s surface will be available for guests to walk on so they can experience what it’s like being on the Moon — kinda.
Of course, there’ll a shuttle system that will spiral around the hotel to get you to the lunar surface (located on the top floor), because just taking an elevator to the Moon just won’t pass muster.
The currently plan is to have four Moon resorts across the world, with talks of one possibly being built in Las Vegas and another one in Dubai. Because where else can a gigantic luxury resort shaped like the Moon not look incongruous?
Photo: Marca Studio/Vimeo
There’s currently no date for the construction, let alone the opening, of one of these MOON resorts, but you can take your passion for the Moon elsewhere. For example, go check out this amazing replica of the Moon, a touring artwork installation by UK-based artist Luke Jerram. Or just sit by the fire with a copy of TinTin’s Destination Moon. We guarantee you’ll be transported.
Matador editor’s favorite fashionable outdoor gear of the season
There’s ideal clothing for the outdoors and there’s the attire that you’d wear anywhere else. It doesn’t have to be this way. You can own outdoor items so hip and stylish that you’d happily, even eagerly, wear them in the big city. Here is the outdoor gear to gift yourself or a loved one who also cares about looking good.
1. On Running
Photo: REI
The Swiss-made hiking and running shoes aren’t just all over mountain paths these days; you’ll find them equally on the streets of New York. In addition to coming in pleasing hues that will match with everything in your wardrobe for running, or running errands, they are feather light. They will, however, also lighten your wallet, as these highly specialized shoes — with designs for not just different activities but for diverse temperatures and distances — start at $130.
Price: From $130
2. Outerknown Blanket Shirt
Photo: Outerknown
Kelly Slater, the most decorated surfer of all time, also has a sustainable brand of outdoor wear. We’re talking Fair Trade Certified board shorts, sweaters made with 95 percent recycled cashmere, fishing nets turned into fibers, and ocean plastic turned into board shorts and buttons. The most casually chic Outerknown items are their flannel Blanket Shirts, perfect to warm up after a morning surf or to layer under a ski parka — allowing a seamless transition to a weekend brunch or an après afternoon. The Blanket Shirts come in a dizzying combination of colors for men and women, all at $148 for both men and women. Or check their extra sustainable pre-owned options for some nice deals.
Price: $148
3. Smartwool Hiking Skirt
Photo: REI
Nothing makes a statement on a summer trail like a hiking skirt. It says you are both prepared for the mountains and ready to look good. And Smartwool, already a brand known for high-quality wear, makes a hiking skirt that is a lot sassier that some of the dowdier items out there. It’s got a fun, A-line cut in a mini-skirt with built-in boyshorts underneath.
Price: $53.00
4. Lululemon everywhere belt bag
Photo: Herschel
Lululemon may well have been that brand that made leggings the all-day clothing that they’ve become. Now, the stylish yoga and running-wear brand is not breaking any ground with its belt bags — seeing as these have been repurposed from their 1980s days as ski “fanny packs” — but these Everywhere Belt Bags will definitely be a welcome present for a trendy friend. Coming in irresistible colors like Eton blue, golden apricot, or ripened raspberry, these $38 bags have clean lines, a wide belt, and just enough space for your phone, keys, cash, and sunscreen.
Price: $38.00
5. Arcteryx Hoodie
Photo: REI
Arcteryx items are seriously warm and ridiculously durable, both explaining and justifying the price tag. The RHO LT Hoody is the perfect base layer for a fall hike, a day on the slopes, or even a springtime backpacking trip. It’s light, ultra-soft, moisture-wicking, and very versatile, as the neckline can be a hoodie out by the campfire, a balaclava on the slopes, or a casual cowl neck at the après ski table.
Price: $135.00
6. Herschel Coolers
Photo: Herschel
You may not associate the trendy urban brand with the outdoors, but Herschel is very much a brand for a life lived outside, even if that’s more Central Park than national park. They make plenty of items to ensure you stay stylish outside — from backpacks to cozy toques. Now they’ve added insulated coolers to the list. They come in seven colors and in sizes that fit six, 12, or 30 cans — so you can be the refreshment-ready hero at the next camping trip.
Price: $89.99
7. Buff neck gaiter
Photo: Buff/REI
Buff is the company that gave us this simply stylish accessory that is better known as a “buff” than a “neck gaiter.” Acting as protection against sun, wind, or even insects, buffs proved to be a lot more useful than anyone had anticipated — and that was before they turned out to double as an impromptu mask on a crowded hiking trail. And, best of all, they turn a hiking or ski outfit into something more sauve or sassy, depending on the pattern and how it’s worn. And coming in at under $20, you can give one to everyone who wants to personalize their outdoor look.
Price: $20.00
8. Patagonia Blackhole Backpacks
Photo: REI
Sustainable is always fashionable. As such, Patagonia has always been one of the coolest outdoor brands out there. But it’s not just because of their path-breaking commitment to the planet, but because of their innovative and hip designs. Their Blackhole Backpacks, in 25 or 32 liter sizes, are a great example, made with recycled materials and coming in the grooviest color combinations.
Price: $149.00
9. Vikram atomizers
Photo: Vikram
The perfect stocking stuffer helps to travel with all the essential toiletries in good-looking, reusable, and lightweight bottles. These Vikram atomizers are perfect for essential oils, hairspray, saline, and other liquids. Go ahead and use them for perfume on a ski trip, but skip the scents on a backpacking excursion. They come in an array of bright colors and have a clear window to see if it’s time for a refill. A pack of six costs $12.99.
Price: $12.99
10. Maui Jim’s sunglasses
Photo: REI
Maui Jim’s are made for people who spend a lot of time by the water — whether sailing, fishing, or preparing to surf. Their UVA, UVB, and UVC protection guard against harmful rays not just from the sun, but also the extra blast that comes with rays reflecting off the water. They’re also polarized for maximum visibility in variable light conditions. Put all that together in a flattering aviator style lens, and you’ve got the perfect pair of shades.
Price: From $170
11. Raw elements
Photo: REI
Looking good means taking care of your skin as much as your style. And Raw Elements lets you do that in a way that also takes care of the planet. Their sunscreens aren’t just made with all natural ingredients, but they are also packed with antioxidants and vitamins that actively nourish your skin while providing the full-spectrum sun protection you want.
Price: From $18.95
12. Suunto watches
Photo: SUUNT
If you want to give your bestie one of the best sports watches in the world without emptying your bank account, look no further than Finnish watchmaker Suunto. If you ski in Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, you’ll recognize Suunto clocks at all of the ski lift cabins — a testament to the watches’ mountain-worthiness. Suunto watches are precise and extremely durable (they’re made to withstand Finnish winters, after all). As important to your style-conscious loved one, they’re sleek and substantial, with a distinctively large watch face. While the Suunto 9 comes with 80 sports settings and GPS tracking that lasts nine hours, it’s also over $500. No matter. The Suunto Core watch, with an altimeter, barometer, and compass, is waterproof like all Suunto watches, and comes in at only $136.
Price: From $136.00
More like thisTechnology + GearThe 8 coolest vegan boots and sneakers for travelersOutdoor gear for the fashionista in your life
There’s ideal clothing for the outdoors and there’s the attire that you’d wear anywhere else. It doesn’t have to be this way. You can own outdoor items so hip and stylish that you’d happily, even eagerly, wear them in the big city. Here is the outdoor gear to gift yourself or a loved one who also cares about looking good.
1. On RunningPhoto: REI
The Swiss-made hiking and running shoes aren’t just all over mountain paths these days; you’ll find them equally on the streets of New York. In addition to coming in pleasing hues that will match with everything in your wardrobe for running, or running errands, they are feather light. They will, however, also lighten your wallet, as these highly specialized shoes — with designs for not just different activities but for diverse temperatures and distances — start at $130.
Price: From $130
2. Outerknown Blanket ShirtPhoto: Outerknown
Kelly Slater, the most decorated surfer of all time, also has a sustainable brand of outdoor wear. We’re talking Fair Trade Certified board shorts, sweaters made with 95 percent recycled cashmere, fishing nets turned into fibers, and ocean plastic turned into board shorts and buttons. The most casually chic Outerknown items are their flannel Blanket Shirts, perfect to warm up after a morning surf or to layer under a ski parka — allowing a seamless transition to a weekend brunch or an après afternoon. The Blanket Shirts come in a dizzying combination of colors for men and women, all at $148 for both men and women. Or check their extra sustainable pre-owned options for some nice deals.
Price: $148
3. Smartwool Hiking SkirtPhoto: REI
Nothing makes a statement on a summer trail like a hiking skirt. It says you are both prepared for the mountains and ready to look good. And Smartwool, already a brand known for high-quality wear, makes a hiking skirt that is a lot sassier that some of the dowdier items out there. It’s got a fun, A-line cut in a mini-skirt with built-in boyshorts underneath.
Price: $53.00
4. Lululemon everywhere belt bagPhoto: Herschel
Lululemon may well have been that brand that made leggings the all-day clothing that they’ve become. Now, the stylish yoga and running-wear brand is not breaking any ground with its belt bags — seeing as these have been repurposed from their 1980s days as ski “fanny packs” — but these Everywhere Belt Bags will definitely be a welcome present for a trendy friend. Coming in irresistible colors like Eton blue, golden apricot, or ripened raspberry, these $38 bags have clean lines, a wide belt, and just enough space for your phone, keys, cash, and sunscreen.
Price: $38.00
5. Arcteryx HoodiePhoto: REI
Arcteryx items are seriously warm and ridiculously durable, both explaining and justifying the price tag. The RHO LT Hoody is the perfect base layer for a fall hike, a day on the slopes, or even a springtime backpacking trip. It’s light, ultra-soft, moisture-wicking, and very versatile, as the neckline can be a hoodie out by the campfire, a balaclava on the slopes, or a casual cowl neck at the après ski table.
Price: $135.00
6. Herschel CoolersPhoto: Herschel
You may not associate the trendy urban brand with the outdoors, but Herschel is very much a brand for a life lived outside, even if that’s more Central Park than national park. They make plenty of items to ensure you stay stylish outside — from backpacks to cozy toques. Now they’ve added insulated coolers to the list. They come in seven colors and in sizes that fit six, 12, or 30 cans — so you can be the refreshment-ready hero at the next camping trip.
Price: $89.99
7. Buff neck gaiterPhoto: Buff/REI
Buff is the company that gave us this simply stylish accessory that is better known as a “buff” than a “neck gaiter.” Acting as protection against sun, wind, or even insects, buffs proved to be a lot more useful than anyone had anticipated — and that was before they turned out to double as an impromptu mask on a crowded hiking trail. And, best of all, they turn a hiking or ski outfit into something more sauve or sassy, depending on the pattern and how it’s worn. And coming in at under $20, you can give one to everyone who wants to personalize their outdoor look.
Price: $20.00
8. Patagonia Blackhole BackpacksPhoto: REI
Sustainable is always fashionable. As such, Patagonia has always been one of the coolest outdoor brands out there. But it’s not just because of their path-breaking commitment to the planet, but because of their innovative and hip designs. Their Blackhole Backpacks, in 25 or 32 liter sizes, are a great example, made with recycled materials and coming in the grooviest color combinations.
Price: $149.00
9. Vikram atomizersPhoto: Vikram
The perfect stocking stuffer helps to travel with all the essential toiletries in good-looking, reusable, and lightweight bottles. These Vikram atomizers are perfect for essential oils, hairspray, saline, and other liquids. Go ahead and use them for perfume on a ski trip, but skip the scents on a backpacking excursion. They come in an array of bright colors and have a clear window to see if it’s time for a refill. A pack of six costs $12.99.
Price: $12.99
10. Maui Jim’s sunglassesPhoto: REI
Maui Jim’s are made for people who spend a lot of time by the water — whether sailing, fishing, or preparing to surf. Their UVA, UVB, and UVC protection guard against harmful rays not just from the sun, but also the extra blast that comes with rays reflecting off the water. They’re also polarized for maximum visibility in variable light conditions. Put all that together in a flattering aviator style lens, and you’ve got the perfect pair of shades.
Price: From $170
11. Raw elementsPhoto: REI
Looking good means taking care of your skin as much as your style. And Raw Elements lets you do that in a way that also takes care of the planet. Their sunscreens aren’t just made with all natural ingredients, but they are also packed with antioxidants and vitamins that actively nourish your skin while providing the full-spectrum sun protection you want.
Price: From $18.95
12. Suunto watchesPhoto: SUUNT
If you want to give your bestie one of the best sports watches in the world without emptying your bank account, look no further than Finnish watchmaker Suunto. If you ski in Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, you’ll recognize Suunto clocks at all of the ski lift cabins — a testament to the watches’ mountain-worthiness. Suunto watches are precise and extremely durable (they’re made to withstand Finnish winters, after all). As important to your style-conscious loved one, they’re sleek and substantial, with a distinctively large watch face. While the Suunto 9 comes with 80 sports settings and GPS tracking that lasts nine hours, it’s also over $500. No matter. The Suunto Core watch, with an altimeter, barometer, and compass, is waterproof like all Suunto watches, and comes in at only $136.
Price: From $136.00
More like thisTechnology + GearThe 8 coolest vegan boots and sneakers for travelersMatador Network's Blog
- Matador Network's profile
- 6 followers
