Matador Network's Blog, page 571
September 30, 2021
This small travel gear on Amazon Prime keeps our editors moving on the road
Packing correctly for travel takes practice and repetition. The most experienced travelers know to leave the must-have travel items in their travel pack so there’s no chance they will be forgotten. Matador’s Travel and Outdoor editors are among those believers — in fact, each has spent years honing his or her travel setup to be optimized for the type of travel and activities they most frequently embark on, whether that be a yoga retreat or tour of Paris museums. Here are those small travel items, each of which can fit in your travel pack without hogging all the room you need for clothes, laptop, and other must-haves. Every item on this list is available via Amazon Prime. So go ahead — trip out your travel pack and own the road on your next adventure.
We hope you love the small travel items we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.
trtl Pillow for neck support
Photo: trtl
Whether you’re on a long-haul flight, a bumpy car or bus ride, or simply relaxing after a long day of sightseeing, this trtl Pillow is the perfect way to help unwind your head, neck, and upper spine. This pillow looks like a scarf and sleeps like a pillow. It also packs easily and can even be strapped to the outside of your pack if you’re short of space on the inside. Throw it in the wash when you return from a trip and then right back into your bag. Finally, those worries about whether or not your accommodations have good pillows are over.
Price: $29.99
Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes
Photo: Wet Ones
A necessity on the road even before 2020, Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes are the easiest way to keep your hands clean and sanitized no matter where you are. Carry-on ready, the individual boxes in this six-pack are perfect for refreshing your surroundings on a plane, at a restaurant, or when using a public restroom.
Price:$17.88
World Travel Adapter Kit by Septics
Photo: Septics
Though you may not be traveling abroad nearly as much right now, be prepared for when you get back out there by keeping a universal charger in your bag permanently. This one from Ceptics has two USB plugs and two grounded plugs. That’s more than enough for an iPhone, computer, and the charger for whatever camera you use. Even when traveling in North America, though, it’s handy to have on hand to keep all of your plugs in one place if there aren’t a whole lot of outlets where you’re staying.
Price: $25.48
Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket
Photo: REI
Having a packable blanket with you when traveling is a lifesaver whether you’re on an outdoorsy trip or plan to spend your time in cities. This Rumpl throw blanket can be used to keep warm on the plane, to sit on at the park, or wrapped around you when camping on a warm summer evening. As far as easy comfort goes, there’s nothing better.
Price: $39.99
SUUNTO MC-2 Mirror Compass
Photo: Suunto
Every outdoorsy person should have a compass. This one from SUUNTO doubles as an inclinometer, which helps you gauge slope steepness in the mountains. This is beneficial when summitting peaks or ascending steep slopes year-round, and is absolutely essential in the winter to assist in determining avalanche risk while mountaineering or backcountry skiing and snowboarding. Along with other backcountry ski gear, this compass and inclinometer could be instrumental (pun intended) in saving your life.
Price: $52.50
Cameron’s Coffee Single Serve Pods
Photo: Cameron’s Coffee
Checking into a hotel, lodge, or Airbnb, only to find it only offers disposable Keurig K-cups for your morning joe fix is so discouraging. K-Cups are absolutely horrible for the planet, but these single-use Cameron’s Coffee Single Serve Pods are the perfect alternative for travelers. The pods are biodegradable and the coffee is just as good — maybe even better, depending on what your host provides. Keep a few in your bag or bring the whole box if you plan to travel for a while.
Price: $29.65 for 36-count pack
RX Bars
Photo: RX Bars
A quick burst of energy is often essential when embarking on a long day’s excursion in the wilderness. Keeping a few RX Bars in your pack at all times is a great way to ensure you always have something with you to stave off encroaching hunger and help you power through that last mile. RX Bars are built from ingredients optimized for exerting energy, like egg whites, nuts, and dates, and are free of the added sugars that many energy bars mix in. These RX Bar minis are even more convenient, as you can better control your portion size and keep a wider variety of flavors in your pack (because we all get sick of the peanut butter + chocolate combo after while, right?)
Price: $38.02 for a 30-count box
Welly travel first aid kit
Photo: Welly
The Welly travel first aid kit is perfect for flying and road trips. Keep it in your pack or vehicle and always have light medical supplies on hand when you need them. Included are bandages in multiple sizes, adhesive tape, gauze, prep pads, butterfly strips, antibiotic and hydrocortisone packets, and ibuprofen pills. This kit is particularly useful when traveling with kids or a group of people. If any arrive underprepared but succumb to a light pricking during a day of sightseeing, you’ve got them covered.
Price: $8.99
Sun Bum Premium Day Tripper Sun Care Travel Pack
Photo: Sun Bum
Sunscreen is essential no matter where you travel. This Sun Bum Day Tripper kit has you covered from head to toe, including lip balm, and comes with a hydrating cool down lotion to apply after a long day in the sun. All are reef safe, so whether you’re headed to the beach or a mountain lake you can rest easy knowing that you aren’t damaging the habitats in which you play.
Price: $19.99
Sawyer Products SP 134 TAP Water Filtration System
Photo: Sawyer
Gone are the days of needing to buy plastic water bottles when traveling in places without drinkable tap water. The Sawyer Products SP 134 TAP Water Filtration System connects to taps and filters the water into your water bottle, so you can have a zero-waste water source while traveling. The filter is small and portable, and is designed for travel. It can filter up to 500 gallons per day and is reusable. And, it connects to things like hoses and other Sawyer products giving you an extra dose of versatility.
Price: $36.49
Kleen Kanteen Classic Stainless Steel Water Bottle
Photo: Kleen Kanteen
Of course, you need a water bottle to filter that water into. Kleen Kanteen’s classic filtered bottle does the trick, and fits comfortably into the drink pouch on most travel backpacks. The lid is secure and leakproof and can be fasted via carabiner to your pack if you decide to throw it in the trunk or want to make sure you don’t leave the bottle behind in the hotel room. And, it keeps your water nice and cool for up to 50 hours and keeps hot drinks hot for up to 20 hours.
Price: $24.25-$53.49, depending on size
Bearz Outdoor Quick Dry Travel Towel
Photo: Bearz Outdoor
You can count on a towel being provided for you if you’re staying at a hotel, but outside of that, the presence of a towel can be a bit of a toss-up. If staying in a budget Airbnb, camping, or doing anything where you may want to jump into a body of water, it’s nice to have a microfiber towel on hand, and this Bearz Outdoor Quick Dry Towel does the trick. These don’t take up too much space but still get you dry. They also double as something to sit on — just remember that microfiber is clingy so you’ll have to spend some time getting the grass or dirt off if you put it on the ground. 
Price: $15.49
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Get ready to “WOW” your travel partners with these epic Iceland Airbnbs
What do you want in an Iceland Airbnb? We have a few ideas. The best Airbnbs in Iceland offer front row seats to the northern lights and easy access to the outdoor adventures this Nordic country is known for. The best Iceland Airbnbs even offer extras — like hot tubs, fireplaces, maybe even a chance to greet a gaggle of wild horses as they traverse their way across the countryside. “Wow” your travel partners with these epic Iceland Airbnbs.
We hope you love the Iceland Airbnb properties 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.
Glass cottage with hot tub under the northern lights
Photo: Airbnb
This glass cottage Airbnb is exactly what you came to Iceland for. Gaze up at the sky as the northern lights pass overhead, swirling colors that reflect in infinite beauty off this glass-encased home. Although this spot is just southeast of Reykjavik, you’ll feel as though you’re on another planet. Enjoy the private hot tub and the charm of being “out there” with the opportunity in the nearby town of Hella for swimming, sauna, waterslides, and services. And if you plan to visit Landmannalaugar while in Iceland, this is the prime basecamp to start and end your journey.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $594 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Soaking in a natural hot spring after a day of adventure is something nearly all travelers enjoy, and even pursue. But relaxation is a lot less soothing when there are half a dozen other people in a tiny hot spring pool with you. This luxurious lodge solves that problem. You’ll have your own private hot spring in which to chill as the northern lights (hopefully) pass overhead. And the lodge itself is noteworthy, too — a well-furnished artist’s haven with a private deck and lake views. The lodge is part of the gated Hvammsvik Estate, among the most desirable places to stay in all of Iceland.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $748 per night
Photo: Airbnb
There’s something so romantic about staying in a geodesic dome with a fireplace — even if you’re on a solo excursion. Add in the hot tub and you have one of the most relaxing and intriguing Airbnbs in Iceland. On the outskirts of Reykjavik, you’re both close to the amenities of the city and perfectly removed from its vibrations. The water is right here, and should you feel up for a foot-powered natural excursion, as much as you can handle is right outside your door.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $518 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Track lighting has never before held such an important role in an Iceland Airbnb. The living room and bedroom walls in this high-end downtown Reykjavik Airbnb apartment are lined with art. Said art is illuminated by the track lights, turning your stay into a private art show in the heart of the city. The property is accessed via elevator from street level and offers views out over downtown. You’ll have access to two private parking spots underneath the building, should you need them, but this place is so close to the city’s dining and nightlife that walking is the best way to get around.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $819 per night
Photo: Airbnb
What do you think of when you think of Iceland? Beyond the Blue Lagoon, a few things likely come to mind: mountains, glaciers, rivers, and the ocean. Oh, and horses, too. You’ll have a front-row seat to all of the above at this high-heeled but remote Airbnb near Iceland’s southern coast. Within a quick drive are multiple national parks, waterfalls, and other bodies of water. With so much to see, there’s no better place to plant yourself for an all-encompassing Iceland tour.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $124 per night
Photo: Airbnb
It’s hard to say you’ve seen Iceland until you’ve experienced its water caves and lava fields. From this gorgeous home at the foot of one of Iceland’s most stunning hills, you can kayak pristine waters and easily access many of the country’s iconic natural highlights. Out on the peninsula near the famed Snæfellsjökull National Park, this is the best Airbnb in Iceland for exploring the western coast. You could spend a lifetime exploring the jagged coastline here, and we wouldn’t blame you if you never returned home.
Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $252 per night
Photo: Airbnb
No Airbnb in Iceland better captures the country’s rugged remoteness than this magical stay. Two tiny houses with private porches and epically expansive views sit near the base of the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. The northern lights regularly dance above the home, and you can watch in comfort as the property is modern, warm, and trimmed to accommodate. This is the perfect romantic couples’ retreat, where you can dine by candlelight while keeping an eye out for horses passing by out front.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $275 per night
The post Get ready to “WOW” your travel partners with these epic Iceland Airbnbs appeared first on Matador Network.
The best new services for planning a more sustainable trip in 2022
Next month, top delegates from around the world will convene in Glasgow, Scotland for the annual UN Climate Change Conference, also known as COP26, to discuss what actions can be taken at the government and policy level to prevent the worst impacts of climate change. While we certainly hope for a positive outcome, it can feel frustrating waiting for these older (mostly male, mostly white) so-and-sos to make the decisions that will impact so many lives. Luckily, a lot can be done at the individual level to empower us toward a greener future, and that includes evolving our approach to travel. As the world waited in lockdown, dreaming of once again exploring distant shores, innovations in the travel industry emerged to make planning sustainable travel much more accessible.
We spoke to today’s leading experts in eco and ethical travel to learn which new tools and resources they’ll be using to plan their trips in 2022, here are some of their tips.
Defining sustainable travelThe best resources for choosing a sustainable destinationSites for sourcing more sustainable transportationThe best online tools for vetting sustainable hotelsThe best apps for booking local tours and experiencesHow to book more sustainable restaurants on the roadDefining sustainable travelBefore diving in, it’s important to understand a more holistic definition of sustainable travel. “Mainstream media tends to focus on the environmental components of sustainability, but a holistic definition also encompasses social and economic benefits,” explains Kelley Louise, Founder and Executive Director of Impact Travel Alliance, a non-profit committed to helping people protect locals and the earth through travel. The company is currently working on a new platform to foster a global community of sustainable travelers. For now, you can join their Facebook group to mingle with other travelers and destination locals who will help you plan a more impactful travel experience.
Sustainable travel about looking at the bigger picture by understanding the smaller details that encompass life for people and wildlife in a given destination, explains Louise. “When you do that, it becomes clear how things like race, diversity, cultural preservation and local economic empowerment are all connected to improving our environment. The exciting part is that, in approaching travel planning through this lens, you’ll also be rewarded with more unique, immersive experiences.”
David Leventhal, the founder of Regenerative Travel, agrees with Louise. Referencing Project Drawdown, a leading resource for climate change solutions, Leventhal points out that, while things like carbon offsets get a lot of press, there are many more impactful decisions we can make about the places we stay, the food we eat, and the waste streams we contribute to when traveling. “The key here is to understand your overall impact,” he says. ”Every decision has the potential to be more positive for people, the planet and you personally.”
As a general guide to decision-making, you can reference climate expert Paul Hawken’s recent book and website, Regeneration, in which he outlines several questions to ask yourself before making a decision, things like ‘Does this action restore land or degrade it? Reduce poverty or expand it? Provide workers with dignity or demean them? And, in general, is the activity extractive or regenerative?
Understanding that sustainable travel starts with better decision-making, we’ve outlined the top sustainable travel planning tools according to the timeline of decisions we make when planning travel, beginning with selecting where it is we want to go.
The best resources for choosing a sustainable destination
Photo: Marina Poushkina/Shutterstock
Sustainable travel experts agree that, when choosing a destination, the first thing to do is avoid places that have historically suffered from overtourism. We all saw how nature was able to rebound in US National Parks without the constant crowds passing through. As travel begins to return toward pre-pandemic levels, individuals can help mitigate the worst impacts of overtourism by opting for lesser-known destinations — like a visit to one of the American Midwest’s most European towns, or a secret spot for the country’s best mushroom foraging. If you’re dead-set on getting that iconic Instagram shot Yosemite or planning a bachelorette party to Miami, go for an off-peak season date to avoid the crowds.
For some help in destination selection, Louise recommends soon-to-launch start-up, Fora, which will offer travelers in 2022 a marketplace of advisors to choose from who will work with you one-on-one to book a sustainably-focused trip. The company has a core focus on promoting women’s empowerment and economic independence.
Travelers can also consider visiting a place that has a formal geotourism program. According to the Center for Responsible Travel (CREST), geotourism is defined as “tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place – its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being of its residents.” These destinations have MapGuides made by National Geographic Maps that help connect travelers with localized experiences. Apart from this, CREST has helped to establish destination-wide give-back programs in Cape Cod, Monteverde, Costa Rica, and Grenada, West Indies. A visit to CREST’s impact tourism page will connect travelers with companies all over the world that have established community and environmental support programs.
Finally, travelers can reference the United States Travel Care Code while planning, which provides people with simple guidelines on how they can reduce the impact of their travel on the environment.
Sites for sourcing more sustainable transportation
Photo: simona pilolla 2/Shutterstock
By now, we all understand the connection between CO2 emissions and rising global temperatures, which is why Costas Chris, co-founder of Preferred Hotel’s new Beyond Green program, encourages travelers to “walk, bike, take a bus, train and, only where needed, a plane,” adding that travelers should choose non-stop flights when possible, to avoid the heavy use of jet fuel for landings and take off.
Spinlister is a peer-to-peer bike-sharing app for those favoring a bike-tour of their destination. Using public transportation is another great way to quickly feel like a local and get an authentic, city experience. Our experts recommend CityMapper for determining the best way to get from point A to B. Alternatively, Google Maps recently rolled out a new update for US users that will automatically show users the most eco-friendly car route available. The platform also shows users public transport options, biking paths and walking routes.
When it comes to air travel, unfortunately, we’re a long way off from having a carbon-free option, which is why carbon-offsets have become popular with eco-conscious travelers. “Tomorrow’s Air is a subscription-based service I use to invest in permanent carbon storage (helping to remove carbon from the earth’s atmosphere),” says Louise. “In addition, the Carbn app makes it easy to calculate your carbon footprint and then offset your carbon with vetted and verified programs.”
Louise also recommends Skyscanner’s greener choices label. “It’s the best option I’ve seen in terms of transparency for greener flights, and the label makes it easy to spot and book which flights are the most environmentally friendly.”
The best online tools for vetting sustainable hotels
Photo: KKulikov/Shutterstock
Perhaps the area that’s seen the most innovation in past years is that of finding greener accommodations. Previously an epidemic of greenwashing in the hospitality industry made it hard to determine whether a hotel or resort was truly eco-friendly. Now, stricter accreditation practices and broader understandings of triple bottom lines — people, planet and profit — are helping people choose accommodations that truly have a positive impact on their destination.
Perhaps at the top of this list is Regenerative Travel’s directory of regenerative resorts. Going beyond “sustaining” a destination’s ecosystem, regenerative resorts are actually helping to re-grow wildlife, economies and individual opportunities for locals. Travelers can learn about the impact of their resort directly from the website. Founder David Leventhal also refers travelers to B-Corp’s tourism and hospitality directory. Achieving B-Corp certification is a rigorous process, and one that gets even more strict every year, so travelers can be assured that hotels and resorts with this label are meeting the highest and most current standards in eco-conscious hospitality. Alternatively, Green Globe is another globally recognized standard in sustainable hospitality, with a robust directory of verified hotels and resorts to select from.
The aforementioned and newly-launched Beyond Green platform from Preferred Hotels is another great option for sourcing more sustainable accommodations, with many properties in its directory overlapping that of Regenerative Travel. To date, Beyond Green members have restored more than a million acres of formerly degraded habitat into thriving ecosystems that are now protecting endangered species on land and sea. “It is all about impact,” says co-founder Costas Christ. “At Beyond Green, we have a very robust and challenging membership vetting process. We believe in walking our talk.”
While not all of its hotels achieve the highest standards of eco-hospitality, Kind Traveler is still a great way for travelers to make a positive impact on their destination. The award-winning platform is the world’s first socially-conscious, Give-and-Get hotel booking and education platform that empowers travelers to positively impact local communities and the environment in the destinations they visit. Travelers unlock special rates and perks when they give a $10 nightly donation to a locally vetted charity that positively impacts the visiting destination. The site also makes it easy for travelers to understand their hotel’s various green initiatives, as well as how it supports guest wellness and the health of its local community.
The best apps for booking local tours and experiences
Photo: AnnaTamila/Shutterstock
Now that flight and hotel are taken care of, it’s time to map out a greener itinerary. “When it comes to planning sustainable travel, so much of it comes down to asking “where will my money go?” says Louise. “If you see that your tourism dollars will stay in the local economy and support local jobs (or even community programs and nonprofits), that’s a great place to start. But also take the time to research the company and see what values they operate under. Do they talk about their mission to be more sustainable on their website? Are they transparent about their goals? And, last but not least, think about the experience that the company is offering. Does it feel empowering to local people and the local culture? Does it preserve and protect the environment and wildlife? Looking for answers to these questions will help guide your planning so that your travel experiences align with your values.
When in doubt, shop local. Some favorite resources from our experts include I Like Local, a website that connects travelers to locally-led tours and activities, VAWAA, which offers mini-apprenticeships with a master artist in cities around the world and Airbnb Experiences, where you can find a wide range of unique activities led by local experts who love their city.
How to book more sustainable restaurants on the road
Photo: lavizzara/Shutterstock
For food experiences, try EatWith, an Airbnb-style, meal booking platform where locals invite travelers into their homes for a family-style dinner or cooking class. And keep in mind that, if you’ve done the extra work to book a certified sustainable or regenerative hotel, the on-site dining options at your accommodation are also likely to meet those same standards. For instance, not only do Beyond Green members adhere to sustainable sourcing and local foods at their property restaurants, many also have on-site organic gardens from which they will source many ingredients. For instance, The Ranch at Laguna Beach not only sources its menu items from California’s local farming community, they also partner with local restaurants in the area that share their philosophy of sustainable dining and arrange for guests to experience the best local, and values-aligned, eateries.
Finally, sites like OpenTable now have maps of Zero Foodprint and Eco-Friendly restaurants across the US, as does ocean-conservation organization Surfrider.
Of course, there’s also the analog option. “When I travel, I spend time asking locals ‘where would you go?’” explains Leventhal. “I back this question up with my taste for local, locally-sourced, farm-to-table, etc…My kids used to get embarrassed when I’d ask waiters, chefs, hostesses this question, but not anymore. I find that people who work in the food business generally know the types of places I am looking for. So I ask my waiter ‘where would you go tonight if you weren’t working?’ You develop great relationships with locals through these conversations and feel more connected to a place.”
When it comes to sustainable travel, there really isn’t a one-size-fits-all, which is why having these resources, directories and apps available just one click away is so helpful. “As you learn more about sustainability, take baby steps,” offers Louise, understanding how intimidating it can feel when you try to do everything perfectly. Instead, she encourages travelers to look for opportunities to have a positive impact. Rules can feel overwhelming, but when approached from a perspective of wanting a real connection with your destination, the result is an adventure that feels uplifting, immersive, positive and, most importantly, creates memories to last a lifetime.
The post The best new services for planning a more sustainable trip in 2022 appeared first on Matador Network.
This German spa town is the most relaxing post-COVID escape
Confession time: it’s been a year since I last boarded an airplane. Longer since I’ve flown internationally. Sitting in various stages of lockdown for 14 months, pretending to enjoy jigsaw puzzles and delusionally believing Duolingo would make me fluent in French, I fantasized about what my triumphant return to travel might look like. Each time, it resembled a scene from Heart of Darkness — an intrepid, harrowing adventure that would more than compensate for my sedentary months in front of the TV. Well, when international borders finally reopened to US citizens, I identified more with Bilbo Baggins than Marlow. My travel muscles were heavy with rust, and I had gotten used to my hobbit hole. That’s why, when I had the chance to take a relaxing wellness trip to Baden-Baden, Germany, I jumped on it quicker than a hobbit on pipe-weed.
Baden-Baden, in the German state of Baden-Württemberg, is known for its thermal baths and relaxing location on the doorstep of the Black Forest. Its spas made the town a popular health and wellness retreat in the 19th century, and that tradition continues today, attracting visitors from all over Europe and overseas in need of a mental and physical breather. Ritzy spas are as ubiquitous in Baden-Baden as restaurants serving Schnitzel, but with the Black Forest a 10-minute walk away, you can also plunge into nature’s healing embrace without spending a dime. Here’s why Baden-Baden is the perfect low-stress travel destination to help you shake off those travel cobwebs.
A wellness state of mindConfession number two: I’m completely incapable of relaxing. Our hyper-competitive, fast-paced, results-oriented culture often makes it difficult to disconnect from responsibilities and truly unwind — even on vacation. Baden-Baden was different. The city’s slow pace of life and wellness-centric attitude sets a tone that lulls even the most hyperactive mind into a state of calm.
Photo: Sina Ettmer Photography/Shutterstock
To feel this, you don’t have to stay at one of Baden-Baden’s upscale spa hotels. One of the city’s most stately buildings is its public Trinkhalle (drinking hall), built in the 19th century for residents and visitors looking to drink from Baden-Baden’s curative thermal waters. Lined with Corinthian columns and mythologically-themed murals, the hall’s impressive promenade was a gathering place for 19th-century elites, who would come here to socialize and drink from the hall’s spring. You won’t find the original spring anymore, but fountains remain — here and elsewhere around the city — bubbling with waters that are said to have healing properties.
Indeed, Baden-Baden was one of the most popular medical tourism destinations in Germany in the 19th century. Drinking, inhaling, or bathing in the city’s thermal springs was rumored to minimize the symptoms of cardiovascular diseases, metabolic conditions, and rheumatism, and people came from all over Europe to soothe their ailments. While thermal waters and spa treatments aren’t proven medical cures, people still flock to Baden-Baden for preventative care and holistic treatment. And these treatments aren’t limited to spas and thermal springs, either. The Salina Sea Salt Grotto is a man-made cave whose walls are completely covered in sea salt from the Dead Sea and the Himalayas. Visitors go there to inhale the sea salt deep into their lungs, which is said to cure various respiratory illnesses and skin conditions, strengthen the immune system, and improve physical and mental regeneration.
To be completely honest, though, you can inhale all the salty air you want but nothing is better for mental regeneration than taking a stroll through the Black Forest. The practice of “forest bathing” rose to prominence in Japan in the 1980s, but it’s actually a tradition dating back thousands of years. The goal of forest bathing is to relieve stress and clear your mind by completely immersing yourself in nature. That could mean taking a leisurely stroll through the woods, going for a quiet, introspective hike, or simply sitting on the ground and meditating. For the residents of Baden-Baden, forest bathing is a facet of everyday life. It takes less than 10 minutes to walk to the Black Forest from the center of town, and there are dozens of hiking trails through the forest. The 28-mile Panorama Trail in particular, winding through woods, orchards, and past waterfalls, was designated the most beautiful hiking trail in Germany in 2020.
Get naked for a good causeBaden-Baden is filled with well-heeled visitors sporting jackets and dresses you couldn’t afford with three months’ salary. Even if you’re not spending your nights at the lavish Casino Baden-Baden — Germany’s answer to Monte Carlo — the city’s amenities can feel a bit prohibitive to those who don’t have thousands to wager on a hand of blackjack. Public spas are the great equalizer. The Friedrichsbad and Caracalla spas are the two main public spas in Baden-Baden, and both offer visitors pampering at a reasonable price.
Photo: Friedrichsbad Baden-Baden/Facebook
Friedrichsbad Spa is visually impressive, built in the Renaissance style in 1877. With a grandiose domed hall, artistic frescoes, and baths modeled after the Roman and Irish tradition, this temple of relaxation is also a trip back in time. The spa has 17 different stations, including pools of varying temperatures, showers, a soap and brush massage, steam, whirlpool, exercise baths, and a relaxation room. All 17 stations can be used for a fee as low as $45. Be advised, however, that while swimsuits are permitted, bathing at Friedrichsbad traditionally takes place in the nude.
Photo: Caracalla Therme/Facebook
For an even more budget-friendly experience, head over to Caracalla Therme, also located in the heart of Baden-Baden. For just $17 per person, you can take advantage of this more modern spa’s indoor and outdoor baths, pools of varying temperatures, and whirlpools. An extra $5 will earn you entry to the (clothing-free) sauna. The mineral-rich thermal waters of both Caracalla and Friedrichsbad originate from a depth of 1.2 miles underground and are heated to between 90 and 154 degrees for maximum physical stimulation and relaxation.
Lifestyles of the rich and relaxedOkay, I have a third confession to make: I’ve never enjoyed massages. Big surprise for a guy who’s incapable of relaxing, right? Massages always felt like something the government might do to extract information from terrorists. You might be loose and limber afterward, but only because you just endured the painful pulverization of muscles you didn’t even know you had. The world-class spas of Baden-Baden changed my perception.
A hotel spa isn’t something you’ll find at the local Holiday Inn, but in Baden-Baden hotel spas are commonplace — and offer the best treatments you could ask for. The Royal Spa at Hotel Maison Messmer is a Romanesque space defined by its frescoes and columns. There’s an indoor heated pool illuminated by a light shining through a glass cupola, and saunas and steam rooms where you can repose (naked or clothed) after a swim. The spa also offers massages, facial treatments, and even microneedling procedures for the stimulation of collagen production.
Brenners Park-Hotel and Spa is the pinnacle of luxury in Baden-Baden. Looking more like a palace than a hotel, Brenners has a cigar lounge, billiards room, a resident cat named Cleopatra, and played host to dignitaries like Bill Clinton and the Dalai Lama. The place isn’t cheap, but unlike many luxury offerings these days, you actually get what you pay for.
Photo: Brenners Park-Hotel and Spa/Facebook
The hotel spa is Villa Stephanie, a sprawling five-floor house of indulgence with a sauna, indoor pool, plunge pool, treatment rooms, gym, and patio with views of a lush private park. The spa specializes in preventative medicine, employing its own nutrition coaches and doctors who create customized menus for guests, and fitness trainers who will craft individualized workout routines. It’s impossible not to feel relaxed inside Villa Stephanie, but even the ambient music and soothingly-dimmed lighting didn’t ease my skepticism about receiving a massage.
“You are nervous?” my masseuse asked, perceptively.
“Not nervous,” I said, “I just have trouble relaxing sometimes.”
He didn’t answer, as if tacitly communicating that he sees people like me all the time, and knows exactly how to handle us. Indeed, he did. Rather than feeling like I should tap out of a hold, or confess to a crime I didn’t commit, I actually enjoyed the experience and didn’t want it to end.
“People come to Villa Stephanie from all over the world,” he said. “They like Baden-Baden for its calm and quiet. And we’re right next to the forest. It’s hard to relax in America, yes? Here, it’s easy.”
Spa tradition beyond Baden-BadenGermany might not be the first country that comes to mind when you envision a wellness retreat, but its spa offerings go far beyond just Baden-Baden. Also in the Black Forest region you’ll find Bad Wildbad and Badenweiler. Bad Wildbad, a small town with a population just over 10,000 is known for its Palais Thermal spa. Built in 1847, the spa is the epicenter of the town’s bathing tradition, offering pools, saunas, and steam baths inside a Moorish-inspired building. Badenweiler, on the western edge of the Black Forest, is another health resort and spa. Many visit the town for its warm mineral springs, picturesque setting, and sprawling Cassiopeia Therme spa.
Photo: Cassiopeia Therme Badenweiler/Facebook
If you don’t mind a little road trip, Bad Nauheim sits about two hours north of Baden-Baden, and has one of the richest spa traditions in the whole country. Defined by its art nouveau buildings, plentiful green spaces, and obsession with the fact that Elvis once lived there, Bad Nauheim was immensely popular in the 19th century for its curative bathing waters thought to heal cardiovascular diseases. The Sprudelhof (or “fountain court”) is the center of this spa tradition, until recently housing a bathhouse with mineral waters and the original tubs from over 100 years ago. A new, highly-anticipated bathhouse and spa are currently under construction there, and it’s set to open in 2023.
Until then, residents take advantage of several modern spas like Dolce and Einklang, and the innovative Gesundheit park. The park is dotted with workout equipment, and mindfulness exercises like a “humming stone,” barefoot garden walk, and couples swing set. There’s also a section with cold-water pools designed to help circulate blood throughout your legs, arms, and feet.
The post This German spa town is the most relaxing post-COVID escape appeared first on Matador Network.
September 29, 2021
How to find, and drink, the best coffees from around the world
Coffee, like wine, is a beverage that reflects where it’s grown. There are varieties specific to a place, like kapeng barako from the Philippines, as well as styles specific to a place, like a . But you don’t have to go traversing the world to get a taste of the coffees of the world. Instead, let coffee subscriptions bring the flavors of the world to you.
These coffee subscriptions make it easy to make a cup from beans that originated wherever you desire. Plus, most have a sustainability focus — both environmental sustainability and livelihood sustainability for the people who grow the coffee we love so much.
Volcanica CoffeeAs you might gather from the name of the brand, Volcanica Coffee focuses on coffee sourced from more than 150 volcanic regions around the world. And, as coffee nerds know, volcanic regions are perfect for coffee trees. The owners were inspired by the coffee from Costa Rica (a volcanic region you can buy beans from through Volcanica), and today the brand’s focus is on single-origin and estate coffees that have a sense of place. Volcanica is also where you can find peaberry coffee, which comes from a mutation in the tree that causes one bean, rather than two, in each coffee cherry.
The coffee is roasted on demand in Atlanta, and the roasting date is printed on the bag so you know you’re getting it fresh. The beans themselves are sourced from coffee farms and local cooperatives, and are sorted by four general regions: Africa and Arabia, Americas, Caribbean, and Indonesia and Pacific. Maybe that means you opt for a Costa Rican peaberry that’s grown at an elevation of 5,200 feet, or perhaps it’s a Tanzanian coffee grown in the Ngorongoro Crater. Whatever your preferences, you can change up your subscriptions or layer various weekly subscriptions to fit what you enjoy.
As part of its mission to give back, one percent of retail sales is donated to charity: water to support the organizations clean water initiatives.
Subscription cost: 10 percent off purchases, which start at $16.99 per 16-ounce bag
Atlas Coffee Club
Photo: Atlas Coffee Club
If you’re looking for a worldly coffee subscription that has an equally worldly name, look no further than Atlas Coffee Club. The brand’s coffee of the month club ships a 12-ounce bag of coffee that originates in countries like Colombia, Kenya, the western highland of Papua New Guinea, Honduras, and more — each month features a different country, so you can set your morning taste buds to a different spot every four weeks (or two weeks if you choose the more frequent shipping option).
Along with the coffee, each shipment comes with a postcard of the location, flavor notes, and brewing tips. There’s a lot to choose from, and you can narrow your selection down by whether you prefer whole bean or ground coffee, as well as by your roast preference.
Subscription cost: $28 per shipment, and half price for your first order
Red Bay CoffeeKeba Konte started Red Bay Coffee Roasters in Oakland in 2014. Diversity, inclusion, and social and economic restoration are at the heart of the company’s ethos. The coffees include options like the Coltrane (a single-origin Colombian coffee), the Motherland (a single-origin Burundi coffee), and the Gondo (a single-origin Kenyan coffee). You can choose a subscription option when you purchase for a 10 percent discount on each 12-ounce bag that arrives weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.
Subscription cost: 10 percent discount on each 12-ounce bag
Gento Coffee
Photo: Gento
The first thing you need to know about Gento Coffee and the brand’s coffee subscription is that it starts, and for the most part stays, in Guatemala. The coffee comes straight from the coffee farms it’s grown and roasted on (shipments go out within 24 hours of being roasted). The farms are shade-grown and farmed in high-altitude volcanic soil. Gento works directly with the producers, meaning that the people who make the farmer-roasted, high-quality coffees get higher pay than fair-trade prices in the extremely volatile coffee market. This way you know the money you’re spending actually stays with the people who put in the work rather than a large chunk going to middlemen.
Gento’s subscription comes with bi-weekly or monthly shipment options. With the Roaster’s Choice subscription, different varieties from varying regions (both single-origin and blends) let the subscriber experience some of the best in Guatemalan coffee. Plus, 10 percent of profits go to Guatemalan food security and education programs.
Subscription cost: 12-ounce bags start at about $15, and you save 20 percent on each bag with a subscription
Kurasu CoffeeWith Kurasu Coffee’s partner roaster plan, the brand works with a different specialty roaster in Japan each month to give a taste of what Japanese roasters are making across the country. The exact variety and roast type depends on the roaster, meaning you get what you get so that each producer can show off what they want to highlight. The Kurasu roast plan picks from what the company is particularly into at the time, including subscription exclusives — typically this means light roasts, and all are designed for filter coffee. Shipments also include information on the roaster and recipe.
Kurasu started in 2013 as a way to get homegoods from Japan to Australia. Japanese coffee culture was a hit, and it became the main focus of Kurasu (which means “lifestyle” in Japanese). Today, the Kyoto-based subscription service is an easy way to get a taste of Japanese coffee regardless of where you live.
Subscription cost: $31 per month
Trade Coffee
Photo: Trade Coffee/Facebook
Trade Coffee delivers beans and grounds from 22 countries, ranging from Burundi to Cameroon to El Salvador to Yemen. Even for the well-traveled coffee brands on this list, that’s a lot — and many of the countries listed are places you can’t easily find coffee from at the store or online. Trade Coffee offers more than 400 roasted-to-order coffees in all.
Starting a subscription starts with an eight-question survey about the types of coffee you typically drink and how you typically prepare it. From there, you can customize the order frequency and amount, and you can always swap something else in before the order ships.
Subscription cost: Plans vary, but start at about $12.50 per 12-ounce bag
DriftawayLike others listed here, Driftaway is a coffee company with a mission to help the people who so often are left out of the conversation: the farmers. The Brooklyn-based brand roasts the coffees that are grown in Peru, Uganda, Papua New Guinea, and elsewhere. Subscription plans start with a tasting kit to dial in on the subscriber’s personal preferences. The four options are rated with notes on Driftaway’s app, and then shipments of the coffee that is a best match are sent either weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. The packaging it comes in is 100 percent compostable, 5 cents for every pound is donated to the World Coffee Research, and 100 percent of shipping and operations emissions are offset.
Subscription cost: From $17.10 per 12-ounce bag, with options for a one-pound bag that starts at $21.60 each and a two-pound bag that starts at $32.40 each
The post How to find, and drink, the best coffees from around the world appeared first on Matador Network.
Drowning girl statue stuns residents in Spain
Appearing from the waters of Bilbao’s River Nervion is a creepy, realistic-looking face of a young girl drowning, and it has caught the attention of locals.
This “drowning girl statue” is entitled “Bihar,” which means “tomorrow” in Basque, and was created by Mexican hyperrealist artist Ruben Orozco. This statute is for a campaign by the BBK Foundation, the charitable arm of Spanish lender Kutxabank, created to spark a conversation about sustainability and climate change.
The goal of the figure is for people to be aware that “their actions can sink us or keep us afloat,” Ruben Orozco told a Spanish news site, the The Sun reported.
Photo: Reuters
Each day as the tides rise and fall, the 264-pound, fiberglass figure gets submerged and uncovered by the water, and according to The Sun, BBK said this is an example of what could be “if we continue to bet on unsustainable models.”
But residents awoke the following day in shock and confusion after the statue was taken by boat and lower into the water in the middle of the night without anyone knowing. Most reactions have been the opposite.
An onlooker told Reuters, “At first it gave me a feeling of stress, when more of the face was out of the water, but now to me she communicates sadness, a lot of sadness. She doesn’t even look worried, it’s as if she is letting herself drown.”
This isn’t Orozco’s first time being in the spotlight. Two years ago, he participated in a case study with BBK and created a life-sized statue of a woman sitting alone on a park bench called “Invisible Soledad,” which sparked a lot of debate.
The post Drowning girl statue stuns residents in Spain appeared first on Matador Network.
It’s time to discover New England’s serene, little-known “other” Berkshires
When you think of the Berkshires, it’s likely your mind goes straight to Massachusetts — and stays there. We get it. Mentions of the “Berkshires” nearly always refer to the western Mass highland known for its mountain views, picturesque towns, and blazing fall colors. But we urge you to get to know the other Berkshires, which have just as much beauty and brilliant fall foliage, but far fewer visitors. These Berkshires are right across the state border in northwestern Connecticut.
Where are the “Other” Berkshires?
Photo: Dan Hanscom/Shutterstock
The Berkshire highlands are a mountain range within the larger Appalachians that span parts of western Massachusetts and northwest Connecticut. The stretch of Berkshires in Connecticut stretch from the Upper Housatonic Valley to the Berkshires’ foothills in an area called the Litchfield Hills or also the Northwest Hills.
The diverse nomenclature explains the non-awareness about the Connecticut Berkshires. The highlands here in this northwestern portion cross over to eastern New York to the east and, obviously, the famous Massachusetts Berkshires to the north. Within Connecticut, the loveliest part of the Berkshires are those in Litchfield Hills, dotted with 21 towns, many quite picturesque, in a rural portion of the state.
What makes the Connecticut side particularly appealing is not just its natural beauty but also the fact that it’s infrequently visited by both local residents and out-of-state travelers compared to its neighbor. The “other” Berkshires cover less area but do pack a big punch in terms of history and outdoor options.
The Litchfield Hills are only an hour from New Haven, and 2.5 hours from either Boston or New York, and we can’t recommend a better place in Connecticut for tranquility, views, and a whole lot of hiking opportunities.
Hike to the highest point in Connecticut
Photo: ShanShan0312/Shutterstock
Near to the quaint town of Salisbury you can have the epic experience of hiking to both the highest summit and highest elevation point in the Nutmeg State. Along a slightly long, tree-lined dirt road, you’ll find the starting points for both treks. Bear Mountain is Connecticut’s highest summit at 2,316 feet. The lush mountaintop is best visited in summers, particularly in July when you should be able to spot some wildflowers. From the parking area, it’s a three-mile ascent to the summit, on what’s known as the “Under Mountain Trail.” The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, but steep.
While the summit of Bear Mountain might feel like the highest point in Connecticut, you’ll actually have to keep trekking to reach that mark — since the highest point in the state is on the way up to a summit in another state. First, descend Bear Mountain and head towards head up Mt Frissell towards the border of Massachusetts.
After bagging a peak, continue on to see the plaque that marks the Connecticut high point of 2,380 feet. There’s no view here, but it’s a fun and offbeat thing to do to reach both Connecticut’s tallest mountain and the highest point within the state. Then, continue onto Brace Mountain which has stunning views of nearby rural New York. There’s even a marked point along the trail, the CT/MA/NY Tri-Point, where all three states meet.
Discover the Litchfield Historic District
Photo: Dan Hanscom/Shutterstock
The Litchfield Historic District has been listed on the National Registry of Historic Places since 1968. The district is a realistic example of an 18th-century New England village, and some can’t-miss sights include its well-manicured village green, along with the Litchfield First Congregational Church, which opened its doors in 1721.
On North and South Streets you can gawk at large, white farm-style homes that have been standing for centuries, and on West Street you can get in some shopping, window or otherwise, as well as a variety of tasty eats.
Photograph an old covered bridge
Photo: Dan Hanscom/Shutterstock
Historical covered bridges that look like small, barn-like tunnels are yet another unique cultural feature of the Connecticut Berkshires. When these bridges were built, they were covered not to protect those crossing the bridge from the elements but to safeguard the wooden bridges themselves from excessive moisture brought by rain and snow.
Today, these bridges decorate the landscape in these parts. A nice one to visit is Bull’s Bridge in Kent, which crosses the Housatonic River and measures up at a total length of 109 feet. It was built in 1842 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can also marvel at the West Cornwall Covered Bridge, located in Cornwall, Connecticut, thought to date from 1864. At 172 feet long, this is the longest covered bridge in Connecticut and has the striking appearance of a red farmhouse.
Explore Kent by bicycle
Photo: Richard Cavalleri/Shutterstock
Kent is a small town filled with natural beauty, including several state parks. and despite all it has to offer, one of the sleepy village’s best assets are it’s nearly empty streets that cascade through aesthetically pleasing, New England style homes. Many are in the style of farm houses, with slanted roofs and painted in colors like rustic red, white, and blue. The Housatonic River runs through the town and offers many solitary, shady spots if you need a break from exploration.
Regardless of the day of the week, you can coast along Kent’s country roads via bicycle without having to worry too much about traffic. You can check out the trails at Kent Falls State Park, Macedonia Brook State Park, or perhaps mix up your day with a bit of hiking in addition to cycling. Kent has multiple hiking trails to choose from, including a 10+ mile portion of the Appalachian. If you don’t have your own bike, you can rent one from The Bicycle Tour Company, a helpful local business where you can also get some stellar route tips and itineraries for the entire region.
Sip your way through Connecticut’s Western Wine Trail
Photo: Erin Ruff/Shutterstock
Connecticut might not be nationally known for its wine, but due to an ideal climate, numerous wineries have popped up all over in recent years as the industry continues to grow. And while wineries can be found all over the Nutmeg State, there are none more scenic than those peppered throughout its section of the Berkshires.
The Litchfield Hills lay claim to seven recognized wineries. While you can’t go wrong at any of them, the Hopkins Vineyard is my recommendation for those with limited time. Located in the town of Warren, Connecticut, it has some of the best views in the area to complement its selection of award-winning wines.
Visit the White Memorial Conservation Center
Photo: ShanShan0312/Shutterstock
A 4,000-acre environmental education center featuring wetlands, trails, camping, and even a museum can be explored in Litchfield, Connecticut, the town after which the Litchfield Hills region is named. Established in 1964, this ecosystem features 10 different ponds and 40 different hiking routes through the forest.
The preserve also includes six miles of the nearby Bantam River, which you can cross by embarking on the 1.2-mile Little Pond route. This consists of a boardwalk that’s suitable for nature lovers of all ages. Mountain bikers can also explore many of the trails, which are peppered with informative signs about various wildlife and flora that call the center home.
Go leaf peepingPhoto: Enfi/Shutterstock
Of all the things to do in the Other Berkshires, the fall colors may be the most magical. Connecticut is one of the best states to see foliage in the entire US, and the Litchfield Hills region of the Berkshires is the first place you should head when in need of a long, colorful drive.
Typically, the colors start to pop around the first week of October each year; but you can time the show with Connecticut’s foliage tracker. Maples, maidenhairs (my personal favorite), and oak trees are a few of the top producers of magic in Connecticut’s Berkshires, though you can find other rarer types as well. If you time it right, you’re guaranteed to see orange, red and yellow leaves anywhere you go in the “Other” Berkshires.
That said, a good driving loop that foliage enthusiasts can follow is the roughly 100-mile-long Litchfield Hills Ramble. It begins in Torrington, Connecticut, and brings you through the towns/villages of Falls Village, Kent, Warren, New Preston, East Morris, and Litchfield.
Drive the New Milford Quilt Trail
Photo: New Milford Barn Quilt Trail/Facebook
While New Milford may be slightly too far south to be considered a true part of the Connecticut Berkshires, it’s still in Litchfield County. Since you’ll likely drive through it on your trip, you should stop in for a unique cultural experience. The New Milford Quilt Trail, the first of its kind in the state, will take you on a drive past 19 different barns throughout New Milford — all with large quilts boasting colorful designs that you can see from the comfort of your car. Each of the quilt designs is special, with each square speaking to the history of its location.
The post It’s time to discover New England’s serene, little-known “other” Berkshires appeared first on Matador Network.
Eminem’s famed ‘Mom’s Spaghetti’ now has a permanent restaurant in Detroit
The year is 2002, and Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” is blasting through the speakers. “His palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy. There’s vomit on his sweater already, mom’s spaghetti.” Well almost two decades later the famous hit has a brick and mortar restaurant to go with it called, appropriately, Mom’s Spaghetti, which opens in Detroit on Sept. 29.
The restaurant was first introduced as a pop-up in 2017, and in 2020 it returned as a way to pass out free meals to healthcare workers. Now the famous lyric will become a permanent fixture of the community thanks to the Detroit-based Union Joints restaurant group. Eminem confirmed the news and even posted the restaurant’s commercial on Twitter.
Moms spaghetti it’s alllllll ready Detroit! Come thru Wednesday 🍝 info on the site – https://t.co/b49UQxAhnx pic.twitter.com/PsXgPqNXY2
— Marshall Mathers (@Eminem) September 28, 2021
The Detroit News confirmed the restaurant will be held in a “small bodega space” at 2131 Woodward Ave. The shop will provide a walk-up window where diners can place an order from the variations of Mom’s spaghetti: with or without meatballs, with vegan meatballs, or you can try the ‘Sghetti Sandwich, which is spaghetti sandwiched between two pieces of bread. True Eminem fans can afterwards check out The Trailer, a store selling limited-edition Eminem merch and memorabilia.
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Get cozy in these 10 large-group Airbnbs in the Lake Tahoe mountains
With its stunning views, 15 ski resorts, bars, restaurants, and casinos, Lake Tahoe has something for everyone. You may want to spend your days hitting the slopes or exploring the lake towns. Maybe you’ll go for a winter hike or take a day trip to Truckee. One thing’s for sure: when you’re not outside breathing in the crisp mountain air, you’re going to want to be inside, snuggling up and winding down in one of the best Lake Tahoe Airbnbs for groups and families.
We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.
Castle getaway minutes from Stateline casinos and Zephyr Cove
Photo: Airbnb
Tucked away in a wooded neighborhood, you’d never know this seven-bedroom property is only five minutes from Stateline or Zephyr Cove. Charming and straight out of a fairytale, its warm tones, exposed brick, and ornate study will make you want to curl up with a book from its well-stocked shelves. Other features include multiple fireplaces, a pool table, a separate in-law unit, and an outdoor fire pit.
Sixteen guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $742 per night
Photo: Airbnb
If you’re looking for a quiet place to soak up Tahoe’s spectacular views and spend quality time with your group, this home might be just what you need. The kitchen living area opens up to one of the property’s two massive wrap-around porches, offering a stunning view of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Mountains. Between the views and the lounge (complete with a bar, fireplace, and pool table) you might not even mind if you get snowed in.
Twelve guests, five bedrooms
Price: $302 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Whether traveling with friends or family, this property is ideal for forming the kind of cozy cabin memories usually reserved for sleepover camp. The “Bunk Room” is complete with eight built-in bunk beds, bean bags, a fireplace, and a TV. It’s the perfect setting for scary stories around the fireplace, movie nights, and late-night conversations to close out a long day on the slopes.
Ten guests, 4 bedrooms
Price: $594 per night
Photo: Airbnb
This one-of-a-kind rental is proof that modern, luxury homes can often give off the coziest vibes. If skiing up to your rental without having to deal with parking isn’t enough to give you warm feelings, the reading nook under the staircase, the outdoor fireplace, and the hot tub will. Sitting by the fireplace, looking through the floor-to-ceiling windows at the Northstar slopes, you’ll feel like you’re inside a snowglobe.
Fourteen guests, four bedrooms
Price: $1,331 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Located in the hills behind Incline Village, this AvantStay home has everything you need to settle in for the long haul. All of the essentials are covered: washer/dryer, cooking basics, extra sheets, and more. With a spacious desk, two fireplaces, a giant couch, and a porch swing with a lake view, you can live, work, and relax in this cozy abode. It is within walking distance to Diamond Peak and about a 15-minute drive to Mt. Rose.
Twelve guests, five bedrooms
Price: $673 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Nestled in the trees between Tahoe City and Homewood, this mid-century modern home will keep you relaxed and entertained. Stocked with books, a record player, board games, and a piano, it’s full of activities. The host lists chipmunks, rabbits, and black bears as some of the wildlife you can see out of the floor-to-ceiling windows and if you need a break from the 360 fireplace and cozy window seats, a private beach entrance is just a short walk away.
Eight guests, five bedrooms
Price: $357 per night
Photo: Airbnb
At only $258 per night, this rental is a steal for two or more groups, especially those traveling with kids. With two small, rustic cottages joined by a communal patio, this property gives the rare option of privacy. The stone fireplaces and distressed features make these cozy cottages the perfect place to escape from your fellow travelers and enjoy a snowy lakefront view.
Twelve guests, five bedrooms
Price: $258 per night
Photo: Airbnb
You’ll think you’re in a ski lodge at this massive Northstar estate with vaulted ceilings, a leather sofa, slate floors, and ski-inspired decor. The kitchen includes three dishwashers, three ovens, and a professional stove perfect for a large family dinner. Between the well-equipped kitchen, pool table, foosball table, shuffleboard, and stash of board games, this home is more than ready for 12 adults (and up to 8 children under 16). What’s cozier than a house full of family?
12 guests, five bedrooms
Price: $1,010 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Only available for stays of 30 days or more, this Carnelian Bay rental is great for a long-term getaway. Its warm wood features, velvet sofas, and vaulted ceilings add a homey vibe to this modern cabin. The central location provides easy access to North Lake Tahoe’s attractions, including access to multiple trailheads on the North Tahoe Ale Trail map. If you’re looking for a more laid-back vacation, the home offers a hot tub, fire pit, and home theater.
Sixteen guests, five bedrooms
Price: $747 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Moving away from the traditional warm features of a mountain cabin, this bright and open space puts a modern twist on cozy. If you can manage to drag yourself away from the stunning lake view, the area offers many family-friendly activities including horseback riding, skiing, and paddleboarding. No matter what your day plans, guests report sipping coffee on the wrap-around porch, watching the morning sunrises, to be a top vacation memory.
Twelve guests, five bedrooms
Price: $1050 per night
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Longest ever Qantas flight to repatriate stranded Australians in South America
Qantas is set to fly its longest flight next month — a record-breaking 14,680km (9,124 miles). The Qantas repatriation flight will be the airlines longest non-stop flight with a departure from Darwin, Australia and arrival in Buenos Aires, Argentina — via the South Pole.
The Australian federal government organized the repatriation flight to bring stranded Australians home who are stuck in South American since Australia closed its international borders in March 2019.
According to Executive Traveller, the Qantas repatriation flight will depart on October 5 and will fly further than the current longest non-stop flight from Perth to London. The Qantas flight between Darwin to Buenos Aires will take 18 hours.
When the passengers finally get home to Australian soil they will be housed in the Howard Springs quarantine facility. But there are concerns with the requirements of COVID testing, which is making it hard for Australian passengers to make bookings.
There are other worries regarding Australians who are stranded in other parts of South America. The flight from Buenos Aires is the only repatriation flight currently scheduled. Due to border crossing restrictions in South America, ABC News reports many Australians have voiced concerns about being able to reach the Argentinian airport in time for departure.
The Department of Foregin Affairs has assisted more than 56,000 Australians to get back home since the beginning of the pandemic. This included more than 28,300 people on 184 government-assisted flights.
The post Longest ever Qantas flight to repatriate stranded Australians in South America appeared first on Matador Network.
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