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All the gear you need to have an epic fall camping trip

Camping isn’t just a summer activity. We might think the warmer months are camping season, with their longer days and milder evenings, but fall can be even better. Massive crowds don’t descend on campgrounds in the fall like they do in summer, you don’t have to worry about baking in the heat, and you can wake up surrounded by colorful foliage. Since you’ll likely be dealing with cooler weather, however, it’s important to have the best fall camping gear.

According to Matador Network’s outdoor experts, this is the fall camping gear you need to keep on your radar this season.

We hope you love the gear for fall 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. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.

Kootek Camping Hammock

Photo: Kootek

Let’s be honest — there are two types of campers. Those who forge into the wilderness set up camp, and immediately embark on a strenuous hike, and those who drag a cooler full of beer 50 feet from the parking lot and waste no time cracking it open. For the second type of camper, this hammock is for you. Lightweight and foldable, this convenient hammock can be set up in mere minutes and offers a more comfortable alternative to sleeping on the ground.

Price: $21.99 — $25.99

Buy

ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1-Person Tent

Photo: ALPS Mountaineering

The more time you spend setting up your tent, the less time you can spend hiking, fishing, grilling, and drinking. The ALPS Mountaineering Lynx tent really simplifies your tent set up. Make sure this tent makes your fall camping gear list. It’s free-standing, resistant to water and UV damage, and can be erected in a matter of minutes.

Price: $109.99

Buy

Helinox Chair One

Photo: REI

Sitting on the ground would probably be a more authentic camping experience, but since when has comfort not trumped authenticity? The Helinox Chair One packs down to a carrying size smaller than a fanny pack, and can be set up within seconds.

Price: $99.95

Buy

Sleepingo Camping Sleeping Pad

Photo: Sleepingo/Facebook

With two inches of sleep support, this sleeping pad will enhance any outdoor sleeping situation. The portable mat pad is easier to inflate and more convenient than an air mattress while providing a comparable level of comfort.

Price: $39.95

Buy

MalloMe Camping Cookware Mess Kit

Photo: MalloMe

Sure, you could struggle to cook dinner over a fire using sticks and planks of wood, or you could make life a whole lot easier with this camping cookware set. The 10-piece set includes a nonstick pot, pot cover, nonstick pan, two bowls, a folding spork, soup spoon, wooden spoon spatula, cleaning sponge, and a nylon travel bag. It might not be rugged, but when you’re hungry — who cares?

Price: $21.99

Buy

RONXS Lighter

Photo: RONXS

As Blink-182 once said, it’s “all the small things” that really matter. Indeed, the small stuff can easily make or break your camping experience, like not having a lighter for your grill. The RONXS Lighter ensures that you can actually cook your food at night, which can be a literal lifesafer. When fully charged, the lighter is good for 600 uses — more than enough to get you through the camping season.

Price: $9.99

Buy

Coghlan’s Pop-Up Recycle Bin

Photo: Coghlan’s

“Leave no trace” is a common mantra among outdoor enthusiasts, but sometimes that’s easier said than done. Coghlan’s Pop-Up Recycle Bin helps you do it. Portable and easy to carry, the collapsible trash can hold a 30-gallon trash bag and will go a long way toward keeping your campsite clean.

Price: $9.99

Buy

GoSports PVC Framed Cornhole Toss Game Set

Photo: GoSports

Is camping without cornhole really camping? Rather than try to Tetris-squeeze a heavy wooden cornhole set into your trunk, just bring this foldable, compact set weighing only 10 pounds. Both targets can be assembled and ready-to-play in under a minute.

Price: $39.99

Buy

Coleman Rolling Cooler

Photo: Coleman

It’s not quite winter yet. You still need a cooler to keep those drinks cold, and this Coleman cooler gets the job done. With extra insulation, the cooler keeps ice up to five days in temperature as high as 90 degrees. It can hold up to 95 cans — perfect for a large camping group — and has durable wheels that roll over any terrain.

Price: $56

Buy

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Venice uses cameras and tracks cell phones to limit tourist numbers

Venice is at it again in its fight against overtourism – Big Brother style.

On Monday, September 6, 2021, Reuters reported that Venice now tracks “every person who sets foot in the lagoon city”.

According to Reuters, Venice uses 468 cameras, a cell phone-tracing system, and optical sensors, that can tell residents from visitors and Italians from foreigners, where those people are coming from, where they are going, and how fast they are moving.

These cameras are controlled by and set up in police headquarters in Venice, and the devices take a snapshot every 15 minutes of how crowded the city is. They also track how many gondolas are on the canal, if boats are speeding, and if the waters rise to dangerous levels.

“I expect protests, lawsuits, everything…but I have a duty to make this city liveable for those who inhabit it and also for those who want to visit,” said Venice mayor Luigi Brugnaro to reporters.

The use of cameras and the tracking system are part of Venice’s attempt to limit the number of tourists in Venice at a given time in an effort to combat the negative effect of overtourism in the city.

A couple of weeks ago, it was announced that, starting next summer, Venice was to require travelers to book their visit in advance, pay an entry fee between $3.50 and $12 depending on the season, and enter the city via electronic turnstiles.

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Photos: The world’s largest and tallest observation wheel is set to open in Dubai

Dubai is adding another superlative experience to its already very long list of world record-breaking attractions.

The emirate is home to the world’s tallest swing ride, the world’s tallest indoor climbing wall, and the world’s tallest building, and as of October 21st, it will also be the location of the world’s largest and tallest observation wheel.

The observation wheel, dubbed Ain Dubai, will stand over 820 feet high, i.e. nearly twice the height of the London Eye.

Photo: Ain Dubai

The world’s largest and tallest observation wheel will offer 360-degree stunning views of Dubai from its three types of air-conditioned cabins:

Observation Cabins: the shared cabins will gives guests a chance to enjoy stunning views of the Dubai skyline and other iconic landmarks during a 38-minute rotation (including at sunset). The cost of a ride in an observation cabin starts at $35.50Social Cabins: social Cabins are shared cabins that include lounge access and beverages. The cost of a 38-minute ride in an observation cabin starts at $48Private Cabins: private cabins are where guests can experience top-notch exclusivity. Guests can opt for a celebration package for birthdays, engagements, weddings, and more. These cabins can be customized to cater for any event

“Ain Dubai offers first-of-its-kind experiences catering to all audiences including luxurious special event cabins; nightlife and party experiences; unique dining and culinary options; family-friendly cabins and customizable romantic experiences for special moments,” said Ronald Drake, General Manager of Ain Dubai in a press release.

Riders on the world’s largest and tallest observation wheel can choose to enjoy one rotation of approximately 38 minutes and up to two rotations of approximately 76 minutes.

Photo: Ain Dubai

Photo: Ain Dubai

Ain Dubai is set to open on October 21, 2021. To experience the world’s largest and tallest observation wheel, book your ticket now. You may be able to to be among the first people to enjoy sunrise in the world’s largest and tallest observation wheel.

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Why wing foiling is the hottest new watersport in a generation

The feeling of levitating over water while being powered by the wind is as incredible as it is addictive. Holding an inflatable wing and catching the breeze while standing on a board, with only an attached hydrofoil in the water — this is what winging, or wing foiling is all about.

If you’re unfamiliar with wing foiling, imagine a collision between a kitesurfer and a windsurfer. From the ensuing carnage, a sleeker and more user-friendly waterborne package that requires less wind to work emerges. Many kiters and windsurfers are forsaking their sports and taking up winging for this reason. Less equipment also means it’s easier to learn, as there are fewer things to think about and get tangled.

Moreover, the whole set up is travel-friendly – especially when compared to the size of windsurfing boards, booms, and sails, as well as the variety and bulk of kitesurfing kites, cords, and harnesses. With winging, you have a board, a foil, and a wing. Everything can be easily bagged and checked when traveling, and it’s all compact enough to fit into a small apartment and a rental car, no roof racks required.

When did wing foiling start?

NSP

As to when wing foiling started, you’ll be hard pressed to find a video with winging prior to 2017. And the first commercial wing was only released in 2018. Since then, the sport has seen rapid growth with various disciplines branching off. In late 2020 the first freestyle event was held where participants launched themselves and their equipment into multiple flip and spin combinations. People are winging on flat water in lakes and harbors, and when there’s swell in the ocean they’re doing long distance downwinders — going from one spot to another — following a coastline harnessing the wind and open ocean swells.

I spoke with four-time World Kite Surf Champion Keahi De Aboitiz, who uses Cabrinha gear, to get his thoughts from when he started out. “Winging has been an interesting one as I wasn’t sure how much I’d get into it in the beginning,” De Aboitiz told me. “But like a lot of people, I’m completely addicted and now it’s my go to activity for small waves. For me, the biggest allure is the same reason I got into foiling . . . the ability to ride tiny swells that you would never want to surf. The added benefit of winging is it allows you to get into a wave or swell much earlier with no more need for paddling!”

The beauty of hydrofoils is that they’re so efficient in creating lift, they don’t need a breaking wave to move — unlike surfboards. So unbroken, open ocean swells are accessible. Even without swell, the wing harnesses the wind which gives you speed and elevates the foil quickly. Whether it’s wind or swell, your speed is nature-supplied.

Is it easy to learn to wing foil?

NSP

Now, while this all sounds simple and straight-forward, there’s a bit of a learning curve. Well, a lot of learning curve to be honest. The wing can be awkward to manage when you first start out. And the act of balancing on a rising foil needs to be mastered.

If you don’t have a foil or foil board, a great way to get the feel of a wing is on a skateboard. That’s ideal if you have a large, flat and empty concrete area around. Schools, parking lots, and basketball courts are great options. Or if you have a lake, harbor, or area of flat water in the vicinity, use a standup paddle board (SUP). They’re stable and easy to get back onto if — okay, when — you fall off. Trying on an SUP will give you an idea of the power of the wing.

I had a chat with Aussie waterman James Casey — who offers winging tutorials and private clinics — about tips for beginners. “Beginners should start in stable wind conditions on flat water,” Casey recommended. “Start with a big board and medium-sized foil and take it step by step. If you can get out three days in a row in good conditions, you will get it. Cycling is a great cross-over to get your legs strong and surfing is a great way to learn to read the waves and conditions. Between the two you will be ready to foil.”

If you want to try wing foiling in the US, the Global Wingsport Association (GWA) has a list of the best places in the US. If you can take lessons, definitely do. The GWA also offers a list of wing foiling schools around the world. The quarterly Foiling magazine also has a free downloadable guide to wing foiling, and plenty of great coverage of foiling from around the world — along with gear reviews and heaps of info.

What equipment do you need to wing foil?

Cabrinha

Wings — They come in different sizes. Which size you use is dependent on your weight, strength of the wind and how buoyant (i.e; how many liters) your board is. The stronger the wind, the smaller the wing. Wing sizes generally come in three, four, five, and six meters. A four- or five-meter wing is suitable for beginners, covering an array of wind speeds from 10 to 30 Knots.

Despite the odd-looking size of the wings, they’re pretty simple to inflate. Depending on the manufacturer, they’ll have one or two bladders made up of the leading edge and the center strut. You’ll need a hand pump, as your lungs ain’t going to cut it.

Foils and boards — Hydrofoils are referred to simply as foils, and there are many different types of foils and boards on the market, from beginner to complete professional setups. If you don’t want to invest too much to start with, there’s a good selection of second-hand equipment already — a testament to winging’s rapid growth. Head online or to your nearest surf- or water-sports store. Wing-specific boards are around 4’6” to six feet in length. Start on a large one, about 30 liters more than your weight, then move down in size as your skills improve. NSP is a good place to check for a complete range of gear from beginner to professional.

Says Keahi, “I’ve taught a little bit of winging now and I find it really helps if you break it down into two sports. Trying to learn everything at once can be very difficult and can result in some sketchy crashes. But if you can learn the basics of a foil on an e-foil (electric foil) . . . it’s a lot easier to bring in the wing after that.” Continues Keahi, “A lot of people liken wing foiling to snowboarding in powder, as it has that same feeling of smooth glide and drawn out high speed carves.”

Is everyone going to start wing foiling?

NSP

As surfing lineups get ever more crowded around the world, winging is becoming an attractive option for those looking for their fix of water time and natural thrills. With 70 percent of the globe covered by water, the current winging boom has barely scratched the surface.

As for the future of winging? “I can see it continuing to explode in popularity as it seems to bridge the gap across a lot of sports,” says Keahi. “The people who never wanted to learn to kite are much more interested in winging as it’s a little cheaper and [requires] less gear. You can even wing in the snow [with a snowboard or skis, or on the ice with ice skates], or on a skateboard in the car park. For me, I like to use it as a tool for chasing bigger waves on a foil. It’s nice not to need a jet-ski to get to distant surf spots or into bigger waves.”

From the surf to flat water and from parking lots to snow and ice, the versatility and freedom that winging offers is just too much of an allure to ignore.

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The best Airbnbs in Copenhagen for the ultimate hygge experience

Move over, Disney World. Denmark is the happiest place on Earth. Copenhagen is home to world-renowned restaurants, fairytale-like architecture, and, of course, traditional smørrebrød. This Nordic capital buzzes year-round—yes, even on those winter days when the sun shines for about four hours total. (Because #hygge, right?) Here are the most gorgeous, convenient, and design-centric Copenhagen Airbnbs, with an extra dose of hygge.

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.

Luxurious, elegant, and comfortable living in the heart of Copenhagen

Photo: Airbnb

Though Copenhagen is relatively walkable (or bikeable), out-of-towners often prefer to stay in the Indre By (city center). Located about four minutes from Tivol — the world’s third-oldest amusement park — and mere steps from City Hall, this two-bedroom condo is dually ornate and luxurious. It boasts a full kitchen for travelers who want to cook for themselves. Hygge manifests in many forms in this apartment, but especially in the selection of modern artwork and the light seeping in from the grand glass windows. After a busy day exploring Copenhagen, guests of this Airbnb say they often unwind by sipping coffee on the property’s courtyard-facing balcony.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $276 per night
Two-night minimum

Book Now

Five-star, centrally located apartment fit for royalty

Photo: Airbnb

It makes sense that this 1744-square-foot Indre By property sits gracefully around the corner from Copenhagen’s King’s New Square (Kongens Nytorv) — because, heck, it’s a royal palace itself. This spacious and clean apartment sleeps eight visitors comfortably, with three bedrooms and two sizable luxury marble bathrooms. It is ideal for families or small groups looking for exemplary service on par with hotels — it’s professionally managed, has five-star linens and towels, and expansive views of downtown are found on the building’s rooftop terrace. Plus, guests vouch that even though it’s in the heart of the action, the apartment’s location four stories up is an optimal insulator from the city’s sleepless nightlife.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $456 per night
Three-night minimum

Book Now

Grand, city center loft perfect for reunions or bachelor/ette parties

Photo: Airbnb

This centrally located loft apartment comfortably sleeps ten guests in five separate bedrooms. The living area has a copious amount of space for communal meals and recharging post-city escapades. Its location near the King’s Garden and Rosenborg Castle is a plus for culture connoisseurs. And just steps from Copenhagen’s vibrant restaurants, bars, and nightlife, the apartment could be ideal for a bachelorette party or reunion. The commodious bathrooms even include a make-up space with a large mirror and great natural light — optimal for prepping before a big night on the town. And aligning with Denmark’s sustainability mindset, the apartment runs on renewable energy and minimizes single-use plastics.

Ten guests, five bedrooms
Price: $450 per night

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Light and spacious loft in Copenhagen’s trendiest neighborhood

Photo: Airbnb

Fifteen years ago, Vesterbro, now often compared to Brooklyn’s Williamsburg, was a seedy neighborhood you’d avoid after dusk. Today, partly due to gentrification, it’s one of the most desirable areas to live in, and off all Copenhagen Airbnbs, this one oozes atmosphere with just the right amount of history. And this light and spacious loft, refurbished in 2014, is a prime refuge in the center of Vesterbro’s unique energy. It has three fully stocked bedrooms (we’re talking towels, shampoo, hairdryer), making it convenient to rent with friends. Guests applaud the spacious and modern design, the proximity to cafes, and even the 94 steps up to the apartment — because, hey, it’s part of that healthy Danish experience.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $363 per night
Three-night minimum

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Urban oasis tucked into hip Vesterbro neighborhood

Photo: Airbnb

This tiny house is its own urban oasis tucked behind the buildings along one of Vesterbro’s young and trendy boulevards. With a fenced courtyard, it exudes a serene, secret-garden feel even though guests are just minutes from some of Copenhagen’s hottest new restaurants, bars, and tourist attractions. Guests enjoy the dual open-plan kitchen, the workspace area, and the exceptionally hyggeligt (cozy) bedroom. This quaint retreat would be optimal for an older couple or physically impaired traveler who wants to avoid unnecessary stairs.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $174 per night
Two-night minimum

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State-of-the-art Danish houseboat in a prime location

Photo: Airbnb

Denmark is a seafarer nation, and few experiences validate that history better than staying on a state-of-the-heart Danish houseboat on one of inner Copenhagen’s picturesque canals. A classic English broad beam built in Liverpool a few years ago, this revamped boat is furnished with the best Danish design and craftsmanship. Imagine waking up to the lull of the canal, in a bed made by a local cabinetmaker, or taking daily refreshing swims off the dock followed by a warm shower in a glamorous bathroom (with a Gebrit douche toilet). Happy guests report back that barges are much more unique and authentic than “boring hotels,” and this location is in the heart of the action, especially throughout summer. It’s the most unique of Copenhagen Airbnbs.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $198 per night
Two-night minimum

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Newly renovated Frederiksberg apartment optimal for families

Photo: Airbnb

Frederiksberg is the ultimate family neighborhood that doesn’t compromise convenience, as it is just minutes from top tourist attractions. Nicknamed “The Green Village of Copenhagen,” the district is home to the Royal Gardens, the Copenhagen Zoo, and copious leafy parks. And this newly renovated apartment, with two living rooms and two bedrooms, in the heart of the G-rated action, is ideal for families traveling with smaller children. Guests love that it’s near multiple grocery stores (home cooking, anyone?) and the metro. Many reviews also note that it’s spacious, light, spotlessly clean, and a definite bang for your buck.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $129 per night

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Tasteful nordic loft in fashionable Christianshavn

Photo: Airbnb

While the fashionable Christianshavn neighborhood sits just over the bridge from the Indre By, it’s saturated with its own unique history, which began in the early 17th century when founded as extensions of Copenhagen’s fortifications. Though many restaurants, bars, and boutique shops line the canal today, that old-world nautical charm persists in the cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. This renovated and uniquely designed Nordic loft is centrally located in Christianshavn and is described by guests as an efficient and thoughtfully modern treatment of a charming old building. It has two bedrooms (one of which is accessible by ladder), an open kitchen and dining area, a second-floor fireplace, and a large living room with views of the communal garden. Guests rave about the loft’s east-west-facing setup, which maximizes natural light.

Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $286 per night
Two-night minimum

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Sleek standalone two-story house by “The Lakes”

Photo: Airbnb

Mention “The Lakes,” the string of Copenhagen’s inner-city reservoirs, to a Dane, and you’ll immediately sound more local. Stay near one of the “The Lakes,” and you’ll be centrally located, just minutes from the inner city’s premier shopping, cafes, and dining. And this lakeside property is exceptionally unique—a standalone two-story house a few minutes walk from Copenhagen’s pulsating heart, Nørreport. Once horse stables, the property has been completely renovated and now includes lavish amenities such as heated bathroom floors and a sleek, freestanding soaking tub. The house epitomizes Scandinavian functionalism, with thoughtful design elements and high-quality furniture throughout. Between its fully stocked kitchen—we’re talking chef’s knives, wine glasses, and Royal Copenhagen plates—and speakers in every room, it is possible (and encouraged!) to stay here with a few friends, cook, and dance the night away. Talk about bringing the party home!

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $442 per night
Four-night minimum

Book Now

Charming three-bedroom flat in Copenhagen’s Medieval downtown

Photo: Airbnb

We all know Denmark’s history traces back quite some time (Vikings marathon, anyone?!), and one way to authentically experience these past eras is by staying in properties of unequivocal age. This charming flat located in Copenhagen’s Medieval downtown exudes a dual historical and timeless feel, standing stoic on the city’s oldest street and in stark dichotomy from the modern stores nearby. In fact, it dates back to 1730 and is bursting with character and relics of the past. The ideal stay for curious families, it has a living room, three bedrooms, and a kitchen for light cooking. The value for your money here cannot be beaten.

Five guests, three bedrooms
Price: $205 per night

Book Now

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Is it safe to use hotel WiFi? Here’s what the experts suggest.

It’s among the first things we say — sometimes to no one in particular — when we check into our hotel room: “what’s the WiFi password?”

Well, logging onto the hotel’s internet might not be as innocuous as it seems. It often lacks adequate security controls and privacy, making it a prime target for cyber criminals looking to steal your information. Does this mean you should be paranoid every time you use hotel WiFi? Absolutely not. But there are a few things you can do to keep yourself and your information safe while traveling.

This is what you should know about accessing hotel WiFi responsibly, according to a cyber security expert.

Is it safe to use hotel wifi?

Hotels confer a degree of security with and air of cozy comfort. Unfortunately, that doesn’t necessarily extend to the internet services hotels provide. That’s largely due to the public nature of guest WiFi, and the lack of appropriate privacy measures.

“Access to the internet via the hotel guest WiFi s usually public access with no security controls between guests at the hotel and those on the Internet,” says Ron Tosto, CEO and founder of the cybersecurity and compliance consulting firm Servadus Consulting. “That means anyone near the hotel can access the hotel network to monitor any traffic going to and from the internet. Every connected computer or mobile device is accessible for hacking.”

Logging into the hotel’s public WiFi might seem like a simple, almost automatic action, but doing so means exposing yourself to more than you might realize.

“Anyone choosing to connect their computer or mobile device to the hotel network gives the public direct access to the device,” Tosto says. “It starts the moment the device connects to the WiFi or on a wired network connection in the room.”

What about hotel WiFi privacy? Do cyber criminals target hotels or individuals?

It might not sound like cyber criminals would bother with hotels when there are so many hedge funds, banks, and oil companies out there as more enticing targets. In reality, cyber crime has been on the rise across the board — and that includes the hospitality industry.

“Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, bad actors have been increasing the number of attacks on businesses worldwide,” Tosto says. “The Verizon Payment Security Report indicates challenges with hotel security related to the payment card industry (PCI) or credit cards. This combination of poor security and rise in attacks has the hospitality industry as a whole at risk.”

So no, cyber criminals aren’t targering you directly and personally, but hotels are tantalizing for dragnet cyber crime — especially those that cater to business travelers. According to a recent PwC Hotels Outlook report, hospitality has the second-highest number of cybersecurity breaches after the retail industry, and an IntSights study found 13 “notable” data breaches in the past three years alone. Sabre Hospitality, for example, suffered a breach in mid-2017 that heavily impacted its reservation system.

How use hotel internet safely

There’s plenty you can do to protect yourself during your stay.

First, Tosto recommends avoiding entering your credit card information directly into the TV if you make a purchase through the hotel TV. Reputable hotels, he says, will never ask for payment information using equipment in the room, and should instead gather credit card details at check-in. He also recommends using a VPN (Virtual Private Network), which allows users to access a public network as if their computers were actually connected to private networks.

“The use of a VPN prevents anyone on the hotel network from seeing traffic sent from your computer and limits the ability of anyone who tries to access the computer remotely,” he says. “Business travelers should also keep their computers and mobile devices connected to the corporate network via VPN.”

He also recommends making sure the websites you visit are secure, and to not click on advertisements. You can check a website’s security status by looking for the green or closed lock on your web browser near the front of the web address.

You can also circumvent the need to use your personal device altogether by using the hotel’s equipment instead.

“If the goal is to watch Netflix or another popular streaming service,” Tosto says, “watch it on the TV in the room instead. Using the TV prevents the need to connect a personal device to the hotel network. If you travel often, it’s recommended to get a mobile hotspot such as a Jetpack, which supports multiple devices. For low-bandwidth tasks like checking email or surfing the web, just use the mobile hotspot feature of your mobile device. Or simply stick to data, given the excellent speed and widespread availability of 5G cellular service.”

So no, you don’t need to be fearful that hackers are lurking in the bushes outside of your Holiday Inn. The chances of being the victim of a cyber attack are small, and taking some simple security precautions make that risk even smaller.

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How to support local in Kansas City

All around Kansas City, you’ll see young and old alike sporting KC apparel, driving cars with bumper stickers supporting the Royals and the Chiefs, and touting KC gear and goods. Indeed, Kansas City swells with local pride like few other places.

Even travelers visiting on a short trip will experience just how tempting it is to get swept up in the KC spirit — and how easy. To feel the city’s pride and joy, to partake of the authentic, local side of Kansas City on your visit, here’s where to go.

WHERE TO STAY

Photo: Anna Petrow/The Truitt

Downtown Kansas City is seeing a massive resurgence, and some impressive boutique hotels have moved in to repurpose and revitalize some of the district’s most historic buildings. Crossroads Hotel has done up the former Pabst Brewing Depot, drawing in creatives and remote workers with sleek rooms and a rooftop beer garden. Hotel Kansas City, in the iconic Kansas City Club building, took one of the Midwest’s premier 19th-century social clubs and created an award-winning, bespoke lodging experience for its guests. And Hotel Phillips has added modern touches to a 1930s Art Deco structure that was once the tallest building in town.

You can’t miss the newest addition to the downtown skyline, Loews Kansas City Hotel, which pays tribute to the city’s railroad history in its restaurant and bar — and comes with prime views of the stunning Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts from its seventh-floor open-air terrace. Make sure to stop by Bar Stilwell in the lobby for a cocktail glass full of The New Midwest, a KC-made creation featuring Tom’s Town double-oaked bourbon.

For a more low-key local stay, try Southmoreland on the Plaza, an independently owned B&B set in a 1913 Colonial Revival mansion that’s within walking distance of the must-visit Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. A short hop to the north is The Truitt, a recently opened boutique spot in a historic home that’s been lovingly redone by a Kansas City couple.

To really get away from it all while still being within reach of the action, head to one of Suite Tea’s two glamping sites, which come with memory-foam mattresses, running water, and fire pits. Both are just a 20-minute drive from downtown but offer a true sense of escape.

WHERE TO EAT

Photo: Austin Walsh/Visit KC

Tangy, thick-sauced barbecue has been a tradition in Kansas City for more than a century, and it’s still mom-and-pop joints that smoke the best meats. KC has more than 100 barbecue restaurants on its roster: Get a taste of history and heritage at Arthur Bryant’s; go whole hog at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, set inside a gas station; eat in the parking lot outside the revamped Jones Bar-B-Q (as featured on Queer Eye); or sample the chef-driven plates at Q39.

While Kansas City is clearly known for its barbecue, that’s far from the only option on the menu. Get a taste of the produce of the Great Plains at The Farmhouse, which works directly with farmers in Kansas and Missouri; similarly, Westside Local features farm-to-table dishes sourced from small, local businesses.

Meanwhile, the gorgeous Fox and Pearl, a James Beard semifinalist, concentrates its local dishes around a live-fire hearth. And the intimate Antler Room combines Mediterranean, East Asian, and Midwestern flavors for a fusion you’ve likely never experienced (until you’ve dined here!).

WHERE TO IMBIBE

Photo: Chris Mullins/Visit KC

When 1920s Prohibition slammed shut bars around the country, Kansas City (under the influence of political boss Tom Pendergast) mostly flouted the law, and speakeasies and bootleg distilleries flourished. A similar energy is back in the air these days (this time above-board, of course) as new distilleries set up shop around town.

Originally opened in 1887, J. Rieger & Co. was forced to close when the 18th Amendment was passed, but nearly 100 years later it’s been resurrected by the founder’s great-great-great-grandson. Visit the distillery to pick up a bottle of their unique Kansas City Whiskey blend, which mixes aged whiskey, rye, and sherry for a deliciously smooth sip.

And you can barely walk a few blocks in central Kansas City without running into a local brewery, making for an absurdly easy (and highly recommended) way to explore. Top stops for beer lovers include Casual Animal Brewing Company, its newly expanded space festooned with plants, area rugs, globe bulbs, and wooden tables all enclosed by exposed brick walls. And don’t miss City Barrel Brewing Company, which specializes in “hoppy, wild, and sour” beers. Behind the bar is reclaimed wood from the gallery walls of the Nelson-Atkins, and the restaurant’s tables and chairs are made from Missouri white oak, as are their sour-beer foeder tanks.

Download the KC Tap Tour app, a digital passport, for a long list of breweries and to rack up rewards for visiting. It’s gotta be one of the most delicious scavenger hunts out there.

WHERE TO SHOP

Photo: Hammerpress

Now that you’ve toured the town, you’re ready to take home some Kansas City goods of your own. Head to one of the locations of Made in KC, a clearinghouse of locally made goodies of every description, from only-in-KC apparel and accessories to art and skincare. For quirky posters, stationery, and cards, stop by Hammerpress, a letterpress print shop and design studio in the West Bottoms that sells all its own creations. Nearby, Westside Storey sells clothes, pins, and stickers from more than 20 Kansas City-based designers out of a historic 1920s building.

To bring a literal taste of Kansas City home, make your way to Christopher Elbow, a decadently high-end chocolatier started by a Kansas City native who previously worked alongside chefs Emeril Lagasse and Jean Joho. Nab an assortment of hand-crafted chocolate pieces that are so beautifully decorated they’d pass as miniature works of art. Elbow also operates Fairway Creamery, where donuts and ice cream finally get the chef-style treatment.

And if, after your visit, you think you’re ready to make some KC barbecue on your own smoker, stop at Local Pig, a butchery that sources local and humanely raised meat, or Broadway Butcher Shop, a gourmet grocer beyond their incredible meat selection (and excellent sandwiches). Because here’s the thing: When it comes to Kansas City pride, you can absolutely take it home with you.

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Best ways to score a cheap flight upgrade for your next international trip

Looking to fly business but not take a second mortgage out on your home? Lucky for you, there are plenty of ways to upgrade a flight.

And no, despite how popular this theme tends to be, dressing well is not one of them. Maybe at one time, dressing the part when you were talking to the gate agent helped, but now thanks to the thousand-and-one ways to acquire elite status on airlines, the airlines are far less interested in your designer bag and way more interested in whether that bag has their branded credit card in it.

Unless you’re an elite with the airline, the chances of getting a free upgrade are slim to none these days. Just recently, my husband and I were upgraded on a cross-country flight from San Francisco to New York, thanks to a plane swap. While this situation is rare, it’s not luck. It was great planning.

Relying on a free upgrade is not a reliable way to secure a seat in the point end of the plane, but thankfully, there are a number of ways to snag a lay flat in an economical way.

From flying at off-peak times or days, avoiding basic economy tickets and regularly checking your “manage booking” tab for your flight you can secure incredible deals on your next flight.

Follow the steps below for your best shot to upgrade a flight.

Step 1: How to upgrade a flight — Find the right flight

Finding the right flight is critical. Booking a flight on a Friday night to Las Vegas is not going to land you any sort of upgrade. The biggest chances at an upgrade on any flight will be during off-peak travel times. In the Las Vegas example, a flight on a Wednesday morning is going to be a lot more likely.

Similarly, assess how many seats there are in business class. If you’re flying on a small plane or a plane that has just a few rows of business class, your chances are slim. This also applies to full flights. The closer to the travel date, the more “real” your chances become. If the flight looks fairly empty and there are a number of open business class seats, the airline is more likely to offer upgrades.

Look for premium routes from major hubs for the largest, more upscale planes. If you’re not seeing the type of inventory you’re hoping for with your favorite domestic carriers like United or Delta, check the inventory on international airlines like Singapore Airlines, KLM or Air France. Often, international airlines have massive wide body planes with huge business class cabins, particularly on important routes from their home country hubs.

Step 2: How to upgrade a flight — Book the right ticket

The second critical piece here is booking the right ticket. If you book a basic economy fare, you can’t expect a free glass of water, much less an upgrade offer. Basic economy fares are typically excluded from any upgrade possibilities. Think of it this way, the higher the cost of the ticket, the more likely you are to get a good upgrade offer.

Some important considerations are around fare classes and airline policies. There are some airlines that only allow one-category upgrades or bumps. So, if you book an economy ticket, you may only be able to upgrade to premium economy, instead of all the way to business class.

Step 3: How to upgrade a flight — Identify the right upgrade method

Now, assuming you followed our advice on booking the right ticket, you’re in a great position to be offered fabulous upgrades on your journey. Whether you upgrade using miles, credit card points or cash, we’re going to detail exactly where and how you’ll find these offers.

Upgrade a flight with points and miles

There are a few ways to upgrade to business or first class using points, whether it’s directly through the airline you booked with or through a third party like AmEx’s “upgrade with points” program.

When it comes to upgrading using airline miles, this is usually largely dependent on demand for the business class cabin at any given time. Upgrade offers on your reservation page can pop up at any time, starting the second you purchase that ticket, all the way up to check-in.

To check if your next flight has an upgrade offer, log into your account and access the trip details page. Typically, you’ll find any upgrade offers right at the top, like this Delta upgrade for my upcoming flight to LA:

Photo: Delta

When I initially purchased my ticket, this leg of the flight cost approximately $200 for a main cabin seat. The “Delta Comfort” seat (aka premium economy) cost over $300. This means at $19 or 1,900 points, I’m saving almost $100 by upgrading after I purchased my ticket. While this example is a small, somewhat minor one, you’ll find the same experience whether you’re on a one-hour flight or a 15-hour flight.

American Express also offers a program that allows cardholders to upgrade their flights using miles, even if they didn’t book the flight through the AmEx travel portal. They don’t have an extensive list of participating airlines yet, but it’s always worth a look:

Photo: American Express

If you have a flight booked on any of these airlines, there’s a chance you’ll have the opportunity to buy an upgrade to business class with your hard-earned points. Let’s say you found a crazy deal to Singapore for $450 from San Francisco to Singapore in Economy class. You may be able to upgrade to business class using your AmEx points. While the upgrade offers through this program vary extensively, most of the airlines they feature sell business class tickets in the $5,000+ range. The program can save you several thousands of dollars by using your AmEx points.

Upgrade a flight during online check in

Online check-in is a great time to secure a discounted upgrade. Upgrade offers at the point of check-in is often one of the last-ditch efforts by the airline to sell a business class seat and resell your main cabin seat for more money to desperate travelers. Think about it this way, maybe you paid $500 for your flight to Europe. If you get an upgrade offer of $200 to fly in business class, the airline can sell your economy class ticket to a desperate traveler for $1000+. Travelers looking for last-minute flights are more likely to book the $1000 economy ticket over the $5000 business seat. By upgrading to a higher class, the airline gets to increase their revenue by filling the cheaper economy seat at a higher price tag than normal.

As you go through the online check-in process, make sure to click into the seat map to see if they’re offering any great deals. It is not unheard of to find amazing deals for lay flat seats during check-in. This is particularly true for longer international flights on widebody aircraft with a lot of business class seating.

Using this logic, I was able to secure a $200 upgrade recently on AirFrance to Paris from San Francisco back in June. I’ve even heard stories where people have secured $50 one-way upgrades from NYC to Europe and $150 lay flat seat from Atlanta to Buenos Aires.

Upgrade a flight at the gate

Your last chance to get an upgrade is at the gate. While there are exceptions to this rule, the gate agent can sell upgrades to business and first class if there are open seats. Head to the gate early to inquire about upgrade pricing, and no, dressing well won’t actually help you secure it. However, what does help is being sweet and personable to the gate agent ;).

Often, if the cabin is undersold, they’ll offer great deals to fill seats. This is particularly true if economy class is oversold and they need to move people around.

Keep in mind, basic economy tickets are not upgradeable with just about every airline, not even at the boarding gate.

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How to make the most of your one-day visit to COSI in Columbus, Ohio

Despite being the biggest city in Ohio, Columbus is still vastly underappreciated. Most know it as home of the Ohio State University, but beyond football games it still flies a little under the radar. Perhaps its most underrated asset is The Center for Science and Industry (COSI), a massive, three-story, 320,000-square-foot hands-on interactive museum set in what was once Columbus Central High School. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the world of dinosaurs, ride a unicycle across a tightrope, and step into a street scene from 120 years ago all in the span of a morning.

With so much to see, figuring out how to spend your day here can be tricky. So we paid a visit to Dr. Frederic Bertley, the President and CEO of COSI and host of QED with Dr. B on Columbus’s WOSU (a National Public Radio station). He and his helpful team not only gave us an over-the-top COSI tour, but hipped us to the best stuff to see, and when to see it. So whether you’re planning a trip to Columbus, or live nearby and have been meaning to check it out, here’s how to crush COSI in just one day.

Before you go: The #1 piece of advice for visiting COSIThe best times to visit COSIWhere to start your COSI visitHow long you should budget to visit COSIThe five best things to do when visiting COSIThe five galleries you cannot miss when visiting COSIThree underrated areas you should visit at COSIWhat you can skip during your visit to COSIWhere to eat when visiting COSIBefore you go: The #1 piece of advice for visiting COSI

Because COSI’s offerings are so diverse — spanning 300 yards of exhibit space and three theaters — realizing what’s a priority for you is the most important thing you can do before you go.

“The first thing you should do is go to our website, check out the stuff, and pick your preferred things to do,” says Dr. Bertley. “People routinely tell me they spend five or six hours in the museum, and if you check out the website first you can really map out your day.”

Point is, make a plan or you’ll spend a lot of time wandering, and could miss some stuff you really wanted to see.The best times to visit COSI

Like a lot of educational museums, COSI’s busiest times are spring break — March and April — and during the summer. You’ll find the lightest crowds in September and October, also the best months to visit Columbus, as you’ll experience pleasant temperatures, changing leaves, and the excitement of college football.

Dr. Bentley says weekdays are the best time to visit, and early in the school year, you won’t have as many local school groups running through either. The earlier in the day you visit the better; he recommends any time before noon for starting your experience.Where to start your COSI visit

Photo: COSI Columbus’ Dynamic Hands-On Science Center!/Facebook

Where you start your COSI visit probably will depend on what you want to see most. And as the museum gets busier the later you arrive, doing your top attraction first is probably the best move. That said, if you just can’t pick a favorite, the Dinosaur Gallery on the first floor is a good default.

“The dinosaurs are the coolest asset we have in the building,” Dr. Bentley says. “That’s the gallery that fills up the quickest, so if you want to come through do that first.”

The dinos are conveniently located just to the right of the main entrance, so the gallery also makes for a logical natural starting point.How long you should budget to visit COSI

How long you spend at COSI really depends on how much time you have in Columbus. With 320,000 square feet of exhibit space, seeing it all is tough in less than a day, especially if you’re the type who likes to stop and read. But Dr. Bertley has seen all types of visitors, and offers some good advice.

“If you’re doing a whirlwind tour and visiting five places in the city, then spend two hours here at least,” he says. “But two hours, you’ll be struggling. I’d say plan at least three, but some people spend five or six. If you’re doing a three day trip, allocate that.”The five best things to do when visiting COSI1. High-wire Unicycle

If you’ve ever gone to the circus, seen someone ride a unicycle along a tightrope, and thought to yourself, “Oh helllllllllll nah!” you may want to rethink it. COSI’s 84-foot cable stretches across the museum’s main floor, allowing guests to revel in the thrill of performing a stunt with relatively low risk. You’ll be harnessed in for your ride, so no need to worry about falling. And even if you’re balance-challenged, a 250-pound counterweight keeps the center of gravity low so you won’t tip over.

2. Rat Basketball

As the name might imply, this daily animal show features a couple of Japanese Hooded Rats playing an intense game of one-on-one. To get an idea of how it looks, check out this video.

“You have to see it in real life,” says Dr. Bentley, who added that when he mentions the show to people outside Columbus they think he’s making it up. “It speaks to psychology and neurochemistry, and how you can train the brain even in animals to do all kinds of stuff.”

3. Mini-submarine

The Ocean section of the Center and Science of Industry is easily its best for interactive activities. The coolest among them is the mini-sub, set in a full room that feels like a life-sized research vessel. You can climb inside the submarine — which sits in bubbling water — then pilot an undersea ROV (remote operated vehicle ) to explore a world deeper than you could ever dive.

4. The Coal Mine Elevator

Step between rickety old doors and into a simulated coal mine elevator, which gives you the sensation of dropping hundreds of feet into the earth. It’s a tribute to the city’s coal mining history, which you’ll learn as part of the experience. This was such a popular attraction at COSI’s original location that when it wasn’t included in the new space, guests requested it so often that the museum brought it back as part of the Progress exhibit.

5. The Fart PianoYou might be rolling your eyes and groaning about the immaturity of a piano that plays musical fart noises. But we dare you to plunk out Mary Had a Little Lamb on this interactive experience in the Life section and not laugh uncontrollably.The five galleries you cannot miss when visiting COSI1. Dinosaur Gallery

Photo: COSI

COSI serves as a satellite site for New York’s American Museum of Natural History (AMNH), and perhaps the most alluring aspect of that partnership is the Dinosaur Gallery. Like AMNH, the gallery greets you with a full-sized T-Rex skeleton, then walks you through the methods scientists have used to learn about dinos. You can stand next to a Titanosaur’s thigh bone, which is taller than most humans. You can also step into a cretaceous habitat mock-up, and get an idea of what the world looked like when these animals roamed the Earth. Most interestingly, you’ll learn that dinosaurs didn’t so much go extinct, but evolved into birds we know today. A lesson taught with replicas of dinosaurs you recognize covered in feathers rather than scales.

2. The Ocean

Photo: COSI

Part Pirates of the Caribbean, part Caesar’s Palace shopping mall, COSI’s oceanic education section is far and away its most elaborate. Wander through a fictional shipwreck, turn a corner, and you’re met with a towering statue of Poseidon, and kids spraying water at him.

Beyond that, you’ll step into a mini-submarine and pilot a ROV around the ocean deep. Afterwards, make sure to check out the “lily pad” and watershed areas, the odd live animal exhibit in the museum with creatures endemic to the Central Ohio watershed. For those who just want to relax in The Ocean, find the headphones near Poseidon that play selections from

3. Progress

Saunter through city street scenes from 1898 and 1962 in this exhibit that chronicles how the world has changed in just the past century and a half. The street seems a little more like a movie set, with storefronts you can walk inside, a golden-age era TV studio where you can read 1962 news, or a turn-of-the-20th-century telegram shop where you can send an old-school telegram. Progress is also home to the COSI-favorite coal mine elevator, a simulation of descending deep into the earth like a gilded-age miner.

4. Energy Explorers

The most practically-educational area of the museum, Energy Explorers educates visitors on how their choices affect energy consumption on a large scale. It accomplishes this by having visitors create a character, who they then take through three zones of Home, Transportation, and Product. The simulation includes interactive activities like the Errand Race — where you see if driving or walking takes care of your to-do list faster — and a driving game to see how far you can get on a tank of gas. But most importantly it scores each character on how energy efficient their choices are

5. Little Kidspace

Photo: COSI

No, this area is not going to be for everyone. But Dr. Bertley also pointed out that along with the Dinosaur Gallery, this area fills up fastest. That’s because the Little Kidspace is a lot more than a glorified daycare center, with water activities, a farm, a treehouse, and a drivable ambulance for kids to explore. Just be sure to stay alert if you’re taking your little ones in here: flying plastic fruit is a common occurrence so keep your heads up.Three underrated areas you should visit at COSI1. National Geographic Giant Screen Theater

The IMAX is a time-honored science museum tradition, but in the era of streaming services, much like traditional cinemas, it’s getting more and more forgotten.

“We have incredible content on the largest screen in the state of Ohio,” Dr. Bertley proudly boasts. “We have lots of cool science stuff, lots of nature content, and a beautiful sound system.”

The theater is on the ground level and runs shows all day. It might take up a good chunk of your time at the museum, though, so if you do want to catch a show buy tickets ahead of time and plan your trip accordingly.

2. Gadgets Stage

This live-performance stage just off the Gadgets exhibit is a little like a live action Mr. Wizard or Bill Nye the Science Guy, right inside the museum. You’ll see live demonstrations of the power of science, running about every 15 minutes or so.

3. Art on the second floorThe hallways and vestibules of the Center for Science and Industry are filled with little mini exhibits teaching about everything from water pollution in Ohio, to the force of pressurized air. But up on floor two, you’ll also find all sorts of provocative modern art, quietly hanging on the walls next to the science stuff. Take a few minutes to check out the metal butterflies, spirals, and other works, and give the left side of your brain a break.What you can skip during your visit to COSI

No matter your interest, there’s really nothing inside COSI you could call a waste of time. Every room is an education, and if you’ve got a full day go ahead and do it all. That being said, not everyone has six hours to spend, and if you don’t, there are a couple of things you can probably leave off the agenda.

First though it is the largest planetarium in Ohio, COSI’s planetarium is….a planetarium. If you’ve been to one before, you don’t need to eat up a half hour of your visit learning about the rings of Jupiter again. It is a nice place to take a load off if your feet are killing you, though.

Photo: COSI Columbus’ Dynamic Hands-On Science Center!/Facebook

The space simulator, where guests can climb inside and get a virtual trip on a Mars rover, space capsule, or other rollicking celestial ride is fun. The line to do it, however, is not. And much like lines at theme parks this one isn’t really worth the payoff.

The rotating exhibits run the gamut from animation to a look at life in Cuba, but many of them might also be coming to a museum near you as well. Take a look at what’s on temporary display at COSI before you go, and if it’s traveling to your town, wait until it’s there.Where to eat when visiting COSI

While the Atomic Café at COSI is fine and gets the job done if your kids are screaming for a snack during the museum visit, Columbus’ North Market is a short walk away and offers a lot more options. We suggest eating there before or saving it for a treat after.

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These are the top 37 cities in the world for 2021

In the past couple of years, many have decided to pack up their belongings and move. But deciding on a new place to live in is not as easy and throwing a dart at a map and hoping it’ll all work out.

To make sure you choose your next home very carefully, Time Out has ranked the best cities in the world in 2021. To create this ranking, the publication surveyed 27,000 city-dwellers from around the world and asked them what living in their cities was like this year. Topics covered in the survey included food, culture, community projects, green space, and sustainability.

After compiling the results, Time Out ranked the best 37 cities in the world. Here are the top three:

San Francisco

Photo: Luciano Mortula – LGM/Shutterstock

Time Out explains that San Francisco got the top stop for the strong community spirits that emerged in the city during the pandemic. While the COVID-19 restrictions have been strict in SF, people stepped up to help their neighbors in needs in many ways, like the SF New Deal initiative which helped small businesses stay afloat during those tough times.

Amsterdam

Photo: Kavalenkau/Shutterstock

Amsterdam came in second place for its green spaces and efforts when it comes to sustainability. The city is home to Vondelpark the largest city park in Amsterdam and the most popular. According to the Amsterdam tourism board, Vondelpark is also “home to a selection of restaurants and cafés, including the Blauwe Theehuis, Café Vertigo, Vondelpark3, De Vondeltuin and the Groot Melkhuis. You’ll also find a skate rental shop, an open-air theatre and a rose garden with more than 70 types of roses in the park.” The fact that Amsterdam is has one the best museums in the world, Rijksmuseum, is another huge asset.

Manchester

Photo: trabantos/Shutterstock

Time Out ranked Manchester as third best city in the world in 2021 for its cultural events and creative vibe, as well as the all-around good-spirited people. The city was voted number one for the following category: ‘nightlife’, ‘creativity’, ‘community spirit’, ‘friendliness’, and ‘getting to know your neighbors’.

Here are Time Out’s ranking for the 37 best cities in the world:

San Francisco, California Amsterdam, NetherlandsManchester, United KingdomCopenhagen, DenmarkNew York, New YorkMontreal, Canada Prague, Czech RepublicTel Aviv, IsraelPorto, PortugalTokyo, JapanLos Angeles, CaliforniaChicago, MichiganLondon, United KingdomBarcelona, SpainMelbourne, AustraliaSydney, AustraliaShanghai, ChinaMadrid, SpainMexico City, MexicoHong KongLisbon, PortugalBoston, MassachusettsMilan, ItalySingaporeMiami, FloridaDubai, UAEBeijing, ChinaParis, FranceBudapest, HungaryAbu Dhabi, UAESão Paulo, BrazilJohannesburg, South AfricaRome, ItalyMoscow, RussiaBuenos Aires, ArgentinaIstanbul, TurkeyBangkok, Thailand

To learn more about the ranking, visit Time Out‘s website

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