Matador Network's Blog, page 610
July 27, 2021
11 magical Airbnbs near the towering trees of Redwoods and Sequoia national parks
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 the tallest trees on Earth with a visit to California’s coastal redwoods in Sequoia and Redwood National Parks. The Golden State is the only place in the world where you can view groves of these ancient conifers, and it’s worth traversing the northern part of the state to see a variety of these giant trees. Instead of pitching a tent in a national park, stay nearby in private luxury at these California Airbnbs near Redwoods National Park for couples, friends, and families.
1. A rustic underground hobbit house built into the mountainside
Photo: Airbnb
Adventurous travelers who aren’t afraid of roughing it will love this underground hobbit hole for two. Located in a remote, off-grid eco-village in Del Norte County’s Smith River Canyon, the property is accessible via the scenic Redwood Highway (CA-199). While running water is available, electricity is not, but candlelit nights make for a romantic outdoorsy getaway. The common kitchen and bath are shared with the community, but you’ll have a private sleep sanctuary on the round love nest bed.
This rugged experience isn’t for everyone, as roads to reach the destination are winding and rough to navigate. But if you make the trip, you’ll love exploring the forest, streams, and waterfalls of the surrounding forested land. Unwind after a day outdoors in the wood-fired sauna, or hang with the chickens, goats, dogs, and woodland creatures that call this commune home.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $61 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Enjoy easy access to the beach and magical redwoods with a coastal stay in this 1968 Airstream trailer near Arcata, one of the most charming Airbnbs near Redwoods National Park. Quirky styling and modern comforts make this Globetrotter trailer a comfortable place to hang your hat, and the small but robust kitchen is great for fixing home-cooked meals. There’s WiFi if you’re working from home, and an outdoor deck to relax on when the sun goes down.
The trailer is permanently parked near sandy dunes and a beach — a 30-minute drive to Redwood National and State Parks. While tiny, this retreat includes a queen and twin bed plus a private bathroom and shower. You can even bring along Fido for a $25 pet fee.
Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $99 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Why just see the redwoods when you can sleep among them? Hunker down amid towering coastal redwoods at this tiny house built from salvaged redwood and upcycled materials. Just follow a winding path through ferns, huckleberries, and giant trees to reach this woodland hideaway. Take in the sunshine on the reclaimed redwood deck, or warm up inside around a cozy propane stove. Thoughtfully designed to maximize space, this little house includes a kitchen, bathroom, little living room, and comfortable bed in the sleeping loft. This forest sanctuary is located in Crescent City, the gateway to Redwoods National Park and three state parks that protect these old-growth trees.
Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $113 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Take in views of the Great Western Divide and famous Sequoia National Park sights from this cozy Mineral King Guesthouse located just four miles from the park’s main entrance. Set among oaks and manzanita, the quiet property welcomes human and horse guests (just in case you’re bringing Mr. Ed along). Big bay windows showcase garden and mountain views, or stroll around the property to see the horses and rescue pups that call this ranch home.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $185 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Treat your crew to a view at Sequoia Heights, a three-bedroom cabin that sleeps up to six. Located 10 minutes from the town of Three Rivers, the modern home is the perfect retreat after a day of redwood exploration in Sequoia National Park. This modern retreat is perched on a hill, and its second-story deck offers prime sunset vistas over the Main Fork of the Kaweah River. Airbnbs near Redwoods National Park rarely offer such a striking sky view.
Once night falls, stare up at the Big Dipper through the provided telescope. Or head inside to Netflix and chill, or jam out to tunes blasting from the home’s Bluetooth speaker. If you’re “working from home” during your vacay, this cabin’s free WiFi is helpful since cell service is sparse. Little bonuses like included coffee, spices, and condiments make cooking for your crew a cinch. Brand new washer and dryer available if you need to launder clothes dirty from tromping through woods and waterfalls.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $263
Photo: Airbnb
Bringing a crowd to Sequoia National Park? You’ll love this recently renovated riverfront home for groups of up to eight people. Take in nature through glass walls overlooking the Kaweah River, or enjoy dinner with your group on the breezeway around a table made from a local redwood tree. Splash or fish in the river when the weather is warm, or play a round of volleyball at the net set up along the water. Enjoy s’mores and storytelling around the fire pit when the sun goes down. The four-bedroom three-bathroom space offers privacy and upgraded everything: new flooring, heating, cooling, beds, and accessories.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $415 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Bring Rover along to Sequoia National Park for a stay at this dog-friendly space just three miles from the park entrance. It’s set amid oak trees with a fenced-in yard where your doggo can play worry-free. Note: dogs are not allowed on park trails, but you can leave your pup behind while you play in the park. Or the host can point you to dog-friendly trails beyond Sequoia. Take a break from outdoor exploration and walk to the quirky town of Three Rivers to visit breweries, coffee shops, and stores. The guest suite includes a plush bed, fridge and freezer, microwave, toaster, coffee bar, and private bathroom.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $133 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Stay in the heart of the California redwoods, just a mile from the ocean, at this creekside retreat in the town of Orick. Expect comfortable temperatures, fresh air, and beautiful beaches near this six-acre property nestled between mountain peaks and towering trees. After a day of adventuring, relax in the Jacuzzi bathtub, sweat in the sauna, or simply roast s’mores around the outdoor fire pit. Inside the home, gather your group in the modern kitchen and dining areas, or find privacy in three private bedrooms that sleep eight.
Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $232 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Live the ranch life along the river at this spectacular river ranch cabin fit for two couples or families. Reachable only by a dirt road, Sequoia National Park’s gigantic trees are just 15 minutes away, but you can also go waterfall hiking, swimming, and boating on the ranch’s 380-acre property. Guests also get access to a mile of Kaweah River frontage for swimming and fishing. The private cabin has a full kitchen for dinners in, laundry machines for washing grubby clothing, and peaceful disconnection from the outside world.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $219 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Spend a night in this cozy cottage nestled on four-and-a-half acres of beautiful second-growth redwoods outside the town of Trinidad. It’s a small and simple cottage with three beds and everything you need to cook meals. There’s no TV, but WiFi is available if you’re WFH. Instead of sitting inside, explore outdoors on the property’s trails along the creek, grill on the barbecue, or just roast s’mores around the fire pit. Perfect for a family as it features a sleeping loft with a queen-size bed and a pull-out Murphy bed.
Five guests, one bedroom
Price: $156 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Experience modern luxury for your group at this luxurious redwood retreat that sleeps seven. Located two miles from the town of Trinidad and 20 minutes from Redwood National Park, it’s an excellent family basecamp for recharging after a day spent exploring outdoors. Relax your muscles post-redwood hike with a soak in the hot tub, or burn off extra energy shooting hoops on the basketball court. Inside the home is filled with books, a piano, and three TVs to keep everyone entertained. If you’ll be venturing onto the water during your stay, there’s even parking for a boat. Parents can rest their heads in a private master bedroom with ocean views while kids have a sleepover in a room full of trundle and twin beds. 
Seven guests, three bedrooms
Price: $450 per night
The post 11 magical Airbnbs near the towering trees of Redwoods and Sequoia national parks appeared first on Matador Network.
The top hotels for extravagant floating breakfasts and how much they cost
Floating breakfasts are the picnic lunch of the influencer era. By most practical metrics, they make very little sense. While a picnic requires you to sit uncomfortably cross-legged on the ground while swatting bugs away from your food (which hopefully isn’t blowing away in the wind), floating breakfasts take the inconvenience to a new level. Now offered by many luxury hotels around the world — most notably in Bali and Maldives — floating breakfasts have become hugely popular for their Instagrammable aesthetic, but add a watery question mark into the mix as well. What if someone cannonballs into the pool and your breakfast capsizes? What if you splash pool water onto your eggs? Influencers and luxury travelers don’t seem to care. The decadent optics of consuming fruit and toast in an infinity pool is simply too tempting to ask questions. They might not be the most practical, but they’re certainly among the most visually pleasing breakfast experiences. From Italy to Bali, these are the hotels known for their extravagant floating breakfasts and how much they cost.
1. The Four Seasons, Maldives
Photo: Four Seasons Maldives
The Maldives are known for their ritzy experiences curated to look as appealing as possible on the ‘gram. It makes sense, then, that one of the Maldives’ most luxurious hotels also has one of the most widely known and coveted floating breakfasts. The floating breakfast at Four Seasons Maldives comes highly recommended by Wendy, a photographer and creative director who has traveled to hotels all over the world.
“Imagine waking up in your villa and having a beautiful floating breakfast waiting in your private pool outside,” she says. “Their menu includes everything from a Maldivian sampler to fresh baked goods, eggs, waffles, freshly squeezed orange juice, mimosas and a tropical fruit plate.”
Indeed, the breakfast arrives in your pool on a designed tray full of Continental breakfast goods, including a bakery basket with a croissant, pain au chocolat, bread, toast, Danish pastries, roll and bagel. There’s also a selection of sliced tropical fruits, juices, marmalades, and of course, Mimosas. There’s also the option to order Floating Sundowners, if you’d prefer to take another meal in the pool besides breakfast.
Price: $65 per person
2. Chalet al Foss, Italy
Photo: Hotel Chalet al Foss and Hotel Chalet al Foss/Facebook
Floating breakfasts might immediately conjure images of paradisiacal islands, but they’ve made their way to some of Europe’s luxury hotels, too. Chalet al Foss, located in the Italian Alps, offers a floating breakfast rivaling anything you’ll find on an island vacation. Served in an infinity pool with a view of the surrounding Alps, the floating breakfast is available by prior reservation only for hour-long blocks. You must contact the hotel concierge to confirm availability.
The hotel also offers a unique “Foss Breakfast” in the winter, which is pretty much the complete opposite of the floating breakfast. The Foss Breakfast is served on a heated bed tucked into a snowbank for a wintry breakfast in bed.
Price: $153 for two people
Foss Breakfast Price: $130 for two people
Photo: Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana
Many of the world’s most decadent floating breakfasts can be found on the small Indonesian island of Bali, popular among vacationers and digital nomads for its beauty and affordability. At the Tanah Gajah resort in Ubud, visitors can enjoy a floating breakfast either in the main swimming pool or in your personal villa’s private pool, with goodies like fruit, eggs, coffee, tea, bread, and champagne served up on a wooden tray.
Price: $58 per couple for a floating breakfast, or $102 per couple for a floating breakfast with sparkling wine
4. Monte-Carlo Bay, Monaco
Photo: Monte-Carlo SBM/Facebook
Monaco is defined by its extravagance. Supercars zoom through the streets, billion-dollar yachts sit in the harbor, and scrambled eggs float on the water as if by magic. Ok, it’s not magic, it’s just one of Monte-Carlo Bay’s more extravagant offerings. The floating breakfast at this Monaco hotel allows guests to start their day in the sandy bottom lagoon, which winds between the hotel terraces and green islets. The floating tray comes fully stocked with bread and pastries, cheeses, cured meats, cereals, yogurt, juice, Veuve Clicquot champagne, fruit skewers, crêpes, hot dishes a la carte, a cooling towel, and your choice of newspapers. You must book 24 hours in advance to reserve the experience.
Price: $153 per person for hotel guests, $94 surcharge for additional non-overnight guests
5. Hurawalhi Resort, Maldives
Photo: Hurawalhi Maldives and Hurawalhi Maldives/Facebook
This is the Maldives’ second appearance on this list, and it’s well-deserved. The Hurawalhi Hotel offers a Floating Champagne Breakfast, which has quickly become a favorite among frequent travelers and influencers looking for a photo-ready culinary experience.
According to frequent traveler and digital nomad Olivia Living, the floating breakfast here is the best she’s ever had.
“While I initially presumed my seven-course dinner at the resort’s 5.8 Undersea Restaurant would be my most Instagrammable meal at Hurawalhi Resort,” she says, “I retracted that statement the following day. The intimate floating breakfast in the privacy of my pool villa took the cake (literally). Surrounded by a kaleidoscope of blues, I toasted with Taittinger Brut Champagne, consumed courgette and smoked salmon fritters with avocado salsa, and finished with a banana cake. What elevated this particular floating breakfast from others I’ve experienced was that I shared it with curious ocean critters below: nurse sharks, clownfish, and even a Hawksbill turtle.”
The hotel even describes the breakfast on its website as one with “envious photo opportunities.”
Price: $240 per couple
More like thisWhere to Stay7 desert hotels where you can truly get away from it allThe post The top hotels for extravagant floating breakfasts and how much they cost appeared first on Matador Network.
7 reasons to see Alaska THIS summer
For much of the summer, the sun barely sets on Alaska. That means there’s that much more time to revel in the state’s bigger-than-life landscapes, spot wildlife from birds to bears, jump between urban centers and pint-sized communities, sample the freshest seafood, and explore new, truly stunning locales.
Those long days can help you make up for some of the lost travel opportunities from the last year, too. In fact, Alaska checks a lot of boxes for travel in these uncertain times: It has vast landscapes where you might not see another person for hours; it’s likely different enough from where you call home that it feels like a true escape; and most importantly, it’s open right now. So while taking a trip to Alaska is a great idea any year, here are a few simple reasons why you should visit this summer.
1. Alaska’s natural areas are open to visitors. Wide open.
Photo: Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock
Nature is one of Alaska’s supreme attractions. And considering this is the largest state — bigger than Texas, California, and Montana combined — it’s hard to talk about the breadth of Alaska’s outdoors without using superlatives.
So, get this: The state has Denali (meaning “The Great One” in Koyukon-Athabascan), the highest peak in North America at 20,310 feet, as well as 17 of the 20 highest mountains in the US. It claims more than half the world’s glaciers, topping out at more than 100,000. The four largest US national parks — including the 13.2 million-acre Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, which is larger than the five smallest states put together — are found here. And there are roughly 34,000 miles of shoreline, aka more than the other 49 states’ combined. This means habitat for millions of shorebirds and marine wildlife literally surrounds the state!
All this to say, if you’ve been feeling pent-up and are looking for fresh air, open spaces, and some serious nature exploration, you’re in the right place.
2. This year, Alaska’s cruise towns are seeing fewer visitors.
Photo: Joan Vadell/Shutterstock
During “normal” summers, Southeast Alaska communities — Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway — are popular stops for cruise-ship visitors. But due to fewer large ships setting sail in 2021, Inside Passage towns are currently quieter.
And these communities pack in outsized fun, quiet or otherwise. Check out the lasting Russian influence and wander the Tlingit and Haida totems in Sitka; go brewery and distillery-hopping in Juneau, or don crampons for a trek on Mendenhall Glacier; learn the history of the one-time “Canned Salmon Capital of the World” in Ketchikan; and dive into Skagway and its gold-rush past. When you’re ready to move on, hop aboard one of the frequent ferries or book a flight to your next adventure on Alaska Airlines or another regional, in-state, or charter air service.
3. You’ll have as many wildlife encounters as human encounters.
Photo: Santiparp Wattanaporn/Shutterstock
From massive brown bears snagging salmon out of a rushing stream to gravity-defying whales breaching off the side of your boat, there’s never a shortage of incredible animal encounters in the 49th state, no matter when or where you visit. And though it’s entirely possible to spontaneously see moose, bears, eagles, puffins, wild sheep, salmon, and whales while you’re exploring Alaska, many businesses can help increase your odds:
Flightseeing companies run excursions to Katmai National Park and Preserve, where over 2,000 brown bears roam.Reindeer ranches and farms in Fairbanks and Palmer offer close-ups with these cousins of caribou.Day cruises can give you glimpses of orcas, humpback and gray whales, sea otters, sea lions, and massive sea bird rookeries.The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center near Girdwood at the start of the Kenai Peninsula and the Alaska SeaLife Center in the coastal town of Seward facilitate exceptionally educational encounters with the state’s various land and sea creatures.4. There’s exploration for everyone.
Photo: AlaskaDad/Shutterstock
Most experiences in Alaska have a maximum and a minimum when it comes to skill level and stamina. So no matter how much energy — and time — you have to burn, there’s likely an option that works for you and your group.
Those seeking something more relaxed can opt to stroll one of the state’s myriad well-maintained walking trails with a coffee in hand, bike along an urban greenway, hop aboard a wildlife-watching cruise or one of Alaska’s marine ferries, or maybe kick back on a scenic train ride. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more extreme foray into Alaska’s landscapes, you can trek along moraine-marked glaciers, ride in a helicopter to the summit of little-touched peaks and mountain bike down, kayak between floating glacial ice, or pack-raft through striking river canyons. Bring the kids, bring the grandparents — Alaska is an all-family affair.
5. The food doesn’t get any fresher.
Photo: CSNafzger/Shutterstock
Salmon and halibut and king crab, oh my! If you’re a seafood lover, Alaska is the right place for your taste buds. In much of the state — but particularly in coastal cities — restaurants boast menus with locally sourced salmon, halibut, rockfish, crab, shrimp, and oysters that are wildly dissimilar to what you can get back home, both in terms of quality and freshness.
Also, it doesn’t get fresher than catching it yourself. Throughout the state, guide companies take guests out to fish for halibut, cod, rockfish, and salmon off the coast, as well as trout and salmon in freshwater rivers and lakes. The captains have the gear and the local knowledge of dependable fishing spots that’ll help inspire your “It was thiiis big!” stories for years to come.
6. You’ll experience an entirely different American culture.
Photo: CREATISTA/Shutterstock
Roughly 20% of Alaska’s population is Indigenous, and the cultures of the 229 Federally Recognized Tribes can be seen statewide through languages, traditions, art, and more. Here are some ideas for your trip:
In Anchorage, stop by the Alaska Native Heritage Center or the Anchorage Museum to explore exhibits that encompass over 10,000 years of history.Up at the tippy-top of the state in Utqiaġvik (previously known as Barrow), visit the Iñupiat Heritage Center to witness cultural revitalization efforts and learn about this Arctic community’s hard-earned whaling legacy.Down in Kodiak, in Southwest Alaska, scope out 7,500 years of Alutiiq heritage at the Alutiiq Museum & Archaeological Repository.In Sitka, peek inside the Sheldon Jackson Museum to see traditional regalia, and then walk through the Sitka National Historical Park and among its dozens of traditional totems.7. Making the trip is so much easier than you think.
Photo: Martina Birnbaum/Shutterstock
We get it — the breadth of activities and the vast size of the state can be intimidating. But taking a trip to Alaska is easier than you might imagine, and it’s common for first-time visitors to comment how approachable it feels when you’re here — you quickly feel like you belong.
Even with travel ramping up, flights to Alaska are competitively priced and several airlines operate additional summer routes, making getting there even easier. The capital city of Juneau is just 2.5 hours from Seattle by air, while there are direct flights to Anchorage from many major cities, including San Francisco (4.5 hours), Denver (5 hours), Los Angeles (5.5 hours), Chicago (6.5 hours), and New York City (7.5 hours). And while you can plan everything yourself, you don’t have to. There are countless businesses — from small-vessel cruises to all-inclusive lodges to organized tours — that can customize your trip to make your grandest Alaska dreams a reality. This summer.
The post 7 reasons to take your dream Alaska trip THIS SUMMER appeared first on Matador Network.
July 26, 2021
This little-known program lets you eat for free at many airport restaurants
Airport food is undeniably expensive. Whether you’re hungry in between layovers or you’re going to be stuck on a flight with bad airplane food, it’s typical to bite the bullet and just pay the astronomical pricing for some chicken tenders and fries. But we’ve got a major travel hack to let you in on — if you join Priority Pass, you can skip all of that and get those expensive meals for free.
Many travel credit cards offer a free Priority Pass airport lounge membership, which gets you access to over 1,300 lounges. Once you join, the dilemma of whether or not to shell out to eat at the airport becomes a thing of the past. Priority Pass lounges typically offer free drinks and lots of snacks, which should fill you up before reaching your destination. However, even if the airport you’re at doesn’t have a lounge that is a member of the Priority Pass program, you are eligible for $56 off your meal — $28 for you and $28 for a friend — at many airports around the United States and beyond.
You’re going to need a card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite® Card to participate. Note that American Express cards that offer Priority Pass do not offer this deal. Once you have the card in your possession, sign up for the complimentary Priority Pass program through its website. Then, through this little-known travel hack, your bill at over 50 participating restaurants with locations in many large US airports will receive a major discount. Download the Priority Pass app and sign in with your account for airport maps and info on participating locations. Then, all you have to do is show up, place your order, and swipe your Priority Pass membership for the discount.
If you want to take advantage of this discount, however, you’re going to need to be comfortable making your way around to different terminals, as the restaurant you want (or the closest one that’s a member of the Priority Pass program) could be on the other side of the airport. You could also take advantage of this deal by popping around to several restaurants, getting $28 off per meal, with every swipe. Just be sure to tip for the original meal cost. Don’t cheat your server just because you got a discount.
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50% of Canadians live south of this line
Canadians have been amping up their hardcore ruggedness and tough skin for a few centuries, but the jig is up. The Great White North, as it likes to be called, is actually mostly empty of people because 50 percent of Canadians live in a tiny section of the provinces of Ontario and Québec that includes Toronto, Ottawa, and Montréal.
Youtube channel RealLifeLore tells it like it is, and explains that while most Canadians like to say they live much farther north than most Americans, it isn’t exactly true. About 70 percent of all Canadians live south of the 49th Parallel, the imaginary line that forms most of the border between Canada and the US. Even more upsetting for the Canucks’ image — most Canadians live farther south than all the people who live in Washington, Montana, North Dakota, and, of course, Alaska.
The final nail in Canada’s reputation is the fact that more Americans live north of Canada’s most southern point, i.e. Middle Island, than Canadians. How’s that for a reality check, eh?
Of course, there’s a very good reason for this population repartition: The climate. Most of Canada’s weather is extremely cold and snowy in winter, making for a very difficult lifestyle. According to RealLifeLore, the region that encompasses the cities of Windsor, Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal, and Québec City has richer and deeper soil than anywhere else in the country, allowing for the agriculture needed to feed the population.
But the weather and soil are not the only factors pushing Canadians to huddle around the Great Lakes. Geopolitical and geoeconomic reasons have led many Canadians to live near the long, strategic, and beautiful St Lawrence River.
RealLifeLore’s video has more about Canada’s population distribution. Remember these facts next winter when Canadians try to make you believe they’re tougher than you are.
The post 50% of Canadians live south of this line appeared first on Matador Network.
Dua Lipa stayed at the snake-shaped Airbnb featured on ‘The World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals’
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.
Singer Dua Lipa decided to take a break from her incredibly busy lifestyle and slither away to a vacation at an enviable destination.
Just outside of Mexico City, Quetzalcoatl’s Nest is no ordinary Airbnb — it’s an immense property shaped like the mythological snake Quetzalcoatl. Quetzalcoatl was an Aztec deity also known as “the feathered serpent.” Previously featured on this year’s The World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals, the extravagant property is quickly becoming one of Mexico City’s most recognizable.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by DUA LIPA (@dualipa)
Javier Senosiain designed Quetzalcoatl’s Nest, a large and unique complex of apartments. One of those apartments, suitable for six guests (four bedrooms, eight beds, and 3.5 baths), is available for rent on Airbnb for $355 per night.
Photo: Airbnb
Guests can wander the surrounding park with botanical gardens and lakes, and they should make sure to visit the property’s greenhouse that’s made of colorful stained glass for an unbelievable experience. Dua Lipa certainly looks like she enjoyed herself at this very unusual Airbnb.
The post Dua Lipa stayed at the snake-shaped Airbnb featured on ‘The World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals’ appeared first on Matador Network.
The difference between single malt and blended Scotch whisky
When it comes to countries famous for whiskey (or whisky if you’re outside of the US and Ireland), few can match up to the reputation and history of Scotland. The first recorded production of Scotch dates back to 1494, when King of Scotland James IV declared monks were allowed to make aqua vitae (“water of life”) in the financial Exchequer Rolls. A lot has changed since then — in fact, you probably wouldn’t recognize that spirit as whisky in a modern sense.
Today, Scotch brands are some of the most recognizable in the world. Names like Johnnie Walker, Macallan, and Dewar’s can be found in the back bars of just about everywhere. Then there are the names that are hard-to-pronounce from an American perspective that are no less loved, like Laphroaig, Bunnahabhain, and Bruichladdich.
The many (many) options of modern Scotch can be broken down into two categories: blended Scotch or single malt.
All Scotch must be made and matured entirely in Scotland from water, malted barley, whole grains, and yeast, according to the Scotch Whisky Association. Sometimes the barrels previously held bourbon before being used in Scotland, sometimes sherry, and sometimes something else entirely, but the spirit is always aged for at least three years.
What is single malt Scotch?
Photo: Bowmore
Single malt Scotch comes from a single distillery. It uses only a mash from malted barley that’s distilled in a pot still with no distillates from other cereal grains (more on that when it comes to blended whiskies). Single malt doesn’t mean that there’s not some blending going on, however, as single malt isn’t just from one year’s harvest of barley or one barrel (the latter would be labeled as a single barrel). The blending instead is a blend of solely malted barley from one distillery.
The flavor you’ll get from a single malt Scotch whisky is a concrete expression of what a distillery makes. That means getting a distinct bottle, but it also means a lot of variation between brands. In general, you can somewhat know what to expect in terms of flavor depending on which part of Scotland the distillery is located.
There’s Highland, which is in the north of the country and typically has smoky and full-bodied whiskies, like Glenmorangie and Ardmore. Below that region is Lowland, which typically has whiskies with less of a smoke flavor but plenty of herbaceous and sweet honeysuckle notes. Glenkinchie and Auchentoshan are two notable Lowland distilleries. The Speyside region in the northeastern part of Scotland is known for fruity whiskies with only a little smoke influence at most from distilleries like Glenlivet, Glenrothes, and Glenfiddich. The Isle of Arran is a small island off the western coast of the Scottish mainland with a few distilleries, most notably Arran Single Malt Whiskies.
Then there’s Islay, which is famous for full-bodied and powerful whiskies with lots of smokiness from the peat used to dry the barley. Islay single malts are some of the most popular single malt Scotch whiskies because of the big flavors in each bottle. Bowmore, Laphroaig, Lagavulin, Ardbeg, and Bruichladdich all make notable whiskies that are true to the peaty smoke and layers of flavor that Islay is famous for.
What is blended whisky?
Photo: MarinaTr/Shutterstock
Single malt Scotches may get the most attention from whisky fans, but the vast majority of Scotch that people drink is blended — as much as 90 percent, by some measures. A blended whisky is exactly what it sounds like: a mix of multiple whiskies put together to achieve a flavor profile that highlights certain flavors. Unlike the blends in a single malt that come from a single distillery, however, blended Scotch uses whisky from multiple distilleries to create a balance of flavors.
Another thing that sets blended Scotch apart from single malt is the use of grains other than barley like corn, rye, or wheat. The malt and grain whiskies together make the final flavor profile. The most famous blended Scotches come from Johnnie Walker, Dewar’s, J&B, and Chivas Regal. These blends are often made from a mix of distilleries from around Scotland that also release single malts.
It takes a skilled master blender with a nose and palate for creating consistent blends to make a good bottle. Each master blender has a tall task — Johnnie Walker blends can use whiskies from more than two dozen distilleries owned by the brand’s parent company Diageo.
Regardless of whether you’re drinking a single malt or a blended Scotch, one thing is true: You’re always getting a taste of Scotland.
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Kansai is one of the most underrated regions of Japan. Here’s why.
Almost all travelers to Japan visit Kyoto — and it’s no wonder why, given its millennia of history and timeless scenery on offer. Whether you’re strolling amid the ancient temples of Higashiyama or through the cinematic bamboo groves of Arashiyama, few places represent Japan more iconically than its erstwhile capital.
On your next trip to Japan, think of Kyoto not (just) as your destination, but as the place where new journeys begin. Take advantage of the city’s central location within the Kansai region to discover lesser-known treasures of western Japan. Even if you hadn’t heard of the region before you stumbled upon this article, it’s a name you won’t soon forget. Kansai is the cultural, natural and spiritual heart of Japan, with a diverse array of attractions and experiences. From the towering Himeji Castle, futuristic Osaka, to the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, here’s some of the highlights in the Kansai region of Japan.
How long should you spend in the Kansai region?Assuming you spend between two to three days exploring Kyoto-proper, as most travelers do, we’d recommend devoting around a week of your trip to the Kansai region. Some travelers will choose to base themselves in Kyoto the entire time, visiting all surrounding destinations as day trips, be they individual attractions or huge cities.
Other travelers take a slightly different approach, spending a few days in (and take a few day trips from) Kyoto, then migrating to a different destination in Kansai for the rest of their time in the region. For example, many visitors to Japan enjoy the contrast of Osaka’s neon lights and bustling, urban energy after a few days in comparatively quieter Kyoto. From destinations to cultural spots, here are some of the highlights of the Kansai region.
1. Nara
Photo: NH/Shutterstock
Nara has gained fame among visitors to Japan for two primary reasons. In addition to its large and photogenic population of urban deer, it’s also home to some of Japan’s oldest surviving wooden architecture, including the Tofuku-ji five-story pagoda, and Todai-ji, which houses Japan’s largest bronze Buddha. Accessible in less than an hour from Kyoto by train, Nara is an easy half or full-day trip. Nara is beautiful year-round, but particularly amid late November’s autumn colors and the cherry blossoms of early April.
(TIP: If you want to further supercharge your Nara day trip, stop in the tea-producing city of Uji on the way back. In addition to enjoying a fresh cup of matcha, you can visit Byodo-in, the temple pictured on the back of the ten yen coin.)
2. Himeji Castle
Photo: Pajor Pawel/Shutterstock
First constructed in the 14th-century under the patronage of a local Samurai lord, Himeji Castle is today Japan’s most iconic (and arguably its most beautiful) feudal castle. Its current construction, which reflects expansive renovations during the 17th century, centers upon its highest tower or tenshu, one of only 12 that still stand intact. Himeji Castle is particularly famous during cherry blossom season when hundreds of trees planted within its walls and around its moat provide a pink frame for its white facade, which has earned it the nickname “Heron Castle.” Himeji Castle is around an hour west of Kyoto, in Hyogo prefecture and can be reached via Shinkansen bullet train.
3. Lake Biwa
Photo: beeboys/Shutterstock
Another great place to see castles near Kyoto is along the shores of Lake Biwa, just east of the city in Shiga prefecture. The lakefront castles of Nagahama and Hikone (the latter of which, like Himeji, features an original tenshu) are especially appealing. Other attractions around Lake Biwa include the old merchant town of Omihachiman, the “floating” torii gate of the Shirahige Shrine and Enryaku-ji temple. The temple is perched atop Mt. Hiei, which towers between Kyoto and Shiga.
4. OsakaPhoto: Richie Chan/Shutterstock
The massive city of Osaka is, along with Kyoto, the nucleus of the Kansai region. Located around 30 minutes southwest of Kyoto by train, Osaka is diverse and cosmopolitan. You can begin the day at spiritual Shitenno-ji temple, have a picnic lunch beneath towering Osaka Castle and end it eating street foot amid the strobing lights of Dotonbori pedestrian streets. While some travelers prefer to stay in Osaka for a few days instead of just visiting on a day trip, its proximity to Kyoto makes either of these options easily doable.
5. Kyotango
Photo: Extarz/Shutterstock
Although Kyoto city sits reasonably close to the sea, few travelers realize that Kyoto prefecture is actually home to beautiful beach scenery, specifically in the Kyotango region which is located about two hours north of Kyoto Station via limited express train. Upon arriving here, a multitude of options await you. During colder months when swimming is not necessarily possible, you can marvel at the Amanohashidate “Bridge to Heaven,” which locals say resembles a dragon, or take a boat trip through the traditional funaya houses (boathouses) of Ine Fishing Village. If the weather is warmer and sunnier, set your towel out on the golden sands of Kotohikihama or Sunagata beaches.
6. Kobe
Photo: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock
One quirky fact about Kobe is that while this city is known around the globe for its beef, the cows are actually raised on outlying Japanese islands such as Awaji and Oki and take their name after having been slaughtered in Kobe. With this being said, a luxurious Wagyu dinner (ideally served Teppanyaki style) is far from the only thing to do in Kobe. The city is home to Japan’s largest Chinatowns, Nankin-Machi, which is an exciting cultural experience. Another must-see is Kobe Port Tower, which lights up at water level and the ropeway up Mt.Rokko which treats visitors to a view over the cityscape.
(TIP: Since Kobe sits between Kyoto and Himeji, a great all-day trip involves spending the morning at Himeji Castle, then stopping in Kobe for the afternoon and/or evening on the way back.)
7. Mt. Koya and the Kumano Kodo
Photo: cowardlion/Shutterstock
Kansai’s hilly topography makes it perfect for hiking, particularly in spiritual Wakayama prefecture which sits between two and three hours from Kyoto by train. Here, you have two basic choices. Most travelers head to Mt. Koya, an esoteric Buddhist settlement founded in the 8th century by a Kyoto monk known posthumously as Kukai. You can hike all the way to the top from Kudoyama station, or ride a funicular railway up and traipse amid the Danjo Garan temple complex or through the mysterious Okunoin cemetery. Another option is to hike along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage, a multi-day route that snakes through the mountains, starting on the western end of the Kii peninsula in Kii-Tanabe and ending out east in Shingu, the closest city to the stunning waterfall pagoda of Nachi Taisha shrine.
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The most amazing camping spots near Sydney that you won’t want to leave
Most travelers in Australia visit Sydney. Luckily for nature-lovers, Sydney is surrounded by lots of national parks that are perfect for hiking and camping. From the untouched beaches of Bouddi National Park, to the vast valleys of the Blue Mountains, to the crisp, cold waterfalls of the Southern Highlands, this area of New South Wales is bursting with nature’s beauty.
Australians generally love spending time outdoors, and camping is a very popular pastime among locals and travelers alike. Most of the national parks in NSW have amazing campsites for a weekend away. Some of them even have barbecues and hot water showers. So if sleeping between the eucalyptus trees and waking up to the songs of kookaburras and cockatoos sounds like fun, here are a handful of the best camping near Sydney. Each of these campsites are within a three-hour drive of the city. It would be wise to plan your camping trip at least a week in advance so the campsites don’t sell out. In the busy summer months of December to February, plan two weeks to one month in advance.
It is important to note that all campsites in NSW require a booking due to COVID-19. While we’ve listed our very favorite from among several amazing campsites, you can find the full extensive list of campsites at NSW National Parks website.
Royal National Park
Photo: KarenHBlack/Shutterstock
This is the easiest camping spot to reach from Sydney. The Royal National Park is located directly south of the city, so it’s less than a one-hour drive.
Once you arrive, you’ll get to soak in some of the most incredible coastal views in New South Wales. You’ll find jagged white cliffs, naturally symmetrical rock pools, and waterfalls that tumble into the sea. The entire length of the coast has a walking trail, so you can spend a few days hiking along the coast and camping at North Era Campground.
North Era Campground
North Era Campground is the only official camping spot along the coast of the Royal National Park. It is very remote, reachable only by a 30-minute hike. Park at Garie Beach, then carry all your supplies along the walking trail to the south. Once you climb over the big hill, you’ll forget about all the huffing and puffing you’ve just done because you’ll be looking at the serene little oasis of North Era Campground.
Just down the other side of the hill is a smooth patch of grass framed by forest on one side and ocean on the other. The campsite is just a free-for-all, with no numbered sites or rules. Set up your tent anywhere you like. But keep in mind, there are absolutely no facilities here so you’ll have to pack all your own water and food.
After setting up camp, enjoy having no responsibilities and no connection to the outside world. There is no phone reception, and in my experience, the campground is usually pretty empty. Spend the day snorkeling, swimming, and walking along the rocky coastline. Spend the evening foraging for firewood in the woods and then enjoy a campfire on the beach. Fall asleep to complete silence, except for the soft sound of waves lapping the shore.
Fee: $12 entry fee to park at Garie Beach. This campsite is so remote that you don’t really have to book in advance, but if you want to you can via the NSW National Parks website.
Facilities: None
Photo: VarnaK/Shutterstock
Another one of the best places to camp near Sydney is the Blue Mountains. The air here is incredibly crisp and clean, the scenery is lush and wild, and the campgrounds are free and easily accessible. The Blue Mountains are just a one- to two-hour drive west of Sydney, and the area is divided into smaller sections. In my opinion, the two best areas are Katoomba and Blackheath.
Katoomba is the most popular and touristy area of the Blue Mountains, but that shouldn’t deter you from staying here. Katoomba is a charming town full of adorable cafes and nice restaurants. And the natural scenery here is popular for a reason.
From the towering rock formations of the Three Sisters, to the triple-tiered, 614-foot-tall Wentworth Falls, to the magical and peaceful Leura Cascades, there is no shortage of natural attractions and photo opportunities near Katoomba. Combine the sights with an amazing weekend of camping in the area and you’re sure to fall in love with the Blue Mountains.
Murphys Glen Campground
Though Murphys Glen Campground is a 30-minute drive east of Katoomba, it is one of the best camping spots in the area. It doesn’t have many facilities, but that is all part of the off-grid experience. In the Blue Mountains, many campgrounds require a hike. But this one is just over a half-mile walk from the parking lot. You’ll still want to pack light, but the serenity you’ll find at Murphys Glen Campground is worth the walk.
With a wide and flat camping area padded with leaves from the surrounding trees, it’s easy to find a comfortable spot to set up a tent. My favorite thing about camping in the Blue Mountains is the abundance of stars, which are always visible on clear nights due to the lack of light pollution.
Fee: $6 booking fee, book online here.
Facilities: Toilets only
Ingar Campground
Ingar Campground is very close to Murphys Glen Campground, so the scenery and proximity to the best Blue Mountains attractions are similar. The main difference is that Ingar Campground is not easily accessible to vehicles, and it is set on the banks of Ingar Creek. If you’re looking for a very remote place and you love hiking, this may be the campground for you.
You’ll have to park your car on Queen Elizabeth Drive and then hike six miles along the Ingar Trail with all your gear. When you arrive, you can have a fire and eat your meals at the wooden picnic tables. Swim in the creek and treat your body to an invigorating dose of cold water. In the hot, dusty, Australian summer, this swimming hole feels like heaven.
Fee: $6 booking fee, book online here.
Facilities: Fire pits and picnic tables
Photo: Phillip Wittke/Shutterstock
This western area of the Blue Mountains has just as many breathtaking views as Katoomba, but it’s less touristy. Blackheath is a quiet town with some colorful street art, a handful of cafes, and an antique shop. The surrounding wilderness has some of the best hiking trails and lookout points in the Blue Mountains.
Blackheath Glen Reserve
Located just an 11-minute drive away from Blackheath, this campsite feels much more isolated than it actually is. It’s very easy to reach; all you have to do is drive along Megalong Road until you reach the turnoff for Blackheath Glen Reserve. Park in the dirt parking lot, then set up camp anywhere in the grassy, tree-shaded area. The camping spots aren’t labeled, and you don’t need to walk far from your vehicle. So this is one of the most convenient and accessible camping spots in the Blue Mountains.
Once you’re all settled in, you get to spend the night in the heart of the Megalong Valley. Listen for the squawking of cockatoos and gaze up at the stars. Make a small campfire and roast marshmallows. You may find a few other campers here, who are most likely outdoorsy locals preparing to do some hiking around Blackheath. This is the perfect place to camp before a day of hiking the Grand Canyon Trail or visiting attractions like Govett’s Leap Lookout and Pulpit Rock.
Fee: Free. There is no prior booking available, but you can visit this website for more info.
Facilities: None
Photo: Mona K-R/Shutterstock
About 1.5 hours north of Sydney on the Central Coast of NSW lies Bouddi National Park. Known for its unique rock formations made of layered sandstone, its flora and fauna, and its lengthy, coastal hiking trail, Bouddi National Park is an amazing getaway from the city.
Bouddi National Park is stunning at all times of the year. In the winter, it’s common to see whales breaching off the coast as they migrate along eastern Australia. In the spring, you can inhale the sweet scent of wildflowers as you hike through the forest. And in the summer, when Australians really seem to come alive, you can enjoy the social atmosphere around the communal campsite barbeques. Grill some food, drink a few cold beers, and chat with some friendly locals around the “barbie”.
Putty Beach Campground
This is the ideal campground for anyone who wants to complete the five-mile Bouddi Coastal Walk. The famous hike begins right at Putty Beach, so it’s convenient to camp near the start of the trail. With 20 campsites in total, this campground has a social vibe where everyone is laid-back and friendly. The parking lot is also right beside the grassy campground, so you won’t have to walk more than a minute to your site.
Putty Beach Campground is extremely organized and well-equipped. You have all the amenities you could need, and the campground is just steps away from the beach. So after swimming and surfing all day, you can shower and cook dinner easily before falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing. Just watch out for the bush turkeys who like to wander through the campsite and scavenge for food.
Fee: $34 for two people
Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables, barbeques, drinking water, outdoor beach showers
Little Beach Campground
A more secluded camping option in Bouddi National Park is Little Beach Campground. With only six campsites and fewer facilities than Putty Beach Campground, it will leave you feeling more immersed in nature. Make sure you bring all your own water as there is none available here.
The campground is set in a little cove next to the shores of Little Beach. You have to park your car at the end of Grahame Drive, then walk a half-mile to reach the campground. This is the ideal camping spot for those who just want to surf, swim, fish, and relax by the ocean. You can start the day with a refreshing sunrise swim, and end it with a peaceful sunset walk along the coast.
Fee: $34 for two people.
Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables, barbeques
Visit the NSW National Parks website to book a campsite in Bouddi National Park.
Wollongong Area
Photo: By Christopher Meder/Shutterstock
The Wollongong area is one of my favorite places in Australia. The city of Wollongong is multicultural and exciting, and it’s surrounded by mountains and beaches. Just north of the city is a string of charming beach towns that continue up until the Royal National Park. Each town is peaceful but full of trendy cafes and bustling weekly markets.
A beachside cycle path stretches along the coast, starting in the town of Thirroul and running 10.5 miles until Wollongong. The Illawarra Escarpment sits on the western edge of the towns, providing gorgeous lookout spots and challenging hiking trails. The Wollongong area is just one hour south of Sydney, so it makes a fun and scenic day trip. But if you’d like to extend your visit here and further explore the area, there is a stunning campground that I recommend.
Coledale Beach Campsite
This is easily one of the nicest camping spots near Sydney. Drive south of the city along the Grand Pacific Drive. You’ll pass some fantastic lookout points such as Bald Hill Lookout, and you’ll drive over the famous Sea Cliff Bridge that juts out from the cliffs over the ocean. If the drive itself wasn’t beautiful enough, you’ll be amazed when you reach Coledale Beach Campsite.
Coledale is one of the lovely towns in the Wollongong area. It is home to some cute cafes, a classic Aussie pub, and a few small local shops. And on the fourth Sunday of every month, the town hosts the Coledale Markets which are full of stalls selling vintage clothes, artwork, homemade treats and trinkets, and other goods.
Coledale Beach is a small but stunning stretch of golden sand. It is also a popular surfing spot among beginner and experienced surfers alike. Lining the grass next to the beach are powered and unpowered campsites. You can drive straight into your campsite, so it’s ideal for those with vans or RVs.
Fee: Powered sites cost $36 for two people for Friday and Saturday night (there is a 2-night minimum). Unpowered sites cost $30 for two people. The prices increase slightly during the busy summer months. Visit the website and book online here.
Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables
Photo: Juergen_Wallstabe/Shutterstock
Jervis Bay is a territory in NSW about three hours south of Sydney. Of all the best camping spots near Sydney on this list, this one requires the most traveling. But, it is undoubtedly worth the journey.
As a popular tourist destination in Australia, Jervis Bay is home to exquisite beaches, local wildlife, and a few fun little towns like Vincentia and Huskisson. Hyams Beach is the most famous spot in the area because it is claimed to have the whitest sand in the world. The White Sands Walk is an easy walking trail that passes Hyams Beach, as well as a few other beaches. Every single beach looks like something out of a postcard, with glistening white sand and clean turquoise water framed by forest.
Aside from being visually stunning, Jervis Bay is a great spot for activities like whale-watching, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, fishing, hiking, and bird-watching. It is the perfect weekend getaway from Sydney, and there are a few camping spots that will make your adventure more exciting. Booderee National Park is the local protected wilderness area in Jervis Bay, and all the campgrounds are within the borders of the park.
Bristol Point Campground
Just south of the famous Hyams Beach is a peaceful campground known as Bristol Point. It is a 50-yard walk from the parking lot to the campsites, so you have to carry in all of your gear. Once you arrive, you’ll find a sandy campground surrounded by massive trees. The campsite is very well-equipped, with fireplaces and barbecues, and even hot showers.
You’ll be camping just steps away from two breathtaking beaches, Bristol Point and Green Patch. The ocean near Bristol Point is often calm and flat, as the Jervis Bay peninsula curves and blocks most of the wind and swells. With crystal clear, shallow water, people of all ages can enjoy the beaches near Bristol Point.
Fee: Prices vary based on seasons and campsite size. Check prices on the Booderee National Park website booking page.
Facilities: Toilets, drinking water, hot and cold showers, fireplaces, and barbeques
Cave Beach Campground
For more dramatic views than the quiet and relaxing Bristol Point Campground, stay at Cave Beach Campground. This campsite is a bit more rugged and remote, so it’s less ideal for families. But for adventure-seekers who want to spend a weekend listening to the crashing waves, the rustling of the Tea Trees, and the squawks of the cockatoos, this is the place to camp. It is a 300-yard walk from the parking lot to Cave Beach Campground, and it’s a one-minute walk from the campground to Cave Beach. The beach has Jervis Bay’s signature soft white sand, but the edge of the sand is home to some rocky cliffs and even an actual cave to explore.
Fee: Prices vary based on seasons and campsite size. Check prices on the Booderee National Park website booking page.
Facilities: Water, toilets, showers, sheltered gas barbeque area, wood barbeques
Photo: Taras Vyshnya/Shutterstock
Two hours south of Sydney lies the Southern Highlands, a lush, green area full of forests, waterfalls, vineyards, and small towns. About 30 minutes inland, the Southern Highlands offers travelers from Sydney a different sort of landscape from the popular beachside campgrounds and coastal national parks.
The little towns in the Southern Highlands, such as Bowral and Robertson, are home to adorable local craft and antique shops as well as authentic Aussie eateries. In the rolling hills around the towns, you’ll find lots of vineyards and wineries. Full of dense forest, towering cliffs, and rivers, the Southern Highlands also have lots of swimming holes and waterfalls. It is a very serene and non-touristy area for soaking in some natural beauty outside Sydney.
Carrington Falls Campground
At 160-feet high, Carrington Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Southern Highlands. So if you’re venturing all the way from Sydney to witness this stunning sight, you may as well set up camp at the nearby Carrington Falls Campground. The town of Robertson is just over a 10-minute drive away from the campsite, so you can grab food and supplies here if necessary. The campground itself has only toilets and picnic tables, so you’ll need to bring all your own supplies and water. With only six campsites, you’re bound to experience some peace and quiet at this campsite, with only the sounds of the native birds and the distant thundering of the waterfall.
Carrington Falls Campground is only a four-minute drive or a 20-minute walk from the waterfall. Imagine waking up in the early morning and watching a misty sunrise from the top of a 160-foot waterfall! At the top of Carrington Falls, the Kangaroo River is quite calm, and there are small natural pools for wading in the water.
Nellies Glen Swimming Hole and Picnic Area is another fun swimming spot, and it’s only a five-minute drive from the campground. Other highlights of the Southern Highlands, like MacQuarie Pass National Park and Belmore Falls, are nearby as well. So you have plenty of options for sightseeing, hiking, and swimming here.
Fee: $12 per night for 2 people, book online here.
Facilities: toilets, picnic tables
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Space tourism projects soon real
In 2017, NASA and the European Space Agency reaffirmed their determination to focus once again on human space exploration. Astronauts will go back to the Moon and fly off to Mars, but they’re not the only ones planning on rocketing off to outer space. Private space companies, such as SpaceX and Virgin Galactic, want to make all of us tag along for the ride as space tourists. Here are eight space travel projects that will become a reality in our lifetime and get us that much closer to turning space into one of our many travel destinations.
1. Take a trip to the International Space Station.
Photo: Bigelow Aerospace/Facebook
Seven fortunate private explorers have already slept aboard the International Space Station. These first-ever space tourists had private company Space Adventures arrange their flights to the International Space Station on the Russian Soyuz spacecraft for them to live and work alongside professional astronauts for 10 days. However, since 2009, no new space tourists have set foot on the ISS. But this is likely to change soon.
Bigelow Aerospace plans on turning part of the ISS into a destination hotel by developing the B330 spacecraft. The B330 project consists of attaching an inflatable commercial space station to the ISS, and was initially slated to become a reality in 2024, though the COVID-19 pandemic has delayed that date. The overall Bigelow Aerospace’s vision is to become the main stand-alone habitation system for low Earth orbit and deep space.
But Bigelow Aerospace is not the only one with their eyes set on the ISS. The Russian space agency (ROSCOSMOS) is developing a five-star luxury orbital module. This luxury orbital suite would be attached to the ISS and be used solely for space tourism. Six tourists a year could benefit from its mesmerizing view, Wi-Fi, and gym amenities.
Making the ISS a tourist destination is not cheap. Only those with a $40 million travel budget will be able to spend a week in these ISS hotel rooms.
2. Hop in an “affordable” 10-minute flight into low Earth orbit.
Photo: Virgin Galatic/Facebook
Traveling to low Earth orbit is quite straightforward: send a spaceship 50 miles up in the air with non-professional astronauts on board. For about 10 minutes, these private passengers will experience flying through space, as well as experiment with weightlessness and see the Earth from above. This suborbital tourist ride will be done through a reusable space plane, taking off from Earth and landing back horizontally just like a regular commercial aircraft.
Virgin Galactic is one of the top private actors in making space accessible for everyone through suborbital flights. Its SpaceShipTwo spaceflight is well on its way to making low-Earth orbit space travel a reality. A single seat for a flight with Virgin Galactic reportedly costs $250,000, but Omaze, the charity fundraising platform, and Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Galactic founder, have teamed up to give away two seats on a flight to space on the VSS Unity. The company’s first commercial suborbital flight took place in July 2021, carrying Sir Richard Brandon alongside three crewmates.
3. Live and work in the Axiom Space Station, ISS’ replacement.
Photo: Axiom Space/Facebook
Although not yet fully developed, Axiom Space Station is aiming to become the successor of the International Space Station and the first commercial space station when the ISS retires in 2025. The private company wants to make living and working in space commonplace — by turning Axiom into the home of professional astronauts, as well as private explorers. The station will consist of modules linked to the International Space Station that will welcome a crew of 16 people micro-gravitating in low Earth orbit. The crew will stay in cabins designed by designer Philippe Starck, admiring the view through massive windows and sharing pictures with their loved ones via the Wi-Fi connection on the space station. As soon as 2022, space tourists will be able to stay 10 days on the station for the eye-watering cost of $55 million.
4. Take a trip from NYC to LA, through Space.
Photo: SpaceX, Galactic Innovation/Facebook
The idea behind Earth-to-Earth flights is to be able to get anywhere on Earth in under an hour. This would be a revolution for airplane transportation led by the BFR reusable rocket technology from private company SpaceX. The BFR would rocket to low-Earth orbit, fly toward its destination, and come back down vertically to a dedicated spaceport, making it possible to get from New York to Los Angeles in less than 30 minutes; NYC to Shanghai in 39 minutes; and Bangkok to Dubai in 24 minutes.
The rocket is still at an early stage of development. To go from orbital testing to full-on commercial Earth-to-Earth flights will certainly require a couple of extra decades. To see what an Earth-to-Earth flight would look like, check out this video. Note that the BFR acronym is not clearly defined. Some say it stands for Big Falcon Rocket although most like to think it means Big F*cking Rocket.
5. Fly around the moon like it’s no biggie.
Photo: Space Adventures
Circumlunar exploration will give space tourists access to the Moon’s vicinity. Private space operator Space Adventures’ plans are to soon offer touristronauts the possibility to fly aboard a Soyuz rocket to the International Space Station for a 10-day stay so that they can adapt to the Space Environment and to zero gravity. After completion, the private explorers will hop back onto the Soyuz spacecraft and connect with a lunar module orbiting in low-Earth orbit — thus starting their real journey to the Moon, which will last approximately six days.
Landing on the moon is not part of the trip. The tourists will get as close as 62 miles from the moon’s surface, letting them join the elite club of the 24 astronauts who have left low-Earth orbit so far. The cost for this journey is still unknown.
6. Move to Mars.
Photo: Mars One – Human Settlement of Mars/Facebook
Mars is the ultimate destination. Having the first human on Mars will most likely occur in less than 10 years, and SpaceX and Boeing are competing to get there first. Public space agencies (NASA, ESA, ROSCOSMOS, ISRO) are also working on their own technologies to fly there, although their flights would be dedicated to research and sampling only. Mars One is another private company advocating for human settlement on Mars although lack of funds might put their project in jeopardy. Regardless of whoever’s project gets concretized first, they’re paving the way to building a base and a self-sustaining human civilization on the red planet. We’re no longer solely talking about space tourism but about becoming full-time residents of Mars.
The first unmanned mission to Mars is planned for 2022 by SpaceX. Two years later, SpaceX intends to launch their first crewed mission. Boeing claims they’ll make it first, but that remains to be seen. These first trips will certainly not include touristronauts but will be the stepping stone to frequent travels to Mars for each and every one of us in about 80 to 100 years.
7. Ride a hot-air balloon to space.
Photo: Space Perspective
If you’re picturing a hot-air balloon ride like the ones you see in Cappadocia or Albuquerque, you’ll have to adjust your expectations. Startup Space Perspective is planning to launch a tourist flight to outer space in a balloon-like shuttle for the (comparatively) low price tag of $125,000.
In 2020 the company announced its new Spaceship Neptune, a crew capsule surrounded by massive windows, and including a minibar and bathroom. The capsule would dangle from the end of a high-altitude balloon filled with hydrogen gas and hover on the edge of space. In June 2021, the company successfully completed its first test run of the capsule’s ascent into space with no humans on board, though the bookable journey likely won’t be available until 2024.
The trip is slated to last six hours, with two hours spent ascending 100,000 feet above Earth, two hours to enjoy the view, and another two hours for the descent. Reservations are now open for 2024 if you don’t mind making a refundable deposit.
8. Stay in a ferris-wheel-like pace hotel.
Photo: Orbital Assembly/Facebook
Staying in a space hotel might sound like a pretty gigantic leap into the future, but it’s not as far away as you might think. Orbital Assembly has announced that it will begin construction on the first-ever space hotel by 2026, and it will be designed to accommodate 280 guests and 112 crew members. The hotel will be housed by Voyager Station, a commercial space station, and will recreate an Earth-like environment with artificial gravity. It will, however, have a gymnasium with lunar gravity, where people can work out, play games, and see how high they can jump in a zero-gravity environment. There will also be an opportunity to take a spacewalk. Voyager Station also plans to hire world-class chefs and top entertainment to give people a truly memorable luxury experience.
The hotel isn’t likely to open before 2027, and the cost for a three-and-a-half-day excursion around Earth’s orbit is projected at around $5 million.
A version of this article was previously published on August 30, 2018, and was updated on July 26, 2021, with more information.
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