Matador Network's Blog, page 668
April 16, 2021
New Zealand wants to make smoking illegal
New Zealand aims to be entirely smoke-free by 2025 and to reach this goal, it has announced several proposals including making smoking illegal for anyone born after 2004, The Guardian reported.
Among the proposals are gradually increasing the legal smoking age and banning the sale of cigarette and tobacco products to anyone born after 2004. Reducing the amount of nicotine allowed in tobacco products, banning filters, and setting a minimum price for tobacco have also been under consideration.
Dr. Ayesha Varrall, New Zealand’s associate health minister, said on Thursday, “We need a new approach. About 4,500 New Zealanders die every year from tobacco, and we need to make accelerated progress to be able to reach that goal [of Smokefree 2025]. Business-as-usual without a tobacco control program won’t get us there.”
Several public health organizations support the new measures. Lucy Elwood, chief executive of the Cancer Society, said in a statement, “This proposal goes beyond assisting people to quit. […] Tobacco is the most harmful consumer product in history and needs to be phased out.”
There are, however, some critics of the proposed laws. Many worry about the negative economic impact on small businesses that sell cigarettes and the potential for a tobacco black market.
Smoking accounts for one in four cancer deaths in New Zealand. 
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Celebrate Earth Day with around-the-world good news on climate
This is The Climate Win, the most positive sustainability news around the world every week.
Earth Day is next week, and with it comes good news on the climate front. US President Joe Biden plans to host world leaders on April 22 — Earth Day itself — to motivate US allies to plan big in advance of the United Nations climate summit in Glasgow this October. The New York Times reported this week that Biden’s meeting looks to draw some big announcements, including from Japan, which plans to cut emissions 50 percent below 2013 levels by 2030; South Korea, which will announce an overseas coal moratorium; and Canada, which also promises a big statement.
High-level announcements like these are encouraging, but for the average person, they tend to get lost in translation, partly because realizing these announcements is often years away and because they’re so high-level that it’s tough for you and me to feel like we’re playing a part. In honor of the feel-good nature of Earth Day, The Climate Win is taking this week to highlight another form of global sustainability initiatives: lower-level achievements that everyday travelers cannot only appreciate, but participate in as travel comes back.
Our Earth Day tour starts down under, in Australia. The city of Adelaide, South Australia, is now officially home to the world’s first solar-powered public transportation system, the Tindo Electric Bus, a free bus that shuttles passengers through the city’s center using solar-charged voltaic batteries. Farther east in New South Wales, the city of Melbourne is pioneering a rooftop honey program called, appropriately, Rooftop Honey, to reclaim unused rooftops and balconies as a habitat for honey bees to help them survive and thrive in an urban environment. And finally, a new koala hospital will open this year at the Werribee Open Range Zoo in the state of Victoria to house koalas impacted by last year’s bush fires.
Moving north to East Asia, Intrepid Travel has launched two “decarbonized” tour itineraries. The first, a 12-day tour from Beijing to Hong Kong, swaps out internal flights for high-speed rail travel across China to complement a number of foot-powered adventures on the daily itinerary. The second, Premium Cambodia, will now shuttle passengers by ferry up the Tonle Sap River between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh in place of the domestic flight used previously.
In Europe, the French parliament voted Sunday to approve a ban on short-haul domestic flights. Yes, technically, this is news you officially can’t participate in, but what you can do is hop on a train when traveling in France, which is both more sustainable and more enjoyable, anyhow.
And here on the homefront in the United States, Las Vegas — the beacon of excess and consumerism — is in the process of banning “ornamental grass.” Up to eight square miles of grassed area across the metro area could be headed for fresh landscaping, following a two-decade push to get residents off the water-sucking green, reported.
More climate winsThe transition to electric vehicles in the United States took a step forward this week as two giant battery makers settled a trade dispute that will allow a battery factory in Georgia to proceed, NPR. The factory will employ Americans to build and power American-made cars to run green on American streets, a modern take on the classic dream.
Facebook announced on its website this week that its entire global operation is now powered by 100 percent renewable energy. In celebration of Earth Day, the social media giant plans to highlight “creators, small businesses and educational resources” leading the fight against climate change via its various accounts: @Instagram, @Creators, @InstagramforBusiness, and @Shop.
The Navajo Nation has finalized two massive solar leases on its land. The Cameron Solar Generation Plant will provide power to one of Arizona’s largest utilities, while the Red Mesa Tapaha Solar Generation Plant will provide power to the Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems. Both plants will create hundreds of jobs during construction, The Associated Press reported.
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The best Dallas Airbnbs, from a Deep Ellum warehouse to a family ranch
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, and listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Sprawling over 60 miles in width, Dallas-Fort Worth certainly upholds the motto “Everything is bigger in Texas.” Filled with zealous entrepreneurs, international enclaves, contemporary artists, and modern-day cowboys, there’s more than enough space for everyone. Exceedingly car-centric, the metroplex conceals its cultural diversity between fast-moving highways and widely spaced residential neighborhoods. Renting an Airbnb is the best way to immerse in local life and discover that Southern hospitality is still alive and well. From glamorous mansions to quiet couple’s retreats, these are 11 of Dallas’s coolest Airbnbs.
1. Downtown Studio Loft
Photo: Airbnb
Sleek and minimal, this airy apartment is situated in the buzziest district of downtown. Fit for couples or long-term remote workers, it’s centrally located in Dallas’s most urban neighborhood. Shop at the flagship Neiman Marcus just down the street, and sample elevated Texan comfort food at CBD Provisions. Drink a poolside cocktail at Waterproof and head back to a king bed and a spacious interior to rest until the next outing into the city.
Three guests, studio
Price: $119 per night
Photo: Airbnb
For a quirkier option, rent this charming cottage in the Bishop Arts District. Complete with a porch, a hammock, and an extensive book selection, this house will be sure to creatively recharge. The recently revitalized neighborhood still showcases its Hispanic roots, with pleasant boutiques, experimental eateries, and abundant greenery. Sample nationally renowned tacos at Trompo, and grab a stiff cocktail at bookshop-turned-bar The Wild Detectives. Return home for more relaxation in the colorful garden.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $87 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Spacious and modern yet welcoming, this large East Dallas home would do well to entertain any assortment of large groups. Complete with a heated pool, BBQ, outdoor games, and 10 beds, the house is a destination in itself. With four TVs and ultra-fast internet, it could be a family-friendly remote workspace or the backdrop for a celebration. Located in a peaceful area mere minutes from White Rock Lake, the location is ideal to explore Dallas’s pedestrian trail network.
16 guests, four bedrooms
Price: $600 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Excellent value for its central location, this comfortable Design District apartment is located in close proximity to Dallas’s modern art scene. Browse cutting-edge works at the Dallas Contemporary & AND NOW, then wash it down with a beer at world-renowned gastropub Meddlesome Moth. Prepare a picnic in the well-equipped kitchen, and take it to catch the sunset at nearby Trinity Greenbelt Park for sunset views of the city.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $81 per night
Photo: Airbnb
For a taste of Cowtown, look no further than this charming 1925 home mere minutes from the Stockyards. Complete with cacti sculptures, a bucket fountain in the garden, and a spacious Southern-style porch, it’s the ideal launching pad for a honky-tonk night at Billy Bob’s. With three bedrooms, five tables, and strong internet, it could also function as a communal working space in the most cowboy of environs. Grab some meat at nearby Cooper’s BBQ, fire-up the fireplace, and soak in the Texan aroma.
Six guests, three bedrooms
$153 per night
Photo: Airbnb
For an elegant Dallas experience, book this warehouse converted into a contemporary loft. Filled with modern art and industrial decor, the space fits perfectly in its location next to Deep Ellum, the premier nightlife district of the city. Once a gritty center for jazz and rock, the area has transformed to appeal to a diversity of tastes. Sample upscale cocktails at HIDE, listen to a folk-rock band at Adair’s, and check out art-filled bar Deep Ellum Art Co for unusual shows. Return to roof-top views and a small coworking space in the same building to run through the weekdays until the next night out.
Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $260 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Experience a slice of ranch life at this eight-acre estate surprisingly close to the metroplex. Complete with eight beds, a large pool, and a huge patio, the whole property is truly of Texan proportions. Wander the grounds, and gather the family around the outdoor fireplace. For more nature opportunities, head to Lake Ray Roberts State Park to take in the hills, forests, and a tranquil lake. City life is never far, with fast-growing Frisco, home of baseball’s Texas Rangers, a 30-minute drive away.
10 guests, four bedrooms
Price: $577 per night
Photo: Airbnb
For a taste of Dallas’s diversity, book this cozy bungalow with three bedrooms and a deck. In close proximity to the Asian Trade District, experience Korean culture relaxing at 24-hour King Spa, rent a karaoke room, and then follow up with late-night food at San Jang for bibimbap, stews, and soju shots. Return to a clean and comfortable home fit for a group of friends exploring all the various enclaves Dallas has to offer.
Nine guests, three bedrooms
Price: $196 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Nicknamed “the treehouse” due to a beautiful magnolia tree out front, this brand new apartment marks all the boxes for a long-term stay. With an interior that’s equal parts roomy and cozy, fast Wi-Fi, a washer and dryer, and a balcony, it’s the place to set up base in Dallas solo or as a couple. Located in Lower Greenville, it’s in an area that’s happening, central, but still quiet and safe. Situated between Downtown, Deep Ellum, and White Rock Lake, it’s the most convenient location to explore varying urban moods.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price:$83 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Fort Worth’s urban life undeservedly gets overshadowed by its bigger neighbor. With a better botanical garden, world-class Kimbell Art Museum, and plenty of parks and eateries sprinkled in between, the city is rightfully a destination in itself. This flower-themed apartment next to the gardens sets the perfect accommodation for a city visit. Brew a mug of coffee with nearby Avoca Roasters while relaxing in the pet-friendly space. Head out to drink a beer with a delicious burger at quirky Rodeo Goat, and go for a stroll along the Trinity River. Busy, yet not hectic, Cowtown offers city life at a leisurely pace.
Three guests, one bedroom
$114 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Splurge on this two-bedroom condo for a taste of Dallas luxury. Located in Highland Park, one of the most affluent zip codes in the nation, this home is designed ornately yet tastefully. Modern art, marble, and sleek lines decorate the fresh interior. Minutes from Highland Park Village, the shopping is to complement the stay with stores such as Chanel and Hermes. Complete the affluent experience with dinner at renowned steakhouse Al Biernat’s.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $550 per night
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Best waterfalls in West Virginia
There’s something magical about watching water cascade over a series of drops or plummet from a high precipice and collect in a pool below. Around the world, there are few natural wonders that are as captivating and beautiful as waterfalls. Whether they’re viewed from the road or some remote path in the forest, it’s mesmerizing just to be in their presence. Of the more than 250 waterfalls in the state, here are our seven favorites in wild and wonderful West Virginia.
1. Babcock Mill Creek Falls
Photo: Michael R Brown/Shutterstock
Located just 20 minutes from one of the nation’s newest national parks, and the only one in the state, Babcock State Park is a 4,127-acre picturesque treasure. The park is best known for the Glade Creek Grist Mill, completed in 1976, which is a fully functional replica that was placed near the site of the original Cooper’s Mill. When you view the grist mill from the bottom of the falls, you will soon realize why this is one of the most photographed places in the state (after the New River Gorge Bridge, of course). To get to the park from the iconic NRG Bridge, travel north on US-19 to US-60 east. The mill and falls are located near the park headquarters and gift shop.
2. Cathedral Falls
Photo: Cynthia Kidwell/Shutterstock
While it’s possible to view this 60-foot waterfall from the comfort of your car as you pass by it on US Route 60, it’s well worth taking a few minutes to park and embrace what may arguably be the most scenic in the state. During the drier months, Cathedral Falls can be reduced to a slight trickle but after rain or early in the season, the cascading veil is a sight to behold. Located approximately a mile east of the town of Gauley Bridge (40 minutes east of Charleston) and just a short drive from Kanawha Falls, this easily accessible waterfall has a small parking area to allow getting a closer look at one of the highest waterfalls in the state.
3. Blackwater Falls
Photo: Hsa htaw/Shutterstock
The Blackwater River cuts through its namesake state park. And while there are other cascading falls created as the river courses its way deep into the gorge, this one and Elakala are not to be missed. Located near the town of Davis, West Virginia, the state park is an easy and scenic drive from town that takes approximately 10 minutes. There are two options for getting a closer look at this more than 50-foot fall. The Boardwalk Trail, while still relatively short, can be easier going down to the observation deck than heading back up the several hundred steps. For a less-tiresome approach, consider the Gentle Trail which also leads to an observation deck but doesn’t entail a seemingly endless stair master workout.
4. Elakala Falls
Photo: Daniel Gratton/Shutterstock
Also located within the Blackwater Falls State Park, it only makes sense to hit two scenic waterfalls while here. Elakala Falls consists of four cascading drops that plunge more than 100 feet. The trailhead is located behind the Blackwater Lodge, and this moderate trail takes you to a bridge across Shay Run that has a view of the first drop of the falls. And while it’s possible to descend to catch a better glimpse of the other three drops, there aren’t any official trails, and the descent could become precarious for those not prepared. Pendleton Point offers a glimpse of the entire waterfall from across the gorge.
5. Sandstone Falls
Photo: Kenneth Keifer/Shutterstock
Like its name indicates, this waterfall spills over an expansive sandstone ledge that spans the width of the New River. Located just 10 miles north of Hinton (on River Road, WV Route 26) and downstream of the Bluestone Dam, Sandstone Falls is roughly a quarter of a mile wide with drops ranging from just a few feet to over 20 feet in height. And while it’s impossible to view the falls in their entirety from any one vantage point, there are several locations that offer spectacular views. Perched 600 feet above the river, an overlook provides a bird’s-eye view via a short gravel path from the parking lot located off of WV Route 20 approximately three miles south of the Sandstone Visitor Center. For a closer look, a quarter-mile boardwalk (accessible for those with reduced mobility) crosses several bridges and offers access to multiple islands and observation decks. To reach this option, follow WV Route 26 (River Road) from Hinton until you reach an unpaved parking area on the right.
6. Douglas Falls
Photo: Jon Bilous/Shutterstock
Fewer than 20 minutes from Blackwater Falls State Park is yet another scenic waterfall. However, if you’re traveling from the beautiful town of Thomas, take Douglas Road for approximately one mile until crossing the river. From here, take the left and follow until it dead ends. Fair warning, the last road is unpaved, but what awaits is spectacular. This setting is a photographer’s dream setting. The 35-foot drop collects in a pool below where the rocks are stained an orange hue from the coal mining operations that leached acids into the water. The orange rocks enhance the tranquil emerald water. Though it’s a quick walk to the base of the falls, it’s worth packing a lunch and enjoying this picturesque and remote retreat.
7. Falls of Hills Creek
Photo: Richie Sheppard/Shutterstock
It’s three for the price of one. The Falls at Hills Creek are a collection of falls rather than a single waterfall. The first fall is accessible via a boardwalk (accessible for people with disabilities) while the other two require a little more effort. The upper fall drops 25 feet while the middle falls 45 feet and the third plummets almost 65 feet to the rocks below. From top to bottom, the creek drops over 200 feet. Situated on a little over 100 acres in the Monongahela National Forest, this collection of falls is located just south of Highway 39 and about five miles west of the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center.
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All US national parks will be free this Saturday
The National Park Service is doing its part to encourage Americans to get outdoors. It’s waiving park entry fees six times this year, and one of those days is coming up this weekend — Saturday, April 17.
Saturday’s free entry day is in honor of the start of National Park Week, a weeklong celebration of the country’s natural beauty. While not all national parks charge for entry, those that do will be completely free on Saturday, making some of the United States’ most beautiful natural places accessible to everyone.
Although the parks themselves will be free to enter, activities within the park like tours, transportation, and camping will still retain their fees. The free entry, however, should make these fees more manageable.
National Park Week takes place from April 17 to April 25, with parks across the country hosting a range of programs, events, and digital experiences. According to the NPS, “Every April, during the presidentially proclaimed National Park Week, we join with the National Park Foundation, the official charity of America’s national parks, to celebrate America’s treasures.”
Other national parks’ free entrance days this year include:
August 4 for the one-year anniversary of the Great American Outdoors ActAugust 25 for the birthday of the NPSSeptember 25 for National Public Lands DayNovember 11 for Veterans Day More like thisParks + WildernessThe best national parks for every type of travelerThe post All US national parks will be free this Saturday appeared first on Matador Network.
9 ways that flying will be different after the pandemic, according to the experts
On March 31, 2020, just under 150,000 people passed through TSA airport checkpoints — more than two million fewer people than on March 1 of the same year. It seemed to be a sign for how the rest of the year would go for airlines: Many governments severely restricted travel to slow the spread of COVID-19. By 2021, the number of passengers started to tick back up, and that number has jumped significantly as an increasing number of people are vaccinated and destinations open their borders.
Some of the responsibility for safe travel is on the passengers themselves. The debate over vaccination passports rages on, and the CDC advises that only vaccinated people take trips. Yet it’s not all on the travelers. Airlines and airports have been steadily making improvements to ensure that passing through airports is safe.
We spoke with a number of airline officials, an architecture firm that works with airlines, and airport administrators for information on how the flying experience has changed, as well as how it will continue to change in response to COVID-19 in upcoming years.
1. A new era for business class loungesIf there was one part of an airport that was a haven from the crowds for a certain set of frequent travelers, it was the lounge. The two pandemic-era musts of more privacy and more space were already in place for these lounges, but that doesn’t mean they won’t change.
“Most higher-end lounges now have servers handling buffets, or there are pre-plated entrees to take away, avoiding the need for customers to touch tongs,” Jamie Larounis, a travel industry analyst at UpgradedPoints.com, says.
You may also see more spaced-out seating with options for single travelers or small groups. This means that busy or popular lounges will hit capacity quicker, however, which could “annoy some elite passengers,” says Bethany Fox, an interior design project manager at the global architecture firm HKS. More lounges could institute time limits for travelers in response. On the plus side, Fox says, a pivot to more touchless technology could mean greater digital access to newspapers and magazines while on the lounge Wi-Fi.
“While these changes may not be permanent, they’re likely to remain for a very long time,” Larounis says. “In fact, even without COVID, these changes are generally seen as more premium, so if they can be branded as a higher-end offering while still keeping safety in mind, it works well.”
2. It’ll be harder than ever to avoid the middle seat
Photo: Matej Kastelic/Shutterstock
In the early days of the pandemic, studies found that transmission on a plane decreased from one in 7,700 to one in 4,300 when the middle seat is left open. A more recent study from the CDC found that exposure to COVID-19 could decrease between 23 percent and 57 percent when the middle seat is left open. Many airlines blocked off the dreaded middle seat for a time while flight numbers were down regardless, but the middle seats are back. And now there’s a chance that they will be harder to avoid than ever (unless some of these wild, often ridiculous, redesigns ever happen).
“Prices for future flights have gone up dramatically, and it’s no secret that window and aisle seats are more liked,” Larounis says. “Airlines can capitalize this (and likely will) by offering ancillary revenue packages selling these seats, or offering them to higher-end customers.”
3. Minor changes in the way you get your food and drinksFood and beverage service during flights also ended during the pandemic. And while the middle seat coming back may not be ideal, everyone who knows the realities of in-flight dehydration will be happy to know that flights won’t be serviceless forever.
“Inflight food and beverage is likely to return to pre-pandemic levels for the most part,” Larounis says, “though we are likely to see reduced touchpoints as unions negotiate this into their contracts (for example, one-tray meals instead of multiple courses) or replace full meals with smaller portions at different times of the day (for example, a cheese plate instead of a full meal). Meals are an important part of the premium cabin experience, so as COVID ends, they will be restored to some semblance of normality — these are things that won’t go away entirely or be reduced to such meager levels that they drive away passengers.”
How you order said food and drink, however, may change.
“We’re already seeing airlines slowly bringing this back, and I believe we’ll see more of this since costs are dropping thanks to portable solutions,” says Bayram Annakov, CEO of the personal travel assistant App in the Air. “More and more passengers want to be able to order and access in-flight amenities like food and drinks right from their phones. New technologies like LiFE in the Air are enabling this and creating solutions that help airlines turn the existing cost-center setup into a revenue-generating engine for them.”
4. A different type of in-flight entertainment experienceThere are two types of travelers: those who abhor watching movies on the small screen on the back of the seat, and those who fully embrace it. For the latter, the good news is that in-flight entertainment is likely to return as it was, Larounis says.
Some airlines are moving more toward providing Wi-Fi for passengers who prefer their own screens. Others are adding more ways to reduce touchpoints on existing built-in entertainment devices. Qatar Airways, for example, is adding zero-touch technology in its A350 planes, and it’s also updating its Boeing 787-9 fleet so that people can pair Bluetooth headphones to the seatback entertainment devices. The airline partnered with PressReader to offer more than 6,000 magazines and newspapers digitally using the Oryx One app as well.
5. Less emphasis on travel reward points
Photo: ms_pics_and_more/Shutterstock
It’s probably been quite some time since you’ve received an influx of mail touting cards with the best travel points or been harangued by people at stalls in airport terminals about reward points. There’s a good chance we won’t exactly go back to those days. For one, more points programs may turn to a revenue-based model where the points are tied to the cost of the ticket.
“Very soon we are likely to see a devaluation of travel rewards program points — there’s too much points currency circulating, and with that comes the need for programs to require more points for redemptions in order to balance out their balance sheets,” Larounis says. “We are likely to see actual elite levels continue to be rewarding or offer more benefits as many travelers hit a ‘reset’ point in their travel experience, allowing them to choose a different carrier, though no matter the airline, points programs are likely to devalue.”
6. More streamlined securitySome of the biggest changes to flying will be seen before you even board the plane. Security checkpoints are becoming speedier (the less time surrounded by others in a tight line, the better), the amount of contact with other people is decreasing, and scanning technology is getting better so there will be less time spent rummaging through bags. Even the act of verifying your identity will be permanently changed.
“Last summer, The Transportation Security Administration introduced Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) at GSP,” says Michelle Newman, the communications manager at Greenville-Spartanburg Airport District (GSP). “The CAT digitally scans passengers’ IDs to verify identification and reservation information in one step. Passengers no longer need to show a boarding pass, or hand their ID to an agent, eliminating a major touchpoint while maintaining security. Security lanes at GSP also feature CT technology to scan luggage. The enhanced scanning creates a 3-D image of the carry-on that cuts down on the need to manually remove many items.”
7. Touchless airport experienceParts of the airport outside of security will also transition to fewer points where you have to physically touch a screen in order to move through the airport.
At Greenville-Spartanburg Airport District, touchless technology like a texting program that travelers can use to communicate with airport staff was introduced last year using the number 864-485-8885. It’s proven popular and is here for the long run, Newman says, though the in-person information booth isn’t going away. Thanks to a touchless parking payment system that was already in the works at Greenville-Spartanburg Airport District, Newman says travelers can go from their car seatbelt to their airplane seatbelt without touching anything that isn’t yours if you take advantage of all the new technology.
Greenville-Spartanburg Airport District isn’t the only airport doing so, of course.
“Design will be geared more towards a touchless experience,” says James Lugaila, the aviation senior project manager at HKS. “Airports and airlines are starting to implement this; however, it varies from airport to airport. The touchless experience allows you to more personalize your travel experience. From your phone you can decide to find a nice remote corner of the terminal and order food and retail, entertainment and check on your bags and cleanliness of your airplane.”
8. A new way to manage airport space
Photo: Jaem Prueangwet/Shutterstock
The inside of the airport could see some changes, as well, according to staff at HKS. Seating next to the gate area could expand so that people can keep an eye on their gate without as much crowding, HKS Regional Design Director Jorge Barrero says. Barrero adds that there may also be more pre-determined pathways to control the flow and movement of people, and gathering areas could be more carefully monitored and laid out.
“Open food courts and areas where there has been typically less oversight may change, especially with the rollout of more food and shopping delivery options in the airport,” Barrero says. “However, this will increase the need for detailed and regular cleaning beyond the food/beverage concession spaces because of limited spaces within concession areas.”
But don’t expect to see these changes right away. In some cases, you might not even actively notice the changes have been made at all.
“Many of these changes will occur over the next couple of years,” says HKS Aviation Operations Director Joshua Stephens, “since funding to pay for the changes is necessary as well as projects that were put on hold will be re-activated, possibly with some changes to adjust to the new needs of spaces in a post-pandemic environment. The major changes are mostly passive. The average passenger will notice the social distancing and face mask signage as well as the plexiglass dividers and hand sanitizing stations.”
9. Cleanliness changesAnother set of changes relates to the sanitation of airports and planes. For travelers who picked up a few (ok, a lot) of new hygiene habits and an eye for cleanliness over the past year, rest assured that some changes can’t be seen.
“Safety and cleanliness from an architectural standpoint isn’t necessarily visible,” Stephens says, adding that many projects were put on hold at the start of the pandemic. “Within the last six months we are hearing more about non-visible efforts that airports are doing to mitigate the spread of the virus through the use of UV lighting to help scrub the air, common touchpoints, and floors.”
Cleaning has also become the responsibility of more than just the custodial and maintenance departments. “Now, many airports have moved that under safety, and it is scrutinized as a security threat,” Lugaila says. “Many airports have appointed an infectious disease specialist and partnered with local healthcare systems to review and improve all functions within an airport, not just the restrooms.”
On the planes, UV cleaning has joined other standard cleaning procedures for a number of airlines. It’s all part of the many ways — both seen and unseen — that the flying experience will be different as soon as people feel safe to venture out once again.
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April 15, 2021
Airbnb is blocking some guests from making July 4 reservations to prevent house parties
A staple of Airbnb house rules is the classic “no house parties allowed” clause, but many guests don’t take that very seriously. To crack down on potential house parties, especially during a year of COVID-19 restrictions, Airbnb is now blocking guests from booking an entire home for a single-night stay this July 4, unless the guest has a history of good reviews.
In a statement, Airbnb wrote, “As the July 4 weekend approaches, we are deploying more stringent restrictions on one and two-night reservations that may pose heightened risk for parties. For example, we will leverage our technology that restricts certain local and last-minute bookings by guests without a history of positive reviews on Airbnb and also block reservations within an expanded radius.”
House rules, including quiet hours and occupancy limits, will be moved higher up on the listing pages to highlight their importance.
“This helps communicate those important rules loud and clear while aligning expectations between Hosts and guests,” Airbnb wrote, “to try to ensure respectful treatment of properties and neighbors during stays.”
It’s all part of Airbnb’s “Summer of Responsible Travel” plan to encourage travelers to behave responsibly and within COVID-19 guidelines. In anticipation of a surge in bookings for the summer season, Airbnb is also adding a Neighborhood Support hotline, which customers can use to report issues to trained agents in real-time. Superhosts can also use the service for renting noise-detection devices, though their use must be disclosed in the property listing.
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On Lake Superior’s north shore, Duluth is an outdoor lover’s dream
Duluth, Minnesota, may be known as a port city on Lake Superior — but this town with 11,000 acres of green space is one of the most incredible places in the Midwest for anyone who loves getting into nature. We spoke with Emily Ford, the town’s resident outdoor celebrity, about why she’s chosen to call the wooded North Shore city home and what to do outdoors in Duluth.
If being head gardener overseeing the extensive grounds of historic Glensheen Mansion wasn’t enough to establish her outdoor credentials, Ford firmly proved her bona fides when she became the second person and the first woman to hike the entire 1200-mile Ice Age Trail in winter. She is also the first Black person to hike it in its entirety, regardless of the season.
While the Ice Age Trail is in next-door Wisconsin, Ford grew up in Twin Cities, Minnesota, and after college, she and a friend moved to Duluth — in part because Ford has always loved the North Shore of Lake Superior.
“Living next to Lake Superior is such a privilege, a crazy privilege that I don’t think I even knew before I came up here,” says Ford. To that, Ford adds easy access to Duluth’s wooded trails. “I can walk to several trailheads. I can get on a trail, either by mountain biking or walking or running or whatever, pretty much from my house. And that’s pretty special.”
Hiking alongside a city creek
Photo: Jacob Boomsma/Shutterstock
Chester Park is one of the top places that Ford recommends for hiking in town. The 2.4-mile loop takes you along a creek through a forest of evergreens and deciduous trees, alongside several cascades and waterfalls. Whether amid the bright green leaves of spring, the lushness of summer, the multi-hued nip of fall, or the frozen stillness of winter, the ever-changing view is nourishing. It’s an effortless nature escape because, as Ford emphasizes, “It’s literally in town.”
Get some elevation at Ely’s Peak
Photo: Mark Herreid/Shutterstock
Outside the urban area, but inside city limits, Ely’s Peak is just 400-feet high, but the 1.7-mile loop to get to the top gives you a lovely vista of the wooded area, shaped by glaciers many millenniums ago. It’s just south of the Magney-Snively Natural Area, which is also crisscrossed with hiking trails. Folks love to come to Ely’s Peak for hiking, although in spring, you may find the peak still snow-covered. Dogs are welcome on-leash, which is a good thing, considering Ford has a dog at home. A different trained sled-dog named Diggins accompanied Ford for the duration of her three-month Ice Age Trail trek. That’s because she knew Diggins was much more accustomed to the cold than her own dog. (You can see what a good time Diggins was having on Emily’s Instagram stories of her adventure).
Explore stunning state parks along the North Shore
Photo: Karen Perhus/Shutterstock
“There’s that whole north shore drive,” says Ford. “You’re out of Duluth proper, but it’s not that big a deal to drive that far, and then it’s like boom, boom, boom. There’s a bunch of state parks right in a row.”
Each of these state parks is a gem, and even the farthest one lies within an hour of downtown. Beyond it is the national border with Canada. The first, Gooseberry Falls State Park, is just 45 minutes from Duluth and boasts a stunning gorge and a wide, photogenic waterfall — in addition to abundant wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and gray wolves.
Just five miles beyond Gooseberry, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park draws visitors to its historic lighthouse sitting atop a cliff, but the park also has plenty of trails and even primitive campsites along the lake. Finally, Tettegouche State Park is only an hour away, and it wows visitors with its rock cliffs overlooking the lake. You are well north here, and you’ll find that reflected in the animal life, which, in addition to bears and deer, includes moose, snowshoe hares, red foxes, and the occasional timber wolf. Along the park’s waterways, you might spot beavers and river otters.
Hammock on the world’s longest freshwater sandbar
Photo: Chiemi Freund/Shutterstock
Park Point is a seven-mile-long sandbar that extends southeast from Duluth into Lake Superior. Where it ends, there’s a short stretch of water and another three-mile sandbar on the Wisconsin side of Lake Superior. The Minnesota sandbar is home to houses, parks, a marsh, dunes, and, at its very tip, a welcoming forest full of various species of pines. You can hike in the woods, go for a dip in Lake Superior, and, as Ford, suggests “go hammocking.”
To “hammock” is apparently a verb in these parts, and it’s just one more great way to enjoy the outdoors in Duluth. Ford says she and her partner will get friends together, all of whom have their own hammocks. She doesn’t know whether hammocking is a broad Duluth-wide activity, but she says hanging the hammocks off a tree and chilling with friends is “super fun.”
Mountain bike the COGG’s Trail
Photo: Bogdan Denysyuk/Shutterstock
Ford says she likes mountain biking, and while she doesn’t yet claim to have any hard-core, single-track expertise in the sport, she has plenty of places to practice — including over 90 miles of mountain biking trails. They are supported by the Cyclists of the Gitche Gumee Shores; a non-profit group set up to develop and maintain biking trails in the Duluth/Superior area of Minnesota and Wisconsin. It’s been working with the City of Duluth to create a 40-mile trail that will be primarily single-track, with some wider paths and gravel stretches as well.
Road bike the Gitchi Gami State TrailAmong the Ojibwe people, the words variously spelled gichi-gami, gitchi-gami, kitchi-gami, or gitche gumee mean big or large water. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow popularized the name for Lake Superior in an 1855 Hiawatha poem, and it has remained in use since then.
The Gitchi Gami State Trail, supported by the non-profit Gitchi Gami Trail Association, will eventually stretch 89-miles from Two Harbors to Grand Marais. The trail will be paved but free of large, motorized vehicles, so perfect for road biking. While Ford says there are plenty of other road biking opportunities near Duluth, she, in any case, recommends a visit to the photogenic town of Grand Marais — which also has “the world’s best doughnuts,” according to Ford.
Get out on the lakePhoto: Alpha_7D/Shutterstock
Ford may be best known these days for her long-distance hiking prowess, but she really knows how to savor the best of Duluth — and Lake Superior is one of the city’s treasures. Ford says she doesn’t just walk next to Lake Superior but also likes to go “swimming in it and paddling on it.” She has a kayak of her own to do so.
While Ford’s family also owns a small fishing boat, she respects the lake’s grand size. “I see little boats on the lake and I’m like hoy, she’ll swallow you whole on a bad day… It’s a very large lake. It looks like an ocean.”
Take it to the extreme: Fat bike, cross-country ski, or surf
Photo: Bogdan Denysyuk/Shutterstock
“Cross-country skiing and fat biking are two very large things to do in the winter time,” says Ford, although she doesn’t own a fat bike herself.
In fact, you can do almost any activity outdoors in Duluth that you can think of, opines Ford, which is one reason she tells us, “I love living here.”
And while she says that people even surf in Duluth, it’s not an activity she’s rushing to try herself. “People surf on Lake Superior. It’s very cold, I think,” says Ford.
Coming from the person who spent three months walking through a Midwestern winter, we’ll take her word for it.
The post On Lake Superior’s north shore, Duluth is an outdoor lover’s dream appeared first on Matador Network.
Puerto Rico travel guide summer
This time last year, the prospect of summer travel was becoming a pipe dream. Now, with the Biden administration announcing that the nation’s vaccine supply will cover every American adult by the end of May, that fantasy looks like it may be a reality once again. There’ll still be asterisks to summer travel, including where Americans will be able to go. One suggestion: Puerto Rico.
While travel restrictions like testing requirements and an island-wide curfew are still in place, Puerto Rico is open to travelers, and being a US territory it’s one destination that does not require Americans to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test upon reentry. Logistics aside, Puerto Rico is also blessed with outdoors that make social distancing easy, including the only tropical rainforest operated by the US National Forest Service. It’s an easy sell, really.
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Puerto Rico this summer.
Entry requirements and COVID testingWhat’s open in Puerto Rico?Staying in San Juan A crowd-free island experience to the west Explore El Yunque National ForestEntry requirements and COVID testingPuerto Rico is welcoming air travelers at three ports: the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan, Mercedita International Airport in Ponce, and Rafael Hernández Airport in Aguadilla. To enter, arriving passengers are required to complete a Travel Declaration Form from the Puerto Rico Health Department and provide a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival, whether or not they have been vaccinated.
Travelers who do not present a negative PCR test will be expected to quarantine for 14 days or until they’re able to return one. Upon uploading their test results to the health department’s online portal, travelers will also be issued an Airport Exit Confirmation number and QR code, which they’re required to have. Once at the airport, arriving passengers can expect heightened health and safety protocols, such as temperature checks and thermographic screenings.
What’s open in Puerto Rico?
Photo: Martin Wheeler III/Shutterstock
There’s good news for travelers seeking a literal and figurative breath of fresh air in Puerto Rico this summer: Outdoor spaces like beaches, nature reserves, and golf courses are open. Masks and social distancing are required at all times, except when beachgoers are in the water.
Most indoor spaces, including hotels and restaurants, are currently operating at half capacity. Reservations are highly encouraged. Museums, movie theaters, casinos, gyms, and even hotel pools are also operating at 50 percent capacity while businesses like supermarkets and pharmacies are open. Travelers are able to visit hair salons and spas on the island provided they make an appointment in advance, exempting saunas which are currently closed. Bars and clubs are closed, as well, and all public alcohol consumption is currently prohibited.
Note that locals and travelers alike are subject to a curfew between 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM while on the island. Businesses are not operating during these hours with a few exceptions: Grocery deliveries are available until midnight; taxi services from the airport are also allowed to operate outside of curfew hours, so travelers need not worry about transportation to their accommodations; buses and subways are also running, as are ferries to the island of Culebra. While ports are currently closed to cruise ships, marinas are open but only until 9:00 PM.
For more information on what to expect, consult the Discover Puerto Rico website.
Staying in San Juan
Photo: Gem Russan/Shutterstock
Anyone visiting Puerto Rico should try to see as much of the island as possible, but it’s likely that you’ll be spending at least a day or two in San Juan. Just because you’re in the capital city, however, doesn’t mean you need to be squeezing through crowds of tourists. There’s no shortage of beaches on the island, and San Juan is no exception. Condado, Ocean Park, and Pine Grove beaches are all located within city limits, and a great break from the urban environment.
There’s no doubt that Old San Juan is the city’s premier tourist area. It’s currently only open to residents and tourists who are staying in the area, however, so you may want to consider booking your accommodation there. While its cobbled streets, fort of Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Castillo de San Cristóbal, and nearby Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery are among the city’s most famous attractions, you can also enjoy a less crowded version of San Juan by staying in the newer Ashford Avenue, the main drag of the Condado neighborhood. The modern street runs right along the beach and is replete with cafes, restaurants, and resorts.
The Old Town alternative to Ashford Avenue is Paseo de la Princesa, which means “walkway of the princess.” Located just outside the walls of Old San Juan to the south, Paseo de la Princesa is a 19th-century avenue that has Old World charm without the crowds that typically clog the narrow streets inside the city. Ambling down the street, and through the plaza, you’ll have a great view of San Juan’s historic fortifications. The street is defined by its antique lamp posts, stone fountains, street vendors, and views of the old city walls.
Around San Juan, you’ll quickly notice an abundance of street art murals. The capital is full of colorful artwork that will really liven up any walking tour. The Calle Cerra, and adjoining side streets, are particularly known for their colorful art. And if you happen to be visiting in August, you’ll be treated to the Santurce es Ley contemporary art festival, where street artists decorate empty parking lots and old buildings with large murals.
A crowd-free island experience to the west
Photo: Jeramey Lende/Shutterstock
You can have an epic Puerto Rico vacation without ever setting foot in San Juan. From rainforests to hidden beaches, there are plenty of ways to get the full experience while keeping your distance from others.
It’s currently only open to residents and tourists who are staying in the area, however, so you may want to consider booking your accommodation there. While its cobbled streets, fort of Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Castillo de San Cristóbal, and nearby Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery are among the city’s most famous attractions, you can also enjoy a less crowded version of San Juan by staying in the newer Ashford Avenue, the main drag of the Condado neighborhood. The modern street runs right along the beach and is replete with cafes, restaurants, and resorts.
Photo: nestorportalatin/Shutterstock
Just south of Rincón lies Cabo Rojo, another area perfect for escaping the crowds and indulging in the island’s natural beauty. In the southwest, Cabo Rojo is known for its beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs, and restaurant scene. Its name is a reference to the water’s reddish color where the salt flats are located, due to a high concentration of salt. The salt flats here are seriously impressive and one of the island’s most beautiful hidden landscapes. Perched atop the cliffs of Cabo Rojo, the observation deck of Los Morrillos Lighthouse offers one of the best views in the area, looking out over the sea, and it’s probably the best way to admire the surrounding cliffs. For a more active experience, take one of the hiking trails to Cabo Rojo’s natural stone bridge.
Photo: Ilya Sviridenko/Shutterstock
A short drive from Cabo Rojo, you can find La Parguera bioluminescent bay. It may not be as famous as Mosquito Bay in Vieques, which is closer to San Juan, but you’ll find fewer crowds. Better yet, it’s the only bioluminescent bay on the island that allows motorboats and swimming, versus just paddling. Take a boat tour, kayak, or just go for a dip and enjoy the surreal feeling of swimming among the glowing dinoflagellates.
Explore El Yunque National Forest
Photo: Dennis van de Water/Shutterstock
As you’ll soon learn from spending just a few days in Puerto Rico, rainforests aren’t just for South America. El Yunque National Forest, the rainforest near the east coast of the island, is open to visitors with limited capacity in main recreation areas. All other areas in the park are open with social distancing measures enforced. To access the main recreation areas, you’ll need a reservation, which can be made online.
Two of the best hikes in the area are the trek up to Mount Britton Tower and the El Yunque Rock Trail. At the end of both, you’ll have a great view all the way to the coast. To cap off your rainforest experience, take a refreshing dip in the Mameyes River. The El Angelito Trail ends at a rope, which you can use to swing right into a swimming hole.
Photo: ButtermilkgirlVirginia/Shutterstock
There are a few waterfalls in El Yunque National Forest, but for a truly dramatic waterfall experience, drive out west to Gozalandia Falls. About 30 minutes from the city of Aguadilla on the island’s west coast (and an hour from Rincón) Gozalandia Falls are a tranquil getaway in the heart of one of Puerto Rico’s most beautiful jungles. The falls lie at the end of a short hike through the trees, spilling into a pool that’s perfect for swimming. While there will probably be locals there jumping off the falls or using the rope swing, it’s one of Puerto Rico’s more secluded experiences and a great break from civilization.
A version of this article was previously published on July 20, 2020, and was updated on April 15, 2021, with more information.
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New study attempts to rank every state from best to worst
Imagine waking up one morning to discover that you live in the “worst state in the country.” Sorry, Alabama. Designations like “best” and “worst” are undeniably subjective, but that hasn’t stopped YouGov from trying to rank each US state based on a vague perception of its quality. To do it, they tapped unbiased experts who are highly versed in political, cultural, and socioeconomic issues and are well-qualified to comment on each state’s quality of life. Oh, wait — they just asked 1,200 random Americans to fill out a March Madness-style bracket.
Photo: YouGov
According to YouGov, “We asked people to choose the better of two states in a series of head-to-head matchups. States are rated based on their ‘win percentage,’ that is: how often that state won the head-to-head matchup when it was one of the two states shown.”
So in case you’re dying to know what complete strangers think of your state — strangers who, in all likelihood, have never even been there — YouGov has you covered. In the least surprising news of all time, Hawaii ranked number one, winning a very nice 69 percent of its matchups. Colorado came in second with 65 percent, followed by Virginia, Nevada, and North Carolina.
The 1,200-member brain trust had no love for the South, ranking Alabama, Mississippi, and Arkansas in the bottom five, with Missouri and Kentucky making an appearance in the bottom 10. Oft-picked on New Jersey was the lowest-ranked state outside of the South at #48, and not-a-state Washington DC was dead last.
The study says that survey respondents tended to favor their home state or current residence. YouGov says that Americans selected their home state 77 percent of the time it was shown, and their current state of residence 79 percent of the time — which would imply that states with larger populations were favored.
The post New study attempts to rank every state from best to worst appeared first on Matador Network.
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