Matador Network's Blog, page 7
September 3, 2025
One of the Cheapest Weeks for International Flights Is Coming Up Fast
The key to finding the best flight deal isn’t all that different from trying to avoid traffic: you want to be going in a different direction than everyone else. Every November, the headlines tell a familiar story of crowded airports in the United States, sold-out flights, and sky-high airfare. Thanksgiving is widely considered one of the most expensive times of year to fly — if you’re flying domestically. But while most Americans are traveling across the country, a smaller group of travelers is quietly taking advantage of one of the cheapest international flight windows of the year.
Since the pandemic, my wife and I have spent Thanksgiving weeks outside the country as much as in. We still mark the day with great food, of course, it just looks a little different. A mole class and outdoor feast in Oaxaca one year, endless seafood with our toddler in Tokyo’s Tsukiji Fish Market another. The flights always come at a discount compared to almost any other time of the year, and the work week is already short to maximize time off.
In 2024, the Transportation Security Administration screened more than 3 million passengers on the Sunday after Thanksgiving — a single-day record at the time. Yet while the domestic terminals are filled with stressed families who may have just had their gravy taken going through security, the international terminals have room for activities in my experience at my home airport in Denver.
Mexico, Japan, and every other country doesn’t observe America’s Thanksgiving, so demand for international travel is relatively low. As a result, fares to global destinations often drop at the same time domestic prices peak.
How much cheaper is international Thanksgiving travel?
Waiting on our direct flight from Denver to Tokyo. Photo: Nickolaus Hines
In 2024, Hopper reported that the average trip to Mexico or Canada during Thanksgiving week started at $400 when purchased in October. For Europe, the flights averaged under $600. That said, there were many round-trip flights to Spain, Denmark, and Costa Rica for about $400. That’s compared to an average of nearly $900 to get to Europe during the summer high season.
Exactly which day you fly matters, too, and you can typically find even lower prices if you’re flexible on dates. The best deals are on Thanksgiving day itself, while the worst travel days are the Wednesday before and the Sunday after.
Thanksgiving falls squarely within the shoulder season for much of the world. Destinations are past their summer peak but not yet into the winter holiday surge. When paired with low outbound demand from the US, that creates a rare alignment: low competition for international seats and modest pricing incentives from airlines.
In some cases, travelers booking just a few weeks in advance may find last-minute international deals. Data from WowFare shows international fares can drop 10 to 20 percent in the final weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, especially on off-peak travel days.
Finding the perfect Thanksgiving week flightThanksgiving week travel abroad isn’t for everyone, of course. But if you’ve got a flexible schedule, a family that doesn’t care if they see you on the actual day, and you’re willing to swap tradition for a new adventure, it’s well worth exploring.
If you’re considering an international trip during Thanksgiving week, a few tactics can maximize both value and convenience. First, booking in advance is still the best practice. While last-minute deals exist, most low international fares appear in September and early October.
Second, fly on Thanksgiving Day if you can when the fares are the lowest. Use a fare-tracking tool like Google Flights (or its new AI-powered cheap flights finder) to time it right regardless of which day you depart.
Most importantly, you’ll want to avoid layovers in the US. Domestic congestion can still impact international itineraries, and defeats part of the whole purpose behind going international for the week in the first place. 
Ditch City Life for Coastal Calm at This All-Suite Beach Resort in Greater LA
A fortress greeted me as my Uber pulled up. Spanish Revival architecture loomed overhead, its terracotta tones glowing in the sun as I stepped out into the sleek, elegant valet area. The moment my car door opened, the smell of saltwater and the sound of ocean waves wrapped around me — a reminder that I was exactly where I wanted to be: the beach. It’s a feeling I’d been missing since I moved from Fort Lauderdale to Los Angeles.
The best part is that this tranquil beach is only a short trip from Los Angeles. In under two hours, you can step away from the city’s hustle and bustle and escape to Oxnard, a true beach town — pastel-colored houses, flip-flops, and soft sand included. That’s where you’ll find the sanctuary that is Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton.
Inside Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach
Photos: Sage Causie
The first thing you’ll notice when you arrive at Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach is the design. Popular in California, the resort’s Spanish Revival style blends colonial and modern elements. The palette pulls from the natural world, with shades ranging from light to deep terracotta and medium to dark earthy tones. You see it in the grand staircase that greets you, the wrought-iron fixtures, the cannons at the front of the resort, and the graceful arched walkways. It feels like you’re about to embark on a new adventure the moment you step into the lobby.
Inside, the resort is calm and quiet, so much so that I found myself curling up by the lobby fireplace’s warmth after one evening out. The pool area is the heart of the property. You’ll pass it as you make your way to your room, surrounded by cabanas, a jacuzzi, and plenty of lounge seating that’s both family-friendly and welcoming for solo travelers. The design sensibility continues here, with stone fireplaces around the pool and restaurant area, paired with plush chairs to sink into. In the evenings, the glow of string lights and the warmth of the fireplaces make the courtyard feel like its own little village. By day, the same path takes you past the pool to the open gates of the beach, where soft sand and the sound of waves are only steps away.
The rooms at Zachari Dunes Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach
Photos: Sage Causie
After taking in the view of the beach on my first day, I headed inside to my suite, which became my own private escape within the large calm of the resort. My room was peace within peace. After socializing with the resort staff and guests, I’d retreat to my beach-view suite and relax. There’s something about falling asleep to the sound of real waves that no YouTube “ocean waves” playlist can match. Waking up to that natural soundtrack was the perfect reset. My two-bedroom suite included a sofa bed, a balcony, and a coffee maker, which made for the ideal slow morning ritual, sipping coffee while watching the waves roll in.
It’s that kind of slow morning that makes you realize how easily Zachari Dunes at Mandalay Beach adapts to different kinds of travelers. All of the rooms are suites, allowing for flexibility in group size, and the property is pet-friendly — I saw plenty of guests enjoying the grounds with their dogs (though pets aren’t allowed in the restaurant). You can choose from beach-facing rooms with ocean views or courtside rooms overlooking the pool and courtyard, with rates ranging from $293 to $400 per night depending on the room type. If you’re looking to splurge or traveling with a family in tow, residential suites are available for around $2,000 a night.
Activities and amenities at Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach
Photo: Sage Causie
As someone who likes having plenty to do, I appreciated the variety of resort amenities. Beyond the pool and jacuzzi, there’s a dive-bar-style lounge that doubles as a game room and a full-service spa where signs remind guests to be mindful during treatments. I loved that small touch — it shows how intentional the resort is about creating a relaxing environment. Another detail that stuck with me is that there are wipes provided for you right by the entrance after you leave the beach.
The same thoughtful approach extends to how you explore the area. On property, Henry’s Rentals offers six-seater bikes, electric bikes, and cruisers. Rentals prices range from $16 to $45 depending on the bike type. Since I love a daily walk (or ride) I opted for a cruiser, which let me explore the beach town at my own pace.The bike paths here are wide enough for three or four people to ride side by side, making the whole area feel pedestrian-friendly. You can ride along the coast, loop around the back of the resort, or head to the park next door, where you’ll find hotel guests with their kids on the playground or others in a morning yoga class. It’s tranquil, with everyone soaking up the ocean air or enjoying the park’s greenery.
Dining at Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach
Photo: Sage Causie
After working up an appetite, the on-site dining didn’t disappoint. The main restaurant is called Ox and Ocean, where the lobster roll and grapefruit cocktail were the perfect post-activity meal. The resort describes the restaurant as a place “where land meets sea,” highlighting locally sourced ingredients and fresh Pacific seafood where possible. This is most evident in the dinner offerings (Ox and Ocean also serves breakfast, brunch, and lunch) with the menu split into three categories: farm (think organic green salad or crispy potatoes), ocean (think crab cakes or halibut with leeks and lentils), and ranch (think steak tartare or half Jidori chicken).
The resort also has an Airstream turned food truck called Sugar Beats that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On Tuesdays, it hosts Taco Tuesday with two tacos and a margarita for $15. Ox and Ocean also offers happy hour Sunday through Thursday (the chili sesame wings for $10 are worth it), and the restaurant recently won an award for its menu. The manager told me they plan to bring live music on certain nights, which would fit perfectly with the relaxed atmosphere.
Excursions and events at Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach
Photos: Sage Causie
When I wasn’t indulging in the food, I was out exploring the coast. The resort partners with Channel Islands Expeditions, an independent outfitter located about a five-minute drive or 15-minute walk from Zachari Dunes. From there, guests depart from a public pier to begin their adventures.
The package I chose was the Epic Sea Cave Kayak and Snorkel Combo, an eight-hour excursion ($265 for adults). It’s a full-day experience, so be sure to pack lunch, water, and snacks, though the crew provides wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and fins to ensure that everyone is well-prepared to get up close with the ocean and its wildlife.
The day starts with kayaking into the dramatic sea caves, and because the water was calm that day, it was the perfect introduction for a first-timer like me. After exploring the caves, we traveled about 10 minutes by boat to a second location where we had the option to snorkel. If you’re not comfortable getting in the water, you can relax on the boat and enjoy the snacks you’ve packed (be sure to bring lunch since it’s a long day out).
As someone who’s both afraid of water and the dark, I was surprised at how safe and supported I felt thanks to the crew. Breathing in the ocean air, slipping through caves carved by nature, and snorkeling among marine life was unforgettable — the kind of adventure that makes you feel both small and completely alive.
When I returned from my kayaking adventure, the resort’s courtyard was alive with music from a DJ and the chatter of guests and locals mingling. I had stumbled into the Summer Market, a monthly event where tables and booths showcase handmade jewelry, screen-printed shirts, and other crafts from local makers. It’s held on the second Tuesday of each month from 3:30 to 6:30 PM. Beginning in the fall, the event will take on a festive twist as the resort renames it the Holiday Marketplace for the rest of the year. The market felt like discovering a hidden part of the town’s creative scene, a space where the resort opens its doors to the community and gives travelers the chance to bring home something truly local.
On my last night, I went back to Ox and Ocean, greeted again by the friendly team. By then, Zachari Dunes felt like home — I knew the curve of the walk to the restaurant, the sound of kids playing by the pool, the laughter of families gathered by the firepits. It was the perfect reset from city life. I ended my evening by the firepit, letting the sound of the waves carry me into my final night’s sleep.
On the morning of checkout, I made one last stop at Ox and Ocean for a latte to go, savoring the moment before heading back to reality.
8 Telltale Signs That a Fall Trip to Penticton Is Perfect for You
Summer vacation never quite feels long enough. If fall travel is already calling your name, listen closely, because it might be saying “Penticton.” Fall in Penticton, BC, is a time when summer’s magic lingers, but the bulk of vacationers don’t, making for an easygoing getaway in the shoulder season. Adventure and relaxation come together in perfect harmony on the shores of Okanagan Lake, and you’re invited. There are countless reasons to visit Penticton any time of year, but here are eight signs that fall is your ideal season.
1. Wearing a sweater, swimsuit, and hiking boots all in the same day sounds like perfection.
Photo: Destination BC / Hubert Kang
In Penticton, sunny September days reach 21°C (70°F), and crisp lake dips feel so good after robust hikes on less-crowded trails. Hop on the Kettle Valley Rail Trail for the Smethurst to Little Tunnel hike. It snakes along Okanagan Lake and culminates at Little Tunnel, with sweeping views stretching to Skaha Lake and up toward Peachland. While this makes for a satisfying turnaround point, the KVR continues its journey past the tunnel, all the way to Chute Lake and eventually north to the famed trestles of Myra Canyon near Kelowna.
Meanwhile, on the south end of Penticton, you can cool off with a dip at Skaha Lake Park and Skaha Lake Beach — named one of Canada’s best for its soft sand, calm waters, and lush shoreline.
2. Wine hopping beats club nights any day of the week.
Photo: Visit Penticton
Use Penticton as your hub to explore the South Okanagan-Similkameen Valley, home to numerous wineries, two cideries, and a distillery. Orchards and vineyards dominate the landscape, with a definite tilt toward organic farming, and the valley’s sun-soaked summers help to create the perfect conditions for growing premium grapes and fruit. To check out multiple locations in one go (and leave the transport to someone else), book a small-group outing with Grape Friends Lounge & Tours. They run a variety of set tours or allow you to customize your own, all departing from Penticton with pickup and dropoff directly at your accommodations.
3. You like to earn your views.
Photo: Chris Stenberg / Visit Penticton
Penticton has the longest rock climbing season in the country, stretching all the way into November. If you’re a first-timer, Skaha Rock Adventures and Hoodoo Adventure Company can show you the ropes. Skaha Bluffs is one of Canada’s top climbing destinations, with straightforward access to some 1,200 established climbing routes — easy, moderate, and advanced. Plus, it’s just 10 minutes south of downtown Penticton.
4. Patios are better in sweater weather.
Photo: Poplar Grove
From the casual Dog Park at Yellow Dog Brewing to the upscale OROLO Restaurant & Cocktail Bar, the Penticton area plays host to more than 40 spaces for al fresco dining. On the waterfront downtown, check out The Hooded Merganser, Socialē Enotēca by Villa Rosa, or Elma. Local favourites also include Poplar Grove Winery in Naramata Beach, Brodo Kitchen, The Bench Market, and The Kitchen at Da Silva Vineyards & Winery, which serves tapas with a Mexican-Portuguese twist. Chow down on grilled chorizo, braised cabbage in tomato sauce, and the walnut and chickpea spread with roasted garlic.
5. You love it when someone suggests where to eat.
Photo: JoieFarm Winery
A stellar harvest in 2025 means exceptional flavours this fall, and Penticton’s Flavour Trail Passes take away the angst of decision-making. Here’s how it works: select from one of four passes and sign up — it takes all of 30 seconds. You’ll receive a text with your itinerary, starting with where to go for breakfast. Check in on your phone to receive prizes and coupons. It’s a win, win!
6. A sustainable stay is on your radar.
Photo: Evan Wishloff / Visit Penticton
Penticton’s “Fuel Free … Almost” initiative encourages visitors to choose more planet-friendly ways to get from point A to point B. And with under five miles between the north and south ends of the city, you’ll find yourself just steps away from where you want to be. Grab some pedal power at one of the bike rental shops such as Rover, and explore the loop around Skaha Lake. To get on the water, rent a paddleboard from Sun N’Sup in Naramata or a kayak from Pier Water Sports and take in the million-dollar views. Throughout the area, local operators offer shuttle services to wineries and outdoor experiences, and the public buses all include a place to store your bike.
7. You appreciate culture as much as the outdoors.
Photo: Visit Penticton
For over 7,000 years, the region around Penticton has been home to the syilx Okanagan Nation. Do a deep dive into local history and culture at the Penticton Museum & Archives, or learn from Anona Kampe of the Penticton Indian Band by attending one of the sessions she facilitates, including everything from beading workshops to educational nature walks.
While you’re in town, make sure to plan time for a visit to the SS Sicamous Museum and Heritage Park on the shores of Okanagan Lake to see the largest surviving sternwheeler in all of Canada. And for an active cultural experience, follow the Sculpture Walk along colourful Front Street and downtown Penticton. The artwork is refreshed each year, so there’s always something new and memorable to see.
8. It’s always a good time for a brew.
Photo: Evan Wishloff / Visit Penticton
October brings BC Craft Beer Month, a great excuse for a fall trip to Penticton. Come find out why Lonely Planet named the city Canada’s Craft Beer Capital. Penticton’s breweries, known collectively as the Penticton Beer Blocks, offer a revolving menu of porters, IPAs, saisons, and stouts, accompanied by impressive eats and an always-relaxed atmosphere.
PLAN YOUR FALL GETAWAY NOW
Photo: Visit Penticton
The anytime-playground of Penticton is waiting for you to visit this shoulder season. Make it easy with a package or put together your own itinerary, starting with where you want to stay, what you want to see, and where you want to eat and drink. Get inspired with these itineraries — whether it’s three days of family fun, a downtown culinary trail, or a classic Naramata Bench wine country tour — and get ready for your perfect fall vacation in Penticton.
A Fun-Filled Road Trip Guide to New Jersey’s Quirkiest Sights
Arguably the most common question you’ll pose to your vehicle-mates on a road trip through New Jersey is: “What exit?” The answer is important, of course, but there are no wrong ones. Each turnoff will lead you somewhere memorable, oftentimes to sights you wouldn’t expect. From whimsical art and kitschy roadside landmarks to venues reminiscent of bygone eras, the Garden State is full of eclectic and creative places to point your wheels. Here are just a few.
Oddities Worth a Detour
Photo: FotosForTheFuture/Shutterstock
Celebrate the state’s greats…New Jersey’s two main thoroughfares are the NJ Turnpike (NJTP) and the Garden State Parkway (GSP), each with its own set of south-north exits. Between these exits, you’ll find service areas named in honor of famous New Jerseyans. On the NJTP, they pay homage to the American revolutionary figure Molly Pitcher, famed inventor Thomas Edison, and legendary football coach Vince Lombardi (who once coached at a high school in Englewood).
In 2021, the GSP’s pit stops were renamed to honor more recent notables, including the late Sopranos star James Gandolfini, iconic Newark-born singer Whitney Houston, and rock legend Jon Bon Jovi.
…along with its quirkiest icons.On smaller highways, things take a wacky turn, with eccentric statues popping up in unexpected places. Take “Mighty Joe,” a 25-foot gorilla that stands guard at a grill, deli, and gas station in Shamong (between NJTP Exit 7 and GSP Exit 44). In Blackwood, off NJTP Exit 3, the 18-foot “Nitro Girl” hoists a giant tire for local business Werbany Tire Town.
Then there are the “muffler men,” 1960s-era advertising statues with rigid postures and outstretched arms, each uniquely dressed. Near NJTP Exit 2, there’s one outfitted as a cowboy for a rodeo and farmer’s market in Pilesgrove. In Hammonton, between NJTP Exit 3 and GSP Exit 38B, one called “Mr. Bill” sells ice cream and burgers. And beyond NJTP Exit 15E in Jersey City, there’s another dressed like Paul Bunyan — only instead of chopping lumber, he’s hawking carpets.
Lights, Camera, Jersey
Photo: Gerain0812/Shutterstock
Track down your favorite filming locations…Driving around New Jersey, you might spot something that feels oddly familiar. Then it hits you: you’ve seen it on the big screen. That’s because New Jersey has served as the location for many film and TV shoots. In the pre-Hollywood age, Fort Lee (NJTP Exit 18W) was America’s film capital between 1910 and 1920, and the state has continued to make its way into a ton of media in the years since.
Today, you can visit Sopranos landmarks like a pizza shop in North Arlington and a gentlemen’s club in Lodi (off GSP Exits 153B and 157). There’s also the unassuming Quick Stop in Leonardo (GSP Exit 117), which would just be your normal run-of-the-mill convenience store — unless you’ve seen Kevin Smith’s cult classic, Clerks.
…and the place where Martians made headlines.Before video killed the radio star, Orson Welles was one of the greatest talents of American radio programming. In 1938, along with a cast of four voice actors, he caused nationwide panic with a seemingly real-life performance of a radio play adapted from H.G. Wells’ The War of the Worlds. Listeners were convinced that Martians had landed on Earth and were attacking humans — starting in, of all places on the planet, Grovers Mill (NJTP Exit 8A). A bronze memorial was erected there in 1988 to commemorate the infamous hoax.
Those more familiar with Steven Spielberg’s 2005 film version of War of the Worlds will appreciate that the director brought the imaginary alien invasion back to its Jersey roots by setting the first attack in Bayonne (NJTP Exit 14A). Previous Hollywood adaptations had moved ground zero to California.
19th-Century Time Warps
Photo: Fotogro/Shutterstock
Hop between Gilded Age glamor…At the southernmost tip of the state (GSP Exit 0), Cape May is an anomaly among Jersey Shore towns. Just blocks from the beach, there’s a preserved Victorian district with more than 600 historic buildings. A casual stroll takes you back in time through architectural history, with mansions, old banks and hotels, and grand halls. While their interiors have been repurposed for life in present-day Jersey, the Victorian exteriors are so well-preserved that the Cape May Historic District was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976.
…and the Wild West, Jersey style.Another 1800s time warp awaits at Wild West City, an Old West theme park tucked away in rural Sussex County, just off several GSP and NJTP exits. Open since 1957, it still celebrates classic Western tropes — think spaghetti Westerns and Bonanza — with a dusty main street that doubles as a stage for daily performances by cowboy and cowgirl reenactors. Family-friendly skits like shootouts, robberies, and can-can routines unfold between stagecoach and pony rides and live music in the old saloon.
The Shore Like You’ve Never Seen It
Photo: Jeffrey Anthony Colberg/Shutterstock
Get a little retro…For a different kind of throwback, head to Wildwood Crest, North Wildwood, and Wildwood (GSP Exits 4–6). These three adjacent beach towns scream 1950s and ’60s, with around 50 vintage motels still standing in the Doo Wop Motel District (officially the Wildwoods Shore Resort Historic District). Kitschy plastic palm trees line the streets by day, while buzzing neon signs light up Ocean Avenue at night, just as they did during Doo Wop’s heyday.
In fact, Wildwood was such a part of that musical era that it’s believed to be the birthplace of “The Twist,” the dance phenomenon that swept the nation (and the world) when Chubby Checker started performing his cover of the corresponding song in 1960 at Wildwood’s Rainbow Club. Though the club is gone, a museum — complete with a Neon Sign Garden — keeps the era alive across from today’s convention center.
…and visit a timeless landmark.Driving through Margate off GSP Exit 36, one question is bound to cross your mind: Can we talk about the elephant outside the room? That would be Lucy, the self-proclaimed “World’s Greatest Elephant” — a six-story, elephant-shaped building originally constructed in 1881 by a real estate developer to attract potential buyers. Known then as the “Elephant Bazaar,” Lucy changed hands in 1902, was renamed to reflect her identity as female, and even operated as a tavern for a time.
After falling into disrepair and facing demolition, a “Save Lucy” committee formed in 1970 to raise funds for her relocation and restoration. Now a National Historic Landmark, Lucy welcomes curious visitors inside and offers plenty of elephant-themed souvenirs.
Not Your Average Gallery Crawl
Photo: Photo Spirit/Shutterstock
Stroll an open-air museum…Opened in 1992, Grounds for Sculpture is a 42-acre campus in the Trenton suburb of Hamilton (NJTP Exits 7 and 7A) with a sculpture park dedicated to the rotating exhibition and year-round celebration of over 300 contemporary works by established and emerging sculptors. There’s also a museum with a few indoor galleries for more intimate exhibitions, not to mention a flock of peacocks that roams the grounds.
If you’re not into the arts, come hungry. The grounds are not only a feast for the eyes but also for the stomach at Rat’s Restaurant — named after the character from The Wind in the Willows. This romantic, French-inspired eatery serves farm-to-table fare in a setting that’s right out of France, including on an outdoor patio that evokes one of Monet’s “Water Lilies” paintings.
…and step into surrealism.Driving toward Luna Parc in rural Sandyston in northwestern New Jersey — way beyond NJTP Exit 18 or GSP Exit 145 — it appears you’ve entered a whimsical, mythical destination out of a storybook. It’s actually the residence and art studio of its creator, Ricky Boscarino, a “madcap artist” who blends eclectic motifs that sometimes resemble sets from Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice or Alice in Wonderland, or the mosaics of Gaudí’s Park Güell in Barcelona, all wrapped in Pee Wee Herman’s playhouse. The interiors are just as fanciful in every room.
Note: You can’t simply ring the doorbell and poke around. Boscarino only opens to the public for inside tours on certain days of the year, so be sure to check his Facebook page for tour dates.
From towering roadside art and Victorian time capsules to quirky museums and hidden sculpture gardens, New Jersey is far more than meets the eye. Pack your curiosity, hit the exits, and find out what unexpected wonders await in the Garden State.
September 2, 2025
You Could Get Unlimited Flights Until 2027 for $299. Here’s How.
The idea of being able to travel anywhere on a whim with no concerns about the cost is a dream for many travelers. And on September 2, Frontier Airlines introduced something that will help those with a little flexibility step toward that dream. The airline launched early access to its 2026–2027 “GoWild! All‑You‑Can‑Fly Annual Pass” at a significantly reduced rate: $299, instead of the usual $599. For travelers ready to embrace spontaneity and last-minute travel, it could be the steal of the year. The pass will be on sale for the foreseeable future, but the $299 rate is only available until September 5, 2025.
Frontier launched the All-You-Can-Fly Pass in 2022, using it initially as a domestic-only offering to fill empty seats. But now, the pass crosses borders, including destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. It effectively offers unlimited base fares of $0.01 per segment, plus taxes, fees, and other add-ons. Usually, the pass is good for one year of travel, but the pass available to start using now doesn’t expire until May 2027, giving buyers access to an extra eight months of nearly free flying.
Add-on perks like seat selection or carry-on luggage aren’t included. Photo: Frontier Airlines
Travelers snagging a pass will need to abide by a handful of practical limitations. Domestic flights open for booking by passholders just one day before departure, while international itineraries become available 10 days out. Occasionally, Frontier lets passholders book select flights earlier, though an “early booking fee” may apply. This means you won’t be able to make travel plans very far in advance, and may have to rethink your plans if the flight you wanted sells out. Additionally, add-ons like checked luggage, carry-ons, and seat assignments aren’t included, unless you have Elite status with the airline. It’s only good for economy seating, not Upfront Plus.
There are also dozens of blackout dates, mostly clustered around popular holidays. And if you decide to skip your flight, since it only cost $0.01, know that you could be charged a no-show penalty of up to $100, or potentially have your pass revoked. All routes are included.
Given the stipulations, the All-You-Can-Fly Pass is probably the most beneficial for location-independent workers, students on school breaks, freelancers, and anyone who can travel with limited notice.
Why is Frontier offering such a good deal?
The offer could be part of a strategy to pull customers away from struggling Spirit Airlines. Photo: Spirit Airlines
From Frontier’s perspective, the pass isn’t just about brand loyalty and building goodwill with flyers. The airline reported a $70 million deficit in the second quarter of 2025, and announced that labor, fuel, and maintenance costs spiked its operational costs to $219 million in the first half of 2025, compared to $13 million in the first half of 2024. Sales of the All-You-Can-Fly pass mean revenue from flyers upfront, and are a good way to ensure buyers choose Frontier for the next 18 months, buying add-on services each time they fly. It could also be a play to capture travelers wary about flying the country’s other main low-cost airline — Spirit Airlines — which has battled bankruptcy off and on for the last year.
Alaska offers its own version of a flight pass. Photo: Alaska Airlines
Frontier isn’t the only airline with this type of offer, though they’re not common. Alaska Airlines sells a Flight Pass that includes a set number of roundtrip flights with a monthly fee, including baggage and seat fees. It covers routes in California, Nevada, Arizona, and Utah, and starts at $69 per month. In Europe, Wizz Air offers an annual All-You-Can-Fly pass at a fixed monthly fee, with a three-day booking window and multiple pricing tiers based on what extra perks you choose.
The original “All-You-Can-Fly” concept was launched by American Airlines in the 1980s. It sold a lifetime unlimited first-class pass for $250,000, plus an optional $150,000 to add a companion pass. It was designed to raise capital, but eventually cost the airline millions in lost revenue. It sold only 28 passes, but those buyers made good use of their purchases. Two buyers alone each flew the equivalent of $1 million in flights per year, eventually costing the airline millions. (American revoked both their passes in 2008).
Go Here, Not There: Sri Lanka Is a Culturally Rich Alternative to Bali’s Tourist Crowds
It was a typically balmy day in Weligama, where the rhythm of everyday life is slowly changing. Stray dogs were still frolicking along endless stretches of golden sand and tourists lingered in the shade of towering palm trees, sipping water from the ubiquitous king coconut. Young surfers, or “beach boys” as they’re locally known, came and went from view as they became one with the waves of the vast Indian Ocean. In the distance, a choon paan mobile bakery touted the likes of jaggery cake and spiced potato buns.
The southern coast of Sri Lanka is still rural, but there’s a shift happening, perceptible only to those who remember the days when the region’s incredible, empty waves and sleepy fishing villages felt like a secret few were privy to.
Weligama, on Sri Lanka’s southern coast. Photo: Mikadun/Shutterstock
Today, cafes across Weligama, Unawatuna, Ahangama, and Arugam Bay awash with rattan furniture, jute accents, and neutral colors are slowly replacing authentic food stalls and family-run grocery stores, catering to backpackers with avocado toasts and smoothie bowls. It’s no wonder that this South Asian island nation is increasingly referred to as Bali 2.0. Influencers who post boho hotspots like Cac Tus, Kai, and Nomad as examples of places “giving Bali energy” may intend the analogy as praise, but Sri Lankans are far from flattered. Beyond the sameness of Bali’s tired aesthetic, it implies negative stereotypes that residents are disinclined to embrace.
Also taking a hit are locally owned businesses, priced out of tourist areas as a result of increased competition from unregistered ventures owned by foreigners who have overstayed their visas. Others are working illegally in roles like DJs, bartenders, yoga teachers, or surf instructors, evading taxes in the process. It comes at a time when tourism is seen by many as a lifeline for the country’s economy following years of political and economic upheaval, from the Easter attacks of 2019 to the sovereign default of 2022.
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Unprecedented discrimination against locals is another unwelcome consequence. Signs reading “foreigners only” have recently been spotted everywhere from beachside guesthouses to massage parlors and souvenir stores. Collectively, these changes are inevitably altering the area’s character and raising a major question: who is reaping the benefits of Sri Lanka’s growing tourism industry?
“As a country, we have not given enough consideration to the boom of location-independent work and the challenges that come with it,” reflects Sri Lankan travel creator Shenelle Rodrigo. She thinks it’s important that the island welcomes workers from abroad, but not at the expense of compromising its development or authenticity. “There definitely needs to be on-the-ground monitoring to ensure that policies [to protect] both the environment and livelihood of locals are followed.”
The relentless comparisons to Bali further stem from the Sri Lankan government’s push to attract four million tourists by 2029. In the face of limited resources, experts and locals have raised concerns around an abrupt increase in tourist arrivals, citing the Indonesian island as a cautionary tale about the steep costs of overtourism.
But it’s not all bleak. As the country stands at a crossroads and works towards ensuring that tourism uplifts rather than displaces Indigenous people, community-based tourism offerings are defying the narrative that Sri Lanka is the new Bali.
Photo: Soul & Surf Sri Lanka
Taking up residence on a secluded cove in Ahangama, Soul & Surf “quietly weaves mindfulness” into everything it does, according to co-founder Ed Templeton. The boutique retreat has been a mainstay in Sri Lanka’s surf scene since 2014. The tropical island has more than 800 miles of coastline, warm water, year-round swells, and a range of breaks suitable for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
Most of Soul & Surf’s lodging packages are focused on surfing and yoga, with the idea of bringing like-minded people together, both on and off the waves. Guests spend their days surfing, participating in beach cleanups, and joining relaxed yoga sessions, while its Sunday “sunset sessions” draw locals, expats, and tourists as a DJ spins a set as relaxed as the surroundings. Most employees and instructors are Sri Lankan. It’s hip and beachy, yes — but it’s an intentionally different vibe from what you’d find at a Bali beach club.
“Having been to Bali and observing foreigners exploit the tourism boom, [wife] Sofie and I took a vow to leave behind at least a slightly positive legacy,” recalls Templeton. It’s one reason that Soul & Surf works with How We Grow, a foundation dedicated to nurturing rural communities through vocational training, social programs, and sustainable support systems.
The surf retreat also hosts a monthly event during which the area’s residents are invited to play games, share a communal meal, and hop aboard a boogie board. “Locals can sometimes feel reluctant to walk into a foreign-owned space, but it’s their community and their area, so it’s one of those things that just makes sense,” he adds. “We take a grassroots approach and try to support existing initiatives in a way that feels natural to us.”
Photo: Amanda Prifti/SeaSisters
A mere five miles east, a different kind of surf revolution is taking shape in Weligama. There, it’s a common sight to see fishermen balancing on narrow wooden stilts planted into the ocean floor, fishing in the shallows for hours as they have for nearly a century. It’s also the base for SeaSisters, a non-profit organization founded on a core belief yet to permeate the rest of Sri Lanka: that the ocean is for everyone.
Driven by the idea that swimming and surfing can be tools for creating social change, SeaSisters offers free lessons to Sri Lankan girls and women from coastal villages in an all-female environment. Traditional gender norms in Sri Lanka dictate that a young woman’s place is in the home. That makes not only the ocean, but also the economic opportunities of a thriving surf tourism industry out of reach, particularly in rural areas. But every mother, daughter, or student who joins the Swim and Surf program is one step closer to a more inclusive surf culture throughout the country.
SeaSisters also fosters connections between visitors and locals through ongoing tourism offerings. “Tourism often occurs in a ‘bubble,’ but we believe in building bridges between travelers and locals through shared perspectives and experiences,” explains co-founder Martina Burtscher. “Our workshops offer tourists the chance to dive deep into Sri Lankan culture, hearing the inspiring stories of coastal women who have reclaimed the ocean and surf tourism as a space for themselves. Participants also receive tips on how to be a more conscious traveler.”
Photo: Siriwan Champorn/SeaSisters
Attend the signature Cultural Waves workshop, and you’ll engage in an ocean meditation circle, gain insights into why the 2004 tsunami continues to incite aquaphobia, and learn how the organization’s work has changed the lives of local facilitators. The shorter “Intercultural Women’s Circle” workshop teaches expression through movement, with guided meditation and a sharing circle. Both are offered a few times per month and available to book through area hotels and surf retreat operators. SeaSisters is currently working on its plans for the upcoming season, but plans to continue its free sunset picnics, designed as a chance for visitors and locals to meet the SeaSisters themselves and learn more about what they’re trying to achieve.
All activities are a chance to support SeaSisters and help create meaningful change for generations to come. “If I know how to swim, I’ll make sure that my daughters do, too,” says Himaya Hewamadduma, one of the area’s first local women to qualify as a swim instructor. “Being in the water means freedom, so I’ve always wanted to teach kids how to swim and surf.”
Photo: Amba Yaalu Kandalama
Further afield, Amba Yaalu in central Sri Lanka is making waves in a different way: the resort on a mango plantation is the country’s first hotel fully managed and staffed by women.
“Amba Yaalu is more than a hotel: it is a movement,” says Subhashini Paul, director of administration at Thema Collection, which operates 13 other resorts throughout the country. She notes that the recent economic crisis made it hard for women to secure reliable sources of income, leading many to move abroad. “That’s when Amba Yaalu was envisioned as a sustainable solution, allowing them to stay close to their families while contributing to their communities.”
The property directly and indirectly provides employment for women, embedding each stay in responsible tourism practices. By day, you could be dining at Bioscope on sautéed mushrooms — a dish made possible thanks to a group of local women hired by the hotel to grow them nearby. By night, you could be refueling with a tangy tamarind mojito whipped up by a female bartender at Yaka Bar.
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Sitting inland, close to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple and the imposing Sigiriya rock fortress, Amba Yaalu is every bit as appealing as resorts across Bali, but with much quieter surroundings. “Sri Lanka’s soul lives beyond the shoreline,” adds Paul, who sees the hotel’s remote location as a selling point. “Journeying inland is not a detour — it places you at the heart of our cultural and ecological richness.”
While Bali certainly has culture-centric experiences in place, Sri Lanka’s increasing focus on ensuring local communities are involved in developing the tourism sector sets it apart from the Indonesian hot spot. Rodrigo notes that while there are some similarities between the two, the island shouldn’t fall into the trap of just attracting tourists looking for surfing, sand, and beach parties. “It would be terrible for our tourism industry if we followed suit in developing Sri Lanka to attract just one kind of tourist,” she says. “The island’s magic, it’s in the small things. So come with no expectations — just curiosity.”
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September 1, 2025
7 Decadent, Cocktail-Inspired Spa Treatments From Around the World
Imagine a fall afternoon spent sipping a mojito in Havana or a Negroni on a sun-soaked terrace in Florence. But now, change the surroundings to a luxury spa, and imagine not just drinking the cocktail, but having its fresh ingredients used throughout the spa treatment.
Around the world, luxury resorts and boutique wellness centers are taking inspiration from cocktail culture, translating classic drinks into sensory spa experiences designed not just for wellness, but for indulgence. Ingredients like cocktail salt can be used to exfoliate, the citrus slice that garnishes your glass can make your skin glow, and raw honey can help keep your skin moisturized and soft. From Japan to Texas, a growing number of cocktail-inspired spa treatments are borrowing not just the aromas of your favorite cocktails, but the ingredients, too.
While it’s easy to write them off as novelty treatments designed to bring in curious travelers, there may be more to the story. Modern, experiential travel is about more than just checking tourist attractions off one’s list, and in the last 20 years, gastronomy-focused and wellness-focused travel have become much more popular. And what better way to blend travel, gastronomy, and wellness than by hitting a resort that uses locally grown and fresh ingredients not just in its restaurants, but in its spa, too?
When you’re ready to try something new, these are seven of the most exciting cocktail-inspired spa treatments around the world that serve up wellness based on your favorite libations.
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While Bali may not be known for producing vodka, the lush conditions mean all the other ingredients of a Bloody Mary, like tomatoes, spices, and citrus, thrive on the island. And at the Iridium Spa at The St. Regis Bali Resort, spa pros have reimagined the classic cocktail as a lengthy wellness ritual. The 150-minute service blends the tasty cocktail with the kind of lavish luxury you expect from a luxury resort spa. The treatment starts with a body scrub made from tomato, pineapple, and a touch of wasabi to brighten your skin (and activate your senses), followed by a vodka-and-tomato clay wrap — supposedly a detoxifying combo. After a relaxing massage, guests get to soak in a bath infused with tomato, vermouth, and mineral salts.
If you want to take it a step further, you can add on one of the best possible pairings for a Bloody Mary: freshly shucked oysters, served after your treatment in the spa garden. It’s fun, playful, and wellness-focused, if a little indulgent (like many places in Bali). The service is priced at 7,400,000 Indonesian Rupiah, or about $450.
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Oakwell Beer Spa in Denver offers a rejuvenating — and certainly unique — experience with its signature Beer Bath Hydrotherapy. Guests soak in a cedar tub filled with warm water infused with the main ingredients in beer: hops, barley, and a blend of herbs designed by the spa’s herbalist. However, unlike with beer, the bath water is unfermented and free from yeast, making it better suited to soaking than drinking.
According to its proponents, the ingredients in beer can be pretty helpful for your skin. Hops promote relaxation and act as antioxidants with anti-inflammatory effects, while barley delivers vitamins and minerals to your skin and hair. Aromatic herbs add a soothing layer to the sensory experience, while soaking in warm water is bound to make sore muscles feel a bit better. Rooms and tubs are private, and yes, you can have local craft beer delivered while you soak. Oakwell has two locations in Denver, with treatments starting at $99 per person.
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The Bourbon Bubbler Body Treatment at Meritage Resort in Napa proves that the town is about more than just wine. The full-body treatment starts with a distilled Kentucky whiskey scrub, known for its antibacterial properties and ability to help control excess oils. After the scrub, guests are treated to a “Vanilla Bourbon Massage” focused on the feet, neck, and shoulders. Naturally, the service is paired with a shot of bourbon, too. Both singles and couples can book this 50-minute treatment, with pricing varying by day of the week.
The 50-minute treatment starts at $240 per person, with couples packages also available. And if whiskey isn’t your thing, the spa has another beverage-related service to serve as a pick-me-up: a coffee-inspired body scrub, with a touch of CBD oil to boot.
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The Rockhouse Hotel & Spa in Negril, Jamaica, has a spa menu heavy on local ingredients, with the Jamaican Mocha Rum Wrap as a standout option. This treatment applies a blend of natural products as a full-body skin wrap, including honey, mango, cocoa, shea butter, and rum, mixed with aromas like patchouli, orange, and cinnamon. The spa hosts many treatments in open-air spaces by the cliffs of Negril, with other treatments that lean on local botanicals like mint, ginger, and lemongrass.
As with many spa rituals tied to place, the rum wrap is less about clear wellness claims, and more about evoking a connection to rum’s history in Jamaica. It’s also one of the more affordable cocktail-inspired spa treatments you’ll find around the world, with the Rum Mocha wrap starting at just $90. There’s also a mint tea wrap, in case you’d rather focus on the non-boozy side of Jamaica’s beverage culture.
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Michigan may not be the first place you think of when you think of mojitos, but the Spa at Boyne Mountain may be the place to change that. It offers a regionally adapted spin on cocktail-inspired spa treatments, using a rosemary cleanser, followed by a mint and lime exfoliator, bound to give the whole room an aroma of margaritas. After the exfoliation, you’ll have a gentle rosemary massage to make sure your skin soaks up as much wellness as possible.
Mint is well-known for its stimulating properties and can help reduce muscle fatigue and refresh tired skin, while lime is known to be energizing. It’s likely one of the more aromatic treatments on this list, but it doesn’t stop at just the sense of smell: every Mountain Mojito Body Treatment comes with a mojito to sip on during services, too.
The treatment starts at $185, with add-ons like scalp treatments available for an additional $10-$20.
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The Four Seasons Kyoto offers a “Sake Bath” treatment that draws on Japan’s centuries-old traditions of sake as a beverage and cultural tradition, as well as a skincare ingredient. Though most Westerners know it as a beverage, it’s been used as a moisturizer for centuries. In Kyoto, the 30-minute soak uses sake brewed by Kitagawa Honke, a family-owned Kyoto brewery dating to the late 1600s. The sake itself is made from highly polished rice and pure local groundwater, and packed with amino acids to hydrate while stimulating circulation.
In Japanese wellness culture, sake baths are valued not only for their physical benefits, but as a way to encourage relaxation and renewal. There’s even a belief that sake can ward off negative energy, making the treatment a chance to experience a bathing ritual unique to Japan. A sake bath costs 16,000 yen, or about $160, but it’s only available as an add-on treatment, not a stand-alone service.
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You don’t need to travel to an expensive destination spa to take part in the cocktail-inspired spa trend, as evidenced by Fulshear Nails & Spa in Texas. The low-key nail salon offers a $75 “Mimosa Pedicure,” using actual champagne and orange-based products. It takes the word “bubbly” literally, with a fizzy champagne soak with “Detox Volcano Crystals,” and “bubbling volcano action.” In addition to the pedicure, it includes a 15-minute leg massage, in between extra treatments like an exfoliating orange scrub, a collagen cream foot mask, and even a paraffin wax treatment. Once you’re feeling totally relaxed, you’ve still got another 10 minutes of massage on the way, which you can choose to apply to your legs or your shoulders, if you want the Mimosa-inspired goodness to spread beyond your feet.
The service is a reasonable $78, with various add-ons available. It’s one of several seasonal, cocktail-inspired spa services the salon has introduced, with Instagram indicating the winter “Espresso Martini” nail treatments were a local hit.
From Night Markets to Midnight Teahouses: Taipei After Hours
At first impression, Taipei’s livability is its greatest draw: walkable neighborhoods, a world-class metro, and a vibrant street-level pulse. But what distinguishes it among the roster of mega-cities around the world is its clock-defying rhythm. Taipei isn’t just geographically accessible — two to three by air from Tokyo, Seoul, or Hong Kong, with multiple direct seasonal connections from Europe and North America (some seasonal) — it’s emotionally accessible, too. It’s a city in motion that never tips into chaos. Whether you land at 10 AM or 10 PM, you’ll find something open, something happening, and, always, something worth staying for.
This is Asia’s most convenient city that never sleeps. Not in a garish, neon-tinted way, but in a dynamic, grounded way. Night markets hum past 2 AM, late-night bookstores double as quiet social hubs, and mountaintop teahouses just outside the city keep the oolong flowing into the small hours. For travelers seeking rhythm, energy, and flexibility, Taipei delivers at all-hours – and beef noodle soup is always on the menu.
Markets and shopping | Late night transportation | Reading rooms and teahouses | Art and karaoke
Markets and shopping districts that come alive after dark
Photo: kitzcorner /Shutterstock
Taipei’s 24-hour culture is the product of infrastructure, planning the ubiquity of convenience stores, and a civic ethos that prizes spontaneity. That could mean a midnight movie in Ximending, roasted oolong on a misty hillside, or street food before an early-morning flight. It’s a city that respects your schedule, no matter what that schedule is. The pace is manageable, the choices are varied, and the logistics are frictionless. In a world where many global cities close early, Taipei is a world apart.
In terms of shopping, Taipei is no exception. The city’s retail culture is a force in itself, centered mainly around Ximending, Shilin Night Market, and the Eastern District, and extending to the recently booming Xinyi shopping area.
XimendingXimending, often dubbed the Harajuku of Taipei, is at its most electric in the early evening, when young crowds thread through lit-up alleys lined with sneaker boutiques, anime collectibles, and K-pop merch. Independent designers share the street with big names like UNIQLO and Adidas, while street performers and cafés keep the energy going past midnight.
Where to eat and shop in Ximending:
Ay-Chung Flour-Rice Noodles: Iconic for its thick, bonito-based broth with braised intestines and garlic sauce. You can adjust the seasoning to your taste, and the line moves fast.XING FU TANG: The signature Brown Sugar Bubble Thick Milk Tea combines hand-caramelized pearls with chewy boba and creamy milk.Spicy Hot Pot: For many celebrities in Taipei, hot pot is a must — a yin-yang pot of fiery chili and soothing broth, perfect for late-night sharing.ROBINMAY: A Taiwan bag brand loved by young locals for its affordable prices and unique designs, with its flagship store located in Ximending.The Red House (Honglou) bar area: The heart of Taipei’s LGBTQ+ nightlife, with the Rainbow Walkway symbolizing Taiwan’s diversity and inclusiveness.
Photo: Richie Chan /Shutterstock
Shilin Night MarketShilin Night Market, a short ride away on the MRT’s red line (Jiantan MRT Station), combines fashion with flavor. After fried chicken or oyster omelets, duck into the adjacent covered mall for late-hour boutiques and gadget shops. Most close around 1 AM, but on weekends, many stretch later.
Shilin Night Market food and fun you can’t miss:
Hot-Star Large Fried Chicken (Flagship store): The origin of Taiwan’s oversized fried chicken cutlet, seasoned with pepper- and chili. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, it’s a must-try with long lines.Chung Chia Sheng Jian Bao: Six-time Bib Gourmand; buns with crispy bottoms and fluffy tops, always worth the wait.Hai You Medicinal Spare Ribs: Five-time Bib Gourmand; 40-year-old shop known for sweet, comforting herbal pork rib soup.Good Friend Cold Noodles: Five-time Bib Gourmand; chewy noodles with sesame, lemon, cucumber, and pickled greens.Traditional Taiwanese Games: Available to play, traditional games include marble shooting, balloon darts, ring toss, and Mahjong Bingo.East District (Dongqu)If you want to enjoy a diverse and authentic Taiwanese shopping experience, the Dongqu is an excellent choice. It features Eslite Spectrum, a variety of homegrown brands for shoes, bags, and apparel, along with bars and cocktail lounges that add to the district’s lively nightlife. With MRT connections linking the area, you can easily explore multiple shopping zones in one evening without needing a taxi.
Where to Shop & Drink — Highlights You Can’t Miss:
Eslite Spectrum: A Taiwanese bookstore chain that goes beyond books, with creative goods, cultural products, fashion, and dining under one roof.Taiwanese fashion brands: Explore local favorites such as D+AF, Grace Gift, plain-me, and Air Space, showcasing Taiwanese style and design.Cocktail bars: Unwind at stylish venues like Origin Bar Ture, D Town by A Train, and Bar Mood Taipei, each offering unique takes on Taipei’s cocktail culture.Seamless late-night transportation
Photo: AaronChenPS2 /Shutterstock
Taipei metro has 131 stations and six color-coded lines, and is one of the most efficient transit systems in Asia. Trains run from 6 AM to midnight, with key lines extended service until 1 AM on weekends and the eve of national holidays. Trains run at intervals of just 2–4 minutes.
When going beyond the reach of the MRT — to the Maokong Tea Garden, Beitou Thermal Valley Hot Springs, or Xiangshan Trails — the 24-hour YouBike system lets you rent and return bikes anytime using your EasyCard or the app. Taxis are also readily available, operating with metered fares, with many drivers using translation apps.
Reading rooms and mountain teahouses: Taipei’s quiet midnight corners
Photo: rminedaisy /Shutterstock
For those craving late-night calm, Taipei offers plenty to do when the sun goes down. An unhurried, intellectual vibe is a defining part of Taipei’s after-hours identity. Some of the city’s most compelling late-night activities are quiet, cerebral, and deeply local. This is particularly true if you enjoy a good book. It’s not all about reading, though. Bookbar 1920s, located in the Dadaocheng, is open until 10 PM, and houses a diverse collection of books from around the world. Inspired by the vintage glamour of the 1920s, the space blends elements of the Jazz Age and speakeasy culture. By day it pairs books with coffee, and by night with wine, creating an atmosphere where literary charm and nightlife intersect, drawing book lovers to linger.
In Maokong, traditional teahouses built along forested slopes overlook the city lights below. Many stay open until 1–2 AM on weekends, especially in cooler months when crowds come for hot oolong and mountain mist. Tea is served Gongfu-style — small cups, multiple infusions — and guests are encouraged to linger.
Underground concerts and rooftop karaoke
Photo courtesy Taipei
If you’re instead looking for energy, Taipei’s nightlife is as diverse as its neighborhoods.
In Xinyi（the shopping district around Taipei 101）, the city’s financial and nightlife hub, DJs play for a mix of professionals and visitors in clubs like Barcode and Omni until 4 AM on weekends (check for reservation systems and dress codes). Karaoke chains such as PartyWorld and Holiday KTV offer private rooms, some with skyline views, and full-service menus. Many operate 24 hours, with hourly rates that often include food and drink, and multilingual song libraries that cater to a wide range of tastes.
In Zhongzheng District（home of Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and Yongkang Street）, there are many live music bars. Revolver, near Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, is a bar and live music venue that frequently hosts local indie and international musicians and DJ acts.
Around Huashan 1914 Creative Park, warehouse spaces host art shows, electronic music events, and pop-up bars. These gatherings often spill outdoors, blurring the lines between gallery, party, and open-air hangout. Adding a stop here offers a taste of Taipei’s creative underground.
August 29, 2025
A Delta Flight Attendant Is Sharing the Wildest Passenger Stories on TikTok
Flight attendant Savannah didn’t set out to become a viral storyteller. But after one particularly absurd in-flight exchange, she pulled out her phone during a layover and began recounting the incident on TikTok. That post — a dry, deadpan retelling of a passenger asking to smoke in first class — quickly gained traction. What followed was an ongoing series, Life of a Flight Attendant, where Messer shares real moments from her time working the cabin for Delta Air Lines.
Savannah is far from the first flight attendant to take to TikTok to talk about her job. Other flight attendants have explained things like what they’re really thinking about you as you board the plane, which parts of the plane are actually the dirtiest, and the one seat that a particular flight attendant refuses to fly in. There are others who have shared their own wild passenger stories. Savannah’s storytelling and delivery has made her a favorite in this category of flight attendant TikTok tell-alls for good reason, though.
With more than a million likes across her videos, Savannah’s platform has evolved into a kind of observational journal of modern air travel. They’ve become popular enough that it’s not unheard of for Savannah to be recognized by passengers who follow her on TikTok.
Here is just a taste of some of her best customer interaction stories.
A hairy situation@savannah0191 Replying to @boo boo ♬ original sound – Savannah
When one passenger flipped their hair over their seat and covered the screen of the person behind her, there seemed to be some confusion on where one personal bubble ends and another starts. Specifically, whether the back of the seat is in the bubble of the person sitting in the seat, or the person who is watching the screen there. It seemed to have clicked after Savannah patiently tried to shift the perspective of the long-haired passenger to make them understand that their logic meant the screen they were using wasn’t their screen.
Other worldly travel@savannah0191
It’s no secret that flight attendants travel a lot. That didn’t stop on passenger to ask if Savannah had traveled somewhere out of this world. Not as a figure of speech, but literally out of this world. “No not the Earth, like outside of this world,” the passenger said. Confused and gently asking for a follow up explanation, the interaction ended with “Never mind it’s fine.”
Turn down the engines please@savannah0191guaranteed that mom heard our whole conversation
Engine noise is loud. That’s what noise cancelling headphones are for. But that wasn’t a solution for one passenger, who asked Savannah to please turn the engines off because they were making too much noise during the flight.
The crying baby conspiracy@savannah0191and this was just today
No one likes to hear a baby crying. That seems to be felt the strongest on a plane. But some passengers seem to not realize that babies are, in fact, allowed on commercial flights. One passenger came at Savannah threatening never to fly with Delta again after she heard a baby cry. “I had to inform one lady that we weren’t the only airline that allowed babies when there was a baby crying — mind you, for like 15 seconds.”
The gate seat illusion@savannah0191 Replying to @Terry ♬ original sound – Savannah
After looking at their ticket, a passenger insisted on sitting in “G18.” That gave Savannah pause (the rows did not go to “G,” just “ABC DEF”) and then she mustered up the willpower to explain that G18 is a gate, not a seat. Unpreturbed, the passenger insisted they will sit no where but G18.
“I’m gonna propose a solution,” Savannah responded. “You can go sit at G18 in the airport or you can hand me your boarding pass and I can show you your assigned seat and you can go to Atlanta. So, I’m gonna leave it up to you. It’s your call.”
Everything You Need to Stay Warm and Cozy for Fall Camping
Cooler weather is rapidly approaching, and staying warm and cozy is key to enjoying a fall camping trip. This fall camping gear guide contains Matador’s Outdoor editors’ recommendations for the products they trust for use in the field, whether on single-night car camping expeditions or longer jaunts into the wilderness.
We hope you love the fall camping gear we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you make a purchase. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
FEIDEER Men’s Women’s Hiking Walking Socks
Photo courtesy of Feideer
Foot comfort is essential, whether you’re on a backpacking trip and will be moving camp each night, or just heading from the campsite to a day hike. The Feideer wool socks fit men and women and keep your feet warm and dry without smothering them or negatively impacting blood circulation. The socks are designed to keep you blister-free and are moisture wicking and ventilated. Should snowshoeing be on the docket this winter, call upon these same socks. With five pairs in a pack, you won’t find a better price on hiking shorts.
Price: $21.99 for five pairs
RUMPL Original Puffy Recycled Blanket
Photo: REI
Like the original but better — because this RUMPL puffy blanket is made from recycled plastic. You’ll keep yourself warm and cozy at camp while putting your money towards a sustainable cause. This blanket packs up tight and in a true demonstration of its versatility, can also be used as a picnic blanket or pillow on the go.
Price: $99
YETI Rambler Vacuum Bottle with MagSlider Lid
Photo: YETI
Nothing pairs better with fall camping gear than a warm drink. It doesn’t even have to be pumpkin spice. Whatever your fall beverage of choice, the YETI Rambler Vacuum Bottle is the ideal vessel to keep it hot and tasty for hours on end. The stainless steel design makes it easy to clean, so if you happen to spike that evening hot chocolate, the bottle won’t smell like Schnapps for all eternity.
Price: $35
JetBoil Flash Cooking System
Photo: REI
Hot food and hot coffee are essential when fall camping. Do it right with the JetBoil Flash Cooking System, which heats water and gourmet meals in just a few minutes. This burner is great for solo and even group camping due to its rapid warming speed — so you won’t have to keep people waiting for an hour just to get their morning Joe fix.
Price: From $135
BioLite Campstove 2 Wood Burning Electricity Generating & USB Charging Camp Stove
Photo courtesy of BioLite
BioLite created the perfect camping cookstove — that also charges your electronic devices at the same time. The BioLite Campstove 2 burns wood rather than gas, so its far more sustainable and keeps you from having to lug a propane tank or gas canisters with you to the campsite. The stove lights easier than a campfire and uses the heat from the fire to generate electricity that you can harness with a USB cable. Plus, it cooks perfect grilled meals and is easy to clean and pack. The stove is also great at boiling water (in 4.5 minutes!) and comes with a jug.
Price: $224.96
Jackery solar-powered generator
Photo: REI
Car camping is more fun when you have music. Vanlife is more fun when you have power, no matter how far off-grid you are. Jackery solves that problem with the most reliable solar-powered generator on the market. Jackery Portable Power Stations can be charged to 80 percent in about 2.5 hours. Available in wattages ranging from 160 to 2,000, enough to power a heater for your vehicle or even the entire campsite while simultaneously charging your phone. Add two of Jackery’s portable solar panels to your order and you’re set to ride far on the power of the sun. Matador’s gear editor powered a camping trailer for a week straight on one with no problems while traveling through the Utah desert.
Price: From $999
Osprey Ariel and Aether 60 backpacking packs
Photo: REI
Osprey went back to the drawing board to craft the 2021 release of the Ariel and Aether backpacks. Both with 60 liters of carrying capacity (larger sizes are available as well), these packs feature a top-notch hip belt and shoulder strap that is as comfortable as each is functional. The great thing about this pack is that it can carry all of your fall camping gear even if only on a one-night car camp, and then be the perfect companion for a hike (or an impromptu second night in the woods). The packs’ injection-molded, die-cut foam back-panel is built to mold to your back, not push against it.
Price: From $300
VOORMI Pullover
Photo: Voormi
Honing in on that fine line of warmth and comfort is the key to a successful fall camping trip. You don’t want to be too hot, because you’re outdoors and likely to be active. So you need something that is able to fend off the advance of a brisk evening without inhibiting your ability to move your body in a variety of directions. Enter the wide-ranging collection of flexible pullovers from Voormi, available in men’s and women’s options. Its thermal wool keeps you warm while the water repellant finish keeps you dry. This thing is built to stretch and contort. This mid-layer option even has thumbholes and a chest pocket with an earphone slot. You’ll be so at ease that your crew will whisper behind your back about how well-prepared you were for the camping trip.
Price: From $139
Roam Adventure Co. rooftop awning
Photo: Roam Adventure Co.
Again with the whole weather unpredictability thing, this rooftop awning from Roam Adventure Co. keeps you dry at the campsite. The brand also offers a tented version, in case the bugs are still hanging around or the monsoon waters really start coming down. The awnings pack down and away into your vehicle without taking up much space, so if you have a truck or other vehicle that you always take camping you can just leave it in the back and pull it out when needed. On that note, these awnings also make a great group gift for the person in your crew who does most of the driving. A tricked-out ride makes for a happy glide.
Price: From $369
NRS H2Core Silkweight Hoodie
Photo: NRS
Fall camping is here, yes, but the sun still shines bright — especially at altitude. Protect your skin with the NRS H2Core Silkweight Hoodie. This long-sleeve sun shirt, available in men’s and women’s options, offers UPF 50+ advanced sun protection along with wicking ability to keep you dry and well-ventilated on a hike or sitting around camp. Unlike many pieces of sun protection clothing, this shirt also looks super cool, so you won’t lose any style points either.
Price: $56
Cotopaxi Fuego down hooded jacket — men’s and women’s
Photo courtesy of Cotopaxi
Nothing is more fashionable in the high country than a down jacket — it’s even cooler than wearing Abercrombie in the suburbs during the late ’90s. Cotopaxi makes the best down jackets on the market, the Fuego, with 800-fill responsibly sourced goose down that fights mountain chill and cold nights to keep you toasty no matter what you’re up to around the campfire. Men’s and women’s options are available with several styles to choose from. The scuba hood helps keep your head and ears warm, and doesn’t bunch up behind your neck when not in use, so you’ll look good either way.
Price: $250-$275
Buy Now – Women’s
Buy Now – Men’s
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