Matador Network's Blog, page 75

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on December 30, 2024 12:11

Safari Testing the WANDRD Rogue Sling, a Bag That Helps You Get the Perfect Shot

When it comes to preparing for adventure travel, choosing the right bag is essential. And that’s especially true if that bag is going to house thousands of dollars worth of delicate, finicky camera equipment. Fortunately, an opportunity to test the WANDRD Rogue Sling came at the same time as a 10-day trip to Kenya, so I had the chance to put it through the wringer. After muddy drives in open-sided safari vehicles, bumpy bush flights, and visits to remote villages and eco-hotels, it’s clear the Wandrd Rogue Sling Bag is an extremely functional, thoughtfully designed option for real-world travel photographers.

We hope you love the gear we recommend. Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase. However, we never let that impact our opinions; our edited really uses and really loved this bag. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Durability is paramount when gear is subjected to the dust, heat, and unpredictable weather of Kenya in the rainy season, but the Rogue 9L Sling proved its mettle. Dust and dirt wiped off the surface easily, and the weatherproof zippers and materials kept my gear sealed away from the elements, even in afternoon downpours. It also resisted wear well, and despite constant contact with vehicle floors and rough ground, it barely has a scuff or scratch, and not a single fraying or loose thread.

Capacity and convenience: nailed it

When fully packed, the main compartment can hold quite a bit of gear. Inside is a camera body, 150-500mm lens, portable Wi-Fi device, packable backpack sunglasses, snack bar, voltage converter, and more. Photo: Suzie Dundas

The Wandrd Rogue Sling comes in three sizes: 3L, 6L, and 9L. Three liters is small for photographers unless you’re shooting with a tiny mirrorless camera and a petite lens, like a fixed 50mm. The six liter is probably big enough for most general or landscape photographers, allowing for a camera body and two mid-sized lenses, plus components like charging cables, memory cards, etc. My camera body is small (a Sony A7IV), but I have a downright gargantuan lens that goes up to 500mm, plus other lenses for everyday use. So I went with the 9L Wandrd Rogue Sling bag.

The bag comes with removable dividers, allowing me to separate and snugly carry the lenses and body separately in transit, but rearrange them as needed each day based on what lens(es) I think I’ll need. Even with my camera and lens, there was enough extra space in the main compartment for items like a charging cube, cords, a few snacks, a headband and comb, and even a pair of socks.

Buy Now: from $109 rogue sling on airport chair

The Rogue Sling can carry quite a bit, especially if you clip items to the outside. Photo: Suzie Dundas

There’s a second large pocket close to the mesh back panel that can expand to carry a laptop (a very useful feature) and both an inner and outer pocket running the length of the bag. Those two smaller zippered compartments provided secure storage for SD cards, extra batteries, cleaning tools, and other essentials for any travel photographer. They’re also large enough to carry items like travel-sized bug spray and sunglasses, though the bag starts getting pretty lumpy if you try to carry anything bigger in the flat-ish pockets.

water bottle pocket in use wandrd rogue sling

The fold-out bottom pocket is useful for narrow items like water bottles or tripods. Photo: Suzie Dundas

However, maybe the most useful feature is an expandable pouch on the bottom of the sling bag, with a cinchable tie at each end. I used that to carry a water bottle, though you can also shove a jacket, tripod, or pair of small shoes in there. (It tucks away with Velcro tabs when not in use). And on top of that, the Rogue Sling also has two external tripod straps for front carrying (though they barely were long enough to go around my bulky tripod). I also used carabiners to clip items to the various grab handles, including a packed rain jacket, a bandana, a baseball cap, and other items I was fine carrying on the outside.

Buy Now: from $109
Easy access means you’ll miss fewer shots

I used the Rogue Sling on bush walks when I needed my camera gear, but not a full backpack. Photo: Visuals by Koech

The huge amount of stuff this bag can carry actually made it a suitable replacement for a backpack for short hikes, as well as a useful bag for keeping under the seat in front of me on flights, allowing me to put my bulkier backpack in the overhead compartment. Having a sling bag with room for both my camera gear and water was a game changer, eliminating the need for a backpack while still keeping my hands free while hiking. An effortless swing over my shoulder flips the bag to the front, providing quick access to my camera (and making changing lenses a breeze, even while walking.) In the past, I know I’ve missed good shots because I didn’t want to take off my backpack and pull out my camera, but the Wandrd Rogue Sling kicks that excuse to the curb.

The fact that it’s easy to swing to the front means you can grab your camera, switch lenses, or replace a memory card without missing a step. Photo: Suzie Dundas

The padded back panel and adjustable strap made it comfortable to wear for hours, even when fully loaded, and the cross-body design avoids the awkwardness of carrying a chunky bag in and out of tight vehicles and planes. It also ensures it doesn’t slide down your shoulder during heavy activity, and it felt secure whether I was carrying it across my back or tucked under my arm in front.

The only slight annoyance I felt in carrying the Wandrd Rogue 9L is that it’s a little large to try to use within another bag. I initially planned to carry my cameras in the Rogue Sling, then use that as an internal case within my larger travel backpack (the Wandrd PRVKE, $219+ on Amazon). But doing that filled nearly the entire backpack, as the Rogue Sling doesn’t compress very well. I would plan on using it mostly as a stand alone bag.

Buy Now: from $109
It’s a useful bag, even without a camera

The WANDRD Rogue 9L is a big sling bag, shown here on a 6-foot, 1-inch guy. Photo: Suzie Dundas

I don’t carry my giant lens unless I know I’m shooting wildlife, but I do usually need some kind of bag (we all know how useless women’s pockets can be). Aside from having a rather technical/sporty look, the Rogue Sling worked well for that purpose. When I left my camera behind, I used it as a day bag, carrying my phone and charger, a notebook, sunglasses, an extra layer, big spray, and essentials along those lines, with lots of room to spare.

The 9L is a large bag, covering most of my back on my 5-foot, 7-inch frame. When wearing it over my shoulder, as I did most often, it extends as wide as my body, so it’s certainly very visible, and felt too big to wear as a hip pack/fanny pack. But it’s not really designed for that, and I’d default to something much smaller and more packable when I just need a small sling bag, like a Cotopaxi Del Dia hip pack. But I appreciated being able to use it as a day bag in a pinch, rather than having to carry a purse or second sling bag.

When moving through hotels and airports, the Rogue Sling was far more convenient than I thought. I wore my travel backpack on my back, and slung the sling over my neck, which kept both my hands free. I was able to smoothly move through airports, dirt paths, and up and down stairs while carrying both bags – in fact, I even carried a big duffel bag at times, too.

Buy Now: from $109
The Rogue Sling’s drawbacks

The laptop pocket (grey pouch, bottom right) drops down from behind the back panel. But it doesn’t have any padding, so tread carefully. Photo: Suzie Dundas

No bag is perfect, and the Wandrd Rogue 9L Sling has a few limitations. For multi-day trips or photographers with multiple bodies, it’s not going to carry enough. (The larger PRVKE backpack is better for that purpose). The Rogue Sling is better suited as a day or afternoon camera pack.

Additionally, the 9L Sling is bulky. I don’t mind, as it means extra protection for my camera. But it’s not something you would carry “just in case” you need it, especially as it doesn’t compress very well. So it’ll probably need to count as your carry-on personal item, unless you have a huge bag to pack it into.

Also note that the fold-out laptop carry compartment (above) works well and is very convenient, but it doesn’t fit a laptop in a case, nor does it have padding around the bottom. So be careful with swinging your bag around if you use it for that purpose on active adventures.

After two weeks of field use, I’m into it

The Rogue Sling was my constant companion for a 10-day safari trip. Photo: Suzie Dundas

After dragging it through three contents and pretty much every wet and dirty environment you can think of (including rain and snow at my home in Lake Tahoe) I’m very happy with the Wandrd Rogue Sling. It’s durable, carries enough to make it useful for day trips, and provides the quick and easy access to camera gear that photographers need to ensure they never miss a shot. While it may not replace larger camera backpacks for extended shoots, it’s a perfect companion for enthusiastic travel photographers, content creators carrying drones or video set ups, or even non-photographers who want a sling bag that can fit a full-sized laptop.

It’s a bit pricey as far as sling bags go, starting at $109, but for photographers, it’s nothing compared to the cost of cameras or camera repairs. I have a feeling I’ll be using it quite a bit in the coming years, and hopefully in the coming decade, since it has a pretty legit lifetime warranty. I also love that Wandrd has a pre-owned gear program called “Venture On,” ensuring that with a little extra effort, none of its products will ever end up in a landfill.

Buy Now: from $109More like this Technology + Gear The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide For Travelers, From Under $50 to Over $2,000

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on December 30, 2024 09:37

Where to Play, Eat, and Stay in Loreto on Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula

Loreto, Mexico, is magical. Don’t just take my word for it. The Mexican government designated the city in Baja California Sur as one of the country’s Pueblos Mágicos, or “magical towns” that provide “cultural richness, historical relevance, cuisine, art crafts, and great hospitality.”

Loreto’s magic comes in many forms: It’s the way the air feels when the sun sinks behind the Sierra de la Giganta mountains, and the day’s heat fades into the shadows. It’s Loreto’s history as the first successful town on the Baja California peninsula, starting with the founding of the first permanent mission on the El Camino Real. It’s the surprising number of great restaurants in the relatively remote locale and the protected nature areas nearby. It’s the clear and lively waters of the UNESCO-listed Loreto Bay National Marine Park and the greater Gulf of California, or Sea of Cortez, which Jacques Cousteau once called the “Aquarium of the World.”

My recent trip to Loreto was my third overall visit and my first in over 20 years. I visited in early winter when the weather is just about perfect, but the best time to visit Loreto really depends on your primary reason for going. If you want to see whales, come in late winter or early spring. Summer is the time for lounging on the beach and soaking up the heat, as well as casting lines for big fish like marlin and dorado (mahi-mahi) although you can fish year-round. For festivals and outdoor activities, look to the cooler temperatures in fall and winter.

Whatever time of year you decide to visit, here’s everything you need to know about Loreto, Mexico, from what to see and eat to where to stay and how to get around.

Things to do in Loreto, Mexico

Visit historic missions things-to-do-in-loreto-mexico

Photo: Craig Benson

Misión de Nuestra Señora de Loreto Conchó, or Mission Loreto, is smack dab in the heart of downtown Loreto. Founded in 1697 by Jesuit missionary Juan María de Salvatierra, it was the first successful mission established on the El Camino Real, a missionary road that runs from the southern tip of the Baja peninsula to Sonoma County, California. The stone church was completed in 1744 and has an impressive five-story bell tower that still rings regularly. Inside is a baroque altarpiece with the original painting of Our Lady of Loreto.

A bright yellow museum that was, at one time, a convent is attached to the church. Called the Museo de las Misiones de Baja California, it contains several hundred items, including 300-year-old church documents and Indigenous artifacts predating that.

Mission Loreto: Juan María de Salvatierra 14, Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico

Photo: Craig Benson

About an hour’s drive from Loreto is Mission San Javier (full name Misión San Francisco Xavier de Viggé-Biaundó). Originally built in 1702, it moved to its current location in 1710 to be near a spring, and the impressively preserved mission has had very little reconstruction done since it was built. In fact, the white paint on the walls and the glass in the windows are all original.

On the back side of the mission is a small museum. Outside, local vintners offer wine tasting. A short walk behind the church takes you into the old orchards; it follows the mini-aqueducts that channel water from the town’s spring to a 300-year-old olive tree. You’ll need a car to get to Mission San Javier as there’s no public transportation, but it’s a beautiful drive through the desert, into the canyons, and up the mountain.

San Javier Mission: 23893 San Javier, BCS, Mexico

Get to know the Malecón de Loreto things-to-do-in-loreto-mexico

Photo: VG Foto/Shutterstock

The Malecón de Loreto is a walkway that runs for about a mile along the gulf. It’s bordered on the north and south by beaches, and it passes the city’s pier, marina, and giant, colorful Loreto sign. The malecón (boardwalk) is part of Loreto’s very culture — a place to get coffee right next to the pier, go shopping, enjoy a fine meal, or watch the sunrise over Isla Carmen. In my four days in Loreto, I went to the malecón twice to watch the sunrise.

Malecón de Loreto: Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico

Spend the day fishing things-to-do-in-loreto-mexico

Photo: Craig Benson

Loreto has been known internationally as a sportfishing destination ever since American pilot Edward Tabor first started flying down visitors in the 1950s. You can fish right off the pier, where I saw people catching 18-plus-inch roosterfish at sunrise. If you’re up for a bigger challenge, you can also join a charter and fish for marlin out in the Gulf of California. Loreto also hosts big fishing competitions to catch dorado and other species, including the popular .

Arturo’s Sport Fishing & Tours: Hidalgo St s/n, Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico

Venture out on horseback things-to-do-in-loreto-mexico

Photo: Craig Benson

During my recent visit, my group went to a small corral in a town called Ligüí that’s located a few miles south of Loreto and is set among the cacti and bushes. Mario Perez, our guide, asked each of us how much experience we had with horses and assigned horses accordingly. I got Suspiro (although I’m not certain that I heard the name correctly because the Spanish word suspiro means “sigh” in English).

We mounted and followed Mario through the scrub and sand as he pointed out and named plants like the torote (elephant tree) and palo blanco (“white stick” tree). Our horses were mostly content to follow each other single file. After a short ride, we popped up over a rise in the sand to see the bay’s beautiful blue water and Isla Danzante just offshore, and then rode down the beach. On the way back, Mario led us inland through the desert, through the town of Ligüí, and back to the corral.

Loretours Perez: 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico

Hike for the views things-to-do-in-loreto-mexico

Photo: Craig Benson

There are many lovely hikes close to Loreto. But before you set out, remember to be careful hiking in the heat, the desert, and the mountains. Make sure you’re prepared to hike safely, starting with knowing where you’re going and bringing sufficient food and water — or make it easy and go with a guide, such as one from Vive Loreto Tours.

Rafa, my group’s guide one afternoon, led us on a roughly two-mile hike to the top of Cruz Hill. The hike was short but steep, and from the top, we had amazing views of the water and islands to the east and Marina Puerto Escondido to the north.

Vive Loreto Tours: Plaza Santuario #170 Loreto Bay, Nopolo, Loreto, BCS, Mexico

Go whale watching things-to-do-in-loreto-mexico

Photo: Andrea Izzotti/Shutterstock

There are several species of whales that frequent the waters off of Loreto, but the largest and most majestic of these is the blue whale. According to Ivette Marines, Operations Director at Loreto BCS Tourism, blue-whale-watching season runs from the middle of January to the middle of March, but the most consistent time to see the blue whales is the month of February. The whales come to the calm, food-rich waters of the gulf to have their babies. In addition to guided hikes and other land and sea adventures, Vive Loreto Tours also hosts whale-watching tours.

Vive Loreto Tours: Plaza Santuario #170 Loreto Bay, Nopoló, Loreto, BCS, Mexico

Get a spa treatment

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Spa Las Flores & Boutique (@spalasflores.loreto)

Loreto has no shortage of places to get spa treatments. My friends and I chose to go to Spa las Flores, located right on the central plaza. It has everything from massages to pedicures to facials and a variety of combo packages. I chose the Violetas plan, and my therapist Laura gave me a relaxing massage and anti-aging facial.

Spa las Flores: Davis & Salvatierra St, Local #163, Loreto Bay, Nopolo, Loreto, BCS, Mexico

Where to eat in Loreto, Mexico

Mi Loreto

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Mi Loreto (@mi_loreto)

Mi Loreto is a little cafe that’s decorated in bright, fun primary colors, making it feel like a fiesta could break out at any time. It’s just down the street from Mission Loreto and is the perfect spot to take a break from sightseeing in the Centro area. The menu features local standards. I was just off the plane when I visited, so I stayed on the lighter side, ordering a refreshing soup and salad — but for a real treat, try the enchiladas de mole.

Mi Loreto: Calle Salvatierra #50, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico

Los Olivos

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Hotel La Mision Loreto (@lamisionloreto)

Los Olivos is one of several restaurants in La Mision Hotel and sits right on the malecón with views of the water. The atmosphere is elegant, and the service is friendly and responsive. The menu is a mix of steakhouse and nouveau Baja cuisine that features some authentic Mexican dishes and plenty of fresh, locally sourced seafood — I had a Caesar salad and linguine alfredo, both lovely. Make sure to leave room for dessert when you go. My table shared a chocolate brownie and fried ice cream that I’d recommend.

Los Olivos: Calle Rosendo Robles s/n, Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico

La Palapa San Javier things-to-do-in-loreto-mexico

Photo: Craig Benson

La Palapa San Javier is a hop, skip, and a jump from Mission San Javier. The restaurant serves local cuisine in a rustic setting — think thatched roof with open wood beams, plus ornate wrought-iron chairs and tables. Owner Guillermo Bastida also owns a nearby ranch where much of the food — beef and citrus, for example — is sourced. The food was amazing. I had the machaca flautas (rolled tortillas with dried and shredded meat) and dulce de leche (carmelized milk) for dessert. I recommend anything with the machaca, which is beef from the owner’s ranch that’s been seasoned, dried, and shredded.

La Palapa San Javier: 23893 San Javier, BCS, Mexico

La Brisa

Photo: Craig Benson

Perched on the edge of Marina Puerto Escondido, complete with an outside patio where you’ll eat to the sounds of rocking and clanging boats, La Brisa is an American-Mexican fusion restaurant that specializes in wood-fired pizzas but also has the usual range of local dishes. It’ll also cook any fish that you bring in — as it says on the menu, “you hook, we cook.”

I went with the delicious and plentiful chicken fajitas and would also recommend the tortilla soup, which one of my companions described as the best she’s ever had. For dessert, the flan was a standout, and on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, you can hear live music.

La Brisa: Calle Bahia de las Palmas Manzana 15 Lote 1, 23894 Loreto, BCS, Mexico

El Zopilote Brewing Co. things-to-do-in-loreto-mexico

Photo: Craig Benson

El Zopilote offers inside-outside dining on the edge of Loreto’s central plaza, just two blocks from the malecón and one block from the mission. It has a selection of local craft beers, wood-fired pizzas, pub food, and fresh fish. The atmosphere is casual and surf-y with beer on tap, a bamboo-fronted bar, and a cactus mural. The fish tacos were a group favorite, while I also enjoyed a crispy chicken sandwich that I would happily order again.

El Zopilote Brewing Co.: Calle Davis #13, Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico

Raíz

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Hotel Posada de Las Flores Loreto (@hotelposadadelasfloresloreto)

Raíz, a restaurant at the Posada de las Flores hotel, is a special experience. There’s been a building on this site for several centuries that’s been remodeled, reconstructed, and updated several times — the current version is Mexican colonial with bright, desert-themed colors, dark wood beams, and front doors that are hundreds of years old. But the pool above the dining room — yes, you can see through the bottom of the pool’s thick glass — is recent.

The menu changes daily and is a mix of local dishes and fine dining. You can choose from a regular menu or a four-course prix fixe menu, which was my group’s choice. Our meal included shrimp bruschetta, creamy bell pepper soup, farm-fresh salad made with greens picked that very morning, chili stuffed with seafood and mushrooms, and chocolate pudding for dessert.

Posada de las Flores: Avenida Salvatierra y Fco y Madero s/n, Fco. I. Madero, Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico

Where to stay in Loreto, Mexico

Hotel Rosarito things-to-do-in-loreto-mexico

Photo: Craig Benson

Hotel Rosarito is a boutique hotel with two levels of rooms wrapped around a modest central pool and lounge area. The rooms are small but nicely designed, with a proportionately large and comfortable bed and a large tiled shower. The decor is a nod to traditional Mexican architecture with stuccoed built-in shelving, a closet, and a bench. Breakfast is included and served in the pool area. The central location is another perk — the hotel is two blocks from the beach, one block from Mission Loreto, and walking distance to many restaurants, services, and attractions.

Hotel Rosarito: Francisco I. Madero S/N between Juárez and Atanacio Carrillo, Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico

Posada de Las Flores

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Hotel Posada de Las Flores Loreto (@hotelposadadelasfloresloreto)

Posada de Las Flores dominates Loreto’s main square with its two-story pastel pink walls. The building, in some form, has been around for hundreds of years, and the current bar area was at one time Loreto’s main general store and center of city life. The hotel went through a major rebuild and redesign 27 years ago to modernize it. It now has a fine-dining restaurant, a rooftop pool, and a spa just a few steps away. The decor in the restaurant includes open beams, pastel desert colors, and some original 200-year-old furniture.

Posada de las Flores: Avenida Salvatierra y Fco y Madero S/N, Fco. I. Madero, Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico

Villas del Santo Nino things-to-do-in-loreto-mexico

Photo: Craig Benson

If you need a place for a longer-term stay or a larger group, Villas del Santo Nino has lower rates for multi-week stays and complete kitchens in each room. The compound has two-story blocks of rooms that surround an eccentric courtyard complete with an honor bar, pool, gardens, seating areas, a barbecue, and kitschy artwork — all of which is well situated a block from the city’s central plaza.

Villas del Santo Nino: Andador Salvatierra 4, Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico

Getting to and around Loreto, Mexico

Photo: Matan Hirsch/Shutterstock

The quickest and most convenient way to get to Loreto is to fly. Loreto has an international airport less than 10 minutes from downtown, and there are direct flights from many North American cities including Dallas, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and, seasonally, San Francisco, as well as a flight from Calgary, Canada. I flew from San Francisco (SFO) to Los Angeles (LAX) and then onto the Loreto International Airport (LTO).

Driving is another option. On one of my previous trips to Loreto, I drove from the US. It’s a long drive and a bigger time commitment than flying, but it’s well worth seeing more of the peninsula. For a shorter drive, you can also fly into the Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) roughly 300 miles south of Loreto, rent a car there, and drive some 6.5 hours to Loreto as part of a bigger BCS road trip. Loreto is also a popular destination for RVers.

Once you’re in Loreto, everything in town is within walking distance, from the many restaurants to the mission to the malecón. However, some activities and sights outside of town do require a vehicle. Renting a car is one option; going with a guide is often better. Not only are guided trips convenient, affordable, and informative, but it’s also great to have a knowledgeable local handle logistics.

More like this Adventure Travel Go Here, Not There: Baja California Sur's Mountains Deserve as Much Time as Its Beaches

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on December 30, 2024 09:00

December 27, 2024

This Budget Airline Just Made It Easier (and Cheaper) to Fly Across the Atlantic

Flying across the Atlantic Ocean is not an easy task for airlines. The jet fuel required for long-haul flights is not cheap – fueling a trans-Atlantic flight costs at least $27,000, and can cost over $100,000. Long-hauls require more staff than short-hauls, necessitate serving multiple meals, and must be flown on larger planes. All of these costs add up to a sum that budget airlines are often not able to swallow. As such, few of them boast overseas routes that last. One exception is Norse Atlantic, a Norwegian-based budget airline that specializes in doing just that. Finding good deals on the airline’s flights will be easier than ever in 2025, thanks to Norse finally listing its flights on SkyScanner and other third-party online travel agencies.

Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page.

Norse Atlantic lists flights on SkyScanner and other OTAs to make European travel easier phone screen with travel apps

Photo: Koshiro K/Shutterstock

Prior to the airline’s decision to add its flights to SkyScanner, flyers could still find trans-Atlantic deals from the airline – but they had to visit the Norse website in order to do so. That all changed in December when Norse added its flights into the back-end booking system Sabre, which provides data to OTAs so that they can list flights for customers to purchase.

While Norse doesn’t fly to many US cities, it does hit New York JFK, Miami, Las Vegas and Orlando. From there, travelers must transfer to another airline if they need to connect to other domestic destinations. On the European side, travelers departing from the US can fly to Berlin, London Gatwick, Rome, Paris, and Oslo.

If you plan to travel to Europe in 2025, your best bet for finding the cheapest fares is to search SkyScanner for Norse Atlantic flights as part of your research. Using SkyScanner allows you to compare prices across different airlines and routes, and now that more budget trans-Atlantic flights are listed, it’s easier than ever to get the best fare.

More like this Travel Every Plane Commonly Used for Long-Haul Flights and What Each Is Known For

Bud, Norway
Ujué, Spain
Taormina, Sicily
Greifswald, Germany
Gstaad, Switzerland
Le Croisic, France
Madeira, Portugal
Rothenburg, Germany
Maiori, Italy

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on December 27, 2024 11:43

9 Small Towns in Europe Worth Visiting For the Food Alone in 2025

There are many reasons to visit Europe. For food lovers, the history, culture, and art all take a backseat to the varied cuisines that shift not just from country to country, but from town to town. The biggest cities — Paris, Rome, Barcelona, the list goes on — are well known for some of the finest restaurants in the world. Yet some of the most memorable dining can be found in Europe’s small towns where the focus is on hyper local ingredients worked into traditional dishes sometimes served only in that community.

These towns don’t often make the “must travel for the food” lists or typical influencer videos. Sometimes the town hardly has enough accommodations to house the tourists that type of recognition brings. Both only add to the charm if you’re willing to make the effort to get there. And when it comes to these nine small towns the Matador Network team has fallen for after food-filled trips, the effort is always worth it.

Contributors: Debbie Gonzalez Canada, Morgane Croissant, Suzie Dundas, Katie Gavin, Nickolaus Hines

Skip to:

Bud, Norway

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton

Photo: Fjord Norway/Einar Engdal

Photo: Katie Scott AitonWhy we love it: Locavore dining at its finestWhat to eat: Seafood and seasonal dishes

Along Norway’s northwest coast, you’ll find small fishing villages serving some of Scandinavia’s finest seafood. These hearty dishes use nearby produce and follow recipes passed down for generations. On a recent trip, I found myself in the tiny hamlet of Bud. Bud is 20 minutes from the Atlantic Road — one of Norway’s most impressive sights and one of the 18 Norwegian Scenic Routes. At first glance, Bud’s scattering of red- and yellow-hued tinder houses seems like any other pretty fishing port in the region. Yet the new restaurant Slipen makes Bud stand out even in a region with no shortage of great dining.

The welcoming wooden dining room and bar are owned and operated by the talented Rune Skeide, who turned what was once a nothing-to-write-about establishment into a destination restaurant. The building was once a place to offload and store fish — hence the name “Slipen,” referring to the slip boat use.

Skeide celebrates everything local, serving me venison shot on a hillside he can point to from the dining room window. With plans to go nose-to-tail with a butchery downstairs, I have no doubt the menu here will continue to impress in the future. There’s zero pretension, small portions, or unnecessary ingredients on plates here. Each element is seasonal and has a story to tell. Eating the entrée of wild halibut from Romsdalsfjord with glazed carrots, peas, and a mussel fumè felt like a warm hug. As did the kindly service that reminded me of dining at my grandmother’s home. I visited at the end of fall during torrential rain and have plans to revisit in summer, to sit outside and tuck into one of Skeide’s burgers. — Katie Gavin, lifestyle editor

Ujué, Spain

Panorama view of Spanish hilltop village Ujue.

Photo: trabantos/Shutterstock

Why we love it: Historic small town with a restaurant that will bring you tears of joyWhat to eat: Bacalao a la vizcaina, cuajada, and other traditional Basque dishes

I visited Ujué to see a 12th century fortified church (which is absolutely stunning), but I would go back for the food. Perhaps no surprise in Basque country. The northern autonomous region in Spain has its own culture, language, and, maybe most cherished by travelers, gastronomy. The capital of San Sebastián has one of the most Michelin star restaurants per capita in the world, while Bilbao is equally enticing for food lovers with great food at lower prices. Ujué has a small population that’s a tiny fraction of either of those towns: 171 inhabitants by the the 2017 census, and almost half of them over 60 years old. The food still impresses. After a full day of walking about, my mom and I sat at Mesón Las Torres for a meal and some rest. The panoramic view from the restaurant was breathtaking, so at first I thought it could be a tourist trap. The menu consisted of mostly traditional Basque dishes, some of which we had already tried in Pamplona and other places. I still remember her tears of joy when she tried bacalao a la vizcaina (a Basque version of salt cod stew) and it tasted just like the one her grandfather used to cook for her. Traditional desserts were a highlight too. If you are having a hard time choosing, go with the cuajada (curd) with caramelized nuts. — Debbie Gonzalez Canada, SEO Editor

Taormina, Sicily

Photo: Belmond Hotels /Otto Geleng and Tyson Sadlo

Photo: Belmond Hotels /Tyson Sadlo and Mattia Aquila

Photo: DaLiu/ShutterstockWhy we love it: Exceptional food from street carts to Michelin star restaurantsWhat to eat: Seafood and fresh produce

Sicily, the biggest island in the Mediterranean, is the birthplace of my favorite food: arancini. The island off the boot of Italy is also where I’ve made some of my most cherished food memories. It’s an island of contrasts. Volcanic soils sustain fertile farmlands that produce some of the finest fruit and vegetables in the world, while the coastline provides a bounty of seafood. You can eat cones of arancini from greasy paper on a crate on a side street in Palermo, dine on terraces overlooking vineyards, and savor eggplant parmigiana from Michelin star kitchens. And each experience is exquisite in its own way. Sicily’s culture is just as mix-matched, and that influences the dining scene.

I took my sister, a chef, to Sicily in 2022. She had a list as long as her arm of places to eat and shop. Although I’m more haphazard in my approach to choosing where to eat – some of my best dining experiences have been accidental finds — I followed her lead and ended up in the hilltop beach town of Taormina. Taormina sits on Sicily’s western coast, and it’s here where we ended our road trip and ate an unforgettable meal at Michelin starred Otto Geleng.

Otto Geleng sits 16, but thankfully, my sister had booked far in advance. It’s housed on a balcony with terracotta pots of fuchsia that lace the view of Mount Etna on the dusty pink-walled Grand Hotel Timeo. The air smelt of orange zest and sea salt, and with a glass of spumante, we began our tasting menu journey through southern Sicily. The choose-your-own-adventure menu, steered by Roberto Toro, takes you to the sea, through valleys, or the vegetable garden. I opted for seven courses inspired by the ocean, a fitting accompaniment to the view over the Bay of Naxos. Dishes such as grilled octopus with wild fennel escarole and creamy fusillone with cuttlefish and broad beans brought silence to our table. Sharing this experience with my beloved sister is a memory I hold close to my heart. And if you’re fortunate enough to visit Sicily, take a leaf out of her book and reserve a table at Otto Geleng before you arrive on the island. — Katie Gavin, lifestyle editor

Greifswald, Germany

Photo: Sina Ettmer Photography/Shutterstock

Why we love it: A small harbor city on the Baltic Sea with beautiful and colorful North German Gothic architectureWhat to eat: Fish sandwiches, beer, and German cakes

Travelers tend to forget that Germany has a coastline both on the North Sea and on the Baltic Sea and that, consequently, fish-based dishes are a significant part of the country’s traditional cuisine. The small and charming city of Greifswald, home to the 800-year-old fishing village of Wiek on the Baltic sea, is worth a stop for a traditional fish sandwich. The tastiest and most affordable place to do just that is Fisch 13, a small take-away shop with a large variety of sandwiches. Order one with plum or raspberry jam for an unexpected fish feast. If you’d rather have a proper sit-down meal in a more refined atmosphere, visit Natürlich Büttners or Restaurant Tischlerei. For something sweet and traditional, make your way to Bäckerei Kässler for a slice of mohnkuchen (German poppy seed cake). Everything at this bakery is made in-house from time-honored recipes. Because one can’t visit Germany without trying out some local beer, stop by Störtebeker Braugasthaus. Located in a beautiful North German Gothic building on Greifswald’s marketplace, this restaurant serves a large variety of specialty beer, as well as some beer-based cocktails, alongside traditional German dishes like beef-based rinderroulade and the herring-based brathering süß. — Morgane Croissant, deputy editor

Gstaad, Switzerland

An outdoor fondue pot on a summer afternoon. Photo: Suzie Dundas

Visiting a cheesemaker in the hillsides around Gstaad, Switzerland. Photo: Suzie Dundas

Siting in a lifesized fondue pot in the Swiss Alps. Photo: Suzie Dundas

The town of Gstaad, Switzerland. Photo: Suzie Dundas

The too-cute-to-be-real streets of the historic part of Gstaad. Photo: Suzie DundasWhy we love it:The Swiss alpine views of dreams, and a multitude of adventures for the cheese obsessedWhat to eat: Hobelkäse, Bergkäse, fondue, raclette, and all other cheeses

Gstaad, in the Swiss Alps, is known for its gorgeous snow-covered landscapes. But among food lovers, it’s also known for its culinary landscape — especially when it comes to dishes focused on cheese. I traveled there in fall of 2024, and though I went for the hiking and wouldn’t consider myself a huge foodie, the food experiences were really what stole the show.

In Gstaad, farmers move their cows to hillside farms every summer, where they produce the town’s signature offering: Hobelkäse. The hard cheese must be made in such a specific way that there’s an entire cheese co-op dedicated to making sure its recipe remains pure and high-quality.

The co-op runs one of the coolest things I’ve ever seen while traveling: an underground cheese grotto in an old water tower. It’s been transformed by the co-op into a cheese aging facility, where the aging process for each of the thousands of wheels in the coop is overseen by a cheesemonger extraordinaire. Guests can book tours into the grotto, complete with cheese and wine tastings.

But if you’d rather stay above ground — or want to see those famous mountain views — there’s another equally fun option offered in partnership with the tourism board and cheese co-op. Visitors can order “fondue backpacks” loaded with everything needed to make fondue al fresco (including a local fondue spice that’s mouthwateringly good), then hike to one of half a dozen life-size fondue pots scattered around Gstaad’s hillsides. The kits have everything needed, so you can enjoy the town’s signature dish while admiring some of the prettiest views in Switzerland. And if you’re completely obsessed with hobelkäse – which you very well might be after a taste – you can book experiences like hikes into the hillsides to visit a Swiss cheesemaker. You’ll need to stay overnight in a Gstaad hotel, and you’ll get a tourist card, which includes the ability to book experiences such as farm visits. It also includes other perks, like free transportation and cable car rides (useful if you’d prefer to hike down, not up).

Gstaad isn’t a huge town, but considering how accessible it is from both Zurich and other popular Swiss towns like those around Lake Geneva, it’s a no-brainer when it comes to including it in a Swiss trip (and truly a must-do for the cheese-obsessed). — Suzie Dundas, commissioning editor

Le Croisic, France

Photo: margouillat photo/Shutterstock

Why we love it: A classic small Brittany harbor town with narrow cobblestone streets lined with independent shops and restaurantsWhat to eat: Crêpes, galettes, and chocolates

For someone like me who grew up nearby, Le Croisic has always felt like the end of the world. It’s located on the very tip of a peninsula jutting into the Atlantic Ocean and is the last stop for all the trains in the area, including the TGV coming from Paris. But Le Croisic’s location doesn’t mean it’s flying under the travel radar — in May, July, and August, the town is crowded with French tourists walking along the quay, visiting the independent shops, and trying out all the Breton specialties they can get their hands on. If you visit outside of those months, you should be able to enjoy the town and its restaurants without having to flare out your elbow or make reservations. First on the list of must-try food venues while in Le Croisic is a traditional meal of either galettes (savory buckwheat crêpes) or sweet crêpes, either accompanied by a small cup of cider at Crêperie Le Bot. My personal favorite items on the menu are the Keir Breizh galette (filled with creamy cheese) and the chestnut paste crêpe. Spending time walking around Le Croisic would not be complete without two making stops: one at Maison La Goulue for delicious chocolates shaped like seashells, bird eggs, rocks, and mussels; and one at Maison Georges Larnicol for buttery kouign-amanns and salted caramel candies. Le Croisic being a fishing harbor, it’s also a good place to try out the celebrated local seafood either at the aptly named L’Océan (high-end) or at the more casual Le Lénigo on the quay in front of the seafood market. – Morgane Croissant, deputy editor

Madeira, Portugal

Left, wine tasting in the mountains at Quinta Do Barbusano, just outside Funchal. Right, churrasco is cooked (and often served) on a spit. Photos: Suzie Dundas

Funchal's food influences encompass tropical island cuisine, seafood, influences from African countries, and french and Italian influences, among others from Europe. Photo: Suzie Dundas

Madeira is an outdoorsy paradise, with sports ranging from world-class mountain biking and hiking to scuba diving, hiking, cliff jumping, deep water soloing, and much more. Photo: Suzie DundasWhy we love it: Like an affordable Hawaii if you gave the islands bigger mountains, more diverse landscapes, and a European influenceWhat to eat: Madeiran wine, seafood, garlic bread, and exotic fruit

Funchal, the capital of the Portuguese island of Madeira, offers a vibrant and diverse food scene that appeals to both adventurous and discerning foodies. It also has an incredible food scene, as the island’s fertile volcanic soil, subtropical climate, and year-round growing conditions provide an ideal environment for agriculture. It’s hard to imagine a crop that doesn’t thrive on Madeira, and local cuisine takes advantage of year-round harvest for everything from exotic fruits like passionfruit and custard apples to vegetables, sugarcane, and herbs to create some of the freshest dishes I’ve ever tasted.

If you’re into seafood, you’ll appreciate that the ocean is inextricably intertwined with Funchal’s culinary identity. Local favorites include espada (black scabbard), often served with bananas, and grilled limpets enjoyed with garlic and butter.

The city’s food markets, such as the Mercado dos Lavradores, offer a sensory experience selling affordable fresh produce, spices, and artisan products. And the town is covered in high-end restaurants offering multi-course fine dining experiences at decidedly non-Michelin prices – see Casa Velha Restaurant, Kampo, and Marisqueira Splendida. (Though the island has plenty of Michelin-designated restaurants, too). If those restaurant names sound international, it’s because they are. Madeira has long been an important trading post in the Atlantic, and its cuisine is influenced by countries ranging from Morocco to Japan, France, and the Americas.

But Madeira is not just about the food – it’s about the wine, too. Madeira, the island, is synonymous with Madeira, the port wine. In Funchal, you need to try Madeirian wine at Blandy’s, then head just outside the city to one of the island’s many hillside wineries. (I recommend taking a wine tour, rather than driving yourself.)

On top of all that, Madeira has some of the best mountain biking, cliffside hiking, and canyoneering in Europe, too. — Suzie Dundas, commissioning editor

Rothenburg, Germany

Photo: berni0004/Shutterstock

Photo: Yuri Turkov/Shutterstock

Photo: Solarisys/ShutterstockWhy we love it: Traditional Franken and Bavarian cuisine in a gorgeous, historic setting – and some of the cheapest and best beer in EuropeWhat to eat: Schneeballen (snowball) pastries, Franconian red beer, weisenbock, and festbier

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is simply called “Rothenburg” (pronounced “Rote-hen-burg”). It’s a picturesque medieval town in Bavaria with a food scene that celebrates tradition, quality, and authenticity at budget-friendly prices. Unlike larger cities like Munich, Rothenburg maintains a focus on traditional Bavarian cuisine without the intrusion of fast food chains. Here, family-run restaurants, cafes, and bakeries showcase traditional Bavarian and Franconian cuisine. That includes the famous schneeballen — a fried pastry dusted with sugar or dipped in chocolate — first created in the walled city.

Classic dishes like schweinshaxe (roasted pork knuckle), bratwurst, and hearty potato dumplings (which are often vegetarian) are staples on local menus, and at the family-run taverns the recipes have been handed down for generations.

Rothenburg’s beer culture here is equally enticing, with Bavarian brews flowing generously in beer gardens, historic pubs, and at basically every cafe or restaurant in town. Beer is generally cheaper than in Munich, and the city offers distinctive beers like Franconian red beer, also called Rotbier. It’s distinct to Franconia (a culture with which Rothenburg identifies more so than Bavaria) and has a malty taste – though this being Germany, you’ll find plenty of lighter ales, festbiers, and hefeweizens too, of course.

Maiori, Italy

Pasta with a view at Cuonc Cuonc. Photos: Nickolaus Hines

Photo: Lucamato/Shutterstock, left; Nickolaus Hines, right

Left, seafood pasta at Nettuno; right, truffle-topped pasta at Casa Mandina. Photos: Nickolaus HinesWhy we love it: The Amalfi Coast without the overbearing crowds and better food than the more touristy surrounding spotsWhat to eat: Lemons, seafood, and pasta

The Amalfi Coast is known for its colorful buildings that stack onto the cliffside facing the Tyrrhenian Sea (and the many stairs it takes to get just about anywhere). In recent years, it seems that the quintessential Italian coastal region is just as known for overtourism. That isn’t so much the case in Maiori, one of the most eastern small towns of the Amalfi Coast. Fewer tourists means easier seating at restaurants (and easier-to-swallow prices). On an early summer trip, my wife and I found the hardest seats to grab were at any one of the many small beachside snack shacks during aperitivo hour. Those were worth the hunt for chairs to sit devour small plates of fried fish drink in hand, though equally enticing were the proper sit down restaurants. Ristorante Torre Normana is the fanciest by a long shot and brings new meaning to the phrase “seafood tower.” Housed in a Medieval Norman watchtower, the restaurant serves massive multi-course feasts focused on everything that can be eaten from the sea. The prices are high but more than worth it — just book in advance as it quickly fills up and is known for the regular flow of local and international celebrities. For fine dining with an open kitchen, head into town to the tucked away Ristoranta Casa Mandina to eat truffle-topped pastas and traditional dishes taken up a notch.

The day-to-day meals are equally memorable. The courtyard at Ristorante Pinata 1903 is shaded by lemon trees that hang their fruits above dining tables covered in plates of pasta, seafood, and lemons filled with sorbet. Casa Ferraiuolo is a high-minded cocktail haven with equally delicious pastas. If wine tasting is what you’re after, Made in Eataly is a humble spot for meat and cheese plates alongside an impressive selection of local and national wines. Walk through the local crowd of cats to enter Ristorante Pizzeria Nettuno on the other side of the beach for, yes, pizza, but also fried seafood platters and pasta. That all said, you’d be hard pressed to walk the main road of Corso Reginna and not find an abundance of places to stop for seafood, pasta, and dessert.

The most memorable place we ate in the region, and one of the most memorable dining experiences I’ve had, requires a walk into the lemon fields along the Sentiero dei Limoni trail connecting Maiori and Minori. Lemon farmers open their doors for hikers and serve refreshing, freshly squeezed lemon juice from early summer until harvest. It’s a build up to Cuonc Cuonc near the middle of the trail. This family restaurant is akin to eating in a friendly aunty’s house (if that aunty had breathtaking elevated views of one of the world’s most famous coastlines). The menu follows what is available that day, but you can count on lemons being a major part of any meal. We started with insalata di lemoni: cut up lemons (peel and all) soaked until soft in balsamic vinegar, olive oil, mint, and salt. I expected the appetizer to be bracingly tart, but the sweet local lemons make it incredibly balanced (and a favorite of my lemon-loving daughter who was six months old at the time). Handmade pastas, tomato tarts, and pork wrapped in grape leaves go perfectly with a carafe of unnamed local table wine. Buy some lemon-carrot jams and honey made on the property on your way out to take some of those flavors home. The father-daughter duo who run the restaurant are never too far, it is their home as well after all, and neither is the friendly cat who knows all of the table manners as long as you’re fine with it sitting on your lap during your meal. — Nickolaus Hines, managing editor

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on December 27, 2024 10:10

9 dreamiest Airbnbs in France

With a bit of thoughtful planning, you can take in the sights, smells, and flavors of the South of France with a fancy spot to come home to each night, thanks to these epic and affordable Airbnbs. Each listing here is within walking distance to popular attractions and is less than a luxury stay at a hotel, leaving you time to explore and some cash to spend on food (the real reason you’re there). Here are the 13 dreamiest Airbnb South of France rentals for a fantastic stay in the region.

Taking a trip to France? Check out Matador’s accommodation guides to the best places to stay:The most beautiful Airbnbs in Paris These Airbnbs Near the Eiffel Tower Offer Incredible Views of the Entire City This Paris Airbnb Has the Most Perfect View of the Eiffel Tower The 9 Most Exciting Boutique Hotels in Paris

We hope you love the Airbnb South of France properties we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Villa La Pescade outside of Nice

Photo: Airbnb

The French do coastal luxury like no one else, and this high-end villa is proof. With an arched terrace overlooking the water and enough comfort for royalty, this unit is also within walking distance of dining, shops, and the sea. There are six beds across four bedrooms and space for eight guests. For the ultimate all-in-one Airbnb in the South of France, it doesn’t get any better.

Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $1,081 per night

Book Now 12th-century Mas near Montpellier

Photo: Airbnb

Admit it — you’ve always wanted to stay in a castle. This is the perfect opportunity, in the hills outside Montpellier. A “mas” is a French farmhouse, and this one comes complete with a pool, luxe amenities including an expansive yard, a chef’s kitchen, and enough historic charm that you’ll feel as though you’ve snuck away into a Disney movie. Without all the screaming kids, of course, though with five bedrooms and space for 12 guests, there’s plenty of room to bring yours.

Twelve guests, five bedrooms
Price: $497 per night

Book Now Huge villa with panoramic views of Villefranche-Sur-Mer

Photo: Airbnb

This huge, five-bedroom villa looks out over Villefranche-Sur-Mer and Cap Ferrat. Although it’s outside of the city, the small historical seaside village of Villefranche-Sur-Mer is surrounded by stunning Provençal greenery and a short seven-minute train ride from Nice. The villa also has parking space for several cars, so if you’re driving it’s an even better rental option for exploring the region.

The outdoor space is jaw-dropping, and the recently renovated saltwater swimming pool and deck (with loungers and outdoor chairs and tables) are situated in a private garden of palms and manicured lawns. A superb option for a large group of adults or a family, there are three beautifully decorated bedrooms in the main part of the house and a separate studio with a bedroom and bathroom. There’s air conditioning for summer months, but its location close to the ocean allows for a calming sea breeze to drift through the property.

Nine guests, five bedrooms
Price: $549 per night

Book Now Two-bedroom villa set off The Corniche

Photo: Airbnb

The Corniche is a beautiful coastal walkway that offers stunning views of the city and the sea. You’ll find the Corniche busy with tourists and locals out for a stroll, running, and playing volleyball on the sand. This villa has been recently renovated (in 2015) and offers guests an incredible view over the coast from its sprawling terrace and garden. It is set in the Roucas Blanc residential area, so this is a perfect option for families, looking for space in a quiet and safe part of the city.

Outside there’s a small vegetable patch, an outdoor shower room (perfect for washing down snorkeling gear and wetsuits), and a lovely terrace with a table and chairs which is surrounded by greenery. Thanks to its large windows and positioning on the hillside, the interior is light and airy with white walls that keep the villa cool in the summer months.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $383 per night

Book Now Historic 12th-century apartment in medieval village

@wheretofindme the most magical Airbnb in the South of France #provence #southoffrance #airbnbfinds #airbnb #francetiktok #francetravel ♬ Married Life – Michael Giacchino

This property was the former home of French poet, writer, and screenwriter Jacques Prévert. It is located in Saint Paul de Vence, a beautiful medieval walled village, that is a two to three-hour journey from Marseille. This Airbnb has been voted one of the best rentals in the South of France, and you can see why. The dreamy apartment has glorious views of the sea to the south and the mountains to the north from the jasmine-covered terrace. Inside wooden beams support vaulted ceilings and an ancient tunnel takes you on a journey between rooms. This charming rental is one to bookmark if you’re looking for a quiet and unforgettable haven in the countryside.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $327 per night

Book Now Private guesthouse right on the water, St. Tropez

Photo: Airbnb

This private guesthouse which sleeps two and is literally steps from the water is quintessentially tropézienne. The color and rustic decor of the house, the yard, and the location could not lend to a more authentic experience. St. Tropez is small, but it’s a Mediterranean destination that packs a punch. So, after you’ve walked through the neighborhood and checked out the old port, stroll back to your place and relax by the water.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $181 per night

Book Now Sea view spa in Fabron, Nice

Photo: Airbnb

Life is good when you’re sitting in a hot tub on a private rooftop that’s overlooking the city of Nice. That’s what’s on offer here at this eight-person, renovated flat overlooking both Nice and the glittering Mediterranean Sea. You’ll be a comfortable distance from the bustle of the city center but close enough to the neighborhood’s businesses that you’ll be able to hit the boulangerie for croissants every morning. You’re also not far from the restaurants dotting the waterfront.

Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $145 per night

Book Now Charming nautical-theme loft near Vieux Port, Marseille

Photo: Airbnb

Perched between the red-tiled roofs, this charming two-bedroom loft is an Airbnb Plus rental that is perfect for a small family, couple, or solo traveler. On the top floor, there is an open-planned mezzanine bedroom and there is another beautifully decorated second bedroom on the ground floor. From the soft blue pastel color pallet, use of wood paneling, and driftwood artwork, the decor has a nautical theme throughout. Outside there is a cute terrace with a seating area, succulents, and views over the houses near Vieux Port.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $135 per night

Book Now Modern duplex loft on Masséna Plaza, Nice

Photo: Airbnb

You’ll be right on the gorgeous Masséna Plaza without sacrificing the proximity to the sea with this full loft in Nice. The nearby shoreline is the stuff of legend, so hit the beach (the Promenade des Anglais is only a 13-minute walk away, and the closest beach is even closer), check out Nice’s Old Town, and maybe even spend a night cooking a romantic dinner in the full kitchen — all for just $118 per night.

Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $118 per night

Book Now Waterfront house with a private beach and swimming pool, Cannes

Photo: Airbnb

Cannes is the ultimate French town when it comes to having a glamorous, sunny vacation by the beach. And, La Croisette, the mile-long plaza that runs alongside the shore, might just be the best place in the world to pop the question — even if that question is “Which seaside patio cafe beckons us for dinner?” The best part about this luxurious seaside spot is that you have a private beach, free from speedo-clad tourists, along with a pool, hot tub, and an entire house to relax in. Plus, you won’t be sitting on that private beach all by yourself — the place sleeps five so you can bring your crew with you.

Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $111 per night

Book Now Charming apartment, Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Photo: Airbnb

This quaint studio apartment located in the heart of Saint-Paul-de-Vence is just what you need if you’re looking for accommodation that screams French character. From there, you’ll be able to easily plan your own tour of the city centre’s historic buildings and check out the many galleries and art studios. You can also gaze out the window at the skyline as you lie in bed, winding down after a day of exploring the town. Despite being a studio, the flat sleeps four to help you split that $109 per night rate.

Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $109 per night

Book Now Studio with amazing sea view, Toulon

Photo: Airbnb

This one’s a studio but you won’t find a more romantic spot in all of Toulon — especially for $71 a night. The Mediterranean Sea is right across the street and you can walk to the restaurants, food markets, and cultural attractions that make up the city. After a day on the town or at the beach, make your way back to relax on the balcony overlooking the water.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $71 per night

Book Now Quiet and charming house in downtown Montpellier

Photo: Airbnb

The listings in Montpellier are compact and cheap but certainly don’t skimp on city views. This guesthouse sleeps four right in the heart of the city, close to the tram station (which will take you to the beach), the city’s markets, and museums (only a 10-minute walk away). The rental has a garden and pool on-site and is built and designed in a manner that encapsulates the city’s historic charm.

Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $54 per night

Book NowSea-view apartment on the Cote d’Azur

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
Indulge in Provence rosé and a spot of people-watching from the balcony of this five-star Airbnb in Nice. Located between Colline du Château and the Promenade des Anglais, most attractions are within walking distance. The decor has a touch of boutique hotel about it as well as a homely warmth only found in a vacation let. Ask the hosts anything; they’re generous with restaurant recommendations and tips.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $401 per night

Luxury pool villa in a quiet part of St. Tropez

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
This recently renovated villa in the South of France is a new listing from an Airbnb Superhost. Les Salins is a peaceful residential area just minutes by car from the glitzy harbor. The closest beach is a five-minute meander through lush Mediterranean shrubland. Perfect for families and friendship groups, the house has a heated pool with a bar plus multiple sun terraces.

Eight guests, five bedrooms
Price: $676 per night

Lakeside nature lodge with spa facilities

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
If there’s ever a French sequel to The Holiday, this place is where it should be filmed. This Guest Favorite Airbnb is built on the banks of a lake in the rural commune of Castelnau-de-Mandailles. Swimming is encouraged and the host also provides complimentary canoes. Continue the natural immersion in the wood-fired hot tub and sauna – these more than make up for the lack of televisions and Wi-Fi.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $458 per night

Epic glamping Airbnb in Nice

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
Add a twist to your South of France holiday at this unique vacation pad for budget-minded travelers in Nice. This canvas yurt with a private hot tub, plunge pool, and sauna will see you through sizzling summers and mild winters. If these amenities don’t set your heart aflutter, the views of the Alps and Mediterranean Sea will. Only reserving one night would be a faux pas.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $155 per night

Idyllic Provence farmhouse with a pool

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
Traveler math says do whatever it takes to pay for a week at this Airbnb Luxe in Saint Rémy. This stone cottage is the very definition of a Provençal residence with a country kitchen designed as much for mingling as for cooking and ornamental beds. The outdoor space steals the show, complete with a sunny pool flanked by cypress trees, a tennis court, and dining pergola.

Twelve guests, five bedrooms
Price: $2,528 per night

Countryside vacation gîte in the South of France

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
This charming Airbnb on the grounds of a French castle will bring out the romantic side in all travelers. It’s one of three self-catered cottages each with a kitchen and bathroom that may be rented individually or booked en masse. In the case of the former, the pool is shared. Reserving the trio means you get it all to yourself. Avignon is the closest city while Marseille, Nîmes, and Montpellier are around an hour by car.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $355 per night

Architect’s Airbnb in central Montpellier

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
This family-friendly vacation rental in the South of France has a secret garden with a pool where the kids can run amok as supper cooks (or you take a much-needed siesta). There’s also a foosball table and an office. The Antigone neighborhood can’t be faulted – it’s awash with parks, museums, restaurants, and Montpellier’s Olympic pool in case your private piscina doesn’t suffice. A car isn’t needed but there is parking if required.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $364 per night

Eco-friendly cabin with sea views

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
What this tiny house Airbnb lacks in floor space is made up for by the gigantic views. The studio chalet has wall-to-wall windows in the bed area where you’ll experience magical sunrises with a freshly frothed espresso. The kitchen is well-stocked and there’s a private terrace in the cliff top garden. The location on the edge of Èze is convenient for Nice, Monaco, and Menton although a car rental is unavoidable.

Two guests, one bedroom (studio)
Price: $187 per night

Millionaire’s mansion near Cannes

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
Get a taste of red-carpet living at this ultra-luxe Airbnb in the French Riviera with two swimming pools and views for days. Highlights include a sunken den in the main lounge and personal terraces affixed to all bedrooms. Two of these are housed in a separate annex for added privacy. The closest neighbours are a mile away and the host can arrange breakfast, a private chef, and housekeeping upon request.

Fourteen guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $1,348 per night

Bucolic bliss amid an organic French vineyard

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
Swap the sea for an ocean of vines at this winery Airbnb in the South of France. The estate is owned by the host’s cousin and tours are available – which might help you stock that sizable wine cellar. The house itself touts natural stone flooring, oak beams, and an open fireplace. If you’re looking to sample the pastoral lifestyle and learn about sustainable viticulture, these are your digs.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $146 per night

Pyramid OMG! Airbnb in the South of France

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos
One of the most unique (and romantic) rental properties, this pyramid cabin was conceived for nature-loving couples where the landscape and sleeping area are as one. Despite being inland, views sweep over the sea and the stargazing potential is top-notch. In place of kitchen facilities, the hosts can offer a charcuterie picnic for the evening and a breakfast service delivered to the patio.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $154 per night

More like this Epic Stays The 25 Dreamiest Airbnbs in Italy

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on December 27, 2024 06:11

TSA Stops Traveler Carrying 82 Fireworks, 3 Knives, and More in Hand Luggage

While you’re careful not to pack your carry-on with more than 3.4 ounce of toothpaste, following the rules imposed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to a T, others are totally oblivious to them. TSA’s Instagram account, filled with pictures of travelers attempting to sneak prohibited items through airport security, proves it.

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Travel Tips & Dad Joke Hits (@tsa)

But few travelers are as ignorant of the rules as the woman who thought the TSA officers at LAX would let her catch her flight to Philadelphia with 82 fireworks, three knives, two replica firearms, and a canister of pepper spray in her carry-on.

The traveler was caught red-handed when her bag went through the X-ray machine, was flagged, and consequently searched.

TSA stops traveler carrying 82 fireworks, 3 knives, and more in hand luggage

Photo: TSA

“What happened Sunday, December 15, 2024, at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) surprised even the longest tenured and most experienced TSA officer,” a press release explains.

US airports are equipped with CT scanners, a type of x-ray machine that is used by TSA officers to detect weapons or other dangerous items inside travelers’ luggage. CT scanners should not be confused with full-body millimeter wave scanners, which are used to reveal metal and non-metal objects on people’s bodies.

“The sheer number of prohibited items discovered in a single carry-on bag is extremely concerning,” said LAX TSA Federal Security Director Jason Pantages about the December 15 incident.

A quick look at TSA’s What Can I Bring webpage, shows that it is entirely forbidden to fly with fireworks, whether in your carry-on or checked luggage. Fireworks are considered explosives and can pose a very serious threat to the safety of everyone in airports and especially airplanes.

Knives, and any other sharp objects, such as box cutters or even knitting needles, are prohibited in carry-on bags, but are allowed in checked bags as long as they are securely packaged so that luggage handlers don’t injure themselves.

Firearm replicas, while seemingly harmless, can be mistaken for real weapons and are therefore not allowed in carry-on bags, but are allowed in checked luggage.

While pepper spray is never allowed in carry-on bags, the rules about carrying it in your checked luggage vary. Check TSA’s website, reach out to TSA on social media (@AskTSA on X or Facebook Messenger), or text directly 275-872 (“AskTSA”) to make sure you can pack your pepper spray.

While some TSA rules are obvious to seasoned air travelers, some are a little less evident. The regulations surrounding food items, vape pens, battery-powered objects, or even wrapped gifts, for examples, can trick even the most frequent flyers.

Attempting to go through airport security in possession of prohibited items can land you in hot water, including a fine and arrest. In the case of the December 15 incident, the traveler was interviewed by the police and the bomb squad was called to dispose of the fireworks.

If you’re traveling internationally, check the rules before you pack anything you have doubts about. Pepper spray, for example, is illegal in Canada, and many other countries. So is ammunition. Earlier this year, a man from Oklahoma who went on a vacation to Turks and Caicos was arrested, detained, and faced 12 years in prison after being caught by the airport security with ammunition in his luggage.

More like this Airports + Flying The TSA Released Its 2024 Travel Tips, and There's One You Should Really Start Following

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on December 27, 2024 05:59

December 26, 2024

The Best Adventure Travel Destinations for 2025: the Places That Didn’t Win Our Award

Every year, Matador Network awards destinations around the world in our annual travel awards, highlighting both our editor and travel professional’s picks, and a host of awards selected by our readers. The Reader’s Choice Awards ask Matador‘s 900,000-plus social media and email followers to vote on some of the biggest accolades of the year, including the “Next Big Destination” of 2025, the best airline, and the best wellness, sustainability, and adventure travel destinations.

For all of our awards, nominations are gathered from Matador’s team of editors, videographers, content managers, and travel pros. The list is then narrowed down based on a points system before being shared with readers. The votes are then tallied, and the winner gets the top slot. However, Matador staff are only a tiny fraction of people who travel, so we always leave space for readers to write in suggestions of the places they feel deserve national attention.

Chiang Mai, Thailand, scored several write-in votes from readers. Photo: Take photos/Shutterstock

And our readers did not disappoint. In 2024’s survey, readers wrote in nearly 100 alternate suggestions for the best adventure travel destinations of 2025. Some destinations received multiple write-in votes, like the tiny Caribbean island of Saba, Chang Mai in northern Thailand, and the entirety of Costa Rica.

While none of the write-in picks of the best adventure travel destinations garnered enough votes to win — that honor went to Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands — our editors did enjoy looking through the picks and learning what destinations our readers are most interested in.

Here are some of the picks of the best adventure travel destinations suggested by Matador Network readers that didn’t make the cut — but did inspire us to start planning next year’s travel.

Aeolian Islands, Italy

best adventure travel destinations of 2025 - italy islands

Lipari Island, Sicily. Photo: silky/Shutterstock

The Aeolian Islands, off the northeastern coast of Sicily, Italy, are an intriguing adventure travel destination for 2025. The volcanic, seven-island archipelago has plenty of unique hiking opportunities where visitors can see volcanic action firsthand, as well as no shortage of beaches, sailing trips, dive sites, snorkeling tours, and plenty more for travelers who like spending time outdoors. As you may expect from the landscape, there are also gorgeous black sand beaches and several thermal springs. Some of the more unique activities on the islands include public mud baths, opportunities to night-hike Mount Stromboli, and snorkeling over underwater fumaroles.

The Aeolian Islands Preservation Fund helps ensure tourism is both managed and benefits the natural environment, and the lack of air service helps keep crowds low. The islands see usually around 200,000 tourists per year, compared to the 15 million arrivals to Sicily in 2023. From Sicily, you’ll need to take a ferry from Milazzo, Messina, or Palermo; the trip is between one and four hours, depending on where you’re going. From the mainland, you can take a ferry from Naples. The quickest trip is about five hours, via the SNAV high-speed ferry.

Saba, Netherlands

best adventure travel destinations of 2025 - saba

A diver on a Saba reef. Photo: timsimages.uk/Shutterstock

The volcanic island Saba is just five square miles and has one of the scariest (but totally safe) airports in the world (though it’s also accessible by ferry from St. Maarten). It’s sometimes called “The Unspoiled Queen” as it’s still quite undeveloped, owing partially to the difficulties of building on such a steep and small island. The island is world-famous for exceptional year-round scuba diving, as well as high-elevation hiking through various landscapes around the Mount Scenery trail network.

While the island does have luxury resorts, they’re not your usual all-inclusives. There are no large chain hotels or resorts like those found in more commercial tourist destinations in the Caribbean. It also has plenty of cottage-style accommodations set on cliff sides and in gardens, giving the island a wilder, more natural feel that’s getting harder and harder to find as tourism economies grow in the region.

Pokhara, Nepal

best adventure travel destinations of 2025 - pokhara boats

Boats on Phewa Lake, Pokhara, Nepal. Photo: FS11/Shutterstock

Pokhara is definitely one of the best adventure travel destinations of 2025 — at least if you ask the country of Nepal, as it officially designated the city as the country’s tourism capital in March 2024. The city sits close to the Annapurna Range, making it a hub for hiking and climbing tours, as well as a popular place to stay before or after starting the famous Annapurna Circuit Trek. Paragliding is also popular, as is “ultralight flying” in small, open-air planes. Both allow visitors to experience the famous mountain range without the need for a multi-week hike. There are also opportunities for spelunking, mountain biking, and even visiting with monks or learning traditional skills from local Indigenous groups, for people not interested in trekking.

Pokhara is accessible via a quick flight to the brand new Pokhara International Airport, or on the daily tourist bus from from Kathmandu. There are several new hotels that just opened or are opening soon, including the luxury lakeside Glacier Hotel Pokhara, the family-run Blue Planet Lodge, and the mountain-view New Hotel Elia. Lodging is extremely affordable, and mid-range rooms can usually be found between $20 and $30 per night. The Nepalese government is currently investing in infrastructure to make travel easier and more accessible in the area, and the new Shanti Banbatika Botanical Garden, complete with meditation areas and an herbal garden, is also underway.

Nikko, Japan

Autumn views from the Akechidaira Observatory, Lake Chuzenji, Nikko, Japan. Photo: Taweep Tang/Shutterstock

Nikko is a natural and cultural draw that has managed to preserve its ancient character, despite being one of Japan’s most significant historical sites. The town serves as a gateway to Nikko National Park, where dramatic volcanic landscapes are a wilderness playground for guests who don’t mind exploring on foot. The area is famous for its historic Toshogu Shrine complex, but venture beyond that, and you’ll find a year’s worth of mountain hiking trails trails, thundering waterfalls, and steaming hot springs.

The region’s extensive trail network winds through old-growth forests and past ancient shrines, while Lake Chuzenji, formed 20,000 years ago by volcanic activity, is a stunning place for kayaking and lakeside walks. And in Nikko, it’s easy to combine adventure activities, whether you want to hike to hot springs or kayak between beaches for a point-to-point outdoor trip.

You won’t find large international hotel chains in Nikko. Instead, it’s mostly historic ryokans and boutique hotels tucked away in the mountains. Many are family run and have been for generations, offering a taste of old-school Japanese hospitality that can be increasingly difficult to find in more touristed areas. Though Nikko is just two hours by bullet train from Tokyo, making it doable as a day trip, it feels worlds apart — and far less crowded.

Tarapoto, Peru

Small boat in Blue Lagoon Tarapoto, Perú

A small boat in the Blue Lagoon, Tarapoto, Peru. Photo: SPHOTODR/Shutterstock

Tarapoto, Peru, is an interesting contender among nominees for the best adventure travel destinations of 2025, with a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and diverse activities. It’s in Peru’s northern jungles and is the unofficial gateway to the high Amazon region. It sits at the foot of the Cordillera Escalera, a natural conservation area teeming with dense tropical forests and impressive waterfalls. That makes it appealing for birdwatchers and anyone keen on staying in eco-lodges among the trees. Rappelling and canyoneering tours are also growing in popularity.

In addition to exploring the conservation area, visitors can go rafting and canoeing on the Mayo and Huallaga rivers, or hike to sites like Ahuashiyacu Falls or Palestine Cave. Tarapota is also big into cocoa cultivation and farming, creating lots of opportunities to tour farms and even learn traditional chocolate making skills.

More like this Travel Matador Network Readers' Choice Awards 2024: Next Big Destination

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on December 26, 2024 17:10

The Best Adventure Travel Destinations for 2025: the Places That Didn’t Win

Chiang Mai, Thailand, scored several write-in votes from readers. Photo: Take photos/Shutterstock

Here are some of the picks of the best adventure travel destinations suggested by Matador Network readers that didn’t make the cut — but did inspire us to start planning next year’s travel.

Aeolian Islands, Italy

Lipari Island, Sicily. Photo: silky/Shutterstock

Saba, Netherlands

A diver on a Saba reef. Photo: timsimages.uk/Shutterstock

Pokhara, Nepal

Boats on Phewa Lake, Pokhara, Nepal. Photo: FS11/Shutterstock

Nikko, Japan

Autumn views from the Akechidaira Observatory, Lake Chuzenji, Nikko, Japan. Photo: Taweep Tang/Shutterstock

Tarapoto, Peru

A small boat in the Blue Lagoon, Tarapoto, Peru. Photo: SPHOTODR/Shutterstock

More like this Travel Matador Network Readers' Choice Awards 2024: Next Big Destination

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on December 26, 2024 17:10

You’ll Be Paid $1,000 if You Miss Your Cruise Ship After These Shore Excursions

Cruise travelers wanting to make the most of the little time they are allotted on land don’t have to book shore excursions. You won’t miss out if you decide to explore a destination on your own, especially if you have a solid walking tour to follow. But if you do want to visit a destination via a guided tour, know that there’s more out there than the excursions proposed by your cruise line.

While there are multiple independent tour operators that offer a huge variety of visits (some as unique as VIP tours of the Vatican), very few are specifically tailored to cruise travelers’ schedule. Cruisers have two major constraints when on land: They can only spend a few hours on site, and they have a strict all-aboard time that they need to keep if they don’t want to miss the ship.

A solution for cruisers who don’t find excursions to their taste or budget via their cruise line, and can’t find an independent tour that fits their tight schedule, is to look at the offerings available via Shore Excursions Group.

Shore Excursions Group offers cruise travelers more than 4,000 tours in 300-plus destinations around the world, from Alaska to the Arabian Gulf, all with the promise of getting back to the ship on time for departure.

“Since 2008, we’ve delivered over 4.6 million excursions with a 99.99 percent reliability rate,” says Paul Kiritsky, CEO of Shore Excursions Group, in an email conversation. And if that wasn’t enough, the company also has a ‘Back to Ship’ guarantee that covers cruisers. “Our team will arrange and pay for accommodations, meals, and transportation to the next port of call and pay each impacted guest $1,000 — ensuring you travel worry-free,” he continues.

And it’s not the only promise that Shore Excursions Group makes to cruisers, it also guarantees the cheapest excursions out there.

“We guarantee that our prices are the lowest you can find. If you find a lower price for a tour we offer, we will match it,” the company’s website says. This guarantee applies to the prices your cruise line offers, of course.

Shore Excursions Group’s website is one that’s incredibly easy to use for cruisers. Enter the details of your upcoming sailing, including the cruise line, the name of the ship, and the dates of the cruise, and all the shore excursion options for all the ports you’ll be visiting during your trip will be displayed in a matter of seconds.

Photo: Morgane Croissant

In the spring, I’ll travel on board Holland America’s Zuiderdam around the Mediterranean. To know what’s available to me via Shore Excursions Group, I entered my details and was provided with all the possible tours, including pre-cruise ones, for all the port days. A quick scan of my options showed me that, among other excursions on offer, there’s a stress-free guided visit of the Colosseum — a tour that’s not even proposed by the cruise line — and it won’t be crowded: Shore Excursions Group only offers small-group tours, with no more than 12 people.

Photo: Morgane Croissant

To learn more about the Cruise Excursions Group’s offerings, the company’s best-selling tours, and what makes it unique among excursion providers, we talked with the company’s CEO, Paul Kiritsky.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Matador: Does Shore Excursions Group pick up cruisers at the ship just like a traditional shore excursion?

Kiritsky: Yes, our excursions are designed for convenience, with trusted tour operators meeting guests directly at the ship. While we provide the seamless experience expected from traditional excursions, our smaller groups and personalized itineraries add a touch of adventure and quality.

If a cruise ship has to cancel a day on shore at a specific port at the last minute, can the cruisers who booked an excursion with Shore Excursions Group get a refund?

Shore Excursions Group fully refunds canceled excursions, including those affected by last-minute port changes or ship delays. This ensures a smooth travel experience for our guests.

In what cruising region do people use Shore Excursions Group the most?

We use proprietary itinerary technology on our website in collaboration with local tour experts to ensure that our excursions are available for all cruisers, especially along the most popular sailings in regions like the Caribbean, Alaska, and Europe. So, our most popular offerings align with the most frequented cruise destinations, allowing cruisers to enjoy our higher-quality excursions wherever they sail around the world.

What are the top five excursions that cruisers book with Shore Excursions Group?

Our top five most-booked excursions include snorkeling in the Caribbean reefs, trekking glaciers in Alaska, exploring ancient ruins in Italy and Greece, savoring wines in Italy, and unique cultural tours in Japan.

What is the best-rated excursion currently offered by Shore Excursions Group?

Our Alaska whale-watching and glacier tours are guest favorites, consistently praised for breathtaking views and wildlife encounters. From Juneau’s port, you can escape the masses on a boat that holds a maximum of 40 guests with a guarantee of seeing whales AND take a float trip on spectacular, glacier-studded Mendenhall Lake, passing by the world-famous 2.5 mile-wide Mendenhall Glacier. Other highly rated options include historic tours across Europe in destinations like Rome and Mykonos, and the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins in Costa Maya.

Does Shore Excursions Group offer unique excursions that cruise lines cannot offer?

Absolutely. Our team has over 100 years of cruise and travel industry expertise, and they work diligently to curate a unique portfolio of higher-quality and more personalized excursions than the cruise lines. Some of our unique offerings include exclusive tours such as the Best of Rome, Pompeii and Amalfi Coast, Aix En Provence and Marseille, guided culinary tours in Japan, and private excursions offered in many ports, including river cruising destinations. In addition, we offer incredible multi-port packages featuring top-rated and one-of-a-kind excursions in each port, hand-selected by our team.

More like this Cruises Eight Passengers Stranded After Breaking the Number One Rule of Cruise Travel