Matador Network's Blog, page 79
December 12, 2024
The Coolest Airbnb in Mexico Is in the Quiet Beach Town of Sisal
You may never have heard of Sisal, Mexico, and that’s precisely why it should be your next destination. This hidden hamlet in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula has all the beauty of the country’s popular beach spots, but with the charm and tranquility of a small, undiscovered beach town. While you’re there, a stay at Casa Ingo provides the perfect mix of relaxation and luxury. This gorgeous two-story villa has a boho-chic design reminiscent of Tulum. Its chukum walls (a natural stucco made from the resin of the chukum tree) add a sleek, earthy aesthetic.
Taking a trip to Mexico? Check out Matador’s Mexico accommodations guides: The best Airbnbs in and around Mexico City’s historic center 8 La Condesa Airbnbs to settle into Mexico City’s coolest neighborhood 8 stunning Polanco Airbnbs in the city’s most international neighborhood Grab Your Crew and Book These Oaxaca and CDMX Airbnbs for Dia de Los Muertos These Top-Rated Tulum Airbnb Rentals Put You Right Near the Beach 11 Cancún Airbnbs for an Unforgettable Beach Vacation 11 Airbnbs In Cabo San Lucas for a Perfect Beach Escape 11 Airbnbs in Sayulita to experience Mexico’s most underrated beach town These Airbnbs in Tijuana showcase the best of Mexico’s underrated coastal city
We hope you love Casa Ingo! 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.
Why I fell in love with Casa Ingo
@epic.stays Exploring every corner of this stunning #Airbnb in #Mexico Casa Ingo Sisal @Pink Plankton #traveltiktok #mexicohotel #airbnbfinds ♬ original sound – Airbnb & Hotel Guide
The front of the house has a beautiful pool surrounded by sun loungers, a barbecue area, and the comfiest hammock you’ve ever laid in. Inside, the first floor has a well-equipped kitchen, dining room, and a cozy living area. Upstairs, you’ll find two beautifully decorated bedrooms, each with its own television and hammock for ultimate unwinding. The rooftop is the villa’s crowning jewel, with a dining area and breathtaking views of the ocean and sunset — the perfect spot for an evening gathering and stargazing.
Casa Ingo is just a five-minute walk to the beach and about 15 minutes to the heart of town. Sisal’s pristine beaches are perfect for relaxing, you won’t find many beach clubs blaring loud music around here. What you will find is endless white sand and loads of seashells. The town itself is a delight to explore, with its colorful buildings, vibrant murals, and delicious seafood restaurants.
Photo: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbNature enthusiasts are in for a treat, as the area is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including flamingos, crocodiles, and a variety of other species. A must-do is a guided boat or kayak tour through the lagoons and mangrove forests, where you can fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. Sisal has been designated as a Pueblo Mágico, a recognition by the Mexican government for small towns that have cultural, historical, or natural significance.
Sisal is located about a one-hour drive from Merida International Airport or a 4.5-hour drive from Cancun International Airport. If you’re looking to really escape the crowds on your next trip to Mexico, Sisal is the place to go, and Casa Ingo will make you feel right at home. 
Why Do I Always Get Sick After Flying? A Doctor Weighs in on What You Can Do to Stay Healthy.
There are plenty of things that make flying, especially long flights, unpleasant. The stress of getting to the airport on time, the subpar food, the lack of legroom, the sleep deprivation — all of it makes journeying by air a mostly miserable experience. But the lousiest part of flying has to be the post-flight sickness.
Getting sick after a long flight, whether with a sore throat, an upset stomach, or a general feeling of unhealthiness, is incredibly annoying, but also incredibly common. But why do so many people feel horrible after flying and how can they prevent it?
“Traveling can impose certain stresses on your body [that] can all conspire to make you feel less than stellar at your destination or on getting home,” says Dr. Lawrence Loh, a public health physician and adjunct professor at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at the University of Toronto.
The occasional travel sickness will hit just about everyone who travels by air at some point. Thankfully, there are a few ways to get around catching something on the plane if you understand what the underlying issues are.
Why do I always have a sore throat after flying?If you’ve ever walked into an airplane feeling completely fine, but have come out of it several hours later with the sensation that you’ve swallowed an entire sheet of coarse-grit sandpaper, you’re not alone. Having a scratchy, sore throat — or even losing your voice entirely — after a long flight is prevalent and can be explained by two things.
1. You’re all dried upThe air in an airplane is entirely renewed every few minutes. It consists of approximately 50 percent recycled air that’s gone through a HEPA filter, and 50 percent air that’s been pulled from outside and treated. While the process ensures the air is clean and safe to breath, it also means it’s very dry. The high-altitude air sucked in from outside and pumped into the aircraft at regular intervals is naturally dry. Think of how dry the air feels in the mountains and tack on tens of thousands of feet in more altitude.
According to the UK Civil Aviation Authority, relative humidity in an airplane cabin ranges between 10 to 20 percent, while it ranges between 40 to 50 percent in a building.
The lack of moisture in the air will dry out your mucous membranes in and around your lips, eyes, nostrils, mouth, and throat. Using lip balm, eye drops, and saline nasal spray can help prevent dryness. Drinking much more water than usual during a flight can help avert a sore throat from being too dried out. Chewing gum is also a good way to produce more saliva and keep your mouth and throat moisturized. Loh also recommends limiting alcohol and salty foods while traveling, both of which can exacerbate dehydration.
To remedy a dry, sore throat, Loh simply recommends lozenges and rehydration.
2. You caught a virusA sore throat caused by dryness and an infectious sore throat caused by a virus might feel the same at first, but they require different prevention methods and remedies.
“While recirculated cabin air contains filtration to reduce the risk of disease transmission, the proximity to so many other individuals, some of whom might be sick, increases the risk of a respiratory illness which may present with sore throat,” Loh explains.
To prevent a viral infection that might cause a sore throat, Loh suggests a number of measures the general public has become accustomed to since the height of the pandemic:
Wash your hands regularlyUse wipes to clean high-touch surfaces around your seat, including your tray table, your video screen, etc.Wear a mask during peak respiratory seasonsEnsure that your respiratory vaccines (flu, covid-19, and RSV) are up to dateHydrate with water regularlyA post-flight sore throat is easily resolved with time and adequate hydration, vitamin C, tea with honey, lozenges, and pastilles, Loh says. If you experience pain or fever, he recommends you take ibuprofen or paracetamol. However, if your sore throat lasts more than three to five days and is accompanied by either a fever greater than 101 Fahrenheit, swollen glands, or discharge in the back of the throat, seek the advice of a primary care doctor.
“If the sore throat is caused by something bacterial, such as streptococcus (strep) then you might need to go on a short course of antibiotics,” Loh says.
The most common types of illnesses people get after flyingA sore throat isn’t the only health issue that may arise from a flight. There are multiple ailments and illnesses, ranging from disagreeable to fatal, that can result from spending hours cramped in an airplane. Loh gives us a rundown of the most common ones:
Dehydration, exhaustion, and gastrointestinal upset: These are common results of not drinking enough water, time changes that lead to a lack of quality sleep, and dietary changes (eating fast food or airplane food instead of one’s normal diet). This can take the form of bloating, dry skin and lips, irregular bowel movements, indigestion, stomach pain, and fatigue.Infectious illness, such as respiratory or gastrointestinal illness: These sicknesses can be the result of inoculation due to proximity to other individuals or contact with fomites (stationary surfaces) of an infected individual. Respiratory illnesses such as flu or the common cold can typically present with a cough, runny nose, sore throat, difficulty breathing, and fever. Gastrointestinal illnesses can present with stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. Muscle strain: While not in the category of illnesses that people typically think of from flying, muscle strain is common and can result from overexertion, little movement, or sleeping in odd positions. It can present with shooting, intermittent muscular pain; reduced movement in joints or limbs; and fatigue lasting for weeks. It can also make existing muscular pain worse.Blood clots: Also known as thromboses, blood clots can arise from immobility and the pooling of blood, which allows it to start to clot up. Long flights are particularly a problem. This can result in sharp pain and loss of circulation in an individual’s limbs, or, if the clot circulates to the lungs as in a pulmonary embolism, it could lead to more serious issues like difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, and potential loss of life.How to prevent getting sick while flyingThere are multiple methods to avoid feeling rotten after a long flight. Many were well-known and thoroughly followed in 2020 and 2021 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, but they’re useful at all times, and worth remembering while you travel. Loh recommends the following to avoid getting sick while flying:
Prior to traveling, make sure your vaccines are up to date, especially respiratory vaccines and any vaccines needed for certain destinations, to protect yourself and others from virusesWash your hands regularlyBring hand sanitizer and wipes to keep your hands clean when you can’t wash them at a sink, and to keep the area around your seat sanitaryConsider wearing a mask to prevent respiratory illness, especially when population-wide infection levels are highTo stay hydrated, have a bottle of water handy and make good use of it, and don’t turn down any water from the crewAvoid drastic changes to your diet prior to and during the flight to avoid stomach upsetsMove your body and stretch your legs regularly, especially on long flights, to avoid muscle strain and, more importantly, thrombosis — don’t be too shy to make your way to the aisle from the window or middle seatAvoid excessive alcohol consumption, which is dehydratingCan feeling cold during a flight make you sick?If your seat neighbor’s air vents are on full blast, or if you’re not adequately dressed for the temperature inside the cabin, you’re a little more vulnerable to infections.
“Prolonged periods of excessive cold can suppress one’s immune response,” Loh explains.
The same goes for sleep deprivation, jet lag, and stress, which can leave you fatigued and lead to a general unwell feeling.
That said, this is not how you’re most likely to get sick while flying.
“The primary mechanism by which people get sick is through infections with a microbial pathogen such as a virus or bacteria, which typically occurs due to proximity with other people who might be sick, or inoculation from fomites,” Loh says.
Already sick? Here’s what to doIf you’re feeling under the weather but have a flight scheduled, you should absolutely reconsider traveling until you feel better. This might seem like common sense to many, but it turns out that some have no qualms about sharing their germs with the hundreds of people around them in a plane, as this Reddit post shows:
Currently sitting next to patient 0 and patient 0+1
byu/kittykorgi indelta
Dr. Loh explains that people who are sick should try to stay at home, but he also recognizes that some may be obligated to travel while sick. In this case, “they should do their best to prevent spreading their disease to others,” he says. “This would mean wearing a well-fitting mask and washing hands frequently for a respiratory illness like cold, flu, or covid-19, making sure to not share cups or utensils, and frequent hand washing if a gastrointestinal illness.”
Note that airlines, including all the major US airlines, can deny boarding or chuck passengers out of the plane if they are deemed too sick.
Aspen’s ‘Sustainability Guy’ Wrote a New Book, and It’s a Must-Read for Outdoorspeople
“Terrible Beauty,” the part-memoir, part industry critique, and part-call-to-action from Aspen One Senior Vice President of Sustainability Auden Schendler, hit shelves on November 26, and for travelers – skiers and outdoor recreators, in particular – the book is a poignant and relevant take on the historical role of big business in addressing the climate crisis. Schendler’s rejection of the subjective and often immeasurable climate goals put forth by businesses – the outdoor industry among the most guilty – is refreshing, notably because it filets the fluff in favor of a finer focus on fixed targets.
The most defining aspect of “Terrible Beauty” is Schendler’s utter disdain for blanket sustainability promises and corporate greenwashing. Any who even lightly follow environmental news are likely equally jaded by carbon neutrality promises that won’t come to fruition until after an organization’s current leadership resigns or retires. The book is a tear down of those who’ve shifted the blame off themselves, including British Petroleum, which Schendler notes and history confirms invented the concept of the “personal carbon footprint” in order to pass the buck onto its consumers.
“Terrible Beauty” isn’t a feel-good look at how far we’ve come. Nor is it a pat on the back for businesses including Aspen One that have gone to great lengths to mitigate their carbon emissions. Rather, it’s a cut-through-the-crap account of what’s been done, what needs to be done, and what’s a waste of time when it comes to climate action. All this combines to make “Terrible Beauty” the most uplifting and important read of the past decade for outdoorspeople of all stripes.
Matador Network spoke with Schendler to provide context to this review.
Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to buy the book.
Who is Auden Schendler, and why the hell should we listen to him?
Photo courtesy Aspen One
Schendler has been the “sustainability guy” at Aspen Ski Co – now part of the Aspen One umbrella – for some 25 years and has been involved in corporate climate action almost since its inception. In the early chapters of “Terrible Beauty” he describes his time working at the Rocky Mountain Institute, a non-profit that, in part, advises businesses on how to reduce emissions to transform the global energy system, back in the 1980s and ‘90s, when “corporate sustainability” was a fresh term. With Aspen, he led efforts to turn an old coal mine into a methane-to-energy plant, developed large-scale renewable energy platforms to power skier operations and off-mountain amenities, and has written extensively about impactful efforts the outdoor industry can take (and opportunities missed) to reduce its environmental impact. His prior book, “Getting Green Done: Hard Truths from the Front Lines of the Sustainability Revolution,” published in 2009.
He’s also a parent and his son’s childhood fascination with garden gnomes acts as a conduit to the varying themes portrayed in “Terrible Beauty.” Gnomes, Schendler points out, maintain an ideal relationship with their surrounding environment – being at once master gardeners, stewards of the land, and upholders of animal rights. If only we could learn from them. As a parent myself, I find myself daily wondering about the future my daughter will inherit.
“The book is part memoir, part polemic, part parenting manual, part homage to beauty and existence,” Schendler says. “And it balances stories about life with examples of how to solve climate from my own experience. It’s a weird book—between each chapter I have “interludes” about life in a climate changed world. It’s basically my life’s work, intended for a very broad audience, not just business people, and it took three years to get done.”
Importantly, Schendler attempts to shift the conversation about climate change back towards big businesses. This is where the solutions lie to what will become our collective children’s problem. He argues that incrementalism – swapping light bulbs, installing bike racks for employees – are insufficient efforts by big business, and in many cases distract from the large systemic change necessary to evolve modern society into a sustainable operation. He advocates for policy work and the cooperation of business and government to identify and fund large-scale solutions as the proper way forward.
As such, Schendler is perhaps the one person qualified to provide a macro view on why current environmental efforts from businesses aren’t enough and, where necessary, call out greenwashing or wasted effort, which he does repeatedly throughout the book.
Why “Terrible Beauty is a must-read for environmentally-minded outdoorspeople
Photo: jdross75/Shutterstock
At the heart of “Terrible Beauty” is this question: Are citizens responsible for climate change simply for participating in the modern economy, when we never asked for convenience to be delivered in most harmful way possible?
“In short, I don’t believe that citizens, or businesses, are responsible for the fact that they live in a fossil fuel economy they did not ask for or create, and the science behind which was obfuscated or directly hidden from them,” Schendler told me, aligning with the book’s general thesis. “Yes, people asked for affordable heat, mobility, refrigeration, etc. But they did not say, ‘please provide that in a way that will destroy civilization.’”
Schendler acknowledges that we are where we are because of fossil fuels, but argues that the time has come to move beyond them.
“Fossil fuels served our needs admirably for a time,” Schendler says. “But once we understood the science (1950, Exxon by 1977), a functional society not owned by money in politics would have acted on the science. But instead, the science was hidden and the public conversation was co-opted. Further, I think that to take blame like this is to play directly into the hands of the fossil fuel industry, which wants you to feel guilty and mess around in your own little world but importantly, *not get in their way.* I think the obligation of citizens and businesses is to work to change the entire fossil fuel economy. And I lay out many ways to think about that, and how to do it, in my book. Businesses or citizens can’t be called hypocrites for, say, driving and SUV, if they are diligently and seriously working to change the whole system.”
At times Schendler does repeat himself. There are stories that are irrelevant. The incessant recounting of both Aspen and other corporations efforts, the critique of the “trailer park lifestyle” from his days as an insulator – add a few thousand words to the book that could have been trimmed. In his defense, those in the thick of environmental advocacy are by now so accustomed to saying the same thing over and over, and constantly feeling the need to justify themselves, that we often fail to realize it’s happening.
Notably absent from “Terrible Beauty” is the self-aggrandizing naval gazing so common in narrative environmental writing. Though he spends ample time discussing his career, family, and immediate contacts, Schendler refrains from presenting his path as righteous. Rather, he frequently calls out overinflated efforts and identifies points where he, his company, or the movement at large could and should have done things differently.
While acknowledging the role of technology in addressing climate change, Schendler cautions against relying solely on future technological solutions. Most of what we need already exists, he notes – what is lacking is scale and corporate accountability. While the onus is on big business, he does note the importance of personal responsibility and shows respect for those who take action. He believes that the transition to renewable energy is inevitable.
“There has never been any question about (whether the transition will happen),” Schendler says. “The issue is how we get it done in the timeframe required to stabilize earth’s climate.”
The theme most prominent from early to late in “Terrible Beauty” is that doing the right thing is increasingly aligned with doing the profitable thing. Solar power is now more affordable than other forms of energy. Plugging insulation gaps offers returns exceeding 10x. Sourcing food locally is both trendy and in some cases more reliable, given supply chain disruptions and disease outbreaks in the food chain. Composting waste and riding bikes are just the icing on the cake. Rarely does reading about the business side of the outdoor industry provide so much inspiration.
Tired of the Office Holiday Party? Try Japan’s ‘Forget-the-Year’ Party Instead.
The end-of-year holiday party is a tradition in the United States. Calling it a beloved tradition would be a stretch — there’s a vast cultural catalog of TV shows, movies, books, and stories skewering the weird dynamics of a work holiday party. If you ask HR companies, there’s a strong chance you’ll hear something along the lines of holiday parties with free-flowing alcohol are a huge risk. Throw in the awkwardness of a party after companies have downsized ahead of the new year, and it would be hard to blame workers who suddenly can’t go because of a “surprise” last-minute obligation they can’t get out of.
End-of-year parties aren’t specific to the US, of course. And there’s an argument to be made that the theme in other cultures may (depending on your disposition and feelings about spending even more time with the people you work with) be more appealing. Take, for example, the Japanese tradition of bōnenkai.
Bōnenkai roughly translates to “forget the year party.” There are some similarities to holiday parties in the US — informal food, bottomless drinks, casual (perhaps too casual) conversations with work superiors, reluctance to attend by some. Attire differs, however, as workers typically wear the same thing they wear to the office, ties and all. The filter of Western religious holidays that often cover the parties in the US in some way big or small are absent. Bōnenkai also aren’t just limited to one company party, as various work departments and community groups will also hold the events in smaller groups.
The biggest difference is that bōnenkai don’t shy away from the beverages, particularly beer and sake. In fact, with “forgetting” being a major component, the drinks often take a central place.
“The first character is bo, to forget,” Kisa, who works with Sapporo, said during a demonstration bōnenkai done over video call with members of the Sapporo teams in Japan and California. “You have such a great time that you forget all the troubles of the year and look forward to the new year. Today, you see a lot of drinking on the street and letting of all the things people experienced at the end of the year.”
For the year of the snake in 2025, Sapporo tapped tattoo artist Tokyo Hiro for the design. The open- and closed-mouth snakes symbolize the year ending and the beginning of another, and peonies represent good luck. Photo: Sapporo
These large company parties are typically held in izakaya, which are casual Japanese bars that also serve snacks like skewered meat and fried bites. Someone high up in the company gives an opening speech with drink in hand. The year past is discussed before a raised glass and kanpai (cheers). Only then can the eating and drinking commence — and lots of it. Japanese tradition holds that empty glasses should be filled by others (particularly by those lower down the totem pole and always poured with two hands, called oshaku), so empty glasses are a bit of a rarity.
There’s some time to fill up and get a buzz before the entertainment: karaoke is popular, as are little staged shows that poke fun at a cultural moment from the past year. More drinks and food follow. It all ends with sanbon-jime — a rhythmic clap done in unison and led by someone higher up (Hiro Kitaoka, chairman of the Sapporo-owned Stone Brewing led ours on the video bōnenkai): three successive claps and then one closing clap, repeated for a total of three times. One last hurrah and the bōnenkai is done (except for those who want to continue the drinking at the nijikai, or after party).
It all sounds like a modern occasion, but bōnenkai has a centuries-old history. The precursor in the 15th century were nōkai (“great achievement gathering”). They transitioned to bōnenkai in the 18th century. By the Meiji period in the late 1800s, the tradition was solidified across classes.
Coincidentally, this was also about the same time that Japan’s oldest brewery was founded. Seibei Nakagawa illegally left his home country and fell in love with beer in Europe, learning the trade in Germany and becoming a certified brewmaster. When Japan’s isolationist laws ended and the country’s leaders wanted an internationally-minded brewery, Nakagawa came back and founded Sapporo in 1876. Beer may not have been the widespread drink of choice in those early bōnenkai years, but it surely is the most reached for beverage now. Japan is the 10th most beer-consuming country in the world.
Big or small, bōnenkai is a loose and free flowing end-of-year party for those tired of the well-worn US holiday party. Sometimes we can all use a little forgetting to get refreshed and ready for what’s to come in the year ahead.
December 11, 2024
Surrey’s Cottage Core Airbnbs Help You Live Out ‘The Holiday’ IRL
If you’re dreaming of a cozy little cottage down a narrow tree-draped lane in England, perhaps called Honeysuckle Cottage or something of that ilk, you’ve likely re-watched The Holiday recently. If so, and you are feeling inspired to plan a rural trip to the UK, Surrey, England, where the film was shot, is a perfect place to start. I say this because it’s under a two-hour drive from London. People commute on trains from this region into the city on a daily basis. It’s that well-connected. So, this region is a superb base if you fancy teaming up a city jaunt to the capital with a few days in the English countryside. Aside from a drunken Jude Law stumbling into your cottage — trust me, that will never happen — rural life here in the UK is pretty similar to how it’s portrayed in the movies. The views are breathtaking, the community spirit is warming, the kettle is always on, pubs have fireplaces, and many of us live in dreamy cottages with low beamed ceilings, kitchen stoves, and no neighbors. If that sounds like heaven to you, check out these Airbnbs in Surrey. Unless you can pack like Diaz and hot tail it across the pond, it might be too late for an adventure this Christmas, but these storybook rentals deserve to be bookmarked.
We hope you love the Surrey, England Airbnb rentals 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.
Country home with amazing views in the heart of Surrey Downs
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis beautiful, family-friendly country cottage is in Chipstead, in the heart of Surrey Downs. With a quick look (ok, I went down a rabbit hole) at houses for sale in the area, you’d need lottery money to live here. The area is picture-perfect, surrounded by rolling hills, woodland, nature reserves, and lovely local pubs with names like Ramblers Rest. This is an excellent find if you’re traveling with family and friends. It sleeps up to six and is set on half an acre of gardens. It has a Mediterranean-style outdoor area with a built-in BBQ and a bright and spacious farmhouse kitchen with countryside views. There are three double bedrooms, a comfortable lounge for afternoon tea, a playroom for kids, and a study.
Six guests, three bedroom
Price: $575 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosYou might have to rush to beat me to booking this barn in Witley. Witley is around an hour from London, making it another place in the South that’s quite exclusive because people can commute into the city and be on a capital-level salary but, at the end of the day, retreat to the countryside. The village is small. It has a post office and shop (where you’ll likely get the local gossip) and a few pubs and restaurants. If you love the outdoors, you won’t need organized sports here. You can simply walk out the front door and hike, cycle, or horse ride into the surrounding hills. The barn’s host, Kate (no, I’m not joking here), has rave reviews from past guests, making this rental extremely popular, so booking in advance is recommended. It sleeps four guests in king-sized bedrooms and there’s secure gated parking.
Four guests, two bedroom
Price: $245 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosIf you’re a solo traveler wanting an escape, this is the one for you. Again, we can’t promise a visit from Jude Law, but you might fall in love with this one-bedroom studio instead. It’s one of Airbnbs top five percent listings. It’s five minutes from the pretty town of Windsor and has direct views of Windsor Great Park and the castle — the oldest occupied castle in the world, home to 39 monarchs over 900-year history. The studio sits on a private estate once owned by King Henry VIII and is surrounded by trees and woodland wildlife. It’s the perfect rental if you want the tranquility of the countryside and the hustle and bustle of a market town. Keep in mind, however, that come summer, Windsor is incredibly busy with both UK and international visitors, so you’ll need to make reservations for dinner, etc, in advance.
Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $258 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis is another great find for groups and families who want an English countryside escape where the only nearby traffic is horse riders and walkers. Here, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful meadows, woodlands, and wildlife, and you can stroll into the ancient village of Dorking to browse antique shops, get some produce at the farmers market, and have a pint in the pub. This stylish barn conversion set on a 15th-century farm. It ticks all the boxes: wood-burning stove, farmhouse kitchen, and beamed ceilings. If you need more space, there’s a stable cottage available to rent that sleeps four and a hayloft that sleeps an extra two guests.
Six guests, three bedroom
Price: $319 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosIf you really need to get away from it all, check out this luxury log cabin. It’s set in the middle of a private five-acre island near Newdigate. Still, you’ll be able to drive to a well-stocked village and farm shop to stock up on wine in five or so minutes and there’s a decent pub nearby too. This is another top percent listing on Airbnb, awarded for exceptional guest reviews. You’ll have private access to the lake. If you’re there during summer you can fish, swim, or paddle board. In winter, you can snuggle down by the fire, drink all your wine, read, and check-out for a few days. Sounds like heaven to me.
Four guests, two bedroom
Price: $319 per night
Surrey’s Cottage Core Airbnbs Help You Live Out The Holiday IRL
If you’re dreaming of a cozy little cottage down a narrow tree-draped lane in England, perhaps called Honeysuckle Cottage or something of that ilk, you’ve likely re-watched The Holiday recently. If so, and you are feeling inspired to plan a rural trip to the UK, Surrey, England, where the film was shot, is a perfect place to start. I say this because it’s under a two-hour drive from London. People commute on trains from this region into the city on a daily basis. It’s that well-connected. So, this region is a superb base if you fancy teaming up a city jaunt to the capital with a few days in the English countryside. Aside from a drunken Jude Law stumbling into your cottage — trust me, that will never happen — rural life here in the UK is pretty similar to how it’s portrayed in the movies. The views are breathtaking, the community spirit is warming, the kettle is always on, pubs have fireplaces, and many of us live in dreamy cottages with low beamed ceilings, kitchen stoves, and no neighbors. If that sounds like heaven to you, check out these Airbnbs in Surrey. Unless you can pack like Diaz and hot tail it across the pond, it might be too late for an adventure this Christmas, but these storybook rentals deserve to be bookmarked.
We hope you love the Surrey, England Airbnb rentals 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.
Country home with amazing views in the heart of Surrey DownsPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbSee more photosThis beautiful, family-friendly country cottage is in Chipstead, in the heart of Surrey Downs. With a quick look (ok, I went down a rabbit hole) at houses for sale in the area, you’d need lottery money to live here. The area is picture-perfect, surrounded by rolling hills, woodland, nature reserves, and lovely local pubs with names like Ramblers Rest. This is an excellent find if you’re traveling with family and friends. It sleeps up to six and is set on half an acre of gardens. It has a Mediterranean-style outdoor area with a built-in BBQ and a bright and spacious farmhouse kitchen with countryside views. There are three double bedrooms, a comfortable lounge for afternoon tea, a playroom for kids, and a study.
Six guests, three bedroom
Price: $575 per night
Photo: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbSee more photosYou might have to rush to beat me to booking this barn in Witley. Witley is around an hour from London, making it another place in the South that’s quite exclusive because people can commute into the city and be on a capital-level salary but, at the end of the day, retreat to the countryside. The village is small. It has a post office and shop (where you’ll likely get the local gossip) and a few pubs and restaurants. If you love the outdoors, you won’t need organized sports here. You can simply walk out the front door and hike, cycle, or horse ride into the surrounding hills. The barn’s host, Kate (no, I’m not joking here), has rave reviews from past guests, making this rental extremely popular, so booking in advance is recommended. It sleeps four guests in king-sized bedrooms and there’s secure gated parking.
Four guests, two bedroom
Price: $245 per night
Photo: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbSee more photosIf you’re a solo traveler wanting an escape, this is the one for you. Again, we can’t promise a visit from Jude Law, but you might fall in love with this one-bedroom studio instead. It’s one of Airbnbs top five percent listings. It’s five minutes from the pretty town of Windsor and has direct views of Windsor Great Park and the castle — the oldest occupied castle in the world, home to 39 monarchs over 900-year history. The studio sits on a private estate once owned by King Henry VIII and is surrounded by trees and woodland wildlife. It’s the perfect rental if you want the tranquility of the countryside and the hustle and bustle of a market town. Keep in mind, however, that come summer, Windsor is incredibly busy with both UK and international visitors, so you’ll need to make reservations for dinner, etc, in advance.
Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $258 per night
Photo: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbSee more photosThis is another great find for groups and families who want an English countryside escape where the only nearby traffic is horse riders and walkers. Here, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful meadows, woodlands, and wildlife, and you can stroll into the ancient village of Dorking to browse antique shops, get some produce at the farmers market, and have a pint in the pub. This stylish barn conversion set on a 15th-century farm. It ticks all the boxes: wood-burning stove, farmhouse kitchen, and beamed ceilings. If you need more space, there’s a stable cottage available to rent that sleeps four and a hayloft that sleeps an extra two guests.
Six guests, three bedroom
Price: $319 per night
Photo: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbSee more photosIf you really need to get away from it all, check out this luxury log cabin. It’s set in the middle of a private five-acre island near Newdigate. Still, you’ll be able to drive to a well-stocked village and farm shop to stock up on wine in five or so minutes and there’s a decent pub nearby too. This is another top percent listing on Airbnb, awarded for exceptional guest reviews. You’ll have private access to the lake. If you’re there during summer you can fish, swim, or paddle board. In winter, you can snuggle down by the fire, drink all your wine, read, and check-out for a few days. Sounds like heaven to me.
Four guests, two bedroom
Price: $319 per night
Live Like a Modern Professional Cowboy at This All-Inclusive Montana Ranch Resort
For Paws Up Montana imagery, see these images https://app.air.inc/a/b9UsoUWnM
As you’re pulling into The Resort at Paws Up Montana, it doesn’t feel like visiting any other regular hotel or resort property — it feels like you’re returning home to your family’s cozy Western ranch home. Paws Up Montana is a family-owned property surrounded by open blue skies and grassy pastures, plopped in the middle of a wide open space in Greenough, Montana, 35 miles northeast of Missoula. While this sprawling western Montana property is technically still a working cattle ranch, it’s also a place open for audaciously spirited visitors to stay, create unforgettable memories, and live out fantastical wild west cowboy dreams. The rustic yet elevated and sophisticated ambiance balances adventures with elegance and is an outdoor lovers’ dream come true, any time of year. On a recent visit, I learned why.
What to expect during a stay at The Resort at Paws Up Montana
Photo courtesy Paws Up Montana
There are a plethora of active adventures available to enjoy at Paws Up Montana, ranging from the 100 miles of hiking trails nearby to mountain biking trails, equestrian experiences, and more. One of the most standout details of planning a visit to Paws Up is that it’s one of the only all-inclusive resort properties in the U.S., and the only one that combines such sophisticated resort amenities with dude ranch vibes. Plus, it’s even dog-friendly (my pup was greatly spoiled with the open space and comfortable dog beds during our visit).
Every stay begins and ends with complimentary round-trip airport transportation from Missoula Montana Airport for those who fly in — and guests don’t have to worry about how they’ll get around while they’re on-site, because a booking also includes access to a personal Lexus NX for on-property transportation (for luxury home guests) and on-demand shuttle services (for camp guests).
All daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), nonalcoholic beverages, and a selection of wine, beer, and select cocktails are included (and those who want a “premium” spirit in their cocktail just need to pay a bit more for the individual selection — but otherwise, standard liquors are covered).
Guests also have access to non-guided on-site activities like hiking, but it’s important to note that just as most other “all-inclusive” properties, the spa treatments and bookable adventure activities (like archery, or an ATV tour) are not part of the “inclusive” package. However, perhaps one of the most notable (and one of my favorite) elements of the “inclusive” model is that tips are included, so you’ll never have to worry about signing a check after dinner or doing the math on how much to leave your server or activity guide.
I spent three nights on-site with my dog and my husband in late October, and it felt like we were the only people on the 37,000 property — as if we had the whole place to ourselves.
I can only speak to what the resort feels like during autumn, outside of the official summer or winter season, when the activities change, and the “glamping” tents had been shuttered for the season. But in the high season, this resort boasts accommodations for up to 275 guests across 28 luxury homes and 36 glamping tents (with seasonal availability). And it’s not your standard “resort” layout.
Accommodations at The Resort at Paws Up Montana
The Meadow Homes. Photo courtesy Paws Up Montana
While driving to the guest welcoming/reception area of The Village after pulling off a vast stretch of rolling hilled highway leading up to the property (blink, and you’ll miss it), you’ll likely spy a glimpse of wildlife lazily grazing on the pasture. The 300-head herd of resident elk, some of the hundred Black Angus cows, and the savvy deer who have figured out they’re safe from the local hunters’ range while on Paws Up land roam free.
I checked in and headed to my cozy single-story Meadow Home, which can be an ideal setup for couples, families, and friends who want to spend time together — but also seek their own space. My cabin had 1,100 square feet of space with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, as well as a full living room and a sizable deck with a hot tub. I can’t speak to how the glamping tents are decorated — but our Meadow Home felt like it was set in a classic sort of Western-chic flair and furnished with upscale design touches, like leather couches and timber and iron headboards.
One of my favorite elements of design in my Meadow Home was the comfortable, large bathroom, which featured the much-appreciated luxury of a heated granite-tile floor. It honestly hurts to go back to non-heated floors once you’ve experienced this special flavor of opulence.
The Meadow Homes also feature a large kitchen with a full-sized refrigerator, microwave and dishwasher — as well as a dining room table and chair set to gather around for games and meals.
In the cozy living room, there’s a big flat-screen TV with satellite programming and access to subscription services for shows and movies (I caught up on a fair amount of my Netflix binge-watching while relaxing each night).
The outdoor hot tubs are another incredible detail when spending time in one of the luxury home accommodations. Even though it dropped down into the 30s after dark, I was cozied up in the hot tub, stargazing every single night.
Dining at The Resort at Paws Up Montana
Photo courtesy Paws Up Montana
The seasonal, outdoors-focused dining outlets were closed for the winter while I was visiting (this includes outposts like Shed and Chuck Wagon — which I’ve heard are great), which left the remaining “year-round” outlets at the “Cook Shack” area, which is centrally located near the entrance to Paws Up and the village. This spot is known as the resort’s “culinary headquarters” and is where the two year-round restaurants and full-service bar are situated.
Dine at Pomp if you’re seeking something sophisticated. This is the upscale gourmet restaurant, which serves “continental cuisine with a Western flair” using local ingredients (which means the menu is constantly changing with each season — and I appreciated that this team is very attuned to your individual dietary needs).
We had to make a reservation to eat here, but they knew my allergies upfront, which was helpful. I was told the team seemingly builds the nightly three-course menu with various options folks can choose from depending on their taste — including a vegetarian option, one kind of red meat dish, and one kind of light meat dish like chicken or fish.
Next door at Trough, it’s a more casual mood for dining, with menus offering hearty options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Finally, Tank features a selection of the “finest drink selections in the West” in a casual environment with a spirited atmosphere, including flat-screen TVs for watching sports (but you honestly might be too distracted by the awe-inspiring views of the rolling hills and wildlife outside).
And there’s, of course, in-room dining service — which means if you’re as wiped out as I was the day we arrived (after a lengthy drive up from Colorado since my dog is too big to fly) I was able to eat in the comfort of my own cabin in pajamas.
The IRD menu featured many of the same menu items served at the restaurants. There’s also a special delivery option for those staying in the luxury home accommodations who crave a simple and comforting pizza pie — the Grizzly Gourmet Pizza Delivery. Because sometimes, even when you’re out in the Montana wilderness, you just need a pizza (their menu also offers salads, sides, and desserts).
Spa at The Resort at Paws Up Montana
Photo courtesy Paws Up Montana
Again, I was staying on-site in the fall when the property’s full-fledged outdoor “Spa Town” had already been taken down — but from what I could see, the Spa Town setup at Paws Up Montana looks like a gorgeous setup. There’s a lineup of relaxing canvas tents (which have full baths and heated massage tables) connected by a dreamy wooden boardwalk nestled into a hill on the property overlooking the plains. The idea of spending time in Spa town is for you to feel “lost in the woods” with a state of total immersion into nature while you’re enjoying your treatment.
For fitness fanatics who need more than a trail ride or a hike outdoors, the indoor 24/7 gym space is sizable and clean, featuring elliptical machines, free weights, medicine balls, stationary bikes, and treadmills.
Activities and on-site entertainment
Interior of a Meadow Home. Photo courtesy Paws Up Montana
No matter how many days you’re planning to visit Paws Up, you’ll never run out of things to do. This property has its own 37,000 acres of space, including the aforementioned 100-plus miles of trails, and it’s close to the 1.5-million-acre Bob Marshall Wilderness, which means seemingly endless opportunities for outdoor escapades.
I was lucky enough to try a few different activities during my visit. On a private hike, my local guide was incredibly well-versed in the flora found across our pathway. She’d point out various plants and tell me what they were (or still are) used for in natural healing practices. It was fascinating to learn about how when we’re outdoors, we’re surrounded by natural medicines and sustenance — if we know where to look for it.
After the hike, the guide led a sound bath experience for me, which took place in the ethereal-feeling glass house at Spa Town, bathed in sunlight and with an inspiring view of the rolling plains.
In an archery session, I was pleasantly surprised by how interactive our guide was in helping me live out my fantasy of shooting arrows like Katniss Everdeen (albeit with far worse accuracy and endurance). Archery participants are taken into a special area of the woods on the property near the Meadow Homes, onto a course with ten different archery stations outfitted with foam animals (the bear and jackalope were my favorite targets) set in the woods. There are even two elevated platforms to simulate a tree stand.
On a guided ATV tour, we sped around the property, seeing various sights and learning about the gripping history of the land on which Paws Up Montana lives (its stories date back hundreds of years).
Photo courtesy Paws Up Montana
But perhaps the most unique experience I had while visiting Paws Up was participating in a real-life “Cattle Drive.” I was admittedly nervous about this activity while preparing to participate, looking back. I’d seen cattle drives before, and it looked like the cowboys and cowgirls had such a strong presence and skill while herding these independent animals with their horses.
In reality, there was nothing to be nervous about — but as someone who has only ridden on a few horses, I didn’t know what to expect and didn’t have much confidence in my personal “herding” abilities. When we arrived at the Saddle Club facility (which actually hosts a ton of activities for those interested in this special brand of “horseplay,”) we were matched with our own horses by one of the guides based on our personalities and equestrian experience.
We saddled up and spent about 45 minutes taking the reins (pun intended), learning the ropes, and bonding with our horses while figuring out how to work with them. I no longer felt intimidated by the time we set off for the action. I still couldn’t believe I was actively participating in an essential activity on this working ranch.
We rode out to the field, where dozens of 800-pound Corriente cows were grazing. We used the techniques we had been taught on how to herd the cattle in a certain direction, and it turned out to be much more straightforward than I’d expected. The cattle drive became a sort of spiritual experience. There was mutual respect between the horses and the cattle, a powerful symbiotic relationship where the horses used their unspoken (but palpable) influence and presence to get the enormous cows to meander all together in a specific direction.
We rode our animals around the cows in certain formations, catching stragglers and nipping the ones who tried to defy the horse’s power. We led them in a direction toward a specific Paws Up pasture where they’d stay for the night.
When we finished the herding, we turned and guided our horses back toward the Saddle Club. It was golden hour, and the rays of sun filtering through the dust in the air from our horses’ rhythmic clomping hooves were shining down on the Montana countryside as if we were all starting in a dreamy movie instead of real life.
We were by then an accomplished team of wranglers. One guest asked (and it didn’t sound like he was completely joking) if Paws Up was hiring — because he’d love to join them on a regular basis. They actually said, “yes.”
The Cattle Drive was an incredibly unique activity offered at Paws Up — and I feel like it could serve as both an educational and personally transformative experience for anyone who’s willing to respectfully give it a try.
Come for the seclusion, freedom, and open space — come back for the community atmosphere
Photo courtesy Paws Up Montana
Everyone who works at Paws Up is warm, welcoming, and passionate about the property, and you can feel it while you’re visiting. The food is tasty, the drinks are expertly curated, and the activities are potentially life-changing (especially if you do end up quitting your job and joining their team as a wrangler). The accommodations are an adventure — but the folks who make the experience feel worthwhile are the reason so many guests return year after year to make Paws Up Montana their regular vacation spot to spend time with family and friends.
Miami Is a Rum Lover’s Paradise. This Rum Bar Crawl Features Some of the Best Cocktails in Vice City.
Being just a stone’s throw away from Caribbean islands, Miami is naturally a prime destination for fans of rum. Rum — distilled from sugar cane or molasses that is the key ingredient to Tortuga cakes and classic tropical cocktails like the piña colada — needs no introduction. Yet the spirit gets special attention in Vice City, and both rum lovers and those who haven’t quite found how they like their rum served will find new favorites.
On a Miami rum tour with the team from Diplomático, I embarked on a bar crawl to several local hot spots to explore some of the most iconic rum drinks served around the city. You’re sure to find something you enjoy here, from strong to fruity to easy drinking.
The Social ClubView this post on InstagramA post shared by The Social Club (@socialclubsobe)
I started at The Social Club in the Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel, an Art Deco staple of Miami Beach. As strange as it sounds, many (if not most) local haunts in Miami tend to be hotel bars. Why? Hotels know how to take care of customers, and the bars tend to be the chicest and swankiest in town (especially compared to your typical dive bar with questionable hygiene that you age out of after college).
Nestled between the busy tourist strip of Collins Avenue and the beach, The Social Club is a great spot to land after a sunset stroll on the boardwalk. If the smell of food behind you makes your stomach growl, take a seat where the venue also serves dinner. Main plates like the snapper, salmon, or steak start at $40, but listen, that’s what you have to pay in Miami Beach to get away from noisy tourists. A classic rum cocktail will quickly make you forget about sticker shock.
Photo: Keven Gungor
What to try: A daiquiri with the perfect balance between silky rum and sour lime juice. For a daiquiri you know you’ll enjoy, request Planas, Diplomático’s only clear rum that is charcoal-filtered and has the ideal consistency and flavor for the perfect classic daiquiri.
The Social Club: 1717 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Miami Sound BarView this post on InstagramA post shared by Miami Sound Bar (@miasoundbar)
Next, I strolled into a mixology class at the clandestine Miami Sound Bar downtown. It’s easy to miss without the address on hand — from the outside, it is hard to tell what this place is all about and it looks more like a sushi joint for secret business meetings than a retro record bar.
While the bartender was teaching us about ratios of liquor to juices and syrups, my eyes wandered to the vinyls behind her. The bar itself even has a built-in turn table, so that you can sip while both listening and watching a master at work. What I love about bars like this is forced intimacy: there’s no dance floor, or an awkward distance from one corner to the other. It’s a corridor-shaped lounge where you’re either seated at the bar or on the couch a few feet away. There’s no frou frou along with the great cocktails — you’re either here to listen to great vintage records, or to chat with the person next to you (or both).
What to try: A 1989 Sunset — made with a base of Diplomático Mantuano along with rose water, orange blossom water, club soda, and, the kicker, date syrup to create a refreshing blended cocktail.
Miami Sound Bar: 123 SE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33131
dōmaView this post on InstagramA post shared by dōma restaurant (@domamiami)
While dōma is the only spot on this list that isn’t technically a bar, it’s worth a mention for a few reasons. Though there is a bar right at the entrance, it’s not a proper visit to Miami without a courtyard seating (especially mid-winter). This particular courtyard captures Miami perfectly. dōma is in Wynwood, a once-grungey neighborhood that has been become a Miami hotspot as gargantuan warehouses turned into nightlife venues and barren, industrial walls transformed into modern murals. Today, Wynwood is one of the Miami tourist spots that’s actually worth seeing. But when you find yourself in a courtyard like dōma’s, with lush greenery enveloping its corners, suddenly you remember you’re in a tropical climate despite the urban, concrete backdrop outside of this enclave.
dōma serves Italian dishes, with pasta plates starting at about $35 and meat and fish entrées at about $45. Yes, Italian food is paired best with wine, but I was surprised to find my favorite rum cocktail on this tour was served in this restaurant.
Photo: Keven Gungor
What to try: The Mr. Juancho, which is made with Diplomático’s Reserve Exclusiva, lime juice, mint syrup, and prosecco. Bringing all of these ingredients together in one beverage, and the way those flavors blended together, made this my favorite rum drink of the trip. The effervescence of prosecco and the cooling effect of mint both bring a refreshing blast, while the lime juice adds just enough acidity to appreciate the bold rum.
dōma: 35 NE 26th St, Miami, FL 33137
Cafe La TrovaView this post on InstagramA post shared by Café La Trova (@cafelatrovamiami)
A Miami excursion is not complete without a trip to Calle Ocho (8th Street) in the iconic Little Havana neighborhood. Though Miami is a melting pot of Latin cultures, its Cuban roots are undeniably the strongest. At Cafe La Trova, you can either enjoy a meal facing live Cuban musicians, or head to the back for a bar with retro vibes.
This bar referred to as the 305 Bar (a nod to Miami’s area code) sports a 1980s Miami Vice aura, with walls that blend hot pink and mint green with flashy neon signs. Campy? Yes. Nostalgic? Absolutely.
Photo: Keven Gungor
What to try: The Hotel Nacional, made with Mantuano, pineapple juice, lime juice, and apricot liqueur. This drink brings you right into a throwback Cuban paradise.
Cafe La Trova: 971 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33130
Dante’s HiFiView this post on InstagramA post shared by Caroline “Carozilla” Cardenas (@car0zilla)
Dante’s HiFi is the second bar on this list that relies on live vinyl spins to lure both Miami locals and tourists alike, though its vibe is totally different from Miami Sound Bar. While Miami Sound Bar is more intimate and lowkey, Dante’s frequently has a line outside around the block. The later you show up, the more likely you’ll wait in line. During the day, this venue is mysteriously quiet and surrounded by shops, but at night, it’s a different story. Much like the rest of Wynwood, Dante’s awakens after the sun sets.
The bar at Dante’s is backed by an entire wall of shelves filled with vinyls, as a DJ spins records until 3 AM almost daily. This notorious part of the Miami social scene is also known for occasional celebrity drop-ins.
Photo: Keven Gungor
What to try: A Dizzy Gillespie, which blends rum with lime juice, starfruit, thyme, and salted honey. This sweet concoction will get you buzzing while dancing to live tunes.
Dante’s HiFi: 519 NW 26th St, Miami, FL 33127
SwizzleView this post on InstagramA post shared by Swizzle Rum Bar & Drinkery Miami Beach (@swizzle_rumbar_drinkery)
A rum bar tour of Miami would not be complete without Swizzle. You can only find Swizzle if you know exactly where you’re going. Otherwise, it’s impossible to find while strolling down Collins Avenue in South Beach. By heading to what seems to be the basement area of the unassuming Viajero Miami Hotel, you find yourself transported to a dimly lit corridor that leads to an accordion-like door with a sign: “Please Ring The Bell x5 Times.”
A server in old-school 1950s bartender attire appears and folds the door back to usher you in. Inside Swizzle, you’ve got a few small rooms to pick from, each with antique decor and only a handful of tables for seating, making for a cozy date night or outing with a few close friends.
What to try: Diplomático’s Ambassador or Single Vintage, both ultra-premium rums best enjoyed neat, which come in handy at an elegant spot like this sequestered speakeasy. While both sport a dark amber color, Ambassador carries notes of cigar, dried fruits, and chocolate, whereas Single Vintage possesses hints of red fruits, smoked wood, and coffee.
Swizzle: 1120 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
This Is Possibly the Simplest, Cheapest Hack to Help You Sleep on Planes
If you fly in Economy Class regularly, regardless of the airline, you know that sleeping is a struggle. The lack of legroom, the narrow seats, and the absence of head support is making catching some z’s in flight nearly impossible, no matter how many expert tips you follow, or the number of gadgets you purchase.
Content Creator Grace Park, known as shiretoerebor on Instagram, might have found the cheapest and simplest solution: using a scarf to support your head while you snooze.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Bilbo Baggins (@shiretoerebor)
Before you scream at your telephone that by using this hack she’s covering the video screen of the person behind her, watch the clip again — but a little more attentively this time. You’ll notice that she is sliding the scarf behind the headrest (the little head cushion with flaps found in most aircrafts), not the seat itself, therefore, she isn’t bothering anyone by trying to find a comfortable way to sleep.
While the hack is ingenious and costs nothing (you probably have a scarf that you can use for this purpose around your house), we can all agree that Park could find something a little more comfortable than the thin, strap-like neckwear she’s seen using in the video above. A wider, softer, and thicker scarf would make the hack a lot cozier.
TikToker Rachel Chatoor has found a way to improve on the hack dramatically by using a soft infinity scarf. This way, here’s no large, awkward knot to content with, and the scarf can double as an eye mask.
@rachaelchatoorSave your head from bobbing about with this travel hack!
♬ original sound – Rachael Chatoor
Before you spend your hard-earned money in a neck pillow, or some other expensive contraptions, give this hack a try. Just make sure that, no matter what type of scarf you opt to use, it isn’t too tight and becomes a choking hazard.
Alaska Airlines Announces First-Ever International Flights to Asia
Alaska Airlines just acquired Hawaiian Airlines, and it’s already making good on its promise not to cut service. In fact, it’s doing the opposite: The airline just announced it’s adding direct flights to Asia for the first time in its history. And they’re to seriously cool destinations.
As of December 2024, Alaska Airlines primarily operates flights within North and Central America, serving destinations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Belize, Guatemala, and the Bahamas. But it just announced it’s expanding its international reach with nonstop service to Tokyo, Japan, and Seoul, South Korea, from its primary airport hub in Seattle, WA. The flights will be on Hawaiian Airlines (the two brands have not yet merged) and mark the new company’s first scheduled flights beyond North and Central America. Service to Tokyo will begin on May 12, 2025, while flights to Seoul will start in October of 2025.
Bukchon Hanok Village with Seoul city skyline in the distance. Photo: f11Photo/Shutterstock
The new Alaska Airlines flights are a logical addition for the company, as Hawaiian Airlines currently flies between the US West Coast, Hawaii, Tokyo and Seoul, so the new flights will further enhance the shared brand’s offerings on that travel corridor.
However, those two new routes aren’t the only expansions. Alaska announced it’s planning more than a dozen international direct routes from Seattle by 2030. Unfortunately, travelers will have to wait to find out where, with the announcement promising “at least 12 nonstop global destinations with long-haul widebody aircraft from our Seattle gateway by 2030, with further specifics on where and when to be revealed later.”
But the international expansion news wasn’t the only new route for the airlines. Alaska announced it’s adding two extra flights per week between Hawaii and Japan, and adding extra flights between the Hawaiian island of Maui and San Diego, CA. San Francisco, CA, is also getting improved connectivity to Hawaii, with four non-stop flights per week from SFO to the Big Island starting on June 12, 2025, and three flights from SFO to Kauaʻi, starting June 13.
Hawaiian Airlines A330 planes. Photo: Hawaiian Airlines
New overnight flights are also being added between Portland, OR, to both O‘ahu and Maui. And a new flight from San Francisco to Honolulu will also be an overnight, making it easier to fall asleep in Hawaii and wake up back on the West Coast. Those new flights are also helpful for East Coast residents, as the schedule will make it easier to reach destinations like Washington, DC, and New York, NY, rather than having to spend an entire day in transit and waiting at airports.
Other remote parts of the US are becoming more accessible, too, with Alaska Airlines announcing it will start using larger aircraft between Seattle and Anchorage, AK in the busy season (summer). It’s also going to use larger planes on flights between Honolulu and Sacramento, CA, as well as Honolulu and Seattle. Each wide-body A330 plane seats 278 people, increasing the capacity on most routes by about 20 to 25 percent.
Photo: Alaska Airlines/
Alaska Airlines acquired Hawaiian Airlines in a highly covered merger in fall of 2024. It was finalized on September 18, with Alaska paying $1.9 billion total. But for now, the two airlines are operating as two separate brands under the Alaska Airlines umbrella, though you can book both airlines via the Alaska Airlines website. In October of 2025, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will likely issue a new business certificate allowing the airlines to do business as one brand. At that point, Hawaiian Airlines will likely be completely absorbed by Alaska Airlines. You can read more about the details of the merger at this link.
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