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How to See All of Palermo’s Highlights on a One-Day Walking Tour

The capital of the Italian island of Sicily isn’t very spread out and is packed with great sights, making it an ideal location for an independent walking tour. For travelers arriving by cruise ship and wanting to make the most of their day, it’s relatively easy to see all the highlights in three or four hours, with enough time for a typically Sicilian snack at one of the city’s historical markets, so don’t bother booking an expensive tour via the cruise line. The cruise ship terminal is very close to the historic center so you can walk everywhere, and even come back to the ship for a quick break — there’s no need for a shuttle or a taxi.

A free walking tour of Palermo to see all the highlights

Unlike walking tour of Rome, where time is of the essence and you can’t afford to linger for too long at each location, in Palermo, you can relax. There’s plenty of time to sit in churches to admire their artful architecture, stop for a glass of juice at the market, and wander around the narrow residential streets, where you’ll notice that the locals’ balconies are all covered in white-and-green-striped curtains to keep the year-round heat out of their homes. This is especially important for cruisers who need to make the all-aboard time if they don’t want to be left behind.

The map and walking tour below offer suggestions made from my personal experience in Palermo; but you can tailor it to your schedule, preferences, budget, and walking abilities.

For the purpose of this walking tour, meant to help those with very little time in Palermo to see as much as possible, which include a lot of cruisers, the starting point is the cruise ship terminal, very close to the center of town. You may, of course, start from any other points on the map and follow the circuit from there.

Teatro Politeama Garibaldi, Teatro Massimo, and Palermo Cathedral

Less than one mile (20 minutes on foot) from the cruise terminal, you’ll walk by the 19th-century Teatro Politeama Garibaldi, a large circular Neoclassical opera house. Home to the Sicilian Symphonic Orchestra, the theatre, with its huge entry arch and colonnades, is as impressive from the outside as it is inside, but getting in very straightforward. I accidentally sneaked in for a few minutes as people were entering the hall for a performance — nobody asked me for a ticket — but your best bet is to ask people at reception if you can take a walk around.

From the Garibaldi Theatre to Teatro Massimo, the largest opera house in Italy and the third largest in Europe (after Paris’ Palais Garnier and Vienna’s K. K. Hof-Opernhaus), is only a 12-minute walk. You can admire the huge 19th-century edifice from the outside or take a guided tour for $12.70 (€12). Teatro Massimo is open daily from 9:30 AM to 7 PM.

On the rooftop of the Palermo Cathedral. Photo: ecstk22/Shutterstock

Half a mile from Teatro Massimo is the mixed-style Palermo Cathedral which dates back from the 12th century. It’s free to enter to see the main part of the cathedral but you have to pay $7.40 (€7) to climb the narrow staircase to the roofs. It’s very much worth it for the spectacular views of the city you get from up there.

Porta Nova and the Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo

On your way to the Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo, you’ll go through Porta Nova, a 17th-century ornate stone gate that will lead you to the western part of the city. Take a few minutes to admire both sides of the gate which as built as triumphal arch.

Terrifying mummified remains at the Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo. Photo: MarcelClemens/Shutterstock

from Porta Nova to the Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo is 20-minute walk on busy streets with narrow, bumpy, or non-existent sidewalks. While it’s not a pleasant stroll, it’s worth it if you’re a fan of macabre tourist sites. If not, skip it altogether and move on to the next sight. The Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo, home to the largest collections of mummies in the world, consists of dark underground tunnels filled with hundreds of mummified bodies that date back a few centuries, including that of infants and children. The site is open from 9 AM to 12:30 PM and from 3 PM and 5:30 PM, so don’t plan to visit during lunch or in the early afternoon. Admission is $5.30 (€5).

Norman Palace Complex (Palatine Chapel) and Mercato di Ballarò

The journey back from the Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo to the historic city center involves the same awful 20-minute itinerary and another walk under Porta Nova, but it’s the easiest and most straight forward way.

Inside Palermo’s Palatine Chapel. Photo: faber1893/Shutterstock

The Norman Palace Complex (AKA the Royal Palace) is one of many beautiful palaces in Palermo, but it’s certainly the most worthwhile. Home to the Sicilian Regional Parliament, it can be visited for $12.70 (€12). The most striking part of the complex is the extraordinary 12th-century Palatine Chapel, covered in golden mosaics, and located on the first floor of the Norman Palace. If you visit only one sacred Christian site in Palermo, which you shouldn’t considering the treasures on display, make it this one.

After visiting the Palatine Chapel, walk for 10 minutes to reach Mercato di Ballarò, the oldest and largest market in the city, to see what meat, fish, fruit, and vegetables the locals eat, and to grab a snack of your own. Arancini and cannoli, both Sicilian specialties, are always a good idea, especially when washed down with a glass of freshly pressed pomegranate juice.

Chiesa del Gesù di Casa Professa and chiesa di Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio

Visiting three churches back to back might feel like a lot, but all are so incredible and cheap to access that you’d be remiss to pass on them during your short stay in Palermo.

Inside the magnificent Chiesa del Gesù di Casa Professa. Photo: jackbolla/Shutterstock

Three minutes on foot from the market, Chiesa del Gesù di Casa Professa, also known as the church of Gesù, is one of the most breathtaking churches you’ll ever see anywhere, and it costs only $2.10 (€2) to access it. The walls of this 17th-century church are covered in intricate multicolored marble inlay and there are dizzying marble carvings everywhere you look. The church isn’t large so it’s a quick visit, but sitting in one of the pews is a good way to take it all in.

Four minutes away from the church of Gesù is the huge Chiesa di Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio (Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio or Martorana). Part of the UNESCO Heritage Site known as “Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale” along with the Palermo cathedral and the Norman Palace Complex & Palatine Chapel, the Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio dates back from the 12th century. The interior is vast with tall, vaulted ceilings, and covered in gold mosaics and colorful paintings. It costs $2.10 (€2) to enter.

Quattro Conti, La Vucciria, and Mercato Antico

On your way back to the cruise ship terminal, there are three sights you shouldn’t miss, all of which are free.

Quattro Conti, just two minutes away from the Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio, refers to the four ornate Baroque corners of Piazza Vigliena, considered the very heart of the historic center. Each corner represents one of the four seasons with different sculptures and fountains.

La Vucciria market in Palermo. Photo: Fotokon/Shutterstock

Five minutes away from Quattro Conti is La Vucciria, an old lively market where you’ll see locals shopping for vegetables, fruit, fish, and meat. And six minutes further is Mercato Antico, where you’ll find all sort of old-fashioned knick-knacks alongside paintings, beautiful hand-painted tiles, books, furniture, books, and more. It’s a great place to get a small vintage souvenir from your time in Palermo.

The cruise ship terminal is 19 minutes away on foot from Mercato Antico so don’t purchase any heavy antics or you’ll have to haul them a little ways.

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Rivian Opens Second Installment of Its ‘charging Station of the Future.’ See Inside.

Electric vehicle maker Rivian opened its second Outpost last week, this one less than a mile from the Joshua Tree National Park Visitor Center. Representing what it believes will be the future of public EV charging and convenience stores, the Joshua Tree Charging Outpost is the first Rivian charging center to allow charging of all electric vehicles, not just Rivians. Notably, the charging stations at the Outpost are powered by 100 percent renewable energy, allowing travelers to explore the nearby national park and get back to Los Angeles or wherever they’re headed with zero carbon emissions.

Inside the Outpost. Photo courtesy Rivian

Similar to its charging hub in Groveland, near Yosemite, the Joshua Tree Outpost features lounge space, snacks and retail, and restrooms. Customers can charge and access restroom facilities 24 hours per day. There’s a play area for kiddos and the place is about as Instragrammable as a convenience store could ever be. The news came just as the company announced it would open its charging network to all EV drivers, following a similar move made recently by Tesla.

“Since the beginning, we’ve understood that creating great products like the R1T and R1S only made up half the equation,” said Rivian Founder and CEO RJ Scaringe in a press release. “To achieve widespread electrification, you also need a really good charging network. Now, we’re excited to bring the Rivian Adventure Network–with its ease of use and exceptional reliability–to other EV drivers around North America, investing in a future where charging on the road will be simple, sustainable, and convenient.”

Plenty of space to post up on the laptop, with views to boot. Photo courtesy Rivian

The company’s goal is to build strategically-located Outposts to encourage travelers to drive electric on outdoors-focused adventures. Rivian installed rapid charging units that deliver up to 900 volts and feature CCS connectors with support for North American Charging Standard (NACS)-equipped vehicles with an automaker-approved adapter – in short, no matter what EV you drive, you’ll be able to plug in. Support for native NACS connectors, also known as SAE J3400, will come with a future hardware update. Each charger features tap-to-pay features taht are easily accessed particularly by Rivian drivers and app users.

Expect to see more Rivian Charging Outposts near national parks and other outdoor-centric destinations in the near future. The company expects these shops to be a big part of its business model going forward, helping it target the outdoor adventurers that are already attracted to its rugged, four-wheel-drive electric vehicles. Going full-circle, the Outposts represent the future of road trip travel, where travelers can post up in a comfortable, cafe-like setting while charging that’s complete with Wi-Fi and gourmet food and drinks, allowing them to get work done, plan their adventures, and have a meeting place that’s far more productive and efficient than standard gas stations or truck stops.

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Wellness Is a Journey You Design Yourself at This Bespoke Tulum Resort

Sitting alone after exiting the temezcal (sweat lodge ceremony) — overwhelmed by emotions — I watched the hot lava stones crackle beneath the fiery wood. The temezcalera’s chants and drumbeats floated softly through the thin veil between the temezcal hut and where I sat as the salt from tears and sweat clung to my face. At that moment, a single dragonfly flitted past.

Later, I learned that the dragonfly symbolizes change, rebirth, honoring your emotions, self-realization, and good fortune — powerful themes that echoed the transformative journey that’s been unfolding for me in life recently, emphasized during my recent stay at Nômade Tulum in Quintana Roo, Mexico.

This delicate balance between transformation and self-compassion lies at the heart of Nômade Tulum’s philosophy. Its intentionally curated team of healers fosters a space where every guest feels seen, supported, and held, encouraging exploration of the soul’s depths while honoring personal limits.

At this special wellness resort in the heart of the Tulum beach town, the team invites you to push your boundaries but always with a gentle reminder to respect them — a balance that leaves space for profound growth without losing sight of where you are in the process.

Designing your journey at Nômade Tulum

Photo: Sara Iannacone

Before arriving at Nômade Tulum, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I’d heard whispers about its Journey Designers, but the term still felt mysterious. After spending time with a few throughout my stay, I realized they’re not even comparable to your average concierge; these guides act as intuitive curators of each guest’s stay, crafting personalized journeys far beyond traditional resort offerings.

They didn’t limit our conversations to yoga classes or the best dishes at Macondo Restaurant. Instead, they asked meaningful questions about where I was in life, what I hoped to uncover, and how my experiences had shaped me. Their intuitive questions and thoughtful suggestions made me feel seen in a way I wasn’t expecting.

When you book a stay, a Journey Designer contacts you before arrival to create a tentative itinerary tailored to your desires. I say tentative because, as Pablo Porta, Nômade Tulum’s Head Journey Designer, explained to me, he encourages guests to adjust their schedules during their stay. “I love when people start canceling or adding activities,” he shared. “It shows they’re tuning into their true needs and desires. That’s the whole point.”

This sentiment underscores the property’s ethos: autonomy and flexibility.

Guests have the freedom to fully engage in deep healing work or relax and soak up the sun and sand — there’s no wrong way to experience Nômade Tulum.

Healing at Nômade Tulum

Photo: Nômade Tulum

Every stay at Nômade Tulum includes access to a thoughtfully curated selection of healing workshops and classes. The weekly calendar features everything from Kundalini yoga and meditation to breathwork and stargazing at the firepit. Many of these offerings, including movement classes, are complimentary, while more specialized experiences can be booked for an additional fee. Some of the most popular experiences I tried during my stay included:

Temezcal ceremony: A temezcal is a Maya sweat lodge ritual that purifies the body and clears the mind. Transparently, this experience was a bit too intense for me at this point in my healing journey. But the rest of the group absolutely loved it. So, if you feel called to it, at least try it. You can always leave whenever you want, and the temezcalera was very supportive and understanding.

Cacao ceremony: Held in the hotel’s Gratitude Tent, where much of the programming takes place, this sacred ceremony brings guests together through music, song, and storytelling, celebrating cacao’s connection to Mother Earth and its heart-opening properties. The experience culminates in drinking ceremonial-grade cacao as a group, fostering a sense of unity and reflection among strangers. Having never tried a cacao ceremony before, I can’t say how traditional it was, but it was a genuinely enjoyable and memorable experience.

Photo: Sara Iannacone

Human design reading: In my group session, we dove into the five aura types and profiles, exploring how they shape how we show up in the world. It was wild how accurate it all felt — everyone was nodding along in awe. The hotel also offers private readings and can even tweak your itinerary to match your design, which adds an even more personal touch to the experience.

Sound bath: One of the most profound experiences during my stay was the sound bath session held in the Gratitude Tent. Lying on a mat beneath the soft glow of candlelight, I felt waves of sound from crystal bowls, chimes, and gongs wash over me, each note resonating deeply through my body. The vibrations were both grounding and overwhelming at times, stirring subtle twitches that felt like my body letting go of hidden trauma. By the end, an essential oil head massage brought it all together, leaving me restored, reset, and profoundly at peace.

Yäan healing sanctuary: Shared with its sister property, Be Tulum, the Yäan Healing Sanctuary is a spa where ancient wisdom meets modern wellness. For my treatment, I chose the Sobada Maya Massage. This traditional form of massage combines deep, targeted bodywork and abdominal techniques to realign energy and organs, enhanced by the cleansing properties of freshly picked native herbs and sacred copal. With just a few precise strokes, the practitioner uncovered truths about my chronic fatigue and health issues I’d been battling for over a year. She was able to leave me with advice to continue my treatment at home. As someone who has recently delved into energy work, this experience reaffirmed why traditional healing methods like Sobada Maya hold such profound power.

Other experiences include private breathwork sessions, water therapies, Mayan astrology and soul reading sessions, Reiki, tarot readings, calligraphy lessons, and so much more. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re seeking profound spiritual growth or you’re simply curious about new experiences.

Resting at Nômade Tulum

Photo: Nômade Tulum

During my stay, I was in awe of how seamlessly the property blends into its natural surroundings — and the guest rooms were no exception. The 99 rooms are nestled in a jungle labyrinth, perched in the treetops, or steps from the Caribbean Sea, drawing inspiration from nature, Tulum’s bohemian charm, and Moroccan nomadic culture.

Depending on the season, bungalows start at around $440 per night, treehouses at $560, and premier suites with private pools around $1,200, making the property accessible to a range of budgets.

I stayed in an Aire Suite, a second-floor retreat tucked among palm trees and open sky. My back door led to a private plunge pool and deck, a tranquil spot perfect for unwinding after intense healing conversations or workshops. Although it rained frequently during my stay, taking a dip in the rain became an unexpected favorite — a calming, almost meditative ritual that made the experience even more memorable.

Indulging at Nômade Tulum

Photo: Sara Iannacone

Truthfully, after staying in tens of hotels in Mexico, you never know what to expect from the restaurants. But Nômade Tulum’s three on-site restaurants didn’t disappoint.

Each morning at Macondo, Nômade Tulum’s open-air breakfast spot, began with fresh fruit, a bread basket, and house-made guava jam. The chia pudding quickly became my go-to while the other women I traveled with raved about the açaí bowls with fresh coconut cream.

Lunch is on the sand at La Popular, the beachfront eatery steps from the azure Caribbean waters. My favorite dishes were the salmon tartar with passionfruit and guajillo sauce, pistachio, and garlic; the portabella and burrata salad with arugula, lemon, and sundried tomatoes; and, of course, the steak tacos. Since all the seating is outside, it does close for weather. But when that happens, the same menu is served inside at Macondo for the best of both worlds.

Photo: Sara Iannacone

And then there’s Kuu, what I’d call the wildcard of the property. This Japanese omakase spot might be the last thing you’d expect at a Mexican retreat, but it delivered some of the best sushi I’ve ever had. I don’t typically go for sashimi, especially before a day of flying. Still, I decided to give it a shot, and every bite was a revelation — impeccably fresh and beautifully crafted. One important thing to note is that if you have a vegetarian or pescatarian in your group, make a reservation in advance and note the dietary restrictions because the chef has to prep for this in advance and can’t do it on the fly.

The hotel’s sister property, Be Tulum, is just steps away and has a rooftop terrace perfect for sunset cocktails or mocktails.

Getting to Nômade Tulum

Photo: Sara Iannacone

Whether you’re seeking a profound spiritual awakening or a tranquil weekend on a perfect white sand beach, Nômade Tulum has never been easier to reach. The new Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport (TQO), located just outside of Tulum, places this beachfront wellness haven within a scenic 40-minute drive through lush jungle and rustic roads.

While its prime location along the main strip of the Tulum beach town makes exploring on foot effortless, you might find it hard to leave. Instead, let yourself sink into the magic of Nômade Tulum — barefoot, unhurried, and fully immersed in the experiences that invite you to lose yourself while rediscovering who you truly are.

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Art Basel Miami Beach Isn’t Really About Art: Secrets of An Art Basel Socialite

Every year during the first full week of December, about 80,000 visitors flock to Art Basel Miami Beach to experience the famous art fair. Both residents and visitors alike look forward to this annual event, when jumbo tents are built seemingly overnight (flooring included!) on the sands of South Beach to house art collections for a mere handful of days, and the social circuit runs enough parties to make a 15-block Uber ride turn into an hour-long nightmare.

As a Miami local who’s been here for five years, I now have developed a sixth sense for when Art Basel is in the air. A sudden influx of well-groomed Europeans appear, followed by the artsy, eccentric crowd from metropolises like New York City. It becomes an eerie sight: art dealers anxiously glued to their phones, making their way through swarms of urban hipsters strolling the beach boardwalk as palm trees sway in the tropical breeze background. For just under a week, Miami Beach co-opts an alternative identity where people watching becomes a sport. That, ultimately, is the most captivating exhibit of this art fair.

@brutamerica This ATM at #ArtBaselMiamiBeach ranks the account balance of each person who uses it. #mschf #artbasel #art #arttok #fyp ♬ original sound – Brut.

There’s a whimsical nature to Art Basel that never ceases to amaze me. Despite the myriad of pieces unaffordable to the masses, the vast majority of this yearly occasion has nothing to do with art. Yes, there’s a sudden surge of local art galleries to visit, and there are always a few pieces that go viral on social media, like 2022’s ATM bank account leaderboard, but most of the hype revolves around the hoopla for the event itself. Memes begin to circulate leading up to the event, often revealing the disconnect between its showcased art and its visitors — many who attend don’t even know how to pronounce “Basel” correctly, named after the event’s Swiss city of origin.

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Social hot spots like Soho Beach House also build their own private tents on the beach, only for members of the club (and their plus ones) to enter. Despite Soho’s tent going up like clockwork each year purely for Art Basel, there is no art to be seen inside. Instead, what’s on display is a multitude of bars offering curated cocktails (presumably backed by liquor sponsors). A few years back, a Porsche was conveniently parked on the sand right by the tent, for guests to take selfies with.

Luxury hotels all give it their own spin. Last year, I attended an RSVP-only art viewing at 1 Hotel and spotted a B-list Bravo reality TV star taking selfies with the art on display. I looked around in horror as I noticed it wasn’t just her. Others were also taking selfies with the art, as if this was a middle school trip to MoMA and not an exclusive event theoretically for high-end art buyers.

It finally dawned on me that the point of Art Basel is not to sell art, but to sell the idea of exclusivity. The fair strategically mentions its inaugural day each year is only for press and VIP: You’re either invited, or you need to pay up to show up.

Other than the main collections like Untitled Art, Scope and the Art Basel show at the Miami Beach Convention Center, which are accessible to the public for $30 to $100 a ticket and in walkable distance within the iconic South Beach neighborhood, a significant portion of parties and after parties are invite-only. This concocts a FOMO formula to Art Basel. Part of the allure is that you may just rub elbows with the elite who’s-who in town. You may accidentally photo bomb an influencer with millions of followers, or spot at least one family member of the Kardashian clan.

Photo: Art_Gants/Shutterstock

But how many visitors are actually buying art? According to The Art Basel and UBS Survey of Global Collecting, 58 percent of global art purchases in 2023 by “high net worth collectors” took place at an art fair, a decrease from 74 percent in 2022. This indicates that events like Art Basel absolutely have transactional power among the 1 percent, but what about the other 99 percent of attendees? It would seem they’re filling the pockets instead of sponsors who cash out on the occasion: liquor brands, luxury brands, and, of course, the Miami hotels that capitalize on the opportunity to strategically to fill up rooms between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Art Basel as a phenomenon ends up ironically mimicking its own art. It isn’t hard to stroll through displays feeling the vast majority are filled with unimpressive, overhyped, and inconsequential pieces that could be crafted by a toddler with a blindfold on. But then there’s that 1 percent of art that stops you in your tracks. Last year, this happened to me when I spotted Max Zorn’s pieces at Scope. This Dutch artist got his start creating tape art (no paint involved) on Amsterdam street lamps in 2011.

Flash forward to over a decade later, and his work now adorns the homes of contemporary art lovers. He travels to Art Basel Miami Beach every year to feature his latest collection, which always ends up selling out to new fans and patrons he gathers. I was mesmerized by his glowing pieces, often made of empty wine crates and discarded cigar boxes. I inquired about pricing and discovered the piece I liked cost $1,600. I had never owned a piece of art worth more than $30 at your local mall’s Home Goods or Hobby Lobby before, but it’s not like $1,600 would empty my savings account either. I marveled at the fact that I was all of a sudden seriously considering buying a piece at an art show. Was I on my way to becoming one of those “high net worth collectors” Art Basel reported on? Was the K in my name a sign all along that I was meant to keep company with the Kardashians?

On the one hand, it seemed like a reckless personal purchase to make, especially for someone renting a one-bedroom apartment. On the other hand, I could vaguely hear the echo of a PBS Antiques Roadshow correspondent informing viewers that “art is an investment!” I was comforted by a vision of myself, 50 years from now, proudly showing it off to the grandkids: “he started as a street artist, just like Banksy!”

Photo: Keven Gungor

I ended up buying that piece, which warms up my living room every evening with its amber glow. As I’m writing this, Art Basel week in Miami has just begun again. A few days ago, I received emails from two separate artist reps (one of them from Max Zorn’s team), both asking if I needed a ticket to attend this year. My endorphins shot through the roof — had my one-time purchase secured life-long access to Art Basel high society? Little did they know that I had already bought my ticket. Despite the absurdity that Art Basel can be, it managed to convert me from skeptic to customer. Art Basel tried to sell me on the magnetic pull of FOMO, and it worked.

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How Much Are You Willing to Pay for ‘green’ Accommodations? Hotels May Now Have the Answer

Gauging the preferences of all who travel is a tall task, but in recent years one trend has emerged as a growing priority for travelers – sustainability. Some 75 percent say they intend to consider the impact of their travel decisions in the next year, and one of the primary ways they’re considering that impact is through where they stay. According to a new report from SiteMinder, 37 percent of travelers are open to paying 37 percent more to stay in certified “green” accommodations. The report also found that 21 percent of travelers would pay up to 25 percent more, while 30 percent wouldn’t pay for any sustainability upcharge.

Globally, it’s clear that eco-friendly accommodation is now taking centre stage, with 70 percent of travellers today willing to pay more for sustainable lodging,” Maria Cricchiola, SiteMinder’s Director of Brand Communications and PR, told Matador via email. In particular, Cricchiola notes, travelers “increasingly prioritize accommodations that demonstrate responsible construction practices and effective waste management.”

Hospitality companies are responding in kind. Dozens of hotel operators worldwide have attained B-Corp certification as a means to certify their efforts toward responsible business practices.

How hotels are responding to consumer sustainability preferences

Graph courtesy of SiteMinder

The Populus concept was born of more than a shot in the dark. Tourism is responsible for about 8 percent of global carbon emissions, according to data from Sustainable Travel International. Issues such as overtourism and wildlife habitat degradation are increasingly covered by travel and mainstream media outlets, and an increasing number of tour operators and travel companies are focused on being part of the solution – promoting conservation, highlighting local businesses – in order to attract business. Booking.com found that 75 percent want more responsible travel options and plan to utilize them going forward.

“In August 2024, we surveyed more than 12,000 travelers in 14 of the world’s largest tourist markets (Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Mexico, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, UK and USA), asking 25 accommodation-specific questions,” Cricchiola says.

The resulting data was compiled into SiteMinder’s report. Notably, input from hotels themselves was not gathered so as to produce data specifically from the travelers spending money, rather than the businesses profiting as a result. The hotels themselves, then, must respond through action. One property doing so is the recently-opened Populus, in Denver’s Golden Triangle neighborhood. The property is the first to claim it’s operations are “carbon-positive,” meaning more carbon is captured from the atmosphere by the hotel’s efforts, or prevented from reaching it in the first place, than the hotel emits. Though many hotels have pursued sustainability accreditation through third-party auditors, Populus is the first to take efforts to such a complete scope, with its own rooftop solar garden, industrial food composter, and tree-planting initiative, among other efforts. The hotel also shuns dedicated parking for cars, instead encouraging travelers to arrive via transit, bike, or other means.

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“We are continuously surprised by our guests’ interest in sustainability, often asking our front desk associates further on the reclaimed wood, sustainable design features, reception desk, and more, immediately upon arrival, further emphasizing that sustainability continues to grow as a demand for consumers, including the travel industry,” Thomas Hudson, Environmental Experience Manager at Populus, told Matador.

Hudson notes that despite this, the customers the hotel has attracted since its October launch choose the hotel specifically for its green credentials.

“[O]ur developer Urban Villages continues to see the demand from consumers seeking more sustainable options when traveling, which furthered their passion to build one of the most sustainable buildings in the country,” Hudson says.

Populus hotel and its onsite green initiatives. Graphic courtesy Studio Gang

This fits well with the SiteMinder report. This data, then, notes that the hotel industry, particularly boutiques and more upscale properties, are homing in on how much more they can charge to support their green efforts. Certainly, the positive marketing and reputational boost gained through broadcasting a sustainability ethos is part of the plan – but Populus is proof that it’s possible to get much deeper than greenwashing.

“According to Deloitte, demand for green products is growing fast with over half of US consumers already changing their behaviors to help address climate change, and 34% paying more for sustainable products. We are seeing this firsthand through both our room bookings and our restaurants. With Pasque and Stellar Jay offering sustainable, nature-based dining, including locally sourced meats and produce, visitors to the restaurants are willing to spend the extra dollars to know that not only is their food coming from a responsibly sourced farm, but their food waste is also being turned into compost to be shared with local farmers.”

The SiteMinder data combined with the rise in demand for “responsible travel” suggests that hotel operators can successfully charge 10 to 25 percent more for a room if they’ve met consumer sustainability demands. When booking travel in 2025 and beyond, expect to see more properties with similar efforts – and be prepared to pay for it.

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The Official Hometown of Santa Claus Hasn’t Gotten Enough Snow, Cancelling Family Vacations

Early morning last week, Glasgow Airport, Scotland, was filled with families in matching ugly sweaters and fluffy red and white hats en route to snowy destinations for a winter vacation. Lapland, Finland, ​​just above the Arctic Circle, is one of the most popular packaged vacations for families at this time of year. It’s the kind of trip parents do once and often have to save up for — it’s by no means cheap. For the kids, it’s a chance to visit the home of Santa Claus, tour the elf’s workshop, feed the reindeer, and hand deliver their Christmas wishlist in person to the big man. Sadly, many will be disappointed this year as a major holiday provider has canceled Christmas in Kuusamo in Finnish Lapland due to a lack of a pretty important element — snow.

This year, the region that typically transforms into a snowy paradise is experiencing unseasonably warm temperatures, leaving its once-frozen landscape bare. As a result, travel companies like German vacation provider TUI have been forced to cancel trips to Lapland, leaving many devastated children in the wake.

Photo: Roman Babakin/Shutterstock

Lapland’s outdoor activities mostly revolve around snow. Husky sled rides, scooting off on a Ski-doo, sleeping in an igloo, crisp reindeer safaris, and a visit to Santa Claus Village lose their charm when you’re trudging through rain and mud.

Experts point out that climate change has led to warmer temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns, making it increasingly difficult for Lapland to maintain its snowy reputation. This year, the region experienced its warmest summer on record, and the mild conditions have persisted into the winter months. As a result, the snow that typically blankets the landscape has been scarce, leaving behind a stark and barren scene. Usually, the region would see around 20-30cm of snow on the ground last month, but there were only isolated thin patches.

TUI’s decision to cancel trips to Lapland directly results from these changing conditions. The company recognized that many of the activities that make Lapland so special would be impossible to offer without snow. I’d hire a snow machine before letting down children at Christmas, but the company remarks it was necessary to ensure guests could have a truly magical experience.

For travelers whose trips were canceled, TUI has offered several options. The first is to reschedule the trip to a future date, including the following winter season, at no additional cost. Families have also been given the option to rebook a different holiday with a 10 percent discount or receive a full refund.

The impact of climate change on Lapland extends beyond the tourism industry. Indigenous communities that rely on the region’s natural resources, such as reindeer herders, face challenges. The lack of snow makes it difficult for reindeer to find food, as they rely on lichen buried beneath the snow. As temperatures rise and weather patterns become more unpredictable, the future of Lapland’s winter wonderland is uncertain.

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The Two Suprising Items Recently Banned on Cruise Ships

Cruises can be inexpensive vacations if you plan them correctly. Inside cabins are usually affordable, third-party shore excursions can help you save money, and cruise lines often run deals that include perks like free drink packages and included staff gratuities.

But one thing that remains pricey on almost all cruise ships is buying on-board Wi-Fi. You almost always have to pay for each separate device, and many cruise lines charge by the amount of data you use, which can get extremely expensive if you’re trying to work while traveling. But cruise ship travelers are no stranger to travel hacks, and savvy cruisers know that bringing one unique tech device can help them save lots of money on Wi-Fi.

Photo: Casezy idea/Shutterstock

Unfortunately, that device to hack cruise ship Wi-Fi was just banned by Royal Caribbean. The company announced that it’s banned Wi-Fi routers on cruises. Wi-Fi routers are devices used to split internet access, so you can connect multiple devices to one internet connection. Essentially, they allowed cruisers to buy cruise internet access for just one device, then connect multiple devices to via the Wi-Fi router.

The news was announced by Royal Caribbean blog, as the company itself added routers to the list of banned items without any fanfare. It’s listed under a category called “Cybersecurity and deliberate electronic crime,” along with items like satellite dishes, indicating the company is positioning the ban as a security concern. Routers can sometimes be easier to connect to without permission (i.e. “hack,”) and may also slow the connection speed for other users.

That said, Wi-Fi is a huge moneymaker for the company, and with 68 percent of people reporting that they work on vacation, it’s likely the company is also trying to sell more Wi-Fi packages. Right now, Wi-Fi on board Royal Caribbean ships varies, but will usually cost at least $15 per day, per device, going up to $25 or more per device, per day for high-speed packages that allow streaming.

Cruise Wi-Fi routers aren’t the only newly banned item

Photo: Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock

Not being able to hack cruise Wi-Fi to save money may be a bit of a disappointment, but there’s another item a different cruise line banned that may make being at sea far more relaxing: bluetooth speakers. They were banned in late November 2024 by Carnival Cruise Lines, which said the ban was for the enjoyment of fellow cruisers. It means you won’t have to hear music blasting from your neighbor’s cabins late into the night, nor will you be bothered if the person on the lounge chair behind you at the pool forgot their headphones.

A Carnival representative told media outlets that any speakers brought on board would be collected and returned at the end of the cruise, which would likely even include devices like white noise machines. (So if use one, consider downloading a white noise app on your phone before you embark). The ban applies to any speakers purchased during shore visits or at the on-board gift shop, so you won’t be able to skirt the ban by buying one in port. Considering 83 percent of people said in 2024 they’re annoyed by having to hear phone noise from people who don’t use headphones in public, it’s probably a welcome addition to the cruise line’s list of banned items.

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The 2024 Matador Network Travel Awards

The 2024 Matador Network Travel Awards#wedge-0 { background-image: url('https://cdn1.matadornetwork.com/blogs...') }@media(min-width:560px){ #wedge-0 { background-image: url('https://cdn1.matadornetwork.com/blogs...') } }@media(min-width:1200px){ #wedge-0 { background-image: url('https://cdn1.matadornetwork.com/blogs...') } }

Every year, the Matador Network team and our trusted writers travel to hundreds of small towns, big cities, and remote locales around the world. We reported stories and travel guides from every continent in 2024. The year brought us to Jamaica with our families, the Rockies for high-altitude breathwork training, and Norway for a food-focused road trip, to name a few.

Our editors traveled to Wyoming to investigate the booming state of wolf tourism as the 30th anniversary of Yellowstone’s wolf reintroduction program approaches, and to Washington, DC to learn how outdoor organizations use donations to advocate for climate change.

How we traveled led to many stories as well, from long European train rides to a journey on “The Greatest Foodie Destination at Sea.” We stayed in more than a few hotels along the way that are new favorites.

All of this travel makes narrowing down the winners of the Matador Network Travel Awards is an annual challenge, to say the least. Nominations are gathered from across the Matador Network team in five categories: Sustainable Destination, Adventure Destination, Wellness Destination, Next Big Destination, and Best Airline. Each nomination is graded on a point-based system. This year, we also posed the question to our readers in the same categories. Votes on a poll sent to our 300,000 newsletter subscribers and 600,000-plus Instagram followers were tallied through November, and the results speak to just how well Matador readers have their finger on the pulse of travel.

Next year will bring even more adventures. These award winners are a dream list of where to go on your next trip.

Award WinnersPhoto: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman

Sustainable Destination

Care for the environment, the culture, and yourself.

Visit





Sustainable Destination

An ethos of giving back runs through these islands, where volunteering may just be the best part of your trip.

Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)/Heather Goodman

And the winner is…


Adventure Destination

Four-season fun with boundless access to the outdoors.

Visit





Adventure Destination

Mountain biking, fishing, kayaking, trail running, and hiking in the warmer months. Backcountry skiing and snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in the winter. There's no shortage of reasons to get outside here -- and no shortage of lively bars and restaurants to recoup in afterward.

Photo: Andrew Bertino/Shutterstock

And the winner is…


Wellness Destination

Wellness with a sustainable mindset.

Visit





Wellness Destination

On the beach of one of the most sustainable countries in the world, it's equally easy to immerse in nature here as it is to find a world-class yoga or meditation studio.

Photo: Stock Photos 2000/Shutterstock

And the winner is…


Next Big Destination

A country with a rapidly changing reputation.

Visit





Next Big Destination

Just a decade ago, travel to this country was not advised. Today, it's one of the safest in the Western Hemisphere and one of the fastest growing travel destinations.

Photo: Elena Berd/Shutterstock

And the winner is…


Best Airline

An expansive list of routes worldwide, plus constant in-flight improvements.

Visit





Best Airline

Not only does this airline fly to more places than any other based in the United States, it's also committed to making the flying experience more comfortable with an award-winner app, in-air connectivity, and sustainability initiatives.

Photo: United Airlines 

And the winner is…
Readers’ Choice Award WinnersPhoto: Elena Berd/Shutterstock

Readers' Choice: Sustainable Destination

A Scandinavian capital with an award-winning dedication to sustainability.

Visit





Readers' Choice: Sustainable Destination

The need for sustainable travel is not new. In the current climate, however, there is perhaps no more important time to focus your travel on places that are actively working to improve the environment. This city aims to be carbon neutral by 2030.

Photo: f11photo/Shutterstock

And the winner is…


Readers' Choice: Adventure Destination

Guaranteed animal sightings every hike.

Visit





Readers' Choice: Adventure Destination

On this remote Pacific archipelago,  one of the best ways to see as much wildlife as possible is to get active: walking, hiking, kayaking, SUPing, snorkeling, diving, swimming, and more.

Photo: Jesse Adams

And the winner is…


Readers' Choice: Wellness Destination

Wellness opportunities for mind and body abound.

Visit





Readers' Choice: Wellness Destination

Healing — whether through spiritual practices, traditional treatments, food, or simply being in nature — is woven into the fabric of daily life here.

Photo: PhotoSunnyDays/Shutterstock

And the winner is…


Readers' Choice: Next Big Destination

Polar bears, the northern lights, and more await.

Visit





Readers' Choice: Next Big Destination

While many places around the world are experiencing overtourism, this island is welcoming more people in with flights from the United States coming in 2025.

Photo: Mathias Berlin/Shutterstock

And the winner is…


Readers' Choice: Best Airline

Where even economy is more comfortable.

Visit





Readers' Choice: Best Airline

Whether you're paying for a basic fare or shelling out for a lay-flat seat in first class, it's hard to beat the flight experience on this airline.

Photo: Emirates

And the winner is…
CREDITSEditorial lead

Nickolaus Hines

Contributors

Katie Scott Aiton, Morgane Croissant, Suzie Dundas, Nickolaus Hines, Tim Wenger

New US Rules Could Compensate Travelers in Cash for Airline Delays

The US Department of Transportation (DOT) under Secretary Pete Buttigieg already created new regulations to ensure passengers get refunds for cancelled flights, announcing in October that anyone whose flight gets cancelled or significantly delayed must get an automatic refund if they decide not to travel because of the change. But a new additional proposal could mean that passengers are entitled to monetary compensation for flight disruptions, not just refunds. But if you feel strongly that that’s the right thing to do, you’ll have to weigh in soon.

On December 5, 2024, the DOT announced that the public has 60 days to weigh in on a new proposal that would require airlines to compensate passengers with direct cash payments for significant delays. Airlines would also need to provide services like free immediate rebooking, compensate for lost luggage, and cover the costs of meals, transportation, lodging, and other expenses incurred due to the delay or cancellation. Right now, most airlines provide lodging and meal vouchers if the delay is caused by something in the airline’s control — which means you may be stuck sleeping on the airline floor if your delay is due to weather. But those comps are voluntary by the airlines, and not uniformly enforced.

Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized that such measures would shift the economic incentives and motivate airlines to minimize delays and cancellations when possible. Currently, there is no federal requirement for compensating customers for delays. The rule would bring the level of consumer protection for US flyers more in line with regions in places like the EU, where similar compensations are standard practice.

 

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Under the proposed framework, compensation would be tiered based on the length of the delay: $200 to $300 for delays of less than six hours, $375 to $525 for delays of six to nine hours, and $750 to $775 for delays of nine hours or more. The proposed rule would also require airlines to cover expenses incurred during delays, like meals and hotels. Finally, it would mandate that airlines must book passengers on the soonest possible replacement flight, potentially even on competing carriers, if necessary. (But remember that you may be entitled to much more than that if your’e involuntarily bumped from a flight.)

Airline industry trade group Airlines for America, whose members include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, has fought against the proposal, arguing that it would lead to increased operational costs, which would mean raising ticket costs for consumers. However, regions like the European Union, the United Kingdom, and Canada have similar requirements, and the rules are credited with improving service, reliability, and accountability within the aviation industry.

Anyone who wants to weigh in on the issue can do so, though the 60-day comment period will end during the Trump administration. That means the DOT will be led by a Republican secretary chosen by the incoming president. Traditionally, republicans are less likely to support any type of restrictions on capitalism and the free market, so it’s possible nothing will come of the current effort.

The full proposal is available online, and anyone with thoughts on the proposal is advised to weigh in at Regulation.gov, using docket number DOT-OST-2024-0062. Comments are due by February 4, 2025. The news also noted that the DOT is trying to finalize two additional regulations before the new administration takes office. Those regulations would both require that airlines allow families to sit together without charging additional seat assignment fees, and create new rules to make air travel easier for travelers in wheelchairs.

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Matador Network Readers’ Choice Awards 2024: Best Airline

Emirates Airlines, based in Dubai, snagged the Matador Network Readers’ Choice Best Airline pick in 2024. If you’ve never flown it, you may be wondering why, since it’s not the largest network for travelers in the United States (that honor belongs to United Airlines), nor does it participate in StarAlliance or SkyTeam frequent flyer programs. If you’ve flown Emirates before, you’ll likely agree it’s not a surprise the beloved airline came out on top.

When it comes to comparing airlines, much is often said of the airline’s top-tier products. But the average traveler isn’t shelling out for a lay-flat bed – and quality across all classes is one the areas Emirates really shines. On its international flights to or from the US, economy-class flyers get 32 inches of pitch on most flights and 34 inches on some newer flights. That’s more than United, Lufthansa, Turkish, Delta, and many more airlines. When it comes to entertainment, the Emirates system has more than 6,500 movies and TV shows and some of the most reliable WiFi in the sky (for which it’s won multiple awards).

Emirates is also one of a handful of airlines to give Economy passengers an amenity kit on long-haul flights (currently, the airline is partnered with United for Wildlife to create the kits), and even economy class passengers get multicourse meals. In fact, it won “best airline for food and drink” from Food & Wine in 2024. The baggage allowance isn’t too bad, either – customers on the cheapest possible international fares to or from the US get a checked bag up to 50 lbs for free, and most get two.

However, for travelers who can afford an upgraded class, the difference between Emirates and other airlines really becomes evident. Premium economy on Emirates is akin to a high-end first class on domestic US airlines, with luxurious seats, high-end dining, footrests, and a noticeable amount of recline (even if it’s not lie-flat). It’s no wonder the airline’s premium economy has won awards from respected global organizations like Skytrax World Airline Awards and the AirlineRatings.com Airline Excellence Awards, for which it won “best premium economy” in 2024.

If you can fly Emirates business class, just know it’s probably going to be the highlight of your trip no matter where you’re headed, with lay-flat seats, plenty of room to socialize around a central bar, and luxury amenity kits that feel like the gift bag of your dreams from luxury designer Bulgari.

A series of new planes to be introduced in 2025 will have arguably the most comfortable first-class seats in the sky because they’re not just seats: First-class flyers will get completely private cabins, with floor-to-ceiling doors and turn-down service, among other swoon-worthy features and amenities. In case you’re wondering how fancy it is, it includes a chauffeur to drive you to the airport in Dubai and private boarding directly from the airport lounge.

Photo: Emirates

But it wouldn’t be the world’s best airline if it wasn’t affordable, and if you’re comparing economy rates, you’ll likely be surprised at the level of service and comfort you’ll get for a price comparable to lower-rated US airlines. Round-trip direct flights from NYC to Dubai in February 2025 are as low as $842 per person, including all taxes, fees, carry-on and checked luggage, and seat selection. Safety-wise, it also shines, as it hasn’t had a single incident that resulted in a passenger fatality, even though it’ll be celebrating 40 years of service in 2025.

While Emirates hasn’t announced any new flight routes for 2025, it has announced that it’s upgrading many of its planes, which will allow for more premium economy seats and bluetooth compatibility in Economy class. Interestingly, it also announced that the planes will have six-way adjustable headrests for economy passengers, “eliminat[ing] the need for neck pillows.” It may represent a decline from the “Golden Age of Flying” to say that not having to carry an airplane pillow is considered an upgrade, but if it means being a little more likely to sleep onboard and saving space in our carry-on bag, we’ll take it.

Readers’ Choice Awards methodology

In the 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards, the Matador Network audience voted on their favorite adventure destination, sustainable destination, wellness destination, airline, and what they thought will be the next big destination everyone will travel to. The poll included nominations from the Matador Network team as well as a write-in option. Voting took place through November, and the poll was sent out to our 600,000-plus Instagram followers and 300,000 global newsletter subscribers.