Matador Network's Blog, page 82
January 1, 2025
Places That Changed Us: Portugal
This is part of the “Places That Changed Us” series, a compilation of 20 trips that have had a lasting impact on the Matador Network team. To see the other 19 places, click here.
It was very late at night when my now-wife Caro and I arrived in Lisbon in 2020. It was our first international trip together, and also our first time in Europe. The airport taxi dropped us on a quiet street in the heart of the Chiado neighborhood, right outside the sealed doors of our hotel. After 15 minutes of knocking and dialing the hotel’s number, a sleepy staff member finally appeared, explaining in broken Spanish that the night entrance was just around the corner. Palacio das Especiairas, our home for the night, was an astounding old manor that felt like a palace. We were overflowing with excitement. Even the sight of a giant cockroach during the impromptu late-night tour led by our groggy host couldn’t shake the feeling.
Fortunately, that rough start didn’t set the tone for the rest of our trip. If anything, Portugal seemed to reward us with moments of pure travel luck that became some of our fondest memories. We were upgraded, nearly for free, to a castle tower in the medieval town of Óbidos; stumbled upon what is still one of our favorite restaurants, Bota & Bira, while roaming the streets of Porto; marveled at gigantic waves in Nazaré; and took a wrong tour that led us to the stunning Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra. But luck wasn’t all that defined our adventure. With every tram we took and every variety of cod we tried, I started to realize I’d found my perfect travel partner.
We spent 10 days on our Portugal adventure, visiting Lisbon, Óbidos, Nazaré, Coimbra, Porto, and Sintra. I wouldn’t change a bit of our original itinerary, but if given the chance, I’d spend a few extra days in Porto, a city that embodies everything I came to love about Portugal: its ancient cityscapes and historic landmarks, its vibrant wine and food scene, its walls of intricate tilework, and the warmth of its people.
Looking back, Portugal felt like the beginning of something lasting. Each day revealed places we wanted to share and moments we wanted to savor together. By the end, I knew I could picture us traveling anywhere, embracing each experience as a team. 
Places That Changed Us: New Zealand
This is part of the “Places That Changed Us” series, a compilation of 20 trips that have had a lasting impact on the Matador Network team. To see the other 19 places, click here.
I escaped to New Zealand in 2011, uncertain about what to do with my life. Just weeks after graduating with a master’s degree in environmental biology, I secured a working holiday visa and convinced two of my closest friends to join me on this adventure. We arrived in New Zealand and settled in an old Victorian house in suburban Auckland which, thanks to Couchsurfing and a series of random events, quickly became our home. There, we began searching for jobs to secure our stay in the country for the next year.
Once I was settled, I realized this impulsive adventure was about more than escaping uncertainty, it was about finding myself beyond the expectations of others. Being far from my home in Mexico, my family, and most of my friends, I felt completely free for the first time in my life. That sense of liberation was intoxicating and propelled me into a whirlwind year of opportunity, friendships, learnings, and choices that felt more meaningful than ever.
The setting only heightened these feelings. Everything about New Zealand felt unfamiliar, from the birds chirping outside my window, to the incomprehensible grocery aisles, to the daily commute on the Devonport ferry. After a series of odd jobs, I found myself managing one of the busiest Mexican restaurants in downtown Auckland. There, I found my tribe: a group of Latin American designers, TV producers, social scientists, and recent graduates, all working as dishwashers, waitstaff, and cooks. This became my very own version of New Zealand: a land that looked, smelled, and felt foreign, but was shared with a crew of outcasts discovering themselves amid the locals’ quiet normalcy.
By the time my year was winding down, I embarked on what became my New Zealand epilogue. I bought a car, packed up everything, and set off on a two-month road trip across the South and North Islands. This was where the country’s renowned natural beauty truly struck me. I watched two oceans meet under a spectacular sunset at Cape Reinga, woke to find my tent surrounded by wild horses in the middle of the night, witnessed starlit skies I thought impossible, walked on glaciers, stumbled upon hidden black sand beaches, and even spotted a kiwi bird in the wild.
The rhythm of my New Zealand adventure compelled me to write a journal, trying to capture the rush of experiences shaping my life at the moment. It’s safe to say that this trip kickstarted my writing career. It’s also safe to say that my life would be very different had I not taken this small escapade into the unknown.
Places That Changed Us: Spain
This is part of the “Places That Changed Us” series, a compilation of 20 trips that have had a lasting impact on the Matador Network team. To see the other 19 places, click here.
After my two years in Australia and my solo trip to Japan, I had a new appreciation for good company, and for my mom in particular. With the little money I had, I invited her to travel with me to Spain in 2016, where my grandfather had spent his childhood. It was one of the most fun and meaningful trips I’ve ever taken. It changed the way I see my mom, it changed my mom, and it changed our family narrative.
Mom and I rented a car and took a road trip around Spain — quite literally around. We started at the center in Madrid, went east to Zaragoza and Barcelona, then up north to Basque Country, west to Asturias and Galicia, down to Salamanca, and finally south to Granada and Cordoba. We got lost more times than we can remember, ate our way through the local delicacies, and took thousands of pictures. At first, I was annoyed that mom wanted a picture of everything. Then I realized she takes pictures when she is enjoying herself, and I was eventually incredibly happy with all the images she captured (it is, to this day, my most documented trip).
Though there were many good moments, one was the absolute highlight. I dare to say it was magical. We were trying to find the town and the house where my grandfather grew up in with no reliable directions based on a black and white picture of the house. We had tried several towns, and we were losing our hope. Well, more than that. We were losing our patience with each other. She was driving, we were lost, and I was trying to figure out where we were. I yelled at her to stop. She did. We looked up and there it was, the house from the black and white picture. Speechless, we got out of the car. A man was standing in front of the house, and we asked about my grandfather’s family name. He said, “yes, that is my name” while looking suspicious. He turned out to be my mom’s second cousin. We discovered a lovely family we didn’t know we had, and reconciled with a heritage that now makes us whole.
Places That Changed Us: Kumado Kodo, Japan
This is part of the “Places That Changed Us” series, a compilation of 20 trips that have had a lasting impact on the Matador Network team. To see the other 19 places, click here.
After two life changing years in Melbourne, Australia, working full-time and undertaking a masters degree, and I decided to treat myself in 2015 to one of my dream destinations: Japan. I had very little time to plan the trip. I just knew I would arrive in Tokyo and depart from Osaka, that I had a month there, and I was working with a super limited budget. I was broke after paying for the graduate degree, so I knew fancy sushi and bullet trains were off the list. I had only booked my first Airbnb in Tokyo (a tatami, or floor mat, in a shared room that would have really scared my parents), and made sure I had an internet connection from the moment I landed at the airport. I didn’t speak a word of Japanese, didn’t know how to eat with chopsticks, and wrongly assumed that people there would speak English.
It sounds like a recipe for disaster, but it was one of the best trips of my life that me in ways I was only able to recognize years after.
Looking at it quantitatively, it was a good tour of Japanese cities and nature: Tokyo, Nikko and its hot springs, the Japanese Alps, Kyoto, the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, Hiroshima, and Osaka. Used to backpacking in Argentina, I counted on being able to improvise my trip. Though people didn’t speak my language and I didn’t speak theirs, their response to my approach was obvious when they looked at me funny as I bought bus tickets just ahead of travel, or showed up at the Kumano Kodo tourism office saying I wanted help to find an accommodation for the night.
“You are doing Kumano Kodo and you didn’t book your stays in advance?” the nice woman at the office asked, unsuccessfully trying to calm her voice. She spent the following 20 minutes booking me rooms in traditional houses. I owe her some of the most beautiful nights I’ve ever had. I also felt incredibly safe and looked after by strangers. I was lost most of the time, staring at Google Maps trying to find where I had to go. When I asked people for directions pointing at the map, they walked with me until I found the train, bus, or street I was seeking.
I quickly fell in love with everything Japan has to offer, from the street food perfectly wrapped in gorgeously designed papers and the amazingly detailed crafts, to the thousands of temples shining with fall colors and syncretism, to unique museums like the Tobacco and Salt museum. I also felt incredibly alone for the first time. I was seeing, feeling, and experiencing so much, but I had nobody there with me to comment on it. I spoke with some people I met along the way, but most of the time I was in silence, alone with my own thoughts. Japan changed me, I see it now, in teaching me how to be with myself and enjoy it.
December 31, 2024
12 New Cruise Ships Launching in 2025 You’ll Want to Know About
If you’d like to take a cruise on a brand new ship, there’s never been a better time. Many of the major cruise lines are expecting new ships to debut in 2025 and 2026, all of them fitted with all the bells and whistles of modern cruising, including dozens of restaurants, suites with unbeatable views of the ocean, never-seen-before deck activities, gigantic slides, and more. There will be something for every type of travelers out there, whether you’re looking for a luxurious and timeless experience, or some relaxed and fun times with the family.
World America by MSCStar of the Seas by Royal CaribbeanNorwegian Aqua by Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)Star Princess by Princess CruisesViking Vesta by Viking CruisesDouglas Mawson by Aurora ExpeditionsBrilliant Lady by Virgin VoyagesCelebrity Xcel by Celebrity CruisesDisney Adventure and Disney Destiny by Disney Cruise LineAllura by OceaniaS.S. Elisabeth by UniworldMSC Cruises: World America
Rendering: MSC
World America, currently being built in the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France, will be MSC’s second-largest cruise ship, with MSC World Europa being the largest of the fleet (and the largest ship sailing in the Mediterranean.) However, it will be the largest MSC Cruises ship serving the US market.
What makes it special: This megaship will have 22 decks (all named after ports in the Caribbean Sea) on which you’ll find 19 dining venues, 20 bars and lounges, multiple pools and hot tubs, an 11-deck-high slide in the shape of a shark, a waterpark, and Cliffhanger, the only over-water swing ride at sea. World America will run on LNG, a lower-emission fuel, and is fitted with propellers designed to reduce underwater noise pollution.
Capacity: 6,762 passengers
Maiden voyage: Starting April 12, 2025, World America will sail seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries.
Naming ceremony: April 9, 2025, at MSC Cruises’ cruise terminal in Miami (the largest cruise terminal in the world). The naming ceremony will be followed by a celebratory sailing with an overnight stop at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
Learn MoreRoyal Caribbean: Star of the SeasIn 2024, Royal Caribbean launched its two biggest ships: Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, and Utopia of the Seas, the world’s second-largest cruise ship. In August 2025, Royal Caribbean will launch Stars of the Seas, another record-breaking vessel.
What makes it special: Star of the Seas will provide some of the most thrilling and adrenaline-pumping activities you’ll ever encounter on a cruise ship. It will be home to the largest waterpark at sea, Category 6 Waterpark, where guests will be able to ride six of the tallest, longest, and fastest slides. But that’s not all. There will also be an incredibly high rope course called The Water’s Edge, and a surf simulator called Flowrider. The ship will have the largest ice-skating arena in the entire Royal Caribbean fleet.
Capacity: 5,610 passengers
Maiden voyage: A seven-day round-trip sailing around the Western Caribbean departing from Port Canaveral, Florida, on August 31, 2025.
Learn MoreNorwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Aqua
Rendering: Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Norwegian Cruise Line is launching its latest Prima Class ship, the Norwegian Aqua, in March 2025. There are currently two Prima Class ships in NCL’s fleet, the Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, launched in 2022 and 2023 respectively, and a fourth, the Norwegian Luna, is expected in 2026. The Norwegian Aqua will be the ninetieth ship of the cruise line’s fleet, and will sail to the Caribbean, Bermuda, Northern Europe, the Bahamas, and make transatlantic crossings.
What makes it special: Norwegian Aqua will have the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide, the Aqua Slidecoaster, as well as Glow Court, a new sports complex with an interactive LED floor. Norwegian Aqua will also be the first NCL ship whose hull was designed by a major female hull artist, Allison Hueman.
Capacity: 3,571 guests
Maiden voyage: A seven-day transatlantic crossing from Southampton, England, to Boston, Massachusetts, in March 2025.
Learn MorePrincess Cruises: Star PrincessPrincess Cruises will launch the Star Princess, the sister ship to the Sun Princess which launched in February 2024, in October 2025. The Sun Princess and the Star Princess are very similar ships and are the biggest ships in the cruise line’s fleet. The Star Princess will sail around Europe, the Caribbean, and Alaska, and make transatlantic crossings.
What makes it special: Exactly like the Sun Princess, the Star princess will be 20 percent bigger than any other Princess Cruises ships. It will feature 21 decks, 2150 guest cabins, a three-story dining room, a glass-enclosed dome hosting an indoor/outdoor pool during the day and a stage at night, and the cruise line’s largest casino.
Capacity: 4,300 guests
Maiden voyage: An 11-day round-trip sailing in the Western Mediterranean departing from Barcelona on October 4, 2025.
Learn MoreViking Cruises: Viking VestaView this post on InstagramA post shared by Viking (@vikingcruises)
Viking Vesta will be Viking Cruises’ twelfth ocean ship and will debut in July 2025. Viking Vesta will sail in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Viking Cruises is also scheduled to launch Viking Mira, a very similar ship to Viking Vesta, in 2026.
What makes it special: While all of Viking Cruises’ ocean ships are extremely similar, it’s worth noting that all the rooms on board Viking Vesta will have balconies. The ship will also feature a unique snow grotto where guests can sit in snow for an invigorating wellness experience.
Capacity: 998 passengers
Maiden voyage: A 12-night sailing from Venice to Barcelona, departing July 2, 2025.
Learn MoreAurora Expeditions: Douglas Mawson
The Douglas Mawson, currently under construction. Photo: Aurora Expeditions
In 2025, adventure cruise line Aurora Expeditions will add a third ship to its fleet of small expedition vessels: the Douglas Mawson. The new ship, named after the Australian geologist and explorer, will be able to travel to the most remote corners of the world, including East Antarctica.
What makes it special: The Douglas Mawson will feature a revolutionary inverted bow that will improve the ship’s hydrodynamics and enhance the its fuel consumption. The ULSTEIN X-BOW, as it is know, will also create less noise and vibrations for a quieter sailing, and allow for a much smoother ride. Beyond its technical prowesses, the ship will also feature luxury amenities such as a heated outdoor swimming pool, two hot tubs, a gym, a sauna, two restaurants, and a Citizen Science Centre for the guests who want to combine vacation and education.
Capacity: 154 passengers
Maiden voyage: A 24-day sailing departing from Hobart, Australia, on December 11, 2025, to reach and explore East Antarctica, before ending in Dunedin, New Zealand.
Learn MoreVirgin Voyages: Brilliant Lady
Rendering: Virgin Voyages
Brilliant Lady, which will sail around North America and the Caribbean, will be the fourth ship in the fleet of the adult-only cruise line Virgin Voyages. While it was scheduled to be delivered in 2023, Brilliant lady won’t make its debut before September 2025.
What makes it special: Brilliant Lady will sail brand-new and longer itineraries (up to 14 nights), provide new entertainment and dining experiences, and offer new cabin categories.
Capacity: 2,770 passengers
Maiden voyage: While there are four maiden voyages scheduled for Brilliant lady, the first one of them is a five-day round-tip sailing departing from New York City on September 5, 2025, to Bermuda’s King’s Warf.
Learn MoreCelebrity Cruises: Celebrity XcelCelebrity Xcel, the fifteenth ship in Celebrity Cruises’ fleet, will debut in November 2025 and sail the Caribbean and Mediterranean.
What makes it special: While, so far, very few details have been released about the exciting new experiences to be had on board Celebrity Xcel, we know that the ship will be home to the Magic Carpet, a cantilevered, floating platform that serves as a scenic and thrilling drinking and dining venue.
Capacity: 3,260 passengers
Maiden voyage: A five-night round-trip sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to the Bahamas and Mexico, departing November 18, 2025.
Learn MoreDisney Cruise Line: Disney Adventure and Disney DestinyView this post on InstagramA post shared by Disney Cruise Line (@disneycruiseline)
Disney Cruise Line is not launching one but two ships in 2025: Disney Adventure and Disney Destiny. The cruise line’s fleet currently consists of six ships: Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Wish, and Disney Treasure.
What makes it special: Disney Adventure will be based in Singapore to cater to the Asian market, and will have a Moana-themed poolside area. Disney Destiny will be based in Fort Lauderdale and sail the Caribbean Sea. Disney Destiny will have a heroes and villains theme throughout, and feature two themed restaurants, one centered around The Lion King, and one centered around the Marvel universe. There will also be an Incredible-themed candy shop.
Capacity: Disney Adventure will accommodate up to 6,700 passengers; Disney Destiny will accommodate up to 4,000 passengers.
Maiden voyage: Disney Adventure’s maiden voyage will be five-night round-trip sailing departing from Singapore on December 15, 2025. Disney Destiny’s maiden voyage will depart on November 20, 2025, from Fort Lauderdale to sail to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Disney Castaway Cay in the Bahamas.
Learn MoreOceania Cruises: Allura
Rendering: Oceania Cruises
Currently under construction in Italy, Allura will be ultra-luxury Oceania Cruises’ eighth ship in the current fleet, and the sister ship to Vista, which launched in 2023.
What makes it special: An onboard crêperie, serving freshly made crêpes and waffles in the morning, and gelatos in the afternoon. One chef for every 10 guests and two crew members for every three guests, making for an extraordinary level of service. Five specialty dining venues, including two new complimentary restaurants: Ember and Aquamar Kitchen.
Capacity: 1,200 guests
Maiden voyage: From Trieste to Athens from July 18 to 24, 2025
Learn MoreUniworld: S.S. Elisabeth
Photos: Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
Photos: Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
Photos: Uniworld Boutique River CruisesUniworld Boutique River Cruises is launching two new ships in two years: the S.S. Elisabeth in 2025, and the S.S. Emilie in 2026. With the recent addition of the S.S. Victoria in March 2024, there are 17 ships currently in the Uniworld fleet. Note that the S.S. Elisabeth, like the S.S. Victoria, is not Uniworld-company-owned ship, it is a chartered ship from Seaside Collection. The S.S. Emilie, however, will be owned by Uniworld.
What makes it special: The S.S. Elisabeth, sister ship to the S.S. Victoria, consists of 55 luxurious suites and staterooms, each fitted with full-length windows that open halfway to create an enclosed balcony, and king-sized beds. There are two Royal Suites on board, each offering 506 square feet of space. There is also a massage room, pool, gym, fine-dining restaurant, a bistro, and a rooftop bar.
Capacity: 110 guests
Maiden voyage: The S.S. Elisabeth will sail the rivers of Europe, starting with an eight-day Rhine Holiday Markets cruise (Basel to Cologne) departing on November 25, 2025.
Exploring the 18 Coolest Volcanoes in the World: A Visual Guide
Volcanoes are a stark reminder that our planet is alive and constantly evolving. They connect the world above to the immense geological forces at work beneath the surface, shaping landscapes and ecosystems in dramatic — and sometimes catastrophic — ways. When a volcano erupts, it can release lava, ash, and gases with enough energy to transform entire regions, creating new land or destroying existing ecosystems.
The 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption, for instance, unleashed a blast that flattened more than 200 square miles of forest, filled rivers with debris, and permanently reshaped the Pacific Northwest’s topography. In contrast, Iceland’s 2021 Fagradalsfjall eruption painted a different story, forming lava fields and turning barren terrain into a geological laboratory. These events, whether destructive or creative, tether us to Earth’s ancient history, reminding us of the planet’s unyielding power.
The north face of Cotopaxi in Ecuador. Photo: Henri Leduc/Shuttrstock
Volcanoes come in various shapes and forms, each shaped by geological forces and past eruptions. Visually, they can range from towering, snow-capped peaks to wide, inconspicuous mounds.
Some of the coolest volcanoes in the world are composite volcanoes, also called stratovolcanoes; they’re the archetypal “volcano” shape. These symmetrical cones rise from their surroundings and include internal layers of lava and ash. Their snow-capped summits often hide simmering, unpredictable activity. Examples include Mount St. Helens or Mount Fuji.
Shield volcanoes are broad and gently sloping, akin to a warrior’s shield. Lava from explosions travels long distances, creating vast, dark lava fields that can reshape landscapes, as with Hawaii’s Mauna Loa. Their eruptions tend to be less dramatic than those of composite volcanoes.
Cinder cone volcanoes are the simplest and smallest type, often no taller than a small hill. They usually have rough, reddish-brown slopes with a prominent crater at the summit, like Mexico’s Parícutin.
Hikers looking at the summit of Mexico’s Parícutin outside Mexico City. Photo: Nailotl/Shutterstock
Finally, volcanoes can form calderas — large depressions and valleys formed by the collapse of a magma chamber. Yellowstone National Park is a prime example, where a deceptively serene landscape hides one of Earth’s most powerful volcanic systems.
Activity levels of volcanoes are usually classified into one of three states: active, dormant, or extinct. A volcano that is currently erupting, has recently erupted, or shows signs of potential future eruptions is considered active. Dormant volcanoes haven’t erupted in a while, but are expected to erupt again in the future, and still may show subtle signs of activity, such as geothermal heat emissions or occasional tremors. An extinct volcano is no longer expected to erupt due to the lack of a magma supply. However, volcanoes can also be in states of transition: A “dormant” volcano can become active again, or a presumed “extinct” volcano can surprise scientists if tectonic activity resumes.
The coolest volcanoes in the world are a mix of all four types and range from active to extinct, in places ranging from Iceland to Indonesia, and everywhere in between.
Photo: Nitish Waila/Shutterstock
Photo: Miguel Escolano Pujol/Shutterstock
Photo: danolja_pictures/ShutterstockMount Bromo, part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java, is a captivating, smoke-belching volcano revered by the Tenggerese people. The landscape surrounding the volcano, known locally as the “Sea of Sand,” is otherworldly: ashen plains cloaked in mist that hides the intricate geometry of Hindu temples, and vibrant green ridges surrounding the volcanic cone. Despite its frequent eruptions, Mount Bromo remains a draw for adventure travelers and spiritual pilgrims alike.
Nearest town: ProbolinggoAccessibility: Jeep tours and hiking trails from the nearby mountain village of Cemoro Lawang; guides not requiredCurrently state: Active, with periodic minor eruptionsKīlauea, Hawaiʻi
Photo: Yvonne Baur/Shutterstock
Photo: Jo Crebbin/Shutterstock
Photo: Eduard Moldoveanu/ShutterstockIn Hawaii’s Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Kīlauea is among the most active volcanoes on Earth. Its frequent eruptions have reshaped Hawaii’s Big Island, forming new land and creating lava flows bright enough to illuminate the night sky. Kīlauea draws 2.6 million visitors annually, making it one of Hawaii’s major tourist attractions. The park has a variety of hiking trails, guided tours, and observation platforms, allowing visitors to witness lava tubes, steam vents, and the fiery force of nature from a safe distance.
While modern monitoring and evacuation systems have prevented fatalities in recent decades, Kīlauea holds the record for the highest death toll of any volcano in the modern-day US. In 1790, a gas explosion killed more than 80 people.
Nearest town: HiloAccessibility: Well-maintained park roads and trails with multiple routes to the explosion siteCurrent state: Currently eruptingWhere to stay: The best Airbnbs on the Big IslandMount Fuji, Japan
Photo: FocusStocker/Shutterstock
Photo: Anek Soowannaphoom/Shutterstock
Photo: f11photo/ShutterstockAn emblem of Japan, Mount Fuji is a nearly symmetrical stratovolcano on Honshu Island. Its snow-capped peak, rising to 12,389 feet, is Japan’s highest summit and has inspired centuries of art, literature, and spiritual pilgrimages. Mount Fuji is considered one of Japan’s “Holy Mountains” and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site owing to its cultural and religious importance. It’s also one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan.
Although dormant, Mount Fuji is closely monitored due to its potential activity. The last recorded eruption occurred in 1707.
Nearest towns: Fujiyoshida, Fujinomiya, Gotemba, and FujikawaguchikoAccessibility: Easily accessible via hiking trails and public transport; permits may be requiredCurrent state: DormantErta Ale, Ethiopia
Photo: Tatyana Druzhinina/Shutterstock
Photo: Ilya Unknown/Shutterstock
Photo: Stefan Warwas/ShutterstockErta Ale is a basaltic shield volcano in the Danakil Depression in northeastern Ethiopia. Its most distinctive feature is a rare and mesmerizing lava lake that has been active since at least 1906, when it was “discovered” by modern-day scientists. The area’s extreme conditions — intense heat, arid terrain, and a location below sea level — make it one of the most inhospitable places on Earth, as well as one of the coolest volcanoes you can see in real life. Some say it looks like Mordor from the Lord of the Rings series.
Visiting Erta Ale is not for the faint of heart. It’s extremely remote, with a harsh climate and potential security risks due to sporadic violence in the region. Tour operators offering expeditions typically include armed escorts for safety.
Nearest town: MekeleAccessibility: Only possible via guided expeditions with permits (usually from nearby Dodum)Current state: Active, with a persistent lava lakeFagradalsfjall, Iceland
Photo: Thorir Ingvarsson/Shutterstock
Photo: Hugo Hansen/Shutterstock
Photo: Daniel Freyr/ShutterstockFagradalsfjall, on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula, gained global attention with a breathtaking eruption in 2021, during which visitors could witness lava flows up close. The eruption transformed the barren landscape into expansive lava fields, making it a must-visit site for anyone interested in the dynamic power of geology.
Near Reykjavik, Fagradalsfjall remains a popular and accessible attraction. However, the Reykjanes Peninsula has experienced heightened volcanic activity in recent years, prompting evacuations in nearby areas and temporary closures of tourist sites like the iconic Blue Lagoon.
Nearest town: GrindavíkAccessibility: Hiking trails to the eruption site are open to the public, subject to current activity levelsCurrent state: Active, with sporadic eruptionsWhere to stay: The best Airbnbs in ReykjavikMount Nyiragongo, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Photo: Ben Houdijk/Shutterstock
Photo: Ivanfaurephotographer/Shutterstock
Photo: The Road Provides/ShutterstockMount Nyiragongo is home to one of the world’s largest and most active lava lakes. But the volcano’s eruptions, such as the catastrophic 2002 event that killed 245 in Goma, showcase its destructive potential: lava flows on Mount Nyiragongo are notorious for high speeds that make them particularly dangerous, reaching up to 37 miles per hour.
Despite the risks, adventurous travelers are drawn to Mount Nyiragongo for the rare opportunity to camp near its crater and gaze into its cauldron, making it one of the coolest volcanoes in the world for adrenaline junkies. Reaching the summit requires a strenuous six-hour hike through the Virunga Mountains.
Nearest town: GomaAccessibility: Possible, but only with a guide and permitsCurrent state: Active, with intermittent eruptionsMauna Loa, Hawaii
Photo: Gilles Gaonach/Shutterstock
Photo: Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock
Photo: Hawaii Photographer/ShutterstockMauna Loa, the largest active volcano on Earth by mass and volume, is a titan of geological significance. On Hawaii’s Big Island, it has a gentle, shield-like slope that belies its immense power. The most recent eruption in late 2022, though relatively mild, reminded the world of its potential. Historically, Mauna Loa has produced massive lava flows that have overrun villages and reshaped landscapes.
Today, Mauna Loa’s activity is closely monitored, and its surrounding area within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is popular among visitors for hiking, stargazing, and learning about the unique volcanic ecosystem.
Nearest town: HiloAccessibility: Public hiking trails, but you’ll need a permit to hike to the summit. Guides not required.Current state: Active, with infrequent eruptionsWhere to stay: The best Airbnbs on the Big IslandMount Etna, Italy
Photo: Alanstix64/Shutterstock
Photo: Carlos Yudica/Shutterstock
Photo: Wead/ShutterstockTowering over the island of Sicily, Mount Etna is Europe’s most active volcano and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Etna’s fiery displays have been recorded since ancient times, earning it a place in ancient mythology and modern geology. Visitors can trek through fertile vineyards and picturesque villages on its slopes or hike to its smoldering summit for impressive views of the surrounding landscape. The Ferrovia Circumentea railway provides a scenic journey around the volcano with excellent views from all sides, or you can take the Mount Etna Cable Car about halfway up the mountain to do a self-guided walking tour.
Nearest town: CataniaAccessibility: Solo hiking allowed below 2,900 meters (9,500 feet); guides required for higher elevationsCurrent state: Active, with regular eruptionsWhere to stay: The best Airbnbs in Sicily Mount Yasur, Vanuatu
Photo: Stanislav Beloglazov/Shutterstock
Photo: Paul Harding 00/Shutterstock
Photo: Pvince73/ShutterstockOn Vanuatu’s Tanna Island, Mount Yasur is renowned as one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes (though perhaps not for travelers from the US). Its near-constant eruptions have persisted for at least 250 years, and provide a spectacular display of glowing lava fountains and bursts of volcanic ash. Visitors can safely witness these natural fireworks during guided tours. It’s one of the coolest volcanoes to see at night, when the fiery activity contrasts dramatically with the Pacific Ocean’s dark night sky.
Nearest town: LénakelAccessibility: Open to the public via guided tours, or pay roughly $85 at the Visitor Entry Gate to visit on your ownCurrent state: Active, with constant minor eruptionsArenal Volcano, Costa Rica
Photo: Ganz Twins/Shutterstock
Photo: DeLoyd Huenink/Shutterstock
Photo: Wirestock Creators/ShutterstockOnce Costa Rica’s most active volcano, Arenal looms majestically over rainforests and hot springs. Although its eruptions have ceased since 2010, the area is still popular with visitors for hiking, wildlife spotting, and soaking in geothermal pools with the Arenal as a dramatic backdrop. There are so many geothermal pools that nearly every hotel in the area has its own, and luxurious day spas in the jungle exist for visitors who think the coolest volcanoes should be next to the hottest thermal springs.
Nearest town: La FortunaAccessibility: Reaching the summit is banned, but there are maintained hiking trails around the baseCurrent state: Dormant since 2010Where to stay: The best Airbnbs in Costa RicaOl Doinyo Lengai, Tanzania
Photo: Yehonatan Richter Levin/Shutterstock
Photo: MrLis/Shutterstock
Photo: Photovolcanica.com/ShutterstockKnown as the “Mountain of God” to the Maasai, this striking stratovolcano in East Africa’s Rift Valley is unique for its carbonatite lava, which flows at lower temperatures and rapdily solidifies. The lava starts out dark, but soon cools to a snow-white hue, giving its slopes and crater a weird, synthetic appearance after each eruption. Not only is it one of the coolest volcanoes in the world, but it’s also near some of the best safari experiences in the world, making it easy to add a visit onto a longer bucket-list trip.
Nearest town: ArushaAccessibility: Available as a multi-day (or fast 12-14 hour) hike; guides are requiredCurrent state: Active, with occasional eruptionsMount St. Helens, USA
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Photo: Roman Khomlyak/ShutterstockThis iconic stratovolcano in Washington State became globally known after its massive 1980 eruption; it was the most catastrophic volcanic event in US history. The eruption reshaped the mountain, drastically altered the surrounding landscape for miles, and reduced its elevation by nearly 1,000 feet. Activity continued until 2008, but has since ceased. It’s one of the coolest volcanoes in the US for national park enthusiasts, as the site is national monument and has trails of various ability levels surrounding the base and slopes. Note that you need a permit to hike above 4,800 feet.
Nearest town: Castle RockAccessibility: Trails open to the public. The summit hike is non-technical, but requires a permit.Current state: Active, with the presence of minor seismic activityVolcán de Fuego, Guatemala
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Photo: Roaming Pictures/ShutterstockAs one of Central America’s most active volcanoes, Volcán de Fuego frequently erupts with towering ash plumes and glowing lava flows. Its proximity to Antigua offers dramatic views of eruptions from the city, and the spiderwebs of lava flowing down the sides make it one of the coolest volcanoes to witness (from afar) during small eruptions. But don’t be fooled by its beauty: a devastating 2018 eruption that caused 159 fatalities and widespread evacuations, highlighting its formidable power. The hike to the summit is short, at under three miles, but it’s extremely steep the entire time.
Nearest town: AntiguaAccessibility: Hiking allowed only with a licensed guideCurrent state: Active, with frequent eruptionsWhere to stay: The best Airbnb near Lake AtitlánMount Mayon, Philippines
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Photo: Adrian Baker/ShutterstockConsidered one of the coolest volcanoes in the world for its near-perfect conical shape, Mount Mayon is both a natural wonder and a source of destruction, as the Philippines’ most active volcano regularly spews lava down its steep slopes. The local Bicolano people associate the volcano with Burungang Mayon, a protective deity who serves as a guardian of the land and enforcer of natural order. There’s a 3.7-mile (or six kilometer) radius from the summit around the volcano, marking an area completely off-limits to the public.
Nearest town: LegazpiAccessibility: Access is prohibitedCurrent state: Active, with frequent lava flows and ash explosionsKrakatoa, Indonesia
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Photo: Belikova Oksana/ShutterstockThe 1883 eruption of Krakatoa remains one of the most catastrophic events in recorded history, generating a massive tsunami and altering global weather patterns. Around 1927, an underwater vent in the caldera from 1883 began erupting, eventually forming a small island in the caldera known as Anak Krakatau. Today, it continues its predecessor’s legacy with periodic eruptions, including a 2018 eruption caused a deadly tsunami and is one of the most devastating volcanic events of the 21st century.
Nearest town: AnyerAccessibility: Viewable from boat tours, or go on land with a licensed guide onlyCurrent state: Active, with moderate eruptionsCotopaxi, Ecuador
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Photo: MarinaaaniraM/Shutterstock
Photo: Ecuadorpostales/ShutterstockCotopaxi, with its characteristic snow-capped peak, stands out as one of the highest active volcanoes in the world and has erupted more than 50 times since the mid-18th century. For the Indigenous peoples of the Andes, including the Quichua and other groups, Cotopaxi has long been considered a sacred mountain (apus) believed to house powerful spirits. To many, mountains are seen as living beings with immense spiritual significance. Cotopaxi, as one of the tallest and most imposing peaks, was revered as a protector and a deity. It’s considered one of the coolest volcanoes to photograph, as the contrast between its icy summit and fiery core offers a visual and experiential thrill for mountaineers and adventurers.
Nearest town: LatacungaAccessibility: Summiting permitted, but non-Ecuadorians must go with a mountaineering guideCurrent state: Active with periodic eruptions and fumarolesWhere to stay: The best “Top of the World” AirbnbsPopocatépetl, Mexico
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Photo: Andrea Izzotti/ShutterstockPopocatépetl, or “the Smoking Mountain,” is Mexico’s second-highest peak. The volcano has erupted several times throughout history, with at least 15 major eruptions since the arrival of the Spanish in 1519. Currently, access to the mountain is restricted, but you can find some of the coolest volcanic views in the world from Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park. Popocatépetl’s current activity phase started in 1994, and occasionally produces ash plumes visible from as far as Mexico City, roughly 50 miles away.
Nearest town: AmecamecaAccessibility: Access is banned, but there are views from lookouts around Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National ParkCurrent state: Active with frequent ash emissionsWhere to stay: The best Airbnbs in Mexico CityVillarrica, Chile
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Photo: ByDroneVideos/ShutterstockVillarrica is one of Chile’s coolest volcanoes — and one of the most active. It even sometimes has a lake within its crater, depending on recent geothermal activity. It was dormant for much of its history, but became active again in the 1960s. In 2024, it experienced a series of minor eruptions during the Southern Hemisphere’s winter, reaffirming its status as a popular but dangerous hiking destination.
Nearest town: PucónAccessibility: Hiking allowed with licensed guides onlyCurrent state: Active, with occasional lava flows and ash emissionsMore like thisAdventure TravelHow to See Volcanic Whakaari/White Island in New Zealand
December 30, 2024
The Mountainsmith Knockabout Makes Hiking and Traveling With Kids Much Easier
No one wants to call a fanny pack a fanny pack anymore. The word “fanny” just doesn’t seem to resonate, apparently, and while that’s a bummer for the nostalgic among us, it’s forced apparel companies to innovate in order to re-sell the public on a product that went out with the tides around the same time as the mullet. Hence theyo combo hip and shoulder pack, of which Mountainsmith has mastered with the Knockabout.
We hope you love the Mountainsmith Knockabout! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase.
There’s no small bag we use more on hikes or flights
Photo courtesy Mountainsmith
I acquired two Mountainsmith Knockabout bags a few years ago, figuring my growing family could use some easy-to-carry wearables that could fit snacks, emergency supplies, and other stuff that I, a few months from becoming a father, didn’t need yet but would soon find mandatory each time I left the house. Both bags were immediately co-opted by my wife, who has for three years now used them for two primary purposes: First, carrying her phone and small stuff on hikes, and carrying snacks and small stuff for our daughter when she’s with us (which is almost always). Second, at least one of the bags has been with us on every flight since our daughter was born.
She wears it so often that when we go anywhere outside and she doesn’t have it on, I look at her as though she’s missing something that I can’t quite place. Then it hits me – the Knockabout has for all this time prevented one of us from needing a full daypack when the other wears one. To be clear, the Knockabout isn’t going to replace a backpack if you’re traveling solo or need supplies for a full day in the field. Rather, it’s a way for one person out of a pair to remain agile enough to carry or otherwise escort a small child down the trail.
It’s easy to find anything you put into it because the main zipper opens to provide an aerial view of the entire interior. Chapstick and a multi-tool, always quick to slip to the bottom of any pack, are easily retrieved without having to unbuckle the pack from waist or shoulder.
How to get the most out of the Mountainsmith Knockabout
Riding atop the Snowbird tram with a Knockabout. Photo: Alisha Wenger
Beyond hiking, we use the Knockabout on travel days because it’s small enough to sneak under a sweatshirt or jacket and wear onto the plane without counting as a carry-on. This, again, is perfect for traveling with kids because it, again, holds snacks that otherwise would have been stuffed into my pocket and likely smushed. It’s also great for keeping a passport handy when moving through security and customs. Hotel room keys, a notebook, and other small must-haves fit nicely as well. All this goes to say that this $40 bag quickly became a tool that we hesitate to leave home without – and when you’re entirely overwhelmed by #parentlife, that makes it indispensable.
We’re not the only ones who have discovered this. The pack is regularly sold out on REI’s website, but it remains consistently available through Amazon. Colors include black, teal blue, red, and bright green – so it can match even those multi-color puffy jackets that I see everywhere these days. Users on both sites as well as the Mountainsmith website consistently praise the Mountainsmith Knockabout for its versatility – it holds more than it looks like it will, and if you’re too self-conscious to hip pack it, it slings easily over the shoulder. The compact size actually works to its advantage because the Knockabout doesn’t waste any space and doesn’t add much weight to your body, making it ideal for travel, hiking, and everyday use.
It’s been years since something so seemingly simple has become such a staple for us when traveling or in the outdoors. The Knockabout makes a great gift and is also an affordable addition to your travel or outdoor setup that you can buy on a whim without feeling guilty about it – even including shipping the total cost is less than a date night.
What could be better about the Mountainsmith Knockabout
Photo courtesy Mountainsmith
The Mountainsmith Knockabout is tough – both still function after three years of heavy use. They’re incredibly dependable. But I have a hard time imagining how we’d use them if we didn’t have a kid – I hardly ever leave the house without a backpack on, and most of the stuff I put in that backpack won’t fit into the Knockabout. The one place where I think I’d still use it is as a flight accompaniment, particularly if I’m flying on a budget airline that doesn’t allow a full-size carry-on. As noted, it’s easy to get this thing on planes.
The strap is connected to the top of one side of the pack and fastens onto the bottom of the other side, rather than a traditional fanny pack that straps from the two sides. Because of this I find it kind of awkward when strapped around the waist. I like it much better as a shoulder sling, but I realize that could be no more than personal preference. Alisha wears it primarily around her shoulder as well, though I’ve seen her strap it around her waist on several occasions and she hasn’t complained of any awkwardness.
Price: $39.99
Looking for the Perfect Kid-Centric Vacation? A ‘Yes Day’ in Greenville, South Carolina, Is the Answer
Overwhelmed with work deadlines and shuttling my son to and from school and birthday parties and art class, I knew I needed a record-scratching halt to our rat-race routine. I was tempted to lock us in our home for a weekend of nothing, but another source of inspiration struck that was inspired by the cool and collected mom Allison Torres in the Netflix film Yes Day.
In the movie, Allison, played by Jennifer Lawrence, leans into the chaos of raising kids by giving her children a yes day: a day to do all the fun things they wanted to do.
Despite my initial hesitations, I went for it and learned that giving kids a yes day could be a win for parents, too. Having my son plan a day with his favorite activities helped alleviate my stress around fixing an itinerary. He was in charge and I was ready to go with the flow. Even better, a yes day got my son to take a break from screens without a second thought.
More like thisEpic Stays11 Greenville, South Carolina, Airbnbs Near the Historic City CenterPlanning your own yes day could be as simple as explaining the concept to your kid or kids and seeing what happens. To really go all in, though, you can schedule your yes day around travel and add a trip into the mix. Greenville, South Carolina, has embraced yes days full-throttle for a yes day unlike any other with its Yes Day GVL program.
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Greenville feels like a big small town, but it’s packed with family-friendly activities that far outpace the city’s size. Ziplining in nature, indoor putt putt at Group Therapy‘s eye-catching course, and markets and biking trails abound. For my family, most of the restaurants and fun-filled businesses we visited were a 10-minute drive or less, with several options huddled around Greenville’s beautiful downtown district and within walking distance from our hotel.
Even without much of a plan, taking a family stroll down Main Street feels like a light adventure on its own. It opens the door to local favorites like River Street Sweets, with its barrels full of pocket-size candy (my son jokingly fit his head inside a barrel of candy as soon as we walked in) and homemade fudge at the counter in the back. If you make it out after saying “yes” to candy and treats, you’re one step closer to being the coolest parent ever to do the job.
If you plan family time in Greenville over a weekend in spring through fall, be sure to check out Saturday Market on Main. Dozens of vendors set up small booths to sell local wares. Everything from honey and salsas to wooden knick-knacks, jewelry, and fresh flowers is displayed for admiration and sale. If you’re there during the holiday season, see if your stay overlaps with the holiday market, which is logistically the same but with a jolly twist.
More like thisTravelWhere to Play, Eat, and Stay in Greenville, South CarolinaWhile the point of a yes day is to let the kids make the plan, you’ll want to have a starting point to get things going in the right direction. There is a lot of information out there with tips of things to do, and a narrowed-down list will help keep an abundance of choice from getting in in the way. You can’t go wrong with these options to build around.
What to do in Greenville for a “Yes Day” with your kidsChildren’s Museum of the Upstate
Photo: Sheeka Sanahori
The best part about taking children to a new-to-them children’s museum is they’re sure to engage with kid-focused exhibits and immersive learning experiences for the first time. That was the case at this Greenville museum. My son loved it so much that we could’ve easily spent the entire day here. He started on the large playground in the center of the museum. Once he had enough time climbing up and down the stair step tiles, he was ready to focus on more learning-focused exhibits. Upstairs, the Design It exhibit, which teaches about architecture, and a dedicated arts and craft area were big hits. If your kids need more time like mine, there’s an onsite cafe downstairs and plenty of child-friendly restrooms for brief breaks from learning fun.
Children’s Museum of the Upstate: 300 College St, Greenville, SC, US, 29601
Flying Rabbit Adventures
Photos: Sheeka Sanahori
My son was eager to try ziplining for the first time, and although Flying Rabbit has it, the offerings extend far beyond a casual glide along a cable. Here, you’ll take on a three-story obstacle course made of spider-like entangled rope. Parents and children can challenge themselves by balancing on a tightrope of wobbly logs, or climb high and face any fear of heights. Choose from a series of courses with varying degrees of difficulty, and if you get stuck? Don’t fear, the Flying Rabbit employees zip around each course to help bring people back to home base. Finish your feat with a glory-filled zipline, where you can reminisce about your adventure.
Flying Rabbit Adventures: 821 Laurens Rd, Greenville, SC 29607
Escape Artist
Photo: Sheeka Sanahori
I was unsure about taking an 8-year-old to an escape room, but there are tons of different kinds of mysteries to solve at Escape Artist. The Classified: Operation Nine Lives put my family in the middle of a save-the-world case that was more Inspector Gadget than James Bond. We started with a 60-minute countdown clock and the task to solve several cat-themed riddles. Luckily there was an in-character staff member who dropped hints to help us save the world. “This is the best day ever!” my son exclaimed as we left, triumphant in completing the course. It let me know I could mark this yes day as mission: complete.
Escape Artist: 209 East Stone Avenue, Greenville, SC, US, 29609
Biking the Swamp Rabbit trail
Photo: Kevin Ruck/Shutterstock
This 28-mile former railroad corridor has been transformed into a neighborhood favorite. The paved path is the perfect trail for a family stroll or bike ride. Enjoy the occasional peek at the Reedy River in between the trees. There are three different tracks to choose from on the Blue, Green, and Orange lines. Start at Reedy Falls Park in downtown Greenville, then follow the Green Line north and west to Unity Park, which is lined with great coffee shops, breweries, and a massive playground young kids will love.
To rent bikes, head a couple blocks north from the trail at River Street to head to Reedy Rides, where people of all sizes will get fitted for helmets and bikes to take on the trail.
Biking the Swamp Rabbit trail: Start at Reedy Falls Park in downtown Greenville
Where to eat and drink during a “Yes Day” in GreenvilleGreenville is known for its incredible food scene, from restaurants and bars to coffee and desserts. Maybe the perfect meal means heading to the outdoor food market Gather GVL for a wealth of options, or maybe it’s a quick refreshments break along a biking trail. Greenville’s restaurants have you covered whatever your preference.
Methodical CoffeeView this post on InstagramA post shared by Methodical Coffee (@methodicalcoffee)
Located in The Commons, a food hall that connects to The Swamp Rabbit’s Green Line trail, Methodical Coffee is a great pit stop for a quick morning bite or a mid-ride pick-me-up. This local coffee chain has been lauded as one of the best coffee shops in the country, and it’s easy to see why. The vanilla latte is made with real vanilla beans, and the hot chocolate is a kid favorite.
Methodical Coffee: 147 Welborn St b3, Greenville, SC 29601
Biscuit HeadView this post on InstagramA post shared by Biscuit Head GVL (@biscuitheadgvl)
The first thing to know about Biscuit Head is arguably the most important feature: the jam bar. If your family takes their fruit spreads seriously, this breakfast spot cannot be missed. Even for those who don’t consider themselves biscuits and jam enthusiasts, there are plenty of other delectable brunch options, from benedicts to beignets.
Biscuit Head: 823 S Church St Ste C, Greenville, SC, US, 29601
More like thisRestaurants + Bars5 Local Spots That Prove There’s Nowhere in the Country With Food Like Greenville, South CarolinaGrill MarksView this post on InstagramA post shared by Grill Marks Restaurants (@grillmarksofficial)
If your kids like a classic burger and fries combo, this downtown Greenville restaurant will be one to satiate their hunger. But the theatrical Freak Shakes (essentially extravagant milkshakes) are so whimsical and fun that your kids will not only gulp them down, but remember to tell their friends about it. Go for the unicorn, which comes with horns and rainbows.
Grill Marks: 209 South Main Street, Greenville, SC, US, 29601
Clare’s CreameryView this post on InstagramA post shared by Clare's Creamery (@clarescreamery)
Your yes day is likely to come with a request for ice cream, and this family-owned ice cream shop brings all the standard flavors and a few more with extra flair. Choose from seasonal flavors like peppermint hot chocolate, or homemade brownie cookie sandwiches, which have a scoop of vanilla in between brownie pieces.
Clare’s Creamery: 1635 E North St, Greenville, SC, US, 29607
Safari Testing the WANDRD Rogue Sling, a Bag That Helps You Get the Perfect Shot
When it comes to preparing for adventure travel, choosing the right bag is essential. And that’s especially true if that bag is going to house thousands of dollars worth of delicate, finicky camera equipment. Fortunately, an opportunity to test the WANDRD Rogue Sling came at the same time as a 10-day trip to Kenya, so I had the chance to put it through the wringer. After muddy drives in open-sided safari vehicles, bumpy bush flights, and visits to remote villages and eco-hotels, it’s clear the Wandrd Rogue Sling Bag is an extremely functional, thoughtfully designed option for real-world travel photographers.
We hope you love the gear we recommend. Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase. However, we never let that impact our opinions; our edited really uses and really loved this bag. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Durability is paramount when gear is subjected to the dust, heat, and unpredictable weather of Kenya in the rainy season, but the Rogue 9L Sling proved its mettle. Dust and dirt wiped off the surface easily, and the weatherproof zippers and materials kept my gear sealed away from the elements, even in afternoon downpours. It also resisted wear well, and despite constant contact with vehicle floors and rough ground, it barely has a scuff or scratch, and not a single fraying or loose thread.
When fully packed, the main compartment can hold quite a bit of gear. Inside is a camera body, 150-500mm lens, portable Wi-Fi device, packable backpack sunglasses, snack bar, voltage converter, and more. Photo: Suzie Dundas
The Wandrd Rogue Sling comes in three sizes: 3L, 6L, and 9L. Three liters is small for photographers unless you’re shooting with a tiny mirrorless camera and a petite lens, like a fixed 50mm. The six liter is probably big enough for most general or landscape photographers, allowing for a camera body and two mid-sized lenses, plus components like charging cables, memory cards, etc. My camera body is small (a Sony A7IV), but I have a downright gargantuan lens that goes up to 500mm, plus other lenses for everyday use. So I went with the 9L Wandrd Rogue Sling bag.
The bag comes with removable dividers, allowing me to separate and snugly carry the lenses and body separately in transit, but rearrange them as needed each day based on what lens(es) I think I’ll need. Even with my camera and lens, there was enough extra space in the main compartment for items like a charging cube, cords, a few snacks, a headband and comb, and even a pair of socks.
Buy Now: from $109
The Rogue Sling can carry quite a bit, especially if you clip items to the outside. Photo: Suzie Dundas
There’s a second large pocket close to the mesh back panel that can expand to carry a laptop (a very useful feature) and both an inner and outer pocket running the length of the bag. Those two smaller zippered compartments provided secure storage for SD cards, extra batteries, cleaning tools, and other essentials for any travel photographer. They’re also large enough to carry items like travel-sized bug spray and sunglasses, though the bag starts getting pretty lumpy if you try to carry anything bigger in the flat-ish pockets.
The fold-out bottom pocket is useful for narrow items like water bottles or tripods. Photo: Suzie Dundas
However, maybe the most useful feature is an expandable pouch on the bottom of the sling bag, with a cinchable tie at each end. I used that to carry a water bottle, though you can also shove a jacket, tripod, or pair of small shoes in there. (It tucks away with Velcro tabs when not in use). And on top of that, the Rogue Sling also has two external tripod straps for front carrying (though they barely were long enough to go around my bulky tripod). I also used carabiners to clip items to the various grab handles, including a packed rain jacket, a bandana, a baseball cap, and other items I was fine carrying on the outside.
Buy Now: from $109Easy access means you’ll miss fewer shots
I used the Rogue Sling on bush walks when I needed my camera gear, but not a full backpack. Photo: Visuals by Koech
The huge amount of stuff this bag can carry actually made it a suitable replacement for a backpack for short hikes, as well as a useful bag for keeping under the seat in front of me on flights, allowing me to put my bulkier backpack in the overhead compartment. Having a sling bag with room for both my camera gear and water was a game changer, eliminating the need for a backpack while still keeping my hands free while hiking. An effortless swing over my shoulder flips the bag to the front, providing quick access to my camera (and making changing lenses a breeze, even while walking.) In the past, I know I’ve missed good shots because I didn’t want to take off my backpack and pull out my camera, but the Wandrd Rogue Sling kicks that excuse to the curb.
The fact that it’s easy to swing to the front means you can grab your camera, switch lenses, or replace a memory card without missing a step. Photo: Suzie Dundas
The padded back panel and adjustable strap made it comfortable to wear for hours, even when fully loaded, and the cross-body design avoids the awkwardness of carrying a chunky bag in and out of tight vehicles and planes. It also ensures it doesn’t slide down your shoulder during heavy activity, and it felt secure whether I was carrying it across my back or tucked under my arm in front.
The only slight annoyance I felt in carrying the Wandrd Rogue 9L is that it’s a little large to try to use within another bag. I initially planned to carry my cameras in the Rogue Sling, then use that as an internal case within my larger travel backpack (the Wandrd PRVKE, $219+ on Amazon). But doing that filled nearly the entire backpack, as the Rogue Sling doesn’t compress very well. I would plan on using it mostly as a stand alone bag.
Buy Now: from $109It’s a useful bag, even without a camera
The WANDRD Rogue 9L is a big sling bag, shown here on a 6-foot, 1-inch guy. Photo: Suzie Dundas
I don’t carry my giant lens unless I know I’m shooting wildlife, but I do usually need some kind of bag (we all know how useless women’s pockets can be). Aside from having a rather technical/sporty look, the Rogue Sling worked well for that purpose. When I left my camera behind, I used it as a day bag, carrying my phone and charger, a notebook, sunglasses, an extra layer, big spray, and essentials along those lines, with lots of room to spare.
The 9L is a large bag, covering most of my back on my 5-foot, 7-inch frame. When wearing it over my shoulder, as I did most often, it extends as wide as my body, so it’s certainly very visible, and felt too big to wear as a hip pack/fanny pack. But it’s not really designed for that, and I’d default to something much smaller and more packable when I just need a small sling bag, like a Cotopaxi Del Dia hip pack. But I appreciated being able to use it as a day bag in a pinch, rather than having to carry a purse or second sling bag.
When moving through hotels and airports, the Rogue Sling was far more convenient than I thought. I wore my travel backpack on my back, and slung the sling over my neck, which kept both my hands free. I was able to smoothly move through airports, dirt paths, and up and down stairs while carrying both bags – in fact, I even carried a big duffel bag at times, too.
Buy Now: from $109The Rogue Sling’s drawbacks
The laptop pocket (grey pouch, bottom right) drops down from behind the back panel. But it doesn’t have any padding, so tread carefully. Photo: Suzie Dundas
No bag is perfect, and the Wandrd Rogue 9L Sling has a few limitations. For multi-day trips or photographers with multiple bodies, it’s not going to carry enough. (The larger PRVKE backpack is better for that purpose). The Rogue Sling is better suited as a day or afternoon camera pack.
Additionally, the 9L Sling is bulky. I don’t mind, as it means extra protection for my camera. But it’s not something you would carry “just in case” you need it, especially as it doesn’t compress very well. So it’ll probably need to count as your carry-on personal item, unless you have a huge bag to pack it into.
Also note that the fold-out laptop carry compartment (above) works well and is very convenient, but it doesn’t fit a laptop in a case, nor does it have padding around the bottom. So be careful with swinging your bag around if you use it for that purpose on active adventures.
The Rogue Sling was my constant companion for a 10-day safari trip. Photo: Suzie Dundas
After dragging it through three contents and pretty much every wet and dirty environment you can think of (including rain and snow at my home in Lake Tahoe) I’m very happy with the Wandrd Rogue Sling. It’s durable, carries enough to make it useful for day trips, and provides the quick and easy access to camera gear that photographers need to ensure they never miss a shot. While it may not replace larger camera backpacks for extended shoots, it’s a perfect companion for enthusiastic travel photographers, content creators carrying drones or video set ups, or even non-photographers who want a sling bag that can fit a full-sized laptop.
It’s a bit pricey as far as sling bags go, starting at $109, but for photographers, it’s nothing compared to the cost of cameras or camera repairs. I have a feeling I’ll be using it quite a bit in the coming years, and hopefully in the coming decade, since it has a pretty legit lifetime warranty. I also love that Wandrd has a pre-owned gear program called “Venture On,” ensuring that with a little extra effort, none of its products will ever end up in a landfill.
Where to Play, Eat, and Stay in Loreto on Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula
Loreto, Mexico, is magical. Don’t just take my word for it. The Mexican government designated the city in Baja California Sur as one of the country’s Pueblos Mágicos, or “magical towns” that provide “cultural richness, historical relevance, cuisine, art crafts, and great hospitality.”
Loreto’s magic comes in many forms: It’s the way the air feels when the sun sinks behind the Sierra de la Giganta mountains, and the day’s heat fades into the shadows. It’s Loreto’s history as the first successful town on the Baja California peninsula, starting with the founding of the first permanent mission on the El Camino Real. It’s the surprising number of great restaurants in the relatively remote locale and the protected nature areas nearby. It’s the clear and lively waters of the UNESCO-listed Loreto Bay National Marine Park and the greater Gulf of California, or Sea of Cortez, which Jacques Cousteau once called the “Aquarium of the World.”
My recent trip to Loreto was my third overall visit and my first in over 20 years. I visited in early winter when the weather is just about perfect, but the best time to visit Loreto really depends on your primary reason for going. If you want to see whales, come in late winter or early spring. Summer is the time for lounging on the beach and soaking up the heat, as well as casting lines for big fish like marlin and dorado (mahi-mahi) although you can fish year-round. For festivals and outdoor activities, look to the cooler temperatures in fall and winter.
Whatever time of year you decide to visit, here’s everything you need to know about Loreto, Mexico, from what to see and eat to where to stay and how to get around.
Things to do in Loreto, MexicoVisit historic missions
Photo: Craig Benson
Misión de Nuestra Señora de Loreto Conchó, or Mission Loreto, is smack dab in the heart of downtown Loreto. Founded in 1697 by Jesuit missionary Juan María de Salvatierra, it was the first successful mission established on the El Camino Real, a missionary road that runs from the southern tip of the Baja peninsula to Sonoma County, California. The stone church was completed in 1744 and has an impressive five-story bell tower that still rings regularly. Inside is a baroque altarpiece with the original painting of Our Lady of Loreto.
A bright yellow museum that was, at one time, a convent is attached to the church. Called the Museo de las Misiones de Baja California, it contains several hundred items, including 300-year-old church documents and Indigenous artifacts predating that.
Mission Loreto: Juan María de Salvatierra 14, Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico
Photo: Craig Benson
About an hour’s drive from Loreto is Mission San Javier (full name Misión San Francisco Xavier de Viggé-Biaundó). Originally built in 1702, it moved to its current location in 1710 to be near a spring, and the impressively preserved mission has had very little reconstruction done since it was built. In fact, the white paint on the walls and the glass in the windows are all original.
On the back side of the mission is a small museum. Outside, local vintners offer wine tasting. A short walk behind the church takes you into the old orchards; it follows the mini-aqueducts that channel water from the town’s spring to a 300-year-old olive tree. You’ll need a car to get to Mission San Javier as there’s no public transportation, but it’s a beautiful drive through the desert, into the canyons, and up the mountain.
San Javier Mission: 23893 San Javier, BCS, Mexico
Get to know the Malecón de Loreto
Photo: VG Foto/Shutterstock
The Malecón de Loreto is a walkway that runs for about a mile along the gulf. It’s bordered on the north and south by beaches, and it passes the city’s pier, marina, and giant, colorful Loreto sign. The malecón (boardwalk) is part of Loreto’s very culture — a place to get coffee right next to the pier, go shopping, enjoy a fine meal, or watch the sunrise over Isla Carmen. In my four days in Loreto, I went to the malecón twice to watch the sunrise.
Malecón de Loreto: Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico
Spend the day fishing
Photo: Craig Benson
Loreto has been known internationally as a sportfishing destination ever since American pilot Edward Tabor first started flying down visitors in the 1950s. You can fish right off the pier, where I saw people catching 18-plus-inch roosterfish at sunrise. If you’re up for a bigger challenge, you can also join a charter and fish for marlin out in the Gulf of California. Loreto also hosts big fishing competitions to catch dorado and other species, including the popular .
Arturo’s Sport Fishing & Tours: Hidalgo St s/n, Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico
Venture out on horseback
Photo: Craig Benson
During my recent visit, my group went to a small corral in a town called Ligüí that’s located a few miles south of Loreto and is set among the cacti and bushes. Mario Perez, our guide, asked each of us how much experience we had with horses and assigned horses accordingly. I got Suspiro (although I’m not certain that I heard the name correctly because the Spanish word suspiro means “sigh” in English).
We mounted and followed Mario through the scrub and sand as he pointed out and named plants like the torote (elephant tree) and palo blanco (“white stick” tree). Our horses were mostly content to follow each other single file. After a short ride, we popped up over a rise in the sand to see the bay’s beautiful blue water and Isla Danzante just offshore, and then rode down the beach. On the way back, Mario led us inland through the desert, through the town of Ligüí, and back to the corral.
Loretours Perez: 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico
Hike for the views
Photo: Craig Benson
There are many lovely hikes close to Loreto. But before you set out, remember to be careful hiking in the heat, the desert, and the mountains. Make sure you’re prepared to hike safely, starting with knowing where you’re going and bringing sufficient food and water — or make it easy and go with a guide, such as one from Vive Loreto Tours.
Rafa, my group’s guide one afternoon, led us on a roughly two-mile hike to the top of Cruz Hill. The hike was short but steep, and from the top, we had amazing views of the water and islands to the east and Marina Puerto Escondido to the north.
Vive Loreto Tours: Plaza Santuario #170 Loreto Bay, Nopolo, Loreto, BCS, Mexico
Go whale watching
Photo: Andrea Izzotti/Shutterstock
There are several species of whales that frequent the waters off of Loreto, but the largest and most majestic of these is the blue whale. According to Ivette Marines, Operations Director at Loreto BCS Tourism, blue-whale-watching season runs from the middle of January to the middle of March, but the most consistent time to see the blue whales is the month of February. The whales come to the calm, food-rich waters of the gulf to have their babies. In addition to guided hikes and other land and sea adventures, Vive Loreto Tours also hosts whale-watching tours.
Vive Loreto Tours: Plaza Santuario #170 Loreto Bay, Nopoló, Loreto, BCS, Mexico
Get a spa treatmentView this post on InstagramA post shared by Spa Las Flores & Boutique (@spalasflores.loreto)
Loreto has no shortage of places to get spa treatments. My friends and I chose to go to Spa las Flores, located right on the central plaza. It has everything from massages to pedicures to facials and a variety of combo packages. I chose the Violetas plan, and my therapist Laura gave me a relaxing massage and anti-aging facial.
Spa las Flores: Davis & Salvatierra St, Local #163, Loreto Bay, Nopolo, Loreto, BCS, Mexico
Where to eat in Loreto, MexicoMi LoretoView this post on InstagramA post shared by Mi Loreto (@mi_loreto)
Mi Loreto is a little cafe that’s decorated in bright, fun primary colors, making it feel like a fiesta could break out at any time. It’s just down the street from Mission Loreto and is the perfect spot to take a break from sightseeing in the Centro area. The menu features local standards. I was just off the plane when I visited, so I stayed on the lighter side, ordering a refreshing soup and salad — but for a real treat, try the enchiladas de mole.
Mi Loreto: Calle Salvatierra #50, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico
Los OlivosView this post on InstagramA post shared by Hotel La Mision Loreto (@lamisionloreto)
Los Olivos is one of several restaurants in La Mision Hotel and sits right on the malecón with views of the water. The atmosphere is elegant, and the service is friendly and responsive. The menu is a mix of steakhouse and nouveau Baja cuisine that features some authentic Mexican dishes and plenty of fresh, locally sourced seafood — I had a Caesar salad and linguine alfredo, both lovely. Make sure to leave room for dessert when you go. My table shared a chocolate brownie and fried ice cream that I’d recommend.
Los Olivos: Calle Rosendo Robles s/n, Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico
La Palapa San Javier
Photo: Craig Benson
La Palapa San Javier is a hop, skip, and a jump from Mission San Javier. The restaurant serves local cuisine in a rustic setting — think thatched roof with open wood beams, plus ornate wrought-iron chairs and tables. Owner Guillermo Bastida also owns a nearby ranch where much of the food — beef and citrus, for example — is sourced. The food was amazing. I had the machaca flautas (rolled tortillas with dried and shredded meat) and dulce de leche (carmelized milk) for dessert. I recommend anything with the machaca, which is beef from the owner’s ranch that’s been seasoned, dried, and shredded.
La Palapa San Javier: 23893 San Javier, BCS, Mexico
La Brisa
Photo: Craig Benson
Perched on the edge of Marina Puerto Escondido, complete with an outside patio where you’ll eat to the sounds of rocking and clanging boats, La Brisa is an American-Mexican fusion restaurant that specializes in wood-fired pizzas but also has the usual range of local dishes. It’ll also cook any fish that you bring in — as it says on the menu, “you hook, we cook.”
I went with the delicious and plentiful chicken fajitas and would also recommend the tortilla soup, which one of my companions described as the best she’s ever had. For dessert, the flan was a standout, and on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, you can hear live music.
La Brisa: Calle Bahia de las Palmas Manzana 15 Lote 1, 23894 Loreto, BCS, Mexico
El Zopilote Brewing Co.
Photo: Craig Benson
El Zopilote offers inside-outside dining on the edge of Loreto’s central plaza, just two blocks from the malecón and one block from the mission. It has a selection of local craft beers, wood-fired pizzas, pub food, and fresh fish. The atmosphere is casual and surf-y with beer on tap, a bamboo-fronted bar, and a cactus mural. The fish tacos were a group favorite, while I also enjoyed a crispy chicken sandwich that I would happily order again.
El Zopilote Brewing Co.: Calle Davis #13, Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico
RaízView this post on InstagramA post shared by Hotel Posada de Las Flores Loreto (@hotelposadadelasfloresloreto)
Raíz, a restaurant at the Posada de las Flores hotel, is a special experience. There’s been a building on this site for several centuries that’s been remodeled, reconstructed, and updated several times — the current version is Mexican colonial with bright, desert-themed colors, dark wood beams, and front doors that are hundreds of years old. But the pool above the dining room — yes, you can see through the bottom of the pool’s thick glass — is recent.
The menu changes daily and is a mix of local dishes and fine dining. You can choose from a regular menu or a four-course prix fixe menu, which was my group’s choice. Our meal included shrimp bruschetta, creamy bell pepper soup, farm-fresh salad made with greens picked that very morning, chili stuffed with seafood and mushrooms, and chocolate pudding for dessert.
Posada de las Flores: Avenida Salvatierra y Fco y Madero s/n, Fco. I. Madero, Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico
Where to stay in Loreto, MexicoHotel Rosarito
Photo: Craig Benson
Hotel Rosarito is a boutique hotel with two levels of rooms wrapped around a modest central pool and lounge area. The rooms are small but nicely designed, with a proportionately large and comfortable bed and a large tiled shower. The decor is a nod to traditional Mexican architecture with stuccoed built-in shelving, a closet, and a bench. Breakfast is included and served in the pool area. The central location is another perk — the hotel is two blocks from the beach, one block from Mission Loreto, and walking distance to many restaurants, services, and attractions.
Hotel Rosarito: Francisco I. Madero S/N between Juárez and Atanacio Carrillo, Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico
Posada de Las FloresView this post on InstagramA post shared by Hotel Posada de Las Flores Loreto (@hotelposadadelasfloresloreto)
Posada de Las Flores dominates Loreto’s main square with its two-story pastel pink walls. The building, in some form, has been around for hundreds of years, and the current bar area was at one time Loreto’s main general store and center of city life. The hotel went through a major rebuild and redesign 27 years ago to modernize it. It now has a fine-dining restaurant, a rooftop pool, and a spa just a few steps away. The decor in the restaurant includes open beams, pastel desert colors, and some original 200-year-old furniture.
Posada de las Flores: Avenida Salvatierra y Fco y Madero S/N, Fco. I. Madero, Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico
Villas del Santo Nino
Photo: Craig Benson
If you need a place for a longer-term stay or a larger group, Villas del Santo Nino has lower rates for multi-week stays and complete kitchens in each room. The compound has two-story blocks of rooms that surround an eccentric courtyard complete with an honor bar, pool, gardens, seating areas, a barbecue, and kitschy artwork — all of which is well situated a block from the city’s central plaza.
Villas del Santo Nino: Andador Salvatierra 4, Centro, 23880 Loreto, BCS, Mexico
Getting to and around Loreto, Mexico
Photo: Matan Hirsch/Shutterstock
The quickest and most convenient way to get to Loreto is to fly. Loreto has an international airport less than 10 minutes from downtown, and there are direct flights from many North American cities including Dallas, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and, seasonally, San Francisco, as well as a flight from Calgary, Canada. I flew from San Francisco (SFO) to Los Angeles (LAX) and then onto the Loreto International Airport (LTO).
Driving is another option. On one of my previous trips to Loreto, I drove from the US. It’s a long drive and a bigger time commitment than flying, but it’s well worth seeing more of the peninsula. For a shorter drive, you can also fly into the Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) roughly 300 miles south of Loreto, rent a car there, and drive some 6.5 hours to Loreto as part of a bigger BCS road trip. Loreto is also a popular destination for RVers.
Once you’re in Loreto, everything in town is within walking distance, from the many restaurants to the mission to the malecón. However, some activities and sights outside of town do require a vehicle. Renting a car is one option; going with a guide is often better. Not only are guided trips convenient, affordable, and informative, but it’s also great to have a knowledgeable local handle logistics.
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