Matador Network's Blog, page 84

After Nearly a Decade, a Secret Passage Used by Royals Reopens in Italy

Travelers headed to Italy next year will likely have to content with large crowds due to the Vatican Jubilee year — but there’s also so much new to see in the country in 2025 that it may be worth the crowds.

Florence’s Corridoio Vasari, or Vasari Corridor, is a hidden passageway steeped in history. And as of December 21, it’s open again to the public after a nearly decade-long closure. But there’s a catch if you want to visit: you’ll need a special ticket, and only 650 people are allowed to see it each day.

What is the Vasari Corridor?

 

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The Vasari Corridor is a one-kilometer raised tunnel above the shops that line the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s iconic medieval bridge. It was built by Italian architect Giorgio Vasari in 1565 under the direction of Duke Cosimo I de’ Medici, ruler of Florence, the first Grand Duke of Tuscany, and member of the powerful Medici family. It connected the Uffizi Gallery (the administrative center of Florence at the time) to the Pitti Palace (Palazzo Pitti), the luxurious estate of the Medicis. It allowed members of the Medici family to move between government buildings and their sprawling palace without having to mingle with the public. The Vasari Corridor was only for the exclusive and secret use of the Medicis — not even their staff were allowed to use it. It even had a balcony overlooking the interior of the Church of Santa Felicita, so the family could privately attend church services.

After the fall of the Medici family, the corridor was repurposed for artistic and cultural use. By the late 19th century, it was used as an extension of the Uffizi Gallery to display selections from the Medici family’s massive art collection. At some point in the 20th century, it was used to display work from the Uffizi’s priceless collection of self-portraits by renowned artists, including Rembrandt, Velázquez, and Raphael. However, it was only open for special visits and limited guided tours.

Why did it close to the public?

The Vasari Corridor (left) connects to the Uffizi Gallery (right). Photo: PeterVrabel/Shutterstock

During WWII, the Ponte Vecchio wasn’t damaged by German bombing — but the Uffizi Gallery and Pitti Palace were. Those buildings then sat unused for a while, so the Vasari Corridor did, too. Both buildings were eventually repaired, and the tunnel began to be used again on a limited basis. But in 1993, a terrorist car bombing carried out by the Italian Mafia caused significant damage to the Uffizi and surrounding buildings (and killed five people). That, combined with the fact that the 16th-century tunnel didn’t meet modern-day safety standards, led to it being minimally used, and in 2016, it closed entirely.

Now, it’s open to tourists in 2025 and beyond

 

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The 2016 closure was due to safety concerns, though the nature of the tunnel means that it could only be updated so much. The project cost about 11 million euros, spent on items like new emergency exits and ramps, LED lighting, and engineering supports to ensure the tunnel’s integrity. All of the self portraits were also removed from the space, and according to Uffizi Gallery officials, it will stay that way, at least for a while. The bare walls and quiet experience of traversing the tunnel will give visitors a sense of what it was like to use it as a Medici, especially compared to the throngs of people, noise, and hectic energy of the Ponte Vecchio shops below.

How to visit the Vasari Corridor

The secret passage ends at Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens (but you’ll need a separate ticket to access the gardens). Photo: Hungry_herbivore/Shutterstock

Because the Vasari Corridor can’t be brought to modern safety standards entirely (it’s hard to add emergency exits to a tunnel above a river), the number of people who can visit each day is extremely limited. Only 100 people are allowed every hour, divided into groups of 25 every 15 minutes. It’s open to one-way traffic only, serving as an exit to the gallery. Tickets should be purchased in advance online and are 43 euros (about $45) per person. The walk takes about 45 minutes and is led by two museum staffers. However, it’s not a guided tour — the guides are there to keep the entire group together, as walking on one’s own isn’t allowed, even for ticket holders.

At the end of the tunnel, guests are escorted through the Boboli Gardens to the Pitti Palace’s Ammannati Courtyard. From there, visitor with a ticket can re-enter Boboli Gardens. There’s no turning around in the tunnel, so if you leave anything at the Uffizi Gallery’s coatcheck, you’ll need to return to the Uffizi via the usual public roads to reclaim your items. (Walking between the Ammannati Courtyard and the Uffizi takes about 15 minutes).

At 650 people per day, and the Uffizi open only six days a week, that means a maximum of about 203,000 people per year can see the Vasari Corridor. In contrast, the full Uffizi Gallery saw 2.4 million visitors in 2023. So if you’re hoping to walk in the hallowed halls of the Medicis, make your plans as soon as possible.

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Utah’s Most Stunning Work of Art Lies on the Shores of the Great Salt Lake

The world’s greatest pieces of art aren’t all confined between the walls of museums; some are out in the open for everyone to take in without barriers. That’s the case of Spiral jetty, an artwork by the late artist Robert Smithson that’s located on the shores of the Great Salt Lake in Utah. For over five decades, Spiral Jetty has been widely considered to be the state’s most famous piece of art, as well as the most influential piece of land art in the world, as such it’s just been added to the National Register of Historic Places.

What is Spiral Jetty?

Photo: Charles E Uibel /Shutterstock

Spiral Jetty is a 15-foot-wide and 1,500-foot-long piece of land art created by Robert Smithson and constructed off Rozel Point on the shore of the Great Salt Lake’s North Arm. The immense artwork is a pier-like structure that starts in a straight line and evolves into a counterclockwise coil. It resembles a wizard staff, one that would not look out of place in Gandalf’s hands.

Spiral Jetty was built in 1970 from 6,650 tons of black basalt rock and earth. It is the most well-known piece of land art (AKA earth art) in the world. Land art is art that’s made directly in the landscape and from the landscape by using natural materials such as earth, rocks, wood, sand, etc.

Spiral Jetty is owned by the Dia Art Foundation since 1999, when Nancy Holt, the late artist’s wife donated it.

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While it is his most famous, Spiral Jetty isn’t Smithson’s only piece of land art. He also designed Broken Circle/Spiral Hill (see image above), which as built in 1971 at a sand quarry in Emmen in The Netherlands, and Amarillo Ramp, built in Amarillo, Texas (see image below).

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Of the three pieces of land art created by Smithson, only Spiral Jetty is open to the public and accessible for free every day of the year.

The evolution of Smithson’s land art pieces

Photo: Charles E Uibel/Shutterstock

Unlike other works of art that are kept in carefully controlled environments for their preservation, pieces of land art change with, are dependent on, the landscapes they inhabit.

Amarillo ramp, which was initially built to emerge from an artificial lake is now eroded and sits in a dried-up basin. Broken Circle/Spiral Hill, while still intact, has lost some of its perfectly circular shape due to decades spent in the elements.

In the case of Spiral Jetty, over the course of its existence, it’s been both entirely submerged and visible, depending on the varying water levels of the lake. Since 2002, however, it’s not only out of the water, but far away from the water’s edge because of “drought and water diversion projects,” The UMFA (Utah Museum of Fine Arts) explains. Great Salt Lake experts even use the artwork as a drought level indicator, something that the artist never intended.

Thanks to its new status as a nationally registered historic place, Spiral Jetty, and the environment surrounding it will benefit from public and private efforts to preserve and protect it. (Note that The National Register of Historic Places only includes properties that are at least 50 years of age.)

“We hope the enhanced recognition will dissuade other interventions in the landscape that negatively impact the environment and the lake’s ecology,” says Jordan Carter, curator at the Dia Art Foundation, to Artnet.

How to see Spiral Jetty?

Spiral Jetty is located around 2.5 hours by car from Salt Lake City, however, the site is remote and there are no facilities nearby (no bathrooms, no food or drinks venues, no gas stations), so visitors must come prepared. Detailed driving directions are available on the Dia Art Foundation’s website.

Visitors can walk on the artwork, and because it is not covered in water, it is safe and dry. Dia Art Foundation asks from visitors that they apply the Leave No Trace principles during their time at Spiral Jetty: They should not move any rocks, damage any vegetation, or make fire pits, for example.

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Things We Love: The Matador Team’s 5 Favorite Pieces of Travel Gear and More This Month

Holiday shopping may be (largely) behind us, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to treat yourself. What’s that bonus good for, anyhow? The below products were the favorites of Matador editors in December, and prove it’s not too late to keep yourself warm this winter, or start thinking about that first big trip in 2025.

We hope you love the gear Matador editors recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase.

Parmi Women’s Explore Jacket and Insulated HeadbandPhoto courtesy ParmiPhoto courtesy Parmi

When I look at outerwear, first and foremost, I consider if the jacket will work for all my outdoor sports and daily use. I don’t need a closet packed full of winter gear. I live in a small cottage and simply don’t have space. Nor do I need or want a lot of options. I just want something I can grab regardless of the activity. And that’s what Parmi, a Canadian company based outside of Montreal, is expertly designing and crafting.

I’ve used the Explore Jacket as a layer during a recent ski trip to Tignes, France; I chuck it on for cold morning runs and wear it to the supermarket and even to a friend’s house at the weekend for a bonfire. I love Parmi’s use of the two fabrics; it gives a slightly leather look to the shoulder and hood, which elevates the style. Parmi is also spot on with branding. There are no big splashy labels, and everything from the stitching to the lines of this garment has been thoughtfully (and elegantly) considered. I’m sure this jacket will be a base layer for years of sport to come. -Katie Gavin, Editor

I must also applaud Parmi for this headband. It’s oh-so-chic and not itchy – thanks for the fleece lining. Again, it’s an example of how this brand is crafting gear that is practical but also looks good. The headband comes in a couple of colors. I have one in bottle green, but there’s also a nice brown and cream-patterned version. At the moment, I’m living in this outdoors in Scotland. It keeps my ears warm on runs in below-freezing temperatures, and it’s also great for keeping my hair out of my eyes. – Katie Gavin, Lifestyle Editor

Headband price: $45
Jacket price: $233

Parmi Women’s Explore Jacket

Parmi Light Insulated Headband

Matador Equipment FlatPak toiletry bottles and Soap Bar CasePhoto courtesy Matador EquipmentPhoto courtesy Soap Bar Case

For years I’ve been whittling anything disposable out of my travel toiletry bag. Matador Equipment’s FlatPak toiletry bottles and soap case sealed the deal on my fully zero-waste bathroom setup. I got the three-pack of toiletry bottles. Before getting into how effective they are, it’s important to emphasize that they aren’t actual bottles – they’re soft-sided, refillable tubes that are TSA-compliant and can hold just about any liquid or gel you can think of to bring on the road. I use one for face moisturizer, another for shampoo, and the final one for mouthwash. Before getting these, I was using small glass bottles that I bought at a zero-waste store, and while those held the products just fine, they took up a ton of space in my toiletry bag and I was always nervous they would break mid-flight. The FlatPak bottles compress and flex into any available space and are easier to clean. The lids remove for filling, putting them about on par with how easy it was to fill the glass bottles. But they’re far more secure once the lid is on – I’ve yet to have a single issue with them spilling or leaking.

The Matador Equipment Soap Bar Case is similar in that it’s soft-sided and malleable. It replaced a plastic case I’d lug around soap in. It fits a standard-size bar of soap, or a few of the travel-size bars you find in hotel rooms. The ultimate win here is that if I open a bar of soap in a hotel room, I can bring it with me instead of 95 percent of it going to waste after a I check out.

Aside from having a great brand name, Matador Equipment has become a go-to brand for me over the past year because it’s products are dependable and burly, along with being very reasonably priced. – Tim Wenger, Transactional Content editor

FlatPak toiletry bottles: $38
Soap Bar Case: $14

Matador Equipment FlatPak toiletry bottles

Matador Equipment Soap Bar Case

Turtle Fur Wesley yak wool beanie

Photo courtesy Turtle Fur

I was born in and have lived most of my life in the uncontested heart of beanie-wearing country, Colorado. From mountain tops to breweries, it’s impossible to go anywhere in this state without seeing people wearing them. Beanies are an essential part of the mountain lifestyle’s dress code – which makes it unfortunate that I tend to look ridiculous in them. Maybe it’s my oddly-shaped head or awkward build, but of the dozens of beanies I’ve owned over the years I can count on two fingers the number that I felt confident wearing. One is the Wesley yak fur beanie from Turtle Fur. The yak wool is quite breathable and moisture wicking, making it a good companion for ski touring ascents and other such activities.

This breathable, flexible material is what makes it look good on me, too – rather than bleeding to be pulled down so far that it covers my eyebrows just to prevent bunching at the top, it melds to the shape of my head. Even when I fold an inch or so of the bottom over, the beanie still fits well and looks good. I’ve worn it out to happy hour and dinner immediately following a day on the mountain and felt both comfortable and appropriately dressed throughout. Plus, the Wesley is microfleece-lined with 100 percent recycled polyester and super-warm. It’s routinely well below freezing when I walk my dog in the early morn’, but with this beanie on my head and ears hardly notice.

Turtle Fur is a certified B corp and in general a good brand to support if you care about the planet we live on (wool is, in general, far more eco-friendly and circular than new polyester, for example). – Tim Wenger, Transactional Content Editor

Price: $65

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The Modern Melton Wool by ANIÁNPhoto: Morgane CroissantPhoto: Morgane Croissant

The fight against climate change and pollution isn’t limited to traveling by train instead of flying, or using an electric car instead of a gas one for your next road trip. Trying to lead a greener, more sustainable lifestyle means that we need to look more critically at everything we do and everything we purchase, including the clothes we wear. While it’s tedious, before we buy any new garment, we should look at its provenance, its composition, its quality, the conditions in which it was made, and the ethos of the brand that sells it. This is the process I went through before I purchased my Modern Melton Wool shirt by ANIÁN, and I’m glad I took the time to do so.

ANIÁN is a clothing company based in British Columbia, Canada, the province in which I reside. But the brand offers more than proximity to my home. By recycling natural fibers from clothing that would otherwise end up in landfills, and transforming them into new, durable, made-in-Canada garments, ANIÁN is a perfect example of exceptional circular fashion. And by giving its customers the chance to resell their ANIÁN clothes and getting store credit for them, it’s closing the loop once and for all.

While the brand sells t-shirts, hats, jackets, sweaters, and more, it’s shirts that ANIÁN is most famous for. The brand offers a small variety of cuts, styles, materials, and dye-free colors for its shirts, but my personal favorite is the Modern Melton Wool. Made of 80 percent post-consumer recycled wool that is densely woven in the manner of sailors’ peacoats, this shirt is extremely durable and warm; It’s also unbelievably beautiful. The colors are rich and nuanced, the cut is precise, the material is thick and stiff, yet pleasant to wear.

My dark green Modern Melton Wool is the item of clothing I wear the most in fall and winter. I throw it on top of a long-sleeved shirt in the fall, or a merino-wool turtleneck to stay toasty when the temperatures drop further. When I’m in France, my native country, where the weather is much milder than Canada, I pair it with a scarf and use it as a coat. It’s the highest-quality, and prettiest item in my wardrobe, and I hope to keep it for decades to come. – Morgane croissant, deputy editor

Price: $172

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This Country Set a New Tourism Record in 2024. Here’s How to Avoid Crowds if You Go.

Japan is one of the oldest countries in the world, or possibly the oldest, depending on how you define “country.” It was founded in 660 BCE, which at least makes it the oldest continuous monarchy in the world. And tourism likely started just a few centuries later, when Buddhist pilgrims from neighboring countries like Korea and China traveled to visit temples and learn from Japanese monks. So the country has had plenty of time to build up its tourism economy.

And now, it’s thriving. Japan just set a new record for international tourism, welcoming more than 33 million visitors so far in 2024, surpassing the previous peak of 31.9 million in 2019. That number doesn’t yet include data from December 2024, which means the final number will likely be several million higher. It’s a far cry from the country’s tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic, when it saw just 4.1 million visitors (in 2020).

Tourism in Japan has been growing steadily since the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo: leungchopan/Shutterstcok

The rebound is likely a result of favorite exchange rates and intentional government efforts to welcome international tourists, as well as Japan’s ever-enduring appeal. The country is recognized as being a global tastemaker and driver of modern culture, but still embraces and preserves its historic traditions.

One significant factor in the 2024 tourism boom is the weak yen, making Japan a more affordable destination for many travelers. As of November 2024, 1 USD is worth about 156 yen. In 2016, 1 USD was only worth about 100 yen, meaning that everything from accommodations to food, travel, and experiences within the country have become more affordable for international visitors, especially from the US and Europe. That allows more more budget-conscious visitors to visit, and also makes luxury experiences like high-end ryokan stays and gourmet urban dining more affordable.

Over the last decade, the government has focused on efforts to promote the country as a tourism destination. A “Visit Japan” campaign in the early 2000s kicked off the tourism push, and was followed by infrastructure and procedural shifts to boost tourism. That included easing visa requirements for several nationalities, introducing multilingual signage, and investing in improved travel infrastructure to comfortably accommodate a growing number of tourists. There are now more than 70 flights per day from the US to Japan, and some airlines have already announced additional routes in 2025.

But overtourism in Japan is real

Photo: Richard Whitcombe/Shutterstock

Perhaps because of those successes, multiple locations throughout the country are struggling with the effects of too many visitors. A recent survey showed more than 30 percent of foreign tourists experienced overtourism in Japan while visiting, and Mount Fuji had to institute a permit system to control the number of visitors on the most popular hiking trails. One town even built a wall to block a popular view of Mount Fuji that was attracting so many tourists, it caused congestion in the streets.

The most popular destinations in Japan are perennial favorites, such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Mount Fuji, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima. Fortunately, Japan is so culturally and geographical rich that you can find similar alternatives without the crowds, if you know where to go. Of course, it’s not exactly the same, as every town and city has its own culture and distinct feel. But the destinations below can be good alternatives, especially if you’ve already visited the country once or twice.

Go to Takayama, instead of Nara

Photo: SouthernCrx/Shutterstock

Nara’s historical sites are often crowded, especially given its proximity to Kyoto (it’s about 30 minutes away by train). But Nara is struggling with the impacts of too many people — it’s even impacting the town’s famously friendly deer. Instead, go to Takayama. It has a meticulously preserved old town with traditional wooden buildings, and offers similar historical charms in a more relaxed setting.
Go to Fukuoka, instead of Osaka

Photo: Blanscape/Shutterstock

Osaka is famed for its street food, but it can be overwhelming, especially around popular sites like Osaka Castle. If you’re a foodie traveler, you may find a similar experience in Fukuoka, known for its yatai (street food stalls) and local specialties like tonkotsu ramen. It has an equally vibrant food scene, but generally seems more laid back. If you’re a skier after a food-focused experience, you’ll find that Hokkaido has an ideal blend of epic winter adventure and tons of food- and drink-focused history.
Go to Nikko, instead of Mount Fuji

Photo: Leonid Andronov/Shutterstock

Mount Fuji’s trails are crowded, especially during climbing season — and that’s just the trails. The towns in the area are extremely busy in spring through fall, so if you’re keen to avoid people, go in the middle of winter. Alternatively, a good warm-weather destination in lieu of Mount Fuji is Nikko, about 90 minutes north of Tokyo on the Shinkansen train. Nikko is known for gorgeous landscapes, waterfalls, hiking trails, and tranquil cultural sites like Toshogu Shrine.

Go to Atami, instead of Okinawa

Photo: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Instead of heading to Okinawa, Japan’s southernmost prefecture, head to Atami. Beaches around Okinawa like Kouri Beach and Araha Beach get extremely crowded in the peak of the summer. But Atami, a coastal town south of Tokyo, offers hot springs, early-blooming plum trees, and beaches lined up along the western end of Sagami Bay (as well a host of gorgous beachside resorts). It’s also one of the best scuba diving destinations in Japan. 

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This Airline Flies to More Countries in the World Than Any Other

The United Nations recognizes a total of 195 countries in the world, and Turkish Airlines seems to be on a mission to fly to them all.

In the past 12 months, the airline has flown to no fewer than 120 countries, and by doing so it set the Guinness World Records title for the “Most Countries Flown to by an Airline”.

While the news was made public on December 20, 2024, the title was received on October 21, 2024, for the 12-month period between September 2023 and September 2024.

According to a press release, Turkish Airlines’s network is even bigger than the 120 countries it visited during the record period; the airline’s network covers 131 countries. This higher number includes “temporarily suspended routes” and the airline’s inaugural flight from Istanbul and Santiago via São Paulo, which took place on December 20, 2024.

In a comment about the record, Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi, explains that while the airline recently obtained the official Guinness World Records title, it’s been been flying to more countries than other airlines for a very long time.

“As the only airline to hold this distinction for over a decade, we proudly showcase the strength of our flight network and reinforce our mission to connect people, cultures, and destinations around the globe,” he says.

While it is very difficult to find accurate statistics on the numbers of countries (as opposed to destinations) that various airlines fly to, it’s worth noting the gap between Turkish Airlines and its competitors is very wide: Air France currently flies to 73 countries, Delta Air Lines flies to 60 countries, and Emirates flies to 77 countries, for example.

Here are all the countries that Turkish Airlines flies to at the time of writing, according to the list available on the airline’s official website. The list contains the name of 117 countries only, instead of the 120 for which it obtained the Guinness World Records title, as routes vary regularly according to many factors, including seasons, geopolitical reasons, and more:

AfghanistanAlgeriaAngolaArgentinaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahrainBangladeshBelgiumBeninBosnia-HerzegovinaBrazilBulgariaBurkina FasoCameroonChadChileChinaColombiaCroatiaCubaCzechiaD. R. of CongoDenmarkDjiboutiEgyptEritreaEstoniaEthiopiaFinlandFranceGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGreeceGuineaHungaryIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandItalyIvory CoastJapanJordanKazakhstanKenyaKosovoKuwaitKyrgyzstanLatviaLebanonLuxembourgMadagascarMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMauritaniaMauritiusMexicoMongoliaMontenegroMoroccoMozambiqueNepalNigerNigeriaNorth CyprusNorth MacedoniaNorwayOmanPakistanPanamaPhilippinesPolandPortugalQatarRepublic of the CongoRomaniaRussiaRwandaSaudia ArabiaScotlandSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSloveniaSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth KoreaSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSwedenSwitzerlandTajikistanTanzaniaThailandThe NetherlandsTunisiaTurkmenistanTürkiyeUAE (United Arab Emirates)USA (United States of America)UgandaUK (United Kingdom)UzbekistanVenezuelaVietnamZambia

What It’s Like Inside Kuala Lumpur’s Merdeka 118, the 2nd Tallest Building in the World

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, ranks in the top 10 when it comes to cities with the most skyscrapers 150 meters (just over 490 feet) or taller. The Petronas Towers have been the city’s crown jewel since the two side-by-side buildings officially opened in 1999 at 452 meters (1,483 feet) tall. The towers, in fact, were the tallest in the world until 2003. However, they now don’t even crack the top 15 tallest buildings. A new building in the city, Merdeka 118, is once again putting Kuala Lumpur near the top of the list.

Merdeka 118 is the second tallest building in the world at 679 meters (2,227 feet), behind only the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. The opening ceremony took place on January 10, 2024, after about a decade of construction, though some aspects are yet to open, like a soon-to-come Park Hyatt hotel and a shopping mall. The 18,144 glass panels on the exterior reflect the city. But, of course, the real showstopper is located near the top: two observation decks called the “View at 118” located on floors 115 and 116. On a recent advance preview of Merdeka 118, I didn’t see the very top of the building. Still, the view from just under the top is a thrill.

Photo: Norm Bour

Under the watchful eyes of vigilant security personnel, my vendor-guided tour of the building began in the grand lobby. Stringent security measures were rightfully in place — the tower has become a challenge for “skywalkers,” also called “rooftoppers,” who are daredevils who illegally scale towering structures to capture content for social media. In one case, two Russian climbers evaded security cameras, outmaneuvered guards, and spent more than 30 hours in Merdeka 118 before scaling not only the building but also its 500-foot-plus spire. They performed stunts that would be dangerous even at ground level at the heart-stopping height. Netflix has a documentary on that transgression, Skywalkers: A Love Story, which is worth watching.

The exterior

Photos: Norm Bour

Merdeka 118 is as striking as it is tall with its mirrored facade and distinctive asymmetrical spire. Glass, steel, and high-performance concrete use a triangle pattern that has dips and peaks — visually appealing, but also functional for shade and a reference to traditional Malay art. The dramatic pinnacle serves as more than mere adornment — it symbolizes a pivotal moment in Malaysian history. The spire is off center and designed to emulate the silhouette of Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman raising his hand skyward as he shouted “Merdeka!” (independence) on August 31, 1957, marking Malaysia’s liberation from British rule.

Getting inside

Photo: Norm Bour

My destination was the 92nd floor — as high as I got. But the journey began in an immense lobby. “Immense” barely captures the scale of this vast vestibule, with an upward view that goes on and on. The standalone lobby entrance I used serves exclusively as a gateway to the tower rather than adjoining malls or other buildings.

Photo: Norm Bour

My first stop at floor 76 offered a glimpse into the future home of Park Hyatt’s lobby. The hotel will cover 17 stories with 252 guest rooms and an observation deck. With more floors to go, the views from here were already impressive. To the 92nd floor I went.

Photo: Norm Bour

Here, I found one of those “pictures speak a thousand words” situations. When I visited, the floor was sparse with just a modest café area. That proved to be a benefit, as I could walk 300 degrees and see a wide swath of the landscape. The most impressive view, in my opinion, is from the corner facing the Petronas Towers and the KL Tower, two of the other tallest structures in town.

Photo: Norm BourPhoto: Norm BourPhoto: Norm BourPhoto: Norm Bour

Making this view available was a construction challenge. The tropical environment meant careful attention to extreme weather conditions with heavy rain and strong winds. An innovative jackhammer technique was needed to align the towering spire.

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The grandiose visions (and billions of dollars in capital) help developers and city leaders stand out by creating these buildings that seem an insurmountable challenge to built. That will only become more clear as further aspects of Merdeka 118 open, like the hotel and its rooms with ultimate views and the 150,000 square feet mall with space for more than 328 stores. For architecture enthusiasts and lovers of great heights, the view from above the clouds is worth the effort.

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Here’s Why You Should Start a Timer as Soon as Your Plane Arrives

If you’ve traveled much in the last few years, you’ve probably already realized that airport and airline delays are common. And it seems like airlines are always trying to get out of compensating or paying customers, so much so that the US Department of Transportation (DOT) is trying to mandate that airlines give hotel rooms to delayed passengers, rather than making them sleep on airport floors. But what may surprise some travelers is that a few airlines still do attempt to do some things on time — like getting checked bags to the baggage carousels promptly.

Some airlines are so confident they can deliver your bags on time that they’re willing to pay you (in airline miles) if they don’t. It’s only for domestic flights, and the length of time considered reasonable depends on the airline. That’s why you should set a timer on your phone the second your plane makes contact with the arrival gate, as it’ll help you know exactly when you become eligible for compensation.

While baggage guarantees ensure the airlines will try to get your bags to the luggage carousel in a reasonable amount of time, it doesn’t mean you’ll get there quickly. There’s no guarantee that you won’t sit on the plane for a while at the gate, or have to wait around for an airport train to get to the luggage carousel. In cases like that, your luggage may beat you there, but unfortunately, there’s no way to prove how quickly it did or didn’t get there.
To avoid extensive delays, consider trying to avoid some of the airports known for the worst delays in the US.

Airlines with baggage guarantees

If this process is delayed, you could score free miles. Photo: Tyler Olson/Shutterstock

Alaska Airlines: Alaska Airlines offers a rather speedy 20-minute baggage guarantee. If checked bags aren’t at the carousel within 20 minutes of the aircraft’s arrival at the gate, passengers can choose between a $25 discount on a future Alaska Airlines flight or 2,500 Mileage Plan bonus miles. You need to have an Alaska Airlines frequent flyer account, but it’s free to join. To cash in on the guarantee, you have to notify an Alaska Airlines customer service agent at the airport within two hours of your arrival. So make sure to do it as soon as you notice it’s been longer than 20 minutes — you can’t do it after your trip is over.

Delta Airlines: Delta also offers a 20-minute bag guarantee, giving 2,500 SkyMiles to passengers whose bags arrive outside that window. However, Delta gives flyers a bit more time to submit a request. You’ll have up to three days after your flight arrives to file a claim online. Note that you need to be a Delta Airlines SkyMiles member before you travel to file a claim, so make sure you’ve enrolled in the free program before you start your trip, just in case.

No other airlines in the US have a baggage guarantee, but major carriers like United, Southwest, and American Airlines are using new technology to reduce the number of lost and delayed bags. However, if your bag does take an unusually long time to come out (this writer waited two hours for a “priority” checked bag on United earlier this year), you’re not totally without recourse. Most airlines will allow you to contact customer service if you have an especially bad experience, and will sometimes offer a small amount of miles as compensation.

Just remember that the airlines will often blame it on factors outside their control, especially for international destinations or codeshare partners. You’re more likely to get some kind of compensation if you’re a frequent flier. With low competition and only a few airlines operating the vast majority of flights in the US, there’s unfortunately not a lot of incentive for airlines to prioritize customer satisfaction, especially if you’re just a one-time flyer.

Most major airlines do provide compensation if your bag is lost or delayed, and will usually deliver it to your hotel or home, rather than making you return to the airport to claim it.

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You Can Now Text by Satellite in Remote Areas With No Service

If you find yourself in the middle of nowhere, without cell service or WiFi coverage, but want to reassure your family and friends that all is well, you can now text them via satellite with your iPhone.

If you’re the owner of an iPhone 14, or a newer iPhone model, with at least iOS 18 as your operating system, you have the possibility to send texts via satellite for free.

Texting by satellite is currently only available in the US and in Canada, and is only free for two years after being activated.

Sending texts by satellite isn’t the same as sending an SOS to emergency services; it’s only meant for communicating with your contacts.

Who can you text via satellite, and who can text you?

The first thing you need to know is that only you, the person being out of cell service or WiFI coverage, are able to begin a text conversation via satellite. If your mom, dad, spouse, or bestie is worried about your whereabouts while you’re hiking in Yosemite National Park, for example, you must first text them via satellite to let them know how you’re doing. From there, they can respond.

If you want them to be able to reach out to you first, you must add them to your Family Sharing group or your emergency contacts prior to setting off to the wilderness.

How to text someone via satellite with your iPhone

If you’re out of cell service or WiFi coverage but want to text a family member or friend, you must go to the Messages app, as you normally would to send a text. From there, you’ll get a prompt and a button that says “Use Messages via Satellite”.

Screenshots taken from the Satellite Connection Demo available on iPhone 14 and newer models. Note that you need to allow Location Access to be able to text via satellite. Photos: Nick Hines

Press that button and follow the instructions that appear near the icon of a satellite. Instructions will take the form of arrows and may ask you to turn right or left to connect with a satellite. Remember to position yourself so that you have an unobstructed view of the sky, away from foliage, for example.

Follow the instructions on your phone until a green dot appears. Photos: Nick Hines

When a solid satellite connection is established, a green dot will appear on your screen. If the signal diminishes, the dot will turn orange.

Once connected, you can send texts, as well as emojis and Tapbacks to your contacts. You cannot, however, send photos, videos, or audio files.

Note that other satellite services are available on your iPhones for emergency situations, including Emergency SOS, Roadside Assistance, and Find My.

For those with an older iPhone, know that sharing your location on the Find My app on your iPhone is also a good way for your friends and family to keep track of you when you’re venturing out in the wilderness.

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How 3 Colorado Towns Are Working to Be Leaders in Accessible Travel

The state of Colorado is taking big strides to be more accessible, enjoyable, and inclusive of travelers with differing physical abilities. The Colorado Tourism Office, in partnership with Wheel the World, launched a pilot program this year to improve accessibility for travelers with disabilities. Three destinations — Beaver Creek Resort Company, Glenwood Springs Chamber of Commerce, and Pueblo Chamber of Commerce — were selected to receive on-site accessibility assessments, staff training, and marketing support in the final round of announcements made in November.

This initiative aligns with Colorado’s Destination Stewardship Strategic Plan, aiming to make the state a more inclusive and welcoming place for all visitors. The program’s goal is to enhance accessibility in key tourist areas and promote verified accessible sites. This effort builds upon Colorado Springs’ prior achievement of Wheel the World’s Destination Verified Seal.

What the Accessible Travel Program will do for travelers to Colorado

Photo: Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock

According to Wheel the World, 1 in 4 US travelers will travel with someone needing some level of accessibility at least once per year. The Accessible Travel Program will help participating cities and towns throughout Colorado better accommodate these travelers, and provide more equitable access to the outdoors.

“This program showcases Colorado’s commitment to ensuring that tourism is accessible to everyone, regardless of physical ability,” Timothy Wolfe, Director of the Colorado Tourism Office, said in a press release. “This pilot initiative represents a significant step in making Colorado a leader in accessible tourism, empowering both visitors and local communities.”

Colorado’s approach to inclusive tourism development is centered around ensuring that all visitors, regardless of physical abilities, can experience the state’s offerings. The Destination Stewardship Strategic Plan is a 10-year plan with the goal of enhancing responsible and inclusive tourism across the state. By collaborating with Wheel the World, Colorado is expanding its offerings for travelers with disabilities and their companions. In April 2024, Visit Colorado Springs was the first destination in the state to receive Wheel the World’s official Destination Verified Seal.

“(The Accessible Travel Program) is a pilot program in partnership with Wheel the World, a private company that verifies businesses and destination accessibility status,” Heidi Pankow of Visit Glenwood told Matador. “This pilot program from the Colorado Tourism Office will allow us to go through a destination accessibility audit, become a verified destination, work with our tourism partners to amplify their accessibility and educate our partners and workforce in the best ways to welcome travelers with accessibility needs.”

Glenwood Springs is one of three Colorado destinations selected to participate in the program, Pueblo and Beaver Creek were also selected and will receive support for current and forthcoming accessibility efforts.

“Basically, through this program we will be able to make what is accessible in Glenwood Springs visible to potential guests,” Pankow says.

Improving accessibility access in and around the selected cities

The Pueblo Riverwalk. Photo: Paul Brady Photography/Shutterstock

“We believe that our residents and visitors alike should have the opportunity to experience the amazing tourism activities & attractions that Pueblo has to offer, regardless of their physical abilities,” says Mandy Thacker, Community Development Coordinator with the Greater Pueblo Chamber. “Accessible travel is not only a fundamental right but also a powerful economic driver.”
Thacker noted that Pueblo’s ADA Committee has already made significant improvements to make the outdoors more accessible in and around the city. The accessible travel program will help Pueblo capitalize on that progress and further improve access.

The selected destinations will receive support for the following:

On-site accessibility assessments for up to 23 accommodations and attractions.Marketing support to list verified accessible sites on Wheel The World’s platformFree online training for hospitality professionals on accessible travel best practicesA final summary report with recommendations for continued accessibility efforts

Glenwood Springs has assembled a “Core Team” of local stakeholders to guide the city through the Accessible Travel Program.

“The first step is to compile the list of 23 sites that will be audited by the Wheel the World team as part of the Verified Destination process,” Pankow says. “In addition to learning what our local offerings are, we will get recommendations from the WTW team on how to improve/increase our accessibility. We will be happy to share the outcomes from the program as we go through the processes, we are very excited to learn and grow.”

Travel to the state should get easier for those in wheelchairs and with physical impairments on a rolling basis going forward, as efforts are enacted and results begin to emerge.

“When destinations and accommodations are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, they become more inclusive and attract a wider range of visitors,” Thacker says. “This can boost local economies, create jobs, and foster cultural understanding.”

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Going Home for the Holidays? Experts Say Don’t Drive on These Dates.

Despite how much media attention gets given to busy airports when Christmas rolls around, only a small percentage (about 6.6 percent) of travelers are flying over the holidays. That means most Americans who plan to travel before and after Christmas will be driving to their destinations. So roads are going to be really, really crowded.

According to the American Automobile Association, or AAA, 119 million people are expected to travel between Saturday, December 21, and Wednesday, January 1, 2025. Of that amount, 107 million are expected to drive at least 50 miles from home, which is about 2.5 million more people than traveled by car during the same period in 2023. Because Christmas falls midweek, it’s likely that most travelers will take off the entire week, driving on the weekends before and after the holiday. The report also notes that gas prices are lower than they were toward the end of 2023, which makes the financial offered by driving, rather than flying, even higher. (The national average as of December 18 is $3.03 per gallon, though it can be more than double than that in some parts of the country).

What to expect on the worst days to drive for Christmas in 2025

Photo: AAA Holiday Travel Forecast

If you’re driving in the next two weeks, the AAA report advises that the worst days to travel for Christmas will be the weekend of December 21 and 22, with Sunday, December 22, being the worst of the worst. It’s expected to be the busiest day for driving, especially during afternoon hours. The best days for driving are those closest to the holiday, including Christmas Eve (December 24) and Christmas Day (December 25). Likewise, driving on January 31 (New Year’s Eve) and January 1, 2025 (New Years Day) will maximize your chances of having a quick, traffic-free journey.

Based on AAA’s data, the days and times in the table above will be the best and worst for long-distance driving this year.

As is often the case, traffic around DC and the beltway is expected to be some of the worst in the country around Christmas. Photo: Daniel J. Macy/Shutterstock

Depending on where you live in the US, travel could be even worse than the national average. Based on traveler data, AAA anticipates that some metro areas will see extremely bad traffic as people head home for the holidays. Washington, DC, famous for bad traffic year-round, is expected to be the most congested metro area, with traffic woes peaking on the afternoon of Thursday, December 19. It could see a 160 percent increase in delays (not 60 percent — 160 percent). Other metro areas and times drivers will want to avoid include:

New York, NY: Avoid hitting the road on Sunday, December 22, where there could be a 108 percent increase in traffic in the late afternoon, especially if you’re headed toward Long Island.Seattle, WA: Drivers headed vaguely in the direction of Ellensburg, WA, will likely see a 106 percent increase in drive times, especially if they leave in the evening on Friday, December 20.Boston, MA: If you’re heading south from Boston, avoid the afternoon of Friday, December 20, where drives may take 100 percent longer than normal (a.k.a., take twice as long).Other metro areas, including San Francisco, CA; Los Angeles, CA; Denver, CA; Tampa, FL; Portland, OR; and Chicago, IL, will see drives take 50 to 100 percent longer than normal.Drivers around Atlanta, GA; Detroit, MI; Minneapolis, MN; Philadelphia, PA; and San Diego, CA, should expect drives to take between 35 and 49 percent longer than normal. More like thisTravel5 of the 10 Busiest Airports in the World Are in the US, For Now