Matador Network's Blog, page 91
November 13, 2024
Apple AirTags Can Now Help Airlines Find Your Missing Luggage Faster

Apple’s AirTags are about to get a brilliant new feature. With iOS 18.2 (now available in beta), the Find My app has a new option to share an item’s location. You can do so not only with your significant other but also with third parties like airlines. That means if you have an AirTag on your luggage and it’s lost or mishandled, you can share the location with the airline and (hopefully) get your belongings back a lot faster.
We hope you love the products we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to purchase. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Right now, air travel feels more unpredictable than ever, with delays resulting in slim-line connections. This year, I’ve reached my destination without my checked bag on three of my four work trips.
Sure, I can sprint a mile or so through Heathrow Home Alone style to my departure gate. I’ve done this many times before (and it’s not pretty), but part of me feels like what’s the point if I manage to board drenched in sweat with the dreaded feeling that there’s not a snowball’s chance in hell my bag has also made the connection.
Unless I’m on the return leg and going directly home to a fresh pair of pajamas, perhaps I should saunter and miss boarding. At least I’ll know I’m in the same place as my belongings, and they’ll likely be on the next flight with me. On the three occasions my luggage was lost in 2024, various airlines took between 24 — 48 hours to deliver the bag. That’s an inconvenience if you’re vacationing on the beach and devastating if you need specialized gear, meeting new people for the first time, or representing the company.
Granted, I’ve never used an AirTag on my luggage before. I’ve not seen the point. Other than being able to track down someone who accidentally took the wrong bag off the conveyor belt, seeing the luggage stuck in transit wouldn’t have made a huge difference to the situation. However, Apple’s announcement about the new AirTag feature could be a game-changer.
“The Find My network and AirTag have proven to be a powerful combination for users while traveling, providing invaluable location information when bags have been misplaced or mishandled. With Share Item Location, we’re excited to give users a new way to easily share this information directly with third parties like airlines, all while protecting their privacy,” says Eddy Cue, the company’s senior vice president of services.

Photo: Apple
With Share Item Location, you can generate a link in the Find My app, which can then be shared with airlines. This link provides real-time location updates of the lost luggage on an interactive map. The location is automatically updated and includes a timestamp for the most recent update. On the note of privacy, the shared location of the item is automatically disabled once it’s recovered. You can also stop sharing at any time, and the link expires after seven days — here’s hoping you’re not waiting more than a week to be reunited with your luggage.
Apple says in the coming months, the following airlines (more to follow) will integrate this technology into their customer service protocol.
Aer LingusAir CanadaAir New ZealandAustrian AirlinesBritish AirwaysBrussels AirlinesDelta Air LinesEurowingsIberiaKLM Royal Dutch AirlinesLufthansaQantasSingapore AirlinesSwiss International Air LinesTurkish AirlinesUnitedVirgin AtlanticVuelingApple is also working with SITA, a leading air transport technology company, to integrate Share Item Location into its WorldTracer baggage-tracing system. This is used by over 500 airlines at almost 3,000 airports worldwide.
Apple AirTags are currently on sale for Black Friday with reductions of between 29 and 34 percent. A pack of four ($69.99) is a must for families, and a single ( $19.00) is suitable for one piece of luggage. You’ll also need a lockable key chain to secure the tag to your belongings.
Gladiators Are Returning to Rome’s Colosseum â and You Could Be One

Iâve read weâll miss Russell Croweâs Maximus in Ridley Scottâs Gladiator II, but itâs been 20-some years since Crowe unleashed hell on ancient Rome, and I think weâve waited long enough for a predecessor. The blockbuster is screening in theatres from November 22, and in celebration of the riveting sequel (and Denzil Washington), Airbnb and Paramount Pictures have teamed up to offer the wildest Icons experience to date, the chance to enter the Colosseum in Rome after dark and train as a gladiator.
We hope you love the Gladiator Icons Airbnb we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Photo: Airbnb/Daniele Castellaro
Airbnb launched Icons in May. So far, weâve been offered experiences such as a night in a home inspired by Disney and Pixar’s Up, an overnight stay in the Ferrari Museum, a chance to witness the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games at the Musée d’Orsay, and a slumber party at Prince’s Purple Rain house. These experiences are reasonably priced. They donât include travel to the destination, but each costs under $100 per person.

Photo: Airbnb/Christopher Anderson
On that note, the new Colosseum experience will cost the lucky chosen 16 (8 guests and their plus one) $0. All you need to do is be ready for combat and request to book one of two three-hour experiences held from May 7 to 8, 2025. Airbnb will launch âbookingâ from November 27 at 6:00 AM PT to December 9 at 11:59 PM PT. You will be responsible for your flights to Rome and accommodation (the experience does not include an overnight stay in the Colosseum). However, Airbnb lists some epic properties near the Colosseum that are reasonably priced and have views over the amphitheater.
Traveling to Rome? Check out Matadorâs Rome accommodations guides: 11 Rome Airbnbs With a Gorgeous View of the Colosseum This Five-Star Historic Hotel Has the Best Location in All of Rome Skip the Crowds in Rome With a Stay at One of These Luxurious Hotels Next to the Colosseum The Finest Airbnbs Near the Trevi Fountain With Incredible Views of Rome This Stunning Hotel Offers Pasta Making Classes, Yoga, and Some of the Best Views in RomeFor centuries, the Colosseum has been a powerful symbol of ancient Rome’s gladiatorial combat. Now, for the first time in nearly two millennia, the arena will again come to life with the clash of steel. After sunset, you and your guest will be greeted by a master of ceremonies who will guide you through the network of underground chambers where youâll be outfitted in armor, after which your journey will continue through the torch-lit labyrinth of passageways, retracing the steps of past gladiators.
Learn More
Photo: Airbnb/Christopher Anderson
Youâll learn about the history of the gladiatorial games before watching professionals stage an action-packed combat demonstration. When itâs time to prove your mettle, under the vigilant referee, youâll receive training in the art of combat. Youâll learn how to wield your weapon and master maneuvers to foil your component.

Photo: Airbnb/Christopher Anderson
This Icons experience would make a legendary holiday gift and it’s wonderful excuse to visit Italy in spring. Set a reminder now for November 27, and keep your fingers crossed that youâll be victorious.
Gladiators Are Returning to Rome’s Colosseum – and You Could Be One

I’ve read we’ll miss Russell Crowe’s Maximus in Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II, but it’s been 20-some years since Crowe unleashed hell on ancient Rome, and I think we’ve waited long enough for a predecessor. The blockbuster is screening in theatres from November 22, and in celebration of the riveting sequel (and Denzil Washington), Airbnb and Paramount Pictures have teamed up to offer the wildest Icons experience to date, the chance to enter the Colosseum in Rome after dark and train as a gladiator.
We hope you love the Gladiator Icons Airbnb we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Photo: Airbnb/Daniele Castellaro
Airbnb launched Icons in May. So far, we’ve been offered experiences such as a night in a home inspired by Disney and Pixar’s Up, an overnight stay in the Ferrari Museum, a chance to witness the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games at the Musée d’Orsay, and a slumber party at Prince’s Purple Rain house. These experiences are reasonably priced. They don’t include travel to the destination, but each costs under $100 per person.

Photo: Airbnb/Christopher Anderson
On that note, the new Colosseum experience will cost the lucky chosen 16 (8 guests and their plus one) $0. All you need to do is be ready for combat and request to book one of two three-hour experiences held from May 7 to 8, 2025. Airbnb will launch “booking” from November 27 at 6:00 AM PT to December 9 at 11:59 PM PT. You will be responsible for your flights to Rome and accommodation (the experience does not include an overnight stay in the Colosseum). However, Airbnb lists some epic properties near the Colosseum that are reasonably priced and have views over the amphitheater.
Traveling to Rome? Check out Matador’s Rome accommodations guides: 11 Rome Airbnbs With a Gorgeous View of the Colosseum This Five-Star Historic Hotel Has the Best Location in All of Rome Skip the Crowds in Rome With a Stay at One of These Luxurious Hotels Next to the Colosseum The Finest Airbnbs Near the Trevi Fountain With Incredible Views of Rome This Stunning Hotel Offers Pasta Making Classes, Yoga, and Some of the Best Views in RomeFor centuries, the Colosseum has been a powerful symbol of ancient Rome’s gladiatorial combat. Now, for the first time in nearly two millennia, the arena will again come to life with the clash of steel. After sunset, you and your guest will be greeted by a master of ceremonies who will guide you through the network of underground chambers where you’ll be outfitted in armor, after which your journey will continue through the torch-lit labyrinth of passageways, retracing the steps of past gladiators.
Learn More
Photo: Airbnb/Christopher Anderson
You’ll learn about the history of the gladiatorial games before watching professionals stage an action-packed combat demonstration. When it’s time to prove your mettle, under the vigilant referee, you’ll receive training in the art of combat. You’ll learn how to wield your weapon and master maneuvers to foil your component.

Photo: Airbnb/Christopher Anderson
This Icons experience would make a legendary holiday gift and it’s wonderful excuse to visit Italy in spring. Set a reminder now for November 27, and keep your fingers crossed that you’ll be victorious.
November 12, 2024
Italy Introduces a Tourist Limit to Save the Famous Town of Pompeii From Destruction

In a significant step to preserve one of the world’s most treasured archaeological sites, Italian official announced on November 8 a Pompeii tourism cap of 20,000 visitors per day in the ancient Italian city. The announcement comes from the Pompeii Archaeological Park, prompted by concern that the site’s record-breaking levels of daily tourists could cause deterioration of the ancient town, compromising one of the most well-known archaeological sites in the world.
With daily entry fees ranging from 18 to 22 euros (about $20 to $24), tourism has traditionally supported Pompeii’s preservation efforts. Despite this, officials say tourism has reached unsustainable levels, noting that a single weekend day in 2024 attracted 36,000 visitors. “We are aiming for slow, sustainable, pleasant and non-mass tourism,” said Pompeii Archaeological Park Director Gabriel Zuchtriegel in the announcement, going on to describe the site as “full of cultural jewels to discover.”

Crowds at Pompeii on a busy summer day. Photo: wjarek/Shutterstock
The most immediate effect of overtourism on historical sites like Pompeii is the physical degradation caused by constant foot traffic. Thousands of people traversing ancient pathways every day exerts a collective force that gradually erodes stonework and other architectural features. Even small micro-vibrations from foot traffic can, over time, cause cracks and weaknesses in ancient materials.
In addition to physical erosion, overtourism leads to increased damage from human interaction with artifacts, frescoes, and ancient walls, especially when tourists unknowingly lean against walls or accidentally touch ancient art. Human contact introduces oils, sweat, and residue that can stain and wear down surfaces. And in a small amount of cases, irresponsible and law-breaking tourists have disregarded warnings in attempts to take photos, crossing barriers meant to protect vulnerable areas containing frescos or active research sites. Graffiti is also an ongoing problem in popular tourist sites ranging from Pompeii to American national parks, causing permanent damage to irreplaceable cultural heritage sites.

Many of Pompeii’s fresco art and tiled mosaics are exceptionally well preserved — and exceptionally vulnerable to damage. Photo: Avril Morgan/Shutterstock
Indirect effects of overtourism are also an ongoing concern, including trash, food waste, and air pollution from vehicle emissions. Aside from the impact to the visitor experience caused by seeing litter on a site like Pompeii, pollutants can settle on stone surfaces, accelerating erosion and discoloration. Even drops of sweat with sunscreen in them — something you need to wear during the summer in southern Italy — can leave chemical residue on ancient stones and tiles.
Though preserving the 163-acre historical site is the primary concern, the safety of the city’s visitors is also at risk when tourist numbers swell. Zuchtriegel noted in the announcement that Pompeii’s proximity to an active fault line can pose a threat to visitors, especially when it’s quite crowded, making it difficult to access the site or provide help in case of emergency. With the next Catholic Jubilee year — a critically important religious celebration held every 25 years and centered at the Vatican in Rome — happening in 2025, millions of additional visitors are likely to descend on Pompeii and other famous attractions in the coming year.

The Foro de Pompeya, or Forum of Pompeii. Photo: Balate.Dorin/Shutterstock
Sitting very literally in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, Pompeii was a bustling Roman city until it met a tragic and sudden end in 79 CE. The eruption of Vesuvius buried Pompeii under a thick layer of ash, preserving homes, temples, shops, and even people, creating an archaeological snapshot of what life was like in Rome during the first century. Excavations of the site began in 1788, sparking a global interest in archaeology and ancient Rome.
Among the most notable structures in the ancient city is the Forum, which served as the political, commercial, and religious heart of Pompeii. The Villa of the Mysteries is renowned for its Dionysiac frescoes, depicting scenes related to mysterious rituals associated with Dionysus, the god of wine and pleasure. The House of the Faun, a large and luxurious residence named for its bronze statue of a dancing faun, is also a must-see. It’s where the famous “Alexander Floor Mosaic” was found, depicting a battle of Alexander the Great, now housed in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples.

Photo: balounm/Shutterstock
But perhaps the most unique remains at Pompeii are those at the “Garden of the Fugitives:” victims who attempted to flee the eruption, preserved in their final moments. Now, the site holds plaster casts showing the bodies as they were found, down to the eerie expressions on their faces. Though the human tragedy has long been one of the most notable aspects of the famous explosion, our current-day understanding of what exactly happened in 79 CE is still in the early stages, showing why preserving every detail of the site is important. As recently as late 2024, scientist announced that many of the scenarios long thought to be true based on the placement of bodies are actually completely incorrect. Earlier in 2024, archaeologists announced they’d found a new structure underground in Pompeii, decorated with some of the most expensive materials available at the time.
How the new Pompeii reservation system will work

Tourists at the Villa dei Misteri, or Villa of the Mysteries. Photo: BERK OZDEMIR/Shutterstock
Under this new system, guests will likely want to buy their tickets in advance online, though walk-up tickets will be available if the daily cap hasn’t been met. Tickets will continue to be available on the official Pompeii Archaeological Park website. In summer, Pompeii’s busiest season, visits will be limited to half-day windows, with 15,000 entries available from 9 AM to 12 PM, and 5,000 available from 12 PM to 5:30 PM. Individual guest names will also need to be on every ticket in an effort to eliminate ticket scalping and tour overbooking. The park also announced an expanded shuttle service that will be complimentary for ticket holders, connecting Pompeii to nearby archaeological sites like Stabia, and the Pompeii “suburb” of Oplontis.
This Boutique Hotel Showcases the Cuisine, Culture, and Class of San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is far from an “under the radar” destination in Mexico. Indeed, the city has garnered accolades among expatriates, art lovers, and foodies the world over as “the place to be” when traveling inland in the country. The city of about 175,000 sees more than 400,000 annual visitors, and this has led major hotel operators and boutique accommodations alike to open properties catering to them. None better represents the vision and vibe of San Miguel than Numu Boutique Hotel, part of Hyatt’s The Unbound Collection that opened in February 2023. On a recent trip to the city, I visited to partake in cocktails, a cooking class, and to experience what I’d heard would be the best hospitality in the city – and the hotel lives up to the hype. A stay, a meal, or even just a cooking class from Executive Chef Omar Tovar should be on your list for a trip to San Miguel de Allende.
We hope you love Numu Boutique Hotel! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Numu’s cooking class is a hands-on deep dive into the cuisine of San Miguel de Allende


No hotel in San Miguel de Allende is better at connecting guests to cultural and culinary experiences. I arrived with a multi-generational party of three at the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, NOIA, for a cooking class.a high-end spot with a stunning view overlooking the city’s main cathedral, Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, from just south of the central plaza. We began by squashing garlic, onions, peppers, and more in a molcajete – a traditional mortar and pestle – to make a salsa. guided us through the proper process of grinding the ingredients, adding spice and salt to taste, and finishing with a salsa that looked almost as though it had gone through a blender. It tasted as good as it looked. My mouth burned from the habanero and jalapeno, the dominant flavors atop crisp fried corn tortillas.
After finishing our salsas, Chef Tovar brought out a whole sea bass and began fileting it into serving-size portions. He explained that we’d now be making a ceviche, again each to our own taste. After the fish was properly divvied, we each began by adding salt to the fish on our stations. Then we added lime juice, its acidity “cooking” the fish and turning it white. Cilantro, tomatoes, onion, and, of course, more peppers were added to taste. Sitting down to eat our creations, Chef Tovar explained NOIA’s Mediterranean-fused menu. The dishes, he said, were meant to showcase the global status of San Miguel de Allende while honoring local cooking traditions and ingredients. The restaurant is open to the public, as are the cooking classes, which take place each Thursday. I am by no means a chef, but I left the class gaining an understanding of two dishes very important to the region – and am eager to cook them at home for friends.
Beyond the weekly cooking class, NUMU offers mixology classes focused on traditional Mexican spirits like mezcal and tequila. Yoga and meditation classes happen Friday to Sunday onsite, and the hotel’s onsite restaurant Enrique offers breakfast late – until 2 PM – so guests and neighbors can get in on the famed chilaquiles even if they’ve stayed out a bit too late the night before.
Numu Boutique Hotel embraces the best of San Miguel’s ambiance and hospitality
Photo courtesy Numu Booutique Hotel
Rooms at Numu Boutique Hotel aren’t cheap – they start at around $400 per night. But if you’ve come to San Miguel de Allende to indulge in mindful, artistic resonance, you won’t find a better place to do it. It’s among a trifecta of high-end boutiques south of Centro that capture the elegance and beauty of Guanajuato’s high country – from its outdoorsy, artistic spirit to its spiced-up cuisine – and present it perfectly packaged to guests seeking to escape whatever it is they’ve left behind north, east, west, or south of the border. You can choose a room with a terrace overlooking the hotel’s interior courtyard, but this is San Miguel, so for the best experience choose one overlooking the city’s cobblestoned streets. Rooms are accessed via an outdoor walkway terrace that peeks into the city below, and this is a city that lives on the streets. There’s always something going on, be it a parade, a cultural or religious festival, or a musical performance at Parque Benito Juarez just up the road. You’ll want to feel as connected to all of this as possible.
The rooms themselves are airy and spacious. White marble soaking tubs highlight a bathroom experience built to be a spa in and of itself. Even the smallest rooms are suite-esque, with sitting areas and views of the city and surrounding hills. Rooms feature furniture designed and built by local designers, and local art and design elements are present throughout the hotel.

Photo courtesy Numu Boutique Hotel
Then there’s the rooftop infinity pool. Perhaps nowhere else in San Miguel de Allende offers a better view of the cathedral or city center, or the hillsides flanking the city lined with colorful homes. Among the best aspects of Numu Boutique Hotel is simply walking the property – strolling the outdoor garden, sneaking away for a mezcal cocktail at the lobby bar, and relaxing over a book in the courtyard.
I noted to one of my travel partners while at Numu Boutique Hotel that San Miguel de Allende is where I wish I were when I visit somewhere like Santa Fe, New Mexico, for its bent towards progressive art, design, and comfort. This is what I appreciated most about Numu – it encapsulates each of these elements. Over two visits to the city I’ve yet to feel as “welcomed” as I did here. Now the problem is figuring out how to make it back.
Japan Is Famous For Food, and This Oft-Overlooked Region Has Some of the Best.

When hungry travelers set their sights and appetites on Japan, it’s usually Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto at the top of their lists. But visitors often overlook one of the country’s greatest culinary regions: Hokkaido.
Sitting off the coast of the main island of Honshu, Japan’s second-biggest island is usually talked up for its world-class skiing and snowboarding. But it’s also Japan’s bread basket, serving as a farming, agriculture, and livestock hub home to nearly a quarter of the island nation’s farmable land. Surrounded by cold ocean water, even the seafood in Hokkaido is a cut above the rest – quite the feat in seafood-obsessed Japan. For chefs and diners alike, it’s a locavore paradise.

Vendors selling Hokkaido crabs at the Sapporo Snow Festival. Photo: icosha/Shutterstock
“The excellence and freshness of dairy and seafood, especially, [in Hokkaido] is distinguished, even within Japan,” says Keisuke Kobayashi, a born-and-raised Hokkaido chef who owns Yoroshiku, a Japanese restaurant in Seattle serving traditional Hokkaido-style cuisine.
Aside from being the agricultural heartland of Japan, Hokkaido’s geographic isolation from the rest of the country and mix of culinary influences from other cultures has also created a food culture distinct from the rest of Japan. Hokkaido’s cold climate has historically made rice cultivation more difficult, and other ingredients like butter, cheese, and potatoes are more heavily featured in Hokkaido cuisine. It’s also one of the few places in the world to try traditional, rare foods from the Indigenous Ainu people, including bear.
With its cornucopia of fresh ingredients and melting pot of cuisines, Hokkaido is one of the best places to both explore Japan’s culinary variety, and taste its far-north terroir.
Food in Hokkaido: the big three
Shokupan bread, also called milk bread. Photo: thongyord/Shutterstock
Hokkaido’s flat lands, fertile soil, and distinct four-season climate are ideal for growing crops. Agriculture in Hokkaido may date as far back as the Jōmon period (14,000 to 300 BCE), with early hunter-gatherers growing millet and other hardy crops to supplement hunting, fishing, and gathering. But things started to change in the mid-1800s at the dawn of the Meiji era. Modern agriculture and dairy farming came to the island with the Treaty of Kanagawa, which opened Hokkaido’s Hakodate port to outside traders.
Today, Hokkaido produces more than 50 percent of Japan’s dairy, with pasture-raised cows, reared on high-quality diets of grass and grains to produce creamy, smooth milk for butter, cheese, soft-serve ice cream, and fluffy shokupan milk bread — and produces the majority of Japan’s potatoes, beef, soybeans, and wheat. Hokkaido is also where Japan’s massive (and expensive) Yubari King melons come from; a pair sold for $45,000 in 2019.

A raw sea urchin and salmon roe bowl. Photo: thongyord/Shutterstock
Even though excellent seafood is a constant around Japan, Hokkaido’s offerings are especially prized for their freshness and flavor. Thanks to its location at the crossroads of the Sea of Japan, the Pacific Ocean, and the Sea of Okhotsk, marine flora and fauna like abalone, scallops, shrimp, and kombu kelp are kept satiated by a constant flow of plankton-rich water. Snow, red king, and horsehair crabs thrive in Hokkaido, growing to massive, meaty sizes. Local seafood dishes like kaisen-don rice bowls celebrate the aquatic abundance with colorful arrangements of sea urchins, roe, and marble-y salmon slices, sourced from the salmon runs on Hokkaido’s northeastern Shiretoko Peninsula and the Nemuro Strait.
“Even kaizen-sushi (conveyer belt sushi) [here] is recognized as higher quality than formal sushi restaurants in other parts of Japan,” says Kobayashi.
What’s on the menu?
Jingisukan, or grilled mutton. Photo: Yusei/Shutterstock
Cut off from the main island of Honshu by the Tsugaru Strait, Hokkaido’s remoteness from other parts of the country and mix of culinary influences from the Ainu People, China, Western nations, and immigrants from other parts of Japan all played a role in turning Hokkaido cuisine into the melting pot it is today.
“Hokkaido was able to innovate and develop new and unique dishes such as soup curry due to its diversity of residents, as well as reduced pressure to conform with deep tradition as enforced in other parts of Japan,” explains Kobayashi.
Some popular dishes, like jingisukan (grilled mutton), draw inspiration from the food traditions of northeastern China, while jibie (wild-game dishes) harken back to pre-Meiji era methods of food production. Ainu people have traditionally practiced hunting methods passed down over centuries, often cooking with wild game like sika deer and brown bears.
To counter its frigid, snowy winters, soups, stews, and brothy dishes like soup curry are all core parts of the Hokkaido diet. But with an estimated 1,200-plus ramen shops — more than anywhere in the country other than Tokyo – Hokkaido especially loves its noodles. Part of that is pride: Hokkaido is supposedly where Japanese ramen was first created, when a restaurant in Hakodate served a dish inspired by Chinese soba noodles, in 1884.

Seafood ramen is a popular food in Hokkaido. Photo: Koenig_K/Shutterstock
But the other part is that it’s the birthplace of miso ramen, one of the most popular ramen styles in the world. It was invented in the mid-1900s by Morito Omiya at his Sapporo ramen shop Aji no Sanpei, when he added miso paste and Hokkaido-born toppings like sweetcorn, pats of butter, and seafood to pork broth. The remote locations of other towns on Hokkaido also bore their own unique ramen styles, with chefs in the mountainous city of Asahikawa adding insulating layers of lard to their shoyu (soy sauce-based) broths for extra warmth in the wintertime, and coastal Hakodate giving a nod to its Chinese trading history and seaside setting with silky, clear shio (salt) broths.
And that’s barely getting to the bottom of the ramen bowl, as other shops and cities have created riffs on ramen, like spicy miso ramen or Muroran curry ramen.
Kanpai! Cheers to Hokkaido whisky and beer
Photo: Edu Snacker/Shutterstock
Hokkaido’s fertile land and clean water have also made it one of Japan’s best drinks destinations. Since cultivation isn’t as common as in other parts of Japan, rice based-sake has taken a backseat to other types of beverages like gin, potato shochu, and even natural wine. But whisky and beer are king.
Not only does Hokkaido produce plenty of top-tier grains for beer and whisky, but two pioneers of the local distilling and brewing industries — Masataka Taketsuru, the father of Japanese whisky, and Seibei Nakagawa, Japan’s first German-trained brewmaster — both found Hokkaido’s climate to be perfect for their crafts.
For Taketsuru, who studied whisky making in Scotland and worked at the legendary Suntory Yamazaki Distillery, Hokkaido reminded him of the Scottish Highlands, leading him to found his own distillery, Nikka Whisky, in 1934. For beermaker Nakagawa, Hokkaido’s colder temperatures were the ideal place to practice German cold-brewing techniques at Sapporo Brewery, which helped launch Japan’s beer industry in 1876.

The Sapporo Museum offers tours and tastings. Photo: Pixel Wanderer/Shutterstock
Beer, in particular, is Hokkaido’s beverage of choice. In addition to being the home of Sapporo (Japan’s oldest beer brand), the island has a thriving craft brewing scene, with microbreweries like Hokkaido Brewing and Moon Sun Brewing making German-style brews, fruity lagers made with locally grown fruit like yuzu, and thirst-quenching ales and IPAs.
Where to sample food in Hokkaido
Nijo Market in Sapporo. Photo: AKMS studio/Shutterstock
As the island’s capital, Sapporo is a great place to kick off a Hokkaido food tour. You can’t visit without trying a bowl of miso ramen at the place that started it all, Aji no Sanpei, before tasting your way through different variations at Ganso Sapporo Ramen Yokocho, a narrow alley of 17 shops that’s been around since the 1950s. You can wander past colossal crabs at seafood markets like Nijo Market and Curb Market before sampling items like fresh donburi bowls or sashimi at the on-site izakayas. At the Umizora No Haru izakaya, you can taste traditional Ainu dishes like venison, duck, salmon, and bear, and if you’re a beer fan, you’ll want to wash it all down with a flight or pint at the Sapporo Beer Museum.

Asahikawa Ramen Village. Photo: retirementbonus/Shutterstock
Outside of Sapporo, the port city of Otaru is chock-full of breweries, distilleries, and specialty food shops along its quaint canals. If you have an extra hour or two, pop in at the Nikka Whisky Distillery in Yoichi for a tasting or tour. If you’re en route to Asahikawa, pause at the Iwase Dairy Farm for gelato before trying regional ramen variations at Asahikawa Ramen Village. At the Hokkaidian Homestead near Lake Toya, you can learn how to make traditional island dishes from seasonal ingredients, ranging from deserts to main courses.
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Kobayashi’s Seattle restaurant Yoroshiku is highly rated and always popular, but Hokkaido cuisine has found its way across the Pacific to many major US cities. Renowned Asahikawa ramen shop Ramen Santouka has locations in the Boston and Seattle areas, and Akahoshi Ramen dishes up lard-y miso ramen in Chicago. At Indigo Cow in Seattle and Los Angeles, you sample Hokkaido’s famous dairy in creamy soft-serve ice cream swirls.
This NorCal Wine Country Hotel Is a Groovy and Glamorous Retro Getaway

In the center of a quiet Santa Rosa neighborhood, a feels like its own little isolated slice of paradise in a bustling California wine country region. Pulling the car under the glossy but vibrant wood-paneled canopy of the porte cochere is like a glamorous, “Mad Men-esque” experience. Arriving at The Flamingo Resort & Spa, I almost expected to see Don and Betty Draper sipping an expensive glass of wine behind the resort’s sleek glass walls while on their own Wine Country getaway.
Of course, that thought wasn’t entirely fantastical. Back in its heyday, this hotel did draw big-name celebrities and the wealthiest of world travelers to enjoy the privacy and luxury of the Flamingo’s oversized pool and flourishing courtyard spaces. It’s name may have had something to do with that. This property was named after the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas (sidenote: Vegas’ Flamingo is one of my personal favorite properties in the world just for its awesome vibes, iconic history, and unparalleled location on The Strip) in an effort to draw tourists and increase interest to growing attractions in the Santa Rosa area like the wineries that are now so legendary. Today, it’s admittedly a bit more approachable than the Hollywood elite may prefer but still preserves its sense of serenity and “authentic vintage chic” atmosphere.
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To enter the resort, you’ll step through the art-deco entryway into the lobby, where a noisy (in a good way) mural immediately draws the eye and makes the space feel like a tropical oasis. The property’s signature colors — primarily hot pink — politely scream “playful,” while the refined, retro interiors and existing mid-century-modern exterior architecture that can be seen throughout the rest of the property balance out the spirit with a sense of California-casual relaxation.
You can’t miss the original neon sign that’s still standing today in the form of a tall, three-sided pylon with metal letters and neon backlighting spelled out “Flamingo,” topped by a stylized flamingo. It was designated by The City of Santa Rosa as a local landmark in 1997.
We hope you love the Flamingo Resort & Spa! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
The Flamingo Resort & Spa offers unique wine country accommodations
Photo courtesy Flamingo Resort & Spa
The whole resort is set on a vibrantly lush, uniquely wheel-shaped 10-acre campus with plant life galore, giving it a sense you’re in the jungle even though you’re just minutes away from some of the world’s most famous vineyards.
And the “wheel-spoke” design of the hotel is special in itself as it’s said to be one of only three of its kind known to have been designed by accomplished master architect Homer Rissman, in addition to the Las Vegas Hacienda in 1956 and the Palm Springs Riviera in 1959. But only the Flamingo and Riviera have survived the test of time and are still here, today.
What I enjoyed, and thought was unique about this property, is that even though it’s technically in “wine country,” it wasn’t held to just one type of visitor on-site. There were families, a group of young women who appeared to be spending the night while they were in town for some sort of athletic competition, there were couples on a romantic getaway, and a few groups of women who appeared to be here on a rejuvenating gals’ wine country escape.
Open-air outdoor lounging spaces are plentiful around the property (this is California, after all — it’s almost essential to take advantage of the nearly flawless year-round weather, even in the chillier autumn and winter evenings of NorCal).
Accommodations at The Flamingo Resort & Spa
Photo courtesy Flamingo Resort & Spa
At the Flamingo Resort & Spa, guest accommodations are referred to as “nests” instead of “guest rooms” — and it’s not just to be cutesy. These cozy sleeping spaces really do emit some super groovy vibes, but are not overdone. The airy, bright accommodations feel like they’re a world away from the hustle of the outside world, as if you’re on your own little getaway on-site — while already on vacation (hopefully).
Four separate hotel wings house the rooms which feature a modern, mid-century décor and luxurious amenities that offer a respite from the wine country adventures outside. Large windows allow plentiful natural light to filter into the spacious rooms, where plush, crisp beds beckon to guests with a tempting invitation to relax.
The teak, brass, and gold finishes and sleek furnishings blend with wooden furniture and accents that create a tasteful sense of tranquility. Artwork in the rooms feels tasteful and evocative of a simpler era and is meant to pay homage to the history of the hotel.
The large flatscreen TVs and Bluetooth radio systems make it tempting to just spend a night “in” your nest — but the strong allure of Sonoma’s world-renowned dining and drinking scene might be enough to inspire you to fly on a “night out.” There are a few variations in room types, with some special selections being “pool view” or “pet-friendly” options, but no matter what, you’re set up well for a solid night’s sleep.
Dining, drinking, and amenities at the Flamingo Resort & Spa
Photo courtesy Flamingo Resort & Spa
At the Lazeaway Club restaurant, dine poolside with a menu of Cal-Pacific cuisine in an open, outdoor area outfitted with natural-feeling wooden tables, a real wooden roof, and benches and cushioned chairs below a canopy of twinkling string lights. Or, huddle on a bohemian wicker chair around one of the luxe fire pits. There’s also a cozy indoor dining space for those who want to stay extra cozy. Alternatively, lounge al fresco and order a bite and a beverage next to the pool with the Wild Bird poolside dining menu.
One of the coolest amenities is that, as a guest of the resort, visitors can take advantage of an exclusive “Flamingo Flights” program hosting complimentary wine tastings at select local wineries across the Sonoma and Napa Valley region. You’ll also have access to the enormous fitness center and health club space that’s adjacent to the property, including entry to the group fitness classes and daily meditation and yoga classes. There’s even a sauna, steam room, hot tub, three tennis courts, and a 25-meter lap pool.
This property preserves its natural sense of mid-century cool with an added splash of taste and color
Photo courtesy Flamingo Resort & Spa
The Flamingo Resort & Spa is a fantastic place to set as home base while exploring Santa Rosa and Wine County. While you’re in town, don’t miss visiting local attractions like wine tasting at popular favorite spots like La Crema (their chardonnay is my absolute favorite) or Matanzas Creek, which has a fabulous reputation for Sauvignon Blancs and Merlots.
Grab a bite at Mitote Food Park (the word “Mitote” comes from the ancient Nahuatl language meaning a “party” or “gathering”), which serves some of the most delicious, authentic Mexican regional cuisines all in one place. Russian River Brewing Company’s downtown Santa Rosa brewpub location is a “can’t-miss” attraction in the area. It’s best known for its internationally famous, once-a-year brew “Pliny the Younger,” for which folks travel hundreds of miles and spend many hours camped outside every February to celebrate its limited annual release. But this renowned brewery creates dozens of other delightful craft concoctions beer enthusiasts must try while in town.
Or, for a different type of brew, visit Land + Water Coffee Roasters, which serves tasty specialty coffee drinks and teas in a quaint and cozy but minimalist feeling shop.
Literature lovers will enjoy spending time at Copperfield Books, which is a smart, feeling local bookstore chain (there are nine locations in Sonoma, Napa, and Marin County) and a great place to go book hunting.
The 11 Best Small Mountain Towns in The US to Visit in 2025


Mountain towns are the base point to the great outdoors for many people, and are crucial to the $560-plus billion outdoor recreation industry in the United States. Polished resort towns like Aspen and Park City tend to hog most of the all-season glory, not to mention the crowds. Often, however, there are charming, overlooked mountain towns not far from the big-name destinations — and they tend to make better home-away-from-home hubs if you prefer unpretentious vibes and a cheeseburger that won’t cost a half-day’s pay.
These 11 small mountain towns in the US all fit that description. None have a year-round population of more than 10,000 people, and all have easy access to multiple types of outdoor recreation. What’s more, there’s the underlying history (often related to mining) that make these towns iconic and important pieces of America’s history.
Rather than waiting in long lift lines or struggling to park at crowded trail heads, plan a trip to one of these epic small mountain towns across the country.
Entries are in no particular order. Picks were chosen and written by Katie Scott Aiton, Alex Bresler, Suzie Dundas, and Tim Wenger.
Bisbee, Arizona Population: 5,000Why it’s notable: A historic (and haunted) mining town that’s never very crowdedWhen to visit: Any season but summer — it’s in the Arizona desert and many businesses close in peak heatType of traveler who will love this town: Quirky history buffs who love a good story
Bisbee, a small Arizona town about 30 minutes south of the Wild West town of Tombstone, reflects the rise and fall of the American mining boom. It was a bustling and wealthy copper town after metal deposits were discovered here in 1877. While the mines have closed, it still looks much the same as it did back then with Victorian-era buildings, steep hillsides, and staircases connecting narrow streets. Walking through its winding alleys feels like stepping into a living museum.
Today, Bisbee attracts artists, writers, and eccentrics, creating an atmosphere that’s relaxed yet slightly surreal. The Queen Mine offers tours led by former miners that dig into the town’s mining heritage, local galleries and antique shops showcase Bisbee’s creative side, and a short hike up to Castle Rock or along the “Bisbee 1000” will provide sweeping views of the gorgeous surrounding desert. Bisbee also isn’t afraid to lean into its spookier historical history, with evening ghost tours, a “seance room”, and the Copper Queen Hotel, which goes so far as to advertise its many ghosts.
Dining in Bisbee is unpretentious, with cafes, bakeries, and pubs that feel rooted in the community, plus a local brewery. Despite the tourist attractions, it isn’t very touristed, and in my experience Bisbee rarely feels crowded or inauthentic. — Suzie Dundas
Gardiner, Montana Population: 744Why it’s notable: A tiny mountain town literally steps from the world’s first national parkWhen to visit: Year-round, though the sole focus in winter is park wildlife watchingType of traveler who will love this town: Wildlife watchers and national park buffsGardiner sits just outside of Yellowstone National Park’s northern entrance. This small town carries a rugged, no-frills charm that feels grounded in the area’s wild surroundings and deep history with the park. As Yellowstone’s only year-round gateway, Gardiner is both quiet and well-connected, drawing travelers who appreciate the proximity but want smaller crowds than those around Jackson or West Yellowstone.
In town, you’ll find locally owned cafes, outfitters, and shops, all with a welcoming feel and strong ties to the community. Gardiner’s access to Yellowstone provides opportunities for wildlife watching, hiking, and river trips, with the Yellowstone River flowing through town. While wildlife watching in the park’s northern reaches is a popular draw (specially with wolves in winter), there’s plenty to do nearby aside from the park. Whitewater rafting and fly fishing along nearby rivers is quite popular, and the historic resort of Chico Hot Springs is just 30 minutes away for a quick post-hike soak. Outdoors types may want to add a day or two to hike in the nearby Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, with natural wonders ranging from alpine lakes to snow-white mountain goats to waterfalls reached via accessible, family-friendly hikes. — Suzie Dundas
Mount Shasta, California Population: 3,179Why it’s notable: An open-minded (and still affordable) mountain town getawayWhen to visit: Late March through early June for wildflowers and waterfalls, June and July to climb Mount Shasta and see solstices and equinoxes for metaphysical experiencesType of traveler who will love this town: Mountain travelers who love California but hate the crowds and costs of TahoeMount Shasta towers over its namesake town, drawing visitors for both its striking natural beauty and the quirky character of the surrounding community. It intertwines rugged outdoor adventure with a sense of mysticism that has long drawn spiritual seekers and explorers alike. You’ll likely hear visitors and locals alike talking about the town’s “vortex” energy that seems to emanate from the peak, giving this mountain town a vibe that’s both grounded and otherworldly. That means you can hike remote alpine trails by day and unwind in crystal shops or mineral springs by evening.
The mountain itself offers popular hiking routes like the relaxed Bunny Flat Trailhead to Avalanche Gulch, or spring wildflower hikes through Panter Meadow. In the winter, there’s plenty of snowshoeing around the area, unless you want to downhill ski at the never-crowded Mount Shasta Ski Park instead. Then there’s the mountain bikers who may or may not be participating in the Mount Shasta Enduro, which has 635 acres of skiable terrain when it snows, and are likely to be spotted at the hybrid taproom and bike shop Deadwood Supply. The town of Mount Shasta complements the outdoor experience with a blend of hiking shops, crystal stores, and cafes like Yaks Shack. Local favorites like the Berryvale Grocery and Cafe and Seven Suns Coffee offer a cozy stop after a day on the trails, rounding out the area’s mix of rugged beauty and small-town charm. It’s also affordable for a range of visitors, whether you want a basic cabin at a KOA, prefer a historic B&B, or want to stay in a modern alpine chalet.
Just as much as Mount Shasta is known for its access to the outdoors, the sacred town is said to hold numerous energy vortexes and represent Earth’s root chakra, which is said to have a grounding effect on visitors. There are almost as many crystal shops and energy healers in town as there are bars and burger joints, as well as a handful of operators that host spiritual tours and retreats. Visitors can meander through the Gateway Peace Garden to introduce themselves to this vibe. A different version of Mount Shasta side steps both extremes, making space for family vacationers, road-trippers, and anyone else who wants to split their time between outdoor excursions and romps through town. Those visitors can spend their days on gentle waterfall hikes, swimming or fishing at Castle Crags State Park, pursuing the local art galleries, or perhaps taking a short drive to the Dunsmuir Railroad Museum and Amtrak Depot. Whatever type of mountain town you want, Mount Shasta can be that for you. — Suzie Dundas and Alex Bresler
Graeagle, California Population: 400Why it’s notable: A slice of the High Sierras that you barely have to shareWhen to visit: March and April for sunny, last-of-the-season winter sports; June, August, or September for not-too-hot summer recreationType of traveler who will love this town: Hikers, mountain bikers, unpluggersFor the past couple of years, my friends and I have taken a Memorial Day trip to Graeagle, a barely-there town in the High Sierras with a permanent population of about 400 people. Graeagle feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere — and belongs to a region known as the Lost Sierra, to be fair — but it’s just an hour west of Reno and 2.5 hours from Sacramento.
Our trips typically go like this: We plan a big group hike (or snowshoe, depending on the year) in Plumas National Forest on the first day. The next day, we divide and conquer: the mountain bikers might ride locally or commute to Downieville about an hour away, the golfers might head to the 18-hole Graeagle Meadows Golf Course, the hikers might pick another wilderness area like Plumas-Eureka State Park to traverse, and anyone looking for a mellow activity might browse the few shops on the main road that runs through town and grab some famous (among us, at least) soft serve at Graeagle Mountain Frostee. In the afternoon, we’ll all link back up and play a few rounds of pickleball at the community courts before returning to our cabin cluster for patio cocktails, a big family-style dinner, and some sort of game night.
For a group of Bay Area-based friends who spend a lot of time in the Sierras for both summer and winter sports, Graeagle promises something that many of Northern California’s mountain towns do not: a genuine feeling of getting off the very, very well-trodden path. — Alex Bresler
Hood River, Oregon Population: 8,346Why it’s notable: The epicenter of adventure in the Columbia River GorgeWhen to visit: November through April for ski season, June through September for windsurfing and water sportsType of traveler who will love this town: Windsurfers and lovers of all things artisanHood River sits at the base of Mount Hood, Oregon’s tallest peak, quietly ticking all the boxes of a quintessential mountain town from its perch on the Columbia River. Winter sees Mount Hood Meadows, one of Oregon’s largest ski resorts, swell with mostly local skiers and snowboarders. In the warmer months, hikers and bikers descend on the Cascade Mountains trails, while the Columbia River Gorge floods with windsurfers and kiteboarders. Some go so far as to call Hood River the “windsurfing capital of the world,” owing to its strong and consistent winds.
Hood River also delivers on its promise of a quintessential mountain-town experience with its many craft breweries, wineries, and cideries, not to mention its robust agricultural scene. Farm hop the Hood River Valley’s 35-mile Fruit Loop to sample the region’s pears, apples, and cherries straight from the farmstand, and pop by the year-round Hood River Farmers Market to wander the stalls for artisanal goodies to bring back home with you. — Alex Bresler
Silverton, Colorado Population: 713Why it’s notable: One of the few Colorado ski towns not overrun by traffic and high pricesWhen to visit: January through April for winter activities, June through September for summer activities and the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge RailroadType of traveler who will love this town: Hardcore skiers and snowboarders, river rats, hikers, mountain bikers, history buffsI went to school at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado, and first made the one-hour trek over Molas and Coal Bank Passes to Silverton my first full winter in town. I’ve since been back some three dozen or more times, even after moving away from the San Juan Mountains. It’s a backcountry skier’s paradise, with trailheads lining both those passes and Red Mountain Pass heading north toward Ouray. Of course, there’s no need to even leave Silverton to do a ski tour – you can simply skin up Kendall Mountain right from the edge of town. Then there’s the legendary, and extreme, Silverton Mountain ski area, a once-rickety, old-lift haunt where workers won’t let you on the chair without avalanche gear. Come prepared to get rowdy, or be ready to stay in the parking lot nursing a can of PBR.
In summer, the town is the northern terminus of the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, but for the purpose of active adventure, there’s no better place in western Colorado to base yourself. Mountain biking, hiking, camping, and a deep dive into the town’s mining history are all readily available. When it’s apres time, head into Avalanche Brewing Company for craft brew and pizzas or The Shady Lady to experience old-time mountain lore. Stay at Smedley’s Suites and enjoy free soaking at the Shangri-La Soaking Pools downstairs. There’s no better way to unwind after a long day of exploration. — Tim Wenger
Huntsville, Utah Population: 595Why it’s notable: Historic pub and easy access to great, lift-line-free skiingWhen to visit: December through March for skiing, June through September for summer activitiesType of traveler who will love this town: Outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate a historic dive barLegend has it the Shooting Star Saloon in Huntsville served right on through Prohibition, staring tee-totaling regulators in the face with a middle finger raised. It’s the state’s oldest bar, and its IDGAF attitude underwrites the rugged spirit of the Wasatch. Huntsville is tiny, at least when compared to resort towns like Park City, but its 595 residents enjoy incredible access to the high country.
Snowbasin ski resort is up the road, with Powder Mountain not much farther in the other direction. What makes Huntsville stand out, however, is that it’s right on the shoreline of Pineview Reservoir, meaning on-water activities are just as much a part of the lifestyle here as the on-mountain counterparts. Getting to Huntsville or its surrounding trailheads from Salt Lake City International Airport takes under an hour, and if you’re coming from Ogden, cut that drive time in half. If you’re a fan of both the Old West and high-altitude recreating, there’s no better place to go. — Tim Wenger
Bellaire, Michigan Population: 1,038Why it’s notable: Few towns in the US offer such easy access to both mountain and water sportsWhen to visit: June through September for on-water activities and a bustling town scene, December through March for Midwest skiing and small town charmType of traveler who will love this town: Midwesterners on a road trip, golfers, mountain bikersSure, some might scoff at the idea of a mountain town in Michigan, but hear me out. Northern Michigan is the most underrated outdoor recreation hotspot in the US, and no small town better exemplifies this than Bellaire. Less than an hour from Traverse City and its airport, Bellaire and its Victorian charm is to Michigan what Interlaken is to Switzerland – not just because of the lakes on either side of it, but because Bellaire is the hub town for Shanty Creek Resort’s multiple ski hills, half a dozen top-tier golf courses, and some of Michigan’s best hiking and biking trails.
In the summer, mountain bike the Glacial Hills Trails, get out for a hike along the shores of Torch Lake or Grass River (or Glacial Hills), and don’t forget to spend some time on the water – paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking, fishing, and more are easily accessed. Shanty Creek offers three golf courses open through fall, and summer is when this area really pops off. No matter your activity of choice, round out the day with a pint and a pizza at Shorts Brewing Company. — Tim Wenger
Hamilton, Montana Population: 5,000Why it’s notable:Small regional hub for adventure with convenient road or air accessWhen to visit: June through September for hiking and biking, July and August for fly fishing, December through March for skiing at Lost Trail Ski AreaType of traveler who will love this town: Those who want an escape from hectic resort towns, and those who love wide-open trails with no one else in sightI first drove through Hamilton en route to Lost Trail Ski Area from Missoula in 2020. The town immediately struck me as a place I’d love to check out, not least because the Bitterroot Mountains tower about it like a beacon call to adventure. On my way back, I stopped. Hamilton is located in western Montana surrounded by the ranches and farms of the beautiful Bitterroot Valley, and the community is incredibly friendly. Fly fishing on the Bitterroot River is incredible, I was told, and there are many local fly shops in the area as well as outfitters. Culturally, Hamilton is home to the Daly Mansion, built in the late 1800s for Marcus Daly, who is among the most notorious of Montana’s “Copper Kings.” Despite being so small, the town has a great local beer scene, headlined by Bitter Root Brewing and Higherground Brewing, along with delicious restaurants like Ember. It’s also home to Ravalli County Airport, which means you can land and be at a trailhead within an hour. — Tim Wenger
Girdwood, Alaska Population: 2,500Why it’s notable: Exceptional skiing and snowboarding 40 minutes south of AnchorageWhen to visit: January through April for winter activities, June through September for summer activitiesType of traveler who will love this town: Hardcore skiers and snowboarders, fishing enthusiasts, hikers, mountain bikers, and gold prospectorsPeople traveling to Alaska often have to go through Anchorage, the state’s largest city. Despite being home to more than 280,000 people, Anchorage feels like a small town with wildlife, outdoor recreation, and world-class fishing minutes from downtown. But if you’d like to escape any trace of city life, the picturesque mountain town of Girdwood is just 40 miles south.
For winter sports enthusiasts, Girdwood means world-class skiing and snowboarding at Mount Alyeska. The area has over 2,500 acres of skiable terrain ranging from gentle slopes to steep, challenging runs. Girdwood’s proximity to Anchorage, its diverse terrain, and abundant snowfall makes it the place to be come winter. You can also take the scenic tram ride to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the Chugach Mountains, Turnagain Arm, and the surrounding wilderness.
As with most snow destinations, come summer, there’s an exceptional warm weather outdoor scene. The Chugach National Forest, which surrounds Girdwood and the nearby rivers, provide endless opportunities for trekking, biking, and fishing for salmon, rainbow trout, and Dolly Varden – a trout found from the British Columbia Coast to the Alaska Peninsula. Not far from Girdwood (a 10-minute drive), you can even pan for a nugget of gold at Crow Creek Gold Mine. — Katie Scott Aiton
Alpine, Texas Population: 6,039Why it’s notable: A thriving small-town country music scene and outstanding stargazing opportunitiesWhen to visit: Throughout the year, but in November the Alpine ArtWalk has a calendar of live music and art events worth planning a trip aroundType of traveler who will love this town: Country music fans, history buffs, art aficionadosOne of the things I love most about visiting a small town is that you don’t have to plan an elaborate itinerary. You can slow down, take a beat, and the opportunity to have a few days without a packed schedule. If Texas is calling, you’re spoilt for choice for small-town Americana. The town of Alpine sits on a plateau in the Chihuahua Desert, with the Davis Mountains to the north and the Chisos range to the south.
Outdoor music performances are held almost every night at The Ritchey, a historic saloon with a beer garden housed in the oldest commercial structure in town. But the first thing you should do before a Morgan Wallen cover has you slow dancing with a handsome Alpine local is hike or bike to the top of Hancock Hill. Here, you’ll be gifted panoramic views over the town and valley. It’s especially nice at sunset. Due to the elevation of Alpine and exceptionally low levels of light pollution, it’s also a great place to go stargazing. It’s in the heart of Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve, the largest protected dark sky area on Earth. During the day, stroll downtown (a designated Cultural Arts District) to browse galleries, pick up a local title at the independent bookstore Front Street Books, and take in beautiful, colorful street murals before chowing down on cowboy cuisine on the patio at the restaurant Reata, or swing by Cow Dog, a local food truck for a hot dog topped with chili and fried onions. If your visit is timed well, the Alpine ArtWalk takes place in November, promising free art exhibits, live music and a street party. – Katie Scott Aiton
You Can Raft With Santa and His Elves Near the Hoover Dam This Year

There’s no shortage of Santa experiences that are fun for the whole family. The truly ambitious can go to Rovaniemi, Finland — the alleged home of St. Nick. Or stay closer to home and see the man in red at a theme park or during one of the many great Christmas markets across the United States. Among all of the options, seeing the jolly fellow on the water, and in decidedly warmer weather than the North Pole, stands out.
Lake Mead Mohave Adventures is bringing back its “Rafting with Santa” experience with Hoover Dam Rafting Adventures. The motor-assisted raft takes off near the base of the dam and follows 12 miles of the Colorado River for about three hours. At the helm is the jolly man himself (along with some helpers).
The Santa rafting tours run from December 12 through 15, and December 18 through 22. Santa’s beard is far whiter than the rapids on the route, which follows a gentle stretch that’s free of any churning white water. Santa’s passengers get a ride to the raft from the Lake Mead RV Village by one of his elves, and receive gifts and a boxed picnic lunch. The requisite cookies, hot chocolate, and Christmas music will help you get in the spirit regardless of the lack of snow.

Photo: Hoover Dam Rafting Adventures
It’s more than just holiday cheer on offer. Santa and his helpers will also guide guests through the history of the area, the local wildlife, and the Black Canyon.
Children four and under can get in on the magic for free, though tickets for those five to 15 cost $110, and 16 years or older tickets cost $125 (plus the $15 National Park entrance fee). Travelers coming in from Las Vegas can purchase round-trip transportation from major hotels for $69 per person. Interested travelers can making bookings through the Hoover Dam Rafting Adventures site.
November 11, 2024
Camera Roll: a 3-Day UTV Adventure in Southern Utah and the Arizona Strip

For most of my life, I’ve been a city person. New York City, Tokyo, Jakarta, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Jeddah, Bangkok — these are all places I’ve called home at some point. But nobody knows as well as a city person that big, busy metropolises can get draining after a while. That’s why I was so tempted by an October visit to the flip side: Southern Utah and the Grand Canyon.
With schools in full swing, and the Colorado River rafting season coming to a close, the summer crowds have mostly tapered off in October. In return for avoiding peak season, a fall visit to Southern Utah and Northern Arizona means milder weather, lower costs, and, in my experience, miles and miles of unobstructed off-road adventuring.
Indeed, with Uncharted Society, a Montreal-based adventure tour company, and ATV Adventures, an adventure tour outfitter in Hurricane, Utah, this city dweller experienced three days of slaloming between Hurricane and Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument.

My off-roading adventure began with a layover in St. George, Southern Utah’s biggest urbanized section, which has nonstop flights to St. George Regional Airport (SGU) from cities like Los Angeles, Denver, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, and, seasonally, Dallas-Fort Worth. As part of our exploration of some of the country’s (and world’s) most beautiful terrain, we spent some time searching for whoop-de-dos (three-foot-tall bumps) in our UTVs in St. George and paused to admire the austere beauty of Warner Valley. Photo: Jonathan DeLise

I was slightly nervous before setting off on my UTV adventure since this was the one time this year that I would have driven. But my tour guides were professional, clearly knew their way around both the vehicles and the territory, and even put up with my lead foot … from time to time. Although I’d never used any of these vehicles before, it was just like driving a car — only without a windshield. (On that note, remember to protect your nose and ears.) Photo: Jonathan DeLise

In Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument, it’s hard not to be awed by the variegated layers of rocks and numerous species of cacti present throughout the Arizona Strip, which is the part of the state located north of the Colorado River. This is one of many views for the record books: the Colorado River snaking through a horseshoe bend of the Grand Canyon in Whitmore Canyon. Photo: Jonathan DeLise

I dare you to guess why this place is called Echo Canyon. Photo: Jonathan DeLise

Hiking over the lava fields of the Uinkaret Plateau, north of the Grand Canyon, I finally made it to the Nampaweap petroglyphs. Believed to be aged between 1,500 and 10,000 years old, this rock art site comprises one of the largest collections of petroglyphs in the region. The Southern Paiute tribe, best known for basket weaving, are believed to have been the authors. I just wish there was a translator app. Photo: Jonathan DeLise

Bar 10 Ranch, an active cattle ranch covering more than 200,000 acres close to Mt. Trumbull, Arizona, has two types of accommodations: a lodge and individual Conestoga wagons. Despite the secluded address, there are a couple of different ways to get there. Besides driving two to three hours from St. George, there’s a short paved landing strip for private and scenic planes just a few minutes away at Whitmore International Airport. Once there, you’ll find tons of activities and amenities, including a pool table, skeet shooting, tetherball, basketball and tennis, horseback riding, helicopter tours, nature trails, and ATVs to rent. Photo: Uncharted Society

The Heatons, who founded the Bar 10 Ranch in the early 1970s, originally lived with their 10 children in a compact wooden shed that frequently burned down. You can pay homage to their residence, farm, and sole outhouse, as well as their small vegetable garden in which the same potato plant flowers to this day. Worth visiting nearby is the Mt. Trumbull schoolhouse, a 2001 replica of the original 1910s structure, complete with period memorabilia. At its peak in the 1920s and 1930s, Mt. Trumbull had a population of roughly 250 people. However, given the harsh climate and isolated location, the school closed in 1968, with all residents finally leaving the area in 1984. Photo: Jonathan DeLise

After a long day of ravines, boulders, and (someone else’s) flat tire, I settled into my Conestoga wagon. It had very good heating and more power points to charge electronics than most modern hotels. The ranch’s staff is well-versed in local history, lore, and cowboy stories, the latter of which was humorously recounted during nightly campfire sessions — with s’mores, of course. Photo: Jonathan DeLise

Given that the ranch’s location is particularly remote, meals — eaten communally in the lodge — include the ranch’s own Red Devon beef, Navajo fry bread, biscuits and sausage gravy, and pot roast. And don’t forget to try the pancakes with boysenberry jam and regional honey. Photo: Jonathan DeLise

It’d be hard to overstate how much I enjoyed trudging through the harsh landscapes of Southern Utah and the Arizona Strip. What I can easily say is that I wouldn’t pass up another opportunity to have an off-season off-roading adventure — only next time, I’d bring a two-ply Kleenex. Photo: Jonathan DeLise
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