At a Remote Scottish Pub, a Pint Worth Hiking 20 Miles

When my fiance and I started planning our honeymoon, we knew we wanted an outdoor adventure with plenty of hiking and wildlife, as well as some time to relax on a beach. We also knew we wanted to splurge and get there in lie-flat seats, which was only financially feasible if we could buy our tickets using points and miles.

Oct 3, 2024 • 5 min read

Travelling across Europe by both plane and train is set to get easier thanks to a new partnership between Eurostar and a global airline alliance.

For dwellers of the mountains or high desert, a good pair of hiking boots is essential. As a gear tester and editor at Matador, I’ve worn many pairs from brands both established and new, and given that I hike hundreds of miles per year, have become quite picky about what I want in a pair of boots for the trail. I recently acquired a pair of Oboz Cottonwood Mid Waterproof hiking boots, listed with the term B-DRY on the REI website, after demoing them at a trade show, and after a month of constant trail use, the boots have earned their place in my gear collection as my new pair of go-to hiking boots. Here’s why.

Your boots are your loyal companions on the trail, carrying you through sunshine, rain, and everything in between. But with so many options on the shelf, choosing the right pair can feel daunting. Do you prioritize ankle support for rugged hikes or lightweight agility for speedy ascents? Waterproof protection for surprise downpours or breathability for hot summer treks? This guide will help you navigate the world of hiking boots, ensuring you select the perfect partner for every adventure, whether it’s a leisurely stroll through a local park or an ambitious trek to a mountain peak.

As I watched the Indonesian port city of Labuan Bajo fade into the horizon from the aft deck of Katherina, the bars on my phone gradually diminished before vanishing altogether. I’d spend the next 10 days cruising the coasts of Flores, Komodo, and Alor with SeaTrek Sailing Adventures, during which time my iPhone would be no more than a paperweight with a fancy camera.

In Scotland, we often experience weather conditions from all four seasons in one day. This can make planning outdoor sports feel like a military operation. If you let the weather dictate your plans, you’ll never leave the house. So this summer, my husband James and I tested some of Arc’teryx’s summer hiking gear to see if the innovative tech would stand up to gale-force wind and pouring rain and understand if the brand’s essentials are worth the investment. The three items — high-rise utility leggings, the Beta lightweight jacket, and the Cerium Hybrid hooded jacket — exceeded our expectations and are now family favorites and go-to grabs for all our outdoor adventures. In fact, we’ve argued more over who can wear the Beta jacket than who’s emptying the dishwasher.

Exploring the historic castles of Scotland is more than a popular tourist activity. It’s a way to learn about the country’s history, one steeped in fascinated legend and lore. These ancient fortresses, scattered across the dramatic Scottish landscape, are one of the best ways to explore tales of feuding clans, royal intrigue, and battles for power — all of which echo through stone walls and misty valleys even today, thanks to the dedicated efforts of preservationists and historians. Visiting Scottish castles is not just about ticking off tourist attractions, but about engaging with the stories and dramas that shaped the country.

A new nonstop flight from Dallas Fort Worth straddles three days. On Wednesday, Cathay Pacific announced it will launch services from Hong Kong to and from the Texan hub.

Cathay Pacific will launch a new route from Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), the airline said on Tuesday.

Members of American Airlines AAdvantage have a new option in South America via budget airline JetSmart.

Attention, points and miles enthusiasts: You've probably been keeping up with the breaking aviation news regarding Alaska Airlines' acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines. On Tuesday, the merger was finalized, and details were revealed regarding how the two airlines would continue to operate while maintaining their distinct brands.