But before we dive into the captivating world of Kazakh cuisine, let’s set the stage. Kazakhstan, the world’s largest landlocked country (and 9th largest country in the world), is a haven for adventure seekers. From the rugged peaks of the Tian Shan Mountains to the endless steppes that stretch beyond the horizon, it’s a playground for those who yearn to get off the beaten path, rediscover a sense of adventure in the travels, and experience the incredible landscapes on offer here in the great outdoors.

Now, you might be wondering why I have strayed so far from my familiar terrain exploring Latin America and living as an expat in Colombia. Well, I was fortunate enough to be invited to explore this country as part of the SATW (Society of American Travel Writers) in partnership with Travel Kazakhstan and USAID to explore this country and get a taste of what it has to offer the adventurous traveler, as part of a small group of amazing travel writers from North America.

BUT it’s precisely this departure from the beaten path that keeps the travel flame alive within me. While I’ve hiked in dense tropical jungles, scaled icy peaks in the Andes, and danced to the rhythms of salsa in Medellin, Kazakhstan represents a fresh canvas on which to paint new memories, a place where the thrill of discovery is as intoxicating as the altitude of its Tian Shan mountains.

And, of course, there’s the food. Traditional Kazakhstan food, sometimes overshadowed by its more renowned neighbors throughout Central Asia, holds its own when it comes to flavor, tradition, and cultural significance. This is a cuisine born of nomadic roots, shaped by its history, and infused with influences from its seat at the crossroads of civilizations, with influences from the Silk Road to the Soviet Union, but grounded in its traditions from the Steppe. It’s a culinary journey I embarked on with eagerness and intrigue, ready to savor every bite, try things that I’ve never had before, and share every delectable detail with you, my fellow gastronomic adventurers. Food is truly one of the best parts of travel.

So, fasten your seatbelts, put on your hiking boots, and join me to explore Kazakhstan’s hidden treasures, both in its stunning landscapes and on its diverse dinner plates. In the sections that follow, I’ll take you on a journey through the best foods to eat in Kazakhstan, from the perspective of a traveler who’s ventured far and wide but has found an entirely new world here in the heart of Central Asia. Let’s get to it!

Traditional Kazakhstan Food

In the heart of Kazakhstan, where the winds whisper tales of nomadic heritage, you’ll find a treasure trove of traditional Kazakh cuisine that not only satisfy the palate but also tell stories of a rich and diverse history. These are the flavors that have sustained generations of nomads, and they are a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of Kazakh people and their cuisine.

Beshbarmak (Five Fingers):

Ingredients: Beshbarmak (or beshparmak), which translates to “Five Fingers,” is a celebratory dish made with boiled meat (usually lamb or beef), served atop flat noodles and accompanied by onions. It’s a simple yet hearty dish, that I absolutely loved and ate on more than one occasion during my stay. This is probably the most popular Kazakh dish and is actually the national dish of Kazakhstan — so be sure to try it, I think you’ll love it.

Preparation: The meat is boiled until tender, then sliced and placed on a bed of noodles. Onions are often sprinkled on top.

Flavors: The flavors are savory and comforting, with the meat’s richness complemented by the mild, flat noodles. The onions add a subtle bite.

Baursak:

Ingredients: Baursak is a fried dough pastry made from flour, eggs, and milk. It’s shaped into small, bite-sized pieces before frying.

Preparation: The dough is kneaded and shaped into small squares, then deep-fried until golden brown.

Flavors: Baursak is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a subtle sweetness. It’s often served as an appetizer, snack, or with tea.

Baursak, the unexpected sleeper hit of my culinary adventure! Literally everyone in our group was raving about Baursak and we’d practically fight over these delicious golden morsels that would magically appear on the table (and then disappear just as fast). They’re addictive, to say the least. Definitely a top food, and one that I could see myself making at home on occasion. I miss them already!

Baursak is even better when they are freshly fried and still warm. On a few occasions we were privileged enough to get them right after being prepared and even to see them roll out the dough, cut them up into squares and toss it in the roiling oil.

Laghman:

Ingredients: Laghman is another hearty noodle dish featuring hand-pulled noodles, stir-fried meat (typically beef or lamb), and a medley of vegetables.

Preparation: The key to Laghman is the hand-pulled noodles, which are stretched and cooked to perfection. The meat and vegetables are stir-fried and served atop the noodles.

Flavors: Laghman is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, with the chewy noodles, savory meat, and crisp vegetables coming together in a delightful medley.

My first time trying laghman was also the first meal that really blew me away in Kazakhstan and made me say WOW. We pulled into a small, non-descript roadside restaurant in a dusty town on the way to Charyn Canyon, but the result was a deliciously satisfying bowl of noodles that warmed my soul and was another huge hit with everyone in our group. Laghman is actually a Uyghur dish which is another Central Asian group of people that are actually quite close to Almaty, just across the border in modern-day China.

Shashlik (Kebabs):

Ingredients: Shashlik consists of marinated and skewered pieces of meat, often lamb or beef.

Preparation: The meat is marinated with a mixture of spices and sometimes yogurt, then skewered and grilled over an open flame.

Flavors: Shashlik is smoky, tender, and bursting with the flavors of the marinade. It’s often served with flatbread and a side of vegetables.

Manti (Dumplings):

Ingredients: Manti are dumplings filled with ground meat (typically lamb or beef), onions, and spices. They are often steamed or baked.

Preparation: The dough is rolled out thin, and a small portion of the meat mixture is placed in the center. The dumplings are then folded into various shapes and cooked.

Flavors: Manti are a burst of flavor in every bite, with the savory meat mixture complemented by the delicate dough. They are often served with a spicy sauce.

Plov (Pilaf):

Ingredients: Plov is a fragrant rice dish cooked with meat (usually lamb or beef), carrots, onions, and spices.

Preparation: The meat and vegetables are sautéed, then rice is added and cooked together with flavorful spices.

Flavors: Plov is a symphony of flavors and aromas, with each grain of rice infused with the essence of the spices and tender meat.

Kazy or Qazy (Horse Sausage):

Ingredients: Kazy is a traditional sausage made from horse meat, typically seasoned with garlic and spices. Yes, you read that right – horse meat sausage!

Preparation: The meat is minced, mixed with seasonings, stuffed into casings, and air-dried.

Flavors: Kazy has a unique flavor, slightly gamey and intensely aromatic. It’s often served thinly sliced as a delicacy.

I’d actually never eaten horse before, so this was an entirely new experience for me. Horse meat is quite common in Kazakhstan (although interestingly, it is not eaten all Central Asian countries, most notably in Turkmenistan).

My first taste of horse meat was at the Green Bazaar in Almaty when a kind vendor held out samples of the sausage he makes himself and used Google Translate on his phone to communicate with me. The flavor was actually quite nice. I’m not going to say it is my absolute favorite meat, but it’s good, not really that gamey, and is served up pretty regularly as I came to find out.

Vodka:

Ingredients: Vodka, a classic spirit, doesn’t need much explanation… I’m sure you’re already acquainted!

Preparation: It’s distilled and bottled, often enjoyed as shots or in various cocktails.

Flavors: The flavors of vodka are, of course, distinctive. It’s known for its crispness and, depending on the quality, can have subtle nuances.

During my travels, I learned about the historical connection of vodka to the Soviet era in Kazakhstan. It was shared as a symbol of friendship and camaraderie, and I partook in a few toasts that left me with warm memories and newfound friends. We had a few truly memorable occasions of late night toasts, singing (karaoke style but without music and singing lyrics from a phone), and dancing in the crisp mountain air, and getting invited into the home of our friendly driver.

Shubat (Camel’s Milk):

Ingredients: Shubat is a fermented milk product made from camel’s milk. It’s often enjoyed for its unique taste and purported health benefits.

Preparation: Camel’s milk is traditionally left to ferment naturally, resulting in a tangy, slightly sour beverage.

Flavors: Shubat has a distinct tartness, similar to yogurt, but with a unique flavor profile due to the camel’s milk. It’s considered a delicacy in many parts of Kazakhstan.

During my adventures in the remote Kazakh steppe, I had the opportunity to taste Shubat during a gastronomic food tour in Almaty. Its refreshing and slightly sour taste (not that strong) was a testament to the resourcefulness of the Kazakh people in utilizing the milk of their steppe-dwelling camels (also used for meat). I’m not a milk-drinking normally (sometimes I’ll add it to coffee, or eat it on granola or cereal, of course), so it wasn’t something I loved, but I definitely wanted to try it. It’s a lot more “normal” and palatable than our next entry though…

Kumis (Mare’s Milk):

Ingredients: Kumis is another fermented milk beverage, but this time it’s made from mare’s milk. It has been a staple in the diet of Kazakh nomads for centuries.

Preparation: Mare’s milk is naturally fermented, and the resulting beverage has a mild alcoholic content due to the fermentation process.

Flavors: Kumis is a very unique and acquired taste, with a tangy, slightly effervescent quality. It’s often described as sour and refreshing by locals. It is almost shockingly tart and sour.

My introduction to Kumis was a memorable one as we arrived to a traditional Hun village on the outskirts of Almaty and were welcomed with Kumis and delicious Baursak. The initial taste was certainly surprising, but I appreciated being able to try this unique and special drink and its role as a vital part of the nomadic lifestyle. Many local Kazakhs love this drink, crave it, and would request it at different events and dinners.

Both Shubat and Kumis are fascinating examples of how Kazakh cuisine has evolved to make the most of the region’s natural resources. These fermented milk beverages not only provide sustenance but also offer a glimpse into the enduring traditions of the nomadic people of Kazakhstan, an experience that added depth and flavor to my culinary adventure in this remarkable land.

These traditional Kazakh dishes represent not only the culinary heritage of this remarkable country but also the warm hospitality of its people. As an adventure traveler accustomed to Latin American flavors, my journey through Kazakhstan’s cuisine was a revelation, reminding me that the joy of travel lies in the discovery of the unfamiliar, the sharing of stories, and the appreciation of the rich tapestry of global cultures.

Hidden Culinary Delights in Kazakhstan

While the traditional Kazakh dishes we’ve explored so far are a culinary delight, Kazakhstan has even more to offer to those willing to venture off the beaten path. Let’s uncover a few more hidden gems that you might stumble across during your travels in Kazakhstan, depending on which regions you visit and where you end up. I wasn’t able to try these myself since we were mostly in and around Almaty, but I thought it important to mention them here.

Zhaya (Caspian Sea): Found in the Caspian Sea region, particularly around cities like Atyrau, Aktau, and Astrakhan. Zhaya is a fish dish made from the Caspian sturgeon. The fish is typically salted and smoked to preserve it for long periods, making it a staple for nomadic communities living near the Caspian Sea.

Kart (East Kazakhstan): Kart is a hearty stew made with mutton or beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and spices. It’s often slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in tender chunks of meat and flavorful vegetables.

Kuurdak (Various Regions): Kuurdak can be found throughout Kazakhstan, but regional variations abound. Kuurdak is a dish made from leftover meat, often lamb or beef, and potatoes. The ingredients are sautéed together with onions and spices until they reach a delightful caramelized state.

Beshbarmak with Fish (Northern Kazakhstan): Commonly enjoyed in northern Kazakhstan, particularly in cities like Petropavl and Kokshetau. This unique twist on the classic Beshbarmak includes fish, typically whitefish like bream or perch, alongside the traditional ingredients of meat and noodles.

Samsa Varieties (Various Regions): Different regions of Kazakhstan have their versions of samsa, savory pastries filled with meat, vegetables, or even sweet ingredients. Samsa is a popular snack, and the fillings can vary widely. In southern regions, you might find samsa with pumpkin and spices, while in the north, they often contain meat and onions.

Try to seek out some of these regional specialties if you can! Kazakhstan’s food culture is as diverse as its landscapes, and there’s always something new and exciting to discover when you step off the well-worn path (which you’re already doing if you come to Kazakhstan in the first place).

Dining Experience

Experiencing the authentic flavors of Kazakh cuisine goes beyond the dishes themselves; it’s about immersing yourself in the culture and traditions that accompany each meal. Here are some tips for finding, savoring, and respecting the dining experiences in Kazakhstan.

Authentic Kazakh Restaurants and Eateries:

Ask Locals for Recommendations: Locals are your best guides anywhere you go. Strike up conversations with people you meet during your travels and ask for their favorite dining spots and hole-in-the-walls. The language might be a barrier here, and this part of the world really opens up to you if you have some basic Russian (and a few Kazakh phrases will go far).

Look for Yurts and Traditional Decor: In rural areas, keep an eye out for yurts or nomadic-style restaurants. These often offer the most authentic Kazakh dining experiences, not to say that you won’t find some really awesome Kazakh food in normal sit-down restaurants, but the vibe and experience is so much better in a yurt.

Visit Local Markets: Street food stalls and small eateries within local markets can be hidden gems for trying traditional dishes or even just getting little snacks and samples from eager vendors. Like I said, that was how I first tasted horsemeat, along with more standard stuff like apples, nuts, and local sweets.

Online Resources: Use online platforms and travel forums to find recommendations from fellow travelers who have explored Kazakhstan’s culinary scene to find places near your hotel or hostel. I usually just hop on Google Maps to start getting a better idea of what is popular nearby.

Atmosphere and Ambiance:

Yurt Dining: Dining in a traditional Kazakh yurt is an unforgettable experience. The circular shape, intricate felt décor, and low seating create a cozy and intimate atmosphere as you dig into the communal dining experience with your travel companions or even locals.

Live Music and Dance: Some restaurants, especially in larger cities, offer traditional Kazakh music and dance performances. These cultural shows can add to the ambiance of your meal. We had a particularly incredible evening at the home of our driver with his daughters (and their students) giving a live musical performance on traditional instruments like the incredible Dombra (like a two-string guitar).

Outdoor Dining: In pleasant weather, consider dining outdoors. Many restaurants offer garden or terrace seating with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes or ornate fountains. Almaty has really amazing weather in the shoulder seasons which makes outdoor dining a dream, but even on the hottest days, you can usually enjoy outdoor dining in the evenings.

Dining Etiquette and Customs:

Hospitality: Kazakh hospitality is renowned and deeply rooted in the hospitality of traditional nomadic cultures. When invited into a Kazakh home or yurt, it’s customary to bring a small gift, such as sweets or fruits, as a token of appreciation. Your host may enjoy a bottle of wine or vodka, even though the majority are Muslim, alcohol is usually acceptable, but you should know your host.

Shoes Off: In traditional settings like yurts and homes, it’s common to remove your shoes before entering.

Seating Arrangements: Typically, guests are seated on the floor or on low cushions around a table. Follow the lead of your hosts in terms of seating and posture.

Sharing Dishes: Kazakh meals often involve sharing dishes with those around you. It’s polite to take only what you can eat to avoid wasting food.

Toasting: When sharing a meal, expect to participate in toasts. Raising your glass and taking a sip is a sign of respect. If you’re offered a toast, it’s customary to reciprocate. Expect a lot of toasts and shots of vodka or other hard drink.

Special Dining Experiences:

Cooking Classes: Consider taking a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Kazakh dishes. It’s a hands-on way to appreciate the culinary traditions here and to bring those recipes and knowledge back home with you. Some of my favorite dishes to cook at home are things that I’ve picked up on the road, although I still haven’t made any Baursak at home.

Nomadic Experiences: In rural areas, some tour operators offer nomadic experiences like archery, acrobatic horse shoes, falconry, traditional instruments or the harvesting wool and these experiences often include dining with Kazakh families and participating in activities.

Tea Ceremonies: Kazakh tea culture is rich and diverse. Participate in a traditional tea ceremony to learn about the customs and enjoy a variety of teas and snacks.

By embracing these dining experiences and observing the etiquette and customs, you’ll not only savor the delicious flavors of Kazakhstan but also gain a deeper understanding of the country’s rich cultural tapestry. So, let your taste buds and your curiosity lead the way as you embark on your culinary journey through this extraordinary land.

Vegetarian and Dietary Considerations

While Kazakhstan’s culinary landscape is a paradise for meat lovers, travelers with dietary restrictions, such as vegetarians and vegans, may find it a bit challenging to navigate. Here’s a word of caution: Kazakh cuisine is traditionally meat-heavy, and vegetarian options can be limited in some areas. However, with a bit of effort and flexibility, you can still enjoy a satisfying meal in Kazakhstan.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options:

Laghman and Manti: In larger cities like Almaty and Astana, you can often find vegetarian versions of Laghman (noodle stir-fry) and Manti (dumplings) made with vegetable fillings, such as mushrooms and bell peppers.

Salads: Many Kazakh restaurants offer a variety of salads, such as “Olivier” salad (a Russian-inspired potato salad) or fresh vegetable salads.

Samsa with Pumpkin: Look for samsa filled with pumpkin, especially in the southern regions. These are a delightful vegetarian snack.

Fruit: One thing that almost any Kazakh table is never missing is a giant bowl of fruit at the center. You can definitely get your fill here as it often remains nearly untouched. Did you know the apple is originally from Almaty?

Bread and Dairy: Traditional Kazakh bread is typically vegetarian and can be a staple of your diet (it was for me, and I’m not even vegetarian!). You can also enjoy dairy products like yogurt, cheese, and horse and camel milk.

Accommodation and Communication:

Communicate Your Dietary Needs: When dining out, don’t hesitate to communicate your dietary preferences clearly to the staff. While English may not be widely spoken, having print outs in Russian and Kazakh with simple phrases like “I am vegetarian” or “I do not eat meat” can help convey your needs.

Cook For Yourself: Consider staying in accommodations with kitchen facilities, such as Airbnb apartments or guesthouses, to prepare your own meals when vegetarian options are limited. It’s often one of the best ways to save money too, if you’re traveling on a budget, although Kazakhstan isn’t too expensive.

Regional Variations:

Almaty and Astana: The capital and largest city, Astana, and the cultural hub of Almaty tend to offer more diverse dining options, including international cuisines, fine-dining, and vegetarian-friendly restaurants.

South Kazakhstan: In the south, where there is a significant Uzbek influence, you may find more vegetarian-friendly options like vegetable plov (pilaf) and shashlik (grilled vegetables).

West Kazakhstan: If you’re a pescatarian, you’ll find some great seafood options closer to the Caspian Sea in places like Aktau.

Filling the Gaps:

Snack Smart: Keep vegetarian snacks like nuts, dried fruits, and energy bars handy when you’re on the go, you’ll find tons of nuts and dried fruits in the local markets like Almaty’s Green Bazaar, and all for very reasonable prices.

BYO*: In some cases, consider bringing your favorite vegetarian or vegan products from home if you have specific dietary preferences or restrictions.

While it’s definitely true that Kazakhs have a strong affinity for meat, your journey as a vegetarian or vegan traveler in Kazakhstan can still be rewarding. Embrace the opportunity to explore traditional vegetable-based dishes and be sure to communicate your dietary needs clearly to ensure a memorable and satisfying dining experience. You don’t want any of that precious horse meat going to waste over a misunderstanding.

Food Markets and Culinary Tours

To truly immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Kazakh cuisine, there’s no better way than to explore the bustling food markets and take part in guided culinary tours or cooking classes. Here are some recommendations to enhance your culinary adventure in Kazakhstan.

Explore Local Food Markets:

Green Bazaar in Almaty: If you find yourself in Almaty, a visit to the Green Bazaar (Zelyony Bazaar) is a must. It’s not only one of the largest and oldest markets in the city tracing back to the days of the Silk Road but also a sensory feast. Wander through the labyrinthine alleys lined with stalls overflowing with fresh produce, spices, dried fruits, and local delicacies.

Engage with the friendly vendors, sample dried nuts, try traditional sweets, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. The market is a treasure trove of Kazakh ingredients and flavors. Vendors are super friendly too, despite the language barriers. Green Bazaar is also a good place to pick up souvenirs and even do other shopping, if you need to. Don’t forget to swing over to the Rakhat chocolate factory a block or two away which dates back to Soviet times.

Central Food Markets: In other cities across Kazakhstan, you’ll discover central food markets offering a similar experience, albeit with regional variations. These markets are excellent places to witness daily life, taste local specialties, and purchase unique ingredients to try your hand at Kazakh cooking.

Guided Culinary Tours

For travelers who desire a deeper understanding of Kazakh cuisine and culture, I highly recommend exploring culinary tours led by knowledgeable local guides. My preferred tour provider, GetYourGuide, offers a selection of enriching culinary experiences in Almaty, where many tourists start their Kazakhstan adventure:

Almaty Food Tasting Tour: Embark on a guided food tasting tour in Almaty, where you can sample a wide range of Kazakh dishes and street food while learning about their cultural significance. Taste traditional pastries, samsa, shashlik, and more.

Cooking Class: Enroll in a cooking class to learn how to prepare Kazakh dishes under the guidance of a local chef. Get hands-on experience making dumplings (manty) or traditional bread (baursak).

Visit the Green Bazaar: Join a guided tour of the Green Bazaar to explore the market’s hidden gems and discover the secrets behind Kazakh spices and ingredients. You’ll have the chance to interact with vendors and sample their products.

These tours not only provide an opportunity to savor authentic Kazakh flavors but also offer insights into the cultural significance of the dishes and ingredients. Plus, you’ll have the chance to connect with fellow travelers who share your passion for food and adventure, and get better insights with the help of a guide who speaks your language.

Whether you’re exploring the colorful stalls of the Green Bazaar or getting hands-on in a cooking class, these culinary experiences will undoubtedly enhance your journey through Kazakhstan, allowing you to savor the flavors and traditions of this extraordinary land.

Conclusion

As I relive my culinary journey through Kazakhstan via this article, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible flavors, traditions, and experiences that have enriched my adventure in this remarkable country. Kazakhstan, with its vast landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has left an indelible mark on my wanderlust-driven heart, and I’m already yearning to return to explore it more in-depth since we were mostly in and around Almaty throughout the length of our trip.

Kazakh cuisine, though often overshadowed by its neighbors, is a treasure trove of flavors and history waiting to be discovered. From the savory depths of Beshbarmak to the delicate flavors of Manti, from the hidden gems of regional specialties to the unique and definitely unforgettable experiences of camel’s milk and mare’s milk, every dish tells a story of nomadic traditions and a culture that sat at the crossroads of global trade for thousands of years.

What makes Kazakh cuisine truly exceptional for adventure travelers like us is not just the food itself, but the immersive experiences that accompany it. From dining in traditional yurts under the vast Kazakh sky to savoring street food while mingling with locals in bustling markets, every meal is an adventure of its own. I’d been traveling for so long in Latin America that I kind of forgot what it was like to travel in a place where I struggled to communicate, not knowing the local language, and felt my own wanderlust being rekindled at the unexpected magic that comes with being open to totally new experienced and giving yourself up to wherever the day takes you.

I wholeheartedly encourage you to embark on your own adventure in Kazakhstan. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to the world of exploration, this country has something extraordinary to offer. Take a journey to the Caspian Sea’s shimmering shores to eat cavier, witness the majesty of a Russian rocket launch in Baikonur, embrace the nostalgia of riding old Soviet trains across the Kazakh Steppe, and stand in awe of snow capped peaks that beckon people like me to stand upon their summits.

My newfound love for Kazakhstan runs deep, and I can’t wait to return to uncover more hidden culinary gems, explore new landscapes, and create even more memories that will last a lifetime. This is a land of endless possibilities, a place where adventure meets gastronomy, and where every traveler can find their own unique path.

So, pack your bags, bring your appetite, and set your sights on Kazakhstan. Your next adventure awaits, and I promise you won’t be disappointed.

This publication was made possible through support provided by USAID’s Trade Central Asia activity, implemented by DAI, Travel Kazakhstan, and SATW’s Digital Publisher’s Council. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Agency for International Development, Travel Kazakhstan, or SATW.

The article Kazakhstan Food: Exploring Some of its Most Delicious Dishes first appeared on Desk to Dirtbag.

Here are eight of the best parks to visit with your dog, whether you are just planning to visit just one, all eight of them, or are planning an epic national park road trip across the country!

Don’t forget to purchase your America the Beautiful National Park Pass before leaving!

1. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Country roads will take you and your dog to this park located in northwest Virginia. About 75 miles from Washington, D.C., this park is one of the few that allows pets to walk on the trails with you. You can bring your dogs with you on most trails if you have them on a leash that’s 6 feet or shorter.

At Shenandoah National Park, you can see the beauty John Denver sang about in his hit songs. You could hike the Blue Ridge Mountains, one of the oldest mountain ranges in the history of the world. The Shenandoah River is nearby as well.

Read More: Hiking White Oak Canyon, Stony Man & Old Rag

2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is one of America’s premier sites in the Southwest, and it’s a great place to bring your dog. The federal government designated the Grand Canyon as a national park in 1919, three years after the founding of the National Park Service. And in 1979, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) designated it as a World Heritage site because of its rich geological history.

You can take your dog to the South Rim Trail at Grand Canyon National Park. However, you’re unable to take your dog below the rim on the inner canyon trails. Pets are susceptible to wildlife, such as coyotes and cougars, and can hinder other travelers on the narrow paths. You can bring your dog if it’s a service animal. Be mindful of the dangers the wildlife and the heat can produce, especially in the summer.

3. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, West Virginia

Established in as a national river and redesignated in 2020 as a park and preserve, New River Gorge National Park presents tremendous beauty as part of the Appalachian Mountains. It’s one of the most pet-friendly parks in the nation, allowing your dogs on all their trails as long as you leash them.

Along the trails, you may encounter streams. It’s critical not to let your dog drink from them because they may contain bacteria that are harmful. That’s why it’s essential to be prepared and bring extra water and supplies for your dog.

Read More: Climbing at the New River Gorge

4. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

The Petrified Forest National Park in northeast Arizona is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the Southwest. One of the most well-known parts of this park is the stunning Painted Desert. Your dog can enjoy all the sights, too, because your leashed pets are allowed on all paved roads and trails.

The summer heat can be extreme here, so have plenty of water on hand and don’t leave your pet in your car.

Read More: The Ultimate Arizona Road Trip

5. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

Located 90 miles south of Louisville, Mammoth Cave National Park became a national park in 1941. The cave’s mammoth name is fitting because it’s the largest known cave system in the world.

While the park does not permit pets in the caves, there are over 70 miles of trails you can bring your dogs on as long as you have them on a leash. If you want to take time to walk through the caves, the park has a kennel you can leave your pups at while you explore.

6. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Cuyahoga Valley became a National Recreation Area in 1974 and former President Bill Clinton designated it as a National Park in 2000. It’s the only national park in Ohio and is a great place to take your pets. Cuyahoga Valley National Park allows you to bring dogs, cats, and other domesticated animals.

There are over 100 miles of trails for your pets, but only service animals can go on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. You’ll also have to go to the East Rim mountain bike trails without your animals.

7. White Sands National Park, New Mexico

Settled in southern New Mexico, White Sands National Park is just a two-hour drive from the Mexican border. Here you can find North America’s oldest footprints, which scientists say are over 18,000 years old. As the name suggests, this park has about 275 square miles of white dunes. You can enjoy the majestic scenery with your dogs as long as they’re on a leash 6 feet or shorter, the same rule as many other national parks.

Keeping your dogs leashed is vital because of the wildlife and cacti across the park. Due to its climate, the temperatures at White Sands National Park can be extreme. Pack a lot of water and bring items like an umbrella to shade your dog from the hot sun.

Read More: New Mexico Road Trip Sights

8. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, Alaska

If you want to visit a big national park, look no further than Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve in Alaska. This national park is the largest in the United States, with a size comparable to the combined areas of Switzerland, Yosemite National Park, and Yellowstone National Park.

All that square footage means more room for your dog to enjoy. At this park, dogs are allowed on all the trails. Only service animals may enter the public buildings within the park. Because of the trapping in the park, you must keep your dog on a leash 6 feet or shorter.

Read More: 11 Coolest Places to Visit in Alaska

Take Your Dog to These Incredible National Parks

National parks are exceptional places for an outdoor trip. You can embrace America’s beauty from sea to shining sea and get good exercise for yourself and your dog. The free or inexpensive cost of national parks is a convenient perk, too.

Before you em-bark on a trip to one of these breathtaking places, ensure your dog is ready for these parks because some of the trails can be long. Take breaks, bring water and dog treats, and keep an eye out for local wildlife.

Read Next: Ultimate Road Trip Planning Guide

The article 8 Best National Parks to Visit With Your Dog first appeared on Desk to Dirtbag.

The first time I visited Kennedy Space Center, I didn’t have a plan… We just wandered around, in and out of the various buildings. That’s a perfectly fine way to visit if that’s your style, but you will probably miss out on a lot of things, and you won’t necessarily hit things in the best possible order.

On subsequent visits, I had a better plan this time around. Not only in terms of what I wanted to see and do (things I missed the first time) but also in what order I wanted to see and do them.

This self-guided tour of Kennedy Space Center will give you a plan of attack and order of operations for your visit that will maximize your time and provide the greatest insight into the U.S. space program and its more than 70 years of history.

In my opinion, it makes the most sense to explore the space program and Kennedy Space Center in a more or less chronological fashion. This means learning about Mercury and Gemini before you learn about the Apollo missions, for example. The Mercury and Gemini programs were the stepping stones that led up to Apollo, after all. The lessons learned in each of those programs culminated in Apollo, and lessons learned there led to the Space Shuttle, and so on.

The problem is that those programs are spread out across different buildings and even areas of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, meaning that you don’t necessarily just want to go from one building to the next in order.

Gaining a greater understanding of the history of human space flight is important! We are living in the most exciting time for space exploration since the 1960s and a visit to Kennedy Space Center will help you appreciate all of that even more.

Let’s jump into how to plan your visit to Kennedy Space Center with this suggested itinerary.

Planning a Day at Kennedy Space Center

The majority of visitors will be coming from the Orlando area, and Kennedy Space Center is located about a one-hour drive from there. The Visitor Complex opens year-round at 9 am and I suggest planning to arrive at opening time.

You can save time by purchasing your tickets online in advance. Tickets for adults are currently $57 each.

Skip the Line and Buy Your Tickets Now

But you don’t need a reservation for the park unless you are planning on doing the add-on enhancements like chatting with an astronaut or the training stages (for an additional fee on top of an entrance ticket).

Closing time varies depending on the season, but is either at 5 or 6 pm, meaning you have 8-9 hours at Kennedy Space Center. You can easily fill all that time here. So let’s get into our self-guided tour of Kennedy Space Center and your itinerary for the day.

Kennedy Space Center Attractions Map

Be sure to scroll around, zoom in and out, and explore for a better idea of the Kennedy Space Center attractions, including insight into where the launch pads are, the bus route to the Apollo Center, and much more.

Rocket Garden

Just inside the entrance of the Visitor Complex stands the imposing Rocket Garden where you will find real versions of some of the most famous rockets in space flight.

The rockets are primarily from the early days of the space program but also feature some more modern ones, as well.

There are guided tours of the Rocket Garden at different times throughout the day, including one just after the park gates open. I would suggest hopping on this one!

The guided tour of the Kennedy Space Center Rocket Garden lasts about 15-minutes and will share with you some of the key developments and progress in manned space flight from the earliest days up through the Saturn IB rocket.

You will also find massive rocket motors and the (tiny) capsules of the various programs which you can crawl inside to experience.

Doing the Rocket Garden first allows you to explore the earliest days of rockets (ballistic missiles) and manned spaceflight, plus it is all outdoors so it is best to do it before the Florida sun starts beating down on you.

Rocket Garden Time: 15-30 minutes

Heroes & Legends

Right beside the Rocket Garden, you should backtrack and head up the ramp to the relatively new Heroes & Legends building. This building explores some of the qualities needed by those early-day astronauts to strap into the top of a retrofitted missile and blast off into space.

The Heroes & Legends exhibit is among the newest additions to Kennedy Space Center and includes many very well-done exhibits, including interactive displays and attractions. You will learn a lot here about the astronauts involved in Mercury and Gemini, including their personal lives and what lead them to be part of the space program.

Don’t miss the Mercury mission control room, the Redstone rocket hung overhead, and Mercury and Gemini capsules on display.

The Heroes & Legends exhibit highlights Mercury and Gemini in greater detail, using some of the rockets you just saw in the Rocket Garden like the Mercury-Redstone, Mercury-Atlas, and Gemini-Titan rockets.

The Mercury 7 program sent six astronauts (flying solo) into space intending to reach orbit. Gemini sent up two astronaut teams with various space travel goals in preparation for Apollo, including spacewalks, docking procedures, and more.

You can make a brief stop at the Astronaut Hall of Fame near the end of the exhibit, or save it for later in the day if time allows.

Heroes & Legends: 1 hour

Apollo / Saturn V Exhibit

After learning all about Mercury and Gemini, let’s take the lessons learned and head to the Apollo program! The Apollo / Saturn V building at Kennedy Space Center is located in a separate area, accessible via a short bus ride.

Head straight to the bus area and board for a short guided tour of Kennedy Space Center to otherwise inaccessible areas. On the bus route, keep your eyes open for the Mercury-Redstone rocket soon after leaving, the SpaceX operations area (more on them later), and the VAB (Vehicle Assembly Building) where projects like Artemis (to return to the moon) is being worked on.

You will arrive at the Saturn V exhibit and be guided through a multi-room video introduction that is quite impressive. This tour or entrance will eventually lead you directly under the massive engines of a Saturn V booster hanging the length of the building… A mind-blowing sight to see the size and scale of the rocket that took humans to the moon.

There are numerous exhibits and rooms around the perimeter of the building that explore more of the various Saturn V flights culminating in the landing on the moon with Apollo 11.

There are somber reminders of the dangers as well, at the exhibit of Ad Astra Per Aspera detailing the tragic deaths of three astronauts: Gus Grissom, Ed White, and Roger Chaffee, in a fire on the launchpad. The first Americans to die for space exploration, and not the last.

Be sure to step outside the building to see Launch Pad 39A and B, the launch pad of so many major milestones in space flight, with lots more to come in the future!

Adjacent to the building is also the Banana Creek viewing area where you can see rocket launches which are becoming increasingly frequent (about once per week). If you are visiting on a launch day, you might want to save the visit to Apollo / Saturn V to coincide with an hour or two before launch.

Click here to check out the Kennedy Space Center launch schedule.

If you’re following the suggested itinerary, you may want to grab lunch here at the Moon Rock Cafe or at the Orbit Cafe back in the main visitor complex area. Either way, you will want to grab the bus back.

Apollo /Saturn V exhibit time: 1-2 hours

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Space Shuttle Atlantis

After taking in the history of Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo, we are ready to embark on a new and exciting chapter of human space flight with the introduction of the Space Shuttle! The Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit is located adjacent to the drop-off area for the Apollo bus.

The Space Shuttle marks the most lengthy period of space flight, with 30 years of service, over 100 missions, and more than 300 astronauts flown.

The ability to partially reuse a spacecraft (the shuttle is a glider that is reusable, but the rockets themselves were not) marked a huge turning point in space flight systems and set some of the groundwork for what we have today.

Inside the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, you will find the actual Space Shuttle Atlantis after one of the most impressive reveals you will ever see. Seeing the scale of the Atlantis up close and personal is another mind-blowing experience.

The age of the Space Shuttle is a whole new era that introduced the International Space Station (ISS) still flying overhead and was instrumental in the launch (and repair) of the Hubble Space Telescope which fundamentally changed our conception of the universe.

Don’t miss out on the Space Shuttle Launch Experience which gives you a bumpy ride to space and even the illusion of weightlessness upon arrival. There are numerous exhibits about the shuttle and related technologies throughout the building, and also be sure to check out the memorial to the 14 astronauts who died in the Challenger and Columbia accidents, along with some wreckage from both vessels. Another reminder of the dangers.

The space shuttle itself was retired in 2011 after 30 years of service, and the United States sat idle for nearly 10 years, unable to launch U.S. astronauts from U.S. soil, instead having to buy seats from the Russians to launch from Kazakhstan just to reach the International Space Station… But that was all about to change.

Space Shuttle Atlantis time: 1-2 hours

Gateway Launch Complex

Finally, back near the Rocket Garden at the entrance to Kennedy Space Center is the newest addition, the Gateway Launch Complex. This exhibit takes us into modern times and even explores some possibilities for the future…

Here you will find some space-flown hardware including a SpaceX Falcon 9 first-stage booster, a SpaceX Dragon Capsule, an Orion Capsule, and some other space hardware like the Boeing Starliner Capsule, Sierra Space Dream Chaser, and concepts for new space station elements.

It was, of course, the SpaceX Falcon 9 that brought Americans back to the International Space Station from U.S. soil with their first manned flight in November 2020, more than 9 years after the last Space Shuttle flight, and certainly one of the few bright spots in the dark days of the pandemic.

These are the reusable boosters that return to earth, landing upright with engine ignition. It has happened so many times now (some individual boosters have more than 13 landings) but it still seems like CGI or magic every time, especially when they land out at sea on a giant barge. The Falcon 9 is still only partially reusable, and the next step is fully reusable rockets.

In terms of the future, there are some proposals for space station capsules and flight here, as mentioned, plus four different interactive experiences where you can take off to Mars, Trappist-1, and other destinations.

Who knows what the future holds for space flight? Well, after today, you’ll have a pretty good idea of our progress, how we got there, where we are today, and what the future could hold.

Gateway Launch Complex time: 1-2 hours

Tour of Kennedy Space Center Itinerary

1. Rocket Garden: 15-30 minutes
2. Heroes & Legends: 1 hour
3. Apollo / Saturn V: 1-2 hours + 30 minutes for bus shuttle (15 minutes each direction)
4. Lunch: 1 Hour
5. Space Shuttle Atlantis: 1-2 hours
6. Gateway Launch Complex: 1-2 hours
7. Recommendations to fill any extra time below

These five exhibits on this tour and itinerary of the Kennedy Space Center will fill your entire day but there are still more things to see… These five destinations or exhibits are the most important, not only in terms of the history of space flight but also the most impressive and complete exhibits at Kennedy Space Center.

Visiting the exhibits in this order will take you on an in-depth tour of American spaceflight. Here is a recap of the programs along with some notable accomplishments and a timeline.

• Mercury Program (1958 – 1963)
  • Alan Shephard first American in space (1961)
  • John Glenn first American to orbit the earth (1962)
  • Gordon Cooper with 22 orbits (1963)
• Gemini Program (1964 – 1966)
  • Ed White with the first American spacewalk (1965)
  • Neil Armstrong performed the first manned docking in space (1966)
• Apollo Program (1968 – 1972)
  • Neil Armstrong first man on the moon (1969)
  • Apollo 17 the final voyage to the moon (1972)
• Space Shuttle (1981 – 2011)
  • Bruce McCandless first untethered spacewalk (1984)
  • Hubble Space Telescope launched into orbit (1990)
  • Eileen Marie Collins was the first woman to command a Space Shuttle mission (1995)
  • First crew abroad at the International Space Station (2000)
• Commercial Space Era (2012 – present)
  • SpaceX Dragon capsule docks with ISS, the first private spacecraft (2012)
  • SpaceX Falcon 9 lands the first stage of an orbital booster for the first time (2015)
  • U.S. Astronauts travel from U.S. soil again to the ISS on a SpaceX Falcon 9 (2020)

Tip: Read the book Into That Silent Sea & In the Shadow of the Moon before you go to gain better insight into the early days of the space program and a better appreciation for everything you will see here.

If you have more time that you want to utilize, I’d suggest budgeting a little more time on the period of most interest to you, whether that is the Space Shuttle, Apollo, or early Mercury/Gemini programs.

If you want a break, I’d suggest working in an IMAX movie after lunch or in the afternoon — check out the app or pamphlets at the entrance for a schedule. There are also massive gift shops if you want a NASA or SpaceX t-shirt (the best one is at the main plaza).

You can also finish out the day by visiting Journey to Mars, the Space Memorial Mirror, the Nature & Technology exhibit, or the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame if you bypassed it earlier while visiting Heroes & Legends. These are all secondary exhibits, in my opinion, and should be left for the end of the day or included in future visits.

Conclusion

I hope that this suggested itinerary and schedule of Kennedy Space Center prepare you for an incredible day at one of my favorite places in Florida. I’m adamant that Kennedy Space Center is not just a stopover to include on an Orlando family vacation, but an incredible destination in its own right.

The experience is even more incredible if you can time it with a scheduled rocket launch from Kennedy Space Center. Unmanned launches are a pretty regular occurrence these days, so your odds are good! But even if you can’t make a launch, the visit to Kennedy Space Center is 100% worth it and I try to return periodically to absorb even more details and insights about space exploration and to explore new additions to Kennedy Space Center.

Be sure not to miss my guide on things to do at the Kennedy Space Center with more details about each exhibit and the highlights you can’t miss at each spot, plus thoughts on where to stay in Titusville and other necessary trip planning help.

Did you enjoy this self-guided tour of the Kennedy Space Center? Take a second to share it on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest. Thanks!

The article A Self-Guided Tour of Kennedy Space Center: 1-Day Itinerary first appeared on Desk to Dirtbag.

I had the chance to spend a few nights at this beautiful new hotel and I wanted to share this experience with my readers as they consider where to stay in Medellin, Colombia.

Let’s jump into the details of this newly constructed hotel in the southern part of Medellin, away from the typical tourist bubble but still very strategically located.

Reservations and Booking

The Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta is the first Fairfield branded hotel by Marriott in Colombia. Fairfield is a well-known economy-to-midscale hotel brand by Marriott across the United States that offers lower prices with fewer hotel amenities. While some of that holds true for the first Fairfield by Marriott in Colombia, it also breaks the mold compared to its US counterparts, offering up a completely different model from the architecture and design to the amenities offered on-site.

What isn’t different though is the very accessible and affordable prices offered by the Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta. Indeed, the prices here are much cheaper than their US versions, with much more on offer.

Single king rooms can be had here at the Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta for around $50-70 per night depending on the night of the week. Prices tend to be cheaper on weekends versus weekdays since the hotel often attracts business travelers (both national and international). They also offer a slightly larger junior suite for around $80/night and up, which is where we stayed. The junior suite features a larger entry corridor and a separate workstation area with a desk and chair that is away from the bed.

Check Current Prices & Availability

Prices for the Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta are certainly among the lowest in the city for a hotel of this quality, caliber, and from a well-known international brand. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better deal at this price point. There are a few other Marriott properties in town, including the Four Points by Sheraton which costs about double the price of the Fairfield, and the Medellin Marriott which costs double the Sheraton (so, at least 4x as much as the Fairfield). Although both hotels offer additional amenities like pools, saunas, and/or jacuzzis.

As always, I strongly recommend joining the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program for free rewards, the ability to earn free nights, and other awesome benefits. You can maximize your rewards by signing up for a Marriott Bonvoy credit card, which will have you earning free nights right away which is how I was able to spend a week in NYC for free or at this elegant Marriott ocean-front resort on the Colombia coast — 100% free!

Important: Sign up for the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program and be sure to get a Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card to get your first free nights and unlock additional rewards, including welcome gifts, room upgrades, extra points, faster WIFI, and other benefits. Read: How to Stay in Luxury Hotels for Free.

Location of Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta

The Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta is located in the southern part of the Aburrá Valley, in what is the city of Sabaneta. So no, the hotel is not located in the city limits of Medellin, but it is in the larger metropolitan area just past the city of Envigado. This location has its pros and cons, and one person’s pro could be another person’s con, so you should know what you’re getting when considering booking this hotel property.

The city of Sabaneta has seen a huge boom in development and construction in recent years, filling with residential towers and commercial properties. While most travelers to Medellin choose to stay in the neighborhoods of Poblado (the #1 choice) or Laureles (#2 overall), the southern end holds its charms too! The cities of Sabaneta and Envigado are very appealing, in my opinion, and a little more laid back compared to those neighborhoods in Medellin, and are not on the typical tourist trail, which is nice. Very few tourists choose to stay in downtown Medellin but just visit for the day.

Read More: Best Neighborhoods in Medellin

The Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta is located just a few blocks from the Metro (Itagui Station), so you can very easily explore anything and everything that this city has to offer, making this hotel an excellent place to base yourself during your stay. Between the hotel and the metro station is one of the largest shopping malls in the area, the expansive Mayorca Centro Comercial. This massive mall contains two huge sections connected by dual sky bridges, and the Itagui Metro Station connects directly to the outside of the mall — meaning you can cut through the interior of the mall to get to the metro station within 10 minutes (if you’re coming & going during business hours).

The convenience of being located next to public transport is great, but it’s also nice being located adjacent to the shopping center too with tons of restaurants, coffee shops, and even a grocery store. If you aren’t too “street smart” or familiar with travel in big Latin American cities, these massive malls are considered some of the safest places to be, which is what makes them so popular among locals too. Here are some things to check out in Mayorca CC:

• La Migueria – one of the best bakeries in Medellin
• Tostao – two locations offering up very affordable coffee and pastries
• Juan Valdez – Colombia’s most famous coffee chain, like Starbucks — speaking of which, there is a brand new Starbucks here as well.
• Crepes & Waffles – One of Colombia’s most cherished restaurants with delicious savory crepes and desserts.
• There are tons more options than that, but those are just a few things to consider when you’re passing through the mall.

The hotel is located almost equidistant between the main central plazas of both Sabaneta and Envigado, just a short taxi or bus ride from each, or about a 30-minute walk to either Envigado’s central plaza or a 20-minute walk to Sabaneta’s central plaza. Both are lively centers of activity with plenty to do, while offering an environment more typical of small town pueblos. I’ve written extensively about Envigado already, but Sabaneta is also quite popular for locals to go party and eat. Check out a lively bar like El Viejo John next to the park, eat giant buñuelos in El Peregrino, or just walk around and people watch.

You are also a short walk from the large Polideportivo Sur sports complex where you can get in some exercise, play Tejo (throwing rocks at little explosives!), or catch a soccer game with the Envigado FC team, all less than a 15-minute walk away.

The hotel is a bit further from Medellin’s main airport, the Jose Maria Cordova International Airport, due to its location at the far southern end of the valley, so you can expect it to take 50-60 minutes or more depending on traffic congestion. The hotel can arrange for an airport shuttle, for an additional fee, if you don’t have other means of transport. If you happen to be using the smaller Olaya Herrera Airport, then you are a much shorter drive as it is located right in town. But Playa Herrera is used primarily for small regional flights.

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Check-In at the Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta

The hotel itself is located right on Carrera 43A which is a principal avenue that eventually becomes Avenida Poblado. As mentioned previously, it is located across the street from Mayorca CC and less than a 10-minute walk from the Itagui Metro Station. The building itself is a mixed-use construction containing small local businesses on the first floor, private apartments (on different floors, and with a separate entrance), and the hotel which occupies floors 6-10.

After entering the hotel along Carrera 43A, a doorman greeted us and sent us straight up to the sixth floor where the hotel lobby is located. Immediately outside the elevator bank on the sixth floor is the lobby and check-in where we were attended by the friendly staff. Check-in registration was fairly quick and efficient, although here in Colombia they check and register the IDs of all guests as a matter of security which slows things down a bit.

There is one bank of two elevators in the hotel (the same ones leading up directly from the ground floor) which require scanning your room key card to access any floors beyond the ground floor or sixth floor with the lobby and common areas.

Our Room at the Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta

Our Junior Suite on the 10th floor was quite spacious with ample natural lighting thanks to being a corner room with multiple large windows. A long entrance corridor was lined by shelves with local artwork and baskets while the other side offered a large eastern window overlooking the green hills of Sabaneta and the towers of Poblado in the distance.

At the end of the entryway was a small desk and work area in front of a southern-facing window overlooking the city of Sabaneta. I was pleasantly surprised to find a fruit and cheese plate along with a mini bottle of wine waiting for me on the desk. An unexpected and awesome surprise, for sure!

The separate desk area ended up being tremendously convenient since Andrea had a few online Spanish classes to teach (video calls) and I could still be in the main part of the room without being seen on camera. The Wifi was also fast and reliable, of course, and Andrea had no connectivity issues doing her numerous video call classes.

Around the corner from the entryway and desk were the large and cozy king bed, the large screen TV, a small mini fridge, a coffee maker, and the bathroom. Everything was new and elegant with the modern amenities that we all know and love like USB connections for charging, a bathroom mirror with recessed backlighting, a safe deposit box, a large rainfall showerhead, and air conditioning for that Medellin heat & humidity.

The in-room personal coffee maker is a nice Juan Valdez machine that uses individual coffee pods that are quite delicious. I’m glad to see that Marriott is using local businesses like Juan Valdez throughout their Colombian properties. These coffee pods are like little tea bags, and while still individually packed in plastic bags are still more ecologically friendly than the Keurig coffee pods.

Also, in terms of sustainability issues, the hotel does still use the little individual bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and lotion, which I hope to see phased out completely in favor of the larger refillable bottles that we are seeing in more hotel properties now, including other Marriott properties in Colombia.

Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta Amenities

The Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta features your standard amenities for hotels in this category and price range, including a simple business center, access to printers, a small conference room, but also a few surprises too.

Outdoor Terrace: As mentioned previously, the hotel is located on floors 6-10, with the public areas being located on the sixth floor. Beyond the lobby, there is access to a fairly large outdoor terrace with ample greenery, comfy outdoor seating, and gorgeous views over the top of the Mayorca Mall to the west and looking north to Medellin with the towers of Poblado in the distance and downtown even further beyond.

Small Gym: At the center of the outdoor sits another enclosed area where you will find a small conference room and a small gym. The gym is open 24/7 and offers a few elliptical machines, treadmills, and weights. It is very simple but sufficient to get in a little workout whenever you might need it during your stay. You might need it to burn off the calories from our next amenities…

Free Buffet Breakfast: The hotel offers a pretty extensive buffet breakfast each morning offering hot and cold options, including international standards like eggs, toast, yogurt, waffles, cereals, fresh fruit, etc. But they’ve also included several local options so you can expand your palate, with things like calentao (mixed beans and rice), local tropical fruits, mini empanadas, and more.

Some items get mixed up on a day-to-day basis while others are standard offers every morning. You will also find coffees, teas, juices, etc, along with several sweet treats. The breakfast was quite complete with ample seating in the common areas including some comfy sofas and padded chairs where you can kick back and relax with your morning coffee or evening cocktail.

Dining at the Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta: Beyond the morning buffet breakfast, the hotel also offers a full-service restaurant and bar for both lunch and dinner, something that is unique compared to what you normally find in a Fairfield by Marriott property.

The menu here is a typical sort of modern American cuisine with burgers, steaks, pasta, salads, and so forth. Prices are reasonable and on par with similar sit-down dining restaurants that you will find in Medellin, including in the adjacent mall. During our stay, we had burgers, punta de anca steak, and spaghetti a la bolognese.

Everything was quite delicious, and I especially liked the burgers we had during their 2×1 happy hour promotion! You can also request room service from the menu.

Read More: What to Eat in Colombia

Speaking of happy hour, there is also a full-service bar adjacent to the lounge area where you can get your favorite cocktails or local or international beers. Likewise, the bar frequently offers happy hour promotions where you can margaritas, mojitos, Cuba Libres, and similar drinks at a 2×1 promo! Now we’re talking!

Final Thoughts

Honestly, the Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta is an awesome hotel for the budget-conscious traveler who wants a nice and comfortable stay in Medellin away from the typical tourist bubble of Poblado.

You might think that the hotel is far away from the main hub and action of Medellin, but you’re not. The hotel is located adjacent to a metro station that will take you anywhere you might want to go in the city, and you’re just a short (and cheap) taxi or Uber ride away, as well. Medellin isn’t such a massive city, in reality, and you can get around here quite easily although you might have to fight a lot of traffic at times, which makes the metro a good option. The ride on the metro train is less than 20-minutes to downtown Medellin.

Plus, the southern part of the Aburrá Valley, including Sabaneta and Envigado, holds its charms and appeals and is becoming an increasingly popular choice to live among both ex-pats and locals and the Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta is well located on the border of both.

I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending this incredible hotel to even the most discerning travelers coming to Medellin, Colombia.

Read Reviews on TripAdvisor | Check Prices and Availability

PRO TIP: Be sure to join Marriott Bonvoy Rewards before traveling to start earning points and receiving valuable loyalty benefits. I would also strongly recommend picking up the Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card which will amplify your benefits in a big way and get you set up for free nights at some of their luxury properties around the world. Understanding the basics of travel hacking and maximizing your points and miles (without overthinking it) can mean saving thousands of dollars on your next trip. I have easily saved well over $1,000 on individual stays, multiple times!

Read Next: Travel Hacking 101

Did you enjoy this review of the Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta? Take a second to share it on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest!

Thanks to OXOHotel and the Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta for hosting me on this, allowing me to bring more in-depth content to those visiting Medellin, Colombia.

The article Fairfield by Marriott Medellin Sabaneta: Affordable and Upscale first appeared on Desk to Dirtbag.

In this article, we will talk a little bit about Clarksdale, the best places to stay, what makes Travelers Hotel special, and a few alternatives to consider, including a small Clarksdale Hostel. Let’s dive into it!

About Clarksdale MS

You’ll be forgiven for not having heard of Clarksdale, Mississippi. It’s a small town in a remote corner of one of the least popular states for tourists to visit — which is a total shame! Mississippi is a place that truly surprised me, and Clarksdale was my favorite town during my brief visit through the north.

If you didn’t know, Mississippi is the birthplace of American Music. Clarksdale sits in the heart of the Mississippi Delta which is the birthplace of Blues music, the only music that has been recognized as being truly original to the United States. It was here in Clarksdale, Mississippi where Blues legend Robert Johnson supposedly sold his soul to the devil to become the best guitar player, right at the Crossroads.

The Blues, of course, gave birth to rock ‘n roll, gospel, country, and so much of the music that we listen to today. Chances are you can trace the influences of your favorite artists of today back to their roots in Blues and the Mississippi Delta. Highway 61 runs right through Clarksdale, a road that rivals Route 66 in the Americana Lore and which was pivotal in the American music scene.

This would be an ideal place to swing through if you’re on an epic cross-country road trip and traveling through Mississippi.

Looking beyond the music history from yesteryear, the music scene is still alive and thriving today in this deeply Southern city. You can find numerous festivals throughout the year and live music 365 days a year… Yes, every single night you can find live music at a bar, restaurant, cafe, back alley, or juke joint here in Clarksdale, MS. 

Clarksdale and the Mississippi Delta is truly a music lover’s destination vacation!

Places to Stay in Clarksdale MS

Clarksdale is a pretty small town, so almost anywhere you stay, you’re going to be fairly close to the beating musical heart of the city. There aren’t a ton of hotels in Clarksdale, MS, but you’ll find old standby’s like the Quality Inn or Hampton Inn on the outskirts of the city, along a major highway, next to chain restaurants and big-box stores. 

Those places are fine when you’re just passing through and need a place to lay your weary head while on a road trip, but you will miss the charm and what makes Clarksdale a special place if you stay here and don’t go looking for it. My recommendation is almost always to stay in the heart of historic downtown when you’re traveling to a new place, and this town is no exception if you’re trying to find where to stay in Clarksdale, MS.

The historic downtown of Clarksdale is where you will find the main music joints, local restaurants, vibrant street art, trendy coffee shops, and mom-and-pop stores. All of these places are what make Clarksdale memorable, and if you stay in one of the bigger hotel chains on the outskirts of town, then you’ll be about a 30-minute walk to all of this (I think the best way to experience a new place is on foot).

Travelers Hotel in Clarksdale, MS

This unique boutique hotel is located in the heart of the historic downtown of Clarksdale, MS. You are just a few minutes’ walk from the famous Ground Zero Blues Club (owned by Morgan Freeman), the Delta Blues Museum, and great places to have a drink or grab a bite to eat.

Travelers Hotel is a small, independent hotel with just 20 rooms in a former bare-bones overnight stop for railroad workers beginning in the 1920s. The first floor was also home to the Clarksdale Printing Co. until the 1990s but then it sat vacant for thirty years. 

Today, the space has been renovated into a minimalist, industrialist chic boutique hotel with all the comforts you need in a hotel, and nothing you don’t.

Travelers Hotel is an initiative by the nonprofit Coahoma Collective to help revitalize the historic downtown. Like many small towns across the United States, Clarksdale suffered many years of outward migration as people headed to the big cities.

The hotel owner and Clarksdale native, Chuck Rutledge, was inspired by a New York Times Op-Ed titled A Way for Artists to Live which detailed the trials and tribulations of opening a collectively owned and operated B&B in Brooklyn. On a page out of the same book, Travelers Hotel was born in Clarksdale. 

Travelers Hotel is run by a collective of artists in residence who come to Clarksdale and operate the hotel along with the nearby Collective Seed & Supply Co. with flexible hours (~25 hours per week) in exchange for lodging and a small stipend for living expenses, allowing these artists to focus more of their time on doing what they love: ART!

I love the idea of this revitalization effort and it reminds me of similar efforts like Tulsa Remote which incentivizes digital nomads to take a chance there while offering a much-improved work/life balance which so many of us lack.

Read More: Reimagining Remote Work and Startup Cities

Patronizing local businesses and doing so in a way that supports a local artist collective is a huge reason to support a place like Travelers Hotel Clarksdale.

This type of arrangement brings cool, notable places to stay in the heart of a historic downtown that had no lodging options and gives artists a way to make ends meet while still having time to pursue their craft, whether that is art in the form of painting, writing, music, or a myriad of other mediums that draw people to Clarksdale.

From the music on the streets to the funky shops, the town oozes creativity and I’m so glad to see a project like this embody it. This feels like a fresh new take on the book Real Artists Don’t Starve by Jeff Goins.

The Travelers Hotel model has since expanded into New Orleans, Louisiana with a similar artist-run collective model. Hopefully, I will get the chance to visit that one someday soon — New Orleans has long been on my list.

Inside Travelers Hotel Clarksdale

Travelers Hotel sits in a quaint two-story brick building along 3rd Street in Historic Downtown Clarksdale, Mississippi. Walking through the doors, you’re met with an industrial-chic lobby which serves as a social or common area for this small hotel.

The hotel is unique in that there is no true reception in the lobby. You will be greeted by the staff made up of one of the co-op artists, but normally guest access is controlled by a pin code activated smart lock in the after-hours entrance. These smart codes also control access to each guest room — a little more on that later.

On the first floor, there are several communal sitting areas, including a large L-shaped couch accompanied by a freestanding vintage Malm fireplace (my dad had one of these!). There is also a cool, self-serve bar where you can serve yourself some local and regional beers from Mississippi. The bar is on the honor system, so you just mark yourself down for the beverages you consumed.

There is also a kitchen area where you will find an awesome coffee machine with beans from Meraki, a local craft coffee shop just a few blocks from the hotel. While the lobby coffee machine is great, don’t miss out on visiting the coffee shop too. Like Travelers, Meraki is a force for good in that it is a workforce development program that supports the parent non-profit, Griot Arts. 

On the first floor of Travelers Hotel, there are seven rooms, and another 13 rooms on the second floor, up the industrial metal staircase.

Inside the Rooms at Travelers Hotel

You’ll find a variety of rooms available at Travelers Hotel, including some with bunk beds, a corner suite, double beds, and so forth, but they all share a similar style and aesthetic that draws on that history and background as a simple but functional overnight stop for the railroad workers.

The property has been restored and renovated, of course, so we don’t have to deal with the shared bathrooms as the original users once did. Today, you’ll find each room has a private bathroom, with a sink outside the bathroom, calling back to those railroad days.

The rooms are minimalistic and elegant, with rustic patina on the walls that show the age of the property and feel like something out of the Old World in Europe or a colonial town in Latin America. I quite dug the vibe, to be honest.

The rooms are well-appointed but minimalistic. You won’t find any TVs here in the room. You’re better off experiencing a Clarksdale — walking the streets, visiting local restaurants, taking in the local music. Or just hanging out in the common areas on the first floor with a local brew! This place attracts guests from all over the world, truly — lots of European blues fans.

Rooms do have air conditioning (a must for those Mississippi summers) and you will also find large refillable bottles for the toiletries, rather than the small disposable bottles, which I’m glad to see more and more hotels doing away with to avoid the plastic waste and garbage.

The rooms have a small desk area for those who might need to get some work done, along with numerous outlets (including modern USB connections), and a fast WiFi that gave me no problems.

The only issue I had during my stay was getting locked out of my room when my room’s smart lock died deader than dead. Chuck, the owner, had to come and fight with the thing and eventually had to switch me to another room for the night. Kind of a weird, freak occurrence because the lock wouldn’t even respond to an external battery as it normally should. So it was certainly more the fault of the manufacturer, Yale, than it was Travelers Hotel.

All-in-all, the rooms are nice and comfortable, the hotel is chic and cool, and the location really can’t be beaten for Clarksdale. Plus, I found Clarksdale to be the absolute highlight of our trip through Mississippi. It’s a small town with a lotta life. I loved the vibrant music scene, the delicious Southern food, and the sheer amount of street art. You gotta visit this place to truly understand. 

Reviews on Trip Advisor | Check Prices and Availability

Other Notable Hotels in Clarksdale

Of course, Travelers Hotel isn’t the only game in town, but it is probably the best location. If you want to compare others, here are a few notable places to check out:

• Shack Up Inn: Quirky place about four miles outside downtown where you can stay in individual sharecroppers’ cabins on expansive farming grounds.
• Riverside Hotel: A place of great historical importance to the Blues, but currently not in operation. It sits near the Sunflower River and was the place where legend Bessie Smith died after injuries from a car wreck.
• Auberge Hostel: Clarksdale’s only hostel! They offer dormitories and private rooms, the perfect place if you want to save some money and have that social aspect of a hostel. Like Travelers, they have another location in New Orleans, as well.

Learn More About the South

Before you go, maybe pick up a book or two to learn more about the area?

• The Warmth of Other Suns: a book detailing the great migration of African Americans from Mississippi and other places in the south to the northern cities like Chicago, New York, etc.
• Dispatches from Pluto: a humorous travel book written by a Brit by way of New York who moved to the Mississippi Delta.

Special thanks to Visit Mississippi, Visit Clarksdale, and Travelers Hotel for hosting me on this trip.

The article One of the Coolest Places to Stay in Clarksdale MS: Travelers Hotel first appeared on Desk to Dirtbag.

Space 220 is a new restaurant that opened at Disney’s EPCOT near the end of 2021 after facing delays for a few years due to the pandemic. One day I happened across a video of the restaurant on social media and thought it was awesome and something that I’d love to do! Fast forward just a few months later and a last-minute trip to Orlando materialized very unexpectedly since my travel between Memphis and Medellin would take me through Orlando rather than Miami (which is the norm).

It was also unplanned because it was Mother’s Day weekend, so I invited my mom to meet me down in Florida and we had an action-packed long weekend in Orlando. When I realized we would be in Orlando, I knew that trying to visit and eat at Space 220 was near the top of my list, and it would let me see a new park, EPCOT, that I’d never been to before.

Just one problem… The trip was only a few weeks away and there were no reservations available for Space 220 restaurant during our trip. I was bummed! But I was still looking forward to exploring EPCOT, even though I had no idea what to expect… EPCOT left me pleasantly surprised! And being able to get into Space 220 at the last minute was the highlight of the day.

Space 220 Reservations

As I mentioned, we weren’t able to get reservations. You should try to get reservations if Space 220 is a priority on your visit to Orlando. Most people plan an Orlando vacation months out which means that tables can be filled for the next few months. There are however a couple of tricks that you should know about (which I didn’t realize until we were already there).

First, if your entire party is over 21, you can ask to sit at the bar. This is on a first-come, first-serve basis, meaning you will probably have to wait in line to grab a seat. You get the same experience as guests with reservations in terms of the elevator ride and the awesome view of the earth. Not only that, but lounge seating provides more flexibility in terms of dining because you can order a la carte options, the prix fixe at the restaurant, or just order some cocktails.

Second, you can usually score walk-up tickets for dining as well. There will often be last-minute cancellations or no-shows, so it is always worth asking! This is what we ended up doing and they were able to seat us immediately. This is easier for smaller parties (it was just the two of us). But remember, if you have any guests under 21, then you will need to be seated in the restaurant, not the lounge.

Arriving at Space 220

Space 220 is located in the World Discovery section of EPCOT, located beside the Mission: SPACE attraction. Side note, Mission: SPACE is very cool and worth doing, you feel 2.5 G’s on the Orange Team as you rocket to Mars, a much more convincing experience even compared to Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Experience ride.

We did Mission: SPACE Orange Team first (they also offer Green Team for a less intense experience) and then walked over to the Space 220 restaurant to inquire about lunch. Thankfully we were able to get right in, somewhat unexpectedly and we weren’t even starving at this point, it was more just to ask. But I jumped at the opportunity since I thought it would be a very memorable Mother’s Day lunch.

The entrance itself is a bit non-descript but you enter a lobby area where you receive your ticket to the Centauri Space Station 220 miles above the earth. But the real journey was about to begin…

Space 220 Elevator and Arrival

Guests then board the elevator, called a Stellarvator, in small groups for the ride up to the station. Designers of the attraction consulted with NASA about the logistics. The idea of a space elevator is sci-fi but based in reality in some perhaps not so distant future (which is the central premise of EPCOT).

A true space geek will critique that a space elevator would have to be nearer the equator or could never operate at that speed, but with a small suspension of disbelief, the whole experience is quite convincing. In terms of the altitude above earth, it is pretty similar to the ISS (International Space Station) which orbits about 227 miles above the earth, compared to the Inspiration4 mission which orbited at around 360 miles.

Inside the space elevator, a porthole opens above and below you and the elevator begins to lift off from EPCOT as you see the park begin to grow smaller in the window. The speed picks up quickly and you begin to pass through the clouds. In a few moments you look up and the Centauri Space Station comes into view in the porthole above.

Upon disembarking from the elevator you walk through a corridor that includes off-shooting branches of the space station where they have a gently rotating greenhouse for vegetables.

A cast member soon greets you to take your boarding ticket and then escorts you through their futuristic wine cellar and to your table.

Space 220 Menu and Dining

You are immediately greeted by the large windows overlooking the earth inside of a convincingly retro-futuristic concept of a space station, very fitting for EPCOT. The entire restaurant feels like something pulled out of Star Wars or Star Trek.

We were escorted to a window seat on the lower deck, which was a pretty great seat, although I believe the tables from the second deck offer a fuller view of the earth below. I have seen some complain that window seats along the edges of the restaurant offer very obstructed views, but ours was quite nice and we felt lucky to get it at the last minute.

Our waiter was very prompt in greeting us. He explained a bit more about the Prix Fixe menu which was $55 per person for lunch or $79 per person for dinner. We were there for lunch. Prices are a bit high, but lunch includes one appetizer each and one main dish, as well as soda. Alcoholic drinks or specialty drinks are extra.

While the prices are a bit high, it isn’t too bad when you compare it to other dining options in the parks. Here you get sit-down dining with full service including an appetizer and main course. For a burger, fries, and a coke elsewhere you would still spend almost half that and still have to fight for a seat somewhere.

Plus this is experiential dining aboard a space station! It’s part attraction, part lunch. The dinner menu is also Prix Fixe and is nearly the same as lunch but includes a dessert for each person in addition to the appetizer and main.

Dining options on the prix fixe menu include several great choices for modern American cuisine. Among the appetizers, called Lift Offs here, you will find space named things like the Big Bang Burrata, Starry Calamari, Blue Moon Cauliflower, Neptuna Tartare, Space Greens, Centauri Caesar Salad, and so forth.

Check out the latest Space 220 menu here.

I opted for the Big Bang Burrata which had burrata cheese among mixed greens and a tasty red marinara sauce. My mom went for the Starry Calamari which was properly prepared, quite tender, and not at all chewy like you sometimes find with calamari. It included two dipping sauces: a nice spicy marinara and a citrus aioli.

For the main dishes, called Star Courses, you will find salmon, tuna, burgers, pasta, steak, and similar options. I went for the Steak & Frites which had a deliciously crusted coffee-rubbed steak served with a generous portion of fries. I loved it and had no complaints!

My mom went with the Galactic Salmon served with glazed carrots, baby bok choy, and mushrooms. We didn’t know that it was a popular dish to grab video of, but our waiter gave us the heads up. It comes served under a glass bowl full of smoke. The smoke imparts a deep delicious flavor to the salmon that is very reminiscent of smoked salmon (but not dry, obviously).

We didn’t order dessert (called Super Nova Sweets) or alcoholic drinks (called Atmospheric Spirits), because we were stuffed by the time our two-course meal was done.

In a sense, eating this much wasn’t ideal because EPCOT is a foodie destination where you can eat tons of different little things from all over the world at the aptly named World Showcase section of the park. We had to walk around for a few hours to try and work up an appetite to try some of those other amazing bites.

While eating, you can’t help but have your eyes drawn to the beautiful earth below. The earth isn’t spinning below you, of course, as it would on the International Space Station because the Centauri Space Station is fixed to the earth directly (via the space elevator) above Florida.

The earth simulates either night or day depending on what time you are visiting. They took pains to also accurately simulate the local weather in Orlando when you are zooming up the space elevator (if it is sunny, cloudy, raining, etc).

Outside the windows you will also frequently see space ships coming and going from the space station, astronauts doing spacewalks, satellites zipping by and all sorts of fun stuff. There are all sorts of convincing details around the space station like signs warning about the loss of gravity or showing space suits on the figures for the bathroom signs. There are even Easter eggs with astronauts with lightsabers or X-Wings, so keep your eyes open!

The sensation of looking out of a window toward the earth is pretty convincing. I loved the ambiance!

Leaving the Space Station

We never felt rushed to leave the restaurant, which was a pleasant surprise. Indeed, we took our time and even got some pictures taken on the steps overlooking the earth to remember this special mother’s day.

EPCOT is the best foodie destination in Orlando and for me, a bit of a space nerd, this place certainly didn’t disappoint. A big part of it is the entrance and overlooking the earth with the whole simulated space thing. The food itself was great, in my opinion, but the real draw for me was the ambiance and the feeling or idea of it all. It was an unforgettable dining experience, to be honest.

To leave, you head back out the same way you came: boarding the space elevator in a small group and zipping back down to earth, this time watching the space station grow smaller and seeing Florida growing in the window below, passing the clouds, and zooming back down to EPCOT.

Space 220 Final Thoughts

If you appreciate space at all, I think this space-themed restaurant is a must-do when you’re in Florida (among some of the other futuristic attractions at EPCOT, visiting Kennedy Space Center, and seeing a real rocket launch). It is one of those places that is worth going to once for the experience alone.

Who knows? Maybe someday we will have a real space elevator and you can say you experienced it here first at Disney’s EPCOT.

One addition I would love to see would be a direct link between Mission: SPACE and the Space 220 Restaurant. Even NASA astronauts have said that Mission: SPACE orange is one of the most convincing launch simulations they’ve felt besides the real thing. How cool would it be to blast off there and dock at the Centauri Space Station for lunch then take the space elevator down? Just an idea!

In any case, I’d recommend doing Mission: SPACE before you dine at Space 220. There is a possibility for motion sickness and a bit of stress with the 2.5 G’s experienced.

All-in-all, I really enjoyed visiting EPCOT and thought that Space 220 was a highlight of the day, for sure. I love the idea that they can bring fantastical, futuristic concepts down to earth and make them accessible to all of us. Even if these ideas aren’t real (yet), they show the promise and possibility of the future, a time not too far removed from our own.

If you’re planning a trip to Orlando or Walt Disney World, I highly recommend planning a visit to Space 220 for an unforgettable and out-of-this-world dining experience unlike any other.

Read Next: Planning an Orlando Family Vacation

The article Space 220 Restaurant: Out-of-This-World Dining at Disney’s EPCOT first appeared on Desk to Dirtbag.

There are many reasons why, which is what we will get into here, but the bottom line is that this credit card offers the most bang for the buck and is the most accessible and most versatile travel card for virtually any type of traveler.

Some people refer to it as a beginner’s travel hacking credit card, but I don’t think that is entirely accurate. It is an excellent choice for beginners but it is also a card that I keep around and it is my primary credit card for most purchases no matter where I am in the world. Let’s get into the reasons why I think the Chase Sapphire Preferred is the best travel credit card.

Table of Contents

• Generous Chase Sapphire Preferred Sign Up Bonus
• Reasonable Annual Fee of $95
• Solid Bonus Categories for Spending
• 10% Anniversary Bonus Points
• Chase Sapphire Preferred Transferrable Points
• Family of No-Fee Credit Cards
• Primary Rental Car Coverage
• Travel Insurance Protection
• $50 Annual Hotel Credit
• Final Thoughts

Generous Chase Sapphire Preferred Sign Up Bonus

This is the big reason why you should sign up for the Chase Sapphire Preferred (CSP) in the first place. The signup bonus is typically 60,000 points for meeting the minimum spend requirement within three months of account opening, which is a cashback dollar equivalent of $600 or $750 in travel bookings when using the Chase travel portal (1.25 cents per point).

For a limited time, they have increased the offer to 80,000 points which means an equivalent to $1,000 in travel bookings (whether flights, hotels, etc). You can get even more value out of your Chase points, but we will get into that later. SIGN UP NOW

To receive the signup bonus, you will need to spend $4,000 in three months, which can be a steep proposition for some people, so you have to take advantage of the offer when you know you have large upcoming purchases (whether that is buying a new computer, paying taxes, car repairs, home renovation, existing travel plans, etc).

This sign-up bonus is larger than the Chase Sapphire Reserve, a premium travel card prized by many travel hackers.

Just meeting the signup bonus means you will save at least $1,000 on a future trip, if not more, so it is worth putting a little planning into and is very much worth the effort ensuring that you meet the minimum spend requirement on this valuable offer.

Read More: How to Start Travel Hacking

Reasonable Annual Fee of $95

All of the best travel hacking credit cards will have an annual fee associated with them. Some of the more high-end credit cards have fees over $500 per year, which can be hard to justify for many users who doubt whether they can truly maximize their returns and get that value back out of the card. The Chase Sapphire Preferred is a much more palatable $95 per year (the equivalent of just $7.91 per month).

Even if you don’t count the generous signup bonus offer, it is still very easy to get $95 worth of value from this credit card each year, especially when you consider one of the newer perks of the card that we will get into a little later.

Solid Bonus Categories for Spending

You will earn Chase Ultimate Rewards Points with every purchase you make, which means that $1 spent equals 1 point in your account, but several bonus categories will multiply your benefits even more for each dollar spent.

The big categories with the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, for me, are travel spending (5x points when using the Chase Travel portal, or 2x points on all other travel purchases), and dining out spending (3x points per dollar).

The dining category includes things like sit-down restaurants, of course, but also fast food, coffee shops, and similar establishments. Bear in mind that it applies to overseas destinations too when using your credit card, and like any good travel credit card, there are no foreign transaction fees while abroad.

Other bonus categories with the Chase Sapphire Preferred include 3x points on online grocery stores (excluding Target, Walmart, and wholesale clubs), 3x Ultimate Rewards points on select streaming services, and 2x Ultimate Rewards points on all other travel purchases.

You should always try to find a travel credit card with categories that match your existing spending patterns. For me, dining out and traveling are the ideal places to get bonus points. You’d be surprised at fast they can add up just from restaurant purchases.

I will mention that it is always best to use the Chase Travel Portal for travel reservations so you can get the generous 5x points, but you won’t always find all the truly available travel options. The platform uses Orbitz as a backbone, but there are many budget airlines or locations that don’t appear there and I sometimes need to use other booking portals like Momondo or Kayak. Unfortunately, those types of travel purchases only earn 2x points.

10% Anniversary Bonus Points

Every year you will also receive a bonus of 10% of your annual spending in terms of points. It is a nice little boost at the end of the year and probably an incentive to renew the card. For example, if you spend $10,000 throughout the entire year on your credit card, you will receive a bonus of 1,000 points at the end of your membership year.

Again, this anniversary bonus isn’t huge, but it is a nice bit of icing on the cake that reduces the impact of the annual fee. Of course, if you’re a big spender, you can get an even better anniversary bonus that might drastically reduce the actual fee for you.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Transferrable Points

Chase Ultimate Rewards Points are pretty valuable by themselves. As mentioned earlier, you get a 25% bonus on your points (1.25 cents per point) when using the Chase Travel Portal, meaning that 80,000 points would be the equivalent to $1,000 when utilizing the portal. As a side note, the Chase Sapphire Reserve has a 50% bonus (1.5 cents per point), meaning those same 80,000 points would be worth $1,200.

BUT, what is particularly cool about the Chase Ultimate Rewards Points is that they can be transferred 1:1 to their travel partners which include various airlines and hotel chains. Transferring to outside partners is where you can get the most bang for your buck and receive far more than 1.25 or 1.5 cents per point. Indeed, it would be quite easy to get double that if you use them for first-class or business class flights or in luxury hotels or resort properties around the world.

This all sounds far-fetched to someone who has never done it before, but it is very real, very valuable, and very cool. It also isn’t nearly as complicated as you may think it is.

You can see the full list of travel partners where you can transfer points, but the big ones are the likes of United Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest, Emirates, and British Airways in the world of airlines, and Hyatt, IHG, and Marriott in the world of hotels.

As an example, it was thanks to Marriott Bonvoy points that we got free stays at the Santa Marta Playa Dormida Resort for five nights or staying in Manhattan for five nights.

Important: Sign up for the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program and be sure to get a Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card to get your first free nights and unlock additional rewards, including welcome gifts, room upgrades, extra points, faster WIFI, and other benefits. Read: How to Stay in Luxury Hotels for Free.

Remember, all airlines belong to an alliance, so you can use those same United Airlines points to book flights to destinations that United doesn’t fly to themselves directly. There are occasional points transfer bonuses too, where you can get even more distance out of your miles.

Family of No-Fee Credit Cards

The Chase Sapphire Preferred card itself is valuable but you can maximize your point earning potential by signing up for one or more of Chase’s family of Ultimate Rewards cards, none of which require an annual fee. Those cards without the Sapphire Preferred are much less valuable, it is only with the addition of a premium card like the Sapphire Preferred that cardholders can get the true value of their points.

The main cards for personal use are the Chase Freedom Flex and the Chase Freedom Unlimited. The Freedom Flex offers 5x points per dollar on rotating quarterly categories from things like gas stations, grocery stores, Amazon.com, and others.

While Freedom Unlimited offers 1.5x points per dollar on any purchase irrespective of category. These cards are great to keep in your wallet if you want to maximize every dollar you spend. Use the Chase Sapphire Preferred for dining and travel, the Freedom Flex for any purchase within that quarterly category, and the Freedom Unlimited for anything else.

If you can utilize business credit cards, you could also sign up for the no annual fee Chase Business Unlimited and Chase Business Cash cards which also have generous signup bonuses (stagger your cards out over time). You can qualify for a business card if you have any sort of side hustle… You don’t need to be a business owner.

Pro Tip: Signup for the Freedom Flex and Unlimited after signing up for the Chase Sapphire Preferred.

Primary Rental Car Coverage

If you use the Chase Sapphire Preferred card to pay in full for your car rental, you can decline the rental company’s collision insurance. The CSP provides primary coverage and reimbursement up to the full cost of the rental vehicle in the event of theft or damage. This coverage is incredibly valuable and can save you substantial money (and peace of mind) if you have any upcoming travels that require a car rental.

Be sure to read the Chase Sapphire Preferred Guide to Benefits for the full details, but this coverage should cover you in most standard car rental circumstances. It is nice to not have to pay the additional $15-30 per day for CDW coverage with the car rental company. Remember to place the entire rental charge on this card, have the rental in your name, and decline the car company’s CDW coverage.

Having primary rental car coverage with your credit card will save you hundreds of dollars on car rentals or even thousands if things go wrong!

Travel Insurance Protection

Plenty can go wrong during a trip, believe me, I know. But one underappreciated and underutilized benefit of a premium travel credit card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred is having extra coverage in the event of trip delays, cancellations, or lost baggage. It doesn’t happen often, but when it does, it is nice to have that safety net.

Trip cancellation coverage will cover you up to $5,000 per trip if you must cancel travel plans due to events out of your control like illness, injury, severe weather, etc.

Trip delay protection with the card includes benefits up to $500 per ticket if you have delays greater than 12 hours and need to purchase things like food, hotel stays, toiletries, etc.

There is also coverage for baggage delay or lost baggage that will help you replace things you need during your trip, and can even cover damaged luggage.

There are even pay-per-use services such as roadside assistance and travel/emergency assistance on a trip, all of which can help make your world a lot easier if things go wrong.

Of course, if you’re traveling abroad, it is also very important to purchase additional travel medical coverage through the likes of World Nomads or SafetyWing. This is different from travel protection in that it covers you in the event of a medical emergency overseas and might require hospital, medical care, or even surgery. Don’t forget this!

Read More: What to Look for with International Travel Insurance

$50 Annual Hotel Credit

Finally, one of the newest perks to be added to the Chase Sapphire Preferred is a generous $50 annual hotel credit on purchases made through the Chase Travel Portal. It is quite generous because you can cover more than half the price of the annual fee just with one hotel reservation.

All you need to do is enter the Chase Travel Portal, search for a hotel, and to decline to use your points while booking which will send the charge to your Chase Sapphire Credit Card. The $50 hotel credit will post typically within a few days or checkout (if it is a short-term reservation) or within a billing statement if the reservation is more long-term.

This $50 hotel credit will apply whether the hotel night costs $50 exactly or $500, either way, the statement credit will post if you reserve through the portal.

Final Thoughts

Again, the Chase Sapphire Preferred is one of the best travel credit cards out there, for sure! It is a versatile card that can be taken advantage of by most people whether you are traveling once a month or just once a year.

I’d say that unless you are a frequent flier then this card is superior to the Chase Sapphire Reserve with its steep $550 annual fee (that one does have a nice airport lounge perk). The CSP card is a workhorse travel credit card that will easily pay for itself over and over with a little effort.

I hope I’ve adequately shown why I always keep this card in my wallet. It has saved me thousands of dollars in free vacations, rental coverage protection, and even fees and commissions since I can rely on this card for virtually all my spending while traveling overseas.

Of course, you’ve also got fraud protection and other benefits associated with a Visa card that you’re probably already aware of.

Sign Up Now for the Chase Sapphire Preferred Now

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Read Next: Best Travel Credit Cards

Get Started Travel Hacking

Travel hacking is quite simply the best way to reduce your travel expenses, travel on a budget, or even just to take a free vacation every year.

Print

Tools

Travel Hacking Credit Cards

• Best Travel Credit Cards
• Chase Sapphire Credit Card
• Chase Marriott Card

Stay Organized

• Mint.com
• Google Calendar
• Award Wallet

Learn More About Travel Hacking

• What is Travel Hacking?
• Big Travel Small Budget

Instructions

1. You should already have a good handle on the fundamentals of personal finance, including not carrying a balance on any consumer debt before you get started. Free travel via travel hacking ONLY makes sense if you aren’t paying high interest to get it! Review my article about conquering debt if you need it.
2. Identify your travel goals and timeline, including whether you are targeting free flights or free hotel stays to start with, what airline network best services either your local airport or your dream vacation.
3. Find the best credit cards for travel hacking that will help you meet your goals. I love the Barclay AAdvantage, Chase Sapphire, and Chase Marriott Rewards cards.
4. Apply for your new credit card before any big expenses (existing travel, electronics, auto repairs, taxes, etc) and put all of your recurring bills or other expenses onto the new card. Read more about credit card minimum spend tricks.
5. Put a note on your calendar 11 months from now about the upcoming annual fee, this will ensure that you can call to either cancel or downgrade the card before the fee hits if you want. I use Google Calendar for this.
6. Sign up for Mint.com (free) to track your spending on this new credit card to ensure that you meet the minimum spend. Mint is also a great way to help manage your personal finances in general.
7. Join Award Wallet to keep track of your points and miles across all loyalty programs to ensure that you don’t forget about them and accidentally let them expire.
8. Keep maximizing your point earnings by joining airline dining programs, using the airline shopping portals, and double-dipping on points by buying gift cards for upcoming purchases.
9. Enjoy your travel hacking lifestyle and the ensuing free vacations! WARNING: it will make you NEVER want to pay full price again in the future. 

Notes

I hope this helped you get started travel hacking! I know it can be confusing when you are just getting started, which is why I started writing so extensively about it!

If you have any questions about travel hacking, budget travel, or anything else shoot me an email at ryan@desktodirtbag.com.

(I love getting questions! That is how I get ideas for my blog posts and what to write about!)

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The article 9 Reasons the Chase Sapphire Preferred is the Best Travel Credit Card first appeared on Desk to Dirtbag.

The Santa Marta Marriott Resort Playa Dormida offers a luxurious escape for travelers looking for a bit of beach, sun, and pool time. This Colombia beach resort only opened recently and offers some pretty incredible amenities at totally accessible prices. Read on for more details about our five nights at this incredible beach resort conveniently located near Santa Marta’s Simon Bolivar Airport.

Reservations and Booking

This Santa Marta hotel offers standard rooms from about $175-200 per night, the Junior Suite for around $240 per night, and the oceanfront bedroom suite with a private jacuzzi on the balcony for around $340 per night. These were the lowest regular rate prices I was seeing, although they can go up significantly from there depending on whether you are visiting during high or low season.

Check Prices and Availability

Speaking of the high and low seasons, the busiest months for travel to Santa Marta are definitely December/January and June/July. This is typically when local Colombians have breaks to travel from either school or work and the December/January period also coincides with the best weather window for visiting the coast. This high travel season sees a lot of demand all across the coast as Colombians fly in from the big interior cities like Bogota or Medellin.

The rainy season in Santa Marta runs from approximately April to October, which seems like a long time, but it is not usually a full bore, non-stop rain. For instance, we visited in May and had a bit of drizzly weather a few days but nothing that impeded us from doing anything. The rain usually just came and went relatively quick.

Read More: The Best Time to Visit Colombia

August to October tend to be the rainiest months in terms of days of rain though, so do keep that in mind. The entirety of the rainy season does mean, however, that you are more likely to encounter cloudy or overcast skies which means that the ocean doesn’t look quite as blue and pretty, but on the plus side, you’re more likely to get some spectacular sunsets.

The property is right on the ocean and faces west, so you get direct views of the sunsets from your balcony. A bit of cloud cover isn’t always a bag thing though because Santa Marta is HOT with daily temperatures around 90 degrees or 32 degrees Celsius, and if you spend much time on the beach or around the pool, you’ve got a good chance of getting sunburned like me!

I’ve been racking up the Marriott Bonvoy points lately so our five-night stay was completely free! In the end, it cost 94,000 Marriott Bonvoy points to redeem at this property for five nights, which is an incredible deal compared to what you’d find for comparably priced properties in the United States or elsewhere… Here, you get an ocean-front resort with unbeatable views, multiple dining options, a spa, beach access, and a big outdoor pool. More on all the amenities later.

Important: Sign up for the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program and be sure to get a Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card to get your first free nights and unlock additional rewards, including welcome gifts, room upgrades, extra points, faster WIFI, and other benefits. Read: How to Stay in Luxury Hotels for Free.

Location of Playa Dormida Santa Marta

The Santa Marta Marriott Resort Playa Dormida is located a short distance north of the Simon Bolivar International Airport in a newly developed area. This area has its pros and cons, and also one person’s pro could be another person’s con, so you should know what you’re getting when considering booking this resort property.

Located a short distance from the airport:

This makes it ideal for quick weekend getaways where you are located just a 10-15 minutes drive from the airport. Taxis charge around 25,000 pesos between the resort and the airport, which is steep for Colombia, but prices are fixed here and Uber has been blocked from use in the area.

At the same time, you do have planes passing overheard with some frequency at certain times of the day. They aren’t too noticeable when you’re inside your room and they never woke us up. But when you’re outside by the pool or on the beach, they can be pretty loud. They are cool to see taking off and landing though, in my opinion.

Playa Dormida Location:

The resort is located in an area called Playa Dormida, which is adjacent to the larger area known as Playa Bello Horizonte. Again, this is a newer area of development, south of the more popular beach resort sector known as El Rodadero.

You can easily walk along the beach to the north along Bello Horizonte, although you can’t pass a break known as Cabo Tortuga which divides Bello Horizonte from El Rodadero.

The hotel is located about 30 minutes from the city of Santa Marta, so if your main goal is to frequently take advantage of the many things to do in Santa Marta, then this location might not be best for you. A taxi ride into Santa Marta will cost around 30-35,000 pesos (~$10). Or you can organize tour outings directly with the hotel or with a site like Get Your Guide.

It is a short walk to Zazue Plaza which is a small mall where you will find several restaurants like Crepes and Waffles, El Corral, etc, as well as a Carulla grocery store which is a good choice to buy water and snacks if you want to save on resort pricing.

Don’t forget that you can also use Rappi, the delivery app, to order dinner, food, or even alcohol if you want to make drinks from your balcony at sunset — you can ask reception to send you up a bucket of ice.

Check-In at the Santa Marta Marriott Resort

The resort itself is located off the main highway between the airport and the city along a bumpy, potholed road that seems a bit strange at first, but then you remember that you’re on the Colombian coast and that’s just how things are. The driver will take you through a small security checkpoint that controls access to the property itself and leave you at the valet parking in front of the hotel.

Directly inside the lobby, you’ll find check-in where we were greeted promptly. The staff was friendly and polite, and because of my status with Marriott Bonvoy, we actually were upgraded to a Junior Suite at no additional cost, which was a very unexpected and pleasant surprise!

We were given the two-room key cards and a beach/pool towel card which you can exchange for huge towels to use at either the beach or pool. It was explained that you must present those cards again at checkout or face an additional charge for losing the towels/cards.

There are two elevator banks to the rooms above, one near the interior restaurant and another right in the lobby. The one in the lobby took us directly to our junior suite on the third floor. The building itself has seven floors of rooms, starting on the third floor.

The lobby is also decorated with local touches and materials, including displays of local indigenous woven hats and bags, and elements like bamboo around the walls that divide the various common areas. There is a small computer and business center located adjacent to a tour desk.

Our Room at the Santa Marta Marriott

Our Junior Suite was very spacious, with 1.5 bathrooms (one near the entrance/TV with a sink and toilet, and a full bath next to the bed), a sitting or TV area with a sofa bed, a large work desk and chair, an amazingly comfortable bed, and a large, double-size balcony looking toward the interior courtyard or pool area with a view of the ocean too, of course.

There really isn’t a bad guest room here as they all include a partial ocean view, albeit not direct but at an angle.

The room included a minibar/fridge stocked with lots of different drinks, beers, and water. There was a selection of snacks on hand too for a moderate mark-up compared to normal.

In terms of coffee in the room (always an important subject, for me!), they offer Juan Valdez individual serving pour-over packs. They offered two varieties: one from Huila and the other from the Sierra Nevada (more local to Santa Marta). The coffee from Huila is always really great, in my opinion, and we both really loved that one.

As mentioned the hotel is recently constructed so everything still is very new and nice with plenty of modern amenities like ample power connections, USB ports, etc.

The air conditioner worked great and kept us refreshed, although we would usually turn it off in the mornings and open the two sliding glass doors to the balcony for the fresh morning breeze.

The shower was a nice rain shower head with a handheld shower attachment as well. The toiletries in the room were the larger refillable bottles mounted inside the shower, rather than the old disposable little bottles which is a welcomed change in the industry as it turns toward more sustainable measures.

The balcony had two comfy chairs and a small table, which was tiny compared to the massive balcony. We frequently sat out there though, basically every morning and evening. The poolside rooms overlook neighboring condos across the courtyard.

The construction was all basically one complex in the same style but only one of the three buildings is a hotel, the others are condos. The condos and hotel are all separate though, with each having its own pool and beach areas.

It was nice to just sit out on the balcony with the smell of the sea, a light tropical breeze, and the sound of the birds like grackles and great kiskadees all about.

Santa Marta Marriott Resort Amenities

The Santa Marta Marriott Resort Playa Dormida has enough amenities to keep guests occupied and busy for a few days, for sure, particularly since most that come here are looking for a relaxing beach getaway. The two principal amenities are the pool and beach zones.

The pool is spacious with the normal deepish end and a shallow kids section. All around the pool you will find a ton of lounge chairs that only ever approached capacity on the weekend, a handful of tables with umbrellas, as well as cabanas that can be rented for the day for 80.000 pesos.

The cabanas will get you a bit of shade and respite from the sun, but you can also wisely select the lounge chairs near the bar where there are palm trees and plants for a bit more shade. I still got sunburned on our pool day though.

There is a poolside bar with waitstaff wandering around should you need any food or drinks. The menu poolside is basically the same as in the restaurants, they just bring it out to you there. More on dining options in a bit.

The beachside area is located just outside the hotel where you will find plastic chairs and beach umbrellas just steps from the lapping waves. You can get towels from either the pool area or the beach area.

It was SO nice to be at the ocean again and stick my toes in the sand and play in the waves. The beach here starts off shallow but gets deep pretty quick — the swimming area is cordoned off by buoys — but the waves are relatively calm here.

The downside of the beach are the locals selling things or offering services, everything from jewelry to clothes to massages to jet ski rentals. Most aren’t too pushy, but some can be, and they can get to be annoying due to the sheer number of them.

It was a lot more relaxed on weekdays and became a bit crazy on the weekends. That is the only downside, to be honest. I did buy some beers from the guys on the beach with coolers who sell the exact same beers but at half the price compared to the Marriott bar. It’s hard to believe they let them steal their business.

Also, the beach area closes promptly at 6pm with the local tourist police kicking everyone out of the water and beach — a bit strange, for sure, especially since you can’t just hang out on the beach chair to watch the sunset go down just after 6pm. Most people relocate over to the big pool which remains open until 9pm.

There is also the Seishua Spa where you can get massages or facials or things like that. Prices are reasonable, but certainly much higher than if you went off-site to a local business. But then again, the spa faces the ocean with views through the windows. While we were there, they had a promo for a 50-minute couples massage for around 400.000 pesos (~$100) which you could find for half that price elsewhere in Santa Marta, if you were inclined.

They’ve also got a small but well-appointed gym or fitness center located next to the Spa on the second floor if you want to get a workout in. We didn’t use either during our five-day stay though. They also have things like stand up paddle board rentals in the beach area and free games like foosball or ping pong around the property.

Dining & Nightlife

The resort has two dining options: 1525 which is a more elegant restaurant and Cayeye which has more of a beachside lounge vibe. Of course, they also have room service if that is more your style, from the same restaurants.

Both offer similar fare, including some local seafood options like shrimp and rice, fried catch of the day, ceviches, etc. They also have a variety of salads, chicken/meat dishes, pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches. Prices are on the high side for Colombia, generally speaking, but nothing too outrageous, and certainly cheap if compared to US prices.

In fact, I found the portions to be very generous for the price for the most part. You will find main dishes ranging from around 30-60.000 pesos. They offer local beers for about 10.000 pesos and cocktails for around 30.000 pesos.

The resort also offers regular events such as brunches and dinners (a so-called night brunch) as well as beach parties on the weekends. I highly recommend them if you’re there on a weekend!

On our last night, we went to the Cayeye Night Brunch which included buffet dining and bottomless margaritas or mojitos from 7pm – 10pm. They had live music from a local band playing covers of popular Spanish songs and had a pretty incredible spread of food on hand including sliders, sushi, pizza, local fried treats like Arepa de Huevo, Mexican inspired dishes like cochinita pibil or chips and guacamole, and a whole selection of desserts.

It was WAY MORE than I expected and left us both stuffed… It only cost 115.000 pesos per person (~$30) which was definitely worth it, especially when you consider the number of cocktails you can drink in three hours and how they normally cost about 30.000 each.

Then since it was a Saturday night, right after that event wrapped up at 10pm, they started their Chiringuito beach party with a DJ and drinks at the little beach bar. It’s a cute little spot that sits on the edge of the property between the hotel and the ocean waves, where around 20-30 of us hung out for the better part of the night dancing to merengue or salsa barefoot on the sandy beach dance floor.

Super cool, super fun, and highly recommended. I love that the resort puts in the effort to put on these amazing events for guests because the hotel is otherwise somewhat isolated from nightlife due to its location.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Santa Marta Marriott Resort Playa Dormida is among the most memorable and beautiful hotels I’ve ever stayed at, and certainly the most elegant I’ve stayed at in Colombia. It is truly an ideal location for those who want to escape from one of the big cities like Medellin or Bogota for a long weekend. It would be a worthwhile destination too if you’re coming from out of the country and want to visit a relaxing beach resort on Colombia’s Caribbean Coast.

I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending this incredible hotel to even the most discerning travelers coming to Colombia.

Read Reviews on TripAdvisor | Check Prices and Availability

PRO TIP: Be sure to join Marriott Bonvoy Rewards before traveling to start earning points and receiving valuable loyalty benefits. I would also strongly recommend picking up the Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card which will amplify your benefits in a big way and guarantee you a few free nights at some of their luxury properties around the world, whether you stay here in Santa Marta or not.

Understanding the basics of travel hacking and maximizing your points and miles (without overthinking it) can mean saving literally thousands of dollars on your next trip. As mentioned, this stay would have cost at least $1,250 out of pocket just for lodging, but it was free for us!

Read Next: Best Things to Do in Santa Marta, Colombia

Colombia Travel Tips

Important tips and resources for planning an amazing trip to Colombia, based on my years of traveling and living in Colombia.

Print

Tools

Colombia Trip Planning

• Lonely Planet Colombia
• Momondo Flight Search
• ViaHero Itinerary Planning
• Booking.com
• SafetyWing Travel Insurance
• Get Your Guide Tours

Instructions

1. Book a cheap flight to Colombia with Momondo, or better yet, start travel hacking so you can fly for free. Traveling between major cities is much better by flying, trust me.
2. Plan a rough itinerary and how long you will spend at each destination. Use an itinerary planning service for custom recommendations and pick up Lonely Planet Colombia.
3. Work a little every day to teach yourself Spanish, you'll want to know as much as possible before you arrive.
4. Book cheap accommodation in advance, at least for the first destinations -- For hostels use: Booking, for cheap hotels use: Hotels.com, for apartments use: Airbnb.
5. Reserve your on the ground tours and activities through Get Your Guide.
6. Purchase travel insurance for Colombia with SafetyWing to protect yourself from illness, injury, and theft while in Colombia. VERY important. And be sure to read my article: "Is Colombia Safe?" for my honest opinion and safety tips.
7. Sign up for my free emails about planning a better trip to Colombia, and be sure to check out my comprehensive guide about traveling to Colombia.
8. Learn more money-saving tricks with my top budget travel tips.
9. Put together your Colombia packing list.
10. Enjoy this incredible country!

Notes

I hope this helped you plan your travels in Colombia! I know it can be a struggle to find accurate and on the ground information when traveling to a new place like Colombia, which is why I started writing so extensively about it!

If you have any questions about Colombia, budget travel, or anything else shoot me an email at ryan@desktodirtbag.com.

(I love getting questions! That is how I get ideas for my blog posts and what to write about!)

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The article Best Colombia Beach Resorts: Marriott Santa Marta Playa Dormida first appeared on Desk to Dirtbag.

I’ve long been a proponent of geoarbitrage, whereby you make your dollars go further thanks to pricing, exchange rates, or the cost of living differences in various locales. This is where the idea of medical tourism comes from, whereby you can take a vacation while simultaneously doing the medical or dental procedures you needed done for what it would cost you to do them outright in the United States. It’s like a two-for-one deal that basically results in a free vacation.

Thankfully, eye glasses are a slightly different story since they are a small physical product that can be shipped straight to your door at home, but there are still ways to take advantage of geoarbitrage in this case. Let’s dive in and talk about how to save hundreds of dollars on your next pair of prescription eye glasses.

Getting a Cheap Eye Exam

Almost ten years ago, back when I was still living in Washington, D.C., I ended up getting Lasik eye surgery — it was pricey, but it was definitely worth it! Living without glasses for basically the first time in my adult life was amazing.

But I also knew that it wouldn’t last forever and as I was finishing up my long road trip through South America, I began to notice my long distance vision beginning to fail. Cue sad music. I realized it was probably time to invite my old friends, those prescription eye glasses, back into my life.

Now, if you’re getting an eye exam in the United States, you can expect to pay around $75 for a comprehensive exam without insurance from places like Wal-Mart, Costco, and similar retailers. That price isn’t terrible, especially when you consider that you’re likely to spend a few hundred dollars on the actual frames and prescription lenses, unless you know the tricks. Some of you may have insurance that will cover the annual eye exam, but many of us aren’t so lucky, and regardless, you’ll still end up paying big for the glasses.

There’s no getting around it, you’re going to need an eye exam to be able to purchase cheap prescription eye glasses. The only real trick here is if you have an upcoming international trip in the near future, you can knock out a quick eye exam in many countries for shockingly cheap.

Obviously, you wouldn’t want to plan a trip solely for that, but if it works out, it works out. For example, I paid less than $10 for my eye exam in Colombia. Some may be worried about getting a shoddy exam or whatever in a poor or developing country, but honestly, my exam was indistinguishable from any other exam I had in my life. You can find expat forums online for recommendations or rely on things like Google and online reviews.

Regardless of where you get your exam, you want to be able to walk out the door with a copy of your prescription. The numbers on the paper may seem like a bunch of mumbo jumbo, but you can easily make sense of them with the help of Google and the Internet.

The one extra thing you need to make sure your prescription includes is your Pupillary Distance (PD) which measures where you look through the lens of your glasses. Now, some exams places are reluctant to include the PD measurement because they know you can easily take your prescription elsewhere and purchase online, so you should try to insist, or in a worst case scenario you can measure it yourself with a simple printout. My eye exam included it without having to ask.

Buy Cheap Eyeglasses Online

Now that you’ve got your eye exam prescription in your hands, regardless of whether you had to pay $10 or $75 — you can still save hundreds on your actual eye glasses, and this is where the more substantial savings come from. Honestly, the best way to get cheap eye glasses is by buying them online.

You may think that you could get even better deals by buying in-person while overseas, like I mentioned for the eye exam, but honestly no, that’d be pretty tough. My first pair of prescription eye glasses, purchased cheaply in Colombia were still around $100 for some mid-level frames with blue blocking lenses. Probably still a savings of 50% or more compared to the United States, but certainly not the cheapest, if you’re willing to purchase online.

Purchasing eyeglasses through Zenni Optical is probably the cheapest and easiest way to get your prescription eye glasses, and is where I bought my most recent pair. As mentioned, you need to have your prescription from you eye exam in order to input the information, as well as your PD. If you don’t have the PD measurement, you can print out a guide that will help you measure it, either by yourself or with the help of a friend or family member.

You can virtually “try on” all of their frames using your computer camera to take a little fake 3D selfie that lets you see your potential new frames on your head that you can rotate and back and forth to see from all sides.

Using the virtual try on for Zenni glasses

It isn’t quite like trying them on at the store, but I’d say the virtual look is pretty consistent with the final results, you just can’t be sure how they will actually feel on your face, so try and read the reviews of previous purchasers for a better idea. They do not appear to censor any reviews and you can find some frames with a higher proportion of bad reviews, so maybe stay away from those.

Zenni has tons of different styles to choose from and at prices that seem almost comically cheap when compared to any in person store. I think the cheap prices actually kind of scare some people away who think they must be poor quality or a shoddy product.

Zenni glasses are so affordable for a number of reasons: they operate entirely online with no brick and mortar stores, they have a dedicated factory and ship directly to consumer, and because they are made in China (as with every other eyeglass retailer), allowing you to take advantage of geoarbitrage without leaving home.

My latest eye glasses cost less than $23 TOTAL for a basic prescription with the anti-reflective coating add-on (which I would recommend, at minimum). That price is including the $4.95 I had to pay for shipping. Pretty crazy. Shipping time is listed at 14-21 days, but in my case, it arrived in only seven days.

The glasses are of decent quality as well as the lenses… Certainly nothing that jumps out at me as being poor quality. The actual prescription (and my vision/eyesight) is indistinguishable from my other pair of prescription glasses.

Zenni glasses are so cheap that you could buy a few pairs and still save considerable money. Maybe that means the same glasses to stash a few in different places or a few different styles to switch things up day-today.

If you’re a traveler, it’s usually a good idea to always travel with a spare pair just in case you end up losing or breaking a pair while you’re out and about. So, at the least, Zenni Optical is the place to go to get yourself a spare set of glasses.

My real glasses from Zenni, costing less than $23 total.

Buying a cheap set of spare glasses for travel, for kicking around, or whatever is probably the best way to see for yourself whether they’re right for you.

Honestly, after paying so little for these glasses the last time, it makes it hard for me to ever imagine going back to paying a few hundred or more for a pair of glasses. If you’ve never used Zenni Optical before, you can get started now with $5 off your first order via my link. Let me know what you think!

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The article How to Save Money on Prescription Eye Glasses first appeared on Desk to Dirtbag.

One of the biggest obstacles standing in the way of creating the life or lifestyle that we really desire is often simple but recurring distractions that pull us away, delay us, or prevent us from doing the things we really should be doing. It seems like distraction is all the more prevalent today thanks to our electronic devices that have trained us so well. I too frequently struggle with the magnetic pull of distraction, which is why I picked up the book Indistractable by Nir Eyal. Let’s review some of the key takeaways of the book with this Indistractable summary and book review.

Indistractable: How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life is a book that aims to explain what exactly distraction is, what triggers it, and how we can attempt to corral it so we can work toward the things that really matter to us in life, whether they are professional, personal, interpersonal, or even just having fun.

This is part of my series of book summaries for online entrepreneurs and digital nomads.

Indistractable Summary

While I love the life of location independence and running my small business, I do have to admit that it is infinitely more easy for me to get distracted and fall and into a rabbit hole of things that don’t do anything to advance my goals, thanks to the fact that I don’t have coworkers to hold me accountable or a boss breathing down my neck. Over the past few years, I find myself oscillating between periods of great progress and other periods of being adrift, so to speak.

It is these periods of being adrift where I am most prone to distraction. In Nir Eyal‘s book, he defines being distraction as being anything that pulls us away from what we want to be doing in the moment. Distraction is the exact opposite of traction, or that which is pulling us toward or objectives.

To be clear, these objectives or this traction doesn’t have to be some major, transcendental life goal. It applies just as much to situations where you set down to work and get distracted by YouTube recommendations as when you sit down to watch Netflix with a loved one and get distracted by the phone vibrating next to you.

Either way, some internal or external factor is pulling your attention and focus away from what you set out to do. Indistractable tries to help us better understand these internal and external factors vying for our attention.

Internal Triggers

The first section of the book speaks to the internal distractions that come from within us. These can be simple things like feeling hunger or other physiological triggers, but more often we are dealing with some sort of uncomfortable internal trigger that can lead us to escapism. It is this discomfort that can cause us to seek out a distraction. While we often think of cell phone addiction as one of the greatest distractions, the fact is that distraction can take many forms as it has in previous decades, whether television, cigarettes, junk food, video games, etc. If we want to master distraction, we must learn to deal with discomfort and master internal triggers.

In order to deal with the internal triggers, we must be mindful about what causes them and the sensations that go along with it. The primary advice here is not to suppress those urges, but to notice them and watch them pass. The book is backed up with all sorts of interesting studies, particularly those in the field of addiction, that can help us better control these impulses that might otherwise led us to distraction in order to avoid discomfort.

One study of smoking flight attendants on Transatlantic flights found that the smoking craving was not related to how much time had passed since their last cigarette, but rather how much time was left until they could smoke their next one. Cravings were highest as landing approached, regardless of time in the air or how many hours since they last smoked.

Making Time

Part II of the book primarily deals with the importance of planning your time, using time blocking and scheduling so you can better focus on the things that align with your values and goals. Again, this doesn’t need to be a Type-A go-go-go schedule that is all work and no play.

Indeed, it is important to schedule downtime, playtime, or whatever you want to call it. If you’re planning to spend the evening in a Netflix and chill mode, then that is time well spent, and isn’t a distraction from the things you had otherwise planned to do. If you schedule time for the things that matter most to you, then you will be better able to prioritize them and realize when other things are distracting you from that.

External Triggers

Part III of the book deals with a myriad of external triggers which are the things we typically associate with distractions in a variety of settings, including at the office. External distractions or those things that just pop up and pull you away from what you were doing (including coworkers showing up at your desk).

Hacking back your smartphone is certainly one chapter that everyone today should read and something that I have largely been doing for a few years now. It mainly consists of limiting basically all the push notifications from your cellphone, rearranging things, and utilizing functions like Do Not Disturb. I used to hate the constant vibrations while I was writing and which would inevitably distract me and almost force me to look to see if it was something important. It almost never was.

Read More: Hack Back Your Smartphone

Personally, I’ve turned off push notifications and badges for virtually everything on my phone except WhatsApp (where family and close friends contact me) and phone calls. Things like email or other former constant interruptions require me to actually open the app and check it. Other apps that hold the potential to be true time sucks like Facebook with its endless newsfeed, have been completely removed from my phone. I don’t miss it. Things like that can be used on my laptop, although I don’t use it much there either.

There are tons of other tips that apply to today’s tech heavy age, like how to reduce email distractions (with the unconventional advice to just send fewer emails). One of the new tips that I immediately implemented upon reading the book was installing DF Tube browser extension so I could enjoy a Distraction-Free Youtube. I use YouTube a lot for either ambient music playlists while I work or for different learning materials (I’ve been devouring a lot of investment material lately).

This awesome browser extension completely removes the suggested videos sidebar and the (troll-filled) comments section below. Now I don’t find myself getting distracted from the video I wanted to watch or learn from by checking out the suggestions for what I might want to watch next, or reading the inane comments below — both of which I would inevitably do on virtually every video.

Pacts Prevent Distraction

Finally, Part IV deals with the use of pacts in order to really cement your behavior, provide accountability, and become Indistractable. The idea of using pacts is something I’ve already implemented at times, but it was a good refresher. The three main pacts are Effort Pacts, Price Pacts, and Identity Pacts.

An Effort Pact is just making something distracting or undesirable a little more inconvenient to you. This could be something like uninstalling Facebook from your cellphone so you can only use it on a computer. Or it could be something like keeping junk food hidden away and out of sight. You are just imposing some sort of barrier between you so it isn’t a mindless effort to scroll through Facebook or social media. You give yourself time to stop to unwanted behaviors.

The Price Pact is basically putting your money where your mouth is when it comes to action. The main example in the book of doing taping a $100 bill to a calendar with the idea that he had to exercise a little every single day or burn the $100 bill was kind of dumb. Even if I tried and failed, I don’t think I’d have the willpower to burn money.

Outside the book, I’ve heard of better examples where you can set automatic accountability with, say, donations to a group you are ideologically opposed to in the event you don’t follow through. So you could have it donate to the opposing political party like the Democrats or Republicans or a polarizing non-profit group like the NRA or Planned Parenthood.

The Identity Pact is fairly simple, but it has to do with fostering and cultivating the identity you desire and recognizing yourself as such with time. For example, if someone is a Vegetarian, the very idea that they don’t eat meat is pretty core to their identity, therefore whether they should eat the hamburger isn’t likely to be a struggle. It is harder to go against your identity. This is where the book gets the name Indistractable, by the way, if you can identify yourself as such, then you will be less prone to distraction, as opposed to people who tell themselves (and others) “I’m easily distracted.”

The first four parts of the book are the core, but there are subsequent sections on raising indistractable kids, creating an indistractable workplace, and building indistractable relationships (friendships and romantic).

Check Out Indistractable

Confronting My Distractions

I’d already tackled my distractions with cellphone overuse by limiting those external triggers and is something I highly recommend. But I’d never really found myself focusing on or even recognizing the internal triggers that distract which is something that this book has helped me pay attention to ways I can prevent distractions.

In terms of my work and business, I have been neglecting it a lot lately, ever since the pandemic started basically, and cut my business revenue in half. In that time, I’ve been more distraction prone than ever and I am trying to force myself to get back on track, to align my actions with my goals and values, and continue working towards them.

While the pandemic opened up new avenues and explorations, it was time for me to renew my focus and start mapping out a new direction. In that way, the Indistractable book has helped me find more clarity and I hope its lessons will continue to guide me going forward. But if I do get distracted, I feel like this is a book I could return to read again.

Indistractable is an important read for the modern generation who are faced with a world of distraction right in their pockets and at their finger tips. This book is a light, easy, and relatively quick read, backed with the basic theory, numerous scientific studies, and a plethora of actionable recommendations to reduce distractions in your life. I’d highly recommend picking up a copy today.

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I hope you enjoyed this book summary of Indistractable by Nir Eyal. I’d highly recommend checking out the book and finding new ways of making unwanted behaviors a little more difficult.

The article Gaining Traction Against Distraction: Indistractable Summary first appeared on Desk to Dirtbag.