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Travel + Leisure
2 hours ago
- General
- Travel + Leisure
I'd Never Go to Spain Without Packing These Essentials
I've covered a lot of ground in the three and a half years I've lived in Barcelona, Spain—crisscrossing the Balearics, road-tripping across Andalucía, making regular trips to Madrid to visit my in-laws, and cheering on pilgrims from the steps of the Santiago de Compostela cathedral. As I've toured around, I've also gotten more efficient at packing. Before I moved here, I (wrongly) assumed that there was no art to packing for Spain and that I could expect sunny days and mild temps no matter where I was. Not so. However, if you're planning a trip in the coming months, you will want the lightest, most breathable threads in your closet. Here are 13 summer-friendly items I'd recommend for visitors—and would always take with me as I tour the country—from breezy linen trousers and a chic swimsuit to the humble travel laundry line (because dryers are actually few and far between). A day in Spain can take you in many directions. Here in Barcelona, a typical Saturday might start with coffee and pastries at a neighborhood café, segue into a run along the beach, an afternoon gallery visit, and end with a sunset hike up Montjuïc—where friends gather to share a bottle of wine al aire libre with panoramic views of the city. With that kind of range, the key to packing for a Spanish holiday is versatility, and you should always throw a light windbreaker in your bag (whether you're sightseeing in Sevillle or heading down to the Costa del Sol at the height of summer). And even if your itinerary is all business in Madrid, don't forget a swimsuit—many of the city's best hotels boast rooftop pools or lavish spas with pools (I see you, Four Seasons Madrid). Locals rarely show up there in beach cover-ups so pack something smart for a night out. My recommendations focus on the tried-and-tested styles in my closet; meanwhile, male travelers will want to consider stocking up on dressy polos, tailored slacks, linen button-downs, and plenty of smart casual staples. Boarding the ferry to Ibiza. Credit: Everlane If you're planning on traveling to Spain in the summer months, you'll want to stock up lightweight apparel, ideally options made from natural moisture-wicking materials. In the summer months, when the heat and humidity soars in Barcelona, I live in my Everlane muscle top. I own it in multiple colors, and I'll find new ways to wear it each day—with a loose skirt, matching linen trousers, dressy beach sarong, you name it. What I like about it the most is that it's made from 100 percent sustainably grown European flax linen and has a super relaxed fit, so it never clings to your body, even in sticky August heat. Credit: Everlane I love a breezy dress as much as the next person, but I have found I get a lot more use out of dressy, high-waisted pants like this breathable option from Everlane. I've worn mine for a fancy dinner out at the Six Senses Ibiza, for a friend's post-wedding brunch in Seville, and for rooftop drinks with friends at El Palace Barcelona. Paired with a matching linen top, it manages to be both effortless and elegant at the same time. And as a bonus, these trousers can be easily popped in a cold wash, making them perfect for low-maintenance travel. Credit: Toco Most people know that Spainards tend to gravitate toward more barely-there swimsuit styles. This is especially true in the Balearic islands, like Ibiza and Formentera, where topless sunbathing is the norm. Personally, I like a little bit more coverage on the shores while still feeling sexy and prepared for water sports, like swimming or sailing. This one-piece option from Toco checks all the boxes and, in the bright-red Salsa color, it certainly turns heads. Just be aware of your tan lines—the Spanish sun is strong, and those crisscrossing straps will leave their mark. Credit: Monday Swimwear View on One of my favorite things about Spanish beach culture? The chiringuito . These relaxed, often family-run seaside restaurants are the heart and soul of summer on the coast, serving classics like seafood-topped paella and refreshing pitchers of tinto de verano . Dress codes are virtually nonexistent; it's perfectly acceptable to stroll in straight from the shore in your bikini, flip-flops, and a breezy cover-up. My go-to is a linen sarong in a chic miniskirt cut: it's breathable, wrinkle-proof, and folds down to nothing, making it ideal for tossing into a beach tote. Just tie it around your waist and you're instantly chiringuito-ready. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon View on Amazon View on If there's one product that I urge friends and family to pack when they're traveling to Spain, it's a windbreaker. I can't tell you the number of times I've been on holiday—even in sunny spots like Ibiza or Cádiz—and it's started to unexpectedly pour. And if you're headed anywhere in Spain's north, like Asturias, Galicia, or Cantabria, this is a non-negotiable. My go-to windbreaker is this fitted option from Orvis, which is made from recycled polyester and features a vented back to allow for air circulation. I also love that it has an interior sunglasses pocket, allowing me to keep up with Spain's sometimes-yoyo shifts in weather. Plus, the adjustable cinch waist is equally as flattering for hiking trails as navigating the style conscious streets of Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure In Spain, style is all about the details—truly. Women often gravitate toward bold, statement-making jewelry and accessories, while men (especially Andalucians) aren't afraid to sport a flamboyant pocket square or a wide-brimmed straw hat. Footwear, in particular, gets a lot of attention—perhaps not surprising given Spain's long and storied tradition of shoemaking. The same goes for handbags. On the fashion-forward streets of Madrid's Salamanca district, for instance, you'll see women carrying a kaleidoscope of impeccably crafted bolsos , from hands-free crossbody bags and phone purses to designer shoulder bags. Credit: Castañer View on Amazon View on Bloomingdales View on Neiman Marcus In Spain, the humble espadrille is an object of high fashion, with homegrown luxury brands like Loewe and Manolo Blahnik designing formal styles perfect for weddings and soirées. Personally, living in Barcelona, I'm partial to the made-in-Catalonia Castañer brand, which has done collaborations with designers like Yves Saint Laurent over its hundred-year history. Their Mary Jane style is especially chic; in my opinion, the little strap gives them a little more mileage than the classic slip-on style and makes them just as right for early fall or late spring as in summer (thus justifying the high price point). And for weddings, I recommend their wedge espadrilles, which will give you a bit of extra height and are especially eye-catching in their blend of chestnut leather and jute. Credit: Bloomingdale's $160 $152 at Amazon View on REI $160 at Nordstrom Here in Spain, we do a lot of walking, even when we don't have somewhere we need to go. Just consider the paseo, that very Spanish custom of pouring into the city streets in the early evening to go for a leisurely stroll and greet friends. To do like a local, you'll want to pack your most comfortable pair of sneakers, like these low-top Veja trainers, and explore Spain's alluring cities and charming pueblos by foot. Not only are these sneakers super comfortable, with solid arch support and no rubbing, but they also feel a bit dressier than your average sneaker. Mind you, these aren't what I'd wear to go hiking or do other sporty activities, but I do find they work in 75 percent of the other scenarios I find myself in on vacation. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon If there's one accessory that can take you from a morning of sightseeing to a sunset vermouth, it's a crochet handbag. As much as I love a hands-free crossbody or canvas tote, I've found the crochet bag to be the ultimate all-day companion in Spain. It has a breezy, Mediterranean feel that suits the setting, and it's roomy enough for those inevitable spontaneous purchases (like a bottle of local vermouth, perhaps, or a bar of Arquinesia soap from Mallorca). I always stash one in my beach bag, just in case we end up at a chiringuito and I want something chicer than a tote to hold my phone and wallet. No joke—I almost never leave home without a sun hat. After one too many times getting caught off guard by the Spanish sun and having to cut my day short to dash home for a hat and some sunscreen, I've learned my lesson. My go-to is a soft, lightweight raffia style like this one from Jenni Kayne; it folds easily into a bag and keeps its relaxed shape. While I love a good statement hat (and in Spain, bold colors reign supreme), I usually stick to classic colors like straw or black when I travel since they go with everything and make packing way easier. A sunny summer day in Seville. Credit: Raen $150 at Amazon View on View on Anthropologie I'm all for a stylish pair of sunnies, but in Spain, function comes first. Look for sunglasses that are polarized, offer 100 percent UVA/UVB protection, and are durable enough to withstand gusty winds, salty air, and being tossed in and out of your bag all day. I'm a huge fan of these editor-approved Raen Keera Sunglasses, which have a subtle cat-eye shape and deliver on all the aforementioned criteria. Plus, the nose bridge is snug enough that it's not necessary to constantly adjust if reading on the beach or playing padel outdoors with friends. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Spain may be known for its tapas and traditions, but it's just as much a paradise for thrill-seekers. Whether you're hiking the Camino, wine tasting in Lanzarote's volcanic vineyards, or discovering Galicia's hidden Islas Cíes, you'll want to be ready for a little adventure. So pack accordingly! In addition to your walking shoes and weather-appropriate layers, don't forget the practical must-haves: a universal adapter, noise-canceling headphones for long train rides, and a portable charger to keep your phone powered through every beach, hike, and pintxo crawl. And, while I sport a carry-all backpack for the majority of my trips, my Spanish friends are just as likely to show up to a group vacay with a rolling duffel or checked suitcase (particularly for longer holidays) so your favorite suitcase to fill all the gear is up to you. Credit: REI $70 $61 at Amazon $70 at REI View on One of my essential packing items for Spain, especially if you're planning any coastal adventures, is a good dry bag. The Sea to Summit set is my go-to: it comes with three ultralight, roll-top bags (3-liter, 5-liter, and 8-liter) that keep valuables safe from humidity, salt spray, and unexpected splashes. I've used mine along the Camí de Ronda in Costa Brava, a cliff-hugging trail that lets you walk up the coast from one crystalline cove to the next, with stops for kayaking, sailing, and swimming. It's also a must for more rugged coastal routes like the Camino del Norte in the Basque Country or Galicia's Ruta dos Faros, where the weather can turn quickly and dry gear is a must. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Cotopaxi $225 at Amazon $250 at REI $250 at Backcountry If you're accustomed to traveling in Europe, you know that checking baggage can be a serious headache (not to mention, a massive expense) and that carry-on travel is the way to go. This is especially true in Spain, where budget carriers like Vueling and Volotea will make you pay big time for additional baggage. It's for that reason that I opt for this roomy Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack whenever I travel. Whether I'm heading to Madrid for a work trip or pintxo-hopping in San Sebastián with friends, this backpack fits the bill: roomy enough for my laptop, five days' worth of outfits, and a couple pairs of shoes, yet compact enough to slide into the overhead bin on planes and trains. Even when it's packed to the brim, it never feels too heavy thanks to the padded shoulder straps and supportive waist belt. And with plenty of outer compartments—including a stretch water bottle pocket—I'm not left rummaging around for my keys or passport at every turn. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon Here in Spain, we live in smaller apartments, pay steep energy prices, and enjoy sunshine nearly year-round—so it's no surprise that most people air-dry their clothes. While fancy hotels typically offer laundry service, if you're staying in an Airbnb or more budget-friendly spot, I highly recommend packing a retractable clothesline. My favorite is this compact, heavy-duty version that comes with 12 colorful clothespins and 13 anti-slip clips. It takes up barely any space in your bag and works like a charm. I've strung it up between trees while hiking the Picos de Europa, used it to dry swimsuits on a Costa Brava camping trip, and even rigged it on a Mediterranean cruise balcony. It's saved me countless trips to the laundromat—and spared me the desperate move of drying socks on a radiator. Sightseeing in Palma de Mallorca. Planning a trip to Spain with a specific adventure or itinerary in mind? It's worth doing a little extra research to make sure your packing list matches the realities on the ground. Here are just a few top-level scenarios that require gear beyond the usual sandals and sundresses. If you're walking the Camino de Santiago: While I've never done the Camino, I've heard from friends that anti-blister socks, a water-hydration backpack, and comfortable, broken-in hiking boots are just a few of the essentials you'll need for conquering Spain's most famous pilgrimage. While I've never done the Camino, I've heard from friends that anti-blister socks, a water-hydration backpack, and comfortable, broken-in hiking boots are just a few of the essentials you'll need for conquering Spain's most famous pilgrimage. If you're skiing in the Sierra Nevada: Europe's southernmost ski resort is famously one of the only places on the continent where you can ski in the morning and swim in the Mediterranean by the afternoon. Along with the usual ski essentials, one item I always pack for the Sierra Nevada is a pair of high-quality goggles with 100 percent UV protection—the sun at the summit can be intense and blinding. This particular pair is also known for its anti-fog technology, which comes in handy when you're squinting to spot the African coastline on a clear day. Europe's southernmost ski resort is famously one of the only places on the continent where you can ski in the morning and swim in the Mediterranean by the afternoon. Along with the usual ski essentials, one item I pack for the Sierra Nevada is a pair of high-quality goggles with 100 percent UV protection—the sun at the summit can be intense and blinding. This particular pair is also known for its anti-fog technology, which comes in handy when you're squinting to spot the African coastline on a clear day. If you're cala -hopping in Mallorca: I've spent a lot of time on Mallorca—the largest of the Balearic Islands—and I'm always surprised by how underprepared travelers are when exploring the island's pebble-strewn beaches and rugged, cliff-lined coast. Save your toes from the torture and invest in this pair of quick-drying, sock-like water shoes, which have 3D non-slip treads to keep you on your feet. At a cala in Mallorca. Spain is made up of 17 autonomous regions, each with its own distinct identity, traditions, and style, so it's tricky to lay down universal rules about what not to wear. What flies in Seville might feel out of place in Bilbao, and even just comparing Madrid and Barcelona shows how varied fashion sensibilities can be. In Madrid, you'll often see a more colorful, preppy aesthetic, while in Barcelona, the vibe leans more low-key and monochromatic, with darker palettes, sneakers, and utilitarian accessories. That said, if you want to avoid standing out as a tourist, there are a few guidelines I've picked up after years of living here. Skip the loud foreign logos, destination tees, or anything emblazoned with oversized slogans. Stick with sensible footwear, especially during the day when you might be walking on cobblestones or exploring on foot. Spaniards tend to dress neatly even when casual, so you'll feel more in sync with the locals by opting for smart, well-fitting basics. In front of the Arc de Triomf in Barcelona. Spain's weather is remarkably varied, so it's worth checking the forecast for your specific destination before you travel. Broadly speaking, northern Spain (think Galicia, Asturias, and the Basque Country) has a wetter, more temperate climate, with plenty of rain and cooler temperatures year-round. The Mediterranean coast—home to cities like Barcelona and Valencia—enjoys hot, humid summers and mild, relatively sunny winters. In central Spain, including Madrid, you'll find a more continental climate: dry and intensely hot in summer (often climbing above 100 degrees Fahrenheit), and surprisingly chilly in winter, with crisp, blue-sky days. Down south, in Andalucía, winters are sunny and pleasant, but summers can be extreme, with temperatures regularly soaring as high as 114 degrees Fahrenheit. As for Spain's islands, both the Balearics (like Mallorca and Ibiza) and the Canary Islands see milder, more stable weather. The Canaries, located off the northwest coast of Africa, are a popular escape among sunbirds, thanks to the warm weather and plentiful sunshine. On Ses Illetes beach in Formentera. Given that Spain is one of Europe's most popular destination wedding spots, it's no surprise this question is the question I'm most frequently asked. While there's no single dress code that applies to every Spanish wedding, there are a few general guidelines to keep in mind. Since Spain is traditionally a Catholic country, more conservative attire is often encouraged, especially for church ceremonies. Think dresses with sleeves or bringing a shawl or wrap to cover your shoulders. Wearing black is typically avoided, as it's associated with mourning. That said, non-religious or more modern couples—especially those hosting coastal or countryside celebrations—often adopt a relaxed, Mediterranean-inspired dress code, with more freedom in both style and color. As for footwear: Spanish weddings tend to be quite formal, so heels are welcome (and often expected). Don't worry about blisters: if there's a dance floor, it's common for hosts to provide flip-flops or other comfy shoes so you can keep going late into the night. At the cliffs of Formentera. Siobhan Reid has lived in Spain for three and a half years and, as a full-time travel writer, she's constantly on the move in search of stylish hotels, under-the-radar adventures, and lesser-visited corners. This has given her a deeper understanding of life beyond the big cities—and impressed upon her just how important it is to pack smartly for Spain's incredible diversity of landscapes, climates, and cultures. This packing list includes actual products she owns and would recommend to friends and family visiting the region. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
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Travel + Leisure
3 hours ago
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
The Ultimate Egypt Packing List, According to a Cairo Resident
My husband and I have been living in Cairo, Egypt, for a year and a half, and we also had our first daughter since we moved here. Between the city's summers with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees and cooler winter days in the 60s, I've experienced the country's extreme desert climates and dress accordingly, all while navigating motherhood. Additionally, I've developed a list of my must-have items based on some of my favorite things to do here, like playing golf and going to the beach. (Despite being a desert, Egypt has some of the best resort towns I've ever seen.) All in all, don't underestimate the variety of essentials you'll need for your Egyptian adventure. Ahead, you'll find everything I never leave home without—and tell visitors to pack—including sightseeing necessities. Quick Tips It typically takes a while to get checked bags at Cairo International Airport so consider traveling carry-on only, when possible. Pack loose-fitting clothing and layers to deal with heat and modesty considerations. Always stash a pack of wipes as many public bathrooms don't have toilet paper. Packing Checklist for Egypt Clothing Shoes and Accessories Gear and Other Essentials Clothing As a cosmopolitan city, people wear a range of attire; Even though you can get away with shorter silhouettes common at home, I prefer longer lightweight clothing that protects me from the sun's strong rays. When packing, I begin by laying out my suitcase, toiletry bag, and packing cubes. Then, from dresses to socks, I organize my packing cubes based on the items inside them. Before moving here, I stocked up on affordable white and beige-colored linen pieces from cult-favorite brand Quince. Additionally, this Marcella midi-dress became my go-to as you can easily dress it up for brunch at the one-of-a-kind KHUFU's restaurant in front of the pyramids or an afternoon at the underrated Gayer Anderson museum, located right next to the must-visit medieval Ibn Tulun mosque. When out and about, you won't draw attention if your knees are covered. Many people wear sleeveless tops and dresses, especially if it's really hot outside, except at religious sites where you'll be denied entry at a mosque if your knees, shoulders, and head (for women) aren't covered. The only other thing I highly recommend having is sun-protective clothing, or at least investing in a swimsuit with built-in UPF. Shoes and Accessories Between the dust and the lack of sidewalks, your shoes will get dirty. If you love the breezy, all-white monochromatic look like me, this is something I live with when I rock my white Veja sneakers and matching linen set. For the days when I want to switch things up, I break out my comfy Rothy's flats, which I'm not afraid to mess up since the brand is beloved for machine-washable footwear. As noted, a woman will have to cover her head with a scarf, and everyone has to take off their shoes when visiting a mosque, so I suggest wearing shoes with socks. Sometimes the mosque will have plastic covers that look like shower caps you can place over your shoes, or there are cubbies where you can leave your pair behind. If you opt for either, just bring small bills as the attendant will ask you for a tip. To avoid this, you may be able to simply carry your shoes with you as you tour the mosque. Other accessories I finish my looks with are my tan baseball cap that doesn't get dirty easily and my Ray-ban Meta glasses. Between climbing in and out of the pyramids and having to be extra alert when crossing the busy, pedestrian light-free streets, the protective eyewear is a great way to stay hands-free without missing memorable moments as I can take photos with a click of button. Gear and Other Essentials Cairo is a spread-out city with heavy traffic, depending on the time of day, so it's best to have everything you need with you. (The roads are pretty clear early in the morning on the weekends, which are Friday and Saturday, as Egypt follows the Islamic calendar. Keep in mind that this schedule will affect the time sites are open.) All in all, you won't last a full sightseeing day without a water bottle, sunscreen (which is important to consistently reapply), and a portable charger because extreme heat can affect your battery life. I also like to treat myself to a Dior balm that can revitalize and moisturize my hands, body, and lips—plus, it smells fantastic. And since there may not be soap or toilet paper in the public bathrooms, I always have the Aesop rinse-free hand wash and Goodwipes with me. In addition, while Cairo is lined with coffee and dessert shops, there's often no place to grab a quick bite at the major sites outside of the capital city, so I rely on snacks in my bag for a pick-me-up. These must-haves and more all pile into my Dagne Dover backpack that doubles as a diaper bag and comes with a life-saving changing pad, which is something I've only seen once in the bathroom of a restaurant. Finally, I'd recommend you add Egyptian Hieroglyphs for Complete Beginners and Islamic Monuments in Cairo to your cart. The highlight of any Egyptian vacation is the chance to see ancient temples and tombs on a scale like nowhere else in the world. Make the experience even more immersive by learning to read the language the ancient Egyptians left behind. While I'm not yet fluent, there's nothing more thrilling than recognizing a word or phrase in a magnificent temple, thanks to Bill Manley's book. At the same time, there's more to Egypt than its ancient sites, Cairo has an entrancing old city full of medieval mosques and monuments that are nearly 1,000 years old. My husband and I have been following Caroline Williams' book of architectural walking tours for truly off-the-beaten-path experiences. You Might Also Need In addition to a sightseeing stay in Cairo and the surrounding areas, there are other popular activities around the country that are worth a visit. While some require very few packing list adjustments like a luxe Nile cruise, more active endeavors will require planning ahead to reserve precious suitcase space for hiking apparel, beach gear, and other sporty necessities. Golfing: Golfers rejoice! The expensive sport is very affordable in Cairo and is accessible at many major hotels, including the famed Gezira Sporting Club, Hilton Pyramids Golf Hotel, which is known for its breathtaking views of the pyramids, and more. My husband and I are even members of the Katameya Heights club, where I sport my fun, printed golf apparel. If you're on the fence about bringing your golf clubs, just know that you can get plenty of use out of them. Golfers rejoice! The expensive sport is very affordable in Cairo and is accessible at many major hotels, including the famed Gezira Sporting Club, Hilton Pyramids Golf Hotel, which is known for its breathtaking views of the pyramids, and more. My husband and I are even members of the Katameya Heights club, where I sport my fun, printed golf apparel. If you're on the fence about bringing your golf clubs, just know that you can get plenty of use out of them. Watersports: Egypt may be a desert, but don't sleep on the watersports available to you, and consider packing necessary gear. Tourists flock to snorkel and scuba dive in the Red Sea for the diverse marine life and extraordinary coral reefs, like those within the Ras Mohammed National Park located in the resort city of Sharm El Sheik. Dahab is another nearby snorkeling destination with the most calm and tranquil atmosphere. Also, if you're visiting the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, consider cooling off at Hurghada's white sand beaches complete with kite surfing, on top of snorkeling and scuba diving. Egypt may be a desert, but don't sleep on the watersports available to you, and consider packing necessary gear. Tourists flock to snorkel and scuba dive in the Red Sea for the diverse marine life and extraordinary coral reefs, like those within the Ras Mohammed National Park located in the resort city of Sharm El Sheik. Dahab is another nearby snorkeling destination with the most calm and tranquil atmosphere. Also, if you're visiting the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, consider cooling off at Hurghada's white sand beaches complete with kite surfing, on top of snorkeling and scuba diving. Cruising: Yes, you should splurge on a luxury cruise along the Nile. It's a surreal and magical experience that's still on my must-do list of things before we leave early next year. According to our friends, cheaping out on a Nile cruise has led many to bad experiences. You should also consider going between October and April when the weather is ideal, so you won't get hit with heat waves and sandstorms. Frequently Asked Questions What items are not allowed in Egypt? According to the Egypt E-Visa site, there's a long list of prohibited items, including 'explosives, drugs, firearms, narcotics, antiques, agriculture, food products, and more.' You should also obtain a permit beforehand to be able to bring a drone into the country. How can I get around Egypt? Even as a full-time resident, I still use my international roaming that's included at no extra cost with my T-Mobile monthly plan. It's fast enough to be able to navigate using Google Maps and call an Uber. You can also get a local SIM via Vodafone, Orange, Etisalat, and more at the Cairo airport or once you get to your final destination. Overall, getting around Cairo is extremely affordable, but there are tiers. Walking and even just crossing the street can be stressful because there are no crosswalks, pedestrian lights, and traffic won't slow down for you. Then, there are cheap cabs, but I don't recommend hailing one unless you're able to negotiate prices or are willing to give your driver directions in Arabic. The next option is Uber, which is hit or miss because the app is glitchy, and you may be told to cross a busy highway to be picked up. I always choose Uber Comfort for a higher chance of getting a better driver in a nicer car with air conditioning. Of course, a private driver is the way to go, and most guide services can set this up for you. For a smooth start to your trip, I suggest hiring private transportation and an expeditor who can meet you before customs and whisk you through immigration in no time. There's typically a sea of people asking if you need baggage and transportation services at the airport, so this is a way to avoid being overcharged and bothered. Why Trust Travel + Leisure Isis Briones is a travel writer who has lived in Egypt with her six-month-old daughter and husband, who's a diplomat, for a year and a half. Not only did she bring her baby back from the U.S. to Cairo when she was only two months old, but they've also traveled to and from the desert destination many times since moving. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
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Travel + Leisure
6 hours ago
- Business
- Travel + Leisure
U.S. Airlines Are Reportedly Charging Solo Travelers More for Plane Tickets—Here's What You Need to Know
While traveling alone can be enticing and relaxing, new data reveals it might also be more expensive. U.S. airlines are allegedly charging single passengers higher fares than couples or families, according to a new report from the booking site Thrifty Traveler. The travel data team recently compared the price of a single-ticket purchase versus that of two or more tickets. In multiple instances, the single-ticket purchase was more expensive per passenger. In one example, the report showed how a United Airlines flight from Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport (PIA) cost $269 for a one-way ticket for a person traveling alone. But when the same route was booked for two people, the price dropped to $181 per person. The team also noted that a single fare on an American Airlines flight that was priced at $422 dropped to $266 per person when multiple tickets were booked. 'It's just another way for airlines to continue 'segmenting' their customers, charging business travelers paying with a corporate card more while offering a better deal to families on the exact same flight," Thrifty Traveler executive editor Kyle Potter said in the article. The report also notes that the phenomenon doesn't appear to be a widespread occurrence, and may be a limited-time test, or may only appear on select routes. After the report was released, dozens of flyers and aviation enthusiasts confirmed the findings independently. Jeff Rossen, a consumer correspondent and the host of the Rossen Reports, shared his experience of seeing higher fares for single tickets on social media. 'I picked a random round-trip flight, and the first one I picked, boom … a giant $240.93 price difference,' Rossen told Travel + Leisure . 'Same flights. Same cabin.' He also said booking websites may use other clues to potentially generate higher fares and prices for certain customers. 'Airlines can track your search history and apply different prices based on it,' Rossen said. 'So, clear your cache and cookies before logging into the airline. Better yet, search in incognito mode to avoid price hikes targeting you.' At the time of publication, neither American Airlines nor United Airlines provided a comment to T+L. In the meantime, if you're traveling alone, experts recommend setting up price alerts to save some cash. Alternatively, you could consider flying into other nearby (often smaller) airfields that may be less expensive.
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Travel + Leisure
6 hours ago
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
This Iconic Bahamas Resort Is Hosting Wellness Weekends Throughout the Summer—Here's How You Can Join
There's arguably no better destination for rest and relaxation than the sandy shores and turquoise waters of the Bahamas, and The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, is ready to add a little extra wellness to your R&R routine. Nora Tobin—integrated health coach and founder of Nora's Naturals, a sustainable nutrition line—has created three weekend-long retreats throughout the summer in partnership with the luxury resort. The retreats are built around Tobin's four signature pillars: Restore, Perform, Nourish, and Glow, which she's designed to integrate personal wellbeing into each trip without sacrificing indulgence. Taking into consideration that guests are, of course, on vacation, the extent of their participation is entirely up to them. They can throw themselves into an immersive three-day retreat (which still includes plenty of beach and dining time), or they can cherry-pick activities in an a la carte format. The weekends will be filled with small group classes, individual sessions, and seminars. 'My goal with our upcoming retreat series is to provide approachable tools to gently transform wellbeing and accelerate performance in a playful environment," Tobin said. "The retreats are not only an opportunity to revitalize, but also create exceptional social connections. One of the most thrilling aspects for me is the ability to bring amazing people together who may become dear friends, or at the very least, enjoy passion fruit martinis by the sea." (I highly recommend said martini.) One of the most thrilling aspects for me is the ability to bring amazing people together who may become dear friends, or at the very least, enjoy passionfruit martinis by the sea. — Nora Tobin I had the chance to get an early taste of some of the amazing things Tobin and Four Seasons have to offer, and what I loved most was that I was able to enjoy all my favorite parts of a vacation while working on my wellbeing. We would practice beachside yoga, listening to the sounds of the crashing waves, and then follow that up with a crisp glass of Champagne—which, in my opinion, is the perfect way to end a yoga class. Experiencing a sample from each of the upcoming weekends, I learned new wellness techniques that are easy to integrate into not only my everyday personal life, but my professional life as well. When classes are not in session, guests can explore and enjoy the 35 acres of lush tropical resort, including three pools (keep an eye out for the Versailles pool, featured in the James Bond film "Casino Royale"), a fitness center, tennis and golf courts, and a Balinese-style spa. Visit The Ocean Club website to sign up for the following weekends: Restore and Renew, June 6-8: Focus on restoring and renewing reparative sleep, stress reset, and biological age optimization. Fitness and Performance, July 18-20: Target metabolic transformation, performance nutrition, and athletic recovery. Nourish and Glow, Aug. 3-5: Learn about natural fat burning, anti-aging nutrition, and detoxing your system.
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Travel + Leisure
7 hours ago
- Business
- Travel + Leisure
Las Vegas Is One Step Closer to Getting a New Airport—What to Know
Las Vegas could soon get a brand new airport. Plans to build a second airport in the Las Vegas metropolitan area just took a major step forward. On May 19, officials from the Federal Aviation Administration and the Bureau of Land Management issued a notice of intent to prepare an environmental impact statement for the Southern Nevada Supplemental Airport in the Ivanpah Valley, located between the small towns of Jean and Primm. Preparing an environmental impact statement is the first step in the federal process for approving a new commercial airport. Local officials called the start of the review a 'major milestone' for the future airport. 'This important step brings us closer to addressing the increasing demand for air travel in one of the nation's fastest growing regions,' Rosemary Vassiliadis, the Clark County director of aviation, said in a statement obtained by Travel + Leisure . The new airport would have two runways and a single terminal building. The proposed site is about 23 miles from the Vegas strip, and could accommodate both domestic and international flights. Plans to build a second airport for the Las Vegas area have been in the works for more than 25 years, but the project has taken on new urgency. Passenger numbers at Las Vegas' Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) are estimated to meet its full capacity of 63 million to 65 million fliers per year by 2030, according to the Clark County Department of Aviation. 'As a second commercial airport, SNSA will add much-needed capacity, improve service reliability, and ensure Southern Nevada continues to thrive as a global destination for business and tourism,' Vassiliadis said. With its opulent resorts, over-the-top casinos, and thriving nightlife scene, Las Vegas is a perennial hit with travelers. And in recent years, it's been growing even more popular among visitors, thanks to new events and attractions such as the Las Vegas Grand Prix and the immersive concert venue, the Sphere, which opened in September 2023. The next step in the proposed airport's approval process is for the FAA and the BLM to hold a series of three public meetings in July to cover the potential environmental impact the new facility could have on the surrounding area. One concern, according to the local newspaper The Nevada Current , is whether the airport will threaten endangered species in the Ivanpah Valley, including the desert tortoise and the rare white-margined beardtongue wildflower. The first meeting will be held virtually on July 29, and participants can register on the project's website. Two in-person meetings are scheduled to take place on July 30 at the East Las Vegas Library and on July 31 at Primm Valley Casino Resorts.
