Photo: Colorado National Monument/Thomlinson/Public Domain
The Most Underrated National Monuments in the West
Road trips aren’t going anywhere. In the American West, they’re still one of the best ways to see a lot in a short amount of time.
But if your plan involves hitting the big-name national parks this summer, expect crowds, timed entries, and reservations booked months out.
There are, however, national monuments that fly under the radar. They’re often just as striking, far less crowded, and in many cases, right next to the parks everyone else is fighting to get into.
G U I D E
A Local's Guide to Experiencing the Best of Japanese Convenience Stores
Photo: Taylor Bond
Japanese convenience stores are part of local daily life, from paying bills to grabbing surprisingly good meals on the go.
If you’re visiting Japan, it’s easy to miss what actually makes them great. This guide breaks down what to look for, what to skip, and how to make the most of every stop.
T O - D O
APRIL EDITION
Where to travel: Tanzania
Where to stay: A forested retreat in Bend, Oregon
What we’re loving: The ultimate summer backpacking guide
What to do: A free class on maximizing your travel points
Plan ahead: Fly bunk-style in economy
G E A R
The Viral Travel Backpack One Editor Loved and One Editor Hated
Photo: Suzie Dundas
It looks great on paper—durable, expandable, and built for serious travelers. But in reality, this viral backpack splits opinion. Two of our editors have used it for years. Only one recommends it.
S P O N S O R E D
Saskatchewan’s Skies Are a Stargazer’s Dream. Here’s Where to Go on Your Trip.
Photo: Benjamin Hutton Photography / Tourism Saskatchewan
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH TOURISM SASKATCHEWAN
If you’ve never experienced true darkness, this is where to start. With minimal light and noise pollution, Saskatchewan offers some of the clearest night skies in North America.
From meteor showers to full Milky Way views, this is stargazing without distractions.
S T A Y S
These Unreal Joshua Tree Airbnbs Open to California’s Second-Largest National Park
Photos: Airbnb
These stays put you right near Joshua Tree, offering easy access to California’s second-largest national park, without sacrificing style or comfort.
Travel Well
The Matador Editorial Team