Photo: Amtrak
Train Travel Might Be the Smartest Way to Move in 2026
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Even if you’re not a football soccer fan, there’s no escaping the World Cup. As the 2026 tournament drives travel prices up across North America, there’s a smarter way to move between cities.
New rail-and-hotel packages make it easy to catch a match or skip the stadium entirely and explore the US by train, without airport lines or peak airfare. Whether you’re chasing kickoff or eyeing a six-day Mountains, Arches, and Canyons rail journey out West, train travel could be the simplest way to see more for less.
T R A V E L
See Afghanistan Differently On a Virtual Tour With Its First Female Guide
Photo: Untamed Borders
You don’t have to board a plane to broaden your perspective. On a virtual journey through Afghanistan with the country’s first female tour guide, one writer discovered historic sites, layered cultural stories, and a powerful new lens on a misunderstood place.
D E A L S
Travel Offers Worth Booking
No affiliate links. Just solid finds.
Amtrak Vacations: Save up to $600 on select North American rail journeys.
Bahamas In A Day: Fly from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini and back in a single day for $550 when booked by March 1.
Daily Drop: Seattle to New Zealand from $528 round trip (normally $1000+).
Viking Cruises: Up to 35% off 2026–2028 river voyages plus free airfare. Book by February 28.
Booking.com: Save 15% or more on stays through April 2026.
S T A Y S
Where Biohacking Meets Five-Star Luxury
Photo: Palazzo Fiuggi
A former royal palace outside Rome is now a luxury medical wellness retreat offering genetic testing, longevity programs, and biohacking systems, all wrapped in Italian glamour.
B L A C K T R A V E L
6 Underrated Cities in the US to Celebrate Black History All Year Long
Photo: Travel Portland
If you’re looking to reconnect with the American Black diaspora within the US, here are a few places where you can begin that journey.
G U I D E
Where to Play, Eat, and Stay in Frisco, Texas, for Sports Fans
Photos: Jill Robbins
Frisco isn’t just another Dallas suburb. It’s Sports City USA, home to the Cowboys, FC Dallas, and major national sports organizations. Whether you’re die-hard or casually curious, here’s how to plan a trip around the action.
S T A Y S
HotelTonight’s Best Deals Right Now
Photo: HotelTonight
Weekend plans? Done. These rates are live right now and won’t last*:
Evergreen Lodge - $318 (normally $538)
Classic Vail lodge vibes with local brews and vintage pinball
Granlibakken Tahoe - $272 (normally $524)
Wooded Tahoe retreat with year-round adventure and cozy comfort
The Fairmont Banff Springs - $1,120 (normally $728)
A 19th-century castle in the Rockies with modern luxury touches
Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour - $370 (normally $716)
French-inspired waterfront elegance with a showstopping infinity pool
Vincci Mae - $137 (normally $214)
Golden-hued boutique glam near Francesc Macià with rooftop views
Where to Stay
Travel Well
The Matador Editorial Team
*Here at Matador, we're always looking for the best travel deals. We may receive a commission via affiliate links in this newsletter. Prices and availability can change at any time.