A Pilot Spills the Truth About Not Putting Your Phone in Airplane Mode

I’ll never forget the first time I noticed someone choose not to put their smartphone in airplane mode.

It happened a year ago as I flew home. The three-hour flight was fully booked and I was in the middle seat. I put my phone in Airplane Mode then turned on a podcast. While I listened, my eyes wandered.

I realized the person next to me hadn’t put their phone into Airplane Mode; I watched them flip through a few browser and social media apps well until the plane was ready to take off… and then continued to do so as we ascended.

I kept glancing over and wondering when they’d turn on Airplane Mode. The passenger looked to be my age and comfortable on the flight—which meant there was little excuse about not knowing the rules of air travel.

I waited in vain. The plane landed, we deboarded, and life went on.

It wasn’t until I heard from a pilot a few weeks ago that I realized what actually happens when passengers refuse to put their smartphones in Airplane Mode.

Will the plane go down? No. Will you be making the pilot’s life harder while they’re in charge of a metal tube flying through the stratosphere? Definitely.

Here’s what happens when you don’t turn on Airplane Mode—according to a pilot

In a friendly PSA, a pilot recently took to social media to uncover what actually happens when smartphones aren’t properly managed during flights.

Like I just mentioned, there’s no risk to flight security… but smartphones can still cause headaches and undue stress.

“It does have the potential to mess with the headsets,” said a pilot who posted a mini tell-all on his Instagram account. (Reposted here by NBC Chicago.) According to the pilot, it only takes three or four passengers not turning on Airplane Mode on a flight of up to 100 to create interference.

That’s because smartphones that aren’t turned into Airplane Mode will send out radio waves to the nearest towers as they seek out a signal. Some of those radio waves can interfere with the pilots’ headsets.

The result? According to the pilot, that can cause a really annoying buzz in the headset—sort of like the sound of a mosquito buzzing in your ear. He goes on, “It’s not the end of the world, but it’s definitely pretty annoying when you’re trying to copy down instructions.” Fair enough.

How does onboard wi-fi work by comparison?

Here’s the mystifying issue with passengers attempting to use their smartphones during a flight: Most airlines now offer in-flight Wi-Fi.

There’s no reason to worry about your cell signal when you can easily log on to an actual Wi-Fi connection—assuming you’re okay paying for it, of course.

So, what’s the difference here—especially considering Wi-Fi runs on radio waves just like smartphone signals? It’s about infrastructure.

Planes rely on both satellites and ground towers for communication, and these bad boys run at top speed thanks to specialized high-frequency technology. Your smartphone, by contrast, is much less efficient—and its clunky old radio waves are prone to congestion and interference.

In other words, when it comes to handling radio waves and communicating between satellites and cell towers, the average airplane is a Ferrari… and your smartphone is more like a dusty old Camry.

Hand-built & Wind-powered: My Favorite Cruise Concept in the World

I’m a travel writer who has traveled the world.

My most memorable travel moments came when I wandered far off the beaten path and ran head-first into lifestyles beyond the scope of my lived experience.

These moments have shaped who I am as a writer, traveler, and human.

Given many of these ‘a-ha moments’ happened accidentally, it can be hard to pin down and package a truly transformational trip. Transformation, as often as it’s sought by wellness-motivated travelers, can’t be produced willy-nilly.

Or that’s what I thought until I heard about Celestia.

I’d call Celestia a cruise company, but its single vessel is wind-powered and hand-built according to UNESCO-protected traditional practices from Indonesia. And its cruises are bespoke, designed to offer diving, gourmet meals, and cultural tours

Also, it’s ultra-lux.

Do I have your attention?

Welcome to the craziest travel experience I’ve ever heard of – one that I have no problem guaranteeing will change how you see yourself, this world, and our shared heritage.

Celestia Luxury Phinis: a look at the company, the mission, the message

The Celestia cruising Indonesian coastlines (Courtesy of Celestia)

Celestia is a bespoke cruise company based in Bali and serving Indonesian waters. Again, I want to address the term ‘cruise’ because this is really a private sailing experience.

The vessels stay close to the shore and use wind power to navigate the thousands of islands dotting the Indonesian Archipelago.

They have one vessel named Celestia, where the company draws its names—and she’s gorgeous. Technically speaking, Celestia is a 45-meter Phinisi yacht.

A Phinisi yacht is a traditional sailing boat native to Indonesia; as a maritime culture, they’re a celebration and preservation of Indonesian heritage.

In fact, UNESCO recognized the Phinisi (or Pinisi) yacht as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity back in 2017. This designation refers specifically to the design and construction of the yachts, which are a core part of the country’s history and modern identity.

Guests on board aren’t just learning a little bit about culture—they’re living it day in, day out.

3 travel itineraries coming in 2025

As outlined up top, Celestia is a luxury, no-expenses-spared cruise company. They stick to Indonesia’s highly sought-after Coral Triangle, known for its beautiful reefs (home to up to 75% of all coral species live here) and calm waters.

In 2025, Celestia is offering three cruises that guests can join.

These cruises are available starting on January 1, 2025—but you can book your stay now. All journeys have flexible booking dates, allowing travelers to customize their itineraries and take full advantage of the slow travel movement.

You’ll have a choice between these programs.

A Culinary Journey of Indonesia with Chef Wayan Kresna Yasa

Duration: 4 nights / 5 days

Foodies, look no further—this is the Celestia cruise for you. With Indonesia’s favorite, famous celeb chef in the kitchen (that’s Chef Wayan Kresna Yasa), you’ll be able to eat your way across the country.

Not only does the head chef offer cooking demonstrations and tours of local food markets, but you also have the chance to pluck your meal straight from the ocean.

Divers’ Paradise: Komodo National Park

Duration: 4 nights / 5 days

This full-service diving program takes you to one of the wildest parts of the country: Komodo National Park. Cruise director and dive master Jennifer Tan heads the journey, showcasing famous diving sites like The Shotgun, Manta Point, Castle Rock, and more.

Retracing History in the Spice Islands

Duration: 8 nights / 7 days

Want to venture into the past? This cruise takes you around Indonesia’s most famous spice islands, which drew the attention of Dutch and English colonists back in the day.

You even get to visit the island of Pulau Rhun—which the Dutch wanted so badly that they handed Manhattan over to the English back in 1667. Aside from history lessons, guests can expect unrivaled natural beauty.

The big catch?

Here’s where I break your heart. Given the ultra-luxury and highly opulent nature of this hand-built cruise ship and its highly bespoke mission, its cruise programs aren’t cheap.

Actually, they’re exorbitant.

That being said, I have never seen a travel experience quite like this—so I think those price tags are slightly more reasonable when viewed through a lens of novelty, meaning, and sustainability. Also, the prices listed below include tax.

A Culinary Journey of Indonesia with Chef Wayan Kresna Yasa costs $60,480
Divers’ Paradise: Komodo National Park costs $60,480
Retracing History in the Spice Islands costs $105,840

The Most Wholesome NYE Events in the South

It’s hard to find a New Year’s party that’s actually fun for the whole family.

In my experience, the most enjoyable family-friendly events are usually found in places where kids are part of the action. In other words, the more integrated kids are into a community, the more likely you are to find adults and kids having fun in the same places.

I’m from the Midwest where family-friendly events and spaces are the norm. From major holiday parades to small-scale events, some cities go above and beyond to make sure families are having fun and building a sense of city-wide community.

But if we’re talking about pure family-friendly fun, I think the American South comes out ahead of the Midwest—as it does in many hospitality-related fields.

Want to see the proof?

In terms of the US’s most family-friendly and popular New Year’s Eve events, the South comes out far ahead. States like Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, and Texas host some of the country’s most beloved (and largest) family-friendly New Year’s parties.

The best part? Most are also a bash for the grown-ups.

If you’re on the hunt for a wholesome NYE party, here’s where to find them down South. I’ve got picks in big cities and small towns alike.

Overview: where to find family-friendly NYE parties

Best small-town pick: Gatlinburg, TN
Best family-friendly party: Atlanta, GA
Surprise pick: Lost Pines, TX
Best kid-centric atmosphere: Winter Haven, FL

Best family-friend NYE parties in the South

Best small town pick: Gatlinburg, TN

The famous Gatlinburg Space Needle hosts a massive free event for anyone and everyone. Kids and adults alike can soak up the live music and other special exhibits.

The night culminates with a ball drop at midnight, which kicks off a city-wide fireworks display. If you’re looking for a private event, head to SkyPark Gatlinburg. You’ll have panoramic city views along with free food and drinks.

Best family-friendly party: Atlanta, GA

Renowned for its massive peach drop and family-friendly, city-wide party, Atlanta’s NYE celebration is one for the books. Each year, Woodruff Park welcomes thousands of locals as they enjoy a carnival-like atmosphere.

There are carnival rides, face painting, tons of food vendors, and—of course—a massive peach drop that takes place at midnight. (It weighs 800 pounds—don’t worry, you won’t miss it.)

Surprise pick: Lost Pines, TX

The Hyatt Regency in Lost Pines, Texas located outside of Austin. Normally, Lost Pines hosts wearied city-slickers who are in search of the healing power of nature, golf, and silence.

But on New Year’s Eve, the Hyatt Regency rolls out a hugely popular party program. Similar to Atlanta’s city-wide party, this event includes a carnival atmosphere, a kid-friendly dance party, and an awesome fireworks show.

(While the hotel hasn’t announced its official NYE plans for 2024, they’re likely going to be similar to last year’s.)

Best kid-centric atmosphere: Winter Haven, FL

Did you know that Orlando is one of the US’s most popular New Year’s Eve destinations? That’s thanks to the city’s number of amusement parks. But between the cities of Tampa and Orlando, you’ll find Winter Haven—home of Florida’s Legoland.

This theme park includes rides, attractions, exhibits, and even meals that are unique to the New Year season. The Kids’ New Year’s Eve event includes an early 8 pm fireworks show—fit with Lego-shaped fireworks, too. There are twinkling lights and unique treats, along with nightly shows in the days leading up to the big night.

Just be sure to buy tickets ahead of time and book accommodation if you’re staying close by—it’s one of the most popular times to visit Legoland.

Christmas in Quebec: Best Towns to Visit in Winter

As a big fan of cold and darkness, Canada is at the top of my list in terms of holiday destinations.

But for this article, I’m not talking about the Great North in general—I’m talking about one specific province: Quebec. (Or Québec, if you speak French.)

Quebec is Canada’s French-speaking cultural isolate. Linguistically and culturally, it’s distinct from the rest of the country. Though Quebec is mostly known abroad for its metropolitan hub of Montreal, the province also borders the nation’s capital, Ottawa.

My point: It’s a bigger deal than many Americans think—both in terms of heritage and geography.

And Quebec is Canada’s largest province, meaning there’s plenty to explore. While its size makes it hard to get around, Quebec is home to dozens of quaint towns with major charm factors.

From Montreal, Quebec becomes your (winter) oyster.

Here are my top five picks for the best towns for soaking up a white Christmas. My selections are based on four factors: Christmas spirit, architectural charm, accessibility from Montreal, and blinding snowfall.

So, tire-toi une bû. (That’s Quebecois for ‘take a log’ or ‘take a seat’.) We’re going on a winter wonderland tour of Quebec.

Best towns in Quebec to visit during winter

Mont-Tremblant

This city is nestled in the Laurentian Mountains and is renowned for its Mont-Tremblant Ski Resort. It’s one of the premier spots for anyone escaping Montreal or Ottawa (located further south), especially those who like to ski or snowboard.

That being said, there’s plenty to do in this winter wonderland that’s only 80 miles north of Montreal. The area is home to thick forests with snowshoe trails cutting through them. The town center is also decked out with Christmas décor, including pubs, restaurants, and shops.

Heading to the area?

Quebec City

Surprise, surprise: Quebec City is actually the capital of the province—not Montreal. And there’s no better place than Quebec City’s downtown ‘Quartier Petit Champlain’ to get you in the mood for total Christmas cheer.

From its cobblestone streets to its decked-out shopping district, you won’t mind wandering through the winter chill for hours.

But Quebec City also offers tons of winter-themed activities. There’s a toboggan run, the famous ice hotel (hardly the only one in Canada), the Quebec Winter Carnival, ice canoeing, and all types of other hardy, outdoor winter endeavors.

Heading to the area?

Sant-Gabriel-de-Valcartier

Speaking of ice hotels, they’re a big deal in other Quebec wonderlands. Around the country, you’ll find more than a few ‘hôtel du glace’ offers.

These are exactly how they sound: larger-than-life constructions built entirely of ice. And yes, you can stay in them.

Each year, locals in Sant-Gabriel-de-Valcartier parade through town as they head to the ice hotel. It’s located just outside of town and is regularly decked out and renovated.

In a strange twist of events, Sant-Gabriel-de-Valcartier is also home to a massive, highly rated indoor water park. In winter, it opens up a few tubing lanes outside, too.

Just keep in mind that there’s no ultra-cozy downtown area to explore. This suggestion made it to the list strictly thanks to its full-scale ice hotel.

Heading to the area?

Baie-Saint-Paul

Renowned for its art history and number of galleries, the highly picturesque town of Baie-Saint-Paul might not immediately feel like a standout for winter escapes, but let me paint a picture.

Baie-Saint-Paul has many elements of an artsy, self-determining town, from its showrooms to its gourmet food and craft brewery scenes.

That means you’ll have plenty to do when the sun sets (early). And when you’re ready to leave town, you’ll also have options. In Baie-Saint-Paul, you can find things to do like dogsledding, snowshoeing, and ice skating.

I’m a huge fan of dogsledding, having experienced the thrill while in Northern Sweden last year. If you like dogs and appreciate working animals, then I highly suggest manning your own sled. The huskies are outright obsessed with pulling you through a winter wonderland.

Heading to the area?

Hotel Polaris: Welcome to the First US Hotel With Flight Simulators

One of my first big writing gigs covered gaming—and boy was I surprised by what I found when I started researching the industry.

Below the surface of EA Sports releases and battle royales like League of Legends lies a world of wildly niche gaming interests. One of the most interesting niches I covered is simulations.

Simulations cover everything imaginable—from outright weird simulations like Octo Dad: Dadliest Catch (gamers play as an octopus/father who is desperate to prevent his family from finding out he’s not human) to hardcore simulations like iRacing (gamers set up an at-home driving rig that’s highly realistic to take on other digital racers).

Some simulations actually teach you something, like iRacing. Others let you disappear into a world of nonsense, like Octo Dad.

But let’s focus on the latter for a moment: simulations that educate gamers. Some simulations are so highly realistic that they’re actually used to educate learners.

Enter the world of Microsoft Flight Simulator, a game that’s been around since the 70s and is now so detail-oriented that some pilots use it as a resource to teach students the basics.

So, how does this relate to travel?

A four-star hotel on the grounds of the US Air Force Academy just opened its doors, and it’s got two state-of-the-art flight simulators on its grounds. And yes, they’re way more realistic than the Microsoft game linked above.

Welcome to Hotel Polaris, one of the coolest new ventures in hospitality, where you can step into a simulated cockpit to man an F-16 and a 737 Max.

Hotel Polaris is taking hospitality to new heights

Hotel Polaris is located at the US Air Force Academy outside Colorado Springs, Colorado. (The academy is also home to Cadet Chapel, one of the coolest churches in the US.)

The hotel is a brand-new project from CoralTree Hospitality that opened its doors on November 14, 2024. The resort-style hotel is designed to offer guests a pathway into the Rocky Mountains while also letting them relax and engage with the Academy.

The hotel was built with family visits in mind, meaning it has a kid-friendly atmosphere and design. Not only are there six eating venues, but the hotel also organizes outdoor activities and special events for the Academy.

For example, there’s a Junior Cadets kids’ program, a glider and paper airplane program, and even a K9 cadets dog-friendly program.

But I think the coolest feature is its flight simulators. Like I mentioned up-top, it’s the only hotel in the country that offers them on the grounds.

What flight simulator programs can visitors take part in?

A look at Hotel Polaris’ flight simulator (courtesy of Hotel Polaris)

In celebration and honor of the Air Force Academy, Hotel Polaris rolled out two highly realistic flight simulators.

Above, I outlined video games like Microsoft Flight Simulator, which you can download for PC. But the offers at Hotel Polaris are a lot more realistic than a PC game thanks to their scale and realism. In other words, they aren’t video games.

Guests have access to a tactile and real-life experience thanks to full-scale flight simulators. There are three total: two F-16s and one 737 Max. They come with seats, throttles, switches, yokes, and pedals from the real-life aircraft.

To make the experience even more faithful to real-life piloting, guests learn the ropes with a 200-degree wraparound screen that immerses them 35,000 feet in the air. It’s a seriously unparalleled flight simulation experience—and it’s backed by the Air Force.

Whether or not you have an interest in earning your pilot license or joining the Air Force, that’s a pretty sweet deal.

How can you take part?

If you’re heading to Colorado Springs or the Air Force Academy, I highly suggest calling ahead of time to book a flight with the simulators. The offer is open to everyone over the age of 12 and doesn’t require any previous piloting knowledge.

The simulator programs are designed for team-building exercises, group outings, and pure fun. The programs run for a few hours, so you usually need to set aside a full afternoon to take part.

If you’re interested in taking part, check out Hotel Polaris room rates.

4 Cities in South America with Fantastic Christmas Festivities

Not everyone dreams of a white Christmas. Some want a white-sand Christmas instead.

Unsurprisingly, Caribbean countries are a top choice for Americans who want to flee the cold. But they’re far from the only option on the table for travelers in December.

If you want a temperate, warm Christmastime, then you might want to head south.

All the way to South America.

As an up-and-coming destination for tens of thousands of Americans, Christmas might be the best time to start exploring all this continent has to offer. (Again—I’m excluding the Caribbean.)

If you’re planning a Christmas escape to a warm place for this year or in 2025, then keep these capitals and popular cities on your list. Not only will you benefit from the warmer climate, but you won’t be missing out on the holiday spirit.

Remember, most South American nations are Catholic, meaning Christmas is a big deal.

Where to celebrate Christmas in South America: shortcut

Best for culture-seekers: Lima, Peru
Perfect for vibrant celebrations: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Top pick for natural wonders: Santiago, Chile
Best climate: Medellin, Colombia

Where to celebrate Christmas in South America

Best for culture-seekers: Lima, Peru

A cybernetic Christmas exhibit in downtown Lima, Peru (Getty)

Christmas meets Andes culture in Peru’s capital city. With a highly traditional and Catholic population, you’ll notice the Christmas spirit around every corner.

Noche Buena is Christmas Eve—and it’s the main appeal in Lima. Most locals head to midnight mass to ring in Christmas with family and friends.

In terms of weather, you can expect late December temperatures to hover in the 70s. Though that’s far from a warm summer day, don’t forget that this is a high-altitude city—one that will showcase clear, light-filled skies on most days.

On top of its love of Christmas and temperate climate, Lima is also one of the best places to take off on a trip to Machu Picchu.

Heading to Lima for Christmas?

Perfect for vibrant celebrations: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon.Árvore da LagoaLagoa Rodrigo de Freitas.Tree LagoonTodos os direitos reservados, sendo proibida qualquer reprodução ou divulgação das imagens para fins comerciais ou não, em qualquer mídia ou meio de comunicação inclusive na WEB, sem prévia consulta e aprovação, conforme LEI N° 96.610/1998, que rege sobre o Direito Autoral e Direito de Uso da Imagem

Want a little more fanfare with your Christmas trip to South America? Like almost every type of celebration in Rio de Janeiro, Christmas comes with tons of over-the-top festivities.

There’s a massive, decorated tree in the center of a lake, for example, that includes more than one million lights. There are also holiday-themed projections on Christ the Redeemer—literally a larger-than-life sight.

To put it simply, you’ll be celebrating Christmas in a pure Brazilian style. Along with all the recognizable decorations and celebrations, you also get to dance, parade, and otherwise enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Just keep in mind that while temperatures stay in the 80s during the day, they’ll drop into the 60s at night.

Heading to Rio for Christmas?

Top pick for natural wonders: Santiago, Chile

If you’re a little hesitant to leave behind that winter chill, then book a trip to Santiago, Chile. First and foremost, you can soak up the great mountain views.

With a dramatic mountainous backdrop, Santiago feels a little bit like Denver—and those snow-capped mountains have a classic feel to them.

You can join traditional asados or barbecues while wandering the streets and enjoying the nativity scenes, decorated trees, and treats like cola de mono (a cinnamon-infused liquor drink). Plus, there’s a massive Christmas parade with Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade-style floats. They’re massive.

But, given its proximity to the mountains and southern location, it’ll be a little cool, hovering in the high 70s during the day before dropping into the 50s at night.

Heading to Santiago for Christmas?

Best celebrations: Medellín, Colombia

A giant nativity scene shown in lights in Medellín (Getty)

Christmas light displays are basically an Olympic sport in Medellín. Known locally as el alumbrado (or ‘the lighting’ in English), this publicly funded display spans the entire city. From December 7^th until January 6^th, the lights illuminate the night.

And it’s a beautiful enough spectacle that Disney incorporated the trend into 2022’s Encanto. Seriously—I’d book a trip to Medellín just to soak up the lights.

But aside from the awesome display, you can also enjoy Christmas-themed projections at the Metro Cathedral, along with traditional goods at the city’s Christmas markets.

And did I mention that Medellín is considered the ‘City of Eternal Spring’? Temperatures hover in the low 70s in December during the day before dropping into the 60s and 50s at night.

Heading to Medellín for Christmas?