It Could Soon Cost $1,000 To Visit Komodo National Park — Here’s Why

Komodo National Park in Indonesia is home to the famous Komodo dragons. Komodo populations are in danger, and to protect their habitat, the local government is stepping in and assembling a plan to save the reptiles.

The government has proposed charging tourists $1,000 to see the dragons for themselves. The price tag will fund conservation efforts.

Read on to learn more about the incredible Komodo dragons, why the reptiles are in danger, and what the government is doing to protect them.

A beach in Komodo National Park. — Rafal Cichawa / Shutterstock

The Magic Of Komodo National Park

Komodo dragons are the largest reptiles on Earth. They can grow up to 10 feet long, weigh up to 330 pounds, and live up to 30 years. They are ferocious, but above all else, Komodo dragons are magnificent.

These creatures have set up camp on Komodo and Rinca, the two islands that make up Komodo National Park. About 1,700 of the reptiles live on Komodo, and 1,000 live on Rinca.

The park has become a popular tourist attraction over the years. In 2018, almost 200,000 people visited to see the Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. Previously, admission to the park only cost $10, but that might soon change.

Two Komodo dragons in Komodo National Park. — Sony Herdiana / Shutterstock

Why The Komodo Dragons Are In Danger

The dragons are in danger for several reasons. It’s speculated that a drop in the deer population on both islands has contributed to the declining population of Komodo dragons. What’s more, some of the dragons have been stolen and sold for roughly $35,000 around the world for medical purposes.

Aerial view of the islands in Komodo National Park. — Ivoha / Shutterstock

How The Government Is Helping

In early 2019, the local government announced that the park would close for all of 2020 so that scientists could keep a close eye on the Komodo dragon populations. The park hoped that the break would allow the mating and hatching processes of the dragons to flourish once more. The decision was controversial, however, because the closure would put a severe dent in the area’s annual revenue.

In October of 2019, the government reversed its decision and instead announced that it may charge visitors $1,000 for an annual membership to the park. People with premium memberships will be able to visit Komodo, but those without premium memberships will only be allowed on other area islands like Rinca.

The money will go directly toward conservation efforts. In addition to the annual membership system, the government is also considering a lottery system with less expensive tickets for tourists traveling on a budget.

A Komodo dragon in Komodo National Park. — Richard Susanto / Shutterstock

Other Changes In The Works

The staggering membership fees aren’t the only changes coming to Komodo. There are also plans to create a Komodo Research Center and enact stricter regulations for yachts and cruise ships.

The government has pledged $7 million to protect the national park and its gigantic inhabitants.

Nothing is set in stone yet, so we will keep you posted with any updates. And, if you can afford the hefty price tag, take a look at our list of things to do in Komodo National Park.

8 Things To Do On Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula

Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula extends northward into Lake Michigan with the main lake on one side and Grand Traverse Bay on the other side. Only 5 to 7 miles wide, the peninsula has the feel of an island — there’s water everywhere you turn, including several lakes at the center of the peninsula.

The area is perhaps best known for Traverse City, Michigan, which lies at the base of Grand Traverse Bay, but there are so many things to do on the peninsula itself that one could spend an entire vacation exploring it.

Here are eight unique things to do when visiting the Leelanau Peninsula.

Scenic Overlook 9 in Sleeping Bear Dunes. — Craig Sterken / Shutterstock

1. Drive Through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the Leelanau Peninsula’s most popular attractions. This federally protected national lakeshore is home to massive sand dunes formed by glacial sand deposits. These sand dunes have been a point of interest for centuries, eventually becoming part of the National Park System in 1970.

The main draws at Sleeping Bear Dunes are, of course, the enormous sand dunes themselves. For the bold (and for those in shape!), there is a dune-climbing area. It is, for all intents and purposes, a massive sandbox stretching as far as the eye can see. Visitors who reach the top of the dune are rewarded with a stunning view of Glen Lake.

One of the lesser-known — but just as amazing — attractions at Sleeping Bear Dunes is the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, a 7-mile one-way loop through the park that allows visitors to “go on a hike” without leaving their cars. There’s only one lane, so the tree canopies envelop you as you drive through the forest toward the lakeshore.

There are several stops along the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, but the most spectacular by far is the Lake Michigan Overlook. The overlook is perched atop one of the massive dunes more than 200 feet above the lake below. Since this is not a cliff but a sand dune, you can walk down and dip your toes in the water. But be forewarned: You then have to hike up a 200-foot sand dune, and with each step you’ll feel like you’ve only risen 3 inches! Hiking from the overlook down to the lake and back up again is a popular thing to do at the park, but be sure you have the stamina to complete the trek before attempting it.

2. Visit The Grand Traverse Lighthouse In Leelanau State Park

As we mentioned above, the Leelanau Peninsula extends into Lake Michigan. Heavy ship traffic on the Great Lakes has been a fact of life for more than two centuries, and every major shipping route once required multiple lighthouses. The Leelanau Peninsula is no exception, and at the very top of the peninsula — the northernmost tip — is the Grand Traverse Lighthouse.

Congress authorized the construction of the first lighthouse there in 1850, and the structure was completed in late 1852. That building didn’t last long, and the construction of the second lighthouse began in 1858. Although renovations have been made over the years, the 1858 lighthouse is essentially the lighthouse you’ll see there today.

The Grand Traverse Lighthouse is located within Leelanau State Park, which has a park entrance fee of $9 for a daylong visit. The park also features a campground if you’re planning a longer visit to the area. The views from the campsites are some of the best on the peninsula. You’re at the very tip of Leelanau, so you can open your tent to a 180-degree view of Lake Michigan!

Kayaking down the Crystal River in Michigan. — backpacker79 / Shutterstock

3. Kayak Down The Crystal River

The town of Glen Arbor, Michigan, sits on a strip of land between Glen Lake and Lake Michigan. The Crystal River connects the two lakes. There are several outfitters in Glen Arbor that will take you to the top of the Crystal River and let you float back down to Glen Arbor.

One such company is Crystal River Outfitters. They will provide you with transportation to the starting point as well as a single-seat kayak, double-seat kayak, or canoe. The trip is a simple, 2- to 3-hour float ending back in Glen Arbor.

The end of the float is the highlight of the trip — it’s called “shooting the tube.” Near the end of the river is a large metal culvert under a highway. It’s wide enough for all boats to pass through, and since it slopes down, you’ll get to “shoot the tube” to the next part of the river. It might sound intimidating, but it’s not. With the “tube” guiding your boat through the passage, it’s actually the easiest portion of the trip — and quite fun!

4. Eat Breakfast At Art’s Tavern In Glen Arbor

If you find yourself in Glen Arbor around breakfast time, you must visit Art’s Tavern. After our trip to Glen Arbor, I spoke to two people about our visit, and both asked me the same question: “Did you eat breakfast at Art’s Tavern?”

If it’s a weekend morning, there might be a long wait, but the food is worth it. Many of the shops in downtown Glen Arbor are open early, so you can browse the offerings at some of the adjacent shops while you wait for your table. Otherwise, you could check out the interior of the tavern, where every inch of the ceiling is covered with sports memorabilia. See if you can spot a pennant featuring your favorite team!

The restaurant’s signature dish is the Lake Michigan Breakfast: two eggs, bacon or sausage, and three malted pancakes with Leelanau County maple syrup on top. The malted pancakes are what keep people coming.

Sunset over Empire Beach in Michigan. — ehrlif / Shutterstock

5. Watch The Sunset From The Beach At Village Park

Empire, Michigan, sits on the Lake Michigan side of the peninsula. A very small town with only 375 residents, it’s a quaint getaway far from the busiest areas of Leelanau County. However, it’s home to one of the best hidden gems on the peninsula: a beach directly facing the west that offers spectacular sunset views of Lake Michigan. There’s a large parking lot at Village Park for this beach area, so there is typically plenty of parking. Bring a few chairs or just stand with your toes in the water (you know, if it’s warm enough) and watch the sun go down. Perhaps you’ll even see the sun dip below a massive ship out on the horizon.

Sunset over the docks of Fishtown. — Alexey Stiop / Shutterstock

6. Travel Back In Time In Fishtown

Want to know what life was like back in the early 1900s, when the Leelanau Peninsula was just a collection of fishing villages? Then visit Fishtown in Leland, Michigan, on the western side of the peninsula.

Fishtown is a collection of old fishing shanties located right on the harbor in Leland. All were used for the area’s commercial fishing operations more than 100 years ago. Today, the buildings mostly serve as shops and stores, but a few still operate as fishing shanties and are used for daily fishing operations.

One can sense the history of the Leelanau Peninsula while walking around Fishtown. The town of Leland exists because of these fishing operations, and great care has been taken to preserve the area as part of the town’s history. It’s truly a unique look back in time.

7. Go Shopping In Suttons Bay

If it’s shopping you’re looking for on the Leelanau Peninsula, then make plans to visit Suttons Bay, Michigan. Downtown Suttons Bay features dozens of shops surrounding a perfect little bayside main street.

Be sure to visit one of the many art galleries along the main street (also called Saint Joseph Street). Dozens of other shops offer everything from clothing to home goods to quilts. From pottery to photography to kinetic garden pieces, you’ll be sure to find unique items for your home — and wonderful mementos of your time on the Leelanau Peninsula — in Suttons Bay.

If you tire of shopping, visit the park next to the marina, only one block from Saint Joseph Street, and watch the boats out on Grand Traverse Bay. You can easily spend a full day in Suttons Bay without realizing where the time has gone.

8. Try Some Wine At French Valley Vineyards

No visit to the Leelanau Peninsula would be complete without a trip to one of the wineries. The winery with the best patio view is definitely French Valley Vineyards. The winery operation is up in the hills of the Leelanau Peninsula, but the tasting room and café are located right on Grand Traverse Bay.

The history of French Valley is quite simple. French settlers on the peninsula found the best area for growing grapes and settled there, on what is now known as French Road. When the group opened their winery, they decided to name it for the French Valley, the place where they were growing their grapes.

The tasting room overlooks the east side of the Leelanau Peninsula, just north of Suttons Bay. Sit at one of the tables or around the outdoor fireplace as you sip your wine, or perhaps settle in to one of the Adirondack chairs on the lawn and watch the boats sail in and out of Grand Traverse Bay. It’s the perfect end to a visit to the Leelanau Peninsula.

10 Reasons To Visit Reunion Island

Reunion Island: It’s a place many of us have heard of, but we’re not entirely sure why. Is it like Easter Island, with its strange statues recognized around the world? And where is it? What’s the weather like? Our questions encouraged us to take a deeper dive into why Reunion Island is worth visiting during your next vacation.

Unlike Easter Island, Reunion Island is off the coast of Africa, nearest to Madagascar, and is a Department of France, meaning it’s under French rule and its people hold French citizenship. French is the official language and the euro is the currency. This means it’s actually reasonable to get to Reunion Island via direct flight from Paris and easy to obtain a visitor’s visa. Of course, all that is wonderful, but can be said of many locations. So, why should you visit Reunion Island instead of someplace closer to home? Here are our top 10 reasons.

A basket of tropical fruits from Reunion Island. — bjul / Shutterstock

1. The Fresh Fruits And Local Cuisine Are Absolutely Delicious

Food may not always be the thing we think of first and foremost when it comes to choosing a vacation spot, but Reunion Island may change that for you. Reunion Island is modern and French, but locals have preserved their culinary traditions over many years of French rule — and assimilated culinary techniques from India, Sri Lanka, China, and mainland Africa, meaning visitors can enjoy delicious and truly unique dishes.

You’ll find the samoussa, for example — a delicacy reflective of the Indian cuisine brought by immigrants to the island decades ago. Samoussas, much like samosas, are stuffed with fish or minced meat and seasoned with Reunionese spices. You’ll also find bouchon — a take on Chinese dumplings with an island twist. Chicken curry is another popular dish, along with rougail saucisse, a surprisingly flavorful sausage made with tomato and onion.

In addition to the diverse cooked food, there’s the fruit. Oh, the fruit! You’ll find lychees, bananas, coconuts, pineapples, mangoes, guavas, and many other sweet and tangy tropical fruits served fresh from Reunion Island’s trees and vines.

Two hikers on one of the many trails on Reunion Island. — Joost van Uffelen / Shutterstock

2. There Are Nearly 600 Miles Of Hiking Trails To Enjoy

If you love the outdoors, you will fall in love with this island and may never want to leave. The island boasts 550 miles of marked hiking trails that will take you past waterfalls, canyons, up volcano walls, and through lush forests. More good news: There are no entrance fees for Reunion Island National Park, and camping sites are abundant across the island. The National Park itself occupies 42 percent of the island’s landmass, which means it truly is an outdoorsy paradise perfect for hikers of all experience levels.

3. You Can Visit A Remote Village Only Accessible By Foot Or Helicopter

Speaking of hiking, the island is home to three cirques, or small villages, one of which is only accessible by hiking in or flying via helicopter. Cirque de Mafate is inhabited by the descendants of runaway slaves who saved their lives by maintaining physical isolation in the area. There are 180 Mafatais who welcome hikers into the village. No roads lead into or out of the area, which is why you must hike in or fly in. But a dense network of hiking trails allow the Mafatais and hikers alike to gain access to the remote crater villages filled with colorful homes and buildings. Popular entry points that allow access to the trails leading to the cirque are in Riviere des Galets, Maido, Taibit, Col des Boeufs, and Dos-D’ane.

Piton de la Fournaise on Reunion Island. — Avanius / Shutterstock

4. An Incredible, Active Volcano Awaits You

One of the most famous features of Reunion Island is its amazing, active volcano. Piton de la Fournaise is a basaltic volcano with more than 150 recorded eruptions, including one as recent as August 2019, though this shouldn’t alarm you too much; the volcano erupts a few times a year in some cases. It is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, which, of course, means it draws lots of visitors looking for a unique experience. Residents celebrate the eruptions and gather at various vantage points to delight in the natural wonder. The volcano is only one of two on the island but is the more active of the two by far.

One of the many coral reefs off the coast of Reunion Island. — Joost van Uffelen / Shutterstock

5. The Dazzling Coral Reefs And Sparkling Waters Are Perfect For Swimming And Water Sports

Surrounding Reunion Island you’ll find some of the bluest, clearest waters. Swim off its shores, and you’ll have the opportunity to spot nearly 900 species of fish and dozens of different species of coral. Only certain areas are suitable for year-round diving — the easiest dives are off the west coast near Saint Pierre and Saint Paul. A marine reserve encompasses nearly 12.5 miles of protected reef, offering shelter to soft and hard corals, an abundance of fish and crustaceans, and other marine life. This means you’ll find some of the most diverse diving and snorkeling opportunities in the world. Not a diver? You can enjoy swimming, paddle boarding, or kayaking with some incredible views.

The Bassin La Paix waterfall on Reunion Island. — Zamir Popat / Shutterstock

6. You Can Go Canyoning In The Waterfalls

For those looking for a thrill on their tropical vacation, canyoning and aqua hiking are some of the most popular options on Reunion Island. There are dozens of sites suitable for the activities, including incredible waterfalls, ziplines, and slides. Grab your wetsuit and helmet, find a guide, and head out into the rivers, waterfalls, and canyons to dive under rocks, take 32-foot drops — only on advanced tours, of course — and expand your views of the world through the incredible sites and unique experiences of these intense, watery sports.

Roches Noires Beach on Reunion Island. — EndemikImages / Shutterstock

7. The Weather Is Pretty Much Perfect Any Time of Year

Whether you’re planning a summer vacation, a winter getaway, a spring break trip, or an autumn cool down, Reunion Island is ready for you. The weather in this tropical paradise is near perfect all year round. The humidity levels change and national holidays shut things down occasionally, but generally, any time of year that you want to visit, you’ll find the weather pleasant and suitable for a host of outdoor activities.

From December to March, you’ll experience temperatures around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, while in the winter months (April to November), you’ll enjoy a slightly cooler climate in the upper 60s to mid-70s.

Inside a lava tunnel on Reunion Island. — laurent caputo / Shutterstock

8. You Can Crawl Through Lava Tunnels

This is an incredibly unique experience you can have on Reunion Island. Crawl through the lava tunnels in the inactive sections of the island’s live volcanoes. You’ll need a guide, of course, to find your way into the small openings of the networks of natural and magnificent tunnels formed by volcanic pressure over millennia.

Some spots along this adventure include changing colors as you slide through narrow passages, cathedral-size halls within the formations, and even spots where you can see folds that are still forming within the tunnels.

9. You’ll Try Some Of The Most Amazing Rum In The World

If you love good rum, then you’ll need to visit Reunion Island. Multiple distilleries around the island offer their amazing liquors made according to their recipes, or you can choose to blend rum with herbs and spices for your own unique batch.

The island has been an exporter of sugarcane and rum since the 17th century, which has resulted in small-scale distilleries producing thousands of flavors. Local favorites include ginger and lemon, vanilla and coffee – the island is, after all, a huge producer of Bourbon vanilla – and even tamarind. You can visit the La Saga du Rhum museum in Saint Pierre to learn more about rum and its role in island life.

Les Cormorans Waterfall on Reunion Island. — orxy / Shutterstock

10. There Are So Many Waterfalls You Won’t Be Able To Count Them All

Reunion Island is mountainous, and it’s simply covered in waterfalls. They cascade down stunning mountainsides all around the island. They’re visible from the air, the mountain tops you can summit, the roadsides you’ll drive along, the valleys you can climb down into, and even from the water itself as you can swim in cooling pools with waterfalls in the background. And since you can explore many of them by canyoning, swimming, and hiking, the cool waters might just be a major motif during your Reunion Island adventure.

10 Capsule Wardrobe Tips For Packing For A Long Trip

There’s nothing more frustrating than opening your closet doors, seeing a rack full of clothing, and feeling like you have nothing exciting to wear on your upcoming trip. Capsule wardrobes — a term that refers to compiling outfits that leverage basic pieces that never go out of style, plus a few seasonal statement items — might just be the answer.

A capsule wardrobe will force you to take an honest look at your closet. It requires you to choose the pieces that you love for the quality and fit while discarding — or setting aside — the rest. Each item has a purpose. In the end, your capsule wardrobe will look something like this: three shirts, two tank tops, two blouses, one sweater, one blazer or cardigan, one coat, dark jeans, light jeans, one skirt, one dress, leggings, and three pairs of shoes.

In addition to being cost-effective and eco-friendly, a handpicked capsule wardrobe can be extremely useful, allowing you to maximize the space in your small suitcase or carry-on. No need to worry about over packing or going over luggage weight limits. Plus, getting ready in the morning becomes quick and easy, allowing you more time to explore new places.

A capsule wardrobe in a suitcase. — Geneva Vanderzeil apairandasparediy.com / Flickr

1. Determine Your Travel Season And Activities

As the seasons change, so will your capsule wardrobe. It’s common to build a capsule wardrobe for each season to include the foundation pieces plus an added statement piece or two. During summer, your basics may include an extra dress or skirt, while during the winter it may be an extra shawl or sweater.

Your travel purpose — whether you’ll be stopping in Santiago before hiking Patagonia or city-hopping in Europe — will affect your capsule wardrobe choices as well. Traveling through cities will require a slightly different wardrobe than setting out on an outdoors-heavy itinerary. While it makes sense to bring hiking boots on one trip, simple sneakers may suffice for another.

2. Pick Quality Over Quantity

If your wardrobe is only made up of one or two dozen items of clothing, you want to make sure they’re durable. You’ll be wearing your foundation pieces at least once a week — whether your trip will last a week or a month. The frequency of use plus washing machine cycles can stretch and distort inexpensive clothing, requiring you to replace essential pieces every year or two. Invest in higher-quality clothing, and you’ll have your favorites with you and ready to pack at a moment’s notice for years to come.

You should also take into consideration how your clothing will look when you take it out of your suitcase. It may be a good idea to invest in clothing made of fabrics that resist wrinkling. Think leather, jeans, and Tencel or Lycocell — natural plant fibers that have the flow and feel of silk.

Our Pick: These pants from Everlane go with a variety of tops and are a timeless piece for any wardrobe. Bonus: They have an elastic waist for maximum comfort — so go ahead and have that extra scoop of gelato.

3. Pick A Color Palette

Although picking a color palette may sound overwhelming, it’s easier than you think. Most people are already drawn to certain colors, and when you determine a color palette for your travel capsule wardrobe, you can simply note which colors in your closet catch your eye. For example, if you have multiple items in various shades of blue, two red blouses, and a pair of orange shorts, choose to build your capsule wardrobe around a blue color palette. Another option is to choose colors that go together, like soft pastels or jewel tones. Having a color palette will make it easier to curate several different outfits that feature a single item of clothing because almost everything will match.

Our Pick: It’s hard to go wrong with a classic white button-down that can be accessorized in many different ways — and dressed up or down. The Passage Shirt from Athleta is an updated and lightweight version of the classic white button-down that’s a great addition to a capsule wardrobe.

An example of capsule wardrobe items. — Geneva Vanderzeil apairandasparediy.com / Flickr

4. Incorporate A Few Neutral Basics

Capsule wardrobes are based on the idea that you can and should re-wear your quality items. This means having basic pieces (for example, blue jeans, round-toed flats, solid-colored t-shirts, little black dresses, and so on) that can easily pair with other things. It helps if you pick your basic items in neutral colors such as white, grey, cream, tan, or black. These neutral foundation pieces should also be timeless and withstand the currents of “fast fashion.” For example, avoid studded pumps that may be “in” during one season and “out” the next season. Naturally, having these basics in your closet makes packing a breeze. If you need a dress during your upcoming trip, you can grab your capsule go-to with confidence, knowing it will pair well with everything else you pack.

Our Pick: Regardless of the time of year, a long-sleeve sweater is a travel must. Whether you are cold on the plane, battling a chilly night, or need the perfect accessory for around your shoulders, a timeless cashmere sweater is the answer.

5. Mix And Match For Different Occasions

Think about all the different occasions you’ll have to dress for during your trips. Are you going on a walking tour or spending an evening at a rooftop bar? Pieces that can be mixed and matched for day-wear and evening-wear allow you to make the most of your capsule wardrobe.

Ideally you should be able to wear each piece you pack in three different settings. For example, solid-colored dresses are a perfect basic item of clothing because they’re so versatile. A dress can be worn casually for croissants in a cafe followed by an adventurous day of museum hopping, or it can be dressed up with a blazer and flats for an evening drink downtown. Take the same approach for every other piece of clothing in your capsule wardrobe.

Our Pick: This back-keyhole maxi dress from J.Jill in heather grey can be worn spring through fall and is wrinkle resistant, meaning it can be worn right out of the suitcase!

6. Pick Layering Pieces

Layers are a traveler’s best friend, especially during long trips. Layering can spruce up a stale look and create a completely new and interesting outfit. For instance, a sweater worn over a blouse with a hint of collar creates almost-effortless dimension. Cardigans and blazers are also great layering pieces that provide warmth but also add flair to an outfit. Another great layer is a solid, neutral-colored tank top which can be worn by itself, under long-sleeve shirts, or paired with a jacket for warmth. Layered outfits can be worn for multiple occasions and activities. They’re not only practical; they’re also fashionable.

Our Pick: Cardigans were made for layering, and this beauty from Madewell is both cozy and stylish.

Tops from a capsule wardrobe. — Chiociolla / Shutterstock

7. Add Color And Prints

Just because a capsule wardrobe is practical doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Once you have your foundation pieces, you can start to play around by adding pops of color that compliment your basics. Adding colors, textures, and prints can spice up the old look and make you feel like you have a brand new outfit. Keep mixing and matching in mind, and know that a statement piece or two can go a long way. For your long trip, consider taking two to three statement pieces that you can switch out when the seasons change.

Our Pick: Animal print has been having a moment for the last two seasons, and is still all the rage for Fall 2019. A leopard print scarf pairs perfectly with a neutral palette and dresses up basics in a capsule wardrobe.

8. Limit Yourself To Three Pairs Of Shoes

Although you may want a pair of shoes for every type of outfit, you only truly need a few pairs of shoes for the duration of most trips. Shoes can be quite heavy and take up space in a carry-on or small suitcase, so you’ll want to limit yourself to three pairs.

Walking long distances during travel is not uncommon. Comfortable walking shoes are essential to your travel capsule wardrobe. They can vary from white sneakers to black running shoes or hiking boots.

Your second pair of shoes should elevate your outfits. Consider stylish, comfy flats or strappy sandals. When you don’t want to sport your sneakers, these can be worn for an evening out on the town. If you’re traveling through different seasons and climates, you may need a third pair. As fall or winter approaches, you’ll need a pair of boots to keep your feet warm.

Our Pick: Anything from Teva! If it’s a comfy sandal you desire for trekking around cities or a lightweight boot for hiking, this brand never lets us down in comfort or style.

9. Don’t Forget To Accessorize

Accessories are a great way to show off style and personality. One of the best multi-purpose accessories is a scarf. A fun, colorful scarf can not only keep you warm but also create an exciting outfit. Otherwise, you can thread a thin scarf through belt loops to add a pop of color to your jeans or throw it over your shoulders or head when your travels take you to a church, temple, or mosque. Scarves can also be used as blankets while in the airport or on a flight.

It’s important to keep the same minimalist principles in mind for your accessories. This means bringing one of each type of accessory: one scarf, one belt, one hat, one purse. A purse that has a long cross-body strap with a zipper can be a great option for keeping your valuables safe. Plus, swapping accessories out each day can make you feel like you’re wearing a brand new outfit, even as you cycle through your capsule wardrobe.

Our Pick: The perfect travel crossbody, which can be worn as a fanny pack or a purse, is the Paravel Doubletake.

10. Add Metallic Accents

Your jewelry completes your travel capsule wardrobe. Mixing and matching earrings, watches, rings, and necklaces allows you to enjoy a whole new look each day of your trip. Metals, whether silver or gold, look amazing with any color palette and combination. Although jewelry tends to be small, keep with the minimalist principles when packing. You’ll avoid a tangle of options — and overwhelming yourself with choice. Depending on where your trip will take you, it can also be a good idea to keep your jewelry understated to avoid unwanted attention during your travels.

Our Pick: These stud earrings look like a million bucks but don’t come with a hefty price tag. They can be worn on the go or out for a nice dinner, and they go with almost anything.

Japan Airlines Introduces A Child Map (And Here’s What People Are Saying About It)

Traveling can be uncomfortable and frustrating for many reasons: no leg room, turbulence, barefoot passengers, people sneezing and coughing up a storm. The list goes on and on. Everyone has an in-flight pet peeve. For some people, babies on board are a real nuisance.

To accommodate passengers who don’t want to be near babies, Japan Airlines created a feature that shows you where small children are seated on your flight.

This new policy has sparked a great deal of controversy. Is this feature considerate of older passengers, or is it just plain disrespectful to families trying to get somewhere like everyone else? Read on to learn about the specifics of the child map, what Twitter users have to say, and what the airline offers families.

The Specifics Of The New Feature

The feature maps the seats of children under the age of 2. When you’re selecting your seat, a baby symbol labels seats saved for the littlest kiddos.

This new tool begs the question How effective can a baby symbol actually be? If a child is crying, will being ten seats away instead of one seat away make that much of a difference? Also, you might still get seated near a young child if their parents book after you do. So what then?

A lot of people feel very strongly about the new tool, whether they’re in favor of it or not. What we can say for sure is that there are two different sides to this story, and both of them have a point.

I used to feel and say exactly what you have just said – but after having my own son, I am very sympathetic to parents travelling with kids. If you're not happy with a screaming child in the cabin then I am more than happy to you to try and reason with them 😉

— Andrew Lim (@andrewlim85) September 26, 2019

The Great Debate

The announcement of Japan Airlines’s child map has been extremely polarizing on Twitter and other social media platforms.

Venture capitalist Rahat Ahmed sparked controversy with a tweet stating he loves the feature so much he thinks the child icon should be mandatory for all airlines. In his tweet, he lamented over a frustrating 13-hour flight with three “screaming” children.

In response, traveler, public speaker, and entrepreneur Andrew Lim said he once could relate to Ahmed’s claim, but after having a child of his own, his stance has changed.

One woman agreed with Ahmed. She said, “On your point, drunks aren’t tolerated. My mum did not travel on flights with me as a baby and waited until I was older as it was best for everyone.” Her view? “That is the sensible and considerate thing to do.”

Even though Ahmed’s commentary bothered many, traveling for 13 hours with constant noise must’ve been pretty exhausting. There’s validity to both sides of the argument.

A young child on an airplane. — Demkat / Shutterstock

What Else We Know

Even though the new policy has been labeled “anti-kiddo” by opposers, Japan Airlines does have several accommodations for families that are worth mentioning.

For instance, strollers can be checked for free. If you don’t want to bring a stroller but could still use one, you can actually borrow one of their strollers — at no cost — to get around the terminal. Though the offer is limited by availability, it’s still a nice gesture to make traveling run more smoothly for parents and families.

Families also get priority boarding. If you purchase it in advance, you can have a meal prepared for your child. Different types of food are available for children of different ages.

The airline’s child map is certainly controversial, but kids on flights aren’t the only point of contention. Another great debate: Is it totally fine or totally gross to be barefoot on a flight? One of our writers admits she’s gone barefoot on a plane, but ultimately, you decide!

8 Great Things To Do In Copenhagen Near The Airport

With its iconic harbor, vintage amusement park, and sparkling canal system, Copenhagen is a not-to-be-missed European destination all on its own.

But with airlines such as Norwegian Air using the Copenhagen Airport as a stopping-off hub for countless flights between the U.S. and other European cities, the Danish capital has also become a popular spot for 6- to 8-hour layovers.

The good news about Copenhagen is that visitors can see a lot of the city in that amount of time, and many of the city’s major attractions are just a 15- to 20-minute trip from the airport.

Also adding to Copenhagen’s appeal as a layover destination is the convenience of the city’s metro system. An efficient metro station is located at the airport, and attendants are often on hand to help guide visitors who have questions about buying tickets or choosing the right metro stop.

So, with all that Copenhagen has to offer, there is certainly no reason to slog through a long layover in an airport lobby.

Here are some of the best things to do near the Copenhagen Airport.

Nyhaven Harbor in Copenhagen. — Cindy Barks

1. Stroll Through Nyhavn

When most people think of Copenhagen, the lovely Nyhavn Harbour is likely the image that comes to mind. Rows of multicolored buildings line a harbor filled with sailboats — a vivid scene that is reflected in the water of the canal.

Cafés and restaurants offer lively outdoor seating all along the harbor, and bicycle riders vie with pedestrians along the busy byways.

The neighborhood was the longtime home of author Hans Christian Andersen, and it has a definite fairy-tale vibe. Andersen is said to have written classics such as “The Princess and the Pea” and “Little Claus and Big Claus” while living at various addresses in Nyhavn.

The harbor is especially lovely on a sunny day, so if you are lucky enough to land in Copenhagen in bright, cloudless weather, a stroll through Nyhavn cannot be beat.

At the Copenhagen Airport metro station, buy a ticket to the Kongens Nytorv station, about a 15-minute ride. The Nyhavn Harbour is just a 5-minute walk away. Expect to spend an hour or two walking through the area.

Canal tours through Copenhagen. — Cindy Barks

2. Explore The City By Boat

For a quick and delightful overview of the city, hop onto one of the myriad canal tour boats that are available in a number of spots in Nyhavn.

The tours, which offer a variety of times and itineraries, typically take in such popular attractions as the Copenhagen Opera House, the Amalienborg and Christiansborg Palaces, and the Little Mermaid statue.

Usually about an hour long, the tours are available in Danish or English and cost about 95 Danish kroner (about $14). They are free with the official Copenhagen Card (but only with a departure from Gammel Strand, not from Nyhavn).

Tip: Opt for the hop-on, hop-off canal tour, which will allow you to stop and explore the attractions rather than just seeing them from the water.

Street food in Copenhagen. — Cindy Barks

3. Lunch At A Street Food Market

After a Nyhavn stroll and a city cruise, the perfect place for lunch is just a 10-minute walk away. Head across the Inderhavnsbroen Bridge to The Bridge Street Kitchen for a cool outdoor dining experience that is part ethnic street-food scene, part food-truck festival.

The Bridge Street Kitchen consists of a collection of cuisine options spread out near the bridge. It is billed as a “melting pot of street-food kitchens and bars serving tasty food and drinks from around the world,” and it offers everything from lamb curry to pizza and burgers.

For those seeking a taste of traditional Danish fare, a great option is the Palaegade Street Kitchen stand, with its selection of open-face sandwiches. Among the choices are crispy fried fish garnished with rémoulade and raw herring seasoned with pickled onions and dill. The sandwiches come in a cute box, making them perfect for a picnic at one of The Bridge Street Kitchen’s wooden tables.

Bikers enjoying Copenhagen. — Cindy Barks

4. Bike The Streets And Bridges

To feel like a local in Copenhagen, there’s no better mode of transportation than the bicycle. Throngs of cyclists crowd the bike paths on sunny days, and the Visit Copenhagen website calls biking the “authentic, local way” to travel.

“It is fun, healthy, easy, cheap, and without a doubt, the best way to see Copenhagen,” says the website.

Bike rentals are available all over town, and visitors can go on their own or with a tour. The City Bike is available through Bycyklen.

The Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen. — Anastasia Pelikh / Shutterstock

5. Ride A Vintage Roller Coaster At Tivoli Gardens

For a thrilling time in a classic setting, head to Tivoli Gardens, an 1840s-era amusement park located next to Copenhagen Central Station.

At just 15 to 20 minutes from the airport by train, Tivoli makes a convenient stop on a limited layover schedule. As one of the most popular amusement parks in the world, it’s sure to be crowded on a sunny day. Still, the unique rides, including a 1914 wooden roller coaster, make the visit worthwhile.

After checking out the rides, head over to the Tivoli Food Hall, where you’ll find spit-roasted chickens, Danish smorrebrod, and Japanese and Chinese street food.

The park is also a great place for a stroll amidst the lush gardens, exotic architecture, and beautiful scenery.

During the fall, Tivoli is transformed into a charming Halloween universe, and during the holidays, it becomes a cozy Christmas market featuring 60 or so stalls that offer decorations, knitted products, snacks, deli items, sweets, and hot drinks.

A 15-minute train ride will take you from the airport to Tivoli. Adult admission costs about 110 to 120 Danish kroner ($16 to $17.50), and children’s admission costs 50 Danish kroner (about $7.30). Depending on your interest, a visit to Tivoli could take all day or just an hour or two.

The National Aquarium in Copenhagen. — VisitCopenhagen.com

6. Explore The National Aquarium

If it’s a rainy day, or even if it’s not, Copenhagen’s National Aquarium is a great choice for children and adults.

The five-armed aquarium has water all around and is intended to give visitors the impression of being underwater. Billed as the largest aquarium in Northern Europe, the Copenhagen attraction promises a “round-the-world journey under the sea.”

With its innovative whirlpool-inspired design, the aquarium’s architecture has won international recognition. Inside, visitors will find thousands of fish and sea creatures in 48 aquariums.

Entry to the aquarium costs 170 Danish kroner (about $25), but it’s free with the Copenhagen Card (54 euros or about $59 for 24 hours). Allow a couple of hours to take in the aquarium.

The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen. — VisitCopenhagen.com

7. Visit The Little Mermaid

No visit to Copenhagen would be complete without a visit to The Little Mermaid, a 1913 work of art that is displayed on a rock near the Langelinie Pier.

Based on the fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen, the bronze sculpture was created by Edvard Eriksen and was a gift from Danish brewer Carl Jacobsen to the city of Copenhagen.

The statue, which depicts a mermaid becoming human, has become an iconic symbol of Copenhagen to the world.

Thanks to its location in the sea, the mermaid appears to be swimming to the surface as the tide changes.

“Every morning and evening she swims to the surface from the bottom of the sea and, perched on her rock in the water, she stares longingly towards the shore hoping to catch a glimpse of her beloved prince,” the Visit Copenhagen site explains.

The Little Mermaid is a major tourist attraction in Copenhagen, so be prepared to be surrounded by hundreds of others when you visit. Try to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds. While the statue is visible from the Copenhagen canal tours, you’ll have to arrive by land to get a close-up look.

Amalienborg Palace in Copenhagen. — S-F / Shutterstock

8. Immerse Yourself In History

Copenhagen is home to a wealth of museums, palaces, and castles. If you’re there for only a day, you will likely have to choose just one.

The National Museum of Denmark is the country’s largest museum of cultural history, and it features everything from Viking-era items to golden horns to mummies.

The Christiansborg Palace, with its pretty central spire, is located on the tiny island of Slotsholmen and is home to the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Ministry of State. The palace also showcases the Queen’s tapestries, which depict 1,000 years of Danish history.

As the residence of Denmark’s royal family, the stately Amalienborg Palace is a repository of the country’s royal history. Visitors can take in the daily noontime changing of the guard from the beautiful palace square.

For Shakespeare lovers, a visit to the imposing Kronborg Castle might be worth the longer trek. The castle is known worldwide as Hamlet’s Castle and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is located about 28 miles north of the Copenhagen Airport in the town of Elsinore, and a visit will involve a 45-minute train ride and a 20-minute walk.

More information about getting to Copenhagen attractions from the airport is available on the VisitCopenhagen website.