Scenic A-frames Around Seattle: Top 5 Airbnb Picks

Ah, the humble A-frame.

For most Americans, this term conjures images of steep-roofed cottage-like homes tucked into the forest.

They’re often associated with summer camps and outdoor trips for large families—I can almost smell the wooden walls and furniture as I research this article.

At their most basic, A-frames provide a solid home base for travelers as they adventure through the outdoors. Others might be more design-centric or modern, or closely located to hotspots like Yellowstone and Denali.

But the very best A-frames are those that seem perfectly integrated into their environment.

They don’t just provide a place to rest your head and store your skis—they’re like tiny extensions of the forest. Ones that harken back to tales like Hansel and Gretel (with a happier ending, of course.)

On my hunt for the best A-frames out there, I’ve found a handful of truly remote, stylish, and bold A-frames.

Ones that are perfectly suited to the towering forests of the Pacific Coast and, more specifically, around Puget Sound.

Looking for a little escape from Seattle? Here’s where to go.

Hand Crafted A Frame—Private 80-Acre Forest

Meet the A-frame that inspired me to write this article.

From the outside, the construction looks like a forgotten oasis in the towering forest. The back patio is perfectly designed to let guests immerse themselves in the forest.

And on the inside, it’s a designer’s delight. From the light fixtures to the marble countertops, this spot has serious character.

Book here

Beachfront lagoon home

I know I’ve been raving about forests (which I’m right to do in the Pacific Northwest), but this gem also offers a beach view.

It’s fully surrounded by untouched forest, which gives you the best of both worlds. Plus, it’s one of the spacier A-frames out there for those who don’t want to feel too cramped.

Book here

Lake Front Retreat (Sauna & Hot Tub)

What’s better than lounging around an A-frame and soaking up the ripe-green forest? Doing that from a hot tub on a patio.

Welcome to the highly magical lakefront retreat. This place specializes in outdoor amenities, including a fire pit, hot tub, sauna, and boat-ready equipment like kayaks.

It’s also much larger than other A-Frames on this list (including the aforementioned beachfront lagoon), while its design is modern and cozy.

Book here

Escape to a romantic A-frame

This A-frame has all the basics you’ll need for a cozy retreat. Plus, it delivers on mood.

The interior is a blend of industrial metal and woodwork—a style that I think fits wonderfully with the forest outside. And speaking of the forest, the windowed walls let you seamlessly delve into the wilderness without leaving the couch.

The cherry on the top? It’s very pup-friendly.

Book here

Dael Hus: Whimsical A-frame

Whimsy is a fitting word.

From its shingled exterior to its angular innards, this spot will have you looking around in wonder. I’m in love with its unique construction, along with its features—things like brass faucets to its bespoke hot tub. (Say no more!)

Its only fault is that it’s not entirely surrounded by woodlands. However, it has a great patio that’s enclosed by trees.

Book here

Welcome to the Future: Travel Goes Green

One of the most impactful travel trends on social media in 2024 is eco-friendly travel.

Going green isn’t just a budding interest—it’s something that many travelers are focused on when booking.

So much so that airlines now offer passengers the chance to offset their carbon footprint by paying a small fee.

That makes sense, as travel creates strain on the environment. Flights, in particular, emit tons of carbon into the atmosphere. I’m talking metric tons, not just ‘lots’.

This puts travelers at odds with their goals.

After all, many people fly across the world to immerse themselves in our planet’s greatest wonders, from Zhangjiajie National Forest Park to the Great Barrier Reef to the Amazon Rainforest.

But travelers—especially those in Gen Z—are all too aware that exploring nature irresponsibly can threaten our world’s most stunning biospheres. (And the communities that take care of them.)

With each year, the future of travel becomes greener, propelled by the interests of travelers.

While a truly carbon-neutral tourism industry is a long way away, I’m here to demystify what going green in terms of travel really means—and why the challenge of taking on eco-friendly travel isn’t so out of scope after all.

So, how did we get here?

Before we dive into green travel, let’s cover why it’s necessary.

As mentioned up top, aviation is the greatest contributor to carbon emissions in the context of travel.

Aviation as a whole contributes around 5% to the world’s total carbon footprint annually. But not all who fly are doing so for travel. Some are on business. Others are visiting family, or heading to an international university, or heading off to conduct remote studies.

Only around 2.4% of that total comes from tourists.

So, plane travel is a big issue—but it’s hardly the only one.

When we talk about ecotourism and green travel, our carbon footprint is only one part of the picture. We also need to discuss environmental degradation.

Hotels and resorts (especially those that pop up in fragile environments like jungles and small islands) contribute to contamination. Where does all that waste go? And where do all those construction materials come from?

Overtourism is also an issue. As areas become popular and tourist infrastructure is put into place, fragile ecosystems are pushed to the brink.

In other words, unfettered tourism destroys biodiversity and the environments that attract visitors to begin with.

The bright side

As a former student of foreign tourism investment and environmental sustainability (I have my degree in Global Studies), I can tell you first-hand that there are a lot of challenges facing the industry.

That being said, it’s not all doom and gloom.

As the travel industry matures, it becomes more ethical. I think this is a good point to bring up Hanlon’s razor, a philosophical argument that says we shouldn’t attribute to malice what can be attributed to ignorance.

What I mean is—now that tourists are aware of the hefty impact of their travels, we’re motivated to improve.

And now that tour providers and hospitality groups know that, they’re more motivated than ever to improve their ecological standings.

What green travel looks like

There are dozens of ways that you can incorporate green principles into your travel plans immediately. And let me shout this for those in the back: it’s not going to take away from your trip or make things less fun.

It’s going to do the opposite, in fact.

Here’s what green travel looks like today:

You can opt to travel with carbon-neutral travel companies and stay at carbon-neutral resorts. These experiences involve offsetting your carbon footprint by contributing financially to carbon absorption projects and environmental initiatives.

Usually, ecotourism companies seek to balance out their carbon emissions—but always read the fine print. Not all claims are backed up with evidence.

You can opt for forms of alternative travel. Sure, trains and ferries and carpools aren’t exactly carbon-neutral. But there’s a growing movement to offer more accessible forms of green transportation.

Train tickets tend to be pricy, but with new bullet trains running between major cities across Europe and Asia, options are expanding quickly.

You can opt for community-based tourism. If you have a background in anthropology and travel, then you might have been wondering when I’d bring up people.

Immediate efforts in sustainability are usually happening on the ground-floor. As in, the local communities know how to care for the environment, and they’re spearheading efforts to preserve and regenerate resources.

Opting for community-based tourism means your money goes straight into their projects—and your stay is guaranteed to be ethical because it’s overseen by locals.

One classic example of community-based tourism is Colombia’s Ciudad Perdida, a ‘lost’ city that can only be accessed via treks guided by local indigenous groups.

Carry-on Luggage: Top Picks for All Types of Travelers

The last time I checked a piece of luggage, I was moving to another continent.

Since that time five years ago, I’ve stuck to carry-on suitcases.

Carry-ons are a go-to for most travelers because of convenience and trip length.

In other words, they’re easy to carry, and not too many people need a checked piece of luggage to get through a weeklong trip.

On top of that, carry-ons are easier to keep track of.

There’s no risk of lost luggage, nor do travelers need to wait to pick up their suitcases after a long flight. Just deboard the plane and get where you’re going.

Best of all, carry-ons are easier to manage.

They’re easier to tug along cobblestone streets in chic cities, easier to haul into taxis when heading to a resort, and easier to unload and reload when you arrive at your rental.

That being said, not all carry-ons are created equally.

As travel becomes more and more commonplace, the number of travel products out there increases—good and bad alike. Avoid the duds with this list of the best carry-ons.

Top carry-on pick: Travelpro Maxlite

I’m usually a fan of hard-shell luggage. It tends to be more durable and less prone to damage and stains. I’m rolling that back on this recommendation (pun intended).

The Travelpro Maxlite stands out because it’s one of the most light-weight on the market. Also, it’ll give you the space you need to chronically overpack with 21’ inches in length and plenty of room to breathe thanks to that soft shell.

Shop here

Most rugged pick: Yeti Crossroads

Yeah, Yeti does carry-ons now—and they’re highly rated.

I also think they’re the most attractive soft-shell setup I’ve seen in a while. (Why do soft-shell suitcases always look shabby? Or is that just me?)

Its exterior is made of TuffSkin Nylon, so it’s ready to tumble—through mud, rain, and more. Even its wheels are thick and ready to go off-road. I’ve yet to see that kind of feature on a carry-on, which should make Yeti the go-to for adventurous travelers.

Shop here

Best for overpackers: Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential

Though not quite as pricey as the luxury pick (below), you’re going to pay a pretty penny for the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential.

And speaking of pretty, this is a handsome carry-on. But it’s not just a pretty face.

The baseline essential has slightly more space than its competitors. While being 22’ versus the standard 21’ inch might not sound like much, only the baseline has the CX expansion feature—a button that allows you to expand the suitcase before compressing it back into shape. Like Spanx, but for a suitcase.

Shop here

Best mini option: Muji

What if I told you that I’ve been jet-setting around the world with a carry-on from a Japanese stationary brand?

And that it captured my heart even as one of the smaller carry-ons out there?

Though you can’t buy this hard shell on Amazon (only from the Muji site or a store), I highly recommend taking a look. The suitcase has all the necessary features needed, like interior pockets and a TSA-approved lock.

But here’s why I love it, aside from its tiny, sleek size and sexy design: its wheels are almost silent. Priced like a Camry, runs like a Rolls Royce.

Shop here

Top luxury pick: Tumi Alpha International Dual Access

It’s a luxury option that was created with frequent travelers in mind.

There are two exterior pockets that make it easy to store the items you’ll need the most, minimizing the need for a handbag. Plus, its four-wheel rolling system is ready to take on even the most destroyed cobblestones and sidewalks this planet has to offer.

Shop here

Autumn Escapes: Best Cottages in Massachusetts for Soaking Up Fall Foliage

Autumn is the perfect time to get cozy.

As temperatures drop, forests across the country transform. Leaves slowly die in a beautiful display, ushering in the start of the harvest season. It’s a time to visit pumpkin patches, sip on spiced drinks, and cuddle up with loved ones in front of bonfires.

And what better place to do all of the above than while staying at a cottage?

In New England, no less?

While watching the leaves change is a classic pastime across the US, New England has a reputation for its stunning displays. And Massachusetts, with its towering forests and stretches of unspoiled land, has more hidden escapes than you’d expect to find in the 7^th smallest state.

Whether you’re looking to head on a romantic and cozy couples retreat or simply drift back into the embrace of Mother Nature, Massachusetts should be in your travel rotation.

Looking for the perfect cottage escape to enjoy fall foliage in Massachusetts? Start with this list. It’s cottage-core… Massachusetts style.

Family adventure chalet

Otis, Massachusetts (Berkshires)

There’s a lake, kayaks, and a sauna—need I say more?

Well, I’d actually like to rave about the thick woods surrounding the house. They’re a Hollywood-caliber backdrop for all the outdoor activities you’ll want to enjoy in the fall.

There’s a fire pit for bonfires and a sauna for warming up. Plus, extras like a grill and even a pizza oven. The interior also reflects the rental’s moniker of a chalet—you’ll notice tons of wood features that feel purely Alpine.

Book here

Cozy lakeside cottage retreat

Groton, Massachusetts

This lakeside retreat truly is a remote oasis. But the home was remodeled in 2017, which means guests get all the modern amenities and finishing touches of a newer rental.

What I love most here is all the outdoor space.

The dock leads to a lovely pond, which is surrounded by all the outdoor features you’ll need to soak up the autumn beauty. Best of all, there’s a fire pit that perfect for toasting s’mores while enjoying the crisp air.

Book here

Farm Stay at Historic Ski Lodge

Holden, Massachusetts

No, you’re not in Giverny. This historic ski lodge might look like the stuff of rural France, but it’s recently been converted into a barn stay.

Though you aren’t immediately sheltered in the trees, you’ll have a spectacular view of the surrounding woodlands. It’s ideal for evening strolls and soaking up the views from the back patio.

Inside, you’ll find plenty of antiques, adding to its historical allure.

Book here

House on Otter Pond

Tolland, Massachusetts (Berkshires)

Like other lakeside, autumn-centric rentals, guests have kayaks and canoes ready to take out on the water. And while Otter Pond might sound sparing, the body of water looks more like a lake.

And who doesn’t like to soak up an autumn dreamland from the water?

On top of the scenic surroundings, the house is warmed by a wood-burning stove, which turns any autumn adventure into a cozy, romantic retreat.

Book here

Cottage with Private Beach

Ashburnham, Massachusetts

This dark-wood cottage is remote and located right on a private beach.

It’s sheltered by a stretching, healthy woodland, which offers a private way to soak up the stunning foliage. I’d personally spend my time at the fire pit by the lakeside.

But even if you’re indoors, there are enough windows in this cottage to provide an endless view of the natural wonders outside. Just keep in mind that this stay is slightly more rustic than others on this list.

Book here

Hidden Gem Barn

Acton, Massachusetts

Located only thirty minutes from Boston, this is the most accessible fall cottage selection on the list. The barn is located near the host’s main home, which means it might not be the best for those seeking total privacy.

That being said, guests have declared this spot a ‘home away from home’ thanks to the hospitality of the hosts. (That’s always a huge plus for me.)

To top off this wooded escape, there’s also a stunning patio that lets you immerse yourself in the forest as it transforms in autumn.

Book here

Airbnbs in Barcelona’s Ciutat Vella: Recs from a Resident

I’m sure you’re aware: Barcelona is a hot spot for tourists.

Finding a good place to stay in a city that hosts tens of millions of visitors each year should be easier than it is. But ever-rising lodging prices can make finding a good homebase difficult—and so can the city’s oldest and most complex neighborhoods.

Known as Ciutat Vella (‘old city’ in Catalan), this area includes the neighborhoods of Born, Raval, Gotico, and Barceloneta. (You might see Born listed as Sant Pere, Santa Caterina, and Ribera.)

Ciutat Vella is a sought-after but difficult-to-navigate part of the city. The streets are medieval, winding and dim and oftentimes crowded. Some are extremely dirty, while others are picturesque and lined with boutique shops.

In other words, you need to know where to go in Ciutat Vella for a good stay.

Want to stay in Ciutat Vella? I’ve got suggestions for you based on location and proximity to cool museums and top landmarks. Take my word for it—I’m a resident of Born.

I’ve selected a few great spots, including room shares with Barcelona residents.

All Airbnbs suggested here have their license numbers listed clearly. As far as I know, the only exemptions are rooms offered in shared apartments, as Barcelona stringently monitors the number of registrations offered.

Best in Born

Sealona Born

I’m starting off with my favorite pick. (As mentioned above, I live in Born—so I’m a bit biased.)

This spot puts you a few seconds away from the city’s premier park: Ciudadella. It’s also located near a lovely promenade, my preferred grocery store (Tot al Born), and tons of wonderful eateries.

The design is also top-tier—something that is a bit harder to find in Barcelona. It’s also located on an upper floor, which helps remove you from the city’s noise.

Book here

Central Borne

This Airbnb also has fantastic trappings. Its arched doorways and wooden beamed ceilings are common throughout Ciutat Vella.

The exposed stone walls are also a callback to Ciutat Vella’s ancient history. (It started as a Roman colony called Barcino—I’m not using ‘ancient’ lightly.)

The location is slightly on the edge of the neighborhood, providing easy access into Barceloneta and Gotico.

Book here

Luminous Apartment

The apartment might not be the fanciest, and there are quite a few rules tacked on to ensure there are no noise complaints. That being said, this spot has a great location on Argenteria, a picturesque street that empties into the plaza before Santa Maria del Mar.

So if you’re okay with swapping out a more classic Barcelona design for a more modern unit, this is a great option.

Book here

Best in Gotico

Elegant Zen Studio

This loft is located right on Las Ramblas, a busy promenade that runs from Plaza Catalunya down toward the sea. If crowds aren’t your thing, steer clear.

That being said, I chose this very zen studio because I think it helps balance out the noise of your surroundings. Along with Las Ramblas, you’re also close to premier shopping.

So if you want to be smack in the middle of the action in Barcelona without missing out on a good night’s rest, here’s your hidden gem.

Book here

Room Gallery Boutique

I’m recommending two Airbnbs offering room stays—and this is the first.

The host Mariana has received stellar reviews from past visitors, which means you’ll get a bit of VIP access into the city’s inner workings and its best offerings.

Oh, and history. This stay is located in one of Gotico’s most historic buildings. Once again, you’ll be facing a pretty hectic world just outside, as this is a popular area. That being said, this newer stay has a perfect 5/5 rating on Airbnb. Get it while it’s hot!

Book here

Best in Raval

New & Modern Apartment

First, let me clarify: this rental is actually located in Sant Antoni, only a few blocks from Raval and a few minutes from Las Ramblas de Raval (a separate promenade from the Ramblas mentioned above.)

I think it offers a great balance—and a look into the very chic and hip neighborhood of Sant Antoni.

Think of it like the perfect landing pad to explore Ciutat Vella all while staying slightly outside its bounds. You’ll notice the streets are wider and easier to navigate. Oh, and you’re super close to Joaquin Costa, one of the coolest streets in Raval.

Book here

Authentic Barcelona Retreat

Now onto my second shared Airbnb. This location puts you in the heart of Raval—near the Ramblas, Mercat de la Boqueria, and my favorite library, Biblioteca de Catalunya. (No need to read—just go check it out, it’s stunning.)

The host Zoe has gone to great lengths to make the stay comfortable for guests. Just make sure you’re okay with sharing space with a very friendly pup.

Book here

Best in Barceloneta

Apartment 50m from the Sea

If you’re heading to Barcelona with hopes of soaking up the sun on the beach, then this is a top option. To be fair, every single rental in Barceloneta is close to the sea. The neighborhood is a narrow peninsula—it’s hard to lose sight of the sea.

Just keep in mind that like almost all rentals in Barceloneta, this one is very compact. That being said, you’ll have all the basics you need for a great stay. Plus, host Naira has great reviews from recent guests.

Book here

Barceloneta Beach & Sight Apartment

It’s tastefully appointed, bright, and located—you guessed it—only a few streets from the beach. (There’s a parasol included, which you’ll surely need.)

I really love the clean design here, as it helps craft a larger-feeling space. There’s also a sofa bed in the living room in case you want to squeeze in an extra guest.

Just keep in mind that this unit is located on the ground floor. I haven’t seen any complaints from guests in regards to noise, so I’m guessing the windows are pretty heavy-duty.

Book here

The ‘Unknown Trip’: Inside Look at an Ultra-Lux & Sustainable Adventure

Ever planned a trip without knowing where you’re going?

Yeah, me, neither.

But what if I told you that there’s a luxury and sustainable travel company out there that will take you to Who-Knows-Where to embark on the journey of a lifetime?

It might sound a little strange, but the Unknown Trip is extravagant, verifiably sustainable, and shrouded in mystery.

So, if you have vacation days saved up and around $15,000 in your bank account, I know what to do with it.

But—I can’t emphasize this enough—I have no idea where you’re going.

Welcome to Few & Far’s The ‘Unknown Experience’, one of the coolest travel concepts I’ve ever come across.

A leap into the unknown

First off—the Unknown Trip isn’t entirely a crapshoot.

Few & Far is a high-end and eco-friendly adventure brand, meaning you can trust the company wholeheartedly. They focus on safaris and other Mother Nature-centric, slightly rugged escapes. (Again, without skimping on the lux features… or forgetting about green practices.)

The Unknown Trip is geared toward adventurous travelers who are seeking a thrill. The trip can be booked anytime year-round and includes a hand-crafted itinerary that’s based on a short questionnaire.

Using the questionnaire, travelers select the continent that they wish to explore—so the adventure isn’t entirely unknown.

Beyond that, the company asks about the number of travelers, their relationships, preferred continents, countries that travelers want to avoid, activities that interest them, phobias, budgets, dietary preferences, fitness levels, medical conditions, travel dates, and special occasions.

In other words, the trip is carefully crafted.

The Unknown Trip: Opulence meets sustainability

The concept of an unknown travel adventure is intriguing enough.

But there’s another angle here: Few & Far’s dedication to eco-friendly practices and sustainability. Itineraries are handcrafted to minimize impact, while the company partners with responsible brands on every step of the journey.

Few & Far also focuses on something called ‘planet positive’ luxury accommodations. That means that they only partner with companies, tour guides, and other brands that reflect their dedication to sustainability.

That’s important considering the very remote and wild places that Few & Far explores.

These biospheres are some of the most at0risk in terms of pollution and human impact—so protecting them is a necessary practice.

The same is true for the communities that live in these places. They’re the authorities when it comes to living in tandem and in balance with their immediate ecologies. Travel companies can benefit immensely from following their lead and supporting their sustainability initiatives.

Lastly, Few & Far charges a carbon offsetting fee that I think is really important.

The concept of carbon neutrality revolves around emissions and absorption. Travel tends to create a lot of carbon emissions; plane travel is the main culprit. Even hotels and resorts that focus on carbon neutrality might have a hard time offsetting all those flights.

So, to make up for all the carbon emitted, that carbon offsetting fee is directly funneled into initiatives that preserve, maintain, and revitalize our planet’s most important biomes.

Want to learn more? Explore the Unknown Trip and fill out its questionnaire.