11 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Booked An Amtrak Sleeper Car | Our Latest Guide

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My earliest memory of a passenger train is from back in the 1970s before the permanent press was common. My mother used to hire out our ironing. We crossed a train track to pick up the clothes and we usually got stuck there. I was fascinated by watching the slow-moving freight trains chug by, my mom probably less so.

One day, I saw a different sort of train. The guardrail dropped, and a gleaming, silver train whizzed by so fast it appeared blurry. The guardrail raised and we rolled over the track.

My mother explained it was an Amtrak passenger train. She told me about sleeper compartments and dining cars. Five-year-old me was intrigued. I told myself I would ride a train like that someday.

Someday was this spring. I planned to travel from my home in San Antonio to meet a friend to hike in Big Bend National Park. Amtrak’s Texas Eagle and Sunset Limited trains pass through Alpine, a small town 80 miles from the park, so I decided to skip the drive and take the train.

My train left at 2:30 a.m. (ouch!) and I needed to hit the ground running upon arrival, so I booked a sleeper car. I don’t regret my decision, but here are the things I wish I had known before I booked an Amtrak sleeper car. As you read through this, you’ll note the overarching theme of “could have done better research.” Hopefully, my experiences can help you have a smoother, cheaper train adventure.

11 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Booked An Amtrak Sleeper Car

1. How To Get Cheaper Sleeper Car Tickets

I rode the train for the experience and not to save money, although sometimes Amtrak is cheaper than flying or driving.

Before you get too far into the trip-planning process, check out the Deals section on Amtrak’s website. You’ll find a list of current specials that sometimes include enhanced senior or veteran discounts on select routes. The holy grail of Amtrak discounts is the BOGO offer. If you’re flexible, this is the biggest money saver. Sign up for Amtrak’s emails so you don’t miss notifications.

I bought my Amtrak tickets five days before my trip and paid about 40 percent more than I expected. The (expensive) lesson I learned was to buy tickets in advance for the best prices. Two to three weeks out makes a big difference in price.

Pro Tip: Capital One Shopping, Coupon Cabin, and Rakuten may also have coupon codes or discounted Amtrak gift cards.

A roomette on an Amtrak train (Photo Credit: Amtrak)

2. Viewliner Vs. Superliner

The Amtrak system offers two types of sleeper cars, the Superliner and Viewliner. The cars differ quite a bit in size and amenities, so it is important to know which type of car you’ll be in. Viewliner cars are mostly found on the East Coast, while Superliner cars are used in the Western part of the country, for the most part.

Viewliners are single-level while Superliners are double-deckers with stairs leading to the upper level. Therefore, Viewliner rooms are much taller as the Superliner cars need to accommodate two levels. For the same reason, you’ll find more storage space in a Viewliner car.

3. Tips For Using a Public Shower on Amtrak Sleeper Car

If you want to freshen up in the morning or before bedtime, a shower room is located at one end of your car in the Viewliner, or downstairs in the Superliner.

Amtrak provides a bar of soap, washcloths, plus hand and bath towels. But not the shampoo. If you plan to shower, bring a pair of rubber flip-flops to wear in the public shower.

Pro Tip: Remember that trains sway, so if you have balance issues, you may want to sit while showering or wait for when the train is not moving.

4. The Differences Between Roomette And Bedroom

If my trip had been during the daytime or if I could have rested upon arrival (versus driving 80 miles to spend 3 hours hiking), I probably wouldn’t have booked a sleeper car. I had to leave for the train station at 1:30 a.m. and needed to arrive rested, so I booked a Roomette to have a space to sleep on my way to Alpine.

The big difference between a Roomette and a Bedroom on Amtrak is space and price. The Roomette can accommodate 1 or 2 travelers. The Bedroom has more space and a private toilet/shower area and can accommodate 2 to 3 travelers, although I think three would be a tight squeeze. I booked a Roomette and upgraded to a Bedroom.

Sleeper car amenities include blankets, small pillows, bottled water, linens, and access to a coffee station.

Pro Tip: I was comfortable on my short trip, but if you’re spending multiple nights on the train, I recommend keeping room in your carry-on for your own pillow and blanket. I slept in my joggers and socks and the Amtrak blanket didn’t cover the length of my body — it was more like a throw.

By the way, once you get used to the unfamiliar noises and movement, train sleep is awesome sleep.

Breakfast from an Amtrak dining car (Photo Credit: Amtrak)

5. Amtrak’s Dining Car Is Pretty Close To Being Fine Dining

I had breakfast in the dining car and enjoyed views of the West Texas desert and the company of friendly fellow passengers. Meals are included for sleeper car passengers.

There are two dining styles in Amtrak dining cars: Traditional and Flexible. Your attendant will tell you which one is available on your train and assist you with making necessary reservations. They’ll also inform you of meal times via PA system announcement. If you’d like to eat in your compartment, let your attendant know in advance.

Pro Tip: Traditional Dining is chef-prepared meals; Flexible Dining has a smaller menu and consists of hot and cold prepackaged food.

A woman accessing the train's Wi-Fi in an Amtrak bedroom — A passenger accessing the train’s Wi-Fi in an Amtrak bedroom (Photo Credit: Amtrak)

6. Not All Trains Have Wi-Fi

This was a shocker since I’m used to Wi-Fi being universally available. Since I rode during the night, this didn’t hit me as hard as it could have if I’d anticipated being able to work or stream movies.

The stretch of the Texas Eagle I traveled went through rural areas where cell signals are notoriously absent. I had books downloaded, which worked since I spent a lot of time snoozing. While the opportunity to unplug unexpectedly turned out to be nice, I recommend downloading movies or shows before you board the train.

Pro Tip: If you want to embrace unplugged life, stock up on puzzle books or pack a card game.

The author with a carry-on bag
Photo credit: Jill Robbins

7. Free Checked Bags

Amtrak allows two checked bags and two carry-on bags per passenger. If you’re sharing your sleeper car, you’ll want to maximize space. Tripping over suitcases will take your compartment from cozy to cramped. Put what you need for the trip in a carry-on and keep your space clutter-free.

Pro Tip: Passengers in an upstairs compartment (Superliner trains) might not want to drag a big suitcase up the narrow stairway, so that’s another reason to take advantage of free checked bags.

Amtrak passengers enjoying a seat upgrade (Photo Credit: Amtrak)

8. Amtrak’s BidUp Service

Passengers can use Amtrak’s BidUp to upgrade their seats. I booked a Roomette and used BidUp to upgrade to a Bedroom. Passengers will see the option to BidUp upon booking.

BidUp will give you an idea of what amount you should bid. If your bid is too low, you probably won’t be competitive, although you have no visibility of how many passengers are bidding. BidUp is a game of chance, although not gambling. If your upgrade bid isn’t accepted, you won’t be charged.

I did a medium-high bid to upgrade from a Roomette to a Bedroom and ended up getting the upgrade. This afforded me more space and more money. I received the notice I’d been upgraded two days before my departure.

If you’re a first-timer, I recommend investing the time to research BidUp and read reviews before bidding. Research the price difference between what you already paid and the price of the accommodation you’re bidding on. I’m the perfect example of someone pushing buttons without doing adequate research. I upgraded with minimal savings. I’ll never know if I could have been successful with a lower bid and overspent on space I didn’t need!

9. No Locking Your Compartment From The Outside

I felt very safe going to sleep on the train. My door locked from the inside and my bedroom had curtains so no one could see inside.

When I left to visit the observation deck and dining car, though, I discovered there was no way to secure my room from the outside. I carried my wallet and phone on my person but I took a chance and left my backpack with my laptop and other electronics concealed in my compartment. Everything was fine, but in retrospect, I recommend using an abundance of caution.

10. Tipping On Amtrak

You’ll want to tip your attendant and your dining room servers. Your sleeper car attendant will alert you to stops and mealtimes and assist you with converting your seats into sleeping berths for the evening. They also provide fresh towels, bottled water, and other assistance upon request.

Your food (and one cocktail at dinner) are included in your ticket, but definitely take cash for tips. I recommend tipping the restaurant server per meal and tipping the stateroom attendant per day or at the end of the trip.

Passengers boarding an Amtrak train **(Photo Credit: Amtrak)**

11. Amtrak Accessibility Info

If your sleeper compartment is upstairs, you’ll find the stairs steep and narrow. If you have mobility challenges, this might prove difficult.

Amtrak Public Relations Manager Olivia Irwin says, “In addition to handcarts in a number of Amtrak stations, uniformed Red Caps provide free baggage-handling assistance at many major stations. We are also pleased to provide services to passengers with disabilities and have worked to make our facilities more accessible to customers with disabilities.”

Would I Book An Amtrak Sleeper Car Again?

Yes. There’s something about train travel that adds a little more spice to the act of getting somewhere. That said, although my fellow train travelers were sociable, I found myself wishing for a companion to share my experience with. Since I’m a more informed train traveler now and learned a lot from my own mistakes, I’d plan a future trip around fare specials and embrace a slower travel experience.

FAQs

How Many Amtrak Sleeping Car Room Options Are There?

There are four Amtrak Sleeper Car accommodations available to overnight travelers: the roomette, bedroom, bedroom suite consisting of two adjoining bedrooms, and Accessible bedrooms with ample space for a wheelchair, accessible private toilet, and a sink.

What Amenities Are Included Onboard Amtrak Sleeper Car?

Apart from fresh linen, towel service, and complimentary bottled water, sleeping car travelers are entitled to full breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In addition, you can enjoy Amtrak Metropolitan Lounges located at select stations during your voyage.

Can I Watch Netflix on Amtrak Sleeper Car?

No, you can’t. Amtrak is working on improving its wireless connection as we speak, but for now, its WiFi does not support actions like streaming music, streaming video, or downloading large files. Hopefully, the scenery outside your window will make up for it.

How Do I Book an Amtrak Sleeper Car?

Easy. Go to the Amtrak website, find your destination, and check to see if it has a sleeper because not all trains do. if it does, you can book it directly online using a credit card. You can also go to any station with an AMTRAK ticket office and book it there.

If I Buy a Sleeper Car Room on Amtrek, Should I Expect a Roommate?

No. Unless you booked the room with another passenger on purpose, you will have a private room to yourself. They sell the rooms, not the bunks. Your private room is all yours.

All the Light We Cannot See in St Malo France | Guide to a Memorable Stay

Saint-Malo is a city on the French Brittany coast, famed for once being the home of the corsairs and its enormous tidal range. The city has a walled old part called Intra Muros, within the walls, which is crammed full of historical sights and atmospheric lanes.

Set mostly within the ramparts of this old city, the Pulitzer Prize-winning book All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr takes full advantage of a locale where times seem to have stood still. Everything in the book comes alive: Marie-Laure’s story, the affection of two teenagers during World War II, the French Resistance, allied forces… everything…

The book’s story takes place during World War II and tells the tale of a young, blind French girl called Marie-Laure, who escaped Paris with her father to shelter in Saint-Malo, and a German boy of similar age called Werner, whose just-as-haunting experiences of the World War II are set against those of the girl.

As the story is told from the perspective of a blind person, the descriptions of the places are even more important, and the entire walled city of Saint-Malo is brought to life superbly by the author, so much so that even if you haven’t visited, you feel that you know your way around.

Visiting, though, is even better: You can follow in Marie-Laure’s footsteps and see the sights she experienced through touch, sound, smell, and even taste.

To prepare, read, or re-read the book so that it is fresh in your mind as you step through the fortified gates and back in time in Saint-Malo. If you are still reading, I will try not to give too much away as I share these special Saint-Malo sites.

All the Light We Cannot See in St Malo France – Guide to a Memorable Visit

4 Rue Vauborel

This is the address of the house in which Marie-Laure and her father seek shelter with Marie-Laure’s reclusive great-uncle Etienne LeBlanc and his housekeeper Madame Manec in All the Light We Cannot See. Six floors tall with an all-important attic, it should be easy to find. On the northwestern end of the walled city, close to the Bastion Saint-Philipe and the long path out to the lighthouse Phare Mole des Noires, lies the narrow Rue Vauborel. Alas, while the house number exists, the exact house is very much in the author’s imagination. But you can certainly see where he got his inspiration; the tall buildings are unique and typical of Saint-Malo’s Intra Muros.

Pro Tip: Did you know that in medieval times, the wealthiest citizens lived in the heart of walled Saint-Malo, whereas today everybody wants a sea-view home?

The Poterne D'Estrees near 4 Rue Vauborel. — Google Maps

Entrance To The Beach

Steps away from Rue Vauborel lies the Poterne D’Estrees, the gate that leads from the road through the ramparts to the beach. Madame Manec shows Marie-Laure the way and Marie-Laure experiences the ocean, the coast, the roar of the waves, and the smell of the sea for the first time. She touch-explores the tidal pools and collects shells, which her Uncle Etienne teaches her more about.

In the chapter entitled “The Rounds,” Marie-Laure’s way from the house to the beach reads like this: “Twenty-two paces to the intersection with the Rue d’Estrees. Forty more to the little gate. Nine steps down and she’s on the sand and the twenty thousand sounds of the ocean engulf her.”

Pro Tip: The beach is a lovely place for sunset.

View of the Isle of Grand Be. — Google Maps

The Island Of Grand Be

Whenever Marie-Laure and Madame Manec go to the beach, they sit close to the Island of Grand Be, one of two tidal islands that are exposed and accessible at low tide. Grand Be houses the tomb of Saint-Malo-born writer Francois-Auguste-Rene de Chateaubriand.

Pro Tip: Do walk out to the island at low tide, but make sure you return in good time as the tidal range here is nearly 40 feet, and the water comes in fast.

Fort National On The Island Of Petit Be

While you are exploring the two tidal islands at low tide, arrange a tour of the Fort National, which was, in the book and in real life, a prison under German occupation. Reportedly, in August 1944, 380 locals were locked up by the Germans, without food, for six days. You can only enter as part of a tour, and the history lesson ties in nicely with your retracing of Marie-Laure’s steps through this French town.

Pro Tip: Plan your visit such that it coincides with low tide.

Cathedral Of Saint-Malo

The chapter entitled “In the Attic” begins, “For all of Marie-Laure’s four years in Saint-Malo, the bells at St. Vincent’s have marked the hours. But now the bells have ceased.” The Cathedral of Saint-Malo in the Parish of Saint Vincent within Intra Muros, is in fact, the church of St. Vincent. Dating back to the 1100s, the steeple of the church was bombed and damaged in WWII, quieting the bells.

Pro Tip: Inside the cathedral, you can find the tomb of local Jacques Cartier, who “discovered” Canada.

The Locked Grotto

This secret cave full of snails, set right in the ramparts (and whose key Marie-Laure was entrusted with by Crazy Hubert Bazin), really is quite a magical place. Difficult to find, it truly is a hidden grotto. Just behind the current Hotel Les Chiens du Guet, which translates as Hotel The Watchdogs, next to a larger red door, lies the small entrance to the grotto, locked by a metal gate.

The Bastion de la Hollande was built in the late 1600s in the same spot and was guarded by 24 English Mastiffs, who were let loose in the old town each night and whose kennel was in the grotto.

Pro Tip: Go up from this spot to the ramparts to read the historical marker and see the canons left over from the Bastion.

The place where the fictional Bakery would have been. — Google Maps

The Bakery

“Twenty-two paces down the Rue Vauborel. Then right for sixteen storm drains. Turn left on the rue Robert Surcouf. Nine more drains to the bakery.“ Sounds straightforward, but in the real Saint-Malo, it is not that easy. Trying to find the bakery that plays such an important role in All the Light We Cannot See is impossible without a house number or an actual boulangerie still in its place. It could have been the place that is now a piercing parlor, or where the pizzeria now is. That’s fiction for you.

Pro Tip: Do not fret for too long; just around the corner on Rue Broussais lies the quirky Cargo Culte, a cafe cum antiques shop, a perfect place to stop for a lunch and a coffee before heading onward.

Place Chateaubriand

Saint-Malo’s largest square, right at the main entrance to the walled city, is mentioned regularly throughout the book, be it when Marie-Laure and her father arrive, when they sit and watch the Germans drive in, as the place where the posters calling for the surrender of all firearms are displayed on the ancient trees, or as part of the daily route Madame Manec takes around the neighborhood.

The square is perfect for people-watching and is incredibly impressive, with the Chateau de Saint-Malo towering over it and the pretty Hotel Chateaubriand to the side. Alas, it is a parking lot as well, but you can simply imagine the scene from the book’s chapter “Etienne:” “Sunlight flashes from the hood ornaments and chrome fittings as the little procession grinds to a stop on the ringed gravel drive in front of the soaring lichen-streaked walls of the Chateau de Saint-Malo.”

Pro Tip: Climb up to the top of the tower in the castle for superb views across the roofs.

The Hotel Porte St Pierre in Saint-Malo. — Google Maps

The Hotel Of Bees

Werner had been surviving for four days under the rubble of his hideout, the Hotel of Bees, when he first hears the radio transmission of Marie-Laure, thinking he is delirious. The Hotel of Bees, which was described as having bright-blue shutters and selling ice cream in its cafe, sadly does not exist in Saint-Malo. That said, it was located on Rue de la Crosse, as is the Hotel Porte St Pierre, with its restaurant opposite, selling, among other things, ice cream. So, with a little bit of imagination, this will do nicely.

Pro Tip: The hotel is a simple, low-cost option if you are looking for a place to stay. Ask for a sea-view room on the upper floors, which looks out across the ramparts with unparalleled views of the islands and the ocean.

I hope you enjoy following in the footsteps of Marie-Laure in Saint-Malo, reliving this amazing book in an amazing setting. Spending the night? Here are my recommendations for how to spend a perfect day in Saint-Malo.

Mémorial 39-45

The German garrison in the novel was stationed at the Cité d’Alet, a neighboring peninsula whose 18th-century fort Hitler appropriated into his Atlantic Wall. Today this group of German bunkers is a museum that opens seasonally, called the Mémorial 39-45. From beneath the blockhouse some tunnels extend for nearly a mile although they are completely off-limits.

German-Italian forces were also concentrated on the island of Cézembre before they surrendered after the napalm bombings. Nowadays most of the island remains mostly inaccessible due to the presence of mines.

The Sea

While the main attraction of Saint-Malo firmly remains its walled citadel, throughout the novel, the sea represents a safe place where the characters can escape the harsh realities of World War II and absorb the wonders of nature.

The first thing Werner does when he arrives in Saint-Malo is to run to the sea even though the beach is scattered with mines. On the other hand, when Marie-Laure arrives in Saint-Malo, she begs to go to the sea and finally gets her wish.

It’s no wonder that Saint-Malo seems to be the gem in Brittany’s crown. On sunny days, few places can rival the allure of Saint-Malo’s beaches.

FAQs

Why Is Saint-Malo Important in ‘All the Light We Cannot See’?

The beautiful port city of Saint-Malo, France is essential to the ‘All the Light We Cannot See’ novel as it wouldn’t be the same story without it. This historic seaside town in Brittany is the setting for the 2014 Anthony Doerr’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.

How Much Time Do You Need in Saint-Malo?

You could easily explore most of what the old town has to offer in one full day because Saint Malo is very walkable. A 2 km walk around the ramparts of Saint-Malo is one of the great urban walks of France.

Where to Stay in Saint-Malo?

It is best to stay in Intra Muros or very close to it when visiting Saint-Malo. From a traveler’s point of view at least, it is the most important side of the town and where everything happens.

Which Places in Saint-Malo retained the appearance of Saint-Malo in All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr?

La rue Chateaubriand Street and Hotel Chateaubriand. What we see today in Saint-Malo is a reconstructed town that was planned to be as close to the original as possible. Million tons of rubble were used to rebuild much of the town after World War II.

What Other Cities Are Depicted in Doerr’s ‘All the Light We Cannot See’?

The three main cities in which the novel takes place are Essen, Paris, and Saint-Malopr. They provide an evocative backdrop for the events of the novel that it’s impossible not to want to know these places better.

Grand Canyon North Rim vs South Rim: 10 Key Differences To Have In Mind Before You Visit

At first glance, you wouldn’t think there would be many distinctions between the South Rim and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. After all, they both look down into the massive chasm of the canyon of the Colorado River, they lie just 10 miles apart “as the condor flies,” and they’re both parts of Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park.

But considering that getting from one side to the other involves either a difficult 21- to 24-mile rim-to-rim hike or a 4-to-5-hour drive, the two rims can feel eons apart — both in distance and in the atmosphere.

I’ve visited both rims of the Grand Canyon numerous times and have done both the arduous rim-to-rim hike and the long car drive between the two. Over the years, I have come to love the two rims for their distinguishing characteristics, including the North Rim’s rustic forest atmosphere and opportunities for solitude and the South Rim’s big iconic views and countless tourist amenities.

Here are nine of the major differences between the Grand Canyon’s North and South Rims.

Grand Canyon North Rim vs South Rim: 10 Key Differences To Have In Mind Before You Visit

1. Remoteness

There’s no question that the Grand Canyon South Rim is the most accessible of the park rims. Located just over an hour from the Interstate 40 town of Williams, or about an hour and a half from the mountain town of Flagstaff, the South Rim is an easy day trip from either.

On the other hand, the Grand Canyon North Rim is a lengthy trek from virtually any community — more than three hours from Flagstaff, nearly six hours from Phoenix, and four-and-a-half hours from Las Vegas. And driving between the two Grand Canyon rims is no easy feat either, taking between four and five hours over somewhat remote roads.

Pro Tip: The North Rim can also be accessed from the Utah side and combined with a visit to that state’s spectacular Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. From Kanab, Utah, the Grand Canyon North Rim is about an hour and 40-minute drive away.

2. Seasonal Schedule

Also contributing to the Grand Canyon North Rim’s limited accessibility is its visitation schedule. With an elevation of nearly 8,300 feet, the North Rim’s main road is closed from late October to mid-May each year due to heavy snowfall, and the park amenities are open from May 15 to October 15.

The Grand Canyon South Rim, which is about 1,000 feet lower in elevation, gets some winter snow, but the park is typically open year-round.

3. Climate

Because of the higher elevation at the Grand Canyon North Rim, visitors should expect cool temperatures, even in the summer. High temperatures average in the 70-degree F range in June, July, and August, while May and September are in the 60s, and October is in the 50s. Grand Canyon nights can be chilly all year long, and visitors should remember to bring a jacket and sturdy shoes for the cooler days and evenings.

The Grand Canyon South Rim can be hot in the summer, with average highs in the 80s in June, July, and August, and the 70s in May and September. Winters are cool, with average highs in the 40s and 50s in November, December, January, and February.

Pro Tip: Remember that if you’re heading out on a hike below the rim of the Grand Canyon from either rim, the temperature will rise as you go down. Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the Grand Canyon is at about 2,460 feet elevation, and average highs climb above 100 degrees throughout the summer months.

4. Crowds

The North Rim of the Grand Canyon is known as the quiet side for a reason. Typically, the national park gets about 6 million visitors a year (the total was down considerably only in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic but is now back at its usual number of visitors), and the Grand Canyon’s website notes that most of the visitors see the canyon from their cars at overlooks along the South Rim.

A significantly smaller number of people (estimated to be about 10 percent of the total) see the Grand Canyon from the North Rim — a statistic that has been confirmed by my visits to both rims on the same busy fall weekend when crowds tended to be fairly sparse at Grand Canyon North Rim but heavy on the South Rim.

5. Hotel Availability

If your plan is to stay a night or two in the national park, you will have many more choices in the South Rim. Within the park itself, accommodations range from the historic El Tovar Hotel to more basic lodging in the Yavapai Lodge to camping at the two Grand Canyon park campgrounds. And within minutes of the national park entrance is the town of Tusayan, where a range of chain hotels, such as the Best Western Canyon Squire Inn and the Holiday Inn Express, are available.

At the Grand Canyon North Rim, accommodations are significantly more limited. Within the park, there is only the Grand Canyon Lodge and the North Rim Campground. The nearby towns of Fredonia and Page, Arizona, and Kanab, Utah, also offer lodging within a couple of hours’ drive from Grand Canyon.

Pro Tip: Regardless of the rim, hotels and campgrounds tend to fill up quickly. The Grand Canyon National Park Lodges website reports that lodging reservations are taken up to 13 months in advance. More information is available on the reservation site here.

6. Restaurants

Similar to the hotel scene, dining options are much more abundant at the Grand Canyon South Rim than at the North. Typically, the South Rim offers a range of restaurants for fancy sit-down dinners, cafeteria-style meals, and markets for snacks and conveniences. A list of options is available here.

Many fast-food and restaurant options are also available right outside the Grand Canyon South Rim entrance in Tusayan.

The North Rim offers a more limited range of dining options including the Grand Canyon Lodge Dining Room, the Roughriders Saloon, the Deli in the Pines, and the General Store.

7. Iconic Grand Canyon Views

If you’re looking for the famous views of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River, the South Rim is where you’ll find iconic sights like Mather Point, Grandview, and the Desert View Watchtower. The South Rim is also the place to begin day hikes along the South Kaibab Trail to breathtakingly beautiful spots like Ooh Aah Point, Cedar Ridge, and Skeleton Point.

Of course, the Grand Canyon North Rim offers spectacular views as well, such as Cape Royal and Point Imperial, but they are fewer in number and tend to be less recognizable.

Pro Tip: Be sure to check the availability of the Desert View facilities before heading out to the Grand Canyon.

8. Recreation Variety

While the Grand Canyon North Rim is mostly about scenic drives and long walks or mountain bike rides along trails near the rim, the South Rim offers a range of recreational opportunities.

One of the most popular South Rim activities is to rent a bike and ride the paved Rim Trail (described in this PDF) which follows the edge of the canyon and offers splendid views of the canyon and the Colorado River along the way. There is also the nearby town of Tusayan, where visitors can book a helicopter or airplane ride over the canyon or take in an IMAX movie.

9. Different Vibes

By virtue of their levels of accessibility, the North and South Rims seem to attract travelers with different agendas.

Because the South Rim is easy to get to from Interstate 40, many of its visitors are there for a quick drive-through and a photo opp. In fact, park surveys have shown that the vast majority of visitors to the South Rim spend just a few hours there, driving the scenic road and stopping at a few of the convenient overlooks.

Visitors to the North Rim tend to be more interested in at least a night’s stay, and often longer. I have noticed that people appear to take their time on the North Rim, lounging in the deck chairs at the lodge to watch the sunset or pausing for the views on the Bright Angel Point Trail.

The North Rim also attracts many of the day-tripping rim-to-rim hikers, who are intent on serious rest and relaxation — either before or after their grueling hike across the canyon.

10. Getting Around

Shuttles

The only means of public transportation between the rims besides hiking and driving yourself is the Trans-Canyon Shuttle that runs between the North and South Rims once a day, in each direction.

Within the South Rim, you can ride shuttle buses for free, and cut on fuel costs. The free shuttle buses operate in and around Grand Canyon Village. No tickets are required and bus stops are marked throughout the park by signs.

Meanwhile, for a shuttle from the Grand Canyon Lodge at the North Rim to the North Kaibab trailhead you must pay for the tickets at the Grand Canyon Lodge front desk, and the reservations are required 24 hours in advance.

Buses

When it comes to bus tours within the Grand Canyon National Park, Xanterra conducts Guided Bus Tours that include Sunrise, Sunset, Desert View Drive, and Hermits Rest Road. Tours on wheelchair-accessible coaches are available all year round.

Helicopters

Lastly, if you are at the South Rim already, a helicopter tour will add an extra thrill to your experience. You’ll be able to see parts of the Grand Canyon that you cannot observe from the South Rim viewpoints, and learn interesting insight from your pilot.

An overlook view in South Rim. — Cindy Barks

How To Choose

Overall, if you want the total Grand Canyon package, it’s best to visit both rims. But if you have to choose between the two, I recommend that first-time visitors focus on the South Rim for the numerous overlooks and variety of experiences. Those who are on a repeat visit to the area should definitely check out the North Rim for its secluded feel and its opportunity for a classic national park visit. Also, if you’re visiting Arizona between October 15 and May 15, your only option is the South Rim; the North Rim closes down each year for the cold weather months.

Pro Tip

Along with the North and South Rims of Grand Canyon National Park, there is also a third area called the West Rim of the Grand Canyon. Like the North Rim, the Grand Canyon West Rim scores high on the remoteness scale, being at least two hours away from the nearest major city and four hours (241 miles) from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

This rim’s most popular feature is the Grand Canyon Skyway. For more information on whether the trip to the Grand Canyon Skywalk is worth it, check out my article Is The Grand Canyon Skywalk Worth The Trip? Note that the West Rim is not a part of the Grand Canyon but is part of a Hualapai sovereign nation.

FAQs

Why Is the Grand Canyon’s North Rim Colder Than the South Rim?

The North Rim of the Grand Canyon experiences cooler temperatures because it is located at a higher elevation than the South Rim, sitting on an average elevation of nearly nine thousand feet above sea level.

Which Rim of the Grand Canyon Should I Visit First, North or South?

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is mostly chosen by first-time visitors to the area not only for its beautiful views but also for numerous visitor services and family activities. The South Rim is open year-round.

Can I Visit Both the Grand Canyon South Rim and the North Rim in One Trip?

Yes, but It takes time, planning, and effort to visit both Grand Canyon rims in one go. The drive between the park’s South Rim Village and the North Rim Village is over two hundred miles and takes about four and a half hours to drive.

What Time Are All Facilities on Both the South and North Rim of the Grand Canyon Open For Business?

Summer is peak season when all the park’s facilities on both the South and North Rim are open for business. However, be prepared for hordes of tourists and very limited lodging availability.

Is the North Rim the Least Visited Part of the Grand Canyon?

Yes, only 10% of Grand Canyon visitors make the long spectacular drive to reach this side of the Big Ditch. Those who do are rewarded with lush forests and green meadows of this hidden gem.

11 Reasons To Spend Christmas in Munich | This German City Is a Perfect Festive Destination

During the Christmas holiday season, Munich, the capital of Bavaria in the south of Germany, pulls out all the stops. Generally, it’s cold enough to snow, so the roofs of all the fabulous buildings and churches are topped with a glittering fairy-tale cap. In the morning, icicles drip from gutters and tree branches, and ice roses cover windows.

Munich opens her jewelry box and pulls out the best Christmas tree decorations to spread lavishly all over the city on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and throughout the holidays. Nativity scenes, huge stars, angels, and Christmas trees decorate streets and shop windows and everybody can enjoy not one but over 20 Christmas markets in Munich.

The Isar, the river flowing through Munich, sometimes freezes over and turns into an outdoor ice rink, to the delight of ice skaters. Trams are a popular means of transportation in Munich and it operates a special Christmas tram. A venue called Munchner Eiszauber provides ice skating in an open-air arena should the ice of the river or other lakes not be safe and thick enough. There is indoor ice skating available, too.

Christmas in Munich continues with special Christmas dinners in some 5-star hotels and restaurants with performances in theatres and the opera.

Indoors or outdoors, you’ll never forget it’s Christmas if you come to Munich, Germany. The sheer abundance of Munich Christmas markets, other venues, and festive events make Munich the perfect Christmas destination. Merry Christmas from Munich Santa Claus and read on!

Visitors and sales booths at the Christmas market, Munich, Germany — Marienplatz – Christkindlmarkt, Star of the Munich Christmas markets (Photo Credit: FooToo / Shutterstock.com)

11 Reasons To Spend Christmas in Munich | Enjoy the Festive Season

1. Visit The Most Magical Munich Christmas Markets

Marienplatz – Christkindlmarkt

Marienplatz is Munich’s main square in the heart of the city and the location of the biggest and oldest traditional Christmas market in Munich. It was first held in 1310. This year it is scheduled to last from November 22–December 24. Approximately 140 vendor stalls are spread out over this Munich Christmas market with the romantic backdrop of the Gothic-style New Town Hall.

In front of the Christmas market stands a 100-foot-tall huge Christmas tree with the Nativity scene, all decorated with 2,500 lights. The fairy-tale food market stalls sell the local delicacies but also the most beautiful handcrafted decorations, wood carvings, and mouth-blown baubles as well as gallons of mulled wine, gingerbread sweets in all shapes and forms, and Bavarian grilled sausages, hot sauerkraut, and Leberkas. Before the red wine gets to you, find the Christkindl post office where your postcards for loved ones get a special stamp.

Sendlinger Tor

From Marienplatz, you should head down Sendlinger Street to Sendlingertor, one of the three remaining city gates of Munich’s former fortifications. Take a stroll through this Munich Christmas market glowing with lights, look for some more original stalls for gifts, and take a sip of glühwein, spiced wine served hot (to the disappointment of beer lovers, no beer garden in Munich is open during the warmer months).

Rindermarkt

Rindermarkt is a much calmer Christmas market than the crowded and noisy Marienplatz. This Christmas market is more oriented towards locals. Feuerzangenbowle, which is a block of rum-soaked sugar set alight and left to drip into the glühwein, is the specialty here that attracts the crowd as this cannot be found in any other Christmas market in Munich.

Medieval Christmas Market at Wittelsbacher Platz in Munich, Bavaria, Germany. — footageclips / Shutterstock.com

Medieval Munich Christmas Market

Located on Wittelsbacher Platz near Odeonplatz, this is a Christmas market of a different kind. If you love all things Viking or medieval times, this is the event for you. The vendors wear period costumes and sell such things as lambskins, gold jewelry, and handcrafted drinking horns. Food at this German Christmas market is roasted over an open fire and jugglers and knights in shining armor roam the place. Try a fiery drink: Feuerzangenbowle. A rum-soaked sugarloaf is set on fire and slowly melted into a bowl of rum punch.

Weihnachtsdorf in der Residenz Christmas Market

Inspired by the feeling of an alpine village, the second-largest Munich Christmas market in Munich is set up in the courtyard of the Residenz, the majestic royal palace. The stalls are shaped like chalets, the vendors sell exquisite local art, a great many Christmas dolls and angels, and snacks, often based on potatoes. There are puppet shows and music on the central stage.

Pink Christmas Market

This is definitely not your traditional German Christmas market, but a great spectacle and entertainment where everybody is welcome. Located in the heart of Munich’s LGBTQ quarter, Stephansplatz, this event is best visited in the evening to enjoy the full glory of plenty of pink lights and decorations, plus music and performances.

2. Ride The Christmas Tram

Munich is a party town, just think of the world-famous OktoberFest. Whenever an event can be turned into a party, it will, and Christmas is no exception. The Christmas Tram isn’t just a seasonally decorated tram, trundling around the city to see the Christmas lights.

It is indeed a dinner party in tram cars, decorated to match the Christmas spirit with staff in traditional costumes serving you a succulent dinner or buffet of your choice while you tour the most important sights of the city all illuminated with an abundance of lights. Book your tour on the website and party through town.

If you fancy a shorter tour of 35 minutes with mulled wine and gingerbread instead of a dinner party, go to the Marienplatz Christmas market.

Nymphenburger Canal with visitors ice skating on frozen canal. — Michael Kaercher / Shutterstock.com

3. Try Curling At The Nymphenburger Canal

Have you ever done curling before? Here is your chance to join one of the latest winter sports fashions in Munich and in a marvelous place too. As soon as the temperatures drop below freezing point, ice enthusiasts in Munich head to the Nymphenburg Canal.

The Nymphenburg Palais is a beautiful Baroque palace that was the summer residence of the Wittelsbach dynasty. It’s surrounded by a canal which is quite shallow so it freezes easily. Signs are put up to advise when it is safe to step on the ice. Still, you are doing so at your own risk. The canal is a natural rink and curling is a favorite activity. Curling sticks can be rented there, so join the fun and shoot away. There is also ice skating and ice hockey.

4. Ice Skate At Muenchner Eiszauber

Muenchner Eiszauber is a Christmas event in Munich not to be missed. It takes place from November 22, 2021–January 10, 2022, when the Stachus, a huge square in the heart of the city, is turned into an ice skating rink. It’s the largest movable ice arena in Europe. Whether you are a pro or step into ice skates for the first time doesn’t matter, plenty of fun lies ahead and you also do something for your health. Skates are for rent at the site. Use is divided into blocks so there is no overcrowding.

While you glide along in the fresh air, you can admire the decorative lights on the surrounding buildings. Every day, there is another program. If for instance, you turn up in Dirndl or Lederhosen, you get into Wies’n Hits for free. Plenty of food and drink is around, too. The evening is party time, check out the program.

National Theater neo-classical styled building, Munich’s Bayerische Staatsoper. — lowsun / Shutterstock.com

5. Enjoy Christmas Performances In Theatres And Opera

Munich’s Bayerische Staatsoper is a world-famous venue for opera and classical concerts. Treat yourself to an evening in the lavishly decorated opera house and, at Christmas, listen to the OperaBrass concert. Opera and concerts are taken seriously in Bavaria, so dress up.

A typical Christmas ballet is the Nutcracker. It will be performed on several days during the Christmas period in the Prinzregententheatre.

Munich lights up, light installation at the art area, Alte Pinakothek, Munich, Bavaria, Germany. — footageclips / Shutterstock.com

6. Spend A Few Hours In Alte Pinakothek

It can be pretty cold in Munich at Christmas, so it’s a good idea to get out of the cold and icy wind for a few hours by spending them in one of Munich’s best and most prestigious museums, the Alte Pinakothek. The museum is located in easy-to-reach Theresienstrasse. It’s actually three museums, exhibiting works of art reaching from the Middle Ages to Modern Art. You can of course go on your own, but if you prefer explanations from an art expert, you can book a guided tour with Paul.

Pro Tip: Theatinerstrasse, one of Munich’s best shopping streets, is just around the corner. You can combine your museum visit with some serious Christmas shopping, all within walking distance, or if you prefer, a few tram stops.

Inerior of Hofbrauhaus restaurant, filled with dinners. — Hofbrauhaus (Photo Credit: taranchic / Shutterstock.com)

7. Enjoy A Bavarian Christmas Dinner

What would Christmas be without a delicious dinner? Germany has a lot of unique dishes you can try, and you will be spoiled for choice of venue in Munich, so let me tell you about two very different but equally great restaurants depending on the atmosphere you like.

The first is the boisterous, famous Hofbrauhaus, the seat of Bavaria’s oldest brewery. It’s big, and you mostly eat at communal tables, crowded and rather noisy but the food and drink are excellent. Make your reservation early.

If you prefer a more elegant setting, there is a Christmas dinner at the 5-star hotel Bayerischer Hof. You can choose between five restaurants and six bars. If after your meal you feel like a theater performance, you can go to the in-house Boulevard Theater Komoedie and round out the night with a drink at Trader’s Vic. All under one roof.

8. Party At Wintertollwood Festival

Located on Theresienwiese, the legendary venue of the Oktoberfest, Wintertollwood Festival is a Christmas experience of a different kind. This year it lasts from November 24—December 23 and the party vibe is undeniable. The theme is fire and light, reflected in, among other things, a huge firebird sculpture and fire painting. Three tents house stalls that sell strictly sustainable goods. A magical forest, new this year, features a huge tree, decorated with baubles and balloons in Christmas colors. There are art installations and performances, street Christmas carols, and the partying gets underway in the Witches’ Cauldron with live bands, with opening hours until 1 a.m.

Theatinerstrasse, the street to do Christmas shopping. — Theatinerstrasse (Photo Credit: Inka Piegsa-Quischotte)

9. Best Christmas Shopping

If you are looking for some last-minute or special Christmas gifts, Munich is the place to be. There are, of course, the Munich Christmas markets for handcrafted Bavarian items, but there are also shopping streets in Munich where you can find beautiful things for all budgets. Some are pedestrian areas with no tram or bus stops, but a word of caution: they are accessible to bicycles and trams, both silent, so watch out.

One of Munich’s most popular department stores is Galeria Kaufhof, located between Marienplatz and Karlstor. Offering just about anything, it also has lovely decorations. Marienplatz itself and Theatinerstrasse are shopping streets for jewelry, designer clothes, and art. For the biggest selection of books (in several languages), head to Hugendubel, either on the Stachus or Karlsplatz, opposite the Hotel Bayerischer Hof.

10. Himmelswerkstatt and Kasperl Puppet Theater For Kids

The “Himmelswerkstatt” in the festively decorated Ratstrinkstube is a highlight for young visitors to the Christmas market. Starting in December, children between the ages of six and twelve can once again dress up as little angels and make Christmas decorations and other things under expert guidance. Places for the heavenly workshop are limited, so register directly at Kindermuseum Munchen.

On the other hand, the puppet theater with Kasperl is another traditional guest at the Munich Christmas market for the first three Sundays in December. In the town hall courtyard, Nikolaus Zettl performs entertaining stories involving Kasperl, a children’s favorite Punch-like character.

11. Christmas Mulled Wine Festival

The Christmas Mulled Wine Festival transforms Munich into a festive Christmas village, with enchanting aromas of mulled wine filling the air. Held in charming marketplaces, the event invites locals and visitors alike to savor the meticulously crafted mulled wine, fostering a warm and joyous Christmas spirit.

FAQs

Is Munich a Good Place to Spend Christmas?

Certainly, the atmosphere changes radically for Christmas. The typical German Christmas markets take over the squares and the streets in Munich, the streetcars turn public transportation into magic and the snow makes the city center look like somewhere straight out of a fairytale.

Does It Snow in Munich at Christmas?

Yes. It regularly snows in December in Munich. During the Christmas festivities, the city is transformed into a white wonderland, with the famous red rooves covered with a white blanket that glitters in the faint winter sunlight.

What Is the Largest Christmas Market in Munich, Germany?

It’s the Munich Christkindlmarkt in Marienplatz square. This is not only the home of living customs, old crafts, and traditional culinary delights, but also of what is probably Germany’s largest Nativity scene market.

Are Munich Christmas Markets Open on a Sunday?

Yes, the Christmas markets in Munich stay open on Sundays. The city is quieter than on weekdays but the Christmas markets in Munich still attract visitors. Crowds are usually much bigger on weekends, so at least try to get there early. The stalls also offer the best selection to those who get there early.

When Do Munich Christmas Lights Lit Up?

In the weeks leading to Christmas, Munich will be illuminated exceptionally. This year a new lighting concept will create a festive atmosphere in the city center from November 27 to January 7, 2024. Don’t miss the two illuminated Schäffler statues connected by a radiant arch.

TikToker Cooks Garlic Shrimp & Mash During Flight

Imagine you’re on a plane when someone spends an inordinate amount of time in the bathroom. We’ve all been in that situation, asking ourselves: “What are they doing in there?” Well, the answer for social media star Barfly7777 is clear: he’s making garlic shrimp and mashed potatoes.

Barfly7777 is known for cooking gourmet meals inside hotel bathrooms with minimal supplies, but he recently tried his craft onboard a Delta Airlines flight. “Well, I got a terrible idea — it’s a terrible idea — I’m a little nervous,” he said as he introduced his idea. “The stuff I got packed definitely looks like a bomb.”

@barfly7777
With 2 6v batteries wired in series to an immersion beverage heater, one is able to get water scalding hot quickly. Raw shrimp will only need a few minutes. Adding instant mash to the shrimp water adds some extra flavor. Garlic butter makes everything go better. #terribleideawhattime #shrimp #garlicshrimp #mashedpotatoes #flying #bathroomchef #howtocookproperly #barfly7777 #innovation #privatechef #newidea #hack #Splice
♬ FUCK IT – xryce

Then, he proceeded to clear security, grab some puke bags, and enter the bathroom. Once inside, he set up his workstation with a sink full of water, a couple of 6-volt batteries, some wires, and ingredients. In all, he wrote in the caption that the meal, which he called “Mile High Bathroom Garlic Shrimp & Mash,” only took a few minutes.

The 4 Best Places To Get Hot Chocolate In Chicago

It’s no secret that Chicago is a foodie’s paradise. During the 2 years I lived there, it would have been entirely possible for me never to dine at the same place twice. But I did. Come on, it’s hard not to return to the place you had the best slice of pizza ever.

It tracks, then, that Chicago might also be a great place to find those oh-so delicious warm treats, like hot chocolate. As the weather gets frightful this holiday season, check out this list of the best places to warm up with a steaming cup of hot cocoa.

The 4 Best Places To Get Hot Chocolate In Chicago

1. XO Marshmallow Cafe And Wonderland

What’s the most important ingredient in hot chocolate? Why it’s the marshmallows, of course! Enter the XO Marshmallow Cafe, the first of its kind, located in Chicago’s hip Lincoln Park neighborhood.

This is a café dedicated entirely to all things marshmallows. A quick look at the menu gives you hot chocolates to drool over. There’s birthday cake white hot chocolate, salted caramel hot chocolate, and s’mores hot chocolate, just to name a few.

Options to add to your hot chocolate are a variety of specialty marshmallows: There’s funfetti, vanilla, and even cookies-and-cream marshmallows. There’s even classes on how to make marshmallows and how to build your own hot cocoa mix.

Come check out this fun and inviting café and wonderland. Warm up with a steaming cup of hot chocolate piled high with marshmallows and forget that it’s winter in Chicago for a minute.

2. Chique°latte

Maybe you’ve visited this lovely little café in your travels abroad. This pick is coming to you from Europe, with locations in the Netherlands and Luxembourg. And now, they have a shop in Chicago, at Logan Square to be precise.

Chique°latte warns you to “brace yourself for happiness” and that’s just what they aim to do with a drink menu of coffees, teas, and a variety of chocolate flavors originating from over 50 countries. They also serve salads, toast, bowls, and sandwiches.

But you’re here for the hot chocolate! I didn’t forget. With drinks named after famous European artists — like The Van Gogh and The Rembrandt — their hot chocolate concoctions do not disappoint. Topped with all the whipped cream your heart desires and a chocolate-covered donut, or perhaps you prefer a chocolate-filled waffle, the hot chocolate drinks at Chique°latte are as beautiful to admire as they are to devour.

3. Cocoa + Co

Alright, it’s time we discuss the difference between hot chocolate and drinking chocolate, and then you must forgive me (or thank me) for including drinking chocolates on this list. Hot chocolate is what you are probably most familiar with. It is made from a powder; usually a blend of cocoa powder, sugar, and a variety of spices. Then, hot water or milk is added. Drinking chocolate is kind of just like it sounds — you’re drinking actual melted down chocolate mixed into steaming milk. You’re welcome!

Cocoa + Co in Old Town Chicago offers drinking chocolates and you absolutely must try them! They are rich and decadent and make you feel like you’re definitely going to be on the naughty list this year (and you’re not going to care). You can choose from a variety of options like La Parisienne, which has a hint of vanilla, or Mayan Magic, which spices things up with chilies, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

4. Santa Baby Bar

With a name like that, you know it’s going to be fun — and spiked! Come enjoy Chicago’s best pop-up experience this holiday season and sip on drinks with Christmas-themed names like Jingle Juice, Yule Mule, The Grinch, and Tropical Sleigh Ride.

But if hot chocolate is what you’re looking for, Santa Baby Bar has that too! You can try the Mexican Hot Cocoa with Casamigos tequila or the Spiked Peppermint Cocoa spiked with Pinnacle Whipped Cream Vodka and peppermint schnapps. If you’re feeling adventurous, bring a group to this hot spot and go for the Colossal Cocoa. It’s a supersized version of their classic cocoa and serves eight people! This can be spiked for an extra fee.

I haven’t even scratched the surface of all the wonderful places you can stop for a hot chocolate in Chicago. In fact, I’m pretty sure you could spend the whole winter there and never try the same one twice. But if you’re only visiting Chicago for a short trip this winter, these should be your first go-to hot chocolates or drinking chocolates to try.