How to Stay the Night in Versailles: Airelles Chateau du Versailles

The former palace of Louis XIV, Chateau du Versailles, is one of Europe’s greatest wonders.

Each year, more than 10 million visitors pack into the Palace of Versailles to take a look at how the other half lived. Many spend hours gazing in wonder at a level of opulence that was ridiculous enough to launch a revolution.

In fact, some guests spend between two to three hours exploring the palace interior alone. Those who take a tour of the gardens might spend between four to six hours on the entire excursion—then it’s straight back to Paris.

But not all tours of Versailles are single day trips.

If you’re okay shelling out a cool $2,000, you can actually stay the night on the palace grounds… with a private butler at your beck and call, nonetheless.

Not only will this butler make sure you have a comfortable stay, but they’ll also squire you around the palace on a private excursion—which includes a separate tour of the gardens via golf cart.

For those who want to spend like royalty to be treated like royalty, it’s an unparalleled way to explore the Chateau du Versailles. Here’s the down-low on how to stay the night in Versailles at Airelles Château du Versaille, Le Grand Contrôle.

Meet the hotel: Airelles Château du Versaille, Le Grand Contrôle

View of the exterior (Image courtesy of Airelles Chateau du Versailles)

This five-star hotel is located inside the Palace of Versailles on the grounds of the former Controller of Finance—aka Le Grand Controle.

This palace-within-a-palace was built in 1681 by Jules Hardouin-Mansart, one of King Louis’s preferred architects.

The grounds of Airelles have been painstakingly restored into an opulent hotel. With your stay, you also have access to Airelles’ world-class restaurant and spa.

The restaurant, Ducasse, comes from French culinary legend Alain Ducasse. There’s also a spa, Valmont, where you can receive treatments and/or relax in a hammam and sauna.

It’s premium offer after premium offer—but it comes with a price tag. A single day and night at the Airelles cost around $2,000. That’s a golden price tag for this gilded experience.

What comes with the stay?

Baron de Staël-Holstein room (Image courtesy of Airelles Chateau du Versailles)

Despite the extravagant cost, you’ll have plenty to do and see during your stay at Airelles. The hotel puts on experiences for major holidays, with an upcoming Easter event available to guests.

You can also bundle in experiences like a visit to the Royal Opera, falconry lessons, horseback riding, picnics, rides in the Grand Canal, and more.

Some experiences are free, while others come with a cost. The after-hours tours are the most important offer, in my opinion—and they’re free.

The after-hours tour gives you direct access to Versailles Palace after the tourists all go home. Though you’ll share the tour with fellow hotel guests, groups are usually small and intimate.

There’s also a kid’s club for any parents who want to escape for a frivolous jaunt across the rounds, and more involved offers, such as the Day in the Life of Marie-Antoinette tour and the 18^th Century Photo Shoot.

Is it worth the money?

Interior of Palace of Versailles (Image courtesy of Airelles Chateau du Versailles)

This is the $2,000-dollar question—is it worth bucking up for this type of hotel stay, especially for one night?

I’m a pretty frugal traveler, but I absolutely think this is worth the money.

First, because you’re not just staying at a five-star hotel. You’re staying in the most famous historic palace in the world. Also, it’s easily one of the most opulent palaces.

Second, your stay comes with five-star amenities. While the restaurant and spa are note-worthy, I’m thinking about other things—like the private butler who will help you put together the perfect day, and all those cool experiences, from the free after-hours palace tour to the fee-based falconry courses.

(Seriously—imagine launching a falcon off your arm in the Gardens of Versailles. If that doesn’t make you feel things, I don’t know what will.)

Best Surf Schools & Surf Lessons in Oahu for Beginners

Can you imagine going to Hawaii and not experiencing the wonders of surf?

Even if you don’t have hopes of popping up on a surfboard, you’ll bump into dozens of surfers on the hunt for the perfect barrel.

It’s not just a sport or a hobby in Hawaii, but a lifestyle—one that brings surfers into the gorgeous waters surrounding the islands daily.

In places like Oahu, surfing is a way to be active and connect with nature. While the island is home to professional surfers and some of the biggest waves in the world, you can find calmer waters that are ideal for learning.

As an added bonus, some of those pro, semi-pro, and talented surfers milling around the island have helped set up fantastic surf schools. Some even offer private lessons.

That means one thing for your next Oahu adventure: it’s surf’s up time.

Regardless of how much experience you have surfing and being in the water, you can find a surf school and lesson that’s just your speed. First, I’m counting down five of the best surf schools in Oahu, and then rounding off the list with a few highly rated surf lessons and experiences.

(Interested in surfing elsewhere? Explore the best beaches in Florida for surfing and how to find the best surf beaches in Portugal.)

Best surf schools in Oahu

Surf HNL Ala Moana

Ala Moana Beach

This family-friendly surf school makes it easy for kids and adults of all ages (and comfort levels in the water) to get out on the surf.

If you’re traveling with little ones, know that Surf HNL is usually a top pick for parents thanks to the school’s attentive and upbeat staff. Plus, all staff are also lifeguard trained, meaning you can get in the water feeling entirely secure in the experience.

Alternatively, if you can’t be coaxed onto a surfboard, Surf HNL can help you get out on the water in other ways, including stand-up paddleboarding (called SUP).

Ohana Surf Project

Waikiki Beach Marriot Resort

Beginners are welcome at Ohana Surf Project—along with more experienced surfers. If you’re ready to level up your surf game, Ohana Surf Project will craft a personalized curriculum to get you where you want to be.

If you’re heading to Oahu with travelers who have different levels of experience, everyone can find what they need here.

Ohana Surf Project also offers bodyboarding classes and paddleboarding excursions. If your knees creak just at the idea of popping up on a board, consider those bodyboarding classes.

Aloha Beach Services

Waikiki Beach

Aloha Beach Services is the oldest beach business in town, having launched its first beach activities back in 1959.

Today, you can take advantage of that experience for top-notch surfing, SUP, and even outrigger canoe adventures. Personally, I’d go for the outrigger canoe lessons after re-learning how to surf.

That’s the key here: Aloha Beach Services has something for everyone. Along with the three options listed above, you can also rent umbrellas, beach chairs, bodyboards, and more.

So, if you’re heading to the beach with a multi-generational group that wants different beach experiences, go with Aloha Beach Services.

Ty Gurney Surf School

Waikiki Beach

Similar to Ohana Surf Project, Ty Gurney Surf School specializes in meeting you where you’re at in terms of surf experience. If you have a few successful surf trips under your belt, you can take your skills to the next level with the help of experienced surfers.

But that’s not all. Ty Gurney Surf School also offers a surf safari island tour. The island tour takes you to different beaches around Oahu, with half-day and full-day options.

What I love about the offer is that you can bring along observers (aka non-surfing guests)—and they’ll probably have just as much fun as those surfing.

Uncle Bryan’s Sunset Suratt Surf Academy

North Shore

If you’re looking to get out of Waikiki to enjoy surfing, head to the North Shore to Uncle Bryan’s. Along with a range of specialized surf lessons, you can also book parties and family events. You can also explore the coastlines via SUP—aka stand-up paddle boarding.

Uniquely, Uncle Bryan’s comes with a stand-up guarantee. That means that when you book a lesson with one of their instructors, you’re guaranteed to improve enough to pop up on the board.

That’s a pretty sterling promise for anyone who’s passionate about learning how to surf.

Best surfing lessons from tour providers in Oahu

Photo courtesy of Open Group Surfing Lesson in Waikiki, below (TripAdvisor)

Explore some of the highest-rated surf lessons in Oahu from Viator and TripAdvisor.

Private Surfing Lessons in Waikiki (Viator)

Family Surfing Lesson with Waikiki Courtesy Shuttle (Viator)

Surf Lessons on the North Shore of Oahu (Viator)

Surf lessons for beginners in Waikiki (TripAdvisor)

Open Group Surfing Lesson in Waikiki (TripAdvisor)

Group Surf Lesson in the Heart of Waikiki (TripAdvisor)

6 No-Fuss Cities for Bachelor Parties (US Only)

Bachelor parties have changed drastically over the last two decades.

Once upon a time, men gathered to celebrate the groom by heading out on a night of (wild) fun.

Whether spending big at the nearest gentleman’s club, sticking to a beloved local dive bar, or heading to a friend’s garage with a portable poker table, the focus was on drinking, partying, and saying adieu to single life with the guys.

To be fair, that setup hasn’t totally changed. (If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.)

But just like bachelorette parties have gotten longer and more ornate, so have bachelor parties. It’s not just about getting the groom drunk for a night—it’s about bringing the group together for a quality adventure.

From cooking steaks over a fire to sampling whiskey to hitting a big club, the modern bachelor party runs a pretty big gamut. (Of course, getting the groom tipsy is still a top priority.)

If you’re planning a multi-day or weekend-long bachelor party, you might be looking for a few ideas. Get started with the suggestions for the best cities for bachelor parties, categorized based on the type of group you’re bringing with you.

Top cities for bachelor parties based on group type

A little bit of everything: San Diego
Party central: Chicago
Out in the wild: Lake Tahoe
Budget adventures: Atlanta
Top beach destination: Miami
Cold weather pick: Denver

Top cities for bachelor parties

A little bit of everything: San Diego

Can’t decide what kind of vibe you want at your bachelor party? Head to San Diego—you’ll get a little bit of everything.

The ocean stays warm year-round, giving you beach access. San Diego is also home to a huge number of independent breweries, meaning you and your gang will have plenty of IPAs and Pilsners to sample.

If you’re on the hunt for a great party, you can reserve tables at the city’s biggest clubs for bottle service. Or if taking it easy is your thing, head to one of San Diego’s swankier lounges and clubs.

Find rentals, hotels, and things to do in San Diego.

Party central: Chicago

The US isn’t short on party destinations that turn into bachelor playgrounds. While most bachelor groups head to Miami or Las Vegas, Chicago should also be on your radar.

This city knows how to drink, and its clubs and bars are the best in the Midwest by a long shot. If you want to party all night (and then some), Chicago has a pretty endless scene for you to explore.

And don’t forget about sports fun. With two MLB teams and all the other major leagues represented, it’s not hard to catch a few seats to a big game.

Find rentals, hotels, and things to do in Chicago.

Out in the wild: Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe has something special in store no matter the time of year. If your bachelor party group likes to get out into nature, look no further.

From water sports and hiking in summer to winter sports galore when the snow comes, Lake Tahoe is great choice no matter the season. But you won’t be sidelined with Mother Nature.

Lake Tahoe is an ideal spot for your group to drop off the map in a luxury rental, then head into town (or out into the wilderness) at your leisure. Just watch out for all-nighters—most towns around Lake Tahoe have strict noise policies.

Find rentals, hotels, and things to do in Lake Tahoe.

Budget adventures: Atlanta

Despite the size and swagger of Atlanta, it’s one of the more affordable metropolitan escapes in the US. Bachelors can expect a well-balanced list of things to do, from eating at some of the South’s top restaurants to spending all night in some of its coolest clubs. Best of all, you won’t be overcharged to have a good time.

On top of Atlanta’s well-rounded list of things to do, you’ll also notice that there’s usually an event or festival happening in or around the city. If you’re looking to bundle in a festival to your bachelor party weekend, take a look at Atlanta’s upcoming soirees.

Find rentals, hotels, and things to do in Atlanta.

Top beach destination: Miami

Miami Beach is a pretty iconic place to ring in a friend’s marriage—and it’s not the only option for sinking your toes into the sand in Miami.

Along with the city’s well-known beaches, you’ve got access to Fort Lauderdale’s quieter spots a short drive away.

But there’s a catch. On one hand, Miami has a lot more than beaches to offer with some of the country’s most exciting clubs. On the other hand, Miami is a hugely popular destination—and its prices rise more and more each year. Budget travelers beware.

Find rentals, hotels, and things to do in Miami.

Cold weather pick: Denver

The Mile High City packs a punch for bachelor party weekends. Similar to Lake Tahoe, you’ll have plenty of outdoor activities at your fingertips no matter what time of year you go.

But if you’re planning a winter bachelor party weekend, consider Denver. It’s more cost-effective than most other winter sports spots and gives you access to a handful of great skiing and snowboarding locations, from Winter Park to Breckenridge to Vail.

If you want a more budget-friendly spot, head to Loveland. Then when you head back into town, enjoy a cold brew at one of Denver’s many independent breweries.

Find rentals, hotels, and things to do in Denver.

The Oldest & Most Delicious Creole Restaurants in New Orleans

Though the focus is often on boozy drinks and great jazz, NOLA is also a culinary powerhouse.

The city is home to classic Cajun, Creole, and Southern cooking—and its restaurants are some of the oldest in the country. In fact, two Creole restaurants listed below rank in the top three for the oldest continually run establishments in the United States.

Cooking is a big deal, in other words, if not a NOLA specialty. Creole and Cajun dishes alike are highly celebrated.

Creole traditions come from a blend of the city’s urban residents, from Spanish and French colonial staples to West African and Indigenous influences.

Cajun, by contrast, is a more rural style of cooking that comes from French settlers who came down from Canada, known as Acadians. (They speak Cajun, a descendant of French.)

You’ll notice that many Creole restaurants feature Cajun dishes on their menus—but if you want to dig into the city’s most famous dishes, you’ll be munching on Creole favorites like turtle soup and shrimp Clemenceau.

And where should you eat Crescent City’s most famous dishes? At its most famous legacy Creole restaurants.

Here, I’m counting down the oldest Creole restaurants in New Orleans where you can eat dishes that come with a side of history.

Best Creole restaurants in New Orleans—from oldest to newest

Antoine’s (Est. 1840)

Nearing its 200^th anniversary, Antoine’s isn’t just a New Orleans staple—it’s part of US history as one of the oldest family-run restaurants still in business.

Its unique atmosphere and top-tier service have helped keep its doors open, but the true star is its Creole menu. From shrimp remoulade to chicken Rochambeau to its special twist on bread pudding, you can sample some of the most famous Creole dishes in the country.

Tujague’s (Est. 1856)

Tujague’s flies under the radar compared to other Creole restaurants in New Orleans, despite the fact that it has been open for almost as long as Antoine’s.

You’ll find unique offers on its menu, including its famous boiled brisket, which has been its signature dish for over 100 years. And don’t forget about the grasshopper cocktail, which was invented on the grounds.

*Tujague’s restaurant changed locales in 2020, so you might notice that the interior doesn’t feel too dated. But have no fear—its chefs are serving up the same beloved dishes.

Commander’s Palace (Est. 1893)

If you’ve been to New Orleans before, you’ve likely eaten at Commander’s Palace or recognized its bright blue exterior.

Commander’s Palace has been putting out some of the city’s most famous Creole dishes for well over a century, including turtle soup and bread pudding souffle with whiskey sauce. Step into the past at Commander’s Palace—you’ll be surprised by how tasty it is.

Cafe Sbisa (Est. 1899)

With a recent facelift from a passionate chef who grew up in the city, Creole staples at Café Sbisa are pushed to the next level. You can expect a master class in Creole dishes like BBQ shrimp, court bouillon, duck a l’orange, and more.

Most ingredients are sourced from local providers, including seafood, which is sourced from a seafood dock that’s managed by the restaurant’s current owners.

Galatoire’s (Est. 1905)

Similar to Commander’s Palace, you’ve probably heard a thing or two about Galatoire’s, which is located in the heart of Bourbon Street. It might be the most well-known of all Creole restaurants in New Orleans.

Despite the hustle and bustle outside, Galatoire’s offers a quaint respite inside. Plus, you can feast on the city’s best Creole dishes, including crab maison, oysters Rockefeller, seafood okra gumbo, and more.

Arnaud’s (Est. 1918)

You aren’t just getting a taste of Creole cuisine at Arnaud’s—you’re biting into original spinoffs of classic dishes.

The best example is Shrimp Arnaud, which comes in a house special remoulade sauce, or Oysters Bienville, which is an oyster dish topped with shrimp. Foodies won’t know where to start on this menu.

Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard (Est. 1920)

Serving up Creole staples, Broussard’s is a historic and upscale dining spot that offers a more opulent take on classic bites. From duck, alligator, and sausage gumbo to classic Creole turtle soup, you’ll find a well-balanced menu… at a slightly higher price point.

Dooky Chase Restaurant (Est. 1941)

This well-known restaurant was one of my top picks for best places to grab some fried chicken in New Orleans—but it’s just as well known for its Creole specialties.

Simple dishes like red beans and rice come alive at Dooky Chase, along with finer dining picks like shrimp Clemenceau and stuffed shrimp. Lastly, and most importantly, don’t miss out on the gumbo.

Explore Paris on Foot: Best Pedestrian-Only, Car-Free Streets

Experiencing Paris on foot isn’t for the faint of heart.

Many city streets are winding and uneven, with narrow sidewalks. On top of that, crowds and traffic can make a pleasant stroll feel more like a hike through an industrial wasteland.

On top of the lackluster infrastructure and hustle, Paris is also massive, stretching over 42 square miles and home to 20 unique arrondissements.

In short: you aren’t advised to tackle the city as a pedestrian, even if you prefer to get around on foot.

That being said, the City of Love is undergoing a bit of a green revolution. As with other cities around the world, locals have been pushing for more pedestrian-only streets.

The battle has been long, but successful—especially in Paris, which recently voted to make 500 streets open to foot traffic only. Though that mission will take a few years to be fully realized, visitors heading to Paris can (and should) enjoy the pedestrian-only streets that already exist.

Here’s how to explore Paris on foot—while avoiding all those honking cars and nauseating exhaust fumes. Keep in mind that some streets are only car-free during certain timeframes, which I’ve listed below.

Also, rue means street in French. Alright, allons-y!

Best pedestrian streets to explore Paris on foot

Rue Montorgueil

The permanent market street of Rue Montorgueil is lined with shops, cafes, bakeries, restaurants, fish stores, flower shops, and more. Fans of fine art might recognize the name from Claude Monet’s famous painting Rue Montorgueil, Paris, Festival of June 30, 1878.

Over a century later, the street remains a hotspot for shoppers and walkers alike.

Cour Saint-Emilion/Bercy Village

PARIS, FRANCE – JUNE 12: An installation created by Portuguese artist Patricia Cunha composed of multicolored balloons floating above the Cour St Emilion is displayed on June 12, 2019 in Paris, France. (Photo by Chesnot/Getty Images)

Above the metro station, you’ll find a gorgeous courtyard that marks the entrance to Bercy Village. Formerly an area used for storing wine, it’s now used as a popular dining area for those headed onward to Musée des Arts Forains.

Just make sure you come hungry and have plenty of time to spend—you’ll be following your nose from one delicious treat to the next when exploring Paris on foot.

Rue Daguerre

This lively street market is known as being one of Paris’s most colorful shopping areas—but there’s a lot more than what meets the eye.

Rue Daguerre is a melting pot where immigrants from around the country and beyond meet tete-a-tete to eat, shop, and listen to music. Artists have been drawn to the area for years, along with well-to-do businesspeople, backpackers, and more come to eat well and be merry.

Rue de la Huchette

Nestled in the Latin Quarter, Rue de la Huchette is one of the oldest streets in Paris—which you might be able to intuit based on its location.

Rue de la Huchette sits between Boulevard Saint-Michel and Notre-Dame. You can find late-night eats, souvenir shops, eateries, wineries, and more here. Just bring a little bit of hand sanitizer with you—Rue de la Huchette has been dubbed ‘bacteria alley’.

Avenue de Champs-Elysees: first Sunday of the month

Paris- July 6,2017: People walking on the famous French boulevard Champs Elysees closed for car traffic. Each first Sunday of the month The Boulevard is closed for car traffic. (Getty)

If you’ve spent time in Paris before, you might already be familiar with the popular streets listed above—but don’t forget that the city is also seeking to pedestrianize its grandest avenues.

The Avenue de Champs-Elysees is a car-free haven every first Sunday of the month and has been for nearly a decade. It’s one of the best places to experience Paris on foot.

If you’re a true Paris-file, I highly recommend scheduling your next trip around the first Sunday. There’s nothing quite like joining hundreds of Parisians and visitors for a relaxing afternoon jaunt along one of the world’s most famous streets.

Want a Whimsical, Small-Town Escape? Go to Baraboo, Wisconsin

Wisconsin is known for cold winters and colder beers.

It’s home to hardcore NFL fans (known lovingly as Cheeseheads), delicious dairy products, and major breweries from Pabst to Miller.

Wisconsin is also home to some of the Midwest’s most sneakily gorgeous landscapes, from the Wisconsin Dells and Door Country.

Quaint escapes dot the state’s quietest byways—and Baraboo might be one of the most charming small towns in reach of a big city (Madison).

Though it’s mostly known for its affiliation with the Ringling Brothers, aka the Greatest Show on Earth, the circus acts are far from the only reason to show up and stay a few days.

Ready to uncover another hidden gem in Wisconsin? Go to Baraboo, less than 50 miles from Madison. Here’s what to do when you get there.

5 things to do in Baraboo

Enjoy Devil’s Lake State Park

Afternoon sunshine reflected on Devil’s Lake including blue sky, green trees and autumn foliage (Getty)

Only a short drive from Baraboo is Devil’s Lake State Park. The sweeping views take you straight into nature (with a few amenities available, like public restrooms).

Park your car, then head out on one of the clearly marked hiking trails. The most popular choice is a loop hike that takes you around the lake. Just wear comfortable hiking shoes—some inclines can be a little rocky, especially as you head up the bluffs.

Some visitors recommend arriving early to grab parking, but I’m guessing that depends on when you’re visiting and during what season. Devil’s Lake State Park is most popular during the warm months and on the weekends.

Don’t forget about Parfrey’s Glen, either

Glens are narrow valleys—similar to gorges, but smaller and less extreme. Parfrey’s Glen is a gorgeous hike that takes you through a waterway.

You traverse water and rocks as you weave below the forest in a canyon-like geological formation. The hike only takes around an hour, but make sure to wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet.

If you’re into more difficult hikes, you might find Parfrey’s Glen a bit underwhelming. However, if you enjoy unique and casual hikes that take you off traditional dirt trails, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the experience.

Learn about local circus royalty in Baraboo

Circus World Museum (Courtesy of TripAdvisor)

If you’ve heard of Baraboo before, it’s likely in relation to the town’s Ringling Brothers legacy. Baraboo was once the headquarters of the Ringling Brothers Circus. The town has worked hard to preserve and showcase its circus-related history, including the Al. Ringling Theatre and his former home.

You can also explore the Circus World Museum, which is easily one of the state’s coolest specialty museums. There, you’ll learn about Baraboo’s role as the winter home of the world-famous Ringling Brothers.

Soak up all the charm on Main Street

Because Baraboo has worked for decades to preserve its Ringling Brothers history, its main street is a well-developed who’s-who of homely mom-and-pop shops.

Even its hotel game is effortlessly charming, with spots like the WilloWood Inn ready to welcome you with open arms before you head down to the Little Village Café or the Log Cabin Family Restaurant for a bite to eat.

You can spend close to three hours milling around Baraboo’s quaint downtown shops, enjoying wine and paint classes, shopping for antiques, and more. When you’ve had enough city-slicking, head back out of town for a visit to Ski Hi Fruit Farm where you can pick apples or nosh into baked apple pie.

How to booze your way around Baraboo

Barrels in the distillery at Driftless Glen (Courtesy of TripAdvisor)

You’ve got two great options when it comes to boozing in Baraboo: Baraboo Bluff Winery for fans of tastings and picnics and Driftless Glen to sample house-distilled whiskey.

The winery offers great views overlooking the area. You can bring your own food for a picnic, and then enjoy the wine tasting, which is highly affordable. On the other hand, Driftless Glen is a popular American restaurant where you can sample an elevated cocktail menu that features home-distilled spirits.