3 Reasons I’ll Never Go Back to Regular Luggage: Carl Friedrik Carry-On Review

I’m in the middle of a suitcase revolution.

For years, I’ve faithfully stuck to my Muji carry-on. It’s slightly smaller than other models, so it fits in just about every overhead cabin. It’s also deceptively smooth and reliable despite its budget-friendly price tag.

I usually recommend travelers stick to a carry-on over a checked suitcase for reasons like ease of transportation, saving on checked luggage fees, and avoiding the risk of lost luggage.

Still, there are plenty of reasons that you might want a reliable check-in.

If you plan on doing a lot of shopping on vacation, you might want all the spare room you can get. If you’re traveling during winter, it might not be possible to pack all the necessary layers in a carry-on. The same if you have kids with you.

Regardless of why you’re flirting with buying a piece of check-in luggage, I have one piece of advice: it’s worth it to splurge.

Just like I’ve started paying more to fly with legacy airlines over budget competitors, I’ve seen the light when it comes to luxury luggage—and I won’t go back. Here’s why I’m avoiding cheap check-in luggage from here on out thanks to my shiny new Carl Friedrik carry-on suitcase.

[Carl Friedrik provided me with The Check-In in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]

About me, about luxury luggage, about the metrics

Let’s discuss price points first.

When I say luxury luggage, I’m talking about check-in pieces from established, well-respected brands that cost over $500 per piece. While that probably seems exorbitant, many budget luggage brands hit the $300-400 and might go up to $1,000; by contrast, high-fashion brands like Louis Vuitton list their check-ins at $3,500.

So, though I’m discussing high-quality and luxury luggage, the price points are justified.

Specifically, I’m comparing my experience traveling between Barcelona, Spain, and St. Louis, USA with two pieces of checked luggage: Samsonite’s Framelock Max Large Spinner ($237) and Carl Friedrik’s The Check-In ($646).

The Samsonite piece was my own, while The Check-In from Carl Friedrik was gifted in exchange for an honest review. To be blunt, I was a little worried that I’d accept the offer and then be forced to write a subpar review. Instead, the Carl Friedrik suitcase made me feel things. (Good things.)

The experience made me wonder… why haven’t I splurged on luggage sooner?

3 reasons I’m sticking with luxury luggage

Reason #1: The handling experience was smooth—but also rugged-ready

From the outside looking in, the Samsonite and Carl Friedrik products don’t look too different. Samsonite is a trusted luggage brand that’s been around for a century—they know what they’re doing, and I love how accessible Samsonite pieces are.

Samsonite suitcases expand to let you stuff them to the brim, they’re hardy enough to handle a few hits, and they’re usually on sale at an outlet store.

They’re also made from quality materials… but not necessarily high-end materials. By contrast, luxury luggage from Carl Friedrik is made with textiles like vegan leather, aluminum, and German-engineered polycarbonate. Plus, state-of-the-art wheels.

The silent wheel spinners were a surprise hit in that they were actually silent. I’m not joking—I live in the center of Barcelona’s old city with cobbled streets dating back decades.

When heading home from my cab, I was worried that the weight of my Carl Friedrik suitcase would harm the suitcase or compromise those wheels.

Not only did the wheels manage to survive, but they were almost silent even on an ancient cobblestone street. That’s elevated handling at its finest, and its thanks to those high-quality materials.

By contrast, my Samsonite suitcase also made it… but woke up my neighbors on the way.

Reason #2: The Carl Friedrik suitcase keeps everything nice and tight

Let’s move on to the experience of packing. My Samsonite suitcase had standard zipped compartments with a few spare pockets. By contrast, my Carl Friedrik piece had one zipped side and a removable panel to cover the other side.

Neither setup left an overly strong impression on me. (I like to think I’m a very savvy packer.)

Once again, however, I wondered how my Carl Friedrik piece would fare without those expandable side seems. Samsonite’s luggage has a two-inch grace limit so you can stuff your suitcase to the brim after a long vacation—but the Carl Friedrik Check-In doesn’t.

In reality, the packing experience was a lot better without the clumsy two-inch expandable seems. Not only did it make handling the suitcase much easier, but this was the point that I started to realize just how secure the Carl Friedrik Check-In is.

With two TSA-approved locks connecting the bag, there was no awkward seem, just a perfectly zipped check-in suitcase that could manage its weight well.

And let me tell you, both the Samsonite and Carl Friedrik suitcases were stuffed to the brim.

Thanks to its high-end construction, the contents in my Carl Friedrik piece barely moved throughout the journey.

Though my Samsonite bag kept my belongings safe and secure, the suitcase felt ‘loose’, if that makes sense.

Reason #3: The difference in price is proportionate to the difference in experience

After reviewing my experience with these suitcases, I felt surprised that the Carl Friedrik Check-In isn’t more expensive.

On top of its expert handling and high-quality materials, I was happy that the suitcase felt and looked nice without overtly advertising its price—in my head, that minimizes the chances that someone will steal it.

My one critique is that the Carl Friedrik Check-In did get a little dinged on the multi-leg journey across the Atlantic. However, the small black mark doesn’t bother me—and I also went with the lightest color option available. If you’re worried about small dings, go for a darker color; I doubt you’ll notice it.

Here’s my conclusion on luxury luggage thanks to my experience with the Carl Friedrik Check-In: if you’re an avid traveler who struggles to get your current check-in suitcase from the parking lot to the check-in counter, then start saving for your next purchase.

By spending only a few hundred more dollars, you’ll have a bona fide ride-or-die suitcase at your side—one that probably comes with an attractive guarantee. (And make sure to check out the Carl Friedrik Check-In when you do!)

The 7 Coolest Canyons in Utah

How many canyons can you name?

Off the top of my head, I know a few of the US’s most famous rock formations: the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Antelope Canyon. And I more or less know where to find them; our greatest canyons dot states like Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah.

But if we’re taking a closer look at the coolest canyons the US has to offer (instead of the largest), then we might need to wander a bit farther off the trail map—and straight into the wild frontiers of Utah.

From gulches to falls to slot canyons, the state is home to dozens of lesser-known gems that only experienced outdoorists would know. If you’ve got a thing for red rocks, deserts, and millennia-old rock formations, Utah is your new mecca.

Don’t miss out on its most memorable, stunning canyons.

7 of the coolest canyons in Utah

Buckskin Gulch

Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness near Kanab, Utah

Red Cliff Walls of Bucksin Gulch in southern Utah (Getty)

Welcome to one of the deepest slot canyons in the United States: Buckskin Gulch. This unique and narrow formation is usually accessed via wire slot canyon—which is narrow enough that permits to enter are capped at 20 per day with groups maxing out at 10.

Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon

Near Goblin Valley, Utah

Sandstone walls of Little Wild Horse Canyon (Getty)

Similar to Buckskin Gulch, this narrow, deep slot canyon requires you to walk sideways to pass through some spots. But the Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon hike will also take you to Bell Canyon, showcasing other unique formations in the area. At only eight miles, it’s a solid starter hike for travelers.

Kanarra Falls

Kanarraville, Utah

Unlike other canyons listed here, you need to pay to experience the wonders of Kanarra Falls—this is private land. That being said, it’s worth the $15 entry fee.

You can explore the stunning slot canyons, which include waterfalls and ladder climbs, then loop back out through the gallery. Though private, the land is well-maintained; there is a permit system in place to prevent overcrowding.

Zebra Slot Canyon

Near Escalante, Utah

Named after its iconic striped sediment layers, Zebra Slot Canyon is a hugely popular destination for state hikers.

Plan on running into other hikers as you navigate this lovely slot canyon, which has a looped trial that only takes around two hours to complete. (You can bundle a visit to Zebra Slot Canyon with Peek-a-Boo Gulch and Spooky Gulch, below.)

Peek-a-Boo Gulch & Spooky Gulch

Near Escalante, Utah

Peekaboo Gulch in Escalante National Monument (Getty)

It’s a two-for-one deal in the Dry Fork area outside Escalante, letting you explore two of Utah’s coolest gulches in a single-loop hike. (The loop hike takes around three to four hours.)

Peek-a-Boo is a corkscrew and slot canyon composed of gorgeous red rock. Spooky Gulch, on the other hand, is named for its incredibly narrow slot canyon—one that you might need to suck in your gut to squeeze through.

Red Hollow Slot Canyon

Near Orderville, Utah

If you’re heading to Zion National Park, don’t forget to set aside time to explore Red Hollow Slot Canyon. This formation is known for its red-and-white walls. Uniquely, you might even see green grass growing between the trees, depending on the season. Unlike some other slot canyons, Red Hollow is beginner-friendly.

Zero Gravity Slot Canyon

Inside the San Rafael Swell, Utah

Near Goblin Valley State Park in San Rafael Swell (Getty)

Last but not least, Zero Gravity Slot Canyon is one of the coolest but most difficult canyons to navigate in the state. In fact, it’s often labeled a ‘technical’ canyon, meaning you need to know a few things about canyoneering.

Unlike others on this list, Zero Gravity Slot Canyon has pockets of water dotted the formations. Experienced hikers only!

5 Top Restaurants in South Carolina from Chef Ambassadors

South Carolina hits just about every marker of a great vacation destination.

There are beaches galore and charming coastal towns ready to host you. There are national parks and wildlife refuges in the mountains and near the ocean. Plus, there are cities to explore and quaint towns to disappear in at your leisure.

Even during winter, there’s plenty to do.

But let’s not forget about South Carolina’s culinary prowess.

This state’s unique position means local dishes carry traces of New England traditions, southern tastes, and even Appalachian practices. There’s even a bona fide barbecue tradition that you won’t find in other states.

The big question is—which restaurants shouldn’t you miss on your next trip to South Carolina?

This year, I’m leaning on the recommendations from the top state authority: Discover South Carolina. They’ve named three South Carolina chef ambassadors for 2025, and these are their restaurants.

First, meet the minds behind the top restaurants in South Carolina

Discover South Carolina selected Chef Shuai Wang, Chef Darren Smith, and Chef Jeanne Koenigsberg as its official culinary ambassadors.

Born in Beijing, Wang immigrated to New York City at age 9—and went on to flunk out of high school before finding his calling as a cook. After reading Anthony Bourdain’s Kitchen Confidential, Wang began dreaming of his own culinary adventures—ones that blend his cultural roots with his American identity and eventually landed him a place on Top Chef Season 22.

Smith, by contrast, got his start opening a bistro with his wife in the mid-1990s. Smith’s current focus on locally sourced ingredients began when his landlord, a local farmer, agreed to bring his produce for Smith to prepare. Over 30 years later, Smith remains dedicated to sourcing the best South Carolina has to offer for his dishes.

Koenigsberg always knew she wanted to be a chef. When she nailed a job as a dishwasher at her dream restaurant, she quickly stepped up to line cook—and never looked back. Today, Koenigsberg blends her love of cooking with her focus on building community and showcasing South Carolina’s rich agricultural history.

Top 5 restaurants in South Carolina in 2025

Jackrabbit Filly (Wang)

North Charleston, SC

This edgy family-style restaurant serves up ‘heritage-driven Chinese’, which means you can expect flavor profiles common to areas like Beijing—all the way in Charleston. But that doesn’t mean it’s only traditional Chinese on the menu at Jackrabbit Filly.

Along with American favorites like krab rangoon (served in a cheese ball style), there are also unique fusions like spicy Korean pierogis and house-made scallion pancakes. Think of it like an elevated, imaginative take on Chinese-American food—one that leans more into its Eastern influences.

King BBQ (Wang)

North Charleston, SC

Named one of Bon Appetit’s Best New Restaurants in 2024, King BBQ also serves up a perfectly balanced blend of US barbecue tastes and Chinese barbecue flavors.

You can order dishes like smoked sausage, crispy roast pork belly, and chopped smoked pork a la carte. Or you can dive into its most celebrated fusions, like BBQ noodle soup, BBQ meats on noodles, and BBQ meats on rice. Simple and delicious.

Rivertown Bistro (Smith)

Conway, SC

This classic American bistro offers a contemporary twist on beloved dishes—and that twist is all about hyper-fresh ingredients. Though the menu isn’t necessarily imaginative, it doesn’t need to be at Rivertown Bistro. Smith has nailed his approach to every single dish available, from ingredients to cooking, and you’ll taste the perfectionism in each bite.

Bonfire Taqueria (Smith)

Conway, SC

You might see this establishment listed as Bonfire, a Smokin’ Taqueria—which should clue you into one of the most important ingredients: smoke.

Meats are slow-cooked and often infused with smoky flavors, which makes each bite a complex and iconic combination of South Carolina ingredients. You can also find classic Mexican dishes like burritos and chimichangas, along with more imaginative dishes like Jamaican quinoa.

Swamp Rabbit Café (Koenigsberg)

Greenville, SC

Part grocery store and part café, Swamp Rabbit Cafe is all about bringing locals together—and feeding them, of course. Along with local products and produce, you can also order small items from the bakery and coffee from the bar.

However, the focus is also on wholesale food and meat, so don’t be afraid to bring your shopping bag with you at Swamp Rabbit Café.

5 Life-Changing Jet Lag Apps

Jet lag is a waking nightmare.

Usually, the most common symptoms include fatigue, irritability, headaches, constipation, and poor concentration. But if you’re one of the more unlucky travelers like me, it can also wreak havoc on your appetite and spur on insomnia.

(Does anyone else get nauseous at mealtime when dealing with jet lag?)

Though many business travelers have their jet lag apps and routines down pat, dealing with the issues listed above can wreak havoc on our vacations.

We lose precious time feeling zonked out and cranky. We might even miss out on experiences—or misplace important items. We might even face so much brain fog that we’re unable to be present and enjoy the moment.

But I’ve got good news. Whether or not you’re able to sleep on planes, there are close to a dozen apps available in the iOS and Google Play Store that will help you manage jet lag—possibly even before you step foot on a plane.

5 jet lag apps: shortcut

The latest jet lag solution: FlyKitt
The OG jet lag solution: Timeshifter
The total sleep app: Calm
The exercise-focused app: Uplift
The sleep monitor: Sleep Cycle

Jet lag apps that will have an immediate impact

FlyKitt

FlyKitt is one of the coolest new jet lag-tackling apps out there. Unlike other apps on the market, it’s fully personalized and tailored to your data, habits, and goals. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, FlyKitt uses an algorithm to set up your jet lag protocols, offering an unprecedented level of detail.

Using practices like chronobiology, FlyKitt carefully maps out what you’ll need to succeed. In fact, you’ll use FlyKitt’s patented supplement packs to minimize inflammation, which exacerbates symptoms of jet lag. You even get a pair of blue light-filtering glasses to help with light exposure.

Timeshifter

The OG jet lag app has slowly been refining its approach since 2018. Using a range of in-app features, you can refine how you sleep, stay alert, and maintain your health while traveling. Thanks to AI-driven models and your personal information, Timeshifter works with you to streamline your circadian rhythm.

The result is a timetable that suggests when you should sleep, avoid bright light, eat, avoid caffeine and alcohol, and more. If you want a personal assistant to keep you in line to beat jet lag, look no further.

Calm

Calm is an app designed for better sleep. Though it wasn’t created specifically for jet lag, its meditation features and Sleep Stories were crafted specifically with long, restful nights in mind. You can use it wherever you travel as a sleep aid.

That being said, its meditation and mindfulness programs can go a long way in helping you calm down before bedtime. After all, even if you’re using a jet lag-specific app like FlyKitt or Timeshifter, you’ll probably still need a little help coming down after a busy day. From stress relief techniques to breathing exercises, there’s a solution for all your calming needs.

Uplift

Uplift has one singular focus: use nerve stimulation to adjust your internal clock to any time zone in the world. How does it do that? Uplift is a simple four-step program that includes physical exercises that are designed to tap into your biorhythm.

To set up your account on Uplift, you first need to complete a few exercises and then input your results. From there, you’ll receive a customized jet lag prevention program.

Sleep Cycle

Similar to Entrain (below), Sleep Cycle works by analyzing your biometric data related to sleep. From there, the app creates a personalized sleep routine for your needs. The key here is in the details. Because Sleep Cycle dives so deeply into your sleep stats, you can expect a thorough set of recommendations.

The app does this by using sound analysis (so the phone needs to be close to you when you sleep), including snoring, sleep-talking, and other identifiable noises. From there, the app will even suggest necessary sleep aids.

7 Reasons Fort Lauderdale Beats Miami

Judging by a map, you might think Fort Lauderdale and Miami are indistinguishable.

To be fair, they’re both part of the Greater Miami Metropolitan Area, which includes Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. And if you’re unfamiliar with the area, you might drive from one to the other without realizing that you’ve entered a new jurisdiction.

But if you’re from South Florida, then you already know that Miami and Fort Lauderdale are very different.

And while Miami usually takes headlines thanks to its distinct Art Deco architecture, vibrant Haitian and Cuban communities, and associations with all things Latin and sexy, Fort Lauderdale is also worth a visit.

In fact, it might even be the better choice for some travelers.

Ready to zoom out and see in what ways Fort Lauderdale outperforms Miami? Here’s what you need to know about what makes Fort Lauderdale better than its counterpart for some travelers.

7 reasons Fort Lauderdale beats Miami

Reason # 1: It’s more budget-friendly

Miami is one of the flashiest places in the United States. In fact, its skyline is only dwarfed by Chicago and New York City—which I think paints a solid picture of the type of wealth and opulence that’s at play in Miami.

Though travelers can avoid it by staying at hostels and avoiding high-profile establishments, Miami’s prices will catch up to even the savviest saver.

That’s not necessarily the case in Fort Lauderdale. Though the city isn’t short on luxury options, its hotels, restaurants, clubs, shops, rentals, and more are all cheaper than Miami on average. Dining and entertainment, particularly, are more affordable.

The only caveat that I want to point out is public transportation. Neither Fort Lauderdale nor Miami has extensive public transportation, which means you’ll probably need to rent a car to get around. (Although they do have a water taxi!)

Reason # 2: It’s friendlier

Again, let me reiterate: for all its beachy vibes, Miami is still a major urban center. As with any other busy enclave, most locals are more curt than in small towns.

You’ll be able to feel the difference between Miami and Fort Lauderdale. The latter is much more welcoming because the lifestyle is slower-paced.

In fact, some travelers say they return to Fort Lauderdale because they’ve made lasting connections—which is always the marker of a friendly destination.

Reason # 3: The airport is faster and more reliable

Every time I fly into Miami from Europe, something goes awry. Given that Miami is a major hub that frequently faces air traffic delays, that’s not too surprising.

You’ll have much better luck flying in and out of Fort Lauderdale.

Though tickets might not be quite as cheap, the experience is sure to be a lot more streamlined than at MIA. Plus, you can easily take the complimentary Tri-Rail shuttle from the airport into town. It runs every 15-20 minutes.

Reason # 4: Cleaner and more relaxed beaches

It’s hard to beat the big name of Miami’s South Beach. That being said, if you want to soak up coastal views and drink in the sunshine, Fort Lauderdale should be your focus. The city is known for its tranquil, pristine beaches—and they don’t get nearly as rowdy as popular spots in Miami.

Plus, the beachfront resorts in Fort Lauderdale are more affordable than in Miami. Even better, you can find plenty of scuba diving and snorkeling companies that offer service to diving spots like Vista Park Reef.

Reason # 5: Nightlife is still good

No, Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife doesn’t hold a candle to Miami. (I’m sure no one is surprised by that.)

Still, Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife scene isn’t boring by any stretch. Between Las Olas Boulevard to the River Front area, there are enough clubs, bars, and breweries to keep you busy all night long.

Reason # 6: There’s plenty to do—from couples getaways to family activities

With its penchant for nightlife and photo ops, Miami is often recommended for twenty-somethings on bachelorettes, spring break trips, and similar high-energy getaways.

By contrast, Fort Lauderdale has a diverse range of opportunities for all types of travelers.

Family-friendly restaurants and resorts abound, along with secluded spots for couples enjoying a honeymoon or anniversary. Couples, in particular, will find the area’s more relaxed atmosphere bodes well for relaxing at the beach, grabbing a cocktail, or simply disappearing at a secluded, romantic resort.

Reason # 7: It’s the Venice of America

Lastly, I want to reiterate that Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its natural beauty. Its snaking canals and waterways have earned it the moniker of the Venice of America—and it really does fit the bill.

Best of all, Fort Lauderdale has constructed multiple boardwalks and winding pathways that let you explore the city on foot and soak up those lovely views.

Though Miami isn’t hard on the eyes, either, they offer distinct atmospheres. If serenity is on your radar, Fort Lauderdale should be your priority.

5 Cities in Africa Perfect for Solo Travel

Adventurous travelers usually have Africa on their bucket list.

But as the second-largest continent, vague dreams of traveling to Africa won’t cut it.

You need to know which region you’re heading to, and how to get the most out of your trip.

Is the Sahara and its oases on your radar or do you have your sights set on a safari tour?

Do you want to lounge on the beach or disappear in a buzzing food market?

Are you interested in immersive cultural experiences or do you want to head straight to the continent’s wildest frontiers?

Africa is your oyster. But, again, you need to be mindful about staying within scope. It’s easy to waste time and money by trying to experience all of Africa in a single go.

And while it might feel intimidating to travel to a continent as vast and diverse as Africa as a solo traveler, it’s not out of the question.

So long as you know what you want to do, whether head out on a safari or explore ancient ruins, I’ve got suggestions on the best cities in Africa to get started on your way.

As with continents like Asia, make sure to follow local cultural customs. And as with any solo travel trip, be sure to follow the most important safety rules. Aside from that, expect the unexpected.

Best cities in Africa for solo travel: at a glance

Safari central: Chobe National Park, Botswana
Beachy vibes: Zanzibar, Tanzania
Ancient history: Lalibela, Ethiopia
Modern marvels: Johannesburg, South Africa
Non-stop culture: Antananarivo, Madagascar

Best cities in Africa for solo travel

Safari central: Kasane, Botswana

If safaris are you focus, head to Kasane, Botswana. This city is famous for two reasons. First, it’s where Richard Burton remarried Elizabeth Taylor back in 1975. Second, it’s located on the ‘Four Corners’, which is where the countries of Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Namibia meet.

That makes it a great starting point for all of your safari adventures.

The nearest park is Botswana’s very first protected safari land, Chobe National Park. That makes it easy to join tours of Chobe—even more than once. But because Kasane is a central hub, you can easily expand your adventures into neighboring countries and hit other landmarks, including the famous Victoria Falls.

Here’s where to stay in Kasane and what to do.

Beachy vibes: Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar is the first location on my bucket list. This dreamy island is straight out of a fantasy book with its gorgeous white-walled villages lining the cerulean Indian Ocean. Over the last decade, the island has slowly become a more popular tourist destination, which means you’ll have plenty of familiar infrastructure, from rasta bars to nightclubs.

That being said, Zanzibar is also an ancient island. It’s been occupied for centuries by various forces, which have all left their cultural print. From the food to the historical tours, you’ll be able to feel, taste, and experience a tropical convergence of culture.

Here’s where to stay in Zanzibar and what to do.

Ancient history: Lalibela, Ethiopia

The monolithic church of Saint George, one of the most famous in Lalibela (Getty)

When it comes to ancient history, Egypt’s ancient pyramids and Mali’s Timbuktu are hard to beat. But I’m a culture and history nerd, which means Ethiopia’s Lalibela is my official pick for exploring history in Africa.

Ethiopia is home to a unique sub-sect of Christianity that dates back almost two millennia. And their earliest practitioners left behind many treasures, including rock-hewn monolith churches.

If you’re picturing grand cathedral-like structures, think again. This holy city is home to eleven churches that were carved into monolithic rocks in the ground back in the 12^th and 13^th centuries. Though you can tour them today, they’re still used for worship and are an important site for Christian pilgrims.

Here’s where to stay in Lalibela and what to do.

Desert dreams: Merzouga, Morocco

Sahara desert, Desert Camp and dunes at sunrise. Morocco

If you want to explore the desert in Africa, you can choose between the Namib Desert and the Sahara. Many of my friends have raved about their experience in Morocco, so I’m sticking with the Sahara.

You can easily explore the desert from Merzouga, which offers a range of hospitality deals for travelers of all budgets.bFrom Merzouga, you can day trip into the Sahara or go on a multi-day tour.

Many tours let you also brush elbows with Berber camps—and Berber culture is incredibly charming and hospitable. If you plan your trip carefully, you can even bundle in historic sites like Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou or Volubilis.

Here’s where to stay in Merzouga and what to do.

Non-stop culture: Antananarivo, Madagascar

Antananarivo, called Tana, is the capital city of Madagascar. I’m recommending it over Lagos, Nigeria because there are more unexpected finds in terms of culture.

(But please keep Lagos on your radar! It’s one of the most innovative and coolest cities in Africa when it comes to pop culture, in my humble opinion.)

Madagascar offers a unique blend of Madagascan, Indian, and European influences. You can experience this in just about every way in Tana, from the architecture to the cuisine to the traditional art galleries.

The city’s lush gardens are also another selling point, as they offer a gorgeous backdrop for you to shop, dine, and explore to your heart’s content.

Here’s where to stay in Tana and what to do.