Rocky Mountain Oysters: Top 5 Restaurants That Serve the Dish

Cowboy caviar, prairie oysters, swinging beef—there are many names for Rocky Mountain oysters.

And we all know the core ingredient of this American specialty: bull testicles.

Given the cheeky name, I always assumed Rocky Mountain oysters were the brainchild of some Boulder or Denver-born cattle magnate. In reality, this fried specialty is found anywhere that still practices the art of animal husbandry, including in Canada and Mexico.

Bull testicles aren’t harvested for culinary purposes; they’re a by-product of standard castration practices in cattle-raising communities. Ranchers castrate most young bull calves because it improves the quality of meat and marbling while also making the animals more manageable.

Lesser testosterone = better taste, better attitude. Plus, it’s birth control—no one wants an inbred cow.

Here’s my point: even if you feel weird about eating testicles, Rocky Mountain oysters are all about that adage of not wasting any part of the animal. Plus, they’re fried, served with condiments, and are eaten more often than we might think. (In Spain, this dish is called huevos de toro or ‘bull’s eggs’, with eggs used as slang for testicles.)

Having fun yet?

In case I haven’t turned you off Rocky Mountain oysters, you can find them in these restaurants in major cities around the United States. Turns out, my Colorado associations weren’t entirely inaccurate.

Where to eat Rocky Mountain oysters in the US

Below, I’m listing out restaurants and pubs where you can order this dish any time of year. But keep in mind that many states have well-established festivals for fans of cowboy caviar, such as the Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry in Virginia City, Nevada.

Denver, CO: Buckhorn Exchange & Stockyard Saloon

Buckhorn Exchange is Colorado’s oldest restaurant. Since 1893, it has served up beef, elk, buffalo, and more. With walls decked out in taxidermized animals, it should come as no shock that they specialize in all cuts of meat—including Rocky Mountain oysters. In fact, they’re the first offer on the appetizer menu.

But Buckhorn Exchange isn’t the only purveyor in Denver. You can also head to the casual, line-dance-happy Stockyard Saloon. Rocky Mountain oysters are served as a deep-fried appetizer that goes down well with a cold beer.

Boulder, CO: Dark Horse

This Boulder staple is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Dark Horse serves up Rocky Mountain oysters like many other Colorado establishments, and it’s renowned for selling some of the US’s tastiest and freshest swinging beef out there. Aficionados, start here!

Estes Park, CO: Wapiti Colorado Pub

Heading to Estes Park for an outdoor adventure? Regardless of the season, one reason that families and travelers return to Estes Park is for its family-friendly atmosphere and number of traditional American eateries.

At Wapiti Colorado Pub, you’re treated to a rushing river view and indie culinary feats, from microbrews to exotic game meats. The latter should clue you into one of the pub’s specialties: Rocky Mountain oysters.

Cody, WY: Proud Cut Saloon

Similar to Estes Park, Cody, Wyoming, is a top pick for outdoor adventurers. And the Proud Cut Saloon should be high on your list of eateries—even if you don’t want anything to do with Rocky Mountain oysters.

This classic bar takes you back to the days of the Wild West, letting you sample a range of frontier dishes. Along with Rocky Mountain oysters, I suggest sampling the cheese curds and the bison burger.

Fort Worth, TX: Riscky’s Steakhouse

Riscky’s Steakhouse is the brainchild of a family-run barbecue dynasty (Riscky’s Barbecue). The brand’s access to fresh meats means one thing: you can expect fresh and delicious Rocky Mountain oysters.

Just be warned that they’re known as calf fries at Riscky’s, which is what the dish is commonly called throughout the Lone Star State. It’s also their most recommended dish.

The 5 Dirtiest Spots in Your Hotel Room & Private Rental

I’m sure you’ve heard: don’t touch the duvets in a hotel room—they’re rarely ever washed.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to germs in high-traffic tourist spots. Hotels tend to take the brunt of criticism because room cleaning isn’t optimized. Maids are often responsible for covering many rooms per day (usually while being paid subpar rates for their labor).

But even Airbnb rentals and other private options often come up short.

Just think about previous renters who might be responsible for handling certain cleaning duties before checking out. After all, if qualified hotel staff are cutting corners, do you really think Ken from South Carolina is going to go above and beyond to disinfect his Airbnb? (He’s not.)

Unfortunately, it’s easy for germs to spread when cleaning duties are shirked. There’s a big difference between dusting off a shelf and disinfecting a bathroom, after all.

If you’re a germophobe, you might want to bring a packet of disinfecting wipes to target the dirtiest spots before settling into your new temporary abode. Here’s my advice on which areas you need to focus on, regardless of whether you’re staying in a hotel or a private rental.

The dirtiest spots in your hotel room & private rental

Light switches, remotes, controllers, and keys

Here’s my sage advice when cleaning the dirtiest spots in any place: follow the fingers. You should be focused on those small spots that we touch most often but are usually overlooked when we bust out the Mister Clean.

Remotes and video game controllers are rarely cleaned, along with light switches, toilet flush handles, and even keys. Wiping these areas down (with a disinfecting agent) immediately protects you from whatever germs the last tenant left lying around.

Coffee-makers & kettles

Coffee-makers and kettles are also high-use but rarely cleaned objects that are common to most hotel rooms and rentals. They’re dangerous breeding grounds for bacteria because they have so many warm, damp, and enclosed spots.

I highly recommend thoroughly cleaning either before using. While you might be able to spot mold or bacteria inside a kettle more easily, a coffee maker has more moving parts that you need to be mindful of when cleaning.

The couch

I have never once washed my own couch. The cushions—yes. The pillows—absolutely. But the armrests… how does someone even wash a couch’s armrest?

I’m a very tidy person, so if I can’t figure out how to clean the couch at my own apartment, I’m convinced no one has even tried at the average hotel or rental. And while I wash my blankets at home, I doubt the blankets at most rentals are tossed into the washing machine often.

Unfortunately, there’s no simple way to clean armrests. Just be mindful not to eat off of them like a plate. (I know, you were probably tempted!)

Everything near the toilet—including toilet paper

To put it poetically, every flush of the toilet is like detonating an atomic bomb of germs. And fecal matter, too. Even if you close the toilet seat before flushing (like an angel), that doesn’t mean the previous tenants did so.

If you’re a germophobe, wipe down everything close to the toilet—including the flush handle. If the toilet paper hasn’t been resupplied, I’d leave it aside and start with a fresh roll.

The dishwasher & washing machine

Most private rentals offer dishwashers and washing machines—but these are also breeding grounds for bacteria and mold when not washed correctly, like kettles. Usually, this can be remedied by a self-wash setting, which most new dishwashers and washing machines have.

If not, you have a few options. I’d recommend washing dishes by hand. In terms of a washing machine, you can run a hot-water load with vinegar or baking soda solution to keep your clothes extra-fresh while minimizing any unpleasant odors.

But that’s quite a bit of work for someone on vacation—so the easier solution would be to find a laundromat nearby.

Stopover in Istanbul: How to Explore the City for Free

Stopover programs are one of the best-kept secrets in travel.

Stopover programs are offered to travelers with long layovers, usually by a tourism authority, airline, or partnership between them. As of early 2025, you can find stopover programs in Iceland, Qatar, and even Madrid, Spain, that let you explore hotspots with hefty discounts.

The goal is to get passengers out of airports and onward to popular sites while they wait for their connection.

But not all stopover programs are created equal. The main catch is that you’re offered discounts around a city… but that doesn’t include free experiences.

That’s not the case with Turkish Airlines. Their Stopover in Istanbul program includes a free hotel stay and shuttle that takes you straight into the heart of an endlessly fascinating capital. Again, for free.

Here’s how to take part.

(This article does not discuss the Touristanbul stopover program. The offer listed here is only from Turkish Airlines. Also, this isn’t a paid ad. I really think this stopover offer is a steal.)

What’s included in the Stopover in Istanbul program?

The Stopover in Istanbul program was created by Turkish Airlines in 2017. The offer includes free hotel accommodation via their partners around the city. Economy passengers earn a free one-night stay at a four-star hotel, while business class members can request a stay at a five-star hotel.

Here’s how it goes. Passengers who have a connection at Istanbul Airport with round-trip tickets from Turkish Airlines can apply for the stopover program by sending in their flight dates and preferred accommodation type.

Using this hotel as a base, they can explore the city. While Turkish Airlines doesn’t offer any free experiences, the hotel stay doesn’t cost a dime.

Who would enjoy the program?

I’ve combed through reviews of the Stopover in Istanbul program to try to gauge what types of travelers have enjoyed the experience.

Overwhelmingly, it looks like fans of history and culture have seized the opportunity to explore Istanbul for a day. As an ancient city, you won’t be short on stunning museums and religious-historical sites.

That being said, it’s also a hit for shoppers and curio-lovers. Let’s not forget that Istanbul specializes in Turkish rugs and carpets, which are highly sought-after. Ceramics, tiles, lamps, and lanterns are also some of the most high-quality products in the world.

Istanbul is also renowned as a foodie hotspot. Its coffee culture is unparalleled—and tea, too. On top of coffee and tea, you can expect delicious treats at every turn, from Turkish Delights to top-notch olive oils.

For this reason, I suggest booking that stopover program on your return flight. Just make sure you leave plenty of space in your bags.

How can travelers take part in Stopover in Istanbul?

Here’s the important part: to take part in the Stopover in Istanbul program, you need to reach out to let the airline know that you want to take advantage of the free hotel room at least 72 hours before your flight. Americans should email ‘freehotelusa@thy.com’ to connect with a customer service agent.

On top of that, you need to make sure your layover is at least 20 hours. (There’s more fine print here, but it looks pretty reasonable.)

From there, you need to send over your flight details, dates, and preferred type of lodging. Realistically, I imagine that most travelers will have purposefully targeted a flight with that insane 20-hour-plus layover. If that’s the case, book that hotel room as soon as possible.

And keep in mind that Americans need a visa to enter Turkey. It’s an easy process that can be done online.

Checked Luggage vs. Carry-Ons: Which Should You Take?

I almost always pack a carry-on for my travels.

Carry-ons are the simple solution I’m looking for. As a minimalist packer who usually goes on short trips (up to one week long), I’m used to the more limited setup. Last year, I stuck to a carry-on even for a longer ten-day trip.

That being said, I know when to go for a checked suitcase. I just returned from a three-week trip home to the US, where I shopped compulsively. For my flight home, I checked two large suitcases—mostly because I had a hefty winter coat and lush bathrobe in my arsenal, and I wasn’t going to leave either behind.

This example highlights my approach to the checked luggage vs. carry-on debate: utility.

For the majority of my travels, a carry-on is more than enough. But there are times when I don’t just bust out one checked suitcase—I’ll stuff two to full capacity.

If you’re still a little unsure of when to go for checked luggage vs. carry-ons, consider this your guide. I’m breaking down every factor you need to consider when making the decision.

After all, we’ve all been there, staring at our two options next to a pile of clothes and wondering which to take.

Checked luggage vs. carry-ons: the basics

Unfortunately, there’s no hard-and-fast rule that will help you decide between your large suitcase and your carry-on. Every trip should be carefully considered before you refine your packing list, from season to budget to agility. (I’ll cover these points below.)

But here’s the general rule. When you take a carry-on, you sacrifice space for convenience. On the other hand, when you check your luggage, you maximize your packing space but sacrifice mobility.

It sounds simple, but you need to be honest with yourself about your packing needs and what could happen on your trip.

So, which factors should you consider before making that decision?

Checked luggage vs. carry-ons: every factor you need to consider

Public transportation

Checked suitcases are hard to move around. Even lifting one into the back of a taxi might be a challenge depending on the weight and shape of your luggage.

If you’re heading to an all-inclusive resort, that’s no big deal—but if you’re planning on using public transportation (especially busses), you’re going to be frustrated and sweaty sooner than you think.

If you’re planning on using public transportation, make that carry-on work.

Duty-free bonanzas—and other types of shopping

If you plan on raiding a duty-free store or a boutique in Paris, then you need the extra space afforded by checked luggage. I love to shop on vacation, but I’ve limited myself in the past based on the amount of suitcase space I could spare.

If I’m traveling with my partner, he’s usually very gracious about sharing. (Usually.) Make sure to consider the possibility of taking home a haul of goods with you—in which case, you should probably check a suitcase.

The question of size

Here’s the kicker about carry-ons: many models sold don’t actually meet new airline requirements, especially for smaller domestic flights. Before you decide to stick to a carry-on, make sure it falls within your airline’s acceptable measurements. Many are shrinking their carry-on sizes.

Seasonality

If it’s winter, you need to be ruthless with your packing list for a carry-on. I’m talking about choosing one pair of shoes, one coat, and one or two larger sweaters.

Or check a suitcase. I’d recommend opting for the larger option in this case, as it gives you a bit more space to pack in a souvenir.

Budget

When we’re talking about budget travel, carry-ons are your best friend—usually, at least. Even if an airline clocks your carry-on as too large for their size requirements, they won’t charge you to check it in.

However, if you’re sacrificing packing essentials (from facewash to charging cables), you might end up footing the bill at your destination. If you’re heading into a touristy zone, you’ll be paying a premium for even the most basic items—and the total bill might be higher than a checked bag fee.

Potential losses

One reason that many travelers skip the checked luggage is simply to guarantee their items arrive with them. If you’re worried about losing your check-in suitcase or the items that you pack inside, remove the possibility altogether by sticking to a carry-on.

Or keep those essentials with you via purse or duffel, then check the rest of your items in with your bag.

3 Ways to Deal with Long Layovers: Hotel Day Passes, Daycations, & More

When I first started traveling internationally in the early 2000s, long layovers were more common.

Fewer flight routes and airlines meant that six and seven-hour layovers weren’t uncommon, especially when heading to South America, Southeast Asia, and Australia.

Since then, travel has become a much more accessible hobby, and the length of those layovers has been slashed.

That being said, there’s one reason you might actually welcome an insanely long layover: it’ll save you big on long-distance flights. In a similar vein, your airline might have overbooked your flight, handing you an offer too good to pass up to take the next flight.

Regardless of why you end up with a seven-hour-plus layover, you’ll probably want a few suggestions on how to pass the time.

I’ve got suggestions that let you sleep it off, seize the day, or unwind in total comfort.

3 ways to deal with long layovers

1. Find a sleep pod or lounge at the airport (6 hours or less)

The easiest way to manage a long layover is to get some shut-eye. If you’re crossing many time zones and have a busy schedule at your destination, getting added rest will help you offset those less pleasant symptoms of extended air travel, from jet lag to constipation.

The easiest way to rest at the airport is to find a sleeping pod or an airport lounge that offers day passes. Sleeping pods are listed directly in an airport’s directory; most modern, international hubs offer these, including the US’s JFK, Dallas-Fort Worth, and LAX.

If you’re a little too wired for sleep, you can head to the nearest airport lounge. Many lounges let you purchase a temporary day pass that costs around $100, even if you aren’t a member of the airline’s loyalty program or Priority Pass.

For example, Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Club, and other airline lounges (usually) offer day passes for passengers flying with their airline that day.

2. Find a hotel that offers day passes (8 hours or more)

If your layover is longer than eight hours, I recommend looking for a hotel near the airport that offers a day pass. Similar to airport lounge access, these deals are easier to find than you might think.

The easiest way to look for them is via DayPass, a company that specializes in hooking you up with luxury hotels that offer hourly or daily room rates.

Or if you prefer not to sign up with the company, you can simply look into the airport hotels nearby and then call directly to ask. Usually, these hotels offer airport shuttles, which lets you save on transportation costs, too.

3. Find a luggage locker, then head out on a day tour (10 hours or more)

If you’re facing a layover longer than ten hours, treat it like a normal day. (But first, make sure you don’t need a visa to enter the country.) The vast majority of airports offer luggage lockers.

If not, you can ask your airline to store your luggage until it’s time for takeoff. From there, the city is your oyster.

In Chicago, you can reach sites like the Art Institute of Chicago or the Siskel Film Center from O’Hare easily. The Los Angeles, you can lounge on Manhattan Beach or cruise the boardwalk in Venice.

The point is: don’t write off a little daytime adventure. Even if you only get to sit down for a meal, you’ll have a much better time outside than being stuck in an airport.

5 Florida Cities With the Worst Spring Break Rush—Travelers Beware!

I’ve heard some Floridians dislike the winter bird rush, but I’ve never heard how they feel about the millions of rowdy college students that flood in over spring break. (I’ve heard rumors of a bad breakup, though!)

The months of March and April open a revolving door of college-aged parties across the state.

Back when spring break first began in the 1930s, it revolved around the idea of finding warmer training grounds for college athletes up north—similar to the MLB’s current Spring Training setup.

Over the decades, the trail leading south to Florida for spring break has widened and become well-trodden. While the crazy vibes were once confined to hubs like Miami and Ft. Lauderdale, the party scene has proliferated state-wide.

And in the last five years, the crowds have turned from party-focused to unhinged, causing problems for law enforcement and locals.

Residents in Florida cities like Fort Lauderdale, Panama City, Tampa, and beyond have had enough of the unending parties, noise, and mess. Local authorities are gearing up for a 2025 crackdown, while cities like Miami have already launched their own counter-spring break measures.

In lieu of wild parties, most areas are pushing for a family-friendly atmosphere.

Regardless of how you feel about wayward youth shotgunning White Claws in cut-off tees, you might want to know which Florida cities have the worst spring break rush.

5 Florida cities with the worst spring break rush

Miami & Ft. Lauderdale

Though distinct cities, these destinations meld into a single party zone for college kids during spring break. Miami welcomes over 10 million revelers each year, with numbers hiking over 12 million in 2024.

Fort Lauderdale, by contrast, has had more success with its enforcement crackdowns. Last year’s increased police presence and safety measures have caused most springbreakers to shift their plans.

If you have plans to visit Miami in March, consider heading north to Fort Lauderdale. You might be able to escape much of the party rush.

Panama City Beach

Billed as the ‘Capital of Spring Break’, Panama City Beach has also seen major crackdowns over the last two years. Last year, the city’s police chief hailed the new measures as a success. So, while you can expect crowds on crowds in Panama City Beach, they might not interrupt your plans too much.

At least, so long as you book your hotel ahead of time. Last year, the city’s peak travel week saw every single hotel room in the city rented out—which is around 16,000 per day. (I’d vote heading to another Emerald Coast escape altogether.)

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach’s spring break madness peaked back in the 1990s when MTV followed college kids across the beach throughout the heaviest party days. Since then, the city has successfully pivoted toward a more family-friendly atmosphere. Though college spring breakers still rush into town each March, their numbers are far smaller and more staggered.

That being said, you might want to watch out for the overlap of Bike Week, which takes place annually in March. Bike Week is a motorcycle festival that draws in between 300,000-400,000 fans for more than a week of insane stunts and performances.

Florida Keys

The Keys have slowly become one of Florida’s hottest new spring break destinations, especially in Key West. Though the parties aren’t nearly as rowdy as those in Miami and Fort Lauderdale, you can absolutely expect added crowds and price hikes at most hotels.

If you’re heading to the Keys during spring break (throughout March and into early April), try to avoid Key West.

Siesta Key/Sarasota

Sarasota’s Siesta Key has also started to climb the ranks for spring breakers. Close to ten thousand partiers flooded onto Siesta Key last year—and authorities expect a similar influx this year.

While you won’t face the same spring break fervor as in other hotspots, you can expect plenty of noise and hustle at Siesta Key Beach and in the nearby Siesta Key Village.