My Favorite Books of 2020

Posted: 11/12/2020 | November 12th, 2020

This year hasn’t been what anyone expected. As COVID has reminded us, you never know what tomorrow will bring. And, this year, it didn’t bring too many great things (especially for folks like myself working in the tourism industry).

However, if there’s been one silver lining, it’s that being home this much has allowed me to supercharge my reading. While this year started off slow, since COVID, I’ve been averaging a book (sometimes two) a week. (I mean, after all, what else am I going to do?) Books that have sat in my bookcase for a long time were finally opened.

So, as I look back on this year as it comes to an end, I can find at least one good thing about it!

And, since it’s been an entire year since I a post about my current favorite reads. (As we head into the holiday season, a book is always a good gift idea!) Here are all the books I’ve read this year that I’ve loved:
 

Looking for Transwonderland, by Noo Saro-Wiwa

This was one of the best travel books I’ve read in recent memory. I absolutely loved it. Author Noo Saro-Wiwa returns to her Nigerian homeland from London to learn more about her heritage, country, and her father. It’s filled with vivid descriptions, engaging prose, and wonderful dialogue that gives a lot of insight into the country and diversity of Nigeria. It’s a must-read.

Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop
 

The Invisible Hook, by Peter Leeson

This book is about the economics of piracy in the 1700s. It’s a fascinating look at how pirates created constitutions, workers’ compensation programs, governed themselves, and used branding to minimize battles. Turns out, everything you think you know about pirates is just flat wrong. You wouldn’t think a book on “the economics of piracy” would be interesting but you’d be wrong on that account too!

Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop
 

Atomic Habits, by James Clear

This cultural bombshell of a book teaches us that small changes to our habits can create big results and help us create systems to achieve our goals. It was a good guide to how to structure your life for maximum pleasure (like waking up early to read!). While I do a lot of what he suggests, there were some tidbits that made me rethink my own habits. It’s the most practical habit creation book I’ve read.

Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop
 
 

See You in the Piazza, by Frances Mayes

Frances Mayes is famous for sitting under the Tuscan sun, but in this book she and her husband Ed take you off the tourist trail and around thirteen regions in Italy. Just as wonderfully written as Under the Tuscan Sun, this look at Italian food and culture was inspiring and informative, and it will fill you with wanderlust. It makes me want to go to Italy as soon as all this COVID stuff is over.

Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop
 
 

An Arabian Journey, by Levison Wood

Levison Wood is a British author who likes to go on long walks. He’s walked the Nile, the Himalayas, and the Americas. In this book, he spends months walking across the Middle East during the height of the Syrian civil war. I’m a big fan of Wood: his engrossing stories are filled with people and interesting facts about places. I found myself devouring this book as quickly as his previous ones.

Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop
 
 

The Great Influenza, John M. Barry

This is a fascinating look at the 1918 flu pandemic, covering how the flu works, public health measures, and other aspects of what happened during the outbreak. There are a lot of lessons here that we could (re)learn as we battle COVID. Skip the entire first section though: it’s a really boring history about the main scientists and doctors and not needed at all. After that, though, the book really picks up.

Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop
 

Stardust, by Neil Gaiman

I love the movie Stardust and it was only after listening to Neil Gaiman’s MasterClass did I realize it was based on a book that he wrote! So, I picked it up and devoured it in a few sittings. The story kept me saying, “And then what happened?”, which is what you want any book to do. It’s a very wonderful book that will have you daydreaming about adventure.

Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop
 
 

Meeting Faith, by Faith Adiele

Faith Adiele is a very talented travel writer and also super nice — one of my favorite humans. This book chronicles her life in Thailand and how she became the first black Buddhist nun in the country. It’s a remarkable book about finding your place in the world.

Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop
 
 

Nerve, by Eva Holland

Written by fellow travel writer Eva Holland, this book is on the science of fear. What causes it? How do we get over it? And how does it relate to adventure? Using her desire to get rid of her own fears, she deep dives into the science of fear and what we can do about it. Eva is one of my favorite writers and she knocks it out of the park with her first book.

Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop
 
 

Tracks, by Robyn Davidson

This book follows Robyn Davidson as she travels solo across the Australian outback in 1980. It was riveting, and as someone who has visited some of the places she went, I found it to be a super interesting account of what they looked like long before I came through. I was captivated from page one of this thrilling tale of grit and adventure.

Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop
 
 

The Three-Body Problem, by Liu Cixin

Some friends turned me onto this sci-fi trilogy that involves aliens, space exploration, human psychology, and the terrifying concept of “a dark forest” that I haven’t stopped thinking about. The third book is my favorite. It’s perhaps one of the greatest sci-fi trilogies I’ve ever read and I’m super psyched Netflix is making it into a series!

Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop
 
 

The Yellow Envelope, Kim Dinan

This book by Kim Dinan was an engaging travelogue about a woman who felt uneasy in her marriage and life in Portland. After convincing her husband to travel the world, they head on an adventure that tests their marriage. Along a journey that lasts longer than they thought, Kim finds her place in the world. It’s a stoy found in many travel books but I enjoyed her writing and tales very much.

Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop
 
 

Talking to Strangers, by Malcolm Gladwell

This is probably now my favorite Malcolm Gladwell book. It’s an amazing look at how we (frequently fail to) communicate with each other. It talks about how we default to truth and make assumptions about people’s intentions. We often don’t put ourselves in the other person’s shoes to understand why they are reacting the way they are — and usually fail to ask too.

Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop
 
 

Neverwhere, by Neil Gaiman

After Stardust, I picked up another Gaiman book. In this fantasy, an everyday Londoner, Richard, gets caught up in “London Below,” a world where the supernatural takes place without people above knowing about it. Incredibly well written and filled with vivid imagery, this is my favorite novel of the year.

Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop
 
 

Ten Years a Nomad, by me!

And, finally, since I haven’t mentioned it in a few months, if you haven’t picked up a copy of my book, now’s a great time to do so. My memoir follows my ten years backpacking the world and talks about the ups and downs of life as a permanent nomad. It’s my treatise on long-term travel and something I poured my heart and soul into. Be sure to come to our December Book Club meeting on it!

Buy on Amazon | Buy on Bookshop
 

***

This has been a great year for reading, and I’ve found some wonderful titles and incredible new authors. COVID may have ruined my travel plans, but I’m an even more devout reader now. If you have any suggestions, drop them in the comments.

P.S. – If you’re looking to get any of these books and are from the US or the UK, I highly recommend Bookshop. It supports independent booksellers — and still makes sure you get your books fast. The discounts aren’t as big, and obviously, there’s no Kindle, but if you’re still getting hard copies, please support your local bookstore. I know it’s super hard not to use Amazon (I default to it too often), but these small stores need our help!

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years.

My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• World Nomads (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel — and I think will help you too!

The post My Favorite Books of 2020 appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

November 12, 2020 at 02:08PM

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by IHholiday Travel trip

12 Things to See and Do in Bristol

Updated: 11/11/20 | November 11th, 2020

While most travelers who visit England only visit London, there are actually a lot of other gems in the country worth exploring.

One such place is Bristol.

“Bristol? There’s not much there.”

That was the standard reply from locals whenever I mentioned I was heading to Bristol.

Needless to say, I had low expectations. But I visited anyway. After all, there’s no such thing as “must-see” — and that means there’s no such thing as “must skip” either.

On arrival, I found a hip college town with amazing eateries, great ethnic food, wonderful things to see, and plenty of green space.

Bristol is like the English version of Seattle. Most travelers seem to use it as a base for trips to Bath, and never fully explore this city, giving it only a brief glance before heading back to London.

This is a mistake.

With a population of around 500,000, Bristol is the largest city in southern England (after London) and is also one of the largest shipping ports in England. It received a royal charter in 1155 and, until the rise of Liverpool, Birmingham, and Manchester during the Industrial Revolution, was one of England’s largest cities.

Bristol suffered extensive bombing during World War II and a subsequent decline in its manufacturing industry. Today, the city is a vibrant college town. The University of Bristol dominates the city and the students provide a lot of income and jobs for the community.

To help you make the most out of your visit, here’s a list of my favorite things to see and do in Bristol:
 

1. Bristol Cathedral

This beautiful cathedral was consecrated in 1148 and was built in the Romanesque style (and has a similar design to Notre Dame in Paris). Originally named St. Augustine’s Abbey, the cathedral stretches over 300 feet and while much of it has been rebuilt, some of the original building remains.

Tours are available on Saturdays at 11:30am and 1:30pm for free, though a donation of 5 GBP is suggested.

College Green, West End, +44 117 926 4879, bristol-cathedral.co.uk. Open Tuesday-Saturday from 9am-4pm and 11:30am-3pm on Sundays. Dress respectfully as this is a place of worship. Admission is free.
 

2. Wander King Street

Originally laid out in 1650, King Street is a fascinating, historical part of Bristol. It used to be where the old sailing barges docked after their journeys from South Wales. Now the area is the heart of the theatrical district and features outstanding bars and restaurants. There are even some pubs from the 17th century that are still standing, such as The Hatchet Inn which was built in 1606!
 

3. See the Clifton Suspension Bridge

This is Bristol’s most famous landmark. Suspended high above the Avon Gorge and River Avon, the bridge opened in 1864 and provides sweeping views of the river and surrounding parks and buildings. It was also where one of the early bungee jumps in the UK was held in the 1970’s. The bridge stretches 1,352ft (412m) and handles almost 10,000 vehicles per day. There’s a small visitor center nearby where you can learn more about the bridge and its history too (it’s open daily from 10am-5pm).
 

4. Check out St. Nicholas Market

This is a lively, bustling market with more shops than you could go through in an afternoon. There seems to be an endless number of farmers’ stalls with amazing local produce, second-hand bookshops, and vintage clothing stores. The market dates back to 1743 and is the perfect place to wander, explore, and people watch.

Corn St, +44 117 922 4014, bristol.gov.uk/web/st-nicholas-markets. Open Monday-Saturday from 9:30am-5pm.
 

5. Visit the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

Established in 1823, this museum covers a little bit of everything — from archaeology to dinosaurs to English history to art. The expansive variety keeps things interesting so even non-history buffs will enjoy it. It’s the area’s largest museum and one of my personal favorites. While there are tens of thousands of items in the museum’s collection, it’s not too overwhelming and easy to see in a few hours. Plus, like all public museums in England, it’s free!

Queens Road, +44 117 922 3571, bristolmuseums.org.uk/bristol-museum-and-art-gallery. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-5pm. Admission is free.
 

6. Take a Walking Tour

Bristol is an old city and has been an important port for almost a thousand years. With so much history, it should come as no surprise that the city has collected its fair share of ghost stories. To hear some of the tales as you explore the city, take a haunted walking tour with Haunted and Hidden Ghost Walks. Their tour lasts 90 minutes and is well worth the 5 GBP!

If haunted walks aren’t your cup of tea, take a street art tour. Bristol is home to several works by Banksy as well as tons of other murals. Tours from Where the Wall last 2 hours and cover the city’s best works of public art. Tours start a 7.50 GBP.
 

7. See the S.S. Great Britain

Located in the harbor, the S.S Great Britain was the world’s first steam-powered passenger liner. It took its maiden voyage in 1845 and was actually the longest ship in the world for almost a decade. (It’s 322 feet long).

Unfortunately, since it was so big it took a long time to build (it took 6 years to complete) and the owners went bankrupt not long after it was launched. It ran aground not long after and was sold for salvage. After being repaired, the ship was used to ferry passengers to Australia from 1852-1881 when the ship was converted to all-sail. It was scuttled and sunk in the Falkland Islands in 1937 where it stayed for 33 years until it was recovered, hauled back to the UK, and turned into a tourist attraction.

Great Western Dockyard, +44 0117 926 0680, ssgreatbritain.org. Open daily from 10am-5pm. Admission is 18 GBP.
 

8. Have Fun at WetheCurious

This science and art center is an educational charity dedicated to cultivating curiosity. Opened in 2000, it’s home to over 250 interactive exhibits, making it a fun and educational place to visit if you’re traveling with kids. They have a planetarium, 3D printers, and exhibits covering the human body, magnets, animation, and more!

1 Millennium Square, +44 0117 915 1000, wethecurious.org. Open Wednesday-Sunday from 10am-5pm. Admission is 14.50 GBP.
 

9. Relax at the Downs

The Downs (Clifton Down and Durdham Down) are a protected parkland on the edge of the city. Spanning over 400 acres, they’re within walking distance of the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Avon Gorge and make for a nice place to relax, stroll, and watch the locals play sports.
 

10. See Cabot Tower

The tower, which stands 32m (105ft), was built in the 1890s to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the Italian explorer John Cabot’s departure from Bristol and his ultimate “discovery” of North America (he was the first European to visit North America since the Norse Vikings in 1,000 CE). The tower is constructed from sandstone and has a narrow staircase inside that you can climb to take in the sweeping view.

Brandon Hill Park, +44 0117 922 3719, bristol.gov.uk/museums-parks-sports-culture/brandon-hill. Open daily from 8:15am-5:15pm. Admission is free.
 

11. Visit Blaise Castle

Built in 1798 in the Gothic Revival style, this “castle” is actually a sham — it’s not a real castle but rather a look-alike built by a wealthy family just for the fun of it. It’s essentially an ornamental building, offering sweeping views over the surrounding 650 acres and the Avon Gorge. There is also a nearby historic home that has been converted into a museum where you can learn more about the castle and its quirky history.

Kings Weston Rd, +44 117 922 2000, bristol.gov.uk/museums-parks-sports-culture/blaise-castle-estate. Open daily from 7:30am–7:15pm (5:15pm in the winter). Admission is free.
 

12. Ride the Avon Valley Railway

This railway, which dates back to the 1860s, once connected Bristol to Bath. Today it’s a three-mile heritage railway where you can ride a steam-powered train. There’s also a fully-restored Victorian train station and get a sense of what traveling was like at the turn of the last century. For hiking enthusiasts, there’s a walking trail beside the tracks if you’d rather explore on foot.

Bitton Station, +44 117 932 5538, avonvalleyrailway.org. Open daily from 9:30am-5:15pm. Steam train tickets are 9 GBP while diesel train tickets are 8 GBP.

***

I thought Bristol, with its old industrial-turned-Bohemian charm, made for a great place to spend a few days. There were historic houses to visit, a few good museums, and some wonderful parks. Its image as an industrial center still lingers on in most of England, making it a place few go or want to explore.

But that works out for the rest of us. For while everyone else heads off to Bath, we can have the city of Bristol to ourselves.

I suspect one day the word will get out, but, at least for now, Bristol remains a hidden gem and a city that is well worth a visit.
 

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the largest inventory. If you’re not looking for a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• World Nomads (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel — and I think will help you too!

Want More Information on England?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on England for even more planning tips!

Photo credit: 6 – Nilfanion, 9 – Nilfanion, 12 – Graeme Churchard, 12 – velodenz

The post 12 Things to See and Do in Bristol appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

November 11, 2020 at 02:26PM

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by IHholiday Travel trip

Should You Travel During COVID-19?

Posted: 11/9/2020 | November 9th, 2020

These days, due to COVID-19, the subject of travel elicits very strong reactions from people — and rightly so. Whenever I post travel tips on social media and forget to include the words “at a later date” or “when it’s safe,” a chorus of commenters tell me it’s irresponsible to promote travel during a pandemic, that everyone just needs to stay home, and I should be ashamed of myself (yes, some people really say that).

Many people were being “travel shamed” for traveling over the summer – even if that trip was somewhere remote.

But, as I wrote in my article on flight shaming, shaming doesn’t solve anything. It doesn’t make someone change their behavior; it only makes them dig in deeper, since shaming comes off as an attack on their character. And no one wants to think they’re the bad guy.

And what about those who rely on tourism to live? How do you tell 10% of the world, “I’m sorry, you have to go hungry and become homeless. We can only travel again when there’s a vaccine available for everyone! Good luck!”?

When COVID struck in March, we were told to stay home to “flatten the curve” so we wouldn’t overrun our hospital systems. In many countries, that happened. In others, especially the United States, it didn’t.

And, now, as the pandemic rages to new heights in many parts of Europe and the United States, a lot of people have COVID fatigue and are starting to travel again (not just to relocate somewhere for months but for a short, leisure trip).

But should you? Should you travel during COVID?

COVID-19 is very real. I had it. Friends of mine have had it. I know people who have lost relatives to it. The virus is six times deadlier than the flu and spreads much quicker. (And, as we enter flu season in the Northern Hemisphere, we now have to worry about that too.)

But, on the other hand, this isn’t the Middle Ages (or even 1918). We know the best practices for reducing the spread of infectious diseases that many countries in the world have implemented (Vietnam, Taiwan, South Korea, New Zealand, Iceland, and Thailand to name a few).

Doctors and researchers discover treatments and vaccines much quicker than in the past (today, as I publish this, Pfizer just announced very promising vaccine trial results).

Now, I don’t fault anyone for wanting to stay home until there’s a vaccine. I have friends that haven’t left their house since the pandemic began. People have a right to be cautious.

But does that mean we should shame people who don’t stay at home?

As someone who took a summer road trip, I know there are ways to travel while reducing risk.

I think we need to treat the virus and travel like we treat STDs and sex. We can’t pretend people aren’t going to have sex (or in the case of the virus, come in contact with other people), but we can arm them with the best information about practicing safe sex (reducing one’s risk of contracting the virus), wearing protection (masks), and the need to get tested often.

When I started writing this article last month, cases and hospitalizations weren’t rising so rapidly as they are now. I think we should, in part, mostly stay home and away from people. Social distance, wear a mask, and be smart.

But, just because the United States and Europe are a basket cases, doesn’t mean everywhere else is. There’s plenty of places that are just fine – and they want visitors.

I still think there’s a safe way to reduce risk and travel. There are many common sense things you can do to be safe:

• Get a COVID test before you go
• Always wear a mask
• Wash your hands
• Maintain social distance
• Avoid large gatherings

Next, follow all the rules. If the state or country you are visiting has strict rules, follow them. A friend recently went to Jamaica, where the government says tourists can only visit certain areas. But he decided to get an Airbnb instead, outside those areas, and I was extremely disappointed to hear that. Two French tourists broke quarantine and caused a second wave in Iceland. Follow the rules wherever you go.

Third, don’t move around a lot. The more places you go, the more you increase your risk of getting (and spreading) it. Wear a mask, practice proper hygiene, social-distance, and avoid crowds. I see too many people going around different countries like it’s all fine. Or complaining when they have to wear a mask. Take the same precautions you would at home — not only to protect yourself but also the people in the destination you’re visiting.

***

When I wrote about my trip to Maine, many people admonished me for going, even though I got tested beforehand and spent most of my time there by myself.

I understand the knee-jerk reaction to traveling right now (“It’s a pandemic!”) but I think it’s important we move past our fear as more is learned about the disease, countries create tourism protocols, testing becomes more widespread, and better therapies are rolled out.

We’re eleven months into this crisis and, while all pandemics end, this one isn’t going to anytime soon. As many doctors have said, this is our new normal for the foreseeable future – and we have to adapt.

I think we’re past the part of this where any travel is 100% irresponsible

If you’re going to be responsible, get tested before you go, know you aren’t bringing the virus, and practice “safe travel” in a destination that is letting you in, I don’t see an ethical issue here.

You definitely shouldn’t travel if you don’t plan to follow the rules like Kira here or can’t get a test before you go. That just makes you a selfish jerk – and the world has enough of those.

As someone who lives in the United States (a hot spot), I’m more on edge about COVID because it’s everywhere here — but every place is different, and there are areas of the world that are safe and that want people to visit.

If you’re not comfortable traveling, that’s fine.

But, as testing is rolled out around the world (even by some airlines), treatments get better, and countries take precautions to reduce the spread, I think travel is possible and, when done responsibly, not unethical to do. Follow the rules. Wear a mask. Be safe.

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for over fifteen years.

My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• World Nomads (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel — and I think will help you too!

The post Should You Travel During COVID-19? appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

November 09, 2020 at 02:38PM

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by IHholiday Travel trip

How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget

Posted: 11/5/2020 | November 5th, 2020

Canada is home to some of the most pristine and unspoiled landscapes in the world. One of the country’s most scenic regions is the Yukon. In this guest post, writer Ethan Craft shares his tips and advice to help you road trip the region on a budget.

Tucked away in Canada’s northwestern corner is the Yukon Territory, a veritable paradise home to just 35,000 people and endless top-notch wilderness. The Yukon is dominated by thick boreal forest in the south and treeless tundra in the north and dotted with rugged peaks and lakeside beaches in between.

I first visited the territory at age 7 as a half-day shore excursion on an Alaskan cruise (yes, the border really is that close), and didn’t know what to make of it. But returning as an adult, it blew my expectations away.

Due to its sheer size and limited public transit options, I found the Yukon to be an ideal place for a Canadian road trip. Two weeks is perfect for covering the best of what the territory has to offer by car, taking you to both historic towns and untamed wilderness.

With a little bit of northern know-how, I took a summer road trip there on the cheap, and you can too using this handy guide that includes all of the territory’s most famous sights (plus some off-the-beaten-path excitement, too!).
 

Days 1–3: Whitehorse

Almost all travelers start their journey in Whitehorse, which is both the Yukon’s capital and largest city, accounting for roughly 70% of the territory’s total population. All major highways pass through here, most rental car agencies are headquartered here, and its Erik Nielsen International Airport offers direct flights to all over Canada, to Alaska, and even to Frankfurt, Germany.

I’d liken Whitehorse to an Austin or Portland of the North; it’s one of the hippest cities I’ve seen in Western Canada. With three days to enjoy, here are some things to do:

• Take in some local history — The four-story MacBride Museum of Yukon History downtown covers every aspect of the territory, with exhibits on the region’s wildlife, art, and Indigenous peoples; the Alaska Highway; and the Klondike Gold Rush, to name just a few.
• Hike Miles Canyon — South of town, the Yukon River has carved a deep canyon that is now home to a network of hiking and biking trails, all anchored by the Miles Canyon Suspension Bridge. According to almost every local I spoke to, the bright blue water here offers the most scenic view in town!
• Eat at the Fireweed Market — If you’re lucky enough to be visiting on a Thursday evening in the summer, swing by the territory’s largest outdoor market. It’s a delicious mix of food trucks, bakers, local artisans, and buskers that gives the markets in Toronto (my hometown) a run for their money. But get here early — some of the locals’ favorite treats can sell out quickly.
• Train with Iditarod sled dogs — Dog lovers, rejoice! In winter, head to the outskirts of Whitehorse to find a range of local sled-dog champions who are happy to offer kennel visits and training runs with a team of race-ready huskies. And don’t worry, you can still visit in the summer (just be ready to race in an ATV instead of a sled). I used Alayuk Adventures near Mt. Lorne and have nothing but praise for Marcelle and her dogs.
• Tour the S.S. Klondike — Now permanently dry-docked next to the river it used to ply, this historic touring ship operated by Parks Canada gives you the run-down on the long and haphazard history of Yukon River paddle wheelers, all while onboard one of the largest ones ever built.

Where to stay

• Town & Mountain Hotel — Like everything in the Yukon, lodging comes at a premium, though this hotel on Main Street appears to offer a fair deal at all times of the year, as well as free parking and an on-site lounge.
• Beez Kneez Bakpakers — The only true hostel in Whitehorse, Beez Kneez is full of perks, including free Wi-Fi, free coffee, laundry service, and a full kitchen.

Tip: Get gas before leaving major population centers. Not only can it be up to 50% more expensive at smaller stations in the backcountry, but you don’t want to risk running out of fuel in the Yukon wilderness. In the far north, you can drive hundreds of miles between gas stations, so fill up wherever you can.
 

Days 4–5: Dawson City

At the height of the Klondike Gold Rush in 1898, Dawson City boasted a population higher than the entire Yukon Territory has today. It’s a textbook boomtown and has preserved its heritage well, maintaining its authentic dirt roads, wood plank sidewalks, and turn-of-the-century buildings.

The drive to Dawson City can be done in as little as five hours from Whitehorse, but that’s without accounting for the numerous viewpoints, roadside hikes, and likely construction delays en route.

Here are a handful of things I’d recommend during your first of two stays in Dawson:

• Drink the Sourtoe Cocktail — This is the quintessential Dawson City activity. The rules for this drink are simple: head to the Sourdough Saloon, order a shot of Canadian whiskey, and down your drink with a mummified human toe in it. And remember: “You can drink it fast or you can drink it slow, but your lips must touch the toe!”
• Visit Dredge No. 4 — South of Dawson City lies the largest gold dredge ever built, a floating fortress that now preserves the gold mining history of the Klondike. It’s recommended to reserve a tour in advance, as it can fill up quickly in peak season.
• Pan for gold — While there are a number of tourist traps throughout the Yukon that offer gold panning in stocked troughs, Claim No. 6 is the real deal. Registered by the government for public use, this stretch of Bonanza Creek near Dredge No. 4 is about as genuine as you can get. I didn’t find any gold nuggets there, but I did snag some gorgeous quartz and polished stones. Be sure to pick up a free gold pan from the Dawson City Visitor Center before you set out!
• Drive to the Midnight Dome — On a hill above town, travelers can find a scenic overlook providing a sweeping view of Dawson City and the surrounding valley. You have two options to get there: a winding road around the mountain, or a very steep hike from downtown.

Where to stay

• Downtown Hotel — This property is one of the cheapest in town, and offers perks for guests. When I checked in, I got 2-for-1 drink coupons at its bar (the famed Sourdough Saloon) and a discount at the in-house Jack London Grill.
• Dawson City River Hostel — Situated in West Dawson, this is the northernmost hostel in Canada! Long a hit with backpackers (especially Europeans), it offers dorms, private rooms, a sauna, and even free bicycle parts. No credit cards.

 

Days 6-8: The Dempster Highway

Now the real adventure begins. You’ll find the start of this 571-mile highway twenty minutes east of Dawson City, taking you all the way from the Yukon’s interior to the Arctic Ocean in the Northwest Territories.

The Yukon portion of the highway runs for about 300 miles (482km) through the Tombstone mountain range and endless pristine wilderness, crossing the Arctic Circle. While the drive was tough on both me and my vehicle, the sights and experiences along the way were worth it:

• Hike Tombstone Territorial Park — I think the most striking scenery on the Dempster Highway can be found just an hour into the drive, where you can enjoy jagged mountains and snaking rivers in this no-fee, off-trail territorial park. I stopped by the Visitor Center at kilometer 71 for all the information I needed.
• Stand on the Arctic Circle — There’s no better photo op to prove you experienced the True North than standing on the Arctic Circle, 30 minutes north of Eagle Plains, the only settlement in the area. Soon after, the tree line ends and you’ll be driving through barren tundra.
• See the Midnight Sun or Northern Lights — Depending on the season, you will likely be far enough north to see either 24-hour darkness and the aurora borealis, or 24-hour daylight when the sun never sets. Bring a flashlight or an eye mask accordingly.
• Watch wildlife — Black bears, marmots, foxes, moose, eagles, and herds of caribou so dense they darken the tundra are just a handful of the animals you might encounter on the Dempster Highway. Personally, I saw more wildlife on this stretch of road than I did in the rest of the territory combined. Binoculars are encouraged!

Tip: Prep your car! I cannot stress this enough: the Dempster Highway will batter your car, no matter how rugged it is. Axle-snapping potholes, shredded tires, and broken windshields are not uncommon. At best, you’ll get away with a layer of inch-thick mud. Experienced truckers recommend having at least one full-size spare tire, road flares, a satellite phone, and a 4×4 vehicle (though I did it with no issues in a four-door sedan). Check road conditions here.

Where to stay

• Eagle Plains Motel — This place isn’t cheap, but it is clean, warm — and your only lodging option for 250 miles in either direction.
• Camping — The Yukon government operates a handful of self-register campsites for both tents and RVs along the Dempster Highway. All government campgrounds are cash-only, but they are inexpensive and operate on the honor system.

Note: If you’re renting a car for your Yukon trip, make sure you are allowed to take it on the Dempster Highway — and any other unpaved roads, for that matter. Due to the route’s rough nature, some rental agencies charge an additional fee for Dempster driving, while others ban it outright.
 

Days 9–10: Dawson City

After a few days on the Dempster Highway, nothing felt better than returning to paved roads. While Dawson City is small by any standard, with just roughly 1,500 residents (it’s not even legally a “city” anymore), there is plenty to do here to occupy four days, broken up into two two-night segments. Upon your return to this historic town, here are some activities to make the most of your stay:

• Check out the Dawson City Firefighters Museum — Located at the north end of town, this by-donation museum houses more than a hundred years of Dawson City’s firefighting history. It’s overseen by a former local fire chief who gave me a very personal guided tour of the old trucks he once drove and the blazes he put out.
• Have a drink at Bombay Peggy’s — To celebrate the end of your Dempster Highway adventure, head for Bombay Peggy’s. It’s a fully restored brothel that serves the best mixed drinks and martinis in Dawson, according to every local I spoke with. And see if you can find out how Peggy got her nickname!
• Explore the “Paddlewheel Graveyard” — Along the riverbank in West Dawson, nearly a dozen paddlewheel ships from the early 1900s have been wrecked on the beach, offering photographers and urban explorers the chance to see some unique Yukon ruins. But don’t make my mistake: bring waterproof shoes if you have a pair.
• Press your luck at Gertie’s — There’s not a person in Dawson who won’t point you to Diamond Tooth Gertie’s Gambling Hall for a night of fun. Whether your vice is the casino (like me), the bar (like me), or the nightly can-can dance shows, there’s something for everyone under Gertie’s roof.

Where to stay

• The Bunkhouse — Centrally located, this historic hotel has free parking, the fastest Wi-Fi I used in the Yukon, and, if you’re really on a tight budget, smaller private rooms with shared bathrooms.
• Camping — Take the free 24-hour ferry over to West Dawson and pitch your tent (or park your RV) at the Yukon River Campground. It’s first-come-first-served, but because the site is one of the largest campgrounds in the territory.

 

Day 11: Faro

Due to the sparse layout of highways in the Yukon, road trips here can involve a lot of backtracking. But don’t worry, there’s a little-discussed secondary route that eventually leads back to civilization: the Campbell Highway.

Cutting through some of the most unspoiled scenery in North America, this road is arguably more remote than the Arctic Dempster Highway — and depending on weather conditions, it can be even more of a challenge.

After a long day’s drive in the backcountry, your best choice is to overnight in Faro, a small mining community named after a card game. Here are some things to check out:

• Visit the Campbell Region Interpretive Centre — There’s no better place to learn the backstory of the Campbell River region and its eponymous explorer than this small-town museum and visitor center, located in the heart of Faro.
• Golf — Despite a population of just a few hundred residents, the layout of tiny Faro is unique, because there’s a nine-hole golf course running right through the middle of town. For an afternoon of fun, rent a set of clubs and hit the links at the Far North’s quirkiest green.
• Play the lottery — Once known for its zinc mining, the Faro of the 21st century has a new claim to fame: selling a $25 CAD million winning lotto ticket, the largest lottery win in the history of the territory. Years later, townsfolk were still telling me the story. Visit the Discovery Store, the only shop in town, and cross your fingers for a repeat!

Where to stay

• Faro Valley View B&B — This B&B’s rates vary with the seasons but never go higher than around $100 CAD in peak season (in winter, rates are about half that). Satellite TV, Wi-Fi, and snacks are all included in the price.
• Airbnb — While Airbnb hosts are few and far between in this part of the Yukon, I suggest checking out this hidden gem outside of Faro. An off-the-grid cabin situated in true wilderness, this rustic stay offers homemade baked goods, canoe rentals, and even a vegetable garden to eat from.

 

Day 12: Watson Lake

After conquering the remaining five hours of Campbell Highway between Faro and the Alaska Highway, return to pavement once and for all in Watson Lake, a small settlement just north of the British Columbia border. While this remote shred of civilization is hardly bustling, it’s the ideal place to recharge with a warm bed, decent cell phone reception, and a good meal (like the best Chinese food in the Yukon — trust me, I tried almost all of them). Check out some of these attractions in the region:

• Cross the Ross River Suspension Bridge — Built in the 1940s to support the ill-fated Canol Pipeline, this wooden suspension bridge towers over one of the only other towns on the Campbell Highway. Here, the only signs of human civilization are the rusting hulks of trucks and cranes once used to build the pipeline. Required listening: “Canol Road” by legendary Canadian folk singer Stan Rogers.
• Learn about the Northern Lights — In the winter, Watson Lake is one of the most popular places in the territory to view the aurora borealis. But whether or not you’re around to see them in the sky, you can learn about this dazzling phenomenon year-round at the local Northern Lights Centre.
• Wander the Sign Post Forest — Any local will tell you, this is the town’s best attraction. Started by a homesick soldier who first posted a sign pointing to his hometown in Illinois, this literal forest has grown to include tens of thousands of road signs, license plates, and other markers from around the world. As a world traveler and license plate collector, this was my version of heaven.
• Add a sign — It’s not just permitted to leave your mark on the Sign Post Forest, it’s encouraged! Whether you bring a souvenir sign from home or create your own at the visitor center’s small sign-making station, travelers passing through are the ones who keep this attraction growing.

Where to stay

• Air Force Lodge — Located in refurbished World War II barracks, this hotel offers one of the best deals in town, with reasonably priced private rooms (most have shared bathrooms).
• Stampeder’s B&B — This B&B is located in the heart of town and is within walking distance of all shops, restaurants, and attractions.

 

Days 13–15: Whitehorse

Following nearly two weeks on the road in the Klondike, it’s now time for one last ride down the winding Alaska Highway and a return to Whitehorse. To complete your northern journey, here are a few things to see on the route and what to do once you’re back in town:

• Visit the George Johnston Museum — Located on the shores of Teslin Lake, about halfway between Watson Lake and Whitehorse, this small-town museum focuses on the lives of the local Tlingit Indigenous people and is highly informative.
• Swim in the Takhini Hot Pools — These steaming hot springs have been in operation for over a hundred years, warming locals and tourists alike in chilly Whitehorse. If you visit on a day when the temperature is at least -20°C, be sure to enter the Hair Freezing Contest for a chance to win $2,000 CAD.
• Take a day trip to Carcross — This is where at age 7 I first laid eyes on the Yukon. With some time to spare, take a trip to this quaint town 45 minutes south of Whitehorse. The terminus of the scenic White Pass & Yukon Railroad that connects to the Alaskan coast, Carcross also lays claim to the oldest store in the Yukon and a patch of sand dunes billed as the world’s northernmost desert.
• Drink at the Yukon Brewing Company — In the world of craft brews, the Yukon Brewing Company is known as one of the most prolific brands in Canada’s north. Ales, lagers, and IPAs are all on offer at this famous Whitehorse brewery.

Where to stay

• Four Seasons B&B — In the heart of Whitehorse’s trendy Riverdale neighborhood, this beautiful bed-and-breakfast offers 10% nightly discounts on longer bookings. Note: In the high season, it requires a two-night minimum stay.
• Hot Springs Hostel — This year-round hostel is located next to the Takhini Hot Pools and guests get 20% off.

***

This two-week itinerary covers almost all the Yukon has to offer in a reasonable amount of time, but, for the true outdoorsman or dedicated explorer, there is much more than can be seen with an additional week: Canada’s highest mountain in Kluane National Park, a perfectly preserved mining town at Keno City, and the scenic White Pass & Yukon Railroad into Alaska, just to name a few.

Yukon is one of the least explored and most underrated parts of Canada. It’s the perfect place for a road trip, to get away from the crowds, and to get closer to nature. Enjoy!

Ethan Craft is a journalist, dual American-Canadian citizen, and lifelong traveler who visited all 50 U.S. states before he could legally have a beer in any of them. Recent trips have taken him to the Arctic Circle, Mexico, Morocco, and the Azores in his long-term quest to visit every corner of the globe. Ethan is currently based in Toronto, Canada.

Book Your Trip to Canada: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• World Nomads (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!gho

Want More Information on Canada?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Canada for even more planning tips!

Photo credit: 6 – Susan Drury

The post How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

November 05, 2020 at 02:00PM

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