Person charging a phone at an airport lounge - Debalina Ghosh/Getty Images
When traveling, power banks are indispensable, and that's why they're among the essential gadgets for frequent flyers. They come in handy to ensure that your devices are always charged up, so that you can continue to communicate, be entertained while on a long-haul flight, or help you navigate a new place. However, if you're planning a flight to Japan any time soon, your power bank will no longer be useful while on board.
Recently, the Japan's Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism Ministry enacted a new policy that bans the use portable power banks on flights into or out of the country. As per the new policy, which went into effect on April 24, 2026, the use of portable power banks can no longer be used on planes: either to charge devices or be plugged into the plane for charging. This policy might seem harsh, but the ministry made the choice following several incidents where these gadgets either "caught fire or started releasing smoke inside airplanes," according to a report by NHK World-Japan.
Finnair announced in January 2026 that it had banned the use of portable chargers in-flight, following in the footsteps of Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, Emirates, EVA Air, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, among others. Japan's transport ministry says the new restrictions are in line with the latest rules set by the International Civil Aviation Organization, so it's likely that more airlines and government agencies will follow suit.
How to stay charged without breaking the rules
Person seated in an airport using a phone that's connected to a portable power bank - Shisheng Ling/Getty Images
Despite the new restrictions imposed by Japan on the use of mobile chargers, you can still enjoy using your phone without worrying about running out of charge. One option is to pre-charge all your devices before boarding, so there isn't a need to top up before you land at your destination. In this case, having a phone with the best battery life will certainly help, as you can continue using it even on long flights without running out of charge.
But some phones do have poor battery life and may not hold up for long periods before shutting down. Even the phones with the best battery life can easily run out of charge if you do intensive tasks like gaming, which consume a lot more power than simply surfing the web or watching videos. In that case, carry a cable and utilize in-seat power outlets if they're available to top up your phone whenever you need.
Medellín may be best known for its “everything and the kitchen sink”-style dishes like bandeja paisa, but Colombia’s second city is no slouch when it comes to cuisine. The city’s growth in the world of gastronomy has been so profound that it even earned a spot on Condé Nast Traveler’s list of the Best Places to Eat in 2026.
But the buzz behind Medellín’s burgeoning food scene has been building long before 2026, and is one that feels well positioned to last far beyond the close of the year. As a Medellín-based food and travel journalist, I’ve had the distinct pleasure of diving deep into the city’s food scene to tell the stories of the chefs, bartenders and business owners making Medellín such a fabulous place to eat. These are some of the top cafes, restaurants, bars, and food trucks to add to your itinerary right now.
Salón Centro
Salón Centro
A visit to downtown Medellín is not complete without a stop at Salón Centro. In fact, it’s worth crossing the city just to dine at the restaurant that is faithfully rewriting the story of one of the city’s most misunderstood neighborhoods. Chef Andrés López is dedicated to highlighting the flavors of Colombia’s Pacific Coast through the fresh ingredients on his menus, sourcing everything from fresh fish straight from Bahía Solano to heritage potato varietals grown by farmers in Boyacá. The drink menu is also designed to impress, featuring infusions, macerations and ferments of everything from Afro-Colombian distillates like viche to traditional spirits like tapetusa.
Idílico
Ask anyone in town where they’d go for a special night out and you’re likely to hear the same answer: Idílico. Esteemed chef Yeison Mora once worked in some of the most famous kitchens in the world (think El Cellar de Can Roca and Central) before returning to Medellín to open Idílico in 2019. Mora’s menu centers around sustainably sourced local ingredients and is both faithful traditional Colombian flavors while infused with creativity and the influence from the chef’s years spent abroad. Idílico was named the Best Modern Colombian Restaurant of 2023.
Carmen
Carmen
When Chef Carmen Ángel first opened her eponymous restaurant, Carmen more than 15 years ago, Medellín’s fine dining scene was quite different, more concerned with looking outward for inspiration than bringing the bounty of Colombia to the plate. Even so many years after its debut, Carmen remains the gold standard for creative cuisine in the city, with signature dishes like blue crab empanadas with guanábana sauce and Meyer lemon ceviche made with fish sourced from the Pacific Coast as staples that local regulars will never tire of. Be sure to arrive before dinner for a drink at the bar: Bar Carmen was named one of the World’s 50 Best Bars for its creative cocktail menu that is just as faithfully dedicated to showcasing the country’s biodiversity.
Don Teo
Don’t let Don Teo’s appearance fool you—this food truck parked in the hillsof Poblado is hands down one of the best places to eat in Medellín. Here’s how you know it’s good: this is where all the local chefs go on their days off, bringing family and friends to sip on cold Costeñitas and dig into fried chicken sandwiches with spicy slaw, grilled meats, and pop-up specials born from chef Mateo Ríos’ boundless creativity and whatever fresh ingredients he has sourced that day. You might not guess it, but Ríos is an award-winning chef who holds a prestigious One Knife designation from the Best Chef Awards—something that makes perfect sense the moment you dig in at Don Teo.
Sambombi Bistró Local
Sambombi Bistró Local
Sure, Sambombi Bistró Local has earned a spot on the list of Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants two years in a row, but there’s zero pretension at this warm, welcoming spot tucked back from the street and hidden behind lush foliage. Chef Jhon Zárate has created a menu that feels like a warm hug, with classic yet elevated dishes like shrimp fried rice, fried chicken sandwiches, and big bowls of pasta, all crafted with sustainable ingredients that are sourced locally. Travel tip: add Baravan to your itinerary, too—this wine bar-style sister spot to Sambombi serves up food that is just as good.
Gesto
Tucked into the folds of the mountains about 45 minutes outside of Medellín, Gesto embodies the experience-first style of dining that feels like a truly timeless trend. It’s worth every ounce of effort it takes to reach this intimate, 20-seat restaurant with an open kitchen that feels like stepping into Chef Miguel Warren’s personal home. In a way, it is; Warren lives right next door, allowing him to tend to the surrounding land where he grows many of the ingredients that make it into his highly seasonal tasting menus. Others are sourced from his family’s more expansive farm about 2.5 hours away, which also supplies renowned Colombian restaurants like El Chato, Leo, and Sambombi.
Hasta La Pizza Baby
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Hasta La Pizza Baby
This is the only plan you need for a memorable night out in Medellín: split a few pizzas with friends at Hasta La Pizza Baby, located on the first floor of an otherwise nondescript office building in Poblado, before heading up to the 22nd floor of the same building for drinks at Mamba Negra, one of the World’s 50 Best Bars. The name of this Neapolitan-style pizzeria may be cheeky, but they take their pizza extremely seriously, turning out wood-fired pies topped with everything from stracciatella and truffle oil to artichoke heart and blue cheese. Hasta La Pizza Baby has hands down the best pizza in town.
Diez y Ocho
It’s all clean, sustainable and unfussy fare at Diez y Ocho in Rionegro, just a short jaunt outside the city. Diez y Ocho’s dishes capture the simple joy of eating uncomplicated food done exceedingly well, drawing a loyal allegiance of local fans who pack this small second-story dining room, even at lunchtime in the middle of the week. Narrowing it down to just one recommendation is a challenge: you’ll want to sample everything from the tuna tartare to the flame-grilled fish with fried rice, and of course, the crudo. Even the desserts are worth repeating, with favorites including oversized chocolate chip cookies with sea salt and ice cream, or creamier dishes made from fresh mangoes when they’re in season.
TEST Kitchen Lab
TEST Kitchen Lab
Led by Peruvian chef Adolfo Cavalie, TEST Kitchen Lab is a true culinary investigation space that lives up to its name. Cavalie’s constant experimentation with the menu has one singular focus: highlighting the biodiversity of Colombia with everything that passes through the kitchen. Be sure to check the restaurant’s calendar before booking your visit; Cavalie has hosted events featuring chefs and bars from across the region, including recent guests like Isolina and Otro Bar in Costa Rica and Álvaro Clavijo of El Chato, which recently earned the number one spot on the list of Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants. Bar-style seating and a slimmed-down space make the experience feel intimate, and invite dialogue with Cavalie and his team.
Café Dragón
It’s hard to be as cool as Café Dragon, and believe me, there are many places in Medellín that try. This multi-level space feels like the mid-century modern home of some eccentric relative, packed with vintage furnishings, a collection of vinyl records, and all the mood lighting you could every hope for. This all-day spot seamlessly caters to both roaming remote workers hunched over their laptop at lunchtime and revelers once night falls. Even if you come for lunch in the afternoon, you’ll want to stick around past dusk, if not for Café Dragón’s killer drinks menu, then for the live music: jazz on Wednesdays and salsa on Thursdays.
This article was originally published on Forbes.com
Basseterre clock tower on St. Kitts.<br>Credit: Elijah-Lovkoff / Getty Images
Set along one of the island's best beaches, the luxe Park Hyatt St. Kitts will wow everyone from honeymooners to families with its impressive culinary program and suites.
Climb to the top of Brimstone Hills Fortress, one of the best-preserved forts in the Caribbean, for sweeping vistas toward neighboring islands.
Catamaran cruises reveal hidden snorkeling spots and stunning beaches, and often feature rum-spiked local cocktails on the sands of Nevis.
Orchid Bay Beach House Restaurant is a breathtaking cliffside eatery where the Italian cuisine is upstaged only by the hues of a Caribbean sunset.
The rugged rain forest interior hides hiking trails, petroglyphs, a volcanic peak, and an upscale resort.
St. Kitts is known as the "Cradle of the Caribbean," the first British colonial settlement in the region, and a stepping stone to islands beyond. Centuries later, it "remains an introduction to a new kind of adventurous, action-packed style of travel that many vacationers have no idea they can experience in the Caribbean," says Greg Pereira, founder of Greg's Safaris and a born-and-bred Kittitian.
Travelers who have yet to venture beyond sun-and-sand destinations like the Mexican Caribbean or the Dominican Republic will embrace the beautiful, beachy coastline and luxe resorts of St. Kitts that ring true to every Caribbean stereotype. Just a quick jaunt from the resorts, the island's raw, rain-forest-covered center reveals everything from a volcanic crater to hiking trails hidden beneath cloud-forest canopies, where vervet monkeys swing. It's these experiences that make the larger island of the dual-island nation of St. Kitts and Nevis one of the region's most sought-after destinations.
Best Hotels & Resorts
A guest suite at the Park Hyatt St. Kitts.<br>Credit: Courtesy of Hyatt
Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour
There's thoughtfulness in every detail at Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour, a 124-room luxury property that feels singular on the island. A backdrop of the golden sands of Banana Bay and uninterrupted views of Nevis ensure there's no bad room here—the honeymoon-worthy rooftop suites with plunge pools are particularly dreamy. A design-forward adults-only pool with dramatic stone arches mimics the architecture of the island's fortress and is hidden far from the kid-friendly amenities that have made this one of the best resorts for a family vacation in the Caribbean.
Koi Resort Saint Kitts, Curio Collection by Hilton
Tucked back from the island's more rugged and untouched Atlantic coast, Koi Resort Saint Kitts feels set apart and exclusive for a peaceful stay. The oceanfront here isn't swimmable, but the resort offers frequent shuttles to the nearby beaches on the Caribbean side of the island, giving guests the best of both worlds.
Belle Mont Sanctuary Resort
A collection of charming cottages and villas dot lush landscapes in the shadow of Mount Liamuiga at Belle Mont Sanctuary Resort. The island interior location is unexpected for a luxury property in the Caribbean, but it still delivers sweeping ocean views from almost every room. The resort's sugar mill-inspired eatery, The Kitchen, features a bar and chef's table tastings and pairing dinners, making it worth a visit even if you're staying elsewhere.
Sunset Reef St. Kitts
Skip the oversized resorts for a stay at Sunset Reef St. Kitts, a luxe boutique hotel with just 11 suites. The property got its start as a villa and still guards that intimate, private feel while providing thoughtful hotel amenities like a gym, a yoga deck, and in-room spa services.
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When planning your trip to St. Kitts, consider visiting between May and June for a combination of affordability and pleasant weather, as hotel and resort prices drop while the weather remains inviting. This timing also allows you to experience local events like the St. Kitts Music Festival.
Best Things to Do
Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park on St. Kitts.<br>Credit: Simon Crockett / Getty Images
Visit Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park.
A sprawling 40-acre UNESCO World Heritage site, Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park crowns a soaring island lookout with some of the best-preserved fortifications of their kind in the region. "The centuries-old fortress itself is impressive enough, but the views overlooking the island, the ocean, and neighboring Saba and Statia are arguably even more memorable," muses Juella Gumbs, Marketing Communications Manager of the Park Hyatt St. Kitts, of the island's most important historical attraction.
Sail around on a catamaran cruise.
Jump on a catamaran to cross "The Narrows" between St. Kitts and Nevis for a day spent anchoring at hidden cove beaches and secret snorkeling spots. Full-day cruises usually include a light lunch and a famous Killer Bee cocktail on one of Nevis' stunning northern shores like Oualie Beach or Pinney's Beach.
Take a tour with Greg's Safaris.
Travelers can "explore beyond the shore" with Greg's Safaris on adventurous backcountry island tours that cut through forest and coastline in open-sided, modified 4×4 Land Rovers. Curated itineraries across the island uncover the ruins of historic sugar mills, reveal Indigenous petroglyphs in untouched canyons, and trace hidden hiking trails, many of which Greg himself cut into the lush landscape.
Hike Mount Liamuiga.
At the heart of St. Kitts lies Mount Liamuiga, a slumbering stratovolcano coated with diverse rain forest and cloud forest ecosystems that make the four-hour strenuous hike to the top a constant adventure. An expansive crater at the summit and sweeping 360-degree views across the sea are well worth the effort it takes to reach the top.
Ride on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway.
If a volcano hike isn't quite your speed, the St. Kitts Scenic Railway is made for a more leisurely encounter with the island's natural beauty. Originally built to transport sugarcane, this double-decker train now traces a three-hour route across gorges, past historic sugar mills, and along the dramatic coastline for a top-to-bottom tour of St. Kitts.
Nightlife
The Strip on Frigate Bay
The island comes alive after sunset in Frigate Bay, where a collection of bars and restaurants transforms the beach into a live-music-fueled hot spot at night. The Strip is anchored by Mr. X's Shiggidy Shack, the ultimate toes-in-the-sand Caribbean beach bar that draws locals and visitors alike. A night isn't complete without trying a "Ting With a Sting" made from local sugarcane rum and grapefruit soda.
Best Restaurants
Restaurant on St. Kitts.<br>Credit: John Hancock Photography / Getty Images
Orchid Bay Beach House Restaurant
With a menu of classic Italian dishes, Orchid Bay Beach House Restaurant is an island favorite. Wood-fired pizza and handmade pasta pair perfectly with alfresco dining; thanks to the restaurant's dramatic cliffside location on the island's western coast, it's one of the best spots to enjoy a sunset.
Sprat Net Bar & Grill
Locals and visitors alike rave about Sprat Net Bar & Grill. "It's a little bit rustic, but in the best way," says Pereira of this fisherman-owned waterfront dive known for its family-style seafood feasts. Grilled red snapper and lobster are favorites, and live music sets the mood.
Serendipity
Island inspiration meets international cuisine at Serendipity, long considered a go-to for fine dining in Basseterre. The name feels supremely fitting for the location, a colorful Caribbean manor on a hilltop where guests can dine on a breezy patio overlooking the bay.
Marshall's
"[Chef Marshall] has been around for years, and he's gotten it right this whole time," says Gumbs of the chef at the eponymous Marshall's, perched on a hillside near Frigate Bay. The menu includes a mix of international cuisine with classic Caribbean flavors, and every local we spoke with recommended it.
Fisherman's Village
A casual coastal eatery at the Park Hyatt St. Kitts, Fisherman's Village highlights flavors from across the Caribbean and a divine selection of seafood. The contemporary overwater dining room frames views of Nevis, while an impressive cocktail menu elevates the oceanfront experience.
Areas to Visit
Landscape of St. Kitts.<br>Credit: NANCY PAUWELS / Getty Images
Basseterre
Basseterre is a Caribbean capital to be savored, not skipped. One of the most historic cities in the Caribbean, it is home to the National Museum of St. Kitts and landmarks like Independence Square and The Circus, with its emerald-green Victorian-era clock tower.
Caribbean Coast
The Caribbean side of the island is studded with the beautiful beaches and luxe resorts that make St. Kitts such a desirable destination with winter-weary visitors. Frigate Bay and Friars Bay are always worth a visit—skip Cockleshell Bay when cruise ships are in port, as it can get uncomfortably busy with disembarked passengers.
Atlantic Coast
Rent a car and drive down the less-visited Atlantic side of the island to escape the crowds. Though these wave-soaked shores aren't great for swimming, they reward visitors with stunning views of a more desolate, jagged coastline.
Island Interior
The unexpected highlight of a trip to St. Kitts is visiting the island's verdant interior. Embarking on a 4x4 expedition or hiking Mount Liamuiga is just the start; the culmination of the journey into the island's heart is an overnight stay at Belle Mont Sanctuary Resort.
Best Time to Visit
Cockleshell Bay, St. Kitts.<br>Credit: Westend61 / Getty Images
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Late November through mid-April is when St. Kitts enjoys the most beautiful weather, with warm temperatures and clear, sunny skies tempting the most visitors. For a nice mix of affordability and good weather, locals recommend visiting in May or June, when prices drop at most hotels and resorts, yet the weather remains pleasant.
Travel in June for the St. Kitts Music Festival, an annual three-day fete that brings local artists together with international stars representing a melange of genres, from R&B and soul to soca and calypso.
Though carnival festivities in St. Kitts are smaller than those on neighboring islands, the Sugar Mas Carnival is a colorful six-week celebration worth adding to your itinerary. Stretching from mid-December through the new year, it makes a busy travel season even busier, but offers a festive peek into some of the island's most beloved traditions.
How to Get There
Ballast Bay, St. Kitts.<br>Credit: PA Images via Getty Images
By Plane
St. Kitts is home to the busiest international airport in the dual-island nation, the Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport (SKB). Direct flights from Miami on American Airlines or New York on JetBlue are the easiest way to access the island. However, St. Kitts also connects to other major cities like Charlotte, Newark, and Atlanta seasonally.
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Connections to St. Kitts on regional airlines via other Caribbean islands like Puerto Rico, Antigua, and St. Martin are even more frequent. Travelers can also fly more seamlessly with Tradewind Aviation on private charter routes from Puerto Rico, St. Croix, and St. Thomas.
By Boat
Makana Ferry Service connects St. Kitts with the nearby islands of St. Martin, Statia (St. Eustatius), and Saba, making island hopping in the Caribbean easier than ever. "Service is...mostly just used by locals at this point, but travelers who want to explore more of the Caribbean will find it comfortable, convenient, and very professional," says Pereira.
How to Get Around
Basseterre on St. Kitts.<br>Credit: todamo / Getty Images
Taxi
There is one rideshare program on the island, but taxis may still be the easiest option for most travelers looking to explore. Rates are fixed, though it is always best to check the cost with the driver before embarking.
Car
Renting a car is the best way to explore the island more extensively. "St. Kitts has one main ring road around the island, so it's pretty easy to navigate," says Gumbs. It only takes about an hour to drive around the majority of the island. "Plus, it usually works out to be more affordable to rent a car for the day than taking taxis across the island."
Ferry or Water Taxi
Both ferries and water taxis connect St. Kitts and Nevis, making Nevis an easy and affordable day trip destination. Passenger ferries depart frequently from Basseterre, while water taxis depart from the dock at Reggae Beach on the southern tip of the island.
