A World Cup eSIM is the smartest thing you’ll pack for the 2026 FIFA World Cup — the first tournament ever to span three countries simultaneously. The USA, Canada, and Mexico are co-hosting 48 nations across 16 cities this summer, which means millions of fans face a genuinely new challenge: crossing international borders, smartphone in hand, without coming home to a roaming bill that costs more than the flights.

The solution is simple. A travel eSIM connects your phone to a local network the moment you land — no physical SIM to swap, no carrier kiosk queues at a foreign airport, no daily data caps eating into your budget on match day. Buy it online, activate it with a QR code, and arrive connected.

At a glance: The FIFA World Cup 2026 runs from 11 June to 19 July 2026. Host cities span the USA (11 cities), Canada (2 cities) and Mexico (3 cities). You’ll need a separate World Cup eSIM for each country — they’re country-specific — but each plan is inexpensive, digital, and activates in minutes.

We’ve pulled together every plan tier, price, and special offer across all three host nations so you can pick the right data plan before you fly and also added a handy little widget from Breeze eSIM below.

Why a World Cup eSIM Beats Standard Roaming

Standard international roaming with a mainstream carrier can cost $10–$15 per day in the USA alone. Over a three-week World Cup trip across all three host nations, you’re looking at $400+ just to keep your phone working normally. A dedicated World Cup eSIM plan brings that same connectivity down to a fraction of the cost — often less than the price of a stadium hot dog per day.

Stadium Wi-Fi is worth addressing too. With 60,000+ fans simultaneously trying to post that goal celebration, shared venue networks buckle under the pressure. A personal eSIM data plan runs independently — reliable enough to navigate, stream, coordinate with friends, and actually use your phone during the match.

Does My Phone Support eSIM?

Most smartphones released since 2018 are eSIM-compatible: all iPhones from XS onwards, Samsung Galaxy S21 and later, Google Pixel 3 and newer, and most current Android flagships. Use the Check Compatibility button on any plan page — it confirms your exact model in about 20 seconds. If your phone supports dual-SIM (most modern handsets do), your home SIM stays active for calls while your travel eSIM handles all data. No number changes. No missed calls.

World Cup eSIM — United States 🇺🇸

New York/NJ  ·  Los Angeles  ·  Dallas  ·  SF Bay Area  ·  Seattle  ·  Kansas City  ·  Boston  ·  Philadelphia  ·  Atlanta  ·  Miami  ·  Houston

High-speed data across all 11 USA host cities, up to 5G where available. Fixed plans give you a total data allowance for your trip — not a daily cap — so you can use it exactly when you need it most.

Fixed total allowance — not a daily cap. 5G where available.

Instant activation  ·  No roaming fees  ·  5G where available

Covering multiple USA host cities? The 20 GB or 30 GB plans are the sweet spot for most fans. The 50 GB special offer at $40.99 (was $58) is the one to grab if you’re hotspot-sharing or streaming every highlight along the way.

World Cup eSIM — Canada 🇨🇦

Toronto (BMO Field)  ·  Vancouver (BC Place)

Canada hosts matches in Toronto and Vancouver — two of North America’s best-connected cities. High-speed data up to 5G where available. Buy two or more plans and save 10%.

Save 10% when buying two or more plans. Fixed total allowance — not a daily cap.

Instant activation  ·  10% off 2+ plans  ·  No roaming fees

Covering both Toronto and Vancouver? A 15 GB to 20 GB plan covers you comfortably. Travelling as a group? Buy together and bank the 10% multi-plan saving before anyone checks out separately.

World Cup eSIM — Mexico 🇲🇽

Mexico City (Estadio Azteca)  ·  Guadalajara  ·  Monterrey

Three iconic football cities, including the legendary Estadio Azteca. Mexico plans come stacked with special offers across almost every tier — making this the best-value eSIM of the three host nations.

Fixed total allowance — not a daily cap. 5G where available.

Instant activation  ·  Massive special offer savings  ·  No roaming fees

Mexico’s special offers are genuinely striking. The 50 GB plan drops from $119 to $48.99. The 20 GB plan falls from $55 to $22.99. Even the entry tiers are discounted. No other host nation comes close on value.

Which World Cup eSIM Plan Is Right for Your Trip?

7–10 day trip, one host city
5 GB to 10 GB covers maps, messaging, social media, and streaming highlights without watching your usage.

2–3 week trip, one country
15 GB to 25 GB handles daily navigation, WhatsApp groups, Instagram, and video calls home without rationing.

Full tournament, multiple countries
Get a separate World Cup eSIM for each country. 20 GB+ per country — 30–50 GB for the USA given the distances between host cities.

Heavy users and group hotspot sharing
50 GB to 100 GB. Special offer tiers give the best cost-per-GB — especially Mexico and USA.

The cost difference between a 20 GB and 50 GB plan is typically less than a single day of carrier roaming. Going one tier higher than you think you’ll need is almost always the right call.

How to Set Up Your World Cup eSIM — 5 Minutes, Done

1. Check compatibility — visit any plan page and tap Check Compatibility. Confirms your phone model in about 20 seconds.
2. Choose your plan — select your destination country and data tier, then check out. Your QR code arrives by email within minutes.
3. Scan the QR code — go to Settings → Mobile/Cellular → Add eSIM on your phone, then scan. The eSIM installs instantly.
4. Set your travel eSIM as the data SIM — your phone asks which SIM to use for data. Select your new plan. Your home SIM stays active for calls.
5. Land and connect — your plan activates the moment you arrive. No queues, no kiosks, no faff.

Pro tip: Activate your eSIM at home on Wi-Fi before you fly. It takes 60 seconds and means you land already connected — no scrambling for signal in the arrivals hall after a long flight.

World Cup eSIM — Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a separate World Cup eSIM for each host country?

Yes. eSIM plans are country-specific, so you need one for the USA, one for Canada, and one for Mexico if visiting all three. The upside: modern phones store multiple eSIMs simultaneously. Switch between them as you cross borders — each plan only counts down when it’s the active data SIM.

Will a World Cup eSIM work inside stadiums during matches?

Yes. An eSIM connects to the local carrier network — entirely separate from any stadium Wi-Fi. With 60,000+ fans on one venue network at peak moments, a personal eSIM plan is significantly more reliable for posting, streaming, and navigating match day.

When should I buy my World Cup eSIM?

Before you travel. Buying in advance lets you activate at home on Wi-Fi and arrive connected from the moment you land. There’s no benefit to waiting and real cost to forgetting.

Can I keep my regular number active while using a travel eSIM?

Yes, if your phone supports dual-SIM (most modern flagships do). Your home SIM handles calls and texts. Your travel eSIM handles data. Friends reach you on your normal number while you benefit from local data rates.

What if I run out of data during the tournament?

You can purchase a top-up from your account at any time — it’s all digital, nothing physical to swap. Adding data takes a few minutes from your phone, wherever you are.

Do World Cup eSIM plans support 5G?

Yes — all plans support data up to 5G where available. All major World Cup host cities in the USA, Canada, and Mexico have 5G infrastructure across urban areas and stadium districts.

The Verdict

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is a once-in-a-generation event across three brilliant countries. The football will be extraordinary. The last thing you want is a connectivity problem taking your focus away from any of it.

A World Cup eSIM is the effortless fix: buy before you fly, activate in minutes, arrive connected. Plans from $3.99, deep special offers across all three host nations, zero roaming bills. If you’re making the trip, this is a no-brainer.

🇺🇸 USA eSIM

🇨🇦 Canada eSIM

🇲🇽 Mexico eSIM

Instant activation  ·  Plans from $3.99  ·  No roaming fees  ·  5G where available

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. CRISP may earn a commission if you purchase through these links at no extra cost to you. Pricing sourced directly and accurately at time of publication (April 2026) — verify current pricing on the plan pages before purchasing.

Full eSIM Store

Craig Peterson

The post World Cup eSIM 2026: USA, Canada & Mexico appeared first on CRISP..

If you’ve been on social media recently getting ready for a trip, you would have no doubt seen the Airback Backpack pop up on your feed with its innovative vacuum packing system.

The company, based out of Amsterdam, is known for its dedication to blending functionality and convenience and the Airback backpack specialises in creating luggage that simplifies the travel experience. With patented features like a vacuum compression system and smart compartmentalisation, they focus on helping travellers maximize packing efficiency without sacrificing comfort or style.

After taking the Airback Bag with Weight Handle for a spin on two recent trips, I can confidently say this bag embodies everything Airback stands for. Innovation, quality, and traveller-focused design.

Design and Build Quality

First impressions matter, and the Airback Bag delivers. Its sleek, modern design and robust materials strike a perfect balance between style and durability. Whether you’re hopping between cities or embarking on an outdoor adventure, this bag feels built to last. The water-resistant fabric keeps your belongings safe from sudden downpours, and the extra strong and well built zippers glide smoothly. A small but crucial detail for frequent travellers.

When first inspecting the bag, the zippers and clips were the one part of the design, we were a bit hesitant about before using the product. Given the nature of the bags purpose, there would have been a lot of stress being put on it however it’s safe to say we put it through some hardcore packing and it passed the test without breaking.

There are so many clever inclusions that Airback have taken into account when designing this bag. The front quick pocket is a gamechanger for putting all of your items that need quick access and a tiny detail we loved is the quick key clip. Just leave this on your set of keys and clip them right on.

The hidden passport pocket is conveniently placed on the back of the backpack for quick access and extra security and is also big enough to slip in your mobile phone.

Inside there is a section to connect your power bank which can be charged from the outside of your bag and accepts both USB A and C.

Laptops and electronics have their own section that separates themselves from your weekend packing and each has its own compartment for notebooks, tablets and laptops, all of which carry more than adequate padding for protection. Rest assured you can throw this bag around and you’ll be ok.

Each bag also comes with its TSA approved locked to ensure nobody can get into easily if you did ever want to check the bag in or had to leave it unattended in an emergency.

Vacuum Packing / No More Extra Luggage Fees

One of the most surprising aspects of the Airback Bag is how much it can hold without exceeding airline carry-on limits. Thanks to its spacious main compartment and clever use of space, you can pack for a whole weekend—or even longer—without needing an additional suitcase.

The built-in vacuum compression system allows you to reduce the volume of clothing, freeing up space for other essentials while ensuring you remain within airline weight limits.

Some of you may not be strangers to vacuum bags when packing suitcases and have probably experienced them ripping or letting in air over time. That’s not the case with Airback’s design. Its zip and vacuum seal takes a surprising amount of effort to open and close which mirrors the build quality of the rest of the bag, and whilst the vacuum bag itself may look small, you can really get into every corner to pack it to the brim.

To make the most out of the space, we found the best things to pack would be softer bulky items like sweatshirts and knitwear and then pack the corners with your t-shirts etc.

With this bag, overpacking doesn’t lead to unexpected fees at the check-in counter, saving you money and stress.

Confession, I did get stopped an one easyjet flight when boarding and got asked to put my back into their bag check frame and just about passed the test for a heavily loaded bag and took me around 3 tries to really push it in. Keep this in mind for other airlines for sure.

The Weight Handle: A Stroke of Genius

What truly sets this bag apart is its weight handle feature. No more guessing whether your carry-on will pass airport weight checks! The integrated weight handle gives a quick and accurate reading, making it invaluable for frequent flyers juggling weight restrictions or souvenir-loving shoppers.

The Air Pump: Custom Comfort

Adding to its innovation, the Airback Bag comes with an optional air pump. The pump itself comes with its very own carry case and charger and can easily fit into any pocket in the bag. It’s also charged via a USB so you’ll be able to inflate and deflate with ease and whats more it even comes with attachments if you ever needed to quickly blow up a swimming float whilst away.

Comfort and Functionality

Beyond its signature features, the Airback Bag offers everyday practicality. Ergonomic, padded shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel ensure comfort, even on long treks. Inside, the bag excels in organization, with compartments for everything: a laptop sleeve, hidden pockets for valuables, and easy-access sections for travel essentials.

Why Travelers Will Love It

• Smart Packing: The expandable, compression-ready main compartment adapts to your needs, making overpacking a thing of the past.

• Compact: Despite its advanced features, the Airback Bag remains fairly compact and travel-friendly and can still fit under the seat in front of you.

• Expandable Capacity and Organisation: Adjustable from 22 to 48 litres, the backpack includes multiple compartments for meticulous organization, ensuring easy access and tidiness.

• Universal Appeal: Perfect for every traveller, from backpackers to business professionals.

• Custom Comfort: The air pump ensures tailored support, reducing fatigue.

Final Thoughts

The Airback Bag with Weight Handle and it’s pump is more than a backpack—it’s a travel companion. Airback’s dedication to innovation shines through in every detail, offering travellers the tools to pack smarter, travel lighter, and move more comfortably.

For those seeking stress-free adventures, the Airback Bag earns a well-deserved spot on your packing list. Whilst some may find it pricey at over £200 you can rest assured you’ll definitely be making that money back having saved it on additional baggage fees for weekend trips.

Visit the Airback site now for its Christmas sales and get 20% Off the bag and items.

Craig Peterson

The post Airback Backpack Review appeared first on CRISP..

Here’s our pick of eight of the best spots in New York to rest, relax and take up temporary residence.

1) The Standard, High Line

Definitely one of the most arresting sights on the New York skyline, this stylish boutique hotel located in the Meatpacking District looms above the elevated former train tracks that give it its name.

Luxurious rooms (like the Hudson Studio above), ridiculous views thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows in each suite, it’s a unique intersection of retro charm and minimal modernism – the Standard is the epitome of New York cool.

2) The Roxy Hotel Tribeca

Oozing a 70s retro charm all its own, the Roxy wins the prize for most artsy. Smashing together Art Deco and Regency design amongst a modern setting, this 6th Street residence gives a novel experience for those so inclined as well as with a few dollars to spare.

The deluxe three-bedroom suite (pictured above) boasts nine-foot ceilings, three sleeping areas and access to a TEAC turntable with the hotel’s personal vinyl collection to hear some classic tunes in the way God intended.

3) Gansevoort Meatpacking

Tussling with The Standard for ultra-lux modernism in the Meatpacking District, this Gansevoort hotel underwent a drastic refurb just a few years ago, since cementing itself as one of the most opulent and attractive stays in Manhattan.

Complete with rooftop pool, 360-degree panoramic views of the New York skyline and 186 spacious rooms – many complete with balconies for outdoor dining – it offers the utmost in celeb-grade amenities and Instagrammable vistas.

4) Sofitel New York

New York by way of Parisian chic – the Sofitel is perfect for those looking to take their business-class Amercian experience one level higher.

Boasting easy reach to Manhattan’s most celebrated attractions, you may not even want to venture outside given the incredible amount of amenities and level of craft bestowed on every one of its 398 rooms.

With an on-site brasserie, a taste for the flamboyant in terms of interior decor and attention down to the finest detail, Sofitel certainly wears its century-long French heritage with pride.

5) Arlo NoMad

Easily taking our place in this list as the choice for the discerning hipster, this self-styled ‘homebase for the urban explorer’ takes the premise of ultra-modernity to lend each of its 250 rooms an AirBnB vibe filled with custom furniture, bespoke living spaces and quaint touches.

Proof that you can have both the comfort and relaxed atmosphere of an apartment with the luxury, amenities and convenience of a modern hotel, this one wins the award for showcasing the new wave of residential experiences for young holidaymakers.

Why not have both?

6) Mandarin Oriental New York

The textbook definition of a 5* hotel experience, the Mandarin does it all to perfection.

Proposing to offer the ultimate in service, comfort and style, this is a hotel that knows what it means to be a traditional, upmarket establishment that nails the core and lends the flourishes to take it that extra mile.

Gracious staff, impeccable decor, flawless views of the New York skyline and an incredible on-site restaurant in Asiate.

Not quite Heston as per the London Mandarin…but it’s close.

7) The Plaza

A New York icon.

It’s on the corner of 5th Avenue and Central Park South.

It’s near to both Bergdorf Goodman and Barney’s.

It’s the hotel from Home Alone 2.

Not only is it the hotel from Home Alone 2, but they also do a ‘hotel vacation package’ to recreate the entire experience, including a stay in the Royal Plaza Suite.

8) The Beekman

Nestled in Lower Manhattan amongst the key financial institutions in the Banking District, this hotel is renowned for its architectural splendour due to its nine-story atrium and pyramid-shaped skylight making for a memorable first impression.

Steeped in vintage glamour and elegance, each of the Beekman’s 285 rooms marry history with a sense of class that few can match.

Ella-Grace Figueroa

The post Eight Of The Best Luxury Hotels In New York City appeared first on CRISP..

As every delay in lockdown happens our innate need to travel just continues to heighten and with that comes fresh wardrobes, grooming and everything in between. This year is the year we all make it count.

One particular product we’ve been particularly interested in is Luggage, I mean your for most of us your holiday starts before you even get to the airport, right? 

Your luggage is an essential travel item and an investment. Often overlooked by many as an afterthought, your luggage should last you years and so it really should be a considered purchase.

So what makes a good piece of luggage?

Is it practical? How long do you expect it to last? What kind of travelling do we do? Does it represent your personality? These are just some of the questions we’ve asked ourselves when handpicking our favourites for Summer 2021

Rimowa Original ‘Cabin’

Available at Rimowa for £820

Can you even have a “best luggage” list without the iconic Rimowa Cabin? Its aluminium shell with longitudinal ribbing is known the world over and its lightweight design is a great example of craftsmanship and innovation.

The Rimowa Cabin also comes with a complimentary leather luggage tag and sticker set.

Away Travel ‘The Carry-on’ With Battery

Available at Away Travel for £215

Minimal design, a durable Polycarbonate shell and 360 spinners make the Away ‘Carry-on’ much like other smaller suitcases on the market except this one has one trick up its sleeve, this suitcase has a hidden and easy to reach 37watt lithium removal battery so you always have juice on hand. Dont stress either, its fully TSA approved to take onto flights.

OGIO ‘Convoy 520 Spinner’ + ‘320’ Backpack

Available at OGIO Europe for £229

If you’re looking for versatility then look no further. The OGIO 520s is about as deceiving as it gets with the amount of space and pockets it has.

This spinner is packed with clever and innovative ideas to maximise its usability. Middle zippers enable you to use to compartments inside to effectively separate it into two and the two front pockets give you even more space to load up for the weekend.

OGIO 520 also enables you to use its innovative mod packs to further your space and furthermore you can slide a 320 Backpack onto the handles when paired together.

Samsonite ‘Lite-Shock’

Available at Samsonite for £227.50

At 1.7kg the Lite Shock from Samsonite is light enough to throw around but hard enough to take a beating. Oozing with design with a horizontal ribcage and minimalist T-bar handle, the Lite-Shock is a certy. If that wasn’t enough, how about a 10 year global warranty? Nice.

Montblanc ‘#MY4810 Cabin Trolley with front pocket’

Available at Montblanc for £680

Compact, luxurious and lightweight, the Montblanc is an excellent choice for a frequent flyer. Made out of a polycarbonate shell well leather trims, the Cabin Trolley is an excellent long term investment. The Montblanc emblem is centered by their artisans we love the bold branding on the newer version with a front pocket. Perfect for laptops.

Globetrotter ‘Centenary’

Available at Mr Porter for £1,385

Can you get more iconic than the Globe Trotter? To mark 100 years of the brand and the journeys its been on, Globe-Trotter has released its centenary collection.

It features a Vulcanized fibreboard and legendary leather corners and trims. It comes in a multitude of new colours and you have any change left over you can even customise it for another £125 on top.  Why not eh?

All suitcases above are TSA approved with locks and will fit on most overhead cabins.

Ella-Grace Figueroa

The post CRISP. Travel : Best Carry On Luggage 2021 appeared first on CRISP..

This week’s travel guide takes a look at the best bars in Barcelona, in particular around the neighbourhood of Raval. Previously the red light district of the city, this area gets a bad rep amongst some of the locals who only remember it for its hub of seedy and illegal happenings back in the 20s (yes, that was a century ago) and less so for its recent cultural re-birth. 

Part of the Ciutat Vella (Old City) and home to Barcelona’s oldest church, the museum of Modern Art and an endless array of boutique shops, bars and restaurants, the district of Raval is a fantastic place to visit for a dose of great culture, food and shopping. Often overshadowed by the more touristy areas like Born and Gotico, Raval boasts the same picturesque facade as its neighbours but with much fewer crowds.

Read our guide to ‘baring’ like a local in Raval to find out more. 

Bar muy Buenas

Carrer del Carme, 63, 08001 Barcelona

One of the few bars where you feel obliged to sample one of their more expensive cocktail mixes as opposed to the local Vermouth. Restaurant in the back, speak-easy style bar in the front, this local spot offers an extensive array of spirits and concoctions to tingle your taste buds. In contrast to its menu, this is a lowkey spot with casual bar seating perfect for midweek date night or friendly catch-up. 

El Jardi

Carrer de l’Hospital, 56, 08001 Barcelona

Set outside in the picturesque square of an old hospital, this outdoor gem is perfect for a large glass of Aperol underneath the Spanish sun. With more than just drinks on the menu, you can order one of their seasonal sharing dishes or salads to enjoy as you people watch from afar. 

33/45 Bar & Gallery

Carrer de Joaquín Costa, 4, 08001 Barcelona

This modern bar and exhibition space is a favourite spot for the city’s many creatives and freelancers who come here to enjoy live music, DJ sets and a buzzing atmosphere throughout the weekend. With its Berlin-esque interiors, this is one of Raval’s busiests spots. 

Kalso Bar 

Carrer de Guàrdia, 10, 08001 Barcelona

A hidden treasure. Located above a small gallery and print design store, this tiny bar looks like it could be a part of the exhibition with its neon lighting. Run by friendly staff who know their drinks, this is a great spot for a chilled hangout. 

Bar Lobo

Carrer del Pintor Fortuny, 3, 08001 Barcelona

This local spot looks like it has been pulled straight out of Shoreditch and placed into the winding back streets of Barcelona. Just steps away from the Rambla, this bar boasts contemporary interiors and an incredible outdoor terrace to enjoy local wine paired with traditional tapas dishes.

Barcentral

Carrer d’Elisabets, 6, 08001 Barcelona

Bookshop, garden, cafe and bar, this versatile spot is tucked away in another of Barcelona’s historic buildings. With two separate terrace areas, this is the perfect place to enjoy a glass of rose outside in a small oasis away from the bustling city streets. 

Tropico

Carrer de la Paloma, 19, 08001 Barcelona

Raval is full of interesting and quirky bars to visit and Tropico is not one to be missed. A mix of eclectic furniture, hanging lights and plants, the atmosphere at this bar is as vibrant as its interiors. From Thursday onwards the place is packed with diverse crowds enjoying local beer and vermouth. 

Two Schmucks

Carrer de Joaquín Costa, 52, 08001 Barcelona

In the words of its owners; ‘this bar serves serious cocktails but in a relaxed & fun-filled manner’. Situated around the corner from Barcelona’s Contemporary Museum of Art, this unusual spot is arguably one of the most welcoming bars in the area. If open arms and an extensive cocktail menu aren’t enough to entice you in, admire their cheeky signage from outside. 

Eloise Martin

Instagram – @eloiseemartinn

The post CRISP. Travel : Best Bars in Barcelona appeared first on CRISP..

It’s not every day you find yourself reporting from the confines of your apartment by decree. 

Whilst this trend is slowly sweeping across the globe with countries such as Spain, Italy and France now officially on lockdown, CRISP. Mag reports from the centre of Barcelona on what could be expected for the U.K. in a matter of days. 

The Prime Minister’s lockdown announcement came early on Saturday evening, but we were blissfully unaware celebrating a friend’s birthday from the privacy of our own apartment over dinner and drinks. Having put our phones away to escape the constant bombardment of daunting news updates, we believed that measurements would be put into place come Monday to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in Spain.

It was still fairly early in the night when we heard a loud thud at our front door that shocked us all into silence. Upon opening the door we discovered two policemen who told us that we were ‘gathering illegally’ as it was past 9pm and that ‘our beloved Prime Minister’ had declared a state of alarm due to which everyone (all five of our guests) was required to leave and go to the confines of their own homes immediately. 

As our guests left, it felt as though this was an unnecessary authoritarian approach by the police which we have seen an increase as the days of lockdown have gone on. Not only do the police now question your motives for leaving your apartment (you are only to leave for emergencies, food and pharmacy trips), but they are using drones, cars and megaphones to scare people off the streets whilst also implementing fines (with up to a year in prison), and taping off public spaces like beaches and parks. Today they also announced that they will be deploying military officials across the country. 

With the closure of most businesses and public spaces, it has felt emptier than usual. Being forced to stick to our barrios (Barcelona is divided into different areas called ‘barrios’), means that there has not been the same erratic supermarket and stockpiling behaviour we have seen broadcasted from other areas of the world. People must shop at the places around them instead. 

Contrary to the above, these extreme government measures are not reflected in the mood of the people. Yesterday we managed to walk up to the park for an hour or so where people walk their dogs, and to the local shops in our area without any problems. This sort of mental calmness is crucial in times of crisis. 

Residents here are taking precaution and sensible measures, many wear masks in the street. Those who are unwell are staying at home, and those who are well are ensuring that some kind of normality still goes on each day. 

The biggest concern is for the many small businesses around the city who rely on footfall in order to survive. They have been closed for almost 4 days now with no clear sign of when they will be permitted to re-open. The minister of transport, José Luis Ábalos, has announced today that closures may go on for more than the originally suggested 15 days in order to tackle the outbreak. Despite this update, there has been no clear information as to whether these businesses will see some kind of financial compensation for their forced closures. 

In a country of around 47 million people, Madrid has been worst hit by the outbreak with many social media influencers trending the hashtag #yomequedoencasa to encourage their followers to stay at home. With sources telling us that they have already lost their jobs and face serious financial hardships, they feel there is a real lack of sympathy and compensation for those who simply cannot just ‘stay at home’ in order to survive. 

Experiencing a lockdown first hand is not as dramatic as it is perceived to be on social media. We applaud every day at 8pm to give thanks to the health workers who help to save lives every single day, especially during this outbreak. There is no need to instil fear in countries who have not implemented a lockdown, the U.K. government is working with leading scientists and health officials who are following the outbreak closely and monitoring the country to do what is best for everyone. 

Remember that if you still can; support your local business, turn off your notifications and practice mindfulness (whether that is going to yoga, listening to a podcast), spend time outside, and live in the present. 

Take care to wash your hands regularly, stay at home if you feel unwell and follow all other government guidelines and updates for COVID-19. 

Eloise Martin

Instagram – @eloiseemartinn

The post Coronavirus : Life On Lockdown appeared first on CRISP..

Okay, so we may have just returned from Magnetic Fields Festival in India, but when CRISP. Mag discovered that Beat-nik inspired stage, Beat Hotel, were selling tickets to their own soiree in beautiful Marrakech, we couldn’t help but book a trip to dance underneath the midday sun to the sound of our beloved artists.

Whilst we can’t wait to get out there and share the experience with our readers in March, today the CRISP. Mag team share their top 5 reasons as to why holiday makers should boycott the conventional and turn to the world’s smaller and more hidden music festivals this year.

Discovery

In the mesmerising words of E.A. Bucchianeri; ‘it’s the unknown that draws people’ and that’s exactly what makes these new, hidden festivals so exciting. We suggest you ditch the crowds heading to Croatia each year, and put some time and effort into finding somewhere new. Wherever we travel, CRISP. Mag keeps up with as many friends as possible in the festival scene to share the latest on new arrivals with our readers. The fresher the festival, the better. Cymbal is India’s newest festival in Gwalior which will debut this year with renowned partners like Cercle to bring punters the best of electronic music. Dates TBC, everything is very under wraps at the moment but you can sign up to their newsletter and be the first to know more (you’re welcome).

https://www.facebook.com/CymbalFestival/videos/931003587301640/

Freedom

We understand that not everyone has the time to travel as far as Asia, which is why smaller boutique festivals should be on your radar. Popping up all over the world, there is sure to be one closer than you think. One of CRISP. Mag’s favourites, Kala, is set on the stunning coast of Albania where tickets, accommodation and travel are kept from inflating by the organisers to make this festival a fair and accessible experience for many. Put off by the airmiles? Why not stay local to the U.K. and enjoy teeny tiny Cosmic Roots festival in Norfolk. Split the cost of a camper van, bottles of beer, and plentiful snacks for a much more intimate practice to power your East Anglian aura.

Company

Whether a solo-goer or group gathering, these bespoke and profound experiences give like-minded souls a chance to mingle outside the social constraints of everyday reality. Take the opportunity to swap small talk in foreign bars, with forming transformative friendships. It’s easy to let the all-consuming digital world path out a life of online relationships, but once we enter a no-phone zone (i.e. do you ever get good signal at a festival?!), we can surprise ourselves at how much more rewarding raw and unexpected human interaction can be.

Serendipity 

…and no, we are not talking about Peter Chelsom’s widely watched rom-com. We mean it in the sense of accidentally discovering new upcoming artists, genres and destinations. Bookers keep it fluid and niche for smaller festivals which often means it’s likely you’ll discover and love many new artists you’d never heard of before. One of the risks with bigger, commercial festivals is that there are so many artists playing you systematically trudge from one specific stage to another to catch planned acts with not much element of surprise. Perhaps you never considered the Bulgarian countryside, but fall in love with it after attending Meadows in the Mountains. There’s every chance you’d heard of the headliner, but your favourite act of the festival doesn’t even end up being on Spotify. Anything is possible in these carefully curated celebrations of the arts.

Holiday

The final (and most important) reason. What could be better than combining new cuisines, weather, and landscapes with one big party? We can’t wait to sit by a pool in the sun whilst Floating Points nurture our ears and lamb tagine tingles our taste buds at Beat Hotel in March. 

So wherever you’re planning to head this year, be curious and explore one of the many exciting and enriching festival experiences available for 2020.

Eloise Martin

Instagram – @eloiseemartinn

The post CRISP. Travel : Why “Festidays” Are All The Rage Right Now appeared first on CRISP..

With 7,641 islands, the Philippines has become a hotspot for adventure seekers and beach bums alike, but where to go from Manila airport we hear you cry?! Fear not, CRISP. has tried and tested some of the best spots to help you navigate one of the world’s largest archipelagos.

Where to start?

When booking your flight from the U.K to the Philippines look to arrive at Manila airport, it is by far the biggest airport in the Philippines offering the best connection options to get you around the mainland and islands (but more on that later). Set up alerts with Skyscanner or Jack’s Flight Club to snap up the best deals. 

Whilst Manila is not the beach paradise we’ve seen on every blogger’s Instagram page, do not overlook this city. It is a thriving mecca for food and Philippino culture offering cosmopolitan areas like Little Tokyo and Manila Bay paired with delicious dining experiences at Ministry of Crab and Milkyway cafe.

If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, Azumi Boutique Hotel (luxe but eco-friendly), is a world away from the corporate hotels sprawled across the city. For travelers on a budget, Lub D is a tried and tested destination by the CRISP. team! This is a Tokyo-inspired hostel offering private and shared dorms and boasting an impressive restaurant and cafe which overlooks the city.

Our top tip for when you arrive in Manila is to download the Grab ride-hailing app. This will allow you to travel around the city safely, easily and cheaply!

Where to go?

Whilst CRISP. didn’t have enough time to travel around over 7000 islands, we did shortlist our favourites to give you an idea of what to expect.

Cebu and Bohol

Again, we haven’t quite reached beach paradise but it is a good start, Cebu is easy to get to from Manila via car or bus, and from here you can catch a regular ferry from the port at Cebu (granted there isn’t a typhoon which is what happened to us.) 

Stay in Murals Hostel for a cozy scandi-inspired environment and a cool co-working space. Enjoy their open lounge as you sip a glass of wine and play board games until the storm passes. Likewise, you can opt to stay in the very overstated Henry Hotel which boasts a unique experience in its (very) quirky four walls.

Catching the ferry from Cebu to Bohol is straightforward and once you’re there you can expect visits to the chocolate hills, caving, river-boating, jungle treks, paddle boarding, and wildlife spotting. Choose to stay in Eco Hotel Bohol and enjoy individual huts in the middle of stunning scenery for a unique and conscious lodging experience. To fuel your day of activities you can grab food at some of our favourite spots; Tamper Coffee & Brunch, Mosia Cafe, Tablea de Maria Clara, Food & Fables, Smoque Bistro.

Siquijor

Oceanjet operates the ferry that can transport you from Bohol to Siquijor, it leaves each day from Tagbilaran Port at 10:20 and takes just over an hour. Siquijor was one of our very favourite islands to visit. 

Filled with white sandy beaches, waterfalls and ambience, this is the perfect place to relax and enjoy island life. 

If you’re after budget accommodation with breathtaking views of the sunset opt for Jungle of Peace – we enjoyed sipping on daily cocktails from the planty outdoor bar. There is also the stunning Ustory Bungalows which are located directly on the beach. Our top tip for when you arrive here is to rent a bike to easily make your way around this tiny island paradise. 

With so many amazing bars and restaurants to choose from here, it was difficult to pick just a few. Make sure you check out; Monkey Business, Dagsa (the best place to eat a traditional Boodle Fight), Salamandas Restaurant, Twenty4, Dolce Amore.

El Nido

Whilst Palawan is one of the Philippine’s most touristy islands, it is still worth a visit for day trips to secluded beaches and giant lagoons. Take note that once arriving at the main airport on the island, there is a 6-hour drive from the airport to El Nido.

In true CRISP. style, we wanted to exhaust all of the accommodation options available for the duration of the trip, so this time we opted for Airbnb. There are plenty of stylish options for all kinds of travelers and budgets with hidden gems well-kept in the narrow little streets of El Nido.

With an abundance of stunning cafes, restaurants and bars you won’t be short of places to eat & drink. Make sure you pay a visit to CRISP. Mag’s very favourite Maremegmeg Beach Bar for smooth sunset DJ vibes or a dip in its sister property’s infinity pool (MBC El Nido). Watch the sun go down at Panorama Bar whilst sipping on cocktails or enjoy wholesome yoga & brunch from a real-life treehouse; The bird House.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture or relaxation, consider Philippines as your next tropical destination for 2020.

The CRISP. Map of the Philippines

All of our Points of Interest mentioned above can be found in a handy map below. Enjoy! 🙂

Eloise Martin

Instagram – @eloiseemartinn

The post CRISP. Travel : A Two Week Guide To The Philippines appeared first on CRISP..

It all started with my friend mentioning that there was this majestic festival called Magnetic Fields in the Rajasthan desert, India, where renowned DJs play for a fortunate handful of ticket holders in a beautiful oasis overlooked by the palace of Alsisar. 

 I mean, she didn’t quite describe it like that but the fact that it was small, boutique and based in India was enough to convince us to go.

 Having always wanted to travel to India, this was the perfect way to start the trip – watching our favourite artists (including Maribou State, Palms Trax, Kamma & Masalo) play in the land of the kings. 

 Stepping off the plane into smog-covered Delhi we weren’t sure what to expect. We’d missed the last of the luxury bedouin tent bookings and were relying on a kind stranger to let us crash in a shared ‘homestay’ room for the weekend. 

 The morning of the first day of the festival, we hopped into a taxi (easily booked through the festival website), and began the 7-hour drive to Alsisar. As we drove through tiny rural villages and picturesque Rajasthan farmland, we were getting very excited about the fact that we were finally in India and on our way! 

 Villages faded into the distance and we were more remote than ever, with grey clouds looming above us in the sky. Normally the desert is hot at this time of year (apparently, we were very unlucky with the weather). Alas, this didn’t dampen our mood and after a bit of back-and-forth in the taxi we made it to our accommodation. 

Okay – there’s no sugarcoating it, we should have been more prepared and snapped up a bedouin tent, this was extremely basic, a little bit dirty and lacked a shower (a bucket of boiling hot water was brought to us on demand). Despite this, we did have an amazing roommate from the North of India who showed us the ropes and took us up to our first visit to the palace. 

 Magnetic Fields is like nothing you’ve ever experienced before! With few westerners around, it houses some of India’s most elite and music-savvy punters who come here to enjoy the incredible setting of the palace, amazing food stalls and a star-studded lineup (no expenses spared).

Expect to walk past cattle and Lamborghini’s in the carpark and watch as two very different words collide for this three day spectacle.

 The music gets going in the afternoon with different hideaway stages around the palace showcasing various types of music (mostly electronic) – from the dungeon, to the poolside courtyard, to the rooftop – each stage has been well thought out, dressed up, and sound-checked to offer a flawless festival experience.

 There is also a field below the palace that boasts the Ray-Ban Desert Oasis stage, further food stalls, souk market, a wellness spa, beauty parlour, talks and various chill-out zones. It is also where they keep a tiny disco tent that keeps going until the early hours (and where we kept finding ourselves ending up). 

 Bonfires are lit all around the palace at night to keep warm because, believe us, it gets freezing. Cold aside, the atmosphere is buzzing until 8am each morning, everyone gets dressed up in their best North Face jacket, favourite bum-bag and designer sunglasses to party hard.

If you can keep going until 10am you’ll also find a host of secret ‘afters’ around the place too. 

 Whilst the festival is curated to perfection, there is also the rustic side of the Alsisar countryside that sees herds of goats and cows chilling around the festival site, camels carrying luggage to people’s tents and local vendors in the streets outside the site. 

 The crowd were amazing and the town residents welcoming to outsiders; everyone was happy to be a part of the magic. Performers hung out with the crowd supporting other artists, whilst the prince himself danced with us at 6am to the closing set. 

 Highlights included; Sundowner Rooftop Session with Modular Princess, Maribou State’s live performance, Haai playing Paradise at The Peacock Club and Daniel Avery at the Courtyard Red Bull Stage. 

 We’ve been fortunate enough to attend a lot of festivals around the world but this tops it as one of our favourites. If you’re thinking of heading somewhere exotic for December 2020, keep Magnetic Fields Festival on your radar. 

Things to consider: 

• Book early to secure a room in Alsisar Mahal (palace hotel) or a bedouin tent (luxury tents with fully functioning bathroom, proper double beds, front porch, heating)
• Fly into Delhi or Jaipur and book a private taxi through the festival website to reach the location as other taxi providers will struggle to find the site.
• Take lots of warm (but fashionable) clothes for the festival including gloves, hats, scarves and thermals
• Bring cash with you, the festival has its own currency which you can pay for using card or cash (but cash is always the safer option)
•  If staying outside the festival site (in a surrounding Haveli) pick-up cheaper booze from the airport 
• If staying on the festival site (in tents) be aware that there are thorough bag searches and no booze is allowed in
• Leave space in your bag to buy from some of the amazing pop-up clothing stalls in the souk market
• Stay on after the festival and explore Rajasthan

Eloise Martin

Instagram – @eloiseemartinn

The post CRISP. Travel : Magnetic Fields Festival in India appeared first on CRISP..

The Foot Rest Pillow (£14.99)

Probably one of the best things we’ve ever traveled with (for children and adults). As the title suggests the footrest pillow can fit in the footwell of any car, train or plane and gives a great opportunity to relax with your feet up,  however using it for the kids is when it really comes into its own. The Pillow when inflated fully fits the exact height on the width of most airplane footwells meaning when you couple it with the seat itself it can act as a bed for your child. We recommend it for children between 1 and 3. If you’re lucky enough to get a whole row on the plane, buy three of these,  stick the armrests up and have yourself a full bed! Super portable, The pillow is also very easy to inflate and deflate too and we had it up and running within around 3 minutes.  This is a must-have.

Pro dad tip: Spend a bit more if needs be and book overnight flights at your childs usual bedtime at local time.

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Trunki carry-on Suitcase (£39.99)

Since its appearance on Dragons Den in 2006, Trunki has gone from strength to strength and has since gone on to sell over 3 million units. If you haven’t seen a Trunki before (where have you been?!) but its essentially a carry-on suitcase your child can ride on which you can pull with a leash. Each suitcase has a name and there are a wide variety of ‘characters’ to choose from. It puts the fun into packing, keeps children entertained and makes it easy for them to move around the airport.

Pro dad tip: Don’t let a tired child ride a Trunki for obvious reasons.

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Children’s Headphones and USB adaptor (£12.99)

As simple as it sounds, These a must-have for your child’s carry on. Airplane standard-issue earphones simply do not cut the mustard, they’re often poor quality, don’t fit and don’t work. The last thing your kids needs to see is a movie they cant watch.

These headphones from “Mpow” were a reasonably priced purchased from Amazon based on reviews.  They’re comfortable but there are two features in particular we like. The 3.5mm wire is not hardwired and if you catch it on something you can plug it back in without breaking the headphones. There is also a volume limiter you can use on the wire to prevent your child from listening to high volumes even if they turn it up themselves on devices.

Pro dad tip: Always double check, but a lot of new phones and tablets may not have a headphone jack or 3.5mm out, so it’s worth investing in an adaptor which are cheap and can be found here

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Tablet or iPad (Galaxy Tab A – £159.00)

A tablet or iPad is perfect for the car, plane and generally sitting around waiting in airports. Not only is it great for movies there are tonnes of games you can download and play and they can also be very educational. We don’t condone any more screen time than needed but definitely use your tablet to get creative. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A is a great choice for only £159

Pro dad tip: Download jigsaw puzzle games for good two-player problem solving and if you’re getting movies and TV shows, ensure to download them so they’re available offline and can be viewed without internet access. 

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Tablet Holder and Charger

A perfect device for the back seat of the car.  This innovative tablet holder can be mounted for single viewing (back of the seat) or multiple viewing  (middle of both seats) so both children can watch the tablet. Ideal for long journeys and will keep your children entertained for hours. You can also fit phones and a Nintendo Switch.

Pro dad tip: Most cars have a rear cigarette adaptor charging port. Utilise this to keep your tablet/iPad charged at all times by turning it into a USB port. You find a bunch of them here.

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Headphone Splitter (£3.49)

Sharing is caring. Rather than buy two tablets or more, you can split the audio with this device 5 ways that your children can all watch and listen to one tablet, laptop or phone. If they’re up for it they can even mix in their own music and enjoy being DJ’s for the day.

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Nintendo Switch (£355.00)

The Nintendo Switch was born to Travel. Whilst it does have the ability to work as a console on the big screen, its true capabilities come into play when portable. Its large screen, excellent battery life, well-designed controls make it the perfect travel companion for kids. Being Nintendo, it also has a vast variety of children’s games in its library too including the addictive Mario Kart. The Switch is also geared up for multiplayer straight out of the box. Simply remove the side control sticks and they become smaller individual control pads for 2 player action.

Pro dad tip: The Nintendo Switch game cartridges are TINY. Similar to a standard-sized SD card. We recommend setting up a Nintendo account and downloading these games to the device beforehand so they’re available offline and your kids cant lose them. Also, a screen protector may be a good idea too.

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Water Magic Colouring Books (£5.00)

Water magic colouring books are brilliant. It’s a no-ink and no-pen alternative to colouring and great for travelling. Simply fill the magic marker with water and the colours will magically appear on the page when wet and disappear again when dry. As a result, the pages can be used over and over again and come in a variety of different topics.

Pro dad tip: Try and teach the kids to ‘paint’ rather than ‘draw’ with the pens as the bristles may damage over time.

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Carmen Adkins

The post Best Travel Tips & Products For Parents appeared first on CRISP..