Matador Network's Blog, page 1029
August 22, 2019
Atlantic Canada travel guide
4 provinces, 1 unforgettable trip: Atlantic Canada
New Brunswick
Newfoundland and Labrador
Nova Scotia
Prince Edward Island
Photo: Tourism Nova Scotia/Acorn Art Photography
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In Atlantic Canada, original lighthouses still dot the rocky coasts. Tiny fishing villages still practice traditions of the past. The trees still far, far, far outnumber the people. Gaelic, French, and Scottish customs still pepper the local culture. And the seafood? Still as sublime as ever.
Canada’s four Atlantic provinces make for one epic road trip, heading north from Maine into New Brunswick, then on to Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador (with a few ferries thrown in, of course). You’ll quickly find that each is vastly different from the next, but they do share one quality: timeless adventure. The world’s most extreme tides, icebergs bobbing between humpback whales and puffins, red-sand beaches fit for lobster picnics, forests that descend into fjords — it’s all just a road trip away in Atlantic Canada. Here’s how to do it right.
This guide is proudly produced in partnership with Tourism New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism, Tourism Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island Tourism, and Destination Canada.
New Brunswick
Photo: Shutterstock/Paul Pound
Atrip to New Brunswick reads like a mystery novel: sea caves and ocean floors that disappear with the tide, lighthouses that “whistle,” the country’s warmest saltwater, forests hiding alpine blueberries beneath countless trees. When you’ve solved all the riddles, make your reward a fresh lobster roll.
This winding hike takes you to some of Grand Manan Island's best beaches, forests, and cliffs...
Hiking from Hole-In-The-Wall to Swallowtail Lighthouse
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Hiking from Hole-In-The-Wall to Swallowtail Lighthouse
This winding hike takes you to some of Grand Manan Island's best beaches, forests, and cliffs. It begins at Whale Cove, a crescent-shaped beach dotted with large rocks and a nice spot for a dip. Past the beach, take the trail into the woods to the Hole-In-The-Wall, a huge arching rock formation jutting out from the cliff side.
Continue your walk on the Red Trail toward Bull's Eddy Deck, which will lead you to the historic Swallowtail Lighthouse. Take a well-deserved break while enjoying a panoramic view of the bay...and maybe spot a few whales and porpoises while you're at it.
Photo: Tyler Cave
Renowned for having the world's highest tides, the Bay of Fundy is an aquatic phenomenon...
Kayaking the Bay of Fundy
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Kayaking the Bay of Fundy
Renowned for having the world's highest tides, the Bay of Fundy is a true aquatic phenomenon, and the best way to explore it is via sea kayak.
Even if you've never paddled before, going with a guide will make you feel comfortable on the water. Paddle through the iconic formations of the Hopewell Rocks, where you'll find yourself weaving through small passageways and tunnels. When the tide goes down, hop out of your kayak and walk across the ocean floor, exploring those same rock formations on foot.
Photo: Tourism New Brunswick
Stop by the Old Well House Café on Grand Manan Island...
Getting caffeinated at Old Well House Café
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Getting caffeinated at Old Well House Café
Stop by the Old Well House Café on Grand Manan Island for a fresh espresso or pastry. This cozy waterside spot is great for ducking out of the rain on a stormy day or enjoying a good book by the ocean. With the island's largest selection of coffees, this is also the best place for caffeine lovers to get their morning cappuccino.
Want to make a meal out of it? The café also serves soups made from scratch, grilled wraps, and homemade sweets.
Photo: The Old Well House Café
The historic Market Square area near the Saint John waterfront is a local hot spot...
Exploring Saint John's uptown heritage district
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Exploring Saint John's uptown heritage district
The historic Market Square area near the waterfront in Saint John, the only city on the Bay of Fundy, has been a local hot spot for hundreds of years. You could easily spend an entire day here dining, shopping, and meandering on the boardwalk by the bay.
Events like Buskers on the Bay and the Saint John Beer Festival make repeat visitors out of first-timers. In the summer season, no need to schedule your trip around the next big event—just grab an ice cream or beer and enjoy live entertainment every night of the week.
Photo: Tourism New Brunswick
For another incredible Grand Manan hike, check out the Upper and Lower Flock of Sheep routes...
Taking in coastal views along the Flock of Sheep Trail
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Taking in coastal views along the Flock of Sheep Trail
For another incredible Grand Manan hike, check out the Upper and Lower Flock of Sheep routes, which display the many layers of geology that make up the island. The name comes from the large white granite boulders that sit atop black, lava-formed spires—from the bay, the cliffs look like a flock of sheep.
The trail follows the coastline's steep cliff edges, and while overall it's an easy walk, be mindful of tides and courteous to cottage owners who graciously let hikers cross their private property on the trail.
Photo: Tyler Cave
Newfoundland and Labrador
Photo: Tyler Cave
As Canada’s easternmost province, Newfoundland and Labrador has always been a crossroads for adventure. There’s enough coastline here to stretch across the country four times over — and more than enough to stretch your imagination. Whales and icebergs crest the surface of offshore waters, ancient footpaths parallel the main roads, and tiny fishing villages speak dialects that allude to another time.
Traveling fjords by Zodiac
In the heart of Gros Morne National Park, this speedy Zodiac boat tour...
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Traveling fjords by Zodiac
In the heart of Gros Morne National Park, a speedy Zodiac boat tour takes you deep into a glacier-carved valley, zooming below the stark cliffs of the Tablelands. On top of gorgeous views, the area is full of wildlife—keep an eye out for caribou, moose, bear, and Arctic hare.
Besides allowing you to see a side of Gros Morne most visitors never do, the veteran guides and personalized, small group sizes are what make this tour stand out from others.
Photo: Tyler Cave
The Green Gardens Trail winds through boreal forest to volcanic sea cliffs covered in bright green meadows...
Hiking the Green Gardens Trail
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Hiking the Green Gardens Trail
Starting at the orange-brown boulders that speckle the barrens of the Tablelands, the Green Gardens Trail winds through boreal forest to volcanic sea cliffs covered in bright green meadows, a sea cave (at low tide), and waterfalls. The trail is 2.8 miles to the beach, 6.2 miles round trip. Keep an eye out for sheep, a relic of the area's agricultural past.
Make it a multi-day trek and pitch a tent at one of the trail's two campgrounds along the coast. S'mores on the beach, anyone?
Photo: Tyler Cave
This 10-room, bay-side boutique inn is the perfect hub for exploration...
Staying at Bonne Bay Inn
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Staying at Bonne Bay Inn
This 10-room, bay-side boutique inn is a great hub for exploring Gros Morne National Park and the Woody Point area. With both mountain and ocean views, Bonne Bay Inn is a local mainstay regardless of season or weather.
After a day's worth of adventure, grab a drink at the inn's Elements Pub, hang out on the scenic deck, or sit down to dinner in the Blue Ocean Dining Room—complete with a 270-degree (blue) ocean vista.
Photo: Tyler Cave
You can't get closer to endless hiking trails and swimming holes than this...
Sleeping in an oTENTik
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Sleeping in an oTENTik
You can't get closer to endless hiking trails and swimming holes than the Trout River Campground in Gros Morne National Park. The excellent location puts you minutes from navigating the Tablelands, cruising Gros Morne's gorges, hiking to Green Gardens, visiting the Discovery Centre, or finding the best view of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
If you're able to book in advance, reserve one of the campground's two oTENTiks. Half tent, half cabin, these modern-yet-rustic accommodations mean camping in style: with beds, furniture, and hardwood floors.
Photo: Parks Canada
One of the world's most impressive gatherings of humpback whales happens right here...
Seeing whales and puffins in the wild
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Seeing whales and puffins in the wild
One of the world's most impressive gatherings of humpback whales (numbering in the several thousands) happens off the coast of St. John's every summer. You'll occasionally even be able to spot them breaching from the docks.
On any Molly Bawn whale-watching tour, you'll likely also see puffins, though you could also take a puffin tour out to one of the tiny puffin islands to solidify your chances. Check out their morning tours, where members of the Puffin Patrol often release young puffins back into the sea.
Other incredible sights to look out for: dolphins, minke whales, eagles, sharks, otters, killer whales, and even icebergs.
Photo: Shutterstock/Blue Planet Studio
Nova Scotia
Photo: Tourism Nova Scotia/Patrick Rojo
Just across the gulf from Maine, time weaves a story through Nova Scotia. UNESCO sites marking historic harbors, sea cliffs covered with fossils, coastlines worn smooth by millennia of waves, hiking trails through ancient, old-growth forests — it’s all here. This province is an adventure for the curious, the undeterred…and the hungry.
Catching a sunset at Peggy's Cove
Peggy's Point Lighthouse is one of the most photographed in Canada...
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Catching a sunset at Peggy's Cove
Peggy's Point Lighthouse is one of Nova Scotia's best-known lighthouses and one of the most photographed in Canada. Located in the quaint fishing village of Peggy's Cove, it's a beacon that draws people in to explore this stunning area.
The most magical time to visit is at sunset, when the waves and rocks glow orange as the day's light wanes.
Photo: Tourism Nova Scotia/Acorn Art Photography
Lobster lovers will not find themselves lonely in Nova Scotia...
Savoring Nova Scotian lobster
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Savoring Nova Scotian lobster
Lobster lovers will not find themselves lonely in Nova Scotia, every corner of the province has an opportunity to put on your bib and get crackin'.
If you're looking for an authentic Nova Scotian lobster experience, here are just a few options: Choose your own lobster at Hall's Harbour Lobster Pound. Visit Shore Club for their original lobster supper. Be a lobster fisher for a day at Tor Bay. Set sail with Salty Dog Sea Tours to a private island where an expert chef cooks lobster onsite, right in front of your eyes. There are, at least a dozen more adventures to get your fill, too.
Photo: Tourism Nova Scotia/Acorn Art Photography
Minutes from Lunenburg, Blue Rocks probably has more islands per paddle stroke than anywhere else...
Kayaking Blue Rocks
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Kayaking Blue Rocks
Minutes from Lunenburg, Blue Rocks—covered in golden rockweed, which gives them a sunnier color—probably has more islands per paddle stroke than anywhere else. Pleasant Paddling need be your only stop before hitting the narrow passageways, sandy coves, and uninhabited islands via kayak.
Look for the colony of grey and harbor seals that hangs out among the islands, joined by too many fish, birds, and other maritime creatures to count. Hourly rentals and tours are both available, so you can check out the area with as much or as little guidance as you wish.
Photo: Luke Connor
The best way to learn the secrets of the famous Oak Island...
Discovering mysterious Oak Island
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Discovering mysterious Oak Island
The best way to learn the secrets of the famous Oak Island is on a sea voyage with Tony Sampson of Salty Dog Sea Tours. He'll narrate the watery way to sites seen on the History Channel's The Curse of Oak Island. (Spoiler: It's not actually cursed.)
Post-tour, take in those gorgeous ocean panoramas on a stand-up paddleboard, wander the nearby Lunenburg waterfront (a UNESCO site), or head out to the fishing village of Peggy's Cove.
In the evening, it's time for live music and local food over a crackling bonfire at Oak Island Resort & Conference Centre. With views overlooking the Atlantic, choose from a simple guest room, chalet, or seaside villa.
Photo: Tourism Nova Scotia
This cozy coastal spot is located just outside Halifax...
Relaxing seaside at Oceanstone
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Relaxing seaside at Oceanstone
This cozy coastal spot is located just outside Halifax, making it a great place to stay if you want to visit Atlantic Canada's biggest city during the day but return to the sound of crashing waves at night. Sitting right on the Atlantic, Oceanstone Seaside Resort lies within a community just minutes from the iconic Peggy's Cove. The beautiful cottages and the fresh, local dining at the onsite restaurant make Oceanstone an obvious road tripper's favorite.
Lobster Feast & Peggy's Cove Adventure at Oceanstone Seaside Resort. Photo: Tourism Nova Scotia/Patrick Rojo
Prince Edward Island
Photo: Tyler Cave
By ferry from Nova Scotia, across the dramatic Confederation Bridge from New Brunswick, or via air from anywhere, you’ve found your island. Zigzagging coastal drives along red-sand beaches and past lighthouses are a quick intro to PEI — deeper immersion can be had trekking through coastal forests and counting constellations in the pleasantly dark nighttime sky.
The five TreePODS at Treetop Haven Inc. put glamping to shame...
Sleeping in a treePOD
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Sleeping in a treePOD
The five TreePODS, aka geodesic domes in the trees, at put glamping to shame. Wall-sized windows bring nature inside during the day; at night, you're watching a television of stars. Each TreePOD comes with a large patio that features a barbecue and seating area, hot tub, and patio lights for keeping you immersed in nature as long as possible.
After a day of hiking and exploring PEI, you'll want that hot tub, or you can go forest bathing on one of the trails in Treetop's 50 wooded acres.
Photo: Tyler Cave
This historic waterfront marketplace is a hub for Summerside locals...
Wandering Spinnakers' Landing
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Wandering Spinnakers' Landing
This historic waterfront marketplace is a hub for Summerside locals. The collection of one-of-a-kind boutiques, where you can pick up almost anything with a Celtic spin, will likely be your first stop. Second up, the food. This is a great lunch spot for ice cream, local seafood, pub fare, and cold drinks.
The sunny outdoor patio around the marketplace is where the live music happens, though you can catch it from the boardwalk, too.
Photo: Spinnakers' Landing
Stone artifacts some 11,000 years old have been found here...
Biking the Tryon River Trail
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Biking the Tryon River Trail
This spot just east of the Confederation Bridge is incredibly history-rich. Stone artifacts some 11,000 years old have been found along the banks of the Tryon River. Later, this was where the Acadians built their first homes, and eventually it would become an industrial center focused on shipbuilding, textiles, and fishing.
Today, the river is anything but industrial, or even residential. The Tryon River Trail is almost entirely rural, making it a gorgeous spot for an evening bike ride. Birds and wildlife are common along the trail, and if you're interested in the river's backstory, you can grab a historic guide at the trail's entrance for free.
Photo: Tourism PEI/Carrie Gregory
If you've ever been fascinated by birds of prey, Fun with Falcons offers an incredible opportunity...
Feeding falcons
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Feeding falcons
If you've ever been fascinated (or rightfully intimidated) by birds of prey, Fun with Falcons offers an incredible opportunity: you'll meet, hold, and touch these awe-inspiring birds yourself.
The tour is run by expert falconer Jamie Stride on his property, where he works with his half-dozen or so hawks and falcons. Once safely equipped with a handler's glove and Jamie's direction, you'll head out into his field and feed the birds by hand. They'll swoop down from the trees and grab their meal gently from you—though they can catch the meat in midair, too.
Photo: Luke Connor
If Summerside's beautiful historic district is a must-see on your list...
Going Victorian
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Going Victorian
If Summerside's beautiful historic district is a must-see on your list, consider staying at Island Home Bed & Breakfast, just a few blocks from the water. This family-run guesthouse: Sharon and Mike are your hosts, has just three rooms (each with private baths), making it great for small gatherings where your party can have the run of the house. Before you head out in the mornings, waffles, pancakes, eggs, fruit, and plenty of coffee and tea will be served in the sunny dining room.
Walking distance from the best spots in Summerside, you can easily reach the waterfront boardwalk, beaches, and the Harbourfront Theatre from Island Home.
Photo: Island Home B&B
This guide is proudly produced in partnership with Tourism New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism, Tourism Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island Tourism, and Destination Canada.
The post 4 provinces, 1 unforgettable trip: Atlantic Canada appeared first on Matador Network.
August 21, 2019
Museum, zoo, and aquarium overnights
Ben Stiller had us all a little jealous. Like, how cool would it be to get trapped in the American Museum of Natural History and spend the night conversing with Teddy Roosevelt and a T-rex skeleton? Terrifying, yes, but still very, very cool. Sadly, odds are all those exhibits will never actually come to life, but around the world lots of museums, zoos, and aquariums — including the American Museum of Natural History in New York City — have overnight programs where you can get closer to the exhibits than you would during normal hours. From the Baseball Hall of Fame in New York to a jungle in Florida, here are some of the best museums, zoos, and aquariums where you can spend the night.
1. The Toronto Zoo — Toronto, Ontario
Photo: The Toronto Zoo/Facebook
Safari glamping doesn’t have to involve crossing an ocean or taking a trip to Disney World. The Toronto Zoo puts you up in canvas tents in the middle of its African Savannah, where you’ll enjoy unparalleled access to the exhibit, as well as fully guided, interactive walking tours, buffet dinner and breakfast, and a s’mores-filled campfire, weather permitting. Most tours are for families or youth groups, but in July and August, the zoo offers adults-only tours, too.
2. National Baseball Hall of Fame Museum — Cooperstown, New York
Photo: LunaseeStudios/Shutterstock
Imagine falling asleep under the watchful eyes of Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, and Mordechi “Three Finger” Brown. That Field of Dreams fantasy comes true at the National Baseball Hall of Fame Museum where, as part of its Extra Innings Overnights, you’ll get to explore the museum with no crowds for about two hours then enjoy a special screening of Generations of the Game. Then comes naptime, when you’ll set up a makeshift bed in either the Hall of Fame Gallery or the first-floor exhibits, literally sleeping in the middle of baseball history.
3. Newport Aquarium — Newport, Kentucky
Photo: Newport Aquarium/Facebook
This Cincinnati suburb is home to the city’s premiere aquarium, where you’ll find thousands of exhibits, including the largest interactive seahorse exhibit in the world. It also puts a little more creativity into its overnight stays than other institutions, with a beach-themed overnight, an in-depth look at penguins, and a mermaid pizza party as part of its Overnight Adventures series. All programs include sleeping bag time under the museum’s massive tanks, plus animal encounters and breakfast in the morning.
4. Jungle Island — Miami, Florida
Photo: https://www.jungleisland.com/
In what one might consider the creepiest overnight on the list, Miami’s tropical animal park offers a sleepover program where you’ll literally be sleeping in a jungle surrounded by parrots, alligators, and lemurs. Let the jungle noises lull you to sleep during the Overnight Expeditions, where in addition to living Heart of Darkness, you’ll partake in a flashlight hike to observe animal behaviors, eat s’mores around a campfire, create an art project, and participate in hands-on animal interactions.
5. Field Museum — Chicago, Illinois
Photo: Field Museum
Chicago’s natural history museum offers a twice-monthly “Dozin’ with the dinos” program for children and groups with kids ages six to 12. During the overnight experience, guests will spend time with museum scientists, delving deep into the exhibits and doing hands-on activities like dissecting owl pellets. Then the lights go out, and it’s time to explore the exhibitions like a security guard, shining flashlights on the Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet, and the Elizabeth Morse Genius Hall of Dinosaurs.
6. Ripley’s Aquarium — Toronto, Ontario
Photo: Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada overnight/Facebook
Sleeping in a shark tunnel generally sounds like an ill-advised way to spend the night. Not the case at Toronto’s Ripley’s Aquarium, however, where guests arrive at 8:00 PM to learn all about the aquatic animals that populate the museum. Once the general public leaves at 11:00 PM, it’s time for a bedtime snack, followed by a night sleeping inside the glass-encased Dangerous Tunnel where sharks, tropical fish, and other colorful ocean life keep you company while you sleep.
7. Nashville Zoo — Nashville, Tennessee
Photo: Nashville Zoo/Kate Sarber/Facebook
More than just a mere sleepover with wild beasts, the Nashville Zoo’s Zzzofari Slumber Party is a nightlong celebration where families pitch their own tents and treat the zoo like their own personal playground. The evening begins with hayrides, animal shows, and a soaring eagle zipline, then graduates to a 7:30 PM campfire with cornhole and s’mores. After that, it’s bedtime, followed by a full breakfast with the animals before your final send off.
8. Frost Museum of Science — Miami, Florida
Photo: Frost Science
Appropriately, the most instagrammable museum sleepover in America is in Miami, where kids get to set up their sleeping bags under the Frost Museum’s infamous oculus, a circular window into an aquarium filled with hammerheads, rays, and other tropical marine life. During the program, kids will dine on cheese pizza and a late-night snack, then explore the rest of the museum’s exhibits like Strange Matter and a mini mock-up of the Everglades. The fun ends between 10:00 AM and noon, giving Miami parents plenty of time to sleep in.
9. Seneca Park Zoo — Rochester, New York
Photo: Seneca Park Zoo/Facebook
Rochester’s landmark educational institution’s Bunk with Beasts offers possibly the most immersive zoo overnight program in America, beginning the experience with an informative dinner so guests can learn about all the animals they’re about to see. It’s followed by an after-hours tour of the zoo, then a light snack before an early bedtime. The next morning, guests rise early to see how the zoo prepares for the day, including early-morning animal feedings and a look at some of the more-nocturnal residents you might not catch during the day.
10. Bronx Zoo — The Bronx, New York
Photo: Bronx Zoo/Facebook
Family overnights at the venerable Bronx Zoo predate nearly all the programs on this list, celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. The 2019 edition of the overnights has guests solving a mystery during the event, all the while getting unfettered access to the zoo after hours and enjoying ice cream and a late-night snack. In the morning, you’ll find a children’s scavenger hunt and early entry to the Nature Trek and children’s zoo.
11. American Museum of Natural History — New York City, New York
Photo: American Museum of Natural History
The most famous T-rex skeleton in the world is all yours several times a year when the American Museum of Natural History stays open late for its family and adult sleepovers. The family editions include live animal demonstrations, as well as screenings of Dark Universe in the Planetarium and a 3D movie in the LeFrak theatre. The adult sleepovers are a more elaborate affair, with a Champagne reception, massive dinner buffet, cots for sleeping, and a breakfast snack.
12. Smithsonian National Zoo — Washington, DC
Photo: Smithsonian’s National Zoo
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers family and adult programs too, though with Snore and Roar’s the differences are mainly between the educational programs they offer. Both programs will have you setting up your tent on Lion/Tiger Hill and enjoying a private, guided tour of one of the zoo’s main exhibits. You’ll sleep to the sounds of wolves and wake to the barking of sea lions, as close as you’ll get to either experience without venturing into the wild.
13. Calgary Zoo — Calgary, Alberta
Photo: The Calgary Zoo/Facebook
For a zoo overnight with a little bit of social purpose, head north of the border for the Calgary Zoo’s sleepovers. In addition to animal encounters and educational programs, guests will learn about the challenges facing these animals in the wild and ways they can take action to help them. The sleepovers also have different themes, so you can go back more than once and experience The Northern Lights, Penguin Sleepover, or the Savannah Sleepover.
14. The Franklin Institute — Philadelphia, PA
Photo: The Franklin Institute/Facebook
Edgar Allan Poe may have been onto something when he waxed poetic about the hypnotic nature of a beating heart. See if your kids find the same magic when they Camp-In at Philadelphia’s science museum, where in addition to spending the night amongst the exhibits, they can also fall asleep next to a giant beating heart. Beyond larger-than-life cardiovascular educations, they can also watch the Asteroid show in the Fels Planetarium, catch the Dream Big show in the IMAX theater, and gaze at the stars through a high-powered telescope in the Bloom Observatory. 
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The post These museums, zoos, and aquariums will let you spend the night appeared first on Matador Network.
Best trek in Peru
A trek up the magnificent mountains of Peru is a life-changing experience. I set out to trek a lesser-known route to Machu Picchu as well as its remote surrounding regions. Due to its intense difficulty, the 35-mile expedition along the Ancascocha route is not well-known — meaning you may find yourself alone there. Trails wind alongside desolate and incomparable vantage points, offering views of one of the world’s most scenic places. Those views are very well earned.
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Due to the variance in weather — which could bring anything from snow to 75 degrees and sunshine — I needed equipment capable of a variety of conditions. Historically, Incas navigated this trail wearing only thick alpaca-wool ponchos and tunics. Luckily, I had lightweight down and Gortex for this journey. I also had to prepare for altitude. Although I’d acclimated for two days in Cusco, I began to wonder about my training regimen prior to this trip. I live at sea level and we were starting this journey above 11,000 feet.
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We started with a slow, steady climb to the Perolniyoc waterfall, where we took a break and enjoyed the view for a while. The waterfall is fed by the snow run-off from the mountains above and is over 330 feet in height. Our guide spoke of the significance of the waterfall to the Incan people and the area, explaining that it has fed the farmland below from a time predating the Incas.
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An hour after that, we began to make camp. Our first night was spent right next to the Inca ruins of Raqaypata. It was the first time I had seen Inca ruins up close. The structure, fine stonework, and intricate designs were just a tiny preview of what was to come.
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4
Our second day started with a four-mile climb straight up Kuychiccasa pass. It was slow, steady, and put us around 14,900 feet at about lunchtime. The views were breathtaking, as was the altitude. I was getting my first dose of altitude sickness, but we were just getting started.
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The second half of the day mostly consisted of what I was told is “Peruvian flat.” We walked a series of up-and-down trails, between 12,000 and 14,000 feet. While in the region, we came across a few traditional Andean farms and passed through a mostly empty village.
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The day progressed, we approached camp for the night, and I was excited to rest and refuel. I had been using the mountain range and horizon as a reference for how far I thought we may have gone. As the temperature increased throughout the day, I had to periodically take stops to peel off layers and rehydrate.
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The temperature was beginning to drop as we arrived at camp near the village of Ancascocha. After getting everything set up, we all bundled up as best we could for the night ahead. We were expecting freezing temperatures between 15 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. I spent the majority of the night outside with my camera and started to ponder what it was like to make this pilgrimage to Machu Picchu 800 years ago.
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As day three began, we began the journey to Huayna pass, notably the highest point on the trek. This is when I started to really appreciate our porters. The air was extremely thin, increasingly difficult for visitors trekking with gear. While there are many tour companies and porters who can assist travelers from the base, I had hired Action Peru Treks to get me across the Andes. I felt they had several adventure tour options, and they are pioneers as one of the first Peruvian companies employing female porters in a once entirely male-dominated industry.
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After we left the valley from Ancascocha, I began to realize how deep in the mountains we truly were. Even at 15,000 feet, astonishingly, there was still an array of vegetation and wildlife.
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As we reached the summit, the view was like no other I had seen. This was the highest point of our trek at 15,400 feet, but I didn't really notice the altitude because the view was so unbelievable.
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We then spent the next four hours descending to 11,000 feet over five miles. The trail was extremely steep at points and precariously positioned on the side of a cliff.
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My personal highlight happened on the third day. I had found alpacas. They were very cute and curious about what I was up to; their facial expressions seemed like a caricature to me. I am not sure whether it's because they have a friendly attitude, but they made the journey to our final camp that much more enjoyable.
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As we arrived at our final camp I started to realize we were beginning to get close to civilization. We had come to a fork where the Ancascocha and Inca trail converge. We camped at the base of the Paucarcancha Inca site. This area served as a central hub during Inca times.
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Our last day of trekking was a fairly steady downhill portion on the Inca trail, in the opposite direction of everyone else along the Cusichaka River. These were the first hikers I’d seen on this journey. At the bottom of the trailhead, we took a regional train to Aguas Calientes, the city of Machu Picchu. We were suddenly back in civilization, and I’d only just begun to process everything I’d seen. The Ancascocha Trek is not a beginner hike, but its difficulty sets it apart as a Peruvian mountain experience without many other travelers.
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The post Jaw-dropping images from a desolate mountain trek in Peru appeared first on Matador Network.
LA’s wildlife corridor
The biggest wildlife corridor in the world is currently being designed, and it will stretch over US Highway 101 to northwest Los Angeles and connect parts of the Santa Monica Mountain chain. The corridor will make it easier for mountain lions and other animals to roam freely through different parts of the mountains without the dangers of human interference. The project, which is in its final phase of design, costs $87 million and is slated to open in 2023.
According to Beth Pratt of the National Wildlife Federation, “This ecosystem needs to be reconnected for all wildlife. Segmentation impacts animals both large and small: lizards and birds up to mountain lions. [Mountain lions are] an animal that is particularly beloved in California. We want these animals on the landscape, and the population will go extinct if we don’t do something soon.”
Designers of the corridor chose to create a bridge surrounded by brush and trees, which extends 165 feet over a 10-lane freeway. It is supposed to blend seamlessly with the mountains, so the animals don’t realize they’re on a bridge at all.
“We looked at the best solution for all wildlife so all creatures can use this,” said Pratt, adding, “We’re doing this in LA, a city of four million people. If LA can do it, it can work anywhere. Even in a giant city, we’ll make a home for a mountain lion.”
More like this: The best 8 places to see some of the world’s most majestic animals up close
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Prairie dogs with plague close parks
When you think of disease-carrying animals, prairie dogs might not be at the top of your list, but as it turns out, they’re actually bringing a pretty nasty ailment to the Denver area. Fleas infected with the plague bacterium Yersinia pestis were discovered on prairie dogs in the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge north of Denver late last month, and the park closed for several weeks. Although parts of the park reopened last weekend, other parts will remain closed through the summer.
According to John M. Douglas, Executive Director of the Tri-County Health Department, “the prairie dog colonies are being monitored and burrows are being treated with insecticide, but there is still evidence of fleas in the hiking and camping areas, which could put people and pets at risk, so those areas will remain closed.”
It might sound unlikely that modern-day prairie dogs have become infected by a 14th-century plague. Apparently, the bacteria had made its way to San Francisco around 1900, where it infected squirrels in the area before spreading across the American West. Although no humans have been impacted by the disease thus far, it can actually prove fatal to small mammals.
Paul Marinari, senior curator at the Smithsonian Conservation and Biology Institute, said, “it all depends on the species of prairie dog and the level of die-off. A number of prairie dog colonies see complete loss.”
For now, the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is doing everything it can to contain the outbreak and make the area safe for guests. “We are closing trails and spraying insecticide to kill fleas in plague-affected areas where there might be humans,” said the Refuge’s David Lucas. But then there is this secondary effort which is to try to prevent the spread of this disease across the landscape.”
More like this: The Amazon rainforest, our defense against climate change, has been on fire for weeks
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Where to tip and how much
Navigating how to tip while on vacation can be stressful and confusing. In the US, tipping is second nature, but that’s simply not the case in the rest of the world. In Japan, for instance, leaving a tip for the waiter is considered an insult. The rules are less straightforward in many other countries. In fact, tipping etiquette tends to be vague or so varied that you’ll often find there is no set standard.
In many countries in Europe and Asia, servers won’t be insulted if there’s no tip left after a meal. In other places, it’s most common to tell your server to “keep the change.” That means that as a tourist you’ll often have to use your own judgement when leaving behind a tip. Some factors to be aware of: the minimum wage in the country you’re visiting, the atmosphere of the restaurant, and the quality of the service.
However, no matter how loose the tipping culture is in the country you’re visiting, it’s almost always a considerate show of appreciation to tip at least 10 percent. If you find yourself truly floundering, consult this handy guide to (almost) every country where it’s customary to leave a tip.
1. Argentina
You aren’t expected to tip in Argentina, but it is nevertheless an appreciated practice. There’s no standard tipping amount, and you won’t find a space on the receipt to leave a tip if you’re paying by card, so be sure to carry extra cash with you. While a service charge might be added to your bill, an additional 10 percent tip for your server is appreciated. At bars, tipping is not required, so it’s up to you if you want to leave a few extra pesos behind for your bartender.
2. Australia
Tipping at bars in Australia is very uncommon, though you should feel free to leave a couple dollars for a large or complicated order. Tipping in restaurants is becoming more common, though it’s still not widespread. It’s absolutely not obligatory, but if you’re going to tip, 10 percent is acceptable.
3. Belgium
Like many countries in Europe, Belgium has adopted a “keep the change” attitude to tipping, meaning you can round up to the nearest whole number and simply leave that amount as the tip. A more generous tip, however, will certainly not be rejected and will be considered a show of appreciation for good service.
4. Brazil
It’s standard practice to leave a tip for your waiter in Brazil. Like many other countries on this list, a 10 percent gratuity is often included in your check, but if not, you can leave a small additional tip. Another word to the wise: Sales tax is included in the menu prices, not added to the bill at the end of the meal.
5. Canada
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Tipping etiquette in Canada is similar to that of the United States. Gratuity is almost never included in the check. Fifteen to 20 percent is standard, but around 18 percent is expected for good service. In Quebec especially, it’s considered impolite to leave a restaurant without tipping. You should also leave a tip for bartenders — around a dollar for every drink.
6. The Caribbean
Throughout the Caribbean, a service charge of around 10 to 15 percent might be included in your bill, so be sure to check for that. Adding an additional tip is up to you. It won’t be expected but, depending on your experience, would likely be both polite and appreciated. Otherwise, it’s customary to leave a 10 to 20 percent tip depending on the quality of service.
7. Chile
In Chile, the norm is to tip your waiter 10 percent. However, if you’re dining in a big city or at a restaurant that serves mostly tourists, you might be expected to tip more — around 15 to 20 percent. If the restaurant has added a 10 percent service charge to your bill, you can always feel free to add an additional tip.
8. China
At fast food restaurants and street vendors, it’s not appropriate to leave a tip, as is the case around much of the world. However, in China it’s also not necessary to leave a tip at most sit-down restaurants. There is one exception to the rule: If you’re dining at a high-end, formal restaurant, leaving a tip of at least a couple extra dollars (regardless of the quality of service) would be acceptable.
9. Croatia
It is standard practice to tip at restaurants in Croatia. Tips are an important source of income for waiters, so while it’s acceptable to leave at minimum a 10 percent tip, you are always welcome to leave more. The gesture will be appreciated. If you want to be extra sure that the tip goes to your waiter, leave it in cash. At bars and coffee shops, a couple of kuna on top of the check is fine.
10. Denmark
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Danish law stipulates that any service charge, including a tip for individual waiters, must be included in the bill. A small additional tip, around 10 percent, is appreciated but not expected in Denmark.
11. Egypt
In Egypt, tipping is known as backsheesh, and it’s expected from both locals and tourists. Tips are a sign of appreciation for good service and a satisfying meal. Often, a service charge of around 12 percent will be added to a restaurant bill but not always. Tipping an additional 10 percent on top of the service charge is considered polite.
12. France
You’re not obligated to leave a tip in France, but it’s considered a gesture of gratitude. The majority of restaurant bills will include a service compris or a 15 percent service charge. However, your waiter will appreciate your generosity if you do choose to leave a small additional tip. The amount you choose to leave is determined by the level of service; there are no set guidelines for tipping. Generally, five to 10 percent is considered sufficient.
13. Germany
There are no hard and fast rules for tipping in Germany. If in doubt, a good rule of thumb is that five to 10 percent is considered polite. If you’re enjoying a more casual or smaller meal (like a beer and a pretzel) it’s common practice to round up your bill (for example, if you’re bill comes out to 28 euros, pay 30 euros total). Be prepared to pay in cash; many servers in Germany carry change purses and will make your change directly at your table.
14. Greece
In Greece, you may notice that the restaurant menu lists two prices: The true cost of the dish, and the price with a service charge, ranging from 13 to 18 percent (that’s the price you’ll be paying). Restaurants in Greece will also include a “cover charge” in your bill — that’s a fee for the water and bread and butter. A service charge of 10 to 15 percent might also be included in the check. Leaving an additional five to 10 percent tip on top of that is customary, or you can round your bill up by a few euros, as is leaving loose change on the table for the person who clears your dishes.
15. Iceland
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Tipping isn’t customary, but no one will consider you rude if you leave a tip. Small gratuity fees are included in most restaurant bills, as well. And while there is a strange rumor circulating that it’s rude or even illegal to tip in Iceland, that’s a complete myth. A couple extra dollars left after a meal is perfectly acceptable and appreciated in establishments that tourists frequent.
16. India
You might see a service charge on your bill in India, which means that a tip isn’t necessary. If a service charge hasn’t been applied, you should still tip. At sit-down restaurants, it would be considered impolite to leave without tipping. Leave anywhere from a 10 to 15 percent for your server, depending on the service.
17. Mexico
Tipping 10 to 15 percent is considered good practice at restaurants and bars in Mexico. For exceptional service, tip 20 percent, just as you would in the United States. However, it is not necessary to tip at street vendors.
18. Morocco
Tipping everyone who provides a service is standard procedure in Morocco. In higher end restaurants, the average tip is about 10 percent. In cafes and other more casual eateries, it’s customary to round up to the nearest whole number from the check’s total and leave that as a tip. Often times, you’ll pay the bill directly to the waiter at your table, so you can hand off the tip then or leave it on the table.
19. Netherlands
A tip is not expected in the Netherlands, but if you’re feeling generous you can round up the bill up to the nearest whole euro. If you’re paying in cash and decide to leave a tip, simply tell the server to keep the change. Tipping at bars is more rare unless you’re ordering a fancy cocktail. And if a service charge has already been added to you bill, feel free to leave an additional tip, especially in the case of exceptional service.
20. New Zealand
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Most servers in New Zealand won’t expect to be tipped, but it’s a show of gratitude to leave at least a few dollars or 10 percent on top of your bill. Tipping is merit-based so if you really loved your service, feel free to leave more.
21. Norway
If the service is good, it’s business as usual to tip anywhere from 10 to 20 percent at a restaurant in Norway. At most restaurants in Norway, diners pay by card, so leaving loose change on the table as a tip isn’t common. Leaving no tip wouldn’t necessarily be insulting, but it’s advisable to leave at least a five percent tip. A service charge may sometimes be added to your bill, as well.
22. Peru
If you’re enjoying a sandwich or a cup of coffee at a casual cafe, feel free to leave a few coins on the table when you’re done. It’s up to you how much you leave. However, if you’re dining at an upscale restaurant in Peru, plan to leave a 10 to 15 percent tip. Tipping is rare in small, family-owned restaurants where the atmosphere is more casual.
23. Philippines
The Philippines doesn’t have a tipping culture, so you could technically go your entire visit without leaving a single tip, and no one would be offended. However, American tourists are spreading the custom. If you feel inclined to tip on your next trip to the Philippines, feel free to tip 10 percent at restaurants (otherwise look out for a 10 percent service charge attached to your bill).
24. Poland
Although tipping in Poland isn’t strictly enforced, it’s always polite to leave behind a little something extra for your server. Beware: If you pay your bill in cash and say “thank you” when handing it over, your server will assume you don’t want the change (which might be the case). If you want change, just wait to say “thank you” until the server returns with the bill, then leave behind what you think is appropriate. Try to leave the tip in cash; that way, you know it will go directly to your server.
25. Portugal
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In Portugal, casual cafes don’t require tipping (though you can always feel free to leave spare change). However, at upscale restaurants, it’s a different story. If you don’t see a service charge on your check, plan to tip at least 10 percent. Portugal is another country where you should always try to tip in cash.
26. Russia
You may come across this phrase on your bill at a restaurant in Russia: “Gratuities are welcome but always remain at your discretion.” You aren’t obligated to tip, but it’s polite to do so. Depending on the level of service, it’s common practice to tip anywhere from five to 15 percent.
27. South Africa
Everyone in South Africa tips their restaurant servers. Some restaurants will add a 10 percent service charge, so be sure to check your bill before tipping. Otherwise, it’s customary to leave anywhere from 10 to 20 percent of your bill depending on the quality of the service.
28. Spain
Tipping isn’t common in Spain, but at cafes and bars, a small tip is generally appreciated (like the spare change after paying for a cup of coffee). At sit-down or fine-dining restaurants, tipping is even less common because a service charge is included in the bill. If the service charge isn’t included, a safe bet is to tip 10 percent. You might also encounter a terraza fee, an additional charge for sitting outside.
29. Sweden
Your server isn’t going to be insulted if you do (or don’t) leave a tip after your meal in Sweden. Gratuity is often included in the restaurant bill, but if it’s not, consider leaving a 10 to 15 percent tip depending on the quality of the service. It’s also perfectly acceptable to round up from the bill’s total and leave that amount as a tip.
30. Switzerland
Photo: Oleksiy Mark/Shutterstock
The tipping guidelines are loose in Switzerland. Typically, diners round up to the nearest whole number or have a “keep the change” policy at casual cafes and restaurants. The same idea applies to bars. If the service was really impressive, leaving a 10 percent tip is polite, especially at more upscale establishments.
31. Thailand
Though you might eat quite a bit of food from street carts and markets, you shouldn’t tip the vendors. They will assume you have accidentally overpaid and insist you take back your change. However, at sit-down restaurants, you should always tip. At more casual restaurants, it’s customary to leave an extra 10 to 20 baht. If you’re at a more upscale restaurant or you were especially pleased with the service, leave at least 10 to 15 percent.
32. Turkey
Tip in cash in Turkey. It’s generally not possible to add gratuity to a credit card payment. Tip at least 10 percent, though a larger tip is always appreciated (and becoming more common due to a bump in tourism).
33. The United Kingdom
At sit-down restaurants, it’s customary to tip 10 to 15 percent depending on the quality of service. Be sure to check your bill before tipping as some restaurants will include a service fee of around 12 percent if you’re dining with a large group (you don’t need to leave an additional tip on top of that). If you don’t see a service charge on your bill, a 10 percent tip at minimum is acceptable. Pubs are a little trickier, but just to be safe, if the establishment serves an extensive food menu, you’ll probably want to tip like you’re eating at a restaurant.
34. The United States
You know that old cliche about an American waiter chasing a customer who forget to tip down the block? There’s more truth to that than you think. In the United States, tipping at restaurants, bars, and even coffee shops (where you’ll almost always find a tip jar in front of the register) is compulsory. At many sit-down restaurants, a 20 percent tip is not just appropriate — it’s expected. A dollar a drink at a bar (or 20 percent at a cocktail bar) is also expected. Tipping laws across the country mean that tips make up a large portion (if not the majority) of a server’s take-home pay. As one common saying goes, “If you can’t afford to tip, you can’t afford to eat out.” Tips in cash aren’t totally necessary but are preferred.
35. Vietnam
As in Thailand, street vendors might be, at best, confused and, at worst, offended if you try to leave a tip. However, servers at both bars and restaurants should be tipped in Vietnam. While most restaurants will add a 10 percent service charge to your bill, it doesn’t always go to the server, so be prepared to leave an additional 10 to 15 percent tip in cash.
More like this: The ultimate guide to tipping in every European country
The post 35 countries where you should always tip on food and drinks, and how much to leave appeared first on Matador Network.
Sexual practices around the world
Whether you post selfies on Tinder, show off your cleavage with a push-up bra, or seriously commit to arm day at the gym, it all boils down to trying to impress your intended. And while the sexual revolution of the ‘60s loosened everyone up a little on matters of carnal pleasure, we Americans and Brits are still pretty uptight. We stress out over dating app bios, we’re disgusted by period sex, and we’re coy when it comes to open relationships. In short, we’re doing okay — but we have a long way to come.
Different cultures around the world have their own tastes and definitions of what’s normal, some of which are downright inspiring. So broaden your horizons with these 10 sexual practices from around the globe that remind us the world is a big, beautiful, open-minded place.
1. Mangaia, Cook Islands — the tribe with sex mentors
When a boy in the Mangaia tribe turns 13, he’s taken away from the village by an older man where, for the next two weeks, he’ll learn about all things sex. But rather being shown how to put a condom on a banana, he’ll be taught all kinds of lady-pleasing positions with, according to one journal, a “heavy focus on one’s partner achieving orgasm multiple times.” Once these two weeks are over, the boy begins a sexual relationship with an older female coach who guides him as he practices his newfound techniques. Female members of the tribe don’t follow a similar ritual, but they’re encouraged to fully explore their sexuality and have multiple sexual partners before marriage.
2. Brooklyn, US — where polyamory is on the rise
Small polyamorous communities are booming in countries within Europe, North America, and Oceania, but in Brooklyn, the practice of having multiple lovers has turned into a full-blown social scene.
The practice takes its roots from the ‘60s counterculture crowd that rejected traditional mainstream values and politics and set up sex-positive communes where everyone shared everything — including partners. Unlike their hippy forefathers, the poly crowd today has no issues with mainstream culture and is just as likely to be wearing the latest labels and grabbing a coffee from Starbucks as everyone else. That said, polyamory is still political: Practicers often value collective living and believe everyone should be able to act according to their own needs, free from government interference.
3. Chhattisgarh, India — the tribe that defines no-strings sex
Every year, the Muria tribe in Chhattisgarh, India, celebrates Ghotul, a festival where the local teens learn all about songs, dances, folklore, and sex. As soon as night falls, the girls drink natural liquor, which they believe helps prevent pregnancy, then head off to mixed-gender dormitories where they practice premarital sex, sometimes with a single partner and sometimes several. In some Ghotul, teens are paired off in monogamous relationships; in others, they’re discouraged from becoming emotionally attached to their partners, and those who sleep together for more than three nights are punished. The tribe is economically homogeneous and works as a collective, so if a girl accidentally gets pregnant, her baby is adopted by the whole village.
4. Cambodia — the tribe that builds its girls love huts
In the US and UK, most parents insist their teenage daughters keep the bedroom door open when they have their boyfriend or girlfriend round. But in the northeast corner of Cambodia, parents don’t just let her close the door; they give her the whole house.
Moms and dads in the Kreung tribe used to build their daughters huts where they can acquaint themselves with any local boy who takes their fancy until they find the one they want to marry. Traditionally, the man would sit on the steps of the hut and woo his prospective partner with music. If she liked him, she’d invite him in, sometimes for a few nights, months, or even years, then they’d marry or part ways without judgment. Despite the progressive, liberal nature of the practice, misunderstanding fueled aggressive sexual behavior among outsiders, and after an attack on a young girl by a Khymer businessman in 2003, the tribes stopped building huts. Now, the country’s remaining love huts are only to be found in remote northeastern villages.
5. Niger — the wife-stealing tribe
Every year at the end of the rainy season, the Wodaabe tribe — an ancient group of nomadic cattle herders in Niger, West Africa — gathers together to celebrate Gerewol, a festival during which the men dress up in elaborate costumes and strut in a kind of beauty pageant. The aim is to impress or “steal” the wives of other men, who choose their favorites to sleep with.
White teeth and a straight nose are highly prized features, so the men wear lipstick to make their teeth appear bright and paint a white stripe down the center of their nose to make it look sharper. Women wait until their desired man passes by, then tap him on the shoulder. At sunset, the couple disappears into the undergrowth where they’ll spend the night together.
6. Alabama, US — the lesbian village
Founded in 1997, the Alapine Village is a female-only commune and takes its name from the lesbian communities founded throughout the ‘70s. Today, the rural village is home to a group of women who farm the land and host poetry readings, sing-a-longs, and “full moon circles” at night. They’re always looking for new members, so if you like the sound of living in a community based around female nurturing and support, then get in touch. Attendance is flexible and inclusive: Women enjoy a range of diets and live there full time, part-time, seasonally, or short term — so before you take the leap into commune living, you can always try it out for a week.
7. Iran — the temporary marriage
In Iran, they take the phrase “try before you buy” to a whole new level. The temporary marriage, or nikah mut’ah, is a traditional Islamic practice that unites a man and woman as husband and wife for a limited time. Historically it was used so that a fella could have a wife for a short while when traveling long distances, but now, some young Shia Muslim couples are using it as a way to get to know each other a little better before they tie the knot. According to the Oxford Dictionary of Islam, the length of the contract can be anything from three days to a whole year.
8. Yunnan and Sichuan, China — the realm of women
Women of the Mosuo tribe don’t marry and take as many lovers as they want. There’s no word for “father” or “husband,” and lovers don’t live together. Instead, when a woman becomes of age, her mother gives her a key to her own dormitory. From then on, she can begin inviting lovers into her bedroom at night, This arrangement, which is known as a “walking marriage,” can be long-term or last as little as one night. When the couple wants to break up, either the woman stops letting her lover come over, or he just stops coming to see her. Although the tribe’s numbers are dwindling today, records of the Mosuo stretch back to at least 750 BC when the Chinese chronicles named their homeland as nu kuo, or “the realm of women.”
9. Himalayas, Nepal — where brothers share a wife
When a Himalayan son gets married, his family gifts him a portion of their land. But land is scarce on the mountain range, so poorer families who can’t divide their property encourage fraternal polyandry — where the family finds a wife for all the sons so they can live together and leave the estate intact. Once pervasive throughout Nepal’s Mustang region and India’s Ladakh, the practice is slowly dying out and is now limited to sheltered agricultural communities, such as those living in the remote Limi Valley.
10. India and Bangladesh — the community that drinks period blood
While periods remain very much a taboo topic around the world, the Bauls, a religious sect and wandering musical community in India and Bangladesh, celebrate a girl’s first period by mixing her menstrual blood with camphor, milk, and sugar. It’s then drunk by her family and friends.
The Bauls believe spiritual completion involves the “four moons” of menstrual blood, seed, urine, and feces. Women contain all of these, but men are lacking the blood moon, so they must ingest it. They can also absorb the missing moon via their penis during period sex. But this isn’t just any old quickie: It’s a ritualized event where the man must hold back on ejaculating while the women are encouraged to orgasm to energize their partner.
Sure, ingesting blood and indulging in period sex may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but the tribe’s positive attitude towards menstruation is inspiring, especially in a world that mostly views that time of the month as shameful or gross.
More like this: The best vacation spots for sexually daring couples
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The best things to do in Kobe, Japan
Say the word “Kobe,” and most people think it’s just a type of beef, not a place you can visit. How this historic, cosmopolitan Japanese city manages to fly under the radar with tourists is a bit of mystery. For locals, Kobe is synonymous with style and sophistication, largely thanks to its history as an international port town. Located on Osaka Bay about 30 minutes west of Osaka proper, this city of nearly 3 million was almost completely rebuilt after the devastating Great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995 and has since blossomed into a thriving modern metropolis positioned between the mountains and the sea. Here’s why a trip to Kobe belongs on your Japan itinerary.
Kobe blends world cultures better than almost anywhere else in Japan.
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In the 1860s, Kobe was one of the first ports in Japan to be opened to foreign trade, which brought a global vibe into the city that is still very much evident. Many foreign traders, dignitaries, and merchants took up residence in the Kitano district of the city, and English, French, Dutch, and Italian influences are all visible in the area’s architecture. Many of the historic houses that were built to accommodate the growing population and economy after the port’s opening have been preserved and are open to visit, while others have been transformed into quaint cafes and stylish boutiques. You can visit these on a stroll through the portside shopping districts.
The city has also incorporated other Asian cultures seamlessly into its midst. There’s a colorful and bustling Chinatown — one of only three in Japan — which is fantastic for shopping and street food. It’s home to Japan’s first mosque, built in 1935, and the most famous Jain temple in the country. All of this makes Kobe feel genuinely welcoming and inclusive, with a much more diverse and cosmopolitan feel than most Japanese cities.
It’s one of Japan’s most sophisticated cities.
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In line with its global outlook, Kobe oozes sophistication and style. It has a great range of art galleries and museums to explore, for an insight into both ancient and modern Japan. These include the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art, home to around 10,000 pieces of mostly contemporary art, and the Kobe Fashion Museum, the country’s first fashion-themed museum.
To visit some of Kobe’s most iconic sights, head to the waterfront. Meriken Park is home to a number of outdoor art installations, including the giant, extremely Instagrammable “BE KOBE” letters and the red, hourglass-shaped Kobe Port Tower. The latter has become a symbol of the city and is particularly striking at night when illuminated. Walk by the massive Ikuta Shrine, which is thought to offer divine relationship guidance. Climb up to the 354-foot-tall observation deck or its rotating coffee shop to admire the view. Kobe Bay Cruises offers short cruises out onto the bay for a different perspective.
Some of Japan’s best sake is produced here.
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The availability of high-quality rice and mineral-rich water, coupled with a favorable climate, makes Kobe the perfect place for brewing sake. The city’s Nada district is one of Japan’s most famous sake-producing regions, and production here dates back around seven centuries. It’s home to a host of breweries, many of which run free tours and tasting sessions. Some, such as the Kiku-Masamune Sake Brewery and Kobe Shushinkan Brewery, even have small museums on site where you can learn more about the brewing process. If beer is more your style, you’ll be pleased to know Kobe also has several of its own craft breweries. For some of the best, check out Rokko Beer’s range of brews made with spring water from the local mountain range.
The city is a shopaholic’s paradise.
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Kobe’s port city status has turned the city into a destination for shoppers from around Japan. There’s a unique confluence of quantity and quality here that makes bargain hunting for brand-name goods a thing to do, particularly at the massive Harborland complex. With several large shopping malls, entertainment facilities such as a cinema and a Ferris wheel, a vast selection of bars and restaurants, and a beautiful harborside view, it’s a very pleasant place to spend an afternoon. Beyond Harborland, wander down the shopping arcades near Sannomiya and Motomachi and see what catches your eye, or browse the shops tucked away underneath the train tracks. Chinatown is a great place to pick up souvenirs, while the regular flea markets by the waterfront are perfect for antique hunting and one-of-a-kind arts and crafts.
Nature is just around the corner.
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Perfectly placed between the mountains and the sea, Kobe is in a very enviable position when it comes to outdoor access. Just a 20-minute hike from Shin-Kobe station (where the bullet train stops) you’ll find the stunningly beautiful Nunobiki Falls. These consist of four separate waterfalls, the tallest of which is an impressive 141 feet high. If you’re feeling more adventurous, continue the trek up into the rugged Rokko mountain range, which borders the city to the north, though you can take a cable car if you aren’t up to the hike. The view from the top is widely regarded as one of the three best night views in Japan, but is just as scenic during daylight hours. Kobe’s Suma Beach is one of the top beaches in the Kansai region and makes for a perfect place to unwind at sea level.
You can soak in one of Japan’s most ancient hot spring resorts.
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If it’s relaxation you’re after, Kobe has something even better than the beach. On the outskirts of the city you’ll find Arima Onsen. Nestled in the mountains, it’s one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious onsen (hot spring) resort towns. The hot spring water is rich in minerals said to help cure various skin, muscle, and joint ailments. A trip to an onsen is a must when in Japan, as bathing in these naturally heated waters is a big part of Japanese culture. It’s also one of the most relaxing things you’ll ever do. For the ultimate experience, spend a night or two in a traditional Japanese ryokan (inn). Arima serves delicious multi-course kaiseki cuisine, perfect after soaking in a private onsen bath. You’ll drift off to sleep on luxurious futon bedding which, to the uninitiated, sounds like an oxymoron — but like the city you’re visiting, this is but another misconception about Kobe and, on a larger scale, Japan.
Okay, the beef is pretty good too.
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We suppose you can’t say you’ve visited Kobe and not have tried the beef at the source. To taste the best, head to a teppanyaki restaurant. Here the chef cooks your food to order on a sizzling hot iron plate right in front of you. These spots are the best to experience the local Kobe beef and Japanese BBQ. Kobe Plaisir is popular among locals and expats, or try Wanto Burger for a more affordable option. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, Modernark and Thallo both offer entirely meat-free menus.
More like this: Everything you need to know about Japanese barbecue
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Airbnb sending grandma and grandson
Sometimes when you’re struggling to cross off a bucket list item, you just need to bring it to the attention of the right people. In this case, an 89-year-old woman is getting a free trip to Hawaii, courtesy of Airbnb.
Brad Ryan and his grandma Joy have made headlines for traveling to 29 national parks together, with the intention of eventually visiting all 61. The journey began when the two were having a conversation, wherein grandma Joy revealed she had never seen a mountain range before. That sparked their trip to the Great Smoky Mountains, and they haven’t looked back since.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Grandma Joy’s Road Trip (@grandmajoysroadtrip) on Aug 12, 2019 at 5:58pm PDT
The duo’s adventures throughout the country caught the attention of big news outlets, which caught the eye of Airbnb. The accommodation rental company wanted to make Joy’s goal a bit easier to achieve so it retweeted a CNN story covering the pair and said, “500 likes and we’ll send grandma to Hawaii.”
500 likes and we'll send grandma to Hawaii.
Universal Central Asian visa coming
Visiting the ‘Stans has historically been quite a hassle for Western travelers, both due to proximity and the fact that the region has long had extensive and expensive visa application processes in place for those even willing to make the journey. But, in another real-world exemplar of Bob Dylan’s most famous line, the times might actually be changing east of the Caspian Sea. There’s a universal Central Asian visa in the works, and much like Europe’s Schengen Area, travelers with the visa would be able to travel freely between Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan with one addition to their passport. Here’s what we know about the potential visa and what it would mean for travelers.
What exactly would this new visa entail?
Photo: evgenykz/Shutterstock
Two countries have emerged as the primary driving forces behind the new visa concept. First and foremost is Uzbekistan, following the 2016 election of Shavkat Mirziyoyev as the country’s president. Mirzyyoyev has swapped the authoritarian practices of his predecessor Islam Karimov and worked to stabilize government corruption through an anti-graft campaign, and has opened up the country’s economy to a more global approach. Trade and the free market are more tolerated, as is foreign investment and both inbound and outbound international travel, according to a report in the Financial Times. Second is Kazakhstan, whose longtime President Nursultan Nazarbayev resigned in March. Kazakhs, many of whom had longed for change after three decades of rule under Nazarbayev, have shown an eagerness to open up to travelers and trade from Central Asia and beyond. The Diplomat reported in January that in addition to Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan and Turkey may be invited to join the visa program as well.
How did the idea of a Central Asian visa originate?
Photo: Marina Rich/Shutterstock
It’s a long story with worldwide influence, but it comes down to the region’s desire to increase tourism and international trade. Uzbekistan began offering 30-day visa-free access to passport holders from 45 countries in February, though the United States was not included, in a move to increase tourism to the country. Kazakhstan made a similar move in 2017 when it abolished visa requirements from 45 countries to accommodate an international event held in the city of Astana called EXPO 2017. In both cases, the moves have worked to bring in more people. The Astana Times reported this year that since the move, 2018 tourism increased 10 percent over the year prior. Uzbekistan has seen its tourism numbers increase from one million visitors in 2016 to five million in 2018, according to a report in Azerbaijan-based Azernews. The remaining countries in the pact have undoubtedly noticed this, and as relations have improved between the countries, the idea for a universal Central Asian visa was born.
Another instigator has been China’s Belt and Road Initiative. China is in the process of building a railway through Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan that would effectively connect a direct trade route between Europe and China. The visa concept is being referred to as the “Silk Visa” because the Central Asian governments involved liken the trade and travel benefits that the visa would bring to the Silk Road, which hosted trade between Europe and China during the Han Dynasty.
Central Asian nations have long been isolated not only from the rest of the world but from each other. This is largely due to restrictive trade and travel regulations, corrupt governments in some cases, and simmering conflict and safety concerns between Afghanistan and the rest of the region.
So, when will this visa happen?
Photo: Oguz Dikbakan/Shutterstock
No exact release date has been revealed. However, both Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan revealed in The Diplomat that the visa had passed bureaucratic hurdles in the two countries and was awaiting final approval. Neither country has reported an update since the first quarter of 2019, which could be taken either as a sign that the big news is coming soon or a sign that nothing has been done since. If and when the visa gets final approval and is enacted, it would stand as a sign of unification and tolerance between the included countries and be a signal to the world that this long-overlooked region is open for business.
More like this: Central Asia is the next big trending destination. Here’s why.
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