Matador Network's Blog, page 1118

California will have another bloom

If you missed California’s first super bloom in Anza Borrego Desert State Park and Walker Canyon (maybe you just wanted to avoid the mayhem that ensued and we don’t blame you), or if you just want to have more flowers in your life, this news will be most welcome. According to Travel & Leisure, another wildflower bloom is projected for the state this summer. Rare plants and yellow, orange, red, and purple wildflowers are expected in the Eastern Sierra, such as the elevated trails of Mammoth Lakes. The San Bernardino Mountains, just outside of Los Angeles, can also expect a wildflower surge.

Although the wildflowers typically hit peak bloom in spring, the snowfall this year has been heavier than usual, meaning the mountains are taking longer to warm up and the flowers are delayed in appearing. Blake Engelhardt, forest botanist at Inyo National Forest, said, “Relatively cool temperatures through March seem to be delaying emergence of plants so far, but when it starts to warm, it should green up pretty quickly. With so much snow above 8,000 feet, peak wildflowers at the higher elevations may not be until late July or early August, when they get unburied. I’m expecting great wildflowers in the desert and sagebrush scrub on the eastern slopes in May-June.”

In the Mammoth Lakes region, there are plenty of hikes that will take you through the wildflower blooms, including the Agnew Meadows Wildflower Loop and the Mammoth Mountain Trail. At Big Bear Valley, further south and east of LA, visitors can see the wildflowers on a guided wildflower hike led by a botanist and volunteers from the Southern California Mountains Foundation. The area is home to over 20 endemic wildflowers not seen anywhere else in the world. Free guided hikes are available on weekends, and there’s also a half-mile self-guided interpretive trail with educational markers about the rare flowers.

According to Scott Eliason, botanist at the Forest Service of San Bernardino National Forest Mountain Top District, “2019 is shaping up to be a great year for wildflowers in the Big Bear area […] Wetter areas, shaded north facing slopes, and higher elevations are expected to continue to bloom well into the summer.”

Some plants have already started to peek through, though it’s still quite early and the best is yet to come. As usual, if you go and check out the blooms, make sure to stay on the trails to save the plants from being trampled on and don’t pick any.

H/T: Travel & Leisure

More like this: The 11 most stunning flower fields in the US

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Last floating florist in Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s floating flower market, the Bloemenmarkt, is comprised of flower shops located inside a row of floating barges. Or, at least, it used to. The tradition that dates back to the days when flowers arrived into the city from the countryside by way of the canals is going the way of dinosaurs, and apparently it’s thanks to overtourism.

The last floating florist at the Bloemenmarkt, Michael Saarlos, will be the last of his family to be selling flowers on the Singel canal — something they have been doing since 1943. According to him, crowds of camera-toting visitors have been blocking out serious customers, and cheap tourist-focused stalls selling magnets, clogs, and plastic tulips have been replacing the flowers shops.

Saarlos told Dutch newspaper De Trouw, “I have had enough of all the tourists who ruin my trade. If they are here with a group, I can no longer see my own customers.” Indeed, Amsterdam fields a massive number of tourists, and that number is increasing each year. An estimated 18.5 million people will visit the city this year, and by 2025, 23 million yearly tourists are projected.

Saarlos blames not only tourists, but also Amsterdam’s central borough council for failing to enforce the rule stating that only 25 percent of any stall can be used to sell non-plant related products. He also blames the increasing number of budget flights that make it easier for tourists to descend on his city in unsustainable numbers. “Those cheap flights flood the whole of Europe,” he said. “All day long the florist has to shout what I’ve written on the signs: ‘Do not photograph!’”

Amsterdam has been dealing with an overtourism problem for some time and is slowly taking measures to reduce the disturbance that too many visitors to the city creates. In December 2018, the city removed the “I amsterdam’ sign from Museum Square, and last March, the city banned guided tours of the red-light district. Previous measures include introducing tougher regulations on Airbnb, implementing a seven percent tourist tax, and restricting development of new hotels and tourist-centric shops.

H/T: The Guardian

More like this: What you should and shouldn’t do in Amsterdam’s red-light district

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Best transgender-friendly trips

Just within the past few decades, 22 countries from around the world have signed anti-discrimination laws for transgender people. And, though it may seem like a small number, these laws only point to a bigger effort taking shape in destinations around the world, spurred by the gender identity rights movement that has finally snagged an international stage over the past decade. To help guide transgender travelers organize a truly magical and safe vacation, we’ve crafted a list of the top transgender-friendly destinations in the most LGBTQ-friendly continent in the world — Europe. From the sunny, accepting shores of Mykonos to the political activism-focused lounges of Copenhagen, these are the destinations guarantee a stress-free, fun environment. Here are the top transgender-friendly travel experiences in Europe.

1. Berlin, Germany

Photo: canadastock/Shutterstock

Considered by many to be one of the most LGBTQ-friendly places in all of Europe and perhaps, in the entire world, the city of Berlin, with its plethora of queer nightlife hubs and accepting culture is the top destination in Europe for those who classify themselves as transgender. The entire city is chock full of LGBTQ bars, restaurants, and shops. Transgender tourists especially come to appreciate the incredible drag scene in the city center — primarily located at The Club, which hosts art exhibitions and drag shows. The city is also home to the world’s first queer museum, the Schwules Museum.

2. Manchester, England

Photo: trabantos/Shutterstock

It would make sense that the same city that Queer As Folk was filmed in would be accepting of all LGBTQ+ lifestyles — and in every sense, Manchester, England, lives up to the queer hype. Whether you’re more interested in dancing the nights away in one of the many clubs and bars in the city (like G-A-Y or Poptastic), or you’d rather pay homage to the history of the LGBTQ community in Manchester by visiting landmarks like the Alan Turing Memorial or the Transgender Remembrance Memorial, any amount of time spent in this city is sure to feel incredibly special.

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Photo: kavalenkava/Shutterstock

At its very core, Amsterdam is an incredibly accepting city — as is most of the Netherlands. And, when you combine this accepting nature with the many LGBTQ-friendly excursions and events that are constantly taking place around the city, it’s a must-see (and safe) destination for transgender individuals. If you are planning on being there over summer, be sure that you make it to Amsterdam Pride. The parade production runs on boats in the canal instead of the typical floats you’d see at any other Pride parade. If you can’t make it to Pride, then perhaps you can make it to Milkshake, a queer music festival that is designed to be accepting of all, held this year on July 27 and 28.

4. London, England

Photo: ZGPhotography/Shutterstock

For those looking to dance and admire art while on vacation, London is the ideal LGBTQ-friendly destination, offering a perfect combination of both at venues like Dalston Superstore, which serves up queer art exhibits and musical performances on the regular — as well as The Glory, a queer and transgender-friendly venue that hosts film screenings, cabaret nights, and performance art on the regular. Aside from these experiences, the city of London also has a plethora of LGBTQ bookstores and sex shops that will allow you to explore your limits while on vacation.

5. Paris, France

Photo: Catarina Belova/Shutterstock

While not all parts of France prove to be accepting of transgender people, the city of love is another story entirely — especially if you stay within Paris’ gay district, located by the Hotel de Ville metro in the Le Marais neighborhood. To fully enjoy the LGBTQ scene in Paris, it’s best to start your vacation by taking a nightlife-themed or historical-themed tour of the city through Gay Locals, a local LGBTQ tour agency. That way, you’ll be able to more accurately plan your time in the city — whether that means checking out Oscar Wilde’s grave or grabbing drinks at the queer OPEN Café.

6. Dublin, Ireland

Photo: Madrugada Verde/Shutterstock

Though Ireland has only allowed same-sex marriage since 2015, the city of Dublin has been accepting of all lifestyles (including those of transgender-identifying individuals) for much longer. If you’re a fan of theater, then you’ll enjoy the city’s International Gay Theatre Festival, held every May, boasting some of the best LGBTQ cinema in the entire world. If you prefer watching drag performances, The George is a must-see, a bar crowded most nights with enchanting and famous drag performers. Or, if you’d prefer to hang around a more sophisticated crowd, be sure to check out Pantibar, owned and operated by Ireland’s most famous drag queen, Panti Bliss.

7. Mykonos, Greece

Photo: Aetherial Images/Shutterstock

If you’re looking to soak in some sunshine and spectacular views in an accepting and safe place, head to Mykonos, Greece. Especially if you’re looking to meet other LGBTQ-identifying folks, be sure to pay a visit to the island during the XLSIOR Festival, taking place August 21-28, which allows members of the LGBTQ community to meet each other in an accepting environment. If you can’t make it to Mykonos during that week in August, then instead book your stay at the LGBT-friendly Elysium Hotel and spend your nights sipping cocktails at places like JackieO.

8. Sitges and Barcelona, Spain

Photo: Lukasz Szwaj/Shutterstock

As it turns out, two of the most accepting LGBTQ destinations in Europe are only within an hour’s drive of one another. While visiting Barcelona, it’s essential to check out the International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival, typically held during the month of October. Then, in the gothic quarter of the city, you’ll find Antinous, an internationally celebrated LGBTQ bookstore stocked with comics, travel guides, and other oddities that promote LGBTQ culture. A short hour drive from Barcelona is the city of Sitges, which has celebrated nude beaches that are welcoming to everyone in the rainbow.

9. Lisbon, Portugal

Photo: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

As far as LGBTQ destinations are concerned, the major cities in Portugal are often overlooked — despite the fact that Lisbon is one of Europe’s most accepting cities on the map. While there, it’s essential that every transgender person visit the Finalmente Club — the first gay club established in the city, in 1976, serving up some of the most iconic drag shows in Europe. Those looking to enjoy all that Lisbon’s nightlife scene has to offer should also pay a visit to Bar 106, a popular establishment for the transgender community, as the club encourages crossdressing and expressing yourself in whatever way you wish.

10. Malta

Photo: Nicholas Courtney/Shutterstock

Since 2015, the local transgender community in Malta have been protected under anti-discrimination laws based on gender identity — meaning that yes, this destination is one that proves to be safe and fun for transgender tourists. For drinks and conversation, head to the Michelangelo Club Lounge, a very intimate location that has great dance music and ample space for getting to know the LGBTQ locals. From there, tourists can head to the Birdcage Lounge for cabaret shows, live music, a cocktail bar, and plenty of drag entertainment.

11. Copenhagen, Denmark

Photo: Kalamurzing/Shutterstock

Especially since Denmark was the first country to approve a number of rights for the LGBTQ community and generally has a more liberal approach to matters that pertain to sex and sexuality, Copenhagen is an essential bucket-list destination for transgender people. To begin with, a must-visit spot, especially for those who identify as transgender, is Warehouse9, a performance space that focuses on the political issues behind gender identity through burlesque, dance, literature, art, activism, and music. After attending a show at Warehouse 9, head for drinks and conversation at the LGBTQ institution Kvindehuset.

12. Cologne, Germany

Photo: William Perugin/Shutterstock

Move over, Berlin — Cologne might just be the most LGBTQ-friendly city in all of Germany. More than any other destination on the list, Cologne has the highest number of hotels, stores, bars, and even saunas that specifically cater to the ever-growing LGBTQ scene in the city. If you happen to be in Cologne during the weekend of July 5, then be sure to visit Cologne for its annual Pride Festival, proving to be one of the biggest in Europe.

13. Brighton, England

Photo: Michaelasbest/Shutterstock

Also called England’s unofficial “gay capital,” Brighton offers an incredibly accepting environment for every LGBTQ person. No matter where you may fall on the queer rainbow, take the time to embark upon the Piers & Queers Tour, an LGBTQ history tour offered by Only in Brighton. It’s also imperative that transgender tourists pay a visit to Revenge, a bar in Brighton that has served the LGBTQ community in the city for over 20 years, with a sprawling premises and themed nights.

14. Stockholm, Sweden

Photo: Adisa/Shutterstock

Contrary to other destinations across Europe (and the world) Stockholm is home to the Berns Hotel, famous for being the city’s unofficial “gay hotel,” with two delectable restaurants, a club in the basement, and a concert venue where, once upon a time, Diana Ross and the Supremes performed. If you find that you can drag yourself away from this enchanting place, then be sure to head to Mälarpaviljongen, a scenic restaurant floating over three docks and run by owners who are actively involved in the LGBTQ scene in the city. Then head out for a night of fun at King Kong Sthlm — a club that has an underground feel, often devoid of tourists and infused with all of the charms of the city’s LGBTQ natives.


More like this: #TravelingWhileTrans: How to stay safe while seeing the world

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What and when is the full Pink Moon

It might not sound as cool or dramatic as January’s Super Blood Wolf Moon, but the Pink Moon is still worth marking your calendar for. This Friday, April 19 — at 4:12 PM (PST) to be exact — this year’s Full Pink Moon will reach peak fullness. The name is deceptive, however. It’s not actually pink, it’s just the nickname Native Americans gave to April’s full moon, back when seasons were measured by the lunar calendar. It is also known as the Sprouting Grass Moon, the Egg Moon, and the Fish moon.

The name “Pink Moon” derives from the pink ground phlox, or “moss pink,” an early spring flower. Instead of actually glowing pink, it instead appears yellow, orange, or red, depending on the atmospheric conditions. A phenomenon called the “moon illusion” causes the moon to appear larger during this time as well.

The Pink Moon will rise on Thursday night but won’t become 100 percent visible until Friday morning. To get the best view of the moon, watch from a hill or skyscraper, and as with any form of stargazing, seek an area with low light pollution. Look west at moonset (6:58 PM PST) early morning on Friday or east at moonrise (8:21 PM PST) later in the day.

H/T: SFGate

More like this: 11 important Native American heritage sites in the US that you need to visit

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Wildlife watching Patagonia

For nature lovers and outdoors enthusiasts, South America’s Patagonian territory is often listed near the top of bucket-list destinations. The southernmost regions often get the most coverage for noteworthy places like Torres del Paine. While Patagonia’s mountains, glaciers, and icefields are spectacular, Patagonia in fact sprawls an astounding 402,000 square miles across two countries and 11 provinces. There is much more to discover in this vast landscape. For unforgettable wildlife sightings — from penguins and orcas to rheas and guanacos — head to the Valdes Peninsula.

Where is the Valdes Peninsula?

Photo: Stephanie Frias

The Valdes Peninsula is located in the northern Chubut province of Argentina along the Atlantic coast and offers some of the most unique terrains in Patagonia. Not only is it one of the most accessible parts of Patagonia, reachable in 15 hours by car or four hours by plane. It also offers the most idyllic weather conditions of the Patagonia region. Most notably, it has an abundance of unique and rare animals, particularly in the category of ocean wildlife.

What is the Valdes Peninsula?

Photo: Stephanie Frias

The Valdes Peninsula is an anchor-shaped land mass covering 1,400 square miles and a UNESCO site regarded as an important marine reserve. It protects Patagonian land and sea animals along with their natural habitats, breeding, and birthing grounds. The landscapes consist of barren, low altitude semi-arid desert lands, salt lakes, extensive beaches, and the massive coves of Golfo Nuevo and Golfo San José. Very few people live here, most of them in the tiny port village of Puerto Piramides. Unlike other, chillier parts of Patagonia, the Valdes Peninsula enjoys an average annual temperature of 51 degrees Fahrenheit while summertime temps can skyrocket to 95 degrees between December and March.

Patagonian wildlife on the Valdes Peninsula

Photo: Stephanie Frias

One of the most important draws of navigating the pristine landscapes of Patagonia is the chance to see some of the world’s most beautiful, strange, and precious wildlife species. While many travelers enjoy making the trip to the southern tip of the nearly Arctic region in the hopes of seeing such specimens, the Valdes Peninsula offers an alternative destination with greater odds of success. It’s nearly guaranteed that adventurers will come into contact with Magellanic penguins, southern seal elephants, South American sea lions, and southern right whales from the seaside in the appropriate season.

The interior offers rheas (an ostrich-like bird), guanacos (wild ancestors to domesticated llamas), maras (large, rabbit-like rodents), hairy armadillos, and an astonishing 181 recorded species of birds, including 66 migratory varieties. Rarer animals are also spotted with reasonable frequency, like the unique pod of surfing orcas (killer whales), Commerson’s dolphins (panda dolphins), dusky dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, Chilean flamingos, Antarctic doves, and peregrine falcons.

When to go: best weather and breeding/birthing seasons

Photo: Stephanie Frias

You can visit the Valdes Peninsula at any time of the year, yet certain seasons are more ideal for enjoying the beaches or for seeing specific animals. To see the endangered southern right whales, visit between the months of June and December. For the Magellanic penguins, between September and March. For dolphins, go from December to March, and for orcas from September to mid-April. Elephant seals, sea lions, birds, and land animals can be enjoyed year round.

If you had to choose one month to see the widest variety of marine life — including southern right whales, Magellanic penguins, southern seal elephants, South American sea lions, orcas, and most bird species — it would be December. December is also typically the warmest month, when it’s possible to swim, snorkel, paddle board, kayak, kitesurf, and more. By January, the southern right whales leave the bay area but the presence of orcas, and their offspring, becomes more prominent as they arrive to hunt the elephant seals, sea lions, and penguins birthing on the coastlines.

Where to stay: Puerto Pirámides and Puerto Madryn

Photo: Stephanie Frias

If you want to visit the Valdes Peninsula on a quick trip, you can stay in nearby Puerto Madryn, approximately a one hour drive south of the peninsula. The city has countless hotel options, as well as tour operators who can take you up to the peninsula. To really make the most of this special place, though, you should give yourself four to seven days on the peninsula.

Photo: Stephanie Frias

The port village of Puerto Pirámides offers many lodging opportunities, with the top choice being Oceano Patagonia. The small boutique-style lodge boasts impeccable eco-practices and large-apartment style suites (including stocked kitchens) right on the sand in front of the main beach on Puerto Pirámides. They can also organize your entire stay — from whale watching tours, water sports excursions, lands safaris, and restaurant recommendations. Expect plush beds and linens, modern accommodations with WiFi, air conditioning, DirecTV, and direct beach access. The hotel offers both pet-friendly and family-friendly rooms, so be sure to mention if traveling with kids or pooches.


More like this: Chile’s Lake District: The underrated alternative to southern Patagonia

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Most fascinating mosques in China

China has an ambiguous stance in regards to institutionalized faith. On the one hand, the People’s Republic recognizes five religions — Buddhism, Catholicism, Daoism, Islam, and Protestantism — and protects freedom of religious belief under its constitution, but on the other, the Council on Foreign Relations reports that “China is home to one of the largest populations of religious prisoners, likely numbering in the tens of thousands.”

With about 22 million believers, Muslims comprise less than two percent of China’s population, divided predominantly into 10 different ethnicities. The two largest Chinese Muslim groups are the Hui and the Uyghurs. While the former — mostly settled in the central part of the country in the Ningxia Autonomous Region and the Gansu, Qinghai, and Yunnan provinces — has managed to integrate well within Chinese society, the latter, a Turkic minority of 10 million people living in the Xinjiang Autonomous Region in the northwest, continues to suffer from severe repression and persecution.

Last summer, the Hui made the news for protesting in the thousands against the announced demolition of the newly built Weizhou Grand Mosque; however, the Uyghurs have faced much more serious attacks over the past decades. Religious practice in Xinjiang is closely controlled by the Chinese authorities since militant Islamic separatist groups asking for the independence of East Turkestan have formed in the region, and the conflict between government forces and local activists has turned violent on various occasions. Xinjiang is said to be one of the most heavily policed areas in the world and reports of human rights abuses abound. In 2017, it was reported that 200 mosques had been destroyed in the area and 500 more were scheduled for demolition. It is also estimated by the United Nations that nearly three million Muslims have been detained in hidden “reeducation camps,” which are compared to “gulags” by the international press.

Within this strictly regulated society, Chinese Muslims continue, nevertheless, to express their cultural heritage in houses of worship. Here are seven of the most fascinating examples of mosques in China that are still standing.

1. The Great Mosque of Xi’an

Photo: LMspencer/Shutterstock

Said to be the largest and oldest mosque in China, the Great Mosque of Xi’an was founded in 742 AD in the old imperial capital located at the eastern opening of the Silk Road (although today’s structure dates back to the 14th century). This building, divided into four courtyards and surrounded by well-tended gardens, blends traditional Chinese architectural elements — such as wooden arches topped with traditional, glazed-tiled, pagoda roofs — with Islamic art like stelae carved with Arabic, Chinese, and Persian inscriptions.

2. Id Kah Mosque, Kashgar

Photo: Abd. Halim Hadi/Shutterstock

Kashgar is another city of historical importance for its position on the ancient Silk Road as it’s located in the westernmost corner of Xinjiang, at the crossroads of China, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Pakistan. Marking the heart of the city is the yellow Id Kah Mosque, one of the most highly regarded places of worship for the local Uyghur population. The mosque dates back to 1442 and is the largest mosque in all of Xinjiang, with a courtyard that can hold up to 20,000 people during religious celebrations.

3. Niujie Mosque, Beijing

Photo: Munzir Rosdi/Shutterstock

Erected during the Liao Dynasty in 996 and rebuilt centuries later after Genghis Khan’s armies destroyed it, the Niujie Mosque of China’s capital city is the oldest and largest mosque in Beijing with 42 different rooms, including a massive prayer hall that can contain up to 1,000 worshippers. This religious and historical site also houses artifacts related to the Islamic tradition in China. Among the most significant ones are the stone tablets carved by Emperor Kangxi (1654-1722) that freed the Hui people from the accusations of conspiracy to overthrow the Qing dynasty.

4. Dongguan Giant Mosque, Xining

Photo: GuoZhongHua/Shutterstock

The Dongguan Giant Mosque in Xining was originally constructed during the initial stage of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) but has been renovated multiple times over the centuries, with the last restoration done in 1998. The complex surrounds an ample courtyard and features a double set of minarets, the taller ones in typical Islamic architectural style and the older turquoise pair topped by traditional upturned roofs.

5. Dongsi Mosque, Beijing

Photo: Saifudeen/Shutterstock

With a prayer hall built entirely in wood, the second largest mosque in Beijing is a unique sight. Like the Great Mosque of Xi’an, the Dongsi Mosque is a mix of Imperial architecture and Islamic art. The origin of the Dongsi Mosque is still debated today, with some saying that it was erected in 1356 during the Yuan dynasty and others dating it back to 1447 when general Chen You allowed for its construction under Ming rule. The prayer hall is capable of welcoming 500 devouts, and the library it houses contains valuable Islamic manuscripts, including a hand-written copy of the Quran dating from the Yuan Dynasty (1279-1368).

6. Emin Minaret and Su Gong Ta Mosque, Turpan

Photo: suronin/Shutterstock

Although it looks like it would fit in perfectly in Uzbekistan, this mosque and its minaret are in the city of Turpan, in a scorching valley 120 miles from Urumqi, Xinjiang’s capital city. The Emin Minaret, a 144-feet tall tower built in honor of general Emin Khoja, who fought for the unification of China, is the tallest in the country. Erected in 1777-78, the Emin Minaret was designed in a typical conical shape and built with burnt brick. Next to the minaret, which you cannot enter, is the sand-colored Su Gong Ta Mosque, one of the largest of the Xinjiang Autonomous Region. According to Reuters, Turpan is home to a large Muslim detention camp.

7. Weizhou Grand Mosque, Wuzhong

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The Weizhou Grand Mosque, located in the Ningxia province where a large population of Hui Muslims lives, still stands after the demolition plan of the Chinese government was delayed due to thousands of protestors asking for it to be saved. The massive white building with several traditional domes topped with crescent moons and minarets was said to have been erected without the proper permits, but it appears that the Arabic architectural style of the mosque and the plan of the Chinese government to sinicize religion may be the real reason behind the demolition orders.


More like this: The 7 most beautiful mosques from around the world

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World’s largest airplane takes flies

If you thought commercial jets were huge, you haven’t seen this dual-fuselage aircraft that just took flight over the Mojave Desert in California. Built by the company Stratolaunch, this 500,000-pound aircraft, with a 385-foot wingspan, is now the world’s largest airplane by wingspan. The test flight, which took place on April 13, was the plane’s first-ever time in the air, and it circled the skies for about two and a half hours before returning to the ground.

No, this plane won’t be taking you on your next vacation. It was built by reassembling two used Boeing jets, features six turbofan engines, and was designed to carry rockets up to 35,000 feet, where they can then blast commercial satellites into orbit. This is considered more efficient than launching from the ground, and will allow crews to bypass bad weather that may lead to delays.

Photo: Stratolaunch

Although the plane only reached an altitude of 17,000 feet, the test flight was considered a success. According to test pilot Evan Thomas, “The flight itself was smooth, which is exactly what you want the first flight to be. And for the most part, the airplane flew as predicted, which is again exactly what we want.”

Jean Floyd, chief executive of Stratolaunch, said at a press briefing, “All of you’ve been very patient and very tolerant over the years waiting for us to get this big bird off the ground, and we finally did it.”

H/T: Thrillist

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Free Sandals trip to nurses and more

If Mother’s Day, Teacher Appreciation Week, National Nurses’ Day, and Military Month aren’t already on your radar, they should be. Not just because it’s important to honor those who provide essential services to our community, but because Sandals Resorts is celebrating by giving away a seven-day, six-night vacation for two to 31 lucky winners. Every day in May, Sandals will randomly select one deserving teacher, nurse, military member, or mother, and give them a free six-night luxury vacation for two at any Sandals or Beaches Resort of their choice (flights not included). Winners will be announced every Friday during the month of May.

In a press release, Sandals said, “In honor of #MothersDay, #TeacherAppreciationWeek, #NationalNursesDay and #MilitaryMonth, the Luxury Included resort company built on love is sharing its appreciation to 31 of these hardworking individuals with a chance to win a vacation through its #SandalsMaycation giveaway!”

Winners will enjoy all the amenities of a Sandals vacation, including luxury suites, five-star meals, unlimited drinks, land and water sports, and exclusive butler service. You will also have your choice of a wide range of Sandals resorts, spread across some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful islands, including Jamaica, Antigua, the Bahamas, St. Lucia, Barbados, and Turks & Caicos.

Sandals is calling on people to nominate a nurse, teacher, mother, active military member, or veteran worthy of a free vacation. You can even nominate yourself. Just visit the website, submit a photo of the nominee, and a 250-character explanation of why they — or you — should receive a vacation.


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Man dies zip-lining in Thailand

Zip-lining has become such a popular tourist pastime around the world, it’s easy to forget it can be dangerous. On Saturday, a 25-year-old Canadian man fell 40 feet to his death after a zip-line cable snapped in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It occurred while the man was on vacation with his girlfriend.

The course, called Flight of the Gibbon, is advertised as one of the longest zip-lines in Asia, consists of 33 different platforms, and is often dubbed as one of the best outdoor adventures in Chiang Mai. It has been temporarily shut down while an investigation takes place. Authorities are looking into whether the zip-line’s weight limit was exceeded, or if there was any negligence by the operators.

This isn’t the first time something like this has happened at Flight of the Gibbon. In 2016, the zip-line was shut down after three Israeli tourists collided with each other and fell to the ground. Their injuries, however, were not fatal.

H/T: BBC

More like this: The 5 most epic zip lines in the world

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The best places for wine trip

Wine vacations aren’t nearly as bougie or costly as they sound. Today, you can find wine around the world that tastes good and is affordable — especially when you go to the winery itself. It doesn’t hurt that literally every state in the nation has a wine region now, so there’s plenty to choose from. Napa can get by on its name, everyone else has to vie for wine tourism dollars in other ways.

This makes you, the wine-drinking tourist, the winner, as everywhere from British Columbia to South America is luring in visitors with rock-bottom prices. Or at least prices that aren’t obscenely jacked up. We conferred with Heath Porter, an advanced sommelier who, in addition to previously heading the wine program at The Greenbrier, currently takes people around the world on his Heathenwinetours. He hipped us to some of the best, low-cost wine destinations in the world that will be worth hitting this summer. Though some might cost a bit to get there, all are a great value once you’re on the ground.

Oliver Osoyoos, British Columbia

Photo: EB Adventure Photography/Shutterstock

Not that British Columbia is ever lacking for credit for its spectacular scenery, but one area Americans don’t hear a lot about is the Okanogan Valley, just north of central Washington State. A few miles north of the crossing, you’ll happen upon one of the most spectacular wine regions in the world, where the towering Cascade and Columbia mountains contain a lush valley ripe with vineyards, restaurants, and reasonably priced hotels.

Wineries are set mostly on the sides of the mountains, so you can begin the day in full sun at Road 13 then enjoy sunset at Burrowing Owl on the opposite side of the valley. In between you can hit spots like Rustico Farms and Cellars, a western-themed winery. And Church and State, which boasts wines with clever — and sometimes profane — labels. Tastings are rarely over $9. Dinners and the winery restaurants won’t run you much over $40 a person. All that, and you can burn off all the calories, if you like, over 12-mile Osoyoos Lake.

Cachapoal Valley, Chile

Once you’ve managed to get there, Chile is one of the great wine-value destinations in the world, where full steak dinners cost less than $30 and gourmet barbecues with full wine tastings are about $75. You’ll find said barbecue at Vina San Pedro, near the town of Requinoa. Here you’ll visit a sprawling estate at the base of the mountains, where daytime meals are filled with hearty grilled meats and wine, and evening meals are held in a dining space with views over the valley.

Carmenere and cabernet sauvignon are the region’s best grapes, and you’ll find great wines made with those two grape styles throughout the valley at spots like Vina Anakena, Chateau Los Boldos, and Vina Chateau. Tastings won’t run much over $10, with bottles in the $20 range. When you’re hungry, head to Vina Montes, where Frances Mallmann helms Fuegos de Apalta, a restaurant that feels almost as if you’re eating in the middle of the vineyard. This part of the trip isn’t cheap, and you’ll likely drop about $75 a meal. But compared to any Mallmann spot in the US, it’s still a bargain.

Finger Lakes, New York

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It’s not much of a secret that the Finger Lakes have become one of the top wine destinations in the Northeast over the past half-decade or so. But the flocks of urbanites heading to western New York aren’t just following a trend; the fall colors and massive gorges of the region are worth visiting with or without wine. But with great juice flowing, it makes the trip all the more enticing.

Far beyond the stereotypical ice wine found in cold climates, producers in the Finger Lakes make outstanding pinot noir at both Element and Hearts and Hands Wine Company. If you’re more into the bubbly stuff, Porter suggested checking out Red Tail Ridge, or go for the tasting at Kemmeter, which he said “might change your life about riesling.” When it’s time to eat, head to Dano’s Heuriger in Lodi, which serves Viennese wine-inspired food using wines from the area. Or the FLX Wienery in Dundee, where the “high end, low brow food” has $7 burgers and almost nothing over $13.

Cupertino, California

We’ll just get this out of the way now…nothing, we mean nothing, in Silicon Valley should ever be referred to as “cheap.” But if you’re in the Bay Area on vacation and want to go wine tasting, your nearest, closest value is just outside San Jose in Apple’s hometown of Cupertino. Here, you can visit the famous Ridge Vineyards, which sits on a hilltop in the Santa Cruz Mountains overlooking the valley and Apple’s spaceship headquarters. If you’re not trying to taste the legendary Monte Bello, you can do a tasting for $10 and bring a bottle home for under $25.

Further down the mountain in Los Altos, stop by Testarossa, a far more laid-back experience than Ridge with a sunny front patio and a cool, castle-like tasting room. Housed in the old Novitiate Winery that dates back to 1888, this one-time Jesuit winery produced church wines in a gravity flow system that’s still in use today. And the historic old stone structure is the fourth-oldest continuously operating winery in California. After a few drinks here head into downtown Los Gatos to The Bywater, the best New Orleans-style food you’re going to get outside the southeast.

Walla Walla, Washington

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Though Walla Walla has gracefully raised itself from prison town to wine destination, it still hasn’t priced out regular people. The region has been making wine for nearly 150 years, but didn’t get much commercial recognition until the 1970s, when Leonetti Cellar opened its doors. In the years since the region has birthed acclaimed wineries like Seven Hills, L’Ecole No. 41, and Saviah Cellars.

Wine fame or not, this is still an agricultural town, which means it retains its country vibe from the newly refurbished main street to the dusty roads that lead out to the vineyards. This also means you’ll be able to get loads of farm-fresh food here at spots like Frog Hollow Farm, a produce stand and restaurant that fuses both masterfully. Though if you’re looking to pair your wine with a first-rate cut of beef, make sure you plan a meal at the Walla Walla Steak Company.

Niagara, Ontario

Ask anyone who’s been to Niagara Falls, and they’ll almost universally tell you to go to the Canadian side. Partly because the views are better and there’s stuff like jet boat rides and a brewery. But also because once you get away from the Falls, you’re in one of the better wine regions in the Northeast. If the weather is cooperating, you can take a bike through the relatively flat vineyards to Hidden Bench and Big Head wineries, where $15 bottles of pinot noir taste like they should cost about twice that.

When it’s time to eat, stop into Niagara-on-the-lake, where you’ll not only get plenty of those aforementioned jet boat rides but also fantastic winery food at Trius or Peller Estates. Then, if you feel like mixing alcohols, head out on the Niagara Ale Trail and visit some of the region’s breweries. Even if you’re not a big drinker this region is a great value, combining a trip to a world landmark and wine tasting in one perfect weekend.

Rioja, Spain

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The Rioja wine region of Spain has some of the most breathtaking wines and wineries in the world. Case in point: spots like Bodegas LAN, the ultra-modern Bodegas Ysios, and Marques de Riscal.

Rioja’s wineries are unlike any in the world, where you can tour a 19th-century foundational winery at Marques de Murrietta’s Ygay Castle, then down two wines paired with “degustation aperitifs” for about $42. Eating in La Rioja won’t cost you much either, as hopping around the old quarter of Logrono will find you knee-deep in pintxo bars (think tapas, but for northern Spain), where you’ll rarely drop more than a couple of euros on a mini-sandwich.


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