Matador Network's Blog, page 1274

How to work while traveling

Working while traveling is nothing new, but, according to a study published this week, it keeps getting easier every year. The teams behind freelance gig website Fiverr and Remote Year, a brand that helps employees take a gap year and travel the world while keeping their job, conducted some in-depth research on the modern workplace. The results showed a definitive trend: today’s workers increasingly refuse to be stuck behind a desk.

The study proves beyond doubt that there are major shifts afoot in how, and more importantly where, people get their work done these days. The number of remote workers is rising rapidly, with 25 percent of the US workforce now working remotely at least part time and 11 percent of these prioritize their ability to travel as being a driving force behind their decision to work remotely.

But, being a digital nomad does come with its struggles. About a third described their biggest challenge as being an inability to ‘shut down’ from work when the laptop closes, and hiding in a home office tends to strip much of the ‘team’ mentality — 30 percent cited a feeling of loneliness.

To contrast the solitude, however, is the increasing ability to stay connected even without physically being in the same place. The rise of team communication tools like Slack and conference software such as Zoom keep teams close-knit no matter where the staff members are located. All in all, remote workers are extremely happy with the freedom and flexibility in their schedule and the option to choose where they post up for the day.

If you want to get away from behind your desk, here are two actionable steps you can take before the weekend. First, slyly forward this study over to your boss. Second, dive into Remote Year’s application page. As the study suggests, the future of work is remote, and it never hurts to be ahead of the curve.

Photo: And.Co

More like this: 7 steps to take if you want to become a digital nomad

The post This study proves that you can totally travel while you work appeared first on Matador Network.

Make money living at Mexican resorts

Some jobs are all about the money, and others are all about the perks. This job is definitely about both. Vidanta, a collection of six luxury destination resorts across Mexico, is looking for a brand ambassador, who will be compensated not only with a generous $120,000, but also with a life of luxury. The brand ambassador will act as Vidanta’s on-location social media influencer, not only experiencing the comfort and activities offered at the resorts, but also compiling social content. The goal is for the ambassador to inspire travelers through their experiences, like breakfast in bed, spa treatments, poolside cocktails, whale shark swim-alongs, and taste-testing dishes prepared by some of Mexico’s finest chefs.

Iván Chávez, executive vice president of Grupo Vidanta, said in a statement, “The lucky applicant will immerse themselves in each of our resort destinations; from uncovering ancient Mayan ruins, hidden eateries, and underwater cenotes to discovering the hottest new restaurants and nightclubs.” Destinations include Nuevo Vallarta, Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, Acapulco, Puerto Peñasco, and Puerto Vallarta.

The ideal candidate should have sales or hospitality experience, a love for travel, and a willingness to relocate to Mexico. The person selected will undergo an extensive training program designed to prepare them for the brand ambassador role. To apply, visit worldsbestjob.com and submit your resume, along with an optional 60-second video, before Sunday, October 21st.

H/T: Travel & Leisure

More like this: Here are ten jobs that allow you to travel the world

The post Get paid $120,000 to spend a year living in Mexico’s most amazing resorts appeared first on Matador Network.

Humpback whale epic leap by boat

Everyone who goes on a whale watch considers themselves lucky to catch a glimpse of a whale, however brief or distant. Visions of whales breaching next to the boat, or many whales swimming alongside each other, water spouting from their blowholes, fill the imagination of eager whale watch tour passengers, but rarely do such sights become realities. That’s why this particular whale watch tour group was so fortunate.

Recently, the TAZ Whale Watching tour near Gustavus, Alaska was treated to a rare spectacle that’s sure to be the object of envy of many. While the group was looking at a whale swimming in the distance, they got distracted and didn’t see what was coming straight toward their vessel — until a humpback whale suddenly leapt from the water and into the air.

It sent quite a splash over the tiny whale watching boat, but the passengers probably didn’t mind. Getting a little damp is a small price to pay for witnessing this feat of aquatic athleticism. Check out the video of the spectacular close encounter below.

H/T: Insider

More like this: In search of whales

The post This humpback whale’s epic leap caught whale watchers by surprise appeared first on Matador Network.

Cool Japanese toilets all over

Japanese toilets have attained somewhat of a legendary status. Tales of the futuristic facilities, robot-like voice features, and sophisticated flushing mechanisms are everywhere, but it’s not just the crazy technology that makes them unique — it’s their architectural design. To make sure the world knows about how cool Japanese public bathrooms are, someone created an Instagram account dedicated solely to them, and while it might sound strange, we must admit that they look pretty cool.

A post shared by H.Nakamura (@toilets_a_go_go) on Jan 18, 2018 at 9:55pm PST

A post shared by H.Nakamura (@toilets_a_go_go) on Sep 19, 2017 at 2:55am PDT

A post shared by H.Nakamura (@toilets_a_go_go) on Jun 10, 2017 at 11:13pm PDT

The pictures were gathered during account creator H.Nakamura’s travels throughout the country. And given his accumulation of nearly 6,000 followers, it’s clear that many are delighting in the beautiful weirdness of the Japanese toilet scene.

A post shared by H.Nakamura (@toilets_a_go_go) on Aug 8, 2017 at 6:21pm PDT

A post shared by H.Nakamura (@toilets_a_go_go) on May 25, 2017 at 12:44am PDT

A post shared by H.Nakamura (@toilets_a_go_go) on Sep 7, 2017 at 4:19pm PDT

Each entry comes with a brief observation by Nakamura-san, usually regarding the shape, or the interaction of the building with its environment. The general location is also given for each, so if you can go on a toilet-themed tour of Japan, if you really want to.

H/T: TimeOut

More like this: The nominees for best public bathroom in America are out, and you’ll want to pee in all of them

The post This Instagram account is dedicated solely to Japanese toilets appeared first on Matador Network.

Jet-setting pets of Instagram

Everyone knows about travel bloggers, but in recent years we’ve seen a new trend taking the internet by storm — jet set pets. Traveling pets are an Instagram phenomenon, with an increasing number of furry friends having their own social media accounts to document their worldwide travels. But which have traveled the furthest? We decided to find out once and for all, taking 15 of the most popular jet set pets on Instagram and tracking their journeys around the globe. Maybe you’ll find some inspiration to take your furry friend with you on your next holiday.

Photo: Canvas Holidays

Django and Chloe (@django_and_chloe)

Photo: Canvas Holidays

Taking our top spot are Django and Chloe, the adorable dachshund and Parson Russell Terrier duo. Based in Rio de Janeiro, this pair has racked up some serious air miles over the years, visiting the USA, France, Portugal, Spain, Germany, Austria, Sweden, and more. They clock in at almost 32,000 miles per year — that’s more than double the distance traveled by the average Brit!*

Max and Louise (@max_et_louise)

Photo: Canvas Holidays

Coming in second place is another delightful pair of Parson Russell Terriers, Max and Louise. Born in France, Max and Louise have spent time living in Lisbon and São Paulo before settling down in Paris. As well as traveling the globe, this duo lists “shopping, fine cuisine, and water sports: as some of their interests — it’s a hard life, eh?

Loki (@loki)

Photo: Canvas Holidays

With a whopping 1.7 million followers on Instagram, Loki is the most popular pet on our list. An adrenaline junkie just like his owner, this good boy has been seen paddle-boarding, canoeing, and even snowboarding, with his owner capturing everything on bodycam!

Burma (@burmaadventurecat)

Photo: Canvas Holidays

A chance encounter with a stranger carrying a box of kittens led to army veteran Stephen Simmons adopting Burma on the spot. The pair has been inseparable ever since, trekking across the USA, taking hikes, swimming in lakes, and climbing mountains alongside Stephen’s adventure-loving dog, Puppi.

Maddie (@thiswildidea)

Photo: Canvas Holidays

Coonhound Maddie has become so Insta-famous during her travels that she’s also been the star of two books. The books document Maddie and owner Theron Humphrey’s journeys across the USA from a (rather sleepy) dog’s perspective.

Momo (@momosface)

Photo: Canvas Holidays

As well as traveling across North America, well-trained border collie Momo has visited the UK, Portugal, Spain, and more, but you’d never tell. His Instagram account (@momosface) is literally just made up of shots of… Momo’s face — simple really.

Henry and Baloo (@henrythecoloradodog)

Photo: Canvas Holidays

Unlikely pairing Henry and Baloo first became friends in October 2017 and have been adventuring across the Colorado wilderness ever since. From the looks of their Instagram account, it seems like Henry’s head is Baloo’s favorite place to perch.

Yoda (@mariavanonen)

Photo: Canvas Holidays

Based in Helsinki, photogenic Yoda has traveled further north than any other pet on our list, narrowly beating Loki with an adventure to Napapiiri in the Arctic Circle in April last year. But it’s not all snow and ice; Yoda has also traveled around Europe, visiting Italy, France, Germany, Switzerland, and more.

Mister Bentley (@mrbentley_thedog)

Photo: Canvas Holidays

One of the most dapper pets on our list, English bulldog Mr. Bentley definitely knows how to travel in style. He regularly accompanies his owner on helicopter trips and even has his own pilot’s uniform.

Norm (@jeremyveach)

Photo: Canvas Holidays

Dubbed the “Kim Kardashian of the canine world,” Norm the pug has made a name for himself thanks to his fantastic range of dog selfies. His owner, professional photographer Jeremy Veach, can take some of the credit too — we suppose.

Aspen and Koa (@samanthabrookephoto)

Photo: Canvas Holidays

What’s better than one golden retriever? Two of course! This pair of photogenic pups regularly accompany their owner on camping trips and are more than happy to pose for some adorable photos along the way.

Aspen (@aspenthemountainpup)

Photo: Canvas Holidays

With a perfectly suited Instagram handle, Aspen the mountain pup is just that, a gorgeous golden retriever that loves nothing more than having adventures in the Colorado mountains with owners Hunter and Sarah Lawrence.

Willow (@vancatmeow)

Photo: Canvas Holidays

The second feline on our list, Willow is a rescue cat who is living the traveler dream. Back in 2015, owner Rich quit his job and sold his house and belongings. Since then, he and Willow have been traveling around Australia, living out of a van and having the time of their lives.

Chapati (@travelingchapati)

Photo: Canvas Holidays

Chapati is quite a special pup. Found on the streets of Kochi, India, her life turned around after Ukrainian couple Eugene and Kristina decided to adopt her. Since then, Chapati has never left their side, following her owners around the world and visiting a whopping 14 countries along the way, from India and Thailand to Italy and Austria.

Miami (@miami_traveller_dog)

Photo: Canvas Holidays

Last on our list, but by no means least, is Miami the Italian chihuahua. Over the years, Miami has accompanied owner Marianna Chiaraluce and her husband around the world as they worked tirelessly to launch their new hotel in Riccione, Italy.

If these adorable jet set pets have inspired you to take your four-legged friend on your next trip away, why not take a look at Canvas Holidays’ full range of dog-friendly holidays?

(*A 2017 study by Trainline found that the average Briton takes three trips every year in the UK and abroad, traveling an average of 15,474 miles per year.)

Please note, this information is purely for entertainment purposes and may not be 100% accurate or definitive. The average yearly mileage for each pet was based on the past two years of travel from each account, looking at photos where the account had tagged a specific location.

This article originally appeared on Canvas Holidays and is republished here with permission.


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The post These animals of Instagram travel way more than you do appeared first on Matador Network.

How planning escape rooms works

Escape rooms really are the new ropes course. For every team-building exercise, office outing, and birthday party full of people who don’t know each other too well, there’s a room to trap them in so that they can collectively figure a way out. The craze, which started in Europe, has spread throughout America over the past few years as the number of escape rooms in the country has gone from 22 in 2014 to over 2,000 today, with more coming.

But how, exactly, do these psychological masterminds figure out the puzzles, plots, and special effects that make escape rooms so massively popular? We chatted with Ilya Vrad, owner of 60Out escape rooms in Hollywood, and Akos Gabossy, whose PanIQ Room has locations in ten cities, including Miami; Dallas; and Washington, DC. They dished on how they come with these crazy ideas, how long it takes to build them, the testing process, and everything else that goes into making a first-rate escape room.

It starts just like a movie.

Much like writers get together and figure out the ridiculous plot twists for the latest season of Black Mirror, so do escape room engineers storyboard how their rooms will work.

“We start with ideas, building around a genre, whether it’s horror or mystery or a bad accident or something,” says 60Out’s Vrad. “Then once we narrow that down, we put down five or ten ideas, then our scriptwriter writes one paragraph on those ideas. Out of those paragraphs, we pick one we decide to further develop, the scriptwriter goes into writing a script with storyboards.”

Sometimes these are based on specific movies, like 60Out’s latest project Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, based on the hit book and movie Jumanji. Other times the ideas are simply inspired by broad film genres.

“When we see people like to watch zombies, pirates, or superheroes in the theaters, we know what directions we should follow,” says PanIQ’s Gabossy.

Putting together a script and storyboard typically takes four to six weeks. Once that’s done, and the general plot of the room figured out, it’s time to start making the puzzles — and, more importantly, how to get people to solve those puzzles the way designers intend. This way everyone gets through the room before all hell breaks loose.

“A lot of the room is designed to point you in the direction we want you to go in, so most people get the same solution the same way,” says Vrad. “For example, with Jumanji, we have one puzzle where people have to set up totems in a particular shape and a particular design. We make people see the correct way to set them up by placing very similar totems in the part of the room where we want them to set it up. They’re not just setting up in a random place.”

Photo: 60out

Installing the room.

After creating the script and the puzzles, designers collaborate with engineers and construction teams to build a room that brings their ideas to life. Engineers look at the puzzles to design a space that fits with what the scriptwriters want to do. Once that’s designed, engineers then determine what kind of electronics are needed, from sensors and switches to lighting and sound. Then they decide where to place those electronics so the room gets the feeling the scriptwriters intended. Again, it’s not unlike a movie set.

Sometimes they have no knowledge of where the escape room will ultimately be put, which creates a different kind of design challenge.

Photo: 60out

“We might know that we want to build a Western-theme room, we know the game elements, but we have no idea about the future interior height of the building,” says Gabossy. “This is where we have to improvise. When the general construction process is done, our artistic painters, carpenters, and theming experts appear on stage and create a regular building into an Asylum, Western Saloon, or Spaceship.”

Both companies design and build their rooms in Europe then ship the modular units, props, puzzles, and accessories to the United States. Once here, they go through the requisite permitting, inspections, and other real-estate logistics that Gabossy says is the biggest variable in how long it takes to complete an escape room. The length of the construction process also depends on the complexity of the room and can take anywhere from ten weeks in PanIQ’s case to five months in the case of Jumanji.

Photo: Maylat/Shutterstock

Testing to make sure escaping is still possible.

Once the room is constructed, engineers install control panels and monitoring equipment, so game masters can monitor people in the rooms and see if their puzzles are working the way they intended — and ensure nobody is hurting themselves, or the escape room. This is typically done during a testing phase, which 60Out does first in Ukraine and then again in America.

“We start testing… we usually do about 4-5 games per day,” says Vrad, who says they run 20 groups through the room over about three weeks. “If we see the same puzzle is constantly stumping people we try and add hints or write them little notes. If people still aren’t getting it or it’s an unnatural solution, we either take it out or switch the way it’s solved. We tinker with the room until the majority of the people are able to solve the whole room in under 60 minutes.”

This tinkering includes adding notes and pictures to make the solutions more obvious, or in some cases, scrapping entire puzzles that people just aren’t figuring out. In the case of Jumanji, 60Out had a puzzle where guests had to hit a karate training board to solve a puzzle. Nobody was hitting the board in the right place, so they replaced it with a different challenge.

By the time testing is done, six to ten months have passed from initial ideas to the first paying customers walking through the door, at which point the room is still constantly being modified to improve the experience. And so people will come back more than once.

“A facility is never really ‘ready,’” says Gabossy. “If you’re a responsible owner, only your wallet should put an end to your motivation.”


More like this: A Doctor Who escape room is coming to the UK

The post Inside the complex, Hollywood-like world of building escape rooms appeared first on Matador Network.

The best views of Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is one of Japan’s most famous sights, and everyone wants to catch a glimpse of it. It’s one of Japan’s Three Holy Mountains and, at 12,388 feet, the highest peak in the country. It’s designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty, one of Japan’s Historic Sites, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. And while this extraordinary mountain is an active stratovolcano, fortunately, the last eruption was in the 1700s.

Hiking the revered natural wonder is one way to see it, but the best way to get that iconic view is from afar — though it’s hard to know exactly where to get that perfect shot. On a recent trip to Japan, I visited Yamanakako Hanano Miyako Park hoping to get a view of Fuji behind a field of flowers. When we arrived, we could see only its snow-capped peak, and minutes later, clouds covered Fuji entirely. People put away their cameras only to see the mountain reappear 15 minutes later. We clamored for our devices, and the clouds returned. The exhausting cycle continued.

In the end, we took a bus to a different spot where we got a clear, wonderful view of the mountain. To avoid the same frustration we faced and cut straight to the good stuff, here are the best places to see the most epic views of Mount Fuji.

Lake Kawaguchiko

Photo: Aeypix/Shutterstock

Lake Kawaguchiko makes up part of the Fuji Five Lakes region; the others are Lake Yamanakako, Lake Saiko, Lake Shojiko, and Lake Motosuko. While Lake Yamanakako is the closest lake to the base of Mount Fuji, the view from there is more likely to be obscured by clouds. Kawaguchiko is the second largest of the five lakes and is also the most developed area. The lake’s eastern shore has a bustling onsen (hot spring) town. All the tourists that visit mean there are several bus and train routes that make it easily accessible.

It’s the northern shore, however, that provides the best views of Fuji. You can view it on foot, or you could hop on a cruise that takes you around the entire lake. A handful of companies, like the Lake Kawaguchiko Pleasure Boat, offer tours on the water. Once you arrive in the main part of town, several signs indicate where to book a boat tour — so you don’t need to reserve in advance. Visit during the cherry-blossom season, so you can get two beautiful sights for the price of one. The combination of Lake Kawaguchiko’s serene waters, Mount Fuji, and the cherry blossoms produce a perfectly idyllic scene.

Arakura Sengen Park

Photo: Shuttertong/Shutterstock

One of the most famous views of Fuji has a red pagoda in the foreground. You’ll see it on advertisements to visit Japan, magnets, postcards, and the like. The view is actually of the Chureito Pagoda, part of the Arakura Sengen Shrine in Arakura Sengen Park. The entire shrine is built on and around a mountain, and the pagoda, built in 1963 as a peace memorial, is almost 400 steps up that mountain.

Hiking your way to the top may prove challenging if you’re not used to the incline, but it’s commonplace to stop for a breath along the way — so no one will judge if you need a moment. Visit during the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom or in autumn when the leaves take on a bright crimson hue. If you’re willing to put in the effort, you’ll be rewarded with amazing vistas.

Hakone

Photo: San Hoyano/Shutterstock

Hakone is one of Japan’s many mountain towns, located in the Kanagawa Prefecture and part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. It’s a hiker’s paradise, with an abundance of trails through the forested wilderness. Its proximity to Tokyo makes it an easy day or overnight trip for people seeking a bit of nature.

Mount Kintoki is one of the more popular hiking spots in Hakone, and part of the reason is the stunning panoramic views of Mount Fuji visible from its summit. Several trails with varying difficulty reach the top, but an easier route would be starting from the Kintoki Shrine and climbing up Otome Pass. In addition to Fuji, you can gaze at the Hakone Valley, Lake Ashi, Yadori-ishi Rock, and the Owakudani area from Kintoki.

Kamakura

Photo: yougoigo/Shutterstock

Kamakura, a town right between the waters of Sagami and Tokyo Bay, is a favorite spot for those looking for a good place to surf. It’s well known for its bronze Great Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple; at 40 feet, it’s the second tallest bronze Buddha in Japan.

Of Kamakura’s many beaches, Inamuragasaki is a black-sand beach with towering cliffs. It’s not the largest beach in the area that you can visit, but it’s relatively unspoiled. More importantly, the sunset and Fuji views make for an incredible moment.

Fuji-Q Highland

Photo: ICQ34791919/Shutterstock

Fuji-Q is an amusement park located in the city of Fujiyoshida in the Yamanshi Prefecture, right at the base of Mount Fuji. Opened in 1968, it’s now one of the best places to catch sight of Fuji without much interruption from clouds. For those less inclined toward hiking or extensive physical activity who still want to see the awe-inspiring mountain, visiting Fuji-Q is the next best bet. It’s open daily from 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM with extended hours until 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM on some days. Admission to the park itself is free, so you only pay for the rides, which cost 400 to 1800 yen ($3.50-$16) each, or you can get an unlimited day pass for 5700 yen (about $50).

Sure, you could visit Fuji-Q and see Fuji without paying a single cent, but the theme park is home to some of the world’s top roller coasters that have broken Guinness World Records. The “Takabisha” is the steepest roller coaster in the world with a 121-degree angled drop. It’d be a waste not to spend the day screaming your lungs out and seeing the highest mountain in Japan.

Hot Springs

Photo: SAHACHATZ/Shutterstock

Onsens are a big part of Japanese culture. Because the country has so much volcanic activity, you can find an onsen in just about every corner of the Japanese archipelago. Hot springs have healing qualities, such as soothing aches and pains, relieving skin problems, and boosting circulation. The perfect way to end a day spent out and about is by visiting an onsen — to let your body heal itself after hours of exertion.

But why not enhance that experience by having Mount Fuji as your backdrop while you soak? Many onsens in the area offer clear, majestic views of Fuji, like the popular Fujiyama Onsen, Hotel Mifujien, and Benifuji No Yu. At some places, admission prices vary by time of day and range from 600 to 1700 yen ($5.40 to $15). But you can’t really put a price on your health or that magical Mount Fuji view.


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The post Where to find the most epic views of Mount Fuji appeared first on Matador Network.

Hiking in the fall in California

California has some of the country’s most dramatic vistas — but between high inland temperatures, coastal fog, and crowds of tourists, it can be difficult to enjoy them in the summer. Fall brings cooler temperatures in the mountains, so you can hike comfortably, even in the middle of the day. Along the coast, fall also means the end of the fog that can make summer days gray and gloomy. And everywhere you go, from beaches to state parks to national parks, there are fewer crowds. Fall is simply the best time to explore California — here are six spectacular hiking spots to check out.

1. Coastal Trail to Flint Ridge Camp, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Photo: Radoslaw Lecyk/Shutterstock

If you want to experience California’s beautiful redwood trees in solitude, this hike offers some untouched old-growth stands without the crowds that spoil some of the most popular hikes. The trailhead is near Marshall Pond by the mouth of the Klamath River — about three and a half miles from the town of Klamath. The trail starts in alder and spruce before reaching the magnificent old-growth redwoods.

After two miles of uphill, you’ll reach the ridge and then descend to Flint Ridge Campground, where you can hear the Pacific Ocean surf. There’s an unofficial trail that leads to the water, but it’s steep and overgrown and not recommended. Bonus for fall: Blackberries grow in abundance near the pond.

Details: 9.2 miles; 1,520-foot elevation gain

2. Wright’s Beach to Goat Rock Beach, Kortum Trail, Sonoma Coast

Photo: Mariusz S. Jurgielewicz/Shutterstock

This hike along the Sonoma Coast is high in drama but low in elevation gain. Start at Wright’s Beach, just over six miles north of Bodega Bay, and walk north across the top of the bluff over a double plank-wood walkway. You’ll see the ocean the entire time, as well as many stunning rock formations, including a giant offshore arch at Blind Beach.

The plank trail ends at Goat Rock Beach, and you’ll need to walk along the sand to continue north. There’s no swimming due to heavy surf and rip currents; however, you’ll see lots of seals, birds, and possibly even otters — but, despite the name, no goats. Just a short distance past Goat Rock you can see where the Russian River meets the Pacific Ocean in Jenner, California.

Details: Nine miles round trip; 900-foot elevation gain

3. Rubicon Trail, D.L. Bliss State Park

Photo: Erika Kirkpatrick/Shutterstock

The Rubicon Trail offers sweeping views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding area without a big elevation gain. The trailhead starts from the parking lot at Calawee Cove at D.L. Bliss State Park. The first half-mile runs along the top of steep cliffs that drop into some of the deepest water in the lake. In the early fall, watch for courageous locals who arrive by boat to use a precariously placed rope swing.

As you continue south, you’ll see osprey nests, rock formations, and turquoise coves. At almost four miles, you’ll reach Emerald Bay and the much-photographed Fannette Island — the only island in Lake Tahoe. Note that if the park road is closed, you can still access the trail. It’s two miles downhill from the D.L. Bliss Visitor Center or one mile downhill from the Emerald Bay parking lot.

Details: Nine miles round trip; 400-foot elevation gain

4. Alamere Falls, Pt. Reyes National Seashore

Photo: Radoslaw Lecyk/Shutterstock

This popular Bay Area hike starts from the Palomarin Trailhead at the end of Mesa Road just outside the town of Bolinas, and it ends with one of the state’s few coastal waterfalls. Water cascades over a 30-foot cliff onto the south end of Wildcat Beach. The trail offers expansive ocean views and passes by two lakes; the lake even comes complete with a rope swing.

On a clear day, you can even see the Farallon Islands. Be careful not to miss the rock arrow on the ground that marks the trail to the falls about four miles in. There’s a little climbing required at the end, so be careful if the rocks are wet.

Details: 8.8. miles round trip; 1,300-foot elevation gain

5. Four Mile Trail, Yosemite National Park

Photo: Sasha Buzko/Shutterstock

This hike literally climbs up the wall from the Yosemite Valley floor to Glacier Point, with a continuous and very steep grade. For the first mile you walk through trees, but after that you’ll experience open vistas, so you can see all of Yosemite’s famous sights.

Yosemite Falls is directly across the valley; it won’t be at its peak strength in the fall, but it’s still beautiful. You can also see Half Dome and El Capitan; bring binoculars if you want to try to spot the rock climbers. The hike finishes at a visitor’s center at Glacier Point where you can get snacks and ice cream, which you’ll definitely be hungry for. You could take a shuttle down, but you’ve earned the downhill, so you might as well enjoy it.

Details: 9.6 miles round trip; 3,200-foot elevation gain

6. Soldier’s Loop Trail and Moro Rock, Sequoia National Park

Photo: FiledIMAGE/Shutterstock

This hike offers unforgettable vistas without a huge elevation gain, but don’t be fooled by the pavement at the beginning. It isn’t appropriate for children or anyone with mobility issues. Start from the Giant Forest Museum and go clockwise to get the uphill out of the way early. After a 300-foot elevation gain within the first half mile, the path will be relatively flat until you reach the turnout for Moro Rock.

You’ll see many sequoias and dogwoods, which will be crimson in the fall. Near the end of the loop, take the short side trail and climb up 350 steps to the top of Moro Rock. With the narrow trail — at times only wide enough for one person — and metal railings at the top, this trail is particularly challenging for anyone who’s afraid of heights. At an elevation of 6,700 feet, the top offers panoramic views of the Great Western Divide.

Details: 4.5 mile loop; 700-foot elevation gain


More like this: The most beautiful hikes in the Rocky Mountains you need to do this fall

The post The 6 most stunning places to hike in California this fall appeared first on Matador Network.

Tour the Colosseum after dark

The Colosseum is spectacular at any hour, but this new tour lets you experience it as few have done before: after dark. Launched by Italian tour company Roma Experience, the new Under the Moon tour not only allows visitors to experience the Colosseum at night, but also to access restricted areas of the iconic structure. These include the arena stage and underground dungeons, which are off-limits during the day. And this VIP tour is limited to 25 participants, meaning a far more personal, crowd-free tour.

Photo: Roma Experience

You’ll start at the Piazza Venezia, where you’ll receive a thorough education in Ancient Rome’s imperial history, and tour through the Roman Forum, Capitoline Hill, and Via dei Fori Imperiali. Once you arrive at the Colosseum, you’ll be given a rare gladiator’s view of the arena from the main wooden stage.

The more unique element of the tour, however, is probably the underground dungeons. Essentially, they were locker rooms where animals and gladiators waited their turn to fight in the arena — but instead of lockers, they were locked in cages themselves. You’ll also be able to see the wooden elevator and trap door, whereby they were raised from the dungeon up to the main arena.

Photo: Roma Experience

The Under the Moon tour starts at $86. For more information about tickets and details on the tour itself, visit the official website.

H/T: Lonely Planet

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Best archaeological sites in Egypt

No one travels to Egypt for the beaches or the wildlife — everybody comes for the ancient sites. From the Pyramids at Giza to the Valley of the Kings and the Luxor Temple, the country is filled with immense, millennia-old structures often shrouded in mystery. But, despite being the objects of myths and legends, these beautiful, ancient monuments are far from being kept secret. In fact, they’re so well-known that they’re almost constantly swarmed with visitors and vendors. These crowds often take away from the amazement one should feel when looking at these structures. Thankfully, there are still a few sites that aren’t covered in tour buses and camel ride offers.

To get the under-the-radar tour, we spoke with Christina Chavez, an archaeologist in the Greater Southwest Region of the US. Her knowledge of working in the desert and overall archaeological experience took her to Egypt five times to work on a large archaeological project project run by the NYU Institute of Fine Arts archaeological research program in Abydos. During her multiple visits, she was trained by egyptologists and became fascinated with the country’s history. She also had the chance to travel around Egypt several times and visit many lesser-known sites with immense historical and cultural value. These are a few of her favorites that you shouldn’t miss.

1. The Temple of Horus in Edfu

The Temple of Horus is located in the town of Edfu on the West Bank of the Nile. Although it’s only 68 miles south of the famous city of Luxor, this site is often missed by tourists who travel directly by bus or train from Luxor to the very popular Abu Simbel temples.

Photo: Anton_Ivanov/Shutterstock

Built out of sandstone between 237 and 57 BC, it’s one of the best-preserved monuments in all of Egypt. The temple was dedicated to Horus, an ancient god in the form of a falcon, whom you can see depicted in the reliefs on the temple’s pylon and as large granite statues at the entrance to the monument. Past the gateway is a large courtyard surrounded by carved columns and decorated with reliefs. At the end of the courtyard, the doorway to the temple’s library, halls, and tenebrous chambers, is guarded by a statue of Horus.

Photo: Victor Iniesta/Shutterstock

Inside, visitors can admire incredibly ornate rooms where altars and shrines that were used to worship Horus still stand. From inside one of the halls, go up the steps to get to the rooftop to take in the view of the Nile. Chavez recommends the Temple of Horus because it’s not as busy as other ancient sites, but also because it’s a great place to see 2,000-year-old carving, reliefs, and hieroglyphs in beautiful conditions and learn about Egyptian mythology.

2. The Temple of Hathor at Dendera

Photo: Dmitry Pleshakov/Shutterstock

Only 52 miles north of Luxor on the West Bank of the Nile, the temple of the goddess Hathor is incredibly well-preserved and free of crazy crowds. Hathor was said to be the spouse of Horus and is represented as a cow or as a woman wearing cow horns and a sun disk. Hathor is a significant figure in Egyptian mythology, hence the large temple dedicated to her.

Photo: Oksana Galiulina/Shutterstock

The walls around the temple complex are covered in reliefs and hieroglyphs, including a scene depicting Hathor breastfeeding her son. Through the gate, visitors can access the several buildings that make up the temple complex, as well as the temple itself. The facade of temple is covered in reliefs and decorated with six columns into which the head of Hathor is carved. Note that those six carvings were defaced later on by Christians. As you step in, the first hall, containing 24 columns, is ornate with hieroglyphs and carvings of Hathor that still bear the original paintwork, and is an impressive sight. You can access the rooftop of the temple via a staircase located in the next room. From there, you can see the entire complex.

3. The Red Monastery in Sohag

Photo: Cortyn/Shutterstock

Although vestiges of pharaonic times is what most visitors to Egypt seek, it’s only one part of the country’s rich history. Christianity and monasticism spread through the country as early as 45 AD and Christian communities flourished, rejecting the old pagan traditions.

Photo: Cortyn/Shutterstock

The Red Monastery, located in Sohag, is a town on the West Bank of the Nile and 150 miles north of Luxor, and is a remnant of the start of monastic life in the world. It’s dedicated to Saint Pishay, its founder. The fourth-century monastery may look austere from the outside, but the inside is spectacularly lavish with paintings and sculptures. According to the American Research Center in Egypt, “In this church, late antique paintings cover about 80 percent of the walls, niches, columns, pilasters, pediments, and apses.” After being restored from 2002 to 2014, the Red Monastery is now open to visitors and used by the Coptic community.

4. Petroglyphs from Kharga Oasis

Photo: Christina Chavez

In the same way that the story of Egypt didn’t stop with the pharaohs, it didn’t start with them either. The petroglyphs from Kharga Oasis in the Western Desert are sandstone rock carvings dating back from prehistoric times onward. There are several rock art sites in the area between Al-Kharga and Dakhla Oasis, and getting there isn’t easy, so you’ll need to ask around Al-Kharga for a guide in a 4×4 to drive you to the appropriate spots. One thing’s for sure: there won’t be crowds getting in your way to check out the animals, boats, humans, geometric designs, and inscriptions found on the rocks. Chavez highly recommends that travelers to Egypt check out this area to get a larger picture of the country’s history — if you thought the pyramids were old, you’ll be amazed by the carvings of giraffes, elephants, donkeys, fish, and even hippos from hundreds of thousands of years ago.

5. Siwa Oasis

Siwa Oasis is the perfect spot for those who really want to get away from it all. It’s in the Western Desert, a good eight-hour drive from Cairo, and very close to the border with Libya, so, despite hosting amazing historical sites, it’s not driving the crowds. Chavez suggests that you check out the following two sites in Siwa:

The Fortress of Shali

Photo: Sun_Shine/Shutterstock

The shell that remains of the 13th-century fortress is an impressive structure built out of a unique material: karshif, a mud produced naturally through the calcification of earth mixed with salt from the lake outside of town. The fortress was inhabited by the people of Siwa until a storm destroyed most of it and forced the locals to move to more modern accommodations in the early 20th century. The site looks like a ghost town maze and is well worth checking out. For a great view of the fortress from above, climb up to the Old Mosque.

The Temple of the Oracle

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The temple of the Oracle, built in the sixth century BC, was dedicated to Amon, a god in the shape of a curly-horned ram. The prophecies of Amon were taken very seriously and brought fame to the small town of Aghurmi. Even Alexander the Great, upon invading Egypt, visited the Temple of the Oracle to hear what life had in store for him. The views of the oasis from the temple are also spectacular.

6. The Temple of Seti I in Abydos

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Abydos is a city located about 100 miles north of Luxor on the West Bank of the Nile. Because most historical sites are located along the river, a stop in Abydos can easily be added to an itinerary. And, really, you shouldn’t skip Abydos because the city used to be the center of worship for Osiris, the god of the dead and the afterlife, and one of the most important gods in Egyptian mythology. Abydos was used as a necropolis for thousands of years — this is where the tombs of the first pharaohs of Egypt were found and a place most Egyptians strived to be buried. Also, Abydos is so underrated that Chavez explains that she found herself almost completely alone on her visit to the Temple of Seti.

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The Temple of Seti I is an incredibly well-preserved mortuary that used to be considered one of the most sacred places in all of Egypt. It was built under King Seti I in 1300 BC and was dedicated to the veneration of the king himself and six significant Egyptian gods: Osiris, Isis (Osiris’ sister and wife), Horus (Osiris and Isis’ son), Amon-Ra, Ra-Horakhty, and Ptah. Parts of the L-shaped temple complex have been destroyed (courtyards and pylons), but the portico with a pillared facade still stands, decorated with reliefs where Ramses II (son of Seti I) is shown with the gods. Inside there are columns, gloomy halls, chambers, and seven sanctuaries for each of the divinities reverated here. The walls of the temple are intricately decorated with colored reliefs and hieroglyphs depicting scenes of religious significance. At the back of the temple is the Osireion, a cenotaph to Osiris that is completely flooded and therefore impossible for egyptologists to study in detail.

7. The Shunet El-Zebib in Abydos

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Shunet El-Zebib is the site where Chavez has worked during every one of her trips to Egypt. The Shunet El-Zebib is a funerary cult enclosure for King Khasekhemwy of the Second Dynasty dating back to 2650 BC, located in the sacred city of Abydos. The site covers several square miles and is the only standing funerary enclosure in the necropolis of Abydos. According to the World Monuments Fund, “The structure is one of Egypt’s oldest standing royal monuments and one of the oldest preserved mud brick buildings in the world” and it’s “the only example of this earliest tradition of royal monumental funerary construction that still exists.”

The Shunet El-Zebib was built before the pyramids and served as an example for their construction. It also influenced the design of the Step Pyramid complex of Khasekhemwy’s successor King Djoser, the first royal pyramid built in Egypt. Now that the structure has been stabilized by 150,000 mud bricks made exactly like the original ones, visitors have only just recently been allowed to visit this amazing, but widely underrated site and, if not, capture the view of the grand enclosure towering over the sand dunes.


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