Matador Network's Blog, page 1296

Ancient Roman artifacts uncovered

All roads might lead to Rome, but what about what’s underneath those roads? Improvements on Rome’s Line C, the newest metro route, has allowed the city’s residents and tourists to travel easily from the city center to neighborhoods east of Rome. The travel benefits, however, have proven secondary to the true value of the project. During the course of construction, the digging has unearthed historical artifacts, from mosaics and pottery to the remains of 2,000-year-old barracks used by Emperor Hadrian’s army.

Photo: Metro C S.c.p.A.

Photo: Metro C S.c.p.A.

Photo: Metro C S.c.p.A.

Photo: Metro C S.c.p.A.

The San Giovanni stop, the latest addition to the line in the Appio Latino neighborhood, offers passengers a particularly enriching journey through the city’s past. The subway stop’s display cases feature over 40,000 artifacts unearthed during the construction, from the Pleistocene Age to the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476. When the Roman Empire was at its peak, the station was home to a rich agricultural area, producing fruit, vegetables, and flowers — a history which is now on display, in the form of 2,000-year-old peach stones.

Photo: Metro C S.c.p.A.

Photo:

Cool river-rafting trips in Colorado

Colorado’s mountains are diverse, and while many choose to traverse them with a backpack and trekking pole in hand, we’d much rather take in the sights from below — in the belly of a raft. But don’t think that just because you get to sit this is the easy way out; a trip down Colorado’s many rivers will have you winding through dramatic canyons, open valleys, and challenging whitewater rapids that will test your arm strength, not to mention your group’s ability to work as a team.

Many river outfitters are available throughout the state to get you on the water and keep you safe throughout the process, which is absolutely essential unless you’re a pro rafter. (These rapids are no joke.) Finding an outfitter is the easy part, though; the real challenge is deciding which river expedition you want to go on. To help you decide, here is the definitive list of all the rafting trips in Colorado worth embarking on.

Photo: IrinaK/Shutterstock

Arkansas River

The Arkansas River is the gem of Colorado whitewater, a rafting destination that brings in river enthusiasts from around the world. Canyons are the highlight, led by the steep cliffs of the Royal Gorge. Day trips range from half days to full days at most outfitters, meaning you’ll spend between three and six hours on the water. Multi-day excursions with camping and meals provided are available, as well, for those wishing to see larger stretches of the river. Stay in Salida where the river drives the town’s economy as well as its culture — you’re bound to pick up a few tidbits of rafting know-how just by conversing with locals over a brew at one of the numerous downtown pubs.

The Royal Gorge, Canon City

Class IV-V

A post shared by Javier Medrano (@javierjmedrano) on Jul 22, 2018 at 11:16am PDT

Rating through the Royal Gorge is a must-do for anyone coming to Colorado in the summer. It features steep drops and many technical rafting challenges, complemented by the 955-foot-high walls of the Royal Gorge Canyon and the Royal Gorge Bridge, which is suspended 1,053 feet above and connects the two sides of the canyon. This marvel of engineering looks very different when viewed from underneath — but you’ll be a bit too busy to Instagram it.

Browns Canyon, Buena Vista

Class III-IV

A post shared by MarkAbarca (@markabarca) on Jul 21, 2018 at 8:43pm PDT

Another popular Arkansas River route takes rafters through Browns Canyon between the towns of Buena Vista and Salida. The canyon is lush with life, and the rapids are passable throughout the summer months. They are also spread throughout the trip in a way that allows for ample time for both relaxation and high-intensity paddling, ideal for families and first-timers.

Bighorn Sheep Canyon, Colorado Springs

Class III-IV

A post shared by Echo Canyon River Expeditions (@raft_echo) on Jul 14, 2018 at 5:26pm PDT

Bighorn Sheep Canyon is the perfect introduction to whitewater rafting. The trip contains up to Class IV rapids during peak season, but in general, it’s a more relaxed trip, allowing for smooth sailing, conversation, and plenty of time to hone your paddling skills. For those looking to pry knowledge about local wildlife, plant life, and mountain lore out of their guides without their stories being constantly interrupted by incoming blasts of cold river water, a half-day trip through Bighorn Sheep Canyon is a great opportunity to do so.

Photo: Kyootaek Choi/Shutterstock

Gunnison River

The Gunnison River is ideal for intermediate and high-level rafters as it snakes its way through central Colorado. High-rising canyons and open valleys create a rugged landscape that can be difficult to paddle but never hard on the eye; it’s one of the most picturesque parts of a state. Removed from the tourist trap that is I-70, the town of Gunnison makes for a relaxing hub for your pre- and post-river activities, with plenty of lodging available in nearby Crested Butte and Montrose, as well.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Gunnison

Class V+

A post shared by Antonia (@alezanth) on Jul 24, 2018 at 12:15pm PDT

Floating through Black Canyon is an experience even seasoned rafters and daredevils need to adequately prepare for. The rapids are technical and consistent, though not impassable, and you’ll certainly want an experienced guide who has floated this stretch of the river before. The Canyon walls are so tight that parts of the area receive as little as 30 minutes of sunlight each day. The trip, which can be done as a half-day or full-day excursion, is challenging and a great workout, and it provides breathtaking views of a highly underappreciated part of the state.

Gunnison Gorge, Gunnison

Class III-IV

A post shared by Peter Jaacks (@peterjaacks) on Jun 13, 2018 at 4:30pm PDT

A slightly more mellow option that’s still dramatically beautiful is a float through the Gunnison Gorge. You’ll pass by towering black granite walls and through some of the most celebrated trout water in Colorado with a protected National Conservation Area as the backdrop. This is a solid trip to stretch your ability and get comfortable working through technical rapids and quick water in a setting that is more forgiving than Black Canyon. Still, a solid guide is a must, particularly because the views are likely to pull your attention off the water quite frequently.

Photo: B Norris/Shutterstock

Clear Creek

Popular for its proximity to Denver and the ease of use for families and rafters of all abilities, Clear Creek is among the most heavily trafficked waterways in Colorado. You can call Denver or Idaho Springs your base, but access is easy from anywhere in Summit County. There are a number of non-water activities like via ferrata, zip lining, and a ropes course in the area, as well.

Lower Canyon of Clear Creek, Idaho Springs

Class V

A post shared by Lisa Wilder (@wilder_lisa) on Jun 29, 2018 at 4:21pm PDT

Lower Canyon of Clear Creek is a physically demanding ride through the river’s best rapids, one after the other, challenging river rats with the technical maneuvers necessary to stay afloat through long stretches of whitewater and turns. But the half-day trip is gorgeous and a great confidence builder for those who feel their skills have developed past what is necessary to raft down the more mellow stretches of the river. Being an expert rafter is not necessary, but being in decent shape is.

Upper Clear Creek, Idaho Springs

Class IV

A post shared by Noah (@noaboah) on Jul 22, 2016 at 11:28pm PDT

Upper Clear Creek is a challenging half-day trip that also allows for some excellent sightseeing. If you’re in decent shape and have a professional guide, this trip is doable even if you haven’t spent much time on the river. That said, you’ll want to make sure you practice proper oar work before pushing off. The water moves fast on this section of the river, driven by steep slopes and, at least early in the season, rapid snowmelt. Among the most notorious rapids along this eight-mile stretch is Outer Limits, a portion sure to test your ability, so come prepared to paddle hard.

Photo: YingHui Liu/Shutterstock

Colorado River

The Colorado River offers a great chance to see a part of the Centennial State that many never take the time to see — west of the Continental Divide, through the vast Western Slope and eventually into the Grand Valley. Base yourself in Glenwood Springs or Grand Junction.

Upper Colorado, State Bridge

Class II-IV

A post shared by Sarah (@sarahdsayles) on Jun 2, 2018 at 1:17pm PDT

If spotting wild animals is your thing, Upper Colorado is where you want to be. You’re likely to spot bighorn sheep, deer, elk, and maybe even a bald eagle or two as you make your way down the Shoshone stretch of the river. It’s a half-day excursion from State Bridge, about 20 minutes north of Wolcott and I-70, if you’re not rushing it.

Lower Colorado, Palisade

Class II-IV

A post shared by Pasadena Outdoor Education (@pasadenaoutdoored) on May 31, 2018 at 5:27pm PDT

The Lower Colorado stretch heading into the Grand Junction area is wide and mellow, more of a beer cruise than a technical challenge. This stretch sees a lot of locals and fewer river operators, but the passing through the orchards and vineyards outside of Palisade is among the most beautiful and relaxing ways to spend an afternoon.

Photo: Luke Marlow/Shutterstock

Lodore Canyon on the Green River, Dinosaur National Monument

Class II-III

Lodore Canyon is essential for adventurers seeking to take in Dinosaur National Monument from a different angle than most will ever see. The multi-day trip (two to three days with overnight camping) leads you through three separate canyons filled with petroglyphs, wildlife, and some of the most beautiful rock formations this side of the Grand Canyon. Rafting the Green River is as much about taking in the sights as it is challenging yourself on hearty whitewater, so you’re unlikely to ever have a dull moment.

Photo: welcomia/Shutterstock

Roaring Fork River, Aspen

Class II-IV

A post shared by Tracy Everett Sumner (@tracyeverettsumner) on Jun 30, 2018 at 2:59pm PDT

Famed for the glitzy, Hollywood-star-laden town of Aspen, this valley is also a hub for diehard outdoorsmen, and the Roaring Fork River is the rafting run of choice for many of them. The intensely challenging rapid known as Slaughterhouse put the Roaring Fork River on the map as a prime paddling destination, a stretch that takes smooth navigating and a keen sense of timing to get through — something you’ll be thankful your guide has as you make your way down. Besides the challenge, the soaring peaks provide an immaculate backdrop to the open green expanses of the valley as you make your way toward Glenwood Springs. Parts of the river are very lazy, giving you a chance to actually take it all in.

More like this: The best National Parks for rafting

The post 11 insanely cool river-rafting trips in Colorado you need to take appeared first on Matador Network.

Northern California road-trip photos

Northern California is really something else. I grew up hiking in Marin County and roasting marshmallows at Lake Tahoe. As a photographer, I am naturally drawn to the area again and again to find new images to capture as the area seems to have an endless well of beauty to draw from. The best part about the area, though, is that you don’t have to make many arrangements in advance to soak up the scenery — all you need to do is get in the car and drive, making Northern California the perfect road trip for last minute travelers before the end of summer. Now that Highway 1 has finally reopened, it’s time to hit the road. From Mount Tamalpais and the Point Reyes Seashore in Marin County all the way to Emerald Bay in Lake Tahoe, here are the most spectacular sights I’ve seen along this route, which are sure to inspire a spontaneous adventure.




1

Just above the Golden Gate Bridge, sitting as a symbol of Marin County, Mount Tamalpais has spectacular views of the surrounding bay, the occasional visit from local wildlife, and a whole lot of mountain biking. (The sport was technically invented here.) It’s a classic starting point for this trip; come here at sunrise and watch the sun come up over San Francisco. Then get going because there’s a lot to see.

2

Highway 1 is famous for its windy cliffside drive, which alone makes it worth visiting. But as a photographer, the scenery also gives you rocky ocean views and swaths of beaches spread over 600 miles. It was closed for a while for restoration but reopened this July. So, open the windows, turn up your music, and just drive from one stunning vista to the next.

3

At the Point Reyes National Seashore, you’ll find the iconic Point Reyes Lighthouse, tule elk roaming the hillsides (they have their own reserve, so spotting them is easy), and several tiny beach towns in between long stretches of nature, many of which serve up delicious ice cream from the nearby Straus Family Creamery. If you’re up for a hike, a 13-mile round-trip trek to Alamere Falls never disappoints.

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4

The long, sandy beaches at Point Reyes are a sanctuary for birdlife - from hovering birds of prey to endangered brown pelicans and western snowy plovers - so if you’re a photographer, bring your telephoto lens. The mist from the ocean waves is cool and fresh with every breath while you hike around the seashore. Beaches like Limantour and Drake’s may be a bit crowded, but more remote beaches that require a little walking to reach - like McClure’s and Abbotts Lagoon - will feel like secret coves. This is a place to embrace the solitude and be alone with your camera.

5

From Point Reyes, head across the central valley towards the Sierra Nevada mountain range and camp or find a hotel in the hills. I like the Hideout, a remote, family-owned (and -built) getaway at 7,100 feet that only has seven suites. You can camp on site, as well. It’s surrounded by thousands of acres of national forest, along with meadows, rivers, and a private lake.

6

This wilderness lodge also has an old-style saloon for entertainment that begs you to kick back under the stars and swap stories late into the night by campfire.

7

Whether you slept in the cozy lodge or roughed it outdoors, get up early and do a morning hike while the sun rises. It will give you a quality of light you can only find up in the Sierras. I headed to some granite boulders sparsely covered with trees and other greenery.

8

The Sierras are known for their small mountain lakes, so stand-up paddleboarding is a must. Rucker Lake, seen here, is tucked away above Soda Springs and rarely has any wind, so the water is almost always smooth, which is ideal for photos even in the harsh sun. If you’ve never SUP’d before, don’t worry; it’s one of the most accessible outdoor sports for beginners, and it’s equally fun to do with friends or on your own.

9

Famous for its views of Lake Tahoe, the Flume Trail is great for both hiking and mountain biking for experienced riders. (It’s a fairly challenging one-way, 14-mile ride at an elevation of 8000 feet with over a 1000 feet of climbing in the first four miles). Photographers should leave their whole gear bag back at camp; pack light with a single wide-angle lens, and stuff the backpack with lots of water instead.

10

Just below the Flume Trail is Hidden Beach. Parking is tricky depending on the time of year, but the rocks give you a great place to cool off with a swim before the sun starts going down and you start furiously trying to capture the perfect sunset photo.

11

Emerald Bay is probably the most famous place in all of Lake Tahoe. To avoid running into other people, go at sunrise, not sunset. Get up early (like, really early), bundle up, bring a headlamp, and arrive just in time for the sun to rise over the bay, hopefully against some clouds to catch the light. Take a meditative moment to appreciate the quiet, beautiful scenery and reflect on the journey you’ve had that brought you to this moment. No doubt you’ll already be making plans for a return.

More like this: California’s iconic Highway 1 has officially reopened

The post The ultimate end-of-summer road trip through Northern California appeared first on Matador Network.

New glass-floored luxury airline

This new airplane design is about to take your fear of heights to a whole new elevation. The Airlander 10 resembles a luxury superyacht, with glass floors that allow you to gain a new — potentially frightening — perspective on your journey. The airbus was initially designed for commercial and military use, but Hybrid Air Vehicles, the UK aerospace company that developed the airship, announced that it is now planning to take on passengers. These passengers will board the Airlander for a luxurious three-day journey to some of the world’s most exciting destinations.

Photo: DesignQ/Airlander

The passenger cabin will be able to accommodate 19 passengers plus crew members. The reason journeys will take up to three days is because the aircraft isn’t built for speed. It only reaches max speeds of 91 mph, but that shouldn’t be an issue considering those three days will be spent in supreme comfort. Passengers will be able to enjoy private en-suite bedrooms with a communal lounge and floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the horizon. There will also be fine dining options, along with a chic bar.

Photo: DesignQ/Airlander

The Airlander 10 is also incredibly fuel-efficient. It can stay airborne for three days because of its low-cost fuel, and it has the ability to land and take off from any flat surface, including sand, water, and ice. This means it can reach destinations normally inaccessible to ordinary aircraft.

Photo: DesignQ/Airlander

The Airlander has already logged six successful test flights but must complete 200 incident-free hours in the sky before it will be allowed to welcome passengers aboard.

H/T: Lonely Planet

More like this: The definitive ranking of the world’s best airlines of 2018 was just announced

The post This luxury airline with glass floors looks more like a superyacht appeared first on Matador Network.

European canal cities outside Venice

When we think of canals, our first thought it usually Venice. On second thought, however, we may consider the packs of tourists that descend on that stunning city and the increasingly frustrated locals who want these tourists to just go away. Fortunately, there are several cities throughout Europe that are less-visited than Venice and also crisscrossed with lovely waterways.

Quite a few European towns — that are not Venice or even Amsterdam — have historic architecture overlooking picturesque canals. So, hop on a boat or a bike and wind your way along the water in these seven canal cities.

1. Bruges, Belgium

Photo: Yasonya/Shutterstock

Bruges is one of the most colorfully distinctive cities in Europe. Thanks to its network of winding canals, 15th-century buildings, and ornate church steeples, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2000. Once a mandatory stop for merchant ships selling first fabric, and later Castilian and Basque wool, Bruges was the heart of a thriving medieval European economy. It’s still a hub for trade; since the 1980s, its neighboring Zeebrugge port has become the largest in the world for import and export of new vehicles.

City tours offer boat expeditions, which are an excellent way to see otherwise inaccessible parts of the city, but if the idea makes you seasick, you can take a horse-drawn carriage tour. While you’re there, enjoy the hundreds of museums, Beguinage (once a place for devout laywomen to live independently without husbands), and numerous bars and restaurants. You’ll find everything from places with simpler fare of beer and carbonade flamande (Belgian beef stew) to the only restaurant in Bruges to hold 3 Michelin stars, Hertog Jan.

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

Photo: S-F/Shutterstock

Copenhagen’s charming old port area, Nyhavn, which translates to “new port,” connects the oldest part of Copenhagen to the sea and was once a bustling hive of activity — all of it legal. Since it was many sailors’ first port of call into town, the area was a bit of a red-light district with many taverns and brothels available for men who had been at sea too long. Author Hans Christian Andersen, whose famed fairy tales include The Little Mermaid, lived along the canal for more than two decades and wrote The Princess and the Pea in his apartment at number 20 — which you will see on a boat tour leaving from the Nyhavn launch area.

The tour also passes by Freetown Christiania, a progressive intentional community and independent state within the city of Copenhagen. If you wish to visit Christiania, you must go by land, though, since the dock is closed to non-residents. Nyhavn is also known for the bright colors of the rowhouses lining the canal edges, as well as the historic wooden boats docked along the sidewalks.

3. Empuriabrava, Spain

Photo: Valery Bareta/Shutterstock

Originally located on a swamp, Empuriabrava was transformed into an inviting tourist destination with over 15 miles of canals thanks to a concerted effort by the town’s community leaders in 1964. Several large marinas accommodate pleasure yachts and small boats alike, and water activities are the huge draw in this tiny town.

You can visit several medieval castles and museums in town, or you can ignore culture in favor of the white-sand beaches with gentle waves. The nearby Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park features over 330 species of migratory birds and offers a variety of curated tours through the park, all which are designed to minimize human impact on the environment. There is an overabundance of seafood restaurants, but many are open seasonally. If you plan your trip outside of the summer months, phone ahead to make sure the restaurants and other services are still open.

4. Annecy, France

Photo: Mny-Jhee/Shutterstock

Annecy is called the “Pearl of the French Alps.” Because of its location, squeezed between Lake Annecy and the Semnoz mountains, Annecy can’t grow much — so it has preserved its old town as it was centuries ago, threaded with more canals than roads. It’s not packed with tourist attractions or booming nightlife. Its charm comes instead from peaceful waterways lined with pastel-colored houses, nonstop gelaterias, tiny cafes, and restaurants.

It’s a perfect place to get lost for a few hours and see where you end up. That could be at the weekly fresh fish and vegetable markets scattered around the dozens of bridges in the old town, or it might be at Chateau d’Annecy. The castle looms over the town from the top of a hill and was a residence for the Counts of Geneva before a series of fires caused them to abandon it. The nearby lake and mountains also make Annecy a fantastic destination for winter-sports enthusiasts. In fact, Annecy applied to host the 2018 Winter Olympics but lost to Pyeongchang.

5. Utrecht, Netherlands

Photo: Marc Venema/Shutterstock

You may have enjoyed the canals of Amsterdam, but Utrecht’s waterways are also lined with numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants. The unique wharves, which once accommodated medieval merchant ships, now provide patio and terrace space for people looking to enjoy a glass of wine. The center of town is a car-free pedestrian zone, so you can stroll the narrow and windy cobblestone streets at your leisure.

The inner canal ring is less than four miles long, making it easy to check out many of the oldest and quaintest parts of town in one day — even with stops for ice cream. For the best view across this picturesque city, don’t climb the Dom Tower. Instead, go to the V&D Department Store on the east side of Hoog Catharijne. On the top floor is a glass-faced bistro called La Place cafe; have a cup of coffee and enjoy the view without having to climb 465 steps up the tallest church steeple in the Netherlands. Rent a bike and you will see Utrecht in the best possible way — unless you want a gondola ride along the canals instead.

6. Stockholm, Sweden

Photo: Tupungato/Shutterstock

Sweden’s capital, an elegant city whose architecture dates as far back as the 13th century, spans 14 islands and holds over 50 bridges. Gamla Stan, the old town by Stockholm Palace (home of Sweden’s royal family) and many other government buildings, is built across a few small islands. Visit the Vasa Museum where you can see a massive 17th-century warship, then take a boat tour along the canals for a unique perspective on this city of islands.

If you visit Stockholm in the winter, you can see ice sheets being carried through the city on miles of waterways, and sometimes you will also see disgruntled swans or ducks, wondering why they can’t swim anywhere. Also in the winter, you can do skridskosegl, or skate sailing, which is like windsurfing but with ice skates. During either season, you can finish up a day of touring with a restful fika (coffee and pastry) in a waterside cafe — although you’ll be having it indoors in winter — or venture in search of some of the best eating in Scandinavia for dinner.

7. St. Petersburg, Russia

Photo: Roman Evgenev/Shutterstock

Technically part of Europe, Russia’s second largest city was founded on swampland. Peter the Great had the city drained into a series of canals modeled on Amsterdam’s iconic waterways, creating a city with 190 miles of rivers and canals. You can drift down the Moyka Canal and enjoy the stunning 18th-century mansions built along the banks, including several small palaces and the Pushkin Museum.

The 324-foot-wide Blue Bridge is the widest bridge in the whole city, although you might not even realize it’s a bridge since it’s home to bustling Saint Isaac’s Square. You can also go along the Winter Canal, which connects the Moyka with Bolshaya Neva, for some stunning views of the Rococo-style Winter Palace, the site of the famous February Revolution of 1917. Enjoy daytime boat trips along the numerous historical rivers and canals, or hit up a nighttime floating restaurant, which can feature live music and a wide range of local cuisine.


More like this: 11 incredible world cities best explored by water

The post 7 beautiful canal cities in Europe that aren’t Venice appeared first on Matador Network.

5 experiences for tequila lovers

Of all the holidays we look forward to throughout the year, Tequila Day might be the best — or at least the best excuse to drink. Whether tequila is your drink of choice, or you avoid it due to the bad memories it conjures, National Tequila Day is the day to let bygones be bygones and embrace the agave spirit. From touring tequila distilleries to taking a train through Mexico’s famous Tequila town, the birthplace of tequila, there is no shortage of ways to celebrate the holiday. Here are five of our favorite experiences for tequila lovers on Tequila Day — and if you missed out this year, remember that every day can be Tequila Day if you just believe.

1. Stay in a tequila barrel hotel

Photo: Matices Hotel de Barricas/Facebook

It’s always fun to get an inside look at the distilling process, but this might be more “inside” than you had in mind. Just outside Mexico’s Tequila town, a 45-minute drive from Guadalajara, you’ll find hotel rooms designed to look like tequila barrels. The barrels of the Matices Hotel de Barricas are located next to the La Cofradia tequila factory. The interior of the barrel-shaped rooms are (unsurprisingly) tequila-themed, with a view of the mountains and agave plants right outside your window.

2. Visit Tequila, Mexico

Photo: Noradoa/Shutterstock

The town of Tequila, Mexico is famous for being the birthplace of tequila. In fact, you can’t actually legally call it tequila unless it comes from either this town or the state of Jalisco (and a few other very small areas). It sits at the foot of the Rio Grande and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006 due to its bounty of agave crops, old ranches, and iconic distilleries. Here, tequila isn’t just a drink of choice, but integral to the local culture and identity of the town’s 40,000 residents. In addition to distilleries, the town also has tons of tequila shops and colorful hotels that cater to tequila enthusiasts.

3. Tour tequila distilleries

Photo: Casa Sauza

There are countless tequila distilleries in Mexico, but many are remote and difficult to visit. One of the most accessible tours that’s also one of the most fun and comprehensive is at the Casa Sauza distillery in Tequila, Mexico. Visitors will be able to plant their own agave, see Sauza’s antique bottles collection, partake in a fresh agave juice and blanco tequila tasting, and enjoy a Mexican barbecue. When it comes to sheer volume and range of distillery activities, it’s tough to beat Casa Sauza.

4. Ride the Tequila Train

A post shared by Jose Cuervo Express (@josecuervoexpress) on Jan 12, 2013 at 11:15am PST

All good trips are as much about the journey as they are about the destination, and traveling to Mexico’s famed Tequila town is no exception. Board the Jose Cuervo Express in Guadalajara en route to Tequila, Mexico, for a step back in time. The vintage black and gold train treats first-class guests to tequila tastings, complete with a spread of candied agave, coffee beans, shreds of oak barrel, and lime rinds. A master tequilier will explain everything you need to know about tequila on your journey, including how to test for tequila quality, and how to savor tequila the right way — take in a breath, hold it, take a sip, swallow, then breathe out. By the time you reach Tequila town, you might forget that the train itself wasn’t the main event.

5. Indulge in an all-inclusive tequila weekend

Photo: Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, Mexico/Facebook

If you would prefer a more all-inclusive, luxury-style experience, the Four Seasons Punta Mita on Mexico’s Pacific Coast offers a comprehensive range of activities for tequila lovers. The Four Seasons Punta Mita has a vast collection of tequila, exceeding 200 varieties, including an extensive selection of mescal. For $150, guests can take advantage of the resort’s tequila tasting and blending program, where you’ll be able to create your own personal blend with the guidance of the resort’s concierge. The resort also offers cooking classes where traditional Mexican dishes are paired with the optimal tequila complement, as well as tours of nearby distilleries near Punta Mita and Puerto Vallarta.


More like this: You can take this new tequila train through Napa Valley

The post 5 epic experiences for tequila enthusiasts on National Tequila Day appeared first on Matador Network.

9 dreamiest Airbnbs in France

With a bit of thoughtful planning, you can take in the sights, smells, and flavors of the south of France with a fancy spot to come home to each night, thanks to these epic and affordable Airbnbs. Each of these listings is within walking distance to popular attractions and is less than $125 per night, leaving you time to explore and some cash to spend on food (the real reason you’re there). Here are nine dreamy Airbnbs for a fantastic stay in the south of France.

1. Modern duplex loft on Masséna Plaza, Nice

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

You’ll be right on the gorgeous Masséna Plaza without sacrificing the proximity to the sea with this full loft in Nice. The nearby shoreline is the stuff of legend, so hit the beach (the Promenade des Anglais is only a 13-minute walk away, and the closest beach is even closer), check out Nice’s Old Town, and maybe even spend a night cooking a romantic dinner in the full kitchen — all for just $94 per night.

2. Sea view spa in Fabron, Nice

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Life is good when you’re sitting in a hot tub on a private rooftop that’s overlooking the city of Nice. That’s what’s on offer here at this eight-person, renovated flat overlooking both Nice and the glittering Mediterranean Sea for only $111 per night. You’ll be a comfortable distance from the bustle of the city center but close enough to the neighborhood’s businesses that you’ll be able to hit the boulangerie for croissants every morning. You’re also not far from the restaurants dotting the waterfront.

3. Waterfront house with a private beach and swimming pool, Cannes

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Cannes is the ultimate French town when it comes to having a glamorous, sunny vacation by the beach. And, La Croisette, the mile-long plaza that runs alongside the shore, might just be the best place in the world to pop the question — even if that question is ‘Which seaside patio cafe beckons us for dinner?” The best part about this luxurious seaside spot is that you have a private beach, free from speedo-clad tourists, along with a pool, hot tub, and an entire house to relax in. Plus, you won’t be sitting on that private beach all by yourself — the place sleeps five so you can bring your crew with you. All for only $111 per night.

4. Cozy place in Panier/Vieux Port, Marseille

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

The flat itself is small, but that’s okay because the location is unbeatable and it’s only $63 per night. You’ll be right in the heart of the city’s two most exciting districts, Panier and Vieux Port, which puts you in walking distance or an easy commute to just about anything there is to do in Marseille. Meander to the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, brush up on European history at the Mucem, and then chill out over a glass of wine on your balcony.

5. Studio with amazing sea view, Toulon

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This one’s a studio but you won’t find a more romantic spot in all of Toulon — especially for $57 a night. The Mediterranean Sea is right across the street and you can walk to the restaurants, food markets, and cultural attractions that make up the city. After a day on the town or at the beach, make your way back to relax on the balcony overlooking the water.

6. Private guesthouse right on the water, Saint-Tropez

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This private guesthouse which sleeps two and is literally steps from the water is quintessentially tropézienne. The color and rustic decor of the house, the yard, and the location could not lend to a more authentic experience. Saint-Tropez is small, but it’s a Mediterranean destination that packs a punch. So, after you’ve walked through the neighborhood and checked out the old port, stroll back to your place and relax by the water.

7. Charming apartment, Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This quaint studio apartment located in the heart of Saint-Paul-de-Vence is just what you need if you’re looking for an accommodation that screams French character. From there, you’ll be able to easily plan your own tour of the city center’s historic buildings and check out the many galleries and art studios. You can also gaze out the window at the skyline as you lie in bed, winding down after a day of exploring the town. Despite being a studio, the flat sleeps four to help you split that $106 per night rate.

8. Quiet and charming house in downtown Montpellier

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

The listings in Montpellier are compact and cheap, but certainly don’t skimp on city views. This guesthouse sleeps four right in the heart of the city, close to the tram station (which will take you to the beach), the city’s markets, and museums (only a 10-minute walk away). The rental has a garden and pool onsite, and is built and designed in a manner that encapsulates the city’s historic charm.

9. 5-person flat in a fancy resort, Grimaud

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This apartment and the surrounding property is a resort in itself, complete with a large pool and pristine views of the waterfront and encompassing nature. Plus, if you look closely at the photos within the listing, you’ll notice the onsite waterslide. Not bad for $82 per night.


More like this: The 11 dreamiest Airbnbs in Italy

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Most popular cars around the world

When you think of driving down the highway, with the window down and the radio blaring, you probably don’t imagine doing so in a Lada, a Trabant, or a Mini (you wouldn’t hear the music over the sound of the engine, anyway). Yet, these cars, symbols of the countries in which they were designed or adopted, are probably the most recognizable vehicles in the world. Some may now be regarded as “the worst cars in history,” but that doesn’t take away from their cool AF status. Here are the seven most iconic cars from around the world and the stories behind their popularity.

1. The Fiat 500, Italy

Photo: Olga Gavrilova/Shutterstock

There is nothing more quintessentially Italian than cruising the streets of Rome in a Fiat 500 (if you can handle the way Romans drive, that is). The Fiat 500 Cinquecento was developed from an earlier model endearingly called Topolino (“little mouse”) and was designed to be a small, affordable car for all Italians. The original model was only nine feet long, and it hasn’t grown much over the years. Launched in 1957, it was designed to fit the winding, narrow streets that are common throughout Italy. It’s gone through many iterations over the years but remains a popular car, with over 60,000 modern Fiat 500s sold worldwide in the first quarter of 2018 alone.

2. The Citroën 2CV, France

Photo: Oleksandr Berezko/Shutterstock

The Citroën 2CV was the first taste of motoring freedom in France following World War II. Although the car was designed in 1939 — to original specifications that included the ability to carry “four people and 50kg of potatoes or a demijohn of wine” — it wasn’t launched for the public until 1948. Despite its incredibly bouncy ride, the car was extremely popular. It was just what the average French family needed, and its popularity expanded worldwide — selling in over 40 countries. Ask any French person born in the fifties what their parents or their own first car was and you’re sure to hear the 2CV mentioned a lot. While production ended in 1990, you can still see many of these funny cars buzzing around France.

3. The Lada Niva, USSR/Russia

Photo: Nikolai Denisov/Shutterstock

The Lada Niva (“Niva” is Russian for “crop field”) won’t win any prizes for its beauty. Best described as a compact box on wheels, it was designed in the 1970s to provide a cheap automotive off-roader. It had to be sturdy enough for farmers working in the fields, but zippy enough to serve the urban proletariat. Despite being the butt of jokes universally, Lada Nivas have actually managed to infiltrate most corners of the globe and they’re still in production today. If you want your very own slice of Soviet history, you can still pick up a Lada Niva in Russia or Germany, or an updated model in the US, but beware — given Lada’s multiple manufacturing plants worldwide, it might not be a blue Russian build.

4. The Mini, United Kingdom

Photo: Evannovostro/Shutterstock

The Mini always brings to mind two things: the Spice Girls, and Mr. Bean. The original Mini was produced by the British Motor Corporation and its successors from 1959 to 2000, after which, BMW took over manufacturing. Designed to be economical due to the Suez Crisis and fuel rationing, it was originally launched as the Morris Mini Minor. Because of its small size and cost, the Mini (and its various iterations prior to 2000) sold 5.3 million units, making it the best-selling British car of all time. While modern Minis owe little to their earlier counterparts, the original Mini is recognized as a British design icon, and has been used to advertise everything from tea bags to transatlantic flights.

5. The Yugo, former Yugoslavia

Photo: Yugotour/Facebook

Lovingly referred to as the worst car in history, the Zastava Koral or Zastava 102 — more commonly known as the Yugo — was a poorly-designed abomination released on the world by the former Republic of Yugoslavia. While it was popular on its home turf following its release in 1980, it was less successful overseas. Despite being priced at only $3,990 at its American launch in 1986, Cold War tensions and the car’s terrible performance did little to raise its popularity. If you’re heading to Serbia, you might be lucky enough to spot one on the street — but why take the chance? Yugotour gives you the opportunity to cruise Belgrade in your very own Yugo for your own slice of Yugonostalgia.

6. The Volkswagen Beetle, Mexico

Photo: sunsinger/Shutterstock

The Beetle, a popular family car designed in Germany in the 1930s, made its debut in Mexico at a 1954 German industry show. People came from far and wide to view this funny little round car, and Mexico was hooked. 50,000 Beetles were purchased in Mexico during the first year following its release, and they were eventually produced in the country. Easy to fix and fun to drive, Mexican taxi drivers adopted the Beetle as their official vehicle, which were known locally as the “Vocho.” Although Volkswagen Beetle taxis were made illegal in Mexico City six years ago due to their high emission rate, you can still find them on the streets of smaller Mexican cities.

7. The Trabant, Germany

Photo: Michal Durinik/Shutterstock

For East Germans, the Trabant was the car to have. Not that there was much choice on the market. Left with an old auto factory and a need to supply its people with cost-effective cars once the Berlin Wall went up, the East German government developed the Trabant — and it spluttered its way into history. Produced from 1957 to 1990, the car was made from a unique mixture of materials including old soiled rags from the USSR, cotton fiber, and plastic. Due to a lack of competition and availability, families waited years for a beloved Trabi — even if the two-stroke engine had a bad habit of dying. Even with its automotive shortcomings, a Trabant remains a popular collector’s item to this day.


More like this: This map shows the top-selling car model in every country

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Chicago expressions you need to know

If you’re planning a trip to Chicago or thinking about moving here, you’ll need to be up to date on your Chicagoisms to understand us locals, and avoid the embarrassment of committing the verbal equivalent of putting ketchup on your hotdog. We drink “pop” (never soda), work out in “gym shoes,” and sometimes knock back “a couple of two, three beers” because saying “a few beers” is just boring. Here are 19 more expressions you need to learn before visiting Chicago.

1. “Sox Park”

“Sox Park” is where the Chicago White Sox baseball team play their home games on the South Side. You can also call it by its old name “Comiskey Park,” or just “Comiskey,” but nobody ever calls it by its actual name, the horrible “Guaranteed Rate Field.”

2. “Where is that at?”

Chicagoans always add unnecessary prepositions at the end of sentences. “Where is the party at?” “Do you want to go with?” and so on.

3. “Cooler near the lake”

“Cooler near the lake” is a saying you hear on most weather reports throughout the Chicago summer. It’s just what it sounds like; temperatures are usually cooler the closer you are to the Lake.

4. “The Lake”

“The Lake” is Lake Michigan.

5. “The River”

“The River” is the Chicago River.

6. “Wrigley”

“Wrigley” can mean Wrigley Field where the Chicago Cubs play, or it can mean the entire neighborhood of Wrigleyville that surrounds the stadium.

7. “Dipped”

Those in the know order their Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich “dipped.” Once the sandwich is made (either a hot beef or a sweet beef depending on the peppers you choose), it’s given a dunk in the jus (gravy) that the beef cooks in, making the bread soggy and delicious. This can also be called “baptizing the beef.”

8. “The UC”

The Chicago Bulls and the Chicago Blackhawks play their home games at the United Center, also known as “the UC.”

9. “The Greatest”

There is only one “The Greatest” and he goes by the name of Michael Jordan. You can also refer to him by “His Airness,” “Jordan,” or just “Mike.” Don’t come into Chicago spouting off any nonsense about LeBron or anyone else being the greatest of all time. We don’t take too kindly to that here in the Chi.

10. “Celery salt”

“Celery salt” is one of the essential ingredients of a Chicago-style hot dog, along with chopped white onions, tomatoes, a pickle, mustard, relish, and (optional) sport peppers.

11. “Bum a square”

It’s pretty likely someone will come up to you on the street in Chicago and ask to “bum a square.” A “square” is a cigarette and they’re asking you for one.

12. “The Sears Tower”

The tallest building in Chicago is the “Sears Tower.” We don’t care that it was officially renamed “Willis Tower” in 2009, it will always be the Sears Tower to us.

13. “Giardiniera”

“Giardiniera” is the essential Chicago condiment. There are many different varieties but the most common version is pickled hot peppers, celery, carrot, cauliflower, and olives, packed in oil. There are spicy and mild varieties and Chicagoans put it on everything from Italian beef to pizza.

14. “The Big Green Limousine”

This is an old name for the city buses from back when Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) buses were green and white. Taking the “Big Green Limousine” means taking the bus.

15. “Dibs”

“Dibs” is the practice of reserving a parking spot that you shoveled snow out of. Dibs is claimed by putting various pieces old furniture in your spot and maybe laying a board between them.

16. “LSD”

Taking “LSD” in Chicago means driving on Lake Shore Drive. Locals also call it “Lake Shore” or “The Drive.”

17. “Chads and Trixies”

“Chads and Trixies” are the yuppie types who live in neighborhoods like Wrigleyville, Lincoln Park, and River North. Most of them are graduates from various Big Ten universities around the Midwest, and almost none of them are Chicago natives.

18. “Viagra Triangle”

Rush Street is an area full of bars, restaurants, and dance clubs. The area draws a lot of older rich guys looking for pretty, younger women, and lots of young women looking for rich older men. In the center of it all, three streets come together to form a triangle, hence, “The Viagra Triangle.”

19. “The L”

“The L” is short for “the elevated” which is how a majority of Chicago’s train lines run. You can also just say the color of the line you’re on (e.g. “I’m on the Red Line”). If you just say “take the CTA,” you’re covering trains and buses, but not the commuter trains to the suburbs, which are just called by their name — “Metra.”

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Doctor Who escape rooms are coming

The long-running sci-fi show Doctor Who is about to undergo its next evolution, as the BBC is bringing its popular fictional universe from the TV screen to live escape rooms across the UK. The interactive puzzle experiences will become available for fans in December 2018 in Bristol’s Escape Hunt venue, before expanding to Birmingham, Leeds, Oxford, and Reading in early 2019.

Right now, no details have been released about how the rooms will operate, or what they’ll look like, but fans can already register for the experience on the Escape Hunt website as well as reserve their ticket. Escape Hunt CEO Richard Harpham said in a press release, “We are thrilled to be partnering with BBC Studios to create Doctor Who — The Life Escape Game.” He added that since escape rooms are all about experiencing new worlds, a Doctor Who theme was a no-brainer. “Doctor Who represents the very best in British action adventure and has a loyal and dedicated fan base that spans all generations.”

And it sounds like this isn’t the only live Doctor Who experience on the horizon. BBC Studios is working on several Doctor Who-themed attractions, activities, and experiences over the coming months and years, to satiate the thirst of an ever-growing fan base. It’s safe to say that fans of the series will be busy in the next few months, especially since a brand new season (season 11) is also coming this autumn.

The Doctor Who escape room follows in the tradition of a similarly immersive Sherlock-themed experience. If it proves successful, we might be seeing an increasing number of escape rooms inspired by popular TV shows.

H/T: RadioTimes

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