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Most cliche places to propose

Choosing where to propose can feel overwhelming. At first, your options can seem endless. Maybe you decide to confess your love in front of all your friends and family, or perhaps it’s just the two of you. Maybe you get down on one knee in the exact place you first met, or perhaps simply in the middle of your messy kitchen. Or, of course, you could go with one of the most popular proposal strategies: on your romantic vacation abroad. Proposals should be intimate, personal, and if possible, original, meaning you should probably avoid the most cliche places to propose around the world.

When deciding where to propose, the last thing you want is that last anxious glance around to be met with other people also getting down on one knee. So where can you propose while keeping it fresh? Here are the 10 most cliche places to propose around the world, and suggestions of where to go nearby instead that are just as romantic — but far more unique.

1. Eiffel Tower, Paris

Photo: Stephen Leonardi

The Eiffel Tower, and Paris in general, tops the list as one of the most cliche places to propose. Paris is, essentially, the definition of romance, so it’s no wonder you may consider the City of Love as the stage of your proposition. But don’t be surprised if countless others choose to confess their undying love under the same gaze of the Eiffel Tower, making it a bit less special.

The alternative: Montmartre, Paris

Photo: Catarina Belova

Montmartre may still be a bit of a tourist trap, but step away from the center and you can find dozens of hidden spots for the perfect proposal: leafy trees, cobblestone alleys, gorgeous views of Paris (including Eiffel, herself). Besides, Montmartre is considered one of the most picturesque areas of the city, so you still get the romance vibe with a bit more privacy. Here, you can still “always have Paris”, but without the cliche.

2. Empire State Building, New York City

Photo: Walkerssk

New York City is Paris’ biggest rival, exuding a nighttime allure of twinkling city lights sprawled out in front of you. But the observation deck of the Empire State Building will be swarming with couples reenacting the end scene of Sleepless in Seattle, making proposing there feel decidedly tacky if you aren’t a rom-com buff. Plus it’s incredibly windy up there, which won’t make for a good photo op.

The alternative: The High Line, New York City

Photo: Francois Roux/Shutterstock

Why ogle the skyline from above when you can literally be a part of it? The verdant High Line lets you walk amongst Gotham’s giants. And although you’ll find other viewpoint enthusiasts, you can count on a little more peace and quiet, and originality. Tip: go at dusk for that beautiful golden hour glow.

3. Central Park, New York City

Photo: Roberto Nickson

And since we’re on the subject of NYC, let’s bring up Central Park. Yes, it’s gorgeous, it’s the setting of many rom-coms and romantic ballads, and it’ll steal your heart as you stroll hand-in-hand, locking eyes with your one-and-only — eye-roll-worthy much? Central Park is definitely one of the more cheesy places to propose in the city.

The alternative: Prospect Park, New York City

Photo: Kostakes

Prospect Park, Brooklyn, was designed by the same person as Central Park. Although it’s not quite as grand or famous, it’ll give you the urban green space vibes you’re looking for with fewer people around — plus there’s a lake you can ice skate on in the winter that’s far less populated than Central Park’s.

4. Niagara Falls, Canada

Photo: Vishwesh Jirgale

Niagara is a hotbed for weddings, and perhaps it’s the incredible roar of the falls that gives you those romantic tingles. But it’s almost guaranteed that you won’t be the only ones celebrating love. Plus, there are too many magnificent waterfalls to settle on such an obvious choice.

The alternative: Gullfoss Falls, Iceland

Photo: Puripat Lertpunyaroj

Although Iceland is a popular destination at the moment, it’s still a fairly unique place to travel to for a proposal that’s just a hop, skip and a jump away from Canada. If you’re looking for a powerful cascade, one with accessibility and incredible views, then Gullfoss is a perfect alternative.

5. In a hot air balloon over your boring hometown

Photo: Business Stock/Shutterstock

I honestly think a proposal in a hot air balloon would be incredibly romantic, especially considering the fact that these rides include a glow-induced sunrise and sunset liftoff. It can certainly be more private, with just you, your sweetie, and the individual in charge of your personal safety. But why pay all that money to get sweeping views of flatlands or the suburbs where you currently live?

The alternative: Cappadocia, Turkey

Photo: Symonenko Viktoriia

Trade in the local hot air balloon field in middle-of-nowhere USA for being surrounded by them in one of the most mesmerizing places on earth, with its distinctive chimney rocks that look like the surface of another planet. You’ll score the pink tones and the romance of the balloons, but also the magical Turkish landscape.

6. Disneyworld/Disneyland

Photo: StockSnap

Despite its carefree vibes and the child-like romance of the Disney Castle at night, the crowds and the cost should be the first thing to deter you. Also, no one likes adults that want to have couples brunch with Prince Charming and Cinderella.

The alternative: Lakeside Amusement Park, Denver

Photo: Lakeside Amusement Park

Get a little vintage by popping the question at the “Coney Island of the West,” Lakeside Amusement Park. You can still get all the childlike glee here, but with the hipster vibes of red-striped Tilt-a-Whirl cars and a 1908 carousel. I mean, even the bathrooms feel like a Wes Anderson movie. Talk about originality.

7. The London Eye, London

Photo: Arkadiusz Radek

The rush of riding one of the world’s tallest Ferris wheels, and gazing down at one of the world’s most iconic cities, will give you all the feels. That said, I hope the crowds, the wait, and the cost deters you from falling for one of the most cliche places in London to propose. Plus it’s kind of awkward to propose at the top, and still have about a half hour ride to the bottom stuck in a capsule with strangers… There are so many other, far more romantic places in the city.

The alternative: Side streets of Kensington, London

Photo: Bruno Martins

The London Eye may feel like the most iconic thing to do, but what can possibly be more British than an adorable, color-cladded mew in Kensington, one of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods? Your soulmate will never forget the moment you put a ring on it amongst pastel facades and twisting ivy.

8. A gondola in Venice

Photo: Maridav/Shutterstock

It’s scenic, I’ll give you that. Meandering Venice’s canals in a gondola, your gondolier donned in stripes will certainly feel like a fairytale… until you bump side-by-side with dozens of other tourists.

The alternative: Alberoni Beach, Venice Lido

Photo: andras_csontos/Shutterstock

If you are headstrong about proposing in Venice, swap a gondola for a ferry and Alberoni Beach, located at the end of Lido. Stroll away from the masses and find privacy amongst the beach grass and sand dunes.

9. Trevi Fountain, Rome

Photo: Weareaway

Exploring Rome’s twisting streets, sampling gelato, and listening to wafting street music is pure romance. But one turn into Trevi Fountain and your jaw will drop as you take in the crowds. Lucky you, Rome is a city of fountains, so you don’t have to drop to one knee at this tourist hotspot and risk being trampled.

The alternative: Paola Water Fountain, Rome

Photo: Massimo Salesi

It’s no Trevi, but this fountain sits at the base of a beautiful church high atop Janiculum Hill. Not only do you get a little more privacy, but the city views alone are worth it.

10. Las Vegas

Photo: Bradley Wentzel

Considering that Las Vegas is the place where the highly imbibed can tie the knot whilst gambling, I think we can easily label it as one of the most overrated places to propose. Do you really want Elvis impersonators in the background of your proposal snapshot?

The alternative: Monaco

Photo: S-F/Shutterstock

You’ll still achieve all the glitz and glam of Vegas, but with a bit more class.Monaco has the vibrancy of both French and Italian cultures. Yes, it’s expensive, but there are many private beaches on the train ride between Monaco and Antibes which are affordable and exude southern French charm.


More like this: 14 unbearably romantic places around the world to get engaged

The post The 10 most cliche places to propose (and where to propose instead) appeared first on Matador Network.

Most likely way to die abroad

Travel is an almost absurdly safe activity. Taking the long view, the world is the safest it’s ever been. There’s less war, less violence, wider access to healthcare and clean water, and more interconnectivity than ever. If you’re in a pinch — say you break your legs in a remote part of Nepal — you can call in a helicopter evacuation and get to a hospital. That’s not how it was before. Before, you just died. This is not the impression most of us get when we read about the rest of the world, though. The world seems to be getting darker, more frightening, and infinitely more dangerous. But that’s because humans have a bias towards the dramatic and violent.

It’s the ocean paradox: a lot of people are scared of swimming in the ocean because of sharks. It’s understandable, the thought of a razor-toothed monster lurking beneath you in the briny depths, waiting to rip your legs off and drag you down to drown in agony, is a fairly frightening one. But on average, six people die of shark attacks worldwide each year. 360,000 die globally from drowning. We’re afraid of the wrong things.

For travelers, the things we’re most scared of are terrorist attacks and plane crashes. But these deaths — horrifying and violent though they may be — are not the ways we’re most likely to die while traveling. It’s worth taking a minute to look at the numbers: how do Americans usually die while abroad?

How we die abroad

First, there are relatively few of us who die abroad. Between 2002 and 2015, an average of 827 Americans died of unnatural causes while abroad each year. This may sound like a lot, but 68 million Americans travel abroad each year, and the vast majority of them end up returning home. So it’s still a rare occurrence.

Second, the most common ways of dying change based on the country we’re visiting. In the Bahamas, where we tend to go for their beach vacations, 15 American citizens died in 2017. Of these, 12 people drowned. Vietnam, on the other hand, has notoriously dangerous roads — of the 13 Americans who died there in 2017, all but two were in vehicular accidents.

Third, we tend to die at higher rates in places we go to more. Of the 803 Americans who died abroad in 2017, 247 died in Mexico. This is not necessarily indicative of Mexico being more dangerous — it’s just where we go the most. 35 million Americans went to Mexico in 2016, making up nearly half of the total trips we took abroad. So if anything, there’s a lower death rate there. The best way to judge a place’s safety is not in the total deaths, but rather by the number of deaths per visitors. By this measure, according to a study in Time Magazine, the most dangerous country Americans visit, by a large margin is, surprisingly, Thailand. Americans are more than twice as likely to die there then they are in the next four most dangerous countries (Vietnam, Costa Rica, the Philippines, and Australia). You’ll notice none of those countries are places we typically think of as horribly dangerous.

The State Department stores each American death in a database, noting the date, the city, and the way that the American citizen died, and perusing it will give you a good idea of just how common certain types of deaths are — we almost never die in terrorist attacks abroad. But a lot of us die in car crashes.

1. Traffic accidents

Car accidents are the leading cause of death for Americans abroad, accounting for about one-fifth of the total over time. This is unsurprising, as car accidents regularly kill over 30,000 Americans a year at home. The State Department expands the number out to also include motorcycle accidents, bike accidents, bus accidents, and so on. With all of these included, just under a third of Americans who die outside the country are dying in traffic accidents.

2. Homicides

About 18% of Americans who die abroad are murdered, and those who end up getting murdered abroad tend to find themselves caught up in drug violence — Mexico again leads the pack, and again the murders tend to take place in areas where the cartels have a strong presence. The other countries that Americans get murdered in disproportionately high rates (the Philippines, the Dominican Republic, Honduras, and Haiti) are places that either already have issues with drug violence, or simply have high murder rates anyway — they usually aren’t targeting Americans specifically. We should note that terrorism deaths are not included in this number.

3. Suicide

A lot of Americans kill themselves while abroad. This accounts for roughly 14% of total deaths — most of these suicides occur in Mexico, but there is also a high amount in Germany, Thailand, Korea, and Japan.

4. Drowning

Around 1 in 8 deaths abroad is from drowning, and the majority of these are on beaches. These deaths are common anywhere we go that there are beaches, but the country with the highest drowning rates by a good margin is Costa Rica.

5. Other deaths

No other single cause of death takes up much space on the charts. In 2017, only eight people died in terrorist attacks abroad (accounting for 1% of the total deaths). Nine died for “drug-related” reasons — presumably overdoses. Two died in natural disasters, five in plane crashes, and six in maritime accidents. The only other sizable chunk is categorized as “Other accidents,” which takes up nearly 13% of the year’s total — but this encompasses a huge number of things. It could be falls, hiking tragedies, ski accidents, or even snakebites.

We’re scared of the wrong things

It is understandable that some people should feel trepidation with going abroad — the world is a vast and sometimes intimidating place, and it can confront us with dangers that we’ve never had to deal with at home. But the things that send us most into a panic spiral when we look at our trips abroad — plane crashes and terrorism specifically — just aren’t that huge of a risk. The number of Americans who die while traveling abroad is already minuscule, and the ones who die suddenly tend to die of things that may well have killed them at home.

To keep yourself safe while traveling, practice good common sense, and stay abreast of the latest State Department Travel Advisories. But don’t let the fear of the unknown get in the way of living your life. Caution is smart — blind fear is not.


More like this: 5 common travel fears that shouldn’t keep you from going abroad

The post These are the ways you’re most likely to die while traveling appeared first on Matador Network.

Actually cool cruises

If the word “cruise” brings to your mind cringe-worthy images of older people in towel shorts and Hawaiian shirts stuffing their faces at an all-you-can-eat buffet before making their way to a corny magic show, you’re not alone. Although cruises seem at the antipodes of what adventure travelers usually look for — thrills, wildlife, profound cultural experiences — they are not all one and the same. There are some incredibly cool cruises out there that young, badass travelers will enjoy without losing street cred. Here are seven of them.

1. UnCruise Adventures

Photo: UnCruise Adventures

It’s not called “UnCruise” for nothing. This company organizes trips that are the opposite of what you’d experience on a traditional cruise ship. UnCruise Adventures operates small ships that take travelers to remote locations around the world to explore nature and check out wildlife. The ships can accommodate between 22 and 86 passengers depending on the trip, so it’s nothing like massive vessels that transport nearly 6,000 people — the experience is much more personal.

If you like a little extra thrill, we recommend their adventure cruises over their river cruises. Depending on your location, you’ll be kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, and looking for wildlife in all types of weather during the day and going back to the ship at night to get to your next spot. The meals are gourmet and the staff will go out of their way to fulfill any dietary needs or preferences you may have. UnCruise provides all the equipment for you to get out there and explore (we at Matador have personally tried and tested UnCruise’s adventure cruises in Hawaii and Alaska and highly recommend them). Check out the full list of destinations here.

2. The Groove Cruise

Photo: GrooveCruise.com

If Burning Man and Shambhala Music festival are your jam, you’re a good candidate for The Groove Cruise; this short rave cruise is all about costumes, thumping music, and a whole lot of wild party-goers. The Groove Cruise is, according to them, “the largest floating dance music festival in the world.” DJs play music for 96 hours straight for 3,000 people whose goal is to let it all out for one weekend of utter depravity on the water.

The Groove Cruise sails out of Florida and California to destinations in Mexico only once a year, but you won’t be onboard for 4 days straight, as the ships anchor to some great locations along the to party onshore. In 2018 (October 10th-14th), the ship will sail from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas; in 2019 (January 10th-14th), the Fort Lauderdale cruise will stop in Key West before heading to Cozumel, Mexico. Note that there are still spots available for both sailings.

If you want to know what it’s really like to be onboard The Groove cruise before you book your tix, read our account of the experience back in 2015 here.

3. Quark Expeditions

Photo: Kyle Marquardt, Quark Expeditions

Quark only sails to the Arctic or Antarctica, so straight off the bat, you know that what they offer is not a typical cruise, but a true expedition for travelers who are deeply interested in remote and largely untouched regions of the world.

Quark does not operate cruise ships per say, but small expedition ships and icebreakers, carrying fewer than 200 passengers. You’ll still be comfortable with chef-prepared meals, but don’t think you’ll be sailing on something similar to the Queen Mary 2 — it’s not that type of vessel or trip. Also unlike run-of-the-mill cruises, there’s no sitting around the ship eating and lounging — Quark organizes daily outdoor activities (zodiac cruise, hiking, kayaking, snowshoeing, even some swimming) for those who are motivated.

If you’re into wildlife, you’re in for a treat as Quark organizes penguin safaris, polar bear-focused trips, and sailings dedicated to see birds. Quark is serious about sustainability and conversation and follows very strict guidelines to keep the polar regions are clean as possible, so if you want to visit the Arctic and/or Antarctica, but are feeling guilty about the impact of cruise ships on these regions, know that Quark is super committed to environmentally-responsible tourism.

Traveling with Quark is not cheap, but you’re going to very remote locations on floating hotels for over a week, so that’s to be expected.

4. U by Uniworld

Photo: U by Uniworld

Among young, adventurous travelers, river cruises have a reputation for being boring — and usually for good reason. Uniworld River Cruises’ usual target demographic is baby boomers with traditional tastes, but what millennial want to a go on a dull Bordeaux, Vineyards, & Châteaux Cruise? Thankfully, they offer a fresh alternative for the younger crowd: U by Uniworld.

The U by Uniworld ships are very stylish and modern (complete with a trendy matte black exterior) to suit the preferences of the younger guests. The cruises have clubs and silent discos; rooftop yoga and mixology classes; and daily activities like kayaking, paragliding, street art tours, blokarting, brewery tours, etc. in between city tours and museum/monument visits. Also, no one above age 45 is allowed on these cruises, so you’re sure to be in your cool, millennial bubble the entire time.

5. Lindblad Expeditions — National Geographic

Photo: Lindblad Expeditions

Right away, because they are in an alliance with Nat Geo, you know that some seriously cool traveling is happening with Lindblad Expeditions.

Lindblad operates 11 expeditions ships (not luxury cruise ships) that carry between 28 and 148 guests, so the sailings remain intimate. Also, because of their size, these ships are able to go where huge cruise ships can’t, giving guests the opportunity to get closer to some seemingly unreachable places and the wildlife that lives there.

As you’d expect, Lindbald’s trips are not spent looking at the landscape or the wildlife from the deck. Instead, each ship has exploration tools such as stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, zodiacs, and scuba diving/snorkelling gear to get you closer to what you want to see. Some ships even have glass bottoms, hydrophones, and underwater cameras so the discoveries continue when you’re on the ship.

All Lindbald’s trips have naturalists on board (with specialties such as archaeology and marine biology) to provide as much expertise to the guests as possible. Some of the trips even have Nat Geo photographers and experts to give you tips and lectures. Lindblad’s list of destinations touches every continent and all the sailings look incredible, so it’d be very hard to pick just one. Our personal favorite is their trip on the Amazon River on a gorgeous ship that carries only 28 guests. But the experiences don’t come cheap — you’ll probably need to save up for a while before you can afford a trip with Lindblad Expeditions.

6. Mark Carwardine Holidays

Photo: Mark Carwardine Photography & Tours

Mark Carwardine is an all-around amazing zoologist, conservationist, and wildlife photographer. He is especially well-known for “Last Chance to See,” the book he wrote with Douglas Adams about their trip around the world observing endangered species. The guy’s incredibly knowledgeable and a relaxed, no-frill adventurer, and you can travel with him to wildlife hotspots around the world.

All year long, Mark Carwardine organizes trips during which he takes a small bunch of people and goes looking for some of the most incredible wildlife on the planet. Carwardine’s most popular and well-known trip is his whale-watching tour in Baja California, Mexico. He’s been organizing this trip about 4 times a year since 1999 and believes that Baja California is the best place in the world for whale and dolphin-watching.

This marine safari takes place on The Spirit of Adventure, a small but comfortable vessel that take guests along the entire 800-mile-long Pacific coast of Baja California and in the waters of the Sea of Cortez in search of marine wildlife. The trip also includes some sailing on Mexican pangas to get as close as possible to the whales. Snorkeling with whale sharks is an option during this trip, but you’ll need to pay extra.

These cruises book up fast, but you can put your name down on a waiting list and/or book one of the several 2019 and 2020 trips. Alternatively, Carwardine organizes other adventure cruises to Wrangel Island, whale-watching sailings in Eastern Russia, and many others.

7. WildPhoto Travel

Photo: WildPhoto Travel

This one’s for the photographers who like cold, remote places. WildPhoto Travel operates out of Lonyearbyen in Svalbard, an archipelago located between mainland Norway and the North Pole, so they know their stuff when it comes to isolated areas with harsh climates.

WildPhoto Travel organizes trips to Greenland, Alaska, Antarctica, The Falkland Islands, and South Georgia, but their region of expertise and the destination they explore the most is their home turf: Svalbard.

When sailings around the Norwegian archipelago, WildPhoto Travel operates small ships that carry only 12 guests, so you are able to take full advantage of the knowledge of the two professional photographers-cum-naturalists on board. On and around Svalbard (the trip include some time on land), wildlife photographers can easily spot polar bears, walruses, several species of seals and birds, whales, arctic foxes, and the very unique Svalbard reindeers. There are two zodiacs available on each ship for the guests and guides to get closer to the ice, the glaciers, and the animals. Over the years they have had several clients winning international photo competitions with pictures taken on their tours.

Matador Network contributor Audun Dahl is a photographer and guide for WildPhoto Travel. Check out his Svalbard photography work and be inspired to book a Svalbard expedition with WildPhoto Travel.


More like this: Mapped: The world’s most popular cruise ship destinations

The post 7 actually cool cruises that are nothing like the ones your parents take appeared first on Matador Network.

Rules for dating Alaskan guy

There’s a lot to love about Alaskan men, but to the layperson, it might not be obvious what makes them tick. For non-Alaskans, dating a man from the Last Frontier can mean embracing a whole new lifestyle. Stick to these 10 commandments and you’ll be well on your way to a happy relationship with your Alaskan guy.

1. Thou shalt be prepared for distance.

Maybe he works on the slope, two weeks on, two weeks off. Or he’s a commercial fisherman or service member gone for months at a time. Whatever his employment situation, dating an Alaskan man often means getting comfortable with distance. It can be tough, but it also gives you the best of both worlds — copious amounts of “me” time when he’s away, and a deeper appreciation for the time you do get to spend together.

2. Thou shalt respect his fishing addiction.

If he’s like most Alaskan men, there’s hardly anything in life more important to him than fishing. Be prepared to spend weekends at the river catching salmon, steelhead, and rainbow trout, and to smile and nod as he tells the same dubious fishing stories again and again. After you gain his trust, you may get to learn his secret fishing spots and soak up some of the well-earned knowledge he’s acquired over the years.

3. Thou shalt tolerate his crazy antics.

Tinkerers by nature, Alaskan men always have their hands dirty with one project or another. His devotion to fixing up boats or cars and wielding power tools may be admirable, but you might find his safety standards a little questionable. You’re not wrong to get nervous when he wants to take a leaky dinghy for a test run or shoot off fireworks a little close to the treeline, but eventually, you’ll learn to strike the proper balance between being supportive and giving him a needed reality check.

4. Thou shalt treat his friends like a second family.

Let’s be real, his bros are his second family — they go at least all the way back to elementary school, if not pre-K. Treat them well and they may pay you back ten-fold in embarrassing stories about how he used to eat paste, or that time he almost cut his finger off on a camping trip.

5. Thou shalt embrace facial hair.

He might get a little scruffy from time to time — when Alaskan men are on their grind or off in the middle of nowhere, shaving may not be their top priority. Even if it’s not entirely your thing, your best bet is to embrace his facial hair, and understand that growing a beard was serious a rite of passage for him in a state that fully embraces the lumberjack look.

6. Thou shalt never turn down an adventure.

Growing up in the Great Land, he spent 99 percent of his time outdoors, and his expeditions through the woods and on the water always felt like an adventure. He’s always up for good thrill, so dating him means you’ll get your fair share of adrenaline. And if you’re the plan-everything-months-in-advance type, jumping on last-minute trips with him might help you grow a spontaneous streak.

7. Thou shalt be a dog lover.

Alaskan men have a bond like no other with their dogs, who double as their constant adventure companions. You won’t get to his heart without winning over his puppy, so make sure to treat them right. You may feel like a third wheel at first, but eventually, you’ll get used to them coming along with you everywhere.

8. Thou shalt learn to love winter sports.

While your inclination might be to hull up and hibernate during the Alaskan winter, this may just be his favorite time of year. If you’re dating an Alaskan man, he’ll expect you to participate in his favorite winter sports, from skiing to pond hockey. With the right gear and some hand and foot-warmers, he might teach you to love the Alaskan winter as much as he does.

9. Thou shalt be cool with camo.

His wardrobe probably has a considerable amount of camo than he dons when he’s hunting, fishing, or just running around town. Whatever attempts you make to spiff him up, know that getting him to shed this staple is out of the question — he’ll sooner ditch you than the camo.

10. Thou shalt call it a snow machine.

That sled he carefully maintains year-round and spends all summer dreaming of riding? You know, the one he’s ready to bust out at the first dusting of flakes, and why he prays for snow to last from October through May so he can ride all winter long? It’s a snowmachine. End of story.


More like this: 10 things rural Alaskans have to explain to out-of-towners

The post 10 commandments of dating a guy from Alaska appeared first on Matador Network.

Photo guide to Nevada's wildlife

What other state is as wild, rugged, and untamed as Nevada? Adaptation is the name of the game here — just as the cowboys and pioneers of the Wild West forged new ways of living, just as greenery found a way to thrive in these deserts…so too has the wildlife. Venomous lizards. Lightning-fast antelopes. Wild horses. Adorable pikas and “miniature kangaroos.” When you’re here, you’re in their territory. Which one is your spirit animal?




1

Wild Horse

Approximately half of the wild horses and burros roaming the western US are in Nevada—about 35,000 of them, in fact. To see them in their natural habitat, head to the New Pass/Ravenswood Herd Management Area near Austin or up near Reno-Tahoe in Virginia City.
Photo: BLM Nevada

2

Mountain bluebird

This one-ounce heavyweight is Nevada's state bird, and it can be found all over, depending on the season. The warmer it is, the higher they go—up to 12,000 feet, as their name implies. Keep a close eye on them, as they can grab bugs and forage while hovering in midair.
Photo: USFWS Mountain-Prairie

3

Pronghorn antelope

This is the second-fastest land animal on Earth (second only to the cheetah) and the fastest on the continent. Grab your radar gun, head to the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge (the area that actually saved the species from extinction), and you can clock 'em at 55mph.
Photo: USFWS Mountain-Prairie

See more: 10 bizarrely beautiful places in Nevada you have to check out




4

Devils Hole Desert Pupfish

You're looking at what's described as the world's rarest fish. With only 200 individuals (and counting) in existence, these creatures are native to just one place: Devils Hole, a geothermal pool in the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. You'll find this watery oasis (the remnant of a prehistoric ocean) just east of Death Valley National Park—it'll seem like a mirage, but it definitely isn't.
Photo: Pacific Southwest Region USFWS

5

Rocky Mountain goat

Found only in the Ruby Mountains and East Humboldt Range (in Nevada, that is), these guys are the ultimate mountain climbers. 1,500 feet in 20 minutes? No sweat.
Photo: Skeeze

6

Ord's kangaroo rat

The name isn't just for fun—these cute little creatures can actually hop. Rocky, desert soil is their habitat of choice, and if you hear a high-pitched "peeeeee" coming from near your feet on the trail, you've got (adorable) company.
Photo: Marshal Hedin

7

Banded Gila monster

Found around the southern tip of Nevada, the gila monster might be one of the most fascinating creatures on the planet. They're one of the only venomous lizards ever to exist on record, but their bite likely won't kill you—as long as you're a healthy adult, that is. They're as slow as molasses in January, they spend the majority of their lives in the dark, and they can swim, despite being inhabitants of the desert.
Photo: 12019

8

Greater roadrunner

The cartoon roadrunners of your childhood weren't exactly true to form: These little firecrackers come in at around 10-12 inches tall and don't create hijinx with coyotes. Hit the visitor center at Death Valley National Park, the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, or Spring Mountain Ranch State Park to see these cuckoo birds running around in all their foot-tall glory.
Photo: Skeeze

9

Desert tortoise

Not every state has a state reptile and a mascot, but Nevada does, and you're looking at it. If this little guy can make it a few months, he has decent odds of making it another 70 years. Desert tortoises are a pretty reclusive bunch, but your turtle-spectating chances are best at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, especially spring through fall.
Photo: Skeeze

Get a local's perspective: A love letter to Nevada




10

Mountain lion

Cougar. Panther. Puma. By whatever name, the mountain lion can live in just about any of Nevada's environments. Luckily for us, they prefer remote areas, be it hiding in the pinyon pine and juniper to crawling the rocky desert valleys. If you're really hankering for a sighting, head toward the Alta Toquima Wilderness, south of Austin near Highway 50 (aka, "The Loneliest Road in America").
Photo: Ian Lindsay

11

Greater sage grouse

The greater sage grouse doesn't always look like this—what you're seeing is a male busy strutting about in his courting display. If you're visiting Nevada in spring, you might just be lucky enough to observe a "lek," or group of males gathered to compete for the interest of potential mates in this fashion. Austin and other central Nevada locations provide the best bet of a sighting.
Photo: Bureau of Land Management

12

Western diamondback rattlesnake

Found in the Lake Mohave, Searchlight, and Laughlin areas of southern Nevada, the western diamondback is venomous. They're three to six feet long, and if you see one, don't get close. Use your zoom lens and consider yourself lucky to spot one in the first place.
Photo: Gregory "Slobirdr" Smith

13

Bobcat

Similar to mountain lions, bobcats prefer remote areas, especially those that provide vegetation and rocks for cover and plenty of food (Carson Valley is a good spot). Fun fact? They walk on their toes (a trait known as "digitigrade").
Photo: Laurent Bartkowski

14

the Golden eagle

When you see a creature seven feet across soaring through the air, what you're looking at is likely a golden eagle migrating through Nevada on its way to Canada. They may be seen in mountainous areas across the state, but enthusiasts should definitely check out one of the Eagles & Ag events in Carson Valley, where these massive birds—and other raptors—can be viewed from one of the area's wide-open ranches (talks and tours from ranchers and other bird lovers included).
Photo: Gabriel Bendler

15

American Pika

Pikas are extremely sensitive to heat, and so their behavior is closely studied as a bellwhether of climate change. These little guys absolutely need cooler weather to survive. You'll probably only find them at higher elevations in northern Nevada (the Ruby Mountains are a good bet).
Photo: Lawepw

16

Coyote

If there's food, coyotes can live there (and they'll eat anything, including plants and insects). As such, they can be found all across the state, but they prefer brush-covered rolling hills and flats. Washoe Lake State Park is one of their preferred habitats, being just remote enough for their solitary tendencies.
Photo: Free-Photos

17

Burrowing owl

"Resting owl face" is real, and it's somehow more intense when the subject doesn't have (visible) ears. Burrowing owls are—unlike the majority of their relatives—active during the day (you'll spot them in high numbers around Genoa). To add another surprise to the mix, they're known to eat other birds.
Photo: Travel way of life

18

Desert bighorn sheep

Yes, these creatures are 100% herbivores...but those horns aren't to be messed with. Look for them at Valley of Fire State Park or Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area—bonus points if you can catch them when they're a bit more adorable...newborns, in springtime, look just like lambs.
Photo: Cary Bass-Deschenes

19

Leopard lizard

If you're exploring the Mojave and you see a lizard running on its hind legs, you're not hallucinating. That's the leopard lizard, and they're fast. They leap, they pounce, and they can bite—so it's best not to get friendly. Leave the scene how it should be: totally and completely wild.
Photo: Marshal Hedin

The post Photo guide to Nevada’s incredible wildlife appeared first on Matador Network.

Regional airlines need pilots

Times aren’t easy for small regional airlines. At least, not when it comes to stocking their staff rosters with pilots. Great Lakes Airlines, which operated small craft flying into miniscule markets in the Midwest and Mountain West, stopped flying on March 26. Why? They can’t seem to keep pilots in their planes. Great Lakes is hardly alone. Small carriers around the country have expressed fear that they won’t be able to find enough pilots to operate their business.

Skift reported that regional airlines doing business as the express version of larger airlines, i.e. United Express or Delta Connection, have an easier time keeping pilots on staff because working these routes can serve as an “in” with the bigger airline and may lead to a job opportunity down the line. But for those operating solely as independent carriers, such as Great Lakes, attracting pilots is tough. The situation looks increasingly dire as air traffic becomes increasingly affordable.

But what if we flipped the coin here and looked at this from a positive perspective, for aspiring wing-bearers at least. Specifically, let’s take the situation of Reader A, a wanderlust-filled social media scroller who is unhappy in his current gig. He longs for adventure, for unseen horizons and life lived out of a suitcase. He much prefers continental breakfasts to the breakfast burrito offerings at the coffee stand in the lobby of his office building. In fact, Reader A so badly wants to hit the road that he’s willing to invest time and money to make it happen. It would be nice, he thinks, if that effort were rewarded with, say, a new job.

Well, Reader A, you may be in luck. If you really are as willing and able to invest in a career change as you claim, perhaps you should consider becoming a pilot.

It’s not an easy gig that you can just fly into, however. Becoming a commercial airline pilot requires an Airline Transport Pilot License, a process that takes at least two years and a lot of hard work. But it is doable, and the process might be just the kick in the pants you need to really spread your wings career-wise. Here’s what you need to do to become a commercial airline pilot:

Do your research

Begin by browsing around the web and reading reliable sources of knowledge. Pilot Career News is a great place to start. Their site outlines what it takes to become a pilot, complemented by a wealth of career-based information to keep you on track. You’ll need medical training and, of course, flight training.

Sign up for flight school

This is where things begin to get exciting. ATP Flight School offers a program that promises you’ll be ready in two years, give or take a few months. That’s starting from right where Reader A is now — sitting in a cubicle in a completely unrelated field. The program even guarantees graduates get an instructor job paying $42,000 per year.

Work really, really hard

The majority of airline pilots must have at least 1,500 hours of flight time before they are eligible to receive the ATP License. This is in addition to classroom time and is the reason why becoming a certified commercial airline pilot takes as long as it does. After all, people’s lives are in their hands. This is one field where it certainly seems beneficial to be over-prepared. The ultimate goal is to obtain either an ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot Licence) or an MPL (Multi-crew Pilot Licence).

Find a job

Pilot Career News noted that many of the high-level pilot positions opening in the coming years are likely to be based in Asia and the Gulf region. It’s important to note, however, that these positions will primarily be filled by captains with years, if not decades, of experience under their belt. As larger airlines continue to hire top pilots from regional airlines, the regional airlines will continue to hire those with less experience, including (hopefully) Reader A, following completion of training and eventual certification. Pilot Career Center is a good site to monitor, along with the Careers section of regional airline carriers.

It’s not an easy path, but the reward is a career that’s about as far above the cubicle as one can get. Can you smell the recycled air and hotel coffee yet?


More like this: Bush pilots of Alaska

The post Want to get paid to travel? Your regional airline needs pilots appeared first on Matador Network.

Luxury hotel at Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Iceland’s tourism industry has surged in recent years. Visitors flock in increasing numbers to the island’s capital city of Reykjavik and now outnumber the locals by margins of up to 7 to 1 in some cases. The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa remains the country’s biggest attraction, now drawing over one million visitors per year — more than 2,500 per day.

An impressive feat, but those who’ve visited the world famous hot springs in recent years often found themselves in quite a conundrum. Stuck in a long line just to get through the ticketing queue, their visions of securing a private and peaceful spot to relax in the water were smashed before they even got into the locker room.

Visitor caps have been debated. Well-researched tourists have begun showing up hours before the facility opens in hopes of avoiding the lines, which depending on the time of year, often meant sitting in an idle car in the dark due to contracted daylight hours. But finally, the resort is optimistic of a solution — at least for those willing to pay for it.

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland provides a sanctuary away from the crowds. The upscale hotel combines the natural beauty of the pools and the lava rock that surrounds them with an experience built to revitalize and rejuvenate. On-site amenities include back-door access to the waters, freshly made Icelandic cuisine, and of course, yoga classes. The steam room and cold well onsite mean that guests can partake in the Nordic spa ritual of hot and cold immersion, and afterward can wind down over a detox drink infused with local Icelandic elixirs.

Instead of showering in the common locker room, hotel guests can partake in what’s known as the Blue Lagoon Ritual — a process that involves immersing oneself in silica, algae, and minerals. All this feel-goodness promises ultimate relaxation before you take in the Northern Lights, which can be done via a private tour from the hotel.

Not too shabby — but you’d better be ready to shell out if this experience is calling your name. Rooms start around a cool $1,800 per night, and there’s a two-night minimum.


More like this: How to visit Iceland's Blue Lagoon

The post Iceland’s biggest tourist attraction is getting a luxury hotel where you can escape crowds appeared first on Matador Network.

Weirdest pizza toppings

We here at Matador are of the opinion that there is no one perfect way to do pizza — the world is a vast and wonderful place, and it would become much duller if we limited our acceptable pizza styles and toppings to what comes on a simple New York dollar slice (even if it is, in one native New Yorker’s opinion, the actual perfect way to do pizza). But that doesn’t mean there aren’t places that are pushing the boundaries of what we can imagine going on a pizza.

1. Brazil — Green Peas on Pizza

A post shared by Tanya Kemp (@tanya_hermione_kemp) on Jan 21, 2018 at 2:05pm PST

Brazil, like most countries, has adapted pizza to its local flavors. But one of the more surprising ingredients they put on a pizza is green peas. When a man tried something similar in the United States, he was publicly shamed by the internet.

2. Missouri — Cicadas

A post shared by mbbunny (@mbbunny) on Jun 1, 2013 at 7:57pm PDT

Cicadas are large, terrifying insects that emerge from the ground every 17 years or so and descend on East Coast and Midwestern states by the billions. So when they end up on pizza, the results are bound to be divisive.

3. Russia — Four Fish

A post shared by Luft Pub (@luftpub) on Jan 31, 2018 at 7:29am PST

A Mockba (Moscow) pizza is a common order in Russia: it’s a pizza topped with four fish. The four fish are usually mackerel, salmon, sardines, and tuna.

4. Germany — Canned Tuna

A post shared by A l o n a (@alohalove__) on Mar 27, 2018 at 11:42am PDT

If a topping gets popular enough in a country, it inevitably ends up on the menus of the local Pizza Huts. Pizza Huts in Germany serve thunfisch pizza, which uses canned tuna.

5. Japan — Mayonnaise

A post shared by @papidomiredo on Dec 6, 2014 at 3:42am PST

Mayo jaga is a popular enough pizza in Japan that it’s served at Domino’s — it includes mayo, potato, pancetta, onion, paprika, and corn.

6. Scotland — Haggis

A post shared by Jennifer Ellen McKenzie (@jenemck) on May 20, 2013 at 9:37am PDT

Pizza and spiced meat go together like peanut butter and chocolate, so it was only a matter of time before someone put Scotland’s famous dish made of offal, oatmeal, and suet onto a pizza. You can actually buy frozen pizza with haggis on it in Scotland, because it’s a beautiful world.

7. Sweden — Pizza Africana

A post shared by Martin (@partyxmarty) on Mar 28, 2018 at 11:30am PDT

Americans love to hate pineapple pizza, but the Swedes have taken it a step further — a popular pizza there is the Pizza Africana, also known as the Banana Curry pizza. It has bananas, curry, pineapple, and sometimes peanuts and chicken.

8. New York — Caviar and 24-karat Gold

A post shared by Stock News USA (@stocknewsusa) on Jan 23, 2017 at 1:24am PST

New York has its fair share of insane pizzas, but the one that is the most ridiculous (and most indicative, perhaps, of our civilization being on the brink of collapse) is Industry Kitchen’s 24k pizza. The pizza has to be ordered 48 hours in advance. The squid-ink dough is topped with Stilton cheese, foie gras, platinum Ossetra caviar, truffle, and 24-karat gold leaves. Industry Kitchen is, of course, right by Wall Street. They also sell a Unicorn Pizza, topped with cotton candy, sprinkles, and frosting, for those with a sweet tooth — pictured above.

9. England — Cadbury Eggs

A post shared by Crazy Pedro (@crazypedros) on Mar 1, 2016 at 10:41am PST

For Easter in 2016, Crazy Pedro’s in Manchester made a specialty pizza called “I Am The ResurEGGtion.” It was covered in chocolate sauce and topped with brownies, marshmallows, meringue, and a Cadbury Creme Egg.

10. Philippines — Fried Chicken Crust

A post shared by KOHARO (@koharotv) on Mar 26, 2018 at 4:06am PDT

KFC likes to put fried chicken where fried chicken doesn’t belong (see the “Double Down”), but apparently KFC Philippines is even more extreme than it is in the United States — there, they’ve created a “Chizza,” which is a pizza that replaces the crust, naturally, with fried chicken.

11. Japan — Sushi

A post shared by Sushi

Dating an Australian guy

Congratulations! You’ve done the impossible — you’re now dating an Aussie guy. The odds were slim: Australia is a country with little dating culture and one of the worst work-life balances in the world. But somehow you wormed your way into his tender, ochre heart, where you’ve nestled yourself alongside his favorite brand of craft beer and a Steve Waugh-signed Gunn and Moore cricket bat. And it was well worth it. Aussie guys are a diverse bunch but generally united in their humility and unfussy, everyday courage.

Here are 11 commandments for dating a guy from Australia.

1. Thou shalt recognize the one religion — sport.

He loves it. He spends a third of his time watching it. He bets on it. He bonds over it. He opines on it. Sometimes he might even play it.

Sport is truth and truth is sport. Prepare yourself for a life spent worshipping at its altar.

Friday night through Sunday is for going to sacred sporting sights like the G, the Gabba, Etihad, and Adelaide Oval. It’s for smearing zinc on noses and downing frothies while watching a concatenation of men fight for a ball. And it’s for applying all one’s intellect to important questions like, was Barassi or Matthews the better coach? Would Essendon circa 2000 beat the Hawthorn dream team of the late 80s? What’s going on with Mitchell Johnson’s hair and face?

If you want to occupy the deepest, most intimate recesses of his heart and mind, spend some time getting your head around our sporting codes.

2. Thou shalt respect his sporting calendar.

Each season brings with it unique sporting events. In the summer there is cricket and in winter, Australian Rules Football and rugby, all accompanied with meat pies and pot bashing. January is for tennis, March brings the Formula One, September a horse race “that stops a nation,” and December a yacht race.

Every other day of the year is for lounging on the couch watching cage fighting, baseball, American football, hockey, snooker, toad-racing, curling, or literally anything pay-per-view trawls up.

3. Thou shalt do his footy betting for him.

There is a myth that the partners of Australian men fare much better in “footy betting” competitions than the men, particularly if they know less about the game.

This is clearly base superstition akin to mirror-breaking, but just indulge him. His love for footy is not always guided by reason.

4. Thou shalt enjoy a different kind of romance.

While Aussie blokes do value intimacy and the quiet pleasure of being in a relationship, they’re not really into mood lighting. Puffed-up seduction is about as appealing to them as one of those exaggerated football dives — there’s just something so false and corny about it.

So don’t expect the Taj Mahal or rose-scented sonnets from your Aussie boyfriend. But do take note when he surprises you with “something he bought on sale and thought you might like” or casually suggests you go out for dinner. In truth, he has been carefully planning these gestures for weeks.

5. Thou shalt quietly admire his casual bravery and grit, but ensure he looks after himself.

Australian men won’t shriek in the face of danger. They know how to handle an ocean rip (as in life, go with the flow). They view introspection as neuroticism. They don’t believe in complaining, even in the direst of situations.

Take, for example, rugby legend Trevor Gillmeister. During the 1995 Origin series, Gillmeister came down with a nasty case of blood-poisoning right before the deciding match. In hospital being pumped with antibiotics, he was told by his doctor, if you play, you may die. That didn’t stop “the Axe” from removing his intravenous drip, rising from his hospital bed, and making his way down to the rugby field, where he captained his team to victory.

So admire his grit but do encourage him to take care of himself.

6. Thou shalt open his heart for him.

Australian men can be a laconic bunch. Famously stoic, they may adopt silence in the face of personal suffering so as not to bother those around them. But bottling things up can increase the risk of depression. The rate of male suicide in Australia is high — three times greater than that for females — and it’s reported many put it down to their inability to ask for help. Grab him a soy Flat White, sit him down on the couch, and check in.

7. Thou shalt respect the sanctity of mateship.

He probably has a pack of ‘mates’ he goes to the footy with. They probably brew beer together, aspire to brew whiskey, and regularly brainstorm business plans for said activities. They may obsessively quote The Mighty Boosh (yes, still) and BoJack Horseman. They certainly share lame inside-jokes about “Damo shitting his pants at Spice Market” and Johno “having a tiny face.”

But they are his people, his brothers, his kin, and you must accept them into your life.

8. Thou shalt have a sly sense of humor.

Mere gags just won’t cut it. The Australian male has a fairly evolved sense of humor, as dry as a Sauv Blanc on a summer’s afternoon in Oodnadatta. Many put this down to the epic cosmic joke of living on a continent so antithetical to human life. For many men, humor is their chief joy and the lubricant for all social interactions. So start working your wit now and don’t be alarmed if he seems to make incongruous comments with a poker-face (this is potentially sarcasm).

9. Thou shalt feel free to be yourself with him.

The Aussie male is not faint-hearted and he knows little of tradition or formality. Feel free to swear and talk about your bodily functions in front of him with flair and gusto. Strut proudly in tracksuit pants and torn tees. Don’t worry if you forget to greet him with a salutary kiss and a “how was your day, dear?” Stress less about meeting his family — they’re all wearing board shorts anyway.

10. Thou shalt speak the language of football.

Learn the language and win his heart. But be warned — you’ll need time, exposure, a dictionary, a tutor, maybe even a degree.

Some rules for the use of the word “football”:

There are three different sports that can be called football: rugby union, rugby league, and Australian Rules football.
Call Australian Rules Football “Football” or “footy” if you are in any state but NSW and QLD.
If you’re in NSW or QLD you may refer to AFL as Aussie Rules, Gay FL, or aerial ping pong.
Never call Rugby League “Rugby” unless you’re in Victoria.
If you’re outside of Victoria, don’t even think about it. Refer to it as “League” or “Football”.
Rugby Union, however, may be called “Rugby” in most situations.
The only thing that can’t be called football is football (it’s soccer.)

11. Thou shalt add liberal salt to these commandments.

The Australian man is rapidly mutating and to generalize is not doing the population a service. He could be gender-fluid, skirt-wearing, sensual, child-caring, bejeweled, or Bengali-speaking. He may wear nail polish and prefer selling all his worldly possessions, moving to QLD, and “Stop[ing] Adani” than going to the pub with his mates or committing to a monogamous relationship with you.

Best to “take it easy” and go with the flow.


More like this: 8 things I learned from dating an Australian

The post 11 commandments for dating an Australian guy appeared first on Matador Network.

Castle hotel you can stay the night

If only the kings, counts, and lords of the 13th century had Instagram in mind when they commissioned these castles — or maybe they did. Either way, you’re sure to get a few Insta-worthy shots at these romantic castle getaways. Check out these most beautiful castle hotels in the world. The kicker? You can actually afford to stay in (most) of them.

1. Xara Palace — Mdina, Malta

Photo: The Xara Palace Relais & Châteaux

Built in the 17th century as an aristocratic enclave, Xara Palace takes visitors to Malta’s exquisite coastline far away from the cruise liners and beach resorts. This palace appeals to both history buffs and vista-seekers alike: it served as a mess hall for Allied officers during World War II and provides stunning hilltop views of the surrounding countryside. Rooms start at $175/night.

2. Ashford Castle — County Mayo, Ireland

Photo: Ashford Castle

Perhaps the most iconic of Irish castles, the Ashford Castle is a luxurious getaway in western Ireland’s County Galway surrounded by 350 woodland acres of Irish countryside. The Ashford Castle proves wrong any inclinations that Irish fare can’t be done with the utmost of luxury — the dining is as much a part of the experience here as the views. This one’s not cheap — rooms run anywhere from $350 well into the thousands. But if you have the time and budget to spare, the experience also allows you to round out your trip at the School of Falconry (not included in the room rate).

3. Ruthin Castle — Ruthin, North Wales

Photo: Ruthin Castle Hotel & Spa

Guests are greeted by pink lions at the Ruthin Castle, a 13th-Century masterpiece. This is a castle in the truest sense — boasting seven 100-ft high towers — and it has withstood a number of tumultuous periods in Welsh history, including the War of the Roses. Rooms start just under $200/night.

4. Kasteel Huis Berg — ‘S-Hareenberg, Netherlands

Photo: Kasteel Huis Bergh

Kasteel Huis Berg dates to the 12th century. The castle has suffered multiple fires and 80 years of war and has changed ownership hands a number of times. Each time, the castle has been rebuilt and upgraded. Today, it serves as an art gallery and museum in addition to hosting overnight guests. Rooms start at $266/night.

5. Swinton Park — Yorkshire, England

Photo: Swinton Estate

At Swinton Park castle, you can enjoy chef-prepared Moreish treats, then trek into the romantic pastures of Yorkshire. The castle was erected in 1695 and serves these days as a hotel, cooking school, spa, and gateway to the outdoors. Rooms start in the $200s.

6. Dalhousie Castle Hotel — Edinburgh, Scotland

Photo: Robert Parker Collection

Another 13th-century masterpiece, the Dalhousie Castle has seen its share of battles, glories, and empires — both the English and Scottish have captured and claimed control of the castle throughout history. With gorgeous banquet and event space and Edinburgh location, it may be worth pushing your boss to book the next company retreat at the Dalhousie. If not, come on your own. Rooms start in the low $200s.

7. Kasteel Wurfeld — Maaseik, Belgium

Photo: Kasteel Wurfeld

Here, guests can choose to stay in the older part of the castle or in one of the newer additions. Even the newer sections offer a classic feel, and the setting in rural northern Belgium promises antiquity either way. Plus, Kasteel Wurfeld is on the more affordable side historical castle stays — rooms start at about $111/night.

8. Castello di Pavone — Torino, Italy

Photo: Castello di Pavone

Each room in this specially appointed Italian castle is uniquely decorated and the dining and common areas offer a glimpse back in time, meaning you may prefer to spend your stay in Torino inside the castle instead of taking in the usual tourist sights. You can still snap that shot for Instagram, however — each room offers views of the medieval architecture and the quaint town of Pavone Canavese. Rooms start at about $150/night.

9. Hotel Schloss Thannegg — Grobming, Austria

Photo: Schloss Thannegg – Moosheim

At nearly 1,000 years old, the 10-room Hotel Schloss Thannegg ensures guests take in a bit of Austrian history. It can also serve as a unique chalet for your next European ski trip. But the amenities are anything but ancient. The hotel is known for its dining and comfortable rooms. Booking is per person, starting at about $130/night.

10. Chateau Frontenac — Quebec City, Quebec, Canada

Photo: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

If ever a castle has dominated the skyline of a major city, it’s Quebec City’s Chateau Frontenac. This iconic hotel is the center of attention in Quebec’s capital city, walking distance from the city’s iconic funicular and the commercial outlets of the Quartier Petit Champlain. Rooms typically start at about $150/night.

11. Chateau de la Caze — Sainte-Enime, France

Photo: Muriel Simon

A sprawling courtyard and lush hillside surroundings mark this castle hotel in France. With a gorgeous pool, 14th-century architecture, and lush interior, guests can relax in modern or medieval surroundings — the choice is yours.


More like this: 10 epic high-alpine hotels you need to stay in before you die

The post 11 insanely beautiful castles you can actually stay the night in appeared first on Matador Network.