Matador Network's Blog, page 229
November 14, 2023
This Black Friday Deal Is the Best Chance To Take Your Dream Rocky Mountain Train Journey
Long-distance luxury train trips are the stuff travelers dream of, but the price tags associated with these experiences usually make this dream near impossible to achieve. Very few can afford to spend thousands, or even tens of thousands, of dollars on a trip on board the Orient Express, the Blue Train, or the Rocky Mountaineer. But this year, it’s all about to change: The luxury tourist train company Rocky Mountaineer is having its first-ever Black Friday sale and the savings are extremely appealing.
Photo: Rocky Mountaineer
Photo: Rocky MountaineerRocky Mountaineer is the most luxurious option for train travel in the US and Canada, delivering glass-dome cars, gourmet cuisine, excellent service, and more.
Despite the fact that Rocky Mountaineer’s trips are spread over multiple days, the company’s trains are not sleeper trains. The trains stop every night and guests are booked into luxury hotels until the morning when they re-embark.
Photo: Rocky Mountaineer
Photo: Rocky MountaineerRocky Mountaineer’s Black Friday sale is available until December 4, 2023, for Rocky Mountaineer’s routes in the American Southwest, Rockies to the Red Rocks, as well as for Rocky Mountaineer’s routes through beautiful British Columbia and Alberta in Canada, including First Passage to the West, Journey Through the Clouds, and more.
The offers are as follows:
Rockies to the Red Rocks: $750 off per person ($1500 per couple) when booking a SilverLeaf Plus package of six nights or more, or $500 off per person ($1000 per couple) when booking a SilverLeaf package of six nights or more.Canadian routes: $585 off per person ($1170 per couple) when booking a GoldLeaf package of six nights or more, or $390 off per person ($780 per couple) when booking a SilverLeaf package of six nights or more.To benefit from this offer , visit rockymountaineer.com/promotions. 
An Icelandic Volcano Is Once Again Threatening To Massively Disrupt European Air Travel
In 2010, the Eyjafjallajokull volcano erupted in Iceland, producing a huge plume of volcanic ash that drifted through the air toward the European continent. The eruption disrupted air travel for weeks, as ash can cause jet engine failure. Civil aviation authorities across Europe shut down air travel as a precautionary measure, meaning many travelers from Europe were left stranded or unable to reach their destinations. Now, another Icelandic volcano is threatening to upend air travel once again.
A volcano on the country’s southwestern peninsula, near the small coastal town of Grindavík, is showing signs of worrying seismic activity. Since this volcano bears similar features to the Eyjafjallajokull volcano, local officials have declared a state of emergency and ordered the evacuation of Grindavík.
The Eyjafjallajokull volcano is located at high elevation…and is essentially covered by an ice glacier,” according to AccuWeather’s Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter. “The volcano near Grindavik is not encapsulated in an ice cap, but if it erupts, it can still introduce plumes of volcanic ash into the atmosphere, which can travel on the upper-level winds.”
The volcano’s seismic activity, including earthquakes, has also caused Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon thermal spa to close for one week, from November 9 to November 16. Earthquakes indicate an increased danger of volcanic activity and possible eruption.
“The signs that can be seen now at Sundhnjúkagígar are similar to those seen on the eve of the first eruption at Fagradalsfjall in 2021 and are very similar to the seismic activity that was measured about a month before that eruption,” the Icelandic Met Office says. “The most likely scenario now, taking into account the activity that culminated in the onset of the March 19, 2021, is that it will take several days (rather than hours) for magma to reach the surface.”
Evacuation orders have not yet been issued for Reykjavik, as it’s believed to be far enough away for any potential eruption, though officials are still monitoring the seismic activity.
Your Guide To Lake Charles, Louisiana’s Underrated Playground
When you think of Louisiana, you may immediately envision scenes from Mardi Gras, delicious Cajun and Creole food, and, of course, its most populous city, New Orleans. By all accounts, many people associate Louisiana with New Orleans and only New Orleans. But there’s a city Lake Charles located all the way across the state from Louisiana’s cultural capital, not far from the Texas border, that’s a mixture of down-home warmth and flavor for days. Here’s everything you need to do and eat in Lake Charles, Louisiana’s underrated playground.
Things to do in Lake CharlesBook a lively and historical bike tourView this post on InstagramA post shared by Biking Through The Lake LLC (@bikingthroughthelakellc)
Lake Charles is named after an actual lake that’s one of the city’s most important natural landmarks. (Technically, the city brushes up against multiple water bodies, including Lake Charles, Prien Lake, and the Calcasieu River.) One of the best ways to see the city and admire its lakefront views is to tour it by bike. One popular option is the Biking Through the Lake bicycle tour. Not your average bike tour, Biking Through the Lake is a party on two wheels, with music playing as you cruise through the city and learn about its history.
Experience outdoors beyond the lake
Photo: Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock
To see more of the outdoors in Lake Charles beyond the lakefront, visit the Sam Houston Jones State Park. The park has camping, biking, hiking trails, fishing, glamping, wildlife viewing, and more for nature lovers. If water activities are of interest and you’d prefer personalized kayaking, fishing, or camping excursions at the park, visit Lake Area Adventures. In addition to organizing nature tours and gear rentals, the family-friendly complex also has an aquatics center, airpark, ropes course, climbing wall, game lounge, VR arena, and more indoor adventures.
Visit the city’s museums and galleriesBekyk hierdie plasing op Instagram'n Plasing gedeel deur Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center (@historiccityhall)
One important cultural landmark in Lake Charles is the Black Heritage Gallery. The Black Heritage Gallery belongs to a larger attraction called the Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center. Both spaces highlight the works of local and regional artists, including traveling exhibitions. A recent exhibition of Lake Charles native Nellie Lutcher included her performance gowns, records, vintage magazine covers, photographs, and other memorabilia.
More history awaits at the Imperial Calcasieu Museum, which showcases tales of 375-year-old Lake Charles from the time of its Indigenous inhabitants to the present day. With visual and cultural arts and traveling exhibits, the museum teaches visitors about the area’s diversity and heritage. Behind the museum, there’s a beautiful Sallier Oak tree that’s as old as the city, which doubles as the site for two fun events: Yoga Under the Oak and Art Under the Oak. Dubbed the “Tree of Resilience,” it’s said that if you hug the tree, you’ll feel its positive energy and powers.
Explore the downtown corePhoto: travelview/Shutterstock
Downtown Lake Charles is not to be overlooked, particularly if you like strolling around and shopping. Pop into the city’s many cute boutiques, check out the murals and street art as you walk, or stop at the Panorama Music Exchange for vintage vinyl records, cassettes, eight-track tapes, and memorabilia. It’s a step back in time and a treasure trove for collectors. After a trip down memory lane, head next door to the Panorama Music House, which not only serves food and specialty drinks but is also a venue for live music. On any visit, you may hear a band play the regional music, zydeco, which originated in southwest Louisiana.
Attend the Louisiana Food and Wine FestivalView this post on InstagramA post shared by Louisiana Food & Wine Festival (@louisianafwfestival)
This past September, Lake Charles hosted the first annual Louisiana Food and Wine Festival, bringing a mixture of small-town charm and big-chef flavor. The festival included everything from spirits and mixologist demonstrations to Master Classes with renowned chefs, including Louisiana hometown hero Chef Edgar “Dook” Chase IV. Dook wowed the crowd with the world-famous gumbo he serves at his Chapter IV restaurant in New Orleans and shared some gumbo cooking tips along the way. Elsewhere, Chef Tiffany Derry of Top Chef fame put a twist on fish and grits by serving arancini balls with a center made of grits, herbs, spices, and seafood. If you’re in town next year, don’t miss the festivities September 19-22.
Where to eat and drink in Lake CharlesThe Golden Doors Tea RoomPart activity, part culinary experience, The Golden Doors Tea Room is a can’t-miss event center with individual rooms decked out with European flair. A visit for afternoon tea includes an assortment of delicate sandwiches, scones, petit fours, macaroons, and other scrumptious desserts presented on three-tier dessert plates alongside the most beautiful place settings. With an assortment of teas to choose from — along with mimosas and other libations if you want them — you’ll enjoy both the elegant atmosphere and the friendly hosts.
The Golden Doors Tea Room: 2013 Oak Park Blvd, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Barstool SportsbookView this post on InstagramA post shared by L'Auberge Casino Resort L.C. (@laubergelc)
If you’re a fan of the kind of foods you typically eat on game days, enjoy a meal at Barstool Sportsbook located inside of L’Auberge Casino Resort. It’s a sports bar, but Chef Lyle Broussard offers regional food delights beyond the typical fare. Must-tries include the catfish sliders, which are light, flavorful, and crispy; the fried gator, which tastes pleasantly like chicken; and the bourbon peach cobbler, which is served in the perfect size mini jar.
Barstool Sportsbook: 777 Ave L’Auberge, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Vic & Anthony’s SteakhouseView this post on InstagramA post shared by Vic & Anthony's (@vicandanthonys)
For an elegant dining experience, look no further than Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse, located in the Golden Nugget hotel and casino. At first, walking into the Golden Nugget feels like being in Las Vegas, with its modern décor and electric vibe. Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse matches the ambiance, complemented by top-notch service with an excellent menu. I recommend sharing appetizers so the table can sample — star starters include the roasted bacon, shrimp and crab martini, and jumbo lump crab cake. For an entrée that’s not a juicy cut of beef, it’s hard to beat the fresh fish a la nage, or “in the swim,” which comes with a delicious jumbo crab cake and tender veggies swimming in a sherried lobster sauce.
Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse: 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Twanie’s Terrific TreatsFor your sweet tooth, a stop at Twanie’s Terrific Treats in downtown Lake Charles is a must. As soon as you enter the shop, your senses are smacked with the sweet aromas of a weekly rotating menu of cookies, puddings, and more. Try the ultra-rich chocolate chip cookies, baked to perfection and so moist.
Twanie’s Terrific Treats: 206 W 11th St, Lake Charles, LA 70601
More like thisCultureCraft Spirits and Creole Favorites Make Lake Charles, Louisiana, the South’s Summer HubThis Duffel Bag Is Perfect for Ski Trips, No Matter Your Level
Planning a ski trip is a fun experience – until you realize all the gear you’ll need to bring to make it a success. Upon this realization, packing can be a bit stressful. As an avid skier and frequent traveler, I want the packing process to be as stress-free as possible. Because of this, I rarely ever travel with a traditional suitcase. I am almost always sprinting from one place to the next with a backpack or duffel. So, when it came time to retire my old backpack after years of weekend warrior trips from Denver to Breckenridge and Keystone, I decided to upgrade to the redesigned Alpaca Duffel from Gregory.
We hope you love the Gregory Alpaca Duffel! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase.
From inside and out, the features of the Alpaca Duffel are everything you need for an easy-to-pack ski weekend. To start, the duffel’s U-zip opening from the top makes it easy to access all your gear with one zip. On either side of the duffel, the full-length daisy chains offer a myriad of lashing options for extra gear. If I am road-tripping to the slopes, I find this feature handy for attaching my helmet or other bulky items.
Perks of the Gregory Alpaca Duffel
Taking a ski trip? Check out Matador’s ski gear guides: How To Pack For Your Next Ski Trip, According To a Pro Skier The Ultimate Gear Guide for Your Winter Ski Trip Here’s All the Gear and Resources You Need To Plan a Splitboarding Trip
Photo: Jessica Hughes
New features inside make this duffel a ski traveler’s dream with an expandable zippered end pocket to keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean ones. I loved the exterior zippered side access so I could easily put my dirty clothes or shoes away without having to open the entire pack. Plus, two mesh interior lid zippered pockets to help keep my other essentials organized and close at hand was a favorite feature for me.
To prove its packability and functionality, the updated Alpaca Duffel also now comes with its own packing cube. As a frequent traveler, I am a big fan of packing cubes. So, it was nice to see this duffel come with one. I used it to pack my toiletries and smaller items I wanted to keep in one place. When empty, the duffel folds into the packing cube for effortless storage and with an exterior handle it’s easy to carry.
What I packed in my Gregory Alpaca Duffel
Photo: Jessica Hughes
The Alpaca Duffel comes in four different sizes — 45L, 60L, 90L, and 120L. I chose the 60L, which is just enough space to fit everything you need for a ski trip. I didn’t have to think too hard when packing this duffel. Inside the main compartment, I was able to pack my bulky ski pants and jacket, two sets of base layers, two pairs of jeans, two sweaters, a pair of ankle-height boots, a couple of t-shirts, lounge pants, a beanie, a balaclava, and goggles. I utilized the packing cube for my toiletries, bathing suit (for snowy nights in the hot tub), underwear, three pairs of ski socks, ski gloves, and my book.
Another big win for the Alpaca Duffel is that I never had an issue zipping it up with its oversized T-grip zippers. So many times, I have had to crunch, squish, and cringe as I tried to close other bags, but not this duffel. It was smooth zipping all the way. Because of the T-grip, I could get good leverage when closing even when the duffel is stuffed.
The Gregory Alpaca Duffel vs. other duffel bags
Photo: Jessica Hughes
While you can certainly find other duffels with similar features, one thing that stood out to me was the brand’s commitment to sustainability with the making of these duffels. Using a life cycle analysis tool, Gregory was able to reduce the carbon footprint of each new duffel by 56% (Alpaca 60). The best part, it didn’t seem to compromise on fit or function.
Matador has tested other duffel bags including weekenders from Patagonia and The North Face. The Gregory Alpaca Duffel is better than these two for ski trips, due to the strapping, U-zip opening, and T-grip zippers. It’s equally durable and weatherproof.
Optimal durability: Opening the bag, I instantly felt the tough construction with the water-resistant TPU coating and 40% recycled 900D polyester. I feel confident flinging this bag in my trunk with skis, boots, and other gear resting on top. Plus, with its abrasion-resistant bottom with added foam, I am confident setting this bag down anywhere even on snow and ice. I also know I won’t have to worry about getting caught in a snowstorm or something spilling on it with its water-resistant exterior.
Ease of transport: When you have other big gear to worry about, such as skis and boots, easy transport of everything else is essential. That’s what I love about this duffel, you can haul it around however you choose. Use it as a backpack with its removable shoulder straps, carry it briefcase-style, or sling it over your shoulders with the two reinforced haul handles. I also loved the dual handles at either end, making it easy to quickly lift and drag the duffel anywhere you need to go.
Downsides or negatives: While I found no significant weaknesses with the Alpaca Duffel, the 60L size when fully packed is too big as a carry-on. I like this bag for its size, big enough to fit what I need but small enough that I can manage it on my own. But because of its durability and lifetime guarantee, I don’t worry about checking it for a flight and sending it through baggage claim.
Gregory Alpaca Duffel specs
Photo: Jessica Hughes
Capacity: Available in 45, 60, 90, and 120-liter sizes
Materials:
Main body: 900-denier diamond rip-stop polyester with TPU coatingBottom panel: 630-denier nylonFeatures:
T-grip zipper for easy zipping, even when stuffedU-zip opening to reach everything on the insideRemovable backpack strapsPadded grab handlesInternal mesh pocketCompression strapsDaisy chains for attaching additional gearWeather-resistant materialsDWR (durable water repellent) finishTaped seamsWeight:
45L: 3.57 lbs60L: 3.95 lbs90L: 4.35 lbs120L: 4.78 lbsDimensions:
45L: 13.8″ x 29″ x 14.6″60L: 15.4″ x 30.3″ x 16.2″90L: 17″ x 32″ x 17.7″120L: 18.5″ x 33.5″ x 19.3″Color Options: Varies by size
Warranty: Lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects
You Can Take a Steam Train Ride Through Colorado’s Canyons and Mountain Peaks
If you don’t have the time or can’t afford to take a long-distance train trip, like riding The Canadian from Toronto to Vancouver, or The Ghan from one end of Australia to the other, there are many scenic train rides in the US that will satisfy your desire for this old-fashioned form of travel and will deliver plenty of beautiful scenery. Colorado is an especially good spot for scenic train rides, with multiple railroad companies offering great day trips. The Georgetown Loop Railroad is one such company. Just 50 minutes from Denver, it is one of the best train rides in Colorado.
Are there many train rides in Colorado?What is the route of the Georgetown Loop Railroad?Time of operation and photos of the Georgetown Loop RailroadHow long does it take to ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad?How much does it cost to ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad?How can I purchase tickets for the Georgetown Loop Railroad?What kind of train is the Georgetown Loop Railroad?How old is the Georgetown Loop?Is there a Christmas train in Colorado?Georgetown, Colorado, HotelsAre there many train rides in Colorado?Besides the national Amtrak train routes that go through the Centennial State (the California Zephyr and the Southwest Chief), there are railroad companies that offer scenic train rides in Colorado, including:
Rocky Mountaineer: Rockies to the Red RocksThe Royal Gorge TrainThe Cumbres and Toltec Scenic RailroadThe Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge RailroadThe Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog RailwayThe Georgetown Loop RailroadWhat is the route of the Georgetown Loop Railroad?The railroad has two depot stations: one in Georgetown called the Devil’s Gate, and one in Silver Plume called the Silver Plume Depot. While the Devil’s Gate is open year-round, the Silver Plume Depot is only in service from May to mid-October. The two stations are located at either end of the route.
The trains run between the Devil’s Gate Station in Georgetown and the Silver Plume Depot in Silver Plume. In between the two stations, the trains weave through Colorado’s canyons and mountain peaks, crosses Clear Creek several times, and stops near the Lebanon Silver Mine, about halfway on the route. The railroad offers tours of the mine from April to mid-September.
Time of operation and photos of the Georgetown Loop Railroad
Photo: Larry George II/ShutterstockPhoto: Page Light Studios/Shutterstock
Photo: Bob Pool/ShutterstockThe Georgetown Loop Railroad operates daily from June to September. It also operates on specific dates in May, October, November, December, and January. No matter the time of year, the ride is extremely scenic, but in fall it’s especially beautiful.
How long does it take to ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad?The length of the ride depends on the time of year. From mid-October to January, the trip is 55-minute-long, whereas the rest of the year it takes one hour and 15 minutes. If you travel on the Georgetown Loop Railroad from April to mid-September, you can book a tour of Lebanon Mine, which lasts one hour and 15 minutes, making for a 2.5-hour trip altogether.
How much does it cost to ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad?The price of riding the Georgetown Loop Railroad varies according to the time of the year, the experience you choose, and the class of service you opt for.
Besides the basic rides and the rides including the tours of the mine, there are various themed experiences offered throughout the year, including:
The Bunny Train for EasterThe Mothers’ Day Weekend Train in MayOld West Days in May, June, and AugustThe Fathers’ Day Weekend Train in JuneThe Sasquatch Adventure Train in JulyThe Fall Colors Train in late SeptemberPumpkinfest Train in OctoberAutumnfest Train in OctoberThe Trick or Treat Train for HalloweenSanta’s Rocky Mountain Adventure in November and DecemberSanta’s lighted Forest in November and DecemberVictorian Holiday Celebrations in December and JanuaryThe Georgetown Loop Railroad also offers several classes of service:
Coach Class: The cheapest. Includes bench seating in open-air cars that are closed and heated when the weather gets cold.Parlor Class: Only available in winter. Table and chair seating. Guests are given snacks and a non-alcoholic beverage. Adult beverages are available for purchase.Executive Class: Only available in winter. Upholstered booth-style seating. Guests are given snacks and a non-alcoholic beverage. Adult beverages are available for purchase. Large windows for great views.Presidential Class: The most expensive. Only available in winter. Upholstered booth-style seating in a beautiful wood-panelled car. Guests are given snacks and a non-alcoholic beverage. Adult beverages are available for purchase.How can I purchase tickets for the Georgetown Loop Railroad?You can purchase tickets for the Georgetown Loop Railroad online on their official website. That said, once purchased, you will not be receiving your tickets by email or by mail. You must retrieve your ticket from the depot at least 20 minutes before departure.
What kind of train is the Georgetown Loop Railroad?
Photo: MargJohnsonVA/Shutterstock
The Georgetown Loop Railroad owns two steam locomotives and four diesel-electric locomotive and offers scenic rail tours. According to the website, “steam locomotives generally run from Memorial Weekend in May through early October. Diesel electric locomotives operate the remainder of the schedule.” The railroad company also owns a variety of passenger cars, some basic open-air cars and some luxury cars only in use in winter.
How old is the Georgetown Loop?The Georgetown Loop is a train route that exists since 1884. It will turn 140 years old in 2024.
Is there a Christmas train in Colorado?There are multiple railroad companies that offer Christmas-themed and holiday-themed train rides in Colorado, including:
The Royal Gorge Train with its Santa Express Train, Holiday Train, and New Year’s Eve Dinner train.The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad with its Holiday Express TrainThe Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad with its Polar Express train rideThe Georgetown Loop Railroad with its Santa’s Rocky Mountain Adventure experience, Santa’s Lighted Forest experience, and Victorian Holiday CelebrationGeorgetown, Colorado, HotelsWe hope you love the hotels we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
These hotels in the pretty little town of Georgetown, Colorado, will allow you to stay near the Devil’s Gate Station and easily catch the train.
More like thisTrain Travel10 Luxury Train Rides in the US That Are Worth Splurging OnThe Top Airbnbs Near Paris’ Olympic Stadiums and Event Centers
The countdown has begun: France will welcome the 2024 Summer Olympic Games from July 26 until August 11 with the Paralympic Games following from August 28 to September 8. Paris and the Île-de-France region form the cradle of the action where the spectacle will kick off at 8:24 p.m. sharp (or, 20:24 – touché).
The XXXIII Olympiad is slated to be the boldest and most revolutionary yet. Plans are afoot to take the opening ceremony beyond the arena where giant screens and free viewing platforms will widen its reach. The Games will infiltrate the icons of Paris in addition to the stadia circling the capital.
In terms of where to stay for the Paris Olympics, you can pick accommodation in the central arrondissements or close to the suburban stadiums in Seine-Saint-Denis and Boulogne-Billancourt. Tickets, hotel rooms, and vacation rentals are going like hot mille feuilles so you’ll want to act fast. On your marks, get set, go book these Airbnbs near the Olympic stadiums and event centers in Paris.
We hope you love these Airbnb rentals near the Paris Olympics!! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Garden Airbnb next to Paris Olympic Village
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosTwo minutes from the Garibaldi metro station and the legendary Saint-Ouen flea market, this modern apartment is convenient for catching the athletic and aquatic Games. It’s perfectly set up for a longer stay with laundry facilities, ample storage, and even a workspace. The kitchen is fully stocked with appliances and cookware and the private patio is a treat on a warm summer night after the whistle blows.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $213 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosA stone’s throw from the Louvre and Champs-Élysées, this Paris Airbnb also puts you around the corner from Place de la Concorde where Olympic breaking and skateboarding will take place. Stone and charcoal accents are contrasted with the sun-drenched courtyard where you can shrug off the adrenaline over macarons and cognac. One bedroom has direct access to the patio and the other peers over the rooftops.
Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $617 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis swanky triplex loft is a strollable distance from Stade Roland Garros, Stade Jean Bouin, and Parc des Princes while the Eiffel Tower is 30 minutes by metro. As one of the most child-friendly Airbnbs for the Paris Olympics, two of the bedrooms are purpose-designed for younger kids. The fitted kitchen has you covered for morning café au lait through to boeuf bourguignon.
Five guests, four bedrooms
Price: $264 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosBursting at the seams with character, this apartment is awash with art, trinkets, and books. There is one bedroom plus a pull-out sofa in the lounge and a fantastic kitchen for when inspiration strikes. The location is ideal for watching the Olympic and Paralympic Games at Paris Expo but the city center is just five minutes by metro. Avoid overpacking if you want to trawl the local flea markets.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $160 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbSee more photosIt’s the icon of Paris but the Eiffel Tower will also play a role in the XXXIII Olympiad. The apartment’s balcony has an interrupted view of the Iron Lady and is close enough to hear the crowds cheering on the volleyball and blind football. Accented with gold leaf and fleur-de-lis and with a lavish Louis XIV bedroom it’s quite literally fit for royalty. There’s no TV so you’ll need to buy tickets pronto.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $1,675 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosExtravagant yet cozy, it doesn’t get much better than this family-friendly Airbnb close to all the big players in the Paris Olympics. Pont Alexandre III and Les Invalides are within walking distance while other principal venues are half an hour or less by metro. As the actual home of the host, the apartment is equipped for cooking and beautifully decorated with antiques. Step out onto the wraparound balconies and you’ll hear the roar of the onlookers.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $1,071 per night
Photo: Airbnb
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Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis sleek Parisian loft in a classic Haussmanian building places you a 10-minute walk from the basketball, artistic gymnastics, and trampoline events. The metro is even closer and Gare de Lyon is just up the road. Exposed brickwork and a monochrome design create a chic vibe while the kitchen island allows for sociable mornings tearing into croissants from the local bakery.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $201 per night
Photo: Airbnb
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Photo: AirbnbSee more photosOnly a five-minute walk from the nautical stadium and a short drive from Disneyland Paris, this new rental from an experienced host is ideal for a family vacation. One of the four bedrooms is set up specifically for younger kids. The sun trap of a backyard has a seasonal pool where you can enjoy a dip after cheering on the Olympic rowers. It’s 25 minutes by train to Gare de l’Est and you’ll have free parking.
Nine guests, four bedrooms
Price: $127 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosThis cool duplex bridges the gap between bohemian Montmartre and the multicultural La Chapelle quarter where badminton, gymnastics, and para powerlifting will play out. The bedroom grants a view of Sacré Coeur and there’s a wee table set up for clinking a sunset glass of vin It’s on the penthouse floor and there’s no lift so you’ll return home with a pair of champion thighs as a memento.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $184 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosLive like an Olympian at this hotel-standard vacation rental in between the Latin Quarter and Les Invalides. Watching sport is almost as taxing as participating which is why this Luxe Airbnb in Paris has a private spa and steam room for soothing sore muscles. A dedicated concierge is on hand to call up private chefs, massage therapists, and trusted childminders when you’re not ringside.
Seven guests, three bedrooms
Price: $5,809 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: AirbnbSee more photosLive out the fantasy of sleeping in the loft of a Parisian artist at the same time as seeing history being made at the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This creative space for families or couples is teeming with greenery while panoramic windows and a terrace steal a peek at the hill of Montmartre. The location has you covered for games in the city center, the Olympic Village, and La Chapelle Arena.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $308 per night
The XXXIII Olympic and Paralympic Games will be held in Paris and the wider Île-de-France as well as cities nationwide. On the northern periphery of Paris, Seine-Saint-Denis is the home of the Olympic Village. Athletics and rugby will be held in Stade de France while a brand-new aquatic center is underway.
Emblematic sights of Paris will play a starring role in the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The triathlon will depart from the Eiffel Tower Stadium where Champ de Mars will also host beach volleyball. Various cycling and open-water events will intersect the Trocadéro and the River Seine. Hôtel de Ville marks the start of the marathon, the Grand Palais will host fencing and taekwondo, and Esplanade des Invalides is the home of archery. Place de la Concorde is where Olympic breaking will make its debut on the program alongside other urban sports.
To the west, the Stade Roland-Garros, Stade Jean-Bouin, Parc des Princes, and Paris La Défense Arena will host soccer, tennis, boxing, basketball, and rugby. Over on the east – close to Disneyland Paris – Vaires-sur-Marne will be the hub of canoeing and rowing. A variety of Olympic and Paralympic Games including weightlifting, table tennis, and boccia will take place at Paris Expo in the south.
All Olympic and Paralympic venues are easily reachable via the Paris Metro.
How to get to the Olympic Village from ParisThe Olympic Village is located in the north Paris suburb of Seine-Saint-Denis. As the flagship stadium, Stade de France is down to be the epicenter of track and field events. Metro Line D serves Stade de France Saint-Denis and Line B serves La Plaine Stade de France. Journey time is five minutes from Gare du Nord although lines will be busier during the Games.
Where will the Paris 2024 Olympics be held in France?Château de Versailles will host the 2024 Summer Olympics equestrian events while nearby Élancourt and Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines will form a cycling hub. Metro Line C connects Paris and Versailles Chantiers. The journey time takes 30 minutes from Champ de Mars Eiffel Tower but you will need to allow extra travel time during the Paris Olympics.
Nice, Bordeaux, Lyon, and Lille will host football matches, Marseille is handling sailing, and surfing is designated for Tahiti in French Polynesia. With the exception of Lille, each of these mainland cities is served by its own international airport. It’s straightforward to travel to any French city from Paris via train although the ban on short-haul flights in France will increase demand for tickets. As with booking where to stay for the Paris Olympics, advance planning is key.
Besides the train station at Charles de Gaulle International Airport, these are the six major railway terminals in Paris.
Gare du Nord (10th arrondissement) for trains to Lille and Northern France.Gare de Lyon (12th arrondissement) for trains to Lyon, Nice, Marseille, and Southeast France.Gare de l’Est (10th arrondissement) for trains to Eastern France.Gare Montparnasse (14th/15th arrondissements) for trains to Bordeaux, Western, and Southwestern France.Gare d’Austerlitz (13th arrondissement) for trains to Central France.Gare St. Lazare (8th arrondissement) for trains to Normandy and elsewhere in Île-de-France.More like thisEntertainmentThe Sexiest and Most Provocative Shows You Can See in Paris
November 13, 2023
This Puerto Vallarta Resort Makes It Easy To Feel at Home
Perhaps it was the agua fresca, or maybe the immense high-domed lobby filled with decorative rustic brick arches and columns. Whatever it was, as soon as I strolled into Velas Vallarta and glanced around, I felt swept away into a dreamy Mexican getaway. The resort felt like a second home very quickly.
Velas Vallarta’s U-shaped layout is easy and cozy, with a lush oasis surrounding the swimming pools and iguanas and peacocks roaming freely across the property. Interacting with the staff, my partner and I felt a warm sense of belonging and the chance to leave our work stress at the door. We knew immediately this was a great spot to take a break from our crazy lives, and this proved true throughout the stay – there’s no struggle to let it all go here.
While some resorts feel hectic, have large, confusing layouts, and mill you in and out like cattle, you won’t get that here. Everything feels harmonious, purposeful, and once in the room, even homey. You can come and let your hair down at Velas Vallarta, so if you need to let go, this is the right place.
Velas Vallarta is an easy place to feel at home
Taking a trip to Mexico? Check out Matador’s Mexico accommodations guides: The best Airbnbs in and around Mexico City’s historic center 8 La Condesa Airbnbs to settle into Mexico City’s coolest neighborhood 8 stunning Polanco Airbnbs in the city’s most international neighborhood Grab Your Crew and Book These Oaxaca and CDMX Airbnbs for Dia de Los Muertos These Top-Rated Tulum Airbnb Rentals Put You Right Near the Beach 11 Cancún Airbnbs for an Unforgettable Beach Vacation 11 Airbnbs In Cabo San Lucas for a Perfect Beach Escape 11 Airbnbs in Sayulita to experience Mexico’s most underrated beach town These Airbnbs in Tijuana showcase the best of Mexico’s underrated coastal city
Photo courtesy Velas Resorts
For a traveler who lives on the road, finding a spot that feels like a “home” is a constant struggle. Velas Vallarta was more than just a place to lodge; it provided us with a genuine home away from home that we’d be happy to remain in. The resort offers a variety of rooms, ranging from cozy studios to spacious three-bedroom suites. Each space is meticulously designed with a keen eye for detail. Every room treats you to breathtaking views, whether it’s the lush gardens around the pool or the rhythmic waves crashing against the shores, framed by the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains.
One unique feature of this resort is that the property started out as a condominium, so the “rooms” really are designed as a full-time home. While you may not plan to cook during your vacation, having a full kitchen is a great feature. The fridge, stocked with a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic ice-cold drinks, is particularly welcoming after an afternoon spent basking under the warm sun of Mexico’s Pacific coast.
Our stay in the One Bedroom Deluxe Suite was nothing short of incredible. Our suite boasted a king-sized bed, a generously sized living room, a dedicated dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a spacious patio that could be accessed from both the living room and the bedroom.
The icing on the cake was the view of the lush garden below, with two inviting pools among the trees and the soothing waves in the distance. The view was at its absolute best when we first woke up in the morning. There’s nothing like stepping outside in a cozy resort robe, sipping a hot cup of coffee, and savoring the moment.
There are studios and suites available at the resort with options from one to three bedrooms, and rates go from $300 to $8,000 per night depending on your room and whether you choose their all-inclusive packages or not.
Comfortable amenities in the heart of Marina Vallarta
Photo courtesy Velas Resorts
When you begin to explore Velas Vallarta, it’s immediately apparent that this resort epitomizes the Puerto Vallarta resort experience, from the posh area north of the city center known as Marina Vallarta. The property features two distinct pools, each offering a distinct vibe. The first pool is lively, with a swim-up palapa bar where the sounds of blenders crafting piña coladas blend with the gentle swaying of palm trees overhead. It’s a vibrant oasis designed for those seeking a spirited atmosphere.
The second pool, connected to the first via a small channel, presents a serene escape surrounded by lush greenery and a rocky waterfall. This one is often the quieter pool of the two. While I must admit that relaxation came effortlessly here, Velas Vallarta takes it to the next level with an on-site spa. I couldn’t resist indulging in a full-body massage that left me in a blissful trance. If you’re traveling with little ones, you’ll also find a children’s pool and a kid’s center, adding an extra layer of convenience.
While the city of Puerto Vallarta offers an abundance of activities and attractions, Velas Vallarta offers its own entertainment if you don’t want to leave. Almost every night, the resort hosts special events to delight its guests, from thrilling casino nights to enchanting magic shows, and lively Sunday night fiestas.
Velas Vallarta gives you the choice to go all-inclusive or not. Having the option to order your drinks as you please, enjoy room service at your leisure, or savor a fine meal at one of the restaurants without constantly reaching for your wallet is a priceless benefit, though it does nearly double the rate, depending on your package. Basic non-inclusive packages can be found for $168, with all-inclusive options starting at $298 at the time of writing.
Photo courtesy Velas Resorts
The resort boasts two restaurants, La Ribera and Andrea. What makes these dining experiences truly outstanding is their ever-evolving themes, ensuring you’re never stuck with repetitive menus – an issue I’ve encountered at some all-inclusive resorts, but luckily, not here.
From Mexican delights to the flavors of Italy and the vibrant spices of Asia, the resort’s dining options offer a variety that keeps your taste buds excited. You can order from the menu or dive right into the buffet on offer that night. For those who prefer to savor their meals in the privacy of their room, Velas Vallarta offers in-room dining service with its exclusive menu. We ordered in-room service for a light lunch one afternoon simply because we were too lazy to go out and not hungry enough to need a full meal.
If that’s not enough and you find yourself feeling a bit peckish while wandering the property, fret not. A crepe bar awaits at the front lobby, ready to serve up delectable savory and sweet crepes for those random cravings.
Off-resort activities near Velas Vallarta
Photo: eskystudio/Shutterstock
Tau Beach Club
A must-visit within the Velas Vallarta experience is the Tau Beach Club. Situated just a stone’s throw from the resort, it’s a secluded adult-only beachfront paradise. Envision an intimate outdoor dining area overlooking the bay, a perfect pool with inviting loungers, and a friendly waitstaff eager to serve you drinks and fresh coconuts.
As if the setting wasn’t enough, the menu offers refreshing snacks and meals. The octopus appetizer and aguachiles (shrimp in pepper and lime juice) are to die for.
Tau Beach Club is included for guests staying at Casa Velas (Velas Vallarta’s sister property), but you can purchase a day pass for 2,000 pesos (about $100), 400 of which can go towards food and drink. As DINKs ourselves (that’s double-income-no-kids), my partner and I loved spending the day here just soaking up the sun to the sound of the waves.
Explore Yelapa on a day trip
Don’t miss the chance to head out on a Yelapa day trip, a one-hour boat ride from Los Muertos Pier to reach this charming coastal town. Yelapa greets you with its picturesque tiled walkways, a pristine beach, a couple of mesmerizing waterfalls to chase, and vistas from the opposite side of Bahía de Banderas.
Stroll along the Malecon
In Centro Puerto Vallarta, the Malecon, or boardwalk, is the city’s hub of activity. On one side, the waves crash gently along the shore, and on the other, you’ll find a mix of shopping, dining, and stunning streets to explore. You can take a stroll along the Malecon or weave through the streets, where a treasure trove of Mexican restaurants, art galleries, captivating murals, and quaint shops can be found.
Reaching Velas Vallarta is a breeze and less than 10 minutes away from the airport. You’ll fly into Puerto Vallarta (PVR), and from there, the resort is just a short shuttle ride away. You can organize pick-up from the airport through Velas Vallarta or grab a taxi or Uber.
What It’s Like To Be a Premium Guest at a Royalton Resort (Hello, Butler Service)
“Welcome home!”
As soon as I set foot onto the polished lobby floor of the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, I was greeted like a long lost friend coming home for an extended stay.
Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun is an all-inclusive luxury resort located between mangrove fields and the Caribbean Sea on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Opened in December 2022, the resort has a layout that’ll be familiar to guests who’ve stayed at other Royalton properties, which makes arrivals feel like homecomings for repeat visitors. There’s a lot to love for first-time Royalton guests, too, whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat where you stay in a swim-out room or you’re planning a family getaway full of lazy rivers and a wild water park.
During our visit to Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, my husband, Chris, and I were treated to Diamond Club status, an ultra-luxe service that starts with a private check-in area. We were whisked past the registration desks to a quiet lounge with a full bar and tempting buffet spread. Bottled water, libations, and a much-needed snack fueled us after a long journey as we waited our turn to check in, giving us a first taste of what Royalton’s premium service had in store.
Diamond Club rooms have the best views, plus butler service
Photo: Courtesy of the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun
At the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, accommodations are more than just places to drop your bags — they’re vacation havens. Suites are spacious, with beds designed for a sound night’s sleep, and rain showers and soaking tubs to provide relaxation when you’re awake.
Rooms with balconies overlooking the ocean or pool are the epitome of luxury. The easiest way to guarantee you’ll get a room with a killer view at a Royalton resort is to book an exclusive Diamond Club room. (You may also be able to upgrade on arrival, depending on availability.)
Photo: Courtesy of the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun
Chris and I were delighted to find that our suite was a swim-out room. Our terrace slider opened to a patio and semi-private infinity pool. Each terrace was partially separated by a wall and a personal swim space that opened to a long pool encompassing several patios. It was magical to sip Champagne and peer out onto the ocean while perched on the edge of the infinity pool.
Diamond Club guests also have access to a personal butler — a helpful hotel staff member waiting on the other side of WhatsApp to assist you with making dinner reservations, securing choice cabanas, and generally facilitating your dream vacation with white-glove service.
This trip to Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun was my first experience with butler service. Now, I don’t know how I’ll ever do without it. Our exceptional butlers, Alex and Carolina, walked us to our room, set up and confirmed reservations, sent daily activity notifications, and checked in with us regularly. Carolina even popped up at our beachside cabana to ensure we were having the best time. The level of attention paid to Diamond Club guests by the butlers frees up your time for more important vacation activities, such as relaxing on the beach, enjoying a beverage at the swim-up bar, or sneaking in a nap on a comfy pool lounge chair.
Diamond Club guests get complimentary hydrotherapy and spa discounts
Photo: Courtesy of the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun
My Cancún adventure was all about wellness. More than just hitting the gym hard, an overall wellness plan includes mental and physical care. Experiencing an immersive wellness retreat also includes relaxing, sleeping peacefully, enjoying healthy food, and laughing. It’s a vacation where you walk away feeling physically and mentally rested.
Exploring the fitness center and services at Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun was a high priority for me. When I first entered the gym, I marveled at its size, equipment, and panoramic view. The desk attendant immediately handed me a towel and a bottle of water and escorted me around. This is a gym that rivals one you would pay a hefty monthly membership fee to use.
First up for me was 8 AM yoga. It was a bit terrifying to think about balancing after a late night, but my worry was for naught. Five guests came together on the terrace of the busy, multi-level fitness center for a 45-minute flow yoga practice. Sprinkled with a few challenging poses, the yoga session was energizing without being too strenuous. During savasana, a pose that involves lying flat on your back, massage therapists from The Royal Spa enhanced our final pose with a neck and shoulder massage.
Photo: Courtesy of the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun
Included in the Diamond Club upgrade is an hour of therapeutic hydrotherapy. I’m a lover of both spas and water, but this was a new adventure for me. Chris, who’s not a fan of spas, happily agreed to join. I was happy he did as most of the guests in the pool were in pairs of two.
During hydrotherapy, a spa guide attends to your every move, timing your steam and sauna in gender-separate locker rooms and your rotation through the heated pool circuits. Divided into two-by-two sections, the session guides guests through personal waterfalls, water jets that target high-tension areas, and finally a chilling cool down. Your personal rejuvenation wraps up with hot tea, a relaxing moment, and perhaps a little gleeful meditation. We enjoyed our hydrotherapy at a sister resort, the Royalton Riviera Cancun, but The Royal Spa at the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun offers a similarly luxurious hydro treatment pool.
Beyond the hydrotherapy offering for Diamond Club guests, a full spa service is key to any wellness resort, and I’m always on the hunt for something different in the spa world. At the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, I found that in the Egyptian Stone Massage, a relaxing yet engaging tactile treatment that centers on a heated bed with several inches of crushed stone. Such relaxing yet energizing treatments are available to all guests, but Diamond Club members get yet another wellness perk: 20 percent off of various spa services.
Exclusive dining options for Diamond Club guests
Photo: Sandi Barrett
I like to pick and choose my wellness endeavors, and skimping on dining is not one of them. At Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, the dining and imbibing options are seemingly endless, especially for Diamond Club guests.
Diamond Club guests have access to two exclusive dining options. To start, the Rio Brazilian grill serves a delicious breakfast buffet exclusively for Diamond Club members. Additionally, next to the Diamond Club Pool, another exclusive perk, premium guests can enjoy Grazie Italian Trattoria, which serves up yummy pizzas and other Italian delicacies. Of course, they also have access to the rest of the resort’s dining options.
Photo: Sandi Barrett
For a taste of it all, the massive Gourmet Marché international buffet is a cornucopia of delicious goodies, represented by mini stations from the on-site restaurants. You’ll find the perfect combination of familiar favorites sitting next to local specialties. Fresh dragon fruit, rambutan, and prickly pear share basket space with bananas, oranges, and apples. Salsa and guacamole are as predominant as cream cheese and prosciutto.
For casual seated dinners, options at the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun include Agave’s Mexican cuisine, The Cave’s global flavors, the Hunter Steakhouse, Rio’s Brazilian grill, Smoke BBQ, TAJ’s Indian flavors, ZEN for Teppanyaki and Japanese cuisine, and the adults-only Ma Maison serving French cuisine.
Lighter offerings are available from the Caffe Lounge, Score Sports Bar, Grazie To Go, Scoops Gelato, Nibbles, and a Chef To Go food truck.
While I didn’t get to sample every venue, my favorite of the restaurants that I did patronize was Agave. The empanada appetizer was served with beautiful piquant pickled red onion, the fish tacos were unctuous and crunchy, and the dessert was divine — we split the tres leches cake, popcorn-topped flan, and chocolate brownie.
Photo: Sandi Barrett
For fans of spirits, when in Mexico, you must also taste tequila, which the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun makes easy to do. The tequila and mezcal tasting at the resort’s winery venue was a lesson in the history of local agave plants and the process of crafting fine spirits. The winery’s sommelier, Carlos, walked us through each glass, testing for color, aroma, taste, and finish. As the tequila progressed, so did the pairings. We sampled ceviche, octopus tacos, beef, and chocolate truffles, each of which sang a beautiful duet with the tequila varieties.
Entertainment and activities at the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun
Photo: Courtesy of the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun
Entertainment is an important part of the all-inclusive resort experience for all guests. At all-inclusive beach resorts in Mexico, including the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, that typically starts with access to a white-sand beach, whether you reserve a cabana or snag a vacant lounge chair where you can relax with a cool drink and a great summer read.
Then, there are the pools. There are six amazing pools and two lazy rivers at the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun. This is where many guests choose to spend the day soaking — when they’re not enjoying the resort’s other activities and offerings, that is.
Photo: Courtesy of the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun
In the center of the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun is a stage, enormous screen, and rows of chairs where various events are held. The show lineups include dancers, musicians, and other elaborate performances. We were treated to a Micheal Jackson retrospective during which a team of entertainers electrified the audience with their glitzy performance.
Elsewhere, the resort’s water park slides are a huge draw for the young and young at heart. There’s something cathartic about zipping blindly through a tube only to land in a splash of water. Laughter is the best medicine, and the water park made me giddy. It was one of many experiences at the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun that made me leave the resort feeling rested, relaxed, refreshed, and a little sad to be saying goodbye.
Getting to Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun
Photo: Courtesy of the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun
Many US cities offer direct flights to Cancún International Airport. As you make your descent into Cancún, the array of blues and greens help to reduce your blood pressure even before your feet hit the soft white sand. After a quick trip through border patrol, we were greeted by information guides directing us to our transportation. Nexus Tours provides complimentary shuttle service for Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun guests. The transition was seamless, and we were swept away to our beachfront home in no time.
Climate Change Is Destroying the World’s Largest Waterfall
The tallest waterfall on Earth is 2.2 miles high. No, it’s not Angel Falls in Venezuela, Niagara Falls, or Victoria Falls. It’s actually called the Denmark Strait cataract, and it’s located between Greenland and Iceland underneath the Denmark Strait. That’s right – it’s completely underwater. Water here falls from the Greenland Sea into the Iriger Sea, at a descent over three times as high as Angel Falls. The cataract is also over 100 miles wide, making it an absolute behemoth of a cascade.
But how can a waterfall exist…well, underwater? It’s all about the water temperature. According to the National Ocean Service, since cold water is denser than warm water, when southward-flowing water from the Nordic Seas merges with the warmer water of the Irmiger Sea, it sinks, and the cold water is forced below the warmer water. The cold water then flows over a huge drop in the seafloor to create the Denmark Strait cataract.
Climate change, however, is threatening underwater waterfalls like the Denmark Strait. Since oceans are getting warmer, there’s more freshwater and less sea ice formation, meaning a drawdown in the volume of cold water flowing downward.
Anna Sanchez-Vidal is leading an expedition investigating the Denmark Strait cataract. “A good example is on the Catalan coast,” she said in a statement, “where the decrease in the number of tramontane days in winter in the Gulf of Lion and north of the Catalan coast is causing a weakening of this oceanographic process, which is decisive in regulating the climate and has a great impact on deep ecosystems.”
These underwater falls may still remain a bit of a mystery, but it would be a shame to lose them to climate change before we can fully understand them.
November 11, 2023
‘Shape-Shifting Demon Chickens:’ How To See One of the US’s Weirdest Birds
It was a rough morning at Club Lek for Mortimer the prairie chicken. He’d arrived long before sunrise, scoping out the best spot in the club before the females arrived. He busted out his best dance moves, hopping around in semi-circles, whooping, and fast-stepping across the floor. When the sun came up, the ladies were treated to a brilliant display of his bright orange plume, exploding out from under his neck.
But as soon as Mortimer began showing off, a bigger prairie chicken challenged him to a fight, and took over Mortimer’s prime real estate.
Since it was cold outside, and most of the ladies had stayed home to protect their chicks, he was left with few options. He slinked back into the corner of Club Lek with a couple of other out-of-luck prairie chickens, likely realizing his chances of copulation were pretty slim. He let out another whoop, perhaps meaning “this place is dead, anyways.” As the sun began to creep up on the sprawling Colorado plains, Mortimer and his friends hopped their way out, bidding farewell to another fruitless morning.
Photo: Rob Palmer Photography/Shutterstock
But unlike a human who strikes out after a night at the club, Mortimer had an entire gallery of people watching his failure.
Such is an average morning at the prairie chicken breeding grounds during mating season in Wray, Colorado. It’s a bucket-list experience for many birders, and the biggest tourist attraction in the flatlands of eastern Colorado. The name may sound a little silly, and it might not offer the same high-speed thrills as you’ll find in the western part of the state on skis or a mountain bike. But if you’re the kind of traveler who seeks unique travel experiences you’ll barely find on Instagram – or are an avid birder – it’s an ideal way to explore a corner of the country few people ever visit.
What the heck is a prairie chicken?
Photo: Brian A. Wolf/Shutterstock
The greater prairie chicken is actually not a chicken, but rather, a member of the grouse family more closely related to pheasant or quail. The plucky little birds scuttle their way around the Great Plains region of the United States, most of them living somewhere between North Dakota and northern Oklahoma, but also dipping into Colorado and Missouri. Like a lot of midwestern grassland animals, their numbers fell to near-extinction in the 20th century when farmers converted their habitat into agricultural land.
But the species has made a slight comeback and is now only rated as a threatened species. But because only a few hundred thousand exist across near-limitlessness of the Great Plains states, their unusual mating show is hard to witness. When they’re on the prowl, they inflate huge sacks on their necks and turn their head feathers straight up, looking like ears or horns. One Redditor called it “a shape-shifting demon chicken,” while another said,”Cute tho. Looks like a bunny and a chicken made a baby.”
“If you’re a birder, it provides one of the most unique combinations of audio and dance and plumage you’ll find,” says Ardith Hendrix, Director of the Wray Museum in Wray, Colorado, who runs eight tours a year during the March and early April mating season. “Usually, you see beautiful plumage with no sounds, or you see a bird just known for its sounds. The greater prairie chicken combines them both.”
Photo: Danita Delimont/Shutterstock
There are a number of places you can do these tours, but Wray is the easiest and most organized setting. It’s also convenient, at less than two hours from the Denver airport, and arguably the most scenic.
Wray itself is the kind of place you fly over on an airplane or drive through on a road trip and wonder, “What goes on down there?” The answer is agriculture. It’s home to one of two licensed camel dairies in the US, a fishery that stocks Colorado’s mountain lakes, and a potato processing plant staffed by Yuma County’s surprising population of South African immigrants. It’s a small town surrounded by endless open spaces, making it the perfect backdrop for a wildlife experience unlike anything you’d experience at home (unless you live in Wray).
“Sitting there watching the sunrise, watching the birds do their thing, you get that throwback to how it might have been 150 or 200 years ago,” says Hendrix. “It’s especially unique for people from the east, where they’re in all these wooded areas and tight spaces.”
A morning with the greater prairie chickenView this post on Instagram
A post shared by Fossil Rim Wildlife Center (@fossilrim)
Prairie chicken mating tours begin the night before the main event, when all participants gather at the Wray Museum for orientation. A naturalist addresses the group, tells them what to look for and what to expect, and explains the process and the steps of the mating dance. The crowd is long on birding folks, but there’s also a smattering of children and younger couples looking to do something different.
“We’ve got people as young as 8 to 10 years old, up to people in their 80s,” says Hendrix. “Our tours are limited, so a lot of times, we get people who are here for a weekend on the front range and want to explore a part of the state they haven’t seen before.”
The next morning, the motley crew reassembles outside the museum around 5 A.M. Most mating activity happens just before and after sunrise, so the predawn start time is necessary. A 45-minute bus ride takes participants deep into the prairies to the birds’ mating area, also known as a “lek.” There, a small wooden shack with rows of bleachers arranged like stadium seats awaits, and the morning of mating commences.
Does it sound a little awkward to have bleachers set up to watch copulation? Sure. And for humans, this would probably be illegal in most states. But the prairie chickens barely seem to notice the audience, continuing with their dances despite the gaggle of onlookers.
Their mating rituals aren’t that unlike human ones, really. The males show up first and mark out their territories, separated by everything from fence posts to cow droppings. Then, they begin their unusual dances, hopping around in half-circles trying to impress the females, letting out loud whoops, and inflating their impressive orange pouches.
“People love seeing the antics of these birds, and the parallels that can be seen in human life,” Hendrix remarks. “The guys are doing their thing, figuring out where to go. Then the females come in and it all goes out the window.”
If another male gets too close to their territory, males will start jousting. The loser has to go find new turf, and the winner has more space to attract females. The males’ jousting is endlessly entertaining, as they leap into the air and peck at each other until one bird gives up. It’s more like watching colorful mixed martial arts than it is soft-core bird porn, and for the assorted birders in the trailer, it doesn’t fail to satisfy.
The viewing trailer stays silent, save for the whipping wind, the whooping birds, and the flickering of camera shutters. So aside from the impressive show of nature, the experience is fairly meditative.
Tours are limited and happen only eight times per year, so it’s not unusual for them to be booked months in advance. It’s best to book your tour in the late fall if you only have one day to go. Tours are $150 per person and bookable online through the Wray Chamber of Commerce. You can also find private tours hosted by photographers online.
Where to stay and what to eat in Wray, ColoradoView this post on Instagram
A post shared by Mark (@poacewave)
Wray itself is a quaint town — most businesses don’t have webpages, and you won’t find any luxury resorts. But it does have a small downtown area and enough variety to keep you well fed for a few nights. The 4th and Main Downtown Grill sits upstairs in an historic building, and offers a surprisingly varied menu ranging from ahi poke bowls to midwestern steaks and sun-dried tomato pasta.
La Familia is a few minutes from downtown and offers immense portions of authentic Mexican food that could hold its own against anything in a big city. If you’re up for a drive, the county seat of Yuma has a spot called Mexsu that serves up Asian-Latin fusion. And just across the border into Nebraska is a craft beer bar with a true sense of place. It’s called Uppa Crick Hop Yard and Tap Room and sits a few miles up a dirt road in the middle of the hills outside the town of Parks. It’s both remote and beautiful, housed in a two-story home converted into a bar with outdoor games, a reading room, and a music stage for live music on weekends. There’s even an Airbnb upstairs, if you feel like sampling all the beers without driving home.
Staying in Wray is pretty easy, and Doc’s Bed and Breakfast offers the most immersive experience. The historic home has bedrooms furnished in turn-of-the-century decor, and is walking distance from the museum.
The prairie chicken mating season experience is stunningly peaceful. It’s the kind of vacation where you get out into wide open spaces and realize the country is so much more vast than the city or town you may confine yourself to — or the popular places you see on Instagram. Watching the greater prairie chickens is a highly entertaining experience, and a unique way to see America’s wildlife that most people will never get to witness. So while your friends are regaling you with the same stories about how to spend a week in Paris, you can bust out your tale of observing the bizarre and endearing prairie chicken mating season. Chances are, even if you don’t make whooping noises, people are going to listen.
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