Matador Network's Blog, page 257

Approaching Springhill Suites from US Route 191, mere minutes from the boundary of Arches National Park and a 30-minute drive to Canyonlands National Park, this rust-red Marriott property practically disappears into its surroundings. Then you step inside to find two cool blue pools, a children’s pool, and three hot tubs integrated into the hotel’s rocky, Moab-inspired landscaping, and Springhill Suites becomes an oasis. Close enough to explore both Arches and Canyonlands on your own, Springhill Suites also helps to organize desert excursions through virtually every mode of transportation possible — hummer, boat, helicopter, raft, UTV, you name it. Expect standard amenities such as complimentary breakfast and WiFi, as well as a fitness center and corner market that are open all 24 hours.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Moab: 1865 N Highway 191, Moab, UT, 84532
Price per night: $384

Hoodoo Moab

Photo: Expedia

Hoodoo Moab understands that national park travels don’t have to be rough and ready. The refined-rustic hotel capitalizes on its location — a 10-minute drive from Arches National Park and half-hour to Canyonlands National Park — with room views that showcase the striking red-rock landscape while providing modern amenities, such as a full-service spa. For an extra special stay, book one of the hotel’s two-bedroom casitas, which come with fully equipped kitchens and gas fireplaces to make sure you stay cozy in the cool desert evenings.

Hoodoo Moab: 111 N. 100W Moab Utah, 84532, Moab, UT, 84532
Price per night: $367

Under Canvas Moab

Photo: Expedia

Offering a collection of upscale, safari-style tents, Under Canvas Moab sits on 40 acres about 20 miles from Canyonlands National Park (that’s roughly 25 minutes away by car). Guests of the glampsite can choose from a variety of accommodations, including teepees, safari tents, and luxury tents equipped with ensuite bathrooms. Despite its remote location, the camp provides many comforts of home, such as West Elm furniture, organic bath products, and EV charging — virtually everything you might want except WiFi, an intentional choice to help guests embrace the tranquility of the desert. With all the time you’ll save doomscrolling, take advantage of the complimentary on-site entertainment, such as morning yoga and live music at night, as well as post-dinner s’mores parties around the property’s fire pits.

Under Canvas Moab: 13784 North Highway 191, Moab, UT, 84532
Price per night: $312

Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn

Photo: Expedia

If you want to be a little more on-grid during your visit to Canyonlands National Park, the Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn has the advantage of being located on Moab’s Main Street. That means that in addition to the nearby national parks, you’ll also be a stone’s throw from downtown attractions such as the Museum of Moab and a number of dining options. Rooms at the Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn are perfectly comfortable for nights in, enhanced by amenities such as the seasonal outdoor pool, fitness center, and rooftop terrace. Past guests also have nothing but great things to say about the complimentary hot breakfast served every morning.

Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn: 16 South Main street, Moab, UT, 84532
Price per night: $299

River Canyon Lodge

Photo: Expedia

River Canyon Lodge: 71 W 200 N, Moab, UT, 84532
Price per night: $237

Located in downtown Moab near restaurants, bars, shops, art galleries, and more, the three-story River Canyon Lodge is ideal for national park visitors seeking a home base that makes exploring the surrounding area easy. The hotel features 80 rooms, including 21 suites, and is made cozy by property features such as the outdoor pool, hot tub, and the welcoming fireplace in the lobby. A short drive from both Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park, the River Canyon Lodge is also walking distance from the Arches Air Sports skydiving center — if you’re looking for an extra memorable view.

The Moab Resort

Photo: Expedia

A WorldMark Associate property, The Moab Resort is located a few minutes from both downtown Moab and Arches National Park by car, while still being drivable to Canyonlands National Park in about 30 minutes. A good choice for families, the resort offers a host of all-ages amenities to enhance your stay, including a swimming pool, hot tub, fire pit, playground, game room, and on-site dining. Just five miles from the grueling yet beloved 12-mile Slickrock Bike Trail, The Moab Resort is also a great choice for mountain bikers.

The Moab Resort: 1435 N Hwy 191, Moab, UT, 84532
Price per night: $226

Field Station Moab

Photo: Expedia

Located on Main Street in downtown Moab, Field Station Moab is a modern, camp-style property run by the AutoCamp Hospitality Group. Accommodation options range from van-life spots to rooms for up to eight people, with communal amenities such as a pool, spa tub, cafe, and beer garden to enjoy after a full day of hiking or mountain biking. Rooms at the Field Station are clean, comfortable, and pet-friendly making it a great place to bring the whole family — even the four-legged members.

Field Station Moab: 889 N Main St, Moab, UT, 84532
Price per night: $209

Hyatt Place Moab

Photo: Expedia

Hyatt Place Moab is located just five miles from the sandstone arches of Arches National Park and one mile from downtown Moab. The hotel features 118 guest rooms and eight casitas spread over three stories, with the promise of red-rock views wherever you stay. Amenities at Hyatt Place Moab include a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, and a fitness center. The hotel also offers a complimentary breakfast buffet, a terrace, and a coffee shop to make sure you stay energized for outdoor adventures. With its close proximity to attractions such as the Lions Park and Bike Path Trailhead and Courthouse Wash Pictographs, Hyatt Place Moab is good choice for active travelers who want to explore the Canyonlands National Park and beyond.

Hyatt Place Moab: 890 North Main Street, Moab, UT, 84532
Price per night: $141

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Published on September 06, 2023 10:55

How and Where To Watch the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

An extraordinary astronomical event will occur in North America on April 8, 2024: a total solar eclipse that will be visible in parts of Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The eclipse’s path of totality — where the moon passes directly in front of the sun and daytime darkness descends on Earth — stretches from Mazatlan on the Pacific Coast, across 13 states, to Canada’s Atlantic Coast.

Photo: Great American Eclipse/Michael Zeiler

In the US alone, more than 31 million people live in the 115-mile-wide path of totality, according to Michael Zeiler, eclipse chaser, cartographer, and co-founder of the Great American Eclipse website. Millions more will travel to see the celestial phenomenon in its full glory. After all, the next time a total solar eclipse will be visible in North America is 2044 (and again with a larger swath sweeping through the US in 2045).

Here’s the scoop on where and when to watch the solar eclipse 2024 — and why you don’t want to miss this otherworldly sight.

Looking for a hotel on the path of the total solar eclipse? Check out Matador’s accommodations guides:

These Exceptional Hotels in Austin Showcase the Finest Southern Hospitality in Texas The Most Luxurious Hotels in Dallas Close To All Downtown Must-See Sights 8 Airbnb Dallas Rentals To Experience the Heart of the City 15 Airbnbs in Austin for a BBQ- and Music-Filled Trip

A total solar eclipse is a mind-blowing experience

After viewing America’s total solar eclipse in August 2017, I vowed never again to miss one — events that are easy to travel to anyway (e.g. not occurring in the middle of the ocean or in Antarctica).

Five years ago, I road-tripped with my husband and kids from our Colorado home to Wyoming on the path of totality. The weather gods were with us on a brilliantly sunny day when we caravaned with friends north of Cheyenne on I-25. We planned to stop at a roomy rest area, pull out our camp chairs, don our safe eclipse-viewing glasses, and wait for the late-morning sky show. Alas, thousands of other eclipse chasers had the same idea. Our intended parking spot was overflowing with traffic backed up to the interstate.

We ended up pulling off at a different exit ramp and positioning our chairs in an open field with others who’d been shut out of the rest area. The mood was upbeat and strangers were exceedingly cordial as everyone anticipated the big event. As the moon took an increasingly bigger bite out of the bright sun, the sky grew darker and the air temperature dropped a few degrees. The eerie phenomenon brought on lots of emotional “oohs” and “aahs.”

Photo: Kara Williams

When the sun was fully eclipsed, we took off our safety glasses for a couple of minutes to admire its corona: the sun’s ethereal, halo-like, outermost atmosphere that’s visible only during a total solar eclipse. The expansive Wyoming sky didn’t turn midnight black. Instead, a faint pink-orange glow dusted the 360-degree horizon, as if the sun were setting all around us.

The total eclipse happened so quickly that it was hard to know what to focus on: the sun, the sky, my camera (outfitted with a solar filter), or my family’s reaction. For the 2024 eclipse, I’ll eschew trying to take decent photographs to be more present. What I do recall: Tears welling in my eyes at the awe-inspiring shared experience. And my 17-year-old science-loving daughter whispering, “Thank you, Mother Nature.”

Where and when the total solar eclipse 2024 will be visible

2024 solar eclipse map detailing driving times

Photo: Great American Eclipse/Michael Zeiler

Viewing the 2024 solar eclipse outside the path of totality won’t allow for the full, breathtaking encounter. Sure, if you’re elsewhere in North America and the weather cooperates, you’ll stand in the shadow of a partial eclipse, when the moon passes in front of just part of the sun. But unless you’re located somewhere on the total eclipse path that will travel from Mazatlan, Mexico, northeast to Newfoundland, Canada, the sight won’t be nearly as impressive.

There’s no mystery as to where and when you’ll be able to see the total solar eclipse in the United States. The eclipse will occur in parts of the following US states:

TexasOklahomaArkansasMissouriKentuckyIllinoisIndianaOhioPennsylvaniaNew YorkVermontNew HampshireMaine

Tiny slivers of Tennessee and Michigan are also on the path of totality, but they’re often omitted from state lists because the areas are so small.

US cities on the eclipse path include:

Austin, TXDallas, TXFort Worth, TXLittle Rock, ARIndianapolis, INDayton, OHCleveland, OHBuffalo, NYRochester, NYSyracuse, NYBurlington, VT

At any point along the path, scientists know down to the second when the moon will begin to pass in front of the sun (partial eclipse), how long the moon will fully cover the sun (totality), and when the sun will no longer be covered by the moon.

NASA spells out a few timetable examples rounded to the minute. For instance, in Dallas, Texas, the partial eclipse will begin at 12:23 PM CDT, totality occurs between 1:40 and 1:44 PM, and the moon will finish passing in front of the sun at 3:02 PM. In Caribou, Maine, the partial eclipse starts at 2:22 PM EDT, totality lasts just two minutes between 3:32 and 3:34 PM, and the show is over at 4:40 PM.

The closer a viewing spot is to the path’s center, the longer totality occurs. See the blue line on this helpful interactive Google map created by Xavier M. Jubier.

Best places to see the total solar eclipse 2024

Cloudless skies are key for viewing a total solar eclipse. “Texas will be the favored destination for most eclipse chasers because this state offers the best odds of clear weather on eclipse day,” says Michael Zeiler of the Great American Eclipse. Jay Anderson, who shares historical climate data at Ecipsophile, gets even more specific: “…according to the satellite data, the best climatological prospects lie between Junction and Brady, both in Texas.”

Ideally, you’re situated outdoors in a wide, open space with few buildings or large trees that might block your view of the sky. No matter where you plan to be on April 8, if you have your heart set on fully experiencing a total solar eclipse, you’ll need to be flexible. “Our advice is to stack your odds by paying attention to short-term weather forecasts, and if poor weather is forecast, jump in your car very early on eclipse day (or the evening before),” says Zeiler.

Consider what roads will allow you to move quickly to a new viewing spot. For example, Zeiler plans to be in Fredericksburg, Texas, with his family: “The Texas Hill Country has reasonably good weather prospects, [and] if the weather forces relocation, Fredericksburg is at the junction of six highways.”

Total solar eclipse 2024 community events and travel packages

From the Pacific to the North Atlantic oceans, and in tiny towns and major metropolises, opportunities to celebrate the eclipse along the path of totality are numerous. Unsurprisingly, hotels on the route have jacked up room rates, minimum multi-night stays are in place, and availability is already slim. If you haven’t confirmed accommodations yet, make your plans now.

Here’s just a sampling of ways to mark the event along the path:

Holland America Line’s 22-day Solar Eclipse & Circle Hawaii cruise from San Diego to Vancouver still has staterooms available at time of publication.More than two dozen Texas state parks will be open to visitors with a day pass or camping permit.The Mid-America Science Museum in Hot Springs, Arkansas, has scheduled a family-friendly viewing event with a picnic lunch.Southern Illinois University in Carbondale is holding Eclipse Day at Saluki Stadium.NASA is partnering with the International Motor Speedway in Indianapolis for a full day of programming.Sheraton Niagara Falls has a two-night stay starting at $899 per night.Vermont’s Jay Peak Resort is offering chair-lift rides to the ski mountain’s summit for prime eclipse viewing and lodging packages with eclipse swag.

Gear for watching the solar eclipse 2024 and other tips

Photo: Suzanne Tucker/Shutterstock

Solar filters (eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers) are key for looking at the sun during an eclipse. Otherwise, you could irreversibly damage your eyes. The only time you can look directly at the eclipse without protective eyewear is if you’re inside the path of totality and the moon is completely covering the sun with just the corona visible. The moment the moon begins to move away from the sun, you’ll need to put your special eclipse glasses back on.

Solar filters for telescopes, cameras, and smartphone lenses are also available. However, I’d leave photography to the experts and just admire the awe-inspiring scene without trying to capture the perfect image. Another pro tip: Don’t bother with a pinhole viewer. Buy the glasses. Or check with your local library for freebies.

Also, make your viewing plans with potential safe backup spots in mind. Yes, you want to be flexible if the weather goes south but preferably, you’re settled in place well before the partial eclipse begins. Operating a vehicle and searching the sky don’t pair well.

My family and I got lucky during the 2017 total solar eclipse when law enforcement didn’t shoo us off a Wyoming exit ramp. (Not that anyone could have effectively ticketed hundreds of cars parked illegally just off the interstate.) For the 2024 eclipse, we plan to be in Waco, Texas, standing with friends in a wide-open spot well before the show is scheduled to start. It’s likely we’ll have a glass of prosecco in hand, ready to toast Mother Nature in all her brilliance. Then we’ll start making plans for viewing our next celestial wonder. Northern Spain in 2026, anyone?

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Published on September 06, 2023 08:29

8 of the Coolest Airbnbs Near Disney World, Orlando

Disney World might be full of magic, but that doesn’t mean the magic has to stop once you leave the park. You don’t necessarily have to choose between staying in one of Disney’s sprawling, themed resort properties or a nondescript Orlando hotel room. Plus staying close to the park gives you a base and lets you experience Disney at night. There are plenty of Airbnbs near Disney World that capture the magic of the park, and you don’t even have to leave the property. From a Frozen inspired house to an Airbnb with a private arcade and theater (for watching your favorite Disney films, of course), these are the Airbnb Disney World rentals to bookmark for your next trip.

Traveling to Orlando, Universal Studios, or Disney World? Check out Matador’s guides to the best places to stay in the area: 8 of the coolest Airbnbs near Disney World, Florida 15 beautiful Florida Airbnbs for every type of traveler 6 Kissimmee Airbnbs for a multi-generational family Disney trip Bookend your Disney trip at these beautiful Orlando airport hotels The best 11 Airbnbs near Universal Studios 10 family-friendly Orlando resorts minutes from all major theme parks These downtown Orlando hotels put you near the best of the city center Top Orlando Airbnbs with a pool for the ultimate Florida getaway These Airbnbs put you a stone’s throw from Peppa Pig Theme Park

We hope you love the Airbnb Disney World rentals 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.

1. House with galactic-themed bedroom

Photo: Airbnb

With five bedrooms sleeping up to 12 people, this house can comfortably accommodate the whole family. There’s a private swimming pool and spillover spa, a game room with ping pong and air hockey, and a home theater with a huge projection screen. Children will love this place, as the kid’s room has a galactic theme with two sets of bunk beds and a PS4 game console — if the game room wasn’t quite entertaining enough.

Twelve guests, five bedrooms
Price: $290 per night

2. Margaritaville waterfront cottage

Photo: Airbnb

This four-bedroom cottage is equipped with a hot tub, heated private pool, and a second hot tub in one of the bedrooms for a bit more privacy. The cottage is located in a resort community just five minutes from Disney, and comes with complimentary access to the Island H2O Live! water park and Sunset Walk. There’s also free transportation to Disney and Universal.

Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $279 per night

3. Villa with game room and theater

Photo: Airbnb

Just a few minutes away from Disney, Universal, and Sea World, this villa is equipped with a game room and private screened-in lanai with a heated pool. It’s located within the Storey Lake Resort, which has access to a tropical resort pool with a lazy river, mini-golf, a fitness center, tiki bar, and sand beach. Accommodating sixteen guests in nine bedrooms, there’s plenty of room for a large family or group of friends.

Sixteen guests, nine bedrooms
Price: $482 per night

4. Beachfront property with private pool

Photo: Airbnb

Just five minutes from Disney World, this cottage is located in the Margaritaville resort, which comes with access to a water park, pools, cabanas, spa, fitness center, and Kid’s Club. If you’d rather maintain your privacy, you also have your own pool and jacuzzi. Perhaps most enticing of all, you’ll have access to a sandy beach where you can soak up the sun after a full day visiting the Disney parks.

Ten guests, three bedrooms
Price: $317 per night

5. Disney-themed house for the whole family

Photo: Airbnb

Staying in this eight-bedroom house is kind of like staying at one of Disney’s own resorts. Its rooms are decked out in Frozen, Beauty and the Beast, Toy Story, and Harry Potter aesthetics, so even when you leave the park — you haven’t really left the magic behind. The Harry Potter-themed game room has a 75” smart TV, while the outside pool and lanai have views of Disney’s fireworks on clear nights. A golf cart will even be provided for you to more easily explore the Emerald Island Resort’s amenities, including a sauna, gym, sand volleyball, tennis courts, and nature trail.

Sixteen guests, eight bedrooms
Price: $266 per night

6. Frozen inspired six bedroom house

Photo: Airbnb

If your little one is obsessed with Frozen, look no further. This six-bedroom house has a bedroom that looks like it was lifted straight from the Frozen film, with huge wallpaper depicting Elsa standing in a sprawling tundra. There’s also a Star Wars-themed room with double bunk beds, for children who might not be quite as Frozen inclined. It also has a private pool, a TV in every room, and access to a resort with a water park and free Disney shuttles.

Sixteen guests, six bedrooms
Price: $307 per night

7. “Disney Mansion” golf resort with pool

Photo: Airbnb

This upscale house mixes luxurious mansion vibes with a chill, relaxed atmosphere. The house has 11 bedrooms, a den, five bathrooms, a dining room that seats 16 people, and an outside dining area with two BBQ grills that seats up to 24. There’s also a private pool overlooking a golf course. Located in the Highlands Reserve Golf & Tennis Resort, the property also gives guests access to the communal tennis courts, clubhouse, and an Olympic-sized swimming pool.

Sixteen guests, eleven bedrooms
Price: $446 per night

8. House with private arcade and theater

Photo: Airbnb

Bring the kids to this house, and they might not want to leave. It has a full arcade room featuring Pump It Up dance, Spongebob Racing, Pac-Man, and an Xbox 360 and PS4. There’s also a private home theater and lanai with a pool and hot tub, and a massage chair in one of the bedrooms. If you’re looking for Airbnbs near Disney World, it doesn’t get more convenient than this — the house is located in the popular Windsor Hills Resort community, just two miles from the entrance to Disney.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $318 per night

How much is the average Airbnb in Orlando?

The average Airbnb price in Orlando is $180 per night, before taxes and fees. This is based on data from AirDNA, a company that tracks Airbnb listings. The price can vary depending on the time of year, the location of the Airbnb, and the amenities it offers. For example, Airbnbs in the heart of Disney World will be more expensive than Airbnbs in a more suburban area.

Here are some other factors that can affect the price of an Airbnb in Orlando:

The number of bedrooms and bathroomsThe size of the AirbnbWhether it has a pool or other amenitiesThe time of year (peak season for travel to Disney World is June through August)Whether it is booked last-minute or booked in advanceWhat neighborhoods are closest to Disney World?

The best neighborhood for you will depend on your budget, your family’s needs, and your desired lifestyle. If you are looking for a convenient and family-friendly option, Celebration or Kissimmee are good choices. If you are looking for a more affordable option, Davenport or Windermere are good choices. And if you are looking for the most exclusive option, Golden Oak is the best choice.

Is Kissimmee or Orlando closer to Disney World?

Kissimmee is closer to Disney World than Orlando. The distance from Kissimmee to the Magic Kingdom is 10.7 miles, while the distance from downtown Orlando to the Magic Kingdom is 22 miles. However, it is important to note that the term “Orlando” is often used to refer to the entire metropolitan area, which includes Kissimmee. So, if you are staying in a hotel in downtown Orlando, it may be just as close to Disney World as a hotel in Kissimmee.

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Published on September 06, 2023 05:48

September 5, 2023

Coastal Pacific Railway reopening

In November 2016, a 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck and ravaged the region around the town of Kaikoura on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island. The earthquake and the ensuing landslides killed two people, and demolished homes, roads, and railway tracks. Indeed, parts of the Main North Line, one of the most scenic rail routes in the world, slid into the ocean, forcing the Coastal Pacific train to stop its operation. In 2018, the line was repaired and the magnificent train journey between Christchurch and Picton resumed. Today, the Coastal Pacific still runs along the Pacific Ocean, allowing travelers to see New Zealand’s beauty, the slow and comfortable way.

What is the route of New Zealand’s Coastal Pacific train?How much does the Coastal Pacific train cost?How long is the Coastal Pacific train in New Zealand?Does the Coastal Pacific train run all year?Is food served on board the Coastal Pacific train?What is the most scenic train in New Zealand?What is the route of New Zealand’s Coastal Pacific train?

The train travels along the Pacific coast of New Zealand’s South Island, between Christchurch and Picton, in both directions. The train makes three stops along the way in: Rangiora. Kaikoura, and Blenheim. Passengers can book several stopovers if they want to visit the towns along the way.

Note that Picton is the getaway to the North Island, via the Interislander Cook Strait ferry that runs between Picton and Wellington multiple times daily.

How much does the Coastal Pacific train cost?

The cost of riding the Coastal Pacific does not vary according to demand or the time of the year; however, the price of the train journey changes depending on what class of service you choose upon booking.

There are two classes of service on board the train: Scenic and Scenic Plus, with Scenic Plus being the most expensive option. Passengers who opt for Scenic Plus travel in a separate car, enjoy reclining seats, and are served a complimentary meal and beverages at their seat. Scenic Plus passengers also benefit from more flexibility regarding changes and cancellations.

A one-way Scenic ticket on the Coast Pacific costs $110 (187 NZD) for adults and $73 (124 NZD) for children. A one-way Scenic Plus ticket is $264 (449 NZD) for both adults and children.

Travelers who wish to ride the Coastal Pacific from Christchurch to Picton and back on the same day, can opt for the whole-day Coastal Pacific Day Excursion which costs $176 (299 NZD) for adults and $129 (219 NZD) for children.

To purchase a ticket to ride on the Coastal Pacific, you can visit the Kiwi Rail website or the Great Journeys New Zealand website.

How long is the Coastal Pacific train in New Zealand?

The Coastal Pacific takes between 5.5 to six hours to travel between Christchurch and Picton. The departure from Christchurch is very early: 7 AM.

Does the Coastal Pacific train run all year?

The Coastal Pacific does not run all-year-round. It operates Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday starting in September (September 21 in 2023), and daily from mid-December to late April (from December 14 to April 28 in 2023.)

Is food served on board the Coastal Pacific train? The Scenic Café in the Coastal Pacific Train in New Zealand

Photo: Great Journeys New Zealand

Scenic Plus passengers enjoy a meal and beverages served at their seat, all included in the price of their ticket.

Scenic passengers can bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks on board or take advantage of the café that serves hot and cold food and beverages of all sorts, including adult ones. Take a look at the substantial menu.

What is the most scenic train in New Zealand? View of New Zealand's Coastal Pacific train

Photo: Great Journeys New Zealand

There are three scenic passenger train journeys available in New Zealand: the TranzAlpine, the Coastal Pacific, and the Northern Explorer. The TranzAlpine, which runs from Christchurch to Greymouth and crosses the Southern Alps, is often said to be the most scenic, but the Coast Pacific isn’t far behind. While running along the South Island’s eastern coast from Christchurch to Picton, passengers will get to admire the Canterbury Plains, the vineyards of Blenheim, and the Pacific Ocean and its wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales.

No matter what scenic passenger train journey you choose to ride while in New Zealand, you’ll get unobstructed views of the landscape; all the trains are fitted with large windows and skylights. The trains are also equipped with open-air cars for an outside experience while remaining on the move.

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Published on September 05, 2023 16:00

Burning Man 2023 Was a Flooded Mess. Here’s What It Looked Like on the Ground

A week ago, those not attending Burning Man might have been jealous at the prospect of seeing pictures and videos of the event. Now, non-festival goers are likely breathing a sigh of relief to be as far away from the Black Rock Desert as possible. The weeklong festival in the Nevada desert, known for its focus on art installations, self-reliance, and symbolic burning of a huge wooden effigy, is held every year in early September. This year, however, the event degenerated into chaos when heavy rains pounded the desert all weekend, turning the sand into a muddy and unnavigable clay. What did that mean for festival goers? Since roads in and out of the desert were rendered impassable, about 70,000 people were stuck at the event.

@itsmechelsealeigh Its dumping rain here on the playa isnt going to stop for…days? #burningman #theburn #rainingman #sendhelp #rain #storm #hurricane ♬ original sound – Chelsea Leigh

In what looks like a scene from Independence Day, the closed roads spawned what might be the worst gridlock you’ve ever seen. For days, tens of thousands of festival attendees were ordered to shelter in place, and to conserve food, water, and other provisions during the duration of the road closure. Since the event site is located about 15 miles from the nearest small town, and 110 miles from Reno, the nearest city, it’s not exactly a quick trip back to civilization. Some tried to make it back before the roads closed, but didn’t make it far, with many spinning out of control and blocking lanes.

@__tiktokdetective__ Burning Man Update for Sunday September 3rd. Its supposed to rain again today. Some people seem to be making the best of it while others are trying to leave eventhough they have told them to stay in place. Burners gonna have to figure it out #burningman2023 ♬ Quirky Suspenseful Indie-Comedy(1115050) – Kenji Ueda

Usually during the week of Burning Man, social media is inundated with photos of crazy art installations and revelers in elaborate costumes. This year, it’s all about the rain-induced turmoil.

@shoddylynn The playa isnt really providing this time… #burningman2023 ♬ Such a Whore (Baddest Remix) – JVLA

@thetalkofshame
Burning Man has reportedly been declared a national disaster due to the rain and National Guard is on the way according to former RHOC friend of Dr Deb who is there!

♬ original sound – Kiki Monique

@ninja_natalie #BurningMan2023 ♬ this feeling – Øneheart

While many videos depict the seriousness of the situation – indeed, one person even died of undisclosed causes – some manage to inject humor into an otherwise humorless circumstance.

@hikingwithkoda #burningman2023 #fyp #burningman ♬ original sound – SpongeBob background music

Despite the chaos, people are leaning on each other to make the best of a bad situation. “People are taking care of each other,” attendee David Date told Reuters. “We have food. We have provisions. We have shelter. So it’s really kind of a group effort to get through this.”

And it appears they will. On Monday, festival organizers reopened the road leading out of the desert, allowing trapped partygoers to finally escape to safety. Many, however, chose to stay behind. As many as 64,000 people remained on site Monday night to watch the iconic burning of the giant effigy, which had been rescheduled from Sunday night to Monday.

What better way to show resilience, after all, than to fight rainwater with fire?

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Published on September 05, 2023 08:53

I Found the Best Caribbean Hotel for Anyone Who Loves Awesome Pools

One of the best things about working remotely is the ability to be, well, remote. And while some people have full home office setups and need the stability of working in the same place every day, as a travel writer, all I really need is my laptop. So when I had the chance to travel to the Caribbean recently, I decided to add on a few extra days of scuba diving and working remotely on St. Maarten, to the east of the Virgin Islands. Given that my direct flight from the East Coast was only $250, and hotel rooms in St. Maarten’s off season start around $100 per night, it seemed like a great choice.

Photo: Suzie Dundas

After looking at various hotel websites, I landed on a great pick: Divi Little Bay Beach Resort, a super-pretty hotel on a private cove near the city of Philipsburg. I’m glad I picked it for several reasons, but the number one reason I chose it will be obvious once you see the property: pools on pools on pools. I think between the pools and the ocean, I spent more time in the water than out of it.

The many, many pools of Divi Little Bay Beach Resort

It may sound weird as a scuba diver, but I don’t really like swimming in the ocean. I’ve gotten so used to being below the surface and being able to see everything around me that being at the surface is almost unnerving. And, laptops and beach sand don’t mix very well, which is why I generally prefer to relax by pools on vacation, rather than beaches. And boy, does Divi St. Maarten have pools.

No matter where you stay, in a classic hotel room or in the higher-end Oceans at Divi Little Bay rooms, you have access to all the pools across the property. There are no extra costs to use beach chairs, covered sun beds, pool beds, or anything along those lines.

A sunset-view infinity pool divi st maarten infinity pool

Photo: Suzie Dundas

I thought this was the best pool, and not just because it also tended to be the least busy. It’s built into a cliff and has gorgeous views of Little Bay. Plus, the area just to the left (that you can see in the above photo) is a protected pelican reserve, which means you can chill at the edge of the pool and watch massive pelicans swoop for fish off the ocean. It also had excellent sunset views and enough loungers for the few people I saw there at any given time.

A two-level ocean view pool

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The pool in the middle of the resort I found to be a great place to work outdoors. The pool has sun chairs on the side facing the ocean and a covered area with tables on the opposite side, making it a convenient place to pull out my laptop while drinking a half-price happy hour cocktail. The main pool area is the largest, though there’s a raised section (not shown above) with another half-dozen chairs. In my days there, it seemed like adults used the top section while the middle section was more of a mix, age-wise.

The beach lagoon pool divi st maarten beach lagoon pool

Photo: Suzie Dundas

Okay, so this one is technically a beach, but it felt more like a pool. Divi St. Maarten sits on a big bay (called Little Bay), so all of it is fairly calm and protected from swells. But there’s a smaller area off the main bay with a rock wall that forms a shallow pool, making it an ideal place to sit in the water — with or without a cocktail, your choice — and not have waves splash you in the face. The rocky area also makes for an excellent place to snorkel when the tide is in, and it’s not unusual to see sea turtles coming near that area, too.

The massive “Pure Ocean Pool” divi st maarten pool loungers

Photo: Suzie Dundas

The biggest and, for most people, probably best pool is what Divi St. Martin calls the Pure Ocean pool. And it’s enormous. The top tier is a wide infinity pool with a giant hot tub, with plenty of sun loungers and a half-dozen round outdoor beds surrounding it. It flows downhill to probably the best pool: a round pool with a swim-up bar, a dozen partially submerged sun loungers, and a fire pit and seating area on an island in the middle of the pool. From there, it flows down to the biggest pool on property, surrounded by sun loungers with views of the beach and ocean.

This pool’s swim-up bar is the only bar on property that doesn’t offer happy hour, which is probably to be expected as I never saw it empty.

Other perks of Divi St. Maarten

I looked at a few hotels in St. Maarten that were near scuba dive shops and I’m glad I picked Divi Little Bay Resort for a few significant reasons:

Wildlife is abundant parrot at divi st maarten

Photo: Suzie Dundas

The hotel is next to Fort Amsterdam, a historic site with a good walking trail and historical signage. It’s also a pelican sanctuary, and there are a few paths cut into the cliffside that lead to picnic benches and clearings where you can get a great view of the giant birds. Fort Amsterdam (and Divi St. Maarten) are both home to tons of iguanas, so there are plenty of opportunities to see tropical creatures — including a parrot, who seems to hang around the beachside Gizmo’s Grille.

The one place I didn’t notice any wildlife is the one place I don’t want wildlife: my room. I didn’t notice a single bug, lizard, or mosquito in my room, which is quite the accomplishment for a hotel in a tropical destination. And while the hotel isn’t on a reef, there are still tropical fish and sea turtles in the bay just offshore.

The dining situation is as good as it gets

When you stay at Divi St. Maarten, you have the option of adding an all-inclusive dining package, but it’s not required. I didn’t do the all-inclusive, but still ended up eating most of my meals on property, since I was spending the afternoons working remotely after diving in the mornings.

The resort has eight bars and restaurants; they’re a mix of casual and sit-down, with a walk-in coffee shop, too. There’s also an on-site convenience store with everything from wine and beer to pasta, snacks, sunscreen, and breakfast foods, so you don’t have to walk to Philipsburg to find a store.

That said, I walked to Philipsburg three times while I was staying there to check out the beach and try a few restaurants. The walk takes about 15 minutes and you can easily get a taxi back to Divi St. Maarten if you walk there in the afternoon but don’t want to walk back after dark.

There’s great diving and snorkeling in the bay

Photo: Suzie Dundas

The resort sits on Little Bay, which is an excellent place for snorkeling and diving. You can rent snorkel gear from the resort’s on-site activity partner (Aquamania), or book a morning dive excursion. Dive boats pick up from the resort’s dock, so it’s basically like door-to-door diving service. In the bay, there’s an underwater sculpture garden, plus several intentionally sunk wrecks, including a sunken passenger plane and sunken helicopter. The water is shallow (averaging about 40 feet) so you can snorkel or dive above the wrecks and still see them perfectly. There’s also an Aquamania store on property where you can get beach-related items you forgot, like water shoes, floaties, sunshirts, and more.

The staff are super friendly

Shout out to the staff at Divi St. Maarten, who genuinely seemed pretty rad. The front desk agent pulled some strings to get me into my room early (and let me use a guest lounge while waiting) and the woman working at the on-site convenience shop offered to set aside a few mangos for me when they came in, knowing it was the end of the season and they’d likely go quickly.

The resort also hosts a Monday night welcome party, which is as cheesy as it gets, but also fun and lively. There’s live music, complimentary fruity cocktails, and raffles for items like passes to area attractions and giveaway items from local artisans. They also use the welcome party as a place to introduce staff you may see around the resort; to me, this shows a genuine desire on the part of resort management to make sure all the behind-the-scenes staff are acknowledged and thanked.

The welcome party is also a good place learn about activities throughout the week for visitors, including free walking tours of Philipsburg, crab races on the beach, cocktail making classes, and more. And while programmed resort entertainment isn’t usually my thing, it was hard not to cheer for the grey-haired retirees trying to win a bottle of wine by doing their best “cupid shuffle” next to teens and 20-somethings.

It’s pretty as can be St Maarten hotel on the bay

Photo: Suzie Dundas

In my opinion, giant resort complexes on popular tourist islands aren’t usually the prettiest hotels. They’re convenient for dive trips, which why I’ve stayed at more than a few. But Divi Little Bay Resort St. Maarten is genuinely downright lovely. The resort is covered in palm trees and tropical plants, the white-sand beach is extremely clean and bordered by rocky cliffs on either side, and the fact that the water is that perfect shade of Caribbean blue certainly doesn’t hurt.

Most of the buildings are orange and pink, adding a pop of color to contrast the blues of the ocean. And at night, the entire bay lights up with shades of pink and orange. I spent one night sitting on the resort’s pier watching the sun go down and it was one of the prettiest sights of my entire two-week trip.

Divi St. Maarten is surprisingly affordable Fried plantains

Photo: Suzie Dundas

I was quite surprised when I saw the summer starting rates at Divi St. Maarten. Busy season in St. Maarten is mid-December through March, and during that time, prices go up. But in the summer, rates start in mid $100s. And in my opinion, slow season is the best time to go: the resort restaurants and pools are less crowded, beach chairs are always available, and the waits and restaurants and attractions on the island are minimal. At Divi, standard hotel rooms start around $150 a night and the suites (which have kitchens and laundry) start around $300 a night (but can sleep four people).

No matter when you visit, you’ll probably find Divi St. Maarten’s food prices to be pretty reasonable. Granted, I live in an expensive area of the country, but I still find $8 for a cocktail (or $4 during happy hour) to be a pretty reasonable price for a beachside resort. My personal favorites were the fried plantains ($9) from The Shack and, kind of surprisingly, the veggie pizza from the open-air pizza grill ($19), which was big enough for several meals. I also bought a lot of snacks from the on-site shop, which was generally cheaper than my local 7-11 in northern California.

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Published on September 05, 2023 08:47

These Ecodomes in Morocco Make You Feel Like You’re in Star Wars

When you think about visiting Morocco, you’re probably thinking about staying in riad. Although riads are undeniably pretty cool, it’s worth going outside the box and checking out this ecodome in Essaouira. Les Jardins de Villa Maroc, surrounded by Argan and Tuya trees, is a county guesthouse with 11 stylish and eco-friendly “ecodomes.”

@epic.stays Hotel details Les Jardins De Villa Maroc in #Essaouira #Morocco IG: @erikaexplores #traveltiktok #moroccotravel #budgettravel #sustainablehotel ♬ PRETTY BOY FLOW – STURDYYOUNGIN

The hotel’s architecture is a reflection of the country’s rich history and culture. Each room is uniquely designed with traditional Moroccan decor, including authentic furniture, rich colors, and intricate patterns. The villa also has a stunning outdoor pool and luxurious spa. One of the main attractions of Les Jardins de Villa Maroc is its beautiful gardens. The villa is surrounded by lush greenery, exotic plants, and aromatic flowers, making it an ideal place to relax.

Eco-consciousness is at the heart of the villa’s philosophy. The hotel buys local, takes special care not to waste food, employs local workers, and uses renewable energy. The ecodomes themselves are based on a sustainable architecture model, built from local materials using only what can be found in the surrounding region. The round design are naturally anti-seismic and autonomous in energy.

There’s also plenty to do around the hotel, including traditional Moroccan cooking classes, yoga retreats, hiking, horceback riding, and going into the city of Essaouira itself for a cultural tour.

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Published on September 05, 2023 07:34

The Best Hotels in Shanghai To Experience High-End Hospitality

Shanghai is known for its forest of skyscrapers with the world’s third-largest megatower leading the charge. Travelers wary of heights will find a medley of things to do at ground level including the historic waterfront, trendy Xintiandi, and the ancient Yu Garden. In terms of where to stay in Shanghai, the city is a playground of high-rise luxury hotels with infinity pools, rooftop bars, and awesome skyline views. The best hotels in Shanghai, China, are near or within eyesight of The Bund.

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We hope you love these Shanghai hotels! 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.

The Peninsula Shanghai

Photo: Booking

See more photosAddress: 32 Zhongshan Dong Yi Road, No 32 The Bund, Shanghai, 200002, ChinaRates from: $331/night

Situated at the north end of The Bund, the views from the Peninsula’s rooftop bar are tough to beat. Signature sips range from smoky mezcal libations to floral tipples. This popular hangout backs onto the Michelin-starred restaurant although deeper pockets warrant a private dining cruise on the hotel’s latest plaything – an Azimut 47 yacht.

Sumptuous upholstered beds are the centerpiece of the deluxe rooms while chic salons peek over the river or garden. Head to the Art Deco bathhouse where the heated pool is flooded in natural sunlight. As one of the best 5-star Shanghai hotels for families, the Peninsula Academy invites kids to try their hand at chocolate-making.

Fairmont Peace Hotel Shanghai

Photo: Booking

See more photosAddress: 20 Nanjing Road East, Shanghai, 200002, ChinaRates from: $234/night

Standing out among luxury Shanghai hotels near The Bund, the Fairmont Peace Hotel Shanghai is an Art Deco masterpiece topped with an emblematic emerald roof. Chocolate box rooms with floral carpets connect to elegant bathrooms with clawfoot tubs. The cream of the crop, the Nine Nation Suites are styled according to Chinese, Indian, English, American, French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, or German modes.

A dip in the indoor pool followed by a cocktail in the Jazz Bar is your antidote after a busy day exploring the sights. For sweeter palates, traditional high tea is served daily in the Jasmine Lounge.

PuLi Hotel and Spa Shanghai

Photo: Booking

See more photosAddress: 1 Changde Road, Jing’An District, Shanghai, 200040, ChinaRates from: $273/night

An urban sanctuary steps from Jing’An Temple, the ultra-glam PuLi is the leading 5-star spa hotel in Shanghai. Rooms accented with dark wood and creamy window couches are at their most bewitching once dusk falls. Slip behind the silk partition and you’ll find a sandsoap tub that’ll persuade you to forgo a perfunctory shower for a bubble bath.

Continue your wellness journey at the UR Spa where rituals are performed using organic products. The indoor pool is in a prime spot for eyeing up the greenery of Jing’An Park and Champagne at the Garden Terrace is a must.

Bulgari Hotel Shanghai

Photo: Booking

See more photosAddress: No 33. North Henan Road, Shanghai, 200085, ChinaRates from: $621/night

Around the corner from the Yu Garden, the Bulgari Hotel brings a touch of Italy’s Dolce Vita lifestyle to the streets of Shanghai. Fashionable rooms with an electrifying perspective of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower are trumped only by The Bund views exclusive to the penthouse suites. All units are stocked with a doggy bag of bespoke grooming products by the luxury brand.

One of the best luxury hotels in Shanghai for al fresco grazing, the candlelit rooftop bar La Terrazza is the star of the show. The heated pool is fringed by an interior garden and Balinese beds.

Wanda Reign on The Bund

Photo: Booking

See more photosAddress: 538 Zhong Shan Dong 2nd East Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, 200010, ChinaRates from: $234/night

Perhaps the most outrageous boutique hotel in Shanghai, the Wanda Reign on The Bund is at the south end of the historic waterfront. With less than 200 rooms, it’s an intimate affair where domains are lavished with stained glass bathroom walls, custom silk murals, and taps encrusted with crystals.

If you end up in a room without a massage chair, nip down to the spa and you can deal with sore muscles in the hydrotherapy suite. The over-the-top decor follows suit in the ritzy pool area and Gastby-inspired bistros and lounges revolving around afternoon tea, oysters, Champagne, and sake cocktails.

Andaz Xintiandi Shanghai

Photo: Booking

See more photosAddress: 88 Songshan Road, Shanghai, 200021, ChinaRates from: $185/night

The first Andaz by Hyatt property to open on the Asian continent, this trendy hotel blends in perfectly with the equally hip Xintiandi neighborhood. Contemporary rooms at the Andaz Shanghai are rigged with customizable mood lighting and window walls for drinking up the urban scenery. Bathrooms feature heated flooring, stone-clad waterfall showers, and glowing tubs.

Avoid cabin fever by grabbing a cocktail or bite to eat at Bleu. Half speakeasy, half zen garden, this laid-back whisky bar captures the spirit of Old Shanghai. Remember to try the signature Kir Royal in the Andaz Lounge.

Jin Jiang Hotel Shanghai

Photo: Booking

See more photosAddress: No. 59 Mao Ming Road, Shanghai, 200020, ChinaRates from: $86/night

Right in the heart of the lively Jing’an District, the Jin Jiang Hotel is equidistant from the namesake temple and People’s Park. Linked by an expansive lawn, the property is spread across the landmark Grosvenor House and the younger Cathay House. Traditionally appointed rooms come with king-sized beds plus a sofa and suites provide additional living space for families.

The Jin Jiang is one of the best hotels in China’s coastal city for Old Shanghai vibes. A daily buffet is laid out in a carpeted banquet room while the lobby lounge is furnished with antique tomes. Remember your swimwear if you want to take advantage of the indoor pool.

Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel

Photo: Booking

See more photosAddress: 159 South He Nan Road, Shanghai, 200010, ChinaRates from: $140/night

Named for its location near the Old City, the Renaissance Yu Garden Hotel is one of the best hotels in Shanghai for digging into the city’s history. The Yu Garden, City God Temple, and Old Town Bazaar are minutes from the lobby and there’s even a free shuttle to spare your feet.

Bright, modern rooms peer over The Bund while superior suites feature separate living areas and freestanding baths. The indoor infinity pool hogs the limelight with its city panoramas. A string of restaurants serves a mix of Chinese, Japanese, and Western dishes as well as cocktails at Yu Bar.

Regent Shanghai Pudong

Photo: Booking

See more photosAddress: 210 Century Avenue, Pudong District, Shanghai, 200120, ChinaRates from: $236/night

Settled amid the bright lights of the Lujiazui business district, the sky-high pool at the Regent Pudong is the hotel’s pride and joy. At arm’s length from the tallest building in China, the pool complex and all units at this 5-star Shanghai hotel feature window walls skimming the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and Huangpu River.

Easily the wackiest wellness pursuit in the city, Flare Spa performs golf ball massages. Seeing as dwelling in the clouds can play havoc with your O levels, there’s no need to feel guilty about splurging on an oxygen facial while you’re there.

Novotel Shanghai Clover Hotel

Photo: Booking

See more photosAddress: Building No 1, Lane 3188, Xiupu Road, Pudong, Shanghai, 201315, ChinaRates from: $89/night

Only a five-minute drive from the park, the Novotel Clover Hotel is the best Shanghai hotel near Disneyland. In addition to a complimentary airport and resort shuttle bus, the property offers free parking while Downtown Shanghai is a metro ride away.

Post-outing amenities include a seasonal rooftop pool with sun loungers, a full-service spa, and room service. Not only are there family rooms and extra infant beds but the facility also has a playground where younger kids can use up any surplus energy. Thanks to the rocket-speed maglev train, there’s little need to book an airport hotel in Shanghai but this place is just 20 minutes away by taxi.

What is Shanghai known for?

Although its glossy skyline steals the show, Shanghai has just as many cultural sights as Beijing – not to mention a phenomenal culinary scene. When chewing over what to do in Shanghai, scoot the following activities at the top of your agenda.

Stroll the historic waterfront at The Bund (Waitan)Calm your mind at Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden)Visit Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian templesFeel your ears pop riding the Shanghai Tower elevatorExperience the VR Roller Coaster at the Oriental Pearl TV TowersPeruse ceramics, jades, bronzes, and clothing at the Shanghai MuseumFeast your way around the Xintiandi lifestyle quarter while admiring the Shikumen architectureExplore the ancient, floating towns of Qibao and ZhujiajiaoOgle the futuristic Lujiazui cityscapeTake the kids (or yourself) to Shanghai DisneylandEat your body weight in xiao long bao (soup dumplings)Spend your leftover yuan on Nanjing RoadBrave the Maglev Train – the fastest train in the worldHow big is Shanghai?

Although geographically smaller than Beijing, Shanghai is the most populated city in China with a population above 29,000,000. The following hotels in Shanghai put you near all the major sights.

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Published on September 05, 2023 06:00

September 4, 2023

The Best Rajasthan Airbnbs Throughout the Blue City, Jaisalmar, and Jaipur

Rajasthan, India’s largest state, is a realm of sand dunes interrupted by silvery lakes and fort-studded cities. Flush with rose-colored palaces, the capital, Jaipur, is better known as the “Pink City”. Home to North India’s finest fort, the westerly “Blue City” of Jodhpur places you at the edge of the Thar Desert. Any odyssey in the “Land of Kings” calls for calm accommodations where you can catch your breath between sights and excursions. Ranging from palace stays to earthen homes, these are the most unique Airbnbs in Rajasthan for experiencing the city, desert, and lakes.

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We hope you love these Airbnb Rajasthan vacation rentals! 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.

Blue City Airbnbs in Jodhpur, Rajasthan

The Blue City of Jodhpur is a city in the Thar Desert of the northwest Indian state of Rajasthan. It is known for its 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort, which overlooks the walled city, where many buildings are painted the city’s iconic shade of blue.

The exact reason why the city is painted blue is unknown, but there are several theories. One theory is that the blue color was chosen to reflect the clear blue skies of the desert. Another theory is that the blue color was meant to ward off evil spirits. Still another theory is that the blue color was a way for Brahmins, the highest caste in the Hindu religion, to identify their homes. Whatever the reason, the blue color of Jodhpur is one of its most striking features. The city is a popular tourist destination, and visitors from all over the world come to see its unique beauty.

Stay near the Old City and experience the traditional face of Rajasthan in Jodhpur. Visit Mehrangarh Fort to take in the sea of blue and connect with Bishnoi tribes on a day trip. And, in case you were wondering, those snug riding breeches really did hail from this part of the world.

Rajasthan luxury Airbnb with pool and chef

Photo: Airbnb

See more photosHowever long you’re planning on spending in the Thar Desert, you’ll want to double it once you check into this beauty. The Charcoal wing at Casa Concreto comprises three boutique bedrooms with eco-chic en suites whereas smaller groups can book the Cloud. Guests share the pool, hot tub, bar, games room, and sports gear. The house chef prepares delicious vegetarian meals to order while bonfires and movie nights in the home theater can be arranged on the house. Friends, couples, and groups alike will feel right at home at this stunning retreat.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $301 per night

Historic Rajasthan villa in Jodhpur

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos This splendid sandstone mansion was built to mirror its regal neighbor, the Umaid Bhawan Palace. Step out onto the terrace and you’ll catch the dome. In addition to three large king-sized bedrooms, additional guests can bed down on the couches. The modern residence features a top-of-the-line kitchen and air conditioning throughout – essential during the city’s searing summers. One of the most family-friendly Airbnbs in Jodhpur, there’s a lawn for the kids and a lovely caretaker close by to assist with anything you need.

Twelve guests, four bedrooms
Price: $133 per night

Comfortable room in a boutique hotel with fort view

Photo: Airbnb

See more photosRight in the heart of the Old City, this family-run guest house comprises just nine suites perfect for solo travelers and couples. The king-sized bedroom comes with a private bathroom and sheltered balcony. Visible from the roof terrace, Mehrangarh Fort is a 15-minute climb from the lodge. The host can arrange pick-up from Jodhpur Junction plus camel safaris and cultural excursions to the outlying Bishnoi villages. Afterward, fill your tummy with Northern Indian and Nepalese home-cooked fare at the rooftop restaurant.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $31 per night

Modern apartment near Jodhpur Airport

Photo: Airbnb

See more photosClose to the airport, train station, and Old City attractions, this two-bedroom, two-bathroom rental home covers all bases. Both rooms are laid out with a snuggly queen-size bed plus ample storage and a Smart TV. The fitted kitchen wraps around a breakfast bar and comes with every appliance you can think of: washing machine, oven, dishwasher, and even air fryer. Easily one of the best Rajasthan Airbnbs for a longer stay.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $47 per night

Rajasthan Desert Airbnbs in Jaisalmer

The “Golden City” of Jaisalmer sits 175 miles west of Jodhpur and is another gateway for wilderness adventures.

Earthen home Airbnb in Rajasthan’s Thar Desert

Photo: Airbnb

See more photosSwitch off your cell, swap Wi-Fi for real talk, and hand yourself over to the elements at this unforgettable homestay near Jaisalmer. Each hut is simply appointed but warm and cozy while shared meals are prepared over a wood fire. Camels, goats, and cows roam freely on the farmland and the star-gazing potential is unreal. Upon booking, the host will be in touch to arrange a Jeep transfer and chat about how you’d like to spend your time in the desert.

Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $12 per night

Heritage haveli close to Jaisalmer Fort

Photo: Airbnb

See more photosIf you prefer your creature comforts after dark, retire to this 500-year-old haveli mansion in Jaisalmer. Located within the walled city, the terrace grants a priceless view of the fort. Bare walls display the foundations of the castle while vivid fabrics add warmth to the three chambers. Despite the medieval decor, the rental is fully equipped with Wi-Fi and air conditioning. Palaces and bazaars are steps from the rental and the host can advise about day trips to the dunes and remote villages.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $97 per night

Pink City Airbnbs in Jaipur, Rajasthan

Overflowing with palaces and temples, Jaipur’s rosy makeover came in preparation for a visit from Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria. These Airbnbs will welcome you to the hectic state capital like royalty.

Exclusive palace stay in the Rajasthan capital

Photo: Airbnb

See more photosThere’s 5-star luxury, and then there’s palace-level luxury. Cradled by the Aravali Hills, this 250-year-old villa mingles Rajputana and Mughal architecture and design. Sumptuous bedrooms are outfitted with chandeliers and velvet quilts while TVs have been forfeited for artworks and trinkets. Cool down in the private swimming pool and enjoy al fresco suppers overlooking the gardens and lawns from the terrace. Breakfast is complimentary and additional meals may be arranged with the castle chef.

Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $422 per night

Jaipur Airbnb with private pool near Amber Palace

Photo: Airbnb

See more photosInspired by Noah’s Ark, this bespoke villa sits amidst the Aravali Hills north of Rajasthan’s capital. Interiors balance whimsy and practicality through an old-world aesthetic mixed with all the mod-cons you could think of. The outdoor pool and its adjacent wet bar are the pièce de résistance while traveling chefs can cook up a storm in the gourmet kitchen. Wildlife safaris are available down the road at the Nahargarh Biological Park.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $379 per night

Artist’s studio in India’s Pink City

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos This homestay Airbnb in Jaipur is installed above an art gallery in the tourist core of Rajasthan’s capital city. Once used as a sculpture workshop, the unit showcases an assortment of tools and creations made at the hands of the host family. The suite has a private bathroom and a beautiful terrace. As there’s no kitchen, you’ll have to take one for the team and get acquainted with the local restaurants. Swing by the family studio for a cup of tea and they’ll tell you where to go.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $30 per night

City of Lakes Airbnbs in Udaipur, Rajasthan

The south Rajasthan city of Udaipur is set around a series of artificial lakes. Choose downtown accommodation close to gardens and bazaars or stay further out for sky gazing and hiking.

Lakefront villa rental with hot tub and premium views

Photo: Airbnb

See more photos This marvelous villa in Udaipur stands on Ambavgarh Hill in a quiet, residential neighborhood overlooking Lake Swaroop Sagar and the mountains. Each of the suites functions like a private residence, making this one of the best Rajasthan Airbnbs for groups of couples or multiple families. Furnished patios at varying levels maximize the scenery while your muscles will relish a nightly dip in the hot tub. Couples and smaller groups are welcome to book one unit at the villa and share the communal facilities.

Twelve guests, five bedrooms
Price: $219 per night

Rajasthan farm stay Airbnb with lake views

Photo: Airbnb

See more photosSuck up the fresh mountain air and feast your eyes on the greenest part of Rajasthan at this lakeside family villa 30 minutes from Udaipur. Located on an organic farm nestled on the shores of Badi Lake, the vacation home has an infinity pool, kids’ playground, and a barbecue area. Designed for a family, the second bedroom contains a triple bunk bed. The host will point out local hiking trails and arrange for private chef services if required.

Eight guests, two bedrooms
Price: $101 per night

Where is Rajasthan?

Rajasthan is a landlocked state in northwestern India bounded by Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab. The India-Pakistan border edges the west of Rajasthan.

How big is Rajasthan?

Covering just over 10 percent of the country, Rajasthan is the largest state in India geographically and the seventh-largest by population. Jaipur is the capital while Jodhpur, the seat of the state high court, is the second biggest city.

How far is Rajasthan from Delhi?

Delhi, the National Capital Territory (NCT), of India is located 30 miles northeast of the Rajasthan border. Express trains connect New Delhi with Jaipur in four and a half hours while longer routes can take seven hours. Trains to Jodhpur provide 11 and 12 hours of window gazing.

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Published on September 04, 2023 06:00

September 1, 2023

Warsaw Museums You Need To See on Your Next Visit To Poland’s Capital

Warsaw museums generally fall into two categories: historical and hysterical. Poland’s capital plays host to a surprising number of specialty museums with fun themes ranging from neon signs to Polish vodka (although Zagreb will always be Europe’s niche museum mecca). But for a city as storied as this one, it’s no surprise that the most popular Warsaw museums commemorate Poland’s rich history.

Luckily for visitors, there’s a lot of variety therein, from the Warsaw Rising Museum that chronicles the city’s resistance efforts during World War II to the Fryderyk Chopin Museum that honors one of the country’s foremost artists. If you only have time to see a handful of Warsaw museums, these are the six Warsaw museums to see first (but know that there’s a wealth of specialty museums waiting if you can swing it).

The best Warsaw museums, mapped

POLIN

Photo: Cinematographer/Shutterstock

Located in downtown Warsaw’s Muranów neighborhood, The POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews commemorates the rich and longstanding cultural heritage of Polish Jews. The museum’s core exhibition encompasses a wide range of exhibits, interactive installations, and multimedia presentations that capture more than a thousand years of Jewish history in Poland, from medieval times to the present day. One highlight of the museum is a recreation of the wooden ceiling of the lost 17th-century Gwoździec synagogue that was damaged during World War I and completely destroyed during World War II. Overall, the displays that delve into the Holocaust and postwar Jewish life in Poland are among the most thought-provoking and dialogue-starting exhibitions on offer at the museum.

Address: Mordechaja Anielewicza 6, 00-157 Warszawa, Poland

Hours: Mon 10 AM-6 PM, closed Tues, Wed-Fri 10 AM-6 PM, Sat 10 AM-8 PM, Sun 10 AM-6 PM

Tickets: General admission 45 PLN ($10), reduced ticket 35 PLN ($8.50), groups of 10 or more 30 PLN ($7) per person, students with student cards 1 PLN ($0.25)

Warsaw Rising Museum warsaw-museums

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Located in Warsaw’s modern, commercial Wola district, the Warsaw Rising Museum honors Poland’s resilience and determination during World War II with a focus on the Warsaw Uprising of 1944 — one of the war’s largest underground combat operations. As you navigate through some 30,000 square feet of exhibition space, you’ll encounter an impressive array of multimedia presentations, personal testimonies, and historical artifacts, including photographs, films, and sound recordings that narrate the tales of resistance fighters’ struggle for independence. Best of all, the Warsaw Rising Museum takes a participatory approach to its displays, which generally encourage visitors to engage and interact with the museum’s content.

Address: Grzybowska 79, 00-844 Warszawa, Poland

Hours: Mon 8 AM-6 PM, closed Tues, Weds-Fri 8 AM-6 PM, Sat-Sun 10 AM-6 PM

Tickets: General admission 25 PLN ($6), reduced ticket 20 PLN ($5), guided groups 15 PLN ($3.50) per person

National Museum in Warsaw warsaw-museums

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Warsaw’s National Museum is one of the city’s largest and most significant cultural landmarks, housing over 830,000 exhibits and a world-class collection that spans from antiquity to the present day. The museum’s diverse offerings include ancient Egyptian and Greek artifacts, including a treasure trove of Greek inscriptions that were unearthed during Polish excavations in Old Dongola, as well as a remarkable collection of Coptic textiles that testifies to the intricate craftsmanship of ancient civilizations. Visual artworks, of course, are another focus, notably the pieces on display by famous 19th-century Polish painter Jan Matejko. Beyond its permanent collections, the museum also hosts rotating exhibitions covering topics such as Nordic paintings, Polish female sculptors, and photography retrospectives, as well as educational programs.

Address: Al. Jerozolimskie 3, 00-495 Warszawa, Poland

Hours: Closed Mon, Tues-Thurs 10 AM-6 PM, Fri 10 AM-8 PM, Sat-Sun 10 AM-6 PM

Tickets: General admission 25 PLN ($6), reduced ticket 10 PLN ($2.50), groups of 10 or more 10 PLN ($2.50), youth and students 25 and under 1 PLN ($0.25), free admission for children up to age seven

Copernicus Science Centre warsaw-museums

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Warsaw’s Copernicus Science Centre is positioned on the banks of the Vistula River under the Świętokrzyski Bridge. As one of the largest science centers in Europe, it offers visitors an immersive and interactive journey into the realm of science across six interdisciplinary sections, with over 400 exhibits that are designed to engage visitors in hands-on experiments and explorations. Topics that the exhibits explore range from robotics, to the sensory experiences of animals, to electronics. The science center also hosts a variety of films, shows, and concerts in its planetarium, as well as summer classes that are educational for visitors of all ages.

Address: Wybrzeże Kościuszkowskie 20, 00-390 Warszawa, Poland

Hours: Closed Mon, Tues-Thurs 9 AM-6 PM, Fri 9 AM-8 PM, Sat-Sun 9 AM-7 PM

Tickets: General admission 40 PLN ($9.65) on weekdays and 42 PLN ($10.15) on weekends and holidays, reduced ticket 28 PLN ($6.75) on weekdays and 29 PLN ($7) on weekends and holidays

Fryderyk Chopin Museum museums-warsaw

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Situated within Warsaw’s elegant Ostrogski Palace, the Fryderyk Chopin Museum is a sanctuary dedicated to the life and works of the renowned Polish-born composer Chopin. The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, such as original manuscripts of Chopin’s compositions, personal letters, and belongings — including facsimile editions of Chopin’s “Etude in F minor” and “Impromptu in C sharp minor” that offer an invaluable insight into the creative process of the 19th-century musical genius. The museum also exhibits the archive of Professor Jan Hoffman, a significant collection that encapsulates the history of several music organizations, including the Society of Fryderyk Chopin.

Address: Pałac Gnińskich, Okólnik 1, 00-368 Warszawa, Poland

Hours: Tues-Sun 10 AM-6 PM

Tickets: General admission 25 PLN ($6), reduced ticket 15 PLN ($3.50), groups 20 PLN ($5), reduced group ticket 10 PLN ($2.50)

Museum World of Illusion

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Located in the heart of Warsaw’s Old Town, right on the Market Square, the Museum World of Illusion is an interactive space with educational and entertaining exhibits that challenge perceptions and engage the mind. Visitors are invited to explore over 60 attractions, including mirrors, holograms, and other illusions, each designed to demonstrate how easily our senses can be deceived. The museum encourages hands-on engagement, with visitors able to touch the displays, experiment with the exhibits, and capture memorable photos. The museum is relatively small but well worth an hour of your time as you explore Warsaw’s Old Town, whether you’re traveling with kids or simply have a curiosity about the workings of the human mind.

Address: Rynek Starego Miasta 21, 00-272 Warszawa, Poland

Hours: Mon-Fri 10 AM-8 PM, Sat-Sun 10 AM-9 PM

Tickets: General admission 40 PLN ($10), reduced ticket for youth and students 30 PLN ($7.25), seniors ages 65 and over 32 PLN ($7.75), children ages 3-6 10 PLN ($2.50), free admission for children under three

Where to stay near Warsaw’s museums

Most of Warsaw’s most compelling, can’t-miss museums are concentrated around downtown Warsaw and the city center, from the Old Town to the Śródmieście, Muranów, and Wola areas. Below is a sneak peak at the hotel landscape in central Warsaw — all of which make museum-going and sightseeing in the city easy.

We 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.

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