Matador Network's Blog, page 298
April 26, 2023
Immerse Yourself in Turn-of-the-Century Art Nouveau at This Prague Hotel
Hotel Paris Prague is a luxury hotel with a timeless feel, situated in the heart of Prague’s historic city center. Housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building, this hotel exudes grandeur and elegance; from the moment you enter the lobby, you feel immersed in the city’s rich history and culture. The 5-star hotel dates back to 1904, and has even been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The hotel’s rooms and suites are spacious, beautifully appointed, and equipped with all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable and luxurious stay. They also offer some of the most stunning views in Prague, with windows overlooking the city skyline.
@epic.stays This hotel might just have the best view in #PragueHotel Paris Prague inside the Tower Suite
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#hotelview ♬ Come Prima – Tito Puente And His Orchestra & Abbe Lane
One of the standout features of Hotel Paris Prague is its restaurant, Sarah Bernhardt. This stunning dining room is named after the famous French actress and features original Art Nouveau decor, including intricate lamps, ornate mirrors, and an intrictate ceiling. The restaurant serves up gourmet cuisine made with fresh local ingredients. You can also relax with a cocktail or afternoon tea at Cafe de Paris. Nestled in the historic Art Nouveau atrium of the hotel, Cafe de Paris is a beautiful spot to relax and people-watch. Enjoy their selection of teas or indulge in their signature cocktails, all while taking in the aesthetic grandeur of the space.
The hotel’s location in the city center means that Prague’s best attractions, including Old Town Square, the Charles Bridge, and the Jewish Quarter, are just a short walk away. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, art, shopping, or dining, Hotel Paris Prague is the perfect base for exploring everything the city has to offer.
This River Lodge in British Columbia Is the Perfect Base for Your Next Fishing Adventure
The Fraser River Lodge in Agassiz, British Columbia is a special destination, combining breathtaking natural beauty with luxurious accommodations and unparalleled hospitality. Located just a short drive from Vancouver, this lodge sits in the heart of the stunning Fraser River Valley and offers guests the chance to explore the great outdoors in style.
@epic.stays Just a 1.5hr drive outside of #Vancouver is the
As soon as you step onto the property, you’re greeted by stunning views of Mount Cheam and the winding Fraser River. The lodge itself is a beautiful log cabin-style building that blends seamlessly into its surroundings. Inside, you’ll find cozy fireside lounges, luxurious guest rooms, and a full-service restaurant that serves up gourmet dishes made with fresh local ingredients.
One of the highlights of the lodge is its world-class fishing opportunities. The lodge is situated on the banks of the Fraser River, home to some of the best salmon and sturgeon fishing in the world. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice, the lodge’s experienced guides will help you make the most of your time on the river.
But the Fraser River Lodge is much more than just a fishing destination. The lodge is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding. Guests can also explore the nearby Harrison Hot Springs, which are renowned for their natural healing properties and relaxing atmosphere.
At the end of the day, the Fraser River Lodge is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature. With its beautiful natural surroundings, luxurious amenities, and warm hospitality, it’s easy to see why this lodge is a top destination for travelers looking to experience the best of British Columbia’s outdoor adventures.
9 Fabulous Airbnbs in the Most Underrated Coastal Towns Near Barcelona
Barcelona is one of the most popular beach cities in the world. Because of this, it gets uncomfortably busy, especially in the summer months. Luckily, the Spanish coast is peppered with many underrated coastal towns which are close enough to the city for a cultural day trip, but far enough from the clammer for a relaxing beach vacation with local character. Renting an Airbnb in beach towns near Barcelona gives you everything you need for a European trip without the hefty price tag of a city hotel and the crowds. From the uber-cool town of Sitges to the cliffside village of Blanes, these are the best spots to base yourself if you’d like to visit Barcelona without throngs of tourists.
What coastal towns are near Barcelona?There are plenty of stunning coastal towns just a stone’s throw away from the city. All of the towns listed here are within a short train or drive from the center. Here are some of the best:
SitgesAltafullaCalella de PalafrugelBegurBlanesLloret de MarWe hope you love the Airbnbs in beach towns near Barcelona 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.
SitgesApproximately 24 miles south of Barcelona, this charming town is known for its LGBTQ+-friendly vibes, cultural festivals and events, vibrant nightlife, and stunning beaches.
Ibizan-style design villa
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosThis Ibizan-style design villa has a fantastic location in Sitges. It’s on a very quiet street but very close to everything you need — a five-minute walk to the beach, the center of town, and the train and bus station. There are parking spaces, but the transport links are so superb here that you don’t really need a car to explore the coast.
Outdoor there is a swimming pool, a dining table with a capacity for eight, and hammocks in the garden. The recently renovated kitchen has everything you need to prepare a meal for a group or family, and if you are staying more than six days, you get a complimentary cleaning service included in the price.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $554 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosThis bright and airy one-bedroom apartment has a terrace facing the sea, on the beach of la Ribera. The nearby promenade is an excellent spot for people-watching, and there are numerous little stretches of sand, each with its own vibe — from bustling to secluded. The apartment is ideal for a couple. It’s surrounded by pedestrian streets, which are perfect for romantic evening strolls, and are lined with some excellent seafood restaurants. If you need more space, there is a pull-out couch in the living room which sleeps an extra two guests.
Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $260 per night
Located just 45 miles south of Barcelona, the small beach town of Altafulla is also easily reachable from the city by train or car. The town has a beautifully intact old quarter and a nice sandy beach with a promenade and a few outstanding bars and eateries.
Apartment with oceanfront swimming pool
Photo: Airbnb
With direct access to Altafulla Beach, this spectacular apartment is one of the best Airbnbs in the area for a family or large group. Its sprawling terrace is a perfect place to enjoy long lunches between trips to the beach or evening meals. Views over the ocean can be enjoyed from the living room and the outdoor pool that is surrounded by a lush garden.
Nine guests, five bedrooms
Price: $276 per night
Photo: Airbnb
This two-bedroom apartment is smack-bag on the seafront and comfortably sleeps five in two double rooms and a pull-out couch. It has unobstructed views over the beach and you can literally fall out of bed and land on the sand. The interior is traditional with modern amenities such as an induction hob and stainless steel appliances. On the roof, there is a little suntrap terrace that leads off the main bedroom — a perfect place to enjoy a cold beer and watch the sun set on the horizon.
Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $243 per night
One of the most beautiful and off-the-beaten-path towns near Barcelona, Calella de Palafrugell is home to picturesque beaches and scenic coastal walks.
Home with heated swimming pool and outstanding views
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosCalella de Palafrugell is one of three coastal towns belonging to the municipality of Palafrugell. The historic town has plenty of stunning coves, white sand beaches, and pine forests.
This pretty little house was completely renovated in 2022 and is surrounded by a Mediterranean garden that can be enjoyed from its several terracotta terraces. Regardless of what time of year you are visiting — for winter guests there is a fireplace and a heated swimming pool — this is one the most charming Airbnbs on the coast. There’s plenty of outdoor seating and inside the interior blend of bleached wood, a soft cream color pallet with bold patterned statement walls.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $387 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosSleeping eight with four bedrooms the villa has outstanding views from its floor-to-ceiling walls of windows. Its sleek and modern design is contrasted by leather furniture, a huge cozy L-shaped couch, and snuggly throws. The bedrooms are also flooded with light due to the open-planned layout. The luxury rental is topped off by a 20-meter-long infinity pool that has views over the sea and the pine forest.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $478 per night
Begur is a charming medieval village of cobbled streets, well-preserved historical ruins, and beautiful whitewashed houses that adorn the hillside. Close to the village, you’ll find the breathtaking beaches of Sa Tuna, Sa Riera, and Aiguablava.
Private five-bedroom villaPhoto: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosA restored Catalan villa with breathtaking sea views of Sa Tuna Cove and the Mediterranean Sea, this three-bedroom is one to bookmark. The cove is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and hiking along the rocky coastal path. The villa and private swimming pool terrace overlook the coast and it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring the region. It’s also a great rental if you enjoy grilling. The villa has a traditional outdoor stone and tiled oven and grill area and a charming dining table next to the edge of the water. There’s a second Alfresco table under an enclosed terracotta patio and the internal decor is a luxurious blend of traditional Spanish design and chic minimalism.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $561 per night
Blanes was once a small fishing town, but it has evolved over the years into a modern, dynamic seaside resort. Today, it is a popular destination for a family vacation.
Cliffside house with beautiful sea views
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosA stay at this cliffside house will make your loved ones back at home ridiculously jealous. It’s got it all. A view over Blanes and the ocean and it’s a three-minute walk to the promenade with numerous bars and restaurants. The property boasts a huge garden, four spacious bedrooms, four bathrooms, and an outdoor pool with a Jacuzzi, terrace, and barbecue area. It is a private and tranquil space, that is close enough to nightlife and eateries but secluded so you can enjoy your dream Mediterranean vacation without the crowds.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $690 per night
Lloret de Mar is situated in the southern part of the Costa Brava and is a popular spot for those looking for a bustling nightlife scene.
Luxury villa with with pool and cinema
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosIt’s unlikely you’ll be wanting to spend much time in the villa’s home cinema considering the location in buzzing Lloret de Mar, but the luxurious add-ons to this property make this one of the top listings on the coast. The house sleeps up to sixteen guests and is a short four-minute walk to the beautiful rocky coastline. The 14-meter pool is climatized in winter and there’s a Jacuzzi, epic grilling facilities, and a huge garden with fruit trees. The home is very kid-friendly. On request, a net can be installed on the infinity side of the pool for safety and outside there is a small play house where kids can hang out or sleep overnight if they are feeling adventurous.
Sixteen guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $1,364 per night
April 25, 2023
This Rooftop Bar Has the Best Views in Marrakech
Marrakech is one of the most enchanting cities in Morocco, and one of the best ways to experience it all is from a rooftop. DarDar is one of the top locations in the city to enjoy the beauty of Marrakech from above. With its stunning views, delicious food, and inviting atmosphere, it’s easy to see why this rooftop bar is so popular.
As you step off the elevator and make your way up to the rooftop, the first thing you notice is the view of the city. The bar is situated in the heart of the medina, so you can see everything from the historic buildings and bustling streets to the Atlas Mountains in the distance. Whether you’re looking to relax with a refreshing cocktail or watch the sunset over the city, DarDar Rooftop is the perfect spot.
In addition to the incredible scenery, DarDar Rooftop also offers a diverse menu of Moroccan cuisine with a modern twist. The chefs use fresh, local ingredients to create dishes like tajine and kefta, as well as vegetarian options like couscous and grilled vegetables. You can also indulge in a variety of Moroccan sweets and pastries for dessert, all while enjoying the warm evening breeze and stunning views.
But DarDar Rooftop is more than just a great place to eat and drink. The bar hosts live music events and DJ sets throughout the week, adding to the already lively and welcoming atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to relax with friends or meet new people, all while experiencing the beauty of Marrakech from an unforgettable perspective.
5 Travel Companies Using AI To Create Better, More Personalized Trips
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the travel experience by providing personalized and efficient services. With AI-powered chatbots like GuideGeek, travelers can get immediate assistance when looking for the best places to go, see, eat, and do — as well as help with booking flights, hotels, and car rentals.
Yet in-the-moment trip planning isn’t the only way that AI is reshaping the way people travel. AI can help streamline airport security through facial recognition technology, making the entire check-in process faster and smoother. AI-powered translation apps can bridge language barriers, while smart luggage can help prevent lost bags. Additionally, AI-powered travel recommendation engines can suggest destinations and activities based on travelers’ preferences and past trips.
Overall, AI is changing the way we travel by enhancing convenience, safety, and personalization. These companies are at the forefront, harnessing this new technology as it develops to streamline the travel experience.
GuideGeek@michaelmotamedi Date night in Mexico City controlled by A.I. We let a travel guide A.I tell us what to do for an entire night. We enjoyed some of the best speakeasies in the city. I travel the world and eat a lot of food. If you are into either of those things, I would love if you came a long. #traveltiktok #mexicocity #travellife #foodtiktok #michaelmotamedi #guidegeek ♬ Spanish Guitar for Western Movies or Games – Hanadayama Music Lab
Recently launched by Matador Network, GuideGeek is a personalized AI travel assistant that’s revolutionizing the way people plan their travels. GuideGeek uses cutting-edge AI technology to offer highly customized travel options to its users, making it the perfect tool for any traveler. It’s even being used to plan the perfect date night in places like Mexico City. By chatting with GuideGeek on WhatsApp, you can instantly find and customize your travel plans with features such as hotel and Airbnb recommendations, restaurant and bar suggestions, and personalized itineraries.
Give GuideGeek a try:
Expedia has developed an AI-powered travel booking tool to help streamline and enhance the travel booking experience for users. The tool uses machine learning algorithms to personalize travel recommendations and make smarter booking suggestions based on a user’s search history, preferences, and other inputted information.
The tool can also anticipate potential issues that could arise during a trip and proactively provide solutions to minimize disruptions. For example, if a flight delay or cancellation is predicted based on weather forecasts or historical data, the tool may suggest alternative transportation options or accommodations.
Expedia Powered by AI also incorporates natural language processing technology, which allows users to communicate with the tool using natural language commands and receive relevant travel recommendations in real time. This feature makes the booking process faster and easier for users who may not have the time or expertise to navigate complex travel planning tools without assistance.
Google MapsGoogle Maps uses AI and machine learning to improve its accuracy and reliability on one of the most-used map apps in the world. This is done by using text recognition to identify information like business names and street names in Street View imagery. The text recognition systems can tune out distractions and detect text even when it’s handwritten or abbreviated. This helps Google Maps quickly and accurately create high-quality maps even in places that aren’t frequently traveled. Additionally, Google Maps uses algorithmic detection of businesses to ensure up-to-date information on places of interest by extracting details about a business from its web page. This information is then used to update the business’s information on Google Maps.
KayakKayak’s AI-powered price prediction model for flights is an advanced technological system that considers millions of flight searches and analyses search parameters to anticipate the likelihood of a route’s fare fluctuation. The model develops price forecasts using historical flight data from billions of flight searches and then generates predictions by utilizing algorithmic and mathematical models. The predictions are derived from Kayak’s past search history, and therefore are not entirely perfect, but they have a high likelihood of accuracy. The system works by recommending whether a user should book a flight now or wait, based on the probability of a price change.
DuveDuve is an AI-powered solution launching soon that will allow hoteliers and hosts to quickly and effectively interact with their guests. With DuveAI, you can simplify customer service inquiries to hotels and they can do the same with their response. The tool automatically analyzes every incoming message and summarizes it into one snapshot, giving hotels a big picture of the overall message you sent. By using OpenAI’s ChatGPT-4, Duve is making communication smoother and more personalized, allowing the responses to common questions to continually improve, and giving you as the guest prompter answers to your questions. It’s kind of like those chat bots that already appear on thousands of business websites, but more powerful (because it’s powered by ChatGPT) and optimized specifically for hotels.
BreezewayLet’s say you have a big trip planned that will keep you away from home for a couple of months. While you’re gone, you want to rent the property to cover costs and help you fund your travels. Breezeway is a property care, operations, and messaging platform that offers some powerful artificial intelligence features to assist with its services. The platform uses ChatGPT to power its automation features, including Assist AI, which combines generative AI with deep property profiles to take automation to the next level. With Breezeway AI, you can coordinate, communicate, and verify all the work done at your rental properties with ease.
This Glamping Experience in the Peruvian Mountains Is the Best Way To Visit the Sacred Valley
Located in the heart of the Andes Mountains, in the small town of Maras, Peru, is a getaway that’s ideal for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Just a few hours from the major city of Cusco, the Mountain View Maras are the perfect place to escape from the crowds and explore the stunning scenery of the Peruvian mountains.
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Location: Mountain View Maras in Peru
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This glamping experience gives you the true mountain experience, with an epic view of the surrounding Sacred Valley. It’s the perfect place to stay while hiking in the region, and serves as a great base for exploring Machu Picchu and the other remnants of the Inca Empire.
“The passion for the incredible Andean landscapes and the Peruvian culture have been the main drivers for the creation of Mountain View Experience,” the hotel says. “Enjoying each of the experiences that Peru offers us, connecting with nature and communities, feeling and living the culture that is shared in these lands is undoubtedly our philosophy.”
The Sacred Valley is home to some of Peru’s most incredible natural sights. The valley itself stretches out for over 60 miles, encompassing small villages, rivers, mountains, and terraced fields. One of its most popular attractions is the ruins of Ollantaytambo, which were built in the 15th century as an administrative center for the Inca Empire. Other sites worth visiting include Moray, which features impressive stone platforms arranged in concentric circles; Pisac, a traditional village known for its colorful markets; and Chinchero, which boasts a 17th-century colonial church surrounded by Inca ruins.
The Smallest Country in the World Has Only One Dog and the World’s Largest Church
The smallest country in the world, Vatican City, is also one of the most unique and mysterious. For one, it’s the residence of the Pope, the leader of the Roman catholic Church. But its quirks go beyond playing host to the Holy Father: It has a very small population that averages five deaths and one birth per year; it has only one pet, a dog; it is packed with priceless art and stunning architecture; the entire country is a UNESCO World Heritage site; and its nickname is “The Holy See”. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
Is Vatican City a city or a country?Where is Vatican City located?How big is Vatican City?Does Vatican City have its own passport?Who lives in Vatican City? How big is the population?When was The Vatican Built?Can anyone visit Vatican City?Can you enter Vatican City for free?What to wear in Vatican CityIs the Sistine Chapel in The Vatican?Is there a telescope in The Vatican?What is there to see in The Vatican?Does The Vatican have an army? Who guards The Vatican?Can you get married in The Vatican?What is Vatican Girl?The best hotels near Vatican CityIs Vatican City a city or a country?Photo: muratart/Shutterstock
Vatican City, also known as The Vatican or The Holy See, is indeed an independent country. It was recognized as such on 11 February 1929. It is the world’s smallest independent city-state.
Where is Vatican City located?Vatican City is an enclave within Rome, the capital of Italy. (An enclave is a territory located within another territory and completely surrounded by it.)
More precisely, Vatican City is only 2.1 miles from Rome’s Colosseum and 1.5 miles from the Trevi Fountain.
How big is Vatican City?Vatican City is tiny. It is only 0.17 square miles.
Does Vatican City have its own passport?As an independent country, Vatican City has its own passport. Currently there are only 70 valid Vatican City passports in circulation.
On its cover, the Vatican City passport features the coat of arms of the independent state: Two crossed keys surmounted by the Papal tiara. The same coat of arms can be seen on the country’s flag.
Who lives in Vatican City? How big is the population?According to official statistics, there are 453 inhabitants in Vatican City, including clergy, and staff members and their families. Only 246 of the 453 inhabitants are Vatican City citizens. There are 618 Vatican City citizens in total.
When was The Vatican Built?The architectural wonders found in Vatican City have been built and modified throughout the centuries. In the first century, there was Roman necropolis (where Saint Peter’s tomb is located) on the site and the original St. Peter’s Basilica was built by Roman emperor Constantine in the fourth century. The current basilica was completed in the 17th century. The Sistine Chapel was built in the late 15th century and painted in the early 16th century.
Can anyone visit Vatican City?
Photo: Nakasaku/Shutterstock
Anyone can visit Vatican City as there is no need for a passport or a visa, and St. Peter’s Square is not walled or gated. Visitors do need to go through a metal detector before visiting the sights, however.
Can you enter Vatican City for free?It is free to enter Vatican City, roam around St. Peter’s Square, and visit St. Peter’s Basilica. However, visitors must purchase a ticket to access the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel.
What to wear in Vatican CityTo enter St. Peter’s Basilica and other sacred venues within The Vatican, you must have your knees, shoulders, and midriff covered, and hats must be removed.
Is the Sistine Chapel in The Vatican?The Sistine Chapel is located within Vatican City and requires that you book a ticket to visit. It is recommended to book your ticket online in advance.
Is there a telescope in The Vatican?There is an observatory fitted with a telescope in Vatican City called The Specola Vaticana (The Vatican Observatory). The observatory dates back to the 16th century and is considered one of the oldest astronomical observatories in the world.
What is there to see in The Vatican?The main sights in Vatican City are St. Peter’s Square and St. Peter Basilica, both of which are free to visit. But if you have the time, don’t stop there. Reserve a private tour or book a ticket to see the Vatican Museums, which include the Sistine Chapel, the Raphael Rooms, the art gallery, the Vatican Gardens, the Pontifical Villa and Gardens, and more.
Does The Vatican have an army? Who guards The Vatican?
The Swiss Guards in Vatican City. Photo: Drop of Light/Shutterstock
The Vatican does not have an independent army, but the country is kept safe by two forces: the Italian police who looks after St. Peter’s Square, and the Swiss Guards, an armed force unit that is in charge of protecting the rest of the country and the Pope.
Can you get married in The Vatican?It is possible to get married in St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. A special request must be sent to the appropriate branch of The Vatican government.
What is Vatican Girl?Vatican Girl is a 2022 Netflix documentary about the real-life disappearance of 15-year-old Emanuela Orlandi, a Vatican City citizen and the daughter of a Vatican City staff. She vanished while on her way home after a music lesson in Rome in June 1983 and was never found.
The best hotels near Vatican CityIf you prefer an Airbnb to a hotel, check out Matador‘s curated list of the most fabulous Rome Airbnbs minutes from St. Peter’s Basilica and Vatican City.
We hope you love the spaces and stays 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.
Vatican Style
Photo: Expedia
Photo: Expedia
See more photosThe Vatican Style hotel is a luxurious property located only three minutes away on foot from the entrance to Vatican City and St. Peter’s Square. The hotel is decorated in an elegant and contemporary style that includes LED lights, modern headboards, and in-room hot tubs. There is a large choice of rooms on offer, from standard rooms that sleep two to triple rooms with a balcony that can accommodate four travelers.
Book NowStarhotels Michelangelo
Photo: Expedia
Photo: Expedia
See more photosStarhotels Michelangelo is an elegant property located only nine minutes on foot from Vatican City. All 179 rooms and suites have a sophisticated atmosphere and refined decor — the perfect way to make you feel special. Some rooms have views on the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. There is a restaurant and a bar on site.
9 Dazzling Hong Kong Festivals To See Throughout the Year
Hong Kong is a modern, skyscraper-filled city, but it also has a rich cultural heritage that comes alive through traditional festivals. These events are an excellent opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the city’s history and customs. Hong Kong festivals are celebrated throughout the year, commemorating the seasons, important deities and figures, and more, from Lunar New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival to the Dragon Boat and Hungry Ghost Festivals. These are the Hong Kong festivals any traveler would be lucky to experience.
Lunar New Year
Photo: YIUCHEUNG/Shutterstock
Lunar New Year ushers in the Chinese New Year with a 15-day celebration between late January and mid-February. Festivities include parades, temple fairs, and firework shows, culminating with the Spring Lantern Festival, which is a big event in its own right. In Hong Kong, one highlight is the Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade held in Tsim Sha Shui, Kowloon, where the streets come alive with vibrant floats, marching bands, and lion and dragon dances. Flower markets are another staple of the festivities. Head to Victoria Park in Causeway Bay or Fa Hui PArk in Sham Shui Po to see Hong Kong’s busiest flower markets stocked with good-luck blooms such as peach blossoms, orchids, and tangerine trees.
Mid-Autumn Festival
Photo: Ariyani Tedjo/Shutterstock
The Mid-Autumn Festival has been bringing families together to encourage a successful harvest and bring peace since the early Tang Dynasty in China. It’s one of the most vital annual events in Hong Kong. Round shapes are a symbol of unity that’s represented through mooncakes, a traditional pastry with a thin crust and dense filling that ranges from salted egg yolk to lotus seed or red bean paste. For an extra special experience, head to Hong Kong’s Tai Hang neighborhood to see an epic fire dance. Wherever you go, you’ll be delighted to see lanterns adorning buildings around the city. The Mid-Autumn Festival occurs on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, coinciding with the autumn equinox in September or October.
Dragon Boat Festival
Photo: OSTILL is Franck Camhi/Shutterstock
Seeing dragon boats race across Victoria Harbor is one of the most exciting spectacles to witness in Hong Kong — boats decorated with dragon heads and tails are manned by expert rowers while countless spectators cheer them on against the backdrop of breathtaking skyscrapers. In addition to the dragon boat races, rice dumplings play a significant role in the festival as they’re said to ward off evil spirits. In the fishing village of Tai O there’s also a beautiful water parade where traditional sampan boats carrying deity statues are towed by dragon boats to appease water spirits. Originally celebrated in honor of Qu Yuan, a Chinese poet and statesman, the Dragon Boat Festival also coincides with the summer solstice, taking place on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month in May or June.
Hungry Ghost Festival
Photo: Lee Yiu Tung/Shutterstock
The Hungry Ghost Festival takes place on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, usually between August and September, when ghosts are said to return to the land of the living. During the two-plus-week festival, people in Hong Kong offer food, incense, and other offerings to their deceased relatives to appease their hungry spirits, along with large feasts like the Yulan Festival. People also burn fake money for their ancestors to use in the afterlife. Chinese opera, music, and dance performances are part of the experience. Hong Kong’s Chiu Chow Community’s Yu Lan Ghost Festival is listed on China’s national Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
Hung Shing Festival
Photo: Wang Sing/Shutterstock
Observed on the 13th day of the second lunar month, the Hung Shing Festival honors the god of the South China Sea, a former Tang Dynasty governor whose knowledge of astronomy, mathematics, and geography aided fishermen and merchants, and is even said to have saved many people from natural disasters. Traditional celebrations include Chinese opera performances and weeklong processions. The festivities center on two locations in Hong Kong: Ap Lei Chau, an island with a 240-year-old Hung Shing Temple, and Ho Sheung Heung Village in the New Territories, which dates back about eight centuries.
Buddha’s Birthday
Photo: Sue Martin/Shutterstock
Hong Kong is home to approximately 7.5 million people, more than a million of whom are Buddhist. That makes Buddha’s birthday a big deal in Hong Kong. It’s celebrated on the eighth day of the fourth month according to the lunar calendar, which typically falls in May. Sometimes called the Buddha Bathing Festival, Buddha’s birthday is typically observed by visiting temples to bathe Buddha statues, a ritual that’s said to help cleanse the soul and derives from the legend that baby Buddha was cleansed by nine dragons when he was born. The grandest celebration takes place at the Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island, Hong Kong’s largest island and the site of a famously grand Buddha statue. Bitter green cookies are commonly eaten around Buddha’s birthday, as well, symbolizing triumph over hardship and good things to come.
Cheung Chau Bun Festival
Photo: Wang Sing/Shutterstock
The Cheung Chau Bun Festival is held annually on Hong Kong’s Cheung Chau island during the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, usually in May. The festival began over 100 years ago when the local people prayed to the deity Pak Tai to ward off a plague that had taken many lives of the residents. The most popular feature of the festival is the Bun Tower Climbing Competition, where people scramble to climb a 60-feet tall tower made of steamed kwon kam kee buns to grab as many of them as they can. The climber who brings back the most buns is the winner. In addition to the competition, there are colorful parades, lion dances, and traditional Chinese opera performances throughout the days-long festivities, including piu sik parade where children dress up as deities alongside stilt-walkers and lion dancers.
Tin Hau Festival
Photo: Lewis Tse/Shutterstock
Hong Kong’s Tin Hau Festival honors the birth of Tin Hau, the goddess of the sea, on the 23rd day of the third lunar month, which falls between March and April. Festivities include lion dances, opera performances, and fireworks shows, anchored by visits to dozens of temples dedicated to Tin Hau, among them Hong Kong’s oldest and largest temple, Tin Hau Temple in Joss House Bay. Locals visit these temples to make offerings and ask for better fortune for their families and businesses. One notable event of the Tin Hau Festival is the parade in Yuen Long, a town in the New Territories belonging to a district of the same name.
Hong Kong Arts Festival
Photo: Lewis Tse/Shutterstock
For a more contemporary cultural festival, the Hong Kong Arts Festival is a huge international event that launched in 1973 and spotlights local and foreign artists who specialize in the performing arts, from music to dance. It takes place between February and March. In addition to performances, the festival also hosts educational opportunities such as lectures and workshops. Late March also signals the beginning of the city’s international Art Basel exhibition, which is hosted at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Where to stay to experience best Hong Kong festivalsFestivals in Hong Kong tend to spread throughout the entire city, so there’s always something to see, whether you’re staying on a residential street adorned with beautiful lanterns or are based on a main street near a parade route. These Hong Kong Airbnbs and Hong Kong hotels are a good place to start your accommodation search.
We hope you love these accommodations near the best Hong Kong festivals! 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.
Light-Filled Apartment in Tai Hang
Photo: Airbnb
Located in the Tai Hang neighborhood overlooking Victoria Park, a hub of Mid-Autumn Festival and Chinese New Year festivities, this two-bedroom apartment is well-positioned to experience the best of Hong Kong any time of year, close to restaurants, shops, and public transport.
Two bedrooms, four guests
Price per night: $127
Photo: Airbnb
Hotel ICON is located in the bustling entertainment district of Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon, not far from the Temple Street Night Market. The views from the rooms showcase Hong Kong’s dazzling skyline, especially when it’s lit up during citywide festivities.
Where: 17 Science Museum Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon
Price per night: $195
Photo: Airbnb
This four-bedroom villa on Lantau Island, where the Po Lin Monastery and Big Buddha statue are located, accesses both beaches and hiking trails. You’ll need to walk uphill to reach the three-story building with a rooftop terrace in Pui O village, which is just 20 minutes from the airport and 2.5 miles from the Mui Wo ferry pier when you want to visit Hong Kong Island.
Four bedrooms, six guests
Price per night: $255
The Best Places To Rent Next To Central and Northern California’s National Parks
California is home to nine national parks, with the state’s central and northern regions making for a perfect national parks road trip. Unless you’re camping, arranging accommodations near national parks can sometimes be a hassle, especially the more remote they are. We’ve taken the work out of the equation for you here, with this guide to the best Airbnbs near California national parks in the central and northern part of the state.
We hope you love the spaces and stays 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, and listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Best Airbnbs near Yosemite National Park
Photo: Sopotnicki/Shutterstock
Yosemite National Park is an icon of the American national parks system, among the most stunning in terms of natural grandeur, epic views, and adventure potential. Everyone from climbers to hikers to stargazers comes here in droves, and while you could set up camp, there are many Airbnbs near Yosemite that offer easy access to get there before the crowds.
Loft inside Yosemite, minutes from Badger Pass
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosWe actually misled you with the whole “Airbnbs near Yosemite” thing. This comfortable loft is actually inside Yosemite, eliminating the need to wake up before dawn and rush to the park gates. Not only that, it’s super plush, an entire condo for you and up to five others with the park’s beauty literally right outside the door. For the price, you save yourself commute time, gas, and a whole lotta stress — and when divided among your crew, that cost doesn’t sound so bad after all.
Six guests, one bedroom
Price $200 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosThis micro-cabin is a cross between a backwoods cabin and actual camping. It’s cute and photogenic and even comes with a private bathroom. You’d be hard-pressed to find a more romantic lodging option near Yosemite. You could almost call it “glamping,” if you are into that sort of thing.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $149 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosThis house is where it’s at when it’s time to go all-out. Get the family or crew together, have everyone pack their finest outdoor gear, and secure a few nights in this epic house inside Yosemite. It’s got just about every amenity you could want, from WiFi and a full kitchen to easy access to the park’s highlights.
Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $900 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosIf you’re visiting Yosemite, chances are you are the type of person who has dreamt of owning a mountain house. This is an excellent chance to live that dream, if only for a few nights. The Buckingham Mountain House is a restored cabin on 40 acres, just you and the woods (and the animals). Head into nearby Mariposa for dinner if necessary, but your best bet is to grill on the deck and plot the next day’s adventures in the park.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $254 per night
Photo: Fernando Tatay/Shutterstock
See more photosA stroll in Redwoods National Park is good for the soul, but may be tough on your neck. You might just find your neck stuck in place, eyes fixated upward, after a day staring at the world’s most beautiful, and very tall, trees. Fortunately, you’ll have one of these cozy Airbnbs near the park to come home to. You’ll either be in Klamath, north of the park, or near Trinidad and McKinleyville, south of it.
Klamath riverview apartment
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosLocated within the Chinook RV Resort, this apartment offers picture-perfect views of the woods and the beautiful Klamath River. Getting to Redwoods National Park is a quick jaunt south, and you have the benefit here of a kitchen and restroom, with comfortable beds for up to six people (assuming double-sleepers). And the only noise you’ll hear at night is that of the water rushing over the rocks.
Six guests, one bedroom
Price: $145 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosAll that is epic about Humboldt County can be summed up in this high-end home. The ocean is right there, the breeze blowing off it is cool and salt-tinged, and Redwood National and State Parks are just north. Relax, soak in the hot tub after exploring the park, and experience the best of the NorCal lifestyle. Plus, there’s plenty of hiking nearby to get you warmed up for the park.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $415 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosStay in this quaint McKinleyville cabin just a half-hour south of Redwoods National Park and enjoy town amenities without sacrificing the natural surroundings you came for. The unit is a cozy studio with epic views and combines the best of boast coastal and interior Northern California — the park is not far away at all.
Four guests, studio
Price: $119 per night
Photo: BlueBarronPhoto/Shutterstock
See more photosSequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are adjacent to one another, and have terrain every bit as exciting as Yosemite — as well as the largest tree in the world. To explore both, book an Airbnb in Three Rivers and take advantage of short drives to each park, or slightly further in Lemon Cove or Lindsay where there are more options available.
Private downstairs room and bathroom in Rista Ranch home
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosStaying on a ranch seems appropriate on a national parks trip. This one outside of Three Kings is a short drive from both Sequoia and Kings Canyon, with opportunities for even more adventure onsite. The host offers guided horseback riding, hiking, and cooking, and even has a Sequoia National Park bed set waiting for you once you arrive.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $155 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosAny excuse to stay at a tiny house is a good one, more so when that excuse is two nearby national parks. Located in Lindsay, this tiny home has an adjacent fire pit to chill at, with the inside offering loft sleeping above a small kitchen area and lounge space. The nearby town offers amenities including shopping and dining.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $239 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosIf you need an excellent surprise date night to follow a day at the parks, this is it. The stay is labeled as a “farm stay” but it’s a full-scale luxury, private accommodation on a working farm. Walk with the animals, cook a romantic meal in the modern kitchen, and stare at the stars on the deck. Date night, all planned out for you.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $193 per night
Photo: yhelfman/Shutterstock
See more photosPinnacles National Park is among the state’s three least visited national parks, despite being within a two-hour drive of the Bay Area. It’s a shame this park doesn’t get more attention, given its collection of caves, volcanic rock structures, and incredible hiking. However, this works out well for you, as competition for lodging is far thinner. These are the best Airbnbs near Pinnacles National Park.
Silvio Home at Puma Road Winery
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosWine toasts a good day of adventure as well as anything, and there’s plenty of it here at this private home at Puma Road Winery. You’ll be on the heart of the River Road Wine Trail, with room for four to splurge on a road trip experience as memorable as the park itself. This is the perfect spot to spend a couple nights before or after exploring the park, as it’s in close proximity to Salinas and Monterrey, as well as the Bay Area and central coast.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $342 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosThe closest Airbnb listing to Pinnacle National Park is also the most budget-conscious, coming in at a rate that will allow you and up to three travel companions to splurge on other parts of the trip. Sure, it’s a shared room in a home, but the park is just up the street and you’ll be in the town of Soledad with options for dining, groceries, and last-minute planning before hitting the park.
Four guests, private room
Price: $76 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
See more photosEast of the park, near Mercy Hot Springs, is this historic “telegraph office” on a working dairy farm. After exploring the park, relax to the sounds of stirring animals, gaze up at the expansive views of the surrounding hills and open sky, and spread out around a campfire. WiFi is provided, as is one queen bed.
Two guests, studio
Price: $202 per night
These 10 Nevada Spots Will Blow Your Kids’ Minds
Plan a trip to the Silver State for the whole family, and you’ll all learn something along the way — not to mention have a blast doing it. From the depths of prehistoric times (wooly mammoths, dire wolves, or ichthyosaurs, anyone?) to cutting-edge edu-tainment, there’s sure to be a Nevada encounter that’ll blow your kids’ minds.
These historic sites and museums are chock full of exciting experiences to capture travelers’ imaginations, young and old. So load up the minivan and let’s go!
1. Pinball Hall of Fame — Las Vegas
Photo: Pinball Hall of Fame
Flashing lights, catchy tunes, and jingling bells may make you think of Las Vegas’s endless banks of slot machines, but this is also the vibe at the Pinball Hall of Fame. A passion project started by pinball lover Tim Lansing, the Pinball Hall of Fame showcases hundreds of machines dating from the 1950s through today. Classic favorites, rare finds, and brand-new games all await in “attract mode,” beckoning players to test their skill. Admission is free, but you’ll want to bring plenty of quarters.
Need another reason to visit? You and the kids can feel proud knowing all those quarters are going to a good cause. The Pinball Hall of Fame is a registered nonprofit, with excess revenue used to support the Salvation Army and local charities.
2. Tonopah Historic Mining Park — Tonopah
Photo: Travel Nevada
In the early 1900s, Jim Butler was searching for his lost burro at Tonopah Springs when he stumbled on a piece of ore that kicked off a century of silver mining and put Tonopah on the map. While there’s no active mining in the park today, the area’s rich history and mining lore will captivate kids and parents alike.
The 100-acre park highlights four of the original mining companies complete with restored mining equipment, plus an underground mining tunnel. At the end of that tunnel, thrill seekers will have the chance to step into a steel viewing cage suspended over a 500-foot-deep mining pit. Choose the self-guided walking tour or — with advance reservation — a guided tour on a Polaris UTV.
3. Discovery Children’s Museums — Las Vegas, Reno
Photo: Travel Nevada
A place where play meets learning, the DISCOVERY Children’s Museum in Las Vegas is sure to inspire future artists, explorers, scientists, and engineers. A family could easily spend a full day perusing the immersive exhibits. Take your youngest learners to Toddler Town, create new hands-on projects using 3D printers and laser cutters in the Discovery Lab, and scale the heights of The Summit (a massive, 12-level, 70-foot tower) while exploring the laws of physics.
And you won’t want to miss Nevada’s largest hands-on science center — the Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum in Reno — aka “The Discovery.” Children can unlock clues and secret passwords in Mindbender Mansion, discover art and science in the hands-on project-filled Da Vinci’s Corner, and explore the NASA research and design center.
4. California Trail Interpretive Center — Elko
Photo: Travel Nevada
On the outskirts of Elko lies the California Trail Interpretive Center, an institution that shares the stories of local Indigenous peoples and pioneers who traveled through the area on their journey west. The center is also the starting point for a handful of easy hikes offering stunning views of the Ruby Mountains, South Fork Canyon, and the Humboldt River.
For a fully immersive experience, visit during the annual Trail Days in early summer and enjoy a live reenactment of an 1850s wagon camp.
5. Million Dollar Courthouse — Pioche
Photo: Travel Nevada
Another town built by miners in the 1860s and ’70s, Pioche quickly developed an outlaw reputation. Its rapid growth — thanks to the abundance of silver ore in its mines — came with a high rate of crime and murder, and the construction of the county courthouse and jail was no less lawless.
Political corruption, combined with outlandish interest rates, allowed construction costs to come in at quadruple the intended budget and left the courthouse saddled with debt. As the silver mines became less lucrative, that debt became harder and harder to repay. When it was finally paid off some 65 years later, the total came to a cool million dollars. Today, the Million Dollar Courthouse is open for tours and gives a gander into the town’s (and Nevada’s) wild past. And, despite the building’s hefty price tag, you can visit for free!
6. Lost City Museum — Overton
Photo: Travel Nevada
The site of the Lost City Museum and the surrounding land in Overton was once home to the first people to live in Nevada. Today, the museum’s collection of petroglyphs, pottery, jewelry, and other artifacts will take you back to prehistoric times. Let your imaginations run wild as you and the kids explore the reconstructed pueblos and Native American pit houses to get a sense of what life was like in the years 200-1200 CE.
7. Springs Preserve — Las Vegas
Photo: Travel Nevada
Just west of Downtown Las Vegas, Springs Preserve is a collection of museums, art galleries, and botanical gardens that exhibit Nevada’s natural and cultural history. Snap a family photo standing next to a Shonisaurus popularis — aka ichthyosaur, which happens to be Nevada’s state fossil — or view an atomic explosion at the Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas. Head to Boomtown 1905 for a peek into Las Vegas’s glamorous past, or hit the trails (or the rails) and delve into the preserve’s 110 acres of native habitats, home to iconic Nevadan plants and animals.
8. Nevada State Museum — Carson City
Photo: Travel Nevada
Housed in a piece of living history, the intrigue of the Nevada State Museum Carson City starts with the building itself. A former US Branch Mint, this historic facility is where silver from the Comstock Lode was minted into coins.
Inside, the stories stretch a bit further. You’ll start with the prehistoric — a wooly mammoth fossil discovered in the Black Rock Desert — then investigate Nevada’s mining past, and finally arrive at the present with exhibits showcasing modern state residents like bighorn sheep and sage grouse.
9. The Mob Museum — Las Vegas
Photo: The Mob Museum
Founded by former mayor of Las Vegas and mob defense attorney Oscar Goodman, The Mob Museum offers a real-life look at the history of organized crime — from an insider’s point of view. Interactive exhibits like a crime lab, a firearm training simulator, and an actual distillery help illustrate the story.
Note: While some exhibits might be better suited to teens and adults, children are welcome with a parent.
10. Nevada’s Railroad Museums — Boulder City, Ely, Carson City
Photo: Travel Nevada
The railroad was key to the settlement of the West, and Nevada was no exception. Today, riding the state’s historic railways is one of the most exciting ways to learn about its history.
At the Nevada State Railroad Museum Boulder City, a ride on a refurbished Pullman Coach teaches you about the Boulder Branch line and the railroad’s role in the construction of the Hoover Dam. Let your imagination take you through a day in the life of an employee of the East Ely Railroad Depot Museum as you look at actual payroll ledgers and ticket stamps. This is one of the best-preserved historic railyards in the country. And don’t miss the story of the Virginia Truckee Railroad and how it turned Nevada into the “Silver State,” as told at the Nevada State Railroad Museum Carson City. Be sure to opt for a ride on one of the oldest operating steam engines.
C’mon kids, all aboard for some awesome family vacation memories in Nevada!
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