Matador Network's Blog, page 329
February 24, 2023
Stay at This Luxury Boutique Raid in Marrakesh, Morocco
Marrakesh is brimming with culture, history, and beauty. This bustling metropolis is filled with attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. The Ryad Dyor Riad Marrakech offers guests an experience. This traditional Moroccan riad combines modern design with classic comfort for the perfect Moroccan experience.
The Ryad Dyor is a beautifully restored 17th-century house transformed into a charming and elegant hotel. The hotel features traditional Moroccan architecture, with a central courtyard filled with lush greenery and a beautiful pool. The rooms are spacious and decorated in a minimalist yet luxurious style, with beautiful Moroccan textiles and modern amenities.
@visitRyad Dyor in Marrakesh, Morocco (
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We hope you love the Ryad Dyor! 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.
One of the highlights of the boutique Riad Marrakech is its rooftop terrace, which offers breathtaking views. You can relax here with a cup of traditional Moroccan mint tea or a glass of wine and soak up the beautiful surroundings.
The boutique Ryad Dyor Riad Marrakech also has a luxurious spa, offering a range of treatments using traditional Moroccan ingredients like argan oil and rosewater. You can indulge in the hammam, a traditional Moroccan steam bath, a massage, or take a dip in the hotel’s plunge pool feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.
The Ryad Dyor Riad Marrakech also boasts impressive cultural attractions, such as ancient mosques, traditional markets, and several art galleries. Guests can also explore the nearby Jemaa el Fna square, which houses many street performers and food vendors offering authentic Moroccan cuisine. With so much to see and do within walking distance from Ryad Dyor.
Overall, the Ryad Dyor Riad Marrakech offers a truly unforgettable experience for travelers seeking an authentic Moroccan stay. With its beautiful architecture, delicious cuisine, and luxurious spa, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in Marrakesh’s rich culture and history. 
Kaieteur Falls Is Guyana’s Remote Waterfall That Can Only Be Reached by Plane
Even those who are well traveled in South America may not have been to the small country of Guyana. Well, thanks to Kaieteur Falls, now you have a reason to visit. Located on the Potaro River in Kaieteur National Park, it is an impressive single drop waterfall with a spectacular view. For travelers looking to explore a unique part of the world, and since the waterfalls of Guyana aren’t typically as popular with travelers as those of Brazil or Argentina, you’ll be treated to an off-the-beaten-path sight that few travelers get to experience.
@visitThe astonishing Kaieteur Falls (
by @bokehm0n
Kaieteur Falls is one of Guyana’s most beautiful natural wonders. It was first discovered by a British explorer and geologist named Charles Barrington Brown in 1870, who named it after the Makushi Amerindian Chief Kai. Since then, they’ve been popular with locals and in-the-know travelers, and you may even recognize them from their appearance in several movies, like “The African Queen” and “Romancing The Stone.”
In addition to its Hollywood credits, Kaieteur Falls stands out for several reasons. One of which is its remote location — it’s situated in an isolated area that can only be accessed via airplane or boat rides — which adds to its mystique, as the falls aren’t exactly accessible to travelers without the willpower to venture there. Their size and scale are also impressive — the falls clock in at 741 feet high, which is five times higher than Niagara Falls. Because they’re extremely remote and isolated from most other tourist sites, there isn’t much light pollution around it, which allows for stunning sunrises and sunsets over the falls each day. Lastly, due to its sheer size and powerful force, you’ll find that many birds gather here, and seeing large flocks of birds fly around the falls is almost surreal.
Getting to Kaieteur Falls might be a bit tougher than the average waterfall pull-off in Iceland, but it’s not too daunting and is more than worth it. You can fly into Georgetown and then take a charter flight from Eugene F. Correira International Airport to Kaieteur National Park (about one hour). Once there, simply arrange for a tour guide who will show you around and give you information on the history and wildlife of the area.
February 23, 2023
Palm Beach Resorts on the Water for the Ultimate Luxury Getaway
Located on the Atlantic Coast of Florida, Palm Beach is home to some of the finest resorts in the state, as well as some of Florida’s best beaches. From beachfront hotels with views of the ocean to luxurious spas, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque city. Enjoy a day at one of its many award-winning beaches, explore its vibrant cultural scene or simply relax and take in the stunning scenery – whatever your preference, Palm Beach has it all.
Traveling to Florida? Check out Matador’s Florida accommodations guides:15 beautiful Florida Airbnbs for every type of travelerThe best 11 Airbnbs near Universal StudiosThe 12 best Miami Airbnbs from South Beach to Little Havana8 of the coolest Airbnbs near Disney World, Florida15 beautiful Florida Airbnbs for every type of traveler6 Kissimmee Airbnbs for a multi-generational family Disney tripThese New Smyrna Beach Airbnbs showcase the best of Florida’s central coastThese beachside Airbnbs in Palm Beach, Florida, offer a relaxing getaway
Palm Beach is rich in natural beauty, with pristine beaches and lush tropical forests. The city also boasts a selection of iconic landmarks such as the Flagler Museum and Whitehall, the former residence of Henry Flagler. With a wide range of activities from swimming and snorkeling to exploring its many beautiful gardens, there’s something for everyone here.
For the adventurous type, Palm Beach offers plenty of options for outdoor recreation. From boating and fishing on Lake Worth Lagoon or renting a wave runner on the Atlantic Ocean; there are endless ways to enjoy the city’s crystal clear waters. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, take a parasailing tour and experience breathtaking views from high above. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities at Worth Avenue in downtown West Palm Beach or head over to CityPlace where visitors can enjoy great restaurants, bars and even movie theaters!
We hope you love the Palm Beach Resorts 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.
Top Palm Beach ResortsWhich part of Palm Beach is the best?What is the difference between West Palm Beach and Palm Beach?Is it better to stay in Palm Beach or West Palm Beach?Top Palm Beach ResortsEau Palm Beach Resort & Spa
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
The Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is located on five acres of pristine oceanfront property and offers luxurious amenities such as pools, Jacuzzi, a fitness center, and spa services. Not only does this resort provide guests with breathtaking views from their award-winning restaurant Angle; it also offers a variety of activities such as kayaking, fishing, biking, and more. Guests can also spend some time in the resort’s private garden – a tranquil oasis designed to help promote relaxation and rejuvenation.
Price: From $719 per night
Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Another great option along the coastline of Palm Beach is the renowned Four Seasons Resort. Located right on the Atlantic Ocean, this prestigious property provides its guests with spectacular views and access to endless entertainment including several swimming pools, tennis courts, and a variety of exquisite dining options ranging from casual meals to upscale cuisine. This beautiful property also boasts a number of lavish accommodations including rooms with direct pool access as well as suites that come equipped with full kitchens and plunge pools.
Price: From $680 per night
The Breakers
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
The Breakers is one of the oldest resorts in Palm Beach that has been operating since 1926. This historical landmark boasts numerous attractions such as two nationally-recognized championship golf courses for those looking for some fun on the green; seven outdoor pools featuring waterslides, lazy rivers, and tranquil fountains; various family activities; luxury spa services; kids’ facilities where youngsters can explore their own rainforest or discover pirate ships at sea; plus much more.
Price: From $690 per night
The Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
The Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa sits adjacent to its own protected beach on the Gulf Stream and provides guests with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. This stunning property also offers three separate pools for swimming as well as a variety of water sports; plus plenty of dining options ranging from casual poolside fare to upscale cuisine at its signature restaurant, Latitudes 34° N. Guests also have access to an impressive fitness center, tennis courts and full service spa facility that provides luxurious treatments like couples massage therapy and skin therapies.
Price: From $359 per night
The Colony Hotel & Cabaña Club
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
For the true Palm Beach resort connoisseur, The Colony Hotel & Cabaña Club should be considered – it’s a midcentury-style boutique resort located in vibrant downtown Palm Beach offering both contemporary cottages and modern single rooms along with cabanas situated directly on the beachfront! From perfectly manicured lawns perfect for lounging in hammocks and savoring tropical cocktails by their own tiki bar to delicious seafood dishes served at their chic waterfront restaurant – this hotel is sure to satisfy even the pickiest traveler looking for some relaxation or entertainment during their stay in Palm Beach.
Price: From $539 per night
Marriott’s Ocean Pointe
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Marriott’s Ocean Pointe is an ideal destination for families or groups looking for a getaway in Palm Beach. This luxurious oceanfront resort offers guests stunning views of the Atlantic along with beautiful accommodations featuring private balconies, full kitchens and separate living areas; in addition to numerous amenities such as four outdoor pools, Jacuzzi, a fitness center, and even beach cabanas where you can relax while enjoying the waves below. Plus the property also offers several onsite dining options ranging from light snacks and cocktails at their poolside restaurant to a full-service market where you can purchase freshly cooked meals to take back to your room.
Price: From $339 per night
The Brazilian Court Hotel
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
The Brazilian Court Hotel offers opulent elegance right in the heart of downtown. This sophisticated property provides guests with world-class amenities such as tennis courts, croquet lawns, and a full-service spa facility offering treatments like sports massage; plus exquisite cuisine served at their acclaimed Café Boulud restaurant! Plus this elegant retreat boasts lavish guest rooms decorated with old-world charm complete with balconies overlooking Worth Avenue’s designer stores.
Price: From $599 per night
Tideline Ocean Resort & SpaPhoto: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Finally, we have Tideline Ocean Resort & Spa which sits right on Palm Beach Island affording its guests breathtaking views of both the Atlantic Ocean and Lake Worth Lagoon. Not only does it offer some of Florida’s finest luxury suites which come equipped with plush bedding and marble bathrooms but it also provides great amenities like seven swimming pools, a fitness center featuring LifeFitness machines, six bars/lounges all serving signature cocktails plus an award-winning spa that offers everything from body scrubs to facial treatments.
Price: From $286 per night
Which part of Palm Beach is the best?Each area has something unique to offer. Worth Avenue is one of the most iconic attractions in Palm Beach, known for its upscale boutiques and sophisticated restaurants. Its palm-lined streets provide a unique experience where you can enjoy shopping or simply take a leisurely stroll to admire the beauty of timeless architecture.
Lake Worth Lagoon offers stunning views with plenty of outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and kayaking to enjoy. You’ll also find picturesque beaches nearby that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Downtown West Palm Beach has something for everyone with its lively nightlife, popular eateries, and music venues. There’s also CityPlace where you can explore interesting shops, restaurants, bars, and even movie theaters.
What is the difference between West Palm Beach and Palm Beach?West Palm Beach is a vibrant, modern city located just across the Intracoastal Waterway from the more affluent island town of Palm Beach. West Palm Beach has a bustling downtown core with trendy restaurants, shopping hotspots, and entertainment venues as well as cozy residential neighborhoods.
Palm Beach, on the other hand, is an exclusive oceanfront community that offers luxurious estates and world-class amenities such as golf courses and marinas. Its prime location along Florida’s Atlantic coast makes it an ideal spot for vacationers looking to enjoy some sun and sand.
Is it better to stay in Palm Beach or West Palm Beach?West Palm Beach and Palm Beach are two distinctly different places. Located across the Intracoastal Waterway from each other, they both offer their own set of attractions and amenities that makes them appealing to different types of people.
West Palm Beach is a vibrant city with plenty to do in terms of nightlife, shopping, and entertainment. It is home to CityPlace which offers an array of boutiques, movie theaters, and other fun attractions. The downtown core boasts trendy restaurants, fashionable shops, and lively bars.
Palm Beach is an exclusive oceanfront community known for its luxurious estates and world-class amenities such as golf courses and marinas. Its idyllic location along Florida’s Atlantic coast makes it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life or find some much-needed rest and relaxation on the beach. With stunning resorts, upscale shopping destinations, art galleries, museums, and galleries you’re sure to find something that suits your needs in the area.
Germany’s Caramelized ‘Beer Brûlée’ Is the Warmest, Creamiest Way To Drink Beer in the Winter
Few beverages are as refreshing as a crisp, cold beer on a hot day. But in Germany, one of the leading beer consumers per capita in the world (hello Oktoberfest), you’re likely to experience all four seasons in a calendar year, meaning much of that beer consumption takes place in the absence of the summer sun. Naturally, Germans found a solution to the problem of drinking cold beer during the frigid winter months centuries ago. It’s called bierstacheln, and it involves plunging a fiery poker into a glass of beer to bring it up to a comfortable temperature.
@foodwtf "Bierstacheln" is a traditional German process in which a metal bierstachel (“beer spike”) is heated above 1000° F and plunged into a beer, caramelizing the sugars and creating a thick layer of creamy foam with a toasted-marshmallow aromaIG: @grimmales #beertok #beerlovers #foodie #foodtravel ♬ Fake ID X Walking On A Dream Carter Walsh Remix – CarterWalsh
The origins of bierstacheln
According to Weihenstephan, a German brewery and popular beer brand from the prolific beer-producing region of Bavaria, blacksmiths invented the tradition of “beer poking” or “beer spiking” ages ago. When it was too cold outside to drink beer directly, these blacksmiths supposedly came up with the idea of heating it up using their pokers, or spikes, which translates to “stachel” in German.
In doing so, the leftover malt sugar from the beer’s fermentation process starts to carmelize, which in addition to heating the beer also creates a rich, foamy head and decreases carbonation. This results in a creamy, malty beverage that’s smoother than a chilled beer.
Similar to how the dessert crème brûlée takes its name from the caramelization process of the sugar used to top the custard below, bierstacheln is sometimes referred to as “beer brûlée.”
What beers work best for bierstachelnIn theory, the bierstacheln concept can be applied to any beer, but because it relies on caramelization, it’s most successful in malt-forward beers with high residual sugar contents. Dark, bottom-fermenting lagers known as bock beers are particularly popular for bierstacheln in Germany (Weihenstephan recommends its dark Doppelbock Korbinian) but similar options such as Belgian dark strong ales would also work well.
Enjoy the Ultimate Nature Retreat at This Norway Treetop Cabin
For those looking to escape their day-to-day lives and immerse themselves in nature, the ørnablikk Norway Treetop Cabin is the perfect destination. This treetop cabin offers travelers a unique way to experience Norway’s stunning scenery and serenity. This cozy cabin provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will make you return for more.
This Norway Treetop Cabin is called ørnablikk, meaning eagle-eye view in Norwegian. This cabin is designed to offer guests the ultimate luxury experience and is built to maximize views of the surrounding nature and give guests a bird’s eye view of the landscape.
Situated high up in the treetops in Dyvikesåto, this cabin provides guests with breathtaking views of the Norwegian forests. The ørnablikk Norway Treetop Cabin sits high above sea level and can accommodate up to nine guests, and the cabin is designed with comfort and luxury in mind. The space features three double queen-sized beds, a full bath, a sofa that transforms into a single bed, a living room area with a fireplace, a small kitchen, a dining space, and a spacious wrap-around deck with stunning views of the Norwegian wilderness.
No matter what kind of experience you’re after, the ørnablikk Norway Treetop Cabin will leave an unforgettable mark on your heart and mind. With its stunning natural backdrop and cozy comforts, this cabin will be at the top of your list for a secluded Norwegian vacation.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable nature retreat that combines comfort with unrivaled access to some of Norway’s most stunning sights, this treetop cabin is the perfect place for a gateway from it all. With breathtaking views and unique architecture, this treetop cabin offers an unforgettable stay where you can reconnect with nature while still enjoying all the comforts of home.
Nigeria’s Arid, Hilly Bauchi State Is Fit for an Otherworldly Road Trip
When you think about visiting Nigeria, you might imagine touring bustling cities like Lagos and Abuja, admiring the arts and fashions, enjoying the beaches and nightlife, and snacking on street foods like bole (roasted plantains) and suya (spiced meat skewers). But Nigeria is also home to some fascinating natural landscapes, including the Bula Hills in the state of Bauchi.
@visit The astonishing Bula Hills in Bauchi State, Nigeria(
Located in northeastern Nigeria, Bauchi is home to some of the country’s most interesting geography, from lush mountains to sprawling savannahs and wetlands. One of the state’s most important natural attractions is Yankari Game Reserve, which spans roughly 870 square miles. Home to an array of wildlife like elephants and buffalos — not to mention hot springs — Yankari is regarded as one of the most renowned wildlife (and national) parks in the whole country.
Bauchi’s intriguing hills are located a few hours west of Yankari Game Reserve by car. The term hills is somewhat confusing as many of the formations appear to be large rocks or rock clusters that rise over the dusty and shrubby landscape. Bauchi’s landscape is split into two vegetation zones: Sudan and Sahel savannah, which explain the semi-desert shrubs surrounding the hills. However, Bauchi is also bordered by the greener and mountainous Jos Plateau to the south, providing a variety of environments for visitors to appreciate if they visit the state.
Outside of Bauchi, hills and rocky mountains are common features of Nigeria’s landscape. Another popular stop worth considering after seeing the Bula Hills: Idanre Hill in the Ondo state of southwestern Nigeria. Rising 3,000 feet above sea level, this ancient hill has many intriguing features, from huge rocks and mysterious caves, to waterfalls and temperate forests, to ancient steps leading to the top of the hill where a village containing shrines and other monuments from a great civilization that lived there long ago can be explored.
Kulmhotel Gornergrat Is the Highest Hotel in the Swiss Alps, and the Views Don’t Disappoint
High in the Swiss Alps is one of the most spectacular views in Europe. At an elevation of 10,170 feet, the Kulmhotel Gornergrat hotel offers its guests sweeping panoramic views of some of the highest peaks in the Alps. From its summit, travelers can enjoy a stunning view of 29 mountains and glaciers — including the famous Matterhorn peak — as well as beautiful alpine meadows and valleys. And the hotel doesn’t rest on its location and scenery, either, offering luxurious amenities that includes an upscale restaurant.
@visitKulmhotel Gornergrat, the highest hotel in the Swiss Alps
@drone2bewild
You can reach the hotel via the Gornergrat Railway, a remarkable feat of engineering that takes travelers on a scenic journey up the Gornergrat mountain ridge and provides unparalleled views of the Swiss Alps. The railway — which was revolutionary for its time and quickly became popular amongst tourists from all over Europe — was built in 1898 by hotelier Johannes Badrutt and opened for public use in 1898. The original line ran from Zermatt to Riffelalp but was extended in 1933 to reach its current terminus at Gornergrat. Nowadays, the journey up takes roughly half an hour and takes passengers, and as you travel higher and higher up into the Alps, the views become increasingly spectacular.
Once you do reach the hotel, you’ll find a variety of accommodations to choose from, from single rooms with mountain-view balconies to family suites with multiple bedrooms. All rooms are designed with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and complimentary WiFi access, while many offer additional luxuries like Jacuzzi tubs or private saunas. There are also several dining options. The main restaurant serves up traditional Swiss cuisine with a modern twist, and there’s a cozy lounge bar which features live music nightly during peak season months.
For those looking for something a bit more active, there are plenty of activities available both onsite and in the surrounding area. Guests can explore miles of hiking trails that wind through pristine alpine meadows or take part in organized activities like archery or guided nature walks. During winter months, skiing is available just steps away from the hotel — making Kulmhotel Gornergrat an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
This Quirky New Hampshire Hotel Has a Deserted Island-Themed Room With a Seashell Bed
A New Hampshire ski getaway conjures images of a pricy ski lodge, or cookie-cutter ski-in/out condos that don’t have a ton of character. Enter Adventure Suites. This eclectic hotel in North Conway, New Hampshire, literally has something for everyone, with a variety of themed suites ranging from “Cupid’s Corner” designed for lovers to “Roman Rendezvous” for the more historically inclined.
Each room at Adventure Suites has its own distinct atmosphere that will keep you entertained throughout your stay. The room designs are colorful and creative, providing a one-of-a-kind experience that’s tough to come by in the typical New England ski lodge scene. The rooms also come equipped with amenities like air conditioning, cable TV, Wi-Fi access, refrigerators and microwaves that make your stay even more comfortable. Each suite also has a private bedroom and bathroom, as well as an oversized living area.
@epic.stays
We hope you love Adventure Suites! 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.
Indeed, what really makes Adventure Suites special are its themed suites. There are classic styles like “The Lodge” or “The Castle Loft,” or you can go all out with a more flashy theme like “The African Safari” or “The Arabian Nights.” The “Deserted Island,” for example, might be the last theme you’d gravitate towards on a winter ski trip, but the room has an adjustable seashell bed, whose shell-like canopy closes over you for maximum coziness.
For those looking for more than just relaxation during their stay at Adventure Suites, there are plenty of outdoor activities available nearby. You can explore the trails of Echo Lake State Park on foot or bike, take a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway, or even go skiing or snowboarding at nearby ski resorts like Attitash Mountain. The hotel is also located within walking distance of downtown North Conway so you can easily explore shops and restaurants without ever having to get in a car.
You’ve Been Referring To Big Ben Wrong (and Other Things You Need To Know Before Visiting)
The most famous clock tower in the world and one of the most recognizable landmarks in London alongside Tower Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben is a must-see for first-timers in the English capital. But while it looks like a simple clock tower, Big Ben has a long and fascinating history, and some features, that you probably never knew about.
Where is Big Ben located?How to get to Big BenWhen was Big Ben built and why?How tall is Big Ben?When does Big Ben chime?Big Ben in numbersIs Big Ben under construction?Can you go inside Big Ben?Where to stay in London to be near Big BenWhere is Big Ben located?
Photo: Alexey Fedorenko/Shutterstock
Big Ben is located on the north bank of the river Thames, in the borough of Westminster in London. The borough of Westminster is also home to Buckingham Palace (only a 15-minute walk from the clock tower) and Westminster Abbey (a four-minute walk from the clock tower). Westminster is one of 32 boroughs that make up London.
More specifically, Big Ben is on the northern end of the Palace of Westminster, AKA The Houses of Parliament.
How to get to Big BenThe easiest way to get to Big Ben is by taking the subway (AKA “the tube”). The Circle line, the District line, and the Jubilee line (depicted in yellow, green, and grey respectively on subway maps) will get you straight to the station Westminster. From the station, it is only a one-minute walk to the clock tower.
When was Big Ben built and why?Photo: Pajor Pawel/Shutterstock
After the Palace of Westminster (AKA The Houses of Parliament) burnt down almost entirely in 1834, plans to build a new palace got underway quickly. Architect Charles Barry was selected to design the new building and his drawings included a clock tower. The construction of the new palace started in 1840 and the construction of the clock tower began three year later.
Designing and building a clock tower is one thing, but designing and constructing the most accurate clock in the world is another. In 1846 a competition for the best clock design was opened and the plans of Edmund Beckett Denison were chosen. In 1852, the year Queen Victoria inaugurated the new palace, Edward John Dent was hired to construct the clock, which his son, Frederick Dent, completed in 1854. The clock ticked for the first time inside the tower in 1859. At the time, the clock was said to be the most accurate one in the world.
While Big Ben is relatively recent, it is believed, that there has been a clock tower on the site since the late 13th century.
Why is Big Ben called Big Ben?Big Ben is not the name of the clock tower, it is the name of the 15.1-ton bell inside the tower that chimes every hour. It is believed, but remains unproven, that Sir Benjamin Hall, who was involved in the construction of the new palace and the clock tower, inspired the nickname.
Since Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012, the official name of the clock tower is the Elizabeth Tower. Prior to 2012, the name of the tower was known as St. Stephen’s Tower.
How tall is Big Ben?Big Ben, or as it is officially known, the Elizabeth Tower, is 315-foot tall.
When does Big Ben chime?The Great Bell, AKA Big Ben, chimes every hour. Four quarter bells chime every 15 minutes.
Big Ben in numbersThe clock tower is the same height as 21 London buses piled on top of each other, i.e. 315 feet.There are 292 steps to get to the clock tower and 334 steps to get to the belfry where the Great Bell is kept.The clock has four dials, each with a 23-foot diameter. At night, the four dials are illuminated.From 1939 to 1945, the four dials of the clock were kept dark to comply with the Blackout regulations imposed during the war.The hands on the clocks are incredibly long and heavy. The minute hands are 13.7-foot long and weigh over 220 pounds. The hour hands are 8.8-foot long and weigh over 661 pounds.Is Big Ben under construction?
Photo: ako photography/Shutterstock
Is 2017, extensive conservation work started on the clock tower and the clock itself. For almost five years, until May 2022, the tower and the clock dials were covered in scaffolding. During the work, the chiming of the bells stopped; they resumed in November 2022. At time of writing, conservation work is ongoing inside the clock tower.
Can you go inside Big Ben?Public tours of the clock tower are not available at time of writing; however, it is possible to take a tour of the Palace of Westminster.
Where to stay in London to be near Big BenWe hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend in London! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.
London Marriott Hotel County Hall
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
See more photosOnly a five-minute walk across the river Thames via Westminster Bridge to reach Big Ben, the London Marriott Hotel County Hall is a historic five-star property that has views on some of the most iconic London landmarks. Request a room with a river view to see the best of London’s skyline, including the London Eye. Being a five-star property, the London Marriott Hotel County Hall has a large indoor pool, a gym with fitness classes and personal trainers, and a restaurant, Gillrays Steakhouse & Bar, overlooking the Thames.
Book NowGreat Scotland Yard Hotel
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
See more photosThis five-star hotel, just a nine-minute walk to Big Ben, is housed in a 1820s building. Inside, the decor is a mix of traditional and modern features, with heavily decorated and very atmospheric common areas contrasting with elegant, subdued rooms and suites. Being a luxury property, the Great Scotland Yard Hotel has all the bells and whistles you’d expect: a Michelin-starred chef, a hidden whisky bar, an afternoon tea lounge, and a fitness centre.
Book NowConrad London St James
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
See more photosThe Conrad London St James is a luxury hotel located in a 19th-century building in the heart of London. Only a 10-minute walk to Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, and just a four-minute walk to Westminster Abbey, this property is ideal for those who want to get to know London on foot. There are dining and drinking options on site with the Pem restaurant where you can try out British fare, the Meantime Brewery for beer, the Blue Boar pub for wine and gin, the Hedgerow for cocktails, and the Orchard room for afternoon tea. The decor at this hotel is contemporary and elegant, and there is a fitness center for those who like to hit the gym, even while on vacation.
February 22, 2023
Try Authentic Italian Fettuccine Alfredo at These Restaurants in Rome
Fettuccine alfredo is one of the most beloved dishes in the Italian-American culinary canon. It’s not, strictly speaking, an Italian dish, but some may be surprised to learn that the first-ever serving of fettuccine alfredo was plated in Rome by an Italian chef named Alfredo di Lelio, rather than by an Italian immigrant on American soil. Of course, there are many differences between the fettuccine alfredo di Lelio originally created and what’s found across the US today. You’d be hard-pressed to find the Italian-American classic in any restaurants in Italy nowadays, but it’s still on the menu at Alfredo alla Scrofa in Rome, aka “the birthplace of fettuccine alfredo.”
@matadornetwork For many, one dish instantly pops to mind at the mention of Italian-American cuisine: fettuccine alfredo. Discover the real taste of Italy with this delicious and authentic fettuccine alfredo from Alfredo Alla Scrofa in Rome, ItalyShare this with the person you’d want to try this mouthwatering Italian dish with
One of the biggest differences between Italian and American fettuccine alfredo is the use of heavy cream in the Italian-American dish — alfredo sauce as Americans understand it doesn’t exist in Italy. Di Lelio’s version was a simple dish made with just three ingredients: fettuccine (a flat, thick noodle and one of the countless pasta types you’ll encounter in Italy), parmesan cheese, and butter. Proteins such as chicken and shrimp were also added stateside.
If you’re curious to see what Italian fettuccine alfredo is all about, it’s said that there are only two restaurants in Rome — or Italy, for that matter — that serve the dish as its inventor intended: Alfredo alla Scrofa and Il Vero Alfredo, a second restaurant opened by the di Leilo family in 1950. There, fettuccine alfredo is served tableside using only its original ingredients.
Where to try fettuccine alfredo in RomeAlfredo alla Scrofa: Opened in 1907, Alfredo alla Scrofa is located near many of the city’s most popular attractions in central Rome. It’s a five-minute walk from Piazza Navona, a seven-minute walk from the Pantheon, a 10-minute walk from the Trevi Fountain, and a 12-minute walk from the Spanish steps.
Where: Via della Scrofa, 104/a, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Il Vero Alfredo: Il Vero Alfredo is located less than half a mile upriver of Alfredo alla Scrofa. It’s right across the street from the Museo dell’Ara Pacis archaeological museum.
Where: Piazza Augusto Imperatore, 30, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
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