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Matador Network's Blog, page 352
January 18, 2023
This Michelin-Star Restaurant in Italy Makes Cacio E Pepe in a Pig’s Bladder
One of the four famous Roman pasta dishes, cacio e pepe is also one of Italy’s oldest pasta dishes, said to have been originated by shepherds who carried simple ingredients that were unlikely to spoil while they were in the mountains. Cacio e pepe has just three ingredients: cheese, pepper, and pasta, plus a generous splash of starchy pasta water to create the creamy sauce diners all over the world know and love today. It’s a dish that’s ubiquitous in Rome, but there’s one restaurant outside of the Italian capital, Lido 84, whose signature dish is a plate of cacio e pepe with a traditional yet dramatic twist— it’s prepared inside of a pig’s bladder.
@foodwtf Cacio e pepe #pasta cooked al dente inside a pig’s bladder with pecorino cheese, salt, pepper and water#Lido84 in #LakeGarda #Italy
IG: @jokuti #michelinstar #michelinrestaurant #pastatok ♬ Dolce Nonna – Wayne Jones & Amy Hayashi-Jones
Lido 84 is a Michelin-starred restaurant right on Lake Garda in northern Italy. It opened its doors in 2017 and quickly became one of the most talked-about restaurants in the area. The restaurant is located on the water and features stunning views of the lake and the surrounding Alps that can be seen from almost every seat in the house.
The star of the show at Lido 84 is the cacio e pepe dish. What makes it unique is how the chef takes rigatoni pasta, aged pecorino cheese, black pepper, salt, and extra virgin olive oil and adds them to a pig’s bladder that’s then filled with air before being cooked in boiling water. Once cooked through, it’s cut open tableside to reveal the creamy cheese and peppery mixture inside.
While there’s an element of showmanship in the restaurant’s use of pig bladders, the concept dates back to ancient times. Ancient Italians would use pig bladders as containers to store food or drink due to their strong outer walls, which could withstand extreme temperatures. While this tradition hasn’t been used much over the years, it has recently gained popularity again as chefs are experimenting with new ways to cook traditional dishes like cacio e pepe.
In Lido 84’s case, the result is a cacio e pepe dish that looks cool and tastes even better — one for the bucket list. 
Where: Corso Giuseppe Zanardelli, 196, 25083 Gardone Riviera BS, Italy
More like thisFood + DrinkThese Are the ‘Unacceptable’ Things To Do To Italian Food, According To New Poll of Italians
How To Prepare and Eat Sea Urchin Like a Pro
Sea urchin is a popular delicacy in Hawaii. If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in the islands, make sure to give this unique seafood a try. Sea urchin is a type of edible marine invertebrate. The edible part of the sea urchin is called the “uni,” which refers to the animal’s gonads. Uni is often described as having a creamy, rich flavor with hints of sweetness.
This video shows how sea urchins are traditionally prepared and eaten in Hawaii.
@foodwtfWould you give this a try? #foodie #foodtiktok #hawaiianfood #hawaiitiktok ♬ original sound – Foodwtf
If you’re looking for fresh sea urchin, your best bet is to head to one of Hawaii’s many seafood markets. At the market, you’ll be able to select live sea urchins that have been caught that day (or you could always just catch them yourself). Make sure to ask the market worker to open the sea urchin so that you can inspect the uni inside. The uni should be bright orange and firm to the touch. Avoid any sea urchins that have brown or mushy uni.
Once you’ve procured your live sea urchins, it’s time to get cooking. The first step is to remove the uni from the shell. This can be done by using a spoon or your fingers. Once the uni has been removed, rinse it under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel. The next step is up to you—you can either eat the uni raw or cook it. If you choose to cook the uni, doing so will change its flavor and texture. One popular way to cook uni is by tempura frying it. To tempura fry uni, simply coat it in a batter made of egg and flour before frying in hot oil until golden brown.
If you’re planning on eating the urchin raw, it’s important to note that the taste can be quite strong and acquired. To make the taste more palatable, some people like to mix the raw urchin flesh with lemon juice or vinegar before eating it. Alternatively, you could cook the urchin flesh by sauteeing it in butter or olive oil.
Explore the Czech Republic’s Wine Country at This 600-Year-Old Vineyard
When most people think of the Czech Republic, they picture Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Astronomical Clock. But there’s so much more to this Central European country than its capital city. Just a short drive from Prague lies St. Wenceslas Vineyard, which is well worth a visit.
@foodwtf Not only does this #vineyard have some delicious wine but it also has an incredible view of Prague
Nestled in the Bohemian Hills, St. Wenceslas Vineyard is one of the oldest vineyards in the Czech Republic. The vineyard was first planted in 1347 by Charles IV, and it’s been producing grapes ever since. The vineyard was founded by Czech King Wenceslas II, who was also a Duke of Luxembourg, and is situated on south-facing slopes at an altitude of 1,800 feet above sea level. The climate is perfect for growing grapes, and the vineyard benefits from long sunny days and cool nights.
A variety of wines are produced there, including red, white, and rose. The most famous wine produced at St. Wenceslas Vineyard is the “St. Wenceslas Cuvee,” which is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir grapes. This particular wine has won numerous awards and has been praised by critics all over the world.
The most popular wines here are the Muscat Ottonel, Riesling, Pinot Blanc, and Chardonnay. The sparkling wine is also very popular and is made using the traditional method of secondary fermentation in the bottle. The vineyard offers tours of its facilities, during which you’ll learn all about the history of the site and the wine-making process. You’ll also have a chance to sample some of the vineyard’s wines—a perfect way to relax after a day of sightseeing.
10 New York City Restaurants for Every Type of Traveler
New York City can be overwhelming. It’s not just the lights of Times Square, or the incessant honking of taxi cab horns – it’s the food, all the glorious food. Whether you’ve been there once or 10 times, there are so many restaurant options that trying to choose just one can feel like navigating an endless labyrinth of secret corners and intriguing doorways. The extraordinary diversity of New York City means that dumplings, noodles, Southern comfort food, lobster rolls, borscht, and labneh, not to mention the classic standbys of Italian cuisine and pizza, are all on the menu in New York City. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night, need a kid friendly restaurant that caters to big, noisy groups, or you want to splurge on a fancy night out on the town, here are Matador’s picks for the New York city restaurants for every occasion.
Best restaurants in New York City for romanceBest restaurants in New York City for a fun night outBest restaurants in New York City for familiesWhere to stay in New York CityBest restaurants in New York City for romance1. Don AngieView this post on InstagramA post shared by Don Angie (@donangienyc)
The intimate, candlelit dining room is one of the most chic spaces in New York City. While it’s difficult to snag a reservation here, it’s worth trying. This might be one of the trendiest tables in New York City, but the food at Don Angie lives up to its reputation. The lasagna – noodles rolled into the shape of flowers and stuffed with cheese — is legendary, and it now has a Michelin star.
Where: 03 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10014
Price: $$$
2. Pies -N- ThighsView this post on InstagramA post shared by Pies ‘n’ Thighs (@piesnthighs)
For a romantic brunch, but cozy, and boozy, try this fried chicken and biscuits cafe in Brooklyn is a good spot for a first date – or a hung over lunch with your significant other accompanied by some hair of the dog. In the summer, sit outside on one of the picnic tables and enjoy a selection of the restaurant’s natural wines. The pies have real star power at Pies -N- Thighs. Banana cream and bourbon pecan stand out, but you’ll want to come back to try a slice of each one.
Where: 166 S 4th St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Price: $$
3. BuvetteThis charming bistro where the walls are exposed brick and the tables are packed close together serves elegant French food in New York City’s trendy West Village neighborhood. Slow cooked duck, chicken simmered in red wine, steamed mussels, and escargots are just a few of the dishes that give Buvette a Parisian cafe feel.
Where: 42 Grove St, New York, NY 10014
Price: $$
Best restaurants in New York City for a fun night out4. Mary’s Fish CampView this post on InstagramA post shared by Mary's Fish Camp (@marysfishcamp)
The lively atmosphere at Mary’s Fish Camp in posh and charming Greenwich Village might fool you into thinking you’re enjoying dinner at a beach side shack. You’ll hear lots of hype around the lobster roll here – but it’s hype that’s well earned. In the evenings, Mary’s Fish Camp gets hectic, and with tables so close together, it might feel cramped. In the daytime, the atmosphere is much more relaxed.
Where: 64 Charles St, New York, NY 10014
Price: $$$
5. Via CarotaClassic pasta dishes are done to perfection at this West Village institution. Dim lights and dark wood floors and tables give this restaurant a romantic atmosphere. The dish to order at Via Carota is the cacio e pepe. Just be warned that the restaurant is walk-in only, and there is always a line. You’ll wait a couple hours for a table, but stick it out. You don’t want to leave New York City without eating at Via Carota.
Where: 51 Grove St, New York, NY 10014
Price: $$$
6. Congee VillageView this post on InstagramA post shared by Congee Village (@congeevillage)
Big groups will find themselves right at home at Congee Village. Each table is outfitted with a lazy susan, which makes sharing the signature Cantonese dishes easy. The portions are big, and the food arrives at the table quickly. There are even private karaoke rooms. Notable dishes include fried shrimp, congee with blue crab, steamed bass, and stir fried shrimp.
Where: 100 Allen St, New York, NY 10002
Price: $$
7. ShuketteView this post on InstagramA post shared by Shukette (@shukettenyc)
Middle Eastern cuisine is on the menu at this lively Chelsea restaurant. Kebabs and seafood, like grilled shrimp, as well as a rainbow of roasted vegetables all stand out. Small plates, like hummus and labneh make for good snacking. The open kitchen concept at Shukette lends itself to a casual, fun atmosphere.
Where: 230 9th Ave, New York, NY 10001
Price: $$
Best restaurants in New York City for families8. VeselkaView this post on InstagramA post shared by Veselka (@veselkanyc)
This casual diner has been serving Ukrainian food in the East Village since 1954. The pierogi are especially legendary, but you’ll also find borscht and stuffed cabbage on the menu. Veselka is family friendly, but with 24-hour service, you’ll also find lots of late-night, post-party crowds here.
Where: 144 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003
Price: $$
9. Nom Wah Tea ParlorThis Chinatown institution is where everyone who visits New York City should have dim sum. The dining room has vintage, old New York feel (after all the restaurant has been open since 1920) and extensive menu offers the opportunity to try classic dim sum dishes. You could eat to excess at Nom Wah, kids in tow, so bring your appetite.
Where: 13 Doyers St, New York, NY 10013
Price: $
10. Roberta’sView this post on InstagramA post shared by Roberta's (@robertaspizza)
By now, East Williamsburg in Brooklyn is known for its hipster vibes, and Roberta’s certainly embodies that stereotype. Luckily, the wood fired pizza lives up to the hype and makes it worth a stop. The Neopoltian style pies are sometimes made from ingredients grown in the restaurants’ rooftop garden, so expect freshness. Outfitted with long wooden communal tables, the dining room is well suited to families and big groups.
Where: 261 Moore Street. Brooklyn, NY 11206
Price: $$
Where to stay in New York City
Photo: Booking.com
To eat at all the iconic restaurants New York City has to offer, you’ll need to stay awhile. The hotels below are centrally located and well-reviewed. However, there are also plenty of New York City Airbnbs that offer experiences like yoga in Central Park, and sailing on the East River.
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. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Where to stay in BrooklynThe Wythe Hotel
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Wythe Hotel (@wythehotel)
Staying at the Wythe Hotel puts visitors right in the heart of busy Williamsburg, with industrial decor and floor-to-ceiling windows in every room. But it’s the on-site restaurants that make Wythe stand out. Indoors, the 6th-floor cocktail bar offers stunning views of Manhattan, while Le Crocodile serves up a delicious taste of France along the East River waterfront.
Where: 80 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Where to stay in ManhattanThe Jane Hotel
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Sara Clemens (@thesaraclemens)
Looking for a taste of the past? Look no further than this retro hotel built in 1908 in Manhattan’s West Village. Originally built to house sailor, the rooms are still reminiscent of ship’s cabins. Book a Standard Cabin – a no-frills 50-square-foot accommodation with shared bathroom that will rock you to sleep dreaming of old New York City ghosts.
Where: 113 Jane St, New York, NY 10014
High Line Hotel
View this post on InstagramA post shared by The High Line Hotel (@thehighlinehotelnyc)
This historic building was erected in 1895 as a dormitory for the General Theological Assembly and its gothic brick facade takes visitors back in time. But look closely and you’ll find that modern amenities have been added to make your stay even more comfortable. From complimentary Shinola bicycles to an Intelligentsia coffee bar, to a double-decker London bus serving cocktails and snacks, the High Line Hotel is designed for well-heeled travelers.
Where: 180 10th Ave, New York, NY 10011
More like thisFood + Drink5 Iconic New York City Sandwiches Every Visitor To the City Needs To TryThe Langham Hotel in Jakarta, Indonesia, Takes Elegance and Luxury To the Next Level
The Langham Hotel in Jakarta, Indonesia, is a luxurious and elegant hotel that offers guests the perfect blend of traditional and modern amenities. The hotel is located in the heart of Jakarta’s central business district, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers.
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. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
@epic.stays
The property
The hotel features a wide range of guest rooms and suites, all tastefully decorated and equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests can choose from various room types, including deluxe rooms, executive suites, and even a presidential suite. One of the standout amenities is the rooftop pool. This 65-foot lap pool is surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking city views.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by The Langham, Jakarta (@langham_jakarta)
The food
The Langham Hotel also has delicious dining options available in stunning restaurants. Alice is a modern French brasserie and patisserie that’s open all day and also serves afternoon tea, coffee, and Champagne. . The hotel also has a Chinese restaurant, T’ang Court, which serves traditional Cantonese cuisine, as well as a British and European restaurant called Tom’s by Tom Aikens that uses local and imported seasonal ingredients.
Things to doThe hotel also offers a variety of recreational facilities, including a fitness center, an indoor heated swimming pool, and a full-service spa. The spa offers various treatments, including massages, facials, and body treatments. Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s barberia (barbershop).
The Langham Hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a luxurious and elegant hotel in the heart of Jakarta. With its wide range of amenities, excellent dining options, and recreational facilities, the hotel offers something for everyone.
Live Out Your Magical Fantasies With This San Diego Airbnb
If you’re a fan of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings and your ultimate dream and adventure is to live like your favorite movie characters for a day, then it’s time you escape to this unique San Diego hobbit house in California. Nestled among the trees, this magical spot will transport you away from reality and into a peaceful and relaxing world.
This San Diego hobbit house Airbnb offers travelers the opportunity to experience something truly unique. Upon arriving, you will be greeted with stunning views of the property’s foliage. Inside, you will find all the comfort of home, such as a wood-burning fireplace, a built-in desk, and a comfortable murphy bed. The interior has been crafted with great attention to detail and features several handmade pieces of furniture that help create a truly magical atmosphere.
@epic.stays
We hope you love the Hobbit House Airbnb! 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.
Staying at this secluded San Diego hobbit house provides much more than just picturesque views—it also offers an opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation. The property is far enough away from civilization that it feels like its own little world—the perfect place to unwind and unplug from everyday life. Whether you want to kick back on the deck with a book or adventure through nature trails nearby, there are plenty of ways to refresh your mind here.
This Airbnb is in a private gated community 30 minutes from San Diego. If you want to return to present-day time, then The San Diego Safari Park is nearby, as well as plenty of wineries, vineyards, and restaurants within eight miles of the house.
To stay at the secluded San Diego hobbit house, the cost per night is $351.
Explore the Historical Casas Del XVI in Santo Domingo
Casas del XVI is a boutique hotel in the heart of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. This quaint residential area is known for its unique colonial-era architecture and offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s past. Tourists worldwide come to explore this beautiful area, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Casas del XVI is nestled in one of the oldest neighborhoods in Santo Domingo. Surrounded by cobblestone streets and colonial-style architecture, this neighborhood provides a unique atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean. The hotel is housed in two beautifully restored 16th-century buildings that Spanish colonists originally built. These buildings have been carefully preserved and renovated, providing guests with an authentic historical experience.
@epic.stays
We hope you love the Casas del XVI in Santo Domingo! 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.
This historic hotel offers many different accommodations, from luxury rooms like a luxury double room that is perfect for solo or couple travelers or a luxury queen room with two queen beds that could accommodate up to two adults and two small children or up to three adults. Along with luxury rooms, Casas del XVI offers private Casas for guests with large parties seeking to stay longer.
Guests will also have access to many amenities like private butler service, daily maid service, turndown service, concierge service, and private chef service.
While staying at Casas del XVI, guests can access some of Santo Domingo’s most popular attractions, including museums, galleries, restaurants, and bars. The nearby Malecon boardwalk is ideal for strolls along the waterfront, soaking up the sunny weather, or watching locals fish off the pier. Casas del XVI can arrange trips to nearby beaches or mountain towns such as Jarabacoa or Constanza for those looking to explore beyond Santo Domingo.
These Airbnbs in Miami Put You Near the City’s Best Beaches and Neighborhoods
Miami is more than beaches, mega yachts, and the infamous “Spring Break” — of course, it’s all of those things, too. Vice City’s relaxed ethos, combined with perfect year-round weather, makes it the ideal refuge for both short and long-term stays. Here are the top-rated Airbnb Miami stays across a range of hot neighborhoods and price points.
Traveling to Florida? Check out Matador’s Florida accommodations guides:15 beautiful Florida Airbnbs for every type of travelerThe best 11 Airbnbs near Universal Studios8 of the coolest Airbnbs near Disney World, Florida15 beautiful Florida Airbnbs for every type of traveler6 Kissimmee Airbnbs for a multi-generational family Disney trip11 Key West Airbnbs to experience the best of the island11 gorgeous Florida Keys Airbnbs to catch the ‘Keys Disease’These New Smyrna Beach Airbnbs showcase the best of Florida’s central coast
We hope you love the Airbnb Miami vacation 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.
Airbnbs in South Beach and Miami BeachAirbnb Miami penthouses and mansionsAirbnb houses in Miami with a pool or hot tubMiami beach homes and apartments on AirbnbAirbnbs in South Beach and Miami BeachBright and airy apartment on South Beach
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
If you’ve come to Miami to be in the thick of all the action, then you’ll definitely want to stay on South Beach. And this bright and airy luxe unit is just a five-minute walk from the main drag of Ocean Drive. It helps too that its host is known for being extremely accommodating. And this unit is consistently rated highly for cleanliness and, of course, is just across from the beach. From the doorstep of this pad, you can make it to any of Miami Beach’s top tourist spots, like the Versace Mansion and the Art Deco Historic District.
Eight guests, two bedrooms
Price: $96 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Go big or go home is a mantra around here. You can luxuriate like a king or queen with panoramic ocean views from this condominium housed within the five-star Fontainebleau Hotel. It has an in-suite jacuzzi and offers full access to all of the hotel’s amenities. Located on Mid-Beach, the apartment has two full bathrooms and can sleep up to six. Mid-Beach is a bit quieter and more upscale than South Beach and is home to Miami’s finest restaurants and hotels, many of which, like The Confidante, Faena Beach, and Miami Beach EDITION.
Six guests, one bedroom
Price: $743 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This property offers the best of South Beach — with easy access to the ocean, walkable dining and nightlife, an luxury beach vibes on-site, you won’t find a more fitting place for an iconic stay on the island. It’s inside the 1 Hotel, Roney Place, which means you also get to take advantage of the luxury property’s amenities like a pool, gym, and concierge.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $510 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This rustic-chic one-bed Airbnb is one of the residences at the W Hotel. From its sunny balcony, you can catch magnificent views of Downtown Miami and the bay. Located in Brickell, home to Miami’s corporate offices and wealthiest residents, you’ll experience a more sophisticated side of the city here — a far cry from the touristy mayhem of South Beach. Renting this Airbnb will get you access to the W’s many luxurious amenities, like its rooftop pool and full-service spa and gym.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $210 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
If you’re into street art, coffee, or Miami’s burgeoning tech scene, you’ll probably feel the magnetic pull of Wynwood. As trite as it sounds, it rings true that this rising star neighborhood is comparable to the Brooklyn of Miami. Digital nomads tend to flock to Wynwood for its bevy of cafes and coworking spaces. So grab five of your remote worker pals and check into this swanky two-bed condo right in the middle of it.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $685 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Bal Harbor is chic, upscale, and a world away from the craziness of South Beach. This two-bed beachfront luxury apartment is perfect for travelers seeking elegant serenity. Wedged on a thin strip of island between the ocean and bay, Bal Harbor is home to yacht marinas and premier designer shopping at Bal Harbor Shops.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $929 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Calle Ocho (yes, like the Pitbull song) is the heartbeat of Cuban culture in Miami. And this Little Havana Airbnb is located just two blocks off of it. It sleeps up to five in a newly renovated and freshly decorated home, which the host advertises as ideal for longer stays of two weeks or more. From here you’ll have authentic Latin American culture and some of the best off-the-radar Cuban restaurants at your fingertips.
Fourteen guests, five bedrooms
Price: $426 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Coconut Grove is a bit south of the city proper, so you’ll be sure to avoid traffic jams and overpriced parking garages. But convenience is not its only selling point: Coconut Grove has a charming downtown and is close by to national landmarks, such as the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. This three-bed Coconut Grove home is centrally located in downtown and has a large pool and yard. It’s within walking distance of the water and comes with two dedicated parking spaces — perfect for those who plan to make day trips outside the Miami area during their visit.
Ten guests, three bedrooms
Price: $453 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Some of Miami’s most stunning properties, like this spacious loft, overlook both city and sea. This unit offers near-360-vies of the region, with vivid colors popping through every window. Whether you’re visiting on business, experiencing Miami’s booming social scenes, or hopping through the design district and downtown, this hi-rise is the place to be to impress everyone — including yourself.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $540 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Channel the designer within: this two-bed Airbnb lives up to the name of its neighborhood. Newly renovated and with all modern decor, experience the best of Miami’s Design District and surrounding areas from this pad.
Three guests, two bedrooms
Price: $157 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Downtown Miami is at the intersection of the beach and the city’s mainland neighborhoods. It’s mostly characterized by luxury high-rise buildings, like the one that this one-bed Airbnb is housed within. With a rooftop pool, a parking space, and easy access to restaurants and shopping, you really can’t go wrong.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $220 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
While it isn’t quite the Florida Keys, Key Biscayne is a nearby reprieve from the hustle and bustle of Miami. Enjoy the natural beauty of South Florida at Bill Baggs Cape State Park or one of Key Biscayne’s pristine beaches. This one-bed Airbnb is spacious, modern, and only one block from the ocean. It has an infinity pool on-site and its rental comes with access to the Key Biscayne Beach Club. It’s ideal for travelers who would rather look at Miami on the skyline — cocktail in hand — rather than be in the thick of it.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $307 per night
January 17, 2023
6 Reasons Why You Should Book a Group Travel Trip To Europe
Traveling to another country is one of the best chances to experience other cultures. And while some people enjoy the planning stages, for others, it might be intimidating to figure the ins and outs of a place you’ve never been — especially if your friends suck at getting the trip out of the group chat and solo travel is a bit too intimating. Group travel arranged through a travel provider is a great compromise to be around like-minded people with the same passion and interest in seeing a destination as you do.
As someone who has only traveled with friends, as a couple, or with other journalists, I was nervous about going on my Contiki Portugal trip with 21 people. I didn’t expect to have the time of my life and make relationships I’ll never forget. Once I got back, I found that there were some key advantages to traveling this way.
You don’t have to worry about planning anythingI chose the Portugal City and Surf tour, which is the perfect balance between beach areas like Peniche and Algarve and major cities like Porto and Lisbon. But the trip didn’t end there. Usually, when I’m on vacation, I only get the opportunity to visit one or two cities. But over eight days, we explored seven other towns along the way. On our stop in Nazareth, I witnessed some of the biggest waves in the world. During our time in Coimbra, we visited the oldest university in the country and coincidentally ran into a traditional university celebration. These aren’t the type of places I would have stopped if I had planned a trip on my own, but they’re experiences I won’t forget.
Deciding where to stay, how to get around, and the best places to stop can be overwhelming for any traveler. Contiki takes the guesswork out of it. While riding around a country by bus might sound uncomfortable, the coach was actually more enjoyable than some flights I’ve taken. Sometimes I’d chat with other trip members, but most of the time I slept so I’s be well rested if I wanted to enjoy the nightlife when we arrived.
Every Contiki trip has different accommodations. On my trip, we spent the night in two Selina hostels, where I shared a room with five other women, and two hotel rooms where I had a roommate or two. Before my time in Portugal, I had only spent the night in two different hostels in the states. The Selina hostels were not only clean but had lots of amenities I hadn’t seen at the other ones I stayed in. Both had cool bars to hang out in and cute cafes to eat in. The aesthetic was a very hip setting for meeting other travelers. While blackout curtains easily block any light if you plan to go to bed early or sleep in, my suggestion would be to bring earplugs or something to muffle the sound. I wear a sleep mask with speakers built in so I can fall asleep to music or a podcast, and they were also very effective in blocking out unwanted noise.
You’ll learn history and culture and get recommendations from a knowledgeable guide
Photo: Olivia Harden
Europe is a popular destination for many reasons, one being that the continent’s history is well documented. When I travel, I always try to spend some time at a museum or cultural monument, but I won’t hesitate to cancel my plans if my hotel bed feels super lush. On a trip like this, you start learning the moment you step on the coach. Karin, my Contiki guide, had worked for the company leading group travel tours for the last 10 years. Every morning she’d hop on the mic inside our bus and go over the plans for the day and why we were visiting the destination. On our way to Sintra, a town full of castles and palaces and a UNESCO World Heritage site, she explained the history of the royals who resided in them and why Sintra was so famous.
One of my favorite stops was Fatima, where our guide explained the story of the miracle where three peasant children were blessed with a visit from the Virgin Mary (known as Fatima in Portugal) in 1917. During our visit, we saw a mass where thousands of people gathered. Karin also explained why we saw visitors in long lines with massive candles as a way to repent for the sins of their loved ones. I left Portugal feeling like I got a more complete picture of the country’s past and the people who live there now than I would if I had arranged my own travel.
On most days of the trip, breakfast was included, but we could go to town and explore the local cuisine for lunch and dinner. Karin was quick to recommend places to eat local specialties. And while she couldn’t come out to bars and nightclubs with us, she did have recommendations for where we’d find popular spots in the area. Karin recommended her favorite place in Porto to get a Francesinha sandwich (a beloved favorite among locals) and what part of Lisbon we’d find popular bars and nightclubs. Her advice made it easy to navigate on our own.
You can decide your budget with free time add-ons
Photo: Olivia Harden
Contiki divides time between guided activities and free time that allow you to explore, but they also offer extra excursions you can pay for and add to your trip. If you’re looking to keep your spending under a specific limit or there’s an activity you’re not interested in doing, you can pass on it for extra free time. My favorite additional activity was our trip to a vineyard in Bombarral. Quinta do Sanguinhal is a traditional family-run winery that began in the 19th century. We got to walk the vineyards and then do a wine tasting in the barrel room. I liked one of the white wines so much that I bought a bottle to take home.
Other add-ons included an EatWith in Porto, where locals prepared a home-cooked meal for us, surf lessons in Peniche, a street art tour in Cascais, and buggy tours in the Algarve. But if money is tight or you’re not interested in any activities, there are still plenty of excursions included in the trip, like a canal ride in Aveiro, time to explore castle and palace ruins in Sintra, and time on the beach in Santa Luzia.
You’ll be encouraged to try new foods
Photo: Olivia Harden
Anytime you travel to a foreign country, local delicacies might go anywhere from sounding delicious to totally out of your comfort zone. Portugal is known across the country for its national dessert, the custard tart pastel de nata. It reminded me of creme brulee wrapped in breading, so it felt familiar and easy to try. But other local favorites might be a bit more difficult for someone with an American palate to wrap their head around.
Call it peer pressure if you want, but it makes it a bit easier to try foods you’re not used to when you’re doing it with friends. The Francesinha sandwich from Porto is a local favorite made of bread, wet-cured ham, a smoke-cured sausage called linguiça, fresh sausage, and steak or roasted meat. It’s then smothered with melted cheese, a hot and thick spiced tomato and beer sauce, and topped with a fried egg. This heavy sandwich is not for the faint of heart, and it’s personally not something I would order on my own, but I’m glad I got to try it while in Porto. The same was true for me with the octopus in Santa Luiza.
And trying new things doesn’t mean you have to like it all. While I loved the octopus and thought the Francesinha was just okay, there was one thing I tried that I absolutely despised. Porto is the home of port wine, which is made by adding a distilled grape spirit to the wine base, causing it to stop fermentation and result in a higher alcohol content of up to 20 percent. We did a wine tasting, and I did not enjoy it at all — and that’s okay. The important thing is that I tried it and exposed myself to something new, even if it wasn’t for me.
If something goes wrong, Contiki helps take care of itWhenever you go on vacation, there’s always the possibility that something won’t go exactly as planned. While we were in Porto, the company that was initially supposed to offer our Port wine tasting canceled at the last minute, but Karin was able to get in touch with a local who showed us around Porto, and she scheduled a private tasting at a restaurant nearby.
While we were exploring Portugal, I also caught a severe ear infection. Karin helped me get in touch with a telehealth doctor to write me a prescription for antibiotics and helped me find the closest pharmacy to pick up the prescription. I was out of commission for a good 36 hours, but I appreciated the help in a country where I didn’t speak the language.
You’ll make friends that will last a lifetime
Photo: Olivia Harden
When you spend 24/7 with 21 people, you may start as strangers, but you very quickly develop relationships that you otherwise wouldn’t imagine. I now have friends from as close as the United States and Canada to as far as Australia. Many of the people on the trip I met had been on multiple group travel trips with Contiki, and when I asked why, one of the main reasons was the connections they’d made.
This Secluded Resort in the Philippines Is the Perfect Hideaway From Everyday Life
The Philippines is a beautiful destination to set your sights on. With lots of natural beauty like the Barracuda Lake and Kawasan Falls, this destination is great for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature, and resorts like Nay Palad Hideaway are making it possible. This luxurious and secluded all-inclusive resort is known for its “barefoot state of mind.” This resort is perfect for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The resort is situated on the remote island of Siargao and offers guests the opportunity to reconnect with nature in a truly breathtaking setting.
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On one end of the property, the hideaway village has fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean and sits just behind the white-sand beach. On the other side, the property faces ancient mangrove forests and natural waterways. The resort offers a variety of spacious villas, all designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Each room is equipped with lush gardens, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the island’s natural beauty.
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The resort’s main attraction is its private beach, where guests can enjoy swimming and sunbathe in complete tranquility. The crystal-clear waters of the sea are also perfect for snorkeling and other water sports. The resort also offers yoga classes, spa treatments, and island-hopping excursions for those looking to explore the area.
For the more adventurous, Siargao Island is known for its world-class surfing, and the resort offers surf lessons and equipment rental for those who want to try their hand at the sport. The resort’s team of experienced instructors will help you to catch the perfect wave.
The resort serves delicious local and international cuisine, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients with no set menu, making every meal an adventure.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or want to relax, Nay Palad Hideaway has something for everyone. The reconstruction of Nay Palad Hideaway is coming to an end. Booking dates begin on June 1, 2023, just in time for a summer getaway.
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