Matador Network's Blog, page 358
January 23, 2023
This Video of Harvesting Melocactus Fruit Is Strangely Relaxing
If you’ve never heard of melocactus, don’t worry. Melocactus fruit originates in the tropical regions of Central and South America, and it’s not very common in the US. In fact, few people probably even know it’s edible. But this mesmerizing video may be enough to convince you to try growing your own at home.
@foodwtf Did you know that the #melocactus has edible fruits similar in taste to #dragonfruit ?In the wild they are frequently eaten by lizards and birds!
IG: @cultofsun #turkscapcactus #cactus #fruittiktok #cactusaddict ♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim
The melocactus fruit is pepper-shaped and has a unique taste. It’s slightly sweet, with citrus-like flavor reminiscent of melon and mango with notes of pineapple and peach. Most people describe it as rather mild, and some think it has a bit of a sour aftertaste. As with most cactus fruits, it’s also pretty healthy, containing vitamin C, antioxidant compounds like polyphenols (which may help reduce inflammation), and vitamin B.
Can you grow melocactus?Photo: stockphoto mania/Shutterstock
Yes, like most cacti and succulents, melocactus can be grown in home gardens. Plant them in well-draining soil and try to keep them in an area with direct sunlight for the best results. Melocactus fruit grows best in a warm climate and must be protected from cold temperatures, especially during the winter. With regular watering and fertilizing, melocactus plants can yield fruits after two to three years of growth.
Melocactus fruit is pretty small, as you can see in the video above, so you’ll probably need to harvest it with tweezers. Online, you’ll find recipes for using it to make jellies or jams, or you can just leave them out for lizards and birds, as many species eat the fruit in the wild.
Melocactus fruit isn’t the only edible cactus
Photo: Dmytro Sheremeta/Shutterstock
You may not know about melocactus fruit, but how about dragonfruit or prickly pear? More fruits than you may think come from cacti, including:
Prickly pear cactus: Prickly pear is native to the Americas and its fruit is also referred to as prickly pear. The fruit has a sweet, juicy flesh and is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.Dragon fruit cactus: Dragonfruit is native to Central and South America and is grown for its tropical-tasting fruit. The fruit has a pink or red skin and white or pink flesh, and some people think it tastes similar watermelon. It’s one of the easiest to recognize.Barrel cactus: This cactus is native to the desert regions of North America and also produces sweet, juicy fruit. The fruit has a yellow or orange skin and a soft, edible pulp. It’s a little on the tart side.Saguaro cactus (Carnegiea gigantea): This cactus is native to the Sonoran Desert in the southwestern United States and Mexico and is grown for its sweet, edible fruit. The fruit has a red skin and a white, juicy pulp. If you’re in the US Southwest, you may be able to find it in the form of jams or honey from farmers markets or produce stands.
More like thisFood + DrinkThe Only Way To Taste These Rare Fruits in the US Is Amazon or Etsy
7 London Restaurants That Celebrate Seasonal Produce and Local Ingredients
A trip to London is inevitably going to involve hours of sightseeing. Whether you’re exploring the city’s many museums, taking a tour of iconic buildings like Westminster Abbey, enjoying the views on a boat ride down the River Thames, or taking in the fresh air at Hyde Park, there is so much to see and do in London. That’s why any potential London vacationers should plan where they intend to fuel up with a hearty meal, a pint, or a cup of tea during their stay. All that walking is going to require satisfying meals of roasted meats and vegetables, soul-comforting curries, and fresh, salty seafood. Trust us, there’s so much more to eat here besides fish and chips. Luckily, London’s essential food and drink are made to perfection at restaurants in every part of the city. Here are the seven restaurants in London everyone needs to try at least once.
1. St. JohnView this post on InstagramA post shared by St. JOHN Restaurant (@st.john.restaurant)
Sparse decorations, white tablecloths, and simple wooden chairs give St. John a clean cut, minimalist atmosphere. The focus here is on hearty, simple British fare – nothing fancy, nothing flashy. Think pot roast mutton leg, roasted bone marrow, and smoked eel. The kitchen makes use of seasonal British produce, as well the whole animal (whether its pig rabbit); the restaurant’s motto is “nose to tail eating.”
Where: 26 St John St, Barbican, London EC1M 4AY, United Kingdom
Price: $$$
2. KilnView this post on InstagramA post shared by Kilnsoho (@kilnsoho)
The signature cooking method at this Thai-inspired restaurant is wood burning grills and ovens. The menu draws flavors from not just Thailand, but Laos, Myanmar and Yunnan, as well. Located in the trendy Soho neighborhood, Kiln uses Thai and Chinese herbs and vegetables, but the pigs are British – they’re bred in Somerset, specifically. The restaurant showcases seafood (delivered fresh daily) in particular, from clams to mussels to monkfish, as well as clay pot cooking.
Where: 58 Brewer St, London W1F 9TL, United Kingdom
Price: $$
3. DishoomView this post on InstagramA post shared by Dishoom (@dishoom)
Dishoom is a love letter to Bombay – and considered one of the best restaurants not just in London, but in the world. Surprisingly affordable, there is always a line of people out of the door waiting for a table at the Covent Garden location. Firecracker ingredients ginger, garlic and red chili add serious flavor to some of the restaurants’ classic dishes, including tandooris and daal curry. Breakfast at Dishoom is lauded too – be sure to try naan wrapped breakfast sandwiches.
Where: 12 Upper St Martin’s Ln, London WC2H 9FB, United Kingdom
Price: $$
4. FrenchieView this post on InstagramA post shared by Frenchie Covent Garden (@frenchiecoventgarden)
The London outpost of this beloved Paris restaurant excels at both food and interior design. The seats are link velvet, the lighting is warm and inviting, the bar is outfitted in minimalist neutral colors, accented by green plants. So it looks effortlessly chic inside Frenchie, but what about the food? By all accounts it’s sublime. Chicken stuffed with creamy foie gras, ribbons of pappardelle topped with lamb, and black truffle dusted tortellini are all among the beloved dishes here.
Where: 16 Henrietta St, London WC2E 8QH, United Kingdom
Price: $$$
5. KricketView this post on InstagramA post shared by Kricket
(@kricketlondon)
Kricket has a Bib Gourmand designation from the Michelin guide, meaning the good quality food comes at a good value. You won’t have to splurge to have a good time here: The lively atmosphere and open kitchen feel modern and comfortable, while the food is consistently tasty: The Keralan fried chicken and pakoras are among the most praised dishes.
Where: 41-43 Atlantic Rd, London SW9 8JL, United Kingdom
Price: $$
6. BrawnView this post on InstagramA post shared by Brawn (@brawn49)
Another restaurant with a Bib Gourmand designation, Brawn serves Mediterranean small plates in a stylish space. Brawn calls itself a “neighborhood” restaurant first and foremost, and that friendly attitude manifests itself in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere in the dining room. The menu changes all the time, based on the season and what produce is available, but the anchovies drenched in rosemary oil, grilled scallops, and classic pork chop are all worth trying,
Where: 49 Columbia Rd, London E2 7RG, United Kingdom
Price: $$
7. The LedburyLocated in Notting Hill, The Ledbury features an eight course tasting menu with ingredients like crab, lobster, and veal. THe sophisticated dining room reflects the same upscale elegance of the menu, with its polished wooden floors and cream and navy blue decor. With two Michelin stars, The Ledbury has established itself as a star in the London culinary scene. Be prepared to pay top dollar for a near-perfect meal.
Where: 127 Ledbury Rd, London W11 2AQ, United Kingdom
Price: $$$$
Where to stay in London
Photo: Firmdale Hotels
After a day of exploring London, relax at one of these posh hotels. Featuring elegant interior design, and all in close proximity to the most famous landmarks in London, as well as the most popular museums, these centrally located hotels will be a stylish landing pad for you and your family.
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.
Brown’s HotelView this post on InstagramA post shared by Brown's Hotel (@browns_hotel)
Within walking distance of Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park, Brown’s Hotel is the place to stay if you want to treat yourself to a luxury experience. The hotel’s The Donovan Bar offers an impressive selection of scotch, and the restaurant offers a decadent afternoon tea service. It has an interesting history too: Agatha Christie used to stay there. But will really draw
Where: 33 Albemarle St, London W1S 4BP, United Kingdom
Number SixteenView this post on InstagramA post shared by Firmdale Hotels (@firmdale_hotels)
Number Sixteen in City Centre is a boutique hotel with Victorian charm. Enjoy a tea service complete with decadent cakes and champagne in the hotel garden, then walk to the Victoria & Albert museum. In the rooms, touches like green, floral patterned curtains and pillows, and sky blue wallpaper give the rooms a fresh, country house atmosphere – a respite from the noise and energy of city life.
Where: 16 Sumner Pl, South Kensington, London SW7 3EG, United Kingdom
ME London by MeliaA short walk from the River Thames, ME London by Melia is a sophisticated, modern hotel. Overlooking Somerset House – A Georgian-era palace that now houses artist studios – chic interior design touches an upbeat atmosphere. Guests can enjoy drinks at the Radio Rooftop Bar, which features sweeping views of London, or if sightseeing is what they have in mind, the hotel is just a 5-minute walk from Trafalgar Square. When it’s time to come back to the hotel and relax, guests will find rooms featuring floor to ceiling windows and deep bathtubs for soaking.
Where: 336 – 337 Strand, London WC2R 1HA England
More like thisLGBTQ TravelThe Best LGBTQ Pubs and Bars in LondonVideo Shows Tourists Almost Lose Kids To Huge Waves at The Eddie While Ignoring Lifeguard Pleas To Get Back
There are few big wave surfing competitions as famous as Hawaii’s The Eddie. While surfers head to Oahu’s North Shore with an understanding of the dangers, spectators who don’t listen to lifeguards can also find themselves in a dangerous situation.
@sea.level OUR LIFEGUARDS KEEP TELL EM. GET OFF DA BEACH. BUT NO LISTEN. Fortunately Nobody was hurt in this video. #bumbaiyoulearn #theeddie #eddiewouldgo #clydeaikau #waimea #waimeabay #oahu #kanaka #hawaii #hawaiiwaterpatrol #bikini #fashion #tiktok #808 #hawaiilifeguards #aloha #sport #bigwaves #gopro #kanaka #eddieaikau #respect #HAWAIIANLIFEGUARDS #drown #playstupidgameswinstupidprizes #swim #videooftheday #photooftheday #gopro #hawaii #letsgo #instagram #tiktok ♬ original sound – Sea Level
A video from January 22 shows tourists who had moved past the caution tape despite a lifeguard ordering them to pick up their gear and move as the waves come in. After the first wave, the crowd still doesn’t back away and another wave comes. You can hear the person filming the video yell “the kids!” and see a child who has to be saved by a lifeguard.
Unfortunately, this is nothing new for Hawaii’s lifeguards. Inexperienced tourists routinely need to be saved — a problem that wouldn’t be as prevalent of an issue if people followed “malama,” which translates to “to care for” and is a responsible practice of living with nature.
@megncheeese Lifeguard was roasting parents life for being a bad parent and not listening to him when he told everyone to get their kids back #theeddie #eddieaikauinvitational #waimeabay ♬ original sound – Meg
The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational is a famous big wave surfing competition held in memory of Hawaiian surfing legend Eddie Aikau. The competition is held at Waimea Bay on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, and is only held when the waves reach a minimum of 20 feet (or 40-foot faces) or higher. The event typically takes place between December and February and is considered one of the most prestigious and challenging big wave surfing competitions in the world.
The Eddie’s strong currents can pull swimmers, surfers, and anyone who gets swept away in the waves away from the shore and make it difficult for them to return to safety. The waves and surges can be unpredictable. Staying out of the water and at a safe distance (which lifeguards will clearly demarcate) is the best way to avoid unnecessary risks and put extra strain on the people working to save lives on the water every day.
If you want to see the competition safely in person, there are guided tours hosted by experts and helicopter tours for an up-high perspective. But the most important thing is always to follow instructions from lifeguards and stay within the designated boundaries.
This Washington Airbnb Is the Perfect Home Base To Explore the Cascade Mountains
Whether planning your next getaway or feeling like it’s time to escape from your everyday schedule, this Airbnb cabin is the perfect location to sit back, relax, and put yourself in do not disturb mode. If you’re looking for a tranquil escape in nature, the Canyon Creek Cabins offer the perfect mix of seclusion and proximity to local attractions with its comfortable accommodations, stunning views, and all the amenities you need for a great vacation.
The Canyon Creek Cabin Airbnb is a unique cabin experience one hour from Seattle in Granite Falls, Washington, tucked away in the Cascade Mountains. The Canyon Creek experience consists of three cabins, each providing a different experience. The Cabin experience in the video below is Cabin number one.
@epic.stays #stitch with @Jordan Richards #Airbnb linked in bioCanyon Creek Cabins in #GraniteFalls #Washington #airbnbfinds #greenscreen ♬ original sound – epic.stays
We hope you love the Canyon Creek Cabins! 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 unique asymmetrical A-frame cabin was originally built as a fishing cabin in the 1970s and is now remolded and expanded into what it is today. The place features wood-clad walls, exposed beams, and large geometric windows. The cabin is perched on a granite ledge and overlooks the river water below, perfect for some soothing sounds to relax or fall asleep to in the background.
The cabin can accommodate up to six guests and has two bedrooms, four beds, and one bathroom. Inside is a spacious living room with stunning views, a fireplace, and a large kitchen and outside is a back deck with views of the river, a dining area, and a hot tub. Along with the amenities, the cabin is pet friendly if guests want to bring their furry friends.
Outside of the Canyon Creek Cabin Airbnb are endless opportunities to explore nature’s beauty. Guests can find nature features and hiking opportunities 20 to 30 minutes away from the cabin, including Gothic Basin, Big Four Ice Caves, Mt. Pilchuck Fire Lookout, Lake Twenty-Two, and Heather Lake. Or, if you want to experience some thrillers close to home, the lake behind the cabin is perfect for experienced kayakers needing to share a bit of a thrill.
To stay at this serene Canyon Creek Cabin Airbnb in Granite Falls, Washington, it’s $300 per night.
7 Parks in San Francisco You Need To Visit on Your 2023 Vacation
San Francisco, California, is known for its stunning beauty, laid-back culture, and numerous unique things to do. And along with that laid-back, let’s-have-a-glass-of-wine-in-the-sun attitude comes a ton of fabulous parks, from neighborhood parks to massive green areas. The best parks in San Francisco include the museum-packed Golden Gate Park and the historic (and newly renovated) Presidio. Most are easy to reach and all offer something uniquely San Franciscan.
If you’re planning your SF trip, make sure to add a few of these options to your travel to-do list.
The best parks in San FranciscoFor being a major US city, San Francisco is surprisingly outdoorsy. SF residents are known for spending weekends biking in Marin County, skiing in Tahoe, or camping in the Sierras, and the best parks in the city are like miniature versions of those outdoor playgrounds. Most parks are accessible via Bay Area Rapid Transit (SF’s public transportation system), but you may still have to walk a bit when exploring some of the larger parks. If you don’t feel like riding BART, rideshares are easy, and it never takes too long to get anywhere since SF is a relatively small city.
Golden Gate Park
Photo: Kropotov Andrey/Shutterstock
Golden Gate Park is a large urban park in San Francisco, covering more than 1,000 acres. It’s home to a variety of attractions, including the California Academy of Sciences, the de Young Museum, and the Japanese Tea Garden. The park also has many walking and biking trails, as well as playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas.
Some other notable attractions within Golden Gate Park include the Conservatory of Flowers, which is home to a collection of rare and exotic plants; the Strybing Arboretum, which has a wide variety of plants and flowers; and the San Francisco Botanical Garden, which features more than 8,000 types of plants (including redwood trees).
In addition to these attractions, Golden Gate Park also has a number of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Outside Lands music festival and the SF Pride Parade. The park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, and it is a great place to spend a day exploring the outdoors in the heart of the city. Don’t be surprised to see locals in hackysack circles and families playing with dogs on every available green space. The park is located just a few blocks from the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, so head there after a day in the park to have dinner.
Dolores ParkPhoto: Nyokki/Shutterstock
Dolores Park is a popular public park located in the Mission District of San Francisco. The park covers more than 14 acres and offers a variety of amenities, including a playground, tennis courts, a basketball court, and a soccer field. The park is also home to several grassy areas that are popular for picnics and sunbathing.
One of Dolores Park’s main attractions are its views. The park sits on a hill, and from certain vantage points, you can see the downtown skyline and the San Francisco Bay. It’s one of the most popular parks in San Francisco for cultural events, festivals, music, and film events throughout the year, during which there are usually food trucks and street vendors nearby. On summer weekends, it can be hard to even find a place to lay your blanket, let alone have space to yourself. It’s very social and very fun, but not the best place for a romantic picnic if you’re looking for space to yourself.
Dolores Park is easily accessible by public transportation, with several bus and streetcar lines serving the park. It’s near several popular neighborhoods, such as the Mission, Noe Valley, and the Castro, which makes it a convenient destination for those staying in the city.
Alamo Square Park
Photo: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock
Alamo Square Park is a small park in the Western Addition neighborhood of San Francisco. The park is best known for the “Painted Ladies,” a row of Victorian houses featured in many movies and TV shows. The houses, just across the street from the park, are painted in bright colors and are a popular tourist attraction.
One of the most famous TV shows to feature the Painted Ladies is Full House, a popular sitcom that aired from 1987 to 1995. In the show, the houses were used as the exterior shots for the home of the main character and his family.
In addition to the Painted Ladies, Alamo Square Park also has a playground and a small grassy area for picnics and outdoor activities. Because of the nearby Victorian houses, it’s a popular spot for photographers, and the off-leash dog play area makes it one of the best dogspotting parks in San Francisco (and there are a lot of dogs in SF). The closest BART station is Civic Center, though it’s still a roughly 20-minute walk.
Crissy Field
Photo: Aeypix/Shutterstock
Crissy Field is a popular park located on the waterfront in San Francisco. The park is near the Golden Gate Bridge and offers beautiful views of the Bay and the Marin Headlands. If you want the quintessential SF photo — a shot of you in front of the Golden Gate Bridge — head to Crissy Field. It has the best views of the bridge from any of the parks in San Francisco (including Golden Gate Park, which doesn’t have bridge views).
Crissy Field was once a military airfield, but it was transformed into a public park in the 1990s. Today, the park is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with a variety of amenities including a beach, a playground, and several walking and biking trails. The park is also home to a number of restaurants and cafes, as well as a visitor center with exhibits about the history of the park and the surrounding area.
In addition to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Crissy Field is also a popular destination for events and festivals. The park hosts a number of music and cultural events throughout the year, and it is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor gatherings. It’s also a popular destination for cycling, and there are several bike rental shops in the area and tours that go from the city to the park and back. Companies like Unlimited Biking run bike tours through Crissy Field and eventually over the Golden Gate Bridge.
The Presidio
Photo: Karin Hildebrand Lau/Shutterrstock
Near Crissy Field is one of the most historic parks in San Francisco: the Presidio. The former military base covers more than 1,500 acres on a bluff overlooking the San Francisco Bay. The park is home to a number of historic buildings, including a number of Spanish colonial-style buildings dating to the late 1700s.
One of the more unique features of the Presidio is the network of walkways that crisscross the park. These walkways were originally built to allow soldiers to move around the base without getting their feet wet during the rainy season. Today, they’re open to the public and are a popular destination for walking, running, and biking. The walkways have views of the park, the Bay, and the surrounding city. Some of the walkways are elevated and offer panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge, while others are located at ground level and pass through wooded areas and gardens.
In addition to the raised walkways, the Presidio also has plenty of other recreational amenities, including several walking and biking trails, scenic overlooks, and cultural attractions, including the Walt Disney Family Museum and the Presidio Officers’ Club.
Lincoln Park
Photo: Aerial-motion/Shutterstock
Lincoln Park is the northwesternmost part of SF. It’s home to several well-known sites, including the Sutro Baths, Lands End, and Mile Rock Beach.
The Sutro Baths were a public bathhouse in SF’s Outer Sunset neighborhood. Built in the late 1800s, the baths were a popular destination for swimming and recreation, and featured several large pools filled with seawater. The baths were housed in a massive glass and steel structure, and were considered a technological marvel at the time of their construction. There was also a museum, a concert hall, and an ice skating rink.
However, the Sutro Baths fell into disrepair in the mid-1900s and were eventually closed to the public. The baths are now in ruins and are a protected historical site. Visitors can still visit the site and explore the remains of the baths, which offer beautiful views of the ocean and the surrounding area.
Just north of the Sutro Baths is Mile Rock Beach, tucked into a small, lovely cove on the coast. This is very near the famous SF rock labyrinth, known as the Land’s End Labyrinth. It was first built in 2004 and has been rebuilt and maintained in some fashion ever since. This is also close to China Beach, which has beautiful sunsets (when it’s not foggy, of course).
Yerba Buena Gardens
Photo: Jose Luis Stephens/Shutterstock
Yerba Buena Gardens is a large park located in the heart of downtown San Francisco. It’s between Third and Fourth Streets and Mission and Folsom Streets, and covers two city blocks. The park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and offers a wide range of cultural and recreational attractions.
One of the main attractions of Yerba Buena Gardens is the Children’s Creativity Museum, a hands-on museum designed for children and families. The museum features a variety of interactive exhibits and activities related to art, technology, and media.
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) is another popular attraction within the park. SFMOMA is one of the largest museums of modern and contemporary art in the United States, and features a wide range of artworks by artists from around the world. Buy your tickets in advance to avoid a long line (it’s $25 for adults and closed on Wednesdays).
The Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (YBCA) is another cultural attraction within the park. YBCA is a multidisciplinary arts center that presents a variety of exhibitions, performances, and events throughout the year, including free public talks from thought leaders and current creative minds from around the world.
In addition to its cultural attractions, Yerba Buena Gardens also features a number of outdoor spaces, including a large lawn area, a fountain plaza, and a number of gardens and landscaped areas. The park is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as picnicking, lounging, and enjoying a sunset drink. It gets crowded, but it’s a pretty area for a break if you’ve been exploring the city all day and need to kick your shoes off for a bit.
Where to stay in San Francisco
Photo: Booking.com/The Beacon Grand
You have no shortage of options of where to stay in San Francisco, so you’ll find a hotel for every price and style. Just keep in mind that the BART system isn’t super extensive, so you may want to get a room in the neighborhood you plan to spend most of your time in. Of course, there are plenty of Airbnbs, too.
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.
The Lodge at the PresidioView this post on Instagram
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If you’re planning on spending lots of time near the Presidio, this is the coolest place to stay. The cool hotel is inside the old military barracks building from the late 1800s and has awesome views out across the water.
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View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Beacon Grand (@beacongrand)
The Beacon Grand offers old-school San Francisco vibes, with a luxe lobby and rooms finished with crown molding and high-end fixtures and finishes. It’s in Union Square, which is in a central part of SF and near the BART, so you can easily get to some of the best parks in Sa Francisco. Most of the rooms still show the property’s historic architecture, and rooms start around $209 a night, plus resort fee and taxes.
Hotel Zephyr San FranciscoView this post on Instagram
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If you’re planning to visit Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz, and the famous sea lions of San Francisco, consider staying at the Hotel Zephyr. It’s just a five-minute walk from Pier 39 and has nautical-themed rooms and harbor views. If you’re looking for something trendy and different from your standard run-of-the-mil chain hotel, it’s a good pick. Rates for a standard king room range from $160 to $600, depending on the day and season.
What You Need To Know Before Tackling the Most Epic Volcano Hike in Guatemala
Located just outside Antigua, Guatemala, is one of the most rewarding hikes in Central America: the Acatenango volcano. This active volcano stands at a staggering 13,000 feet and offers unparalleled views of both the picturesque countryside and its neighboring mountain, the iconic Volcán de Fuego (Volcano of Fire). With miles of trails to explore and some challenging terrain to tackle, it’s no wonder why this hike has become so popular with travelers.
@matadornetwork Hike up #AcatenangoVolcano in #Guatemala and you'll have an amazing view of nearby #FuegoVolcano
The Acatenango volcano hike is not for the faint of heart. The trek begins at a moderate pace but quickly ramps up as you ascend further up the mountain. You’ll need to be in good physical shape to complete this hike as it can take anywhere from 10-15 hours depending on your fitness level. The trail itself is well-marked and easy enough to follow, but it does get quite steep towards the end. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water, food, and protective clothing; temperatures can drop significantly once you reach higher elevations.
The journey up Acatenango is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after you return home. As you make your way higher up the mountain, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of lush forests and rolling hillsides dotted with small farms and villages. You may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Volcán de Fuego spewing lava into the night sky. Once you reach your destination at Campo Morado — a stunning campsite located near the summit — you can relax by a campfire while gazing out over Guatemala’s majestic landscape.
As beautiful as it might be to hike up an active volcano like Acatenango, it’s important to remember that safety should always come first. You should never attempt this hike without a certified guide who knows the area well and can keep an eye on any potential hazards along the way. It’s also important to check local weather conditions before setting off as inclement weather could put you at risk during your ascent or descent.
January 20, 2023
The 7 Best Museums in San Francisco, From Classic To Quirky
Given how colorful, vibrant, modern, and off-beat the city of San Francisco, California, can be, it’s no surprise that museums in San Francisco are equally diverse and exciting.
There’s plenty to do in and around the city, from visiting wine country to seeing redwood trees to tossing a frisbee in Golden Gate Park. But high on the list of the best things about San Francisco is its many museums, so even if the weather is perfect every day you’re visiting, you should still visit at least one or two — or maybe all seven below, especially since some are free.
San Francisco is home to some of the most renowned museums in the world. From the iconic de Young Museum and Legion of Honor to the exploratory California Academy of Sciences, it’d be hard not to find a museum you liked among a list of so many options. But here are seven to get you started.
The best museums in San Francisco for for history buffsThe best museums in San Francisco for the artsThe best museums in San Francisco for science and natureThe best museums in San FranciscoAll the museums listed below are in San Francisco proper. They’re all reachable via Bay Area Rapid Transit (SF’s public transit) or you can get rideshares and taxis fairly expensively — after all, the city is only seven square miles large.
The best museums in San Francisco for history buffsThe Cable Car Museum
Photo: Ersler Dmitry/shutterstock
Few things are more synonymous with SF than the classic cable cars, and the city celebrates them at the San Francisco Cable Car Museum. It’s one of the most unique museums in San Francisco and is in the historic Washington-Mason cable car barn and powerhouse.
It displays hundreds of artifacts and interactive activities related to San Francisco’s cable cars. Visitors can explore how cable cars were constructed, operated, and later restored during the 1970s, or a behind-the-scenes tour to look at how electricity is generated to power the cable cars. Admission is free and guided tours are available throughout the week, though the museum is closed every Monday.
Fee: Free, but donations accepted
Address: 1201 Mason St.
Hours: 10 AM – 4 PM, closed Monday
Alcatraz Island
Photo: Maciej Bledowski/Shutterstock
You’ve probably heard of Alcatraz, the 22-acre island about one mile off the coast of San Francisco. It’s famous for serving as a maximum security prison for criminals like Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly. Today, it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, partially because of the fascinating museums on the island.
After taking a self-guided tour of the prison, stick around to explore the many museums and exhibits in the island’s various buildings. Exhibits range from collections of prisoner’s artifacts and historical items to exhibitions on the history of crime in America to exhibits on the island’s Native American occupation of the 1970s.
To visit the island, you’ll need to take a ferry from Pier 33. Prices start around $42 for adults, depending on what you want to see, and should be purchased online if possible. The SF Bay can be quite choppy and breezy, so pack an extra layer for the boat ride, even if it’s hot outside.
Fee: Accessible only via cruises; prices start at $28 (for kids).
Address: Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing
Hours: Changes seasonally, open daily
Musée Mecanique
Photo: Musée Mecanique
It’s a bit cliché to call something a place both kids and adults will love, but how else do you describe a museum dedicated to all-things-arcade?
This small-but-packed museum is the best in SF for going back in time as the collection has more than 300 items since the beginning of mechanized entertainment. That includes arcade games, coin-operated attractions, fortune-telling machines, vintage dolls, foosball machines, and a host of other very random, very quirky items. The museum started as one person’s personal collection back in the 1930s, but has since ballooned into the impressive spread visitors can see today.
Admission to the Musée Mecanique is totally free, but because it sits near Pier 45, it’s likely that you’ll end up spending some money in the area, anyway — the popcorn carts on the pier are hard to resist.
Fee: Free, but donations accepted
Address: Taylor Street at Pier 45
Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 8 PM
The best museums in San Francisco for the artsThe Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco
Photo: Rafael Ramirez Lee/Shutterstock
The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco comprises two separate museums. One is in Golden Gate Park and the other is northwest of that, near the coastline.
The de Young Museum in San Francisco is a creative, engaging art museum inside Golden Gate Park. It features permanent collections from around the world spanning significant periods of history and cultures dating back to the 17th century, along with rotating special exhibitions; it’s currently an exhibit on Egyptian pharaohs. The gallery space covers 84,000 square feet and includes more than 1,000 pieces of artwork, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs, textiles, and decorative arts. General admission is $15 for adults and can be purchased online in advance, though you may have to pay extra for special exhibits.
The second option is the Legion of Honor, one of the best museums in San Francisco for classic art. It’s about three miles from the De Young. The beaux arts-style museum boasts a collection of over 4,000 European paintings and decorative arts dating back to the Renaissance era. It also has a lovely outdoor sculpture garden and is one of the prettiest buildings in Golden Gate Park. Tickets are also around $15 and should be purchased in advance.
The closest BART (SF public transportation) stop to the museums is the Carl St & Cole St station, which isn’t especially close, but you can ride the Golden Gate shuttle around the park for free.
Fee: Children are free, students are $6, adults are $15, seniors are $12. Extra fees for special exhibits, programs, etc. Admission to the permanent (non-special exhibit) collections is free everyday after 4:30 PM.
Address: De Young: 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr., Legion of Honor: 100 34th Ave.
Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:15 PM, closed Monday
The Asian Art Museum
Photo: Iv-olga/Shutterstock
The Asian Art Museum of San Francisco is one of the largest museums in the country dedicated to the arts and culture of Asia. In SF’s Civic Center area, it features a vast collection of over 18,000 works from Japan, China, Southeast Asia, India, and other parts of Asia. The exhibitions are organized chronologically and geographically with permanent collections focusing on Buddhism and Hinduism. The museum also offers educational programs such as lectures and events that cover topics related to Asian art history and culture. Ticket prices vary depending on the type of exhibition; however, adult tickets generally cost between $15 and $25.
The museum is closed on Tuesday and Wednesday, and you can buy tickets in advance online, though it doesn’t usually sell out. It’s centrally located in the city and is just a five-minute walk from the Civic Center/UN Plaza BART Station.
This awe-inspiring museum is home to one of the most comprehensive collections of Asian art in the world. With over 18,000 artifacts spanning 6,000 years of history, this museum has something for everyone—from ancient jades and bronzes to 19th-century Japanese woodblock prints. Special exhibitions are held throughout the year to showcase unique works from across Asia.
Fee: Youth and students are $14, seniors are $17, adults are $20. Extra fees for special exhibits, programs, etc.
Address: 200 Larkin St.
Hours: Thursday: 1 PM – 8 PM. Friday – Monday: 10 AM – 5 PM. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday
The best museums in San Francisco for science and natureThe California Academy of SciencesPhoto: huangcolin/Shutterstock
Also in Golden Gate Park is the California Academy of Sciences, one of the coolest museums in San Francisco — or in all of California, for that matter. The one-of-a-kind science museum offers an interactive and educational experience for all ages, from a rainforest environment with live animals to a planetarium, an earthquake simulator, a 3D theater, and more. The four-story building includes more than 38,000 square feet of exhibition space and hosts special exhibitions focused on topics such as rainforest ecology, dinosaurs, geology, sharks, penguins and amphibians from around the world.
One thing that makes this museum especially cool are the “nightlife” events hosted throughout the year. There’s a lot of variety in the events, but examples include late-night dance lessons and a Lunar New Year celebration, complete with a tattoo parlor and pop-up restaurants. Tickets for standard museum admission start at $38 for adults.
Fee: Youth are $26.50, students and seniors are $29.50, adults are $34. Extra fees for special exhibits, programs, etc.
Address: 55 Music Concourse Dr.
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5 PM. Sunday: 11 AM – 5 PM.
The Exploratorium
Photo: Exploratorium
Near the city’s famous Embarcadero, The Exploratorium is San Francisco’s flagship museum of science, art, and human perception. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in hands-on exploration, with more than 600 interactive displays dedicated to teaching STEM. Visitors can learn how their brands interpret what their eyes see, create energy with pickles, and make images from solar flares.
While some exhibits certainly are more child-friendly, many are sized for and tailored to adults. Despite that, the museum can turn into a bit of a daycare on weekends when parents let their kids run free, so go midweek if you don’t want to get shoved aside by nine-year-olds. The Exploratorium also has “After Dark Thursdays” from 6 PM to 10 PM, and because the events are 18 and above, it’s a great time to go play with the exhibits without feeling like you’re taking space away from a kid (and on-site bar and museum DJ add a social, adults-only vibe). Tickets sell out often, so buy your admission (daytime or otherwise) in advance online.
Fee: Youth, seniors, and students are $29.50. Adults are $39.95. Extra fees for special exhibits, programs, etc.
Address: Pier 15 Embarcadero (at Green St.)
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM. Sunday: 12 PM – 5 PM.
Where to stay in SF
Photo: Booking.com/Hotel Zetta
San Francisco has some of the coolest hotels in the US and with so many options, it’s usually easy to find something for every budget, even last minute.
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.
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At the top of historic Nob Hill, this iconic hotel offers breathtaking views of the city and bay, as well as luxurious amenities and impeccable service. It’s also known for its basement tiki bar, The Tonga Room, which was one of the first tiki bars in the US.
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Photo: Michael Warwick/Shutterstock
This small hotel is a colorful bed and breakfast in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood of San Francisco, making it close to Golden Gate Park. It’s known for its unique, bohemian decor and laid-back atmosphere. The hotel has just three rooms, and amenities include a communal kitchen, outdoor patio, and an on-site Psychedelic History Museum. This is a great choice if you want to stay in S.F.’s most hippie/alternative neighborhood.
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The Phoenix Hotel is a retro hotel located in the Tenderloin neighborhood. It’s known for its rock and roll history and laid-back vibe, and is a popular choice among travelers looking for something a little different. The hotel has a pool, fitness center, and on-site bar and restaurant. The Tenderloin is a bit up-and-coming, but it’s safe enough, though it’s best not to walk solo very late at night. But since it’s near many of the city’s popular music venues and bars, there are usually plenty of people out. Rooms start around $159 a night and there’s no resort fee.
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This trendy hotel is in the SOMA neighborhood, just a short walk from the Exploratorium. It features a rooftop lounge with panoramic views of the city, as well as a fitness center and on-site restaurant. It’s also close to Union Square and has an on-site bar and billiards room. Rooms are similarly priced to the Phoenix Hotel.
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Add This Magical Asheville Airbnb To Your Bucket List of Airbnb Stays
As you plan your next getaway, consider Asheville, North Carolina. This popular tourist destination is known for its scenic mountain views, outdoor activities, and vibrant culture. An exciting way to explore the city is through Alchemy Airbnb.
Alchemy Airbnb is a part of the seven Airbnb spaces that make up the Earth and Sky Dwellings. This Airbnb is in the Blue Ridge Mountains on a 16-acre parcel in North Asheville and only ten minutes away from Asheville, and accommodates up to four guests.
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We hope you love the Alchemy 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.
Upon arriving at the Alchemy Airbnb, you are greeted by a small tent. Once you approach the front and pull back the flaps-up tent, that’s when the adventure begins. Behind the entrance is a 12-foot-long spiral slide that takes you down to the tent’s base, where the true magic begins.
The Alchemy Airbnb features an open living plan with a small living area, a queen-sized bed, a small pull-out futon, a kitchenette area, and large windows with perfect views. Outside, you will see stunning mountain views, a seating area, and a fire pit perfect for roasting marshmallows under the stars.
If you want to adventure outside the property and into the city, restaurants, grocery stores, and the local welcome center are nearby. This one-of-a-kind property offers guests an opportunity to not only get all the comforts of home in this dwelling but you also get access to some stunning views and the city nearby.
To stay at this Airbnb property, it is $387 per night.
Hike To the Top of 2,000-Foot-Tall Cliffs in This British Columbia Park
British Columbia, Canada’s westernmost province, is one of the most beautiful places on the planet. There’s no shortage of places to hike and stunning viewpoints to explore, but some of them can get pretty crowded. Fortunately, the Enderby Cliffs trail in the Okanagan Valley isn’t very well-known — but it is absolutely gorgeous.
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The Enderby Cliffs Trail is fairly challenging, mostly because of the elevation gain. It gains more than 2,000 feet over the 3.9 mile one-way distance. The gain is pretty gradual, but you’ll definitely feel it in your thighs before you reach the top. It depends on your hiking speed, but you’ll want to budget at least four hours or so. The large cliffs were formed by glacial movement over eons, and you’ll have views of them on the second half of the way up. The trail is relatively easy to follow and there’s a large parking lot at the trailhead. It can get a bit busy on summer weekends, but never as busy as places like Banff or Whistler.
The trail is within Enderby Cliffs Provincial Park, a 5,600-acre park in the Okanagan Valley. It’s about 90 minutes north of Kelowna or 90 minutes south of Revelstoke. The area does get snow in the winter, so it’s best to hike it between May and November, though it varies from year to year. If you do go during the winter, read trail reports to check the snow cover and be prepared to turn back if it gets too deep or slippery.
Hiking from the USUnfortunately, the trail is a little too far from the US-Canada border crossing for most travelers to do in a day — it’s about three hours north of the border. So while you can do it in a day, you’d probably have a much better time if you do it as an overnight and stay in Kelowna. That way, you can take advantage of that part of BC’s awesome agricultural spoils and sneak in a second hike before heading home the next day. Mount Ida is a really nice (and equally challenging) hike just a few minutes’ drive from the Enderby Cliffs trailhead.
About the Okanagan Valley
Photo: Stan Jones/Shutterstock
The Okanagan Valley is known beautiful lakes, mountains, and recreational opportunities. That makes it a popular vacation destination for outdoor enthusiasts, especially since it’s accessible from the Pacific Northwest. The Okanagan Valley is also known for its wine industry, with many wineries producing award-winning wines made from grapes grown in the region’s warm, dry climate. The area is also home to a number of farms and orchards, and is known for its fresh, locally-grown produce.
There are plenty of hotels in the various towns in the valley, but you’ll also find plenty of camping opportunities. You can camp at many of the area’s provincial parks, including Bear Creek Provincial Park and Fintry Provincial Park, among others. Be sure to make your campsite reservations in advance on the Parks BC website.
The White Temple in Thailand Is an Ode To Spirituality and Modern Art
The White Temple (also known as Wat Rong Khun) is an iconic landmark located in the city of Chiang Rai, Thailand. It’s a Buddhist temple built from white concrete and decorated with pieces of mirrored glass, and it’s one of the most recognizable and beautiful temples in Southeast Asia.
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As opposed to many temples in Thailand, which date back centuries, the White Temple was built relatively recently. It was designed by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat and completed in 1997. The temple features a unique blend of traditional Buddhist iconography with modern elements such as broken glass, shards of mirror, and even murals featuring characters from popular movies such as Superman and Spiderman. Despite its modern construction, Wat Rong Khun still follows traditional Buddhist principles, symbolizing purity through its white color and representing heaven on earth through its ornate design.
The main building, known as Ubosot Hall, contains images of Buddha as well as statues that represent various aspects of Buddhism such as enlightenment and reincarnation. There are also several smaller buildings located around the main hall which house more statues and sculptures. All these together create a truly unique experience for visitors to the temple.
Beyond its physical beauty, there are also spiritual aspects to consider when visiting this awe-inspiring temple. Visitors should take time to appreciate the symbolism behind each element of the temple’s design—from the intricate carvings to the statues that line its walls—as they explore this unique site. Additionally, visitors should make sure to follow all rules while visiting so as not to disrespect this sacred place.
The White Temple can be quite busy at times so it’s best to plan your visit ahead of time if you want to avoid long lines or crowds. It’s also important to dress appropriately while visiting; shorts or tank tops are not allowed inside the temple grounds so make sure you bring something more appropriate with you.
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