Matador Network's Blog, page 361
January 5, 2023
This Copacabana Beach Hotel Has The Most Epic Rooftop Pool
The Janeiro Hotel in Rio de Janeiro is a luxurious boutique hotel located right in the heart of the city. With views of Sugarloaf Mountain and nearby beaches, it’s easy to see why this destination is so popular with travelers. Guests can enjoy first-class amenities such as an outdoor pool, spa and fitness center, 24-hour room service, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The hotel also offers a variety of restaurants, bars, shops, and cafes for guests to explore. For a truly unique experience, the Janeiro Hotel also has an on-site art gallery featuring pieces from local artists.
The Janeiro Hotel in Rio de Janeiro features a spectacular rooftop pool, offering guests the opportunity to take in breathtaking views of the city from high above. The rooftop pool is heated and surrounded by lush trees and foliage, creating an oasis-like atmosphere for guests to enjoy. Lounge chairs provide the perfect spot to soak up some sun or relax with a refreshing drink. The rooftop pool also offers a jacuzzi and bar area, perfect for having a cocktail while admiring the view.
@epic.stays Incredible pool view of #CopaCabana beach fromJaneiro Hotel in #RiodeJaneiro #Brazil
IG: @caroldalmo #braziltravel #traveltiktok #luxuryhotels #infinitypool #rooftoppoolview ♬ Magalenha – La Banda Latina
We hope you love the Janeiro Hotel! 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.
What to do on Copacabana BeachThe Janeiro Hotel is also conveniently located near one of Rio de Janeiro’s must-see attractions: Copacabana Beach. With its powdery white sand, blue waters, and vibrant nightlife, the beach is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The hotel can arrange activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, hiking tours, watersports, and bike rentals. Guests can also take advantage of the nearby restaurants and bars for a fun night out.
The iconic Copacabana Beach is surrounded by plenty of attractions and activities. Visitors can explore the nearby Botanical Garden, a stunning oasis filled with lush tropical plants. Those interested in culture should visit the modern art museum or join an interactive tour to learn about local customs and traditions. Shopping enthusiasts will love exploring the boutiques, galleries, and antique stores in the neighborhood. For an unforgettable experience, visitors can also take a helicopter tour over Rio de Janeiro to get a bird’s eye view of the city. No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, there is something for everyone near Copacabana Beach.
AccommodationsThe Janeiro Hotel offers a variety of accommodations to suit any traveler’s needs. The hotel features spacious, air-conditioned rooms with stunning views of the city skyline and nearby beaches. Each room includes modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, mini bars, coffee makers, and comfortable beds.
For larger groups or families, the Janeiro Hotel also offers additional accommodation options. These include two-bedroom suites with panoramic views of the city and beach, as well as apartments for longer stays. Guests can also enjoy access to the hotel’s private lounge and pool area. 
The Rose Valley Is One of Türkiye’s Most Otherworldly Landscapes
Rose Valley, located in the Cappadocia region of Türkiye, is a must-see destination for anyone interested in exploring the country’s stunning natural beauty. The valley was formed by erosion from wind and water over millions of years and is home to numerous rock formations, caves, and tunnels that provide visitors with a captivating display of geology. From its breathtaking natural scenery to its rich archaeological history, this magical valley is a must-see destination for anyone traveling through Türkiye.
@matadornetwork #Cappadocia in #Türkiye is one of the top places to visit in the country. You can hike for days through all the caves and unique rock formations #placestovisitinturkey #turkeytravel #showmeabeautifulview ♬ A beautiful view. Bitter sweet symphony – Laly | granola vibes + more
Rose Valley’s landscape is truly one of a kind. Its towering rock formations are the result of lava flow from volcanoes thousands of years ago combined with the erosion from wind and rain over time. These remarkable rock formations have created an array of unique shapes, colors, and textures that make it one of the most beautiful sites in all of Türkiye. One popular formation is known as “the castle” due to its shape resembling a tower or fortification wall. You’ll also find Fairy Chimneys—tall conical rocks with unique shapes created by wind and water erosion — as well as colorful cliffs and canyons, lush green fields, and beautiful vineyards.
Rising up more than 900 meters above sea level, Rose Valley provides hikers with some amazing views and trails to explore. There are several trails ranging from easy to difficult; however, they can be quite challenging so it’s important to come prepared with enough food and water for the duration of your hike. The more difficult trails should only be attempted by experienced hikers as they often involve steep climbs up rocky terrain which can be dangerous if not done properly.
The area was once home to many ancient civilizations, including the Hittites, Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines. Today, visitors can explore several ancient sites scattered throughout the valley including churches carved into rocks, monasteries built into caves, and other ruins from long ago. These sites are sure to leave travelers with a sense of awe and appreciation for this valley’s past inhabitants.
How To See Cloud Waterfalls in New Zealand
New Zealand is well-known for its beautiful natural scenery, and one of the most stunning sights you can find there is cloud waterfalls. These captivating cascades are a phenomenon that occurs when a strong wind blows over the top of a waterfall, causing it to form misty clouds. These cloudy curtains are made up of millions of tiny droplets that shimmer in the sunlight, creating an ethereal atmosphere. In fact, many people describe them as looking like smoke or fog instead of water.
@visit Camping beneath a cloud waterfall, only in New Zealand
@Jason Charles Hill #campingtok #newzealandtravel #campingvibes #thegreatoutdoors ♬ original sound – Visit
The most popular place to experience cloud waterfalls is Queenstown, which is located on the South Island of New Zealand. The area is known for its spectacular scenery and stunning natural beauty, and it’s home to some of the most impressive cloud waterfalls in the world. There are also several other areas around the country where you can find these amazing natural wonders, including Milford Sound and Abel Tasman National Park, and Fox Glacier. Each site is unique and offers its own incredible views. For instance, the waterfall at Milford Sound is particularly special because it cascades from a rocky overhang that towers high above the valley below. At Mount Taranaki, visitors can get up close and personal with the waterfall by following an easy hiking trail that leads straight to its base. And lastly, Fox Glacier offers an awe-inspiring view as its waterfall cascades down a steep mountainside before spilling into a tranquil pool of crystal-clear blue water below.
It’s important to note that cloud waterfalls aren’t always visible due to changes in weather or seasonal conditions. If you plan on visiting one of these locations during your trip to New Zealand, make sure you check local forecasts before you go so you know what kind of conditions to expect. Additionally, it’s important to take safety precautions while exploring any remote areas – wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water with you just in case.
This Gorgeous Luxury Hotel in Albania Costs Less Than $100 Per Night
When was the last time that you were able to book a night in a luxury hotel without wincing at the price? Probably never. But if you’re willing to go off the beaten path for your next European vacation, you might be able to score the deal of a lifetime by staying at Mrizi i Zanave Agroturizëm, an opulent hotel located in Albania.
@epic.stays This is what $100/night can get you in #AlbaniaThis suite is the deluxe room at
While far from a hot tourist spot, Albania is quickly gaining recognition from travelers who are not afraid to try out something new and unexpected. After all, Albanian beaches are pretty spectacular; the remains of the ancient city of Butrint rivals with the archeological wonders you’ll see in Greece and Italy; and if Mrizi i Zanave Agroturizëm is anything to go by, there are some very fine hotels available for very little money.
Mrizi i Zanave Agroturizëm is part of an agritourism movement that is taking place in the town of Fishte in the Lezhë District, in the northwest part of the country. Mrizi i Zanave Agroturizëm is located on a farm and provides farm-to-table meals, including breakfast the price of which is covered when guests book a room.
But the most exciting part about Mrizi i Zanave Agroturizëm is the beauty of the property: A traditional-looking home with exquisite modern architectural elements set in the middle of a magnificent landscape. There are immense glass panes embedded in stone walls; bedrooms with wood beam ceilings, wooden beds, and sleek, modern showers; and an outdoor patio under a large pergola covered in grapevines.
And you won’t need to break the bank to stay in this luxury hotel. A Deluxe Room with a double bed will cost you $74 per night, and a Budget Twin Room with three large double beds will only set you back $85. There are also Deluxe Rooms set up for two adults and one children with one double bed and one twin bed ($107), and Family Rooms ($101) with one double bed and two bunk beds. Breakfast and taxes are included in the price.
If you decide to book a stay at Mrizi i Zanave Agroturizëm, know that Matador may collect a small commission. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
January 4, 2023
Tupper Lake Is the Best Place for a Family Vacation in the Adirondacks
In the Adirondack Mountains lies Tupper Lake, a village known for fishing and hiking – and a fledgling craft beer scene. However, what differentiates this town from others in this region – which is already well known for outdoor adventure – is that it’s one of the best places in New York state for family adventure.
Start your adventure at The Wild Center, a kid-friendly immersive nature museum where families can experience a trail of bridges built in the treetops of the Adirondack forest, or embark on a guided canoe trip.
If you have older kids in the family who are ready for a hiking challenge, try Tupper Lake Hiking Triad, a series of three mountain hikes. The well maintained trails are safe for kids, and can be completed in summer and winter.
You probably won’t be able to resist heading out on to the lake itself, either. For canoeing and kayaking, try the Tupper Lake Paddling Triad. This series of three pathways through the lake might take you past otters – and are fit for expert and beginner paddlers.
Don’t let winter weather hinder your appetite for adventure. Just grab your winter coats and head to the James C. Frenette Recreational Trails. Not only do these trails offer beginner hiking trails that are appropriate for kids not ready to take on miles of mountain hiking quite yet, but winter time activities include snowshoeing and sledding.
Fishing is one of the most popular recreational activities in Tupper Lake. Make it family friendly by embarking on ice fishing adventures on Little Wolf Pond or Raquette Pond. You can grab your gear in town, as well as a fishing permit.
In the summer, the place to be in Tupper Lake is Little Wolf Beach – sometimes known as the town’s “hidden gem.” There’s a floating dock, playground, and even a designated area for toddlers to swim, so your littlest ones are welcome, too.
Another must-visit spot in Tupper Lake is Bog River Falls. There are scenic pathways on either side of the falls to take in the view, and flat rocks line the shore where your kids can climb or enjoy a picnic lunch.
One adventure that will fill your family with wonder is stargazing at Tupper Lake. Families can head to Adirondack Sky Center & Observatory for the chance to use one of the on-site telescopes, or drive to scenic spots like Rock Island Bay to see the dazzling stars reflected off the lake.
Four Reno Day Trips You Need To Add To Your Northern Nevada Getaway
Reno, Nevada is a vibrant city with plenty of entertainment options. The area boasts a host of trendy restaurants and bars, along with casinos offering gaming, live music, comedy shows and more. There are also numerous cultural offerings, including world-class museums, performing arts venues, and galleries, plus nearby historic towns like Virginia City and fabulous nearby mountain biking and hiking.
When it comes to Reno day trips, there are plenty of outdoor activities to explore. From picturesque ski resorts and hiking trails to Lake Tahoe’s sandy beaches and hot springs, there’s plenty to fill a vacation. But these are four of the best.
Lake Tahoe
Photo: TopSeller/Shutterstock
Just an hour away from Reno is Lake Tahoe, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by breathtaking scenery. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities, like skiing and snowboarding in the winter months, as well as hiking and biking in the summer. Visitors can also explore beautiful beaches, hot springs, and a variety of water sports. In the winter, it’s well-known for ski resorts like Palisades Tahoe, Northstar California, and Sugar Bowl Resort.
The closest Reno day trips for skiers will be to the two resorts on the Nevada side of the north shore: Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe, and Diamond Peak. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are also good Tahoe winter adventures.
The north shore of Lake Tahoe is about 30-45 minutes from Reno, depending on where you want to go. But know that snowy weather in the winter can greatly slow the drive, or sometimes completely close the roads, so check the status of Highway 80 (to Truckee) and Mt. Rose Highway (to Incline Village) if you’re hoping to drive to the lake during a storm. You will definitely need a car with AWD and snow tires or chains.
Fly GeyserPhoto: Lukas Bischoff Photograph/Shutterstock
If you want your Reno day trips to take you to the area’s best natural wonders, consider visiting Fly Geyser in Black Rock Desert. Located about two hours from Reno, the geyser is a fascinating site to explore. It was created accidentally in 1964, when well water mixed with geothermal energy and began flowing up through the earth’s surface. Today, the geyser stands about five feet tall, with terraced pools and a rainbow of colors. It’s an incredible sight to see in the Nevada desert, one Reno visitors won’t want to miss.
Fly Geyser is located on private land, so it requires prior permission to visit. The best way to arrange this is through Friends of the Black Rock Desert, which offers guided tours to the geyser. The tours include a walk and access to the site, with knowledgeable guides providing insight into the area’s human and geologic history.
Black Rock Desert
Photo: Travel Nevada /Sydney Martinez
The Black Rock Desert is a vast expanse of Nevada desert, and Reno day trips to the area allow visitors to explore its stunning landscape. It’s home to Fly Geyser, as well as other natural wonders like Humboldt Peak and Fossil Hill. It’s a long Reno day trip (about 100 miles) so you may want to camp or stay overnight at a nearby hotel. The area around the Black Rock Desert usually isn’t very crowded outside of August, when the annual Burning Man Festival happens.
The Black Rock Desert is best explored on foot or by four wheel drive vehicle, so be sure to plan your Reno day trip accordingly. Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the desert can be very hot and dry. It’s also home to a variety of wildlife, so take extra precautions when exploring the area and be sure to practice Leave No Trace principles.
David Walley’s Hot Springs Resort
Photo: Travel Nevada /Sydney Martinez
Now called the “Holiday Inn Club Vacations David Walley’s Resort, an IHG Hotel,” this hot-spring resort in Gardnerville, Nevada is just under an hour from Reno. It has one large heated outdoor pool and five thermal water spas; the hottest is about 104 degrees. If you’re visiting as a Reno day trip, you can buy a day pass to the pools without reservations; just roll up and pay the day pass fee.
This is one of the best Reno day trips to plan toward the end of your trip as the hot water can be really relaxing for muscles tired from a few days of skiing or hiking. Unlike more natural hot springs, this one requires swimsuits, so pack accordingly.
Visiting This Remote National Park Is Like Hiking Through a Martian Landscape
Tsingy National Park (full name: The Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park) is a national park in Madagascar. The name “tsingy” comes from a Malagasy word meaning “walking on tiptoes,” which is an apt description of the landscape of the park. It is known for its unique karst formations, formed by rain that dissolved the soft limestone over time, creating sharp, rocky spires.
It’s one of the wildest looking places on earth and a must-visit national park for hikers who love exploring the world’s most unique places on foot. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to endemic species like bamboo lemurs and the rare fossa (similar to a large weasel mixed with a house cat).
How to reach Tsingy National Park
Photo: takmat71/Shutterstock
Getting to Tsingy National Park isn’t easy. You’ll first need to travel to Madagascar, then make the 14-hour drive from the capital city of Antananarivo to the western part of the island, near the town of Bekopaka. There’s a daily shuttle with Cotisse Transport that you should book in advance. You can also charter a flight to the park; they are, as you might expect, not cheap. However, they are much quicker and allow you to see the park in a single day trip. If you go that route, book with a reputable company like Cactus Tours.
If you book an organized tour, you’ll probably also visit other nearby areas like the stunning Avenue of the Baobabs.
Hiking in the park
Photo: ScottYellox/Shutterstock
If you’re gotten yourself to Bekopaka, rather than going as part of a tour, you’ll need to arrange another tour or guide to visit the park. It can only be visited with a guide, so you can’t walk in by yourself. There are no roads or other forms of transportation within the park, so travel on foot is basically your only option.
Most of the popular hikes in the park are in the namesake features: the Great Tsingy and Little Tsingy. These are the two area of the park with the jagged and sharp limestone formation shown in the video above. In the last decade or so, the country added dozens of rope bridges and various assists for moving across the tsingies, but you should still be prepared for a very physical hike. The Tantely and Andadoany circuits are the easiest in the region, while the hardest is probably the
How to visit
Photo: Pierre-Yves Babelon/Shutterstock
The park is only open between mid-April and mid-November as the winter rainy season can render transportation impossible (and have an increased risk of flash flooding). At the park visitor center, you’ll have to pay both an entrance fee (usually around 55,000 Malagasy Ariary, or $12). You’ll then need to sign up for a tour which has an extra fee. The park website lists all the available options. At the Tsingy National Park visitor center, you can also arrange other activities like boat tours or cave walks.
You can also buy your park tickets at the tourist office in Antananarivo before heading to Bekopaka.
Discover Stunning Crater Lakes at This Extinct Volcano Outside Mexico City
Ever wanted to experience an extinct volcano up close? All you need to do is take a day trip from Mexico City, to Nevado de Toluca. Although the volcano is no longer active (which makes it safe to visit), it does offer exceptional views of several turquoise crater lakes. You might even see snow.
Nevado de Toluca is the fourth highest peak in Mexico, just outside the city of Toluca. It’s about a three hour drive from Mexico City. If you’re staying in Mexico City, a hike on Nevado de Toluca might be just what you need from fresh hair and a break from the chaos of city life.
It might be counterintuitive if you’re in Mexico, but if you plan to visit Nevado de Toluca, you need to pack a few layers. It gets cold up on the mountain, so bring a warm jacket, a hat, and perhaps even a scarf and gloves. The peak of the mountain is sometimes even dusted with a light layer of snow – an uncommon site in Mexico.
How to get to Nevado de TolucaIf you have a car, the journey is easy – simply hop in your car and drive from Mexico City, until you get to Toluca, then follow the signs to the volcano. Public transportation makes it easy to get there too though: You can take the Flecha Roja buses from either the Observatorio or the Central del Norte bus station in Mexico City, headed toward Toluca. From there, you can either take a taxi or a bus to the basecamp.
From basecamp, the camp is a four hour walk, so you’re committing to a grueling hike if you take that route. If you have a car, you drive all the way to the car park near the top of the volcano (or ask the taxi to drop you there) – saving you the longer hike – but it shuts down when it snows. Basecamp is also where you’ll have to pay the entry fee into the volcano.
Whether you’re driving or hiking to the peak, keep in mind that the air thins out as you gradually enter higher elevation, which causes some people to feel nauseous and dizzy.
The car park is located near the Nevado de Toluca’s famous crater turquoise crater lakes. From the car park, there’s a short hike to the peak which overlooks the lakes. Because of the elevation, you’ll want to take this hike slowly – even though it shouldn’t be too taxing for people who are in good shape. From there, there are rocky (not well maintained paths) that lead down to the shores of the lakes if you want to take a closer look at the water.
One travel blogger who has been there before recommends bringing along change for the toilets located near the car park, as well as your own lunch and water, because there is only one small stall near the peak selling snacks.
The Views From the Highest Via Ferrata in the World Are Jaw Dropping
For those seeking an adventure unlike anything they’ve ever experienced before, look no further than Laojun Mountain via ferrata. With its breathtaking views and challenging terrain, this is sure to be an unforgettable experience for all levels of adventurers — from beginners just getting started with mountaineering to seasoned veterans looking for something truly special.
@visit The via ferrata on China's Laojun Mountain is one of the highest in the countryIG @chinainsider #viaferrata #Laojun #chinatravel #climbingtok ♬ original sound – Visit
The Laojun Mountain via ferrata route is one of the most popular routes in China. It stretches over 800 meters and is a mix of rock climbing and hiking. The entire route takes around six to eight hours to complete, depending on your skill level and physical fitness. Along the way, climbers can expect to traverse a variety of terrain including steep slopes, narrow passages, ladders, and even sections of natural rock wall. This makes it an ideal route for experienced climbers looking for something a bit more challenging than the usual hike.
During your ascent, you will be surrounded by lush mountain forests filled with vibrant greenery and wildflowers as you make your way up the mountain path. If you’re lucky enough to ascend during sunrise or sunset, you’ll be treated to spectacular hues of pink, orange, purple, and yellow painted across the sky. Also keep an eye out for rare wildlife such as golden snub-nosed monkeys and black bears that inhabit this area.
While the route is considered moderate in difficulty, it’s important to be aware of some safety precautions before attempting the climb. As with any climbing excursion, before embarking on your journey up the mountain climbers should wear appropriate footwear (sturdy shoes with good grip) as well as long pants and sleeves for protection against scrapes or falls. It’s also important to have an experienced guide who can provide tips and advice throughout the climb — especially when approaching more difficult sections of the route.
This Kyoto Hotel Blends History With Luxury Amenities
Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital city, is steeped in history and culture. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994, the city has been inhabited since 794 A.D. and was the imperial capital of Japan for more than a thousand years until 1868. AOI Hotel Kyoto is located in close proximity to many of the city’s most famous landmarks, making it the perfect base for exploring Kyoto’s rich culture and history.
@epic.stays #Kyoto is a popular city in #Japan known for its Buddhist temples, gardens and imperial palacesBe sure to start your trip at
We hope you love the AOI Hotel Kyoto! 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.
About the hotelThe AOI Hotel in Kyoto is a luxurious 5-star accommodation that offers guests an unforgettable experience. Located in the picturesque Higashiyama district, AOI Hotel offers guests stunning views of the local area and nearby attractions such as Fushimi Inari Shrine. Guests can also enjoy easy access to some of the city’s most popular cultural attractions such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Kyoto Imperial Palace.
The AOI Hotel offers a range of modern amenities and services to ensure that guests have an enjoyable stay. Guests can choose from one of two restaurants – Aoi Restaurant, which serves Japanese cuisine, or Ippudo Aoi, which serves a range of international dishes. Aoi Spa is also available, offering indulgent treatments and relaxation facilities. AOI Hotel also provides free Wi-Fi access throughout the hotel.
The AOI Hotel in Kyoto is the perfect destination for travelers looking for an unforgettable stay in Japan’s ancient capital city. With its luxurious amenities, stunning views and convenient location, AOI Hotel is sure to make your trip to Kyoto an unforgettable one.
Rooms at the AOI Hotel KyotoThe AOI Hotel Kyoto offers guests a range of comfortable and stylish accommodation options to suit all tastes. Guests can choose from Standard, Deluxe or Suite rooms, each with its own private balcony offering stunning views of the city. All rooms come equipped with high-quality amenities such as air conditioning, satellite TV and complimentary Wi-Fi access. AOI Hotel also offers a range of additional services, including laundry and dry cleaning.
What to do near the AOI Hotel KyotoThe AOI Hotel in Kyoto is located near some of the city’s most famous attractions, making it a great base to explore the area. A few of the top places to visit include:
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s most famous temples.
• Fushimi Inari Shrine – A Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice and sake, featuring thousands of vermillion torii gates.
• Kyoto Imperial Palace – A large complex that was once the residence of Japan’s imperial family.
• Gion District – A historic geisha district with traditional wooden buildings, shops and restaurants.
• Nijo Castle – A magnificent castle that was built in the early 17th century.
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