Matador Network's Blog, page 364
January 12, 2023
This Strenuous Hike in Yosemite Is Worth It for the Epic Views
Yosemite is one of the most popular national parks in the country, with plenty you can do in just 24 hours. If you’re looking for an adventure and want to test your limits, look no further than the iconic Half Dome hike in Yosemite National Park. This 8-mile, round-trip climb is one of the most popular hikes in America, and while it is not for the faint of heart, it is definitely worth the effort if you’re up for a challenge. With stunning views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and countless photo opportunities, this hike will take your breath away – literally.
@matadornetwork The hike up #HalfDome will take you about 5000 feet above #YosemiteValley
@Quin_ & @Jess #yosemiteNP #summerbucketlist #h ♬ original sound – Weemadshazy13
Half Dome is an iconic granite dome in Yosemite National Park, California. It is a popular destination for hikers and backpackers, offering stunning views of the park and a challenging climb to the summit. To hike Half Dome, you must obtain a permit through a lottery system. The lottery opens in March and closes in April, with permits becoming available for purchase in May. Only 300 permits are available daily, and the hike is only allowed from May to October.
The hike to Half Dome is a strenuous 16-mile round trip with an elevation gain of 4,800 feet. The trailhead is located at the Happy Isles Trailhead, and the first part of the hike is a moderate climb up the Mist Trail. After reaching the top of Vernal and Nevada Falls, the trail becomes steeper and rockier as you approach the base of Half Dome. The final ascent to the summit of Half Dome is a steep climb up a series of granite steps and cables. The cables are fixed to the rock and give hikers a handhold as they make their way up the steep slope. The climb can be challenging, especially for those not comfortable with heights, but the views from the top are well worth it.
It is important to note that hikers must be in good physical condition and properly equipped to attempt the hike. Be prepared for the weather, and bring enough food and water.
Half Dome is one of the most popular hikes in Yosemite National Park, and for good reason. The hike offers a challenging climb, stunning views, and an unforgettable experience. If you’re up for the challenge, be sure to plan ahead and secure your permit in advance. Good luck. 
You Can Sleep in a Real-Life Treehouse at This Dominican Republic Hotel
Dominican Tree House Village is a unique, all-inclusive boutique hotel located in the Caribbean island of the Dominican Republic. The resort’s treehouses sit above the rainforest and has multiple open-air buildings connected by swinging rope bridges, making it the perfect place for your rainforest vacation dreams to finally come to life.
Getting to Dominica Tree House Village Hotel isn’t very difficult, but it can be a little time-intensive. The resort is on the northeast side of the island, so the closest international airport (Santo Domingo Las Americas ) is about three hours away. However, you can fly there direct from East Coast cities like Orlando, Miami, Boston, and NYC, so it’s likely going to be the best option for most travelers. The hotel can arrange taxis and pickups for guests; just email them before you arrive.
If you’re coming from elsewhere in the country, look for a domestic flight to Samana El Catey airport, which is much closer.
Rooms at Dominican Tree House VillagePhoto: Domca9/Shutterstock
The Dominican Tree House Village offers a unique range of treehouse-style rooms. All of the rooms come with air conditioning, ceiling fans and private bathrooms. Each room has its own unique features, from thatched roofs to hand-crafted furniture. The rooms also come with private balconies with views of the rainforest, providing an extra layer of luxury. All the rooms are open-air with open-air bathrooms, but there are mosquito nets around the beds (though being above the trees means there aren’t many mosquitos). There are also roomier suites, a family room, and a “classic treehouse”,” which has the best views, but doesn’t have running water (there’s a shared bathroom nearby).
The best time to visit the Dominican RepublicThe best time to visit the Dominican Republic depends on what kind of holiday experience you’re looking for. June through August are the hottest months in the Dominican Republic, with temperatures reaching over 80 degrees F. Winter months are fairly mild with temperatures averaging around 73 F, so it’s still warm enough for outdoor activities, but you may want a sweater at night. It’s also less crowded during that period, which makes sightseeing easier. The rainy season typically occurs from October to December.
How does Dominican Tree House Village’s all-inclusive rate work?
Photo: Don Mammoser/Shutterstock
Dominican Tree House Village offers an all-inclusive rate for its guests. This includes meals, lodging, and some activities. Breakfast and dinner are served in the main restaurant area, and lunch can be enjoyed either in the restaurant or elsewhere on property (or packed to go, if you’ll be out hiking all day). The all-inclusive doesn’t include beer, wine, or drinks — unless you’re happy with bottomless rum drinks, which are included in the cost.
All of the on-property amenities are included, like using the infinity pool and yoga dome, hanging in the social areas, or relaxing on hanging chairs around the outdoor fire pits. And when you book, you can add on extra activities in the area, such as a whale watching tour, a snorkel boat tour to a remote beach, or forested hikes to a waterfall, complete with a rope swing. Rates start at $300 per night, though you can also book packages that include excursions and airport transfers.
This Angels Landing Video Gives a POV of Zion’s Famously Scary Hike
Angels Landing is one of the most iconic landmarks in Zion National Park. It’s in the middle of the park along the famous Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and offers amazing views of the park. But as this Angels Landing video shows, it’s not for the faint of heart (or for anyone with a fear of heights).
The tall rock face known as Angels Landing is accessible only by hiking, and the trail is a great example of the vertical sandstone walls and narrow ridges that make up much of the park. As you can see in that quick Angels Landing video, hikers who make it to the top are rewarded with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment as it’s quite a steep, narrow path.
History of the park and formationsPhoto: Simon Dannhauer/Shutterstock
Angels Landing is named after an early settler in the region, Fredrick Fisher. Some say that Fisher saw a brilliant light radiating from the top of the rock formation one night and referred to it as an “angel landing”. Other say that he saw the formation and declared that it was so tall, “only an angel could land on it.” Either way, the name stuck, and the area has been a popular tourist destination ever since.
The trail to the top is probably the most popular in the park, but still considered to be one of the most challenging hikes in the region, and is not recommended for inexperienced hikers. Despite the difficulty, the trail is well worth the effort, as the views from the top are truly breathtaking.
Angels Landing is composed of Navajo Sandstone, which was laid down in ancient sand dunes millions of years ago. Over time, minerals carried through the dunes eroded some and turned others into rock, including most of Zion’s formations. Tectonic plates then lifted those rocks up, and the Virgin River (which runs through the parks famous “The Narrows” hike) routed itself through the valley, where it still is today. The Zion Canyon of the park is full of interesting geological features, like “The Court of the Patriarchs” and “The Pulpit.”
Hiking Angels Landing
Photo: Jess Kraft/Shutterstock
Hiking Angels Landing is a challenging but rewarding experience. It’s 5.4 miles round-trip and gains about 1,500 feet of elevation, which may sound fairly intermediate, but don’t forget that much of that elevation is along steep single-track with huge cliffs on one side.
The trail starts at the Grotto Trailhead and follows a series of switchbacks up to the base of the formation. From there, hikers must navigate a steep path known as “Walter’s Wiggles”, which leads to a narrow ridge leading up to the summit. The final stretch requires careful balance, as the trail is bordered by steep drop-offs on either side. There’s a chain installed as a handrail, as you can see in the Angels Landing video above, but there’s no guardrail, and you’ll have to release the chain when passing people. Depending on your speed, it’ll take you anywhere between three and five hours to complete.
How to get to there
Photo: Zion National Park/Public Domain
Zion National Park is near Springdale, Utah. The closest airports are St. George, Utah (about an hour away) or Las Vegas, Nevada (about 2.5 hours away). The park has several entrances but you’ll want to enter via the South Entrance to reach the trailhead. If you visit between March and November, you will not be able to drive into the park. You’ll have to take the free Zion Shuttle to the trailhead. If the parking lot near the Visitor Center is full, which is often is, you’ll need to take the town shuttle. Matador has a full guide to the Zion Shuttle system here.
Though it’s not shown in the Angels Landing video above, you’ll need a permit to hike the trail. You should get it online at Recreation.gov, and they do run out, especially on busy days. You can also get a last-minute permit via the same-day lottery, but it’s safest to just do it in advance as part of the seasonal lottery. If you’re unable to get a permit, you can still hike to the lower Scout Lookout.
You Can Visit a Tequila Factory in Mexico and Uncover Its Secrets
If you’re a lover of tequila, there are plenty of great bars, tastings, and tours across Mexico. But if you’re looking for a traditional, luxurious tequila, you must try Clase Azul. This tequila brand is one of the most popular and sought-after on the market and is made in the heart of Mexico. If you are traveling to Mexico, stop by the Clase Azul factory and learn more about this unique Mexican spirit.
@foodwtf Taking a tour of the #ClaseAzul factory in #Mexico . Did you know that each bottle of #tequila is hand painted?
Clase Azul is a luxury tequila brand made at a distillery in Santa Maria, Canchesda. The brand is known for its high-quality tequilas, produced using traditional methods and aged for extended periods. Traditional production methods are a crucial element of the brand’s identity. The brand’s tequilas are made using 100% blue Weber agave grown in the Jalisco region. The agave is cooked in traditional brick ovens and then distilled using copper pot stills. The tequila is then aged in oak barrels for extended periods, giving it its distinct flavor profile. The reposado is aged for eight months in oak barrels, which gives it a smooth and balanced taste.
The brand’s commitment to quality and tradition is evident in every bottle of Clase Azul tequila. Each bottle is hand-crafted and adorned with a hand-painted label, making it a truly unique and luxurious product. Clase Azul tequila is not just a drink but a work of art.
The Clase Azul factory in Mexico offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore one of the country’s best tequilas up close and personal. On this guided tour, travelers can learn about each step in the production process while sampling some genuinely delicious tequilas, making it the perfect choice for your next Mexican adventure.
The Most Famous Pizzeria in Naples Only Serves Two Types of Pizza
Who can forget that scene in Eat, Pray, Love when Julia Roberts sinks her teeth into a slice of authentic Neapolitan pizza, looks at her friend across the table, and says, “I’m in love. I’m having a relationship with my pizza.”
It’s no ordinary pizza she’s eating. The thin, saucy, not-too-cheesy slice her character falls in love with is from L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele in Naples, a renowned pizzeria that’s been around far longer than Eat, Pray, Love author Elizabeth Gilbert published her memoir or Roberts signed on to play her in the film adaptation. Founded in 1870, L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele is one of the oldest pizzerias operating in the city that invented pizza — and its pizzas are often bestowed with the title of Naples’ best.
@foodwtf When in #Naples #Italy be sure to try the legendaryl’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
It's a historic Italian #pizzeria serving up traditional pies
L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele’s flagship pizzeria in Naples is a tiny restaurant that relies on a ticketing system to avoid crushing crowds. Surprisingly, it only serves two types of pizza: marinara with tomato sauce, oregano, and garlic, and margherita with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. The ingredients for both pizzas are sourced from Campania, a town in southern Italy, preserving not only the authenticity but also the taste of every slice that the pizzeria serves.
@foodwtf When in #Naples #Italy be sure to try the legendary
There’s good news for those of us who don’t live in Naples but prefer traditional Neapolitan pizza to the pizza styles you’ll find elsewhere in Italy and around the world: L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele now has multiple locations in the US, too, in New York City, Hollywood, and Santa Barbara, California. All three pizzerias are committed to upholding the recipes and techniques of the original restaurant, and all of their ingredients are important straight from Italy.
Heck, if you eat at Pizzeria Da Michele Hollywood, you might even run into Julia Roberts herself.
Where to find every L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele restaurantNaples: 1 Via Cesare Sersale, Naples, 80139
New York City: 81 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10014
Los Angeles: 1534 N McCadden Place, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Santa Barbara: 1031 State Street Santa, Barbara, CA 93101
An Adrenaline-Pumping Adventure Awaits at Serlesbahnen Mieders Alpine Coaster
Austria is a beautiful country known for its amazing ski resorts. And if you’re looking for an incredible experience that will get your heart racing and blood pumping, look no further than the Serlesbahnen Mieders Alpine Coaster in Austria. This thrilling ride is a one-of-a-kind experience that combines the best of nature and technology to provide you with an unforgettable adventure. This gravity-driven roller coaster offers an exhilarating ride down the mountain while taking in the stunning alpine scenery.
@matadornetwork The #alpinecoaster at #SerlesbahnenMieders in #Austria is a thrill
The coaster features a 9,186 ft. long track that winds through the picturesque alpine landscape, reaching speeds of up to 26 mph, with 2,100 feet of vertical descent and 40 hairpin turns. The coaster has a brake system that allows riders to control their speed and make the experience as thrilling or as leisurely as they wish. The coaster is open almost all year-round, except for some maintenance days, and operates in any weather conditions.
The coaster is family-friendly, and riders can ride alone or in pairs. It’s also environmentally friendly and energy-efficient, using only gravity as the propulsion system. Riders can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making it a popular attraction among locals and tourists.
The Serlesbahnen Mieders Alpine Coaster is a must-do for anyone visiting the Tyrolean Alps. It’s a unique and exciting way to experience the beauty of the mountains, and it’s suitable for all ages and skill levels. This coaster is a perfect choice if you’re looking for an adventure.
This Airbnb in Bali Has a Epic Waterslide Into a Private Swimming Pool
Let’s face it. Bali is such an epic island that sleeping in a box would make an unforgettable vacation. The spiritual hub of Ubud, in particular, with its dense forests and sweeping landscape of checkered rice paddies, is one of the most special places on Earth. And although camping out would suffice you really don’t need to. And we mean really.
Bali is home to some of the most stunning Airbnb rentals on the market and this whopping three-story, six-bedroom mansion with a waterslide proves that.
@epic.stays #stitch with @thatbalibitch
We hope you love Jungle Views Villa Bali. 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.
On arrival, you’ll be greeted by your personal butler who will show you around your new three-story vacation rental. The front door opens up into a vast living space that looks out onto the outdoor pool and views of the jungle.
Photo: Airbnb
All six ensuites are luxurious, have stunning views and vast outdoor areas and come with a comfortable queen-sized bed. There’s also a smaller toilet downstairs close to the pool area for use. The Airbnb costs an average of $520 per night…yes you read that correctly. That means if you have a group of 12 adults, it’s just over $40 per person per night.
Photo: Airbnb
The crowning jewel is the epic waterslide that begins at the top of the villa and ends in the semi-circle lounge pool below.
Photo: Airbnb
And if you’d really like to level up your stay here, you can add on extra services. At $520 per night you should be able to treat yourself to a floating breakfast in the pool, right?
Included services and staff with Jungle Views Villa BaliA dedicated villa manager.A personal butler.Daily housekeeping.Garden and pool maintenance staff.Added extras for Jungle Views Villa BaliFor an additional cost, you can add these special touches to your stay. Note that you will need to give the property management advance notice if you’d like to organize any of the following perks.
Pre-stocking of groceries and drinks.A personal in-villa chef.Floating breakfast at an additional cost of $25 per person.Flower arrangements or other personal touches.A private driver.Airport transfers from Ngurah Rai International Airport.Port transfers if arriving by boat from a neighboring island.Visiting massage service.Baby-sitting.External laundry.Personal security.More like thisEpic StaysThis Magnificent Airbnb Mansion in Bali Is More Affordable Than You Think
This Art Installation Is a Giant Pool Where You Definitely Can’t Swim
Balancing practicality and beauty is the character of an excellent architect but it’s not a feat that artists strive to achieve — art needs no function, it just exists to be art. In the case of “Rain Oculus”, an art installation located in Singapore, it took both the wits and skills of an excellent architect (Moshe Safdie) and that an open-minded artist (Ned Kahn) to accomplish the amazing result we can gawk at today.
@visitRain Oculus in Singapore
A large whirlpool forms inside a 70 foot diameter acrylic bowl and falls 2 stories A large whirlpool forms inside a 70-foot diameter acrylic bowl and falls 2 stories to a pool below. The artwork, a collaboration with architect Moshe Safdie, functions as both a skylight and a rain collector. The rain water is recycled back to the whirlpool and also fills a canal that runs through the atrium. The pumps that direct water into the bowl are turned on and off a few times an hour so the whirlpool is always changing in shape and intensity. At peak flow rates there are 8000 gallons per minute falling through the atrium and 200 tons of water swirling around in the bowl. Extensive prototyping and engineering went into integrating the artwork into the structural and mechanical systems of the building. Completed in 2011. Would you visit?
Indeed, “Rain Oculus” is a mesmerizing art piece, a rain collection system, and a skylight. It consists of two round pools: One transparent pool outside measuring 70 feet in diameter and containing about 200 tons of water that swirls in an intense whirpool, and pool inside the Marina Bay Sands resort, two floors below the first one. The indoor pool receives the water that flows out from the outdoor one.
Photo: MooNam StockPhoto/Shutterstock
The outdoor transparent pool allows light to shine into this corner of the Marina Bay Sands resort, but it also attracts crowds who want to see the power of this manmade urban waterfall that can gush out up to 8000 gallons of water per minute.
The indoor pool is connected to a canal that runs through The Shoppes, the shopping area of the Marina Bay Sands resort. Visitor can even take a ride on the canal and around “Rain Oculus” in a sampan, a small traditional Chinese boat.
The water used for “Rain Oculus” and the canal comes from rainfall collected in the outdoor pool, and is constantly being reused for the purpose of this art piece.
If you find yourself in Marina Bay Sands (home to the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool) make sure to check both elements of this art piece, the outdoor and the indoor one, to get a complete picture of the stunt that the artist and architect successfully performed.
No matter how appealing taking a dive in either pool might be to you, do not attempt it. It is dangerous and forbidden.
For $120 Book This Airbnb With Views Over the Pyramids of Giza
The Pyramids of Giza along with the Sphinx and a few smaller tombs have captivated travelers for centuries with their breathtaking beauty and enduring mystery. Located in Cairo, Egypt, the Pyramids were built as grand tombs for Egyptian pharaohs almost 5000 years ago at the beginning of human recorded history and are among some of the most impressive structures ever created by mankind. However, when visiting the world heritage site you will be jostling for a view. This Airbnb called Hi Pyramids, solves that problem. From the comfort of the living room windows and balcony, you can enjoy a private view over the epic construction.
We hope you love Hi Pyramids. 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 Can you believe this #Airbnb is only $120/night
Located a short five-minute walk from the entrance gates to the Pyramids and the Sphinx, this apartment is situated in a peaceful development. It’s also a short stroll away from shops, resultants and a large shopping mall.
It’s an ideal place to book if you are visiting Giza with a group as it sleeps six adults with three beds and one bathroom. Two of the bedrooms have twin single beds and the other a comfortable queen.
The apartment is air-conditioned, has fast WiFi, a washing machine, and plush Egyptian cotton linen. The kitchen is also fully stocked and although there is no stove; it has a microwave and coffeemaker.
The selling point is, of course, the balcony view over the pyramids. It’s here where you can take in the view over a morning coffee or a sunset cocktail.
The apartment costs an average of $120 per night.
What to do at the Pyramids of Giza Visit the three pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure.Go at night and enough the sound and light show.Take a photo with the Sphinx from the viewing platform.Marvel at the Valley Temple located next to the Sphinx.Visit the Solar Boat.Visit Panoramic Point, one of the best viewpoints of the pyramids of Giza.More like thisArchaeologyThe Largest Pyramid in the World Isn’t in Egypt. It’s in Mexico.
Stroll To Joshua Tree National Park in Minutes From This Cute Tiny House Airbnb
In the desert of Southern California lies Joshua Tree National Park, home to sone of nature’s most remarkable sights — towering red rock formations and iconic spiky trees. The area is renowned for its dramatic beauty, captivating views, and dark skies. Staying overnight in the park is a serial experience and the increase of unique Airbnbs in Joshua Tree has made this a lot easier. We’ve looked at rentals ideal for Coachella and Airbnbs for families or groups, and now let’s check out this epic tiny house that is a short eight-minute walk from the park gates.
We hope you love the Joshua Tree tiny house. 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 This 300sqft #tinyhome is located in #JoshuaTree #California
This mid-century modern tiny house is 300 square feet in size. And although it’s little, it has all the luxuries and comforts you find in a larger rental. With super fast internet, it also makes for an ideal base if you are considering a workcation to California.
Photo: Airbnb
The Joshua Tree tiny house sleeps four guests with one memory foam double bed and a comfortable pull-out Article sleeper sofa. Guests rave about the care and details the owner has put into the Airbnb stating it feels like a home away from home.
Photo: Airbnb
The kitchen is kitted out of you’d like to cook and the living area has a large flat-screen smart TV where you can chill after a day exploring the park. And the new outdoor hot tub and pergola offer relaxation and shade from the desert sun.
When to visit Joshua Tree National ParkTake advantage of the moderate temperatures and fewer crowds by visiting in winter or early spring. The high season runs from February to May, while the low season is during summer. Be aware, however, that although you can avoid busy periods, it may be uncomfortably hot.
The best hikes in Joshua Tree National ParkExperience the beauty of Joshua Tree National Park with four remarkable trails. Hidden Valley is a one-mile loop showcasing various rock formations. Cholla Cactus Garden takes you through an area dotted by uniquely shaped cacti. The 2.5-mile Split Rock Loop offers views of its namesake boulder, as well as Face Rock’s enigmatic expression. Finally, Ryan Mountain will take your breath away with its 1000-foot elevation gain and panoramic vista from atop this three-mile hike.
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