Matador Network's Blog, page 367
January 9, 2023
This Ranch in Köngäs, Finland Offers Stunning Views of the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are one of the most sought sites in Nordic countries, with plenty of special ways to see them if you come at the right time of year. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, look no further than Northern Lights Ranch in Köngäs, Finland. This ranch has become a popular destination for travelers wanting to catch a glimpse of the stunning natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights.
Köngäs is located in northern Finland and is known for its picturesque landscape of snow-covered fields and forests. Located just outside the small village of Köngäs, Northern Lights Ranch offers visitors an opportunity to experience their surroundings while taking in one of nature’s most mysterious sights—the Aurora Borealis or “Northern Lights”. The ranch consists of several cabins and an outdoor area with seating and fire pits so guests can relax comfortably while watching the lights dance in the night sky.
At NorthernLights Ranch, guests will be able to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of their surroundings. There are plenty of activities available for those who want to explore more deeply – including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and guided tours – or you can sit back and enjoy the view. The cabins offer cozy beds and all the necessary amenities, making it easy to settle into your own private winter wonderland. Plus, with Wi-Fi access throughout the property, you won’t have to worry about missing out on any news or updates from home!
Of course, no visit to Northern Lights Ranch would be complete without seeing the Aurora Borealis. With its unique location near the Arctic Circle, Köngäs experiences some of the most spectacular displays of this natural light show anywhere on earth – often visible even during daylight hours! Whether you come alone or with friends and family, you can rest assured that your visit will be filled with magical moments you’ll never forget.
When it comes to experiencing one of nature’s most beautiful spectacles, there’s no better place than Northern Lights Ranch in Köngäs, Finland. From cozy cabins surrounded by snowy fields and forests to amazing views of the Aurora Borealis overhead—this truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that no traveler should pass up. So pack your bags and head north for much-needed relaxation amidst breathtaking views. You won’t regret it. 
This Travel Influencer Explains How To Explore Bali for Just $150
Bali is the perfect destination for travelers looking to experience the beauty and culture of Southeast Asia while keeping their budget low. Even on a small budget, you can have a fantastic time in Bali, experiencing all the best activities and attractions this beautiful island offers and taking incredible pictures along the way. Jaro, a travel influencer, explains how he was able to make the most of this country for only $150 per day.
@matadornetwork #Bali is the most popular island in Indonesia and $150 goes a long way here. Fun fact: Bali is also know as the "island of the gods" since Balinese Hinduism, which is the main religion on the island, has a higher than average number of gods
@JARO #vlog #travelvlog #balitravelguide #baliliving ♬ original sound – Matador Network
Accomodations
Hotel rooms in Bali are incredibly affordable. You can easily find a room for as little as $15 per night if you’re willing to stay away from the more popular tourist spots. Try staying in Kuta or Legian for a budget-friendly hotel – two more affordable areas. Alternatively, you can opt for a homestay or hostel, which will cost even less than a hotel room. But even Airbnb and hotels are relatively inexpensive in touristy spots than in other popular vacation destinations.
MealsEating out in Bali doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of street-side warungs (local eateries) where you can get delicious meals for under $3 each. If you want something fancier, dozens of restaurants offer reasonably priced international cuisine – think curries and stir-fries for less than $5 each!
ActivitiesBali has activities for every type of traveler. You can do plenty with just $150 in Bali. From wandering through ancient temples to taking surfing lessons on some of the best beaches in the world, there’s something here for everyone – regardless of your budget. Be sure to check out some free activities, like exploring local markets, visiting waterfalls, and watching traditional Balinese dance performances.
Bali is an incredibly affordable destination that offers something unique for every kind of traveler. Whether your budget is big or small, there is no shortage of things to do and see in this beautiful part of Southeast Asia! With just $150 dollars, you can enjoy some fantastic experiences without breaking your bank account.
This Hotel Room Offers Unparalleled Luxury Hotel Rooms on the Floor of the Indian Ocean
The Maldives is known for being one of the most luxurious destinations in the world, with several different islands that are worth hopping around to experience some incredible resorts. If you’re looking for an unforgettable and unique travel experience, look no further than the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. This luxurious resort has something exceptional—a hotel room 16 feet below the surface of the Indian Ocean. Let’s dive into what makes this location so spectacular.
@epic.stays This hotel room is 16 feet below the #IndianOcean
The Conrad #Maldives Rangali Island
The Ithaa Undersea Room is more than the typical “room with a view.” This room at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers guests the opportunity to stay 16 feet below sea level, surrounded by 360 glass-walled panoramic views. Guests can watch exotic undersea life swim by and marvel at a destination known for its water clarity and variety of fish. This room is ideal for couples seeking an intimate and romantic getaway. Guests of this unique suite will also have access to private dining and personal butler service services.
While you take in the Maldives, be sure to take advantage of such close proximity to wildlife. In addition to its eye-catching underwater accommodations, The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island also offers excellent aquatic activities. The resort’s Dive Centre is operated by world-renowned Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), who will guide guests through snorkeling and scuba diving adventures near vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, turtles, stingrays, and more. For those who would rather observe from above, The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island also offers sunset cruises with complimentary champagne and canapes aboard a traditional dhoni boat.
From its one-of-a-kind Ithaa Undersea Room to its diverse range of aquatic activities, there’s no shortage of things to do when visiting The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. Whether you’re looking for romance or adventure, this luxurious resort offers unparalleled luxury combined with boundless opportunities for exploration beneath the surface of the Indian Ocean.
Inside the San Francisco Cafe That Brought Irish Coffee To America
Hear the phrase Irish coffee and you probably think of Dublin, not San Francisco. But one of the world’s most famous Irish coffee houses is located a stone’s throw from the Golden Gate Bridge — The Buena Vista Cafe has been serving Irish coffee in San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood since 1952, solidifying its place as one of the most iconic restaurants in the city.
@foodwtf World-famous Irish coffee fromIt's made with Irish whisky, kalua, coffee and whipped cream
What’s Irish coffee, and where’s it from
Irish coffee is an alcoholic beverage made with coffee, whiskey, cream, and sugar. Most sources trace the origins of Irish coffee to a man named Joe Sheridan who worked as a chef at the Foynes airport near Limerick, Ireland. According to the Foynes Flying Boat Museum, Sheridan invented the drink one night in 1943 in an effort to comfort a group of American passengers whose flight to New York was canceled mid-flight due to bad weather. As the story goes, when one of the passengers asked if the coffee was Brazilian, Sheridan said no, it was Irish coffee.
The story behind Buena Vista Cafe’s legendary Irish coffeeOnetime Buena Vista Cafe owner Jack Koeppler is credited with bringing Irish coffee to America in 1952. Together with travel writer Stanton Delaplane, who tasted the drink at Ireland’s Shannon Airport, Koeppler experimented with the recipe until he was able to perfect the taste and get the cream to float on top of the coffee, a problem that was eventually solved by aging and frothing the cream. After countless attempts and even a trip to Ireland, Koeppler succeeded and began offering his concoction at the cafe 36 years after it was founded in 1916.
How to make Buena Vista Cafe’s Irish coffee at homeKoeppler’s Irish coffee recipe is precise. It starts with a warm glass and a generous pour of hot brewed coffee (The Buena Vista Cafe uses Peerless coffee from nearby Oakland). Next, dissolve two sugar cubes in the coffee and stir in a healthy jigger of Tullamore Dew Irish whiskey. Top with a dollop of heavy cream that’s been aged for 48 hours and whipped or frothed until it forms soft peaks. Et voilà — that’s the drink that’s served up to 2,000 times a day in San Francisco.
At Zauo Fishing Restaurant in Japan, Fish for Your Food Right From Your Table
Interactive dining experiences have been trending in the culinary world for some time. Zauo Fishing Restaurant in Osaka, Japan, takes the concept to the next level.
Zauo Fishing Restaurant serves traditional Japanese food alongside a one-of-a-kind fishing experience. Inside the restaurant there are pools filled with live fish, including salmon, sea bream, and flounder. Equipped with a fishing rod and bait, diners are given the opportunity to catch their own meal. If you’re lucky enough to snag a fish, an accomplishment that’s celebrated with the sounding of a gong, the restaurant chefs will prepare it for you however you prefer — grilled, steamed, fried, raw, you name it. Sushi preparations cost extra.
@foodwtf Catch you own fish for dinner at this restaurant in #Japan
Zauo Fishing Restaurant is committed to providing an enjoyable experience for everyone — not just experienced anglers. Guests can rent gear and bait, including kid-friendly nets instead of rods, for a little less than a dollar per person, as well as choose where to cast their lines: from a table positioned right by the pools, off the side of a boat-shaped seating arrangement that’s perfect for families and groups, or out of the window of a booth. Restaurant staff is always close by to provide tips on your fishing technique.
Of course, there’s more to the restaurant than what you can catch. In fact, the a la carte menu is almost 20 pages long. If you do manage to catch your own fish, however, you’ll get a discount for your effort. For example, salmon that would normally cost around $40 would only run you about $30. Prices vary depending on your catch.
Despite what your parents might have told you when you were a kid, Zauo Fishing Restaurant is one place where it’s totally okay to play with your food. Best of all, Zauo has locations all over Japan, so keep an eye out for the unforgettable experience during your next visit.
Cambodia’s Coolest Hostel Is Also an Epic Waterpark
If you’re looking for the coolest hostel in Southeast Asia, look no further than Arcadia Backpackers in Kampot, Cambodia, located roughly 100 miles southwest of Phnom Penh. The hostel’s main attraction is a Swiss Family Robinson-style outdoor waterpark with exhilarating features that will launch you high into the air and plunge you deep into the Preaek Tuek Chhu River.
Arcadia’s waterpark comes with slides, swings, hot tubs, and two large swimming pools, one of which is connected by a lazy river. The pool area also has plenty of loungers where you can kick back and relax after a long day of touring Kampot’s pepper plantations and salt fields. Scooters are available for rent at the hostel to facilitate your adventures.
The hostel itself also offers a variety of activities and amenities, such as wilderness hikes, riverboat pub crawls, ping pong and pool tables, a slackline, and a gym. Guests tend to congregate at the on-site bar to enjoy events including pub quizzes, beer pong tournaments, and live music, but there’s also a cafe on the premises that serves a mix of local and international cuisine from 7 AM to 8:30 PM.
Accommodations at Arcadia Backpackers hostel range from single and double rooms to 12-person eco dorms and a floating house boat. Prices vary from as little as $7 per night up to $34 per night, and all guests must be 18 or older. If you’re just passing through town, day passes to the waterpark cost $7. Note that Arcadia Backpackers is cash-only and there are no ATMs nearby, so be sure to bring as much cash as you’ll need for the entirety of your stay.
This Café in Milan Serves the Biggest Croissants You’ve Ever Seen
France may be home to the world’s most delicious and decadent pastries, but Italy is quickly catching up. Aroma Napoletano, a Napolitan café and pastry shop located in Milan, has made its mark in the city by giving the much-loved, old-fashioned croissant a brand new image. Aroma Napoletano bakes the biggest, most colorful, and most loaded croissants you’ve ever seen.
@foodwtf
Not exactly suitable for one person, the Cornetto XXL (Croissant XXL), is a lot sturdier than a regular croissant and can be topped with all sorts of good things like sliced or whole fruit, shredded almonds, ground pistachios, pastry cream, whipped cream, meringue, etc. Aroma Napoletano’s Cornetto XXL is often dyed a bright color, such as green, red, pink, brown, or black to make it stand out even more.
Aroma Napoletano’s Cornetto XXL must be ordered at least one day in advance so don’t just show up and expect to get a giant pastry. If you’re feeling extravagant, order the Cornetto XXL alongside a Cappuccino XXL so you have an appropriately sized beverage to dunk your unbelievably large baked good.
Depite the Cornetto XXL being the big attraction at Aroma Napoletano, the café and pastry shop also serves regular-size croissants. However, many of them are also dyed, have a variety of toppings, and are stuffed with fruit compote, cream, chocolate, and more. After all, their twist on the traditional croissant is what put Aroma Napoletano on the map.
And if you’re not into fancy-looking croissants, fret not, Aroma Napoletano also serves lovely and scrumptious Italian pastries to fit your taste and appetite, like chocolate brioches, rum-soaked cakes, panettones, and Napolitan donuts, among many others.
Address of Aroma Napoletano: Via Traù, 2, 20159 Milano MI, Italy
January 8, 2023
This Is the First Underwater Hotel in the US and You Need To Dive To Check In
Jules’ Undersea Lodge, located off the coast of Key Largo in Florida, is the first underwater hotel in the US. It was originally built as an underwater research laboratory by scientist Graham Hawkes in 1986 but has since been transformed into a one-of-a-kind accommodation for adventurous travelers. Named after Jules Verne, the author of Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, Jules’ Undersea Lodge is a tribute to the human quest for exploration and adventure.
@epic.stays
How to get to Jules’ Undersea Lodge
The lodge is situated 30 feet below the surface of the lagoon, giving guests an unparalleled opportunity to sleep with the fishes. The only way to access Jules’ Undersea Lodge is by diving. But don’t worry if you are not a seasoned diver. You will be met by trained instructors who will show you the ropes and lead you under the water past colorful coral formations and diverse local marine life.
The suite at Jules’ Undersea LodgeThe suite is accessed via an airlock chamber. On arrival, guests are welcomed to the suite with a hot shower before entering the lodge which is filled with compressed air, which prevents the water from rising and flooding the accommodation. Each suite is fully equipped with amenities such as beds and furnishings, a private bathroom, and internet connectivity.
What to do at Jules’ Undersea LodgeThe mangrove lagoon is home to a plethora of reef fish. Tropical angelfish and parrotfish to barracuda and snappers can be spotted peering through its windows into the vibrant underwater habitat. Jules’ Undersea Lodge provides guests with a unique opportunity to explore the underwater world with unlimited diving tanks. But if you’d rather stay dry, you can relax on your bed and enjoy the view from the huge 42-inch round window.
If you are concerned at all about safety, don’t be. The accommodation is monitored 24-7 and guests have communication with the central desk via an intercom. All you have to consider is what you want to have for dinner. A private chef is on stand-by on the dry land to whip up delights from pizza to delicious curry. And you don’t need to get wet in order to eat. Food will be delivered to you through the airlock chamber to your suite door.
Guests of the Lodge have included many celebrities, such as former Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau and Steve Tyler of Aerosmith.
This Luxury All-Inclusive Is the Best Adults-Only Resort in Greece
We’ve had a look at the best adults-only resorts in the US and all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean, now it’s to Europe — specifically one of the premier summer vacation destinations, Greece.
Greece’s warm sunny days make it an ideal spot for a summer getaway and one of the most popular holiday spots in the country is the island of Crete.
Located in the Mediterranean Sea and part of the southernmost region of Greece, Crete is home to stunning beaches, picturesque villages, and diverse cultural attractions. Its year-round mild climate also makes traveling here in shoulder seasons pleasant and although there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from, Stella Island Resort and Spa stands out as the best adults-only all-inclusive on the island.
We hope you love Stella Island Resort and Spa. 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 #stitch with @courtney.davisx
Stella Island Resort and Spa is the perfect destination for those seeking a luxurious, relaxing break without a swimming pool of screaming kids. With its striking beachfront views, comfortable suites, world-class spa facilities and luxurious amenities such as private beach access, this all-inclusive resort offers everything needed for an unforgettable vacation.
How to get to Stella Island Resort and Spa
Photo: Booking.com
Stella Island Resort and Spa is easily accessible by air and sea. The closest airport is Chania International Airport, located about 30 miles from the resort. From Chania, you can take a shuttle service or taxi. If arriving by ferry, get off at the port of Souda in Chania and then take a private car or resort transfer.
For those who prefer to drive from other parts of Crete, the resort is accessible via Highway E75. With easy access from major points of interest on the island, such as Heraklion and Rethymno, you can enjoy hassle-free access to the resort.
Rooms at Stella Island Resort and Spa
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
The resort has a variety of rooms and suites. Each room is equipped with modern amenities including air conditioning, WiFi, satellite TV, and a minibar. Deluxe suites offer guests premium accommodations with spacious living areas, private balconies or terraces, marble-clad bathrooms, and spa-like comforts.
There’s also a selection of villas and overwater bungalows for those seeking luxury and privacy during their stay. Ranging from two to four bedrooms, these villas feature lush gardens, fully equipped kitchens, chic decor, and the latest technology.
Amenities at Stella Island Resort and Spa
Photo: Booking.com
You can indulge in a wide range of amenities at this luxury resort, including world-class dining experiences, top-notch entertainment, and spa services.
One of the main reasons this all-inclusive is so popular is due to its restaurants. From delicious local Greek cuisine to international specialties, guests have the option to enjoy their meals at one of the resort’s many eateries or via room service. The resort also has five bars where you can sip on signature cocktails or sample some famous Greek wines while admiring spectacular views from beachfront terraces.
There’s a huge array of entertainment options too, from live music to game nights, pool parties to stargazing on the beach, there’s something on every day of the week.
The spa is located in an area surrounded by spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. With its luxurious treatment rooms, private hammam, sauna, and steam room, visitors are able to enjoy calming therapies such as aromatherapy massages and facial treatments that incorporate natural ingredients from the region. Guests can also take part in yoga classes or work up a sweat in the fitness center.
January 6, 2023
Where To Find the Clearest Waters in Brazil’s Chapada Dos Veadeiros National Park
Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park is one of Brazil’s most beautiful natural wonders. From its abundance of wildlife to its stunning landscapes and plethora of adventure activities on offer—it’s easy to see why so many people flock here every year. Located in the heart of Brazil, Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park features a stunning landscape that includes rolling hills, canyons, and crystal clear rivers—all surrounded by lush vegetation. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or simply want to relax in nature, Chapada dos Veadeiros has something to offer everyone.
@visit Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park in Brazil is the place to go to be surrounded by nature, crystal clear water, and amazing sceneryIG: @trilheirasnaestrada #brazil #ChapadadosVeadeiros #travelinspo #travelingbrazil ♬ original sound – Visit
Chapada dos Veadeiros is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in Brazil. From sweeping views of rolling hills to towering canyon walls, the park’s diverse landscape has something to delight every traveler. Perhaps its most unique and attractive feature is the park’s water. The water that flows through Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park is some of the purest in all of Brazil. Much of the region was declared a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2001 due to its natural beauty and biodiversity, and as a result, significant effort has gone into preserving this area and keeping it free from pollution and other contamination sources. This means that visitors can enjoy swimming or boating in some of the clearest waters they have ever seen.
In addition to its stunning landscape, Chapada dos Veadeiros also offers visitors plenty of opportunities for aquatic adventures. There are several crystal clear rivers running through the park that offer ideal conditions for swimming, kayaking, canoeing and more. Visitors will be able to enjoy some spectacular views from atop the riverbanks as they make their way downriver in search of adventure. There are also several challenging hikes and climbs within the park, while those looking for a more relaxed experience will find plenty of opportunities for leisurely walks through the park’s many trails.
Chapada dos Veadeiros is also home to a variety of animals including tapirs, armadillos, anteaters and howler monkeys. While wildlife sightings can be unpredictable at times, there are plenty of opportunities to spot these creatures if you know where to look. The best time to spot wildlife is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when they are most active.
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