Matador Network's Blog, page 367
December 16, 2022
Visit Cleopatra's Pool at Pamukkale
Located inside the Pamukkale hot springs (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) in Pamukkale, Türkiye, Cleopatra’s Pool a geothermal hot spring with one feature that makes it standout from every other hot spring on earth: It’s located within the ruins of an ancient temple that once might have belonged to Cleopatra.
Turkey’s travertine terraces located near Cleopatra’s Pool are already famous – the white limestone rock formations form multiple small pools where throngs of tourists like to gather. The Cleopatra Pool (officially referred to as the Antique Pool) isn’t located among these terraces. Instead, if you want to visit, head to the nearby town of Denizli or Pamukkale – buses run directly to the Antique Pool complex.
Photo: John Wreford/Shutterstock
According to legend, the man made pool was a gift from Marc Anthony to Cleopatra. There’s no direct evidence she actually ever visited the pools. A temple to Apollo once housed the pool, but an earthquake toppled the Doric columns, which now decorate the bottom of the pool. History buffs can bring snorkel gear if they want to get a better look at the underwater ruins.
The geothermal pools are sometimes nicknamed “champagne waters,” thanks to the effervescent bubbles released from the ground. The water hovers around 95 degrees fahrenheit – comfortably warm without being too hot to swim in the summer.
Far from an isolated hot spring situated in the middle of a natural landscape, the Antique Pool is outfitted with modern facilities, including changing rooms, lockers, and showers. There’s even a restaurant within the pool complex. However, you will need to bring your own towel as there are none available at the pool.
If you want to sit and lounge in the outdoor seating area near the pool, there’s no fee to enter. However if you plan to swim, be prepared to be charged around 10 US dollars.
The best time to visit the pool is probably in the early morning (the complex opens at 9 am and stays open until 7 pm) before groups and big families start to arrive from nearby towns, if you want to enjoy the ruins in peace. The pool quickly becomes crowded with tourists. 
Taking A 1,500-Mile, 31-Day Road Trip Through Northern Greece
Waiting at a border crossing in 95°F temperatures is excruciating, especially on a motorcycle. The Turkish-Greek border was not the easiest crossing I’ve ever passed, and it’s especially challenging since it’s also the border into and out of the European Union. But it’s all part of the journey. This was day one of a 31-day trip through northern Greece my wife, Kathleen, and I took after completing 47 days on two wheels on our BMW 310GS from Antalya, Türkiye, to get to here. We left unbearable temperatures on July 4 and were hoping for cooler temps as we went further north.
We arrived at the Kipoi border station to find a line of cars that looked manageable, but it seemed like the immigration officers were checking everything they could. Even after passing our first of three checkpoints at the end of almost two hours, we still had to go back and supply more information. But it was nice being back in Greece and being back in Europe.
It took just a few minutes for Kathleen and I to notice, but we both commented that there was a difference in the quality of the roads between the two countries, and a palatable change of energy that could not be explained.
My wife and I have been homeless, both by definition and by intent, since leaving the United States in February 2019. We’ve been permanent nomads ever since, traveling to 26 countries during that almost four year period, and both of us have a preference for Europe proper, as well as the Balkans. My ancestry is Hungarian and Romanian, so I guess those roots run deep, and being a travel writer since we left has allowed us to share our stories and inspire others, especially the older generation, since we are ages 68 and 69.
Photo: Kathleen Plumley
This was our second time in Greece. Our previous visit took us to Athens and the islands of Santorini and Naxos. Northern Greece, which is rich in history, often doesn’t get the love it deserves from travelers, and we were out to fix that. The itinerary was set up with Sofia Bournatzi, who has been in the travel industry for decades, and she arranged 15 hotel rooms in 15 regions over 31 days. During that time, we would drive over 1,500 miles and visit 17 different ruins and museums.
We would also be changed forever, as we were able to experience the history of not just Greece, but of the world of civilizations, since so much of it started where we would be traveling. Much of our journey was on highway A1, also known as the Via Egnatia. It was the first interstate and international highway, built by the Romans 2000 years ago. It originally started in what is now Albania and terminated in Istanbul (then Byzantium, later Constantinople), but now stays within the Greek border for 420 miles, and covers 1,650 bridges, and 76 tunnels — many of which we rode through.
Photo: Kathleen Plumley
After crossing the border it was time for a meal break, and the first stop was a city not on the itinerary, but one with a historical footnote. Alexandroupoli is a beautiful coastal town on the Thracian Sea, which was a term I had never heard before. I considered the Mediterranean and the Aegean as large bodies of water that included every piece of land it touched, but there are many isolated sections, like the Thracian Sea, that are specific to different parts of the coast. Alexandroupoli is the largest city in the region and a major shipping and commercial port, along with being the very first city where Alexander III, ie, Alexander the Great, won his first battle at age 16. This was the first of dozens of cities he founded and named after himself.
Photo: Nicolas Economou/Shutterstock
One of the fascinating aspects of northern Greece is the overwhelming presence of specific historical characters with impact in that area, including Alexander, his father, King Phillip II, the great philosopher Aristotle, and the Apostles Paul and John.
After having our first of many Greek salads in Alexandroupoli, we headed onward to the city of Kavala to the west. Even though our tour did not officially “begin” for two more days, we were threatened by something no motorcycle riders like: rain. The forecast showed that the next eight days predicted rain, but, to cut to the chase and give away the ending, we encountered 20 minutes of it while riding over the next 30 plus days.
Photo: Kathleen Plumley
The city of Kavala wowed us as we rode into town and under the most well preserved aqueduct I have ever seen. The Kamares is a well-known landmark, and along with the Fortress of Kavala overlooking the harbor, is a great incentive to visit. We stayed for just two days at the beautiful Lucy Hotel, and had a full view of the coastline and the water. This was the first Greek town we noted as a place to return to for much longer, but it was not the last. As nomads, we ideally seek out cities to live in for six weeks at a time, and by the end of our month in northern Greece, we had a decent list to choose from.
From the oceans to the mountains we rode, to the ski resort city of Volakas that’s quiet in the summer season. Along the way, we visited Aggitis, the first cave I had ever been in. It’s a river cave with a waterway running throughout the several-hundred-meters depth we toured. Two days later we stopped into a second cave, Alistrati, and though it was a more typical dry cave, it was even more impressive with the many hundreds of stalactites and stalagmites within.
Photo: Kathleen Plumley
Water was a big part of our trip to the north country, and the (next) city of Drama exemplified that since it was founded atop what is called the Agia Varvara — a riparian stream bed that’s always in motion, which created a series of lakes within the city. Our stay at the Hydrama Hotel was immediately across the street from it and was totally renovated a decade ago from a tobacco processing plant. Over the next week we visited the cities of Serres, one of the oldest and most historic cities in Greece, followed by Lake Kerkini, a protected reservoir that holds the largest and most diverse population of birds in Greece.
The city of Edessa is called the City of Waterfalls, and is home to a huge one called Karanos. The travertine in the water makes the ground grow rather than the pounding waterfall eroding the land it hits. The 20 minutes of rain caught us as we entered the city, but we voluntarily got soaked by exploring the underside of Karanos regardless.
Photo: Adriana Iacob/Shutterstock
Aside from water, the two aspects of northern Greece that really hit home were based in history. Not just ancient history, but also from a century ago: World War I. I had little knowledge of the “War to End all Wars,” but Greece had a huge impact on the war. The cities of Goumenissa, Veria, and Skra were all significant battle sites. As was the “Cultural Capital” city of Thessaloniki, and Ioannina, the silver hub of Greece for centuries, and the farthest west we went towards the Aegean Sea.
But it was the ancient history that captivated me as we visited the town of Pella, where Alexander the Great was born, as well as Stagira, birthplace of Aristotle. To actually ride into Mount Olympus was almost surreal, and I imagined the mythology that sprung from that mountain. A series of six monasteries built on top of quarter-mile-high spire in the Meteora area, in the city of Kalabaka, went to the very top of both mine and Kathleen’s list of most impressive places we’ve seen. Our lodge, the Katraki Hotel, was one of the most charming during our journey.
Photo: Kathleen Plumley
The trip into northern Greece was officially called the “Urban Centers of Northern Greece Campaign,” and the intent was to highlight the part of the country that is not based on tourism, but deserves to be visited. This is the real Greece, where people in cars stop in the street to talk with their friends walking along the side and no one gets upset.
This is where everyone eats “Greek Family Style,” which means lots of food dishes shared by all. This is where wine is grown, and where buffalo roam — both available for our enjoyment. This is a place to go, to see the real Greece.
Vacation Like Royalty at These Converted Castles in the UK
The secret weapon of the United Kingdom lies in the abundance of country manors and castles which have been given a new life under the creative minds of some of the commonwealth’s top hoteliers. As maintenance costs increased for the aristocracy, many wealthy families were begrudgingly keeping their ancestors’ houses in a state of disrepair, waiting for a way to utilize the estate in a new way. With lavish grounds and roomy interiors, these houses were ready-made to be turned into castle hotels at the hands of an entrepreneur.
The hospitality industry throughout the UK has blossomed lately and what’s en vogue in other markets are built into the DNA of Britain. From dedication to farm-to-table dining to eschewing commercialization, boutique hotels have been paving the way for British tourism and now it’s their time to shine.
In speaking with Gavin Landry, executive vice president for the Americas and Australia, of VisitBritain, he summarized it best.
“Britain is blessed with many castles and estate homes, often in beautiful locations across England, Scotland and Wales. Many of these national treasures have been reimagined as stunning hotels and bed and breakfasts that combine elements of Britain’s iconic history with modern amenities including fine dining, cooking schools, country clubs, spas, gardens, and natural estates to be enjoyed for generations to come.”
So now is your chance to see — and stay — up close and personal with some of the most beautiful houses built across the UK which have been given a second life to make a vacation fit for royalty. Here are seven castle hotels we recommend to make the most of your time on the British Isles and live out your ultimate Downton Abbey fantasy.
Cliveden House
Photo: Cliveden House
Cliveden House is a luxurious five-star hotel located in the rolling hills of Berkshire, England. The property dates back to the 1700s and was a gift from the Duke of Buckingham for his mistress. National Trust grounds stretch over 376 acres, which guests are free to roam, or you can enjoy a bit of relaxation in the world-class spa. The five-star hotel has a verity of world-class dining options, including an afternoon tea fit for a queen.
Where: Cliveden Rd, Taplow, Maidenhead SL6 0JF, United Kingdom
Heckfield Place
Photo: David-S/Shutterstock
Looking at this Georgian manor house, one could easily see it being the background setting for a Nancy Mitford novel. With its grand facade and homey feel, it’s the perfect balance between luxury and comfort. Heckfield sits on 400 acres and part of the surrounding estate includes a farm, which supports the overall approach to environmental consciousness and sustainability, which goes into many facets of the operating practices of this estate.
Where: Heckfield Pl, Heckfield, Hook RG27 0LD, United Kingdom
Fonab Castle
Photo: martinthomson/Shutterstock
Castles come in all shapes and sizes, and Fonab Castle is little but full of charm. With its dusky pink exterior and boutique-style 18 room interior, it balances luxury and British hospitality perfectly. While the castle itself has been consciously restored to keep its traditional appeal alive for guests, the amenities are very modern. There are self-contained pods to keep warm while sipping a cocktail and overlooking the nearby loch or a 15-meter swimming pool to burn off calories from the brasserie.
Where: Foss Rd, Pitlochry PH16 5ND, United Kingdom
Grantley Hall
Photo: Grantly Hall
Originally built as a large house for Grantley family members in 1804, Grantley Hall was transformed into one of Britain’s greatest hotels when the family decided to open their doors to visitors in 2016. With 47 rooms, a Michelin-starred chef on property, a spa, and five restaurants to choose from, Grantley Hall ticks the boxes for anyone looking to really indulge while on holiday. Guests can enjoy a range of activities such as horse riding, shooting and falconry while relaxing in one of England’s most comfortable retreats.
Where: Grantley Hall, Ripon HG4 3ET, United Kingdom
Roch Castle
Photo: Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock
Roch Castle, located in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire in South Wales, is a historical landmark steeped in centuries of history. The castle was built by Walter de Roch during the Norman conquest more than 900 years ago and has been occupied ever since. It is one of the few truly intact medieval castles that remain in Britain today. The hotel sits on a volcanic, rocky outcrop and offers a 360-degree view of Pembrokeshire, making it a great option for those looking to marvel at the natural beauty of Wales.
Where: Church Rd, Roch, Haverfordwest SA62 6AQ, United Kingdom
Palé HallPhoto: Palé Hall
When you arrive at Palé Estate, you’ll be welcomed by the beautiful country house hotel that homes luxurious suites, restaurants serving delicious local produce, and plenty of activities to enjoy.
Palé Estate in Llandderfel was built in the 17th century. It was originally owned by William Glynne and then passed down to his son, Sir Stephen Glynne. The estate remained with the family for over 200 years, until it was bought by William Parry-Powell in 1914. He improved and expanded Palé’s grounds, transforming them into a beautiful country park.
Where: Palé Estate, Llandderfel, Bala LL23 7PS, United Kingdom
Dalhousie Castle
Photo: Jamie___T/Shutterstock
With over 800 years of history, quite a few notable figures have stayed at Dalhousie: Oliver Cromwell, King Edward I, and Mary Queen of Scots, to name a few. And now you can, too. Dalhousie is as classic as it comes in terms of architecture and the interior has been meticulously designed to keep all the charm of the castle while still making it feel like a luxury hotel. Most surprising, perhaps, is the proximity to a large city. Dalhousie is only eight miles from Edinburgh, making it the perfect getaway while still having access to some urban adventures during your stay.
Where: Bonnyrigg EH19 3JB, United Kingdom
December 15, 2022
How to visit Les Gorges du Verdon
The Gorges du Verdon is a 2,300-foot-deep river canyon in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department in southeastern France. It stretches for over 30 miles between two points: le Point sublime et le pont de Galetas. It is the biggest canyon in Europe.
Formed thousands of years ago by the Verdon River which slowly but surely cut through the limestone terrain, the Gorges du Verdon has been a huge tourist draw since the 1930s. These days, more than one million visitors come every year.
While the Gorges du Verdon is busy with tourists, especially in the summer months, the site is protected from development by French and European laws. It is located within the Verdon Natural Regional Park, home to rare and threatened species of birds, bats, and lizards (including the biggest lizard in Europe, the ocellated lizard), among many others.
No matter what activity you chose to partake in while visiting the canyon, remember that the summer months are very hot in this corner of France, so get up early when the temperatures are cooler and protect yourself from the beating sun. To keep cool in the hot weather, swim in the Verdon, rent a paddleboat or a kayak, or go canyoneering. Of course, you can also hike the famous hiking trails in the surrounding mountains, climb the canyon’s cliffs, and watch for wildlife, but bring plenty of water and sunblock.
The Gorges du Verdon are home to many picturesque villages worth visiting or staying at, including:
AnnotCastellaneColmars-les-AlpesEntrevauxLa Palud-sur-VerdonSaint-André-les-AlpesLes Gorges du Verdon is within a three-hour drive from Marseille, Nice, Aix-en-Provence, Toulon, and Gap. That said, it’s not an ideal destination for a day trip — plan to stay a few days to enjoy the area properly.
The Best Coffee Cities in the World, According To a World Barista Championship Winner
Elika Liftee knows coffee. As the reigning U.S. Brewers Cup Champion for the last two years and the Director of Education for Onyx Coffee Lab, his experience in coffee spans years of training and research, not to mention his own career as a barista. Lifter’s schedule as Director of Education has him racking up frequent flier miles, traveling all over the world training the world’s next best baristas, and allowing him to explore the ever-evolving coffee culture not just in the United States but around the world. And while it’s possible to find a good cup of coffee pretty much everyone on Earth, Liftee has thoughts on the best coffee cities — the places with creative, stylish, thoughtful takes on coffee. And they probably aren’t what you’re expecting, either (hint: he doesn’t pick Seattle).
Amid all of his travels, Liftee has uncovered some of the country’s best coffee cities for enthusiasts, and the places that make them stand out. Here are a few of his picks for the best coffee cities, and the coffee shops to visit in each one.
The best coffee cities in the worldNorthwest ArkansasPhoto: Onyx Coffee Lab
Liftee’s home state of Arkansas has a bustling coffee culture that sources and roasts some excellent brews. “We’re spread out here in Arkansas”, says Liftee. “We’re small and somewhat rural, but the level of coffee here, I think, exceeds that of any other city.”
Where to Go:
Onyx Coffee Lab: Find Liftee training baristas at any of the four Onyx locations across Northwest Arkansas.
Arsaga’s: Onyx owners got their start at this established specialty roaster, which offers six locations, including a cute drive-through for a quick coffee fix.
Airship Coffee: “Natural trails are really big here in Northwest Arkansas”, says Liftee. “Airship happens to have an open air cafe right on a biking trail that is really cool.”
Confident Coffee Roasters: Woman-owned Confident Coffee Roasters in Fayetteville is one of Liftee’s favorite spots. “I love their ambiance.” says Liftee. “It’s a really small and neat roasting program that’s a part of the local community.”
Denver, ColoradoView this post on InstagramA post shared by Copper Door Coffee Roasters (@copperdoorcoffee)
Denver is known for much more than rock climbing and hiking. The coffee culture has ballooned in recent years, with new indie coffee shops and roasters opening up in every neighborhood.
Where to Go:
Copper Door Coffee: Denver’s only 100% female-owned coffee roaster, Copper Door boasts an excellent array of coffee classes for those looking to sharpen their skills. From latte art to cupping and espresso basics, a class is a must for those traveling to the Mile High City.
Corvus Coffee: If exotic or rare coffees are your thing, Corvus should be your first stop in Denver. Specializing in avant-garde and hard to find artisan coffees, this roastery has it all.
Huckleberry Roasters: Winners of Roast Magazine’s 2022 Macro Roaster of The Year, Huckleberry Roasters offers myriad coffees for the specialty coffee lover, including a selection of instant coffees sure to please those with the most sensitive palates and busy schedules.
Nashville, TennesseeView this post on InstagramA post shared by Stay Golden (@stay.golden.co)
Among the legendary country music culture of Nashville lives a community of dedicated coffee professionals and enthusiasts.
Where to Go:
Barista Parlor: With a focus on environmentally responsible coffee sourcing, Barista Parlor makes a great local hangout for the coffee lover. Look out for their excellent sandwiches and beautiful latte art.
Stay Golden: More than a roastery, Stay Golden has all of your breakfast and lunch needs handled. From breakfast tacos to grain bowls, the food here does not play second fiddle to the coffee. Coffee cocktails and specialty drinks pair perfectly with the food menu.
Honest Coffee Roasters: True to their name, Honest Coffee Roasters specialize in working directly with coffee farmers and making sure they get a fair price for their products. They can tell you clearly and transparently how every coffee was fermented, roasted, and sourced, and which type of coffee is best suited to specific beverages.
Melbourne, AustraliaView this post on InstagramA post shared by Seven Seeds (@7seedscoffee)
Liftee’s travels to Melbourne revolve around international competitions, like the World Brewers Cup, which have allowed him to explore the deeply rooted coffee culture of Australia’s third-largest city.
“The cafe culture is very different in Melbourne—it’s more sit-down style,” says Liftee. “It’s slower service, not grab your cup and go. Even my Uber drivers have excellent specialty coffee recommendations in Melbourne. It’s really ingrained into the overall culture of the city.”
Where to Go:
Seven Seeds: “They have an amazing food program, as well as probably the best Kenya coffee I’ve ever had”, says Liftee. Established in 2007, Seven Seeds is at the forefront of the growing coffee scene in Melbourne.
Code Black: With six locations in Melbourne, you’re likely to stumble upon this shop throughout your travels. They offer barista training and resources for those looking to brew a better cup, along with coffee subscriptions and quality brewing equipment.
Proud Mary Coffee: You’ll love the eclectic and multicolored design of Proud Mary’s brand, and the enormous variety of their coffee offerings. Don’t shy away from their well-sourced tea selection, from raw Puer to Thai silver tip.
4 Michelin-Starred Seoul Hotel Restaurants That Offer a Taste of Luxury
South Korea is known for top-tier entertainment thanks to K-Pop bands like global sensations BTS, internationally acclaimed hit Netflix shows like Squid Game, and the first foreign-language film Best Picture Oscar-winning movie Parasite. But for travelers, Seoul is also well regarded as one of the leading culinary destinations in the world.
Korean cuisine is characterized largely by nourishing and healthy vegetables, fresh seafood, and savory meat dishes. The list of signature dishes you can find is long: mouth-watering Korean barbecue like marbled hanwoo galbi (beef short-ribs using meat similar to Kobe beef) grilled over a wood fire, spicy maeutang (a hearty Korean fish stew simmered in anchovy flavored broth), and traditional Kimchi made with fermented and salted Napa cabbage and radish, to name a few.
Seoul has become one of the hotspots for fine dining that highlights both traditional cooking methods and innovative techniques. There are more than 30 Michelin-starred restaurants in Seoul — that’s more than Madrid, Chicago, Bangkok, and San Francisco.
In the last decade, some of Seoul’s most celebrated fine-dining restaurants are also distinguishing themselves with unique modern twists to traditional Korean (Han-sik) cuisine. Take, for example, French-Korean dishes such as large morel stuffed with an ogol chicken mousseline, shredded cabbage made with Goseong scallops, and lotus root topped with fragrant citron foam.
These four world-class Michelin star restaurants are worth keeping on your radar for when you want to eat your way through the city in style.
La Yeon at The Shilla Seoul
Photo: Lotte Hotel Seoul
Offering stunning views over Namsan Park and the Seoul skyline, La Yeon is an elegant Korean restaurant located on the 23rd floor of the iconic The Shilla Seoul. The spacious dining area, which seats up to 40 people including one private room, is embellished with traditional Korean patterns and wood furniture, making for the perfect ambience for a fine meal.
Celebrated executive chef Kim Sung Il’s contemporary interpretations of classic Korean cuisine earned La Yeon two Michelin stars this year, and it was the first hotel restaurant in Korea to be awarded three stars in previous years.
Using only top-notch seasonal local ingredients exclusive to only a few in the market and directly sourced from The Shilla’s own exclusive food network, La Yeon uses the fundamentals of traditional Korean cooking and brings it into the modern age using flavorful ingredients.
Must-try seasonal dishes on their latest November and December menu include a comforting sweet pumpkin porridge made with milk and glutinous rice flour, Goseong scallops tossed in a nut sauce and lotus root, pan-fried red mullet cooked in gochujang, and yul-lan (chestnut cookies) made from the traditional Korean refreshment Yanggaeng (sweet red bean jelly).
The nine-course, prix-fixe dinner runs 270,000 Won, or roughly $250.00, and the seven-course lunch menu begins at 175,000 Won (about $130.00). Vegetarian menus are available for both lunch and dinner.
La Yeon: 249 Dongho-ro, Jangchung-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Bicena at Signiel Seoul
Photo: Signiel Seoul
Signiel Seoul hotel is located on the 76th through 101st floors of Lotte World Tower in the greater Gangnam area in the quiet residential Songpa-Gu district along the Han River. One-Michelin-star restaurant Bicena is located on the hotel’s 81st floor. Signiel Seoul is the country’s tallest tower (and sixth tallest in the world) at an impressive height of 1,823 feet. That makes Bicena the highest restaurant in the world.
At Bicena, Korean executive chef Kwangsik Jun serves up contemporary Korean cuisine in a lavishly appointed dining room. Its design was inspired by three Korean verbs that translates to “emptying, filling, and then sharing.” The warm wooden interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows allow for abundant natural light to fill the space, creating a welcoming ambience for fine dining.
Jun previously worked as the sous chef at GAON, the first three-Michelin-star Korean restaurant. His expertise lies in creating modern Korean dishes from the fundamentals of traditional Korean foods while using fresh seasonal ingredients and fermented sauces. The names of the dishes at Bicena are inspired by the 10 traditional symbols of longevity, including for the sun, clouds, mountains, and water.
Dinner is five-courses, with an elaborate menu featuring options like fig sikhye (rice punch) and fermented prawn followed by stuffed abalone (caviar optional) and dried persimmon sujeonggwa (sweet punch) for dessert. A typical full-course dinner at Bicena runs from 185,000 Won ($140.00) to 220,000 Won ($170.00).
Bicena: South Korea, Seoul, Songpa-gu, Sincheon-dong, Olympic-ro, 300
Pierre Gagnaire à Séoul at Lotte Hotel Seoul
Photo: Lotte Hotel Seoul
The picturesque views of Bukhan Mountain and downtown Seoul from the Executive Tower of the Lotte Hotel Seoul in fashionable Myeongdong are reason enough to visit. But anyone who loves fine food will appreciate that Pierre Gagnaire à Séoul, on the hotel’s 35th floor, is also regarded as the city’s finest French restaurant, earning one Michelin star since 2019. The black and gold Parisian interior is designed to replicate the Palace of Versailles’ secret garden.
French chef Pierre Gagnaire is known for his artistic take on French cuisine, especially southern French dishes, which have earned him the nickname “Picasso of Gastronomy.” He is also the head chef and owner of twelve Michelin-star restaurants worldwide, including the iconic three-Michelin-starred Pierre Gagnaire restaurant in Paris.
There are five set menus available. On the seasonal dinner menu are elaborate French-Korean creations such as sole stuffed with snails, spinach fondue, and Korean beef flank steak — all plated so beautifully you aren’t sure whether they’re food or art.
The Déjeuner Pierre Gagnaire seasonal menu is divided into plates that are from the sea (such as filet of John Dory cooked à la plaque spiced with tandoori), and earth (such as Korean beef filet or prime rib), and all menus offer coffee and a selection of dessert.
Dinners run from 200,000 to 340,000 Won ($150.00 to $250.00), not counting a pairing from Pierre Gagnaire à Séoul’s selection of more than 250 fine wines.
Pierre Gagnaire à Séoul: South Korea, Seoul, Jung-gu, Eulji-ro, 30
Eatanic Garden at the Josun Palace Hotel
Photo: Josun Palace Hotel
Eatanic Garden is in an airy garden space that opens up onto a spectacular city view in the heart of Gangnam, one of Seoul’s most vibrant and upscale neighborhoods. This one-Michelin-star restaurant focused on contemporary Korean cuisine is one of the most sought after places to dine in Seoul.
Located at the newly opened ultra-lux Josun Palace hotel on the 36th floor, it can seat up to 48 people. The glamorous gold and white stylish designs make you feel like you’re stepping onto a Great Gatsby movie set.
Chef Son Jong-won’s combination of culinary artistry and wit has made him one of Korea’s most celebrated restaurateurs. When Eatanic won its first star in 2022, Son became the first Korean chef to run two Michelin-starred restaurants.
Nine-course meals are available in Eatanic Garden for both lunch and dinner. Instead of a traditional menu, diners are offered an illustrated guide to the ingredients in each dish.
The dinner menu, for example, begins with blossom jujeonburi (traditional Korean snacks such as dried jujube dates and pine nuts), hydroponic herb beans, burdock, and autumn mushrooms and ends with sweet pumpkin and mother of pearl box.
Meals cost anywhere between 160,000 and 300,000 Won ($145.00 to $270.00).
Eatanic Garden: 231, Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Spotted Lake BC, Canada
For years, I’d passed by Spotted Lake along British Columbia’s Highway 3 (aka the Crowsnest Highway), driving between Vancouver and the interior. I always glimpsed it out the window, but it wasn’t until after many trips that I finally pulled over to have a better look. The small lake is rich with minerals and when the weather is hot and much of the water has evaporated, these minerals are concentrated into small pools which give the lake its spotted and colorful appearance.
Summer is the best time to check out the lake. The small pools change color and size throughout the hot season, ranging from blues to greens and yellows. In the winter and in the spring, however, the spots are not as visible.
Besides being an area of ecological importance, Spotted Lake is also a culturally sensitive area for the Okanagan Syilx First Nations people. Spotted Lake is known as Kłlilx’w to the Syilx First Nations people who have traditionally used it for therapeutic purposes. The Syilx First Nations people hold healing ceremonies at Spotted Lake twice a year. It is customary for First Nations people to make an offering upon coming to the lake to pay respect to their ancestors who have used the lake for healing purposes before them.
Spotted Lake, and the 22 hectares of land around it, belong to the Okanagan Nation Alliance Chiefs Executive Council since 2001. It was purchased to preserve this sacred area for future generations and protect it from development.
The lake is about a 10-minute drive west of Osoyoos (about 4.5 hours east of Vancouver) and can easily be seen from the road. There’s a small pullout with room for a few cars to park. Once parked you’ll be confronted with a closed gate because it’s prohibited to get any closer, but the lake’s elevated position gives a good perspective. Respect the signs and do not trespass to get closer to the lake.
If you want to learn more about the Syilx First Nations people and the land where Spotted Lake sits, visit the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre in Osoyoos.
This Spot in Chile Has Some of the Best Sandboarding in the World
Sandboarding in Chile is an experience like no other. From the breathtaking desert landscapes of Atacama to Iquique and the rolling hills of Elqui Valley, sandboarding in this vibrant country provides a unique way to explore its diverse terrain and culture. Not only does it offer a thrilling adrenaline rush, but also provides an opportunity to take in some of the most beautiful sand dunes in the world. The sand is soft and perfect for sandboarding, making it an ideal spot for beginners, as well as those with more experience.
Professional sandboarding instructors are available to guide you through the process, ensuring that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. So if you’re looking for an adventure unlike any other, sandboarding in Chile is the perfect place to start! With its stunning sand dunes and vibrant culture, sandboarding in Chile will surely be an unforgettable experience. So grab your board and prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime journey!
Whether you’re a sandboarding pro or just beginning to learn, there is something for everyone! Start planning your sandboarding adventure today and discover the beautiful sand dunes of Chile. Discover why sandboarding in Chile is becoming one of the must-do activities on everyone’s travel list.
This video offers a quick preview of what you can find on the sand in Iquique.
What to do in Iquique, Chile
@visit Iquique in Chile has some of the highest sand dunes in the world@munay_sandboard #sandboarding #Iquique #chiletravel #summervibes #desertlife ♬ original sound – Visit
Iquique in Chile is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. With sand dunes that stretch for miles and some of the best sandboarding conditions around, Iquique is the perfect place to experience sandboarding at its finest. The sand dunes offer a variety of terrain, from steep drops and large bumps to smooth sand slopes great for sandboarding. You can also explore the city and its nearby villages, enjoy delicious seafood, watch stunning sunsets over the sand dunes, and take in the rich history of this vibrant Chilean port city. With so much to do in Iquique, sandboarding is just one of many reasons why it’s a great destination for an adventurous holiday. So grab your sandboard and head to Iquique for an unforgettable sandboarding experience!
Dining in Ibquique, Chile is also something to look forward to. With its lively seafood restaurants, beachfront bars and cafes, and some of the best ceviche in South America, there’s something for everyone. After sandboarding all day, relax with an alfresco dinner or a romantic rooftop cocktail with views of the sand dunes. And don’t forget to try the local delicacies such as cazuela and caliente. With its unique sandboarding experiences and delicious cuisine, Iquique is the perfect place to explore sand dune sand boarding in Chile!
Tips for sandboarding in ChileSandboarding may look easy, but it can be tricky if you’re new to the sport. Here are some tips to help make sure you have a safe and enjoyable sandboarding experience in Chile:
Wear protective clothing. The sand can be hot and abrasive, so it’s important to wear long pants and shirt, a helmet and gloves for protection.Bring plenty of water. Make sure you stay hydrated while sandboarding as the sun can be intense during peak hours.Warm up with some sand runs. Start off by sandboarding on easy terrain and get used to the feeling before tackling steeper slopes.Be aware of sandstorms. Be sure to check weather forecasts before sandboarding as sandstorms can be common during certain times of the year.Stay within your limits.More like thisOutdoorA Trip To Iceland’s Vestrahorn Is an Otherworldly Experience
December 14, 2022
This Magnificent Airbnb Mansion in Bali Is More Affordable Than You Think
In Bali, the town of Ubud is known as the island’s cultural center, and the word I’d use to describe it is mystical. Here you’ll find the iconic views of terraced rice paddies in shades of green almost too vivid to believe. Rivers stream through Ubud on their way to the sea, flowing through ancient temples and over sacred falls.
Tourists and locals alike come to Ubud for its promise of healing. Beyond your typical health food cafes or yoga studios, this town offers classes on breathwork, chakra alignment, sound healing, ecstatic dance, and more. When all else fails, simply letting the sounds of the surrounding jungle calm your senses feels restorative. It’s the perfect place to hide away with a few friends…or as many as 16 if you book the eight-bedroom, seven-bathroom Ubud Airbnb.
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
We hope you love the Airbnb in Ubud 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.
I was lucky enough to snag this luxurious, open-air villa — complete with two pools and a formal dining room — for a weekend getaway with friends to celebrate my partner and I’s anniversary. It was a truly unforgettable weekend.
Upon arrival, Manipura’s congenial house manager, Putu, greeted me and each of our guests with a refreshing watermelon smoothie and adorned us with leis made of real Balinese flowers. Putu looked after us all weekend — coordinating meals with the in-house chef, arranging massages for all of our guests, even organizing a cooking class during which we all learned to prepare traditional Balinese dishes like fish steamed in banana leaf and sweet kue putu for dessert.
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
The villa was full of unique but tastefully selected design details. A vibrant mural in the kitchen and several artworks throughout the property depict scenes of Indonesian culture. We enjoyed meals in the contemporary dining room where a colorful, glass-blown chandelier hung from its dramatically high ceiling over a custom slab dining table. A similar chandelier hung from the upstairs terrace, complemented by a (faux) zebra-skin rug and sculptural silver chaise.
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Each guest room comes with its own bathroom, so everyone can enjoy their privacy. The master suite, while extravagantly spacious, is the only room with two queen beds and thus better for families than, say, two couples. If the group is feeling extra cozy, another wall can open to include a third-bedroom suite, located just off the front of the villa.
Manipura is within easy driving distance of Ubud’s city center, so we spent the first evening going into town for a uniquely Ubudian experience at the appropriately mystical Merlin’s Magic restaurant and speakeasy. The rest of the weekend was spent, let’s say, recovering at the villa. When we weren’t partaking in meals and massages, we whiled away the day lounging poolside and enjoying delicious seclusion amidst the treetops. We drank cocktails, played card games, and caught up with each other. A few guests even opted for a leisurely bath.
According to Putu, it was a decidedly more muted group than his previous guests, a group of elderly ladies from Texas who called themselves “Adventure Grandmas” and spent their days hiking around Ubud — even river rafting.
I live for opportunities to spoil my friends, and while there are plenty of lovely villas around Bali to do so, the Manipura Estate Villa offered an otherwise hard-to-come-by combination of equitable rooms, unique design, warm hospitality, and ample in-house experiences. It is truly in a class all its own.
Italy’s Famous Blue Grotto Is One of the Most Incredible Boating Spots in the World
The Blue Grotto is one of Italy’s most famous attractions, and it’s easy to understand why. Located on the island of Capri, just off the Amalfi Coast, the grotto dazzles visitors with its magical blue light, and can be accessed by taking a boat from either Naples or Sorrento, which will take you to the nearby Marina Piccola. From there, you will have to take a smaller rowboat into the grotto itself, as its entrance is too small for larger vessels. Although it can be tricky getting into due crowds during peak season and strict safety measures must be observed while inside, the grotto has been enchanting visitors since the days of Ancient Rome, and its light continues to draw in thousands of people from all over the world each year.
@visitFound the World of Avatar: The Way of Water.
The Blue Grotto is a popular sea cave on the coast of the island of Capri, southern Italy. It's famous for its enchanting bright blue waters, which is caused by sunlight passing through an underwater cavity and creating a blue reflection that illuminates the cavern.
Who would you visit with?
Blue Grotto, Capri, Italy ig: @auditors.and.adventures
Getting to the Italian island isn’t exactly difficult, but it does take some planning ahead. You can get to Capri island by taking a ferry from Naples of Sorrento. Once you’re on the island, take a boat tour around the island to admire its stunning coastline before arriving at the grotto. Most tours also provide commentary about Capri and its history, so you can learn more about this fascinating region of Italy.
When you arrive at the Blue Grotto, be prepared for an unforgettable experience. As soon as your boat enters the cave’s entrance, it will be filled with an eerie blue light that gives off an almost magical glow—making it easy to see why this place has been popular for centuries. The cavernous walls also are filled with stalactites and stalagmites that glisten under the sun’s bright rays that peek through an opening near the ceiling. The best way to make sure you get a good view is by taking photos from both inside and outside of the grotto so that you can capture every angle of its unique aesthetic.
As with any location of immense and delicate beauty, it’s important to take note of the rules. No swimming or diving is allowed due to strong currents and sharp rocks around certain areas. Boats are also required to turn off their engines before entering so as not to disturb any wildlife living inside (yes, there is wildlife!).
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