Matador Network's Blog, page 368
January 6, 2023
This Abandoned Quarry in Wales Looks Like a Tropical Swimming Hole
When most people picture a turquoise swimming hole, they usually see a tropical location, surrounded by lush green vegetation, and water warmed by the summer sun. Well, Blue Lagoon in Wales might be a swimming hole, but it has nothing in common with a tropical paradise.
This swimming hole in Pembrokeshire, Wales is actually the remnants of a slate mine called St Brides Slate Quarry. The quarry is located in the small town of Abereiddy, on the coast of Wales. This area is typically gray and rainy, a stark contrast to the brilliant green hue of the water in the (not so) aptly named Blue Lagoon.
At one point, the quarry was intentionally flooded, but stones from the cliff side fell into the sea. The slate rocks eventually turned the water that signature blue-green color that is reminiscent of a tropical swimming hole.
Today, you will find groups of adventurers jumping off the ruins of old quarry buildings into the placid water below. The drop down into the quarry is steep, so only the very brave make the jump. You will also see kayakers and paddleboarders drifting through the waters. One thing that everything has in common? They are all wearing wet suits. This is Wales, after all, and the water is cold.
How to get to the Wales Blue LagoonThe Blue Lagoon in a remote location on the Pembrokeshire coast, on the St. David’s peninsula near Strumble Head Lighthouse. If you’re taking a road trip through Wales, the Pembrokeshire Blue Lagoon needs to be on your itinerary.
It’s actually also possible to walk to the Blue Lagoon, if you are undertaking the Pembrokeshire Coast Path National Trail from Abermawr or Porthgain.
Once you get to Abereiddy, find the Abereiddy Beach car park and park there (there is a fee to park). From there, the walk to the quarry is about 10 minutes. Along the way, you’ll spot ruins from The Row, a series of stone cottages where the miners used to live. Eventually, you will round a corner and arrive at a viewpoint, from which you can see the whole quarry as well as a line of people waiting to dive into the teal waters on the opposite side of the cliff.
For an even better view, you can hike to the top of cliffs, and see the Blue Lagoon from above, as well as the rest of the coastline. If you want to take part in water sports, the water is accessible by a small cove which blocks the quarry from waves and keeps the waters peaceful. Cliff-jumping and swimming are the most popular activities, but if you’d rather just watch other people enjoy the chilly waters of the Blue Lagoon, there are many grassy spots to take in the views and relax. 
The Dal Lake Floating Market in India Is a Shopping Experience Like No Other
For centuries, the Dal Lake Floating Market in India has been a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Located in Srinagar, Kashmir, this colorful market offers visitors an array of items from traditional Kashmiri handicrafts to local produce. You’ll find a variety of items including traditional Kashmiri handicrafts like carpets and shawls as well as fresh fruits and vegetables from local farms. There are also vendors selling spices and teas, jewelry, clothing, and more. Many vendors offer discounts if you buy in bulk or haggle over prices.
@matadornetwork This famous #floatingmarket or #SabjiBazaar can be found on #DalLake in Kashmir, India. All the produce here is grown in the floating gardens on the same lake
@Nishchay Jain #kashmirindia #incredibleindia #travelinspo ♬ оригинальный звук – rinaskrgn
The Dal Lake Floating Market was first established in 1854 as a way for merchants to exchange goods and services. Over time, the market became increasingly popular with locals and tourists alike who would come to take advantage of its unique offerings. Today, the market is still going strong.
The floating market offers more than just the traditional shopping experience. Here, vendors sell their wares from boats that are moored along a four-mile stretch of waterway. It’s a little like stepping into another world. The atmosphere is vibrant and lively with vendors shouting out their wares and customers bargaining for a better price. The lake itself is filled with houseboats that have been converted into restaurants where you can sample some of the local cuisine. The market is open every day from 9am until sunset and visitors can explore dozens of different stalls selling everything from food and drinks to spices and souvenirs. You can even buy handmade carpets, jewelry, and clothes at highly competitive prices.
The market isn’t just about shopping, either. It’s also a cultural hotspot that showcases the rich history of Kashmiri artisanship. You’ll find local craftsmen selling handmade items such as paper mache sculptures and wooden carvings. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even try your hand at bargaining with the vendors for a better deal! There’s also plenty of opportunity to take in the sights of this beautiful lake; take a boat tour around its many islands or explore its hidden corners by foot.
Hike, Swim, and Jump From the Many Waterfalls of Mil Cascadas
Outside of the town of Taxco, in Mexico’s Guerrero state, is a paradise of greenery and turquoise, crystal clear waters. This is Mil Cascadas, or 1000 Waterfalls – a series of waterfalls and natural swimming pools.
Sometimes also known as Las Granadas, Mil Cascadas is one the best attractions in Mexico for people who like to spend their vacation outdoors. There are about 20 waterfalls that are safe to visit. The tiered pools, some of which are more shallow than others, are good for swimming, wading, or taking a quick dip to cool down after a hike.
Once you’re there, you can take part in rigorous physical activities. Around the waterfalls, visitors can hike, swim, even rappel down waterfalls, and explore caves and grottos. Some people even like to jump from the top of the waterfalls into the pools below.
The waterfalls will flow most powerfully during the rainy season, from May to July. Even then, you won’t find many crowds here because it’s not a well known attraction in Mexico yet. On the weekends, you will still have plenty of privacy.
The best way to visit Mil Cascadas is with a tour guide like this one, because that person can tell you where it’s safe to jump and swim from, and will take you to some of the hidden pools and caves for an even more adventurous exploration of the park. Life jackets are also required for swimming in the waterfalls, which a guide can also provide (but you should bring your own towel, a change of clothes, and sneakers).
Mil Cascadas is about three hours from Mexico City, and about an hour from Taxco. A day trip from either place to these waterfalls is easy with a tour group. Some tours will pick up guests in Mexico City and head to Taxco from there, where they can sample the local cuisine before heading in the park. Once you get to the park, there is also the possibility of ziplining and overnight tent camping.
What It Looks Like When One of Guatemala’s Most Active Volcanoes Erupts
The Fuego volcano, located in Guatemala, is an active stratovolcano standing at over 12,000 feet tall, and has been actively erupting since 2002. It’s one of three volcanoes that form the great arc of fire that runs through Central America, and offers travelers an awe-inspiring view as well as a chance to explore some incredible natural phenomena.
@matadornetwork #FuegoVolcano in #Guatemala is one of the most active volcanoes in Central America. For the best view you can hike up the inactive Acatenango Volcano next to it
The Fuego Volcano—which translates from Spanish as “fire” volcano—has been active since 1531, making it one of Central America’s oldest volcanoes. It stands at a majestic 12,346 feet above sea level, making it an impressive sight to behold. The summit crater measures 0.6 miles in diameter and contains several open fumaroles that emit steam and gas throughout the day.
The Fuego volcano is considered one of the most active volcanoes in Central America. It has experienced upwards of 10 eruptions during its active cycle, with some lasting for weeks or months on end. Despite its frequent eruptions, there have been no reported fatalities due to its activity so far. However, it does pose a significant threat to nearby communities due to its proximity to them and its explosive nature.
Despite its activity, many people visit the Fuego volcano each year for sightseeing purposes. Tourists can get a close-up look at this powerful force of nature by signing up for guided tours or by simply observing from afar. Many visitors enjoy watching lava flow down its sides or taking pictures of the plumes emanating from its crater. There are also plenty of scenic hiking trails around the area that offer breathtaking views of not only the volcano but also other nearby attractions such as Lake Atitlan and ancient Mayan ruins.
The Most Relaxing Place in New Orleans Is The Singing Oak
Considered one of the most serene places in New Orleans, this 100 year old oak tree makes music. Known as The Singing Oak, it’s in City Park and the best place to go when you need a break from the music and the crowds.
The branches of the oak are hanging with dozens of wind chimes. You’ll know that you reached the right tree when you spot a plaque at the base of the tree which reads “Let the wind bring you a melody, a smile and a sense of peace and nature.”
An artist named Jim Hart installed the wind chimes as part of an effort to make City Park more appealing to both locals and tourists. City Park is a good place to spend the morning exploring and spending time outdoors in the fresh air before heading into the bars and jazz clubs at night.
A musical tree is the perfect tribute to New Orleans, a city known as one of the best places in the world to see and hear jazz (especially on Bourbon Street). In fact, according to Secret New Orleans, the chimes on the tree are tuned to the “pentatonic scale, the same scale that characterizes West African gospel hymns and New Orleans jazz.”
When the rhythms of New Orleans – which lets face it, can get loud – feel overwhelming, escape to City Park to sit under not just the Singing Oak but one of the park’s many other old and majestic trees, and enjoy a coffee or a book. If you do want to visit the Singing Oak, make sure you do so on a breezy day, so that you can hear the full song created by the chimesh.
This is one of the most peaceful places in New Orleans. The park offers views of Big Lake, and it’s located within walking distance of the New Orleans Museum of Art.
This Art Installation Outside Las Vegas Adds a Jolt of Color To the Desert Landscape
If you’re driving through Nevada, a strange sight might catch your eye: Colorful boulders stacked up along the side of the road. Although there are many multi-colored natural phenomena in this region – including the legendary Fly Geyser – this is something different but just as interesting. It’s called Seven Magic Mountains and it’s an art installation.
Created by a Swedish artist named Ugo Rondinone, Seven Magic Mountains is located 10 miles outside of Las Vegas near Jean Dry Lake, on Interstate 15. The stacked boulders from which the art installation is made tower 30 feet into the air. Rondinone stated that the wanted Seven Magic Mountains to represent, “human presence in the desert.”
Situated within the Ivanpah Valley, Seven Magic Mountains is surrounded by the rich and oranges of the Mojave Desert, with brown monotone mountains in the background and dark green desert plants springing up all around it. Although this landscape is beautiful, it’s also repetitive, and the painted boulders add a jolt of color to the desert.
It’s easy to stop by on a day trip outside of Las Vegas – the drive is less than half an hour – snap a few eye-catching photos, and be back in the city by nightfall. Goodsprings Ghost Town is a 25 minute drive from Seven Magic Mountains, where you can visit the infamous Pioneer Saloon for lunch and a beer.
Thousands of people visit this art installation during tourist season, so it’s recommended to arrive early in the morning. If you can make it at dawn, there will be no crowds, and the view of the sun rising from behind the sculpture is breathtaking.
Painted in bright neon colors like highlighter yellow and pink, Seven Magic Mountains is open to the public, and there are no reservations or tickets required to see it. The project opened in 2016, and was only supposed to be on display for two years, but thanks to its immense popularity, Seven Magic Mountains is still on display. However, the sculpture is temporary – so be sure to see it for yourself next time you’re in Las Vegas.
This Is Dubai’s Most Extravagant Seaside Resort
Situated at the apex of the Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis, The Palm is an iconic entertainment destination in Dubai. It features a range of luxurious hotel accommodations, world-class restaurants and bars, an array of exhilarating water slides at Aquaventure Waterpark, and Dolphin Bay – one of the most sophisticated marine habitats in the world.
The unique architecture at Atlantis, The Palm features an imaginative design influenced by the lost city of Atlantis. From its mesmerizing lobby that captivates at first sight to the stunning suites overlooking the Arabian Sea, every detail at this iconic destination has been carefully crafted and designed for luxurious comfort and relaxation.
The resort also offers a range of dining and entertainment options, from the thrilling rides at Aquaventure Waterpark to an array of soothing spa treatments at ShuiQi Spa and Fitness. Guests can explore the depths of the ocean at Dolphin Bay or spend a day at The Lost Chambers Aquarium – both offering fascinating insights into the marine life beneath its waters.
@epic.stays This hotel in #Dubai has one of the coolest underwater bathrooms#AtlantisthePalm
We hope you love Atlantis, The Palm! 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.
Accommodations at Atlantis, The PalmThe resort’s hotel accommodation at Atlantis, The Palm offers an unforgettable experience with its beautiful suites and rooms. From the Royal towers to the Imperial Club Rooms, each of the spacious accommodations at this luxury destination is fitted with luxurious amenities that ensure a comfortable stay.
For guests looking for an enhanced experience at Atlantis, The Palm, the Imperial Club Rooms offer exclusive access to a private lounge, where guests can enjoy a selection of complimentary food and drinks throughout the day.
Dining at Atlantis, The PalmThe resort is home to some of the finest restaurants, bars and cafés in Dubai. Enjoy a romantic dinner at Nobu or sample some of the region’s most exquisite flavors at Ronda Locatelli. For something more casual, head over to Bread Street Kitchen & Bar for a delicious brunch or sip on your favorite cocktails at Nasimi Beach.
Atlantis, The Palm is the perfect destination for families looking to spend some quality time together. Spend a day at Aquaventure Waterpark or explore the depths of the ocean at Dolphin Bay. Atlantis also offers a range of exciting kids’ activities at its Little Penguins club, which includes creative workshops and fun-filled swimming sessions.
More like thisCultureWhy Dubai Is the Best Destination for First Timers To the Middle EastThis Resort in Oman Is the Country’s Most Luxurious Oasis
Oman is a country full of natural beauty and fascinating culture, making it the perfect destination for an unforgettable getaway. Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort offers travelers the chance to explore this wonderful country at its best, with stunning views over the mountain range. This five-star luxury mountain resort is located in Oman‘s rugged Hajar Mountains. Anantara boasts spectacular views of the dramatic gorges and rolling hills and modern amenities designed to provide guests with an unforgettable experience. Anantara features suites and villas that offer guests access to a range of services, such as private infinity pools, spa facilities, and breathtaking views.
@epic.stays Beautiful sunset overlooking the canyon in #Oman
We hope you love traveling to Oman! 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.
Anantara also features multiple restaurants offering a variety of cuisines from around the world. Anantara ensures guests have plenty to do, with activities ranging from yoga classes to hiking or swimming in one of the resort’s many pools. Anantara also offers guests access to an on-site gym and a variety of entertainment options, including live music performances. Anantara’s concierge team can help arrange excursions or activities for guests who wish to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Restaurants at the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort<Anantara offers six restaurants and bars offering a range of international cuisines from around the world. Anantara features local specialties such as Omani grilled seafood and shawarma, Italian wood-fired pizzas, and Indian tandoori dishes. Anantara also has multiple poolside bars for guests to enjoy cocktails and drinks.
What to do near the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar ResortThe Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort is located in Oman’s rugged Hajar Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the dramatic gorges and rolling hills. Anantara offers guests access to a variety of activities and excursions, including hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Anantara’s concierge team can arrange excursions to local attractions such as the nearby An Nakhl oasis, or a visit to one of Oman’s picturesque wadis. Anantara also has an on-site spa offering a range of treatments and services.
This Is What It Looks Like To Swim in Croatia’s ‘Eye of the Earth’
When it comes to breathtaking scenery and unique cultural experiences, Croatia is a must-see destination. From its stunning Adriatic coastline and islands to its vibrant cities and charming villages, Croatia has quite a lot of appealing destinations packed into a small country, especially if you like the outdoors. But one of the most picturesque spots in the entire country is the “Eye of the Earth,” in the southern part of the country.
The Eye of the Earth, officially called the Izvor Cetine, or the Cetina River Spring, is a natural spring at the base of the Dinara mountain range. Similar to a sinkhole, the natural spring is fed by the same underground aquifer that feeds the nearby Cetina River, which empties into the Adriatic Sea. And there’s no secret as to why it got its imposing nickname.
@visit The eye of the earth! This magnificent spring has an unusual shape and colour and is one of the sources of Dalmatia’s longest river, the Cetina. It stretches for about 65 miles before emptying into the Adriatic Sea. Its waters flow at the foot of the Dinara, Croatia’s highest mountain massif. It is known as the “eye of the earth” because it resembles an eye in various shades of blue and turquoise. From above, it is undeniably one of the region’s most unique and fascinating natural wonders. Would you visit?
The rocks around the natural wonder form a perfect circle around the almond-shaped, emerald-green pool. Because it’s quite deep in the center — divers have made it to about 400 feet below the surface — there’s a dark blue shade in the middle that looks exactly like a dark blue eye. It may look shallow from the surface, but if you’re able to see the Eye of the Earth from above, it’s clear it extends deep into the ground.
How to reach the Eye of the Earth
The Eye of the Earth is in the long, southern tip of Croatia, about an hour north of the popular tourist town of Split. if you’re driving there from Dubrovnik, where the primary international airport is, it’ll take you between three and four hours of driving (not including the border crossings).
You can easily rent a car and drive yourself, or join an organized tour and let someone else do the work. Dalmatia Untouched offers tours that include visits to Eye of the Earth as well as lunch and stops at some other nearby beaches and small towns, and Discovery Tours pairs a visit to the natural spring with a local wine tasting.
What to do at Eye of the EarthPhoto: Airpixel – Drone imagery/Shutterstock
Aside from simply admiring its beauty, most visitors to Eye of the Earth come to swim in the crystal-clear waters. Like hot springs, the water comes from beneath the surface, but unlike hot springs, it’s quite cold, even in summer. The spring is also very close to Dinara Nature Park, established in 2021 and known primarily for hiking. The park has 10 peaks nearing 5,000 feet above sea level, which means there are quite a few nearby trails. The most popular is likely the nine-mile Croatia – Dinara hike, which gains more than 4,000 feet on the way to the country’s highest peak.
This region of Croatia, called Dalmatia, also has more than 1,800 miles of mountain biking trails, and nearby Split is known for stunning beaches and ruins from the third and fourth centuries CE. Roadtripping is also one of the most popular activities in this part of Europe, especially if you plan to add in visits to some of Croatia’s fabulous national parks.
Book These Overwater Bungalows in the Maldives for Under $350 Per Night
The Maldives is a tropical paradise located in the middle of the Indian Ocean. This stunning archipelago of more than 1,000 islands offers spectacular white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It’s a place unlike any other with its incredible beauty and diverse wildlife, making it a top destination for luxury resort vacations, romantic getaways, and unforgettable family holidays.
Because of this, it is one of the most expensive holiday destinations in the world. The cost of flights, accommodation, food, and activities can add up quickly, making it difficult for those on a tight budget to enjoy the incredible beauty and culture the country has to offer. But if you plan carefully and find good deals, you can even afford to stay at an overwater bungalow. Here are the most budget-friendly resorts in the Maldives.
We hope you love the overwater bungalows we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
What is an overwater bungalow?Overwater bungalows in the Maldives are truly spectacular. Positioned over glimmering lagoons and perfect for watching stunning sunsets, this type of accommodation is one of a kind. Many bungalows come with private pools, decks, and balconies, creating a mini retreat where you can relax in privacy. They also come with all the comforts of home — spacious rooms, modern amenities, attentive staff — and the chance to take advantage of on-site activities such as swimming, snorkeling, or diving in the beautiful coral reefs below.
@epic.stays Replying to @dfodrie Here are the two cheapest resorts with overwater bungalows in the #Maldives : 1. Sun Island Resort & Spa $345 USD/per night 2. Reethi Beach Resort $311 USD/per night #overwaterbungalow #budgettravel #traveltiktok #luxurytravelonabudget #traveltiktok #greenscreen ♬ Sensual Seduction – Snoop Dogg
The cheapest overwater bungalows in the MalivesSun Island Resort
Photo: Booking.com
The overwater bungalows at Sun Island Resort in the Maldives offer guests an idyllic escape. Perched atop turquoise lagoons and surrounded by lush greenery, the bungalows provide stunning views. Inside, they are lavishly appointed with modern amenities and luxuries such as king-size beds, air conditioning, state-of-the-art electronics, private balconies, and their own private plunge pool. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or just looking to relax and unwind, Sun Island Resort’s overwater bungalows will not disappoint.
Cost per night — $345
Reethi Beach Resort
Photo: Booking.com
Located on a stunning 14-acre tropical island, Reethi Beach Resort offers visitors beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking or diving. From the resort’s overwater villas and beach bungalows to their on-site spa and international cuisine, there are plenty of ways to pamper yourself.
Cost per night — $311
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