Matador Network's Blog, page 371

Alaska’s Glass Dome Train Cars Are the Best Way To See the State From the Comfort of the Indoors

Train travel is the way to go if you want to take in the scenery while you journey. That said, not all trains are created equal — some rides provide much more picturesque views than others. Trains in Switzerland, as well as Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer, for example, are world-famous for impressing passengers with breathtaking landscapes visible through panoramic cars with glass roofs. But in the US, your best bet for thrilling vistas from the rails is the glass dome train in Alaska.

@visit The absolute best way to see Alaska's amazing scenery is by glass dome train. You'll have a 360-degree view of everything around you. Alaska Railroad has routes across the state that operate year round @Jasmin McCarthy #alaskatravels #traintok #travelinspo #alaskarailroad #alaskatrain ♬ original sound – Visit

The glass dome cars on the Alaska Railroad provide an immersive experience through the vast glaciers, evergreen forests, and rugged mountains of the state — an train ride that you won’t soon forget.

The glass dome cars on the Alaska Railroad trains are only guaranteed to passengers who purchased the GoldStar Service experience on the Coastal Classic train (from Anchorage to Seward) or the Denali Star Train (from Anchorage to Fairbanks). From this very special glass-ceiling car, travelers get nearly 360-degree view of Alaska’s gorgeous terrain and wildlife in plush seats. If they want fresh air with their views, GoldStar ticket holder can also access an outdoor viewing platform. The GoldStar experience is on the pricey side, but it includes a full meal, soft drinks, and two adult beverages.

If you can’t afford the GoldStar experience, know that Adventure Class ticket holders are seated in cars with large windows and that they have access to open seating in the Vista Dome car (only in the summer). You may be able to pay less and still score some exceptional views!

And if Alaska is a tad too far for you, know that the following Amtrak routes across the US have great observation cars (some even go through the nation’s most beautiful national parks):

California ZephyrCity of New OrleansCoast StarlightEmpire BuilderSouthwest ChiefSunset LimitedTexas Eagle More like thisTrain TravelRiding the Alaska Railroad Is a Fun and Beautiful Way To See the 49th State

The best Christmas markets in Europe

Christmas is already around the corner. You may be in denial because snow has yet to arrive, but fall is behind us, and it’s high time to start planning your holiday travels. Between the mulled wine, carols, and delicious sweet treats, organizing a trip to a Christkindelsmärik in Europe is the most festive way to head straight into the holiday season. Christmas in Europe must be celebrated with a cinnamon coated chimny cakle in one hand and cheese-filled bratwurst in the other. So, this year, plan for a perfectly wintry holiday experience at one of the seven best Christmas markets in Europe.

What is the best Christmas market to visit in Europe?Which is the biggest Christmas market in Europe?What are the dates of Christmas markets in Europe?1. Leipzig, Germany

Photo: Leipzig Travel/Facebook

Dating back to 1458, Leipzig’s Christmas market is one of the oldest in Germany, as well as one of the largest with more than 250 stalls — including a medieval market, one of the main attractions — are spread across six locations in the historical city center.

The magic of a Leipzig Christmas is found in the simple pleasures, like nibbling on local pulsnitz gingerbread as traditional trombonists perform their nightly routine on the balcony of the Old Town Hall. Don’t leave without finding a feuerzangenbowle stand; the traditional German alcoholic drink involves setting a rum-soaked sugarloaf on fire and allowing it to drip into mulled wine. Leipzig’s market takes place from November 23 until December 23, 2021.

2. Kaysersberg, France

Photo: Office de tourisme de la vallée de Kaysersberg via Visit Alsace

The Kaysersberg Christmas market festivities take place along the town’s historic ramparts — including a watchtower that was once part of the Château de Kaysersberg. Craftsmen’s wooden chalets at the market include wooden toys, pottery, and Christmas decorations produced from blown glass, wood, fabrics, and other artisan specialties. Save room for must-try Christmas treats like bredeles (a traditional biscuit from the area made with almonds, nuts, anise, chocolate or vanilla), kougelhopfs, hot chocolate, and mulled wine. The Alastian town of Kaysersberg, fully decked out in lights, wreaths, and pine garlands hosts the Christmas market every weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) from 26 November to 19 December 2021.

3. Vienna, Austria

Photo: S.Borisov/Shutterstock

Shop for handcrafted goods between visits to hot punch and chestnut stands at the Viennese Christmas markets — and make sure to indulge in freshly baked vanillekipferl, a nutty, buttery, crescent-shaped traditional biscuit dusted with vanilla sugar. Vienna’s Christmas market tradition dates back to 1298 when Albrecht I granted citizens the right to hold a Krippenmarkt, or December market. Today, over 20 official Christmas villages are held all across Vienna. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, you can also listen to international choirs caroling at City Hall. This year, all Viennese Christmas markets are expected to open on December 13, 2021.

4. Montreux, Switzerland

Photo: Montreux Noël

Switzerland’s Montreux Noël takes place along the shores of Lake Geneva, with live music, light shows, and 150 illuminated chalet stalls creating a warm ambiance for visitors as they stroll and enjoy the ritzy resort town in the wintertime. Look out for Santa Claus on his flying sleigh between Hunter’s Place and Place du Marché every day at 5 PM, 6 PM, and 7 PM (Saturdays at 4 PM), and don’t miss the chance to try a cup of logger’s tea from The Logger’s Cabin located in front of the train station or fondue-based specialties from Chalet Heidi. Montreux Noël will take place from November 19 to December 24, 2021.

5. Strasbourg, France

Photo: MarinaDa/Shutterstock

For a true holiday extravaganza, head to the oldest Christmas market in France (and one of the oldest in all of Europe), sometimes referred to as “the capital of Christmas.” The Strasbourg Christmas market dates all the way back to 1570, and this year’s market is scheduled for November 26 through December 26. Located in the Grande-Île, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Strasbourg’s Christmas market is made up of 300 stalls spread throughout the historic city center. Much of it takes place near the Cathédral Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, an intricate 15th-century, gothic-style cathedral. The fragrance of mulled wine and fresh spiced pastries like kougelhopf brioches and pain d’épice drift through the cold streets, enticing visitors to indulge.

6. Vilnius, Lithuania

Photo: Go Vilnius

Complete with one of the most dazzling Christmas trees in the world, Vilnius doesn’t hold back for the holidays. The famous 88-foot tree, bedazzled in over 1.2 mile of lighting, 3,000 artificial branches, and 46 mirrors is a truly dazzling Yuletide experience set in Cathedral Square, in Old Town Vilnius. Surrounding the tree is the Christmas Village and its medley of Christmas market stalls, making it a one-stop shop for the holidays. Other attractions for visitors include the Vilnius Christmas Train, coming from Kaunas and Klaipėda, and the 3D projection of a Christmas fairytale on the Cathedral. The Vilnius Christmas market is open from November 27, 2021 to January 9, 2022.

7. Colmar, France

Photo: Alsace/Facebook

Each of the six mini villages making up La Magie de Noël à Colmar, which takes place from November 26 to December 23, has distinct charms. Colmar’s Christmas market is comprised of 180 stalls spread throughout Old Colmar, providing a fairytale setting for all your sugarplum dreams. This French town shares a border with Germany and Switzerland, and the Alsace influence is most evident in the market’s gourmet goodies: Expect to find local producers selling everything from foie gras (duck or goose liver) to cheese, meats, honey, gingerbread, cakes, and more.

8. Budapest, Hungary

Photo: karnizz/Shutterstock

In the Budapest, the Christmas fair is held at Vorosmarty Square. A second Christmas market is located at St. Stephen’s Square, near St. Stephen’s Basilica. There is a concert stage, wooden stalls presenting delicate crafts, like ornaments, and then the smell of sausages and potato dumplings wafts in every direction. At St. Stephen’s Square, visitors can watch an elaborate Christmas-themed light show projected onto the Basilica’s facade. Troupes of folk dancers also perform, and families can enjoy the excitement of the ice rink.

9. Gdansk, Poland

Photo: Sheviakova Kateryna/Shutterstock

The dates of the Gdansk Christmas market in Poland double as a giant advent calendar, each day revealing a new surprise behind each window. This Christmas market is dotted with adorable, festive attractions like this one — including a specific spot for couples to kiss under the mistletoe and a windmill where visitors can grab a cup of hot mulled wine. There is plenty to keep children entertained here too, from the daily parade of elves that makes its way through the market, to the sleigh simulator and ornate carousel.

10. Madrid, Spain

Photo: Ivan Soto Cobos/Shutterstock

Located in the Plaza Mayor, the signature red stalls in the Madrid Christmas market sell hand made crafts. This market is best known for selling nativity scene figurines, called belén. If you’re looking to try some festive sweets and pastries, head to the Feria Dulces de Navidad in Plaza Isabel. Madrid Christmas markets also sell one item you might not find at other markets in Europe: what in America we would call “gag gifts,” funny joke toys that are given out on Day of the Holy Innocents, the Spanish equivalent of April Fool’s Day. During Christmas market season in Madrid, the streets are all decorated with multi-colored, intricate Christmas light displays.

11. Tallinn, Estonia

Photo: RistoH/Shutterstock

The Christmas market in Tallinn, Estonia boasts one remarkable feature: Every year since 1441, a Christmas tree has been erected in the city center, making it the very first city in Europe to display a Christmas tree. Food stalls sell Estonian favorites like black pudding, sauerkraut, and duck legs. Kids can drop letters to Santa at town hall. There are several tempting flavors of glögg (a type of mulled wine), including blood orange and chili, and blueberry-blackcurrant. The market specializes in sheep’s wool gifts, from baby blankets, to slippers and mittens.

12. Dresden, Germany

Photo: Marina Datsenko/Shutterstock

Not only is the Striezelmarkt in Dresden one of the biggest Christmas markets in Germany, it’s also almost certainly the oldest Christmas market in Europe. Located in Altmarkt Square, this Christmas market is decorated with multiple Christmas trees and nativity scenes. Visitors will be drawn to the Christmas pyramid, a tiered tower decorated with figurines and topped with a fan. There’s also a ferris wheel which offers a panoramic view of the entire market from the top.

13. Salzburg, Austria

Photo: Calin Stan/Shutterstock

The Christmas market in Salzburg focuses on Austrian folk traditions, so expect parades through market featuring characters like Christmas Krampus. Located outside the Hohensalzburg fortress, choral singing and traditional wind instruments called Turmblasen, add to the serene, festive atmosphere.

14. Manchester, UK

Photo: Calin Stan/Shutterstock

The Christmas markets in Manchester set up shop in Piccadilly Gardens. This Christmas market is decked out with festive treats: There’s a beer garden, and food stalls selling bratwurst, churros, and frites. There’s a fire pit for the over 18 crowd. A puppet show roams around the market, as do giant penguins and a mobile band. Rumor has it, Santa Claus is watching over the whole affair from his position in St Peter’s Square.

15. Prague, Czech Republic

Photo: Rostislav Glinsky/Shutterstock

At the Christmas market in the Old Town Square in Prague, witness the magnificent spires of Our Lady Before Tyn cathedral decorated with Christmas lights. Cauldrons of traditional Czech fish stew bubble in food stalls through out the food market, which also serve garlic topped flatbread and barbecue. Whole hams roast on spits, tempting visitors with their delicious aromas. Trdelník is a traditional Czech pastry that is baked over an open fire and filled with ice cream that visitors to the market will not want to miss. Neither is the towering Christmas tree erected in the Old Town Square, or the petting zoo for kids.

What is the best Christmas market to visit in Europe?

The best Christmas market in Europe is a subject of debate. Some contend that grand city of Prague holds the most festive market, where visitors can experience elaborate nativity scenes and outdoor concerts. Others bestow the honor to the Christmas market in Cologne, Germany, which hosts multiple Christmas markets throughout the holiday season.

Which is the biggest Christmas market in Europe?

The biggest Christmas market in Europe happens in Vienna, Austria, near the city’s historic city hall, called the Rathausplatz. The Vienna Christmas market receives around 3 million visitors every year. There also many Christmas markets spread all over Cologne, Germany, adding up to one huge festive celebration.

What are the dates of Christmas markets in Europe?

The dates of Christmas markets in Europe generally run from mid to late November to early January, although some of them close on Christmas Eve. Typically, if you’re visiting Europe during the holiday season, you should have at least a month and half to explore the Christmas markets.

What are the Christmas markets in Europe called?

The Christmas markets in Europe have many different names. In Germany and Austria, Christmas markets are called Weihnachtsmarkt or sometimes Striezelmarkt. In other parts of Europe, Christmas markets are known an Advent Hall.

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California’s Only All-Suite Beach Resort Offers the Central Coast’s Most Unique Stay

Oxnard’s recently unveiled Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach is a destination in and of itself as the only all-suite oceanfront resort in California (and one of the only true oceanside resorts on the west coast). Geographically, it’s perfectly placed between the cities of Santa Barbara and Malibu, serving as a secluded escape to relax with breathtaking ocean sights.

The resort gets its name from the region’s storied history. In the early 1900s, Henry Oxnard, an entrepreneur and sugar tycoon, outlined his plans to use the long stretch of land along California’s Central Coast to grow and process sugar beets. He wanted to name his newly founded community after the Greek word for sugar, “Zachari,” but ultimately named the region after his namesake. Today, Zachari Dunes’ name pays homage to Henry and his original vision while giving a new meaning to the likeness of those tall, sugary sandy dunes lining the property’s perimeter and adorning the seaside landscapes of this town.

Zachari Dunes emits a laid-back, upscale vibe that properly speaks to the atmosphere of the entire Central Coast of California. There are seemingly endless activities to enjoy on-site and around town — but perhaps one of the most notable elements of the property is its guest rooms. Each room is a multi-room suite, making for exceptionally spacious accommodations to enjoy any overnight stay.

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Rooms at the Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach

Photo courtesy Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach

Photo courtesy Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach

Photo courtesy Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach

There are 244 suites on-site, including six presidential suites. These suites each offer more than 600 square feet of space, with two separate rooms including a full-sized living room with a pull-out couch, two full baths, and a dining area with a wet bar. You’ll also find a microwave and a refrigerator in each room, creating a setup that can comfortably accommodate four people — perfect for groups, families, or for those who want enough room to spread out. The patio or balconies are outfitted with a table and chairs, making for an ideal spot to watch the sunset over the ocean.

Immediately upon walking into the lobby through the entrance, guests will encounter an open, airy, and bright space with white walls and floor-to-vaulted ceiling windows, feeling as if they’ve fallen naturally into a relaxed vacation mode (even those who are technically here on business, since the property offers an abundance of meeting spaces for groups).

With the resort fee, guests can enjoy standard hotel amenities, fitness and wellness classes, PressReader access, and local discounts to some of the region’s most popular attractions like kayaking, Jet Ski rentals, and parasailing reservations. Plus, the resort fee covers something extra special — access to Henry’s Sundries & Gear Rental for two hours of borrowing an item of their choice. This one-stop shop boasts a wide range of equipment to explore areas by land and sea.

Visitors can rent out standard beach essentials like beach chairs, surfboards, and boogie boards — in addition to unique offerings like DSLR cameras, telescopes, a guitar, video game consoles, and even a vintage record player.

Wellness at Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach

Photo courtesy Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach

Photo courtesy Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach

For a health-conscious stay, the spa service and the well-equipped 1,600 square-foot fitness center are open 24/7 and boast high-quality equipment like Peloton bikes, LifeFitness treadmills, and free weight equipment. There are also Tennis Courts, Bicycle Rentals, eight nearby golf courses, and multiple resort pools with cabanas and direct access to Mandalay Beach.

This property’s overall architectural design takes advantage of California’s radiant weather, offering abundant natural outdoor space and on-site seating areas for guests to sit and soak up the sunshine. Visitors can spend time in the central courtyard plaza area and admire the lush, living, tropical plants lining the perimeter of pathways around the property. And the multiple outdoor fire pits are an ideal spot to sit and savor the evening’s mild temperatures, perhaps even outfitted with a cocktail or roasted s’mores.

Adjacent to the pool is the perfect “21 and up” hangout spot made for guests to spend an evening unwinding — while feeling like a carefree kid again. “Dive” is a playground for grown-ups with a bar serving cocktails and bites featuring comfortable lounge seating, with lots of games of all shapes and sizes to enjoy. Visitors can find seemingly every kind of entertainment — from mini basketball hoops, a pool table, a wall made of dart board material (you can’t miss!), Monopoly, playing cards, and almost any other game under the sun. It’s the chance to bring back those nostalgic childhood memories while enjoying the luxury of adult freedom.

The resort’s upscale restaurant, Ox & Ocean, serves a curated menu of refined cuisine and unique craft cocktails alongside a wine menu hand-picked by the property’s food and beverage manager. Guests can enjoy a relaxed breakfast or seaside lunch, followed by an elevated dinner experience with cuisine inspired and serviced by the abundance of fresh local provisions of the Central Coast.

Zachari also features an on-site eatery called Sugar Beats (a play on the area’s “sugar beet” history), which hosts an easy grab-and-go dining experience for those seeking a casual bite. This converted vintage airstream trailer is located near the pool area, where guests can grab some food while listening to the musical stylings of favorite musicians and nostalgic throwback artists under the shade of the dense trees and near the tranquil sounds of the resort’s waterfalls and stream water features.

Here, guests can buy anything from a cup of local coffee and breakfast to snacks like fresh-made seafood options and refreshing to-go drinks like craft beer, single-serve cocktails and wine.

Zachari Dunes is also an ideal spot to host meetings and events, boasting more than 23,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor event space, catering services for conferences and receptions, and an executive boardroom that can accommodate 14 people. Plus, as the property is a Hilton Honors Points & Miles member, guests can earn loyalty credits for spending a night.

Overall, spending a night at Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach is bound to be a relaxing and enjoyable experience — no matter the season or the reason behind the visit.

Price: From $196 per night

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An Inside Look at Imam Ali Mosque, One of the Most Visited Holy Sites in the World

For millennia, faith has pushed people to build grand, extravagant structures to honor and worship their gods, including churches, synagogues, temples, mosques, and more. But you don’t need to be a believer to be awed by the beauty of religious buildings around the world. Case in point: the stunning Imam Ali Mosque.

@visit

Magical Iraq This is the Imam Ali Mosque, one of the most visited Islamic sites in the world that's famously known as the burial place of Imam Ali, a companion of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. A lovely place to meditate and self-reflect, this shows the praying area around the shrine. How beautiful is this place? Imam Ali Mosque, Iraq Ig: @seiftamer_

♬ original sound – Visit

The Imam Ali Shrine complex (often known more simply as the Imam Ali Mosque) in the city of Najaf, Iraq, is one of the holiest sites for Shia Muslims all around the world. Built in honor of Imam Ali — Prophet Mohammed’s cousin and son-in-law — it attracts millions of pilgrims each year.

The Imam Ali shrine complex was built around 977, but has been reconstructed, extended, and renovated several times over the centuries, including after the 2003 invasion of Iraq led by the US.

The current exterior design of the complex includes an outer brick wall punctured with five highly decorated gates through which visitors enter the courtyard. Inside the courtyard is the shrine of Imam Ali marked by the immense golden dome and two golden minarets. Worshippers may enter the shrine through seven arched gates and access the mausoleum of Imam Ali. As a sign of devotion, many worshippers kiss and touch the doors of the gates by which they enter and leave, as well as the mausoleum of Imam Ali.

What is visible in the video above is the Ruwaq of Abu Talib, an area of prayer and reflection next door to where the mausoleum is kept. And much like the room where the tomb is located, the Ruwaq of Abu Talib is a feast for the eyes, with ornate domed ceilings, large glass chandeliers, marble columns, bejeweled walls, carved doors, and beautiful rugs to accommodate worshippers. The light bounces off all those shiny elements of decoration and the rooms sparkles brighly, giving the Imam Ali Mosque a magical appearance.

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The 32 Most Affordable Michelin Star Restaurants in New York City

As of November 2022, New York City has 72 Michelin-starred restaurants, one of the most highly decorated cities in the country, when it comes to restaurant accolades. While the coveted star can drive the price of a dinner out of the majority of New Yorkers and tourists’ reach (at Masa, the most expensive Michelin star restaurant in New York City, dinner costs nearly $600 per person), nearly half have tasting menus for under $200. There are even a few affordable Michelin star restaurants in New York City where you can enjoy the entire experience for under $100 (including the tip), as long as you are willing to skip wine and cocktails.

The distribution of affordable Michelin star restaurants in New York City is unevenly distributed throughout the five boroughs. The Bronx and Staten Island are not represented at all. 63 of NYC’s 72 Michelin-starred restaurants are located in Manhattan. Nearly all of those are below Central Park. Brooklyn has eight, while Queens (the borough that Andrew Zimmern claims would be the world’s greatest food city if it were not one of the boroughs) has just one.

Another noticeable trend is that the list is mostly populated by New American, French, Japanese and Korean restaurants. Most are dinner-only as well, with only a few offering takeout. Though they are affordable, relative to the most expensive Michelin restaurants in New York City, dinner at any of these restaurants might still require saving up or splurging for a special occasion. Either way, affordable Michelin star restaurants in New York City are still worth dressing up for.

The most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants to book for dinner1. Claro

Claro is where Oaxaca meets Brooklyn in the heart of Gowanus. This Southern Mexican restaurant is chef T.J. Steele’s love letter to the state where he spent years living part-time. With a $78 four-course dinner menu and three-course brunch at just $48, Claro is the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurant in NYC.

Price: $48 – $78

Where: 284 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215

2. Oxalis

Photo: Oxalis

Oxalis, on the the most affordable Michelin star restaurants in New York City, has Sunday brunch for just $50. You can enjoy the $150 carte blanche menu in the dining room, while the prix-fixe option for $65 is available at The Bar. Reservations are encouraged but not required.

Price: $50 – $150

Where: 791 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238

3. Red Paper Clip

Located in the heart of the West Village, Red Paper Clip is one of just seven affordable Michelin star restaurants in New York City with a tasting menu under $100. While the menu is subject to change, the focus is on Taiwanese and American flavors. Subtle twists to classic dishes include cavatelli with nori (seaweed) and a spicy sichuan carpaccio starter. Chef and owner Kevin Chen is a native New Yorker who grew up in the food business.

Price: $90

Where: 120 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014

4. 63 Clinton

Named after its location on the Lower East Side, 63 Clinton offers a seven-course seasonal menu for $92. Veteran NYC chef Sam Clonts chooses what goes on the modern American menu: You’ll find options like smoked corn and short ribs. Want to add a luxury twist to your meal? Order the caviar hand roll for $55.

Price: $92

Where: 63 Clinton St, New York, NY 10002

5. Batard

Photo: Daniel Krieger

The two-course tasting menu at Batard starts at $79. Located in the chic Tribeca neighborhood,  the prices at Batard go up incrementally depending on how many courses you want (up to four). The menu incorporates Mediterranean flavors into fishes like venison, branzino, and poached halibut, with black burgundy truffles available for an additional $10-45.

Price: $79 – $105

Where: 239 W Broadway, New York, NY 10013

6. Dirt Candy

Also located on the Lower East side, Dirt Candy is famous for its vegetarian tasting menu for $95. While the menu changes with the seasons, you can always count on interesting options (like mustard greens sorbet) throughout your meal. Each dish showcases a different vegetable, from bell peppers to kale to mushrooms. The wine pairing is an additional $50.

Price: $95

Where: 86 Allen St, New York, NY 10002

7. Joomak Banjum

At Joomak Banjum, both tasting menus start at under $200. The standard four-course option starts at $95, and you’ll have a few choices for each course, including octopus and duck galbi. Caviar is an additional $30. For something less flexible but more elaborate, try the eight-course French, Japanese, and Korean-centric Ugly Duckling tasting menu, which highlights dishes like a beef tartare banh mi, and a raspberry and cashew eclair.

Price: $95 – $170

Where: 312 5th Ave, New York, NY 10001

8. The Four Horsemen

This Williamsburg wine bar has a $110 tasting menu, but you won’t get any hints about what it features on the website. If your group is less than five, you can also order from the a la carte menu where plates are mostly under $30. 20% gratuity is added regardless of the party size.

Price: $110

Where: 295 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211

9. Contra

At Contra, most plates, from the caviar and tofu to the scallop, are under $30, but there’s also the “carte blanche” tasting menu option for $120. With the latter, options change daily; right now guests can enjoy a mushroom tart and monkfish, among other choices. And regardless of which option you choose, the combinations tend to be daring. Ever tried potato ice cream?

Price: $120

Where: 138 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002

10. The Musket Room

Located in the trendy Nolita (once part of Little Italy) neighborhood, The Musket Room has a $125 tasting menu. There are two options: omnivore or vegan. Both come with seven courses, but the omnivore option has a handful of supplemental options. The dishes here are rich and luxurious – think ricotta mousse, quail, and foie gras.

Price: $125

Where: 265 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10012

11. Sushi Ginza Onodera

With the possible exception of French fine dining spots, sushi restaurants are the most well-represented when it comes to Michelin starred restaurants in New York. The seasonal omakase lunch menus at Sushi Ginza Onodera’s New York location are between $130-180, depending on how many nigiri you want to try. The 17-course chef’s selection will set you back about the same amount as a Midtown hotel during summer, and includes options like fatty tuna, barracuda, and king salmon.

Price: $130 – $450

Where: 461 5th Ave, New York, NY 10017

12. Jua

Jua is a Korean wood-fired grill restaurant located ten blocks south of Koreatown. The seven-course tasting menu is $135. You can see the options on the website, which includes caviar and smoked mackerel, but there are no more detailed descriptions. Uni and wine pairing are available for an additional $28 and $95.

Price: $135

Where: 36 E 22nd St, New York, NY 10010

13. Kochi

Korean for “skewer,” Kochi has a nine-course tasting menu of traditional Korean fare, each one of which is served on a stick. Drinks pairing is an additional $95. Courses include sweet pumpkin soup and crispy shrimp. While there’s no vegan-friendly menu, Kochi can accommodate vegetarians with at least one day’s notice.

Price: $135

Where: 652 10th Ave, New York, NY 10036

14. Mari

Photo: Dan Ahn

Also located in Hell’s Kitchen, Mari is chef Sungchul Shim’s second restaurant. The $135 tasting menu is focused on Korean handrolls with kimbap ingredients. Variations include pine mushrooms, snow crab, and duck hand rolls. Sool pairing is an additional $105.

Price: $135

Where: 679 9th Ave, New York, NY 10036

15. Family Meal at Blue Hill

A departure from the upscale tasting menu at Blue Hill at Stone Barns, Family Meal at Blue Hill in Manhattan charges $145 per person and serves family-style portions. There’s no set food menu, and the restaurant specifies that the atmosphere is casual. All the dishes are meant to be shared. You can get the wine and cocktail list from the website.

Price: $145

Where: 75 Washington Pl, New York, NY 10011

16. L’Abeille

Photo: Nicole Franzen

Located just south of the Holland Tunnel entrance, L’Abeille has a $145 discovery menu with an optional $95 wine pairing. The French restaurant, which opened back in March, also has a more extensive tasting menu for $195. This is decadent, complex French food: Grilled mackerel, roasted venison, foie gras in flan form are all featured on the tasting menu. There’s also a bar-only a la carte menu.

Price: $145 – $195

Where: 412 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10013

17. Sushi Nakazawa

Sushi Nakazawa’s omakase menu includes 20 pieces of nigiri. It’s $180 to sit at the sushi counter, but you can save $30 by grabbing a table in the dining room. There’s also a DC location.

Price: $150 – $180

Where: 23 Commerce St, New York, NY 10014

18. Sushi Yasuda

For indoor dining, the omakase menu isn’t available to preview online. The restaurant also offers affordable takeout options: There is an 18 piece omakase for $175 or a 12 piece for $110 – a steal if you consider that the fish is flown in from Japan. If you’re really on a budget and looking to sample, try takeout.

Price: $150 – $250

Where: 204 E 43rd St, New York, NY 10017

19. The Modern

If you’re willing to drink in moderation and forgo the optional white truffles from Alba, you can do lunch at The Modern for under $200. Chef Thomas Allan’s dinner menu is an upgraded version of the standard tasting menu with a few surprises for an extra $100. But it’s well worth the splurge: The restaurant is located in the Museum of Modern Art, with views of the museum’s gardens. Tasting menu options for lunch include crispy sea bass and roasted scallops.

Price: $150 – $250

Where: 9 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019

20. Oiji Mi

Photo: Christian Harder

Oiji Mi’s has a five-course prix-fixe menu of contemporary Korean fare with a Japanese influence. Diners have three options for each course. Pork, sea urchin, and squid are all featured ingredients. Bingsu is one of the dessert options.

Price: $145

Where: 17 W 19th St, New York, NY 10011

21. Gabriel Kreuther

This is the Strasbourg-native chef’s namesake upscale French restaurant across from Bryant Park. It’s on the first floor of the Grace Building, where 42 crystal storks hang from the curved, platinum-colored ceiling, representing the street. They point toward Alsace, where Kreuther is from. The prix fixe menu is $155 for three courses and $185 for four, and includes dishes like tuna tartare and yellowtail crudo.

Price: $155 – $255

Where: 41 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036

22. Le Pavillion

Le Pavillion is Daniel Boulud’s restaurant at One Vanderbilt. The three-course tasting menu is  seafood and vegetable focused, so expect cuttlefish, oysters, and tuna. There’s no additional cost for the views of Midtown.

Price: $135

Where: One Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017

23. One White Street

Located around the corner from Ghostbusters Headquarters, this Tribeca restaurant has downstairs and upstairs menus. For the $168 tasting menu, you need to make a reservation for the latter. Wine pairing will set you back an additional $96. Simple, but satisfying, dishes like stuffed chicken and brussel sprouts are featured on this menu. Downstairs, the menu la carte.

Price: $168

Where: 1 White Street, New York, NY 10013

24. Aquavit

Aquavit is unique among NYC Michelin-starred restaurants for a couple of reasons. First, the focus is on Scandinavian fare in a Nordic-inspired setting. Those flavors inspire dishes that feature cod, fennel, and fluke. It’s also located above 50th street. The standard tasting menu is $175. Add a Ben Franklin for the chef’s tasting menu.

Price: $175

Where: 65 E 55th St, New York, NY 10022

25. Caviar Russe

One may not expect to see a restaurant bearing the name Caviar on a most affordable list. But Caviar Russe’s Midtown location offers a three-course tasting menu for $175. The menu features all the greatest hits of upscale New York City dining: lobster, king crab, oysters, tuna – plus caviar, of course.  The six and nine-course tasting menu options, however, are on par with overseas airfare prices.

Price: $175

Where: 538 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10022

26. Hirohisa

Echizen-born chef Hirohisa Hayashi is both a chef and certified sake sommelier. His restaurant united the concepts of kappo (which refers to a casual setting in which chef and diner are in close proximity) and kaiseki cuisine. The omakase menu is $180, with the optional sake pairing for an additional $95. In addition to sashimi, which depends on what is available that day, you’ll also enjoy a cauliflower puree, oyster, and crab gravy among other small bites. You can easily spend double that for lunch as the menu is a la carte.

Price: $180

Where: 73 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012

27. Torien

Torien is the sister restaurant to Tokyo’s Torishiki. It’s located just a couple blocks from 2nd Avenue, where Joey Ramone sang about eating chicken vindaloo. At Torien, you’ll be eating several different parts of the chicken during the 13-course tasting, which is priced at $180.

Price: $180

Where: 292 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10012

28. Le Jardinier New York

Photo:

French for “gardener,” Le Jardinier‘s seasonal expression menu is $185 with an optional $95 wine pairing. The standard lunch and dinner menus are a la carte and will cost more than $185 for an appetizer, entree, and dessert. The dinner menu showcases fresh, vibrant vegetables and plants, from Asian pear to heirloom beets.

Price: $185

Where: 610 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022

29. Frevo

As long as you can avoid the tempting truffle supplements, Frevo’s tasting menu comes in at $186, with optional wine pairings ranging from $11 – $250. The restaurant also features an adjoining art gallery, where works are showcased and cna be viewed by the public for a few hours everyday, or by appointment. The tasting menu itself claims to focus on simplicity, showcasing ingredients like a sage butternut squash and wagyu accompanied by algae. The team is unable to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, seafood-free, fish-free, or lactose-free diets.

Price: $186

Where: 48 W 8th St, New York, NY 10011

30. The River Cafe

The River Cafe is located a stone’s throw from the most iconic pizza street in New York City. And anyone who has taken the NYC Ferry to DUMBO has passed by this curious spot with arguably the best ground-level view in Brooklyn. The fixed price menu is $190. Jackets are required. Seafood is the star here, and the menu features tempting bites like wild shrimp, and sea scallop ceviche.

Price: $190

Where: 1 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

31. Clover Hill

Picturesque Brooklyn Heights is not known for affordable dining options, but Michelin-starred Clover Hill has a $195 tasting menu. While the menu is seasonal and very short, you can expect high-end ingredients like truffles, caviar, and smoked sturgeon.

Price: $195

Where: 20 Columbia Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11201

32. Kanoyama

Located in the trendy East Village, Kanoyama has an omakase tasting menu for $195. The fish options change daily depending on what’s available from the fish market. Reservations are required.

Price: $195

Where: 175 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003

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Immerse Yourself in Nature at This New Luxe Wellness Resort in Sicily, Italy

With its innovative design and beautiful natural surroundings, Italy’s newest wellness resort, ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia, is the perfect place to indulge in a rejuvenating vacation. With cutting-edge architecture and eco-friendly practices, the resort blends into the stunning Sicilian coastline. The resort’s design and construction was a passion project of the Sanoner family which, along with their longstanding partner architect Hugo Demetz, created one of the most unique wellness destinations in Europe.

The resort is less than a quarter-mile from a private beach and sits atop grounds peppered with wildflowers overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and one of Italy’s most precious nature reserves — Torre Salina. The nature theme flows throughout the entire property, creating an instant sense of calm. Add on the ADLER group’s dedication to providing guests with five-star spa treatments, wellness facilities, and outstanding cuisine, and it’s impossible to leave not feeling rejuvenated.

How to get to ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia

Photo: ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia

The closest airport to ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia is Palermo, Italy, on the northern tip of the island of Sicily. It’s about an hour from the resort by car and guests can organize a transfer through the resort. The journey, through the countryside of vineyards, ancient temples, and pretty villages is a wonderful way to introduce yourself to the history and natural beauty of Sicily. If you’d rather travel via rail, you can opt for a train to Cefalù. From there it’s a short seven miles by car to get to the resort.

When you settle at ADLER, you might not want to leave. But if you do, there’s a huge amount of nearby attractions and daily excursions bookable through the resort. In keeping with ADLER’s dedication to being as sustainable as possible and protecting the local ecosystem, electric cars and bikes are available for guest use.

About ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton

I visited in November, the grandmother’s summer in Europe. It’s one of my favorite times of year to be on the continent. It’s still warm enough to sit outdoors in the fall sunshine in a t-shirt and only a light cardigan in the evening, and it avoids the summer crowds.

On arrival, I was struck by how understated the resort is. Vivid yellow, orange, and lilac wildflowers of lavender, fennel, and violets carpet the grounds, and a maze of stone pathways connect the pools, spa, eateries, reception area, and suites. The lavish and sprawling property was built with natural materials, and the liberal use of glass creates a seamless combination of sleek modern buildings that fit into the Sicilian coast. And that’s exactly what the Sanoner family had in mind.

“Everything we do is informed by a non-negotiable principle: our resort has to blend in with the landscape without altering its natural balance and beauty. Bio-architecture was the only way forward. We opted for a dispersive layout of single-story buildings alternating with botanical oases,” shares the family.

Unlike many large-scale wellness resorts, ADLER’s commitment to the environment means the business has, in my opinion, enhanced the wild cliffside area. The resort’s 90 suites are low in structure and sit above lawns with outstanding panoramic views.

Photo: ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia/Alex Filz

Huge, heavy sliding doors open out onto private terraces where guests can enjoy the view from plush day beds. The warmth of the Sicilian countryside is mirrored in the stylish decor of the open-planned suites. Brunt orange, mustard, and a juxtaposition between cedar wood panels, velvet, and rougher natural textiles are luxuriously understated. A king-sized bed sits in the center of the room and looks out onto the manicured gardens and the ocean beyond. Drifting off to a chorus of cicadas and waking to a warm fragrant Sicilian breeze is one of my most cherished memories of the property.

Wellness facilities at the resortSpa

Photo: ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia/Alex Filz

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton

It might not come as a surprise that the spa is the heart of the resort. Sami Aglietti, general manager of ADLER Sicilia, expressed that having five-star facilities is one of the core principles of the hotel group.

The subterranean complex of 13 treatment rooms is built into the cliffside and all have sweeping views of the coastline. The journey down the wooden stairs is an experience in itself as guests are welcomed by the scent of pine, citrus, and lavender, paired with calming music, and soothing, natural decor.

The team of professionals at ADLER set the bar incredibly high, making this currently one of the best spa resorts in Europe. And although the group is famed for hiring local staff members to support the regional economy, the level of expertise is world-class. I can attest that I had one of the best massages of my life.

There’s a huge variety of treatments to choose from. In fact, the more-than-25-page spa menu is the most extensive I’ve come across at a resort. You can select individual therapies ranging from relaxing massages to facials, Ayurvedic offerings, body treatments, and hydrotherapy, or opt for a package. I indulged in the calming 50-minute “Essence of Sicily” massage with Sicilian almond oil, after which it took me an entire afternoon of lounging on my day bed to come back to my senses.

Saunas

Photo: ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia/Alex Filz

There are three Swedish saunas, all of which vary in temperature and humidity levels. The daily Aufguss (sauna ritual) is a highlight. A timetable for the experience is available outside the sauna tower, and the performance is not only relaxing and detoxing, but also highly entertaining.

Pools

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton

Photo: ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia/Alex Filz

Photo: ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia/Alex Filz

Water is another celebrated element. There are three pools, all of which offer very different experiences and healing benefits.

The Thalasso infinity pool is above the spa and is a must-do experience, especially at sunset when the pool water seems to drift into the crimson sky. The heated saltwater pool is a respite from muscle and joint aches and pains.

The larger of the three pools is split into three sections. Guests can enter the saltwater pool, housed within a dark, wooden structure, from a stunning relaxation room. Swim-up glass doors open automatically to the outside pool, which is warm and surrounded by palm trees. The final section of the pool is what ADLER call the “sweet water pool,” and is slightly colder than the saltwater pool.

The third pool is outside the fitness center and is a cold water lap pool. It’s ideal for those who want to do some cardio after a gym session.

Gym and fitness facilities

Photo: ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia/Alex Filz

Photo: ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia/Alex Filz

You might well never want to leave the resort, but if you would like to explore the region and enjoy the outdoors, there’s a huge range of activities on offer. From nature hikes and yoga on the beach to bike tours, guests can select excursions from the reception area’s large blackboard detailing the daily offerings.

The state-of-the-art gym has everything you need for a personal workout. There are cardio machines, slam balls, battle ropes, free weights, weight machines, you name it. The cardio machines have a superb view down the coast, making a morning run an absolute pleasure. Adjacent to the gym is a yoga and pilates studio with group exercise classes ranging, including full-body weight programs and various styles and levels of yoga. Classes run throughout the day and the packed schedule is posted at reception and inside the gym door.

Beach

Photo: ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia

Something I didn’t expect on arrival at ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia was the private beach. You can reach the beach on foot in 10 or 15 minutes, depending on how relaxed your pace is. The walk is a leisurely downhill stroll, and at the shoreline, you’ll be treated to a self-serve soft drinks bar, a beach towel, and a sun lounger. There’s a lifeguard on duty during the day, and staff on-site to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible. On the way back up the hill, you can hop on one of the electric buggies to the resort if you’d prefer to not break a sweat. Believe me, the resort has thought of everything.

Restaurants and dining options

Photo: ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia/Alex Filz

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton

Photo: ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia/Alex Filz

Photo: ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia/Alex Filz

Photo: ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia

It would be remiss for a resort in one of the most fertile volcanic regions on the planet not to take advantage of local produce, and ADLER did not disappoint. Herb and vegetable gardens provide a daily harvest and regional specialties pepper the well-thought-out menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Giuseppe Schimmenti, head chef at ADLER Sicilia, is originally from Sicily and shared that he was overjoyed to come back to the region and celebrate the outstanding local ingredients.

“ADLER’s philosophy of sourcing regional produce is a perfect match for me,” shares Schimmernti. “This is my home, so I know these products and the people who work hard to cultivate the land.”

There are two restaurants; an outdoor Osteria for lunch and an extravagant two-storied bar and eatery.

The Osteria is on a decked area under a large umbrella and offers views of the gardens and coastline. The daily buffet-style lunch plates an array of fresh salads, local seafood (including Sicilian red prawns), pizzas, pasta, fresh local cheeses, and cured meats.

When the sun goes down, guests can feast in the beautifully lit, colossal, and somehow still-chic restaurant. The nightly buffet of Sicilian appetizers changes daily, after which guests can order from an a la carte menu. It’s here, on the restaurant floor, where the professionalism and level of knowledge of the staff truly stands out. Each ingredient has a story and every plate can be paired with a local wine. It’s a testament to ADLER’s dedication to hiring from nearby villages and towns and training its team to the highest of standards.

Attractions near ADLER Spa Resort SiciliaSiculiana

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton

One of the many excursions offered is a trip to the historic town of Siculiana. The town has grown into an important cultural and artistic hub in Sicily, with local artists regularly creating masterpieces adorning city walls and public spaces. Many of these masterpieces draw inspiration from Sicilian traditions and culture, showcasing the history and beauty of the area through art. A tour here will take you through centuries-old streets, passing baroque and Renaissance monuments and picturesque Sicilian gardens.

The Valley of the Temples

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton

Another must-see historical landmark is the UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Valley of the Temples, or Valle dei Templi in Italian. It’s a short 40-minute drive from the resort and is one of the most impressive temples in the world.

The Valley is home to seven monumental Greek temples built between 510 and 430 BCE as part of a large-scale urban planning project by the local rulers of Akragas (Agrigento). All seven temples are dedicated to different gods, including Zeus, Apollo, Persephone, Demeter, Hera Lacinia, and Athena.

Today, the Valley remains an important archaeological site and the ancient remains are very well-preserved. We visited at night to experience the magnificent valley at sunset and adorned in light as the sun fell behind the towering stone structures.

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This Tiny Peephole May Just Have the Best View in Rome

In Rome, Italy, magnificent views are a dime a dozen. You can’t swing a dead cat without hitting a beautifully preserved ruin, a sumptuous church, or a stunning fountain, and therefore, every street corner, every bridge, and every set of stairs provides opportunities for stunning photographs. But there’s one place in the Eternal City that will make your vacation shots stand out from the lot: the Aventine keyhole.

@matadornetwork @Tehi Wicks found this hidden gem in Rome If you look through this keyhole you can see St. Peter’s Basilica perfectly framed by beautiful green hedges #romethingstodo #StPetersBasilica #italytravel #tiktoktravel ♬ original sound – Matador Network

The Aventine keyhole is located on the door of the historic Grand Priory of the Knights of Malta, now home to the Maltese embassy in Italy. The Grand Priory of the Knights of Malta (Villa del Priorato di Malta in Italian) is on the Aventine Hill, hence the name of the peephole.

The Aventine Hill is, as its name indicates, not flat, so you may have to break a sweat to make it to the peephole, but you won’t regret it.

The Aventine keyhole grants a captivating view of the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican framed perfectly by a long tree tunnel. But beyond its view of the most famous basilica in the world, the appeal of this peephole is that it allows curious travelers to see three countries at once: Italy, Malta, and the Vatican.

The Aventine keyphole used to be a secret, but it has become a popular tourist attraction (as the damage on the wooden door suggests) and you might even have to queue to be able to take a peek. Time your visit well, early evenings or very early mornings are best for thin crowds.

While it’s all good and well to see St. Peter’s Basilica from a distance, you can also visit it for free. Make your way to Vatican City and queue to admire this architectural wonder from the inside. You’ll go through a security checkpoint where your bags will be scanned and where authorities will make sure that your attire is appropriate enough to visit the most famous church in the world. While the line may be impressive, it moves fast and you can go usually get in in just 30 minutes. And it’s well worth the wait.

Address of the Aventine keyhole: Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, 400153 Roma RM, Italy

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This Mexico Hotel Has Hands-Down the Coolest Outdoor Bed in the World

The town of Tulum, on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, is divided more or less into two sections: Tulum Town and Tulum Beach. The former is where most locals live, while the latter is a strip of luxury resorts, beach clubs, restaurants, and shops along a strip bordering the Gulf of Mexico to one side and dense jungle on the other.

We hope you love the spaces and stays 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.

It’s in Tulum Beach that you’ll find La Valise Tulum, a luxury hotel that exemplifies what the Tulum wellness scene is known for: natural materials, organic food and drink, wellness experiences like beachfront yoga, and a blending of indoor and outdoor spaces to connect travelers with nature. And perhaps no aspect of La Valise Tulum does that better than the resort’s Master Suite.

@visit Picture yourself waking up here: a private oasis between the jungle and sea of Tulum, Mexico. It’s always okay to stay in bed a little longer when it looks like this! Tag someone you would visit with! La Valise #Mexico ♬ original sound – Visit

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With tall ceilings, eco-chic furnishings, and an oversized soaking bathtub for two, it’s easy to take a look at the room and instantly hit the “book” button — it’s clear it’s one of the best hotels in Tulum. But the real pièce de résistance is the plush, king-size bed that anchors the room. The bed is mounted to a track, allowing it to roll through the room’s massive wall of doors and be fully outside on the covered, ocean-view deck. It allows guests to sleep outside, falling asleep to the sound of waves. It’s about as romantic as it gets.

Tulum Beach is approximately 90 minutes south of Cancun and offers guests access to jungle adventures. Popular activities in the area include touring Mayan ruins like Chichén Itzá, though there’s an impressive Mayan ruin at the Tulum Archaeological Zone at the north end of the beach. Aside from beach clubs, snorkeling, paddling, and other beach-based activities, Tulum is also known for its many cenotes: jungle sinkholes opened to the sky where guests can swim, snorkel, freedive, or even scuba dive. Some cenotes are dotted with underwater caves, while others are more open, with clear water, interesting rock formations, and even small fish.

Photo: Jess Kraft/Shutterstock

The adults-only La Valise Tulum is at the southern end of Tulum Beach, so it can be a little trafficky driving there on your own from further north. Fortunately, guests don’t need to drive at all as the hotel can arrange everything from five-day cultural itineraries (with visits to ruins and art classes) to spirit-focused escapes with sound healing, snorkeling, and a traditional cacao ceremony. Guests can also arrange visits to Vesica, an extremely high-end beach club built around a beautiful cenote with a menu of food and experiences based on health and wellness.

Rates for the Master Suite start around $550 a night in the off-season. Fortunately, La Valise Tulum offers a range of other lovely rooms, including second-floor options with woven hammocks or ground-floor bungalows with private plunge pools.

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How To Swim With Leopard Sharks in La Jolla, California

Swimming with sharks is one of those experiences that people who thrive on adventure and risk taking add to their bucket list. But you don’t need to be an adrenaline junky to get face to face with some of the most interesting wild animals on our planet. You just need to head to La Jolla, California. This coastal city provides a perfect opportunity to observe these majestic creatures up close, while also learning about their behavior and habitat. Leopard sharks are harmless to humans, making an excursion to the turquoise waters where they peacefully swim, a safe and unforgettable  way to interact with nature. Here’s what you need to know before taking the plunge.

@visit Leopard sharks in La Jolla, California. Don't worry, they're harmless to humans @trystan_and_zora #sharktok #sharkweek #leopardsharks #lajolla #socallife ♬ Sweet Disposition FeelingBlew – Feelingblew

The best time of year to swim with leopard sharks in La Jolla, California

While it’s possible to spot leopard sharks in La Jolla all year around, the best time of year to swim with leopard sharks in La Jolla is from June through October, when sharks seek shallow waters during mating season. Peak months are August and September, and around then the water temperature will be comfortable for humans, too.

A wetsuit can help keep you warm and protect you from any potential cuts or scrapes while snorkeling or diving. Make sure your wetsuit fits snugly so it doesn’t interfere with your movement or visibility under the water. It’s also a good idea to wear protective shoes like aqua socks or neoprene booties so you don’t injure yourself on any sharp rocks or coral reefs while swimming near shore.

Where can you find leopard sharks

During the summer months, leopard sharks tend to congregate near La Jolla Shores beach, making them easier to spot. Beach goers can also take part in surfing, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and kayaking at this beach. The sharks gather in shallow waters at low tide, especially when the water is less crowded, which is the best place to swim with leopard sharks.

Tour companies, like La Jolla Kayak, offer guided tours to areas of the beach where leopard sharks congregate. Even kids as young as six (as long as they can swim are welcome on these excursions. Even though leopard sharks are not known to attack humans, tour guides can also recommend safety tips for interacting with them – which includes respectfully observing them from a distance.

If you’re an experienced swimmer (and brave) who admires the beauty and grace of sharks, a trip to San Diego in the summer or early fall is not complete without a swim with leopard sharks. If you’re looking for a safe adventure that can include the whole family in one of the most stunning locations in the world, you found it.

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Arizona’s 80-Foot Rock Slide Is Basically a Natural Waterpark

Roughly six miles north of Sedona, Arizona, is Slide Rock State Park, one of the state’s most beloved outdoor attractions. From its stunning red rock formations to its natural water slides, the park is a popular outdoor summer destination for visitors who want to escape the heat of Arizona’s cities.

Slide Rock State Park is named for the natural waterslide formed by the slippery rocks in the park’s Oak Creek Canyon. The slide pours over 80 feet of slippery red sandstone into a shallow pool ideal for swimmers of all ages. The natural slide was formed by eons of water flowing over the canyon rocks, eventually eroding any sharp points and creating a naturally smooth slide.

@matadornetwork #SlideRockStatePark is one of Arizona’s best swimming spots. The natural water slide is about 80 feet long. It’s located just 15 minutes from Sedona or 40 minutes from Flagstaff ️ #naturalwaterslide #sliderock #traveltiktok #arizonalife ♬ Home – Speed songs

It’s not very wide — roughly about four feet across — but the algae on the rocks is slippery enough that it’ll keep you moving in the correct direction. You won’t get stuck between rocks, though it’s not such a powerful stream that you’ll feel out of control. And the ride only takes a few seconds.

The pool at the bottom is also a fabulous place to hang out in the summer, and it’s large enough for jumping and wading even if you don’t feel up for the slide. In the summer, it’s a popular place to hang out and picnic. Just be sure to follow Leave No Trace rules, and don’t bring any glass bottles.

From the main Slide Rock State Park parking lot, it’s only a .3-mile walk to reach the waterslide. The section where the waterslide is is the only section of the river open to guests, and it may be helpful to wear some kind of water sandal or even a quick-drying hiking shoe to protect your feel while walking around. Though the slide is pretty smooth, the rocks nearby can be slippery, so be careful when walking around and use your hands to steady yourself when climbing through the water. It can also be quite cold (definitely don’t confuse this with a hot spring) and use caution as there are no lifeguards on duty, especially if you’re with children.

Slide Rock State Park is open most days from 8 AM to 6 PM, and admission is $20 per car.

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