Matador Network's Blog, page 377
November 24, 2022
These Power Banks Keep Your Gadgets Charged for Days While Traveling
Among the more frustrating aspects of travel is keeping your electronic devices charged while on the go. Sure, there are those cheap portable battery banks that can keep a phone alive during a long-haul flight or an overnight camping trip, but when you’re away from electricity for days at a time, most aren’t reliable even for keeping a smartphone alive. Let alone a laptop, satellite phone, and GPS device. Enter Goal Zero’s new Sherpa 100 power banks. Improved from earlier models, and built with enough power storage to keep your devices charged for multiple days, you don’t need to be stressed about remaining in contact.
Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD and AD specs
Specs of the Sherpa 100PD include 2 USB-A inputs. Photo courtesy of Goal Zero
Photo courtesy of Goal Zero
Photo courtesy of Goal Zero
Both the Sherpa 100PD and the Sherpa 100AC come with a 94.72wh battery. The smaller and more affordable of the two is the Sherpa 100PD, priced at $199.95. The primary charge port here is a USB-C PD port, capable of 100W of power distribution for charging and 60W intake on the recharge of the device. You’ll also find two USB-A ports an 8mm solar input, in case you have portable solar panels. Its power storage is generally enough for several phone charges or a couple of uptakes from near-empty to fully charged on a laptop (or tablet) and phone. The Sherpa 100PD also allows for wireless charging at 15W, and all you have to do is place your phone on top of the power bank.
The Sherpa 100PD weighs just over one pound, is 7.69 x 3.81 inches in diameter, and 1.02 inches thick. That makes it slightly larger than a smartphone but still able to fit into most backpack sleeves or packing cubes.
The Sherpa 100AC, retailing at $299.95, measures 7.69 x 5.51 x 1.02 inches and weighs two pounds. It’s quite a bit larger, but with that added heft you get a 110V AC outlet in case your devices can’t charge with the smaller inputs. You can also charge it from a vehicle’s 12V outlet. On both devices, input power comes from the USB-C port. A full charge takes just over two hours in most cases.
To help you fully grasp the power of these devices. I’m going to paint a scenario.
You’re on a four-night backpacking trip in the Rockies. In your pack, along with the necessities, is a Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD, a smartphone, a satellite GPS device, and a tablet. That rainstorm hits the second night and carries through noon the following day, leaving you plenty of tent time. The batteries on the tablet and phone are toast by the time you emerge, and there are still over 48 hours left in the trip. You’ve already charged the phone once, on night one.
In order to optimize the juice left in your Sherpa 100PD, the device allows you to manually control the amount of power delivered while charging, rather than go full-throttle for the fastest charge possible. This means you can charge both devices overnight on the third night. It delivers just enough power to make them usable throughout the next day while preserving enough in case of an emergency.
The larger Goal Zero Sherpa 100AC adds more options but is larger. Photo courtesy of Goal Zero
Photo courtesy of Goal Zero
Charging your phone wirelessly is simple with the Sherpa 100AC. Photo courtesy of Goal Zero
The display on the Sherpa 100PD and Sherpa 100ACThe Sherpa 100’s best feature, on both devices, is its display. On it are the basics — input and output wattage, battery life, a button to turn on wireless charging, and small bulbs illuminating active ports. You can see how many hours of charging at the current rate the bank can handle before power runs out, making it easy to budget for longer trips. Finally, each port is clearly labeled both by its input ability and wattage.
Overall, both devices are easy to learn and easy to use. The Sherpa 100AC is large and heavy, thus not as ideal for foot-powered backcountry excursions as its smaller cousin. Still, if you have room in a checked bag, there isn’t a more versatile or reliable portable power bank on the market. The Sherpa 100PD has become my go-to for most occasions – including both outdoors expeditions and air travel. 
November 23, 2022
8 Nashville Bars Where You Can See the Next Big Country Star
Nashville is called Music City because this city’s musical legacy stretches back over a hundred years and has hosted all types of music, from gospel to jazz to, of course, country. And the best Nashville bars all honor that legacy.
Nashville’s music history starts in earnest with the Fisk Jubilee Singers, a touring group created in 1871 to generate financial support for Fisk University, an educational institution founded for formerly enslaved people right after the Civil War. The group performed for Queen Victoria who observed that they must hail from a “city of music,” bestowing Nashville with its now famous nickname.
Half a century later Nashville’s WSM radio station founded the Grand Ole Opry, the famous radio-stage show responsible for launching the careers of country’s biggest names (Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Hank Williams, to name a few) and cementing the nickname “Music City” into the cultural vernacular. Spurred by the Opry’s success, Broadway bars and venues boomed with country music; at the same time, nearby Jefferson Street thrummed with the city’s rhythm and blues scene, further establishing Nashville as one of the South’s great music hubs.
Music continues to function as a huge part of Nashville’s culture and economy – several large record labels have major offices here (like Sony, Capitol Records, and Big Machine), and dozens of smaller outfits churn out tunes from local and indie artists. This means that country music hopefuls frequently hit local stages in hopes of landing on the radars of industry tastemakers, and both visitors and residents have a good chance of spotting country music’s next big talent.
Nashville’s bar scene plays an essential role in the local music industry, hosting songwriter nights, open mics, intimate concerts, and more. Today, Nashville is even a legendary bachelorette destination and the Nashville brewery scene is growing, too. Here’s a list of the best Nashville bars dedicated to rising country, roots, and Americana artists – get ready to say “I saw them before they were famous.”
The best Nashville bars to see a country music concert1. The Bluebird CafeView this post on InstagramA post shared by The Bluebird Cafe (@bluebirdcafetn)
Nashville’s original singer-songwriter showcase takes place in one of the best Nashville bars — this historic haunt located in a strip mall located on Hillsboro Pike. But don’t let its unassuming facade fool you – huge names like Garth Brooks, Keith Urban, and Taylor Swift got their starts here, and the stage continues to be one of the most coveted spots in the country music industry. Intimate and electric, The Bluebird and its talent deliver an essential rite of passage for any music-loving Nashvillian.
Where: 4104 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville, TN 37215
2. The Station InnNestled among the new glitz of the booming east Nashville neighborhood known as the Gulch, this humble bar has been home to the best bluegrass and roots acts in town since it moved to that location in 1978. The squat stone building has hosted everyone from Bill Monroe (the “Father of Bluegrass Music”) to Alison Krauss before she found stardom, and it’s a must-visit for anyone wanting a taste (or sound) of authentic Nashville music history.
Where: 402 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
3. Alley TapsView this post on InstagramA post shared by Alley Taps (@alleytapsnashville)
Tucked away from the hubbub of Broadway on the less-trafficked side of Printer’s Alley, Alley Taps is a cozy basement-style bar that prioritizes showcasing rising talent in the city. The bar proudly calls itself the “Home of the Future of Country Music” and it hosts acts every night of the week. Sip a whiskey at the stately wrap-around bar and let yourself be serenaded by some of Nashville’s most talented musicians.
Where: 162 Printers Alley, Nashville, TN 37201
4. The 5 SpotPerhaps Music City’s most eclectic bar and music venue, The 5 Spot in East Nashville is a local favorite – check out soul, funk, rock, and Americana acts on its signature red-curtain stage, all while sipping a cold beer. After the show, enjoy surprisingly satisfying bar food from the food truck out back. The 5 Spot thrives on audience engagement, so don’t be afraid to cut a rug on the small dance floor in front of the stage.
Where: 1006 Forrest Ave, Nashville, TN 37206
5. The Listening Room CafeView this post on InstagramA post shared by The Listening Room Cafe (@listeningroomcafe)
Originally founded in 2006 in nearby Franklin, the Listening Room Cafe has been a mainstay in the Nashville singer-songwriter circuit for some time. Today it’s housed in a spacious bar and restaurant in the downtown area known as SoBro and it continues to showcase original music every night of the week. Each night features two live shows; weekdays hone in on acoustic sets while weekends bring in larger bands.
Where: 618 4th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37210
6. Whiskey Jam at Winners Bar & GrillWhiskey Jam is a free music series that takes place every Monday and Thursday at Midtown’s Winners Bar & Grill. The big labels on historic Music Row use this series as a testing ground for their newest acts, and sometimes country A-listers make surprise appearances to try out their latest work on a local crowd. Whiskey Jam also hosts an outdoor concert series at the adjacent Loser’s Bar – check out the event calendar to find out when these large-scale events are happening.
Where: 1913 Division St, Nashville, TN 37203
7. American Legion Post 82Yes, this really is an American Legion post, and yes, the music really is worth a visit – the small bar keeps the drinks flowing while local acts hit the stage for their fellow neighborhood people with an affinity for boot scootin’. Show up on Tuesdays for Honky Tonk nights (and Texas Two Step classes), Wednesdays for bluegrass, Thursdays for songwriter nights, and Fridays for karaoke.
Where: 3204 Gallatin Pike, Nashville, TN 37216
8. Dee’s Country Cocktail LoungeView this post on InstagramA post shared by Dee's Country Cocktail Lounge (@deeslounge615)
Located just north of Nashville proper in the suburb-town of Madison, Dee’s is a relative newcomer with an old soul. The 70s-inspired bar welcomes skilled local and international acts . Dig into a Frito pie and enjoy the immaculate vibes – think dive bar with a little bit of sparkle.
Where: 102 E Palestine Ave, Madison, TN 37115
This Traditional Japanese Ryokan Offers A Luxurious Experience, No Tech Required
Japan sits at the crossroads of ancient tradition and cutting-edge technology. Its high-octane futuristic cities boast fully-staffed robot hotels, 24-hour conveniences, and above all else, efficiency. But technology has got us all wound up. More and more often, humans are turning to nature for some relief from this frenetic world, and as with everything else, Japan has a solution – traditional ryokans. These ancient inns previously catered to samurai and wealthy traders on the backroads of rural Japan. Today, Japanese visitors and tourists seek out the wooden historical refuges to disconnect, decompress, and experience omotonashi — wholehearted luxurious hospitality.
Ryokans are found throughout the country, even among the busy streets of Tokyo, and range in styles from bare-bones traditional to high-end modern hotels. But the most highly sought-after stays are nestled in the countryside and pay homage to their historical roots. They feature natural hot springs called onsens and serve Kaiseki-style meals to their guests. Kaiseki is trademarked by many small, intricately prepared, and delicately plated dishes using the finest seasonal and foraged foods from the region and the day. Only the choicest pieces make it to the table, and it’s typically an elaborate multi-course meal. This is the pinnacle of fine dining in Japan. While many travelers enjoy a Kaiseki meal in Kyoto, a ryokan is the most traditional setting for this culinary experience.
We hope you love the Fukuzumiro ryokan! 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.
Fukuzumiro: The Best Traditional Ryokan Stay in JapanPhoto: Booking.com
Fukuzimiro, a stunning, wooden traditional inn just off the winding scenic pass to Mount Fuji, is more than 130 years old and is one of the best traditional ryokans offering these all-inclusive amenities to travelers.
The massive but minimalist property hosts guests in its many tatami mat-covered rooms offering soaks in five separate, naturally fed onsen baths and fully catered Kaiseki-style private dining experiences. While many ryokans have moved toward more modern amenities, Fukuzimiro allows you to slip into a simpler time, sticking to low-tech rooms with roll-out futon-style bedding with the surrounding nature on full display. Panoramic windows reveal the spring blossoms, snowy hills, or fall colors. The sounds of the nearby road are drowned out by the gushing waterfall outside and trickling indoor water features bubbling with colorful koi. Even a single-night visit to the property will leave you feeling refreshed and more connected to traditional Japanese culture.
What to Expect During Your Stay at Fukuzumiro Ryokan
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Just a few hours’ journey from Tokyo via bullet train and bus, Fukuzimiro sits riverside in the small resort town of Hakone. Upon arrival, you will be briefed on the etiquette of a traditional ryokan stay. You’ll trade your shoes for slippers to be worn on the old creaky wooden floors, two-toed socks for the woven tatami mats, and your clothes for striped cotton Yukata robes. You’ll be assigned a host to take care of your every need. They will shuttle your luggage to your room and show you around the property before serving a pot of green tea and a snack of gooey mochi before leaving you to relax.
Three of the five natural onsens are private, meaning you’ll sign up for a specific time slot to enjoy the healing waters. In these, you can soak with your partner or your whole family if you so choose. The other two onsens are public, which means you can enjoy them at any time, but each is gender separated with designated hours for men and for women. All five are fed by the natural hot springs of Hakone, but each is different in ambiance. Several are circular, wooden tubs with scenic outdoor views, while others have natural rock perches with hot indoor waterfalls. Onsens in Japan are fully nude, with no exceptions, and traditionally it is forbidden to have tattoos to use them. Tattoos in Japan are still very taboo as they are still strongly associated with Yakuza gang symbols. This stigma is slowly fading with the younger generation, but many onsens still conform to tradition. Fortunately, Fukuzimiro is one of the only traditional-style ryokans to allow guests with tattoos to soak freely.
Before each soak, it’s vitally important that you thoroughly wash before entering the bath with heavy scrubbing, as explained by your host, so as not to contaminate the crystal-clear fresh water.
Dining at Fukuzimiro ryokan
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Sometime between 6 and 7 PM, you’ll be served your Kaiseki dinner. Exceptionally unique Japanese food is one of the main benefits of staying at Fukuzimiro. Great Kaiseki meals vary seasonally, regionally, and daily. While they can be tailored to your specific dietary requirements, you’ll have the best dining experience if you come prepared with an adventurous stomach. Plate after exquisite plate will be served in your room from a small dining table, where you’ll sit on traditional floor seating until you’re well beyond full. One of the trademarks of Kaiseki is that nothing ever tastes as you think it might. It’s the exploration of textures and tastes that make this such an incredible dining event. You can usually expect some bluefin tuna sashimi, Kamaboko — a fish paste cake, and handmade tofu. All washed down with housemade Umeshu plum wine and locally sourced sake from Hakone, of course.
Your evening at the Fukuzumiro ryokan will be spent soaking and relaxing, relishing in nature and disconnected from the busy outside world. Your host will prepare your room for sleep following dinner by rolling out the thick futon bedding onto the floor, and again before breakfast, fold it all away. Kaiseki-style breakfast can be a fishy affair, difficult for those with a more western palate, but adventurous eaters will be delighted by the diversity in dishes.
To get the most from your ryokan stay, it’s recommended that you visit for at least two or three nights so that you can leisurely soak in each onsen and enjoy the serene surroundings without hurry. Staying in a traditional Japanese inn like Fukuzimiro is a luxury experience worth adding to any Japanese itinerary. It’s also a great way to break up the monotony of busy city-hopping that most travelers to the country fall into.
More like thisEpic StaysStaying at a Ryokan Is a Must in Japan. Here’s What To Expect.Where To Stay, Eat, and Play in San Francisco
For a major metropolis, San Francisco is pretty small. It spans just 47 square miles of land and has fewer than a million residents, yet it remains one of America’s most influential cities. A magnet for gold miners, a haven for hippies, a hub for tech’s elite, the City by the Bay has long drawn outsiders to its waterfront perch.
Most visitors quickly realize that, despite its size, San Francisco is dense with art, culture, open spaces, and cuisine, including some of the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurants in California. So while getting around is easy enough to manage, there’s still a lot to navigate.
Fear not, first-timers — here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in San Francisco if you’re still getting to know the city.
Top attractions in San FranciscoLandmark neighborhoods in San FranciscoThe best museums in San FranciscoThe best parks in San FranciscoThe best free things to do in San FranciscoThe best things to do with kids in San FranciscoThe best things to do at night in San FranciscoEssential restaurants in San FranciscoEssential bars in San FranciscoWhere to stay in San FranciscoTop attractions in San FranciscoAlcatraz
Photo: MintImages/Shutterstock
Of all the islands in the Bay Area, Alcatraz is by far the most famous. The old prison where criminals like Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly were once incarcerated is a tourist attraction that sees 1.5 million visitors every year. Visits start with a 15-minute ferry ride from Pier 33 on The Embarcadero. In addition to self-guided audio tours, National Park Service rangers lead tours daily, and various sightseeing agencies organize special excursions such as night tours.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Photo: Daily Travel Photos/Shutterstock
Somewhere between a landmark and an entire neighborhood, Fisherman’s Wharf hugs the San Francisco Bay between the Golden Gate and Bay Bridge. It’s home to many shops and restaurants, museums such as Madame Tussauds and Ripley’s Believe It or Not, and eclectic attractions like Instagram-bait Umbrella Alley. Several family-friendly points of interest are concentrated at Pier 39, from carnival games and rides, escape rooms, and candy shops to an aquarium and a resident sea lion colony. Home to tour operators of all persuasions, Fisherman’s Wharf is an excellent launching point for greater explorations, whether you rent a GoCar or Blazing Saddles bike or book a bay cruise.
Palace of Fine Arts
Photo: Vadim 777/Shutterstock
The Palace of Fine Arts may be San Francisco’s most beautiful building. Designed in the image of a Roman ruin, the now-venue was constructed for the Panama-Pacific International Exposition that was held in San Francisco in 1915. Its 162-foot-tall rotunda, which sits atop stately colonnades, has since become one of the most recognizable features of San Francisco’s skyline. These days, the Palace of Fine Arts is used as a theater and exhibition space for public and private events. Tours of the interior are available, but you’re better off admiring the structure and Golden Gate Bridge views on a walk around the enclosed lagoon.
Where: 3601 Lyon St, San Francisco, CA 94123
Landmark neighborhoods in San FranciscoChinatown
Photo: Jeff Whyte/Shutterstock
San Francisco’s Chinatown is not just a local landmark but a national one, being the oldest Chinatown in North America and the largest Chinatown outside of Asia. Iconic restaurants such as House of Nanking and Mister Jiu’s are the obvious lure, but there are a few attractions you’ll want to see too. At the top of the list are the Dragon Gate at the southern entrance, the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Company where the Asian-American treat that supposedly originated in San Francisco is made, and the Great Star Theater which has operated since 1925. To catch Chinatown at its liveliest, plan your visit around the Chinese New Year parade in late January or early February.
Haight-Ashbury
Photo: Taner Muhlis Karaguzel/Shutterstock
The Haight, also known as Haight-Ashbury after the intersection of those two streets, made its name as the epicenter of San Francisco’s counterculture revolution in the mid-20th century. Some 100,000 hippies famously descended on the neighborhood during the Summer of Love in 1967 while musicians like Janis Joplin and the members of the Grateful Dead were living there. You can still see the Victorian houses that many of the great bands of that era occupied — 635 and 710 Ashbury for Joplin and the Grateful Dead, respectively — as well as visit Amoeba Music to thumb through records and see how the neighborhood’s music heritage is still going strong.
The Castro
Photo: canyalcin/Shutterstock
The Castro is San Francisco’s venerable gayborhood, a command post of LGBTQ+ culture and activism where Harvey Milk, the first openly gay man to be elected to public office in California, famously began his political career. Still an LGBTQ+ haven with the rainbow insignia to prove it, The Castro is a fun and lively neighborhood filled with great bars and restaurants. When you’re done checking out landmarks like the Castro Theatre and the GLBT History Museum, grab a drink at Twin Peaks Tavern, San Francisco’s very first gay bar. You might also consider visiting during the Castro Street Fair in October or during SF Pride in June.
The best museums in San FranciscoDe Young Museum
Photo: Checubus/Shutterstock
The de Young is San Francisco’s premier fine arts museum. It’s one half of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, the largest public arts institution in the city — along with the Legion of Honor — and is located within Golden Gate Park. Housing artworks, textiles, and costumes from the 17th century to the present, the de Young displays creations from all over the world, notably the Americas, Africa, and Oceania. One highlight is built right into the museum: James Turrell’s Three Gems, a “skyspace with lighting that alters your perception of the sky’s color.”
Where: 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118
California Academy of Sciences
Photo: Sundry Photography/Shutterstock
Right across a patch of Golden Gate Park from the de Young is the California Academy of Science, one of the largest natural history museums in the world. Exhibits include an aquarium, planetarium, and rainforest, which together house more than 40,000 live animals and 45 million specimens. Every Thursday night, the museum also hosts a NightLife event from 6 PM to 10 PM for 21+ visitors to see the rainforest, planetarium, and more after dark.
Where: 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)
Photo: Vlad Teodor/Shutterstock
Occupying 170,000 square feet in the SoMA neighborhood, including seven gallery floors and 45,000 square feet of free-to-enjoy art-filled public space, SFMOMA is one of the largest art museums in the country. It showcases over 33,000 artworks from the 20th and 21st centuries — local, international, and everything in between — favoring “the new, the challenging, and the unexpected” in painting, sculpture, architecture and design, media arts, photography, and film. In addition to major names like Henri Matisse and Frida Kahlo, SFMOMA is an excellent place to discover Bay Area artists whom the museum makes a point to collect and support.
Where: 151 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94103
The best parks in San FranciscoGolden Gate Park
Photo: Irina Kosareva/Shutterstock
Running three miles east to west from the heart of San Francisco to the edge of the Pacific Ocean but a mere half-mile north to south, Golden Gate Park is a large rectangular public park that resembles Central Park in New York City but is roughly 20 percent larger. There are a number of attractions located inside the park, including the de Young Museum and California Academy of Sciences, the Japanese Tea Garden, the Conservatory of Flowers, and Kezar Stadium. There are also plenty of green spaces within the park, such as Hellman’s Hollow and Lindley Meadow, which in addition to being excellent places to picnic on a warm day are two sites of the popular annual music festivals Outside Lands and Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival.
The Presidio
Photo: Celso Diniz/Shutterstock
Military post turned national park, The Presidio is a sprawling park system in San Francisco that covers 1,500 acres beginning right across the Golden Gate Bridge. There are 24 miles of trails and 300 acres of forest within the park, many of which showcase views of the bridge and the San Francisco Bay. Top attractions within the park include Baker Beach, home of the very first Burning Man effigy; Civil War-era fortification that shares its name with a promontory that now opens to a legendary surf spot Fort Point; and grassy expanse Crissy Field. The presidio also hosts attractions such as a golf course, performing arts theater, bowling alley, and overnight accommodations at the Inn at the Presidio or the Lodge at the Presidio.
The best free things to do in San FranciscoCross the Golden Gate Bridge
Photo: SB Freelancer/Shutterstock
If you only know one thing about San Francisco, it’s probably the ironically rust-red Golden Gate Bridge. Connecting the hilly Marin Headlands to San Francisco, spanning the wide-open shiny San Francisco Bay, the bridge is a beauty to behold — but it’s also a thrill to walk across. Approximately 1.7 miles one way, it takes approximately 30 minutes to walk across. The views are great from the other side, but if you’re planning on hiking in the Headlands or venturing into Marin County towns like Sausalito, you’ll need a car to navigate the highway.
Cruise down Lombard Street
Photo: Maks Ershov/Shutterstock
Lombard Street is a main street in San Francisco with a famously crooked section. The entire street is about three miles long but the famous zig-zag block makes up just a small section, roughly eight switchbacks spanning 600 feet, between Hyde Street and Leavenworth Street. Many tourists drive down, meaning traffic can get pretty backed up, but you can also walk the set of stairs on both sides, which makes it easier to take pictures.
Head to Ocean Beach
Photo: Maks Ershov/Shutterstock
San Francisco is surrounded by water on three sides, so you better believe there are some great beaches. Ocean Beach is the largest, stretching 3.5 miles along the Pacific and forming part of the city’s westernmost border. It’s a big — and sometimes brutal — surfer haunt with a wide sandy shore that’s also excellent for beach activities like sunbathing and kite-flying. At night, it’s common to see strings of bonfires lining the shore. Ocean Beach is also well connected to other free San Francisco landmarks including one end of Golden Gate Park, the disused Sutro Baths, and the Land’s End trailhead.
Hike the Crosstown Trail
Photo: Bertl123/Shutterstock
San Francisco is one of the best cities in the country for urban hiking. There are several famous hikes, including Land’s End, Batteries to Bluffs, and Twin Peaks. But the ultimate walk is along the Crosstown Trail, a 17-mile route that connects all of the city’s green spaces. Whether you tackle the whole trail or do it in pieces, the Crosstown Trail is an excellent way to see a lot of San Francisco without spending a dime.
The best things to do with kids in San FranciscoExploratorium
Photo: Iv-olga/Shutterstock
The exploratorium is a fun, zany, interactive science center founded by physicist Frank Oppenheimer. Originally located in the Palace of Fine Arts, it’s now at Pier 15 on The Embarcadero. There are over 600 exhibitions split between six galleries, which explore disciplines ranging from optics and anatomy to physics and geology. A hands-on and educational outing for kids, the Exploratorium is also fun for adults — even more so on Thursdays after dark when the museum becomes an 18+ venue complete with drinks and DJs.
Where: Pier 15 Embarcadero at, Green St, San Francisco, CA 94111
Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience
Photo: f11photo/Shutterstock
Chocolate factory site turned commercial complex, Ghirardelli Square has been a San Francisco landmark since 1862 and a National Register of Historic Places inductee since 1982. The square is home to several shops and restaurants, including three different Ghirardelli Chocolate storefronts: the Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop, Ghirardelli On-The-Go, and The Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience. More than just a chocolate shop, the Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience houses the largest pick-and-mix candy counter in the world, chocolate treats from sundaes to hot cocoas that you can enjoy in store, a chocolatier station where you can see chocolate-making in action, and first-rate views of Alcatraz in the San Francisco Bay. It’s a delight to visit — whether or not you let your little ones indulge in all the sweets.
Where: 900 North Point St F301, San Francisco, CA 94109
The best things to do at night in San FranciscoSee some live music
Photo: agwilson/Shutterstock
San Francisco’s status as a music city may have been forged by rock legends like the Grateful Dead and Jefferson Airplane, but the city has maintained its prolific music scene ever since. Concert venues like The Fillmore, The Warfield, Great American Music Hall, The Independent, Rickshaw Stop, and joint venture Cafe Du Nord and Swedish American Hall are to thank, ensuring that live music is available every night of the week, be it a major name or a cult-favorite indie band. Jazz enthusiasts also have their pick of venues, including Club Deluxe in The Haight and Mr. Tipple’s Recording Studio in Hayes Valley.
Catch a comedy show
Photo: Nounpusher Photography/Shutterstock
San Francisco’s comedy scene is no rival for that of New York City or Chicago, but it’s big enough that you can count on seeing some standup any night of the week. There are two main comedy clubs, Cobb’s and The Punch Line, as well as smaller venues like Milk Bar in The Haight that regularly stage standup shows and open-mic nights.
Essential restaurants in San FranciscoLa Taqueria
Photo: lynn friedman/Shutterstock
La Taq, as locals say, is one of two Mexican restaurants in the Mission District that’s credited with originating San Francisco’s signature burrito style. The restaurant’s carnitas burrito has been named America’s best more than once.
Where: 2889 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Good Luck Dim SumGood Luck Dim Sum is one of many dim sum spots on Clement Street in the Richmond District, which is sometimes referred to as “New Chinatown.” There’s usually a line outside the cash- and takeout-only restaurant, but it moves quickly, and the prices are outrageously generous.
Where: 736 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118
State Bird ProvisionsThis one-Michelin-star restaurant puts a different spin on dim sum with Asian-leaning California cuisine and family-style serving system. Sister restaurant and neighbor The Progress plates up equally outstanding dishes under the same unfussy fine-dining vision.
Where: 1529 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115
Lucca DelicatessenLucca is a family-owned deli in the Marina District that’s been slinging hearty Italian sandwiches, prepared foods, and a wide variety of imported goods since 1929. Order a sub for pickup and go picnic at nearby Marina Green, Fort Mason, or Chrissy Field to avoid the usual line.
Where: 2120 Chestnut St, San Francisco, CA 94123
Swan Oyster Depot
Photo: Suzette Leg Anthony/Shutterstock
Ever since Anthony Bourdain endorsed Swan Oyster Depot in “Parts Unknown” the Nob Hill seafood institution has become a target for locals and tourists alike, even though it’s been around since 1912. Get there early to snag a seat at the 18-seat counter so you can slurp down fresh oysters and crab backs. Bring cash.
Where: 1517 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109
TartineWidely considered San Francisco’s best bakery, Tartine has three locations: the original bakery on Guerrero Street in the Mission, a manufactory less than a mile away, and an outpost by Golden Gate Park. Rustic country bread and other fresh loaves put the bakery on the map, but the croissants, morning buns, pastries, and sandwiches are equally worth the guaranteed wait.
Where: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Sotto MareAn old-school neighborhood joint in North Beach, San Francisco’s Little Italy, Sotto Mare sports nautical decor to match its seafood-heavy menu. Heed the advice that’s highlighted on the menu and awning out front and order “the best damn crab cioppino” for two.
Where: 552 Green St, San Francisco, CA 94133
Marufuku RamenTucked away on the top floor of the Japan Center mall in Japantown, Marufuku Ramen specializes in Hakata-style Tonotsu ramen. Rice bowls, small bites, and other ramen styles round out the menu, and the wooden minimalist interior is worth the wait to get a table.
Where: 1581 Webster St #235, San Francisco, CA 94115
Zuni CaféZuni’s roasted chicken for two — which is roasted in a two-story wood-fired brick oven that also serves as a decor piece — is the stuff of legends in San Francisco. The esteemed bistro on Market Street serves seasonal French- and Italian-inspired fare with a superb wine list to pair.
Where: 1658 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Golden Boy Pizza
Photo: James Kirkikis/Shutterstock
Golden Boy Pizza serves square slices using a focaccia bread base in the self-proclaimed “San Francilian” style. It’s a North Beach favorite that’s been around since 1978.
Where: 542 Green St, San Francisco, CA 94133
GreensA vegetarian restaurant that’s a favorite of many meat-eating San Franciscans, Greens has a prime perch on the water in Fort Mason. It skews pricey for a relatively casual restaurant, but dishes like grilled cabbage shawarma, cauliflower griddle cakes, and wild mushroom larb make it worthwhile. On Saturdays and Sundays, the brunch service is particularly popular.
Where: Fort Mason Center, Building A, 2 Marina Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94123
CaliforniosA must-eat Mexican restaurant of a different persuasion than most of the casual eateries in the Mission District, Californios is a pricey SoMa spot with two Michelin stars and a nightly tasting menu featuring contemporary California-Mexican cuisine made with seasonal ingredients.
Where: 355 11th St, San Francisco, CA 94103
Che FicoOne of many renowned restaurants in NoPa, Che Fico is a buzzy Cal-Italian taverna with two levels: the trendy upstairs spot that popularized the Che Fico name, and downstairs sister restaurant Che Fico Alimentari that’s more casual but no less delicious. Pasta is handmade, cocktails are fantastic, and the digs are perfect for date night or group dining.
Where: 838 Divisadero St, San Francisco, CA 94117
Hog Island Oyster Company
Photo: Lynn Yeh/Shutterstock
Hog Island is a beloved local oyster company with a 160-acre farm in Tomales Bay, roughly 1.5 hours north of San Francisco in West Marin, and multiple restaurants in the Bay Area. One of those restaurants is located in the city’s Ferry Building, which also hosts a Saturday farmer’s market in the plaza outside where Hog Island has a booth.
Where: Ferry Building, #11, San Francisco, CA 94111
San TungChinese restaurant San Tung lays claim to some of the best chicken wings in San Francisco — dry fried, spicy, and delicious. The rest of the menu is extensive, but the long lines at this Inner Sunset hotspot are primarily due to the wings — schedule an order for takeout to enjoy in nearby Golden Gate Park if you don’t want to risk a long line.
Where: 1031 Irving St, San Francisco, CA 94122
Essential bars in San FranciscoTrue LaurelTrue Laurel is a deceptively chi-chi cocktail bar in the Mission. Creative drinks with catchy names like “Seville Disobedience” and “Quincess Bride” rotate regularly, with exactly the sort of refined dinner and brunch menus you’d expect from the team behind top-end New American restaurant Lazy Bear, which is just 10 minutes away on foot.
Where: 753 Alabama St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Smuggler’s CoveSay what you will about tiki bars, San Francisco has some of the best. In fairness, Smuggler’s Cove bills itself more eloquently as a “top rum and exotic cocktails destination,” but if you’re a sucker for tropical drinks and pirate-ship-style decor, Smuggler’s Cove delivers like none other.
Where: 650 Gough St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Trick DogTrick Dog is exactly as hip as you’d expect a warehouse turned cocktail bar in the Mission to be. It’s the sort of place that describes its drinks list as “one part poetry anthology, two parts cocktail menu.” Everyone else describes it as a haven for great drinks, an easygoing ambiance, and a food menu that can satisfy both self-proclaimed foodies and basic munchies.
Where: 3010 20th St, San Francisco, CA 94110
The AlembicThe Alembic brings a touch of class to Haight Street, with handcrafted cocktails, elevated bar food, and intimate but big-enough environs. It’d make a great stop during date night, but at its core The Alembic is a neighborhood bar that’s perfect for any old night out.
Where: 1725 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117
El RioEl Rio is a large LGBTQ+ bar on Mission Street with a giant patio that makes good use of the space it has with an events calendar that includes everything from drag-queen-hosted karaoke to throwback dance parties to reproductive justice fundraisers. All are welcome as long as they’re kind and open-minded, and the crowd skews diverse and inclusive.
3158 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Comstock SaloonFirst opened in 1907, and restored in 2010, this historic bar has a supremely central location between North Beach, Chinatown, and the Financial District. For an old-school spot it’s never stuffy, with live jazz every night and free lunch with every two-cocktail order on Fridays to keep things interesting.
Where: 155 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133
The PageThe Page is a dive bar with character that’s named for the cross street where it’s located on Divisadero Street — Divis once you speak SF — in the Lower Haight. In addition to cocktails, wine, and 23 beers on tap, there are pool tables, foosball tables, and ample outdoor seating if you prefer that to the leather booths inside.
Where:298 Divisadero St, San Francisco, CA 94117
High TreasonCasual yet classy, High Treason is a wine bar in the Inner Richmond with a sleek interior and a heck of a good selection of wines, from red, white, rose, and orange to sparkling, natural, and dessert. There are other drinks and food, too, and even games to borrow for a good time.
Where: 443 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118
PropagationThis botanical-themed bar in Lower Nob Hill is an oasis of greenery and innovative cocktails that prides itself on not taking reservations and not having WiFi. Stop by on a sunny day for a drink on the plant-filled patio to really lean into the Propagation vibe.
Where: 895 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94109
Royal CuckooRoyal Cuckoo is a bar unlike any other. One could describe it as a cocktail dive, where regulars come to sip expertly crafted drinks made with all sorts of bitters in a dark and eclectic setting. Vintage vinyl set the vibe although live blues and jazz performances are also common.
Where: 3202 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Where to stay in San FranciscoWe 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.
The Fairmont
Photo: ja-images/Shutterstock
A Nob Hill landmark, the Fairmont is a San Francisco icon dating back to 1907. Guests of the hotel are just 15 minutes from Union Square and 25 minutes from Fisherman’s Wharf on foot. Countless famous guests, from royalty to celebrities, have graced the Fairmont’s elegant rooms — 606 in total — and two award-winning restaurants.
Where: 950 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94108
Hotel DriscoHotel Drisco is a boutique hotel in pricey Pacific Heights that’s designed to feel like an Edwardian hideaway. The neighborhood is equal parts residential and lively, with excellent restaurants and shops within walking distance. But with nightly wine and hors d’oeuvres receptions, guests will enjoy their time spent at the hotel just as much.
Where: 2901 Pacific Ave, San Francisco, CA 94115
Hotel del SolThis vibrant yet folksy spot in the Marina District, located just two blocks up from buzzy Chestnut Street, got the memo that retro motor lodges are once again cool. The rooms are clean and colorful, the neighborhood views are unbeatable, and the pool is perfect for family vacationers. With rooms for as little as $76 per night, Hotel del Sol is hands down one of San Francisco’s best budget accommodations.
Where: 3100 Webster St, San Francisco, CA 94123
November 22, 2022
In Switzerland, Cows Parade Down Mountains in Flower Crowns
Scenes of Switzerland invariably include Alpine slopes dotted with dairy cows happily munching on summer grasses. At other times of year, however, those slopes are covered in snow and filled with skiers. How do these cows get back down before the winter storms?
They do so in a parade, festooned with flowers, ambling downwards to the sounds of cowbells, Alpine yodeling, or horn-playing, all the while cheered by onlookers. Every autumn in Switzerland, the movement of these bovine beasts, more than a quarter million of them, from 7,000 different mountain pastures to the valley floor thousands of feet below, is a major event.
This seasonal celebration, featuring goats, prized cows wearing flower-crowns, and farmers and shepherds clad in traditional costumes, is repeated all over Switzerland throughout the fall. Here’s what you need to know to understand and see the best cow festivals in Switzerland.
Why do the cows come down the mountain in Switzerland?The Swiss, along with other Alpine countries like Austria, have long been taking their cattle to higher elevations in the summer to graze on fresh grasses and herbs that thrive during the short window of warmer days. In May or June, dairy farmers and herdsmen take their cows uphill — an average height of 2,000 feet higher — where the herdsmen themselves will stay for up to three months.
When they opt to come back down depends on mountain conditions. If it’s been a rainy summer, they may descend as early as the end of August, since alpine grasses will begin to rot. Dry weather may mean that grasses are eaten up. A summer of ideal weather may mean the cattle are brought down as late as mid-October.
Once shepherds decide when the processions will take place, the event is choreographed to occur in a particular order. Many parades begin with goats led by a goat boy and watched also by goat girls, while others begin with the cows. Either way, the star of the event is the dairy cow. It may be a single “dairy queen” cow or three, wearing an herbal headdress, a massive red ribbon, or an ultra-huge cowbell.
Dairy cows are revered in Switzerland. It’s not just that their milk is the magic ingredient in some of the world’s best cheeses and chocolates, but because they’re central to a traditional Swiss way of life dating back centuries. This celebration is a chance for proud dairy farmers and onlookers to shower them with appreciation.
The processions vary in size and location — with those occurring in mountain villages providing the best backdrop, but potentially requiring you to arrive in a shuttle bus. (Unless you hike in). The ones in cities don’t feel quite as old-timey, but may end up at a food fair where you can sample cheeses made by the same dairy farmers who are herding the cows and which make for some of the coziest winter foods anywhere. Here are some of the most notable cattle drives.
Cow parade in Switzerland #1: Appenzell
Photo: Appenzellerland Tourismus AR
Photo: Appenzellerland Tourismus AR
Photo: Appenzellerland Tourismus AR
Photo: Appenzellerland Tourismus AR
Photo: Appenzellerland Tourismus AR
Appenzell is one of the smallest Swiss Cantons, which is like a mini-state, and also one of the most traditional. That adherence to the old ways of doing things makes for an impressive Alpabzug, as the cattle descent is known here, if for no other reason than the attire worn by the humans is meticulously detailed.
In Appenzell, the parades are led by a young Gässbueb, or goat boy, and the Appenzell white goats, followed by a goat girl. Behind them are the three best dairy cows — those that produced the most milk over the summer, with dairy men in traditional costumes following. While the young goat girls wear midi-length dresses, white lacy stockings, and wide traditional belts, the male costumes steal the show: lemon-yellow deerskin pants, crimson vests, and black hats decorated with flowers. No detail is overlooked in Appenzell, where dairymen wear a gold earring of a small, dangling bowl.
The soundtrack in Appenzell is the pleasantly low murmur of the huge cowbells worn by the lead cows, accompanied by yodeling called Zauren. Given that it’s on the wetter side of the country, Appenzell cattle drives may occur as early as August, and certainly by the end of September.
Cow parade in Switzerland #2: InterlakenThe cattle drive in Suldtal is one of the most tourist-ready, seeing as Interlaken is one of the most popular places for summer travelers. The goat girl in bright red dresses and goat boys in black jackets start off the show, bringing with them white, brown, and black goats, wearing their melodious goatbells. The cows and their herders follow. A shuttle bus from Aeschiried takes you to Suldtal (the bus costs CHF 5, about $5, and free for 16 and under). The event ends at a restaurant, where you can enjoy lunch and even buy things like cheeses made from the milk these herb- and grass-fed cows produce.
Cow parade in Switzerland #4: ValaisCanton Valais is one of the sunnier regions of Switzerland, and the descent of the dairy cows may not occur until October. Valais also has the highest concentration of very tall mountains in Switzerland, and getting up to the tall peaks in the first place is no small feat. When the cows first ascend in late spring or early summer, village celebrations are also held, and the cows are blessed.
In Valais, one difference is that rather than yodeling, the cattle move to the sound of alphorns – along with their cowbells. At cattle drives in places like Belalp, Ried-Brig, Leukerbad, and Siviez, the emphasis is less on traditional costumes, which may be nothing more than a matching shirt, but the cows wear lovely tiaras or sunflowers or mountain blooms.
Cow parade in Switzerland #5: Graubünden
Photo: Johannes Baertsch/Prättigau Tourismus
Photo: Johannes Baertsch/Prättigau Tourismus
Photo: Johannes Baertsch/Prättigau Tourismus
Photo: Johannes Baertsch/Prättigau Tourismus
Like in Valais, Graubünden herders aren’t as meticulous about their attire. All will wear bright blue shirts and don black felt hats with flowers. But in this canton, it’s acceptable to wear jeans instead of yellow leather pants. The additional attention here seems to be down to the cow’s headdress, which may be decorated with pine branches and cones, sunflowers, and alpine wildflowers. However, they do make an entire weekend of it in Prättigau, near Davos. Each October, the Alpspektakel, as they call it, includes a food market, a children’s petting zoo, choral presentations in traditional dress, and even a goat shearing.
Cow parade in Switzerland #6: GstaadPhoto: Destination Gstaad
Photo: Destination Gstaad
Photo: Destination Gstaad
Photo: Destination Gstaad
Gstaad may be best known for its couture shops and fine cuisine, where people go to ski for a morning, so they can spend the afternoon having lunch and strolling the main pedestrian lane in their poshest winter attire. But the Saanenland region in which Gstaad is located is home to 200 high altitude dairies, the highest one of which is at 6500 feet above sea level. Since the cattle drives wind up in the elegant town of Gstaad, in one of many summer festivals, it’s only fitting that the farmers outdo themselves creating truly ornate flower headdresses for their best dairy cows.
Cow parade in Switzerland #7: St. Gallen
Photo: Charly Gurt/Mels Tourismus
Photo: Charly Gurt/Mels Tourismus
Photo: Charly Gurt/Mels Tourismus
Photo: Charly Gurt/Mels Tourismus
In the canton of St. Gallen, the dairy farmers at the Mels cattle drive are as florally festooned as their cows — with flowers embroidered on their shirts and plenty of flowers in their hair or on their felt caps. In addition to bouquets, the cows carry wooden placards, which look like coats of arms, on their foreheads. There’s a relaxed vibe to this cattle drive, which winds up in town, where an open market offers up bites to eat and beer to drink.
Cow parade in Switzerland #8: Canton BernIf you can’t make it to Switzerland in the fall, there are opportunities to see cattle drives in the spring and summer, too. In fact, the most famous cattle drive in Canton Bern is not the autumn trip down — but the summer ascent at Engstligenalp near Alpenboden. On a single day in June, 500 cows are guided in single file up a steep, narrow staircase carved on the mountain. It’s such a sight that the cable car begins operating at 5:00 AM so that travelers can come to see these gentle creatures show off how mountain-ready they really are.
The Ultimate Guide To Island Hopping the Princes’ Islands of Türkiye
A sprawl of mosques, hammams, bazaars, and neighborhoods lorded over by cats, Istanbul will keep you on your toes. For an altogether different pace, tap on a trip to the Princes’ Islands. Located 13 miles southeast of Istanbul in the Sea of Marmara, Adalar – “the Islands” – was a banishing place for rogue royalty during the Byzantine era. These days, with four of the nine open to tourists, the Princes’ Islands are a popular summer getaway for Istanbulites and a fuss-free option for either a day trip or an overnighter.
Set sail to Princes’ Islands (Adalar)Dust off the bustle of Türkiye’s largest city with a scenic crossing chaperoned by screeching seagulls. Whichever island(s) you choose to explore, the first thing you’ll notice is the sound – or, lack of it. The vast majority of motorized vehicles are banned in idyllic Adalar, with the exception of emergency services. A handful of electric golf carts are available, in place of the horse-drawn carriages banned in late 2019.
Once at your chosen destination, you’ll spend your time taking in the nature, viewpoints, and architecture while soaking up the languid shift in tone. Rental bicycles are readily available near all harbors. Realistically, you can get around a maximum of two islands in one full day without needing to rush.
Kınalıada – Henna Island
Photo: YoncaEvren/Shutterstock
As the closest to Istanbul, Kınalıada is the first island you’ll catch sight of from the ferry. Shaped by the Çınar, Teşrifiye, and Manastır hills, the name is a nod to the ruddy hue of the land caused by past mining. Despite being the smallest of the quartet, Kınalıada is the most densely populated isle. Kınalıada Halk Plajı, a 20-minute walk from the ferry terminal, is the star beach although you’ll appreciate aqua shoes when taking a dip.
While Kınalıada is worthy of a visit if you’re spending a night or two island-hopping, prioritize the others for a day trip.
Büyükada – Big Island
Photo: Nejdet Duzen/Shutterstock
Büyükada receives the lion’s share of Adalar tourism and offers the most in terms of sights. At the time of the late Ottoman Empire, Adalar began to emerge as a hideaway for the elite of Istanbul with elegant wooden mansions restyling the island’s aesthetic. Büyükada showcases the finest of these buildings, particularly on Çankaya Street which is lined with the grandest properties. Upon exile from Russia, Leon Trotsky dwelled in Büyükada from 1929 until 1933. You’ll spy the remains of his house, Troçki Evi, buried beneath the greenery off Nizam Street.
Follow the trail up Yücetepe where you can drink up seascapes from the Hagios Georgios Koudounas and Aya Yorgi churches. Not far from these stands the derelict Greek Orthodox orphanage, Rum Yetimhanesi: the largest wooden building in Europe. If the hilly terrain of Büyükada National Park takes its toll, drop down to one of the halk plajı (public beaches) for a refreshing swim.
Heybeliada – Saddlebag Island
Photo: Berkomaster/Shutterstock
Coated with thick woodland, Heybeliada is the greenest of the bunch. It earned its name for the valley dipping in between two twin hills in the heart of the island while the aromatic scent of pine guides you through the interior hiking trails.
Heybeliada has become a popular alternative to the popular Büyükada, with a similar number of Victorian-era cottages to pore over. Virtually all are private homes, but you can pay a visit to the Inonu House Museum, formerly owned by İsmet İnönü who served Türkiye as both prime minister and president.
Venture down to the southern cliffs for the best views and a peek at the abandoned sanatorium.
Burgazada – Fortress Island
Photo: Thomas Dekiere/Shutterstock
With most travelers jumping ship at Büyükada or Heybeliada, “Burgaz” flies beneath the radar. The center rises to form Bayraktepe (Flag Hill), the summit of which grants a windswept vantage point over the archipelago and the Anatolian shoreline. Pivotal Turkish writer, Sait Faik Abasıyanık, called Burgazada home and sought inspiration from the island. His former residence is now a museum that shines a light on how well-to-do Turkish people lived during the mid-20th century.
Burgazada’s main square around the ferry has a cheerful array of seafood restaurants and cafes overlooking the harbor. The Turkish tea and cake at Burgazada Ergün Pastanesi are alone deserving of hopping off the ferry. With one day in Adalar, you could comfortably split your time across Burgaz and either of the two larger isles.
When to visit AdalarMuch like Istanbul, Adalar works as a year-round destination. July and August bring the hottest temperatures for sunbathing and swimming. However, as Istanbulites pile onto the islands, you’ll find yourself wrestling for a spot. The shoulder season months of April, May, June, September, and October experience agreeable weather minus the summer crowds. With a Mediterranean climate, the Princes’ Islands rarely drop as cold as Istanbul in winter and are spared the typical snowfall.
Getting to the Princes’ IslandsTours are readily available but it’s easy to visit Adalar independently. Şehir Hatları operates ferries from the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. Boats depart from Eminönü, Beşıktaş, and Kabataş piers on the European side, and Kadıköy, Bostanci, and Kartal on the Anatolian side. Note, vessels reach Büyükada last, with the journey time from Kabataş taking approximately one hour and 45 minutes.
Save money by using your IstanbulKart, a handy purchase if you’re planning to use Istanbul’s comprehensive public transport system. Alternatively, you can purchase a paper ticket at the pier. Ferries are roomy with internal and external seating, restrooms, and a cafe. Always double-check the ferry schedule with the departure screens at each pier before setting out to explore.
Where to stay on the Princes’ Islands
Photo: Sadik Gulec/Shutterstock
We hope you love the Adelar Islands hotels and Airbnbs 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 not necessary to stay overnight in the Princes’ Islands but if time permits it’s a unique experience. Rates in Adalar fluctuate as per the season.
Büyükada offers the widest diversity in terms of accommodation. Ada Palas Boutique Hotel occupies a renovated wooden mansion with breakfast included in the rate. Adventurous travelers needn’t forfeit luxury at Büyükada Glamping where dome tents are equipped with Jacuzzi tubs overlooking the surrounding nature.
Airbnb rentals are widely available on all four islands. Take in a panoramic view of the Asian side skyline from this Büyükada duplex with a terrace. Meanwhile, this two-bedroom cottage with a garden on Heybeliada was originally a hammam. This chic three-bedroom condo on Burgazada is appointed with mod-cons and a lovely terrace overlooking a local tennis court and church.
Coupled with economical ferry and hotel costs and affordable food, a day out to Adalar is light on the wallet. Time your trip back to Istanbul wisely and you’ll catch the sunset from the deck.
Every Celebrity-Owned Honky Tonk in Nashville, Ranked
Country music and Nashville, Tennessee, have long gone hand-in-hand. While many flock to the Tennessee to catch a live music at one of Nashville’s iconic venues, the very superstars they’re seeing have likely been discovered in one of the many Nashville honky tonk bars around town.
Country artists and songwriters moving to Nashville in droves looking for their big break. Looking for stardom and new fans, they pack the many stages along lower Broadway all day and all night long. Tourism has taken off as a result – when you walk into a Nashville honky tonk, you never know who may take the stage next.
Long-tenured entertainment staples like Tootsie’s and Robert’s Western World (a local favorite) have contributed to the city’s musical acclaim. In the early 2010s, country music stars from Alan Jackson to Jason Aldean began to take notice, soon opening outposts featuring their own name in lights. Now, 10 celebrity-owned honky tonks shine along Broadway’s neon-lit streets.
Grab your best boots and cowboy hat (so you’re sure to fit in with the locals) as you head for a boot scootin’ good time on Broadway. Here are all of the celebrity-owned honky tonks in the city, ranked.
The best 10 Nashville honky tonks, ranked10. Kid Rock’s Big Ass Honky TonkThe Big Ass Honky Tonk from Kid Rock certainly earned its name with five floors, four stages ,and six bars, often reaching its two thousand-person capacity (and if not, expect a lot of bumping elbows). Inside awaits something for everyone: live music for boot scootin’, a steakhouse menu for people on a dinner date, 4K TVs on every floor showing the sports, and a rooftop bar. While sure to provide an unforgettable experience particularly for those visiting the city, the big ass bar can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Where: 221 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201
9. Redneck Riviera
Photo: Redneck Riviera
If you’re feeling extra patriotic, Redneck Riviera is the place to be. Built to celebrate “every hard working American,” the bar places a special emphasis on America’s military at its Heroes Bar on the ground level and rooftop, where all military and first responders can grab two-for-one domestic beers. The venue from former Lonestar singer John Rich is small, but offers plenty of booze, barbecue and rooftop views of lower Broadway.
Where: 208 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201
8. Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row
Photo: Whiskey Row
The fourth outpost of Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row found its home among country music peers in Nashville in early 2018. The multi-level venue has a “country industrial” vibe with multiple floors of dining and entertainment, plus a rooftop bar. While smaller than its neighbors, the rooftop VIP areas often allow for sightings of your favorite Bachelor Nation contestant, influencer or country star, though space for regular tourists can be limited.
Where: 400 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
7. AJ’s Good Time Bar
Photo: AJ’s Good Time Bar
Step inside history at AJ’s Good Time Bar, the oldest building on Broadway. What was once a record store, record label and even a Civil War hospital, is now an unfussy entertainment venue from country legend Alan Jackson. Taking direction from its name, each of the venue’s four floors promises a laid-back good time. Grab drinks from one of the lower floors before taking the spotlight on the nautical-themed third floor’s “Hullbilly” karaoke stage or pulling up a chair on the rooftop. It’s always 5 o’clock at AJ’s.
Where: 421 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
6. Luke’s 32 Bridge
Photo: Ford Photographs
The entire corner of Third and Broadway comes alive inside Luke’s 32 Bridge. Drawing inspiration from Luke Bryan’s Georgia roots, the bar and restaurant features recipes that might remind patrons of Southern home cooking, plus craft cocktails and live music spanning multiple floors. With a rooftop overlooking two bustling downtown streets, Luke’s 32 Bridge is the perfect spot to sip, sing and enjoy the (often very entertaining) people watching. Pro tip: the rooftop connects to Jason Aldean’s, so might be able to hit two bars with one stone.
Where: 301 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201
5. Blake Shelton’s Ole Red
Photo: Ole Red
As a coach on the hit series The Voice, Blake Shelton has a knack for discovering musical talent. Now, his Broadway venue Ole Red packs its stages all day long with artists on the cusp of their big break. Shelton himself described Ole Red as a “music venue first,” where visitors are treated to a concert experience from any barstool inside. Beyond the music, Ole Red serves up elevated bar food, craft cocktails and cold beer across its floors, with the city’s tallest rooftop fashioning a relaxed, VIP experience.
Where: 300 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201
4. FGL House
Photo: FGL House
Located only a short walk from Broadway, FGL House from Florida Georgia Line is a multi-level dining and entertainment venue with live music booming daily. While the duo behind the bar may be on a break, it remains one of the best in the city largely thanks to its off-Broadway location, spacious layout and massive rooftop offering sweeping city views. The food and drink menus are inspired by the band’s favorite dishes, plus cocktails mixed with their spirits brand, Old Camp Whiskey.
Where: 120 3rd Ave. South, Nashville, TN 37201
3. Nashville Underground
Photo: Nashville Underground
Brothers Joey and Gavin DeGraw (best known for his pop hit featured on One Tree Hill) earn the third spot on the list for their six-story venue, Nashville Underground. Despite what its name may suggest, the bar begins at street level and boasts one of the largest rooftops on the strip (a double-decker). The entertainment found within goes beyond live music and rotating DJ sets, as the venue also houses a mechanical bull, LED dance floor and a turf-covered rooftop game area.
Where: 105 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201
2. Casa Rosa
Photo: Ford Photographs
The city of Nashville is in the running for the Bachelorette Capital of the World, and one of the queens of country music delivered exactly what the Broadway-bound brides-to-be need. Miranda Lambert’s colorful Casa Rosa is brimming with photo ops – from its hot pink booths to opulent Western detailing. Flavors from Texas and music from Tennessee merge throughout its four stories, beginning in the lower floors of the cantina and carrying through its thoughtfully decorated stages and rooftop.
Where: 308 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201
1. Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + RooftopThree-time ACM Entertainer of the Year winner Jason Aldean debuted his four-level venue in 2018, which quickly became a Broadway standout. With nods to his most popular songs sprinkled throughout (think: a Big Green Tractor bar), each level promises a different experience. Grab a bite in the ground level’s Southern-inspired restaurant, relax in the sports bar feel of the casual mezzanine level, and dance the night away at the largest rooftop patio on Broadway. Each spacious and thoughtful level earns Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop the number 1 spot on our charts.
Where: 307 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201
Visiting Chile’s Route of the Parks
At the southernmost tip of South America is the region of Patagonia, spread between Chile and part of Argentina. The region is one of the most extreme on earth, with huge mountains, rushing rivers, massive glaciers, rare wildlife, and the remnants of volcanos so tall they’re often shrouded in weather patterns different from those at the base. It’s extremely undeveloped and wild, thanks to federal protections from the two countries.
Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park. Photo: saiko3p/Shutterstock
Most people go to Patagonia to explore Chile national parks and famous regions like Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego or the penguin colonies around Punta Arenas. Many go to the most famous Chile national park — Torres del Paine — for everything from backpacking the famous O and W treks to staying at an estancia to ride horses through the park. Chile’s park system is one of the largest national parks systems in the world, covering more than 18 million acres and home to more than 800 species of birds and mammals.
Fortunately, Chile has a pre-built route for anyone who wants to see these amazing landscapes for themselves: the Route of the Parks, or La Ruta de los Parques, completed in 2018 (and with possibly the world’s coolest logo; you’ll definitely want a t-shirt). The route covers 1,700 miles and passes 17 Chile national parks. Here’s your complete guide to driving the route and all the information you need to start planing.
Maps and distancesParks along the routeWhen to goHow much time to spend in Chile national parksRoad conditions and drivingSections of the roadtripItineraries for shorter tripsLodging and nearby townsCar rentals and guided tripsWhere is the Route of the Parks?
Photo: La Ruta de los Parques.org
If you do the entire route, you’ll start at Cape Horn and need to travel via ferry to Navarino Island near Puerto Williams, the southernmost town in the world. The multi-day hikes on the island are world-class, though they’re quite hard to reach and have no facilities, so consider visiting with a guide unless you’re an expert routefinder and have plenty of experience camping in rough weather.
Otherwise, starting in the south, your first park is Yendegaia, before you start climbing up toward Chile’s side of Tierra del Fuego. You’ll then cross to the cute town of Puerto Arenas before driving north on the mainland to Porto Natales, the gateway town for Torres del Paine. You’ll then move toward the western coast, reaching the Chile national parks known for fjords, whales, and massive glaciers. Parks in this region include Parque Cerro Castillo and Queulat National Park, known for amazing waterfalls.
You’ll then keep going north and eventually end in Puerto Montt, from which you can fly back to Santiago. During the drive, you’ll have take take several ferries and some of the roads are windy, two-lane drives. Don’t count on a quick trip — but you wouldn’t want to drive it quickly, anyway.
What parks are on the route?
Los Alerces National Park chile. Photo: Guaxinim/Shutterstock
The Route of the Parks was opened at the end of 2018. It loops through 1,700 miles and 17 national parks, passing some of the best hiking trails in the world and opening new regions to areas tourists used to be unable to reach. It also opens smaller communities to tourism, bringing economic growth to some of the 50-plus small towns along the route. Until recently, many of these places were accessible only to the most die-hard of explorers who would hike or take ATVs deep into the wilderness. But now, anyone with a general interest in adventure travel can reach these formerly inaccessible places.
Some of the best Chile national parks on the route include Los Alerces National Park and its 3,000-year-old forests, and more recent parks like Pumalin Park and Patagonia Park, which reaches into Argentina. Accessibility to the parks varies, though. Some parks have roads in good condition, while others are accessible only by boat (or require you to travel with an approved tour operator). Nearly everyone has heard of Torres del Paine, while others like Kawéskar, famous for its fjords and healthy humpback whale populations, are more off-the-beaten-path.
Here’s the full list of parks, though not all of them are open to the public (yet).
When to visit the national parks in Chile
Snow in Patagonia is beautiful but makes many of the parks inaccessible. Photo: Ondrej Prosicky/Shutterstock
When to go is a bit tricky as Patagonia’s weather varies greatly, especially given how far south some of the parks are. Summer (which is November through February in South America) is the best time to go to ensure all the parks will be open and available. But if you only want to do a section of the route or see some of the parks, you can probably go outside of the summer, which will mean lower prices and smaller crowds.
The Route of the Parks website offers advice on which parks to visit during which season, but the long and short of it is that there are a few parks you really can’t reach in the winter: Cerro Castillo, Bernardo O’Higgins, Pali Aike, Kawésqar, and Cabo de Hornos national parks are only open October through April.
Remember that weather in Patagonia is extreme, especially in the south, and snow is possible even in the middle of summer. Weather also changes on a dime, and you can experience heavy rainy and snow as well as blazing sun within the same hour while hiking almost any trail in Chile’s national parks.
How much time do you need?You’ll want at least a month to make the drive, though that only leaves you a day or two in each park. You really can’t go for too long, but you can go too short. If you have only a week or less, consider visiting just one Chile national park, or perhaps two very close to each other, instead of trying to connect them as a full road trip.
Route of the Parks road conditions
With the exception of a few roads within parks, most drives along the Route of the Parks should be fine for most rental cars. Photo: Nido Huebl/Shutterstock
Chile created this route specifically to increase tourism, so most of the roads are in good conditions. You’ll still probably want a 4WD car (And ideally a car with high clearance), however, as some of the road in the parks are dirt. But nearly all the roads on the route are paved, so with careful driving, most cars should be able to make it.
Note that some parks are not accessible via roads to the public. Corcovado National Park, Yendegaia National Park, and Melimoyu National Park are closed to the public and Isla Magadalena National Park and Kawesqar National Park are only reachable with a tour guide. Alberto Agostini National Park is water-access only.
The three sections of the route
Photo: Alberto Loyo/Shutterstock
The full route is made up of three parts: the South, Middle and North sections.
The south section of the Route of the Parks is the most popular section as most of the Chile national parks and attractions most well-known to international travelers are there, like Los Glaciares National Park, Perito Moreno Glacier, the towers of Torres del Paine, and El Chaltén. It’s a great place to go if you want to see some of the most dramatic landscapes in Patagonia. It is also ideal for hiking and biking, and offers access to the southernmost islands of Patagonia, making it the best basecamp for visiting penguin colonies, whale watching, and potentially the wildest weather. It’s also the easiest to reach as the airport in Punta Arenas is the second-largest in the country. It’s usually called the Magallanes Region.
Photo: Amalia S./Shutterstock
The middle section provides an excellent choice for exploring the less popular parts of Patagonia. Visitors can choose from a variety of activities such as trekking, fishing, and horseback riding. This section is generally considered to be between Puerto Natales (near Torres del Paine) and Puerto Yungay. It’s called the Aysén Region and is where the bulk of the communities and parks are — but it’s harder to reach, with no major airports in the area (though you can fly to Puerto Natales). A lot of travel is by boat in this region. It’s a little less popular than the south section, but still quite popular among tourists.
The northern section offers visitors an opportunity to see both coastal and mountainous landscapes, with unique wildlife and vegetation. This is also where most of the deserts and dryer regions are, and these parks tend to be more accessible in the winter. It’s called the Los Lagos Region and is also known for hundreds of hot springs, as the country is geologically active.
Shorter itineraries for Chile national park roadtrips
A hanging glacier in Queulat National Park. Photo: Alberto Loyo/Shutterstock
If you have at least a week, you can do shorter itineraries recommended by the Route of the Parks organizers.
Los Lagos: one weekIn the north section, you can connect Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park, Corcovado National Park, and Queulat National Park in one week, covering 262 miles in the process. It’s only about 10 hours of total driving time, so it leaves you plenty of free time to explore the Chile national parks in this area. Don’t miss the thermal baths near Pumalín Park or the hanging glaciers at Queulat. Corcovado National Park is closed to the public, but you’ll want to stop as you drive past it to see if you can get a view of the massive Corcovado Volcano.
Aysén: 11 daysIf you have more than a week, consider this wildlife-heavy trip through Parque Nacional Cerro Castillo, Laguna San Rafael National Park, Patagonia National Park, and Bernardo O’Higgins National Park. It covers nearly 900 miles and offers opportunities for multi-day hikes, glacier trekking, and whitewater rafting, among others. Plan to spend the most time in Patagonia National Park, and don’t forget to leave a day on either end for travel as the major airport nearby (Balmaceda Airport) is a small, domestic-only airport, so you’ll have to stop in another city before connecting. Much of the travel is by ferry and gas stations are sometimes few and far between.
Magallanes: one weekSee Chile’s southernmost national parks on a one-week trip near the Tierra del Fuego region, hitting Pali Aike National Park and Parque Nacional Yendegaia. This is a trip you’ll want to do in the summer as winter weather is unimaginably intense. It covers 700 miles and starts and ends in Puerto Arenas, which makes it the easiest section to reach. It also crosses the famous Strait of Magellan and offers the chance to spot penguins at Pingüino Rey Park (which requires advanced reservations).
Lodging and towns
Photo: Remota Lodge
The route passes not just 17 national parks and dozens more reserves and local parks, but also nearly two dozen towns, so you have no end of hotel options. You can also camp in many of the parks, and some of the more popular parks (like Torres del Paine and Queulat National Park) have glamping and cabin rentals. There are so many options that it’s best to dial in your hotels after you’ve looked at the route and figured out what communities you’ll be passing through, rather than trying to plan the trip around certain hotels.
The exceptions are around Puerto Mott and Puerto Natales, both of which have some of the best eco-lodges in the world. In Puerto Natales, look at Remota Lodge and Awasi Patagonia, both of which offer sustainable, architecturally stunning accommodations and full menus of adventure activities around the region. In Puerto Mott, consider ending your trip at Hotel Mari Mari, a luxe eco-resort on the coast about 50 miles from the town.
Do you need to rent a car?
Photo: Dmitry Pichugin/Shutterstock
If you’re roadtripping between Chile national parks on your own, then yes, you need a car. Fortunately, renting a car in Patagonia is easy and most of the major towns along the route have car-rental facilities. You can rent cars in Puerto Montt (the northernmost point), Punta Arenas (the southernmost point), or in larger towns along the route like Coyhaique, Balmaceda, and Puerto Natales. You can also rent cars at most airports.
But the good news is that you don’t need to rent a car if you don’t want to. There are dozens of professional tour companies that offer everything from self-guided tours where the company handles the logistics to luxury private trips to multi-week birding trips to quick overnight trips to photograph pumas and stay at a luxe eco-camp. Tourism is huge for this region and you can do as little planning as you’d like.
How to plan a trip to Pakistan
For much of the past two decades, Pakistan was hardly thought of as a tourist destination. Though the mountain-rich South Asian nation had once been an integral part of the Hippie Trail, international travel slowed to trickle in the early 2000s. But the tourism department has been completely overhauled under Prime Minister Imran Khan’s government. The country saw a 70 percent increase in foreign tourist arrivals between 2017-2018, according to Middle Eastern news outlet Gulf News. The country’s record-high peaks, lush valleys, and seemingly endless amount of ancient historical sites could make it a top destination for adventure travel in the coming years. Incredible as it is, information still remains scarce in the wake of the rise in tourism and visa changes that have occurred in the past few years. It’s important to have a basic understanding of how travel and local customs work within the Islamic republic, starting with how to get that visa. Here are 15 things Pakistan travel requirements and tips you need to know before visiting.
1. You can now easily obtain a Pakistan travel visa onlinePrior to 2019, getting your hands on a Pakistani visa was no easy feat. The fee was $292 for a 30-day stay, and you could only acquire it by mailing your passport and documents to your nearest embassy. The introduction of the e-Visa system this past April changed all of that. Now Americans (and citizens of over 170 other countries) can apply for their Pakistan tourist visa online, often with only confirmation of a hotel booking and an itinerary instead of the previously mandated LOI (letter of invitation).
US citizens pay $60 for a single-entry visa that’s valid for less than one year, $90 for a visa valid one year, and $120 for a visa that is valid for up to five years. Note that there may be a $99 processing fee on top of visa costs. Travelers can also choose to apply for a “paper” visa by mailing in their passport and documents to their local Pakistani embassy — all fees are the same regardless of which path you choose. To apply for the e-Visa, visit Pakistan’s Official Visa Portal. Processing times are said to be between seven and 10 days on the web from three to four weeks for mail-in applications.
2. Independent travel is easier than it might seem
Photo: SAKhanPhotography/Shutterstock
Along with the major updates in the visa department, Pakistan has also made independent travel easier. Gone are the days when foreigners were prohibited from visiting many a valley, and good riddance to the forced security guards that used to be imposed.
Travelers to Pakistan can now travel freely throughout much of the country without the need for the infamous NOC (no-objection certificate.) Though operators are plentiful in number these days, being on a tour is not a requirement to travel to Pakistan — backpackers and other independent travelers are free to roam with only a few exceptions. Currently, restrictions remain within the province of Balochistan, the former FATA region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and various spots along the Pak-India Border, including Neelum Valley in Azad Kashmir. Do keep in mind that such restrictions can change, so it’s best to check with government offices and/or with other tourists before heading out to such places. Both the US and UK governments post updated security warnings and notices of restrictions. Currently, Balochistan has a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory from the US government due to an increased threat of terrorism.
If you wish to use a tour operator for planning, transportation, lodging, and activities, Intrepid Travel recently launched a Pakistan tour that dives into the country’s Karakoram Mountains, Islamabad and Lahore, and plenty of history and food.
3. Many parts of Pakistan are safe, friendly, and welcomingThough political and economic turmoil is active in the country, the World Crime Index now ranks the Pakistani city of Lahore, in the Punjab province, as safer than Chicago, Paris, and Berlin. Security forces have worked to make cities and even remote areas safer for residents and visitors.
In particular, both Lahore and the country’s biggest city, Karachi, have seen safety improve, though keeping an eye on the news and state travel advisories is encouraged. The province of Balochistan sees occasional terrorist threats. Parts of Azad Kashmir along the LOC (line of control) with India and the former FATA region of KPK see skirmishes primarily between those two countries. Consequently, the government currently prohibits foreign travelers from traveling in those regions as a safety precaution.
In general, when visiting Pakistan, apply the same protocols you would in other countries regarding holding on to your belongings and not walking alone at night, especially if you’re solo. Keep your passport and other valuables on your body and protected at all times. Since Pakistan is a predominantly Sunni Islamic country, gatherings of religious minorities such as Sufis and Shias have been targeted in the past, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should avoid them at all costs. Doing your research about places and celebrations before attending, dressing in local fashion, and attending with a Pakistani friend are great ways to smartly and safely attend a variety of cultural events.
4. When traveling in Pakistan, ground transportation are far cheaper than planes
Photo: Aaftab Sheikh/Shutterstock
Pakistan is massive, and distances are vast. Traveling from the capital city of Islamabad to mountainous Gilgit-Baltistan takes over 16 hours by bus, and reaching the Southern port city of Karachi takes even longer. Nevertheless, wheels are your best bet for exploring the country. Not only are domestic flights pricier — often exceeding $100 each way — but many remote and scenic places in Pakistan are only accessible by Jeeps. For those with wider budgets, hiring a car and a driver is easy to do, but the cheapest way to get around Pakistan is by going local. Shared jeeps and minivans are the vehicles of choice for more remote regions, and large coach buses operate between major cities.
Some major car rental companies like Hertz offer chauffeur-driven vehicles. Bus operators Daewoo and Faisal Movers offer five-star bus travel comforts at very affordable prices all over the country. A ticket from Lahore to Pakistan will run you 4,500 Pakistani rupees, or about $63. To research or book bus travel, you can visit Bookaru. You can also inquire with your lodging for information and advice on local transportation. Joining in on shared transport involves simply showing up before it’s filled up, and a concierge can direct you towards pickup spots. while the comfy Western-style buses can be reserved with a phone call or booking on each respective website.
Inside major cities, Uber and the local app Careem will do. Fares are cheap compared to Uber prices in the West, though you can cut it even cheaper by hailing a rickshaw.
5. There’s no need to wear anything other than a shalwar khameezThe shalwar khameez might be the most comfortable outfit on the planet. Think loose, lightweight pants accompanied by a long dress-like shirt, along with a shawl known as a dupatta for ladies. The shalwar khameez is worn by almost all Pakistanis — even in the more liberal big cities, it’s still the most predominant outfit choice.
Though there is no official dress code for tourists, Pakistan is a conservative country, and it’s essential to respect cultural norms. There’s no better way to do so than by getting yourself a shalwar khameez. Upon arriving in Pakistan, you can easily acquire a shalwar khameez at a local market. Though ready-made options do exist, the best way to obtain one is to visit a local vendor. You’ll first pick out a fabric of your choosing (linen or cotton are best to combat the country’s extreme heat — summer temperatures routinely exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit) and then have it sewn by a tailor. Ladies, keep in mind that you can request pockets to be sewn into yours.
A three-piece suit consisting of the shalwar (pants), khameez (long shirt), and dupatta (matching shawl) will go for about 1,200-2,000 rupees ($7-13) depending on the fabric you choose. Men’s’ two-piece suits (sans the dupatta) cost about the same price. Though covering one’s head as a female isn’t required in Pakistan, having a dupatta handy is always a good idea as they are mandatory for entering mosques. It’s also nice to have the option in more conservative areas of the country, such as Swat Valley in KPK, where all local women will be fully covered up.
6. For Pakistanis, hospitality is a way of life
Photo: khlongwangchao/Shutterstock
It’s common to hear about “friendly people” when listening to a description of a foreign country, but it must be noted that Pakistanis truly take hospitality to another level. It’s deeply ingrained in societal values that guests are a gift from Allah and must be treated as such. Don’t be surprised when, after a short conversation with someone you’ve just met, you’re invited into families’ homes for a full meal. Equally common is that these people you’ve just met will insist upon giving you a place to sleep. Travelers often report having a difficult time paying for things in Pakistan, as locals in Pakistani cities and at historical sites go above and beyond to make tourists feel welcome.
Even if payment is being staunchly refused, try to give something anyway, and trust that it will be appreciated. Though Pakistani hospitality is boundless no matter where you turn, venturing to the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) will be sure to take things to an entirely new level. KPK is home to the Pashtuns, an ethnic group that follows the code of Pashtunwali, an ancient self-governing code that dominates all aspects of life. One of the best-known tenets of the social code here is Melmastia — providing hospitality and asylum to all guests in need of it. As such, the Pashtuns might be the most hospitable people in all of Pakistan, though you’ll have to visit KPK to make that determination yourself.
7. English is almost everywhere, but an Urdu dictionary is worth packingDue to Britain’s prior colonization of Pakistan during the rule of its Indian Empire, English is spoken almost everywhere. That doesn’t mean it should be expected, though. Pakistan gained Independence in 1947, and while English is taught in public schools and universities, it will become less common as you head out toward more remote areas. Carrying around an Urdu-English Phonetic dictionary could be useful, though communication is still very possible without a common vocabulary. Pakistan travel generally involves interacting with Urdu, even if you don’t speak or understand it, so a few basic phrases will help.
While Urdu is Pakistan’s national language, dozens of other regional tongues are spoken throughout the country, and in certain areas, many people don’t even speak Urdu. In the cities of Peshawar and Mingora, Pashto reigns supreme. In Kalam Valley, a section of the larger Swat Valley, Gowri is spoken. In total, nearly 75 languages can be heard throughout the country, though many of them are similar in some way to Urdu. Dictionaries also exist for some of these, so make sure to grab a phonetic one before you land.
8. There are multiple borders open for overland entry into Pakistan
Photo: Lukas Bischoff Photograph/Shutterstock
It is possible to fly into Pakistan through one of its major international airports in Lahore, Karachi, or Islamabad, but all visas also permit overland entry. You can cross the border into Pakistan at a few different points. The Wagah Border that connects Pakistan’s Lahore with India’s Amritsar is a popular and easy border to cross over. Tensions might remain high between the two countries, but border officials on both sides of the aisle don’t pass that on to overlanders. To head into Lahore after being stamped into Pakistan, you can take a taxi for about $13. The Pakistan-China border at the Khunjerab Pass is also open to tourists.
9. Getting a local SIM card is a mustOne of the first things you should do when you arrive in Pakistan is acquire a local SIM card. Pakistan is rife with providers, and these days coverage is vast — even many remote regions have access to 2G signal.
As a foreigner, SIM cards can only be obtained either at the airport — where they are sure to be overpriced — or at a franchise store. The major providers include ZONG, Telenor, Jazz, and SCOM. Coverage varies by region and provider, so your best practice is to buy a few as it’s not a problem to have multiple SIM cards. Pakistani nationals are allowed to have up to five activated at a time.
As a rule of thumb, ZONG 3G/4G will work best in Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Peshawar, Mingora, and Swat Valley. Meanwhile, Telenor works best in the Chitral District. Jazz works in many of the same places as the rest but happens to be the only functioning provider in the small town of Thall in Dir District. And then there’s SCOM — a government-operated company that functions exclusively in Gilgit-Baltistan.
SIM cards and data packages are significantly more expensive for foreigners than for locals, and ZONG especially has a large discrepancy. A three-month plan costs about $10 a month for 20 GB of data, but foreigners are currently only able to purchase a “postpaid plan.” If you stay in the country for longer than 30 days, keep in mind that you need to go into a Zong store and pay your bill again or risk your services being shut off. Pakistan also currently requires foreigners to register their devices when using a local SIM for more than 60 days. You’ll likely get a text message about this. Travelers have had their numbers blocked for failure to register, so don’t forget.
10. Weather is variable throughout the country, so when you should visit depends on where you want to go
Photo: khlongwangchao/Shutterstock
Pakistan’s mountainous Northern Areas see heavy snow and freezing temperatures come winter. Many major roads and high-altitude passes also become blocked and inaccessible. To see the mountains at their best, your window of opportunity is roughly from April to early November. Cherry blossoms will be in bloom for much of April, and fall colors come out to play in mid- to late October.
The rest of the country, including the Punjab and Sindh provinces, is most pleasant during the opposite time frame, November to April, due to extreme heat in summer. January sees the coolest weather, with temperatures sitting in the 60s-70s Fahrenheit throughout the day and dipping into the 50s at night. Keep in mind that Sindh and Punjab are excessively hot in the summers, with temperatures regularly exceeding 100 degrees. It’s still possible to explore such regions then, but don’t count on it being comfortable.
11. Keep multiple copies of your passport with you when traveling from place to placeThere are quite a few vehicle checkpoints along the highways in Pakistan, though not so many that it will be too bothersome. The 17-hour drive from Islamabad to Gilgit City will pass through 12 such checkpoints. On long drives such as this, it’s best to give a copy of your passport to the driver before you take off to avoid being woken up during the night. Passport copies are required in other places as well, such as when traveling through Swat Valley or when entering the Chitral district. Though you might not always be stopped — especially if you’re traveling in local transport — it’s always better to have them than not.
12. Be ready to eat delicious Pakistani food
Photo: Naveed Ashraf/Shutterstock
Pakistan is going to earn your praise at the dinner table, guaranteed. Delicious combinations of juicy, flavorful meats and slices of crispy naan (a fluffy, leavened bread) await throughout the country, including many unique specialties depending on the region. Pakistani food is rich and meaty, and distinctly different from that of its neighbor India. When visiting Lahore, paaye (a stew of goat hooves), halwa puri (fluffy bread paired with a sweet confectionary), and chapli kebab (spicy mutton patties) are must-eats. Freshly caught trout is a specialty in the Ghizer District, and Peshawar is known for its one-of-a-kind dumba karahi — a fatty, flavorful dish made with meat from the butt of a sheep.
As great as it may be, food in Pakistan can sometimes affect sensitive stomachs. Activated charcoal is known to be helpful for cases of traveler’s diarrhea, and if things persist past a day or so, antibiotics can be found in the local pharmacies, which are everywhere in the bigger cities.
13. Chai is a way of life — be prepared to get hookedPerhaps you won’t drown, but you’ll certainly be filled to the brim with the stuff. Pakistanis drink chai — a masala milk tea — constantly throughout the day. Steaming cups are sipped on the street during lunch breaks, at any and all types of meetings, and of course, it is served as an offering to guests. When staying in someone’s home or hotel, it’s very likely chai will be poured before you even sit down. Definitely accept — it would be rude not to.
In certain parts of Northern Pakistan including Chitral and Ghizer, salt is added to tea instead of sugar. This makes for quite a unique pairing, one that locals swear helps them keep warm in cold temperatures.
Small cups of this liquid deliciousness often go for cents in street-side stalls, and it would truly be a rarity to get through a day in the country without drinking any. Even if you find yourself getting sick of it while you’re traveling, don’t be surprised when you find yourself missing Pakistan’s favorite beverage when you leave.
14. Pakistan has a tourist trail, but get off of it for the best experience
Photo: shahsoft/Shutterstock
Most Pakistan itineraries stick to Lahore, Islamabad, and Hunza Valley. Though all such places are beautiful and worth visiting, the country is big — and travel to Pakistan can go much deeper. KPK, which includes the idyllic, lush green forests and the transparent frosty rivers of Swat Valley, is generally safe these days and is regularly referred to as the “Switzerland of Asia.” Unexplored valleys and villages can be found in Upper Chitral, as much of it is now open to foreign tourists.
Moreover, the entirety of Sindh in South Pakistan is often overlooked in favor of the Northern Areas. If time (and boiling temperatures) aren’t an issue, you’ll be met with a myriad of cultures, exquisitely decorated shrines, and centuries-old remains all throughout the province. Pakistan’s Ghizer District is another easy and beautiful way to get “off the beaten track” — the peaceful valleys of Yasin and Phander are home to the bluest of lakes, a peaceful ambiance, and very few (if any) other tourists.
15. Respect the local culture no matter whatPakistanis are deeply ingrained in tradition, and the country as a whole is a conservative place. While metros like Lahore and Islamabad continue to westernize, the majority of the nation sticks to its roots. As an Islamic Republic, over 97 percent of the country is Muslim. In conservative areas, many women cover up almost fully with long shawls or, in some cases, burqas. Arranged marriages are by far the most common, though this is changing a bit amongst liberal city-dwellers. In certain places, women may not be able to meet with unrelated males. If you’re a foreign guy, don’t take offense to this, it’s simply a cultural norm.
It is far more common to see men on the streets than women, though this isn’t a hard rule and something that varies from locale to locale. It’s also important to note that Pakistan is officially a dry country, though this rule isn’t imposed on foreigners. Though many aspects of Pakistani culture may seem drastically different from life in Europe or North America, as travelers, culture is best to be enjoyed, appreciated, and respected — not judged. As long as you enter Pakistan with an open mind and an empty stomach, you’re guaranteed to have the time of your life.
The Best LGBTQ+ Bars in Nashville
Nashville might not immediately conjure images of queer life. This is Music City — a party town famous for its honky-tonk style and country music stars; built around an art form that historically celebrates a straight, Christian crew of boot scooters. And yet queer culture here is more vibrant than Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors, with a patchwork of gay bars, clubs, and cafes around town and a history dating back nearly a century.
The city’s first two recorded gay bars — the Jungle and Juanita’s — opened in Downtown Nashville in the 1950s, where they served as havens for LGBTQ+ Nashvillians until the early 1980s. A historical marker on Commerce Street and 7th Avenue memorializes their now-demolished buildings.
Today, you’ll find most LGBTQ+ establishments split between artsy East Nashville and the 1500 block of Church Street, located north of Music Row. A few of the city’s low-key queer haunts are further afield, so plan on driving or taking a ride share if you want to see them all. Each offers something unique — be it Cheers-style camaraderie or high-level drag — making it worth exploring as much of the scene as possible. These are seven spots you won’t want to miss.
Canvas
Photo: Maksym Fesenko/Shutterstock
On October 31st, Canvas bid adieu to Church Street, where the quintessential queer space served an eclectic crew of Nashville’s alphabet mafia for the past 11 years. The new East Nashville location, which opened in mid-November, isn’t the divey dream it once was, but a sleeker spot with an elevated cocktail menu and Southern-style kitchen fare. If you’re looking for a showstopping sipper, order the smoked old fashion — it’s a flame-soaked spectacle far from the simple vodka-soda-style drinks slung at other queer bars in the city. For food, try the pulled pork tacos, fried chicken sliders, or fries smothered in nacho cheese, barbecue sauce, and sour cream. After knocking back a couple cocktails, you’ll be craving the carbs.
Address: 1105 Fatherland St, Nashville, TN 37206
Play Dance BarIf Nashville’s gay bars were Zodiac signs, Play would be a Gemini: the building connects two spacious rooms that feel like completely different bars. On one side, a non-stop roulette of drag queens lip sync to everything from Taylor Swift’s latest anthem to Gretchen Wilson’s Redneck Woman (a head-bobbing crowd-pleaser). On the other side, a thumping dance floor lures locals with its non-stop pulse of hip-hop and pop. The crowd skews young (Play is an 18+ establishment), and weekends welcome a mixed bag of LGBTQ+ folks and allies, who bump and belt to Lil Nas X and Beyoncé with abandon. The bar’s $15 cash-only weekend cover might seem steep, but it’s worth it — you won’t find buzzier crowds on Saturday night.
Play is one of three LGBTQ+ businesses on Church Street owned by the same team, which include Tribe and Suzy Wong’s House of Yum, a weekends-only drag brunch bonanza where giggling bachelorette parties often rule the roost.
Address: 1519 Church St, Nashville, TN 37203
TribeTribe is a gulp-and-gab gay bar where groups gather to chat on the three-tiered outdoor deck, shoot rounds of pool, or pregame before hitting Play’s dance floor, conveniently located next door. This is also the best place to imbibe on weekend afternoons. The bar opens at 12:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday, and when hunger calls, you can chow down on a flatbread or burger from the kitchen. To survey the scene from above, head to the upper-level porch. The view of Hustler Hollywood (a sex shop sporting a neon sign) might seem like sacrilege on a street named “Church,” but the breezes up here are heaven on a hot summer’s night.
Address: 1515 Church St, Nashville, TN 37203
Trax
Photo: Trax
Trax doesn’t look like anything special: it’s housed in a dingy brick building on Bianca Paige Way (named for the late local drag icon and HIV/AIDS activist) and far removed from the city’s other gay bars. Still, this dive overflows with queer Nashvillian charm. On a given evening, the crowd can range from cowboy-booted bears and twinkle-eyed Vanderbilt grads to off-duty drag queens and leather-loving daddies; Sunday often feels like a family reunion for Nashville’s LGBTQ Black community. Join the gang by hopping into a soul-infused electric slide on the super-teeny dance floor, clinking beer cans around the U-shaped bar, or taking a smoke break on the expansive back deck. There aren’t any frills, and that’s the best part: the perpetually unpretentious vibe makes this spot sparkle. This is also the gay go-to for last-call libations. Unlike most bars, which close at 2:00 AM, Trax serves heavy pours until 3:30 AM.
Address: 1501 Ensley Blvd, Nashville, TN 37210
Lipstick LoungeThis cheery East Nashville mainstay sticks out for all the right reasons. In a residential area replete with beige houses, the Lipstick Lounge pops with cherry-red awnings and a lavender paint job. Most importantly, this is the city’s first and only lesbian bar, serving the entire queer community since 2002. Framed paintings of Marlene Deitrich and other famous queer women grace the downstairs bar, where regulars gather for nightly karaoke and rowdy weekend brunches. If off-key crooners covering Patsy Cline sounds like torture, don’t worry — you can beat the racket on the side patio or head upstairs to the Upper Lip, a relaxed cigar bar-and-cocktail lounge open Thursday through Sunday.
Unless you’re staying in East Nashville, you’ll likely need a car to get here, but once you’ve arrived, you won’t need to leave. The Lipstick Lounge knows how to treat a lady — with fried pickles, quesadillas, corn dogs, and a menu of other pub grub classics that ensures everyone is happy and well-fed.
Address: 1400 Woodland St #1939, Nashville, TN 37206
Pecker’s Bar and GrillPecker’s is big — with 2500 square feet of outdoor space and a main room large enough for Friday’s line-dance jamborees — but the locals make this roadhouse-style watering hole feel cozy. Friendly bartenders are quick to strike up conversations, and regulars are always at-the-ready with a smile. Check out the locally-made queer art adorning the walls before heading outside to bask in the sun’s glow during happy hour. Most folks come here around supper time to take advantage of the kitchen’s greasy-grub menu, or for special events like bingo and the occasional corn hole tournament. Don’t expect an all-night rager — this is an all-are-welcome establishment for chatting and chillaxing.
Address: 237 Hermitage Ave, Nashville, TN 37210
D’Andrews Bakery and Cafe
Photo: D’Andrews Bakery and Cafe
If you’re looking for a morning pick-me-up near Broadway’s neon lights, head to this gay-owned bakery and coffee shop run by Nashville native David Andrews. The sunny sweets store isn’t a ROY-G-BIV mecca but an LGBTQ+ third space separate from bar culture, where queer folks can congregate without judgment. Choose a treat from the display case (the fudgy Jack Daniels cake is a decadent delight), order a breakfast sandwich on fresh focaccia, and wash it down with an espresso or nitro cold brew. A glass divider separating the kitchen from the dining hall means you can watch Andrews baking buttery biscuits and made-to-order eggs for his adoring customers.
Address: 555 Church St, Nashville, TN 37219
Honorable mentionsMost of Nashville’s gay bars don’t pick up steam until the weekend, but there are plenty of queer-friendly establishments worth checking out while waiting for the fun to begin. Diskin Cider, the city’s first craft cidery, occasionally serves up drag brunch for $25 a head, which includes the show and a family-style meal. For a sit-down dinner or boozy brunch, try the Mockingbird, a gay-owned restaurant dishing global plates infused with Nashville style. Then there’s White Limozeen, a Dolly Parton-themed bar atop the Graduate Hotel, where you can sip fruity cocktails, admire the pretty-in-pink decor, and snap pictures in front of a larger-than-life chicken-wire sculpture of the gay icon herself. It’s the closest you can get to Dollywood, Parton’s camp-tastic theme park, without leaving Music City.
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