Matador Network's Blog, page 430
August 16, 2022
These Florence, Italy, Airbnbs Put You Close To the Duomo and the Best of the City
The beautiful city of Florence is home to historical architecture and vibrant modern social spaces. Whether you’re spending a day in the city or staying a week, Florence is filled with so much rich culture and activities for you to do and see that you’ll wish you’d planned to stay longer. Put yourself right in the center of it all by staying at one of these stunning Florence Airbnb vacation rentals.
Taking a trip to Italy? Check out Matador’s Italy accommodations guides:The 11 dreamiest Airbnbs in ItalyThese dreamy Amalfi Coast Airbnbs are the perfect seaside escapeThis Rome Airbnb’s windows open up to Trevi FountainThe Best Airbnbs Near Lake Como To Live Out Your Italian Dream
We hope you love the Airbnb Fayetteville, Arkansas, vacation rentals 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.
Florence Italy Airbnbs with a terraceFlorence Italy Airbnbs near DuomoFlorence Italy Airbnbs near a train stationFlorence Italy Airbnbs with a terraceLuxury penthouse in a medieval tower
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Sit back and relax at this luxury Airbnb in Florence. The penthouse is located on the sixth and seventh floors of a unique medieval tower. It features a spacious open living room, a full kitchen, and bedrooms. From the penthouse, you’ll have panoramic views of the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, Orsanmichele, Forte Belvedere, and San Miniato al Monte.
Four guests, two bedroom
Price: $310 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Check out this 322-square-foot studio flat right in the heart of the city’s main tourist attractions. This cozy studio is on the first floor of a historical building right next to the Duomo of Firenze. The studio apartment features a kitchen, bed, dining area, and a private terrace with outdoor seating.
Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $153 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This Florence Airbnb with a terrace could be the perfect place for your Italy trip as the apartment is right in the center of town. This trendy Italian apartment is in a classically designed Florence building that represents the spirit of the city — straight down to the terrace, which is perfect for an afternoon drink. The apartment has a lovely living room, a fully equipped kitchen with all needed appliances, two bedrooms with full bathrooms, and of course, a terrace on which to relax and have a glass of wine.
Four guests, two bedroom
Price: $331 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
If you’re looking for an Airbnb in Florence with a dose of renaissance style, then this apartment is for you. This renaissance apartment has many trinkets and treasures that embody the best of the city’s history, including artfully decorated living and cooking spaces that burst with color. The apartment features a colorful living room with an indoor fireplace, a day bed, and a TV, there is a full kitchen with florentine gothic decoration, a full bedroom, and two full bathrooms. This apartment is in the historic center of Florence, within walking distance of major attractions, and has views of the Duomo.
Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $214 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
If you want to get up close and personal with the Duomo, check out this Airbnb in Florence with amazing views of the city’s famous attraction. This chic apartment is in the heart of the city and has a spacious living room, a full kitchen, two spacious bedrooms, and two full bathrooms, but the gem of the apartment is the stunning outdoor space. The apartment’s outdoor space has a seating area with front-row views of the Duomo.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $211 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This Airbnb near the Duomo is the perfect location for visitors looking to visit all popular tourist attractions. This modern apartment is on the most famous street of Florence, a five-minute walk to the Duomo, and it features two double bedrooms, a living room with a sofa bed, a kitchen, and one bathroom. A night out on the town is not too far away as the apartment is near shops, restaurants, and the historic center of Florence.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $150 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This cozy renovated apartment is the perfect space for couples or solo travelers. The apartment has a large loft with a bedroom, a living room with a sofa bed, a spacious bathroom, and a well-equipped kitchen. There is a private terrace with a gorgeous view of the Duomo.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $210 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Here is an Airbnb in Florence near the train station, one that will give you the privacy and peace you need but without sacrificing convenience. This modern apartment is on the third floor and has an open and bright living area, a fully equipped kitchen, a lovely private bedroom, and a spacious private balcony. This apartment is centrally located and close to Santa Maria Novella.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $116 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Indulge yourself in this stunning Airbnb Florence apartment with an open and bright living area offering views of the piazza. Relax with the contemporary finishes and the antiques from the city’s markets. Cook up a meal in the full kitchen or take a night on the town as you’re located in the heart of the historic downtown area with a short walking distance to cafes, shops, and restaurants.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $146 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This recently restored apartment features two bedrooms with double beds, a spacious living room area with a sofa bed, a kitchen, and a full bathroom. This apartment is in the historic center near the Piazza Santa Maria Novella, the train station, and more popular Florence attraction. 
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $247 per night
7 Places To Safely See Wild Seals and Sea Lions in San Diego
San Diego’s coastal coves are teeming with sea lions and seals. They roll in the shallows, spar and play in the surf, and nurse pups on the shore to the delight of visitors.
However, their abundance draws major predators close to shore as well. It’s not unusual for juvenile great white sharks to cruise through the coastal waters looking for fish and larger prey, including the San Diego sea lions and seals. It makes for exciting close encounters for kayakers, surfers, snorkelers, and paddleboarders, but is also a reminder that the San Diego sea lions are part of a greater food web. It’s incredibly important for visitors not to interrupt the animals’ natural behaviors, both for their own safety and the protection of the natural balance.
Seals vs. Sea Lions around San Diego
A harbor seal. Photo: KPG-Payless/Shutterstock
It’s easy to see the differences between seals and sea lions.
Sea lions have small, external ear flaps and can ‘walk’ short distances on land. Seals are smaller, and while they’re agile in the sea, they tend to flop around awkwardly on shore. California sea lions are generally browner in color, while harbor seals are spotted. Both seals and sea lions are flourishing in San Diego and are generally easy to spot from shore or on the water.
These gentle giants appear docile and cute, so getting close is tempting. However, as recent viral videos attest, they are unpredictable – they’re wild animals, after all. Large male sea lions will compete for access to potential mates, barking incessantly, fighting on beaches, and flailing their large bodies towards each other, not minding who gets in the way.
Rules about San Diego sea lion and seal viewingSeals, sea lions, and other marine mammals are protected by federal law (the US Marine Mammal Protection Act, or MMPA) and local laws in California. Most areas where they live have posted warnings and viewing guidelines. The county will rope off pupping areas and diligently remind observers to keep at least 50 feet away from all animals. Seal enthusiasts are often on hand at the most popular viewing sites and happily share information with visitors – or offer it if you start misbehaving.
Penalties for inappropriate behavior around sea lions can be quite severe, according to the MMPA, including jail time and fines of more than $11,000. Any human actions that “disrupt behavioral patterns, including but not limited to migration, breathing, nursing, breeding, feeding, or sheltering,” can be violations, so make sure you read up on appropriate behavior first. In general, humans are too close if the wild animals are reacting in any way to their presence.
The best time to see sea lions and seals
A seal and pup in San Diego County. Photo: San Diego Tourism Authority
Sea lions and harbor seals are in San Diego year-round to breed and “haul out” – a term for when pinnipeds like seals crawl onto the beach to rest. Pupping (birthing) season begins in December and ends in mid-May, so it’s an ideal time to see babies (though not all baby seals make it to adulthood).
In the summer, seals are likely to be out feeding mid-day, so the best times to observe them from land are early in the morning or late in the afternoons. After chasing their meals, seals and sea lions tend to rest onshore.
Where to see wild seals and sea lions in San DiegoChildren’s Pool Beach
Photo: Steve Minkler/Shutterstock
La Jolla Cove is truly sea lion central in San Diego. It’s a popular viewing spot and does get crowded.
The best spot for viewing seals is Children’s Pool Beach. The sheltered area was originally created for family recreation a century ago, but over the years, seal moms decided it was a perfect spot for their young pups, too. Controversies over who should have priority have kept the little beach in the headlines. Guests here should pay attention to signage and updates at the lifeguard station and keep their distance from the animals.
Fortunately, visitors don’t need to be on the beach to watch the animals. They’re usually visible from walking along the curved breakwater above the water line.
Shell Beach and Boomer’s Point
Photo: Rosamar/Shutterstock
North of Children’s Pool Beach is a narrow swath of sand called Shell Beach, often dotted with dozing sea lions. But it’s not the only nearby spot. Visitors can walk further north to Boomer’s Point, where a sidewalk winds along the shoreline’s tidal rock formations where sea lions haul out to warm in the sun. You’ll probably hear the pelicans and cormorants that sit nearby and give La Jolla’s air a noticeably ‘fragrant’ odor when the weather’s dry and hot.
Clam Cave
Photo: Michael J Magee/Shutterstock
This ocean around La Jolla is part of the La Jolla Underwater Park and is a perfect spot for snorkeling close to brightly colored Garibaldi (California’s state fish) as they glide through seagrasses. It’s also a good spot to see sea lions underwater occasionally. The youngest are playful and may approach people, but snorkelers should maintain safe distances from adult animals busy looking for food and mates.
However, one of the places with the highest chances of spotting San Diego’s sea lions within the reserve is Clam Cave, one of the animals’ favorite swim-throughs. It’s visible from land to visitors from the path along Coast Blvd. It’s an excellent place to watch sea lions catapult their bulk out of the water and onto rocky ledges to loll in the sun between swims.
Sunny Jim’s Cave
Photo: San Diego Tourism Authority
German engineer Gustav Shultz took two years to carve the Sunny Jim cave more than a century ago and rumors of smugglers using the stairway between the water and the road made the spot famous. Today, the tourist attraction lures visitors in to walk down the steep stairs to the opening above lapping waves. At the bottom of the stairway, there’s a fine view of the La Jolla shoreline, and you can hear – and sometimes see – male sea lions through the passage.
It costs $10 for adults and $6 for children to take the 20-minute cave tour. However, the topside viewing platforms and trails outside the cave are free and open to all.
San Diego Harbor near Point Loma
Photo: Anthoney Quebedeaux/Shutterstock
The sparkling downtown San Diego skyline is loveliest when seen from the water, and many local companies offer speed boats, harbor cruises, and winter whale-watching tours. But to have the best chance of spotting the San Diego sea lions and seals, opt for a cruise that sails between the Navy base on Coronado Island and the Point Loma peninsula, where the waters are full of California sea lions. They often lounge on the buoys in the middle of the channel or on the boulders of the manmade breakwaters when the tide is right.
The San Diego Bait Barge
Photo: Maria Agustinho/Shutterstock
Sea lions have claimed one end of the San Diego bait barge owned by Everingham Bros. Bait Co. to sunbathe in a clump on the extended platform. Most of the time, they’re sleeping. It’s a good place to see them from a kayak, which visitors can rent from operators on nearby Shelter Island. The closest rental shop is Action Water Sports, inside the Kona Kai Resort.
Shelter Island
Photo: Dmitri Kotchetov/Shutterstock
Shelter Island is well worth a visit for its restaurants, views, and wildlife. Seal lions frequent the docks, hunting for scraps from the commercial and sport fishing boats. The best place to spot seals and sea lions from land is from the raised walkway of the new boat ramp and launch bay near Humphries.
The importance of seeing sea lions in the wild
Photo: sumikophoto/Shutterstock
Sea lions and seals are a key part of San Diego’s ecosystem. When guests travel to certain areas to see them in the wild, it helps bring in tourism spending near those areas, which proves that wildlife viewing can be profitable for area businesses and leads to public support for marine protection.
Climate change is also a huge threat as creatures in the ocean food web like seals, sea lions, sharks, fish, and kelp are all negatively impacted by rising ocean temperatures. And an imbalance in the food web can cause predators to become more desperate for food, leading to negative human-animal interactions.
There’s nothing quite like watching a mother nurse her new pup, seeing a young sea lion venture into the water for the first time, or watching an adult male defend his breeding rights. By seeing San Diego’s sea lions and seals in person, visitors can gain a personal appreciation and connection to the animals, making it easier to understand why the cute creatures need to be protected.
Japanese Street Food Vendors Invented a New Way To Eat Octopus — but It’s Not for the Faint of Heart
T here are many delicious Japanese snacks out there to try, from matcha Kit-Kat bars to onigiri and Pocky, but all these relatively new creations pale in comparison to one of Japan’s oldest and most iconic dishes: senbei. This rice cake, which comes in a variety of fillings, is nearly 1,000 years old, but it’s still popular in Japan for a reason — and it’s worth adding to your list of must-try Japanese snacks. If you’re looking for a Japanese street food that really stands out, look for one particular version called octopus senbei. But there are many types of senbei that you can snack on during your next trip to Japan.
@foodwtf #OctopusSenbei fromTeyaki in #Bangkok #Thailand
@Foodballstylee #senbei #foodtiktok #fyp #streetfood ♬ Roxanne – Instrumental – Califa Azul
What is senbai?
Photo: chettarin/Shutterstock
Senbei are crunchy rice crackers, and this snack is one of the oldest traditional Japanese foods. This popular dish can be found in many places like supermarkets, convenience stores, and department stores all over Japan. Dating back to the Tang Dynasty, these palm-sized crackers were and still are typically served with green tea, and are sometimes served at home to welcome guests.
What is senbei made from?Octopus senbei is made by coating the raw, whole octopus in flour or starch, then baking it flat in a hot press. Some yatai (food carts or street food stalls) may not use flour and instead flatten the octopus in a hot press until it becomes flat and dry, resulting in a cracker-like texture. Octopus is a popular ingredient and appears in other treats like takoyaki (fried wheat flour balls filled with octopus) and tako su, a salad common at izakaya restaurants, where you can lots of different types of Japanese snacks and street foods. Sometimes takoyaki are also served sandwiched between two pieces of plain senbei.
Senbei traditionally began with ingredients like joshinko, or non-glutinous rice flour mixed with cooked rice, oil, and salt, but as time went on, cook began to add more seasoning, spices, and ingredients to this basic recipe.
Different types of senbei
Photo: Mirko Kuzmanovic/Shutterstock
There are many types of senbei, and they are divided into three categories. The first category is classic senbei, which are flavored with soy sauce, nori, black sesame, red pepper, and other ingredients. The second category is regional senbei that varies depending on where you are in Japan, and comes in flavors like curry and nure, a type of senbei with wet dough. There are other types of rice crackers in Japan as well. One type is called arare, small crackers flavored with soy sauce which take their name from the Japanese word for snow pellet. Another type of rice cracker is kaware, which is shaped like a tile and often decorated with colorful flowers.
You Can Now Vote for How Small Airplane Seats Are Legally Allowed To Get
Airplane seats never seem to stop shrinking. That may soon change. Earlier this month, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) opened up the issue of seat sizes to the public by asking for input on the minimum dimensions necessary for safe evacuation in the event of an emergency. A 90-day comment period officially began on August 3 and will remain open until November 1. Written comments can be submitted online, via mail or fax, or by hand or courier.
The request for public comment regarding commercial airline seat sizing has been years in the making. In 2018, Congress instructed the FAA to codify minimum seat dimensions within a year. Air traveler advocacy group FlyersRights.org has been pushing for minimum seat dimensions for even longer. USA Today quotes Paul Hudson, the group’s president, as saying: “Our estimate is that only 20 percent of the population can reasonably fit in these seats now. It’s beyond a matter of comfort, or even emergency evacuation; there are serious health and safety issues when you’re put in cramped conditions for hours on end.”
Though this month’s request for comment signals that the FAA may finally be preparing to establish a minimum seat size for commercial airplanes, the request clearly states that the determining factor is safety, rather than health or comfort. FAA rules state that an aircraft must be able to be evacuated in 90 seconds or less. The agency encourages commenters to review its 2022 cabin evacuation study before submitting feedback.
In addition to seat width, factors such as pitch, meaning the distance between rows of seats, will also be considered. Currently, the average pitch in economy class on most carriers is 30 to 31 inches, although some budget airlines have left as little as 28 inches for legroom. Seventeen inches is now standard for seat width.
It remains to be seen when or if the FAA will officially decide on minimum seat dimensions and what that might would mean for air travelers. Many people have met the agency’s invitation for feedback with skepticism that change is coming, or that future changes will be significantly favorable for passengers. But the fact remains that input is currently welcome, so if you have an opinion on airplane seat size, know that you can make your voice heard before November 1.
Why Are Flights so Expensive Right Now?
While budget travel doesn’t have to be a thing of the past, it’s hard not to wonder why it seems like all flights are so expensive right now. Travel isn’t immune to the skyrocketing inflation that’s moving at its fastest pace since 1981, in large part because of elevated, but lowering, gas prices. So unless you consider renting an electric vehicle for a road trip, transportation is pricey.
There are a lot of factors that go into more expensive flights. These are the ones most impacting the prices you’ve been seeing (and will continue to see in the short term).
Why are flights so expensive right now?Demand for travelThe ridiculous price slashes that we saw at the beginning of the pandemic are over. In 2020, TSA checkpoints saw as low as 87,000 people in one day. On August 14, 2022, 2.3 million people were recorded. On top of that, summertime demand is always high because that’s when more people are able to go on vacation.
Jet fuel pricesThe price tag on jet fuel has increased for a few reasons, though it is starting to decrease since its peak in June. The war in Ukraine has had a ripple effect on gas prices as countries put trade restrictions on oil from Russia. Demand also creates an issue. Lower demand during the pandemic that transitioned to a sharp increase in demand once restrictions started to lift has put a strain on immediately available oil supplies.
Staffing shortagesWhile the number of people wanting to fly has significantly increased, the airline industry as a whole is still working with downsized staff from the pandemic. Estimates show that there are 15 to 20 percent fewer flights than needed, according to Scott’s Cheap Flights. Flights were cut from the typical summer schedule to avoid disastrous mass delays and cancellations due to weather and staffing problems. The pilot shortage in the United States was already unsustainable before the pandemic. Now, experts expect it will take years for enough people to be trained to end the shortage.
Will plane prices go down?The good news is flight prices have already started to go down. According to The New York Times, fares fell 7.8 percent in July compared to June, and those trends are expected to continue now that summer travel is almost over. According to Hopper’s third quarter travel index, prices are expected to average $286 this month, down 25 percent from May. Once things cool down in fall and winter (minus the holiday season), prices are expected to continue to fall.
What day is the cheapest to book flights?The idea that booking on a middle-of-the-weekday will get you a better deal is somewhat of a myth. A study by CheapAir.com found that buying flights in the middle of the week only had an average difference of $1 in fare prices. However, there are other travel hacks to help you find the cheapest fares. You can get creative by checking to see if booking two one-way tickets is cheaper than booking roundtrip, or by booking cheaper tickets using hidden city fares. You can also use tools like newsletters, book directly with the airline, and check prices on travel agencies to see if you have can nab a mistake fare.
How far in advance should I book a flight in 2022?The general rule of thumb for the prime booking window is between six weeks and four months before your departure. However, this information can vary depending on where you’re trying to travel. For example, tickets to Asia are likely to be cheapest 10 months in advance, so the sooner you book, the better. However, tickets to the Caribbean and Central and South America can have cheap fares even one month before departure.
Searching for great flight deals might sound like a full-time job, but it might be worth it if you can save a significant amount of cash.
You Can Make Your Own True Jamaican Chocolate on the Island at Pure Chocolate Company
As I walked into the artisan chocolate studio at Pure Chocolate Company’s location in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, co-owner Rennae Johnson handed me a cup of chocolate tea. The traditional Jamaican drink is typically made with cocoa, spices like cinnamon, and milk (in this case coconut milk). The warm liquid is thick, rich, and just sweet enough that I don’t get saccharine overload despite quickly finishing the entire cup. Pure Chocolate’s final version is still in the works, but it’s a fitting start to an experience that highlights what local Jamaican chocolate is all about.
@foodwtf Making #chocolate from scratch at
Jamaican-born Johnson and her husband Wouter Tjeertes started Pure Chocolate in 2017. Both worked as pastry chefs at a Jamaica resort before becoming partners (in life and business), and Tjeertes spent three decades as a chocolatier and executive pastry chef across Europe and the Caribbean. When they struck out on their own with Pure Chocolate, the primary focus was on doing everything as local as possible.
The company uses local cocoa that can be traced back to a small group of farmers that it buys from directly at above-market prices. Pure Chocolate uses single-origin Criollo and Trinitario beans from the John Crow Mountains, which run adjacent to the Blue Mountains where Jamaica’s famous coffee grows. The beans are fermented and dried by hand on the island, and even the wrappers are tied to Jamaica: the art-driven labels are created by local artists like Taj Francis and Kokab Zohoori-Dossa.
Cacao originally comes from the upper section of South America (cacao refers to raw beans, while cocoa refers to the beans after they’ve been fermented and dried) and people on Jamaica have grown the plant and used cacao beans for hundreds of years — historians found evidence that a drink of hot cocoa, milk, and cinnamon has been made on the island since at least 1494. English colonists exploited the cacao farms after taking the island from the Spanish in the 1700s. Jamaican chocolate never reached the same volume as sugar or garnered as much recognition as the island’s premium coffee and rum. According to Forbes, cocoa production shrank from 2,000 tons per year in 1995 to 200 to 400 tons in 2010.
Interest is slowly coming back, however, and Johnson and Tjeertes say they hope that Pure Chocolate can be one of the catalysts to increase the awareness of the quality of Jamaican chocolate that’s made on the island. By buying direct from the source, the couple can provide a better life for farmers, ensure no child labor is used, and more sustainably source a crop that is highly impacted by climate change.
The investment makes sense: better treatment of farmers leads to better beans, Tjeertes explained. Jamaican artisan chocolate quality in large part comes from the island’s “fine or flavor” cocoa beans as opposed to “bulk” or “ordinary” beans. The International Cacao Council lists that Trinidad & Tobago, Grenada, Dominica, and Saint Lucia grow 100 percent fine or flavor cacao beans, and Jamaica is certified for 95 percent. Fine or flavor cocoa has fruity, floral, and nutty notes and most often come from Criollo or Trinitario varieties.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by PURE Chocolate Company (@purechocolatecompany)
At the Pure Chocolate location in Ocho Rios, Johnson and Tjeertes mention the farmers they work with by name as I pour chocolate into a mold with a cacao bean pattern. Fermenting and drying takes place in Spanish Town, where Johnson is from. The production of the chocolate liquor, and then that liquor into bars and other treats, happens here next to the grinders that whirred away as I finished topping my bar with dried fruit.
I packaged my chocolate that I made as soon as it cooled in the fridge. It was plenty to take home and share, though it was hard to resist the chocolates made with rum, jerk spices, matcha, and a wide variety of other things that are sold at the storefront.
Pure Chocolate’s two-hour chocolate making workshop can be booked online, and takes place at the Island Village shop in Ocho Rios. Pure Chocolate also offers virtual tasting events and chocolate pairing events with things like rum, wine, and cheese. Aside from the store in Ocho Rios, there are a number of outlets in Jamaica (and a few in the Netherlands) that sell Pure Chocolate products. Regardless of how you get your hands on one of the award-winning bars, the taste of true Jamaican chocolate is one you’re not likely to forget.
Everything You Need To Know About Seeing Wild Horses in Colorado
Centuries ago was the height of the Wild West era in Colorado, where the indigenous Ute tribe and gold-hungry settlers roamed the land. Although the state has lost some of its wildness over the years, one remnant of that time is the wild horses of Colorado, whose ancestors were used by settlers and Ute alike. Now, these free-spirited creatures live in Colorado’s four Herd Management Areas (HMAs) where, if you’re lucky, you might be able to see them in action. Here’s where to find wild horses in Colorado.
How many wild horses are in Colorado?
Photo: Visit Grand Junction
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which runs the state’s HMAs, currently estimates that there are 1,800 wild horses living in Colorado. Since the state’s designated wild horse land is only suitable for close to half that number, the BLM often pursues controversial “roundups,” in which horses are gathered, trapped, and then sold in order to keep population numbers sustainable.
Roundups are done to cut down on the negative effects of wild horse overpopulation. If there are too many horses on the state’s HMAs, some may wander off in search of food on private land and end up grazing on grass meant for animals on farms and ranches. Wild horses may also prevent other species (like sheep, pronghorn, and elk) from getting water, driving the other animals that share their land away.
The good news about Colorado’s healthy wild horse population is that you have a good chance of finding and observing them from a distance…if you know where to look.
What kinds of wild horses are in Colorado?
Photo: Visit Grand Junction
Colorado is home to a diverse array of wild horse breeds, with everything from newly-introduced curly horses to paints, roans, and appaloosas. Most of the wild horses you’ll find in the state have Spanish, Arabic, or North American origins. Many of Colorado’s wild horses are mustangs, which are technically classified as “feral” rather than “wild” horses because they originated with domesticated breeds. These mustangs have become mixes of different breeds throughout the generations and appear in a variety of colorings, such as palomino, blue and red roan, or sorrel.
Best places to see wild horses in ColoradoSand Wash Basin, Northwest Colorado
Photo: Visit Moffat County
Sand Wash Basin is an open HMA in northwest Colorado off County Road 67, west of Craig. This BLM land covers 157,730 acres, and is home to a mixture of wild horse breeds, although most bear the greatest genetic resemblance to the Iberian Spanish horses of the 16th and 17th centuries.
While you can find wild horses of all colors here, you’re most likely to come across gray and sorrel ones. Locals claim that the best way of pursuing a sighting is to simply drive the county road through the BLM land, or take advantage of the area’s many hiking paths. Keep in mind that a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle will make for the most comfortable excursion. To increase your chances of a sighting, take a private tour with Wild Horse Warriors, and when you’re done looking for wild horses, stay in the popular hunting town of Craig in Colorado’s arid plains.
While iconic wild horse Picasso is no longer grazing in Sand Wash Basin, if you’re lucky, you may come across Mystic, a wild white mare with haunting dark eyes, or stallion brothers Caliente and Augustus.
Spring Creek BasinLocated in between Norwood and Cortez in southwestern Colorado lies Spring Creek Basin. The herd here is one of the smallest in the state at under 100 horses, but at Spring Creek Basin you’re also likely to glimpse elk or antelope, making this HMA a top wildlife destination. Plan a fun day with a four-wheel-drive vehicle and take road CR19Q (four miles down highway 142 from Naturita) to K20E in Disappointment Valley.
Local legend suggests that the wild horses of Spring Creek Basin were brought to the area by a conman from Montana who had stolen them and hoped to make a profit. Instead, the man was forced to flee to avoid criminal charges and left the horses behind. Keep an eye out for spirited Sundance (recognizable by his long white mane and many battle scars) and his band of mustangs on the rugged terrain.
Little Book Cliffs Wild Horse HMA
Photo: Visit Grand Junction
After exploring Colorado’s fruit and wine country in nearby Grand Junction and Palisade, head to the sagebrush-dotted canyon that makes up the Little Book Cliffs HMA. Your best bet for seeing horses here is to go by four-wheel-drive vehicle to Indian Park, where you’ll glimpse a diverse array of breeds.
You may need to get the binoculars out to find wild horses here or tramp through the fields to look for flat, open stretches where the herds gather. Just be prepared for the heat and keep your distance and stick to slow movements and gentle voices to ensure safety. Probably the most fun way to explore this HMA is taking a tour by horseback (not wild horse, of course) with Rimrock Adventures through Little Book Cliffs to spot one of the 150 horses that make their home here.
Piceance-East Douglas HMAThe Piceance-East Douglas HMA is located in the northwest of the state and is home to 100-250 wild horses on a little over 190,000 acres of public land. Hiking and 4×4 trails offer the best chances of finding bands of horses here, and a tour from Piceance Mustangs is coming soon.
For the highest chance of coming across a herd, head to Yellow Creek or 84 Mesa in springtime. During the summer, the wild horses leave the lowlands for higher elevation, and in the winter bands head toward slopes and ridges, so plan your visit accordingly. For great views that may just include bands of wild horses, drive Rio Blanco County Road 103 to the Cathedral Bluffs.
This HMA was the site of a particularly controversial roundup in the summer of 2022 and is also known for being an oil, coal, and gas-rich section of BLM land. While Piceance-East Douglas is open to the public year-round, be aware that there are no facilities on the property, and phone service may be spotty–perfect for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. The towns of Meeker and Rangely are the closest places to find food and gas.
August 15, 2022
The Sexiest and Most Provocative Shows You Can See in Paris
Paris has more to offer than quaint cafés, strolls by the Seine, and long, cultured days in the Louvre — it has a sexy side. After all, Paris is home to the Moulin Rouge, the birthplace of the French cancan. It has a reputation to maintain, and it does so flawlessly.
The French capital is home to a wide range of adult shows, from the gently provocative Paris cabaret to the full-blown erotic. There is something for everyone, no matter their preferences and their levels of shyness. On top of that, Cabaret shows in Paris often come with dinner and Champagne, making it a perfect way to indulge fully.
Sexy Paris cabaretFéerie at Le Moulin RougeWhere: 82 Boulevard de Clichy, 75018 Paris, FranceWhen: Several shows per day, including matinées, and options including dinner, champagne, and surprises.Price: From $90 to $430Age restriction: Children from age six are allowed to enter with a parent or legal guardian.
Situated in the heart of Pigalle, Paris’ former red-light district, Le Moulin Rouge is world-famous but continues to exceed visitors’ expectations.
“Féerie” (which translates as wonder) takes you on a journey through space and time: from the sleepy gardens of a windmill to the bustle of a pirate ship. The performance is a perfect blend of provocation and storytelling. Even better, if you wish to it comes with dinner — a French gastronomical meal cooked by the Moulin’s in-house chef.
Despite containing some nudity — with topless female dancers and skimpy costumes — today, the Moulin Rouge brands itself as family-friendly, stepping away from its scandalous past.
Totally Crazy: The Crazy Horse ShowWhere: 12 Avenue George V, 75008 Paris, FranceWhen: Sunday to Friday 8 PM and 10:30 PM; Saturday at 7 PM, 9:30 PM, and 11:45 PM with options including champagne, dinner, private tours, and more.Price: From $92 to $280Age restriction: Children from age 10 are allowed to enter with a parent or legal guardian.Crazy Horse is one of Paris’ biggest cabarets. What sets it apart from the rest is the cheek of its performances, combined with the intimate setting of the venue, with its soft lighting and hidden corners. For 90 minutes, enjoy the grace and sexuality of dancers from all over the world.
“Totally Crazy” is tasteful but risqué: Skilled dancers’ near-naked, voluptuous bodies are shrouded in whirling light effects. The show contains almost-complete nudity, with male and female dancers dressed only in diamante or leather G-strings.
Paris Merveilles at the LidoWhere: 116 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris, FranceWhen: Three performances per day at 3 PM, 9 PM, and 11 PM with Champagne and dinner options among others.Price: From $77 to $460Age restrictions: Children from four years old are allowed to enter with a parent or legal guardian.
A Vegas-style performance with all the modern frills, “Paris Merveilles” is a breathtaking experience that celebrates the City of Light with a provocative and sensual show created by Franco Dragone — the man behind Cirque du Soleil.
Over the years, the Lido has made a name for itself as one of Paris’ best cabarets. Its racy shows are performed by iconic dancers — the Bluebell Girls and the Lido Boys. “Paris Merveilles” takes the venue’s artistic and sexy skillset to a new level, celebrating its 75th anniversary with this special show dedicated to the city of Paris.
Expect well-choreographed dances, mind-blowing acrobatics performed in lingerie, topless dancers, both male and female, and suggestive acts that will have your pulse racing as high as the cancan dancers’ legs.
L’Oiseau Paradis at Le Paradis LatinWhere: 28, Rue du Cardinal Lemoine, 75005 Paris, FranceWhen: Every day at 2 PM and 9:30 PM with several options for lunch, dinner, and more. Price: From $72 to $200.Age restrictions: Children from age six are allowed to enter with a parent or legal guardian.
At Le Paradis Latin, performances blur the line between dance and live sex show. There are BDSM-inspired pole-dances in strappy G-strings; three naked bodies caressing each other; two wet and steamy acrobats in a bathtub. Each scene of the “L’Oiseau Paradis” performance is expertly performed, erotically charged, and unafraid of crossing boundaries.
While the show is 100 percent modern, Paradis Latin is one of the oldest cabarets of Paris. It was founded by Napoléon Bonaparte in 1802, at the time named Théâtre Latin. Since then, it has drawn many illustrious patrons, including Honoré de Balzac.
The main vedette of L’Oiseau Paradis (which translates as Bird of Paradise) is former Miss Universe Iris Mittenaere. The show is directed by Kamel Ouali, who reinvents classics such as the French cancan with special effects, sophisticated machinery, and amazing costumes.
Cabaret Burlesque at La Nouvelle SeineWhere: 3 Quai Montebello, 75005 Paris, FranceWhen: Fridays and Saturdays at 10:30 PM. Courses on Sunday afternoons.Price: $10Age restrictions: Children from age 12 are allowed to enter with a parent or legal guardian.
“Le Cabaret Burlesque” leans into the vintage aesthetic of the art of burlesque, providing a cheeky show filled with energy. Both men and women show off their rhinestone-studded and feather-covered bodies in this expertly directed performance.
If that wasn’t atmospheric enough, the entire thing takes place on a Bateau-Mouche, so you can enjoy the beauty of the Seine — as long as you can take your eyes off the scantily clad performers. The show involved topless men and women and a lot of lingerie.
The venue also offers courses in Burlesque if you want to take a turn on the stage.
The Brunch and Queen at Acqua e FarinaVoir cette publication sur InstagramUne publication partagée par The brunch and queen (@thebrunchandqueen)
Where: 45 Quai de Valmy 75010 Paris, FranceWhen: Sunday from 12:00 noon to 5 PM.Price: $30 with the all-you-can-eat buffetAge restrictions: N/A
The mimosas are bottomless, and the drag performers are scantily clad at this tasty brunch. The award-winning Lolita Banana, alongside a team of guest drag queens from all over the planet, presents an unforgettable show as decadent as the chocolate fountain and dessert counter included in the buffet.
Originally from Mexico, Lolita is making a name for herself as one of the top drag performers in Paris. Her quirky sense of humor and unique style always keep guests entertained.
Erotic shows in ParisSensual pleasures at Théâtre ChoChotteWhere: 34 Rue Saint-André des Arts, 75006 Paris, FranceWhen: Rolling performances from 12:30 PM to 00:30 AM, Monday to Saturday.Price: $56 for men, $40 for women, $87 for a coupleAge restrictions: 18+
Théâtre ChoChotte is a cross between a cabaret and a strip club, and its quirky, innovative performances are sure to awaken your deepest desires. With special rates for couples, this erotic theater presents rolling 15-minute shows, each a uniquely sensual experience. The majority of the performers are women. You will see bare chests, butt cheeks, and dancers getting hot and heavy on stage.
Until 1986, Théâtre ChoChotte was a haute couture boutique held by Madame Caussade. After spending her entire career dressing women in the most elegant of outfits, Madame Caussade decided she would rather help them get undressed. So she transformed her shop into an erotic theatre with new performances every week.
Sweet Experience at Sweet ParadiseWhere: 12, Rue Marie Stuart, 75002 Paris, FranceWhen: Wednesday to Saturday at 8:30 PM.Price: $30Age restrictions: 18+
Take the staircase down to a secret stone-walled basement, where talented exotic dancers nicknamed the Sweeties will help you live out your wildest fantasies. Before the show begins, you are given a color bracelet to show how involved you want to get — blue if you only want to observe, yellow for limited interactions, and red to give the Sweeties permission to do whatever they desire. Sweet Paradise calls itself a “bar of fantasies” for a reason — nothing is off limits here, they say, within the confines of the law.
Half strip club, half theater, the “Sweet Experience” offer two performances: on Thursdays, “Murder at Sweet Paradise” which is an erotic detective show in which the Sweeties investigate the audience to find the culprit. On Fridays, the show revolves around the Sweeties asking for the audience’s help to find the key to paradise. This show is particularly adapted for swingers and couples. Expect full nudity.
The Shower Show at Le RaiddWhere: 23 rue du Temple, 75004 Paris, FranceWhen: Three shows per night. The first one starts around 12:30 AM.Price: No cover chargeAge restrictions: 18+
“In our shower, we are all equal” is Le Raidd’s catchphrase, one of Paris’ most popular gay bars. Located in the heart of the Marais, the city’s queer district, Le Raidd is famous for its sexy shower shows. Every night, four hunky men make a dirty show of getting nice and clean. They strip down before lathering up in a glass shower cubicle in the center of the bar. Expect full nudity — only covered by suds. The bartenders also work topless.
The bar is popular with young Parisians, international students, and the local LGBTQ+ crowd and has a lively atmosphere free of taboos. There is no cover charge, but drinks are pricey and you should expect a long line to get in on the weekends.
Americans Are Shocked at This Example of ‘Work-Life Balance’ in Barcelona
Spain is an excellent country for digital nomads. At the beginning of the year, the government announced its new digital nomad visa, and one index named it among the best countries for remote workers. If you need more convincing, this video from Thomas Manuel, a digital nomad and travel content creator currently living in Barcelona, created a TikTok that shows his work-life balance in Europe.
@thomaslmanuelBalance is the keyword
♬ Sundays – Just Piano Version – FKJ
Manuel ditched the 40-hour work week, and frankly, his schedule seems more “life” than work. The video has racked up over four million views and over 900,000 likes in just four days. Many viewers commented about Manuel’s five-hour coffee break.
“I was waiting for the part you go back to work after your coffee break but life just kept happening,” Amadou Bah commented.
“I’m over here like, ‘Damn, that’s a long lunch break,’ and then he just never went back to work,” Ashton commented.
Some users in the comments said that this life wasn’t attainable for every digital nomad that makes their way out of the United States because most jobs don’t have the flexibility. Manuel disagreed.
“I usually work four hours a day in the office, but sometimes I’ll do more, sometimes less, TikTok and content creation is a 24/7 job,” he said. “It does work with a lot of professions and if you travel around the world you’ll see plenty of countries have adopted this type of work schedule.”
So if you’re looking to make a change, or you’re already working remotely, it might be time to give Barcelona a shot.
For Your Culinary Bucket List: Pizza a Portafoglio Is the Perfect Italian Street Food
The modern version of pizza as you know it today – one of the most beloved and iconic dishes in the history of, well, all of humanity – was created in Naples, Italy. Today, in the Campania region, pizza is everywhere: shops lining every street, street vendors, and cafes. And yes, you can even find it on the beach — especially a portable folded version called pizza a portafoglio.
The name translates loosely to pizza wallet because of how it’s folded, and, according to Visit Naples, the first came from a pizzeria that dates back to 1738. It’s not just around Naples. You can find pizza a portafoglio in multiple parts of Italy as a common (and cheap) street food, but if you’re headed to Naples specifically, you must add it to your culinary bucket list. Served hot enough to scorch your tongue, these personal pizza pies are folded up in paper, almost like a big piece of pita, so that you can eat it as you explore.
@foodwtf Beachside #pizza vendor in #Naples #Italy(taylor’s version)
A TikTok video posted by @@kikka_cry where a beachside pizza vendor in Naples can be seen serving pizza a portafoglio is a perfect example. Beachside pizza vendors in Naples push a small cart with a large metal barrel. Inside, the hot pizzas are stacked and ready to be served to hungry beach goers. The sandy beach is dotted with tables outfitted with umbrellas.
A sizzling hot mini pizza might not be the first thing you think to eat while relaxing in the sand, but this is Italy after all – anytime is a good time for pizza. And undoubtedly, there will be good gelato nearby for when you need to cool down.
Pizza a portafoglio joins other dishes like panzerotti and cuoppo as the most famous street foods in Naples. Everywhere you look, there is another piping hot delicious fried food filled with cheese and tomatoes – the biggest challenge you’ll probably face on your Italian getaway is what to try first.
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