Matador Network's Blog, page 442
July 26, 2022
14 Ways a Myrtle Beach Vacation Is Way More Than Just a Beach Vacation
14 Ways a Myrtle Beach Vacation is Way More Than Just a Beach VacationBy: Stephanie Burt
Photo: Visit Myrtle BeachIt is more than a place — Myrtle Beach is a destination, a vibe, a lifestyle that’s been celebrated in song and captured by many a vacation photograph over the years. And while those photographs may show an ever-evolving Grand Strand, one thing stays the same: Myrtle Beach’s 60 miles of open, endless beach are as timeless as ever.
And while millions of visitors may come for that never-ending sun and sand, you shouldn’t leave without experiencing all you can of this beloved vacation spot, from hiking and art galleries to thrill rides and, of course, dining by the sea. Start with this list and see for yourself just how good the Grand Strand can be — beyond the golden sand.
This guide is proudly produced in partnership with Visit Myrtle Beach.
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Discover Your Inner Artist
The natural beauty and rich culture of this region have inspired artists for generations. From folk art to murals to modern oil paintings, they’ve tried to capture that inspiration in myriad ways — catch a bit of it yourself at various galleries, museums, festivals, and performing arts venues. The region has so much to offer, and you can experience much of it for free.
Photo: Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock
2/32. Immerse Yourself in Another Culture and TimeGullah history is as interwoven with Myrtle Beach as the strands of a sweetgrass basket. Learn about these roots with a guided tour of the Hopsewee Plantation, led by a descendant of the West African slaves who were brought to work on Carolina plantations. Participate in a hands-on sweetgrass basket-weaving workshop, then meander on over to River Oak Cottage Tea Room for an English tea service or a full lunch menu of Lowcountry recipes.
Photo: Visit Myrtle Beach
3/33. Get in the Swing of Things in the Golf Capital of the WorldFrom a multitude of mini-golf options — more per square mile than anywhere else in the country — to award-winning courses and stunning 18th-hole views, Myrtle Beach rings like a golfer’s siren call. While you’re here, practice your skills on one of nine exquisite courses ranked by Golf Digest. And if you’d like to polish your putting or otherwise hone your game, golf lessons are everywhere, which means you can take home more than just the memories.
Photo: Visit Myrtle Beach
2/34. Uncover Some Wild SurprisesAn evening people-watching on the Boardwalk might be “wild” enough, but don’t forget the region is home to plenty of native wild animals, too. One of the best places to view them — from egrets to alligators and otters — is the Lowcountry Zoo at Brookgreen Gardens. There’s even a “butterfly experience” to enjoy the natural poetry of these important pollinators.
Photo: Ben Whalen/Shutterstock
2/35. Treat the Kids to Some Science and AwePart of Broadway at the Beach, WonderWorks touts itself as a “museum of the mind,” and it wows children and adults alike with 100 interactive exhibits. More wows are waiting at The Hollywood Wax Museum — with its strikingly lifelike figures of celebrities and other notables — and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium, which illustrates through each of its hundreds of exhibits just how wild and mysterious the world around us is.
Photo: Visit Myrtle Beach
3/36. Play With Your Food at Themed RestaurantsDo barbecued ribs taste better with a side of live animatronic dinosaurs? Explore the answer at DinoLand Cafe. Or, perhaps colorful drinks make you want to sing and dance along with the servers at The Hangout. Maybe watching authentic sword fights and falconry at Medieval Times really works up your appetite for a four-course feast. Either way, Myrtle Beach’s various themed restaurants can delight, dazzle, and provide a show that’s much more than just a dinner out.
Photo: Visit Myrtle Beach
3/37. Feel the Harmony in the Cradle of Country and Beach MusicThat Myrtle Beach air carries three things: salt, fresh seafood, and good music. The strains of a familiar song can be heard day and night on the Grand Strand, from pier to poolside bar. Learn to dance the Carolina Shag (the official dance of South Carolina) at Fat Harold’s Beach Club, listen to live music at the Tin Roof, or party all day (and night) at the Carolina Country Music Fest.
Photo: Visit Myrtle Beach
2/38. Dine Al Fresco Witha View of the Tides
Whether it’s a casual meal on a pier or dock or fine dining with a view of the surf crashing onto the sand, Myrtle Beach has plenty of options to take al fresco dining to the next level. Sip a mojito at Mojo’s Marina on Murrells Inlet, take in your beachfront-burrito view at Banditos Cantina, or become part of a six-decade Grand Strand tradition with a meal under the stars at Sea Captain’s House.
Photo: Visit Myrtle Beach
3/39. Join The Big Leagues at The Ripken ExperienceFrom weeklong experiences to tournaments, clinics, and camps, The Ripken Experience aims to provide ballplayers with an experience similar to what professional players have in the big leagues. Multiple batting cages, bullpens, and extensive training facilities provide emerging players with the environment to excel. And during tournaments, players will even have a chance to come up to bat to their own “take the field” music.
Photo: Visit Myrtle Beach
2/310. Sit Back and Enjoy the ShowIn Myrtle Beach, it’s not only the light sparkling off the water that’s bright. Stage lights shine all over the Grand Strand, with a dizzying array of live shows to enjoy year-round. Some of the most enduring crowd favorites include national acts at the Alabama Theatre and The Carolina Opry and classical music at the Long Bay Symphony. But there are also magicians, murder-mystery nights, amazing impressions — and even pirates. All it takes is a ticket, and the night’s fun is set.
Photo: Visit Myrtle Beach
3/311. Let the Kids’ Imaginations Run WildMyrtle Beach can make a child’s imagination soar, from pirates to aquarium sleepovers and everything in between. Here are just a few ideas: The EdVenture Children’s Museum invites interactive learning and play; kids can play golf at many area courses for free; state parks run junior ranger programs; heck, they can even enjoy an interactive storytelling experience with a princess at Wonders Theatre.
Photo: Visit Myrtle Beach
2/312. Make Some WavesThe beach is a great place to begin your Myrtle Beach adventure, but it’s not where the outdoor fun should end. From kayaking the tidal creeks to flying over the beach in a parasail, the Grand Strand offers countless watersport adventures. Some are more about thrills (think surfboards and Jet Skis) and some are more about chills (think dolphin-watching tours and deep-sea fishing).
Photo: Visit Myrtle Beach
3/313. Slow Down to Nature’s PaceThere’s no doubt there’s beauty at every turn in this slice of South Carolina. It’s surprisingly easy to explore, too, whether you’re strolling through Brookgreen Gardens, signing up for a birdwatching tour of a salt marsh, fishing off a pier, or sleeping under the stars at one of Myrtle Beach’s favorite campgrounds. Myrtle Beach seems made for nature lovers, no fancy skills or equipment required.
Photo: Visit Myrtle Beach
2/314. Sign Up for a Thrill a MinuteEnjoy a 187-foot-high 360º-view of the Grand Strand inside a glass-enclosed gondola on The SkyWheel. Challenge the whole family to a friendly race to the finish line in go-karts. Spend a day at The Funplex, a tropical-themed thrill-seekers park just one block from the beach. Once you get your thrill on the rides, get your chill back on the sand. It’ll be there when you’re ready.
Photo: Visit Myrtle Beach
3/3This guide is proudly produced in partnership with Visit Myrtle Beach.
The Best Tours To Take in Galveston for Every Type of Traveler
Galveston is the island city that draws travelers from across the world with its rich blend of colorful characters, dynamic art, and architecture, and interesting history. Nearly seven million visitors flood its historic streets and avenues each year, looking for food, adventure, and seaside fun. The island is generous to its guests, offering several Galveston tours for foodies, paranormal believers, history seekers, and animal enthusiasts. Whatever reason brought you to Galveston, you’ll be happy indulging in one (or more) of these amazing tours.
The best Galveston tours for foodies
Photo: Taste of the Strand
Your tastebuds will love you, but your belt might burst when you experience one of Taste of the Strand’s walking food tour options.
1. Taste of the Strand Food TourThe original foodie tour of Galveston, Taste of the Strand Food Tour, introduces you to the Galveston Island Strand District’s local cuisine and eateries. A food tour guide will walk with your group while giving you the history of the city and its restaurants as you prepare to take part in savory southern dishes. The stops on the tour can change without warning and the menus are set by the restaurants, so it’s highly recommended that those with severe food allergies speak with the company before purchasing tickets.
Adults 16 years of age and up will pay $105 per ticket while children eight to 15 cost $55. Children under seven years old will share food with a paying adult. There are discounts for senior citizens, military veterans, police, fire, EMS, medical personnel, and teachers.
2. Tapas on the Strand Food and Drink TourTapas on the Strand Food and Drink Tour is a two-hour walking tour of Galveston’s historic Strand District. This tour is ideal for those beverage aficionados who also fancy themselves as foodies. You’ll enjoy small plates of food and adult drinks that highlight the Gulf Coast. Adult tickets are $135 (with alcohol) or $99.98 (without alcohol). Senior citizens, military veterans, and select front-line workers will receive a discount as well as young adults who cannot legally purchase alcohol.
3. Pubs N’ Grubs TourIf you claim to be Irish or you just really like to drink, then you’ll want to book the Pubs N’ Grubs Tour with Taste of the Strand. On this tour, you’ll enjoy bar bites and plenty of adult beverages as you create a string of blurry memories that you’ll find on your iPhone the next morning. Adults will pay $145 per ticket, while a discount is available for senior citizens, military personnel, and other service members. You’ll want to book online as quickly as possible, as this tour often sells out early.
4. Private Couples Food TourThe ultimate romantic experience in Galveston, the Private Couples Food Tour is the best way to do date night the correct way (no sleeping on the couch for you tonight). The tour is a private outing that lets you and your significant other experience the taste of the Strand for a truly unique night out.
The menu for the Private Couples Food Tour changes seasonally, so there are always delightful surprises in store.
Online reservations are not available for this tour, but you can reach out directly to Taste of The Strand Food Tour for booking.
5. Exclusive Private Group TourIf you have a special occasion to celebrate or a large group to make memories with, you’ll want to book an Exclusive Private Group Tour.
Groups of up to 16 visitors are invited to enjoy a tour catered to adults while walking the beautiful streets of Galveston. It’s the best option to consider if you’re having a bachelor or bachelorette party, an anniversary celebration, a bridal shower, a big birthday gathering, or a good old-fashioned group adventure.
You’ll need to call the company to get the details of this activity straightened out.
The Best galveston ghost tours
Photo: Timothy L Barnes/Shutterstock
Travelers who love to embrace the things that go bump in the night will feel right at home with some of the best Galveston tours of the paranormal side to the island city.
Get ready to believe in the metaphysical as these tours guide you along the haunted streets of a town that has seen more than its fair share of tragedy.
6. Al’s Authentic Paranormal ToursIf you simply want a few spooky bedtime stories, then this may not be the tour for you. Al’s Authentic Paranormal Tours takes into account detailed historical facts and combines them with personal paranormal experiences in various spots around Galveston.
The aforementioned Al carefully guides each group tour on an hour and a half walk about the city spinning spooky yarns daily for a small $15 fee per person. After nearly 1,400 guided tours throughout the city, Al’s remains one of the highest-rated ghostly experiences, which should be enough proof to trust in his connection to the supernatural side of Galveston.
Al also provides private tours and guided day history-centric city tours as well.
7. Historic Galveston Ghost ToursOne of the highest-rated spook-tacular tours on the island, Historic Galveston Ghost Tours offers an eerie glimpse into the underworld of the Galveston paranormal plane with excursions into the infamous Silk Stocking District.
The Historic Galveston Ghost Tours walks you past the murderer’s row of haunted residences in Galveston, including the Sealy Mansion, the Normandy Inn, and Ashton Villa.
Prices are $20 for adults, and $15 for children under 15 years old, while children under the age of four are admitted free. Active military members with proper identification are free as well.
8. Spooky Strand Ghost Tours“Behind every window, someone may be watching” is how Spooky Strand Ghost Tours frames its chilling supernatural outings. While some unbelievers will no doubt point out that that’s how windows are supposed to work, those who believe in the afterlife will let their minds drift off to Galveston’s many natural disasters, wars, and fires that have devastated the island and how so many lives came to a sudden, violent end.
Stops on these 90-minute walking tours include the Railroad Museum, the Tremont House, and the Sealy-Hutchings Building. Tour guides will entertain the crowds with haunting tales of legendary pirate Jean Lafitte, who turned Galveston into a den of iniquity, sin, and murder.
The company operates three tours every evening at 6:00 PM, 8:00 PM, and 10:00 PM, with special midnight tours available on the weekends. Persons 13 years of age or older are $20, while children 15 to three years old are $15. Military discounts are offered as well. Pets are allowed on the tour (while on a leash!), so feel free to bring along Mr. Bark Twain to be the Scooby to your Shaggy while you walk around Galveston.
9. Haunted Pub Crawl Walking TourGhost City Tours has created a boozy and spooky good time with the Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour. This tour takes you to some of the city’s finest haunted bars and pubs where you’ll drink the night away while being regaled with scary stories that may make a believer out of the most hardened skeptic.
Your blurry memory of this experience may include paranormal activity because each pub and bar you visit has a documented ghoulish presence, and they’re waiting for the right visitor to come along and bring them to life. Or so the stories go.
This adults-only tour is for those 21 years of age or older with tickets priced at $29.99 each.
The best Galveston tours for historians
Photo: Fotoluminate LLC/Shutterstock
The city of Galveston has a long, complicated history that twists tales of legendary figures like the pirate Jean Lafitte, houses of ill repute, and a seemingly lawless era where celebrities and dignitaries from around the nation descended to the island to let off steam and get lost for a short time.
It’s impossible to tell the story of Galveston without diving deep into the underworld that fed it and created one of the largest economies in the nation during the Great Depression and Prohibition. Luckily, there are several tours in place that will help shine a light on this often overlooked and marginalized piece of Texas history.
10. Red Light District Tours of GalvestonAuthor and speaker Kimber Fountain guides visitors through the seedy nightlife and often forgotten parts of Galveston’s past where booze, wild parties, and sex workers collided, often resulting in a deadly mix.
Why should you consider the Red Light District Tours of Galveston? Fountain literally wrote the book Galveston’s Red Light District: A History of The Line, about the tales, both grim and jubilant, that originated in Galveston’s Red Light District. The tour is $39.95 per person and covers approximately 12 city blocks.
They recommend the tour for adults and older teens because of the mature content. It’s not censored for younger children, which are allowed on the tour if an adult accompanies them, so bring kids along if you don’t mind therapy bills later in life.
11. SegCity’s Rat Pack TourGalveston was once known as The Free State of Galveston because of the lax attention to rules from government agents and law enforcers over vices such as drinking, gambling, and prostitution.
During the Rat Pack Tour of the city, you’ll scan the homes of former residents Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Al Capone where they spent their time in Galveston. You’ll also see where their famous businesses existed: The Hollywood Diner Club, The Pelican Club, and the world-famous Balinese Room.
Tours run multiple times a day and cost $79 per person.
12. Galveston’s Red Light District ToursThe ladies, madams, and houses of prostitution that made Galveston the “Sin City” of the South come to life on Galveston’s Red Light District Tours.
The mob, prostitution, and vices of all kinds have a deeply intertwined history with Galveston. On the Galveston Red Light District Tour, you’ll learn about those city connections, and why and how prostitution flourished on the island for nearly 100 years.
This walking tour costs $25 for adults and $15 for children. It takes you to eight various bordellos that are still standing (although not active) and buildings that were used for gambling houses and illegal liquor.
The best Galveston tours to see the city
Photo: SegCity
Galveston is a thriving, dynamic city with an energetic tapestry of life, art, food, architecture, and history.
Because of its size, you can see Galveston in a relatively short amount of time. Whether you want to experience it on foot, on a bus, or on an ultra-cool segway, the city is begging for your attention and is ready to reward those travelers who give it more than just a passing glance.
13. SegCity’s Turtles and Murals Segway ToursGalveston is home to a vibrant art scene that includes more than museums and galleries. On SegCity’s Turtles and Murals Segway Tour you’ll zip through the streets of the Strand Historic District, the Post Office Art District, and the West End Market Area on a segway as you search out unique selfies and Insta-ready snaps with Galveston’s urban art as your backdrop.
You and your crew will learn exciting facts about sea turtles that inhabit Galveston’s beaches and waters, as well as play a virtual trivia game on your phone while you tour the city. Tickets cost $60 with add-ons such as bottles of water, insurance, and GoPro’s that can help complete your trip.
14. SegCity’s Seawall Cruise TourFire up those segways once again as you set out on SegCity’s Seawall Cruise Tour. This tour is designed for people who want to experience a fun, relaxing ride along the world-famous Galveston seawall without having their thoughts interrupted every 30 seconds with a tour guide’s history stories or interesting tidbits.
You’ll snap photos and take as much video as you want as the sea air whisks its way through your hair while you peer out over the water in search of dolphins and birds. Each ride lasts roughly an hour and will cost $50 per person.
15. Galveston’s Historic Port, Pirates and Architecture Bus TourHop on the Galveston Experience bus to take part in the popular Port, Pirates, and Architecture Tour while enjoying the air conditioning and one of the best ways to see the island.
The tour makes stops at the 1892 Bishop’s Palace, the Port of Galveston, the 1859 Ashton Villa, and the Moody Mansion while also passing by several other historical landmarks in and around the city.
You’ll want to contact Galveston Experience directly to set up a tour as the hours fluctuate from season to season.
The best Galveston tours for animal enthusiasts
Photo: Baywatch Dolphin Tours
Galveston is not only a fascinating city full of history, beautiful architecture, and ghostly scenes, but it’s also a beautiful island paradise that is home to a plethora of wildlife species, sea turtles, and dolphins.
Whether you’re in town for a day, a weekend, or longer, you owe it to yourself to book a tour that puts these amazing creatures front and center.
16. Galveston Water Adventures Dolphin ToursHop aboard the Cruise-N-Time twin-engine open-air tour boat and set sail into Galveston Bay for an hour-long excursion to see the birds and marine life that call the area home.
Galveston Water Adventures lets your travel group get up close to amazing dolphins as they swim and play in the waters below. The entire crew will have an incredible time snapping photos and posing for Instagram as the Galveston Water Adventures team delights with fun local stories.
Multiple outings are offered each day, scheduled roughly an hour and a half apart, so you should have plenty of opportunities to fit a dolphin tour into your schedule. Tickets for children under 11 years of age are $16.80, while adults 12 and older are $26.40. Toddlers under two years old are free. The Cruise-N-Time tour boat is also wheelchair accessible.
17. Baywatch Dolphin ToursDespite the namesake, Pamela Anderson does not appear on this tour, but your group will absolutely have a damn good time with Baywatch Dolphin Tours.
Baywatch Dolphin Tours, featured once on Good Morning America, is one of Galveston’s most popular tours and is at Pier 21 just a few blocks removed from the historic Strand. The company keeps four vessels, operating at every 30 minutes, to whisk visitors three miles through Galveston Harbor.
The tours operate year-round and let adults partake in the fun for $20 per person, $12 for children, while freeloading pets and infants get to tour for free.
18. Historic Harbor Tour and Dolphin WatchWho wouldn’t want to learn about Galveston history while spotting dolphins? On this tour, you’ll climb aboard the Seagull II, a 50-foot twin-engine motor vessel, as she sets sail into the beautiful Galveston Harbor where you’ll learn about the history of the city while keeping an eye out for those fun-loving dolphins.
Your crew will see and learn about the fully restored 1877 sailing vessel Elissa, the Civil War Battle of Galveston, and the still partially submerged concrete oil tanker SS Selma which lies in rest in the Galveston Harbor.
Adults and children six years of age and older are $17, while children five and under are free. The tour lasts for about an hour and runs five times a day. Field trips and school groups are also welcome to learn about the history of the harbor from the decks of the Seagull II. 
July 25, 2022
This Road Trip Mapping Site Finds You the Coolest Things To Do on Your Route
With considerable flight delays and cancellations this summer, some professionals are saying to ditch catching flights and opt to drive instead. And while the journey portion of a road trip might be more time-consuming than hopping on a plane, that’s part of the fun. You might want to curate your trip around national parks or the best places to drink wine. But there’s an easier way to do it if you’re just looking for cool sights along your route: Makemydrivefun
@setupspawn Use this for your next road trip! #roadtrip #vacation #travel ♬ original sound – Matty McTech
While a good portion of the comments in the video that highlighted the site mentioned the TikToker’s questionable pronunciation of Seattle, Makemydrivefun is a good starting point for the most epic adventures. Some commenters also had trouble getting the road trip generator to work, but when I tried it out, I noticed adding the state to lesser known cities and refreshing the page between each road trip helps to keep the site running smoothly. Also remember, this website should be a starting point. Stockton natives in the comments warned that the adventure park was in a dangerous area.
Why You Should Think Twice Before Booking an Ayahuasca Retreat
As a South America-based environmental journalist and travel writer that’s been covering (and consuming) ayahuasca for over a decade, I love seeing this visionary plant medicine having its moment in the spotlight. But with commercial ayahuasca retreat centers popping up everywhere, often charging hefty fees and employing loaded marketing efforts, I think it’s time to have a talk about the deeper implications of the rise of ayahuasca use in the West.
I will not tell you not to take ayahuasca. Quite the opposite. I believe it’s a powerful, needed, and highly relevant medicine and scientific studies prove it. For example, this 2019 Brazillian research, shows ayahuasca is effective in relieving depression, which is, according to the World Health Organization, the number one cause of disability in the world right now. Other studies show ayahuasca exhibits powerful therapeutic actions on serious mental health issues like addiction and PTSD.
Undoubtedly, the potent mental health benefits of ayahuasca are driving the boom. In fact, plenty of evidence points to an important role for ayahuasca in not just individual healing but social transformation at large. Ethnobotanist and plant medicine expert Dennis McKenna told The Guardian that ayahuasca is “changing environmental consciousness” just at the brink of time to save us from ecological catastrophe. Another example of the benefits of the medicine came from a recent collaborative study between Imperial College in London and Hebrew University in Jerusalem. Participants from Israel and Palestine were given doses of ayahuasca that resulted in empathic and compassionate dialogue.
But before you book a commercial ayahuasca retreat, it’s important to understand the issues of commercialization and cultural appropriation.
Ayahuasca commercialization creates a dangerous situationAyahuasca is a natural substance that has long been part of the deep-rooted spiritual traditions of Indigenous Amazonian societies that use it in specific ritualized ways. Just like with any other spiritual tradition, these practices are not primarily focused on making money. They are usually also downright opposed to any commercialization of the tradition itself.
The organization Union of Traditional Yage Medics of the Colombian Amazon (UMIYAC) comprises spiritual leaders from five different ethnic groups — the Cofán, Inga, Siona, Coreguaje, and Kamëntsá — who practice spiritual healing ceremonies based on ayahuasca. The organization put out a statement that those who “seek profit” from this sacred ancestral medicine “put the mental, physical and spiritual health and even the lives of their own patients at risk.”
Photo: iditinis/Shutterstock
You don’t have to look very hard to see their warning being played out in real life. A recent Vice story lists a slew of “abusive” and “dangerous” practices that employees and clients experienced at the “luxury” ayahuasca retreat Rythmia in Costa Rica. The Cut reports a sharp “uptick” in sexual abuse reported at ayahuasca retreats in the Amazon, which correlates to the rise in commercial ayahuasca tourism there. There are several cases of unintentional deaths at commercial retreat centers and even the occasional murder. That’s how funky things get when power and money get involved.
I’ve seen this problem escalate with my own eyes. Many of the street kids in Iquitos, Peru, the epicenter of ayahuasca tourism, tell me they want to be a “shaman” when they grow up because that’s where the money and Western women are. And can you blame them when a foreigner down the road is making tens of thousands of dollars per retreat that sells the kids’ own cultural traditions while they suffer from high levels of poverty because of centuries of colonial-capitalist exploitation?
Cultural appropriation obscures the true healing processIndigenous Amazonian cultures have been under direct attack by Western colonizer-capitalist culture for hundreds of years. Not only is their existence as a culture threatened, but the Amazon forest itself is being destroyed. In fact, the Colombian supreme court classifies all five ethnicities that make up UMIYAC as being in danger of “physical and cultural extinction.”
According to the UMIYAC statement, cultural appropriation “reduces the resilience of our peoples in resistance, putting our lives and those of the Amazonian ecosystems we want to conserve and protect at risk.”
A commercial retreat center owned by a Westerner and designed in alignment with the Western capitalist model of profitability perpetuates the system that is destroying the forest and its inhabitants. In an article published in the scientific journal Jstor Daily, writer Mark Hay explains that when Westerners shell out large sums of money for a commercial ayahuasca experience, they “contribute to the wanton commodification and fetishization of the cultures whose practices they wish to insinuate themselves into, or to co-opt.”
In other words, cultural appropriation is colonization. But it doesn’t just damage these Indigenous societies, it also changes the ancient tradition into something that does not carry the same healing potential.
Indigenous peoples have cultivated and guarded the traditions around ayahuasca for thousands of years, and it is no coincidence that they have also guarded and tended the Amazon rainforest, the most bio-diverse ecosystem on earth, during this time. In fact, according to on-the-ground non-profits like GAIA Amazonas, Indigenous people protect the rainforest better than it was designated as a reserve or national park.
Tapping into the true transformative power of ayahuascaIn my opinion, ayahuasca truly is a medicine for our time that will play an important role in building a sustainable, just, and healthy society. Its ability to bridge the mind-body gap and teach so us vividly how emotions like hate, greed, and envy are damaging our lives and the planet make it an invaluable magical medicine that has popped up onto the global landscape just at the nick of time.
But there are many alternatives to commercial ayahuasca centers. Indigenous people are introducing Westerners to not just ayahuasca, but the millennial wisdom of their cultures. Some are inviting outsiders into their communities. Some are traveling the world, albeit in sometimes clandestine ways, holding ceremonies.
Decriminalize Nature, is a fast-growing grassroots movement with many Indigenous people behind the helm. It has been successful at passing laws in areas like my hometown of Oakland and the state of Oregon that allow personal use of plant medicines, including ayahuasca. The local chapters organize community-based ceremonies and integration circles that happen outside the sphere of commercialization.
If you do go to a Western-owned, run, or organized ayahuasca retreat, make sure it is connected to, supportive of, and aligned with an Indigenous community or organization. The Indigenous Reciprocity Initiative of the Chacruna Institute links ayahuasca and other plant medicine projects in the West with Indigenous organizations in need. Because Indigenous people have nurtured this medicine since time immemorial and are now on the frontline of our ecological crisis, make sure that any money you pay goes towards helping them, too.
The Important Medical Reason Why You Should Always Pop Your Ears on a Flight
Whether you like it or not, popping your ears while you climb to 10,000 feet is inevitable. If you’re like me, the pop comes relatively quickly, For others, it can be difficult, and the sensation may be painful. But why do they need to pop in the first place? Morgan, a first officer and Boeing 737 pilot who also showed the view of Denver’s bathrooms from the runway, posted a video about why you should never suppress the need to pop and some ways to do it that help relieves the pressure quickly.
@almostcaptainmorgan Reply to @ladyhawkuk Tips and tricks from an airline pilot if your ears pop when you fly! #airlinepilot #traveltiktok #flyingtips #traveltips ♬ original sound – Morgan
Climbing or descending on an airplane causes the pressure in your middle ear to be different than the pressure of your environment, causing stress in your eardrum. The condition is called airplane ear (also known as ear barotrauma, barotitis media or aerotitis media), according to the Mayo Clinic. You might experience frustration because one ear pops but not the other. While airplane ear usually only causes moderate discomfort or pain and possibly temporary issues with hearing, severe cases can result in more severe levels of pain, ringing and bleeding in the ears, and vertigo.
Small children are more likely to have airplane ear because the eustachian tubes in their ears are smaller, making it difficult for the air to pass. Suggestions for them are to encourage them to swallow. You’re also more at risk when your sinuses are clogged. Other tips include avoiding sleep until after takeoff and before landing, using decongestant pills if you’re able to, taking allergy medication, or investing in filtered earplugs.
So while suppressing the need to pop might be tempting, it’s best to focus on what you can control, not what you can’t.
How To Visit Idaho’s Shoshone Falls, the ‘Niagara Falls of the West’
When you think of waterfalls in North America, there’s a good chance that Niagara Falls comes to mind first. While Niagara is certainly majestic, it’s not even close to the highest. Falls in Yosemite and Hawaii are taller by a wide margin. But what’s even more surprising is that waterfalls in Idaho like Shoshone Falls, are larger, too. But Idaho probably doesn’t crack your top 10 list of states with epics falls. But it should.
Idaho is home to some of the country’s most stunning natural beauty, not least of which is Shoshone Falls. Dubbed the “Niagara Falls of the West,” Shoshone sits just outside Twin Falls and it surpasses Niagara in height by nearly 50 feet. While the falls themselves are an ideal destination for sightseeing, the broader Twin Falls area is perfect for those craving outdoor adventure plus a solid brewery and culinary scene. From kayaking on the Snake River Canyon to exploring the city of Twin Falls itself, here’s how to make the most out of your visit to the Niagara Falls of the West.
How did Shoshone Falls form?
Photo: Jeremy Janus /Shutterstock
At 212 feet high and 900 feet wide, Shoshone Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the US. The falls are just seven miles outside Twin Falls, a city of just under 50,000 people in southern Idaho. They were created some 15,000 years ago during the Bonneville Flood of the Pleistocene Ice Age — the same time period in which the water that covered much of the Great Basin carved the Snake River Canyon. This process created Shoshone Falls as well as other regional waterfalls.
How to see Shoshone Falls
Photo: Idaho Tourism
Your first stop to get a full view of the falls should be one of the observation decks. The first deck is near the park entrance and accessible via stairs. From this platform, guests have an unparalleled view of the falls. The second viewpoint affords a closer view and is just up the path from the entrance.
You can also hike around the falls, and the popular Canyon Rim Trail begins at the falls and travels roughly eight miles along the Snake River Canyon to the trailhead for Auger Falls. There’s also the aptly named Dierkes Lake Trail (a 1.8-mile loop around nearby Dierkes Lake), as well as a handful of very short, kid-friendly strolls through the park itself.
Kayaking at Shoshone Falls
Photo: Idaho Tourism
For a closer view of the falls, you’ll need to get a little more adventurous and hop in kayak. It makes Niagara Falls’ “Maid of the Mist” look tame, as you’ll need to paddle yourself to the bottom of Shoshone for a stunning (and terrifying) view of the thundering falls. Most people rent kayaks from AWOL Adventure Sports in Centennial Waterfront Park and paddle for two to three hours down the Snake River to Shoshone. Along the way, you’ll see Pillar Falls, pass under the Perrine bridge, and take in the views of the Snake River Canyon before finally arriving at the imposing waterfall.
Other ways to explore Snake River Canyon
Photo: Sundry Photography/Shutterstock
Shoshone Falls might be the visual highlight of the area, but Snake River Canyon is definitely the adventure highlight. Whether it’s hiking, boating, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, or even golfing, there’s plenty to do to keep busy in the canyon.
Snake River Canyon is more than 50 miles long, with several waterfalls and natural springs along its length. The name might sound familiar to adrenaline fans as it was the site of Evel Knievel’s infamous 1974 jump (which was unsuccessful). And the Perrine Bridge, which crosses 500 feet above the canyon, is popular among base jumpers (which you actually can try yourself on a tandem jump).
One of the best ways to explore the canyon with a hike to Pillar Falls. It begins on Pole Line Road in Twin Falls then descends to the bottom of the canyon, where you’ll feel the refreshing spray of Pillar Falls. You can also take the trail to a section of the canyon farther east, on rugged terrain through trees and bushes. You’ll eventually arrive at a shaded camping area near the shore with great views of Perrine Bridge.
Photo: CSNafzger/Shutterstock
You can also explore the nearby Hells Canyon — the deepest river gorge in North America — on an unforgettable jet boat tour. The tour begins at Pittsburg Landing and heads upriver to see bighorn sheep and other wildlife that call the canyon home. You’ll stop at the Kirkwood Ranch and Museum, Sheep Creek Cabin, and other points of historic interest. The trip continues upriver to Rush Creek, Granite Creek, and Hells Canyon Dam, where you’ll be able to swim in the calm pools to cap off an eventful day.
For something extremely unexpected, dig up your scuba certification card and book a dive at nearby Dierkes Lake, where the deep water holds curiosities like sunken rowboats, a metal shark cutout, and a hidden treasure chest.
Camping near Shoshone Falls
Photo: Logan Carter/Shutterstock
While you can’t camp at Shoshone Falls or nearby Dierkes Lake, you don’t have to go too much further past that to find a place to pitch your tent. Book a site at the Oregon Trails Campground (5.3 miles away), the Rock Creek RV Park (8.3 miles away), or the Twin Falls KOA (10.5 miles away). Oregon Trails Campground takes online reservations and has Wi-Fi, the RV park takes reservations but is only for RVs, and the Twin Falls KOA has everything from tent sites to rental cabins, plus amenities like a pool and on-site mini golf.
You’ll also find plenty of places to backcountry camp along Snake River Canyon and further north in Boise National Forest.
How to watch the Shoshone Falls Light Show
Photo: Visit Southern Idaho
As if Shoshone Falls wasn’t gorgeous enough on it own, there’s a summer light show to make the experience extra-magical. The Shoshone Falls Light Show — technically called Shoshone Falls After Dark — only happens once a year in May or June, depending on flow. It runs for just one week and it’s essential to buy tickets in advance as it always sells out. During the 20-minute show, the falls are illuminated with multicolored lights and various patterns, putting on a dazzling display against the night sky.
Keep an eye on Southern Idaho’s tourism website for ticket announcements, and if you’re lucky enough to snag a spot, pack a flashlight and arrive about 10 minutes early to give yourself time to get to the viewing area before the show.
The best time to visit Shoshone Falls
Photo: Karin Hildebrand Lau/Shutterstock
Shoshone Falls is a year-round destination, but visit in late spring to catch the light show mentioned above. That’s also when the falls are at the peak due to snowmelt from higher elevations. The falls can look almost dried up in autumn, but fall is also a great time to explore some of southern Idaho’s area hikes or plan a backpacking trip in nearby national forests. If you’re going just to see the falls, go in spring. But otherwise, there’s plenty of nearby recreation any season. And that includes winter, too — nearby Craters of the Moon National Monument is cool any time of year, but it’s an unbeatable spot if you’re a cross-country skier come December.
Hotels near Shoshone Falls
Photo: Hotel Ketchum
Shoshone Falls is in Twin Falls, Idaho, which has all the various types of hotels and lodging you’d expect from a mid-sized town. Most hotels are chai properties with a nationwide presence like Best Western Plus, LaQuinta, or Comfort Inn and Suites. While they’re not necessarily glamorous, they’re comfortable and convenient and a good choice if you plan to spend your days recreating, rather than lounging at a resort.
However, there are a few more unique choices around town, too. You can book a glamping dome at Miracle and Banbury Hot Springs (about 30 minutes from the falls) or, if you don’t mind driving down to see the falls for a day, book a more upscale resort near Sun Valley (about 1.5 hours from Twin Falls). In Sun Valley, unique, upscale options include Sun Valley Lodge or Hotel Ketchum.
What to do in Twin Falls and around Shoshone Falls
Photo: Milner’s Gate/Facebook
While you can’t go wrong spending most of your time at the falls or Snake River Canyon, it would be a mistake not to check out what Twin Falls has to offer. For a relatively small city, Twin Falls has a thriving craft beer scene. KOTO Brewing Co. is owned by a family with deep roots in the Twin Falls community, and equally popular is Milner’s Gate, a brewery and full bar and restaurant named in honor of the Milner Dam, completed in 1905.
Your trip can take a more educational turn at the Herrett Center for Arts and Science, a natural history museum on the campus of the College of Southern Idaho with an impressive collection from the prehistoric Americas. That include s geological specimens, material relics of the Buffalo Nation, and artifacts from Peru that predate the Inca The museum also houses the Faulkner Planetarium, the largest in the state with one of the biggest wheelchair-accessible public telescopes on Earth.
You don’t have to kayak to Shoshone Falls to get a healthy dose of the outdoors on your visit to Twin Falls, either. Rock Creek Park, on the southwestern edge of the city, has 12 acres of green parkland running along the canyon. You can follow the Old Towne Rock Creek Parkway Trail from downtown Twin Falls through the park, or take advantage of facilities like a disc golf course, fishing holes, horseshoe pits, picnic tables, and volleyball courts.
If you happen to be visiting the area in early September, you’re in luck. The Twin Falls County Fair runs for five days in early September and has been a popular event since 1916. The fair has all the classics like vendors, carnival rides, livestock competitions, and country music concerts, but it also coincides with the Magic Valley Stampede PRCA Rodeo. The rodeo alone makes the trip more than worth it.
Tohono Chul Is the Desert Oasis Everyone Should Visit in Tucson
Tucson’s population of 540,000 people is scattered across more than 200 square miles of sandy urban sprawl. If your goal is to hike or mountain bike the Santa Catalina Mountains, you’ll find it takes a bit of driving past fast-food joints and housing complexes to escape civilization. But keep heading north toward Oro Valley and on your way to the Catalinas you’ll find a delightful desert oasis tucked just off SR77, across the road from urban mainstays like Whole Foods and Starbucks — the Tohono Chul gardens, galleries, and bistro. These sprawling, estate-like grounds, officially called the Tohono Chul Botanical Gardens and Galleries, is a celebration of Sonoran Desert natural habitat, art, and culture.
Tohono Chul is a must-visit destination if you’re visiting Tucson, but before you imbibe one of the bistro’s famous prickly pear margaritas, there are a few things about the gardens you should know. Start your Tohono Chul visit by wandering the desert gardens and learning about the prickly pear cactus and its fruit — pink and purplish buttons that produce sweet, nearly neon-pink juice. They’re called tunas in Spanish and they’re in season in the summer through the fall months. A chilled prickly pear margarita is even more satisfying when you know a little bit about the colorful fruit — and after you’ve wandered the park in midday sun for an hour or so.
Photo: Cathryn Castle
The story of Tohono Chul starts in the mid-1960s when its benefactors, geologist Richard Wilson and his wife Jean bought the property where the gardens are now located. Developers came calling throughout the 1970s, but the Wilsons wouldn’t sell. According to Tohono Chul’s archives, Jean said of her decision, “I don’t want to sell the land. I don’t want it cemented over. I want to preserve it.”
The pair established the nonprofit Foundation for the Preservation of Natural Areas in the early 1980s. Historical documents preserved by Tohono Chul record Jean explaining the couple’s mission: “We wanted to keep something natural in the middle of all the (surrounding) development so that people could come easily for a few hours and get out of the traffic and learn something at the same time.”
Both Jean and Richard have since passed away, but the legacy they created is thriving. Today the park is supported by donations and nominal entry fees. Volunteer docents are available to guide you, or you can grab a park map and enjoy your own adventure.
Flora and fauna at Tohono Chul ParkThe words “tohono chul” mean “desert corner” and are from the language of the early Tohono O’odham people, hardy desert-dwellers renowned for their knowledge of Sonoran plants.
Today, the curated desert garden consists of 49 acres of trails and gardens that highlight the Arizona Upland subdivision of the Sonoran Desert — one of six distinct regions of North American desert and offering more varieties of trees, shrubs, cacti, and other succulent plants. Tohono’s collection consists mostly of plants native to the region or adapted to the American Southwest, including more than 150 species of shrubs and trees, 300 species of cacti and succulents, and 50 species of wildflowers.
The Santa Catalinas rising in the distance provide the perfect backdrop for the natural experience, although it’s important to note that Tohono Chul’s location does more than provide a pleasant diversion for city folk. Wildlife have found a refuge within the gardens: Nearly 40 bird species make their permanent home here, and another 60 or so migrant species fly in and out seasonally. Other desert creatures often spotted here include jackrabbits, gila monsters and other lizards, bobcats, coyotes, and even gray foxes. Native tortoises even have their own preserve.
Just beyond the Sonoran Seasons Garden to the west is the Desert Palm Oasis, which is a careful recreation of a tropical forest found near the town of San Carlos, Mexico (six hours’ drive south of Tucson). Here, you’ll find towering tropical palm trees, including three species of fan palms. The oasis is a celebration of the Sonoran Desert’s diverse plant life.
Attractions at Tohono Chul
Photo: Nelson Sirlin/Shutterstock
While there are many botanical gardens in the United States, there is natural beauty everywhere you look at Tohono Chul Park, and the park features sculptural art created by local artists, and the entire park is set up as an educational center. The Geology Wall illustrates the geologic history of the Santa Catalina Mountains and the Saguaro Discovery Trail explains both the natural history and cultural significance of the towering cactus.
More adventurous visitors will enjoy walking the Hallowell Desert View Trail. It’s only about a half-mile long, featuring the desert in its natural state. Along the trail are two shaded ramadas with drinking fountains, but this trail is not wheelchair accessible.
The area known as Cholla Forest features “jumping” cactus that, although it doesn’t really jump, has an uncanny ability to attach to your clothing (or skin) if you happen to brush against it. The cholla cactus’ stems are covered in barbed spines. The stems detach easily, so do be careful not to get pin-cushioned. Although if you do brave the Cholla Forest, chances are you’ll see birds including the cactus wren and curve-billed thrashers — they love building their nests in the cholla. Also keep an eye out for Gambel’s quail, and the ubiquitous desert roadrunner.
Dining at the Tohono Chul Garden Bistro
Photo: Tohono Chul | Botanical Gardens & Galleries
Once your desert wandering is done, you’ll feel like you’ve earned a prickly pear margarita or two (there’s also a nonalcoholic prickly pear lemonade), or a local draft beer. The Tohono Chul Garden Bistro offers indoor, air-conditioned dining, or you can enjoy the outdoor dining area, adjacent to the Hummingbird Garden, which features a variety of plants attractive to hummingbirds. While the hummingbirds feast on the nectar of honeysuckle, agave, and salvia, you can satisfy your hunger with a classic burger and fries, brunch fare such as waffles or an omelet, or try one of the Bistro’s Sonoran-inspired dishes.
And guess what? The prickly pear margaritas are “bottomless” when ordered with an entree. The hummingbird show and the slow-going Sonoran vibe at Tohono Chul invites you to stay a while longer. Summers are long here. Hiking and mountain biking can wait.
Visiting Tohono ChulNow that you know you need to make a detour in Tuscon to stop at these gardens, there is some basic info that everyone who visits Tohono Chul gardens needs before embarking on a visit. The pratical tips for visiting the park include how much it costs to gain entrance to the park, and whether or not the park is pet friendly. Here is everything you need to know before arriving at Tohono Chul.
How much is admission to Tohono Chul?General admission for adults is $15 but if you bring a big group (10 or more people) you get a 10 percent discount. Students, seniors, and active members of the military get a $2 discount. Children ages 5 to 12 years old are only $6 (and children younger than that are free).
How big is Tohono Chul?The gardens cover 49 acres, so you should expect to do plenty of walking while you’re there. In the summer, temperatures in Tuscon can reach the upper nineties, so you can except to sweat. Wear light clothing, don’t forget to apply plenty of sunscreen, and make sure you have a full water bottle when you enter the property so you can stay hydrated as you walk. Exploring is best done safely.
Can dogs go to Tohono Chul?While service animals are more than welcome in the gardens, all other pets are not allowed on the property. While we love our canine companions, high energy animals (even if hteya re domesticated) are prone to destroying vegetation and trampling grass, flowers, and other flora and fauna. They might even hurt themselves on the many cacti in the gardens. If you’re planning to visit the gardens, best to leave your dog at home, as it is not safe to leave them in the car either.
Where: 366 Paseo del Norte, Tucson, AZ 85704
Your Music City Trip Isn’t Complete Until You Explore East Nashville
While many Nashville-bound travelers set their sights on Broadway, those in the know — particularly the locals — will inform you that East Nashville is where it’s at. Located on the opposite side of the Cumberland River, this area is beloved by creatives, foodies, and new business owners alike, thanks to its bustling ambiance and neighborhood feel. Known for vintage shops, artisanal boutiques, and loads of great places to eat and drink, it’s no surprise that this charming neighborhood is the go-to destination for those who love good food and good drinks.
What to do in East Nashville, TennesseeShop local boutiques in The Fatherland District: Countless up-and-coming creators call East Nashville home. The best way to peruse and support their crafts? Shopping locally, of course. Head to Fatherland Street between 10th and 11th Streets to browse through a handful of trendy boutiques, including Rusty Rats (antiques), Baxter Bailey & Company (pet items), Gift Horse (design and paper goods), The Nashville Blanket Project, and more.
Where: Fatherland Street between 10th and 11th
Photo: Jeremy Christensen/Shutterstock
Get your nature fix at Shelby Bottoms Park: For a nature-focused booze break (trust us, you’ll need one in Nashville) look no further than Shelby Bottoms Park. This environmental oasis has historical exhibits, beautiful gardens, and numerous trails, perfect for walking and biking alike (and bike rentals are free). The Center’s public exhibits are perfect for all ages, so feel free to bring the little ones along.
Where: 1900 Shelby Bottoms Greenway, Nashville, TN 37206
Snap a photo in front of the Kelsey Montague Art Mural: For a perfect souvenir photo fit for the ‘gram, head to Nashville’s Kelsey Montague Art Mural. Pose in front of the mural’s famed wings—whether solo or with a friend—for a keepsake memory to last a lifetime. At 20 feet high, Montague’s “WhatLiftsYou” mural is the largest of her creations to date – it took 60 paint pens to complete.
Where: 302 11th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
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Check out the art at Red Arrow Gallery: For a dose of culture, head to Red Arrow Gallery, located on Gallatin Avenue. Situated in an industrial-style space, this female-operated venue highlights contemporary artists in an approachable and accessible way. Whether seasoned collector or art novice, Red Arrow promises to please a variety of preferences and provide a lovely experience all around.
Where: 919 Gallatin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206
Make a custom souvenir candle at The Candle Bar Gulch: Who doesn’t love a good souvenir candle, especially one that you can make yourself? At The Candle Bar, let your souvenir-crafting dreams come to life. This Paddywax Candle Bar is the perfect backdrop for gathering with friends, connecting with locals, and creating something long lasting and unique to take home. Customize your perfect scent and let the friendly staff lead the way.
Where: 408 11th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
Where to Eat and Drink in East NashvilleNashville Biscuit House: Asking after Nashville’s best biscuit can get a bit heated, though many locals will tell you that Nashville Biscuit House is where it’s at. Known for its homestyle cooking and emphasis on the classics, this robust breakfast joint is absolutely not to be missed. Expect fast service and ample food served up by a team of friendly, hospitable staff – and be sure to grab the classic chicken biscuits. Note: Nashville Biscuit House is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays; hours from Thursday through Monday are 6:45 AM until 1 PM.
Where: 805 Gallatin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206
Photo: Emily Dorio
Audrey: Located on a quiet street in McFerrin Park, Audrey is an absolute must for those seeking good food, great wine, and unforgettable hospitality. The flagship restaurant of celebrity chef Sean Brock, this Appalachian-inspired restaurant offers a well-curated tasting menu, with a focus on seasonal produce and innovative fare. Expect innovative takes on classic favorites, including Jimmy red corn grits, Maine lobster, and greasy beans. Named for his grandmother, Audrey, this unmissable restaurant is one of Brock’s most personal yet. Fine dining lovers, don’t miss this one (and be sure to partake in the menu’s fantastic wine pairing options, curated by renowned sommelier Jodi Brochtein).
Where: 809 Meridian St, Nashville, TN 37207
Southern Grist Brewing Company – East Nashville Taproom: Local breweries are a good stop in any major city in the United States, and in Nashville, there are plenty to choose from. In East Nashville, Southern Grist’s taproom is a no-brainer. Although the company was founded in 2016, their taproom opened its doors in December 2021 and focuses on creative, small-batch brews in an ever-rotating lineup (non-alcoholic options are also available). The taproom’s vast outdoor seating makes it the perfect place to grab some fresh air and kick off a long night of eating and drinking.
Where: 754 Douglas Ave, Nashville, TN 37207
Photo: John Troxel
June: Situated above Audrey, this newly opened restaurant from Sean Brock’s team features a five-course menu broken down by canapé, water, land, dessert, and petits-fours. Along with world-class food, there’s a focused drinks program that offers curated drinks only available during the course for which they’re intended to pair with – think tasting-sized drinks crafted to flow with the flavors and ingredients of the course. With only 32 seats, June offers an intimate journey for every guest that walks through the door. Brock states that his goal for June is to “always push the boundary with what is possible for Southern food and hospitality.”
Where: 809 Meridian St, Nashville, TN 37207
Dino’s Bar & Grill: For late night noshing, Dino’s Bar & Grill is a long-standing local favorite that has been vetted by countless neighborhood residents. It has grown into the go-to place for late night burgers, fries, and cheap beer. Fair warning, seating is limited and you may encounter a wait, but when the drunchies call, greasy food is simply the only response.
Where: 411 Gallatin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206
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Folk: Set in a large, airy space with exposed brick walls and high ceilings, this beloved Italian restaurant is known for its seasonal fare and woodfired pizza (insider tip: the clam pie is not to be missed). Spearheaded by Chef Philip Krajeck, the chef and owner of Rolf & Daughter’s, Folk’s impressive menu is only outshone by its stellar wine and cocktail list. Best of all, the restaurant is literally right next door to June and Audrey – post (or pre, no judgment) dinner pie, anyone?
Where: 823 Meridian St, Nashville, TN 37207
Pearl Diver: Known for tropical drinks and tasty snacks, Pearl Diver is a must-visit for fans of tacos, sammies, and hearty bowls alike. Local fan favorites include the Tijuana fries, veggie egg rolls, pineapple fried rice bowl, and hot chicken tacos. The bar’s extensive cocktail list is organized by base spirit (sugarcane, agave, and grape & grain are the major ones), with a hearty classic cocktail list to boot. You won’t leave here hungry — or thirsty, for that matter.
Where: 1008 Gallatin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206
Where to Stay
Photo: Jody Domingue
The Dive Motel & Swim Club: For an instant escape to the funky 1970s, look no further than The Dive Motel & Swim Club. Located on Dickerson Pike, this retro-style motel is beloved for its cold drinks, heated pool, and unmatchable vibes. It’s one of the accommodation options that’s making Nashville a hotspot for quirky-cool boutique hotels. Each room comes outfitted with a Party Switch, which activates 1970s classics and disco lights with the flick of a switch. Simple and quaint, the rooms come equipped with an on-site mini bar, featuring snacks, drinks, toiletries – and even condoms and mini vibrators for purchase. Oh, and then there’s the fact that each room has its own disco ball.
In addition to the groovy bar, The Dive Motel also has an on-site food truck, featuring Bao biscuits and Asian-inspired comfort food favorites. Grab a frozen bevvy, post up at the pool, and let yourself be whisked away on a journey back in time.
Where: 1414 Dickerson Pike, Nashville, TN 37207
The best Airbnbs in Seattle
Seattle is home to famed attractions including Pike Place Market and the Space Needle. It’s where the grunge scene broke from dark dives into the mainstream sound of the nineties, and one of the few places in the United States where you can wander hallways lined with Chihuly glassworks, catch a rock show, and eat the day’s freshest oysters, all in one outing. To do so, you’ll need to be properly positioned — and these are the best Airbnb Seattle options in the coolest Seattle neighborhoods to experience the city in depth.
We hope you love the Airbnb Seattle properties 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.
Houseboat Airbnbs in SeattleWhen staying near the coast, you might as well stay on the water. These houseboat Airbnbs in Seattle, or more accurately, just offshore of Seattle, make that possible.
Seattle houseboat stay on the water
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This wooden boat is what on-water dreams are made of. Right at Ballard/Fremont, you can hop on shore and stroll to some of Seattle’s best restaurants and nightlife, before retreating to your houseboat to rock yourself to sleep. The interior is well-kept and comfortable, and with the benefit of the attached kayak, you and your partner can make your way up and down the water with ease.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $86 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
With a nice elevated patio and a modern interior, this Seattle houseboat Airbnb offers up all the trimmings you’d expect at Lake Powell, right here at Lake Union. The Seattle houseboat rental comes with two kayaks to explore the surrounding waters, and when you do decide to hang out onshore, the entertainment and dining of the Lake Union area are within walking distance. Get out to Orcas Island easily on the nearby ferry.
Two guests, one bedroom
Airbnbs in West SeattleWest Seattle puts you close to the sound, Pike Place Market, and much of downtown. This is a great area if walkability is a priority but you don’t want to sacrifice neighborhood vibes, as opposed to simply placing yourself among the high rises.
Modern Airbnb Seattle apartment with Space Needle view
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Modern Seattle is a destination for foodies, for wine enthusiasts, and for those who appreciate a contemporary touch when it comes to interior and exterior design. This apartment satisfies all of the above, as it is close to farm-to-table dining and the Chihuly museum. The Space Needle itself is visible from the window — an easy wayfinding point for you throughout your stay. If you can see the Space Needle, you can get back to the apartment. This is a great property for escaping on day trips near Seattle.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $147 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Upon reading the title of this property, you may have thought we’d fallen off the map and re-appeared thousands of miles away on the other side of the Atlantic. But we’re still in Seattle — and this is one of the best Seattle Airbnbs for those seeking relaxation. Take advantage of the Finnish sauna, soak in the saltwater tub, and then take a nap outside in the grass — it’s an oasis for the wellness-inclined in the middle of the big city.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $205 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Often overlooked by visitors caught up in all the oysters, coffee, and live music, Seattle is actually one of the most picturesque big cities in the US. This apartment in southwest Seattle encapsulates the best of the views, looking out over Alki Beach onto Elliot’s Bay and the mountains beyond. You may see whales. You will certainly see ships passing by between Bainbridge Island and downtown Seattle, as you take in the bustle of the city from one of its most picturesque vantage points. This is a great property for easy access to the airport as well (if you have an early flight, check out these SeaTac hotels).
Two guests, studio
Price: $221 per night
If Pike Place Market and the heart of the city center are your priorities, an Airbnb in downtown Seattle is the place to be. From here, you can walk or take the train anywhere you need to go.
Belltown neighborhood condo with Elliott Bay views
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Part of any urban adventure is gazing out at the cityscape, preferably from an elevated position. You can do just that from this luxe apartment. Here you have an Airbnb Seattle masterpiece with the bonus of not needing to depend on the city’s unreliable weather to enjoy it. The city presents itself in grand fashion through the large living room windows gazing out over Elliot Bay. When you do wish to venture out to explore, the location is ideally set between the Pike Place Market (here are the best hotels near the Pike Place Market) and the Space Needle, with ample options to stop for lunch, a brew, or a photo op in between.
Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $253 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
You can have your cake and eat it too, and this downtown Seattle suite is proof — central location, walkable to restaurants, music venues, parks, and Pike Place Market, but also with the stunning optics of the Space Needle visible out the window. On-site is a pool, hot tub, and parking, each a win in its own right as anyone who has ever lived in a city can attest to. And for the price, there’s no better option to ensure you can spend your budget taking in the food culture and sights having not drained it all by booking lodging.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $101 per night
Seattle’s Capitol Hill is an area steeped in history and modernity. It’s at once rich in Pacific Northwest culture, but also a good spot to base yourself for urban experiences.
Mini-mansion in heart of Capitol Hill
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Within walking distance to everything in Seattle’s vibrant Capitol Hill neighborhood, this mini-mansion is the best place to be. It’s got room for your entire crew and comes trimmed with modern amenities. Stroll just north to Volunteer Park and visit the Asian Art Museum and take in sights of the city from the Water Tower Observation Deck, a peaceful alternative to the Space Needle. At home, enjoy plenty of space to lounge, a yard, and easy access to the best restaurants in the city.
Eleven guests, six bedrooms
Price: $960 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Seattle is a place imbued with a rebellious, artistic spirit, from the grunge era to the kilns and easels of the Historic Central Area Arts & Cultural District. What makes this apartment one of the best Seattle Airbnbs is that you can sleep amongst the products of that spirit. Double-height windows illuminate artworks throughout the day. The fact that the apartment itself is super chic and modern — and close to Uptown, downtown, and Capitol Hill — makes it a slam dunk of Durant-esque proportions (sorry, Sonics fans).
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $167 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
As is the case in many major American cities, Broadway in Seattle is a cultural hub of unparalleled proportions. Kurt Cobain himself undoubtedly strolled its banks once or twice back in the day, and combine this with the home’s Capitol Hill roots and you have the makings of a top-tier Seattle stay. This house is a great place to stay for sports and music fans as there are ample clubs, venues, and stadiums within walking distance. Off-street parking is included, and if you don’t have a car, the light rail is a few minutes’ walk.
Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $267 per night
Everything looks better when viewed from above. This is especially true in the Pacific Northwest, where the trees are taller and the scenery lusher.
Urban treehouse Airbnb in Seattle
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Treehouses tend to pop up in the forest. This one is an exception, putting you up among the branches right in the heart of the city. You’ll be just off Lake Washington and only eight miles from downtown, but with the luxe amenities on the inside and natural surroundings outside, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into North Cascades National Park.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $219 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Near Redmond, about a half hour from Seattle, this unique property is the best treehouse Airbnb near Seattle. It’s cozy, warm, and the perfect retreat into nature after your time in the big city. You’ll love the modern aesthetic and easy access to hiking trails and other cool outdoor activities in Redmond.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $237 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
The best way to get to know a city is to experience its neighborhoods. This bright cottage is a good place for just that, located in a residential area but not lacking in amenities including a quick drive to the coast. The surrounding Fairmont Park and West Seattle neighborhoods host some of the city’s top restaurants including Mashiko for sushi and the Italian-inspired Raccolto. You’ll be inspired by the ease of access to kayaking and swimming, picnicking in the surrounding parks, and relaxing after checking out the tourist hotspots on the other side of Harbor Island, including Pike Place Market and downtown.
Three guests, studio
Price: $152 per night
This Windjammer Cruise Along the Coast of Maine Is the Most New England Experience Ever
You may think you’ve already seen the coast of New England, but we can guarantee you’ve never seen from the deck of a windjammer. A windjammer cruise in Maine offers a rare opportunity to sleep, dine, and be entertained while island hopping throughout Downeast and Midcoast Maine on a one-of-a-kind vintage vessel.
Photo: Willy Ritch
Maine is home to the country’s largest collection of historical sailing vessels which make up the Maine Windjammer Association fleet. The nine vessels in the fleet of traditionally-rigged sailboats offer overnight guests the opportunity to see Maine from an unforgettable perspective. All vessels in the fleet are independently owned and operated and many are National Historic Landmarks, with some hailing from the late 1800s and some built more recently. Each has a storied history with distinct characteristics and a unique layout, all of which your captain will be excited to share details of during your journey.
Concerned about the environmental impact of cruising? Take comfort in knowing that taking a windjammer cruise in Maine is a more sustainable way to travel than driving or cruising on a large ship. Many of the vessels in the fleet do not have engines and those that do use the power of wind as often as possible. Not only does windjamming in Maine offer a more earth-friendly adventure, but you will be able to explore more harbors due to the smaller vessel size.
A traditional trip from MidCoast Maine
Photo: Lisa Luken
Set sail from either Rockland or Camden, which are two of MidCoast Maine’s beautiful coastal towns. Choose from two to ten-night cruises which sail from late May through Mid-October. Some have specific agendas, such as attending a festival, participating in a race, or gathering with other vessels for a special event, yet most offer an unscripted journey along the coast where the captain charts each day’s sail based on the water and the wind. Because of this, a rough day at sea is rare.
Windjammer Days FestivalOur six-night adventure aboard the Angelique took us down the coast of Maine to Boothbay Harbor for the 60th annual Windjammer Days Festival. Alongside two other Maine Windjammer Association vessels, Heritage and American Eagle, we carefully zig-zagged our way into the harbor for the festival’s gathering of the fleet. A crowd of spectators cheered from the shore, snapping pictures as the windjammers made their entrance and took center stage. A fife and drum band atop a day-tour boat serenaded us as we anchored in the harbor for this mid-week event. Boats filled with enthusiastic festival goers circled around us for an up-close look at the impressive vessels.
The week-long festival, held each year at the end of June, celebrates maritime history with activities on-shore and off. A variety of events for visitors of all ages take place throughout the week including a lighted boat parade, a crab cake cookoff, a pancake breakfast, cannon lessons for young pirates, a lobster eating contest, cod fish races, and daytime and sunset sails for those not quite ready to dive into an overnight excursion on a windjammer. There is truly something for everyone.
The 2022 festival celebrated the women of the working waterfront in honor of the festival’s founder Marion Dash, who was the first woman on the Maine coast to receive a captain’s license. Kim Gillies, a volunteer committee member with the Windjammer Days Festival, shared that Windjammer Days was born when Marion and her husband, captain David Dash noticed a gathering of windjammers tucked into the harbor, patiently waiting for the fog to lift so they could safely return to sea. From that point on, Marion and David decided to welcome windjammers from across New England to gather in the harbor each year.
Photo: Lisa Luken
After the windjammers had their moment of glory arriving in the harbor, the festivities shifted shoreside to the parade that worked its way through town. Guests aboard the windjammers got to continue the pomp and circumstance with a row to shore to stretch our seafaring legs, do some shopping, and watch the parade. We felt like movie stars walking the red carpet as we stepped onto the dock and headed into town. Being part of the exclusive group of visitors arriving at the festival by windjammer is a highlight of a windjammer cruise in Maine.
It had been 25 years since the Angelique sailed into the festival with her guests since the Maine Windjammer Association vessels take turns participating each year. As part of the festival celebration, guests aboard the windjammers were also invited to attend the Cabbage Island Lobster bake the night prior for an unforgettable feast of lobster, chowder, steamers, corn on the cob, baked potatoes, and blueberry cake. The day’s events ended with an epic sunset followed by a firework display out in the harbor. Of course, the windjammer guests got the best seats in the house.
While onboard, embrace doing little or a lot — you chooseWhen you board your vessel and set off on your cruise, be prepared to exchange your day-to-day routine and life responsibilities for a decision-free trip. Your captain and crew have all details covered, from accommodations, to food, to sightseeing, and more. While you won’t be required to check your cell phone at the dock when you arrive, you will want to switch it off and forget the rest of the world as you take in the joys of sailing.
Settling into life on board, you will discover that you can do as little or as much as you wish each day. If you’re feeling energetic, you can help the crew raise and lower the sails and rowboats or even help prepare meals. If you just want to relax, simply let the days pass by while lounging on the 95-foot deck with a good book, or pop down to your cabin to nap whenever you wish.
Photo: Lisa Luken
Below deck on the Angelique are 15 guest cabins, each with a private sink plus ample linens and towels. There is plenty of headroom to stand in your cabin before settling into bed. Guests share three “heads” located throughout the boat which include toilets and freshwater showers. Another shower on the deck offers the opportunity to rinse off after a day at sea.
Photo: Lisa Luken
If you’ve come to Maine hoping to see wildlife, you are in luck. While on board, be on the lookout for seals sunbathing on the islands, porpoises swimming alongside the boat, whales spouting out in the distance, and bald eagles nesting in pines along the coast. Feeling a bit dare-devilish? Jump off the bow for a refreshing cool down on hot summer days while the windjammer is anchored. For a slower-paced adventure, hop on a paddle board and explore the area.
Who knew you could eat so well on a Windjammer cruise in Maine?While each day unfolds spontaneously, one experience is guaranteed, you will be well fed. Wake up to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee followed by blueberry pancakes and smoked bacon for breakfast. Homemade soup and salad alongside fresh-baked bread will satisfy your lunch cravings but make sure you save room for “lunch dessert.” As evening sets in, prepare for appetizers followed by dinner and dessert (again), which might include ice cream made by the captain himself. Don’t worry about missing a meal, because the sound of the chef ringing the dinner bell will grab your attention as he announces what he has prepared.
Photo: Lisa Luken
The daily farm-to-boat dining experiences all feature food sourced from local farms. A windjammer cruise in Maine is not complete without lobster, which you will get to enjoy at a traditional Maine lobster bake included on your cruise. Your captain will drop anchor near one of Maine’s 2000-plus islands where the crew will prepare this unforgettable feast.
The excursions are just as fun as the sailingThe island lobster bake is just one opportunity to step off the boat. As each day’s course unfolds, your captain will choose villages to visit along the state’s 3000-plus mile coastline. A quick row to shore and you’ll be off sightseeing, shopping, or grabbing ice cream from a local business. If you want to get some steps in, hike through the pines along one of the state’s many coastal trails. You might even get to search for sea glass or the perfect shell at a nearby beach. Back on board and before settling in for the night, your captain will invite you to gather around a map to share details and answer questions about the day’s sail.
Embrace the slowness of windjammer cruise in MaineAs evening sets in, embrace the slow pace of the vessel and enjoy a front-row seat to a 360-degree sunset. While the sky transforms, you’re free to choose how to wind down for the evening. Gather with new friends below deck for an evening of cards and board games. Or cozy up on the deck with a blanket while a crew member plays guitar or piano in the deckhouse (if you’re on the Angelique). Soak in the magic of the whole experience as you gaze at the dark night sky and get lost in the stars before heading down to your cabin.
You’ll share the experience with only a few travelers and an exceptional crew
Photo: Lisa Luken
As you embrace the slow pace of the journey, you will get to know the like-minded adventurers onboard with you. Vessels in the fleet vary in size, carrying between 16-40 guests along with four to 10 crew members. Your sailing family is likely to be an energetic, well-traveled group, spanning decades in age. Many guests are likely to be repeat customers who have fallen in love with windjamming. These well-seasoned guests appreciate the opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and spend time in nature while learning skills that can’t be learned elsewhere. Most live outside of Maine and choose to seize the opportunity to experience the state in a unique way. First-time windjamming guests take comfort in knowing that many fellow guests keep coming back year after year (like some of those aboard Angelique who were back for their 17th and 39th cruises!)
Captain Dennis and the crew aboard the Angelique thrive on watching life-long friendships form as stories are shared and connections are made. While guests arrive happy to be on vacation, the crew excels at keeping this energy flowing. They want their guests to have unforgettable experiences. Their love for sailing and Maine are evident, as they tell stories and answer questions about the history of sailing, the names of islands, the legends of lighthouses, and more.
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