Matador Network's Blog, page 448
July 14, 2022
Craving a Bali Beach Getaway? Consider These Alternative Islands in Indonesia
Whether planning a solo backpacking adventure or a picture-perfect honeymoon, the island of Bali continues to rank high on travelers’ bucket lists. While its beautiful beaches and verdant rice fields are worth seeing, there are over 17,500 other islands in the Indonesian archipelago, including three of the world’s largest — Java, Bali’s neighbor to the West, Sumatra, and Borneo. Stretching from neighboring Malaysia to West Papua, each island of Indonesia carries its own unique culture, customs, and cuisine to explore. While it would be nearly impossible to visit all of these islands in a lifetime, you can get started by easily hopping over to Lombok, Sumba, or the Southern Gilis from Bali via a short flight or ferry ride. Even better, visit the Bali islands of Lembongan or Nusa Penida — visible from the shores of Bali’s Sanur neighborhood. No matter which island you select, we’ve outlined why it’s worth a visit and what to see and do while there.
Lembongan
Photo: Constantin
Stanciu/Shutterstock
Part of the three islands that make up Bali’s Nusa Penida district, Lembongan, is a small island located to the Southeast of Bali and accessible via a 30-minute speedboat ride from Sanur harbor. Tickets go for about $20 one-way and you can purchase them online or at the harbor. Upon arrival, it’s easy to organize scooter rentals from one of the many local vendors who meet visitors right on the beach. Once rented, bikers used to Bali’s traffic will be relieved to encounter quieter roads and far fewer cars.
Photo: Sandy Bay
A trip to Lembongan involves days spent sunning, swimming, and dining at beach clubs like Sandy Bay or Ohana’s.
Photo: Sandy Bay
The island is popular for its snorkeling, thanks to warm, clear waters and shallow reefs at places like Crystal Bay or Mangrove Point. You can even hire a boat to shuttle you out to neighboring Nusa Penida’s famed Manta Point, where snorkelers will almost always encounter these angels of the sea gliding through the waters beneath Penida’s towering cliffs.
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
We recommend bedding down at Lembongan Cliff Villas, which offers one of the best Westerly views for sunsets over the sea and volcanoes of Bali. If you’re traveling with a large group, the newly opened beach house at Lago is among the nicest private villas in all of Bali. The property features five bedrooms, a private pool, a semi-private beach, and its own solar-powered party pontoon for some revelry on the water.
Nusa Penida
Photo: Visit Indonesia/Jerry Aurum
Photo: Visit Indonesia/Jerry Aurum
The namesake of Bali’s island district, Nusa Penida — known locally as, simply, Penida (Nusa means “island” in Balinese) — also happens to be one of Bali’s most Instagrammed locations, thanks to its surreal landscapes of jungled cliffs and picturesque, white-sand beaches.
Similar to Lembongan, Penida is a 45-minute ferry ride from Sanur Harbor at a slightly higher price, with easy scooter rentals also available upon arrival.
Photo: Denis Moskvinov/Shutterstock
Penida is ideal for thrill-seekers. Most reefs are deeper here, so underwater sight-seeing is best done by scuba, though fast currents can make it unsafe for beginners. Advanced divers will enjoy rapid drift dives, flying superman-style over colorful reefs alive with fish, turtles, moray eels, and reef sharks. We recommend Octopus Dive for its friendly staff and tasty post-dive lunch offerings. Out of the water, Penida’s dramatic cliffs make for some memorable photos. Some of its most social media-famous spots include Kelingking and Diamond cliffs and Atuh Beach.
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
After a day of adventuring, catch the sunset while enjoying pizza, beers, and board games at Amok before checking into your private tent at Autentik, a glamping resort in the jungles of Penida. Guests here are immersed in nature, without sacrificing creature comforts like AC and some of the island’s best breakfast food.
Lombok
Photo: Visit Indonesia/Fransishu Asisi
Photo: Visit Indonesia/Fransishu Asisi
Photo: Visit Indonesia/Fransishu Asisi
Despite claiming some world-class surf breaks, beaches, and biological diversity that rivals Bali’s, the similarly sized island of Lombok remains an under-the-radar destination. That might change soon, as its word-of-mouth reputation as “the next Bali’’ continues to spread. Indeed, this year saw the island welcome its first MotoGP race on a brand-new track in Kuta Lombok, and excitement around its tourism potential — especially as over-tourism in Bali grows to untenable levels — has led to a flurry of development along its southern beaches.
Photo: Visit Indonesia/Fransishu Asisi
Photo: Visit Indonesia/Setiadi Dermawan
Photo: Visit Indonesia/Fransishu Asisi
Lombok’s size means there’s something for every type of traveler. Mount Rinjani, the third largest of Indonesia’s over 100 volcanoes, looms large on the North side of the island and is a favorite among hikers for the trail’s dazzling natural vistas — including the vivid blue Lake Segara Anak. To the South, in Kuta Lombok, yogis flock to Ashtari or eco-friendly Mana for mindful, meditative retreats. Surfers will make the two to three-hour drive from Kuta Lombok, along one of Indonesia’s most scenic mountain highways, to reach Desert Point. Its near-perfect surf break is a favorite of the likes of Kelly Slater and Gabriel Medina.
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
If you’re heading to North Lombok, grab a room by the beach at Hotel Tugu. The privately owned and designed hotel serves as an ode to Indonesia’s romantic history and culture and features a collection of local artworks and antiques throughout the property. To the South, the newly opened and well-received Amazing Lombok serves as a perfect home base for visiting the beautiful beaches of Selong Belanak and the restaurants and nightlife of Kuta Lombok.
Southern Gilis
Photo: travelwild/Shutterstock
Unlike its hard-partying neighbors to the North, the Southern Gilis are relatively unexplored and, thus, unspoiled. The lack of crowds, paired with a ban on motor traffic across the islands, make them ideal for travelers seeking some peace and tranquility.
Photo: biletskiyevgeniy.com/Shutterstock
Consisting of 14 tiny islands to the Southwest of Lombok, the three largest of the Southern Gilis are Gili Asahan, Gili Layar, and Gili Gede. There are no bridges (hence no motor vehicles), so all tourists arrive the same way — via a small outrigger boat from the main island. Unsurprisingly, the islands are a draw for nature-lovers, with activities centered around sunbathing or exploring the islands’ wealth of underwater wildlife.
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Some of the best snorkeling in the Southern Gilis is on the reef just in front of Pearl Beach Resort on Gili Asahan. If food is your priority, however, head to Italian-owned Gili Asahan Eco Lodge, which serves delicious and authentic pizza, pasta, and gelato. On Gili Gede, the largest of the Southern Gilis, Kokomo Resort has stylish villas and friendly staff, who will arrange a romantic dinner at the end of their pier out on the water for you. Kokomo also avoids using plastic on the property in order to preserve the island’s pristine paradise.
Sumba
Photo: Visit Indonesia/Mananga Abba
Photo: Visit Indonesia/Mananga Abba
Photo: Visit Indonesia/Mananga Abba
Even further afield and wilder than Lombok is the island of Sumba. Sumba is home to one of the world’s top-rated luxury resorts, Nihi, a fact that has contributed to its growing reputation among travel enthusiasts in recent years.
Photo: Visit Indonesia/Mananga Abba
Most beach-front hotels, homestays, and resorts, including Nihi, are along the Southern coastline, a minimum two to three-hour drive from the island’s two major airports, Tambolaka and Umbu Mehang Kunda Kijing. A flight from Bali is just one or two hours, depending on the airport, and will cost around $150 or $300. From there, the long drive winds past several local villages with distinctive tall roofs on all the buildings. The design is ubiquitous across Sumba and was built this way in order to honor the Marapu or ancestor spirits of the local villagers. While most visitors will make this long journey for the island’s beaches and surf, Sumba also has some of the country’s most beautiful waterfalls worth checking out.
Photo: Visit Indonesia/Mananga Abba
Photo: Visit Indonesia/Mananga Abba
Photo: Visit Indonesia/Mananga Abba
It’s important to note that the Sumbanese people are among the poorest indigenous populations in Indonesia, so seek accommodations that work to inject greater wealth and opportunity into the local economy. One such place is the family-owned Ngalang Kalla Eco Retreat, which is known as much for its locally and sustainably grown food as for its dramatic location. The retreat sits atop a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, yet still provides easy access to one of the island’s best surf breaks. 
This Soho Hotel Has One of the Best Pool Decks in New York City
As a regular person from New Jersey, who typically has to save up and plan meticulously before lavish vacations and even short getaways, I don’t spend a ton of time in Soho. The trendy New York City neighborhood is known for its upscale hotels, shopping, and stylish restaurants, and feels exclusive and inaccessible. But when I had the chance to stay at The Dominick hotel, a five-star hotel in Soho, I jumped at the opportunity to cosplay as a sophisticated New Yorker. And the experience was more satisfying, and more fun, than I could have anticipated.
The Dominick Hotel it should be mentioned is not in the heart of Soho, but more accurately located on the border between Tribeca and Soho. In fact, the entrance to the Lincoln Tunnel is right around the corner (which is great for me, a person arriving from the Garden State). To be clear, that doesn’t mean that the ambiance of the neighborhood is drowned out by a constant stream of traffic. On the contrary, the hotel is located on a quiet block and once you get inside the hotel, ambient city noises are muffled. It’s an immediate relief to feel secluded from chaos just outside the hotel’s double doors.
Even though The Dominick hotel isn’t in the midst of Soho, it’s still fair to say it’s centrally located. Guests can walk out the door and explore not just Soho, but the West Village and Greenwich Village neighborhoods.
In fact, once my partner and I checked in, we strapped our daughter into her stroller and walked all the way to Washington Square Park before heading back to the hotel. We settled at an outdoor table at Altro Paradiso, a chic Italian restaurant down the street from The Dominick that offers simple but refined dishes perfect for summer eating — and as a plus side, it’s across the street from a Ducati dealership so you watch people test out bikes while you sip your drink.
But no matter what you’re in the mood the eat, you have the most fashionable options at your fingertips: The Dominick is within walking distance to famous New York city restaurants, cafes, and bakeries, that both people who are visiting and who live in the city (or nearby) will want to try including The Dutch, Sant Ambroeus, Sugarfish, Dominique Ansel Bakery, and Laduree.
Okay, so the surrounding neighborhoods are a huge reason to stay at The Dominick, but does the hotel itself live up to its five-star promise? The answer is an unequivocal yes; this hotel is the epitome of luxury.
Photo: The Dominick Hotel
My family stayed in the SoHi one-bedroom suite, which features a living room and a master bedroom, as well as a bathroom with a shower and bathtub (more on that soon). As soon as we opened the blinds, we were both stunned into silence. From our room we could see all the way up to Times Square, from the living room, the skyline of Jersey City spread out before our eyes.
View from the master bedroom. Photo: Elisabeth Sherman
One thing to note for families is that if you’re staying with kids, and you have the means, you might strongly consider booking one of these suites. A sliding door separates the living room from the bedroom, so once the kids are in bed, the adults can order dinner or watch television without being disruptive. The only downside to this otherwise perfect hotel room is that, oddly, the bathroom doesn’t have a door (the toilet at least as its own enclosed space within the bathroom), so you can’t really shower or brush your teeth without disturbing whoever is sleeping in the bed.
Photo: The Dominick Hotel
Now about that tub: It’s deep and big enough to feel like a mini jacuzzi and I can say honestly that the room was worth it for that bathtub alone, especially because tubs feel like such a rare luxury in hotel rooms these days. Parents pay attention: Lounging in the tub sipping champagne is about as relaxed as I’ve felt since my daughter was born.
View from the bathtub. Photo: Elisabeth Sherman
If you plan to spend a lot of time in your room, room service is a must — though be warned that it’s expensive. Room service tends to be hit or miss at hotels, in my experience, but at The Dominick hotel you’ll get decadent bolognese, syrupy banana pancakes, and flakey croissant sandwiches that match the hotel’s opulent personality.
Breakfast. Photo: Elisabeth Sherman
And now for the hotel’s coup de grâce: Terrace on 7, which encompasses the hotel’s heavenly pool deck and restaurant, El Ta’Koy. Loungers are first come first serve for guests, but other than that, the energy on the pool deck is focused on secluded, quiet relaxation.
Photo: The Dominick Hotel
The pool itself isn’t long or wide enough for lap swimmers or anyone else who might want to use it for exercise, so really its purpose is reserved for taking a dip to cool down, or lounge with friends while sipping a drink.
The street view is blocked by a high wall and lush greenery so you’re protected from the noise of traffic and anyone who might want to spy from the sidewalk, giving Terrace on 7 an intimate, even cozy vibe. The watermelon daiquiri and frozen pina colada just add to the overall feeling that at the pool you’re escaping from every stress of city life — here, you’re pampered and getting a little buzzed. It’s great.
There were some older kids splashing around the pool when I was there, but they didn’t disturb the energy, and I brought my daughter to the pool at one point without any awkwardness. However, the vibe on Terrace on 7 is more geared toward adults and day drinking.
Though we did pass a few other kids at the hotel, I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s a very kid-friendly environment — they don’t have cribs on hand for parents, for instance, which is an amenity I’ve encountered at many other luxury hotels. I did feel that this is a place where adults go to get away from responsibilities.
Overall, however, The Dominick is comfortable, luxurious, and quiet. It costs a lot, obviously, but every moment spent there feels like you’re getting your money’s worth. If I’m going to stay somewhere expensive, I want to feel like royalty the whole time I’m there. And at The Dominick hotel, I promise, you will.
July 13, 2022
Where To Find the Best Beaches in Maui
Asking what the best beaches in Maui are is like asking what the best pizzas in New York City are. Sure, people (and especially locals) will have an opinion, but good luck trying to find a consensus. And the reason why is simple: everyone has different preferences. While some who head to the Hawaiian island’s beaches might want to snorkel, others might want to spot wildlife, and still others might want to catch a wave break. And experienced surfers aren’t going to always value the same spots as beginners.
This is something that Ric Rodriguez knows well. A Jean-Michel Cousteau-trained naturalist with the Ambassadors of the Environment at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, Rodriguez is deeply familiar with Maui’s beaches. It doesn’t hurt that the 54-acre resort has easy access to a number of beaches and bays on the popular leeward half of the island that runs from the northwest to the southeast.
“For me, the most quintessential Maui beach day actually starts deep within the valley, volunteering within the Ahupua’a (the Hawaiian concept that speaks to watersheds, the connection between land and sea, and our responsibility to steward the land) to restore the land to its natural state by removing invasive species,” Rodriguez says.
From there, the coastline is just across the highway — and there is a wide range of beaches to choose from on said coastline. We tapped Rodriguez to narrow down the best Maui beaches, whether your looking for what to do on your first time to Hawaii or on your hundredth time.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Matador Network: In your opinion, what side of Maui has the best beaches?Ric Rodriguez: In my opinion, Maui’s leeward side has all the best beaches. If you want to swim, snorkel, do any number of water sports, and enjoy the beach, then the leeward, or downwind, side has the absolute best beaches to enjoy. Up in the northwest, just south of Kapalua Bay, we can find a seemingly endless string of intimate and charming beaches, bright turquoise waters, and a whole underwater world to explore just beneath the surface.
What is the best Maui beach for surfers, whether they’re novices and experts?
Photo: Zane Vergara/Dave Heath
The beauty of the entire leeward side is that, depending on the conditions of the day, you could have the perfect day for snorkeling (waves barely noticeable, water glassy and clear like a pool), the perfect day for an introductory lesson in surfing (small, consistent, and welcoming waves that are sure to grant you your first ride), and the perfect day for expert riding (epic swells, fun sets, and tons of camaraderie on the water).
For true beginners, I like to recommend Olowalu. As a long open stretch of beach, there is plenty of space to learn without fear of overcrowding. Plus, once you’re done with the surf, it’s an excellent place to chill, have a picnic, and enjoy your day. Home to some of the oldest coral reef systems in Hawaii, Olowalu packs the perfect punch for an adventure day.
What is the best Maui beach to see wildlife?
Photo: Bandersnatch/Dave Heath
In my opinion, the best beach to see wildlife is down south at Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve. As a protected land and marine site, the wildlife has the space it needs to flourish and thrive without human interference or pollution, and thus the flora and fauna are a marvel to see. Every time I’ve been, I have had the joy of observing hundreds of fish, eagle rays, and eels, and I always observe a species I’ve never encountered. It is worth the trip.
Kapalua Bay has gotten a lot of press — do you think that there’s anything that people generally miss that makes the spot so great?There are a ton of hidden gems throughout the Kapalua Bay area. Truthfully, Kapalua’s best kept secret is our adventure program located at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua. The Jean-Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment program seeks to engage our guests very differently than the average tour on Maui. While they’re all fun, what differentiates our program is the authentic, tailored, and connected experiences that we create for each and every participant. Never exceeding a maximum capacity of eight individuals, our programs are exclusive, personal, and immersive adventures on the land and in the sea of Kapalua Bay.
What is your favorite Maui beach to snorkel at and what can people expect to see?
Photo: Ambassadors of the Environment at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Here in Kapalua, my absolute favorite snorkel spot is Honolua Bay. The conditions can be hit-or-miss (expect some rough days on the water), but when you catch a calm day out in Honolua, the amount of biodiversity in the water is breathtaking. The bay itself is protected, both on land and sea, and thus feels much more intimate than some of the resort beaches.
Note: this snorkel is slightly more challenging, as the entry is rocky. But it is so worth it.
Are there any beaches nearby to the Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, that offer something people can’t find anywhere else?The Napili and Honokowai beaches are all lined with mature mango trees. If you come during mango season, you can forage a few perfect mangos on your way down to the beach and have a snack from the land as you prepare to enter the water. There’s no better way to feel truly immersed in the nature than that.
What are the best beaches in Maui for families?
Photo: Circumnavigation/Dave Heath
Kapalua Bay Beach is an excellent go-to beach for families. There’s an adventure hale located on-site for gear rentals (snorkeling gear, boogie boards, SUP, and more), so you have everything you need for a day of fun in the sun. Plus, because the Kapalua Bay Shuttle does pick-ups and drop-offs, the experience is logistics-free.
Even though Kapalua Bay Beach is popular among both locals and tourists, the coral reef habitat within the protected waters is thriving and abundant — the perfect intro-level snorkel. If your family is looking to snorkel for the first time but wants some guidance and personal attention, plus the added safety of a certified waterfront lifeguard, contact the Ambassadors of the Environment program at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, to book your private Cities Under the Sea Snorkel during your stay.
What is the best Maui beach for people looking to get away from the crowds?Most people in the area know about Kapalua Bay Beach and will spend their beach time there. What a lot of people don’t know, however, is that just south of Kapalua Bay is an area called Napili. Napili has some of the most pristine waters on island. Just an additional five-to-10 minutes south, you can escape the resort crowds and head into your own world of fun in the sun.
In your opinion, what’s the most underrated nearby beach and why?There are a couple of different beaches that come to mind. For one, our closest beach, D.T. Fleming Beach Park, is often written off as being too wavy or too rough. While it is often a very active ocean, there are a lot of days where you’ll find D.T. Flemings is calm — it’s days like this that I make it a point to snorkel in those waters.
With the incredible Makaluapuna Point lava rock formations converging into the clear waters on the left-hand side of the beach, the underwater landscape is other-worldly. Another underrated spot in the area is Honokowai beach. About 10 minutes south of Kapalua Bay, this area offers some of the bluest waters. Plus, there isn’t a single visit to Honokowai where I haven’t seen a number of our Hawaiian green sea turtles exploring the coastline.
How does the hotel make it easy for guests to make the most of the beach?Our hotel has direct access to a couple of excellent beaches right from our property. D.T. Fleming Beach is closest and easiest to access, but there are six bays and beaches within walking distance or a 10-minute drive. Location isn’t the only way the hotel immerses guests in beach opportunities; the Ritz-Carlton’s exclusive eco-tourism and adventure program offers high-quality, exclusive snorkeling adventures, available for guests and non-guests alike.
Are there any beach activities that people may be less aware of than snorkeling or boogie boarding that you suggest people try?
Photo: Ambassadors of the Environment at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
One of the coolest ways to explore the coastlines of Maui is tide pooling. Because of the ancient lava flows that make up Kapalua Bay, there are a seemingly endless selection of naturally carved-out pools along the shoreline. During low-tide, these pools are exposed, and some of the coolest, hardiest, and most resilient creatures of the ocean are there to observe in their own pristine, natural, mini-aquariums.
Note that when tide pooling, it is important to only look, not touch, the creatures in the pools. Because those pools are still water for most of the day, any contaminants that enter the system have a huge effect on the critters within.
Everything You Need To Know About Visiting Denver’s International Church of Cannabis
When Colorado became the first state, along with Washington, to legalize recreational cannabis in 2012, it immediately became one of the centers of cannabis in the United States. The tax revenue, and tourist interest, became a proof of concept for the 18 states and Washington DC that would legalize recreational cannabis over the next decade. Today, Colorado is still known for having some of the best dispensaries in the country, and it remains a hotspot for cannabis tourism. But one thing that even the most imaginative advocates probably didn’t see coming? An old Lutheran church in Denver being tripped out into a technicolor sanctuary called the International Church of Cannabis, where colorful pipes and joints are passed over pews between Elevationists, and cannabis is taken in as a sacrament.
While the concept of an International Church of Cannabis might, at first, sound silly, its members are serious about the role cannabis plays in a spiritual journey. And in an age when people turn to astrology for advice and are seeking out alternative forms of spiritual wellness, a church that recognizes cannabis as a sacrament isn’t as trippy as you think.
What is the International Church of Cannabis?View this post on InstagramA post shared by Int'l Church of Cannabis (@churchofcannabis)
The International Church of Cannabis is a building that hosts Elevation Ministries. Elevation Ministries is a religious organization founded in 2017 that meets at 400 S Logan St. in Denver in what used to be a Lutheran church. It might be tempting to think that church members use religion as an excuse to smoke weed, but the church states that cannabis is a tool to accelerate spiritual journeys through ritualistic and mindful use.
Spirituality is prioritized over strict religious principles. The church prioritizes cannabis activism and volunteer work as a part of its most important stances. Church members don’t need to convert, and some of the church’s members identify as a part of other traditional religions. The bright and colorful chapel stands out when compared to the austere churches you might be used to, but it’s a fitting place for inspiration.
What are elevationists?International Church of Cannabis members practice Elevationism, a religion that focuses on self-discovery and was created by a group of people who were tired of traditional religious practices. The “sacred flower” and the encouragement from the community helps church members, who are called elevationists, grow.
Can you visit the International Church of cannabis?View this post on InstagramA post shared by Int'l Church of Cannabis (@churchofcannabis)
When planning a cannabis-themed vacation, Denver has great spots like the Marijuana Mansion plenty of dispensaries that stock pretty much any cannabis product you could dream up. You’ll definitely want to add a trip to one of the world’s coolest looking churches to your list. The International Church of Cannabis is open to the general public for anyone interested in checking out the artwork and toys. The International Church of Cannabis is open to the public Friday through Monday from 12:00 to 8:00 PM, and Tuesday through Thursday from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. During public hours, the building is both family and pet friendly.
Currently, Elevation Ministries is hosting its BEYOND Laser Light Experience, a one-hour light show on the church’s colorful walls that combines lasers, guided meditation, and music. You’ll also get access to the media room, arcade, and lounge. This event is open to all ages.
Can you smoke weed at the International church of cannabis?View this post on InstagramA post shared by Int'l Church of Cannabis (@churchofcannabis)
There’s no cannabis consumption allowed on the property during public hours, and the church doesn’t sell cannabis, either. However, if you become a member of the church, there are services every four to six weeks when the congregation comes together to practice, which includes burning the sacrament. To become a church member, visitors can live anywhere in the world and sign up online to receive newsletter alerts about gatherings.
Your All-Season Adventure Guide To Rossland, BC, Canada’s Coolest Tiny Town
Rossland, British Columbia, is a laid-back, adventure-rich mountain town. It got its developmental headstart when Scandinavian gold-seekers brought their love of skiing to the Kootenay Rockies (along with their mining tools) in the late 1800s.
When the gold rush petered out, skiing in the region known as part of BC’s famed “Powder Highway” continued to grow. Today, Rossland and nearby RED Mountain Resort are all-season outdoor playgrounds. In this area, “Rosslander” refers to the fortunate locals, including those tourists that become residents.
For visitors, big-mountain adventures at small-town prices make Rossland a value destination. The deals are even better if you come from the US due to a favorable exchange rate. As of July 2022, one US dollar equals about 1.2 Canadian dollars.
When to go to Rossland, BC
Photo: Tourism Rossland/Eric Gonzalez
The ski season typically runs from December to April, but there are ample outdoor adventure options on either side of winter and summer. In fact, during these in-between periods, you can experience multiple seasons on the same day, depending on what adventure you prefer. It’s possible to backcountry ski in the morning and golf in the afternoon in May. But otherwise, assume the usual mountain timelines: summer runs from late May to early September, with warm days and cold nights during the shoulder seasons.
How to get thereRossland is about a seven-hour drive from Vancouver or Seattle, close to a three-hour drive from Spokane, Washington, and thirty minutes from Castlegar’s West Kootenay Regional Airport.
Rental cars and taxi services are available at the West Kootenay Regional Airport. During the ski season, a shuttle bus operates between Spokane and RED Mountain Resort.
What to do in summer in Rossland, BCMountain biking
Photo: Tourism Rossland/Ashley Voykin
Rossland calls itself the “Mountain Biking Capital of Canada,” and while Squamish locals may object, Rossland is one of BC’s original bike destinations. Back in the early days of mountain biking, pioneering locals started riding abandoned miners’ trails and old railway lines. Today, over 124 miles (200km) of maintained single-track attract mountain bikers from around the world.
The Kootenay Columbia Trail Society develops and maintains purpose-built single-track throughout the region, including the point-to-point Seven Summits trail. This 22-mile route is challenging and technical, geared toward intermediate to advanced riders. It’s classified as an International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) Epic route, one of only four in Canada. Epic routes are crowd-sourced and true destination rides. According to IMBA, “Epics are what mountain bikers live for.” Oh, and you don’t need to pedal — there’s a shuttle available all summer.
If white-knuckle descents aren’t your thing, the Columbia and Western Trail (CWT) is another world-class route suited to riders seeking a gentler grade and less technical trail. Part of the Trans Canada Trail, the CWT follows the abandoned Canadian Pacific Railway line for 101 miles and takes riders over trestles, past lakes, and through tunnels. It’s a full day in the saddle, but you don’t have to ride the entire route.
Road cycling
Photo: Tourism Rossland/Dave Heath
Rossland, BC will also please riders who prefer to leave the dirt on the trails and follow the wide paved roads on skinny tires. Spectacular scenery, lung-searing climbs, and local bike shops with all the goods make Rossland an incredible road cycling destination. Overall, there are many routes to ride in the region and not a lot of traffic.
One of the popular routes is to ride 37 miles out and back from Rossland to Strawberry Pass via Nancy Greene Lake. After a long steady climb, many riders opt for a plunge in the lake to cool off.
Hiking
Photo: Tourism Rossland/Ryan Flett
From family-friendly routes with plenty of places to stop for a snack, gentle wanders through old-growth forest, or spectacular day-long summit hikes like Old Glory (12 miles, 3,680-foot gain), Rossland delivers – and not just with well-marked trails, varied terrain, and eye-popping vistas. Once the snow melts, wildflowers cover the already stunning region in a quilt of colors come late spring.
Trails are multi-use, shared by all users (including bikes and equestrians), except for a few old-growth routes reserved for hikers. Outdoor adventure is super accessible in Rossland, so you don’t need to drive very far to most trailheads. Trails like the mostly forested Kootenay Columbia (known as KC to Rosslanders) begin in town. As you follow the KC trail to the summit for a bird’s-eye view over Rossland, keep your eyes out for art installations along the way.
Trail runningPhoto: Tourism Rossland/Ryan Flett
Why walk if you can run? If this phrase speaks to you, you’ll love Rossland. Home to hardcore trail runners and one of BC’s most challenging ultra-marathons – the 31 miles (50 km) Broken Goat Trail Race – Rossland is the place to pick up the pace. Held in July, the Broken Goat begins at 5,164 feet (1574 m). Runners will summit four peaks and two ridges before reaching the Old Glory summit at 7,795 feet above sea level.
If you’re looking for a little less challenging or something for little ones, the Broken Goat offers charter options: a 15.5 miler, a 7.5 miler,) and a .6 miler for kids.
What to do in winter in Rossland, BCWhen the snow flies, a lot of it lands in and around Rossland. With an average of 300 inches of snowfall per year, count on powdery snow blankets across ski runs, fat biking trails, and 137 miles of snowcat roads for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Skiing and riding
Photo: Tourism Rossland/Troy Nebeker
RED Mountain Resort, a five-minute drive from Rossland, is in the top 10 in North America when it comes to size. With 4,200 skiable acres, this IKON Pass destination promises (and delivers) one acre per skier – there’s always plenty of space. While the impressive 2,919-foot vertical, tree runs, and glades mean expert skiers will definitely have a good day on the mountain, there are runs for all levels at RED. And the famous Kootenay powder usually leaves everyone planning a return visit as soon as possible.
Cat skiing
Photo: Tourism Rossland/Troy Nebeker
One of the world’s largest cat skiing operations, Big Red Cats, is minutes from RED Mountain and offers single or multi-day trips for intermediate to expert skiers and boarders. With over 20,000 acres covering eight mountain peaks, world-class tree skiing, and the region’s famously deep powder, Big Red Cats is one of the country’s top cat skiing operations.
Cross-country skiing
Photo: Tourism Rossland/Dave Heath
Just two minutes up the highway from RED Mountain, Black Jack Ski Club offers about 28 miles of groomed trails for beginner to expert trails for cross-country and skate skiers. The club has three warming cabins, equipment rentals, 1.6 miles of illuminated night skiing trails, and even a doggy loop if you travel with Fido.
Fat biking
Photo: Tourism Rossland/Troy Nebeker
Although it’s a year-round sport in Rossland, fat bikes are the king of the trails when snow falls. In the winter, fat bike enthusiasts can explore over 12 miles of dedicated machine-groomed trails in the area. It’s easy to get started – just swing by a local bike shop like Revolution Cycles for the latest trail conditions, recommendations, and any gear you may need.
Where to stay in Rossland, BC
Photo: The Constella/Ashley Voykin
Rossland is a very small town but it’s artsy, extremely outdoorsy, and has lots of great restaurants and a very active community. So there are a lot of great options when it comes to where to stay (and what to do after your pop off your hiking shoes).
For a luxury experience, check out The Josie at RED Mountain. The boutique hotel has ski-in ski-out (or bike-in, bike-out) access, The Velvet Restaurant & Lounge, a ski valet, a spa, and slopeside cedar barrel saunas.
If you’d rather stay in a cabin in Rossland, check out The Constella, also near RED Mountain. The eco-friendly cabins sleep up to five guests and the on-site clubhouse has relaxing spaces, handmade seating, an indoor fireplace, select meals for purchase, and a non-alcoholic bar.
Travelers who prefer a more bed and breakfast-type experience should check out The Wild Turkey Inn, a freshly renovated, three-bedroom property just three blocks from downtown with laundry and a self-serve kitchen. And for a more budget-friendly stay in Rossland, BC, look at Nowhere Special, a modern, ski-in, ski-out hostel. It has a variety of room configurations and shared bathrooms and starts around $110 US.
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Colorado Grows the Best Peaches in the Country. Here’s Where To Try Them.
In much of the United States, people must deal with the occasional dry and mealy peach at the supermarket. But if you live in Colorado, you probably know it doesn’t have to be this way. Because there’s a small town in western Colorado that grows, arguably, the best peaches in the country: Palisade peaches. All peaches are not created equal, as it turns out.
Grown mostly in the 2,700-or-so person town of Palisade, these peaches are legendary. Palisade is an agricultural powerhouse, and the orchards there produce hops, cherries, and lavender. It’s also Colorado wine country with its own fruit and wine byway people can bike. It’s the peaches that really stand out, though.
Known for a balance of flavor, Palisade Peaches contain just the right amount of tart and sweetness. Then there’s the size: They’re bigger than what you might find in the supermarket at about the size of the average adult’s fist.
Photo: Amy Sofia/Shutterstock
“Palisade peaches are the best,” Asonta Benetti, a food and drink writer, tells me. “As a kid growing up in Grand Junction, we would drive to Palisade for boxes of peaches and cherries for my mom’s canning jars. Every summer after we moved, we would drive back to Colorado for a couple weeks and made sure to pick a few up, cradling them gently on the drive back.”
The success of Palisade peaches in this town can be traced to one man: A settler to Colorado named John Harlow. Harlow planted the first groves of fruit trees in the area in the 1880s, after the Indigenous Ute people were forced off their land, according to Uncover Colorado. By 1888, Harlow was producing award winning batches of Palisade peaches and launching this fruit to nationwide fame.
The general consensus is that Palisade’s climate gets much of the credit for these juicy fruits. Diurnal hot days and cool nights in summer allow the sugars in fruit to develop. Harvest season for Palisade peaches begins in late June and runs into mid-September, which means the best time to pick up a box of peaches is from the height of summer to early fall. Supermarket peaches in parts of the country where the fruit doesn’t grow must be harvested early before they’ve fully ripened to survive the journey, so eating Palisade peaches close to the orchards is key to finding the best ones.
There are plenty of Palisade peach orchards that let you pick your own fruit. Just look for golden-orange peaches with no green if you’re looking to pick something that’s ripe and ready to eat with fully developed sugars. Once the peach is picked off the tree the sugars stop developing and the peach starts to get soft.
Where to find Palisade peaches in ColoradoPalisade Peach ShackView this post on InstagramA post shared by Palisade Peach Shack (@palisadepeachshack)
Owned by the Sanders family, Palisade Peach Shack offers u-pick tours of its cherry, apricot, and peach orchards during the summer. The adjoining market offers a variety of jams, in flavors ranging from apricot plum to peach almond, as well as apple and pear butter.
Where: 451 Wine Valley Rd, Palisade, CO 81526
Cunningham Peach TruckCunningham Orchards specialize in Palisade peaches, pears, cherries, and honey that’s harvested from bees that roam the farm freely. What makes this farm notable is the Cunningham Peach Truck, which delivers Palisade peaches directly from the orchards to Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Kansas. The truck posts its scheduled stops where people in the area can pick up their own peaches on July 18.
Where: 3807 G Rd, Palisade, CO 81526
Clark Family OrchardsThis orchard has been operated by the same family for seven generations. Clark Family Orchards offers free tours of orchards on a horse-drawn carriage, and the peach stand opened in June. The farm also grows cherries and apricots, and harvests honey. One big bonus about this farm is that it also produces Palisade peach ice cream.
Where: 3929 US-HWY 6 Palisade, CO 81526
Palisade Peach FestivalView this post on InstagramA post shared by Palisade Peach Festival (@palisadepeachfest)
2022 marks the 54th annual Palisade Peach Festival, which celebrates the local farmers who grow these famous peaches. A Peach Queen is crowned, and there is live music, farm tours (the adults-only version includes a wine tasting), and chef demonstrations to enjoy throughout the weekend. Other family friendly activities include a pancake breakfast and a peach eating contest, plus a parade to top the festivities off. This year’s festival takes place from August 12 through August 13.
Where: Riverbend Park, 451 Pendleton Drive, Palisade, CO
High Country Orchards and VineyardsHigh Country Orchards is special because it accepts orders for boxes of peaches that ship nationwide. But if you’re in the area, self-guided tours through the orchards are welcomed where you can see not just peaches but rose gardens and views of the Colorado River. There are also four vineyards located on the High Country property that grows grapes used by Colterris winery, and there is of course a country store on site where peaches and wine are both available that’s open from June to the end of August.
Where: 3548 E 1/2 Road Palisade, Colorado 81526
Nana’s Peach and Jam ShackView this post on InstagramA post shared by 5280foods (@5280foods)
Nana and Papa, otherwise known as Becky and Lance Davis, operate a peach orchard in Palisade where the family peach shack was once located. In 2020, the Davises opened a new shop in Downtown Palisade. The shop now sells a whole array of pantry staples, from jams, to barbecue sauce, salsa, salad dressing, pickles, and even Bloody Mary mix.
If you want to sample Nana’s peaches but you’re elsewhere in Colorado, head to the Davis’s roadside farm stand in Steamboat Springs. It’s open June through September. On the weekends, the orchard’s peaches can also be found at the Steamboat Springs farmer’s market.
Jam Shack: 237 S. Main Street Palisade, CO 81526
Farm Stand: Highway 40, 1 mile west at the County Rd. 42 intersection
7 Online Cooking Classes You Can Take To Learn About Your Next Destination’s Cuisine
Online cooking classes have become a great way to learn about different types of cuisine from around the world. This is a great excuse to get your travel-ready friends together for a cool experience that is much more unique than the typical night out. You can also use this to your advantage if you have an upcoming trip to one of these places by being familiar with the local cuisine and how it’s prepared in advance.
We hope you love the online cooking classes 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.
Italy — Pasta with Grandmas
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Want to learn how to cook pasta just like your grandma used to make? There is no need to travel to Italy when Nona brings it to your table. In this Airbnb online cooking class, you will cook pasta from scratch with grandma and learn all about the technique, her culinary skills and secrets, and how to cook traditional pasta.
Chef location: Palombara Sabina, Italy
Price: From $30 per person
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Explore the treasure of Indonesian food through this online cooking experience. This Airbnb cooking class will teach you how to cook the all-time Bali favorite — Mie Goreng, or another version of the island’s popular fried noodle dishes. You will be shown the recipe and taught step-by-step how to make the dish, and we guarantee it will reshape how you think about noodles.
Chef location: Ubud, Indonesia
Price: From $14 per person
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Check out this flavorful cooking class and learn how to make Argentine empanadas. No, you don’t have to be an expert cook, just gather the right ingredients and cook them as the instructor shows you. You’ll be provided with an ingredients list and have the option of protein. What separates this online cooking class from other empanada instructionals is that also you’ll learn how to make the famous chimichurri, the unique and delicious sauce you eat with the empanadas.
Chef location: Medellín, Colombia
Price: From $16 per person
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Gather up your ingredients and cook authentic street tacos with your friends and a pro chef. This online cooing experience will give you the unique opportunity to learn about Mexican street food culture the only correct way — by cooking, and then eating what you prepare. This is one of the top Airbnb online cooking experiences, and unless you’re the only person on the planet who doesn’t like tacos, it’s a surefire win for a great time.
Chef location: Mexico City, Mexico
Price: From From $25 per person
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
In this Vietnam cooking experience, you can choose your menu from over 40 dishes, from Khao Soi to Banh Mi and more. The class will include creating and cooking one drink and two delicious entrees. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available. Learn about cooking techniques, Vietnamese culture, stories, and people.
Chef location: Thành phố Hội An, Vietnam
Price: From $18 per person
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Airbnb online cooking experiences are something unique and a new learning experience. Nowhere is this more true than in this Indian cooking class. With this cooking experience, you will learn classic Indian recipes including masala, pakora, and curry dishes along with the culture and history surrounding them. You can choose from a cooking menu or create your own, and you will learn how to cook the authentic dish with minimum ingredients.
Chef location: Jodhpur, India
Price: From $11 per person
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Learn how to make Kenyan dishes with this top-rated Airbnb online cooking class. Here, you will learn how to cook authentic biryani served with kachumbari or Bhajia served with Kenyan Chai and sauce using the techniques and methods of the host’s family recipe. There will be different dishes for different days, and while learning the recipe, you’ll also learn about Kenyan culture and its women.
Chef location: Nairobi, Kenya
Price: From $31 per person
8 of the Most Stunning Ocean Pools Around the World
It’s a classic summertime debate: ocean or swimming pool? Oceans, on the one hand, are grand, awe-inspiring bodies of water that make for solid Instagram photos, and they’re often right on a beach, which makes for even better social content. On the other hand, pools are more subdued, more conducive to relaxation and simply soaking up the rays. The choice between a beach day and a pool day can be difficult, and the options often feel mutually exclusive. Well, that’s not always the case. A variety of ocean pools around the world, both naturally formed and manmade, are the perfect confluence of these two summertime experiences. Ocean pools are saltwater pools abutting the sea and are constantly renewed by waves. They’re among the most picturesque and peaceful wonders of the world. From Italy to Australia, these are the coolest ocean pools around the world.
Giola Lagoon, Thassos, Greece
Photo: 2stockista/Shutterstock
A geological wonder, Giola Lagoon on the island of Thassos, is a sea lagoon carved into the rocks. The cliffs surrounding the 65-foot-wide lagoon have natural terraces, and there’s no way to enter the pool except to take a leap of faith and jump. Though the water comes from the Aegean, it’s warmer than the sea with a sandy bottom, making it ideal for swimming even in spring and fall. Getting there isn’t the most convenient — you’ll have to drive a few miles down a dirt road, then follow a walking path — but it’s totally worth it. According to Greek myth, the lagoon is actually the eye of Zeus himself.
Saint-Malo Sea Pool, Saint-Malo, France
Photo: Valery Rokhin/Shutterstock
With some of the highest tides in Europe, rising up to 46 feet, Plage de Bon Secours is anything but a calm sea. By contrast, the Saint-Malo pool right beside it is still and peaceful. Designed by Rene Lesaunier in 1937, the sea pool has a diving tower that rises from the seawall and is open for swimming 24 hours a day. The sandy beach surrounding the seawater pool is also extremely popular, both for the ocean itself and its views of the nearby 17th-century fort.
Grotta della Poesia, Roca Vecchia, Italy
Photo: salarko/Shutterstock
Grotta della Poesia, or “the Cave of Poetry,” is an egg-shaped crater on the Adriatic Sea, known for its clear blue-green water and cliffs perfect for diving. One of the most beautiful natural swimming pools in the world, you can swim directly into the sea via a connecting tunnel in the cave. Grotta della Poesia is also nearby Two Sister Beach, the Sea Stacks of Sant’Andrea, and almost directly beside the ruins of a 16th-century castle. Buses to the cave run all summer until mid-September. After that, you’ll need a car to reach it.
Bondi Icebergs Pool, Sydney, Australia
Photo: wolffpower/Shutterstock
A staple of Bondi Beach in Sydney for over 100 years, the Bondi Icebergs Pool is one of the most photographed pools in the world. It’s no surprise why. This public pool has gained historical landmark status, partially due to the formation of the Bondi Iceberg Swimclub in 1929. This winter swimming club is among the most famous in Australia, and it’s not uncommon to see members — in all seasons — making use of the two ocean-side pools. There’s also a sauna on the property, in case you do decide to go for a winter plunge.
Sliema Rock Pools, Malta
Photo: Paul Mendoza/Shutterstock
Now that the Azure Window on Malta’s island of Gozo has tragically collapsed, there’s a space open for the “coolest coastal attraction in Malta.” Unlike the Azure Window, the Sliema Rock Pools aren’t a naturally occurring phenomenon, but that doesn’t make them any less impressive or alluring to visitors. The series of square pools cut into the rocky shore is the perfect way to explore the Maltese coast. The swimming holes were dug in the 1600s so Victorian women could bathe in private under little canopies. While the canopies are gone, the holes thankfully remain, with step ladders making it easy for swimmers to safely descend.
Kitsilano Pool, Vancouver, Canada
Photo: Eric Buermeyer/Shutterstock
Known by locals as “Kits Pool,” this ocean pool might be the best for honing your swimming skills in North America. Three times as long as an Olympic swimming pool at 450 feet, the heated pool is Vancouver’s only saltwater swimming pool, and is conveniently located near the beach and several cafes. The pool has two water slides, a water park area, and incredible views of Vancouver’s West End.
Bronte Baths, Sydney, AustraliaPhoto: The Atlas of Photos/Shutterstock
If it hasn’t become clear yet, Sydney is one of the premier cities in the world for ocean pools. Apart from the Bondi Icebergs, one of the most beautiful ocean pools you’ll find anywhere, the city has over 30 others, including the Bronte Baths. While not as famous as the Bondi Icebergs, Bronte Baths are no less beautiful or worth visiting. Built into the rocky cliffs, the shallow pool is perfect for lap swimmers and watching the sunrise over the ocean. And unlike its more popular neighbor, Bronte Baths are completely free.
To Sua Ocean Trench, Samoa
Photo: edierdel/Shutterstock
The To Sua Ocean Trench in Samoa was formed over the course of thousands of years by erosion of the lava fields around Lotofaga. This resulted in a series of tide pools and blowholes, of which To Sua is the largest. Meaning “big hole,” To Sua is located at the edge of the South Pacific, surrounded by gardens, and its western side opens into a small beach. Visitors can access the swimming hole via a cliff-side path, and either descend using a ladder or by jumping into the pool below.
What to do in Boston’s Little Italy
It sounds like something a drunk Red Sox fan would scream outside Yankee Stadium to incite a riot. “The best Little Italy is in Boston” isn’t just an inflammatory remark meant to piss off New Yorkers — it’s a sentiment familiar to many who have visited the small neighborhood in Boston’s North End and enjoyed its unique character, cuisine, and aesthetic.
Chances are, when you think of Boston, you’re thinking of Little Italy. Cobbled streets, waterfront promenades, and historic churches define the North End, which was the first neighborhood in the city. Formerly a bastion of Revolutionary War soldiers, then an Irish district, and a center of Italian culture and cuisine since the early 1900s, the North End isn’t just about spaghetti and meatballs but delicious pastry shops, dozens of festivals, and some of the city’s best nightlife. Sorry, New York. Boston’s Little Italy is the best in the country, and here’s why.
The best restaurants in Boston’s Little Italy
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There’s a time and place for cheeseburgers and quesadillas, and the restaurants of Boston’s Little Italy are not it. When it comes to dining in Little Italy, it’s all about pappardelle, meatballs, fish, and, of course, pizza. If you’re looking for a blend of atmosphere and flavor, it’s tough to go wrong here. To dive right into the Boston Italian culinary experience — and for a pretty good date spot, too — check out Mamma Maria in North Square. Housed in a 19th-century rowhouse, this restaurant has five private dining rooms, a pasta-heavy menu, and panoramic views of the North End.
To take in New England’s fresh seafood tradition with Italian cuisine, head to Rabia’s on Salem Street. Try the “fra diavolo alla Mediterranea” (octopus, shrimp, calamari, clams, mussels, linguine, and tomato sauce) or the “gamberi dorati” (shrimp, lobster ravioli, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, scampi sauce.)
No matter how full you may be from dinner, there’s always room for pizza. Take a walk through North Square, check out the waterfront, and before you know it you’ll be ready for second dinner. There’s a hot debate over Boston’s best pizza, with Regina Pizzeria (North End) and Santarpio’s Pizza (East Boston) regularly winning out, but if you only have one slice in Boston’s Little Italy, make it from Ernesto’s on Salem Street. This little eatery has been a neighborhood favorite for over 30 years and somehow manages to avoid the hype that plagues its competitors.
Leave the gun, take the cannoli
Photo: Joseph Sohm/Shutterstock
Unlike some of its pizza joints, the North End’s more notable dessert spots definitely live up to the hype. Mike’s Pastry on Hanover Street is the most famous pastry shop in Boston, with people regularly coming from outside the city just for a box of their cannolis. Indeed, the “Home of the Cannoli” moniker is well-earned. Since 1946, Mike’s has been a staple of the community, offering up dozens of varieties of cannolis, cookies, pies, and cakes. Just be prepared for a solid 15 minutes of indecision while you figure out which cannoli you want. The options include espresso, chocolate mousse, oreo, hazelnut, peanut butter, limoncello, and pecan caramel cannolis, and more.
Bova’s Bakery on Salem Street is another Boston classic, and it dates even farther back than Mike’s. Since 1926, Bova’s has served the local community homemade Italian cookies, pastries, pies, baked bread, and even Sicilian pizza. Between these two pastry shops, you should be able to find any Italian dessert your sweet tooth desires.
The best bars in Boston’s North End
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The best part about the North End is that you can pretty much spend the entire day in this part of the city and have a complete Boston experience without needing to venture anywhere else. It’s a given that Boston’s Little Italy will have an abundance of delicious food, but when Happy Hour rolls around and you start getting thirsty, look no further than North End nightlife.
If you’re someone whose friends are always telling you, “You’re really funny; you should take improv,” then you’re in luck. Assuming they’re not just being sarcastic, the Improv Asylum on Hanover Street is a unique venue that’s probably right up your alley. This improvisational comedy theater puts on several shows every week, which blend sketch comedy and improv scenes, and they offer classes in comedy writing, improv, and musical improv. That said, it’s far from being the only Boston comedy club worth visiting; Laugh Boston, the Wilbur Theatre, and more will provide hilarious entertainment, too.
For those looking for a more fist-bumping nightlife experience, Bell in Hand Tavern is your spot. Claiming to be the oldest bar in Boston — it opened in 1795 — Bell in Hand has something for everyone and is one of the best bars in Boston’s North End. The downstairs has live music, a bar, and a dance floor while the upstairs has DJ music, two dancefloors, and two bars. If you tell someone in their 30s you’re going to Bell in Hand, they’ll probably reply with a hint of condescension, “What is it, your 21st birthday?” It’s true, the crowd here is pretty young, but if you’d rather party like a 21-year-old than sip craft beers next to suited young professionals, this is the place for you.
Photo: jenlo8/Shutterstock
Being in Little Italy might not inspire you to visit an Irish pub, but in Boston it’s almost mandatory. Just a few streets over on Union and Marshall, right behind the Bell in Hand, several Irish pubs line the road, making it easy to blend your day in Little Italy with the famous Boston Irish experience. You can’t go wrong with Hennessey’s, Paddy O’s, or The Green Dragon, which are all staples of Boston’s Irish pub scene.
North End Festivals
Photo: James Kirkikis/Shutterstock
Summer is festival season in Boston’s Little Italy. Pretty much every weekend from the beginning of June to mid-September has a feast, festival, or procession you can look forward to, all steeped in Italian tradition. The season typically kicks off the first weekend of June with the Santa Maria di Anzano Procession, which involves a procession down the cobbled streets, a church service, and, of course, a hearty feast.
The next event to look out for is the St. Agrippina di Mineo Feast, which takes place in early August. In addition to street food like pasta, fried calamari, arancini, shellfish, and cannoli, the festival has live music and DJ concerts, and even a charity raffle. Seafood-lovers will want to keep an eye out for the Fisherman’s Feast, which usually takes place in mid-August and follows the traditions of fisherman coming to Boston from Sicily in the early 1900s. Stalls of fresh fish, meats, music, and games will take over the streets of the North End, and it’s all run by the descendants of the original Sicilian fishermen.
If you only go to one festival in Boston’s Little Italy, however, it should be Saint Anthony’s Feast at the end of August. One of Boston’s oldest festivals, celebrated since 1919, Saint Anthony’s Feast is the largest Italian religious festival in New England. Dubbed the “Feast of all Feasts,” this four-day festival has parades, singers, live entertainment, contests, religious services, and, of course, more Italian street food than you can handle.
Little Italy attractions
Photo: Joseph Sohm/Shutterstock
Beyond its food, drinks, and festival offerings, Boston’s Little Italy is home to many historic sites, including several that are part of the famous Freedom Trail. While you can take a 90-minute guided tour of the official Freedom Trail historic sites, if you prefer checking out the neighbordhood at your own pace, that’s entirely possible — just make sure you hit all the good spots. Visit the Paul Revere House, the home of the legendary man who rode his horse in the night to alert American revolutionaries of the British approach in April 1775. And don’t miss Old North Church, the oldest church building in Boston (built in 1723) and a structure that was also instrumental in the start of the revolutionary war.
If you’re keen to get some fresh air out on the water, take one of the many cruises that launch from Boston’s Little Italy. Boston Harbor City Cruises, for example, has dining cruises and sightseeing cruises that start straight from Long Warf, a less-than-10-minute walk from the Paul Revere House.
Tennessee Foodie: A Statewide Guide To Eating and Drinking Well
There’s simply no better way to immerse yourself in Tennessee culture than through your stomach. Whether it’s setting your mouth ablaze with hot chicken, chowing down on a hot dog marinated in moonshine, or having an iconic barbecue experience in a back-alley basement, it feels easy to be a foodie in Tennessee.
Do your taste buds a favor and follow this guide for eating and drinking your way across the state. From beloved classics to iconic newcomers and everything in between, here’s where to go.
MEAT AND THREE
Miss Mary Bobo’s Boarding House, Lynchburg. Photo: Miss Mary Bobo’s Boarding House/Jack Daniel Distillery
If you ask any Tennessee grandma, they’ll tell you the food pyramid should really only consist of one serving of meat and three side dishes, washed down with a glass of sweet iced tea. And there’s no better place to fulfill this balanced diet than at the all-you-can-eat Bea’s in Chattanooga. Not only has Bea’s been operated by the same family since 1950, the dining room is set up family-style with round lazy Susan tables that you share with other diners. Hot food is constantly brought out from the kitchen, and there’s no judgment for loading your plate up with seconds (and thirds) of fried chicken smothered in chow-chow relish, creamy potatoes, coleslaw, fried okra, and golden yeast rolls glistening with melted butter.
Featured in Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Arnold’s Country Kitchen in Nashville has been serving up made-from-scratch meals for 39 years. Just, if you can, try to go easy on the meat and three’s to save room for a slice of hot pepper chocolate pie — it’s the perfect combination of sweetness and heat.
Located just down the street from the Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg, Miss Mary Bobo’s Boarding House Restaurant has over 100 years of history to its name and rotates its menu based on seasonal ingredients. Fun fact: Even Mr. Jack Daniel himself couldn’t help but get his daily dose of fried okra and pie from Miss Mary.
BARBECUE
Sweet P’s Barbecue and Soul House, Knoxville. Photo: Tennessee Department of Tourism Development
Tennessee and barbecue go together like cornbread and molasses. If you need proof, just make your way to Helen’s Bar-B-Q in Brownsville, which is owned by Helen Turner, one of the few female pit masters in the country. All the meats are smoked over an open pit with coals cultivated from hickory and oak; favorite menu items include the pulled pork shoulder sandwich and juicy smoked sausage.
For some of the best brisket in the state, Family BBQ in Dickson is your joint. This no-frills spot is pretty tiny, so keep your eyes peeled when you start getting a hankering for some barbecue.
And then there’s Charles Vergo’s Rendezvous in Memphis. In 1948, the original owner discovered a coal chute in the basement below his diner, which he converted into a smoker, giving us the world-class signature dry-rub ribs that locals and visitors alike know and crave today. Not much has changed since then, with flame-charred ribs dry-rubbed with spices still being dished out in a downtown back-alley basement.
NASHVILLE HOT CHICKEN
Hattie B’s, Nashville. Photo: Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
Nashville Hot Chicken certainly deserves its own entry on this list, a staple in its namesake city for the better part of a century. What separates hot chicken from other Southern-style fried chicken is its dark cayenne pepper paste coating. It’s also, as the name implies, freaking hot!
If you like your chicken with a side of sweat and tears, there’s no better place to start than Prince’s. Legend has it that in the early 1900s, Thorton Prince’s scorned lover concocted a fiery fried chicken recipe for revenge. Except Prince didn’t learn his lesson. Instead, he asked for seconds. And thus, as the story goes, the iconic Nashville Hot Chicken recipe was born.
With a dish as popular as this, you can imagine the debate over who slings the best hot chicken is as hot as the breading itself. For a good point of comparison, Hattie B’s has you covered. This family-run restaurant serves chicken (at different spice levels) atop white bread with pickles.
UPSCALE DINING
Dancing Bear Lodge, Townsend. Photo: Dancing Bear Lodge & Appalachian Bistro
For the finer fare of Tennessee, set your GPS to the Dancing Bear Lodge & Appalachian Bistro in Townsend. Situated near the outskirts of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this restaurant serves rustic and refined Appalachian cuisine, paying homage to the history and roots of its meals. Describing itself as “forest to skillet,” the bistro takes inspiration from the days of intuitive Appalachian cooking, when folks used whatever was on hand to craft delicious dishes.
As the name implies, The Barn at Blackberry Farm in Walland is set within a turn-of-the-century barn that serves elevated southern Appalachian dishes with ingredients harvested onsite. As a James Beard Award-winning establishment, it will make you think twice about that old “Did you learn to eat in a barn?” jab.
To add some mystique to your fine-dining experience, try House of Cards in Nashville, located below the Johnny Cash Museum. Patrons are entertained by renowned magicians while dining on ostrich steak, octopus and chorizo, and cuisses de grenouille (frog legs) before puffing on a Zino Platinum Nashville Toro cigar.
MOONSHINE
Ole Smoky Tennessee Distillery, Gatlinburg. Photo: Ole Smoky Tennessee Distillery
Moonshine is cool these days, but not every place can lay claim to a heritage as rich as Tennessee’s. Take Bootleggers Distillery in Hartford, for example, where they’re keeping a 16-generation distilling legacy alive and true to its roots — Bootleggers is known for being the smallest batch distillery in the country. Ole Smoky Moonshine in Gatlinburg is another spot where you can embrace your inner bootlegger. This 12,000-square-foot distillery with a 100-year-old secret recipe is the place to try unique flavors of shine, like pumpkin pie, butter pecan, and mountain java.
But if you’d rather eat your hooch than drink it, Smoky Mountain Shakes N Dawgs, also in Gatlinburg, is a hot dog joint that marinates its Moonshine Dawg in — you guessed it — moonshine. Or, you can indulge in the gooey cookies of micro-bakery Moonshine Mountain Cookie Company in Knoxville, where some of their delights include a splash of moonshine among the ingredients.
TENNESSEE WHISKEY TRAIL
Ole Smoky Tennessee Distillery, Gatlinburg. Photo: Ole Smoky Tennessee Distillery
You can’t embark on a culinary tour of Tennessee and not spend a fair amount of time sipping whiskey. No need to stress about where to try it, though — there’s an entire road-trip itinerary built to celebrate this all-American beverage. The Tennessee Whiskey Trail covers the entire state and takes you to over 30 distillery stops.
Honestly, the trail is worth a trip or two all on its own, evidence that — when it comes to Tennessee food and drink — the deeper you go, the tastier it gets.
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