Matador Network's Blog, page 453
June 14, 2022
This Remote Indian Island Has Some of the Most Beautiful Beaches in Asia
A buzzing city of 20 million people. The awe-inspiring Taj Mahal. An ashram worthy of “Eat Pray Love.”
When thinking about India, it’s easy to conjure up the same mental images shown of India on TV and in movies.
But India is a massive country with 4,671 miles of coastline between the mainland and various islands. While the “digital nomad” millennial-traveler crowd may know of popular coastal destinations like Goa, most people don’t think of the nation’s beachy areas. And even more rarely do they associate India with the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and its leading tourist destination, Havelock Island.
Abandoned ruins on Havelock’s Ross Island. Photo: Matyas Rehak/Shutterstock
With a $35 tourist visa, anyone can travel more than 800 miles from the subcontinent to the eastern Bay of Bengal between India and Burma (also known as Myanmar). That’s the location of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a remote archipelago of 572 islands that served as penal colonies during British rule. Today, it’s home to some of the most isolated Indigenous peoples on earth, such as the Sentinelese (in North Sentinel Island, and at the center of 2018’s missionary controversy), the Jarawas (in Great Andaman), and the Shompen (in the Nicobar Islands), in addition to Indians and expats from around the world.
The most developed island for tourism is in the South Andaman district. It used to be called Havelock Island, after British General Sir Henry Havelock. While most people still call it that, the name was changed in 2018 to “Swaraj Island” or “Swaraj Dweep,” meaning “self-rule island” in Hindi.
It’s hands-down the most developed of the A&N islands, but it’s still less developed than most beachy destinations in the Indian Ocean like Maldives. It’s a place where visitors can slow down, leave the crowds of the mainland behind, and discover a side to India they never dreamed about.
Havelock Island beaches
Photo: Dchauy/Shutterstock
On Swaraj Dweep, most beaches are known by a number based on their progressive distances from the harbor. So although Radhanagar Beach is the best beach on Havelock Island and considered the top spot, it’s technically called Beach Seven. The inviting beach won the 2019 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for the best beach in Asia, and rated at number six on the list of the top 25 best beaches in the world.
But the truth is that nothing can really prepare travelers for what awaits at this Havelock Island beach. It’s a gift from Mother Nature. Tourists usually congregate by the main access path at the first beautiful spot they see.
So instead, visitors should make their way either left or right to the emptier side of the beach (both are great options). Either direction has fine sand, clear water, and a wide, mirror-like shoreline to reflect the tall palm trees and bright sun. It’s extremely peaceful and the perfect place to find a moment of absolute stillness, punctuated only by the occasional gentle wave. Plan to stay till sunset and possibly repeat the next day.
Radhanagar Beach. Photo: diy13/Shutterstock
But seven isn’t the only lucky number on Havelock Island. Vijay Nagar Beach (Beach Five) is on the opposite coast and is more temperamental than Radhanagar. There, the rhythm of the day is marked by the high and low tides. At low tide, the beach is dotted with boats ashore along the mangrove-fringed coast.
As the water rises, the sea becomes more reminiscent of the nearby Maldives, framed by blueish-green forests on uninhabited islands in the distance. (By the way, they’re John Lawrence Island and Sir William Peel Island.) Vijay Nagar Beach runs into Govind Nagar Beach (Beach Three) and Nemo Reef (Beach Two) to the north.
Nemo Reef. Photo: Nikhil N A/Shutterstock
Just south of Beach Five is the cleanest and most beautiful stretch of another beach known as Kalapathar (which translates to “black rock.”) With a floating bridge, it may look a little touristy, but it’s simply fantastic. Have a dip in the deep turquoise water, then buy a fresh coconut from a nearby stall and head south to the secret part of the island. Black rocks block access through the water for a few meters, but after dodging the rocks and washed-up tree trunks, the path reaches a secluded cove resembling a natural pool. It’s still Kalapathar, but without very many tourists.
Another fantastic Havelock Island beach is Elephant Beach, though it was seriously damaged by the 2004 tsunami. The devastation is still visible today and the partially destroyed beach can be a bit eerie. Perhaps that’s why it’s more renowned as a hub for on-water activities. The choices for visitors are endless, from snorkeling to kayaking, jet skiing, parasailing, “sea walking” (similar to snuba), banana boat rides, and more.
Other Havelock Island outdoor activitiesScuba diving
Photo: vkilikov/Shutterstock
Certified scuba divers (or those wanting to take a class) can choose from several excellent dive shops. Most have storefronts lined up between the jetty and Govind Nagar Beach (Beach Three). DIVEIndia, Andaman Bubbles, and Barefoot Scuba are three of the main shops, any of which go to some of Asia’s best dive sites, such as Jackson’s Bar, Johnny’s Gorge, Dixon’s Pinnacle, and Minerva Ledge.
But for a close encounter with dugongs (the Andamans’ state animal, similar to manatees), nearby Neil Island is the best bet. There are dugongs around the island, but book a trip to a dive site called Dugong Dungeon for the best chance of seeing the gentle, adorable, and endangered mammals.
Hiking
Photo: Juergen_Wallstabe/Shutterstock
On Elephant Beach, there aren’t any bathing elephants, though there once were — they were originally brought to the island during the period of British rule to aid in logging.
While the only elephants left on the island today are in captivity, visitors can still enjoy the beautiful beach, especially if they reach it via a hiking trail (instead of via boat). The trail is open every day from 8 AM to 1 PM and takes less than an hour, meandering through a tropical evergreen rainforest and marshlands. While most of Havelock Island is covered in thick, untouched vegetation and rice paddies, this walk offers a chance to see the island’s endemic flora and fauna without the need for a guide.
Village visits
The historic Port Blair Prison. Photo: diy13/Shutterstock
Visitors who have had enough of the lush natural surroundings (if that’s possible) may want to stroll around Govind Nagar. This is the main village and it’s small but vibrant. It doesn’t offer the same historical attractiveness as Port Blair (the capital of the A&N islands), most well-known for its infamous colonial prison. Nonetheless, it’s easy to feel a strong sense of history while interacting with the islanders in Govind Nagar. It’s mostly Bengali refugees who settled in the Andamans in the 1950s-70s, following the 1947 Partition of India.
There’s a tidy market selling anything from fruits and vegetables to agricultural tools, lots of little businesses like shops and supermarkets, and a few ATMs in the main village. And there’s plenty to choose from food-wise, and the aromas that fill the air will guide travelers to any number of choices: the fresh seafood, curries, daal roti, and other traditional foods taste as good as they smell.
The best places to stay on Havelock Island
Photo: Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Andamans
Most hotels are concentrated in the northeast part of the island, not far from the jetty. There are well-established lodging options for various price points, like Seashell Resort and Spa, Sandyy Wavess, and Wild Orchid Resort. There are also new and modern resorts like Tilar Siro Andaman.
From the jetty, it’s only a 20-minute drive to the west coast on one of the two main arteries of the island. On the west coast, travelers can book a room at the five-star, all-inclusive Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Andamans, or escape in the Andaman-inspired, rustic-chic Barefoot at Havelock. Both resorts are at Radhanagar Beach.
To sleep closer to nature while on Havelock Island, check out the De Foret as it’s deep into the rainforest.
How to visit
Photo: /Nautika Ferry
Though Swaraj Dweep is one of the most accessible islands in the South Andamans, it doesn’t mean the journey is easy – quite the opposite, actually. Direct flights to Port Blair are available from a handful of Indian cities only. After landing, most travelers will want to get to their hotels and the beaches as quickly as possible, but it’s a bit difficult: there are only a few ferries with unpredictable time tables, and tickets need to be booked in advance (especially in high season). Contact companies like Makruzz, ITT, Green Ocean, or Nautika to buy a ticket.
Alternatively, pay a bit extra for a helping hand by booking transportation through hotels or businesses like Experience Andamans.
What makes things a little easier these days is that until at least 31 December 2022, the Restricted Area Permit (R.A.P.) required for non-Indian nationals is lifted for visitors coming from most
countries, including the United States.
Once on Swaraj Dweep, the best way to explore the island is independently, and scooter rentals are only about $6 per day.
When to visit
Photo: diy13/Shutterstock
Havelock Island (and all of the Andaman Islands) has a pleasant temperature year-round. But the best time to head to Swaraj Dweep is between December and April, when it’s warm but with less chance of rainfall on any given day as it’s the “dry season.” The busiest time to visit is December through January.
Generally, it’s constantly quite humid on the islands. Avoid the monsoon season, which runs from mid-May to the end of September, as underwater activities may be canceled and ferries might not be able to operate.
Other Andaman Islands
Photo: DARSHAN KUMAR/Shutterstock
Despite being a bit difficult to reach from Swaraj Dweep – and the fact that some of them deserve a few days of their own – some islands in the Middle and North Andamans are drawing increasingly more attention nowadays as add-on stops to Havelock Island vacations. Specifically, the areas around Rangat (on Middle Andaman Island) and Diglipur (on North Andaman Island) have become rather popular.
Besides beaches, Rangat is well-known for the Dhani Nallah Mangrove Walkway, a short boardwalk trail that leads to a stunning beach. It’s popular for birdwatching and observing sea turtles. On Diglipur, Alfred Caves and Saddle Peak National Park are the main draws. Between the two destinations, travelers can visit a cluster of 41 limestone caves inhabited by swiftlets or hike to the highest peak of Andaman. There’s a lot to fill a few days on the island.
Havelock Island vs Goa
A lively Goa beach. Photo: Rossana Gatti/Shutterstock
Goa is undoubtedly India’s most well-known beach destination, and such popularity comes with crowds – crowds craving the tropical nightlife in North Goa or crowds seeking relaxation and wellness in South Goa. So it’s fair to say Swaraj Dweep is the opposite. It’s one of India’s best-kept secrets, as evidenced by the fact that Goa has nearly 14 times as many tourists as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
While South Goa also has unspoiled beauty (in places like Talpona Beach, for example), Swaraj Dweep is a stronger contender for travelers who the prioritize laid-back beach life and the underwater world, and generally more peaceful, tranquil vacation. It’s not only geographically far removed from India, but at points, its scenery looks more like Maldives than mainland India. It makes for the perfect grand finale to a metropolitan, cultural, or spiritual Indian vacation. 
10 of the Best Caribbean Sex Retreats for Couples
What makes a winning relationship varies from couple to couple — but if there’s one thing we all agree on, it’s that a healthy sex life plays a pretty important role.
Sex boosts happiness and promotes bonding — yet despite this, it’s not common for long-term couples to call their sex lives exciting. To make matters worse, lots of us struggle to talk frankly about these things. The good news? Stepping out of your comfort zone can help. And what better way to do that than at a couples retreat in the Caribbean?
Sex and intimacy retreats are a great way to explore your sexuality and widen your horizons in a judgment-free environment. These places exist to fire up your erotic imagination through everything from nude pool parties and full-on orgies, to orgasm workshops, meditation, and therapy. Throw tropical sunshine and swaying palm trees into the mix, and romance is pretty much a done deal.
So whether your sex life has stalled, or you’re looking to spice up your current routine — a sexy vacation could be just what the doctor ordered. From destinations with a spiritual focus to swingers spots offering carnal fun in the sun, here are 10 of the Caribbean’s finest sex retreats for couples.
We hope you love the couples retreats 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.
Temptation Cancun Resort, Cancún, Mexico
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Who says you need to get the professionals in to spice up your sex life? Take matters into your own hands with a trip to Temptation, one of the Caribbean’s most scandalous getaways.
Get your thrill-fix with a dip in the topless Sexy Pool, which comes with a handy swim-up bar — then treat yourself to a libido-boosting massage before — slipping under the sheets for some x-rated fun (note: public sex isn’t allowed in any of the public areas so do not get it on by the pool, no matter how many rum punches you’ve had). In terms of entertainment, you’re spoiled for choice with theme nights, live shows, and an array of mouth-watering dishes to tuck into at one of the five upscale restaurants. That’s plenty of bang for your buck, as they say.
Intimacy Moons, various locations across the CaribbeanThis luxe couple’s retreat offers group and private sessions, with the latter including eight hours of individual coaching over the course of four days. Group sessions comprise of three-hour workshops over three days, plus a private introduction. Both courses come with check-in sessions post-trip to guarantee your loved-up holiday glow lasts longer than your tan.
Workshops are held at various locations in the Caribbean throughout the year. Check their website for upcoming dates. Retreats include full board and meals, airport transfers, workshop materials, and an array of swoon-worthy couples’ treats, ranging from chocolate tasting to massages.
Intimacy Retreats, Costa RicaFor over 20 years, certified sexologist couple Richard and Diana Daffner have held retreats at various romantic destinations across the US and internationally — plus semi-regular salons in Florida and Costa Rica.
With a strong belief that the couple who meditates together stays together, spiritualism plays a key role in these sessions: attendees learn about meditation and Tantra Tai Chi (a practice pioneered by Richard and Dianna). There’s no nudity or sexual activity during group sessions (couples are given “homework” assignments to complete in private), and at $695 per couple, it’s one of the most affordable options on the list — though you’ll have to source your own accommodation and food. The retreat is also available as a video program for those who can’t make it to the in-person workshops.
Hedonism II, Negril, Jamaica
Photo: Hedonism II
Photo: Hedonism II
Photo: Hedonism
No list of sexy things in the Caribbean is complete without a mention of Hedonism II, Jamaica’s most infamous swingers resort. This clothing-optional establishment gives you the freedoms of a nudist hangout with a few added benefits — namely some risqué games to play with your fellow guests (all optional, of course).
You’ll find everything you need to sate your hedonistic desires here — whether that’s tantra workshops, an extra shot of rum in your punch, or a raunchy rendezvous in the infamous Romping Shop playroom. Speaking of rooms, bedrooms are fresh and bright, with a focus on sex (mirrors on the ceiling? You betcha), and everything’s included from mouth-watering meals to premium drinks and nightly entertainment.
Domme Trips, various locations across the CaribbeanFancy a little pain with your Champagne? Domme Trips is an all-inclusive fetish resort takeover — the ideal getaway for those with kinkier tastes. Let your desires lead in the indoor and outdoor dungeon, get to grips with paddles and whips, and find fresh inspiration in the array of fetish workshops on offer.
As if that wasn’t enough, there are latex fashion shows, theme nights, and games — not to mention as much food and drink as you can handle (luckily latex has a little stretch). While the event is run by female dominants, doms, switches and submissives of all genders and orientations are welcome.
A Celebration of Love, various locations across the Caribbean
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Tropical tranquillity meets fun in the sun with A Celebration of Love Retreat. The itinerary is split into five phases: relax, restore, reconnect, rejuvenate, and renew. There are themed workshops for each, plus excursions, all your meals included, and dinner and entertainment to round off each day.
Held at various locations around the Caribbean (this year’s event is at the luxurious Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa in Jamaica) guests have all meals and most excursions included. You’ll get to see plenty of the surroundings while you’re here too, with sightseeing, walks and more packed into the itinerary. This is a Christian-run retreat — no sermons, but expect faith-led teaching from retreat founders Jared and Kaara.
Couples Therapy Inc., Puerto RicoNot keen on mixing sex with meditation? Here’s one for you. Couples Therapy Inc. offers psychology-backed teaching with zero focus on spirituality or religion. Choose from online courses or weekend retreats where you can get away from it all and really focus on each other. When you sign up, a fully trained sex and relationships therapist will assess your situation via a virtual or in-person session to help you work out where things could do with a little TLC.
Desire Riviera Maya Resort, Puerto Morelos, Mexico
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
No clothes? No problem. With an emphasis on sexy fun, Desire Riviera has long been a mainstay for established swingers, but newbies and curious couples after a raunchy vacation are welcome too.
At Desire, you can go fully nude, or fully clothed. After a round or two of beach volleyball (naked, of course), treat yourselves to a sensual couples’ massage, then top your day off with a candlelit dinner under the stars. Or, if you’re feeling spicy, dress up in your sexiest outfit and dance the night away at one of the many themed parties.
Temptation Cruises, various Caribbean locationsRun by the folks behind Temptation Cancun, Temptation Cruise takes the party from shore to sea and back again. This one attracts a young crowd, and things can get pretty boisterous. Expect endless opportunities for adult-only fun thanks to theme nights, spicy activities, and pumping pool parties. Couples have full access to the R-Rated Red Room to take their x-rated repertoire to new (and public) heights, plus steamy workshops designed to teach you boudoir tricks you can take home with you. Throw in gourmet dining, the full drinks package and non-stop dancing, and you’ve got yourself a seriously indulgent getaway.
Plunge Fetish, Dominican RepublicScandalous delight is on the menu at this kinky resort takeover. Another one for fetish fans, Plunge is open to people of all genders, orientations, and experience levels, so slip on your best leather and latex, and get ready to live out your wildest fantasies in the Dominican Republic.
These seven-day events take place in a secure, gated, boutique hotel set in lush tropical grounds. Lounge by the pool by day, then dress up in your fetish finery for dinner and games after dark. Adventurous couples have dungeons, toys, and a crew of friendly kinksters at their disposal — plus unlimited food and drink to keep energy levels up. Whipping is hard work, after all.
June 13, 2022
These 18 Hotel Rate Guarantees Ensure You Get the Absolute Best Possible Price
When booking a hotel, you may by default turn to third party sites like Expedia, Kayak, or Orbitz so that you can see all of your options in one place. But in nearly all cases you’ll find the cheapest possible rate by booking straight through the hotel thanks to rate match guarantees.
Hotels often have some sort of best rate guarantee. Third-party sites sometimes will try to undercut the hotel by offering a cheaper rate than what’s offered through the brand. The guarantee ensures that the hotel itself has the lowest rate. In some cases the hotel will not only match the third-party price, but will even offer an additional percentage off or other incentives — sometimes you can even get the first night free. So the next time you find an extremely low rate, it’s definitely worth it to cross check with the listed hotel price and find out the rate guarantee the chain offers so you can capitalize on those perks, as noted by the travel blog Travel Is Free.
Hotel Best Rate Guarantees:Hyatt: 5,000 points or 20 percent off lowest rateMariott: 5,000 points or 25 percent off lowest rateHilton: 25 percent off lowest rateRadisson: 25 percent off lowest rateIHG: five times points of lowest rateWyndham: additional 3,000 pointsBest Western: $100 gift cardChoice: $50 gift card or first night freeOmni: 20 percent off lowest rateAccor: 10 percent off lowest rateViceroy: lowest rate and $25 creditKempinski Hotels: 25 percent off lowest rateThe Ascott: honored lower rate and 10 times Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) pointsCorinthia: 10 percent off lowest rateFrasers: 50 percent off first nightLangham: 10 percent off lowest rateAffinia: $50 stay credit plus upgradeMr and Mrs Smith: $50 voucherWith a little bit of research and luck, you could end up saving yourself a lot of dough.
These Wild Basket Rides Are the Best Way To Fly Through Traffic in Madeira
Frequent TikTok users already know that the app is a great way to find under-the-radar things to do, plus the always-useful packing and travel tips. But a new TikTok vid shows something we’ve literally never seen anywhere else: a high-speed ride in a wicker basket screaming down the side of a Portuguese island. And apparently, it hit speeds of up to 18 miles per hour.
@hikeupyourskirt No time to explain – get in the basket! @matadornetwork @visit #madeiraisland #visitmadeira #portugal #themoreyouknow #travelinspiration #seekadventure #portugaltravel #exploreyourworld #historynerd ♬ We No Speak Americano (Original Mix) – Yolanda Be Cool & DCUP
The video, posted late last week, shares the scoop on the Madeira toboggan rides near the capital city of Funchal. (Madeira is a Portuguese island off the coast of Morocco.) The Madeira toboggans, also called baskets, sleds, and sledges, hold up to three people and are steered by two men called carreiros, who wear thick-soled rubber shoes to create friction on the paved road. Using their shoes as brakes, they guide the baskets down the two-kilometer road, avoiding everything from people to potholes to oncoming traffic in the process.
Photo: Matador staff
The “Carreriros do Monte,” named after the neighborhood where the rides start, have operated the Madeira toboggans for more than 100 years. Madeira is a mountainous island, and wealthy people in the early 1900s would build their homes near the top to take advantage of the fantastic views. Instead of walking downhill when they needed to visit stores or administrative offices, they’d have a “carreiro” drive them down in a basket.
Now, rides in the Madeira toboggans are mostly an activity for tourists, but everything else is still the same, from the route to the handmade baskets to the distinctive white outfits and straw hats worn by the drivers.
The cost per ride depends on the number of people in the basket, ranging from €25 for a solo rider to €40 for three people. Kids under age five are free, and travelers can buy tickets at the booth just behind the famous Monte Palace Gardens, at the intersection of Largo da Fonte and Caminho do Monte.
More like thisGalleries14 Eye-Popping Images That Will Make You Fall in Love With Portugal
Wild TikTok Shows Tourists in Baskets Flying Through Traffic in Madeira
Frequent TikTok users already know that the app is a great way to find under-the-radar things to do, plus the always-useful packing and travel tips. But a new TikTok vid shows something we’ve literally never seen anywhere else: a high-speed ride in a wicker basket screaming down the side of a Portuguese island. And apparently, it hit speeds of up to 18 miles per hour.
@hikeupyourskirt No time to explain – get in the basket! @matadornetwork @visit #madeiraisland #visitmadeira #portugal #themoreyouknow #travelinspiration #seekadventure #portugaltravel #exploreyourworld #historynerd ♬ We No Speak Americano (Original Mix) – Yolanda Be Cool & DCUP
The video, posted late last week, shares the scoop on the Madeira toboggan rides near the capital city of Funchal. (Madeira is a Portuguese island off the coast of Morocco.) The Madeira toboggans, also called baskets, sleds, and sledges, hold up to three people and are steered by two men called carreiros, who wear thick-soled rubber shoes to create friction on the paved road. Using their shoes as brakes, they guide the baskets down the two-kilometer road, avoiding everything from people to potholes to oncoming traffic in the process.
Photo: Matador staff
The “Carreriros do Monte,” named after the neighborhood where the rides start, have operated the Madeira toboggans for more than 100 years. Madeira is a mountainous island, and wealthy people in the early 1900s would build their homes near the top to take advantage of the fantastic views. Instead of walking downhill when they needed to visit stores or administrative offices, they’d have a “carreiro” drive them down in a basket.
Now, rides in the Madeira toboggans are mostly an activity for tourists, but everything else is still the same, from the route to the handmade baskets to the distinctive white outfits and straw hats worn by the drivers.
The cost per ride depends on the number of people in the basket, ranging from €25 for a solo rider to €40 for three people. Kids under age five are free, and travelers can buy tickets at the booth just behind the famous Monte Palace Gardens, at the intersection of Largo da Fonte and Caminho do Monte.
More like thisGalleries14 Eye-Popping Images That Will Make You Fall in Love With Portugal
4 Gorgeous International Vacations That Are More Affordable Now Than in 2019
Summer travel has always seen rising prices, but it seems like flights aresoaring to new heights this year. The good news is the dollar has strengthened compared to the euro and other currencies, meaning your travel plans might be a little more affordable than you think. According to Hopper, a budget travel company, because the dollar is worth around 0.94 Euros, travelers to Europe can stretch their budget 15 percent further than last summer and 6 percent further than in 2019. To make finding the best destinations super easy, Hopper found the best international destinations for an affordable price.
Scandinavian countries are your best bet for affordable airfare. A trip to these countries can mean exploring Norway’s beaches, visiting Denmark’s architectural feats, and discovering amazing Swedish towns outside of Stockholm. The dollar has appreciated more than 15 percent in all three countries recently.
If you’re looking to travel in the Americas, the dollar has recently appreciated 20 percent or more in both Chile and Argentina. However, airfare prices for Chile have fallen about 14 percent. While in Chile, explore the parks in Patagonia and travel to Pucón for a volcano- and rapids-filled trip.
Most affordable international destinations for a vacationChile: 14 percent decrease in airfare prices since 2019, 20 percent increase in the value of the dollar since 2021Sweden: 7 percent decrease in airfare prices since 2019, 19 percent increase in the value of the dollar since 2021Denmark: 4 percent decrease in airfare prices since 2019, 15 percent increase in the value of the dollar since 2021Norway: 3 percent decrease in airfare prices since 2019, 15 percent increase in the value of the dollar since 2021To find these low prices, Hopper compared the historical exchange rates and then used its price tracking software to compare current flight prices to previous years.
Rest assured that even though the price of, well, everything seems to be going up, a fantastic vacation is still in arms reach.
5 Food Tours That Show You the Tastiest Side of Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan, is best place in the world to eat. The city is divided into four parts — Central, Northern, Western and Southern Tokyo — and the intricacies of your dining experience depend on where you are in the city. If you want to dive head first or stomach first into Tokyo’s food scene, check out these food tours in Tokyo that you can book via Airbnb.
We hope you love the Tokyo food tours 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.
Tokyo Ramen Tour
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
You can’t do Tokyo without ramen, making this top-rated ramen tour one of the best food tours that Tokyo has to offer. On this tour, you’ll visit three award-winning ramen shops, and at each, you will sample six different mini bowls of ramen, so make sure your stomach is ready for a big day. At each stop, you’ll gain insight into the history and preparation of the style of ramen you are eating. Bet you didn’t realize each ingredient was so critical!
Price: From $112 per person
Visit the world’s largest fish market – Tsukiji (Old) vs Toyosu (New) S.S Tour
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Ready to learn about all types of fish and other fresh seafood? Then this tour is calling you. During this Tokyo food tour, you’ll visit the world’s largest fish market, both the old and new markets, as well as an area off-limits to ordinary tourists. There will be the opportunity to shop at the market and time spent making traditional Japanese cuisine. This tour will also make a stop at the famous Buddhist Sensō-ji temple.
Price: From $133 per person
Vegan Adventure in Ginza
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This tour through the city’s best shopping district is the best food tour in Tokyo for vegans. Don’t worry. The tour starts with a pastry commonly served with matcha tea, and then proceeds through several snacks and light courses before finishing with one of Tokyo’s best-kept secrets — a bowl of vegan ramen. Along the way you’ll learn basic Japanese phrases to make dining out in the country more enjoyable. And, you’ll walk away having a basic framework for how to eat vegan in one of the world’s top foodie cities — and will know your way around Ginza, to boot.
Price: From $82 per person
Street Food Japan food tour at night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Dive into Shimbashi, Yurakucho, and Ginza with this three-hour night tour. Experience the traditional and authentic food and izakaya spots that the city’s salarymen flock to after hard work days. This tour is a great way to experience the heart of the city on foot, and gives you insight into the area’s hidden gems and sights. The best part of this Tokyo food tour is that you will actually have time to enjoy each spot while eating your fill — the tour covers three concepts including a karaage, kushiage and sweets, with time to ask questions along the way.
Price: From $90 per person
Tasting of Tokyo
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Check out the best Tokyo food tour for the general foodie. This experience will make you feel like a local of Tokyo. Try rice flour dumpling covered in sweet soy sauce and a tasty Konbini supermarket fried chicken. Introduce your food palette to new dishes and discover local ingredients with a guide who has spent many years immersed in Tokyo’s food scene. You’ll try ramen infused with yuzu, share fresh sushi, and make your way through the same food halls that the city’s chefs visit to prep their kitchens for the day’s service.
Price: From $172 per person
More like thisFood + DrinkWhat It’s Like To Eat Raw Chicken Sashimi in TokyoThe 5 Best Spots for Trout Fishing in Colorado’s “Gold Medal” Rivers
Trout fishing in Colorado comes in many forms, from high-altitude sessions in the Rockies to casting your line at the bottom of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. More than 300 miles of Colorado’s rivers are designated by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission as “Gold Medal,” meaning they’re among the best spots in the country to fish for trout. To earn the Gold Medal designation, a river has to produce at least 12 trout more than 14 inches long per acre (which is a heck of a big trout).
Check out this map to the five best rivers for trout fishing in Colorado, mapped for easy road-trip planning.
Let’s get fishin.’
Best practices for fishing Colorado’s Gold Medal watersFishing in the high country is as picturesque as it is productive. In order to keep these waters fruitful and healthy for generations to come, many stretches of Gold Medal waters in Colorado are catch-and-release only. If you fish in late spring, be prepared for fast-moving waters — some of the best angling sites on Colorado’s rivers are darn close to the river’s source — and conditions and depths heavily influenced by snowmelt.
Buy a Colorado fishing license from Colorado Parks and Wildlife before heading out. Officers routinely check popular angling sites to make sure everyone is fishing legally, and you don’t want to be part of the problem. Finally, pack a swimsuit. Hot springs, both wild and at resorts, line Colorado’s waterways, and a soak is a perfect post-fishing activity (because a day can never be too relaxing, right?)
Arkansas River: Central Colorado
Photo: Traveller70/Shutterstock
The 204-mile stretch of Gold Medal water on the Arkansas River is the best place for trout fishing in Colorado. Many dedicated anglers in Colorado have their own special spot on the Arkansas somewhere between the Lake Fork Confluence near Leadville and the town of Parkdale (near the Royal Gorge Bridge) where they cast with success — but good luck getting them to spill the beans on the best spots.
Your best bet is to cruise along Tunnel Drive just outside of Royal Gorge Park until you find a dirt pull-off that speaks to you and try your luck. If the trout aren’t biting at one spot, it won’t be more than a couple of minutes’ drive — or a quick stroll downriver — to the next one.
Animas River: Durango
Photo: Barbara K Powers/Shutterstock
Durango is home to a stretch of Gold Medal-certified river within the town limits, which is quite rare. It runs from Lightner Creek in northern Durango to the Rivera Crossing Bridge at Dallabetta Park south of town. In that stretch, you can cast a fly into top-notch trout waters with no off-road driving (or even the need to drive at all, if you live or stay in town).
After a session on the water, stop into Ska Brewing’s World Headquarters in Bodo Park for a pint of Pinstripe Red. You’re bound to find a fellow angler at the bar to swap stories with, regardless of whether you caught anything or not.
Blue River: Silverthorne
Photo: Israel Patterson/Shutterstock
The Blue River has 34 miles of Gold Medal water running from Silverthorne to the confluence with the mighty Colorado River outside Kremmling. It’s not as long as the Gold Medal stretch of the Arkansas, it’s equally productive for anglers. Plus, you won’t find better views of the Rockies anywhere in Colorado, because the Blue itself cut the incredible valley in which you’ll cast your line. Note that you must use artificial lures on the Gold Medal stretch of the Blue.
Colorado River: Kremmling and further west
Photo: Liliya Hutyrchyk /Shutterstock
If you’re keen to spend more than a few hours fishing, make a weekend of it and hit both the Blue and the Colorado. The Gold Medal waters on the Colorado are just a few miles downstream of where it meets the Blue. One of Colorado’s most well-known stretch of trout water is the stretch from Troublesome Creek to the Fraser River confluence outside Granby.
You’ll find many river access points marked along Highway 40, so just pick one (or two) and give it a go. But before you do, stop by Kirk’s Fly Shop in Granby to check in on regulations and advisories, and to chat up the crew about where the fish are currently biting.
Also along the Colorado in Mesa County are the five different areas that make up James M. Robb Colorado River State Park. They’re near Palisade, Clifton, and Grand Junction, and each offers easy river access and ample opportunities to cast your line. At the Corn Lake section, you can even alternate between fishing the river and the lake.
Gunnison River: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Photo: T.Schofield/Shutterstock
For the angler who wants to go big or go home, nowhere in Colorado is better than the stretch of the Gunnison River flowing through Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. For the best experience, stay near Gunnison and work with a local outfitter like Black Canyon Anglers. Fishing in the canyon is exotic, challenging, and highly rewarding, and going with a guide ensures you’ll hit the best spots based on the given conditions to increase your chances for that catch of a lifetime.
The 15 Top-Rated Restaurants on Florida’s First Michelin Guide
Florida is officially the newest state to receive a Michelin Guide in the United States. Late last week, the Michelin Guide revealed its inaugural restaurant picks for the state in Miami, Orlando, and Tampa. It’s one of just a handful of areas in the US to receive the honor, and joins the four other US destinations to have a Michelin guide: New York, Illinois, DC, and California.
According to a press release, 15 restaurants received stars. Fourteen received one star, while one restaurant, L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon Miami, earned two stars. The guide praised the French restaurant’s “thrilling bites,” and specifically mentioned the seared sea scallop with toasted spices as a stand out dish.
The one star picks include a “highly stylized Korean steakhouse” at Cote Miami, “Colombian cuisine presented in a modern and dramatic manner” at Elcielo, and “cooking that sends guests on a gustatory trip” at Los Félix.
“This is a huge deal and honor not only for our restaurant group, but the city of Miami, as Michelin typically only reviews dining rooms in cities like Paris, New York, and Singapore, which are renowned for their refined culinary scene; but now Miami is finally getting recognized as an important food scene as the city continues to flourish with international tourists and residents alike,” Chef Juan Manuel Barrientos Valencia of Elcielo said in a statement. “I think South Florida’s burgeoning culinary movement with visionary chefs and restaurateurs alike, is a true reflection of the elevated direction this city is going in from tech to finance, designer retail shops, restaurants and more. We are no longer considered just a place to party, but being taken more seriously as a desirable destination to live, work, dine, and play.”
The guide also included 29 Bib Gourmand awards, which are a step down from a Michelin star but are still very much worth checking out. Bib Gourmand restaurants are usually less expensive than their Michelin-starred counterparts, and are also more accessible in terms of reservations.
“As you can see, Miami, Orlando, and Tampa have very much to offer to international food and wine enthusiasts,” Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the MICHELIN Guides, said in a statement. “These talented chefs and their committed teams create culinary experiences matched only by the amazing attractions of each city.”
The total number of officially recognized Michelin Guide restaurants is 118, across 35 different types of cuisine, including Korean, Colombian, and Japanese food – leaving absolutely no shortage of upscale, inventive, and exciting dining options throughout the state for travelers and locals alike.
Michelin star restaurants in FloridaL’Atelier de JoËl Robuchon MiamiAriete in MiamiBoia De in MiamiCote MiamiThe Den at Sushi Azabu MiamiElcielo MiamiHiden in MiamiLe Jardinier MiamiLos Felix in MiamiStubborn Seed in Miami BeachThe Surf Club Restaurant in SurfsideCapa in OrlandoSoseki in OrlandoKadence in OrlandoKnife & Spoon in Orlando
Tips for Backpacking With Kids for the First Time
Going for a hike with kids is a great way to get the family outdoors and among nature. But have you ever wondered if it was possible to take it a step further and head out on a multi-day adventure?
The thought of an overnight hike may seem a little daunting at first, especially if your kids are a bit picky about comfort and sleeping. However, having done it many times, I’ve learned from my own hiking mistakes and can assure you it’s not only possible, but very rewarding.
I’ve been taking my two kids into the outdoors since they were 12 months old and recently spent four days hiking with my nine-year-old son on K’gari (formerly known as Fraser Island) on the east coast of Australia. It was an amazing experience, but it was made easier by using the right gear and following the tips for backpacking with kids I’ve learned over the years.
Here’s a useful guide to backpacking with kids, including what gear you’ll need, how to plan, and some tried-and-true ideas to keep everyone happy.
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Research your tripResearching your backpacking trip is essential to its success. Taking into consideration your children’s ages and abilities and find a route that isn’t too technical, long, or dangerous — you want them to enjoy themselves, not feel like they’re being pushed to their limits. To ensure kids don’t lose interest and motivation on the trail, look for interesting features such as creek crossings, opportunities for a swim, or trails with geocaches.
More importantly, don’t forget to research potential dangers and trail features that may make the hike harder. Make sure your children know how to act around wild animals, avoid choosing any trails with steep drop-offs, and avoid trails with no guaranteed water source. On our recent hike to K’gari, I discovered it was dingo breeding season and thought the wild dogs might be a nuisance. So we booked hiker’s camps with Dingo-proof fences and kept our food secured. In most places in the US, there are very specific rules about how you have to handle your food in the backcountry, and many national parks only allow you to camp in designated areas with a reservation (as opposed to wild or pure backcountry camping).
Plan to start small
Photo: Jessica Palmer
Plan to start small for your first time backpacking with kids. I keep daily distances under about six miles, or even shorter if the terrain is rough or uphill. Teenagers should be able to hike longer distances; however, whether they want to is another important point to consider.
On a hiking trip on the Noosa Trail Network in Queensland, Australia, I wasn’t sure how it would go carrying my younger child up the steeper hills with a small hiking pack. So we started small with a shorter three-mile hike uphill to camp for just one night. I quickly learned from this small hike how far my toddler could walk before needing to be carried, and that I would need to drop some weight from my hiking gear before attempting the real deal. It was a good trial for doing a longer trip backpacking with kids.
Starting small ensures the success of the trip, which builds confidence for future adventures. It’s also a great way to learn what equipment you can and can’t live without before committing to a longer hike.
Gear for backpacking with kidsThe most important thing to remember is that your gear needs to be super lightweight as you’ll be carrying your home on your back. Here is a list of must-haves:
Lightweight hiking tentA lightweight hiking tent is essential for backpacking with kids, so buying or borrowing a tent that weighs around four pounds or under is ideal. When it comes to purchasing a tent, check out Nature Hike for that sweet spot between low cost and quality. Younger children will usually have no problems squishing in with an adult into a one-man tent. Both my nine-year-old son and I shared this one-man cloud-up tent on our recent hike, but two-man and three-man options are available.
Hiking packs
Photo: REI
Backpacking with kids means lugging extra food, clothes, sleeping gear, and possibly an extra tent. This also means that both you and the kids will need proper hiking packs to share the load. Although teenagers should be able to manage an adult’s pack, younger kids will need one sized for them. There are some great ones available from REI. Kids too small for a full backpacking pack can carry a daypack with lighter items, such as their clothes and snacks.
Adult overnight hiking packs generally range in size between 40 to 75 liters and children’s between 10 to 50 liters. I use this 40-liter Osprey women’s pack. For kids, I like this affordable Quechua MH500 18L one from Decathlon. We used this on our last hiking trip and I love that it has a height adjustment on the back, so it will last a few seasons before it’s outgrown.
Baby carriers and strollers
Photo: Jessica Palmer
Babies and toddlers will need to be carried, which is where it gets a little tricky. Child carriers are amazing, but even the best ones don’t have enough storage for all of your hiking gear as well as your child. In those instances, you may need to rope in a few extra pairs of hands to help carry the hiking essentials while you lug the kiddo.
I like and used the Karinjo Child Carrier from Kathmandu when my kids were younger, but many hiking parents swear by the Deuter Kid Comfort hiking pack. Alternatively, if your child is young enough for a front carrier, consider using the 360 Ergobaby Carrier, which will then free up your back for a small pack.
Photo: Jessica Palmer
If you love a good DIY project, consider making a hiking trolley. This means you can carry a younger child on your back while you push the hiking gear in front wheelbarrow style. Depending on the design, your kid may even be able to ride on the trolley. Hiking trolleys can be hard to find at camping stores, so many families make their own to suit. In the US, products like this are nearly unheard of, and your option will probably just be a hiking stroller, also called a trail stroller or all-terrain stroller. Note that some parks regulate which trails will allow strollers, so be sure to check local regulations if you’re planning to use it in a highly regulated trail system (like at a US national park).
Hiking bootsI don’t recommend skimping on the quality when it comes to hiking boots, especially when you’ve got kids in tow.
Shoes with a high cuff that tighten around your ankles add ankle support and protect you from scratches and knocks on the trail. However, if you’re doing shorter distances you may be just fine wearing a pair of trail runners; many hikers swear by their lighter weights, breathability, and ease of movement. I prefer a mix of the two, usually opting for a good quality, mid-cut boot that offers the best of both worlds: the ruggedness of a higher ankle, and the flexibility of a lower-cut boot.
Check out Salomon for quality hiking boots. My Salomon mid-cut boots have lasted 11 years and are still going. You may be tempted to skimp on the kid’s shoes because they probably won’t fit 12 months from now. However, REI has some great affordable options in both lower-cut hiking shoes and boot styles.
Sleeping bagsBasically, you’re going to want to choose the lightest and/or most packable sleeping bag that’s warm enough for where you plan to sleep. Mummy bags are warmer and lighter, so they’re usually best for kids as they take up less space in their bags and will keep them cozier at night. You’ll want to buy one in a kid size as an adult version will likely be too cold for smaller bodies.
If you plan on sharing your sleeping bag with your child, a rectangle bag that zips out into a blanket will be a better choice.
Cooking equipment
Photo: Jessica Palmer
You’ll need a hiking stove and fuel, pan, cutlery, bowls, plates, and backcountry soap. This cooking equipment can really weigh down your hiking pack, but thankfully, there are lots of ultra-lightweight options out there designed specifically for backpacking.
The Jet Boil is a popular choice for its ability to quickly reach a boiling point and compatibility with the brand’s accessories such as a cooking pot, frying pan, and coffee press. However, those looking for something a little more affordable might prefer the Optimus Crux Lite Stove that comes with a pot and frypan in the kit.
Photo: Jessica Palmer
Bowls, plates, and cutlery can be purchased in lightweight sets that nest together to use minimal space in your backpacking pack. I like this two-person set from Sea to Summit that comes in at a light 14.4oz (400g).
Unfortunately, unless you’re going for just a quick overnight, you’ll need to wash everything, just like at home. Grab a travel-sized bottle of eco-friendly detergent and something to scrub with, like a sponge or washcloth. I use this complete clean-up kit also from Sea to Summit.
Packing cubesOpening your pack to find your dirty underwear has been mingling with your cooking gear is the ultimate in cringe when you’re backpacking. Packing cubes allow you to separate your hiking gear within your backpack, thus making it much easier to keep things find what you need. On our recent hiking trip to K’gari, a mini packet of Nutella leaked inside my hiking pack, but fortunately, it was contained in a small packing cube and only made a mess of our snacks for the day.
Photo: REI
A pack of three like this set from REI is handy. Store your clothes or food in the large one, cooking gear in the mid-size, and toiletries and medicines in the smaller one.
First aid kitFirst aid kits are a non-negotiable when backpacking with kids, but thankfully, there are now some lightweight options on the market such as this watertight medical kit. It has enough supplies for up to four people for four days.
Water storage and purification
Photo: REI
The age-old adage is to carry one liter of water for every two hours of hiking. You can carry water in either a reusable bottle or water bladder and both have their pros and cons.
Bottles are easier to clean, lightweight, and usually fit in the side pocket of your hiking pack. Water bladders are harder to clean but have a drinking tube that clips to the front of your pack for on-the-go hydration. The flexible shape allows it to fit more places within your bag, though it also means it can slouch and be a bit bulky. I like these collapsable water containers as an excellent compromise between the two.
You’ll need to treat the water you drink in the backcountry, either with water purification tablets or by using a water filter before you fill your bottle. When you research your backpacking destination, be sure to check which method is recommended, as some water sources are much cleaner than others. Never drink from a water source downstream of any livestock, regardless of your purification method. Although technically you can boil water to treat it, this uses up your stove fuel fairly rapidly.
Do a test run
Photo: Jessica Palmer
A test run can be a good way to build confidence and fine-tune what you can and can’t live without on the trail. Pack your bag just like you would on when backpacking with kids, but head out for a day hike closer to home. After your hike, set up in your backyard or local park. Alternatively, consider going to a national park or state park, where you can hike during the day and set up camp at a site with water and restrooms afterward.
Tips to make it easierAllow extra time — kids are notoriously slow hikers.Know when to call it quits. Nobody enjoys hiking in terrible weather or if they’re sore or tired.Let the kids loose with a kid-proof camera like a GoPro. It gives them something to do when the trail gets a little dull.Carry a hiking pole or a large stick. Not only will it take the pressure off your knees, but you can also use it to test water depth, mount your camera, or even as a large tent pole in an emergency. Many kids find them a novelty. After all, how often are they allowed loose with a big telescopic stick?Don’t forget to pack a little treat. Nothing fixes a bad mood like a hot chocolate.If you do enough preparation by researching the hike, ensuring you have the right equipment, and doing a practice run, backpacking with kids doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, it’s pretty darn fun.
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