Matador Network's Blog, page 469
May 10, 2022
Traveler's guide to Icelandic
When visiting Iceland, one of the first things travelers will notice is how widespread English is; from signs and menus to the way locals quickly switch from Icelandic to English to help out visitors find their ways. However, not every Icelander speaks English, and there is real value to learning the basics of Iceland’s language to help you make the best of your trip.
This guide will give you a good overview of Iceland’s language, including Icelandic greetings and other Icelandic words and phrases that will help you connect and befriend Icelanders.
The author:
Michelle Spinei has lived in Iceland for over five years. She studied Icelandic at Mímir and The Tin Can Factory language schools in Reykjavík and at an immersion course in the Westfjords at Háskólasetur Vestfjarða.
Icelandic is the national language of Iceland, home to over 370,000 residents. The majority of Icelandic speakers live in Iceland, but speakers can also be found in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Canada, and the United States.
Present day Icelandic belongs to the North Germanic group of languages, related to Norwegian and Faroese, and has developed from Old Norse, which was brought over from Norway by Viking settlers in the ninth century. Unlike other languages, Icelandic has not changed much throughout the centuries. In fact, there is an Icelandic Language Committee whose job is to keep the language unaltered by the influence of other languages.
According to The Little Book of Icelandic author, Alda Sigmundsdóttir, what makes Icelandic special is, “how little it has changed since the settlement of the country, and how few people speak it worldwide.” Alda explained how knowing some Icelandic can be helpful to visitors in Iceland, “I believe it is always appreciated by locals when visitors try to speak a word or two in the local language, since it shows a willingness to recognize the other’s culture and uniqueness.”
Icelandic language basicsAs a general rule, when pronouncing Icelandic, the stress falls on the first syllable of the word. For example, the capital city of Reykjavík, is pronounced RAKE-yah-veek.Icelandic doesn’t have indefinite articles (a/an) but uses the definite article (the) which is located at the end of the word.The use of compound words is common. For example, the name of the volcano Eyjafjallajökull, is a composite of three words: eyja (island), fjall (mountain), and jökull (glacier).Icelandic pronunciation guideThe Icelandic alphabet is made up of 32 letters, including three letters English speakers don’t use: þ,ð, and æ.
Þ pronounced like “th” is called “thorn”Ð is also pronounced like a soft “th” and is called “eth”Æ is pronounced like “eye” and is called “ash”Icelandic is phonetic and each letter is pronounced.
LetterPronunciationíLike “ee” in “street”ýPronounced the same as “í”éLike “ye” in “yes”eLike “e” in “bed”öLike “u” in “urgent”úLike “oo” in “noon”oLike “o” in “more”aLike “a” in “bar”óLike “o” in “no”eiLike “ay” in “stay”eyPronounced the same as “ei”auLike “oy” in “toy”æLike “eye” in PopeyeáLike “ow” in “now”ðLike “th” in “father”þLike “th” in “thank”Icelandic greetings and common phrasesIt’s useful to know how to say hello in Icelandic, “halló”, which sounds very similar to the English equivalent. The second-most useful phrase is thank you in Icelandic, which is “takk fyrir”.
An Icelandic phrase that is commonly heard is “jæja”. The closest English equivalent would be “well then”. If there is a lull in a conversation, if you want to leave a party, if you’re expressing an opinion — it’s the ultimate filler word.
EnglishIcelandicHelloHallóHiHæGood morningGóðan daginnGood eveningGóða kvöldiðByeBlessWhat’s your name?Hvað heitir þú?My name is…Ég heiti…How are you?Hvað segir þú?I’m good, and you?Allt gott, En þú?See you tomorrowSjáumst á morgun!YesJáNoNeiThank youTakk fyrirSo…SkoWell thenJæjaIcelandic words and phrases to order food and drinks
Photo: Mayer Chan/Shutterstock
Icelandic restaurants often feature dishes of fresh fish and meat, most notably lamb. Popular dishes include plokkfiskur (a stew of potatoes and haddock) and lambafillet (lamb) although most restaurants also offer vegetarian and vegan options.
Iceland’s dining culture is informal, tipping is not required and waiters will not bring you a check at the end of the meal, so you have to go to the bar or counter and pay when you’re finished.
EnglishIcelandicCoffeeKaffiMilkMjólkWaterVatnTeaTeHot cacaoKakóBeerBjórWineVínBreadBrauðButterSmjörCheeseOsturFruitÁvextirCerealMorgunkornSandwichSamlokaSoupSúpaFishFiskurMeatKjötPotatoesKartöflurVegetablesGrænmetiI would like one hot dog with everything (use this phrase at hot dog stands in Iceland to get a hot dog with raw onion, fried onion, remoulade, ketchup, and mustard)Ég ætla að fá eina pylsu með ölluWhat can I offer you?Hvað get ég boðið þér?Are you ready to order?Ertu tilbúin að panta?I’m going to get…Ég ætla fá…Here you areGjörðu svo velThank you (said after a meal to show appreciation)Takk fyrir migIcelandic words and phrases for shoppingWhen shopping, it’s helpful to know how to ask what things cost, and to know the basic words for Icelandic numbers. It’s important to note that most Icelandic stores take credit and debit cards and the local currency is the króna.
EnglishIcelandicWhat does this cost?Hvað kostar þetta?Do you want anything else?Eitthvað fleira?Do you want the receipt?Viltu kvittun?Do you want a bag?Viltu poka?Icelandic sweaterLopapeysaIcelandic woolÍslensk ullZeroNúllOneEinnTwoTveirThreeÞrírFourFjórirFiveFimmSixSexSevenSjöEightÁttaNineNíuTenTíuIcelandic words to describe nature and landscapesPhoto: Nick Fox/Shutterstock
When driving around Iceland, you’re sure to come across long place names that are difficult to pronounce, but oftentimes, these names refer to the geography around. For example, the famous waterfall on the south coast of Iceland, Skógafoss, is a composite word of skógar (forests) and foss (waterfall).
EnglishIcelandicFjordFjörðurWaterfallFossVolcanoEldgosGlacierJökullMountainFjallMossMosiForestSkógurLava fieldsHraunNatural hot springsHverirPuffinLundiSheepKindHorseHesturArctic foxRefurIcelandic phrases for getting around
Photo: oneinchpunch/Shutterstock
Getting around in Iceland is easiest if you have a rental car. Once you fly into Keflavík airport, you can take a bus to Reykjavik, either to the bus terminal or to your hotel.
Transportation options within Iceland are limited to cars and buses (there are no trains or subways in Iceland). Some areas of Iceland have gravel roads and one-lane bridges that require special attention, and driving off-road is prohibited.
EnglishIcelandicPushÝtaPullTogaEntranceInngangurExitÚtgangurRental carBílaleigubíllAutomaticSjálfskipturManual transmissionBeinskipturSingle-lane bridgeEinbreið brúPaved road changes to gravelMalbik endarBlind curveBlindhæðBusStrætóPlaneFlugvélHitchhikingPuttaferðalangurArrivalsKomurDeparturesBrottfarirLost and foundTapað/FundiðExcuse me, can you tell me where I can find Harpa (a famous concert hall in Reykjavík)?Afaskið, getur þú sagt mér hvar Harpa er?Icelandic terms for hiking and outdoor recreation
Photo: Vitalii Matokha/Shutterstock
Camping and hiking is a great way to see the countryside, and it’s important to have proper gear and come prepared with lots of layers in case of bad weather.
EnglishIcelandicSleeping bagSvefnpokiTentTjaldHiking shoesGönguskórRain gearRegnfötMountain cabinFjallaskáliCampingTjaldgistingTo go on a hikeAð fara í fjallgönguHiking trailGönguleiðirTo go fishingAð veiðaWindow weather (when it looks like it will be a nice day, but when you step outside you realize it’s cold and windy)GluggaveðurGood attitude (often said by Icelanders before going on a trip)Góða skapið
More like thisLanguagesThe 15 Weirdest Icelandic Expressions and How To Use Them
This Map Shows Every County in the US That Still Has Drive-In Movie Theaters
Drive-in theaters have been disappearing since their peak in the mid 1900s. In the late 1950s, there were 4,000 drive-in movie theaters in the United States. Today, there are only about 300 left in operation. Although the art of drive-in movie theater seems to be dying, there are still amazing ones across the country, with everything from a 50s cafe on the property to one that hosts a swap meet on the weekends. Reddit user Peteyy34 created a map of counties that still have a drive-in (or multiple) so you can find the closest one to you.
Ohio has the third most with 24 drive-ins, followed by Pennsylvania with 29. And the state with the most drive-ins in the country is New York, with 30. On the other side of the equation, Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana, and North Dakota all have zero drive-ins. Another interesting point from the data: There are currently 10 drive-ins in the United States named the Starlite (or Starlight), making it the most popular drive-in business name.
The largest operating drive-in in the US by car capacity is the Ford Wyoming Drive-in in Dearborn, Michigan. It can hold around 3,000 cars. The smallest is the Spud Drive-in in Driggs, Idaho, holding just 75 vehicles.
States with the most drive-in movie theatersNew York: 30 drive-insPennsylvania: 29 drive-insOhio: 24 drive-insIndiana: 19 drive-insTexas: 18 drive-insTo create the map, Peteyy34 used DriveInMovie.com to find which counties in the US still have drive-in theaters. The map was then color-coded to indicate how many drive-ins each US county has using a one, two, or three-plus scale, as well as whether the county has temporarily closed drive-ins or no drive-ins.
So although drive-ins may not be as popular as they were during the pandemic’s peak, it’s still a great outing worth seeing a flick at.
12 British Airbnbs That Will Make You Feel Like You’re in an Episode of Bridgerton
The return of Bridgerton calls for a roundup of the UK’s most stunning manors, castles, and estates. We’re talking lavish libraries, magical ballrooms, and sweeping lush grounds – perfect for a cheeky game of pall mall! Take a step back in time and bring your Bridgerton fantasies to life at one of these idyllic British Airbnbs.
We hope you love the Bridgerton Airbnbs we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Crayke Manor near York
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Built in 1620, Crayke Manor is often regarded by locals as the most beautiful home in the County. The Jacobean manor sits on a sweeping seventeen acres and comfortably sleeps up to sixteen guests. It is near enough to the closest village to stroll to the pub and far away enough for guests to have their own privacy.
Sixteen guests, nine bedrooms
Price: $1,307 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
At Severn Manor, there is a room for just about everything. The 19th century estate consists of nine bedrooms, a cinema room, billiard room, drawing room, orangery, and much more. Its warm oak fireplaces, gilt-framed oil paintings, and garden hedge maze give this historic English country house lots of character. The manor can host up to 25 guests, or up to 29 when you also book the estate’s cottage.
Sixteen guests, twelve bedrooms
Price: $4,264 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This historic mansion has hosted a number of celebrity guests over the years. In 2011, Brangelina and the whole fam took up temporary residence here while Brad was filming World War Z in Glasgow. Hidden amongst prize-winning gardens on over 2,000 acres of parkland in Ayrshire, it is one of the most luxurious (and most expensive) holiday destinations in Scotland. During your stay at Carnell Estates, you’ll enjoy delicious Scottish dishes served up by your own private chef and can take part in a number of activities like trout fishing, shooting, tennis, or golfing at one of the nearby courses.
Sixteen guests, 10 bedrooms
Price: $3,036 per night
Photo:
Photo:
Photo:
Photo:
Photo:
Nestled away in the Durham countryside, the Castle Eden is an ideal escape. Guests particularly love the fully refurbished dungeon space of this Jacobean castle. Made up of multiple rooms, the dungeon spans the entire footprint of the castle and includes a fully fitted bar, entertainment area, and more.
Sixteen guests, 11 bedrooms
Price: $1,148 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Fawley Court is a stunning country manor located in the heart of Herefordshire, England’s beautiful Wye Valley. With its huge fireplace seating for up to 3 dozen, the manor’s Great Hall is the perfect setting for hosting dinner parties. The property also boasts a total of 13 bedrooms, an indoor pool, hot tub, and a games room.
Sixteen guests, 13 bedrooms
Price: $1,597 per night
Photo: REI
Photo: REI
Photo: REI
Photo: REI
With its immaculately manicured grounds and tastefully decorated interiors, this retreat in the Cotswolds is what country house dreams are made of. The property has five bedrooms and can host up to 10 people. Guests love the kitchen’s traditional wood-fired oven – perfect for a DIY pizza night!
Ten guests, five bedrooms
Price: $1,637 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
At the heart of the picturesque village of Temple Guiting, Gloucestershire, you’ll find Temple Guilting Estate, a gorgeous English estate that offers guests of all ages a luxurious home-away-from-home. British architectural historian Sir Nikolaus Pevsner once described the classic Cotswold Manor as one of the finest, if not the very best of the small Cotswold Tudor Houses. The estate includes a five-bedroom Manor House that dines up to 34 people, a five-bedroom barn, two one-bedroom cottages, and a three-bedroom granary.
Sixteen guests, 15 bedrooms
Price: $7,700 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Milton House is a 10-bedroom country residence located near Bedford, England. You’ll have a hard time dragging yourself away from the indoor pool and spa of this beautiful estate, but there is plenty to do in the local area, too. Explore Bedford town center or head to nearby Twinwoods Adventure Park for adrenaline-pumping experiences like indoor surfing and skydiving.
Sixteen guests, 10 bedrooms
Price: $1,057 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
The Drawlaw House is a gorgeous mansion located near the center of Edinburgh.The charming property has 10 bedrooms, hosts up to 16 guests, and is a popular location for hen weekends. Play a game of billiards in the cozy wood-paneled recreation room or take a stroll through the private gardens.
Sixteen guests, 10 bedrooms
Price: $1,848 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
The Kinnettles Mansion has eight large bedrooms each with its own ensuite. The stunning property also includes a magical ballroom, cinema room, Victorian stone walled gardens, and a summer house. It is conveniently located just five minutes from the seaside town of St. Andrews on Scotland’s east coast.
Sixteen guests, eight bedrooms
Price: $1,052 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Believed to date from 1812, Pinchington Hall is a beautifully appointed Manor House situated in the outskirts of Newbury. The manor’s perfect mix of period classical architecture and comfortable modern living and its convenient location just an hour outside of London make it a great destination for a weekend getaway.
Thirteen guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,029 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Dating from the 17th Century, Binsness House is a wonderfully preserved throwback to centuries past, and its estuary location is simply breathtaking. There is a beach at the bottom of the garden and extensive private woodlands rich with wildlife surround the estate. A number of animals including osprey, seals, otters, and wildcats have all been spotted from the house. The Scottish manor has nine rooms and can host up to 15 guests. Take a 20-minute boat journey over to the pubs in Findhorn, give sea fishing a try, or enjoy the beautiful surroundings from your own private beach.
Fifteen guests, nine bedrooms
Price: $986 per night
Havasu Falls Permits Are Canceled This Year, so Hike To These 5 Iconic Waterfalls Instead
Bad news for hikers who finally snagged a coveted Havasu Falls permit for later this summer or fall — Havasu Falls won’t be opening to tourists in 2022.
The announcement came late last week from the Havasupai Tribal Council. The Tribal Council manages the Havasupai Tribe’s land, which includes Havasu Falls. Access to the falls first closed in March 2020 in light of COVID-19 concerns, and hikers who had permits for 2020 were rescheduled for new dates in 2021. However, in June 2021, the Tribe announced that they were extending the closure until 2022. Hikers who had permits were pushed yet again until 2022.
The new closure means that hikers will have to wait yet another year — until 2023, hopefully — to see the famous blue-green falls of Havasu. Hopefully, because the closure is for maintenance and repairs rather than COVID-19, it’ll be the last one.
However, if you’ve been sitting on your Havasu Falls permit for two or three years and are getting anxious, no problem — Havasu Falls isn’t the only epic waterfall hike that should be on your outdoor bucket list. Just plan a trip to one of these other waterfalls to get your fix until 2023 rolls around.
Vernal and Nevada Falls
Photo: Colin D. Young/Shutterstock
Location: Yosemite National Park, CADistance: 6 miles +Elevation gain: 1,900 feet +Where to camp: Lower PinesThe hike that goes past both Vernal and Nevada Falls is known as the Mist Trail and is one of the most popular in Yosemite National Park — for good reason. On windy days, mist from the massive falls blows onto the trail, creating a refreshing (though occasionally slippery) experience. The trail is a bit steep, especially on the stone steps around miles two and three, but it’s stunning — there’s not a bad view at any point along the trail.
There are a few different routes for the Mist Trail. The shortest and most common route is six miles round-trip and gains about 2,000 feet of elevation, though you can also take a small segment of the John Muir Trail to the top of Nevada Falls and come back down via the traditional Mist Trail. To do that, hang a right at the trail intersection just past Vernal Falls. You can also take the Mist Trail up and come down via the Panorama Trail and Four-Mile Trail, passing Glacier Point in the process. That trail is a total of 11.9 miles and you’ll need to take the free park shuttle back to the starting point, so get an early start if that’s your plan. More information.
Union Falls
Photos: pcfp/Shutterstock
Location: Yellowstone National Park, WYDistance: 15.5 milesElevation gain: 1,930 feet +Where to camp: 9U1 to 9U4America’s first national park doesn’t disappoint when it comes to waterfalls. In fact, there are about 300 waterfalls within the park boundaries. However, many are accessed via rather short trails, so they can get quite crowded. To avoid most tourists, consider taking an overnight trip out to Union Falls, the second-tallest falls in the park at 250 feet high. You’ll need a backcountry permit and will need to stay at one of four backcountry campsites, which need to be reserved online in advance.
It’s not an exceptionally difficult trail, but you’ll need to be bear-aware and should be prepared for an occasional stream crossing, depending on when you go. It’s in the southwest section of the park, so if you have an extra day, consider adding in a visit to Grand Teton National Park while you’re in the state. Union Falls may not give you the same tropical vibes you were hoping for if you applied for a Havasu Falls permit, but it’s definitely on par in terms of beauty. More information.
The Columbia River GorgePhoto: Andrew Zarivny/Shutterstock
Location: Northern OregonDistance: VariableElevation gain: VariableWhere to camp: Ainsworth State ParkThe Columbia River Gorge, not too far from Portland, is known for the many waterfalls lining Route 30. That makes it a prime spot to plan a point-to-point hiking trip or multi-day camping trip where you camp in one place and hike to a different waterfall each day.
You can plan a route of just about any length. Some of the most impressive falls, like Multnomah, require no hike at all, but others will take at least two or three hours to reach. Good options to work into your trip include Horsetail Falls (a three-mile hike), Latourell Falls (a six-mile hike), and Bridal Veil Falls (3.5 miles). The park service created this helpful map to jumpstart your planning. Just check the trail reports before you set out as some are currently closed due to repairs from wildfire damage.
Unlike trips for Havasu Falls permit holders in Arizona, you don’t need to camp to explore these falls. But camping will allow you to beat the crowds and get to the falls before they’re too crowded, so it’s recommended. More information.
Ribbon Falls
Photo: Ronan ODonohoe/Shutterstock
Location: Grand Canyon National Park, AZDistance: 12 miles +Elevation gain: 1,950 +Where to camp: Bright Angel CampgroundIf you’ve spent the last few years since you snagged your Havasu Falls permit exploring all Arizona has to offer tourists, you don’t have to change your plans too much — just hike to a different waterfall in Arizona. One of the best for a multi-day hike is Grand Canyon National Park‘s Ribbon Falls. It’s a tall, narrow stream set against a backdrop of fabulously bright red rock and vivid swaths of green moss.
The hike starts from Phantom Ranch, which means you’ll need to hike to Phantom Ranch first. From the ranch, it’s just over 11 miles to make the round-trip hike to the Falls. If you start from the North Kaibab Trailhead, add on another seven miles to reach Phantom Ranch. And you’ll have to climb out, too. Phantom Ranch back up to the South Kaibab trailhead gains 4,400 feet of elevation, or you could go from Phantom Ranch to the North Kaibab Trailhead, which gains 2,546 feet of elevation over 13.5 miles. Regardless of what route you choose, line up your permits as soon as possible. More information.
Snake Indian Falls
Photo: AllTrails
Location: Jasper National Park, CanadaDistance: 32.4 milesElevation gain: +/- 4,890Where to camp: Backcountry campsitesAt more than 32 miles round-trip, you’ll have to work for the pleasure of sleeping near Snake Indian Falls. While you may have been planning on a warm-weather trip if you had a Havasu Falls permit, if you attempt the Snake Indian Falls hike in the middle of August, you may find that it’s warm enough to at least dip your toes in (well away from the base, of course). The 75-feet-tall falls are in Jasper National Park, and while the aren’t the tallest in Canada, their width and the sheer volume of water make them an insanely impressive sight.
It’s a popular mountain biking route, but hikers can visit it, too. Just get a Jasper National Park backcountry hiking pass. You have to pitch your tent in a campground, so plan your rote to decide if you want to stay at Seldom Inn Campground (the closest to the falls) or Shalebanks Campground, which is a bit closer to the trailhead. It isn’t a very tough trail in terms of elevation gain, gaining under 5,000 feet spread across 32 miles) so you may be able to do it in two days — mountain bikers can certainly do it in one. But if you want to have time to hang out and enjoy the falls, make it a two-night trip to ensure you don’t feel rushed. More information.
More like thisParks + Wilderness11 Spectacular US Waterfalls To Visit This Fall
The Ultimate Food Tour of New Haven, the Birthplace of American Pizza
New Haven, Connecticut, is arguably the exemplar of the American food scene, offering international and organic cuisine, as well as local favorites. Few dispute New Haven’s fame as the birthplace of pizza in the US – brought to these shores by immigrants from Naples, Italy, a century ago. Less well known is that the first hamburger was created there in 1895. And New Haven’s culinary story didn’t end there. Immigrants from across the globe continue to bring new gastronomic offerings to Elm City. Add in a growing focus on sustainable ingredients, and it’s just about time to plan a trip to this leafy New England town, for the restaurants alone. Here are the 11 best restaurants in New Haven, Connecticut.
Pizzas and burgers
Photo: Jay Yuan/Shutterstock
Although the “hamburger sandwich” may have put restaurants in New Haven on the culinary map, pizza is what cemented its place there – and it’s where our gastronomic tour begins. Today, three restaurants in New Haven still serve the thin-crust pizzas cooked in very hot ovens that fuel long lines and strong opinions.
Rather than jump into the fray about who makes the best pizza, I spoke to a recent Yale grad who honed her culinary credentials working at such restaurants as Berkeley’s groundbreaking Chez Panisse. When Victoria Chen was stuck in New Haven during the COVID-19 summer of 2020, she and a couple of friends decided to complete the “full pizza circuit,” she told me.
“I wanted to have the definitive answer,” she said, careful to note that the definitive answer is just in her opinion. After the testing, she concluded, “My personal favorite is Sally’s. I think it’s for gastronomic and emotional reasons.”
Sally’s ApizzaView this post on Instagram
A post shared by Sally’s Apizza (@sallysapizza)
The “Apizza” in the name harks back to the Naples dialect of New Haven’s early Italian immigrants and their word for the Italian tomato pie. Sally’s has remained a family-owned restaurant based in New Haven since 1938, and that’s part of its emotional appeal for Chen, who contrasts that to Pepe’s, now a sizable chain (Sally’s has just one other eatery in the state).
On the culinary level, Chen said, “Sally’s sauce is more balanced.” She also likes its less-charred crust. But she emphasized that her opinion is not shared by all. “My New Haven friends say they’re a Modern family or a Sally’s family,” she added.
Where: 237 Wooster St., New Haven, CT 06511
Frank Pepe Pizzeria NapoletanaFor all the “muttering about how Pepe’s is a big chain,” as Chen put it, the pizza-maker has grown to over a dozen locations across the eastern seaboard for a reason. And to the many who come to stand in line in New Haven, eating where it all began in 1925 – a decade before the competition opened its doors – seems worth the wait. Although the Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana started serving only tomato pizza a near-century ago, it eventually introduced the “white clam pizza” in a fit of immigrant ingenuity. Made with Romano cheese, fresh garlic, and parsley, rest assured that the white clam pizza is tasty – even if the sound of shellfish on your pizza sounds unappetizing to the uninitiated.
Where: 157 Wooster St., New Haven, CT 06511
Modern ApizzaView this post on Instagram
A post shared by Modern Apizza (@modernapizza)
Modern is only modern in that it was founded after Pepe’s, but it in fact opened in 1934, four years earlier than Sally’s – selling its first pizzas for 25 cents apiece. When the coal byproduct that fueled New Haven’s pizza ovens was no longer available, Modern switched to using oil, but kept that high heat that makes for the signature charred crust of New Haven’s apizza-style pies. That one thing that really is more modern about Modern is that it loads up some of its pizzas with more cheese and more toppings overall, eschewing the restrained Old World approach that is traditionally sparse with toppings. The Italian Bomb is chock full of sausage, pepperoni, and bacon, with a touch of onions, mushrooms, and garlic, too.
Where: 874 State St., New Haven, CT 06511
Louis’ LunchIf the meat-ful Italian Bomb sounds appealing, then your next stop in New Haven should be at Louis’ Lunch, the first place where a ground beef pattie was placed between two slices of bread. You can get pretty much the same thing today, with patties cooked on the same cast-iron grills that have been seasoned with use for over 120 years. The burgers come on a white bread toast with cheese, onions, and tomato. The condiments are up to you.
Where: 261 Crown Street, New Haven, CT 06511
World flavorsChen says she appreciates that so many restaurants in New Haven are run by immigrant families, making for a plethora of flavors and dining that doesn’t bust your budget. In Chen’s view, the New Haven food scene “really reflects the city, and I really grew to love the city during my time there.”
Portobello Latin Food Truck“New Haven is a great place to be a student. It has affordable food,” said Chen. Immigrants from Ethiopia, India, Japan, and Mexico, to name a few, have opened restaurants in New Haven. Many also run food trucks – with over a dozen coming weekdays for lunch to one corner of New Haven near the Yale ice rink. One food truck Chen is particularly fond of is the Portabella Latin Food Truck.
“It’s run by the loveliest couple,” said Chen of Portabella. “There are other arepa spots in New Haven but there is something about that place. I think they’re the best.”
Arepas, by the way, are scrumptious Colombian or Venezuelan stuffed cornbread griddle cakes.
Where: Corner of Sachem and Prospect Streets; Monday- Friday from 11:30am to 2:30pm
SherkaanView this post on Instagram
A post shared by Sherkaan (@sherkaanct)
New Haven has plenty of Indian restaurants, and you’ll eat well at all of them, but the ambience at Sherkaan is an extra plus. Inside, a ceiling full of bicycles and an up-close mural of an Indian train add an interesting vibe that reflects the Sherkaan’s menu, which focuses on Indian street food. A handful of outside tables also offers excellent people watching in this pedestrian cross-campus intersection. From the Punjabi samosas to the goat curry, every flavor excites.
Where: 65 Broadway, New Haven, CT 06511
September in BangkokView this post on Instagram
A post shared by September In Bangkok (@septemberinbangkok)
September in Bangkok does offer some Thai classics, like an excellent green curry or vegetarian pad Thai. But the kitchen offers up so much more to explore, like Thai tacos or a pulled pork pad see ew. The cocktail menu is also worth exploring – but only if you are prepared to Uber back to your hotel if it’s not actually September when you are dining there. Come in January and the 15-minute walk back to the New Haven Green could feel longer.
Where: 754 State St., New Haven, CT 06511
Coffee and ice creamAs home to Yale University, New Haven has more than its fair share of cafes, bookstores, and cafe-bookstores. It’s also got plenty of places for quick snacks between classes or a late-night food craving.
Atticus Bookstore Café and Atticus MarketView this post on Instagram
A post shared by Atticus Bookstore Cafe (@atticuscafe)
Besides being a great independent bookstore, Atticus serves up some delightful breakfast options like a stacked avocado toast on tasty whole-grain bread. It got so popular as a place to grab a bite that last year Atticus opened a market in New Haven’s tony East Rock neighborhood.
Bookstore Café: 1082 Chapel Street, New Haven, CT 06511
Market: 771 Orange Street, New Haven, CT 06511
Arethusa is a dairy farm in Litchfield, Connecticut, the hilly swath of the state that is sometimes known as the “other Berkshires.” The farm also has stores in a couple of lucky Connecticut towns, New Haven among them. While you could stop in for milk and yogurt, the real reason to drop in is for freshly made, ultra-sumptuous ice cream.
Where: 1020 Chapel St, New Haven, CT 06510
Farm-to-tableIt’s not all noodles and snacks in New Haven. For a more upscale meal, two restaurants offer up fresh, season-based menus that pair better with a glass of wine than a draft beer.
Harvest Wine BarLocated across the street from the Yale University Art Gallery, Harvest serves up Italian inspired fare like beet and chevre croquettes, or lamb and wild mushroom linguine. Now a chain with three other restaurants in Connecticut, Harvest’s quality isn’t as consistent as it once was, but the service is always spot-on and the location – you can eat inside the cozy wood-paneled dining room or outside in a airy but protected nook down a set of stairs – makes for an enjoyable dining experience.
Address: 1104 Chapel St., New Haven, CT 06511
HeirloomView this post on InstagramA post shared by Heirloom (@heirloomnewhaven)
Just like the above restaurant, Heirloom wears its farm-to-table credentials on its sleeve – or at least in its name. The upscale restaurant inside The Study hotel offers tempting dishes like blistered shishito peppers and a butternut squash risotto. Some dishes sing while others only hum, but the ambience and decor befit the visiting lecturers and professors you may find dining here.
Address: 1157 Chapel St., New Haven, CT 06511
Why People on This Tiny Greek Island Live so Much Longer Than the Rest of the World
There is no secret formula for how to live a long and happy life. But there are five regions around the world where life expectancy is measurably longer. These territories are dubbed Blue Zones, and they are located in Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Nicoya, Costa Rica; Ikaria, Greece; and Loma Linda, California.
National Geographic Fellow and bestselling author Dan Buettner came up with the concept of Blue Zones. In a recent TikTok, Buettner reports from Ikaria which is a tiny Greek island off the coast of Turkey. Buettner says Ikaria is “one of the most extraordinary” of the Blue Zones. In this community, he remarks inhabitants suffer one-fifth of the rate of dementia as is experienced in the United States. Geography, culture, diet, lifestyle, and general outlook on life are all contributing factors to the relative absence of mental and physical diseases.
@danbuettner #bluezones #bluezonesdiet #bluezoneskitchen #ikaria #greece #tea #healthtok #wellbeing #travel #wonderlust #coffee #health #dementia ♬ Love You So – The King Khan & BBQ Show
Buettner and his team of researchers pinpoint nine specific lifestyle habits that are common to Ikaria and people who live in areas with the highest life expectancy.
1. Incorporate natural movement throughout the dayEven in old age, Blue Zone inhabitants continue to live very physical and active lifestyles. Rather than being habitually sedentary or having set aside time for exercise, jobs and social activities keep them moving all day.
2. Eat plant-based dietThe diet in Blue Zones largely comprises of seasonal vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and nuts. It’s estimated that 95 percent to 100 percent of the food consumed is plant-based.
3. Have a purposeThis is your reason for getting up in the morning and what keeps these communities motivated into older age.
4. Put family and loved ones firstFamily is the top priority in Blue Zones. In many of these cultures, elders will live with children or grandchildren, and families gather and eat together daily.
5. Enjoy a glass of red wineFour out of the five Blue Zones incorporate moderate drinking into their daily lives. Red wine, which has natural antioxidants, polyphenols, and anthocyanins, is a common favorite beverage.
6. Stop eating when you’re 80 percent fullMany of the residents in the communities in Blue Zones take time to eat mindfully and consume much smaller portions than those typically served in the US.
7. Follow a faith or religionDuring Buettner’s initial research for his two books, he interviewed 263 centenarians from the five Blue Zones. Only three out of the 263 were not a member of a faith-based community.
8. Stay loyal to a tribeHaving a tight-knit healthy and positive thinking community directly affects mental health. The research into Blue Zones has found that these strong support systems exert a positive influence and encourage healthy behavior.
9. Take time to de-stressLow-stress lifestyle is common among all Blue Zone regions. Chronic stress is all but uncommon with residents and they claim this is because of the combination of their holistically healthy lifestyle.
Best underrated gay beaches
If you Google “gay beach,” you’ll find lists featuring the man-packed islands in Greece, the gay fantasia of Fire Island, and all the other heavy hitters like Barcelona, Ibiza, Miami, and Tel Aviv. But for those adventurous enough to stray from the pack, the world’s less obvious gay beaches still leave plenty of room for surprise. From little-known communities in places like Hong Kong, lakeside sanctuaries in Toronto, and beautiful stretches that get overlooked, these safe havens will be revelations for even the most experienced gay beach expert. Unless you are part of the local LGBTQ+ community, these havens can be hard to find. We’ve put together a list of our favorites along with tips on how to get there and a handy map for reference.
1. Mi Cayito — Havana, Cuba
Photo: Tupungato/Shutterstock
Cuba isn’t the first country that comes to mind when considering a gay beach vacation. The country’s LGBTQ+ laws are just like the 1950s automobiles found all over the island: antiquated.
Still, there’s something romantic about Cuba’s old-school gay scene. With little available WiFi, gay meetup apps like Grindr are quiet, so cruising, that age-old pick-up technique, is still an integral part of queer life.
There’s no doubt you’ll find queer folks hanging around Havana’s waterfront street called the Malécon, but if you’re looking to meet locals somewhere even more scenic, head to Mi Cayito, Havana’s unofficial gay beach.
A 30-minute drive east of Havana, Mi Cayito is a white-sand refuge overlooking the Caribbean’s warm cobalt waters. Rainbow flags attract a diverse crowd spanning all ages and genders. If you don’t have a car, LGBTQ+-friendly car service My Cuban Taxi has this beach on its map.
2. Jacob Riis Beach — New York, US
Photo: DmitriyK2009/Shutterstock
Fire Island is a superlative summer escape for queer New Yorkers, as long as you have the resources for a lavish weekend getaway. For many without that privilege or time to leave the city, you can turn to Jacob Riis — an affordable, friendly seaside park on the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens.
The queer section, in front of an abandoned hospital on 149th Street, gives off a distinctly Eastern European vibe. On weekends, a sea of beach blankets practically stacked on top of one another form a non-stop beach party inclusive of all genders, races, and sexualities. Between all the people dancing, drinking, and splashing about, it’s nearly impossible to walk away without making a slew of new beach buddies.
To reach the beach from Manhattan, take a subway to the Q35 bus line and get off at Rockaway Beach Boulevard.
3. Playa Chihuahua — Punta del Este, Uruguay
Photo: Olaf Speier/Shutterstock
Uruguay is often bypassed for neighboring Brazil and Argentina. But with some of the most LGBTQ+-friendly laws on the books, it’s high tide travelers give this destination the recognition it deserves.
Punta del Este, a veritable South American St. Tropez, is Uruguay’s favorite beach-town destination with some of the most prized sandy expanses on the continent.
For LGBTQ+ crowds, head to Playa Chihuahua — a clothing-optional magnet for queer folks located 20 minutes from the city center. Here, golden sands covered in a bevy of bare booties stretch for miles backed by fresh-water lagoons and patchy forests. In high season (December through February), gay men congregate on the far right end of the beach facing the ocean.
4. Lokrum Island — Dubrovnik, Croatia
Photo: ARK NEYMAN/Shutterstock
Lokrum, an Adriatic island accessible by ferry from Dubrovnik’s Old Town, doesn’t rank high on the list of Europe’s most famous queer summer enclaves. Mykonos, Sitges, and Ibiza are all stiff competition for that title.
Still, this outpost from Croatia’s mainland is perhaps the most idyllic. Nicknamed “Lovers Island,” this fantasyland attracts romantically minded travelers looking to sightsee without Dubrovnik’s teeming tourist activity. On top of exploring the remnants of a Benedictine monastery, meeting the island’s parties of peacocks and rabbits, and finding expansive views of Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls, gay travelers will be happy to know they’ve got a beachfront all to themselves.
To reach the gay beach, walk left from the ferry port until you spot a sign that says “FKK,” which marks the island’s swimsuit-free section. Make a right at this entrance, and you’ll eventually find nude men lounging on large slabs of dolomite rock and jumping into aquamarine waters from the cliffs above. It’s easy to lose track of time in this secluded rock oasis, so set yourself an alarm: In the summertime, the last ferry back to the mainland is at 7:15 PM.
5. Hippie Hollow — Austin, Texas
Photo: Philip Arno Photography/Shutterstock
If you’re looking to catch a full moon in the Lone Star State, Hippie Hollow is the place to go. A 30-minute drive from downtown Austin, this limestone-lined park is the only legally recognized nude beach in the entirety of Texas.
It’s also a popular gathering place for the local queer community. When the warm weather permits, there’s always a handful of friendly homos sunning their hotcakes on the cream-white cliffs jutting out from Lake Travis.
For those who want a crowd, several well-attended LGBTQ+ events take place in the area throughout the summer. These include Splash Days — two queer events held around Memorial Day and Labor Day — and the annual Hippie Hollow Otter Fest, which attracts furry boys and their friends to the area.
Be warned — this is an adults-only area, and all visitors must be at least 18 years old to enter the park. To reach the gay section, follow the series of steps down from the entrance. Once you reach the paved walkway below, take a left, and wind your way until the pavement ends. Most of the gay community will be waiting for you on the rocks extending beyond the trail.
6. Hanlan’s Point Beach — Toronto, Canada
Photo: BYUNGSUK KO/Shutterstock
“Beach” and “Toronto” aren’t exactly synonymous. Still, the local queer community flocks to the waterfront at Hanlan’s Point Beach as soon as warm weather permits.
A 15-minute ferry ride from downtown, Hanlan’s Point is a come-as-you-are and wear-what-you-please section of Centre Island. To find the LGBTQ+ community, follow signs for the clothing-optional beach from the ferry dock. A gentle stroll through meadows, aspen trees, and along low-lying dunes ends at this swim-friendly Lake Ontario stretch of sand. While the icy water may not be inviting for most, it’s worth checking out this urban island if only for the jaw-dropping views of Toronto’s shimmering skyline.
7. Flaucher Island — Munich, Germany
Photo: WalterWeiss/Shutterstock
Gay life in Munich feels provincial compared to the vibrant queer scene in nearby Berlin, but in summer, this Bavarian city offers access to a gay beach unmatched by anything you’ll find in Germany’s capital of cool.
Flaucher, a pebble-shore park on the Isar River, is a clothing-optional destination for locals looking to soak up summer’s sun. A mere half-hour stroll from the city center, the easily accessible section of shoreline attracts a diverse group of naturists.
Accessing this gay beach requires a little effort. Gay visitors must wade through the river’s icy alpine waters to lounge on the rocky island colonized by queer sunbathers.
On particularly hot days, you’ll find men — both naked and not — sitting on the rocks and occasionally jumping in the river for a refreshing respite from the heat. The shape and size of these outcroppings changes as waters flow from the mountains, but the island’s forest (a well-known cruising location) is firmly rooted in place.
8. Herring Cove Beach — Provincetown, Massachusetts
Photo: Halee Burg/Shutterstock
It’s no secret that Provincetown is North America’s preeminent gay summertime destination, but finding the secluded gay beach still feels like an Odyssean quest.
Although technically a part of Herring Cove, the section popular with gay men is most accessible from an unmarked entrance on 6A Provinceland Road near Bradford Street. From here, a 20- or 30-minute hike through spongy sands will lead you to two grass-topped dunes on the left-hand side while facing the sea. Be sure to know where you’re going — the path floods with waist-level water at high tide, leaving no discernible trail to or from the entryway.
For those brave enough to take the journey, the rewards are manifold. Bundles of boys congregate around the dunes to throw picnic parties with friends, wade in the refreshing Atlantic Ocean, and soak up the sun — many in the buff. If you don’t want to wade through deep waters, it’s best to visit in the morning and leave as the tide rolls inland.
9. La Playita — Quepos, Costa Rica
Photo: Stefan Neumann/Shutterstock
At the west end of Playa Espadilla on the western coast of Costa Rica, La Playita has a long history as a meeting place for gay men.
Like so many other LGBTQ+ beaches, visiting this powder-sand paradise isn’t for the faint of heart. To arrive, visitors must first cross a series of sharp, slippery rocks. Once there, it’s imperative to keep track of time — the beach becomes inaccessible at high tide, so unless you’re looking to live out your Tom Hanks Cast Away fantasy, plan accordingly. With a lush, wild jungle at your back and turquoise waters stretching before you, this is ostensibly the most picture-perfect beach on this list.
10. Bellevue Beach — Copenhagen, Denmark
Photo: tomtsya/Shutterstock
With summer temperatures ranging from 64- to 75-degrees Fahrenheit, Denmark may not be high on your list as a beach destination. Still, for gay travelers in Copenhagen, Bellevue Beach is an ideal place to enjoy the summer sun.
To get there, take public transit from Copenhagen Central Station to Klampenborg, a charming fishing village with access to the prized green pastures of Deer Park. Bellevue Beach sits just east of here, and the gay section — also a nude beach — is at the northern end past the quaint 1930s pier.
The beach is most crowded in July and August when folx soak up as much vitamin D as possible before the short-lived summer ends. You’ll find most of them lying about the beach’s long stretch of soft white sands. Splashing around the chilly water is only for those with blood as thick as a Viking’s.
11. Middle Bay Beach — Hong Kong
Photo: Windermere Group/Shutterstock
Hong Kong’s unofficial gay beach feels like a well-kept secret. Sandwiched between the ever-popular Repulse Bay and South Bay Beach, this overlooked stretch of shoreline is inaccessible by public transit, so visitors willing to go the extra 15 minutes by foot can usually expect some solitude.
The northern side of the beach is where queer action comes to life, but on warm weekends, you’ll find gay folks dotting the entire shoreline. Backed by a verdant cliff-side string of trees, escaping to Middle Bay Beach for even an afternoon can feel like floating hundreds of miles away from the non-stop streets of Hong Kong.
12. McIver’s Ladies Baths — Sydney, Australia
Photo: McIver’s Ladies Baths/Facebook
In 1886, a natural salt-water bath was built into the cliffside just south of Coogee Bay as a safe, shark-free swimming hole exclusively for ladies.
Although it isn’t necessarily a gay beach — mothers with children, Islamic women who want to shed their hijabs, and straight gal pals all take advantage of the area — it’s well known as an attraction for Sydney’s sorority of Sapphic sisters.
The pool area, carved into the sandstone rocks overlooking Wedding Cake Island, provides women an opportunity to swim in whatever state of dress they find appropriate.
Ladies lounge topless on grassy cliff-top perches, swim laps in bathing caps, or float in the calm waters while staring into the azure sky. It may not have the pomp associated with the gay-male-dominated North Bondi Beach, but that’s precisely why most folks come here instead — to spend some time alone with the ladies.
May 9, 2022
11 Unique Airbnb Colorado Rental Homes for Your Next Group Vacay
Colorado is awash with vivid mountain vistas and forestland punctuated with ski resorts and hiking trails. The best places to stay in Colorado come with the perk of direct access to the slopes, hiking trails, or fishing spots. Luxurious, après-stlye lodgings with hot tubs and movie theaters invite you to wind down after a day exploring the Great Outdoors. We’ve found the perfect Airbnb Colorado for all seasons.
Best Colorado Airbnbs with poolBest ski-in/ski out Airbnb ColoradoBest places to stay in Colorado with petsBest places to stay in Colorado for large groupsWe hope you love the Airbnb Colorado vacation homes 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.
Best Colorado Airbnbs with poolLuxury dome with indoor pool
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
There’s glamping, then there’s…this. Nestled in the woodlands outside Nathrop, central Colorado, this one-of-a-kind geodesic dome is fitted with an indoor hot spring plus a separate Jacuzzi. The swim space is positioned to maximize views of Mount Princeton. An open-plan design split over two levels makes it easy to stretch out in the yurt. Traveling chefs will be gladdened with the kitchen where gourmet meals can be prepared to savor on the patio.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $600 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Located in Steamboat Springs, this sublime Colorado Airbnb comes with an indoor swimming pool and hot tub. Pool floats, toys, and safety vests for kids are provided. The loft has been converted into a movie room with a Nintendo Wii and there’s a foosball table, billiards table, and gym on the lower floors. A sheltered deck, upper balcony, and a backyard provide ample space for garden parties and downtime.
Sixteen guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,250 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Pitched as an angler’s paradise, the lakeside cabin offers unobstructed views and premier fishing potential. Brand new to the Airbnb Colorado scene, the cabin comprises two master suites, a lounge loft, and a state-of-the-art kitchen. Outside you’ll find a grill and a patio with a fireplace and jacuzzi. Situated on the shore of Lake Estes, northern Colorado.
Eight guests, two bedrooms
Price: $730 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This slopeside penthouse is one of the best ski-in/ski-out Airbnbs in Colorado. Not only do you benefit from direct access to Vail Mountain via the Eagle Bahn Gondola, but your private ski valet will handle your gear. The deluxe condo is curated with artwork from local artists, designer furniture, and plush upholstery. A rooftop pool, spa, and gym are at your disposal during your stay.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $505 per night
Traveling to Colorado? Check out Matador’s Colorado accommodation guides to the best places to stay across the state: 10 Airbnb Estes Park rentals near Rocky Mountain National ParkThese Denver airport hotels put you close to the terminal with luxe amenitiesThe best Airbnbs in Denver for beer, 420, and mountain cultureVail Airbnbs that make you feel like you’re in the heart of BavariaAspen Airbnbs to chill like a celebrityStay near Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak at these Colorado Springs AirbnbsCasa de Montaña
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Casa de Montaña is a unique ski-in/ski-out Airbnb Colorado for large groups. Located in Winter Park, the rental home offers direct access to the Corridor ski trail. After a day on the slopes, the lodge caters to all your après needs: bar (check), hot tub, (check), soaking tub (check). Other quirks include a Pac-Man arcade game and gas fireplaces in the suites.
Sixteen guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $1,750 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This gorgeous Buena Vista Colorado cabin is built right on the banks of Cottonwood Creek and grants private access to the hot springs. There’s no better place to immerse yourself in the lush nature than the private hot tub on the deck which is stacked to provide a variety of views. Fire up the grill for an alfresco dinner before hunkering down around the wood burner in the lounge. Pets are welcome to share the adventure.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $630 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This pet-friendly Vail Colorado Airbnb is the closest you’ll find to a treehouse. The lodge was created by the hands of a renowned Denver architect with superior mod-cons and a comprehensive gym. Patios remain toasty with fire pits and barbecue grills. Meanwhile, the rooftop patio is set up with an eight-person hot tub with 360-degree mountain views.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $1,950 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
A breezy drive east of Fort Collins, this pristine Airbnb Colorado rental home with spa occupies a renovated farmhouse. Interior spaces are bright and light with tasteful decor. Stellar home entertainment includes a movie room with flip chairs, a billiard and foosball table, and a hot tub in the backyard. If you fancy stretching your legs then a series of trails start from the property.
Thirteen guests, six bedrooms
Price: $695 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This luxury pad near Breckenridge offers 11,000 square feet of elegance. Interiors are a hybrid of alpine chic with a stately country estate. Communal spaces include a bar with a pool table, a movie theater, and a “secret” games room behind a bookcase – handy for clandestine poker nights. Kids can entertain themselves with the indoor slide while adults wind down in the hot tub with views of the forest. If you thought it couldn’t get any better, wait until you hear about the heated toilet seats.
Fourteen guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $1,720 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Super views coupled with super amenities make this Colorado Airbnb near Mountain Village a super pick for your mountain getaway. Huge windows and multiple decks put you in the heart of the scenery. You’ve got a fire pit and a hot tub for keeping warm on nippier evenings while an indoor games room provides endless hours of entertainment. The upper master bathroom is engineered with a view over the Sneffels Range from the shower.
Sixteen guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,115 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This Lone Tree Airbnb is a 25-minute drive to downtown Denver and is one of the best places to stay in Colorado for a mix of urban and rural. Communal spaces and bedrooms are livened up with kooky pieces of art and murals while oak beams add even more character. You’ll find a hot tub on the back porch overlooking a vast lawn and a basement bar with a billiards table downstairs. The ranch features a “relaxation” room that doubles up as a workspace or games room.
Sixteen guests, eight bedrooms
Price: $995 per night
California’s Upcoming All Day I Dream Festival Combines Art, Music, Wellness, and Camping
Coachella and Stagecoach have come and gone, but if you’re daydreaming about returning to sunny California for another epic festival, The All Day I Dream Festival plans to fully immerse you in another world using art, music, food, wellness, and a community of dreamers.
The All Day I Dream Festival is hosting its inaugural three-day event from May 12 to May 15 on 82 acres of land at Woodward Park & Lake. This music festival is for people 21 and older except for children 12 and under. Festival-goers can expect to enjoy four sound stages, camping areas with specific amenities, yoga and health and wellness activities, gourmet food vendors and bars, a vendor village, art cars, and art installations all around the grounds.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by All Day I Dream (@alldayidreamintheclouds)
Attendees are encouraged to be self-sufficient and are welcome to set up camp and create tiny communities on the large stretch of land. Guests can enjoy art installations like HOLOREALMʓ, created by Öona Dahl and Julia Sinelnikova, also known as ORACLE666. HOLOREALMʓ is an audiovisual experience that uses music, sculpture, lighting, and performance art to create a fully immersive experience. Think of it like Alice tumbling down the rabbit hole to Wonderland. Other art installations include the Forest of Dreams, the Polymorphic Duo, and the Dream Vortex. The festival also promises unique cuisine and a Wellness Sanctuary, where guests can enjoy yoga, sound healing, meditation, and other activities.
EDM music lovers will be excited about the lineup. Festival headliners include Little Dragon and RY X, and it features other artists like Cubicolor, Guy Gerber, Lee Burridge, Poolside, Yokoo, and more, beginning at 2 PM on Thursday. To get to the music festival, attendees can fly into Stockton, San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland, Concord, or Sacramento airport. The festival is about a 1.5-hour drive from San Francisco and a five-hour drive from Los Angeles. Once festival goers reach the massive park (ticket-holders will also need a car or RV pass for entry), it’s a windy road to get inside, so drive safe.
Although glamping tickets are sold out, you can still purchase one, two, and four-day passes with the necessary car or RV pass. Tickets start at $100 for those 21-and-over, and $20 for children 12 and younger. Get ready for an experience you’ll never forget.
Hiking Is One of the Best Ways To See Iceland — if You Follow This One Important Rule
The Icelandic wilderness looks almost otherworldly. Flowers and trees are sparse on the mountainous and rocky terrain, but what you will see is a lot of lush green moss covering the hillsides and bordering the many hiking trails in Iceland. And while it might be tempting to reach out and feel that intriguing moss, it’s important to resist the temptation. In fact, touching the moss is a big mistake most people make while hiking in Iceland for the first time.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Victoria Yore + TJ Drysdale (@followmeawaytravel)
In an Instagram reel titled “Biggest mistake in Iceland,” created by Victoria Yore and TJ Drysdale, who run the account @followmeawaytravel, the narrator reveals that hikers can kill or damage moss if they touch or walk on it. The video (which specifies that there are around 600 species of moss in Iceland) warns viewers that this ancient moss, which covers nearly every outdoor surface in Iceland, might look “squishy” and beautiful but it should be treated with respect and care, as its likely been growing for thousands of years.
Photo: wayfarerlife/Shutterstock
Some walking and hiking paths in Iceland are roped off, keeping visitors away from the moss (although even in that case, you might be tempted to reach across the ropes and touch the moss, even with just a finger (don’t do this either), but there are other hiking routes that are not as closely monitored. On those more isolated and untamed hiking paths, hikers should be especially cautious about avoiding mossy patches on the trail.
In the caption of the video, Yore and Drysdale write, “I did this on my first trip to Iceland and I didn’t know. Nobody told me. And I’m ashamed. Most tourists don’t know.” In the narration, Yore also says “nobody talks about,” avoiding the moss. It’s hard to say how accurate this is: According to Visit Iceland, most of the park rangers actually do constantly emphasize that hikers and other visitors should steer clear of the moss – especially after Justin Beiber visited Iceland and posted a video rolling around on the fragile moss, which did not go over well with park rangers.
Even if the message actually is widespread in Iceland, it’s still worth repeating: If you’re enjoying the splendor of the Icelandic wilderness, admire the moss from a distance. Touching or treading on the moss can damage it permanently, potentially ruining one of the beautiful features of the Icelandic landscape. Hiking in Iceland is challenging and fun – but everyone who does it should leave the land exactly as it was before they got there. That means looking but not touching Iceland’s majestic moss.
Matador Network's Blog
- Matador Network's profile
- 6 followers
