Matador Network's Blog, page 492
April 1, 2022
12 Top-Rated Airbnbs in Tucson for a Charming Southwest Adventure
Dive into the soul of the Sonoran Desert and the mixture of rich cultures in Tucson, Arizona. Tucson is surrounded by many diverse natural wonders, is the home of the University of Arizona, and a city with historical ties to Mexican, Native American, and Spanish heritage. Whether you are checking out the city’s top eateries, history, or just going to unplug, Tucson has it all. These are the most gorgeous and top-rated Airbnb Tucson properties for your desert getaway.
We hope you love the Airbnb Tucson stays 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. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.
Private historic home in the heart of Armory Park
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This historic home is the perfect private romantic getaway. The pad features a stunning, all-white kitchen with stainless steel appliances. The living room is spacious, with a monochrome bistro table perfect for coffee. The house is located in the heart of Armory Park and within walking distance of downtown Tucson.
Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $199 per night
Newly renovated condo 15 minutes from downtown
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Check out the blend of Southwest charm with modern touches at this newly renovated condo. Step inside this quaint but top-rated Tucson Airbnb with a spacious living room equipped with a ceiling fan and on-trend hardwood flooring, and a brand new 50” 4K Fire TV. The open floor plan layout goes into the fully equipped kitchen and dining areas. There is access to the community pool if you want to spend a day by the pool and soak up some sun. The condo is just 15 minutes away from all shopping, dining, and other entertainment.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $102 per night
Country Southwestern retreat
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
If you love being secluded in nature, then this Airbnb Tucson property is perfect for you. This open floor plan guesthouse has ceilings and a southwestern theme to the house. The kitchen features a breakfast nook and can be used for extra counter space. The home also features a private porch and large communal patios with outdoor dining and a fire pit.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $89 per night
The Barn Airbnb in Tucson
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Check out this top-rated Airbnb in Tucson, The Barn guesthouse. This spot is the ideal place to stay for singles or couples. This barn guesthouse is a renovated barn from the 1920s and part of the “Old Dowd” homestead. This peaceful country retreat has a spacious living room with smart appliances and a stunning oak wood dining set leading to the open kitchen equipped with all devices. The barn also has a veranda and a mesquite grove garden area to sit and relax.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $88 per night
The Hummingbird
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This top-rated Airbnb in Tucson is affectionately called The Hummingbird, a relaxing property located in Central Tucson. The Hummingbird is a full-sized studio with a full bath and kitchenette with kitchen essentials included. The studio is located 10 minutes from the University of Arizona and just minutes away from Botanical Gardens, St. Phillip’s Plaza, Palomino Plaza, and more shopping and restaurants.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $71 per night
The Bougainvillea
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Here is another top-rated Airbnb Tucson property called The Bougainvillea. The Bougainvillea is a cozy villa located 200 feet back from Presidio Road and can be accessed from a private gated entrance. The property is a tranquil space with its open floor plan layout, a bed, a small kitchen, and a private bathroom area. There is also a stunning view of the Catalinas to the north and a small porch where guests can sit out and view the scenery of the mountains.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $71 per night
Spacious and centrally located Catalina Foothills getaway
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Situated in the heart of the Foothills is this spacious home base. This home has its private entrance and features a large central living area with five smart TVs and other smart appliances. Along with the vast living room is the open and big, fully equipped kitchen area with all the necessary utensils needed for cooking. There is a pool and spa in the backyard that both can be headed, and there is plenty of space for the kids to run around and enjoy, and the home offers all the privacy you need.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $263 per night
Charismatic Airbnb Tucson casita with large garden-like courtyard
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Immerse yourself in this charming casita located in the Catalina Foothills. This stunning garden-like home is the perfect vacation spot in Arizona. The home features a bright and airy living room and kitchenette. A private entrance leads to a large courtyard with outdoor seating, a dining table, a fire pit, and a fountain. The home is near hiking trails, restaurants, and La Encantada.
Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $82 per night
Newly built chic home near the Arizona Inn
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Sit back and relax at this newly built elegant home near the Arizona Inn. This Airbnb Tucson residential home has a sleek design throughout the house. It features a spacious and neat living room area and an entire kitchen area and dining area where you can eat by floor to ceiling glass overlooking a walled garden and flowering plants. The outdoor patio space is shaded, where you can sit out and enjoy the Arizona weather.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $216 per night
Fun and modern home near the University of Arizona
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
If you’re looking for some fun in the sun, this stylish home is the perfect home base for group vacations. This fun and spacious home has four bedrooms and two baths with an open and bright living room and kitchen area. The backyard has a gated swimming pool, a jacuzzi, and a fire pit lounge area. The home is minutes away from UA and downtown.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $193 per night
Private desert oasis with covered patio and pool
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This private 1,500 square foot home is the ideal home base for families and large groups. The home has a full kitchen, spacious living room, and a backyard with everything you need for a summertime vacation. The backyard has a massive pool with a jacuzzi, a covered patio with outdoor furniture, and it’s even fenced in for your kids and your pets to run around and have a great time. The home is located right off the freeway, near Tucson’s main activities and entertainment.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $250 per night
Tranquil Quail’s Nest home
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Looking for a place to get away from your busy life? This peaceful guesthouse nest is serene and spacious with a fully equipped kitchen, a large dining area for eating, and a comfortable, cozy living room with large smart tv with all streaming services. The home has a pool, an outdoor patio with a lounge area, and a gorgeous view of the mountains and the flowers. 
Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $103 per night
Hostels in former jails
We hope you love the spaces 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. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.
“Where In The World Are You Sleeping Tonight?” This very query, part of an artistic collage, greets travelers checking into the Hostelling International Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco. It’s more than just a rhetorical question. It’s a hint of things to come, foreshadowing that these accommodations are anything but ordinary.
The HI Fisherman’s Wharf is situated on the grounds of Fort Mason, a Civil War-era coastal defense site. It’s part of a prime piece of real estate that has retained military ties to the present day, though the National Parks Service assumed stewardship of most of the land and buildings in the 1970s. The hostel is set up in a repurposed building — it used to be a World War II-era Port of Embarkation station dispensary. It’s curious to consider that a backpackers’ hangout once served soldiers in need of checkups and prescriptions but I know from my own visit that the transformation was a very successful one. And HI Fisherman’s Wharf is one of several remarkable historical properties converted into hostels.
Photo: Hostelling International USA Fort Mason
Photo: Hostelling International USA Fort Mason
Hostelling International’s status as a not-for-profit organization dedicated to sustainability, multiculturalism, and community makes it especially well suited to repurposing older buildings. As Danny Case, HI USA Vice President of Hostel Operations says: “We have adopted a policy of prioritizing adaptive reuse of buildings because of the rich, local history of each building, and the reduced environmental impact associated with preserving them.”
A Cape Cod hostel that is like no other
Photo: Hostelling International USA Hyannis Cape Cod
Reinventing historic buildings as modern hostels is a creative solution that pays dividends for both locals and visitors. Take, for instance, the case of HI Hyannis, in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. This pretty harbor-side building is a 1910 era Sears ‘kit house’. Once upon a time, you could order every item you needed to build your own home from the Sears catalog! From 1908 to 1940, an estimated 70,000 kit houses were sold in more than 370 sizes and architectural styles. Before it was a hostel, HI Hyannis was a private home. The owner, Ruth Rusher, was a beloved tour guide, civic activist, and passionate ambassador for Cape Cod tourism. Elizabeth Wurfbain, Executive Director of the Hyannis Main Street Business Improvement District, remembers its transformation into a hostel, saying: “I was at their ribbon cutting and it is a beautiful old Sears ‘kit’ building, right across from the harbor. It is an inexpensive, authentic, and very local oriented experience. Like you are staying with a family.”
Photo: Hostelling International USA Hyannis Cape Cod
The National Trust for Historic Preservation highlights a number of practical reasons to repurpose buildings like HI Hyannis. They point to factors such as preserving the solid construction techniques used in bygone days, as well as the ability of older buildings to attract people with their warmth, coziness, and unusual histories. The value of preservation is something well understood by the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum, located just a short walk from the hostel. “Our First Lady, Jacqueline Kennedy was instrumental in saving and preserving many key buildings and locations in our nation,” says Wendy Northcross, museum director. “Mrs. Kennedy recognized the value of saving the history of a place and the learning that comes from experiencing something ‘in situ.’ ” I can’t help but think that Mrs. Kennedy would approve of the heritage safeguarded in Hyannis’ exceptional hostel.
Another example of repurposed buildings: The Ottawa jail hostel
Photo: Hostelling International Ottawa
In some cases, a rich local history is much more than a quaint sense of nostalgia. Take, for instance, the story of HI Ottawa (which will transfer to private hostel ownership later in 2022). Located in the heart of Canada’s capital city, it has been at the center of political intrigue since the mid-1800s. The building is a former jail and it was here that Patrick Whelan was executed in 1869. Convicted of the assassination of Irish-Canadian politician Thomas D’Arcy McGee, Whelan held fast to his innocence throughout his incarceration. Today, his restless spirit is said to haunt the hostel, a story I heard during a Haunted Walks tour. It’s a thrilling tale, but also a reminder of how much remarkable folklore rests in the walls of older properties.
Photo: Hostelling International Ottawa
Converting this former jail into a hostel gives these old stories new life. James Powell, director of communications for The Historical Society of Ottawa, says: “Places like the old Ottawa jail provide a bridge between the past and the present. They remind us of where we came from and who we were […] That a building with such a bleak heritage was transformed into a hostel where young travelers can stay while exploring both new and old Ottawa is a symbol of a more positive future.”
Activist and urban planner Jane Jacobs said in The Death and Life of Great American Cities: “Old ideas can sometimes use new buildings. New ideas must use old buildings.” The HI Fisherman’s Wharf, HI Hyannis, and HI Ottawa are but three examples of the dozens of North American hostels which are breathing new life and purpose into older, unused, and under-appreciated buildings. Together, they prove that history and hostels make for an irresistible combination — for travelers and locals alike.
The Ultimate Colorado Stargazing Road Trip To Remote Dark Sky Sanctuary Towns
Colorado IS AMONG the top destinations in the country to experience the great outdoors. Thing is, most of the common activities — camping aside — typically take place during the day, and center around the state’s mountains or desert canyons. One of the best things to do here, though, is to grab a blanket, park somewhere remote, and gaze up at the sky.
A collection of small towns in southern and western Colorado have banded together to make this experience more epic than ever, creating an astronomical road trip called “Colorado Stargazing: Experience the Night.”
Fourteen areas across the state — five colorado towns and nine remote areas — have earned Dark Sky Sanctuary status from the International Dark Sky Association. This road trip takes you to the best places to stargaze in Colorado, beginning in the western Colorado town of Norwood and ending further east in Westcliffe. How long you spend en route is up to you — but we recommend taking it nice and slow. Few road trips are so easy to access while taking you so far away from big-city life.
“There’s not a whole lot of civilization here,” John Metzger, President of the Norwood Chamber of Commerce, tells me. “And the skies are about as dark as anywhere on earth, because of the altitude combined with the dryness. There’s nothing in the way — a lot of clear skies.”
Photo: Norwood Colorado/Facebook
On Wright’s Mesa, along the western end of the San Juan Mountains, three small towns have banded together to form a Dark Sky mega-spot. Norwood became a Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2019 and is the primary hub in the area, home to some 800 residents. Along with its IDA designation, the town has developed hiking and mountain biking trails to attract outdoor enthusiasts looking for a more affordable place to visit than nearby Telluride. But it’s the IDA certification that has bonded this town with other remote locations across Colorado — although you could combine two interests and look up during a nighttime hike.
People come here who “have never even seen the Milky Way,” Metzger says. “And their reaction is always, ‘Wow.’ It just sort of complements everything you do around here.”
Just past Highway 145’s merger with Highway 141, the town of Naturita and neighboring Nucla received their IDA designation this year. The high alpine environment of the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo Mountains along with the San Luis Valley that separates them, and you have the recipe for an unforgettable Colorado stargazing road trip. Here’s how to make it happen, from Norwood to Westcliffe
Norwood, Naturia, and NuclaFollowing the above map, our Colorado stargazing road trip kicks off in Norwood, about 45 miles from Telluride.
“There’s so much vastness and expanse of territory, and above it all is this unbelievable sky,” Metzger says. “It sort of turns into something bigger, into a sort of Colorado Dark Sky corridor.”
The Unaweep-Tabeguache Byway, Highway 141, connects Norwood to Gateway and eventually Grand Junction, a beautiful stretch of Slickrock canyon reminiscent of Moab and its surrounding national parks. The stars are viewable anywhere en route.
The Thunder Trails have designated dispersed campsites that make for a great place to stargaze, with the bonus of taking a morning hike or bike ride on the trails. Lone Cone Peak is visible in the distance, with Miramonte Reservoir offering camping closer to the peak. Or opt for an artsy, Burning Man-esque vibe at the recently refurbished glamping resort, Camp V.
Gunnison and Creede
Photo: DomVisuals/Shutterstock
Gunnison is the biggest town on this route, the hub of the Gunnison Valley and the gateway to the ski town of Crested Butte. Hartman Rocks Recreation Area is the best place to stargaze near Gunnison. This desert scape features numerous trails at which to get away from any present crowds, but you can also just pop the hatch on your vehicle and gaze at the stars from the parking lot. Gunnison stargazers also head to Taylor Canyon and Blue Mesa Reservoir. If visiting on a Friday or Saturday night in summer, “Carpe Noctem” (seize the night) at the Gunnison Valley Observatory’s public viewing hours. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, known for its steep and narrow Precambrian rock canyon carved by the Gunnison River, is a recent addition to the certified parks list, and certainly worth a stop and an overnight camp as well.
Creede is just over two hours south of Gunnison via CO 149. Knock back a brew at the town’s iconic Tommyknocker Tavern before heading up to camp and observe the stars from the Marshall Park Campground. Other popular stargazing spots include Love Lake and Pool Table Road.
Lake City
Taking a Colorado stargazing road trip? Check out Matador’s guide to the best places to stay across the state:
10 Airbnb Estes Park rentals near Rocky Mountain National Park The best Airbnbs in Denver for beer, 420, and mountain culture Vail Airbnbs that make you feel like you’re in the heart of Bavaria Aspen Airbnbs to chill like a celebrity Stay near Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak at these Colorado Springs Airbnbs
Photo: Xiu Yu Photography/Shutterstock
“Since 96 percent of our county is public lands, there are a lot of areas to go for high-quality stargazing,” says Philip Virden, owner of the Mountaineer Movie Theatre in Lake City and the head of the effort to bring Dark Sky Sanctuary status to the town.
Virden recommends the Windy Point overlook, seven miles south of Lake City, for the best viewing on most nights. Virden also notes that ss the town continues to gain traction as a stargazing destination, it plans to establish an official observatory site near Slumgullion Pass, which runs a tight course through the jagged San Juan peaks between Lake City and Creede, in the next year or two.
One thing Lake City has going for it is ample spots to camp. Public campgrounds range from well-heeled (by camping standards) private areas including Henson Creek and Highlander to dispersed wilderness campsites in the mountains surrounding town. In between are public campgrounds at Williams Creek, Mill Creek, and Deer Lakes, among others.
La Veta, Cuchara, and Great Sand Dunes National ParkPhoto: Sean Xu/Shutterstock
The Southern Colorado Astronomical Park, one mile outside of La Veta, is Colorado’s premiere place to learn about astronomical evolution and the practice of observing it. From here, you can watch the stars through telescopes from two domed observatories. You can also look at an ancient stone calendar and learn how the area’s original inhabitants learned to follow everything from time to the seasons based on the sun and stars.
Further afield in the Spanish Peaks Wilderness is Cuchara, where you can observe the stars from your campsite at either the Bear Lake or Blue Lake campgrounds. Stick around for an extra night and gaze from Cuchara Mountain Park. Or head to Great Sand Dunes National Park to embark on an evening hike up the dunes to watch the stars after the sun sets over the San Luis Valley to the west.
Crestone, Westcliffe, and Silvercliffe
Photo: Justin Mair/Shutterstock
The Colorado Dark Sky Sanctuary road trip tour concludes with an arbiter of the divine. Crestone, a tiny hamlet north of Great Sand Dunes National Park, occupies a few football fields worth of space at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The area is a popular pilgrimage for spiritualists, yogis, and the occasional UFO theorist, largely because of a route of spiritual sites known as the Camino Baca Grande. Before the sun goes down, you can visit a Tibetan prayer site called a Stupa, several Buddhist monasteries, Hindu ashrams, Catholic temples, and various other religious relics honoring nearly every major theological perspective prevalent in the world today.
It’s after dark, though, when this town of 86 permanent residents really lights up. From the Baca National Wildlife Refuge, gaze upward for uninterrupted views of the constellations lighting up the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness. The local’s hack is to book a room at Joyful Journey Hot Springs and then settle into a tub to watch the stars as you soak.
On the other side of the Sangre de Cristos, conclude your Colorado stargazing road trip at the state’s first Dark Sky Sanctuary, Westcliffe & Silver Cliff. The Smoky Jack Observatory is named for Suzanne B. Jack, who founded the group Dark Skys of the Wet Mountain Valley to lead the area’s IDA certification effort and found the observatory.
“Visitors can pretty much go anywhere in the county to enjoy the best stargazing,” says Custer County Tourism Board Chairperson Deb Adams. “Getting away from town and driving on any dirt road in any direction will have dark skies.” Adams particularly recommends Grape Creek Campground. Camping is free on the land surrounding Deweese Reservoir, or head into the Sangres to gaze upwards from the Alvarado Campground.
This Travel-Approved COVID Test Is Still One of the Most Helpful Things To Pack Before Going Abroad
There is now a long list of countries that people from the United States can travel to without taking a COVID test before. That includes neighbors Mexico and Canada. The only catch is that people still need to show proof of a negative test to get back into the US.
As of now, eMed’s BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card Home Test is still the only at-home test approved for returning international flights. It’s accepted by US and international airlines and cruise lines, with partnerships with United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines.
How the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card Home Test worksYou can order a six pack for $150.00, which is eligible for insurance reimbursement, on the eMed website and it’ll be shipped to your home or a pick-up location (just note that someone needs to be available to sign). If you buy them from the store, it needs to have a white and red sleeve — only the BinaxNOW Home Test works for the verified telehealth test.
To use the tests, you’ll need to create a digital health pass account and download the app. The profile links to your test after a questionnaire, and each person who plans to use a test has to be registered separately.
A day before you’re flight back to the US, go to eMed.com to start your virtually guided test on your phone or computer. The virtual meetings are available 24/7, though plan ahead with some leeway if you want to be on the safe side. Early reviewers of the service complained of hours-long wait times, but those issues seem to have cleared up. Your results are ready in an eMed Lab Report 15 minutes later (a spare test is good backup in case of any inconclusive results).
Just one note of caution: Whatever you do, do not remove or tamper with the outer cover before starting the session. Any opening of that outer cover beforehand — which helpfully says “Do not open until instructed to do so” — means you can’t do a verified test. One friend joined a session only to be told that she couldn’t get a verified test because the outer box was already opened. She was still able to test to see if she had COVID, however the results were not certified for travel.
Why you should travel with a BinaxNOW COVID testEven if the US does soon drop testing requirements for vaccinated travelers as requested by the wider travel industry, people who have immunocompromised family and friends back home can feel more at ease with a negative test in their hand.
Not to mention the tests are convenient when you need them to travel to another country that requires proof of a negative result. COVID-19 testing in the United States is once again a major hassle. Public testing sites are being taking down across the country, and results can take three days to receive. The testing sites that remain open and able to provide a rapid test can be costly. I paid $250 for a travel-ready rapid test at the XpresCheck in Denver International Airport
To put it simply, a verified home test provides piece of mind when it feels like a lot of things are up in the air and you, too, would like to be able to get up in the air to get to your destination. At the very least, it means you don’t have to think twice about trying to decipher appointments and locations and qualifications in a country with a language you may or may not be conversational in.
On multiple trips abroad, my results at hotels and pop-up clinics have been slow to come as I waited to make sure I could get the right information in by the right time. Thankfully I’ve made all my appointments, but there have been close calls. Keeping a test as a backup avoids that anxiety even if the BinaxNOW test isn’t your primary option.
That alone makes ordering a six pack worth it — even if you do have to figure out how to do an insurance reimbursement for $150.
March 31, 2022
The Northern Lights Can Be Seen in the Continental US This Week. Here’s What To Expect.
The Northern Lights are usually one of those things that you have to travel far north to see. Thanks to an unusual geomagnetic storm, however, people as far south as Colorado might catch a glimpse of the aurora from March 31 into April 1 and possibly April 2, as well (and no, this isn’t an April Fool’s joke).
The probability of seeing the aurora borealis is ranked on the Kp Index from zero to nine by the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute, with zero being no chance and nine being a high chance. The Kp Index hit a seven on the morning of March 31 and people in Colorado saw the lights.
The Space Weather Prediction Center has a different scale that goes from one to five. The lights hit a one the last go around, though could get as high as a three into Saturday morning, according to the Washington Post.
Below are the states where you have the highest probability of seeing the Northern Lights.
States where you can see the Northern Lights on March 31 and April 1 and 2MaineMichiganMinnesotaMontanaNorth DakotaSouth DakotaWashingtonWisconsinStates where you might see the Northern Lights on March 31 and April 1 and 2IdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaNebraskaOhioOregonPennsylvaniaWyomingThese states are just estimates and depend on the final strength.
The colors come from protons and electrons that leave the sun and hit the Earth’s magnetic field. They get the gasses naturally found in the atmosphere going — oxygen makes green and red, while nitrogen makes blue and purple.
Unfortunately for anyone hoping for a guarantee, unpredictable is the key word when it comes to the Northern Lights. The Northern Light Aurora Forecast can help you gauge the timing, and being in a spot with low light pollution always helps.
Keep your eyes peeled for more opportunities over the next couple of years. The peak of our sun’s active solar cycle period will hit about 2025.
For a glimpse of what’s to come, here’s what people spotted on the morning of March 31.
I literally can’t believe this happened tonight. 8 meteorology students, 3 mechanical engineering students, 2 journalists, and 1 meteorologist all watching the northern lights together. This went way better than imagined. So, so happy. #sdwx #Aurora @sdsmt #NorthernLights pic.twitter.com/2SKkEhyqKu
— Lexy Elizalde (@JadeoradeWx) March 31, 2022
Short time lapse of last nights March 30th #Aurora #Saskatchewan #Canada near Laporte Sk pic.twitter.com/lTs5GcwH4N
— Jenny Hagan LostInSk (@LostInSk) March 31, 2022
Aurora over devil's tower in WY from last night! Look at the reds!! It was incredible! #aurora #NorthernLights#wyoming #spaceweather@TamithaSkov @spacewxwatch @SPACEdotcom pic.twitter.com/E0UAdo1BEe
— MaryBeth Kiczenski (@MKiczenski) March 31, 2022
More like thisOutdoorThe Best Places To See the Northern Lights in the Continental United States
The Highest Rated Food Truck in Every State
A couple of decades ago, food trucks were seen as a surefire way to end up with food poisoning. Now, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Food trucks have exploded in popularity for their creativity and delicious eats in all 50 states. There are an estimated 35,000 active food trucks in the United States. With so many choices, it might be difficult to settle on what to try — especially if you have limited time when visiting a state. ZenBusiness, a company that helps support other businesses, did some data analysis to find the best food truck in every state, as well as the top 10 food trucks in the US.
The number one food truck in the US is Los California Tacos in Pasadena, California. The food truck smashes expectations, earning a killer 4.5-star average rating over 985 reviews. The truck’s been on the street since 1979, making it a true food truck pioneer, and serves delicious $2 Mexico-City-style tacos. California food trucks seem to be some of the best, earning three spots in the top 10, but Texas food trucks outpace them with four trucks in the top batch.
The top 10 food trucks in the United StatesLos California Tacos in Pasadena, CaliforniaTacos Tierra Caliente in Houston, TexasLA Burger in Irving, TexasChick N’ Bros in Houston, TexasThe Burnt Truck in Irvine, CaliforniaBurger Seoul in Tacoma, WashingtonFrezko Taco Spot in Frisco TexasPigWich in Kansas City, MissouriOctopus Falafel Truck in Philadelphia, PennsylvaniaPhatties in Escondido, CaliforniaTo find and rank these food trucks, the company used a list of US cities with a population of over 100,000. Then, for each city, it used Yelp to locate “food trucks” and sorted them by “recommended.” The top food truck with at least 20 reviews and a star rating equal to or higher than 4.5 in each city is listed as the highest-ranked result. To find the top 10 Food Trucks in the US, the study used the winners from the top trucks by city and used the ones that had the most reviews.
Where will you head first to find some delicious food on wheels?
7 Delicious and Traditional Ramadan Dishes That You’ll Find Around the World
April 1 marks the beginning of the Islamic holy month, Ramadan, where Muslims around the world fast from sunrise until sunset for 30 days. For Muslim people, this period is believed to be the time that Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, received that divine revelations that led to the Quran. It’s a time of deep spiritual reset, self reflection and relationship building. Ramadan dishes, which are prepared once its dark outside, tend to be hearty, filling, and well seasoned.
For a month that’s rooted in abstaining from eating for upwards of 15 hours per day, it’s also a month that, perhaps surprisingly, revolves around food: That’s because after the sun goes down, families loosen their belts, and dig into meals that give them the strength to continue with the fast once the sun comes up. The post-daylight meal that takes place during Ramadan is known as iftar.
I grew up in a family where every meal was eaten together around the dinner table. But in my early teens, in between hockey practice and art classes, communal eating took a back seat. Suddenly, eating on-the-go became a regular practice, with Tupperware containers and wrappers littering the passenger side of the car. As the ritual of communal eating faded, so too did my attention to how I was eating.
But every year, Ramadan gives me room for pause. Each sunrise and sunset, as I begin fast and break fast, I’m surrounded by those I love. Through shared meals and sleepy smiles, I’m reminded that beautiful things happen when people gather.
Ramadan is observed by families in every country on Earth, but you’ll of course find that traditions surrounding this holy time are prevalent in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, Iran, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Syria, Libya, Algeria, Morocco, Mauritania. And each of these countries has its favorite foods to prepare when families are finally allowed to break their fast. But there are in fact several dishes that are common throughout Ramadan no matter where you’re from. Here are seven dishes that you can find around the Ramadan table.
Hibiscus Tea
Photo: Goskova Tatiana/Shutterstock
Referred to by many names, including karkade in places like Jordan and Egpyt, hibiscus tea is a nutrient dense beverage that can be served hot or chilled. The tea is packed with antioxidants and known to boost immunity and improve heart health. Many Muslim families only prepare and drink hibiscus tea during Ramadan, perhaps because some folks believe its flavor mimics that of a mule wine.
Bean pieBean pies are more than a Ramadan staple – they are an integral part of Muslim history, particulary in the US. Developed by the Nation of Islam in the 1930’s, the pies are made from cooked and blended navy beans. The texture is similar to custard and the flavor is sweet. Bean pies are perhaps the only Ramadan foods that are original to America. Writer Narjis Nichole Abdul-Majid argues that, “If the African American Muslim experience had a symbolic icon, the bean pie would be it.”
Sambusa
Photo: roman tohtohunov/Shutterstock
Especially popular in Somali cuisine, the sambusa is similar to an Indian samosa: this triangle pastry baked or deep fried, and filled with meat, lentils, vegetables or fish and dipped into chutney.
Dates
Photo: dotshock/Shutterstock
Muslims break their fasts with dates, and often eat them in odd numbers, as was the tendency of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. Although I never liked dates when I was younger, they’ve become an integral part of my diet, especially during Ramadan. Dates are high in sugar, potassium, magnesium and are an excellent source of fiber. After a long day of fasting, dates are the perfect starter to help alleviate exhaustion, headaches, and digestion. During Ramadan, dates are often stuffed with almond butter, or cucumbers.
Haleem
Photo: ahmer shahid/Shutterstock
This filling stew is common throughout South Asia, and it often includes meat like chicken or mutton, lentils, and pounded wheat. Heavily spiced with a blend of cumin, turmeric, cardamom and saffron, it’s rich in calories and contains ingredients that slow digestion, helping you stay fuller and energized for longer.
Tamer HindiThis beloved drink is a Ramadan staple, and can be found on Muslim tables across the globe, but it’s especially popular in Jordan and Lebanon. Pressed from the juice of a tamarind plant, it’s tart yet sweet.
Shorba
Photo: wong yu liang/Shutterstock
Lentil soup is one of my favorite comfort foods. It’s warm, filling, and always perfectly seasoned with garlic, cumin, and coriander. It’s made with a blend of vegetables, spices, and oats and makes an excellent pre-fast meal. The anti-inflammatory spices in shorba are thought to aid with digestion. The bloggers behind Our Tunisian Table write that this, “satisfying soup is an absolute staple on every Tunisian dinner table for all 30 nights of Ramadan.”
The Most Electric-Vehicle-Friendly Road Trip Is Along One of the World’s Most Beautiful Coastlines
With gas prices on the rise, electric vehicle owners must feel like the lucky ones. Yet while there are no worries about being at the mercy of oil companies, one of the primary concerns of potential EV consumers is that it can be difficult to find charging stations on long-haul trips. But more and more charging stations popping up — including along some classic road trip routes around the world.
Compare the Market, a company that compares quotes on insurance and products, conducted a study to find the most popular electric-vehicle-friendly road trips.
Photo: Compare The Market
The third most popular route is the Transfagarasan road trip in Romania, with 145,222 Instagram posts. With less than one full charge, road-trippers can stop at popular spots like the Balea Waterfall and Poenari Citadel and take Instagrammable shots of the majestic mountains along the way.
In second place is California’s Big Sur. This California adventure is a coastal trip filled with dramatic waterfalls, beaches, cliffs, and dunes perfect for everyone to enjoy. The most notable spots include San Simeon and Carmel Highlands — it’s no wonder why there are over 1.4 million documented Instagram posts. Best of all, no need to make a million stops to enjoy the ride. The whole trip only takes about a quarter of a full charge.
But the best electric-vehicle-friendly road trip is Amalfi Coast. Needing only about a tenth of a full charge for the 40-mile journey, drivers pass through Positano to enjoy cliffs topped with pastel houses and Ravello, with its fantastic cliffside gardens. Enjoy the coastal Italian cuisine and join the people who’ve posted more than three million Instagram posts along the way.
The most popular electric-vehicle-friendly road tripsItaly’s Almafi Coast: 40 miles, 99 EV chargers available, .11 charges neededCalifornia’s Big Sur: 87 miles, 78 EV chargers available, .23 charges neededRomania’s Transfargarasan: 106 miles, 38 EV chargers available, .28 charges neededAustralia’s Great Ocean Road: 147 miles, 69 EV chargers available, .39 charges neededEngland’s Atlantic Highway: 179 miles, 298 EV chargers available, .48 charges neededNorway’s Atlantic Road: 191 miles, 84 EV chargers available, .51 charges neededGermany’s Romantic Road: 210 miles, 160 EV chargers available, .56 charges neededScotland’s NC500: 440 miles, 97 EV chargers available, 1.18 charges neededSouth Africa’s Route 62: 1271 miles, 27 EV chargers available, 3.4 charges neededUnited States’ Route 66: 2122 miles, 89 EV chargers available, 5.67 charges neededArgentina’s Ruta 40: 3,052 miles, 51 EV chargers available, 8.16 charges neededTo find these routes, Compare the Market gauged the most well-known road trips worldwide based on stories published about them, and then ranked each by using the number of Instagram posts for each route’s hashtag on Instagram. To find the EV chargers, it put each route on Google Maps to find the total distance of each road trip and the number of available EV chargers. It then used the Tesla Model 3 with 374 miles (the most sold electric vehicle of 2020) to determine how many charges would be needed to complete the trip.
So take a chance and splurge on finding an EV ride. Those long-haul trips just might be smoother than you think. But if you’d rather stick with your own car, some companies are willing to help front the cost to get to your vacation.
People Can Soon Use a Gender Neutral ‘X’ Category for Their Passport and TSA PreCheck
Starting on April 11, people with a passport from the United States will be able to choose a gender neutral X category instead of male or female. Along with the change, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is updating standards for screening and TSA PreCheck that is gender inclusive.
The change has been in the works since last summer, according to the New York Times, after the State Department ended a rule that people who transitioned had to have a doctor’s certificate to change their passport. Currently, more than 20 states have a gender-neutral option for driver’s licenses, and countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand already have gender-neutral passport options.
With the change in passport regulations comes a change in how the TSA operates its Trusted Traveler programs like TSA PreCheck. The X option will be available for PreCheck travelers starting on April 11 after a software update. New applicants will have the option when applying, while existing PreCheck members can call the TSA security office at (855) 347-8371 to have their gender changed. The TSA noted in a press release that changing a gender association has no effect on a TSA PreCheck member’s expedited screening.
The TSA announced a number of other initiatives to become more gender inclusive that will be implemented through the rest of 2022. The updates are funded through $18.6 million designated for development, testing, and deployment of algorithm updates to Advanced Imaging Technology. New screening technology allows for more accuracy and efficiency that’ll put fewer people through additional screenings and pat downs of sensitive areas.
As these new rules and technologies are put into place, the TSA is encouraging anyone with questions to visit its Transgender, Nonbinary, and Gender Nonconforming Passengers web page for updates.
Ultimate mountain bike gear list
Mountain biking is among the fastest-growing outdoor sports in the United States. Many factors have contributed to its rise. Better bike technology has brought dual-suspension, bump-absorbing bike frames into the mainstream that has literally saved the butts and guts of riders as they progress to increasingly challenging (and rocky) terrain. Increased access to backcountry trails and better maintenance of those trails has grown with the demand. And, above all else, a slew of specialized gear allows mountain bikers to take their passion with them when they hit the road. No matter your skill level or destination, the following items are essentials for a successful MTB trip.
We hope you love the eco-friendly mountain biking gear 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. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.
Eco-friendly mountain bike gear for beginnersBefore you hit any backcountry trail, download a GPS-enabled trail map app. There are many available for mountain bikers but MTB Project, a trail app developed by REI, is the most comprehensive mountain bike trail guide you can have on your phone, and it’s free to download on iOS and Android. The app features mountain bike trails around the world, searchable by specific location. Riders can check into a trail, share conditions, post photos, and offer advice for important issues like where to grab a post-ride beer. The app is the ultimate trip-planning tool for riders, especially when paired with a trail map from the local bike shop.
Mountain bike shoes
Photo: Adidas
While you could head out in a pair of athletic or skate shoes, your performance on tough terrain will be far better with mountain bike shoes that either clip to or stick to your pedals. Clip-in shoes aren’t a requirement, especially for beginners and casual riders who are more likely to hop off the bike frequently or who may need to push up parts of hills. Also, clip-in shoes make it far tougher to bail off the bike should you lose control near a cliff-edge — replacing the bike is far cheaper and easier than replacing yourself. Consider sticky mountain bike shoes when you’re first starting out. Adidas-owned Five Ten’s Freerider Pro shoe (available in men’s and women’s) is made of Primeblue Parley Recycled Ocean Plastic, placing it among the most eco-friendly mountain bike shoes on the market. Bonus because it’s available through REI with rapid shipping.
A good helmet
Photo: Giro
Concussions are not the name of the game, no matter how rocky the trail is. You need a solid helmet, and fortunately, in the MTB world, there’s no need to buy one of those dorky, striped, oblong road bike helmets. Mountain bike helmets are stylish, similar to the snowboard helmet. Giro makes the Fixture helmet, suitable for both men and women and durable enough that you won’t have to replace it unless to take a major spill (and it does its job).
Shin guard and knee pads
Photo: G-Form
Like everything in life, getting up to snuff in mountain biking involves making mistakes and learning from them. One mistake you’ll only make once is called the “snakebite.” This involves a sudden stop, fall, or anything else that results in your pedal conducting a sudden spin in reverse and slamming the spiked footrest into your shin. Not only is this going to be quite painful, but it’s also a near-guaranteed way to go home with an unwanted collection of small scars on your leg. You can avoid both the “snakebite” and other minor shin and knee scuffs by wearing the Elite Knee-Shin Guards from G-Form.
Backpack
Photo: Dakine Seeker
When looking at backpacks, consider two options: a day pack and a multi-day pack. When heading out for a day on the trail or embarking on a trip where you’ll be returning to the trailhead each day with a chance to replenish basic supplies like water, opt for a small pack with a water bladder. It doesn’t need to be one specifically for mountain biking; though the Dakine Seeker 10L is perfect and from a company with a good track record on sustainability.
For longer or overnight excursions, a larger option like the Dakine Seeker 18L is ideal. You want at least 12-15 liters of storage space for gear, food, and other essentials, and water bladder storage and access, which this pack provides. Its real advantage over a traditional backpacking pack, though, is that it doesn’t sacrifice the huggy, compact design of a biking daypack. The Seeker won’t get in your way and won’t spill out should you take a tumble.
What to keep in your backpack:
A stocked water bladderA rain jacketA first-aid kitProtein bars and snacks — we’re all about GoMacro’s Macro Bar vegan protein barsA pair of padded mountain bike glovesA pair of mountain bike (or otherwise athletic) socks such as Smartwool’s eco-friendly Bike Zero socks for women and menTo get to the trailhead
Photo: Küat Racks
Beyond your bike and the gear on your body, the most important thing you need is a way to get your bike to the trailhead. Unless you’re riding a Huffy, putting down your backseat to stuff an assembled mountain bike into the back of the vehicle is a solid way to ruin your investment, in both the bike and the car. If you drive a truck, you can load the bike into the back without inherently damaging the tires or your interior, but this doesn’t do much should you need to slam on the breaks or take a tight turn at some speed.
Put a few hundred bucks into a rack for your vehicle. The best mountain bike rack for those with a tow-hitch on their vehicle, whether for an out-of-town trip or hitting local trails, is the Küat Racks’ Transfer. It takes less than an hour to set up and mount on your vehicle, and you can easily unhitch and remove the rack for in-town travel when you’re not carrying a bike. The rack is made of steel and secures your bike at multiple points. It’s also easy to lock the bike onto the rack or vehicle, whether with the Küat’s specific lock or, in a pinch, with some general bike locks.
Plan to spend $349 for a one-bike rack and $449 for a two-bike rack. Add-on pieces to convert a one-bike rack into a double are also available, should you have the need to carry a second bike down the line.
What to keep in your vehicle:
A lock kit and hitch-pinMore spare tubesGear for inclement weather or for overnight useTo be prepared when something goes wrongGear to change or patch a tire tube
Photo: REI
No one should enter the backcountry on a bike without knowing a few basic repair necessities, starting with how to patch and/or change the tube in your tire should you get a flat. For this, you need five essential pieces of gear:
Steel tire levers — there are cheaper plastic ones, but spending a few extra dollars for steel prevents the risk of them snapping on you (and because they last, less material is needed to keep you stocked)Spare tubes, at least two, specific to your tire diameter (26, 27.5, or 29 inches), unless you ride a tubeless setupA hand pumpA patch kitCrankbrothers Multi-Tool with chain toolYouTube is full of videos that will walk you through the process of changing a tube, and you should practice a couple of times before embarking on a serious ride that has the potential to leave you stuck miles from a trailhead or road. To stock yourself quickly and easily, grab the Topeak Deluxe Accessory Kit, which mounts right onto your bike and contains levers, a hand pump, multi-tool, and a pouch to keep it all in.
Gear to fix a broken chain
Photo: REI
A snapped chain can quickly lead to panic, but it doesn’t need to if you’re prepared. After stocking the items listed above, you should already have the proper chain tool. Again, YouTube is your training reference here, and a quick practice round should get you up to speed. Here’s what else to add to your arsenal:
Masterlinks (to replace the broken link), with male link on both endsChain lube. We recommend Green Oil both because it works very well and because its PTFE-free, is biodegradable, and its bottles are made from recycled plasticTo fix a broken derailleur hanger
Photo: Dmitry Kalinovsky/Shutterstock
If you ride hard and frequently, a broken derailleur hanger is a consistent threat. Without being able to fix it, you might find yourself stuck, or in a best-case scenario, having to complete the rest of your ride in the gear you were in when it broke. While being stuck is worse, both situations are a major bummer. Keep a derailleur hanger specific to your bike on hand.
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