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19 epic road trips through Scotland

Scotland is one of THE best countries in the world to take a road trip. Here are 20 of my favourite routes, many of them easily linkable for longer trips. Note: Place names located above the central belt of Scotland have been translated into Scottish Gaelic to help with navigation.

1. Selkirk → Moffat (Scottish Borders, A708)

From Selkirk, cruise up the side of St Mary’s Loch, at the head of the Yarrow Valley in the heart of the Scottish Southern Uplands. Stop at Tibbie Shiels Inn for an excellent pub lunch. The surrounding area forms a nature reserve spanning 922 hectares, owned by the National Trust for Scotland. To work off lunch, climb up the pass and drop down to view one of Scotland’s finest waterfalls, the Grey Mare’s Tail. The Southern Uplands are a wonderland for botanics, bird watchers, and hill walkers.

2. Ayr → Turnberry (Ayrshire, A719)

As you leave the town of Ayr (Inbhir Àir, “Mouth of the River Ayr”), head south on the A719 and visit the birthplace of Robert Burns, Scotland’s most famous bard. Jump back on the coastal main road and check out the Electric Brae, or Croy Brae as it’s known locally. The hill is an optical illusion where you appear to be going uphill when actually you’re traveling down. Next, stop at Culzean (pronounced “Culain”) Castle and Country Park, where General Dwight D. Eisenhower had an apartment during the Second World War. Finish at Turnberry and enjoy a walk down the magnificent beach bordered by a championship golf course.

3. Fort William → Inverness (A82)

Follow the Caledonian Canal north from Fort William on the A82. The canal links the lochs of the Great Glen to form a maritime route from west to east, precluding the need to sail round the often stormy seas off the north coast. Stop at the Commando Memorial just north of Spean Bridge, which commemorates the men of the original British Commando Forces of World War II. Look back south and on a clear day you’ll see Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest mountain.

Continue north along the banks of Loch Lochy (Loch Lochaidh) and Loch Oich (Loch Omhaich) to lunch in Fort Augustus. As you go further north aside Loch Ness, keep an eye out for the elusive monster, Nessie. Stop at the visitor centre just after Urquhart Castle in Drumnadrochit (Druim na Drochaid) to learn about the hunt for the monster. Continue north along the loch to Inverness, where the canal finally joins the sea spilling into the Moray Firth.

4. Crail → Elie (Fife, A917)

Drive southwest along the A917 and visit the fishing villages of the East Neuk of Fife. Don’t miss the Anstruther Fish Bar down at the harbour, one of the best chippies in Scotland. Journey on to Pittenweem and St Monans, finishing up at Ship Inn in Elie, which overlooks the natural harbour.

5. Lochgilphead → Tayvallich (Argyllshire, A816/B841/B8025)

Trace the Crinan Canal north up the A816 and turn off at Cairnbaan (An Càrn Bàn). Follow the country road all the way to Crinan (An Crìonan), where the canal opens into the Atlantic. Walk around the little harbour and look northwest across the Sound of Jura (An Linne Rosach) to the Gulf of Corryvreckan (Coire Bhreacain); whirlpools stir the sea here. Return partway along the B841 and turn south down the B8025 to Tayvallich (Taigh a’ Bhealaich), Scotland’s prettiest natural harbour tucked up Loch Sween. Enjoy the locally caught seafood at the pub in the village.

6. Balloch → Inveraray (Argyllshire, A82/A83)

Cruise north up the “bonnie banks” of Loch Lomond (Loch Laomainn) and turn left at Tarbet (An Tairbeart) onto the A83. Climb up through Glen Croe (Gleann a’ Chrò) and stop at the summit of the Rest and Be Thankful. Look back down the valley to view the old road twisting its way up the pass. Drop down off the top and stop at Loch Fyne Oysters to enjoy some of the very best of Scottish seafood. Finish up at the wedding cake, Inveraray Castle, home to the Duke and Duchess of Argyll.

7. Craignure → Tobermory (Isle of Mull, A849/B8035/B8073)

Take the ferry from Oban (An t-Òban) to Craignure on the Isle of Mull. Drive north and turn left at Salen (An t-Sàilean) onto the B8035, then right onto the B8073 up the northwest coast of the island. Stop off and take the pedestrian ferry over to Ulva (Ulbha) Island for a pint of prawns at the Boathouse. Continue to Calgary Bay, where island emigrants boarded ships for the New World after being evicted from their crofts during the Highland clearances. Enjoy a bracing swim in the Atlantic off the stunning beach. Journey on to Dervaig (Dearbhaig) and finish up at Tobermory (Tobar Mhoire), with its multicoloured houses. Don’t miss a pint in the Mishnish bar on the harbour front.

8. Salen → Ardnamurchan Point (Arnamurchan Peninsula, B8007)

Follow the edge of Loch Sunart (Loch Shuaineart) west along one of the most challenging roads in the country through Glenborrodale (Gleann Bhorghdail). Keep an eye out for red deer as you swing inland through the hunting estate of the same name, then stop off at the Kilchoan Hotel. Continue west to the lighthouse at Ardnamurchan Point, the most westerly point on mainland Scotland. Backtrack 3 miles and turn north to Sanna Bay. Stop at the end of the road and walk down to one of the most beautiful beaches in Scotand — skinnydip if you dare!

9. Crianlarich → Ballachulish (A82)

Follow the West Highland Way (Slighe na Gàidhealtachd an Iar) north to Tyndrum (Taigh an Droma) past the Green Welly shop. Climb up onto the moon-like landscape of the Great Moor of Rannoch, past the ski centre, before dropping down through the stunning scenery of Glen Coe (Gleann Comhan), site of the massacre of the MacDonalds by the English. Take time to stop and try to spot the many climbers and walkers on the surrounding Munros (mountains reaching over 3,000 feet).

10. Pitlochry → Aberfeldy (Perthshire, B8019/B846/A827)

Go west from Pitlochry (Baile Chloichrigh) to Loch Tummel (Loch Teimhil). Stop at Queens View for a look at the stunning view favoured by Queen Victoria. At Tummel Bridge, continue west to Loch Rannoch (Loch Raineach) and on to Rannoch Station, the most remote railway station in the UK. Return along the unmarked road on the south side of the loch, then turn right over the hill. Take a detour right to Fortingall and down to Fearnan on the banks of Loch Tay (Loch Tatha). Turn left along the loch to Kenmore at its head, then on to Aberfeldy following the banks of the River Tay, Scotland’s most famous salmon river.

11. Fort William → Mallaig (Inverness-shire, A830)

Take the A830 west from Fort William along the Road to the Isles. Stop at Glenfinnan (Gleann Fhionghain) to admire the railway viaduct made famous in a number of Harry Potter films, particularly The Chamber of Secrets. Walk down to the shores of Loch Shiel (Loch Seile) and view the monument where Bonnie Prince Charlie called for the local clansmen to assemble in 1745, proclaiming the throne of Great Britain to be denounced and rightfully returned to his family, the Stuarts. Continue on to Mallaig (Malaig), where the road finishes at the ferry to the Isle of Skye (Eilean a’ Cheò).

12. Armadale → Elgol (Isle of Skye, A851)

Take the ferry from Mallaig over the sea to Skye. Visit Grumpy George’s shop on the right as you come off the ferry and say hi to his parrots, then drive north up the A851 till you reach the A87. Turn left, then left again after two miles onto the B8083. Follow this challenging road all the way to the end at Elgol (Ealaghol). Park and take in the views south to the islands of Eigg (Eige), Rhum (Rùm), and Canna (Canaigh). Grab the picnic and catch the boat across the bay, then walk up to Loch Coruisk (Coire Uisg) into the natural amphitheatre of the Black Cuillin and marvel at the scale of the mountains.

13. Kelso → Duns (Scottish Borders)

Follow the Jim Clark Rally, the only closed-road motorsport event on mainland UK, over the Scottish bank holiday weekend in May. Action takes place across the “Merse,” the rich rolling farmland in the Tweed Valley. Don’t miss fish and chips at the iconic Duns chippie.

14. Invergarry → Plockton (A87)

Leave Invergarry (Inbhir Garadh) west along the north side of Loch Garry (Loch Garraidh). As you climb up from the loch, stop at the viewpoint and drink in the view west up the glen. Turn left past Loch Cluanie through Glen Shiel (Gleann Seile), where the Five Sisters ridge (three of which are Munros) dominates the view to your right. Drop down to Shiel Bridge, and at the head of Loch Duich (Loch Dubhthaich) is the iconic Eilean Donan castle built on a small island. After Kirkton, turn right off the A87 onto an unclassified road over to Plockton, which fringes a natural harbour just inside Loch Carron (Loch Carrann). Try either the Plockton Hotel or the Plockton Inn for excellent seafood.

15. Lochcarron → Sheildaig (A896/Unclassified)

From Lochcarron, drive west to Kishorn (Loch Ciseòrn), then turn left onto the unclassified road toward Applecross (Chomraich, or “Sanctuary”), up over the Bealach na Bà (“Pass of the Cattle”). This is THE road to experience in Scotland — it goes from sea level to over 2,000 feet in just five miles. The pass is so called as this was the drovers’ route with their cattle on the way to market in Glasgow. Before you drop down the other side round the numerous hairpins, stop to take in the view across the sea to Skye.

At Applecross, stop at the inn for fantastic seafood and the craic — Judith Fish, the owner, is a legend. Turn north up the coast of the peninsula, and after a few miles look out for a small bothy (hut) at the north end of a beautiful beach. This was the home of the TV broadcaster and marine biologist Monty Halls and Reuben his dog in the summer of 2008 for the series Great Hebridean Escape. Take a walk down for a look around, but be careful not to stray onto the military installation next door. Continue north to Shieldaig (Sìldeag), where you rejoin the A896.

16. Aviemore → Findhorn (Inverness-shire, A95/A941)

Leave Aviemore (An Aghaidh Mhòr) north on the “old road” up Strathspey Valley. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of the leading malt whisky distilleries along the trail — my favourite is Dalwhinnie. Turn left to Elgin (Eilginn), then left again onto the A96.

Just before Forres (Farrais), turn right to Kinloss (Cinn Lois) and onto Findhorn (Inbhir Èireann), where in 1962 “hippies” set up camp. Believing they were in contact with extraterrestrials through telepathy, they prepared a landing strip for flying saucers at nearby Cluny Hill. Today, it has become a charitable trust, the Findhorn Foundation, and includes an award-winning ecovillage community. Finally, take the opportunity to visit the beach, one of the most impressive on the east coast.

17. Ullapool → Achiltibuie (A835/Unclassified)

Go north from Ullapool (Ulapul), then left onto an unclassified road. Drive up the north side of Loch Lurgainn, with the mountains of Cul Beag and Stac Pollaidh on your right. Turn right, south down to Achiltibuie (Achd Ille Bhuidhe, or “Field of the Yellow-Haired Boy”) and visit the Summer Isles Hotel, which overlooks the islands of the same name, a summer haunt of the Royal family on the Royal Yacht Britannia. The yacht is now moored in Leith, Edinburgh — definitely worth a visit.

18. Durness → John O’Groats (A838/A836)

Drive the route along the roof of mainland Scotland. From Durness (Diùranais), go east on the A838, past Tongue (Tunga); Bettyhill (Am Blàran Odhar), which has a great pub; and then onto Thurso (Inbhir Theòrsa). Take a detour left to Dunnet Head (Ceann Dùnaid), the northernmost point on mainland UK. On a clear day you can see the Orkney Islands to the north. Visit the Castle of Mey, the former holiday home of the Queen Mother, before finishing up at John O’Groats (Taigh Iain Ghròt).

19. Banchory → Blairgowrie (Aberdeenshire, A93)

Start at Banchory (Beannchar) and drive west up upper Deeside to Ballater (Bealadair), then onto Crathie and past Balmoral, the Scottish holiday home of the British Royal family, which they visit every summer. Go on to Braemar, then south past the ski slopes and over the Spittal of Glenshee before dropping down into Perthshire and finishing at Blairgowrie, the “raspberry capital” of Scotland.

Travelers are sharing where people visiting America for the first time should go

Americans tend to get excited about the opportunity to explore what the rest of the world has to offer. The truth is there’s also so much to do in their own backyard. It’s easy to forget how massive it is — there’s even a map that shows how 30 European countries all fit in the US’ landmass. So, for a foreigner interested in visiting the US, it might be challenging to choose the best places to travel in the US. These users have the answers.

If you like the city

Photo: IM_photo/Shutterstock

1. “If you like nightlife and gambling, Las Vegas. Oddly, Vegas is also big on shopping last time I went. They have a weird combo of gambling, shopping, family entertainment, and now sports there. And, of course, the original reason for Vegas existing: business conferences.” u/midnightFreddie

2.” Depending on the season & weather, Detroit is awesome. Amazing food, museums (including, but not limited to the DIA, Motown Museum, and Museum of African American History), festivals, outdoor skating rink, three professional sports teams, craft fairs, the river walk. . . oh! and dozens of different music venues of varying sizes and formality.

People shit on the city, but those are people who don’t go to the city.” – u/thisbuttonsucks

3.” I would fly to the east coast and do a road trip. You can see the most big cities and diverse landscapes IMO. You can drive from Boston to NYC to Philly to DC in like a week. Spend some time in southern states past DC if you have time.” – u/dancethrusunday

4. “Surprised no one has mentioned Chicago yet. Tons to do just like NYC and LA, but different culture. Food is amazing, many great steakhouses, deep-dish (or really any type) pizza, Italian beef, etc. Wonderful lakefront Seasonal dependent like Boston. Also, close enough to either take a train or drive to Milwaukee, which is an underrated city and gives a better insight into the Midwest culture. Cheese and beer seem to be central to Milwaukee.” — u/SST0617

5. “In DC you don’t even need much money beyond a decent hotel. Just touring the national mall, its monuments and the museums is enough to fill up days and almost everything is free. NYC is a bit trickier to plan and more expensive but once you find decent accommodations the possibilities are almost endless. Sure you are likely to encounter some shitty things like any big city but most places a tourist would go are pretty nice and safe.” — u/LennyFackler

If you like nature

Photo: haveseen/Shutterstock

6.” Get out of the California cities and see the land. Start with the coast or Yosemite/Muir Woods/Joshua Tree yet don’t stop there. Explore. The local mountain peak that overlooks my neighborhood is 2 1/2 times the altitude of Ben Nevis. But it’s the 39th tallest peak in California. From the state’s 9th tallest range. So many visitors to this state spend a week trapped in Los Angeles traffic while they miss out on everything from glacial valleys to sand dunes” – u/doublestitch

7. “I live in Missouri, which isn’t much of an international destination. However, if you wanted to see nature in a super relaxing setting, where you can see some wildlife, talk to some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet, and take some beautiful photos, I’d 100% mention a camping/float trip in the Missouri/Arkansas Ozarks. There’s no “hustle and bustle” you find in big cities. There aren’t pushy souvenir vendors and TV famous stores or people to gawk at. No sushi or Michelin star restaurants. But you’ll find home cooking, nature, friendly people, damn good gas station chicken and pizza, river otters and deer, gorgeous, quiet sunrises, fresh spring water, and air that doesn’t have an odor. If canoes and tents sound like torture, you’d hate it and I’d tell you to go to NYC where the air smells like exhaust and body odor” – u/pedantic_dullard

8.” Well the classic (for a reason) answer is driving the 1/101 north. You can hit Ventura, Santa Barbara, SLO, Morro Bay, Pismo Beach, Cambria, Monterey, Santa Cruz, Half Moon Bay, and get into SF in about 6.5 hours without stopping. All of those are on or near beautiful beaches and seaside cliffs with tons of shit to do around them. Big Bear is a few hours east and is beautiful. You can also get up into Mammoth Lakes. Not sure how far LA to Tahoe is. As far as parks go Sequoia National Forest and Yosemite are also absolutely unreal as well as Joshua Tree and Death Valley. Angeles National and Los Padres aren’t as popular but are also gorgeous. Tack on a little more time and there’s all of NorCal. Wine country is beautiful. Calistoga hot springs. Russian River. Eel River. Mendocino coast. Redwoods etc.” – u/BeastCoast

9.” Monument Valley Utah. For natural beauty, I think it’s one of the most uniquely beautiful areas we’ve got.” — u/ganchi_

10. “If you’re looking for a more rural or natural experience, areas like Montana, Colorado, or Maine could be a good fit.” — u/Organ_Stripe93

If you like culture

Photo: Orhan Cam/Shutterstock

11.” New England is beautiful in the summertime and in my opinion very underrated. The North East culture of cute seaside towns with boardwalks and candy shops and bicycle renting is great. You can explore the beaches but also some of the great parks— I found Acadia National Park in Maine to be breathtaking. Places like Martha’s Vineyard are also great to visit.” — u/AutumnAtronach

12. “New Orleans is the most important city to visit in America if you want a good and holistic perspective on American culture. New Orleans culture is truly what a ‘melting pot’ is. French, Spanish, English, African, and Native American culture combined into a city that is very much alive and has managed to make the best of a still recent tragedy. A Mecca for history, music, and art, both past and modern. It is honestly the heart of America.” – u/hyena_smile

13.” As many have said DC is great for history, really enjoyed the times I’ve been there. Boston is a really fun city, and again plenty of historical things to do, plus Cambridge is essentially next door and home to Harvard. Obviously probably less fun in the winter.” – u/SST0617

14. “Everyone is giving all the cool places to go – our big cities, our gambling dens, our parks, etc. – which is good and all, but if you’re someone who wants to bite into some lesser advertised Americana, I recommend the Great Lakes and Midwest areas. Lots of fun, kitschy and wholesome fun you can have if you appreciate that kind of thing. I’m a resident of Ohio, so I’ll give examples from my state: you should go to Cincinnati and check out their Art Deco buildings (especially the Union Terminal station), if you like architecture, and then go to Skyline Chili and have their chili-covered spaghetti (called an ‘[insert number]-way,’ depending on what you get on it; chili + spaghetti = 2-way, add cheese and it’s a 3-way, add onion or beans and it’s a 4-way, etc. – it is incredibly fun being able to ask a waiter/waitress for a 3-way and to be taken completely seriously). After that, drive out to our rural Adams County area and see Serpent Mound, an ancient burial site from some of the indigenous people in the area. There’s good wildflowers and off-the-beaten-path natural areas in this county, too, due to its history of glaciers striating the soil. From there, head to Amish country and stay at a bed-and-breakfast, and then hit some of the other sites around the state: the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Cedar Point amusement park, the town Botkins (just so you can say you were in a town called Botkins, which sounds like the name of a robot butler), the national Air Force Museum in Dayton, the home of the Wright Brothers, and so much more. You’ll find lots of hidden gems in our other midwestern and Great Lakes states, too. Look into some of the lesser-known “flyover” states and you’ll enjoy it.” –- u/Times_Hunger

The truth is America has so much to offer; although it’s pretty hard to see it all in one trip. To take it all in, you might want to consider a cross-country road trip. It’ll be worth it!

More like thisLifestyleWhere to travel in the US in 2022, according to your zodiac sign

Travelers are sharing where people visiting America for first time should go

Americans tend to get excited about the opportunity to explore what the rest of the world has to offer. The truth is there’s also so much to do in their own backyard. It’s easy to forget how massive it is — there’s even a map that shows how 30 European countries all fit in the US’ landmass. So, for a foreigner interested in visiting the US, it might be challenging to choose the best places to travel in the US. These users have the answers.

If you like the city

Photo: IM_photo/Shutterstock

1. “If you like nightlife and gambling, Las Vegas. Oddly, Vegas is also big on shopping last time I went. They have a weird combo of gambling, shopping, family entertainment, and now sports there. And, of course, the original reason for Vegas existing: business conferences.” u/midnightFreddie

2.” Depending on the season & weather, Detroit is awesome. Amazing food, museums (including, but not limited to the DIA, Motown Museum, and Museum of African American History), festivals, outdoor skating rink, three professional sports teams, craft fairs, the river walk. . . oh! and dozens of different music venues of varying sizes and formality.

People shit on the city, but those are people who don’t go to the city.” – u/thisbuttonsucks

3.” I would fly to the east coast and do a road trip. You can see the most big cities and diverse landscapes IMO. You can drive from Boston to NYC to Philly to DC in like a week. Spend some time in southern states past DC if you have time.” – u/dancethrusunday

4. “Surprised no one has mentioned Chicago yet. Tons to do just like NYC and LA, but different culture. Food is amazing, many great steakhouses, deep-dish (or really any type) pizza, Italian beef, etc. Wonderful lakefront Seasonal dependent like Boston. Also, close enough to either take a train or drive to Milwaukee, which is an underrated city and gives a better insight into the Midwest culture. Cheese and beer seem to be central to Milwaukee.” — u/SST0617

5. “In DC you don’t even need much money beyond a decent hotel. Just touring the national mall, its monuments and the museums is enough to fill up days and almost everything is free. NYC is a bit trickier to plan and more expensive but once you find decent accommodations the possibilities are almost endless. Sure you are likely to encounter some shitty things like any big city but most places a tourist would go are pretty nice and safe.” — u/LennyFackler

If you like nature

Photo: haveseen/Shutterstock

6.” Get out of the California cities and see the land. Start with the coast or Yosemite/Muir Woods/Joshua Tree yet don’t stop there. Explore. The local mountain peak that overlooks my neighborhood is 2 1/2 times the altitude of Ben Nevis. But it’s the 39th tallest peak in California. From the state’s 9th tallest range. So many visitors to this state spend a week trapped in Los Angeles traffic while they miss out on everything from glacial valleys to sand dunes” – u/doublestitch

7. “I live in Missouri, which isn’t much of an international destination. However, if you wanted to see nature in a super relaxing setting, where you can see some wildlife, talk to some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet, and take some beautiful photos, I’d 100% mention a camping/float trip in the Missouri/Arkansas Ozarks. There’s no “hustle and bustle” you find in big cities. There aren’t pushy souvenir vendors and TV famous stores or people to gawk at. No sushi or Michelin star restaurants. But you’ll find home cooking, nature, friendly people, damn good gas station chicken and pizza, river otters and deer, gorgeous, quiet sunrises, fresh spring water, and air that doesn’t have an odor. If canoes and tents sound like torture, you’d hate it and I’d tell you to go to NYC where the air smells like exhaust and body odor” – u/pedantic_dullard

8.” Well the classic (for a reason) answer is driving the 1/101 north. You can hit Ventura, Santa Barbara, SLO, Morro Bay, Pismo Beach, Cambria, Monterey, Santa Cruz, Half Moon Bay, and get into SF in about 6.5 hours without stopping. All of those are on or near beautiful beaches and seaside cliffs with tons of shit to do around them. Big Bear is a few hours east and is beautiful. You can also get up into Mammoth Lakes. Not sure how far LA to Tahoe is. As far as parks go Sequoia National Forest and Yosemite are also absolutely unreal as well as Joshua Tree and Death Valley. Angeles National and Los Padres aren’t as popular but are also gorgeous. Tack on a little more time and there’s all of NorCal. Wine country is beautiful. Calistoga hot springs. Russian River. Eel River. Mendocino coast. Redwoods etc.” – u/BeastCoast

9.” Monument Valley Utah. For natural beauty, I think it’s one of the most uniquely beautiful areas we’ve got.” — u/ganchi_

10. “If you’re looking for a more rural or natural experience, areas like Montana, Colorado, or Maine could be a good fit.” — u/Organ_Stripe93

If you like culture

Photo: Orhan Cam/Shutterstock

11.” New England is beautiful in the summertime and in my opinion very underrated. The North East culture of cute seaside towns with boardwalks and candy shops and bicycle renting is great. You can explore the beaches but also some of the great parks— I found Acadia National Park in Maine to be breathtaking. Places like Martha’s Vineyard are also great to visit.” — u/AutumnAtronach

12. “New Orleans is the most important city to visit in America if you want a good and holistic perspective on American culture. New Orleans culture is truly what a ‘melting pot’ is. French, Spanish, English, African, and Native American culture combined into a city that is very much alive and has managed to make the best of a still recent tragedy. A Mecca for history, music, and art, both past and modern. It is honestly the heart of America.” – u/hyena_smile

13.” As many have said DC is great for history, really enjoyed the times I’ve been there. Boston is a really fun city, and again plenty of historical things to do, plus Cambridge is essentially next door and home to Harvard. Obviously probably less fun in the winter.” – u/SST0617

14. “Everyone is giving all the cool places to go – our big cities, our gambling dens, our parks, etc. – which is good and all, but if you’re someone who wants to bite into some lesser advertised Americana, I recommend the Great Lakes and Midwest areas. Lots of fun, kitschy and wholesome fun you can have if you appreciate that kind of thing. I’m a resident of Ohio, so I’ll give examples from my state: you should go to Cincinnati and check out their Art Deco buildings (especially the Union Terminal station), if you like architecture, and then go to Skyline Chili and have their chili-covered spaghetti (called an ‘[insert number]-way,’ depending on what you get on it; chili + spaghetti = 2-way, add cheese and it’s a 3-way, add onion or beans and it’s a 4-way, etc. – it is incredibly fun being able to ask a waiter/waitress for a 3-way and to be taken completely seriously). After that, drive out to our rural Adams County area and see Serpent Mound, an ancient burial site from some of the indigenous people in the area. There’s good wildflowers and off-the-beaten-path natural areas in this county, too, due to its history of glaciers striating the soil. From there, head to Amish country and stay at a bed-and-breakfast, and then hit some of the other sites around the state: the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Cedar Point amusement park, the town Botkins (just so you can say you were in a town called Botkins, which sounds like the name of a robot butler), the national Air Force Museum in Dayton, the home of the Wright Brothers, and so much more. You’ll find lots of hidden gems in our other midwestern and Great Lakes states, too. Look into some of the lesser-known “flyover” states and you’ll enjoy it.” –- u/Times_Hunger

The truth is America has so much to offer; although it’s pretty hard to see it all in one trip. To take it all in, you might want to consider a cross-country road trip. It’ll be worth it!

More like thisLifestyleWhere to travel in the US in 2022, according to your zodiac sign

Flying could be a net-zero emissions activity as soon as 2050, data shows

That big trip you’re planning to take in the next few years could end up being much better for the planet than it would have been a few years ago — or even would be today.  That news comes from the Waypoint 2050 report from Aviation Benefits Beyond Borders, an international organization of airline industry partners that studies the economic and environmental impact of air travel.

Matador spoke with Yann Cabaret, the Vice President of strategy, product and marketing for SITA, to help dissect the report, airline emissions, and what this means for the average traveler.  SITA works with airlines to enact efficient operating systems and developed a four-point plan to address carbon emissions in the aviation industry and achieve net-zero by 2050, largely based on the Waypoint report.

As a IT provider for the industry, SITA works to streamline operations for airports and airlines to make them more efficient. As boring as it sounds, the company’s systems allow its clients to be more eco-friendly by saving fuel and eliminating unnecessary logistics (ensuring the tech and systems on a plane are functioning in way that allows for the more efficient flight path, for example). Its processes are built on science-based targets to reduce emissions.

In our conversation with Yann, we asked him about the rumors that air travel will become more sustainable, and whether sustainable fuel is the wave of the future. We asked him when we can expect at least some of the fuel used in most commercial flights to be derived from sustainable sources and when he thinks air travel really will be net-zero.

Cabaret offered some background on the emissions of air travel and some good news. Progress is happening — and for an industry as large as aviation, that progress is actually happening at a decent place. Here’s a quick recap of his take on the industry.

How you’re flying is impacting the planet

We start with the impact that we as air travelers are already having on the environment. Commercial air travel currently accounts for about three to four percent of global emissions (via The New York Times), which is far fewer emissions than cars emit (ground transport accounts for about 20 percent of global emissions). Fortunately, sustainable aviation fuel — airplane fuel derived from renewable bio-based sources rather than fossil fuel — is already here and is being used in small quantities on select commercial flights.

However, Cabaret points to four key areas in which the industry needs to continue to address airline emissions in order to achieve net-zero by 2050. It’s a major goal for the industry, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The areas are:

Using sustainable aviation fuels (SAF)Building better technologies (new aircraft and engines)Optimizing operational and infrastructure efficiencies (what SITA and its customers work on every day)Taking market-based measures (offsetting and carbon capture to fill any remaining gaps)

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How the airline industry will become more sustainable, and airlines that are leading the charge

Now for the good news. According to Cabaret, the airline industry can reach net-zero emissions by 2050 by addressing the four points listed above. But it’s going to take a lot of work. Fortunately, a number of initiatives are in place to make this happen, and a few of the most well-known airlines in the US are leading the charge.

Cabaret says that the Waypoint 2050 report will serve as a roadmap for decarbonizing air travel, stating that success will be determined by product innovation scaling to meet market demand — basically, some of the stuff that will make flying more sustainable hasn’t been invented yet, but brilliant minds somewhere are working on it.

Bringing this new tech to life will take the support of the US government in implementing policies that favor research and development of greener technology, including laws that enforce strict emissions standards and/or place a tax on carbon.

Fortunately, many airlines and airline industry partners are already working to make air travel more sustainable. Already underway are initiatives like:

According to Aviation Benefits Beyond Borders, the average flight today produces 54 percent less CO2 than it would have in 1990 and 80 percent less than it would have in the 1950s. That’s due to better engines and more efficient flight patterns and practices.The US government set its first airline emissions rules in 2020 (via NPR). Environmentalists say it didn’t go far enough, but it at least established a baseline.According to Cabaret, Air France and Malaysia Airlines implemented a program called Sky Breathe to analyze efficiency and fuel-saving opportunities. In 2019 alone, this initiative saved more than $150 million and reduced CO2 emissions by 590,000 tons.Some airlines have already began testing flights with sustainable aviation fuels, which the same report estimates could reduce emissions by 53 to 71 percent by 2050.In the meantime, airlines like JetBlue, British Airways, and Air France are practice carbon offsetting for all domestic flights.Several major airlines like United and Delta have already pledged to reach net-zero by 2050.

Photo: photosounds/Shutterstock

How you can be a more responsible flyer

The best way to minimize your own carbon impact is to fly economy. Economy seats take up less space, which allows for more passengers, which then decreases the number of flights needed. Economy tickets also generally require fewer services like full meals and drinks served in disposable containers, both of which contribute to the overall environmental impact of a flight.

Furthermore, flying with a low-cost air carrier can help to minimize those emissions because it’s likely that most seats, if not all, will be economy class. As counterintuitive as this may be to your personal comfort, it’s better for overall emissions.

Finally, do your best to fly direct to your destination, avoiding layovers whenever possible. Most of a flight’s emissions happen during takeoff and landing, so fewer take-offs and landings means fewer emissions spewing into the atmosphere. And of course, bring your own water and drink bottles, and carry reusable cutlery rather than using disposable options whenever possible.

For more, check out Matador’s guide on how to be a more sustainable traveler while flying.

More climate wins this week

Australia’s largest coal-fired power plant will close seven years early, Elektrek reported. The Eraring Power Station was due to close in 2032 but will now close in 2025, removing 2,880 annual megawatts (MW) of coal power from the country’s energy grid from the date of its closure.

Insect-based pet food may be coming to supermarket shelves, according to a report from Quartz. This would be huge in terms of making pet food more sustainable, as the industry is responsible for about 25 percent of emissions from meat production in the United States. The biggest hurdle appears to be convincing the general population that it’s palatable.

We close this week with encouraging news. The US met an Obama-era commitment to cut greenhouse gas emissions at least 17 percent compared with 2005 levels by 2020 (via E&E News). We still have a long way to go to reach net-zero by 2050, as President Biden has pledged, but in the interim, any good news is welcome.

More like thisNewsNearly one million Airbnb hosts now offer EV chargers

These beautiful San Diego Airbnbs put you close to the beach and downtown

Known for its mile of white sandy beaches, America’s Finest City has an abundance of attractions and other neat finds for anyone and everyone. No matter where you stay or what vibe you’re feeling, San Diego has visitors covered, from the beach to exploring its vibrant downtown to going remote in a secluded cabin. If you want to experience it all, here are the best Airbnb San Diego rentals for any stay or traveler for a San Diego gateway.

Beachfront Airbnbs in San DiegoAirbnbs in downtown San DiegoSan Diego Airbnbs with a poolCabin rentals in San Diego

We hope you love the Airbnb San Diego rentals 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.

 

Beachfront Airbnbs in San Diego

Bohemian residential retreat with an oceanfront balcony

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This colorful and bright home is just steps away from the beach and has everything you need to relax, rejuvenate and recoup. The house is a three-bedroom, three-bath perfect for a chill vacation with family and friends. There is a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living room, and a patio with an ocean view but also perfect for watching sunsets.

Nine guests, three bedrooms
Price: $529 per night

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Modern condo walking distance to local shops

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This newly renovated unit is the perfect place to relax and enjoy your getaway to San Diego. The apartment has a kitchen and a living room with doors that lead to the balcony to enjoy that stunning view of the beach. This unit is within walking distance of many restaurants, coffee shops, and craft breweries.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $245 per night

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Beachfront boutique cottage

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Enjoy this cozy beachfront boutique property for your next San Diego vacation. This quaint condo is ideal for solo travelers or couples and is within walking distance of the beach, the pier, and many restaurants and other entertainment. Guest will get front row seats to beach views and wake up to the waves’ lush sounds right outside the window. The newly renovated home features a full bathroom, living room, bedroom, and kitchen.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $285 per night

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Romantic luxury gateway on the beach

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Want to experience a romantic getaway for two? Well, check out this newly renovated luxury home just minutes away from all entertainment and the beach. This home is located right in the heart of the infamous La Jolla Cove with world-class amenities and restaurants. The luxury home features floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room and the bedroom that showcases the beautiful beach. This grand home will surely be your new home away from home.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $570 per night

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Pink door chic beachfront cottage

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This single-family home sits directly nearly on the water, perfect for a beach vacation in San Diego. The house is freshly renovated and ideal for those looking for safety and privacy. The home has a spacious living room and fully equipped kitchen, and the beach home is also stocked up on sand toys, boogie boards, and other needs for your beach gateway. There is a private backyard with a deck, lawn, fire pit, and BBQ for a night in after a full day at the beach.

Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $825 per night

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Airbnbs in downtown San Diego

Upscale loft in Little Italy

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Located in Little Italy, this upscale loft is the ideal location base for exploring Downtown San Diego. This modern loft features high ceilings and tall windows that bring in every inch of light. There is a full kitchen with a door that leads to the terrace and a spacious living room. This loft is in the heart of Little Italy, a vibrant neighborhood full of restaurants and boutique shopping and not far from Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo.

Five guests, one bedroom
Price: $275 per night

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Serene casita with beautiful garden-like courtyard

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Enjoy this peaceful and calming guesthouse studio for your next San Diego vacation. Whether it’s a friend’s trip, a couples trip, a solo trip, or a staycation, this home is the perfect Airbnb in San Diego’s coolest area. Guests can wake up to the soft sounds of hummingbirds and see beautiful butterflies roaming around the courtyard. The southwestern-style interior will surely transport you into a tropical paradise. The casita is just minutes away from various restaurants ranging from vegan food to upmarket Italian food.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $130 per night

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San Diego Airbnbs with a pool

Grand architectural villa with a massive patio and pool

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Are you looking for a beautiful villa to have a family reunion or friends gateway? Well, this architectural villa is the perfect place to host it. Indulge in all the luxury amenities this Airbnb San Diego rental offers with its beamed feelings, a spacious open plan layout, an oversized patio with a gazebo, a hot tub, and a massive pool with a waterfall rock feature. This home is a luxury paradise with all the resort-like amenities that you need.

Ten guests, three bedrooms
Price: $1,350 per night

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Newly built mid-century modern luxury home

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This fully renovated mid-century home is brand new from top to bottom, with every resort-like amenities that you could think of. The home features a fully stocked kitchen with a massive island perfect for dinners with huge gatherings, along with a dining room table made for ten. A spacious living room is great for entertaining and features a large smart TV and board games. The backyard is grand and features a heated pool with solar, a BBQ grill, an outdoor shower, outdoor seating areas, and games like corn hole and shuffleboard.

Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $890 per night

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Cabin rentals in San Diego

Cozy, quaint romantic cabin in the mountains perfect for a couples vacation

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This cute and quaint little cabin is inspired by lodges built in East Africa. This cabin is set to be an oasis and a place of peace and romance, yet not far from the city. The cabin features a gourmet kitchen with an island and a peaceful bedroom area connected. Vegetable gardens surround the home with all types of organic fruits and vegetables that guests can pick themselves. The serene cabin is five minutes from Stone Brewery, Felicita Park, Lake Hodges, and a scenic hour drive to local wineries.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $317 per night

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Remote retreat for a peaceful gateway from reality

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Escape reality with this remote cozy cabin for a peaceful getaway. The place features a full kitchen, a spacious dining room with a beautiful fireplace, a full bathroom, one full bedroom, and a loft that serves as a second bedroom. A lovely large patio overlooks Palomar Mountain and has a BBQ grill. Enjoy the stunning greenery and the views of the San Diego area below with this quaint remote cabin.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $249 per night

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More like thisWhere to StayThe 9 best San Francisco Airbnbs with views of the skyline and Golden Gate

common Mexican phrases

Mexican Spanish is very different from the versions of the language spoken in other hispanic countries like Spain, Chile, Costa Rica, etc. We have our own slang and funny expressions that you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. So, whether you’re planning an epic trip through Mexico, want to impress your Mexican friends at home, or an expat in Mexico city who wants to blend in a little better with the locals, this quick introduction to 14 common Mexican Spanish sayings should help you achieve your goal in no time at all!

1. ¿Mande?

“Don’t say ‘what’, say ‘mande’” is one of those classic things Mexican moms tell their kids. Even if we’ve never really understood what’s wrong with asking “what” (“qué” in Spanish), this recurring instruction has stuck with us, and we commonly use “mande” as a polite Mexican Spanish version of the aforementioned word.

So remember, when you think your waiter is asking what type of wine you want with your contemporary Mexican dinner, but you didn’t quite catch what he said, don’t say “¿qué?,” say “¿mande?”

2. ¿Bueno?

Bueno is the first word you’ll hear whenever you make a phone call to anyone in Mexico. It isn’t really a salutation, more just a random word (bueno literally means “good”) we use at the beginning of every call. Only the person receiving the call will say it, and only once. If you answer back with another bueno, things will go all weird. Go ahead and try it!

So when you’re calling to book a bed in that cute little hostel in downtown San Miguel de Allende, and you hear a bueno from the receptionist, you’ll know exactly what to make of that.

3. Ahorita

A time-based Mexican Spanish expression that depends entirely on the context and the speaker, ahorita is supposed to express immediacy, but we tend to use it as a temporal wildcard that could be referring to any amount of time between the next few seconds and the next few…let’s say minutes.

It’s a good one to throw at your travel partner when he impatiently asks when you’ll be ready to go out and hit the bars in Mexico City…and you haven’t even taken a shower yet!

4. ¡Aguas!

Our short, simple, and effective Mexican Spanish way to say “be careful.” We use it in situations where immediate action and quick reflexes are required, like when you’re about to step in dog poop, or when you cross the street thinking those cars are going to stop simply because you’re using a crosswalk.

Don’t get confused if your waiter says “aguas” when handing you a delicious, steaming hot café de olla on a chilly morning in the mountain city of Taxco. They have not brought you the wrong beverage (aguas literally translates to “water”) — she’s just trying to save you from burning your tongue.

5. Órale

This Mexican Spanish saying is a tricky one. It’s normally used to express agreement, but depending on the tone and context it can also mean “hurry up,” “that’s amazing,” “let’s go,” “I wasn’t expecting that,” “it’s alright,” “come on,” “please,” “sounds like a plan,” “watch it,” or simply “yes.” Practice makes perfect, but remember we also abbreviate this expression to ora, which is also an abbreviation of ahora (“now”), and that there’s always ándale…which is mostly the same, but a little different.

Ready to run up the steps of Teotihuacán‘s Pyramid of the Sun? Órale!

6. Güey

If your Mexican buddies start calling you güey, that’s probably a good sign. It means they consider you a friend, and you can refer to them in the same way. This is another confusing term that most of the time can be interpreted as “dude,” but can also mean “some guy” (un güey), “your boyfriend” (tu güey), or “you’re really stupid” (estás bien güey). Be careful not to confuse “estás bien güey” with “¿estás bien, güey?” (“are you alright, dude?”).

In Northern Mexico, güey is normally replaced with vato (“dude”), primo (“cousin”), or compa (for the sake of simplicity, let’s just say this one means “dude” again).

7. Comper

A short version of con permiso (“excuse me”) that’s used exclusively to make your presence known to the people around you while you maneuver through tight spaces, comper is especially useful at festivals and markets where phrases like comper, ahí va el diablo (“excuse me, the devil’s coming through”) are ubiquitous.

El diablo in this context is not the Lord of Darkness, but the dolly used to transport goods in Mexican markets. And there are a lot of incredible markets in Mexico.

8. Provecho / provechito

Some people translate this common Mexican saying as “Enjoy your meal,” but this doesn’t seem completely accurate. Provecho is a strange greeting we use to acknowledge people who are about to eat, are already eating, or have just finished their meal. It’s not uncommon to say provecho to complete strangers, especially to every complete stranger you make eye contact with on your way out of that restaurant in Oaxaca where you just ate the best mole poblano of your life.

Provechito is just a cute way of saying provecho.

9. ¿Qué onda?

One of our favourite Mexican Spanish greetings, qué onda (literally “what a wave”) is the exact equivalent of “What’s up?” The wave can easily be substituted by a fart (qué pedo), a fraud (qué transa), a mushroom (qué hongo), or a roll (qué rollo) without altering its meaning.

10. Chido / chilo / chingón

These Mexican Spanish phrases are easy ones. They all express that something’s good. Simple as that. Chingón is the best of the three, but it denotes so much awesomeness that some people consider it extremely rude. Chido and chilo are the mild and socially acceptable versions, but still pretty awesome. Chido is used in Central Mexico, while chilo is mostly used in the northern states and is pronounced “shilo.”

11. Bien padre

Padre means “cool” (as well as “father,” obviously). If you want to say that something’s really cool, you can say está bien padre (“this is really father”) or está padrísimo (“this is super father”). Some other expressions used to say that something’s cool include está de pelos (“this is hairy”) and está con madre (“this is with mother”).

12. Cámara

Literally meaning “camera” or “chamber,” this is a common Mexican Spanish term is used to show agreement. More adventurous speakers can substitute it for camarón (“shrimp”). As in: “We should hit the beach at Playa del Carmen after we check out the Maya ruins in Tulum. Camarón!”

13. El mal del puerco

“The evil of pork” is the common state of drowsiness that overtakes your body after a copious meal. The evilness resides in its ability to dominate a person’s will completely, forcing its victims to take a nap, or coyotito (“a little coyote”), despite previous plans.

14. ¡Gracias!

Looks like a simple “thank you,” doesn’t it? You’ll eventually notice we use this word in contexts that don’t sound logical at all, like when we’re refusing the offers of street vendors or dealing with those bank employees that insist on providing us with an extra credit card. We’re not really thankful for their effort, we’re just saying, “No, I don’t want that.” Think about it as a “no, thank you” without the “no.”

A version of this article was previously published on October 21, 2015, and was updated on February 25, 2022.

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8 Ukrainian cultural landmarks at risk from Russia’s attack

Russia is currently undertaking an aggressive military invasion of Ukraine, a completely sovereign country to its southern border. Russian Federation President Vladimir Putin has publicly stated that Ukraine should never have become its own state after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. Putin claims it should still be part of Russia, and while this isn’t a new opinion for him or the Russian government, it previously wasn’t enough to justify any military action on its own.

However, in the last few years, Ukraine has started taking action to become a member of NATO (the North Atlantic Treaty Organization), a multi-country coalition founded by the US after WWII to keep the Soviet Union’s military and political might in check. Putin claims that allowing Ukraine to join NATO — even though Ukraine has a long way to go before becoming eligible — would be a direct threat to Russia’s security and will inevitably lead to the US stationing nuclear weapons pointed directly at Moscow on Russia’s border. Recent speeches from Putin have shown a complete unwillingness to engage diplomatically, and a full invasion began on February 24.

It won’t take long for Russia and Russian-backed troops to penetrate deeper into Ukraine. Military divisions are currently moving into the country at strategic points along the Russia-Ukraine border and the Ukraine-Belarus border (Belarus has offered Russia support). There have been both civilian and military casualties. The full extent of the impact on human life that’s happened already, and will continue to happen until the invasion ends, won’t be clear for some time.

The invasion also puts the parks, natural wonders, towns, buildings, and cultural institutions in these areas at risk, either from the direct destruction from active warfare or from being repurposed or damaged as symbolic acts.

The following eight places in Ukraine are just some of the landmarks that may be in serious peril.

1. St. Sophia Cathedral, Ukraine’s oldest building

Photo: Marianna Ianovska/Shutterstock

St. Sophia’s Cathedral is the oldest building in Ukraine’s capital city, Kyiv. Construction started around the year 1010 — a period in which the area was part of what would eventually become Russia — and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Odessa National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet

Photo: Alexander Levitsky/Shutterstock

Odessa, a city on the Black Sea where bombs have already begun to cause damage, is home to the stunning Odessa National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet. It sits more than 1,600 guests in its opulent interior and is one of the most beautiful in the country, with large fountains in front. The bulk of the current Baroque-style building was built in 1877, though the most recent renovation was in 2007.

3. Lake Lemuria, Ukraine’s pink lake

Photo: mykhailo pavlenko/Shutterstock

Yes, this lake is really pink. The color comes from the algae under the water and is most vivid on hot, sunny days when the water level is lowest. Unfortunately, it’s on the Crimean Peninsula, a part of Ukraine that ceded to Russia in 2014.  While the lake is in Ukraine, it’s only a few miles from the Russian border, making it a no-go for tourists.

4. Vozdvyzhenka, Kyiv’s rainbow neighborhood

Photo: Vitalii Vitleo/Shutterstock

The buildings associated with the fall of the USSR aren’t exactly known for being beautiful (in fact, the term “brutalist” comes to mind), but the Vozdvyzhenka district in Kyiv aims to change that. The neighborhood was nothing special (stylistically speaking) for many years until the very early 2000s, when developers began remaking it into luxury  apartments. Now, pastel buildings invite visitors to slowly stroll down the streets, and restaurants and cafes offer outdoor dining in the sunshine. Interestingly, many of the homes are still empty, as the revamp made it into one of the city’s most expensive areas and out of reach for many residents.

5. Shevchenko City Park

Photo: Artem Grebenyuk/Shutterstock

Shevchenko City Garden is an urban park in Kharkiv, a town just 30 miles from the border with Russia. The sprawling garden is a popular place for evening strolls, and street vendors are out all day in the spring and summer selling snacks and ice cream. The park is home to a botanical garden, a zoo, an observatory, and a handful of large fountains like this one, which put on light shows at night.

6. Gorky Park

Photo: ioanna_alexa/Shutterstock

Also in Kharkiv is Gorky Park, a family-friendly park and mini-theme park surrounded by greenery. It’s home to the largest Ferris wheel in Ukraine (184 feet tall), as well as a variety of areas with themes like “the Middle Ages” and “Summer in France.” There are also plenty of outdoor cafes and food carts for visitors who’d rather skip the roller coaster.

7. Rynok Square, Lviv

Photo: Ruslan Lytvyn/Shutterstock

Despite being in the westernmost part of the country, the air raid sirens went off in Lviv this week in response to Russian attacks. It’s the first time they’ve been activated since WWII. That puts the charming downtown streets and famous Rynok Square in peril. Lviv is one of the most appealing towns in Eastern Europe and on spring weekends, Rynok Square is alive with visitors and locals alike shopping, socializing, or enjoying brunch in the sunshine.

8. The “House with Chimaeras” in Kyiv

Photo: Olha Solodenko/Shutterstock

The capital city’s House with Chimaeras is officially known as the Gorodetsky House as is one of the few Art Nouveau buildings in the city. It was built in the early 1900s as an apartment building by a designer with an affinity for hunting and big game — hence the intricate sculptures of rhinos, elephants, and eagles across the exterior. It’s currently used by Ukraine’s executive office as meeting space and guest housing, and the architect often compared to Gaudí, of Casa Battló fame.

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Sardinia’s rotten cheese is illegal, but here’s how you can taste it

Casu marzu is one of the most legendary dishes in Italy, a land that is already rife with so much legendary food. It’s part sacred culinary tradition in Sardinia, an Italian island situated in the Mediterranean Sea, part urban (or rather, rural) legend. It will either intrigue or repulse you – or maybe a little of both. It’s illegal, yet like driveway fireworks on New Year’s Eve, authorities turn a blind eye – or more likely, pull up a chair when it comes to nibbling on this intriguing delicacy. And like the Italian region from which it hails, casu marzu, the infamous maggot cheese of Sardinia, is a cultural relic unto itself.

On your next visit to Sardinia, you won’t see casu marzu on the supermarket shelf or restaurant menus. Still, if you’re a culinary adventurer determined to feast your way through Italy, it is possible to find it, if you know where, who, and how to ask. Here’s everything you need to know about tracking down casu marzu in Sardinia.

What is casu marzu?

Photo: Gengis90/Shutterstock

In Sardinian language, which is distinct from Italian, casu marzu translates to rotten cheese. Yes, all cheese is technically moldy, but casu marzu takes that meaning to a whole new level: The cheese is rotten because it’s infested with maggots. When you eat the cheese, you also eat the maggots. Alive. On purpose.

Casu marzu is created in the early days of the pecorino cheesemaking process, before the rind is fully formed on a new round of sheep-milk cheese. It can develop either by accident, when a piophila casei, or cheese fly, lays her eggs in the still-fresh cheese, or on purpose, when the cheese is deliberately exposed in order to tempt the flies to lay their eggs. The eggs hatch and become maggots. The maggots feed on the cheese, which enters their digestive tracks and creates an acid that passes back into the cheese. The acid breaks down the cheese fats and creates a creamy texture. When the cheese starts to ooze lacrime, or tears, it’s ready to eat. And far from making diners squirm, casu marzu is considered a delicacy in Sardinia.

For Sardinians and those who love the history and culture of Sardinia, casu marzu represents a lot more than just rotten cheese. Like so many culinary traditions, casu marzu was born from hardship and necessity. Sardinia is famous for its paradisiacal seascapes, but its interior is beautifully foreboding – with rocky soil, fields of boulders dotted with prickly pear cactus, and daunting elevation changes better suited to goats than humans. In the more than 5,000 years that shepherds have roamed this land, survival here has always meant adapting to whatever nature threw at them, and casu marzu, Dario Dongo, a Rome-based attorney and expert on food culture and law, tells that Matador Network that is a testament to “the great heritage of breeders’ resilience and genius.” Food and resource scarcity meant nothing could go to waste – not even cheese that the flies had ruined. Some years, fly infestations affected an entire season’s worth of cheese. So hardscrabble islanders learned to love their accidental culinary creations.

What does casu marzu taste like?

The flavor qualities of casu marzu are difficult to describe to people who have never tried it. Imagine the bite of a strong, aged pecorino cheese, and then multiply the tang and saltiness exponentially. Then factor in the smell, which has the same nostril-hair tingling acridness of every stinky cheese, turned all the way up. Add in the tongue-coating creamy consistency, and you’ve got a cheese that is memorable, to say the least. For lovers of strong, smelly cheeses like gorgonzola, limburger, or French Epoisse, then taste-wise, casu marzu won’t be too much of a stretch.

Except for, of course, the maggots. They spring to high alert the first time the surface of the cheese is disturbed, and they begin to panic en masse and attempt to hop away from the scene. While most are smeared into the cheese, which is typically spread on paper-thin carasau flatbread, many escape, flinging themselves across the table, onto the cheese-eater’s hand, and, once deprived of a host, presumably off to a swift death. Sardinians wash down casu marzu with hearty Cannonau red wine, in order to cut the fattiness of the cheese.

Where to find casu marzu

Photo: Paolo Certo/Shutterstock

Commercial sale of casu marzu has been banned for decades, first by the Italian government and later by EU health authorities. Dario Dongo advocates for the cheese to be classified under the EU’s “novel food” label, but that would require that it be created in a controlled environment, which contradicts its origins and traditional preparation. Meanwhile, “the market is strictly local and it will remain so,” says Dongo, until some “pioneer of entomology” comes along and invents a safe and sanitary way to prepare and export it.

What does that mean for the casual visitor to Sardinia who has a hankering for casu marzu? You can’t just waltz into a restaurant and ask for it, but you can use some subtle diplomacy.

“The best opportunity [to sample casu marzu] is to be invited to private homes or businesses,” Sardinian food journalist Giovanni Fancello tells Matador Network.

If you can’t score an invite to a private lunch or dinner, then head to the interior of the island, which is sheep-herding country. Rural establishments, such as agriturismi (farm stays with restaurants), aziende agricole (farms), or simple trattorie, are where your chances are highest for finding some of that wriggling cheese. Quietly ask if it’s available – Fancello says that late summer and fall is the best time to find it.

And Dongo urges the curious to not be put off by what can sometimes be seen as Sardinians’ stand-offish nature.

“Sardinians are an extraordinary and somehow mysterious community,” he says. “Nonetheless, as you get in touch with them, they’re so welcoming and proud to share their traditions. When you visit the countryside, in Sergio Leone’s spaghetti-western environment, you just ask and you will find.”

But just remember, once you’ve asked for and been offered casu marzu by a food-proud Sard, there’s no turning back. Make sure to keep that Cannonau wine handy.

More like thisFood + DrinkWhat it’s like to go truffle hunting in Italy with Tuscany’s ‘Giulio the Truffle Hunter’

How to protect your valuables

It’s no fun worrying about your stuff. Whether you’re concerned about camera gear, money, or passports, taking extra steps to protect your valuables when traveling is highly recommended.

I am a seasoned travel filmmaker who logs miles and miles on the road each month. Over the years, I’ve learned the hard way how to protect my valuables. From packing strategies to insurance, to device tracking and common sense, here are some of the precautions that I, a professional traveler, use to keep my valuables safe while traveling.

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Minimize what you bring and lock the restSplit up and hide your cash and cardsUse the tech tracking at your disposalKeep your camera safeKeep your photos and videos safeInsure your valuablesMinimize what you bring and lock the rest

The safest way to protect your valuables when traveling is to leave them at home. But that’s not always an option.

Try not to draw attention to yourself, flashing high-ticket items like expensive jewelry or large cameras and, when possible, keep your valuables on you, or within sight. Avoid leaving your bag on the beach unattended, or in the backseat of a car in plain view where curious eyes may wander.

Also, lock up your bag in a locker if staying in a hostel, exploring a museum, or embarking on a day outdoors. Remember to use your hotel room’s safe, just so long as you don’t forget to get your things out before you leave.

When out and about, consider a TSA approved lock for your backpack or suitcase or worst case a twist-tie to keep zippers closed. Traveling with a backpack whose main compartment zipper rests against your back is a great way to keep your valuables safe from pickpockets.

Split up and hide your cash and cards when traveling

Photo: Michael O’Keene/Shutterstock

When it comes to money, split it up. Keep a debit card, one or two credit cards and some cash in your wallet and make a second wallet with a different debit card and a different credit card and some spare cash to hide in a hidden pocket in your luggage so it’s hard to find. An old deodorant tube, makeup case, or feminine pad make for some of the best ways to hide your valuables while traveling.

Your ID and passport are invaluable, and losing them on the road could be complicated. Protect these important items with extreme care by hiding them in a travel waist bag and keep a physical and digital copy for backup just in case.

Protect your valuables by using the tech tracking at your disposal

One of the most important items you’ll want to protect on your travels are your electronic devices. Apple users can use the Find My app to track their devices (iPhone, iPad, AirPod, Mac, etc.), and Android users can install the Google Find My Device app.

In case you discover something missing, you can see your devices on a map or play a sound to find your device. If your electronics get into the wrong hands, you can erase your personal data remotely or lock it down.

Apple users can also attach an AirTag to bags and keys to keep track of where they are. That way, you’ll know if your suitcase missed a connecting flight; if your backpack is where you left it at the restaurant or in the hands of a thief; and you can play a sound to try to locate your keys.

How to keep your camera safe when traveling

Photo: BublikHaus/Shutterstock

Cameras are tricky because you can’t leave them at home – having photos and videos of your travels is how you remember them. Use good judgment and never leave your camera out of your sight if you can help it. As well, keep your gear safe from the elements. Invest in a padded camera bag to protect your gear from bumps along the way, like the Manfrotto Manhattan Mover 50 for a flexible all-in-one pack, which has customizable padded compartments and comes with a dedicated rain cover in case of wet weather.

How to keep your photos and videos safe while traveling

Professional photographers and filmmakers know the rule: Never keep all your photos or footage in one place.

Traveling for a week snapping all your photos on one memory card is a risk – if that one memory card gets lost or corrupted, you’ll lose everything. Before launching your drone or taking your GoPro out for a swim, insert a fresh memory card and put your old memory card in a safe place. That way, if you crash your drone or your GoPro sinks to the bottom of the ocean, you won’t lose your entire trip’s library of memories.

Once you get back to your accommodation, back up your data on two hard drives or more. Save your photos to your computer’s internal hard drive, and then copy the files onto an external drive for backup. Traditional external hard drives like the Lacie 5TB Rugged Drives are good for travel with a rubber bumper, and are a good value for cost and storage space, but solid state hard drives (SSD) like the SanDisk Professional 2TB G-DRIVE are safer since they have no mechanical spinning parts and are less likely to fail. If you have solid WiFi, backup your memories to a cloud storage for extra security. Services like OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive, iCloud and Amazon Cloud will sync your photos to the cloud and multiple computers if connected.

Prepare for the worst: Insure your valuables

For peace of mind, make sure you’re covered by insurance to protect your valuables when traveling.

Check your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy to see what’s covered for your personal property. Double check your total coverage amount, the deductible in case you have to file a claim, and the level of protection. For example, natural disasters and theft may be covered under your policy, however, coverage for accidents like dropping your camera may not. Also check the location, domestic travel may be covered differently than international adventures. Sometimes there are special clauses about being in aircrafts or watercraft. You can also look into a valuable personal property policy for specific items like jewelry or cameras and lenses. If you’re traveling for business, consider getting a dedicated policy for business equipment in addition to your business insurance.

For specific items, like your electronics and camera gear, you might look into purchasing insurance at the time of purchase. For example, DJI Care Refresh offers comprehensive protection for DJI products like drones. The policy includes replacements within one or two years for things like collisions and water damage. Apple offers support and repair options via AppleCare+, so whether you break your screen or need a more serious fix, they can help you. B&H Photo Video offers coverage for everyday wear and tear like cracked lenses, liquid damage, LCD Screen failures, broken buttons, SD Card failure, and more. Most camera stores can offer individual insurance for those expensive items.

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A dream Maldives vacation is more affordable than you think — with these tips

Known as one of the world’s most luxurious and breathtakingly beautiful destinations, favored by celebrities and crypto billionaires, the Maldives, surprisingly, can also offer an affordable beach vacation destination. Yes, you read that right. The place that is widely considered a paradise for ultra newlyweds to relax on flawless beaches and fantasize about the rest of their lives together is not actually out of reach for ordinary couples. Sure you can spend $50,000 per night to sleep in a suite under the sea, but you can also experience the Maldives on a budget and still have a pretty sweet vacation. From affordable overwater villas to yacht rentals, follow our guide to learn how to have an affordable Maldives beach vacation.

We hope you love the spaces and 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. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.

How to experience a Maldives beach vacation on a budget

Photo: Coco Collection

Spread across 1,200 atolls and with more than 140 resorts in all price brackets to choose from, a Maldives beach vacation can easily be experienced on a budget.

No, traveling here isn’t going to be as cheap as backpacking in Southeast Asia, but the nightly rate at some of the resorts is akin to what you’d experience in the Caribbean or Mexico. Except you’re in a super exotic destination in the Indian Ocean, waking up in a king-sized bed in an overwater bungalow on the edge of a pristine white sandy beach.

So how do you do this? Well, first it is important to identify what you want most from your holiday experience before booking. Do you want as luxe of a hotel as possible? Or do you care less about where you sleep and would rather have more cash for activities like the exceptional diving and snorkeling on offer here? Once you figure this out, you can decide what to splurge on and where to save.

Are there cheap flights to Maldives?

Photo: Reethi Beach Resort

One of the most expensive parts of getting to the Maldives is likely going to be your flight, but even this can be done affordably.

That said, this may not be an area where you want to skimp too much as the journey from the US to South Asia takes between 20 and 30 hours. For a flight option that offers a good balance between luxury and cost, the Qatar Airways economy class would be a great choice. It has consistently been voted one of the top economy class cabins in the world. To get the best cheap Maldives packages, consider booking your trip during the low season, which is considered to be from May to November, and book flights that run mid-week, such as on a Monday through Wednesday. You can also use points from your credit card or loyalty programs and sign up for deal alerts on flights to the Maldives for additional ways to save.

How to get around the Maldives

Photo: Reethi Beach Resort

Once in Malé, the capital of the Maldives, depending on how far your resort is from the airport, the final leg of your journey is to take a boat or seaplane.

This is potentially an area for you to save some money too as the speed boats can be more affordable. For example, one resort priced travel to their island by speedboat at $168 and by seaplane at $275. But if you prefer the seaplane or require it as your resort is too far to access by boat, you might find that its unforgettable views of the sandbanks and turquoise lagoons make up for the higher price tag. Generally, the cost of your seaplane will vary depending on the distance you’re traveling to from Malé, so keep that in mind as you select your resort and opt for a closer, affordable, Maldives resort, if available.

When is the most affordable and best time to visit Maldives?

Photo: Reethi Beach Resort

For the best prices on flights and resort stays, you should plan to book your trip to the Maldives during their low season, between May and early November, and avoid their peak season, between late November to February. Thankfully the Maldives is warm and sunny all year round so even during the low season, you can still expect temperatures in the 80’s. The rainy season is from May to October but the rain usually does not last for the whole day so there will still be plenty of time to enjoy the island.

Are there affordable Maldives beach resorts?

Photo: Coco Collection

I do want to mention that there are actually over 1000+ guest houses available to book on Airbnb that may offer some very affordable stays in the Maldives. But booking a resort will give you some additional luxuries that you might otherwise miss.

For example, as the Maldives is a Muslim country, you are not permitted to consume alcohol at all or wear revealing bikinis in public. Whereas on a private resort, you have access to full bars to enjoy your favorite piña colada, you can wear whatever swimwear you like. There are also additional luxuries, such as buffet dining with a large variety of foods to choose from, good WiFi, and free resort entertainment.

When booking an affordable luxury resort option in the Maldives, consider a couple of adjustments. If your heart is set on a five-star resort experience, try booking the beach villa instead of an overwater bungalow to save. You will still have the same access to amenities, pristine beaches, and turquoise blue waters you’ve been dreaming of, for a more pocket-friendly price tag.

At the boutique five-star hotel Coco Bodu Hithi for example, you can save as much as $4500 by choosing an island villa instead of their Coco Residence with a private pool overwater bungalow.

But if you are particularly keen to stay in an overwater bungalow, select a four-star resort over a five-star to save a considerable amount of money while still experiencing a luxury stay.

As an example, Reethi Beach Resort is a lovely four-star resort that has a beautiful overwater bungalow you can book for a six-night/seven-day stay, including airport transfers and daily breakfast buffets for two people, for about $3500 including taxes and fees. For another $1100 you can upgrade to an all-inclusive stay, which if you’re a big foodie, might help you save some additional money overall! A similar stay at the five-star Coco Bodu Hithi Resort starts at over $6000 and they do not offer an all-inclusive option.

How to save on resort bookings

Photo: Reethi Beach Resort

Traveling in the low season isn’t just a good way to save on flights, you can also find the best rates at resorts too. Additionally, check the resort’s site for deals and discounts on their nightly rates and vacation packages. They often list the best offers on their own website and if you find a cheaper offer somewhere else, try contacting the resort’s reservations service to see if they will honor it. You could also find yourself saving some money depending on the credit card you book with as some resorts, such as five-star boutique resort Coco Bodu Hithi, offer 10 percent off when booking on your Visa or your fourth night free when booking on your Mastercard.

And lastly, if you haven’t already, consider joining a resort’s loyalty program. Sometimes you can transfer loyalty points from your airline or credit card to the resort’s loyalty program to put towards the cost of your stay. Joining a resort’s loyalty program can also get you membership perks like free wifi, early check-in or late check-out, and complimentary room upgrades.

How to make Maldives beach activities affordable

Photo: Coco Collection

If you want to save some money on your luxury getaway, don’t get caught up by over-planning your trip with an excessive schedule of excursions and activities. You can just simply relax.

One of the main reasons to visit the Maldives is for the isolated tranquility, the impeccable beaches, and world-class snorkeling experiences, which are all free on arrival. You can pack a couple of snorkels and be on your merry way every morning or afternoon, exploring the vibrant coral reef which is home to some of the most diverse marine life in our seas. If you were to splurge a little, pick one incredibly memorable excursion, I recommend snorkeling with the whale sharks or giant manta rays, and let that be a highlight of your trip!

And additionally, you can expect your resort to have free entertainment options to keep you occupied and various complimentary or cheap activities available such as kayaking or paddle boarding if you want to get a little more active.

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