Matador Network's Blog, page 532
January 12, 2022
Turkmenistan’s infamous ‘Gates of Hell’ may finally close
In 1971, Soviet scientists looking for oil in the Karakum Desert of Turkmenistan accidentally created what became one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions and one of the world’s most bizarre places: The “Gates of Hell.”
While drilling for oil, they hit a large cavern filled with natural gas, causing the ground to collapse into a giant hole and the rig to fall inside. In the hope that the dangerous methane gas escaping from the pit they created would burn off quickly, the scientists set fire to it. It’s been over 50 years since, and the flaming crater is still very much burning.
Photo: Iwanami Photos/Shutterstock
But if the president of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, has anything to do with it, the end is near for the Gates of Hell (or, as Berdimuhamedow officially renamed the crater in 2018, the “Shining of Karakum”).
In a televised announcement on January 8, 2022, Berdimuhamedow instructed officials to find a solution to put out the fire, citing concerns for the environment, the health of the people living nearby, and the loss of an economic opportunity.
“We are losing valuable natural resources for which we could get significant profits and use them for improving the well-being of our people,” he said during his television appearance, the Associated Press reports.
Back in August 2019, when Berdimuhamedow was filmed doing donuts next to the gas crater in a rally car, he did not seem too bothered about its existence, but it’s clear he’s had a change of heart since then.
If you want to see The Gates of Hell in all of its 230-foot-wide, 65-foot-deep flaming glory, then it’s now or never. Just know that getting a visa to Turkmenistan is not a walk in the park, as the country has been called “the new North Korea of travel“. 
January 11, 2022
Diplo took to TikTok to expose what Tulum is really like these days
There’s a certain popular image of Tulum as a tranquil town on the Riviera Maya filled with influential young people, where gorgeous waters lap up close to groups doing yoga on the beach before they head to listen to music in the jungle.
Reality can be a touch different, as Diplo recently posted about on TikTok.
@diploAll walks of life here in Tulum
♬ Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes) – Edison Lighthouse
The description is short and sweet and touches on everything you need to know about the Tulum crowd these days: “All walks of life here in Tulum.”
Among the characters that Diplo calls out specifically:
An older couple ”visiting their daughter who refused to leave.”A man wearing a Pirates of the Caribbean mask who Diplo dubs “Davy Jones but in Tulum he’s Wavy Jones.”A guy in leopard-print pants who looks like Kendall Roy after a bender who is “on a crypto retreat.”Two women taking phone photos in the waves who Diplo predicts will post a pic in six months with the caption “take me back.”A man bare-knuckle punching a palm tree that Diplo simply captions with “Jesus Christ that’s Jason Borne.”Diplo isn’t the first to notice a change in a beach town once heralded as idyllic by seemingly everyone with the slightest bit of social capital. In early 2019, writer Reeves Wiedeman wrote a deep dive story titled “Who Killed Tulum? Greed, gringos, diesel, drugs, shamans, seaweed, and a disco ball in the jungle.” Wiedeman noted overt brutalist development, chain businesses, overtourism, drugs, and “too many DJs” as all parts of the problem. And of course the overbearing amount of foul-smelling seaweed crashing onto the shore and onto all of the new development since 2015.
And then there are the recent drug-cartel-fueled beach shootouts that have been happening in Tulum and the surrounding tourist zones with increasing frequency as gangs fill the tourist demand for drugs.
Tulum, in short, is far from the escape it was in years past. It’s been left behind by a subset of the jetset who now head to other wellness-focused destinations in Portugal and elsewhere in the Caribbean that can deliver what Tulum used to.
Of course, Tulum isn’t a monolith. There are still areas where the Tulum travelers of old can get away from the influencers and those who try to take enough vacation photos to be influencers for a moment. Some of the best Tulum getaways are the jungle-inspired hotels that have a tie to the land and feel somewhat like a living art gallery.
Just know that if you go and your experience is anything like Diplo’s, your nature may be interrupted by Wavy Jones.
Nashville Airbnbs for bachelorettes
If you’ve ever planned a bachelorette party, you know the process is a chore. But if Nashville is your destination – get excited. There are lots of good reasons it’s one of the country’s top spots for bachelorette weekends. Step one is finding an awesome themed Airbnb to call home for your wild Nashville party house weekend with the girls — and we’ve done the research for you.
Music City has a great range of listings that are not only affordable but have heaps of character. Finding a large house around the energetic downtown area, the more upscale area of The Gulch, the hip 12 South, and the historical Germantown is a must. Most of the listings below are either within these parts of town or a quick 10-15 minute ride away.
Here they are — Matador’s top picks for a fun, convenient, safe and comfortable weekend in the best Airbnbs in Nashville.
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, and listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.
1. Three-bedroom townhouse, ten minutes from downtown
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Located in the Trinity Corridor of East Nashville, this girly three-bedroom townhouse is ideal if you are wanting to be close to downtown attractions. That said, you don’t need to venture to Germantown or Broadway if you’d rather stay local, as this Airbnb’s street has lots of small bars and restaurants that are packed with character and live music. Its open-floor plan with a dining room, kitchen, large bar, and living room make this a perfect place for a bachelorette. The house has three bedrooms, two with ensuites, and there’s private parking in a secure garage for two vehicles. You can’t really beat this place for its location, but reviews also nod to the host’s attention to detail and helpful trip-planning tips.
Price: $111 per night
2. Four-bedroom new build home with rooftop deck
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This new build modern home sleeps nine and is also just a couple of miles from 12 South and a few from The Gulch and downtown. Although it’s a prime location, guest reviews rave about the residential locale, so you can enjoy a little peace and quiet when required. Its vaulted ceilings, natural light, and special little design and decor details make this a popular booking. French doors lead out to the balcony from the living room, an ideal place to sit out and have a few drinks in the evening.
Price: $135 per night
3. Modern mid-rise in downtown
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This downtown condo sleeps eight and has a pool, gym, and a gated parking garage. All of downtown’s bars, live music joints, and great restaurants are within walking distance, making this an ideal booking if your group wants to explore Nashville’s epic nightlife. This accommodation also has a balcony space with sweeping views over the city, and the pool area has a BBQ and public WiFi, so you can stream your country playlist while grilling with friends.
Price: $110 per night
4. Three bedroom house with 360-degree rooftop
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Situated in East Nashville, this three-bedroom house comfortably sleeps 10 guests. The house is spread over three stories, the highlight being the top floor. The rooftop patio comes with a wet bar and has lots of seating, but there are also two other outdoor areas, one with a dining table. East Nashville is one of the city’s hipper neighborhoods — being home to some of the best places to eat and drink in the city — but also Shelby Bottoms Park, a lovely green space for those who want some respite. The house comes with all modern amenities, smart TVs, a decked out kitchen, and self check-in.
Price: $139 per night
5. Four-bedroom modern home near 12 South
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This large and modern house is about as central as you can get in East Nashville. Located only two miles from downtown, Music Row, Vanderbilt University, Edgehill Village,12 South, and The Gulch, the house is an Uber ride away from the best of Nashville. Past guests rave about the host’s professionalism, thoughtful touches, and local advice. The kitchen is spacious and modern, and the living room is classic Nashville — down to the guitars on the wall.
Price: $572 per night
6. Fun, centrally located new constructionPhoto: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Sleeping 12 and situated in the heart of the city, this spacious home also has a rooftop patio with a grill and stunning views of Music City. Reviews note that this is a great place to book if you are looking for somewhere to stay with a group of friends, not only because of its centrality but also due to its spacious layout and fun amenities. Its colorful decor makes this listing stand out — with a neon “Nashville” sign being the perfect backdrop for an iconic holiday snap.
Price: $268 per night
7. Beautifully designed two-story house in downtown
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This Airbnb Plus listing is not somewhere you’d book if you have someone in your group who enjoys red wine — the decor is a stunningly crisp, clean white throughout. Guests even state that the photos of the interior don’t do this place justice. The three bedrooms come with stylish fittings and memory foam mattresses, and the kitchen and formal dining area is a perfect place for a nice sit-down dinner. If you are looking to party hard, this is not going to work, but if you want somewhere close to the action that is aesthetically beautiful and clean, this is a solid option.
Price: $129 per night
8. Luxury home with huge rooftop space
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This 11-bed listing’s main attribute is its huge private roof-deck with outdoor dining, large lounge area, and beautiful views over downtown. It’s a perfect space to book during the spring-summer months, but if you are traveling during the high-season, we recommend contacting the hosts and booking in advance. The house itself is open planned and has four bedrooms, a kitchen with a modern breakfast bar, a comfortable living room, and four chic, modern bathrooms.
Price: $152 per night
9. Home of local artist in East Nashville
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
If you want to experience vintage Nashville, this three-bedroom house is the property to book. The house’s interior is white with accents of leather, copper, and greenery from the well-placed indoor plants. It’s clear the owner of this booking has an eye for design as this is one of the more beautiful large houses you can book on Airbnb in the city. It would make an ideal place for a group who want to balance seeing the sights of Nashville with the security of having a lovely place to come home to at the end of the day.
Price: $114 per night
10. Instagram-worthy, four-bedroom colorful townhouse
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
From the banana-print scratch-and-sniff wallpaper to the bubble gum machine and retro arcade room, this Airbnb certainly stands out as being the brightest, most fun, and unforgettable of all the listings here. Its five — yes five — floors are packed with color and comfortably sleep 12 guests. This is one of 12 specially designed themed houses within a complex in the center of the city. Fashioned for groups and those who want to set their inner child free, this booking is noted as being ideal for bachelorettes.
Price: $158 per night
11. Country-chic townhouse a walk away from Broadway’s live music spots
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Another Airbnb Plus listing, this townhouse is a quick walk away from Broadway but is located in a quiet street. The living room is bright, with a corner sofa, dining table, and vintage design details. The open-planned kitchen is decked out with all the modern amenities a home cook would need and also has high windows allowing for ample natural light. The three bedrooms are luxurious and come with room-darkening shades — fitting for those who want to enjoy the best of Broadway’s live music scene until the early hours of the morning.
Price: $159 per night
More like thisWhere to Stay12 Airbnbs in Charleston for a bachelorette party filled with southern charmOzarks cuisine is a blend of the best of Midwest and Southern food
If you’ve ever been to the Ozarks, you probably went there deliberately since there are no interstate highways crossing the hilly region, no major airports. Only the Chippewa, Osage, and Cherokee tribes and the Anglo-Saxon folks of southern Appalachia (and the enslaved people they brought with them) migrating west in the 1830s had the hardiness and adventurous spirit to brave the perilous Ozark wilderness and survive there.
Early recipes that originated in the region were made of whatever could be grown, hunted, fished or foraged in the rocky soil of the wooded hills where some roads were still not paved as late as the 1920s. Raccoon, fox, beaver, and bear were hunted and trapped for their pelts but also turned into meals. Wild morels and chicken of the woods mushrooms flavored soups, blushing persimmons left on the trees after first frost sweetened pies, wild muscadines became jelly and wine, fuzzy blood-red sumac seeds sun-brewed into tart “lemonade” refreshed settlers in the hot and humid summers, and sassafras root shavings made a soothing tea year round. While you may not find any of these dishes on restaurant menus today (though they are still eaten in homes throughout the region) modern Ozarks cuisine descended from that nourishes the original settlers and still depend on the same basic ingredients: corn, local game and fish, woodland fruits and berries, and innovative resourcefulness.
If you decide to meander your way through the curving roads of the Ozark mountains, make sure to stop and try these five classic dishes.
1. Hot-water cornbread
Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock
Crumbled into a glass of milk (or buttermilk) as breakfast, served beside a steaming bowl of beans for lunch or dinner, or slathered with honeyed butter for dessert–cornbread is such a staple of the traditional Ozark meal there’s a yearly Arkansas Cornbread Festival in Little Rock Regional purists argue that cornbread doesn’t even need leavening agents like baking powder or soda–the corn meal is boiled in salted water–hence the name “hot water cornbread”–in a cast iron skillet before it is mixed with bacon grease and egg, formed into individual cakes and baked or fried.
Where to try it: T’s Place 3714 South Camden Road Pine Bluff, Arkansas 71603
2. Chicken-n-dumplings
AS Food studio/Shutterstock
Stock stews with biscuit-dough dumplings appear in American cookbooks as early as the 1800s, but chicken-n-dumplings as we know it today might have been invented when enslaved people began adding wiry chickens that required hours of boiling to tenderize the meat to their stew pots. The recipe was simple and mostly about the dumplings which could either be rolled out and cut or thrown into the boiling stock by the handful. Either way, the chicken was an afterthought. When John Tyson started raising chickens in Springdale, Arkansas during the Great Depression–choosing a meatier, breastier breed, he probably never imagined Tyson Foods would one day produce 25 percent of the chicken consumed in the US and make this dish an Ozarkian staple. Though modern versions elevate the dish with savory herbs, aromatics, root vegetables and celery, the traditional boiled chicken with homemade lumps of doughy dumplings will always be an Ozark favorite.
Where to try it: AQ Chicken House, 1207 North Thompson Street, Springdale, Arkansas 72764
3. Fried catfish
LMPark Photos/Shutterstock
The Ozarks are crisscrossed in rivers and streams, a landscape that makes for some good freshwater fishing–and eating. Bass, crappie, perch and trout land on dinner tables and restaurant fish fries throughout the region, but no fish tastes more like the Ozarks than catfish. There’s a special way to catch Ozark catfish: by standing in waders in clear, shallow freshwater streams or from the edge of a flat-bottom jon boat and using a technique called gigging – spearing the fish, rather than catching with a hook and line. Gigging has become a tradition at a two-day festival in Nixa, Missouri where the gigged fish are scored (so the hot oil will basically melt the overabundant bones), dredged in cornmeal, deep fried and served with fresh slaw and potato chips cooked in the same oil as the fish. The white meat is as delicate as trout but with an earthy bottomfeeder flavor.
Where to try it: Catfish Kettle, 775 Weber Road, Farmington, Missouri 63640
4. Vinegar pieIn the late 1800s and early 1900s, with the railroad boom, The Ozarks was one of the biggest apple-growing areas of the Midwest. While the mountain range runs wild with berries in the spring and summer, early Ozarkers added woodland spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves to boiled apples turning them into pies, cobblers and apple butter to sweeten their meals through the winter. Apples are used in another, perhaps surprising way in pies around this region: Apple cider vinegar substituted southern-grown lemons as the acidic additive in so-called desperation pies, like vinegar pie–eggs whipped with sugar or honey, nutmeg and some kind of fat, to make a sort of dairy-less custard. The apple cider vinegar replaced the tart lemons, which were either unavailable or too expensive to waste on a pie. Apples are no longer a major Ozarkian crop but vinegar pie is still a popular dessert.
Where to try it:, Bulrush, 3307 Washington Boulevard, Saint Louis, Missouri 63103
Elzbieta Sekowska/Shutterstock
No one’s sure how biscuits and chocolate gravy came to be an Ozarks classic. One theory involves a trade network connecting Spanish Louisiana with the Tennessee Valley, bringing Mexican chocolate to the Appalachian mountains. Leftover fat drippings were mixed with flour or cornmeal to make a roux, then cocoa powder and honey or sorghum added to it, thinned with water or milk and simmered to form a gravy poured over biscuits or flapjacks. However it got to the Ozarks, it’s such a classic it is still served at breakfast in school cafeterias. It’s at once earthy and sweet, buttery and delicious, and stick-to-your-ribs filling.
Where to try it: Wagon Wheel Restaurant, 166 South Broadview Street, Greenbrier, AR 72058
These are 2022’s most beautiful luxury hotels, according to Instagram
Any vacation stay has the potential to be a great one, but there’s nothing like luxury hotels. Five-star food, rooms, and service are among the best perks you get for the high price tags. Another perk is those beautiful Instagrammable photos that are sure to make your followers fall in love (and maybe envious) of your destination. Money.co.uk conducted a study that found the most beautiful five-star hotels worldwide using data from the highest ranking Instagram hashtags. In ascending order, here are the top 10 most luxurious hotels, according to Instagram.
We hope you love the luxurious hotels 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.
10. W Barcelona, Spain
Photo: W Barcelona
With 68,680 hashtags, it’s worth it to splurge on oceanfront rooms where you’ll wake up facing the Mediterranean sea. The W Barcelona is effortlessly chic, with its uniquely shaped structure with reflective windows making a cool background while you plant your feet in the sand.
Price: From $315 per night.
9. Niyama, MaldivesPhoto: Niyama
Photos look professional before you even edit them at the Niyama, which is why you’ll find 69,595 hashtags for this glorious destination. The crystal clear water and ocean waves on a private island create a tranquil paradise. The resort is family-friendly with one to three-bedroom villas and a kids club with activities like a rock-climbing wall and a decked-out playground.
Price: From $966 per night
8. The Ritz Paris, France
Photo: The Ritz Paris
Walking into the Ritz Paris transports you to old-school French renaissance with all the conveniences of present-day. It’s no wonder the property is mentioned in 74,864 hashtags. Explore rooms and suites aptly named after stars like Coco Chanel, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Marcel Proust that have a modern twist.
Price: From $1,362 per night
7. Claridge’s Hotel, London, England
Photo: Claridge’s Hotel
The Claridge’s Hotel photographs well because of its sophisticated European charm in a great location of London. The hotel rooms offer aesthetically pleasing furniture and marble bathrooms that will make your followers envious — hence the 76,555 hashtags. Be sure to set aside time when you’re not exploring London to return to the hotel for afternoon tea, which offers over 50 different types of tea paired with classic pastries.
Price: From $747 per night
6. Halekulani Hotel, Honolulu, Hawaii
Photo: Halekulani Hotel
Comb through the 93,179 hashtags for the Halekulani Hotel on Waikiki Beach for picturesque sunsets overlooking gorgeous clear water. The hotel staff are known for their hospitality with touches like fresh fruit and chocolate on arrival while you take in the island-inspired rooms complete with luxurious en-suite bathrooms and deep-soaking tubs.
Price: From $705 per night
5. The Beverly Hills Hotel, Los Angeles, California
Photo: Beverly Hills Hotel
Find 127,297 hashtags for The Beverly Hills Hotel that adds the perfect pop of color to your feed. Known for its title as “The Pink Palace,” it is an Instagram dream, granting the Hollywood experience to its famous guests and to you. Enjoy California weather by the pool under a private cabana, take to the streets for some Beverly Hills shopping, and return to your modern hotel suite.
Price: From $975 per night
4. The Plaza, New York, New York
Photo: The Plaza Hotel
The Plaza New York grants you the convenience of staying in the heart of Manhattan, with 160,237 hashtags as proof that it photographs well due to its proximity to Central Park and its crisp, clean, white aesthetic and gold accents. Steps away, you’ll find the best of 5th Avenue shops — Bergdorf Goodman, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and of course, Saks Fifth Avenue. Enjoy spacious rooms equipped with in-room iPads and 24-karat gold plated bathroom fixtures. You’ll experience New York like never before.
Price: From $804 per night
3. Bellagio, Los Vegas, Nevada
Photo: Bellagio
It makes sense that the world-famous Bellagio has racked up 161,088 hashtags. There are plenty of choices when you want to stay on the Las Vegas strip, yet the Bellagio stands out as the background of the famed Fountains of Bellagio. You might become overwhelmed with all there is to do. Shop at the boutique stores, try your hand in the casino, or explore the outdoor pools and botanical gardens, all without ever leaving your hotel.
Price: From $263 per night
2. Soneva Jani, Maldives
Photo: Soneva Jani
The Soneva Jani takes silver with a whopping 415,461 hashtags. While the Maldives is already a must-see destination, Soneva Jani takes it to a whole different level. The island has both island and over-water villa with open-air bathrooms and lagoon access. But every over-water villa has its own stretch of lagoon, private pool, and retractable roof for sky-views in the master bedroom. Go over the top and book a room with a slide attached for amazing videos that’ll capture every moment. When you’re not in your room, enjoy world-renowned dining, an observatory, spa, overwater silent cinema, labyrinth gardens, and more.
Price: From $3600 per night
1. Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Photo: evenfh/Shutterstock
`Nobody does luxury like Dubai, making it no surprise that the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah has 2,428,501 hashtags, deemed the most luxurious hotel by a landslide. The hotel’s exterior alone makes for the perfect picture on this private island with picturesque views of the Persian Gulf from its suites. Arrive in style in a chauffeured Rolls-Royce or by helicopter. Enjoy a modern, colorful suite, then head to the Sky View Bar, suspended 656 feet above sea level. Enjoy the Talise Spa that boasts indoor infinity pools, hot tub and treatment rooms overlooking the Arabian Gulf, and exclusive access to the Summersalt Beach Club and private beach. A five-minute walk, and you’ll arrive at the Wild Wadi Waterpark for unlimited fun.
Price: From $2,341 per night
Other hotels that made the list include:
Hotel Villa Cimbrone in Ravello, Italy with 61,191 hashtagsPalace Hotel Tokyo in Japan with 59,738 hashtagsExcellence El Carmen in the Dominican Republic with 5,889 hashtagsCeltic Manor Resort in Newport, Wales with 54,795 hashtagsLa Mamounia in Marrakesh, Morocco with 52,152 hashtagsThe Dorchester in London, England with 44,454 hashtagsPalazzo Versace Dubai in the United Arab Emirates with 43,615 hashtagsPalazzo Versace in Gold Coast, Australia with 43,015 hashtagsThe Savoy in London, England with 41,787 hashtags1 Hotel South Beach in Miami, Florida with 39,508 hashtagsWould you pay five-star prices for these Instagrammable destinations?
These ski resorts step up their lodging by sizing down to tiny homes
SKI RESORTS the world over are known for rustic, chalet-style lodging. The rustic mountain aesthetic happens to pair perfectly with minimalism and fortunately, a few enterprising ski areas are taking notice. Led by a small ski resort in western Colorado, tiny homes are beginning to pop up adjacent or nearby to a few resorts across the country. Check into one of these ski resort tiny homes the next time you visit these three ski areas below.
We hope you love the ski resort tiny homes we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.
300 Lakes Village at Powderhorn Mountain Resort, Colorado
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Powderhorn Mountain Resort is Colorado’s most underrated ski area. Located on the Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flat-topped mountain, it’s smaller than the mega-resorts along Interstate 70 — which means less crowding, more open terrain, and shorter (often non-existent) lift lines. Lodging options include the standard mountain resort condos, but the coolest place to stay here is its’ tiny home village. The Tiny Homes at Powderhorn Mountain Resort feature a cluster of unique tiny homes centered around a central fire pit area. The lodgings are cozy and warm, each with a bathroom and kitchenette. Upstairs loft areas accommodate kiddos or friends who don’t mind sharing a sleeping space. Each home comfortably sleeps four, with the larger options accommodating up to eight.
Some have porch lounge areas, but even those that don’t are perfect for apres ski action with a communal vibe at the fire pit. The resort’s popular Umbrella Bar restaurant is right next to the village. The ski resort’s day lodge and restaurant are right there also. The best part? In the morning, the Flat Top Flyer lift is about 100 steps from your door – guaranteeing you a shot at first chair. The town of Palisade, known for wineries, orchards, and mountain biking, is about 30 minutes from the ski area.
Price: From $176 per night
Mt. Hood Village, Oregon
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
This is a village of tiny homes near Mount Hood Meadows, Mount Hood Skibowl, and Timberline Lodge and Ski Area that offers easy access to and from Portland and the ski areas. Located just off US Highway 26, the Mount Hood Highway, the homes are cozy and quiet. Each is named based on its character – you may find a stay in Atticus, designed in the manner of a rustic ski cabin, to be the most appropriate for your group of three. Or perhaps the “farm house charm” of Scarlett piques your interest. Zoe’s small-town charm or Lincon’s stoic yet rustic facade may call to you in its own way.
No matter which you choose, you’ll post up amongst a small community of travelers here to take advantage of the slopes and trails. Post-adventure barbecues and happy hour sessions happen on the daily. A pool, hot tub, and general store are located onsite. Amenities including restaurants and more thorough shoping are right up the street in Welches and Mt. Hood Village. Each tiny home books individually via Booking.com.
Price: From $135 per night
Sugarbush Resort, Vermont
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
At the base of Sugarbush Resort and Mount Ellen is this cozy, ski-in/ski-out tiny home. The home features a small kitchen with a one-burner stove, convection oven, and dishwasher. Outside, take advantage of the barbecue and lounge area. What really stands out about this property, however, is its remoteness – despite being near the base of one of Vermont’s top ski resorts, you’re surrounded by over three acres of wooded forest.
Access the tiny home via the Lower FIS or Snowflake trails. You’ll also have easy access to the ski areas’ base lodges and amenities. Montpelier, Vermont’s capital city, is just over 30 minutes’ drive. Unfurl the pull-out sofa for additional guests. The tiny home comes with a gear storage shed for your skis.
Price: $125 per night
More like thisWhere to Stay7 family-friendly holiday Airbnbs in the Pacific NorthwestJanuary 10, 2022
Horrifying video shows cliff collapse onto tourists on Brazil’s Furnas Lake
The cliff face of Lake Furnas in Brazil collapsed on Saturday, January 8, hitting four boats filled with tourists. Videos posted on social media show the moment the massive rock fragment fell.
Six people were initially reported dead, but that number has gone up to 10. Additionally, more than 30 people were injured, including some who had to be hospitalized. All victims were Brazilian and between 14 and 68 years old, according to CBS.
Lake Furnas was formed by a hydroelectric dam in 1958, and it’s since become a tourist destination due to its cliffs, caves, and waterfalls. Nearby Capitolio only has about 8,400 residents but draws some 5,000 tourists on weekends and 30,000 on holidays.
URGENTE
Rocha desaba sobre banhistas em #EscarpasdoLago (MG)
Confira: https://t.co/xPnulAgs0E #R7Minas pic.twitter.com/zZukQA1cww
— Record TV Minas (@recordtvminas) January 8, 2022
One woman who was there, Andréia Mendonça, reportedly told her boat captain that she noticed pebbles falling into the water, according to the New York Post. The cliff face collapsed shortly after. The boat Mendonça was on made it to safety.
Divers and helicopters from the local fire department assisted in the early rescue effort.
“We are suffering the pain of a tragedy in our state due to heavy rains, which caused the loosening of a wall of stones in Lake Furnas, in Capitolio,” the governor of Minas Gerais, Romeu Zema, posted on social media. “I stand in solidarity with the families at this difficult time.”
This rainy season has been particularly hard. More than 17,000 people have been forced to evacuate due to heavy rains over recent weeks, USA Today reports. The US Agency for International Development has sent more than $130 million in aid to people in the state of Bahia directly north of Minas Gerais.
Tiago Antonelli, head of the Applied Geology Division of the Brazilian Geological Service, told the Associated Press that natural causes caused the collapse.
“It’s normal to happen in many canyons, even with rocks of that size,” Antonelli said. “But nowadays, with the intensification of tourism, people are starting to get closer to these places and to register these phenomena with their cell phones.”
Reports note that falls from natural erosion are more likely in December and January, the region’s rainy months. Risk analysis studies weren’t conducted on the rock wall, but Capitolio Mayor Cristiano Geraldo da Silva told the press that it’s needed from now on.
Saudi Arabia tourist visa and sights
In 2019, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia officially opened its doors to international travelers, issuing tourist visas to nationals of 49 countries for the first time in history. Previously, only those traveling to Saudi Arabia for work or Muslim pilgrims were permitted to enter the country. Now, citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China, many European nations, and more can obtain an e-visa to travel to Saudi Arabia.
How to get a visa to visit Saudi ArabiaThe e-visa application process can be completed in a matter of minutes online. Tourist visas will cost eligible travelers about 125 USD, including an 80 USD base fee, a 40 USD mandatory health insurance fee, and additional smaller fees for taxes and payment processing. Once obtained, the visa is good for one year from the date of inssuance, allowing multiple entries and up to three months of travel in Saudi Arabia.
It’s possible for nationals from outside the 49 eligible countries to get a tourist visa as well, though they’ll need to apply in person at a Saudi consulate and provide additional information like proof of a round-trip ticket, accommodation while in Saudi Arabia, proof of employment, and a bank statement to prove financial stability.
No matter their country of origin, non-Muslim travelers are still prohibited from entering Mecca and Medina.
Although the two holiest cities in Islam are off limits to non-pilgrims, Saudi Arabia is filled with landscapes and landmarks that any traveler would be lucky to see in person — and many now can. Here are nine of the best.
The best places to see for travelers to Saudi Arabia1. Edge of the World — outside Riyadh
Photo: Photos by Ava Kabouchy/Shutterstock
Approximately 60 miles north of Riyadh lies the stunning Edge of the World rock formation and its spectacular views. Budget two hours for the drive there, two hours to hike to the actual rock formation site, and then another two hours to return to Riyadh. A lot of walking and hiking is required, so be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and ample gear to stay cool in the sun. Additionally, know that a ranger shuts the gate to the Acacia Valley at the end of the day, so unless you want to be stuck in the valley overnight, you’ll want to make your way out by closing time. Private tours can also be arranged by travel agencies.
2. Kingdom Centre Tower Sky Bridge — Riyadh
Photo: Fedor Selivanov/Shutterstock
If there is one building that distinguishes Riyadh’s skylines from other cities around the world, it’s the Kingdom Center Tower — the one with the semi-circle-shaped hole near the top. The Sky Bridge, open daily from 9:30 AM to 11 PM and on Fridays from 4:30 PM to 11 PM, is the tippy-top of the tower looking down on the desert capital. For about $18, you’ll speed up two elevators to the top of Riyadh’s most famous landmark. For the best views of the entire city, go a little before sunset to catch daytime colors and night lights. The first three floors of the building consist of a shopping mall. You can find the entrance to the Sky Bridge on the second floor.
3. Al-Ahsa Oasis — Eastern Province
Photo: Saudi Tourism
The Al-Ahsa Oasis is one of the largest desert oases in the world, thanks to its millions of date palms. The grounds include gardens, archaeological sites, old fortresses, canals, mosques, and other ruins from the Neolithic period to the present. The diversity of rock formations and water systems is complemented by the oldest port in the world, Al-Uqair, and the breathtaking Al-Shu’ba Mountain. The Al-Ahsa Oasis was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2018.
4. National Museum — Riyadh
Photo: Crystal Eye Studio/Shutterstock
Easily the most renowned museum in the Kingdom, the National Museum is ideal for a rainy day or anytime you are looking to escape the dry heat if you’re visiting outside of winter. Displays and installations incorporate the latest technology, and all descriptions are presented in both Arabic and English. Exhibitions revolve around the Arabian Kingdoms, including the pre-Islamic era, The Hajj, the Two Holy Mosques, the Unification of Saudi Arabia, etc. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better collection of Saudi artifacts anywhere else.
5. Mada’in Saleh — Al-Ula
Photo: Gimas/Shutterstock
Often referred to as the “Petra of Saudi Arabia,” Mada’in Saleh is a 2,000-year-old site comprised of monuments carved in sandstone rocks. Amazing old forts, ruins, and tombs speckle this area of the Arabian Desert. This archaeological wonder and desert city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site and for this reason has been attracting an increasing number of visitors, with even more as KSA’s tourist visa system opens up.
6. King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture — Dharan
Photo: Chris worldwide/Shutterstock
Located next to the larger city of Dammam, Dharan accommodates a world-class center of culture. Saudi Aramco, the country’s massive oil company, runs the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, which was completed in 2016 and subsequently made Time Magazine’s list of the World’s 100 Greatest Places in 2018. The center, designed by Norwegian architectural firm Snohetta, holds a library of some 200,000 books, an auditorium, beautiful exhibitions, a museum, and movie theater.
7. Al Wahba Crater — Medina Region
Photo: mohamed hashif/Shutterstock
One of the largest volcanic craters on Earth, Al Wahba also features a large salt field near its center that you can hike to. Contrary to the surrounding desert landscape, the crater is home to shrubbery and other plants. Al Wahba is an incredibly unique site to visit, hike around, and even camp at, especially with the recent construction of more roads and access points. Despite these recent developments, ensure that you take proper gear like extra water, hiking boots, and sun protection to withstand the elements. It should take you around 45-60 minutes to reach the bottom of the crater, and due to the crater’s slippery surface, going back up may take even longer.
8. Scuba diving the Red Sea — Jeddah
Photo: blue-sea.cz/Shutterstock
Saudi Arabia is home to the longest coastline of the Red Sea and is famous for its colorful coral reefs, World War II shipwrecks, and biodiversity. Although year-round diving is possible, the best time of year to go is November to January when visibility is better and there’s an increased likelihood of seeing sharks and dolphins. Many scuba agencies and dive shops offer certification and tours with tons based out of Jeddah.
9. Al-Tayebat International City — Jeddah
Photo: Gimas/Shutterstock
This impressive, sprawling complex with ornate minarets, Moorish wood carvings, and winding passageways is a must-see when in Saudi Arabia. Inside the gates, visitors can find the Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum of Jeddah detailing the city’s history. Small shops and kiosks sell crafts and souvenirs, and you can try some of the local cuisine as you wander outside. Check the Al-Tayebat website (use Google translate as the site is only in Arabic) before you go as there are specific opening hours for single men and families (including single women), and these may vary with the weather. While in Jeddah, check out the beautiful traditional buildings of the UNESCO-listed old town.
A version of this article was previously published on February 20, 2019, and was updated on January 10, 2022.
More like thisNewsWatch: YouTuber finishes 197-country world tour in Saudi Arabia, and it’s nothing like you imagineVandals permanently damaged some of North America’s oldest surviving rock art
Rock art created thousands of years ago was defaced in Big Bend National Park just after Christmas.
According to a news release by the National Park Service, the act of vandalism took place on December 26, 2021, in the Indian Head section of the park. The rock art was “irreparably damaged” by people who scratched their names and the date of their visit on the piece. The writing reads “Isaac + Ariel 12-26-21” as well as “Norma Adrian 2021” across the prehistoric art.
Photo: Big Bend National Park
Rock art, also known as petroglyphs, are images carved into a rock. The top layer of the rock is pecked or scratched to reveal a color contrast to create forms and figures. Petroglyphs can be found throughout the United States in a variety of styles.
The vandalized rock art is believed to date between 3,000 and 8,000 years ago, according to the New York Times, making the art one of the oldest examples of petroglyphs in North America.
Big Bend National park is looking for those responsible, a search made easy by the fact that the perpetrators scratched their names and the date of their visit. This act of vandalism breaks the Archaeological Resources Protection Act and can lead to up to a $5,000 fine and up to six months imprisonment.
“Big Bend National Park belongs to all of us,” Big Bend National Park superintendent Bob Krumenaker said in the press release. “Damaging natural features and rock art destroys the very beauty and history that the American people want to protect in our parks. With each instance of vandalism, part of our Nation’s heritage is lost forever.”
Well-meaning visitors attempted to clean up the mess left by the vandals by rubbing water on the piece, but only made it worse, Texas Monthly reports.
“If you discover vandalized rock art, please don’t attempt to clean it yourself,” the press release explains. “Trained staff will attempt to mitigate the damage as quickly as possible, using highly specialized techniques.”
Thankfully, with specialized equipment and a lot of time and effort, professional archeologists managed to remove some of the marks, but part of the damage is permanent.
Examples of such vandalism in US national parks are unfortunately not rare. In August 2020, large blue squares were painted on sandstone in Zion National Park, and in October 2020, people cut down eight saguaro cacti in Saguaro National Park.
How to make the most of your day at New York City’s Museum of Sex
Sex is the one and only way to perpetuate the existence of the human species and, whether we like it or not, it’s part of everyone life in a variety of ways. To break taboos associated with sex and bring sexuality into a positive light, David Gluck opened the Museum of Sex in New York City in 2002. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the full history of human sexuality, as well as its evolution and cultural significance. Whether you’re shy but curious or well-versed in the art of passion, the Museum of Sex in New York City is an eye-opening and fun experience for all.
The best times to visit the Museum of SexWhere to start your visit at the Museum of SexHow long should I budget to visit the Museum of Sex?A breakdown of the Museum of Sex’s first halfA breakdown of the Museum of Sex’s second half: Super FunlandTickets and hours of operation for NYC’s Museum of SexThe best times to visit the Museum of SexEntry to the Museum of Sex is timed to control crowd sizes so there’s no real difference in what time and date you pick. However, the museum does charge $3 more on weekends. The ticket website also lists certain times as “peak,” meaning that those are popular times. Peak times include all day on weekends, and the late afternoon and evening on weekdays. If the place being really empty matters, then going early or mid-afternoon on a weekday is your best bet.
Where to start your visit at the Museum of Sex?
Photo: Author
The museum is four floors in total, but there are two sides to it. The first side consists of the typical museum experience with galleries, artifacts, and lots of reading. The second side is called Super Funland and is billed as an erotic carnival with interactive elements like games and rides.
Visitors will have to go through the first side before they can venture into the second, but it’s better that way. You’ll learn first and then be able to play armed with that knowledge. The best way to experience each side is to go in the pre-labeled order. Start on the second floor and continue going up and exploring each floor. Once you’ve reached the top of the first side, cross over to the entrance of Super Funland. After that, make your way down floor by floor.
How long should I budget to visit the Museum of Sex?The amount of time you should allot is dependent on how much you want to read. The first side of the museum provides a lot in terms of visuals, but they’re all accompanied by small plaque cards with information. We highly recommend taking the time to go through and read everything so you leave having learned something new and perhaps gained a different perspective on sex. If you do that and take part in everything at Super Funland, the whole experience should take around two hours.
A breakdown of the Museum of Sex’s first halfArtifact [xxx]: Selection from Secret Collections
Photo: Author
The first gallery visitors will encounter is a collection of objects that tell the history of sex and its relevancy through various cultures, revealing narratives and other surprising facts that people wouldn’t normally know. For example, chastity belts were never actually used in medieval times but now serve as an option for BDSM play.
Dominating the center of the room is a replica of a contraption used by King Edward VII to have sex in different ways with multiple people all the while putting in minimal effort himself. Other objects featured range from gynecological tools to sex toys.
Reclaiming & Making: Art, Desire, Violence
Photo: Author
The third floor features an exhibition dedicated to addressing sexual violence. As sex and violence share a complex history, the museum aims to spark dialogue and promote a safer, more liberated sexual culture. It asks visitors to “bear witness both to the reality and history of sexual trauma, and to the resiliency, agency, and healing power that survivors of such trauma manifest.” To this end, many of the information cards have italicized questions addressed to museum-goers to provoke introspective thought.
The works on display are from fourteen international artists, all of whom have experienced sexual violence. They range from photos of protests to abstract portraits to video interviews. One of the most powerful works from this exhibition is the series of silhouetted portraits by Aida Silvestri. As a survivor of female gential mutilation (FGM) herself, Silvestri interviewed other survivors and then created potraits that depict the types of FGM they experienced. Accompanying each portrait is what Silvestri calls ‘poems’ of the women’s stories.
Porno Chic to Sex Positivity
Photo: author
Sex has made its way, subtly or otherwise, into most forms of media we consume, and the museum takes a deeper look at how in the last exhibit. “Porno Chic to Sex Positivty” follows the history of pornography in fine art, advertising, films, and music through the use of media from the 1960s to the present day. The exhibit is divided into four sections: “A Pornographic Avante-Garde”; “Sexualized Marketing”; “Scandalous Scenes of Cinema”; and “Music: an Erotic Form.” You’ll see everything from famous cologne ads to scenes from Fifty Shades of Grey.
A breakdown of the Museum of Sex’s second half: Super FunlandSuper Funland: Journey into the Erotic Carnival
Photo: author
A hallway of carnival dioramas leads to a theater room where all are asked to watch a seven-minute film about the sexual history of the carnival. The film traces the bacchanalian origins of the carnival from ancient civilizations to the 20th century.
After the visioning, visitors head down to the third floor, Lucky Land. This is where you can play a number of games, such as the Love & Lust Deity Derby which is similar to a balloon blast game where you shoot water and something behind the target moves, racing against other participants. There are claw games, a RuPaul-led fortune telling machine, and a 4D-ride into the tunnel of love. Lucky Land is also home to a breast-themed bouncy castle.
The second floor, the Pink Palace, is aptly named as almost everything is in shades of pink, red, or purple. The attractions here are a slide that goes from the second to first floors, a biometric makeout challenge (which is now altered to measure holding hands), a whack-a-mole type game, and a mechanical bull ride.
The last floor, the Lollipop Lounge, is home to the carnival bar and concession stand. At the moment it’s closed due to COVID-19 precautions, but on a regular day you can chill out there with a drink or snack in hand. The lounge has a pole star dance stage where you can pose and take fun photos to music.
Tickets and hours of operation for NYC’s Museum of SexThe Museum of Sex is open every day of the week with varying hours. From Monday to Thursday, it’s open from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM. On Fridays, it’s open from 1:00 PM to 12:00 AM. Saturday’s hours are 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM and Sunday’s are 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM. For days that close at 10:00 PM, the last entry is at 8:40 PM while 12:00 AM closers have their last entry at 10:00 PM.
Visitors have to be 18 or older to enter the museum (ID will be checked) and there’s no discount pricing for students. Generally tickets will cost anywhere between $60 to $65 depending on entry time, but the museum has had tickets on sale for $36 to $39. It’s recommended to buy tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time and date, but tickets are also sold on site.
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