Matador Network's Blog, page 536

January 2, 2022

How to travel sustainably

THE COP26 cLIMATE CONFERENCE, which took place in October and November of 2021, brought the world’s attention to the climate crisis. Climate activist Greta Thunberg, TIME’s 2019 Person of the Year, and Emma Watson were two of many celebrity voices in Glasgow, Scotland, for the event. Their presence along with the voices of environmental organizations and everyday citizens the world over likely made a bigger impact than the governments themselves.

This shows how important it is to stand up for our planet. Of course, it’s impossible to advocate for something you don’t feel connected to. This is why travel is among the best ways to save the planet — empathy comes from understanding, and understanding comes from experience. Traveling in a responsible manner, including following current COVID-19 protocols, is important and possible in 2022.

In Thunberg’s home country flysgskam, or flight shame, has changed not just attitudes but the practices of travel-loving Swedes. But while flying has an undeniable carbon footprint, travel can in fact be beneficial to the environment. Paradoxically, the right kind of travel — thoughtfully planned and executed and, at times, requiring long distance flights — can help combat the warming of our planet.

The biggest carbon emitters Deforestation

Photo: Frontpage/Shutterstock

Flights produce a lot of emissions. This is undeniably true. According to Statista, an estimated 4.6 billion seats will be filled on commercial planes in 2019, emitting over 918 million metric tons of carbon dioxide. However, the emissions from air travel account for only 2.4 percent of total fossil fuel emissions globally, and they fall far behind both automobiles and agriculture.

According to a UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report, global livestock production is responsible for over 14 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. That is equivalent to emissions from all of the transportation on the planet — cars, trains, ships, and planes — altogether.

At the same time, we know that forests are vital to absorbing carbon, with tropical forests being the biggest carbon absorbers of all. Yet these tropical forests are under threat and in some parts of the world that threat comes directly from cattle ranching. The loss of carbon-absorbing vegetation to greenhouse-gas-producing livestock is a double blow to the planet. Add in habitat destruction, species loss, and the threat to indigenous communities, and the impact is that much more destructive.

Other threats to the world’s natural lands come from mining and extractive industries. In each of these cases, you, the traveler, can play a positive role. Matador Network spoke to multiple people working in the areas of sustainability and sustainable travel, and all told us that travelers can have a positive role to play in preventing this habitat destruction.

Tourism as an economic asset hikers

Photo: Larissa Chilanti/Shutterstock

Dan Sawyer is a senior advisor to the Institute for Society, Population, and Nature, a Brazilian NGO focused on preserving the livelihood of local communities threatened by development; in many cases, by the loss of their land to ranching. It’s estimated that 91 percent of destroyed Amazonian land has gone to livestock, with a similar pattern taking place in Brazil’s Cerrado area south of the Amazon.

“What we are trying to do at our institute is promote sustainable livelihood for these communities so they can stay on the land,” Sawyer says. Not only can tourism money offer an alternative to communities that would otherwise feel economically pressured to sell their land to cattle ranchers, but visits to these beautiful, wild areas also increases their visibility.

“It’s one thing if you go to Rio to see the beaches,” says Sawyer. “But visiting places in the interior may be a way of increasing consciousness about places that aren’t well known.”

Peter Knights, CEO of WildAid, which works to end the illegal trade in wildlife, says that tourism is an essential part of the effort to preserve many of the world’s wild areas. “Tourism gives nature a value,” he says.

Of course, Knights explains, we understand that nature has an intrinsic worth and is important to wider ecosystems, but sometimes poorer countries don’t have the “luxury” of protecting natural resources for their own sake. The money earned from tourism allows poor countries to justify spending their limited resources to preserve natural lands.

“Tourism is an asset, and it’s an asset that’s increasing,” in these countries, says Knights. “Extraction degrades that asset.”

Photo: Tetyana Dotsenko/Shutterstock

Knights holds up Rwanda as the best model of conservation in Africa. There, citizen-led conservation efforts have helped Rwanda nearly double its tourism rate in the past decade, with adventure travelers opening their wallets and giving the government and local residents added ammunition to take on the fight against poachers and developers.

Tourist visits doubled in 10 years to 1.5 million in 2017, with increased global interest in visiting — and protecting — the country’s lush rainforests, the growing art scene in its capital, Kigali, and its gorilla conservation efforts.

In Akagera National Park, nearly destroyed during the country’s civil war between 1990 and 1994, conservation efforts that reduce wildlife poaching and increase habitat — under the development of a group called African Parks and the Rwanda Development Board — are financed partly by visitor dollars. The park saw 44,000 visitors in 2018, up from 15,000 in 2010, according to a report in National Geographic.

The dollars these tourists bring go even further than the boundaries of the park. Part of the $2.2 million in tourist revenue the park generated last year has gone to education and health care services in the surrounding communities.

Local awareness and national pride Bartolome Island

Photo: Maggiori Images/Shutterstock

Travel plays such a vital role in conservation that WildAid actively encourages it. Knights says that while sending a check to a conservation group is valuable, traveling to the threatened area shows governments that it is of value. In Zimbabwe, WildAid has also launched a campaign to encourage locals to visit their own national parks.

This is a way to promote a greater appreciation of their natural treasures and the desire to protect them. While local visitors pay a reduced rate to visit parks, their visits may support lodging options that are not only at the luxury level, can occur in seasons that see fewer international travelers, and — just like international visits — fuel local jobs.

“It’s a matter of national pride to have a national park that is admired by the rest of the world” says Knights. “Parks are the flagships to get people in.” After visiting the Galapagos, for example, travelers may tour Ecuador’s mainland and some of its other natural treasures.

Promoting natural lands at home Colorado Monument

Photo: welcomia/Shutterstock

You don’t need to travel to South America or Africa to make a positive impact on the environment. In the United States, outdoor-related tourism can also provide a viable economic alternative to extractive industries like logging, mining, and oil and gas exploration.

While you may have to hop on a plane to go skiing in Utah, your presence becomes a voice for conservation. When people come to town, they spend money to experience the outdoors through activities such as guided bike rides and hikes, boat rentals, and camping permits. This money encourages conservation efforts and the protection of public lands.

According to Cilia Kohn, director of marketing and communications with the nonprofit Grand Junction Economic Partnership, this evolution is happening full-bore in the former oil and gas hub of Grand Junction, Colorado.

“Interestingly, after the energy bust of the 1980s, many fabricators and other suppliers in the Grand Valley were able to adapt their business models to support outdoor recreation manufacturers with the same skill set, techniques, and materials that had previously supported the energy industry,” Kohn told Matador via email.

Making good travel choices Airplane

Photo: motive56/Shutterstock

By visiting biodiverse places under attack from governments and industry, we show those same people who want to mine, log, or develop biodiverse habitats that the land is economically viable through protection, not alteration.

But we must also acknowledge the risks of excess tourism and travel in an environmentally positive way. Successful tourism depends on the visitor’s desire to be a good steward of the places they visit.

“If you’re interested in being a responsible traveler, next time you’re planning, you should do some serious research on the places you’ll visit and the companies you’ll hire,” says Saúl Blanco Sosa, Sustainable Tourism Services Manager at NEPCon, which focuses on sustainable land use and solutions that help people and tackle climate change. You should look into whether operators are locally-owned businesses and whether the money earned stays in-country.

Moreover, the tenets of zero-waste travel — leaving no trace and taking nothing but photos — are of the utmost importance in protected spaces. Respect wildlife boundaries and local people, particularly indigenous groups. Organizations like Deeper Africa and Sumak Travel offer philanthropic-based tours that involve local communities and the people who live there, making it easier for you as a visitor to be socially conscious.

The bigger picture Planting

Photo: Janelle Lugge/Shutterstock

There’s still the matter of your carbon emissions when you do fly. If you’re an infrequent traveler, keep in mind your flying habits are nothing compared to those who fly multiple times per week for work, or worse, those who fly private. But there are still a few things you can do to offset your emissions.

The biggest step individual flyers can take is to donate to a carbon offset program. Most major airlines offer them and allow you to contribute when purchasing your ticket. If not, several options such as Carbon Fund exist for general offset donations.

The cost is generally between $3 and $15, depending on how far you’re flying and which carbon calculator you use. The “offset” happens when these dollars are used to pull carbon out of the atmosphere or reduce its use, be that by planting trees or investment in a renewable energy project.

Additionally, a United Nations initiative called the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation actually requires airlines operating internationally to offset added carbon production, though this doesn’t kick in until 2021.

So yes, we must acknowledge the emissions that travel creates and the impact visitors have on the places they visit. And yes, travelers should consider taking trains, busses, and boats if they have the time and resources to do so. But all travelers really need, more than being shamed for wanting to experience this vast and beautiful planet we live on, is a dose of mindfulness.

For every inch of change and growth that travel brings to the places that need it, the growth happens to the visitor as well. As Ken Chi Hou Lee, a spokesperson with the Macao Government Tourism Office, puts it, “When you travel, you see how small you are. You see that what happens outside of your country also matters.”

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Published on January 02, 2022 12:00

December 31, 2021

Museum artifacts that were sent back to their original countries in 2021

Antiquities are vital to modern society. They provide insight into human history and, when shared with the public, create inroads to learning about world cultures. But the antiquities trade is rife with controversy. Colonizers, looters, and smugglers have long stolen valuable artifacts from their homelands and scattered them across the globe with no regard for their provenance. Increasingly, who now owns and displays these works is the subject of much debate.

Just this month, an American billionaire was forced to surrender $70 million worth of plundered antiquities following a four-year investigation by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. Museums have come under as much fire as private collectors. In October, the UNESCO Advisory Board compelled the British Museum to restitute Greece’s Parthenon Marbles. That same month, the Amsterdam Court of Appeal ruled in favor of returning Crimean artifacts held at the Dutch capital’s Allard Pierson Museum to Ukraine, a decision that’s been complicated by the Russian Federation’s occupation of Crimea. A potential appeal to the Supreme Court is pending.

A spate of museums and institutions across Europe and North America have since repatriated a number of antiquities from their collections. They’re not the first. In 1998, the Glasgow Museum restituted a Ghost Dance Shirt to the Lakota Sioux community in South Dakota. Yet with a newfound fervor surrounding the issue, the restitution trend escalated significantly in 2021. The following repatriation successes were among the most newsworthy this year.

The Brooklyn Museum surrenders more than 1,000 pre-Hispanic artifacts Repatriated artifacts 2021_Museo Nacional Costa Rica

Photo: Museo Nacional Costa Rica/Facebook

In July, New York City’s Brooklyn Museum turned over 1,305 pre-Hispanic artifacts to the Museo Nacional de Costa Rica in San José, marking the museum’s second repatriation effort involving the Central American nation. An earlier shipment of 981 ceramic vessels was sent to Costa Rica in 2011. A large ceramic vase decorated with beeswax was a highlight of the latest shipment, as well, which also featured a half-finished tombstone and a collection of household tools, including grinding stones used to process maize. Both restitutions were elective and unprompted.

Of the Brooklyn Museum’s recent gesture, archaeologist Javier Fallas of the Museo Nacional de Costa Rica told Reuters, “We don’t know why they did it, but it’s something very good and atypical in the world. Fallas’s colleague, Daniela Meneses, a researcher at the museum, expressed a similar sentiment, noting the particular significance of the tombstone, which like many of the restituted artifacts was stolen by American railroad tycoon Minor Keith in the late 1800s. “The tombstone is a piece we have only seen as illustrations in study books here,” remarked Meneses. “It’s amazing to see that piece now. It’s very emotional.”

Italy reclaims stolen artifacts from several American museums

Earlier this month, 200 artifacts stored in museums across the United States were returned to Italy, thanks to the work of the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. Three-quarters of the seized pieces were linked to a single antiquities dealer named Edoardo Almagià who has been accused of smuggling artifacts illegally for decades.

The Getty Museum in Los Angeles, San Antonio Museum of Art in Texas, and Cleveland Museum of Art in Ohio are among the museums involved in the repatriation effort, turning over seven, five, and three pieces, respectively. One of the works retrieved from the Getty Museum was a 2,500-year-old wine cup while the San Antonio Museum of Art’s trove included a series of Greco-Roman jars, plates, and pottery fragments. Fordham University’s Museum of Greek, Etruscan, and Roman Art was also targeted in the repatriation initiative. Roughly 100 antiquities valued at nearly $2 million were reclaimed from the Bronx school, comprising roughly half of the looted objects.

Benin Bronzes are returned to Nigeria, with more on the way Repatriated artifacts 2021_National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Nigeria

Photo: National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Nigeria/Facebook

A series of bronze and brass sculptures known as the Benin Bronzes are slowly making their way home to Nigeria where the Kingdom of Benin’s historical capital is now located. The artifacts, which were created as early as the 16th century and used to decorate the kingdom’s royal palace, were looted by British and French troops at the end of the 19th century. These pieces have been central to the dialogue around repatriating artifacts, with several museums and institutions pledging to remove and eventually return their Benin Bronze displays.

Cambridge University’s Jesus College was the first to make good on its promise, returning a Benin Bronze to Nigeria’s National Commission for Museum and Monuments (NCMM) in October. France’s Musée du Quai Branly in Paris staged a final exhibition of 26 looted Beninese artifacts later that month, officially returning them in mid-November, marking France’s largest restitution to a former colony.

In late November, New York City’s Metropolitan Museum followed suit, turning over two 16th-century brass plaques and a 14th-century bronze bust, or Ife Head, named for the ancient city where it originated. The Met has also signed an agreement with the Nigerian government to loan more of its collection to Nigerian museums in future, while the NCMM has agreed to lend The Met select pieces in 2024 to inaugurate its renovated Michael C. Rockefeller Wing, which displays African, ancient American, and Oceanic art.

Several other museums have announced similar plans. The Smithsonian Museum of African Art in Washington, DC, has committed to repatriating the 38 Benin Bronzes in its collection and pre-emptively removed them from display. The German government likewise intends to return thousands of Benin Bronzes in 2022.

Yet it’s the UK that has the most artifacts to return. Scotland’s University of Aberdeen, Ireland’s National Museum, South London’s Horniman Museum, the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the National Museums in Liverpool, and the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology in Cambridge have all acknowledged the thievery that resulted in their possession of these Beninese artifacts. Each has either pledged to return their Benin Bronzes or outlined plans to consider doing so.

The Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC, restitutes thousands of Iraqi relics

A whopping 17,000 archaeological relics were sent back to Iraq from the United States this past August, marking the largest repatriation campaign of looted Iraqi antiquities in history. Among the looted artifacts were clay cuneiform tablets that bore the etchings of an ancient Middle Eastern script, one of the oldest-known forms of writing, and a series of Mesopotamian seals.

Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, was in possession of roughly one-third of the restituted objects while some 12,000 were housed by the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC, a private museum that was founded by the family behind the retail arts and crafts store Hobby Lobby. This was the company’s second offense. In 2017, Hobby Lobby was fined $3 million and forced to surrender ancient Iraqi artifacts after being found complicit in their smuggling.

The Victoria and Albert Museum turns over a priceless Anatolian antiquity Repatriated artifacts 2021_Anatolian ewer

Photo: Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Collection via Victoria and Albert Museum

Since 2009, London’s Victoria and Albert Museum has housed a 4,250-year-old gold ewer from Anatolia in modern-day Turkey. The piece, which was on long-term loan by British-born American antiquities collector Arthur Gilbert, has since been linked to a dealer who traded in stolen artifacts, a fact of which Gilbert was allegedly unaware. In 2018, the Gilbert Trust and Turkish Ministry of Culture agreed that the decorative jug should be relocated to the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations in Ankara, Turkey’s capital, where it was displayed this past October.

In an effort to promote provenance research and the repatriation of stolen antiquities, the Gilbert Trust has also commissioned a metalsmith to design an original work explaining the story behind the ewer. It will be displayed in the V&A’s Rosalind and Arthur Gilbert Collection.

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Published on December 31, 2021 13:00

Hit California’s standout stargazing spots in this epic road trip

California offers a seemingly endless number of locations to sit down and gaze up at the cosmos. Luckily, travelers don’t have to pick just one spot, and can make a road trip out of it! From SoCal’s literal “stargazer’s paradise” to the Central Coast and Big Sur, to the dark skies of NorCal’s wine country and the Lost Coast — here’s how to plan a road trip to the best stargazing in California.

How to plan a stargazing California road trip

First, pick a method of transportation. Cabana mobile hotels are a great way to road trip across California and catch a more immersive glimpse at the stars. The business even offers a designated “concierge” service that will help plan a trip and customize it to any travel needs.

Travellers Autobarn is another van rental company that offers multiple pickup and drop-off spots across the U.S. — conveniently including San Francisco and Los Angeles. They also offer curated itineraries to help plan and make the most of a road trip experience.

One of the best parts of planning a road trip is the snacks and drinks to bring. In addition to road trip essentials like yummy car snacks and portable chargers, 101 North Wine, which comes in convenient, travel-friendly pouches, are an on-theme must-bring since there’s a good chance California road trippers will at some point be traveling down the “historic 101 freeway.” A section of the 101 between the San Francisco Bay Area up to Los Angeles is designated as “the Royal Road” or “El Camino Real” since the route follows the historic trail that connected California’s 21 missions.

We hope you love the stargazing California tips 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.

Best stargazing spots in SoCal starry sky above Death Valley National Park

Photo: Isogood_patrick/Shutterstock

Stargazing in San Diego County

Stargazer’s Paradise up on Palomar Mountain, San Diego, is a Hipcamp glamping site located just ten minutes away from the famous Palomar Observatory. The site is located at 4,600 feet in elevation, with no obstructions or light pollution. Solar-powered, heated jacuzzis on the mountain dot each of the eight glamping sites, where guests can enjoy the views of the stars while soaking in the vast beauty of the night sky.

At Orchard Hill Country Inn in Julian, which was recently designated as a member of the International Dark Sky Network (one of only two towns in California and less than 300 across the United States) during any stay, guests have access to binoculars and planispheres for light stargazing on peaceful grounds perfect for viewing the town’s dark, clear skies.

At Cal-a-Vie Health Spa, guests can explore the night sky in the spa’s very own observatory with expert astronomer Tim Lewis to view seasonal celestial events from the state-of-the-art Takahashi telescope. “The Celestial Experience” at Cal-a-Vie is a one-hour program in which guests learn about specific deep space objects through lectures and telescope viewings including their significance, distance in lightyears, as well as general concepts about space and time.

Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground in Apple Valley is a vast 160-acre glamping site situated 4,500 feet high in Southern California’s Juniper Flats, where the San Bernardino Mountains meet the Mojave Desert. The stars are particularly visible from here, with the bonus of this being the best spot from which to explore Deep Creek Hot Springs.

Stargazing in Riverside County

California’s desert region surrounding Palm Springs might be one of the greatest places to see the dark skies. The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage offers visitors an exclusive complimentary stargazing experience led by a recreation attendant, paired with a specialty “Constellations & Cocktails” menu. Outside of the Ritz-Carlton, travelers can explore two International Dark Sky Parks (Joshua Tree National Park and Borrego Springs) which are both located within an hour’s drive from Palm Springs and offer unbelievably beautiful views of the night sky.

The La Quinta Resort & Spa hosts a “Camp’d Out Joshua Tree” glamping experience for a luxury stargazing opportunity under the night sky. The three-day package includes two nights at the La Quinta Resort and one night in a glamping set-up for two, s’mores, and overnight butler service. In Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, LaCasa Del Zorro Desert Resort & Spa has its own Stargazing Theater for guests to watch the night sky.

Those who have their own accommodations but still want to explore can book a stargazing tour with Sky Watchers. Guides combine storytelling and constellations for a truly entertaining — and heavenly — experience, starting at $149.

Stargazing in Los Angeles County

Los Angeles might be famous for its smoggy skies, but at Griffith Observatory, there are regularly scheduled events for the public to attend and learn about the stars — even when dealing with the less-than-ideal urban conditions.

At Terranea Resort, opt for a stargazing kit to become immersed in the wonders of the night sky. This package comes with its own star dial to help you locate Orion, Pegasus, and the classic Big Dipper — or even a passing planet, depending on when you visit.

Stargazing in Santa Barbara County

El Capitan Canyon in Santa Barbara is located between the Pacific coastline and 2,500 acres of protected state park hiking trails. The sustainably-minded property hosts “glamping” with safari tents, adventure yurts, and cedar cabins. The adventure yurts have a domed skylight for stargazing in the comfort of a cozy bed. It also offers a weekly stargazing class with a NASA expert.

Best stargazing spots in NorCal starry sky above Yosemite National Park

Photo: Pung/Shutterstock

Stargazing in Monterey County

Alila Ventana Big Sur is set on 160 acres of space in the heart of the California Central Coast overlooking the Pacific coastline. Here, become immersed in a star bathing session, in which expert guides teach guests about the local flora and fauna as they slip quietly through the towering redwood forest that surrounds the property.

Stargazing in Alpine County

North of San Francisco near Lake Tahoe, Hope Valley is one of the best places in California for stargazing. Travelers who want to traverse on their own can night-hike the three-mile Indian Head Trail for unobstructed skyline views and take in starry skies with Wylder Hope Valley’s Stargazing Package.

Stargazing in Placer County

North Lake Tahoe offers a mecca of stargazing opportunities through camping, glamping, and luxury hotel stays. Secline Beach in Kings Beach provides a superb view of the entire lake looking to the east and south for prime viewing of the cosmos from all angles. The Historic Stateline Fire Lookout is another favorite for stargazers looking for a safe, high-altitude spot. The trail is dog-friendly.

Stargazing in Sonoma County

Montage Healdsburg is located in a spacious 258-acres in the heart of California’s world-renowned Sonoma wine country, and offers guests an out-of-the-box stargazing package that goes above and beyond expectations. Those who aren’t planning to splurge as significantly can explore with the help of experts from The Robert Ferguson Observatory (RFO) via the property’s concierge service.

Russian River Autocamp in Guerneville is another incredible destination for glamping under the stars in Sonoma County. Spend the night in one of the modern Airstream Suites or spacious canvas Tents for a cozy and memorable evening.

Stargazing in Inyo County

Death Valley National Park is famous for its extreme temps — but also offers extreme starlight views. It’s one of only eight designated “gold tier” International Dark Sky Parks in the United States where stargazers can actually see the Milky Way with the naked eye. It is also designated the largest Dark Sky National Park in the country by the International Dark Sky Association. The Oasis at Death Valley has taken measures to greatly minimize light pollution in the area. Oasis guests can reserve a private stargazing party to create the ultimate night sky experience, or take a signature moonlight tour.

Stargazing in Mariposa County

Yosemite National Park offers magnificently clear, dark skies where the stars shine bright thanks to no light pollution, and hosts a multitude of Stargazing options. Hike the Yosemite Valley to Yosemite Falls beneath the light of the silvery full moon. In winter, strap on the snowshoes for a star-studded walkabout. Try the flat Cook’s Meadow Trail in Yosemite Valley for an amphitheater of moody bliss or get off the beaten path on any of the lower elevation fire roads in the Sierra National Forest or Stanislaus National Forest.

Stargazing in Mendocino County

Little River Inn on the Mendocino Coast offers a Stargazing Family Fun Package. In addition to accommodations, the package features a stargazing kit complete with special binoculars, a star map, a star guide, and hot chocolate for the family.

The Inn of the Lost Coast is an idyllic perch for stargazing. From a private balcony, an in-suite spa tub, the outdoor fire pit, or walking hand-in-hand along the bluffs, guests can soak up the incredibly dark celestial views of this remote outpost at the edge of the earth.

Other standout stargazing California hotspots

Hostels provide an affordable alternative to expensive hotels. HI Pigeon Point Lighthouse Hostel, HI Point Montara Lighthouse Hostel, and HI Point Reyes Hostel are all ideal locations for stargazing in California’s Bay Area. Each property is either overlooking or near the Pacific, offering abundant outdoor spaces with unobstructed views of the stars, and are near national park areas with trails for gazing. Hipcamp is also a fantastic method of adventuring outside in general, with specific spots to keep on the radar for star-studded experiences — including Sagewinds Farm High Desert Camp, Death Valley Stargazing Camp, and Stargazing at Moonrise Ranch.

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Published on December 31, 2021 09:27

2021 saw incredible developments in the climate fight — these are our favorites

In the final Climate Win of 2021, we highlight this year’s coolest developments in the expansive fight against climate change that you may not have heard about – these are all quite unique. Each has massive potential, brought forth by inspired minds not afraid to think beyond what’s been done before. Let’s get into it.

The first noteworthy Climate Win is a tool in the fight against desertification (the process of fertile land becoming arid desert). This happens due to reduced precipitation, overuse of soil, deforestation, and other causes. A graduate student at the Parsons School of Design in New York developed a biodegradable tool to that could make a huge difference.

Dezeen reported that student Ziahao Fang built a vessel dubbed “Aquastor,” which is placed in open plots of land suffering from extremely dry weather, likely due to rising global temperatures and changing weather patterns. The device vaguely resembles a piece of pottery but is, in fact, an amalgamation of organic and inorganic materials designed to funnel water into the soil. The principle behind the tiny devices is simple: they’re shaped like a donut and have a pointy part that extends under the surface. Water collects in the empty space in the middle and slowly seeps into the ground. When rain hits land without much vegetation, it creates erosion and runoff — but these devices slow the absorption process, driving more useful moisture into the land.

Photo: Airbnb

Made of discarded desert exoskeletons along with clay, sand, and leaf litter, the Aquaster decomposes at the end of its useful life cycle, adding further nutrients to the soil. Its overall goal is to optimize water intake in regions such as the American West that face increased wildfire and desertification risk. While desertification has taken place throughout Earth’s history, Fang told Dezeen that the process is currently happening at 35 to 40 times the historical rate. The Aquaster is also able to be manufactured at scale, which means factories could produce hundreds of thousands for use around the world.

Next up is the sure-fire win for the feel-good story of the year. The giant panda is no longer endangered. China, which touts the adorable bear is its national animal, made the announcement over the summer, National Geographic reported. This is big news for two reasons. First, it’s great news for the pandas, of which there are over 1,800 in the wild— nearly twice as many as when they were designated endangered in the 1980’s. More pandas in the wild lead to larger and healthier future panda generations. And secondly, the de-listing marks a major win for conservation organizations. It proves that change — and recovery — are possible. Of course, they’re not out of the clear yet, as their status is now “threatened” (or vulnerable). It’s just one step above endangered — but it’s a step in the right direction.

The final development worth your attention is a reinvented wheel – quite literally. The Brighter Side of News reported in November on Arizona-based startup Global Air Cylinder Wheels, which created a functional mechanical tire without the use of traditional rubber. The Air Suspension Wheel is primarily steel along with “in-wheel pneumatic suspension through cylinders.” Its design uses far less energy to make and performs better in the field than traditional mechanical tires. Used for mining trucks and other heavy-duty machinery, the wheels are built to last for the lifetime of the vehicle they operate on. That means no changing tires and far less waste, especially considering the tires are recyclable at the end of their lifespan. Traditional rubber tires slowly leak chemicals into the ground when dumped in landfills, and unfortunately, the EPA estimates that more than 25 percent of tires end up in landfills rather than being recycled or repurposed each year.

More climate wins

During the holiday season and impending new year, you may be wondering how you can help environmental initiatives likes the ones above succeed. As many of us have learned, identifying the proper cause or organization to donate to can be confusing and frustrating, particularly given that there are over 400 registered environmental non-profits in the United States alone. Rather than running down more news highlights, we close the year by offering our tips on how to give to non-profits fighting climate change in an effective manner.

There are two easy ways to sift through the madness when it comes to donating money. First, browse the site Giving Green. The site posts data from data-driven studies of the actual impact of environmental NGOs. It then notes which are the most cost-effective and productive from a results-oriented standpoint. Giving Green recommends charities to give to based on qualifiers like how well an organization follows its mission statement, how much of each dollar donated goes to programming efforts, and how effective the group is at making a noticeable impact. Choose a charity doing good things for a cause or location you care about, and donate directly.

The second way to vet environmental charities is to identify an organization founded and/or run by someone you trust. One good way to do this is to find an organization working either in your area, or in a place around the world that you care about (and have a basic understanding of its needs). That way, you can do your own vetting of whether an organization’s efforts are impactful.

As a snowboarder, I am a big fan of Jeremy Jones and make an annual contribution to his environmental non-profit Protect Our Winters because I trust him and appreciate the documentation the organization provides noting their efforts and spending. Many other prominent personalities run or promote environmental causes – several big-name surfers including Kelly Slater’s company Outerknown have partnered with the Ocean Conservancy, for example. Harry Potter fans may wish to defer to Emma Watson’s Instagram page, which consistently posts about environmental efforts around the globe. Even $5 makes a difference.

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Published on December 31, 2021 08:34

How to make the most of your day at Superblue Miami

Superblue Miami is changing the way people experience art. The immersive, technology-driven museum in Miami’s industrial Allapattah neighborhood is far more than a series of installations for people to stroll through and admire. It’s a place where visitors can affect the art around them, and be as much a part of the show as the works filling the walls.

“We’re prioritizing shared experiences between artists and audience,” says Superblue’s Director of Experiential Art Centers Shantelle Rodriguez. “Rather than the traditional practice of artists creating in studios, then maybe seeing them at a show, our goal is to reach a broader audience.”

So how is Superblue making that happen? By creating a walk-through space where you can touch the walls and make vines climb skyward, and opening a room of clouds, where one can immerse themselves in the mist and change its shape. Superblue is art-as-experience rather than showcase, and democratizes art in a way that it’s accessible to everyone.

“It’s not just pictures on a wall,” Rodriguez says. “It’s always unexpected. We’ve had a ton of kids get pulled in for school, and they were not happy to be here until they were finished. And then they were like, ‘Oh, I thought you were bringing me to a boring museum.’”

What is Superblue Miami?The #1 piece of advice for visiting Superblue Miami The best times to visit Superblue Miami Where to start your Superblue experience Everything to see when you visit Superblue Miami How long should I budget to visit the Superblue Miami museum?Tickets to Superblue Miami and hours of operation Where to eat when visiting Superblue MiamiWhat is Superblue Miami?

Put simply, Superblue is a rotating collection of interactive art installations. Currently, it houses an exhibit called Every Wall is a Door, a frequently abstract look at how people affect the environment. Works are from various artists, including the art collaborative teamLab, and noted light sculptor James Terrell. And while Rodriguez wouldn’t divulge what exhibits might be coming next, she did indicate 2022 will see some new stuff.

Interestingly, Superblue also shares its proceeds with the artists. So that rather than depending on wealthy collectors to support them, artists can showcase their work and make revenue based on the audience.

“There’s a whole commercial engine needed to support (the artists),” Rodriguez says. “If they’re not making money, they’ll retreat back into their studios. Museum shows don’t pay a residual, so the ground breaking model is creating experiences that give revenue back to the artists.”

The #1 piece of advice for visiting Superblue Miami

Though it might sound a little trite to say “keep your mind open” when visiting an art museum, at Superblue it really is the best advice. What you’ll find is always going to be a little out of the ordinary, so having no preconceived notions before walking through the door is wise.

“Have no expectations, just have fun,” says Rodriguez. “People are used to going to museums with a certain attitude, (they) have to be mellow or mature. Just come as you are and explore and learn about the artists.”

The best times to visit Superblue Miami

Passes to Superblue are timed, so, in theory at least, you’ll never really have to deal with exhibits being more or less crowded than other times. That said, Superblue isn’t pushing people though, so if you want to spend three hours watching the seasons change in Proliferating Immense Life you can do that.

The museum lets fewer people in during the week than on weekends, though, so if you really want to have the place to yourself go between 11 AM and 3 PM on weekdays.

Where to start your Superblue experience

Superblue is a journey, not a destination. So you really only have one place to start, and that’s at the beginning. No need to try and plan your time here, it’s pretty much laid out for you.

Everything to see when you visit Superblue Miami

Remember, Superblue’s installations are rotating, and while Rodriguez assured it’s not like a regular museum where they shift things out every three months, you also may not see this exact lineup on your visit. Best to check Superblue’s website to see what’s on when you go.

1. Meadow superblue-suspension-drift-meadow-model

Photo: Oriol Tarridas Photography

You’ll have to look up to catch Meadow, Superblue’s first exhibit. It’s a work of opening and closing flower blooms hanging from the ceiling just past the front desks. The installation acts as a sort of diversion for people waiting to get into the first interactive exhibit, but makes for an intriguing spectacle to pass the time.

2. Proliferating Immense Life — A Whole Year per Year superblue-teamLab-changing-seasons-exhibit

Photo: teamLab, courtesy Pace Gallery

The first full room in Superblue Miami is teamLab’s Proliferating Immense Life — A Whole Year per Year, which as the name might imply puts you in the middle of four changing seasons. Lush summer foliage turns to fall colors, which slowly die away into a barren winter scape, before subtly blooming again for spring.

Guests can help the process along by touching the walls and causing flowers to die, fall, or be reborn. It’s a not-so-subtle reminder that we affect the seasons more than we think. Or, at the very least, it’s a chance to play god for a few minutes.

“The idea is that it’s ever changing, it depends on how people around you are interacting,” says Rodriguez. “You’ll always see something new…a different flower, a different season.”

3. Massless Clouds between Sculpture and Life superblue-teamlab-masslesscloudsbetweensculptureandlife_Miami

Photo: teamLab, courtesy Pace Gallery

More commonly known as the “cloud room,” this installation is like the most low-key foam party you’ll ever attend, where visitors donning ponchos shuffle over a metal floor through a sea of thick clouds. The disorienting haze of the white bubbles makes for a sometimes-confusing journey. But also makes for some trippy, mad-scientist photo-ops.

Just be sure not to swallow too much of the stuff. It’s not toxic, but it’s not pleasant either, and can leave a mild burning sensation in your throat if you ingest too much. Note Superblue charges an upcharge for this experience, but we highly recommend that you don’t miss it.

4. Universe of Water Particles, Transcending Boundaries

After stepping out of the clouds, the next exhibit can be a two-for-one, depending on how you choose to interact. It begins as Universe of Water Particles, Transcending Boundaries, which looks a little like a moving painting of a vertical rainstorm.

But touch the wall and you’ll turn it into Flowers and People, Cannot Be Controlled But Live Together — Transcending Boundaries, A Whole Year per Hour. Though the name may take longer to say than the exhibit does to visit, it’s a lesson in humans’ ability to resurrect nature when we try, as touching the wall brings blooms to desolate spaces.

5. Roden Crater — AKA the James Terrell installation

James Terrell’s white room installation at Superblue was far and away the most ballyhooed part of the museum when it opened. And though some have raved about this stark, sloped space, where changing colors distort your perception and sense of space, more than a few mutters of, “I don’t get it” can be heard as guests leave the room.

6. Forest of Us superblue-esdevlin-forestofus

Photo: Andrea Mora

The Instagram star of Superblue’s show is Forest of Us, which begins with a short film comparing the human condition to life in a forest. The film ends, double doors open, and you’re released into Es Devlin’s two-story mirror maze. It’s tailor-made for provocative pictures and confusing journeys, with grand staircases and narrow hallways. How long should I budget to visit the Superblue Miami museum?

If you’re not up for spending a lot of time making flowers bloom on museum walls, you can easily experience the whole thing in under half an hour. That said, breezing through it that quickly is kind of a waste of money. Rodriguez suggests budgeting about an hour and a half per visit, which from our experience sounds exactly right.

Tickets to Superblue Miami and hours of operation

Superblue is open every day of the week, though hours differ. Sunday to Wednesday it’s open from 10 AM to 7 PM. Thursday to Saturday it’s open from 10 AM to 8 PM. Those times reflect when the last timed entrance is allowed so, again, nobody’s kicking you out at 7:59 PM.

General adult admission to Superblue is $36 for adults. Seniors, military, and frontline healthcare workers get $2 off. Children are $32.

Where: Superblue Miami, 1101 NW 23 Street, Miami, FL 33127, US

Where to eat when visiting Superblue Miami

You won’t find any onsite dining at Superblue, but the Caja Caliente food truck has set up shop just outside. It’s a Cuban taco with Caribbean takes on the Mexican classic, like lechon and vaca frita tacos with caramelized onions and black bean pico. Their bowls are also enough for two meals, filled with quinoa, cucumbers, and plenty of meat.

The Caribe Vegan — with plant-based versions of traditional Dominican food — is also a frequent guest outside Superblue. As is Che Grill, a regular, meat-based Latin food truck that’s also amassed a large following.

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Published on December 31, 2021 07:35

December 30, 2021

I traveled to South Africa during Omicron. This is what it was like.

When South African scientists released the news that they had recorded a new strain of COVID-19 that would later become known as Omicron, tens of thousands of people who had planned to visit countries in Southern Africa toward the end of 2021 canceled their trips. We planned a trip to South Africa for months and decided to go anyway, and it was the best decision of 2021.

Here’s the breakdown of our trip and what it was like to be in South Africa in December, during Omicron.

Airports, transportation, and lodging south africa omicron, intercontinental hotel

Photo: InterContinental Johannesburg O.R.Tambo Airport/Facebook

From the moment we arrived in South Africa on the non-stop Delta flight from Atlanta to Johannesburg, I was impressed with how the airport handled COVID-19 safety protocol. Moving through passport control was smooth—instructions were clear and so the line moved along quickly. They kept people socially distanced in line the entire time, too.

We stayed at the Intercontinental for one night when we arrived in Jo’burg, and then split nine nights of safari at epic lodges in Kruger and Sabi Sands. All of the hotels and safari lodges were mainly empty. They told us there had been a ton of cancellations in the wake of the media frenzy around Omicron.

Wildlife

south africa omicron, elephants on safari

Photo: Ross Borden

We benefited from traveling during this time because we had the Magnificent Seven all to ourselves. The wildlife in South Africa was simply incredible. In our time between the two National Parks, we saw incredible and intimate sightings of white rhinos, Cape buffalos, cheetahs (including a female with two cubs), multiple prides of lions, numerous leopards, a hyena den with pups, huge herds of elephants, and even a rare pack of African Wild Dogs. We were lucky enough to witness both cheetah and leopard hunting, and we spent each evening watching epic African sunsets with one of the Big Five all to ourselves. No other safari jeeps in sight.

Wine country south africa omicron, wine country

Photo: Ross Borden

We headed to an up-and-coming part of South Africa’s famous wine country adjacent to the popular Stellenbosch, where we spent a couple nights in a manor that was meant to be shared with other guests. Due to multiple cancellations, we had the entire property to ourselves.

South African cities, landmarks, and normally-packed attractions south africa omicron, southernmost point

Photo: Ross Borden

Finally, we finished the trip in Cape Town. This was honestly the part of the trip we were most cautious about – given that it’s a big city with a lot of people, and pandemic or not, Christmas falls directly in their summer high season. We spent Christmas at the One&Only and despite the offensively high nightly room rates, the hotel was mostly empty and they did a great job keeping everyone COVID-safe.

The beaches in Camps Bay and Clifton were pretty packed, but the hike up Lion’s Head and the Table Mountain Cable Car were the least crowded I’ve ever seen them (this was my 4th time visiting Cape Town). We rented a car one day and drove all the way down to the Cape of Good Hope, and saw penguins at Boulders Beach on the way down. The wildlife guide there explained that the penguin viewing area of Boulders Beach is typically mobbed with thousands of tourists, yet we walked right in and only had to share it with a couple dozen people.

Bottom line: We’ve just gotten home to California, and none of us got COVID-19 on a more than two-week trip around South Africa. The irony is that many people back home in the States (some of whom had warned us not to go to Africa) got Omicron in the US while we were gone.

We’re living in a time when everyone needs to make their own travel decisions, but I would caution not to buy into the media hype around Omicron in South Africa or surrounding nations. We felt safe the entire time. The South African authorities and tourism organizations are doing a fantastic job keeping travelers safe, and this might actually be the best time you could ever visit the region due to the lack of other tourists. The most COVID-19 danger I felt on the entire trip? When we landed back in the US.

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Published on December 30, 2021 14:00

The best things to do in Gainesville for an outdoorsy North Florida vacation

To travelers outside the state, it looks like Florida’s theme parks and coastal cities get all the love. Were you to look around the airport, you’d see most travelers decked out in cheesy tropical shirts on their way to beach bars in Tampa or sporting their Mickey Mouse ears on their way to Walt Disney World.

Of course, the theme parks in Orlando and southern Florida’s soft, flour-soft beaches are plenty of reason to visit the state. But there are many things to do in Gainesville and its surrounding towns, in the northern part of the state, that are arguably more adventurous, more fun, and less busy than Florida’s central and southern destinations. And because they’re not as popular, they’re often more affordable, too.

In the northern part of Florida, you can dive into a prehistoric spring, zipline over canyon waters, and kayak through water so clear you’ll see wildlife and plants 20 feet below the boat as if you’re looking through glass. So on your next trip, consider skipping Orlando and the coastal towns in favor of finding new things to do in Gainesville and around Ocala, two cool towns easy to visit in a single trip.

Downtown Gainesville

Gainesville is home to the University of Florida and is quite a large city, but it’s beautiful surroundings and easy access to nature make it feel more like a suburban town than a metropolis. Hotel Eleo is a centrally located hotel with a great on-site restaurant (Covey Kitchen + Cocktail) on the University of Florida campus. However, most hotels in the city will be at a similar three-star, mid-$100s price point on an average day. Ultimately, the location of your hotel probably won’t matter that much since it’s easy to get around the city.

Things to do in Downtown Gainesville Victoria lily pads in a garden

Photo: Jazmine Thomas/Shutterstock

The best things to do in Gainesville are outdoor-related and you’ll find plenty of places to hike. But if looking for a spot to view wildlife while getting a little exercise, head to Gainesville’s La Chua Trail, the perfect place to see alligators. It’s about three miles long with no elevation gain and has a series of boardwalks over swampy areas and through the woods. Expect to see lots of alligators and other species of birds and amphibians.

If you prefer flora to fauna, head to the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, known for it’s record-breaking Victoria water lilies that reach up to six feet in diameter. The gardens are dog-friendly and cover 68 acres of botanical displays like herb gardens and rare bamboo collections.

Finding a few flying bugs isn’t a hard thing to do in northern Florida, but if you specifically want to see the prettiest of bugs, visit the Florida Museum of Natural History Butterfly Rainforest. It has about 50 species of butterflies to observe in a secured area. And if there’s any time left in the day, head to Depot Park. Adults can grab a drink and check out public art while those traveling with young kids will want to visit the park’s Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention and “Blue Grotto” splash park.

Dining in Downtown Gainesville

Gainesville is a big city, so you’ll find just about any cuisine you’re after, but there are a few extra-unique options you’ll probably want to try.

Head downtown to Dragonfly Sushi & Sake Company for bao buns, sushi rolls and its signature “Uni Shooters” with quail egg yolk, caviar, and wasabi aïoli served in a lemon. The nearby Hyppo Gainesville has a wide variety of ice pop flavors that almost seem healthy, made with fresh-pressed juices. And if everyone in your crew wants something different, head to the 4th Ave Food Park for a lemonade-cold brew coffee from Opus Coffee Airstream Van and pizza from Satch Squared.

Gainesville outskirts and day tripsDevil’s Den devil's den spring prehistoric florida

Photo: ADRIAN DIAZ CADAVID/Shutterstock

There’s no shortage of beautiful scenery in Florida, but Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring is genuinely unique. The natural spring looks like a Mexican cenote, though it’s actually a dry cave filled with warm water (around 72 degrees Fahrenheit) from an underground spring. The cave has fossil beds and ancient rock formations, and the sun beaming in from the opening above the spring ensures swimmers can see the rocks and formations while in the water. Visiting is one of the most popular things to do in Gainesville (it’s about 35 minutes away from downtown) as travelers come to snorkel and dive in the warm water.

When you arrive, you’ll check in and pay your fee, and pick up your snorkeling or diving gear. You’ll then walk down a series of steps into the spring. Devil’s Den is just for snorkeling and diving (not swimming), but there are plenty of other nearby springs for swimming, tubing, and more. Make reservations online as the capacity is limited.

Ocala

Ocala is about an hour south of Gainesville and an hour north of Orlando, so it’s a great add-on to a trip to either city. It’s full of places to play outside and gorgeous scenery. If you’re spending the night, The Equestrian Hotel near the World Equestrian Facility is a truly unique place to stay. It’s an entire community focused on dressage and equestrian pursuits, and guests can watch professional riders practice and compete. The hotel also has upscale offerings like a pool, spa, and restaurants.

In Ocala, kayaking down the Rainbow River in Rainbow Springs State Park is one of the area’s most popular activities. The warm water is crystal-clear, making it easy to spot fish, otters, and even the occasional manatee or alligator — and the trees are full of bird species. You can also go tubing, though the tubing area isn’t within the main part of the park.

Photo: Winkie640/Shutterstock

Kayaking isn’t the only nearby activity, though. Some of the nearby natural springs like Silver Springs offer glass-bottom boat tours, during which riders can expect to see wildlife, sunken boats, underwater statues, and even the famous “Silver Springs Monkeys” swinging through the trees. The rumor is that the monkeys escaped from the set of a “Tarzan” movie in 1939, though that’s only partially true — the monkeys were released onto the island by a local boat captain around the same time; some say it was to tie the area to the hopefully-successful movie. But regardless, the monkeys’ numbers have soared. They’re cute, but give them a wide berth as they’re wild and can carry diseases.

For tamer, family-friendly fun, head to the Canyon Zip Line and Adventure Park. The tour takes zipliners through a gorge, matching the speed to the comfort level of the group. Plan on a couple of hours if you choose the canyon zipline. There are shorter tours available, but the canyon option lets guests zipline over water and cross a few Indiana Jones-style rope bridges before ending the experience with a rappel.

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Published on December 30, 2021 11:14

Going to the Super Bowl? Book one of these Airbnbs near SoFi Stadium

Here we are again counting down the days until Super Bowl LVI on February 13. For those fortunate enough to attend in person, it’s time to finalize travel plans, including booking an Airbnb near SoFi Stadium. Here are the best Airbnbs in Inglewood, California, that are within walking distance of Sofi Stadium and other popular California attractions like The Forum, Disneyland, or Venice Beach.

We hope you love the Airbnbs near SoFi Stadium 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.

Newly renovated private bungalow

Photo: Airbnb

This newly renovated home in Inglewood awaits your California adventure. Its built as a “luxury high-tech home,” and you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen with new smart appliances and a lounge space perfect for pregame action and post-game movies. The open floor plan is perfect for a relaxing and hangout session after a long day exploring. It features a pull-out sleeper from the sofa that can accommodate two guests. The home is conveniently located near SoFi Stadium, The Forum, LAX, Culver City, the USC Coliseum, and more.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $309 per night