Matador Network's Blog, page 561
October 20, 2021
Saudi Arabia is really trying to lure tourists. This time with a new ‘extreme’ park.
“Oil rig” and “family fun” aren’t often used in the same sentence, but a new theme park in Saudi Arabia is looking to change that in a manner that’s both safe and not nearly as boring as you might expect.
The country’s newest theme park is called The Rig. It’s a former oil rig in the Arabian Gulf that will be converted into a more than 1.6 million-square-foot theme park, consisting of three hotels and 11 restaurants across several connected platforms. Plenty of adrenaline-pumping experiences will be on tap, like bungee jumping, roller coasters, a simulated beach, a go kart track, and more. Multiple helipads and 50 docks for boats will help with getting people out onto this ocean theme park.
The project is funded by the country’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which released a promotional video earlier this month.
“This project is a unique tourism attraction expected to attract tourists from around the world,” the PIF said in a statement. A particular focus will be on visitors from the Arabian Gulf region.
The park is part of the Saudi Vision 2030 strategy, which has the ultimate goal of making Saudi Arabia a top international tourism destination to compete with nearby Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The Six Flags Qiddiya project, which announced earlier this year that it will have the world’s fastest roller coaster, is part of the same tourism campaign, along with NEOM — a futuristic “sustainable” city being built in the Arabian desert. Celebrating oil rigs through a theme park might not be the most sustainable-first mindset, but it’s surely better for the environment than drilling.
As of publication, no date has been announced for the completion of The Rig.
”More”The
94 percent of people in China live east of this line
About 18 percent of the world’s population lives in China. And although China is also the third largest country by landmass, 94 percent of people in the country live on just 43 percent of the land.
The YouTube channel RealLifeLore explains that the majority of the population is divided by a diagonal line from Heihe in the northeast to Tengchong in the southwest. It’s not unlike the situation in Canada where 50 percent of people in the country live in just a small region near the Great Lakes. The reason why comes down to three main reasons: climate and geography, resources, and culture.
Eastern China is easier to develop due to its flat plains, and water sources like the Sichuan Basin and the Yellow and Yangtze rivers feed farmland and cities. Western China, however, has the Taklamakan and Gobi Deserts, as well as the Tibetan Plateau. These regions receive almost no rainfall because of the Himalayan Mountains, and are at an elevation and high enough longitude to cause extreme temperature swings: as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter and then skyrocket to 113 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer.
Despite being a tough place for people, western China has glaciers, and the five rivers that begin in the region provide plenty of water to multiple Asian countries. It also has oil, and the landscape has historically served as a natural barrier to invaders. The people who live here are predominantly minorities in China.
The six percent of the population that does live in the Western part of China are predominantly minorities in the country. More than 90 percent of the country is Han Chinese, though there are 56 ethnic groups in the China. A large portion of the minority groups live in the West, including Uyghur Muslims, which China is currently being accused of genocide against. 
The 9 most spectacular US hotels that go all out for Christmas
Nothing says “happy holidays” like an extravagant Christmas display. Hoteliers know this. That’s why every winter hotels across the country get dressed in their holiday best, with twinkly lights and holly wreaths and maybe a reindeer lawn ornament or two. But only a handful of hotels truly go all out. From stories-high Christmas trees to beachfront ice skating rinks, these nine US holiday hotels take seasonal cheer to a whole new level.
We hope you love these holiday 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.
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess — Scottsdale, Arizona
Photo: Fairmont Scottsdale Princess/Facebook
Every year the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess performs a Christmas miracle: It turns the Sonoran Desert into a winter wonderland. The transformation starts with over six million LED lights, 70,000 of which are threaded around a giant tree in the resort’s Enchanted Plaza. Next comes 6,000 square feet of actual ice in the shape of a desert skating rink, an alpine skate track and 120-foot sledding hill at The Village, and a s’mores-ready campfire in the Christmas tree forest. Even Santa makes an appearance for meet-and-greets.
Price: $639 per night
Hotel del Coronado — San Diego, CaliforniaPhoto: Hotel del Coronado
San Diego’s Hotel del Coronado has become an unlikely holiday destination, thanks to the oceanfront ice rink the hotel sets up every winter. Activities like starlight holiday movie screenings and Jingle Roast s’mores sessions around private bonfires help sell the idea of a California Christmas. But Christmas dinner is where the hotel really shines, with a grand buffet in the Crown and Coronet Rooms. There’s also a Roaring ‘20s-themed New Year’s Eve Gala here, for those who want to keep the festivities going.
Price: $645 per night
Gaylord Opryland — Nashville, Tennessee
Photo: Gaylord Opryland/Facebook
Nashville’s Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center promises a “country Christmas” with dozens of activities starting in November. Guests can try ice skating, ice tubing, or even ice bumper bars; hop in a horse-drawn carriage; cruise the resort’s Delta Atrium in a riverboat; and catch holiday dinner shows before enjoying the nightly tree lighting and caroling. With tons of kid-focused activities such as a Build-A-Bear workshop and Santa’s Spinner ride, Gaylord Opryland is particularly fun for families with little ones.
Price: $369 per night
The Plaza Hotel — New York, New York
Photo: The Plaza Hotel/Facebook
Manhattan’s Plaza Hotel is a New York City icon. Especially at Christmas. Second to Rockefeller Center’s Norway spruce, The Plaza decorates one of the city’s glitziest trees, which in the past has reached almost 20 feet tall, featured close to 1,000 ornaments, and had fun themes such as “Eloise” and “The Great Gatsby.” Gourmands will appreciate the holiday menus at the hotel’s fine-dining Palm Court restaurant, with a special Christmas Grand Buffet on the 25th.
Price: $1,299 per night
The Resort at Paws Up — Greenough, Montana
Photo: The Resort at Paws Up
The Resort at Paws Up is offering a special “Montana Christmas” package this holiday season. The offer includes a five-night stay in a luxury vacation home, complete with your very own Christmas tree, plus entry into a gingerbread-house-building contest, a visit from Santa on Christmas Eve, and a $500 resort gift card per person per stay. Meals and round-trip airport transfers are also included. On the ranch, guests have their pick of winter activities, from cross-country and downhill skiing to fat biking, snowmobiling, dog sledding, tubing, and skijoring, a sport that involves strapping on skis and being pulled by a horse or dog.
Price: $1,637 per night
The Cloister at Sea Island — Sea Island, Georgia
Photo: The Cloister at Sea Island
This five-star resort on a private island in Georgia goes all out for Christmas, from its elegant decorations to its roster of holiday events. This year’s kid-friendly festivities will include a Reindeer Dash Family Fun Run, storytime with Santa’s elves, and ornament-decorating workshops. Even the furry, four-legged members of your family are invited to get in on the fun at the 19th annual Reindog Parade, costumes encouraged. Top it off with a big Christmas Eve dinner in the Cloister Ballroom, and it’ll be a holiday to remember.
Price: $1,063 per night
The Roosevelt — New Orleans, Louisiana
Photo: The Roosevelt New Orleans
It comes as no surprise that one of the grandest holiday hotels in New Orleans stages one of the most breathtaking Christmas displays. Walking through the lobby is an event in its own right, owing to more than 100,000 glittering lights, dozens of Christmas trees decorated with over 1,000 glass ornaments, over 1,500 feet of garland, and magical displays of birch boughs and wreaths. Don’t be surprised if you see non-guests lining up for selfies.
Price: $448 per night
Mohonk Mountain House — New Paltz, New York
Photo: Mohonk Mountain House
This Victorian castle turned upstate New York resort does the holidays Dickens style. Beginning Christmas Eve, guests can participate in a host of yuletide fun, from decorating cookies and graham cracker houses to competing in a yule log scavenger hunt that kicks off with Christmas trivia. Mohonk Mountain House also makes it easy to enjoy the wintry Hudson Valley air. Think ice skating, Catskills snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing on 30-plus miles of groomed trails.
Price: $655 per night
The Hotel Hershey — Hershey, Pennsylvania
Photo: The Hotel Hershey/Facebook
Leave it to the chocolate capital of America to host one of the nation’s most delicious Christmas celebrations. During the holidays at Hotel Hershey, guests not only get five-star service but also access to Hersheypark Christmas Candylane, a town-wide holiday extravaganza. There are roller coasters, sweets-themed eateries like The Chocolatier restaurant, and a resident Santa complete with an entourage of reindeer. Treat the kids to a trip to “The Sweetest Place on Earth” this holiday season, and consider your Christmas gifts covered.
Price: $279 per night
More like thisFestivals12 places around the world that go all out with holiday lightsThe 8 coolest vegan boots and sneakers for travelers
People are seeking out ways to minimize the harmful effects fashion has on the environment and becoming more conscious about how their clothes are produced. When it comes to footwear for everyday travel and adventure, vegan shoe companies are providing more style, quality and comfort options without the adverse effects to animals and the planet. But why are vegan shoes gaining more popularity as an eco-friendly option?
Are vegan shoes more environmentally friendly?Vegan shoes are generally classified as products made without the use of animal-derived products, such as fur, leather, wool, and even some glues. Many vegan shoes don’t often tick the environmentally-friendly box when they are made of ‘plastic leather’, either from a PVC (polyvinyl) or PU (polyurethane).
The over-use of these toxic materials in footwear have driven eco-conscious vegan shoe companies to strategize solutions within textile and production manufacturing by ensuring fair-trade practices, using plant-based leather and upcycling plastics from oceans and landfills. There are many vegan shoe companies that not only create cruelty-free products but source raw materials sustainably, and produce long-lasting shoes under fair and ethical working conditions.
The alternatives to animal leather and ‘pleather’ are eco-friendly, breathable, lightweight cruelty-free vegan shoe materials that are created from plants such as cotton, apples, coconut, rubber, cork, and even pineapple. For your next trip, we’ve compiled a list of animal and earth-friendly vegan shoes that help reduce environmental impacts without compromising on comfort, quality materials and style.
We hope you love the vegan shoes we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to purchase. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.
The best vegan bootsPo-Zu’s VIM boots
Photo: Po-Zu
Po-Zu’s collection of footwear has you covered for a shoe that is 100% vegan. Their innovative and renewable, low-impact materials create funky designs that are flexible and long-lasting. Their natural coconut husk sole is comfortable as they are fit for long days exploring a new city or nature-loving walks through beautiful landscapes.
Po-Zu are continually innovating. They shared with Matador Network, “Mushroom leather is the latest innovation material for the industry and we look forward to working with it on up and coming collections.”
We recommend their GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified cotton and fair-trade rubber VIM Boots.
Price: From $120.89
Vivobarefoot TRACKER II FG
Photo: Vivobarefoot
If you are considering off-road or hiking adventures, then Vivobarefoot vegan range has thermal, trail and waterproof options to choose from in their signature minimalist shoe sole. A bonus is how lightweight their boots are to travel with. The company uses post-consumer plastic waste and is designed to be “remade and reworn.” They aim to keep their vegan footwear out of the landfills and upcycle the materials to create even more eco-friendly hiking options. Browse through their collections to choose the perfect style choice that suits your environmental and vegan standards.
Price: From $197.00
Astral Pisgah waterproof boots
Photo: Astral
Astral footwear designs vegan adventure shoes fit for the outdoor traveler. These vegan shoes are a great option for trekking through mountains or enjoying the scenery of forest trails. Astral developed a high-quality rubber grip for their patented Sticky G® Outsoles. The company also uses recycled polyester and aims to source sustainable materials where possible. The founder, Phillip Curry, explains “We were deeply committed to building the best performing products for wilderness athletes, and we focused on building them in the least toxic, lowest impact way. I loved creating a company where cool, creative people could work together to benefit nature.”
Price: From $150.00
Novesta Chelsea rubber boots
Photo: Novesta
European brand Novesta was established in 1939 and since then they have been making hand-made sustainable shoes. Their vegan shoe designs are durable, washable, and made with natural rubber, sustainably sourced and certified from forestry plantations. For a completely waterproof boot option, go for their no-waste Chelsea rain boot. They also have a great vegan shoe collection for kids.
Price: $86.00
Inov-8 Hiking boots
Photo: Inov8
Shoe companies like Inov-8, are transparent with their sustainability strategies through their entire supply chain and ensure their hiking shoes are 100% vegan. Even their shoeboxes are recycled cardboard using water-based ink. Their boots are super vegan shoe options for light and fast travel in either dry or wet terrain.
Price: From $142.00
The best vegan sneakersNAE vegan sneakers
Photo: NAE
Recyclable PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is still a popular choice when creating a vegan shoe because of its lightweight and durability. With NAE (No Animal Exploitation) vegan shoes, you can choose a recycled plastic or natural fabric design for a sneaker, boot or sandal. This company uses recycled PET in many of its sneaker designs from post-consumer plastic or used plastic collected from the ocean. The company is GRS (Global Recycled Standard) certified which means their recycled materials are traceable and labeled correctly along with safe and equitable working conditions used in the production line. GRS certifications are definitely something to look out for in fashion in order to avoid companies that may inflate their sustainability claims commonly known as ‘greenwashing.’
Price: $123.00
UIN’s slip-on sneakers
Photo: UIN
UIN has some of the most unique vegan slip-on shoe collections around, featuring bold designs inspired by nature and travel. Their artistic sneakers are designed for the free-spirited explorer to walk comfortably on a flexible sole, in super-light style and free of fur and animal derivatives. With over 50 brightly painted designs inspired by global destinations, you’ll find the perfect match for you that may even be inspired by your next trip.
Price: From $75
KUMI sneakersPhoto: KUMI
The sustainable fashion duo, Alexandra and Sergio, kickstarted KUMI sneaker company in 2021. Their passion for traveling and their love for animals inspired them to design a comfortable vegan shoe that would meet eco-sustainable values in six different colors. They crowd-funded their fashion project “to create a community of globe-trotters that seek to leave a sustainable footprint with every step they take and that are committed to change the society they live in.” They have factored sustainability into every detail, from the shipping, shoe bag to even the eyelets of the shoe.
Price: From $150
Thousand Fell sneakers
Photo: Thousand Fell
With over 300 million pairs of shoes ending up in US landfills every year, Thousand Fell created a ‘full circle footwear’ that is focused on durability and comfort. They use recycled yoga mats as the shoe insole and when you buy your pair of sneakers, you can get paid to recycle them back into their circular economy. Their thoughtful vegan designs have been tested for 2.4 million steps to ensure durability and long-lasting comfort. Although their sneakers are white, they are thoughtfully made as stain-proof with either biodegradable, recycled or materials that can be upcycled in another pair of shoes.
Price: From $120.00
More like thisFashionEverything you need to know to be a sustainable fashionistaOctober 19, 2021
The most significant lines from “Squid Game” that were lost in translation
This story contains spoilers. If you have not watched “Squid Game”, go do that and then come back.
“Squid Game,” written and produced by Hwang Dong Hyuk, is the South Korean series that everyone and their neighbor is talking about. But while the series has been an immense and unprecedented success, it has also stirred controversy. Many Korean speakers who have watched the series in both Korean and English have been criticizing the translation of the subtitles, going as far as saying that the essence of the series was mostly lost during the process.
not to sound snobby but i’m fluent in korean and i watched squid game with english subtitles and if you don’t understand korean you didn’t really watch the same show. translation was so bad. the dialogue was written so well and zero of it was preserved
— youngmi mayer (@ymmayer) September 30, 2021
To understand the ongoing debate about the translation of the subtitles in “Squid Game”, let’s look at some of the most significant lines of the show in six episodes, how they were translated into English, and what really was lost in translation.
1. Episode one: Red Light, Green Light
Photo: Netflix
“Red Light, Green Light”
“무궁화 꽃 이 피었 습니다.” (Time stamp: 44:54)
In the first episode of the series, all 456 players are gathered together in one room to take part in their very first game: Red Light, Green Light. Many Korean speakers were confused by the English translation of the event’s name. In Korea, the game played is called “Mugunghwa kkoci pieot seumnida (무궁화 꽃 이 피었 습니다),” the direct translation of which is “The hibiscus flowers have blossomed.”
While the rules are indeed similar to Red Light, Green Light, the South Korean cultural subtleties are definitely lost in the renaming of the game. The hibiscus flower is South Korea’s national flower and its meaning is “eternal blossom that never fades,” which is a very patriotic message for the citizens of South Korea. The flower is recognized for its resiliency and strength.
The cultural element has truly been lost in the English translation of the subtitles, but it was impossible to translate directly and quickly without creating confusion among non-Korean speakers. “Red Light, Green Light” is possibly dry, but it is technically accurate and helps viewers understand the storyline by using a well-known cultural equivalent.
2. Episode two: Hell
Photo: Netflix
“Now, aren’t you a little old to be this clueless?”
“그 나이에 순진한 거야 멍청한 거야?” (Time stamp: 14:32)
In episode two, Sae Byuk and Gi Hun get dropped off on the side of the road after the majority of people vote to opt out of the Squid Game. Gi Hun unties Sae Byuk and he pleads with her to untie him, but she slowly walks away for fear he might threaten her. While she leaves him behind, he calls after her, demanding that she untie him and reciprocate his helpful gesture. Her response in the subtitles are, “Now, aren’t you a little old to be this clueless?” The more accurate and direct translation would be “At your age, is it that you’re innocent or dumb?” The translation of this particular line is very important to the overall character development of Gi Hun as one of the main reasons why people begin to sympathize with him is because of how naive and dull he is. Her rhetorical question encompassed all of who Gi Hun is.
3. Episode five: A Fair World
Photo: Netflix
“Just call me Sang Woo, ok?”
“그냥 형이라고해.” (Time stamp: 15:35)
In episode five, Ali and Sang Woo are on night watch, making sure that their team is protected from anyone who may attack them in the middle of the night. While conversing and getting to know each other, Sang Woo asks Ali what his age is. This is a significant moment because up until this point, Ali had been referring to Sang Woo as “sa-jang-nim,” which is a formal and respectful way of saying “boss.” At this moment when he asks for Ali’s age, Sang Woo seems to break down his walls as he encourages Ali, “to call him hyung.” The English translation in the subtitles only mentions his first name, but “hyung” is a term that is used for younger males to address older males. It is a term of endearment and often used if the two males are close. It is also a term used between brothers. The effect in this particular moment is that Sang Woo is showing affection towards Ali and their bond is deepening; this is significant as it shows that Sang Woo isn’t all that evil.
4. Episode six: Gganbu
Photo: Netflix
“I’m not a genius, but I still got it work out. Huh?”
“공부를 안 해서 그렇지. 머리는 장난 아니라니까, 응?” (Time stamp: 6:12)
In the epic tug-of-war episode, Mi Nyeo is desperate to find a partner for the upcoming game. She goes to Gi Hun and brags about how smart and strong she is: “I’m not a genius, but I still got it work out.” The translation is not only grammatically incorrect but it also does not convey a defining element of her character. What she says in Korean is, “I didn’t study, but my brain is no joke,” implying that she is very smart, but never got the chance to study. The implications of this is far deeper than her just not being smart — she was not given the same opportunities as other people because of her social status.
In the following line, she approaches Sang Woo and says, “Hey, let me play with you. Then I’ll be your dream girl all night. I’ll do anything you tell me. I’m not a regular girl.” The message is right, but the translated lines make her seem much more upfront than she actually is. She instead is saying something more along the lines of, “If you partner up with me for this game, I’ll do anything you ask. If you knew the things I would do in return, you’d be surprised.” There is no mention of her being a “dream girl all night,” which makes her character appear much more explicit and direct than she actually is.
5. Episode six: “Gganbu”
Photo: Netflix
“Gganbu always share everything with each other no matter what.”
“깐부끼리는 네 거, 내 거가 없는 거야.” (Time stamp: 55:35)
Another scene whose translation is being negatively criticized for its translation is when Gi Hun and Sang Woo take part in a game of marbles. When the two are playing, the old man reveals that he has known all along that Gi-Hun has been taking advantage of his memory loss. The old man suggests a final round of marbles, putting all the marbles on the line. According to the subtitles, he says, “Gganbu always share everything with each other no matter what.” The word “gganbu” in the series was translated by the older man; he said gganbu is, “The neighborhood friend you share marbles, ddakji, and everything with. Mine, yours doesn’t matter.” Gganbu can be referred to as being of the same team, being close comrades. The direct translation from Korean would be, “Between Gganbu, there is no yours or mine,” which is a more emotionally charged line.
The next lines, when the old man is effectively saying his goodbyes are also far more emotional in Korean. In the English translation of the subtitles, the old man says, “Thank you. You made all this… a good experience. What a great way to go.” Whereas in Korean, he says, “Thanks for the good times. Thanks to you, I had fun before I went.” As shown, the subtitles do not evoke quite the amount of emotion as is portrayed in Korean, but the music and acting were enough to send the message to the viewers.
6. Episode nine: “One Lucky Day”
Photo: Netflix
“You give money to people for a living… and you get rich doing it?
“돈을 얼마나 쉽게 벌길래 이런 짓을 하는 거야?” (Time stamp: 33:58)
In the final episode of the series, Gi Hun gets another Squid Game card, calling him to a building. Gi Hun shows up and is shocked to discover Oh Il Nam lying in bed, looking frail. Gi Hun wants to kill him, but Oh Il Nam explains that if he wants answers, he would have to let him live. One of the important questions that Gi Hun asks is translated as, “You give money to people for a living… and you get rich doing it?” This subtitle is confusing and misleading as it does not coherently flow with the actor’s previous conversation. The more fitting translation is, “How easily do you make money… that you can do something like this?” To which Il Nam replies, “Money. You know what making money is like. It’s not a simple thing to do.” This implies that Il Nam has had to work hard to earn the money he has, unlike what Gi Hun thinks.
Despite these lines and minor nuances that get lost in the translation of the subtitles, the series is still extremely effective in portraying the theme and overall message of the series — in particular the depiction of class inequality in South Korea. As a Korean and English speaker and expert in Korean pop culture, I would argue that the atmosphere of the show is accurately maintained. It would have been impossible, and unnecessary to translate every cultural subtlety in the subtitles, but what matters is that the exact vision of the creator is kept intact so that the entire world can enjoy this great series.
It took a murder and Justin Bieber to legalize Bogotá’s street art scene
Colombia has emerged from its darkest days of gang warfare and violent crime to become a compelling destination for travelers. And Bogotá’s street art scene is one of the major crowd drivers to the nation.
The Colombian civil war began to de-escalate at the beginning of this century and in 2016, a complete ceasefire was announced. Following the ceasefire, tourists flocked to the country which had once been deemed too dangerous to travel in.
Today, one of the capital city’s most captivating aspects for travelers is its colorful, chaotic, and prolific street art. Bogotá’s street art scene flourished in the 90s fuelled by the effect of the civil war along with the activities of Pablo Escobar’s notorious drug cartel. During that time, Colombia became not only a dangerous country, but also one that suffered from widespread poverty. The situation was reflected in the street art which sprung up everywhere. These days, however, in addition to art work representing political struggles, there are also plenty of whimsical and entertaining creations on the streets of Bogotá.
Bogotá Graffiti Tour
Photo: Author
One of the best ways to experience Bogotá’s street art is to sign up for the Bogotá Graffiti Tour. The free tour, which has been running since 2011, was founded by Australian street artist CRISP, who specializes in socio-political art, stencil work, and street sculptures. The rest of the team, Jay, Monica, Ana, Jeff and Carlos are a group of artists, creatives, and Bogotá experts who are passionate about Bogotá’s street art scene. Any donations received are used to reinvest in the community and create projects in Bogotá and all over Colombia.
The tour kicks off daily at Parque de los Periodistas, situated in the historical district of La Candelaria, at 10:00 AM and 2.00 PM. These tours are in English, but private tours are offered in Spanish, French, and Dutch. As well as taking in some of the area’s most significant work, the guides dive deep into the history, politics, and artists that have contributed towards making the city’s street art scene what it is today. A recent addition to the tour is a stop at the corner where teenager, Dilan Cruz, was hit by a police projectile during the anti-government demonstrations at the end of 2019. He consequently died in hospital. A piece of street art has been dedicated to him at the spot where he was hit.
The Murder of Diego Felipe BecerraStreet art in Bogotá has only been decriminalized in recent years following a tragic incident that occurred in 2011. Diego Felipe Becerra, a 16-year-old street artist, was killed by police while spray painting a wall in the neighborhood of Aguas Calientes. Diego was creating his signature motif of Felix the Cat when the police arrived. He tried to run away from the scene and was shot. The Bogotá Police attempted to cover up the shooting and falsely claimed that Diego had been involved in an armed robbery. Protests took place across the city, attended by street artists and their supporters, and Diego subsequently became a posthumous hero of Bogotá’s street art community.
Justin BieberAs strange as it seems, Justin Bieber also inadvertently contributed to the acceptance of street art in Bogotá. While he was in the city for a gig in 2013, he was escorted by police, at his request, to a wall with the intention of creating his own masterpiece. There, he proceeded to spray paint an image of the Canadian flag, replacing the maple leaf with a marijuana leaf. Anger erupted amongst the street art community, who for many years, had been forced to paint under the cover of darkness. The pop star was allowed, even encouraged, to spray paint the wall when one of their own had been murdered for doing the same thing. The following day, hundreds of artists arrived at the scene to paint over Beiber’s flag.
Justin Bieber’s street art escapade, together with Diego Becerra’s tragic death, led to the acceptance of street art by the authorities. Nowadays, street art is allowed anywhere as long as permission is given by the property owner. The government has even commissioned art across the city.
The artists
Photo: Author
Both Colombian and international artists contribute to Bogotá’s street art scene. Stinkfish, whose work is noted for its freestyle spray strokes and face stencils, is known as one of the country’s top artists. Guache is another prominent artist and is a member of the Bogota Street Art Collective. He creates colorful pieces relating to indigenous people and wildlife. Carlos Trilleras is known for his detailed fantasy figures which adorn many buildings in La Candelaria. Other prominent artists include Rodez, Pez, and DjLu. One of the few female artists is Bastardilla, whose work focuses on violence, poverty, and feminism. Many of the local artists also belong to street art collectives such as Animal Powder Crew or MAL.
Where to see the best of Bogota’s street art
Photo: Author
Avenida El DoradoUpon arriving at El Dorado, Bogotá’s international airport, the city’s passion for street art is immediately apparent. A profusion of street art and graffiti lines the main drag of Avenida El Dorado, which stretches from the airport to downtown. In fact, some of the largest and most striking pieces in the city can be seen here. On Sundays, traffic is banned and cyclists and pedestrians take to the street, giving the area a chill vibe and making it a perfect time to view the vicinity’s street art.
La Candelaria
Photo: Author
La Candelaria is a popular location for budget travelers and backpackers to stay and it also has the highest concentration of street art in the city. It is particularly abundant around Parque de los Periodistas, which also happens to be the starting point for the Bogotá Graffiti Tours. The area has an edgy vibe, but it is safe to stroll around during the day and the hilly streets of La Candelaria are home to most of the city’s finest colonial architecture. Colorful creations can be seen everywhere from hotels and storefronts to doorways and basketball courts. In fact, the owners of many of the buildings actually commission artists to decorate their properties.
Distrito GraffitiThe newest hotspot for street art is the industrial area of Puente Arande, otherwise known as Distrito Graffiti. Commissioned by the Colombian Secretary of Culture, the aim of the project is to promote the responsible practice of street art and self expression. Additionally, the hope is that the project will help change the misconception of street art as vandalism. The area covers two blocks of brick warehouses which have been painted by over one hundred street artists from all over the world. It’s an impressive sight which has brought vibrancy and purpose to a previously down-at-heel area.
The best cannabis products for when you only have a quick layover
The age of cannabis tourism has been upon us since the mid-2010s when the first states legalized recreational marijuana. A lot has changed since those early days. Most importantly, the number of states with recreational laws and the quality of the products available. Today, people can make whole weekend trips into mini cannabis vacations — even if your return destination hasn’t caught up with legalization yet. All you have to do is find the right products that will provide the right type of high without leaving you stranded with handfuls of cannabis right before you need to jet back home.
Pre-rolled joints, edibles, and vape pens are some of the best things to keep an eye out for on your travels if you only have a few days. The latter two are especially important to be familiar with if you’re not staying in a consumption-friendly accommodation (that’s where Matador’s handy first timer’s edibles guide comes in handy). Of course, few people will know the local market and regionally specific brands like your budtender, as well as the technology and ethos behind individual brands (there are a lot of disposable vape options out there, for example, but the ones using CCELL’s ceramic pen technology are sure to deliver a pleasant and consistent experience).
These are the brands and products to seek out the next time you have a long layover or a short weekend in a state with recreational cannabis.
Pre-rollsStone Road
Photo: Stone Road
There are plenty of cannabis brands with aesthetically pleasing packaging out there. Still, Stone Road stands out — and it’s one that has just as good of cannabis as it does design. It’s most known for its Eighth Pack, which has five pre-rolled, 0.7-gram joints in 99-percent plastic free packaging. For something a little stronger, opt for the hash joints, which have 0.8 grams of flower and 0.2 grams of hash. There’s a little bit of wiggle room on amount: there are singles in a glass and cork tube as well as 10 packs that have double the number of pre-rolls.
The flower itself comes from Stone Road’s biodynamic farm (meaning ladybugs, predator mites, and beneficial fungi instead of synthetic products) in Nevada City, California, located north of San Francisco near Tahoe National forest. Farm tours run from May through September and can be scheduled from the Stone Road contact page.
States: California
ViolaAl Harrington spent more than a decade in the NBA before starting Viola, which is named after his grandmother who experienced relief from glaucoma through cannabis. Today, Viola is available in multiple states and has a strong social justice and equity push behind its products. In addition to investing in communities most affected by the war on drugs, there’s the Harrington Institute, which offers classes about the industry, and the Viola Accelerator, which has the goal to create 100 Black millionaires in cannabis.
The sleek, one-gram, single-strain pre-rolls are a product you can feel good about — both because of the company’s ethos and because of its long history cultivating world-class cannabis.
States: Colorado, Oregon, California, Michigan, and Washington
Lowell
Photo: Lowell Farms/Facebook
This well-loved California company has branding that’s somewhat reminiscent of the late 2000s-early 2010s cocktail era when bars were trying to pretend they were “speakeasies” and bartenders had mustaches and suspenders. Once you get past that vibe, Lowell has a lot of good cannabis to be found. The Quicks Eighth Packs are perfect for people on the go. Ten .35-gram pre-rolls come in each pack, allowing you and your smoking buddies to get out, hit a quick personal joint, and then get back to living. As a bonus, you don’t have to go searching for a lighter when you opt for a Lowell pre-roll pack. Both the shorties and the full-sized joint packs come with the required number of matches, and you can choose from blends to single strain to hash-infused pre-rolls.
States: California
Magic HourAdriana Ruiz Carlile and Will Perry were in fashion and advertising before moving to Portland, Oregon, and starting Magic Hour Cannabis. Today, the company is one of the only minority owned producers in the state. The brand’s half-gram pre-rolls are 100-percent organic and come in five-pack boxes made of locally and sustainably sourced hemp. One special pack for travelers to keep an eye on is the two-pack that comes in half-gram joints organized by the mood you’re chasing.
States: Oregon
LEUNE
Photo: LEUNE/Facebook
Founder and CEO of LEUNE Nidhi Lucky Handa has found a way into the hearts and hands of celebrities with her sleek “cannabis 3.0” brand. Anyone looking for a quick and enjoyable high will likely do the same — especially with the Calibre two-joint, hash-infused pre-roll tin that’s the perfect product for you and a friend on a quick trip (though there are plenty of other high-quality joints of regular size and strength to choose from, too). In addition to putting out flower and stylish vapes, LEUNE works on social justice initiatives through partnerships with organizations like The Last PRisoner Project, Eaze Momentum, and the Floret Coalition.
States: California
CanndescentSometimes going all in on cannabis strains and specialties and farms with your budtender isn’t in the cards. There’s nothing wrong with just wanting an easy choice to match your desired mood. And that’s where Canndescent comes in. You won’t find bespoke strains here or marketing about hand farming every plant — the company puts front and center that it processes more than 750,000 jars of cannabis, makes about 2.5 million pre-rolls, and produces more than 37,000 pounds of cannabis every year. You will, however, find pre-rolls classified by effects like Calm (for konking out), Cruise (for letting the day pass b), Create (for the artistically inclined), Connect (to share with friends and more than friends), and Charge (for being active after). There are one-gram pre-rolls sold as singles or six-packs with 0.5-gram pre-rolls to share. For the indecisive or a group who all want different things, a variety pack of 0.5-gram pre-rolls has one of each signature effects.
States: California
EdiblesPurejuana
Photo: Purejuana
Edibles often try to hide the flavor of whatever THC extract is used. That’s often a good thing, and there’s nothing wrong with a great tasting edible that has consistent results made with a bad tasting extract. But then again, there’s something special about an edible that tastes like the heady cannabis terpenes that make flower smell so good in the first place. Purejuana’s liquid-soluble THC powder is one of the latter. The rapid onset powder is made from live cannabis that comes in 2.5, 5, and 10 milligram packs so you can dose accordingly. The brand has a list of alcohol-free Purejuana cocktails that highlight the cannabis notes, like the chill harder (hibiscus tea, grapefruit, fennel cordial, lemon juice, and Purejuana’s Venom OG) and the pure crushland (yuzu bitters, sesame syrup, lemon juice, Purejuana’s Super Lemon Haze, and Lagunitas N/A Hoppy Water). You can put it in just about anything, though, as long as it’s not mixed into a hot liquid. A personal favorite is simply a high-quality soda water with a lime garnish.
States: California
IncrediblesMatador is all about getting out and seeing the world. There are times when traveling, however, that you just need to get some sleep to fix your jet lag. The Incredibles Snoozeberry bar made with chocolate, blueberries, and rice crispies is just the fix. It has a mix of THC and CBN (another natural cannabinoid found in cannabis that will have your eyelids drooping). Many companies make great tasting edibles these days, but Incredibles has been delivering cannabis-infused candy that tastes like, well, candy since it was founded in 2010. Other bars to keep an eye out for include Black Cherry (a one-to-one mix of CBD and THC) and Monkey Bar, which is made with dark chocolate, walnuts, and freeze-dried bananas.
States: Colorado, Illinois, Nevada, Massachusetts, Maryland, and Ohio
Ripple
Photo: Ripple/Facebook
One of the most common complaints about edibles you’re likely to hear over and over again is that they’re unpredictable and take too long to set in. Not so with Ripple. The brand’s water-soluble THC powder easily dissolves into whatever drink you have on hand and blends in without adding much of any taste at all. What it does add is a quick kick of THC. Tests done by the company showed THC absorption in 15 minutes with peak absorption at one hour, making it a high that’s steady and measurable for the rapid onset you get with smoking without the smell. Plus, the discreet, pure-THC powder can be added to just about anything. Other options include a 50-50 CBD-THC mix, as well as a powder that’s 200-milligrams of CBD to 5 milligrams of THC. Quick sticks that dissolve on your tongue like Pixie Sticks are another option for those who don’t have a drink or food on hand.
States: Colorado
VapesDosistThe disposable Dose Pen 100s from Dosist conveniently come with 100, 2.5-milligram-per-drag hits — just the right amount for a fast weekend trip with a friend or two. A ceramic wick and stainless steel coil keep each hit level and consistent, and the pen is a smart choice for anyone who wants a controlled vape experience. The pen vibrates and then automatically shuts off once the 2.5-milligram inhale is complete.
States: Colorado
EurekaEureka’s disposable pens are discrete and easy to use — like other disposables there’s no button to worry about, but Eureka also manages to make a vape pen look classy. There are 500- and 300-milligram options with strain-specific terpene options whether you prefer a sativa, indica, or hybrid.
States: Colorado
England's balmy Isles of Scilly
At the southwestern tip of England, the cliffs of Land’s End appear to be where the county of Cornwall ends. In fact, 28 miles due west lie a group of islands with gin clear water, sandy beaches, hidden coves, and balmy breezes. Located far enough into the Atlantic to benefit from the warming effects of the Gulf Stream current, even palms and tropical pandanus trees grow here.
With 55 islands and islets to explore, most uninhabited, there’s a beach for everyone. From a castle to an array of traditional pubs and winding country lanes, the Isles of Scilly offer a solid slice of Englishness — history, scenery, architecture, and food — in a small, easy-to-navigate area.
Where to base yourself in Scilly
Photo: Andrew Roland/Shutterstock
The main population hub is Hugh Town on the largest island, St Mary’s. This is where you’ll find most accommodations, pubs, and eateries. And forget having to rent a car to get around. It’s bikes, golf carts, and horses. Sure, the horse trek is kept to the beaches and coastline around St Mary’s — basically your ultimate off-road “vehicle” — but the golf carts are pimped for legal road use (available through the wonderfully named Scilly Cart Co.) and the bikes and e-bikes beat walking.
If you’re looking for a place to stay on the island there are plenty of choices, from Star Castle, a 16th Century fort turned hotel, to cottages to lodges. Whether you want to stay near the harbor with eateries and boat transfers just minutes away, a headland with sweeping ocean views, or a quiet guesthouse away from the main town, you’re spoiled for choice.
The easiest way to get to these islands off the tip of Cornwall is by plane. You can on the Isles of Scilly Skybus from the southwest of England, with the flight from Exeter taking one hour, while Newquay in Cornwall takes 30 minutes. Or you could depart from Land’s End, at the edge of the Cornwall peninsula, for a 20-minute flight.
Alternatively, you can catch a ferry, which takes two hours 45 minutes, from Penzance Harbour in Cornwall. Or, more daringly and expensively, you could charter a helicopter from Penzance (15 minutes) or chopper in from London for the two-hour flight.
Outdoor adventures in Scilly
Photo: Isles of Scilly Watersports/Facebook
While being sunny and sandy, the Isles don’t lend themselves to lounging in a beach chair and snoozing. I mean sure, you could do that, but you’d be missing out on so much — such as the boat trips around St Mary’s that focus on wildlife, history, and fishing. The boats also do inter-island transfers, making it easy to do a day-trip to one of the other islands. You just need to turn up at the quay (harbor), as boats are coming and going throughout the day.
For a simpler way to enjoy the waters around St Mary’s you can go self-propelled on a standup paddle board or kayak, which you can rent for £15 ($20) per hour or £50 ($69) for the day. And if the seas are calm and clear, which is most of the time in summer, be sure to grab one of the clear SUPs (which are closer to $25 per hour) so you can see the wildlife as you float around. If the wind’s up, take sailing or windsurfing lessons.
If you’re after something a bit more active the Kernow Coasteering crew are the people to adventure with. Coasteering is a creative sport that started just north of the Isles in Wales. Don a wetsuit and helmet, bring your sense of adventure and you’ll be crawling through gullies, scrambling over boulders, and jumping off rock platforms into the sea. It’s a great excuse to act like a kid again. Highly recommended.
Quieter outdoor pursuits in Scilly
Photo: Kath Watson/Shutterstock
Though the islands occasionally bear the brunt of Atlantic-born storms in winter, they rarely get frost or snow. That warmer climate means that a variety of plants native to mild climates can thrive there, which they do at the Tresco Abbey Garden. Created nearly 200 years ago on the ruins of an old abbey, the garden is home to plants from over 80 countries as distant as New Zealand and Brazil.
Because the Isles of Scilly jut so far out into the Atlantic Ocean, they get their share of migrating birds that don’t reach the larger British Isles — making birding a popular activity here. Nearly 450 different species have been recorded there, and you can check the Isles of Scilly Bird Group for rare bird sightings.
By night, the island is also perfect for stargazing. With no light pollution the night skies are some of the darkest in the UK. And the long, low, and unobstructed views to the horizon offer a fantastic sightline to see more – notably planets. The skies are so dark the islands host an annual Dark Sky Week the first week of October.
Indoor pursuits in Scilly
Photo: Scilly Spirits/Facebook
While the Isles of Scilly don’t really get frost, they do get Atlantic storms. When there’s a turn in the weather, there are some worthwhile snug and sheltered options to while away your time while on St Mary’s. For the artsy, the Phoenix Craft Workshops host a collective of seven creative businesses under one roof. You can try your hand at everything from ceramic and silk painting to stained glass decoration, beaded jewelry, screen prints, and linocuts. All this is an easy 10-minute stroll from town.
The Scilly Spirit Distillery has also won several international awards for the design of its bottles and, more importantly, the contents therein. You can visit the distillery to enjoy samples of their aptly named Island Gin, and join a factory tour. You can also partake in their gin school, using any mix you wish of the 60 botanicals they offer — making it that extremely rare school where students look forward to indulging in their homework. Believe it or not, this small island also has a winery, a mark of how different the climate is here to the rest of England. The Holy Vale Winery has a cozy tasting room open by appointment.
History in the Isles of Scilly
Photo: Andrew Roland/Shutterstock
England is well known for its vast array of historical buildings and landmarks. The Isles of Scilly are no slouch in this department. And the ones on St Mary’s just happen to be built in the most scenic spots on the British Isles. Bant’s Carn, a burial monument dating from the Bronze Age sits atop the remnants of an Iron Age village, high on a hillside.
The building that rises above them all, literally and figuratively, is Star Castle, found on the highest point of the island. Unique in its construction, it’s the shape of an eight-pointed star and was built in 1593, at a time when the British were fearful of a Spanish invasion. These days, as is the fate for almost all beloved castles, it’s been turned into a hotel.
Yes, you can stay here for a pretty penny; it’s very much aimed at the luxury set with fine dining and luxury linens. Star Castle is open to visitors and it’s well worth the walk up the steep cobbled lane to the top of the hill to take in the view and explore the ramparts and grounds. The bar is in what were the underground cells. A case of “let them eat cake” and drink in the dungeon.
The best beaches in the Isles of Scilly
Photo: Stephen Rees/Shutterstock
You can’t talk about Scilly or the Isles of Scilly (don’t refer to it as The Scillies, as locals will scoff) without mentioning the multitude of Caribbean-esc or Maldivian-like white sand beaches. No visitors seem to be able to agree quite where to compare them to, but it doesn’t matter. If you can’t succumb to sand-induced serenity here I’m sorry, but there’s little hope for your sanity.
In summer, even when St Mary’s is buzzing with visitors, it’s not difficult to find near-empty coastal spots. In just a 2.5 mile area you’ve 11 beaches and several headlands to choose from. And if there are too many people around for your liking, it’s easy to jump on a boat for a trip to one of the other many beach-strewn islands.
Where to eat in Scilly
Photo: Dibble & Grub/Facebook
From fine dining to piping hot fish and chips wrapped in newspaper, there’s an array of eateries and pubs. Among them are Dibble and Grub, the name being a play on gardening and a hint at the local produce that goes into its tasty tapas. These morsels also benefit from the bounty from the Atlantic waters that the casual restaurant overlooks. The Mermaid Inn is the island’s most visible pub, serving up quality ales, but there are plenty of other cafes and sandwich shops as well.
Throughout the archipelago, there’s a heavy focus on fresh seafood. Lobster tails, crab, turbot, and shellfish are frequently found on the menus. As is handmade ice cream. Menus change according to seasonal availability. On the diminutive isle of Bryher, the Crab Shack serves crab, scallops, and muscles, to which you can add bread or salad. It’s closed for the winter.
Other islands to visit in Scilly
Photo: Andrew Roland/Shutterstock
All the islands are as quaint as a Wes Anderson film set, and I’d recommend a visit before he does shoot a movie here. It’s impossible not to like a place that’s famous for flowers, pristine beaches, honey, and ice cream. Here are the other isles to explore.
Bryher — The smallest inhabited island in the archipelago is home to one of the most beautiful places in the world to pitch a tent. The Bryher Campsite offers sea views from every site, has a castle close by, and if you simply turn 180 degrees you can see sunrise and sunset from the same spot. It’s small, has the basics (including nice showers), rents tents, and is run by very friendly folk.
Tresco — This car-free island is home not just to the Tresco Abbey Gardens, but to the ruins of Cromwell’s Castle, built in the 17th Century and overlooking New Grimsby harbour. Honey and spiced rum are the main products produced here.
St. Martin’s — This island hosts a renowned flower farm, winery, and plenty of secluded sandy beaches. You can snorkel with good-natured Atlantic Grey seals in the clear waters.
St Agnes — Located at the very southern tip of these isles and home to only 72 people, St. Agnes is known for its Troytown Farm ice cream made by just nine cows. It’s officially Britain’s smallest dairy but still manages to produce 30 flavors of ice cream.
The ultimate gear guide for your winter ski trip
A long ski weekend always sounds great on paper, until you realize all the ski trip gear you need to actually make it a success. Whether it’s equipment for skiing itself or essentials to take your apres-ski or lodge relaxation to the next level, preparation is crucial to having a great ski weekend. Compiling a complete list of everything you need can be a daunting task — that’s why we’ve got you covered. Before you book your first trip to the slopes this winter, make sure you check out our list of gear that’s essential for an epic ski weekend.
We hope you love the ski trip gear we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to purchase. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.
“Nailed It” Hoodie
Photo: Coalition Snow
Everyone needs a little reminder that whether they conquered the mountain or wiped out 37 times, they still “nailed it” at the end of the day. This hoodie, in addition to keeping you warm, will remind you that you’re killing it even if the mountain gets the best of you. A heavyweight sweatshirt made with organic cotton, this hoodie owns “wipe out culture” like no other, with graphics of falling skiers and boarders on the sleeves. There’s truly no better way to embrace your shortcomings than by literally wearing them on your sleeve.
Price: $65
Master Flask
Photo: REI
It might be fun to pretend that the adrenaline of racing down a mountain is enough to sustain you for the day, but it’s not. The truth is, you either have to take a long lodge break for food — and probably lose all your momentum — or rely on your old friend Jack Daniels to carry you through the day. A flask might not make you a good skier, but it’ll give you the liquid courage and energy boost to ski poorly for longer.
Price: $40
Thule RoundTrip Snowsports Duffel
Photo: REI
Nothing says versatility like a good duffel bag. This 90-liter bag is perfect for carrying ski gear like boots, helmets, and goggles, electronics like your phone, and whatever other essentials you need for a day on the mountain. It has bottom attachment loops that connect the duffel to any of Thule’s ski or snowboard bags, and a removable shoulder strap for easy transport.
Price: $139.95
Thule SnowPack 6 Ski/Snowboard Rack
Photo: REI
Any ski trip gear list would be incomplete without a ski rack, and when it comes to gear capacity — the more the merrier. This ski/snowboard rack holds six skis or four snowboards and is equipped with a smart vertical spring system to accommodate all sizes and thicknesses. There are also two sets of height extension T-rack feet, so you can raise the carrier and protect your vehicle roof when carrying skis or boards with tall bindings.
Price: $299.95
Patagonia Uprisal Sweatpants
Photo: REI
Even more important than having the best ski trip gear is being properly equipped for lounging around the cabin after the slopes. Sweatpants are as crucial for the professional sloth as skis for the professional skier. The benefit of these sweatpants is pretty simple: they’re incredibly comfortable. When your whole body is sore after spending six hours on the mountain, and all you want to do is kick back with some whiskey and a Netflix show, you’d better be dressed for the job.
Price: $69
Chaco Ramble Puff Slippers
Photo: REI
Trying to relax without slippers is like trying to do a tequila shot without a lime. Technically you can still do it, but it’s more uncomfortable than it needs to be. These water-resistant skippers serve a dual purpose — they’re perfect for lounging around the Airbnb on a cold evening, and you can also use them to venture outside to the outdoor hot tub without ruining them.
Price: $79.95
Rumpl Blanket
Photo: Rumpl
Whether you’re eager to get warm after a day shivering on the slopes or got dragged into an ill-advised winter camping trip, the Rumpl blanket is legendary for its warmth and comfort. This synthetic blanket is made from the same fabrics and insulating fibers as sleeping bags, with insulation that keeps you warm and cozy all night long. Drape it over you while you chill out on the couch, or cocoon yourself outdoors while you look up at the stars after a dip in the hot tub.
Price: $99
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There are almost 500,000 monuments in the US, and at least 22 are mermaids
A recent audit of nearly 50,000 American monuments has revealed some interesting things about the nation’s taste in public memorials.
For one, the United States has erected more monuments to mermaids than congresswomen. The nonprofit Monument Lab reported a ratio of 22:2 in favor of the mythic creature, while real-life women make up just six percent of the top 50 most commonly statued historical figures. (Those women are Joan of Arc, Sacagawea, and Harriet Tubman.)
Abraham Lincoln tops the list of honorees with 193 public memorials, according to the nonprofit’s “National Monument Audit.” George Washington (171) and Christopher Columbus (149) are next, followed by Martin Luther King Jr. with 86 memorials. King is among the 10 percent of Black or Indigenous figures represented in the top 50 honorees.
Overwhelmingly, the study concluded, the American monument landscape is dominated by white men, many of whom are associated with war and conquest. Furthermore, of the top 50 individuals most frequently cast in bronze, almost 75 percent were landowners, 50 percent enslaved other people, and 40 percent were born into wealth.
These findings come at a time when the conversation around America’s monuments is particularly controversial. In the wake of George Floyd’s murder last May, numerous memorials commemorating Confederate soldiers and other racist figures have been torn down, and the legitimacy of countless others has been questioned.
As the debate around which historical figures deserve to be publicly memorialized, the Monument Lab’s report did leave room for optimism. Among its key takeaways is the fact that public memorials in the United States have always been subject to change, and that change is necessary to ensure the nation’s monuments accurately represent its history.
Fortunately, these changes are already underway. In addition to local campaigns targeting problematic memorials across the country, the Andrew J. Mellon Foundation, which funded the National Audit, has also funded Monument Lab’s next big undertaking: a project called Re:Generation that will give 10 teams $100,000 each to transform the nation’s current commemorative landscape.
According to the nonprofit’s website, “projects that have the potential to shift local and regional narratives, particularly in contexts where interventions into the commemorative landscape could foster wider transformations” are especially encouraged.
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