Matador Network's Blog, page 564
October 13, 2021
The most beautiful historic sites in Savannah, Georgia
Established in 1733 after General Oglethorpe and the passengers of the ship Anne landed on Yamacraw Bluff, Savannah, Georgia is well-known as America’s first planned city. With a rich background that’s as tangible as the city’s thick humidity — impossible not to feel — Savannah is brimming with stories of the past. To more deeply understand the powerful history first-hand, stroll among the quaint and quiet streets, find solace beneath the shade of majestic oak trees, and immerse yourself in incredible architecture that takes you back centuries. Here are the most important historic sites in Savannah.
Savannah Historic District
Photo: Voyage Photography
The largest National Historic Landmark District in the United States, Savannah’s Historic District is distinguished by a grid pattern known as the Oglethorpe Plan. Consistently lauded as America’s most walkable city, this is an ideal location to start your itinerary. As you explore the 22 remaining oak-lined squares, or “wards”, you’ll come across historic points of interest and lush green landscaping at nearly every turn.
First African Baptist Church
Photo: Voyage Photography
Older than the United States, First African Baptist Church was organized in 1773 by Reverend George Liele and recognized as an official place of worship in 1777. Recorded with the National Registry of Historic Landmarks and Places, it’s the oldest Black church in the nation. With over 200 years of history preserved, artifacts still on the premises include an archive room going as far back as the 1800s, original pews handmade by the enslaved, the oldest pipe organ in Georgia, and a congregation-erected edifice that has been standing since 1859.
Playing an important role in the Underground Railroad, take a guided tour to learn how Deacon Haynes actively helped enslaved people escape on their journey towards freedom. Especially moving are the ventilation holes made in the shape of a BaKongo Cosmogram — an African prayer symbol signifying birth, life, death, and rebirth — found in the original floorboards under which escapees took refuge.
Wormsloe State Historic Site
Photo: Voyage Photography
One of the most photographed historic sites in Savannah, over 400 live oaks draped with Spanish moss line both sides of the mile-long avenue leading to Wormsloe State Historic Site — the estate belonging to Noble Jones, who was one of the original colonists that came to Savannah with General Oglethorpe in 1733. Visit the on-site museum and gift shop to watch a short film, or follow a walking trail to see the 18th-century tabby ruins and original burial ground of the Jones family.
Forsyth Park
Photo: Voyage Photography
Inspired by picturesque Parisian parks, in 1858 a spectacular fountain surrounded by a wrought-iron gate was added to the north end of Forsyth Park. It remains one of the most recognized sights in Savannah, despite decades of updates having altered its original appearance.
Lining the perimeter of the 30-acre park are mature oak trees shading walking paths and benches. Find a seat to people-watch, or listen to the soothing sound of the water as it sprays over the statues. For another sensory experience, meander to the west side of the park where you’ll be enveloped by the aromas of the fragrance garden, designed for the visually impaired.
Bonaventure Cemetery
Photo: Voyage Photography
If you only have time to visit one cemetery while in Savannah, make it Bonaventure Cemetery, translated from Italian to mean “good fortune”. Eerily beautiful, live oaks are abundant through the cemetery’s 160 acres, accented by colorful azaleas in the Springtime.
Made famous by the iconic Bird Girl statue seen on the cover of John Berendt’s novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (since moved to Telfair Museum), take an enchanting walk through the sculptures, monuments, and tombstones.
Photo: Voyage Photography
While the land was privately purchased in 1846, in 1907 it opened to the public and now serves as the final resting place of several noteworthy figures. Academy Award-winning songwriter Johnny Mercer, Little Gracie Watson, and Georgia’s first governor Edward Telfair, are just a few of the most-visited gravesites. Explore at your own pace, or take one of the numerous guided tours offered for a more in-depth adventure.
The Olde Pink House
Photo: The Olde Pink House/Facebook
Located on Reynolds Square in Savannah’s Historic District, construction of the Habersham House began in 1771, eventually becoming the location of covert meetings that contributed to the sovereignty of the 13 colonies. When the infamous Savannah fires of 1796 destroyed over 200 buildings, Habersham House luckily survived. In 1811, it became known as Planters Bank — Georgia’s first bank.
Though this establishment has changed hands numerous times and was once neglected, it’s since been restored to its original beauty. Why pink? It certainly wasn’t intentional. The structure was built with red bricks and covered in white plaster. Due to poor quality, the red continuously bled through, changing the exterior from white to Jamaican pink. While frustrated owners continued to cover up the pink with white paint, the color has been embraced since a change of ownership in the 1920s, thus The Olde Pink House is known for its signature hue.
Currently, a restaurant, it’s a great spot for drinks in the basement tavern or an elegant dinner on their main floor. The cast-iron bank vaults have been transformed into a wine cellar and private dining area for two. To this day, it’s said that the friendly ghost of James Habersham Jr. frequently haunts The Olde Pink House — and he’s not alone. While there are various spirits known to make appearances, common are apparitions of enslaved children who passed from yellow fever, amusing themselves by playing tricks like locking occupants in restrooms and knocking over wine bottles.
Owens-Thomas House
Photo: Voyage Photography
Built in 1819, visitors can take a self-led audio tour of the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, a National Historic Landmark. The same ticket will provide access to two other historic sites in Savannah through Telfair Museums. The additional museums are only a five to ten-minute walk away.
Recognizing all persons that occupied this property, the tour at Owens-Thomas House not only addresses the disparity between the enslavers and enslaved but depicts daily life of enslaved people in depth. You’ll be able to view intact living quarters for enslaved people, browse the parterre garden, and walk through the mansion and carriage house owned for 121 years by the Owens family. 
Best family-friendly Airbnbs in America’s most popular Christmas cities
Holiday tradition usually dictates staying home for a large gathering with the extended family. But let’s be honest — we haven’t traveled in a while, especially last winter, and most of us are long overdue for a family vacation. This holiday season, when the kids are on school break, is the perfect time to do it. Celebrating the holidays away from home can be an exciting prospect, but it also begs the question: where do we go? Well, the country’s most popular Christmas cities are a good place to start. New York City, Santa Claus, Williamsburg, Park City, and Santa Barbara are the most sought-after destinations in the US for the holidays, and these are the family-friendly Christmas Airbnbs that should be on your booking radar.
We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.
New York City, New York Cottage on the beach
Photo: Airbnb
Staying in New York City proper isn’t exactly budget-friendly, nor does it evoke the kind of cozy holiday cheer you’ve seen in all those Hallmark movies. Instead, head to Howard Beach in Queens to feel like you’ve completely escaped urban life. This spacious cottage on the water has a large lounge area, dining room, and porch overlooking the lake. There’s also a TV with a free Netflix account, complimentary snacks, and a second bedroom with two beds that are perfect for children.
Price: $233 per night
Camp Stardust lakefront cabin
Photo: Airbnb
The name of this property makes it sound pretty magical, and luckily, it doesn’t disappoint in person. For families looking to fully escape the stressful grind of the city, the Camp Stardust cabin is located a healthy four hours north of New York City in the woods of Piseco. You’ll be right on the water with only wildlife for neighbors. The cabin has an open and spacious floor plan, cathedral ceilings, a TV room, fireplace, and both indoor and outdoor speakers. The cabin’s walls are almost entirely composed of windows, so you’ll always have impeccable views of the surrounding winter wonderland. And of course, you could always venture into the wilderness by going snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or snowmobiling.
Price: $354 per night
Williamsburg, VirginiaCottage from 1918
Photo: Airbnb
Nothing captures the spirit of the holiday season like traveling back to a simpler time. We can decorate our homes all we like for Christmas, but nothing beats going back to the 1700s and strolling around William’s cobbled streets in the snow. The 1918 Williamsburg Cottage is equipped with modern amenities but sits just minutes from Colonial Williamsburg and the Jamestown Settlement, where your family can really plunge into the ghosts of Christmas past.
Price: $136 per night
Cozy Williamsburg cabin
Photo: Airbnb
This cabin combines the rustic coziness of rural life with the joys of living in a historic city center. Just minutes away from Colonial Williamsburg in a wooded setting, the cabin sleeps six guests, with bunk beds for the kids. There’s also a heated pool, a deck, plenty of outdoor space, and access to nearby nature trails.
Price: $208 per night
Park City, UtahCozy log cabin south of Park CityPhoto: Airbnb
Park City is renowned as one of the country’s most popular ski destinations, so it should be no surprise that families are flocking here around Christmas. Located just south of Park City in the more affordable Brighton, and nestled among the pine trees, this ski-in/ski-out log cabin has a huge fireplace that will make you think you’re in a ski lodge, a balcony, outdoor fire pit, and books and toys for children. It’s also just a 10-minute walk from the Brighton Ski Resort.
Price: $299 per night
Modern and chic condo
Photo: Airbnb
This modern condo combines all the benefits of contemporary living with a rustic mountain aesthetic. Accommodating eight guests in three bedrooms, the condo has a massive pitched skylight that bathes the spacious living room in natural light. There’s also a white stone fireplace, a full kitchen, and convenient door-to-door shuttle service from Deer Valley Snow Park Lodge.
Price: $400 per night
Santa Barbara, CaliforniaHome in the heart of Santa Barbara
Photo: Airbnb
California doesn’t exactly scream Christmas, but that’s kind of the point, right? Not everyone wants a white Christmas. Some of us just want to leave our ugly sweaters at home and escape to the beach. It’s no wonder, then, that Santa Barbara is one of the country’s most popular Christmas vacation destinations. This ideally-located home is right in the heart of the city, sleeping seven people in three bedrooms, and is just a block away from the beach. It’s within easy walking distance of Santa Barbara’s main attractions, including the popular Funk Zone boutique dining district.
Price: $375 per night
Classic and colorful Santa Barbara cottage
Photo: Airbnb
This cottage truly captures the colorful, artsy, and independent vibe of California. Built in 1915, the Victorian cottage has an intimate feel yet comfortably accommodates six people in its cozy, eccentric rooms. The interior is defined by African Colonial decor reflecting the owner’s trips to Africa, and it’s conveniently located just a block from the Saturday Farmer’s Market, and two blocks from the cafes, shopping, and theaters of State Street. There’s also a game table with chess, backgammon, and a decks of cards, and a TV equipped with Netflix to keep the family entertained.
Price: $303 per night
Santa Claus, IndianaResidential home in the heart of town
Photo: Airbnb
Santa Claus, Indiana is indisputably one of the most Christmassy towns in the country. It’s home to the Santa Claus Museum and Village, the 1880 Santa Claus Church, and the Santa Claus Post Office, which fields thousands of Santa letters each year. This three-bedroom home is the ideal base from which to explore the holiday-themed town. Sleeping nine guests, the house is large enough for the whole family and located conveniently close to all the town’s Santa attractions.
Price: $125 per night
Log cabin with waterfront views
Photo: Airbnb
If you prefer a little distance from the Santa Claus gimmick, while still having easy driving access into town, this cabin on Yellow Banks Lake is perfect. Just 20 minutes from Santa Claus, this cozy log cabin sits right on a pond and offers your family a more intimate holiday experience. It has all the amenities you’d expect, though without the frills, and sleeps five people in a bedroom loft.
Price: $150 per night
More like thisWhere to StayThese 7 properties from ‘The World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals’ are available on AirbnbOctober 12, 2021
You have to see how A$AP Ferg and Jaylen Brown have redesigned Harlem’s Rucker Park
Rapper A$AP Ferg has once again given back to his hometown and redesigned one of Harlem’s most infamous places, Greg Marius Court at Holcombe Rucker Park.
The rapper teamed up with the NBA Players Association (NBPA) and the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation to redesign the park. A$AP Ferg also had help from Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown.
Ferg was called upon to redesign the court, and the rapper had many ideas in mind, but Jaylen is what inspired him to do the court based on the Mayans.
“We was on the phone for hours because I just really was diving for inspiration… He was telling me the history of basketball and he told me about the Mayans,” said Ferg at the grand opening. “They had this court game where they had a stone wall and the hoop was on the side and they played with a stone ball and they would like, play to death. Basketball was the evolution of that. Doing the research of the essence of this, I stumbled upon a word, Xibalba, which means a place of fright.”
View this post on InstagramA post shared by A$AP Ferg (@asapferg)
Athletes and celebrities like Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson, Kyrie Irving, and Fat Joe have all played on the Rucker Park Basketball Court. Renovations for the court began on August 26, including new scoreboards and backboards, bleachers, upgraded pavement, asphalt, new paint on the court, and custom baskets donated by Spaulding.
Introducing the new @NYCParks Greg Marius Court at Holcombe Rucker Park.
Funded by the NBPA, the renovation of Greg Marius Court at Holcombe Rucker Park began in late August with the intention of preserving the rich history of the park. pic.twitter.com/5OKiw4bYTI
— NBPA (@TheNBPA) October 9, 2021
Special guests like rapper Fat Joe who grew up playing on this court, and NBA legend Julius “Dr. J” Erving attended the ribbon cutting on October 9. This park is more than just a redesign, it’s a place that has started many careers of the athletes we know today.
“The basketball players, the kids that are aspiring to be in the N.B.A. or just love the game who may live in the vicinity of the park and may not fully appreciate its history, and if that’s the case, then we hope that this project will revive the history,” said Corey Williams commentator for the Australian National Basketball Leauge in a statement to the New York Times. “We’ll be telling the history.”
Holcombe Rucker Park gets a new life with a redesign
Rapper A$AP Ferg has once again given back to his hometown and redesigned one of Harlem’s most infamous places, Greg Marius Court at Holcombe Rucker Park.
The rapper teamed up with the NBA Players Association (NBPA) and the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation to redesign the park. A$AP Ferg also had help from Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown.
Ferg was called upon to redesign the court, and the rapper had many ideas in mind, but Jaylen is what inspired him to do the court based on the Mayans.
“We was on the phone for hours because I just really was diving for inspiration… He was telling me the history of basketball and he told me about the Mayans,” said Ferg at the grand opening. “They had this court game where they had a stone wall and the hoop was on the side and they played with a stone ball and they would like, play to death. Basketball was the evolution of that. Doing the research of the essence of this, I stumbled upon a word, Xibalba, which means a place of fright.”
View this post on InstagramA post shared by A$AP Ferg (@asapferg)
Athletes and celebrities like Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson, Kyrie Irving, and Fat Joe have all played on the Rucker Park Basketball Court. Renovations for the court began on August 26, including new scoreboards and backboards, bleachers, upgraded pavement, asphalt, new paint on the court, and custom baskets donated by Spaulding.
Introducing the new @NYCParks Greg Marius Court at Holcombe Rucker Park.
Funded by the NBPA, the renovation of Greg Marius Court at Holcombe Rucker Park began in late August with the intention of preserving the rich history of the park. pic.twitter.com/5OKiw4bYTI
— NBPA (@TheNBPA) October 9, 2021
Special guests like rapper Fat Joe who grew up playing on this court, and NBA legend Julius “Dr. J” Erving attended the ribbon cutting on October 9. This park is more than just a redesign, it’s a place that has started many careers of the athletes we know today.
“The basketball players, the kids that are aspiring to be in the N.B.A. or just love the game who may live in the vicinity of the park and may not fully appreciate its history, and if that’s the case, then we hope that this project will revive the history,” said Corey Williams commentator for the Australian National Basketball Leauge in a statement to the New York Times. “We’ll be telling the history.”
You can probably afford that dream African safari, here is how.
These few simple hacks help you save money on an African safari.
A lone elephant crosses an acacia tree on the Serengeti plain, it’s the stuff of safari dreams that you think you can’t afford. Think again. While it is true that the average 10-day safari can run into the tens of thousands of dollars there are simple hacks to bring the cost way down. Focusing on one region, spending time in urban areas, and traveling when others aren’t are great ways to fit safaris into any budget. Let go of the idea that an African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime trip and plan the one you can afford now.
We hope you love the gear we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.
Shorten your staySafaris are often marketed as two-week adventures to numerous parks and possibly a few countries. Three or four nights in a carefully selected park or reserve will have you spotting the Big Five in no time. Sandwich that safari with trips to coastal destinations like Durban, Lamu Island, or Zanzibar and stay a few nights in the city where you land: “The biggest mistake travelers make when planning an African safari is skipping the cities. Whether it’s the bespoke shopping experiences in Kigali, the craft drink and street food scene in Nairobi, gallery visits in Johannesburg, or checking out the nightlife in Entebbe, a stay in Africa’s urban centers is always a good idea,” says Naledi Khabo, CEO of the African Tourism Association.
Stay in just one park
Photo: GraemeShannon/Shutterstock
The more you move around (especially by bush plane) the higher the cost. Slow down your trip and get to know one area, see what your favorite animals are doing over multiple days. It is fascinating to witness what happens to a lion kill over three days while noting the different animals that feed off it before there is nothing left. Staying in one camp longer will offer a complete experience as you can replace a game drive with a bushwalk or stay back in camp to enjoy the view and see what animals happen by.
Go greenGreen season (when it’s raining) in East Africa is April and May and November through to April in Southern Africa. While that may sound like a bad time to travel there are advantages including lush landscapes, no dust, and fewer crowds. The main draw is that lodge rates are a fraction of the cost. Asilia Africa’s Oliver’s Camp goes for over $800 per person per night in high season but can be booked for just over $400 per person per night in green season.
Take the road less traveled
Photo: Asilia Africa / Dunia Camp
The Masai Mara, Kruger National Park, and Serengeti are the usual go-to for travelers, for good reason, but there are wildlife areas all over the continent to be explored: “I’d recommend Marakele National Park, a hidden gem in northern South Africa; Tarangire in Tanzania for an easy driving circuit; or Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda,” says Johhny Prince, founder of Timbuktu Travel, a travel company that allows you to build – and budget – your dream safari.
Go campingPlease don’t do this by yourself on your first trip — really don’t. Not only is it unsafe, but the chances of seeing great wildlife without a trained guide are also slim. Most national parks offer self-drive options and have designated fenced campgrounds. Overland-style safaris are a great way to camp with a group or guide.
Don’t spend too much on gearWhile you may think you need to look the part, you don’t have to be decked out in different shades of khaki the whole time, but do avoid black, red, and blue during the day lest you become a fly magnet. And unless you are an experienced photographer, leave pricey gear, like the massive camera lens, to the pros and try this great starter camera. Safari involves a lot of sitting so technical boots and vests with a bunch of pockets aren’t needed, try these hiking sneakers. Your guide probably has binos for you, but if you want to bring your own, bring these. It can get cold at night so a good fleece and windbreaker will be your friend. Pack as light as possible with a soft-sided duffle or backpack as the best option, especially if your trip involves a small plane.
Important to note about safari pricing: It’s hard to book on your own and many lodge companies will kick your query back to a travel agent so you might as well start working with oneSafari pricing is mostly all-inclusive and will include all your meals, drinks, and most activitiesPricing is per person and you may get an up-charge if traveling alonePark fees, conservation charges, etc will often be added to your rate so make sure you understand all costs before heading outMore like thisTravel6 things you need to know before going on a safari in Kenya
If you like hiking and you like beer, Washington State is the place to be
Beer hiking is a way of life in Washington. With over 400 breweries in the state and countless hiking trails, opportunities to pair hikes and pints are endless. Seeking saltwater, lake, river, mountain, or desert canyon views? You’ll find it here, not far from the nearest brewery. And since 75 percent of the nation’s hops are grown in Washington’s Yakima Valley, you can expect fresh, hoppy brews statewide. Here are five favorite beer hikes in Washington State.
Each of these Washington hiking trails is within 10 miles of the nearest beer, so you won’t have to drive far for refreshment. Check trip reports from Washington Trails Association before heading out for current road and trail conditions.
1. Hike: Ebey’s Landing on Whidbey Island
5 miles roundtrip, 300 feet elevation gain
Photo: 2009fotofriends/Shutterstock
Drive or take the ferry to Washington’s largest island for a windswept bluffs-to-beach hike at Ebey’s Landing. This five-mile lollipop loop begins in prairie and passes by National Historical Reserve structures before making a beeline to the Salish Sea. Once you reach the bluffs, head in either direction to complete the circuit. Most folks turn right at the junction (about 0.75 miles from the upper trailhead) to climb higher on the bluffs before descending via switchbacks to the beach. Whichever way you choose, you’ll be rewarded with 200-foot high blufftop views to the Olympic Peninsula.
Use the upper parking lot at the end of Cemetery Road for free parking. Additional parking is available at the beach parking lot off Ebey’s Landing Road; there, you’ll need a Washington State Discover Pass to park.
Beer: Penn Cove Brewing
Photo: Penn Cove Brewing Company/Facebook
Located just 1.5 miles from the Ebey’s Landing trailhead, Penn Cove Brewing’s Coupeville taproom is within walking distance. Stop by for weekday happy hour and a solid lineup of beers — from the flagship Madrona Way IPA to seasonal stouts. Of course, this hike is best paired with Ebey’s Special Bitter if it’s on tap.
Penn Cove has three locations on Whidbey Island. If you’re heading north, check out their Oak Harbor taproom. South of Coupeville, Penn Cove’s newest location in Freeland offers a sprawling lawn and rooftop seating.
2. Hike: Cowiche Canyon Trails in Yakima
6 miles roundtrip, minimal elevation gain
Photo: Michelle Baumbach/Shutterstock
Over the Cascade Mountains in Central Washington, the Yakima Valley is a beer hiker’s paradise during shoulder season. Wildflowers color the desert trails in spring; fall brings foliage and fresh hop brews. The nonprofit Cowiche Canyon Conservancy manages over 30 miles of trails here. Check their site for maps and info, then head out on the six-mile round trip Cowiche Canyon Trail. This wide, flat trail follows Cowiche Creek as it winds beneath towering andesite and basalt canyon walls.
Optional side trails lead to the Uplands, or you can make your car do the climbing. The trailhead off Scenic Drive offers panoramic valley views from the get-go, with various Uplands trails leading to the canyon rim. The Uplands trails are generally well-signed, but it’s worthwhile to download the Cowiche Canyon – Uplands Map.
Beer: Cowiche Creek Brewing
Photo: Cowiche Creek Brewing Company/Facebook
With a dozen or so breweries in the Yakima Valley, it’s tough to choose just one. Cowiche Creek Brewing wins out for Cowiche Canyon hikers due to its trailhead proximity, gorgeous grounds, and stellar brews. Located on a 45-acre hilltop barley and hops farm, Cowiche Creek’s tiny taproom and park-like outdoor space are just a few miles from the Cowiche Canyon West Trailhead. Sample any and all of their rustic, hop-forward brews. Visit during Yakima’s annual Fresh Hop Festival in early October for the freshest hops available anywhere.
3. Hike: Lookout Mountain in Twisp
3 miles roundtrip, 1,100 feet elevation gain
Photo: Marina Poushkina/Shutterstock
For a relatively quick and uncrowded fire lookout hike in Washington, head to the Methow Valley. Perched at 5,500 feet in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Lookout Mountain Lookout was built in the 1930’s. It still towers over Twisp today with 360-degree mountain and valley views. The dirt road up can be rough, so check trip reports before heading out. After the drive, it’s a short, steep climb through forest and seasonal wildflower meadows to the top. Make sure to bring plenty of water, and consider hiking during late spring or early summer for the best conditions. This area can get extremely hot (and often smokey) during midsummer.
Beer: Old Schoolhouse Taproom
Photo: Old Schoolhouse Brewery Taproom/Facebook
Post-hike, backtrack six miles down the road to the town of Twisp. Old Schoolhouse Brewing, whose main brewpub is located nine miles up Highway 20 in Winthrop, operates a taproom at the TwispWorks cooperative space. This laid-back spot serves boozy Imperial IPAs, stouts, and all manner of award-winning brews. Try whatever seasonal you can get your hands on. Alternatively, head north to the main brewpub in Winthrop for a full food menu and even more beer options — all served in an adorable old schoolhouse building on the Chewuch River.
4. Hike: Beacon Rock in the Columbia River Gorge
2 miles roundtrip, 600 feet elevation gain
Photo: Simone Hogan/Shutterstock
Cut from the core of an ancient volcano, Beacon Rock rises from the banks of the Columbia like a formidable fortress. This rail-lined trail climbs 52 switchbacks to an 848-foot summit — all in one short, winding mile. You’ll take in sweeping river views as you zig-zag up the rock, peering out over Pierce and Ives islands and across the Columbia River to Oregon. There’s no other hike quite like it in the Gorge. Beacon Rock is located in a Washington State Park, so you’ll need a Discover Pass for parking. While you’re there, consider extending your hike with a longer trek to Hardy Ridge or Hardy and Rodney Falls.
Beer: Walking Man Brewing
Photo: Walking Man Brewing/Facebook
You’ll find stand-up beer just 9.5 miles upriver in the town of Stevenson. Inspired by European pub culture, Walking Man Brewing was established as a small-town community hub in 1999. Over 20 years later, this classic Columbia River Gorge brewpub is still standing strong. “Brewed in celebration of being erect for 2 million years,” their Homo Erectus Imperial IPA is all you’ll need to wind down after a hike. Walking Man’s location near the Pacific Crest Trail makes it a favorite stop for beer hikers throughout the region.
5. Hike: Chanterelle Trail in Bellingham
4.8 miles roundtrip, 1,000 feet elevation gain
Photo: Jaime Pharr/Shutterstock
This forested trail winds up Stewart Mountain’s slopes to an overlook 1,000 feet above Lake Whatcom. Opened in 2018, the moderately-paced Chanterelle Trail is already a local favorite in Lake Whatcom Park. At the overlook, enjoy expansive views across Lake Whatcom to Lookout Mountain, Bellingham Bay, and beyond. Fancy a dip in the lake? Back at the Chanterelle trailhead, follow a short connecter path down to the Hertz Trail on Lake Whatcom’s shore. This flat trail runs 3 miles (one-way) along the lakeshore and will eventually connect to the Chanterelle Trail for a lake-to-overlook loop.
Parking is free at Lake Whatcom Park. Navigate to “North Lake Whatcom Trail” for Chanterelle Trail access, or “Lake Whatcom Park” for the Hertz Trail.
Beer: Otherlands Beer
Photo: Otherlands Beer/Facebook
Drive 10 miles back to Bellingham for a beer experience like no other. Opened in 2020, Otherlands Beer has swiftly found its place in the Bellingham beer scene. Delicate, sessionable beers rotate often here, but there’s always a rustic lager, saison, and pale ale or IPA on tap. These farmhouse ales pair perfectly with Otherlands’ ever-changing food menu. Come for the beer and stay for a meal of pierogies, latkes, and other Eastern European-inspired foods in this cozy cafe.
My boyfriend refuses to get vaccinated so we can’t travel together
We had a plan. When Jaimie would be able to book his vacation days for next year, he’d take a few weeks off in January for us to go to St. Barth.
St. Barth was the perfect vacation compromise for us. The sunshine and beaches for me; the island’s unusual, busy airport for him. I’m a swimmer and an ocean-lover and Jaimie is a plane spotter with a successful YouTube channel. We’d be able to enjoy a vacation together, he’d get some great content, and I’d have the best tan of my life. Win, win, win.
We started talking about this vacation at the end of 2020. Jaimie was working overtime and purposely collecting days off to spend as much time in the French Caribbean as possible. We both thought that by the time 2022 rolled around, the COVID-19-related travel restrictions would be a thing of the past.
What we did not anticipate was the vaccine passport.
Jaimie and I live in British Columbia, Canada, where a strict Vaccine Card policy has been in effect since September 13. Like in many other parts of the world, in BC, proof of vaccination is required for dining and drinking venues, fitness facilities, entertainment venues such as movie theaters and casinos, performing arts centers, sports arenas, venues facilitating team sports and classes, and organized events like weddings. And by October 30, 2021, anybody willing to travel on a plane or train within Canada will need to be fully vaccinated.
None of this is an issue for me. I got my first shot of Pfizer in May and my second injection in August. I’m set. I’ve already traveled to Europe, to visit my family and enjoy some time off work.
However, it’s a problem for Jaimie who remains unvaccinated to this day.
Jaimie is not a conspiracy theorist, he is not a Trumpist, he is not a right-wing nutter. His decision to delay his vaccination is not political. Jaimie has not gotten the vaccine yet because he has doubts. He reads the news that says the vaccine loses its efficiency after a few months and asks himself if waiting for a vaccine with longer-lasting protection is the way to go. He reads that vaccinated people can still get ill, albeit rarely seriously, and wonders, as a healthy man in his early 30s, if he would get seriously ill with or without the shot. He reads that vaccinated people can still transmit COVID-19. He waits because he has misgivings. He wears his masks and respects the social distancing precautions. He does not behave like COVID-19 does not exist and he does not wish to endanger people. He just needs some time.
I don’t want to be in the business of telling people what to do, especially when their health is concerned. I love my partner and respect his decision because it’s not based on fake news and it’s not political nonsense. If he were to tell me what to do with my own health, I’d tell him off. His body, his choice is my line of thought.
Unfortunately for me, Jaimie is far from the only member of my family to be unvaccinated. My parents, both retired nurses, are not vaccinated yet. My brother isn’t either. All three of them are scared. “This vaccine is too new. Every medical act has possible consequences and we don’t know just yet what they will be of this particular inoculation,” my parents say.
I’m not scared, I believe in science, but I didn’t want to attack them with facts and ruin our time together. I do want them to be able to come visit me in Canada, but I can’t force their hand.
While in Europe, I faced the same issue with my parents as I did with my partner — we couldn’t go to the restaurant together or grab a cup of coffee on an outdoor patio. Everyone needs a health pass in my home country, even to access the library. With a rapid test done at the pharmacy for 29 Euros (about $34), they were able to obtain a temporary, 72-hour health pass. That way, we took a three-day seaside vacation to a spa hotel and treated ourselves to meals at the restaurant. This option is not available in British Columbia.
January 2022 is a few months away and maybe, by then, Jaimie will have taken the plunge or been forced to get vaccinated through his work. In the meantime, we can’t plan our Caribbean vacation any further. It sucks, but that’s not my primary concern.
What’s on my mind these days is that anxiety-filled separation that so many of us felt only a few months back, when travel was almost entirely forbidden. That is, if something happens to one of my family members in Europe, he won’t be able to come with me. I won’t have him by my side. And if something happens to me, my family won’t be here either.
You can now ride in this train that Wes Anderson designed himself
There are a ton of great train journeys you can take to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in the UK, but few are as beautiful inside as this train designed by Wes Anderson.
Photo: Belmond
If you’ve seen any movie directed by Wes Anderson (or checked out the Accidentally Wes Anderson book), then you know he has a very particular aesthetic that’s symmetrical, colorful, motif-heavy, and full of retro compositions. Anderson brought all those signature elements together to remodel the 1950s Cygnus carriage of the iconic British Pullman train. The few photos made available by Belmond, the railway company that operates the British Pullman, show an exceptionally elegant space.
Photo: Belmond
“I have often had the chance to invent train compartments and carriages in my movies,” Anderson told Belmond. “So I was very eager to make something new while also participating in the process of preservation which accompanies all the classic Belmond train projects. They are keeping something special alive. An endangered species of travel which is nevertheless very suited to our time.”
Photo: Belmond
Anderson’s train carriage is filled with green textiles adorned with small motifs for the curtains, carpets, and the seats. The walls and furniture have a heavy Art Deco influence, with geometrical marquetry and shiny wood panels. One touch of eccentricity that Wes Anderson fans will appreciate is the pink ceiling reminiscent of the stunning color of the The Grand Budapest Hotel.
Photo: Belmond
Belmond is a luxury rail company that offers train trips around the world. The British Pullman runs only in Britain and is a great way to enjoy an elegant throwback to the golden age of train travel. This October, you can ride in the train carriage designed by Wes Anderson from London to the historic city of Bath and back to London again, or take a Champagne afternoon tea on board from London through the countryside and back. There are new trips every month, including Christmas-themed train journeys in November and December. Trips start at £400 (around $540).
Priceline’s epic flight sale in celebration of William Shatner’s spaceflight
To celebrate William Shatner’s mission into space this Wednesday, Priceline are offering flight deals that are out of this world.
William Shatner, Star Trek’s Captain Kirk and face of travel deals as the Priceline Negotiator, will be the oldest man to go to space and to celebrate this achievement, Priceline is having its “biggest flight sale ever.”
Shatner, aged 90, will be part of a four-person crew on the New Shepard NS-18 which will launch Wednesday, October 13 at 9:30 AM ET. Priceline will begin its 30-minute flight flash sale at the same moment as launch time.
The first 1,000 customers who book an Express Deal and pay a minimum of $300 can save $200 if they use the code BLASTOFF200. This deal will end at 10:00 AM ET or when the capacity is reached.
If you happen to miss the narrow window, don’t worry because Priceline will continue its biggest flight sale ever with $100 off Express Deals using the code BLASTOFF100. This also has a stipulation of a $300 minimum spend and will end at 11:59 PM ET.
To score yourself a hot deal with Priceline’s “biggest flight sale ever,” you can visit their website for more details.
The Napa Wine Train is bringing you holiday spirit from Halloween through New Year’s Eve
Fine wine and train rides are two things that simply go well together. All you have to do is look to the The Napa Valley Wine Train for proof of that (or the Grapevine, Texas, wine train, for that matter). This year, the premier wine drinking train in America’s premier wine destination is coming into the fall season with a lineup of holiday themed trips.
The track (36 miles round-trip) is located about 50 miles northeast of San francisco and was originally built in 1864 to shuttle people to the resorts in Calistoga. It starts in downtown Napa and passes 33 world-class vineyards, so you know there are views aplenty. The Napa Valley Wine Train has been steadily running as a passenger train to wineries since 1989. These days, as if the wine on restored antique train cars wasn’t a draw enough, intricate themes onboard match the season.
Here’s what the Napa Valley Wine Train has lined up for the rest of 2021:
Murder Mystery Tour: The Murder Mystery Company, which is the largest theatrical company in the country, is climbing aboard every weekend in October. They’ll host a two-hour wizards and witches murder mystery that people solve in between a multi-course gourmet meal (and yes, you can wear your own witch or wizard costume).
Thanksgiving ride: Skip laboring in the kitchen this Thanksgiving and instead leave it to the Wine Train chefs. Pumpkin bisque, turkey, rosemary and cracked black pepper beer, ricotta cheese gnocchi, and pumpkin-white chocolate mousse are on the menu. Naturally, you can expect a wine pairing better than the random assortment of bottles and boxes at your in-laws house.
Jingle + Mingle winter holiday rides: The Napa Valley Wine Train does it right and waits until after Thanksgiving to celebrate the December holidays. Starting November 25, the train is decked out in lights and holiday inspired cocktails (think: hot cider) join the drinks list. On December 18, 19, 23, and 24, musical acts and carolers will perform outside of the train station from 9:30 to 11 AM.
A Journey to the New Year: Bid adieu to the strange year of 2021 with an indulgent lunch. The afternoon service on the Gourmet Express and Vista Dome trains with have an upgraded menu on December 31, as well as a sparkling wine toast to warm you up for the bigger New Year toast later.
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