Matador Network's Blog, page 572

You can stay in the original SCREAM house for the ultimate spooky season adventure

If you’re the ultimate scary movie fan, we have great news — the iconic SCREAM franchise is coming to theaters in January 2022. But if you’re lucky and have $5, you can celebrate this Halloween right inside the original SCREAM house with host sheriff Dewey Riley there to help you survive the return of Ghostface.

Airbnb is hosting three one-night stays for up to four people per party to try to survive a night with Ghostface on October 27, October 29, and October 31. The guests will receive a virtual check-in from Dewey. Afterward, take your time exploring the SCREAM house with all the original markings from the filming, and use the phone if you dare to reach Ghostface or make any requests. Then enjoy a VHS movie marathon of all four scream movies while munching on iconic 90s snacks like Jiffy Pops, Reddi-whip, and pizza. And if you survive the night, you’ll be able to take home a DVD bundle of the first four SCREAM films, Woodsboro High gear, posters from the new movie and more.

“Protecting the town of Woodsboro is my life’s duty, and I’ve certainly developed a knack for escaping Ghostface,” Riley said. “As your Host, I’ll be keeping a watchful eye on guests to ensure no one gets surprised by an unexpected plot twist. Trust me, horror movies always keep it interesting, for better or for worse…“

You’ll have to be quick to book one of the three stays on October 12 at 1 PM EDT. And if you manage to snag a night, be sure you know how you’ll be traveling to Northern California as transportation is not included in the package. And while you’re enjoying tricks, Airbnb is offering a treat to Ween Dream, making a donation to provide free Halloween costumes to children in need nationwide.

In the case you can’t book a stay, you can still enjoy an online experience with original SCREAM screenwriter, SCREAM (2022) executive producer, and scary movie expert Kevin Williamson to learn the behind-the-scenes secrets of the SCREAM franchise on October 28, 2021.

Book Now

More like thisCultureThe most haunted small towns in the US to visit this Halloween

The post You can stay in the original SCREAM house for the ultimate spooky season adventure appeared first on Matador Network.

Apple picking is the most overrated fall travel activity

Anyone who has worked a manual labor job characterized by tedious and repetitive tasks must be baffled by the hordes of people who voluntarily flock to apple orchards every fall to willingly, eagerly, pick fruit.

Apple picking makes perfect sense on paper: It’s a great way to spend a fall afternoon, orchards are relatively accessible in many parts of the country, you look good on Instagram doing it, and you can turn all those apples into a homemade apple pie. Just don’t think too hard about it, because if you do, you’ll realize a few unsettling truths.

First, apple picking isn’t even the twelfth best way to spend a fall afternoon, and it’s actually quite expensive for what you’re getting if you’re actually after the fruit. And while it might look good on the ‘gram, it also looks good on the ‘gram of countless other people (and no, your “apple a day” caption isn’t unique). Finally, there’s no way you’re actually baking an apple pie.

Apple picking is a terrible way to experience a destination

Whatever I may think about apple picking, no one can dictate how to spend your free time. Whether you’re traveling or lounging around at home, if you feel like filling a few apple baskets, go for it. If you’re traveling, however, and your goal is to have a memorable fall experience in a new destination, then there are much better options than paying to perform manual labor.

Apple picking is pretty much the same everywhere you go. If you’ve done it once, you’ve done it a thousand times. Other than the variety of apples, the experience won’t be markedly different between Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Oregon, and Washington (though even the varieties can be the same from coast to coast). If you’re looking for a fall experience that gets you outdoors and allows you to capture the essence of what makes a destination special, almost anything is better than picking apples.

You don’t have to think too far outside the box here. Even something simple like going for a short hike is a better way to explore a destination while taking advantage of the fall scenery. Visit a farmer’s market, pick up some local produce, and have a picnic in the park. Or, if you’re into history, a ghost tour can be a great way to spend a spooky fall evening, explore a new city, and hear some chilling local legends.

There’s no objective

Photo: beton studioShutterstock

Like it or not, we live in a goal-oriented society. We have deadlines to meet, tangible results to produce, and when we reflect on an experience, we want to feel like we accomplished something. That’s what makes apple picking such a head-scratcher. Not all fun activities need a goal, of course, but there’s usually a clearly-defined endpoint — an objective, however seemingly inconsequential.

When you go leaf peeping, the goal is to see fall in all its splendor. When you enter a hay or corn maze, the goal, ironically, is to get out. The primary goal of apple picking (at least for those who say it isn’t solely for the photoshoot) is entirely overshadowed by aimless manual labor. Sure, you want to fill your basket with apples. Sure, you want to pick the best ones. But if the goal is a basket of freshly picked apples, the aforementioned farmers market would be a better bet than hours of the sweat-inducing work of tiptoeing around fallen rotten fruit and lugging a heavy basket through a field.

Besides, even if the goal is a bunch of hand-picked apples, what are you going to do with that much fruit?

Let’s be honest, you’re not baking an apple pie

Take a random selection of people and ask them what they plan to do with their excess number of apples and you’re likely to hear one phrase over and over: “I’m gonna bake an apple pie.” But how many of these apple pickers are even capable of baking a pie, let alone have the time and motivation to actually do so?

The rest will bring their bounty home (a bushel, a common picking measurement, is about 50 pounds, for reference, or about 125 apples), plop bags of apples onto the kitchen counter, and enjoy a fleeting moment of jubilation and delusion as they consider all the delicious desserts they fully intend to bake. They’ll grab an apple and take a bite. Just a taste of what’s to come. After all, they deserve it.

Fast-forward a week. The apples are still on the counter, now soft with spots of brown. You really should bake that pie, but it’d take all afternoon and you’ve got a pumpkin in desperate need of carving. Throwing the apples away would be a shame. A waste. It’d be like you never picked them at all. But at this point, wouldn’t it be better to buy a pie from the local farmstand? A pie that costs half the price of your apple-picking odyssey, and tastes twice as good as anything you could bake yourself? Yes, it would.

You dump the apples in the trash, shed a tear, and think to yourself, “there’s always next year.”

More like thisOutdoor7 underrated spots for the best fall foliage in the US

The post Apple picking is the most overrated fall travel activity appeared first on Matador Network.

You’ve heard of NEOM. Now check out these other sustainable smart city concepts

The futuristic city of NEOM is on the horizon in the desert of northern Saudi Arabia. Architecturally planned as a long, thin line in order to offer residents easy access to nature and prevent unsustainable suburban sprawl, this futuristic city is envisioned as a model of what sustainable urban design could look like in the future. Researching NEOM has us thinking about other concepts working to restructure how we foresee city life. Here’s an overview of four additional smart cities.

Telosa, US desert

Photo: Bjarke Ingels Group and Bucharest studio

Telosa is a sustainable smart city concept envisioned by billionaire former Walmart executive Marc Lore. The concept is to design a 150,000-acre metropolis in the US desert comprised entirely of sustainable architecture and a 15-minute design — meaning that all amenities including food, schools, shopping, medical services, and more would be located within a 15-minute drive of a person’s home. Potential locations for Telosa include Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Idaho, Texas, and the Appalachian region.

“Telosa” is taken from the Greek word “telos,” which means “higher purpose.” According to a promotional video featuring Lore, that higher purpose includes the “most open, most fair and most inclusive city in the world.” Think the diversity of San Francisco or New York City, the efficiency of Singapore, and a tech-first approach to everything a la Star Trek (if the show were to be invented now).

Aquaponic farms will produce food. Gas-powered cars would be banned in the city. This is great, but given the momentum towards electric vehicles and increasing investment from automakers and startups, gas-powered cars will be obsolete by the time Telosa comes to fruition anyhow. The first phase of Telosa is planned to house 25,000 people across 1,500 acres as soon as 2030, with future growth expanding the city to accommodate 5,000,000 residents.

Lore has envisioned the city’s prominent skyscraper — seen in the photo above — and dubbed it Equitism Tower. This is an ode to the city’s plan for equality, which includes giving residents a stake in the land and economy so that they may benefit as the city grows. Governance would include a similar model, and the entire city is to be built with sustainability in mind.

Of course, building a new city from scratch is hardly sustainable. Even less so when that city is located in a water-parched desert, as Lore has proposed. To address the lack of water, Telosa plans to include elevated water platforms that can store enough water for the city on an ongoing basis. This is supposed to minimize water shortages in the instance of extreme drought. Where that water will come from isn’t immediately clear. Likely it would need to be pumped in, and in the instance of the city being remotely close to an ocean, potentially filtered through desalination plants.

Belmont — Arizona

Photo: Obeezyjay/Shutterstock

Not to be outdone in anything tech-related, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates is building a smart city in the Arizona desert near Buckeye, to be called Belmont. The entire city will be connected to high-speed internet (a plus for remote workers) and autonomous vehicles are expected to be the primary form of transport within the smart city’s boundaries. Gates and the developer’s behind the city, Belmont Brothers, expect Belmont to house some 180,000 people.

Due to its location near the Phoenix metro area, Belmont would be far easier than other smart cities such as NEOM and Telosa to get to, and likely to build. It is to be entirely solar-powered and according to its website, “water conservative” — something that will undoubtedly be a major challenge in one of the most water-scarce, and therefore unsustainable for its rapidly expanding human habitation, metropolitan areas in the country.

Peña Station NEXT — Denver, Colorado

Peña Station NEXT is a new smart city development underway near Denver International Airport in Colorado. Designed by the Panasonic Smart Mobility Office, its concept is a much smaller and condensed vision of Telosa — minus the whole “from scratch in the desert” thing.

The community is designed to use technology to optimize everything from commuting to power use. Within a three-minute walk of home, residents will find a park, shopping, dining, schools, entertainment, and more.

The development will be energized by a solar-powered microgrid and LEED-certified green buildings. Ample park space is designed into the layout. Denver’s light rail system already picks up and drops off right at the community’s edge, meaning public transit is both accessible and easy via the A-Line train, which connects the airport to Union Station in the heart of downtown Denver. The cool thing about Peña Station NEXT is that it is one of the first smart cities to be constructed in the US and you can see it come to life on a visit to Denver. The train takes you right by it as you leave the airport.

Forest City — Malaysia

Photo: Forest City CGPV

Built just north of Singapore, already known for its smart city ethos, Malaysia’s Forest City is a controversial concept built in the Iskandar Malaysia Special Economic Zone in Johor, Malaysia. The crazy thing about it is that there was no city here before — or even land on which to build one. Forest City is being built on artificial islands which are located off the country’s coast. This is one primary factor making Foreset City controversial, as coastal wetland environments were severely harmed during the construction of the man-made islands.

The city is designed to hold 700,000 residents in 5.5 square miles. Plant-covered skyscrapers are to be used to minimize heat and clean the air. Technology will optimize transport and the city will run on green power. But what’s most notable about Malaysia’s Forest City is that it is to be completely free of cars. If you plan to visit, be ready to pedal.

Forest City was originally announced in 2006 as part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. This makes it no surprise that a similar concept (even using the same moniker) is underway in China’s Guangxi Province. China’s is to be much smaller, housing only 30,000 people, but it will likely be the first of many smart cities of the nation.

More like thisSustainabilityNEOM is on track to be the world’s first “sustainable” city. Here’s what we know

The post You’ve heard of NEOM. Now check out these other sustainable smart city concepts appeared first on Matador Network.

How to travel solo on the spectrum

It’s no secret that the world isn’t built for people with autism (ASD), and travel is no different. Resources abound for families with autistic children, while a quick internet search for “solo travel for autistic adults” yields few results. The reasons for this discrepancy are unclear — it could be because researchers don’t measure for ASD travel in market surveys, or it could be due to implicit ableist biases amongst travel industry stakeholders.

Regardless of the reason, upon seeing the dearth of resources for solo ASD travel, it’s easy to reach a dispiriting conclusion, that solo travel is only for neurotypicals.

Are solo travel and autism meant to be?The meltdown-proof itinerary for ASD travelHow to find Aspie-friendly accommodationThe ultimate ASD travel packing listHow to stay safe on the roadAre solo travel and autism meant to be?

After discovering I was on the spectrum in my early 20s, I put off solo travel for years because I believed it wasn’t for me.

It took an English teaching position and a subsequent one-way flight to the Republic of Georgia for me to change my mind; since 2014, I’ve traveled solo in 15 countries and counting.

And since traveling alone, I’ve learned that while being autistic means you have to travel differently from your neurotypical peers, travel is actually a great match for Aspies. It can be a rewarding lifestyle that can open doors to the experiences, opportunities, and sense of belonging that often feel out of reach in your home country if you struggle with fitting in.

The meltdown-proof itinerary for ASD travel

Travel feels contradictory for Aspies who love to wander, as, by definition, travel means sacrificing familiarity and the routines that come with it.

A love of routine, however, is a hallmark autistic trait, one that creates a failsafe against nervous system overwhelm and consequent extreme emotional distress, a phenomenon known as meltdowns.

The increased risk for meltdowns on the road is why I’ve placed itinerary planning first on this guide. And though a solid outline of what you plan to do and when you plan to do it won’t protect you from travel-related curveballs like delayed flights and disappointing hotel rooms, it will provide the secure base needed to respond to stress in healthy ways.

If traveling overseas from the Americas, aim to arrive in the morning.

Time zone differences wreak havoc on your ability to emotionally regulate; set your nervous system up for success by booking trans-oceanic flights with evening departures and morning arrivals.

Pace yourself.

A rushed trip is a recipe for meltdowns, especially if you schedule too many activities in the first few days of your visit. One to two major sights per day is a good itinerary metric for Aspies, followed by three or more hours of downtime. Don’t fret if a slower schedule means you can’t see everything.

Avoid guided tour packages.

While all-inclusive trips spare you from booking and navigation legwork, vacation packages are not ideal for neurodivergent travelers, as they tend to saddle you with an inflexible, overloaded schedule, complete with regimented mealtimes, fast-paced sightseeing, and short trip duration.

Reserve one day for rest after flights and other forms of long-haul transportation.

Navigating transit in a foreign country takes a lot of physical and emotional energy; recharge your batteries with plenty of rest.

Book accommodation and train tickets ahead of time (if possible).

Besides eliminating the stress that comes from last minute searches, pre-booking lets you find the best seats, schedules, and lodging options.

Center your itinerary around your special interests.

Nothing provides an instant mood boost like getting to engage with a special interest; don’t be afraid to deviate from guidebook recommendations if your destination plays host to a special interest.

How to find Aspie-friendly accommodation

Not all accommodation is created equal when you’re on the spectrum, especially if you have sensory processing sensitivities around light and noise as I do.

And since the quality of rest, privacy, and comfort your accommodation provides is integral for your ability to emotionally regulate, here’s my tops tips for finding autism-friendly housing.

Choose your neighborhood wisely.

Trendy isn’t so trendy if it keeps you up at night; know that central neighborhoods in urban areas come with increased street noise and light pollution.

Mind the keywords.

Hospitality copywriters use keywords to attract their ideal customer; be mindful of terms used by party hostels, such as “energetic”, “wild”, “bustling”, and “hot spot”. Alternatively, “family-friendly”, “residential”, and “cozy” are green lights for peaceful, laidback housing.

Opt for private rooms at hostels and entire homes/apartments.

While it’s tempting to save a few coins with group dorms and rooms, shared accommodation is a nightmare if you’re introverted, a light sleeper, and have lengthy bathroom rituals. You never know what you’re going to get with shared spaces, and more often than not, what you get is disruption.

Look for accommodation with a kitchen and stove.

Restaurants are intimidating for solo autistic travelers with social anxiety, especially during dinner service; kitchens give you the option to cook your own meals and enjoy them in private. They also help you avoid overspending on take-out.

The ultimate ASD travel packing list

Fulfilling, meltdown-free travel on the spectrum begins long before you board the plane, with your packing list. Below are my must-have items.

We hope you love the some of products 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.

Noise-canceling headphones

Photo: BOSE

An essential for drowning out irritating airplane cabin noise. BOSE have some great headphone options and are definitely worth the investment. It is however advisable to avoid using noise-canceling headphones in unfamiliar areas where alertness is required, such as on the street and at outdoor markets.

Price: $194.99

Buy Now

Stim toys

Travel exposes you to new environments, however, new environments are sometimes overstimulating. Stim toys act as a pressure-release valve for travel’s overstimulating moments.

Weighted blanket

Photo: YnM

Besides keeping you warm, a weighted blanket provides grounding stimuli when you feel anxious and overwhelmed. There are lots of options on the market for weighted blankets, but this one from YnM has great customer reviews on Amazon.

Price: $59.90

Buy Now

Familiar snacks

If you have anxiety around trying unfamiliar foods, bring along some go-to snacks to help ease the transition to a new diet.

Spectrum safety on the road

On the surface, solo travel is about exploration. Below the surface, however, solo travel is about exploring vulnerability. And while vulnerability can lead to enhanced self-acceptance and openness to new experiences, it also tends to attract those who wish to exploit it.
All neurotypes are at risk for encountering unsavory characters on the road, and autistic travelers are at particularly high risk for crossing paths with predators due to our trusting disposition and conspicuous body language.

Said high risk is also amplified by the fact that socialization is challenging for Aspies, so challenging that our desire for connection can leave us susceptible to accepting harmful relationships.

When socializing abroad, be wary of strangers who approach you with levels of interest that are disproportionate with the amount of time you’ve known them, especially if said interest levels are coupled with flattery, gifts, and streetside settings. Know that while travel is a great way to meet new people, healthy interpersonal relationships abroad are generally forged when you engage in common activities over a sustained duration of time.

More like thisNewsThis website’s new feature is a game changer for travelers with a disability

The post How to travel solo on the spectrum appeared first on Matador Network.

A new study found the 10 best coffee cities in the United States

Attention all coffee lovers: National Coffee Day is approaching. It’s a special day for a special beverage, though many of us rely on coffee the other 364 days of the year, too. In the best coffee cities in America, getting the perfect cup of coffee is about as easy as walking out the front door.

Wallethub made a list of the best cities in the United States to grab a coffee. For the ranking, Wallethub compared the 100 largest cities across 12 metrics, including the average price of a pack of coffee and average price of a cappuccino, the share of adult coffee drinkers, the coffee shops per capita, and Google searches for the term “coffee.” Each metric was graded on a 100 point scale.

Source: WalletHub

Top 10 best coffee cities in America in 2021

Portland, ORSan Francisco, CASeattle, WAOrlando, FLPittsburgh, PAHonolulu, HITampa, FLMiami, FLSan Diego, CABoston, MA

Some of the results are obvious (hello, Seattle). If you look at the some of the breakout categories, however, you might find some interesting tidbits. Kansas City, Missouri, for example, has the lowest average price for a pack of coffee, while Honolulu is tied with Columbus, Ohio, for the highest average price. Hialeah, Florida, has the cheapest cappuccino cost, while Honolulu once again comes out as the most expensive.

The top cities with the most coffee shops, coffee houses, and cafes are Orlando, Pittsburgh, Honolulu, Cincinnati, and Tampa. San Francisco, Seattle, Honolulu, Portland, and Los Angeles are the top five cities with the most affordable coffee in America.

In the end, whether you’re a fan of a light arabica coffee or a strong robusta (or if you’re in the know and prefer kapeng barako from the Philippines), you can’t go wrong in any of these cities.

For more coffee statistics and where your city lands on the list check, out Wallethub’s full ranking. And if you miss them, fear not. International Coffee Day is just around the corner on October 1.

More like thisThe most expensive, and cheapest, countries for a cup of coffee

The post A new study found the 10 best coffee cities in the United States appeared first on Matador Network.

From bush to beach: The perfect week in Kenya

Kenya is a multifaceted country filled with the kind of outdoor adventures that dreams are made of. In this stunning place, you can feel the rush of adrenaline while coming face to face with predators, sleep under the stars in the wild, acquaint yourself with proud local cultures, and experience sunny, history-rich islands along the coast. From the bush to the beach, here are three destinations in Kenya that you’ll never forget.

Laikipia, Kenya

Wendy Hu

Laikipia is making its way up the ranks as one of Kenya’s prime ecotourist hotspots. This truly wild and backcountry corner of Kenya stretches from the foothills of Mount Kenya to the edge of the Great Rift Valley. Laikipia is made up of 12 conservancies, or private wildlife reserves, and a variety of ranches, some of which practice integrated land management, serving as home to both cattle and wild animals.

These areas are not just home to the famed “Big Five” — lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo — but also to endangered species like the Grévy’s Zebra, African Wild Dog, and the Sitatunga Antelope. Here you will find the second largest population of elephants in Kenya and over half of Kenya’s black rhino population. Oi Pejeta Conservancy is home to the last living Northern White Rhino.

In contrast to Kenya’s popular national parks, Laikipia sees far fewer crowds, which means oftentimes there won’t be another vehicle in sight while you’re on your safari. Beyond mesmerizing landscapes and impressive wildlife numbers, Lakipia is home to tribal communities of the Samburu, Ilaikipiak, and Mukogodo Maasai tribes, who also benefit from Laikipia’s safari tourism through community conservancy.

Where to Stay in Laikipia, Kenya: An eco-friendly choice

Photo: El Karama Lodge/Facebook

I was lucky enough to stay in El Karama Lodge, an off-the-grid destination far from the typical Kenyan safari crowds. The private, family-owned lodge serves the traveler seeking eco-friendly, tailor-made experiences. With 14,000 acres of private land, solitude isn’t hard to come by here. The property consists of eight cottages total, among them a family cottage (also known as the Hobbit House), four ensuite “bandas” with private river view verandas, and two secluded, luxurious cottages right on the riverbank.

All the food on the property is sourced from the organic garden or local communities, offering a farm-to-fork experience. You can tour the homestead and learn about its daily operations and see exactly where your food is coming from.

If you are traveling as a family, there’s plenty to keep the little explorers entertained. Bush school offers children developed activities such as wildlife tracking and plaster casts, clay sculpting, beadwork, safari passport games, and so much more. Older children can participate in cooking lessons, horse riding, lion predator profiling, and wildlife monitoring using camera traps. After a long day of safari adventures, adults can wind down with a rejuvenating spa experience.

Best experiences in Laikipia, Kenya

Wendy Hu

Because the El Karama is a private property, both daytime and nighttime game drives are permissible. I found there’s nothing quite like the thrill of being in the bush in the stillness of night, spotting nocturnal animals like aardvark and white-tailed mongoose; even the hippos, which stay mostly hidden during the day, come out at night.

One of Kenya’s best safari experiences is getting up-close and personal on a bush walk. These guided nature walks on the game reserve or conservancy let you experience the area in a more natural way. After your walking adventure, you can arrange an intimate picnic outdoors, where a tasty spread is prepared before you to enjoy amidst the beauty of nature.

At El Karama, you can also book a fly-camping experience, where you can sleep under a blanket of stars and be treated to a delicious dinner and breakfast cooked on an open fire out in the bush.

Maasai Mara, Kenya

Photo: GUDKOV ANDREY/Shutterstock

Home to the Big Five, Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve is one of the most popular safari destinations in the world and a must on any Kenyan itinerary. The Maasai Mara’s name originated with the Maasai people who referred to the area as “Mara,” which translates to “spotted.” With its expansive plains spotted with acacia trees, bushes, and animals, the name is fitting.

The Maasai Mara is a wildlife sanctuary that stretches over 583 square miles. With no fences between the neighboring wilderness of the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, wildlife is able to roam free and uninhibited across borders. What’s also unique about the Maasai Mara is that it is not managed by Kenya’s wildlife services; instead, it is managed by local communities.

The Maasai Mara is an excellent year-round destination. However, it is in the months of late July to October that the drama-filled Great Migration takes place — the world’s largest migration of wildlife. Over two million animals, including wildebeest, zebra, eland, and Thomson gazelle, make the migration from Serengeti National Park to the Maasai Mara National Reserve. If you want to get a front-row seat to this majestic event, plan your trip to Kenya during that time.

Where to stay in Maasai Mara, Kenya: An upscale option

Wendy Hu

Suspended amidst Kenya’s iconic Acacia trees lies Mara Nyika, a new luxury tented camp from the Great Plains Conservation group. Mara Nyika, meaning “Large Plains or Great Plains” is located in the 50,000-acre, private, game-rich Naboisho Conservancy that borders the Maasai Mara. The camp consists of five luxury tents, two of which are two-bedroom, family-style tents. If you can afford it, Mara Nyika is ideal for travelers wanting exclusivity, a multigenerational family, or a honeymooning couple seeking adventure.

Inside the tents, artistic antiques and rustic wooden furniture add an air of opulence while simultaneously paying homage to the history and culture that runs deep in Kenya. For instance, the mirrors replicating traditional dhows, or the boats that ply the Indian Ocean, beaded coasters reminiscent of the beaded jewelry adorning the Maasai people, and the elaborate woodwork outfitting the space. Beyond the tents lie sprawling plains where the only neighbors you’re likely to see are grazing zebras and giraffes. You may even have a few visitors on your private patio, like monkeys and a variety of birds.

Mara Nyika is a luxury camp; however, it stays true to its ethos of sustainability and conservation. Each guest’s stay supports over 500 Maasai families and helps to ensure the conservation of the Maasai Mara ecosystem.

Best experiences in the Maasai Mara

Wendy Hu

Most tented camps in the Maasai Mara will have early morning and night game drives on the agenda. The reserve is known for having the highest concentration of big cats such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs, and as the home of the Big Five, you’re almost guaranteed to spot buffalo, elephant, lion, and leopard on any given game drive. The elusive black rhinos are a bit harder to spot, but not impossible. You’ll also see your fair share of various species of antelope, zebra, hyena, giraffe, and more than 500 species of birds.

The Maasai Mara isn’t all “Big Five” and safaris. It is also culture and community that beckons to be explored. The Maasai, who migrated to this area from the Nile Basin centuries ago, are famed for being fierce warriors. The Maasai live a semi-nomadic lifestyle, continue to wear their brightly colored traditional shuka clothing and intricately beaded jewelry, and offer visitors unbridled hospitality. If they regale you with a dance, you’ll be stunned with their jumping skills. On a visit to a traditional village, you can experience the local life and rituals of the Maasai.

The perfect punctuation to an evening game drive is savoring a magical sunset in the Maasai Mara while enjoying light bites and sundowners, arranged by Mara Plains Camp. As the light fades to darkness, the bonfire will keep you warm under the crisp evening air, while the sounds of nature create an unforgettable experience.

Lamu

Photo: javarman/Shutterstock

Lamu is the epitome of the Swahili word pole pole. Slow down. A stark contrast to the frenetic energy of Nairobi and the adventures of the bush, Lamu is a place that forces you to slow down, breathe in, and enjoy the sweet moments between the moments. The Lamu archipelago is made up of over 65 islands in the Indian Ocean; however, the largest are Manda, Kiwayu, and the namesake Lamu Islands. Lamu Island was once the epicenter of trade, attracting Persians, Arabs, Indians, and Europeans. The eclectic mix of multicultural diversity that arose from that shows up everywhere and in everything from architecture and cuisine to culture and language.

You’ll see these remnants of the past as you meander through the labyrinth of narrow, winding streets where the shade of towering, whitewashed, coral stone buildings offers a cool reprieve from the heat. You won’t find any cars on these dusty roads; they are far too narrow. However, you will find yourself making way for the cargo-laden donkeys that transport goods around the island. Whereas once upon a time no motorized vehicles were allowed on Lamu Island, you’ll now find a few motorbikes zigzagging their way through the crowds of people and donkeys. Even so, this East African isle is a historic place that appears as though it has been frozen in time. Lamu Old Town is one of the most well-preserved towns in Kenya and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001.

Where to stay in Lamu: Barefoot luxury

Wendy Hu

Just beyond the shores of Manda Island, tucked away amidst indigenous trees and fragrant flora, lies The Majlis, a barefoot luxury resort with idyllic views over the bay and Lamu Island. The Majlis is a beautiful fusion of Italian and Swahili designs. Gelato stands and bright pink-colored flowers snaking their way up the facades of the building will make you feel as though you’re on the coast of southern Italy; while ornate Swahili design work will remind you this is a Kenyan gem.

It’s a splurge, as the most basic rooms, which aren’t basic at all, start at over US$ 300 a night. Each of the 39 rooms has its own flair and personality, and the Majlis could easily double as an art exhibit. Intriguing sculptures, furniture made of breathtaking beadwork, and photographs that weave a delicate story of Kenya’s past and present will impress you as you wander through the three beachfront villas. With two ocean-front bars to savor sips at sundown and two swimming pools for refreshing dips from the Kenyan sun, relaxation won’t be hard to come by.

Lamu Experiences

Photo: Przemyslaw Skibinski/Shutterstock

One of the best things to do in Lamu is to explore the Old Swahili settlements. Peruse through the streets of Old Town for an experience of the senses: Smell the savory scents of delicious eats, while you listen to the sounds of hooves trotting along the dirt roads and deep belly laughs escaping from pals chatting in front of storefronts. As you walk the streets of Lamu, you’ll also admire the artistry, craftsmanship, and intricacy of the copious amounts of hand-carved mahogany doors. Pop into some of the local shops and watch the artisans at work, skillfully whittling away at slabs of wood.

While on the island, learn the history of Lamu and the Swahili culture at the Lamu Museum or visit the Lamu Fort — a fortress, turned prison, turned museum. Over 3,000 donkeys on the island are used as the main mode of transportation, which means they often need tending to and mending. Check out the Donkey Sanctuary and learn about its work. If that doesn’t placate the historian in you, make your way to Takwa, a settlement situated on the south side of Manda Island that was abandoned around the 18th century.

Head just two miles South of Lamu, via a five-minute boat ride or 45-minute walk, to Shela — a bohemian beach retreat that has become wildly popular with expats and A-list celebrities like Sting, Naomi Campbell, and Mick Jagger, because of its exclusivity. Shela Beach is a little more upscale and a lot quieter than Lamu. Also, you’ll find beachfront restaurants, like Peponi’s to enjoy sunsets and sundowners on Shela, unlike Lamu.

If you can tear yourself away from the blissful beaches, you’ll find the waters off Lamu offer up their own adventures. Set sail on a traditional dhow for an unforgettable sunset ride, or take a tour through the channels and mangroves of the Lamu Archipelago. You can enjoy a myriad of water sports; such as snorkeling and water skiing, and deep-sea fishing.

More like thisTravelEverything you need to know to visit Kenya for the first time

The post From bush to beach: The perfect week in Kenya appeared first on Matador Network.

Geologist Daniel Robinson has been missing for three months

After the national outrage about Gabby Petito’s disappearance, prompting an audience for the search and homicide investigation, many people took to social media to voice how the police and news outlets neglect to have the same level of outrage for Black, Indigenous, and other people of color. In 2020, 182,548 Black people were reported missing in the US, according to Statista. A tweet went viral speaking of Daniel Robinson’s disappearance.

REPOST: While we're watching Gabby Petito’s case unfold, please take five seconds to read about Daniel Robinson, a geologist who went missing in the desert outside Buckeye three months ago. His father is still looking for him. #BrianLaundrie #gabbypetitio pic.twitter.com/FsrEvFURLa

— Arieah (@landin13342352) September 21, 2021

Who was Daniel?

24-year-old Daniel Robinson is a geologist originally from Columbia, South Carolina, who was born without a right hand. He graduated from the College of Charleston two years ago getting his degree in archaeology and moved to Tempe, Arizona when he received a job offer with Matrix New World Engineering where he has worked for the last two years. Daniel went missing on June 23, 2021 in Buckeye, Arizona.

What we know so far

Leading up to the disappearance his family said he was acting odd. According to the Buckeye Police report obtained by ABC 15, on June 12, a patron from his side hustle delivering food invited him to hang out with her friend. Later texts showed Robinson repeatedly showed up at the woman’s home unannounced, after she asked him not to, and that he’d told his family “that he was in love with her.”

According to The Independent, the last person to see him was co-worker Ken Elliot, who said that he saw Robinson go from normal to distracted during their conversation, but he didn’t seem to be on any substances.

“Then he just turned around and walked back over to his Jeep, and I just assumed he was going to get something out of his vehicle. And he opened the door, got in, sat down, put on his seatbelt, then he looked at me and just waved at me and backed up and took off,” Elliot said.

Robinson did not call in sick and when Elliott went to investigate, the tracks from his blue 2017 Jeep Renegade went towards the desert, not to his home. He also failed to check in with his family.

Daniel Robinson’s father, David Robinson believes the police did not act quickly enough to find his son. Even though he was reported missing on Jun 23, 2021, a helicopter search was not conducted until June 25, and the police did not search Robinson’s home until July 7. Civil Air Patrol, which is comprised of volunteers who do air searches, was not contacted by police until July 7.

Since then his father and dozens of volunteers go out every Saturday to search for the geologist. One month following his disappearance, on July 19, a rancher found his Jeep rolled over and on its side in a ravine not far from where he was last spotted. The airbags were deployed and officials said evidence shows Robinson was wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash, so the police said the evidence showed a lack of foul play. Found in the Jeep were his clothes from the day he went missing, wallet, keys, and phone.

Before finding his Jeep, police said they conducted four ground searches on foot and used UTVs, cadaver dogs, drones, helicopters, and civil air patrol. They conducted two more searches in the area afterward but came up short.His father hired private investigator former police officer Jeff McGrath because something wasn’t quite right. McGrath disagrees with police findings. He said the car did not roll into the ravine. It was tipped on its side. He also said the car was driven for another 11 hours after the airbags deployed, and that the engine was cranked over at least 46 times following. McGrath believes the crash was staged, according to NBC 12.

“The department has followed up on all the leads that we know of; we have followed up on all the evidence we have,” said Buckeye Police assistant Chief Bob Sanders. “Next week we will be seeking some additional expert advice regarding the crash data.”

How you can help

David Robinson is asking for folks to sign his change.org petition which demands that the police department change Daniel’s case into a criminal investigation, which will allow the Buckeye Police Department to use the evidence obtained to seek warrants. This would mean the police department would have to buy into the private investigator’s findings that the crash was staged. At time of writing, the petition has reached over 56,000 signatures. There is also a GoFundMe which is funding David Robinson’s independent efforts to find his son. It has reached over three times its $40,000 goal. Lastly, if you have information regarding Daniel’s disappearance, call the Buckeye police department at 623-349-6400.

“In these three months my son is finally being heard; the story is finally being heard,” David Robinson said.

More like thisNewsRoad tripper Gabrielle Petito’s death is ruled a homicide while fiancé is nowhere to be found

The post Geologist Daniel Robinson has been missing for three months appeared first on Matador Network.

Ireland welcomes back travelers with flights from $359 and other deals

Ireland is welcoming us back to the Emerald Isle with a ton of discounted travel deals. Tourism Ireland is encouraging travelers to “press the green button” and book a trip of a lifetime.

Ireland opened its borders to travelers in July 2021, and to help boost the tourism industry, they now have a range of special offers on activities, accommodations, tours, and flights.

Tourism Ireland isn’t the only one prmoting great deals. Airline Aer Lingus currently has roundtrip tickets starting at $353.96 for travel between October 1, 2021, and February 17, 2022.

Some of the other highlighted offers include $300 off an 11-night tour across the country with Celtic Tours, $250 off a castle tour with Isle Inn Tours and $250 off the best pub crawl in Ireland (with a private driver.)

Those who are vaccinated and recently recovered from COVID are no longer required to quarantine upon arrival as long as you can present a negative COVID test taken within three days before travel.

Ireland is open and ready for travelers! You can visit the Tourism Ireland website and “press the green button” to get your next trip started.

More like thisArt + Architecture7 picture-perfect Irish villages we want to escape to

The post Ireland welcomes back travelers with flights from $359 and other deals appeared first on Matador Network.

Beautiful Airbnbs you can book on Cape Cod for a last-minute vacation

The minute you cross over the bridge, you feel relaxation mode take over. Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is a haven for beach lovers and foodies seeking a kick-back destination. Whether you are enjoying a solo vacation or a group getaway, we have 11 great Cape Cod Airbnbs to make your stay perfect — even at the last minute.

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.

Peaceful house with private beach in Nantucket Sound

Location: Barnstable

Photo: Airbnb

Chic Cape style in calming beachy colors will make your stay at this large group rental a quintessential beach vacation. A short walk to your private beach playground for a day of fun in the sun, the rental is situated near downtown Hyannis where you will find wonderful restaurants, the Kennedy Museum, and the Hy-Line ferry for a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $421 per night

Book Now

Dennis cottage located on Scargo Lake

Location: Dennis

Photo: Airbnb

Located on Scargo Lake, this clean, modern home offers an uncluttered ambiance perfect to chill and unwind. Enjoy your favorite adult beverage on the back deck with gorgeous lake views or lounge in an Adirondack chair for a midday nap. Mayflower Beach, one of the nicest beaches on Cape Cod is in Dennis. You will love spending the day sunning, walking in the soft sand, and napping on the beach.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $400 per night

Book Now

Bright Brewster beach house

Location: Brewster

Photo: Airbnb

Fun and funky, this beachy getaway is a comfortable house for a gang. Grab your swimsuits and your besties for a vacation stay in one of the coziest Cape Cod Airbnbs with a spacious living area and kitchen, and easy access to the surrounds. The large deck, open kitchen, and cozy furniture set the tone for a getaway stay to refresh your spirit. The fire pit is the perfect spot for evening gatherings with great conversation and S’mores.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $400 per night

Book Now

Garden view at Halcyon Farm bed and breakfast

Location: Brewster

Photo: Airbnb

Bright and beautiful, this garden view room is the second-floor master suite. With beautifully landscaped organic gardens and farm, your stay will be filled with halcyon summer memories. The “inn style” stay offers shared common spaces like the living room and porch.

Two guests, one private bedroom
Price: $245 per night

Book Now

Chloe’s Classic Cape home in Eastham

Location: Eastham

Photo: Airbnb

Classically charming shingled Cape home offers guests a cozy cottage retreat. Nestled in a quiet neighborhood and close to the bike trail, the beach, and Salt Pond. It is the perfect spot for a workcation, offering a lovely change of scenery from your home office.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $220 per night

Book Now

Discover Wellfleet from an immaculate new build

Location: Wellfleet

Photo: Airbnb

Towards the outer arm of Cape Cod, the land narrows and towns like Wellfleet offer visitors bayside and ocean beach options. This spectacular home is a casual, luxury escape with room for large groups. The screen porch and open deck are waiting for you to reconnect with family members while enjoying the peaceful, natural surroundings.

Nine guests, four bedrooms
Price: $729 per night

Book Now

Quiet, modern & central home with parking, decks & fireplace

Location: Provincetown (P-town)

Photo: Airbnb

This sweet little gem is everything you want in a P-town Airbnb. Stroll around town and enjoy the hip and unique vibe. Be sure to reserve a spot at the Crown & Anchor for their Divas by the Sea Drag Brunch or one of the other fabulous nightclub shows. Hop on the ferry from Boston for an easy city escape.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $257 per night

Book Now

Amazing family-friendly in-town rental in Chatham

Location: Chatham

Photo: Airbnb

When you have a large gang and need a place for everyone, this stunning Airbnb on a quiet little side street in Chatham is the perfect spot. Steps from charming downtown Chatham, everyone can enjoy their idea of a fabulous Cape Cod getaway. The large sun porch dining room allows the entire family to gather for a meal and share the days adventures. The luxurious Chatham Bars Inn is nearby and a wonderful spot for a romantic dinner on the water.

Twelve guests, five bedrooms
Price: $1,021 per night

Book Now

Walk to the beach from a family-friendly home

Location: Chatham

Photo: Airbnb

Harding’s Beach is a short walk from this pristine private home. Grab a towel, sunscreen, and a great book for a delightful day at the beach. For dinner where the locals go, head over to the Chatham Squire, a dive bar with good food and eclectic décor.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $450 per night

Book Now

Guest unit in quaint home with backyard

Location: Harwich

Photo: Airbnb

This charming and cozy cottage is a fun throwback to the days of Cape Cod tiny vacation house living. For a romantic getaway or a workcation, you will love the location in south-central Cape Cod. Bring your tennis racquet and work up a sweat in the on-property court.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $225 per night

Book Now

Cozy coastal cottage with large pool

Location: Yarmouth

Photo: Airbnb

Steps from the water, this classic coastal cottage is just what you need to enjoy a relaxing gateway with family or a group of friends. The house has multiple decks boasting water views, a full kitchen, and all the amenities of home. Location is key when selecting a beachy stay, and this is one of the best Cape Cod Airbnbs you can find by location – steps from the sand.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $225 per night

Book Now

More like thisBeaches + Islands5 states with the most scenic and laid-back nude beaches

The post Beautiful Airbnbs you can book on Cape Cod for a last-minute vacation appeared first on Matador Network.

How mountain biking helped me rediscover my love for the outdoors

For a handful of years in early grade school, my family had a timeshare outside of Breckenridge, Colorado. Not a plush slopeside condo but, rather, an old wooden cabin that had been converted into a row of rustic townhouses built into a hillside east of town a few miles up Boreas Pass Road. Looking back, I’m surprised my dad was able to get my mother to go there not just once, but several times. While it was less than two hours by car from our home in suburban Denver, our annual pilgrimage up Interstate 70 to Breckenridge was the highlight of summer. This year, I rediscovered that feeling of youthful exuberance a few hours further west, on a mountain bike trip to Powderhorn Mountain Resort.

As a boy, I’d spend afternoons collecting pine cones in the woods behind the cabin. We’d embark on family hikes on the surrounding trails, typically lasting about 30 minutes before my sister or I would lose interest or suffer a minor mishap that needed attention. My dad would take us out in a pedal boat on Maggie Pond, which to me seemed a daring voyage worthy of a hardened sailor but, in reality, is a smooth jaunt across a man-made water feature in the ski resort’s base village.

Through the smiles and scowls of youthful exploring, I learned to miss this place when we weren’t there. To this day, the sharp, terpene-heavy smell of pine needles in the summer reminds me of that cabin. These summers instilled in me a love for the mountains, a growing obsession that would factor into every major decision I’d make as a teenager and young adult.

Photo courtesy of Ryan Robinson

At age 37, I found Powderhorn to be the perfect place to reclaim this feeling. The resort is the sole ski area on Colorado’s Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flat-topped mountain. It’s just over 30 minutes from the western Colorado town of Palisade, where I now live, and under an hour from the bigger city of Grand Junction.

Powderhorn is a small resort, with three lifts and an old wooden day lodge surrounded by a small smattering of condos. Next to the lodge is a cluster of tiny homes that were installed last year to house skiers wanting a night of revelry rather than a drive back to town. Of the three restaurants, the newest option, the Umbrella Bar, is a glass-walled, yurt-topped contraption that offers 360-degree views from the alpine mesa down towards the sandstone walls of De Beque Canyon. It’s remote but great for families due to its lack of crowds and relative affordability compared to larger resorts. No Colorado ski area better represents the rugged spirit of skiing; and in the summer, I learned, there’s no better ode to the freedom of youthful mountain exploration.

I visited the resort to attempt the Plunge to Powderhorn, a newly-minted, 18-mile mountain bike ride that is an offshoot of the Palisade Plunge mega-trail that debuted this summer. The former takes off from the same Mesa Top Trailhead as the latter but bears right after five miles to head towards the resort. It traverses the Palisade Plunge trail through forests of pine and aspen trees, and around several of the small lakes fed annually by snowmelt that never quite finds its way off the mesa’s flat crown. It moves onto the Deep Creek, Rim View, and West Bench trails across open meadows of bright wildflowers. Finally, it descends a series of winding switchbacks to the top of the ski area’s main lift and concludes with a ride through the resort’s downhill bike park.

Photo: Powderhorn Mountain Resort

The Plunge to Powderhorn is a route of moderate difficulty. This makes it more approachable than the experts-only Palisade Plunge. It also makes it a better option for riders like me who, despite no shortage of time in the high country, overlooked the pleasure of off-road biking until about the time of their 30th birthday. I never developed the instincts and guts of those who grew up mountain biking. As a result, I’m much more timid on steep rocky slopes than many in the bike-crazy part of the state where I live. The Plunge to Powderhorn and the resort’s bike park cater to that by offering routes that don’t require barreling over ten-foot rock drops — though that option is there if you want it.

During the three-hour ride, our crew of three took several breaks to gaze out over the mesa’s edge or huddle in a cove of pine to recount a particularly fun stretch of trail. It was here that the terpenes got me again. I realized I was hooked on mountain biking not so much because of the actual riding, but because it takes me back to those summer days on Boreas Pass Road. The ride started out under a sunny sky before being overtaken by rain. Still, we arrived at the resort’s base in an ecstatic mood as the sun reclaimed its typical seat atop the mesa and the Grand Valley it overlooks. Collecting pine cones doesn’t do it for me anymore, but on the Plunge to Powderhorn I discovered that cruising a trail on two wheels sure does.

When I’m on the trail, it’s just me, my bike, and the mountain. Three compadres in a bumpy, descending dance with me as the unsure lead. I may not always look good, but damn it if I’m not having the time of my life.

For a few hours, I feel like a kid again.

More like thisCyclingAspen Snowmass is officially one of best mountain bike spots in the world

The post How mountain biking helped me rediscover my love for the outdoors appeared first on Matador Network.