Matador Network's Blog, page 591
August 26, 2021
European travel requirements seemed dauntingly strict. Turns out I was overprepared.
In early August, as I was packing my carry-on for a month-long trip to Europe, I was sure I had everything in order for my first international flight since the start of the pandemic. I’d triple-checked the requirements for entering Portugal, where the emergence of the Delta variant had complicated an already fickle travel landscape. I slipped my CDC-issued vaccination card and the negative results of a rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours of my departure into the sleeve of my passport case, completed the passenger locator form issued by the Portuguese government, and dug up an unopened N95 face mask to wear on the plane.
Confident as I was that I’d met all the travel requirements, the nagging fear that I’d missed a step that would prohibit me from boarding my flight crept into mind as I pulled up to San Francisco International Airport. The one scenario I hadn’t considered was that I might have been overprepared.
Expectations versus reality: Flying into and traveling around EuropeWhen I arrived at my gate, I was asked to sign a statement declaring that I wasn’t experiencing any coronavirus symptoms before entering France, as I would be flying to Lisbon via Paris. Though the form stated that it was to be presented before boarding and again at border control at Charles de Gaulle, I wasn’t asked to flash it or my vaccination card when I arrived. After verbally confirming that I was vaccinated, I was waved through to catch my connection, where the gate agent asked for my vaccination card but not my negative rapid antigen test.
France, unlike Portugal, doesn’t currently require fully vaccinated American travelers to have proof of a negative coronavirus test. Because France was where I entered the European Union, I wasn’t asked to show my negative test results at any point in my outbound travels, nor was the QR code generated by my completed passenger locator form ever scanned.
I was required to produce a negative test to leave Lisbon, however. A few weeks after landing in Portugal, I packed my bags for Montenegro. I flew into Dubrovnik, Croatia, via Amsterdam, rented a car at the airport, and followed the coast south. My vaccination card was requested as proof of health at passport control in both Amsterdam and Dubrovnik, as advertised (either a vaccination card or a negative rapid antigen test is required to enter Croatia). Finding information on the requirements to cross the Montenegrin border by car was more difficult. In the end, my passport was the only documentation needed.
Suffice it to say, the reality of my European travels has not matched my expectations. To complicate matters more, the requirements that were enforced when I was in transit were not the same as those that my part-time travel companions experienced.
A few weeks after I arrived in Lisbon, my friend Peter came to visit. He flew direct from Raleigh, North Carolina, on the Portuguese airline TAP and was required to provide proof of a negative coronavirus test upon arrival, although a second test was not required for him to continue on to Spain the following. The friends he met in Barcelona that had come directly from the United States didn’t need a negative test, either.
My friend Karin, who I met at Amsterdam Schiphol mid-month, got tested before her departure from San Francisco. Unlike me, Karin was asked to show both a negative test and her vaccination card at the check-in and baggage counter in San Francisco, where I hadn’t stopped because I checked in online and only brought carry-on luggage. She didn’t have to clear passport control in Amsterdam to make our connecting flight to Dubrovnik as I had, and once in Croatia she was similarly asked to flash her vaccination card. Her health declaration form issued by the Dutch government was never collected.
Expectations versus reality: Health and safety measures in Europe
Photo: Elizaveta Galitckaia/Shutterstock
Transit procedures aren’t the only question mark of pandemic-era travel. What to expect on the ground is another consideration, from what the local rules are to how they’re enforced.
In Lisbon, everything I’d read suggested that some people would wear masks outdoors while others wouldn’t, but that masks would be required indoors. This proved to be true. About half of the people I passed on crowded city streets wore masks. From what I could gather, the majority of those who didn’t were tourists.
Masks were also standard in every store I visited. Though I only ate inside at a handful of restaurants, each had its own entry requirements. Most asked for proof of vaccination, though on one occasion the confirmation email from my testing site in California was accepted as verification, while a covered terrace only asked for verbal testimony and a temperature check to dine. Elsewhere, such as the lone bar I patronized, didn’t ask for proof of vaccination.
Testing and proof of vaccination requirements at accommodations were perhaps the biggest surprise I encountered in Portugal. I had read that Airbnb hosts were supposed to confirm that guests had been tested, or direct them to get a fresh test altogether, but mine coordinated self-check-in and asked for no such evidence. In another example, the hotel that Peter and I booked for a weekend trip to Ericeira, a surf town roughly 45 minutes north of Lisbon, had warned us that we would need to show a negative test on arrival. When we got there, vaccination cards were requested instead.
In Montenegro, which the CDC recently classified as a very high-risk destination, masks are uncommon. Aside from our hotel staff and grocery store employees and shoppers, Karin and I were among the only mask-wearers we saw anywhere, indoors or otherwise, from our hotel’s breakfast buffet to the beach. Hand sanitizing stations, on the other hand, are ubiquitous.
What to expect when you’ve arrived at your destination will depend entirely on where you’re traveling. It’s a good idea to err on the side of caution when you’re planning and packing, particularly given how quickly travel rules and restrictions can change.
If you have one, bring your vaccination card, but also take a picture on your phone as a backup or digital alternative. Pack multiple masks. Consider purchasing a few at-home coronavirus tests before your departure, or check if they’re available over the counter in your destination. In Portugal, for example, pharmacies sell at-home test kits for roughly two euros, a fraction of what Peter paid for the tests he brought from California, just in case. Though these tests are not suitable for air travel, they may suffice should an accommodation or indoor venue require you to show proof that you’ve recently tested negative. The tests will also provide peace of mind if you exhibit any symptoms and are concerned about spreading the virus.
Expectations versus reality: Getting a coronavirus test in EuropeSo far, the ease of scheduling last-minute coronavirus tests has been a pleasant surprise throughout my European travels. I’d heard horror stories about travelers in Portugal scrambling to make an appointment. Though the first pharmacy in downtown Lisbon that I called prior to my flight to Dubrovnik did not have any availability for four days, the pharmacy in the Martim Moniz neighborhood that I phoned next accepted walk-ins. A rapid antigen test cost 25 euros, there was no one in line when I arrived, and I had my negative results within 10 minutes.
In Montenegro, my Airbnb host confirmed that testing centers are easily accessible in the resort town of Tivat, my final destination, as well as in Dubrovnik farther up the Adriatic coast. Compared to the trouble I faced securing an appointment to get tested in the Bay Area earlier that month, which can cost 10 times as much for anyone without a health insurance plan that covers elective coronavirus tests, my experience getting tested in Europe has been a breeze — and an affordable one at that. 
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These New York City hotels offer great rates and stunning skyline views
New York’s Manhattan skyline is the most iconic in the world. But with over 700 hotels to choose from, it can be difficult to know the best place to stay to enjoy the showstopping views of the city, especially from the comfort of your own bedroom. Here is a selection of the most stunning NYC hotels with skyline views.
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.
Mandarin Oriental
Photo: Expedia
Upon entering the Mandarin Oriental’s 35th floor Sky Lobby, guests are greeted by artist Dale Chihuly’s magnificent crystal sculpture that sets the tone for one of New York’s most sophisticated and thoughtfully designed hotels. The Mandarin Oriental’s distinctive design elements and artworks pay homage to its Asian inspiration and are guided by the principles of legendary Master Feng Shui, who has created a harmonious space well removed from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis below. The Asiate restaurant serves up a taste of the East alongside unrivaled panoramas of Central Park, and each of the hotel’s lavishly decorated suites offer views either of Central Park or the Hudson River. For a unique East Side meets West Side perspective, consider the outrageous Suite 5000. This 3,300 square feet space on the 50th floor offers wrap-around views of the city, three bedrooms, a living area, a media room, and a walk-in wardrobe. Yours for the night for a cool $36,000.
80 Columbus Circle, Manhattan
Price: From $716
Photo: Expedia
The Renaissance pitches itself as a lifestyle hotel for a younger demographic who want a quirkier experience than what’s offered at most hotel chains. This is epitomized in the funky wall decoration that climbs from the lobby to the first floor of the Renaissance New York Chelsea — a massive art installation made up of hundreds of mounted antiques — a nod to the hotel’s former life as the home of the Antiques Garage flea market. This has become Chelsea’s most popular NYC hotel with skyline views. At the top of the hotel, spread over the 38th and 39th floors, is Somewhere Nowhere, a garden lounge and open-air rooftop pool run by the El Grupo SN nightlife company, which plays host to some of the hippest (and highest) parties in New York. For partygoers looking out from the rooftop pool it can feel like winning at a game of sightseeing bingo. The East River, Brooklyn Bridge, the top of Madison Square and, looming large in the foreground, the gargantuan Empire State building provide the perfect backdrop for a night out in the city that never sleeps.
112 W. 25th Street, Manhattan
Price: From $161
Photo: Expedia
For the forward-thinking, environmentally conscious traveler with a weakness for lavish living, the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is undoubtedly the benchmark for sustainable luxury in New York City. Inspired by nature and with an explicit pledge to lead the conversation on sustainability, the hotel’s green credentials are conspicuous in the little details, from the recycled rainwater water system to its’ no-plastics policy and the furniture crafted with reclaimed wood from old New York water towers. These elements lend an earthy, natural character to the hotel and its guestrooms, which one could easily mistake for an exquisite wilderness cabin were it not for the exceptional views through the window of the Brooklyn Bridge or the Statue of Liberty. The views of the Lower Manhattan skyline across the East River from the rooftop pool deck and plunge pool, use of which is exclusive for hotel guests, are unparalleled.
60 Furman Street, Brooklyn
Price: From $366 per night
Photo: Expedia
When the pandemic prompted leading names in the hospitality industry to pivot towards a guest experience that prioritizes health and well-being, the Equinox at Hudson Yards saw no need. They were already well ahead of the game. This sleek, modern entry into the New York luxury hotel scene guarantees that guests will leave a little bit better off than when they arrived, with rooms specifically designed to restore and revive courtesy of a plethora of details including spring-free beds infused with temperature-regulating natural fibers, state-of-the-art soundproofing technologies, and AC units fitted with optimum medical-grade filters. The best views are from the rooftop pool and, of course, the signature fitness center — probably the largest hotel gym in the world — where your bench press or treadmill overlooks the River Hudson and Manhattan’s West Side skyline. For even more spectacular vistas, take a trip to the Edge. The Western Hemisphere’s highest outdoor sky deck is located on the Equinox’s doorstep, and stepping out onto its glass floor suspended 100 stories in the air will delight and terrify in equal measure.
33 Hudson Yards, Manhattan
Price: From $700
Photo: Expedia
The Conrad New York Downtown’s commitment to delivering strong visuals is evident from the moment you step into the atrium. Legendary artist Sol LeWitt’s Loopy Doopy (Blue and Purple), a striking painting that looms ten stories high, is the crowning jewel in the hotel’s extensive contemporary art collection that numbers some 2,000 works across its public areas and 463 suites. All the suites have been refurbished during the pandemic, so expect to find sleek, stylish interiors in every room. For the hotel’s signature views of the New York Harbor, opt for a Hudson River Suite. In the evening, drink in the iconic sight of the Statue of Liberty standing guard over the River Hudson with a cocktail at the distinguished Loopy Doopy rooftop bar, whose name, borrowed from the artwork downstairs, embodies the hotel’s unique positioning as an art-led experience.
102 North End Eve, Manhattan
Price: From $262
Photo: Expedia
Once considered the bohemian heartbeat of Brooklyn, gentrification in the former manufacturing neighborhood of Williamsburg has given it a more polished edge in recent years. Its vintage shops, contemporary street art, and lively indie music scene are all a testament to the creative energy that endures today, however. The Williamsburg Hotel taps into the neighborhood’s storied past with its industrial steel and red-brick facade belying its Art-Deco approach to interior designs. A classy hipster vibe permeates through the property. The highlight here is the swanky rooftop pool and lounge, which offers al fresco dining, top-drawer cocktails, and unobstructed views of Manhattan across the East River unmatched anywhere in Williamsburg. The rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows that bathe the space in natural light but be sure to go for a terrace room if you want your own balcony from which to take advantage of the views of either Brooklyn or the New York skyline.
96 Wythe Avenue, Brooklyn
Price: From $203
Photo: Expedia
In the luxury hotel world, The Peninsula name is synonymous with quality. No other hotel group has been awarded Five-Star status by Forbes across all its locations. The Peninsula New York is another leading example of high-end service at its finest. With its Beaux Arts-style architectural style, primly garbed door staff, and limousine service, The Peninsula exudes all the trappings of classic New York while in the guestrooms and suites, the modern trimmings and surprising roominess give the impression of luxurious apartments. Escape the grip of the city with a few lengths of the tranquil glass-enclosed pool, then step out onto the sun terrace and soak up the views of Fifth Avenue. Meanwhile, the outstanding spa on the 21st floor is widely regarded as the best in the city (and with ten treatment rooms it’s certainly the biggest). But for all The Peninsula’s character and amenities, it’s the exceptional customer service and the attention to detail from the staff that keeps guests returning in droves.
700 5th Avenue, Manhattan
Price: From $701
Photo: Expedia
The Moxy NYC Chelsea is tucked away in Manhattan’s Flower District on the best-smelling block in NYC. True to the Moxy brand, the hotel draws on the neighborhood’s local heritage with a floral theme that runs throughout its interior design from the magnificent flower shop you pass through to reach the lobby to the falling rose petal wallpaper in the bathrooms. The rooms themselves have been crafted with the millennial Instagrammer in mind; light, natural tones are complemented by the characterful industrial furnishings that speak to the Moxy’s fun and spirited values, and the floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views of the city from your bed. On the 35th floor, the rooftop cocktail lounge boasts one of the only 360° views in Manhattan and brings you up close and personal with that most iconic of fixtures on the New York skyline — the Empire State building.
105 W. 28th Street, Manhattan
Price: From $199
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Venice will soon make you book your visit and pay an entry fee
Venice is set to impose a new policy that will go into effect next summer. To act against overtourism, the city will soon require travelers to book their visit in advance and pay an entry fee.
In a report by Italian newspaper La Stampa, tourists on a day trip to Venice will have to pay an entry fee between between $3.50 and $12 depending on the season and enter the city via electronic turnstiles.
Lawmakers just approved the package of restrictions last week. These restrictions were set to take effect earlier but have been postponed due to the pandemic, CNBC explains.
Those visiting Venice during the peak season will have to book reservations early as the city will have strict capacity limits.
Residents or their relatives, children under six, and those staying in local hotels will be exempt from these restrictions. It remains unclear if Venice’s Airbnbs will be classified as local hotels.
This summer, all large cruise ships were banned from Venice. As reported by Matador Network‘s Eben Diskin in July, “all ships weighing over 25,000 tons are prohibited from entering the shallow Giudecca Canal that flows past Piazza San Marco. Only small passenger ferries and goods vessels will be allowed to use the canal. Residents have long advocated for the government to ban large ships from the lagoon, due to their pollution, ill effects on the ecosystem, and even accidents that have injured tourists.”
A version of this article was previously published on July 30, 2020 and was updated on August 26, 2021, with more information.
More like thisNewsItaly finally bans all cruise ships in Venice, for real this timeThe post Venice will soon make you book your visit and pay an entry fee appeared first on Matador Network.
7 coolest wildlife crossings around the world
It might be an unfortunate reality, but animals have to adapt to us more than we do to them. We’ve got the tools, we build the roads, we drive the bulldozers. As we continue our relentless encroachment on animal habitats, we force our feral neighbors into unsafe living conditions, often bordering busy highways and other roads. As highways often bisect delicate ecosystems, the animals living there find themselves separated and isolated, endangering the ones that try to cross over.
To solve this problem, wildlife crossings are being built across highways all over the world. No, I’m not talking about the classic N64 game. Wildlife crossings are bridges or overpasses that extend over highways, allowing wildlife to cross safely. Often intended to blend into the natural environment, the crossings tend to be pretty creatively designed. From the Netherlands to Australia, these are the coolest wildlife crossings in the world.
1. Banff Wildlife Overpass, Canada
Photo: Craig Zerbe/Shutterstock
Banff has been leading the charge in giving animals safe highway passage for over 20 year. The national park, famed for its abundance of wildlife, has built several crossings for the benefit of its native wildlife. There are over six overpasses and 38 underpasses throughout the Trans-Canada Highway, reducing wildlife collisions by 80 percent and making Banff a major success story in the world of animal crossings. Defined by their semi-circular design, and paths lined with flora and greenery, these trailblazing crossings blend seamlessly into the natural environment. And set against the backdrop of Banff’s dramatic peaks, the crossings are arguably an attraction in themselves.
2. Crab Bridge, AustraliaVoir cette publication sur InstagramUne publication partagée par Christmas Island Tourism (@christmasisland)
Christmas Island, far off the northwest coast of Australia, isn’t known for its reindeer and elves, but for its abundant red crab population. Each year 50 million crabs dash toward the sea to spawn, though that annual migration has been disrupted by human infrastructure projects. To apologize for inconveniencing the crabs, and help them reach the sea, the island built a 16-foot-high bridge the crabs can use to cross the road. There have also been 65 miles of plastic barriers and thirty-one crab underpasses installed throughout the island to further assist the crabs on their journey.
3. Blue Penguin Underpass, New ZealandPhoto: Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony/Facebook
Not all wildlife crossings exist aboveground. One of the coolest actually takes the form of a tunnel, and probably not for an animal you’d expect. The town of Omaru on New Zealand’s South Island built an underpass for its korora penguins (little penguins). The korora penguin population is in decline, so the community is doing what it can to make their lives a bit easier. Since the penguins fish at sea but nest on land, the underpass makes it easier for them to travel back and forth underneath the road without endangering themselves in traffic. The underpass has been hugely popular in the penguin community, with an estimated 20 penguins making use of it each night.
4. Elephant Underpass, Kenya
Photo: Lewa Wildlife Conservancy/youtube
Some of Africa’s wildlife are probably too tall for an underpass (we’re looking at you, giraffes), but elephants can greatly benefit from a well-placed crossing and aren’t quite tall enough to hit their heads. Africa’s first elephant underpass opened in 2011 near Mount Kenya, uniting two elephant populations that had been separated by human development. The underpass crosses under a regional highway, allowing elephants to travel safely from one side to the other. The importance of this simple piece of infrastructure can’t be overstated, as it allows elephants to reestablish connectivity with their brethren and reduce habitat pressure within the Lewa area. You can watch the whole process in this video from the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.
5. A556 Green Bridge, United Kingdom
Photo: Gov.UK
Wildlife overpasses in the UK are called “green bridges,” and this one certainly lives up to its name. One of the most notable is the bridge that opened in 2018 above the Knutsford-Bowdon bypass on the A556 in Cheshire. The bridge is covered in greenery, which is intended to attract small animals like voles and badgers, drawing them away from the dangerous road. This crossing is also open to people, so if you feel like a relaxing jaunt across a multi-lane highway, you can help yourself.
6. Nutty Narrows Bridge, United States
Photo: Paul Juser/Shutterstock
The Nutty Narrows bridge in Longview, Washington truly lives up to its name. It’s narrow, and has probably helped transport thousands of nuts during its nearly 60-year lifespan. Stretching high above a busy thoroughfare, the bridge was built to help squirrels safely cross from tree to tree without endangering themselves on the road. It’s construction set an important precedent in Longview, with several similar squirrel bridges being built around the community in the years since.
7. Natuurbrug Zanderij Crailoo, Netherlands
Photo: Pics-xl/Shutterstock
Wildlife in the Netherlands has the privilege of being able to stroll across the longest wildlife crossing in the world. Natuurbrug Zanderij Crailoo, which translates to “sand quarry natural bridge,” is 2,625 feet long and 164 feet wide, crossing roads, railways, and even a sports complex. It often plays host to deer, wild boar, and European badgers.
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From barbecue to sushi, Galveston’s restaurant scene rivals its legendary beaches
Walking into Maceo’s Spice and Import Co. on Galveston Island is a trip through time. Community tables are scrunched among grocery racks filled with house-made spices and sauces for sale. Black-and-white photographs crowd the walls, along with visual non sequiturs: a full-sized bicycle, a collection of surfboards, a tiny statue of Santa wearing a Hawaiian shirt. A refrigerated display is chock-full of specialty cheeses and meats, and the lunch counter’s fist-sized meatballs drenched with tomato gravy taste like they were directly imported from a Sicilian grandmother’s kitchen. Maceo’s is one among many Galveston restaurants that gets overlooked in favor of the city’s reputation as a beach getaway.
For five generations now, the Maceo family has built its legacy this little island off Texas’s Gulf Coast. First arriving in Galveston in the 1900s with a wave of immigrants from all corners of the world (Galveston in that era rivaled Ellis Island as an immigration port), the Maceos hosted 1940s A-list celebs on the island with a legendary underground casino and lounge known as the Balinese Room. Only occasionally would they run afoul of the Texas Rangers.
“Galveston was founded as an international port of commerce from the very beginning. So from our very inception, we had international influence—European, Asian, and all over coming to the island,” Kimber Fountain, a Galveston author and historian, says. “From the very beginning there was this infusion of culture from all over the world, and we just kind of took that in stride.”
Galveston (which is also the site of the Juneteenth proclamation following the end of the Civil War) also saw a rising number of African American entrepreneurs who created thriving restaurants and bars, despite segregation and overall inequality.
“You had a very thriving port down here, and a lot of those restaurants were open 24 hours,” says Greg Samford, a co-author of Lost Restaurants of Galveston’s African American Community. “The barbecue places were open 24 hours. People would come on a Friday or Saturday night and they’d go to one of these little jazz clubs downtown.”
Though all of the restaurants Samford and his coauthors chronicled in their book are gone now, you can still find fantastic examples of Black-owned soul and Southern food in the city, such as Allen’s Kitchen and Grill.
These days, Galveston Island is known to Texas vacationers for its beaches and flip-flop-friendly bars and restaurants, along with its cruise port. Naturally, cuisine trends toward seafood, and shrimp besitos (bacon-wrapped shrimp stuffed with jalapeño and cheese) are considered a signature dish. But it’s also not hard to trace the roots of families like the Maceos and others, who brought their diverse culture and cuisines to this island.
The island’s proximity to Houston (the fourth most populous US city) and its international port status means Indian, Mexican, and Vietnamese flavors feel right at home here, as well as Cajun and Creole influences that stem from Louisiana coastal towns such as New Orleans, albeit with a laidback, beachy vibe. Folks here often tell you they operate on “island time.”
“There was a point when I was younger that I would walk down the Strand [Galveston’s historic downtown corridor] and just think it was like a New Orleans ripoff,” Fountain says. “But there’s a reason that Galveston’s downtown and New Orleans have that similar feel, and it’s because we both had those same influences, so it’s kind of a very natural tapestry that emerged from that.
“And that also led to something that continues to this day, which is a very open-minded community, very accepting and diverse,” Fountain continues. “It was actually me realizing that about modern Galveston that got me interested in history in the first place. How in the world did this little melting pot emerge in Texas, of all places?”
For all the kitschy ghost tours and salacious tales of Galveston’s colorful past you can find here, it’s the historical legacy that continues to draw in visitors’ imaginations and delight them. Just thinking about the kind of spirit that propels people to survive and rebuild from centuries of storms (including the deadliest natural disaster in the US, the storm of 1900) casts its own kind of charm.
“It’s really special to me to be able to continue my family legacy,” says Concetta Maceo, the third generation to help run the Maceo’s restaurant and spice business. “Galveston is such a unique community, and food brought everybody together.”
Where to eat Galveston, Texas
Photo: Maceo Spice and Import Co./Facebook
Leon’s World’s Finest Barbecue: Leon’s is a humble, family-run barbecue joint that serves up smoked meat by the pound, including pork ribs, boudin, and red beans and rice, in what you might consider an homage to some of those legendary African American Galveston restaurants of old. Save room for a slice of rum cake or buttermilk pie.
Where: 5427 Broadway Avenue J (55th and Broadway) , Galveston, TX 77551
Maceo’s Spice and Import Co.: Still bearing the name of the Sicilian family who launched an empire on Galveston Island, the Maceo’s modest restaurant (formerly a bicycle shop) on Market Street draws crowds to sit amongst grocery aisles and devour seriously delicious craft muffaletta and meatball sandwiches.
Where: 2706 Market St, Galveston, TX 77550
Suki Poke By the Sea: In contrast to the two older restaurants, this new Japanese street food restaurant, which opened in 2021, is a great example of playful fusion cuisine establishing itself on Galveston Island. Chef Slevin Tran (formerly of beloved island Japanese restaurant Yamato) and his wife Suki created Galveston’s first poke cafe, which includes menu items like Spam musubi, and takoyaki, Japanese octopus pancake balls.
Where: 427 Market St, Galveston, TX 77550
MoreFood + DrinkYou don’t know the cheesy joy of queso’s original recipe until you visit El PasoThe post From barbecue to sushi, Galveston’s restaurant scene rivals its legendary beaches appeared first on Matador Network.
8 luxury hotel bars in Rome where you can sip in opulence
With its rich history, gorgeous architecture, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder Rome is called The Eternal City. A trip to Italy’s capital is a truly magical experience, whether you’re there to tour the ruins and museums, shop the boutiques on Via del Corso, or get your fill of cacio e pepe, Roman-style pizza, and carciofi alla Romana. Hotels are often the home base for travelers to the city, and there’s no shortage of accommodations that’ll have you living a life of luxury.
Thankfully, you don’t have to have an overflowing bank account to get a taste of the aforementioned grandeur. Even if you’re not staying at one of Rome’s most luxurious hotels, you can still experience the splendor by splurging on fabulous Italian cocktails in a decked out hotel bar. These eight luxury hotel bars are some of the best in the city, perfect for an early evening aperitivo or digestivo to punctuate a day of living la dolce vita.
1. Lumen Garden at The St. Regis RomeThe St. Regis is known for its impeccable service, opulent afternoon tea, and evening Champagne sabering. But the hotel is also known for its cocktails — the bloody mary was invented at the New York St. Regis location in 1934, after all. The St. Regis Rome is one of the city’s finest hotels, and its lush Lumen Garden is an oasis from the hustle and bustle of the ancient city. It’s known for its aperitivo and serves signature cocktails in bespoke glassware designed by contemporary artists. Try the atollo, a mix of Champagne, Italicus Bergamot Liqueur, Cocchi Americano, lemon juice, simple syrup, and gin, served in a shimmering coupe. Or go for the red admiral, the hotel’s bloody mary variation that’s prepared and served tableside.
2. Tiepolo Bar at Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
Photo: Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
Even if you’re not resting your head at Rome Cavalieri, there are a few great ways to enjoy the property. You can book a spa treatment and experience the hotel’s stunning Roman baths, or spend your day lounging by the outdoor pool, which is surrounded by lush flora. But the best way to experience this grand hotel without booking a room is to settle in for a cocktail at Tiepolo Bar, where you’ll find a sumptuous lounge that features gilded details and a prized collection of Venetian artwork. Settle in for an evening negroni while resident pianist Jaffa fills the room with lively jazz, or head there for afternoon tea or a grapefruit collins on the terrace. Whatever you choose to do, Tiepolo Bar is a must-visit when in Rome.
3. The Court Bar at Palazzo ManfrediPalazzo Manfredi is located a few meters from the remains of Ludus Magnus, a gladiator training school that primed fighters for their moment at the Colosseum. And there’s no better way to soak in that view than by sipping a libation at The Court Bar. Behind the stick is Matteo Zed, who wrote a book about amari and is known for his cocktails throughout the world. The Court Bar menu is vast, and the cocktails are divided into sections like fat washing and fermentation & clarification. Try the black mamba, a tropical mix of Appleton Reserve, Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva, Underberg, salty peanut orgeat, tamarind, lime juice, and banana.
4. Hassler Bar at Hassler Roma
Photo: Hassler Roma
Hassler Roma overlooks the Spanish Steps, giving it both great views and great drinks, and is one of the most elegant locales in the city. Every corner of the property is lovely, but the cozy, clandestine Hassler Bar makes for a memorable evening. Outfitted in rich dark wood, red leather upholstery, and gilded details, the glamorous surroundings conjure the mood of a bygone era. If you’re looking for an aperitivo, Hassler Bar’s signature veruschka — a refreshing mix of pomegranate juice and Italian sparkling wine — is an excellent pre-dinner libation.
5. Stravinskij Bar at Hotel de RussieHotel de Russie is one of the most elegant enclaves in Rome, with its uniquely designed suites, luxurious saltwater hydropool, and tiered secret garden. At the center of it all is Stravinskij Bar, an award-winning cocktail destination surrounded by lush groves of pine and citrus trees. The cocktail menu has a drink for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for a spritz, martini, gin and tonic, or mocktail. Come for aperitivo hour and snack on stuzzichini like calamari with squash blossoms while you sip an expertly-made libation. A classic sbagliato or negroni will whet your appetite for dinner, while a signature drink like the little Italy—made with grappa, pineapple cordial, lemon, mint, and chamomile bitters—will give you a taste of the bar’s distinct style.
6. Il Giardino Bar at Hotel Eden
Photo: Hotel Eden
When Hotel Eden opened in 1889, it was the first hotel in Rome to feature an elevator, electricity, and running water. Now the property is known for its sophisticated accommodations, Michelin-starred restaurant, and collection of curated artwork. One of the rooms to especially take note of in the hotel is Il Giardino Bar, a sleek space with sweeping views of the city where you can watch the sunset while listening to live music. Stop by for aperitivo hour and grab a selection of cicchetti (Italian small plates) like fried and stuffed zucchini blossoms and bruschette with mozzarella and anchovies. Pair the salty snacks with la grande bellezza, a fiery hued cocktail made with tamarind-infused rosé vermouth, mandarin, and mezcal.
7. JKBar at J.K Place RomaThis luxury boutique hotel is set inside a Roman townhouse that’s part of the 17th century Palazzo Borghese, and it’s within walking distance of sights like Piazza di Spagna and the Trevi Fountain. Every corner of J.K. Place Roma is lovely, but JKBar is something special. Plush upholstery, dark wood paneling inspired by Tom Ford’s A Single Man, and shelves of hardback books set the tone for a cozy cocktail hour, complete with snacks like tomato and mozzarella suppli. The thoughtfully made and garnished cocktails are almost too pretty to drink. Try the signature J.K. sour that’s made with Disaronno, lemon, and passionfruit.
8. Acquaroof at The First Roma Arte
Photo: The First Roma Arte
If visiting every art gallery in a destination is your idea of a great vacation, The First Roma Arte is the hotel for you. Guest rooms are adorned with contemporary Italian artwork, and suites come outfitted with touches like marble fireplaces and private jacuzzi terraces. But if you’re only stopping by for a drink, you’ll get some of the best panoramic views in the city at Acquaroof. Whether you visit for lunch, aperitivo, or indulge in a dinnertime tasting menu, the cocktails at this rooftop garden do not disappoint. If you’re in a martini mood, try the signature message in a bottle, which is mixed with Acquaroof’s homemade vermouth.
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10 things nude beach regulars wish you’d stop doing
Clothing-optional beaches in the US offer a liberating sense of au natural freedom, all while savoring a day out on the sand. These in-the-buff destinations are diverse and scattered throughout the States; from Florida’s nudist party scene to the laid back naked surfers of California and Hawaii. And while technically, public nudity is punishable by law there are a few states that bend the rules for beach-goers.
But that doesn’t mean there are no general rules of nude beaches you’re expected to follow while warming your nether regions.
I’ve visited nude beaches and clothing-optional hot springs from coast to coast. I’ve stripped down to my birthday suit on packed Miami shores, secluded cliff sides of California, mountain treks in Washington, skin-soothing sulfur ponds of Colorado and New Mexico, and the family-friendly sands of Massachusetts. Throughout my interactions with members of the nudist community and beach regulars, I compiled a list of the universally accepted rules all nude beach regulars wish newcomers were aware of. Here are some of the unwritten rules of nude beaches and things nude beach regulars wish you would stop doing.
1. Feeling like you have to bare it allUndress only to your comfort level. Whether that means donning a revealing bikini, topless tanning, or stripping buck naked straight out of the gate — the choice is up to you. After all, in the US most “nude” beaches are clothing-optional. There’s no judgment here if you’re not ready to lose your bottoms.
2. Assuming every nude beach has the same vibeJust like traditional beaches, every nude beach is different. Before you go to a new-to-you nude beach, be sure to do your research on that particular stretch of sand. Some beaches tend to draw a community of regulars that use this time in the sun as a social hour. Some are particularly popular with the LGBTQ community, some with families or those seeking a quiet refuge to sunbathe in solitude. Simply reading the reviews on Yelp can reveal a lot about the clientele. Or browse the small list of beaches that the Naturist Society has put together that adhere to their strict social guidelines of “respecting boundaries, the people, and the beach itself”.
3. Sitting far too close to your fellow beach-goersYour towel is your happy place. The only strip of privacy you have to retreat to after strutting down the sand in the buff. If there’s a huge stretch of open sand and you place your towel within five feet of me, you’re breaking one of the unspoken rules of bare it all beaches. Depending on the beach’s particular social environment, some people like to mingle and you might be coaxed into an au natural small talk session. But don’t encroach on anyone’s sacred towel space.
4. Taking photosWhile technically there are no “official” laws against taking photos of any kind on nude beaches, there is a social code of conduct. You should never photograph anyone without their explicit permission. While regulars understand that you may want to snap a selfie of this uncommon experience, be extra careful that you’re not capturing your unwitting neighbors in the buff. You can always move to a more secluded portion of the beach to take scenic photos or face the waves instead of the crowd.
5. PDAThe one written rule of clothing-optional beaches is no lewd conduct. Nude beaches are not your foreplay. They are not meant to be erotic and any sexual acts or heavy petting are not welcome in the community. A good rule of thumb is — if you wouldn’t do it on a family-friendly beach, don’t do it here.
6. Hitting on your fellow beach-goersEnough said. I’m not saying you can’t find true love naked, but you should always respect the boundaries of those around you. Try to be particularly receptive of social cues to avoid coming off as creepy. And you absolutely should not visit a nude beach expecting to come home with a phone number.
7. StaringI don’t want to harp on respecting boundaries, but according to the American Association for Nude Recreation, there’s nothing more important than respecting yourself, others, and the beach. Staring can make people uncomfortable. It’s as simple as that.
8. Stretching or working out in front of the beachYou know when you sit in an empty movie theatre and the group who comes in after you chooses the seats directly in front of you, right in your line of view of the screen. It’s like that. But naked. Add in your beach workout or yoga routine and your fellow beach-goers are getting to see a lot more of you than they bargained for. The polite choice would be to choose a more secluded section of sand or seat yourself toward the back of the beach.
9. Making a huge fuss over families sunning at nude beachesIn many cultures all around the world, nudity isn’t in itself a sexual state of being. Many families who want to raise their kids with a healthy relationship to their natural state often frequent clothing-optional beaches. That being said if you plan to bring your children to a nude beach, be sure to do your homework and ensure that the beach in question seems to be a kid-friendly place. You should always visit on your own beforehand and use your best judgment.
10. Being so self-consciousEasier said than done, but remember birthday suit beachgoers have seen it all. No amount of body hair, cellulite, or sagging is going to surprise anyone here. Considering the average age of beachgoers at most US clothing-optional shores is closer to 50 than 20, regulars are often very comfortable in their au natural state. Full bush, no bush, scars, warts and all, the human body is a powerful vessel and nude beaches can be a great way to build self-confidence and practice self-love.
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August 25, 2021
The FAA’s new threatening commercial wants you to know ‘unruly behavior doesn’t fly’
As reports of unruly passengers on flights increase, the Federal Aviation Administration has developed creative ways to inform flyers about its new zero-tolerance policy, including memes and a commercial that uses kids to condemn the behavior. But the FAA’s latest video takes a more grim approach, using the voices of pilots reporting incidents and how that can be a distraction during the flight.
New Unruly Passenger Numbers since 1/1/2021:
– 3,988 unruly reports
– 2,928 refusing to wear a mask reports
– 693 investigation initiated
– 132 cases with penalties
Learn more at https://t.co/UpB2VL14s9.#FlySmart pic.twitter.com/yEMvPoaR1j
— The FAA ✈️ (@FAANews) August 24, 2021
Gloomy music in the background is accompanied by sounds of an incident occurring in the cabin. At the same time, pilots are heard over the airways saying things like: “We’ve got a disruptive customer in the back,” “We’d like to divert,” and “We need to get off the airplane.” The ending states, “You don’t want your pilots distracted. Unruly behavior doesn’t fly.” It’s unconfirmed whether the audio is from real or staged incidents.
The 3,988 reports of unruly passenger behavior listed in the tweeted video include nine passengers that hadn’t been reported in the press release just five days prior. Over 73 percent of cases are due to flyers who refuse to wear their mask. The refusal breaks a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) order passed in 2020 that requires masks to be worn on all public transportation, including flights and inside airports. In 2019, less than 150 cases were reported.
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This bourbon train is the ultimate whiskey drinking experience in the US
Calling all bourbon lovers: My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is back on the tracks as of Aug. 21. It’s like those popular wine trains, but with a little more heft from America’s classic spirit.
The train covers 36 miles over the course of two and a half hours on 1940s vintage dining cars that are pulled by two 1950s F-unit locomotives. The train ride begins in Bardstown, Kentucky, also known as the Bourbon Capital of the World thanks to its 11 local and regional distilleries. You’ll pass by notable sites including the Jim Beam distillery, Jesse James’s safe house, and the Jackson Hollow Trestle in the Bernheim Forest.
Photo: Visit Bardstown/Twitter
Riders will also get to enjoy a four-course meal, prepared fresh on board, paired with a complimenting bourbon. Master distillers will help passengers pick the right fit while teaching the history and craft of the spirit.
Tickets start at $115 per person, with the option to purchase a more private setting. Online tickets are no longer available, but you can call the reservation number to snag a few seats.
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To the Black women who want to venture outdoors — here’s how I got started
VENTURING OUTDOORS certainly is not a novel phenomenon for Black women and yet, I still find many women who look like me and come from similar places as me scouring YouTube channels and internet threads for a helpful outdoorsy guide. My family and I, frequent adventurers, moved from Connecticut to North Carolina in 2013. Despite having visited often, it wasn’t until relocating that I realized the state’s diverse makeup, like Blowing Rock’s beautiful mountains and Pine Knoll Shores’ sandy beaches and breathtaking sunsets. Exploring these areas helped me grow from a once-novel hiker into an experienced and passionate outdoor adventurer. Here’s how you can begin exploring the world outside.
I talked to locals about spots to exploreOne of the best outdoor adventures that I’ve ever had was in Ghana — and it was because of a conversation with a Ghanaian person who knew all about the must-see mountains and waterfalls. Several Black Americans like myself were studying abroad at the University of Ghana for 4 months, which often meant more time outdoors than on-campus. Exploring a new country for the first time can not only be time-consuming but also costly. Speaking with locals is the best way to find out how to make experiences as affordable as possible. This also helps to ensure you know what you’re getting into, what to expect, and what to bring when embarking on an outdoor adventure.
For example, Adom Waterfalls, a hidden outdoor spot in Aburi, was only one hour from where my friends and I lived on-campus. Without inquiring about where to go, we likely would never have found this place and even if we had, it would have been a guessing game figuring out how to get there. Online research was iffy regarding cost, directions, and whether the area was even accessible to the public. But as we learned through word of mouth, apart from paying a guide (or local friend) to reach the waterfalls by foot, the only other expense is paying for an Uber, Bolt, or taxi ride to get there.
Photo: Izf/Shutterstock
I learned to make the most of where I was goingEven if one cannot take international trips, that does not mean that the world cannot still be seen. A state like North Carolina is for lovers of beaches, camping, cycling, and pretty much anything that takes place in the great outdoors. A practical tip is to explore nearby places, at least at first. Learn as much as possible about the area prior to arriving, including entrance prices where necessary. This is the best way to have more fun and maximize your time and experience. Also, take a moment to identify when is the best time to visit.
For example, hiking at the stunning Crowders Mountain State Park (where there are no entry fees to enjoy the park), is best in the early morning or afternoon, in part because it’s easier to park before beginning the walk to the actual trail. Many spots can appeal to diverse interests, as well. Where permitted, Crowders Mountain also offers opportunities to boat and fish, bicycle, and camp, just to name a few activities. Such an array of options isn’t uncommon — but learn about where you are visiting to ensure that you are following all laws.
I move at my own pace — literallyIt can be intimidating to go on an outdoor adventure with individuals who are frequent hikers, safari explorers, even runners. Not only are avid adventurers more likely to know what to wear, which trails to take, and what necessities to pack, they often physically move at a faster pace.
The hike to the top of Mount Agomatsa in Ghana was a three-hour journey. I noticed how much I lagged behind not only my Ghanaian peers but also those from Europe and even the United States — those who had hiked many mountains back home.
Even though I’d climbed Crowders Mountain near Charlotte just the year before, I quickly realized on this hike that each adventure presents not only its unique beauty but also a unique battle, as well. No mountain, trail, or savannah is the same. We all must pace ourselves according to our own body — and that’s alright. Before climbing a country’s tallest mountain, consider finding trails in your local area and walking briskly. Then continue to elevate, perhaps by hiking a smaller mountain in a nearby state. No one should feel ashamed or be demeaned because of the level of intensity at which they move outdoors. Regardless of pace, in the end, we all reach the same destination.
Photo: yurakrasil/Shutterstock
I try to be open-minded and venture with like-minded peopleFor new outdoor adventurers, feeling comfortable often comes down to who you’re with. The best type of people to explore the outside world with are people who are also adventurous, no matter their level of experience. I keep this mantra in mind when choosing an excursion partner: adventure with the person who’d mention the freshness in the air right after pausing for a sigh of exhaustion. Explore with somebody who’d stop by a nearby stream to admire it gushing as opposed to hopping over it in an effort to quickly reach the mountain top. See the world with the one enamored of both the going and the goal. And of course, YOU need to be that person, too.
It’s important to see the world with people whose definition of “fun” is similar to your own. If that means you like to kick up dust while walking down paths, you might want to reach out to the friend who doesn’t mind sweating and having sneaker soles colored red by the end of day one. It can be challenging to make certain mental shifts if one has grown up being told that Black women are not adventurous, do not enjoy being outside, or something to those effects; this could not be further from the truth, and the groups of outdoorsy women online who look like me are proof that we do exist boldly and happily. It all starts in the mind. And if you do not see anybody around you who holds your same sentiment, find other Black women who also enjoy being outdoors. Kena Peay is my all-time favorite “outdoor lover,” as she calls herself. Just about every day, this adventurer takes her Instagram followers to different, wondrous places like Yosemite National Park, beautiful beaches in Santa Barbara, Mount Rainier National Park, and Burney Falls by way of the app’s Story and page features so much so I often feel as though I’m also hiking or beside her watching the sun set.
Kena provides a plethora of must-see views, always encourages her followers to do what THEY physically can, and often shares outdoor travel essentials. She is a must-follow whether one is a beginner or seasoned adventurer.
A collective community that I deeply enjoy is GirlTrek. This is a health organization (the largest, in fact) for African-American women and girls in the United States, as their website says. GirlTrek sees walking as a practical start for healthy lives, families, and communities. I especially love GirlTrek because the resource embraces every type of Black woman adventurer. In this empowering organization, the one who does not like to or is unable to hike, mountain climb, or anything else for whatever reason may still find community in a group of Black women who enjoy whatever it is she is into.
Wear comfortable clothing and shoesThis may seem like a no-brainer, but some people show up to hike in slide sandals (*cough cough* I may or may not be guilty). The goal is to be comfortable but not to the point where clothing or footwear choices cause injury. In Ghana, one of the many hikes that I went on was in the Volta Region. We hiked Mount Afadjato (Ghana’s highest mountain) and Mount Agomatsa (as well as saw the Wli Waterfalls) all in one weekend. Interestingly enough, it was while going down Mount Afadjato when I twisted my foot and then had to be excused from dance class for three days.
I’ve seen avid outdoor travelers hike in sweatpants, athletic shorts, and leggings — this is not just contingent upon environment and temperature but simply one’s personal preference. Indisputable, though, is footwear: I suggest investing in trail hiking shoes, but a great alternative for non-frequent hikers is a sturdy, comfortable pair of walking shoes because a tremendous amount of moving is involved. Last but not least, wear items that you don’t mind getting dirty and/or torn, should you happen to snag your shirt on a thin branch. It happens to me quite a bit.
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