Matador Network's Blog, page 597
August 17, 2021
Is this claustrophobia-inducing ‘ride’ the scariest theme park attraction in the country?
When you think of theme park rides, images that probably come to mind are rollercoasters, Ferris wheels, and merry-go-rounds. It’s highly doubtful that you’re thinking about a cave simulator.
The Speleobox Cave Simulator (speleology is the study of caves) is located at the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. The attraction consists of 300 feet of cave passages inside an eight by 12-foot wooden structure. Although the ride design says it’s “suitable for kids and adults,” the entryway only gives ride-goers room to crawl through, and you’ll have to commit to 15 minutes inside. It’s similar to how speleologists crawl through tight, uneven, and winding caves, but minus the novelty of being in an actual cave. TikToker Damen Tomassi visited the attraction and said you would never catch him riding that thing.
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If heights and rides with tracks are more your speed, the park offers plenty of other ways to get your kicks, as well as some actual caves that are significantly more roomy. Choosing to stick yourself in a one-way cave simulation must have some target audience, though. Would you ever take on the Speleobox, or is it too claustrophobic for you? 
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New glass-domed train
A journey through the Rocky Mountains isn’t just a trip from point A to point B. It’s a ride you’ll want to savor as best you can by taking in all the views along the way. A new luxury train route is designed to help passengers do just that. Courtesy of Rocky Mountaineer, the Rockies to the Red Rocks journey started operating on August 16, 2021, bringing passengers from Moab, Utah, to Denver, Colorado through Utah’s iconic natural arches and the Rocky Mountains, stopping overnight in Colorado’s Glenwood Springs.
Photo: Rocky Mountaineer/Facebook
Rocky Mountaineer is known for its glass-domed trains and outdoor viewing platforms. Its aim is to highlight the stunning landscapes it traverses.
Photo: Rocky Mountaineer/Facebook
The Rocky Mountaineer teases potential with a dreamy description of this unique train ride “Journey through two days of extraordinary landscapes between Moab, Utah and Denver, Colorado. Vast canyons, inspiring deserts, natural archways and enchanting hoodoos are just a start. […] this Rocky Mountaineer rail route is filled with highlights best seen by train, including Ruby Canyon, Mount Logan and crossing the Continental Divide.”
A two-day trip starts at $1,250 per person, including a one-night hotel stay in Glenwood Springs (at either the Glenwood Hotel Colorado, the Hotel Denver or the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort), all meals and drinks.
This year, the Rockies to the Red Rocks trips will run until November 19, 2021. Check out all the trips and offers available this year on the Rocky Mountaineer’s website.
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8 Curaçao restaurants that’ll give you a taste of this beautiful island
Curaçao is a colorful Dutch island that’s the C in the ABC Islands (Aruba and Bonaire being the other two). Located about 90 miles north of Venezuela, the temperature stays in the 80s year-round, and it’s situated in the southern portion of the Caribbean that’s outside the hurricane belt.
There’s no mistaking the Dutch influence on the island. Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao, was founded by the Dutch West India Company, and its most recognizable landmark is the row of brightly colored Dutch colonial buildings on the Haldelskade waterfront. But Curaçao is also distinctly Caribbean. About 90 percent of the population speaks the native Creole language Papiamentu along with English, Dutch, or Spanish.
The island’s diversity is on full display at Curaçao’s restaurants. Visitors to the island can expect to find delicious Caribbean, Asian, Latin, and Italian dishes that incorporate ingredients local to the island. From traditional Caribbean comfort food to elevated Italian fare, these are the best restaurants to experience the cuisine of Curaçao.
1. Plasa BieuFor those looking for an authentic Caribbean meal, head to Plasa Bieu. Also known as Marche Bieu, the open-air food hall is located in the neighborhood of Punda in Willemstad. It’s casual, and is popular with locals who often take their lunch breaks here. After you order, food is eaten community style on plastic-covered picnic tables. Plasa Bieu has several different vendors to choose from, and some of the standout dishes include stewed fish, rice and beans, and plantains, all of which are prepared over wood-fired stoves. Plasa Bieu has been serving up delicious homestyle food in generous portions for decades, and it’s open for lunch Monday through Saturday.
2. Bario Urban Street Food
Photo: Bario Urban Street Food/Facebook
Bario Hotel and Bar is a hard-to-miss, buttercup yellow hotel in the historic neighborhood of Ser’i Otroband. Here, you’ll find Bario Urban Street Food, one of the best places to eat on the island. The al fresco food court features food stalls, a spot for creative craft cocktails, and live performances. One of the highlights at Bario Urban Street Food is Lionfish and Mangos, a food stall that serves up the invasive lionfish in a number of ways. Guests can enjoy fishcakes, bacon-wrapped fish bites, dumplings, and pizza, all made with the species. Don’t leave here without trying the Otrobanda Colada made with local blue Curaçao liqueur.
3. SerafinaThe best Italian food in Curaçao is at Serafina. Set in Willimsted’s historic district, Serafina feels like eating an intimate meal with family. The restaurant is located in what used to be a residential home, and meals are best enjoyed in the warmly lit, intimate courtyard. While everything here is good, you can’t go wrong with the fettuccine beef ragu or the fresh red snapper. There’s also an impressive portfolio of Italian wines to pair with dinner, and for dessert, try the simple but decadent lemon tart. Because Serafina uses local ingredients, the menu changes with the seasons, so be sure to ask your waiter for any seasonal specials.
4. Fish and Joy Bistro and Wine Bar
Photo: Fish and Joy/Facebook
Located in the trendy neighborhood of Pietermaai in Willemstad, Fish and Joy is a partnership between the beloved seafood restaurant Fishalicious and the wine bar Joy. The restaurant offers a global menu with dishes from Asia, Europe, and the Caribbean. The menu is filled with small plates like takoyaki crab (Japanese crab beignets), Scottish salmon, and ceviche wahoo. On the bar side, Joy offers 50 different wines and an extensive Champagne selection. If you can, grab a table outside and enjoy the warm breeze while eating dinner on the beautifully decorated patio.
5. Baoase Culinary BeachFor an upscale dining experience, head to Baoase Culinary Beach, located in one of Curaçao’s finest resorts, Baoase Luxury Resort Curaçao. The Balinese-inspired resort is located on the south side of the island, and the restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Splurge on one of the three- or five-course dinners, or order items from the a-la-carte menu. Diners can enjoy meals right on the beach or in the restaurant’s private gazebos. The menu rotates, but there’s always a selection of fresh seafood like salmon and lobster. On Saturdays, the restaurant hosts a Culinary Barbeque Night, and on Sundays the menu shifts to focus on foods from Asia.
6. BKLN
Photo: BKLYN/Facebook
Fans of 90s hip hop music and creative dishes will love BKLN, a laid-back restaurant in the Pen Square area of Curaçao. The restaurant is within walking distance of Willemstad, making it an ideal stop after a day of sightseeing. The food is a mix of Caribbean bites with Brooklyn flare. There’s a savory pumpkin soup, bao buns (choose from tuna. crispy chicken, or jackfruit), and fried okra served alongside loaded Brooklyn-style hot dogs. The cocktails here are tasty, too. The No Sleep ‘Til BKLN (a nod to the Beastie Boys tune) includes coffee rye, picon, maraschino, dry vermouth, and orange bitters.
7. Mosa RestaurantMosa is a restaurant that’s best enjoyed with friends and family. It opened in 2016 and has served mouthwatering meals made with fresh, local ingredients ever since. The charming Willemstad restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating, but you’ll want to eat outside under the hanging lights on the patio. Mosa offers small plates that are meant to be shared, and the menu combines Caribbean and European flavors. The tightly curated menu includes tzatziki, tuna tartar, and savory servings of tender flat iron steaks. Order at least three plates per diner for a true sampling of the flavors.
8. Kome
Photo: kome/Facebook
“Kome” is the Papiamentu word for “eat,” and that’s exactly what you’ll want to do when you step foot inside this charming restaurant. If you can only make it for one meal, head here for brunch. On weekends, locals and visitors line up at Kome for an eclectic brunch menu that serves chicken and waffles and cheeseburgers alongside steak and eggs and cured fish and caviar. The rest of the menu is a mix and match of Caribbean, Latin, and Asian flavors. Try the crunchy Thai chicken, Kome tacos, or the risotto del dia. There’s also a great selection of wines, craft beers, and cocktails.
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In Delphi, Greece, a hike to a mystical cave is as cool as the ruins
Upon arrival in Delphi, Greece, it’s hard to shake the sense that, if the world has a center, it might be right here. This was true, at least according to Zeus, who discerned this through the flight of two birds (Greeks knew Earth to be round). No doubt, Apollo accepted this conclusion when he decided that the location for his Temple would be in Delphi, today a small village in the foothills.
On a hot June day, the Greek sailors of Itea, a coastal village less than seven miles from Delphi, were said to be fishing for mackerel. As the sun bore down on their sweat-slicked shoulders, a dolphin — the Greek word for which is “delfíni” — soared up from the Mediterranean waves and plopped itself onto the deck of their ship. Not only was this dolphin clearly capable of an impressive vertical leap, but it also seemed to have a considerable command of the spoken Greek language. Which, even in 750 BC, was an extraordinary occurrence, and a dead giveaway that a god had come to call.
The legend continues: Apollo, speaking in his Dolphin form, told them to build a temple near there, in the navel of the world. If they did, he would ensure they have all the riches and food they would ever need. The sailors complied, collected donations, and crafted marble into one of the country’s most unsurpassed temples.
The now-ruins of this magnificent temple are why this small town at the foot of Mt. Parnassus draws tourists. That was why I had come. But I discovered something more wondrous on that journey. Now, I will always remember Delphi as the trailhead for the hike to the sanctuary of the gods: Corycian Cave.
Arriving in Delphi
Photo: Reece McCart Young
Delphi is very accessible to the average traveler, both by car and public transit. It is about a two-and-a-half-hour drive north of Athens on the Lamia highway, towards the snow-capped peaks of Parnassus. I arrived by bus, taking one of the many affordable options offered by KTEL buses that depart regularly from Athens’s city center.
Right off the bus, we sauntered along a cliff’s edge, through tallgrass that muffled the stone gymnasium that lay under our feet — a place perhaps used as a training ground by the first Olympic athletes. We found ourselves at the ruins of Athena’s temple, its fragmented remains maintaining a bearing both mystic and wise. From our elevated location, we peered through the deep valley below to see the sun duck into the blue Mediterranean, shimmering the last of its warmth onto the seaside towns of Kirra, Galaxidi, and Itea.
Come for the ruins; Stay for the trails
Photo: Reece McCart Young
We bought a pass to explore the museums and ancient ruins of the area. As students, we received a reduced rate of six euros, half the price of a regular ticket. We sauntered through the great marble skeletons that surrounded the Temple of Apollo until finally arriving at the temple itself. It stopped me in my tracks. We suddenly became drenched in the ether of Apollo; in light and sun and harmony and all things he represented. I was lost in this ineffable moment, until a voice floated in.
“You must walk well above the temple, my friends,” we overheard a tour guide say, “so that you may view the wonder of this ancient temple from above, but only so you may see it as a part of the phenomenal natural world that is dedicated and credited to Gaea, mother of all. Never forget my friends: out here, Gaea rules all.”
Upon hearing this, we booked another night at our accommodation — one of the small, charming inns that fill Delphi — and spoke to some locals about the trails up the mountain. It was then that we learned about Corycian Cave.
The trail to Corycian Cave
Photo: Reece McCart Young
Corycian Cave feels like a well-kept legend. We found no map online. Directions were provided by a local jeweller, scratched onto a blank white page. The cave is 400 feet above sea level. The trail itself is about six miles each way and takes about 7-8 hours as a round trip. Although you can fill up your water bottles along the way at two springs with potable water, ensure that you bring enough food to keep you going all day. As you plan your journey, make sure you grant yourself ample time to explore and experience the cave. I found it hard to pry myself away from it.
The trail begins at the northernmost and highest road of Delphi. The trailhead is among tallgrass and wildflowers but can be identified by the yellow diamond that reads “E4.” Some of this ancient path has been incorporated into the E4 European Long-Distance Trail, a mega-trail that stretches from Tarifa, Spain, in the west all the way to its eastern terminus in Cyprus. Keep careful look out for these yellow diamonds to confirm your way for the first two hours of the hike. They should appear once a kilometre (or .6 miles), but some have been draped in moss and may be hard to spot.
After winding through tallgrass, the hums of the nearby bee farm will start to fade and you will arrive at an ancient zig-zagging cobblestone path. As you climb your way up, you will be treated to magnificent views of Apollo’s Temple and all of Delphi’s antiquity. As you climb higher, the azure hues of the Mediterranean’s Adriatic Sea will try and persuade you to linger — but pushing forward is well worth it.
Splitting off from the E4 European trail
Photo: Reece McCart Young
Once you arrive atop the cliffs, the trail flattens, and you will have reached Kroki Spring. Drink up and fill up. Then, look up. Far in the distance, you can see the tallest peak of Mt. Parnassus, soaring past 8,000 feet in altitude, in all its glory and myth.
Your path now diverges from the E4 European Long-Distance Trail. Instead of yellow diamonds, follow faded red markings painted on the ground and trailside rocks. Head to the right of Kroki Spring and the small stone chapel. As you follow the trail you’ll pass some summer cottages. Don’t worry, you’re not trespassing. The owners of one quaint farmhouse we passed even offered us some freshly made cheese.
Not far along, you’ll merge with an asphalt road that moves through a forest of fir and, in a little over a mile, joins with a dirt road. A few hundred yards down the dirt road you’ll see Pangia church, where you’ll find another fresh spring with drinking water. Keep following the dirt road past the church but keep an eye out on the left of the road for a sign reading “Corycian Cave” in English and Greek – signifying that you’ve reached the trailhead for your final trek.
The last twenty minutes of path is craggy and steep. As you scramble up a rocky trail, lush green bull pastures at well over 300 feet of altitude take your breath away. (Perhaps it was the climb, but I like to think otherwise).
“How much farther!?” my hiking mate asked, gulping at our water.
“Ten minutes maybe?” I said, pausing.
Twenty seconds down the path, I turned a corner and exclaimed “Ah! Here it is!”
I love those moments.
Exploring Corycian Cave
Photo: Reece McCart Young
We had made it to Corycian Cave by midday. We took in the magnitude and inviolability of the cavern with wonder and humility. I cannot say how long we stood there, watching the sun’s light dance through the lips of the cave, as if provoking the hungry darkness.
Then, without saying a word to one another, we entered.
Following the sunlit mossy grotto near the entrance of the cave, was a large black wall face that appeared barren.
“Many parts of the cave have not yet even been dared to be explored by humans,” we learned later, from a local. It made sense. The cave was much larger than I had expected, leading to places where the sun could not follow.
Once our eyes adjusted to the darkness, we noticed a rope, drenched in milky mud, dangling from the top. Hikers can go as deep as they dare. I could not help but wonder what strange things creep in the dark places of the world. We were grateful to have brought our headlamps.
The deeper we got, the thicker the air became. Stalactites skulked from the ceiling and stalagmites rose from the floor around every opening. Fuzzy black bats harbored in every nook. Glowworms occasionally peeped out for a second or less, until a rock echoed and spooked them away. About twenty minutes into the cave, the only way to go was through a claustrophobic crawl path. After a careful advance, I could see it went on in the same way as far as I could discern. My stomach grumbled. Sandwiches seemed to call louder than adventure at this point and we made our way back through the darkness.
Centuries ago, worshippers of Gaea, and those turned away from the Oracle of Delphi, would walk this path with reverence. The cave is mythically the winter home of Pan, god of the wild and shepherds. Pan, in this very cave, is said to have hosted Gaea while she mused on her union with the Titans, and to have provided sanctuary to the Corycian Nymphs, the namesakes of the cave.
We felt entirely alone, in this place so marked by the gods that all else seemed to recede — a rare experience for a traveler.
We had no sightings of nymphs, nor Gaea, nor Pan, yet the Corycian air was not that of a stifled cave. It felt hallowed. As I stood where gods once had, exhausted and proud. I understood, for the first time in my life, the meaning of worship.
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The 12 best Myrtle Beach Airbnbs for the perfect beach getaway
Myrtle Beach is a classic East Coast vacation spot. With the famous boardwalk, scenic golf courses, and white sand beaches, there’s something for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. A seaside motel may have a sentimental charm, but nothing beats the prices and advantages that come from staying in an Airbnb, and Myrtle Beach has some amazing rentals to choose from.
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.
1. Eclectic oceanfront luxury right on the water with pool and hot tub
Photo: Airbnb
Best for: Large groups
This luxury escape is not your mother’s beach rental, not unless she was a very ambitious interior designer. Exploring the rooms in this eight-bedroom home will be an activity in and of itself. When you’re finished admiring the space, you can take a dip in your private pool or walk straight out onto the beach. It’s tucked away in a largely residential area of the Golden Mile neighborhood, so you can enjoy your privacy during the day and all the best dining and nightlife after dark. This space would be perfect for bachelorette/bachelor parties, or for a group of friends who like to step outside of the norm.
Sixteen guests, eight bedrooms
Price: $1,309 a night
Photo: Airbnb
Best for: Groups, families
Location, location, location. Where else could you and 11 other people stay directly on the beach with resort amenities for $30 each a night? This spacious condo overlooks the ocean from the eighteenth floor of the Paradise Resort, complete with beach access, pools, hot tubs, a lazy river, gym, tiki bar, and a Ben and Jerry’s. If by some miracle you run out of things to do on site, you’re less than three miles away from the boardwalk and the Market Common for dining, shopping, and fun.
Twelve guests, three bedrooms
Price: $355 a night
Photo: Airbnb
Best for: Solo travelers, couples, remote workers
This adorable studio makes up in character what it lacks in size. It has a light and airy energy, from the curtains above the bed to the granite countertops. It looks more like the apartment of your coolest friend than a vacation rental. The studio is situated on the 21st floor of the Palace Resort. Not only will you have great beach access, but you’ll be able to take advantage of the resort’s amenities, including the pool, bar, restaurant, arcade, and putt-putt course. Whether you go alone or with a friend, you’ll probably want to move in.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $191 a night
Photo: Airbnb
Best for: Families, small groups
This brand new home is situated in a quaint neighborhood where the streets are lined with brightly colored family getaways. If you don’t mind stepping away from the beachfront for a lower price, this space will suit you and your family perfectly. With a kitchen prepared for cooking meals of all sizes and a flat-screen television in every bedroom, it’s an ideal landing spot after a day at the beach. It’s also a great launching spot for a night on the town, with the boardwalk and the Broadway at the Beach shopping center just minutes down the road.
Eleven guests, four bedrooms
Price: $443 a night
Photo: Airbnb
Best for: Couples, families, remote workers
Who says you need to go down to the beach to get a tan? With the amount of time you’ll be spending on this balcony, you won’t need to. This condo has a picturesque view and an equally beautiful deck to view it from. Inside you’ll be greeted by tropical decor in all shades of pink, blue, and green. In typical Myrtle Beach fashion, this rental is inside of a resort, so you’ll get to use all of the perks that come with that. If you’re craving an outing, two beautiful golf courses are within a five-minute drive.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $179 a night
Photo: Airbnb
Best for: Solo travelers, couples, remote workers
Blue and beautiful, this cozy little one-bedroom is perfect for a solo traveler or couple. For a price lower than the standard hotel room you could be just a stone’s throw from the beach, walking distance to restaurants and shops, and a short drive from the city center. The decor is simple, modern, and almost entirely in shades of blue. It would be the perfect retreat for a remote worker looking to catch some rays and waves without missing a day of work or a thrifty couple looking for a romantic getaway without a daunting price tag.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $125 a night
Photo: Airbnb
Best for: Large groups
The Golden Mile is the most sought-after neighborhood in Myrtle Beach. It’s located right in the middle of the best shopping, dining, and nightlife, and as a bonus, it’s a two-minute walk to the beach. This three-story home is tastefully decorated, has plenty of private sleeping areas, and even has its own elevator. With five bathrooms and plenty of room for cars in the driveway, it’s the perfect place for a big group of friends to meet up and have an unforgettable time.
Sixteen guests, five bedrooms
Price: $470 a night
Photo: Airbnb
Best for: Families, remote workers, small groups
If you’re the kind of person who would like to roll out of bed and step straight into a waterpark, you’re going to love this condo. Located within the Dunes Village Resort, you’ll have access to all the amenities and activities the resort provides. This would be the ideal rental for a family with one or more remote workers. With a supervised kid’s club, the little ones could have a full day of activities while parents take meetings and calls, all while looking out at one of the best views you could imagine.
Ten guests, two bedrooms
Price: $555 a night
Photo: Airbnb
Best for: Groups, families
Not everyone who goes to the beach wants their space to be decked out in seashells and clam figurines. This condo would be best described as “beach chic.” Former guests have raved about the beauty of the space and the view, which you can admire by stepping out onto the 30-foot-long balcony. You’ll have direct beach access and the use of a pool that’s practically on the sand. The property is a short drive away from some truly beautiful golf courses, so make sure you book a tee time.
Fourteen guests, four bedrooms
Price: $365 a night
Photo: Airbnb
Best for: Large groups, families
This is the kind of beach house that you’d see in a movie. With classic decor, luxurious amenities, and stunning outdoor space, this rental will probably make you feel like a king. If the pillared bathtub wasn’t enough, the pool and in-ground hot tub send it over the top. It’s located in the upscale Long Bay Estates neighborhood. This area borders the Myrtle Beach State Park and is just south of the Market Common which is known for high-end shopping and dining. The price may seem steep, but when you consider how many people you can fit, it’s perfectly reasonable.
Sixteen guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,434 a night
Photo: Airbnb
Best for: Remote workers, families, groups
If you have an eye for design, you’ll feel right at home here. Not only is it decorated in the sort of style you might see in the home of a young influencer, but it’s only 250 feet from the beach. With an interior that you’re going to want to hang out in and a private pool for you to relax by, it would be a dream setting for your remote work. You’re just a quick drive from lovely shops and restaurants, but you may end up hunkering down here instead.
Thirteen guests, five bedrooms
Price: $145 a night
Photo: Airbnb
Best for: Couples, families, remote workers
This condo is where coastal decor meets whimsy. While it may look like a somewhat normal beach theme, there are a few details that make it entirely unique. The king bed is lined with colorful LED lights, a psychedelic electric fireplace is mounted to the wall, and you can read a book in the swing on the balcony. The Caravelle Resort offers amenities and activities to guests of all ages. If you’re looking to go off-campus, multiple well-loved restaurants are within walking distance.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $182 a night
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The ultimate road trip through wineries, salt flats, and colonial towns on Argentina’s Ruta 40
There’s so much more to Argentina than Buenos Aires, Iguazú Falls, and Mendoza — you only have to take a road trip in Salta to find out. A two-hour flight from the capital, Salta is a somewhat off-the-radar region. Quaint colonial towns, dusty Andean villages, and wine bodegas sit framed by dramatic mountain peaks and fascinating red rock formations. Throw in some beguiling salt flats and the highest pass on any national highway in the world and it’s all rather spectacular.
If you’re thinking that this sounds ideal for a road trip then you’d be absolutely right. Winding through the province is Argentina’s mythical Ruta 40, a national highway that stretches some 3,227 miles from the top to the bottom of the country. Salta’s section runs for about 220 miles and includes both paved and dirt track sections. You could cover it all in one long day of driving but you’d be missing out on a lot of fun if you did. For the most comfortable experience — and to ease your way around the dirt highway areas — we recommend going by 4WD drive vehicle or motorbike. Check out Cactus Rent a Car and Moto Alquiler Salta for options. Now here are some of the not-to-be-missed stops for your road trip in Salta, Argentina.
1. Cafayate
Photo: NiarKrad/Shutterstock
The first stop, and where the journey along Ruta 40 begins, is all about discovering the viticulture of northwest Argentina. However, before that there’s the small matter of arriving from Salta via the iridescent red-hued landscapes of the Quebrada de las Conchas (Canyon of the Shells). If you haven’t visited the Grand Canyon then this might just be the next best thing. Extraordinary rock walls shaped over millennia rise above a muddy river to create an otherworldly scene. It’s a three-hour straight drive through the canyon to Cafayate along Ruta 68, although you’ll want to pull over to capture the moment. Devil’s Throat, the Amphitheater, and the Toad are all worthwhile pit stops.
Photo: Daboost/Shutterstock
Cafayate itself is a busy colonial town in the Calchaquí Valley. It’s the heartland of Salta’s wine-making, as well. Dozens of bodegas, famous for their production of aromatic Torrontes white wines (and quintessential Argentine Malbecs), pepper the outskirts. Some, such as Bodega el Esteco and Bodega Vasija Secreta, are only a short stroll from the town center so you can park up and avoid any discussion about who’ll be the designated driver. You’ll probably want to stay the night here and can do so in style at the elegant winery-cum-hotel Patios de Cafayate.
2. San Carlos and Cachi
Photo: Lana Endermar/Shutterstock
From Cafayate, Ruta 40 meanders past vineyards and sleepy towns as it travels deep into the wild landscapes of the Calchaquí Valley. In about half an hour you’ll reach San Carlos, whose tree-shaded main square appears lost in time with its graceful arcades and white chapel. After another 30 minutes, the road climbs into the Quebrada de las Flechas (Canyon of the Arrows). With beige-colored cliffs rising up like arrowheads it’s easy to see how the canyon got its name. There are several rest stops and lookouts to get out and bask in the lunar-like setting.
Photo: Colomé/Facebook
If you’ve driven enough for the day, stay at the nearby Estancia Colome. It’s a winery and hotel where the stargazing is superb and there’s the chance to ride horseback over high-altitude plains. Otherwise, continue for just over two hours along the rocky, cacti-lined highway and across bridge-less rivers to Cachi. Maybe it’s the adobe homes, cobblestone plazas, and Spanish church, or perhaps the snowcapped Andes and clean air, but Cachi really has that jaw-dropping sensation. Pass by the Pio Pablo Diaz Archeological Museum to find hundreds of treasures excavated in the Calchaquí Valley. It’s on the main square, which has its fair share of bars and restaurants with outdoor seating.
3. Abra del Acay
Photo: Pedro Carrilho/Shutterstock
We aren’t saying that you should incessantly show off about your vacations, but bragging rights are part and parcel of traveling. A little over 60 miles from Cachi, the meandering highway becomes a wondrous section of chicanes and switchbacks upon reaching Abra del Acay. At approximately 16,000 feet above sea level, this is among the highest mountain passes on the planet (only those in the Himalayas surpass it). It’s an arduous and isolated drive with some sheer drop-offs, so you’ll want to take it slow. Those up for the challenge, though, will find that the panoramic mountain views, including the summit of the almost 20,000-feet-tall Nevado de Acay, are unprecedented. Fill up with gas and pick up water and food supplies at La Poma, because afterward it’s just the thrill of you and the open road.
Tip: Check the road conditions with locals before setting off; it can be impassable due to summer floods and winter snowfall. Also, register your departure at La Poma police station; they’ll come looking for you if you don’t register your arrival after crossing the pass.
4. San Antonio de los Cobres
Photo: buteo/Shutterstock
At the northern end of the mountain pass, the route drops down into the Puna — the local name for the upland plateau in the Andes foothills — and toward San Antonio de los Cobres. This mining town is the last notable settlement on Salta’s Ruta 40 and a good place to stock up before deciding on your next destination. While here, you can gain an insightful overview of life in the Puna at the small Museo Regional Andino.
Photo: Tren a las Nubes/Facebook
Should you be in the mood for more adventure then consider adding a trip on the Tren a los Nubes (Train to the Clouds) to the itinerary. Departing from the town center, the train trundles around the arid mountain sides of the Puna to the Viaduct Polvorilla. There’s a brief break to snap photos from 200 feet above a ravine before riding back to town.
Note: A bus service travels from Salta to San Antonio de los Cobres to link up with the train. Visiting villages and natural wonders en route, it’s a recommendable alternative if you’re a train fanatic and pressed for time.
5. Salinas Grandes Salt Flats
Photo: Cesar Girolimini/Shutterstock
To get more of that ethereal and away-from-it-all feeling, swap Ruta 40 for Ruta 51 and drive to the Salinas Grandes. This white salt desert covers 82 square miles on the border of the provinces of Salta and Jujuy and is one of Argentina’s seven natural wonders. The backdrop of the Puna highlands does a fine job in adding to the mysticism. Visiting the salt flats is a simple task. A road, which resembles more a low-lying bridge, crosses the northern part. Pull over and stretch your legs with a walk over a vast salty ocean. Budding photographers will have a blast creating disproportionate shots and mirror images.
From Salinas Grandes it’s a three- to four-hour drive back to Salta, which demonstrates how easy it is to get lost in the Argentine wilderness while being so relatively close to urbanization.
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Canada to require all air travelers to be fully vaccinated
Canada will soon require all air, train, and cruise ship passengers to be fully vaccinated before traveling.
This announcement comes just after the country reopened its borders to fully vaccinated US travelers without the need for quarantine.
A statement from the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat released on August 13, 2021, explains the new travel vaccination policy. All employees and passengers in the federal air, rail, and marine sectors will be required to be fully vaccinated “as soon as possible in the fall and no later than the end of October.”
“Canadians deserve to feel confident when traveling that the environment around them is safe,” said Canadian Transport Minister Omar Alghabra on Twitter. “We need to regain public confidence in travel.”
According to the Canadian Treasury Board, more than 71 percent of people in Canada are fully vaccinated, and more than 82 percent have had their first vaccination, but more than six million eligible people are still unvaccinated.
Air Canada responded to the announcement stating the vaccine policy is a “welcome step forward in the evolving measures to protect the health and safety of airline employees, customers, and all Canadians.”
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Here’s how you can get your vacation wardrobe from Rent the Runway
Want to be stylish on your next getaway and not lug a heavy suitcase? Well, now you don’t have to worry about packing as Rent the Runway (RTR), and TripAdvisor Plus have partnered up to offer a delivery service to send you clothes from the runway to your hotel room.
To score yourself some fashionable attire for your next getaway, you must sign up for a TripAdvisor Plus membership. The subscription regularly costs $99, but from now through December, you can receive $20 off your first year using code RTRPLUS, and you can also receive an exclusive 30 percent off any one-time rental.
Once you’ve booked a stay, you’ll receive an email with a promo code for RTR’s Closet Concierge. Then all you need to do is type in the zip code of your hotel and select an arrival date at least 48 hours before your arrival. RTR offers four- and eight-day outfit rentals.
RTR has styles from more than 700 brands. Currently, the website only stocks women’s and kid’s clothing and options for special events, office wear, and other occasions such as when you’re on vacation.
At checkout, use the code provided to you through email, make sure the shipping address is for your hotel, and inform where you’re staying that a package is on the way. When it’s time to return the clothing, place the items in the package they came in, switch the shipping labels, and return the items to a RTR drop-off location. It’s as easy as that. Your vacation wardrobe can be up-to-date and it won’t break the bank.
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August 16, 2021
The castles, palaces, and giant houses where the British royal family lives
The British royal family has a number of palaces, houses, and estates across the United Kingdom in its care. Some of these properties are used for weekend getaways, while others are country retreats for months at a time, and then there are the places that the royals officially call home for much of the year. From Queen Elizabeth II to Harry and Meghan, here’s where several members of the royal family live.
Queen Elizabeth II
Photo: I Wei Huang/Shutterstock
Buckingham Palace: Built in the early 1700s, the palace didn’t become the official residence of the British monarchy in London until 1837. Buckingham Palace is primarily a location for administrative duties, such as official events and meetings, but it’s also where Queen Elizabeth II lives for most of the year. According to Royal.uk, Buckingham Palace has 775 rooms, including 19 State rooms, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms.
Photo: Byunau Konstantin/Shutterstock
Windsor Castle: The original castle was built in the 11th century and founded by William the Conqueror to solidify Norman power after their invasion. Several monarchs throughout the following years rebuilt, remodeled, and renovated the main palace and other buildings within the walls. Windsor Castle is still used by other royals today, such as for weddings and events, but Queen Elizabeth sets up an official residence here between March and April. She’s also known to spend her private time on weekends here. Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, according to The Royal Collection Trust.
Photo: sloukam/Shutterstock
Balmoral Castle: Located in Scotland, Balmoral was bought in 1852 by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria. Since then, the 50,000-acre property has been a private holiday home for the royal family, and its halls have seen all members pass through — from Elizabeth herself down to William and Harry. It’s also where Charles brought Diana to meet his family for the first time.
Photo: Sandringham1870/Facebook
Sandringham Estate: Sandringham has a long history with the monarchy. It was bought in 1862 for Prince Edward and is currently used by Elizabeth as a private country home where she spends her winters. The estate is where both her father, George VI and grandfather, George V, passed away.
Prince Charles
Photo: The Royal Collection Trust
Clarence House: Clarence House was built in the late 1820s and has been home to several generations of members of the royal family, including the Queen Mother Elizabeth, Queen Elizabeth II, and Prince Philip. Currently, it’s the official London residence of Prince Charles and his second wife, Camilla.
Photo: Highgrove Gardens/Facebook
Highgrove House: Highgrove house was built between 1796 and 1798 and came into Prince Charles’ possession in 1980. When Charles arrived, he made a number of renovations to the place to make it a home away from home in the country. It was where he and his first wife, Diana, spent their time on weekends, but it’s now the country home for him and Camilla.
Prince William
Photo: Mistervla/Shutterstock
Kensington Palace: Built in the early 15th century, Kensington Palace didn’t become an official royal residence until 1689. It was where Queen Victoria was born and lived during her childhood, and now it’s the London residence of Prince William and Kate, and their kids George, Charlotte, and Louis.
Prince Harry
Photo: The Royal Household
Frogmore Cottage: Frogmore Cottage’s construction finished in 1684 and was leased out by Henry VIII. In 1792, Queen Charlotte bought the lease so that she and her family could have a country retreat. A few centuries later, in 2018, Prince Harry and Meghan had their wedding reception here and later moved in before the birth of their son Archie. The pair now live in California in the US, and reportedly opened their Windsor home to Princess Eugenie and her husband Jack while Eugenie was expecting her first child.
Princess Anne
Gatcombe Park: Queen Elizabeth purchased this late 18th-century country estate for her daughter in 1976, just six miles away from Highgrove House. Since then, it’s been the primary residence for Princess Anne and her family.
Prince Edward
Bagshot Park: Having been in the royal family since the beginning, the original building on this property was built in the 15th century and later demolished toward the end of the 17th century. The current building’s construction was completed in 1879 and used by various royals until it passed to Prince Edward and his wife Sophie in 1999 after their wedding.
Prince Andrew
Royal Lodge: The site that the lodge sits on goes back to the 15th century, and the property on it (known by various names throughout the years) passed through several occupants before landing in the hands of King George IV. A later royal had much of the site demolished except for a conservatory, which was also used by Queen Elizabeth II’s mother Elizabeth and King George VI as a country retreat. After Elizabeth’s passing in 2002, Prince Andrew moved into the lodge in 2004 with his ex-wife Sarah and daughters Beatrice and Eugenie.
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Why Route 66 makes for the best sports-focused road trip in America
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Route 66 is America’s most famous road. Some people take it for the history, others take it for the art, and many take it because Route 66 has an outsized reputation in a country in love with the great American road trip. What’s often left out of the conversation, however, is Route 66’s strong connection to another beloved American pastime: sports.
Ron Clements new book, A Sports Fan’s Guide to Route 66, puts athletics of all kinds front and center from the highway’s start in Chicago to its end in Santa Monica. There are NASCAR tracks up north, rodeos in the Southwest, and golf just about everywhere. And Clements doesn’t leave out the natural wonders, small towns, and quirky art that make Route 66 what it is today.
After reading the book, it’s hard to understand why sports don’t get the same amount of attention that’s lavished on other aspects of Route 66. The road is bookmarked by two of the most storied franchises in sports: the Chicago Bulls on one end and the Los Angeles Lakers on the other. Clements meticulously documents the in-between with just as much care. He notes the high schools and small colleges where athletes like Mickey Mantle, coaches like Rex Ryan, and many other famous figures in the world of sports got their start.
The book makes clear the argument that just like road trips today wouldn’t be the same without the history of Route 66, neither would sports without the many athletes who played along the same stretch.
Today, Route 66’s practical role is over. Five interstate highways — I-55, I-44, I-40, I-15, and I-10 — replaced Route 66, and it was officially decommissioned in 1985. Still, nostalgia and a long list of worthy stops drive people to this bastion of car culture. Using A Sports Fan’s Guide to Route 66 as a guide, you’ll find that the Mother Road is a bastion of sports culture, too.
The book covers every state along the route (Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California) in 300-plus pages featuring full-color photos and plenty of tips on where to stay, what to eat, and what to do. While it’s a pleasure to read through and find stats, historical notes, and cultural discoveries on each page, it is at heart a guide. The book is something to keep in the car for reference — a personalized handbook that can deliver more than what you could find with even the best of Google searches.
I caught up with Clements to learn more about the many miles he drove and the best stops he took while putting together the first sports book on Route 66.
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
Photo: Frank Romeo/Shutterstock
Big cities (especially at the start and stop) with pro sports teams seem like easy and predictable inclusions. What would you say is the biggest and most historic sports team along Route 66?
As much as it pains me to say as a Milwaukee Brewers fan, I would have to say the St. Louis Cardinals are the most historic pro sports team along Route 66. It’s the most successful National League franchise with 11 World Series championships and a slew of Hall of Famers. That’s no slight to the other pro sports teams in Chicago, St. Louis, Oklahoma City, or Los Angeles, but only the LA Lakers have had a similar history of success. But the Lakers began in Minneapolis and share an arena with two other teams. The Cardinals ARE St. Louis, which is maybe the best baseball city in the country.
What are your favorite small towns that made the cut, and what sports or sports culture connection makes them your favorite?
Pontiac, Illinois; and Tucumcari, New Mexico; are popular with Route 66 travelers because they both embrace the Route 66 culture. The signage is everywhere, and the towns’ museums are great. Both towns also have rich sports histories. Pontiac hosts the oldest holiday high school basketball tournament in the country, and Tucumcari has one of the nation’s best college rodeo programs. Both Pontiac and Tucumcari high schools also have a long history of sports success, so there’s a little of something for everyone in each. Seligman, Arizona, is also an endearing Route 66 town but doesn’t offer much in terms of sports because the high school’s heyday coincided with the height of Route 66.
There’s a great diversity of sports you included. Were there any that surprised you or particularly stood out?
I knew of a couple of rodeo arenas along Route 66, like in Cuba, Missouri, and Amarillo, Texas, but I didn’t realize how big rodeo is between Cuba and Williams, Arizona. And then there’s the aforementioned Tucumcari with its fall slate of rodeo, highlighted by the October National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) event at the Quay County Fairgrounds the same weekend as the Fossil Day Festival. Discovering the many rodeo arenas along the Mother Road was one of the more surprising things of the trip.
What was your research process like? How many miles did you go?
We did the entire route, from Chicago to Santa Monica, so we did about 2,500 miles and then some. We took two months to travel the entirety of Route 66 in the fall of 2019, and I attended several games, both as a fan and as a credentialed media member.
Photo: James Kirkikis/Shutterstock
The first sporting event was a Chicago Blackhawks game on September 25, and the last was a UCLA basketball game. The research on the professional teams and NCAA Division I universities was relatively easy because there is so much information out there. The smaller colleges and the high schools were a little more difficult, but it helped to speak with people and peruse the state high school athletic associations’ records. The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) is one of the best in terms of records being available online. A Sports Fan’s Guide to Route 66 is loaded with about 60 interviews, and those interviews not only add to the uniqueness of the book but definitely helped with the research for it.
It’s easy to get cliche about the power of sports to bring people together, but do you see any deeper truth to it after looking at the sports along Route 66?
Sports do bring people together, certainly, and that is definitely true at the high school level – especially in smaller towns.
One thing I wrote in the book and I’ve mentioned to people as I tell them about A Sports Fan’s Guide to Route 66 is that if they want to meet locals and learn more about the community through which they’re driving, they should attend a high school sporting event. These games have people in the stands who have lived in the same town for decades. There are septuagenarians and octogenarians whose kids and grandkids have long graduated and moved on from the school, but they still attend games because it’s part of the community fabric. That is something truly unique to small-town America.
Can you explain more about the many high school sports you cover in the book?
A Sports Fan’s Guide to Route 66 is the first-ever sports-related book about Route 66, and I wanted it to be as thorough and comprehensive as possible. Small towns are part of the Route 66 allure for some people. I have seen social media posts about people wanting to avoid the big cities as they travel down America’s Main Street, so I knew small towns were an endearing aspect of the route for many.
Photo: B. Franklin/Shutterstock
I grew up in a small city, and I love high school sports. When I began as a sports writer, I was covering high school athletics. The games are fun. The fans are into it because they’re the friends, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and siblings of the athletes. The United States stands alone as a nation that holds amateur athletics in such a high regard, and I didn’t want to leave that out of the book. Someone traveling from Germany or Japan might not understand why college and high school sports are so popular here, and that’s something I wanted to help explain.
What do you believe is the through line that connects the sports along Route 66 beyond the road itself?
Each city has its own personality in terms of sports, but every Los Angeles Dodgers fan should travel Route 66. Each level of Dodgers baseball can be found along Route 66 – Single A in Rancho Cucamonga, California, Double A in Tulsa, Triple A in Oklahoma City, and then the MLB team in Los Angeles. There are two other Double A teams that play in the same league as Tulsa, so fans could see the Drillers play in Springfield, Missouri, and Amarillo. They could also see the LA Dodgers play the Cardinals in St. Louis or the Cubs in Chicago.
Which state do you feel has the most to offer for sports along Route 66?
Because of the terminus cities of Chicago and Los Angeles, I’d probably have to go with Illinois and California. Each major pro sports league is represented in the Windy City and LA, but you also have horse tracks, auto tracks, NCAA Division I and II universities, dynastic high school programs, and many golf courses along Route 66 in each state.
Oklahoma competes with the much bigger cities and more population of California. Do you think that’s a result of how long the road goes through Oklahoma, or something about the state’s connection to sports overall?
I think Oklahoma stands out because Route 66 goes directly through the state’s two largest cities. That’s something you don’t see in the other states. You’ve got Chicago in Illinois, but Route 66 doesn’t go through Peoria. You’ve got St. Louis in Missouri, but not Kansas City. Amarillo is nowhere near the size of Dallas or Houston in Texas. Route 66 is hours north of Phoenix in Arizona. And then in California, it’s just Los Angeles and not the other Golden State metropolises. But in Oklahoma, Route 66 is part of the identities of Tulsa and Oklahoma City. Route 66 literally runs along the campus of the University of Tulsa and goes through downtown OKC. It doesn’t hurt that sports teams at every level in those two cities have been successful.
Keeping with the car theme, what were your favorite Route 66 racetracks that you came across and why?
I’m admittedly not a big auto racing fan, but I’d have to go with Chicagoland Speedway and Route 66 Raceway outside of Joliet. Speaking with the track president there and hearing the passion he has for the sports of stock car and drag racing, it was hard not to love the place. Unfortunately, 2020 had an adverse effect on the tracks’ schedule, but hopefully, brighter days are ahead.
Golf seems to be everywhere. Do you think that it’d be a worthy trip for a serious golfer to try and complete every course along Route 66?
I included golf courses for this very reason. Living full-time in an RV for the last three-and-a-half years, I have met countless people who have been on golf road trips. When I first started to notice golf courses near Route 66 in Illinois, I knew I had to mention them in A Sports Fan’s Guide to Route 66. Any serious golfer would have a blast traveling Route 66 and playing the many courses found along it.
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