Matador Network's Blog, page 603

These are the top 10 airports in the world for 2021

Skytrax has announced the ranking for the world’s top airports in 2021, and for the first time in nearly a decade, there’s a new airport claiming the number one spot. This year, Hamad International Airport in Qatar beat Singapore’s Changi Airport.

Qatar Airways also beat Singapore Airlines in the ranking of the world’s top airlines in the world for 2021, taking first place and pushing Singapore down to third,

The world’s top airport ranking was done via a survey during which airport customers from around the world voted. The survey took place from August 2020 through July 2021. There were 500 airports featured in the survey results, and over 100 customer nationalities participated.

According to Skytrax, the survey evaluates travelers’ experiences across airports for services like check-in, arrivals, transfers, shopping, security, and immigration. The survey also included a specific COVID-19 section.

The world’s top 10 airports according to Skytrax’s survey:

Hamad International Airport, QatarTokyo Haneda International Airport, JapanSingapore Changi Airport, SingaporeIncheon International Airport, South KoreaTokyo Narita Airport, JapanMunich Airport, GermanyZurich Airport, Switzerland Heathrow Airport, England Kansai International Airport, JapanHong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong

The first US airport to make it on the list of the world’s top 100 airports is Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport at #25. Vancouver International Airport ranks at #24, making it the top airport in North America.

For the full list of this year’s winners and other things like the world’s best airport staff, the world’s cleanest airport, or the world’s best airport security, visit Skytrax’s website.

More like thisNewsThe 10 most expensive airport parking lots in the US

The post These are the top 10 airports in the world for 2021 appeared first on Matador Network.

The US ranks second in the world for skinny dipping

Skinny dipping might sound like great fun for some and uninteresting — or entirely inappropriate — to others. But if you’re comfortable being in the buff, it could be helpful to know where you can have your buns out as summer rages on. Outdoor recreation site Outforia conducted a study to determine which countries around the world have the best skinny dipping spots and each country’s comfort level with skinny dipping. The United States came in second in the global rankings, and the study was ripe with other interesting findings.

Outforia’s study only looked at countries where skinny dipping is at least partially legal. The countries were judged in four categories out of 10: number of nudist beaches, number of naturist campsites, average annual temperature, and average water temperature. The final ranking is decided on the average between all four categories.

The number one spot for letting it all hang out was France, with a final score of 7.04. The country has over 600 places where it’s totally acceptable to walk around nude, including Village Naturiste in Cap d’Age, where clothing is not required at all. The average temperature year-round is 51.3 degrees Fahrenheit, while the water temperature averages 60.5.

It may or may not surprise you that the US comes in second with a final score of 6.95, offering 295 beaches, and comes in first for having 253 naturist campsites. The average annual temperature is a bit frosty here at 47.4 degrees but the water temperature averages 62.4.

Spain takes third place in the top three with a score of 6.52. It has the most nude beaches in the world at 422 but less than 100 naturist campsites. The right to be nude is very legal, which also helped the country’s rank. It’s even written in the country’s constitution. The temperature averages at 55.9 degrees and the water is pretty warm at 64.2.

Thailand was shouted out for having the warmest temperature and water for people to swim in, reaching 79.3 degrees with a water temperature of 84.3. Great vacation spots like the Bahamas, St. Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda, and the Maldives might have great beaches but don’t expect to be going topless on them anytime soon.

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

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Watch: There’s an underwater elevator in the Baltic Sea and anyone can ride it

If you’re curious to know what goes on under the surface of the ocean, you could scuba dive, but that just might not be as cool as an underwater elevator. On the northeast coast of Germany, on the Baltic Sea, there are four underwater elevators (also called underwater gondolas or Tauchgondel in German) that are meant to take tourists on the ride of a lifetime.

Built in 2009, these unique-looking, 50-ton underwater elevators take visitors below the surface of the Baltic Sea. YouTuber Tom Scott went for a ride and met with Rüdiger Zitz, one of the crew members in charge of the underwater elevators.

The Tauchgondel works like an elevator. You climb in, and after the press of a few buttons, it sinks to the bottom of the ocean floor. The sound of the waves engulfs the room and the light turns a shade of green — the same color as the water right outside. The water in the Baltic Sea isn’t very clear so don’t expect to see whales and fish from the window, but it’s still fun to take a peek at what goes on under the surface of the ocean.

Scott asks Zitz about the safety precautions that must be taken to ensure passengers won’t get stuck or if there’s a leak anywhere. He explains that the gondola uses two motors, and by releasing the holding brake, the gondola will quickly shoot back up to the surface. If that doesn’t work, there are two emergency exits so passengers can end up back on the pier. Also, there’s fresh air ventilation coming at all times in the underwater elevator (it’s not pressurized like in a submarine) and the windows are 2.3-inches thick and made of several layers of safety glass.

Eventually, you might see the Tauchgondel pop up in places where the water is a bit clearer, like the Caribbean, Greece, or even the Maldives, but Zitz said that each one would have to be one-of-a-kind to accommodate the different locations.

More like thisNewsTikToker found mysterious underwater structures on Google Earth. Here’s what the place really is.

The post Watch: There’s an underwater elevator in the Baltic Sea and anyone can ride it appeared first on Matador Network.

The ultimate week in Guatemala’s Lake Atitlán, from sunrise hikes and cliff jumping to cacao tasting

Guatemala is known for its rich indigenous culture, scenic mountainous countryside, and its many volcanoes (37 exactly, the most of any Central American country) and you can experience all that makes the nation famous in one place: Lake Atitlán. The volcanic lake is situated in the Guatemalan Highlands among the Sierra Madre Mountain Range and surrounded by three volcanoes: San Pedro, Atitlán, and Tomlimán. Bright blue waters lap onto the shores of traditional Mayan villages that line the lake. Although remote and rural, Lake Atitlán packs a punch for travelers eager to tackle sunrise hikes, scoop up Mayan textiles, immerse in Guatemalan culture, and spend time in nature.

Before you go, it’s good to get your bearings with the lakeside villages so you can choose the area that’s best for you to stay. San Pedro La Laguna is the liveliest village with the largest number of backpackers, bars, and hostels; San Marcos La Laguna is the hippie haven stacked with yoga studios, holistic centers, and wellness workshops; San Juan La Laguna is a cultural hub that blends traditional Mayan life with enough restaurants, shops, and tour agencies to keep travelers in the loop; and Panajachel is the bustling market hub that welcomes the daily influx of travelers and local tourists.

Don’t worry too much if you’re unsure of where to stay — boats run constantly between all the villages, making travel between all the lakeside communities very easy. Choose your home base and gear up for a week of adventure, culture, and never-ending scenery in Guatemala’s Lake Atitlán.

Day one – Cliff jumping

Photo: Fiona Mokry and Matyas Rehak/Shutterstock

From wherever you chose to stay, hop a boat over to San Marcos to kick off your day in Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve. The protected hilly expanse is only a 10-minute walk from the San Marcos’ pier and commands a small entrance fee of 15 Quetzales (about 2 USD). Once inside, walk the pebbly paths along the water to find uninterrupted views of the surrounding volcanoes. Trek upward to the Mayan altar, a circular mound of stones upon which candles are burned, situated at the highest point in the preserve. Carry on deeper into the reserve to a high wooden platform suspended roughly 50 feet above the lake. If you dare, take a running start and launch off the platform into the crystal-clear water below. You’ll probably have some fellow travelers sitting on the nearby rocks, cheering you on and watching the show. After you overcome your first-jump jitters, you’ll be lining up to do it again.

Part of Cerro Tzankujil’s appeal is its lack of development and infrastructure. After you get your adrenaline fix, find a peaceful spot to take in the endless mountain views while you sprawl out on a sunbaked rock.

Day two – Sunrise hike up Indian Nose

Photo: Fiona Mokry

Catch the sunrise from Indian Nose (La Nariz del Indio), sometimes referred to as Mayan Face (El Rostro Maya), a rocky perch with face-like characteristics and the highest point in Lake Atitlán. While the 3:00 AM wake-up call is rough, you won’t regret it once you reach the lookout point. Since the majority of this excursion takes place in the dark, it’s advised that you book this trip through one of the travel agencies in any of the villages. They provide transportation to the trailhead in Santa Clara and a local guide to lead the way up the cliffs. While Guatemala is a relatively safe country to visit, petty theft does occur sometimes and tourists are warned against walking alone between the villages — especially at night.

The hike to Indian Nose takes between 30 and 45 minutes. You’ll likely hear and see other groups of people as you get closer to the top. After you summit, find the perfect vantage point along the cliff edge or settle into a spot on the simple, two-story wooden platform. Coffee and pastries are passed around by the local guides while everyone waits patiently for the sun to peak over the horizon. Lake Atitlán becomes more and more visible as the sun spills over the lake, and the three iconic volcanoes stand in stark contrast against the pale sky. Daylight finally breaks and reveals perfect panoramas of the striking landscape and many of the lakeside villages. There’s no better way to start the day.

Day three – Co-op hop

Photo: Fiona Mokry

Lake Atitlán is the center for women weaving co-ops and coffee co-ops. Don’t pass up the chance to visit, take a free tour, and watch demonstrations of how the products are cultivated.

Traditional textiles are sold all over Guatemala, and Lake Atitlán is the source that supplies many of the markets and shops throughout the country. Swing by Atitlán Women Weavers in San Pedro and admire all the handmade scarves, blankets, bags, and clothing. Watch as the weavers perform a free, 20-minute demonstration of how they harvest the cotton, prepare the thread, naturally dye it with color derived from plants and tree bark, and use a backstrap loom to weave beautiful, sustainable textiles. After a morning in San Pedro, take a 10-minute boat ride to San Juan (costing roughly $2) to visit another weaving co-op, Casa Flor Ixcaco. Here you’ll find a different selection of handwoven goods and meet some of the talented weavers.

Continue the co-op hop and check out La Voz Coffee Co-op (Cooperativa la Voz que Clama en el Desierto), also in San Juan. Established by 20 farmers in 1977, the coffee farm and production center sits on the outskirts of the village. Tour the co-op, see how the coffee plants are organically-grown and harvested, and learn about the farmers’ mission to uphold sustainable production. End the tour with a visit to the on-site café for a cup of La Voz’s finest brew.

Day four – Day trip to Chichicastenango Market

Photo: Laura G.Robe/Shutterstock

Despite its location in a small, rural town, the Chichicastenango Market (also known as “Chichi Market”) is one of the biggest in Central America. It’s a two-hour drive from Lake Atitlán, but it’s worth the trip to get your hands on the country’s biggest selection of high-quality handicrafts, textiles, wood carvings, pottery, and jewelry. Chichicastenango has been a trade center for hundreds of years, eventually morphing into a melting pot of vendors from different ethnic groups.

Every Thursday and Sunday hundreds of vendors set up shop around the town’s central plaza and put on a truly impressive display. It’s the perfect place to shop for some souvenirs. Locals also frequent the market to pick up fresh produce, animal products, household necessities, and toys, so take the time to wander around and observe the daily life and local customs in rural Guatemala. Cap the day with a visit to Santo Tomás, the 16th century church in the center of the plaza and a revered Mayan heritage site still used today.

Day five – Kayak Lake Atitlán

Photo: Simon Dannhauer/Shutterstock

You can admire the beauty of Lake Atitlán from a variety of places (restaurant decks, waterfront bars, boat dock), but nothing beats paddling out on the water and admiring a 360-degrees view of the volcanoes, rolling green hills, and sparkling blue water. Kayak rentals are available in most of the villages, and Mayan Dynasty Tours in San Juan and Maya Travel in San Pedro both offer guided tours. If you find yourself in San Marcos, you can take advantage of the kayak rentals at the entrance of Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve. Keep your eyes peeled for local fishermen casting their nets and hauling in the day’s catch.

Day six – Spa Day

Photo: The Yoga Forest

A number of yogi expats and holistic practitioners have transformed San Marcos la Laguna into some sort of spiritual center, and there’s no better place to relax. Start the day with a waterfront massage at East West Center, an unassuming holistic spa in a peaceful nook off San Marcos’ main drag. Check out their health store on your way out, stocked with all kinds of all-natural, oil-infused creams.

In the afternoon, wander up to The Yoga Forest, a premier retreat center perched high above San Marcos with prime views of Lake Atitlán. The 25-minute trek is worth it for the views alone, but a guided meditation session followed by a Vinyasa or Restorative Yin Flow class is the cherry on top. Further the experience with a traditional ceremony; discover the power of Ceremonial Cacao (AKA “The Food of the Gods”), or cleanse your body and soul with a Temazcal Ceremony, an ancient Mayan steam bath. The Yoga Forest also offers climbing courses and SUP expeditions around the lake if yoga and meditation aren’t your thing.

Day seven – Treat your tastebuds and indulge in culture

Photo: Fiona Mokry

Spend some quality time in San Juan on your last day. It’s one of the smaller and less-frequented villages around the lake, but the authentic food and cultural activities can fill a whole day. First, fill your belly at Restaurante Xe Kuku’ Aab’aj, an humble eatery with a rooftop deck overlooking the water. They serve the best ceviche and chicken pepián in Lake Atitlán — at local prices. After a savory meal, satisfy your sweet tooth and learn the significance of cacao in Mayan culture at Licor Marrón Chocolate. Watch artisans transform cacao into chocolate (or reserve a spot for the hands-on workshop and make your own) and then sample a traditional hot chocolate, the preferred method of chocolate consumption in Guatemala. Thought to have descended from the gods, cacao is a popular and highly regarded food throughout the country. It comes in many forms, from steamy liquid to solid spiced bars. After the cacao lesson, pick up some bars of homemade chocolate spiked with chili, cardamom, and ginger and a few ‘cacao bombs’ — small cubes of pressed cacao — to recreate your own hot chocolate at home just by adding hot milk.

The art of food is just one of San Juan’s attractions. Residents also showcase their talents with depictions of Mayan history and ancestral traditions through murals and paintings. With the spare time you have left, wander around San Juan and admire the wall murals, or pop into a few of the art galleries scattered throughout the village. Learn more about indigenous Tz’utujil beliefs and how it translates into art by taking a workshop from any one of the studios. Before you leave San Juan, end the day with a quick 15-minute jaunt up to El Cerro de la Cruz — the highest point overlooking San Juan — to take in one last lake landscape before your trip comes to a close.

More like thisWhere to StayThese dreamy Lake Atitlan Airbnbs have epic views of the volcanoes

The post The ultimate week in Guatemala’s Lake Atitlán, from sunrise hikes and cliff jumping to cacao tasting appeared first on Matador Network.

The ultimate week in Guatémala’s Lake Atitlán, from sunrise hikes and cliff jumping to cacao tasting

Guatémala is known for its rich indigenous culture, scenic mountainous countryside, and its many volcanoes (37 exactly, the most of any Central American country) and you can experience all that makes the nation famous in one place: Lake Atitlán. The volcanic lake is situated in the Guatémalan Highlands among the Sierra Madre Mountain Range and surrounded by three volcanoes: San Pedro, Atitlán, and Tomlimán. Bright blue waters lap onto the shores of traditional Mayan villages that line the lake. Although remote and rural, Lake Atitlán packs a punch for travelers eager to tackle sunrise hikes, scoop up Mayan textiles, immerse in Guatémalan culture, and spend time in nature.

Before you go, it’s good to get your bearings with the lakeside villages so you can choose the area that’s best for you to stay. San Pedro La Laguna is the liveliest village with the largest number of backpackers, bars, and hostels; San Marcos La Laguna is the hippie haven stacked with yoga studios, holistic centers, and wellness workshops; San Juan La Laguna is a cultural hub that blends traditional Mayan life with enough restaurants, shops, and tour agencies to keep travelers in the loop; and Panajachel is the bustling market hub that welcomes the daily influx of travelers and local tourists.

Don’t worry too much if you’re unsure of where to stay — boats run constantly between all the villages, making travel between all the lakeside communities very easy. Choose your home base and gear up for a week of adventure, culture, and never-ending scenery in Guatémala’s Lake Atitlán.

Day one – Cliff jumping

Photo: Fiona Mokry and Matyas Rehak/Shutterstock

From wherever you chose to stay, hop a boat over to San Marcos to kick off your day in Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve. The protected hilly expanse is only a 10-minute walk from the San Marcos’ pier and commands a small entrance fee of 15 Quetzales (about 2 USD). Once inside, walk the pebbly paths along the water to find uninterrupted views of the surrounding volcanoes. Trek upward to the Mayan altar, a circular mound of stones upon which candles are burned, situated at the highest point in the preserve. Carry on deeper into the reserve to a high wooden platform suspended roughly 50 feet above the lake. If you dare, take a running start and launch off the platform into the crystal-clear water below. You’ll probably have some fellow travelers sitting on the nearby rocks, cheering you on and watching the show. After you overcome your first-jump jitters, you’ll be lining up to do it again.

Part of Cerro Tzankujil’s appeal is its lack of development and infrastructure. After you get your adrenaline fix, find a peaceful spot to take in the endless mountain views while you sprawl out on a sunbaked rock.

Day two – Sunrise hike up Indian Nose

Photo: Fiona Mokry

Catch the sunrise from Indian Nose (La Nariz del Indio), sometimes referred to as Mayan Face (El Rostro Maya), a rocky perch with face-like characteristics and the highest point in Lake Atitlán. While the 3:00 AM wake-up call is rough, you won’t regret it once you reach the lookout point. Since the majority of this excursion takes place in the dark, it’s advised that you book this trip through one of the travel agencies in any of the villages. They provide transportation to the trailhead in Santa Clara and a local guide to lead the way up the cliffs. While Guatémala is a relatively safe country to visit, petty theft does occur sometimes and tourists are warned against walking alone between the villages — especially at night.

The hike to Indian Nose takes between 30 and 45 minutes. You’ll likely hear and see other groups of people as you get closer to the top. After you summit, find the perfect vantage point along the cliff edge or settle into a spot on the simple, two-story wooden platform. Coffee and pastries are passed around by the local guides while everyone waits patiently for the sun to peak over the horizon. Lake Atitlán becomes more and more visible as the sun spills over the lake, and the three iconic volcanoes stand in stark contrast against the pale sky. Daylight finally breaks and reveals perfect panoramas of the striking landscape and many of the lakeside villages. There’s no better way to start the day.

Day three – Co-op hop

Photo: Fiona Mokry

Lake Atitlán is the center for women weaving co-ops and coffee co-ops. Don’t pass up the chance to visit, take a free tour, and watch demonstrations of how the products are cultivated.

Traditional textiles are sold all over Guatémala, and Lake Atitlán is the source that supplies many of the markets and shops throughout the country. Swing by Atitlán Women Weavers in San Pedro and admire all the handmade scarves, blankets, bags, and clothing. Watch as the weavers perform a free, 20-minute demonstration of how they harvest the cotton, prepare the thread, naturally dye it with color derived from plants and tree bark, and use a backstrap loom to weave beautiful, sustainable textiles. After a morning in San Pedro, take a 10-minute boat ride to San Juan (costing roughly $2) to visit another weaving co-op, Casa Flor Ixcaco. Here you’ll find a different selection of handwoven goods and meet some of the talented weavers.

Continue the co-op hop and check out La Voz Coffee Co-op (Cooperativa la Voz que Clama en el Desierto), also in San Juan. Established by 20 farmers in 1977, the coffee farm and production center sits on the outskirts of the village. Tour the co-op, see how the coffee plants are organically-grown and harvested, and learn about the farmers’ mission to uphold sustainable production. End the tour with a visit to the on-site café for a cup of La Voz’s finest brew.

Day four – Day trip to Chichicastenango Market

Photo: Laura G.Robe/Shutterstock

Despite its location in a small, rural town, the Chichicastenango Market (also known as “Chichi Market”) is one of the biggest in Central America. It’s a two-hour drive from Lake Atitlán, but it’s worth the trip to get your hands on the country’s biggest selection of high-quality handicrafts, textiles, wood carvings, pottery, and jewelry. Chichicastenango has been a trade center for hundreds of years, eventually morphing into a melting pot of vendors from different ethnic groups.

Every Thursday and Sunday hundreds of vendors set up shop around the town’s central plaza and put on a truly impressive display. It’s the perfect place to shop for some souvenirs. Locals also frequent the market to pick up fresh produce, animal products, household necessities, and toys, so take the time to wander around and observe the daily life and local customs in rural Guatémala. Cap the day with a visit to Santo Tomás, the 16th century church in the center of the plaza and a revered Mayan heritage site still used today.

Day five – Kayak Lake Atitlán

Photo: Simon Dannhauer/Shutterstock

You can admire the beauty of Lake Atitlán from a variety of places (restaurant decks, waterfront bars, boat dock), but nothing beats paddling out on the water and admiring a 360-degrees view of the volcanoes, rolling green hills, and sparkling blue water. Kayak rentals are available in most of the villages, and Mayan Dynasty Tours in San Juan and Maya Travel in San Pedro both offer guided tours. If you find yourself in San Marcos, you can take advantage of the kayak rentals at the entrance of Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve. Keep your eyes peeled for local fishermen casting their nets and hauling in the day’s catch.

Day six – Spa Day

Photo: The Yoga Forest

A number of yogi expats and holistic practitioners have transformed San Marcos la Laguna into some sort of spiritual center, and there’s no better place to relax. Start the day with a waterfront massage at East West Center, an unassuming holistic spa in a peaceful nook off San Marcos’ main drag. Check out their health store on your way out, stocked with all kinds of all-natural, oil-infused creams.

In the afternoon, wander up to The Yoga Forest, a premier retreat center perched high above San Marcos with prime views of Lake Atitlán. The 25-minute trek is worth it for the views alone, but a guided meditation session followed by a Vinyasa or Restorative Yin Flow class is the cherry on top. Further the experience with a traditional ceremony; discover the power of Ceremonial Cacao (AKA “The Food of the Gods”), or cleanse your body and soul with a Temazcal Ceremony, an ancient Mayan steam bath. The Yoga Forest also offers climbing courses and SUP expeditions around the lake if yoga and meditation aren’t your thing.

Day seven – Treat your tastebuds and indulge in culture

Photo: Fiona Mokry

Spend some quality time in San Juan on your last day. It’s one of the smaller and less-frequented villages around the lake, but the authentic food and cultural activities can fill a whole day. First, fill your belly at Restaurante Xe Kuku’ Aab’aj, an humble eatery with a rooftop deck overlooking the water. They serve the best ceviche and chicken pepián in Lake Atitlán — at local prices. After a savory meal, satisfy your sweet tooth and learn the significance of cacao in Mayan culture at Licor Marrón Chocolate. Watch artisans transform cacao into chocolate (or reserve a spot for the hands-on workshop and make your own) and then sample a traditional hot chocolate, the preferred method of chocolate consumption in Guatémala. Thought to have descended from the gods, cacao is a popular and highly regarded food throughout the country. It comes in many forms, from steamy liquid to solid spiced bars. After the cacao lesson, pick up some bars of homemade chocolate spiked with chili, cardamom, and ginger and a few ‘cacao bombs’ — small cubes of pressed cacao — to recreate your own hot chocolate at home just by adding hot milk.

The art of food is just one of San Juan’s attractions. Residents also showcase their talents with depictions of Mayan history and ancestral traditions through murals and paintings. With the spare time you have left, wander around San Juan and admire the wall murals, or pop into a few of the art galleries scattered throughout the village. Learn more about indigenous Tz’utujil beliefs and how it translates into art by taking a workshop from any one of the studios. Before you leave San Juan, end the day with a quick 15-minute jaunt up to El Cerro de la Cruz — the highest point overlooking San Juan — to take in one last lake landscape before your trip comes to a close.

More like thisWhere to StayThese dreamy Lake Atitlan Airbnbs have epic views of the volcanoes

The post The ultimate week in Guatémala’s Lake Atitlán, from sunrise hikes and cliff jumping to cacao tasting appeared first on Matador Network.

Experience the best of Vancouver with these great hotel deals in the heart of the city

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.

With Canada opening to US travelers, it’s time to plan that trip to Vancouver that you’ve been talking about for the past 18 months. To help you in your endeavour, we found three incredible Vancouver hotel deals to make your stay in Canada’s coolest city more affordable.

Stroll Vancouver’s most stunning park from the Rosellen Suites Stanley Park Hotel

Photo: Rosellen Suites at Stanley Park/Facebook

Strolling the shoreline of northern Vancouver’s Stanley Park is the perfect introduction to British Columbia. The park itself embodies the deep shades of green that the Pacific Northwest is known for. You can swim at Second Beach or Third Beach, paddling the water of English Bay in the middle of this stunning scenery. Even simply strolling or biking the path that separates the hilled park from the water is an experience in itself, particularly if you stop along the way for a pint and a snack at Stanley Park Brewing.

This Travelzoo deal tucks you in at the Rosellen Suites Stanley Park Hotel directly adjacent to the park for just $100. That’s 50 percent off the hotel’s normal rate and includes free parking and a $20 breakfast credit at The Basic, the hotel’s onsite restaurant. Suites at the hotel come with kitchens, lightning-fast WiFi, plus, you’ll be surrounded by the charms of Vancouver’s West End, home to some of the city’s best dining and nightlife.

Spending a few nights at the Rosellen is the best way to score a “win” on a trip to Vancouver this fall. Cancel and get your money back if you decide not to travel.

Price: $100 per night, plus free parking and breakfast

Book Now

Experience Vancouver’s hippest neighborhood from the Victorian Hotel

Photo: The Victorian Hotel

Should you wish to stay in a more central location, we recommend one of the Vancouver hotel deals from the Victorian Hotel, which has rates as low as $128 on Expedia right now. The hotel, Victorian in style as its name suggests, is among Vancouver’s most comfortable boutique hotels. Exposed brick walls and hardwood floors give the rooms a historic ambiance, yet the experience is exquisitely modern and luxurious, particularly for this price point. Dedicated work desks offer views out over the surrounding Gastown neighborhood.

You’ll be a quick walk to the Queen Elizabeth Theatre and Rogers Arena, as well as the acclaimed Canada Place convention center. But the real win is that you’re in Gastown, Vancouver’s hippest neighborhood. Regardless of your reason for being in town — be it a conference, a hockey game, or just for fun, a stay at the Victorian Hotel gives you prime access to an evening of strolling Cordova Street with stops for a pint at Steamworks Brewpub and a patio meal at La Casita or The Cambie. You’ll hear the whistle of the famous Gastown Steam Clock, and will return to a hotel room that’s as classy as you’ll feel when walking through the front door.

Price: From $128

Book Now

Position yourself for easy transport by bookending your trip at the Fairmont Vancouver Airport

Photo: Fairmont Vancouver Airport

Gone are the days when airport hotels were drab, boring, and located in cookie-cutter clusters that ached from the stresses of overworked business travelers. The Fairmont Vancouver Airport is everything an airport hotel should be. It’s located in-terminal and rooms have views out onto the tarmac, where you can play the fun game of identifying planes based on the provided plane identification card. Rooms are done in the high-class style that Fairmont hotels are known for. The rooms are also very quiet. Amenities — including a pool and fitness center — are plenty. Thread counts are high. There’s nothing not to love.

Additionally, should you have a late-night or early morning flight, the hotel can have food prepared for you to either eat in-room or grab and go on your way out the door to the security checkpoint. With all the current fluctuation with flight schedules, you can at least rest easy here knowing that getting to your gate on time is a non-issue.

Price: From $235

Book Now

More like thisWhere to StayThe best Airbnbs in Vancouver, from a skyhigh loft to a beachside cabin

The post Experience the best of Vancouver with these great hotel deals in the heart of the city appeared first on Matador Network.

A Colombian boxing legend now dishes fish and aphrodisiacs at his iconic Cartagena restaurant

Eating well is half the secret to a long, happy, and healthy life for Bonifacio Ávila Berrío, known in Cartagena, Colombia, as simply “El Bony.” The other half is staying as physically fit as a fiddle.

“I get up with the sun and come into the beach from my barrio to train every day,” Berrío tells me one weekday afternoon on the patio of his restaurant, Kiosko El Bony, which sits on the sand of Bocagrande Beach in front of Cartagena’s Hotel Caribe. At 72 years old, this former Colombian world championship boxer looks as nimble as many people in their 20s and 30s, and his speech is peppered with jokes and puns that show his mind is in top shape as well.

“When I was about 28 years old, a friend of mine said to me, ‘Right now it’s all good, but once you pass 38 years old, being a boxer is not really going to work anymore!’” Berrío says as he explains why a boxing champion at the height of his career decided to open a seafood restaurant well before he retired.

Now nearly four decades old, the restaurant is a true Cartagena icon, and one of the most highly recommended places to eat in the city. That’s no small feat with Cartagena being known as a food capital of Latin America. Visitors leave rave reviews for Kiosky el Bony and the locals swear by the potency of his “aphrodisiac” seafood cazuelas (stews).

Photo: Ocean Malandra

“The cazuela aphrodisiaco is very strong,” Berrío explains. “It’s full of nutrients like phosphorus that give you energy and stamina. A lot of people come here just for that. They ask for the cazuela aphrodisiaco and then they leave ready to rumble.”

Bursting with shrimp, mussels, clams, and crab, the cazuela is also infused with herbs and spices that Berrío claims is the “authentic” way to do this Caribbean coast specialty, unlike the watered-down versions you get at most of the tourist-oriented restaurants in town. For Berrío, eating power-packed food like this was one of the keys to his success as a boxer, a career that he began in Cartagena in the early 1970s.

Born in Colombia’s Caribbean department of Sucre, which lies just south of Cartagena, Berrío knew he wanted to be a boxer since he was a little kid. He came to Cartagena to learn from “El Chico de Hierro” (The Iron Kid), who was a famous boxing trainer that took the young Berrío under his wing. Berrío survived by selling mangos on the beach by day and fishing under the Manga bridge by night, and in between, he quickly became a local boxing legend. Locals say that one of the ways he trained is by chasing and catching iguanas, much like how Rocky Balboa trained by chasing chickens in the Hollywood movie.

Photo: Ocean Malandra

Berrío’s big break came when Puerto Rican boxing legend Nelson Lasalle came to Cartagena, and the two squared off in front of a packed crowd in Cartagena’s historic bullfighting ring Plaza de Toros. Berrío knocked Lasalle out cold in the sixth round. The victory changed his life forever.

“Not long after that fight, I went to Germany to box in the Olympics,” Berrío recalls. “And later I went to England, to South Africa, and to Canada.” All in all, Bony fought 34 matches as the middle-weight champion of Colombia. He retired from boxing in 1978 to his beachfront restaurant, where you’ll still find him overseeing operations seven days a week.

Photo: Ocean Malandra

“I had worked a lot in my younger years, including right here on this beach,” Berrío says, gesturing to the golden sands and packed chairs of the Bocagrande beach. The ancient domes and spires of Cartagena’s Old City lie shimmering in the distance across the water.. “So I was happy and content to come back to the beach.”

No stranger to the sea himself, Berrío used to have his own team of a half dozen fishermen that supplied the restaurant with freshly caught fare every day. But nowadays, he says it’s easier to just hit the massive Bazurto market in the morning, where local boats show up after hours of pre-dawn fishing with nets bursting full of local species like pargo rojo (red snapper), lebranche (mullet) and sierra (swordfish).

It’s perhaps this dedication to fresh and healthy ingredients — equal to his dedication to boxing that catapulted him from the streets of Cartagena to national champ, that is behind Berrío’s success as a restaurateur. There’s nothing fancy about Kiosko el Bony. In fact, it looks like something out of the Jersey Shore with its Formica tables and simple chairs. But once the food comes steaming out of the kitchen, that’s where everyone’s attention goes.

Photo: Ocean Malandra

Even on this weekday afternoon, the place is packed both inside and outside, both in the dining room and out on the patio. Waiters and cooks rush around, many of them Berrío’s family members, and all of them with a similar wry sense of humor that attempts to turn everything into an innocent, but often pertinent, joke.

“Those who don’t come to my restaurant,” Berrío says laughing, “well, to tell the truth, it’s like they never really came to Cartagena.”

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Planning a trip to Disney? Here’s a quick guide to each park’s COVID-19 protocol.

The happiest place on earth has made a few changes to its Disney magic since the start of the pandemic. At the start of the pandemic, all six parks around the world — Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, FL, Disneyland Resort in California, Disneyland Paris, Shanghai Disney Resort, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Tokyo Disney Resort — closed their park doors to prevent the virus’ spread, but they’ve since opened with varying restrictions. Here are some reminders when planning your trip to one of these parks.

It’s important to keep in mind that each park has different guidelines, and these rules may change rapidly. We will continue to update this post, but remember to always follow up with each park’s website for details.

All parks encourage guests to be vaccinated. Every park has sanitizing sections and have increased the frequency of cleaning. Additionally, parks have the right to escort anyone out if they don’t comply with COVID-19 protocols.

Walt Disney World Resort – Orlando, FL

Photo: Walt Disney World/Facebook

Face coverings and screenings: Regardless of your vaccination status, masks are required indoors for all guests ages two and older. This includes upon entry throughout Disney attractions, buses, monorails, and the Disney Skyliner. Masks may only be removed for eating or drinking.Park reservations: To be able to enter parks guests must book same-day park and date reservations.Attraction availability: Some restaurants on the property are temporarily closed. Other attractions such as shows and parades may have limited availability or be closed.FASTPASS, MaxPass, Single Rider, and Magic Hours: FASTPASS services are currently unavailable.Disneyland Resort – Anaheim, CA

Photo: Disneyland/Facebook

Face coverings and screenings: Regardless of your vaccination status, masks are required indoors for all guests ages two and older. This includes upon entery throughout Disney attractions like buses and shuttles. Masks may only be removed for eating or drinking.Park reservations: All guests must book reservations before entering the parks.Attraction availability: Attractions like parades and nighttime spectaculars will return at a later date. Meet and greets are not currently available.FASTPASS, MaxPass, Single Rider, and Magic Hours: Magic Hours, FASTPASS, and MaxPass are temporarily unavailable.Disneyland Paris – Cheesy, France

Photo: Disneyland Paris/Facebook

Face coverings and screenings: All guests ages six and older are required to wear masks indoors and present a Health Pass to enter the park. Masks may only be removed for eating or drinking.Park reservations: Operating as normal, but guests are urged to register using their online registration platform to ensure entry.Attraction availability: Meet and greets, shows, parades, and the traditional character dining experience are temporarily unavailable.FASTPASS, MaxPass, Single Rider, and Magic Hours: The FASTPASS and Single Rider services are temporarily unavailable.Shanghai Disney Resort – Shanghai, China

Photo: WDW News Today/Facebook

Face coverings and screenings: Guest must present the Shanghai Disneyland Reservation QR Code that’s valid during their stay. Guests will also undergo a temperature screening and must register for a health QR code prior to arrival. This QR code will be presented upon entering any location on the resort. Only guests with a green QR code will be able to enter the resort. Face coverings must be worn at all times indoors and throughout Disney attractions, except when eating or drinking.Park reservations: Operating as normal. The reservation system will change on August 24.Attraction availability: All attractions are operating as normal.FASTPASS, MaxPass, Single Rider, and Magic Hours: The FASTPASS service is operating as normal.Hong Kong Disneyland – Lantau Island, Hong Kong

Photo: Hong Kong Disneyland/Facebook

Face coverings and screenings: Guests will undergo temperature screenings and must make a health declaration online. Guests will also need to register with the LeaveHomeSafe app to obtain a QR code for entry anywhere on the resort and parks. Masks are required, but may be removed for eating or drinking.Park reservations: To enter parks, guests must book same-day park reservations.Attraction availability: Capacity control is being enforced in queues, restaurants, and stores.FASTPASS, MaxPass, Single Rider, and Magic Hours: FASTPASS services are operating as normal.Tokyo Disney Resort – Urayasu, Japan

Photo: Tokyo Disney Resort/Facebook

Face coverings and screenings: Guests will undergo a temperature screening before entering the parks. Masks are required for guests over the age of two, except when eating or drinking. Guests can remove masks in the summer season to prevent heatstroke.Park reservations: To be able to enter parks, guests must book same-day park reservations.Attraction availability: Throughout the park some restaurants and stores are limiting capacity.FASTPASS, MaxPass, Single Rider, and Magic Hours: Single Rider services are temporarily unavailable and alcoholic beverages sales are temporarily unavailable until Aug 31.More like thisNewsThis is how much more you’ll have to pay for Disney Parks tickets by 2031

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Positive environmental news August

This is the Climate Win, the most positive sustainability news around the world every week.

If you follow the news, you know that a major infrastructure bill is inching its way towards approval in the US Senate — following passage by the House of Representatives of its own version. If you want to travel sustainably, you’ll be thrilled about two seriously major developments in the finalized bill.

First, we need to point out that, climate-wise, a lot of the bill doesn’t address the cause of climate change. Rather, in addition to financing much-needed upgrades to US infrastructure, much of the bill funds projects that only address the effects of a warming planet. As The New York Times reports, it will pay for dredging along rivers susceptible to floods, grant billions of dollars to the US Forest Service for data-driven fire mitigation tactics, and fund the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s drive to develop prediction and prevention models of future flooding.

However, there are some key places where Biden’s climate and infrastructure agenda, which we’ve reported on, tackles the sources of climate change — namely, the burning of fossil fuels and the destruction of the natural landscape.

For one, Amtrak, the nationwide passenger railway service provider, is expected to glean some $66 billion in new funding for maintenance, route upgrades, and development. That is huge news for the chronically underfunded railway. The bill also aims to change the legal mission of Amtrak to “meet the intercity passenger rail needs of the United States.”

Since its founding in 1971, Amtrak’s mission has simply been to “justify” its use of public tax dollars. Think of this as a paradigm shift in the mindset of a lackluster student. Rather than showing up to school with a “Cs get degrees,” mentality, Amtrak’s new mission is to secure an “A” across the board — with extra credit to push its efforts over the top. What we as traveling Americans stand to gain is more efficient and effective service from Amtrak. This will include more routes and hopefully, higher-speed trains in the near future.

The second win, if and when the bill becomes law, would hasten the nation’s transition to electric vehicles. The bill would allocate $7.5 billion for the deployment of 250,000 EV charging stations around the country, according to CleanTechnica. This could revolutionize US efforts deliver environmental justice to underserved communities — since more than 33 percent of Americans don’t have a garage or anywhere to charge an electric vehicle at their home.

Smart Cities Dive, reports on a pilot project underway in Kansas City to install EV chargers on light poles and in other conspicuous public places around the city. The goal is to provide charging access to those who cannot install a charger at home or anywhere else where their vehicle spends a lot of its time parked. Together with the charging stations funded by the infrastructure bill, adoption of this pilot by other cities would be huge.

One could certainly point out that a household that can’t afford an EV charging station certainly can’t afford a $70,000 Tesla. But the all-electric Nissan Leaf costs $27,000, and prices for electric vehicles continue to drop. As we’ve reported in this column, EV “gas stations” are coming and as their adoption becomes more widespread, The idea behind the Kansas City initiative is to get ahead of the curve, and to ensure that charging is available for those who need it, whenever they need it.

More climate wins

On the topic of government-funded climate initiatives, Canada’s federal government has announced it will invest $25 million Canadian dollars ($19 million) to boost the ability of wetlands and grasslands across the country to store carbon, Civil Eats reported. The plan will distribute the money to three major organizations to help them enhance the health and functionality of these habitats.

Rapid development in Dubai has made the city anything but friendly to environmental and humanitarian causes. But one developer is giving back with the creation of 500,000 square meters of coral reef. CNN reported that the developer of the Heart of Europe megaresort, among the swath of man-made islands known as “The World,” will fund the creation of the reef through fragmentation. Small pieces of coral, cut from larger pieces, will be monitored until they grow large enough to form a reef.

We close this week with a feel-good story of repurposing and recreation. Across the United States, more than 1,400 abandoned rail lines have been converted into hiking and biking trails, with the help of the organization Rails to Trails, Matador reported this week. The trails can be found in every US state. Your mission this weekend is to find the rail trail closest to you and plot your escape to its trailhead.

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Ultimate guide to solo RV travel

Traveling solo is the kind of thing everyone should do at least once. Being on your own in an unfamiliar place, while a challenge, is a transformative experience. And when you’re solo traveling by RV, the personal growth you’ll experience is only amplified.

Alone on the open road, it’s easy to feel like you’re living in a classic “Choose Your Own Adventure” book. The freedom and flexibility are unmatched: You can explore in any direction the wind blows you. You can pursue new passions and connect with yourself. Whatever kind of adventure you’re looking for, you can go and find it.

Of course, traveling alone has its learning curve — as does RV travel. But put them together, and you’ve got a recipe for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

CHOOSING A RIG, BUILDING YOUR SKILLS

Photo: Mike Bacanu

Making sure you can go it alone will require choosing an RV that you feel totally comfortable driving or towing, parking, setting up, and breaking down on your own. Don’t hesitate to try out multiple models so you can get a real feel for what it’ll be like behind the wheel. And because you’ll only have to cater to your own needs and comfort, solo RV travel offers the opportunity to choose a smaller RV that’s more versatile and maneuverable — maybe even one that can get to out-of-the-way places inaccessible to bigger rigs.

The easiest way to hone the skill of driving your RV may also seem like the most obvious: practice! Drive around your block and neighborhood, preferably several times and in a variety of weather conditions. Be confident and comfortable maneuvering into and out of gas stations, making tight turns, and driving on both smaller surface streets and major highways.

Make up for not having an extra set of eyes by adding modifications that will help you on the road or at camp. High-tech accessories such as back-up cameras and dash cams will make for a less stressful drive. When it comes to setup, look for a leveling system that’s dependable and easy to operate alone.

Learn how to perform the minor repairs your RV might require, and take steps to avoid issues that consume more time and money. Something as simple as learning how to routinely monitor tire pressure could save a major headache down the road — not to mention a solo-and-stranded situation.

But no matter how much you plan and prepare, things will almost assuredly go wrong on the road. Tires go flat. Belts snap. Gas tanks run dry. It’s all a normal part of the adventure, but you should know how to enlist a hand when you need it.

Before you set out, sign up for a roadside assistance plan. Designed specifically for RVers, a Good Sam Roadside plan will save you if you breakdown and your rig needs expert help. To that end, it’s important to think about protection for yourself, too. Invest in emergency travel insurance that will provide coverage if you fall ill or something goes wrong while you’re traveling.

STAYING SAFE, BUILDING COMMUNITY

Photo: Amon Barker

Safety is important — especially when you’re on the road alone. Knowing a few tips and tricks will help you keep yourself secure.

Let’s start with campground choice: Pick places that are staffed or monitored, preferably 24/7. And while it’s never polite to blind your campground neighbor, it is a good idea to install outdoor lighting on your RV to deter anyone from sneaking around. Translucent or opaque window coverings are another beneficial add-on, helping to protect your privacy even in a busy campground.

Depending on what type of activity you’re pursuing, be calculated about your level of risk. RV travel requires a good dose of fearlessness, but it’s also important to stay smart while kayaking or climbing alone, for instance. If you plan to hike, paddle, or ride solo, be sure to sign the trail log or the campground ledger before heading for the backcountry, and ensure there’s always someone who knows you’re out and where you’re headed.

Even for the most experienced traveler, loneliness can strike. The good news is community is easy to come by when you’re RVing. Join online groups, get to know folks around the campground, and attend RVing events to build friendships and find travel companions. Don’t know where to start? It’s Good Sam to the rescue again — the nation’s largest RV community will steer you in the right direction.

BEST SPOTS FOR SOLO ADVENTURE

Photo: Brian Lewis

The list of potential adventure destinations is a long one for the solo RV traveler, but we’ll present some standouts below. And remember: Wherever you’re headed, there’s likely a Good Sam campground near you.

Lake Placid, New York

Few places offer more natural beauty than the Adirondack Mountains, and no matter the time of year a solo camper in Lake Placid is guaranteed a warm welcome. For travelers in smaller RVs, state campgrounds like Lincoln Pond and Taylor Pond give campers their own little slice of paradise.

Marfa, Texas

With its picturesque landscape and reputation as a hub for travelers, artists, naturalists, and more, Marfa is the perfect place to kick off a solo RV adventure. There a number of local RV parks and a friendly scene full of fellow adventurers — Marfa’s the place to go if you’re looking to make friends. Bonus points if you’re there in late summer for the town’s famous festival celebrating the area’s mysterious “Marfa Lights.”

New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia

America’s newest national park is not to be missed. Even beyond the protected and sprawling Appalachian hardwood forest and raging whitewater, the New River Gorge really does have a little something for everyone. Historic small towns and artistic enclaves dot the area and are a blast to explore. And when you’re on your own, what’s to stop you from spending a whole day winding around those country roads? The park has several small campgrounds (no hookups) that can accommodate RVs.

Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana

If you’re seeking peace and quiet, you’ll find it along the southern shore of Lake Michigan in Indiana Dunes National Park. Relax on the beach, birdwatch in the dunes, or — in the colder months — ski or snowshoe on the park’s hundreds of miles of trails. If you’re traveling solo to get away from it all, there’s no better place to be. The park’s Dunewood campground has 53 RV-only sites (no hookups).

North Cascades National Park, Washington

Solo travelers with something to prove should head straight for the wilderness of North Cascades National Park. Soaring, glacier-topped mountains and clear, cold lakes make this some of the most beautifully rugged terrain you’ll find anywhere in North America. If the “mountains are calling,” answer them by solo RVing in the Cascades.

Of course, simply getting out there is the goal. Even if your destination is 30 minutes from your back door, solo RV travel will show you a world you might not believe exists anymore in travel — one with challenges you rise above and adventures that are truly your own, one with infinite freedom and possibility. And it’s all within your reach. All you have to do is travel different.

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