Matador Network's Blog, page 612
July 23, 2021
Take a mountain bike trip with Amtrak and reach the best bike trails in the US
This is The Climate Win, the most positive sustainability news around the world every week.
Americans rediscovered their love of biking during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, many are taking a mountain bike trip with Amtrak. This week’s Climate Win takes a look at a budding travel phenomenon in post-pandemic United States: the practice of taking bicycle trips with zero added emissions.
Hopping on a bike and hitting the road is nothing new, of course. But the current trend combines the practice of bicycle touring and bikepacking with cross-country travel, all the while ditching the car in favor of alternative methods of rapid transport. Cycling company Trek conducted a survey of Americans during the heart of the pandemic last year and found that 21 percent of them biked more during the pandemic and that 50 percent plan to keep riding even post-pandemic for both transportation and exercise. And an impressive 63 percent of those surveyed said that cycling had boosted their mental health during the pandemic — so it’s no surprise that Americans want to keep cycling even as travel restrictions continue to ease.
As travel picks back up, this biking boom presents an interesting option: the possibility of combining cycling with train travel for adventure travel trips that are not just good for your health and mental well-being, but also good for the planet. Several major Amtrak routes pass through parts of the country where epic bike rides are easily accessible from train stations en route. With more trails opening every year, it’s never been easier to take a mountain bike trip with Amtrak.
For example, the popular California Zephyr line, which travels daily between Chicago and Los Angeles, passes through both the Rocky Mountains and the Slickrock desert of the American Southwest. A popular ride stop en route is Glenwood Springs, which offers ample mountain biking and easy access to Aspen (even by bike). Just west is the Grand Junction Amtrak station, which lets you hit the new Palisade Plunge as well as the hundreds of miles of singletrack available in the nearby town of Fruita and all of eastern Utah — including Moab, less than two hours away. Similarly, the Southwest Chief line passes through Flagstaff, Arizona, where cyclists can bike local trails before hopping the Thruway bus and/or Grand Canyon Railway to ride alongside the epic vistas of the Greenway Trail along the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.
East Coasters aren’t left out of the fun. The Capitol Limited route runs from Washington, DC, to Chicago. Disembark in Pittsburgh and hit the epic 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage through the Cumberland Narrows, the Mason-Dixon Line, the Eastern Continental Divide, and more. Pennsylvania just might be the most underrated mountain bike destination in America, with a host of trails stretching east between Pittsburgh and the smaller city of Lancaster in central PA.
In the Pacific Northwest, the Empire Builder line connects cyclists to Montana’s Big Sky country. With a stop at the East Glacier station, mountain bikers can hit all the trails surrounding Glacier National Park and road cyclists can ride the Going-To-The-Sun Road within the park’s boundaries. The Coast Starlight line runs between Seattle and Los Angeles, providing access to the trails of the Cascade Mountains, the road favorite Rim Drive ride via the Klamath Falls stop, and the Burke-Gilman trail near Seattle.
These routes have always accessed these areas, but the bike boom in the United States is drawing increased attention to reaching cycling destinations sans private vehicles. The time is perfect to take a mountain bike trip with Amtrak and make your fall travels with zero added emissions.
More climate winsMaine will shift the expensive price tag of recycling to the companies who produce recyclable materials, The New York Times reported. Companies will be charged based on what they produce, with the money going into an audited nonprofit designed to reimburse municipalities for the cost of their recycling programs. The concept could serve as a model for other states struggling with the increasing financial burdens of recycling programs, with over 10 other states considering similar measures.
Greenland has never produced any oil, despite much speculation that there could be vast reserves under its surface. Fifty years ago, the government decided to try — and they’ve now officially decided to stop, Reuters reported. Multiple major oil companies had attempted to drill for oil since the 1970s, unsuccessfully, and the Greenland government announced this week that it would end all oil exploration.
Single-use plastic bans have been enacted in eight US states, with 42 to go. Greece is one-upping the US by imposing a national single-use plastics ban in an attempt to curb waste and protect the environment, the Greek Reporter noted. The task will be a tough one, given the heavy use of plastic utensils in tourist areas and lack of clean drinking water on many islands — but the government enacted the ban effective July 3 and hopes to phase down consumption of plastic cutlery, bottles, bags, and other single-use plastics beginning immediately. 
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How to travel to Canada during COVID
Travelers from the United States who use to take quick jaunts abroad to their neighbor to the north have been facing severe difficulties for the past 16 months. Canada closed its borders to most people on March 18, 2020, and every month since then, the closure was extended — until now.
Canada is finally easing its travel restrictions for American travelers, but it’s not without rules and requirements. Here’s the low-down for Americans wanting to travel to Canada for leisure during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Can US citizens enter Canada?On July 19, 2021, the government of Canada announced the soft reopening of the country’s borders to American travelers starting August 9, 2021. However, certain conditions apply.
Starting next month, US travelers can enter Canada if:
They are US citizens or permanent residents of the US and currently live in the USThey have been fully vaccinated 14 days before entering CanadaThe vaccines they have received are approved by the government of Canada, i.e. Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca/COVISHIELD, Janssen/Johnson & JohnsonThey have taken a pre-entry COVID-19 molecular test resultUS travelers to Canada who fit all the criteria must also adhere to Canada’s entry requirements, including:
Submitting their travel information on ArriveCAN (app or web portal) before traveling. The travel information to provide includes a detailed quarantine plan. Travelers’ quarantine plan must feature an address where they could isolate themselves for 14 days or longer, where they won’t be in contact with others, and where they will have access to necessities like food, water, medicine, etc.
Providing paper or digital proof of their vaccination status and their negative pre-arrival test.
Submitting to quarantine if symptomatic upon arrival or test positive during a post-arrival test for which they would have been randomly selected.
How can US travelers make their way to Canada starting August 9, 2021?US travelers who meet the criteria and fill in the requirements listed above will be able to enter Canada through land borders and at the following airports:
Montréal-Trudeau International AirportToronto Pearson International AirportCalgary International AirportVancouver International AirportHalifax Stanfield International AirportQuébec City Jean Lesage International AirportOttawa Macdonald–Cartier International AirportWinnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International AirportEdmonton International AirportMore like thisTrain TravelAn overnight train is the best way to experience Canada’s winter wildernessThe post Everything Americans need to know about traveling to Canada right now appeared first on Matador Network.
July 22, 2021
You need a COVID-19 pass to visit the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre
As of Wednesday, July 21, 2021, visitors wishing to go up the Eiffel Tower or visit the treasures housed in France’s many museums will be required to show a COVID-19 pass. This new rule is one of the steps that the French government is taking in its new campaign against the rise in Delta variant infections.
To obtain the COVID-19 pass or to enter, people must show proof that they’re fully vaccinated, the negative results of a test, or proof that they recently recovered from COVID-19.
France reopened to American tourists, vaccinated or not, on June 18.
France’s COVID-19 pass is also required for taking part in other activities such as going to the movies or to the swimming pool. Plans to expand the scope of the COVID-19 pass in August include restaurants, bars, long-distance train excursions, and plane rides, Reuters reported.
The Eiffel Tower reopened on July 16 after being closed for nine months. The famous Parisian landmark will now only allow 10,000 visitors instead of the usual 25,000.
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This year’s Olympics have started — in Alaska
The Olympics are underway, and Alaskans are particularly riveted. No, it’s not because Alaska seceded from the US and entered the Tokyo Olympics as its own country. Since 1961, Alaska has hosted the World Eskimo-Indian Olympics (WEIO) — a four-day event for athletes of Native heritage. The event, which is taking place from July 21 to July 24 this year, draws competitors from all over the state and internationally to compete in games rooted in survival skills and traditional cultural practices. It’s a celebration of the traditional Native culture for the Indigenous communities of the circumpolar region. And unlike the Tokyo Olympics, WEIO is actually allowing crowds this year.
The first WEIO were held in Fairbanks in 1961, as the brainchild of two commercial airline pilots who were flying over some of Alaska’s outlying communities. The pilots, Bill English and Tom Richards Sr., witnessed Indigenous Alaskans performing dances and other activities, like the blanket toss, and thought the rest of the state — namely those living in major cities — could benefit from seeing these traditions up close. Shortly thereafter, the now-defunct Wien Air Alaska hosted the first WEIO, offering to fly athletes from their villages to Fairbanks to compete. Four Eskimo dance groups and two Indian dance groups competed, along with high-kick, blanket toss, and seal skinning athletes. There was also a Miss Eskimo Olympics Queen Contest. The Olympics were so popular that they were held annually, gaining sponsors, producing merchandise, and attracting international media attention.
“To better appreciate the background of these games,” the WEIO website says, “envision yourself in a community village shelter three hundred years ago with the temperature outside at 60 degrees below zero, with everybody in attendance celebrating a successful seal hunt.”
Last year, the WEIO were canceled due to the pandemic — the first cancellation in its history — so this year’s event has a particularly palpable buzz surrounding it. Thousands of spectators regularly gather to watch hundreds of athletes compete in traditional games.
The knuckle hop, for example, requires competitors to hop forward in a push-up position with only their knuckles and toes touching the ground, putting their endurance to the test. In the four-man carry, athletes must carry heavy loads for long periods of time, similar to hauling animal meat home after a hunt. In much the same way, the Indian stick pull mimics grabbing a fish out of the water — two competitors try to grab a greased one-foot-long dowel out of the other’s hand. The Eskimo stick pull requires two athletes to sit on the ground while gripping a stick and pulling, in order to topple their opponent over, testing skills similar to those needed to pull a seal from an ice hole. The ear pull is perhaps the most entertaining, featuring two people with a piece of sinew looped behind their ears who must compete in tug-of-war to rip the sinew from their opponent’s ear.
The WEIO is point of pride for the communities that participate. Amber Applebee, an Athabascan Native, has competed in the competition’s strength events for years, as well as serving as a coach.
Photo: World Eskimo Indian Olympics/Facebook and Greg Lincoln/YouTube
“It’s a tradition amongst [Alaska Natives] to teach,” Applebee told Smithsonian Magazine. “Kids often grow up through this program and see their parents and grandparents competing. We look forward to attending the WEIO because we get to see relatives that we don’t often see. It’s like a big family reunion.”
She added how meaningful it is to pass native traditions onto her children, and how the World Eskimo-Indian Olympics is the gateway for doing that. “It’s really important for me to pass these traditions down from one generation to the next,” she said. “I want my children to know who we are and what our people did, and the WEIO is the best way to do that.”
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5 destinations designed for autism-friendly travel
Traveling with autistic children or family members is a complex proposition. It’s a great way to give your loved one a truly memorable experience, though it can take everyone out of their comfort zone where its easy to feel the most safe and calm. That’s why destinations around the country — from venues like museums to entire cities and regions — have taken steps to be more autism-friendly.
But what does autism-friendly mean, and how can you identify an autism-friendly destination?
Choosing an autism-friendly destination means taking several factors into consideration. Crowd size, accessibility of activities (i.e. length of lines), and potential sensory overload could all negatively impact the travel experience of a person with autism.
Kerrianne Galvin, a licensed social worker who works extensively with youth and their families on behavioral challenges related to autism, believes traveling can be rewarding for autistic individuals, though also challenging and potentially anxiety-inducing.
“Stimuli like light and sound can be overwhelming,” she says. “Autism-friendly destinations take the sensory needs and safety of people with autism into consideration. They can do so by providing trained staff, knowledge of special needs, alternate lighting (dimmable lights and lamps), quiet spaces, and disability services.”
Even if the destination itself is autism friendly, each traveler’s level of tolerance must still be taken into account. That means carefully structuring the trip, regardless of how accommodating the destination might be.
“We usually go out in the morning and then return to the hotel for the afternoon and then out again early evenings.” says Patricia Lynn Ward, a travel coach and single mother of two children with autism. “They need frequent breaks away from the hustle and bustle of busy places, because they can only handle noise and people for so long. So when looking for a destination, I need something where the main attractions are within 30 mins from the hotel.”
Ward also tries to “ensure there is a routine to the day, and basic needs are met. Keep bedtimes and mealtimes the same when possible. Bring snacks and drinks when you are out. Plan each day with the pattern of travel. It helps the individual with autism know what to expect.”
With that in mind, these are a few of the destinations best-suited for autistic travelers in the US.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Photo: ehrlif/Shutterstock
Already among the most popular destinations for family vacations in the US, Myrtle Beach is also one of the best for autistic travelers. In 2018, the city worked closely with restaurants and local attractions to accommodate travelers with special needs.
Most notably, this effort manifested in the CAN Card (Champion Autism Network Card). These cards serve as passes for families where overstimulation might become an issue, and can be used with no questions asked. With a CAN Card, families can skip the line at crowded attractions, get private seating or quicker service at restaurants, and curbside check-in at hotels. Participating venues have been trained to accommodate the needs of autistic visitors. At restaurants, the card will inform servers that you may need to leave at a moment’s notice, may be bringing special food for a member of your family, and may have other special requests. The cards are available at the Myrtle Beach Welcome Center.
In addition to having many businesses with staff trained to accommodate special needs, Myrtle Beach also has several venues designed as autism-friendly environments. Ripley’s Aquarium offers noise-canceling headphones as well as monthly “sensory-friendly mornings,” and Savannah’s Playground is the first enabling playground in the southeast region, specifically engineered with ADA-approved playground equipment for children with disabilities.
Visalia, CaliforniaAutism-friendly destinations tend to offer a wide range of outdoor activities with plenty of space and not too much overstimulation. Nellie Freeborn, the tourism marketing director of Visit Visalia, has a child with autism herself, and says that opportunities to explore as well as space to pull back if necessary makes Visalia an autism-friendly destination.
“In Visalia,” Freeborn says, “we are lucky to be the gateway to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and SequoiaRiverlands Trust properties, where there are lots of outdoor places to explore as well as areas off-the-beaten path for quieter discoveries. The tranquility of these places offer outdoor recreation without overstimulation.”
The Imagine U Children’s Museum is another great option for families with autistic children. The museum offers an expansive indoor/outdoor layout with plenty of space to spread out, and a variety of fun, creative kid-friendly activities.”
Since travelers with autism can often benefit from getting acquainted with a destination before arriving, the Fresno International Airport offers virtual 360 tours to help visitors prepare for travel. The Visalia Marriott Hotel offers the same service for guests to get acquainted with their accommodation prior to arrival.
Dutchess County, New York
Photo: Dutchess County Fairgrounds/Facebook
Many businesses throughout Dutchess County have worked directly with the Anderson Center for Autism to build more supportive environments for visitors. In the town of Rhinebeck, for example, more than 68 percent of business owners, event planners, first responders, and residents have undergone training to handle and accommodate those with disabilities. Many businesses have also incorporated things like quiet spaces, sensory kits, lower light and music, reduced wait times, advance ordering, and more.
Businesses throughout the county, like the Sunflower Market, Northern Dutchess Hospital, Kroeg, and Megabrain Comics, also have sensory kits available for patrons that may benefit from sensory input options.
While fairs and festivals might often prove overwhelming for those with autism, the Dutchess County Fair — which takes place at the end of August — stands apart. The fair offers special hours where rides do not have sound and noise, so those with sensitivities can still enjoy the experience. Restaurants and businesses such as Buns Burgers and Samuel’s Sweet Shop offer special sensory hours as well.
Royal Caribbean CruisesIn 2014, Royal Caribbean became the first autism-friendly cruise line with sensory-related toys, autism-friendly movies, dietary menu options, and kids programs specially modified for those with disabilities. Ship crews are also required to be certified and trained in autism awareness.
Royal Caribbean’s autism-friendly services also include priority check-in, boarding, and departure, Adventure Ocean flexible grouping by ability for children 3 to 11 years old, Adventure Ocean toilet-trained policy exception, and pagers/phones for parents of children in Adventure Ocean youth program.
“Staffed Cruises” are also available to families with children, teens, and adults with autism and other disabilities. This includes staff trained specifically in caring for individuals with developmental disabilities (one staff member for every two to three special needs guests), assistance with cruise products and services, specialized respite sessions, and private activities.
Mesa, Arizona
Photo: OdySea Aquarium/Facebook
In 2019, the Mesa’s destination marketing organization became autism-certified, making the city a “Certified Autism Center” according to the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). That means Mesa is specially equipped to accommodate those with autism.
Guest-facing staff at over 60 Mesa businesses, including hotels, museums, and other family attractions, have also completed autism sensitivity and awareness training, with each business certified individually through IBCCES.
Jake’s Unlimited, for example, was the first attraction in Mesa to become Autism Certified. There’s a play zone offering food, bowling, rides, an arcade, and laser tag, and the staff at Jake’s is trained to handle visitors with autism and accommodate sensory breaks. The onsite buffet also has plenty of options for picky eaters and children with food allergies and aversions. The OdySea Aquarium has also worked to become a comfortable place for visitors with special needs. In addition to staff members with autism awareness training, the aquarium offers a Pal Place video to help people get acquainted with what to expect at the aquarium, a quiet room equipped with sensory items, and autism awareness weekends with lower volumes and fewer crowds.
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Three amazing babymoon destinations in the US to relax before your life changes forever
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.
Where to take a babymoon is a common question for expecting parents. After all, this is your last chance to get away before your family grows and your entire travel mindset changes. Here we cover three top babymoon destinations, one on the west coast, one out east, and one along the beaches of south Florida. Each offers relaxation mixed with plenty of dining and entertainment options.
Pacific Northwest
Photo: Checubus/Shutterstock
The Pacific Northwest leads our list of top babymoon destinations because here you can indulge in the culinary and cultural riches of Portland and Seattle while also escaping to the great outdoors. Oregon’s coastline offers many state parks perfect for long beach walks and picnics in front of the surf, such as Nehalem Bay State Park and Oswald West State Park. Here, you’ll trade both the heat and the crowds of beaches to the south for wide-open sand and dramatic rock cliffs that amplify the sound of the crashing waves. In perhaps the most perfect babymoon activity in the history of babymoons, stop into the Tillamook Creamery in Tillamook, where you and your partner can gorge on cheese and ice cream to your heart’s content.
Portland’s bohemian vibe is easily channeled into a laid-back urban stay. Sleep in late, grab brunch at The Daily Feast or Cheryl’s on 12th, and willow away an afternoon browsing way too many books at Powell’s City of Books.
Seattle’s Pike Place Market is the best market in the US to celebrate, well, anything really, but the impending arrival of a baby, in particular. Here you’ll find vendors hawking baby jumpers, small thank you gifts for the two family members that actually followed through on what you listed on your registry, and wellness products like supplements and natural skincare, all within a quick stroll from one another. Ample unique dining options present themselves, most notably The Crumpet Shop, which dishes out actual British crumpets from a takeout window located a two-minute walk from the first-ever Starbucks Coffee. And of course, there’s the famed Pike Place Chowder, which is definitely worth the wait. One thing to note about the Pike Place Market — if sensitive to the scent of seafood, arrive after 8:00 AM and scurry through or around the portion of the market focused on raw fish.
Where to stay on a babymoon in the Pacific Northwest
Photo: Airbnb
The best place to stay for a babymoon in Portland is the Heathman Hotel (from $141 per night). Located right downtown, the Heathman is known for well-trimmed, high-end accommodations and tailored service akin to staying at a close friend’s home. Plus, each of the activities and spots listed above are a short walk away. The hotel is pet-friendly, has an onsite cafe, and is quite walkable to anything downtown. Be sure to hang out in the library for at least a cup of coffee and potentially an entire day of pretending you’re Sylvia Blackwell.
If you prefer to stay in Portland outside of downtown, opt for an Airbnb in the Laurelhurst or Buckman neighborhoods. This area, just across the Willamette River from downtown, is close to everything and offers the Portland bohemian experience in all its glory — the epic Pod 28 food truck court, long strolls through Laurelhurst Park, and plenty of classy establishments at which to dine including Screen Door Eastside and The Slide Inn. We recommend the cozy Pine Street Guest Cottage for a babymoon stay, a well-heeled architectural dream that provides plenty of space to lounge, a patio on which to watch the city go by, and the utmost level of cleanliness.
In Seattle, the Hotel Monaco (from $250 per night) puts you downtown and is a five-minute walk from Pike Place Market. The rooms are clean and modern, and of equal importance, they’re quiet — a must for proper babymoon resting. The hotel’s valet and concierge service can include hotel and activity recommendations texted to you by the staff.
If you prefer to stay closer to the Space Needle, this top-floor apartment ($125 per night) offers views out over Elliott Bay and is a quick hop to the needle and the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum. There are also loads of boutique properties available between there and the heart of downtown.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Photo: BODY SENSE DAY SPA/Facebook
Cape Cod was practically built for relaxation. For those in New England or the northeastern corridor, it’s accessible via car within a day’s drive, putting you along an iconic seashore with mellow waves, delicious seafood, and a hard stop on the hustle and bustle of big city life. Of course, being in this environment calls to mind one primary activity — getting a massage. We recommend the spa Body Sense Beauty Clinic which offers a couples Swedish massage that will put you and your partner in the right frame of mind.
Responsible parenting begins with encouraging and fomenting responsibility and personal growth in your children. You can get ahead of the curve on Cape Cod by planting the seed for your child to become a sailor or at the very least, someone who is comfortable with and accustomed to living by the sea. By this, we mean lounging waterside at Skaket Beach, Marconi Beach, and Old Silver Beach, at a rate of one beach per day. All that work should of course be followed by a healthy lunch at the Spoon and Seed or a classic Cape Cod dinner at the Old Yarmouth Inn.
Where to stay for a babymoon on Cape Cod
Photo: Expedia
A beachside cottage does the trick in Cape Cod. This comfortable and well-heeled cottage ($397 per night) gives you access to a private beach for your partner and yourself to lounge without feeling conscious of time or people. Down in Harwich, this cottage ($200 per night) comes with a boardwalk right to the sand. The cool waters of Nantucket Sound await just outside, and the home comes with bikes should you wish to pedal to dinner.
If you prefer a hotel stay, opt for the Cape Codder Resort and Spa in Hyannis (from $315 per night). Cruise the onsite lazy river, if you’re up to it, but definitely take advantage of the hotel’s spa and the loads of nearby shopping. The hotel is quiet, near the highway and the airport, and is in a prime location from which to escape to the (semi)wild outdoors that Cape Cod is known for.
Miami Beach, Florida
Photo: Expedia
Miami Beach makes our list of top babymoon destinations because there’s nowhere better to flat-out spoil yourselves. Lincoln Road is the spot for an early morning stroll to breakfast at Crema before a lazy walk through Soundscape Park. Miami Beach is the best place to shop in all of Florida, whether that be for baby or for yourselves. You’ll find everything you need along Lincoln Road, including mall standards and local standouts like Wings Beachwear. But really, Miami Beach is all about where you stay — especially on your babymoon.
Where to stay for a babymoon in Miami Beach
Photo: Expedia
Self-spoiling can be done to excess at the Nobu Hotel Miami Beach (from $240 per night) and the Eden Roc Hotel (from $404 per night). Guests at the Nobu enjoy a specialized in-room dining menu, easy access to the hotel’s high-end spa service, and a private pool that is ideal for laying out without many people around. The hotel is nearby to the beach, to famous shops like Market Miami Beach and restaurants including the beautifully-named Matador Room, but it’s removed from the South Beach nightlife strip so you won’t have to worry about late-night revelers disturbing baby or momma’s slumber.
The historic Eden Roc Hotel gives you the chance to stay where celebrities stay, in a relatively affordable manner. Nat King Cole debuted his song “Mona Lisa” in a ballroom here, and both Elizabeth Taylor and Katherine Hepburn have been known to tuck in for a night.
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All the gear you need to have for an incredible African safari experience
We hope you love the African safari gear we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you make a purchase. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Whether you’re planning a South African safari or a trek up Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro, bringing the right gear is imperative. Not doing so can make or break your holiday, especially if you are exploring a remote area. If you’re doing a five-star safari experience in Kenya or Botswana, for instance, most of what you’ll need will be for vanity rather than survival purposes. But if you are planning a road trip through Namibia (which is safe and doable), you’ll want to make sure you come prepared with everything from a solid sleeping bag to a water sterilization pen. Here’s the African safari gear you’ll need for a successful trip.
Camera
Photo: Amazon
For any African safari, a camera beyond your smartphone is the best piece of gear you can invest in. Even when you get up close to animals on safari, your camera phone just doesn’t cut it for a quality photo. You want a camera with good quality zoom and lens for a clear picture of a pride of lions or a leopard in a tree. Only the largest and easiest to approach animals, like elephants, giraffes, or zebra herds, will be close enough to capture with your smartphone.
Camera price points vary dramatically. DSLR cameras with interchangeable lens cost thousands of dollars. Unless you are planning a career in professional photography, you don’t need to go this route to capture great safari images. The Sony Cyber-Shot RX10 IV is a great bridge camera choice. A bridge camera is a step up from point-and-shoot cameras and a step down from the DSLR style. They are easier to operate than DSLRs yet still deliver top image quality at a mid-range price point. This Sony model comes with a fixed lens, optical and digital zoom, and super-fast autofocus, allowing amateur photographers to take stunning photos. It also shoots 4K video with a super slow motion setting that is great for chase scenes. It costs around $1700. Pair it with a small tripod, and you will be all set for a safari.
The Sony Cyber Shot RX 100 V is a solid value choice for a more affordable model. It can shoot 24 shots per second, which is a fast fps for still images and makes capturing animals in motion a reality. This camera also shoots 4K video and has a price-point of less than $600.
Price: $445 to $1800
Luggage
Photo: iFly
Whether you bring a suitcase or a backpack will depend on the style of trip you take. A suitcase should suffice for any general African safari experience, although we recommend bringing along a daypack (either as your carry-on or empty in your suitcase). A daypack is really convenient for day hikes, beach excursions, and safaris when you can throw in layers, your camera, sunscreen, and a water bottle. The REI Co-op Stuff Travel Pack is tough enough to withstand African travel yet still lightweight and easy to pack. Retailing at $34.95, it can hold up to 20L of gear and comes in a cool black print.
For a suitcase, we love the iFly Hardside Fibertech line. This line offers affordable yet high-quality suitcases that are easy to move with their four spinning wheels, and have hard-side but ultra-lightweight cases that don’t give up after a few flights. There are three different sizes: carry-on (from $85), medium (from $95), and large (from $105). The iFly Hardside Fibertech two-piece set in Rose Gold looks great when contrasted with the golden sunsets common on southern African safaris, although there are over half a dozen color choices.
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35 L Travel Pack ($200) is our top pick for a proper backpack. Small enough to carry on yet large enough to carry a decent amount of clothes, shoes, and gear, it features a top-of-the-line suspension system to distribute weight evenly thanks to contoured shoulder straps, a removable hip belt, and a breathable air-mesh back panel. It has a suitcase-style full-wrap zipper opening on the main compartment that makes it easy to see what you’ve packed and access clothes without digging blindly through a bag. This pack has it all, including a protected laptop compartment.
Price: $35 to $200
Shop REI Stuff Travel Pack
Shop iFly Hardside Fibertech
Shop Cotopaxi Allpa
Photo: Bali Market
If you plan to attend a lot of picnics or days at the beach before or after the safari or want something to lay out with in front of the lodge, then the Bali Market Blanket/Bag is a fun accessory to bring along. The blanket folds up into its own bag and has a small front pocket for phone, keys, sunscreen, and more. The product is made from soft Turkish cotton and is heavy enough to not sail away in a light breeze. When folded up to create the backpack, there is also space in the main pocket for more gear like a paperback book or a water bottle.
Price: $78
Sleeping bag and air mattress
Photo: REI
If you plan to stay in backpacker hostels, partake in a camping safari, or head out on a trekking adventure, then bring a sleeping bag and pad. Sleeping bags have become so compressible that it is easy to throw one in just in case — we also love them for long-haul economy plane flights. Sea to Summit makes great, ultra light-weight bags. Depending on the low nighttime temperatures where you will be, you may be able to get away with a sleeping bag that packs down to the size of a 16-oz water bottle, which makes it easy to throw in a carry-on bag. Try the Spark Ultralight Sleeping Bag ($379) if you want to save on space. It comes in five versions for performance in all seasons. In Africa, unless you are camping in the mountains in the winter or summiting Kili, it is unlikely you will need anything rated below 28 degrees Fahrenheit. These bags are mummy-shaped but still roomy enough to not feel constricting.
For camping, complete the package with the Comfort Light Insulated Air Sleeping Mat ($169.95). Using a bag built into the case to blow up to 2.5 inches of thickness, it has two separate layers of interlocking air chambers that mean if one side of your mat punctures, the other side will still function until it’s repaired.
Price: $170 to $379
Shop Spark Sleeping Bag
Shop Comfort Light Sleeping Pad
Photo: Omnicharge
A portable power bank is handy for so many reasons, especially if you will be off the grid for a few days and want to keep cameras and phones charged. Omnicharge makes several devices that vary in price depending on the amount of power they provide. If you think you’ll need to recharge devices multiple times between fixed power sources, consider the Omni Ultimate by Omnicharge ($399). At three pounds, it isn’t super lightweight, but it has the capacity to charge laptops, smartphones, and even drones multiple times at a fast pace. This charger also has adjustable voltage and amperage, and you can buy a second battery for an even greater charge time. Omni makes a number of less powerful but still very functional devices that are both lower-priced and lighter if you just need to power up your phone a few times.
Solar chargers are another option, but they take a lot longer to charge a device and require direct sunlight to do so. If you have time and just want something lightweight, try the Solar Power Bank 3000 by Tekpluze ($42.99).
Price: $399
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Photo: REI
The Katadyn Steripen Ultra UV Water Purifier is an excellent piece of African safari gear for any adventure. We’ve used it on a two-month stint in Madagascar without getting sick after using it to purify drinking water on a daily basis. The purifier is super easy to use — just click a button and gently agitate the water in a 16-oz wide-neck water bottle. Purifying takes less than a minute using UV-C light rays to destroy 99.99% of protozoa (including Giardia and Cryptosporidium), bacteria, and even some viruses. This pen protects drinking water from typhoid (but still get your vaccine before travel as you can contract typhoid fever in multiple ways), cholera, botulism, and dysentery. It also works well even for places where the tap water is supposed to be safe but still feels questionable.
Price: $119
Satellite texting device
Photo: Somewear Labs
While many places in Africa have excellent cell phone service, there are exceptions in more remote areas, including safari destinations. If you want to keep in touch regardless of where you are, consider purchasing a satellite texting device before traveling. Somewear Labs makes a lightweight satellite hotspot that pairs with your smartphone via a slick app. You can send and receive texts via satellite even when you are offline. The device is easy to use on both ends, and the company offers plans as low as $9 per month that can be paused when you aren’t traveling. The device itself costs $250. This is also a great device for backcountry camping adventures anywhere in the world and allows you to send your coordinates as well as track your trips.
Price: $250 plus service from $9 per month
Safari-appropriate clothing
Photo: REI
For safari, you will want to dress in layers. Since dawn and dusk are the best times of day to see animals, you’ll likely head up before sunrise for your morning safari and return after sunset (with a break in the middle of the day) for your evening trip. Besides bright sun (most vehicles are at least open-sided with some also topless, which allows for the most unimpeded views), you’ll also want to protect yourself against mosquito bites, which means long sleeves and pants are recommended.
We love the REI Co-op Sahara Button Up Long Sleeve Shirt ($59.95) for its versatility. When the mozzies are biting or the temperature is chilling, keep the sleeves rolled down, but when you heat up, you can easily roll the sleeves up to your elbows and button them into place. The shirt is stretchy, comfortable, and ventilated. It is also made from quick-drying fabric and comes in several colors. The shirt pairs well with the REI Co-op Sahara Roll-Up Pants ($59.95) that can be rolled up to two different lengths for versatility throughout the day. Fabric on both the shirt and shorts is UPF 50+ sun protection rated.
You’ll also want a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection. We encourage you to shop at the Zero Waste Store for its mission to protect nature and the environment. The marketplace thoroughly vets its products before listing them. The Zoila Boater Hat is a great African travel hat. Made by Minga, from 100 percent Ecuadorian wool felt, the hat is handcrafted and has a veg-tanned leather band. The hat keeps you cool or warm, depending on the season.
While on the Zero Waste Store’s site, another awesome travel brand for women is Wolven. The company makes some really trendy, yoga-style tops and leggings. We especially loved the Amalfi Key-hole top ($72) and bell-bottom leggings. If you are curvy, order one size larger for a great fit.
Price: $60 and up
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Photo: REI
High-quality sunglasses will save your eyes on a trip to Africa, especially if you’re going anywhere near the equator, the beach, or on safari. Costa del Mar makes a full range of polarized lens glasses that stand up to the elements while also looking trendy. These are especially popular if you plan to try some of South Africa’s epic surfing or are going whitewater rafting in Uganda, as they have some great water-ready features, including hydrolite nose pads and temple grips that help keep the glasses on your head upon impact with water. The uber-comfortable Costa sunglasses ($269) in matte green reef with green lenses are a favorite, but there are plenty of other styles.
Price: $269
Mosquito protection
Photo: Thermacell
Mosquitos are more than a nuisance in many African countries. They also spread deadly diseases like malaria. Beyond the typical DEET or another harsh-odored spray, Thermacell makes zone mosquito repellents that drive away these obnoxious pests with the push of a button. The MR 300 Portable Mosquito Repellent works exceptionally well for water safaris like dug-out canoes through the Okavango Delta since it can be attached to a boat. The device uses chrysanthemum to create an invisible force field to deter mosquitos. We recommend trying this to start but also carrying a heavier spray if bugs are really bad.
Price: $49.99
Headlamp and lantern
Photo: Princeton Tec
A good headlamp is a perk for any African trip. Whether the electricity goes out or you just want to see in dark places, these devices are super portable and can stay charged for hundreds of hours. Try the Princeton Tech Vizz ($54.95), as it has a red light setting to preserve night vision while lighting your path.
A small USB rechargeable lantern like the BioLite BaseLantern ($133.32) is also a useful light source, especially if you will be camping or staying somewhere without electricity. It doubles as a power bank, so no need to buy an additional power source. Plus, BioLite gives back to countries in Africa and Asia by donating a product for each item sold. In 2020 the company crossed the million lives milestone, having delivered safe and reliable energy to more than 1.7 million people in need for free.
Price: $55 to $134
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The post All the gear you need to have for an incredible African safari experience appeared first on Matador Network.
Visit the spots where the six first-ever US Olympic surfers learned to ride the waves
Surfing is set to make its Olympic debut at the Tokyo Olympics this month. The US Olympic surf team consists of four surfers and two alternates. This year’s world champion John John Florence and Kolohe Andino will be joined by alternate Kelly Slater, the team’s most recognizable face, having won 11 world titles in his career. Four-time world champ Carissa Moore and Caroline Marks will lead the women’s team, with Lakey Peterson as an alternate.
What’s cool about surfing is that, unlike many Olympic sports, the spots where pros practice while at home aren’t cordoned off inside buildings or professional training centers. More often than not, the stars you’ll see on TV in the coming weeks practice on public beaches with spectators watching from the shore. You can practice where they practice, or at least where they got started, at these surf spots in the hometowns of the US Olympic surfing team.
Santa Barbara, California — hometown of Lakey Peterson
Photo: MallmannPhoto/Shutterstock
Santa Barbara isn’t as well-known in California surf lore as Ventura to the south or Santa Cruz to the north. But Lakey Peterson turned pro at 16 after spending several years practicing with a neighboring family here, lured by an already strong love of the ocean. Leadbetter Beach, right in town, is an ideal spot for beginner and intermediate surfers to hit the waves in Santa Barbara. Rincon Point is the most famous surf spot in town, though the true experts head to Hammonds Point, Sandspit, and the Channel Islands.
Cocoa Beach, Florida — hometown of Kelly Slater
Photo: Claire de Beer/Shutterstock
That 49-year-old Kelly Slater is on the roster of the US Olympic surf team is a testament to his incredible stamina and skill, qualities that have earned him the reputation as the greatest surfer of all time. These days, when he isn’t traveling the world, you’re most likely to find Kelly Slater ripping the waves at his own Kelly Slater Surf Ranch in California. If you’re not keen to cough up the roughly $10,000 it can cost to spend a day surfing there (if you can even get in), try the moderate waves of Cocoa Beach, Florida, where Slater grew up. The Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier is the spot if you want to show off your skills in front of the beach crowds, or for a more relaxed experience, try 2nd Light Beach. Neither offers the perfect tubes of Slater’s ranch, in fact, both tend to be quite mellow by a seasoned surfer’s standards, but there’s something to be said for following in the footsteps (paddle strokes?) of the King.
Melbourne Beach, Florida — hometown of Caroline Marks
Photo: L Paul Mann/Shutterstock
Head north from Slater’s hometown to Melbourne Beach, where fellow US Olympic surf team member Caroline Marks started surfing at the age of eight (only nine years ago). The main beach has consistent swell much of the year outside of summer and is approachable for beginner and intermediate surfers. The main break is off Ocean Avenue, Spessard Holland Beach Parks is home to breaks populated by those in the know here, as they’re located in a largely residential area. This is where you’ll find better waves, and on the perfect day, maybe even the local celebrity herself.
San Clemente, California — hometown of Kolohe Andino
Photo: Brian A. Witkin/Shutterstock
Surfing runs in the Andino family. Andino is the son of pro surfer Dino Andino and got on a surfboard as a young kid with his father’s influence. San Clemente, where Kalohe was born and lives, is lined with surf spots T-Streets and Trestles, both legendary local spots that draw crowds when the swell comes in. San Onofre State Beach is the town’s classic line of breaks that include Dogpatch, Old Man’s, and the Point. These are ideal for beginner and intermediate surfers.
Waikiki, Honolulu, Hawaii — hometown of Carissa Moore
Photo: Phillip B. Espinasse/Shutterstock
While surfers heading to Oahu tend to have the North Shore top-of-mind, spending time in the tourist-heavy environs of Waikiki offers a dose of celebrity nostalgia. Carissa Moore learned to surf at Waikiki Beach in Honolulu under the tutelage of her father. She quickly progressed to tougher surf breaks, but as a Honolulu resident, Moore is still a local around Waikiki. The area is home to many surf breaks including Publics and Queen’s on one end and Rockpiles and Kaiser’s on the other, with Threes, Fours, and more waves than you can count in between. Base yourself in Waikiki, and no shortage of action is right in front of you.
Haleiwa, Honolulu, Hawaii — hometown of John John FlorencePhoto: JJM Photography/Shutterstock
After getting comfortable on the waves of Waikiki, make your way to Banzai Pipeline in Pūpūkea, where you’ll need to watch from the sand unless your surf skills are expert-level. If you do catch a crest high enough, though, you might spot the house where John John Florence grew up. Banzai is one of the toughest waves on the planet, and is the stuff of legend in the surf community. Even watching the locals in the water popping up, riding the high line, and getting shacked (a barrel ride) is enough to give you goosebumps — even if you never get pitted deep in the barrel yourself.
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The three sites delisted by UNESCO
Just about everyone can name a UNESCO World Heritage site, be it Vatican City, Machu Picchu, or the Taj Mahal. In some cases, designating these landmarks is all people know about what UNESCO actually does. Yet the World Heritage List, which recognizes and conserves monuments of “outstanding universal value” all over the world, wasn’t established until 1975, a full three decades after the organization was founded.
Among the first sites inscribed for their natural, cultural, or dual significance were the Galapagos Islands; the Historic Center of Kraków, Poland; the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, Ethiopia; and Yellowstone National Park. To date, there are 1,121 World Heritage sites across 167 countries. New sites are added each year, both protecting our global heritage and inspiring new travel plans. On rarer, sadder occasions, World Heritage sites have also lost their designations.
Fifty-three sites are currently endangered, meaning they’re at risk of being destroyed or critically damaged by human conflict, natural disasters, climate change, tourism, etc. In the history of the World Heritage List, only three sites have been fully removed and a fourth partially delisted. These are the stories of those delisted UNESCO sites.
1. Liverpool Maritime Mercantile City — England
Photo: N.M.Bear/Shutterstock
Liverpool is the latest World Heritage site to lose its UNESCO status. The backbone of one of the world’s most important ports in the 18th and 19th centuries, the city’s docklands earned the trading hub its UNESCO designation in 2004. Not only was Liverpool’s port recognized for its technological innovations and impressive operations, but the entire city center was deemed historic enough to merit a World Heritage inscription. Less than a decade later, in 2012, a development project known as Liverpool Waters landed Maritime Mercantile City on UNESCO’s endangered list.
The point of the Liverpool Waters project was to modernize the city’s docklands. The undertaking ushered in a range of new developments, including apartments, hotels, and offices, all of which were written off as “detrimental to the site’s authenticity and integrity” by UNESCO despite creating housing and jobs for locals. Further development also contributed to Liverpool’s deletion from the World Heritage List, including the possibility of a new Everton FC soccer stadium that’s been proposed for the Bramley-Moore docks.
2. Arabian Oryx Sanctuary — Oman
Photo: Katiekk/Shutterstock
Of the four antelope species that belong to the Oryx genus, three are native to arid regions of Africa while one traces back to the deserts and coastal hills of the Arabian Peninsula. Though the Arabian oryx was classified as extinct in the wild in 1972 due to poaching and habitat degradation, the species was successfully bred in captivity in the United States and eventually introduced back into the Omani wilderness a decade later.
Sultan Qaboos bin Said established the Arabian Oryx Sanctuary in 1982 to restore the antelope population in Oman, a move that UNESCO acknowledged in 1994 when the sanctuary was inscribed on the World Heritage List. Along with the hundreds of oryxes released, which numbered 450 in 1996, the nature reserve was also a breeding site for the Arabian wolf, Arabian gazelle, endangered houbara bustard, and other significant species. Sadly, the reserve’s glory days were short-lived as the Omani government slashed its size by 90 percent in 2007 after oil was discovered within the reserve’s bounds. By then, due in part to a resurgence of poaching, the Arabian oryx population had dwindled down to double digits.
Following Oman’s decision to drastically reduce the park’s size, and compromise the oryx’s viability, the World Heritage Committee made the difficult decision to remove the Arabian Oryx Sanctuary from the World Heritage List, making it the first site to be delisted in June 2007.
3. Dresden Elbe Valley — Germany
Photo: Haidamac/Shutterstock
Two years after Oman’s Arabian Oryx Sanctuary was delisted, Dresden’s Elbe Valley, a cultural crossing throughout history that was once compared to Florence for its contribution to the European architectural landscape, also got the boot from the World Heritage Committee.
It was originally added to the World Heritage List in 2004 for its more than 10 miles of artifacts lining the Elbe River, which include everything from the baroque Pillnitz Palace to bridges and funiculars dating back to the Industrial Revolution and any number of 18th- and 19th-century urban developments. The valley was also recognized for its scenery and flora, be it found in large swaths of meadows, grand gardens, or relics of early viticultural practices.
Though much of the valley was destroyed during the bombing of Dresden during World War II, the valley’s most impressive monuments were restored long before receiving UNESCO status. You may be wondering what, then, rendered the rebuilt Elbe Valley no longer eligible for UNESCO’s stamp of cultural approval. That would be the four-lane Waldschlösschen Bridge.
After years of back and forth, and pleas from the United Nations and German government to abandon the project, the Dresden City Council rejected federal funds offered to build a tunnel and went forth with its plans to build a bridge across the Elbe to ease traffic congestion. The majority of residents supported the plan, despite warnings that it would forfeit the valley’s UNESCO World Heritage status and, in turn, much of its tourism. Construction began on the controversial Waldschlösschen Bridge in 2007 and finished in 2012. Midway through in 2009, the Dresden Elbe Valley was removed from the World Heritage List.
4. Bagrati Cathedral — Georgia
Photo: monticello/Shutterstock
Only three UNESCO sites have been officially delisted, but there is a fourth that lost half of its heritage status. In 1994, the Bagrati Cathedral and neighboring Gelati Monastery in Kutaisi, Georgia’s second city after Tbilisi, were inscribed as icons of Georgian architecture and hubs of community life from the 10th and 12th centuries on, respectively. Following major renovations to the medieval Bagrati Cathedral that seriously compromised its authenticity and historical worth, the holy site was removed from the World Heritage List in 2017 while the Gelati Monastery, with structures that were built between the 12th and 17th centuries, remains.
Photo: Vladimir Zhoga/Shutterstock
Unlike the Bagrati Cathedral, the Gelati Monastery has been largely unadulterated over time. Erected during the Byzantine Empire, its arched, stone exterior represents the golden age of Georgian architecture while the interior preserves mosaics like the artwork of the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus decorating the apse of the main church, as well as striking frescoes and intricate wall paintings. One of the largest medieval Orthodox monasteries, it also doubled as an academy that inspired years of scientific and academic progress, securing its place on UNESCO’s World Heritage List as one of Georgia’s most historic, best-preserved landmarks.
The post Four amazing sites that lost their UNESCO World Heritage status appeared first on Matador Network.
Beyond Tahiti, here are some stunning family-friendly islands to visit in French Polynesia
Paradise really does exist here on Earth and it’s found roughly halfway between California and the east coast of Australia in French Polynesia. Better known as the islands of Tahiti, French Polynesia’s 118 islands and atolls stretch over 1,200 miles in the South Pacific Ocean, serving as a massive natural water playground for families. Beyond swimming and water activities, families can enjoy a pleasant climate and a range of accommodation options including brand-name resorts.
The unique blend of French and Polynesian cultures makes for the perfect family-friendly vacation experience. As each of the islands in French Polynesia has its own character and attributes, the only hard part of visiting is choosing where to explore and make a base. From Tahiti to the well-known Bora Bora through to lesser-visited islands such as Raiatea, here’s a rundown of five stunning family-friendly islands in French Polynesia.
1. When visiting the islands in French Polynesia don’t skip Tahiti
Photo: Tahiti Tourisme/Facebook
Tahiti is your first introduction to French Polynesia as all international flights land here. Over 60 percent of French Polynesia’s residents call Tahiti home and as a result, the capital Papeete has everything you could possibly need, including the colorful markets for fresh fruits, vegetables, and knick-knack supplies. As far as capital cities go, Papette is compact and therein lies its great charm.
Many people jump straight on a plane to the outer islands of Bora-Bora or Moorea from Tahiti without taking time to explore its stunning coast, beautiful black sand beaches with mountainous backdrops, swimming holes and iconic surf breaks.
The island’s coastal road follows a roughly figure-eight shape as Tahiti is divided into two circles connected by an isthmus. The larger circle is home to the capital and is known as Tahiti Nui (Big Tahiti) and the smaller is known as Tahiti Iti (Little Tahiti).
The east coast of Tahiti Nui is full of natural wonders for families to explore. Here you will find the Faarumai Waterfalls, a series of three waterfalls which you can hike to. Vaimahutu, the first, is only a short walk from a nearby parking lot and is easily accessible by those with a young family in tow. The other two, Haamarere Iti and Haamarere Rahi, fall side by side and require another 20 minutes of walking.
Families with a keen surfer may have heard of the surf spot Teahupoo, which is found on Tahiti Itti. The Tahiti Billabong Pro is held here every May, a surfing competition that attracts the best surfers from all over the world. Boat excursions are a fun activity here too and a half-day trip usually involves a visit to Vaipoiri Cave, a picnic lunch, and a trip out to the big waves to watch the die-hard surfers.
2. Huahine is perfect for families who prefer under-the-radar destinations
Photo: The Islands of Tahiti
Huahine is less commercially developed than Tahiti and this is probably its greatest charm for families who thrive on experiencing lesser-visited destinations and don’t necessarily require a five-star resort to have a great time. That’s not to say that luxury can’t be found, it definitely can, but it doesn’t dominate the island with brand-name resorts like on Bora Bora or Moorea.
Like Tahiti, Huahine actually consists of two islands, Huahine Nui (Big Huahine) and Huahine Iti (Little Huahine) except on this island, the two sections are connected by a man-made bridge. Huahine Nui is home to most of the main tourist facilities and the village of Fare. In contrast, Huahine Iti is quieter with long stretches between tiny villages, the island’s best beaches, and a wonderful azure lagoon.
Although your accommodation can organize a tour for you to see the highlights of Huahine, the barely trafficked roads make hiring a car to explore on your own a really easy option. Lagoon tours are an enjoyable outing for families to experience Huahine’s sparkling lagoon and usually include stops for snorkeling among coral gardens, a picnic on a motu (a very small island), and a visit to a pearl farm.
3. Head to Moorea for picture-perfect scenery and comfort
Photo: The Islands of Tahiti
Moorea’s lagoon and mountainous peaks are out of this world and due to the wide range of brand-name resorts and pensions (private guest houses) to choose from, and its ease of access by boat from Tahiti, the island is a popular choice for families.
While many of the other islands in French Polynesia involve a plane trip over the ocean to reach them, you can get to Moorea in 45 minutes via a catamaran at a cost significantly less than plane travel. This is of particular benefit to families who are often forking out for three or more tickets compared to a single or couple.
One of the best ways to experience the island is by taking a 4WD land tour. Most tours visit the two beautiful waterfalls in Afareaitu, the island’s administrative center, Opounohu Bay, a vanilla plantation and pineapple farm, archaeological sites, and the fruit juice factory. The tours cover a lot in one half-day and provide the opportunity to learn of the island’s history from the guide.
Likewise, the best way to discover Moorea’s lagoon is by joining a lagoon excursion. Typically this will include a stop at two bays, shark or fish feeding, swimming with stingrays, and a picnic lunch.
4. Raiatea is the best island in French Polynesia for a local experience
Photo: The Islands of Tahiti
Home to the second-largest town in French Polynesia (after Papeete in Tahiti), Raiatea shares its large lagoon with a smaller island, Tahaa. Raiatea features a lush-green mountainous interior and is considered to be the spiritual center of all the islands due to Marae Taputapuatea — the most important traditional temple in French Polynesia. Raiatea does not get many tourists making it ideal for families seeking to truly experience French Polynesia without the tourist hype.
Both Raiatea and Tahaa have very few beaches but don’t let this put you off, as the lagoon surrounding the islands features numerous white sand motus, that make up for it. Many of the motus are picture-perfect, particularly Moto Ofetaru which you can visit on a day trip to enjoy the turquoise water, coconut trees, and great snorkeling.
Moto Ofetaru is particularly suitable for families as the snorkeling is shallow, ensuring they don’t miss out on the bright tropical fish that swim around the large heads of coral. There are toilets on the island but no shops so you will need to bring your own lunch.
Much like in Moorea, one of the easiest ways to experience the island is by a guided excursion. The day trips often focus on the island of Tahaa but also ensure you see the best of the islands, including snorkeling in a coral garden, visiting a pearl and vanilla farm, and a picnic lunch on a beautiful motu.
5. Bora Bora is ideal for a luxurious flop and drop family vacation
Photo: Alexandree/Shutterstock
Despite its reputation as a honeymoon destination, Bora Bora’s expansive lagoon, brand-name resorts, and countless tourism offerings make it particularly family-friendly. The fact that it looks exactly, if not better than the tourist brochures is a huge bonus.
Bora Bora is particularly mountainous and as a result, the airport is located on its own tiny island, where visitors are then transported by boat to either their accommodation or the town of Vaitape, the island’s main settlement. Regardless of whether you stay in an ultra-luxurious over-water bungalow or a value-for-money pension, this is a very safe and comfortable option for a family vacation.
A half or full-day cruise on Bora Bora’s lagoon is one of the best ways to orientate yourself and tour operators know the best spots for snorkeling and swimming. Although the island is all about the lagoon, a 4WD excursion into the mountainous interior is a great introduction to the WWII historical sites, local archaeological stops, and lookouts that you may want to come back and explore at your own pace before you leave.
One particularly enjoyable attraction is the traditional dance shows held at various brand-name resorts a few times a week. The entertainment is family-friendly with traditional Polynesian dancing, costumes, drumming, and ukulele playing. A buffet is usually on offer with a variety of food to please even the pickiest of young eaters.
The post Beyond Tahiti, here are some stunning family-friendly islands to visit in French Polynesia appeared first on Matador Network.
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