Matador Network's Blog, page 617
August 3, 2021
Pharrell Williams’ Goodtime Hotel is a joyful escape from real life
A modern take on Miami’s famous and fabulous Art Deco architecture with an air of effervescence, the Goodtime Hotel is a perfect expression of joyful elegance.
If you’ve heard the name, it’s likely because it’s the much-hyped hotel that singer and music producer Pharrell Williams opened with David Grutman of Groot Hospitality (responsible for other major Miami hotspots like LIV and Story) on April 15, 2021. It’s the duo’s first hotel collaboration, and its concept centers on providing an escape complete with revelry, top-notch service, and, of course, nothing less than a good time.
Photo: Goodtime Hotel
The hotel is in South Beach, and just up the street from the pleasures of the sand and the sea. It’s also a block away from the South of Fifth (SoFi) neighborhood, meaning you can easily walk to many of the city’s most popular restaurants, bars, and clubs. If you’re able to snag a coveted reservation, head over to the recently opened Carbone for dinner or enjoy the delectable lobster eggs benedict at The Local House. And if you’re seeking an unforgettable culinary experience, make sure to get a table at Intimo, the Peruvian-Japanese Nikkei gastronomic venture of acclaimed Peruvian chef Juan Chipoco. One can find the original luxury beach club, Nikki Beach, a short distance away for DJs who play deep house beats for crowds of stylish revelers.
Art Deco meets Wes AndersonAmerican designer Ken Fulk and his team aced the design of the Goodtime Hotel — it feels elegant, cheerful, inviting, and retro all at the same time. The muted pink hues paired with bold tropical prints hearken back to the late 1950s and early 1960s (the aesthetic is a mix of Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’s Miami hotel in season three and Wes Anderson’s Grand Budapest Hotel). While the entire space is immaculately decorated, there are a few areas of the property that will particularly catch your eye.
Photo: Goodtime Hotel
The lobby’s hand-painted, jungle-themed mural makes you feel like you’ve arrived in a locale like Hawaii or Cartagena rather than South Beach. It’s bright with a playful, seemingly mismatched array of art and furniture that instills a sense of glee. The strong tones and patterns of the lobby are complemented by extravagant items and touches like brass palm tree sculptures, fringed tabletop lamps, and Art Deco plasterwork.
Photo: Goodtime Hotel
On the third floor, you’ll find Strawberry Moon, the hotel’s restaurant and pool club, but you’ll also find what is arguably the most Instagram-worthy room in the entire hotel: The Library. Soft pink curtains, walls, and velvet sofas with teal fringes fill the room and invite you to take a seat under the soft light of a wicker lamp in the shape of a giraffe. This room is a wealth of gorgeous design inspiration, so don’t be ashamed if you find yourself ordering the gold pineapple base round top table off Anthropologie in an attempt to get the look.
Sun and fun at Strawberry MoonStrawberry Moon is the hotel’s restaurant, and it’s also a 30,000-square-foot pool club. The Mediterranean menu has favorites like babaganoush, sheftalia, and kebabs. It’s a busy place but the hospitality doesn’t lapse, and the staff does their best to accommodate guests while they wait (don’t be surprised if the manager comes over to check in and offers up a complimentary drink for a delay). The food is top-notch, but that’s to be expected for the prices, with entrees starting at $32.
Photo: Goodtime Hotel
The drinks are delicious and served in the most beautiful display. Try the Purple Reign, a tequila cocktail made with Domaine de Canton, shōchū, yuzu, and butterfly pea lavender garnished with a small purple flower. If you like your beverages sweet, make sure to let the bartender know — they’ll accommodate your taste without a fuss. The signature cocktails are priced at $17 each, which is on par with most places in Miami.
Photo: Goodtime Hotel
The pool at Strawberry Moon has the energy and DJ talent to match a Las Vegas pool party. Yet it’s for a more sophisticated crowd — think Millennials who work hard and play hard instead of college students on spring break. Lined with pastel pink tiled walkways shaded by palm leaf sculptures, Strawberry Moon’s two pools are the perfect place to soak up some sun in South Beach. Reserve a cabana for a space to retreat and admire the stunning work of landscape architect Raymond Jungles.
From revelry to relaxationWhile there are few things better than imbibing colorful cocktails poolside at Strawberry Moon, if you’re looking for a quieter environment, head out to the Goodtime Hotel’s exclusive beach.
The beach is located at Seventh Street, and guests can use chaise lounges between Fifth and 14th streets. The beach club is serviced by Boucher Brothers, whose staff will set you up with a chaise lounge and umbrella. If you’re looking for something more active, the company will set you up with a watersport adventure.
Photo: Goodtime Hotel
After a long day of basking in the sun, shopping on Collins Avenue, or perusing art galleries in the area, escape back to your room at the Goodtime Hotel. The guest rooms are minimalist and small, but incorporate the hotel’s joyful design. Each room comes with a signature pink mock-rotary dial phone that makes for a great photo opp while donning the flowy patterned robe — a real Norman Rockwell-esque image. Guest rooms range from queen-bed accommodation to suites with beautiful views of the ocean. The rooms are complete with custom bedding, bespoke drapes, and Ortigia Sicilia bath amenities. You’ll wake up rested and ready to spend another day poolside at Strawberry Moon.
For a complete tour of the Goodtime Hotel, check out Architectural Digest’s video where owners Pharrell Williams and David Grutman give an all-access tour. 
The post Pharrell Williams’ Goodtime Hotel is a joyful escape from real life appeared first on Matador Network.
How to celebrate Pride all year long
Every June, the United States erupts in a riot of rainbows to celebrate Pride Month and commemorate the 1969 Stonewall Uprising — an act of resistance that sparked the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. The month-long panoply of parades, parties, and protests helps forge safe queer spaces, affirm identity, and fight against injustices plaguing LGBTQ+ Americans.
But the end of June doesn’t mean the end of Pride. Much like Stonewall, June is a starting point. Looking at the world through rainbow-colored glasses can be done year-round, and it’s the eleven months outside of June when taking part in Pride can have the greatest impact.
After all, participating in Pride isn’t only about marching down Main Street — it’s about creating support systems that combat intolerance and its effects. Whether you’re an ally or a member of the Alphabet Soup Mafia, here are five ways to celebrate and show solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community 365 days a year.
Editor’s note: We collaborated with Athletic Brewing Company to create this list of ways you can support the LGBTQ+ community year-round. Actions they take include employing members of the LGBTQ+ community in leadership within the company, sponsoring LGBTQ+ athletes, donating to organizations such as Athlete Ally, and funding important programming to create an always-on impact.
1. Show your support — however you’re able
Photo: Athletic Brewing
For all the progress LGBTQ+ Americans have made since 1969, ongoing prejudice profoundly affects queer folx today. This year, a record number of states passed discriminatory legislation targeting transgender youth. Trans women of color continue facing a nationwide epidemic of violence. Queer individuals struggle with adversity in healthcare, housing, education, and employment. Simply put, championing LGBTQ+ advocacy groups is the most direct way to support queer communities. That might mean spreading the word, donating your time,…or something as simple as drinking the right beer.
Case in point: Queer and trans athletes — from grade schools to the NFL — are in a moment of reckoning, and that’s why Athletic Brewing Company, a revolutionary leader in the non-alcoholic craft beer industry, teamed up with LGBTQ+ activist and rock climber Alex Johnson to create Rainbow Wall, a limited-release Blood Orange IPA celebrating Pride. 100% of Rainbow Wall’s profits benefited Athlete Ally, a national nonprofit providing LGBTQ+ athletes greater access and opportunity within sports communities. Athletic Brewing also assists similar programs by donating one percent of their total revenue to organizations building inclusive spaces in the worlds of craft beer and athletics.
While you may not have your own proceeds to give away, donations — monetary or otherwise — are one of myriad ways to benefit LGBTQ+ causes. Volunteering for organizations like the Trevor Project and Trans Lifeline supply queer youth and transgender individuals with life-saving services. Even the click of a button makes a difference! Following organizations like Athlete Ally and promoting Athletic Brewing’s campaigns for equality are both meaningful forms of activism. How cool is it that you can support and celebrate Pride just by cracking open a cold one?
2. Get outdoors — beyond Pride
Photo: Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock
For people intent on attending official Pride events, many US cities celebrate all things LGBTQ+ after June turns the page. San Diego hosts Pride every July; Eugene, Oregon, begins festivities in August; Miami Beach’s march hits South Florida’s streets in September; and Atlanta Pride heats up Georgia’s capital every October.
But Pride festivals only scratch the surface of queer-centric gatherings. In early summer, athletically minded Californians participate in AIDS/LifeCycle — a 545-mile bike ride through the state — to raise money for the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and the Los Angeles LGBT Center. Queer folx pitch tents in Wyoming’s Medicine Bow–Routt National Forest every August for Rendezvous, the area’s largest LGBTQ+ camping event. Snow bunnies add extra swish to the Wasatch slopes during February’s Utah Gay Ski Week, and lesbians flock to Palm Springs every October for The Dinah, a five-day music shindig. (Maybe bring along a case of Athletic’s beers?)
Virtual events, film fests, museum exhibits, and circuit parties abound throughout the year. You can start planning via The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association’s website and their non-exhaustive list of queer events.
3. Use your wallet wisely
Photo: The Gender Spectrum Collection
In a time when bakers can refuse to make cakes for gay weddings, it’s imperative to spend money at companies that share your values. LGBTQ-owned businesses offer an antidote to discrimination and build a bedrock upon which queer communities can grow.
Wherever you are in the world, patronize these spots, from 1851 Club in Arlington, Texas, to Adam’s Nest in Provincetown, Massachusetts, to any of the other thousands of bars, restaurants, and shops grounding the queer community across the country. They promote inclusion, employ people from marginalized groups, and uplift queer voices. And head’s up: They’re for everyone.
Note: Supporting vocal allies matters, too. Patronize a new restaurant thanks to the flags displayed on its facade. Introduce your friends to impactful products like Rainbow Wall. And when a business doesn’t align with your values, let your wallet do the talking.
4. Visit historic LGBTQ+ sites
Photo: Diego Grandi/Shutterstock
New York City’s Stonewall Inn is more than a gay bar — it’s the epicenter of queer liberation, and in 2016, it became the first LGBTQ+ site declared a US national monument. Honoring historic places like this is a cornerstone of Pride. Public spaces dedicated to LGBTQ+ Americans normalize queer lives, reduce stigma and shame, and offer a roadmap for building an equitable future.
Travelers can find iconic LGBTQ+ sites from San Francisco to Fire Island. In Washington, DC, the Rainbow History Project offers downloadable brochures for self-guided tours so visitors can learn about the city’s queer past. The NYC LGBT Historic Sites Project hosts an interactive digital map showcasing local areas of importance. For a list of federally protected LBGTQ heritage sites, visit the National Park Service website.
5. Make Pride a daily practice
Photo: WAYHOME Studio/Shutterstock
Pride can be very simple: Read books by LGBTQ+ authors. Watch interviews with LGBTQ+ leaders. Introduce yourself with your gender pronouns; add them to your social accounts and email signature. Remember to do your research — practices within the LGBTQ+ community are constantly evolving, and both queer people and their allies must take personal responsibility for staying up to date. Speak up against LGBTQ+ discrimination. Fly the Progress Pride Flag all year long.
Pride is not only a noun — it’s a verb, an active word that can be enjoyed daily. June may be over, but the best time to celebrate Pride is now.
The post How to celebrate Pride all year long appeared first on Matador Network.
August 2, 2021
If you liked Netflix’s ‘The Parisian Agency’ you’ll love these 8 luxurious Paris Airbnbs
Some watch Netflix’s The Parisian Agency for the drama going on in the Kretz family, others for Majo’s amazing sense of style, but what we’re obsessed with here at Matador Network are the properties showcased in the reality show. The Kretz’s, a Parisian family of seven that runs a luxury real estate agency from their mansion in the outskirts of the city, take you to some of the most luxurious houses and apartments for sale in the French capital. Most of us cannot afford owning a pied-à-terre with views of the Eiffel Tower, but luckily, Airbnb is here to save the day with jaw-dropping properties in Paris’ most sought-after neighborhoods. That way we get to live like the Kretz’s clients for a few days, but keep our hard-earned dollars to spend on delicious French pastries, museum visits, or espresso shots at the local cafés. Here are eight luxurious Paris Airbnbs for a French vacation like they show on TV.
We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.
1. Bright apartment steps away from the Moulin Rouge — Paris’ 18th arrondissement
Photo: Airbnb
Located at the bottom of the Montmartre Hill, just a few steps away from the iconic cabaret Moulin Rouge, this beautiful apartment can host two guests. While it’s small, it’s full of natural light and authentic Parisian charm, like herringbone-patterned parquet floors and a wrought-iron balcony. The Blanche metro station is just across the street, but because you’re in the 18th arrondissement, you can check out a multitude of iconic attractions on foot, like the Sacré Coeur basilica just a 20-minute walk up the Montmartre staircases, or the Café des Deux Moulins which gained international after being featured in the movie Amélie.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $95 per night
Photo: Airbnb
A former wood workshop that’s been entirely renovated, this Airbnb is a simple, tasteful, and comfortable option for your trip to Paris. The ground-floor loft is filled with light, and decorated with contemporary taste and elegance in mind. The Airbnb’s front door and windows don’t face the streets and its ongoing flow of pedestrians, instead it is located in a typically Parisian courtyard, keeping the noise and the nosy people out of your vacation. This Airbnb is very close to the Canal Saint-Martin, the perfect place for a romantic walk.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $83 per night
Photo: Airbnb
This large Parisian apartment located in the heart of the Marais neighborhood, one of the oldest in the city, transports you to another era. With timber beams on the ceiling, parquet floors, art, and antique furniture, this Airbnb is not only comfortable and beautiful, but it’s an experience in and out of itself. Former guests rave about the book and music library, the feeling of homeliness, and the apartment’s perfect location — it’s only a two-minute walk from the Pompidou Center, the leading European museum for modern and contemporary art.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $262 per night
Photo: Airbnb
This spacious and very elegant apartment is perfect for a trip to the French capital with family or friends as it can host up to eight guests in four bedrooms. Located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, a very chic, village-like neighborhood, you’ll be very close to iconic cafés Les Deux Magots and the Café de Flore, and just a 20-minute walk from the Musée d’Orsay. You and your loved ones will feel like you’re staying in the lap of luxury in this sophisticated Airbnb that features beautiful art, tasteful period furniture, a fireplace, classic Parisian herringbone parquet floors, and a large patio with views on the roofs of the city. The building is in a quiet private courtyard, so you won’t be bothered by the noises of the city.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $1501 per night
Photo: Airbnb
This beautiful apartment in the Latin Quarter has everything you’d want from your Paris accommodation: Herringbone parquet floors, a corner fireplace, elegant furniture, an eclectic art collection, and a touch of romanticism in the bedroom. And on top of being elegant, it’s also cozy, with large plush sofas and house plants that bring nature to this city lodging. The Latin Quarter is home to the famous bookstore Shakespeare and Company, the botanical garden, the Panthéon, and more, allowing you to see some of the best attractions in Paris just by taking a leisurely stroll.
Five guests, one bedroom
Price: $202 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Only a five-minute walk to the famous Champs-Elysées and with a view of the tip of the Eiffel Tower, this luxury apartment in the eight arrondissement of Paris is what dreams are made of. Extremely well appointed with parquet floors, period furniture, and a modern bathroom, this Paris Airbnb is as sophisticated as it gets. It’s also in the best location: Close to the Grand Palais, the Place de la Concorde, the Alexandre III Bridge, and many more must-see attractions.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $832 per night
Photo: Airbnb
If you come to Paris for the Eiffel Tower, this is the Airbnb you want to book. From the balcony of this apartment in the seventh arrondissement, you get the best view of the iconic French monument — it’s so close, you could almost touch it! Not only is it great by day, but at night, when the monument is fully illuminated, the spectacle is even more magical. Beyond the view, this Paris Airbnb is elegantly decorated with subtle tones and simple, yet beautiful furnishings, as well as a modern kitchen and bathrooms, for a comfortable and sophisticated stay in Paris.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $975 per night
Photo: Airbnb
This apartment in the second arrondissement is a unique offering. With timber beams running along a magnificent cathedral ceiling, this Paris Airbnb makes you feel like you’re in the belly of a ship. The fireplace and the furniture all work toward making guests feel cozy and at home. The kitchen is a work of art in black and while and the bathroom is a beautiful mix of colors. The apartment is within walking distance from the Louvre, and the Palais Royal.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $249 per night
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The cheapest and most expensive cities to stay in a 5-star hotel
If you’re looking for a luxurious five-star hotel, it might not be worth it to break the bank. If you have some flexibility with your destination, you could get that luxury experience in one of the world’s cheapest five-star hotels.
LuxuryHotel.com recently conducted research and rounded up the most expensive, and thankfully also the cheapest, five-star hotels. The study judged cities in over 100 countries and found the average price rounded out to about $236 per night. The luxurious city of Abu Dhabi offers the most five-star experiences, as 32 percent of the country’s hotels and resorts are rated five stars.
Claiming the top spot for the most expensive stay in the world is in the United States. A hotel in Los Angeles will run you an average of $675 per night. Paris, the city of romance, will cause a breakup with you and your wallet at $664 per night. In Orlando, expect to spend an average of $663. Other US cities in the top ten include Honolulu and Miami.
Los Angeles, USA — $675.84Paris, France — $664.53Orlando, USA — $663.11Honolulu, USA — $585.35Rome, Italy — $558.49Venice, Italy — $518.90Florence, Italy — $493.45Miami, USA — $477.89Milan, Italy — $473.65Toronto, Canada — $472.24That being said, if you’d like to get the best bang for your buck then take a trip to India, where the cities are home to seven out of 10 of the cheapest five-star hotels. You can get a room in Chennai, India, for as low as $47 per night. In India, Johor Bahru, Malaysia, and Bangalore tie for second place at $57 per night.
Here are the cheapest cities for a five-star luxury stay worldwide.
Chennai, India — $47Johor Bahru, Malaysia — $57Bangalore, India — $57Agra, India — $58Kolkata, India — $69New Deli, India — $69Mumbai, India — $72Jaipur, India — $78Phuket, Thailand — $79Cebu, Philippines — $79Wherever you decide to go, you might want to reference the full study to make sure you’re getting the most for your money.
The post The cheapest and most expensive cities to stay in a 5-star hotel appeared first on Matador Network.
The best cities in the world to study abroad in 2022
A recent study conducted by QS (Quacquarelli Symonds, the world’s leading provider of services, analytics, and insight to the global higher education sector) ranked the best cities to study abroad in 2022.
To be considered in the study, each city must have a population of over 250,000 and also have at least two universities featured in the most recent QS World University Rankings®. 125 cities were selected and looked at very closely to draw this ranking.
The ranking is based on six categories: university rankings, student mix, desirability, employer activity, affordability, and student view (“based on a survey of students and recent graduates around the world,” the website explains). The six categories are given equal weight when calculating the overall numerical ranking.
The top 10 best cities to study abroad:
1. London, United Kingdom2. Munich, Germany3. Seoul, South Korea3. Tokyo, Japan5. Berlin, Germany6. Melbourne, Australia7. Zurich, Switzerland8. Sydney, Australia9. Boston, United States9. Montreal, Canada9. Paris, France12. Edinburgh, Scotland
London got the top place for the second year in a row. Several cities scored the same, like Seoul and Tokyo and Boston, Montréal, and Paris holding the ninth spot. Boston is the only US city in the top 15 — New York City ranks 15th and San Francisco ranks 24th.
For the full ranking of the best cities to study abroad, visit the QS website.
The post The best cities in the world to study abroad in 2022 appeared first on Matador Network.
Carnival Cruise line launches first roller coaster at sea
As cruise ships are starting to set sail again, Carnival Cruise Line’s newest vessel Mardi Gras has set the cruise ship craziness bar higher. Just when you thought cruise ships couldn’t possibly offer any more attractions, they’ve upped the ante by creating the world’s first on-board roller coaster.
And they’ve put it on a very, very large ship. Mardi Gras is a 181,808-ton vessel that is 35 percent bigger than the biggest Carnival cruise ship. It can hold up to 6,630 passengers and it’s one of the top 10 biggest cruise ships ever built.
But it’s not about the size of the vessel; it’s about what they are putting inside this space. Mardi Gras is the first ship to build a working and running roller coaster on board. BOLT: The Ultimate Sea Coaster is an 800-foot long coaster that hits about 40 miles per hour, designed by the German company Maurer Rides.
“Every time you go, the ship will be moving to a different port. You’ll have a different view, a different moment, and then, of course, you control it yourself,” said Steve Boney, executive business development of Maurer Rides in a video made by Carnival Cruise Line.
The coaster is suspended above the ship’s outer decks, reaching 187 feet above the water while also giving 360 views of the ocean. The cart can carry up to two passengers, and those in the “driver” seat can control the speeds of the cart.
BOLT isn’t the only thriller and entertainment that’s aboard Mardi Gras. The ship is also home to Carnival’s biggest waterpark and other entertainments like Family Feud Live, in addition to new dining venues such as the first Emeril Lagasse restaurant at sea.
Mardi Gras made its first voyage on Saturday. If you want to test your stamina against sea sickness by not just being on a boat, but being on a roller coaster on a boat, then visit Carnival’s website for more information and book your next voyage.
The post Carnival Cruise line launches first roller coaster at sea appeared first on Matador Network.
Best bathrooms in America
Going to the bathroom in public is usually, at best, an uneventful occurrence. But some places around the country put a little extra effort into their restrooms by using art, design, and sensory experiences to make using the bathroom as much a part of your visit as anything else. The business products wizards at Cintas give an annual award for best restroom in America, and just released their nominees for 2021. You can take a look and vote for your favorite right here. But before you do, take a look at the nominees and see which one you’d most like to stay in a little longer than you should.
1. Fitness center Core24 GVL — Greenville, South CarolinaPhoto: CINTAS CORPORATION
Men have long suspected that women’s restrooms are secretly filled with ornate decor and plush furnishings, and Core24 goes a long way toward confirming those suspicions. The women’s restroom at the Core 24 GVL fitness center combines art and street culture, influenced by art, design, and music. The bathroom has a spray-painted mural and a large flower wall, both of which serve as the perfect backdrop for pre-or post-workout selfies.
2. Fancy Flush mobile bathroom — Santa Rosa, California
Photo: CINTAS CORPORATION
Most porta potties are best avoided, but Fancy Flush is likely the most ritzy mobile bathroom you’ve ever encountered. Inspired by tiny homes with a French Country aesthetic, these bathrooms feature composite stone, board, and batten siding, boxwood hedges, hand painted faux wood doors, and wrought iron finishes like handles, sconces, and stairs. The interior is composed of two spacious restroom suites with vessel sinks, contactless faucets, air conditioning, heat, mood music, dimmable lighting, and a hospitality tray with hand towels and other toiletries. It’s like being in a five-star hotel bathroom — except it’s a porta potty.
3. JFK Airport’s Terminal 4 — New York City, New York
Photo: CINTAS CORPORATION
Airport bathrooms usually fall into the same category as porta potties (i.e. steer clear). The newly-renovated bathrooms at JFK Airport’s Terminal 4, however, are part of the Port Authority’s latest initiative to make the airport world-class. Located on the east side of the Customs Arrival Hall, the restrooms are 900 square feet with an entrance featuring black-painted glass with graphics of famous New York City landmarks. The interior features white terrazzo flooring, marbleized walls, and wall sconces that combine to create an elegant feel in an unlikely environment.
4. Nan Thai Fine Dining — Atlanta, Georgia
Photo: CINTAS CORPORATION
The 14x Four Diamond Award-Winning restaurant is, apparently, known for more than just its food. The restrooms here have been described as “zen-like,” with red and gold interiors and a feeling of luxury. The modern design is complemented by candles and folded towels.
5. Planet Word Museum — Washington, DC
Photo: CINTAS CORPORATION
Planet Word is a free museum in Washington DC, dedicated to promoting a love of words, language, and reading. That mission extends to the restrooms, too. The bathroom is full of fun, educational easter eggs, like showing how to ask “Where is the bathroom?” in multiple languages, demonstrating the different names for animal waste, and getting creative with euphemisms.
6. Pump House — Kannapolis, North Carolina
Photo: CINTAS CORPORATION
Aptly named, the Pump House in Kannapolis, a stand-alone bathroom, is one of the best in the country. Located in the middle of a tree-lined street, the Pump House is surrounded by water fountains, public art sculptures, and murals. There’s also a putting green, entertainment stages, and inspirational quotes from children’s books to fill out this inspiring public space.
7. Steamboat Springs — Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Photo: CINTAS CORPORATION
This stand-alone public bathroom in downtown Steamboat Springs is heated year-round, making it perfect for the ski season. It was built using unique design elements for maximum visual appeal, sporting a butterfly-style two-pitch roof, and a facade with steel cladding, board from concrete walls, and glass blocks.
8. The Fed Community restaurant — Clarkston, Michigan
Photo: CINTAS CORPORATION
The restrooms at the Fed Community are bright and airy, mixing colors, patterns, and textures. They also feature positive affirmations to give patrons a mood boost, which is always welcome.
9. Two Cities Pizza — Cincinnati, Ohio
Photo: CINTAS CORPORATION
Ironically, the two cities in question here are New York and Chicago — neither of which are the home of this establishment. Those two iconic pizza cities, however, do feature prominently in the aesthetic of this concept restaurant. Furbished like a New York City subway station, the bathroom has a subway platform, train car, station stops playing over the speaker, subway handles above the sinks, and graffiti on the walls.
10. William S. Craycraft Park — Mission Viejo, California
Photo: CINTAS CORPORATION
Restrooms in public parks aren’t typically the cleanest or most appealing, but this custom restroom stands apart. The large, multiple-occupancy restroom includes 10 toilets, two urinals, and six sinks that can accommodate up to 540 users per hour (hopefully not all at the same time). The exterior is designed to match the local architecture, with walls upgraded with tile, brick,and stained wood siding to create a high-end look. There are also LED barn-style outdoor wall lights to give the restroom a more modern, glitzy look.
A version of this article was previously published on August 17, 2018, and was updated on August 2, 2021, with more information.
More like thisNewsThese new, colorful outdoor toilets in Tokyo are completely transparentThe post These are the 10 best public bathroom in the US, and you’ll want to pee in all of them appeared first on Matador Network.
Disneyland’s Jungle Cruise has now removed negative indigenous depictions
The Disney franchise has come under fire quite a few times regarding racial depictions of its characters in its movies, rides, and other theme park attractions. In January this year, the corporation announced that they would rethink its Jungle Cruise ride after heavy criticism of the attraction’s racially insensitive stereotypes of Indigenous people.
A day before the ride’s 66th birthday, on July 16, the attraction reopened in Disneyland in California with an updated version and the removal of what Disney called “negative depictions of native people.” The original ride took visitors through jungle scenes with characters who were portrayed as primitive and threatening. Now in its place are figures of chimpanzees swatting away butterflies and a safari group stuck in a tree.
The additions come as no surprise, the corporation has been under scrutiny regarding the ride for quite some time. The new version also coincides with the upcoming release of a “Jungle Cruise” movie starring Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt on July 28.
According to a press release from Disney, the attraction at Disney World in Florida will also be completed this summer. This is one step the parks in the US are taking towards making sure they remain not only relevant but also reflect diversity and be culturally sensitive.
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Road trip to all US national parks
RANDY OLSON, a computer science and engineering Ph.D. candidate at Michigan State University, is a man who likes to design road trips. He has previously organized the ultimate US road trip and the best cross-Canada journey and, this time, Olson created an itinerary that would allow travelers to see every single national park in the 48 contiguous states without wasting any time.
Since Olson’s map was released in 2016, four new national parks have been added to the system. So Matador added them to a new map, creating the ultimate national park road trip.
Here is Olson’s original map form 2016:
Map: Randy Olson / Google
This ultimate national park road trip covers 16,847 miles and it would take you about two months to complete the loop if you’re going “at a breakneck speed.” In other words, you’d better take a few months off work before getting on the road.
Here’s Matador’s new ultimate national park road trip map:
Here’s a list of all the national parks included in this new itinerary. Note that you can start the trip at any stop in the loop.
Grand Canyon National Park, ArizonaPetrified Forest National Park, ArizonaSaguaro National Park, ArizonaGuadalupe Mountains National Park, TexasCarlsbad Caverns National Park, New MexicoWhite Sands National Park, New MexicoBig Bend National Park, TexasHot Springs National Park, ArkansasMammoth Cave National Park, KentuckyGateway Arch National Park, MissouriIndiana Dunes National Park, IndianaGreat Smoky Mountains National Park, TennesseeEverglades National Park, FloridaDry Tortugas National Park, FloridaBiscayne National Park, FloridaCongaree National Park, South CarolinaShenandoah National Park, VirginiaNew River Gorge National Park, West VirginiaAcadia National Park, MaineCuyahoga Valley National Park, OhioIsle Royale National Park, MichiganVoyageurs National Park, MinnesotaTheodore Roosevelt National Park, North DakotaBadlands National Park, South DakotaWind Cave National Park, South DakotaRocky Mountain National Park, ColoradoGreat Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, ColoradoBlack Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, ColoradoMesa Verde National Park, ColoradoCanyonlands National Park, UtahArches National Park, UtahCapitol Reef National Park, UtahBryce Canyon National Park, UtahZion National Park, UtahGreat Basin National Park, NevadaGrand Teton National Park, WyomingYellowstone National Park, WyomingGlacier National Park, MontanaNorth Cascades National Park, WashingtonMount Rainier National Park, WashingtonOlympic National Park, WashingtonCrater Lake National Park, OregonRedwood National and State Parks, CaliforniaLassen Volcanic National Park, CaliforniaYosemite National Park, CaliforniaKings Canyon National Park, CaliforniaSequoia National Park, CaliforniaPinnacles National Park, CaliforniaChannel Islands National Park, CaliforniaJoshua Tree National Park, CaliforniaDeath Valley National Park, CaliforniaTo find out more about this particular itinerary and Olson’s research, visit his website.
A version of this article was previously published on May 26, 2017, and was updated on August 2, 2021, with more information.
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Guide to Hawaii farmers markets
There’s nothing quite like plucking fresh, juicy guavas from the trees on an island summer day or sitting down for a traditional Hawaiian plate lunch al fresco. Add live music, and you’ve got the perfect way to while away the day — which is to say, Hawaii farmers markets aren’t quick errands. They’re experiences to cherish, immerse yourself in, and enjoy.
Of course, checking out a farmers market on your next visit to Hawaii is just plain fun, too. But beyond the joy-filled day it guarantees, it’s an incredible way to show support for the islands, promote a sustainable lifestyle, and share the spirit of malama (meaning “to care for”). Buying fresh, buying local, and supporting agriculture is a win for everyone.
“Farmers markets are known for carrying the freshest seasonal produce available,” says Tylun Pang, executive chef at Fairmont Kea Lani. “The flavors that come from a local harvest have no comparison to something that was shipped or stored. Our farmers work endlessly with integrity, care, and respect for the land. I couldn’t imagine what our island communities would be like without them.”
Not only are you giving the island economy a boost by supporting local farmers, but you’ll get a boost, too. You’ll discover new foods — if you’ve never seen breadfruit, that’s about to change! — eat like the locals, experience the community, and feel good about giving back. Here are a few farmers markets to visit — to immerse yourself in, to cherish — on your next Hawaii vacation.
MAUI
Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority
On Tuesdays, make the Wailea Village Farmers Market your first stop. Bag up the day’s fresh catch (if you get there early), every kind of produce your kitchen can fit, and prepared snacks and meals made with local ingredients. Think dragon-fruit smoothies, acai bowls, and delightful fresh juices. Afterwards, stroll around the restaurants and shops or play a round of golf at the nearby course.
When Saturday hits, get yourself to the Upcountry Farmers Market, one of the island’s largest and oldest — it’s been running for 51 years. Early birds can score fresh fish; later birds should beeline for the turmeric elixirs, fresh poke, macadamia nut dips, and fresh coconuts, to name a few. You can even buy locally made hats, crafted by Maui Alpaca and Kula Cottontail Farm, and scarves made from local alpaca wool and angora rabbit fur. (Which will come in handy if you visit Haleakala National Park’s summit; it gets chilly up there!)
People also flock to Kula Country Farms, going strong since the 1940s, for even more reasons than quality fare and a sense of community history. For starters, the view isn’t too shabby — this plot of land gives you a dreamy look at the entire central valley of Maui, including Maalaea Bay and Kahului Bay. Secondly, there’s always something fun going on. You might be surprised (and delighted) to find strawberries on the slopes of Haleakala, and you can pick your own when they’re in season; in fall, there are hundreds of volcano-grown pumpkins to choose from. At the small enclosed farm stand, pick out jams, honey fresh from the farm’s hive, fresh breads, dressings, and marinades. Don’t forget Maui’s famous sweet onions, heirloom tomatoes, and persimmons. And, may we suggest buying protea flowers to fancy up your hotel room?
Tip: Pair the day’s market experience with a breakfast or lunch at Oo Farm, where you can search for chameleons hanging out in the coffee plants, purchase locally made coffee, learn how the farm operates, and — of course — sit down to a delicious farm-to-table meal.
Learn more about Maui farmers markets.
KAUAI
Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority/Heather Goodman
On the south shore on Wednesdays, visit Kauai Culinary Market at The Shops at Kukuiula. With live Hawaiian music in the background, you’ll scour everything from fruit, flowers, and produce to locally raised meats, ready-to-eat culinary treats from local chefs, and lots of handcrafted gifts made on the island. Talk story with local farmers — they may offer up a cooking tip or two — stop by the beer and wine garden, and take notes at the cooking demos. Afterwards, do some shopping. It’s hard to go wrong here, for sure.
On Saturdays, start the day with a cup of Moloaa Bay Coffee at the Kauai Community Market, then load up on jams, poi, kulolo, and Hawaiian plate lunches from Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. There’s also Kunana Dairy goat cheese, spices from Salty Wahine, and fresh baked goods that smell too good to pass up. Hint: If you need a gift to take back home, Tropical Flowers Express — you can catch them at the community market — ships to the mainland.
Last but not least, the Kapaa Sunshine Market — the island’s all-encompassing term for farmers markets — is held every Wednesday at Kapaa Beach Park. When the bell chimes at 3pm sharp, the gates open and it’s off to the races for art, fresh flowers, organic produce, and artisan crafts. Afterward, it’s off to the beach!
OAHU
Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority
On Saturday mornings and Tuesday nights, meet farmers and food producers at the Kapiolani Community College Farmers Market and go home with local honey, handmade pasta, aqua-cultured seafood, scones, and oatcakes. Keep an eye out for different restaurants each week that prepare drool-worthy plates, too.
Located in the heart of Honolulu, Kakaako Farmers Market — taking place on Saturdays — features local vendors, fresh fruits and vegetables, and, of course, delectable treats. Think half-moon dumplings, Hawaii iced lattes, fresh pineapple, and other ultra-local goodies to fuel your body and spirit for a day in the city.
Beyond the markets, there are a few more spots you should put on your Oahu list for supporting local farmers:
Make time for a farm-to-table tour at Kahumana Organic Farm. Treat yourself to a banana-coconut bar, lilikoi cheesecake, and pesto-veggie pasta. Or pick up a CSA (community supported agriculture) box, full of fresh fruits and veggies, to prepare on your own — and see how Hawaii-fresh is its own flavor.Mao Farms, one of the largest certified organic farms in Hawaii, connects young folks to the land through the aloha aina tradition, which means “love of the land.” Here, they grow more than 40 different varieties of fruits and veggies.Similarly, singer-songwriter Jack Johnson and his wife Kim started the Kokua Hawaii Foundation years ago to teach people about where their food comes from and why it makes sense to grow your own produce. At the Kokua Learning Farm, in the heart of Haleiwa on the North Shore of Oahu, residents and visitors can purchase low-waste lifestyle products, vintage goodies, and local produce at the Kokua General Store and AINA Farm Stand.Learn more about Oahu farmers markets.
ISLAND OF HAWAII
Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority/Dana Edmunds
Start the day with a Hawaii Island-grown coffee or tea at the Waimea Town Market on Saturdays, if you’re on the north side of the island. Follow your nose to the fresh-baked pastries and tarts; peruse the artisan wares, like locally produced wool, crafts, and ceramics; and buy some raw honey to mail home as gifts. When you’re finished, nab a picnic table with a view of Maunakea.
On the other (east) side of Hawaii Island, there are two things you’ll notice immediately about the Hilo Farmers Market: It’s massive (there are typically more than 100 vendors) and it’s popular (no matter what day you visit, there will be a crowd). It’s also open seven days a week, which means there’s plenty of time to search for treasures from aloha shirts and ukelele to any food you’re craving. Stock up for a day of hiking at nearby Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll get to experience the origin story of the islands’ rich, volcanic farmlands. And this way, the lava’s bounty will already be packed in your bag.
Learn more about Island of Hawaii farmers markets.
The post Supporting Hawaii’s local farmers is the most important thing you can do on your trip appeared first on Matador Network.
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