Matador Network's Blog, page 621
July 26, 2021
Dua Lipa stayed at the snake-shaped Airbnb featured on ‘The World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals’
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.
Singer Dua Lipa decided to take a break from her incredibly busy lifestyle and slither away to a vacation at an enviable destination.
Just outside of Mexico City, Quetzalcoatl’s Nest is no ordinary Airbnb — it’s an immense property shaped like the mythological snake Quetzalcoatl. Quetzalcoatl was an Aztec deity also known as “the feathered serpent.” Previously featured on this year’s The World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals, the extravagant property is quickly becoming one of Mexico City’s most recognizable.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by DUA LIPA (@dualipa)
Javier Senosiain designed Quetzalcoatl’s Nest, a large and unique complex of apartments. One of those apartments, suitable for six guests (four bedrooms, eight beds, and 3.5 baths), is available for rent on Airbnb for $355 per night.
Photo: Airbnb
Guests can wander the surrounding park with botanical gardens and lakes, and they should make sure to visit the property’s greenhouse that’s made of colorful stained glass for an unbelievable experience. Dua Lipa certainly looks like she enjoyed herself at this very unusual Airbnb.
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The difference between single malt and blended Scotch whisky
When it comes to countries famous for whiskey (or whisky if you’re outside of the US and Ireland), few can match up to the reputation and history of Scotland. The first recorded production of Scotch dates back to 1494, when King of Scotland James IV declared monks were allowed to make aqua vitae (“water of life”) in the financial Exchequer Rolls. A lot has changed since then — in fact, you probably wouldn’t recognize that spirit as whisky in a modern sense.
Today, Scotch brands are some of the most recognizable in the world. Names like Johnnie Walker, Macallan, and Dewar’s can be found in the back bars of just about everywhere. Then there are the names that are hard-to-pronounce from an American perspective that are no less loved, like Laphroaig, Bunnahabhain, and Bruichladdich.
The many (many) options of modern Scotch can be broken down into two categories: blended Scotch or single malt.
All Scotch must be made and matured entirely in Scotland from water, malted barley, whole grains, and yeast, according to the Scotch Whisky Association. Sometimes the barrels previously held bourbon before being used in Scotland, sometimes sherry, and sometimes something else entirely, but the spirit is always aged for at least three years.
What is single malt Scotch?
Photo: Bowmore
Single malt Scotch comes from a single distillery. It uses only a mash from malted barley that’s distilled in a pot still with no distillates from other cereal grains (more on that when it comes to blended whiskies). Single malt doesn’t mean that there’s not some blending going on, however, as single malt isn’t just from one year’s harvest of barley or one barrel (the latter would be labeled as a single barrel). The blending instead is a blend of solely malted barley from one distillery.
The flavor you’ll get from a single malt Scotch whisky is a concrete expression of what a distillery makes. That means getting a distinct bottle, but it also means a lot of variation between brands. In general, you can somewhat know what to expect in terms of flavor depending on which part of Scotland the distillery is located.
There’s Highland, which is in the north of the country and typically has smoky and full-bodied whiskies, like Glenmorangie and Ardmore. Below that region is Lowland, which typically has whiskies with less of a smoke flavor but plenty of herbaceous and sweet honeysuckle notes. Glenkinchie and Auchentoshan are two notable Lowland distilleries. The Speyside region in the northeastern part of Scotland is known for fruity whiskies with only a little smoke influence at most from distilleries like Glenlivet, Glenrothes, and Glenfiddich. The Isle of Arran is a small island off the western coast of the Scottish mainland with a few distilleries, most notably Arran Single Malt Whiskies.
Then there’s Islay, which is famous for full-bodied and powerful whiskies with lots of smokiness from the peat used to dry the barley. Islay single malts are some of the most popular single malt Scotch whiskies because of the big flavors in each bottle. Bowmore, Laphroaig, Lagavulin, Ardbeg, and Bruichladdich all make notable whiskies that are true to the peaty smoke and layers of flavor that Islay is famous for.
What is blended whisky?
Photo: MarinaTr/Shutterstock
Single malt Scotches may get the most attention from whisky fans, but the vast majority of Scotch that people drink is blended — as much as 90 percent, by some measures. A blended whisky is exactly what it sounds like: a mix of multiple whiskies put together to achieve a flavor profile that highlights certain flavors. Unlike the blends in a single malt that come from a single distillery, however, blended Scotch uses whisky from multiple distilleries to create a balance of flavors.
Another thing that sets blended Scotch apart from single malt is the use of grains other than barley like corn, rye, or wheat. The malt and grain whiskies together make the final flavor profile. The most famous blended Scotches come from Johnnie Walker, Dewar’s, J&B, and Chivas Regal. These blends are often made from a mix of distilleries from around Scotland that also release single malts.
It takes a skilled master blender with a nose and palate for creating consistent blends to make a good bottle. Each master blender has a tall task — Johnnie Walker blends can use whiskies from more than two dozen distilleries owned by the brand’s parent company Diageo.
Regardless of whether you’re drinking a single malt or a blended Scotch, one thing is true: You’re always getting a taste of Scotland.
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Kansai is one of the most underrated regions of Japan. Here’s why.
Almost all travelers to Japan visit Kyoto — and it’s no wonder why, given its millennia of history and timeless scenery on offer. Whether you’re strolling amid the ancient temples of Higashiyama or through the cinematic bamboo groves of Arashiyama, few places represent Japan more iconically than its erstwhile capital.
On your next trip to Japan, think of Kyoto not (just) as your destination, but as the place where new journeys begin. Take advantage of the city’s central location within the Kansai region to discover lesser-known treasures of western Japan. Even if you hadn’t heard of the region before you stumbled upon this article, it’s a name you won’t soon forget. Kansai is the cultural, natural and spiritual heart of Japan, with a diverse array of attractions and experiences. From the towering Himeji Castle, futuristic Osaka, to the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, here’s some of the highlights in the Kansai region of Japan.
How long should you spend in the Kansai region?Assuming you spend between two to three days exploring Kyoto-proper, as most travelers do, we’d recommend devoting around a week of your trip to the Kansai region. Some travelers will choose to base themselves in Kyoto the entire time, visiting all surrounding destinations as day trips, be they individual attractions or huge cities.
Other travelers take a slightly different approach, spending a few days in (and take a few day trips from) Kyoto, then migrating to a different destination in Kansai for the rest of their time in the region. For example, many visitors to Japan enjoy the contrast of Osaka’s neon lights and bustling, urban energy after a few days in comparatively quieter Kyoto. From destinations to cultural spots, here are some of the highlights of the Kansai region.
1. Nara
Photo: NH/Shutterstock
Nara has gained fame among visitors to Japan for two primary reasons. In addition to its large and photogenic population of urban deer, it’s also home to some of Japan’s oldest surviving wooden architecture, including the Tofuku-ji five-story pagoda, and Todai-ji, which houses Japan’s largest bronze Buddha. Accessible in less than an hour from Kyoto by train, Nara is an easy half or full-day trip. Nara is beautiful year-round, but particularly amid late November’s autumn colors and the cherry blossoms of early April.
(TIP: If you want to further supercharge your Nara day trip, stop in the tea-producing city of Uji on the way back. In addition to enjoying a fresh cup of matcha, you can visit Byodo-in, the temple pictured on the back of the ten yen coin.)
2. Himeji Castle
Photo: Pajor Pawel/Shutterstock
First constructed in the 14th-century under the patronage of a local Samurai lord, Himeji Castle is today Japan’s most iconic (and arguably its most beautiful) feudal castle. Its current construction, which reflects expansive renovations during the 17th century, centers upon its highest tower or tenshu, one of only 12 that still stand intact. Himeji Castle is particularly famous during cherry blossom season when hundreds of trees planted within its walls and around its moat provide a pink frame for its white facade, which has earned it the nickname “Heron Castle.” Himeji Castle is around an hour west of Kyoto, in Hyogo prefecture and can be reached via Shinkansen bullet train.
3. Lake Biwa
Photo: beeboys/Shutterstock
Another great place to see castles near Kyoto is along the shores of Lake Biwa, just east of the city in Shiga prefecture. The lakefront castles of Nagahama and Hikone (the latter of which, like Himeji, features an original tenshu) are especially appealing. Other attractions around Lake Biwa include the old merchant town of Omihachiman, the “floating” torii gate of the Shirahige Shrine and Enryaku-ji temple. The temple is perched atop Mt. Hiei, which towers between Kyoto and Shiga.
4. OsakaPhoto: Richie Chan/Shutterstock
The massive city of Osaka is, along with Kyoto, the nucleus of the Kansai region. Located around 30 minutes southwest of Kyoto by train, Osaka is diverse and cosmopolitan. You can begin the day at spiritual Shitenno-ji temple, have a picnic lunch beneath towering Osaka Castle and end it eating street foot amid the strobing lights of Dotonbori pedestrian streets. While some travelers prefer to stay in Osaka for a few days instead of just visiting on a day trip, its proximity to Kyoto makes either of these options easily doable.
5. Kyotango
Photo: Extarz/Shutterstock
Although Kyoto city sits reasonably close to the sea, few travelers realize that Kyoto prefecture is actually home to beautiful beach scenery, specifically in the Kyotango region which is located about two hours north of Kyoto Station via limited express train. Upon arriving here, a multitude of options await you. During colder months when swimming is not necessarily possible, you can marvel at the Amanohashidate “Bridge to Heaven,” which locals say resembles a dragon, or take a boat trip through the traditional funaya houses (boathouses) of Ine Fishing Village. If the weather is warmer and sunnier, set your towel out on the golden sands of Kotohikihama or Sunagata beaches.
6. Kobe
Photo: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock
One quirky fact about Kobe is that while this city is known around the globe for its beef, the cows are actually raised on outlying Japanese islands such as Awaji and Oki and take their name after having been slaughtered in Kobe. With this being said, a luxurious Wagyu dinner (ideally served Teppanyaki style) is far from the only thing to do in Kobe. The city is home to Japan’s largest Chinatowns, Nankin-Machi, which is an exciting cultural experience. Another must-see is Kobe Port Tower, which lights up at water level and the ropeway up Mt.Rokko which treats visitors to a view over the cityscape.
(TIP: Since Kobe sits between Kyoto and Himeji, a great all-day trip involves spending the morning at Himeji Castle, then stopping in Kobe for the afternoon and/or evening on the way back.)
7. Mt. Koya and the Kumano Kodo
Photo: cowardlion/Shutterstock
Kansai’s hilly topography makes it perfect for hiking, particularly in spiritual Wakayama prefecture which sits between two and three hours from Kyoto by train. Here, you have two basic choices. Most travelers head to Mt. Koya, an esoteric Buddhist settlement founded in the 8th century by a Kyoto monk known posthumously as Kukai. You can hike all the way to the top from Kudoyama station, or ride a funicular railway up and traipse amid the Danjo Garan temple complex or through the mysterious Okunoin cemetery. Another option is to hike along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage, a multi-day route that snakes through the mountains, starting on the western end of the Kii peninsula in Kii-Tanabe and ending out east in Shingu, the closest city to the stunning waterfall pagoda of Nachi Taisha shrine.
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The most amazing camping spots near Sydney that you won’t want to leave
Most travelers in Australia visit Sydney. Luckily for nature-lovers, Sydney is surrounded by lots of national parks that are perfect for hiking and camping. From the untouched beaches of Bouddi National Park, to the vast valleys of the Blue Mountains, to the crisp, cold waterfalls of the Southern Highlands, this area of New South Wales is bursting with nature’s beauty.
Australians generally love spending time outdoors, and camping is a very popular pastime among locals and travelers alike. Most of the national parks in NSW have amazing campsites for a weekend away. Some of them even have barbecues and hot water showers. So if sleeping between the eucalyptus trees and waking up to the songs of kookaburras and cockatoos sounds like fun, here are a handful of the best camping near Sydney. Each of these campsites are within a three-hour drive of the city. It would be wise to plan your camping trip at least a week in advance so the campsites don’t sell out. In the busy summer months of December to February, plan two weeks to one month in advance.
It is important to note that all campsites in NSW require a booking due to COVID-19. While we’ve listed our very favorite from among several amazing campsites, you can find the full extensive list of campsites at NSW National Parks website.
Royal National Park
Photo: KarenHBlack/Shutterstock
This is the easiest camping spot to reach from Sydney. The Royal National Park is located directly south of the city, so it’s less than a one-hour drive.
Once you arrive, you’ll get to soak in some of the most incredible coastal views in New South Wales. You’ll find jagged white cliffs, naturally symmetrical rock pools, and waterfalls that tumble into the sea. The entire length of the coast has a walking trail, so you can spend a few days hiking along the coast and camping at North Era Campground.
North Era Campground
North Era Campground is the only official camping spot along the coast of the Royal National Park. It is very remote, reachable only by a 30-minute hike. Park at Garie Beach, then carry all your supplies along the walking trail to the south. Once you climb over the big hill, you’ll forget about all the huffing and puffing you’ve just done because you’ll be looking at the serene little oasis of North Era Campground.
Just down the other side of the hill is a smooth patch of grass framed by forest on one side and ocean on the other. The campsite is just a free-for-all, with no numbered sites or rules. Set up your tent anywhere you like. But keep in mind, there are absolutely no facilities here so you’ll have to pack all your own water and food.
After setting up camp, enjoy having no responsibilities and no connection to the outside world. There is no phone reception, and in my experience, the campground is usually pretty empty. Spend the day snorkeling, swimming, and walking along the rocky coastline. Spend the evening foraging for firewood in the woods and then enjoy a campfire on the beach. Fall asleep to complete silence, except for the soft sound of waves lapping the shore.
Fee: $12 entry fee to park at Garie Beach. This campsite is so remote that you don’t really have to book in advance, but if you want to you can via the NSW National Parks website.
Facilities: None
Photo: VarnaK/Shutterstock
Another one of the best places to camp near Sydney is the Blue Mountains. The air here is incredibly crisp and clean, the scenery is lush and wild, and the campgrounds are free and easily accessible. The Blue Mountains are just a one- to two-hour drive west of Sydney, and the area is divided into smaller sections. In my opinion, the two best areas are Katoomba and Blackheath.
Katoomba is the most popular and touristy area of the Blue Mountains, but that shouldn’t deter you from staying here. Katoomba is a charming town full of adorable cafes and nice restaurants. And the natural scenery here is popular for a reason.
From the towering rock formations of the Three Sisters, to the triple-tiered, 614-foot-tall Wentworth Falls, to the magical and peaceful Leura Cascades, there is no shortage of natural attractions and photo opportunities near Katoomba. Combine the sights with an amazing weekend of camping in the area and you’re sure to fall in love with the Blue Mountains.
Murphys Glen Campground
Though Murphys Glen Campground is a 30-minute drive east of Katoomba, it is one of the best camping spots in the area. It doesn’t have many facilities, but that is all part of the off-grid experience. In the Blue Mountains, many campgrounds require a hike. But this one is just over a half-mile walk from the parking lot. You’ll still want to pack light, but the serenity you’ll find at Murphys Glen Campground is worth the walk.
With a wide and flat camping area padded with leaves from the surrounding trees, it’s easy to find a comfortable spot to set up a tent. My favorite thing about camping in the Blue Mountains is the abundance of stars, which are always visible on clear nights due to the lack of light pollution.
Fee: $6 booking fee, book online here.
Facilities: Toilets only
Ingar Campground
Ingar Campground is very close to Murphys Glen Campground, so the scenery and proximity to the best Blue Mountains attractions are similar. The main difference is that Ingar Campground is not easily accessible to vehicles, and it is set on the banks of Ingar Creek. If you’re looking for a very remote place and you love hiking, this may be the campground for you.
You’ll have to park your car on Queen Elizabeth Drive and then hike six miles along the Ingar Trail with all your gear. When you arrive, you can have a fire and eat your meals at the wooden picnic tables. Swim in the creek and treat your body to an invigorating dose of cold water. In the hot, dusty, Australian summer, this swimming hole feels like heaven.
Fee: $6 booking fee, book online here.
Facilities: Fire pits and picnic tables
Photo: Phillip Wittke/Shutterstock
This western area of the Blue Mountains has just as many breathtaking views as Katoomba, but it’s less touristy. Blackheath is a quiet town with some colorful street art, a handful of cafes, and an antique shop. The surrounding wilderness has some of the best hiking trails and lookout points in the Blue Mountains.
Blackheath Glen Reserve
Located just an 11-minute drive away from Blackheath, this campsite feels much more isolated than it actually is. It’s very easy to reach; all you have to do is drive along Megalong Road until you reach the turnoff for Blackheath Glen Reserve. Park in the dirt parking lot, then set up camp anywhere in the grassy, tree-shaded area. The camping spots aren’t labeled, and you don’t need to walk far from your vehicle. So this is one of the most convenient and accessible camping spots in the Blue Mountains.
Once you’re all settled in, you get to spend the night in the heart of the Megalong Valley. Listen for the squawking of cockatoos and gaze up at the stars. Make a small campfire and roast marshmallows. You may find a few other campers here, who are most likely outdoorsy locals preparing to do some hiking around Blackheath. This is the perfect place to camp before a day of hiking the Grand Canyon Trail or visiting attractions like Govett’s Leap Lookout and Pulpit Rock.
Fee: Free. There is no prior booking available, but you can visit this website for more info.
Facilities: None
Photo: Mona K-R/Shutterstock
About 1.5 hours north of Sydney on the Central Coast of NSW lies Bouddi National Park. Known for its unique rock formations made of layered sandstone, its flora and fauna, and its lengthy, coastal hiking trail, Bouddi National Park is an amazing getaway from the city.
Bouddi National Park is stunning at all times of the year. In the winter, it’s common to see whales breaching off the coast as they migrate along eastern Australia. In the spring, you can inhale the sweet scent of wildflowers as you hike through the forest. And in the summer, when Australians really seem to come alive, you can enjoy the social atmosphere around the communal campsite barbeques. Grill some food, drink a few cold beers, and chat with some friendly locals around the “barbie”.
Putty Beach Campground
This is the ideal campground for anyone who wants to complete the five-mile Bouddi Coastal Walk. The famous hike begins right at Putty Beach, so it’s convenient to camp near the start of the trail. With 20 campsites in total, this campground has a social vibe where everyone is laid-back and friendly. The parking lot is also right beside the grassy campground, so you won’t have to walk more than a minute to your site.
Putty Beach Campground is extremely organized and well-equipped. You have all the amenities you could need, and the campground is just steps away from the beach. So after swimming and surfing all day, you can shower and cook dinner easily before falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing. Just watch out for the bush turkeys who like to wander through the campsite and scavenge for food.
Fee: $34 for two people
Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables, barbeques, drinking water, outdoor beach showers
Little Beach Campground
A more secluded camping option in Bouddi National Park is Little Beach Campground. With only six campsites and fewer facilities than Putty Beach Campground, it will leave you feeling more immersed in nature. Make sure you bring all your own water as there is none available here.
The campground is set in a little cove next to the shores of Little Beach. You have to park your car at the end of Grahame Drive, then walk a half-mile to reach the campground. This is the ideal camping spot for those who just want to surf, swim, fish, and relax by the ocean. You can start the day with a refreshing sunrise swim, and end it with a peaceful sunset walk along the coast.
Fee: $34 for two people.
Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables, barbeques
Visit the NSW National Parks website to book a campsite in Bouddi National Park.
Wollongong Area
Photo: By Christopher Meder/Shutterstock
The Wollongong area is one of my favorite places in Australia. The city of Wollongong is multicultural and exciting, and it’s surrounded by mountains and beaches. Just north of the city is a string of charming beach towns that continue up until the Royal National Park. Each town is peaceful but full of trendy cafes and bustling weekly markets.
A beachside cycle path stretches along the coast, starting in the town of Thirroul and running 10.5 miles until Wollongong. The Illawarra Escarpment sits on the western edge of the towns, providing gorgeous lookout spots and challenging hiking trails. The Wollongong area is just one hour south of Sydney, so it makes a fun and scenic day trip. But if you’d like to extend your visit here and further explore the area, there is a stunning campground that I recommend.
Coledale Beach Campsite
This is easily one of the nicest camping spots near Sydney. Drive south of the city along the Grand Pacific Drive. You’ll pass some fantastic lookout points such as Bald Hill Lookout, and you’ll drive over the famous Sea Cliff Bridge that juts out from the cliffs over the ocean. If the drive itself wasn’t beautiful enough, you’ll be amazed when you reach Coledale Beach Campsite.
Coledale is one of the lovely towns in the Wollongong area. It is home to some cute cafes, a classic Aussie pub, and a few small local shops. And on the fourth Sunday of every month, the town hosts the Coledale Markets which are full of stalls selling vintage clothes, artwork, homemade treats and trinkets, and other goods.
Coledale Beach is a small but stunning stretch of golden sand. It is also a popular surfing spot among beginner and experienced surfers alike. Lining the grass next to the beach are powered and unpowered campsites. You can drive straight into your campsite, so it’s ideal for those with vans or RVs.
Fee: Powered sites cost $36 for two people for Friday and Saturday night (there is a 2-night minimum). Unpowered sites cost $30 for two people. The prices increase slightly during the busy summer months. Visit the website and book online here.
Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables
Photo: Juergen_Wallstabe/Shutterstock
Jervis Bay is a territory in NSW about three hours south of Sydney. Of all the best camping spots near Sydney on this list, this one requires the most traveling. But, it is undoubtedly worth the journey.
As a popular tourist destination in Australia, Jervis Bay is home to exquisite beaches, local wildlife, and a few fun little towns like Vincentia and Huskisson. Hyams Beach is the most famous spot in the area because it is claimed to have the whitest sand in the world. The White Sands Walk is an easy walking trail that passes Hyams Beach, as well as a few other beaches. Every single beach looks like something out of a postcard, with glistening white sand and clean turquoise water framed by forest.
Aside from being visually stunning, Jervis Bay is a great spot for activities like whale-watching, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, fishing, hiking, and bird-watching. It is the perfect weekend getaway from Sydney, and there are a few camping spots that will make your adventure more exciting. Booderee National Park is the local protected wilderness area in Jervis Bay, and all the campgrounds are within the borders of the park.
Bristol Point Campground
Just south of the famous Hyams Beach is a peaceful campground known as Bristol Point. It is a 50-yard walk from the parking lot to the campsites, so you have to carry in all of your gear. Once you arrive, you’ll find a sandy campground surrounded by massive trees. The campsite is very well-equipped, with fireplaces and barbecues, and even hot showers.
You’ll be camping just steps away from two breathtaking beaches, Bristol Point and Green Patch. The ocean near Bristol Point is often calm and flat, as the Jervis Bay peninsula curves and blocks most of the wind and swells. With crystal clear, shallow water, people of all ages can enjoy the beaches near Bristol Point.
Fee: Prices vary based on seasons and campsite size. Check prices on the Booderee National Park website booking page.
Facilities: Toilets, drinking water, hot and cold showers, fireplaces, and barbeques
Cave Beach Campground
For more dramatic views than the quiet and relaxing Bristol Point Campground, stay at Cave Beach Campground. This campsite is a bit more rugged and remote, so it’s less ideal for families. But for adventure-seekers who want to spend a weekend listening to the crashing waves, the rustling of the Tea Trees, and the squawks of the cockatoos, this is the place to camp. It is a 300-yard walk from the parking lot to Cave Beach Campground, and it’s a one-minute walk from the campground to Cave Beach. The beach has Jervis Bay’s signature soft white sand, but the edge of the sand is home to some rocky cliffs and even an actual cave to explore.
Fee: Prices vary based on seasons and campsite size. Check prices on the Booderee National Park website booking page.
Facilities: Water, toilets, showers, sheltered gas barbeque area, wood barbeques
Photo: Taras Vyshnya/Shutterstock
Two hours south of Sydney lies the Southern Highlands, a lush, green area full of forests, waterfalls, vineyards, and small towns. About 30 minutes inland, the Southern Highlands offers travelers from Sydney a different sort of landscape from the popular beachside campgrounds and coastal national parks.
The little towns in the Southern Highlands, such as Bowral and Robertson, are home to adorable local craft and antique shops as well as authentic Aussie eateries. In the rolling hills around the towns, you’ll find lots of vineyards and wineries. Full of dense forest, towering cliffs, and rivers, the Southern Highlands also have lots of swimming holes and waterfalls. It is a very serene and non-touristy area for soaking in some natural beauty outside Sydney.
Carrington Falls Campground
At 160-feet high, Carrington Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Southern Highlands. So if you’re venturing all the way from Sydney to witness this stunning sight, you may as well set up camp at the nearby Carrington Falls Campground. The town of Robertson is just over a 10-minute drive away from the campsite, so you can grab food and supplies here if necessary. The campground itself has only toilets and picnic tables, so you’ll need to bring all your own supplies and water. With only six campsites, you’re bound to experience some peace and quiet at this campsite, with only the sounds of the native birds and the distant thundering of the waterfall.
Carrington Falls Campground is only a four-minute drive or a 20-minute walk from the waterfall. Imagine waking up in the early morning and watching a misty sunrise from the top of a 160-foot waterfall! At the top of Carrington Falls, the Kangaroo River is quite calm, and there are small natural pools for wading in the water.
Nellies Glen Swimming Hole and Picnic Area is another fun swimming spot, and it’s only a five-minute drive from the campground. Other highlights of the Southern Highlands, like MacQuarie Pass National Park and Belmore Falls, are nearby as well. So you have plenty of options for sightseeing, hiking, and swimming here.
Fee: $12 per night for 2 people, book online here.
Facilities: toilets, picnic tables
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Space tourism projects soon real
In 2017, NASA and the European Space Agency reaffirmed their determination to focus once again on human space exploration. Astronauts will go back to the Moon and fly off to Mars, but they’re not the only ones planning on rocketing off to outer space. Private space companies, such as SpaceX and Virgin Galactic, want to make all of us tag along for the ride as space tourists. Here are eight space travel projects that will become a reality in our lifetime and get us that much closer to turning space into one of our many travel destinations.
1. Take a trip to the International Space Station.
Photo: Bigelow Aerospace/Facebook
Seven fortunate private explorers have already slept aboard the International Space Station. These first-ever space tourists had private company Space Adventures arrange their flights to the International Space Station on the Russian Soyuz spacecraft for them to live and work alongside professional astronauts for 10 days. However, since 2009, no new space tourists have set foot on the ISS. But this is likely to change soon.
Bigelow Aerospace plans on turning part of the ISS into a destination hotel by developing the B330 spacecraft. The B330 project consists of attaching an inflatable commercial space station to the ISS, and was initially slated to become a reality in 2024, though the COVID-19 pandemic has delayed that date. The overall Bigelow Aerospace’s vision is to become the main stand-alone habitation system for low Earth orbit and deep space.
But Bigelow Aerospace is not the only one with their eyes set on the ISS. The Russian space agency (ROSCOSMOS) is developing a five-star luxury orbital module. This luxury orbital suite would be attached to the ISS and be used solely for space tourism. Six tourists a year could benefit from its mesmerizing view, Wi-Fi, and gym amenities.
Making the ISS a tourist destination is not cheap. Only those with a $40 million travel budget will be able to spend a week in these ISS hotel rooms.
2. Hop in an “affordable” 10-minute flight into low Earth orbit.
Photo: Virgin Galatic/Facebook
Traveling to low Earth orbit is quite straightforward: send a spaceship 50 miles up in the air with non-professional astronauts on board. For about 10 minutes, these private passengers will experience flying through space, as well as experiment with weightlessness and see the Earth from above. This suborbital tourist ride will be done through a reusable space plane, taking off from Earth and landing back horizontally just like a regular commercial aircraft.
Virgin Galactic is one of the top private actors in making space accessible for everyone through suborbital flights. Its SpaceShipTwo spaceflight is well on its way to making low-Earth orbit space travel a reality. A single seat for a flight with Virgin Galactic reportedly costs $250,000, but Omaze, the charity fundraising platform, and Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Galactic founder, have teamed up to give away two seats on a flight to space on the VSS Unity. The company’s first commercial suborbital flight took place in July 2021, carrying Sir Richard Brandon alongside three crewmates.
3. Live and work in the Axiom Space Station, ISS’ replacement.
Photo: Axiom Space/Facebook
Although not yet fully developed, Axiom Space Station is aiming to become the successor of the International Space Station and the first commercial space station when the ISS retires in 2025. The private company wants to make living and working in space commonplace — by turning Axiom into the home of professional astronauts, as well as private explorers. The station will consist of modules linked to the International Space Station that will welcome a crew of 16 people micro-gravitating in low Earth orbit. The crew will stay in cabins designed by designer Philippe Starck, admiring the view through massive windows and sharing pictures with their loved ones via the Wi-Fi connection on the space station. As soon as 2022, space tourists will be able to stay 10 days on the station for the eye-watering cost of $55 million.
4. Take a trip from NYC to LA, through Space.
Photo: SpaceX, Galactic Innovation/Facebook
The idea behind Earth-to-Earth flights is to be able to get anywhere on Earth in under an hour. This would be a revolution for airplane transportation led by the BFR reusable rocket technology from private company SpaceX. The BFR would rocket to low-Earth orbit, fly toward its destination, and come back down vertically to a dedicated spaceport, making it possible to get from New York to Los Angeles in less than 30 minutes; NYC to Shanghai in 39 minutes; and Bangkok to Dubai in 24 minutes.
The rocket is still at an early stage of development. To go from orbital testing to full-on commercial Earth-to-Earth flights will certainly require a couple of extra decades. To see what an Earth-to-Earth flight would look like, check out this video. Note that the BFR acronym is not clearly defined. Some say it stands for Big Falcon Rocket although most like to think it means Big F*cking Rocket.
5. Fly around the moon like it’s no biggie.
Photo: Space Adventures
Circumlunar exploration will give space tourists access to the Moon’s vicinity. Private space operator Space Adventures’ plans are to soon offer touristronauts the possibility to fly aboard a Soyuz rocket to the International Space Station for a 10-day stay so that they can adapt to the Space Environment and to zero gravity. After completion, the private explorers will hop back onto the Soyuz spacecraft and connect with a lunar module orbiting in low-Earth orbit — thus starting their real journey to the Moon, which will last approximately six days.
Landing on the moon is not part of the trip. The tourists will get as close as 62 miles from the moon’s surface, letting them join the elite club of the 24 astronauts who have left low-Earth orbit so far. The cost for this journey is still unknown.
6. Move to Mars.
Photo: Mars One – Human Settlement of Mars/Facebook
Mars is the ultimate destination. Having the first human on Mars will most likely occur in less than 10 years, and SpaceX and Boeing are competing to get there first. Public space agencies (NASA, ESA, ROSCOSMOS, ISRO) are also working on their own technologies to fly there, although their flights would be dedicated to research and sampling only. Mars One is another private company advocating for human settlement on Mars although lack of funds might put their project in jeopardy. Regardless of whoever’s project gets concretized first, they’re paving the way to building a base and a self-sustaining human civilization on the red planet. We’re no longer solely talking about space tourism but about becoming full-time residents of Mars.
The first unmanned mission to Mars is planned for 2022 by SpaceX. Two years later, SpaceX intends to launch their first crewed mission. Boeing claims they’ll make it first, but that remains to be seen. These first trips will certainly not include touristronauts but will be the stepping stone to frequent travels to Mars for each and every one of us in about 80 to 100 years.
7. Ride a hot-air balloon to space.
Photo: Space Perspective
If you’re picturing a hot-air balloon ride like the ones you see in Cappadocia or Albuquerque, you’ll have to adjust your expectations. Startup Space Perspective is planning to launch a tourist flight to outer space in a balloon-like shuttle for the (comparatively) low price tag of $125,000.
In 2020 the company announced its new Spaceship Neptune, a crew capsule surrounded by massive windows, and including a minibar and bathroom. The capsule would dangle from the end of a high-altitude balloon filled with hydrogen gas and hover on the edge of space. In June 2021, the company successfully completed its first test run of the capsule’s ascent into space with no humans on board, though the bookable journey likely won’t be available until 2024.
The trip is slated to last six hours, with two hours spent ascending 100,000 feet above Earth, two hours to enjoy the view, and another two hours for the descent. Reservations are now open for 2024 if you don’t mind making a refundable deposit.
8. Stay in a ferris-wheel-like pace hotel.
Photo: Orbital Assembly/Facebook
Staying in a space hotel might sound like a pretty gigantic leap into the future, but it’s not as far away as you might think. Orbital Assembly has announced that it will begin construction on the first-ever space hotel by 2026, and it will be designed to accommodate 280 guests and 112 crew members. The hotel will be housed by Voyager Station, a commercial space station, and will recreate an Earth-like environment with artificial gravity. It will, however, have a gymnasium with lunar gravity, where people can work out, play games, and see how high they can jump in a zero-gravity environment. There will also be an opportunity to take a spacewalk. Voyager Station also plans to hire world-class chefs and top entertainment to give people a truly memorable luxury experience.
The hotel isn’t likely to open before 2027, and the cost for a three-and-a-half-day excursion around Earth’s orbit is projected at around $5 million.
A version of this article was previously published on August 30, 2018, and was updated on July 26, 2021, with more information.
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What to pack for an epic trekking adventure in Latin America
We hope you love the travel gear for Southeast Asia 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.
With landscapes ranging from glaciers to deserts and home to every adventure activity imaginable, it’s no surprise that Latin America is a prime destination for trekkers. Here we have you covered with this travel gear for Latin America list. Whether you’re hiking on glaciers in Argentina, trekking to Machu Picchu in Peru, driving 4WD through the deserts of Chile, or swimming with sea lions in the Galápagos, you’ll be ready for any adventure.
1. Osprey Farpoint 55 backpack
Photo: Osprey
First things first. If you’re traveling around Latin America you’ll need a worthy pack to carry around your clothes, electronics, and everything else that’s coming with you. Get a solid pack that’s built for backpacking and at least 40 liters in size. Backpacks go up to 85 liters, but if you can manage a minimalist lifestyle, your back will certainly appreciate a smaller size pack. Remember, you are the one who has to carry it all. Osprey is a tried and true brand in the backpacker community. Its packs come with a lifetime guarantee, with an emphasis on repair rather than replacement.
We recommend the Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack for trekking and general travel around the region. It’s big enough for your trekking gear, has plenty of straps for a tent and ground pad, and provides easy access to everything inside.
Price: $155 to $390
2. Water-repellant shell layer jacket
Photo: REI
If you plan to hike in the Andes Mountains or trek to Machu Picchu, especially during the rainy season, bring a water-repellant shell jacket with you. The weather in these high altitudes is unpredictable and can turn a hike sour if you aren’t prepared. The North Face Flight Futurelight Jacket is a great choice, as it’s fully waterproof and breathable, making it appropriate for most hiking situations. As a bonus, it folds into itself in one of the pockets, taking minimal space in your hiking pack.
Shop Women’s Futurelight Jacket
Price: $280 to $300
3. Puffer jacket
Photo: REI
Patagonia is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful regions in Latin America, but the further south you travel, the colder it will become. A puffer jacket adds some serious insulation to keep you warm and toasty whether you’re hanging by the penguins or standing high on mountains and volcanoes. You’ll likely need it when you’re anywhere above 10,000 feet, as well as at night when camping or relaxing in high-alpine lodges. REI’s lightweight, packable down jacket is a perfect option for your Latin America travel gear list. Its material is highly compressible and packs into its own left-hand pocket, so you can store it away when you’re in warmer regions.
Price: $99.95
4. Baselayers
Photo: REI
Given the variety of climates you’ll encounter while trekking in Latin America, dressing in layers will become your best tool to manage all of the extreme temperature changes. SmartWool Merino wool layers are a great choice. This miracle fabric keeps you cool when it’s hot out or warm when it’s cold out. And when it gets wet, it keeps you warm while it dries. It truly seems like magic.
Shop Women’s Merino Wool Baselayers
Shop Men’s Merino Wool Baselayers
Price: $34 to $125
5. Lightweight fleece sweater
Photo: REI
A lightweight fleece sweater is an essential piece of gear for trekking in Latin America, whether you’re traveling in the dry or rainy season. It will keep you comfortable in moderate conditions and create good insulation when paired with a shell for chiller evenings and high-altitude cities like Cusco. The Patagonia Micro D Fleece Pullover is a solid option. The sweater is made of quick-drying 100 percent recycled polyester microfleece, the lightest-weight microfleece Patagonia offers.
Price: $59 to $89
6. Hiking boots
Photo: REI
Latin America is home to some of the most epic hiking trails in the world, from the O Circuit in Chile to the Inca Trail in Peru. If you want to tackle some of these bucket-list treks, then you’ll need a solid pair of hiking boots. Ankle support is a must when purchasing hiking boots. Merrell is a well-known brand that makes long-lasting shoes that will get you through any terrain across Latin America. Matador writers and editors have used Merrell boots all over the world and highly recommend them. Grab a pair of Smartwool hiking socks to pair with them. The boots are designed specifically for trail use and will keep your feet surprisingly comfortable even if they get wet due to the wool’s natural moisture-wicking ability.
Price: $96 to $299
Price: $14.93
7. Lightweight scarf
Photo: Zero Grid/Facebook
A scarf is such a versatile travel item. Use it for extra warmth on cold bus rides, as a makeshift towel on the beach, or to wrap around your head for sun protection. There’s no end to the uses scarfs can have, so make sure to pack a light and foldable one. This Zero Grid Infinity Scarf for women even has hidden zip pockets to store your cash, cards, or phone. A perfect item to use when walking through busy cities if you’re worried about theft.
Price: $37.99
8. Comfortable sandals capable of long walks
Photo: REI
Latin America is home to some of the world’s best beaches, so don’t forget to pack a pair of comfortable sandals that you use to walk around beach towns. Get yourself a pair of German-made Birkenstocks, which remain comfortable throughout a day of walking and are great for beaches and cities, too.
Price: $135
9. Comfortable travel clothes
Photo: REI
Aside from the items mentioned above, you’ll want to pack seven to ten days worth of comfortable and lightweight travel clothes in your bag. While this might not seem like enough for a multi-month or even two-week trekking journey, remember that laundry is available en route and that keeping your pack manageable is key. Also, you’ll be meeting new people all the time — so no one will notice the outfit repeats. Pack versatile travel clothes that can be used for both outdoor activities and in the city. Aside from your day-to-day outfits, you’ll want at least one pair of hiking or yoga pants, quick-dry shorts, and a bathing suit. A hat and gloves will also come in handy at some point in your journey.
For tops, we again recommend merino wool due to its ability to soak up sweat and remain clean enough to wear even after multiple uses. The REI Sahara Convertible hiking pant is our pant recommendation for trekking in Latin America. Available in both men’s and women’s varieties, these pants are durable in inclement weather, breathable, and can be turned into shorts on hot days.
Shop Women’s Merino Wool Shirts
Price: $69.95 (pants), $50 to $100 (shirts)
10. REI packing cubes
Photo: REI
Packing cubes will save your sanity when you’re living out of a bag. They keep your clothes organized, meaning you can separate your hot and cold weather clothes depending on the region you’re in. The REI expandable packing cubes are great because each can be expanded in size if you pick up a few new items along the way. Plus, each cube has a see-through mesh pocket with a card that lists its contents, so you easily find what you need without unpacking.
Shop REI expandable packing cubes
Price: $26.93
11. EPICKA universal travel adapter
Photo: Epickatech
While most Central American and Caribbean countries use US outlets, some South American countries use the European style, 120 volts to 220 volts. The easiest thing to do is pack a universal travel adapter, and you’ll be able to charge your electronics no matter where you are in the world. This EPICKA universal travel adapter has four USB slots so you can charge multiple electronics at once and save a fight when there’s only one plug in the dorm where you’re staying.
Shop EPICKA universal travel adapter
Price: $22.99
12. Otterbox Powerbank
Photo: REI
If you plan to do a multi-day trekking adventure in Latin America and want to keep your phone alive for photos, it’s essential to have a power bank. These are also helpful for those long, long bus rides where you play music and podcasts for hours on end. The Otterbank FastCharge Powerbank is great because it can store up to 20,000 mAh, meaning you’ll be able to charge your phone multiple times before needing to recharge the bank. It also comes with both USB-A and fast-charging USB-C ports that let you charge multiple devices simultaneously.
Price: $55
13. Travel filter water bottle
Photo: REI
The tap water isn’t drinkable in many places throughout Latin America, so be sure to pack a travel filter water bottle in your bag. It looks like a normal water bottle, but the technology used in the LifeStraw Go removes 99.9 percent of bacteria, meaning you can safely drink water from anywhere. Not only is this much better for the environment than buying plastic water bottles, but you’ll save a few dollars each day which adds up fast when you’re traveling for weeks or months on end.
Price: $39.95
14. Black Diamond Carbon Z Trekking Poles
Photo: REI
To make your trekking experience as enjoyable as possible, grab a pair of Black Diamond Carbon Z Trekking Poles. These trekking poles are perfect for long hikes and collapse to a packable size that can be strapped to the side of your pack. Trekking poles also help maintain balance during ascents and descents on steep patches of trail, keeping your movement as smooth as possible.
Shop Black Diamond Trekking Poles
Price: $169.95
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8 memorable experiences on Molokai
We all have different feelings about traveling right now. When you’re ready, we hope you feel safe, inspired, and excited to join us on the Island of Molokai. Read more about current safety protocols.Tranquil and authentic, the Hawaiian island of Molokai still hasn’t hit the average tourist’s radar. You won’t believe the statistics: Somewhere around 5,000 visitors hop over to this island every year. On any given day, you’ll be sharing Molokai with fewer than 15 tourists.
As a result, Molokai has managed to remain far less developed than most of its neighbors, offering those who do decide to check it out a seriously authentic, sustainable alternative. If you can respect the land, the sea, and the island’s people, a world of natural wonders will open to you: quiet hikes along mountain ridges, tropical farms with acres of brilliantly colored flowers, pristine beaches and nature reserves that can feel like your own. Here’s what you’ll experience — and never forget — on Molokai.
1. Scoping some of the world’s highest sea cliffs
Photo: Tor Johnson/Hawaii Tourism Authority
Molokai’s rocky northern shore is home to some of the highest, steepest sea cliffs in the world, with a near-vertical drop that starts about 3,300 feet above the Pacific Ocean. The magnificent formations were created over a million years ago when a massive portion of the island collapsed into the waves.
Visitors can see these remote cliffs from the Kalaupapa Overlook at Palaau State Park. Or, for a glorious bird’s-eye view of this natural wonder, helicopter tours from Maui — like those with Sunshine Helicopters — provide a look you won’t forget anytime soon.
2. Calling Halawa Valley home for a day
Photo: Brooke Dombroski/Hawaii Tourism Authority
Around 1,300 years ago, the sprawling Halawa Valley was home to some of Hawaii’s earliest inhabitants. Its level land is a rarity on Molokai’s northeast coast — and, incidentally, it’s the only one of the northeast valleys that can be reached by car.
There are several sites of note here, including the double-tiered, 250-foot Mooula Falls. Take a tour with Greg Solatorio, who’ll lead you on a moderate hike through the valley and share more cultural knowledge than you’ll ever be able to remember. Along the two miles to the falls, you’ll pass fresh mountain streams and heiau, “hidden” traditional places of worship fit for contemplation.
Note: This is private land, so please be respectful, and be sure to arrange your visit in advance.
3. Trekking the sand dunes of Moomomi Preserve
Photo: Shutterstock/Fire Tator
You won’t find any other place in Hawaii like Moomomi Preserve — this two-mile stretch on Molokai’s northwestern shore comprises the most intact coastal sand dune ecosystem on the islands. As such, it’s a vital cache of biodiversity, with over 20 native species of indigenous plants, grass, and shrubs growing among the undulating sand formations.
While on the windy shoreline, you’ll most certainly spot wildlife — the area attracts plenty of rare waterfowl (like the Hawaiian owl), as well as nesting sea turtles and other marine species. When here, do your part to protect the land and the life it sustains, and leave only well-placed footprints.
4. Having one of Hawaii’s largest beaches to yourself
Photo: Dana Edmunds/Hawaii Tourism Authority
With over three miles of soft white sand, Papohaku Beach is famous for being Molokai’s longest. It’s also incredibly wide, at around 100 yards, and — best of all — secluded. Here, you can spend the day admiring the scenery (check out the views of Oahu’s Diamond Head), strolling along the water’s edge, and relaxing on the sand.
Papohaku has a rough shore break — year-round, though slightly calmer in summer — so swimming here doesn’t come recommended. Instead, bring your own food (bonus if it’s from a Molokai farmers market) and make a picnic of it. At Papohaku Beach Park, there are barbecue grills, plenty of tables, parking, restrooms, and shower facilities to set you up for a memorable beach day.
5. Wandering a rainforest boardwalk through Kamakou Preserve
Photo: Shutterstock/Aga Monka
Situated on Molokai’s eastern side, Kamakou Preserve stretches for nearly 3,000 acres along the slopes of the island’s highest mountain (which shares the same name). Home to several rare birds in dire threat of extinction, such as the Molokai thrush or olomao, as well as some 250 native plants and trees, most of which only grow in Hawaii, this dense rainforest hides countless secrets.
A 4WD vehicle is needed to reach the preserve; proper shoes and a long-sleeve shirt are equally essential. Visitors who prefer a guided tour can sign up for one of the monthly hikes (between April and October) offered by the Nature Conservancy, but the three-mile boardwalk trail through the pristine rainforest is open to independent hikers as well.
6. Mailing your best friend a coconut
Photo: Heather Goodman/Hawaii Tourism Authority
Go on and “Post-a-Nut.” Visitors who stop by the tiny post office in the town of Hoolehua can select, decorate, address, and send a real coconut through USPS to just about anywhere in the world. The coconuts are free, and there are plenty of colorful markers and pens to transform yours into a whimsical work of art. About 3,000 coconuts fly through the mail every year!
Note: For delivery within the US, postage ranges from about $15 to $20 per coconut.
7. Stopping to smell the orchids at Halawa Tropical Flower Farm
Photo: Shutterstock/Leigh Anne Meeks
Tucked away in the aforementioned Halawa Valley, Halawa Tropical Flower Farm overflows with brightly hued flowers and plants of all shapes and sizes. Towering over it all — in the background of your Eden-esque selfies — is the epic Mooula Falls.
The story behind the farm might be what gets you here, though: Artist Kalani Pruet cleared the land, created the three-acre property, taught himself the flower business, and is one of half a dozen or so who live sustainably, off-grid, in the valley. In addition to ginger, hibiscus, and Hawaiian orchids, he also harvests an abundance of fresh tropical fruits, including mango, papaya, bananas, and dragonfruit. Grab a smoothie after your guided tour or hike to the falls (by appointment only) — they’re complimentary, but a donation is appreciated.
8. Getting on the water with the Waakapaemua Canoe Club
Photo: Dana Edmunds/Hawaii Tourism Authority
How’s this for a pro tip? Arrive at 7:15am any Thursday morning at Kaunakakai Harbor to join in the Waakapaemua Canoe Club’s weekly practice. You don’t need to book ahead of time — just show up. They’re a welcoming group that delights in teaching newbies the joys of paddling wooden outrigger canoes on the open ocean. You’ll get to partake in an ancient Hawaiian tradition, make new friends, and spot some sea life, all while enjoying a memorable paddle atop the waves.
And get this: It’s free. If you needed a perfect example of what to expect on a visit to Molokai, that’s it right there.
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July 23, 2021
Hawaiians are thrilled about Olympic surfing, but they’re not so sure about the US flag
On Sunday, July 23, the sport of surfing will debut at the Tokyo Olympic Games. World champion Carissa Moore is heavily favored to win in the Women’s category. But, for the first time ever, the Honolulu native won’t be permitted to compete under the Hawaiian flag.
Surfers from Hawaii will have to compete under the US flag, and many Native Hawaiians feel ambivalent about that.
“The conflict I, and many other Native Hawaiians, feel about Carissa and John John [Florence] surfing under the United States flag goes back to the illegal overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom,” says Kalani Ka‘anā‘anā, Chief Brand Officer for the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority.
Waving the Hawaiian flag
Photo: Dane Gillett/Shutterstock
In surfing competitions around the world, surfers from Hawaii have the Hawaiian flag beside their names on the scoreboard, on their jerseys out on the water, and, if they win — which they often do — draped over their shoulders on the victory walk from the sand to the podium.
That’s what Kalani Vierra says he has done in the tandem surf competitions he and his partner have won in places like Spain or Australia, and in locations like New Zealand, where they were the highlight of tandem surf exhibitions.
“For myself, when I did travel, I waved my Hawaiian flag,” Vierra told us by phone as he did a pre-dawn drive to surfing on the west side of Kauai.
Commenting on the two Hawaiians on the US Olympic surf team, Ka‘anā‘anā says via email, “Without question, they are two of the biggest names in professional surfing who have been able to compete in the World Surf League under the Hawaiian flag as they recognize Hawai‘i’s unique history as the home of surfing.”
It’s not that Hawaiian athletes in any sport should compete under their flag, but that surfing wouldn’t exist without Hawaii. Hawaii didn’t just invent surfing; it was one of the few places that could have done so.
It couldn’t have started anywhere else
Photo: EpicStockMedia/Shutterstock
“There is no way to know where, when, or how people first surfed on waves,” says DeSoto Brown, a historian who curated the recent exhibit Mai Kinohi Mai: Surfing in Hawaiʻi at the Bishop Museum in Honolulu. “However, we can say with certainty that by the time the first outside people arrived in the Hawaiian Islands in 1778 and documented and described the surfing they encountered, Hawaii had achieved the highest evolution of the sport.”
A key factor, notes Brown via email, is that Hawaii had warm water. Surfing was a sport that could only have been invented in the tropics, Brown tells us, because the water is too cold in most of the world to be used for recreating without modern equipment.
“Visiting Europeans and Americans from temperate climates mostly could not even swim at all, even sailors, so to see everyone from babies to old people playing actively in the water was an astounding sight in the late 1700s and early 1800s,” says Brown. “For many foreigners, the ocean was a threatening enemy, not a welcoming environment.”
It would be nearly two centuries before wetsuits would make surfing in cold water — even alongside floating ice — possible. Brown also notes that Hawaii’s geographic location at the cross-section of ocean swells, along with its varied coastal topography, meant that there were surf breaks in many different places, and with varying conditions, throughout the Hawaiian archipelago.
“These physical attributes were crucial in surfing’s development, but it was up to the creativity and physical prowess of the Hawaiians to have created surfing,” says Brown. “And make no mistake, the sport of surfing which is now international is the outgrowth specifically of what Hawaiians invented.”
An equalizing sport
Photo: brycekauai/Shutterstock
Surfing was not limited to the wealthy nor just to men. “While Hawaiians of the time lived in a very stratified society with very specifically defined gender roles, both males and females actively surfed, along with everyone from royalty to commoners,” says Brown.
Perhaps it was the sight of scantily clad women, more so than the men, that first shocked the Christian missionaries who came to Hawaii in the 1820s. While the oft-cited contention that these missionaries outlawed surfing is debated, one thing we know for certain: The arrival of Westerners, which began even before the missionaries’ arrival, resulted in a drastic reduction in the number of surfers.
For one, Hawaiians suffered the social and economic dislocation brought on by foreigners who soon set up plantations and imported workers from countries like Japan to work at them. Moreover, foreigners brought diseases to which the Hawaiians — much like so many Indigenous peoples in the Americas — had no immunity. It’s estimated foreign-brought illnesses may have killed more than 80 percent of Native Hawaiians in less than 60 years. The effect of this devastation on the number of Hawaiians who could enjoy their ancient pastime in the water was drastic.
Although the arrival of Westerners endangered surfing, the sport persisted. It’s a testament to surfing’s central place in Hawaiian culture.
“Surfing, or He’e nalu, is a Hawaiian cultural, artistic, and athletic sport. It has been practiced in our culture for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. We have always identified with surfing as a part of our identity and it enables us to connect to our kupuna (ancestors) today,” says Isaiah Walker, Academic Vice President and member of the Faculty of Culture, Language & Performing Arts at Hawaii’s Brigham Young University.
From royalty to the Olympics
Photo: Library of Congress
We can also give credit for surfing’s survival to Princess Ka‘iulani, the last heir to the Hawaiian crown before the kingdom was overthrown by the United States in 1893. In a just-released book, Women on Waves: A Cultural History of Surfing: From Ancient Goddesses and Hawaiian Queens to Malibu Movie Stars and Millennial Champion, author Jim Kempton argues that Hawaii’s Princess Ka‘iulani was not only an avid and accomplished surfer, but may have been responsible for ensuring its continued existence in Hawaii.
Kempton says it was Princess Ka‘iulani who paved the way for the Hawaiian surfer better known for bringing surfing to the world: Duke Kahanamoku.
This brings us back to the Olympics. Kahanamoku is credited with introducing surfing to California in 1912 and to Australia in 1914 — which both became surfing powerhouses in the following years. But the world’s eyes were on Kahanamoku in the first place because he was a highly accomplished Olympian, having racked up gold and silver medals in swimming at three different Olympics.
Kahanamoku — whose original surfboard can be seen at the Bishop Museum’s Hawaiian Hall — had dreamed of bringing surfing to the Olympics, and it took nearly a century for that to happen. And for that, Hawaiians are grateful.
“As a Hawaiian, it is very exciting to have Carissa and John John competing in the Olympics as surfing makes its debut in the summer games. Both are incredible world-class athletes who are very proud of their Hawai‘i roots,” says the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority’s Ka‘anā‘anā. “I have no doubt they will have all of Hawai‘i cheering them on to bring home the gold.”
If they do both earn gold, it won’t be a surprise. The same conditions that made Hawaii the birthplace of surfing still make it the training ground for many of the most accomplished surfers in the world. Even Kelly Slater — who at age 49 is still strong enough to serve as the alternate on the three-member US Men’s team — is an 11-time World Champion and widely regarded as the greatest surfer of all time. Although he learned to surf in Florida, he honed his skills as a teenager on Oahu’s Banzai Pipeline.
In fact, BYU’s Walker says Hawaiians will also be cheering on Tatiana Weston-Webb, a Kauai-based surfer who will be surfing for Brazil in these Olympics, and Brissa Hennessey, who will surf for Costa Rica, where she lived until the age of eight before moving to Oahu’s North Shore.
Making the Hawaii story clear once and for all
Photo: Mana Photo/Shutterstock
The hope at this year’s Olympics is that the presence of so many Hawaiians — and the controversy over the flag — will finally draw the world’s attention to Hawaii’s centrality in the existence of surfing. The absurdity of cities like Santa Cruz and Hamilton Beach fighting over the trademark title of “Surf City USA” becomes even more apparent.
“Surfing is a gift to the world, but has often been appropriated into Western culture,” opines BYU’s Walker.
Fortunately, this year is forcing a reckoning of that fact. At least Ka‘anā‘anā believes so.
“There has been considerable national and international media coverage leading up to the Olympics focused on the fact that Hawai‘i was not able to send its own surf team to the games this year,” says Ka‘anā‘anā. “Many of those stories have not been shy to point out the fact that Hawai‘i is the birthplace of surfing.”
For his part, tandem surf world champ Vierra had been hoping to do an exhibition with his partner in Tokyo and had been raising funds to that end before the pandemic derailed those plans. Instead, he’ll be watching the US Olympic surf team compete from his Kauai home. He is looking forward to seeing the Hawaiians show their skills.
“I’m hoping that Carissa and John John bring the Hawaiian flag,” says Vierra. “And maybe they have the opportunity to wave it.”
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Watch this YouTuber explore Albania’s abandoned Communist-era bunkers
Despite the end of Communism in the Balkan region of Europe, much like the rest of Eastern Europe, it remains marked by its past. Military bunkers are one of these lingering remnants. In Albania, bunkers are everywhere, serving as stoic symbols of history. Though many sit abandoned, others have been repurposed in creative ways that breathe new life into otherwise forgotten ruins.
Between the 1960s and 1980s, over 173,000 bunkers were built in Albania during the reign of Enver Hoxha, an authoritarian leader implementing a hard-core version of Stalisnim. Their construction was the result of a program called “bunkerization,”, wherein bunkers were built all across the country for the purpose of defending it against neighbors’ aggression. Hoxha was so paranoid about an impending attack that he ordered every bunker to be manned constantly, even in the absence of an active threat. The bunker program was a tremendous drain on Albania’s economy, resulting in poor infrastructure and housing conditions — an impact that can be felt in the country even today.
The bunkers were never used for war, as intended. After the authoritarian communist government was dissolved in 1992, the bunkers were abandoned and repurposed for residential accommodation, cafes, storehouses, and animal shelters. A nod to the country’s complicated past, the bunkers remain one of Albania’s most notable and ubiquitous architectural features.
This inspired the people behind the YouTube channel Yes Theory to travel to Albania to explore the bunkers, and discover how they’re being used today.
One bunker, known as the “Tattoo Bunker,” now serves as a tattoo parlor. Others have been turned into cafes, while some, located on private land, are being preserved by the owner in their original condition.
“You can do something inside, but it will always remain a story,” he said.
The YouTubers’ trip in Albania ended at a 2,500-year-old castle, which put the bunkers and the country as a whole into perspective. “These bunkers are only the most recent trace of Albania’s heavy history,” they say in the video. “The castle that had been conquered by the Romans, and then the Ottomans, is now standing as a representation of what Albania has gone through for thousands of years. That despite continuous wars and oppression, the Albanian people have held each other together through traditions and culture that have outlived it all.”
While monuments and ruins tend to feel like time capsules, unchangeable and permanent reminders of the past, they also don’t define a country’s future. Nations and cultures have long histories, and while 25 years of “bunkerization” might sound like a lot, it’s just a small blip on Albania’s long, complex timeline.
In the video, the travelers suggest, “remembering the past while taking ownership of it to create a new future.” The creative repurposing of Albania’s bunkers is an encouraging example of owning the past, embracing it, learning from it, and optimistically looking toward the future.
The post Watch this YouTuber explore Albania’s abandoned Communist-era bunkers appeared first on Matador Network.
Tonight’s buck moon is happening during the best meteor shower of the year
A special astronomical event is taking to the sky tonight and will be visible until Sunday morning. The buck moon will be visible after sundown on July 23, but will best light up the sky at 10:37 PM ET, according to NASA. For those in Newfoundland, Greenland, and further east, the moon will actually be the most visible on Saturday, July 24.
According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, the Algonquin tribes of what is now the northeastern US named this particular full moon the “buck moon” in relation to the time when male deer, or buck, grow new antlers. It is also called the “thunder moon.”
The Europeans call it the “hay moon” for the hay-making season, or the “mead moon” for the drink made during that time of the year.
Whatever you decide to call it, keep your eyes on the night sky tonight. If you manage to find a place with no light pollution, you might even catch a shooting star or two from the Perseid meteor shower, which will be here until August 24, 2021.
The post Tonight’s buck moon is happening during the best meteor shower of the year appeared first on Matador Network.
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