Matador Network's Blog, page 626
June 29, 2021
Airline alcohol bans mean we may never achieve the perfect in-flight beverage
At 40,000 feet, even little plastic bottles of mid-shelf liquor feel like a treat. Yet just when it seemed like the era of in-flight craft and draught beers, quality wines, and artisan cocktails might finally be upon us, a new trend is threatening to disrupt the efforts airlines have made to revamp beverage services over the last decade: alcohol bans.
Boozing is a big part of the flying ritual for many travelers, from pre-flight cocktails to wine pairings with in-flight meals. First- and business-class passengers might expect to be greeted with a glass of bubbly on long-haul flights, while the promise of ordering a drink from the discomfort of an economy seat is one of the few remaining luxuries for the average traveler.
Airlines recognize the demand for better in-flight drinks. Several have partnered with alcohol brands to perfect their beverage services. Hawaiian Airlines serves a trio of tropical bottled cocktails crafted exclusively for the airline by On The Rocks Premium Cocktails. Scandinavian Airlines and Danish brewer Mikkeller have teamed up multiple times to create specialty beers designed to be enjoyed at altitude. The Dutch and Hong Kong flag carriers, KLM and Cathay Pacific, have also trialed partnerships with Heineken and Hong Kong Beer Co, respectively.
Many airlines have also invested in wine programs by enlisting the help of sommeliers and experts to craft refined wine menus. Master of Wine Jeannie Cho Lee, for example, is one of three consultants responsible for managing the wine service at Singapore Airlines, which also employs a crew of what the company calls “air sommeliers” to help passengers order the right wine mid-flight.
The success of these beverage programs has varied. Where Singapore Airlines has steadily evolved its wine service to reflect different routes and regional cuisines, Cathay Pacific’s Betsy pale ale, which was handcrafted to taste best at 35,000 feet, has had a start-and-stop run. These hiccups are understandable. Beyond practical considerations such as volume, storage, and supply chain, airline beverage programs have to contend with the ways in which flying impacts the way passengers actually experience their drinks.
“First is your physiological state at high altitude,” says Lee, which covers everything from being dehydrated, tired, and stressed to each individual’s physical condition. “Then there’s the air pressure, the cabin temperature, and the environment.”
As these factors do a number on the wine as well as your body, the end result is that “the wine’s structure, rather than the flavors, tend to be more prominent in the air.” Accordingly, the natural acidity of a white wine like Chablis is exaggerated while the tannins in red wines become harsher, pointing airlines toward more velvety, softer, rounder reds, Lee explains.
Photo: Yuliya Yesina/Shutterstock
Crafting in-flight drinking and dining programs that can stand up to flying fatigue and dulled taste buds is an uphill battle for airlines. A year of limited flights, and the cancellation of beverage programs on flights that were running, could make that battle even steeper. Unlike meal services, many of which have received Michelin-chef makeovers in recent years, alcoholic beverages are not essential fare — and they’re often linked to disruptive incidents onboard, a phenomenon that’s spiked this year.
Since the start of 2021, airline trends have shown two things: a surge of bookings following the pandemic-induced travel drought, and a spike in unruly passenger behavior, from objections to mask-wearing and social distancing to outright violence.
Following an altercation between a Southwest Airlines flight attendant and an inebriated passenger last month, which resulted in the flight attendant losing two teeth, the airline announced that it would be suspending its newly resumed alcohol sales. American Airlines quickly followed suit, deciding to ban mid-flight alcohol sales in its economy cabins until at least mid-September. This ban does not apply to first- or business-class travelers.
United, which had previously announced plans to resume its alcohol service on flights of 200 miles or more, has opted for a more vigilant reintroduction that begins with longer flights. At present, the airline plans to limit beer, wine, and hard seltzer offerings to domestic flights that exceed 800 miles and hub-to-hub flights.
Though the current airline alcohol bans are neither permanent nor ubiquitous, the idea has been gaining traction. Sara Nelson, the international president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, has even advocated for federal intervention.
“The incidents of violence on planes is out of control, and alcohol is often a contributor,” she said in a statement earlier this month. “The federal government should provide guidance to airlines and airports on pausing alcohol sales for a period of time. We should do everything in our power to remove contributors to the problem.”
Others have questioned the bans, noting the fact that a majority of the incidents reported this year occurred when both food and beverage services were suspended due to the pandemic.
A lot remains to be seen about the future of post-pandemic flying. The future of quality in-flight drinking appears equally uncertain. At the very least, it’s safe to assume that the efforts airlines were starting to make to perfect the plane-ready beverage will be on hold indefinitely, much to the dismay of travelers who take pleasure in sipping drinks while cruising over the cloud line.
As for the possibility that we might be entering an era of in-flight prohibition, Lee said it best when asked to envision a world in which wine would no longer be served alongside meals on long-haul flights: “That would be a very sad day if that happens.” 
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Japan program gives away homes
If you’re a prospective homebuyer who is struggling to gather up the money for a downpayment or to be approved for a mortgage, you may want to consider moving to Japan. To keep good homes from going to waste, Some towns and home-owners in Japan are trying to reduce the number of abandoned homes across the country by offering them up for free, or selling them for as low as $500. Perhaps surprisingly, there are tons of abandoned and empty houses on the outskirts of Japan’s major cities — eight million of them according to a 2018 government report, up 3.2 percent since 2013. The same report found that 13.6% of Japan’s homes were unoccupied, particularly in the prefectures of Wakayama, Tokushima, Kagoshima, and Kochi.
Japan’s aging population is partly responsible for the high number of abandoned houses in the country. There are few young people to purchase the homes of those who left them for retirement homes or who passed away. And the young people who are present take longer to have families for which they would need a home.
Many homeowners are simply left with no choice but to give the houses away for free, with some local governments offering subsidies to encourage potential new owners to renovate the properties. The provincial governments have set up akiya banks, databases of abandoned homes for sale, which are generally organized by region. Most of the listed homes are available for as little as $455 each, while others are being given for free. Some of the governments are even offering remote workers cash grants to stay in the countryside, according to Insider. In Okutama, the town distributes old and abandoned buildings to residents at no cost, and many new tenants have creatively repurposed them into restaurants, workshops, and other venues.
“The program not only helps the old owners, who were struggling to utilize the properties and pay taxes, but also for the town by reducing the number of abandoned buildings that could collapse or otherwise pose risks in the future,” a spokesperson for the Okutama government office told Nikkei.
Japan is also tapping into the remote work trend to boost its population of gainfully employed prospective tenants. Last year Nikkei reported that an incentive program was being introduced for remote workers employed in Tokyo to move to the countryside. Each worker would be given a grant of just over $9,000.
A version of this article was previously published on November 16, 2018, and was updated on June 29, 2021, with more information.
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June 28, 2021
TikToker found mysterious underwater structures on Google Earth. Here’s what the place really is.
There is a lot of crazy stuff underwater. But when a TikTok user who goes by secrets.on.google.earth looked below the surface near the Florida Keys, they couldn’t believe what they saw — a strange field of rectangles laid out on the ocean floor, next to an even weirder collection of antenna-like formations with bizarre growths.
In a video, the TikToker zooms down to the ocean south of the Keys, and then seems to plunge underwater to reveal the bizarre structures.
Users speculated it might be a recreation of Atlantis, the home of Ariel and her mermaid family, a rock farm for aquarium decorations, an underwater graveyard, and many other odd possibilities.
@secrets.on.google.earthWhat is this place? 😳😨 ##googleearth ##googlemaps ##google ##hidden ##trending ##viral ##scary ##secretsongoogleearth ##secretsongoogleearth ##ocean
A few users, though, guessed correctly. It’s actually a nursery for new coral, and it’s how Florida is saving its coral reefs that have been damaged by pollution and climate change. Fragments of coral are placed on metal “coral trees” until they grow large and healthy enough to be returned to reefs.
The project is the work of the Coral Restoration Foundation, which ensures coral is genetically diverse and also able to withstand rising ocean temperatures. The nonprofit dedicated to saving coral reefs has already moved 130,000 endangered corals back to Florida’s reefs.
You can spend time volunteering there, as one TikToker said he’s done. It’s one of many initiatives that put Florida at the top of the list for sustainable wildlife tourism. Saving coral reefs and helping give back to the ocean in other ways is also one of the newest trends in scuba diving — one that we fully support.
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14 beautiful Airbnbs in Mexico City ’s trendiest neighborhoods
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.
Mexico City was founded on top of the ancient Aztec capital of Tenochitlán, which existed from 1325 to 1521. Part of its ruins — such as the Templo Mayor — are open to visitors, although many of them lay hidden underneath the streets you will walk on while discovering Centro Histórico, the historical center of the city. Nowadays, the city is so large that it extends way beyond Centro Histórico, with many neighborhoods with totally different vibe. To help you choose an area from which to work remotely or spend a few days on vacation, we’ve picked the best Mexico City Airbnbs in the most central areas of the city, and curated a list of interesting places to visit nearby. And, if you’re looking for the Mexico City adventure of your dreams without doing any of the organizing, Matador Network has the perfect trip waiting for you.
Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, Centro Histórico (Downtown)1. Stylish, centrally-located two-bedroom apartment
Photo: Airbnb
This beautiful space on Col. Cuauhtémoc is near Rokai, one of the best ramen spots in town. An impeccable place, this unit is fully equipped and comfortably fits four people. There is also an outdoor terrace (hammock included) perfect for yoga, training, or relaxing. You’ll be five blocks from the main avenue, Paseo de la Reforma, from which you can easily reach the Bosque de Chapultepec or any point in downtown CDMX. For a great breakfast, visit Niddo and in the afternoon, Salón Ríos is a classic cantina that serves Mexican antojitos followed by mezcal or tequila. If you feel like taking a walk within a 20-minute range you can visit the Museo e Antropología, the Museo de Arte Moderno, and the Tamayo Museum.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $135 per night
Photo: GeorgeColePhotoAirbnb
Close to the popular Blom Café is this minimalist and well-lit studio apartment. A good example of the minimalist style common with Mexico City Airbnbs, this spot is perfect for those who travel alone or as a couple and who need a space to rest or a place from which to work, with the independence of having a kitchen and washing machine. In front of Roma Norte, this chic apartment is close to the historic center of Mexico City. You can have breakfast at Havre 77 or Café Nin, eat at Loose Blues or Masala & Maíz, indulge in a dessert at Joe Gelato, or enjoy a coffee or a cold beer at Cicatriz.
Three guests, studio
Price: $60 per night
Photo: Airbnb
This small but modern apartment is located in the heart of Centro Histórico (Downtown), within walking distance from the Cathedral, the Templo Mayor, the Plaza de Santo Domingo (including the famed street quesadillas on its corner), and the Palacio de Bellas Artes. You can’t miss eating at El Cardenal or Café de Tacuba, checking out the murals of the Palacio Nacional (you have to bring an original ID or they will not let you in), and walking the Alameda de Bellas Artes after visiting its Palacio until you reach Barrio Alameda. If you’re in the mood for live jazz, the Zinco Jazz Club — just up the road from the apartment — is your spot.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $68 per night
Photo: Airbnb
On the border with Roma Norte, this unit is located on Avenida Chapultepec in what’s known as the Wanderlust District. With easy downtown access, there are many rooms for different capacities, perfect for groups of travelers seeking to maximize their budget. This room for six people has three double bunk beds, includes breakfast, and has a shared roof garden where you can hang out or work. Next to it, you have metro and metro bus stations. The spot is within walking distance from Mercado Juárez, a true neighborhood market with its options of traditional food and local fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and meats. You can also walk to the Jardín Juárez to have a beer in the open air, go for a pizza at Dr. Pizza, and listen to live music at Parker & Lennox.
Six guests, one bedroom
Price: $59 per night
Photo: Airbnb
This bright and well-trimmed space has four very comfortable rooms that can receive up to 10 people. Casa Tierra is full of Mexican contemporary design pieces by M.A. and Cacao and is located on the busy Av. Álvaro Obregón, two blocks from Calle Colima. Here you will find several of the most interesting design stores in the city (look for your gifts inside the aptly named Happening Store), surrounded by many restaurants such as the classic MOG, Belmondo, the delicious tacos at Taquería Orinoco and the drinks of Páramo and El Parnita. If you are a vinyl lover, Revancha and La Roma Records are nearby.
Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $152 per night
Photo: Airbnb
This small but perfect loft, surrounded by greenery and opening onto the whole of Condesa from its living room, is ideal for one or two people. You can even open its windows to enjoy the sunrise and sunset from bed. With a spacious bathroom that includes a washing machine,it’s the ideal place for a long stay. It is very close to Avenida Alfonso Reyes and its delicious breakfast options, including Casa Bruna, Quesería de mí, and Peltre. You’ll have one of the best cafes in the neighborhood in Chiquitito and some good literature at El Péndulo Bookstore or the Fondo de Cultura Económica. You can get to Parque México easily and get to know the newest tortillería from the Mexican chef Enrique Olvera, Molino “El Pujol.”
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $120 per night
Photo: Airbnb
With a private outdoor area and a shared rooftop, this recently remodeled space in an old Art Deco house has all the comforts to spend a short or long period in Mexico City. Close to the subway and easy to travel around by bicycle, it’s very close to the Bosque de Chapultepec, where you can run in the mornings, go sightseeing while you get to know its castle or go through it to reach the main museums on Av. Paseo de la Reforma. The delicious cuisine of Lardo, by chef Elena Reygadas, is right up the street, as well as the mythical Nevería Roxy on the beautiful and very green Avenida Mazatlán.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $68 per night
Photo: Airbnb
This fully equipped apartment is ideal for those traveling with children, with high-speed internet and a supermarket next door. The well-known Don Juan Tacos is two doors away, famous for having appeared in the movie Amores Perros but around here, their notoriety is only tacos-related. Nearby you have the Parque España and there are a ton of gastronomic and shopping options.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $191 per night
Photo: Airbnb
With a private terrace and enough space to feel at home, this loft with eclectic decoration can accommodate up to four people with all the comforts. Very close to a metro station and a few minutes’ walk from the Museo de Antropología and important galleries such as Kurimanzutto, you will be on the border of Condesa and the San Miguel Chapultepec neighborhood. This residential area is home to the best baguettes this side of the city at Deli Lou. It is also a good base camp to move within the city, or to get away from it all and stay at home working or resting.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $238 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Inside an old California-style house, this completely independent space with a mix of traditional and contemporary decor envelops you in a modern and comfortable version of Mexico. You will find several of the house’s design pieces in the new Casa Ikal Condesa, a few blocks away, where you can buy the works of some of the best Mexican brands such as Ayres. That way, you’ll return home with gifts that remind you not only of your time in Mexico but of the space in which you stayed.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $174 per night
Photo: Airbnb
This house with a private terrace and a shared garden was the first study of the famous muralist José Clemente Orozco. It is now managed by his granddaughters. He designed and built it between 1921 and 1923 with three bedrooms with private bathrooms. The house can comfortably welcome up to eight people. It is located in Coyoacán, one of the best neighborhoods to experience Mexico City beyond its central, tourist-heavy areas. If you choose it and you like art, don’t miss the Dolores Olmedo Museum, the Anahuacalli Museum, and the Diego and Frida House Studio Museum.
Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $116 per night
Photo: Airbnb
The upscale, business-centric area of Polanco is home to the Jumex and Soumaya Museum, the Inbursa Aquarium, many design shops, and the famous Pujol restaurant (book in advance). This apartment puts you close to it all, and it can accommodate up to seven people. With 24-hour security and on a very quiet street, you’re in a safe quarter in this apartment. You will be well connected to the rest of the city if you use private transport. Though, it’s just two blocks to the famous Presidente Masaryk street with some of the city’s luxury boutiques, a few blocks from the Parque Lincoln and a 25-minute walk from the Museo de Antropología.
Seven guests, two bedrooms
Price: $255 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Ideal for a group trip, this massive complex has five rooms in a building shaped like a snake. It is without a doubt the most unique of Mexico City’s Airbnbs and can accommodate up to six people. It was designed by the Mexican architect Javier Senosiain in 2008 and is a key example of the so-called organic architecture. It is on the outskirts of Mexico City, so plan to enjoy the nature of its gardens and stay in during your visit. Nearby is the Basilica de Los Remedios, one of the oldest in Latin America, with a traditional food market neaby.
Six guests, five bedrooms
Price: $306 per night
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Gordon Ramsay’s attempt to make Puerto Rican pegao sparks debate over authenticity
Gordon Ramsay isn’t known for his sensitivity — in fact, quite the opposite: He’s built a reputation on insulting amateur home cooks and berating professional chefs. Usually, audiences find that abrasive side of his personality refreshing (or least entertaining) as he cooks dishes from around the world. Yet even when he’s agreeable, his cooking can rub people the wrong way. Most recently, Ramsay is facing criticism after he attempted to prepare pegao, a Puerto Rican fried rice dish.
In a recent video posted to the chef’s YouTube channel titled “Can Gordon Ramsay Make a Puerto Rican Crispy Rice Dish?” Ramsay greets viewers from Puerto Rico, which he calls one of the most “incredible islands I’ve had a chance to visit.” He says the dish is a “staple,” and “nothing fancy,” but his tone isn’t dismissive or condescending. He clearly admires the dish and is excited about recreating it.
Still, some chefs took issue with Ramsay’s approach to pegao. On Twitter, a Puerto Rican chef named Reina, who goes by @thesofritoproject, wrote, “This isn’t pegao,” and pointed out that, “It’s just frustrating to see white male chefs get applauded for doing the bare minimum (and incorrectly, for that matter) about cuisines they know nothing about and then get heralded as experts.”
Though Ramsay’s final dish certainly looks appetizing, the video found many detractors who agreed with Reina’s objections to his version of pegao. One user pointed out that pegao refers to a very specific type of rice, tweeting, “Don’t get me wrong, this looks great and all. But what we typically refer to as ‘pegao’ refers to the rice that sticks to the bottom of the pan while cooking, which gets all crispy and sticky.”
Another person on Twitter was a bit more blunt in his opinion of the dish: “This is it not what you’re saying it is. – Every Puerto Rican that has ever existed.”
It’s not the first time Ramsay has found himself in hot water regarding recipes from cultures other than his own. Back in 2019, his London restaurant Lucky was at the center of a debate over cultural appropriation, with critics claiming that the menu treated pan-Asian cuisine as a monolith with interchangeable dishes.
There were some people who were more receptive to Ramsay’s interpretation of pegao, however. On Youtube, a commenter wrote, “The Puerto Rican delegation has accepted Gordon’s Ramsey’s application for Boricua citizenship.”
Reina isn’t alone in commenting that white male celebrity chefs often get praised for popularizing cuisines that have been cooked by historically underrepresented people for generations. It’s an idea that’s widespread within the food and restaurant world — and it’s one that many chefs are just starting to grapple with. It’s always worth questioning how some chefs market and take credit for dishes outside their own culture.
While Ramsay’s intentions might have been to celebrate and honor Puerto Rican flavors, the issue many of his critics have is that he chose to call his dish pegao. That dish has a very specific definition, and he chose to reinterpret pegao in favor of his own culinary whims. It seems that he simply got his facts wrong: In a Twitter thread, Seattle-based chef Eric Rivera wrote that “you wouldn’t use a cast-iron pan” to make pegao. “You would use a caldero made of aluminum if it is a classic preparation. Adding butter wouldn’t be a thing,” he added.
He boils down the problem with Ramsay’s attempt to cook pegao by writing that, “You’re showing people the wrong name of the dish, the wrong technique.” The solution Rivera suggests instead is to next time, “Get a Puerto Rican person to get on camera and sit back, let them do the talking, and cooking. Learn, cook it many times, then think about a video with the original Puerto Rican to show your progress.”
There isn’t necessarily anything inherently wrong with adapting dishes from other cultures to a chef’s specific tastes. But when white chefs call their interpretation of a marginalized culture’s dish by the wrong name, it’s easy to see why plenty of people would feel like that’s erasure of their own beloved culture and traditions.
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New animation shows what exactly is inside the Statue of Liberty
People around the world are familiar with what the outside of the Statue of Liberty looks like with her light green color, crown, tablet with the date of the Declaration of Independence, and torch. The inside, however, is lesser known. A new video from animator Jared Owen gives a look at what holds Lady Liberty upright for all who enter the New York Harbor.
Turns out that just like the human body, Lady Liberty needs a skeleton. The statue was constructed using a method called repoussé. To make it, the outside pieces of copper — about the thickness of two pennies — were hammered into shape using a wooden mold. Then, iron straps were put on the inside for support. This was done piece by piece, but that alone couldn’t hold up the 151-feet-tall statue. A support structure made by Gustave Eiffel (yes, the one responsible for the Eiffel Tower built a few years later) uses a central iron pylon with smaller support beams. This allows it to sway up to 4.7 inches without being damaged or toppling over, thus enabling the statue to hold for the long run.
The final statue with the internal supports was broken into more than 350 pieces to be moved from France to the US — and it took four months to be reassembled on what was then known as Bedloe’s Island (now it’s Liberty Island). The careful construction worked, though the torch had to be replaced in 1986 because of water damage. Today, the copper flame is covered with 24-karat gold, while the original is on view in the monument lobby on Liberty Island.
It’s possible to see parts of the Statue of Liberty’s skeleton for yourself. The crown of the statue is open by reservation only, and on the way up you can see the internal supports. What you can’t see is the full inside. The torch was open in the past, but tours stopped after the “Black Tom” explosion on July 30, 1916. National Park Service staff are the only ones who can see it today, and get there via a 40-foot ladder. For a look at the rest of the interior, you’ll have to rely on animations.
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6 beautiful urban trails that prove Washington State was made for hiking
Lush forests, glacier-clad Cascade Mountain peaks, and saltwater shorelines are hallmarks of Washington State. Thankfully, you don’t need to travel far to enjoy these natural wonders. Anyone can experience the Evergreen State’s abundant beauty via urban trails that include everything from city center waterfront walks to true mountain treks.
Located in or near the city, urban trails are defined by ease of access. Most are family and dog-friendly, with trailhead amenities and year-round hikeability. As with any hike, it’s a good idea to fuel up properly, bring plenty of water and snacks, and come with the right gear. But rest assured — you’ll never be far from the city on these adventures in the nearby nature.
Here are six diverse urban trails spread across the state. Mileage ranges are given, but since most of these trail networks are extensive, your mileage may vary.
1. Riverfront Park in Spokane1-2 miles round trip
Photo: Krumpelman Photography/Shutterstock
Located near the Idaho border, Spokane is Washington’s second-largest city. It’s a city that embraces its natural surroundings, and Riverfront Park is among the prettiest city parks in the state. Suspension bridges span the Spokane River, where waterfalls thunder through the canyon below. The Spokane SkyRide aerial cable cars fly over the falls in slow motion. Elsewhere in the park, human-made attractions like the historic clock tower, pavilion, and a giant red wagon make this urban greenspace one of Spokane’s top destinations. And it’s all accessible via urban pathways in the center of the city.
Looping through the park can take an hour or an afternoon, depending on your preferences. First, grab a park map at the visitor center. For the best views of Spokane Falls, cross the river via suspension bridge to Snxw Meneɂ island (this Salish name means “salmon people”). Back on the main island, you can’t miss the Expo ‘74 Pavilion — a former IMAX theater built for the World’s Fair that’s been converted into an elevated walkway and river viewing platform. Catch the sunset from here if you can. Then stroll through the peaceful park to the Great Northern Clock Tower. A remnant from Spokane’s industrial railway past, the tower has stood the test of time since 1902.
2. Saddle Rock Trail in Wenatchee3 miles round trip
Photo: Trish Jose/Shutterstock
If you’re looking for more “hike” and less “urban,” Saddle Rock is the answer. The prominent rock is visible from Wenatchee — a picturesque town on the other side of the Cascades mountains from Seattle — that rises nearly 2,000 feet above the valley. It’s a short, steep trek that gains 900 feet in a little over one mile, so come prepared for a proper hike. The summit offers sweeping views of the Columbia River.
Saddle Rock is perhaps best hiked in the spring during balsamroot blooms. During summer, hike in the early morning or evening to beat the heat. Regardless of the season, pack plenty of water, as the trail is fully exposed to the elements.
From the trailhead, which is located 10 minutes from downtown Wenatchee, head up a wide gravel path toward the looming summit. Social trails branch off here and there. When in doubt, stick to the widest, most well-traveled path. Soon, you’ll find yourself between two peaks atop the saddle, staring down on the city and river below. Keep a close eye on kids and dogs up here — it’s a long way down.
3. Dune Peninsula in Tacoma2-3 miles round trip
Photo: GeorgeColePhoto/Shutterstock
Just south of Seattle on Puget Sound, Tacoma has become a destination of its own, and its redeveloped waterfront combines urban convenience with the natural landscape. In just a couple miles of walking, you can go from the trendy shops at Point Ruston to 760 acres of forest, botanical gardens, zoo, and aquarium at Point Defiance Park. Peer over Puget Sound, watching ferries from various vantage points along the way.
Begin from Dune Peninsula Park to fully explore the area. Named after the classic sci-fi novel Dune, written by former Tacoma resident Frank Herbert, this little park offers 11 acres of scenic saltwater shoreline. See if you can find the sandworm public art inspired by the book. The trail bends south around the marina, turning west to ascend a wide pedestrian ramp that leads to the Wilson Way Bridge. This 605-foot-long, 50-foot-tall structure provides wide-open views of Puget Sound with the nearby islands and ferries below. Plus, it has a giant slide.
The “stairs and slides” attraction (locally known as chutes and ladders) is a series of six slides dropping 50 feet from Wilson Way to the waterfront. No child (and few adults) can resist the urge to slide on down. From here, the trail continues across the bridge into Point Defiance Park. Miles of hiking trails await at this crown jewel of Tacoma Metro Parks’ public lands. If you’re visiting during summer, don’t miss the free botanical gardens.
4. Spruce Railroad Trail in Port Angeles2-10 miles round trip
Photo: Sara Valenti/Shutterstock
Maybe it’s a stretch to call this forested trail in Olympic National Park “urban.” But it’s only 30 minutes from Port Angeles, a striking coastal town at the foot of the Olympic Mountains, and the entire trail is paved, making it easily accessible to all. This trail runs five miles one-way along the lakeshore, but its highlights can be reached in a round trip that’s just two miles.
Spruce Railroad Trail is a remarkable section of the 135-mile Olympic Discovery Trail. Tracing the north shore of Lake Crescent, the trail follows an old railroad grade and passes through decommissioned train tunnels at the foot of Pyramid Mountain. This rails-to-trails corridor was built to harvest the trail’s namesake Sitka spruce in 1918. These days, it’s a pleasant walk past mossy maple trees and sword fern to a swimming hole on the wild side of the lake.
After just one mile of hiking, you reach the 450-foot-long McFee Tunnel. Walk through to the other side, hang a left, and discover the trail’s main attraction: Devil’s Punchbowl. Most visitors call it a day here, and it’s easy to see why. With its picturesque footbridge spanning the lake and Olympic Mountain views, the punchbowl makes for an excellent summer swimming hole. Just don’t wade out too far. At 624 feet deep, Lake Crescent is Washington’s second-deepest lake.
5. Deception Pass Headlands in Anacortes3-4 miles round trip
Photo: Roman Khomlyak/Shutterstock
The iconic Deception Pass bridge connecting Fidalgo Island and Whidbey Island stands 180 feet over the swirling waters below — a striking symbol of urbanity surrounded by natural beauty. Welcome to Washington’s most-visited state park. You can walk across the bridge for unrivaled views from the Cascade Mountains to the San Juan Islands. Besides the bridge, tourists come for the evergreen forests, pebble-strewn beaches, and headland heights — no ferry required. Get a taste of it all with a hike at Deception Pass Headlands.
Setting out from Bowman Bay, the trail heads south past an old fishing pier. Climb a 50-foot bluff (or simply walk the beach at low tide) to access Lighthouse and Lottie Points. These small peninsulas both offer short loops with views of the Deception Pass Bridge. Choose Lighthouse Point for a longer trek with high bluffs; Lottie for a shorter excursion.
Backtrack to Bowman Bay in preparation for the grand finale. Following the main trail north, then west leads to Rosario Head. The 60-foot sea cliffs here are arguably the most photogenic place in the park. Not quite Ireland’s Cliffs of Moher — but the closest you’re going to get in northwest Washington. Watch kids and dogs closely around these otherworldly bluffs.
6. Discovery Park in Seattle3-4 miles round trip
Photo: Dan Lewis/Shutterstock
No Washington urban hikes guide is complete without mentioning our favorite park in Seattle: Discovery Park. Visitors can get lost in these 534 acres of forest, meadow, beach, and bluff — all connected by miles of trails. Grab a trail map from the East Parking Lot visitor center to plot your route before hopping on the 2.8-mile loop trail.
Loop highlights include bluff-top views across Puget Sound to the Olympic Mountains and a former military base at Fort Lawton Historic Area. But Discovery Park’s finest feature is located off the main loop, and accessible only by walking. At the west end of the loop trail, take a shore excursion along the South Beach Trail — dropping 200 feet to the waterfront. Here stands West Point Lighthouse. Originally constructed in 1881, the historic lighthouse is still active today.
Visit during sunset for the most dramatic photo opportunities. When the weather is clear, Mount Rainier rises above Seattle’s southern skyline, bathed in alpenglow at nightfall. This scene is as Seattle as it gets. With saltwater at your feet, historic lighthouse by your side, and volcano views beyond, Discovery Park proves itself a world-class urban hiking destination.
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World's fastest trains
Since the first commercial steam locomotive left the station in Leeds in 1812, train travel has become a staple of public transportation. Train tracks crisscross over almost 90,000 miles of the world, transporting humans, animals, and just about everything else.
While airplanes have allowed us to reach faraway places faster and for cheaper than ever before, train travel retains a tangible connection to the miles rushing beneath our feet and the tableau of scenery changing before our eyes. And with the advances of technology, high-speed trains are becoming more common and accessible all over the world as countries try to alleviate over-congested roadways while allowing easy access to their best cities. Meaning these days, the discerning traveler looking to help the environment — and avoid airport security lines at all costs — has many options.
So, for those of us who believe the journey can be as thrilling as the destination, check out these seven high-speed railways and all the stops you’ll want to make along the way.
1. Turkey — Yüksek Hızlı Tren
Photo: Official/Shutterstock
Route: Istanbul to Konya
Fares: From $10
Turkey’s first high-speed trains began operating in 2014, connecting Istanbul to some of the country’s most famous sites. For the more frugal traveler, the no-frills economy seats are affordable and comfortable, while business class supplies electrical outlets, wifi, and personal entertainment screens. Both classes have an option of paying more to include a meal, either breakfast or dinner, depending on the hour of travel. While it is hypothetically possible to buy tickets on the Turkish State Railways website, it can be tricky to navigate if you aren’t a Turkish speaker. Instead, head to the train station kiosk a few days before departure or use a local travel agency to ensure everything goes smoothly.
After exploring Istanbul’s tea gardens and coffee houses, hop on the train to Ankara to experience the capital’s vibrant street life before heading to the Anatolian city of Konya. The city is most famous for its whirling dervishes, an integral part of the Sema ceremony celebrating the life, learnings, and death of the Sufi poet Rumi. If you can, coordinate your visit with the official 10-day Mevlana festival, which takes place annually in mid-December or else enjoy one of the Saturday night dances performed weekly in the Mevlana Cultural Center.
2. Finland-Russia — Allegro
Photo: VR – Yhteisellä matkalla
Route: Helsinki to St. Petersburg
Fares: From $35
Skip the wait at passport control by hitching a ride on this joint venture by the Finnish and Russian governments that aims to cut travel time between Helsinki and St. Petersburg by more than two hours at speeds of up to 140 mph. Expect border control on the train, while in motion, and currency exchange attendants walking the aisles to facilitate your entry even further. With only slightly more room in the first-class cars, buy economy and save your moolah for enjoying the sites along the way.
Begin your trip in Helsinki to spend a few days sampling sustainably-farmed and ethically sourced meat, fish, and produce from the city’s markets and restaurants, six of which have Michelin stars. Consider getting off at the Finnish town of Lahti to take in a world-class orchestra performance at the beautiful Sibelius Hall or stop by the Russian seaside town of Vyborg to stroll through the city’s medieval castle and cobblestone streets. End your trip in the historical mammoth that is St. Petersburg, a sprawling city of canals, palaces, and gardens built by Peter the Great.
3. Italy — Frecciarossa
Photo: Kaband/Shutterstock
Route: Venice to Naples
Fares: From $75
Train travel is an integral part of Italian transportation, even if it is one beset by notorious delays and strikes. If you’re looking to reach your destination in comfort and speed, the Frecciarossa’s sleek cars run up to 190 mph down the length and breadth of the country, connecting many of Italy’s major cities. With five different types of carriages available, each with three fare options ranging from super economy (the cheapest) to base (the most expensive), even the most penny-pinching of travelers can find a seat. And since all carriages have Wi-Fi and outlets, you won’t be missing out too much if you decide not to splurge for the roomier cars. Just beware the meal service: It tends to be a bit lackluster, so you’re better off bringing your own picnic.
Hit some of Italy’s best cities by traveling the length of the boot. Start with Venice and its labyrinthine backstreets that lead you away from the crowds to tucked-away restaurants to get a chilled glass of prosecco or an offering of cicchetti (Italian small plates). Take the Frecciarossa south, stopping along the way in Florence and Rome to explore their beautiful architecture. Finish your trip in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, where the nutrient-rich soil has cultivated centuries of pizza sauce perfection in Naples. Head straight to L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, a family-run establishment dating back to the 1870s, and be sure to take a day to visit the ruins of Pompeii, a stark reminder of the power of volcanoes.
4. South Korea — Korea Train Express
Photo: icosha/Shutterstock
Route: Seoul to Busan
Fares: From $60
Reach speeds up to 218 mph on South Korea’s KTX high-speed trains, the country’s best option for long-distance travel. The system is punctual and accessible for non-Korean speakers, and it’s relatively affordable if you are able to take advantage of KTX’s complicated discounts, which grant savings for those who book early and during the weekdays. You can choose to book a seat in either first or standard class, or pay less for a standing ticket that allows you to grab any open seat — until its rightful owner comes along. The trains have many vending machines instead of a dining car, but the journeys are short so snacks are enough to get you by.
After checking out Seoul, travel one of the country’s original railway routes by catching the southward-bound Gyeongbu line from the capital. If you’re in need of some shopping, get off at Daegu and stroll the streets, aptly named according to which items can be found in them. Don’t miss Herbal Medicine Street to get a sense of the city’s historical legacy as a medical epicenter. Continue your journey onwards to Busan, the end of the line and where the southwestern edge of Korea meets the Sea of Japan.
5. Northwestern Europe — Eurostar
Route: Seoul to Busan
Fares: From $60
Photo: alice-photo/Shutterstock
Route: London to Amsterdam/Paris
Fares: Start from 41 Euros (49 USD)
The Eurostar flies through the Chunnel deep beneath the English Channel at a speed of 186 mph, connecting London with mainland Europe. It’s easily the best way to take in a whirlwind tour of the area’s highlights, with the train dropping you off smack dab in the middle of each city. It helps to book your tickets in advance to get the best deal, or else you may suffer the high-priced consequences of last-minute purchases. There are three classes available — standard, standard premier, and business premier — all of which offer free Wi-Fi and power outlets on the newest trains, but only the two higher classes offer complimentary food and drink service delivered to your seat.
Experience the three grand cities of northwestern Europe by starting in London, the birthplace of your unhealthy Kate Middleton obsession. Board the Eurostar for Amsterdam, where bikes outnumber cars four to one. Spend a few days cycling from one world-class museum to another, then head back south to the City of Bread — I mean, Lights — to relax in Paris’ cafes.
6. China
Photo: cyo bo/Sg=hutterstock
Route: Beijing to Shenzhen
Fares: From $60
China claims to have the longest high-speed rail system in the world with over 14,000 miles of tracks, which would account for two-thirds of the world’s total. For travelers looking to explore this gigantic country, train travel can be cheaper and faster than going by air — not to mention that you’ll see even more of the country just by looking out the window. If you have time and patience, head to the train station to buy your tickets; otherwise a travel agent (such as CTrip) can make the experience a bit smoother. Most trains offer three classes — second, first, and business — with the main difference being the amount of personal space and seat-reclining ability. If you’re booking one of the long-distance rides, it might be worth to pay more.
Travel the length of the country by heading from the historical capital of Beijing to the modern landscape of Shanghai’s futuristic skyscrapers. Be sure to get some steamed street dumplings before heading on to Shenzhen, a UNESCO Creative City dubbed the Silicon Valley of China.
7. Japan — Nozomi Shinkansen
Photo: Vacancylizm/Shutterstock
Route: Tokyo to Hakata
Fares: From $250
No list would be complete without the country that started it all. The bullet train first debuted in Japan in 1964, and the country has been pushing the boundaries of railway possibilities for the past 60 years, with recent tests reaching up to 375 mph. While no commercial train has reached those speeds yet, travelers can see the country’s main cities at a healthy clip of 198 mph on the Shinkansen extensive lines. Choose a seat in the green car for more space and comfort, or else stick with the standard car to save your yen. Tickets can be purchased from an agent or automated machine at the train station.
From the futuristic wonderland of Tokyo, head west to steep in the traditions of Kyoto’s teahouses and sculptured gardens. Keep an eye out of the train for one of the best views of Mt. Fuji, as you continue your journey towards Hakata, where the city’s eponymous ramen noodles are a must-try.
8. Morocco — Al Boraq
Photo: CatwalkPhotos/Shutterstock
Route: Tangier to Casablanca
Fares: From $16
In 2018, Morocco’s Al Boraq railway became Africa’s first high-speed train. Though plans are in place to extend the rail system to service the tourist centers of Marakkech and Agadir, the train currently connects the port city of Tangier on Morocco’s northern tip to Casablanca about a third of the way down the country’s Atlantic coast, servicing the capital city of Rabat along the way. On par with France’s TGV and Japan’s Shinkansen railways, Al Boraq reaches an impressive maximum operating speed just shy of 200 mph.
Make the most of your Moroccan train travels by hugging the coast from the Sea of Gibraltar to Morocco’s economic center, where you’ll trade Tangier’s whitewashed medina for Casablanca’s French colonial downtown. After a requisite tour of the Hassan II Mosque, and maybe a quick shopping trip at the Morocco Mall, the largest shopping center in Africa, lean into the city’s Oscar-winning reputation by visiting the Casablanca-inpsired piano bar Rick’s Café.
A version of this article was previously published on May 10, 2018, and was updated on June 28, 2021, with more information.
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Pilot YouTuber gives a tour of secret room under airplane cockpit
If you’d like to know what goes on behind the scenes of your flight, YouTuber and Airbus pilot bjornpilot has some inside gossip for you. In one of his most recent videos, he gives a special tour of the Airbus 350 and reveals some secrets about the aircraft. It turns out there’s more than what meets the eye, like a rest compartment for the crew and a secret room under the cockpit.
Bjorn starts his secret tour of the aircraft by showing the rest compartment for the crew (pilot included) — it’s a tiny area made up of one seat and two beds separated by curtains. But the real juicy stuff comes when Bjorn shows a mysterious narrow trapdoor inside the cockpit that leads to a secret room via a skinny ladder: the avionics compartment.
The avionics room is filled from floor to ceiling with computers that operate the plane. It’s basically like a huge server room. From the avionics room, available only to authorized staff, one can also access the landing gears and the cargo hold.
For more aviation secrets that regular passengers don’t know about, check out Bjorn’s YouTube channel.
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This viral TikTok video has all the best tips for flying with your cat
Our pets can feel like some of our closest friends. For one TikTok user, Steven Squire, his 13-month-old cat Mando is also a beloved travel companion, as documented in a now-viral video detailing the pair’s first plane ride together.
In the video, which has almost 12 million views at the time of writing, Squire shares his advice on flying with a pet cat, from picking a pet-friendly airline to choosing the right carry-on. For this particular trip, Squire booked a Delta flight from Salt Lake City to San Diego, stocked a well-ventilated soft shell Travel Cat carrier with easy-to-pack WhiskWare containers full of kibble and water, and found plenty of opportunities to let Mando stretch his legs in the airport.
@cat.mandoI had anxiety too, but don’t worry and your cat can do it! #cattravel #howto #cattips #catplane #foryoupage
♬ Super Mario Sunshine – Delfino Plaza – Super Guitar Bros
Not just concerned with Mando’s comfort, Squire was also careful to consider his fellow passengers. “I made sure to ask if anyone in the front row was allergic,” he told Travel + Leisure. “No one was, and they were very happy to meet Mando. If anyone had been allergic, I would have asked the flight attendant to move us to a new seat.”
Squire’s video of their first flight is not the first footage of him and Mando to have gone viral. A neighbor previously uploaded a TikTok of the duo out for a walk that racked up millions of views, inspiring Squire to start his own TikTok account. He has since posted several videos chronicling his adventures with Mando, from a trip to the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah to posts addressing questions like whether cats’ ears pop mid-flight. Squire even posted a follow-up video to his most-watched post sharing tips on flying with a pet dog.
As for Mando, all that internet celebrity might be going to his head. “He’s started perching himself on the highest piece of furniture in the room, which I’ve been told is a cat’s way of saying they’re the alpha of the house,” Squire said. “So, the fame might be getting to Mando just a little bit!”
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