Matador Network's Blog, page 645
May 27, 2021
NYC’s The Vessel is set to reopen, but solo visitors will not be allowed to enter
The popular tourist attraction The Vessel at Hudson Yards in New York City is set to reopen this Friday, May 28, 2021, but with restrictions in place.
The Vessel, a 150-feet high viewpoint designed by famed designer Thomas Heatherwick, was closed indefinitely in January after a person committed suicide at the location. Three people have died by suicide at The Vessel in less than one year. The imminent reopening of the attraction comes with strict protocols to keep visitors safe.
Single or solo visitors are no longer allowed. Instead, admissions have created a “buddy system” that will grant entry only to parties of two or more guests. Strict security will be in place at the attraction, and enhanced screening procedures will attempt to “detect high-risk behaviors,” a representative from Hudson Yards owner, Related Companies, told the New York Post.
Along with these changes, at the entrance and on the Vessel tickets, “there will be a National Suicide Prevention Lifeline message developed in partnership with the Born This Way Foundation, Lady Gaga’s nonprofit mental-wellness organization,” according to USA TODAY. 
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Here’s how to make the most of Belize — from jungle to coast
Belize is on everyone’s radar these days, and it’s no surprise that the country has become such a desired destination. It offers all the benefits of the Caribbean, with a gleaming coastline and endless ways to immerse culturally, with the adventurous activities and wildlife for which Central America is known. Add the facts that English is the national language and that it’s a quick flight from the US, and Belize becomes the perfect tropical getaway. That’s especially true in a mid/post-COVID world, where outdoor-focused travel reigns supreme.
Belize is such a hotspot that Marriott just debuted its very first property there, Alaska Airlines announced it will soon be offering Belize routes, and United Airlines more than doubled its existing routes from Houston while adding new departure airports. And as two new port projects near Belize City break ground, the cruise industry is poised to bring more tourists to the country.
Still, for all of Belize’s modern appeal, it remains a culturally diverse and community-oriented country of some 400,000 people where vintage charm defines the decor, and a lack of hurriedness sets the pace. It’s a place to relax, explore, and make friends.
Belize may be a tiny country, but there’s no limit to what it can offer every type of visitor. Here is a sampling of where to stay in Belize to make the most of a trip to the Jewel of Central America.
Ambergris Caye
Photo: Mr. James Kelley/Shutterstock
Ambergris Caye has historically been Belize’s main tourist destination, with plenty of water activities, restaurants, and nightlife. The island’s main town of San Pedro features most of the action, but development in recent years has extended to its north and south, expanding ways to have fun and places to stay.
Even when compared with recent additions, Victoria House, south of San Pedro, remains one of the best options for staying in Belize. The expansive beachfront boutique property offers 42 luxurious rooms of varying types, from pool villas to romantic casitas. Their Palmilla Restaurant is renowned for its menu (including a hard-to-find Pimm’s Cup on the cocktail menu), with the spa capitalizing on the hotel’s quiet, out-of-the-way locale for added relaxation. Unless 45 minutes is what you consider walking distance to town, golf carts are available to rent directly from the property.
Once lodging is situated, there is so much to explore. Snorkeling is excellent along the protected Belize Barrier Reef — the second largest reef system in the world — either at the popular Hol Chan Marine Reserve or up north at Mexico Rocks, where fewer tourists tread. Those seeking relaxation should check out Secret Beach, a very not secret spot on the lagoon side that has been developed into a beachy destination in recent years.
Finally, don’t miss out on the culinary juggernaut that is Ambergris Caye. Belize Food Tours makes it easy to sample a range of local flavors during their fun and informative tours, while Chef Toshiya Tsujimoto has raised the bar for sushi with his restaurant, Jyoto (which has a counterpart in inland San Ignacio — Sky Sushi Bar). End the night with drinks at the newly opened Gypsy Restaurant and Cocktail Bartique, or head to Havana Cigars for the highest quality spirits on the island.
Placencia
Photo: Simon Dannhauer/Shutterstock
It wasn’t too long ago that Placencia was among the more secretive destinations in Belize. This peninsula community is lined with high-end resorts, culminating in the village of Placencia itself. This is a gateway area for many of the other cays and private islands, with as many water-based activities as San Pedro but without the crowds.
Chabil Mar is an especially enticing place to stay here, channeling the relaxed Caribbean vibe that defines the area. The beachfront resort is draped in colorful bougainvillea, with each villa accessed by a separate entrance — great for COVID travel. A unique aspect of this resort is the ability to request dining anywhere on property, whether it’s in the room, out on the water, or on the sandy beach.
Most Placencia activities are based around the water, like snorkeling at the Silk Cayes or going SCUBA diving. However, it’s near the Cockscomb Basin, a lush jungle known for being home to jaguars. DTOURZ is an exhilarating adventure into the rainforest complete with looking for the big cats, tubing on the river, and exploring waterfalls. Intrepid travelers will especially love the nighttime tour. On weekends, guide/owner Doyle Gardiner operates Doyle’s Smoke Yaad back in Placencia, a pandemic creation showcasing his cooking talents.
There is, even more, to see in Southern Belize beyond Placencia. Head to Hopkins to dive deep into the Garifuna culture, or head all the way south to Punta Gorda to experience Belize’s most remote beachfront region. Maya culture remains prominent in this area and is best explored through the Maya Villa homestay network.
San Ignacio
Photo: Milonk/Shutterstock
Belize’s inland is primed for adventurous travel, with extensive cave networks, birding and wildlife spotting, and even a cenote called the Inland Blue Hole that rivals the well-known version at sea. Though most of these places and activities can be accessed within a day from all the major towns in Belize, given the country’s small size, San Ignacio town is at the heart of it all.
Intrepid and luxury travelers alike looking for where to stay in Belize should set their sights on Chaa Creek, a boutique resort amid 400 acres of the jungle not too far from town. Beloved for their butterfly farm,an elegant spa, and commitment to protecting the environment, Chaa Creek brings their guests right into the heart of the wilderness without sacrificing any comforts. Guests also love this hotel for its horseback riding, rum infusions, and night safari.
From there, travelers can visit various Maya ruins like Xunantunich, an impressive site overlooking the river basin, or Caracol, which remains the tallest manmade structure in Belize. Perhaps the most beloved activity in the area is the tour of the ATM, as the ancient Maya Actun Tunichil Muknal cavern is locally known. The tour takes visitors through a cave system still populated with the skeletons of Maya culture’s past. Cameras (including phones) are not allowed inside due to a past guest dropping theirs on a skull, so this is one experience that must be seen to be believed.
Island experience
Photo: Simon Dannhauer/Shutterstock
Although Ambergris Caye is an island, it’s much larger and more populated than the hundreds of tiny spits of land peppering Belize’s coast. Though many of these tiny cays are undeveloped, plenty has been built up into places that entice those wondering where to stay in Belize — ranging from glamping to ultra-luxe.
Ray Caye is an island that falls in between, leaning towards luxury. About an hour’s boat ride from Placencia, Ray Caye offers a modern, comfortable island experience with access to the best snorkeling, fishing, and other water activities in the area. Plenty of guests find no need to even leave the island, instead snorkeling around its perimeter or taking a relaxing ride on a Hobie Cat sailboat with Rasta or one of the other onsite guides.
Once on a private island, activities like exploring the mainland become limited, especially when boats back and forth are only scheduled on certain days of the week. This is something to discuss in advance with the desired island’s management, to ensure that your Belize vacation incorporates everything you want to experience.
Of course, it’s safe to say that after making friends in San Pedro, relaxing in Placencia, going wild in San Ignacio, and getting away from it all on a private island, another trip to Belize will be in the cards.
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Giant tortoise believed to have gone extinct over 100 years ago found in Galápagos
Galápagos National Park has confirmed that a tortoise found in 2019 on Fernandina Island in Galápagos is a specimen of the Chelonoidis phantasticus species, one that was considered extinct over 100 years ago.
After discovering the specimen in 2019, a team of Yale University scientists led by Dr. Gisella Caccone performed tests to determine the tortoise’s exact species.
“Yale University revealed the results of genetic studies and the respective DNA comparison that was made with a specimen extracted in 1906,” the Galápagos Park said in a statement on Facebook.
Photo: Parque Nacional Galápagos/Facebook
Galápagos National Park was created “to commemorate the first centenary of the publication of the book ‘The Origin of Species’ by Charles Darwin, who inspired his famous theory of evolution by natural selection based on observations made during his stays in these Ecuadorian islands,” according to their website. The park is home to many unique species only found on the island, including “more than 45 species of endemic birds, 42 of reptiles, 15 of mammals and 79 of fish.” Giant tortoises are the most famous of the species found in Galápagos.
According to Galápagos Conservancy, the islands are home to 15 species of giant tortoise. One species went extinct in 2012 after the natural death of its only specimen, nicknamed “Lonesome George.”
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May 26, 2021
The historic, scenic, and tiny South African towns you need to visit
A visit to South Africa usually involves a trip to the photogenic city of Cape Town, perhaps a quick stopover in Johannesburg, and a safari in a nearby game reserve. Yet even as more international travelers discover what makes South Africa an iconic tourist destination, some of the most charming areas remain unknown by tourists. Small towns in South Africa such as Darling, Dullstroom, and Nottingham Road and their surrounding areas should be on your must-visit list.
Unfortunately, given South Africa’s tragic history many of these towns’ documented past is predominantly colonial. During Apartheid, people of color were relegated to “townships,” which are primarily situated in big cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town. Since the Group Areas Act was abolished in 1991, these towns are no longer only inhabited by white people. They are far more integrated yet still not as diverse as the big cities since they are remote and offer fewer employment opportunities. However, there are many Cultural Villages around South Africa that offer tourists a greater insight into ancient native South African cultures such as Xhosa, Ndebele, and Zulu — and we’ve listed those you can visit by some of these towns.
Clanwilliam
Photo: Grobler du Preez/Shutterstock
One of the oldest small towns in South Africa, Clanwilliam’s history dates back to 1660 when Dutch settlers first reached the Olifants River. Olifants is Dutch for elephants, and the river is so named for the large number of elephants the settlers spotted on the river’s banks. Situated about 120 miles north of Cape Town, Clanwilliam is surrounded by the Cederberg mountain range and is the only town in the world where rooibos tea is planted and cultivated.
Tea enthusiasts will feel right at home in the world’s rooibos capital, where they can visit Rooibos Ltd, the largest producer and distributor of the beloved caffeine-free beverage. At its visitor center, House of Rooibos, guests can sip on a comforting cup of rooibos in an old-school tea room while they learn about the drink’s history.
In the surrounding mountainous region of Cederberg, you’ll find many fascinating caves and rock formations. The Stadsaal Caves and Truitjieskraal are great destinations for rock climbers and avid photographers. These ancient caves are home to some incredible examples of centuries-old rock art from the San people, the oldest inhabitants of Southern Africa, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. Similarly, the three-mile Sevilla Rock Art Trail visits nine sites of San paintings along a scenic, walkable route dotted with wildflowers in the spring. You may even encounter small game like springbok and eland or baboons and dassies, which resemble guinea pigs.
ClarensPhoto: Grobler du Preez/Shutterstock
Known as the “Jewel of the Free State,” Clarens is about a three-hour drive from Johannesburg, making it a popular destination for those seeking a break from the city. Clarens is undoubtedly one of the prettiest towns in the country, with its pristine rivers, green mountains, and seasonal beauty that ranges from spring blossoms to orange and red Lombardy poplars in autumn. The town of Clarens was established in 1912; however, San paintings and much older dinosaur fossils indicate life in the area dating back to the Jurrasic period.
The town of Clarens is a bit of a haven for artists, with plenty of galleries and creative stores scattered around the village. Autumn is a wonderful time to experience the artsy nature of Clarens with yearly art exhibitions, food stalls, flea markets, concerts and the celebrated annual Clarens Craft Beer Festival.
If it’s an adventure you seek, try your hand at white-water rafting along the crystal clear waters of the Ash river, or unleash your inner Mad Max on one of the many quad biking or 4×4 trails in the area. For some peace and quiet, take a hike along a picturesque hiking trail, many of which are situated in the nearby Golden Gate Highlands National Park. Clarens is also the perfect place to go freshwater fishing and is well-known for its ideal trout fishing conditions.
Photo: mbrand85/Shutterstock
Just past the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, at the foot of huge sandstone mountains is Basotho Cultural Village. Basotho beautifully explores the Southern Sotho lifestyle and architecture dating from the sixteenth century to the present. Take a tour through the village and sample local beer; watch demonstrations of hut building, basket making and traditional dances; get a glimpse into the future from the chief’s Ngaka (bone thrower); try traditional Sotho meals before spending a night in one of the village’s rondavels.
Pilgrim’s Rest
Photo: Jens_Bee/Shutterstock
This provincial heritage site in Mpumalanga has not changed much since its gold mining heyday in the nineteenth century, with much of the architecture remaining untouched. Some historical sites to see include gorgeous old churches dating back to 1846, various museums, and a cemetery of graves that marks where those that did not find fortune on the goldfields now rest.
Gold panning is still practiced today in Pilgrim’s Rest. To find out more about this practice and even try your hand at it yourself, visit the Diggings Site, a complete reconstruction of the gold rush valley. There are plenty of souvenir shops around the town selling locally made pottery, stained glass, and custom-made goods. There are also many traditional shebeens (taverns), pubs, and restaurants to spend an evening.
The scenery around Pilgrim’s Rest is quite spectacular and ideal for activities like hiking, horse riding, bird watching, mountain biking, and golfing. Nearby, the Mount Sheba Nature Reserve is one of Mpumalanga’s premier forest birding destinations. A little farther away is Blyde River Canyon, the world’s third-largest canyon.
Less than an hour’s drive from Pilgrim’s Rest is Shangana Cultural Village, one of South Africa’s most celebrated traditional villages. Shangana is home to the Shangaan people, and by visiting this village you’ll be supporting over 100 jobs in this rural area. Shangana is surrounded by ancient trees and is centered around the vibrant Marula Market, where you’ll find spectacular locally made crafts and curios. daytime tours can be arranged to learn more about the local culture and history. The evening festival hosted by Chief Soshangane includes a choir, actors, dancers, a fire circle, and a feast prepared by the chief’s wife.
Graaff-Reinet
Photo: Simon_g/Shutterstock
Graaff-Reinet is a town that has been home to many notable South Africans, including politicians, scientists, artists, athletes and academics. It has more national monuments than any of the big cities or other small towns in South Africa. This Eastern Cape town is also the fourth oldest town in the country.
With a recorded urban history dating back to 1786 and a collection of dinosaur fossils to view at the Old Library Museum, there are many fascinating historical sites to see in Graaff-Reinet. The Durch Reformed Church is an extravagant display of Victorian Gothic architecture. At the same time, Reinet House, Old Library, Old Residency, Urquhart House and the Military History Museum were all built in the early 1800s and showcase the town’s heritage with displays that range from old dolls and photographs to old furniture and rock art.
Just eight miles outside of the town is the awe-inspiring Valley of Desolation. Situated within the Camdeboo National Park, home to 43 mammal species, the Valley of Desolation is a collection of spectacular piled dolerite columns. These rock formations result from volcanic and erosive forces over 100 years and contribute to the valley’s breathtaking sunsets when they turn stunning shades of red. There are three hiking trails to choose from, including a short one-hour hike and an overnight hike. You’ll be rewarded with expansive views of the Great Karoo plains.
Darling
Photo: Grobler du Preez/Shutterstock
Darling makes for a fabulous day trip from Cape Town at just over an hour’s drive away. This town is as endearing as its name, known for its lively festivals that celebrate all forms of art, from music and theater to fine foods and wine. The Darling Wildflower Show displays the finest in Cape Fynbos, the regional shrubland that blazes with blooms every spring, while the surrounding areas burst with colorful wildflowers.
Famous South African satirist Pieter-Dirk Uys turned the old Darling railway station into Evita se Perron, a quirky theater venue named after the performer’s wildly popular alter ego, Evita Bezuidenhout. The 80-seat theater houses a restaurant and bar that serves up traditional “farmer’s food” with a twist and stocks their very own range of boutique wines. And the exhibition hall and garden displays offer a humorous look at South Africa’s political history.
Stepping into this town can often feel like stepping into a different century with its Victorian houses, tree-lined streets, and occasional horseback riders traveling through. The Darling Museum gives visitors a glimpse into the actual 18th-century version of the town with displays that replicate the old houses, post office, church, and even the Darling Butter and Darling Creamery that still stand today. A fun way to explore Darling is to sign up for the museum’s Mystery Trail, where you’ll be given a map and riddles to find hidden treasures.
Photo: SSchietekat/Shutterstock
For more Old World charm that dates all the way back to the creation of humanity, a visit to the nearby award-winning !Khwa ttu San Heritage Centre is a one-of-a-kind experience. The only San-owned and operated cultural center offers a look into the oral and spiritual heritage of the San people. There are two 90-minute tours offered; the Hunting Trail, which includes a visit to a replica of San village and insight into how San people hunted and tracked animals, and the Gathering Trail, which explores the San’s use of traditional and medicinal plants.
Each tour can be done on foot or on a safari vehicle and includes a photographic viewing of the San’s recorded history of tragic dispossession and a lesson in San languages (known by foreigners as “clicking” languages). Overnight accommodation is available, and the center also houses a gift shop selling rare handcrafted gifts and a restaurant that serves locally sourced, seasonal dishes.
Dullstroom
Photo: mattbates9/Shutterstock
At 2,100 meters above sea level, Dullstroom is the highest of the small towns in South Africa — making its climate significantly different. Dullstroom is just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Johannesburg and is halfway to the world-renowned Kruger National Park, the country’s top safari destination. The subtropical highland climate makes Dullstroom relatively cool throughout the year and makes it the only place in South Africa where beech and elm trees grow.
Dullstroom is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts, being one of South Africa’s premier fly fishing destinations that is also popular with hikers, mountain bikers, horse riders, and birders. The town is also the proud home of a championship golf course designed by former professional golfer, Ernie Els.
There are plenty of culinary experiences to be had in Dullstroom, with an array of acclaimed restaurants and pubs lining the streets. Wild About Whiskey claims to be South Africa’s best-stocked whiskey bar, while old-school pub Duck and Trout hosts live music, quiz nights, and the yearly Ducktober Beer Fest. The Dullstroom Winter Festival is held every July and hosts food stalls, art exhibitions, and live music from well-known local artists.
Hogsback
Photo: Photogenie_sa/Shutterstock
In the center of the Eastern Cape province lies the magical town of Hogsback. Hogsback appears to have been plucked straight from a fairy-tale and is often claimed to be Tolkien’s inspiration behind Lord of the Rings, particularly for the fictional forest of Mirkwood. The peaceful village is situated high up in the Amathole mountains and is surrounded by centuries-old indigenous Afro-montane forests.
Hogsback gets its name from three mountain peaks that resemble the wild hogs that roam the forest. Many hiking trails on and around these mountains offer glorious waterfall and forest views. Horse riding, abseiling, and mountain biking offer some more adventurous ways to explore the region.
The otherworldly atmosphere of Hogsback has made it a popular place for artists and creatives to reside. One of the most acclaimed artworks in the area is the Voice of the Earth Eco-Shrine. This award-winning outdoor shrine was designed by Diane Graham and features paintings, mosaics, and sculptures.
Just 30 minutes outside of Hogsback lies the picture-perfect Elundini Cultural Village. This community-run hostel aims to give visitors a taste of Xhosa culture, offering Xhosa lessons, traditional bread-making classes, and village tours. Elundini Cultural Village is entirely eco-friendly, with all of their rondavels built traditionally with cow and dung walls and floors and thatched roofs.
Nottingham Road
Photo: Notties Hotel
Twenty minutes from the majestic Drakensberg mountains lies Nottingham Road, affectionately referred to as “Notties” by the friendly locals. Nottingham Road is the heart of the Midlands Meander, a tourist route through Kwa-Zulu Natal that directs visitors to stunning, off-the-beaten-track locations full of fun outdoor and cultural attractions. With the natural beauty surrounding every inch of Nottingham Road, the area is popular for fly fishing and horse riding.
Amongst the rolling green hills and farmland, there is plenty of country charm to be found. Stepping into the town’s old country taverns, which farmers are known to frequent, will give you a taste of country living in cozy spaces that feel like home. The Nottingham Road Brewery is a local favorite that independently produces a wide range of naturally brewed beers, with names like the lager “Tiddly Toad” and the pilsner “Pie-eyed Possum.” Notties is also home to a vibrant restaurant scene, luxury accommodation, and quirky arts and crafts stores.
With beautiful accommodation on every corner, you won’t struggle to find a place to lay your head. However, if you’d like a slice of history with a side of the paranormal, the centenary Nottingham Road Hotel is a must-visit. The legendary hotel has been a lively meeting place for travelers and locals alike and houses a historic pub with many stories to tell. With this much history, it is no wonder that Notties Hotel is rumored to be haunted. Charlotte, who was once apparently a “lady of loose morals,” is now a gentle, houseproud ghost who rearranges clothes and tidies rooms and flower arrangements.
Prince Albert
Photo: MD_Photography/Shutterstock
Prince Albert is located about four hours outside of Cape Town and on the way to the glorious Garden Route. The town is situated at the foot of the Swartberg Pass, a national monument that offers sweeping views of the Karoo. Prince Albert is also on the Swartberg Circle Route linking the Great Karoo to the Klein Karoo.
Prince Albert is sunny all year round, hot in the summer, and mild in the winter — making it a popular stargazing destination as well as lending itself to outdoor activities such as hiking, birding, and mountain biking. The town is home to many beautifully preserved Dutch, Karoo, and Victorian buildings, 19 of which are national monuments. The Fransie Pienaar Museum acts as the local tourism center and is home to one of the world’s largest fossil collections. You can learn more about the town’s history and even meet the town’s ghosts by joining the Prince Albert Ghost Walk.
You’ll discover authentic Karoo cuisine in Prince Albert, where you can sample local delicacies such as Karoo lamb, cheese, olives and figs. If you visit between January and May, go to Weltevrede Fig Farm to see around 2000 beautiful fig trees in full bloom.
Tulbagh
Photo: Hannes Vos/Shutterstock
Take a scenic 90-minute drive from Cape Town, and you’ll discover a whole new world in Tulbagh. Tulbagh is an excellent place for those who like wine with its proximity to the Cape Winelands and multiple wineries dotted around the village. The Tulbagh Wine Route has many wineries, including both intimate family-run and award-winning boutique cellars.
Surrounded by mountains and valleys, the Tulbagh basin experiences extreme temperatures from scorching summers to snow-capped mountains in winter. This Mediterranean-like climate makes Tulbagh a sought-after viticultural destination. Some of the wine estates date back to the 1700s, while the more recently established farms still display the same old-world charm.
With natural beauty around every corner, it’s not uncommon to spot fascinating fauna like baboons, foxes, antelope, and even leopards on the mountains. Horse and pony rides offer a unique way to explore the wine valley, while there are various walking and hiking trails in the northern part of Tulbagh. Tulbagh hosts various events every year, including a horse and wildflower show, a winter Christmas village in June, and the Spring Arts Festival in spring.
Parys
Photo: Grobler du Preez/Shutterstock
Did you know that South Africa has its very own Eiffel Tower? Parys is, you guessed it, the Afrikaans translation of “Paris.” The eccentric town of Parys is undoubtedly not what you would expect as the Paris of South Africa, but that’s what makes it so unique. It takes just over an hour to drive to Parys from Johannesburg, making it another convenient spot for a break from the city.
Not only does Parys house a six-and-a-half-foot-tall Eiffel Tower, but it’s also home to a Stonehenge. The tranquil Stonehenge River Lodge greets guests with a replica of the Stonehenge monument and offers accommodation in a traditional rustic, African-designed lodge with views of the Vaal River. Walking along the town’s main street will reveal plenty of one-of-a-kind stores containing rare antiques, clothes, jewelry, art, and a variety of friendly eateries and bars.
Parys is located within the Vredefort Dome World Heritage Site, the largest and second-oldest meteorite impact site on Earth. Hiking the Vredefort Meteorite trails will reveal an array of plants, birds, reptiles, and animals within its bushveld, riverine, and forest ecosystems. Along the way, you’ll discover San rock art, Boer war memorials, and relics from the late 1880s Gold Rush era.
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How penne alla vodka became New Jersey’s signature Italian-American dish
When I moved to New Jersey in 2015, I started attending what felt like an endless parade of first birthday parties, baby showers, and weddings. These events included many similar elements: Confetti filled balloons, a folding table stacked with bottles of generic white and red wines, and a buttercream cake. The most consistent aspect, however, is probably the menu. It’s destined to be Italian-American cuisine — sometimes served by a server, but more often at a buffet — and penne alla vodka is nearly always the main course.
Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, I didn’t have much experience with the nuances of Italian-American food, so penne vodka surprised and excited my palate. I love the tang and the creaminess of the tomato sauce, captured in the humble ridged penne pasta. The soft orange hue of the sauce heaped in a metal platter, flecked with chunks of tomato or cubes of pancetta came to symbolize a feeling of both comfort and celebration.
For the first part of my life, I never felt a special affinity for Italian food. Now I depend on penne vodka for that precious, rare feeling of true satisfaction after a meal. I crave the dish equally on special occasions or a late-night after a chaotic day at work — the type of day when you don’t want to do anything but eat and then pass out in bed with the remote in your hand.
It’s believed penne alla vodka was created in the 70s or 80s, though the exact origin story is unknown, according to Serious Eats. What is clear to anyone who enjoys the dish is that the flavors are so simple and depend on the most basic ingredients. That utter lack of any fancy or artisanal ingredients or cooking techniques is in part what’s behind the dish’s immense popularity. While some basic meals benefit from the upscale craftsmanship of a professional chef (like steak and potatoes, for instance), penne alla vodka is not one of them.
Photo: BrandonKleinPhoto/Shutterstock
The vodka sauce in question consists of those fundamental ingredients that are, arguably, the building blocks of the most delightful dishes, especially in Italian-American cuisine: Cream, garlic, cheese, and butter, tempered by the acidity of tomatoes. Many recipes will encourage simmering the rind from a wedge of Parmesan cheese in the sauce to add a boost of salty, umami flavor, or to add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat (and, of course, there’s the namesake splash of vodka). However, it’s really those tomatoes that are key. They prevent the sauce from turning out so rich that you can only take a few bites of the dish before feeling full.
New Jersey has a near-romantic attachment to its home-grown tomatoes — sweet and acidic ruby red bulbs that are (literally) bursting with the juicy flavors of summer. Thanks to the ideal climate and soil conditions for tomato farming, even the most unassuming delis and supermarkets in the state carry high-quality tomatoes that outrank most other tomatoes in the country.
Of course, penne vodka isn’t even made with New Jersey tomatoes. The best recipes call for Italian-grown San Marzano tomatoes. But one reason that vodka sauce might have taken root at buffet stations around the state is that New Jerseysians are already accustomed to the flavors of tomato-based pasta sauces.
And those pasta sauces are all important. It might actually be the sheer volume of sauce that most clearly defines Italian dishes developed in America versus Italian dishes that actually originate in Italy.
“In a lot of traditional Italian cuisine, while some dishes are sauced, it’s on the lighter side,” says Marcella De Feo, owner of Valente’s Cucina in Haddonfield, New Jersey. “But when you go to New Jersey or New York to an Italian-American restaurant, you get a lot of sauce on a pasta dish.”
De Feo began his cooking career on the Jersey Shore at an upscale Italian-American restaurant in Wildwood Crest. Still, his palate is more accustomed to the cuisine of Abruzzo, the region in Italy where his family originally hails from. De Feo opened his restaurant in 2017 and named it for his mother, who passed away in 2004. Instead of cooking more mainstream Italian-American dishes, he decided to focus the menu on the food of his ancestral homeland, like lamb ragu and salsiccia (Italian sausage) served with whipped ricotta.
For De Feo, what defines traditional Italian cuisine is that it uses fresh ingredients specific to a particular region. For instance, in the mountainous terrain of Abruzzo, the resident goat will often be the main course. As the region of Italy changes, so do the ingredients — and that’s the exact transformation that occurred when Italian people began immigrating to the United States: Family recipes adapted to the ingredients available in their new home.
Penne vodka is one of the most prominent dishes in Italian-American food — dishes like veal marsala and chicken Parmesan also make the list.
Italian-American cuisine, De Feo says, “evolved out of the core concepts of Italian cuisine” but should be considered its own category. He adds that there’s value in both, though the two shouldn’t be conflated. To understand the difference between traditional Italian cuisine and its Italian-American relative, you must start by looking at the ingredients.
Photo: Ezume Images/Shutterstock
For one thing, dairy is much more prominent in Italian-American cuisine because of the large milk and cheese industries in the country. The American palate is primed to love the richness and fattiness of creamy, buttery sauces.
“It’s comfort food,” De Feo says. “The winter can be terrible [on the East Coast], so to have something that is carb-heavy and warming — it’s kind of natural that a chicken parm or a vodka sauce would become popular.”.
Another centrally important differentiator is the meat used in Italian-American dishes. While somewhere like Abruzzo favors lamb, goat, and sometimes pork, you’ll see a broader range of options, including beef and chicken in Italian-American food.
“In New York and New Jersey, it’s a completely different animal, literally,” De Feo says. “In areas that were severely impoverished, Italians couldn’t afford cow and pig, even the farmers who farmed these animals. The cost of meat was so much more reasonable and so much more plentiful [in America], and I think that ultimately led to what I consider a new cuisine.”
There’s another element at play here: Italian-American cuisine is accessible and inexpensive to make. “It’s something that people can easily make in their homes with just a handful of ingredients in very limited time, so it’s appealing to home cooks and chefs for that reason,” De Feo adds. “And maybe you throw in crushed red pepper and burn off some vodka in it, and it takes it to a whole other level of intrigue.”
At his restaurant, De Feo wouldn’t necessarily add vodka to one of his dishes to elevate it, but he understands how pleasurable and satisfying these dishes are. Italian-American food might not be traditional to Italy, but it doesn’t have to be made with ingredients pulled directly from the mountains of Abruzzo to be considered authentic. Anyone who has been to a baby shower in New Jersey knows there’s hardly any dish that represents the state’s tastes better than penne alla vodka (OK, maybe a chicken parm sandwich is a close contender).
Even if there are some food purists out there who’ll argue that conversations about Italian food should never include a pasta dish like penne vodka — who cares? What makes penne vodka so beloved is not that it perfectly imitates traditional Italian food, but that it comforts people and makes us feel good. In the end, that matters more than debating its exact origins.
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Walk 100 feet above the forest among California’s redwoods at this new attraction
You can now experience California’s redwood trees, the tallest trees in the world, in a whole new way. Sequoia Park Zoo will debut its latest attraction, the Redwood Sky Walk, a series of bridges and platforms set up high in the sky among redwood trees, on June 4, 2021.
[image error]Photo: Sequoia Park Zoo/Facebook
The Redwood Sky Walk is the longest skywalk in the Western United States as it stretches for one-quarter of a mile. The highest point in the sky walk reaches over 100 feet above the forest floor.
The Redwood Skywalk is ADA accessible except for its ‘adventure leg’ portion, which is 369 feet long and 36 inches wide with “open mesh decking.” This section of the Redwood Sky Walk isn’t for the faint-hearted as visitors will feel more exposed, aware of the height, and the bridge will sway along with your steps, the wind, and others.
[image error]Photo: Sequoia Park Zoo/Facebook
While the bridges and platforms are attached to the majestic trees, the attraction does not damage them in any way. “The experience is intentionally integrated and complements the natural environment … The technique and mechanics of these attachments have been designed specifically to ensure negligible impact on the trees to which they are anchored and provide room for them to continue to grow unimpeded,” the official website explains.
[image error]Photo: Sequoia Park Zoo/Facebook
The opening weekend of the Redwood Sky Walk will include activities such as live painting events, a yoga class on the sky walk, and an introduction to forest bathing.
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Americans who are abroad can now travel back to the US on their expired passports
On Monday, the US Department of State announced that US citizens currently overseas with expired passports can now travel back to the United States.
US citizens whose passport has expired on or after January 1, 2020, will be able to use their expired US passport for travel to the US up until December 31, 2021. However, only those meeting the following requirements will be able to travel on an expired passport:
You are a U.S. citizenYou are currently abroad seeking direct return to the United StatesYou are flying directly to the United States, a United States territory, or have only short-term transit (“connecting flights”) through a foreign country on your direct return to the United States or to a United States TerritoryYour expired passport was originally valid for 10 years. Or, if you were 15 years of age or younger when the passport was issued, your expired passport was valid for five yearsYour expired passport is undamagedYour expired passport is unalteredYour expired passport is in your possessionThough US citizens can travel on their expired passport back to the US, they cannot use their expired passport for travel to foreign countries or any other international travel destinations.
The state department requires US-bound travelers to present the negative result of a COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of their scheduled departure to fly back to the US.
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Hawaii is no longer requiring masks outdoors
As more Americans are getting vaccinated, and COVID-19 cases are dropping across the US, where and when face masks are mandated is changing. Despite the announcement earlier this month by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), vaccinated people no longer need to wear masks outdoors. In many cases indoors, state and local governments have jurisdiction, and orders vary across the country.
In the latest news, Hawaii has updated its mask mandate, allowing people to go mask-less outdoors regardless of their vaccination status. The updated order comes in light of the fact that more than half of the Hawaiian population has received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. A little less than half of Hawaiians are fully vaccinated.
Though masks are no longer required outdoors, they are still required indoors for everyone, vaccinated or otherwise, Governor David Ige announced this week, continuing to encourage mask-wearing among large groups. “The virus is still circulating in our community and unvaccinated people are particularly at risk,” he said at a news conference. “And until more people are vaccinated, we must continue to take precautions indoors and in large because those actions are important to slow the spread of COVID-19.”
Governor Ige also announced that surf contests and other water sports competitions will resume as of June 1, 2021. Though the pandemic is still far from over, every bit of promising news is a welcome reminder that life in the US is slowly getting back to normal, even if it is a new normal.
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Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks break visitor records in April
In April 2021, Yellowstone and Grand Teton experienced a record number of visitors. This didn’t surprise the park’s superintendent Cam Sholly as he had made that prediction back in March.
“I predicted a record season, and I think we’re on track for that,” Sholly told the Billings Gazette.
Yellowstone National Park saw 67,000 recreational visitors passing through the entrance. That number is 40 percent more than April 2019, surpassing the number by 19,000 visitors. The previous record was 59,000 people in 2016.
Grand Teton National Park saw a 48 percent increase from April 2019, welcoming a record-breaking 87,700 visitors.
Montana’s Glacier National Park had reached almost 50 percent more visitors than in 2019 at 53,000 people. However, it didn’t surpass the record of 55,000 people in April 2016.
Almost 40 percent of Americans are fully vaccinated as of May 2021; however, international travel is still not fully back, and domestic summer trips are much easier to plan. As demand rises, Sholly said the park has prepared by hiring more seasonal employees for this busy season and getting them vaccinated. The park has stocked up on COVID-19 tests, personal protective gear, and cleaning supplies. All three of the park’s medical clinics are open, and a mask mandate remains in place, according to Billings Gazette.
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10 of the most scenic, luxurious, and activities-packed resorts in Maldives
When it comes to vacationing in paradise, destinations don’t get more idyllic than Maldives. The nation’s sugar-sand beaches and impossibly turquoise seas are like a postcard come to life, only prettier. The apparent remoteness of the islands adds to the allure and makes this Indian Ocean archipelago a special place to visit, and the now-iconic overwater villas are pretty cool, too.
One of the first countries to open its borders to travelers during the pandemic, the island nation became the biggest international tourism success story of 2020. Maldives was declared a Safe Destination by the World Travel & Tourism Council in September, later receiving a World Travel Award for World’s Leading Destination.
COVID-19 information for travelers to MaldivesAll arrivals, including fully vaccinated travelers, must have a negative COVID-19 test taken within 96 hours of departure. Attach results to the Traveler Health Declaration form, which should be submitted 24 hours before arrival. When it’s time to fly home, in-resort PCR testing is prevalent, but the CDC also just announced that air passengers traveling to the United States can now use approved COVID-19 self-test kits. And, for anyone looking to get vaccinated on vacation, it’s hoped the Maldivian tourism initiative “3V” (Visit, Vaccinate, Vacation) will roll out later this year once the resident population has the chance to become fully vaccinated first.
A destination worth the travel timeGetting there from the United States takes time. At a minimum, expect upwards of 19 hours and at least two flights depending on layovers via cities such as Istanbul or Dubai.
Resort staff will be on hand to greet you upon landing at Velana International Airport and assist with onward connections. Some guesthouses on local islands can be reached by public ferry, but it’s essential to book ahead for private resort transfers. A seaplane ride (20 to 60 minutes) with Trans Maldivian Airways adds a touch of wow to any arrival experience; however, many resorts can also arrange speedboat transfers (15 minutes to two hours) and domestic flights or a combination of the two.
With 1,192 coral islands and more than 150 eye-catching private island resorts spread out across North and South Malé Atolls, transfer times, activities, and budgets all play a part in deciding where to stay. South Malé Atoll comprises 30 islands and is considered one of the best places to snorkel with whale sharks year-round. You’ll find a higher concentration of resorts in North Malé Atoll, home to UNESCO biosphere reserve, Baa Atoll, the world’s largest manta ray feeding station. Waves in the North and Central Atolls draw surfers when swells pick up from April through October.
Whether coming to scuba dive, bliss out on a spa getaway, or take the honeymoon of a lifetime, here are the 10 of the most scenic and peaceful resorts in the Maldives.
1. Sail into the sunset: Baros Maldives
Photo: Baros Maldives/Facebook
Pristine white-sand beaches, a canopy of lush palms, and traditional thatched roof villas await at castaway island escape Baros Maldives, which has welcomed visitors since 1973 and won The World Travel Awards’ Most Romantic Resort in the World an impressive seven times. A slew of dining experiences caters to the culinary crowd, including a sunset dinner cruise for two aboard a “nooma” traditional wooden Maldivian sailing vessel. Back at the resort, paddleboard across the lagoon, snorkel with Hawksbill turtles on the house reef, or sit in on one of the marine biology program presentations at the Marine Center. Depending on the season, nightly rates for seven different accommodation categories (pick from sunrise or sunset, beach or ocean views) range from $463 for a deluxe villa near the beach to $1,200 for a water villa with a private pool.
Getting there: 25-minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport.
2. Surf an eternal Wave: Cheval Blanc Randheli
Photo: Cheval Blanc
With its combination of lush garden jungle and turquoise waters, Cheval Blanc Randheli is an island paradise perfected. Located north of Malé in the Noonu Atoll, this second hotel venture from Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy has opulent villas and a spa set on its own island offering dedicated Guerlain treatments. The resort even has a signature fragrance created by the head perfumer at Dior. From culinary classes and full moon yoga to the brand new surf simulator, guest experiences here are endless. Nightly rates fall across nine levels according to the time of the year and span from $2,200 (May through September) to $5,800 for a one-bedroom water villa (December through January).
Getting there: The seaplane transfer from Malé takes about 40 minutes followed by a dhoni ride.
3. Swim with manta rays: Furaveri Maldives
Photo: Furaveri Maldives/Facebook
Set on a natural island in the northwestern Raa Atoll, scuba diving and swimming with manta rays are the highlights at Furaveri Maldives. Its 107 villas and overwater bungalows are dreamy: Imagine slipping off your private deck to snorkel over the coral reef or walking a few steps to Amigos at Furumathi for a sundowner cocktail. While an Ayurvedic treatment from the spa inside its dedicated Wellness Village will leave you relaxed for days, Insta-gold photo ops await, too. Don’t miss the sea swing or schools of baby blacktip reef sharks that can often be seen swimming in the shallows. With nightly rates ranging from $259 for a Garden Villa to $649 for a Sunset Ocean Pool Villa during their low season, Furaveri is a five-star luxury at an accessible price point.
Getting there: Just a 45 minute seaplane ride from Malé with Trans Maldivian Airways. Domestic flights with Villa Air or Island Aviation. Speedboat transfers can also be arranged.
4. A favorite among surfers: Anantara Dhigu
Photo: Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort
Thanks to a range of surf breaks on the island and nearby, Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort is a favorite among the international surfer crowds. Watch expert-level riders as they charge house reef wave ‘Veli Left’ over a beer from Dhoni bar or sign up for a beginner lesson with Tropicsurf coaches François and Coline, who also run guided trips to outer reef breaks and farther afield to North Malé Atoll. With its pure white sands, crystal-clear blue waters and stunning views (especially from the infinity pool), nightly rates at Anantara Dhigu during low season range from $594 for a beachfront sunrise villa to $1,197 for an overwater pool suite, including breakfast and dinner.
Getting there: 30 minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport.
5. A solar-powered heaven: Kudadoo Maldives Private Island
Photo: Kudadoo Maldives Private Island Resort
Encircled by a private beach and clear waters as far as the eye can see, the views are as stunning as you would expect them to be from this Robinson Crusoe style eco-paradise. With just 15 villa residences, the entirely solar-powered Kudadoo Maldives Private Island makes for an uber-exclusive intimate getaway with prices to match. Nightly rates start at $3,800, although Beach Pool Villas at sister property Hurawalhi Island Resort (home to the impressive 5.8 Undersea restaurant) begin at $750. You can walk the circumference of Kudadoo in 10 minutes, but it’s the underwater coral reef, home to Maldives’ largest population of turtles and mantas, that will keep you captivated. Being adults-only, it’s also a favorite among honeymooners and wedding parties.
Getting there: Private transfer to the seaplane terminal in Malé followed by a 40-minute flight.
6. Glamp under the stars: AmillaPhoto: Amilla Beach Villa Residences
The chic overwater villas at Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences are dreamy, but guests are also going crazy for a new glamping experience at this ultra-luxe hotel in Baa Atoll. With a nightly rate starting at $750, three curated bubble tent packages are currently offered, including “Bubbles and Stars,” which comes with Champagne and a private chef dinner. For additional luxury amenities at Amilla, there are personalized Rolls Royce beach buggies, an overwater yoga pavilion, and a spa set among 400-year-old banyan trees.
Getting there: Half an hour from Malé by seaplane, or a 10 minute speedboat ride from Dharavandhoo Airport.
7. Swim with whale sharks: COMO Maalifushi
Photo: COMO Hotels
Located in Maldives’ southern reaches, COMO Maalifushi is the first and only resort to open in Thaa Atoll. The atoll is home to a gorgeous stretch of beach and house reef teeming with colorful fish and corals. While Thaa Atoll is well known for its diving spots, it’s also a great place to see whale sharks, and during November and April, guests can take part in a guided night snorkel with these gentle giants. Sophisticated and beautifully styled, 65 villas, including beachfront suites and a two-story residence, are positioned around the island and cost upwards of $1,1000 a night. However, anyone interested in WFM (Working From Maldives) might like to jump on the new month-long package, which starts at $16,000.
Getting there: It’s a 60-minute seaplane transfer from Malé airport.
8. Taste world-class wines: Raffles Maldives Meradhoo
Photo: Raffles Maldives Meradhoo
At Raffles Maldives Meradhoo, the experiences are spectacularly five-star, and the luxury is unparalleled. Set on far-flung Gaafu Alifu Atoll, the palm tree-lined private island is home to some of the largest overwater villas and residences in Maldives, with nightly rates starting at $1,750. Take a guided snorkeling tour of the house reef with your dedicated marine butler or enjoy a whale shark encounter with marine biologist Giulia Pellizzato. The newest addition to Raffles Maldives’ guest offerings, though, is back on dry land. Recently opened, The Wine House features over 400 labels and tasting experiences, ranging from a chocolate and wine pairing to a Champagne flight.
Getting there: A 55-minute domestic flight to Kaadedhdhoo airport where guests are met by their butler and whisked to the resort in 10-minutes by speedboat.
9. Adrenaline-fueled adventures: The Nautilus Maldives
Photo: The Nautilus Maldives
With its swaying palms and thatched pavilions, The Nautilus Maldives in Baa Atoll is comprised of 26 houses across the island, each with a private pool, direct reef access, and postcard-perfect views. Wellness is a top priority with July 2021 being dedicated as the resort’s first Holistic Spa Month to coincide with the launch of experiential journeys inspired by Taoist practices and Tibetan philosophies. Travelers looking for thrills will love the 12,000-foot solo or tandem skydiving experience. Despite the nightly rates also being sky-high (they start at $3,800) Nautilus really is the resort that bucket-list dreams are made of.
Getting there: A limousine transfer to the private VIP airport lounge for fast-track immigration followed by a seaplane ride to Baa Atoll takes 30 minutes.
10. Affordable luxury awaits: Meeru Island Resort & Spa
Photo: Meeru Island Resort & Spa/Facebook
Despite being the third largest resort in Maldives, Meeru Island retains a relaxed atmosphere and some of the most approachable pricing with nightly specials from $518 in low season and $716 at peak times. From the freshwater swimming pools and nine-hole golf course, diving, and water sports centers to the spa (of which there are two) plus a long list of excursions, you will be hard-pressed to run out of things to do here. Located at the water’s edge and a popular meet-up spot, head to Dhoni Bar for drinks and the best sunset views on the island.
Getting there: 55 minutes by speedboat from Malé.
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