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Salisbury Cathedral Sarum Lights

A stately, historic cathedral might not sound like a likely candidate to host an epic light show, but the Salisbury Cathedral in England is not afraid to celebrate in style. In honor of its 800th anniversary, Salisbury Cathedral is putting on a display of light and sound, called Sarum Lights.

Photo: Salisbury Cathedral/Facebook

According to the website, Sarum Lights “explores the rich history of Salisbury Cathedral and the people who have cared for it for over the past 800 years. This awe-inspiring show combines soundscapes and stunning light projections themed around different aspects of the Cathedral’s story located in different zones, starting at the West Front and continuing throughout the inside of the Cathedral.”

Photo: Visit Salisbury/Facebook

To reduce wait times and allow the smoothest viewing experience for visitors, 15-minute time slots have been designated for a limited number of people to access the cathedral. Various parts of the building will be illuminated with different projections, which run on a loop, and to view the whole show should take around an hour.

Photo: Salisbury Cathedral/Facebook

Refreshments are available in the Refectory Restaurant until 9:00 PM, and there will also be food trucks nearby. Sarum Lights began on Tuesday, February 18, and will run through the 22nd, each night from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased in advance online for $6.50, or at the door for $10.


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The post The Salisbury Cathedral is celebrating its 800th anniversary with a spectacular light show appeared first on Matador Network.

Sea to Sky Highway highlights in BC

You may have seen the sights in Vancouver and skied in Whistler traveling the photogenic Sea to Sky Highway — but, if you’re like too many travelers, you may have never stopped to take in the sights along the way. Or you haven’t made it past Whistler to experience the wilderness due north.

British Columbia’s Coast Mountains are a beautiful region to explore and are quite accessible from the Sea to Sky Highway that runs from Horseshoe Bay through Squamish to the charming town of Pemberton — traversing some of the most stunning terrain in Canada. Here are some of the best-kept, and not-so-well-kept, secrets along the Sea to Sky, including rustic hot springs, hiking trails leading to pristine lakes and mountain huts, and waterfalls that take your breath away.

1. Shannon Falls

Photo: Ravi Natarajan/Shutterstock

If you’re a frequent visitor to Squamish or Whistler, you’ve driven past Shannon Falls Provincial Park numerous times. The park is just over a mile outside of Squamish and is home to the third-highest waterfall in the province, which cascades down nearly 1,100 feet. The falls are reachable from the main parking area, the Sea to Sky Gondola lot, and the Stawamus Chief lot. After a short half-mile hike in you’re at the falls. Take some time to scramble about in the boulders near the base, where you can witness the thundering falls in all of their glory. Accessible at pretty much every point during the year, Shannon Falls is an excellent detour while on your way through Squamish.

2. Stawamus Chief

Photo: Rowan Sims Photography/Shutterstock

Some gritty folks might enjoy a trip up to Stawamus Chief for the sheer challenge of it. For the rest of us, the grind is fortunately rewarded with sweeping views of Squamish, the waters of Howe Sound, and the stunning peaks of the Coast Mountains. Standing at the summit of The Chief gives a great sense as to why the Sea to Sky Highway is named as such.

The hike to the first peak takes about 90 minutes and is largely on wooden stairs. On the way up, take note of the brightly streaked orange and red rock to your left, with moss crawling in the crevices and water dripping from the forest above. Once you’ve cleared the stairs, you will find the forest opening up to reveal the solid granite beneath your feet. This granite monolith is one of the largest in the world, attracting rock climbers from across North America.

The overall elevation gain is about 1,600 feet to the first peak, which is where the majority of people turn back. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can choose to summit the second and third peaks, which top out at 1,940 feet and 2,070 feet, respectively.

The Stawamus Chief parking is just a mile and a half from the Squamish historic center. Afterward, you can reward your hard work with a stop at Sunny Chibas in Squamish. Formerly known as Mag’s 99, Sunny Chibas is sure to satisfy by carrying on the Mag’s 99 legacy of fried chicken and Mexican food. The brightly painted eatery is easy to spot from the highway and never fails to disappoint. Our recommended order is a two-piece Chiba pack and the crispy corn fish tacos. You’d be surprised how well the two pair together. While the lines can be long, the wait is worth it.

3. Elfin Lakes

Photo: Dan Breckwoldt/Shutterstock

This hike to Elfin Lakes is not one of the better secrets of the region, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not worth a visit. The six-mile trail starts at the end of the Diamond Head parking lot, which is a one hour and 30-minute drive north from Vancouver (or about an hour south of Whistler). Without stopping, you could get to the lake and back in about five hours — but you’ll want to stop and picnic by the lakes.

The trail is moderate and is suitable for families willing to take on the challenge. The first part of it winds along an old road through the forest, which eventually rises to the Red Heather Meadows shelter. Continuing on from there, the forest gives way to vibrant subalpine meadows beneath the imposing figures of the surrounding mountains. After continuing along the ridge for a while, the trail dips back down to end at Elfin Lakes.

There is a shelter nestled in between a few trees between the two lakes, and tent pads are available for those looking to make the trip an overnight endeavor. The views from the lakes are absolutely stunning, showing off the striking character of the Coast Mountains. If you complete the hike in September or October, the crisp bite of fall will be in the air, and snow will have dusted the surrounding peaks. Even if you don’t picnic, at least bring a thermos of hot chocolate to sip next to the lakes and take a moment to wonder how you got so lucky.

4. T’sek Hot Springs

Photo: Tatjana Stone

Previously known as the Skookumchuk hot springs, the T’sek Hot Springs is an easy day trip from Whistler (one hour and 45 minutes) and a slightly longer one from Vancouver (three and hours 15 minutes). The hot springs are accessible via In-SHUCK-ch Forest Service Road (FSR), which ties into the Sea to Sky about 11 miles outside of Pemberton. Taking the FSR for 30 miles will bring you to the T’sek campground and springs. The road is usually in pretty good shape and is driveable in all seasons, but caution should be used following heavy snowfall in the area.

Along the way, there are several notable sights. At the southern end of Lillooet Lake, the formidable mountain In-SHUCK-Ch — also known as Gunsight Peak for the distinctive notch at its summit — dominates the skyline and inspires a sense of awe. Later along the road, to your right as you’re headed to the springs, is a rather curious cemetery. Aptly titled “Graveyard” on the arch over the entrance, it is where several generations of families who settled in the area have been laid to rest.

Once you arrive at the T’sek springs themselves, you will find sites available for camping as well as a day-use parking area. The hot springs are sacred to the In-SHUCK-ch and St’át’imc people, and as such, proper respect should be afforded when visiting them. Alcohol and glass are strictly prohibited while using the springs. There are fees associated for both day and overnight use, but they are very reasonable at $5.70 per adult for the day or $7.50 per vehicle per night. There are 12 tubs available in total, many of which allow for temperature control. The overall ambience of the hot springs is one of peace and serenity. A strong sense of connection with nature and the land is found by those who are willing to seek it during their visit.

5. Mount Brew hike (or ski tour)

Photo: Tatjana Stone

Mount Brew is located about 11 miles southwest of Whistler. Leaving from downtown Vancouver, take Highway 99 North for about one hour and 15 minutes to Chance Creek Forest Service Road. Take a left here and follow the road for one mile until you reach a large switchback heading up to the left. There are some facilities at this point that are used by a local cat skiing company in the winter. If you’re hiking in the summer, you’re good to drive on another 0.9 miles, taking a right at the fork. In the winter, you will likely have to park at the bottom of the switchback and gear up. The trail starts off the R200 Branch of the Roe Creek Road in the middle of a cut-block.

The trail meanders around the ridge along a bench, dipping in and out of the forest. Eventually, the trail opens up into meadows just south of Brew Lake. From the meadows, the trail heads up into the alpine and winds through the boulder fields. Continuing past Upper Brew Lake, the trail heads towards the saddle of the bowl. At this point, Brew Hut is only a few hundred feet more up the ridge.

If you’d like to stay the night, the UBC Varsity Outdoor Club (VOC) maintains a hut that is available to the public just south of Mount Brew. You can stay in the hut for a fee of $7.60 per night, which can be paid in the box inside of the hut. The money that is collected is used by the VOC for hut maintenance.

If you’re just up for a quick single-day jaunt, then continue up the ridge toward the summit of Mount Brew. There is no marked trail here, but in conditions with good visibility, the route is easy to navigate. On your way back down, consider taking a dip in Brew Lake. Though a bit shallow and muddy along the shore, it’s good for swimming in the summer. The best spot to hop in is right near the outlet of the lake where it pours into Brandywine Falls.


More like this: Best hikes around Vancouver and Vancouver Island

The post Stunning stops along the Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler appeared first on Matador Network.

Asheville, NC, for LGBTQ travelers

Though the southeast, in general, has never been among the most gay-friendly regions in the United States, there are some pockets, namely urban areas, where the LGBTQ community is not only welcomed but also embraced. One such place is Asheville, North Carolina.

The southern charm in Asheville is warm and sincere. Being downtown and among the lively crowd of both tourists and locals, you’d be forgiven for forgetting, if even for a moment, that North Carolina was at the epicenter of the “bathroom bill” battle. Thankfully, a settlement was reached in late July 2019 so that transgender people can now use whichever bathroom they choose in state-run buildings. Regardless, anyone who may feel uncomfortable visiting North Carolina can rest assured that they will be welcomed with open arms in Asheville.

Asheville has long been a destination for artists and musicians. Several venues bring some of the biggest names in music and entertainment to town. Both the Indigo Girls and Brandi Carlile have pulled a tour bus into town. It’s also a draw for many other smaller acts; it’s not uncommon to see buskers on each corner of downtown putting on a show and drawing a crowd. In addition to Asheville’s thriving music scene, its proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains has always been an attraction for outdoor adventurers. There are numerous options for cycling, hiking, kayaking, and even stand-up paddleboarding. The city has also not-so-quietly been making a name for itself in the food and drink scene. It’s got a handful of James Beard nominees who call the place home, and there are currently 50 breweries in the area with more on the way. Locals aren’t bragging when they say the town has pretty much everything a person could want, and that includes numerous safe spaces for the LGBTQ traveler.

While you can go pretty much anywhere in Asheville and be accepted, this guide highlights places that are specifically queer-friendly, from LGBTQ-owned businesses to venues that host events catered to the community.

Neighborhoods

West Asheville

Photo: Nolichuckyjake/Shutterstock

This neighborhood is, as its name suggests, just west of downtown. Ditch your car or hop in an Uber as parking can be hard to come by, and get around like a local on foot or bike. There’s a lot of cool murals in West Asheville, and there are several great queer-friendly coffee shops and places to get a bite or a beer along Haywood Road. Odd’s Cafe is a must if you’re craving a little caffeine.

Downtown

Asheville’s downtown is super walkable. There are plenty of bar-hopping options that serve brews and cocktails made with local ingredients and just as many restaurants to choose from. As if the food and drink scene wasn’t enough, there are also plenty of places to pick up a local-to-Asheville souvenir. We recommend stopping at the L.O.F.T for funny postcards, Malaprops for books by local authors, and Diamond Brand for some outdoor gear.

River Arts District

The River Arts District (RAD) is a collection of art galleries and studios. You’ll find everything from potters to painters to sculptors and even a glass blowing space. There are also several places in the RAD to get a very good meal or a drink. While you’re there, be sure to check out the Foundation. The old warehouse-style buildings there are covered in ever-changing street art, and it makes a great spot for an Instagram photo or two. It’s also home to several queer-friendly businesses.

Shops

Malaprops

Photo: Malaprop’s Bookstore/Cafe/Facebook

Conveniently located in the heart of downtown is one of the most beloved bookshops in Asheville: Malaprops. It has tons of titles in-store with an especially large selection of books from western North Carolina authors. It also hosts an LGBTQ book club that meets on the first Monday of every month. Check out the website to see what the club is currently reading.

Where: 55 Haywood Street

Horse and Hero

The art scene in Asheville is one of the main attractions for both locals and tourists. There are several galleries and shops in Asheville that sell products made by local artists, and Horse and Hero is one of the coolest. It’s located downtown and has a great selection of prints, cards, stickers, and more. In addition to being a great spot for finding a one-of-a-kind gift, Horse and Hero are also supporters of the #shopforequality day that supports LGBTQ rights.

Where: 14 Patton Avenue

Flora

Photo: Flora Asheville/Facebook

Visiting Flora is like stepping into an oasis of calm. The shop is lovingly filled with uniquely arranged potted plants and terrariums. You can feel good about purchasing a souvenir or gift as this business is one of several in Asheville that supports the Campaign for Southern Equality by donating some of its proceeds during the winter holidays. It also frequently posts on social media photos of local LGBTQ weddings for which they provided the floral arrangements.

Where: 428 B Haywood Road

Harvest Records

This is a queer-friendly space with all kinds of records, CDs, cassettes and even books that celebrate all kinds of artists. The staff is super knowledgeable and quick to answer questions about that hard-to-find LP you’ve been looking for. The shop sells tickets to shows at the most popular music venues in town, and it’s also a supporter of the Campaign for Southern Equality, donating a portion of its proceeds like Flora above.

Where: 415 Haywood Road

Restaurants and cafes

Baked Pie Company

Photo: Baked Pie Company/Facebook

Every second Tuesday of the month is Queer Pie Night. Join the Asheville queer community for a slice of pie, salad, or quiche. If you can’t decide on what to order we recommend a pie flight. Similar in concept to the beer flight, at the Baked Pie Company you can get a sampling of three of freshly baked options and a scoop of ice cream. Bonus: They often have vegan, gluten-free, and sugar-free options.

Where: 50 North Merrimon Avenue

Odd’s Cafe

If you’re in need of some caffeine or a late-afternoon snack, Odd’s is the cafe to visit. It’s got all kinds of delicious and creative coffee drinks, teas, baked goods, and snacks. Plus, the space is welcoming to all. The motto kind of says it all: “We’re all a little different, just like you.” The bathrooms at Odd’s are unisex with signs stating that everyone is welcome. Odd’s also welcomes artists from the Asheville area to hang and sell their art on the wall, many of whom are part of the LGBTQ community. There is a new show on the walls each month.

Where: 800 Haywood Road, Suite A

12 Bones Smokehouse

Photo: 12 Bones River/Facebook

The pulled pork BBQ sandwich is a hot-and-tender, juicy heaping pile of meat bookended with a fresh, soft, slightly sweet roll. Try to resist shoving the entire thing in your mouth and take a few extra seconds to dunk it in some of their tomato “Q” sauce. A word to the wise: You’ll be sorry if you left without tasting all of the homemade sauces and getting a side of the garlicky, buttery green beans. On top of all that, 12 Bones is gay-friendly. The owners, Angela and Bryan are super welcoming to all and have created a space where you can truly come as you are.

Where: 5 Foundy Street, Suite 10

Cúrate

Both locals and tourists love chef Katie Button’s Cúrate. She has been nominated for several James Beard awards, and as you might expect, the food there is phenomenal. The wine list at Curate is extensive, and the menu changes seasonally. It’s a fun place to share some small plates with friends and family. The LGBTQ community will find this to be a safe space as Button and company are supporters of LGBTQ rights that have partnered up with the Campaign for Southern Equality.

Where: 13 Biltmore Avenue

Sovereign Remedies

Photo: Sovereign Remedies/Facebook

This downtown restaurant in Asheville is gay-owned and one of the best places to get a hand-crafted cocktail or meal. It also does an amazing brunch and has both a full dinner menu and a late-night menu. Many of the ingredients are from local farmers and foragers, which make for an exceptionally delicious and unique experience. It’s a wonderful place to go on a date as the space is beautiful and the food and drinks are top-notch.

Where: 29 North Market Street

Bars and nightlife

Banks Ave

Banks Ave is located in the hip South Slope neighborhood and is a great spot for drag shows, dancing, and karaoke. It hosts the Stonewall Sports League kickoff party and has a bunch of pool tables and corn-hole boards, as well as an outdoor patio which makes for a laid-back vibe and fun place to meet locals.

Where: 32 Banks Avenue

Grey Eagle

Photo: The Grey Eagle/Facebook

Small-ish bands and artists frequent the Grey Eagle. It’s the kind of place where you can see someone whose star is on the rise, and then in five or six years say, “I saw them play in Asheville.” The Avett Brothers and Sharon Jones both belted out sets here. The rainbow sticker on the door is more than just lip service as the staff and space inside both talk the talk and walk the walk. Be on the lookout for the Drag Brunch events as tickets go quickly and proceeds benefit local LGBTQ youth groups.

Where: 185 Clingman Avenue

O.Henry’s

O.Henry’s is the oldest gay bar in North Carolina. It’s located downtown and is close enough to a few hotels that you can easily walk to and from it without having to get in the car. It has a couple of pool tables and often has drag shows and other live entertainment. There aren’t many places that specifically carve out space for the LGBTQ community in Asheville, but this is one of them. Be ready to buck up $7 as O.Henry’s is a private club, but once you’ve paid, your membership is good for the entire year.

Where: 237 Haywood Road

The Odditorium

The Odditorium is located in West Asheville and is a one-of-a-kind LGBTQ spot in Asheville. It’s known for its events, which include everything from drag shows to burlesque shows to open mic comedy and live sets from local bands. Stop by on a Sunday afternoon to order the Bloody Mary, which is both a meal and a drink.

Where: 1045 Haywood Road

New Belgium Brewing

Photo: New Belgium Brewing/Facebook

New Belgium sits in between West Asheville and downtown and is a great spot for anyone in the LGBTQ community that wants to grab a beer and hang out without having to worry about whether or not they’ll be safe or welcome. You’ll be both at New Belgium. It’s been offering same-sex benefits since it started its health coverage plan in the early 1990s and recently hired a Diversity and Inclusion Specialist, as well as doing multiple collaboration beers where profits have been donated to LGBTQ organizations.

Where: 21 Craven Street

The Mothlight

The Mothlight sits on the west side of town and is one of those places you might walk by if you weren’t looking for it. If you’re visiting Asheville, be sure to check out the event calendar because they have all kinds of fun, inclusive shows. They host everyone from local DJ Marley Carroll to spoken word acts to intimate evenings of storytelling and sharing. They also team up with local radio station 103.3 AshevilleFM to host the Pansy Fest Local Queer Benefit Show.

Where: 701 Haywood Road

The Whale

Craft beers, some of which are rare and hard-to-find, are the name of the game at the Whale, one of the coolest places to grab a beer in West Asheville. There’s a chill outdoor patio as well as a fun indoor space and tons of beers to try, all of which are served up by an easygoing, knowledgeable, and unpretentious staff. The best part is that you can drink with an easy conscience knowing that the Whale not only supports the queer community but also donates some of its money each year to the LGBTQ community via The Campaign for Southern Equality.

Where: 507 Haywood Road

Where to stay

Photo: ZakZeinert/Shutterstock

There are a ton of lodging options in Asheville, everything from your typical chains to hostels to the largest home in the US, the Biltmore Estate. As they say in Asheville, “y’all means all,” and in this case, it pertains to lodging as well. Your best bet when looking for accommodation is to decide what neighborhood you want to use as a home base and then Uber or walk everywhere.

Biltmore Estate

You can do more than just rest your head at the Biltmore Estate. In addition to various lodging options, there are trails and gardens to explore, shopping, wine tasting, and, of course, tours of the grounds to partake in. Not only that but you can also have your very own gay wedding at the Biltmore Estate. A spokesperson for the Biltmore says, “These weddings are not only welcomed but encouraged.” There are tons of great places for photo ops on the Biltmore Estate, as well as plenty of accommodations to host your friends and family on your special day.

Where: 1 Lodge Street

A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast

Tucked in a quiet part of the Montford neighborhood you’ll find a bed and breakfast that is not only historic but also gay-friendly. The owners and hosts, Bill and Emily, welcome people from all walks of life regardless of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Plus, you can treat yourself to the finer things in life with plush bathrobes, Jacuzzi-style tubs and a two-course breakfast in the morning.

Where: 135 Cumberland Avenue


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The post The ultimate LGBTQ guide to Asheville appeared first on Matador Network.

Best US music festivals spring 2020

Hopefully, you’re not yet at the point where you’re going all Portlandia and attending festivals via drone. Because though the heat, crowds, and cost of a major music festival can be a little aggravating, it’s still the only chance to see your entire playlist live in one place, combining it with an epic vacation to a new city or a beachfront paradise.

Spring might be even better than summer when it comes to US music festivals, offering cooler weather and bills with a little more variety. Read on for the best music fests to hit between March and May, and some of the best acts to see when you get there.

1. Okeechobee Music Festival, Okeechobee, Florida — March 4-8

Photo: Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival

Spring break in Florida typically conjures up images of sun-soaked beaches and regrettable ice luges, but that’s not the case if you head to this festival deep in the swamps north of Lake Okeechobee. The camping festival is a world away from beachy Florida, with giant art installations, a vaudeville/stand-up comedy theater, and a roving group of performers keeping you entertained when you’re not listening to music. But if you’re hellbent on a beach, Okeechobee’s got one of those too at Aquachobee — just make sure to look out for alligators first.

Notable acts: Rufus del sol, Vampire Weekend, Bassnectar, Mumford & Sons, Kaskade

2. SXSW Music Festival, Austin, Texas — March 16-22

Photo: GSPhotography/Shutterstock

Though there was a time when South By Southwest was just a little music festival for up-and-coming acts in Texas’s quirky capital, like the city it takes over the festival has grown exponentially. Now, it’s a tech conference, film festival, and worldwide networking event where you can still catch shows from great acts all around town. It’s not a festival in the sense of buying one ticket and seeing scores of big names but rather a chance to catch tons of live music in one of the best live music cities on the planet.

Notable acts: You’ll find literally 2,000 performers from over 60 countries at SXSW, but if you need a little direction, MICHELLE and Disq are both worth checking out.

3. Ultra Music Festival, Miami, Florida — March 20-22

Photo: Ultra Music Festival

The granddaddy of electronic music festivals returns to downtown Miami this year. It’s a chance to catch the biggest names in EDM and other modern genres under the glorious Florida sunshine in the shadow of the downtown skyline, with people from literally all over the world. Ultra’s also the culmination of Miami Music Week, where the same acts you see on the mainstage play small clubs and even some retail shops around town.

Notable acts: Sofi Tukker, Armin van Buuren, Above & Beyond, Kyg, Carl Cox

4. Treefort Music Festival, Boise, Idaho — March 25-29

Photo: Treefort Music Fest

Not to say the secret is out about Treefort, necessarily, but for music lovers who long for festivals “the way they used to be,” it’s already become a household name. The five-day fest takes over downtown Boise in a far-less-obtrusive way than SXSW, where every bar, restaurant, and event space around the area is filled with live music. You can also find temporary stages for headliners and daylong spring parties, plus satellite “forts” like flimfort, comedyfort, artfort, and foodfort to supplement your experience.

Notable acts: Calexico, GROUPLOVE, Omar Apollo, Japanese Breakfast, The Ophelias

5. Coachella, Indio, Californi — April 10-12, 17-19

Photo: Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival

The undisputed queen of spring music festivals has mastered the two-weekend format, offering lineups just different enough to keep you around and just similar enough you won’t beat yourself up for choosing one week to go. It’s also become the platform of choice for momentous occasions in popular music: Remember, this is the same festival where Tupac came back from the dead via hologram, Guns n’ Roses finally took the stage after decades apart, and Beyoncé redefined the headliner performance. Though Coachella may be the festival many point to as the icon of over-commercialization, it’s still a great time.

Notable acts: Rage Against the Machine, Travis Scott, Fatboy Slim, Lana del Rey, Bishop Briggs

6. New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, New Orleans, Louisiana — April 23-May 3

Photo: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

Having outgrown its old “New Orleans Jazz Fest” moniker, this two-week takeover of the Fair Grounds and Race Course now features a folklife village, a cultural pavilion, and an entire exhibit devoted to the native peoples of Louisiana. The festival delivers hundreds of acts over a dozen stages in genres including jazz, obviously, but also everything from rock to blues to hip-hop.

Notable acts: Lizzo, The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra: Kool & The Gang, The Who, The Black Crowes, Chick Correa, Big Freedia

7. Stagecoach, Indio, California — April 24-26

Photo: Stagecoach Festival

Indio may as well be the music capital of the world for the last month of spring. As this festival, originally conceived as a way to monetize the existing infrastructure from Coachella, has blossomed into one of the most popular country music festivals in the world. The crowds are not nearly as massive for the country acts that land near Palm Springs the last weekend of April. While it’s not exactly a hidden gem, it is a more tolerable alternative to the madness of the previous two weeks.

Notable acts: Carrie Underwood, Dan + Shay, Alan Jackson, Lil Nas X, ZZ Top, Eric Church

8. III Points Festival, Miami, Florida — May 1-2

Photo: III Points Music Festival

What began as a one-night festival of local bands in Miami’s Wynwood arts district has grown into what many music lovers consider the city’s best festival. It attracts a perfect balance of local and regional acts you’d never get to see elsewhere, with just enough big names to keep you staying out late. III Points is also housed in the massive Mana Wynwood venue, smack in the middle of one of the biggest concentrations of street art in the world.

Notable acts: Wu-Tang Clan, Robyn, The Strokes, Ghostflower

9. Beale Street Music Festival, Memphis, Tennessee — May 1-3

Photo: Beale Street Music Festival

Though for most of the year, Memphis is overshadowed in the music world by its sexy sister to the north in Nashville, for one glorious weekend in May it regains its position as the original Music City, USA. Memphis in May has become the city’s cornerstone event, and for its kickoff weekend, you’ll find the biggest names in entertainment playing Tom Lee Park on the banks of the Mississippi. Hang out in town another couple weeks and you’ll experience the other thing this city’s known best for when the World Championship Barbecue Contest continues the celebration.

Notable acts: Smashing Pumpkins; Weezer; Lil Wayne; The 1975; Portugal, The Man; Three 6 Mafia

10. Shaky Knees Music Festival, Atlanta, Georgia — May 1-3

Photo: Shaky Knees Music Festival

You like rock? Like, bands with four people playing actual instruments and singers who aren’t auto-tuned rock? Shaky Knees might be the only major music festival left for you, where top names in indie, alternative, hard, soft, and classic rock play Atlanta’s Central Park, reminding us that reports of rock and roll’s death have been greatly exaggerated. It’s also a city festival, which means those who like rock on stage — but not under their back when they’re trying to sleep — can post up in a nice, comfy hotel after the show.

Notable acts: The Smashing Pumpkins, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Liam Gallagher, Of Mice and Men, Murder by Death

11. Rolling Loud, Miami Gardens, Florida — May 8-10

Photo: http://www.rollingloud.com/

This year the Super Bowl of hip-hop music festivals will occupy the same space as the actual Super Bowl when it takes over Hard Rock Stadium between Miami and Ft. Lauderdale. Though it won’t be on the same field where the 49ers blew a 10-point lead in the fourth quarter, Rolling Loud will be spread across multiple stages in the Hard Rock parking lots, drawing music fans from all over the southeast. That same weekend, many of the headlining acts play small shows at clubs and bars around South Florida, so traveling here is a chance to see them in intimate spaces as well.

Notable acts: Post Malone, Rick Ross, Dababy, Travis Scott, City Girls, Big Sean

12. Hangout Music Festival, Gulf Shores, Alabama — May 14-17

Photo: Hangout Music Fest

Combining all the beachside recklessness of spring break with the uninhibited fun of a music festival, Hangout may be the best music festival vacation one can take. Rent out a condo overlooking the white sandy beaches of Gulf Shores, make new friends playing beer pong until lunchtime, then head over to the festival with them for the afternoon. It’s the only big fest held right on the water, and though you can’t really go swimming inside festival grounds, nobody’s stopping you from doing it outside.

Notable acts: Billie Eilish, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Marshmello, Post Malone

13. Electric Daisy Carnival Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada — May 15-17

Photo: EDC Las Vegas

While spending all day on an asphalt racetrack in late-spring in Las Vegas may not sound like everyone’s idea of a good time, for ravers, candy-flippers, and fans of electronic music it’s about the best place in the world. EDC Vegas is the odd festival that combines a camping experience — RVs and shiftpods are as ubiquitous in the parking lot as they are during NASCAR events — with an urban festival. And though you might be tempted to base from the comforting A/C of the Wynn or Circus Circus, long shuttle lines and rides home at the end of the night can be a nasty buzzkill.

Notable acts: Tiesto, Cosmic Gate, A$AP Rocky, Alesso, Above & Beyond, Opening ceremony with Bill Nye

14. Boston Calling, Boston, Massachusetts — May 22-24

Photo: Boston Calling Music Festival

Ahh Harvard. Alma mater of eight US Presidents. Birthplace of Facebook. And, for Memorial Day weekend anyway, the world epicenter of rock and roll. The Bean’s biggest music festival is also one of the best for music lovers, where beyond seeing a smattering of big-name headliners you can also spend a few days checking out talented acts you might otherwise not see. You can also try some of Boston’s best food and beer at the fest, a big draw for those who remember to eat at music festivals.

Notable acts Foo Fighters, Rage Against the Machine, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The 1975, Dinosaur, Jr.

15. BottleRock Napa Valley, Napa, California — May 22-24

Photo: BottleRock Napa

If you’re going to Napa, music festival or not, you’re gonna want wine and food too. And the folks behind BottleRock don’t make you choose, where in addition to a stellar lineup of multiple genres you’ll find ample wine tents and food trucks. The only tricky part about this fest is finding a place to stay, as even on weekdays in the winter Napa hotels can be bank-breaking. If you’re down to camp, your best bet is probably Camp Carneros at the Skyline Wilderness Park, only a couple of miles away.

Notable acts: Janelle Monae, Blondie, Dave Matthew Band, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Zedd, Eric B & Rakim


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Best shows to see in London in 2020

Putting on the world’s greatest shows since Shakespeare made his mark in the 1500s, London is right up there with Broadway as the most iconic place in the world to watch theater. If you’ve made your way through the long list of West End giants like The Lion King and Mamma Mia, don’t worry — you’re not done just yet.

From the dark, heart-wrenching melodrama to the all-singing, all-dancing musicals, here’s our pick of London’s hottest new shows for 2020.

1. Romeo & Juliet, Shakespeare’s Globe

Photo: Nick Brundle/Shutterstock

The opening of the Globe’s 2020 summer season (April-October) will see Shakespeare’s most famous tragic love story, Romeo and Juliet, return to London’s favorite open-air stage. With rising director Ola Ince making her Shakespeare debut and Harry Potter actor Alfred Enoch confirmed as Romeo, the play is expected to be a highlight of London’s outdoor theater season. The 700 standing “yard” seats, which sell for just 5 British pounds, have the best views of the stage, while seated gallery tickets offer the luxury of a cushioned seat and sweeping views of the Globe’s 17th-century inspired architecture.

Dates: From April 14 to July 12, 2020

Tickets: From £5 to £59, visit the show’s official website to book

2. 4000 Miles, Old Vic Theatre

Photo: Old Vic Theatre

Starring Call Me By Your Name star Timothée Chalamet and BAFTA-winning actress Dame Eileen Atkins, 4000 Miles has already got the best of the West End critics talking on social media. The Pulitzer Prize-nominated play, written by American playwright Amy Herzog in 2011, tells the story of a young adventurer visiting his estranged 91-year-old grandmother in her New York apartment, where he ends up staying a little longer than planned. Tickets, despite being released just recently by the Old Vic Theatre, are already selling out fast. In other words, you better be quick if you want to catch Chalamet making his much-anticipated West End debut.

Dates: From April 6 to May 23, 2020

Tickets: From £12 to £65, visit the Old Vic Theatre to book

3. Pretty Woman: The Musical, Piccadilly Theatre

Photo: Piccadilly Theatre/Facebook

It has been 30 years since we saw Julia Roberts and Richard Geare making Hollywood history with the hit rom-com, Pretty Woman. Following a successful year on Broadway, 2020 will mark the film’s West End debut with an all-singing, all-dancing production that will run for a scheduled 46 weeks. BBC’s hit drama Eastenders star Dannie Mac will play Edward Lewis, while Olivier-nominee and ex-Six lead Aimie Atkinson will take to the stage as Vivian Ward. With two-time Tony Award-winner Jerry Mitchell (Kinky Boots, Legally Blonde, and Hairspray) appointed as head of choreography and direction, Pretty Woman: The Musical is promising to be a great night out.

Dates: From February 15 to January 2, 2021

Tickets: From £15, visit the Piccadilly Theatre to book

4. The Doctor, Duke of York’s Theatre

Photo: Duke of York’s Theatre

After last year’s sellout run in the 325-seat Almeida Theatre, The Doctor — Robert Icke’s award-winning adaptation of the 1912 play by Austrian writer Arthur Schnitzler — has been selected for a West End transfer this April. Olivier Award-winner Juliet Stevenson is set to return for the lead role, a Jewish physician condemned by Vienese society after a Catholic patient dies in her care. Thanks to its collection of five-star reviews from the Financial Times, The Telegraph, and The Evening Standard, The Doctor is expected to sell out fast, so don’t delay in securing your tickets for this one.

Dates: From April 20 to July 18, 2020

Tickets: From £15, visit the Duke of York’s Theatre to book.

5. Sunday in the Park with George, Savoy Theatre

Photo: Savoy Theatre

After an 18-year West End hiatus, Hollywood megastar Jake Gyllenhaal returns to the London stage to repeat his lead role in Sunday in the Park with George, the hugely successful Broadway adaptation of Stephen Sondheim’s award-winning 1984 musical. The story follows the life of French impressionist Georges Seurat as he works on his most famous painting, “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte.” Consumed by his masterpiece, George becomes alienated from his lover, Dot (played by Tony Award-winner Annaleigh Ashford) and the world around him. Praised by critics in New York and with the fastest-selling Broadway records, Sunday in the Park with George is set to be one of 2020’s West End highlights.

Dates: From May 11 to September 5, 2020

Tickets: From £25, visit the Savoy Theatre to book

6. To Kill A Mockingbird, Gielgud Theatre

Photo: Delfont Mackintosh Theatres

After a good run on Broadway, Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation of literary masterpiece To Kill A Mockingbird is finally coming to London. The Pulitzer Prize-winning novel has been tweaked for the stage, with much of the action revolving around the trial and, perhaps most controversially, a slightly darker portrayal of Atticus Finch’s character (played by Welsh actor, Rhys Ifans); a creative decision that was heavily criticized by the Harper Lee estate. Despite the show’s initial legal battle to adapt the story, To Kill A Mockingbird went on to receive huge praise from the likes of The New York Times and Los Angeles Times, and is expected to cause similar waves in London this summer.

Dates: From May 21 to September 5, 2020

Tickets: From £40 to £152, visit Delfont Mackintosh Theatres to book

7. A Doll’s House, The Playhouse Theatre

Photo: Playhouse Theatre

Actress Jessica Chastain will be yet another Hollywood star to grace London’s West End this year. Chastain’s UK stage debut will see her playing the powerful female character of Nora, a mother and wife who is dissatisfied with the roles thrust upon her by society. In an attempt to make theater accessible to all, director Jamie Lloyd and his company (best known for critically acclaimed Betrayal and Cyrano de Bergerac) will be offering 15,000 free tickets for first-time theatergoers, with disadvantaged communities and secondary schools getting first priority. A second set of 15,000 tickets will be sold at £15 for those under 30 or receiving government benefits.

Dates: From June 10 to September 5, 2020

Tickets: From £15, visit the show’s official website to book

8. Life of Pi, Wyndham’s Theatre

Photo: Goodman Theatre/YouTube

When Lolita Chakrabarti first took on the challenge of adapting Yann Martel’s bestselling novel for the stage (it involves an Indian boy being stranded at sea with a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a giant Bengal tiger), everyone most likely thought she was mad. But, thanks to Finn Caldwell’s master puppetry and stellar performance by Hiran Abeysekera (Pi), the show was an immediate hit when it premiered in Sheffield in 2019. Fans of the Booker Prize-winning novel will be pleased to hear that Life of Pi will be transferred to the West End stage this summer with an even bigger production backed by legend theater producer, Max Webster.

Dates: From June 22 to October 4, 2020

Tickets: From £27.50 to £117, visit the Delfont Mackintosh Theatres to book

9. The Book of Dust: La Belle Sauvage, Bridge Theatre

Photo: Bridge Theatre/Facebook

After the BBC’s hit TV adaptation of Phillip Pullman’s His Dark Materials in 2019, it’s of little surprise to see the prequel (the first volume to the trilogy The Book of Dust: La Belle Sauvage, is set 12 years before His Dark Materials) on the stage this year. Fans can expect all the usual traits of Pullman’s fantasy world — talking animals, parallel worlds, and evil forces — as we travel back in time to a six-month-old Lyra Belacqua being kept safe by new characters, Malcolm and Alice. Nicholas Hytner — the man behind National Theatre’s run of His Dark Materials in 2003 — will direct the show, and has said that they plan to use puppets for the animal “daemons” as they did for His Dark Materials’ stage adaptation.

Dates: From July 11 to October 10, 2020

Tickets: From £15 to £75, visit the Bridge Theatre to book

10. Sister Act, Eventim Apollo

Photo: Eventim Apollo

If you’re a theater regular, you’ll know that Sister Act isn’t new to London this year; the hit 1992 movie first appeared on the West End stage back in 2012. But stay with us, because the newly-adapted Sister Act for 2020 has a big surprise in store: For a limited time only, Whoopi Goldberg will perform on stage as Deloris for the first time ever. Three-time BAFTA-winning actress Jennifer Saunders will join Goldberg on stage as Mother Superior, who does everything in her power to stop Deloris turning her convent into a disco. The only downside? A star-studded cast means a considerable hike in price, so get in early if you don’t want to part with 249 pounds for a ticket.

Dates: From July 29 to August 30, 2020

Tickets: £29.75 to £249.50, visit Eventim Apollo to book

11. Frozen, Theatre Royal Drury Lane

Photo: Frozen the Musical

After a year of renovations, Theatre Royal Drury Lane will finally reopen its doors this October. And what better way to show off its new multi-million interior than with Michael Grandage’s hit Broadway adaptation of Disney’s Frozen? Fans will be pleased to know that the songs, brought to life with lavish costumes and hand-painted sets, are scheduled to be the same as in the film, meaning “Let it Go” should make an appearance. West End and BBC actress Samantha Barks announced on Twitter that she will play Elsa, but all other casting has been kept under wraps, as has the official opening date.

Dates: From October

Tickets: TBC, visit Frozen the Musical for more information

A version of this article was previously published on March 29, 2019, and was updated on February 19, 2020, with more information.

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Misleading coronavirus map

As important as it is to stay informed during a global epidemic like the new coronavirus, it’s equally important to prevent the spread of misinformation, which can cause unnecessary panic. All it takes is the publication of one inaccurate statistic or map to drive people into a frenzy, which could end up exacerbating the problem instead of simply promoting caution. For example, one map depicting global air travel (unrelated to the coronavirus) was mistakenly shared as an illustration of the virus’ spread.

The BBC reported that in early February, the World Population Project at the University of Southampton published research that predicted where people from Wuhan had traveled in the weeks prior to the quarantine. Researchers tweeted out several messages and maps about their work, including one map that showed the entire network of global air travel, with red lines criss-crossing all around the world. The problem was, this map was not linked to the study in any way.

Photo: BBC

When asked, the team clarified that the map, covered in red lines, was not part of the study. It was merely shared with the intention of illustrating the vast extent of the global air network. However, the damage had already been done. The map was picked up by several Australian news outlets, used in TV discussion between pundits, and viewed several million times — all under the false assumption that it depicted the spread of the virus globally.

Despite the fact that the map is now known to be false, it remains in many news outlets’ coverage of the story. The incident highlights how important it is to not only seek information, but to make sure that information is accurate, comes from a reputable source, and is being analyzed in the appropriate context.

H/T: BBC

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737 Max debris in fuel tanks

Boeing just can’t seem to catch a break. The much-beleaguered Boeing 737 Max is the subject of new safety concerns, as debris has been found in the fuel tanks of several new planes in storage in Washington and Texas, waiting to be delivered to airlines.

A Boeing company spokesperson told the BBC, “While conducting maintenance we discovered Foreign Object Debris (FOD) in undelivered 737 Max airplanes currently in storage. That finding led to a robust internal investigation and immediate corrective actions in our production system.”

FOD is defined by the Federal Aviation Administration as “any object, live or not, located in an inappropriate location in the airport environment that has the capacity to injure airport or air carrier personnel and damage aircraft.”

The entire fleet of new but undelivered aircrafts, which amounts to 400 planes, is being inspected for FOD.

In a message to Boeing employees, Mark Jenks, vice president and general manager of the 737 program, said, “FOD is absolutely unacceptable. One escape is one too many.”

All 737 Max airplanes have been grounded by regulators since March 2019, after two deadly crashes believed to be linked to software malfunctions.

While a thorough investigation of the issue is underway, Boeing has insisted that it will not delay the 737 Max’s return to service. And indeed, the model is slated to be back in the skies by mid-2020.


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Why Cococo chef cooks Soviet cuisine

One of Russia’s most Instagrammed desserts may remind you of Nicolas Cage on the cover of Adaptation: a broken flower pot, clay splinters, strewn soil, and a crumpled blossom, all clumped together. It’s called “My mother’s favorite flower,” and is made with halva mousse and pepper ice-cream filling, chocolate-brownie earth, a bellflower, and a sprig of mint served atop a real piece of parquet floor.

“I remember sitting by the window on long winter evenings, gazing through the frost-patterned glass…and inside, there was the smell of wet earth from flower pots, carefully tended by my mother’s hands,” says its creator, Cococo chef Igor Grishechkin. “They were silent inhabitants of the room. Almost mystical and sacred.”

Grishechkin, 38, cooks to indulge his inner-child. At Cococo in St. Petersburg, Russia’s imperial capital, the chef’s dishes are as melodramatic as the grandiose museums, theaters, and Orthodox churches that the city is known for. He’s inspired by fairy tales and Russian history: amuse-bouche in Fabergé eggs, prima ballerina Anna Pavlova twirling on plates, and crème brûlée carved like antique brooches.

Photo: Cococo

But Grishechkin’s cooking is also controversial. It not only highlights the opulence of tsars and Catherine the Great, but also the Soviet era. White-fish doughnuts with remoulade emulate the fried doughnut-like pyshki of drab Leningrad cafes. “Cococorn” draws inspiration from Soviet-era movie theaters by serving sweet-corn ice cream frozen into popcorn shapes inside tubs reminiscent of those from the time of the Republic.

The approach is in stark contrast to the New Russian Cuisine movement led by the country’s most internationally known chef, Vladimir Mukhin.

“Russians suffered 75 years, two and a half generations of Soviet time, when people were fooled into eating gray urban grub,” Mukhin said in a Chef’s Table episode spotlighting him and his restaurant, White Rabbit, in Moscow. “I really hate that period because it destroyed all Russian cuisine. I will do whatever it takes to bring the genuine Russian taste back to the people.”

Cococo’s menu, from the meat jelly and mustard ice cream to the green buckwheat porridge, is in direct opposition. Grishechkin embraces all of Russia’s historic cuisine, including the dishes from the time period that Mukhin says “destroyed” the country’s “genuine Russian taste.”

“The Soviet past happened,” Grishechkin says. “You can’t just cross it out. Saying that it didn’t mean anything would be lying to ourselves. People growing up in the Soviet Union can’t say there was something disgusting about the food they had as children, because most of them, including me, have light, pleasant, warm memories about it.”

Photo: Cococo

Grishechkin grew up in the 1980s in Smolensk in western Russia, which is next to the Belarus border. The concepts for his cooking started in his mother’s garden. The flower pot dessert, ordered about 2,000 times a month at Cococo, is just one of many dishes that serve as an homage to the mama and babushka who raised him.

Chicken broth, served at the restaurant in an old-style Russian tea glass embossed in brass, is the ultimate hangover cure after a vodka-fueled evening in St. Petersburg. Growing up, it was a belly-warmer cooked over a wood-burning stove.

“Waking up in the morning, when it’s cold in the house, you fire up a little piece of wood and you feel the smell, warmth coming from it and you see the open, dancing flames and it’s an extraordinary feeling,” the chef recalls. “It’s a completely different thing when food is cooked on an open fire like this.”

Another dish, a free-range quail stuffed with baked potatoes and penny-bun mushrooms, is a visual ode to village slaughters. The quail sits pretty on a plate splattered with blood-red beetroot sauce.

“At the end of autumn, the men would butcher a pig, cut off the skin, slice it up, fry the blood, make sausages, salted things,” Grishechkin says. “Those memories are a feeling intact with nature and life and death. That’s what brings me to the food.”

Cococo works exclusively with seasonal ingredients sourced from farmers and producers in the surrounding northwestern Leningrad region. When entrepreneur Matilda Shnurova approached Grishechkin to realize her dream of a slow-food, local-produce restaurant, what’s now Cococo, it was a leap of faith. “Everyone (told me not to do a concept like this),” he says, laughing. “But negative responses are not a reason to stop believing in something.”

In 2014, when many Russian restaurants were forced to stop importing and start buying local due to sanctions, Cococo’s regional sustainable model had already been in place for two years.

“Restaurants are serving (Russian food) with avocado, ponzu, and yuzu sauce, and they think they’re doing something better, but they’re going in circles,” he says. “If you change the ingredients and the dish, it doesn’t mean you’re doing something authentic.”

Photo: Cococo

Cococo is now a destination restaurant in St. Petersburg for locals and visitors alike, serving affordable a la carte dishes for under $20 as well as an ambitious 11-course tasting menu ($66) where Grishechkin really shows off his skills.

And although there is debate about what concepts New Russian Cuisine should champion, chefs like Grishechkin and Mukhin are, in a sense, working together to bring back a culture of restaurants and eating out that undeniably disappeared during the Soviet era.

“I don’t think we need a manifesto like New Nordic cuisine, but there should be principles to uphold,” Grishechkin says. “Seasonal and local, an homage to tradition, and third is cultural inheritance. Remembering you’re Russian. Sometimes what’s important as a chef is not what you learned, but what you were born with.”


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2020 ideas for solo female travelers

No mere trend: Solo female travel is here to stay. Women around the world are getting out of their comfort zones to discover the challenges and rewards of planning and executing a trip all on their own. Solo travel encourages confidence, allows you the freedom to do exactly what you want on a trip without having to compromise, grants total immersion in a different environment and culture, and gives you the chance to connect with locals and other travelers.

Whether you’re looking to make new friends while on the road, spend all your time hiking through remote national parks, or eat your way through every restaurant and food stand in a new city, there are tons of options to choose from when it comes to selecting a solo travel destination that will fit your personality and trip goals. These offerings range from captivating landscapes to ancient cities to vibrant food scenes. So no matter what type of adventure you’re out to have, we’ve got you covered: These are the best solo female travel destinations for 2020.

1. For first-timers: Iceland

Photo: Creative Family/Shutterstock

Some may say Iceland’s reign as the must-visit destination for solitude-loving adventurers and photographers is coming to an end with the demise of its low-cost airfare options. Well, if interest in Iceland is waning, that’s good news for solo travelers as there will be fewer crowds to contend with, and you’ll get all those amazing landscapes to yourself.

Solo travelers will find a great base camp in the capital city of Reykjavik, which, thanks to the boom, has blossomed into a truly cosmopolitan city full of both local and international dining options, diverse shopping, cultural diversions like museums and tours, and more. It’s also extremely walkable and easy to navigate solo.

From Reykjavik, it’s easy to branch out and explore nearby attractions like the Blue Lagoon and Black Sand Beach; in fact, many of southern Iceland’s most popular sites are within driving distance of the city. You can either choose to rent a car and explore on your own or take a group tour if you’d like to meet new people, especially during the high season months of June to August. But 2020 promises to be an especially good year for solo travel in Iceland because, in an effort to reduce crowds at overrun sites on the southern half of the island, Iceland’s tourism board has been improving infrastructure to promote more off-the-beaten destinations further afield like the Westfjords or the northern reaches of the country.

Furthermore, there’s no language barrier, with 99 percent of Icelanders speaking fluent English, and their friendly, open cultural attitudes make it easy to ask locals for help or advice. Plus, your tourism dollars will be supporting a country that ranks first in gender equality, having had female presidents, taken on the gender pay gap, and possessing a culture that is supportive of strong women — you won’t even get cat-called here.

The sole caveat would be to always be careful when venturing out into the landscapes alone; Iceland’s nature is beautiful but can be deadly due to extreme weather, so if you are off exploring on your own, check the weather, bring the right gear, and make sure someone knows where you’re going.

2. For the trailblazers: Saudi Arabia

Photo: Hafizzuddin/Shutterstock

For years, Saudi Arabia remained largely closed off from the outside world, accessible mainly to those undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. But the kingdom is opening up to visitors, with the release late last year of a new tourist visa for 49 different countries, as well as relaxed dress rules for foreign women such as not requiring the use of an abaya (the traditional long, black dress that covers Saudi women’s body and hair). With traditional Arab hospitality fostering a culture of safety and respect, increased access for both foreign and Saudi women to travel at leisure, and the fact that some tour companies now hire female guides, Saudi Arabia is clearly taking steps to prove it’s a modern country for modern women, especially solo travelers.

As with many Middle Eastern destinations, Saudi Arabia’s past sits juxtaposed with its present, with ancient archeological sites a short drive from innovative, 21st-century hubs of technology and commerce. The capital of Ridyah is chock-full of historic buildings, like the Al Murabba Palace, but also modern skyscrapers, cutting-edge museums, and luxe shopping and dining, all accessed via the favored mode of transport: Uber.

The country is home to five different UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the spectacular Mada’in Saleh, a stone-carved palace made by the same empire that built Petra. You can pound the pavement in cities to visit classic markets, fortresses, and cafes (coffee culture is huge here) or head out into the desert on trekking expeditions to the Edge of the World, a prominent rock pinnacle overlooking the desert. Go to electronic music festivals, dive or swim in the warm waters of the Red Sea, stroll along the stylish Jeddah waterfront, view the spectacular architecture in Medina… really, the list goes on and on.

There is still some gender segregation that female visitors will have to deal with (like male-only pools or stores), and dressing modestly is encouraged, but overall, solo travelers who have visited since the visas became available have reported feeling safe, comfortable, and at ease. Still, do your research before going: Saudi Arabia’s human rights record is far from clean, so concerns about spending your time and money here are valid. But if you do decide to go, you’ll be among the first.

3. For the foodies: Mexico

Photo: PR Image Factory/Shutterstock

Mexico is a thriving, vibrant, and welcoming destination for eager travelers looking to dive into a new culture, language, and lifestyle. Oh, and food.

Mexico City is one of the great foodie cities of the world, where you can have everything from Japanese food that’s on-par with what you would find in actual Japan to tacos so good they’ll give you an existential crisis. Some of the world’s most celebrated fine-dining restaurants call Mexico City home, but the street food here is also legendary. At night, you can hop between trendy mezcal bars and historic cantinas. Between all the eating, try to make time to walk the city’s many vibrant barrios, visiting local artisan shops, galleries, and world-class museums. Mexico City is renowned for attracting ex-pats, so you’re bound to meet people from all over, either passing through or who’ve lived here for ages.

Venturing further afield, Oaxaca is the home of that oh-so-hip-right-now tipple, mezcal. Around the state, you can visit the traditional palenques where the agave hearts are cooked and then ground down and mashed to ferment into mezcal. Oaxaca City is another big foodie destination, as well, and is famous for its street food and regional dishes like posole, mole, and chapulines (grasshoppers.) No matter where you go in Mexico, you’re bound to find some great eats.

4. For Mars on Earth: Jordan

Photo: Simbarashe Sakuinje/Shutterstock

Even amid ongoing conflicts in neighboring countries, Jordan’s staid safety and security, open and welcoming culture, friendly and helpful locals, hip city life, and out-of-this-world landscapes have made it a must in the solo travel world.

Sitting right at the point where Africa meets the Middle East, this multicultural country is home to some of the most amazing archeological finds on Earth, making it a must-visit for lovers of culture and history. Naturally, the most famous site is the ancient sandstone city of Petra. But there’s much more, like Bethany Beyond The Jordan, where it’s said Jesus Chris was baptized, or the ancient amphitheater and free-standing columns of Jerash. Urbanites will find much to enjoy in the capital of Amman, with museums, ancient architecture, and souk markets to visit during the day. Once the sun goes down the city’s nightlife scene takes over at flashy dance clubs or chill shisha bars. Amman is also a great place to experience Jordan’s delicious cuisine, such as falafel, kanafeh, and mansaf. From Amman, it’s also an easy day trip to the Dead Sea, where you can feel weightless floating on the heavily salted waters.

Outdoor and adventure travel has also taken off in Jordan in recent years thanks to its expansive deserts, red rock mountains, and meandering canyons. Solo hikers and backpackers are rapidly falling in love with the Jordan Trail, a multi-day backpacking trail spanning the entire country. It’s a popular route, so it’s easy to link up with a group or make new friends along the trail to travel with. Along its 400 miles, you see and experience the best of Jordan, including Petra, the Martian-esque landscapes of Wadi Rum, and the sparkling shores of the Red Sea. Along the trail, you can also learn about traditional Bedouin culture by visiting or even staying at one of their camps.

As a country with liberal attitudes toward women’s rights, female solo travel here is on the ups, making it easy to get around on your own or to join a group. Solo travel reviews of Jordan couldn’t be more glowing.

5. For nature-lovers: Chile

Photo: Anton_Ivanov/Shutterstock

Chile has climbed the charts in recent years to become a top destination, and now, at the height of its boom, it’s fully ready to embrace solo travelers. Getting around the country by bus, low-budget airline, or car has never been easier. Hostels and hotels up and down the country are stuffed with international visitors. Although most Chileans outside of Santiago or major tourist towns don’t speak much English, they are extremely friendly people who are always eager to offer advice or aid.

And that’s just the logistics. Then there’s what to do. If you’re visiting in summer, there’s trekking or hiking among the mountains and glaciers of Patagonia, rafting past volcanoes in the Lakes District, wandering the colorful streets of the seaside city of Valparaiso, wine-tasting in Casablanca, and stargazing in the Atacama Desert. In winter, there’s world-class skiing or snowboarding outside the capital city of Santiago, which is coming into its own as a cosmopolitan hub, with a vibrant foodie scene, fun and quirky neighborhoods, and excellent cultural attractions like historic buildings and museums. Chile is also one of the best places to get to Easter Island, where you can visit the world-famous Moai statues, hike up volcanoes, try traditional foods, and watch local dances.

6. For the ‘gram: Morocco

Photo: illpaxphotomatic/Shutterstock

Fashionistas, design lovers, and aspiring influencers take note: Morocco — with its multicultural European, Arabian, and Berber influences; splendid cities of maze-like markets and elegant architecture; and picturesque backcountry — should take top priority for your next solo travel adventure. Morocco is one of Africa’s safest destinations, and the only thing solo travelers should be aware of is dressing conservatively in this largely Muslim country. Morocco is also really easy to navigate thanks to an extensive public transit system.

As Africa’s first-ever City of Culture, Marrakech is a great jumping-off point, packed with museums, galleries, and shops. Two must-visits are the calming Majorelle Gardens, populated with unique plant life and a beautiful Art Deco house, and the chic museum honoring designer Yves Saint Laurent who lived in Marrakech for a number of years. Shoppers will have a field day in the famous medina, a teeming marketplace stocked with everything from colorful piles of spices to opulent rugs. The city of Fez is also famed for its medina, and the varied architecture of cities like Casablanca, Tangier, and Chefchaouen (a city of entirely blue buildings) makes them perfect for exploring and photoshoots.

As fabulous as Morocco’s cities are, it’s well worth getting out of town to explore the country’s deserts and mountains, like camel-riding to the golden dunes of Erg Chigaga. The rugged Atlas Mountains are especially great for trekking and hiking, and the summit of Mount Toubkal, Africa’s highest peak, is easily achievable. And there’s no better guide to help you navigate the mountains than Hafida Hdoubane. In 1994, she became Morocco’s first female mountain guide and now leads trekking tours both for international tour operators like Wild Women Expeditions and with her own tour company. She also provides access to traditional Berber villages in the region, acting as an interpreter so her clients can learn more about the indigenous Berber culture and way of life. And now, the example Hdoubane has set is opening the doors for more women to become guides as well.

7. For a good time: South Korea

Photo: Travel man/Shutterstock

With modern infrastructure, efficient public transportation, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes, South Korea ranks high on many travelers’ bucket lists. But if you like to party, Seoul needs to be the city you visit this year. This modern city of nearly 10 million is a nightlife hotspot — and not just at traditional nightclubs. There are late-night bars and lounges like The Library, where you can sit back and relax with a book and a good drink until the wee hours, and plenty of LGBTQ-friendly spots. The late-night Dongdaemun night market is also a popular stop, especially for some delicious street eats. But Seoul shines during the day, as well, with ancient palaces like Gyeongbokgung, temples, markets, skyscrapers, and hip restaurants and bars. And, if you’re a K-Pop fan, you’ll be able to indulge your passion at shows, visiting the SMTOWN Museum, and mastering K-Pop dance moves at specialized lessons.

Getting outside the city with the aid of cheap and efficient public transport via buses or the high-speed railway, you can explore the surrounding countryside, like the tranquil Boseong green tea fields, or Jeju, a volcanic island paradise of sandy beaches, waterfalls, and cherry blossoms that’s known as the Hawaii of South Korea. You can hike to the top of forest-shrouded peaks in Bukhansan National Park, chow down on traditional bibimbap in Jeonju, and learn more about Korean history by visiting the Demilitarized Zone between North and South Korea.

As a country with a strong sense of respect and community, it’s also super easy to make friends with Koreans as a solo traveler. A growing ex-pat scene, largely made up of English teachers, means it’s also easy to meet people from around the world. English is widely spoken, so it can be easy to interact with the locals. It’s also overall more affordable than many other countries in the region.

8. For disconnecting: Cuba

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There’s a lot of misinformation surrounding US travel to Cuba, but the good news is that, yes, you can easily travel to Cuba with a US passport, and even take a direct flight from select cities — it’s no longer necessary to go through Mexico or Canada. But all that confusion may be to your advantage, as you can discover this rising solo travel star before the hordes do.

You’ve likely heard about Havana’s notorious, rum-fueled party scene, and it doesn’t disappoint, with lively bars, art galleries, and salsa dancing clubs going until the late hours. During the day, either stroll or take a vintage car to view the many historic buildings or districts like the UNESCO-certified Old Havana, visit the Malecon sea wall, browse local stores and artisan shops, and tour a cigar factory.

With taxis readily available in the cities and bus service throughout the island, it’s also easy and cheap to get around and explore spots further afield like the beach at Playa de Estes, Bellamar Caves, colorful houses of Trinidad, and verdant mountains and forests of the Vinales. In rural parts of the island, you’ll find more natural areas for outdoor sports like hiking, boating, and wildlife spotting. And Cuba’s foodie scene is rapidly growing, with hearty, flavorful dishes like ropa vieja served at small paladares (Cuban private restaurants) and street food carts.

If you’re looking to disconnect, Cuba is also a great option as the WiFi is state-controlled and so not always readily available; this means you’ll need to do your research on activities or where to go in advance or, better yet, ask the locals. Another perk for solo female travelers is the chance to stay in a casa particular, where local families rent out spare rooms in their home, allowing guests to stay in a traditional Cuban house and partake of their food and traditions but also get to know other travelers staying with them.

9. For going the distance: New Zealand

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If you’re the adventurous type who wants to spend their solo travel venture immersed in spectacular, rugged landscapes ranging from mountains to fjords to lakes, New Zealand is the place for you. Thanks to an abundance of varied environments, this small island country has an outsized reputation for adventure travel and outdoor sports, from basics like hiking to going ice-caving inside glaciers.

Culture and leisure lovers will also find much to their fancy. In towns like Rotorua, you can learn about and immerse yourself in the Maori culture, watch performances, try traditional foods, and visit artist workshops to observe carving and weaving demonstrations. In cities like Wellington, Auckland, and Queenstown, there are burgeoning foodie scenes celebrating native ingredients and cuisines. In the country’s famous wine regions, you can cycle between vineyards to taste the island’s best varietals like pinot noir and sauvignon blanc. And, of course, there are over 9,300 miles of coastline, with lovely beaches like the famous Ninety Mile Beach for stunning, swimming, or surfing.

From a logistical standpoint, New Zealand is also really easy to get around, especially if you’re the kind of person who likes planning an itinerary in advance. Although most cities and towns have public transport, renting a car to get out in the countryside offers the best ease of access.


More like this: It’s 2020. Stop pitching solo female travelers ‘safe’ destinations.

The post The best destinations for solo female travel in 2020 appeared first on Matador Network.

Hike Hungary’s National Blue Trail

Hungary impresses visitors with its vibrant and photogenic capital Budapest. Yet even that capital hints at what else there is to be enjoyed beyond its urban charms, as it’s made up not just of bustling Pest on one side of the Danube River but also the rolling hills of Buda on the other. In fact, those Buda Hills contain one stretch of a much longer hiking path that cuts across the country and was the first official long-distance hike in Europe. Established in 1938, the National Blue Trail, or Kéktúra, passes fertile countryside, vineyards, palaces, and the most stunning sections of the Danube. Well known among Hungarians, the Blue Trail is only now gaining international attention. Here’s what you need to know about walking Hungary’s beloved path, and some highlights to expect along the way.

The Kéktúra traverses Hungary

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The National Blue Trail is 1130 kilometers, or 700 miles, and runs from the peak of Irottkő Mountain on the Austrian border in the west to the small village of Hollóház near the border with Slovakia in the northeast. The National Blue Trail also forms part of the E4, a European long-distance trail that runs from Portugal to Cyprus.

Situated in the lowlands of the Carpathian Basin, Hungary is mostly flat with a few mountain ranges in the north, namely the Transdanubian Mountains and North Hungarian Mountains. The highest point in the entire country and on the trail is only 3,327 feet. You won’t find dramatic peaks and steep ascents here but rather gently undulating hills and easy terrain. This makes the National Blue Trail not as strenuous as such renowned long-distance hikes like the Pacific Crest Trail or the New Zealand’s Great Walks. The low altitude and moderate difficulty make it accessible to almost anyone with a reasonable level of fitness.

The trail takes you on a rewarding adventure through Hungary to its varied terrain and unique sights. Expect vast deciduous forests, historic villages, rolling hills, thermal lakes, wine regions, Lake Balaton, several national parks, capital city time in Budapest, ancient castles, and ruined fortresses.

What to know before you go

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The trail takes about 57 days to complete. To be an official finisher and earn a Blue Trail Badge, you need to get yourself a Blue Trail Passport beforehand and stamp it at 147 checkpoints along the trail. You’ll find these stamps in metal boxes on trees, fences, and walls along the path. The checkpoints are numbered from west to east, but the trail can be completed in any order and over any length of time. So even if you don’t have the time to do it all in one go, you can hike it in stages over several months or years and still earn the coveted badge.

No permits are required to hike any length of the trail. These paths can be freely traveled by anyone, and you will find many locals enjoying day hikes along the route, especially on weekends. The most popular times on the trail are in August and September when the weather is warm. The fall months from September to November are particularly beautiful, as the leaves change into their fall colors.

You also won’t have to haul weeks’ worth of food and water with you in your backpack. Every day the trail passes through villages, which have small shops with basic supplies. You’ll be able to stock up on fresh bread, Hungarian salami, pastries, fresh fruit, and granola bars. Bigger towns have supermarkets and restaurants, too, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to refuel with some goulash, Hungary’s best known national dish. Most shops will be closed on Sundays, so bear that in mind when meal planning. As for water, there are plenty of public water fountains for drinking water and filling up a CamelBak or bottle along the way.

Apart from Budapest and a few other major centers, you will struggle to find people who can speak and understand English well. Hungarian is a notoriously difficult language to learn, though it’s a good idea to know at least a few basic phrases before you go. At the very least, download a translation app on your phone. Even if you can’t communicate well together, you’ll discover that the locals are more than happy to help you along your way and even share with you some homemade pálinka, the traditional fruit spirit.

Accommodation on the trail

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If you love camping, or are just looking to save on accommodation costs, you’ll be happy to learn that wild camping is legally allowed on public land in Hungary if you stay fewer than 24 hours. Note that wild camping is not, however, allowed in national parks. To keep a roof over your head, you’re spoiled for choice with accommodation along the route. Guesthouses, known in Hungarian as vendégház, offer simple rooms for as little as $7 to $20.

Getting there and navigating the trail

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The National Blue Trail is operated by The Hungarian Hikers Association. The path is well maintained and marked by a horizontal blue stripe between two white stripes painted on trees, walls, gates, and fences all along the trail. Be sure to download their official free app, Természetjáró, for detailed descriptions and elevation profiles of each section, and a map that can be used for offline navigation.

Hungary has a comprehensive public transport network of trains and buses across the country. The start of the trail, Irottkő Mountain, is on the Hungarian-Austrian border and can be reached easily from Budapest. Trains depart from Keleti station several times a day; with one change you’ll get to Kőszeg, near the start of the trail, in 3.5 hours.

What to see (and photograph) along the way

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Countless geological, historic, and scenic sights pepper the trail. The Természetjáró app has a detailed description of the highlights and attractions of each stage, but here are our choices of the top highlights of the trail to ignite your Blue Trail wanderlust.

Irottkő lookout tower

It’s here at the beginning of the trail where you get the first stamp in your Blue Trail Passport to officially begin your trek. The Irottkő mountain lookout tower sits exactly on the border, with the entrance on the Austrian side. It’s only since the early 1990s, post-Iron Curtain, that it’s been possible to climb the tower from the Hungarian side, and you can still sense the previous Cold War history as you look out over the two countries.

Kőszeg

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Kőszeg, the first town the trail passes through, is worth taking some time to explore. It has a well-preserved historic center, medieval city walls, and the 13th-century Jurisics Castle, which was named after Baron Nikola Jurisic, who in the 1500 led a heroic defense of the castle against persistent Ottoman invaders.

Lake Hévíz

People travel from across Europe to soak in the world’s second-largest thermal lake. Lake Hévíz is known for its healing properties, which are due to the presence of calcium, magnesium, sulfur, and other minerals in the water. A soak here will definitely rejuvenate you after a long day’s hike.

Buda Hills

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The trail doesn’t take you into the hustle and bustle of central Budapest but skirts around it through the undulating Buda Hills. Climb the Erzsebet Lookout Tower in Normafa Park for great views of the city and the Danube. Among the many unique things to do here, you could take a ride through the forests on The Children’s Railway, a railway line run almost completely by children. If you do wander into busy Budapest, you could rest your tired muscles at one of its famed thermal spas or, if you’d prefer to recuperate over a beer, hit up one of the city’s iconic ruin bars.

Lake Balaton

Not far from Hévíz is the largest lake in central Europe, known affectionately as “The Hungarian Sea.” Locals flock to this striking aquamarine lake during the summer months for camping, sailing, and music festivals. The trail traverses the Balaton Uplands on the north shore of the lake and is one of the most scenic sections of the trail. This area was a hotspot for volcanic activity millions of years ago, and you will climb several extinct volcanoes on the trail. Locals and hikers alike enjoy the three wine regions here: Balatonfüred-Csopak, Balaton-felvidék, and Badacsony.

Visegrád Castle

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Built in the 13th century, this hilltop citadel served as the residence of numerous Hungarian kings and the home of the Hungarian Crown Jewels. Its imposing walls and location high above the Danube alone are impressive, but inside you’ll also find interesting exhibitions on display. One of Hungary’s most popular historic festivals, The Palace Games, also takes place here every July.

The Danube Bend

At the Danube Bend, Dunakanyar, the Danube river takes a sharp turn between the mountains to become almost horseshoe-shaped before flowing southwards. Many people say that this is the most beautiful stretch of the entire river. The best view on the trail is from the Julianus Lookout Tower, where you have a fantastic panorama of the surrounding lush hills, Visegrad Castle, and the Danube Bend.

Hollókő World Heritage site

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The enchanting old village of Hollókő is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This traditional agricultural settlement gives you a peek into what rural life was like in the 17th and 18th centuries. This is a living settlement still inhabited by the Páloc people, an ethnic subgroup of Hungarians with their own dialect and traditions. You can stop in the village to learn traditional pottery and weaving from the locals, try unique Páloc delicacies, and, if you are lucky with timing, experience one of their many annual folk festivals.

Mátra Mountains

These mountains are the highest in Hungary and the steepest section on the trail. It’s in this area that you will conquer the highest point in Hungary, Kékestető, at 1,014 meters (3,326 feet). Along the trail in these beech- and oak-covered rugged mountains, you’ll have the best chance of spotting wildlife like red deer, wild boar, wild cat, and salamander.

Aggtelek caves

The Aggtelek Karst cave system in Hungary and Slovakia is a UNESCO World Heritage site containing over 1,200 caves. The trail passes the entrance to the largest and most magnificent cave in the entire system, the 13-mile-long Baradla-Domica cave system, packed with eerie stalactites and stalagmites.


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