15 Beautiful And Bizarre Things To Discover In Mexico

Many tourists are attracted to Mexico for its sun, sand, and culture. Looking to veer off of the beaten path? These are the country’s best-kept secrets.

1. Hierve el Agua

Mexico is known for its picturesque beaches, but the natural mineral springs of Hierve el Agua reveal a much different side to the surf you’d expect.

The Central Valleys of Oaxaca are home to these natural mineral springs that have formed over thousands of years. They appear to be waterfalls that have frozen over while careening down a cliff. The mineral pools that sit at the edge of the cliffs are just as beautiful.

A visit to the two falls, “cascada grande” and “cascada chica,” is well worth the drive and short hike. You can even cool off by taking a swim in one of the mineral pools. You have to see Hierve el Agua for yourself —it’s one of nature’s most breathtaking surprises.

2. Cafebreria el Pendulo

Nestled in the heart of Mexico City, Cafebreria El Pendulo is a book lover’s dream. This two-story bookstore is also a cafe and a forest, allowing you to relax in nature with a good read and a warm espresso. Why just visit a traditional cafe when you can witness the spiral staircases and ivy-lined bookshelves of Cafebreria El Pendulo? Recline on a sofa on the first floor, or sit at the bar and enjoy a drink. A trip here will ignite your imagination, making you the main character of your own Mexican fairytale.

3. Snack On A Cucamelon

Mexican delicacies are plentiful, but the cucamelon is one of the most remarkable. This grape-sized fruit resembles a tiny watermelon, but once you bite into it you’ll taste cucumber. Native to Mexico, these adorable oddities are referred to as “sandita” or “little watermelon.” Try a bite at a local market and see how your taste buds can totally confuse you!

4. Swim With Whale Sharks

A visit to Isla Mujeres, only an eight-minute boat ride from the spring break hotspot of Cancún, gives tourists the rare opportunity to splash around with some of the world’s most fascinating sea creatures — whale sharks the size of school buses!

They generally don’t bother with humans and swim remarkably slow, making it a safe and life-changing experience to share their company. This dive is sure to take your breath away in the best possible way. Snorkeling along the surface is just as rewarding; there’s vibrant aquatic life everywhere you look here.

5. La Pascualita

Mexico is rich with interesting peculiarities, but the city of Chihuahua is home to one of the most bizarre the country has to offer.

La Pascualita is an 80-year-old mannequin dressed in a wedding dress, and she has been terrifying shoppers who pass La Popular for nearly a century. She appears so lifelike that some locals believe she is the corpse of the original shop owner’s daughter, who died from a spider bite. Eerie yet enticing, La Pascualita is an attraction that will test your superstitions. This attraction takes window shopping to an entirely new level.

6. Playa del Amor

The Hidden Beach — part of the Marietta Islands west of Puerto Vallarta — is one of Mexico’s most unmissable destinations. As the name suggests, the Hidden Beach is literally a hole in the middle of an island that contains a small beach. Secluded and invisible from the outside, Playa del Amor can be accessed via tour groups. This enclave allows you to enjoy the Pacific Ocean in a totally unconventional, unexpected way.

7. La Casa Azul

If you want to revel in the inspiring art and colorful culture of Mexico, La Casa Azul is sure to catch your eye. The former childhood home of beloved Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, this striking blue building has become a museum in her honor. Now filled with her surreal artwork, this was where Kahlo once taught herself to paint. A visit to the museum will have you feeling like you are reliving a pivotal part of Mexican history, and Kahlo’s paintings will stay in your mind long after you leave.

8. Playa Hermosa

Mexican ruins are a popular tourist attraction, and the history behind Playa Hermosa is undeniably intriguing. A now-abandoned resort in San Blas, this seaside escape was once a booming vacation spot for celebrities in the 1950’s. Stars such as Jim Morrison used to flock to Playa Hermosa regularly to drink and party, but once mosquitoes — yes, mosquitoes! — began to take over, the resort slowly began to decay. This little piece of forgotten history is a must-see — just don’t forget your bug spray!

9. Mercado de Sonora

Travel is best done with an open mind, and there is nowhere better to explore the great unknown than Mercado de Sonora in Mexico City. This marketplace is dedicated to everything witchcraft, and there is no shortage of mystical novelty in the shops at Sonora. Pick up magic soap, peruse through aisles of voodoo dolls, or simply marvel at whatever ‘sorcery’ you can find. The Mercado de Sonora is eccentric and undoubtedly magical —in one way or another. It’s definitely your one-stop shop for clever and baffling souvenirs.

Self-Portrait with Bonito by Frida Kahlo.

10. Tacos Gus

A visit to the neighborhood of La Condesa in Mexico City is not complete without enjoying some authentic tacos. Mexican food is filled with a panoply of flavors and fresh ingredients. Tacos Gus, a local spot, will expose you to all that Mexican cuisine can do to your palette. This eatery offers 20 different tacos, with a variety of vegan and vegetarian options available for those with dietary restrictions. The fresh ingredients are stored in large clay pots on the counter, giving you a clear look at the preparation of genuine Mexican fare.

11. Pyramids Of Teotihuacan

Mexico isn’t the first place you associate with ancient pyramids, but the city of Teotihuacan certainly has some. About an hour outside Mexico City, Teotihuacan has stood for about 2,000 years.

The pyramids are larger than life, but even more astounding is the mystery of the origin of this ancient metropolis. It is unknown who built the structures, but we do know the city’s decline began when a fire destroyed many of its neighborhoods around 1,400 years ago.

Don’t have time to tour all of Teotihuacan? Make sure you climb the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon — the two largest ones. The trek may be a little tiring, but it’s worthwhile to know you’re walking in the footsteps of the mysterious artisans who created this ghost city two millennia ago.

12. Punta Monterrey

Looking to enjoy the beach, but want to take a more rustic — and romantic — approach? The Punta Monterrey resort is 15 minutes from San Pancho, but it’s tucked away in the jungle, making for a secluded and serene getaway. It even boasts its own private beach, which you can enjoy after taking a quick hike through the jungle or enjoying a meal cooked with ingredients fresh from the resort’s garden. The stay is insanely budget-friendly, costing less than $100 per night. A weekend at Punta Monterrey is sure to refresh your mind and rejuvenate your spirit!

http://monterreybeach.com/

13. Las Pozas

Nestled in the small town of Xilitla, Las Pozas is the work of English poet and semi-exile Edward James. James was intrigued by Surrealist art, sponsoring Salvador Dali during the 1930’s. The sculpture garden of Las Pozas is truly a testament to James’ love of surrealism, and it will make you feel as if you fell down the rabbit hole into Wonderland. The garden is filled with natural and man-made delights unlike anything you have ever seen, so be sure to bring your camera!

14. Cactus Flower Ice Cream

This Mexican delicacy is exotic and rather refreshing, and the light green color just urges you to take a bite. Made from the fruit of a cactus plant — as you might have guessed! — cactus flower ice cream is delightfully sweet, with the texture of cucumber. This makes it the perfect summertime treat, especially when you are sweltering under the hot Mexican sun. Don’t let the ice cream shops fool you; “tuna” is the word they use for the cactus flower in Mexico, so if you see tuna ice cream on the menu, no need to hold your nose.

15. Minichelista

If you find yourself searching for a quick bite to eat in the heart of Mexico City, Minichelista is by far the most vibrant local spot. From hookah to coffee — and even a side of chicken wings — this tiny restaurant is colorful and charismatic; the entire building has been transformed into a work of art. Eye-popping graffiti and scrap objects made into furniture are just a few of the amusements that await you here. It’s obvious this establishment was created by artists. Since its beginnings 10 years ago, it has become the strangest and most endearing eatery in the city.

14 Less Well-Known Italian Attractions

You already know you need to see the Colosseum, Pompeii, and Venice, but if you’re looking for the full, authentic Italian treatment, here are some ideas that might inspire you.

1. Visit Monte Mario

The highest point in the city of Rome, Monte Mario is the place to be if you want to see those unparalleled, second-to-none views of the city.

A mere 15-minute drive from the city center, Monte Mario is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset and soak in the glorious beauty of this ancient city. While a little off-the-beaten-track, a visit is so worth it if you’re looking to see Roma at its finest, away from the typical hustle and bustle.

2. Eat The World’s Rarest Pasta

Though it requires an epic 20-mile pilgrimage to the entrance of Santuario di San Francesco, it’stotally worth the effort if you’re a die-hard pasta lover.

Translated as “Threads of God,” su filindeu is unimaginably intricate and time-consuming to create. In fact, it’s currently made by only three women on Earth – hence why it’s renowned as the rarest pasta in the world.

Mastering the technique this noodle demands is so complicated that celebrity chef Jamie Oliver gave up after a mere two hours. Engineers at the prestigious Barilla pasta company even attempted to create a machine to manufacture su filindeu: all attempts have so far been unsuccessful. (Take that, robots!)

To get your chance at trying this incredibly rare masterpiece, it’s essential you book a trip to Sardinia during May or October when the Feast of San Francesco takes place.

3. Spend A Night In Umbria

Often overshadowed by the ever-popular neighboring duchy of Tuscany, Umbria isjust as stunning and historic. Far less busy and much cheaper too, Umbria is the ideal destination if you want to pass a few quiet, unassuming days somewhere new – but old!

Dripping with medieval ambiance – hilly villages, summer festivals, inimitable Italian cuisine – renting an Umbrian farmhouse for a few days will shed a whole new light on the bucolic charms of old Italy.

4. Sunbathe At Lido Di Venezia

Venice is one of Italy’s most popular destinations, and for good reason! The City of Canals is simply bursting with romance. But Venice can sometimes be a little busy and overwhelming during the summer months, especially if you’re looking for something more low-key.

To experience the subtler side of Venice, take a short ride to Lido di Venezia, a 7-mile stretch of sand with gorgeous views and sophisticated beach bars. Here you can sip on Venetian culture away from the tourist traps. Lido di Venezia is the ideal place to kick back and catch some sun.

5. Visit The Gucci Museum

A second-to-none yet little-known activity for avid fashion lovers? A visit to the Gucci Museum in Florence is guaranteed to impress.

Showcasing authentic vintage Gucci work with a menagerie of pieces from every era since the brand was founded in 1921, this museum houses the essence of haute couture.

Fun in the sun awaits at Lido Di Venezia.

6. Experience The Ruins Of Herculaneum

Everyone knows the tragic story of Pompeii, but the neighboring hamlet of Herculaneum is often forgotten.

Situated on the north side of the volcano Vesuvius, and thought to have been buried a few days after Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, Herculaneum reveals secrets of Italian history you can’t unearth anywhere else.

With most of its ruins still resembling the original structures, you can view preserved mosaics that once adorned the villas of wealthy Romans and feel the calamity of this little-known town in your bones as you walk its desiccated streets.

7. Take In The Beauty Of Grotta Azzura

Also known as the “Blue Grotto” in English, Grotta Azzura is thought to be the personal swimming hole of the ancient Emperor Tiberius. True to its name, the water in the grotto can almost be said to glow, rippling brilliant, transparent blue.

The only way to enter the grotto is via a small rowing boat, through a culvert in the face of a perpendicular cliff. And, as the opening is a mere 4 feet high and 4 feet wide, it’s a tight squeeze! But once you get in, you’ll have an experience unlike any you’ve had before!

Accessible by bus from Anacapri or by boat from Marina Grande, make sure to plan your visit in good weather, as Grotta Azzura is closed on windy days for safety reasons.

8. Go To Church

Even if you’re not particularly religious, experiencing an Italian church service is with increase the cultural payoff of your trip.

Though Italy is a predominantly Catholic country, not every single person will abide by Catholic teachings in their everyday lives – naturally. But since religion plays such a huge role in Italy’s identity, experiencing a church service is an important way of immersing yourself in the heritage.

All church pages and information booklets will list the hours of scheduled services which you can attend.

9. View The Pyramid Of Cestius

While pyramids are more closely associated with Egypt (and rightly so!), the Pyramid of Cestius is the only “Egyptian” pyramid in Europe.

Situated in Rome near the Porta San Paolo, Cestius was originally built (around 12 BC) as a lavish tomb for a wealthy Roman priest of the same name.

Standing an impressive 120 feet high and featuring a much sharper angle than the traditional pyramids of Egypt, this unusual cenotaph is well worth a look.

10. See An Italian Soccer Game

Even if you’re not a soccer fan, or a fan of sport in general, attending an Italian soccer game is a experience like no other.

Italians are notoriously passionate about their soccer clubs. In fact, soccer could more accurately be considered their second religion!

The intensity at these events is simply second-to-none, giving you of that famous Italian spirit that you won’t get anywhere else.

11. Let Your Hair Down At The Carpino Folk Festival

Italians are known for their fun-loving nature, but nothing proves why quite like the Carpino Folk Festival.

By day, this small village lounges in peace and tranquility. But every August it transforms itself into an exciting open-air theater to which thousands of lovers of traditional music flock to chat, and sway, and dance the night away.

Featuring an array of colorful performances, cinematic shows, and workshops, the Carpino Folk Festival is an absolute must for people of all ages who enjoy good music and fun.

The Pyramid of Cestius. Carole Raddato/Flickr.

12. Visit Rome’s Vegan Cat Cafe

One of Rome’s best kept secrets, the Vegan Cat Cafe is perfect if you’re looking to branch out from typical Italian dining.

Unlike the suburbs full of traditional pizza and pasta restaurants Rome has on offer, the Vegan Cat Cafe is precisely what its name suggests – a cafe bursting with delicious vegan options, with cats occupying virtually every available space.

It might not be the best option if you’re meat-eating or allergic to felines, but it’s great if you’re a cat lover and looking to experience another, more modern side of Italian food.

13. Watch A Living Chess Game

Every other September, Marotisca transforms the classic game of chess into a real-life spectator sport.

Taking place over three days right in the center of town, these games feature human chess pieces dressed in traditional 15th-century costumes.

Guaranteed to impress, with accompanying period dances, music, fireworks, and parades, many flock to Marotisca to watch the chess.

14. Visit A Medieval Village

Situated in Turin’s Valentino Park, this medieval village is a perfect replica of a 15th century Piedmontese Village.

Effortlessly complex and including lively artisan shops, authentic narrow streets, and an expansive castle, this village will transport you back in time for an up-close an personal look at Italy’s past.

Viking Ruins & Enchanted Forests: 13 Unexpected Canadian Adventures

Canada is as diverse as it is vast, from cosmopolitan comforts to the endless silence of Arctic wilderness.

If you are looking for a world-class destination featuring natural wonders, rich history, luxurious accommodations, and top-shelf cuisine, check out these top Canadian vacation ideas.

13. Cosmopolitan Toronto

Canada is a massive country, so we’ll start off with its largest city, whose 2.7 million residents bustle with diversity and vibrancy. Toronto has everything you’d expect from a major metropolis. Visitors enjoy major league sports, film festivals, and countless performing arts venues. The CN Tower offers a bird’s eye view of the city, including Toronto Islands, the largest car-free urban area in North America. Some of the best dining experiences in Canada can be found in the city’s downtown, such as Momofuku Daisho, culinary titan David Chang’s take on the classic steakhouse.

12. Lakeshore, Ontario

After living it up in Toronto, head south to explore some of Canada’s lesser-known history. In the U.S., there are several well-known historical sites from the Underground Railroad, the network of routes and passageways used to help slaves escape to free states and Canada. Canada, however, paints a historical picture of the epilogue – the story of the new lives escaped slaves built in freedom. Lakeshore, Ontario – about 200 miles southwest of Toronto, close to Detroit – was one of the most popular destinations for escaped slaves. Black History is alive in this small city, as its community embraced freedom and many of those who made it into this town 150 years ago continued the fight against tyranny.

11. L’Anse Aux Meadows

If you think Christopher Columbus was the first European to set foot in North America in 1492, you would be wrong. He missed that record by about 500 years, as it turns out.

On the northernmost tip of the Canadian island of Newfoundland, there is an archaeological site that puts Viking settlers in Canada over one thousand years ago.

Discovered in 1960, the site (known as L’Anse Aux Meadows) has a possible connection to Norse explorer Leif Ericson’s Vinland colony. Today, you can see reproductions of the Viking settlement that once stood there and immerse yourself in its mysterious history. Sit around a roaring fire at the Viking Encampment and enjoy retellings of the Norse sagas of Thor, Loki, and Erik The Red.

Recreation Vikining house at L’Anse Aux Meadows, Newfoundland. D. Gordon E. Robertson/Wikimedia Commons

10. Blanc-Sablon, Quebec

About 500 years after the Vikings abandoned their settlement in Newfoundland, French explorer Jacques Cartier landed on the white sandy beaches of what is now northern Quebec. And in 1534, when Cartier planted a cross to bless the land, he was likely unaware that the site had been inhabited by humans for at least 9,000 years. In 2007, the area was designated a National Historic Site, and it has become something of a mecca for North American history buffs. From interactive displays and artwork to tours and reenactments, Blanc-Sablon celebrates almost 10,000 years of human history.

9. Camp Hughes, Manitoba

Few non-Canadians are aware of the important role the Great White North played in World War I. The history of the Canadian military in The Great War is displayed at Camp Hughes, which was a training ground for soldiers 100 years ago. The entire camp is now open to the public for hiking. Sites to visit include a large area of actual training trenches, the largest still extant in North America. Designated a National Historic Site in 2016, the camp has seen an uptick in visitors, with restored facilities, tours, and reenactments.

8. Halifax Harbour, Nova Scotia

Canada felt another pang of World War I when the entire harbor area of Halifax was leveled and many lives were lost on December 6, 1917. On that day, a Norwegian ship collided with a French boat full of explosive material headed off to Europe. Over 2,000 people died as a result, with up to 9,000 injured. In Halifax, you can check out the Harbour memorial and connect with Canada’s memory of The Great War, the “War to End All Wars.”

Halifax has more to offer than history; it’s also a booming city with a lively dining scene that features New Canadian cuisine at its finest. Check out the restaurant Edna a few blocks away from the Maritime Museum.

7. Enchanted Forest, British Columbia

A big bounce away, on the other side of the country, there is a magical place with hiking trails, amusement parks, and even a salmon run – oh, and gigantic gnome heads poking out of the ground. At Enchanted Forest, you are swept into a fantasy land that combines storybook fairies and elves with Pacific Northwest woodland beauty. And the fun is not just for kids. 350 of the aforementioned giant heads were designed by some of Canada’s best folk artists. You can also hang out in one of the largest treehouses on earth. Are you ever too grown-up for a treehouse? A large boardwalk threads its way through the forest, and you can take paddle boat trips over the wetlands and the nearby Eagle River.

6. The Canadian Wilderness

While enjoying some fantasy-inspired forests, look a little further north for some examples of the most remote and pristine wildernesses on earth. The Canadian territories of Yukon, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories each provide unique example of polar beauty. Set foot in the Arctic Circle, stay up to watch the northern lights, and breathe in the boundless peace of the north.

Or, if you don’t feel like going that far north, you can always check out Saskatchewan’s premier Elk Ridge Resort, on the border of Prince Albert National Park. There you can golf, fish, and enjoy all the benefits of civilization – on the edge of the wild.

An immaculate lake in Yukon Territory, Canada.

5. Banff, Alberta

The Banff National Park is the crown jewel of Canada’s natural beauty and rustic luxury. Famous for having some of the best golf courses in North America, Banff is one of Canada’s most popular tourist attractions. Take in the vistas of the surrounding mountain landscapes while you bask in the natural hot springs. You’ll also find some of the best skiing in Canada here, with Sunshine Village, Ski Norquay, and Lake Louise Mountain Resort all within the National Park area.

When you’re in Banff, stay in one of the historic luxury resorts, such as the Fairmont Banff Springs, and wake up to a serene mountain view unlike any other in the world.

4. Drumheller Dinosaurs

Not too far away from Banff, near Calgary, you can get as close to Jurassic Park as it’s possible to get. Drumheller, a UNESCO Heritage site, was once quite the stomping ground for dinosaurs of all varieties. Fifty-eight dinosaur species have been identified through fossils, and a central park celebrates scientific evidence of over 500 different species of life. At the Dinosaur Provincial Park Visitor Centre, you can view exhibits on dinosaurs, fossils, and the natural history of the site. The best time to visit is in the summer when public displays and outdoor theatre add to the richness of the dinosaur experience.

The Badlands of Dinosaur Provincial Park.

3. Montreal, Quebec: Old European Charm Spun Up With Urban Excitement

Montreal is well-known for its cosmopolitan charm. A major cultural center with museums, opera, theatre, and an amazing jazz festival every July, Montreal is like a mini-NYC mashed up with Paris. It’s smaller than Toronto and retains a lot of its old-world charm. A unique Quebecois culture weaves through its beautiful neighborhoods.

Dining is spectacular in the city, which is the epicenter of New Canadian cuisine. Fresh seafood shares the plate with maple syrup and farm produce. Try Montreal-style bagels, smoked meat, and poutine (classic french-fries with gravy and cheese curds). It’s refined comfort food at its finest, and at chef Chuck Hughes’ Garde Manger in Old Montreal, the dish is elevated with chunks of Atlantic Lobster.

Other must-see Montreal sights include the Biodome, which is a combination of a zoo, museum and nature center, and the site of the 1967 World Expo.

2. Give Peace A Chance

If you’re in Montreal, check out another stop that combines 60’s pop culture with politics and hospitality. The Fairmont Queen Elizabeth hotel provides first-class accommodations and is central to the main downtown strip. The hotel has a wonderful restaurant and bar, and its lobby is full of historical artifacts hearkening back to Montreal’s roots as a fur trading port. But up in room 1742, history was made when John Lennon and Yoko Ono staged their “bed-in” for peace. Today the hotel room is adorned with photos and memorabilia from the event, and is available to book as a guest room.

1. The Forks, Manitoba

Any trip across Canada should include a stop at The Forks in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The large public space has everything from art displays, festivals, premier shopping, and great dining options. The open space is at the center of Winnipeg’s downtown, so it’s easily accessible. In winter months, The Forks features outdoor skating and ice castles. When warmer weather arrives, enjoy boating on the nearby Red and Assiniboine Rivers, the displays of nature in the public gardens and orchards, or visit the outdoor marketplace.

Canada’s sheer size offers many choices for the traveler in search of history, excitement, luxury, and nature. Cross the country from the old world Europe-inspired Quebec to the serene isolation of the northern territories and soak in Canadian diversity, one stop at a time.

Palo Duro: America’s Second Largest Canyon

You know how the song goes: “The stars at night, are big and bright…”

Nowhere is that truer than at Palo Duro Canyon State Park in the heart of the Texas Panhandle. If you’ve never heard of it, you’re not alone; it’s not nearly as famous as it deserves to be. Nevertheless, it’s the second largest canyon in the United States – after the Grand Canyon. Of course, it’s impossible to compare the two, but Palo Duro does offer some advantages you won’t find anywhere else.

Size

It’s difficult being the second in anything: families, the Olympics, and – yes! – canyons.

Palo Duro Canyon is 120 miles long, over 800 feet deep, and 6 miles wide on average (but up to 20 miles wide at points). Compare that to the Grand Canyon which is 277 miles long, more than 5000 feet deep, and 18 miles from rim to rim. The Grand Canyon is jaw-dropping, but it almost looks like a painting when you’re standing on the edge of it.

Palo Duro Canyon, on the other hand, feels real. It’s beautiful and approachable, not so intimidating that you question how to tackle the adventure before you do.

Inside Palo Duro Canyon. — Silvio Ligutti / Shutterstock

Access

Palo Duro Canyon is about 30 minutes south of Amarillo, Texas. Once you’ve seen Cadillac Ranch and taken the 72oz Steak Challenge at The Big Texan in Amarillo, you’ll need a good, long walk.

But that may be one of the best parts about Palo Duro: you don’t need a mule, helicopter, or an all-day hike to get to the canyon floor. You don’t have to walk at all if you don’t want to. After paying the $5 per person fee to get in, you can drive down to the canyon floor, follow the road through the park, and drive right back out. There will be places you’ll want to stop, but it can be as quick a visit as you want to make it.

A group takes a horseback ride through Palo Duro Canyon. — Old West Stables

Experiences

Perhaps the biggest draw at Palo Duro is the beautiful system of trails, and the cathedral of canyon walls that surround it. You can walk, bike, even ride a horse through the canyon. (If you don’t have one of your own, Old West Stables will take you on a one-hour guided tour.)

No matter how you experience Palo Duro, you have to see the park’s iconic hoodoo known as The Lighthouse. Hoodoos are slender rock formations with a larger rock on top. You’ll only be able to see it from the canyon floor if you take the Lighthouse Trail, which is about 5.5 miles round trip. You can also get a look at it via the telescope at the Visitor’s Center.

The wonderful thing about any hike at Palo Duro is that you can go as far as you like, and turn around whenever you want. But you should spend the night if you really want to experience the peacefulness of the canyon; the expansive palette stars is worth staying for. There are campsites for RVs, campers, and tents to accommodate you. There are also four cabins on the canyon floor and three more on the rim. You can reserve your spot at the campsites or in the cabins online.

For more than 50 years, thousands have flocked to the canyon floor in the summer to enjoy performances of the musical drama TEXAS. The show takes place at the Pioneer Amphitheater Tuesday-Sunday starting at 8:30 p.m., and portrays the history of the people who settled the Texas Panhandle. There’s singing, dancing, Texas humor, and even fireworks at the end! You can visit backstage before the performance if you arrive before 7:15 p.m. If you care to come hungry, you can eat dinner in the canyon before the show for an additional cost. The producers recommend you get your tickets at least two weeks in advance.

A canyon wall in Palo Duro Canyon. — mhmartin1 / Shutterstock

Nature

The many-colored stone walls retell the 250 million year story of the canyon. Palo Duro was formed by the Prairie Dog Town Fork of the Red River, leaving behind four distinct geologic layers. There are wildflowers, grasses, yucca, and prickly pear cacti, as well as plenty of juniper, mesquite, and cottonwood trees on the canyon floor.

The canyon is also home to its share of wildlife. You may see snakes (some venomous), lizards, wild turkeys, coyotes, roadrunners, bobcats, deer, and several types of birds – including woodpeckers. The fauna may not entice you to come. But if you made it past ‘snakes’, knowing that the largest population of Palo Duro mice is also found here probably won’t bother you. This type of mouse is only found in three counties in Texas. Consider it a warning, consider it a reason to visit – it’s up to you.

You do need to be prepared when hiking, biking, or horseback riding on the trails, not just for the critters you might encounter, but for the heat as well. The weather varies greatly in the canyon throughout the year. There are signs at the trailheads which warn of the dangers of heat and urge everyone to carry at least a gallon of water per person (and pet). Hats, sunscreen, and anything else that could protect you from the sun are also a must. Thermometers in the park show the temperature the keep you apprised of the possibility of heat stroke. The park takes the safety of its visitors seriously, and those who work here want to make sure the beauty of the area doesn’t cause you to let your guard down.

View from the top of Palo Duro Canyon. — xradiophotog / Shutterstock

History

People have lived in the canyon for about 12,000 years. The earliest hunted mammoth and giant bison; archeologists have found tools, paintings, and other relics here.

It’s believed that early Spanish Explorers found the canyon and named it Palo Duro, which is Spanish for “hard wood,” because of the trees they found when they arrived. Native Americans called the canyon home until they were forced out in 1874. A few years later, JA Ranch began in the canyon with more than 1,500 head of Longhorn cattle.

Eventually, the State of Texas bought the upper section of the canyon which became Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

Photo Credit: Zack Frank / Shutterstock

Photo Credit: Daniel R Humphries / Shutterstock

Why Future Generations May Not See Venice

Venice is among the world’s most recognizable cities. Its 118 islands – set like jewels in the shallows of the Adriatic – its canals, bridges, cobblestone laneways, and renaissance flavors… All have inspired generations of lovers and pilgrims.

But all that may be about to change. It turns out this timeless city may be living on borrowed time.

A Floating City

According to legend (and, more than likely, fact) the city of Venice was founded in 421 AD, toward the end of the Roman Empire.

This was an era of great peril and chaos for the Romans, whose state was crumbling under the heels of invaders. Peasants in northern Italy could no longer be assured of their security, living as they did in poorly-defended outlying areas.

And so, a group of migrants made their way to a sheltered, marshy lagoon along Italy’s northeastern Mediterranean coast, taking refuge on an archipelago just off the mainland. The settlers were apparently authorized by the government of the city of Padua to establish a trading post in the area; they couldn’t have imagined that they were founding what would become one of the world’s most legendary nation states.

But the glittering city state was not built upon the islands themselves. Rather, long poles were thrust into the muddy earth, where they eventually petrified. These pillars support Venice’s piazzas and terraces above, furnishing her citizens with the illusion that they inhabit a floating city.

Doors open onto a canal. A common sight in Venice.

In the middle ages and through the high renaissance, those citizens enjoyed the privilege of residing in one of the great powers of the old world.

The Most Serene Republic of Venice (as it was called) became the seat of a maritime empire in the Adriatic whose power far exceeded its relatively small size. Venetian merchants made fortunes trading in salt, silk, spice, and myriad other precious goods; the wealth they accumulated is still evident today in the architectural and cultural wonders of the city they built.

Venice styled itself as a Republic, though we wouldn’t recognize it as such today. It was a democracy of sorts, but the only voters were the aristocrats, who elected one of their own to a life term as Doge, or Duke. (The Doge’s Palace remains one of Venice’s most recognizable landmarks today.)

This republic of oligarchs fell into decline when the Atlantic Ocean proved a more lucrative channel for trade, and it was finally dissolved by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1797.

A Sinking City

As you might expect, rising water levels have always been an issue for the city. Higher than usual tides have sometimes given us images of tourists wading through St. Mark’s Square, water up to their waists – and this has only become more common in recent years. The mean depth of the Venetian Lagoon is a mere 33 feet, so even comparatively modest fluctuations in the water level are very noticeable.

Over the last 1,000 years, scientists conclude that Venice’s coastline has risen by just over a foot. However, due to effects of global warming, they now project that it will rise by an additional 5 feet by the year 2100. This puts the city at risk, along with much of the rest of the low-lying Adriatic coastline.

Venice has been plagued by other problems as well.

The population of the islands which comprise the old city proper has declined to 55,000. The city is practically bankrupt and mired in corruption.

The digging of channels in the seabed to accommodate large ships has sucked excess seawater into the lagoon. That fast-moving water has led to more erratic tides which can erode the foundations of the city. (Remember: Venice is essentially held up by petrified stilts in the mud. If these are exposed due to uncommonly low tides, they weaken and decay.)

Finally, while gondolas remain iconic, motorized boats have become increasingly common. The wake they leave behind is chipping away at the foundations of the ancient domiciles along the canals, which run like capillaries through the city. Venice has also become an extremely popular destination for cruise ships – and who knows what untold damage they’re doing beneath the surface.

A Salvageable City?

In 2003, work commenced on a system called MOSE, which is intended to protect Venice from flooding – at least on a temporary basis. (The name is an Italian acronym, but it’s also meant to evoke Moses and his parting of the Red Sea.)

The idea is straightforward enough: hinged gates are installed into the seabed along the narrow inlets that allow water to pass from the Adriatic into the lagoon. If dangerously high water is expected, the gates can be raised – literally holding back the tide.

The execution, however, has not been straightforward at all.

MOSE was originally projected to cost €1.6 billion, with a completion deadline of 2011. Today, costs have run in excess of €5 billion, and it may not be operational until 2022. Furthermore, the underwater gates have suffered far more water corrosion and damage from fauna like mussels than previously anticipated. Even in a best case scenario, MOSE can protect Venice from surges over 10 feet, but it is apparently (somehow!) useless in preventing smaller, more commonplace floods.

The operation’s efficiency has also been undermined by corruption. Back in 2014, the Mayor of Venice, Girogio Orsoni, was arrested, along with 34 others, on corruption charges relating to MOSE. (Orsoni apparently accepted €20 million in illegal campaign donations from the consortium responsible for the faltering project.)

In any event, even if MOSE eventually exceeds expectations (which is unlikely), it can only protect Venice from temporary high tides. It would still be powerless to protect the ancient city from the depredations of motorized sea traffic, or the rising sea levels that result from the melting of the ice caps.

Unless we reverse the trend of global warming in the coming decades, Venice will be but one of many casualties. The once-bustling metropolis that was founded as a refuge will itself take refuge beneath the waves; the palaces and monuments to its great dreamers, the Marco Polos, the Vivaldis, will wither into a shadow of a memory, an Atlantis in the Adriatic.

One of the many canals that give the city its character.

How To Spend A Sunday In Chicago

The great city of Chicago has plenty to keep you busy for weeks at a time. So, if you are just stopping by on your way through town, you will want to make the most of your brief time in the Windy City. Here are our picks for how to spend a leisurely Sunday in the Midwest’s biggest city.

Sunday Morning

Chicago is a town that loves its brunch. French, Chinese, Mexican — nearly every cuisine you can imagine can be enjoyed in leisure on a Sunday morning.

Mindy’s Bakery

Your first option is sweet, with a hint of savory. Chef Mindy Segal of Mindy’s Bakery is a James Beard Award winning pastry chef. Start with an order of Mindy’s Doughnuts, and follow it with a savory southern grits skillet or latke benedict. Finish your morning with sweet caffeine. There are six different types of hot chocolate from which to choose, each topped with a homemade marshmallow.

Jam Restaurant

Jam Restaurant is in the city’s Logan Square neighborhood. It has been awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand for six straight years. That honor recognizes restaurants that provide tasty food at fair prices. Jam recently moved to a larger space, but you can still count on your favorites like Hot Chicken & Waffles and Wild Boar BLT.

Chicago Art Institute entrance and lion sculpture — Image: Chad Bontrager, Shutterstock

Sunday Afternoon

There are several ways you can spend your afternoon after getting your fill at brunch.

The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago welcomes you with its stately lions standing guard outside. The museum is one of the best in the country and boasts the works of masters including Van Gogh, Cézanne, Monet, Degas, and Renoir. In fact, it’s home to one of the largest Impressionist collections in the world. In addition to paintings, there are suits of armor, sculptures, pottery, photography, and textiles from around the world. The Art Institute’s collections are extensive, and you can easily lose yourself here. Before you realize it, hours will have passed, and you’ll wish you had more time before closing time. Guided gallery talks take place daily, but the times and topics change from day to day. The museum does charge admission, but it’s part of the city pass if you choose to get that.

Maxwell Street Market

One Chicago Sunday tradition is Maxwell Street Market. It’s basically a flea market in the South Loop on Desplaines where they sell everything from socks to scarfs. The market is known for its excellent Mexican and Latin street food and its polish sausage sandwiches. The most interesting thing about the market is its history. It’s basically the oldest flea market in America, started in the late 1880s by Jewish Immigrants. It grew to include a vast array of products, especially during its heyday in the 1920s. After World War II, the area also became known for the Blues musicians playing on the street alongside those selling their wares.

Oak Park

If it’s a beautiful day, a walk or bike ride around Oak Park is a perfect way to spend an afternoon. That town is home to the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright buildings in the world, including his home and studio. A walk or bike tour allows you to see a lot of Oak Park, which is just west of Chicago. During the tour, you’ll see more than 20 of Wright’s designs. The group leaves at 9:30 a.m. and lasts two hours. You can bring your own bike, but if you don’t have one, it’s included in the cost, which is about $50. The guided walking tour lasts three hours and costs $60. You’ll be walking less than a mile, but you’ll see about 10 of his designs. It’s a good idea to make a reservation for either tour.

Untouchable Tours

A fun afternoon activity with a bit of a seedy element, takes you back to 1920s Chicago when gangsters ruled the city. The ‘boys” at Untouchable Tours will show you the old stomping grounds of Capone, Moran, and Dillinger. You’ll see parts of Chicago you otherwise wouldn’t, and see the history of the city through the eyes of its villains. The guides have fantastic names like ‘Shoulders’ and ‘Slippery Sloop’, and they make it worth your while. They even dress the part! It costs just under $40 per person, and you do need to make reservations. Keep in mind: while they won’t break your knees if you cancel, you also won’t get your money back. No refunds once you’re booked.

Sunday Evening

Chicago-Style Pizza

End your day with the pizza for which Chicago is famous — deep dish. Uno Pizzeria lays claim to inventing the pizza style, which features tall crust and sauce on top. If you’ve never tried it, don’t worry, there’s plenty of cheese below that sauce. Sample a slice at Uno’s original location at Ohio and Wabash.

In addition to Uno, Gino’s, Giordano’s, and Lou Malnati’s have been pleasing locals and guests for decades with multiple locations downtown. The pizzas take a while to bake, but many joints allow you to order before being seated so that it bakes while you wait. One piece can be a meal, and you don’t even want to know the calorie count. Surely you walked enough in the Windy City to warrant a slice or two! If you do leave wanting more, the good news is all of these places will ship a pie right to your door.

Skydeck Chicago

Willis Tower

If you have a few minutes left in the evening, and you happened to buy a city pass, you might as well use it to travel to the top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Skydeck Chicago is located on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower. You probably know it better by its former name, Sears Tower.

The Ledge is the star of the show when you get to the top. The experience allows you to step onto an inch and a half of glass to see straight down! While that may not seem very thick, The Ledge’s glass boxes can hold up to 10,000 pounds. If stepping out onto a sheet of glass more than 1,300 feet in the air isn’t for you, you can still enjoy seeing four states from the observation deck: Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. It’s a perfect way to end your day, bidding the Windy City and its neighbors adieu.