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Travel better, your extraordinary vacation begins here.

No matter where in the world you want to go, we can help get you there. Our experienced agents will take the time to answer your questions and listen to your ideas, before making expert recommendations that fit your budget. We believe extraordinary vacations begin with careful planning, that's why we are devoted to ensuring our clients always have the best possible experience—both before they leave and while they're away.

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Gift a tree - a tree planted on your behalf in zambales (aetas) and cared for 3 years, enjoy learning about impact with mad courses.

MAD COURSES is our online education platform. At the root of effective action is meaningful connection and a deep understanding of various local contexts. We enable students and professionals to explore beyond what they already know by introducing them to social innovators, partner community members, and grassroots movers and shakers who are trying to some of the most complex issues in the world today. Start your digital adventure today.

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MAD Travel supports its communities despite the decrease in travel due to COVID-19 by offering their products online. With necessary travel restrictions, lock downs and decreased vacations, our local farmers, fishermen and small businesses are economically, the hardest hit. We work with various communities to connect their products to your doorstep. MAD hopes to help keep livelihoods going and incubate community based enterprises.

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36 9th St S

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Thank you Cynthia Collison, Mad Travel, she was very friendly, helpful, and efficient! I messaged to book a Birthday cruise for my Husband. Almost immediately received a call asking for our preferences. Our trip was planned flawlessly! Highly recommend! So glad we drove by and remembered the name to give them a call for this request. We will be back:-)

Julie at Mad Travel is marvelous. Not only did she coordinate my coast to coast travel between two small airports and with my dog reserved in cabin but managed at last moment get my car rental upgraded from economy to SUV for less money simply because she took the time to see if a better deal had become available. Julie also arranged on my next CA/FL trip for my Buffalo friend to meet me at Ft Lauderdale airport within 40 minutes of each other. Neither of us are savvy travel coordinators with time zones, nor do we want to be, so Julie's quick bookings are so appreciated. Plus, who knows, maybe she will find us an even better deal on car rental again! Julie is personable, professional and keeps herself available to you and has lots of patience with my requests to arrive before dark, etc., and explores all possibilities - very resourceful. I dropped into Mad Travel when in Naples just to say hello and meet the person who made my trips a lot easier on me. Julie just as warm in person ... I had used Mad Travel a couple times in the past when I lived in Naples and was very pleased then too.

Called to get info on a travel request. Gave my info, my request and was told they would investigate and get back to me. No one got back to me. Called again and was told they were waiting to hear back from an email request. Just a little more time please. Waiting. Waiting. Waiting. Nothing. Don't bother w this group.

This review is based on the integrity of the business as a whole. I had a poor experience with an outside sales rep, Nikki Reynolds that was 100% rectified by the owner in an A+ manner My sister-in-law was originally making travel arrangements with Nikki to handle a group block for her upcoming wedding in Mexico, but due to her being slow with information and having a higher than expected deposit, my sister-in-law informed her that she was taking her business elsewhere. Being unaware of this, I contacted Nikki to make our travel arrangements. Nikki made no mention of basically being fired by my sister-in-law and took my deposit. After I realized what had happened, I was refunded all but a $50 cancellation fee. Nikki was incredibly rude when I insisted that I should not be charged a cancellation fee after she was not forthcoming with me. I contacted Lee McCarthy, the owner of Mad Travel, who was incredibly helpful and apologetic about his employee's behavior. He assured me this is not her typical behavior and within a few days, I received a $50 check from him. Companies unfortunately get a bad rap for individual employees having bad days, which is unfair. I would definitely do business with Mad Travel in the future knowing the high level of integrity they have.

Working with Lee on booking a cruise for the family now over Thanksgiving. He has been extremely helpful and very quick to respond. Instead of me spending hours looking into this trip he has done all the work for me, very happy with his service!

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Mad About Traveling

Lee and Lisa McCarthy of Mad Travel make their clients' wildest travel dreams come true at their Naples agency

Lisa McCarthy and her husband Lee are dog-loving outdoors enthusiasts who’ve owned and operated Mad Travel in Naples since 1994, when they bought it from the original founders. Like many couples who work together, they’ve figured out their groove: Lee is on the front lines with clients while Lisa handles the back-office stuff, and together they manage a team of selling agents.

Lisa landed in Naples in 1985, when she came to check out her parents’ new digs on Marco Island. Lee hails from Michigan and moved to Southwest Florida to be in the hospitality business. After they met, they realized they were each other’s ideal travel buddy and life partner. “Our first big trip together was to Africa,” Lisa recalls. “We had the incredible opportunity to go on a safari.”  

Thanks to COVID-19, much of the McCarthys’ work throughout 2020 and into 2021 involved cancelling and rebooking clients’ trips. Now, Lisa is happy to report, “We have interest in future travel. People see value in what we do, and they wouldn’t want to navigate it themselves.”

Recent clients are seeking domestic destinations with international vibes. Being wonderful researchers with long-established connections to travel suppliers, the McCarthys can send their clients “places in the U.S. they’ve never been to before,” Lisa notes. “We know where to go and we have people on the ground in those places to make recommendations and give personal service, so our travelers are always taken care of,” she adds.  

Although summer travel to Europe looks iffy, since some countries are still in and out of lockdowns, Lisa remains optimistic. “A year from now, European travel is going to explode from pent-up demand,” she says. “People are looking forward to seeing something different and getting out there again.” In the meantime, she’s excited about the future of her agency and is bringing in new people to keep up with demand.

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How MAD Travel is tackling tourism in the time of COVID-19

Multimedia reporter.

Mariel Alison L. Aguinaldo

T ravel is often hailed as the ultimate cathartic experience. Whether we see it on the silver screen or read it between the pages of a book, we’ve heard some tale of an individual finding themselves and their purpose by embarking on a journey. But for some, this is more than just a tall fantasy. Just ask Thomas Graham and Rafael Dionisio.

Travel is universally held as the ultimate cathartic experience. Across films and books, we find countless examples of journeys that begin and end with characters exploring foreign worlds and, in so doing, find themselves. For avid travelers Thomas Graham and Rafael Dionisio, that passion for exploration paved the way to a shared adventure in the form of a startup, MAD Travel. And, fittingly, that journey began when they happened to meet on a trip.

Graham, a journalist from the United Kingdom, and Dionisio, an entrepreneur in the tourism industry, first crossed paths in 2013 on a volunteering trip for Gawad Kalinga. Dionisio had been setting up hostels across various provinces in the Philippines, but wanted to do something more meaningful. That piqued Graham’s interest.

“We thought, ‘Why not pull together our expertise?’,” Graham said. “Mine was really in storytelling and giving the outsider’s perspective on how much we have to learn from these amazing communities that we were, at the time, volunteering for. [Dionisio] obviously brought more local expertise and the community development side of what we do.”

And so Make a Difference (MAD) Travel was born.

Setting direction

Graham and Dionisio started Make a Difference Travel as a tourism platform offering tours to local destinations such as Zambales, Bataan, and Rizal.They work with marginalized communities, such as the Aetas in Yangil Village, in creating authentic experiences– from storytelling with the tribe to learning their traditional music and dances.

The firm takes a clear stance on what they mean by authentic. They take extra efforts to ensure the worlds their travelers experience aren’t just “different”, but true to the experiences of the communities they meet.

“Everything we do is aligned with their own values and vision for their community. We never dictate… ‘You should always dress in your Aeta wear because it looks more authentic for photos.’” said Romina Naňagas, communications manager. “We consult our partners and they have the right [to] say no.”

They also incorporate long-term initiatives within the tours that help foster inclusivity and sustainability among their partner communities, such as growing farms and forests in their Zambales and Bataan programs. “This is all in the backdrop of massive deforestation in the country… and the massive exclusion of countryside communities from better education, localized racism against them, [and lack of] access to water or electricity,” said Dionisio.

If it sounds like an ambitious set of goals for a tourism startup to tackle, that’s because it is. But it’s precisely the transformative role that Graham and Dionisio see travel playing in people’s lives that they feel confident in taking them on. Through MAD Travel, the two believe they can exponentially grow their advocacies through the travelers that join their programs.

Chef Chele Gonzalez, known for his acclaimed restaurants such as Gallery by Chele, started sourcing ingredients directly from some of MAD Travel’s partners. Artist Issa Barte founded Fund a Forest, a reforestation effort for Philippine forests, after being inspired by the tour’s reforestation activities. Even some members of MAD Travel’s team were former tourists, including Naňagas, who left the advertising industry to help the company.

“There are so many things that we know theoretically, and yet we don’t [understand them] until we know it on an experiential level,” said Graham. “Don’t just read about the communities, or hear a nice speech, or donate some money, but come be part of it.”

Off the beaten track

But, as with nearly every business in the tourism industry, the current COVID-19 crisis saw many of MAD Travels’ projects come to a grinding halt. Faced with the responsibility of sustaining not just their team but also their partner communities, MAD Travel has had to pivot their services—all while keeping them aligned with their vision.

Over the past few weeks, they launched a number of new programs based on the advocacies towards caring for local communities in their network. These include Feed the Farmers Today, Fund Tomorrow’s Forest , a global crowdfunding project where each purchase of a tree pays for an Aeta’s labor of planting it.

There’s also MAD Market , an online delivery service that sources produce directly from farmers and communities in areas like Benguet and Davao. They’re group is even offering an e-learning program called MAD Courses which offers training into topics such as sustainability and social enterprise.

“We identified some time ago that… we’re a platform that connects people,” said Graham. “When you look at it more broadly like that… then you see that even when tourism has dried up and we all remain pretty slow for let’s say the next six months at least, we’re now looking in a broader sense at our mission. We still believe that there’s something very special in our communities and our community partners.”

While these may not be the original services that MAD Travel planned out, the team is confident that they’re delivering on their promise of affecting change through authentic experiences—albeit through a different kind of experience.

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• North Carolina

North Carolina's Biggest City Is Home to the Largest Human-made Whitewater River

Here’s how to plan a trip to Charlotte, the largest city in North Carolina.

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Best shopping, best time to visit, neighborhoods to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

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If you regularly travel the East Coast, there’s a good chance you’ve had a layover or two in Charlotte. To understand the vibrance and dynamic nature of North Carolina’s most populous city, though, you’ll need to make your way out of the airport terminals and into the neighborhoods that comprise the bustling metropolis and surrounding areas.

“Charlotte has many different cultures, and their influence can be seen and experienced throughout the city,” explains Andres Kaifer, the executive chef and owner of Customshop . From its robust culinary scene — it regularly boasts James Beard Award nominees — to its art galleries, esteemed museums, and appreciation of green spaces and public parks, the Queen City repeatedly proves its role as a financial center is just part of its larger narrative. Yes, Bank of America’s headquarters are located in Uptown Charlotte, but the city is also the home of NASCAR , the Carolina Panthers, and the Charlotte Hornets. As Ashley Creft, co-founder of Charlotte Black-Owned (@ cltblackowned ), shares, Charlotte is “very diverse, and there are lots of opportunities to connect with locally-owned and BIPOC-owned businesses in the city,” many of which you’ll discover below. 

Scroll on to read Travel + Leisure ’s guide to Charlotte, North Carolina.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Book a five-star stay at The Ritz Carlton, Charlotte, which recently completed a multimillion-dollar renovation.
• Root for the Carolina Panthers, the Charlotte Hornets, Charlotte FC, or the Charlotte Knights while on their home turf. 
• Take a tasting tour of some of Charlotte’s best breweries — The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, Divine Barrel Brewing, and Resident Culture Brewing among them. 
• Fill up on Southern fare at Jimmy Pearls. 
• Plan your trip in the spring or fall to experience Charlotte’s best weather (and fewer crowds).

The Ritz Carlton, Charlotte

The Ritz Carlton, Charlotte comes recommended by Kaifer, who credits its “easy accessibility to the light rail” and newly renovated wellness amenities as top reasons to book a stay. With a pool, steam room, hot tub, and sauna, the Uptown hotel’s spa is the perfect place to relax after a travel day — or before a big night out in Charlotte. 

The Ivey's Hotel

Another Uptown favorite, The Ivey’s Hotel has 47 rooms decorated to give off a “Parisian-style elegance with modern luxury” vibe. In its past life, the building functioned as The Ivey's Department Store (which opened in 1924). Today, it offers guests a range of comfortable rooms and amenities, including a 1,500-square-foot fitness center, the cozy Library Lounge, and a daily complimentary wine social.

The Ballantyne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Charlotte

Courtesy of The Ballantyne

As the name suggests, The Ballantyne, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Charlotte is located in the upscale Ballantyne neighborhood, 20 minutes south of Uptown. Ideal for travelers who want to be away from the city center (or closer to The Amp Ballantyne ), it’s the type of hotel where you’re more than happy to spend time relaxing on the property — there’s even an outdoor pool, indoor pool, and spa.

Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte, Autograph Collection

“For mainstream hotel folks, I think the Grand Bohemian has the most character,” says Corri Smith, owner of Black Wednesday . She shares that its “stellar location in Uptown” is also a plus, but the inside of the property is unexpectedly artistic and bohemian, a contrast from the more buttoned-up look of the neighborhood. 

Best Things to Do 

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Raft the largest human-made whitewater river in the world.

If everyone in your party is eight years old and above, you can book a guided whitewater rafting experience at the U.S. National Whitewater Center . “The Whitewater Center is incredibly unique and special… [and] it has a wild amount of activities and events,” says Smith — and that includes things to do on dry land. “My favorite things are the Thursday night live music shows ( River Jam ) as well as free outdoor yoga.” According to Kaifer, there’s also the option to “enjoy a nice hike through one of their many trails.”

Explore Charlotte’s art scene.

“Art has become a more honored part of our culture,” says Smith, who recommends checking out a number of local Charlotte artists, including Grace Stott , Kathryn Godwin , Saloan Dunlap , Davita Galloway , and Matt Moore (take a look at their Instagrams or websites to see where their work is on display). Alternatively, travelers can add several of the city’s art museums and galleries to their list;  The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art , the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture , and the Mint Museum are some of the most popular. “ Goodyear Arts is a modern art gallery with a residency program that supports under-the-radar artists,” adds Smith. 

Sip on some local brews at any one of Charlotte’s numerous breweries. 

Like many major U.S. cities, Charlotte has an ever-growing craft beer scene; in fact, the Queen City has more than four dozen breweries to choose from. Once you’ve chosen your designated driver — or booked with City Brew Tours , Trolley Pub Charlotte , or Brew Ha-Ha Tours — visit some of the breweries that catch your eye. Don't know where to start? Stop by Sycamore Brewing , The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery , Birdsong Brewing Co. , Divine Barrel Brewing , and Resident Culture Brewing .

Cheer on Charlotte’s professional sports teams.

When it comes to athletics, Charlotte does it big. Depending on the exact time of year (and how far ahead you’re planning your trip), you might be able to catch a Charlotte Knights baseball game at Truist Field, watch the Carolina Panthers or Charlotte FC play at the Bank of America Stadium, or see the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center.

Peter Taylor/Restaurant Constance

Restaurant Constance

To narrow down Charlotte’s restaurants to just a handful is tough, but a few specific ones stood out to the Charlotteans we spoke with. Restaurant Constance was one of the first picks from Kaifer: “Chef Sam Diminich does an incredible job of featuring ingredients from local farms and making unique, delicious, and honest food,” he explains. 

Jimmy Pearls

Creft has Jimmy Pearls , the only Charlotte restaurant to receive a nomination in the 2024 James Beard Awards, on her list. Chefs Daryl Cooper and Oscar Johnson are the masterminds behind Jimmy Peals, which is described as an “ode to Virginia soul.” Expect menu items like crispy chicken gizzards, fish sandwiches, and fried shrimp — all made, according to the restaurant, to honor “Virginia’s rich history of Black food.”

Uptown Yolk

Not all meals need to be fancy affairs, especially if you’re in the mood for something casual (but equally tasty). For a “delicious” breakfast, Creft suggests Uptown Yolk . It has all of the classics — scrambled eggs, omelets, and pancakes — as well as some “Yolk Way” favorites, like shrimp and grits with smoked gouda and jerk shrimp and the Belgian waffle with chicken wings.

Menya Daruma

“ Menya [Daruma] is some of the most underrated food in the city, in my opinion,” says Kaifer. “The entire menu is delicious, and they have the best fried chicken sandwich in the city.” If the aforementioned Tori Katsu Sando doesn’t call your name, there’s also the ramen and abura soba (or soup-less ramen) dishes.

Customshop 

Travelers who like to pair a nice atmosphere with their meal should make a reservation at Customshop , a “chef-driven restaurant” in Midtown. “They recently changed ownership and though the chef-owner, Andres Kaifer, has created a giant impact and switched some things up (for the better), it remains one of the city's most beloved restaurants,” says Smith. “It's a spot where you can rely on the consistency of a delicious, creative, and special meal... It's [also] cozy and romantic and feels like a break from reality.”

Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Travelers with an affinity for high-end designer clothes may already know of Capitol , the legendary luxury boutique founded by Laura Vinroot Poole, as well as its sibling property, Poole Shop . The SouthPark stores are known for their expertly curated inventories — expect to see names such as Saint Laurent, Ulla Johnson, Zimmermann, and Carolina Herrera among the racks. 

Along with several large shopping complexes —  SouthPark Mall , Atherton Mill and Market , and Phillips Place — Charlotte has a variety of smaller shops, many of which are frequented by Creft and Smith. “I love stopping by 704 Shop to pick up Charlotte paraphernalia and [The] Brown Sugar Collab to shop products by BIPOC women suppliers,” says Creft. To add to your plant collection, head to Oakdale Greenhouses . “The owner, Bill, is a plant expert and is on-call for plant emergencies and education or tips. It's a family-run shop that is super welcoming,” says Smith. She also adds she regularly visits “ The Jungle [for] gifts and home decor, Boris and Natasha [for] clothing and accessories, and Paper Skyscraper [for] gifts.” 

For a slightly different shopping experience, keep an eye out for pop-ups. “I also do a lot of shopping during pop-up events which are often held at Camp North End or other industrial venues or warehouses,” says Smith. “ VTGCLT happens a few times a year and is a cool way to learn about new and fresh vendors and to scoop up unique antiques/pieces.”

JillLang/Getty Images

“Spring and fall are the prettiest seasons in Charlotte,” says Kaifer, who shares that the weather this time of year is “almost always perfect.” Smith agrees, noting that Charlotte has a “very short spring,” but travelers should aim to visit in April, October, or early November. The shoulder seasons also give way to quite a few festivals and sporting events. In the spring, mark your calendar for the Wells Fargo Championship , Charlotte Wine and Food Week , and the Coca-Cola 600 . Autumn festivities include the Charlotte International Arts Festival , Charlotte Craft Beer Week , and the Festival in the Park . 

Skyhobo/Getty Images

If you’re searching for the city center, or the “downtown,” you’ll need to make your way to Uptown Charlotte. Here, you’ll find the central business district, as well as a plethora of museums and sporting areas. The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture, and the Mint Museum are all located in the neighborhood, as are the Bank of America Stadium, the Spectrum Center, and Truist Field. Uptown Charlotte is also broken down into four wards — within the Second Ward, you’ll find the area that was once known as Brooklyn , which Creft recommends for travelers looking “to learn more about the history of the predominantly Black community that thrived there many years ago.”

Smith adds NoDa, short for North Davidson, to her list of must-experience Charlotte neighborhoods. The city’s arts and entertainment district, NoDa has a wide range of sights and activities to keep you busy. Embark on a self-guided street art tour to see the area’s impressive murals, pop in and out of vintage shops, or check the schedules at Neighborhood Theatre or The Evening Muse to see if any live performances strike your fancy. 

Plaza Midwood

Both Kaifer and Smith share their affinity for Plaza Midwood. Similarly to the NoDa neighborhood, Kaifer says it has a “great variety of retail and great restaurants, and [it’s] also nice to walk around in.” The pedestrian-friendly area is populated with historic homes, consignment shops, boutiques, breweries, and Veterans Park , where you can explore 19 acres of trails, green space, and more. 

Camp North End

Camp North End is technically billed as a “creative hub” versus a full neighborhood, but the 76-acre campus — which once served as Charlotte’s first Ford Motor Company factory — is filled with interesting tenants with stories to tell. “There is a local coffee and [natural] wines shop ( Hex ), a record store ( Hardy Boys Records ), a dairy-free ice cream shop ( Seemingly Overzealous ), a salon ( Explicit ), artist studios, shops , a charcuterie bar , and more,” says Smith. 

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is one of the busiest airports in the country. An American Airlines hub, it’s also served by seven other major airlines — including Delta, Southwest, JetBlue, and United — and offers flights to 180 destinations around the world. Uber or Lyft are readily available at the airport, but travelers can also opt to use the CATS (Charlotte Area Transit System) Sprinter Service . The bus provides rides (which take anywhere from 25 to 35 minutes) between CLT and Uptown Charlotte, and one-way tickets cost $2.20. 

espiegle/Getty Images

Charlotte is the largest city in North Carolina, and a car is necessary if you’re going to explore beyond Uptown. Still, there are a few other ways to get around the city center. The LYNX Blue Line light rail line serves 26 stations, and its routes span over 20 miles. One-way, one-day, seven-day, and round-trip tickets can be purchased through the self-service ticket vending machines at the stations or via the CATS-Pass app . If you prefer to tour the city on two wheels, hop on a Charlotte Joy Rides e-bike. A Flash Pass grants you a 30-minute membership for $5, and a $30 Joy Pass gives you bike access for 24 hours. 

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U.S. retiree in Mexico: I could've earned 4 months' rent with an eclipse side hustle—here's why I didn't

The resort town of Mazatlán, Mexico — where I lived from 2006 until last month — is one of the best spots to witness the total solar eclipse on April 8. Hordes of people are traveling there to experience the event.

There was a 1,000% surge in searches for Airbnb listings in North American cities along the path of totality compared to the same period last year, according to a recent report from the rental marketplace. Mazatlán was the second most popular city among them, after Austin, Texas, and one of the top trending international destinations for U.S. travelers.

Tourism officials in the state of Sinaloa expect 120,000 visitors, according to local news , and Mazatlán's hundreds of hotels are almost fully booked for the event. I've seen Craigslist and local Facebook pages glutted with rooms, apartments, condos, and homes for rent. 

But I'll be far from Mazatlán during this celestial phenomenon, and I decided not to rent out my apartment for an astronomical amount of money. Here's why.

A chance to make $300 a night for a week

Rumors started circulating roughly three years ago about people renting their places for inflated prices during the eclipse week. I heard about bookings made and paid for in full, sight unseen, and rentals going for far above their normal prices.

One local friend's family charged up to four times the regular rates for their 10 vacation rental condos for the eclipse week. 

My friends Eric and Jenna Streit, who moved to Mazatlán from Los Angeles during Covid with their son, have two rental units on their property in Centro Historico that usually rent for $40 - $50 a night on Airbnb. They told me they were offered $400 a night for the eclipse week. But since they have family members coming for the event, Eric said, "we won't be cashing in." 

Another friend who works for a real estate management company tossed out the idea that I could stay with her that week and rent out my two-bedroom apartment for $300 a night. Four to seven days at that rate would mean a total of $1,200 - $2,100 — enough to pay my rent for two to four months.

I'd be lying if I said I didn't consider it. 

The resort town of Mazatlán is often party central

Mazatlán is known for regularly hosting big events that draw thousands of visitors.

Its Carnaval includes a week of parades, concerts, and fireworks. International Motorcycle Week draws more than 10,000 motorcycle enthusiasts . And holidays like Día de Los Muertos and Easter week (Spring Break) bring tens or hundreds of thousands of visitors.  

You'd think I'd have gotten used to these swells of tourists, and the traffic, noise and congestion that come with them. But over time, it's become increasingly irritating to have my life revolve around the latest traffic patterns, street closures, and crowds in town for the next big event. 

Whatever its celestial significance, the eclipse felt like just one more thing to deal with. 

Why I opted out, though 'I could certainly use the extra money'

As the eclipse got closer, I was already plotting the next chapter of my life , a plan that didn't include Mazatlán and its big-city energy. By February, I'd decided to move about seven hours away, to the small lakeside town of San Antonio Tlayacapan near Guadalajara.  

My best friend wanted to take over my apartment and buy my furniture and appliances, and the landlord was open to making the switch before my lease was up. The house I'd found to rent had a flexible move-in date.  

The timing was up to me. I could easily have kept my place long enough to cash in on the eclipse and walked away with some pretty full pockets. So why didn't I? 

Like anyone else, I could certainly use the extra money. (Even as I write this, I feel a pang of regret.) But money has never been a big motivator for me. Peace of mind and ease of life matter more. That's part of why I moved to Mexico in the first place .

I knew I wanted to move before the eclipse. When the city is so full of tourists, there are often water shortages, sewage and garbage issues that can go on for days, and horrendous traffic. I didn't want to be on call for renters facing those likely problems. 

I was focused on moving to another state — a huge endeavor that had me busy closing and opening utility accounts, getting my car and cats ready for the long drive, and letting go emotionally of the place I'd called home for so long. 

I decided the extra income wasn't worth the aggravation during an already stressful time.

I packed what I was taking, sold what I wasn't, and left for my new home on March 12. Since then, I've watched online and heard from friends that Mazatlán, the "Pearl of the Pacific," has grown predictably more chaotic as multitudes of visitors begin to arrive. 

Eclipse viewers and locals alike will have to deal with all that — but I won't. I'm happily setting up my new home, grateful to be in a setting that's rural, quiet, and peaceful.

Janet Blaser  is a writer who has lived in Mexico since 2006. A former journalist in California, her work now focuses on expat living. Janet's first book,  "Why We Left: An Anthology of American Women Expats"  is an Amazon bestseller. Follow Janet on  Instagram  and  Facebook .

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Hawks vs Mavericks: Game Preview, Injury Report, Projected Starting Lineups

• Author: Jackson Caudell

In this story:

After getting a closer-than-expected win over the Detroit Pistons, the Atlanta Hawks are going to see a big upgrade in competition tonight when they travel to Dallas to take on the red-hot Mavericks. 

The Hawks also come into this game playing well, even if last night was not the dominating effort that most expected. Atlanta has won six of their last seven games, they clinched their spot in the Play-In Tournament for the third straight year, and Atlanta is now tied with the Chicago Bulls for the No. 9 spot in the Eastern Conference Standings. 

Tonight is going to be one of the tougher challenges the Hawks have faced. Atlanta lost their earlier game in the year to Dallas, allowing Luka Doncic to score 73 points and win the game in Atlanta. Dallas won that game without star guard Kyrie Irving and they did not have their trade deadline acquisitions P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford. The Mavs have been one of the league's best teams since the trade deadline and those guys are a big reason why. Luka is also playing at an MVP level and making his case for the award. 

Note: Keep an eye on the Hawks injury report today. I don't know if anyone will be added to the injury report, but the Hawks are on a back-to-back and there could be a surprise addition today. 

This promises to be one of the toughest games for the Hawks for the rest of the season. Let's preview how the two teams match up. 

Game Preview

The Hawks have been rolling along as of late and have been getting healthier. Dejounte Murray gets a lot of the attention for the Hawks with Trae Young out, but the supporting cast around him has stepped up over the past few games. Murray had a kind of quiet 24-point game last night vs Detroit, but he has been playing excellent over the past couple of weeks and earned the Eastern Conference Player of The Week this week. 

Bogdan Bogdanovic did not play very well last night in terms of shooting, but he has been one of the Hawks's best players all season and can get hot from three quickly. He had 38 points on Saturday vs the Bucks and shot the ball well in a win on Monday vs the Bulls. 

After two rough shooting games vs the Bucks and the Bulls, De'Andre Hunter had one of his most efficient nights shooting the ball last night against the Pistons. Hunter was 11-16 from the field and 3-6 from three, scoring 26 points. Hunter did not play in the last matchup between these teams and he will likely be one of the players guarding Doncic tonight. 

Jalen Johnson had one of his best nights as a pro last night against the Pistons and he was able to record his first career triple-double. Johnson had 28 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists, shooting 10-14 from the field. Johnson will also likely get a chance at guarding Doncic tonight. 

Clint Capela has been playing excellent basketball as of late and is going against a team that is below-average in rebounding. Capela has been a double-double machine, as well as playing pretty solid defense. 

The Hawks bench rotation will probably look similar to what it did last night. Kobe Bufkin, Garrison Matthews, Bruno Fernando, and Vit Krejci will all see playing time, but they will probably need to contribute more than they did last night. Bufkin and Matthews each had nine points, but Krejci and Fernando did not have their best game. Last night was probably the best game from Bufkin during his rookie season. 

The Hawks come into this game 5th in PPG, 19th in field goal percentage, 7th in three-point attempts, 14th in three-point percentage, 7th in free-throw attempts, 2nd in offensive rebounding, and 15th in turnovers. Per Cleaning the Glass, Atlanta is 9th in points per 100 possessions, 16th in effective field goal percentage, 10th in turnover percentage, 5th in offensive rebounding percentage, and 11th in free throw rate.

The Mavericks have improved as a defense since acquiring these guys, but they are still below average overall. Dallas is 20th in PPG allowed, 20th in field goal percentage allowed, and 19th in three-point percentage allowed. Per Cleaning the Glass, Dallas is 18th in points allowed per 100 possessions and 18th in effective field goal percentage allowed. 

The Maverick's offense though is one of the league's best and that is no surprise when you have Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Doncic leads the league with 33.9 PPG and is third in assists, averaging 9.8 per game. 

The Mavericks come into this game 6th in PPG, 11th in field goal percentage, 2nd in three-point attempts, 11th in three-point percentage, 11th in free throw attempts, 23rd in offensive rebounding, and 7th in turnovers. Per Cleaning the Glass, the Mavericks are 6th in points per 100 possessions, 5th in effective field goal percentage, 6th in turnover percentage, 26th in offensive rebounding percentage, and 16th in free throw rate. 

The Hawks's defense has played better over the past two weeks, but it is still not one of the league's better units. Atlanta is 27th in PPG allowed, field goal percentage allowed, and three-point percentage allowed. Per Cleaning the Glass, Atlanta is 26th in points allowed per 100 possessions and 28th in effective field goal percentage allowed. 

Injury Report

The Hawks have yet to release their injury report so keep an eye out for when it is released. 

Josh Green and Derrick Lively are out tonight for Dallas. 

Viewing and Betting information

Tip-off time: 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time

Location: American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX

Where to Watch: NBA League Pass, Bally Sports Southeast,

Spread and Over/Under: The Hawks will be underdogs on the road tonight, as they are currently 11.5 point underdogs according to the latest odds from the Ceasars Sportsbook and the over/under is set at 230.5.

Projected Starting Lineups

G- Bogdan Bogdanovic

G- Dejounte Murray

F- Jalen Johnson

F- De'Andre Hunter

C- Clint Capela

G- Luka Doncic

G- Kyrie Irving

F- Derrick Jones Jr

F- P.J. Washington

C-Daniel Gafford 

Latest Hawks News

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Map: 4.8-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes New Jersey

By William B. Davis ,  Madison Dong ,  Judson Jones ,  John Keefe ,  Bea Malsky and Lazaro Gamio

Shake intensity

A light, 4.8-magnitude earthquake struck in New Jersey on Friday, according to the United States Geological Survey. The quake was felt across the New York City metropolitan area, and from Philadelphia to Boston.

The temblor happened at 10:23 a.m. Eastern about 4 miles north of Whitehouse Station, N.J., data from the agency shows.

As seismologists review available data, they may revise the earthquake's reported magnitude. Additional information collected about the earthquake may also prompt U.S.G.S. scientists to update the shake-severity map.

Aftershocks in the region

At 5:59 p.m. Eastern on Friday, a light aftershock with a magnitude of 3.8 struck near Gladstone, New Jersey, according to U.S.G.S. (The agency initially gave the quake a preliminary magnitude of 4.0.)

An aftershock is usually a smaller earthquake that follows a larger one in the same general area. Aftershocks are typically minor adjustments along the portion of a fault that slipped at the time of the initial earthquake.

Quakes and aftershocks within 100 miles

Aftershocks can occur days, weeks or even years after the first earthquake. These events can be of equal or larger magnitude to the initial earthquake, and they can continue to affect already damaged locations.

How this quake compares

The U.S.G.S. has logged 188 earthquakes with a magnitude of 2.5 or greater within a 250-mile radius of New York City since 1957. In that timeframe, only seven have had a magnitude at or above 4.5. Today’s quake had the third-highest magnitude in the available data.

Today’s earthquake

Magnitude 4.8

250-mile radius

from New York City

Source: U. S.G.S.

By Lazaro Gamio

Source: United States Geological Survey | Notes: Shaking categories are based on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale. When aftershock data is available, the corresponding maps and charts include earthquakes within 100 miles and seven days of the initial quake. All times above are Eastern. Shake data is as of Friday, April 5 at 10:44 a.m. Eastern. Aftershocks data is as of Monday, April 8 at 12:37 a.m. Eastern.

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Solar eclipse in Michigan: What will 99% look like?

Should you travel to somewhere within the path of totality.

Kayla Clarke , Senior Web Producer

There are several places around Metro Detroit where you can see next week’s solar eclipse at 99% totality, but that’s still not going to be enough.

On Monday, April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will cross North America and all of Michigan will at least get to see a partial eclipse.

This is the last solar eclipse visible in the Contiguous United States until 2044. The path of totality is the area where people will be able to see the Moon completely cover the Sun. It’s about 100 miles wide.

The only place in Michigan located within the path of totality is Luna Pier in Monroe County. It’s right on the edge of the path of totality, so the total solar eclipse will only last 19 seconds there. In comparison, totality will last three minutes and 49 seconds in Cleveland, Ohio.

Luna Pier mayor Jim Gardner told Local 4′s Victor Williams said the town is not built to handle thousands of visitors. Gardner said the main bridge into the city was demolished last year and won’t be open again until later this summer. That means getting in and out of town will be a challenge. Gardner is urging people to go to Toledo, Ohio instead . The duration of totality will last one minute and 30 seconds in Toledo.

What if you’re somewhere, like Monroe, Michigan, where there will be 99.9% totality? Isn’t that good enough? Scientists say no, it’s not good enough and that the difference between 99.9% and 100% is basically day and night.

Places in the path of totality will see the sky become dark, as if it were dawn or dusk. People who only experience a partial solar eclipse will see the sky appear slightly darker than it was before, depending on their location.

Why isn’t 99.9% good enough?

Dr. Angela Speck with UTSA & AAS said that even seeing a solar eclipse at 99.9% totality is just not enough.

The Sun has an atmosphere known as the corona. It is always there, but because the Sun is so bright we can’t see it. On its own, the corona is about as bright as the full Moon. Even at 99.9% totality during a solar eclipse, the Sun gives off too much light for viewers to be able to really experience the corona.

“As the Sun is progressively blocked out, we start out having our pupils dilate, so we do not perceive a chance in darkness. About 1 hour into the partial eclipse, we start to notice the light change and it is about as dark as shade at midday. By about 70 minutes into the eclipse the sky is only as dark as an overcast day. In the next couple of minutes, we drop to 99% eclipses, 1% brightness, and then quickly to 1/1000 brightness. The drop from 99% to 100% happens in about 1 minute, much faster than sunset to nighttime. However, if you are outside the path of totality (even at 99.9% partial eclipse), it will NOT get dark.” Dr. Angela Speck (UTSA)

Speck said that at 99.9%, there will be little to no temperature and wind changes, little to no behavior changes, little to no shadow bands. Speck said that you need to be within the path of totality at 100% to experience any dramatic brightness changes, Baily’s beads, diamond ring effects, chromosphere and prominences, corona, sunset colors around the horizon, and bright stars and planets.

To get the full experience, scientist encourage people to travel somewhere within the path of totality.

There is an interactive map put out by NASA that lets people put in their zip code to see how much eclipse coverage they can expect there, and what time the eclipse will be at its peak.

It’s important to know that even at 99% coverage, there is still enough sunlight to hurt your eyes during an eclipse. So you’ll want to make sure you have eclipse glasses or another form of eye safety. NASA has more information on eye safety online.

---> Why experts say eclipse glasses shouldn’t be bought on Amazon, Temu

Copyright 2024 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit - All rights reserved.

About the Author

Kayla clarke.

Kayla is a Web Producer for ClickOnDetroit. Before she joined the team in 2018 she worked at WILX in Lansing as a digital producer.

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American Airlines just made it easier and cheaper to bring pets on flights

• American Airlines updated its policy to make flying with pets easier.
• Now, flyers can board with a pet in addition to a carry-on bag or a personal item.
• Before, flyers with a pet could only bring one small item. Any other carry-ons had to be checked.

American Airlines has streamlined its policy for passengers traveling with pets.

The airline is now allowing passengers to bring pets inside the cabin alongside a regular carry-on bag or a personal item, according to the Associated Press . However, passengers can not bring both a carry-on bag and a personal item.

Related stories

Previously, passengers who traveled with a pet could only bring one small item that fit beneath the seat in front of them, the outlet reported. Larger carry-on bags had to be checked for a $35 fee on top of the standard $150 pet fee .

Carry-on pets refer to cats or dogs that meet the specified requirements for age, size, and destination, according to its policy. Pets can also be placed in American Airlines cargo.

"On March 28, American updated its cabin pet policy allowing customers who are traveling with a pet to bring a personal item or a carry-on bag that fits in the overhead bins," an American Airlines representative told BI. "We made the change to provide a more convenient and comfortable experience to customers whose pets fly American."

The latest policy update comes after American Airlines announced in February it will raise checked bag fees . One checked bag used to cost $30, and the second was $40. Now, the first checked bag for domestic flights is $35, and the second is $45.

The airline also changed how customers earn frequent flyer miles and loyalty points.

Watch: Thousands of bags pile up at US airports after flight cancellations

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15 reasons you must visit Moscow

Home / Russia Travel Experiences / 15 reasons you must visit Moscow

Home to almost over 12 million souls, Moscow is many things to many people, and everyone finds their own reasons to visit Moscow. There is an infinite number of reasons to visit Moscow and its attractions. To make it easier for travellers, we created a list of the crowd’s top fifteen reasons and attractions everyone should visit when in Moscow.

Table of Contents

1. Indulge in countless historical and modern artworks

Whether you are just dipping your toes into the art world or you know everything about arts, Moscow is a must-visit for every self-proclaimed or certified art connoisseur and historian. The city has numerous historical and contemporary museums and art galleries and they are essential in the list when you visit Moscow. Among the plethora of galleries and museums is The State Tretyakov Gallery  holding the world’s foremost collection of Russian fine art. Another is the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts which showcases artworks from the ancient times to this day such as the paintings of Rembrandt, Botticelli, Van Gogh, and Picasso. The Moscow Museum of Modern Art , on the other hand, displays artworks created in the 20th and 21st centuries.

Moscow is not only home to famous historical paintings, the city also showcases modern, educational, and multimedia arts. The Moscow Planetarium is one of the biggest planetariums in the world. It is an interactive museum that educates everyone with their scientific resources. The openness of Russia to new forms of arts can be seen in the Multimedia Art Museum, Winzavod (Wine Factory), Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Lumiere Brothers Photography Center . These art galleries unite all forms of media, arts, and modern culture.

For the love of art, moreover, they have converted former industrial areas to unique art spaces. ARTPLAY Center of Design and Flacon Design Factory are two of the known art spaces for local organisations and artists to express their creativity, host their own workshops, lectures, design festivals, concerts, performances, and exhibits. 

TIP: Open Museum Day in Moscow offers free day-time admission in most city museums every third Sunday of the month. Forty museums and art galleries are participating including the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts, Moscow Museum of Modern Art, Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics , and State Museum of Ceramics and Kuskovo Estate of the 18th Century.

If you’re craving for more museum adventures, we have created a list of the best museum to visit in Moscow and St. Petersburg.

2. Step onto the mighty Red Square

Walk onto the uneven cobblestones alongside the throngs of bustling citizens and you’ll see centuries of Russian (and world) history reflected in the architecture of Red Square. It is the epicentre of Russia. The country’s major highways and Moscow’s main streets all originate from the Red Square. However, it is not only the heart of Russian streets but is also the heart of Russian history and culture where most of the biggest Russian events and changes unfolded such as high-profile executions and military parades. The city square also served as the main marketplace and site for national public ceremonies and festive processions. Being considered as a sacred place, it is absolutely a must-see when you visit Moscow.

Official commemorations and parades today are still mostly held in the square. The surrounding buildings of the Red Square also add great significance to why you should include the beautiful square on your bucket list when you visit Moscow. Some of these famous attractions are iconic:

• St. Basil’s Cathedral
• Lenin’s Mausoleum
• The Kremlin
• Kazan Cathedral
• The historical GUM Department Store
• State Historical Museum
• The Iberian Gate (also known as the Resurrection Gate and Chapel

3. Visit the Moscow Kremlin

The Kremlin , together with Red Square was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990. UNESCO included this architectural ensemble not just because of its outstanding design but also because of its rich historical and political linkage. That is why you should not miss this when you visit Moscow. It is located on Borovitsky Hill just above the Moskva River, on the west side of the magnificent Red Square. It serves as the Russian President’s residence and treasure houses such as the Armory Chamber Museum and the Russian Diamond Fund . Two Royal Cathedrals, the Secret Garden, and Ivan the Great Bell Tower are some of the attractions you can visit inside the Kremlin. Also, along the Kremlin wall is where you can see the gravestones of most Soviet leaders -including Stalin’s.

TIP: The Kremlin is open every day except on Thursdays and tickets for each establishment inside the Kremlin are sold separately. They also limit the number of daily visitors. May to September of every year is considered as the peak season.

4. Awaken your senses in the Bolshoi theatre

The Bolshoi Ballet Company is one of the most enduring symbols of Russia’s esteemed cultural traditions, and Moscow’s Bolshoi (Big) Theatre is the association’s fittingly elegant headquarters. Moscow’s oldest theatre has been painstakingly restored and renovated in recent years. It is a must-see day or night with their world-famous opera and ballet performances when you visit Moscow. Taking in an evening performance of a classic Russian ballet like Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker is one of the city’s most captivating cultural experiences.

Aside from the Bolshoi Theatre, there are around 170 theatres in the city; each of which features unique performances. It is the sole reason why Moscow is coined as the “City of Theatres”.  No matter what genre, as long as it is in Moscow it will be surreal.  No wonder the city attracts all theatregoers around the globe. To name a few, here are the must-visit theatres around the city: (1) Maly Theatre which showcases classic traditions of Russian Theatre, (2) Moscow Art Theatre combines classical and modern drama traditions, and (4) Theatre of Nations and (5) Gogol Centre further popularized modern arts such as post-drama and comedy production.

TIP: Most people have been planning to witness a performance (especially in Bolshoi Theatre) for years. Remember to check and purchase tickets ahead of time before getting excited to watch the spectacular performance. Also, wearing your best evening dress won’t hurt.

5. Enjoy the ambiance of Moscow parks

While Moscow’s attractions are usually known as a mixture of extravagant Tsarist architecture and stern Soviet buildings, much of Moscow is actually surprisingly green and the city’s parks have grown into its pride and joy over the years. Take a break from walking around historical establishments and rest in these well-groomed green areas. These parks provide some of Moscow’s best people-watching spots and offer various activities you can do with your group or with the locals from playing sports and board games on the pavement to simply enjoying the outdoor cafes.

Slow down from the hectic pace of the city life by having a stop-over in the most popular green spaces when you visit Moscow. Gorky Park has its own telegraph and clinic, Park of Arts Museum often hosts music festivals, art fairs and exhibits, and lastly, Sokolniki Park and Izmailovsky Park have bike rentals and small amusement parks that are perfect for family day-outs.

6. Experience the magnificent Moscow Metro

Apart from being an extremely handy way to get around the city,  Moscow’s metro system  is a striking feat of engineering. Opened in 1935, it is one of the largest and oldest underground railway systems in the world. Its grand stations are remarkably beautiful. With their grandiose architecture, intricate mosaics, and dramatic sculptures, it has turned many metro stations into picturesque tourist attractions. There are 12 lines and a total of 200 stations. Elektrozavodskaya, Arbatskaya, Kievskaya, Komsomolskaya, and Mayakovskaya are just a few of the magical stations that seems to be like an underground palace.

Visit Moscow grand stations during “dead hours” —11 am to 2 pm or after 10 pm in order get the most out of the spectacular metro stations. And for the sake of courtesy and respect, always give your seat to Babushkas or the beautiful Russian grannies on the train. Train tickets can be shared and you can buy them for 1, 2, 20, 40, and 60 trips. Unlimited Metro travel for 1, 3, and 7 full days are also available from 210 to 800 rubles. Alternatively, you can purchase a Troika Card which costs 50 rubles and allows you to travel on all public transportation in Moscow.

7. Be amazed by the beauty & grace of Moscow’s churches

In Moscow, the majority of religion belongs to the Russian Orthodox Church which has 320 of total parishes in Moscow alone. Thus, it is not surprising that Orthodox churches and its unique architecture are one of the must-sees when you visit Moscow. Onion domes had long been known as the classic design of Orthodox churches in Russia. Below, we will mention some of the iconic churches you shouldn’t miss seeing in the city.

The Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed or St. Basil Cathedral is perhaps the most popular and most unusual church in the country. It is located at the Southern end of the Red Square. Built in 1555, it is originally called the Intercession Cathedral  to commemorate Ivan the Terrible’s victory over the Tatars. The bonfire-flame-shaped-cathedral has nine towers full of colours, shapes, and patterns. It was designed like a maze as a whole while each way leads to nine chapels with creatively decorated interiors. The magnificent cathedral is open every day except for the first Wednesday of every month.

With its golden onion domes, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour  is the largest cathedral of all Russian Orthodox Church and has the capacity of over a thousand devotees. However, there is another known cathedral with golden domes —the Cathedral of the Assumption. What makes this cathedral different is that its domes are not just gold, but  they  are also light-reflecting sitting inside the Kremlin. Lastly, we would like to feature a church with neo-gothic architecture –the Moscow Immaculate Conception Catholic Cathedral.  It  is the largest Catholic building in the country. To this day, masses and Catholic religious services are still being conducted in different languages in the cathedral.

8. Visit Moscow streets and the monumental architecture

The beautiful architecture of museums and churches, makes each city street a sight to behold. For sure you’ll have a jaw-dropping moment at least once when you visit Moscow. The streets around the Red Square are a good start for you to stroll and have them as background for your OOTD photos. 

Tverskaya Stree t is known as Moscow’s fashion street and main street. This street is also one of the most expensive streets in the world, basing from the commercial rental fees. Another fashion district, Kuznetsky Most (literally translates to Blacksmith’s bridge)is where popular shops such as “Kuznetsky Most 20” – a famous concept store and “House of Foreign Books” (which is the best foreign-language bookshop) are located. Ulitsa Varvaka claims to be the oldest street and has the most churches in the city; it also shows the more medieval side of Moscow. If you are looking for high-end souvenirs, take a look at the shops on Arbat Street . Just do not forget to negotiate with the vendors and ask for discounts! Also, you get a chance to taste local vodkas as they offer free samples on the street.

9. Enjoy Moscow street food and fine dining restaurants

Moscow can surprise even the most demanding gourmands with the variety of foods , flavours and dining scenes the city has to offer. Russian cuisine is famous for exotic soups and rustic, hearty dishes like pelmeni (meat dumplings), pancakes with different fillings, and last but not the least, caviar. Sweets are also a big thing in the Russian kitchen and they are incomparable with other confectioneries that can be bought outside the country. “RotFront” soya bars , Chak-Chak Sticks and Kozinaki are just a few of the most popular sweet snacks in Moscow.

Great food is everywhere, 24 hours a day in the city. Yar , one of the oldest restaurants in Russia has been serving local Russian cuisines for nearly a century now in Moscow. Another restaurant, Praga , which opened 150 years ago is known for its European and Russian dishes in addition to their pastry shop on the ground floor. Cafe Pushkin , a three-storey restaurant is open 24 hours a day. Each floor has its own menu and theme: the Pharmacy, Library, and the Fireplace Room. The Library floor is said to have the best view of the Tverskoy Boulevard during breakfast. However, if you want to time travel, find the secret door of Mari Vanna and experience what it is like to live in a Soviet home 50 years ago. Watch old Soviet channels and look through old bookcases and photos while having traditional Russian stews and pies. And oh, do not forget to book for tables!

But there’s so much more to Moscow’s modern gastronomic landscape. From sophisticated new takes on old-school cooking to cosmopolitan eateries offering refined cuisine from around the world, Moscow is also boasting with street foods. Chebureki or cheburechnaya, as what some cafes call them, are fried triangle-shaped thin dough stuffed with minced meat and spices. On the other hand, Blini is a better option for those who have a sweet tooth. They are crepes that can be filled with, cheese, jam, honey, ham, condensed milk, or red caviar. Today, Blini are famously made and sold in Teremok — a popular fast-food chain. Another fast-food chain has popularised a Russian local snack: Kroshka-Kartoshka . Although the name translates to “tiny potato”, they serve enormous baked potatoes with cheese, pickled mushrooms, butter, and other fillings. And lastly, pirozhki, which means pie seems to be the symbol of Russian street foods. Just look around the streets and try the four local snacks that we’ve mentioned and you’ll realise that every food is stuffed and/or filled with something. Now it is your turn to stuff your belly with Moscow street food!

10. Shop till you drop in Moscow boutiques

Muscovites are mad-shoppers and once you see the brands and collectives in each shopping centre, you might become one of them. From the most glamorous high-end fashion brands, art and design pieces, to antiques and traditional handicrafts, the opportunities for a hardcore spree are endless. Make sure to drop by the two most famous shopping centres, GUM and TSUM when you visit Moscow. They are must-visits even if you are only there to admire (or baulk at) their stupendous swankiness.

GUM is on the east side of Red Square. It is a former State Department Store. The building’s architecture will instantly give you an extravagant feeling. However, along with its luxurious interior, comes the most luxurious brands and prices. It is open for twelve hours each day from 10 am to 10 pm. On the other hand, TSUM , a six-story historical gothic building is the largest high-end department store in Eastern Europe. There is a luxury supermarket which is open for twenty-four hours on the ground floor.

More affordable options are in the city’s many bustling flea markets, or in beautiful old boutique stores. Tsvetnoy Central Market and Kuznetsky Most 20 are just two of the known markets in the city where both hot and hippy street brands can be found. Local creative contemporary designers and high-end creatives are also housed in both markets.

11. Earn bragging rights with the perfect Instagram snap

Up your Instagram and Facebook feed with these views and different angles of the city. Shamelessly share your food and shoes with the streets and floors you’re walking into with your virtual friends. Or take a snap of the random streets of Moscow depicting their rich cultures. Also, do not forget the big picture! Which literally means photos of the whole city.

Did you really visit Moscow if you don’t have any photo of the Red Square and Moscow Kremlin? Stand at the centre of Red Square and Kremlin, take the most iconic shot and show the world that you were actually in Moscow. We’ve listed three buildings that have the best top views of the city. The (1) Federation Tower which also has the highest restaurant in Moscow, (2) The Moscow State University has a panoramic view of the city inside The Museum of Geography on its top floor and (3) Cathedral of Christ ’s observation deck have the most breathtaking top views of the city.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Garage Museum of Contemporary Art , GUM, ARTPlay , and Moscow Metro stations are just some of Moscow infrastructures perfect for your channel your inner artsy persona.  While walking around the Moscow CBD, do not forget to look up and take photos of the skyscrapers as far as your eyes and camera can reach. However, if you want to take a break from all the spectacular man-made architecture, take a stroll in Patriarch’s Pond , where you can feel like a real Muscovite and nature-lover.

12. Moscow never sleeps

>Let it be known: Russians love to party! And Moscow is undoubtedly the party capital of Russia. The capital city has an incredible array of nightlife options and a scene for everyone. Whether you’re keen to catch a live Russian rock band or slink into a smoky jazz club, Moscow is there for you. Go clubbing till the break of dawn or just lounge around with a beer and an endless array of fine local vodka. We have listed our top five bars and clubs to help you decide which one to go to. Go ahead and get your body moving along the music while drinking with Muscovites. In that way, you can actually experience Moscow.

Propaganda , or Probka as what regulars call it, is opened in 1997 and has about the same age as the Moscow club culture. Aside from local drinks and world-class DJs, the club is also boasting with cheap sandwiches and steaks. On Thursdays, they hold dance parties and gay parties on Sundays. Nauka i Iskusstvo (Science and Art) is for you if music is the sole reason for your night out. The club is said to host the best electronic and hip parties. Noor Bar, nonetheless, is known for their classic cocktails which can be best enjoyed on Fridays and Saturdays while listening to their DJ sets. Just make sure to go there early to secure a spot. Another two famous nightclubs are located in Artplay: Pluton and Rodnya . Pluton promotes all kinds of music and art-performances while Rodnya is a rooftop club where you can enjoy dancing while waiting for the sun to rise in Summer.  Squad 3/4  is one of the most bizarre nightclubs in Moscow. It is located at the basement of the former Central Baths building and often hosts bohemian raves.

13. Take a Moscow River Cruise

Cruising along the Moskva River is one of the best ways to see and visit Moscow. Ticket pricing of the cruise depends on the size of the boat; the bigger the boat, the more expensive and smoother its sailing will be. For 800 rubles, you can board the most famous tour boat in Moscow: the yellow Lay’s boat. It plays loud Russian pop music as you sail the river. Bigger boats cost 1,100 to 2,000 rubles per person. These cruises on bigger boats often offer cozy lunch and dinner on top of the cruise itself.

TIP : There are two main boarding piers: Hotel Ukraine and Park Kultury. If you want to save money, buy your tickets online and make sure to arrive earlier as it is hard to find the pier where your boat is at. However, if you do not mind spending more for tickets, you can purchase from street hawkers. They will personally guide you on where to find your boat and where to get off. Also, make sure to bring extra clothes even in the summer season.

14. White Christmas in Moscow

Visit Moscow and bring all your thick but light-weight clothes and experience Moscow’s white winter. The average weather in December is around -10 to 0 degrees Celsius with an average of 17-30 days of snowfall. Witness snowfall on the Red Square which transforms into a Christmas market and the biggest ice skating rink in December. Celebrate with Muscovites during the Russian Winter Festival and watch live performances, eat street foods, and play games from mid-December to mid-January in Manezh Square.

15. Explore the Medieval towns of Golden Ring

There is always more to see beyond the capital city of a country. And in Russia’s case, outside Moscow is the ancient region called the Golden Ring . The region’s name is derived from the golden onion-shaped domes of the churches around the towns and from the ring-like route in which 1967 art historian and journalist Yuri Bychkov travelled.

The Golden Ring is comprised of eight main cities:

• Yaroslavl is where the Transfiguration Monastery (now a museum) and Ioann Vasiliyevich — a Soviet-themed hotel and restaurant.
• Vladimir boasts its Golden Gate and the Cathedral of the Dormition of the Mother of God.
• Suzdal is a thirty-minute drive from Vladimir, it has five monasteries, thirty churches, and a market square (Torgovaya Ploshchad) where you can local berries and honey.
• Sergiev Posad is known to be the location of the Trinity Lavra of St Sergius — one of the largest monasteries in the world.
• Pereselavl-Zalessky is where you can enjoy windsurfing and ride hot air balloons.
• Rostov Velikiy or Rostov the Great is boasting its colourful churches and unchanged kremlin architecture.
• Ivanovo is known for its huge textile industry, it is also known as the city of brides since there more women than men in the area.
• Kostroma is where the town of Bui — a town of cultural heritage, and Trinity-Ipatiev Monastery can be explored.

Visit Moscow and experience and see in the Golden Ring afterwards. We have carefully crafted  tours  for every traveller like you.

Just as a cherry on top, here is an awesome video clip of this magnificent city, Moscow:

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