Leave it to the Japanese (as ever) to create an efficient process, but then to add a layer of fun on top. Sure, in this case it's mainly for making commuting more efficient. About 800,000 people take the trains daily and their network now extends to numerous cities, covering over 2,400 km. Specifically, you may…
Like many modern, progressive countries, Japan has its eyes wide open when it comes to the environment and what we need to do to save it. In addition to Japan's willingness to live in smaller, more sensible dwellings, they are also world leaders when it comes to rail versus auto travel. And, this…
Look on a map of Europe, you might see something that you've overlooked before. The island of Corsica appears right smack dab between Marseille and Rome. Of course, there is quite a bit of distance between the three places, so it's not simply a short drive. But, when you stop to think about…
Soon enough, this post will transform into a travelogue about a place in Texas, USA. But, for now, we simply want to say goodbye to a true gentleman and legend, Harry Belafonte, who passed away last week at the ripe old age of 96. Ninety-six. If you're of the same age as…
Walking is a boss activity to undertake daily, especially if you're a mature person who is too lazy to plunge into other forms of exercise (like us.) It must be the thing to do, as so many people in the spotlight write about it: all of these artists feature songs with the word…
Can you guess what "The KL" is? No, not some here-today gone-tomorrow hip-hop band. And not some hopeful moniker for a forlorn small town in Kansas. It's the playful (and much easier to pronounce) nickname that the residents of Kuala Lumpur use to refer to their lovely and largely unsung country. For…
Let's go forward in time to step backwards in time to learn how the internet came about, and why its origins, which are well known, may actually be more interesting than we might have thought. If you think you know the story, you might want to read on, anyway: you wouldn't be here…
We present another one of those "now you see it, now you don't" posts. Nothing lasts forever, it appears. And sometimes the powers-that-be appear to be deaf to what the people want. Here, we're talking about the Stairway to Heaven Trail on Oʻahu, Hawaii, the Haʻikū Stairs. Also known as the Stairway…
If you're looking for the unusual, you'll never go too far wrong if Japan is in your plan. A more playful people probably cannot be found than them. And why not? Why not have fun during your workday, or for your entire life, for that matter? You only live once, in…
In this day and age, there aren't many monarchies around anymore. Many see it as an outdated hangover from the past. Others (like us) understand that sentiment, but also appreciate the sheer fact that these kinds of historical constructs can even exist to this day. Some monarchies end up being A. totalitarian…
The Spanish have left an impressive, diverse, expansive and everlasting legacy across the globe. Of course, some will say that they left a trail of destruction and malaise as well, which is undeniable. But, they also brought some value to civilizations that certainly benefited from their presence. One such example is the La…
It will come as no surprise to regular reader here how much we love Europe. There are very few places in the world that offer as much diversity, excitement and romance as that most desirable continent. And, if you happen to be in the UK and want to journey to Europe, hiring a…
C'mon. Admit it. You're still a kid. You still love all of the things that you used to love, even if your bones and muscles don't always agree. Roller coasters. Surfing. Go-karts. You know. Well, even if your body complains, there are still lots of things to do where you…
It’s lonely at the top. So lay low when you can.
Provence is for you. As we say, start slowly, then taper off. And then explore Luberon Market & Villages
Without a shove, where would you be now? Another railroad story for you and, sadly, it's another one that doesn't paint the USA's Amtrak in the best of lights. And, to be sure, we like Amtrak and take it whenever we can, so we are not slagging the service at all. We're merely presenting…
We're peaceful people here at Matouring. We love everyone, unless given a reason not to. When you travel, you inevitably meet new people, and almost all of the time, that is a joyful experience. People can be the best part of the trip, and often the most memorable. So, it saddens…
Some visual eye-candy that, without words, will speak for itself. Sit down with a big glass of Montepulciano and plan your next trip to the city of mirrors.
Don't fret. Stories of the legendary, irreplaceable French baguette slowly disappearing are a bit premature. Apparently many French buyers are opting for the simpler, cheaper types of bread nowadays, and the eternal French staple, the baguette is falling from favour and also not appearing on shelves as frequently as before. To any of…
Another update for you on train service in the USA of A. Brightline, the new rail line in Florida, have just released some updated info on their new terminal in Orlando. This new, shiny facility will connect to its existing stop in Miami. We regularly bang on and on about how the…