Archives: Feature Articles

…is ringing out across the nation, laying the foundation for the soon-to-come Mexican-American War and battle for Texas. San Antonio, then a relatively small outpost, begins to rebuild after a brutal battle and the hard work is fuelled by… chilli.

We’ve all fallen in love before and, at some point, have probably fallen in love with a bowl of chilli. Spicy, rich and hearty, chilli comes in many varieties and tops some of the most primo of foods. Quick way to level-up a hot dog? Add chilli.

It doesn’t matter whether you take it with beans, cheese or breadcrumbs, chilli is enjoyed by people all over the world. Well, except for iconic food traveller Anthony Bourdain, for whom it was reminiscent of “a warm bag of crap”. But don’t listen to him on this one—even legends make mistakes occasionally.

In Southern United States, it’s a distinct kind of street food that’s made all the more amazing when you know the history of San Antonio’s chilli godmothers.

A band of women boldly named the ‘Chilli Queens’ once made their way to Alamo and set up shop in its open air market. While mostly Mexican, there were some African American and First Nations women in their band, and together they served up their grandmothers’ secret chilli.

Dressed in colourful dresses, singing songs, and usually accompanied by roving musicians, they would fill the square with song and spice, offering their homemade chilli to a hungry city.

For decades, this band of Queens served their chilli daily from the market, providing a cheap and hearty meal not just to the people of San Antonio, but to travellers who caught wind. Tales of the Chilli Queens were featured in newspaper articles and travel guides, they were mentioned in several novels, including O. Henry’s The Gift of the Magi and Katherine Anne Porter’s Pale Horse, Pale Rider, and soon chilli was spreading across the nation, becoming a popular fixture on menus coast to coast.

Sadly, resentment and racism towards Mexican culture forced the Chilli Queens out of business. The city government predominantly to blame after they passed an 1918 ordinance that banned street vendors from selling food. However, the Chilli Queens’ legacy lives on as a San Antonio street staple, slightly reinvented. Enter the Frito Pie.

At some point someone started serving chilli in a chip packet, giving birth to the Frito Pie—a charmingly lowbrow culinary combination that sees corn chips paired with their natural chilli allies. Like yin and yang or Simon & Garfunkel—they’re naturally better together.

Chilli by the ladle. Click to view gallery

No one seems quite sure where this originated. Some say it was a man on his lunch break at a convenience store while others reckon it was the Doolin family (inventors of the Fritos corn chips brand). There’s even talk of the Frito pie originating in the 1960s thanks to a woman named Teresa Hernandez who worked at the Woolworths lunch counter.

What we can all agree on, however, is that this is a distinctly southern American culinary invention, and a San Antonian street snack for the ages.

Frito Pie in all its glory. Click to view gallery

THE ORIGINAL RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE AND BAR-B-Q
A beloved, if basic, BBQ joint with multiple locations across San Antonio.

CHUNKY’S BURGERS
As well as offering a delicious Frito Pie topped with chilli and cheese, you can also get the 4 Horsemen burger here, famously dubbed the ‘Hottest Burger on the Planet’ by Man vs Food.

SAM’S BURGER JOINT
A classic burger joint where you can catch a band while you munch on your chilli.

ANY SAN ANTONIO FOOD TRUCK
This is where the purists will tell you to go, find them at any sports stadiums or fairs around the city.

It’s also one of the greatest joys of travel. As Anthony Bourdain once said “unlicensed hooch from a stranger in a parking lot. Good idea? Yes, of course it is.” And we wholeheartedly agree with him.

From exploring a foreign city’s after hours scene to taking a shot with a bartender and pub-crawling with locals, good alcohol can be the perfect entry point to making new mates and understanding a destination. But to be a truly decent drinking mate, you’ve got to be aware of the local customs. Here’s some of the world’s more wild / weird drinking traditions to commit to memory:

JAPAN
NEVER SERVE YOURSELF, YOU SILLY GOOSE

It’s no secret that the Japanese love a tipple or three. If you’ve never woken up on a Tokyo street after izakaya-hopping with several highfalutin salarymen, have you really lived? Question for the ages. But as with everything in Japan, there are customs to rigorously follow, even while knocking one back. The first few drinks of the night, whether they’re beer or sake, are always communally shared. Adorable. So kawaii. The other thing to remember is to never serve yourself, you absolute heathen. It’s polite to let one of your mates serve you, and then you respond in kind.

KAZAKHSTAN
SAVE ALL HORSE MILK LEFTOVERS, NOTHING GOES TO WASTE

Admittedly we don’t know a heap about Central Asia’s Kazakhstan. We know there is insanely good skiing and Borat really did a number on it back in 2006 (whether that boosted or hindered the national tourism is still tbc). We also know that locals here love a bit of fermented horse milk, AKA kumis. The thing with kumis is that none of it should ever, ever be wasted. Sacrilege. So if you’re having a pint, make sure you pour any leftovers back into the communal kumis jug. Waste not, want not. Horse milk 4eva.

CHINA
RAISE A GLASS… THEN BANG IT ON THE TABLE

A night of drinking in Beijing or Shanghai is also a night of toasting (and not the kind with butter and vegemite). The Chinese love to honour their drinking mates, and their preferred way is to raise a glass. Or several.

If you’re being toasted, make sure you toast the host right back. You also can’t forget the clink, because, respect. If there are a few toasts happening, go ahead and bang your glass on the table. The louder, the better. Drinking is a celebration here! Tell your friends you love them! Fill your elders’ glasses to the brim!

Click to view gallery

MONGOLIA
DO THE DIP AND FLICK!

There’s a downright ceremony to drinking vodka in Mongolia, and we love to see it. If you’re travelling the land of a thousand gers and find yourself offered a glass (or bowl) of vodka, the custom-appropriate thing to do is dip a finger in and then flick it once towards the sky, once towards the earth and a little dab on your forehead. Why? You’re honouring the local spirits, duh. If it’s too early in the day for vodka, just put your finger to your forehead, say thank you and hand it back. No harm, no foul, no vodka.

HUNGARY
NEVER RAISE A TOAST WITH A BEER

So back in 1849 the Austrian Hapsburgs quashed the Hungarian Revolution and executed a bunch of Hungarian generals and then toasted those deaths with beer. Years of reprisals against all participants followed, which was a real scumbag move and never to be forgotten by the Hungarians, who to this day refuse to raise a toast with beer. For anyone!

So if you find yourself at a bar in Budapest, and you know a speech is incoming, maybe grab a pálinka if you want to stay a culturally decent drinking mate.

Click to view gallery

AUSTRALIA
IN FOR ONE ROUND, IN FOR THEM ALL

Australians are many things—suspiciously relaxed around spiders, very good at sports—but they’re also exceptionally fair. So if you’re at the pub and you enter a round, hooley dooley you better hold up your end of the beer bargain or so help you god.

A round is basically when you take it in turns to buy a group of people drinks. There’s no size determination for a round, you could go round-for-round with just one person or 10 people (if your bank account is big enough).

Click to view gallery

TIM McGLONE

Deputy Editor

INSTA: @mcglone.jpg

I was once sent on a trip to cover a newly opened hot spring experience in Victoria’s east. My partner couldn’t come so I hoofed it solo. The springs were beautiful—you can read about them in issue seven of get lost—but the biggest impact came courtesy of the people in the tented-pod next to me, who had the absolute NIGHT OF THEIR LIVES. I mean ooft, they were really going at it. And this impacted my view of this specific kind of travel: never go glamping in a romantic location by yourself, or bring noise-cancelling headphones if you do.

LAURA WATERS

Contributor

INSTA: @laurawaters_writer

It was always going to be an adventure, but I had no idea when I set out to hike New Zealand’s Te Araroa Trail that it would end up changing my life. Those 3,000km of gnarly but utterly spectacular trail—across mountains, forests, rivers and beach—taught me I was capable of far more than I realised. I came home, quit my corporate job, and chased a long-held dream of being a writer and author.

BEN McNAMARA

Contributor

INSTA: @thisisbenemac

“Don’t sit behind the driver. If he gets shots, it will go through you. It’s best to sit in the middle seat”. I used to dream of working in a war-zone and a few years back, that dream turned into an adrenaline-fuelled, very surreal reality in Kabul. We’d drive past military posts and roads full of shelled pot-holes. American helicopters could be heard overhead moving diplomats from temporary homes to embassies. I’m from the Melbourne suburbs…everything about Kabul was strange. The personal adventure was brilliant, but the brutality of existence in an unfair place like Afghanistan was not.

ROBERTO SERRINI

Our Man on the Ground

INSTA: @serrini

My time in the off-grid village of Anuk Lang in Cambodia was life changing. Coming from NYC where everything is available 24/7 to then experiencing what life is like without signal, without noise, without exterior influence—just bathing in community and family—gave me a unique perspective on life. Now no matter where I go, no matter how exotic or extravagant, I remember my time there, and try to always find that truth in the experience at hand.

Mongolia was ranked as the number #1 destination to travel to in 2024, while Australia’s own Kangaroo Island was seen as the #2 region, a tremendous effort as they continue to bounce back from devastating bushfires of 2019/20.

Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024 list is essential gift-giving for the traveller in your life. Available at $27.99 RRP from all bookstores around Australia, as well as online.

From Rotorua to Taupō

2. Craters of the Moon 

Most countries around the world have one or two impressive natural resources that wow travellers, whereas New Zealand has about 50. One of these is the geothermal walkway at Craters of the Moon, a cratered valley of other-worldly proportions, featuring bubbling craters and steaming vents. Take one small step for man after the other, and remind yourself that this outrageous slice of landscape is in fact still on Planet Earth.

TO THE MOON

From Taupō to Bay of Plenty

3. GINDULGENCE FESTIVAL

Gindulgence is New Zealand’s premier gin festival, with events in 2023 at Tauranga (November 4), Nelson (November 18) and Wellington (January 20 – 21). The Tauranga one is the one we’re choosing to focus on – set amongt the beaches and volcanic cones of one of New Zealand’s oldest cities, there’ll be free tastings, distiller talks, cocktails and live music. Leave the car keys in your hotel room and grab yourself a G & T in the sun – what a vibe.

GINDULGE YOURSELF

Waikato

4. HOBBITON

“It’s a dangerous business Frodo, going out your door.

“You step onto the road, and if you don’t keep your feet, there’s no knowing where you might be swept off to.”

Alright, we know: Hobbition isn’t really the nowhere-near-the-beaten-track sort of vibe you subscribe to get lost for – it’s actually one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations. But it’s popular for a reason, and we’re fairly certain Bilbo Baggins and get lost are akin when it comes to travel and adventure. Walk the charming paths and green hills of The Shire, grab a pint at The Green Dragon Inn, get a photo in front of a hobbit hole and boog under the Party Tree like it’s your Eleventy-First birthday.

TO THE SHIRE

West Coast

5. GET SOME WAVES, AND GET SOME FOOD

New Zealand’s answer to Byron Bay is located about 30 minute’s drive west of Hamilton, on the country’s north-west coast. Raglan is a great option for those looking for a little bit of bohemian luxury in rugged natural surroundings. It’s also ideal for those looking to catch a wave, with New Zealand’s longest point break on offer here. At the end of the day, hit up Ulo’s Kitchen – a funky, family-run Japanese restaurant is undoubtedly the trendiest place to eat in the region, with a DJ deck, eclectic décor, fresh food, local craft beer.

EAT SURF REPEAT

6. Night vibes in Auckland 

You’ve made it to the big smoke. You’re near the end of your road trip, but it’s not a road trip without getting absolutely lit at least once – fortunately Auckland has you covered.  New Zealand’s largest city is in a vibe in a few areas but we reccommend K’ Road, an up and coming section where chilled sundowners and proper disco boogs are equally achievable. Madam George is a modern Peruvian restaurant where you can sample exquisite fare, and a great place to start. Caretaker is an intimate New York-style drinking lounge, and if you’re still going strong later on, InkBar is drum and bass operation open until very late.

READ OUR GUIDE TO AUCKLAND’S NIGHTLIFE

Kerikeri

7. THE ARK

The chequered flag to your road trip is on the northern tip of the island – but this is no frantic to dash to the finish line.

We love The Ark – a small houseboat with its own lake, situated in a tiny corner of the world named Kerikeri, a quaint village with an even quainter pub and a winery.

It’s a little wooden shack docked onto the wharf of the lake, with a deck to sit out and read, drink or get a tan, or maybe all of those. Go for a dip in the lake, and forget about notifications – Zuckerberg can’t get you out here.

GO FULL NOAH

I feel like I shouldn’t have to explain why this is the dream blunt set up, but here goes: Seth Rogen is invited because he is synonymous with good ganja and all I want to do is get high and listen to his laugh on repeat. Can that shit, plug me in. While Seth is rolling (one one of his beautifully crafted weed trays) Diplo is on vibe control, we’re talking bud beats—the kind that hijack your nervous system and set it to self-soothe. Diplo is also a man of the people, he’s travelled A LOT so I’m expecting some obscure Chilean house to really complement the setting. 

Then there’s Neil, Neil who will quite literally transport us to different galaxies, universes, realms with his mellifluous orations on time travel and cosmology and black holes. This is like that time you went camping down the coast with your mates, smoked a cheeky spliff and looked up at a few stars—but beam it up to 100. And add aliens. My spirit has left my body and is now wandering around a new star system. Oh, and Seth brought chicken nuggets.

Tim McGlone

Deputy Editor 

We’re in a car on a road-trip across the U.S., east to west to escape the cold. It’s quite chilly – we’re not far past Philly, so it’s puffy jackets and thick hoodies in Azaelia Banks’ pickup truck, which kind of resembles The Simpsons’ Canyanero but with a tray.

Azalea’s connection to travel is that she globetrots the world and verbally abuses the fans that come to her shows in every country she visits (a tenuous link, I admit). Michael Palin is to my left in the back seat and he’s reasoning with Azealia, describing his trip to North Korea and how even countries suffering from squalid oppression under ruthless dictators have something to offer in a social and cultural sense. Azalea refuses to defer to Palin’s royalty as a traveller/funny dude and is spewing some harsh but verbose swearing that is funnier than it is offensive. Palin gets it because he’s a chiller and is so well travelled and has seen it all before. 

I check in with George Best (legendary footballer, journeyman in his later days) in the front passenger seat who is rolling one of the fattest baseball bats I’ve ever seen, but it’s taking him ages because he’s really drunk. He says something funny and we all laugh. Azealia tells everyone to back up and fuck me dead if she doesn’t open the door of the portable electric oven she has hooked up to the car’s cigarette lighter to reveal some tasty smelling nachos cooking up. George finally gets there and we’re all quiet while Palin tells us what John Cleese is really like. We smoke and eat nachos; life is good. 

Got a dream rotation? Hit us up: info@getlostmagazine.com 

Next up:

What I was wearing in…

Our editorial team takes a look, for better or worse, at the outfits they wore in their travels down the years. Even if only for the briefest of moment of time, each of these outfits were at some point kind of cool…either that or they weren’t.

Get low-key lit

Whip up a Bahama Mama or a Sexy Monkey at Kangaroo Island Spirits’ Cellar Door Cocktail Masterclass, and get ‘Low Key Island Lit’ which is a special category of lit you probably don’t know about. Kangaroo Island Spirits  by the way have been making gin, spirits and cocktails for a long time now – they are the birthplace of Australian gin. They’ve gotten seriously good at it, and so they’ll be winning spirits you’ll be using.

Shake it like a Polaroid Picture

Shuck some oysters

People either seem to love or hate oysters. If you love these salty, slippery suckers, hit up The Oyster Farm Shop, where you can get the freshest local oysters on the Island plus, Wild Marron, Abalone, Abalini, King George Whiting and more.

PHRESH PHISH

7. Drive the Wichita Mountains Scenic Byway

Who doesn’t love a road trip? And this one is an epic mosaic of rocky lowlands, prairie and tall timbers. BYO fitting playlist (‘Wichita Lineman’ suuurely has to feature), shift into cruise control and wind your way through incredible landscapes and historic communities. Keep an eye out for the endangered black-capped vireo, wildlife lovers. Or if flora is more your thing, head here in the warmer months when the grounds explode with wildflowers.

Click play to watch video

6. Go stargazing at Tenkiller State Park

The night sky has been an important facet of Native culture for thousands of years—informing things like agricultural practices. It’s knowledge that’s been passed down through generations. And one of the best places in Oklahoma to look up at that very same sky is Tenkiller State Park. Also known as “heaven in the hills” this slice of paradise is beautiful by day, and astounding by night.

7. Drive the Wichita Mountains Scenic Byway

Who doesn’t love a road trip? And this one is an epic mosaic of rocky lowlands, prairie and tall timbers. BYO fitting playlist (‘Wichita Lineman’ suuurely has to feature), shift into cruise control and wind your way through incredible landscapes and historic communities. Keep an eye out for the endangered black-capped vireo, wildlife lovers. Or if flora is more your thing, head here in the warmer months when the grounds explode with wildflowers.

Click play to watch video

5. Explore the First Americans Museum

Thirty years in the making, this is a one-of-a-kind museum that tells history through the lens of 39 Native American Nations headquartered in Oklahoma City. If you’re looking for an incredible museum experience — this is it. Expect a carefully curated collection of Native narratives, perspectives, histories, cultures and arts. You could get literally lost in the 175,000 square foot centre, but don’t worry there’s a Native-inspired restaurant to keep you fed and watered.

6. Go stargazing at Tenkiller State Park

The night sky has been an important facet of Native culture for thousands of years—informing things like agricultural practices. It’s knowledge that’s been passed down through generations. And one of the best places in Oklahoma to look up at that very same sky is Tenkiller State Park. Also known as “heaven in the hills” this slice of paradise is beautiful by day, and astounding by night.

7. Drive the Wichita Mountains Scenic Byway

Who doesn’t love a road trip? And this one is an epic mosaic of rocky lowlands, prairie and tall timbers. BYO fitting playlist (‘Wichita Lineman’ suuurely has to feature), shift into cruise control and wind your way through incredible landscapes and historic communities. Keep an eye out for the endangered black-capped vireo, wildlife lovers. Or if flora is more your thing, head here in the warmer months when the grounds explode with wildflowers.

Click play to watch video

4. Learn the art of Cherokee twining

There’s nothing like upskilling your craft game. And the art of twining is a first class place to start. For Cherokee people, twining by hand with natural fibres is a skill that well predates the arrival of European settlers. On Cherokee land you can learn from Betty Frogg, as she teaches you to twine a small bag. Handy! Cultured! Crafty!

5. Explore the First Americans Museum

Thirty years in the making, this is a one-of-a-kind museum that tells history through the lens of 39 Native American Nations headquartered in Oklahoma City. If you’re looking for an incredible museum experience — this is it. Expect a carefully curated collection of Native narratives, perspectives, histories, cultures and arts. You could get literally lost in the 175,000 square foot centre, but don’t worry there’s a Native-inspired restaurant to keep you fed and watered.

6. Go stargazing at Tenkiller State Park

The night sky has been an important facet of Native culture for thousands of years—informing things like agricultural practices. It’s knowledge that’s been passed down through generations. And one of the best places in Oklahoma to look up at that very same sky is Tenkiller State Park. Also known as “heaven in the hills” this slice of paradise is beautiful by day, and astounding by night.

7. Drive the Wichita Mountains Scenic Byway

Who doesn’t love a road trip? And this one is an epic mosaic of rocky lowlands, prairie and tall timbers. BYO fitting playlist (‘Wichita Lineman’ suuurely has to feature), shift into cruise control and wind your way through incredible landscapes and historic communities. Keep an eye out for the endangered black-capped vireo, wildlife lovers. Or if flora is more your thing, head here in the warmer months when the grounds explode with wildflowers.

Click play to watch video

3. Attend a powerful Powwow

A Powwow is a sacred ceremonial gathering where Native peoples and their guests come together to sing, dance, drum, celebrate and (sometimes) compete. It’s a powerful and moving tradition to witness, and an important ceremony in Native American culture. There are several Powwow’s that are open to the general public where you MIGHT even be invited by the emcee to participate in a dance and feel the rhythm of the Powwow drums. If that’s your thing.

4. Learn the art of Cherokee twining

There’s nothing like upskilling your craft game. And the art of twining is a first class place to start. For Cherokee people, twining by hand with natural fibres is a skill that well predates the arrival of European settlers. On Cherokee land you can learn from Betty Frogg, as she teaches you to twine a small bag. Handy! Cultured! Crafty!

5. Explore the First Americans Museum

Thirty years in the making, this is a one-of-a-kind museum that tells history through the lens of 39 Native American Nations headquartered in Oklahoma City. If you’re looking for an incredible museum experience — this is it. Expect a carefully curated collection of Native narratives, perspectives, histories, cultures and arts. You could get literally lost in the 175,000 square foot centre, but don’t worry there’s a Native-inspired restaurant to keep you fed and watered.

6. Go stargazing at Tenkiller State Park

The night sky has been an important facet of Native culture for thousands of years—informing things like agricultural practices. It’s knowledge that’s been passed down through generations. And one of the best places in Oklahoma to look up at that very same sky is Tenkiller State Park. Also known as “heaven in the hills” this slice of paradise is beautiful by day, and astounding by night.

7. Drive the Wichita Mountains Scenic Byway

Who doesn’t love a road trip? And this one is an epic mosaic of rocky lowlands, prairie and tall timbers. BYO fitting playlist (‘Wichita Lineman’ suuurely has to feature), shift into cruise control and wind your way through incredible landscapes and historic communities. Keep an eye out for the endangered black-capped vireo, wildlife lovers. Or if flora is more your thing, head here in the warmer months when the grounds explode with wildflowers.

Click play to watch video

2. Hike Jospeh H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve

If you’re of the more active travel persuasion, a little time spent amongst the prairie is gonna satisfy all sorts of nature cravings. This epic expanse (almost 40,000 acres) is the south-entrance to the largest remaining virgin tallgrass prairie in the world. Steeped in history and filled with IG-worthy vistas (the kind Native Americans have looked after and enjoyed for centuries), you won’t regret spending a day hiking the Prairie Earth Trail playing spot the bison and bluebird.

3. Attend a powerful Powwow

A Powwow is a sacred ceremonial gathering where Native peoples and their guests come together to sing, dance, drum, celebrate and (sometimes) compete. It’s a powerful and moving tradition to witness, and an important ceremony in Native American culture. There are several Powwow’s that are open to the general public where you MIGHT even be invited by the emcee to participate in a dance and feel the rhythm of the Powwow drums. If that’s your thing.

4. Learn the art of Cherokee twining

There’s nothing like upskilling your craft game. And the art of twining is a first class place to start. For Cherokee people, twining by hand with natural fibres is a skill that well predates the arrival of European settlers. On Cherokee land you can learn from Betty Frogg, as she teaches you to twine a small bag. Handy! Cultured! Crafty!

5. Explore the First Americans Museum

Thirty years in the making, this is a one-of-a-kind museum that tells history through the lens of 39 Native American Nations headquartered in Oklahoma City. If you’re looking for an incredible museum experience — this is it. Expect a carefully curated collection of Native narratives, perspectives, histories, cultures and arts. You could get literally lost in the 175,000 square foot centre, but don’t worry there’s a Native-inspired restaurant to keep you fed and watered.

6. Go stargazing at Tenkiller State Park

The night sky has been an important facet of Native culture for thousands of years—informing things like agricultural practices. It’s knowledge that’s been passed down through generations. And one of the best places in Oklahoma to look up at that very same sky is Tenkiller State Park. Also known as “heaven in the hills” this slice of paradise is beautiful by day, and astounding by night.

7. Drive the Wichita Mountains Scenic Byway

Who doesn’t love a road trip? And this one is an epic mosaic of rocky lowlands, prairie and tall timbers. BYO fitting playlist (‘Wichita Lineman’ suuurely has to feature), shift into cruise control and wind your way through incredible landscapes and historic communities. Keep an eye out for the endangered black-capped vireo, wildlife lovers. Or if flora is more your thing, head here in the warmer months when the grounds explode with wildflowers.

Click play to watch video

But what, besides its majestic red rocks and green Ozark hills, makes Oklahoma so special? More than half of the state is legally recognised as Native Territory; it’s presently headquarters’ to 39 different tribal nations; and is the perfect destination for learning about America’s living Native history.

If you’re looking to get inspired by one of the world’s most fascinating Indigenous cultures, Oklahoma is the place to do it. Not sure where to start? Here’s seven OK experiences to kick off your journey:

1. Dine at Natv

Often unheralded, Native American dining deserves a slice of the culinary limelight. And Broken Arrow’s Natv restaurant is doing just that. Founded by Jacques Siegfriend, of Shawnee descent, this menu is all about showcasing native ingredients in a deliciously, delicious modern way. Farm-to-table, you can expect everything from corn cakes and bison tacos to Sunchoke gnocchi. We’ll take two of everything, please and thank you.

2. Hike Jospeh H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve

If you’re of the more active travel persuasion, a little time spent amongst the prairie is gonna satisfy all sorts of nature cravings. This epic expanse (almost 40,000 acres) is the south-entrance to the largest remaining virgin tallgrass prairie in the world. Steeped in history and filled with IG-worthy vistas (the kind Native Americans have looked after and enjoyed for centuries), you won’t regret spending a day hiking the Prairie Earth Trail playing spot the bison and bluebird.

3. Attend a powerful Powwow

A Powwow is a sacred ceremonial gathering where Native peoples and their guests come together to sing, dance, drum, celebrate and (sometimes) compete. It’s a powerful and moving tradition to witness, and an important ceremony in Native American culture. There are several Powwow’s that are open to the general public where you MIGHT even be invited by the emcee to participate in a dance and feel the rhythm of the Powwow drums. If that’s your thing.

4. Learn the art of Cherokee twining

There’s nothing like upskilling your craft game. And the art of twining is a first class place to start. For Cherokee people, twining by hand with natural fibres is a skill that well predates the arrival of European settlers. On Cherokee land you can learn from Betty Frogg, as she teaches you to twine a small bag. Handy! Cultured! Crafty!

5. Explore the First Americans Museum

Thirty years in the making, this is a one-of-a-kind museum that tells history through the lens of 39 Native American Nations headquartered in Oklahoma City. If you’re looking for an incredible museum experience — this is it. Expect a carefully curated collection of Native narratives, perspectives, histories, cultures and arts. You could get literally lost in the 175,000 square foot centre, but don’t worry there’s a Native-inspired restaurant to keep you fed and watered.

6. Go stargazing at Tenkiller State Park

The night sky has been an important facet of Native culture for thousands of years—informing things like agricultural practices. It’s knowledge that’s been passed down through generations. And one of the best places in Oklahoma to look up at that very same sky is Tenkiller State Park. Also known as “heaven in the hills” this slice of paradise is beautiful by day, and astounding by night.

7. Drive the Wichita Mountains Scenic Byway

Who doesn’t love a road trip? And this one is an epic mosaic of rocky lowlands, prairie and tall timbers. BYO fitting playlist (‘Wichita Lineman’ suuurely has to feature), shift into cruise control and wind your way through incredible landscapes and historic communities. Keep an eye out for the endangered black-capped vireo, wildlife lovers. Or if flora is more your thing, head here in the warmer months when the grounds explode with wildflowers.

Click play to watch video

But what, besides its majestic red rocks and green Ozark hills, makes Oklahoma so special? More than half of the state is legally recognised as Native Territory; it’s presently headquarters’ to 39 different tribal nations; and is the perfect destination for learning about America’s living Native history.

If you’re looking to get inspired by one of the world’s most fascinating Indigenous cultures, Oklahoma is the place to do it. Not sure where to start? Here’s seven OK experiences to kick off your journey:

1. Dine at Natv

Often unheralded, Native American dining deserves a slice of the culinary limelight. And Broken Arrow’s Natv restaurant is doing just that. Founded by Jacques Siegfriend, of Shawnee descent, this menu is all about showcasing native ingredients in a deliciously, delicious modern way. Farm-to-table, you can expect everything from corn cakes and bison tacos to Sunchoke gnocchi. We’ll take two of everything, please and thank you.

2. Hike Jospeh H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve

If you’re of the more active travel persuasion, a little time spent amongst the prairie is gonna satisfy all sorts of nature cravings. This epic expanse (almost 40,000 acres) is the south-entrance to the largest remaining virgin tallgrass prairie in the world. Steeped in history and filled with IG-worthy vistas (the kind Native Americans have looked after and enjoyed for centuries), you won’t regret spending a day hiking the Prairie Earth Trail playing spot the bison and bluebird.

3. Attend a powerful Powwow

A Powwow is a sacred ceremonial gathering where Native peoples and their guests come together to sing, dance, drum, celebrate and (sometimes) compete. It’s a powerful and moving tradition to witness, and an important ceremony in Native American culture. There are several Powwow’s that are open to the general public where you MIGHT even be invited by the emcee to participate in a dance and feel the rhythm of the Powwow drums. If that’s your thing.

4. Learn the art of Cherokee twining

There’s nothing like upskilling your craft game. And the art of twining is a first class place to start. For Cherokee people, twining by hand with natural fibres is a skill that well predates the arrival of European settlers. On Cherokee land you can learn from Betty Frogg, as she teaches you to twine a small bag. Handy! Cultured! Crafty!

5. Explore the First Americans Museum

Thirty years in the making, this is a one-of-a-kind museum that tells history through the lens of 39 Native American Nations headquartered in Oklahoma City. If you’re looking for an incredible museum experience — this is it. Expect a carefully curated collection of Native narratives, perspectives, histories, cultures and arts. You could get literally lost in the 175,000 square foot centre, but don’t worry there’s a Native-inspired restaurant to keep you fed and watered.

6. Go stargazing at Tenkiller State Park

The night sky has been an important facet of Native culture for thousands of years—informing things like agricultural practices. It’s knowledge that’s been passed down through generations. And one of the best places in Oklahoma to look up at that very same sky is Tenkiller State Park. Also known as “heaven in the hills” this slice of paradise is beautiful by day, and astounding by night.

7. Drive the Wichita Mountains Scenic Byway

Who doesn’t love a road trip? And this one is an epic mosaic of rocky lowlands, prairie and tall timbers. BYO fitting playlist (‘Wichita Lineman’ suuurely has to feature), shift into cruise control and wind your way through incredible landscapes and historic communities. Keep an eye out for the endangered black-capped vireo, wildlife lovers. Or if flora is more your thing, head here in the warmer months when the grounds explode with wildflowers.

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And because we love you, we’ve curated the bestest, most sickest, totally raddest experiences across the archipelago. In fact, we narrowed it down to one adventure per main island. From sailing with sea nomads and trekking to an acid crater lake to renting your own private island (Branson-style), this is our ultimate guide to Indo’s secret spots.

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BANGGAI ISLANDS
Live on a boat and meet Bajau freedivers

The Banggai Island Regency (sounds fancy, right) is an archipelago in Sulawesi.

More accurate definition: HEAVEN ON EARTH. Crystal clear waters, insane diving, remote villages. The Banggai have got it all, and one of the best ways to adventure the area is on a liveaboard. More accurate definition: HEAVEN ON A BOAT.

You’ll get to cruise around the archipelago, even stopping by smaller islands to meet the local, semi-nomadic Bajau people who are known for being able to hold their breath for an incredibly long period of time (thanks to their larger spleens, thanks evolution!) These communities are still very much adhering to a traditional way of life, with houses built on stilts over the water, and living from and with the sea. Truly once in a lifetime.

Click to GO FULL NOMAD

NORTH SUMATRA
Kayak the world’s biggest volcanic lake

Sumatra is a veritable wonderland.

Sitting west of Java and south of the Malay Peninsula, it has got orangutans and volcanoes and the world’s biggest volcanic lake! Oh my! That’s right, Lake Toba is the largest volcanic lake on earth. Which is quite a feat considering places like Hawai’i and Aotearoa (New Zealand) exist. The site of a supervolcano caldera (the largest known eruption in the last 25 million years) Lake Toba runs 100 kms long, 30 kms wide and is up to 500 metres deep. Wowee.

We recommend jumping in a kayak and pulling up to some of the smaller villages, most of which are traditional ethnic Batak peoples. The main town of Tuk Tuk is definitely on the beaten Sumatra path, but it’s possible to get off it and explore what is a beautiful, enchanting part of Indonesia. If you venture towards the northern end of the lake, don’t miss Sipiso-Piso waterfall—a gargantuan 120-metre flow that free falls from a cave into the water below.

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WEST JAVA
Safari to see the last Javan Rhinos

The Javan rhinoceros has the (unwanted) honour of being considered the rarest large mammal on the planet.

The planet, guys. Thanks to things like habitat degradation and colonial-era trophy hunting, this beautiful species has been reduced to an estimated 70 animals. And they’re all living in Java’s World Heritage Ujung Kulon National Park.

If Attenborough is your idol, this wild, remote and ridiculously biodiverse corner of western Java has your name all over it. While sightings of the rhinoceros are rare (though not to be ruled out) you might also spot other endangered species, like the Javan leopard, silvery gibbon and Javan lutung (a cuddly monkey). Think of it as your Indonesian safari experience.

Click if RHINO YOU WANT TO

WEST KALIMANTAN
See a supernatural Tatung parade

Okay, so here’s some history for you: the term ‘tatung’ refers to a person who is believed to be possessed by supernatural spirits called ‘lauya’.

The consequences? Supernatural gifts and powers. Cool, right? You can’t just become a Tatung though, it’s an ability that is passed down through a bloodline.

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Tatungs are still celebrated in Kalimantan to this day, and every year on Cap Go Meh day (end of Chinese New Year festivities) you can see all Tatungs in Singkawang take to the streets in a lavish, loud, slightly terrifying way. Why terrifying? One of the rituals involves subjecting your body to pain and torture. So if you’re not good with gore, maybe give this one a miss.

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PADAR ISLAND
Padar Island Day trekking with a Pink Beach dip

You’ve probably heard of the Komodo Islands before — home to Komodo National Park, territory of the dinosaur-esque Komodo dragon — this Flores region is world-renowned for at least 10 different (very good) reasons.

Not only can you see a 70kg monitor lizard in the wild (pretty extraordinary) but you can follow that up with a boat trip over to Padar Island for IG-worthy trekking.

Padar Island is not the easiest place to explore, considering it requires transport from Labuan Bajo and the payment of an entry fee. But don’t let that deter you, fellow adventurer! The moderate day hiking with panoramic archipelago views are worth every drop of sweat. And you can wash it all off at the (very) Pink Beach anyway. If you’re a photographer, get here stat—golden hours on Padar are otherworldly. And, in good news for your camera gear, the climate here is typically drier and sunnier than the rest of Indo.

Click and KOMO-DO IT

RAJA AMPAT
Dive an isolated, global marine hub

If your travel vibe is far-flung isolation with a dose of paradise thrown in, then get yourself to Raja Ampat. Stat.

Home to over 1,500 islands, this archipelago is considered the global centre of marine diversity. THE GLOBAL CENTRE. That means the diving and/or snorkelling, heck, just looking over the side of a boat here, is fantabulous. From dugongs and orcas to some of the world’s most colourful, thriving coral reefs—Raja Ampat is a marine lovers dream. It’s like Finding Nemo on an acid trip.

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There are over 200 dive sites to choose from, but a lot of the diving is best suited to more confident/advanced divers. Many are drift dives, with strong-ish currents whipping you around the reef. Hella exciting for strong divers, not ideal for newbies. That said, the snorkelling here is luminous and stacked with wildlife and the waters are crystal bloody clear.

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EAST JAVA
See blue fire at the world’s largest acid crater

Okay, there are a few volcano hikes to choose from in Indonesia. All of them are epic. But we reckon the lesser-known Ijen volcano complex is up for there for unreal times.

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Located on the border between the Banyuwangi Regency and Bondowoso Regency in East Java, this volcano hike is not for the faint of heart.

You’ll start early and then reach the peak just before sunrise, where you’ll welcome the new day with a panoramic vista and view to a blue acid lake. Incredible. Not so incredible? The fumes. You’ll have to wear a gas mask when you’re at the top because of the sulphur fumes. But that just makes it all the more gnarly, right?

Click to GET FIRED UP

PALAU PANGKIL
Rent your own private island

Feeling bougie? Want to throw a ripper birthday party? Want to make your ex think you’re living your best life?

You can hire out an ENTIRE PRIVATE ISLAND for such festivities. Channel Sir Richard Branson, you good thing.

The exclusive private island utopia at Palau Pangkil actually describes itself as ‘Survivor with maids and butlers’, so if you’re into deserted island-chic, driftwood palaces and hammocks galore—this is the island for you. And 25 of your best mates.

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SIMEULUE ISLAND
Surf some seriously secluded swell

Did you know Simeulue Island, part of the Aceh province, is considered one of Indonesia’s last surfing frontiers? Now you do.

Isolated and perched off the west coast of far north Sumatra, Simeulue boasts incredible waves, seriously unspoiled natural beauty and year-round good times.

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Back in 2005 an earthquake lifted the island’s west coast by almost two metres, creating brand new waves (virtually overnight). Pair that with a spot in the Doldrums (almost windless waters) and you’ve got some gooooood surfing. When you’re not surfing, kick back at one of the surf camps (like this one or this one!) or get yourself a pushie and explore the island on two-wheels. Yeewwww!

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PALAU SIKELING
Get boozy at a deserted island bar

Welcome to Neptune Bar, a desolate beach shack that sits empty for 362 days a year.

Sound boring? Not if you time your trip with the Neptune Reggata, a week-long sailing race that makes a pit stop at Palau Sikeling so hundreds of sailors can get rowdy at the deserted island bar. Boring, begone. There’s drinking to do.

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What can you expect from a visit to Neptune Bar at peak period? The very strong, much renowned Neptune Punch, for starters. Enough to knock out a few sailors, that’s for sure. But hey, we’re sure there will be a free yacht bed somewhere for you to bunk down on.

Click to JOIN THE REGATTA

BANDA ISLANDS
Take the Spice Route

Fascinated by early voyaging history? A trip to the Banda Islands will really float your boat.

This little archipelago of 10 islands was a must-stop on the old Spice Route thanks to Banda Besar and it’s huge, fragrant nutmeg plantation. Take a trip back in time at Benteng Hollandia, an incredible 1642 Dutch fortress (once the biggest in the East Indies) before it was ruined by an earthquake in 1743. Lucky for us, the views are still epic from atop the ruin.

More into outdoor pursuits? You can hike a still-active volcano, for starters. Or snorkel over coral-encrusted lava flow, if you get bored. How’s that for variety. STILL WANT MORE? Go check out the 300-year-old Chinese temple on Banda Neira. But you’ll have to go next door to the Chinese grocery store and ask for the keys. The temple is only, technically, open at Chinese New Year.

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WEST PAPUA
Learn to throw a spear at Baliem Festival

It doesn’t get more culturally immersive than a trek to remote Baliem Valley in West Papua’s central highlands where you can stay with local Dani villagers and witness the incredible annual tribal festival.

What happens at the festival? Oh you know, just a casual mock war. It’s a congregation of diverse tribes, a celebration of living history and continuing culture, and a heck of a travel experience. You can expect the battles to be accompanied by traditional Papuan music—played on an instrument made out of wood bark. And a lot of spear throwing, pig racing and dancing. Are you game?

Click I’M GAME