There’s a bit of a kerfuffle afoot over Amazon’s pricey Lord of the Rings show. The problem? People are angry it may feature some nudity. After word broke that the production is seeking “intimacy coordinators,” who will assist in staging scenes of unclad human (or, who knows, maybe Ent) flesh, a petition on Change.org, hoping to keep it family-friendly, blew up. But it turns out this isn’t the first time Tolkien’s masterwork was almost tarred with onscreen filth.
During an appearance on the newly all-IRL Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Dominic Monaghan and Billy Boyd — aka hobbits Merry and Pippin from the original, Peter Jackson-led trilogy — broke the news that they almost had to go buff in The Two Towers.
“Here’s the thing. There was almost nudity in the movies,” Boyd told Colbert after he asked about the petition. He continued:
“[Screenwriter and producer] Philippa Boyens…she wrote a scene, because we’d been doing some kind of gags and winding people up…[and] she said, ‘Oh, it’s a new scene we’re filming next week, with the Ents. When Merry and Pippin are up Treebeard, he gets afraid and shakes his branches, which makes you guys fall, and as you hit all the branches on the way down, by the time you hit the ground, you’re naked. And Merry turns to Pippin and says, ‘It’s cold, isn’t it?’ And Pippin says, ‘Hold me, Merry.’’
But at least one of them wasn’t against it. “I was kind of into it,” Monaghan said. “I have a really fantastic ass. I thought now is the time to get it out.”
Alas, not even the super-long Extended Cut of the series’ second part features the bare derrieres of Mssrs. Monaghan and Boyd, which evidently was never filmed. You can watch the two’s full Late Show appearance over here.
Praise be, we have almost reached the light at the end of the COVID-19 tunnel! As vaccinations continue, opportunities for international travel are looking more plausible than they have in over a year. While some borders remain closed to the United States, a slew of young travelers are flying south to Mexico, which is open to the U.S. under strict health screening protocols (with the international US-Mexico border seeming poised to open wide soon).
Tulum and Cabo San Lucas are well-known hotspots for young adventurers and are seeing travelers return in droves. But there’s another Mexican destination and longtime surf haven that’s we want to give shine to today… We’re talking about Sayulita — a beach town in the small West Coast state of Nayarit. A vibey, nicely paced beach and party paradise.
Directly along the Pacific Ocean, Sayulita stretches across an arch in the coastline. The vibrant and lively town is adorned with saturated colors on every building, streetcar, and beach umbrella in sight. Not to mention, the sea of colored flags that hang over the center of downtown like a whimsical jungle canopy. The beaches are plentiful and feel uncrowded to a large degree. The lush landscape just beyond the town is all palm trees and dense jungle.
Am I gushing? I’ve been to many places in my short 25 years, and this was easily one of my top 10 travel experiences. Is that assessment overly influenced by the fact that it was the first time I left the country in two years? Maybe so. My eagerness to hit the road (responsibly) post-COVID was massive. But I’m telling you: it was a wonderful trip.
For a complete 2021 guide to Sayulita – from where to stay, what to do, and how to best prepare for COVID-19 travel protocols – read on below.
PART I — What To Do
Via Chloe Caldwell
Sayulita offers sunshine and high temperatures year-round, so spending at least a few hours on the beach (per day) is a must. The main beach area is within walking distance of most hotels and downtown, making it easy to go back and forth if you forget your sunscreen. And trust me, even if you normally don’t burn, you need it. The sun is strong here. Literally, my skin was still peeling off like a snake for two weeks after my trip. Sorry for the graphic mental picture, but wear your SPF, okay?
Also make sure to pack some pesos in your wallet because there are always local vendors walking on the beach selling jewelry, hair-braiding, and trinkets to bring home as souvenirs. It’s a good idea to head to the beach on an empty stomach, as many of the seaside hotels offer lawn chairs and umbrellas to sit at as long as you order food or drinks. Get some guac in your stomach before downing a margarita because they don’t skimp on the tequila-to-lime juice ratio in Sayulita.
A short 10-minute walk into the neighborhood outside of downtown leads you to Playa Los Muertos. It’s another beautiful beach adjacent to a graveyard that’s filled with breathtaking memorials to honor those who have passed. I know, walking through a graveyard on vacation sounds a bit macabre. But it gives you insight into longstanding Mexican traditions and is a nice chance to reflect on the heritage of the place you’re visiting.
Lastly, surfing is a must in Sayulita and it’s a great spot to learn. There are a variety of waves — from beach breaks for beginners to rock-reef breaks for more advanced surfers. Rentals are available all along the beaches, as are lessons. Intermediate surfers will be happy with the board selection, too (there’s more than just foam beginner boards on offer).
Here’s what else to do during your stay:
Downtown Shopping
Via Chloe Caldwell
Once you get your sunbathing and beachside margarita (Or two. Okay, three.) checked off the to-do list, head to the vibrant downtown area. There are a plethora of shops and galleries along the palm tree-lined calles that sell artwork, pottery, clothing, and everything in between. With about 45 locally-owned shops, including Sayulita’s first boutique jewelry shop Sayulita Sol Jewelry, downtown offers a diverse collection of merchandise all within a four-block radius.
Whether you’re into one-of-a-kind paintings or looking to up your style game, you’re sure to find at least one shop to your liking.
If sunbathing and shopping doesn’t sound exhilarating to you, not to worry. Sayulita serves up a platter of activities that appeal to adventurer-seekers too. In town, you’ll easily find a variety of boat tour excursions available. One option takes you on a trip to a secret beach (literally, you have to swim through a cave to get to it — though IG popularity has decreased the “secret” aspect), called Marieta Island. Others take you snorkeling, fishing, and even whale watching.
If you’re someone who loves nature and animals, you’ll be blown away by the massive beauty of the whales that get only a few hundred feet from your boat. I may or may not have screamed several times due to the irrational fear of them hitting the bow, but it was totally worth it. The best times for whale watching are December through April, so make sure to plan your trip in this timeframe if it’s a must on your Sayulita bucket list.
Food Lover’s Paradise
Via Chloe Caldwell
You’re sure to work up an appetite after a long day of shopping and beach-going. Fortunately, there are a ton of delicious restaurants nearby to satisfy your cravings. ChocoBanana is a breakfast lover’s heaven, ideal after a long Saturday night at the beachside bars. For a classic coffee shop vibe, head across the way to the family-owned Café El Espresso. I went there almost every morning of my trip, and it was exactly the calming energy I needed before starting my day of adventuring. Plus, the almond milk latte and fruit platter did a great job of curing my tequila-induced hangovers.
Lunch is best enjoyed on the beach. Captain Pablo’s offers the ultimate casual cantina experience with an ocean view. There’s no shortage of guac or tacos on the menu. If you’re looking for a reason to dress up and head somewhere a bit more intimate, take a walk to Si Señor. With quiet seating overlooking the water, the dreamy ambiance and attentive waitstaff set you up for a romantic dinner.
Bar Hop Deep Into The Night
Via Chloe Caldwell
Despite the town’s laidback style, avid partiers will have no problem finding a place to dance and drink in Sayulita’s nightlife. You’ll hear music everywhere from the downtown bars to the beach. If you’re lucky, you’ll even find a live band or DJ in the sand after dark. This is where I thrived, although anyone who witnessed my dance moves might beg to differ.
Looking for a casual drink or two? Walk to Escondido Bar in the heart of downtown. It specializes in signature craft cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients. If you don’t want to miss a big game while on your trip, the colorful sports bar called Barrilito Sayulita is the perfect spot to watch. I can’t say I’d prefer to watch sports on TV when I can watch hot surfers on the beach, but… you do you. For an all-night rager, Coco’s Beach Club might be your best bet. Friday nights at Coco’s are a Cumbia-themed party with live music and dancing. This is also a nice spot to enjoy a cold one on the beach during the day.
PART II — Where to Stay
Just about anyone can find accommodations they’ll love in Sayulita. Properties range from hostels to resorts, each location offering its own unique character. If you want to be near all of the fun, then staying in or close to downtown is recommended. This makes everything walkable and convenient (if you stay in town and want a beach-centric trip, there’s no reason to rent a car — although car rentals in Mexico are famously affordable).
Travelers on a Budget
If you’re a young or solo traveler on a budget (hey, me too!), check out the Selina Hotel. It’s a hostel-style hotel with shared bunk quarters or individual rooms, which is what I stayed in. However, there are shared bathrooms on each floor, no matter what room style you go with. Bring flip-flops if you’re a germaphobe.
Selina Hotel offers group activities like yoga classes, surfing, and a common pool area, making it easy to stay active and meet other travelers throughout your stay. I loved getting a quick Vinyasa flow in the mornings to offset the nonstop damage I did on chips and guac. (Yes, I know I keep bringing up guacamole. I’m still thinking about it.) The best part is the property’s prime location in the heart of Sayulita, just steps from the beach and downtown.
Secluded Resort Life
Fun fact: Bachelor in Paradise filmed in Sayulita, Mexico. I know this because I will shamelessly admit that I’ve watched every season…and applied to the show (twice). If you want to live out your reality TV dreams, stay at the Playa Escondida hotel. This is also a great choice if you want something a little more secluded. It’s still only a short 15-minute walk from downtown, but you’ll have more privacy and it’s much quieter at night. So you can fall asleep to crashing waves instead of the bustling bar scene.
Beachside Living
Via Chloe Caldwell
If you want to stay directly by the water, book a room at Hotel Peix. The property has its own private bar and beach area, so you won’t need to go anywhere to put your feet in the sand. Plus, some rooms also come with a private balcony. This is an ideal hotel for surfers who plan on hitting the waves first thing every morning and want to see the break as they plan their day.
Getting There and Getting Around
Via Chloe Caldwell
Many COVID-19 restrictions are lifting and the world is slowly making its way back to “normal.” However, it’s still important to be safe and prepared when it comes to traveling. With international trips specifically, there are especially strict requirements for flying.
Travel Precautions and COVID-19 Tips
While it isn’t required to show a negative COVID-19 test to fly into Mexico from the U.S., it’s obviously a good idea to do anyway. Once you arrive in Mexico, you’ll have to fill out a COVID survey in order to exit customs and leave the airport. You can either print this out before your trip or fill it out online.
Important: You have to show proof of a negative COVID test to get back home to the U.S. Therefore, it’s a good idea to figure out your exact plan for testing before you leave. Some resorts will do instant testing for their guests, so make sure to ask about this before booking your stay. They will likely have a local health official come to perform the test, and you’ll get the results back in about an hour. There is also testing available at the airport, but this can take a while and risk you being late for your flight home.
Transportation to Sayulita
To get to Sayulita, you’ll first fly into Puerto Vallarta. The airport is less than an hour’s drive from Sayulita, and the one-lane road takes you through scenic jungle views. As mentioned, it’s best to take a cab versus renting a car for a trip like this because everything is within walking distance once you make it into town. Luckily, it’s super easy to find a cab right outside the airport. The cost is about $70 in U.S. currency.
Pro Tip: Don’t let any airport employees stop you on your way out. They’ll likely try to upsell your car ride with additional luxuries and pit stops along the way (I learned this the hard way). Head straight out the doors and opt for the cabs out front. If you do plan on venturing out of Sayulita, there are a ton of cab drivers lined up in the main downtown square that can take you wherever you need to go.
Cecily Strong clearly had a great time during the SNL season finale. It was the capper for a stressful year, which put the show’s 46th season in a number of unusual, even awkward positions. But they fought through it, and on the closer, Strong made sure to grace us with an all-timer rendition of her take on Fox News host Jeanine Pirro, whom she’s long depicted as a shouty, white-girl-drunk conspiracy theorist. (A bit of a stretch, of course.) It almost looked like Strong’s farewell to the character. Perhaps because, like colleague Pete Davidson, she’s not sure yet if she’s coming back for Season 47.
In an interview with ET Online, Strong — shilling for her forthcoming AppleTV+ comedy Schmigadoon!, in which she stars opposite Keegan-Michael Key — couldn’t help but be a little wishy-washy when asked if she’ll be back for more. “I’ll be thrilled if I go back, I’ll be thrilled if that was my last show,” she replid. “I feel good either way.”
She added that “things are a bit more up in the air and I’m OK with that.” (Davidson’s response when asked the same thing was almost verbatim: He, too, was “up in the air.”) She suggested that the pandemic had taught her to be open-minded. “My lesson from last year is sort of see what happens.”
Again, if her last hurrah on the show, where she’s resided since 2012, was flinging red wine at Colin Jost while dunking herself in a vat of the tasty beverage, then she went out with a bang. But if she’s also cool giving us still more Judge Jeanine, that would also be acceptable.
Lager and ale are the two broadest beer definitions in all of brewdom. Beneath each of those umbrella terms, you’ll find dozens (maybe hundreds) of lager styles and ale styles derived from brewing traditions developed all over the world. We’re going to focus on lagers today, including pale lagers (which are actually a sub-style of pilsners, a member of the lager family).
Pilsner was born in the 1800s in the Bohemian town of Plzeň thanks to the work of the Bavarian brewer Josef Groll. Groll was instrumental in inventing the pale lager — specifically Pilsner Urquell — that eventually took the world by storm, helping make lagers the most drunk beers in the world, by far. Sorry IPA stans: the numbers aren’t even close.
To help you find a good lager (including pilsners and pale lagers!) to drink this summer, we’re asking some bartending pros. Hopefully, their recommendations will help you fill your coolers and fridges this summer with tasty suds to set you up for the season. You can click on the prices to try each of these yourself (that is if you haven’t already).
Many pilsners fall flat, but Mama’s Little Yella Pils does not disappoint with notes of grass, lemon, and a clean dry finish. It is the perfect beer for a bright sunny day no matter what time of year. Plus, you got to love the clever name.
Bierstadt Lagerhaus Helles
Bierstadt
Candace Marie Peterson, beertender at Lone Tree Brewing in Lone Tree, Colorado
You can’t answer a question about lagers without showing love to Bierstadt Lagerhaus. Most people will talk up their Slow Pour Pils, which is delicious. But for me, their Helles is the shining star. It’s a perfectly balanced, beautiful golden lager with a slight sweetness and just enough hops to have you craving more. I recommend getting a boot of it when there.
Do I dare say Coors Banquet? Growing up in Colorado, it’s my staple go-to when I want something light, easy, and refreshing or while enjoying a Rockies game.
If I’m drinking a lager or pilsner, I pour one in particular. Krombacher Pils is tradition in a bottle. It’s light, crisp, and has a hint of florals on the finish.
I can’t really think of anything that fits the bill better than Weihenstephaner’s lager. That answer isn’t likely to be a revelation to anyone since Wiehenstephaner is the world’s oldest brewery. Regardless, I think their staying power speaks for itself. They do the best demonstrations of every Bavarian style. Drinking any of their beers is like eating a perfectly cooked steak: the quality is from its sourcing and the practiced care with which it’s handled.
Stone Buenaveza
Stone
Cari Hah, formerly bar manager at Café Alcove in Loa Angeles
My pick is Stone Buenaveza. This is a classic Mexican style lager that is really refreshing, light, and crisp. It has a body without being heavy with a really nice acidity that makes it entirely quaffable all year round.
Busch Beer
Busch
Andy Printy, beverage director at Chao Baan in St. Louis
My favorite classic lager has to be a Busch 16-ounce tallboy. It’s crisp, light, and full-bodied. There has nary been a scenario, venue, or season where this workhorse lager isn’t a very appropriate choice.
Pilsener Urquell is a beautiful golden pilsener that is still brewed in its country of origin in the traditional way. You can drink this beer all year round with food or friends, but it’s especially refreshing in summer. It always tastes good, features fresh hops, a creamy texture, and a dry finish, which is enough to keep your mouth a little bit dry, but with a lingering freshness.
I’m not much of a lager drinker, but the Classic Easy Drinkin’ lager by Victory is pretty darn good. It’s 4.8 percent alcohol, well-balanced, and refreshing.
Scrimshaw Pilsner from North Coast Brewing Company is the lighthouse for the pilsner. The European pilsner itself is the quintessential beer for drinkability, striking the perfect balance of weight — not too heavy or light. It’s liquid bread. An introduction of sweetness from the malts is kept in check by those classic European hops. Drink it all year long. Support your local breweries and then drink a Scrimshaw to remind yourself how your local beer scene is doing.
Stella Artois is well known for its freshness. It also provides a crisp and clean finish that makes it really easy to drink no matter the occasion or the season.
What’s better than a beer after a long day or work? Jack’s Abby literally created a beer you’re supposed to crack open when your “shift” ends. Made with Bavarian malts and hops, it’s light, crisp, and perfect for the end of a long, hot summer day.
As a Drizly affiliate, Uproxx may receive a commission pursuant to certain items on this list.
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