Category Archives: TRAVELING

Most Unusual Foods Around the World

Travelling around the world is something that a lot of people enjoy. Some do it to unwind and sunbathe on tropical beaches, some love to simply meet and experience different cultures, or because they are thrill-seekers. But it’s also worth mentioning that one of the great joys of travelling lies in trying out different cuisines. So if you fancy yourself a gourmet traveller stick around, we will be going over some of the most unusual meals around the world.   

Pig’s Blood Cake

This is a popular street food sold in Taiwan, and according to some experts, it can help our lungs heal smog damage. It’s sold like ice cream on a stick and it’s made from rice and of course pig blood.

It looks delicious, like a cake on a stick, so it was probably more helpful not to tell you what exactly it is. 

Pigeon

Many regard pigeons as rats with wings, as this is a really dirty street animal. But in France, it is an expensive dish, served at most exquisite restaurants and supposedly delicious. This really makes you wonder, how come everyone is not preparing this dish since there is no shortage of filthy pigeons in Europe. 

Grasshopper

Grasshoppers are pretty much standard food in Uganda, and they are even eaten raw. They are caught during the rainy season, and you can buy ones with and without wings, and cook them. It’s really hard to imagine eating a raw grasshopper and finding it delicious unless you are Bear Grylls or a big fan of the Lion King. Hakuna Matata, right? 

Donkey

Donkey meat is pretty standard in Italy, and you can order it in any bar. It’s sliced and served similar to prosciutto, and it does have a unique taste. You probably wouldn’t guess that it’s donkey meat when you try it. 

Live Octopus

Unlike calamari or squid that is a common, delicious and most importantly dead, live octopus is served while it’s still alive and wiggling. It’s also not one of those meals that you can savour and enjoy by taking your time, as chefs in South Korea suggest that you need to eat it quickly. This is by far the most unusual thing, not because octopi are tasty but because you have to kill it yourself while eating it. The whole idea behind restaurants and supermarkets is that people don’t have to kill the animals themselves. 

Ostrich 

Ostrich meat is becoming increasingly popular, as it has lower cholesterol and is healthier compared to other meat. You can use it to make burgers, or use the eggs for an omelette. It’s very common in South Africa and you’ll see it pop up on menus frequently. 

Interesting Indonesian Traditions

Every culture around the world has some fascinating traditions. We often take our customs for granted, as we follow them every year. However, when we look at a different culture on the other side of the world, we are amazed by how different they are. 

If you’re planning to visit Indonesia, prepare to witness some exciting and unique traditions. Each of them is memorable in its way. Here’s what you can come across.

Debus

Many cultures express their belief in God in different ways. Different traditions symbolise the degree of faith people have. Debus is one of such traditions, but it’s on the extreme side. People pierce their mouths, stab themselves, chew glass and walk through fire to prove that their faith in God keeps them safe.

Therefore, don’t get alarmed if you come across people with pierced cheeks walking down the road. It’s a part of the local tradition throughout Indonesia.

Ma’Nene

Many people will find this annual tradition in Tana Toraja more than interesting. During the ceremony, the deceased are symbolically brought back to life. They are taken out from their graves for a walk. According to the local tradition, the deceased never stop living. So every year, close family members take their bodies home, where they bathe and dress them before a walk throughout the village.

Once the ceremony is complete, the deceased are taken back to their graves until the next exhumation.

Metatah

An old Bali tradition Metatah is a right of passage ceremony that that Hindu Balinese undertake. It’s a teeth-cutting process. While it sounds crazy, it’s only a two-millimetre cut that doesn’t hurt. The cut teeth are part of an offering during a prayer. The participant also takes spicy, salty, sweet, bitter, sour and astringent.

The tasting of these tastes is symbolic, as they represent anger, obedience, wisdom, happiness, and toughness.

Burning of the Last Ship

The tradition of burning the last ship is a part of the Bakar Tongkang Festival. It celebrates the bravery of Chinese immigrants who burned down their ship after leaving the Fujian province. The act of burning the last ship showed their resolve to never return to their hometown.

The replica of the ship weighs hundreds of pounds, and the burning ceremony is the highlight of the whole festival. The ceremony is an important reminder for modern generations to respect the determination of their ancestors.

Kebo-Keboan

Paying respect to deities is common in every culture around the world. The rituals differ significantly, but the goal is the same — showing respect towards gods. Whenever Javanese have a Suro or Muharram month, their men smear themselves in oil and charcoal to imitate the water buffalos.

They roam the streets to call down the rain, so the next season brings more crops for the local residents.

Fahombo

Fahombo is a physically demanding ritual performed on Sumatra Island. The origin of the ritual goes back to the aggressive tribal wars dating back centuries. Even though there are no conflicts now, the act of leaping over the enemies’ defence fort has become an annual tradition. It represents maturity in men as they reach adulthood.

The participant runs towards the two-metre stone wall and leaps over it. This tradition is significant as it symbolises the maturity of the participant.

What You Need to Know Before Visiting Asia

Asia is a remarkable part of the world that millions of travellers visit every year. The eastern culture is vibrant with numerous traditions. Whether we’re talking about China, Myanmar, Cambodia, Thailand or Vietnam, there’s plenty to see and experience. However, before you pack your bags, there are several important things to consider.

Health First

Many travellers focus on planning the trip and seeing which sites they’ll visit, but the first step should be your health and safety. Going to the other side of the world is a big change for your body. You need to take all the necessary measures to prepare yourself for the local conditions. While the locals are used to the presence of particular viruses and diseases, your body is not. That’s why it’s essential to get all the necessary shots before your start your journey.

Make sure that you begin the process months before you go to Asia. The local pharmacy will need to check the vaccine supplies, and it takes time for your body to develop the antibodies. Some of the shots you should get include:

• Hepatitis A, B, Typhoid Vaccine
• Tetanus, polio and diphtheria Vaccine
• Rabies and Encephalitis Vaccine
• Yellow Fever and Malaria Vaccine

Some of these are related to particular parts of Asia. If you’re not visiting them, you won’t need to take all of the abovementioned shots. Check the requirements with your local doctor.

Research and Plan

After learning which shots you’ll have to take, use the time to research your destinations. Create a detailed plan of sights you’re planning to visit. That will be the foundation of your travel plans. You can then book accommodation and plan how much time each of these destinations is going to take. After the essentials are out of the way, it’s time to research the following:

• Travel visas
• Travel insurance
• Getting the local currency
• Prepare a map

Once you figure out all these details, there’s more to learn about the countries. Head over to online publications that specialise in travel and understand more about the culture. Knowing some customs will keep you from accidentally offending someone. Additionally, you’ll find out which are the perfect places for eating out, what are the local scams to avoid and what are some other local attractions to explore.

Remember to always have cash on you, as some rural parts of Asia don’t have ATMs. Get ready to haggle, as the locals usually overcharge foreigners.

Check the Weather

The weather in Asia can be quite tricky. It’s best to run a thorough check for the period of your stay. Use separate weather sources to get the most realistic idea of what it’s going to look like. There’s an important rule to follow — avoid the monsoon season. It lasts from June to October. During this period, the weather quickly changes and can get wet and windy.

Travelling outside this period is better for all travellers, as the chance of bad weather is lower.

3 Best European Destinations for Mountain Lovers

If you’ve ever been to Europe you know that if there is something that it doesn’t lack it’s the mountains. The entire continent is filled with beautiful mountain ranges. And for every mountain lover, Europe is the place to be if you want to enjoy different outdoor activities. 

These amazing mountain sites will fascinate even those who prefer indoor activities. Additionally, they offer plenty of different activities that include more than just climbing.  So, here are the best European destinations for mountain lovers that need to end up on your travel list.

Switzerland 

No matter if you live in Europe or anywhere else in the world, the first country that pops into one’s mind when thinking about breathtaking mountains is Switzerland. The main reason why this is so is because of Switzerland’s position in Europe. This country is surrounded by the amazing Alps, and it has the biggest glaciers and some of the greatest peaks in Europe that go up to 4000 meters in height. Moreover, Switzerland is the country with the most picturesque villages and fascinating lakes. 

The best site for every mountain fan is Brienzer Rothorn Railway. All visitors can hop on the steam locomotive and go to the summit station at 2244 meters of height. Moreover, the train will pass through interesting tunnels and stunning loops. So, this activity is only reserved for those who are not afraid of heights. And if you miss hiking, there is no need to worry. There is a hiking trail that you can use which stretches between stations.

Austria

If you liked Switzerland, then you will surely love Austria. This is the land of fantastic beer, amazing food, picturesque villages, and of course, gorgeous mountains. Many tourists visit Austria simply because of the fairytale-like scenery. However, they decide to return due to the amazing experience that awaits every visitor.

The most popular destinations include Tyrol and Hallstatt. If you opt for Tyrol you will be able to do some hiking, cycling, and even rock climbing. This is a very popular touristic destination with plenty of scenic nature and outdoor activities. Moreover, the entire area is surrounded by amazing lakes like Lake Caldaro and Lake Braies. And when it comes to Hallstatt, you can visit this place for a real-life fairytale experience. The charming village situated next to Hallstatter lake is ideal for long, peaceful walks. Also, if you are a history fan, then this place will thrill you with the oldest salt mine in the region. Additionally, you can engage in snowboarding or skiing if you decide to visit in the winter. 

Italy

If by any chance you are more interested in places that are ideal for summer mountain climbing, then Italy is just what you need. A part of the Alp mountain range is also located in Italy, and it stands as one of the most popular hiking locations among local mountain fans. Furthermore, this area of Italy is filled with cute villages, amazing views, and interesting traditions. You can start the day by hiking on any of the amazing trails and taking photographs. And afterwards, you can look forward to incredible meals in an equally incredible environment. What sets the Italian mountain area apart from all others is the peace and quiet that you will get to enjoy if you choose to visit this country. 

Furthermore, mountain fans who are looking for the usual outdoor excitement will discover that the Italian part of the Alps, or the Dolomites,  is ideal for climbers, base jumpers, and skiers. With its numerous peaks, you will have plenty of different options for your summer mountain adventure. 

4 Best Suitcases for Seasoned Travelers

When you’re often travelling, one of the most important things to think about is the suitcase. Picking the suitable materials and weight of your luggage can greatly impact your travelling experiences. The goal is to choose a compact and light suitcase, but at the same time has enough space for all your necessities.

Lightweight luggage pieces usually vary from 4 to 10 pounds. The lighter, the better. One of the things that affect luggage’s durability is the suitcase fabric. Polyester is a durable material, but make sure to opt for a suitcase with an aluminium frame. That combination offers great endurance while being light.

AmazonBasics

The giant company has ventured into the production of a broad range of merchandise. The company meticulously picks niches where it knows it can deliver excellent results. One of them is the suitcase lineup that’s very affordable, light and practical. Aside from suitcases and bags, you’ll find bags and numerous other travel accessories available. Their sturdy suitcases are rollable and easy to handle. You can use them on your travel adventures and count on their reliability no matter where you are.

Away

Away prides its innovation in every suitcase they make. The company invests heavily in unique designs, superior materials, and modern products. You’ll find many of the suitcases equipped with their rechargeable batteries ready to charge your devices on the go. That’s a convenient feature that many passionate travellers will appreciate.

Away’s suitcases are incredibly durable and affordable. That makes them a great companion for anyone on the go.

Eagle Creek

Are you looking for a brand that can provide you with any kind of luggage you could need? Eagle Creek has it all. The brand focuses on true adventurers who like to set out on hiking and trekking journeys. Their suitcases, backpacks and other luggage types are highly durable and perfect for all weather conditions.

If you’re planning a hike at your destination, consider picking this brand.

Hartmann

Hartmann is a distinctive suitcase maker which uses durable materials in its products. The American retro style is very appealing, but the most important part is the level of durability of the Hartmann brand. It’s no wonder their products come with a 10-year warranty.

After being in business for over 140 years, the brand has perfected the art of making high-quality suitcases. If you deeply care about style when you’re travelling, you should consider using Hartmann. You’ll find plenty of suitcases with premium materials.

5 Apps You Need in a Foreign Country

While some of us experience joy while playing games, reading books or even reading about betfair promo details, millions of people pack their cases in search of the thrill of visiting another country. It’s a fun activity that makes people happy. They get to explore different cultures, learn new traditions and create memorable moments that’ll always stay with them.

The only challenge with travelling to a foreign country is the language barrier. Even though you can find people who understand the language you speak perfectly, it’s a rare commodity. It is, however, possible to rely on technology and bridge the majority of those gaps. Here are a couple of useful apps that’ll make your travelling experience even better.

Google Maps

As you might have already guessed, Google Maps is your best pick for a map app. It is rich with data about the local landmarks, but more importantly, it’s consistently getting updates about street changes. That’s extremely important, as you can rest assured that the map you’re following is 99.99% correct.

The feature you’ll appreciate the most is the ability to select a part of the map you’d like to download to your phone. Then, you won’t need any internet as all the data will already be on your phone. Simply pick an area you would like to download the map for and get it ready before beginning your journey.

Goole Translate

Google Maps will help you navigate more quickly, but there’s more. Google Translate will help you easily communicate with the locals. All you have to do is enter what you want to say, and the app will translate it and pronounce it in the other language. If the pronunciation is not available, the locals can still read what you’re saying.

You can ask for directions, order food or even start a conversation knowing that they’ll understand you. Make sure to download the translations for the language of your choice so that you can use the app offline.

Flyright

Use Flyright to get the essential details about your destination before you get on the plane. For example, suppose you’re planning to travel to Beijing. In that case, all you have to enter is the city name, and the app will immediately display visa requirements, any vaccinations requirements, and the currency exchange rates. You can download the results so you can access all the data offline. It’s a helpful app that helps you prepare better for the next visit to the country of your dreams.

Coincalc

Coincalc will prevent you from overpaying for goods and services in a foreign country. It converts your funds to another currency. That way, you always know that you’re paying the right price for something. Coincalc is an excellent choice, as it supports a vast number of currencies. There’s also the support for cryptocurrencies, but it’s only available for premium users.

Rome2rio

Are you looking for the quickest and cheapest way to get to a destination? Rome2rio will help you pick the best option. It’s a handy app that’ll help you choose the best route for your next trip. It offers buses, trains, ferries and any other means of transportation available.

How To Pack for Your Vacation: Things You Mustn’t Forget

One of the most fun things about vacation is picking the next destination and, of course, finally arriving there. However, there are some not-so-fun activities that you need to do to get to your desired destination. And one of them includes packing. 

There are a lot of people who hate to pack. And one of the reasons why this is so is because they are afraid that there will be something they will forget to put in their suitcase. But, there is something that most new travellers learn over time, and that is that there are things you need and things that you can get even though you forget all about them. So the most important thing is to relax and stop stressing about every little detail. In order to make packing easier for you, we have made a list of all the things that you need to have on you no matter where you are going.

Passport and ID

One of the most important things that you need to bring with you, especially if you are travelling to a foreign country, is your passport. No matter if you are travelling by plane or by car, you will need your passport and ID to cross the border. So, if you want to save yourself from the trouble of going back home or missing your flight this is the first item that you need to make sure is in your luggage. 

Phone and Charger

Nowadays, we use our smartphones for many different things. To begin with, we use them to communicate with our friends and family. Then, with the help of various apps, we can use our smartphones to find a certain location, make a purchase, translate something into almost any language in the world, and more. And that is why it’s important to always have your smartphone with you when you travel. Moreover, if your trip is long it’s very likely that your phone battery can die. Therefore, you will need your charger to always be with you on your trip so you wouldn’t be left without a way to call someone when you arrive at your destination. 

Money

After packing your bag, you must remember that even if you forgot to bring something you can buy it when you arrive at your travel destination. And this is why you must bring your credit cards or cash no matter where you are going. Of course, if you bring cash, it’s wise to find an exchange office as soon as you arrive, since you will need the currency used in the country that you are visiting.