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Prescott’s Best Bites

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Growing up in this seemingly inconspicuous town, our Editor in Chief, Clare Hancock, was exposed to many different types of authentic cuisines including Indian, Thai, Italian, German, Mexican, Spanish, all-American, and more. Believe it or not, Prescott is a haven for good food and the competition grows more fierce every year. These are the most delicious bites of Prescott we’ve found during our travels.

Coffee and Breakfast

Pangaea Bakery
Need something quick and delicious? Pangaea Bakery has been serving fresh baked pastries, breads, sweet treats and sandwiches for as long as Clare can remember and their fresh roasted coffee is impossible to ignore. Locals across Prescott visit weekly for a coffee and a loaf of Pangaea’s famous bread. From San Francisco sourdough to asiago cheese and roasted red pepper to cinnamon raisin oatmeal to roasted garlic to fig walnut, every loaf of bread is made with love and top-notch ingredients. Hungry for a sandwich? Try a grilled brie and fig sandwich, Southwest ham and cheese or the Baba Gone Vegan (baba ghanoush, roasted red peppers, oven roasted tomatoes, caramelized onions, lettuce, and goat cheese). Whether you are in the mood for something sweet or you are more of a savory kind of person, you really can’t go wrong at Pangaea.

Cuppers
Need a coffee house that can accommodate a big group of friends? Want to sit outside with a cup of coffee and your pup? Looking for a place that will keep the kids entertained while you chat with friends? Cuppers has everything you are looking for as well as good coffee and tea and a variety of tasty snacks. This deceptively large coffee house has an outdoor patio, several tables inside and a room where groups can convene. Cuppers is low-key, very casual and is a favorite local hangout. If you are staying at the Hotel Vendome next door, Cuppers is the optimal place to get a quick bite or enjoy a few leisurely hours.

Brunch and Lunch


Bistro St. Michael
St. Michael’s has always had a special place in the hearts of many Prescottonians. As one of the oldest buildings on Whiskey Row, it has seen hundreds of thousands of visitors go through its hotel and bistro doors. When Clare first moved to Prescott with her parents, the first place they stayed was Hotel St. Michael. The beds were small and lumpy and Clare managed to roll off the mattress a few times during the first night. However, memories of the historic building and the numerous breakfasts shared in the bistro over the years were some of the best memories of her childhood. The bistro is a beautiful place to enjoy breakfast. If you are an eggs benedict fan, this is where you need to go, as we haven’t had anything quite as good anywhere else. Look for the bullet holes in the brick walls that were made by rowdy cowboys back in the day.


Bill’s Pizza
After an exciting morning of combing through art booths stationed around Prescott’s courthouse and perusing the different antique shops nearby, one of the best places to satisfy a hungry stomach is Bill’s Pizza. With an extensive menu and several unique topping combinations, Bill’s has something for everyone. You can grab a quick pre-made slice if you are in a hurry, or sit down for a fresh-out-of-the-oven pie. If you’re looking for a lighter lunch, a medium pizza is the perfect size to share with friends. Or, if those antiques really stirred up your appetite, you can demolish it all on your own. A few of our favorite combinations are T-lo’s Pizza (olive oil and garlic sauce, mozzarella cheese, hot Italian sausage, onions, bell peppers, pine nuts, roasted garlic, and fresh basil), Christine’s Rocker (oil and garlic, mozzarella cheese, sicilian sausage, caramelized onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, pepperoni, and black olive), and Blue Moon (olive oil and garlic sauce, blue cheese, caramelized onions, toasted walnuts, and mozzarella cheese).


Prescott Brewing Company
The Prescott Brewing Company, known around town as PBC, is one of those places that every visitor has to try and inevitably fall in love with. Clare has been eating their fish and chips, black bean avocado burgers, steamed blue mussels, brew poo platters, and apple crisp ala modes since the impressionable age of six and she can say with certainty that there is something for every palate. There is even a beer for every palate and you can find your favorite with PBC’s sampler.

If you are an IPA fan, check out the Prescott Pale Ale and the Ponderosa IPA, which kicks you in the mouth and leaves a bitter finish. More of a light beer drinker? Their Pinon Light was the first to earn a thumbs up from us (dark beer drinkers). It’s smooth, refreshing, flavorful, easy to drink, and pairs wonderfully with peppery beer-battered fried pickles. Other pale ales to try are Lodgepole Light and Liquid Amber (delightful alongside PBC’s rich and creamy macaroni and cheese). Ordering the Settler’s Pot Pie? You’ll need a Petrified Porter to accompany that masterpiece. If you’re up for an adventure, try the Funkendunkel, a cardamom spice infused light beer that is quite funky, but in a good way. Still hungry for dessert? The Achocolypse is an experience all itself. Oatmeal, chocolate, espresso, delicious. However, if a liquid dessert isn’t going to quite cut it, have everyone at the table indulge in a Bodacious Brownie Sundae, a warm chocolate pecan brownie topped with vanilla ice cream and chocolate whiskey sauce.

Dinner


Bin 239
If you are a wine and cheese connoisseur, head to Bin 239 where the wine is plentiful and the dishes are divine. The atmosphere is comfortable yet stylish with places to sit at the wine bar (where you can watch the firing of brick oven pizzas), the dining area, couches situated around a warm fire, or you can dine outside in their beautiful outdoor garden during the summer. Start your experience with the baked brie, a healthy circle of brie baked in the brick oven in a cast iron skillet amidst honeyed pecans. Served with warm bread and thinly sliced apples, this dish is always the best way to start the night. Anything else you order from there will satisfy your need for something delicious and memorable. Bin 239 has been the go-to place for holidays and special events for several years and they have never faltered.


El Gato Azul
When you are in the mood for something light and colorful El Gato Azul is sure to satisfy your cravings. Inspired by the Spanish tradition of pairing tapas with alcoholic drinks, the chefs at El Gato Azul work to create fresh new seasonal dishes designed to accompany cocktails such as prickly pear mojitos and red wine sangrias. Tapas are always better when shared with friends and family, that’s why El Gato serves them on small plates in the center of the table. Between three of us we enjoyed ceviche, cucumber salad, fried goat cheese, marinated mushrooms, chickpeas and chorizo, posole, and jammin’ chicken, just a small sampling of the extensive menu. Sharing stories over live jazz music, we devoured each plate. When seated outside in El Gato’s shade garden next to Oak Creek live music can easily be enjoyed. Inside, the open kitchen will send whiffs of garlic, saffron, honey, and seared meats through the dining area. The restaurant is small, so be sure to reserve a table.

Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal. Just typing the name makes our stomachs growl and our mouths water. For several years, this authentic Indian restaurant was located outside of town, but in recent years, the owners were able to move to a prime location, just a few steps from Whiskey Row. Now, locals and travelers alike can walk to the Taj Mahal and sample exotic cocktails, naan, grilled meats, vindaloo, saag, masala, and much more while listening to live music both inside and out (dogs are allowed on the outside dining patios, so be sure not to leave your puppy behind). Every dish is a traditional recipe passed down through generations and everything on the menu is free of gluten and MSG.

The best way to introduce yourself to the Taj Mahal is to go on a Wednesday night, vegetarian buffet night. A dozen mouthwatering dishes are put on display and vanish within minutes as everyone clamors to get a heaping spoonful of each. Don’t worry, the chef rarely lets a tray sit empty. Start the meal off with a mind-blasting beverage like a mango lassi (non-alcoholic mango and yogurt drink), The Peacock (Tuaca liqueur, lime, ginger ale. Like a dark and stormy with a kick) or the Royal Honey (lots of honey, whiskey, and amaretto. All kinds of yum). Garlic naan is our favorite kind of naan especially when ginger sauce, mint chutney, plum sauce, and pumpkin chutney are involved. If you don’t know what your favorite naan is, order a naan sampler that includes cheese, garlic and onion versions. The tandoori mixed grill is also a must-try. With fish, lamb, chicken, jumbo shrimp, pork, onions, and peppers grilled together with spices in an authentic tandoori oven, this dish is guaranteed to make everyone at the table swoon. If you can’t make it on a Wednesday, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. During our last visit, we ordered the chicken vindaloo (tangy dark orange sauce poured over cooked potatoes and chicken) and saag paneer (cooked spinach mixed with an incredible blend of spices and pieces of spongy farmer’s cheese. it might not sound appetizing but this is one of our favorite items on the menu). End the night with a scoop of mango ice cream, fried dough balls covered in honey or vanilla bean rice pudding.

Dessert

Goodies Sweet Shop

Believe it or not, handmade ice cream is not easy to find in this little town. In recent years, Prescott has gotten a few self-serve frozen yogurt shops, but Goodies Sweet Shop in downtown Prescott has always come through for us. This last visit, we tried the hazelnut and salted caramel flavors and they satisfied our hankering for something rich and creamy.

Judging from other online reviews, it looks like Goodies hasn’t always been a favorite. Just know that ice cream is their specialty and their small space doesn’t allow for long visits. We suggest filling a cone with one of their delicious flavors and enjoying it while walking around Prescott’s beautiful courthouse across the street.

If ice cream isn’t your dessert of choice, walk into The Raven, Prescott Brewing Company, Gurley Street Grill, or Firehouse Kitchen and ask for a dessert menu. You won’t be disappointed.

Anytime

The Raven

Cold watermelon soup with cucumber and dill. That was what was on the menu the last time we visited The Raven. Every vibrant spoonful was a delightful reward for trying something new. If you are looking for freshly roasted coffee, a calm atmosphere, free WiFi, tasty food made with fresh, local, organic ingredients, live entertainment, creative cocktails, local artwork, or a space to socialize, The Raven is where you want to be. With their neo-rustic decor, comfortable furniture and a large collection of paintings and sculptures from Prescott artists, The Raven has a great setting to stay and enjoy dishes from their varied menu. This community favorite is known for its creative and thoughtful menu items. One of the first times Clare ate here, she ordered a slice of amaretto bread pudding with fresh raspberry puree. “It was as if the taste buds on my tongue had found the love of their life. The chatter from friends faded to the background and every bit of my attention was focused on the artwork in front of me.” Warm spongy layers of bread soaked in amaretto turned to silk on her tongue and each bite finished with a whisp of raspberry tang and sweetness.

Side Trip

Spice Traveler

The Spice Traveler is by far our favorite place to shop in downtown. Located on the second floor of Bashford Courts, this little haven of spices is where you will find anyone who loves to cook. Smoked black pepper. Harissa spice. Green whole cardamom. Fresh lavender. Whole anise stars. Galangal root. Black truffle sea salt. Egyptian basil. Specialty rubs and spice mixtures for every style of cuisine. You will find just about any spice you want and if the shop doesn’t have it, they will find it and order it for you. Each kind of spice has its own open jar that is free for everyone to smell and salivate over. Apart from a spice market in Kerala, India, it doesn’t get much more fresh than this. Treat your inner chef and stop by The Spice Traveler.

Next Visit

Soldi Back Alley Bistro

We didn’t get a chance to try this little food cart, but we heard wonderful things about it. Fresh food made from seasonal organic ingredients. Each dish that has been tried has been raved about. We can’t wait to taste-test this little bistro on our next trip to Prescott.

How to Adapt to Life in Sydney?

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Sydney Australia

Adapting to life in Sydney, a sprawling metropolis of more than 4.84 million people, especially if you are coming from a small town can be pretty daunting. You rarely know anyone, you often get lost, the cost of living is higher… All in all, the future looks bleak. In order to adjust to living in Sydney relatively painlessly, you need a plan.

Find your way around

Start with Google maps as you can use them on any device you have. Before you come to Sydney, study the map, including all the major locations and the neighbourhood around your destination. In case you do not have either Internet data or Wi-Fi available, enable offline maps in the Google map app. And, just in case, buy a printed map, you can find at bus/train station.

Additionally, consider a city tour, not so much to see tourist attractions, but to help you orient yourself. You can opt for The Sydney and Bondi Explorer offering 24h and 48h tickets, or a 90-minute tour if you prefer to stay on the bus the whole time. MyMulti DayPass, an all-in-one ticket giving you unlimited travel all day long is also available. It can be used for trains, buses, harbour city ferries and light rail services.

Budgeting

The cost of living in Sydney is high, so make sure you have a monthly budget plan. Your budget should cover accommodation, food, transport, clothing, entertainment, domestic travel, telephone and incidental costs. Taking into account the cost of living index, do some maths to familiarize yourself with an approximate budget.

Accommodation

Assuming you will consider renting during the first months, do know that properties in Sydney are advertised a few weeks before they become available. In addition, most of the rentals are unfurnished and if they are furnished, they are usually flats, not family-size homes. You can start looking for accommodation by hiring a real estate agent (Our Properties, Real Estate, Domain, etc.), or through newspapers. The rent is usually paid fortnightly, or monthly. The average rent is $250 per week, or $1,083 a month.

Some of the popular inner suburbs for students and young professionals are Randwick, Newtown and Redfern, while the western suburbs are usually chosen by families. The eastern suburbs around Double Bay and northern beach suburbs are the most expensive.

Transport

Sydney’s public transport system includes Sydney Trains, NSW TrainLink, Sydney Buses, Light rail, Harbour City Ferries and taxis. You can use Sydney Trains between the northern, southern and western suburbs and they live from Central, Museum, St James, Town Hall, Wynyard, Circular Quay, Martin Place and Kings Cross Stations, while the trains to the eastern suburbs leave from Martin Place Station. Sydney Buses and Light rail lines also travel through the city, while the train network operates beyond the city.

Even though Sydney offers an extensive and comprehensive public transport system, most people moving to Sydney find it useful to have a car. “Having a driver’s licence is very helpful since you have the freedom to explore and you can rent a car at a reasonable price”, say a driving school from Richmond. For example, visit VroomVroomVroom, where you can find information on the price of different car rentals.

These are only some of the recommendations we can give you. Remember that you should explore the city whenever you can as this is the best way to adapt to a new lifestyle. Many experience culture shock even though they stay within the same country. Fortunately, it is a transitional phase. Finally, try to meet new people by joining in clubs, organizations, or sports teams. Knowing you have a friend in a big city is a great consolation.

Destination Blackpool

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Ahabu Phillip
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Blackpool is an often overlooked seaside holiday destination in England’s north-west. After being industrialised in the 1800s, Blackpool became a top holiday spot for Britons.

Because of the increased opportunities for people to travel overseas, Blackpool has become a forgotten oasis of family fun and tourism, with many attractions. It has an air of carnivale about it, its Victorian roots of circuses, fortune-telling and rides by the pier have never really left it. It’s not uncommon to see someone enjoying a donkey ride on the beach.

Credit: Laura Reynolds
Credit: Laura Reynolds http://www-archive.theyorker.co.uk/lifestyle/getaway/11589-summer-day-trips-blackpool-pleasure

It’s like an eerie but lively step back in time for some old-fashioned family fun (and not-so family-friendly fun with its shows and cabarets). Its seven-mile beach is full of golden sand, fun and fairy floss, and is the perfect place to enjoy a classic British fish and chips by the sea.

It boasts the UK’s largest indoor waterpark, The Sandcastle. And its well-renowned theme park ‘Pleasure Beach’ won number one placing on TripAdvisor’s 2014 ‘Top 10 Amusement Parks in the UK’ with the tallest and fastest rollercoaster ‘The Big One’ in the United Kingdom. It stands at an impressive 235ft and is NOT for the faint of heart!

http://northoceanhotel.com/
http://northoceanhotel.com/

Other attractions include the iconic Blackpool Tower, which has a circus, a Jungle Jims for the kids, a dungeon tour, and spectacular views of the coastline and beach from the Blackpool Eye.

If you happen to be visiting in autumn, The Blackpool Illuminations is an annual light festival which lights up the town.

Machighlander @ Flickr.com / https://www.flickr.com/photos/machighlander/4012282958
Machighlander @ Flickr.com / https://www.flickr.com/photos/machighlander/4012282958

Kitsch but quaint, Blackpool is the perfect holiday town for young people, with its bustling attractions, events, nightlife and culture, all for an easily affordable price!

Cruise Holidays from the UK

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Ahabu Phillip
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Those that want to enjoy a holiday from the UK that is going to be a once in a lifetime experience, then going on a cruise is the answer. Despite what many people may think, a cruise is a delightful and safe way to experience a certain area. On most occasions when on a cruise, the person will touch port in several cities that they would have otherwise missed if they were to fly directly to their end location. For example, those cruises that plan on going to the United States, may touch on port in Italy and other areas, before getting into the US. It makes a trip even more exciting for a person due to them getting more than they bargained for.

When it comes to taking a cruise, there are several themes to these cruises that people can get in on. For example, there are cruises to celebrate certain holidays throughout the year, such as a New Year’s cruise for those that want to ensure that their New Year’s is something that they will always remember. While other people prefer to take cruises that are more age oriented. There are single’s cruises meant for those that are young adults, while there are also older couple’s cruises for those that are of the retirement age.

When on board a cruise, the person will find that it is much more than simply riding on a boat for a long period of time. There are activities and dinners that are coordinated to meet the needs of the age that the cruise is designed for. Activities that may be included are things such as a dance at night, games during the day, swimming classes, aerobic glasses and the like. The person will find that there is an endless amount of fun when they decide to take one of these cruises.

With that being said, those that are interested in taking cruise holidays from the UK then they are going to want to ensure that they book early. These cruises fill up quickly since they are something that so many people are interested in doing. Plus, they will find that the earlier that they book the better selection of rooms that they have, and they could even save money through booking this holiday’s earlier. They will find that travel agents will be the most helpful in booking these cruises and letting the person or couple know what cruises are available to choose from amongst others, the Top Carribbean Destinations. Some of the popular cruise destinations include the Cayman Islands and the Bahamas.

Why you should embrace the language barrier on exchange

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Ahabu Phillip
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If you enjoy feeling like an idiot, you should throw yourself into a foreign language when you go on exchange. Oh, and you might learn a thing or two about yourself while you’re at it, says Gina Baldassarre.

It was after a misunderstanding with a French shopkeeper involving the use of a regional slang word for plastic bag that I thought it was time to stop keeping track of my language fails on my year on exchange. The French, I decided, would just have to deal with another foreigner making a mess of their language.

However, it seems most Australian students heading on exchange don’t want to have to deal with the dreaded language barrier at all. Though the number of outbound students keeps rising, with the latest figures of student mobility from UNESCO showing that over 11,000 Aussie students set off on exchange or study abroad programs last year, over 8000 of those students went to one of either the United States, the United Kingdom, or New Zealand (that’s the one I really don’t get).

Admittedly, the college dorm or student town concept means life as a university student in the US and the UK might be somewhat different to student life in Australia, but if you’re going to bother spending tens of thousands of dollars to study on the other side of the world, why not go for broke and pick a country where they don’t speak English as a main language? Maybe I’m just biased given the year in France, but there’s nothing quite like throwing yourself into a completely foreign country.

There are many benefits: not only do you get to immerse yourself in a vastly different culture, but you get to learn another language too. In a time when university graduates need all the skills they can get to set themselves apart from the horde in the job market, being fluent in another language is a particularly handy skill to be able to put down on the résumé and talk up in a job interview. Given our proximity to the Asian market, Australian students would do well to get a handle on an Asian language, while learning Spanish may be useful if you want to work in America one day.

Not fussed about job prospects? What about the fact that learning another language and putting it into practice every day gives you valuable life skills? It’s true that students will gain life skills no matter where they go on exchange – seemingly simple tasks like buying a new SIM card, opening a bank account, and enrolling in host university classes can make students feel like toddlers learning to walk again thanks to unfamiliar rules and regulations. Even in English, dealing with administration systems you’re not familiar with can be extremely frustrating, to the point where you’re convinced the lady at the bank is talking in Swahili even though you’re definitely in London speaking English. Conquering these systems in a new language? You just slayed a dragon.

Dragon slaying abilities aside, learning a new language can also help you grow as a person, literally – did you know Swedish scientists found that learning a new language can increase the size of your brain? Putting it into practice among native speakers in an unfamiliar environment can also open up a different side of your personality. In the kind words of a Czech proverb, “Learn a new language and get a new soul.” To put it bluntly, it’s probably because you’ll feel like an idiot most, if not all, of the time.

On the bright side – and I think this is what the Czechs meant – you get better at really listening to people and thinking before you speak. I’m a native English speaker, fluent in Italian, and can hold a conversation or two in French, and I’m a different person in each language. For example, I’m much more polite in French and Italian, for the simple fact that I’m convinced that foreign swear words sound unnatural coming out of my mouth. I had to keep a lot of anger inside in France last year – there is no bigger dragon than French administration – but my inability to react to certain situations as I would have if I had been in an English-speaking environment meant I was forced to observe and try to understand the culture, and why I wanted to react to it the way I did.

Exchange is probably going to be the best semester or year of your life no matter where you go, but if you really want to discover a new side of yourself during your time on exchange, throwing yourself into a new language is the best way to do it.

Tips for Traveling with Small Children in Hong Kong

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Hong Kong Family

Hong Kong is a city of contrast and surprises. On one side, there is a bustling metropolis teaming with skyscrapers and shopping centers while, on the other hand, there is a natural habitat replete with mountains, sandy beaches, woodlands, and wetlands. The amount of things to do and see in Hong Kong is limitless, especially for young children with wild and vivid imaginations. Taking your kids here will expose them to a new plethora of experiences that cannot be achieved back home. However, taking your kids on a trip across the globe can be quite a challenge and a new experience altogether. Hence, this article aims to provide you helpful tidbits to help you and your children make the best of your Hong Kong family vacation.

Traveling to Hong Kong Checklist

If you are planning on going to Hong Kong (or anywhere else in the world), it comes without question that traveling with infants to small children can be quite tedious and tiring. Therefore, it is advisable for parents to take extra precautions when planning a trip. Even the simplest of items are a necessity in order to keep the young ones happy.

  • When it comes to traveling with children, it is always recommended to carry an extra small suitcase specifically for your kids. There will be things along the way kids would want you to buy. Keep items in this separate luggage so it doesn’t mix up with your belongings.
  • Before booking your flight, make it a point to inquire about the airlines’ seating arrangements to keep you, your kids and other passengers comfortable. If you are traveling with a small child, read up tips and tidbits on what you can do when your child experiences air pressure differentiation or abrupt emergencies. It’s best to notify the airlines during the booking ticket phase.
  • Suitcases are an essential component for travelers. It goes without saying that you need to identify your belongings quickly at the baggage claim section. A smart thing to do is to purchase a brightly colored suitcase or fix a colorful ribbon on all your bags, to make it easier for you and your kids to identify your luggage.
  • During the flight, allow your kids to watch TV or play games on the plane to keep them in good spirits. However, if you are traveling during the night, make sure the gaming accessories are turned off at appropriate times. If your child insists on playing the games, advise them to wear ear or headphones and to stay as quiet as possible.
  • Whenever you are traveling with a family, take the time to research for a family or kids friendly hotel, fully equipped with kid’s friendly activities and amenities like swimming pools or kid’s clubs.
  • Make it a point to carry non-messy, non-perishable food items or snacks for them. The snacks can be handed over to the children once you reach your destination.
  • Plan on where you want to go with your children. This will help eliminate fatigue and make your tour much more manageable.
  • If you are traveling with a toddler, carry an extra pair of clothes and nappy wipes. The clothes should be placed in an easy to access suitcase compartment.

Accommodation

A visit to Hong Kong is never complete without a visit to some of the island’s famous hotels and eateries to sample some of the finest cuisines from Asia and the rest of the world. One of the most stupendous hotel establishments in the port city is Novotel Nathan Road hotel. The facility’s 389 fully-furnished guest rooms are ideal for travelers staying in Hong Kong for business or holiday. The Novotel Hong Kong Nathan Road Hotel is located close to Kowloon’s CBD as well as the Jordan MTR. The hotel is catered to both business and family travelers from around the globe. The hotel has different rooms on offer, and the hotel can provide comfortable cots or beddings for younger children as well. Additionally, the hotel is part of the Planet 21 movement; a commitment across all Accor hotels to ensure the hotel follows eco-friendly practices to reduce, reuse and recycle material.

Additionally, the hotel is also committed to serving the best and healthy meal choices for its patrons, including children as well.

Things to do with Kids in Hong Kong

There are many fun things to do with children in Hong Kong. The best places to visit are Hong Kong Island, Kowloon Peninsula, and the Outlying Islands. In Kowloon, there are many favorite activities for kids to do such as swimming, hiking, trying out new dishes, ferry rides and going to Hong Kong Disneyland. The best places for swimming are in Stanley and Repulse Bay, Tung Wan Beach, Cheung Sha Beach and Lo So Shing Beach, just to name a few. Some places even provide camping grounds for families such as Aberdeen Country Park, and Tai Tam Country Park are two areas to consider. These two parks have trails promise excellent views of the city and sea.

The Kowloon peninsula is home to other attractions including open air markets, Kowloon Park, and double-decker bus rides. For open-air markets, it gets a little crowded at night, therefore, as a recommendation, it’s best to go when the markets are just setting up. Places such as the Temple Street Night Market or Ladies’ Market can be quite intimidating for young children as there are a lot of sounds, smells, and tons of people. Although markets are a great place to grab some local snacks and knickknacks, the crowd maybe a little too intimidating for them, hence, it’s recommended to go early.

If the markets are too intense for your children, take them to Kowloon Park. Kowloon Park is one of the larger parks smack dab in Hong Kong and offers solace for those who seek it. The park offers a broad range of facilities, including a swimming pool and an aviary for starters. Most notably, the park is quiet and

Kowloon Park is a distinctly green space in the midst of hustle and bustle of Hong Kong business district. You can travel with kids to the crowded shopping centers and streets in Kowloon on a double-decker bus and enjoy the sights. The Outlying Islands of Hong Kong are readily available by ferry; the average distance between most of these islands and Hong Kong Island is about one hour. The popular Outlying Islands sites to visit with kids include Tai O Fishing Village, Lantau Island and Po Lin Monastery. Taking your kids to Tai O Fishing Village will be a treat since this location offers something extraordinary; a chance to get up close and personal with pink dolphins. You can book tours in the village to go see the elusive pink dolphins. However, do keep mind that these are wild animals, and you may or may not see them!

From Lantau Island, you can hitch a ride back to the mainland via the Ngong Ping 360 cable car. The cable car is one of Kowloon’s most defining transportation methods as you can get spectacular views from above. Other spectacular places to take your children are Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park, Avenue of Stars and Hong Kong’s ginormous shopping malls are some ideas to take your kids for a fun day out.

In conclusion, there are a handful of things to do and see in Hong Kong and it comes to no surprise why many people choose to travel to Hong Kong for a memorable vacation! Going to Hong Kong will open new doors for you and your children to experience; a new culture, tradition, food as well as broaden their cultural horizons for many years to come.

Ways to Make a Difference with Community Work Abroad

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Volunteer Abroad

There are loads of options for volunteering overseas, but I reckon working with local communities has to be among the most rewarding. There are just so many ways to help, and you’ll know that what you’re doing will make a real difference to their future. To get a few ideas of the kinds of things you can do (and where), read on.

Work with children

Working with underprivileged children has a real appeal – after all, they’re often the worst affected by adversity, and the least able to protect themselves. While teaching might be the most obvious way to help, it’s not the only route to go down. For example, you can:

• Carry out community work in Jaipur. This may be a beautiful place, but it is blighted with chronic poverty. You can get stuck in at a local community centre and work on a project with a broad focus, aiming to improve everything from health levels to education. As well as playing games with the children, encouraging sports and assisting at mealtimes, you can pitch in with the general maintenance of the centre – something that makes the environment more pleasant for everyone.

Sports programmes

These can be a really interesting way of helping out local communities. Some projects are simply designed to give people a chance to do things they wouldn’t normally be able to, while others are about empowering people through sport:

• Surfing with disadvantaged children in South Africa. This falls into the former category, giving kids who can’t afford to surf the chance to do so. Don’t panic if you can’t actually surf yourself; you’ll be taught while you’re there, and then you can teach others.

• Sports development in Swaziland. This definitely comes under the bracket of empowering people through sport. Swaziland is badly affected by HIV/AIDS and many children here have their families shattered by it. As a result, they turn to crime. This kind of project helps steer them back on the right path and inspire them to achieve through all kinds of sports. You’ll help with things like training and organising mini competitions for young people to take part in.

Building work

Volunteering with local communities needn’t mean teaching in some form (though that’s certainly a popular choice). If you want to get your hands dirty and get really involved in the local community, building work’s an incredible choice – especially as you know the what you help construct is desperately needed.

• Build homes for Costa Rican families. Helping to build someone’s home is immensely rewarding, and if you head to Costa Rica, you can work closely with families to give them a new place to live. Lots of the housing here just isn’t good enough in terms of sanitation and weather proofing, so the work you do will seriously help to improve the quality of life of people who need it most. You can work on all kinds of things, such as digging trenches, mixing cement, preparing foundations.

• Renovate schools in Nepal. Homes aren’t the only option for building work. Travel to Nepal and you can assist with vital projects in schools, from helping to improve existing rooms to building new ones and gardening. You’ll be taught any skills you need to know, but bear in mind this is pretty tough physical labour – especially since there aren’t any handy machines like cement mixers to use!

These are just some of the ways you can help local communities while you’re travelling. Have you got any stories of your own time spent volunteering overseas?

10 Amazing Places to Visit in DR Congo

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Nyiragongo Volcanoes

The Democratic Republic of Congo is a country with great natural resources and wonders. Apart from gold, diamonds and oil, the Congo has over 15 other mineral resources. I should point out at this point that the uranium ore used to build the first atomic bombs were got from the Shinkolobwe Mines in the country. Minerals aside, Congo is a paradise for wildlife and nature lovers. From Africa’s big 5 animals to birds and reptiles, the country has it all. The Congo is home to wildlife species found nowhere else on earth including the elusive okapi, bongo, bonobos (pygmy chimpanzees), Congolese Peafowl, eastern lowland gorillas and mores. It is only in the Congo where tourists go on gorilla safari can track both wild mountain gorillas and Grauer’s gorillas (Eastern Lowland gorillas). Other beautiful attractions include active volcanoes, waterfalls.

There are also incredible cultural experiences with tribes like the Mbuti Pygmies. These pygmies still live like they used to over 10,000 years ago. Stay with the Mbuti pygmies for a week and you will go back home with amazing stories to tell your friends. Cultural experiences aside, there are also amazing physical features like the Nyiragongo Volcano. The experience of observing the boiling Magma on top of these mountain revivals any game drive you will do in the Masai Mara or the Serengeti National Park. But there is more. Congo is blessed with amazing waterfalls and endless rivers. Following the river Congo by boat for a month will give you an opportunity to appreciate the country’s natural beauty and tourism potential.

There is great hope for the country and things are improving. Increased globalization means the Congo cannot be left behind. Soon the rebels and militias will be no more and when that happens, people will begin realizing what they have been missing. There are many who predict that the Democratic Republic of Congo will become one of the most visited countries in Africa in the near future.

Virunga National Park

Virunga is the oldest national park in Africa and one of the many UNESCO World heritage sites in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park was established in 1925 and is located in the eastern part of the country. Virunga was at first named Albert National Park and by then included the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and parts of Mgahinga Gorilla Park in Uganda. Virunga is the most visited national park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. What stands out about it apart from volcanoes and mountain gorillas is the remarkable biodiversity. Virunga is home to lions, leopards, chimpanzees, elephants, hippopotamus and rare creatures like the okapi. Gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park is the most popular activity followed closely by hiking Mount Nyiragongo.

Mount Nyiragongo

The Nyiragongo Volcano is one of the key attractions in Virunga National Park and its plumes of smoke can be seen from as far as Rwanda during the night. Nyiragongo is an active volcano with the largest lava lake on earth. Ever since 1984, the mountain has erupted 34 times with the last occurring in 2011. Every year thousands ignore the bad press and security reports from their embassies for a chance to call themselves as one of the few who have observed a lava lake up-close. When combined with gorilla trekking in Virunga and visiting the Serengeti/Masai Maraa, you would have done something that you can talk about with pride to your folks back home. Climbing Mount Nyiragongo takes two days and you will be left in awe at the sight of the lava lake. Nyiragongo hiking tickets cost $300 per person including a night spent on cabins while at the summit.

Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage

After visiting the gorillas in the wild, tourists who book with Mikeno lodge have an opportunity to visit the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage. This is the only Mountain gorilla orphanage in the world and about 7 individuals call it home. The center also rehabilitates Eastern Lowland gorilla orphans for a while before relocating them to the Eastern Lowland gorilla orphanage known as the Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center. The center was named after a giant silverback known as Senkwekwe. Senkwekwe was killed by poachers as he attempted to protect his family and recover an infant captured by animal traffickers.

His death and the capture of other infant gorillas laid the foundation for the establishment of this center. The Center is set on a stretch of forest allowing the primates to experience the same conditions of their wild relatives. The Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage welcomes volunteers who are interested in learning more about mountain gorillas. If you are enthusiastic about gorilla conservation, you can sponsor one of the gorilla orphans or donate to the Sanctuary. Visiting the Center is free to tourists residing in the luxury Mikeno Lodge.

Maiko National Park

Maiko National Park covers an area of about 10,885 square kilometers. Most of it is forest and an important global carbon sink. Like most of the National parks in the country, it is located in a very remote area. In fact, it is Congo’s most inaccessible game park. The park consists of 3 sectors – Maniema, Province Orientale and North Kivu. Maiko National Park is one of the last strongholds of the Grauer’s gorilla – also known as the Eastern lowland gorillas. These are the largest subspecies of gorillas. Other animals endemic to the Congo but found in Maiko include the Congo Peafowl and Okapi. Maiko National Park is an important conservation site for aquatic genet, chimpanzees and African forest elephants. Visitors should also look forward to spotting leopards and the elusive bongo.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park

This national park is found in found in the Eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo – near the border with Rwanda and close to Lake Kivu. Kahuzi-Biega National Park National Park is another of the many UNESCO World heritage sites in Congo. The gets its name from two extinct volcanoes known as Kahuzi and Biega. These two volcanos paint the landscape and are joined together by a small stretch of forest. Kahuzi-Biega National Park offers travelers that complete wilderness charm and feeling that only the Congo can provide these days. The park is an excellent travel destination for travelers who desire to do something different or discover Africa’s last remaining true wildernesses.

Other than pristine wilderness, Kahuzi-Biega National Park is one of the last strongholds for the largest gorilla species on earth – the Grauer’s gorilla.  About 400 individuals are found in the park with others found in Maiko National Park and some other reserves in the neighboring areas. In total, about 5,000 Eastern lowland gorillas remain on earth and they are all found in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Interestingly, despite not having the largest population of the primates, Kahuzi Biega is the best place to see the Eastern Lowland gorilla. Eastern lowland gorilla trekking is the most popular activity but tourists can also register for chimpanzee tracking, visiting the chimpanzee sanctuary in Lwiro, birding, mountain hiking and nature walks to discover amazing waterfalls.

Salonga National Park

Salonga National park is located within the Congo River basin and covers an area of about 36, 00 square kilometers. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site because of the dense forests and remarkable creatures that call it home. The tropical rain-forest which makes up much of the national park is so dense that new species are still being discovered. The park was declared a World Heritage site in danger since 1999 because of continuous civil wars in the eastern Congo. These civil wars have allowed poaching for bush meat to thrive.  Regardless of the civil wars and poaching, Salonga remains a major tourist attraction for the future because of its extensive forests and remarkable biodiversity. Among the wildlife found in the park include the rare Congo peafowl, forest elephants, bonobos, salonga monkeys, Tshuapa red Colobus monkeys, okapi and the African slender-snouted crocodile. The road networks within and outside the park is poorly developed. Because of that, the only way to access the park is via the river.

Garamba National Park

Garamba is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its collection of plant and animal life. The park was established in 1938, making it one of the oldest national parks in Africa. The park consists of endless savannah grasslands and woodlands which continue all the way to South Sudan and the Central African Republic. Garamba once home to over 20,000 African elephants but now only about 1,500 remain. Extensive poaching may soon wipe out the last known population of White Rhinos if conservationists lower their guard. Garamba is arguably the best par for standard game drives in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Visitors can view all the big 5, giraffes, hippos, antelopes and birds.

Lake Kivu: Lake Kivu is one of the largest lakes in Africa. It is shared by Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Lake Kivu lies next to the great Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega National Park. Under the lake is a large reservoir of methane gas which scientists believe is a disaster waiting to happen if the right conditions present it or if a volcanic eruption occurs among one of the Virunga volcanos. After a long safari in Congo or Rwanda, Lake Kivu is excellent for relaxation, swimming, island hopping, visiting local fishing communities, canoeing, kayaking, biking and other water spots. Fishing is also possible and the main catches are Nile Tilapia, Tanganyika sardines, Clarias, Haplochromis, Barbus and Limnothrissa miodon. There are no hippos, crocodiles or bilharzia to worry about while swimming in Lake Kivu.

Idjwi Island: Also known as Ijwi, the island is found in Congo’s section of Lake Kivu. The Island covers an area of about 340 square kilometers and is considered the 2nd largest inland island in the continent of Africa. Idjwi Island is home to about 200,000 people. Most of them survive on subsistence farming and small scale fishing. Idjwi Island became a kingdom in the 18th Century and had a connection to the ruling monarchy Rwanda at the time. Tourists who visit the Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega National Parks often visit the island for cultural tours, hiking and also to explore the beautiful Lake Kivu. Boat rides to the island from Bukavu (near Kahuzi-Biega National Park) takes about 2 hours. Once there, the only means of transport is by bike, motorcycle or walking.

Okapi Wildlife Reserve: The Okapi Wildlife Reserve is one of the many beautiful attractions and UNESCO World Heritage sites in Congo which have been hidden way from much of the world. The reserve covers about 14,000 square kilometers and one fifth of it consists of dense forest. Okapi Wildlife Reserve rewards those who are fortunate enough to visit with amazing scenery, a chance to observe the elusive okapi, other wildlife species, waterfalls and a cultural encounter that is second to none in Africa. To find the elusive okapi, one needs at least 3 days in the Ituri forest. The search is interesting because it is led by Mbuti pygmies. They are the ones who know the secrets of the forest and can locate the okapi using instinct or small leads. While tracking the okapi, the pygmies will introduce you to their lifestyle of hunting and gathering in the forest.

Budget Travel: Climbing Kilimanjaro the Financially Savvy Way

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Kilimanjaro Hiking

Climbing Kilimanjaro might be a dream of yours, but it’s wise to make sure the costs don’t turn into a nightmare. When you’re new to Tanzania, as for any place, you won’t necessarily know what’s an overpriced rip-off and what’s too cheap to be safe.

So, we’ve put together an idea of what to think about when you’re planning your trip. The cheapest deal might not be the best, but you don’t need to go for the uber-expensive option either. There are over 200 licensed tour operators offering Kilimanjaro treks. If you walk through Moshi town, almost every second person will say that they can take you up the mountain. The truth is, the number of reliable operators is limited.

Don’t choose your tour operator by price alone. What you should be looking for is quality service for a reasonable rate.

The costs: what a tour up Kilimanjaro normally includes

Every trip up Kilimanjaro will include the basic expenses of park fees, camping fees, rescue fees, staff wages, transportation and logistical costs and taxes. So what does this look like in real life? Let’s take a look at a tour – a six day climb via the Machame Route, which is a popular route.

The national park fee for Kilimanjaro is US$670 per person for a 6 day/5 night climb. Depending on your group size, each climber will be accompanied by four porters, one chef and one guide. Local wages for these crew members are about US$280. Additionally, food costs for yourself and the crew add up to about US$250. Also there may be transport costs of around US$100. Along with these major expenses there are quite a few other factors like rescue fees, equipment maintenance and taxes.

Kilimanjaro Mountain

Overpriced or luxury? How to decide 

Luxury Kilimanjaro operators lure you in with promises of extraordinary climb success rates, greater safety standards and extras, but will charge prices that are not justifiable. No matter what luxury Kilimanjaro operator is promising, US$4000-5000– or even sometimes up to US$6000 for a standard itinerary- is just too much. Kilimanjaro is a tough climb and there’s no huge extra level of comfort that can be built in – unless they’re promising a piggyback up the mountain!

The extras might sound good, but they’re not practical. You’ll crave a hot shower after your trek but that doesn’t mean that the portable shower at -20°C offered by your operator will be much fun; or having bottled Kilimanjaro water (the most common bottled water in Tanzania) on your entire trek instead drinking from the clean, purified mountain water from small streams.

If you book through a tour operator outside Tanzania, the focus won’t be on your Kilimanjaro climb. They’ll offer it as part of an extensive list of tour offers, with three consequences:

  • Kilimanjaro is not their core business and they have to rely on others to ensure your trip is safe.
  • Your booking will be routed through many organisations before it reaches the guides at the base of Kilimanjaro. There is a lot of opportunity for things to go wrong.
  • If something happens on your climb, your contact people are far away and might not won’t even speak the language so might not be of much help on the ground.
Low cost or low standards? How to decide

We’re all looking for the best deal. We’re all on a budget. So how cheap can your trek be without being a scam?

Kilimanjaro Mountains

At this side of the price range, every dollar saved comes at a price. On Kilimanjaro, safety should be your priority. How much is the dollar saved worth, when you’re on a high altitude trek and something goes wrong? Here are some issues worth thinking about:

  • Guides: There are countless guides who claim to be able to take you safely to the top of Kilimanjaro. The good mountain guides don’t work for questionable companies. They don’t wait for a call for a Kilimanjaro trek next month. They are on the mountain all year round and they climb with the company that is best for them and gives them most benefits. Top guides have experience on the mountain, speak good English and have first aid training.
  • Organizational experience: People who tell their story of climbing Kilimanjaro generally mention phrases like “greatest trek”, “hardest thing I have ever done”, “bucket list” , “once in a lifetime” in their storytelling. It’s an intense experience. And because it’s intense, you need to make sure that everything is organised properly. All it takes is an incomplete packing list, or incomplete gate registration or camp fee for your trip to be cancelled. So it makes sense to book a tour with a company that has experience and who knows what they’re doing.
  • Equipment: The saying goes, “There’s no bad weather, just bad clothing”. The wrong gear or broken gear can ruin your trip. However, the lower the budget, the higher the chance that the company can’t afford to fix the holes in your tent. Also make sure that your company checks all your Kilimanjaro mountain gear and don’t take chances with “normally, you don’t need”. There is no “normally” in an extreme situation!
  • KIATO registration: If a company is registered with the Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators, it’s an important indication that the company looks after their guides and porters. KIATO ensures that all members pay fair wages and that all staff are properly clothed for the extreme temperatures. They’ll provide transport, medical assistance, shelter and the park fees for them. Additionally a registered company provides meals for the entire crew and makes sure that porters aren’t overloaded.

Kilimanjaro is an investment, however much you pay. But if you book with a trusted, reliable and KIATO-registered company that looks after their staff as well as they look after you, you’re sure to have a memorable and safe adventure.

5 Simple Ways To Take The Stress Out Of Summer Vacation Planning

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With summer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start thinking about booking your summer vacation.

While many of us look forward to getting away for a week or two, what we don’t enjoy is the stress that comes with it. Planning a holiday, especially a holiday for a larger group of people, can be incredibly stressful.

Planning any trip can be stressful. There are worries about where to go, who to invite and how much to spend, but the key is, to remember that holidays are meant to be relaxing and fun.

Here’s our guide to five simple ways you can take the stress out of summer vacation planning.

1. Get an idea of what you want

One of the main factors that cause stress when planning a holiday is not knowing what type of trip you want. With so many different vacation packages to choose from, it’s no wonder we end up feeling stressed out.

Get a clear idea in your head of what you want. Think about where you want to go, who you want to go with and how long you want to go for – knowing in advance will take a lot of the stress out of the planning.

2. Be organised

Once you know what you want from your trip, get organised by doing lots of research. Find out what is on offer in the area, where the best deals are and how much the trip will cost you.

Go online and use TripAdvisor to read up on different destinations – this should give you an idea of the most suitable places for you to visit. If you are unsure about what a certain holiday package offers, take the time to find out.

3. Make travel simple

One of the most stressful parts of heading off on holiday is the travel arrangements. Spending hours waiting around in an airport is not an ideal start to a holiday for anyone, especially with all the stress this may cause.

If you want to make your travel to your holiday destination as simple as possible, consider using jet charters instead of public planes. This cuts out the stress of waiting around in the airport for your plane and gets you to your destination much more quickly.

4. Be prepared

Once you have booked your trip, take the time to check that all passports are usable and still in date. Store them in a safe place, and make a note of where they are. It is also important to gather all other travel documents together and store them with your passports.

Don’t leave this until the last minute, if there is a problem with any of the passports of other documents this will cause a lot of unnecessary stress.

5. Let the small stuff go

It’s only natural that you want your holiday to be perfect, but if you spend your time worrying about the small things you are going to end up feeling very stressed.

Instead of worrying about every little thing, let the small things go. If the hotel suite you requested isn’t available or the restaurant you planned to eat at is fully booked, don’t stress about it.

Live in the moment and just have fun. Trust us, you will enjoy yourself a lot more.

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Journeys Magazine is a travel publication with In-depth features on best destinations to visit, things to see. tips and advice to help you travel around the world.
Contact us: info@journeys-magazine.co.uk

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