There’s a known lighthearted rivalry between the two South African cities of Johannesburg and Cape Town, but how they match up when compared with each other? Continue reading Johannesburg versus Cape Town
Neil Emilfarb’s Hidden Paradise Exposed
Located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, in the Southeastern region of the Europe, Montenegro is a relatively small country with an upper-middle income status and a tremendous potential for growth. This potential is solely concentrated on the Montenegrin tourism industry, since this country’s number of visitors is on a constant growth. One of the main reasons behind this occurrence is definitely the complex called the Dukley Gardens, a real estate investment that caught the attention of media worldwide.
Mr. Neil Emilfarb, an American investor and founder of the Stratex Group, found this piece of paradise in a phase of development, while the local government was still struggling with the translation to an open market economy model. The town of Budva, nestled between mountains and sea, famous for its ancient monuments and well preserved medieval fortress, and a popular destination because of its sandy beaches and a very active nightlife, is the very center of the Montenegrin tourism. During the year 2013, Budva reported almost a 4,500,000 overnight stays, and a total of almost a 700,000 of tourist visits. That number is on a constant increase, and for the small city of no more than 14,000 people, this number of visits is astonishing.
The Dukley Gardens
Some of the most popular beaches on the south Adriatic are located right here. However, if you are looking for a little bit of privacy, you can still find secluded sanctuaries nearby and enjoy in the serenity of this wonderful place. The most beautiful and completely private beaches are located inside of the Mr. Neil’s real estate complex, the Dukley Gardens.
For the residents of this complex, there is a great variety of services available. There are tennis courts, pools and find many other activities offered for your convenience; or you can visit one of the restaurants and a lounge bar which is situated in a sandy beachfront, in the shades of palms and cedar trees. The panoramic views from this place will encaptivate you, and an obvious presence from centuries old societies that left their mark on the town of Budva will make you believe that you’ve wandered off in a timeless haven.
The great thing about Dukley Gardens is that this place welcomes families as well as individuals. The younger crowd will have no trouble in finding some excitement as well. It is designed for every need or desire possible, so if you are looking for a day-care center – you will find it inside of the complex, with educators and animators available for your child’s needs and amusement. If you are looking for a good time – the old town of Budva is a regular host to some of the greatest pop stars, and even movie stars like Steven Seagal, are known to visit their residences as well.
So if you are already planning your 2016 vacation, consider Budva as your destination. The Dukley hotel will be open for business by that time, and if you are a yachting enthusiast, you will have no trouble finding port here. In fact, it is one of the popular Adriatic destinations for yacht owners too. With beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an amazing cuisine at affordable prices – this hidden paradise will offer you peace, amusement, and memories that will keep calling you back to Dukley all year round.
Wine Capitals of the World
True wine lovers and aficionados know what the world has to offer. Countries such as Spain, France, California, Australia, Argentina and Chile are just some of the largest wine producers and exporters in the world. These areas have the perfect grape-growing climate and long traditions in winemaking, with billions of liters produced each year. Other countries, unlike these traditional produces, are able to provide only small supplies of domestic wines, not enough to quench the world’s thirst. If you find yourself in a local retailer’s wine cellar, or travelling abroad, these are the wine capitals that have given, and continue to give the best wines, consistent in quality and flavor.
Spain
Bilbao, located in the province of Biscay (autonomous community of the Basque Country), is the tenth largest municipality in Spain. Founded in the year 1300, Bilbao is a well-known industrial and cultural center and tourist destination, famous for its natural resources, geography, cooking and wine. Rioja is the famous wine region in Spain, located about 100 km south of Bilbao. It is divided into three major regions – Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Baja. About 250 million liters of wine are produced annually in Rioja (of which 85% are red (tinto), while the rest are white (blanco) and rosé (rosado). “The land of wines” has over 57 thousand hectares of cultivated land, producing a variety of delicate wines. Spain has over 250 wine regions, with Rioja and Priorat that produce wine of most lauded quality.
Australia
The land of Aborigines, rich in rainforests, deserts, beautiful coral reefs, beaches and national parts, is the fourth largest exporter of wine in the world. Governor Phillip brought the first vine cuttings from the Cape of Good Hope to the colony of New South Wales in 1788. Thirty five years later, Australian wine was exported for the first time. Today, over a billion liters of wine is made in 6 major wine regions of Australia each year. New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia are areas with an astonishing array of diverse climates and about 130 different grape varieties, allowing winemakers to produce well-reviewed Australian wines with unique and distinct flavors.
California
The sunny California is regarded as a top tourist destination, culturally diverse, with great nature preserves, relaxing resorts, shopping places, best cuisine, and the Sunset Strip. Napa Valley (Napa County, northern California) is one of the best American viticultural Areas (wine grape-growing region) in the North Coast wine region. Central Coast, South Coast and Central Valley are areas consisted of 12 most notable wine regions. The first commercial winery in California was opened in 1859 by John Patchett. California is a top wine and food destination in the US, with a wide range of world class wines offered for the enjoyment of your palate.
France
French wine has a worldwide reputation. About 8 million bottles are produced each year, all throughout France. There are 17 wine regions, with Bordeaux being the largest one, with the longest history in wine exporting. The city of Bordeaux mesmerizes with its beautiful architecture (cathedrals, gothic and baroque churches, museums), parks, squares, gardens, seaside resorts, restaurants and shopping centers. The wine is categorized into 6 main families with 60 different appellations. Consistent in quality, tasting Bordeaux wines is a must for every wine aficionado out there.
Springtime Events in Sydney: Culture and Taste buds
The spring season is upon us and joie de vivre is all around while Sydney is brimming with events and things to do and see. With so much going on, it can be difficult to choose, so we’re giving you a short guide through the season and we hope you find something of interest.
September
- Sydney Fringe festival – during the entire month – September the 1st through September the 30th, this is the largest independent arts festival in NSW, spreading across five cultural villages. Check out the festival e-guide to plan your route from over 300 productions in over 50 venues. http://www.sydneyfringe.com/ticketing/festival_e-guide/
October
- Balcony Styling workshops – a well known garden designer ,Judith Sleijpen, will be teaching about design, furniture, accessories, plants and everything you need to know to make a great garden and patio for yourself. This is a 3 hour workshop including brunch. http://www.petiteretreat.com.au/
- The Greats: Masterpieces from the National Galleries of Scotland – Sydney is home to many exquisite galleries the whole year round, with both regular and guest exhibitions to fascinate even the most critical of enthusiasts. You should book a Sydney tour and see them all, but take special note of the Art Gallery of NSW this spring and summer – October the 4th through February the 14th, 2016, is the right time to feast your eyes on the sight of 70 masterpieces from the greatest European artists including Botticelli, Leonardo, Cézanne, El Greco, Gauguin and Monet. The exhibition will be presented exclusively in Australia by the Art Gallery of NSW as part of the Sydney International Art Series.
The Virgin adoring the sleeping Christ child, c1485 (detail)
- Sydney Morning Herald Growers Market – October the 3rd through November the 7th, held in Pyrmont Bay park, this market has been a tradition for the last 14 years, selling everything from seafood, vegetables and fresh fruits to locally roasted coffees on tap. Specialty breakfasts are served outdoors by the harbor, and a special celebrity chef cook-off will take place at the Market Chef Stage.
- Night Noodle Markets – October the 8th through October the 25th, held in Hyde Park, with over 50 food stalls as part of the Good Food Month, the world’s largest food festival and the best time for outdoor cooking and dining. Enjoy the rich flavor, sounds and smells of Asian cuisine and the buzz of a festival.
November
- Twilight Racing – October 30th sees the start of the sailing season that will continue till March. You can join the Pilgrim Sailing crew on a beautiful yacht and help sail the boat or just sit back and enjoy. You will get sailings instructions if you want to get involved but the crew will try and win the race. Races are held on Wednesday and Friday nights. Book in advance.
- Sydney Open – this November the 1st, presented by Sydney Living Museums, this event gives visitors the chance to see some of the city’s best heritage, architecture and urban design. This year, the focus will be on buildings across the CBD, Ultimo and Chippendale.
- Chinatown Night Market – going on from mid September to January, every Friday night as part of Good Food Month, take a moonlit walk among food stalls and lanterns along Little Eat Street and enjoy the flavors, from Hong Kong to Hanoi, with yum cha, tepanyaki, takoyaki, sushi, Sichuan, pho and more!
Springtime is here, the buzz is on, get out and enjoy all the wonders this amazing city has ready for you!
The Cost of Speeding Around The World
Renting a car whilst abroad can be a liberating and fun way to explore the ‘real’ parts of the place you’re visiting and to find destinations out of the general tourists’ eye, but when it comes to driving there are different rules around the world that must be followed if you want to stay in line with the law. Continue reading The Cost of Speeding Around The World
Packing the Perfect Traveler’s Hygiene Kit
No matter how thorough we are while packing for vacation, once we reach our dream destination, something’s always missing. Unfortunately, that something is usually a part of our hygiene kit. 4 out of 5 times it’s the toothbrush. It makes sense, right? While we are deciding on the number of shirts we won’t even get to wear, and the books we won’t ever open, something as insignificant as a toothbrush has to slip out of our minds. Don’t worry, though. As annoying as it is, this is a small problem that can instantly be solved with the help of a permanently pre-packed hygiene kit.
Or at least a packing list for creating one on the go.
Oral Hygiene
- Toothbrush. Let’s start with what we already mentioned. The toothbrush is a no-brainer, but did you know that you could save on space by getting one in a tiny size? Even in a foldable version?There is almost too many different sorts with different functions, and all of them only serve to clean your teeth! Still, a regular brush with a safety cap will serve most people just fine.
- Toothpaste. Buy a compact traveler’s tube; you won’t use it for too long. Alternatively, you can always be a little ahead of your time and buy toothpaste sachets or toothpaste tablets.
3. Floss. Although its primary purpose is to keep your mouth clean, we are sure you will find at least a dozen other functions for this handy item. Using it as a string in a pinch to sew up holes and a temporary luggage lock are the first things to come to mind.
Hair and Body Wash
- Shampoo and Conditioner. Or better said – don’t bring both. Shampoo and conditioner bottles are large and crammy even when they are travel-sized, which is why 2-in-1 shampoo-conditioners were invented. Take advantage, and wrap your hair in a mask when you get back home if you really have to.
- Facial Skin Care. If you have problematic skin, then you will need to bring your facial regime with you wherever you go, in order not to ruin the results you’ve achieved before the trip. But as you are most likely changing climates, some alteration in your daily routine could be just fine. You will need something light and airy, and cleverly packaged to fit in your kit. Modern organic skin care products are the best in the market to cover the quirky packaging needs of constant travelers, and they feel better on the face. Look there before you hit the supermarket.Body wash. Soap or body wash, you know what suits you better. Traveling is dirty work, and dirty work calls for a healthy scrub. Once again, organic soaps are often better as they are more obviously infused with ingredients that soothe the skin, prevent inflammations, moisturize… whatever you may need. Shower gels are easier to pack than soap bars, so keep that in mind.
Shaving Kit
- Razor. Important for both ladies and gentlemen. Disposable razors are always a good enough option for traveling, so keep your fancy Braun back home. Ladies, of course, can take care of all shaving problems ahead by simply waxing before the trip, if the trip is a shorter one.
- Shaving cream. What’s a razor without a proper shaving cream? And if you’re sensitive, a mild aftershave lotion? This counts especially if you are going to a warm or wet climate, because sweat/water can be very uncomfortable upon freshly mis-shaven skin.
Paraphernalia
- Nail clippers. Don’t leave your house without them. Stainless steel ones are great for humid climates.
- Hairbrush. You can’t rely on the place you will be staying to have a brush. Bring one with you, especially if you’re an active traveler who does a lot of things in high winds. #tangled
- Lip balm. Cracked lips are not only unattractive, they are painful, too. Boy or girl, traveling without lip balm is fool’s work.
So, these are a few things we consider essential for any travel hygiene kit. Of course, your personal habits will maybe demand some additions to this list. Still, use this as a basis for your preparations and a quick check before you hit the road, just to be sure that you will have your toothbrush when you need it the most.
The New Asian Cuisine Hub: Must-Visit Restaurants in Brisbane
Brisbane has become the epicenter of modern and creative Asian cuisine. Incidentally, Brisbane’s Asian restaurants are also some of the best restaurants in Brisbane. For your road trips in Australia, these restaurants are a must-visit.
FantAsia
FantAsia Brisbane offers Asian fast food. By using traditional cooking methods and local, seasonal produce, FantAsia delivers fresh and authentic Asian flavors without the price and wait of typical Asian cuisine restaurants.
The main attraction at FantAsia is the Tokyo Beef entree, which complements the lemongrass and ginger tea.
Sake
Sake Restaurant and Bar focuses on contemporary Japanese cuisine with hints of California and European flavors. The restaurant offers private dining rooms as well as communal banquet dining area.
Sake’s signature dishes include steamed prawn dumplings and ‘glacier 51’ tooth-fish lettuce cups.
Asian-Szechuan Bang Bang Cuisine
Inspired by the traditional cuisine of the Sichuan Province, Asian-Szechuan has brought Southwest China flavors to Brisbane. Cooking methods that date back 2,000 years add to the customary tang.
Black fungus and tofu skin salad with garlic and chili oil is offered as an entrée. The less adventurous can opt for a classic dish like Sichuan beef hot pot.
Golden Barbeque
Focusing on classic Chinese BBQ, Golden Barbeque offers large portions and authentic flavors. This hidden gem offers a mom and pop environment with economic prices. Check out their staple dish of BBQ duck.
Taigum Gardens
Taigum Gardens has a vast array of Chinese cuisine options inspired by multiple Chinese delicacies. Large portions and high-quality meats can be expected from this quint restaurant, which is geared to adults. Must-try dishes include the crispy honey beef, the traditional roast duck, and the mango ice cream.
Happy Boy
Located on Mein St., this hidden gem focuses on Chinese cuisine with hints of French and Italian inspiration. Happy Boy offers a small, charming space in a converted warehouse. Recommendations include the dried fried green beans, salt and pepper prawns and pork belly sliders.
Bird’s Nest Yakitori & Bar
Bird’s Nest brings traditional Japanese Yakitori to Brisbane. Using solely fresh, free-range meats and organic produce, Bird’s Nest offers multiple gluten-free and vegetarian options. They specialize in skewers with beef, chicken, veggies, tofu and/or pork belly.
Paddington Curry House
Specializing in Indian and Nepalese cuisine, Paddington Curry House provides complementary rice with every curry order. Staples include paneer tikka, an Indian cheese marinated in tandoori spices then grilled to perfection, and traditional chicken malai tikka. Their goat curry is a staple for every curry fanatic.
Citron Restaurant
For anyone who enjoys modern twists to their Asian cuisine will fall in love with Citron. Owned and operated by Robert Foley, previously of Piccolo Restaurant, and notable chef Mark Newman. Citron is the only restaurant in town where eaters can find green tea salt calamari with ginger chili dipping sauce.
Fat Noodle Restaurant
Fat Noodle was created by famed chef Luke Nguyen, and includes a mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai and Malay dishes. Nguyen’s signature dish is Fat Pho Noodles, which consists of a 20-hour beef broth, bean sprouts, fresh Thai basil, fresh chili and rice noodles.
Top 5 Aussie Road Trips
The vast territory that is Australia has much to offer. Each region is unique and has spectaculars landscape that must be explored and experienced. Indulge in a holiday of a lifetime and plan a road trip to see the country. Take a week or two, pack the bags, gather the family, load the vehicle and take snacks for the best Aussie road trips. Driving ensures that you do not miss anything between starting and finishing destinations. Take your time and visit some of the most amazing areas on the continent.
1) Great Ocean Road-Victoria
The journey along the southern coast requires a few days in order to make the most of the trip. The destination is renowned around the world for its natural beauty and sites. The famous iconic adventure spans more than 250 kilometres from Torquay to Warrnambool. In addition to the wondrous coastal scenery, the drive provides the chance to stop and encounter wildlife, go hiking, gaze at cascading waterfalls and grab a meal at one of the local beachside communities. Take photographs of the unique formations known as the 12 Apostles. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the calm waters of the Lock Ard Gorge. See the adorable koalas at Kennett River.
2) Red Centre Way-Northern Territory
While many prefer to take the Stuart Highway from Alice Springs to Uluru, the Red Centre Way is infinitely more scenic. Along the way, you will happen upon picturesque canyons and gorges that feature camping and hiking locations. Make a point of being there for an amazing sunrise or sunset. Watch Uluru change colour throughout the course of the day. Take the base walk. Guests of all ages enjoy the memorable camel rides. Stop at nearby Kata Tjuta. Trek through Kings Canyon and along the shores of Glen Helen Gorge. Take a dip in the cool waters of Ormiston Gorge.
3) The Savannah Way-Queensland
Start in the east at Cairns and venture the 3,700 kilometres to Broome in the west. While in Cairns, drive to Undara Volcanic National Park and explore the ancient lava tubes. Gem fossicking is also popular here and might gain a participant anything from aquamarine or quartz gemstones to gold. Make a point of going south of Millaa Millaa and see the most photographed falls in the country. Stay on the lookout for the Ulysses butterfly. Maybe catch a glimpse of a platypus later in the afternoon. The destination is a popular swimming spot and perfects for BBQs and picnics. There are also changing rooms and toilets.
4) Cairns to Cape Tribulation
An eastern coast adventure brings guests to the tropical environs of North Queensland. The iconic scenic region is considered one of the most enchanting destinations on the planet. The reduced humidity during the winter months is more desirable. There are also fewer stinging insects to spoil the trip. Highlights here not to miss include the chance to snorkel or scuba along the Great Barrier Reef. Scramble across the rocks at Mossman Gorge and learn more about the area at the Daintree Discovery Centre.
5) Sydney to Brisbane
The Legendary Pacific Coast remains one of Australia’s most popular road trips. The 900-kilometre drive offers something for visitors of all ages. Tour a winery and sample the vintages in Hunter Valley. Stroll along the coastal promenade at Port Macquarie. Take in the sunset at Coffs Coast or Byron Bay. Take the whole family swimming in the clear blue protected waters of Kingscliff.
Change the Way You Travel with Travel Apps
What is the lowest common denominator of all good travel apps? They are here to help you with something that you didn’t even realize you need helping with. With the App Store and Google Play brimming with boldly advertised apps, it’s always good to separate truly useful ones from those that only serve to justify their developer’s existence.
Cheap data roaming
Whoever has burnt their fingers on accidental or unsuspecting data roaming escapade knows how ridiculously high phone companies charge even the simplest online tasks, like sending a mail or downloading a bus schedule. Onavo is an app that makes things straight. Installed, it significantly reduces the amount of data needed for everyday tasks like checking email and writing a Facebook post. The technology behind this valuable app is the developer’s secret, but one thing is for sure – it works amazingly well.
Personal travel assistant
Unless you belong to a lucky few who can afford a personal travel assistant, this multifunctional app is surely going to change the way you travel. Before you hit the road, forward all your travel related confirmation emails for booking flights, hotels, rent-a-car, restaurants, etc. to trips@worldmate.com and the app will automatically generate your whole trip plan. If you like WorldMate enough to upgrade to the premium version, it will continue to assist you by giving you real-time updates and alerts reminding you on delayed flights or other changes in your plan.
Business expenses
All travelers, and especially the ones travelling on business benefit from a mobile expense management software like this. If you synchronize it with your credit cards and calendars, it can generate expense reports instead of you, by recording all transactions you make. Trippeo is optimized for use on the go, so it makes booking, tracking, reporting and reimbursement of business travels as simple as downloading a song from iTunes.
Pack like a pro
If you are one of those travelers who always feel they need another suitcase this is the right app for you. Packing Pro is one of the kind app that helps you pack depending on your destination. Just type where you are going and how long you will stay there, and it will generate a list of suggested items that you may want to take. The items are sorted into groups like essentials, clothes, gadgets, cosmetics, and many more. If you input more family members or your boyfriend or girlfriend, the app will make separate lists for them, too.
Hobo code
Although it earned its stripes as a social networking app, FourSquare was developed for travelers who like to go about, exploring the sites they visit from dawn till dusk. It works like a charm – when you arrive at the desire place, pop up the app and there you have a list of tips from those who have visited the location before you. For example if you look up Nicky’s Vietnamese Sandwiches, you can read a tip like “pork chop, pickled carrots, cucumber, cilantro and mayo on a toasted baguette” as a recommendation of a user who ate there. And also, you don’t have to create an account anymore if you want to use this app. Kudos!
Check your App Store or Google Play for these travel apps and start downloading. Your trips will never be the same again.
How To Enjoy A Solo Holiday
Traveling with your friends and loved one is definitely a great way to see the world but sometimes, wouldn’t it be nice if you could just get up and go traveling for a bit on your very own? Continue reading How To Enjoy A Solo Holiday