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Thatched Cottage, Thornton le Dale, Nr Pickering, North Yorkshire, United Kingdom

2021-02-26

Staying In – Places in the UK That Will Make You Feel Like A Foreigner

John Stevens Travel and Restaurant Liverpool, Scotland, travel, travelers, traveling, UK Travelers 0 Comments

With the COVID travel restrictions in many countries like the UK or the US, many people feel like traveling more in their own country instead of abroad. In-country vacations or staycations, these types of travel have become famous due to the travel restriction, which will not disappear so soon. Staycations are again more on the rise, and more Britons decide to stay at home for their vacations. But where in the UK should you go if you’ve never had a staycation or fancy trying something new? Here’s my staycation guide is here to help.

The UK is a busy place full of history, natural beauty, dramatic coastlines, and historic cities. Each corner has such a distinct identity that no two places are alike. Some British destinations even give you a taste of Europe! Here’s how:

Do you love the Algarve? Try Devon

Devon, also called “the English Riviera,” is excellent for families and beach vacations. It’s also home to five areas of outstanding natural beauty, UNESCO sites, and nature parks.

For a cultural city break, visit Plymouth or Exeter, both rich in Roman history. For relaxed coastal living, head to South Devon. For surfing, head to North Devon and Exmoor. And for the real Riviera experience, try Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham. There are also many smaller towns and villages worth exploring if you feel like driving a bit.

Do you like Tuscany? Try Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Cumbria

Northwest England and the Tuscany region of Italy have two things: beautiful green panoramic views and delicious cuisine.

Famous for their artisan food, locally produced produce, and niche eateries, the counties of Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Cumbria will tempt any foodie with their food festivals and farm stores galore. To whet your appetite, you can visit castles, museums, theaters, or coastal towns, or you can go hiking in a landscape so beautiful that Queen Elizabeth is said to have said she would like to retire here.

For the more active traveler, highlights include the Yorkshire Dales, the Pennines, and the Lake District, where you can play all kinds of sports, from golf to sailing and paragliding. Those looking for a quiet retreat can visit smaller market towns such as Kirby Lansdale, Hebden Bridge, or Clitheroe. And if you’re looking for the sea, try Whitby, Scarborough, or Lytham St Annes.

Do you like Switzerland? Try Scotland

If you like mountain ranges, lakes, and some skiing, Scotland is the perfect vacation destination. With beautiful scenery, imposing castles, and interesting towns, both Switzerland and Scotland offer you breathtaking views. Switzerland has some of the most famous ski resorts in the world, Scotland has the best ski resorts in the UK. The Swiss have the alphorn and Schnapps; the Scots have the bagpipes and their world-famous Scotch whisky. The Scottish accent can even make you feel like you’re in a foreign country!

All kidding aside, Scotland is indeed a beautiful country, with an intriguing and grand history, beautiful scenery, and stunning natural areas. Even Her Majesty has a residence here, Balmoral Castle. For a city break, both Glasgow and Edinburgh are famous for their nightlife and culture. And if you like driving, we highly recommend the drive from Glasgow to Dundee. The views are to die for.

Do you like Rome? Try York

Rome’s Italian city is one of the most famous destinations in Europe, known worldwide for its rich history and vibrant culture. In the UK, we owe our small version to the Romans themselves.

Although York existed as a settlement before the Roman invasion, it was declared an important city. Constantine the Great was proclaimed Roman emperor here. Even drinking a pint provides a history lesson in pubs that used to be churches or monasteries. York has become famous in recent years not only for its history but also for its shopping and nightlife, and although the city is much smaller than Rome, there is plenty to do and see.

Do you like Berlin? Try Liverpool

Berlin and Liverpool have a lot in common. Both cities have experienced their share of political and social changes but are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites and cultural capitals of Europe. In the UK, Liverpool is the city with the most galleries and national museums outside of London. It is the birthplace of the Beatles and also has a very strong art scene. It is sometimes said that the Liverpool velvet tracksuit is as infamous as the German beach thong! Liverpool is a vibrant and dynamic city, ideal for any art, fashion, or music lover.

2021-02-25

Wild Cheesecakes Every Foodie Need to Try in Their Life Once

John Stevens Travel and Restaurant Cheesecakes, Dessert Shop, Dessert Shop in Melbourne, travel 0 Comments

In my opinion, as a self-certified foodie, there is no better dessert than cheesecake, and no one can change this unless there is another variety of cheesecake that is made. This layered treat is available in hundreds of different variations that will always surprise your taste buds. There is a lot of delicious cheesecake in different flavours and toppings that range from fruit to whipped cream. If you want a piece of heaven, then the mixture of the rich cream cheese and graham cracker crust is the perfect match.

Moreover, the dessert’s beauty is that it is so simple that the recipe can be altered to unique and wild creations that will leave you wanting for more. Some cheesecakes do not comply with the original form of the original cheesecake. Whether it is bite-sized or on a stick, cheesecake should be every foodie’s top to-go dessert.

Here are my favourites that I’ve loved once I tasted them!

1. Peanut Butter Butterfinger

This might not be a popular one and often considered the most underrated. This cheesecake has an extra crunchy texture that mirrors that of a normal cheesecake crust. Well, I’m not saying this is healthy, but your palate will thank you. With a crust comprised of crushed Oreo cookies and a filling that includes the typical ingredients like sugar and full-fat cream cheese, and cream of peanut butter, this is undoubtedly one of my favourites. Tip in eating – melt the peanut butter and drizzle on it!

2. Red Velvet

My second best is the simple red velvet that is so soft that you can feel it melting in your mouth. Even if this recipe requires a lot of patience, as the cake itself requires some time to bake and another hour to cool down with eight hours to chill, the serving is worth the wait. Perfect for a social gathering or a birthday, the red velvet is a delicacy in the mouth.

3. Caramel Apple

I believe that apple and caramel are meant to be together, and with these two ingredients in the cheesecake, then it’s a bonus! Though apples and caramel remind me of caramel apple, I used to gobble on during my teens. Derived from Paula Dean’s recipe, this cheesecake is adorned with a pie filling crust, which gives it another touch when eating. The topped caramel and pecans nuts give the crunchiness that makes this cheesecake a lot better than others.

4. Samoa Cheesecake

Though the word Samoa does not instantly conjure up the thought of deliciousness but believe me, this recipe is one that you need to try! Some people know it as Caramel Delight. This recipe is belly-filling even when reading it. With a coconut shortbread filling, this cheesecake is often topped with whipped cream, toasted grated coconut and melted chocolate and some drizzle of caramel. Muah, an oomph in the mouth is best to describe this feeling!

5. Deep Fried Cheesecake Bites

This is a variation of cheesecake that I had to have twice to fall in love with it! Derived from America, this cheesecake is a slice that you would want to have in your mouth. With instruction to be eaten hot, this cheesecake is an easy to-go food when you are hungry. Though this cake takes time to be prepared, it is worth it as it leaves you wanting for more! It can be served with any sauce of your choice. You can drizzle them with fresh strawberries, sugar, lemon juice or chocolate sauce.

So, foodies, get your bags ready to visit this fantastic dessert shop in Melbourne! Baby J’s creates fun and unique cheesecakes for everyone.

2021-02-09

Traveling Better in a Post Lockdown World

John Stevens travel COVID-19, Post-Covid Traveling, Post-Pandemic, travel, traveling 0 Comments

It will be hard to look at traveling the same way we did before, everything will be so different now, and still, it will seem normal to us. No matter how it will be, we will see it as better than being confined in our house or apartment. Traveling post-Covid will be a trip like never before, and it will be one of the most memorable ones, yes, even traveling to another country when they are welcoming the new year! There will be a different approach to see the world where compassion and kindness rule before everything else. But it would be best if you were more careful than ever during this time to avoid contracting the virus.

Are you planning to travel soon? Then follow the tips below to travel safely after the lockdown.

1. Travel locally

Choose to explore your country! If you live in the UK or India, there are thousands of places you can travel to. You don’t need a visa, and you can plan a road trip, a train ride, or a bike ride with some friends. Known as a staycation, you get to travel to places you’ve never been before and discover the richness of your country. You also have to spend less than in other countries, and you can bring as much as you want. It is also considered one of the most environmentally friendly ways to travel.

2. Buy less toxic travel products

There is nothing like a global pandemic to remind us that the world around us is not immune to our behavior. Detoxifying the products we bring is healthier for humans and better for the destinations we visit, where water resources and protected natural areas can be negatively impacted by-products like sunscreen and shampoo, and where waste disposal systems struggle to handle plastic waste from cosmetics.

3. Consider other ways to travel

For many of us, the no-fly zone meant an immediate relief from noise pollution and a clearing of the worst air pollution. That forced us to think carefully about where we want to fly and why. Airlines must prioritize their staff’s physical and economic well-being and seize the chance to utilize advanced technology to make flying environmental-friendly and healthier – both for those on the plane and the ground.

4. Consider traveling slowly

We can and should embrace modes of transportation other than flying. Think of travel with the pained, unhurried intensity of Normal People, and you enjoy taking a train or boat or even heading out on two wheels. The delayed gratification and anticipation of traveling this way creates new opportunities to see the world and proves all the cliches about the journey being as important as the destination.

5. Be considerate of the locals

All too often, relationships between tourists and locals are business-like and unbalanced. The fact is that we need each other in this new world order offers the chance to be closer to another and to create more beneficial relationships. These help in symbiotic exchange of money, skills, local knowledge, and experiences. Leaving us all enriched rather than depleted by tourism.

6. Stay in hotels that are close to the community

When our travels focus on forging new connections, it makes sense that the best places to stay are smaller, locally owned, and community-based. Places that are a vital part of a local ecosystem tend to be more environmentally thoughtful as well.

7. No more animals

Regardless of the good and bad sides of wet markets, a greater awareness that animals don’t exist to cater to our whims is an essential part of traveling more consciously. Wild animals get incredibly stressed from the human presence (that photo of the elephant with its ears out is the elephant saying, “Go away, I feel threatened”). It is easy for us to disrupt their natural reproductive or feeding activity simply by our presence. Not touching, not photographing, and, ideally, not eating animals is a huge step in helping to restore the balance of fragile systems and minimize our footprint.

2021-01-15

Things You Need to Know Before You Travel to Kenya

John Stevens travel African, Kenya, Tourism, travel, travelers 0 Comments

Known for Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, Kenya is synonymous with safari as it is one of the few places on the planet that has both the spirit of adventure and romance. Kenya is a country with many hidden facets that will surprise on every trip. There is always something new to discover in Kenya. If you love the incredible scenery, excellent beaches, fantastic hiking, and the many safari possibilities, you might want to visit Kenya. This article will talk about some things you might want to consider before you go to Kenya.

1. Friendly people
First of all, the good thing about Kenya is that people are friendly. They are very open and hospitable. Therefore, you don’t have to be afraid to talk to them. In my experience, people in Kenya are more than willing to give you all the help and support you need.
2. Safe and secure
In recent years, the country has been hard hit by terrorism. As a result, few tourists have come to this country during these years. As a result, the country’s tourism industry is struggling to survive. As a result, they are much more welcoming to visitors than before. Unlike in the past, Kenya has been relatively safe for international visitors. If you still want to feel safe, you can stick to the main tourist itinerary.
3. Ethnic Tensions
Ethnic tensions in Kenya hamper the electoral process and stability. Although you are unlikely to face these types of tensions, you may want to keep this in mind.
4. Road Safety
Because of ethnic tensions and terrorism, the security level is quite high, particularly in public places such as shopping malls and airports. As a result, every person and every car is checked at airports. Individuals are asked to pass through a security gate. Also, their bags are scanned to ensure that they do not contain illegal personnel.

5. Visa
If you wish to travel to Kenya, you can choose from different types of tourist visas. Most people get an East African visa because it allows access to several countries. It is also much cheaper than buying separate visas for other countries, such as Uganda and Rwanda. If you want to obtain this visa, you must apply online. The advantage of using online is that it can save you a lot of time when you arrive at the airport.
6. Low-cost airlines
It is good to know that several low-cost airlines are operating in Kenya, and all of them are safe, cheap, and efficient. You can choose Kenya Airways for your travel in the country. Besides, it also serves several other destinations around the world. Also, it is reasonably priced.
7. Train to Mombasa
If you don’t want to fly from Nairobi to Mombasa, you can take a train. A few decades ago, the train journey took about 14 hours. But this old version has been upgraded to a high-speed version operated by a Chinese company.
It is important to note that you must book your tickets in advance. You can also book your ticket at the train station, which may cost you a little more time.

In short, here are a few tips that you may want to keep in mind if you are visiting Kenya for the first time.

8 Traveling by the Matatus

In Kenya, transport over shorter distances is provided mainly by vans, locally called matatus.
A fun and adventurous trip, usually accompanied by loud African music and reckless driving, is an experience! Alternatively, tuk-tuks and Boda Bodas (motorcycle cabs) can take you to small towns. Both options are cheaper than cabs. Large buses also make longer trips, from Nairobi to Mombasa, for example.

2020-12-30

Opening Up the World of Culture Through Culinary Vacations

John Stevens travel Culinary Travel, travel, travelers, traveling 0 Comments

Unique vacations are on the rise. One of the specialty vacations that many are asking for are culinary tours. Culinary tours allow the holidaymaker to taste the culture while enjoying the best of the food in each culture. Open up the world as you sample the delights of different regions, cities, nations, and continents. Travel abroad to taste the culinary specialties and delicate wines while immersing yourself in a part, area, or country’s lifestyle and culture. Discover the flavors and differences of each unique area. Taste the wine of Vienna or the sweet delicacies of Brazil. The unique flavors of foods from different countries and regions fill the palate with flavor and create memories that last a lifetime.

Taste the world cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culture of the country by tasting the unique flavors and spices of each area. Interact with the culture and society by enjoying a culinary vacation. Most culinary trips involve a small group tasting and enjoying together. Enjoy the laughter and joy of the food as you travel through the most popular areas and even small hidden barely-kept secrets. Culinary vacations are filled with the art of dining and the atmosphere of the community. Culinary vacations are designed with a flexibility that suits the participants.

Guided tours are uniquely provided for the individual, from the budding culinary artist to the knowledgeable traveler. Choose your style of dining. What would you like to taste and enjoy? Within each area lies the power of different culinary arts. Learn the methods to create the best international and national cuisines.

The international cuisine of the United States is tasty and unique. Take a culinary tour to enjoy the ocean’s breeze and unique seafood dishes along the east coast. Enjoy Colorado and the flavor of foods such as premium fresh elk and buffalo steak that view breathtaking mountain scenes. Enjoy New Jersey’s fresh produce grilled to perfection and tossed with fresh cuts of meat. Enjoy an international tour to places like Italy, Australia, or France.

Italy’s flavors can include a Roman dinner or travel through the countryside tasting wines, hand-picked olives, perfected meats, freshly-pressed olive oil, and homemade bread and pasta. The flavors of Italy can’t be imagined. They have to be experienced. An Italian culinary vacation opens you up to the best of Italian cuisine. Italy has some of the best dishes in the world and some of the very best culinary craftsmen. Enjoy dishes made with art and passion. This is a unique journey you will never forget. Your cuisine will forever be the theme of a culinary vacation to Italy.

Enjoy the knowledge you gain during your trip and relax. The culinary art is captured more than it is taught. Catch the art of creating food that will speak of the joy of life. Gourmets enjoy traveling and enjoying the culture through food. Taste the culinary art. The freshest natural products are cooked to perfection in various ways and light up the gourmet’s face. Young and old gourmets enjoy culinary vacations. Culinary vacations are also often enjoyed by couples traveling; enjoy each other’s company during meals and delicacies, talk for hours, and laugh together while enjoying the very best life has to offer in terms of culinary art and food.

It may be worth considering becoming a restaurant critic for those planning to embark on a food journey or adventure. Today, most magazines and publications do not have the budget to hire an internal critic, so they are happy to pay only for each restaurant review. There is only one thing better than tasting all kinds of cuisines while traveling, and that is getting paid to do the same.

2020-12-22

7 Surprisingly Surreal Locations You Won’t Believe Exist Around the World

John Stevens Slow Travel, travel, Travel and Restaurant Amazing Tourist Destination, Surreal Places, travel, Worldwide destinations 0 Comments

From noisy volcanoes pouring rivers of lava into the ocean to gigantic glaciers at the end of the world to huge holes in the seabed… the list of the wonders of nature could go on and on. Here are some of the most fabulous places in the world that continue to amaze and mystify explorers and scientists for the moment.

#1. “The Wave” in Arizona

If the Catalan surrealist Salvador Dalí made nature, then this would be one of his fundamental works. Shades of ocher and amber, overlapping each other since the Jurassic era, form an undulating backdrop that has become a dream for photographers and hikers alike. However, you will need a permit to visit this protected monument.

#2. Prismatica Dam – Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA

This geothermal source’s vibrant colors are the same as the mini rainbow visible when light passes through an optical prism, thus explaining its name. The colors red, orange, yellow, green, and blue are caused by different types of bacteria that live in hot mineral-rich water, which reaches 185F. With a diameter of 370 feet, the hot spring is the third largest of its kind globally.

#3. Deadvlei – Namib Naukluft Park, Namibia

Deadvlei is an acronym for the English word death and the Afrikaans word, vlei, which translates as ’a swamp or a valley between dunes’. The acacias strewn across the decaying landscape here have lain lifeless for more than 600 years, burning skeletons that Mother Nature has not afforded the luxury of decomposing in one of the driest places on earth. This arid corner of the world is also close to some of the world’s tallest dunes, towering 1,200 feet above the desert floor.

#4. Kilauea – The Big Island, Hawaii

The untamed Kilauea volcano has been erupting intermittently since 1983, pouring rivers of molten lava into the Pacific, meeting water in one of nature’s most dramatic marriages. This vehement crash is visible from afar, accolades from various tours providing expert guides to escort you through charred pastures and as close as possible. It is not advisable to wander the area on your own due to the volcanic eruption’s ever-changing nature.

#5. The Great Blue Hole – Belize

Belize’s giant underwater sinkhole was formed during the ice age, seamlessly carved almost circular by the force of nature. On top of being a real feast for the eyes when viewed from above, The Great Blue Hole is also an amazing place to dive! With its rich concentrations of marine life, this place attracts divers from all over the world. However, you must have logged more than 24 dives to try due to the skill required to navigate the dark, stalactite-filled water cave. Alternatively, build your guts and take inspiration from freediving guru Guillaume Néry, who has descended and risen from these depths numerous times.

#6. Lava Falls – Tsavo National Park, Kenya

According to local legend, these newly formed lava flows are the work of the devil himself (“Shetani”), who emerged from the earth a few hundred years ago. Stretching over 60 km across the savannah, this mysterious landscape is as wild as it is in the remote depths of the Tsavo National Park, itself a vast area shrouded in myths and superstitions. Predatory animals here don’t like to be disturbed, so if you leave the safety of your ATV, only do so in the company of a pre-hired park ranger.

#7. Pamukkale – Denizli, Turkey

Pamukkale, poetically translated as “Cotton Castle,” is one of Turkey’s great natural spectacles. The hot springs and vast terraces of white calcium etched into the hillside create a view that looks like a page from a great dream. Be careful, though (barefoot): the calcium terraces here are easily eroded by footwear and bring your bathing suit to take a dip in the clear waters of this UNESCO World Heritage site. While in Pamukkale, you may also want to visit the nearby Roman ruins and the well-preserved museum at Hierapolis, an area that was once an ancient holy city near the natural baths.

2020-12-21

Exploring the Wild Papua New Guinea

John Stevens Travel and Restaurant Oceania, Papua New Guinea, Tourism, travel, travelers, traveling 0 Comments

Papua New Guinea is one of the mega-diverse regions of the Earth in Oceania that occupies the eastern half of New Guinea. The country has an incredibly diverse geographical location. Travelers should exercise a high degree of caution due to the level of serious crime.

Papua New Guinea requires a visa and a passport valid for six months to enter the country. Tourists are advised to obtain a permit before leaving. Be sure to carry a return ticket and proof that you have sufficient funds to enter the country. Visitors can also get their visas upon arrival at Jackson International Airport in Port Moresby. Be careful and prepare sufficiently for an extended stay at airports, as frequent delays are common in domestic and international flight schedules.

With inferior public order, a tense situation remains in the mountainous areas around Bougainville Island and the cities of Lae and Port Morseby. The center of Bougainville, around the old mine of Panguna, is a forbidden area, and tourists are advised not to enter it. Traveling alone in these areas increases the possibility of criminal attacks and sexual harassment. Travelers are advised to be vigilant, especially when arriving at night or in the morning. Try to dress conservatively in public. Local transportation on public buses is not recommended, as they are unreliable due to low maintenance and are a common target for offenders.

Papua Guinea places a high value on its local laws and customs. The country does not provide for dual nationality. Homosexual acts and adultery are illegal, and punishment can include long-term imprisonment.

To begin your exploration of Papua, take a cruise around the island. Many visitors make their vacation a cruise experience. The Sepik Spirit is a great cruise that takes visitors on three or six-night cruises along the Sepik River. It is a great way to explore life along the rivers, which has remained relatively unchanged for centuries.

Papua New Guinea is often called an underwater photographer’s paradise. Some of the most famous underwater photographs have been taken in dives around the island. Under the water, you can see all kinds of corals, including impressive coral walls and gardens, as well as seagrass beds and numerous wrecks from World War II. The waters around Papua New Guinea are warm, and this makes diving available all year round. The beautiful coral reefs in the area are full of the most colorful fish in the world! It is worth learning the sport of diving when visiting this lush island.

Many people come to Papua New Guinea to enjoy jungle walks through the formidable nature. Whatever your skill level, there is a hike or a trek to match on the island. In the Highlands, you can climb high mountains with beautiful views and several volcanoes. You can also take several days and go through the jungle with your private guide. Be sure to keep your eyes open for World War II artifacts, which are hidden all over the island.

If you like wildlife, you will want to take a day to do some birding. The island is the only place where you can see the bird of paradise, and there are almost forty different species of these extraordinarily colorful birds. If you are new to birding, you can take guided tours of some of the rainforests to find the best places to see the colorful birds on the island.

For an extreme island adventure, enjoy rafting down some of the rivers in Papua New Guinea. There are rapids for all skill levels and many companies that will help you get the adrenaline rush of an exciting river trip – another way to see some of the colorful flora and fauna of the island!

When visiting New Guinea, be sure to take time to experience the local culture of the natives. While the island people are continually facing the challenges of modernization, there are many subsistence farms in the highlands that still depend on the culture that has been part of their lives for hundreds of years. There are over a thousand different cultures on the island for you to explore as a diverse island. To find your next adventure, head to the exotic embrace of Papua New Guinea.

2020-12-17

Unearthing the Pearl of the Pacific Ocean: Tuvalu

John Stevens travel travel, travelers, traveling, Tuvalu 0 Comments

Did you ever hear of the smallest country in the Pacific Ocean? Well, be prepared to be lit by this amazing country. Tuvalu is the fourth-smallest country in the world, with an area of only 26 square kilometers. The capital of Tuvalu is Funafuti. This country has impressive coral reefs and lagoons. The spectacular marine environment of Tuvalu’s tourist destinations is one of the main reasons for attracting tourists.

Tuvalu was also known as the Ellice Islands. It is located in the Pacific Ocean somewhere between Australia and Hawaii. It is the third least populated country in the world. Tuvalu consists of nine land masses with a circular shape and is located in the Pacific Ocean’s central region.

Among these nine islands, three are more considerable, and six are smaller in size. There are about 129 islets found here. The nine islands are Niutao, Funafuti, Nukufetau, Nanumaga, Niulakita, Nanumea, Nukulaelae, Nui, and Vaitupu. Here the soil is not suitable for agriculture, and the bodies of water are landlocked. The lagoons are very common in this place.

Tuvalu has a tropical climate. Rainfall is very regular, and the islands are full of water. There are some fish and marine plants found in the surrounding oceans. Coconut trees and pandanus are located in the surrounding water bodies. The Polynesian rat is the only native animal found on the island. Tourism is one of the country’s primary industries and for the right reasons too—people from all over the world visit this beautiful country to see the beautiful beaches.

Funafuti’s beautiful beach attracts many visitors who come here to rejuvenate themselves by sunbathing on the shore. The Polynesians of the island are very friendly, and any tourist visiting the island will indeed spend a day in the beautiful surroundings where the Polynesian people live. The island is famous for the smallness of the land surface and the immensity of the ocean. The island also has many lagoons and smaller islands that add to Tuvalu’s unique atmosphere.

Funafuti’s conservation area, which covers an area of 33 square kilometers, is something that visitors should not miss at all. It includes beautiful reefs, a channel, and six uninhabited islets. All these attractions of the Funafuti Conservation Zone attract tourists from all over the world. If you are looking for a piece of history, then Tuvalu has it too. During World War II, American forces built an airbase on the northeast side of Nanumea, a major tourist attraction today. The scientists’ drilling site on the island of Funafuti is another attraction. Scientists created the place to test Darwin’s theory about atolls. The Philatelic Office of Tuvalu is another attraction that tourists do not want to miss while visiting this country. In the Philatelic Office, you can get stamps that show several facets of Tuvalu’s history. If stamp collection is your hobby, then a visit to this place is a must.

If you are visiting Tuvalu, do not miss the traditional dance of the Polynesian ethnic groups. The country’s national game is the “Tea Year,” and to participate in one of the fun is something that many tourists do.

Funafuti’s beautiful beach attracts many visitors who come here to rejuvenate themselves by sunbathing on the shore. The Polynesians on the island are very friendly, and any tourist visiting the island will surely spend a day in the beautiful surroundings where the Polynesian people live. The island is famous for the smallness of the land surface and the immensity of the ocean. The island also has many lagoons and smaller islands that add to Tuvalu’s unique atmosphere.

So the next time, you are traveling do put this country on your list!

2020-12-07

6 Hawaiian Dishes You Should Try

John Stevens Travel and Restaurant Hawaii, Hawaiian Dishes, Hawaiian Food, Local Food, travel 0 Comments

We all know that Hawaii is a tourist destination famous for its beaches, beautiful landscapes, flower chains and aloha spirit, but it is not a destination recognised for its gastronomy. In it, you can identify a mix of flavours and influences of different cultures, especially Polynesian and Asian, which makes it very interesting.

Around 1800, Hawaii also began to receive large numbers of immigrants, which strongly influenced the cuisine. Hundreds of Japanese, Filipinos, Chinese, Portuguese and Americans came to the archipelago, each bringing something of their culinary tradition, herbs and spices. The result is a diversity of foods, for all tastes and budgets. Not to mention the Hawaiian cultural heritage that is still strongly present in their food today. If you’re in Hawaii, don’t miss the chance to try the different flavours and delicious traditional dishes. Below is a list of 10 foods to try:

1) Poke

We believe that Poke is Hawaii’s most representative dish, and it is our favourite! It is a simple dish to prepare and very fresh, ideal for the hot Hawaiian climate.

It consists of raw tuna cubes, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, served with limu (a kind of Hawaiian seaweed) and kukui nuts, typical Hawaiian nuts. Poke can be found in almost all supermarkets and in at least four varieties, some with spicy mayo, an oyster sauce that is a bit sweeter, with avocado and the traditional Hawaiian version.

2) Lomi Lomi Walm

The lomi lomi salmon is similar to a vinaigrette, but with salmon. They are small cubes of raw salmon, tomato and chopped onions or chives. It is served cold to accompany dishes such as Poke or Lau Lau pork.

3) Lau Lau Pork

The translation of Lau into Hawaiian means “Leaf”, referring to taro leaves, a carrot that is widely consumed in Hawaii and Asia and is essential in the preparation of this typical Hawaiian dish. Apart from the ingredients, the most important thing about this dish is the way it is cooked. Usually, a somewhat greasy piece of meat is wrapped, usually pork, a piece of salted fish and sweet potato, all this inside the taro leaves. It is tied tightly in a sachet which is later cooked for a few hours in an Imu, a typical Hawaiian oven. Some people also cook them for convenience in pressure cookers, in rice baking machines or the oven.

4) Garlic Shrimp

The main attraction of the Food Trucks on the North Shore, the garlic shrimps are nothing but garlic fried shrimps (lots of garlic) and accompanied by rice or pasta! Some also have spicy variations. They are usually medium or large shrimp, served with the shell to get your hand and face dirty!

5) Huli Huli Kip

No, it has nothing to do with a hula hoop or anything like that. Huli in Hawaiian means twist or turn. The secret of this dish is turning the grilled chicken so that it is perfectly cooked and has a smoky taste, without burning the sweet soy sauce in which it is marinated. It’s a food truck and street food hit in Hawaii so you can’t miss it!

6) Açaí

Does this word sound familiar to you? Açaí is a very popular fruit from the Amazon in Brazil. The number one consumers are surfers, as it is a rich source of energy to replenish after exercise, as well as being fresh and very tasty. Are you wondering how is a Brazilian dish on a list of dishes you can try in Hawaii? Well, this is our bonus track for those of you who have made it this far. We are going to tell you where you can taste the real Brazilian açaí in Hawaii, because many restaurant or bar chains serve a gringo version and that is not the original and tastes very different from the real açaí. For those who go to Oahu, they should go to Nalu Health Bar & Caféin Kailua.

Have you ever tried any of these scrumptious dishes? Let us know in the comments below!

2020-12-04

6 Reasons to Choose Canada as Your Next Travel Destination

John Stevens Travel and Restaurant Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia, Canada, Fork York Motel, holidays, Maple Syrup, The Bay of Fundy, travel, vacations 0 Comments

Are you considering a winter trip? Summer is coming to an end, and it’s time to think about a winter trip. Of course, many countries are at your disposal, but Canada is an ideal destination for its exuberant beauty, people, and tranquillity. Here are some reasons why you should visit this incredible country:

1) Attractive Cities and Magical Scenery

Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Ottawa… Canada’s major metropolises are as dynamic as they are pleasant. What’s more, if you’re looking for opportunities to work or study in these cities, each of them offers an excellent quality of life to complement your academic and professional side.

If you are a nature lover, then Canada is the perfect destination for you. With its vast spaces and endless green areas, this country is made for you. From Quebec to British Columbia, you can enjoy national parks, lakes, mountains and glaciers, and extensive flora and fauna. A visit to the Banff National Park or Niagara Falls is not to be missed, depending on the region you visit.

2) Helps You Improve Your English or Your French

A Canadian vacation already sounds interesting, but a slightly longer season sounds even more enjoyable. As you probably already know, they have two official languages: English and French. You can take advantage of the opportunity to take a language course in Canada with all the benefits of learning English or French abroad. You won’t regret it! This is a unique experience to grow professionally and personally.

3) Warm and Friendly People

We continuously hear that Canadians are friendly and hospitable. You may think this is a stereotype or an exaggeration, but you will realize how respectful, friendly and open the locals are when you visit Canada. And as if that wasn’t enough, they’re always ready to help if you need them!

If you don’t believe us, take a look. Stand in the corner of Canada with a map in your hand, and you’re sure to find someone to help you.

4) Maple Syrup

Shouldn’t this be the first reason to travel to Canada? Maple syrup or syrup is one of the most delicious natural phenomena. It takes about 40 litres of juice to produce one litre of maple syrup. That’s a considerable amount and the main reason why Canadians treat this nectar as if it were gold.

You know you can’t stop visiting the locals and eating maple syrup over waffles, bacon, meat, chicken, eggs, salads, and just about any food that comes in your mouth!

5) Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia

The 300 kilometres long Cabot Trail (Nova Scotia) winds its way up through the coastal mountains with beautiful ocean views at every turn, whales coming out of the water off the coastline, and numerous paths to stop and explore on foot. The area is also dotted with Celtic and Akkadian communities (descendants of the French who settled in the 18th century), and their rhythmic violin music is played in local pubs.

6) The Bay of Fundy

The Bay of Fundy is not very common, although it is surrounded by lighthouses, fishing villages and other classic maritime features. Fundy’s unique geography generates the world’s most extreme tides and provides food for the endangered North Atlantic right whales, as well as the blue whales, who also come to the feast. It is extraordinary to watch the cetaceans here.

If you’re planning your next holiday or business trip to Canada, Fork York Motel provides well-designed and equipped motel rooms for your stay in the country. They have other 40 rooms and you can even smoking and non-smoking rooms! Contact them for more information!

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