travel

2020-08-27

Traveling to Iceland: 6 Stunning Places to Visit

John Stevens travel Husavik and Akureyri, Iceland, Jökulsárlón, Mývatn Lake, The Golden Circle, The Incredible Geysers, travel, traveling, Traveling to Iceland 0 Comments

Iceland, literally land of ice, is an island state perched on the northern edge of Europe. The country is situated between Greenland and Norway, geographically closer to the American continent, but historically and culturally linked to Europe. But what to do, what to see and what to visit in Iceland?

1) Horseback Rides

The Icelandic horse is the best-known animal in Iceland. Easily recognized by its small size and strong physique, it is an animal known for its ability to cross rough terrains and perform five gaits (ways of walking). They are also a unique breed that is locally protected and cannot be mixed with other species. There are numerous farms and equestrian societies that offer various horseback riding tours to make your visit to Iceland a memorable and enjoyable one!

2) The Golden Circle

Almost all travellers visiting Iceland wish to see the Golden Circle. Indeed, it is a very touristic area that is worth the detour. You can visit the Gullfoss waterfall and the Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the Icelandic Parliament was held from the 10th to the 15th centuries.

3) Visit the Mývatn Lake in Northern Iceland

Lake Myvatn is an absolute gem in the north of Iceland. In the region, you can visit the pseudo-craters of Skútustaðagígar, the geothermally active Námaskarð Pass and even Dimmuborgir, which are zones of unique volcanic rock formations with an alluring beauty!

4) The Incredible Geysers in Iceland

This is one of the best known natural sites in the country. If you visit Geysir, you will see the Strokkur geyser, which gushes its sheaves of water up to 20 meters above the ground every 5 to 8 minutes. However, the big geyser only spouts out two or three times a day, although it is the most famous one in the world. The region’s natural beauty is moulded by the earth; fumaroles (the opening in or near volcanoes), mud ponds, hot springs, and other small geysers all around. The soil itself is strikingly colorful with elements such as sulphur (yellow), iron (red) and copper (green).

5) Jökulsárlón

Situated between Skaftafell and Höfn, Jökulsralón is a real beauty! This lake formed as an outlet of more gigantic glaciers is 200 m deep and emerges as the tongue of the Vatnajökull, which is the largest ice cap in the country. The Jökulsárlón is like a polar landscape with icebergs of black and blue reflections. This site is to be seen, preferably at the end of the day, with low light. You can be sure the view will be picturesque! On the other side, you can also see the black sand beach on which blocks of ice have been stranded.

6) Husavik and Akureyri

Did you know that Iceland is home to some of the largest sea monsters on the planet? For those of you who wish to visit Iceland, don’t miss out on some whale watching. Icelandic cetaceans have impressive dimensions: 25 to 33 meters long and 110 to 190 tons for the blue whale (the largest globally), 25 meters long and 50-80 tons for the fin whale and 25 to 40 tons and 13 to 17 meters long for the humpback whale. The areas where you can observe the whales are mainly in the north of the country and the west, in the fjords. The chances to see a cetacean jumping out of the ocean are more than 90%! For that, go and visit Husavik, Akureyri – the capital of northern Iceland -, Hauganes, Dalvík and Reykjavik (cruise departures).

Did you like our choices for things to do in Iceland? What did you manage to experience from our list? Let us know in the comments below!

2020-08-20

8 Effective Ways to Help Get Rid of Your Fear of Traveling

John Stevens travel Fear, First-timers Traveling, travel, Travel Anxiety, Travel Fears, travelers, Traveling tips, Travelling 0 Comments

Have you been longing to travel, but you’ re too scared of it? Don’t let this terror of traveling cripple you and stop you from living out your dreams. Instead, try to get to know your fears and act to mitigate its effects and even conquer them! Here are some tips that you can put into practice to help overcome your fears.

1) Conquer Your Fears

Face the emotion, instead of fleeing from it. The human brain is perturbed by the idea of stepping out of a routine, it’s natural. Allow this fearful emotion to show up, feel it, and accept it so that you can control it and gradually let go of it.

2) Take Little Steps

The most common and best-known example of travel anxiety is transportation anxiety. Some means of transportation provoke more stress than others, notably planes. To alleviate your fear and anxiety, the first step is to come out of your comfort zone by heading out for new discoveries. You don’t have to fly directly to an unfamiliar country; instead you can start by catching a train for a weekend in a part of your neighborhood that you haven’t yet explored. With so many wonderful places, you’ll have an array of choices to start your first little journey.

3) Distract Your Mind

Minimize the amount of time you spend worrying about the hazards that might occur while traveling. For instance, the less time you spend on interpreting every noise and monitoring each move while being on a plane, the better it is. Instead, you can play games, read, enjoy all the movies you can get your hands on, or tune in to your favorite music for as long as possible. If you don’t like any of these things, sleeping and eating are also excellent ways to help distract your mind and kill time.

4) Share Your Fears

At times, sharing your concerns with your nearest seat neighbors or a flight crew member brings relief. Let them know what they can do to help you. Perhaps you will prefer to be alone, or you may need somebody to help guide you through the flight and remind you to breathe deeply. Flight attendants are trained to assist anxious passengers and can help ease the process.

5) Do Not Consume Alcohol

While a few alcoholic drinks can sometimes build up courage, it is better to refrain from drinking before a flight. It causes excitement but fails to help relax and stay calm in case of stress. Alternatively, this might intensify anxiety and render flights uneasy for you and your fellow passengers as well.

6) Focus on What’s in Store for You Upon Arrival

From the fantastic tapas in Barcelona and the amazing sushi in Tokyo to the coffee drinking in the heart of Notting Hill, as you watch the passers-by, these are the kind of delights you’ll experience at the end of this much-feared trip. Concentrating on things as such can help change your thoughts and remember that the journey is worth it.

8) Opt for an Aisle Seat

An aisle seat can be reserved on most airlines from their booking engines. If you are afraid of flights, request an aisle seat, especially if you suffer from claustrophobia. This will lessen the feeling of being trapped by others and will make it more convenient for you to move around in the cabin. By doing so, you will also avoid looking by the window if this makes you feel anxious.

We hope that these few tips can help. However, if the anguish is too overwhelming, a psychologist or psychiatrist is required. The group meetings and therapy sessions conducted by professionals in the field can help you deal with your anxiety.

2020-06-19

10 Reasons to Make Puerto Vallarta Your Next Travel Destination

John Stevens travel Gay hotels in Puerto Vallarta, Hotels in Puerto Vallarta, travel, traveling, Traveling to Mexico, Traveling to Puerto Vallarta 0 Comments

We all love traveling, and this current situation has confined us into dreaming of the day when we will get to travel about and around the world. As the world has come to a stop, I started browsing through a lot of traveling websites and I discovered a lot of new places and hotels where I could reside when getting their one day. From Asia to Africa and stopping in South America, I was quite pleased to have browsed those websites. One particular place that caught my attention was Puerto Vallarta in Mexico, this place is paradise on this earth! So, ladies and gentlemen, here I present you Puerto Vallarta, a perfect get-away for you and your loved ones. If you need more reasons why you need to go to Puerto Vallarta, then here we go!

1. Climate

Warm during the winter and humid in the summer, Puerto Vallarta has the perfect location on the map; just below the desert, but not too much as to make the tropical heat unbearable. In fact, it is right on the 20° North Latitude below the Tropic of Cancer, that is right same as Hawaii. Puerto Vallarta combines the lushness of the jungle with the beauty of the Sierra Madre Mountains and the wonder of the Pacific Ocean. The ocean breeze and the fresh mountain air combine with the unrivaled sunny days Mexico is known for, to create the best weather in the world. It is no wonder why Puerto Vallarta has become a favorite vacation spot. Vallarta boasts three hundred sunny days a year, some of those being hot summer days that then get a refreshing rain. If you are ever in Puerto Vallarta anytime from the beginning of November through to the end of May, you will find yourself in a paradise hard to leave behind.

2. Great value for your money

While it is a commonly known fact that the peso is worth less than the dollar, be it US or Canadian, you never truly appreciate it quite as much as when you vacation in Mexico. Being on vacations and knowing that your hard-earned money can buy you twice as much fun as it could back home is simply refreshing. And for those lucky enough to be permanent vacationers whose retirement dollars allow them a life equal or better to what they had back home when they still worked, it is simply incredible. Getting more for less is good on anyone’s book, but when talking real estate this is simply great. One can get a beautiful home for the price of a New York studio. On top of that, Puerto Vallarta has a large array of first class real estate developments, from stunning penthouses, state of the art smart homes on the beach to rustic homes on the mountain side, many built with Americans and Canadians in mind so just make your choice and become one of those people on vacations for life.

3. Stunning beaches

Whether you are an adrenaline junkie looking to do some kite surfing or simply someone that likes to lay by the water being tended to, Puerto Vallarta has the right beach for you. Many of those beaches have been certified by the Mexican Government for their cleanliness and beauty. By the north end of the Bay you can find fine sand beaches that extend for kilometers. On the other end you find small island coves only accessible by water. Imagine taking your loved one by water taxi to a private beach cove and spending a romantic afternoon. Puerto Vallarta’s beaches are waiting for you to come and lay by their waves.

4. Amazing mountains

This is what puts Puerto Vallarta in a completely different league from other vacation destinations. It is not the typical Mexican resort destination with exquisite beaches and luxury hotels, I mean, it does have those things, but the Sierra Madre Mountains and their tropical forests with lush jungle vegetation, give the town a completely different atmosphere, far away from the “just beach and nothing else to do” kind of destination. The beauty of this vacation destination spawns from the fact that the bay is nestled in the Sierra Madre Mountains. They surround the bay like a mother’s bosom protecting it and offering magnificent views. There is nothing that compares to watching the sun rise in the mountains every day and set in the Pacific Ocean. During the summer season the rains make the surrounding mountains glow an emerald green that is difficult to explain by mere words. A hike up the mountain trails will take you to a time long before when mankind was one with nature and you to will feel its beckoning. The vegetation and the bird calls combine to the mystic feel of being surrounded by mountains.

5. Mexican Culture

You just cannot get bored with it. The mixture of indigenous traditions with Spaniard customs has produced an amazingly rich culture, an explosion of color, spirituality, flavors, images and sounds that will never stop impressing you. Slowly discovering the little idiosyncrasies of this beautiful culture is one of the best rewards for visiting Puerto Vallarta and once you start to understand Mexican culture, you will only want to learn more. But don’t look only for the exotic side of it, the “Día de Muertos” or the religious pilgrimages, for instance, even when those celebrations are actually quite impressive, there are is much more to discover on the day-today life of Mexico. You might travel for the beaches and just to have some relaxing vacations, but if you are open to it, Mexican Culture will surprise you.

6. The people

You have to travel a lot in order to be qualified to compare people and cultures. Well, I have done it, and I can tell you that, there are no warmer people in the world. Mexicans always smile, they always say “please” and “thank you”, they will kiss and hug you, so be prepared; they will touch you all the time, they are a happy people and they like to show it. You will have a lot of fun around them, they will make you feel at home, you just have to let go and learn from their laid-back and unpretentious attitude towards life. This way to understand life, where people work to live and not live to work, might be arguable, but for a place like Puerto Vallarta, where people travel to forget for a while about the problems of daily life, it’s just perfect.

7. Things to do

There is almost everything to do, except maybe those boring winter games that include snow and cold, Puerto Vallarta offers to visitors a formidable variety of activities. Eco-tours, golf (7 courses), ATV’s, scuba diving, canopy, whale-watching, swimming with dolphins or sea lions, a theater, museums, plenty of art galleries, gourmet restaurants, festivals (film, food, wine), surfing, botanical gardens, old towns to visit, a zoo, lots of discotheques and nightclubs, and much, much more. I am telling you; this place is worth the trip. Whether your dream vacation consists of lounging by the beach or zipping from tree top to tree top Vallarta has it. If you want to enjoy a five-star gourmet dinner or just have tacos at a stand, this is the right place to come. The culture scene the little coffee shops in old town add to the incredible allure of this great city. Many visitors come because the large array of Puerto Vallarta tours and activities.

8. Accessibility from USA and Canada

Accessibility is not to be forgotten when planning a vacation. There are some other incredible corners in the world, but somehow, they are always plenty of flight hours to Puerto Vallarta. Many cities in the US and Canada have direct flights to Puerto Vallarta, making it so easy and cheap to come down there, that it makes it even harder to invent excuses for not spending a week or maybe just a weekend in such a beautiful place. Puerto Vallarta is just a three hours flight from Los Angeles, and that is all it takes to feel like you are in a complete different world, the mountains, the rivers and the ocean make their presence felt at every corner, but you won’t miss civilization a bit, as luxury hotels have everything in place to make you feel at home.

9. Services

This point is mentioned quite a lot by the large expat community in Puerto Vallarta (nearly 50,000 and growing). One of the biggest fears of those moving abroad USA and Canada is that they might not get the same quality services at the places they move to. But that is just not the case with Puerto Vallarta, as the city has defined its identity as a perfect place for retirees and developed the proper infrastructure to please them. You will find excellent medical services, a big focus on security, a diversity of financial businesses and all kinds of information and technology services, such as high-speed internet, digital cable TV and everything to help you avoid missing home while you are on vacations in Mexico.

10. The nightlife

Especially on Spring Break, but not limited to it. The “Malecon”, a beautiful boardwalk by the beach, has been called “Puerto Vallarta’s Bourbon Street” because it has club after club open all night long. World famous club brands as Hard Rock Café, Señor Frog’s or La Bodeguita del Medio (where Hemingway used to go in Havana), compete with local clubs such as Mandala, Zoo or Punto V, to see who throws the best party in town. There is the world famous “Foam Party” at Collage every Tuesday and many salsa discos to feel the Latin vibe. Puerto Vallarta also has its own share of electronic festivals with some of the best DJs in the world, playing outdoors till dawn, with people dancing and jumping in the sand just a few steps away from the ocean.

If you are looking for a hotel to reside in during your vacation, then head to Boana Torre Malibu. One of the biggest gay condo-hotels that also welcomes heterosexuals in Puerto Vallarta. They are ideally located near the famous Playa Los Muertos, a gay beach known around the world.

2020-02-06

Stumbling Upon the Beauty of Japan

John Stevens travel, Travel and Restaurant Japanese beauty, Japanese food, travel, Travel to Japan, traveling 0 Comments

South Korea, Japan, these two countries are my two favorites in the East Asia part. I have always heard stories about Japan, its beauty, its structures, and its endless traditional architecture. Embarking on a journey to Japan is a dream of mine, and it’s soon to become a reality. From Tokyo to Osaka, this country never seems to end with the surprises while traveling. Japan is a unique country with its beautiful architecture and contrasting culture compared to the United States. I think we can all agree that Japan is an exciting and extraordinary trip. So, here is my list explaining why I want to visit Japan, and why you should too.

1. The Stunning Architecture

Japan has tons of beautiful and ancient temples and shrines. The city of Kyoto has around 2,000 Buddhist temples and shrines within the city limits. That number alone is impressive for just one city. Japan also provides thousands of endless Torii gates leading you up a mountain. Talk about getting a workout while exploring another culture. Japan is a perfect mix of culture, history, and modern comfort. There are skyscrapers, trendy restaurants, and everything else you can come across in the modern world. But, Japan does have it’s own unique, modern style and can’t be compared with any other advanced country.

2. How Clean Everything Is

You won’t see any trash or litter anywhere. The Japanese take great pride in their cleanliness, respecting their surroundings. Everything in Japan is super, super clean. You’ll never find any litter on the streets anywhere, for that matter. Every hotel and accommodation we stayed at always smelled rosy clean, and every restaurant table is efficiently cleaned before we sit down.

3. Their Food Is Cuter Than Your New Puppy

Have you even seen their food? It’s absolutely adorable! Just imagine some foods I’m about to describe to you: pandas made of rice in curry, marshmallow cats in your coffee, sleeping bear rice, cat donuts, bunny bread, and Chewbacca noodles (for all you Star Wars fans).

4. Kit Kats Come In SO Many Flavors

Being the huge Kit Kat fan that I am, just knowing the fact there are hundreds of flavors makes my mouth water uncontrollably. Let’s keep talking about food a bit longer. Because, well, I love food and Japan is an excellent place for foodies. KitKats are available in all kinds of flavors in Japan. Strawberry, pear, citrus golden blend, cinnamon cookie, strawberry cheesecake, wasabi and many more! Yes, also matcha! Really try out some of those crazy flavors!

5. The Beautiful Natural Landscape

Japan is perfect for nature lovers; the land looks like it was created by angels. Everything is perfectly placed as if it were planned, but nope. That’s just the beauty of Japan; including Mount Fiji, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, gardens, trails, and pretty much anywhere you look.

6. Seeing The Whole Country Covered in Cherry Blossoms

Cherry blossoms only last for two weeks in Japan, so I definitely need to go during that time. If you wanna experience a magical moment, go see those Cherry blossoms.

7. Experiencing The Weird And Wonderful Side Of Tokyo

Cat Cafes, Karaoke Bars, Pokemon Center, and Robot Restaurants… Do I need to mention more?

8. Ancient Japanese Culture

Next to the wacky side of Japan is the amazing culture that they hold so dearly to themselves. Their culture dates back to thousands of years ago; with many of the oldest aspects withstanding the test of time! Kyoto is the best place to witness geisha history, especially in the Gion district. The ancient Japanese culture is really interesting, and it has been around for thousands of years. Even now the culture and heritage is very prominent in the country. During your visit in Japan you can learn a lot about the history by visiting castles, temples, shrines and more. Especially Kyoto is a perfect destination if you want to experience the ancient Japanese culture.

9. The Toilets

Toilets?! I know. I know, but just hear me out on this one. The toilets are the most hygienic ones you will ever use. Yeah, I’ve heard it’s a little weird getting used to, but once you do, it’s a great experience. Of course, staying in a different country will need some getting used to. Plus, the toilets talk to you! (Only in Japanese, though!)

10. Getting Lost Is Half The Fun

Many people have said when you visit a different country it is best to lose yourself. Literally. You’ll end up finding things you’ve never imagined; see sites a lot of tourists haven’t. Just get lost and enjoy the magic that is Japan.

11. One of the safest countries

Japan is one of the safest countries to travel in the world. According to Worldatlas.com, Japan was in the top 10 of the World’s Safest Countries in 2017. What makes Japan so safe? For one thing, Japan puts a strong focus on crime prevention, with measurements such as ATM’s inside buildings or banks and the fact that firearms aren’t readily available.

12. Be a foodie in Japan

It is known that Japan is more than only ramen and sushi! Japanese food is all about taste, spices, and cooking. Japan has more amazing food than only ramen or sushi! For instance, try the Okonomiyaki pancakes, made with cabbage and topped with a variety of options. This can be anything from meat to seafood! Other food to try in Japan are Soba noodles, Yakiniku barbecue, Tempura, Sukiyaki, and Yakitori.

13. One of the most beautiful cherry blossoms

One of the most popular times to visit Japan is during spring. This is, of course, because of the amazing pink cherry blossoms that cover the streets. But not only the trees start to blossom when spring approaches, everything else in Japan turns into “sakura” mode. Think fake cherry blossom flowers in stores, cherry blossom drinks and even food.

Alright! So, that was my top reasons why I want to visit Japan and why you should too. If I missed anything, or if you have another reason to share, please let me know. Thanks for reading and have a kireina (Beautiful) Day!

2019-12-29

Top 10 Food You Can’t Miss When Travelling to Australia

John Stevens Travel and Restaurant Australia, foodie, foods, travel 0 Comments

From Thai cuisine to Indian cuisine and Mediterranean cuisine, multicultural Australia is heaven for all foodies out there. With the wide range of options Australia offers its inhabitants and tourists, you will be hard-pressed to not find something that suits your tastes. You are almost 100% sure to find at least one thing from your native country.

But although these dishes and food are now part of the Australian culture, Australia’s culinary history cannot lay claim to some of these food items. Below you will find a list of 10 common foods that are typically Australian. Some of these may surprise you as you may recognize them as originating from other countries! But they are dishes that Australians have adopted and adapted to make them truly theirs. If you’re travelling around Australia, you really should try some of these!

1. Vegemite

Cliché as it is, we can’t talk about the most common Australian food without mentioning Vegemite. The thing with Vegemite is you either love it or hate it with the intensity of a thousand suns. I have to say –I personally enjoy it.

And even though some people say it’s an acquired taste, in my experience, people who hate it have simply not used it properly. It’s not just about applying and even spread of Vegemite (looks like Britain’s marmite but really is not the same) on your toast. The layer must also be very thin. This is not Nutella – it’s salty. The more you apply, the less likely it is you’ll like it.

2. Witchetty Grubs

There are no two ways about it. If you really want to experience some proper Aussie Bush Tucker – then a Witchetty Grub is the way to go. Indigenous Australians have eaten these for thousands of years. It does not get more authentic than this! Some say it tastes like chicken and others will tell you it is more nutty-flavoured. Regardless, it is jampacked with protein and if not the experience, you may want to give it a try for its nutritional benefits.

3. Vanilla Slice

Not Australian. Is that what you are thinking? Yes, we know. It originated in France and is called ‘mille-feuille’. But technically, the Australian can claim ownership of the vanilla slice as they updated it and turned it into a vanilla-custard-filled, multi-layered pastry that’s dusted with icing sugar. Just as with the funnel cake, Aussies offer them with many flavouring options.

4. Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts are native to eastern Australia. These nuts can both be eaten raw and be included in a variety of dishes. These dishes can range from anything such as bread to lamb roasts and cakes. Macadamia nuts are really a versatile nut and are perfect during spring.

5. Emu

Tall and majestic, Emu is native to Australia and is the largest bird in the continent. It’s also the second-largest bird in the world, behind the ostrich. Whether smoked or served cold, this virtually fat-free meat is delectable. To top it off, it has a few times the iron content of beef and is low in cholesterol. If you want to go fancy, you can also have it in a pie made up of emu meat, smoked emu, feta cheese, red wine, sun-dried tomato, onion and Tasmanian black pepper.

6. Pavlova

The Kiwis may not like seeing the Pavlova cake on this list. Australia and New Zealand have shared rivalries for years and this rivalry extends to the culinary world as well – both the Aussies and the Kiwis have forever fought for the title as the “inventor’ of the Pavlova. Regardless of its origin, this meringue cake base topped with whipped cream and fruit is absolutely delicious!

7. Fairy Bread

Okay, we admit that this one is a bit strange. And you are not likely to come across it in a pastry shop. You probably won’t come across it unless you happen to find yourself at a kids’ party. It’s rather simple and you can even try making it on your own – it’s simply white bread with lathered with butter and sprinkled with hundreds and thousands!

8. Anzac Biscuits

ANZAC biscuits are Australian food with a back story. First thing first: ANZAC stands for the “Australian and New Zealand Army Corps” and Members of the ANZAC fought in WWI. During that period, wives baked biscuits using ingredients such as rolled oats, flour, sugar, desiccated coconut, golden syrup, butter, bicarbonate of soda and water. Not only were they cheap to make but they could also stay fresh for a long time, even on long boat journeys. The ANZAC biscuit is, therefore, a crunchy commemoration of the men that fought for the country.

9. Kangaroo

Kangaroo meat is quite popular in Australia and can be found on supermarket shelves and restaurant menus. This lean red meat is healthy and a must-have.

10. Barramundi

Barramundi, literally translated as “large-scaled silver fish”, is a type of seabass found in Australia and the Indo-Pacific. Served in restaurants across the country, the Barramundi is another food item you have to add to your must-try list

2019-12-24

A Guide to Kyrgyzstan

John Stevens travel A Guide to Kyrgyzstan, travel, travelers, traveling, Traveling to Kyrgystan 0 Comments

The barren, hot, and impoverished fields of the Kyrgyzstan Republic used to be a sleepy back border of the Soviet Union. Now, it is the best kept secret for travelers and tourism. Kyrgyzstan has become a vivacious nation that is no longer defined by dominating powers, having proven this recently by temporarily ousting its president and the entailing capitalist government. National tourist promotions state Kyrgyzstan as meaning “40 towns”, but locals recommend it to be not so. Kyrgyzstan from the sound of its name elicits an impression of a strange and mysterious place unknown to the world for the most part, but the name which actually means in Kyrgyzstan “immortal” or “indestructible” suggests an interesting culture that would name its nation such. Kyrgyzstan has the most liberal tourist visa policies in Central Asia and an economy to match Kazakhstan’s prowess.

Geography & Climate

Kyrgyzstan (42 52 N, 74 36 E) is a mountainous region dominated by the Tien Shan range, which in Kyrgyz means “Celestial mountains”. The traveler will find wild and rugged snow-capped mountains that give an admiration surpassing that of the Swiss Alps. And with 93% of the region mountainous, the nation is a wonderful place to be for nature-lovers. The republic is also a site for glaciers and high altitude lakes, the highest point being Jengish Chokusu at a height of 7,439 meters which is absolutely beautiful for hiking. The lowest point is 132 meters above sea level, the Kara Daryya. The climate is dry continental to polar in Tien Shan, temperate in the north foothill zone, and subtropical in the southwest, at Fergana Valley.

People & Culture

Of the 5,431,747 Kyrgyztanis in 2009, the Kyrgyz (Turkic group) comprise a fat demographic of around 70% of the population. Uzbeks (14.5%) are concentrated in the south, and the Russians (9%), in the north. The sizable minority of Russians in the region explains the culture that remains and, also RUSSIAN as the official language. KYRGYZ, on the other hand, is the language of the state used in the parliament and at home. ENGLISH is spoken for its deemed significance and has been given the spotlight in education since the 1960’s, but English is widely spoken by the Kyrgyzstani youth who have been taught since primary school or have been learning the language as exchange students in the UK. or Germany. Kyrgyzstan is a largely Islamic with 76% of the country as Muslims, while Russian Orthodox followers have a significant population of 20%. As a semi-nomadic society, agriculture is an important sector of the republic where livestock is the largest agricultural activity.

Attraction

Still a lot of the big cities are modern like Bishkek. Nonetheless, the charm of Kyrgyzstan depends on its nature culture. The stunning beauty of Kyrgyzstan appeals to the traveler who mostly loves the outdoors. Song-kul’s simplistic life among the grandiose of its pristine pastures and Lake Izzyk-kul’s versatility for sailing, surfing, boating, scuba diving and fishing are the main attractions of Kyrgyzstan. Izzyk translates to “hot” because it is the lake that never freezes even in winter seasons. Hiking is just superb in the hills around this lake. What a sight! The best part about Kyrgyzstan, there is no traffic. The rationale: public transport is a developing concept in these parts. The people of Kyrgyzstan make travel even more worthwhile with their naturally generous and respectful nature, so a traveler should know when planning to stay with a Kyrgyzstani family. Hospitality is uber important to the Kyrgyz people, which is why the Kyrgyzstanis host their guests in a generous manner to a point where they will offer you anything and everything they have.

Food

Food is a significant part of Kyrgyz hospitality and might it be said that Kyrgyz cuisine is one of the best offerings you’ll get out of such hospitality. Meat is a primary ingredient in any Kyrgyz meal like horse meat or mutton. There are numerous dessert recipes in the Kyrgyz cuisine that are universal in Central Asia like meat dumplings (manty), noodles and meat (besh barmak), meat and veggie soup (shorpa), or fried meat and rice (paloo). And a Kyrgyz meal never ends without simple delicious desserts, from a nan-and-cream cheese/jam combo or fresh fruits to the most popular choymo tokach or tan mosho cookies made of intertwined leavened dough, fried in oil, and powdered with sugar. Khalvaitar is another ultra-delightful dessert is khalvaitar from mixing flour with sugar fried in sheep’s tail fat. Chak-chak, made of dough sugared with honey is also very popular in Kyrgyzstan or bliny, a Russian dessert of pancakes filled with cheese or jam. In Kyrgyzstan, less is indeed more.

Medications & Vaccination

There are no vaccination prerequisites to enter Kyrgyzstan. Import of medicine for personal use include some restrictions: it is prohibited to import illegal drugs. In case you need to take medical drugs that are restricted, we recommend you to declare on entry/exit, and hold doctor’s prescription handy.

Travel Insurance for Kyrgyzstan

It’s not mandatory to have travel insurance if you are traveling to Kyrgyzstan. However, if you’re planning on doing activities such as horseback riding and doing some treks in the mountains, it’s always a good idea to have international travel insurance!

2019-12-11

6 Risky Places to Travel to in the World

John Stevens travel Afghanistan, Antarctica, Danger, Dangerous Places, Ilha da Queimada, Madagascar, Miyakejima, Mount Everest, Risky Places, Threat, travel, Travelling 0 Comments

Thanks to the ease of traveling, it’s now easier to visit various places around the world. Nonetheless, anywhere you go, there will always be some risks. From scary lands, disaster-prone areas to war-shattered countries, here are 6 of the most dangerous places to travel to in the world.

1. Afghanistan

Traveling to Afghanistan is life-threatening because of critical levels of terrorist attacks, kidnappings, suicide bombings, hostage-taking, and many other menacing problems. The recurrence of these attacks continues to rise, with many killed and wounded across the country. These strikes take place with little or no warning and mostly target buildings like foreign embassies, commercial entities, schools, hospitals, public gatherings, tourist locations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), residential compounds, mosques, and so on. Due to attacks on places like clinics, medical facilities become extremely limited. A few private clinics are good enough for minor health issues. However, if you are significantly sick or injured, medical evacuation would be required. Very often, evacuation recourse is also restricted because of geographic constraints, lack of infrastructure, and absence of security.

2. Madagascar

Despite its reputation of being an off the beaten track destination to travel to, the increased unemployment rates in Madagascar makes it a dangerous place to be. Political turmoils contributing to unemployment issues result in many crimes, specifically robberies and muggings. There are several cases of “smash and grab robberies” where thieves target vehicles stuck in traffic. Local villagers often also block the way by placing debris on the roadway and in turn offer to assist drivers for monetary compensation. Some commit theft from the car and others take the vehicle itself. Some areas, specifically the Avenue de L’independance, are full of aggressive beggars and street vendors. Most of them do not have the intention to harm but can be pushy and irritating in their sale pitch. Many times you’ll have to answer them a dozen times before they understand that you do not want to buy anything.

3. Mount Everest

Located in the sub-range of the great Himalayas, Mount Everest is the world’s highest mountain at 29,035 feet, that is, 8848 meters high. However, the highest mountain peak is an object of fascination for many explorers. Many people risk their lives for this deadly climb. The most common cause of death on Mount Everest is falling. Since it has ridges and soaring cliffs, climbers often lose their grip and fall over the edge. The weather is also a significant problem, with its wind speed being above 100 mph and the temperature from 10°C to -24 °C. For instance, in 2014, 16 people were killed on the southeastern face of Mount Everest by an ice avalanche. Others died due to overcrowding, scarcity of equipment like oxygen tanks, and other insufficient safety factors as well.

4. Antarctica

Traveling to Antarctica is unsafe for humans and can effortlessly be deadly. If you’re in Antarctica, the first thing you will have because of its freezing temperatures is frostbite, a cold injury due to prolonged exposure to low temperatures. This occurs as your body tries to conserve warmth to core organs and stops pumping blood to other parts. For instance, the hands and feet are mostly affected since they receive less blood supply. Other dangers include crevasses, the deep crack in ice sheets or glaciers where the ice is brittle. Sometimes crevasses are covered by snow which makes them invisible and cause humans to fall into it. Weighing up to 590 kg, the leopard seal can also be a threat to humans. Moreover, in 2003, the marine biologist Kirsty Brown was killed by a leopard seal that dragged her underwater. After all, there’s a good reason why Antarctica has no indigenous population.

5. Miyakejima

Miyakejima is one of Japan’s volcanic islands in the Izu archipelago. The island is home to only about 2415 inhabitants. In 2000, a mass evacuation occurred since the island’s active volcano; Mount Oyama released a high level of harmful gases. Flights within the area were even stopped for over 8 years. Today, residents of Miyakejima carry masks with them all the time as the volcano continually leaks poisonous gases since its most recent eruption in 2005.

6. Ilha da Queimada

Ilha da Qeimada also known as the snake island, lies off the coast of Brazil. It is home to thousands of Golden Lancehead Vipers, one among the world’s most venomous snakes. Their venom could be fatal if you were to get bitten. Since there are no known predators for the Golden Lancehead Vipers, the snake population also increased. The Brazilian government strictly control visits to the island, allowing only a few scientists to study the snakes each year.

What are some of the riskiest places you’ve visited in the world? Let us know in the comments below!

2019-10-10

My Favorite Scenic Train Rides

John Stevens Travel and Restaurant Scenic Train rides, Train Rides, travel 0 Comments

Traveling by train and traveling by plane are worlds apart. Many of us would prefer to book plane tickets, while some of us would instead embrace a train ride.

My first scenic train ride was in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka

Sipping an Earl Grey inside my cozy apartment, I would always wonder about the culture and climate which are behind my favorite tea variety. I needed answers, so I grabbed my backpack and headed to Sri Lanka (Colombo), to satisfy my curiosity as a tea-lover.

My train journey began in Colombo Fort Station as I wade through the crowd to finally get inside the train. When the ride began, I quickly befriended the passengers who were a quirky mix of foreigners and Srilankans. The closer we got to the central highlands, the air becomes more humid as the temperature drops by a few degrees. As expected, the window revealed a lush green panorama where tea plantations and forest land dominate one’s field of view. Hard-working ladies plucking tea leaves waved at us while our train continues it’s winding way through the hills. As per the itinerary, I stopped at Nuwara Eliya, where I enjoyed an unforgettable tea-break. From that day forward, I developed a deeper appreciation for my daily cup of tea!

Peru

It has always been a dream of mine to be an archaeologist who would explore lands off the beaten track and discover forgotten vestiges. Dressed in my khaki outfit, I wanted to emulate Hiram Bingham as I embarked on a train at Poroy Station in Cusco (Peru). The train ride to Macchu Picchu was made up of stunning mountainous vistas, pisco sour, and live local music. From Poroy to Urbamba and finally to Ollantaytambo, the merry atmosphere pulled me away from Hiram Bingham’s archaeology quest. When a local dressed as a sacred Inca deity approached me, it was a reminder that the Machu Picchu wasn’t far away, which brought me back on track.

Chile

It is tucked away in a geographically blessed region of Chile and always scribbled on top of my grocery list. My train ride through the Colchagua Valley arose from a love story between Chilean wine and my taste buds. I set off on the wine adventure in the south of Santiago. The window panorama depicted the terroir that manifests itself in the wine. The train ride ended at Santacruz station, where locals greeted us with traditional music and dance, as a preliminary welcome. What followed was a mouth-watering session of wine tasting paired with regional cheeses, grapes, and nuts. Even Dionysus would have envied me!

Russia

The Trans-Siberian is the longest train journey available to anyone willing to bite into a country, which is “a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma”(Windston Churchill, 1939).

Among the passengers were foreigners, Russians, and myself. This was a twenty-day journey where Vodka forged friendships between mere strangers. From Moscow to Vladivostock, I crossed seven time zones and experienced the raw vastness of Russia. Imagine a lake that seems like an ocean (the Baikal Lake) and the Siberian forests stretching over millions of square kilometers. From my train window view, this is when the gargantuan scope of Russia’s territory really hit home from me,

Egypt

My archaeology day-dreaming kept taunting me. Peru wasn’t enough. I had been stung by the travel bug, and here I was again with my khaki gear embarking on a train journey through the heart of Egypt. My train ride began in Cairo at night time, where I stepped in the Overnight: Sleeper Train. Heading to Luxor, I said goodbye to the Sphinx. The next morning, the Valley of the kings and the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut awaited us. The second part of the overnight train ride took me to Edfu, where temples of Egyptian gods were the backdrop to our day-trip. From there on, the overnight train sent us to Aswan, where the impressive Abu Simbel temple stood carved out the rock. Awe-inspiring!

California

My inclination for wine brought me to vineyards in the Napa Valley, California. The Napa Valley train ride was pure bliss, whereby fine dining in a vintage decor, wine tasting and sun-bathed Californian scenery, all came together to bring forth the best experience ever for any epicurean. In my opinion, the Napa Valley is a must for any wine enthusiast visiting the US.

Italy- Switzerland

The Centovalli train ride was a heart-pounding and jaw-dropping trip between Domodossola (Italy) and Locarno (Switzerland). It is best experienced during the summer when you can admire the Alpine landscape made up of waterfalls, deep-ravines, and snow-capped mountains notably. As the train crossed on the numerous bridges on the itinerary, I simultaneously felt enticed by the landscape and afraid that the wagon could topple at any time. This was an intentionally slow-paced train ride, where I reveled at the sight of the picturesque stone-paved villages, vineyards, and viaducts.

My personal experience led me to the conclusion that the journey matters as much as the destination. I would rather opt for train tickets, unless I am in a hurry to get to someplace.

2019-04-24

Top 5 Destination for a Budget Backpacker – Part One

John Stevens Travel and Restaurant Backpackers, countries, Egypt, Georgia, Malta, Sri Lanka, travel, traveling, Turkey 0 Comments

Backpacking is one of the most economic and adventurous ways to vacation. Mostly adored by college students, backpacking is enjoyed by grabbing their gear, some good friends, a map, and set out to an unknown place. The first backpacker was the European traveler Rick Steves who set out in 1973. We all know that the world is changing and there are many things to consider before actually setting out, things such as where to backpack, your safety, what to bring and how money can you spend. Most people backpack through the European countries to ease their expenses and some backpack through the South American and Asian countries. Accommodation and food are also considered when backpacking. But one of the important points is finding the cheapest country to travel to. So to help you out, here are five countries that will just make your trip easy!

Georgia- The undiscovered Eastern Europe country, Georgia is the best spot for backpackers who are looking for a new country to discover. English is spoken by mostly everyone and the people welcome tourist wholeheartedly. This country is set to become a hub for backpackers and tourists in the next decade or so. Enjoy plenty of tourist-free activities and accommodation for cheap. Make Tbilisi the next getaway for you and your friends!

Malta- Be mesmerized by the ancient honey-colored buildings that sit elegantly on top of limestones cliffs that overlook the Mediterranean Sea, Malta is soon to become the best destination for backpackers and tourists. Travel back in history by witnessing the impressive historical sites that narrate the story of the nation and its succession rulers. Backpackers love this country as there is a lot more to do and see including its rich history. You can also have a stunning time at the sparkling blue beaches. Accommodation is quite cheap in Malta, so no worries!

Turkey- Renowned for its delicious cuisine, Turkish food is loved by everyone! This Mediterranean haven boasts beautiful white sandy beaches, stunning turquoise waters, and a fascinating history. Turkey is a delight for backpackers as everything is quite low cost there. Don’t forget to have that hot air balloon ride over the famous fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. Food and transportation are not going to break the bank. You are sure to have a great time in Turkey as this country is where the West meets the East.

Sri Lanka- Home to chaotic cities and chilled-out mountain towns, Sri Lanka is gaining popularity over the years. It has become the backpackers’ paradise and is often compared to its gigantic neighbor India. If you are an animal lover, the Yala National Park is the ideal place to start your trip. Head there between November and April to spot a blue whale!

Egypt- The perfect destination for backpacking to a country which is rich in history is Egypt. Curious backpackers are keen to explore its ancient history that quietly but powerfully fills the land. Travel through this marvelous country to witness the most amazing creation of mankind!

There is more to this post, so keep up!

2019-04-24

Backpackers vs Glampackers, Which One Are You?

John Stevens Travel and Restaurant Backpackers, Glampackers, travel, traveling 0 Comments

There is an inconsiderable rise in the travel and hospitality industry as more people are beginning to realize that they need to travel more often. They are realizing that they need to have an unexplained experience that is very much followed by a sense of liberation gained from exploring new destinations. It is bound to happen that we meet new people, and each and every one of us has their own unique story to related. However, there are two terms which are sure to cause a rift among travelers around the globe and those two terms are Backpackers and Glampackers. So let’s break each in different ways to be more clear:

Appearance

Backpackers are the most common travelers we tend to see almost anywhere. They are mostly young individuals who prefer roaming on a budget and can be found wearing anything from shorts to tight pants. Backpackers are independent travelers and believe in getting lost and learning from the locals.
Glampackers are the stylish lot who would spend an extra penny but won’t sacrifice their clothes and shoes while traveling. They have slightly more money than an average backpacker and certainly do not believe in the idea of traveling light.

Objective

Backpackers deeply immerse themselves in the local experiences. They often eat local cuisine, have a proper conversation with the locals and learn more about their culture. They travel to understand the life experiences of others. Backpackers are known as the real budget travelers who want to see as much of the world and that too on a limited budget. They prefer traveling alone and do not adhere to transportation.
Glampackers travel only because they are meant to, it can be either a career break or a tour. They prefer luxury travel and boutique hotels. Glampackers are believed to keep up with their Instagram profile every day and this explains why they prefer packing elaborate outfits for every single day. Glampackers do not sacrifice their comfort and they try to see the world while in their comfort bubble.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Backpackers do not rely too much on shopping and souvenirs however, they do buy weird and unique things from the artifacts and antique store. They prefer shopping to remember the place rather than having a luxury that will end in a few days. Backpackers are more attached to their cameras on which they would capture the expensive materialistic things.
Glampackers have the tendency to return with more luggage than they had taken initially. Their shopping can be from expensive shopping malls and from branded designer stores. They always buy things that are trending in the fashion industry in order to align with their fashion sense.

Well, I guess that’s enough comparison. Both backpackers and glampackers are trending around the world and they are always going to place to find the most amazing tourist spot for people who dream to travel.

With which do you identify yourself more?

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