Top 5 Places to Dance the Night Away in Sorrento, Italy

By day Sorrento looks like the hub of fashionable Amalfi Coast tourism. However, unless you know where to roam at night, you might think you’re limited to walking the Piazza Tasso and grabbing a cappuccino. However, whether you’re on a girls’ getaway, solo journey or just looking to salsa in Sorrento, here are my top choices for hitting the dance floor... just know that in order to get from the city centre to most of these clubs will require a car or taxi.


1. Jamaica Inn (Via Panoramica 5, Boscotrease) is a fantastic place, especially if you love salsa. On Friday nights there is a free group lesson around 11pm and then all night dancing. Entertainment varies on other nights and it’s a club where all ages mingle and dance together. It is quite large and you will often find someone celebrating a birthday. In warmer months, take your dancing shoes outside. By the way, they serve excellent pizza if you’re hungry. Boscotrease is about 15 minutes by car from Piazza Tasso.

Courtesy of Jamaica Inn



2. Smeralda (Via Passeggiata Archeolgica 80, Castellammare) is so worth the 20 to 30 minute ride from Sorrento. This club has an all-white, South Beach Miami kind of vibe. There are draped banquets for hanging with your girlies or small intimate tables where you can grab a nosh from their appetizer menu. On off-nites most people just chill but there is often a DJ and if you’re lucky you just might grab a club appearance by my favorite Italian singer, Gigi Finizio. By the way this club has onsite parking just like the Jamaica Inn.

3. Drummond’s Pub (Corso Caulino 77, Vico Equense) is about a 10 minute drive from the center of town or you could hop aboard the Circumvesuviana train for just 5 stops and then take a taxi back at night. It’s a small place where the locals go to dance and hang out. You could probably fit Drummond’s into one corner of the Jamaica Inn but there is a nice terrace during warmer weather and the crowd is friendly.

Drummond's Pub | Courtesy of Enzo66

4. Fauno Notte (Piazza Tasso, Sorrento) is the main disco right in the heart of Sorrento. Older folks might enjoy the Tarantella Show but those looking to vibe to a DJs blend of house music will not have to go too far since this club is located in Piazza Tasso. You can dance until dawn as the Italians do and then literally walk back to your hotel.

Courtesy of Fauno Notte

5. Stone Restaurant & Club (Sorrentina 145, Castellamare) is the ultra modern restaurant just south of the Crowne Plaza Hotel (which is an excellent hotel, by the way), perched atop a cliff alongside the Bay of Naples with killer views of Vesuvius. Who cares about dancing when you can sit and nosh in their lounge or drink the night away on Stone’s heavenly terrace with signature cocktails such as the Mamma Mia and the Valentina. Take a car or a taxi here because we wouldn’t want you at the Castellammare train station after dark.

Courtesy of Stone Restaurant and Club

 Please keep in mind that there are many more discos and clubs to visit from Naples down to Salerno; however, I focused this Top 5 list on Sorrento and its nearby neighborhoods. Hope you enjoy!

Lisa Fantino is the fanatical vagabond and creative force behind Wanderlust Women Travel, which offers Amalfi Coast travel concierge services, and Wanderlust Weddings, bringing your destination wedding in Italy dreams to life along the Amalfi Coast.

Travel A-Z: Christchurch, Chicago and Cartagena

Our blog series “Travel A-Z” gives Where I’ve Been’s fabulous travel community control over what cities you’d like to see featured each week. This week, the tribe has spoken and we’ll be featuring three beautiful cities that start with the letter C: Christchurch, Chicago and Cartagena.

Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch | Courtesy of Jay Galvin

When we polled the Where I’ve Been community on which “C” cities, they’d like to see featured this week, an overwhelming majority asked us to highlight Christchurch. The recent devastating earthquake has indeed piqued worldwide interest in this beautiful city; however, Christchurch has long been one of New Zealand’s most charming places to visit. With a population of over 350,000, Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island. The city’s extensive public gardens and parks, the shallow Avon River winding though the city center and a pedestrian-oriented downtown make it a truly pleasant place to visit. Note that as of March, many attractions were still closed; one can check on the status of any attraction via Christchurch’s official site.

Christchurch | Courtesy of Sara Harris

Where I’ve Been’s Top Picks for Christchurch

Christchurch Gondola
At over 1640 feet above sea level, the Christchurch Gondola offers amazing 360 degree views across the region. At the summit, visitors can access walking tracks and take in the scenery or visit the Time Tunnel Ride Experience, which provides riders with a wonderful history of the region.

Canterbury Museum
Canterbury Museum is arguably one of Christchurch’s most popular attractions. Dating back to 1870, the museum spans across seven buildings and contain a wide variety of exhibits. It is recommended that visitors plan to spend the majority of their day at the museum as there is much to see.

Christchurch Cathedral
As the city’s namesake, Christchurch Cathedral is one of the most important landmarks in the city of Christchurch. Sadly, the recent earthquake has caused severe damage to this beautiful building; however, there are plans underway to have the cathedral fully restored to its original glory. For those interested in donating to help rebuild the Christchurch Cathedral, visit the official website.

Orana Wildlife Park
Orana Wildlife Park is a can’t-miss stop for nature lovers. Included in the admission fee is the opportunity to hand-feed giraffes – truly an once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Christchurch Beaches
Families and avid surfers alike are drawn to the beautiful beaches of Christchurch. For those looking to fish or enjoy children’s play areas, the New Brighton Pier is recommended. Taylor’s Mistake is a very popular location for surfers, and the Banks Peninsula beaches are great for beach-going families.

Adrenaline Forest
Adrenaline Forest may very well be an adventure-seekers dream come true. Those that have visited this attracted state that this multi-level aerial obstacle course is challenging not only physically, but mentally. For those that aren’t up for a full-throttle challenge, Adrenaline Forest has multiple challenge levels depending on what you’re looking for.


Chicago, Illinois

Chicago River | Courtesy of PkrBrk

Chicago is a world-class city known for its amazing architecture, theatre, restaurants, museums, shopping and friendly Midwestern atmosphere. As Where I’ve Been’s home base, we’re pretty partial to this city!

Chicago Skyline | Couresy of Nimesh M

Where I’ve Been’s Top Picks for Chicago

The John Hancock Building
Yes, the Sears –errr – Willis Tower is much taller, but the view from the top of the Hancock is truly magnificent due to its location. For a romantic evening, we recommend making reservations at the Signature Room on the 95th floor. For window seats, we recommend visiting mid-day during the week.

Chicago River Architecture Tour
As the home of the world’s first skyscraper, Chicago is known for its world-class architecture. For one of the best vantage points in the city, take one of the many architecture cruises down the Chicago River. It’s the perfect way to enjoy Chicago’s magnificent buildings (without causing a pedestrian pile-up on the sidewalk) and the tour guides are extremely knowledgeable about the city’s history.

Millennium Park
As one of Chicago’s newest attractions, Millennium Park features what is arguably the city’s most famous photo-op: the Cloud Gate (affectionately known as “The Bean”). Stainless steel sculptures aside, the park also features the Crown Fountain, Chase Promenade, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, the Lurie Garden (featuring plants for all four seasons), and the Pritzker Pavilion. Feeling lost? Stop by the park’s visitor’s center, or head across Michigan Avenue to the Chicago Culture Center to scope out brochures, tours, exhibits, and one of the city’s best gift shops.

Visit the Theatre
Chicago has so many amazing theaters; it’s difficult to pick just one. Our favorites include the iconic Chicago Theatre (which is also a great photo-op), the Goodman Theatre, Steppenwolf Theatre, and the Briar Street Theatre. For top-notch improv comedy (and to scope out many a Saturday Night Live cast mates’ former stomping grounds), we highly recommend the Second City Theater.

Venture Out of the Loop
What truly makes Chicago special are the distinct neighborhoods that make up the city. Our favorites include Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, Lakeview and Pilsen. Nervous about venturing out into unknown territory? Explore Chicago is a great resource for neighborhood maps and attractions.


Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena | Courtesy of Pedrosz

With just over one million residents, “The Walled City” of Cartagena is one of the most popular resort towns in Colombia. Notable for its lively nightlife, 400 year old walls, beautiful Colonial architecture and beautiful beaches, one of the most unique features of this city are the colors that add to the city’s vibrant feel: burnt orange, sky blue, dusty rose, and ochre.

Cartagena | Courtesy of MariaDoCarmo

Where I’ve Been’s Top Tips for Cartagena, Colombia

Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
Dating back to 1536, the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is one of the oldest buildings in Colombia and a can’t-miss stop in Cartagena. In 1984, the Castillo was listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t just explore the exterior – be sure to take allow some time to explore the vast labyrinth of tunnels under the castle.

El Volcan de Lodo el Totumo
The opportunity to swim around in a volcano filled with mud should not be missed. Visitors can relax in the mud (which allegedly has healing properties) while receiving massages. Afterwards, dip into the nearby lagoon to clean off.

Cathedral de San Pedro Claver
Located within The Walled City, the Cathedral dates back to 1575. The Cathedral is named after San Pedro, a Spanish Jesuit who baptized hundreds of thousands of African slaves.

The Palacio de Inquisicion
The Palacio de Inquisicion houses the Cartagena historical archives as well as many other interesting and notable exhibits, including the Spanish Inquisitions Torture Chamber.


Have you visited or lived in one of these cities and have tips you’d like to share? Comment below – and don’t forget to share your photographs with us! Don’t forget – we’ll be voting on which cities to feature next week so join us on Facebook and cast your vote!

Dos and Don’ts on a city break to Madrid with a toddler

Madrid is a fabulous city. It is compact and small enough to easily walk around, yet packed with tonnes of wonderful sights, sounds and smells to engage and intrigue a toddler. Here are our dos and don’ts if you fancy taking a short family break there.

Breezy | Courtesy of GermanyEngland

1. Do eat tapas with your toddler. The tapas restaurants are generally very relaxed and they’ll welcome children. As you share tapas, it’s a great way to encourage children to try new foods as they’ll love participating, eating the same as you and helping themselves to the food. Favourites among young children are croquetas, calamares (deep fried squid), chorizo, tortilla and cazon (marinated shark). They don’t have an adult’s preconceptions about eating ‘weird’ stuff; so go ahead and let them try whatever they want.

2. Do Ditch the buggy. During busy times in Madrid, you might find it difficult to negotiate a buggy on the narrow pavements that often have trees planted in the middle of them. You could consider a back carrier, or reins for when your toddler fancies a wander. If walking a long way isn’t an option, the metro is cheap and easy to negotiate and children love trains.

3. Do go to Faunia. This animal park out in the Madrid suburbs is fantastic for children and adults alike. The animal houses are organised by ecosystem for example, a hot and humid jungle zone houses exotic parrots and an area where you can wander around with squirrel monkeys, or there’s the penguin enclosure, complete with snow. The displays are excellent and you don’t need to understand the Spanish commentary to enjoy them. At the centre of the earth zone you are bound to see something you’ve never seen before. The park itself is small and easy to walk around and you can take a picnic along with you. See the website for details on how to get there. (http://www.faunia.es/ Avenida de las Comunidades 28, 28032 Madrid)

4. Do visit Retiro Park on a Sunday. You could easily spend a full day in this enormous green space in the middle of Madrid. If you’re there on a Sunday around July time, you might be fortunate enough to catch the local band. Pull up a chair along with hundreds of Madrilenians and let your toddler dance away. They start at 12 so there’s plenty of time to explore the park before then. Check out the many play areas, works of art, the crystal palace and the beautiful rose gardens are bound to stimulate a toddler’s senses. If you have the energy, hire a boat on the lake, but do that early in the day before the sun is too strong. Best of all for the children are the street entertainers. There are often living sculptures and performance artists on the main pathways through the park and always a puppet show or two. If the sun gets too warm, find a spot under one of the thousands of shade providing trees.

5. Do make a plan of the parks before you go. There are lots of green spaces in Madrid and a few play areas scattered over the city too. There’s a fabulous one in Plaza Oriente, which will keep your toddler happily occupied for a while. The parks give your child more freedom to wander away from the traffic and sometimes crowded streets.

6. Don’t expect too much in the way of baby friendly facilities. Your child will be welcomed in most restaurants, but it doesn’t mean that they necessarily come well equipped. You may find yourself improvising when it comes to nappy changing without a baby changing station and it is best to take a travel seat that fits on normal chairs for eating, in case a restaurant doesn’t have high chairs.

7. Don’t go in August. You’ll have Madrid to yourselves in August as many locals head off to the coast, but there is a reason why. Madrid temperatures can exceed 40 degrees celsius (100+ farenheit) in August and that’s no fun with a toddler. Winters are chilly, but often with beautiful blue skies. Early summer or early autumn are probably the best times to go.

8. Do rent an apartment. With a toddler, you never know if they’ll sleep well, how they’ll respond do different eating times or just how much energy they’ll burn up during the day and therefore they will need a place to recharge. An apartment gives you the flexibility to work around your toddler and give you all a space to relax.

9. Do enjoy yourselves. The Spaniards generally love children and your toddler will no doubt get plenty of attention, in the street as well as in restaurants. Have a fantastic time while stimulating your toddler’s senses and giving you all a taste of a different culture.


This article was written by Clare Sparks, writer for www.babyabroad.co.uk. For more on holidaying with your baby or toddler visit BabyAbroad for family holiday reviews, baby and child travel information and all your family travel gear. Or you can catch up with BabyAbroad on Twitter @babyabroadnews or facebook.com/babyabroad.

Tips for Traveling to Mexico with Small Children

Traveling with small children can be challenging, but if you are prepared it will go more smoothly. Depending on the age of the child, there may be many things to consider (and bring) when traveling, especially if you are leaving the country. Here are some tips for your next family beach vacation in Cancun, the Riviera Maya, or Playa del Carmen in the Mexican Caribbean.

Mexico Beach | Courtesy of Serch

1) Documents

All U.S. and Canadian citizens traveling by air to Mexico, regardless of age, are required to present a passport. Make sure that none of your family member’s passports are expired and that they won’t expire during your trip. In order to prevent international child abductions, minors traveling without their parents will be asked to present a notarized letter signed by their parents authorizing the travel. If only one parent is traveling with the child, they may be asked to show either documents proving they have sole legal custody of the child or a notarized letter from the other parent authorizing the child to travel outside the country of origin.


2) Air Travel

If your child is younger than 2 years old, they may sit on your lap and it isn’t necessary to purchase an additional ticket. However, you will probably have to pay a small lap child fee which usually amounts to 10% of the price of your ticket. Bring a stroller, you will need it to get around the airport and most airlines will check it for you at the gate and return it to you as soon as you step off the plane. If possible, you can also bring a car seat. Airlines normally try to put an empty seat next to you if you are traveling with a child on your lap. If you get lucky and this happens, you can strap in your car seat, and strap in your child! If the airline cannot provide you with an empty seat most will check your car seat at the gate. You may also be able to use it when you are traveling from the airport to your hotel.


3) What to Pack

Traveling with a small child usually means bringing a lot of things that they will need that may not be immediately available when you arrive at your final destination. As far as clothing, besides the obvious bathing suit, beach/pool shoes, sun hat and children’s sunblock, bring lightweight light-colored clothing and always bring a sweater and a jacket as well. It can get chilly in the evenings and it will probably be cool on your flight. If your child is still in diapers, drinking formula and eating jarred baby food the best thing to do is bring enough for the first couple of days. As soon as you arrive at your hotel or resort you can arrange a trip to a grocery store. Don’t forget bottles, sippy cups, spoons and maybe a plastic baby bowl and plate. If your child is taking prescription medication, bring enough for your entire stay and bring a copy of the prescription as well. Check with your pediatrician to make sure your child has all the necessary vaccines.


4) Sleeping Arrangements

Most hotels in Cancun and the Riviera Maya have cribs available for small children, but you will have to ask for details. Is it a real crib or a portable one? How big is it? Will you be charged extra? How old it is? It may be difficult to determine if it is safe from pictures or just a description. If you don’t want to take any chances you may be more comfortable bringing your own portable crib and sheets. It may cost you a little more to check another bag, but you can’t put a price on your child’s safety, and some airlines consider Mexico an international destination and do not charge for the first two checked bags.


Vacationing with your family in the Mexican Caribbean can be a fun and rewarding experience if you are prepared. Once you arrive you will be able to concentrate only on creating memories that will last a lifetime.


Yucatan Holidays is a is a visionary company committed to providing inspiring and sustainable travel experiences throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, including Cancun & the Riviera Maya. Please join our growing community on Facebook and Twitter

Travel A-Z: Belize City, Beijing and Belgrade

Our blog series “Travel A-Z” gives Where I’ve Been’s fabulous travel community control over what cities you’d like to see featured each week. This week, the tribe has spoken and we’ll be featuring three beautiful cities that start with the letter B: Belize City, Beijing and Belgrade. 

Belize City, Belize

Belize City | Courtesy of Richies

Situated at the mouth of the Belize River on the coast of the Caribbean, Belize City is the largest city in the country of Belize. Those that are privy to “mother nature’s best kept secret” have long been enjoying one of the best-kept secrets in Central America. As with most Caribbean destinations, visitors can enjoy Belize City’s beautiful coastline year-round due to temperatures that remain mostly between 70 and 90 degrees year-round.

Atun Ha Mayan Ruins | Courtesy of ColinScott

Where I’ve Been’s Top Picks in Belize City:

Altun Ha
The ancient Mayan village of Altun Ha is a can’t-miss stop in Belize City. "Altun Ha" is a modern name in the Maya language, coined by translating the name of the nearby village of Rockstone Pond. This ancient Mayan city spans approximately 5 miles with the central square mile of the village containing over 500 structures. Thought to have been occupied from roughly 200 B.C. to 900 A.D., this majestic ancient city was thought to have housed over 10,000 people.

St. John’s Angelican Cathedral
St. John’s is notable for being the very first Angelican cathedral in Central America in addition to being one of the oldest buildings in Belize. Erected in 1812, the cathedral was built from orange bricks that came from Britain as ballast. Between 1815 and 1845, four kings of the Mosquito Coast (the coast between present day Honduras and Nicaragua) were crowned in Belize amid ceremonial splendor.

Baron Bliss Lighthouse
The Baron Bliss Lighthouse doubles as a tribute – as well as tomb marker - to Henry Edward Ernest Victor Bliss, one of Belize’s greatest benefactors. The Baron Bliss Lighthouse is now one of Belize City’s most well-known attractions.

Maritime and Coastal Zone Museums
These two museums are housed inside the same building (a former fire house) and one ticket admits visitors into both museums. The Maritime Museum educates visitors on Belize City’s maritime history via model boats, historical documents, and more, while the Coastal Zone Museum highlights Belize City’s amazing coral reef ecology. If you haven’t gone scuba diving or snorkeling yet, a visit to these museums will inspire you to.


Beijing, China

Temple of Heaven | Courtesy of Melissa Diep Photography

As capital city of the People’s Republic of China, Beijing is the nation’s political, cultural, economic and international epicenter, as well as being one of the country’s most important transportation hubs. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, China plays host to roughly 140 million Chinese tourists and 4.4 million international visitors annually. As Beijing is such a large and historical city, this list of picks is not inclusive but rather just a sneak-peek into the endless things to see and do in Beijing.

Forbidden City | Courtesy of Melissa Diep Photography

Where I've Been's Top Picks in Beijing, China:

The Forbidden City
Located in the center of Beijing, the Forbidden City (also called the Palace Museum) is the best-preserved imperial palace in China and the largest ancient palatial structure in the world. Built between 1406 and 1420, the palace has been home to 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Today, there are over a million rare and valuable artifacts within the museum.

The Great Wall
Built during the Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644), the Great Wall in Beijing is one of the most often-visited and well-preserved walls in China. The wall runs over 373 miles and contains about 71 passes, numerous towers and about 827 city wall platforms.

The Temple of Heaven
Located in the southeast part of central Beijing, the Temple of Heaven is a complex of Taoist buildings built between 1406 and 1420. Named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998, the site was described as "a masterpiece of architecture and landscape design which simply and graphically illustrates a cosmogony of great importance for the evolution of one of the world’s great civilizations..."

Tiananmen Square
As the largest city square in the world, Tiananmen Square is significant for the amount of historical events that have taken place there. Built in 1415 during the Ming Dynasty, Tiananmen Square is one of Beijing’s most popular tourist attractions.


Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade | Courtesy of Urban Legend

As the capital city of Serbia, Belgrade is the largest city in one of the world’s newest countries and one of the largest in southeast Europe. The city is home to over 1.2 million residents and has great historical significance - Belgrade's wider city area was the birthplace of the largest prehistoric culture of Europe, the Vinča culture, as early as the 6th millennium BC. With a thriving cafe and restaurant culture, famous nightlife and a passion for arts and literature, the Serbian capital city of Belgrade is an immensely beautiful city to visit.

Belgrade City Centre | Courtesy of GothPhil

Where I’ve Been’s Top Picks in Belgrade, Serbia:

Kalemegdan Citadel
Built in 535 and declared a Monument of Culture of Exceptional Importance in 1979, the Kalemegdan Citadel is not only a beautiful historical site but also a wonderful place to overlook the city of Belgrade.

Skadarska
Labeled as “Belgrade’s Montremarte”, the cobbled streets of Skadarska feature strolling musicians, performers, art galleries, cafes and quaint Balkan taverns.

The National Museum
The National Museum houses over 400,000 objects and artifacts, including an extensive “French Masters” collection that features extremely rare works of art by Picasso, Matisse, Renoir, Degas and others.

Cathedral of Saint Sava
One of the largest Orthodox Cathedrals in the world, the Cathedral of Saint Sava was built in 1895 on the site where the remains of Saint Sava (founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church) were burned in 1595. The cathedral dominates Belgrade’s skyline and is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful pieces of architecture within the city.


Have you visited or lived in one of these cities and have tips you’d like to share? Comment below – and don’t forget to share your photographs with us! Don’t forget – we’ll be voting on which cities to feature next week so join us on Facebook and cast your vote!

My Thoughts After the Japan Tragedy

I have just realized that travel makes you feel the pain of the people of other countries so much more closely and personally. I was in Japan 11 months ago and have only been there once, and yet I felt so sad and shocked last night watching the TV coverage of the tsunami and the earthquake. It felt like a personal loss - same with Egypt, New Zealand, etc but not so much places where I haven't been to, e.g. Libya, Palestine, etc.

As you most probably know, Japan got hit by a magnitude 8.9 earthquake and thereafter giant tsunamis hit the coastal areas. TV news networks have been showing live coverage of the destruction. Millions of people around the world perhaps sat glued to their TV's watching the frightening scenes of the tsunami approaching land and then sweeping houses, cars, trucks, boats, ships away. Facebook, Twitter, and all online news sites are all abuzz with what's happening in Japan right now.

I first saw the news about the quake and tsunami on Twitter, and then saw a Facebook status from my friend, Yuki who lives in Tokyo with her beautiful daughter, Alyssa and husband, Jeff. And then I just got glued to the TV, and I haven't been able to focus on anything else since then. I am praying for the people, and have quickly donated to relief efforts and am urging friends to donate as well. It really feels like a personal loss. I was in some of those buildings in Tokyo and other towns just last year, and I was "immersed" in Japan and went around town in Tokyo with Yuki and her family, had dinner at a place most tourists can never find. And now nature has unfairly struck that wonderful country.

This is not the first time a natural disaster has hit any part of the earth, and neither is it the last. In just the last year or two there have been several earthquakes that caused lots of devastation. Christchurch got hit just a few weeks ago, Chile and Haiti just over a year ago. Natural disasters are not the only kind of disasters to plague countries or regions, but also man-made ones like conflicts in different regions. The crises in Egypt and Libya were two very recent examples, and in Iran not too long ago. Over the years we have been reading about or watching on TV news about conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, Bosnia, etc.

I was aghast at seeing the damage to the cathedral in Christchurch, which is for the most part the icon of the city. We stayed about 20-30 yards from that cathedral in a hotel literally facing it and separated by a narrow 1-lane street. When the casualty numbers came out, I worried about how many of those people I might have met briefly during my visit - the friendly people you run into at restaurants or hotel lobbies or in a market or just about anywhere. The protests in Egypt were hopefully not too bloody, but they did cause a big commotion and lots of people were affected. I could not stop thinking about my tour guide and Egyptologist, Saad who was with us for 4 days showing us the wonders of Egypt, having lunch with us, playing with my daughter, and making us feel completely at home, or his partner Robir who was so friendly and amusing. I worried when I didn't get a response to my email from their travel agency for over a week after there were reports that the entire internet was "shut down". I worried about the impact the protests would have on their tourism-based careers, because without a doubt tourism would suffer for some time. I even felt personally offended and enraged when I saw photos of miscreants raiding the Egyptian Museum in Cairo and causing damage to some of the antiquities and even beheading a mummy that had survived for thousands of years!

We all feel impacted by these unpleasant events around the world, but I have started feeling that I feel much more and at a personal level for the places I have been to. I have never been distracted from my work or other important daily chores by what's happening in Libya or Palestine, or even the earthquake in Chile, Haiti, etc. I performed my good world citizen duties and donated money wherever possible and prayed for the people, but I didn't feel any personal loss. On the other hand, any suffering in a place I have been to almost breaks my heart. If everybody travelled a lot or even a little to other parts of the world, I think the man-made problems would get resolved on their own, very quickly. I will continue travelling for just this reason, and also hope that nobody has to suffer from natural disasters either.

-Ram P. Singh

I love to travel and by the end of this year would have most probably been to about 40 countries in 6 continents. I am a co-founder and the CTO of a movie recommendation site: http://mombo.com/

Top 5 things to do in Hong Kong

Hong Kong can be a bit overwhelming with how many things there are to see and do, especially if you're short on time. While it's impossible to cram everything into one visit, there are a few things that should definitely make the list. Here are five things worth factoring into your schedule when visiting Asia's World City:

Take the tram to Victoria Peak

Labeled as one of the top ten most spectacular skylines, it’s no wonder Victoria Peak makes the "top list of things to do in Hong Kong." There’s no need to spend your entire day up at the Peak, just go for an hour or two, grab a milk tea and enjoy the view. The best time to visit (as any other travel site will reiterate) is right before the sun sets.

Hong Kong appears peaceful and serene under a clear blue sky, until the sun goes down and the scene below reveals it’s true character: vibrant and busy. Not only will you see two completely different views of the city, but watching the sun sink into the water on the opposite side of the peak is really quite breathtaking - not to mention completely romantic.

Don’t worry about eating before you go. What is best described as a mini-mall is located on top of the peak, where one can find not only clothing and souvenirs, but a wide variety of restaurants ranging in price and menu. For those more inclined to enjoy the atmosphere, there’s a supermarket where one can purchase all the necessities for a picnic. And like every other block in Hong Kong, Starbucks and 7-11 have proudly stamped their mark a top this prominent attraction.

There are several ways to get to the peak, but I highly recommend taking the tram. Only $36 Hong Kong dollars for a round-trip ticket (don’t waste your money on The Sky Terrace), a visit to the peak makes for an enjoyable and affordable experience.

Ride the ferry to Lamma Island

Cruise the coast, feel the sand under your feet and take half a day to get away from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong. A peaceful place (there are no cars allowed), Lamma Island is only a twenty-minute ferry ride from Hong Kong Island. Arrive at the small fishing village of Sok Kwu Wan where there are two trails one can choose to hike. Both offer spectacular views and moderate to heavy hiking, but if you're on a schedule or want to spend some time enjoying the town, take the 'Family Trail.'

Wind your way through the trees and up the mountains, enjoying the simplicity of the island and the view. For the more adventurous, stray off the beaten path and weave your way to one of the uninhabited beaches below, although there is a public beach halfway through the hike.

An hour-and-a-half later (or longer depending upon how much straying you do) you'll arrive to the other ferry terminal in Yung Shue Wan. Before leaving, browse the shops, visit the temple and enjoy some food at one of the many restaurants lining the sea, including several vegetarian and breakfast-all-day cafes. There's also plenty of fresh seafood restaurants, bars and other traditional cuisine, if that's more to your liking. 



Go shopping!

With cheap prices and lots to choose from, Hong Kong is a shopping haven. Bargaining is key and almost everywhere you go, it's easy to whittle the price down. Check out Chungking Mansions for the biggest bargains, Cat Street and Hollywood Road for traditional Chinese antiques and The Temple Street Night Market for unique gifts and a lively experience. If you have time take a day trip to Stanley Market, where after shopping, one can grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafes and restaurants overlooking the coast. While a day trip to Stanley is probably the most pleasant shopping experience, bargaining isn't as easy here as the vendors are accustomed to tourists arriving by the busload. Don't forget: The higher the price, the lower you should start your offer.

Visit Tian Tan 'Big' Buddha and walk down Wisdom Path

Standing next to an 111 foot tall statue of a Buddha. Yes, it's as cool as it sounds (although don't fool yourself into thinking it's thousands of years old, it's a bit of a letdown when you discover it was started in 1990 and completed three years later).



Located in Ngong Ping on Lantau Island, Big Buddha, the Po Lin Monastery and Wisdom Path are all free attractions definitely worth a day trip. Take the cable car from the Tung Chung metro station and glide for 25 minutes over the South China Sea and mountains to reach Ngong Ping. Make sure to arrive early as there tends to be a wait.  Not only is it a fun ride which offers some of the best panoramic views of Hong Kong, but sometimes you can spot people below hiking their way to Big Buddha. Trust me, you won’t envy them.

Admire the scenery from atop the Buddha, marvel at the intricate details in the monastery and then take a break to grab a bite to eat. For the 'full experience' contribute a small donation to the Po Lin monks who will happily serve you a vegetarian lunch in their monastery cafeteria. You can also order from the adjacent to-go cafe which offers a bigger variety and slightly tastier food. Once you finish, work off your meal (not that you need to after climbing up to see Big Buddha) and go for a walk down Wisdom Path. About fifteen minutes in, the trees disappear and the scene opens up to reveal mountains, the South China Sea and a monument of 38 timber inscribed columns with the words of the 'Heart Sutra.' If Big Buddha and the Po Lin monastery didn't blow you away, the beauty and serenity of the Heart Sutra, will. Masterly woven into the surrounding mountainside, the tall timbers, high peaks, and sparkling water provide a tranquile backdrop for a lovely afternoon.

Have a picnic

Whether you prefer a view of the water or people watching in the park, Hong Kong is a haven for enjoying the outdoors. Purchase a cheap bottle of wine and snacks, then head to the IFC rooftop (located in Central), which is decorated with sofas, tables and armchairs for public use. Sit back, relax and enjoy the view of Victoria Harbor without paying the price.

If you’re more of a picnic-in-the-park type of person, there are several located in the heart of the city and plenty more in outlying areas. Whether you prefer the peacefulness of Hong Kong Park, spending a few hours with the animals at Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens or exploring the maze of Kowloon Park, all three are great for an afternoon stroll. They're all well-kept and offer a variety of things to see and do. If your schedule's jam-packed, grab some street food and use the park as an excuse for outdoor dining. After marching through the lively city all day, your feet won’t mind the break. 



Lauren Patricia Hogan is an avid traveler who loves to share her adventures via her blog, The Hoghie Hub. A recent graduate from the University of Central Florida, Lauren is currently teaching English in Wenzhou, China. Follow her adventures via her blog or on http://www.twitter.com/hoghie.





iExplore Photo Safari Contest

We’ve found that many travel buffs are also great photographers. Do you have some amazing travel photographs that you’re dying to share? iExplore is accepting submissions for the iExplore Photo Safari contest.

Giraffe | Courtesy of PickledImages

Visitors can view amazing photos from around the globe and submit their vote for best picture. You may vote for one photo per day throughout the duration of the contest. On April 15, 2011, the 20 photos with the highest vote totals will be selected as finalists. iExplore’s panel of judges (including Where I’ve Been’s very own Katy Lynch!) who all have significant travel and/or photography experience will select the winner and runners–up from the finalist photos. The judges will make their selection based on a composite score based on creativity, photographic quality and community feedback.

Kenya | Courtesy of PickledImages

The Grand Prize will win a once in a lifetime safari for two to Kenya. Runner–ups and judge favorites will receive an amazing selection of travel vouchers and adventure gear courtesy of iExplore and their sponsors.

Best of luck – and we hope you’ll be sharing your safari photographs with us once you return!

Travel A-Z: Amman, Amsterdam and Aix-en-Provence

Our new blog series “Travel A-Z” is giving Where I’ve Been’s fabulous travel community control over what cities you’d like to see featured each week. This week, the tribe has spoken and we’ll be featuring three beautiful cities that start with the letter A: Amman, Amsterdam and Aix-en-Provence.

 

Amman, Jordan

Amman | Courtesy of QuintheIslander

As the capital city of Jordan, almost half of the country’s population resides in Amman. The city is one of the oldest continuously occupied cities in the world, a fact which is reflected within the ancient souks and Roman ruins in the city’s historic “Balad” (or “City Centre”). Indeed, the juxtaposition between the ancient and modern world is Amman’s most charming feature.

 

Amman Market | Courtesy of UncorneredMarket

 

 

Where I’ve Been’s Top Picks in Amman:

• A trip to Amman just wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Citadel, arguably one of the city’s most famous attractions. As the site of ancient Rabbath-Ammon, excavations here have revealed numerous Roman, Byzantine and early Islamic remains.
• Immerse yourself in history at the National Archaeological Museum. The museum features artifacts highlighting the rich history of Jordan and the surrounding region, including examples of the Dead Sea Scrolls.
• For a wonderful view of Amman, visit the Abu Darwish Mosque. Note that although non-Muslims are typically not allowed inside, the Mosque features beautiful architecture worth seeing.
• Mingle with the locals within one of the city’s many souks. One can find jewelry, textiles and crafts within these markets. Take note that it is against Jordanian law to remove anything over 100 years old from the country.
• Although not within the city of Amman itself, it would be a shame of we did not mention the plethora of amazing day trips from the city, including excursions to Jerash, the Dead Sea, Wadi Rum and Petra (one of the Wonders of the World).

 

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam | Courtesy of DigitalGold

Amsterdam is most notorious for its, erm, nightlife activities; however, the real gems of this city lie within its rich culture, museums, art and architecture. As the 6th largest city in Europe, Amsterdam has all of the amenities of a large city paired with a distinct Dutch feel.

Amsterdam | Courtesy of Aigle_Dore

Where I’ve Been’s Top Picks for Amsterdam:

• Visit the Anne Frank House to see the place where Anne hid – and penned her iconic diary – during World War II. The museum not only highlights the life of Anne Frank but also the holocaust as a whole.
• Perhaps one of the most famous museums in Amsterdam, the Van Gogh Museum boasts the largest collection of Van Gogh paintings under one roof - truly a can’t-miss while in Amsterdam.
• A trip to Amsterdam isn’t complete without time spent taking in the canals. Known as the “Venice of the North”, the canals span roughly 62 miles, boasting 90 islands and 1,500 bridges. A great way to tour the canals is via a boat tour. For those who prefer to travel by land, one of the best views of the canal is via the bridge at the corner of Reguliersgracht and Herengracht
• Take in classic Dutch architecture, meet some friends and relax with an espresso at the Dam Square, the natural center of Amsterdam and home to notable statues, monuments and a plethora of street performers. Note that many tours also meet up within the square.
• For more ideas, check out the Matador Network’s list of Ten Things to do in Amsterdam.

 

Aix-en-Provence, France

Aix-en-Provence | Courtesy of MoritzP

 

Located 16 miles outside of Marseilles, Aix-en-Provence is considered by many to be the “Left-Bank” of the Provence region. Those that visit Aix-en-Provence can expect a quaint city that describes itself the “town of water, town of art”. Aix-en-Provence’s location in the South of France ensures a relatively warm climate year-round, thus making the lush greenery and gardens one of the town’s top attractions.

 

Aix-en-Provence | Courtesy of MoritzP

Where I’ve Been’s Top Picks for Aix-en-Provence

• We normally wouldn’t focus in on one restaurant for a top pick; however, L’Amphitryon comes highly recommended. Voted as the #1 restaurant in the Provence region and the #1 thing to do in Aix-en-Provence by Lonely Planet, Amphitryon is a can’t-miss stop.
• With some portions dating back to 1285, the Cathédrale St-Sauveur is one of Aix-en-Provence’s architectural gems. We recommend paying a visit on Sunday evenings when visitors can enjoy Gregorian chants sung live.
• Built on the site of an ancient Roman bath, the Sextius Baths have played host to many notable figures including Winston Churchill, Pablo Picasso and the Princess Borghese. Spanning almost two square miles, the Sextius Baths are a wonderful place to spend a day – or perhaps even a week. 

Of course, these tips are just a few out of the hundreds of wonderful things to experience within these great cities. Have you visited or lived in one of these cities and have tips you’d like to share? Comment below – and don’t forget to share your photographs with us! Don’t forget – we’ll be voting on Monday for which cities to feature next week so join us on Facebook and cast your vote!

Four Dishes Not to Miss in Northern Thailand

Food from northern Thailand is a bit different from the south: a strong Burmese influence holds sway over the cuisine, infiltrating it with delicious salads and curries. Yunnan, China, isn’t far either, and as such, Yunnanese food also influences the region’s cuisine.

Northern Thai dishes are often bitter and spicy rather than sweet, and most eschew coconut milk. Sticky rice is the preferred grain, though you’ll see regular white rice everywhere. Pork is the favored meat, and street stalls are filled with pork sausages stuffed with rice and seasonings. The sausages come on sticks (just like a corn dog!) and are a great snack.

Chiang Mai is probably the best place to visit for a wide variety of sampling; its market scene ensures that no matter what night of the week it is, a food-happy market is on somewhere. Though northern specialties are varied and seemingly limitless, a few stand out. Here are a few of WhyGo’s favorite dishes from northern Thailand:

Khao Soi

This curry is Chiang Mai’s signature dish, and is found in streets stalls as well as upscale restaurants. Originally a Burmese dish, khao soi differs from the usual green and red curries found throughout Thailand. A bowl is filled with noodles (“khao soi” means “cut rice;” traditionally the dish used noodles cut from thinly stretched rice dough. Today you’re more likely to be served ready-made yellow noodles), and the pale red curry is poured over them. Mild and slightly sweet, khao soi is thinner than most curries – it’s almost like a broth. The concoction is then topped with crispy fried noodles, raw red onion, pickled cabbage, and a wedge of lime.

Khao Soi | courtesy of Jetalone

Larb

Larb is a spicy meat salad that comes from Isaan province in the northeast. In the north, pork is usually used though any kind of meat is fine. The meat is minced with spices and herbs, and then tossed with toasted rice. In Isaan, larb usually has fish sauce and lime; in northern Thailand these ingredients are substituted for local ones. Sticky rice comes on the side, and it’s common to pair the salad with beer.

Thailand Sausage | courtesy of MissBossy


Drunken noodles

Drunken noodles (pad kee mao) is a stir-fried dish with Chinese influences (and a fun name). Thick rice noodles are fried with sliced meat, onions, garlic, shallots and more, then tossed with a sauce that includes fish and soy sauces. Chiles and basil give the dish a rich spiciness.


Burmese salads

These are a delight and shouldn’t be missed. Though not as ubiquitous as the above dishes (you might need to visit a Burmese establishment to find one), the array of Burmese salads are a treat for your mouth. Tangy, savory, and slightly sour, the greens in the salads are usually diced and tossed with something crunchy such as nuts or chopped samosas. A pickled green tea salad combines pickled tea, cabbage, fried peanuts, and fried yellow beans as well as tomatoes, toasted sesame seeds and shrimp. The pickled tea is often a little strange to Western eaters a first taste, but savor the combination of flavors and textures and it’s likely you’ll have found a new favorite food.

Tea Leaf Salad | courtesy of mary_thompson


As always, have fun exploring markets and restaurants to discover your own favorite foods. Thailand has a seemingly limitless variety of excellent cuisine, and you could turn an entire trip into one that revolves around eating. We say go for it!

Catherine Bodry writes for WhyGoThailand, a BootsnAll travel guide to the land of smiles, where you can check out cheap flights to Bangkok, find hostels in Chang Mai, and learn about things to do and see in Thailand.