Three Experiences not to be missed in Turkey

What immediately springs to mind when someone mentions Turkey? Lazing by the beach on cheap all inclusive holidays? Getting crushed in the crowds in Istanbul? Eating some unusual food in a local restaurant? Whatever conjures up in your mind, Turkey is so vast and full of adventure that it is possible to go and explore to your hearts content without too much effort. 

Here are three experiences not to be missed in Turkey:

1. Get Hot and Steamy in Istanbul 

You will no doubt have heard all about Turkish baths. It may be a bit unsurprising and blindingly obvious, but the best and most authentic baths are located in Turkey. These baths are known locally as hammams, and a visit will involve you changing into a cotton wrap and slippers before you are cleaned, steamed and massaged like never before. 

2. Seafood Delight in Ankara 

Have you noticed how destinations that are close to the sea often have amazing seafood? It is hardly surprising – after all, restaurants are delivered the freshest catches and they can instantly turn them into wonderfully creative dishes. But just because a city or restaurant is located inland does not mean that they do not have access to the best and freshest seafood – something that many restaurants in Ankara prove. Kalbur is one such establishment where seafood reigns supreme, so much so that many say it is one of the best seafood restaurants in the city and all of Turkey itself!

3. Scuba Diving in Bodrum

Are you an experienced diver who loves to explore new sites in warm, crystal clear waters? Or are you someone who has always wanted to experience the depths but never had the opportunity? Whatever your experience, head to the Turkish city of Bodrum which sits next to the Aegean Sea. Dive sites include hot springs, caverns and reefs.

There are few countries in the world that can come close to the modern and ancient feel that Turkey provides. One moment you could be experiencing wonderfully modern cuisines, the next, exploring an ancient shipwreck on a dive. Turkey holidays have it all – it is just a matter of heading to the places that appeal to you and your idea of fun. One thing is for sure, you’ll always be able to find something exciting, interesting and totally unique to do even on cheap holidays to Turkey!

About the Author: Ricky Durrance is a Web Relations Executive for Beat the Brochure. 

Five Must-Have Experiences in Barcelona for First-Timers

As a first-timer planning your trip to Barcelona, you may be overwhelmed by the number of things to see and do in Barcelona. Having recently returned from my first trip there, here are some places which you shouldn’t miss, along with tips to help you plan a memorable stay in this impressive city.

1. Sagrada Familia

If you have done your research, you will know that the Sagrada Familia is the top attraction in Barcelona and wouldn’t want to go home without visiting this work-in-progress masterpiece by Gaudi.  Give yourself at least 3-4 hours to spend here as there is a lot to learn and see.  

To make the most of your time here, join a guided tour or rent an audio guide to get an in-depth explanation of the different symbologies found throughout Sagrada Familia.  The cost of the normal ticket to Sagrada Familia is €12.50 and the audio guide is an additional €4 which is well-worth the price. 

Also if you have time, visit the Towers.  You get a bird’s eye view of Barcelona and it’s simply stunning.  To get to the Towers, you will need to buy a ticket to take a lift up and it costs €2.50.  Here is an overview of their admission charges for the Sagrada Familia. 

Tip:  The line for the ticket is usually long but it goes relatively fast.  To avoid the lines, you can purchase tickets online from this link that is given on their website. However, there is a premium for this and a normal ticket bought in advance costs €13.80. Note that the lift tickets cannot be bought online. 

2. Casa Batllo

Another attraction by Gaudi is Casa Batllo. This house is inspired by many elements from the ocean. It’s obvious that Gaudi ‘s work is nature-inspired and you will see this concept in yet another Gaudi project mentioned later. 

In Casa Batllo, there are nets and light blue colored tiles all reminiscent of being in the ocean rather than in a house in the center of Barcelona.  The rooftop feels like you have reached an enchanted world with dragon and dinosaur like chimneys awaiting your arrival. 

An audio guide is included with the general admission ticket (€18.15) and gently guides you from one point of interest to another. 

Tip: You can also purchase the ticket for Casa Batllo online and get a 5% discount for doing so. 

3. La Rambla

Not one but a few people have advised me to keep an eye on my belongings while strolling La Rambla.  It’s a crowded place and like everyone else who is visiting Barcelona, you want to say you have walked La Rambla.  

Here you will see stalls selling souvenirs and café outdoor areas and while there is not much else besides the stroll, it’s just to say you have gone down this path.  If you walk down the entire stretch of La Rambla, ending near Port Vell, you will come across the Mirador de Colom, a column with Christopher Columbus pointing to a distant land.  Where could he be pointing to? 

Tip:  Take a slight detour from La Rambla and visit Mercat de la Boqueria near the Liceu metro stop. This place is also a tourist stop and not surprisingly, often very packed. The variety of food you find here is staggering and you are constantly at awe as you navigate from one stall to another.  If you like markets but not the crowd, you will prefer Mercat de Santa Catarina which is near the Jaume I metro stop.

4. Park Guell

“It’s a hike up to get there”. That’s what I have been told and to save yourself all that effort take a taxi. Park Guell is situated further away from the other attractions which can usually be reached on foot.  Here is information as to how best to get to Park Guell.  As for us, we rented a scooter which struggled uphill but got us right to the entrance.

There is no entrance fee and this is where you will again see Gaudi’s use of broken mosaic . Nature was Gaudi’s inspiration and this is indisputable in this park with the pillars looking like tree branches and blending in with the scenery.  While there were no dinosaurs here, the salamander at the entrance is the symbol of Park Guell. 

Tip: You could take the metro to Lesseps but passing by on the moped, it was still quite a walk to Park Guell. To avoid the uphill walk, you would be better off taking the bus or a taxi. 

5. Montjuic

Getting to Montjuic is an adventure in itself!  You can take the metro to Espanya and make your way up to Montjuic but why not enjoy an aerial view of Barcelona with a cable car ride to Montjuic? 

If you are up for some adventure, take the metro to Barceloneta and make your way to Torre di San Sebastia.   You can easily see it and just walk in that direction.  For those who are afraid of heights, you may be hesitant to do this but you will have a thrill of your life.

Keep in mind the Teleferico del Puerto only gets you to Miramar.  This will not get you to Castell de Montjuic (Montjuic castle).  There’s a different cable car for that.    

If you intend to take the cable car to the Castle, take the paved path on the right when you come out of Miramar. It is a slight uphill walk, to the next cable car station, Teleferic de Montjuic  and a welcome alternative to walking all the way to the Castle. There is no entrance fee to visit the Castle and you get a spectacular view of sea and the mountains from this attraction.  

Since you have taken the cable car up, consider walking down from the Castle to the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya. This is all downhill and will allow you to pass by some gardens and Fondacio Joan Miro.  If you have time, drop by these attractions. 

Once you reach the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, you will be treated to a beautiful view of Placa d’ Espanya.  Simply majestic.  From here, don’t forget to visit the Magic Fountain. Unfortunately on the day we were there, it was not in operations.  Nonetheless,  the view and the walk on that stretch was consolation enough. 

Tips: The Teleferic del Port from San Sebastia to Miramar and vice versa only accepts cash.  

Check the opening hours of the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya as they are closed on Mondays and have shorter hours on Sundays.  

Also if you want to catch a glimpse of the Magic Fountain in operation, here are the hours.

Bonus:  Hot Chocolate and Churros or Porras

If you are in Barcelona in Autumn or Winter, order chocolate and churros.  Better yet, try porras with hot chocolate. They make a great start to your day in Barcelona!

About the Author: Diana at BrowsingRome blogs about all things Italian and shares the good, bad, ugly and beautiful things in Rome and Italy in general. Although she knows there is no place like Rome, Diana is an avid-traveler and enjoys venturing beyond The Eternal City to explore the beauty of Europe, one town and city at a time. She is a regular on Twitter @browsingrome and offers a glimpse of Rome, Italy and beyond on Facebook.

The Top 5 Reasons to Visit Leeds

Leeds is the 3^rd largest city in the United Kingdom by population and is located in North-East England, on the doorstep of the breathtaking Yorkshire Dales. From London Kings Cross railway station, you can catch the train on the East Coast line and be in Leeds within 2 hours 30 minutes  – but make sure you book in advance for cheaper tickets.  

So, why should you visit Leeds? The following are five reasons that the trip to Leeds is very worthwhile:

1. It's a city of Culture

Within the city centre there are a number of theatres and museums. The famous City Varieties has re-opened after a £9 million refurbishment – the venue has seen acts like Charlie Chaplin perform over the years. Other theatres located nearby are the Grand, Carriageworks and West Yorkshire playhouse.

The Leeds City Museum, located on Millennium Square, is home to an Egyptian mummy and is a great place to visit to learn about the history of life in Leeds. Near the waterfront is the Royal Armouries museum – which has the largest collection of armour outside of London. The city is also home to a number of independent art spaces like PSL and East Street Arts. 

2. Parks and Green Spaces

The parks and green open spaces are what I love about living in Leeds. A personal favourite is Roundhay Park, with its award winning gardens, vast green space, and lake. Also located there is Tropical World; it is home to meerkats, butterflies, tropical fish, and birds – the kids will love it!

If you like the outdoors, then I would recommend a walk from Golden Acre Park through the Meanwood Valley Trail to Woodhouse. The trail is approximately seven miles and takes you through Meanwood Urban Farm, Adel Woods, and Meanwood Park – some of the best walks in the city!

3. Nightlife and Shopping

Leeds is known for its nightlife and shopping. While the city has much more to offer, you cannot ignore that people from all over the country come to the city to shop and socialise. My favourite pubs are North Bar, Mr. Foleys, and any of the Leeds Brewery pubs including the Brewery Tap near the train station. For cocktail lovers, there’s Mojo and Sandinista.

For shopping the main area to visit is Briggate where you will find many designer shops in Victoria Quarter. You can also wander down the historic Victorian arcades to find independent traders like OK Comics. Leeds Corn Exchange is the destination if you like boutique shops. Visit Leeds Kirkgate market to purchase local products from fresh meat, clothes, household goods, and electrical equipment.

4. Leeds Waterfront

It often surprises me how many people visit Leeds and do not realise that we have a waterfront. There are three main areas: Granary Wharf, Brewery Wharf, and Clarence Dock. Granary Wharf is where you can sit and watch the boats navigate the locks of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. Brewery Wharf has many bars and restaurants. Finally, Clarence Dock is home of the Royal Armouries museum and is a lovely spot to look at the canal boats. 

5. It's a great base for exploring Yorkshire

Much mentioned above is all within the city centre of Leeds, which is very compact. Just 30 minutes via train, bus, or car and you will find Bolton Abbey. It is the historic city of York, with its cobbled streets and Minster. A short journey away is the seaside town of Scarborough. Therefore, Leeds is the perfect base to explore the beautiful county of Yorkshire!

About the Author: Darren Cronian is the founder of My Life in Leeds, a guide written by local people who love to share their experiences and write trusted recommendations on attractions in Leeds, places to visit, stay and eat around the city.  

Travel Tips 101: Jet Lag

Traveling across time zones can leave even the most savvy of travelers feeling run down. What's your best tip for beating jet lag when you travel?

Please share your advice in the comments section below. In return, we'd love to send you a Where I've Been sticker (great for tagging your luggage with!) Just be sure to include your Twitter handle or email address. Thanks, in advance!

North America’s Top 5 Halls of Fame

When somebody excels at their given profession, especially athletes and entertainers, they’re often entered into their field’s hall of fame. The following are some of the most interesting halls of fame in North America.

1. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame -- Cleveland, Ohio, USA

This hall of fame and museum, located in Cleveland, has an extensive collection of rock and roll artifacts that have been gathered over the decades. The site features a library, archives, exhibits, shop, and museum, etc. Some of the most popular inductees include the Beatles, Chuck Berry, David Bowie, Sam Cooke, the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, and the Who. The museum is open everyday from 10 am to 5:30 pm and on Wednesday it’s open till 9 pm. It’s closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame | Photo Credit

2. The Hockey Hall of Fame -- Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Hockey enthusiasts love visiting this hall of fame as it offers interactive games, multi-media exhibits, equipment,  artifacts, films, and trophies, etc. The games' best players have been inducted here, including Gordie Howe, Bobby Orr, Bobby Hull, Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux, and Borje Salming. Tickets for admission are divided into general, youth, senior and children categories. Children of 3 years and under are allowed free entry.

The Hockey Hall of Fame | Great Hall display | Photo Credit 

3. The Country Music Hall of Fame -- Nashville, Tennessee, USA
Nashville has long been known as the home of country music and it has a hall of fame to prove it. There are numerous displays that showcase outfits from the Grand Ole Opry and cowboy boots of the world’s top country performers. The inductees include George Strait, Alabama, Vince Gill, and Dolly Parton. Gold and platinum packages are available for admission. Platinum package is targeted at music fans and includes a guided tour.

 The Country Music Hall of Fame | Photo Credit

4. The Automotive Hall of Fame -- Dearborn, Michigan, USA
Car enthusiasts consider this place to be their Mecca. It’s located close to Detroit (a.k.a. ‘Motor City’) and it preserves, educates about, and recognizes the world’s automotive heritage. Some of the inductees include Mario Andretti, Harvey S. Firestone, Sr., and Henry Ford. 

The Automotive Hall of Fame | Photo Credit

5. The National Toy Hall of Fame -- Rochester, New York, USA

This place is ideal for children and those who are still young at heart. It sits in Rochester’s Strong National Museum of Play and salutes all of the fantastic achievements in the world of toys over the years. Some of the inductees include the Barbie doll, Monopoly, the Slinky, Etch-A-Sketch, and Play Doh.

The National Toy Hall of Fame | Photo Credit

About the Author: This is a guest post by TheTravelersZone.com. Their travel blog contains useful tips and information to make your vacation a memorable experience.

Packing Tips from the WIB Community

In our post Travel Tips 101: Packing, we asked the question: “What’s your best packing tip?” The comments from you on the WIBlog, your tweets, and Facebook posts were so great that we had to share!

Here are the highlights:

Tips for Saving Space in Your Suitcase

• BAGS... Ziploc, Space Saver, and Pack-Max! This was the No. 1 tip that we received -- you guys love just love all brands of baggies! By squishing out all the air in between your clothing items, we agree that bags are definitely an awesome way to squeeze more stuff into your suitcase.
• But if bags aren't your thing, you can always roll up your clothing. Rolling items provides you with more room in your luggage. If you're very ambitious (and wrinkle conscious), rolling your clothing in tissue paper will help keep clothes smoother for longer.
• Limit yourself to two pairs of shoes -- one for day and one for night. Ladies, we know this may be like parting with your first born, but just think of all the space you will save!

Tips on Packing Light

• Pack basic black clothes. Dark clothing shows less soil and goes with everything! You won't have to pack as many articles of clothing, if you can re-wear items.
• Scarves and other accessories are great items to pack -- they will spruce up your black ensembles very well!
• Though, if black is utterly boring to you, be sure that your colored clothing all coordinates well with each other. The secret to "packing light" is packing less.
• Bring along clothes that you are ready to part with. This may be a junky pair of sweats that you can sleep in and then, toss upon your departure or it could be items that you've grown tired of and deem worthy of donation. Either way, we think this is a great idea -- it also allows for more room to pack souvenirs!
• If the latter, however, one member of the WIB community suggested leaving a note on top the folded clothing which reads: “These are worn and need of cleaning, but they are yours to take or give to someone in need.”

Tips on Keeping Your Accessories Neat, Organized, and Safe

• Nearly every hotel room has shower caps and they are great to pack your shoes in! The plastic barrier will keep your clothes clean from the dirt that may be on your shoes.
• Place jewelry in a “day of the week” pill sorter -- this keeps chains from tangling and earrings from losing their other halves.
• Pack your valuables between layers of clothing. This will keep them safe from prying eyes in security and will also keep them secure when/if your bag gets tossed around a bit in transport.

Tips on Limiting the Chances for Lost Luggage

• When traveling with someone, pack half of your items in the other’s suitcase and vice versa. This way, if one piece of luggage is lost, you won't be totally at a loss.
• Traveling solo? Chances are that you'll have at least two bags; therefore, separate vital pieces and items into each bag.
• And always, carry your most important and treasured items on you (e.g. medication).