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Tips for First-Time Travelers to Tunisia Venice City Guide Family-Friendly Airlines Where to Shop in Macau
 

Two Great Restaurants in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is regarded as the oldest mall in the world. People have come here from all over the world to shop since 1461 when it opened. Commodities sold in the Grand Bazaar range from jewelry to food. As a popular tourist destination inIstanbul, the Grand Bazaar, of course, boasts some great features. [...]

Tips for First-Time Travelers to Tunisia

Tips for First-Time Travelers to Tunisia

Since the revolution, Tunisia has been making a good recovery.  Tourism there has opened its door again to increase the national revenue.  There are many things to do while in Tunisia, especially after the Arab Spring, which resulted in some radical changes across the country.  In case you haven’t seen the beauty of this country [...]

Venice City Guide

Venice City Guide

Venice isn’t that big of a city–spread out over hundreds of islands, quaint canals snaking their way in between.  In peak season, the city can get crowded, so be prepared to make lots of new friends when you’re checking out the big attractions like Piazza San Marco and its amazing basilica, Doge’s Palace, and the [...]

Family-Friendly Airlines

Family-Friendly Airlines

Flying with young children can be either fun or disastrous. Kids often can’t stand the pressure when they are in the cabin. In fact, infants might shriek with ear pain when the pressure shifts suddenly. Older kids might be less worrisome, but the stress will always there. However, some airlines have their own way to [...]

Where to Shop in Macau

Where to Shop in Macau

Macau is a popular shopping destination among shopaholics thanks to the island’s free port status. People can buy brand label antiques, outfits, and even home appliances at cheaper prices compared to other shopping areas that implement strict tax policies. Here are some great places to shop in Macau. Coloane Market Local markets offer various goods, [...]

Two Great Restaurants in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar

View of Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is regarded as the oldest mall in the world. People have come here from all over the world to shop since 1461 when it opened. Commodities sold in the Grand Bazaar range from jewelry to food.

As a popular tourist destination inIstanbul, the Grand Bazaar, of course, boasts some great features.  Among the many options, there are certain restaurants that can be great dining options if you make it to the Grand Bazaar.

These two restaurants are generally seen as the best of the best. Try them out if you have the chance to visit this wonderful bazaar:

Gaziantep Burç Ocakbaşi

Gaziantep Burç Ocakbaşi is tucked away on a small street close to a busy street in the Grand Bazaar area. The restaurant’s specialty is cuisine from Gaziantep, one of the most prominent cities around, which have has many tasty food options.

Located in southeast Turkey, Gaziantep’s cuisine is largely influenced by Oguz Turks and Aleppo. The region’s dishes differ from other cuisine in Turkey, including the great starter called ali nazik. It’s a home-style Turkish kebab made from marinated baby lamb or beef with spiced eggplant puree on the top of it.

Then try the salad, too. The vibrant pomegranate molasses and shredded walnuts on top is truly fresh and delicious. The specialty of this restaurant is the dolmas, made from sun-dried eggplant and rehydrated red peppers stuffed with a blend of herbs and rice.  It doesn’t contain meat, but a yogurt sauce makes the food beyond delicious.

The restaurant has just a number of tables available. Decor includes strings of dried peppers and eggplant, which, in combination with the smoke from the grill, lends the perfect atmosphere to call people in who need to fill up before they start shopping again.

Aynen Durum

Aynen Durum is a small kebab shack that has great durum wraps. The shack is almost invisible, as there’s always a group of people out front, waiting to get the crave-worthy wraps.  The setting is more like a place for an eating contest, as everyone there eats with gusto. Ismail, the shop’s most famous face, hasn’t stopped taking care of his hungry for over 10 years.

He lets customers pick between two contrasting lavas: thin or thick. Ismael isn’t kidding with his business. Want to know his tagline? It’s “The Motherland of Kebab.”  Try the lamb shish kebab and a durum of Adana kebab. Let the griller choose the best lava for them.

The grilled meat is very tasty and is accompanied by parsley and tomato.  The combination of fat, spice, and meat is just perfect. The Motherland of Kebab opens from Monday to Saturday, at 7.00 am to 6.00 pm. Ismael takes a break every Sunday.

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Tips for First-Time Travelers to Tunisia

Tunisia1

Since the revolution, Tunisia has been making a good recovery.  Tourism there has opened its door again to increase the national revenue.  There are many things to do while in Tunisia, especially after the Arab Spring, which resulted in some radical changes across the country.  In case you haven’t seen the beauty of this country before, here are some suggestions:

Caves

Reenact a scene from The Flintstone’s by sleeping in a cave while in Tunisia. It could be your only chance to lay your head inside a troglodyte cave. Hotel Marhala will serve you well in presenting the cave experience. The rooms are splendidly dug out of the ground and there is no ordinary thing in here. At the hotel’s restaurant, try the succulent Tunisian brik.  Star Wars lovers will feel a sense of déjà vu, envisioning the scene when Luke Skywalker looked out at the twin suns, dreaming of traveling in the outer space.  ooking around the hotel will make you feel like you’re standing right next to him.

Seafood

Restaurant El Mansourah is located right on the Mansourah beach just two kilometers north of Kelibia. Its sand beaches are considered some of the best of the Mediterranean. You can have your meals while enjoying the beautiful ocean view. The seafood is definitely a must-try, as is the fine wine selection.

Dar Am Taieb Museum

Located in Sousse, the Dar Am Taieb Museum has a collection of dazzling contemporary art. Taieb Ben Ahmad, the founder, even includes junk that has been brilliantly recycled into works of art. Both adults and children will love the museum–Ahmed’s daughter even makes contributions to the museum. While he has galleries and beautiful gardens, his daughter can superbly dance and perform music and poetry.

Louage

Louage is public transportation in the form of a shared taxi , its cost cheaper than the ordinary taxi, saving you lots of money.  If you get lucky, you can be in the same cabin with locals who can share some useful tips regarding their country.  Exploring Tunisia by using Louage is definitely recommended. Start your journey in Sousse and continue to the Roman city of Sufetula, which has a Roman legacy, including temples, a theater, and a triumphal arch.

Hang Out

Tunisia has its own lager, but some think it’s a bit on the gassy side.   If you want something “real,” head to Brauhaus Le Berbere, close to the Medina on the central square in Hammamet. Three quality German-style beers are served there.  And it makes the perfect pace to just hang out for a little while.

Middle-Class

Restaurant Le Neptune, Carthage is a middle-class locals’ darling for lunch. La Neptune serves fantastic seafood right by the sea. While eating lobster on the outside terrace, you can relish the stunning view of Cap Bon and Tunis Bay. There’s nothing sophisticated about the menu, but all of the dishes are offered at reasonable prices.

Posted in Africa, Food and Wine, Travel Guides, Travel Tips, Tunisia, Uncategorized0 Comments

Venice City Guide

venezia bella

Venice isn’t that big of a city–spread out over hundreds of islands, quaint canals snaking their way in between.  In peak season, the city can get crowded, so be prepared to make lots of new friends when you’re checking out the big attractions like Piazza San Marco and its amazing basilica, Doge’s Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs.  But there’s plenty of opportunity to get lots and have a piece of the city to yourself–to get lost along the narrow alleyways and discover an untouched Venice to call your own.  Still, no matter the number of tourists, Venice has enough hotel rooms to house them all.

Venice is busiest during early summer and late spring, but there are always plenty of reasons to come to the city year-round: the warmth, the classic architectures, the love, everything.

In the middle of the summer, things get slightly quieter–perhaps its the mosquitoes or the heat that make people think twice before coming for a vacation. So, if you’re looking for a warm yet slower time to enjoy Venice, try August, the end of September, or October.  During those times, you’ll find hotels offering many interesting discounts. If you are a huge fan of film, head there at the end of August/early September for the Venice Film Festival.

venice-carnival

Another great time to go to Venice is in February during Carnevale.  Thousands of people head to Venice every year to don a mask, party in the streets, and enjoy a little bit of sinning before the solemn period of Lent.  During Carnevale, you’ll see people dressed up in elaborate costumes, concerts in tucked-away piazzas, and lots of revelry throughout the city.

Venice is a paradise for the pedestrians. The streets, alleyways, and bridges are friendly to those who love to stroll while enjoying the sights. Venice residents usually very hospitable toward tourists. If someone says “grazie,” it is strongly suggested that you reply “prego.”

Water buses area must-try form of public transportation while in Venice. There are a number of waterbus routes, but the primary ones leave from Santa Lucia station and Piazzale Roma. You can take a waterbus to some of Venice’s other islands, like Murano and Burano.  There also water taxis for a more private experience–they’re quite pricey, but offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience.  And then there are the iconic gondolas–perfect for a romantic evening with your loved one.

About Venice:

 

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Family-Friendly Airlines

aeroporto

Flying with young children can be either fun or disastrous. Kids often can’t stand the pressure when they are in the cabin. In fact, infants might shriek with ear pain when the pressure shifts suddenly. Older kids might be less worrisome, but the stress will always there.

However, some airlines have their own way to deal with this kind of problem. Here are 7 airlines that can be very friendly to kids during flights up above:

1.  Emirates
The Emirates’ good name ensures all passengers’ comfort and safety.  Before the flight, Emirates provide strollers for parents who bring along toddlers.  After takeoff, kids can play with toys provided by the airline, and in first and business classes, you’ll even find play areas.  Meanwhile, older children can be entertained by in-fight movies, TV, and games. (http://www.emirates.com)

2. British Airways
British Airways provides nutritious meals for kids as the airlines follows a “Feed Kids First” policy.  Toddlers can even ride for free if the parents follow these two requirements: call ahead to secure a spot in the bulkhead and bring a Britax booster seat. Packs of games and other activities are also provided while flying, plus there’s plenty of in-flight entertainment. (http://www.britishairways.com/)     Continue Reading

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Where to Shop in Macau

Macau is a popular shopping destination among shopaholics thanks to the island’s free port status. People can buy brand label antiques, outfits, and even home appliances at cheaper prices compared to other shopping areas that implement strict tax policies. Here are some great places to shop in Macau.

Coloane Market
Local markets offer various goods, foods, home appliances, and electronics. Visiting the Coloane Market by the Eduardo Marques Square will be a new experience for you.

Red Market

Red Market
The Red Market is located on the corner of Avenida Horta e Costa and Avenida Almirante Lacerda. The market stands in the middle of great modern and classical landmarks that have historical value. iErected in 1936, the Art Deco market designed by Alberto Basto is the best place to buy fresh meat, fish, and fruit.

Flora Garden
Flora Garden is located close to the Red Market in inner harbor area. Different from the Red Market, this market specializes in clothes, electronics, cosmetics, and jewelry.     Continue Reading

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Top South American Gastronomy

South America is where everything exotic and natural beauty meet–a beautiful combination of mountains, forests, people, and, of course, the gastronomy makes South America one of the world’s top tourist destinations.

South American gastronomy offers an extensive option of cuisines that suits nearly any palate. Three countries in South America that have the most seducing gastronomy are Brazil, Peru, and Argentina.

Argentina

Argentina - ParillaArgentina is world-reknown for its beef. With the country’s extensive grasslands,it is a superb home for cows. Fed a natural diet and given lots of space to roam, Argentinean cows provide high-quality, delicious beef. If you have the chance, order a parillada for dinner. It is a grilled beef served generously in a large portion. The juicy beef, mostly without bones, is soft and totally delicious. For the companion, order some wine. It’s heaven.       Continue Reading

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Five Tricks to Finding Reasonable Prices when Planning a Vacation

Traveling is something everybody enjoys. Whether the trip is for leisure, education or business, it’s usually a pleasure to visit a new place and get to know the local culture and customs. But travelers don’t always know about the different ways they can save money when taking a trip; here are some tricks passed on by experienced travelers:

1. Research the Area

Staying near the Spanish Steps in Rome will drive up hotel rates.  Choose to stay and eat away from main attractions to save money.

Staying near the Spanish Steps in Rome will drive up hotel rates. Choose to stay and eat away from main attractions to save money.

Make sure to find out the main center and attractions of the destination you’re visiting, and then remember that staying there, eating there, shopping there, and going out there is always going to be more expensive. Plan to stay in a hotel outside of that area and look up some good restaurants and stores in different neighborhoods as well.

2. Use Good Hotel Provider and Travel Websites
The most useful way to find deals and good prices for flights and hotels is through the Internet. There are many hotel provider sites that are excellent for helping you research, including laterooms.com, hotelclub.com, prontohotel.com, and booking.com or travel sites like travelocity.com, orbitz.com, priceline.com, and travelnow.com. Most of these sites, whether they only offer hotel prices or provide everything, will compare prices online to find the best deals for you, taking all of the stress and work out of finding a great hotel to fit your needs and budget. With just one click, you’ll have a long list of different price options to choose from.   Continue Reading

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Rome Airport Transfer

Rome Airport Transfer

If you arrive in Rome by airplane, the first problem you’ll need to solve is to find the transfer from the airport to your hotel, which often is very distant.

If you arrive in Fiumicino Airport you have many choices. First, there is the train that can transport you to the central station “Termini”. If you prefer, there are a lot of private transfers from Fiumicino airport to the city centre: you can choose between bus shuttle or taxi. Also, if you arrive in Ciampino Airport (Rome’s second, smaller airport with low-cost airlines) you can choose between train, taxi, private transfer, or shuttle services.   Continue Reading

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The Best Country to Get Married Abroad

In order to make the wedding day is more sacred. A lot of people prefer to go abroad to hold their wedding party. Wedding day should be once in a lifetime, so it should be arranged as wonderful as possible.

Realizing that wedding is the very special moment in life, many people will not think twice to spend a lot of money in order to make their dream of wedding day becomes reality. If you also have a plan to set your wedding day abroad, here are 5 best countries that often chosen by other people all around the world to hold the wedding ceremony.

1. Turkey

A ggod view of the sea

Turkey is categorized as Middle East country. This country is the area of Europe and Asia come together. That’s why, turkey is famous with its mixing culture and traditions, which is a result of the combination between the cultures and traditions of European and Asian. If you want to get married in this country, you should come to the city, named Santorini. In Santorini, most of the hotels offer the guests some excellent wedding packages. This would be an advantage for you who want to say the wedding vow in this historical and cultural country.

2. France

The famous Louvre pyramid

No doubt if talking about romance then France will directly come up to people’s mind. The best romantic city in France is Paris. In Paris, you will find most of romantic restaurants, romantic buildings and landmarks, the famous one is Eiffel Tower. After see Paris with your own eyes, you will absolutely say this city is nothing, but romance. It is because all the place that you visited send a romance nuance to your mind and feeling. Therefore, Paris is the most-wanted destination all around the world to feel the romance that it give.

3. Dubai

View of a typical Palace

Dubai is included in United Arab Emirates (UAE). This is the most populated city. Some people believe, it is caused by the beautiful city architectural, and the proper urban planning. Moreover, this city consist of several “wow” building which very unique. Idea of getting married in this city is the great idea. Even, it is in the Middle East land, the beauty and the romantic side still can be felt it.        Continue Reading

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Most Remarkable Pristine Islands in North America

It is getting hard for people in general to find some pristine islands that rarely or even never had been visited by human beings. But do you know that there are 10 outstanding uninhabited islands just right up the North America?

1. San Miguel Island

San Miguel is located off the coast of Southern California. The 9,500 acres natural beauty has neither water nor services from the government. Thus, the National Park Service gives a warning for the visitors that they must be prepared for the worst. Over 600 Chumash archeological sites are spread around the island, waiting to be explored and admired.

Other information about the history of San Miguel Island: en.wikipedia.org

2. Lovells Island

Hig view

Lovells Island is uninhabited yet easy to access from Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area. You can camp in the island, accompanied by the quite ambiance of the beach and historical remains. The Boston Light can be seen from the island. And if you are lucky, you might witness the migratory birds flying up above the sky.    Continue Reading

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