Category: Lifestyle

Malaysia offers an eclectic mix of foods, festivals, scenery and much more. In addition to urban adventures in dynamic cities like Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia boasts breathtaking beaches, ancient rainforests, and some of the world’s most astonishing wildlife.

There are endless things to see and do in this extraordinary country. Read on for a roundup of five ways to take it all in on your visit to Malaysia.

1. Soak in Some Sun

Tourists aren’t the only ones who flock to the soft sands and crystal clear waters of Malaysia’s stunning beaches. Lounging on the beach is a way of life for many locals.

If you’re looking for some recreation alongside your relaxation, Malaysia is also home to world-class snorkeling and other water sports. Sipadan Island, Langkawi Island, and Perhentian Island are just a few examples of the country’s phenomenal snorkeling spots.

2. Indulge in the Local Cuisine

Given its melting pot of influences, it’s not surprising that Malaysia lays claim to a vast array of truly delicious dishes.

Malaysians are passionate about their food, and we can’t think of a better way to discover everything the country has to offer than by sampling cuisine like nasi lemak, nasi kerabu, beef rendang, assam laksa, curry laksa, bak kut teh, roti canai, and many others.

Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or street food, be sure to bring your appetite.

3. Prepare to Party

Kuala Lumpur more than earns its reputation as a city that doesn’t sleep. While many people assume that KL’s majority Muslim population means it has inferior nightlife, this couldn’t be further from the truth. You’ll find everything from glittering nightclubs to swanky speakeasies in Changkat Bukit Bintang, AKA the “Times Square of Kuala Lumpur.”

A few of our favorite places to experience Malaysia’s capital city by night? Heli Lounge Bar, The Locker & Loft, and the Roof Stratosphere.

If partying isn’t your style, the city also comes alive at bustling night markets like Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, the Taman Connaught Market, OUG Pasar Malam, and the Klang Lama Night Market.

4. Experience Alor Setar

While  Langkawi may get top billing with tourists, we recommend adding Alor Setar to your itinerary. Not only will you find a cosmopolitan city showcasing traditional shophouses, stunning Islamic architecture, and cultural landmarks like Zahir Mosque, the Royal Hall, the Yellow Palace, and Big Clock Tower, you’ll also enjoy it without the crowds of Langkawi.

A slight way up the coast from Alor Setar is the bustling fishing port of Kuala Kedah, home to northern Malaysia’s oldest fort ruins and a seafood lover’s paradise.

5. Unwind in KLCC Park

Hailed as the “Central Park of Kuala Lumpur,” this 50-acre green area—a destination for locals and tourists alike—features more than 1,900 indigenous trees.

Located in the center of the city in the shadow of the Petronas Twin Towers, KLCC Park offers epic skyline views, a manmade lake featuring an entrancing lake symphony, and a playground and children’s swimming area. Did we mention everything at KLCC Park is free?

There is no other country like France. The French are very proud of their culture and appreciate tourists who want to be travelers and experience everything their country has to offer. They are offended when people visit their country and turn to touristy attractions over authentic French foods and experiences.

For those travelers that step outside of their comfort zone and just take it all in, a trip to France is a memorable experience. Here are five ways to truly know the real France.

Relax and Eat at a French Cafe

The French are very proud of their food. It is safe to say it is a national treasure to them, and it is incredible. Cafes are a staple across France, and it is common to see the French seated outside, enjoying a meal and drinking a glass of French wine. Join them and have a taste of Heaven.

Try Speaking a Little French

Stories abound that the French are rude and disdainful of others, and they are wrong and come from a place of general ignorance.

The French can be some of the nicest people in the world, and all it takes is a little effort to respect their language and culture.

The ability to say even a few words in French goes a long way because they respect that you are trying. Learn just a few, and you’ll see how the French can be genuinely wonderful people.

Visit the Cathedrals

France is home to some of the world’s most famous and beautiful cathedrals and no trip is complete without paying them a visit. Everyone knows Notre Dame in Paris, but every French city has an amazing work of architecture. Enjoy Notre Dame de Strasbourg or the breathtaking view of Paris from the gorgeous Sacre-Coeur Basilica, the crown jewel of the Montemartre quarter.

Watch Paris Traffic

That may sound silly, but few things are more insane than how Parisians drive through the city. You’ve never seen anything like it unless you’ve been to Rome. Traffic laws? Who needs traffic laws? I you’re feeling a little adventurous, hail a cab and go somewhere. New York taxi drivers have nothing on the French. It’s actually a lot of fun.

Hike in the Alps

Most people think of Switzerland when they think of the Alps. Well, France has 35,000 square kilometers of stunning Alpen scenery for you to wander through and many small villages that are authentic and not tourist traps. Go enjoy the beauty.

Window Shop on the Champs-Élysėes

You are in fashion and antique central when in France. Even if it’s just window shopping, check out the incredible designers on the Champs-Élysėes. Most people can’t afford them, but it’s a peak in France’s passion for Haute Couture. Also, just walking on the Champs-Élysėes at night is an experience all its own.

The list of authentic French experiences is so long that five don’t even begin to touch everything. Go authentic and skip McDonald’s, even if it was talked about in Pulp Fiction. The French will be happy that you are experiencing their culture, of which they are incredibly proud.

America is a fun country to explore by car. You’ll find everything from the glamour of Beverly Hills to the frenetic pace of New York City to the charming small towns that dot the Midwest. And, of course, you’ll also have more than 420 national parks that you can visit, as well as state parks, beaches and deserts. For the most part, your biggest issue when planning a USA road trip will be narrowing down the sites that you’ll want to visit. Still, before you hit the road, you’ll want to check out these five tips that will help make your cross-country trip a successful one.

1. Make Reservations in Advance for Popular Sites

Many of the popular spots in the USA can book up months in advance. For example, if you want to stay at a campsite or hotel in Yellowstone Park, you may have to make your reservation a year in advance. Disney World tickets for popular dates can also book up months in advance. In addition, some national parks — such as Yosemite and Glacier National Parks — are also limiting the number of visitors that can enter on a daily basis by requiring advanced reservations. These requirements can change suddenly, so always check a park’s website for the most up-to-date information.

2. Don’t Let Your Gas Run Low

In many areas of America, you can travel for long distances without seeing a gas station and/or restaurants. So, if your gauge is on the low side, don’t take chances, especially if you’re out in the country or in the desert — fill up your tank. Oh, and while you’re at it, make sure to use the restroom and pick up some snacks for the road.

3. Don’t Be Overly Ambitious

America is vast. The distance between the east and west coast of the contiguous 48 states is approximately 3,000 miles; from north to south, about 1,600 miles. It’s an important factor to consider when planning your itinerary. Your destinations may not be as close as you think. You should also keep in mind that 15 miles on the traffic-choked streets of Los Angeles is going to take a lot longer than out in the middle of the desert. Also, make sure to leave time in your itinerary to stop at some of America’s quirky roadside attractions.

4. Be Prepared for Weather Extremes

If you’ll be traveling across the USA, be prepared for every type of weather. For example, if you’ll be traveling in March, you could run into a blizzard in Montana, a heat wave in California, or tornadoes in Texas. So, make sure to bring gear for all types of weather. Also take the time before you hit the road to check the weather forecast for your intended route.

5. Share Your Itinerary with Loved Ones

Road trips are fun. But they can also have those moments that make great stories later, but can be frightening while they’re occurring. Your rental car, for instance, could break down, or you could get into an accident. By sharing your itinerary with a loved one, they can keep track of your progress. And if you fail to reach a certain destination, they could alert the authorities that you are missing and could be in need of help.

Few people enjoy air travel. The idea of being cramped on an airplane for hours can be daunting. However, your experience at the airport can make or break your travel plans. Canceled flights, delays, and lost luggage are all things that can make the airport the worst. So what are the five worst airports in Europe? 

1. Heathrow Airport

London’s Heathrow is at the top of many “worst” airport lists. According to a survey conducted by Priority Pass, airline passengers agree. This airport is known for its lengthy flight delays and lost bag problems. They also top the list for flight cancellations.

Getting to Heathrow will cost you, too. It’s a long journey via the tube. You can take the Heathrow Express from Paddington station in West London and get there in just 15 minutes, but it is an expensive ride. 

The good news is if you get stuck at Heathrow Airport, there is plenty to do there. It is a little like a shopping mall inside, which also serves as an airport. 

2. Gatwick Airport

You won’t fare much better at Gatwick Airport in London. It is the city’s second busiest, and reviewers say it is just as bad. It has some of the same problems, too. It is known for its flight delays and cancellations. It has warned people against bringing luggage to check because of their staff shortages. Gatwick has notoriously tiny waiting rooms, and on a recent hot day in London, people were passing out due to the lack of air conditioning. 

Transportation to and from the airport isn’t much better at Gatwick, either. You can take a long bus or train ride and pay less. If you want to take the Gatwick Express, it will get you to Central London in just 15 minutes, but the ride will cost you almost twice as much. 

3. Lisbon Portela Airport

Lisbon is facing the same delays and cancellations that are plaguing Europe airports. Passengers also complain about long lines at immigration with some waiting hours to get through. On top of all that, Lisbon is an older facility, and an increase in passengers creates chaos. That is exactly what happened as Europe lifted its COVID-19 restrictions. The queues at Lisbon backed up, and people stood in lines for everything. 

4.  Chania International Airport 

Chania Airport in Crete, Greece, is described as “chaotic.” Passengers there report having to stand in lines for hours at a time and sometimes even queuing outside the airport. If you are stuck there, there is little to do but wait. This airport doesn’t offer much dazzle and entertainment. What food you can get isn’t the best and is costly. There is also minimal seating. 

5. Crete Herakleion International Airport

Unfortunately, you won’t do much better at the Herakleion in Crete. It has a reputation for having long lines and no air conditioning. While you can find something to eat there, you will pay top dollar for it. Also, the bathrooms are dirty and unkept. 

Flying is taxing at best. When the airport is the worst, it impacts your whole trip. 

Going on a motorcycle road trip can be the experience of a lifetime! From feeling the cool breeze on your skin to seeing some majestic scenery, there really isn’t anything like it. However, while these trips are always incredible, you never know when something can go wrong. To lower the chances of experiencing a problem, make sure you know what to expect.

Keep reading to learn 5 things to know before embarking on your motorcycle travel adventure.

Know how to pack effectively

If you’re about to ride off on your first motorcycle road trip, you may have no idea what to pack. For starters, it’s important to understand how to pack lightly. On many occasions, people pack way more than they need for their first motorcycle adventure. Not only does this take up valuable space on your bike, but it can also weigh you down. The heavier your bike is, the more you pay in gas. If you need more room, consider purchasing a luggage carrier that attaches to your bike. As far as what to pack, only carry the essentials, including clothes for unexpected weather.

Understand how exhausted you might be

Especially if this is your first motorcycle road trip, make sure you understand how tiring the venture can get. While you won’t be running up a mountain, riding a motorcycle takes a lot out of you—much more than driving a car. That said, be sure to plan for breaks and rest stops. This is even more important if you’re riding in extremely cold or hot weather, as these conditions can wear you out faster. Also, staying hydrated is vital. Not drinking enough can make you feel fatigued and even lightheaded, so it’s best to stay hydrated at all times. If you don’t enjoy stopping for water breaks, invest in a hydration pack.

Know the best time to grab food

While staying hydrated is essential, eating right is also highly important. Unless you pack your own meals, you’ll want to understand when and where you’ll stop for food. If you want to get back on the road quickly, it’s best to stop at off-peak eating hours. For example, grab lunch at 10:30 am instead of noon. This lowers the chance of experiencing large crowds and long wait times at restaurants. This is even more important if you’re driving on a busy highway. If there are only a few restaurants along the road, these may be packed during normal eating hours.

Understand your riding limits

It’s important to never overdo it on your motorcycle. If you’re planning a long-distance ride, make sure you understand how many miles you can drive each day. This number largely depends on your preferences and experience level. While some riders have no trouble venturing 1,000 miles in 24 hours, this can be a massive challenge for beginners. If you’re just starting out, consider riding about 150 miles/day until you build up endurance. As you get more comfortable, around 300 miles/day should be your goal.

Know the right tools and items to bring

You would hate to be in the middle of nowhere without the right tools. To ensure a safe and stress-free trip, understand which tools and items to take on your ride. This list should include a tire-plug kit, air pump, earplugs, extra gloves, wrenches, sockets, headlamps, flashlights, a Swiss Army knife, and a stocked first aid kit.

Going on a motorcycle adventure can be life-changing! By understanding the points above, you can stay safe and make the most of your trip.

Impress your friends with your knowledge of these crazy facts about New York City.

1. New York Food Firsts

Food inventions that come from New York include:

• English muffins
• Spaghetti and meatballs
• Eggs benedict
• Pasta primavera
• Ice cream cones

Pizza is not a New York invention. It came from Italy. However, New York-style pizza-by-the-slice is world famous. The first American pizzeria, Lombardi’s Pizza, located at 32 Spring Street, opened in 1905 and is still operating.

2. Weird Freedoms and Bizarre Laws

New York has a history of weird laws and unusual freedoms. This problem happens because many regulations become part of the legal record, and there is no process to review and remove them. Once a law exists, it may stay on the books forever, even if it seems absurd.

• Going topless, for all sexes, is legal in public.
• Showing your breasts in public is no problem; however, if a man wears a suit jacket, his pants must match.
• Honking is illegal, and so is farting while in church. It seems like these laws are never enforced.
• It is against the law to take a stroll on Sunday with an ice cream cone in your pocket.
• You might get a fine for having an illegal puppet show in your window.
• There is no peeing on pigeons allowed in Central Park.
• It is illegal to let your donkey sleep in your bathtub.

3. Strange Items at the Library

The New York Public Library has many strange and weird things in its archives, which include:

• A collection of human hair with some locks from Wild Bill Hickok, Mary Shelley (author of Frankenstein), and Walt Whitman
• A letter opener made from the paw of Charles Dickens’ favorite cat
• Jack Kerouac’s boots, cigarette lighter, harmonicas, and a postcard where he wrote “blood” using some of his blood

4. Mole People

“Mole People” are homeless people who live underground in abandoned subway tunnels, railway tunnels no longer in use, airshafts, and the sewer system. There are nearly 60,000 people who sleep each night above ground in the homeless shelters provided by the city. No one knows exactly how many homeless people live underground, but the number must be huge.

The so-called “Freedom Tunnel” is packed with people. In 1980, Amtrak stopped using this tunnel for its railway line. Homeless people have used the 2.6-mile-long tunnel ever since.

There is a book about them called Tunnel People written by Teun Voeten and a documentary film called Dark Days that UK filmmaker Marc Singer produced.

5. Missing Persons

Each year there are over 13,000 missing-persons reports in New York City. Most are found, yet hundreds become added to the group of long-term missing persons when they are missing for two months or longer. Even more strange are the thousands of records of unidentified persons. These bodies the police find, and nobody knows who they are.

The New York Department of Medical Examiner works to help identify the bodies of the “Jane” and “John Does” to determine who they are. They ask families of missing persons across the country to send samples for potential DNA matching and give information for identification purposes only.

The Medical Examiner’s staff does the difficult forensic work to determine who the police just pulled out of the East River, floating face down.

World travelers regard Rio De Janeiro as one of the greatest cities in South America if not the world. From its famous iconic landmarks to tremendous natural beauty to its rich cultural history, this city is truly one of a kind.

Read on to ensure that you don’t miss these five “must see” attractions during your Rio De Janeiro vacation.

1. Christ the Redeemer

One of the most famous large-scale statues in the world, Christ the Redeemer is all the more impressive due to the majestic setting that surrounds it. Mounted at the top of Rio De Janeiro’s Corcovado Peak, this figure seems to embrace the entire city in its massive outstretched arms. Although there are many bigger statues in existence, Christ the Redeemer is the biggest to be constructed out of concrete and soapstone. Visitors can ride a vertical cog train to the base of the statue and then take a series of elevators, escalators, and/or stairsteps to its very top.

2. Copacabana Beach

Tourists mingle freely with locals on bustling Copacabana Beach. People play soccer and volleyball in the sand as fisherman offer their morning catch for sale and venders enthusiastically hawk snacks and beverages from a line of kiosks. Visitors love to stroll along the beautiful historical promenade that stretches a mile and a half along the beach. It is also worthwhile to check out the Copacabana Fort Museum, an active military base with a series of wartime exhibits that are open to the public.

3. Sugar Loaf Mountain

Located remarkably close to Copacabana Beach, Sugar Loaf Mountain is a particularly great destination at sunset. In fact, visitors can even take in the sunset while they ascend to the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain in glass-walled cable cars called “bondinhos” or “teleféricos.” At the end of the trip, they find themselves roughly 1,300 feet above the inlet of Guanabara Bay. The peak is also home to a broad spectrum of wildlife that includes giant anteaters and marmoset monkeys.

4. Jardim Botanico

The crown jewel of Rio de Janeiro’s Lagoa neighborhood, the Jardim Botanico (or Botanical Garden) is home to more than 8,000 plant species. The biggest draws at the Jardim Botanico include its avenues of towering palm trees, its roughly 600 species of orchids, and its Japanese garden complete with manicured pond and water lilies. It is also home to numerous impressive artistic monuments as well as the environmental exhibitions of the new Museu do Meio Ambiente.

5. The Carioca Aqueduct

A defining landmark of the Lapa neighborhood, the Carioca Aqueduct is also known as the Lapa Arches. This is because the Carioca Aqueduct, which supplied fresh drinking water to the city in the 18th century, is no longer operational, but the arches that once supported it are still there. The most prominent feature of the Carioca Aqueduct is a segment that consists of two stories of massive white arches.