Category: Travel

Heading to Scotland? Some tourists are perfectly happy to get the full tourist experience, but if you prefer a more authentic visit, your itinerary may look a bit different. Check out five ways to get to know the real Scotland. 

1. Visit a few lochs besides Loch Ness 

A loch is simply a lake or body of water that is at least mostly surrounded by land. And, Scotland is known for some of the most gorgeous lochs you can imagine. If you want to get to know the real Scotland, however, there are lochs far more rewarding than Loch Ness. Loch Ness is no doubt a nice place to visit—hey, who wouldn’t want a chance to catch sight of Nessie (aka The Loch Ness Monster)? But, if you want to set your eyes on some even more picturesque bodies of Scotland water, consider others like Loch Maree in the Highlands or Loch Awe near Dalmally. 

2. Check out small towns outside the main tourist attractions 

Certain Scottish cities are known as major tourist attractions, such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeenshire. These cities no doubt have a lot to do and see: museums, castles, bus tours, you name it. However, if you want to get an inside look at what life in Scotland is truly like, trek your way to some smaller, less-visited towns. Pittenweem, for example, is a seaside village north of Edinburgh. Here, you can stroll the streets, check out the fishing harbor, and buy fresh fish right from the local fishermen. 

3. Grab food from smaller cafés and eateries 

Scotland has some pretty amazing food, even if names like Cullen skink and neeps and tatties can sound a little odd. You’ll have no trouble finding amazing dining opportunities in just about any town. But food favorites can also vary from town to town. So, if you want something a little more cozy and local, check out the smaller cafes and eateries. For example, The Ceilidh Place in Ullapool is a quaint little place with a menu full of local ingredients. 

4. Book a stay in a bed and breakfast 

Scotland is full of inns and hostels, both of which can give you a chance to mingle with other travelers. However, if you’re looking to get to know the real Scotland, book a stay in a bed and breakfast instead. These more private accommodations put you in a residential environment in an authentic Scotland home. Plus, guests at B&Bs are more likely to be locals, and you get the chance to enjoy some local home-cooked food. 

5. Check in at neighborhood pubs 

Local pubs tend to be full of friendly locals. While some pubs are hot spots for tourists, such as Deacon Brodies Tavern in Edinburgh, the best way to find and mingle with the locals is to visit those establishments that are a little less noteworthy. You can find small pubs tucked into many neighborhoods in Scotland, and most are not all that large or flashy. Just the same, walk in and order a dram and the locals will likely strike up a conversation. 

If the sum of what you know about Ireland is “When Irish Eyes are Smiling” and kissing the Blarney Stone, then you’re in for a surprise when you arrive in Ireland.

But it’s a pleasant surprise. Here are some tips for finding the authentic Ireland.

Jive to the Music and the Dance

There’s simply no way to separate the country from its music and dance, so just give in to it when you have a chance. And chances are, you’ll have plenty of opportunities. It doesn’t matter if your voice doesn’t match the quality of a noted Irish tenor. It’s the spirit of it, after all. Dublin is a great place to experience Irish music and dance — and don’t be surprised if you find yourself humming those haunting tunes as you fall asleep at night!

Head for the Country

Dublin, Cork, Kilkenny, Galway, Waterford, and Limerick are all worth seeing, but it’s the wilder, “less traveled” parts of Ireland that will capture your heart and leave a lasting impression on your soul. Spend some time, if at all possible, just walking the hills, exploring the craggy seaside cliffs, and wandering the back roads. Surf in the cool water of the Atlantic, or follow a dirt path until the road ends. Pull on your boots and follow a muddy riverbed until you find the headwaters, then stop for a picnic lunch. This is the “real” Ireland.

Book a Stay in a Cozy B&B

Forego the chain hotels, and seek out an off-the-beaten-track, small, family-owned pension or bed and breakfast in a small town. Settle in for a few days of peace and an adventure that will score a “10” on the pleasure index. Rent a bicycle, or walk. Strike up conversations with locals. You won’t regret it!

Put Aside the “Normal”

Embrace “wellness” in Ireland — a renaissance is currently underway. Visit a spa to tailor a treatment regimen to your personal preferences — indulge yourself with a sauna experience, aromatherapy, a steam room and whole-body workout, a dip in a natural hot spring followed by an invigorating massage, or a treatment with essential oils. It’s just another way to immerse yourself in local culture and “go Irish,” no matter how long or short your visit may be.

Indulge Your Inner Foodie

If you’ve ever thought that Irish food is bland and tasteless, a visit to the country should change your mind after just a couple of meals. Contemporary Irish chefs have rewritten the rules and the recipes. You’ll discover a new tradition that has its roots in organically grown, eco-friendly production — savor the taste of fresh beef and poultry, locally sourced, organically grown produce, cheeses, and breads that offer a new twist on tradition, and innovative dishes and menus that will have you clamoring for more!

Then, of course, there’s the beer and Irish Whiskey — be sure to visit a traditional Irish Pub — not for the spirits alone, but for the spirit that is sure to draw you in!

 

https://www.irishcentral.com/roots/irishcentrals-top-ten-theme-vacations-in-ireland-121624979-237386571

https://blarneycastle.ie/pages/kiss-the-blarney-stone

https://www.tripsavvy.com/irelands-largest-towns-and-cities-4174513

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 your palate and 

You can vacation like a tourist. Or, you can vacation like a traveler. What’s the difference between the two? The former sees a destination through the eyes of an outsider, while a traveler experiences the world like a local.

If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines and want to be in the second category, we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn five ways to soak in all the splendor of the Philippines while enjoying a truly authentic and immersive experience.

1. Feast on Filipino Foods

One of the best ways to get to know a country is to savor the local fare. And you’re in luck in the Philippines. Not only is the country’s cuisine delicious, it’s also affordable.

A few of our favorite Filipino dishes include tocino, AKA “Filipino bacon;” kinilaw, raw fish in a vinegar-marinade; sinigang, a sour stew and the ultimate Filipino “comfort food;” adobe, often cited as the national dish of the Philippines; and lechon, seasoned, slow-roasted suckling pig.

The perfect sweet treat to end any meal? The shaved ice and evaporated milk concoction, halo halo. 

2. Be flexible—but not punctual

There’s nothing wrong with having a plan, but tying yourself down to an unalterable itinerary can prevent you from the joy of unexpected and unanticipated discoveries that won’t be found in any guidebook.

On a related note, if you’re lucky enough to be invited to visit a local’s home in the Philippines, don’t ever be on time;. While showing up late for a social engagement may be polite in some countries, it’s considered rude to be punctual in the Philippines. To be greeted with enthusiasm as opposed to dismay, plan on arriving a respectable 15 minutes late.

3. Let it go—and karaoke

Karaoke is pretty much a way of life in the Philippines. Regardless of whether you think you’re the next American Idol or you’ve never sung a note outside the privacy of your car or shower, you must take the mic for a spin if you truly want to live like the locals.

And remember—no one will judge you if you sound like a yodeling cat. By the same token, however, you should be respectful of the talent (or lack thereof) of the other singers.

4.  Go island hopping

The Philippines is home to a breathtaking 7,000 islands—each with its own distinctive vibe and flavor. One way to experience a variety of what the Philippines has to offer? Go island hopping.

Here are a few ideas for where to go and what to see while you’re there. Exploring Cebu’s stunning Inambakan Falls and epic Sardine Run, swimming with the sharks on remote Malapascua, discovering Palawan’s hidden lagoons and breathtaking beaches, splashing with the giant sea turtles on Dumaguette, scootering around pristine Coron, and taking in the showstopping sunset on Cambari.

5. Go off-the-beaten-path

Attractions like Puka Beach (and the shops there), Metro Manila, and any establishments or tours billing themselves as “the largest” or “the best” are likely to be packed with tourists. The locals, however, avoid these places like the plague. Another red flag that an establishment caters to tourists? Signs and menus that are written in English and other foreign languages.

Instead of relying on the same guidebooks every other tourist is using to plan each element of your trip, ask a local—such as the hotel concierge, a taxi driver, or your Airbnb host.

On that note, one last way to live like the locals? Live with the locals. Staying in someone’s home through a vacation rental or other home sharing arrangement will give you a much more authentic perspective of life in the Philippines—as well as access to someone who may be able to offer insights on the best neighborhood places in the to eat, shop, and discover.

From the outside, China may seem homogenous and monocultural, but once you delve further, you’ll find out that assumption is wrong. With 56 official ethnic groups and 100s of other unique communities throughout the country, it is almost impossible to get to know it all. But you can get a deeper understanding of the country than most visitors if you are willing to make a little effort. Here are things you can do to know the real China better. 

Five Ways to Better Understand China

Number 5: Stay Away From Guided Tours

The draw to join a guided tour when visiting China is strong. After all, you can’t speak the language, and most tour groups seem like a good value. Although you will probably save money and see a lot more touristy stuff with a group, you definitely won’t see the real China, but only an approved and sanitized version of it. Independent travel may be more expensive and riskier, but it is worth it overall. A good travel guidebook and phone translator can help make traveling to China on your own very doable. 

Number 4: Understand the Political Landscape

Politics play a tremendous role in the lives of ordinary Chinese people from their school days onwards. The government delivers a codified political message through the country’s news and most aspect of public life. So, despite many Chinese people being sophisticated and modern thinkers, the majority still tow the party line in most situations. Understanding this aspect of the Chinese psyche sheds light on why Chinese people can hold certain beliefs that dumbfound Westerners. 

Number 3: Learn the History of China

China has a long and colorful history, and modern Chinese people appreciate and incorporate it into many aspects of their daily lives. Chinese TV shows and movies based on ancient history are popular and are the basis for countless historical comics and novels as well. And, of course, the ideas of ancient philosophers like Confucius, Sun Tzu, and Lao Tzu are still taught in school. This shared history seeps into the way Chinese people view the world, and by learning Chinese history, you will better understand how the Chinese people think and why they do what they do. 

Number 2: Take a Western-Bound Train

Many of the most popular cities with tourists are on the east coast of the country, but if you want to get to discover the heart of China, you need to head west, preferably by train. Traveling by train exposes you to the real China, both inside and outside the train compartment. You will have time to converse with locals and see the changing landscape while getting a chance to experience the landscape and sheer scope of the country. Some cities to consider traveling to include: Guiyang, Xi’an, and Chongqing. 

Number 1: Meet the People

There is no better way to get to know a country than to engage with the people there. Luckily, most of the young people in China can speak English decently and are more than happy to try it out by having a conversation with you. So, when you are in China, put yourself out there, and speak with locals. Whether with a patron at a local bar or a staff member at your hotel, you will come away with a new perspective on the country. 

Making an effort to learn more about China will make your trip more exciting and give you a better understanding of one of the most influential countries in the world. 

 

There is plenty to see in the fantastic city of Istanbul, Turkey. There are historical sites that every visitor needs to see at least once, like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Spice Market. What about those lesser known but just as majestic places in the City of the World’s Desire? Consider five unique attractions that you need to add to your itinerary. 

1. Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern is an old underground chamber that served as an early water filtering system for Istanbul. This cistern, which can contain 80,000 cubic meters of water and is about the size of two football fields, is a one-of-a-kind historical place to see.

The cistern, which has survived centuries of battle and siege, was erected in 532 by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I to retain fresh water for the palace and neighboring structures. Take a tour to discover more about the history, especially about the famed Medusa heads at the base of one of the 336 marble columns that support the structure.

2. Ottoman Bird Palaces

People had been making birdhouses in Istanbul even before the Ottoman Empire, but they were not as extravagant. The Ottomans created sophisticated multi-level buildings with numerous ornamentation and embellishments rather than simple constructions. They resembled the type of stately home you’d expect to see royalty living in, with elaborate windows, balconies, roofs, and towers.

Today, there are only a few of these ornate bird houses left. They’ve aged and faded with time, yet some still have the amazing features that make them so appealing. You’ll find the oldest one on the side of the Büyükçekmece Bridge.

3. Tombs of the Sultans

Speaking of palaces, few are as beautiful as the tombs of the sultans of yore and their families. The tombs of Mehmed III, Selim II, Murad III, Brahim I, and Mustafa I resemble majestic palaces in honor of the memories of sultans’ past rather than what most people imagine when they think of permanent resting places for old, departed royals. You’ll find the tombs along the periphery of the Hagia Sophia. 

4. Viking Runes

While at the Hagia Sophia, make sure to see the small etching written in a runic script by a Viking. They are the Viking version of Halfdan was here. Halfdan was most likely a soldier trying to pass some time back centuries before and one of many members of the Varangian Guard who came to Constantinople looking for fortune. 

5. Miniaturk

Get unique views of Istanbul from one of the world’s largest miniature parks. It offers 1/25 scale versions of some of the most popular sites in the city, including the Obelisk of Theodosius, The Mostar Bridge, and, of course, the Hagia Eirene Church. The park covers 15 acres and will likely be one of the most interesting things you see while visiting Istanbul. 

There is plenty to see in Istanbul and lots to miss. Make sure you see some of its more unique attractions while in Turkey.