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Josh Cohen

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Surviving in China – Be Resourceful

October 20, 2014

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Surviving in China – Be Resourceful

China is a amazing country, ancient, yet breaking at the seams with all that is new and exciting, filled with tall buildings, fast pace of life, great foods, sights, smells, interesting people, and more. However, like any country, China’s approach to many of the same things we deal with, like going to a bathroom and having toilet paper, are approached differently.

I spent most of my days in China visiting factories, whether in southern or northern China, and whenever I met someone going into China for the first time and they asked me the top suggestion for surviving in China? Bring your own toilet paper!

Now, most places that people visit have most modern amenities that people need, certainly most restaurants, hotels and shopping centers in major cities, like Shanghai, but for those more adventurous or even those looking to take a day trip to visit some ancient Buddhist Temple, these tips to surviving in China can be invaluable:

Apart from the regular checklist of things that you need to keep with yourself whenever you are out in a strange country, there are several other things that you need to carry with yourself in China because they are simply not provided to you in the country as they are in the West (I always carry my own shaving kit and shampoos and bottle of water.) Apart from the passport, the VISA, your Identity verification cards, etc. there may be other things that you need.

Some things that you may be looking for might not even be available in many department stores. This is because China has a completely different culture than the American culture and there may be many things that you are used to that the Chinese people do without. Here is a list of things that you need to bring with you:

Deodorants – You might find it hard to believe but reality is that you will not find deodorants in Chinese department stores (unless you can find a Walmart). If you want a deodorant, you have to bring it with you.
Umbrellas (the best kinds are those that fold and collapse so they fit into your bag) – Although they are available in stalls, the cheap ones will rust after a week and the expensive ones might be a little too expensive for you. Bring an umbrella because you will need it in sunny days and when it rains. You cannot survive the sun in China without one (be sure to check out more of my travel tips for weather).
Travel Umbrella
Toilet Paper (or boxes of tissues) – Yes, that is right! Carry toilet paper because most (at least 90%) restrooms in China do not carry them. You might end up in a washroom and discover that it has no toilet paper and then you can end up finding yourself in a very tough situation. Always carry a roll of toilet paper or sanitary wipes with you just in case. Also, bring enough for the trip because toilet paper may not even be available in the stores (or at least most of them).
Tissues or toilet paper can easily fit into you bag
Shampoos, Conditioners and Hair Products – If you are a picky user then you better bring your own shampoos and conditioners from back home. This is because China has only a few well known brands and even in those brands the chemical composition of the shampoo or the conditioner is different than what you and your hair are used to. If you use any particular hair products then it is best that you carry them with you as well because the products you use frequently might not be available in China.
Sunscreen – Many Chinese stores do not carry a lot of sunscreens and even if they do, they do not have them in a wide variety of SPF. This is why you have to carry your own if you want to protect your skin. Chinese people have different melanin consistency in their skin, which is why their skin care products are specifically designed keeping their skin needs in mind.
travel sunscreen
Medicines – If you are on some kind of medication, it would be best for you to bring them with you because sometimes you might not find the right kind of medicine for you in China. There might be similar medications but apart from that, you might have difficulty locating the right one for you. In addition, I’ll have in another post the experiences of walking into a pharmacy in China.
Insect repellant – Take it from me, no local brand has an effect on the creepy crawlies.

Tampons – If you do not use pads and use tampons instead, you will have a hard time in China during that time of the month. Pads are widely available but tampons are not.
Shoes for Large Feet – If you have large feet then take care to bring your own pairs of shoes because finding shoes of your size might be a very difficult task for you.
Pepto Bismol – You might have some trouble adjusting to the kind of water that is available in China so it is wise to carry some pepto. This is not widely available in China so bring yours from home.
Hand Sanitizer – You might need this because of the unavailability of soap in many Chinese washrooms.
travel hand sanitizer
A small flashlight – Short electrical blackouts are common in the country so it is wise to carry a flashlight in case you are stuck in a dark room or end up getting lost in a dark unlit street. Yes! Even for surviving in China, a small flashlight can be in handy. I could tell some stories about walking down a street in Shanghai that was fully lit then turning onto a street that was dark. Having that flashlight was great!
Cash – If you are in China, you will find out that many restaurants and shops do not have a liking for credit cards so they do not accept them. Carry some cash around with you so you are not faced with any difficult situations.
Varying forms of Chinese currency

I would say those are your best bets to bring with you. But, don’t worry too much, most of these things are small and cheap, can easily fit into day bags, and you may not think you may need it, but if you do, you’ll be happy you took it! One great example of a travel kit that has never personally failed me getting through airport security or fitting into my travel bags is the Travel Smart by Conair Transparent Sundry Kit

There is so much more for surviving in China to write about on this topic alone so be sure to check my other posts.

Did you know there is a difference between Chinese Yuan and RMB?

Enjoy!

Dinner in China – Always be Prepared When Going Out

October 20, 2014

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Dinner in China – Always be Prepared When Going Out

I can remember the first time I was invited out for a dinner in China. It has been the early 2000’s, I was in my early 20’s, and I by nature, I was expecting dinner to be exactly like it was in NY! I mean, when I thought about it, I had many friends in New York, had had dinner in there homes, but nope! Dinner in China is a real adventure, a real treat, and some awesome food. I’ll be writing about many kinds of meals, dinners, meanings by dinners, proper placement of seating, who eats first, who eats last, uh-oh I don’t know how to use chopsticks, do I need to drink beer or smoke, and so so so much more.

An example of a private dinning room in a Chinese Restaurant

But, that first dinner… coming into the well lit room with a large round table in the middle with a lazy susan on top, couches on the side, a Mar Jong table on the other side and a TV playing in the front? Not exactly what I had expected, but certainly was a dinner I’ll never forget! Oh, and I do tell the whole story in another post, so be sure to check back!

These are some great tips and suggestions for your dinners. A quite FYI, not all these “rules” apply all the time, but I would follow these rules as my guidelines for all dinners I attended. But, as mentioned above, their will be plenty more!

You might feel confused as to why you need to be prepared when all you will be doing is going out to dinner in China, but you have to keep in mind that you are in an unfamiliar foreign country and you have to observe the rules, customs and traditions of the country you are traveling in. This is why it is always best to be prepared and bring all that you need so that you do not get any unpleasant surprises along the way.

As a tourist and an American citizen, I totally understand why some of the rules may seem really odd; Chinese culture and their rules are different from the culture and rules we follow in the United States of America. I have listed some of the dining etiquettes that you need to observe while having Dinner in China:

Always bring cash.

Credit cards are not always accepted in different Chinese restaurants, which is why it is best to avoid embarrassment when you are paying for a good meal. You should always have some amount of cash with you so that in case you are faced with a situation like this, you can pay the restaurant in cash. Never depend on credit cards in China because they either do not work or are not accepted in different restaurants.

If Invited to Dinner, Bring a Gift

Yes, that is necessary. If someone invites you to have dinner in China with them, it is mandatory and a sign of good manners for you to bring the host something of significance. It can be a token present such as flowers, wine or anything such as that, but it says a lot about your nature and your gratitude. This is one way of showing that you are pleased to be invited and that you are thanking the host for inviting you to dinner.

You also have to take care of basic Chinese etiquettes when you are having dinner in China.

You have to be mindful of things that they consider important so that you do not seem rude to them. Here is a checklist so that you can be on your best behavior when you are dining with your Chinese friends.

While it is normally considered rude to put your elbows up on the table whilst eating, in China it is considered perfectly normal.
Never be late for a meal.
Never sit in any random place, instead wait for the host to assign you a seat.
Let the older people eat first as it is a sign of respect to them.
You should not only refill your own bowl with rice but also proceed to refill other’s plate whilst asking them if they need refills. Elders like to be offered refills by the younger people on the table.
Close your mouth and swallow soundlessly so you seem more civilized. Chinese people have no patience for ill-mannered people on the table.
Do not hold your chopsticks in such a manner in which your index finger or your middle finger points toward the guests as this can be misconstrued as something obscene or offensive.
Do not spear your food with chopsticks under any circumstances.

I know this seems like a lot for dinner in China, but don’t worry or sweat even an ounce because I have tons more tips to offer so you don’t feel lost for a millisecond!

Plus, these are super quick tips to pick up, they’re often shown to you when you arrive, and most Chinese guests will not take offense if anything above is missed. Chinese are very happy to show why. But, having Dinner in China is filled with more subtleties, and each one of them is like adding a point onto a checklist Chinese keep in there minds.

But! Most important of all! Have fun! The food is fantastic, many sorts of varieties and most does not look like what we have back in America.

Be sure to check back for more posts. Is it true tea is served all over the country? Well…. Or, rice is the staple food, right? Not really… And why is chicken served first and fish last? Or one of my favorites, did he REALLY just eat the whole fish??? Why? And, do I really need to eat that???

Oh, and why do locals tap two fingers when tea is being poured?

Enjoy!

Staying in Tel Aviv – The Insiders Guide

October 19, 2014

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Staying in Tel Aviv – The Insiders Guide

Israel gives you everything you need on a holiday – there’s history in Jerusalem, adventure at the Negev desert, and great food and a heaving nightlife in Tel Aviv. You may not know this, and thankfully, most tourists don’t, but Tel Aviv feels like it’s on a year-long holiday. Our life here is casual – no one owns a business suit, and our cafes are always alive. Spend a few days in the city, and you will know why we Israelis think it is the greatest city on earth.

I remember the first time I came here and was so impressed by what locals call (Mini New York City (and I’m originally from NY)). Tall buildings, tons of places to have fun, gorgeous beaches, and I thought to myself, “Wow! The sites here are amazing given that 100 years ago nothing was here by sand, the smell are an awesome mix of the Mediterranean Sea and sweet cookings from the town, and the sights are filled with beach goers and front side hotels. I LOVE coming into this town from Jerusalem (from the South East) and seeing the building continue to grow from the distance, but… knowing that right on the other side of those beaches, a small piece of heaven exists. Oh man… some great memories I can NOT wait to share with you…

Staying in Tel Aviv is endless – from easy-going beachside hotels to the exotic hotels in the Yemenite Quarter and the fashionable hotels on Rothschild Blvd, Tel Aviv spoils you for choice. But here’s an insider guide to what really stands out.

Hostels

Most backpackers around the world are resigned to staying in hostels that are identical to one another and have no redeeming quality at all. Not so in Tel Aviv. Our Old Jaffa Hostel used to be an old Turkish home that was lovingly restored and turned into an amazing hostel by an Israeli couple. This was incredible. As soon as you walk in the old rustic front door, you smell the sweetest scene of coffee… Yes! Coffee… But Turkish coffee has a soft aroma to it that is not rough on the nostrils, so even though not a fan of coffee… no worries!

The rooms and dorms here have a bespoke old-world feel and the added edge is definitely the roof garden that provides a beautiful view of the Mediterranean Sea.

Hayarkon 48 Is an exciting place to stay, feeling alive with life and fun. Out of all the hostels I’ve been, this easily takes the cake as being the most accommodating and easiest places to feel comfortable! Best known for its excellent showers, spacious kitchen and large community areas where people from different countries can interact without any curfew.

The rooms are well-appointed and there is a pool table thrown in for good measure. Its location is enviable – a short walk away is Allenby Street – Tel Aviv’s party central and there are loads of 24-hour bakeries and kiosks around for those midnight emergencies!

Staying in Tel Aviv – Hotels

The Brown TLV Urban hotel has 4-star amenities but not 4-star rates. I heavily recommend the hotel to those seeking a luxurious stay near the beach and the Great Synagogue, because its amenities are excellent and the location is enviable. The rooftop sundeck and two outdoor bars sell the hotel to most visitors, but if you are looking for a little extra, try their well-stocked library or the hydro-massage showers.

Crown Plaza Tel Aviv City Center hotel is the last word in luxury. Close to the cultural hub of Tel Aviv, the hotel has a pulsating energy that is difficult to compare. With supervised childcare facilities, the hotel lets you get out on your own, and get back from a day’s sightseeing to spa tubs and indoor pools as well as well-stocked minibars. Why do I recommend it? Because it lets you live like a king without emptying your treasury!

Staying in Tel Aviv – B&Bs

Trieste Boutique Concept Suites Neve Tzedek is close to the Carmel Market, Hatachana Compund, Shalom Meir Tower, as well as the Nachum Gutman Museum of Art. So it gives you all the culture/history fix you may want, while also offering perhaps the best jetted bathtubs in all Tel Aviv. The kitchenettes are excellent and the view from the terrace is to die for! Book early, because it sells out fast!

What’s so cool about Staying in Tel Aviv, is although the city can feel big there is something great, local, and fun, around nearly every corner.

Feel free to walk along the beaches and never worry of going hungry with awesome beach side bars and cafe’s, and yes, when you go and see those signs saying “No Dogs” don’t be dismayed when you see dogs running up and down on the sand.

I can’t wait to go back. Oh, and did you know there’s actually a train from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem?

Englands National Parks – Your Guide to Discover

October 19, 2014

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Englands National Parks – Your Guide

For such a small country, England has a huge natural variety!

Englands National Parks by no means match the scale of those found in the United States, but they are all unique and offer a great insight into England’s natural beauty. Let’s set a little time aside to take a look at three of them.

Dartmoor

Dartmoor is truly beautiful. Its dramatic and somewhat stark looking landscape is made up of exposed granite on top of the hills. The striking and really quite harsh surroundings give Dartmoor a threatening quality and it is easy to see why it has a reputation of being a mystical place. There are a number of ghost stories set on the moors and visitors can see all of the places referenced around Dartmoor.

It can be a great activity for people of all ages to read out the myths and legends whilst stood on the sites where they take place, to really get a sense of the mystery of the moors. There are many landmarks which you can visit on the moors, including Bowerman’s Nose, Jay’s Grave and the Stone Crosses. But my absolute favorite is the legend of Childe’s Tomb.

The cross which marks Childe’s tomb was allegedly constructed to mark the burial site of Childe the Hunter. The legend states that Childe was out hunting on the moor when a storm hit. The storm was wild and raging and Childe lost sight of the group he was hunting with. There was no shelter at all out on the bleak and dramatic moor, so the only protection he had was his horse. He hid behind the horse but the wind was howling from all directions and blowing the harsh weather against him.

He eventually killed his horse, tore out its insides and then crawled inside the body for shelter. He could feel himself slipping away, and just before he froze to death he wrote a letter saying that whoever found his body and buried him in their church would inherit all of his land and money.

The body was found by a group of monks who began to carry it back to Tavistock Abbey. On their way back they heard that a group of people were planning to ambush them to steal the body and claim the inheritance.

They decided to take a detour and build their own bridge to return and safely bury Childe in the grounds of the abbey and inherit his Plymstock estate. Childe’s tomb can still be seen and visited today and you get a real idea of how terrifying it would be to be trapped on the moor in a raging storm.

North York Moors

Continuing on our traverse of Englands National Parks, the North York Moors are a huge expanse of heather moorland. They are much more colorful than Dartmoor and give a more upbeat view of the British countryside. One of the best things about the North York Moors is the North Yorkshire Moors Steam Railway which travels from Pickering to Whitby.

For kids and train enthusiasts alike the steam train can be a really fun day out. You get a real sense of what train travel would have been like before electric and diesel engines came about and it is also a fantastic way to see the beautiful scenery in all weathers.

The steam railway offers a more comfortable view of the moors than walking or cycling. For the more adventurous among you it is possible to rent bikes and cycle along the various trails and become part of the stunning landscape.

Lake District

The Lake District is perhaps the most famous of Englands National Parks.

It is the home of England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, as well as its deepest lake, Wastwater. The Lake District is the most populated of Englands National Parks; there are loads of quintessential English villages where you can stay in traditional Bed & Breakfasts and really immerse yourself in English culture.

If you are looking for a truly memorable experience to add to your holiday, the Lake District is a great place to try out a new adventure sport, or practice an old favorite. Kids and adults alike can delight in raft building, gorge walking, mountain biking, canoeing, archery, scrambling and kayaking to name just a few!

So whether you are looking for a quiet countryside retreat, an action-packed adventure holiday or just an opportunity to explore the diversity of England’s stunning natural beauty, Englands national parks could be exactly what you are looking for. They are well worth a visit, whatever the nature of your trip. The quaint country villages make for cozy, romantic getaways and the opportunity for adventure allows for exciting family vacations.

And, just check out that featured images. Yup! That’s an aqueduct, and not just any aqueduct, but one built from the Romans themselves!

Be sure to check out more entries about that very aqueduct and more about Englands National Parks!

Venetian Water Bus – Perfect for Getting Around the City

October 18, 2014

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Venetian Water Bus – Perfect for Getting Around the City

In the historic center of Venice, water buses are a unique and well-used means of transportation. Since travel is by water, you won’t be surrounded by tour buses, cars and ground taxis, as is the case in many tourist meccas.

Water buses travel to various points in town and even to some of the 100 outlying islands. The fleet includes 150 boats, with routes that extend into even the farthest Venetian Lagoon corners.

Vaporetto and Motoscafo on the Grand Canal

Although you could walk to most points of interest in Venice, taking Venetian Water Bus is a unique mode of travel that will enthrall you. They are especially of value if you are staying on one of the islands of Venice.

Visiting the islands of the local lagoon, you may watch glassmaking on the island of Murano. Venetian Water Bus provide a pleasant Grand Canal cruise of nearly an hour. If you have been walking all day, sightseeing, the water buses will show you through elegant canals and back to your hotel.

What You Should Know

Riding a motonave, motoscafo or vaporetto, the local water buses in the city of Venice, is no more complicated than taking city buses or subways in any town.

Waterbus stops can be found on maps of Venice, and you will no doubt see signs pointing them out if you do some sightseeing on land. The floating platforms are yellow and white, and quite easily recognized. Make sure you are on a landing for the line you wish to take. There may be multiple platforms at larger stops.

Purchase a Pass or Ticket

You may purchase 12-hour to one week Tourist Travel Cards of Venetian Water Bus tickets at any local ticket booth. Some large stops also have ticket machines. There is also the tourist version of the city pass for Venezia Unica, which will gain you admittance to city museums and public restrooms.

The Streets and Alleys of Venice

Venice is at its heart a maze of narrow, twisting streets and blind alleys. On the Venetian Water Bus, you will enjoy the relaxation of a trip to San Marco, on the Grand Canal. Grand old homes and Gothic palaces dot the Grand Canal, and, unless you enjoy walking, viewing them from a water bus will be much more relaxing.

Gondolas are used mainly for the experience in Venice. They will give you a romantic ride, but if you want to go somewhere, you’ll need a water bus. Things move slowly in Venice, and you may find that you enjoy the pace. Realistically, enjoying the sights and getting from one point to another is an experience to savor. As you gaze at the sights, you won’t mind the slow speed.

Vaporetto are your best choice for longer trips in Venice, and will carry you to the islands in the area. Motoscafu are protected from rain and wind, and they travel outside the more sheltered Grand Canal, St. Mark’s Basin and Guidecca Canal. Single-deck motonave motorships travel the Venetian Lagoon. Double deck motonave will take you to the Lido, and they operate near the Piazza San Marco.

Riding water buses is unlike riding city buses. You will enjoy the views of the wondrous sights of Venice, from a seat on a spacious water bus. It’s something you simply need to experience to believe.

http://www.comune.venezia.it/flex/cm/pages/ServeBLOB.php/L/EN/IDPagina/1

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre – Melting Pot of Christianity

October 18, 2014

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The Church of the Holy Sepulchre: A Glimpse into the Melting Pot of Christianity

No city but Jerusalem can claim to hold as much importance to Jews, Christians and Muslims in almost equal measure. So when you are here, explore all the four quarters of the city to get a feel of the complex culture of this place. What better place to start my foray into the Christian quarter in the northwestern corner of the city than the Church of the Holy Sepulchre that is at its heart!

You get to the church complex from the Souk el Dabbagha. The structure is not impressive, given the fact that it had fallen in and out of Christian hands several times in the history, and had been built and rebuilt in bits and pieces. But even a casual visitor is transported to another world on stepping into the church. You don’t have to be a pilgrim to be awed by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Interestingly, the Greek orthodox, the Catholic and the Armenian churches that own the different parts of the The Church of the Holy Sepulchre do not control its entrance.

Main entrance to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem — Gathering of visitors and pilgrims at entrance

They reportedly come to blows ever so frequently over small matters. No wonder Sultan Saladin entrusted the keys to the custody of a Muslim in 1192, and they remain with the Joudeh Al-Goudia family still. The warring Christian factions cannot agree on even the slightest change in the arrangements too. A mute witness to this status quo is the ‘immovable ladder’ on a parapet visible from the courtyard. It has been perching against a window for the last two centuries at least.

The smell of incense and melting wax greets you as you follow several people carrying wooden crosses while winding their way through the church, stopping briefly at different sites of interest. They are obviously undertaking a pilgrimage along the miniature Via Dolorosa, emulating the last walk of Jesus to the place of his death. On the way you pass different Stations of the Cross including the Prison of Jesus, the Chapel of the Nailing to the Cross, and the Chapel of Crucifixion.

The Golgotha, which means ‘the place of skulls’ where Jesus was crucified, lies under the altar of a Greek church, with a silver disc marking the spot. The Stone of Unction has many pilgrims kissing and kneeling by it, with the wall behind it depicting the preparation of Jesus for burial.

Dome of Holy Sepulchre Church — Large Rotunda above the cave where Jesus was Buried

As you know, the story doesn’t end there. Within the complex you come to the large rotunda containing the rock-cut tomb of Jesus, now enclosed in a stone-clad structure called Aedicule. A skylight in the dome lights up this holiest of holy places of the Christians from where Jesus had resurrected. There are a few other chapels to visit, for example, the Chapel of the Angel and then another one deep underground where Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine discovered Jesus’ cross.

at the Church of the Holy sepulchre - Jerusalem — Believed burial site of Jesus

It is not exactly easy to imagine how all these places of interest came to lie under the same roof. But, when you emerge at the other end, with or without the wooden cross, you get the feeling that you have just walked through a poignant story.

There is so much more to see, learn, hear, feel, smell, understand, and explore within The Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Make sure to stick around for great self walking tours, what it is like upon first entering The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and that ladder mentioned earlier.. could it really have been Jacob’s ladder?

Oh, and make sure to check back soon for the coolest and almost “secret” like way into the The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the rooftops!

Place at Dome on the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem — Secret? Rooftop Entrance to The Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Plus! Just how many ways are there to reach The Church of the Holy Sepulchre? Want to know the fastest? The most colorful? Best stops along the way for food and gifts? Check back real soon!

Florence Attractions – Best on Limited Time

October 17, 2014

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Florence Attractions The ‘Must-See’ if You’re Limited for Time

It’s quite a shame, if you only have a limited amount of time to spend in Florence. It is a city full of impressive and historically important attractions and sights. From churches to museums and significant squares, you’ll find this Tuscan town elegant and endearing.

The Florence Attractions You Must See:

Most of the top tourist Florence attractions are in the central historic district. There is simply not as much to see in the outskirts of town. You can access the most interesting sites from the center of town.

Piazza della Signoria

This is the most well-known square in Florence. It has much historic value and features an open-air exhibit of sculpture. The Piazza della Signoria is the political center of Florence, and has been so since the middle ages. Within the square, you will find the medieval Palazzo Vecchio, the town hall.

Cattedrale de Santa Maria del Fiore

A visit to Florence is not complete without a visit to the Cattedrale de Santa Maria del Fiore. This gothic duomo was started before 1300 and can seat 20,000 people. The marble exterior shows interesting statues and doors. Brunelleschi’s Dome inside is a true masterpiece.

Palazzo Vecchio

This is the civil power symbol for Florence. The construction rests atop an ancient Roman theater from the Florencia colony. The ruins viewable in the underground level are awe-inspiring.

The Bell Tower of Piazza del Duomo

The bell tower, known locally as the Campanile, was originally designed by Giotto di Bondone, an Italian architect and artist. He contributed greatly to the Italian Renaissance. He was respected as a sovereign painter. Climbing over 400 steps to the top, you will experience wondrous views of the city and its surroundings.

The Baptistery of Saint John the Baptist

Built in the 11^th century, the Baptistery is one of the oldest buildings in Florence, and highly recommended to see as a Florence Attractions. It features three reproductions of bronze doors now housed in the Duomo Museum. The white and green marble creates a truly lovely building. The inside is home to a marble zodiac pavement and intricate mosaics.

The Accademia Gallery and Uffizi Museum

These are the most often visited of Florence’s museums. The interesting and famous art works within the Accademia Gallery must indeed be some of Michelangelo’s finest works. The most famous work of art here is David, the magnificent marble statue that almost everyone knows on sight.

The Basilica of San Miniato al Monte

The Basilica is a fine example of the architecture of Tuscan Romanesque work. It is found outside of the city of Florence on a monte (hill). The views of Florence from this vantage point are truly breathtaking.

Boboli Garden

The Boboli Garden is one of the most elegant and largest of the Italian gardens. It has been extended through the years, with several periods of restructuring and enlargement. The earlier works were close to the palace, and although drawn by Niccolò Tribolo, the actual work on these lush gardens would be completed after his death.

Ponte Vecchio

This old bridge was once the only one across Florence’s River Arno. In 1345, it was rebuilt following a flood. In World War II, the Germans did not destroy this bridge, although they did so to all other bridges over the River Arno. Rather, the Germans chose to block bridge access by laying waste to the buildings located on either side.

Spending even a short time seeing Florence attractions will underscore your belief in the beauty of Italy. I personally adore the city of Florence and Florence Attractions and it is so easy to feel lost and at home at the same time in this amazing city. Be sure to check back for some wild stories of late night runs for the worlds (arguably) gelato, getting to the front of the line to see David, and personal journeys in and around the city.

It is truly a city not to be missed.

http://www.museumsinflorence.com/musei/Palazzo_vecchio.html

The English Pub

October 17, 2014

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The English Pub Guide

When it comes to the The English pub, I have my fair share of stories to tell. One of the first things a tourist should learn in my experience is how the pub scene works. The first time I wandered into a country the English pub, I was expecting a cold beer, cheers in an English accent, and some friendly conversation, though it didn’t quite turn out that way.

The Infamous Bitter Service

When you head into an English pub, never order a beer unless you like being laughed at. People refer to their beer with specifics, such as a bitter. Bitter is a distinctively popular British beer, though it comes in many different types now, it’s a brownish red ale, strongly flavored with hops. Another thing that might surprise you is that a bitter is served at room temperature and they wouldn’t have it any other way.

I learned this rule the hard way. Hopefully my blog will make a difference for you. The Brits posses a sadistic sense of humor, they will sit and laugh at the poor oblivious tourists who don’t know that there is no concept of service in the pubs. Whether you want food or beer, you’ll have to go to the bar to get some service.

Another thing, the bars over there don’t keep tabs for you, so you’ll have to pay for the drinks and food upfront.

It may seem a little weird for the first time visitors, but this is their culture and I for one love learning new culture.

Different Kinds of English Pubs

In England there are several different kinds of pubs and they all attract different kinds of crowds.

The English pubs in the city centers attract a diverse group of people, usually those working in the area. These are filled usually during lunchtime and after work hours when coworkers and friends get together to unwind over a warm bitter.
Then there are the themed pubs, mostly in the city. These could be anything from a jazz pub, comedy pub, and gay pubs, etc.
One of my favorites, the country pubs is a piece of their cultural heritage. Though it may not look the same from the inside.
Then there are the local pubs and since they are pretty local, they aren’t quite welcoming especially to visitors.
Another one of my favorites is the freehouse. Since most of the pubs are licensed through breweries, they are not allowed to sell drinks from their competitors. Freehouses are independent pubs which serve different varieties of beers. They are the best place for a visitor in the hope to try out different local drinks.

I hope this blog post gave you enough information to be able to enjoy the english pub scene in the country without any worries. If you are out visiting England, absorb as much of the culture as you can, because you will definitely miss it once you are home. Drink up, enjoy, savor it!

Cheers.

http://travel.michelin.com/web/destination/Great_Britain-London/news-The_English_pub_two_thousand_years_of_history

Israel Negev Desert: Set My Inner Adventurer Free

October 17, 2014

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Israel Negev Desert: The Story of How I Set My Inner Adventurer Free

Israel Negev desert is more than just rolling dunes of sand. Look closely between the rocks of the wadis (valleys), and you will find water, maybe even wine. That alone would have made Negev my number one destination, because, in Israel, wine is your all-important beverage – from the blessings read over it under the chupah (wedding canopy) to farewells where we say l’chaim and wish each other well over a shot glass of schnapps. Ask any hot-blooded Israeli man like me and you’ll know, the wines of the Negev vineyards are the best there are!

But the magic of the Israel Negev desert does not stop at its wine route. It is enchanting, not just to those looking for a bit of history, but to those like me – people who travel for the sake of adrenaline – to go seeking the limits of our inner adventurer.

And Israel Negev Desert offers adventure in plenty. I decided to take a jeep ride through the fascinating terrain with a group of European tourists.

Hikers in Negev desert. — Trekking through the Negev

There was the option of an open-top jeep (which I passed, because it would be way too uncomfortable to tour a desert without any shade on my head), an air-conditioned jeep (great, but it’s like your own world, and if I am taking a desert trail, I might as well hear and smell it, right?) and a covered jeep, which I took.

Usually the drivers in these jeeps are passionate about the desert that earns them their bread, and talk incessantly about it. It helps to have a translator with you because while I understood his Hebrew, the rest of the party didn’t. Of course, the terrain more than made up for that – and this is a route for bravehearts because the desert is unforgiving, relentless in its dips and turns, and steep where you wouldn’t expect it to be.

Memorial Cemetery of the founder of Israel, David Ben Gurion and his wife Poline, at edge of Negev

If you are up for it, you can also take a cycling trip through the desert. This kind of desert touring is only for those who can take the stress of biking through the bleak desert landscape, stopping only by the magnificent Ramon crater, or in a Bedouin camp for meals or at Mt. Boker for panoramic views of the desert.

Having pushed my stamina to the limit hiking through the breathtaking Ramon crater – one of the many makhteshim (erosion craters) in the area, I chose what I thought was a more relaxed activity – sand surfing. Dror Bamidbar offers to teach you to navigate the sand on surfboards and sleds and wraps up the session with some desert coffee served on mats.

When you are done for the day, Negev still offers you something for the night. My guide gave me a few choices. I could go picking fruits at a vineyard at night, or go to the Mitzpeh Ramon jazz club set in the makhteshim. There was also the summer concert featuring Persian and electronic music at the Ezuz village.

Summer in the Israel Negev Desert again next year? Of course!

http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/vie/desert.html

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