Wanderlust Tips Team, Author at WANDERLUST TIPS • Page 90 of 195

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Top destinations for your escape

Top destinations for your first post-lockdown escape

Travel enthusiasts are likely more eager than ever to get out on the open road. The excitement that comes with planning a trip, packing a suitcase and experiencing a destination that you have not been able to visit because of the global coronavirus pandemic. For a trip full of fun, novelty experiences and safety when it is time to travel again, Wanderlust Tips has unveiled a list of the best destinations for your post-lockdown escape.

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NEW ZEALAND

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Top destinations for your first post-lockdown escape

New Zealand has always been a favoured holiday destination amongst travellers, hence, it should be at the top of your post-lockdown bucket list when travel resumes. With its staggering natural landscapes, crystal-clear skies, shady roads and peaceful wildlife, this is truly a place where you can immerse yourself in nature and marvel at a vast array of beguiling historical structures. Travelling to New Zealand post-lockdown, visitors will be able to experience and explore an amazing variety of thrilling outdoor activities.

For instance, get the most out of your adventure in the jungles and forests; travel through mountains, hills, rivers and streams; reward yourself with colourful floral gardens; soak up the sun and enjoy the aquamarine seawaters whilst marvelling at the coral reefs. With its gentle nature, peaceful pace of life, friendly locals, as well as its quick and effective reaction to the Covid-19 crisis, it is no surprise that New Zealand is being looked on as a safe haven for travellers who are dreaming of their first post-lockdown escape.

Things to do in New Zealand:

Immerse yourself in the dramatic natural scenery of Milford Sound
Get the most out of buzzing around Auckland
Wander around charming Queenstown
Take a boat tour along the Avon River in Christchurch
Catch sight of the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges and the Pacific Ocean in Kaikoura
Enjoy the crystalline sea, soft sand and golden sunshine on the islands

GREECE

When Greece springs to mind, many people have fallen head over heels with its mysterious yet fantastic beauty, ancient and modern architecture, as well as legendary history. As one of the first European countries to reopen after the coronavirus lockdown, Greece has a countless number of gorgeous popular sites that will definitely catch your attention. Take a summer vacation to this fascinating country, then enjoy the peaceful vibes and safe atmosphere.

Located in the southern part of Balkan Peninsula, Greece is known as the cradle of human civilisation, making it an endless inspiration for mythological stories. The ancient Greeks created thriving and flourishing culture many years ago, making it the most developed civilisation in the world. An incredible array of palaces, temples and sanctuaries, which were constructed and have been carefully preserved, are a shining example of ancient Greek culture. Additionally, Greece intrigues travellers with its magnificent natural landscapes; exquisite waters and towering cliffs, making it a truly distinctive cultural destination. Aside from its magical sacred beauty, a spectrum of opulent hotels and restaurants add a boldness and sparkling extravagance to Greece.

Things to do in Greece:

Go back in time and appreciate the mythical beauty of Athens
Santorini impresses with its deep azure and white fairy-tale architecture
Dive into the alluring marvel of Mykonos
Discover the ancient ruins in Rhodes
Explore the Meteora Monasteries suspended on the ragged cliffs
Enjoy the lesser-travelled city of Thessaloniki

AUSTRIA

An awe-inspiring European country, Austria intrigues many people with its breathtaking nature and gentle pace of life. A far cry from the flamboyance of France, the striking glamour of Switzerland and the rustic romance of Italy, Austria conjures a sense of gentleness and elegance that make travellers fall head over heels in love. After the turmoil-filled coronavirus pandemic full of bad news, the idyllic beauty of Austria is akin to a salvation to make your first post-lockdown escape possible. Allow for spontaneity with your Austria itinerary because each destination boasts a one-of-a-kind beauty that is a stunning blend of nature and people.

Expect fun-filled moments whilst wandering through eclectic cities, dining at local restaurants or rummaging through trinkets at the shops. Additionally, cast your eyes over the peaceful river and the majestic Alps in the distance and feel a sense of peace and tranquillity. Your heart will skip a beat when meandering through rolling forested hills, dotted with red roofs and green trees gently swaying in the breeze. In addition to its marvellous nature, Austria is home to an amazing variety of cultural and historical treasures enraptured in daily life.

Things to do in Austria:

Vienna is an excellent blend of ancient and state-of-the-art beauty
Salzburg is the homeland of Mozart’s genius
Discover the picturesque city of Innsbruck
Try out a range of water activities around Lake Constance
Hallstatt is the most beautiful lakeside village in the world
Hochosterwitz Castle is famous for its Instagrammable fairy-tale landscapes

JAPAN

Asia is home to an amazing variety of popular destinations and Japan is often at the top of the list, especially as travel restrictions are being eased. Japan intrigues a lot of travellers with its unique combination of oriental culture, sensational modernity, wealth and prosperity. Over time, Japan has captivated people with its outlandish uniqueness, colourful seasonal nature and exhilarating local lifestyle. If you are planning a trip to Japan post-lockdown, it will be a fantastic idea. Japan offers so many possibilities for your travel experience at any time of the year.

This Asian country is stunningly picture-postcard all year round, from spring, summer, autumn to winter. Spring is full of blossoming sakura, summer glitters with the bright yellow sunlight, roads and streets are blanketed with snow on wintry days and autumn captivates people with yellow and crimson leaves. Everything in Japan is so spellbinding that anyone feels nostalgic when waving goodbye. As the time is right, Japan is really an affordable escape to satisfy your cosmopolitan feel.

Things to do in Japan:

Go back in time and visit the ancient capital of Kyoto
Visit the old temples and structures in Nara
Spoil yourself with a relaxing vacation in Hakone
Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Osaka
Treat yourself to Nagasaki, a bustling coastal city

THAILAND

Despite the strong outbreak of Covid-19, Thailand is the top tourist destination, where both domestic and foreign travellers are hoping to head. This epic country is a frequently-visited destination amongst travellers thanks to its magical architecture and distinctive culture. You will be spoilt for choice with a vast array of exhilarating experiences. For instance, stroll along the bustling dynamic roads, enjoy fantastic food, go shopping at the local markets or simply get lost in an incredible maze of alleyways between beautiful houses and welcoming locals.

Aside from its hectic lifestyle, Thailand exudes a gentle ambience and mesmerising tranquillity. Get the most out of serenity around the ancient sacred temples, look out over the lush green forests from a hilltop, marvel at a charming river embracing the small city, stroll around architectural structures or reward yourself with an unforgettable souvenir. Thailand offers an amazing variety of possibilities at this challenging time that allow you to enjoy joyful experiences whilst ensuring your safety. Travelling to Thailand post-lockdown will bring you a whole host of remarkable and inspirational experiences.

Things to do in Thailand:

If you are passionate about shopping and eating, Bangkok is a must
Appreciate the serenity and tranquillity in Chiang Mai
Spend your time lazing on the beautiful beaches in Koh Samui
Marvel at the crystal-clear seawaters and uniquely-shaped cliffs
Get lost in Pai, a hidden paradise for backpackers

NORWAY

There is quite a close resemblance between Nordic countries due to their natural landscapes. However, if you take time to observe and learn, you can easily discover many interesting differences between them. As a safe destination after the Covid-19 pandemic, Norway will allow you to embark on a fantastic journey. Only when you arrive in Norway, will you wholly appreciate its unrivalled nature. Norwegian fjords are world-famous for their striking diversity of lakes and bays.

In particular, there is an extraordinary phenomenon in Norway that has always made a lasting impression on every traveller, it is that the sun never sets for a full of 20 days. Therefore, Norway is commonly called “the land of midnight sun”. If you are looking for somewhere peaceful and quiet, Norway is also an ideal place as it has a total population of 5 million people; meanwhile, its area ranks the 61^st in the world. With its unbeatable climate, fascinating nature and eclectic pace of life, Norway is a country worth travelling to post-lockdown. Appreciate its beauty and you will realise how stunning and precious our planet truly is.

Things to do in Norway:

Pay a visit to Oslo and appreciate its effulgent development
Venture into the wooden houses facing the harbour in Bergen
The Lærdal tunnel is the world’s longest road tunnel at an incredible length of 24.51km
Geirangerfjord is known for its spectacular cliffs and magnificent waterfalls
The Lofoten Islands fascinate people with their majestic peaks and sparkling open sea

BHUTAN

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of urban life and retreat to a paradise of joy and happiness, Bhutan is a must to add to your bucket list. If you ask anyone who has ever travelled to this country, they can talk about their experiences for hours because Bhutan is home to breathtaking nature, ancient spiritual architecture and kind-hearted people. Located between China and India, Bhutan will give visitors the chance to explore and experience the most enriching cultures in Asia. Completely separate from the outside world, this South Asian country is isolated by hills and highlands, making it an appealing post-lockdown destination amongst travellers.

An interesting fact that you need to know about Bhutan is that it measures prosperity by gauging its citizens’ happiness levels, not the GDP. In Bhutan, you will have the opportunity to indulge in the refreshing ambience, enriching spirituality and strong Buddhist beliefs as well as experiencing the daily life of the happiest people in the world. There are no social evils or the bad we often see every day, Bhutan is simply created by the best things in the world. This magnificently beautiful country is the perfect holiday destination whenever you want to escape from life’s problems and lose yourself in the most precious and idyllic culture.

Things to do in Bhutan:

Paro Taktsang Monastery perched precariously and hugging the cliff side
Trongsa is the ancestral home of the Bhutanese kings
Chorten Kora is the oldest Buddhist architecture
Learn about the wide life at Jigme Dorji National Park
Visit Thimphu, the bustling capital of Bhutan

Wanderlust Tips

Fun facts you may not know about San Francisco, California

Do you know any fun facts about San Francisco that most people don’t? Here are 10 surprising things you may not know about the city by the Bay in California.

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Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Fun facts you may not know about San Francisco, California

1. Before it was renamed to San Francisco in 1846, this small city was originally called Yerba Buena that means “Good Herb” in Spanish. While this referred to a fragrant plant that grew native to the shoreline, some might say it could apply to other herbs.

2. The San Francisco International Airport is supported by 267 columns that each rest on a steel ball bearing, allowing the ground to move 20 inches in any direction during an earthquake.

3. The average depth of the San Francisco Bay is only as deep as a swimming pool at approximately 12–15 feet deep. Large ships in the bay must follow deep underwater channels that are maintained by frequent dredging.

4. The city was built on more than 50 hills. Many believe it only has 7 or 9 hills, but there are more than 50 named hills. Some of the most well-known are Russian Hill, Nob Hill, Telegraph and Twin Peaks.

5. Alcatraz was the only federal prison that provided hot showers. It prevented the prisoners from acclimating to the cold temperatures of the San Francisco Bay if they tried to escape.

6. Dogs outnumber children in the city by the Bay. Walking around the streets, it is no surprise that San Franciscans are big fans of dogs with luxury dog hotels, rooftop dog cocktail parties and a pet cemetery. There are an estimated 120,000 dogs in SF and District 8 has the most dense dog population while there are from 108,000 to 113,000 children.

7. The fog in San Francisco is so famous that locals gave it a name – Karl and a Twitter account. Fog can be seen in San Francisco Bay pretty dependably starting in June and lasting through August.

8. SF is home to the largest competition of American wines in the world. The annual Chronicle Wine Competition is held every February.

9. The Golden Gate Bridge is the best-known symbol of SF and has been a scene for at least 100 movies. The city is home to more than 50 film festivals each year such as the Greek Film Festival, the American Indian Film Festival…

10. You are not allowed to bury your dead within the city limits. Because of this restriction, there are only two cemeteries that remain in the city, including San Francisco National Cemetery and San Francisco Mission Cemetery.

Wanderlust Tips

Bingsu: An icy treat to cool off in the summer heat

The sweltering summer heat has arrived in full force, leaving people exhausted, sweaty and uncomfortable, even the healthiest people. During those summer days, a cool, sweet and refreshing treat may offer some relief. Bingsu is a popular Korean treat to enjoy when it is burning hot outside.

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WHAT MAKES BINGSU IMPRESSIVE?

Bingsu or Patbingsu is a traditional Korean dessert which is rich in both flavour, colour and style. There is a lot of innovative variations of Bingsu. Surprisingly, the earliest form of Bingsu existed during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910) and was originally a creative version of traditional red bean porridge made to counteract the sweltering summer heat. There was no refrigerator or ice cream at that time, so a cool combination of crushed ice and red beans created the perfect summer dish and became widely popular amongst street vendors.

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Bingsu: An icy treat to cool off in the summer heat

Over time, Bingsu has become a famous Korean sweetened dish. There is an amazing variety of ice shavings with fantastic flavours and Instagram-worthy presentation. Interestingly, there is no common recipe for this refreshing dessert. Compared to other sweet dishes, Bingsu is more complicated as it is made of shaved ice, condensed milk, syrup and various different toppings including chopped fruits, biscuits, sweets, jellies and chewy bubbles. These variations and customisations have made a big difference to Bingsu and its uniqueness amongst other global dishes. This tasty Korean dessert has gradually gained popularity in many neighbouring countries such as Taiwan, Thailand and China with their own recipes.

As summer rolls around the corner, there is nothing more wonderful than eating a big bowl of Bingsu to stave off the heat. On first seeing this unique Korean treat, you will notice the snow-like mounds of decorative Bingsu with red, yellow, blue, pink or purple and the somewhat spellbinding swirls. Each colour has its own flavour. Korean shaved ice is perfectly smooth with a sweet milky flavour that immediately melts in your mouth.

After a bowl of ice shavings, you will feel refreshed thanks to a delicious mélange of assorted toppings. Due to a wide range of easy-to-find local ingredients and the talented chef’s creations, Bingsu has truly become a summer delight. In particular, people often think that this sweet dish has no health benefits, but Bingsu is packed with fruits like melon, mangoes, strawberries and kiwi which contain vitamins and essential nutrients.

AN EXTRAORDINARY VARIETY OF ICE SHAVINGS

This Korean treat intrigues foodies with its customisation and innovative recipes. With an abundant combination of fascinating ingredients, the dish has become more and more popular, making it a signature treat during summer. If you are looking for a new culinary experience while simultaneously staying cool, check out these most-favoured Bingsu flavours.

AN ICY TREAT OF CLASSIC KOREAN BINGSU

If you want to fully appreciate the authentic taste of traditional ice shavings, then red-bean shaved ice will satisfy your gourmet needs. According to its original style, Bingsu is simply made of shaved ice topped with sweetened red bean porridge and condensed milk to make a truly delectable dish. From its humble beginnings, Bingsu has been embellished by adding misutgaru (roasted rice and grain powder) or chewy rice cake pieces. Despite such flavourful deliciousness, red-bean shaved ice has always been the preferred Bingsu flavour amongst Korean people.

FRESH FRUIT BINGSU FOR THE SUMMER DAYS

The refreshing flavour and nutritious value of fruit make a favourable summertime food. A cup of icy fruit bingsu will definitely tantalise your tastebuds. There are many different fruit options with a cup of ice shavings such as mango, melon, kiwi and strawberry, depending on your preference. The sweet dessert not only helps to cool you down but also provides a lot of vitamins. The shaved ice, fruits, syrup and honey add an authentic sweet touch to stave off the sweltering heat on summer days.

DREAMY GREEN TEA-FLAVOURED BINGSU

Far from the traditional ice shavings, the green tea flavour is an excellent combination of Korean and Japanese cuisine. Green tea is a staple food that can be found practically everywhere from sweets, cakes and even savoury food. The striking greenness of matcha ice shavings garnished with red bean paste create a sense of heavenly deliciousness for everyone. Turn your green tea Bingsu into a culinary masterpiece with a creative concoction of fluffy matcha ice cream and chunks of melon, topped with fragrant tea powder.

A RICE CAKE BINGSU FUSION

As a particularly popular Korean food, Tokbokki is widely used in many dishes, including Bingsu. When it comes to trying this sweetened snack, patbingsu-tteok is always a must. No Bingsu tour would be complete without savouring the smooth shaved ice and soft chewy rice cakes served with soya bean powder, almond and milk. Patbingsu-tteok may not be as sweet as the traditional red-bean Bingsu or not as refreshing as fruit shaved ice, but the diced rice cakes buried in the white ice shavings topped with soya bean powder offer an exhilarating culinary experience in summer.

CHEESE BINGSU

If you are an avid fan of cheese, you will have the opportunity to enjoy its savoury tasty in a very different way – cheese Bingsu. This cool shaved ice dish is covered with a layer of grated cheese served with almonds and condensed milk to create a popular Korean dessert. If you have tried all kinds of basic shaved ice, cheese Bingsu will be a treat for the tastebuds.

In addition to an amazing variety of famous Bingsu flavours around the world, there are lots of exotic variations and customisations available for this cool and refreshing dessert. Many people have fallen head over heels with its healthy sweetness, icy coolness and eye-catching decoration. You will be surprised to see a vast array of unique ice shavings, for instance, ice shaped into puppies, beaches or melons. As summer ramps up in July, treat yourself to a bowl of ice shavings with your friends and enjoy the sweetness and coolness of different flavours whilst beating the heat and making plans for your next trip.

Le Ha | Wanderlust Tips

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | The ultimate guide to California

How to get around San Francisco, California

If you are planning to spend some time in San Francisco? Here it is a comprehensive guide to San Francisco public transportation network that makes your SF adventure easier and more interesting.

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WALKING

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | The ultimate guide to San Francisco public transportation in California

Visiting San Francisco without a car is not only easy and affordable, it is actually more convenient 99% of the time. If you are able to get around by foot, it is an ideal way of traversing the city. As one of the most walkable cities in the United States, the streets of San Francisco are all mostly flat such as the Mission’s Valencia Street, the Marina’s Chestnut Street… Be careful while crossing busy streets or avenues.

BIKING

San Francisco is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country with many biking routes in the city such as Market Street or Golden Gate Park, which is one massive bicycle zone during rush hours. Keep in mind that do not ride on the sidewalks and you must ride slowly to avoid pedestrian collisions. If you do not have your own bike, the bike-sharing app Ford GoBike is a fantastic option with over a hundred bike stations in San Francisco.

MUNI BUS AND METRO SYSTEM

Buses run aplenty all around San Francisco and locals call all San Francisco’s bus and metro system “Muni”. As the oldest San Francisco public transportation system, Muni buses runs on streets while Muni Metro runs on rails and sometimes go underground. Bus stops come in many forms: small bus shelters or yellow and white paint on street poles. Metro stops can be found on an island in the middle of the street and in underground stations.

You can pay for an individual ticket when you hop on the bus, but your best option may be buying a Clipper Card in advance. A ride on Muni costs $2.75 (cash) and $2.50 (Clipper/MuniMobile) for adults. Youth (ages 5 to 18) and seniors (65 and older) receive a 25-cent discount.

BART

BART stands for Bay Area Rapid Transit. BART offers a total of 4 lines throughout the Bay Area, to Berkeley and Oakland and far beyond with 48 stations that whisk an annual estimate of 124.2 million riders. Taking BART anywhere within San Francisco costs $2 to $2.50. Taking it outside of the city will cost more.

CABLE CARS

Cable cars are San Francisco’s historic public transportation system. Cable cars are located downtown and run on three lines: Powell-Hyde, Powell-Mason and California Street. A single ride will set you back $7 or a multi-day pass is $39, so they are more popular with tourists than locals. You can buy passes at ticket kiosks and several local stores.

FERRIES

If you are looking for a scenic vista of San Francisco’s cityscape, then ferries are the way to go. There are two ferry systems operating in the bay: San Francisco Bay Ferry and Golden Gate Ferry. Aside from being primarily used by workers, ferries are an ideal way to spend the weekend at one of the bay-hugging coastal hamlets.

UBER/LYFT

Many locals use Uber daily and there are tons of drivers. No matter where you are in the city, you will not wait for more than a few minutes for a ride. The rates are also very affordable with most rides within the city under $10.

Wanderlust Tips

Hon Nua Island: A hidden paradise in Phu Yen

Boasting a fascinating scene of incredible majesty and captivating tranquillity, Hon Nua Island allows travellers to immerse themselves in an extraordinarily exquisite ambience, making it the perfect escape from the hectic pace of urban life.

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Located at the foot of Ca Pass linking the two central provinces of Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa, Hon Nua Island intrigues travellers with its stunningly unspoilt beauty that cannot be seen anywhere else. Hon Nua takes you deep into an utterly unique landscape with endlessly smooth white sand and giant rock formations. As the sea sparkles in the bright sunlight, this statuesque island is an eyeful of crystalline beauty, making it a spectacular slice of nature in Phu Yen.

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Hon Nua Island: A hidden paradise in Phu Yen

Take a chilled-out getaway to Hon Nua Island, you can go for a dip in the sparkling sapphire seawater, enjoy a stroll along the smooth white sand, admire the rock rapids and then venture out on a dazzling scuba diving adventure. Though not as astonishing and plentiful as the coral reefs in Nha Trang or Phu Quoc, the coral reefs here play a vital role in contributing to the living biodiversity of the local marine species. Just picture yourself that taking a dip in the aquamarine waters and marvelling at a vividly artful scene of branching corals and exotic species of colourful fish. If you are keen on fishing, make the best of your trip to there with a fishing experience as well as appreciating the magnificent nature.

There is a powerful red lighthouse on the top of Hon Nua Island built to show ships where to go or to warn them of danger. When night falls, climb to the top of this landmark for a stunning panoramic view of the rugged coastline and enjoy the cool sea breeze. This is also a romantic destination for couples to spend their anniversary. Furthermore, the boundary marking between Khanh Hoa and Phu Yen is also an interesting attraction for photography thanks to all its breathtaking seascape and fascinating rock formations.

Currently, there are very few foods and beverage options or restaurants on Hon Nua Island, so packing food for your trip is necessary. Camping overnight and having a barbecue are an exhilarating experience on Hon Nua Island. A boat trip from Phu Yen to Hon Nua costs about VND500,000/pax. For ease, you can rent stoves, BBQ’s and essential camping gear. With its unrivalled natural beauty and unmatchable serenity, Hon Nua Island is considered a hidden paradise, making it an ideal destination to add to your Vietnam bucket list.

Wanderlust Tips

How to survive bus travel in the US

If you are looking for an affordable way to get around the US, bus travel might be your best option. Check out these tips that will help your experience go seamlessly and interestingly.

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CHECK PRICES BEFORE YOUR BUS TRAVEL

Taking the bus in the US is definitely less expensive than driving, taking the train or flying. Before you plan your bus travel, you should go online, search for different bus companies and double-check bus booking sites in order to compare prices. Greyhound is one of the most frequently-used bus companies in the US with 3,700 cross-country locations. With such a large selection of destinations and an attractive range of ticketing options, Greyhound is an excellent choice for the backpacker looking to cover a large distance on a budget.

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | How to survive bus travel in the US

Alternatively, there are some other large regional providers. For example, Flixbus has an extensive network along popular travel routes in California, Arizona and Nevada while Megabus on the East Coast is the local favourite for navigating between New York, Boston and Washington, DC. Keep in mind that many bus providers do discounts and ticket promotions.

BUY A BUS TICKET ONLINE

Instead of turning up at the bus station and buy a ticket on the day you want to travel, it is worth buying a ticket online. Plan ahead to save money and help you avoid the chaotic rush of other passengers by booking via the company’s website in advance. Bus tickets are very easy to access through online booking – just two mouse clicks and your ticket is purchased with no extra hassle.

EXPECT FREQUENT REST STOPS

Buses operate 24 hours a day and make many stops to pick up, let off passengers and pull over at rest stops every few hours, especially on longer journeys. If you are going on a long trip of around 10 hours or more, there are plenty of different picking and dropping stops. These longer stops are usually listed on your tickets when you collect them, so take a look before departure.

STAY IN COMFORT

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | How to survive long-distance journeys in the US

Buses are well-equipped with all the usual modern conveniences that you come to expect when making a bus travel in the US. Furthermore, buses are equipped with reclining seats and tinted windows. However, you can consider travelling at awkward times of day in the hope that there will be fewer passengers and more space to spread out. At rest stops, take the chance ot get out and stretch your legs.

KEEP VALUABLES WITH YOU DURING YOUR BUS TRAVEL

When travelling on any public transport, the first and most important thing is to make sure that you bring all valuables onto the bus and keep them close to you during the whole trip. There are lots of people around you that is a chance of theft. Taking simple precautions makes this much less likely to happen to you.

Wanderlust Tips

A taste of Haiti

Whilst getting lost amidst the untouched Haitian natural scenery, a question suddenly rushed through my mind. What is the taste of Haiti? I did not know whether Haitian cuisine was a rich blend of different food from different cultures or it possessed its own unique features. My curiosity got the better of me, so I decided to explore the taste of Haiti in my own way.

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Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | A taste of Haiti

What was it like to eat in Haiti and to experience the western region of Hispaniola? Well, Hispaniola is a large island that is divided politically into the Republic of Haiti (west) and the Dominican Republic (east). As with the country’s language, Haitian cuisine has a sense of Creole. It is an interesting mélange of influences – a distinctive fusion of African, Arabian, Spanish and French culinary traditions. Haiti has unique cooking techniques and practices that make its food worlds apart from other countries in the Americas. Haiti intrigues foodies with its exotic yet familiar delicacies.

A SIGNATURE FLAVOUR OF HAITI

I am currently living in Port Au Prince. The city always exudes a flavourful ambience. Occasionally, you will catch a strong whiff of fried onion and bell peppers – two kinds of vegetables that are a popular staple of Caribbean-African-French cuisine. Creole food is a rich blend of multicultural flavours, including the wildness of African dishes and exquisite elegance of French and European traditions. Thanks to that, Haiti has a distinctive culinary style that makes its traditional food rich in flavour and taste.

After Christopher Columbus discovered the Americas, declaring Hispaniola as a Spanish-ruled territory and forcing native Haitians to become slaves, he saw firsthand how Hispaniola islanders roasted meat over a wooden grill with the rising flames and smoke, giving it a distinct flavour. However, the country’s history has had a significant impact on Haitian cuisine, forming a unique culinary style that blends African and French native influences. As well as using French as the main language, the Haitians include cheese, baguettes, butter and European-style desserts in their daily meals.

SEAFOOD IS CHEAPER THAN VEGETABLES IN HAITI

Haiti possesses a topography and climate that is not convenient for growing vegetables. Therefore, most vegetables in Haiti are imported from foreign countries except for carrots, amaranth and lettuce. Lobsters, sea cucumbers and shark fins that are expensive and rare in Vietnam are actually cheaper than vegetables in Haiti.

Haiti is home to an abundance of different-sized lobsters which are a tenth of the price compared to that in Vietnam. I think that if Haitian people do not consume huge amounts of fresh lobster, they could make lobster floss instead. In order to catch and collect shark fins and other types of seafood, Haitian fishermen have to use three-point spears. Their traditional hunting methods also require fishermen to dive directly into the sea. If you want to buy shark fins, then discuss with one of the spear hunters a few days before and cross your fingers for a catch.

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | A taste of cuisine

Lambi is a delicious conch delicacy that is unique to the region and relished by Haitians. Lambi has Haitians falling head over heels for its flavourful zest and rubbery flesh. Whenever my friends and I take a picnic on the beach, I often prepare the raw conch to barbecue. The aromatic smell of conch meat always makes my mouth water and my stomach rumble. Just pull the conch out of its shell, dip it into a spicy-sour sauce and put it in your mouth all at once. Its mouth-watering deliciousness will truly tantalise your tastebuds. An easy cooking technique, but one that brings a sense of gourmet delight.

AN UNFORGETTABLE CULINARY EXPERIENCE

Haitian cuisine bears a similar identity to other Caribbean countries, so it is often referred to as “Caribbean cuisine”. However, many Haitian delicacies have their own unique local twist because of the addition of many herbs and spicy peppers when cooking. After living in Haiti for a while, I know that white rice cooked with red beans is very common throughout Haiti. Another variation of this dish is a purée of either black, white beans or peas typically served on a bed of white rice. It is particularly interesting that as a hot tropical country, most Haitian dishes are stew or soup and local people tend to prefer stewed dishes with a fusion of beans, cloves and star anise.

One Sunday afternoon, I accepted an invitation to have dinner in my Haitian colleague’s house. She was greatly concerned about my Asian taste, but I was keen to try the Callaloo vegetable soup which is perhaps the most favourable dish in Haiti. The savoury dish makes use of a vast amount of ingredients including taro leaves, okra, fresh crabs, salted meat, onions, chillies, scallions, thyme, coconut milk and olive oil.

All the vegetables are chopped while crabs are also mashed and then filtered through water to make a broth. Initially, it makes me think of a type of Vietnamese vegetable soup – a mix of crab broth and jute leaves. However, there is a big difference. The smell of onions, coconut milk and basil leaves filled my nose, I immediately wanted to try the spicy, salty and refreshing taste of the vegetables. It was my first time enjoying a rich bowl of traditional Haitian soup.

Haitians eat quite a lot of sweetened and fried food. Whenever I taste the cakes, peanut butter and potato bread, I feel like the sugar can overwhelm all the other ingredients in the dish. Bananas or plantains are a staple side dish on any Haitian table that is usually squashed, boiled, fried or served as an appetizer. Additionally, coconut milk is an important ingredient in Creole cuisine. During the colonial period, Haitian people used coconut milk to cook Blancmange. This is a cold and sweet food made from coconut milk, gelatin, vanilla, fresh milk, condensed milk and fruit like the coconut milk jelly in Vietnam. Haiti truly gave me an interesting insight into its distinctive cuisine, making it an impressive experience on my journey.

Mori | Wanderlust Tips

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | San Francisco food you need try at least once

5 iconic dishes you must eat in San Francisco, California

San Francisco intrigues both locals and travellers with its plethora of culinary offerings. If you are looking to explore the wonderful world of San Francisco food, check out our list of the most famous dishes in the city by the Bay.

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CIOPPINO IS A FEAT OF SAN FRANCISCO FOOD

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | 5 iconic dishes you must eat in San Francisco, California

Originated in the North Beach area of San Francisco by Italian immigrants in the 19^th century, Cioppino is similar to the Bouillabaisse, a classic French soup including a medley of seafood from the Mediterranean region. Depending on where you get it, this seafood stew includes clams, mussels, squid, shrimp, Dungeness crab, scallops and fish along with garlic, onion, wine, tomatoes and herbs. People say that the dish’s name comes from the word “cupping”, meaning “to chop” or “chopped”. The dish is typically served with wine and sourdough bread.

Where to eat: Tadich Grill – 240 California Street, San Francisco, CA 94111

MISSION BURRITO

Sometimes called the San Francisco burrito or the Mission-style burrito, Mission burritos first became popular during the 1960s in the Mission District, San Francisco. A far cry from other burritos in San Diego and other parts of Southern California, Mission burritos are noted for its jumbo proportion, including extra rice and other goodies such as beans, sour cream and cheese. As a hot treat, hundreds of flour taquerias serve San Francisco burritos in the city. Try the Mission burrito for a true San Francisco food experience.

Where to eat: La Taqueria – 2889 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94110

CLAM CHOWDER IN A BREAD BOWL

No San Francisco food tour is complete without a sourdough bread bowl full of chowder. Basically a creamy New England clam chowder served in a circular sourdough loaf, the dish has a refreshing flavour and creamy texture, making it a must-try dish on any food bucket list. If you want to try a true taste of San Francisco food, then start off your meal with a bread bowl of fine clam chowder whilst enjoying the city’s charmingly foggy ambience.

Where to eat: Boudin Bistro – 160 Jefferson Street, San Francisco, CA 94133

DUNGENESS CRAB FOR A FULL SAN FRANCISCO FOOD TOUR

When it comes to San Francisco food, Dungeness crab is high up on the list. Every year, the crab season starts in November and runs through summer months of June and July. However, Dungeness crab is best in winter with the sweetest meat and biggest claws. This Pacific crab gets its name from the Dungeness Spit on the Straits of Juan de Fuca, which is a strait that serves as the border between the United States and Canada. Your San Francisco food tour would be incomplete without a few cups of Anchor steam beer.

Where to eat: Swan Oyster Depot – 1517 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109

ICE CREAM SUNDAE

If you ever find yourself burned out from the chaos of San Francisco, grabbing a classic ice cream sundae is a great idea. Ghirardelli’s famous sundaes are layered with several scoops of vanilla ice cream, handmade hot fudge, diced almonds, tons of whipped cream and a cherry on top. Whether it is summer or winter, treat yourself to an ice cream sundae and enjoy its sweetness and coolness whilst strolling around the city.

Where to eat: Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop – 2 New Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94105

Wanderlust Tips

Discover the heavenly beauty of Ly Son Island, Vietnam

Ly Son Island intrigues backpackers and travellers with its eye-popping natural landscapes, smooth sand and peaceful beaches, making it one of the most fascinating destinations to add to your Vietnam bucket list.

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Considered the precious jewel of the Quang Ngai waters, Ly Son exudes an unrivalled glamour, earning its status as a paradise island in Vietnam. Ly Son comprises two main islands; Big Island (Đảo Lớn) and Small Island (Đảo Bé). Big Island or Cù Lao Ré is not only the largest, inhabited area in the locality, but it is also home to an amazing diversity of mind-blowing natural landscapes. Additionally, Small Island conjures a spectacular natural picture, making it a must-visit tourist attraction for those who travel to Quang Ngai Province.

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Discover the heavenly beauty

Make the most of your trip to Ly Son Island and be sure to visit the array of Instagrammable sights such as Cau Cave which took hundreds of years to erode, To Vo Gate formed by volcanic rocks and uniquely-shaped formations undulating amongst the crystal-clear azure waters. What’s more, Big Island amazes travellers with Thoi Loi Mountain, offering a panoramic view of its charming natural surroundings.

Not to be missed during your trip to Ly Son is sunrise on Mu Cu Islet. The islet sparkling in the gentle sunshine at the break of dawn is simply mind-blowing. If you are looking for a true taste of nature, then retreat to one of the most fabulous beaches including Hang, Dua, Tay, Dung, Sep and Trung.

In addition to its captivating untouched nature, Ly Son is home to an amazing variety of valuable historical and cultural structures as well as gourmet cuisine. There is nothing more wonderful than embarking on a unique culinary journey, trying a spectrum of delectable seafood after strolling around Ly Son Island.

Ly Son Island features two distinct seasons. The rainy season falls from September to February and the dry season from March to August which unsurprisingly is the best time to visit this island. After arrival at Chu Lai Airport, you can travel to Ly Son Island by boat from Sa Ky Habour. Sitting on a boat bobbing gently up and down on the water in Quang Ngai Province will certainly be an unforgettable experience.

Wanderlust Tips

Top 5 incredible experiences in Duc Trong, Vietnam

Possessing a fabulous scene of majestic waterfalls, pristine eco-tourism sites and the most famous trekking road in Vietnam, Duc Trong District intrigues a large number of travellers for a new adventure in the Central Highlands. Here is a comprehensive list of top 5 incredible Duc Trong experiences that will win over your heart.

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Situated at an altitude of 600 – 1000m above sea level with an amazing area of over 900km², Duc Trong District is a popular district in Lam Dong Province. This place is also known as the end of the Di Linh Plateau. With its proximity to the National Routes 20 and 27, it takes around 30 minutes from downtown to Da Lat by car. Additionally, Duc Trong District enchants both locals and travellers with its temperate climate, beguiling natural landscapes and diverse ethnic culture, making it perfect for a new adventure.

DAI NINH LAKE – A NATURAL MASTERPIECE IN DUC TRONG DISTRICT

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Top 5 incredible experiences in Duc Trong, Vietnam

When it comes to lesser-known tourist destinations in Duc Trong, then Dai Ninh Lake should be high on the list. This hidden gem exudes a mysterious beauty that really comes alive at sunrise when this marvellous stretch of water rises from the clutches of the morning mist. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the lake boasts an exquisitely peaceful beauty with shimmering waves and small boats bobbing gently up and down on the water. Your trip to Duc Trong District would not be complete without visiting Dai Ninh Lake where you can enjoy a whole host of activities such as sightseeing and fishing.

PONGOUR WATERFALL – THE ALLURING BEAUTY IN DUC TRONG DISTRICT

Top 5 incredible experiences in Duc Trong, Vietnam

Pongour Waterfall or the seven-storey waterfall in Duc Trong District was crowned “Nam Thien De Nhat Thac” (the greatest natural waterfall in Southern Vietnam) by King Bao Dai. With a height of 50m, thunderous flows of water crash down over 7 layers of rock, forming a white foam. Located 50km from the centre of Da Lat City, Pongour Waterfall is an excellent tourist attraction for both domestic and foreign tourists thanks to its mesmerising majesty. Take a stroll along the wooden bridge over a vast lake to really appreciate its mind-blowing beauty. Additionally, there is a large valley nearby, ideal for relaxation, discovery and camping.

BAO DAI WATERFALL – A HIDDEN HAVEN

Bao Dai Waterfall, also known as Jraiblian in the Chu Ru language, is a majestic waterfall fully surrounded by undulating mountains and lush tropical forests, perfect for those wanting a more off-the-beaten-track adventure in Duc Trong. The flows of water cascading vertically over the cliff in the bright sunlight bring a taste of boldness and magnificence to this area. If you are seeking an exhilarating adventure in Duc Trong, Bao Dai Waterfall is definitely one to add to your travel itinerary.

GO TREKKING IN TA NANG AND PHAN DUNG

If you are a big fan of trekking, the Ta Nang – Phan Dung Route in Duc Trong District will definitely satisfy your wanderlust. Travelling through the verdant forests, across murmuring streams and via rugged passes may be a bit exhausting yet completely worth it as you venture through Ta Nang Forest. Surrounded by an abundance of greenery, wildflowers and birdsongs, the forest intrigues many backpackers and travellers with a meditative experience. Ta Nang – Phan Dung boasts a dazzling magical scene around the clock, making it a must-have experience on your travel bucket list.

K’LONG VILLAGE – CHICKEN VILLAGE

If you are keen to stray from the well-trodden tourist trail, then Chicken Village is a must for a more fulfilling and meaningful trip. Inhabited only by the K’Ho ethnic minority on the Lam Vien Plateau, Chicken Village bears a very close resemblance to other villages, yet follows the matriarchy. Aside from sightseeing, you can participate in a whole host of interesting harvest festivals as well as immersing yourself in the unique local life, enjoy sipping local wine, playing the gongs and praying for peace and happiness.

Wanderlust Tips

All posts by : Wanderlust Tips Team

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CIOPPINO IS A FEAT OF SAN FRANCISCO FOOD

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