Wanderlust Tips Team, Author at WANDERLUST TIPS • Page 91 of 195

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | A simple Vietnamese sandwich that has taken the world by storm

Banh Mi: A simple Vietnamese sandwich that has taken the world by storm

A delicious yet inexpensive sandwich that can be found on any street, Banh Mi has evolved over the years and has become even tastier with ever-varying combinations of eggs, ham, pâté, pork sausage and vegetables. Beyond the street-side food trucks or the small stores, Banh Mi has gained widespread praise for its excellent quality in America, Europe and around the world. People fall in love with its authentic and unique flavours and some would go as far as to say that it is the best sandwich in the world.

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THE ORIGIN OF BANH MI

Are you curious about the history of Banh Mi? Well, the bread originated from France and is more commonly known as a French baguette. The bread was then introduced to Vietnam – a country famous for authentic Asian cuisine. The typical crunchy French baguette is stuffed with a culinary blend of butter, jam and ham or served with soup. However, Vietnamese people were not formerly acquainted with the Western style, as a result, Banh Mi Hoa Ma was launched in Saigon to supply a Vietnamese twist to this French staple. A far cry from the French-flavoured baguette with butter and jam, the first Vietnamese sandwich was stuffed with a mélange of regional ingredients including pâté, Chinese char siu (barbecued pork), pork floss, cucumber and coriander.

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Banh Mi: A simple Vietnamese sandwich that has taken the world by storm

There is a significant difference between the traditional Western baguette and Banh Mi. A baguette is a long loaf of French bread that is commonly made from soft lean dough, meanwhile, Vietnamese sandwich has a soft, fluffy interior and is distinguishable by its thin crisp crust. Since the 90s, bread has become familiar to Vietnamese people. Nevertheless, it was not until ten years later that this Vietnamese bread was officially given the name “Banh Mi” instead of using Western terminology. Since then, the food has been an authentic icon of Vietnamese cuisine and has become popular around the world.

MORE THAN JUST A DISH, VIETNAMESE SANDWICH EXUDES AN UNPARALLELED TASTE

Over the course of time, Vietnamese sandwich has become more and more diverse with many regional variations, making it an attractive culinary experience amongst local and foreign foodies. A traditional Vietnamese sandwich is usually slathered in butter, pâté and then simply topped with a few slices of smoked pork, pork floss and refreshing cucumber. However, every region boasts a very different recipe, making changes to incorporate local ingredients.

No Vietnamese food tour would be complete without eating an authentic Banh Mi and you will not miss out as it can be found everywhere in Vietnam. In Hanoi, you can easily enjoy Banh Mi Chao (bread with toppings served in a hot pan), Banh Mi Nem Khoai (bread with chips and fermented pork rolls) – a portion of famous junk food for students. Going a little further from the capital, you can try breadsticks – a famous dish from Hai Phong Province. You will definitely feel nostalgia for your schooldays when eating this zesty snack.

Central Vietnam has travellers falling head over heels for its out-of-this-world cuisine and it is home to plenty of unique Vietnamese sandwich. Have you ever heard of Banh Mi Bot Loc – a unique blend of bread and Vietnamese tapioca dumplings? It is the “pièce de résistance” of Central provinces. An odd yet delectable combination, this dish is truly an excellent concoction that will keep your tastebuds guessing. A far cry from Vietnamese sandwich in the Northern region, Banh Mi in Nha Trang boasts an authentic sea-inspired taste as its topping is often made from basa fish and mackerel. After being marinated, they are sliced and fried until crispy golden brown. There is nothing more wonderful than frolicking on a sun-drenched beach and enjoying the refreshing ambience whilst you chow down on Banh Mi Nha Trang. It is an absolute must-try when visiting this fascinating coastal city. What’s more, do not miss a chance to try the famous Banh Mi Phuong in Hoi An, bread served with dried fish in Da Nang.

Waving goodbye to Northern and Central Vietnam, head towards Saigon – the homeland of Vietnamese sandwich. Banh Mi Saigon is not only a very delicious dish full of flavour, but it also has a close bond with Saigonese people. Pop to a roadside store and grab a Vietnamese sandwich. Saigon is famous for its diversity of Banh Mi, for instance, hot mixed bread, bread with pigskin.

Over time, this food has played a significant role in Vietnamese cuisine and culture. Vietnamese people have always had a special place in their hearts for this exquisite food. It became a popular dish that can be eaten regularly for breakfast, lunch or dinner. If you want to experience an authentic Vietnam lifestyle, then sitting on the sidewalk and chatting with your friends whilst chowing down on the most delicious sandwich in the world is definitely the way to do it.

BANH MI AND ITS GREAT ACHIEVEMENTS

Vietnamese sandwich is so delicious that it can tantalise the tastebuds of the fussiest of eaters across the globe. As the Vietnamese community immigrated and settled in America, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Germany and France in the 1975s, they also introduced Vietnamese sandwich to these Western countries. Today, Vietnamese people are so proud when Banh Mi is on a par with signature Western-style delicacies. There are so many beautiful words to describe this delicate dish, but if you are a fan of Banh Mi and have a special love for Vietnamese cuisine, then read about the significant events below for a profound insight into Vietnamese sandwich:

Famous chef Anthony Bourdain praised Banh Mi Phuong as the best Banh Mi in the world when visiting Hoi An in 2009.
On 24^th March 2011, “Banh Mi” was officially added to the Oxford dictionary to define that it is Vietnamese food.
Voted as the world’s best sandwich by The Guardian.
Voted as one of the 11 best street foods in the world by National Geographic magazine in 2013.
Ranked in the top 20 world’s best street foods by Huffington Post.
Topped the list of the 12 best street foods by American travel magazine Conde ‘Nast Traveler.
Ranked in the top 100 world-famous dishes, announced by the World Record Alliance – Wordkings and the World Top Institute in 2016.
CNN favoured as “The king of sandwiches in the world”.

Vietnamese sandwich has been making its mark on the globe due to its delicate deliciousness and rich aroma. However, it is the authentic Vietnamese flavour which embodies the endless love and soul of the Vietnamese people.

Wanderlust Tips

Your younger years are for grand adventures with your besties

It is said that every group of best friends has a thirst for adventures. Whether living far away or close to each other, seeing regularly or just twice a year, we all wish that we can make the most of our youth and travel with our best friends around the world.

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MAKE MEMORIES AND CHERISH MOMENTS

Travelling with your best friends will make your friendship stronger as you can both experience and explore the world together. You will have someone to relive all those awesome memories with for years to come.

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Your younger years are for grand adventures with your besties

PLANNING IS SO EXCITING

Planning is so exciting when you travel with your best friends. Choosing destinations and balancing your spending with your besties will get you both super excited for the adventures ahead.

STEP OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE TOGETHER

When travelling with your best friends, you can stay true to yourself and dare to do the seemingly impossible.

YOU ARE NEVER TRULY ALONE

There is no such thing as the dead time when you travel with your best friends. You can both share the moments full of laughter during your around-the-world trip.

YOU BOTH BECOME MORE CONFIDENT

You will no longer hesitate to interact with strangers or try adventures because having a friend by your side can make you more confident.

YOU CAN TALK OPENLY ABOUT MONEY

You can easily understand and get along with your best friends when it comes to spending. Hence, you will find it easier to stick to a budget and avoid buying anything unnecessary when travelling with your friends.

YOU UNDERSTAND EACH OTHER ON A MUCH DEEPER LEVEL

You both go through a lot from place to place during the adventures, you really get to know every side of your friend’s personality.

YOU WILL HAVE A LIFELONG PHOTO ALBUM

Travel photo albums will be always an awesome souvenir in your lifetime.

Wanderlust Tips

Railway adventures that will make your heart skip a beat

Sitting on a train for many hours or even a few days can bring endless joy and happiness to your heart. Gazing out of the carriage window, simply watching the world go by really allows you to appreciate the stunning beauty of this vast world and keeps the burning desire for railway adventures alive.

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DISCOVER THE SPECTACULAR MONGOLIAN STEPPE BY RAILWAY

Known as the world’s greatest railway, running from Moscow to Vladivostok and branching off to the Eurasian continent, the Trans-Siberian Railway will take visitors on an epic journey to explore tremendous destinations. Along the way, it provides remarkable views of the charmingly picturesque landscapes, but the real pièce de résistance is the leg of the journey between Mongolia and Beijing, China. After waving goodbye to Siberia and entering Mongolia, the train offers lush green views of the vast steppes dotted with scarlet-roofed houses.

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Railway adventures that will make your heart skip a beat

Catching a glimpse of the immense lakes brings an overwhelming sense of peace and tranquillity. As night falls, cast your eyes over the glimmering surface of the lake, the moonlight dancing across the water will make you feel like you have been transported to another planet. The extraordinary splendour of landscapes in China awaits passengers after a good night’s sleep. The Great Wall of China is most definitely a highlight en route. With views of the seemingly limitless wall, the majestic natural surroundings form a breathtaking picture in the minds and hearts of travellers.

Departure Point: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Terminus: Beijing, China
Duration: 28 hours and 30 minutes

EUROPEAN BEAUTY THROUGH PANORAMIC WINDOWS

Travelling around ancient and magnificent European countries is a dream for many travel enthusiasts. Striking highlights include the charmingly quintessential United Kingdom, fascinating Germany or romantic Spain. A particularly beautiful journey is from Cannes to Ventimiglia, where you can catch a glimpse of the gloriously picture-perfect views across the beautiful French countryside into the heart of romantic Italy.

This exquisite railway journey provides spectacular scenery, for instance, the Ligurian Sea with sparkling turquoise waters, magnificent Cagnes-sur-Mer, Juan-les-Pins or Antes. The tracks glide through the long rows of trees through idyllic villages, where you can get a view of locals, enjoying the slow pace of everyday life – allow a touch of peaceful Europe to fill your heart. As the train arrives into Nice and Monaco, you will be fascinated by the wide range of yachts and boats gently bobbing off the bay. After a short peek at the stunning waves, the rail line offers views of the undulating hills as it heads across the border into romantic Italy.

Departure Point: Cannes, France
Terminus: Ventimiglia, Italy
Duration: ~ 1 hour and 40 minutes

GLACIER EXPRESS IN EXQUISITE SWITZERLAND

Switzerland, a spellbindingly beautiful country, has always travellers falling head over heels in love with its beguiling landscapes. Instead of travelling by plane or car, hop on the Glacier Express connecting rail stations between the two mountainous resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz via Andermatt in the majestic Swiss Alps and take in the picture-perfect views of Switzerland. The eight-hour railway journey will allow you to gaze out at the breathtakingly beautiful natural surroundings. This extraordinary “express” will take passengers through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges.

The train offers panoramic windows with jaw-droppingly beautiful views of the vast green pastures. Additionally, the train ride climbs steep inclines to the Oberalp Pass at over 2,000m, then glides along the beautiful Landwasser viaduct with six limestone arches before winding its way slowly upwards towards the canyons. Take this rail journey in winter and you can watch the hypnotic snow as gentle flurries blanket the surrounding environment. Fall in love with the magnificent Swiss landscapes as everything is enveloped in ice. As the train heads into the final station, it is the time to hop off the Glacier Express, but the train journey through the Swiss Alps will certainly be an unforgettable experience.

Departure Point: Zermatt railway station
Terminus: St. Moritz Railway Station
Duration: ~ 7 hours

EXPLORE THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER

If you are a big fan of the famous Harry Potter film series, especially the Hogwarts Express that transported Harry and his friends to school, then take the opportunity to fully experience the fascinating wizarding world on the Jacobite Steam Train in Scotland and explore the magical Harry Potter filming locations. The railway journey will allow passengers to admire the picturesque beauty of Scotland and its captivating surroundings. Departing from Glasgow, you will travel through some of the United Kingdom’s most epic destinations.

Coursing through the mighty mountains, the train squeezes between the peaceful green fields and fetching Loch Shiel Lake, allowing passengers to marvel at the glorious views. Along the railway journey, there is a must for fans of the wizarding world. Be sure to pay attention when you cross over the 21-arched Glenfinnan viaduct – a location made famous by the Harry Potter films. Drawing inspiration from the Harry Potter film series, the train’s interior including tables, seats and doors, conjure a magically nostalgic picture. Taking a trip on the oldest railway in Scotland aboard the Hogwarts Express will definitely bring passengers the most fun-filled and memorable experience.

Departure Point: Glasgow Central Station
Terminus: Mallaig Railway Station
Duration: ~ 5 hours and 30 minutes

DISCOVER THE AFRICAN CONTINENT BY RAILWAY

Explore the African Continent in a different way. It will be definitely an extremely exhilarating experience as you depart from Tanzania to Kapiri Mposhi, a small town in Zambia. The railway journey takes 46 hours to travel about 1,860km, allowing plenty of time to realise that aside from ancient Europe and vibrant Asia, Africa is too home to such astounding beauty and culture. It can be said that there is no place in the world as wild and naturally-friendly as Africa.

The line from Tanzania to Zambia will transport you through the epic forests. Passengers will gain a fleeting but unforgettable insight into the local way of life. This two-day journey is truly fantastic as it provides that vital time for introspection whilst allowing you to appreciate the extraordinarily striking landscapes. This unique adventure will expose you to the beautifully rhythmic chaos that spans the world’s second-largest continent.

Departure Point: Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Terminus: Kapiri Mposhi, Zambia
Duration: ~ 46 hours

EXPERIENCE “DEATH RAILWAY”

Aside from the Tuk-tuks running around the streets, one of the iconic features in Thailand is the railway. The Death Railway or the Burma Railway not only provides panoramic views of unparalleled natural surroundings but also transports you back to train travel through a heroic history. In order to build the rail line connecting Bangkok, Thailand and Yangon, Myanmar (also known as Burma), many people lost their lives.

Today, a short stretch of the Death Railway is still in operation for visitors to experience the natural beauty of Thailand, where they can catch sights of the legendary bridge over the River Kwai after a long period of wars. The railway line cuts beautifully through the Thai countryside, allowing passengers to hear the murmuring water and listen for every rustle of the trees or the melody of birdsong. The magnificent landscape and great history have always made rail travel in Thailand more thrilling.

Departure Point: Thon Buri Railway Station, Bangkok, Thailand
Terminus: Nam Tok, Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand
Duration: ~ 5 hours

GLIDE PAST THE MAJESTIC MOUNT FUJI

You must not forget to add Japan by train to your travel bucket list. Japan is home to rail networks running all over the country. The high-speed trains have always attracted a large number of visitors, allowing them to catch sights of beautiful scenery. In particular, the Tokaido Shinkansen Railway offers incredible panoramic views of the beautiful scenery around Japan.

The railway journey from Tokyo to Osaka takes visitors through the magnificent landscapes, passing the majestic Mount Fuji en route. You will be extremely impressed by the excellent service of the railway industry in Japan. The trains are extremely clean, tidy, modern and professional. Sitting in a carriage, devouring a bento box with all kinds of delicious dishes, sipping a cup of aromatic tea and keeping your eyes peeled for the spectacular views that can be admired is the pride of Japanese people. Travelling along the Tokaido Shinkansen Railway is an ideal experience for your trip to Japan.

Departure Point: Tokyo, Japan
Terminus: Osaka, Japan
Duration: ~ 2.5 to 3 hours

LEGENDARY RAILWAY TRAVEL IN AMERICA

The Sunset Limited Train is the oldest continuously running train line in America. Since 1894, the route has been taking passengers from flashy Los Angeles to beautiful New Orleans. However, unfortunately, many Americans are unaware of the existence of the train. When visiting America, taking a trip on the Sunset Limited Train will be a unique experience to get a view of America and its modern and idyllic beauty.

On the Sunset Limited Train, bag yourself a window seat where you can marvel at the picturesque natural surroundings. Do not miss the views over peaceful Louisiana Bay, the bare cacti standing out against the vast sky and the spectacular sunset view in Arizona. Aside from the unrivalled scenery, the Sunset Limited Train has appealed to a huge range of passengers due to the rhythm of this two-day train journey. Enjoy the sound of American country music played merrily by amateur singers who might be carpenters, teachers or solo travellers by day.

Departure Point: Los Angeles, USA
Terminus: New Orleans, USA
Duration: ~ 21 hours

Thu Ha | Wanderlust Tips

Ta Dung Lake: ‘Ha Long Bay’ of Vietnam’s Central Highlands

If you are looking for an idyllic piece of nature in Vietnam, Ta Dung Lake, Dak Nong is the ideal destination to add to your bucket list, where you can catch glimpses of stunningly beautiful landscapes and enjoy a wide range of enticing outdoor activities.

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Situated between Dak P’lao and Dak Som Communes, Dak Glong District, Dak Nong Province, Ta Dung Lake is a giant freshwater lake, measuring nearly 22,103 hectares. About 45km from the centre of Gia Nghia Town, Ta Dung plays an important role in the biodiversity and geography between the South Central Highlands and Southeast Vietnam. What’s more, Ta Dung Lake is home to an amazing range of islands and islets, making it appear like a miniature version of Ha Long Bay.

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Ta Dung Lake: 'Ha Long Bay' of Vietnam’s Central Highlands

If you are planning a trip to Ta Dung, then you should visit in the rainy season between September and December. During this time, these undulating islands have both locals and travellers falling in love with the picturesque natural landscapes carpeted in lush tropical forests, making it suitable for outdoor activities and adventure experiences such as camping or hiking. Boasting an untouched natural beauty and peaceful ambience, Ta Dung Lake is truly the perfect destination for many travellers to the Central Highlands.

Take a trip to Ta Dung Lake, where you can immerse yourself in jaw-dropping natural beauty. When it comes to popular tourist attractions in Ta Dung, Chu Bluk Cave is high up on the list. Featuring more than 100 caves in different sizes, Chu Bluk Cave currently holds the record as the longest volcanic cave in Southeast Asia. Additionally, Dieu Thanh Waterfall, also known as Lieu Nung Waterfall, is also a must to add to your trip.

Comprising a group of 3 different waterfalls, Dieu Thanh Waterfall exudes an incredible majesty yet alluring charm. Apart from the compelling Ta Dung Lake, Krong No District is home to another very beautiful lake, called Ea Sno. With its unspoilt nature, serene ambience and captivating surroundings, Ea Sno Lake will win over your heart and definitely add something more to your trip.

Aside from charming scenery, Ta Dung Lake intrigues both domestic and foreign travellers with delicious local cuisine. Particularly, the famous speciality of Dak Glong Guava boasts a distinctive, mouthwatering taste. Additionally, snakes head, fish and Ruou Can (wine drunk out of a jar through pipes) are all must-tries when travelling to the Central Highlands.

Wanderlust Tips

The best US national parks to visit in winter

When it comes to natural parks, most of us conjure a picture of widely varied environments including arid deserts, rocky mountains, dense forests and glittering lakes. Across America, there is no shortage of scenic national parks which are perfect for a wintry adventure.

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SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, CALIFORNIA

Lying side by side in the southern Sierra Nevada east of the San Joaquin Valley, Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks are the most beautiful places to visit during winter. These national parks are full of breathtaking views, gorgeous valleys, snowy white peaks and the world’s largest sequoia trees. Snow blankets the landscape and creates a magical wonderland of family-friendly activities. To really get a sense for how enormous these giant trees are, you can take a walk through the Giant Forest.

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | The best US national parks to visit in winter — @mar_colle

Where: P.O. Box 89, Sequoia National Park, California
Best for: hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, rock climbing or horseback riding
Temperature: -8^oC to 3^oC
Tip: Whether you prefer to stay in the national parks themselves or in the surrounding areas, there are plenty of lodging options to choose from.

JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK, CALIFORNIA

Situated at an ecological crossroads, where the high Mojave Desert meets the low Colorado desert spanning 800,000 acres, Joshua Tree National Park is home to an impressive range of plant species, boulders, rugged mountains, gold mining ruins and desert plains dotted with trees. It does not get more magical than seeing freshly fallen flakes gracing the smoothly rounded boulders in winter.

Where: 74485 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms, California
Best for: rock climbing, hiking and biking
Temperature: 10^oC
Tip: If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, then you should pay a visit midweek.

YELLOWSTONE IN WYOMING, MONTANA AND IDAHO

Located in the west of the United States in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming, Yellowstone, America’s first national park, is a true marvel to behold and home to an amazing combination of natural beauty, rugged wilderness and abundant wildlife. During winter, Yellowstone becomes a spectacular snow-covered wonderland that allows visitors to engage in a variety of enthralling adventures. If you have not seen one of these best national parks in winter, you are missing out on one of the greatest experiences in the world.

Where: P.O. Box 168 Yellowstone , Wyoming
Best for: hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, wildlife watching, fishing and camping
Temperature: -20 to -5° C
Tip: Winter in the park begins December 15^th, so take a snowy jaunt around the Mammoth Hot Springs or Nymph Lake and enjoy the geothermal beauty of this iconic Yellowstone region.

BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK, TEXAS

Located in Southwestern Texas, snuggled up to the Mexican border, Big Bend National Park offers stunning panoramic views, hundreds of species of wildlife and an array of activities for visitors. Spanning an amazing area of 802,541 acres, winter in Big Bend provides a snowy solitude that is hard to replicate in many places. Spend your days strolling up Window View Trail for a photogenic view of the Window or Casa Grande (Big House).

Where: PO Box 129, Big Bend National Park, Texas
Best for: hiking, camping, fishing, river rafting, horseback riding and backpacking
Temperature: 18 to 22^oC (in November)
Tip: No matter when you visit Big Bend, you should bring a sun hat, sunscreen and plenty of water.

EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK, FLORIDA

Only a one-hour drive from the hustle and bustle of Miami, Everglades National Park encompasses 1.5 million acres of tropical and subtropical habitat and is home to one of the largest wetlands in the world. Here, visitors can see many species of birds, alligators, crocodiles or panthers. No Florida exploration is complete without stopping at one of these best national parks and taking an airboat tour to spot wildlife. If you are an adventure seeker, rent a canoe and then explore the mangroves on your own.

Where: Everglades National Park, 40001 State Road 9336 Homestead, Florida
Best for: birdwatching, camping and wildlife spotting
Temperature: 11^oC to 25^oC
Tip: The weather conditions in the Everglades can impact availability of certain activities, so check to see if a particular tour is currently running before making the trip.

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, ARIZONA

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, Grand Canyon is one of the world’s most renowned scenic national parks. During the winter months, the white snow contrasting with the colourful rocks makes for a powerful and inspiring landscape. Additionally, a winter visit to Arizona’s Grand Canyon is a great way to avoid crowds and enjoy festive activities. Take a stroll through its top attractions such as Yavapai Geology Museum, Bright Angel Trail or Desert View Watchtower for a stunning view.

Where: Northwestern Arizona
Best for: hiking, horseback riding, rafting, stargazing, wildlife watching and photography
Temperature: -6^oC to 4^oC
Tip: During winter, the Grand Canyon’s North Rim area is closed to visitors, so you should plan your accommodation and sightseeing outings near the park’s South Rim.

CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK, OREGON

Situated in Southern Oregon, Crater Lake National Park is home to the deepest lake in the United States. With an annual average of 43 feet of snow, Crater Lake is one of the snowiest places in the United States. Here, visitors can marvel at the panoramic views and natural formations of Wizard Island and the Phantom Ship. If you are looking for outdoor adventures in the winter or to simply relax and take in the views, then Crater Lake National Park should be added to your travel bucket list.

Where: 570 Rim Village Dr Crater Lake, Oregon
Best for: biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledging and snowmobiling
Temperature: 0.9°C to -7^oC
Tip: In winter, only the park’s south entrance is open, so travellers from Seattle or Portland must drive south to the Medford/Jacksonville area, then approach the park from the south.

Wanderlust Tips

Morocco: A sense of brilliant magic

When thinking of Morocco, its colourful architecture and aromatic spice souks always spring to my mind. Saint Laurent – a talented designer – found his own creative inspiration for his fashion masterpieces in colourful Morocco. This vibrant country pulses with intense vitality and culture, making it an endless inspiration for those who are passionate about creativity and adventure.

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MOROCCO – AN INSPIRATIONAL COUNTRY

Morocco conjures a surprisingly tuneful picture and makes my heart flutter with excitement. Fruitful orange trees lining the streets and glowing in the brilliant sunshine, they look like baubles hung on Christmas trees. The Eastern-inspired gardens boast a sun-dappled view with towering cacti interspersed with citrus and palm trees. Marvellous Morocco fascinates travellers with its gorgeous landscapes and laid-back ambience.

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Morocco: A sense of brilliant magic

Morocco is also home to plenty of precious treasures. Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city – possesses the world’s seventh-largest Hassan II Mosque with the highest minaret at 210m. The sacred mosque is an impressive example of Moroccan architecture that stands on a promontory looking out over the Atlantic Ocean. According to King Hassan II, God’s throne must be built on the water. With a potential capacity of 25.000 worshippers inside the mosque and a large space for another 80,000 in its grounds, this magnificent spiritual landmark truly made my heart skip a beat.

After a few hectic days getting lost in Casablanca, I visited the charming, blue-tinged city of Chefchaouen – a hidden gem in Morocco. The tradition of painting the buildings stems from the Jewish community. It is believed that the breathtaking shades of blue remind them of God’s power. Local residents have regularly repainted their walls, stairs and alleyways. The entire city is vividly bathed in shades of cerulean. Taking a stroll around the cobalt-hued city, you will get an awe-inspiring view of its distinctive architecture and authentic artistic style.

Fes, the second-largest city in Morocco, still has the air of a well-preserved medieval capital, bustling souks and stunning medinas. Fes is famous for its Bab Boujloud, also known as “The Blue Gate of Fes”. The gate is painted with elegant cobalt blue designs on one side while its reverse is green, forming a doorway between two equally colourful and dynamic worlds of Fès el-Jedid and Fès el-Bali. Additionally, Fes is home to an incredible maze of medinas that you can wander through and marvel at the priceless architectural and cultural treasures.

The last destination on my Moroccan travel itinerary is Marrakesh – Morocco’s fourth-largest city. This intoxicating city is known for its 18 traditional souks with a vast array of colourful and eye-catching wares. No Marrakesh trip would be complete without sightseeing, watching the never-ending movement of people and trying street food in hidden corners of the maze-like souks. For instance, try fragrant burgers, stir-fried meat sandwiches, refreshing juices and fresh cactus fruits peeled by enthusiastic vendors. The chaos and traders hawking seemingly add a sense of intense vitality to the fascinating city.

If you travel to Morocco, spending a night in a camp under the sparkling stars is an absolute must when exploring the Sahara Desert. It is worth experiencing the harsh temperatures and embracing your sense of adventure. The ups and downs of riding a camel whilst watching the sunrise and sunset is truly an unforgettable experience. As the sun lit up or went down over the creamy dunes, I felt as if I was basked in a fresh ambience and endless freedom.

ART ON EVERY CORNER

When it comes to ceramics, Moroccan mosaic architecture always springs to mind. The intricate zellige walls (geometric mosaic tilework) are an impressive aesthetic highlight of Moroccan architecture, a quintessential cultural heritage and a rich blend of African, European and Arab civilisation. Although the mosaic art was initiated by ancient Greeks thousands of years ago, Morocco made an awe-inspiring twist of art and architecture. In the past, only riads – Moroccan wealthy mansions or palaces – were designed and decorated with the mosaic technique, but it has gradually become more popular and can be found everywhere such as on the walls, dining tables, fountains, pillars and ceilings.

This is a respectful and honourable reminder for the Muslim community of their Almighty God. The elaborate mosaic artworks and designs are a shining example of Moroccan craftsmanship. A steady and careful touch by expert craftsmen can create masterpieces of ornamental Arabic calligraphy. Therefore, if you are an architecture aficionado and are passionate about exploring this artistic country, then staying in one of the typical riads in Morocco will definitely be an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.

Aside from such excellent mosaic artworks, Morocco is well-known for the striking variety and quality of its ceramic crafts. An amazing diversity of home goods and housewares, such as vases, jars, cans, teapots and trays are completely covered with pure silver and then styled into a specific shape. Once you see the delicate ceramic products, you cannot help but be in awe of the splendour and intricacy of Moroccan design.

Additionally, Morocco is the perfect destination for leather addicts due to its high-quality leather products and traditional tanning techniques. In French, “Maroquin” means Moroccan leather and is used in the word “Maroquinerie” meaning leather goods. Aside from a plethora of leather products displayed in the labyrinth of alleyways, eclectic souks and spotlight-grabbing medinas, you will be surprised and interested in wandering through the ancient Moroccan leather tanneries, which have been preserved for centuries.

The dyeing pits are located side by side and filled with a vast range of natural vegetable dyes and various liquids, such as poppy flowers for red, indigo for blue, mimosa and saffron for yellow. Particularly, saffron is costly, so this dye is applied sparingly to individual skins, which are then laid out to dry under the sun instead of soaking in a stone vessel. Moroccans have developed an excellent technique for dyeing, so their leather products are extremely impressive. For some types of dye, the water-mixed colour is completely different from its original colour. It is said that Morocco is truly a magical country bursting with colour, creativity and inspiration.

MOROCCAN CUISINE

There is a saying that “Fine words butter no parsnips”. If you are travelling to Morocco, you will be in for a delicious gastronomical treat with an amazing variety of gourmet dishes and fresh local ingredients. Tagine is a fascinating dish that can immediately tantalise your tastebuds. Tagine is a famous Moroccan stew slowly cooked in ceramic pots that look like a bell placed on a circular plate. Moroccan Tagine is an excellent mélange of meat (can be beef, chicken, tuna, sardines or lamb) and other healthy vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, sweet peppers and chillies to add more colours and complementary flavours.

Moroccan cuisine bears a very distinctive identity that is a rich blend of Andalusian (Spain) and Berber culture. (The Berbers are a major ethnic group of North African regions, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea). Beautifully and deliciously presented, Tagine is a significant culinary and cultural symbol in Morocco. Take a stroll around the traditional souks, where you can easily find plenty of clay or ceramic cooking vessels and trays. You can also buy smaller models for decoration or souvenirs. Thanks to the unique patterns and designs on traditional cookware, it makes an impressive twist for collectors.

Morocco is a gem in Northern Africa, making it a favourable tourist destination for travel enthusiasts. Morocco has people falling head over heels in love with its colourful beauty. Many travellers find Morocco fascinating and are keen to return to this magical country to once again experience and immerse themselves in its cacophony of hectic sounds and vibrant sights.

W.TIPS TRAVEL TO MOROCCO

VISA

If you are Vietnamese, you must apply for a visa to be able to travel to Morocco.

CURRENCY

In Morocco, the official currency is the Moroccan Dirham. A dirham is currently worth about VND2,350. Euros are accepted in some places.

CLIMATE

The Moroccan climate varies greatly throughout the day from the city to city, so you should pack outer-wears that can be worn alone or layered for cooler weather.

SHOPPING

When shopping at the souks or shops in Morocco, you can definitely find a bargain. You will be spoilt for choice with a huge number of spices, tea, pottery, mosaic or leather products, Argan oil and carpets.

OTHER NOTES

Do not take photos of people without their permission.
If you are a female traveller in Morocco, a shawl to cover your head is definitely necessary for a safe and comfortable journey.

Alex Tu | Wanderlust Tips

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | The best sites in San Francisco, California

The best museums in San Francisco, California

Whether you want to take in some culture or simply to elevate your Instagram feed, there is plenty of amazing museums in San Francisco that will take your breath away.

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DE YOUNG MUSEUM – SAN FRANCISCO

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | The best museums in San Francisco, California

If you are looking for some great art museums in San Francisco, start with the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park. This 125-year-old museum boasts more than 27,000 pieces of art, including American, African and oceanic collections.

Address: 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, SF, USA

Must see: Located on the 9^th floor, the Hamon observation tower offers a stunning view of Golden Gate Park, downtown San Francisco, the Bay and the Marin headlands.

SAN FRANCISCO MUSEUM OF MODERN ART

As one of the largest modern art museums in America, SFMOMA is home to 33,000 works of art, including painting, photography, architecture & design and media arts.

Address: 151 Third Street, SF, USA

Must see: The light-flooded space features 6 sculpture-decked terraces, as well as the largest living wall in the country with more than 19,000 plants.

CALIFORNIA ACADEMY OF SCIENCES

Established in 1853 and considered one of California’s oldest museums, California Academy of Sciences is a must-visit for children and adults alike. The 400,000-square-foot space features an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest and history museum.

Address: 55 Music Concourse Drive, SF, USA

Must see: The museum also has one of the most striking rooftops in the city, covered in seven rolling hills and home to about 1.7 million plants.

EXPLORATORIUM

Located on the waterfront at Pier 15, the Exploratorium intrigues both kids and adults with over 650 exhibits, including hands-on activities, science experiments and interactive galleries.

Address: Pier 15, Embarcadero at Green Street, San Francisco, USA

Must see: Self Made offers playful interactive activities, artworks, artifacts and costumes. There is also a sculpture made from 100,000 toothpicks.

LEGION OF HONOR

Located in Lands End, Legion of Honor is a feat of architecture clad in white limestone, marble and gleaming wood. The museum contains a collection of more than 800 European paintings, sculptures, photography and ancient art.

Address: 100 34th Avenue, San Francisco

Must see: Ancient art from Egypt, Greece and Rome fills the Hall of Antiquities

ASIAN ART MUSEUM

If you are looking for one of the greatest Asian museums in the USA, then the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco should be added to your bucket list. With a collection of more than 18,000 works from India, China, Japan, the museum is a very popular tourist attraction in San Francisco.

Address: 200 Larkin Street, San Francisco

Must see: Make sure to check out the Tattoos in Japanese Prints and Art Recovered From Shipwrecks.

MUSÉE MÉCANIQUE

Found by local legend Edward Galland Zelinsky, the museum houses more than 300 antique carnival games, musical instruments, vintage arcade machines, terrifying clown dolls and many others.

Address: Pier 45 Fisherman’s Wharf at the foot of Taylor Street, San Francisco

Tip: Musée Mécanique offers free admission every day of the week, just bring your coin jar to play the games.

CHILDREN’S CREATIVITY MUSEUM

If you are travelling to San Francisco with kids, the museums are the place to take them. Designed to encourage imagination and creativity, it is full of different labs, workshops and studios.

Address: 221 Fourth Street, San Francisco

Must see: LeRoy King Carousel, a storied relic originally constructed in 1906 would be worth a memorable experience.

CABLE CAR MUSEUM

Run by the Friends of the Cable Car Museum – a nonprofit organisation dedicated to the preservation of cable car history, the museum houses a collection of historic cable cars, photographs, mechanical displays and a gift shop.

Address: 1201 Mason Street, San Francisco

Must see: Check out 3 antique cable cars from the 1870s

MARITIME MUSEUM

Located in the Aquatic Park Bathhouse Building, the ship-shaped museum is a beautiful place to visit for some seafaring knowledge. The interior walls are covered with colourful psychedelic murals depicting the underwater world.

Address: 900 Beach Street, SF, USA

Tip: The museum is open seven days a week and offers free admission

CARTOON ART MUSEUM

If you are a fan of comic art, then take a visit to Cartoon Art Museum, one of these unique museums in San Francisco. Established in 1984, it displays nearly 7,000 works in its permanent collection, including comic books, political cartoons and graphic novels.

Address: 781 Beach Street, Floor 1 San Francisco, USA

Must see: Tables stationed around the space are stocked with drawing utensils for both adults and kids to create their own comic art.

Wanderlust Tips

10 must-do experiences in San Francisco, California

San Francisco is known the world for its fabulous beauty, distinct personality and iconic sites. Check out these top must-do experiences in San Francisco that you will not want to miss out on while visiting this glamorous city.

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SEE THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | 10 must-do experiences in San Francisco, California

The Golden Gate Bridge is obviously the most iconic structure in San Francisco. There are so many areas in the city you can get an amazing view of the Golden Gate Bridge, such as Bakers Beach, Land’s End, Crissy Field or the Presidio. You can walk, bike or drive across this red bridge for panoramic vistas of the downtown skyline.

FIND ALL OF THE HEARTS IN SAN FRANCISCO

Inspired by Tony Bennett’s song “I left my heart in San Francisco”, there are 131 giant hearts displayed around the city, each with a distinctive decoration and design. If you want to admire these heart-shaped statues and take pictures, then head to Pier 39, Union Square or AT & T Park, you will fall in love with this city and be ready to leave your heart in San Francisco.

VISIT ALCATRAZ ISLAND

Located 1.25 miles off the shores of San Francisco, Alcatraz Island was an active prison from 1933 to 1963 were housed some of the United States’ most notorious criminals, including George ‘Machine Gun’ Kelly, Al Capone and James ‘Whitey’ Bulger. Taking a tour of Alcatraz Island will be a fun-filled experience to learn about the history of this famous prison.

MARVEL AT FISHERMAN’S WHARF

Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the city’s busiest tourist areas on the waterfront. Check out Pier 39 for a chance to see the sea lions and indulge in some of the best seafood in the city. For an unforgettable experience, the place also offers plenty of places to eat, go shopping and entertain.

GOLDEN GATE PARK, SAN FRANCISCO

If you are looking for a great place to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist attractions, you need to check out Golden Gate Park. Having an area of 1,017 acres, the park is home to redwoods, green meadows and distinctive pagodas of the Japanese Tea Garden. Additionally, there are free lawn bowling lessons every Wednesday at noon.

HEAD TO CHINATOWN

One of the oldest communities of its kind in the United States, Chinatown in San Francisco provides a wealth of unique things to enjoy, making it a legendary destination for tourists, foodies and artists alike. There are many blocks and streets with restaurants, shops and bakeries.

EXPLORE CITY LIGHTS BOOKSTORE

Opend in 1953 by the famous poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti, City Lights Bookstore is one of the top independent bookstores in the US and a favourite of visitors to this fabulous city. Here, you can check out a handful of featured books and recommended titles. Feel free to come in, grab a book and spend some time reading.

VISIT COIT TOWER

Sitting atop Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower is a famous landmark in San Francisco that is easy to spot from any of the nearby districts. Step inside to admire the gorgeous murals on the first floor and then pay to take the elevator to the top floor for bird’s-eye views of the city. The tower is open every day except major holidays.

RIDE A CABLE CAR IN SAN FRANCISCO

If you want a fun way to get around the city, the cable cars in San Francisco are the way to go. Dating back to 1873, the cable cars has currently become a part of the city’s vital public transportation network. There is also a cable car museum that occupies a still-functioning cable-car barn and shows off three historic cable cars. Make sure you take one of these cars down the hilly streets of the city.

TAKE A FOOD WALKING TOUR

San Francisco is known for its fine food with eateries that will complete your San Francisco experience. Along the way, you will get the chance to try some gourmet chocolates, fresh baked breads and others. This tour runs twice a day at 10am and 2pm and covers about 7 to 8 blocks.

Wanderlust Tips

Ascott Vietnam certified with Hygiene Excellence and Safety Label

Nine properties of Ascott Vietnam certified with Ascott Cares x Bureau Veritas Hygiene Excellence and Safety Label.

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CapitaLand’s wholly-owned lodging business unit, The Ascott Limited (Ascott), one of the leading international lodging owner-operators, has received The Ascott Cares x Bureau Veritas Hygiene Excellence and Safety Label at nine of its properties in Vietnam. The Ascott Cares x Bureau Veritas Hygiene Excellence and Safety Label is a holistic programme developed in partnership with Ascott by leveraging Bureau Veritas’ health, hygiene and safety expertise of more than 190 years in providing testing, inspection and certification.

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Ascott Vietnam certified with Hygiene Excellence and Safety Label

Ascott has embarked on the programme as part of its Ascott Cares commitment to continue providing a safe home away from home for its guests and a safe working environment for its staff. Launched in May 2020, Ascott Cares covers nine commitments to enhance Ascott’s existing cleanliness protocols. Bureau Veritas conducted field audits at Ascott properties to ensure that the nine commitments under Ascott Cares meet the stringent requirements of Bureau Veritas’ inspection programme. Bureau Veritas’ auditors have verified that the properties have appropriate health, hygiene and safety procedures and processes in place, and are in line with globally recognised best practices on preventive measures in order to be certified with the Ascott Cares x Bureau Veritas Hygiene Excellence and Safety Label. There are nine Ascott’s properties being received the labels:

Somerset Grand Hanoi
Somerset Hoa Binh Hanoi
Somerset West Point Hanoi
Somerset Central TD Hai Phong City
Somerset Chancellor Court Ho Chi Minh City
Somerset Ho Chi Minh City
Somerset Vista Ho Chi Minh City
Somerset D1Mension Ho Chi Minh City
Citadines Central Binh Duong

Ms. Lew Yen Ping, Regional General Manager for Ascott Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar said: “At Ascott, we continue to place the health and well-being of our guests and associates as our top priority. Ascott always comply with Vietnamese government regulation of safety and hygiene and now our partnership with Bureau Veritas offers our guests a greater peace of mind as they book their stay with Ascott. Our guests can continue to place their trust in Ascott to provide a home away from home that is not only comfortable, but also clean, secure and safe. With a safe working environment, our associates are also able to better focus on caring for our guests. We look forward to welcoming new and returning guests back home at Ascott.”

Juliano Cardoso, Executive Vice President, CIF Asia, Pacific and Middle East, Bureau Veritas, commented: “We are very pleased to work with Ascott properties globally. The Ascott Cares x Bureau Veritas Hygiene Excellence and Safety Label allows Ascott to attest its commitment to reassure its guests that appropriate health, hygiene and safety standards are met and ensure safe working conditions for its employees through a consistent approach across all its properties. During this current health crisis, ensuring compliance to recommended health, hygiene and safety standards are at the forefront throughout society. We are proud to play our part in Shaping a World of Trust.”

Wanderlust Tips