Damascus has been a center for cultural achievement for decades and spans the most impressive historical developments to date. It is the oldest city in the world to be consistently inhabited and it is not hard to believe, as it only takes a brief walk down the city’s center to behold sculptures from antiquity to Medieval fortresses and distinctly Islamic mosques and courtyards. Situated at a crossroads of the three major religions, it reflects the immersion of these faiths over millennium and remains one of the few cities to offer such a peaceful coexistence. In fact the old town of the city is divided into districts which surround the important artifacts for Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Add in the fact that Syrian hospitality is a renowned spectacle in itself and it makes for a very rewarding journey. It is no wonder then, that Damascus is regaining a reputation among budget travelers eager to explore a new terrain and immerse themselves in a unique and extraordinary culture.

These are five things you must not miss on a short trip to Damascus:

1. Marvel at the Architectural Beauty of the Ummayad Mosque

The Ummayad mosque is undoubtedly the highlight of the sights in Damascus, an architectural feat for which people journey hundreds of miles merely to witness. It is the oldest and largest surviving mosque, with a striking courtyard and architectural simplicity and elegance. It not only bears significance to Muslims for the direct connection to the Prophet Muhammad and his kin, but also holds importance to Christianity as it was built on a basilica dedicated to John the Baptist, and still encompasses the shrine that contains his head. In addition, just behind the mosque can be found the tomb of Salah ah Din (Saladin), the famed conqueror of the Crusader era. (Just note that you may need to bring some covering clothing to enter – My tank top and tattoos were not permitted uncovered.)

(Image via Jamil Karim)

2. Gaze at the City from Atop Mount Qassioun

Jebel Qassioun offers a stunning view of the city from it’s elevated position, and this is a favorite spot for locals and families to relax and watch the sunset over Damascus. The city is illuminated at night, and the florescent green lighting is a sight to behold. There are a few cafes and restaurants at the viewpoint that serve food and alcohol, though at a slightly elevated price. It can be an entertaining and quite vigorous hike for those looking to attempt it in the daylight. For others, taxis are easily accessible. (For any risk takers out there, I suggest trying the infamous “Bear Beer” that is sold at cafes atop the mountain. Yes that is the name of the beer, and no it is not Syrian. But I have a hard time believing that a country that does celebrate alcohol publicly would actually purchase such a concoction willingly.)

(Image via Top7Guide )

3. Hone Your Haggling Skills at Souq al-Hamidiyya

This indoor street is fascinating spectacle on its own, and one can easily spend hours trying to navigate its nearly endless maze of stalls and shops. Specializing in everything from exotic spices to jewelry, clothing and sweets, this-bazaar like arena is a shopper’s paradise, and a sight that encapsulates the cultural undertones of an age old tradition. (You honestly will not know where one section ends and the next begins – I was browsing stalls laden with desserts and pastries when I suddenly found myself standing amidst a butcher’s paradise of hanging meats with no recollection of how.)

(Image via Damascus-Online)

4. Indulge Your Sweet Tooth with the Finest Exotic Chocolates from Ghraoui

The Ghraoui chocolatier, found at the far end of the Souq, is considered by many to be the finest source of chocolates in the world. With fine rich textured chocolate combined with exotic Middle Eastern fruits and nuts, it is uniquely Syrian, and uniquely delicious. According to the NY Times: “Ghraoui’s fawakeh mujaffafa come in octagonal silver gift boxes, and they look almost jewel-like: perfect miniature apricots, figs and even eggplants resting in individual paper nests. The fruits are picked while they are still tiny and carefully boiled in sugar syrup, then dried in the sun so they maintain their color and shape.” How can you resist? A personal favorite of mine was the pistachio and dark chocolate apricots.

(Image via Ghraoui)

5. Take a Night Out

While hardly the nightlife capital of the region like neighboring Beirut, Damascus has it’s share of places to grab a quick drink. While it is rare to see the locals engaging in such activity in public, the Christian Quarter of Old Town Damascus has a series of small bars to frequent, as do many of the newer upscale hotels and resorts. Or if one is in the mood for a nargileh (hookah) there is an abundance of restaurants and cafes which provide high quality flavored tobacco to smoke at a very reasonable price.

(Image via Luxique)

(Lead image via jemasmith)

Nicaragua is a haven for travelers of any variety. For some the goal is to manifest their freedom in a series of thrill seeking, death-defying acts, risking their life and their sanity at every bend. Others crave the peace and solitude of a thriving forest; hiking preserves while admiring unfettered wildlife and natural beauty amidst the backdrop of an oceanic jungle tropic. Or perhaps it is a relaxing island getaway you crave? Well, here lie the most beautiful and isolated beaches the Caribbean has to offer.

Although it is comparable to neighboring Costa Rica in terms of environment and climate, the attitude of Nicaragua is less tourist-dominated and as such it is more relaxed and unrestrained. Not to mention the dramatic decrease in prices. All in  all, Nicaragua is a place for firsts (and lasts…). With sights and activities that exist nowhere else in the world, the intrigue and splendor of this nation are likely to be the last thing you will ever forget.

1.Volcano Boarding

Never heard of it? Pass this chance up and you never will again. This Leon-based tour is exactly what it sounds like. After a guided two hour trek up Cerro Negra – an active volcano, you are handed a wooden platform with a handle and a jumpsuit. The task? To slide back down the volcano without falling off. Although the actual descent lasts only a few minutes, it is a utterly unique experience – to feel the heat radiating from the ground beneath you as you plow through the earth, sending a flurry of rocks and gravel flying around you in every direction. (The tour is an offer based out of the local Bigfoot Hostel – Click Here for more information) (Image via ThePirata)

2. Flee for Your Life at the Running of the Bulls

To traverse the city of Granada is like stepping into the past. The town is slowly restoring the Colonial-Era buildings and expanding it’s own quaint charm – complete with cobble-stone streets and horse drawn carriages. Except during the annual Running of the Bulls – a time when locals and tourists alike flock to the streets to witness a grand spectacle. Unlike it’s well-planned Spanish counterpart, the Nicaraguan event is, in fact, what it claims to be – a series of bulls loosed upon the main street amidst a sea of taunting, yelling, alcohol-soaked daredevils, all trying their hardest not to get gored. (Past attempts bore witness to one enraged bull knocking down a telephone pole, a stampede through a supermarket, and a local flying 12 feet in the air after being gored in the backside.) All in all, it makes for a very entertaining spectacle – just make sure to stay a bit out of the way, or at least remain sober long enough to dodge the stampede when necessary.

(Image via MatadorNetwork)

3. Unwind at a Caribbean Paradise

The Corn Islands in the Caribbean Sea are among the most relaxing and beautiful places to visit. Little Corn is a tropical paradise that has not yet succumbed to the tourists – perfect for escaping pressures and relaxing by the sea. By contrast,  Big Corn provides a more vibrant lifestyle- home for numerous bats, restaurants, water sports, and dive spots. (For more information Click Here.)

(Image via ToursNicaragua)

4. Place Your Bets on a No-Holds-Barred Cock Fight

I was a bit surprised by this one too (though I’m not sure why). This brutal spectacle of  violent sportsmanship was actually quite entertaining, more so to watch the frenzied locals placing their bets and shouting their encouragement than the actual fights itself (though my money was on the albino chicken pecking around the outside of the ring). It only helped that the admission fee included an unlimited supply of local beer, and 32 oz bottles of Tona went a long way to fueling this frenzy – ultimately resulting in an extensive chase around the forest for a runaway rooster. (Image via NelsonGuirado.com)

5. Trek the Volcanoes of Isla de Ometepe

Want to climb one of the world’s largest active volcanoes? Tour-guide optional. This small jungle-ridden island is the product of two volcanoes rising out of the sea, and while only one is still active, both are available to climb – Concepcion, the larger of the two, is complete with lava flows and sulfurous belches of smoke, while Maderas is currently home to a hollowed-out crater and a lake to swim. Just be warned- the hike is intense! (Our unguided trek up Concepcion persisted for almost seven hours before we allowed our weary, sweat-soaked bodies to relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of the sea and countryside around. It was undoubtedly worth the wait.)

(Image via Destination360)

6. Behold Creation… of the World’s Finest Rum

Flor de Cana is undoubtedly one of the highest  quality rums to be found. What could be more satisfying then to get a first hand look at how it is made? Tours of the factory in Chichigalpa are provided daily, and  come complete with a tasting – of every rum produced (2 of which are not even available for sale). (Tours must be arranged in a major city prior to arrival.) (Image via TheRumHowler)

7. Defy Gravity on a Tree-Top Zip Line

Few things are more exciting than to whiz through the air at speeds over 40 mph. The  platforms are built among the trees themselves, and you can witness the natural beauty of the forests as you race over the ravines and waterfalls. (Hopefully you are more skilled than I was, as I got stuck on almost every attempt. After getting caught in the line and spinning in a circle for a good 60 seconds, a guide had to come after me to untangle the line. But at least I got a more complete view of the forests?)

(Image via Travelpod

8. Surf the Waves at San Juan del Sur

This relaxing beach town has grown in popularity as both a vacation getaway and a haven for surfers. If you are unfamiliar with the process, don’t fret – there are a variety of rental shops that also provide lessons and training tips. (Image via TicoTravel)

9. Wander the Cloud Forests-

These forest reserves derive their name from the high altitudes at which they are found, causing the clouds to settle around the tree-tops themselves. They are home to the most dazzling array of plant life and exotic animals, including howler monkeys, jaguars, and even the rare emerald-plumed quetzal. The lush habitats can be traversed extensively by willing hikers and admirers and are located within a close proximity to the major cities.

(Image via 2GoGlobal)

10. Survive the Five-Minute Floods

The winter season in Nicaragua is a mystical conundrum – within a matter of minutes the sky can turn from a sunny calm to a torrential downpour. My first day in Leon was a prime example of this. After wandering the streets in shorts and sandals, the sky suddenly darkened and the heavens themselves opened up to unleash a pounding fury upon my shoulders. The narrow cobble-stone streets were shaped in steep inclines and descents, an effect which only heightened the impact of the perpetually flowing river that flooded the city. It grew to a height of what had to be at least 4 feet, and I had to push my way through a chest-high force that threatened to knock me over. After finally reaching my destination, I stopped briefly to dry off – during which time the rains ceased and the warmth and sunlight returned once more.

(Image via LatahLibrary)

Among the multitude of budget hostels and hospedajes, one destination reclaims it’s renown among young travelers- El Mono Barbe, or The Bearded Monkey.

Located just out of the main square in Granada, Bearded Monkey offers a few different options for travelers – possibilities ranging from a private room to renting a hammock in the courtyard. Unfortunately, none of these choices allow the option of actually sleeping. The hostel is so well known, that it has transformed from a sleeping/ eating quarters into a full blown bar, and the rowdy drunken tourists seem determined to make as much of a scene as is humanly possible. The tables at the bar and restaurant are constantly full, and you must book a bed a few days in advance to even be considered – that includes sleeping on an empty mattress or a hammock outside. The restaurant does supply some delicious food, but unfortunately the price is inflated beyond what it should be and the service is slow.

It is a great place to meet backpackers from all over the world over a beer or some Flor de Cana, but unfortunately that is about all you will see. Don’t expect to meet any local Nicaraguans or to hone your Spanish skills, as the drunken Americans, Australians, Israelis, and Europeans that frequent the place are not too interested.

A better alternative would be a hostel one street north, and the Monkey’s major competitor – La Libertad. This quaint hostel closely resembles the Bearded Monkey in appearance and structure, but at a reduced price and a much more hospitable environment, The owner offers a multitude of amenities, including a free breakfast, cleanly exterior, and endless entertainment – in the form of a family of friendly kittens chasing each other around the garden. That’s right, the garden. Built inside the hostel itself, it houses a series of exotic trees and fountains that give shelter to the kittens and hummingbirds.

The hammocks stretched from the rafters are in far better shape, and you don’t have to worry about stealing someone else’s bed, as there is always plenty of room in the dorms themselves. If that isn’t enough, the bar is significantly cheaper and hosts a nightly happy hour with the chance to score free drinks. In addition, they offer free internet, laundry service, tour information, and use of the kitchen – all assisted by a friendly and helpful staff.

After attempting both hostels, the choice was evident. Although I still frequented the Monkey occasionally for nightlife, I was far happier sleeping in a hostel that actually allowed me to sleep.

Try 40 years… Now imagine an island full of clubs such as these. Clubs that have continued to update and keep their appeal through countless generations of party-goers the world over. And there you have it – Ibiza.

Ibiza in the summer is synonymous with the word party.  No place on earth has more of a reputation for nightlife and the small island is now a fantasy for clubbers around the world. This legendary tourist spot has come a long way from its hippie roots to cement itself as the premier entertainment capital of the world and a haven for dance music.

One of the largest of the Balearic Islands, Ibiza lies off the coast of the Spain’s Iberian Peninsula in the Meditteranean Sea. Although the northeastern side of the island remains relatively isolated and surrounded by forest, the highlight is undoubtedly the Southern Coast – ringed with tourist resorts and a massive range of bars and clubs and aptly named Ibiza Town. While the beautiful beaches have the potential for a relaxing island getaway, this isn’t going to happen. Not in the summer anyways.  The island is so popular that it draws in young crowds from all over the world for one reason, and one reason alone. To party.

The island’s primary reputation is as the headquarters of electronic music. Ibiza is often attributed as the birthplace of the rave, and it was here that Dance music officially took off. To this day it still lives up to the hype, featuring the premier DJ’s in the world on a nightly basis over the summer, many of whom have regular guest spots and appearances at their own respective clubs. It is not uncommon to see performances by Tiesto, Deadmau5, Armin van Buuren, Axwell, and Gareth Emery, to name a few – all in a single visit. In fact, it is tough to find a DJ who has not spun in Ibiza, and the majority of live recordings that are released take place in one of these clubs. (Click Here to see a list of upcoming shows and events)

The most notable of the clubs are Pacha, Amnesia, Space, El Divino, and Privilege – all of whom compete with each other for title by drawing in the largest names in house and trance and consistently packing the dance floors with massive sound and light spectacles. Privilege was ranked as the world’s largest nightclub, with a capacity exceeding 10,000, where as Pacha is considered one of the most modern and impressive in existence. It has even become a franchise, with clubs in cities all over the world, including New York, London, and Munich, and its own line of magazines.

In addition to the expanse of musical performances and impressive displays, Ibiza is often celebrated for it’s laid back nature (though there have been some recent attempts to limit this). Clubs are open virtually all day and night, and there is never a shortage of places to party or scenes to try. Even within the top clubs, the attitude is often relaxed, with no dress code or requirements. (It is actually recommended to avoid dressing up if you plan to stay by the stage as the clubs are known for their nightly foam parties.) Clothing itself is optional.

The only real gripe is the price (well…and the gradually lowering average age of clubbers) – everything in Ibiza is expensive beyond belief, so plan accordingly.

It is rare that a travel spot is actually able to live up to the hype, but Ibiza just happens to be one of those places. Although it is an ideal spot for a brief getaway, it won’t be easy to stay too long – a shrinking wallet and a waning liver will see to it.

(Image via WayFaring)

Holiday World, which use to be called Santa Claus Land, is an amusement park located off I-64 about an hour west of Louisville. The park is divided into several sections, each one celebrating a different holiday. You have Christmas (for obvious reasons), Halloween, the Fourth of July, and Thanksgiving. These days you also have Splashin’ Safari, which is a water park, and something called Holidog’s FunTown, a section dedicated to the little kids.

The park first opened in in 1946, nine years before Disney got around to starting his egotistically named joint. Santa Claus Land, therefore, was the world’s first theme park.

Santa Claus Land’s owners changed the name to Holiday World in 1984 after adding the Fourth of July and Halloween sections to attract more visitors. This is the park that I remember best as a kid. Even though they changed the name, everyone still called it Santa Claus Land. The best ride at the time was the Firecracker, a tiny roller coaster that almost gave you whiplash. The Firecracker has since been removed from the park. Apparently Holidog’s FunTown now resides in that section.

Holiday World continued to draw visitors throughout the Midwest during the 1980s and 90s, despite the presence of Kings island just outside of Cincinnati. I can only remember going to Kings Island twice. Holiday World was way more fun. If nothing else, they had that giant Santa statue. I would climb all over that thing, but that was before everyone was so litigious that companies could still allow children to have fun without calling their lawyers for a consultation.

Holiday World’s fun factor became especially more awesome in the 80s when it started investing a ton of money into the park. Many of the  upgrades that I loved so much as a child, however, have been replaced by newer features. Some kid will inevitably get upset that these new ones have been removed a couple decades from now, so I feel justified lamenting the lose of my beloved Banshee, bumper boats, and Virginia Reel. They even took out the wax museum and the petting zoo.

Today’s park, however, looks pretty good in comparison to the small town one that I once enjoyed. Pilgrim’s Plunge is listed as the tallest water ride in the world; Holiday World is also home to the Wildebeest, which is the longest water coaster in the world. The theme park also has a wooden roller coaster that has received best-of awards for the past three years in a row. It seems that they’ve replaced a lot of the themed elements with straight-up thrill rides, which is probably a good business decision. People don’t want wax museums. They want to to be scared out of their minds. The amazing thing is that my family actually spent so much time hanging around Santa’s Workshop and the wax museum back in the 80s. As much as I hate to admit it, the recent changes are for the best.

One thing hasn’t changed, though. They still have free unlimited soft drinks.

Upon entering, it seems pretty much like any other museum. It’s cold and clean. A sculpture dominates one corner of the first floor and a large painting hangs on the wall. Neither seem to fit what you might think of as “Southern art.” The second floor shatters stereotypes. The Ogden has an impressive collection of glass art that ranges from simple vases to post-modern compositions. It’s at this point that I kind of woke up and realized that any stereotypes where things that I had created myself. Georgia, after all, is home to the Savannah College of Art and Design, one of the most prestigious art schools in the country. Why wouldn’t a museum focusing on Southern art have a wide range of interesting styles?

The museum’s permanent collection is not nearly as large as the space that it makes for exhibitions. That’s a good thing, because the exhibitions were amazing.

A small exhibition focusing on the George Andrews, Benny Andrews, and Nene Humphrey showed how individuals from within the same family can approach art from perspectives that differ dramatically. Placing the artwork of these three family members side by side showed how different their individual styles really are. There’s no mistaking one for the others.

The most impressive exhibition at the Ogden was “Where They At,” a collection of photographs, music, and artifacts from the New Orleans Hip-Hop and Bounce scenes. The exhibit focused on the photographs of Aubrey Edwards and the writing of journalist Alison Fensterstock. The photographs were saturated with colors, showing every detail of performers who once dominated the scene in New Orleans. I found myself drawn to the descriptions of each artist, many of which included quotes directly from the individuals. It showed how greatly the scene varied during the 70s, 80s, and 90s. The exhibit also included numerous iPods and iPads loaded with music from the scene. Some of it was incredibly hokey. Just pitiful attempts at commercial success. Others were simply incredible, defying any boundaries by creating a sound that struggled over the New Orleans fascination with jazz to forge something original and new.

It’s impossible to visit the Ogden Museum of Southern Art without discussing one painting in the permanent collection: Clyde Broadway’s “Trinity – Elvis, Jesus and Robert E. Lee.” It comes as close to a Southern stereotype as you can imagine, but it’s nearly impossible for me to determine whether Broadway is serious or just kidding around. My immediate response was to laugh. Then I couldn’t help but wonder whether Broadway was depicting his own feelings or a representation of Southern culture that focuses on these three iconic figures. Either way, it’s hilarious, sad, and absolutely impossible not to take a picture of regardless of the museum’s camera policy.

(Image via: This is Not the Wall)

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Once you enter the aquarium, however, its a whole different world. Not the underwater adventure that you might expect, though.

The experience is entirely underwhelming. Especially if you’ve been to really great aquariums such as the National Aquarium in Baltimore. While the building’s exterior stands out from the other structures around it, the inside is little more than an expensive playground. The aquarium’s directors obviously devote a lot of time to thinking about how they can appeal to children, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. There is a certain level of child-oriented BS that you expect whenever you visit any museum, zoo, or aquarium. This, however, is too much.

The first floor starts off fairly interesting. The large jellyfish exhibit shows the odd aquatic creatures at various stages of maturity. The aquariums have black lighting that make the jellyfish glow. That’s pretty cool. Don’t get your hopes up for much more.

The second floor holds two river otters that are much larger than I expected. Again, that’s pretty cool. Then you see the obligatory penguins and an albino gator. And that’s pretty much it unless you feel like standing in line for  half an hour for the chance to touch a stingray.

I should have known that the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas wasn’t for me. It’s supported by every oil company that you can name, and a whole bunch that you probably can’t. The logos fill up a section of wall that’s at least a square yard in size. With so much money coming in from the oil industry, it’s impossible for the aquarium to make any kind of statement in favor of the surrounding environment. Instead, everything is displayed as an attempt to solve problems (example: NO has artificial coral for wildlife and plants in the surrounding waterways), but it never even hints at the source of those problems. It’s a complete joke.

The real disappointment, though, is the lack of interesting design. One of the things that I love so much about the National Aquarium in Baltimore is that they spent a lot of time creating interior spaces that immerse visitors in an aquatic world. The Audubon Aquarium, however, keeps you separate from that world. I walked through the entire building in less than two hours. At nearly $20 for admission, I say save your money until they make they make an exhibit worth the price.

(Image via: Download Softfree)

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History and Details of the Cube Houses in Rotterdam

Designed by architect Piet Blom in the mid-1980s (1984), Rotterdam’s Cube Houses are sure to leave casual, as well as educated onlookers’ mouths agape. Hovering relatively high overhead along a pedestrian bridge that spans Overblaak Street, Blom’s design takes the idea of the typical, ground-level structure and tilts that design on its side, forty-five degrees off center. So in addition to floating above the main street as high as the bridge, the houses also appear to be some kind of puzzle, blown up to a gigantic scale!

Mostly yellow with white trim, the houses have a quaint appearance, as they hold taut together, nestled in one next to the other and all at the extremely odd angle. Further extending the strangeness of the design, the thirty-eight tilted houses (plus two additional specialty cubes) also sit upon architectural pylons shaped as hexagons. For those travelers interested in seeing how the denizens of these strange architectural curiosities live (they are really inhabited by people!), one of the cubes is open for touring, as a savvy inhabitant decided to “go with the flow,” opening his home to onlookers and charging a small fee.

Much like a normal home, each of the cubes has a normal entrance on the street or ground level, as well as a kitchen and living area on the first floor, which is triangle-shaped and features windows that open on to the environment below. Bathroom and bedrooms are on the second floor, and on the third level, often times there is a garden. The top area of the pyramid, also triangular, is entirely composed of windows.

Click for more information on visiting the Cube Houses in Rotterdam.
(Image via: Wikipedia Commons)

Here’s a little fun fact: Did you know that the Rainier Cherry was actually developed in the 1950s (1952) at Washington State University? The “premium” cherry often goes for a $1 per cherry in many Asian countries. They are succulent, aren’t they?

Once upon a time I was working as a long haul trucker. I had just married my wife on a beach in Southern California, put her on a plane to go “home,” then was to push from Los Angeles to Seattle. The night before I embarked, I got a call from my Road-Warrior partner that I would “definitely need to make a stop at Lake Shasta.” He had pushed to Seattle during the prior week.

As I was gearing up to depart early the next morning, I got a call from my employer stating that I’d need to make a detour through South San Francisco to make a drop-off/pick-up. So much for the lake.

After cutting west to the central California coast, then back east to central-central California, I hit a hard left on I-5 and put the hammer down to let her roll. Just after pushing through Sacramento, I caught a glimpse of a monstrous land feature in the distance. At the time, I had no idea I was so far from said feature. It looked like a “decently” sized mountain. I had been sucked into the cattle country of central Cali. and had quickly forgotten that I was amongst the tallest mountain bearing state in the lower 48.

As I rolled through Redding, it became apparent to me that the peak I was heading toward was none other than Mt. Shasta. I immediately launched into the jingle from the 80s soda commerical:

Don’t give me that so-so soda… I wanna POP! (pop, pop, pop, pop) I want a SSSSSHASSSTA!

About 5 – 10 miles north of Redding, I came upon one of the most beautiful places I had ever seen: Shasta National Forest and Lake Shasta/Shasta Lake. Yeah. I “definitely needed to make a stop…”

After some quick enjoyment, I continued my venture north, on what I still consider to be the most enjoyable Interstate drive I have ever embarked upon. Approaching Mt. Shasta I was awe-stricken. I was aware that it was a stratovolcano, but somehow it wasn’t on my list of American 14′ers to be climbed. It is now.

I’ve seen many-a-mountain, but there are few that seemingly stand alone above their surrounding terrain and make you feel so incredibly insignificant. One of my favorite quotes about Mt. Shasta:

When I first caught sight of it over the braided folds of the Sacramento Valley, I was 50 miles away and afoot, alone and weary. Yet all my blood turned to wine and I have not been weary since. – John Muir

After sitting in its magnificent presence for a short time, I continued working my way north, through some of the coolest towns and cities the United States has to offer. If you roll this way, by this route, you’ll want to spend some time in some of these places. All the little wilderness towns in Northern California; all of them in Southern Oregon. And of course, the larger places like Medford, OR, and Grants Pass, OR.

As I rolled through Eugene, OR, it was necessary to stop and change into a pair of Nike shoes and shorts–Eugene was the birthplace of the Swoosh, after all.

I was tired. Really tired. But the spirit of Steve Prefontaine was pushing me to continue.

I crashed out before reaching the Oregon/Washington border. Knowing I was less than 5 hours from Seattle, I wanted to check out what I had been told was one of the most underrated cities in the United States, Portland. Officially: I concur. But I must be moving on.

As I pushed across the border, it wasn’t long before I caught sight of what I was hoping to see. I had never been to the Pacific Northwest before this drive. Seeing Mt. Rainier with my own eyes for the very first time just made me grin. What else could I do? Another 14′er, another stratovolcano, another grand formation towering over the surrounding landscape, and offering a perfect presence in the panorama.

When traveling along this route, you’ll have to cut off the beaten path to physically touch Mt. Tacoma/Mt. Rainier. It’s actually faster to travel around, and come in from the north side, than to traverse the twists and turns in approaching from the south-west. Then again, if you’re looking for adventure…

I look forward to road-tripping this route again in the nearer future. It was a 700+ mile journey that in memory took all of 45 minutes. There was so much “new” coming with every dip and turn in the road, I only felt like I’d never have enough time to take it all in.

Finally, it’s worth mentioning: This is a summer road-trip. Do trust.

(Image via travelblog.org)

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Khun Pic’s Bahn Thai is located inside of a house on a block otherwise-dedicated to shopping and theater. Don’t be fooled though — this is a full-scale restaurant, just the ambiance is an actual house. But the coziness factor of finding yourself in someone’s living and dining rooms is compelling, and it makes the experience of dining at Khun Pic’s a true memory in the making. The wait can be long since the restaurant is owned and operated entirely by just two people, a husband and a wife team. She cooks, he does everything else, so if you’re hungry, then consider getting there promptly at restaurant opening since you may be waiting a bit to get served.

The menu has been honed to perfection, with a limited number of entrees, appetizers and noodles, and a special or two each evening (until they run out). Fear not: the classic curries and any expected meat can be found on the menu — but covering only a single side of a page, you won’t find a hundred specialties, just the basics done right.

Khun Pic’s Bahn Thai Restaurant
3429 Southeast Belmont Street (mid-block, between SE 34th/35th Aves.)
Portland, OR 97214-4246
(503) 235-1610
Hours: Tues-Sat 6:00pm-? pm (not late; I’d say on average 11pm)

(Image Credit: Portland Restaurant Review)

Modern Cairo is a mesh between ancient traditions and customs and the developing modernity of infrastructure and progress. As such, the city has no shortage of interesting sights and experiences, though it may be confusing to navigate. Here are the most notable experiences to behold on a short trip:

1. Ride a Camel Around the Pyramids

The pyramids of Giza are undoubtedly Egypt’s most well known landmarks. The only of the seven wonders to survive today, the pyramids are one of the greatest mysteries of the ancient world, and it is nothing short of  spectacular to behold their splendor in person. The massive stone blocks stretch up to the sky so ornately that it seems highly dubious to imagine them being built by hands- let alone hands thousands of years old. Equally as impressive is the mythological feline carving of the Sphinx, located near the entrance to the pyramids.

Camel and horse rides can be arranged to trek the desert for a few miles around the pyramids and they even stop long enough to allow an attempt at climbing them- if you’re discreet. (I couldn’t make it past the first few layers of stones). The tour is in actuality just one guide on a camel and the rides are highly recommended ; they shave off valuable time waiting and avoid the crowds that tend to collect in the afternoon. Besides, how many times in your life will you get to ride a camel through the Arabian desert? Just be careful getting off- they bite.

(Image via Jamil Karim)

2. Relax in the Al Azhar Park

The Al Azhar Park is, in my opinion, the most breathtaking view in all the city. Located on a hill overlooking Old Cairo in an area that is anything but glamorous (a poor attempt to locate the park on my own led me through winding streets of abandoned buildings, waste sites, squalid apartment homes, and the shoulder of a major freeway in search of it- and I was not disappointed), this obvious contrast lends only more appreciation to the beauty within.

The open-air park was built by the Aga Khan Development Network and officially inaugurated in 2005. Designed as an economic development project, the intent was to restore life and greenery to Cairo and incorporate many of the historical elements of the Islamic world. It includes a variety of gardens and floral pathways as well as stunning fountains and lakes. There is also a delicious restaurant located within the park that becomes a gathering place.  The month of Ramadan provides even more festivities as people dine in groups and enjoy live music each sunset to celebrate the breaking of their fast .

(Image via Jamil Karim)

3. Endless Shopping at Khan al Khalili

I entered this well-known souq/ shopping district with little cash, and absolutely no intention of buying anything. A short fifteen minutes later I was holding a new hookah laden with coals and tobacco, a stuffed camel, a necklace, and way too much falafel, all of which I deposited into a large duffel bag (also purchased). Oddly enough, I still had some cash left over.

Needless to say, this is a popular destination for travelers and tourists and provides business for thousands of merchants and vendors.  Akin to the large bazaars of Istanbul and Damascus, one can buy pretty much anything here at a fraction of the price. The only thing that may get annoying is the swarms of people that will inevitably crowd you to hawk their wares, whatever they may be. (Somehow no one could distinguish by my faded tanktop and sandals that I was not in the market for gold and crystal statues or fine imported rugs).

Although prices are most definitely inflated for the waves of tourists that pass through, it is not impossible to find a good deal. Just be sure to hone your haggling skills before you enter. (Luckily I was given some solid advice by a friend who had been living in the city- Whatever the asking price is, immediately demand 1/4th of it. Five minutes of haggling later, you will get it for 1/3 the original price)

(Image via Marsnjak.com)

4. Look Out from Atop the Cairo Tower

Located in the Zamalek district of Cairo and situated on the River Nile, the tower offers a stunning view of the surrounding region and remains an important city landmark. The tower stands taller than the largest of the pyramids, and it’s ornate Pharoanic designs attempt to mimic the patterns of a lotus flower. The top of the tower contains an open air observation deck and a rotating restaurant/ lounge with a view of the city, an ideal place to grab a drink for the night. Just note that during the month of Ramadan no bars or restaurants in the city will handle or permit the sale of alcohol, so plan accordingly.

(Image via EgyptGiftShop.com)

5. Take a Stroll Through Islamic/ Medieval Cairo

Though it houses many of the most notable sites, the area is a sight itself worthy of exploring. Filled with tons of fascinating structures and monuments, Islamic Cairo presents a unique cultural view of centuries of architecture and history as you attempt to navigate the mazelike streets and outdoor bazaars.

Most notable among the sights are the beautiful Al Azhar University -the oldest schools in the entire Middle East, the Ibn Tulun mosque- one of the largest in the world, and the Citadel- a massive Crusades-era fortification constructed under the reign of Salah al-Din (Saladin) himself.

(Image via Peristera.com)

(Lead image via citypictures)

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The city itself boasts of qualities in its civic vision that include being vibrant, attractive and safe — and of being a city that takes unique pride in history. And in West Palm Beach, history is everywhere. Well, needless to say, with plenty of retirement communities and older folks choosing to relocate to a sunnier, easier climate, the amount of fantastic heirlooms you can find at local antique stores is staggering. From full sets of china to antique furniture to silverware, lamps and glasses, there are untold treasures lurking in just about every one of the many antique stores in the area. It will take you several days to go through all of them, so plan accordingly.

With an antique row that features an impressive forty-plus stores, you won’t have to walk far to find hours and hours of entertainment. Further, there are plenty of interesting places to dine, and even hotels among the shopping neighborhoods, so you can plan your entire trip around walking through the many stores. From 17th to 20th century antiques to period pieces and fine art, there is something for everybody in West Palm Beach.

(Image Credit: West Palm Beach Antiques)

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New Orleans has always been a popular travel destination. It’s French-inspired culture makes it a unique place to visit. The city has earned a reputation for beautiful women, free flowing drinks, voodoo, and long, crazy nights. Whether you see this reputation as awesome or notorious, the fact remains that a huge number of people have been visiting New Orleans for decades specifically because of these traits.

All of that changed in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina devastated the city.

Despite New Orleans’s beautiful environment and fun-loving culture, it’s an incredibly impractical place to put a city. New Orleans was a waterlogged area well before Hurricane Katrina. The city is literally sinking. It’s protective marshes are disappearing. The coast threatens to consume every gorgeous building in the French Quarter within decades.

There were a lot of arguments following Katrina about whether people should even bother rebuilding New Orleans. I often sided with those who favored abandonment. My concern has always been that continued environmental destruction will inevitably lead to another event just as deadly as Hurricane Katrina. Rebuilding the city didn’t mean much to me if it was just going to be  knocked down again.

My argument lost and people started rebuilding on the swampy land. Now it seems that rebuilding was the right idea, at least of the time being, because people are returning to New Orleans and loving it more than ever. Previous Travel + Leisure lists ranked New Orleans as the 10th best city in the US and Canada. This year it is ranked as the 7th.

That’s good news for me. I’ll be spending most of next week in New Orleans. That’s something I never thought I’d do after Hurricane Katrina. Apparently the city still has plenty of allure.

You can check out the rest of the World’s Best Awards at the Travel + Leisure website. Print versions of the magazine hit newsstands on July 23.

(Image via: Sigmobile)

Most people have heard of Branson. A former resident and graduate of THE Branson High School, I can proudly state that we love when pop-culture makes fun of us. There are more than a few things that are easy to poke fun at. Yet, I can also proudly state that you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better vacation bang for your buck than Branson, MO.

Sure, the shows are there, and yes, the shows are family friendly. Generally, they lean toward country music, but in the past decade, new revues, gimmicks and comedy has come Branson’s way and it’s safe to say, there’s a little something for everyone.

Living there, I enjoyed the theme park Silver Dollar City, I worked there for a couple of summers and was even present when Andy Williams boisterously proclaimed, “Happy Silver Dollar City!!!” I’ve never quite deciphered the meaning of that, but it was an epic event. If you’re unfamiliar, SDC is a theme park set in the 1880s. Yes, they still do everything as if its the 1880s. Sorta.

To clarify, the roller coaster technology is 21st century, but the blacksmith, candy makers, glass blowers, etc. are legit, hand crafting artisans. Having been all over this great nation and having visited more theme and amusement parks than I can remember, I can easily state: One of the best was in my own back yard.

White Water is another great family attraction of the water-park variety, and it’s located on what is referred to as The Strip. It’s like Las Vegas without all the skin, or illegal immigrants pushing promo cards for classyish-lookin’ “sex-for-money” types. Everything is pretty walkable, and if you’re planning to do a lot of driving, it’s good to grab a local map and check out a few of the traffic relief routes that have been developed over the past 20 years.

There are outlet malls, shops, restaurants of every variety, amusement locales and of course, the Branson Landing, which lies at the Taneycomo Lake front in downtown. I swore I’d never promote this place–several historical favorites were bulldozed to make room for it, but it’s there, so you might as well check it out… That being said, it will never compare to the late Sammy Lane Resort! I’m sorry I can’t send any fellow Road-Trip Renegades that direction.

What I love most about Branson–the great outdoors. Nestled into the Ozarks, there are trees, flowers, wildlife, rivers and some of the most enjoyable lakes you’ll ever have the pleasure of recreating on. You can find more than a few places to rent ski boats, houseboats, wave runners or a pontoon boat from many of the surrounding lake cities. The most popular Lake in the area is Table Rock, and it was the result of the damming of the White River. And what a dam it is.

On the back side of the dam, you’ll find one of the best dam views you can enjoy in the whole dam area, as well as the most river-looking dam lakes you’ll ever encounter: Lake Taneycomo. No relation to Perry Como. If you love to fish, either bait or fly, there are many enjoyable locations to do so.

From Branson to Springfield

Leaving Branson via US-65 North, you’re a whopping 35 – 40 minute from the 3rd largest city in Missouri, Springfield. A straight shot up and down and up and down and up and down a few big Ozark hills and you’ll find yourself rolling up the east side of the city. Springfield is the possessor of Missouri’s largest tourist attraction: Bass Pro Shop. This is THE Bass Pro Shop, folks. The original.

(Technically the original was a little “bait shop” in the corner of a Brown Derby Liquor Store, where Bass Pro founder Johnny Morris (John L. Morris) built his own original bait. It was so popular with visiting tourists heading to the nearby lakes, that he needed to produce a catalog to give the people what they wanted once they returned home.)

Back on track: There are a couple places I have to recommend in Springfield for an evening of “outside the box” entertainment. If you’re just cruising through town, there’s not a better way to spend a few hours: The Moxie Cinema, and 1984.

The Moxie is the area’s only true “Independent Cinema.” The Moxie showcases the low budget, independent films…which inspire filmmakers to make great films–not crap like Twilight. As you’d suspect, The Moxie is independently owned and operated. Not only do they show movies, but they serve real drinks–beer, wine and soda–as well as gourmet popcorn. No, not GOURmet popcorn…GourMET popcorn. Options are flavorful and come in a variety that can be sweet, salty or hot as hades. The Moxie is located in downtown Springfield, and just a quick jaunt from my next push, 1984.

1984. What is it? It’s an 80s arcade. Located in the downtown area, a stone’s throw from Missouri State University’s campus, 1984 offers stellar gaming at prices that even college students can afford. If you miss these games like I miss these games, this is a must-stop. Especially the strategy games, those are the best!

Where to next? I’m thinking the east coast. Perhaps the deep south. Or maybe Montana. So much road…so little time.

(Image via: Localism)

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Rogers creates, among other things, giant works of land art that are visible from space. You can literally walk on his pieces without even knowing that you are disturbing amazing works of art. Quite frankly, they don’t look like much of anything up close. They’re just a bunch of oddly shaped rocks and gold-plated ruins. From a distance, though, the rocks form distinctive shapes and patterns.

Most people view these land sculptures from hot-air balloons. If you had enough cash and the right connections, though, you could actually view them from space.

Rogers most recent land art project has him building giant hieroglyphs around the world. Although some of the hieroglyphs look similar to each other, Rogers creates each one with the local culture in mind. One of the structures in China, for instance, shows a messenger riding a horse. Some of the hieroglyphs, however, are more abstract.

According to Rogers, his works are there to remind people of “what’s gone before and what’s going to be important in the future.” This seems like a rather positive way of looking at it. I always end up thinking about how these objects will be viewed in the future by people who know absolutely nothing about how they got there and what they mean. It highlights how little we know about the past, the present, and the future. But it also celebrates human achievement by bringing together large numbers of people to create works of art that don’t even seem like art when you’re standing right in front of, or on, them.

Rogers’ website currently lists hieroglyphs in Australia, Bolivia, Chile, China, Iceland, India, Israel, Nepal, Slovakia, Sri Lanka, Turkey, and the USA. You can view images from each location at Rogers’ online portfolio.

The Turkish site was recently featured in a profile by CNN corespondent Ivan Watson. Click here to see some really cool pictures from his article.

Rogers also works in smaller disciplines, including bronze works, memorials, and installations made of stone and marble. His CV will make  you feel like the laziest person ever.

(Image via: Andrew Rogers)

Although Beirut has frequently been a site of conflict and casualty (the most recent conflict with Israel was just a few short years ago) the vibrant spirit of the city has yet to be extinguished.  In spite of all the turmoil, or more likely as a result of it, the unrestrained desire to enjoy one’self manifests itself in a variety of ways, and there is entertainment to cater to nearly any scene. Beirut hosts some of the most highly ranked nightclubs in the world and an endless walk of small bars, as well as large scale performances by top name DJ’s and bands, and even the occasional rave. Beirut still manages to evoke a sense of unity amongst the locals in that wherever you may prefer to party, you are living it up to the fulest.

The Adventure

In the short time I spent in the city, I grew determined to experience just what gave Beirut its acclaim and the status of of one of the nightlife capitals. Beirut is home to many of the highest rated clubs in the world, unfortunately the glamour and status of many of these clubs make them exclusive to the point of ridiculousness. One attempt to get into the highly reputable SkyBar ended in disappointment, as nothing would gain us entry, not the dinner reservations that had been booked, not the offer to purchase bottle service, not the friends within, not even the $100 notes offered to the bouncer. Then again, we were hardly surprised, given that this had been ranked the number One club in the world just last year and had a line of beautiful people stretching along the back- at about 10:00 P.M.

Our night continued, however, with a short walk to Gemmayzeh- the district best known for the long walk of shoulder to shoulder bars. We tried to take in as many as we could in a week in Beirut and barely even touched the surface. The range of bars catered to every style, every music, every attire, even every language. One could easily spend nights on end here- but we were on a mission.

In any case we ventured to an equally impressive nightclub, BO18, which in my mind would be nearly impossible to top. Designed by renowned architect Bernard Khoury, BO18 was situated in what looked like essentially just a large parking lot. Upon further inspection we could see that the line was located in a narrow passageway to some stairs, and that the club itself was a large bunker housed stories below the ground. This controversial new club is a large steel structure built on a site of a former refugee camp.  (To many, this conundrum epitomizes the collective attitudes of the city itself- that nothing can break the spirit of Beirut and it’s people though their memories are not forgotten.)

When we finally made it inside we were no less appreciative, as the decor was uniquely artistic and the live DJ spinning deep house beats had the entire floor jumping. And it was just getting started… The club is known as an after-hours spot that continues until 10A.M. Around four we got an unexpected surprise…The roof of the bunker begin to widen as mechanical gears pulled it apart. We were able to witness the light slowly creeping in from the ceiling as the sun began to rise overhead- all while still sipping a Vodka-RedBull ten feet underground.

Did It Live Up to the Hype?

ABSOLUTELY!

Beirut is a spectacle to behold, even if for nothing else than it’s nightlife (though it just so happens it is a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western cultures, languages, and history). Just to be forewarned, however, it is not cheap. I arrived directly after backpacking around Greece and Turkey and was accustomed to the lifestyle of being a bum (sleeping as cheap as possible, eating koftes from the grocery store, walking to avoid a cab – I was actually offered a job in Istanbul drawing in tourists to restaurants but I drew the line when i found they would only pay me in food). Needless to say, I was utterly unprepared for the expenses of Beirut nightlife. I adapted quick, however, and I’m glad I did for it to this day remains one of the most amazing cities to party in.

]]> http://www.adventureworthy.com/2010/07/08/nightlife-around-the-world-2-beirut/feed/ 2 http://www.adventureworthy.com/2010/07/07/daily-travel-links-33/ http://www.adventureworthy.com/2010/07/07/daily-travel-links-33/#comments Thu, 08 Jul 2010 01:00:48 +0000 http://www.adventureworthy.com/?p=2507 Continue reading →]]> Why Luxembourg matters (Gadling)

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1. Wisp Ski Resort – McHenry, Maryland

The Associated Press reports that Maryland’s only ski resort has just added The Flying Squirrel Canopy Tour, a zip line that carries riders over treetops up to 15 meters or so above the ground. The tour costs $39, and riders aged 10 and up must also navigate a rope bridge and a plank bridge.

2. Skyline Eco Adventures – Hawaii & Tennessee

Over a million people have ridden the zip lines at Skyline Eco Adventures, which have been open since 2002. They now have three locations: Haleakala, HI, Ka’anapali, HI and Dollywood, TN. You can feel good zipping through nature, and also feel good about the fact that portion of all sales are donated back to protecting the environment.

3. Captain Zipline Adventure Tours – Salida, Colorado

It’s all about the view with Captain Zipline, which features an exotic high desert landscape. You might catch sight of bears, deer, bighorn sheep, hawks, bald eagles, and more. Plus, there’s the scenic Arkansas River and Colorado Rocky Mountains!

4. Big Sky Resort – Montana

If you like snow, Big Sky Resort is the place to try a zipline. The resort offers skiing, snowboarding and tubing in addition to the opportunity to fly 525 feet through the Moose Tracks forest. Riders simply need to be at least 3 feet tall and 45lbs for a $59 ride.

5.  Arenal Volcano Zip Line – Costa Rica

Go exotic with a zip line tour in Northern Costa Rica! The zip line is nearly half a mile long, offering a narrow path through the trees to get the real canopy experience. Then, near the end of the zip line you get a great shot at the Arenal Lake and the Arenal Volcano.

Photo: Zipline.com