Here are some of my favorite tv shows that celebrate the city where their plot takes place.

Paris

The saccharinely enjoyable – Emily in Paris

The Plot: a young American from Chicago makes a surprising relocation to Paris as part of her job at an advertising agency. The cultural collision between her world and the Parisian way of life creates dilemmas in her work life, friendships, and love life.

Genre: Romantic comedy.

Created by Darren Starr, the man who brought Sex and the City to our screens, Emily in Paris, presents a photogenic Paris from an American viewpoint. Expect heavy doses of the classically romantic Paris, combined with an impressive over the top fashion display by the main character, Emily.
Emily in Paris is pure escapism with an unrealistic plot line.

The immediate simile that comes to mind is a pint of Ben & Jerry’s. The sugary clichés are slightly nauseating, yet once you start devouring them, it’s just impossible to stop.

Number of seasons: 1. Second season is scheduled to follow.

The wittily elegant: Call My Agent! (Dix pour cent)

The plot: the founder of a leading Parisian talent agency leaves its agents to deal with absurd circumstances in the French cultural world. The series follows the agents’ efforts to save the agency’s future, whilst juggling business and artistic demands, as well as their personal lives.

Genre: satirical comedy.

Contrary to “Emily in Paris” Call My Agent’s Paris is seen through more authentic chique French eyes.

The love for French culture is clear in Call My Agent! It pays homage to French actors and the French film and television world. Each episode features a guest appearance by a real leading French actor, playing themselves. Jean Reno, Juliette Binoche, Isabelle Huppert and Béatrice Dalle (“Betty Blue” of yesteryear) are included. Get ready for superb acting, and a surprising comical script.

Number of seasons: 4

Sydney

The absurd and naughty: Rake

The plot: Cleaver Greene, is a brilliant lawyer with self-destructive instincts and a tendency for addiction, who tends to take on “lost” criminal cases of guilty clients that no one else is willing to.

Genre: Comical drama

I have not yet visited Australia, and until I do, I take solace in watching the suspenseful and amusing Rake – set in Sydney.

If you love a complex Bad Boy character, and unexpected plot twists, Rake is the show for you.
Richard Roxburgh (who also co-created the series) who plays the lead character has a heavy Australian accent, and a voice that sometimes rises to oddly high tones. And yet, I found him charismatic in a way that in my opinion “makes” the whole series. I suppose there’s no point denying that I developed a slight crush on Cleaver / Richard?

A comedic legal drama, is a genre we are all familiar with, ever since the days of Alley McBeal. But the lovable-jerk Rake, takes things to a fresh, witty, and warm direction.
The show will give you a peek into homes of varied socio-economic classes in Sydney, as well as a parodic display of Australian politics and the legal system.

Number of seasons: 5

The eye-catchingly escapist: Instant Hotel

Diverse pairs of homeowners compete for the title of “Best Instant Hotel”. The teams stay at each other’s homes, which have been transformed into rental properties throughout Australia. They rate each other’s hosting experience until the winner is announced.

Genre: reality-lifestyle.

The show will take you to some of the most beautiful destinations across Australia. From the lesser-known Coober Pedy, with its “Mad Max” like landscapes, to Sydney’s well known – Bondi Beach.
Instant Hotel will introduce you to varied lifestyles in the continent. Humble participants who rent out their river boat, and an affluent couple who dwell in a jaw dropping decadent mansion in the heart of rainforest are just a few.

Number of seasons: 2

New York

The lighthearted urban fantasy: Younger

The Plot: A divorced housewife in her forties with no work experience is forced to pretend she is 26 in order to get a job at a publishing house.

Genre: Romantic comedy

Yet another fun and addictive series by Darren Starr, about the fashionable New York millennial generation. Younger has the charm of the concept of the film Big, except that here the main character Lisa pretends to be younger than her years.
The show draws you into the chaotic pace of life in Manhattan where Lisa works, and the hipster lifestyle of Brooklyn where she lives.

Though feather-light in tone, Younger must be credited for dealing with relevant issues that other popular series with a leading female protagonist often tend to disregard. Such as Agism towards women in the workplace and in marital dynamics. What a pity it contradictorily depicts Lisa’s boss, as a desperate, pitiful single older woman. Perhaps as a caution about what could happen to women if Lord forbid, they don’t find a partner and become addicted to their career to fulfill a so-called void in their lives.

Number of seasons: 7

The one with the friends: Friends

Even if you’re not a nineties kid, you can probably relate to the iconic comedy about the six closest friends in Manhattan of the 90s and 2000s.
The series, (actually filmed in Los Angeles, but let’s not be petty) captures the feel of New York, with its landmark locations.

There is the Central Perk Café, which the group occupied for hours on end, and the apartment building where all the members lived at one time or another in the West Village. Rachel works at Bloomingdales and the friends play baseball in Central Park. Monica and Chandler get engaged at the Plaza Hotel and in the opening song the friends dance in a fountain inspired by the Pulitzer Fountain.

Genre: Sitcom (duhh)

Number of seasons: 10 (I know!)

Know of other shows that take place in urban destinations abroad that are worth watching? Tell me, so I can enjoy them too

You may also be interested in: books that will make you want to travel the world.

The post Ultimate TV shows that will take you to Paris, Sydney and New York appeared first on Adiseesworld.

I asked people who volunteered around the world, to share their most memorable experiences and challenges, as well as their recommendations on what to take into account, if you ever consider volunteering abroad.

It unfolds that, Lucy had to rub a Tapir in sunscreen to protect it from sunburn in the middle of the jungle in Costa Rica. She only had the fireflies to guide her muddy path back to her accommodation in the pitch black nights.

Carley volunteered in Ecuador with a community development and education nonprofit. She ended up staying for an extra year and met her husband there.

Thea spent hours in the tropical weather sealing roofs of the homes of people struck by a hurricane in Puerto Rico.

So why did  they go to all this effort, and how has it changed their lives?

This is what they had to say when I asked them.

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“I definitely had magical moments, special, funny and fun experiences…  With all the challenges, it was still one of the most special and amazing experiences I hever had in my life!” (Lucy Kleinerman, Israel)

Volunteering with wildlife in Costa Rica

Lucy Kleinerman of Colibri Art volunteered at a number of projects in Costa Rica, including NATUWA Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Shelter, during her trip to Central America.

Name of Organization: Natuwa, Costa Rica

What the volunteering entails: care for wild animals.

Does it cost money to volunteer? Yes. Food and accommodation are provided in return.

What led me to volunteer:

I was at the end of a period in my life, where I felt I needed to take a break, almost as much as the air I breathed.

I felt that I needed to get back to myself. The adventures, and the hobbies I’d neglected, and back to the “real” me. I was looking for inspiration, interest and to being curious again.

I traveled without a specific plan in mind. I just went traveling.

Things I learned from her volunteering experience:

I learned a lot about animals and nature. About the damage humans do when they use wild animals as tourist attractions, or as pets.

I learned how when those people are fed up with the wild animals, they are thrown away and can no longer survive on their own.
I learned about the hard work and investment that caring for animals and their environment requires of us. It was kind of boot-camp style training.

I worked hard. I got up every morning for something new and unfamiliar. And this period empowered me. It gave me knowledge and an opportunity to get to know myself. I found out how I deal with unfamiliar challenges and situations.

The center I volunteered at, NATUWA is located in the midst of a rural area, where even the bus that goes there was an out-of-this-world experience from me. One that is filled with locals carrying huge bags of rice, potatoes and a variety of products.

The center houses amazing animals. Huge Ara Macaw parrots fly everywhere. There are sloths, jaguars, monkeys, tapirs and more.

It’s a stunning place for animal and wildlife lovers.

The place is impressive in terms of the incredible wildlife, and the team workers that care for and rehabilitate the animals as much as possible.

The local staff is extremely dedicated. For example: during food preparation for the animals, we had to make sure that everything was as precise and accurate as possible. Every morning we would sort loads of macadamia nuts, so that lord forbids, no parrot would get rotten nut!

I felt they were extremely attentive, caring and hardworking for the sake of the animals, with special kudos going to the manager of the place, Rodolfo. I was particularly impressed by the manager Rodolfo, who does everything he can for the animals, and is a very kind and caring person.

Take note of the moral ethics and consider the costs of volunteering

As adorable as the animals are, it is important to understand that the volunteers are only there to help, and not to play with the animals! It is completely forbidden. The animals are wild, and the purpose is to rehabilitate them so that they can be released back to the wild, and survive without being dependent on humans.

It should be noted that in order to volunteer, you have to pay money for the place (you get accommodation and food). And thanks to the money you pay, the place can continue to function, care for and rescue more animals.

Unforgettable experiences:

There were quite a few. Like the time I rubbed sunscreen over a Tapir, so it would not burn in the sun. When masses of huge parrots were flying around me, trying to grab their food.  And when fireflies were glowing during the night, illuminating my path in the complete darkness.

Challenges encountered during the volunteering:

Knowing very little Spanish could cause misunderstandings, which made working with the local staff difficult sometimes.

The place is located in the middle of nature. You feel that you are in the jungle, and the living conditions are rudimentary.

When it gets dark (and it gets dark early), there’s no lighting on the way to the residence. If you don’t have a flashlight, it is really a challenge to get around the pitch black darkness, accompanied by the animal sounds in the background.

You can easily get lost, and when it rains you just have to wade your way through the mud, I actually slid in the mud.

You don’t always know who you will end up volunteering with. You could get lucky and meet amazing people and have a great time with them. Or you may be placed with volunteers that are difficult to socialize with.

Daily chores during volunteering:

We helped the place run in various areas of activity. There is always a lot of work to do. Whether it is feeding the animals, or keeping the place clean.

Volunteering tasks actually start at six in the morning. There are breaks, but the work can be physically demanding, at times discouraging but also fascinating and special.

In the morning, you prepare and give the animals food and water. Later in the day the tasks can change. Each staff member is responsible for something else, and the volunteers assist them. There are maintenance and cleaning jobs like: cleaning paths and animal cages, clearing leaves, painting fences and helping with animal care.

Those who have been there for a long time and know enough about the place can also guide tours.

Would I recommend to other people to volunteer abroad?

Absolutely! It’s a very special experience. Just being in this extraordinary place, is truly unique.

Types of people the volunteering abroad experience suits:

People who are givers. Those who are looking to contribute to others and have special experiences that they would not experience as regular tourists.

Volunteering in a foreign country can expose you to other cultures and customs and can allow you to meet people from all over the world and form interesting friendships!

Do your research in advance

I would say that it’s important to choose the volunteering that suits you personally. Some people won’t enjoy what I did, and the other way around. There is a variety of programs you can take part in. From helping underprivileged children to teaching English. The possibilities are almost endless!

By the way, your truly, the owner of the blog you are now reading (Adi Ben Ezer) has also volunteered with animals in Costa Rica, in a different organization to NATUWA. You can read about my experience of volunteering in Costa Rica here.

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“Volunteering abroad taught me so much about how similar people are – day-to-day life may look different for people around the world, but at the heart of the matter, we’re all the same and want to same things. It made me much more empathetic to those close to me and far away.” (Carley Rojas Avila, U.S.A.)

Volunteering in Ecuador: empowering local communities

Carley Rojas Avila, owner of Home to Havana travel and digital nomad resources, originally from the US, volunteered in local communities empowerment projects in Ecuador. She met her now husband there.

 

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Carley and her husband Jose’

Name of Organization: Manna Project International (Central America)

What the volunteering entails: teaching English and supporting local community centers for underprivileged populations.

Does it cost money to volunteer? Yes. Food, accommodation and emergency insurance are provided in return.

About Carley’s volunteering experience abroad:

After graduating from university, I headed to Quito, Ecuador to volunteer for a year with Manna Project International for what would be a life-changing year of volunteering.

I also met my husband while volunteering abroad! Opening myself up to new experiences opened my horizons and led me to where I am now, continuing to share with others about the value of travel and cultural exchange.

My reasons for volunteering:

I had studied abroad in college in Buenos Aires, Argentina and was able to travel extensively in Latin America before and during my semester abroad. I knew I wanted to work abroad after graduating from college, and having visited Ecuador during my travels, I knew it was a place I wanted to experience even more.

What my volunteering included:

As a volunteer, I worked in guiding and implementing a variety of the organization’s programs. I worked on organizing and operating the local community center and library, including growing its impact, as well as working on implementing programs like English classes for children and adults, small business development classes for would-be entrepreneurs, and partnerships with local schools.

Local children in an A Manna Project English teaching class

Length of volunteering:

I volunteered for one year! I stayed and worked with the same organization in a paid position for an additional year after my volunteer placement ended.

What I learned from the experience:

Volunteering and living abroad for two years taught me so much about myself, and showed me that I can thrive anywhere I am… Living just outside of Quito, I got to know the best things to do off the beaten path in Quito really beginning to feel at home in a place that was foreign to me. There is so much to see in Quito, and throughout Ecuador, that just getting to know and experience this incredible country for an extended period of time was a life-changing experience.

Things I found challenging about the volunteering:

One of the challenges that I encountered was that I needed to constantly push myself outside of my comfort zone while there. Even when volunteering abroad, you won’t just suddenly master a new language, understand all local customs, and make meaningful relationships unless you work at it.

Working in an organization with many other volunteers from outside of Ecuador, it was easy to form relationships with them rather than spending time in the community with Ecuadorians and forming local relationships.

However, reaching outside of my comfort zone and spending time in the community was consistently the most meaningful part of my experience.

Would I recommend volunteering abroad to others?

I would absolutely recommend volunteering abroad to others!

Even if you just have a short period to time to volunteer, it can be a fantastic way to see a new part of the world while giving back to communities in need. Make sure that you have a strong understanding of the community impact of the organization and its’ purpose, as not all volunteer organizations make the impact they claim to.

Whom it is suitable for:

Volunteering abroad in college or after college is often common, and it seems to be easiest to find volunteer placements for volunteers in this age range. However, there are ways to get involved as a professional as well, and volunteering professional skills can be a way to make significant impact in an organization and the community it serves.

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“Honestly it’s always the people who touch me the most when I volunteered. I love the camaraderie with my fellow volunteers and how welcoming the local communities are despite all the hardships they have been through. Every meal prepared by a local homeowner or a small gift given as a gesture of appreciation is a cherished memory.” (Thea Wingert, Canada)

Volunteering in Puerto Rico: supporting victims of the 2017 Hurricane Maria

Thea Wingert from Alberta, Canada volunteered with her husband in Haiti and Puerto Rico to support victims and natural disasters.

Name of Organization: All Hands and Hearts

What the volunteering entails: Rehabilitation of homes of people affected by natural disasters around the world.

Does it cost money to volunteer? No. Free residence accommodation provided. Meals provided on days of volunteering.

About the volunteering:

The organization we volunteered with, All Hands and Hearts partners with local communities to put volunteers to work helping out people who are suffering in the wake of natural disasters. I wanted to volunteer with them to offer support to victims of the 2010 Haiti earthquake and 2017 Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico.

What the volunteering involved:

All Hands and Hearts volunteers are put to work in a variety of ways depending on what the local community needs the most.

In Haiti for example, most people worked at removing rubble from people’s crumbled homes so that they could be given a transitional shelter. Whereas in Puerto Rico, many volunteers worked at repairing and resealing hurricane-damaged roofs, windows, and doors, while others were put to work doing mold abatement.

Length of volunteering:

During each stint, I volunteered for a two-week period but people may volunteer for longer or shorter lengths of time depending on what the project’s needs are.

What I learnt from the experience:

That there is joy and learning to be experienced in helping others. Even though volunteers are working in terrible circumstances, such as amid earthquake debris or in a moldy, water-damaged home, they find a way to make the work fun and form meaningful relationships with the locals they’re helping.

The challenges of my volunteering:

The work can be very physical and hard on the body, especially when it’s in the tropical heat.

Would I recommend volunteering abroad to others?

Absolutely, it’s a great way to help people in need and make some new friends.

Whom it is suitable for:

The beauty of volunteering with All Hands and Hearts is that it’s suitable for almost anyone!

People who are skilled in construction can be put to work building schools, while those who have fewer technical skills can be put to work doing other tasks such as clearing rubble, painting, and repairing roofs.

Read more about the adventures of Thea and her partner Philip in The Zen Travelers blog.

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“I learned not to be afraid of difficulties, not to idealize immigration and other countries, work with people from different cultures, religions, and backgrounds in foreign languages, and enjoy volunteering and helping.” (Sasha Naslin, Moldova)

Sasha Naslin from Moldova, of The Alternative Travel Guide volunteered at the European Voluntary Service  & European Movement in Belgium

 

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Sasha Naslin

Name of Organization: European Voluntary Service

What the volunteering entails: The organization allows people aged 18-30 to volunteer and live in Europe for a period of up to 12 months in order to gain experience in non-formal education and cultural exchange projects.

Does it cost money to volunteer? No. The organization funds the costs of board, accommodation and travel.

What led me to volunteer there:

Before this volunteering project, I was active in the NGO sector and even created a youth organization. I discovered this international volunteer project and wanted to become part of this program to live in a new country for some time and at the same time do something useful.

What I did during the volunteering:

Helping to organize youth, social, educational, and cultural projects.

How long I volunteered for:

9 months

What the volunteering experience taught me:

This volunteer project taught me how to adapt to new conditions and a new country. After this 9-month experience in Belgium, I lived in several more countries.

I learned not to be afraid of difficulties, not to idealize immigration and other countries, work with people from different cultures, religions, and backgrounds in foreign languages, and enjoy volunteering and helping.

What was the most unforgettable experience you had there?

The most valuable experience was living in a new country, in a special country like Belgium. Because Belgium, and especially Brussels, where I lived, are very international and multicultural.

Interacting and working with people from the most diverse backgrounds has positively affected me. We have organized youth projects and cultural events. It was an exciting and invaluable experience. In addition, I learned a lot about Europe, visited all the European institutions, and even met Herman Van Rompuy, the first permanent President of the European Council.

Thing I found more challenging during the experience:

The main difficulty for me was the language barrier. My French wasn’t good enough to work, write emails, answer phone calls, and organize events and conferences.

Besides, in Belgium, the second official language is Dutch, which I had at zero levels. In the office, my colleagues spoke two languages, so I dropped out of conversations in Dutch. But since I took language courses and practiced a lot, my French quickly improved, and I picked up some Dutch.

In conclusion:

I’d like to thank to Lucy, Carley and Thea for sharing their international volunteering experiences ! I appreciate their willingness to divulge both the positive experiences, as well as the less than glamorous challenges. It is heart warming to find out that such positive people like them exist out there.

Volunteering abroad is not for everyone. It can involve rudimentary conditions, and exhausting, challenging, less than glorious mundane tasks. But at the same time, if you chose a program that is right for you, as you can see from the experiences shared by the volunteers in this post, it can definitely be a worthwhile life changing experience.

It is also a great way to make a difference and experience self development. It can be an opportunity to learn about local cultures and customs, in ways you cannot experience as a “regular” tourist.

Side note: during the times of Covid please consider travel guidelines to keep safe and healthy. Until the pandemic is under control, if you would like to volunteer online from your home, here are some suggestions.

Have you volunteered abroad? If so, how was the experience for you? Let me know

The post Life changing volunteering experiences abroad appeared first on Adiseesworld.

Here are the details on the best accommodation options you should consider booking for your next trip to the south of Israel:

1. Naot Farm, the Negev Desert

Looking for accommodation with a lovely hilly desert landscape in a farm-complex that pays homage to the desert? You’ve come to the right place.

Naot is a family owned goat farm, that was ecologically designed by the owners with a mix of simplicity, fun and intelligence.

Accommodation options:

Alternative accommodation:

Recycled Concrete Pipes Capsule Hotel

In the “Tzavta” (common chillout) area you can stay in recycled cement tubes outdoor Capsule Hotel rooms.

These are huge concrete pipes that have been given new life as bedrooms. The Tsvta complex includes common facilities from recycled materials. There are seats, outdoor showers, hammocks, small shallow little pool to dip your feet it and bonfire. For those who suffer from claustrophobia, lodging in these pipe conversions is less recommended.

Cabins:

If you don’t want to sleep in the pipe conversions, you can stay at the cabins. There are double and family cabins with hill views, shallow pool and fresh herbs outside for the guests’ use. I didn’t get to stay in the cabins, but they look great.

Also available on the farm:

Group tours of the farm and a shop selling cheeses produced from the farm’s goats’ milk. A fully equipped shared dining area and kitchen with free goat’s milk, books and board games, and an enchanting relaxed atmosphere.

Bonus:

Fresh (basic) continental breakfast included in the price. Great location to take photos that people will not be able to ignore, for Instagram :)

Price range: The tubes are extremely reasonably priced. The cabins are priced at medium to high prices.

What to do in the surroundings: coffee and delicious cheese-based dishes produced on site at the nearby Kornmehl Farm Restaurant; A visit to Ben Gurion’s hut in Sde Boker.

Naot Farm Website

2. Exclusive luxury blending into breathtaking scenery: Beresheet Hotel

If you want to indulge in one of the most special places to stay in the south of Israel, if not in the whole country , Beresheet Hotel is the place you can’t miss. Once the Corona epidemic is behind us (hopefully soon), try this wonderful hotel that aims to leave a minimal footprint on its surroundings.

The five-star Superior hotel from the Isrotel hotel chain, is a place full of relaxation that blends into the magnificent landscape of the biggest crater in the world, Ramon Crater.

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Its’ low fences allow the indigenous ibexes to graze uninterruptedly. The hotel’s construction places high importance on the use of local materials. The low construction gives respect to and blends with the local landscape. It is made up of mainly of wood, stone and glass materials.

Accommodation options:

From standard 40 m² (430 sq. ft.) rooms with garden space, to various cottages, including the 200 m² (430 sq. ft.) Presidential Suite with crater views and an attached pool. There are dozens of private pools adjacent to the hotel’s rooms.

Bonus:

An infinity pool with a breath taking cliff-edge view of the Ramon Crater; Fine dining, and Israeli art with desert related elements in the public spaces

What to do nearby:

Visit the Alpaca Farm; wander through creative workshops and galleries in the city’s Perfume Roads District; watch the stars and meteors on non-light polluted summer nights.

Price range:

Expensive, but in my personal experience worth every penny if you have the budget.

Beresheet Mitzpe Ramon Website

3. Bedouin style experience: Kfar Hanokdim, the Negev Desert

Looking for accommodation that is also an experience that you, your friends or children won’t soon forget?

Try Kfar Hanokdim. Between Arad and Masada, you’ll find a green oasis in the middle of an arid landscape, featuring a picturesque artsy resort village, that pays homage to the desert and Bedouin culture..

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What’s ecological here?

The village combines local materials in its construction. There are buildings built with local stone, and tent fabrics are woven from goat’s wool. There are ecological desert workshops held in the village.

Accommodation options:

A wide range of accommodation options. Guest rooms in the small “desert hotel”, travelers rooms, stone huts, huge Bedouin tents for groups or large families, sheds, caravans and more.

It should be noted that although the village is enormous, there is a sense of privacy, due to the division into many areas and nice corners scattered around.

This is a fantastic place for group stays. I spent an amazing time here with my extended family the day after my brother’s wedding. It was a bonding experience I’m sure non of us will forget, that you cannot get in other types of accommodations.

Bonus:

Cool attractions for kids and adults: night trips with ultraviolet flash lights to find scorpions, local Bedouin hospitality in the nearby village, bonfires and meteor shower gazing during the summer.

Places of interest nearby:

Masada National Park, Tzfira Pool and marked hiking trails around the village.

As I mentioned, I absolutely love Kfar Hanokdim,. However, due to my respect for animal rights, I was less than enthusiastic about the camel rides operated by the resort. Nevertheless, I have been informed that they were in the process of replacing the trips by feeding the camels.

Price range: low-medium. There is an option for every pocket.

Kfar Hanokdim website

4. Sleeper bus in Ezuz: Zimmerbus

About two miles from the Egyptian border, and about 7.5 miles from Nitzana is the isolated community of Ezuz. The place is inhabited by a handful of local families who make a living mostly from tourism and organic produce.

I got to stay in Ezuz in another Zimmer, and was taken aback by the almost surreal atmosphere in Ezuz. Although I haven’t yet stayed in this particular Zimmerbus, it has caught my attention online. The place is made up of 3 “retired” buses converted into accommodation units.

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Accommodation options:

Sleeping in a double or a family units.

Bonus:

The artists’ houses in the village where you can take a peek at handmade ceramics and unique jewelry.

Places of interest and attractions nearby:

Cycling routes around the village, ancient archaeological remains a few minutes from the Ezuz, and Nitzana Cave. Hamukei-Nitzana: curvy white natural earth formations: a great playground for children at heart and photographers.

Price level: Medium.

Zimmerbus website

Do you have any recommendations for other exceptional environmental accommodations I didn’t mention in the post?  Tell me in the comments below.

You might also be interested to read about Ecotourism: 7 easy eco-friendly travel tips

The post Top ecofriendly unique places to stay in south of Israel appeared first on Adiseesworld.

In recent years it seems that the new “trend” of ecotourism has become more and more prevalent. Ecotourism may be seen as a contemporary fashion, but awareness of the environmental implications of our actions is a necessity if we are to continue living here and enjoying everything we enjoy today.

My name is Alexandra and I own the The Golden Whale Blog. The purpose of the blog is to provide tools and inspiration to preserve the environment and enjoy the world, without giving up the high standard of living we have become accustomed to. I am happy to take part in a guest post on Adi’s blog, especially because ecotourism is an area I have not yet had a chance to explore in my environmental journey (especially in light of the period) and this is a great opportunity to start.

Why should we even care about ecotourism?

Before we even talk about ecotourism, it is important that we understand, in a nutshell, the significance of our lives on the planet and our dependency on its condition.

“A mistake is to think that nature will be extinct;  it will simply change its face and turn our world into a difficult and estranged environment, making it difficult for us to survive in it” (Amir Balaban).

We sometimes tend to think that the extinction of one species or another in the rainforest is a distant matter (maybe less so, if you’re travelling in these destinations) that doesn’t concern us.

In fact, nature and us are in an endless intertwined relationship, whereby we our position in it, is of a greater dependency. If we ignore the consequences of our actions, global warming will continue increase, natural disasters will become more frequent, entire cities will flooded and disappear below sea level. Instead of pastoral landscapes and fascinating animals we will see mountains of debris and plastic everywhere, global epidemics will rise up more often… You get it the picture.

It may very well be that we will adapt and survive in the newly formed conditions. But as people who enjoy traveling and experiencing the world as it is today, would we want to live in a vastly different world? Would we like to tell our children about a world that no longer exists and the only ones we can blame are ourselves?

I’m sure we do not.

On the other hand, as an environmental educator, I think that staying at home is not a solution. On the contrary, it’s harmful. It is essential to get acquainted with the world around us, to experience the wonders of nature. Emotion-inducing experiences create awareness and motivation to preserve nature.

And that’s why we’re here, so let’s talk.

Ecotourism

As someone who likes to travel very much and is particularly enthusiastic about international travel and urban destinations, it was especially challenging for me to study the subject and understand the magnitude of the impact of my trips on the environment.

Tourism, in its core, is harmful to the environment. The amount of fuel we consume when we travel is much higher than during our daily routine (flights, and travels between destinations) and subsequently lead to more greenhouse gas emissions. Most of us consume a lot more on trips, whether during sales at major overseas clothing chains, souvenirs for kids, friends, uncles… Eating in restaurants, even shopping in advance for the trip like trekking gear or small bottles for toiletry products. All of these add up to the footprint of our very presence. Every action we take, on the individual level has implications for our environment, so let’s make sure the positive impact outweighs the negative.

How do we do this? Ecotourism

Ecotourism doesn’t have a single definition. This is because of the multitude of players and stakeholders involved in trying to create a definition. I prefer to treat ecotourism as a scale based on three fundamental principles: conservation, growth and justice. The total conscious actions we take determines our position on the scale.

Here are some ways to make our next trip or vacation (finger crossed for the next one to take place soon) more environmental:

1.  Opting for a trip/vacation in nature

As an urban landscape enthusiast, this was a the most challenging tip for me. In the world we live in, the importance of things is measured by the income they generate. Therefore, tourism in natural areas paradoxically can preservation of these areas.

2. Doing your homework

Learn about the destination before travelling to it. Find out about its characteristics and the local customs that are acceptable and respected in it. This is especially true of “under developed” destinations. Travel out of humility, don’t feel and act like the “Modern Westerners” who can buy the whole world.

3. Choosing attractions carefully

Choose attractions that contribute to your knowledge and familiarity with the natural environment and local culture. Think about what’s behind one attraction or another. Ask yourself: is the attraction based on the three principles of conservation, growth and justice?

Does the attraction harm or exploit nature or humans that occupy it? Does the attraction disturb the balance of nature? For example, places that feed wildlife in order to attract it for tourism purposes. Prefer a place that limit the number of tourists and regulate the way you visit. Visit and support conservation and breeding farms.

4. Strengthening the local economy

Shopping? Buying clothes? Souvenirs? Or even stopping over for lunch? Prefer to buy from local businesses instead of the chains stores.

5. Taking care of cleanliness

Everywhere you go for a walk, try to ensure you take a bag with and collect trash you encounter along the way. Choose the level of effort you want to put into contributing to the environment, without having it ruining your vacation.

6. Hotel / accommodation behavior

Tourism consumes massive amounts of water. Why? Because when the water bill doesn’t have our name on it, we celebrate.

I’m not saying take all the fun out of vacation, but for instance, just like at home, towels don’t go out of use after one shower. When you’re done using it, hang the towel to dry in the shower or room and don’t rush to throw it on the floor because you know they’ll bring you a new morning. You can also skip the soaps and other hotel mini toiletries and make do with the ones you brought from home. In general, try to avoid products sold in small disposable bottles unless they are going to serve you for years to come.

7. Advanced tip – volunteering on ecological farms

Want to take up your vacation game a few notches environmentally? Look for ecological farms in your destination where you can volunteer.

FEE organization, Blue Flag and Green Key eco lables

The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) runs a number of programs, including the Blue Flag a Green Key programs. The operator on behalf of FEE programs in Israel is Ecoocean.

The Blue Flag is an international ecological standard label, awarded annually to beaches that meet a long list of sustainability promoting criteria, maintaining sea water quality, accessibility to different populations and environmental education.

Both the travel apps and the beach websites have the blue flag mark, as well as the program’s website. ‘Green Key’ is an international ecological quality label, awarded to hotels and tourist sites, such as campsites, parks, restaurants and attractions, that operate in line with environmental responsibility and meet a long list of criteria. You can find a map with sites that are Green Key eco-labeled here.

Other useful sites:

UICN (International Union for Conservation of Nature)

The International Ecotourism Society

Responsible Travel a super-useful site for putting together a perfect eco-vacation.

Ecotourism Israel

As we said at the beginning of the post, ecotourism is a scale and we can easily move up the scale by taking simple that do not require a huge effort from us.

Did you find out anything new that made you more aware in this post? Congratulations, you just made the first move.

So what are your plans for the next eco-vacation?

Yours,

Alexandra

You might also be interested in reading about Volunteering at an animal rescue center in Costa Rica.

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Authentic Egyptian breads date back thousands of years ago, and are still popular today.

Egyptian native Abanoub Botros, an avid foodie, originally from Alexandria, shares his favorite Egyptian bread recipes.

BREAD OF THE SUN (Lesh elshamsy)

About the dish:

Lesh elshamsy, or “Bread of the Sun”, is the most popular staple bread in Upper Egypt today.

However, it is depicted on ancient tomb wall inscriptions, and is considered to have first been prepared in ancient Egypt circa 7,000 BC.

It was the main bread on table of food, as well as an offering to gods. It was also placed with the mummies in their tombs, in accordance with the ancient Egyptian belief in the afterlife.

Ancient Egyptians used the bread to denote social class distinctions:
High-level bread was made out of wheat flour; Mid-level bread was prepared with barley flour. The Poor man’s brown bread was made out of wild cereal flour.

In order to make Bread of the Sun, you need to follow the six steps below carefully, and to be patient.

Ingredients:

1 kg wheat flour
2 cups warm water
1/4 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon spoon salt
50-grams yeast

Preparation Instructions

1. Place the yeast in a small pot, add flour and warm water, and mix together by hand until the mixture turns liquid.
   Cover the pot well and leave to stand until morning.
2. Keep kneading the dough again, until you feel it is ready.
3. Cut the dough into small balls carefully, ensuring all pieces are equal in size.
4. Spread flour on top of a wooden disc, and place the small balls on top carefully.
5. Leave it under direct sun to rest for half an hour.
6. Finally, Egyptians use a palm leaf to make the bread circular and write “11” on top of it to signify the god of the sun, Ra. Alternatively, make any shape of your liking on top.

Enjoy!

EGYPTIAN FATTEER (Meshaltet) Bread

About the dish:

Fatter (Meshaltet) Bread is one of the most popular breads in Egypt. Around the world, it is known as “French bread”, but in fact it dates back to ancient Egypt.

In Upper Egypt, people prepare it with various fillings, either savory, or sweet. In Alexandria or Cairo, it is filled with meat, cheese, or jam and sweets.

In some regions of the country, it has no filling, but it is still delicious (and cheap!).

Ingredients:

500 grams wheat flour
1.5 cups of water
Half a teaspoon of sugar
Half a teaspoon of salt
Any filling of your choice
Oil

Preparation Instructions

1. Mix all ingredients together until you feel the dough has turned into one big soft ball.
   Leave it for 30 minus to relax.
2. Cutting it into small balls, paint it with oil or fat, then leave the small balls for another 30 minutes to relax.
3. Knead each ball, roll it out spreading it out as much as possible.
4. Place each rolled out ball on top of the previous one. After packing five of them, place whatever filling you like inside.
5. After you finish stacking 10 rolled out balls, try to roll out the one piece to stretch it around, and then paint the top of it with oil, so that it will turn crispy.
6. Beak in oven for 20 to 25 minutes at 200-250 degrees, and check if ready.

Enjoy!

 

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EGYPTIAN BREAD STUFFED WITH MINCED MEAT (Hawawshi, or Hewish)

“Hewish” traditional Egyptian bread is extremely popular in Egypt, and specifically in Alexandria. It is a type of pita bread filled with minced meat, pepper, onions, sometimes hot pepper.

Ingredients for the pita bread:

3 cups of milk slightly warmed up. Be careful, “just” warm.
50-grams yeast.
1-teaspoon sugar.
1 kg. flour
If you would like to add extra spiciness, add a teaspoon of oregano.

Ingredients for the filling:

350 to 500 gram of minced meat, preferably fatty beef.
2 onions chopped as small as possible.
Add as much parsley as possible, according to your liking.
Salt, black pepper, spicy pepper, ginger, cumin, according to your preference.

Instructions

For the filling:
In order for the flavors to be absorbed, prepare and mix the filling a day before preparing the bread, and leave covered in the fridge.

For the dough:

1. Mix all ingredients together until bubbles appear, and then leave the mixture for 20 to 30 minutes to expand.
   Add 350-500 grams of wheat flour, cover the dough, and leave covered for 15 minutes.
2. Cut the dough into two parts, roll the dough out into two circles. Place the meat in the center, on top of one circle, place to second dough circle on top and close the edges. The result should look like a pita bread shape. Careful not to press it too hard so that you do not break or tear it.
3. Bake in oven for 25 to 30 minutes at 200-250 degrees Celsius.

 

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Enjoy!

Fancy trying out more recipes from around the world? Try Toffee Arepa from Latin America.

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Vicki Gurstein, shares one of her favorite Latin recipes – Toffee Arepa.

I encountered Arepa for the first time in Medellin, Colombia, during my trip to Central and South America.

Credit: Vicky Gorshtein

Arepa is a type of flat bread made from corn flour. In Latin America, it is a typical dish found on almost any table. It is customary to eat with a variety of fillings. Both savory and sweet.

Vicki tells a little bit about herself, sharing her occupation with us, and of course her appetizing Toffee Arepa recipe:

Vicki Gurstein, photography: Shai and Bilder

Nice to meet you, Vicki Gorshtein, I am a blogger who also  creates and teaches Latin food cooking workshops.

I help my clients and readers to be creative in the kitchen and to get to know new international cooking through my my workshops, as well as through the recipes in my blog.

My cooking workshops are my second career, in which I have transformed my love of cooking and baking into my profession.

My delicious blog has everything you want to know about the Latin cuisine. Some spices and use of special raw materials, influences of different countries on the Latin cuisine, and of course lots of classic recipes, some well known, and others that are  less familiar.

All recipes are adapted to the Israeli kitchen, and with raw materials that can be found in Israel. In addition you will find on my blog, stories and travel itineraries about places we traveled in, in South America. For example we’ve been to Pucón and the Atacama Desert in Chile, Bariloche and Buenos Aires in Argentina, Thailand, and of coarse, Israel.

So how to prepare Toffee Arepa at home:

Toffee Arepa recipe

Groceries

2 cups corn flour for tortillas (Masa Harina)

2 cups hot water

1 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons olive oil

slices of mozzarella cheese

Preparation:

1.  Place the flour, oil and salt in a deep bowl.

2. Pour the hot water in, and wait for about three minutes until the dough texture is soft and pleasant to the touch.

3.  Create 6 equally sized balls

4.  Create 6 chubby slices from each ball

5.  Heat a little olive oil in a skillet

6.  Fry the slices well for about three minutes on each side

7.  Place on a plate, cut the flat bread across (similarly to Pita Bread) and place several slices of mozzarella cheese inside each slice.

8.  Place on the frying pan and fry each side for two extra minutes until the cheese melts.

9. Plate and eat.

In my cooking workshops you can get to know new flavors, prepare the classic dishes of the different Latin kitchens such as: empanadas, Ceviche, quinoa salad and more.

I hold my workshops for closed groups in my personal kitchen in the picturesque Moshav Zippory where I live.  You can celebrate birthdays, hold a bonding activity or other occasions, and enjoy a colorful, tasty workshop in a happy Latin atmosphere.

The workshop includes preparation of 6 different dishes and is accompanied by Latin snacks, cold and hot drinks and a cocktail!  The workshop is 3 hours long, after which we eat the food prepared.

The workshop is priced at 300 NIS per person.

If you are traveling in the North of Israel around my area I would be happy to offer you an indulgent picnic basket with some Latin vibes.

In the basket you will find: corn empanadas, little Jerusalem bagels, Peruvian quinoa salad, sliced fresh vegetables, dried tomato spread, cilantro pesto, eggplant and Tahini mix spread, home made white cheese, Syrian olives, Tzfat Cheese, cold Mexican hibiscus tea and muffins for desert.

The basket also includes a small olive oil bottle from the organic Olive Press Rish La Kish, glasses, perishable knives and fork sets as well as serviettes.

The basket is priced at 200 NIS per couple, with an addition of 50 NIS per extra person. The basket needs to be ordered a day in advance and picked up from Zippory.

Find Vicki on her blog Cooking Views and on her Instagram.

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One of Tel Aviv’s main Graffiti hubs, lies in the southern neighborhood Florentin. Florentin is laid back bohemian and trendy, with little cafes and bars.

The graffiti in Florentin, much like the city itself, can perhaps best be described as ironic and self-absorbed.

In Florentin I didn’t come across images that express violence and death such as those I saw in Medellin Columbia. Nor were they breathtakingly beautiful and monumental like those of Kobra, which I was fortunate to see in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

However, walking along the allies of Florentin you will get a delicious bite out of Tel Aviv’s vibe.  Colorful and wise-ass, with a lot of up to date urban charm.

How do you feel about Graffiti?

The pictures were taken during a trip with Be Tel Aviv Graffiti Tour, of which I was a guest.

If you liked this post, you may be interested in the lesser-known hipster Talpiot Market in Haifa, which has fun graffiti too.

Check out Jerusalem Graffiti Tour – discovering new colors in the Holy City.

Read about public wall art in Haifa’s Wadi Nisnas neighborhood here.

The post 10 photos to inspire you to see Graffiti in Florentin, Tel Aviv appeared first on Adiseesworld.

As a child, I used to read any book I could lay my hands on. Including the Encyclopedias at home. One of the volumes was dedicated to ancient Egypt. Flipping through the pages, I “visited” the Tomb of Tutankhamun and the Valley of Kings. I savored the spectacular images, and learnt about mysterious gods and pyramid construction methods. Under the influence of this Encyclopedia volume, I traveled to Egypt at a later age, to see for myself what the pyramids in look like in reality.

Here are some books that will inspire you to travel the world:

CORFU
My Family and Other Animals – Gerald Durrell

An autobiographical novel by the well-known author and zoologist, who describes with comical exaggeration his childhood with his family, in the Greek island of Corfu in the 1930s.

The descriptions of the lively tavernas, and cheerfulness and hospitality of the locals in My Family and Other Animals, made me include Corfu in a trip to Greece.

In Corfu I discovered a beautiful lush island with spectacular bays and cliffs that rise above clear blue waters. I liked the historic Corfu Town, with its’ alleys and Italian influenced architecture, which distinguished it from other Greek islands. The island is no longer the unspoilt heaven depicted in Durrell’s book. Largely due to the author’s successful books, putting Corfu “on the map”. Nevertheless, it is undoubtedly still worth a visit.

Suitable for: nostalgic humor lovers who want to read about life in a piece of idyllic paradise. Animal lovers will especially love it.

PARIS
The Slow Waltz of the Turtles – Katrin Pancol

A fun read about a mother-of-two, who reaches a crossroad, after becoming rich after secretly writing successful novel under a pen name, for her sister. The story takes place in an upscale apartment building in the heart of Paris. The Parisian setting of The Slow Waltz of the Turtles adds a distinct flavour to it. It just would not be the same book, if the protagonists did not have distinctly French names and the novel took place in another city.

Suitable for: lovers of urban Francophilia, with elements of romance and suspense.

NEW YORK
Sex and the City – Candice Bushnell.

Before the Television series, there was Candice Bushnell’s book – Sex and the City. The book is based on a column she wrote in the New York Observer in the 1990’s. While the series is lighthearted, the novel is no fairy tale. It takes a more alienated, critical outlook on the lives of the Manhattan women it describes. The characters go out to fashionable parties, have emotionally detached sex and take drugs as part of a pursuit, to climb up Manhattan’s social ladder.

Suitable for: readers who can stomach sharply observant almost cruel depictions of a decadent era and society in New York.

NEW YORK – once again
Catcher in the Rye, J.D. Salinger

The book, considered groundbreaking in American literature, will make you feel as if you are experiencing Manhattan along with the main character, Holden Caulfield.

Some say that the Manhattan in the Catcher in the Rye is a metaphor for Holden’s troubled mental state. The city plays a central role in the story-line, as Holden drifts through the city’s most famous attractions. Although the book was published in 1951, it stands the test of time . The landmarks mentioned in it, have stayed mostly unchanged and should not be missed if you come to Manhattan.

Suitable for: American classic’s enthusiasts with a fondness for the sincerity of rebellious youth.

IRELAND
Sushi for Beginners – Marian Keyes

Marianne Keys’ books which have sold in tens of millions of copies) are considered light hearted and humorous and usually take place in the city of Dublin. Although they make be considered “Chick Lit”, they can touch on darker themes like depression and alcoholism. If you are looking for a guilty pleasure to make you feel like you are a young Irishwoman living in vibrant Dublin, Sushi for Beginners is the book for you.

Suitable For: anyone looking for a romantic, cheeky, clever romantic novel.

AROUND THE WORLD
Around the World in Eighty Days – Jules Verne

In Around the World in Eighty Days Verne makes use of suspense, amusing characters, geographical facts, and a skilled plot construction in his unique way. Way back in 1872, that Jules Vern succeeded in engaging his readers’ imagination and make them want to travel the world by every means of transport available. The book even brought to the reader’s awareness important women’s rights issues such as Sati (widow burning in India). Standing the test of time, Around the World in Eighty Days will still make you want to take your own trip around the world.

Suitable for: tweens and adults wanting to revisit an intriguing easy to read childhood classic.

What books made you want to travel to the destinations they were written about?

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Sure, as someone who grew up in Africa, I’m definitely prejudiced. But I’m sure many would agree that Zanzibar has a unique mix of influence from India and Africa, and possibly some visual motifs from One Thousand and One Nights Tales. Cows with humps, exotic spices, pristine nature, turquoise water and Muslim Africans from different tribes that have mingled over the years are just part of what will greet you upon arrival.

Impressions and insights from Zanzibar (or, the heavy part of this post)

Want to read what to see and do and see on the island? Skip directly to Part B of the post.

Back to the 1980s

The driver who picked us up at the airport greeted us with a minivan / upgraded pickup truck. The van was equipped with a “sophisticated” sound system (NOT) with a variety of cassettes (yes, I repeat, C-A-S-S-E-T-T-E-S, the ones with the coils). The repertoire of the best hits of the 80s was there in all its glory. From “Lady in Red” to “Karma Chameleon.” We quickly realized that we had been landed into another time-zone.

P–A-T- I- E-N-C-E

The pace of life in Zanzibar is different. Some roads can be rocky and there are traffic blocks where officers might imply, with a friendly handshake, that if you wish to continue on your way, it is advisable to slip a little “baksheesh” into their hand. The Airport was also not an easy experience for us. When awaiting to check in for departure back home, there was no conditioning, and the building was jam packed. Our suitcases were weighed by manual scales that looked as if they’ve known better days – weighing agricultural produce! All that remains is to smile and breathe deeply. Because visiting Zanzibar is worth the relative discomfort. Really!

The people (or why I felt like a privileged tourist):

People in Zanzibar touched my heart. In the resorts areas, we were greeted with a broad smile and “Jumbo” (hello). As we walked along we they called after us “Pole, pole” (meaning slowly, slowly) as well as “hakuna matata” (all is well).

Some of the people that became etched in my heart and mind:, without intention:

The young resort representative, David: Who also worked as a school teacher in the nearby village.
When he agreed to accompany me to the turtle farm in the nearby village, he was not impressed that I was at that time in a senior management position in television.

In fact, he didn’t really know what cable television was, and didn’t care either. He openly told me anecdotes about his family as if we were old friends. When I didn’t have enough cash to pay for handcuffs I wanted, although he was living off on a minimum wage in a third world country, he pulled out his meager wallet without hesitation and paid for it. Of course I paid him back as soon as we returned to the hotel.

The women who collected seaweed on the beach for a living:
The look they gave me when discovering that that I had photographed them was awful. Could they have believed that the camera was stealing the soul from them? I didn’t know that the locals, and the older generation in particular, didn’t like being photographed. The frame just asked me to perpetuate it. And when I clicked it was too late. So don’t be like me. Be kind and civilized and ask for permission in advance, or don’t take photos of Zanzibar local folks at all.

The Masai tribe guards:
They are legendary, tall and impressive. They stand on one foot for hours in order to develop endurance while wearing traditional red woven fabric. But even the warriors of one of the most famous tribes in Africa need to make a living. The hotels import them from Kenya and Tanzania to serve as guards. They may also be there for decorative touristy purposes, but just to be on the safe side, we made sure we did nothing to upset them.

Poverty

Alongside the impressive grandeur and luxurious hospitality at the highest levels, there are villages where there isn’t a permanent supply of sufficient drinking water or electricity. David told us that when the drinking water in the common taps on the street stops, trucks pass through the village and deliver gallons of semi-brackish water. The local children live in material poverty. When we came across them in the villages they were smiling and happy to get pencils from the Italian tourists who arrived equipped with stationary they had packed for this purpose in advance.

Zanzibar: Recommended things to see and do in the beautiful island (or, the light part of this post):

1. Nungwi Beach

Located at the northernmost part of the island, it is said that Nungwi beaches are the most beautiful on the island. Strolling through the gleaming white sands feels like walking around in a dream, a postcard, or any other cliché of a beautiful vacation you can imagine. It’s all true. Strolling around the beach you will come across fishermen preparing for sailing in traditional handmade wooden Daw boats. The design of the Daw boats has not changed for centuries.

2. Accommodation: hospitality fit for royals

One of the best decisions we took, was choosing the Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort for our accommodation. The bedroom we were assigned was the size of my entire apartment in back home. It felt like a small mansion in from the film “Out of Africa.” There were had heavy wooden canopy beds, stylish curtains and nets. In the bath there were handmade natural toiletries, made from a wonderful spice blend of cinnamon, cloves and natural oils.

Located on a beach with perfect turquoise water the Resort had an infinity pool and a pool with an alcoholic bar located in the middle of it. The hotel restaurant serves fresh, varied dishes with surprising blends of exotic spices. We also overheard daily staff briefings being held on how to constantly improve service and hospitality standards. It was refreshing to see how much they cared about maintaining the high standard and satisfaction of the guests.

3. Safari Blue and the Vanishing Island:

Take a daily tour (called “Safari Blue) with Dow Boats. The highlight of this tour for me was the “Vanishing Island”. This island is actually a strip of a sand dune in the middle of the sea. During low tide it is visible, while during high tide it “disappears” from sight. And it happens fast. Make sure with your guide that they take you there during the right timing or there will be no place to stand on the island due to the large amount of boats during “rush-hour”.
Do snorkeling, watch the clear water between the rock tabs and mangrove trees and feel like you’re in a magical movie.

4. Jozani Forest and the Red Colobus Monkeys

Not really a forest, more like a grove with a few monkeys that are endemic to the island and in my humble opinion pretty saddening to watch them like in a small safari. But still, if you love nature and unique wildlife, visit Jozani Forest. Another item to tick off on the checklist.

5. Spice Farm Tour

An interesting place to see how the spices that star in our home kitchen grow in the wild. For example, did you know that cinnamon is actually a tree bark? That there is no such thing as red and black pepper, but their color depends on the timing of their harvesting? And what do the flowers from which the world-renowned perfumes are made look like in nature? According to our guide, the farm we visited was a cooperative settlement that jointly grows and markets the produce of the spice plantations. We were delighted to buy from them at the end of the tour, a selection of spices packed in carved wooden trays in the form of the traditional Daw boats. I recommend buying some at an attractive price at such farms, knowing that the money is really going back to the locals.

6. Sea turtle conservation farm

Yes, they swim in murky water, they are slippery and slightly repulsive, but the visit to the marine turtle conservation farm Mnarani Aquarium was fascinating. The local guide told us how sea turtles “catch a ride” on ocean currents and migrate from one end of the world to the other, to return and lay eggs on the same beach where they first hatched. He and volunteers from around the world educate the local population about avoiding the consumption of sea turtles. They explain to them that they are an endangered species. And the kids ask their grandmothers not to make them turtle soup for dinner anymore. Interesting + ugh.

7. Attractions we contemplated seeing, but didn’t get to it

Since the temptation for another sun soaking restful day at the resort overcame us, there are a number of things we to do and see that we didn’t end up doing. We didn’t visit the ancient island capital, Stone Town. The city has stone alleys with carved wooden doors as well as Freddie Mercury’s childhood home. There is a port from which you can proceed to the Turtle Island and other islands, an ancient fortress and also a memorial museum about the slave trade that took place on the island up until 1873. The tour of the museum shows the tragedy that took place here to locals by Arab merchants. A dark part of Zanzibar’s history that makes it the unique melting pot it is today.

Summary? I have no summary just a warm recommendation to travel and experience the special island. Before it is flooded with herds of tourists and becomes utterly over-touristy.

The post Zanzibar: top insights, tips and attractions appeared first on Adiseesworld.

One finger click and the images were there for posterity. What an elegant solution!

My I love for looking at other people’s photos also grew.

To this day, I still find it gratifying when images inspire me to travel.

I just love it when they make me feel the vibe of the places photographed, as I drool over the amazing destinations, putting the best ones on my bucket list.

But I have to admit that lately, instead of being inspired I feel bored and frustrated.

Because it seems that all travel pictures on social media look EXACTLY THE SAME.

Clichés anyone?

At this time, the social media travel photo trends I despise the most are:

1. Hand holding ice-cream

Can someone please explain to me what’s the point in these shots?

a. They don’t even make sense.

b. Are they trying to make people envious of their dessert, right before devouring it in an attractive destination?

Because plebs in the suburb of Givatayim have ice cream too, you know… Even if it comes out of a tub of Ben and Jerry’s at 20:00 in front of the TV every night over the past 3 weeks. Just saying. As a way of example of course.

c. If you don’t have a nice manicure, it looks awful and defeats the purpose of showing a yummy dessert.

d. If you do have a manicure, please let me how you make it last while traveling longer than 2 days before the polish chips off. Thank you!

2. Led by hand

Have not committed this “follow me to” crime yet. Please, just shoot me if I do (pardon the pun).

3. Small person in front of vast landscape with back to camera

Forgive me, for I have committed this sin. I was not with my back to the camera though. Hey, I never claimed I was perfect.

4. Bikini beach shots

Don’t think that it annoys me because I’m in my 40s (going on 25). Bikini shots were always embarrassing to me…

Full bathing suites are not the same as bikinis. Ok?

I, therefore, plead innocent on that count.

Disclaimer: should you run into any bikini shots of the writer of this blog on social media, they must have been taken when she was highly intoxicated or desperate for attention, on day of posting.

5. Selfeet

Embarrassed to say I am guilty of this vice. Am still none the wiser on who decided this is something normal to do on social media and why.

Come on (or should I say common) people.
(Judgmental? You think?)

Seriously, it takes some COURAGE to experiment and post something different, instead of the “safe” images, angles and filters which you know will bring you a certain amount of engagement.

Are you “guilty” of sticking with any of the above trends, even though they may bore or annoy you to death?

If so, I dare you to post something different next time and see what happens.

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