thecircumference.org results for 'fun', editorial entries only

La Tomatina, The Worlds Largest Food Fight!

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 20:28:18 +0000

Children brought up in any proper home were taught not to throw their food, but when you visit the La Tomatina Festival, this is the one destination that will deliver the sweetest of pleasures to those suppressed childhood dreams of rebellion. No need to feel guilty about tossin’ out the rules that your mom so sweetly instilled in you here, in Bunol Spain the La Tomatina Festival showcases one of the least publicized talents for many, that of throwing your food, tomatoes to be specific! During the celebration this small town of normally 9,000 is flooded with enthusiasts from all over the world to take part in week long festivities of music, dancing, fireworks, and of course the main event. To start the fight, water canons blast and the hour long battle of every man for himself begins. The after math of such a saucy event is none other then street bathing, which can be just as fun as the initial messy match!

Get a Real Taste of Ireland at Dublin's Best Pubs

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 17:20:17 +0000

For most Dubliners, the pub is the centre of Irish society. Every occasion takes place here, be it happy or sad, culinary or alcohol-fuelled, literary or sporting, business or pleasure, family or friends. And no matter where you go in Dublin, you'll find a public house or two or three on every street. As James Joyce wrote in his classic novel Ulysses, “A good puzzle would be to cross Dublin without passing a pub.” One of the best aspects of Dublin pub life is that it's a culture open to all, locals and visitors alike. Everyone is welcome to sample the charm, “craic” (fun in Gaelic), music, drink and conversation. Whether you're after a quiet pint, a rock music bar, cocktails, traditional music and dancing, food or a simple suburban bar (known as a “local”), you will find it right across Dublin. Of course, for the classic and most authentic Irish pub experience, you'll want to stay away from Dublin’s many modern bars and go for the older, cozier establishments. There you'll find a better pint, better atmosphere and better conversation. Better still, take a day off from conventional sight-seeing and have one drink in a series of different pubs. This way you'll experience the very best of what Dublin pub culture has to offer. This can be done without leaving the environs of Grafton Street, Dublin’s busiest shopping area. Starting from St Stephen's Green, a popular city park, you'll find your way to Peter's Pub—a tiny establishment on Johnson's Place that has great stout if you can fit yourself in the door! Circle back towards Grafton Street and you'll come to Neary's—another classic spot with cozy red interior that has a back door that joins up with the stage door of Dublin's Gaiety Theatre. Come after a play and the actors you've just seen will be at the bar already! On nearby South Anne Street you'll come to Kehoe's—a cavernous old bar where it's easy to get lost and where you'll see sports fans drinking out on the street after a big match. Across the road you'll find McDaids, where the drinks are good but standing is compulsory; and Bruxelles, the home of Irish rock ‘n’ roll, where you can let your ear guide you between two basement bars with sharply contrasting musical styles. Slightly further down is The Duke—a well-known footrest halfway through the Grafton Street area on Duke Street. Davy Byrnes, famous as a location in two of James Joyce's books, is on the same street. If you continue on down you'll come to O'Donoghues on Suffolk Street, formerly known as the Thing Mote and one of the city's airiest wooden pubs. Further up you'll hit O'Neills—a large and welcoming green pub that takes up one whole corner of Suffolk Street. By now you'll have visited many of Dublin's best pubs, and this is without even reaching Temple Bar—the city's cultural and nightlife district. Inside this cultural quarter you'll find dozens of bars including the Palace Bar, where there's always a great traditional music session upstairs; the Auld Dubliner, a nice warm bar that's frequently overlooked; and the Temple Bar itself, which is the best place to find other visitors to team up with. Choose whichever takes your fancy to round off the evening before taking a short stroll back to your guest bed happy in the knowledge that you've seen and done the best of Europe's coolest drinking city.

Fun-Soaked Times at the New Year Celebration in Vientiane, Lao

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 21:23:44 +0000

Dancing under the splash of water hoses; dodging balloons filled with coloured water; smiling at a sea of faces painted with talcum powder—these are not your typical New Year festivities. Yet, this is exactly the celebration awaiting visitors to Lao’s capital city, Vientiane, during Bun Pi Mao Lao: the Lao New Year. Lao New Year celebrations last from April 13th–15th and are marked by a jovial water fight that the entire city takes part in. Quite simply, this was by far the most exciting and memorable Yew Year celebration I have ever experienced. Arriving a day before the Lao New Year, the sleepy streets of Vientiane were quiet and offered no hint of the splash-filled revelry that would soon begin. Leaving the guesthouse the following morning (the first day of Lao New Year celebrations) I was greeted by a cheerful group of Laotian youth: dancing, drinking and dousing each other with water in the street. As a foreigner, I was a prime target for the water fight, and so I was immediately soaked by the group and invited to join their street party. After my first encounter with Lao New Year traditions, I quickly revised my travel itinerary so I could enjoy the full three-day fun-soaked Bun Pi Mao Lao. The first street party that I encountered on Lao New Year was quickly outdone by the huge parade-like celebration being held on the Mekong riverside. The streets were lined with water-throwing revellers while decorated cars, trucks and “tuk-tuks” drove by blaring music and shooting surprisingly high-powered water guns at the crowds. No one is spared from the water’s reach, and I watched as children, professionals and even policemen laughed as buckets of water were poured over them. It's particularly entertaining to watch as travellers arriving in Vientiane found themselves and their backpacks unexpectedly drenched. Enthusiastic Lao New Year revelers even use talcum powder to paint the faces of those around them. This massive Lao New Year water fight is more than just an excuse to get some much-needed reprieve from the hot summer sun. The sprinkling of water on one another symbolizes a cleansing of the past year’s troubles and the welcoming of a prosperous, healthy New Year. In addition to the cleansing water, Laotians also tie a white string around their wrists: a symbol of the New Year said to bestow good fortune. Since most businesses and restaurants are closed for Lao New Year celebrations, we were honored to share New Year meals with the owner of the guest house and several others along the street. I have never received such friendly, accommodating treatment in a foreign country, particularly one in which I could scarcely communicate in. The contagious laughter of Laotians, and the uninhibited dancing and generous spirit made this Lao New Year festival a truly remarkable experience. Even though Thailand is often described as the “Land of Smiles,” I believe Lao is much more deserving of that title. I can think of no better way to bring in the New Year than to do it Laotian style.

Get Apocalyptic at Mexico's Uxmal

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:31:11 +0000

The Yucatan Peninsula is commonly considered and visited for the warm beaches around places like Cozumel, Cancun, and Playa del Carmen. They’re great getaways that draw the sun worshipers looking to unwind, relax and have some fun; but it’s not all about the sand and surf. Visitors to the area can also explore ancient city ruins of the once powerful Mayans: a civilization that ruled a large chunk of present-day Mexico and Central America for thousands of years. The most popular of these sites is the nearby Chichen Itza; but just a bit further down the road sits its impressive cousin: Uxmal (Oosh-mahl)— an interesting and less crowded experience. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Uxmal, which is Mayan for “built three times,” is believed to have been abandoned shortly before the Spanish arrived in the 15th century. Research and restoration work is still conducted to determine historical details, but it appears the area experienced initial construction as early as 850 BC. Uxmal, once a prominent location for the Mayans, diminished as other Toltec invaders and cultures moved in. Uxmal in Yucatan was once home to an estimated 25,000 people, but those crowds aren’t even remotely seen here today as Chichen Itza, the second most visited site in Mexico, tends to draw more visitors from the nearby beach resorts. What sets the Uxmal ruins apart is the Magician’s Pyramid, also known as the Pyramid of the Dwarf, which rises 115 feet (35 meters) above the surrounding structures. It is believed to be unique among Mayan constructions, with its rounded sides and height, and even gradient, as it towers over the sprawling 150-acre complex. The Magician’s Pyramid is adorned with beautiful temples and decorations, some being built as late as AD 1000. A number of other fascinating structures litter the grounds and are also worth experiencing. The Nunnery Quadrangle (a possible military academy) and the Governor’s Palace (both named by the Spanish) are two of the most important and worthwhile. Although elaborate carvings and adornments can be found around both buildings, of particular note is the 320-foot (97 meter) long mosaic facade on the Governor’s Palace. It is definitely worth closer inspection, as is the Jaguar Throne (an animal associated with Mayan kings) in the front of the structure. The ceremonial causeway that links Uxmal with Kabah, once a trading centre 11 miles (18 km) to the south, is definitely worthy of a visit. Some travellers today are attracted to the Mayan sites because of the 2012 apocalyptic predictions from the Mayan calendar. Many historians and scientists argue against the popular culture, saying that there is very little fact indicating such an occurrence. Nonetheless, revitalization in the interest of these places is happening. Now is a great time to take advantage of it and experience a fascinating and exotic place, close to the relaxing resort life, that once held great sway in the world.

Throw Colours to the Wind at the Holi Festival of Colours in India

Sun, 26 Jul 2009 17:37:10 +0000

Imagine you're walking down a city street in India. Spring has arrived and the sun is shining brightly. The level of excitement in the air is contagious. From around the corner a child runs out and throws a water balloon at you, giggling as he runs to find his next target. A cloud of colour bursts into the air as you realize that the balloon wasn't just holding water. It was also holding coloured powder in celebration of the Hindu Holi Festival of Colours. Well-known throughout the world, the Holi Festival of Colours is one of the oldest Hindu festivals observed during the spring season, with adults and children alike taking part in the celebration. Depending on the region, it is also referred to as Holaka, Phagwa, Dhulheti, Dhulandi or Dhulendi. For those in celebration, Holi is a time to move past winter's gloom and celebrate spring's colours. The Festival of Colours is celebrated each year in the Hindu month of Phalguna on the day of the full moon at the end of February or early March. The celebration includes bonfires and Hindus showering each other with water and coloured powder. While it's easy to buy colours in today's market, many people will make the colours at home from tesu and palash flowers. The Festival is celebrated by all ages, and shops and offices are routinely closed for the main event, which is the throwing of the colours. Mythology plays an important role in the Festival, and the most recognized stories of Holi origin relate to 'Holika Dahan' and the Legend of Radha-Krishan. The 'Holika Dahan' tradition is the lighting of the bonfire and celebrates the victory of good over evil. The legend of Radha and Krishna is more about the throwing of colours. Young Krishna was jealous of his beloved Radha's fair complexion, and feeling mischieveous one day he placed colour on her face. To this day, lovers colour one another as an expression of their love. In India, everyone wants to be the first to shower another with colour during the celebration. Temples are decorated for Holi and an Idol of Radha is placed on swings. Some turn the swings while singing Holi songs of devotion, and across the country everyone wants to take part in the fun while frolicking and becoming intoxicated with the colours. The arrival of spring each year signifies hope and joy to all who take part in the Holi celebration.

Death Road Ride - El Camino de la Muerta, My Bike, and Me

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 02:38:48 +0000

Preparades? Yes, I was ready I said. My guide waved a quick goodbye and got back in his car, slammed it into gear and headed back down the mountain. I moved my bike to the road’s shoulder and while I pulled on my gloves, I admired the tranquil morning canyon below me. I had come to the top of the Yungas Road, also known as Death Road this morning. I had been making the trek northward from Patagonia with no idea of what I wanted to do or where I was going. Along the way I got drunk in a bodega in Mendoza, got the flu in Salta, and ate real locro in Jujuy. Fun, but not real adventure. Then over a cup of coffee in a grimy bus café, an Aussie couple told me about the world’s most dangerous road, Yungas Road. They showed me a map and explained how I could rent a bike and a guide for the Yungas Road which connected the Northern Bolivian rain forest of Bolivia to La Paz through a mountain. It was guardrail-less, paralleled six hundred metre drops, and was often swamped in thick, rising fog. The couple insisted that trek down this road was worth ten trips anywhere. That afternoon I bought a ticket to La Paz, and hunkered down in a hostel for the night. After a long sleep, I inquired about getting a guide and bike. The owner smiled and made a call. Forty minutes later I was in a beat up Jeep driven by a silent yet friendly middle aged man with a greasy yellow mountain bike strapped to the top. I took a breath and began my journey down Death Road. The bike picked up speed and my wrist tightened on the brake. My adrenal glands began pumping. I had been on a road like this one outside of the small Chinese city of Lai Wu. It was smooth and wide. This road was anything but. My front wheel hit a rut and I swung the handle bars to the left. I could see the edge of the canyon on my right and felt my muscles lock. The road got steeper and although the road looked scary, I felt a rhythm in my wrists. I worked the brakes only slightly and let myself go faster down the hill. The gravel popped underneath the wheels and a thick wind came up. The adrenal feeling returned in full force. I continued to steer, fast, steady, and carefree. The landscape beside the road was wide and vast, and seemed to lead me safely to the bottom. In retrospect, I realized it was also handy that there were no vehicles on road during my trip down. Every minute seemed like an hour, yet it was only some minutes. I brought my bike to a halt and looked up. I wondered how far down I had come, but it soon donned on me that it wasn’t important. Just coming down the way I did was enough, knowing that hundreds of people over the years had died on this stretch, both in bike and car accidents.

Try Your Luck at Okayama’s Naked Man Festival

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 21:01:22 +0000

For most of the year southern Japan’s Okayama City is a tranquil midsized town that offers a typical Japanese experience tourists will not find in Tokyo or Kyoto. But for one weekend every February the city transforms into a testosterone-charged den of mayhem and festivity. Brave men from near and far congregate at the Saidaiji Kan'nonin Temple for the internationally renowned Hadaka Matsuri—more commonly known as the Naked Man Festival. The Naked Man Festival, which dates back to the sixteenth century, features nearly 10,000 near-naked men vying for a pair of sacred sticks thrown by a priest into the Saki-charged mob. Male bonding takes on a new meaning as the loincloth-clad participants struggle to gain the sacred sticks, and the lucky winner is blessed with a year of happiness. The remaining combatants have the opportunity to earn a smattering of also-ran items, which also bestow luck upon their champion. For decades the Naked Man Festival has been a popular tourist event, inviting travelers to strip down and shout “Wasshoi! Wasshoi!” with the unruly crowd approaching the temple. Near-freezing temperatures in the dead of night assure that only the toughest competitors can withstand the challenge. An entire day of fun precedes the midnight climax, when the lights are extinguished and the sacred sticks are thrown into the melee. Participants fret not if they are not among the lucky winners of the sacred talismans—every witness of this ancient and bizarre spectacle is a winner in the end.

Majestic Camargue

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 03:36:23 +0000

The majesty of the Wild West meets the exotic flavor of the savanna wetlands here in the Rhône Delta region of southern France. Around 350,000 acres in size, the Camargue is a fascinating region of different topographic settings blended beautifully into one relaxing locale with plenty to see and experience. In this province you will find salty marsh lands, picturesque pastures, old world towns, and some of the loveliest beaches in all of France. Exploring the region can be done in several ways, and the most preferred is by horseback. Visitors can purchase guided tours by horseback, bicycle, motorbike, and even take guided walking tours throughout the region. All guests are welcome to go off and explore the landscape on their own. In fact, 12 miles of road within the Camargue are completely blocked from motorists, allowing for pedestrians and those traveling by horseback to have free reign. Traveling inside of the Camargue Regional Park will allow guests to view breathtaking images of various species of migrating birds, especially pink flamingos! White horses and large bulls romp in the pasture lands for all to see. Exploring the local towns of the region, Arles, Les Saintes Maries de la Mer, and Salins de Giraud, will give many travelers that sense of old world charm without the hustle and bustle of most European cities. Fantastic buildings and Chateaus create a sense of being back in time for travelers. Locals enjoy dressing up in traditional outfits to entertain their visitors, and are more than happy to put on a show. Many festivals and gatherings are celebrated throughout the year, so guests who plan accordingly will have the chance of a lifetime to experience the local flavor.

Kiss the Blarney Stone and Gain the Gift of Gab

Thu, 07 May 2009 03:23:41 +0000

If you are anything like me, the idea of having infinite conversational skills and the ability to wow friends with your charming anecdotes and interesting musings certainly sounds appealing. High upon the defensive walls of Blarney Castle in County Cork lies the Blarney Stone, that when kissed, is purported to bestow the "gift of the gab" to the smoocher. Though the exact origin of the Stone is unknown, one legend suggests that the Blarney Stone is related to Lia Fáil, or the Stone of Destiny. Others believe that the Stone was a gift from the Scots, and still others hold that Blarney has Biblical origins. Whatever the case may be, the Stone's magic is real to those who kiss it. Make no mistake though, the Blarney Stone makes you work for its gift. Climbing up the heavy stairs and snaking around the top of the castle's fortified parapets, you are nearly two storeys high when you bend over backwards, and let your hair hang down as you kiss the Blarney Stone. That's right, the Blarney Stone only offers its magic to a kisser positioned upside down! Years ago visitors were simply dangled over the edge by their ankles, but these days the proprietors of Blarney Castle have installed iron handles and safety railing to ensure that gab-lusters don't fall. Additional helpers also give you a hand with the bending and obligatory photo-taking while you're upside down in the act. Your magical trip to Blarney Castle isn't complete with the kissing of the Stone though. There are lots of other lucky spots worth taking in around the grounds, such as the Wishing Steps. If you walk up and down the steps with your eyes closed, your wish will be granted within a year! The caves and crannies around Blarney Castle are imbued with all kinds of mystical Irish legends, from fairies to leprechauns!

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Sun, 08 Feb 2009 13:19:12 +0000

It's quite possible that the saying shop till you drop originated from the Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok. Sprawling over 35 acres and comprised of an estimated 5,000 - 9,000 vendors, Chatuchak is a bargain hunters dream come true. If you’re not entirely accustomed to bartering, Chatuchak is the perfect environment to develop your skills. The best method is a respectful and pleasant demeanor, with a hint of unworried confidence. Any and everything you can imagine for sale can be found here. Plants, apparel, furniture, art, food, jewelry, pets, crafts and the list goes on and on. Over 400,000 people wind through this maze of merchandise in Thailand every weekend, making it the largest in the world. Half the fun is roaming aimlessly and finding yourself amongst some unknown custom designed graphic T's or exotic handy crafts. If you’re looking for something specific you can grab a map from one of the information booths, which loosely groups the vendors by product. Amidst the organized chaos the bargains abound, the food is delectable and the atmosphere one of a kind.

Cleanse Your Soul at Catemaco’s Noche de las Brujas

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 17:52:05 +0000

In southern Mexico, nestled between ranges of volcanic mountains, the town of Catemaco springs to life every March with a spectacle of witchcraft, sorcery and merriment. The Noche de Brujas—“Night of the witches”—dates back to the precolonial era, drawing traditional healers, shamans, prophets and fortune-tellers from all over Mexico to gather for a legendary all-night festival, during which participants invoke a mass cleansing to alleviate the previous year’s negative energies. Adventurous tourists join in on the fun of Noche de Brujas, some just to witness the spectacle, others daring to get involved. The adorable avenues and landscapes of pristine Catemaco are supercharged with mysticism on a regular day, but during Noche de Brujas the sense is nearly palpable. Streets are crowded year-round with vendors selling trinkets, magical potions and healings. Tourists encounter spiritualists and sorcerers in every nook and cranny, advertising traditional remedies for just about any malady you can think of. The culebreros (snake bite healers) are renowned due to the region’s abundance of venomous snakes, but unless you’ve recently come across an asp or a cobra, consider hiring a yorbatero (massage healer) instead for a soothing massage. Follow the signs to dwellings of prominent witches. Hire a witch for a limpia—a spiritual cleaning; better yet, unless your soul is afflicted with a curse, have the bruja cast one on someone else in your party! When the Noche de Brujas is over, stay a few extra days to catch a ferry to the Monkey Islands, where abandoned research monkeys from Thailand run free. Take a morning stroll down the Malecon and witness the 600 species of birds come to life as the sun breaks on the volcanic horizon. Unless you're a risk taker who craves confrontation, avoid taking snapshots of the brujos; they hate photographs.

Kayak Ang Thong National Park

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 11:10:18 +0000

The bulging clouds set a plush curtain to the days stage, as we departed from Nathon, Koh Samui for an adventure filled day of sea kayaking at Ang Thong National Park. Setting out with the preeminent provider of kayaking tours in Samui, Blue Stars, we sat back and enjoyed the view as we sailed along the island studded Gulf. Ang Thong National Park consists of over 42 uniquely individual islands, covered in limestone mountains, uninhabited beaches and lush secluded forests. The allure of Ang Thong Park is as clear as the water is warm and irresistible. One of the main attractions of Ang Thong, and our first stop of the day was the Green Lagoon on Ko Mae Ko. This hidden saltwater lake is nestled among a towering limestone cliff perimeter, sheltered from the shore by the encircling forest. We arrived here before all other tour operators which was spectacular, allowing us to view the serenity of this haven without the intrusion of hordes of tourists. Following this we set out by kayak to explore the coast of Ko Mae Ko. Navigating under the overhanging cliffs and through the rock crevices was challenging but fun. As we paddled along soaking up the morning sun, we were completely enthralled in the dramatic rock walls and deserted beaches. After journeying back to the boat with our guide, we enjoyed a delicious Thai lunch as we cruised on to our second stop of the day Ko Tai Plao. Refuelled and rested, we set out for our second kayak expedition. Astonishingly, this area was even more fascinating then our morning location. Maneuvering through caves, tunnels and under massive overhangs that jut straight out from the cliffs hundreds of meters high, the detail in the formations begged you to stop and revel in the natural beauty that had been sculpted by erosion over hundreds of years. One tunnel even lead to an enclosed lagoon where we stopped to bask in the solitude. After working up a sweat, a swim was just what we needed. Blue Stars provided us with life vests and snorkel gear to glide along the glassy ocean surface. The snorkel location was superb, showcasing butterfly fish, parrot fish and angel fish. The parrot fish were extraordinary, hovering just above, you could hear them biting away at the coral below. We were the only tour at this location, which was key as some spots can become overrun with snorkelers scaring away fish and interrupting your snorkeling experience.

Earning Your Fins in Open Water Diving Certification

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 08:26:32 +0000

After shaking off the initial surprise of my first plunge into the open water, I started to breath more calmly from my regulator. The transition from feeling heavily weighed down from all the scuba gear to one of pure weightlessness is a unique sensation, I'm sure it's much compared to that of being in space. Soon there after we began our descent into the thriving marine life below. The journey to obtaining our open water diving certification began back on beaches of Koh Samui, where we found a reputable PADI certified dive shop. Located in the idyllic Fisherman´s Village of Bophut, the Easy Divers staff were very friendly and had plenty of experience. Over the next two days we spent time both in the classroom and in the pool, all in preparation for our four open water dives that would earn us our certification. Although open water diving is something that I have always wanted to do, there was still a small part of me that was unjustifiably scared of a completely insane shark attack. Tilo my instructor assured me that this would not happen, which I knew already, but that extra little reassurance was all I needed. Descending for the first time was somewhat challenging. There was so much going on around me, it was hard to take it all in at once. Being in only a small group of two was key, as we were able to descend slowly with attentive guidance from Tilo, allowing us plenty of time to equalize and regain our comfort level. Our first dive at Koh Yippon was just a fun dive, and despite the poor visibility, I emerged a changed woman. My fascination with everything we saw around us consumed me as we rested until our next dive. Our second dive of the day was even better; Koh Wao a secluded cove in Ang Thong National Marine Park was piercingly beautiful. The water was so alluring and clear, with a sheltered overhang, which I would later learn housed a massive school of silver fish. Floating through them was like being in the middle of an agile and unified traffic jam. With every move I made, the fish would move in unison around me and the sounds of their shiftings combined into a single deliverance. On our final day of diving we dove at Sail Rock, an amazing site just off of Koh Tao. This site was sensational to say the least. Although it looked demur on the surface, below it blossomed into a beautiful column of reef with fluttering walls, swaying, surging, scampering, and swarming to the pulse of the ocean. After demonstrating our final skills we were fully open water certified! This allowed us, now that we were no longer students, to swim through the reef chimney, which was spectacular. To be totally enclosed in coral and so close to so much unknown life was fascinating. Ascending from a rainbow of fish and coral below, the realization of the unique opportunity I had been afforded hit me. The calmness you encounter below is not something readily attainable on land. Witnessing things that are so incredible and unique, while being weightless and unable to speak allows you the rare opportunity to bask in the pleasure of your own quiet thoughts. We emerged exhilarated and elated.

Drink a Mass at the Hofbrauhaus in Munich

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 17:40:36 +0000

Drinking a mass at the Hofbrauhaus delivers a delicious taste of Germany! This definitive Munich experience provides everything you'd expect when you think of Bavaria: oompah bands, lederhosen, and beer, all done in a big way. Waitresses whiz about the bustling hall balancing several 1 litre beer steins on a tray, as if it's nothing at all. The noisy chatter of over 4,000 thirsty patrons mixes with the catchy music coming from the lederhosen clad band. Looking around the Hofbrauhaus, you'll see people from all over the world, and undoubtedly, they will be laughing, smiling and enjoying a brew. The vigor is contagious here, you can't help but be happy, and of course a few extremely large beers doesn't hurt the cause. This massive traditional beer hall, consists of several areas to enjoy your stein of beer. The Hofbrauhaus ground floor, Schwemme, houses row after row of wooden benches and tables with tales of antiquity etched into them. Thousands of names carved layer upon layer into these historic tables, tell tale of the popular pass time for boozy tourists. The second floor, Bräustüberl, is slightly smaller than the first floor accommodating roughly 900 people and serves traditional Bavarian cuisine. You might also be lucky enough to catch some traditional Bavarian signing and dancing here on the festival stage. During the warmer months you can also enjoy your brew in the beer garden. The Hofbrauhaus was established in 1589 by Duke Wilhelm V whose household disliked the beers brewed in Munich at the time. Over the years upon its success, the Hofbrauhaus moved locations and was rebuilt several times. Frequented by Adolf Hitler, the beer hall was used for several functions to declare Nazi policies. During a bomb strike in 1944, much of the Hofbrauhaus was destroyed, although the Schwemme remained. During the reconstruction in 1958 to honour Munich's 800th birthday, the Hofbrauhaus was rebuilt again in its original style. Although the Hofbrauhaus has a rap for packing in tourists, you can still find many a local here, evident in the rows of reserved tables throughout the hall. These tables are saved for local patrons who come often, and even have their own beer steins which are kept in a locked cupboard. This is a place that can't be missed during a trip to Munich. It maybe a little cheesy, but the fact of the matter is the Hofbrauhaus is a whole lot of fun, and that's all that matters! Whether traveling as a single or in a group, this is a great experience. Munich is known for their friendly locals, so pull up a chair, grab a beer, and make some new friends! Eins, zwei g'suffa!

Sleep Under the Stars in Khao Sok Rainforest

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 08:02:50 +0000

The formidable curves of the road didn't effect our local bus drivers speed one bit, as we casually hugged the corners of the mountain clinging highway. Climbing higher and higher, the trees around us seemed to grow exponentially with our altitude. The extensive country side of Khao Sok unfolded before us as we forged on toward our destination for the weekend, Tree Tops Jungle Lodge and Safari in Khao Sok National Park. After a quick 3 hour bus trip from Phuket, we arrived at the lodge, a lush eden nestled alluringly against a massive limestone crag, a common feature in the evergreen landscape of Khao Sok. Located in southern Thailand among the densely forested outskirts of the Khao Sok National Park, Tree Tops has established an unrivaled presence in experiential stays and park exploration. Khao Sok Park is home to the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world, and offers an abundance of adventure activities such as elephant trekking, canoe excursions, river tubing, wildlife kayak tours, mountain trekking, cave exploration, monkey temples, waterfall walks and night safaris. We settled into relaxation mode right away and headed out with our driver and guide to experience some of the most exquisite elephant trekking in all of Thailand. The two hour trek took us deep into to the natural terrain of the rainforest, lined with massive stalks of bamboo and giant evergreen trees. Plodding along the rugged path, our elephant ambled over rocky terrain that at some points required him to make gigantic steps 5 feet high which he did with masterful ease. Having done such a wonderful job, we made sure to reward his hard work, staying on to feed him four baskets of bananas afterwards. After our trek we moved to the Klong Sok River for a two hour canoe tour. Depending on the season you can also choose to tube down this river if the water level is high enough. Our experienced guide gracefully glided us down the river pointing out wildlife such as lizards, frogs, snakes, and birds. As he paddled, he stopped to allow us to take pictures and approach wildlife for a closer look. Exploring the river was exquisite as you wind through enormous limestone cliffs, whose brilliance was only magnified by being right at their base. After drifting to the end of the river, our last stop of the day was a sacred monkey temple, conveniently located right beside the Lodge. Like many other cheeky macaque monkeys found in Asia, these were no different. By no means shy, these monkeys jumped and climbed on any and everything to get to the food we brought. A fun and close up experience with some local wildlife! Following a delicious meal in the huge open air dining room at Tree Tops, we settled into our room for the night as evening approached, a tree house set in the canopy of the Khao Sok forest. Our balcony offered us a real time nature channel right before our eyes, swarming with exotic bugs, bats, and other unknown creatures. This natural setting was pleasantly relaxing, as we fell asleep to the lively hum of the nightlife around us. Early the next morning we headed to Chiao Lan reservoir dammed by the Ratchaprapha dam, to journey deep into the heart of Khao Sok National Park, and move to our new accommodations, the Tree Tops raft houses. Khao Sok is a huge park covering over 739 km², and as we sailed through the alluring blue freshwater lake, we were overwhelmed with the beautiful scenery. Scattered with hundreds of huge limestone crags covered in lush greenery, a sense of rare splendor manifested. No two cliffs the same, each was aged and eroded by time to display a unique sense of being, full of caves and trees that grew straight out from the cliff with no notice of the sharp angle. Simply serene. Approximately two hours by car and boat we arrived at the raft houses, a set of 19 simple bamboo and thatched style huts, equipped with a mattress, bug net, and a small back porch to swim off of. Extremely basic, but beautiful in their simplicity. As we approached the huts in our long tail boat, we could see Gibbons jumping from tree to tree on the nearby island. After a quick bite to eat we promptly readied for ourselves for a mountain hike. A demanding climb was forewarned, and it delivered on its promise. After about two hours of hiking through the forest we came to the peak of our climb. The final 200 m assured to challenge the last bit of our determination, as we clambered over sheer and jagged rock face. Perched percariously at the top of a small cliff, drenched in sweat, we reached the view point, a view which invited a silent awe. The stunning landscape allowed a commanding view of Khao Sok Park, a view which was intimately ours, off the beaten path. Two and a half hours later, we were back at the raft house celebrating with some Singha's over dinner. Exhausted from the heat and effort from our trek, we happily went to bed early. Waking to a symphony of exotic birds singing, we sat on our small back porch and enjoyed the sunrise. Although the accommodations were not luxurious, we felt flush with an abundantly captivating vista, sun glistening off the waters and peeking through the tree tops. The raft house accommodations were a highlight of our entire South East Asia trip, offering the best in back to nature experiences you can find. Setting out for an early kayak tour around our island, the moist morning air infused with the scent of sweet local flowers created a savoury sensory experience. With the sun rising in the distance, we quietly paddled around the island viewing countless tucans and even a few Gibbons.

Teaching English Abroad: A Simple Life

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 02:19:59 +0000

Thinking of teaching English abroad but finding yourself with various unanswered questions? Well, I can tell you in three words that teaching abroad is a great and popular experience... it's 'a simple life.' There are various reasons why people decide to pick up and leave the comforts of their homes in order to experience working in a different country. First, many individuals see teaching English abroad as a win-win situation. You have the opportunity to leave home while experiencing a new culture. Some may simply just need a change of scenery. Others will use this opportunity to try and save money to travel or pay off debt. Finally, numerous people will decide to teach English abroad simply because it is new, exciting and different from the everyday norm. There are also many questions that go along with researching options for teaching English abroad. What skills do I need? Where should I go? How do I get there? When should I be looking for a job? Who should I contact to apply? And lastly, why should I experience teaching abroad? The most obvious skill that one must possess is that you are fluent in the specific language the school is specializing in. For English, an applicant must be from a country where English is the native language. For example, to teach English abroad you must be from Canada, America, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Australia or New Zealand. In many countries, another main qualification schools are looking for is a university degree. Both three and four year degrees are accepted. If you have a college diploma, you must inquire with specific schools in regards to whether or not that is acceptable. Some schools will accept a college diploma and others will not. Additional skills that schools approve of include previous teaching experience, a Test of English as a Foreign Language Certificate (TOEFL) and a major discipline in English as part of your university education. Working with kids at a summer camp or whatnot can also give you the inside edge over other applicants. Looking for English teaching jobs abroad is easy-peezy, lemon-squeezy. There are many online websites that have hundreds of jobs available, as well as recruiters on these same websites where you can send your resume and preferences (hours, salary, location, etc.) and they will find a job for you. The schools, or your recruiter, will review your resume and photos and then contact you. Questions that you will be asked vary but usually consist of why you want to teach English abroad and your personal experiences with children. Any volunteer work with students, summer camp work with youngsters or even babysitting experience should be made known during the interview. Also, express your passion for children and excitement regarding living in a foreign country and learning about a new culture. These can all be very helpful in securing a position teaching English abroad. Now, you must decide where it is exactly that you want to teach. The lifestyle, culture, scenery, money, living conditions, etc., will all be factors in deciding where you want to teach English. Among English teachers around the world, it is generally known that South Korea is where you can SAVE the most money. You may be able to make more money in say Japan, but it costs a lot more for general expenses such as food, entertainment and nightlife. Look into a few specific factors when deciding where to teach English abroad. First, you must look into the safety of the country. This does not mean reading newspaper articles to determine the safety of the nation, but rather get in touch with people who have been or are currently stationed in that country. Second, you need to find out what the pay is like in comparison to the living expenses. Next, find out what perks will be given to you in each country. The number of vacation days, working hours, overtime pay, apartment fees and flight compensation should all be looked into. In South Korea, they pay for your flight there and upon the completion of a year contract they will also pay to fly you home. They will also give you a full month's salary bonus at the end of the year, as well as pay for your apartment for the entire year. You may be required to pay utilities but that is generally only around US$100 per month. Take all of these aspects of your contract into consideration when making your decision on where to teach English. Each country is clearly different but many places have a couple of dates on the calendar that are the best times to find a job. February and August are usually very popular times to find work, but there are always jobs available at any time of the year. It will just depend on the demand of the country at that particular time. Teaching English abroad takes a special person. There are three things you will have to do while teaching English abroad: 1 - Embrace and engage in the culture of your chosen country. 2 - Be open to meeting people from all over the globe. 3 - HAVE FUN! You're in control of your experience. If you want to have fun, you will come home with the greatest things to convey to friends and family. If you don't, it will be a long and annoying time in your country of choice. Hopefully this helps give you some insight into teaching abroad and more importantly the inside track to joining many others who enjoy 'a simple life' teaching English abroad.

Experience 'Nam at the Cu Chi Tunnels

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 14:06:32 +0000

A trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels is a strange, and in some ways, deeply emotional experience. Here the curious may crawl down the tiny tunnels that comb the jungle floor, watch animated mannequins reenact daily life during the Vietnam War, and examine some pretty brutal booby traps, oddly enough, all presented by cheerful and enthusiastic guides. Now a war memorial park, the 120 km long Cu Chi Tunnel network was once used by Vietcong fighters during the Vietnam War and functioned as the base of operations for the Tet Offensive in 1968. Today, the museum recreates the living quarters, battle techniques, and hiding places that enabled the Vietcong forces to withstand years of battle with a technologically superior enemy. For Westerners, seeing the war experience from the other perspective throws a very thought-provoking light on the war and the mindset of the modern day Vietnamese. Upon our arrival at the Cu Chi Tunnels, a guide brought us to a dugout room where an introductory film was playing. Although I am not American, my husband is, and so we sat there squirming uncomfortably in our chairs while the black and white propaganda film showed scene after scene of young Vietcong fighters, some scarcely more than children, shooting at American soldiers. That was only the beginning. The rest of the tour took us through the jungle, where parts of the Cu Chi Tunnels had been staged to look as they had when they were being used during the war. Some parts of the Cu Chi tour were quite fun and interesting – as one of the smaller-boned tourists, I was allowed to slip into one of the trapdoors leading into the tunnel network. I squatted in the cramped, dark tunnel, up to my knees in dry leaves. As the guide fitted the trapdoor back into place above me, I was enveloped by pitch-black darkness; briefly glimpsing into the conditions and claustrophobia the fighters must have experienced living in the tunnels. Over 6,000 Vietnamese lived, fought and worked in the Cu Chi Tunnels during the 1960's - 1975, and due to these strained living conditions sickness was rampant. Sometimes forced underground for days at a time due to bombings, the Vietnamese would face poisonous insects, scarce air and food supplies, and wearying battles against Malaria. The reality of wartime conditions continued to sink in as we were instructed to walk, backs bent, down a section of the 3-foot tall tunnel. One can only imagine the endurance it must have taken to live, day in and day out, in these tiny passageways. Several of the booby traps used to injure or kill enemy soldiers were also on display at the Cu Chi Tunnels. Our guide proudly demonstrated how trapdoors were built in the jungle floor, ready to swing open and impale unsuspecting soldiers on sharp stakes, the iron used to make them scavenged from unexploded ordinances dropped by the Americans. Not all of the tour was so grisly, however. We were treated to a snack of boiled cassava dipped in peanuts and sugar as we explored a dugout kitchen, and took a few minutes to pose for a photo in front of an American army tank. At the end of the tour, those who wanted to could purchase a few rounds and fire an assault rifle at the firing range. Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels turned out to be one of our most memorable adventures in Vietnam. Although it was at times, a disquieting experience, it was also interesting, fun, and one of the best ways to start exploring Vietnam’s War history and culture. The tunnels remain today as a symbol of the perseverance and determination that the Vietnamese people employed against a technologically superior enemy on one of the most famous battlegrounds of the Vietnam War.

Punting and the River Cam

Thu, 22 May 2008 17:52:10 +0000

Enjoy the quiet sounds of summer as you punt along the River Cam. This simple pleasure preserves an old English tradition initially used for cargo transport in Cambridge, it is now used purely for pleasure and the occasional race. This relaxing row will allow you to indulge in some beautiful views of weeping willows along the banks of some the most treasured archeological buildings in England such as the University of Oxford, the oldest english speaking University started in 1249. Punting the Cam River costs about £10, and you can hire this service at any of the following locations Jesus Green , Trinity College, Grantchester, Silver Street bridge, Mill Lane, and Magdalene Bridge. The first two weeks of June offer an even finer experience as exams are finishing warranting some good old fashion fun for all to enjoy such as boat races, balls, and open theater.

Thailand's Elephant Parade

Sun, 24 Feb 2008 23:30:06 +0000

Trunk to tail the procession of gentle giants mosey onward during the Elephant Round Up held in Surin Thailand, every third weekend of November. A relatively recent developed tradition, it originated from citizens training elephants as working animals, but later due the Civil War in Cambodia and the logging ban of 1989 that put thousands of elephants out of work, handlers turned to entertainment to earn a living. Each year over 200 Elephants gather together in this Eastern part of Thailand to entertain, charm, and astonish visitors with their feats of strength and skill during games such as tug of war and football. One of the more hands on events is the Elephant Breakfast held on the Friday morning. Chains of Elephants carrying dignitaries, tourists and their handlers also known as Mahouts, saunter into town and congregate at the roundabout in the south end of the city, where a feast of fruit is devoured. Tourists and locals get a chance to mingle with these massive mammals and feed them first hand. Saturday and Sunday the Elephants convene at the Stadium for displays of skill and mastery with music, games, and an array of traditional customs and attire.

Dance through Cobblestone streets during Carnival in Rio de Janeiro

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 20:55:48 +0000

Rio de Janeiro savors the title of Carnival Capital of the world, as it hosts the largest, wildest, most indulgent Carnival celebrations annually. The public celebration includes street parties, parades, circuses and masquerades. Some of Carnivals attractions are free like the street carnival but others like the Samba Parade and the marvelous Balls are not, so look to book your tickets in advance. The Samba parade, the highlight for many, takes place from dusk till dawn at the Sambodromo, a 700 meter long parade strip. This show is the stage for an exhilarating competition by the top 14 samba schools, each outfitted in lavish costumes, despite that the participants are usually from the poorest neighborhoods. Each school is accompanied by marching samba bands, floats, and of course the flamboyant scantily clad dancers and singers. With a single school reaching upwards of 4000 people it’s easy to imagine the enormity of the party, as well as the chaos. To avoid pure chaos the organizers give a theme to each year and spend countless hours choreographing and rehearsing to make the parade a seamless ensemble. The atmosphere is so energetic and beats so catchy, that you'll be hard pressed to stop yourself from dancing.