I visited the 9/11 Memorial in NYC earlier this year, and it’s a respectable dedication to all those lost and those that sacrificed to help during the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center.

9/11 Memorial in Pictures

National September 11 Memorial

The National September 11 Memorial is a tribute of remembrance and honor to the nearly 3,000 people killed in the terror attacks of September 11, 2001 at the World Trade Center site, near Shanksville, Pa., and at the Pentagon, as well as the six people killed in the World Trade Center bombing in February 1993.

The Memorial’s twin reflecting pools are each nearly an acre in size and feature the largest manmade waterfalls in the North America. The pools sit within the footprints where the Twin Towers once stood. Architect Michael Arad and landscape architect Peter Walker created the Memorial design selected from a global design competition that included more than 5,200 entries from 63 nations.

The names of every person who died in the 2001 and 1993 attacks are inscribed into bronze panels edging the Memorial pools, a powerful reminder of the largest loss of life resulting from a foreign attack on American soil and the greatest single loss of rescue personnel in American history. – via the 9/11 Memorial Website

Walking Towards the 9/11 Memorial

9/11 Memorial Entrance

9/11 Memorial Entrance

9/11 Memorial in Pictures

9/11 Memorial in Pictures

9/11 Memorial in Pictures

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – Freedom Tower

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – Missing Reflections

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – Reflecting Pool

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – Museum

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – Reflecting Pool and Museum

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – Reflecting Pool

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – NYC Backdrop

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – Names

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – Reflecting Pool

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – NYC Backdrop

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – Freedom Tower

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – Memorial Grounds

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – All Glass

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – Shining Reflecting Pool

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – Gazing Up

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – Memorial Grounds

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – North Pool Sign

9/11 Memorial in Pictures – USA Flag

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Bolivia Travel – Inca Ruins on Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun) is located on Lake Titicaca in Bolivia’s southern region. It’s a great day hike for travelers looking for beautiful views of the lake and and Inca Empire ruins. Read more travel tips on visiting Isla del Sol. The island was considered very sacred for the Incas and they believed the Sun God was born here. These pictures were taken during our hike from the northern end of the island to the southern end, where we found a hostel room and spent the evening watching the sun set. Be prepared to do some heavy walking up and down this rocky and hilly terrain.

Bolivia Travel – Camping Beach on North side of Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Beach on the North side of Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – North area of Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – A Donkey on Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Aracely at Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Sheep on Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Sheep on Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Trail on Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Aracely Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Inca Ruins on Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Inca Ruins Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Inca Ruins on Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Aracely at Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Jason filming on Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – The Trail on Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Jason hiking on Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Hiking Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Hiking Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Enjoying lunch on Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Sunset on Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Bolivia Travel – Sunset on Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

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Guest post from Meg Rulli of Landing Standing.

Shortly into our trip around the world, Tony and I discovered that trying local cuisines is our favorite part of traveling. There is so much you can learn about a culture and the history of a location through its food.

Plus, in almost every country we have visited, the food has been spectacular.

Our RTW trip began in South America, which was a perfect place to whet our appetites for all the great cuisines we would be tasting across the globe.

Here were some of our most memorable eats from this magnificent continent:

Chilean Food

Our first stop on our RTW adventure began in Santiago, Chile in January. It was here where we used some of our recent Christmas money to splurge on elegant meals,

Chilean Food in Santiago, Chile

learned how to properly cook fresh fish in our hostel after visiting the Mercado Central fish market,

Fish - Chilean Food in Santiago, Chile

and discovered our love for Lomito sandwiches and croquettes.

Lomito Sandwiches - Chilean Food in Santiago, Chile

Croquettes – Chilean Food in Santiago, Chile

For part of our trip in Santiago, we had the privilege to stay with friends that lived in the city and got to enjoy authentic family meals of mouthwatering Machas a la Parmesana and baked Chilaquiles.

Machas a la Parmesana - Chilean Food in Santiago, Chile

Baked Chilaquiles - Chilean Food in Santiago, Chile

During our hiking adventures down in Patagonia, we also were surprised to learn that the best empanadas in the country came from tiny roadside stands, where they were freshly baked or fried on the spot. YUM!

Empanadas - Chilean Food from Patagonia, Chile

Empanadas de Horno - Chilean Food from Patagonia, Chile

Argentina Food

It’s a shock I didn’t gain weight in Argentina, considering how much food I ate. I guess a huge part of this was because I was subconsciously following the Atkins Diet while I was there. Argentina is known for its delicious meats and steaks and it did not disappoint.

Asado – Argentina Food

The steak and meat came in all shapes and sizes.

Lomo – Argentina Food

Meat – Argentina Food

And whether we went to the local butcher and grilled them up ourselves, or had them dining out, steaks were delicious and cheap. I was in heaven.

Pork – Argentina Food

Meat – Argentina Food

Meat – Argentina Food

Despite the popularity of meat in Argentina, veggies are also accessible and plentiful (ignore rumors to the contrary).

Vegetable Plate – Argentina Food

Argentina also has wonderful dishes, such as pickled and fried eggplant, Spanish tortillas, fired chard, stuffed mushrooms, homemade potato crisps, and empanadas galore!

Pickled Eggplant - Argentina Food

Fried Eggplant – Argentina Food

Fried Chard - Argentina Food

Stuffed Mushrooms - Argentina Food

Homemade Potato Crisps - Argentina Food

We found that Buenos Aires was also a melting pot of cultures. There are many Italian immigrants in the city, which means Buenos Aires has some exquisite Italian food.

Pizza – Argentina Food

Cured Meats on Bread – Argentina Food

Proscuitto Sandwich – Argentina Food

Buenos Aires is also known for their vibrant Closed Door Dining scene, where you can visit underground restaurants that serve up fantastic Asian fusion cuisine at a chefs home.

Asian Fusion Cuisine – Argentina Food

Asian Fusion Cuisine – Argentina Food

Asian Fusion Cuisine – Argentina Food

But apart from the amazing red meat and variety of cuisines scattered throughout Buenos Aires, Argentina knows how to excel in ice cream and desserts.

Ice Cream – Argentina Food

Ice Cream – Argentina Food

Dessert – Argentina Food

I never went a day in Argentina without a daily dose of ice cream or chocolate.

Bolivian Food

We did not spend too much time in Bolivia and did not get a chance to try many of the local dishes (although, we heard from many backpackers that Bolivia lacked in the food scene). However, Lake Titicaca was the perfect place to get fresh trout straight from the lake. With fish this fresh, the simplest preparations are best.

Fresh Trout (trucha) – Bolivian Food

Peruvian Food

We travelled to Peru to hike stunning Machu Picchu, but we got the added bonus of eating like kings during our three weeks in the country. Peru was where we were able to get adventurous with our pallets and try the local favorites in Cusco, such as Yuquitas Rellenas and Cuy (a.k.a. Guinea Pig).

Yuquitas Rellenas - Peruvian Food

Cuy (Guinea Pig) - Peruvian Food

One of my favorite days in Cusco was spent at the Choco Museo learning the history of cacao production in Peru all while making our very own chocolate treats.

Chocolate Treats – Peruvian Food

After hiking cold Machu Picchu for four days, we were boiling in the summer heat when we arrived in Lima, but loved cooling off with refreshing and citrusy plates of Lima’s famous fresh ceviche.

Ceviche - Peruvian Food

We also made sure to hit up happy hour for some thirst quenching Pisco Sours with Cancha Salada.

Pisco Sour - Peruvian Food

Judging aside, by the time we arrived in Peru, we were missing some of our home favorites and had to indulge in some American classics.

American Food in Peru

Before you roll your eyes in disgust, Peruvian McDonald’s make some mean McFlurries!

McDonald’s Available Everywhere

South America treated our bellies very well. We will always remember the meals that we had and everything we learned about the culture in Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru through their remarkable dishes.

Have you ever travelled to South America? What were some of your favorite local dishes?

Her name is Meg and his name is Tony. They left their jobs to go RTW and try out this location independent thing. They are aspiring entrepreneurs & digital nomads that blog about travel, food, and all things ridiculous. Follow the journey at Landing Standing.

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Guest post from Josh and Caroline Eaton of Traveling 9 to 5.

It’s all you hear about when researching an African Safari.  They are the biggest, most dangerous, and by far the most popular animals in Africa. These are the animals you’ll be awed by, but you don’t want to mess with.

African Safari – An Elephant Herd

You might be unaware that these aren’t the 5 biggest animals, but the most dangerous and expensive to hunt on foot. Even if you are just “hunting” with your telephoto lens, you’ll be on the lookout for all of these spectacular mammals. We spent all three weeks in Botswana and Namibia on a self-drive safari and were lucky enough to see each of the Big 5 along with hundreds of other animals. The Big 5, in no particular order:

1. African Elephant

Your first reaction will be awe and amazement at the beautiful, enormous and seemingly gentle animals of Africa. A large herd of 30+ elephants is a highlight of anyone’s safari, especially watching the babies interact with the adults and fumble around while they learn how to use their trunks, but if you get too close, you’ll see this!

African Safari – A warning from an agitated Elephant

And you might not breathe for a minute or two, as this massive animal looks you in the eye and sizes you up. If you live through the experience, you’ll observe fascinating behavior, as elephants are constantly moving, digging, spraying, growling, drinking and eating.

African Safari – Elephant digging for mud near the Chobe River

The elephant is probably the easiest of the Big 5 to see, especially in Botswana, where they are around every curve, even outside the parks!

2. Rhinoceros

The rhinoceros is severely endangered, and therefore very difficult to find in the wild. We badly wanted to see one of these big-horned mammals which led us to the Khama Rhino Sanctuary in Botswana. With only 30 rhinos, a sighting isn’t guaranteed, but we were lucky enough to spot a mother and baby rhino on our first trip to the water hole. If it weren’t for the lighted watering holes at Okaukuejo in Etosha National Park, the sanctuary would have been the only place to see this amazing creature.

African Safari – A Rhino Mommy and her Baby at the Khama Rhino Sanctuary

African Safari – Mommy Rhino inspecting us, protecting it’s baby

African Safari – Rhinos at Night near our Campsite at the Okaukuejo Waterhole

3. African Cape Buffalo

Buffalo may not seem like the most exciting animal to come across, but they are regarded as the most dangerous of the Big 5, having caused the most hunter casualties. These extremely powerful animals can charge and knock out or gore their prey with their massive horns. The horns are fused on top the head in a bone shield called a “boss” which has been known to stop rifle bullets! You’ll mainly observe the buffalo grazing, but keep your distance so you don’t experience “the boss” firsthand.

African Safari – Buffalo Up Close in a stare down with us

African Safari – Grazing Buffalo in the Moremi Game Reserve

African Safari – African Buffalo enjoying the Chobe River

4. Lion

The lion needs no introduction. The “king of the jungle” (yet they live out in the savannah) sits atop the food chain, and is by far most sought out animal on an African Safari. The great thing about lions is that if you find one, you’ll probably see several as they are rarely alone. Your best chance of some action is during the very early morning or late evening when they hunt. During the day, lions can be found lounging in the shade or sleeping under a tree. Unless you’re very lucky, you’ll hear about a spotting from another safari-goer and race over to join the crowd of 4x4s surrounding a pride of apathetic predators.

African Safari – Lion Pride waiting for lunch

African Safari – A Curious Male Lion

African Safari – Lioness on the Prowl

5. Leopard

The leopard was the final Big 5 animal we saw, and is usually the most elusive, which makes a sighting that much more exciting. This predator tries to get within 5 yards of its prey before pouncing, and that same stealth keeps it hidden from your untrained eye. You might spot one sleeping up in a tree, or relaxing in the shade. They are solitary hunters, unlike the lion, so spotting just one is quite an event.

African Safari – Leopard resting in the shade

African Safari – A Leopard guarding it’s meal

African Safari – Leopard on the banks of the Chobe River

The Big 5 is at the top of everyone’s African Safari checklist. While our hearts raced when we found any of these, we quickly fell in love with the zebra, wildebeest, hippo and warthog running about. Each game drive is unique and exciting in its own way. While an African Safari isn’t usually included in a standard backpacker’s budget, this is a once in a lifetime experience you can’t miss!

Josh and Caroline Eaton are the creators of Traveling 9 to 5. From Chicago, IL, they’ve quit their corporate jobs, sold (almost) all of their belongings and are currently writing and traveling around the world hoping to inspire others to say yes to their own adventure.

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It’s Memorial Day Weekend in the United States of America. Families pack their cars Thursday night, hoping to get out of work early Friday to escape the usual traffic headaches. It’s a great thing to spend some time with family enjoying life, but it’s also important to remember those that enabled the wonderful life we get to live in the USA. To honor those that have fallen and fought for our freedoms, we share this collection of photos from our visit to the new National WWII Memorial in Washington D.C.

If you haven’t been to the National Mall in Washington D.C. recently, it’s a good time to visit. Both the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and the World War II Memorial are spectacular to see.

To see these images in HD full width, click on each image.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The National Mall was still being worked on in early 2012.  We will visit again when it’s complete.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

Don’t do this.  Aracely always breaks the rules for a good Facebook picture.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

The World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

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On the third Monday of January, the United States will be celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, a federal holiday marking the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

The idea of Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a holiday was promoted by labor unions in contract negotiations. After King’s death, United States Representative John Conyers (a Democrat from Michigan) and United States Senator Edward Brooke (a Republican from Massachusetts) introduced a bill in Congress to make King’s birthday a national holiday. The bill first came to a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1979. However, it fell five votes short of the number needed for passage. Two of the main arguments mentioned by opponents were that a paid holiday for federal employees would be too expensive, and that a holiday to honor a private citizen would be contrary to longstanding tradition (King had never held public office). Only two other persons have national holidays in the United States honoring them: George Washington, the first President of the United States, and Christopher Columbus, the navigator, colonizer, and explorer from the Republic of Genoa, whose voyages across the Atlantic Ocean led to general European awareness of the American continents. – Wikipedia

Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Things to do in Washington D.C.

On August, 22, 2011, the Martin Luther King Memorial was opened. Located in Washington, D.C., southwest of the National Mall, it’s one of the most dramatic sculptures we have ever seen. It’s a large scale Martin Luther King, Jr. carved out of a rock, representing a piece from King’s famous speech.  If your looking for things to do in Washington D.C., this is a must!

The centerpiece for the memorial is based on a line from King’s “I Have A Dream” speech: “Out of a mountain of despair, a stone of hope.” A 30 feet (9.1 m)-high relief of King named the “Stone of Hope” stands past two other pieces of granite that symbolize the “mountain of despair.” Visitors literally “pass through” the Mountain of Despair on the way to the Stone of Hope, symbolically “moving through the struggle as Dr. King did during his life.” – Wikipedia

Martin Luther King Memorial Photos

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

A man who won’t die for something is not fit to live.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

A right delayed is a right denied.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Almost always, the creative dedicated minority has made the world better.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Our scientific power has outrun our spiritual power. We have guided missiles and misguided men.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Philanthropy is commendable, but it must not cause the philanthropist to overlook the circumstances of economic injustice which make philanthropy necessary.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Rarely do we find men who willingly engage in hard, solid thinking. There is an almost universal quest for easy answers and half-baked solutions. Nothing pains some people more than having to think.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

The quality, not the longevity, of one’s life is what is important.

Aracely paying respects to the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

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Barcelona's City Hall at Night - Travel Barcelona

Luis Cicerone of Xixerone.com shares his pictures of Barcelona during a night stroll.

A night walk around Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter or Barrio Gótico is a must for every visitor eager to experience a part of the soul of a city packed with architectural wonders, cultural gems, sunny beaches and exciting nightlife.

Catalonia's Regional Government Palace at Night - Travel Barcelona

I tend to think every place has got a million different faces, a million feelings to be experienced.

Behind the Cathedral at Night - Travel Barcelona

Every time we travel somewhere, we get to see a couple, maybe a few of those faces, we get to experience only a tiny part of what makes a destination unique. Some of these traits are only shown to us when a certain trigger is activated.

Tourists walk around the Cathedral at Night - Travel Barcelona

A cloudy day, light rain, a special festivity, or even a recent shock could bring to the surface different personalities within the same city. London feels different when it’s sunny.

Gothic Window at Night - Travel Barcelona

Are the places we go to at night the same we visited in the morning? They surely change. Shadows climb on walls earlier filled with light, disfigured statues mock passers-by and shady characters wander around the darkest corners of town.

A Gothic gargoyle on Carrer del Bisbe - Travel Barcelona

Ghostly Reliefs - Travel Barcelona

The Gothic Quarter in Barcelona is no exception, at night, some of the narrow streets in the neighborhood become obscure and scary, they almost seem taken from a horror book.

Ghostly figure near Plaça de Sant Felip Neri at Night - Travel Barcelona

Tourists having dinner near Sant Just i Pastor Church at Night - Travel Barcelona

And although I would love to say that the whole barrio is a secluded and quiet oasis in the middle of the bustling city, I won’t lie. By night, hordes of paella-hungry tourists converge in the areas around the main sights. The Cathedral, Las Ramblas or Portal del‘Àngel avenue become crowded with visitors as well as locals.

Barcelona is touristy, day and night - Travel Barcelona

Gothic Quarter at Night - Travel Barcelona

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Children of Angkor, Cambodia

Joe Owens of A Couple Vagabonds shares photos of children he and his girlfriend met when traveling to Angkor, Cambodia.

Travel Cambodia

The Angkor region of Cambodia, near Siem Reap, is home to the incredible Angkor Wat temple. The area is best known for Angkor Wat, but there are literally hundreds of other temples and magnificent sites to see in the area. One thing that all of these sites have in common is the dozens of children working and playing in their shadows.

Cambodia Children

Most of these kids are working trying to help feed their families by selling jewelry, books about the temples, postcards and other souvenirs. Some of them were just playing in these ancient temples because it was in their backyard. All of these incredibly cute kids had an interesting story to tell, sometimes about their large families, how their employer is really some man, how they need to pay off the cops if they are caught selling in certain areas, or how sometimes they had no families at all. These kids are also very smart, they can speak many different languages so they can communicate with many of the tourists. They also know many facts about countries, like their capitals, populations, presidents, and even state capitals in the U.S.

These are some of my favorite pictures of these children in Angkor, Cambodia

Peace - Children of Angkor, Cambodia

Trying to beat the competition to the new customers

Sitting down on the job - Children of Angkor, Cambodia

Waiting for a new target - Children of Angkor, Cambodia

Taking a break to play a game - Children of Angkor, Cambodia

Selling postcards - Children of Angkor, Cambodia

No board or pieces required - Children of Angkor, Cambodia

More postcards - Children of Angkor, Cambodia

Relaxing - Children of Angkor, Cambodia

Friends - Children of Angkor, Cambodia

Looking cute - Children of Angkor, Cambodia

Sisters - Children of Angkor, Cambodia

Taking a break to play tic-tac-toe against the foreigner - “You lose! Now you buy something!”

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Chase Utley for the Philadelphia Phillies at Bat

It’s the last time the Philadelphia Phillies will ever play baseball at Sun Life Stadium in the greater Miami area of Florida.  The Florida Marlins are having a new stadium built in Miami that will be ready for the 2012 baseball season.  As a die-hard Philadelphia Phillies fan, I figured I should take this opportunity to go see my Phillies play at an extremely discounted ticket price.  My brother, back in New Jersey, coaxed me on, by asking why I wasn’t going to the Marlins games to watch the Phillies play in Florida?  I didn’t really have an excuse.  I immediately went online and purchased 2 tickets behind the visitors dugout (the Phillies dugout for this game) for Aracely and I for the next morning.

Pictures of the Phillies

Upon arriving to the game to see the great ‘Doc’ Halladay pitch for the Phillies, I noticed obvious contrasts between this ballpark and the Philadelphia ballpark (Citizens Bank Park).  First, there was no one there.

Sun Life Stadium in Florida (formally Joe Robbie Stadium)

The former Joe Robbie stadium was huge, but the open parking lots made it seem even bigger.  We paid our $10 and pulled within 5 spots of the stadium perimeter.  Basically we were 50 feet from the entrance to the stadium.

Sun Life Stadium in Florida (formally Joe Robbie Stadium)

Tailgating?

There were a few, mostly just couples grilling and a father and son having a catch.  The rowdiness you find in Philly just doesn’t exist here.  It’s not just because it’s Miami, it’s because the Florida Marlins stink.  When the Phillies stunk, no one came to see them either, so I understand.  But, what is unusual is that the majority of the fans attending the game were Phillies fans.  I estimate 80% of the fans to be Philly fans.  That’s a bit crazy.  And that’s where the entire experience seemed awkward, almost like the bizarro world of Seinfeld.   Everywhere we looked, red dominated the color spectrum.

Sun Life Stadium, Mostly Phillies Fans in Red

Great Seats

These were the best seats I have ever had at a Major League Baseball game.  We started 12 rows behind the visitors dugout.  Every few innings we crept closer to the wall.  With our telephoto lens, I was able to get some incredible pictures of the players batting.

Sun Life Stadium in Florida

Before the game we were able to watch the great Roy Halladay warm up. He remains extremely focused during his warmups, avoiding all fan contact. Even with dozens of cameras snapping in his face, he doesn’t flinch.

Roy Halladay Warming Up to Pitch on Sept. 4, 2011 against the Florida Marlins

Philadelphia Phillies First Baseman Ryan Howard

Philadelphia Phillies First Baseman Ryan Howard

Philadelphia Phillies First Baseman Ryan Howard

Philadelphia Phillies First Baseman Ryan Howard

Philadelphia Phillies First Baseman Ryan Howard

Philadelphia Phillies First Baseman Ryan Howard & Pitcher Roy Halladay

Philadelphia Phillies First Baseman Ryan Howard

Philadelphia Phillies Manager Charlie Manuel

During the 6th inning, newly acquired outfielder Hunter Pence hit a ball that lined to the right field wall. The Marlins outfielder made an attempt to jump up and catch the ball high on the wall, but fans reached over the railing and interfered with the catch. As I stated earlier, there was a majority of Phillies fans in the stands that evening. Well, those fans didn’t want that Marlins outfielder catching the ball. After a video replay review the umpires ruled the double an automatic out. Unfortunately for the umpires, this is not a reviewable play and Philadelphia Phillies manager, Charlie Manuel made sure to make that point clear before getting ejected from the game.

Philadelphia Phillies Manager Charlie Manuel

Philadelphia Phillies Manager Charlie Manuel

Philadelphia Phillies Second Baseman Chase Utley

Philadelphia Phillies Second Baseman Chase Utley

Philadelphia Phillies Second Baseman Chase Utley

The Longest Game…

After the young Phillies bullpen gave up the tying run, things got very tense. It was a hot day. We were drenched in humidity from Southern Florida’s tropical weather, recovering from an inning long down pour and now we had to last into extra innings. We stopped complaining as soon as things got interesting. The Phillies pitchers, or should I say Herndon, was struggling as usual and in what seemed like every inning, had a Marlins baserunner on 3rd base ready to score. Miraculously, we got out of it 4 innings. In the last inning after 14, our luck ran out and the Marlins won the hard fought game.

Philadelphia Phillies Pitcher Roy Halladay

Aracely and I watched the last few innings while sitting in the first row of seats behind the Phillies dugout. As the Phillies came in to the dugout each inning, it was almost as if we could have a conversation with them. And sometimes we did, with just a simple, “Amazing Catch Raul!” This was a ballgame I will never forget.

Philadelphia Phillies Vs Florida Marlins on Sept 4, 2011 at Sun Life Stadium

Philadelphia Phillies Catcher Carlos Ruiz

Philadelphia Phillies Third Baseman Placido Polanco

Philadelphia Phillies Center Fielder Shane Victorino

Sun Life Stadium, Florida

Not many baseball teams can say they have a cheerleading squad. Cudos to the Florida Marlins. I wouldn’t expect anything less from Miami.

Florida Marlins Mermaids Cheerleaders Squad

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Girl Posing - Varanasi, India

Samuel Jeffery of Nomadic Samuel captures the faces of India through his lens.

Before descending upon India, I had been backpacking continuously for nearly a year and a half. I was feeling particularly worn down both physically and mentally and the repetitive nature of constantly being on the move and seeing ‘yet’ another temple was beginning to take its toll; however, once I arrived in India, I felt this surge of adrenaline and excitement suddenly – not unlike my first backpacking experience. India was just a whole new ball game compared to anywhere else I had ever been. I’ve often said, and heard others mention that more things happen in India than anywhere else in the world combined. I felt constantly stimulated by what was happening around me.

An India Tour through Pictures

The following photos are a series of ‘distinct faces of India’ from my 2 month journey across Rajasthan, Punjab, Delhi, Agra, Varanasi and Kolkata. Although I barely scratched the surface of this massive country, these candid portraits represent the diversity of the people and regions throughout northern India.

Cute boys excited about having their photo taken - Jaipur, India

India is literally a photographers dream. You could pivot wearing a blindfold with your thumb firmly pressed down on the shutter release button and you’d have a series of great photos. There is just so much going on all at once it’s hard to even focus on what particular subject you want to shoot.

A cute girl posing for a photo at the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) - Amritsar, India

A boy eating rice outside the Jama Masjid - Old Delhi, India

A candid conversation on the street - Jaipur, India

Holy men posing for donations - Jaisalmer, India

Snake charmer playing music - Jaipur, India

A big smile on the motorcycle - Jodhpur, India

Gypsy dancer - Thar Desert, India

Boys playing on bike - Jodhpur, India

Smiling man - Jodhpur, India

Colourful Saris - Jodhpur, India

Waving crowd from the back of the vehicle - Kolkata, India

Carrying pot on head - Calcutta, India

Construction Worker - Dharamsala, India

Monk and Beggar - Mcleod Ganj, India

Child in need of attention - Pushkar, India

Gypsy Man - Thar Desert, India

Man standing outside tempe - Udaipur, India

Man Hauling Cart - Udaipur, India

Boy drinking Chai - Jaisalmer, India

Girl Sitting Down - Udaipur, India

Laughing Ladies - Udaipur, India

Street Shave - Varanasi, India

Bathing at the Ghats - Varanasi, India

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During our Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu we encountered some of the most beautiful flora we have seen during all our travels in South America. Many of the flowers are orchids, since Peru has thousands of species of them.

Plants and Flowers of Machu Picchu

I did my best to look up all the flora from Peru in Google Images, but many times I just couldn’t find the name, and on a few occasions, I couldn’t even find a similar picture. So if you have some flower friends or better Google skills, have at it! Enjoy the plant and flower pictures from Peru.

Best viewed by clicking on an individual photo and advancing with the right arrow key on your keyboard.

Lupinus mutabilis is a species of lupin grown in the Andes for its edible bean. Vernacular names include tarwi, tarhui, chocho, altramuz, Andean lupin, South American lupin, or pearl lupin.

View photos from our Salkantay Hike to Machu Picchu.

Lupinus mutabilis is a species of lupin grown in the Andes for its edible bean. Vernacular names include tarwi, tarhui, chocho, altramuz, Andean lupin, South American lupin, or pearl lupin.

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Slipperwort (Calceolaria)

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Slipperwort (Calceolaria)

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Slipperwort (Calceolaria)

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Is this a Daisy?

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Need help naming this one.

Plants of Machu Picchu - Bromeliad Genus called Puya

Flora surrounding Machu Picchu

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Loasa Grandiflora (Nasa Grandiflora)

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Need help naming this one.

Oncidium is a genus that contains about 330 species of orchids from the subtribe Oncidiinae of the orchid family. Often called Dancing Ladies Orchid

Oncidium is a genus that contains about 330 species of orchids from the subtribe Oncidiinae of the orchid family. Often called Dancing Ladies Orchid

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Need help naming this one.

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Need help naming this one.

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Looks like a type of succulent to me.

Epiphytes - plants that grow on another in a non-parasitic relationship and gets its nutrients from water, dust particles, and the air.

Zantedeschia aethiopica (common names Lily of the Nile, Calla lily, Easter lily, and Arum lily)

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Easter Lily with a Bumblebee inside.

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Another Easter lily, but with a very colorful bug in it.

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Type of Canna Plant

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Type of Canna Plant

Flowers of Machu Picchu - A group of yellow flowers

The pteridophytes are vascular plants (plants with xylem and phloem) that produce neither flowers nor seeds, and are hence called vascular cryptogams. Instead, they reproduce and disperse only via spores. Pteridophytes include horsetails, ferns, and club mosses.

Strap Ferns, perhaps Campyloneurum phyllitidis, also known as Long Strap Fern

Plants of Machu Picchu - A Fern

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Daisy like flowers

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Daisy like flowers with Butterfly

Plants and a Waterfall on railroad near Machu Picchu

Plants and a Waterfall on railroad near Machu Picchu

Plants and a Waterfall on railroad near Machu Picchu

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Couldn't name these

Flowers of Machu Picchu - Railroad to Machu Picchu

Plants of Machu Picchu - Types of plants and trees surrounding a house below Machu Picchu

Plants of Machu Picchu - Types of plants and trees below Machu Picchu

Plants around a small Waterfall

Plants around a small Waterfall

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The Florida Keys exude clear blue green waters, coral reef islands, old sails, pirate stories and spectacular sunrise and sunset ceremonies. The most popular location for watching a sunset in Key West Florida is Mallory Square.  It’s also crowded every evening for the show.  So we bring you some sunset and sunrise photos from Key West that aren’t from Mallory Square.  Enjoy the pictures from Key West campgrounds.

Filming a Panoramic Sunrise in Key West Florida

Key West Sunrise

Highway Lights Reflection Before Sunrise - Florida Keys Sunrise at Boyd's Key West Campground

Florida Keys Sunrise at Boyd's Key West Campground

Sailboats Waking Up - Florida Keys Sunrise at Boyd's Key West Campground

Tall Sailboat Anchored - Florida Keys Sunrise at Boyd's Key West Campground

Tall Sailboat Anchored - Florida Keys Sunrise at Boyd's Key West Campground

Highway Lights Still On - Florida Keys Sunrise from Boyd's Key West Campground

A Peaceful Morning View - Florida Keys Sunrise from Boyd's Key West Campground

Sailboats Resting - Florida Keys Sunrise from Boyd's Key West Campground

Time Lapse Filming - Florida Keys Sunrise from Boyd's Key West Campground

Pelican Flying - Florida Keys Sunrise from Boyd's Key West Campground

Pelican Flying - Florida Keys Sunrise from Boyd's Key West Campground

Highway Lights Off - Florida Keys Sunrise from Boyd's Key West Campground

Bright Sun - Florida Keys Sunrise from Boyd's Key West Campground

Bright Sun - Florida Keys Sunrise from Boyd's Key West Campground

Key West Sunset

Seagulls Flying - Florida Keys Sunset at Boyd's Key West Campground

Florida Keys Sunset at Boyd's Key West Campground

Seagulls & Pelicans on a Boat - Florida Keys Sunset at Boyd's Key West Campground

Florida Keys Sunset at Boyd's Key West Campground

Florida Keys Sunset at Boyd's Key West Campground

Florida Keys Sunset at Boyd's Key West Campground

Moonlight on The Florida Keys

Florida Keys Moonlight from Long Key State Park, Marathon, Florida

Florida Keys Moonlight from Long Key State Park, Marathon, Florida

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A visit to Puerto Rico should include a tour of El Yunque National Forest, the only rainforest in the U.S. National Forest system.

El Yunque National Forest - Misty Rainforest

The forest boasts an abundance of native plants, trees and animals, many of which can only be found here. The tiny rainforest is located on the eastern part of Puerto Rico and enjoys moderate temperatures of 73°F (23°C) year round and is usually covered in mist or it’s raining. So after visiting Fort San Felipe del Morro in Old San Juan, grab your bathing suit and a rain jacket because we can go swimming in this rainforest!

El Yunque National Forest

El Yunque National Forest - Big Tree Trail

How To Get to El Yunque

The forest is only an hour drive from San Juan and easy to navigate to. If you don’t have a car, you can book a tour in town through your hotel or hostel. Puerto Rico is not cheap, so you might be better off renting a car for the day. There are two significant entrances, one from the North and one from the South. The South entrance will add another 30 minutes to your drive and includes the main visitor center.

View from El Yunque El Portal Visitor Center by PLeia2, on Flickr

Things To Do in El Yunque – South Entrance

Accessible from roads PR-191 via PR-31.  PR-191 does not cross over the mountain ridge, but it does exist on both sides of the mountain range.  1.5 hour drive from San Juan, PR.  We found the North park entrance much more exciting.

El Yunque National Forest - A Snail

El Portal Visitor Center

The El Portal Visitor Center for El Yunque provides informative exhibits, rainforest education and a gift shop.  This is not a must see.

El Yunque National Forest - Bamboo at South Entrance Hiking

El Yunque National Forest - Bamboo at South Entrance Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails

There are several hiking trails available from this side, but the constant rain can make them almost impassable.

El Yunque National Forest - Bamboo at South Entrance Hiking Trails

Serious hiking boots are required, as the mud can get almost knee deep in some places. A hike to the ridge of the Luquillo Mountains (Sierra de Luquillo) will take a full day and is only for the experienced hiker due to the constant concern of flash floods.

El Yunque National Forest - Bamboo

We attempted to hike the South trails, but the weather had been too wet and only 10 minutes into the trail we realized the mud was going to get 5″ inches deep. We turned around, got back in our rental car and drove an hour to the North side.

El Yunque National Forest - Plants & Flowers

Things To Do in El Yunque – North Entrance

We highly recommend visiting the North entrance!  You can access the park from roads PR-191 via PR-3.

El Yunque National Forest - Big Tree Trail

This is a very popular tour for day visitors looking to walk the paved trail to waterfalls for a dip.

El Yunque National Forest - Rainforest Flower

La Coca Falls

Along the winding road up to the rainforest of El Yunque you will pass several stop offs, one of which is the large La Coca Falls that cascades down right beside the road.

El Yunque Rainforest La Coca Falls by BluEyedA73, on Flickr

Take a few pictures, but be sure to jump back in your car and continue on up the mountain.

Adam at La Coca Falls, El Yunque Rainforest by BluEyedA73, on Flickr

Yokahu Observation Tower of El Yunque

The tower is accessible from the North entrance. It’s another noticeable stop off the winding road and is properly labeled.

Yokahu Observation Tower, El Yunque Rainforest by BluEyedA73, on Flickr

A paved 25 minute trail leads to the old tower which provides incredible views of the rainforest and the Northeastern part of Puerto Rico Island.

From Inside Yokahu Observation Tower by urbanshoregirl, on Flickr

Big Tree Trail of El Yunque

The most popular trail walk from the North entrance is the Big Tree Trail.

El Yunque National Forest - Hundreds of Plants Growing on a Tree Trunk

The trail will vary in elevation, but it is paved and includes stairs.

El Yunque National Forest - Palm Tree Roots

We advise you to bring running shoes or hiking sandals.

El Yunque National Forest - Palm Tree Roots

The Big Tree trail begins with informational plaques that provide more detail of the rainforest.

El Yunque National Forest - Rainforest Lizard

The goal is to arrive at La Mina Falls and enjoy a cold dip in the water while the waterfall cascades down the rocks over your head.

El Yunque National Forest - Misty Rainforest

This is why we suggest you wear the bathing suit. On a weekend, it can get very crowded. Several, more advanced trails branch out from La Mina Falls.

El Yunque National Forest - Misty Rainforest

Don’t miss the experience of a rainforest in El Yunque, Puerto Rico. The changing climates, mist, constant rain and sounds of the tiny Coqui tree frogs are a must see.

El Yunque National Forest - Bamboo

If you are interested in purchasing any photos, please visit the El Yunque Photo Gallery.

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Having spent 2 months traveling in China, by the end of our trip we’d still only managed to pick up around 5 words: Hello = “Ni hao”, Thank you = “Xiexie”, Rice = “Mifan” and Vegetables = “Shucai”. This is simply the phonetically spelt words and we haven’t even included the accents that accompany them which play such an important role in how a word is pronounced!

But anyway we’re not here to give you a lesson in Chinese grammar! What we would like to do however is talk about how we managed to travel China without being able to speak or understand the language.

Eating out in China!

Having had the experience of eating out in Japan we knew China was on a similar level when it comes to attitudes towards vegetarian cuisine. Not that Helen is a complete vegetarian, as she does eat fish thankfully, but if you are a strict vegetarian then trying to communicate this in restaurants is near impossible as 95% of everything is prepared in some kind of meat or fish based broth.

Learning to solely use chopsticks was a challenge, but within two weeks most dishes could be conquered.

This was a fantastic vegetable noodle soup cooked in Dali in Yunnan province, we managed to communicate vegetarian meal to the cook! But most dishes are prepared with meat or in a meat based broth!

Meat used to be a real luxury in China. Now a thriving economy, most dishes contain meat products.

Various styles of handmade Dim-Sum Dumplings (small portions of food) before they are steamed. (We wish we could say that these are the ones we made!)

We did find a great vegetarian restaurant in Beijing at the bottom of Hou Hai lake but many street food vendors sell meat based buns and snacks, however the sugary fruit on a stick is quite a good little snack and not as sugary as it looks! As we travelled south we came across stinky tofu, this you can smell way down the street before you even pass it – not sure it’s for everyone and the smell was too off-putting for us to try!

Most street vendors are really friendly and will try to accommodate your dietary requirements if possible.

Be it day or night, food is pretty much everywhere you turn. You won

Steamed buns on street stalls, pretty much always contain meat!

Its strange to see your food wiggling their legs whilst impaled. I don't think they waving to say Ni hao!

Small sugar coated fruits on a stick, just like a mini toffee apple.

Stinky Tofu! This is kept a little like stilton cheese, often under the ground before it is ready to be cooked!! It really does smell bad!

Meat is left outside to cure. Not sure how long these had been out for!

Eating the Chinese way. Family and sharing is very important. We also found out that clearing your plate is a sign that your not satisfied! So when full always leave something, otherwise more and more will be delivered!

Hot water is freely available almost everywhere (even trains), so for a snack on a long journey do as the locals do, grab some instant noodles.

You can also get a variety of beers and spirits to compliment your meal. Picnic on Boxing Day (26th Dec).

We found a mandarin phrasebook for £5 whilst visiting the 798 Art district which had a whole section dedicated to food and eating out. Not only was there a description of how to order and how words should be pronounced but the Chinese symbols were also alongside each word so we could show the staff directly what it was we wanted. Still this wasn’t always successful! Ordering vegetables, tofu and a pork dish equated into pork, vegetables and tofu in every dish! But they will taylor what you want especially in the street style open restaurants. Often this is an exciting part of travel, you can’t read the menu, it’s all in traditional Chinese symbols, and so we had to point at the book and see what would come! “Mifan” always got us the rice though!!


Mandarin Phrase book and Point it book can help tremendously.

Quirky sculptures at 798, a place combining contemporary and traditional art, architecture, eateries and bars - a must see if you get time in China. We bought our mandarin to English phrase book from one of the book shops here.

Open fronted street-style restaurants hardly ever have any English in their menus, so the phrasebook came in very handy in these sorts of places! All part of the fun though!

Catching a Train in China!

When we were buying train tickets the book again became very useful, we would push it over the counter and point at the exact phrase we were wanting to use. Eventually we’d always get our tickets. On several occasions we asked the hostel staff to write down which train we wanted to get, the class, and time of departure. Only once did we have to go back to the hostel and change what we were trying to do.

There is an amazing rail network to discover when traveling to China, which is by far more environmentally-friendly than internal flights, and although you may find yourself sitting or lying down on a train for 17 hours, the views are often very rewarding, the company can be fun and interesting and we always found that the locals wanted to chat or offer food even though the language barrier was so evident. Hand gestures and eye contact can go a long way!

It's cheaper to get a top bunk (3rd bed up) on a sleeper train, but make sure you watch your head!

Waking up to another new province on a sleeper train.

Lots of people will try and help, not always successful but they are insistent on trying!

This is part of the charm of being in a country like China. Not everyone speaks English, in fact very few people outside of the major cities do, but there is always a way to communicate through gesture, phrasebooks and expression. We also carried a small ‘point it’ book around with us, but to be honest we hardly ever used it. It’s still a pretty handy thing to have if you get stuck as you can point at a picture or drawing that symbolises what it is you’re trying to communicate.

One thing we would suggest when travelling in China is that you have patience. There is no point in getting worked up about people trying to push in front of you, or spitting their food out on the table beside you. This is all part of their culture. It takes a long time to get anywhere because the distances are so vast and there are so many people trying to get there.

A packed out metro car in the Beijing underground - often a claustrophobic experience, but it’s only 20p per journey in Beijing so it’s very good value for money!

China travel for us was a fantastic experience, a challenge and an array of cultural surprises and shocks, and getting by with our 5 little words made all the difference. Go and explore this vast, wonderful country. You will not regret it.

The future of China.

The wisdom of China.

*All photos in this blog post were supplied by Helen & David at notworkrelated.co.uk

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Glastonbury Music Festival

Josh Aggars of flip flops city shares his experience and photos of the magic and wonder that is the Glastonbury Festival.

Glastonbury Music and Arts Festival

The Glastonbury Festival is like no other music festival on Earth. It is the biggest and best in the UK, a self-policed world where you forget about regular life for a few days and totally tune out.

Well that is my experience anyway. I’ve been going to music festivals around Europe and the U.S. for some 15 years now and Glastonbury remains the unbeaten champion. It’s the charm of the place, the fact that a farmer some 40 years ago decided to turn his land over to a bunch of hippies so that they could put on a small festival that sees that same sense of freedom and adventure enduring to this day.

Unlike most other festivals where an overbearing security set up check your wrist band as you enter and leave arenas, your food and drink is confiscated so that you are forced to purchase from inflated priced official sponsors, at Glastonbury you simply cart in as much as you can carry on the first day and then proceed to get as debauched as your spirit will allow.

Add to that the vast expanse of the place (some 200,000 people squeezed into a valley of 900 acres), the wide mix of people from different age groups and backgrounds, the range of music on offer (some 26 music and theatre stages) and the collective will to set aside differences and just party and it’s hard not to fall in love with the place.

Glastonbury Main Music Stages

The world famous Pyramid Stage, the centrepiece of the festival, this year headlined by U2, Coldplay and Beyonce. The light at the tip of the stage remains on at night and can be seen from all the surrounding hills of the farm. A great way to navigate your way home if confused.

Throughout the day it’s a great place to relax in the sun whilst taking in great bands and costumes!

Glastonbury Festival Crowd

Glastonbury Pyramid Music Stage

Glastonbury Pyramid Music Stage

Glastonbury Pyramid Music Stage

Glastonbury Music Festival

Glastonbury Music Festival

Glastonbury Music Festival

Glastonbury Music Festival

Glastonbury Pyramid Music Stage

Glastonbury Pyramid Music Stage

Glastonbury Music Festival

Glastonbury Park

Glastonbury Pyramid Music Stage

Glastonbury Market Area

Walking around the site you always come across interesting characters, stalls and music. Here in the Market Area there is no shortage of photo opportunities.

Glastonbury Market Area

Glastonbury The Cider Bus

Glastonbury Market Area

Glastonbury Market Area

Glastonbury Market Area

Glastonbury Market Area

Glastonbury Market Area

Glastonbury The Bandstand

Glastonbury The Bandstand

There are always some casualties from a day of drinking and dancing in the sun! A little headache later and no doubt this warrior would be back partying.

Glastonbury Passed Out

Glastonbury Dance Village

The Dance Village is always alive and a great place to warm up for a night of partying ahead.

Glastonbury Dance Village

Glastonbury Dance Village

Glastonbury Dance Village

Glastonbury Pleasure City

By night Glastonbury really comes alive. After the headline acts have left the stage at midnight the party moves to the entertainment fields of Pleasure City otherwise known as Shangri La, Arcadia, The Common, The Unfairground and Block 9.

People arrive in fancy dress to party the night away with the hosts of each venue whether they be Mad Max techno warriors, Mermaids, Ghosts or Other.

Each themed area is home to outside sound stages, clubs, bars and anything else that will leave you doing a double take.

Glastonbury Pleasure City

Glastonbury Pleasure City

Glastonbury Pleasure City

Glastonbury Pleasure City

Glastonbury Pleasure City

Glastonbury Pleasure City

Glastonbury Pleasure City

Glastonbury Campo Pequeno

Glastonbury Pleasure City

Glastonbury Pleasure City

Glastonbury Pleasure City

Glastonbury Pleasure City

Glastonbury Pleasure City

Glastonbury Pleasure City

Glastonbury Pleasure City

Glastonbury Pleasure City

Glastonbury Block 9 Stage

Come dawn and the party continues at the outside Block 9 stage amongst others.

Glastonbury Block 9 Stage

And that is one of thousands of alternative experiences at Glastonbury. Repeat four days in succession and then head home exhausted and in need of a holiday!

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Seaside Heights, New Jersey Boardwalk and Beach

Seaside Heights is a a popular beach town with an amusement-oriented 2 mile plus boardwalk, and numerous clubs and bars, making it a fun party and family atmosphere. The town is also famous for being the location of the hit MTV show “Jersey Shore“. – Wikipedia

We enjoyed enjoyed the boardwalk and beach during Independence Day Weekend and captured these pictures of the Jersey Shore.

New Jersey Boardwalks

New Jersey Boardwalks are full of game stands, pizzerias, souvenir shops, beach gear stores, arcades and ice cream parlors drawing families, teenagers and adults alike. The Seaside Heights boardwalk is bookended by two 300-foot-long (91 m) piers that feature amusement rides, carousels, log flumes, roller coasters, Ferris wheels and more. One of these piers is the world-famous Casino Pier, home to a 1913 circa merry-go-round, the Niagara Falls log flume and the Jet Star roller coaster. The other is the Funtown Amusement Pier home to the Tower of Fear, Seaside’s tallest Ferris wheel and a go-kart track. Many of the businesses are still family-owned and operated and have been almost as long as the boardwalk has been around. – Wikipedia

Seaside Heights, New Jersey Boardwalk

Boardwalk Games in Seaside Heights, New Jersey

Boardwalk Games in Seaside Heights, New Jersey

Boardwalk Rooftop Miniature Golf in Seaside Heights, New Jersey

Skyscraper Ride on Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, New Jersey

New Jersey Boardwalk Arcades in Seaside Heights

New Jersey Boardwalk Food Stands in Seaside Heights

New Jersey Boardwalk Games in Seaside Heights

The Budweiser Bud Man

Casino Pier Sky Ride on the Boardwalk at Seaside Heights, New Jersey

Casino Pier Boardwalk Sky Ride

Seaside Heights, New Jersey Boardwalk

Seaside Heights, New Jersey Boardwalk

Seaside Heights, New Jersey Boardwalk

New Jersey Boardwalk Food Stands in Seaside Heights

Lucky Leo's Arcade in on the Seaside Heights Boardwalk

The Jersey Shore Beaches

New Jersey doesn’t have the warmest beaches, the water rarely gets above 73F (23C), but they still get packed full of people for the Summer.

Jersey Shore - Seaside Heights

Jersey Shore - Seaside Heights

Jersey Shore - Seaside Heights

Jersey Shore - Seaside Heights

Jersey Shore - Seaside Heights

New Jersey Boardwalk Food

Food and games. That’s what you do on the New Jersey Boardwalk. Food is the same throughout all the New Jersey Boardwalks. Mostly specializing in Philadelphia and New York City favorites, which means Italian food. Get your NYC Pizza, Philly Cheesesteaks, Italian Sausage, Curley’s Fries, Ice Cream and Funnel Cakes.

New Jersey Boardwalk Food - 3 Brothers Pizza

New Jersey Boardwalk Food - Kohr's Original Ice Cream & Custard

New Jersey Boardwalk Food - Italian Sausage, Shrimp & Cheesesteaks

New Jersey Boardwalk Food - Marathon Steak & Potato Company

New Jersey Boardwalk Food - NYC Pizza at 3 Brothers Pizza

New Jersey Boardwalk Food - Zeppoles & Funnel Cakes

New Jersey Boardwalk Food - Pizza, Zeppoles, Cheesesteaks, Italian Sausage & Fries

New Jersey Boardwalk Food - Funnel Cake

New Jersey Boardwalk Food - Kohr's Original Ice Cream & Custard Stand

New Jersey Boardwalk T-Shirt Shop

You may find it strange that we are highlighting a T-Shirt shop, but you now know that they are iconic at the New Jersey Boardwalk. Every year we went to the boardwalk we purchased a Jersey Shore T-Shirt. As a kid growing up in the 80′s it was the neon shirts that read, “Wildwood NJ.” Today you can find your typical Jersey slogans and New York and Philadelphia team shirts. Temporary tattoos and piercings are also very popular.

New Jersey Boardwalk T-Shirt Shop - The Shore Store

New Jersey Boardwalk T-Shirt Shop - New Jersey Slogans

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New Jersey Boardwalk T-Shirt Shop [The Shore Store

Get Your Tattoos and Piercings at the Jersey Shore

New Jersey Boardwalk T-Shirt Shop - New Jersey Slogans

MTV Jersey Shore Cast Sightings

These days you can’t talk about the Jersey Shore without a reference to the tremendously popular MTV reality show, “Jersey Shore.” While visiting Seaside Heights, New Jersey during Independence Day weekend we saw several members of the cast on the boardwalk. Hundreds would swarm the stars, taking pictures and video with cell phones. Security surrounded them, attempting to keep order between the fans and those that just wanted to enjoy a stroll on the boards.

MTV Jersey Shore House on top of The Shore Store

MTV Jersey Shore House Rooftop Deck on top of The Shore Store

MTV Jersey Shore House Rooftop Deck on top of The Shore Store

Security Struggles to Keep Perimeter Around MTV Jersey Shore Cast

Security Struggles to Keep Perimeter Around MTV Jersey Shore Cast Pauly D, Ronnie & Sami

MTV Jersey Shore Star Pauly D

MTV Jersey Shore Stars Pauly D, Ronnie & Sami

Snookie & Deena from Jersey Shore Walking on the Boardwalk

Snookie & Deena from Jersey Shore Walking on the Boardwalk

Security Struggles to Keep Perimeter Around MTV Jersey Shore Cast Stars

MTV Jersey Shore Hangout - Karma Night Club

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Luis Cicerone of Las Aventuras del Cicerone shows us Edinburgh through his lens.

They call it the “Athens of the North” for a reason.

For centuries Edinburgh, (pronounced Edin-bra), has been one of the most prominent hotspots for the arts, culture, literature and enlightment in Britain and Europe.

View from Calton Hill

Edinburgh – Athens of the North

For many, the Scottish capital is the most beautiful city in the old continent, and I have to agree. It is called the Athens of the North, but having been to both cities, I think such a nickname does not do any justice to the beauty of Dun Eidin.

View of the city with the Edinburgh Castle in the Background

Victoria Street - Edinburgh

Victoria Street - Edinburgh

The Balmoral Hotel -Edinburgh

The impossibly tall medieval buildings, sombre alleyways and ancient gothic churches of the Old Town loom over like slim, dark ghosts, transporting visitors to former times.

Edinburgh National Monument

Edinburgh National Monument

Being the “Athens of the North” sure comes with a price.

To fill such a name tag, Edinburgh tried to impress the world by building a replica of the Parthenon as a monument to national pride. The titanic works began in 1826, only three years later, money had run out and works had to be suspended. Legend has it that the city of Glasgow offered to donate the money to finish the monument but the City of Edinburgh refused to let its rival city pay for their monument.

Bobby

Greyfriars Bobby

Then there’s Bobby, one of those moving little tales that bring a city to life. According to the story, the little Skye Terrier spent fourteen years guarding his dead master’s grave.

When Bobby died, his loyalty was rewarded by burying him close to his master. Years later, the city of Edinburgh erected a monument to Bobby right next to the Greyfriars graveyard.

Edinburgh Festivals

Edinburgh Pope’s Parade Preparations

Child Bagpiper Playing

I visited Edinburgh on the same weekend the Pope was coming, so I was able to see the parade’s preparations.

Edinburgh Architecture

Red Door - Edinburgh

Blue Door - Edinburgh

Greyfriars Graveyard

Greyfriars Graveyard

And of course, there’s the graveyards. Usually big cities have one famous cemetery, Edinburgh has got at least four.

Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh

Arthur’s Seat Behind the Clouds

Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh

Barely one mile away from the Castle stands Arthur’s Seat, a 800 ft mountain nested in the middle of the city. The almost flat top mountain makes for a wonderful Sunday walk and provides amazing views over Edinburgh and beyond.

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Building Architecture

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Hong Kong by limaoscarjuliet, on Flickr

Josh Aggars of flip flops city shares his experience and photos trying to navigate his way around the wonders of Hong Kong.

Full of street food restaurants and market stalls. I arrived to Hong Kong, China groggy and tired after a 13 hour flight and had a wander around. The area was packed full of natives and backpackers all eating and drinking. It was your typical bustling market atmosphere with Chinese and western music pumping out in equal measure. I wanted to stay but my bed was calling, any bed in fact, even a curb stone would do.

Temple Street Market, 8.30pm (1 hour after touchdown)

I bought an Octopus Card for 5 day travel around the city – Metro, buses, ferries and trams – and retired to bed exhausted but full of anticipation at the road ahead.

Peak Tower at Victoria Peak

Hong Kong Island & Kowloon

Day 1: On my first morning I set off for the Peak Tower at Victoria Peak and caught the Peak Tram up to the top (notice an imaginative naming theme anywhere?). From here I was able to see a full panorama of Hong Kong Island looking across to Kowloon through the haze.

Panorama of Hong Kong Island

In the foreground are the Hong Kong Island skyscrapers. Across the bay is Kowloon / Mainland China.

I came down from the peak by bus and captured these images of residential towers. As a fellow traveller remarked, “You don’t see a house anywhere.”

Hong Kong by Georgio, on Flickr

Hong Kong Tramways

Hong Kong Trams

When we got to the bottom I caught one of the original old local trams to the Star Ferry Terminal.

Hong Kong Trams

Star Ferry Hong Kong

Star Ferry to Kowloon / Mainland China

Star Ferry, Hong Kong by Francisco Diez, on Flickr

Star Ferry Terminal Hong Kong

While looking back to Hong Kong Island from the Star Ferry Terminal, the nice haze/pollution is clearly visible.

Downtown Hong Kong

Hong Kong Cultural Centre

Hong Kong Cultural Centre

The skate-rampesque Hong Kong Cultural Centre is home to some of the best views of Hong Kong from the elevated promenade and observation gallery and stands on reclaimed land.

Hong Kong Cultural Centre

The floats from the Chinese new year celebrations which had just taken place.

Floats from Chinese New Year Celebrations

Hullett House

Old Hullett House Bar

The Old Hullett House bar, part of old colonial Hong Kong, is the former Marine Police HQ and one of the four oldest surviving government buildings. Clearly some things never go out of fashion as they still make a superb gin and tonic.

Hullett House Hong Kong

Hullett House Hong Kong

Happy Valley Hong Kong

Day 2: The next day I took a tram to Happy Valley which is a lush park area with bowls, football, cricket and rugby all being played with the Hong Kong horse racing course around the perimeter. A green oasis in a concrete jungle.

Happy Valley Racecourse

Man Mo Temple

Man Mo Buddhist Temple of Hong Kong

After exploring Cat Street Flea Market, I went onto a Buddhist temple “Man Mo” dedicated to the Gods of Literature and War and lit candles and joss-sticks.

Man Mo Buddhist Temple of Hong Kong

Man Mo Buddhist Temple of Hong Kong

A heady smell of incense wafts round from the giant spiraling coils of incense hanging from the ceiling that are constantly burning.

Sunday Stroll Through Hong Kong

Day 3: I was advised to check out the celebrations on the Sunday where all the migrant Philappino workers get together to picnic and hang out on their only day off. It looked like quite a social club.

Hong Kong Celebrations

Raised Walkways in Hong Kong

The raised walkways are the best way to get around the city on foot.

Hong Kong Buildings

St. Johns Cathedral of Hong Kong Island

St. Johns Cathedral’s European architecture stands out against the high rise backdrop.

Hong Kong Buildings

Hong Kong Buildings

Hong Kong Park

Hong Kong Park by DoNotLick, on Flickr

Bali Mynah Bird

The Bali Mynah bird, a native of Indonesia now housed at the Hong Kong Park aviary where Bird flu warnings continue to abound. “Don’t touch the droppings,” was my favourite.

Turtles Sunbathing in Hong Kong Park

Turtles sunbathing in Hong Kong Park. Looked like they were having a nice restful Sunday.

Celebrations of Hong Kong Island

Across the road from the park I happened upon a ritual dance.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel

Mandarin Hotel Hong Kong

Mandarin Oriental Hotel of Hong Kong

The Mandarin Oriental Hotel had quite the chocolate buffet. Low on funds I had to resist the temptation to indulge my choco habit so instead took some photos.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel of Hong Kong

A Symphony of Lights

Hong Kong Lightshow by Ray Devlin, on Flickr

The Symphony of lights show every night at 8pm is set to music and illuminates the harbour beautifully. Whether my good epileptic friend Jon would agree or not is a moot point. Well worth watching once whilst you’re there.

A Symphony of Lights Hong Kong

Hong Kong Skyline by laughlin, on Flickr

Lantau Island Hong Kong China

Day 4: I caught the ferry out to Lantau Island, connected with a bus at the other end and enjoyed a nice drive along the coast for 45 minutes to the Po Lin Monastery.

Po Lin Monastery

Po Lin Monastery

Twelve Divine Generals

Twelve Divine Generals

Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha)

Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) of Hong Kong Island

The long steep staircase up to the Big Buddha which, at 24m tall, is the World’s largest outdoor bronze Buddha (one for my Dad).

Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) of Hong Kong Island

Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) of Hong Kong Island

Ngong Ping 360

I then caught a cable car which takes you from the Monastery right the way past the new airport, or Chek Lap Kok if you prefer, until the Tung Chung underground terminus which links you back onto the Metro to the city.

Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Journey

Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Journey

Port of Hong Kong

Port of Hong Kong

The Hong Kong container port. Looks like the start of “Saving Private Ryan” to me (well the bit after Tom Hanks and Co. have cleared the beach head).

Goodbye Hong Kong

Hong Kong at Night

My last night in Hong Kong so I returned to Hullett House for one more gin and tonic and a cheers to the harbour.

Hong Kong at Night

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Impression provided by Lachlan Wittick.

Interstate toll collectors wear loose fitting tropical shirts on approach into Miami. Baseball caps are pressed over their bulbous glasses, covering faces etched into permanent frowns.

Businessmen in polo shirts yak on the phone, driving top down convertibles.

Apartment buildings lining the beach out reach the skyscrapers in the central business district. They’re an instant reminder that Miami is just as famous for retirees looking for a sea change as it is for economic output.

A relaxed, cosmopolitan atmosphere fills the Friday afternoon air. American tourists lap it up, having traveled south for a break from the cold snap.

Locals enjoy extra time in the sun, finishing early due to shortened working hours – a product of the
Global Financial Crisis.

Locals shopping on Lincoln road near the famous south beach, strut like celebrities wanting to be noticed. Fashonistas wear premium European brands sporting deep fake tans and tiny dogs, only willing to join the crowds when stopping in at McDonald’s for a burger and fries.

Many appear to be engaging in the struggle to achieve the perfect human body.

They make frail human features like skinny pale arms and a fragile woman with down syndrome sipping coffee, stand out from the crowd.

Neighborhoods change quickly, presenting an extreme patchwork of economic and social colors.

Waterfront palaces on the famous Star Island merge into dollar stores, run down high schools and the projects of Liberty city; a district made famous for it’s portrayal in the video game Grand Theft Auto.

Cuban flags and Haitian art work line the streets in the neighbourhoods of Little Havana and Little Haiti.

Advertisements in Spanish and Creole posted on power poles act as a reminder of how English is only one of several dominant languages that make up this city.

Cubans dance in line while waiting for their order. An armed guard lazily puffs on a cigar, waiting for his partner to finish up inside the bank.

Even the banks are overflowing with Latin American money, stored by Hispanic investors afraid of a natural disaster or government fall out in their home country. It’s often said that Miami is the biggest financial hub in central America.

However, beyond Miami’s initial image of wealth and glamor incredible diversity is to be found, if you’re willing to look for it.

See more of Lachlan Wittick’s photos on flickr.

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Peter and Dalene of Hecktic Travels share facts of the preconceived notion that Colombia travel means good coffee.

Colombia Travel & Colombia Coffee

Good coffee is synonymous with Colombia and for that reason, we couldn’t wait for our turn at Colombia travel. We visualized Juan Valdez walking casually beside his donkey, an amiable smile on his face as he tips his hat to the camera. Yes Juan! Lead us to all your caffeine-laced goodness!

After six months of traipsing around South America, and umpteen hundred cups of bad instant coffee later, we were on her doorstep and ready to indulge in the best java that this hemisphere has to offer.

Or, so we thought. After our first night’s stay across the southern border in the small city of Pasto, we awoke to yet another container of Nescafe instant coffee waiting with my breakfast. How could this be? Juan, where are you? Why are we not being handed a cup of the good stuff at every turn?

Turns out, we had to go looking for it. And not just to the local street stands that sell it, as that coffee was also highly disappointing. The local preference for preparation is to make it very weak and have it chock full of sugar (they call it “tinto”). For our prime coffee fix we had to go to the mountainous region in central Colombia known as Zona Cafetera, the prime growing grounds of the some of the world’s best coffee beans.

Salento & Manizales

We made two stops in the region and did two different finca (coffee plantation) tours. While the small town setting of Salento provided for some excellent hiking and impressive scenery, our tour outside the bustling university city of Manizales offered the best caffeine-induced experience!

• Why Travel to Colombia?
• Colombia Travel – Beaches of Tayrona National Park
• Colombia Travel – Discover Cartagena
• Colombia Travel – Mud Bath in Volcano Totumo
• Colombia Travel – Discover Salento

Zona Cafetera

Zona Cafetera is a prime growing location for the Arabica bean which provides the richest and most full bodied coffee.

The growing fields always amazed us as they climbed up steep hills – We couldn’t imagine being the people that had to tend to them or hand pick them during harvest season.

Some coffee beans fresh from the fields! As part of the tour, we did our own “quality assurance” by picking out the best beans that would become our very own espresso!

We watched as the beans were roasted and put straight into the espresso machine. This was, without a doubt, the very tastiest shot of caffeine we had ever had!

Oh, and by the way, we did find Juan. He now has his own chain of coffee shops – think Starbucks for Colombia but to a much smaller scale.

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