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August 25, 2017

Culture and Food at the Youm Al Bahar, Kuwait

Food on a plate

Located in Kuwait City on Gulf Road, Youm Al Bahar is a heritage village situated right by the sea. From craft stores to authentic local restaurants, this is a great spot in the city to head to if you would like to soak up some of Kuwait’s culture and food.

Family-Friendly
When you first enter Youm Al Bahar, you will notice a sign saying that admission is for families only. While this may seem odd to some international visitors, this is actually a great step that was taken, as it means that the atmosphere here is always quite relaxed, friendly and safe.

Local Food and Snacks
Within Youm Al Bahar, there are a number of restaurants and cafés that serve up freshly made local snacks. Food is always such a significant part of a culture’s heritage, making this a great way to taste the true flavor of Kuwait. The stuffed Arabic breads are a must-try, and these are stuffed with everything ranging from cheese to spices and herbs, while the wafting scent of the kebabs cooking will no doubt tempt you over for a sample. If you would prefer something sweet, give Luqaimat a try, which are sweet dumplings that are crisp on the outside but soft on the inside. Of course, you cannot leave the city without tasting machboos, which is famous for being the national dish of Kuwait. Consisting of rice that has been cooked with rose water and saffron, served up alongside meat and a garlic tomato sauce, this is a dish that you will not forget.

Shopping
Shops and stalls can be found throughout Youm Al Bahar, and these sell a variety of local goods. Local crafts tend to be the highlight here, and, even if you are not looking to make a purchase, these are still so interesting to browse, as they display such a high level of workmanship. In addition to the crafts, you will find everything from leather sandals to musical instruments to herbs and spices here, creating a wonderfully diverse shopping experience.

A Local Experience
While Kuwait City may have experienced so much development over the years, a visit to Youm Al Bahar is a great way to enjoy an authentic local experience, getting a glimpse into what Kuwait used to be like. In addition to all of the restaurants at Youm Al Bahar, you will also notice a number of local coffee shops. Head into one of these and order a cup of traditional mint tea, and then, if you have some time to spare, join the locals in a game of backgammon, of which you will find many around the area.

Youm Al Bahar is open every day of the week throughout the year, although if there is a specific shop or restaurant that you are hoping to visit, it would be worth checking out their opening times beforehand, as each of these is run individually. Whether you are seeking somewhere authentic for a bite to eat, or want to do a spot of shopping, including some one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home with you, the heritage at Youm Al Bahar makes it one of the highlights of a visit to Kuwait City.

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July 26, 2017

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The Schloss Foundation and Benrath Park

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Also known as Benrath Palace, Schloss Benrath is a baroque-style palace that was completed in 1770, and holds such historic significance for the city of Düsseldorf that it has been submitted for UNESCO World Heritage designation. From exploring the actual palace and the museum within to touring the baroque square hunting park that surrounds it, this is a part of the city that history buffs will not want to miss.

The Main Palace
The Main Palace is where most visitors to Benrath Park start off at, and is a fantastic introduction to all that you will be seeing. The main palace contains historic furniture, art work, porcelain and more, all of which have been curated to give visitors an accurate impression of what court life would have been like in the later half of the 18th century. There are many exhibits on display to take a look at here, and guided tours are available if you would like a more in-depth knowledge of everything around you.

Other Museums in the Palace
Benrath Palace is home to two museums, one in its east wing and one in its west wing. The museum in the east wing is the Museum of European Garden Art, and is quite a unique one for the way in which it focuses solely on garden art from different parts of Europe. In the west wing, you will find the Natural History Museum, which is considered to be one of the best museums in the city. As you would expect, this museum focuses on natural history, but does this with a local spin, making it quite unique. There are also several exhibits here based on Benrath Park itself, which you will then be able to explore for yourself.

The Palace Park
Benrath Park is an oasis when it comes to greenery, and you will immediately notice the wide range of plants that live here. The park is divided into three distinct gardens, each with its own unique theme. From the French Garden with its spectacular orangery to the romantic Flower Garden, which used to be known as the English Garden, there is plenty to see here. As you make your way around the park, you will notice all of the lime tree avenues that surround you, and these are actually over 250 years old, and were created over time by training the growth of the trees. End you visit at the wooded section of Benrath Park, as the lush tree canopies provide a one-of-a-kind ecosystem for flowering plants to grow, as well as a number of colorful wildflowers, canals and ponds.

Benrath Palace was originally built as a hunting lodge and summer residence for Elector Carl Theodor, with its location being chosen due to its proximity to the River Rhine. While there were numerous garden palaces created in the 18th century, all over the world, Benrath Palace and its park is considered to be one of the most beautiful, and this is something that you will no doubt agree with once you pay it a visit for yourself.

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April 28, 2017

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Enjoy Fun & Games at the Casino Del Sol

Run by the Pascua Taqui tribe, the Casino Del Sol is a casino resort located just ten miles from Tucson International Airport. With everything from slots and table games to live music and outdoor concerts, there is plenty of fun to be had throughout the year at the Casino Del Sol.

Slot and Table Games
The Casino Del Sol is home to an incredible array of different games. Slot machines are always popular, and you will find over 1300 slot and video poker machines here. If you prefer the live action of table games, there are 24 to choose from, and the friendly dealers make it easy for beginners to try their luck. With everything from War Blackjack to Three Card Poker, the range of table games here are unique, setting the casino apart from its competition. For those who are really hoping to strike it lucky, playing a few games in the High Limit Lounge is a must. In addition to the many games featured here, there is also a bar and lounge area, ideal for relaxing in between rounds.

Bingo Hall
The casino’s Bingo Hall is a large one, with enough room to seat 600 players. With the largest and most exciting linked progressive jackpots in Arizona, you are guaranteed to have an exciting time when playing one of the diverse bingo games held here. There are also several daily special events that you can take part in, as well as the latest bingo technology that tracks your cards for you, so that you can simply sit back, relax, and wait for your winning number to be called.

Poker Room
While the poker rooms at many casinos may be designed just for the high rollers, the poker room at the Casino Del Sol is suitable for every skill level and budget. With daily tournaments and uncapped bad beat jackpots, there is something for everyone here. For those who are new to the game, the poker room is also where you will be able to find a mentor who will be able to teach you the basics.

Special Events
For those hoping to catch a live concert or event, there are several scheduled throughout the year at the Casino Del Sol. At the end of April, the Latin Royal Tribute will be held, paying homage to Latin Grammy winners, such as Gloria Estefan and Ricky Martin by showcasing Latin music. In May, there will be a live boxing match, Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN, featuring Diego De La Hoya against Erik Ruiz, as well as a performance by hilarious comedy duo Cheech and Chong. June sees George Lopez take the stage, as well as Journey, one of the most popular American rock bands of all time.

The Yaqui people have had a long history in the region, fighting the Spanish and Mexicans for nearly 200 years in order to preserve their way of life. By spending time at the Casino Del Sol, you will be supporting the many programs put into place for the tribe, from their medical clinic to their recreation center, and helping to conserve their unique traditions.

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March 25, 2017

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The Megalithic Temples of Malta

While the temples of ancient Greece and ancient Egypt may be amongst some of the most famous in the world, the oldest megalithic temples, which are even older than the Pyramids of Egypt, are actually found in Malta, as well as her sister island of Gozo. From Hagar Qim to Ggantija, these are some of the must-see temples for those looking to learn more about Malta’s history.

Temples in Gozo

Ggantija Temples, Gozo
The Ggantija temples on the Maltese island of Gozo are considered to be one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, and date back to around 3600 BC. The megaliths used in the creation of this temple are absolutely enormous, with some weighing over fifty tons, which is what led locals to believe that the structure was one created by giants, which led to its name, Ggantija, meaning giant in Maltese. The complex consists of two separate temples, which are surrounded by a huge wall that forms the boundaries of the complex. The entire complex does not take too long to tour, meaning that you can easily squeeze in a visit during your time in Gozo.

Hagar Qim Temples
Constructed from the soft limestone that caps the ridge on which the temple stands, Hagar Qim, which dates back to 3600 BC, has experienced more than its fair share of weathering over the years, with many of its outer walls beginning to flake away. Nevertheless, this temple complex and its prehistoric chambers still provide a one-of-a-kind insight into Malta’s history. The temple was first excavated in 1839, and while many of the temple’s original artefacts have been removed and placed into museum exhibits, they have been replaced with close replicas. For those who want to take a look at the originals, these can be found in Malta’s National Museum of Archaeology.

Temple in Malta

Tarxien Temples
Unlike Malta’s other megalithic temple complexes, the Tarxien Temples are surrounded on all sides by urban development, but this has not managed to diminish its significance. Just like the two other temple complexes mentioned above, the earliest temple here, which can be found in the north-east of the site, also dates back to 3600 BC, while the others are believed to have been built during the Tarxien phase, which was between 3150 and 2500 BC. Many of the stones and walls here are decorated with intricately carved patterns, with one chamber featuring the image of two bulls and a sow, all of which give you an even deeper insight into life during this time period.

In total, Malta is home to eleven megalithic temples, with seven of them, including the three mentioned above, being listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Dating from 5500 to 2500 BC, these prehistoric temples give you the opportunity to take a walk through Malta’s history, providing an unforgettable experience that is educational yet fascinating at the same time. While each of these temples can be explored in your own time, there are also several guided tours to choose from, which will leave you with an even more immersive experience.

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February 15, 2017

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Take a Stroll Through Old Sacramento

Established during the 1849 California Gold Rush, Old Sacramento was the very first historic district to be created in the western United States, and is home today to a wide variety of museums, attractions and dining options. Covering an area of 28 acres along the banks of the Sacramento River, here are just a few of the highlights that you can expect to see when taking a stroll through Old Sacramento.

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The Museums of Old Sacramento
While you may not have time to fully tour each of the museums of Old Sacramento, they are all located within walking distance of each other, making it easy to spend a small amount of time at each as you pass by. The California Automobile Museum is a must-visit for car enthusiasts, as it has over 150 exhibits that tell the story of the development of the automobile. The California State Railroad Museum is another one that focuses on transport, with everything from extravagantly restored trains to antique locomotives. Of course, the Sacramento History Museum is definitely worth stopping off at if you want to learn more about the city’s dramatic history, as well as its turbulent Gold Rush past, while the Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum is a living replica of a one-room schoolhouse from California’s early days.

The Delta King
Located at the end of Old Sacramento, the Delta King is a historic riverboat that dates back to 1927, and has been beautifully restored since then. While the boat does not run anymore and is permanently docked here, it is still open for the public to explore, and even has a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal with a stunning waterfront backdrop.

Old Sacramento Underground Tours
Depending on how much time you have to spare, an underground tour of the city is well worth taking. These tours begin at the Sacramento History Museum, and take visitors down through excavated foundations and enclosed pathways, while teaching them all about the only successful street-raising project in California.

Shops and Restaurants
Old Sacramento is home to a wide range of shops and restaurants that each manage to maintain a quaint and traditional charm. The shops, of which there are everything from toys to handcrafted jewellery, can easily be browsed as you stroll through the town, and you are likely to pick up a few unique souvenirs, whether this may be a local piece of art, or a photograph of you and your group dressed up in Old West attire, a service that is provided by the town’s two old-fashioned photo shops. When it comes to restaurants, there are many to choose from, but if you are just seeking a sweet treat to snack on while you wander through town, head to Danny’s Mini Donuts, or to Munchies Salt Water Taffy.

Old Sacramento is an area unlike any other, and really does make you feel as though you have stepped back in time. While you may not be able to explore the entire area on foot, a leisurely stroll through Old Sacramento will still reward you with plenty of memorable experiences.

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February 6, 2017

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Take a Stroll Through Dealey Plaza

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Located in downtown Dallas’ Historic West End District, Dealey Plaza, otherwise known as the Dealey Plaza Historic District, was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1993. It is famous for being the location at which John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963, and a stroll through the plaza will take you back in time, enabling you to learn so much more about this significant day in history.

The Sixth Floor Museum
Dealey Plaza is bounded in on three sides by tall buildings, one of which is the former Texas School Book Depository, which is the building from which it was concluded that Lee Harvey Oswald fired the shot that killed the president. The exact spot that the killer stood is at the top of the building, which is now occupied by the Sixth Floor Museum. The museum documents the legacy of John F. Kennedy, and even has a live webcam to show you the modern-day view that the killer would have had. In addition to their JFK exhibits, the museum also hosts rotating special exhibits, with the current one being held until the 16th of March. Titled Amending America: The Bill of Rights, the exhibition celebrates the 225th anniversary of the Bill of Rights by taking a look at how the first ten amendments came to be, as well as how they serve to protect American citizens.

Historic Features around the Plaza
There are many historic features dotted around the plaza that have not changed since 1963, giving visitors the opportunity to really experience what the area looked and felt like at that time. From street lights and street signs to the buildings surrounding the plaza, that provide quite the contrast with the towering Dallas skyscrapers behind them, a stroll through the plaza almost feels as though you are stepping back in time.

The Grassy Knoll
A small sloping hill located within the plaza, the grassy knoll became a well-known spot after the assassination of the president, as this is where the police rushed to after shots were fired. There were many witnesses who claim to have heard shots being fired from here, and the area has been at the center of many of the conspiracy theories surrounding the event.

Old Red Museum
Another one of the authentically historic buildings that surrounds Dealey Plaza is home to the Old Red Museum, which showcases the history, heritage and culture of Dallas. This former courthouse building was built in 1892, and has been beautifully restored by then, with architecture that really deserves to be admired. The museum boasts several interactive exhibits, including a rotating special exhibit that ensures that returning visitors always have something new to see.

There are currently restoration works underway to return Dealey Plaza back to the exact state that it was in in 1963, which will really provide even more of a one-of-a-kind experience. In the meantime, there is still so much to experience here, from the Sixth Floor Museum to the grassy knoll, making Dealey Plaza the perfect place for a leisurely stroll.

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November 9, 2016

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The Bin Matar House

Located in Muharraq, which was the former capital of the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Bin Matar House was built by Salman bin Hussain, one of the most famous pearling merchants in Bahrain in the 19th and 20th centuries. This admirable man was not only wealthy, but also generous and kind-hearted to those less fortunate than him, and the house, which is now a fascinating museum, represents a significant part of Bahrain’s heritage and culture.

The Ground Floor
The ground floor of the Bin Matar House is where you will find a small café, ideal for enjoying a couple of snacks before or after touring the house. This is also where the gift shop is located, which features a wide variety of local products, from books on Bahrain’s history, as well as the famous Matar family, to accessories created by local designers. With the ground floor of the Bin Matar House being so large, this is also the spot where a number of important temporary exhibitions are held, featuring the work of top artists, from the likes of Zaha Hadid to Waheeda Malullah.
Bahrain Architecture
Classic Bahraini Architecture
While the ground floor of the Bin Matar House was used for a variety of purposes over the years, the top floor remained as the main residence of the Matar family until 2002. After vacating the property, the house remained empty and unused for a while, which led to talks about its demolition. However, fortunately, this was never carried out, and the Bin Matar House was fully restored in 2009, now reflecting all of its former glory. The house is a fantastic example of classic Bahraini architecture, with its tall columns and traditional windows, both of which have been around since the house was first built. The ceilings have also been left untouched, enabling visitors to really feel as though they are stepping back in time to when the house was first constructed. Being built in the traditional Bahraini style, the house makes use of a wide range of local materials, from the trunks of palm trees to gypsum to sea-stone, many of which can also be seen in some of Muharraq’s other traditional houses.

The Top Floor
While the Bin Matar House used to overlook the sea, there has been a large amount of land reclaimed since it was first built, meaning that the waterfront is now a couple of kilometres away. However, the sprawling terrace area at the top floor of the house boasts spectacular views of the busy streets of Muharraq, showcasing the hustle and bustle of the city below. There are plenty of educational displays here that teach visitors more about the beginnings of the Matar family, with exhibits that hold the family’s original pearling tools. These also help to explain the pearling process in more detail, from the measuring and weighing to the drilling and stringing.

The Bin Matar House is an exemplary example of Gulf Islamic architecture, and showcases a hugely important part of Bahrain’s heritage. From its displays on pearling to its local art exhibitions, a visit to the Bin Matar House is a great way to learn more about how Bahrain developed into the extraordinary nation that it is today.

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September 19, 2016

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Old Town Charm

Steeped in history and filled with ancient treasures, old towns enable you to step back in time and enjoy a taste of the past. From the dark and winding alleyways of Vieux Nice to the multifaceted appeal of Edinburgh’s Old Town, these destinations all make for an incredible short getaway.

Old Town, Edinburgh, Scotland
While Edinburgh’s Old Town may not be large, it more than makes up for this with the immense amount of history that surrounds it. Human occupation in Edinburgh dates back to the Bronze Age, and there are buildings here that were built in the 11th and 12th century. The historical ambiance here is rich, with just about everywhere you walk having been previously traveled by everyone from royalty to invading armies. For those who want to pick up some one-of-a-kind items to take home, there are plenty of vintage and antique stores to be found in Edinburgh’s Old Town, a couple of which offer the largest selection of antiques in Scotland.

Old Town, Chicago, USA
Chicago’s Old Town was originally settled in the mid 19th century, and was the first area of the city to be gentrified just over 40 years ago. This historic neighborhood is packed with culture, from the Old Town Triangle Art Center to the Old Town Art Fair, which is the oldest in the country and is held each year in June. What sets Chicago’s Old Town apart from many other areas is the way in which its Victorian-era buildings house unique boutiques rather than mainstream chain stores, selling everything from specialty books to local antiques.

Kota Tua, Jakarta, Indonesia
Kota Tua Jakarta, otherwise known as Jakarta Old Town, is an area that comprises of the city’s original downtown area, which was originally settled by the Dutch in the 16th century. While the area could definitely have benefited from a stricter preservation program, there is still an abundance of European heritage to be seen when wandering around the busy streets, from the former warehouses of the Dutch East India Company, which today house museums, shops and restaurants, to the Batavia Café, which was built in 1850 in colonial style.

Vieux Nice, Nice, France
Old Town Nice, known as Vieux Nice to locals, is an area whose layout has hardly changed since the 1700’s, and while it may now be filled with trendy boutiques and bars, its original spirit still stands strong, making it one of the most fiercely independent parts of Nice. The focal point of Nice’s Old Town has always been, and still is to this day, Cours Saleya, which is a huge market square that is constantly abuzz with activity. From deliciously scented food markets to colorful flower markets to vintage flea markets, this is a spot that will always entertain.

A region’s Old Town is an area that has managed to beautifully preserve its history, heritage, identity and heart, and can provide a unique insight into the wider region. From the antique shops of Old Town Edinburgh to the buzzing markets of Vieux Nice, these destinations boast a charm and ambiance that simply cannot be recreated in newer parts of the city.

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September 9, 2016

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The Totally Thames Festival

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Each year in London, a 42-mile stretch of the River Thames bursts into a hive of activity, all thanks to the annual Totally Thames festival. Taking place over the entire month of September, this festival celebrates the Thames with an exciting lineup of arts festivals, community events, river races and other fun-filled activities.

The Great River Race
The city’s annual river marathon, the Great River Race is always a spectacle to watch, as 300 teams from around the world will be competing to become the Traditional Boat Champions of the UK. With everyone from serious athletes in Hawaiian war canoes to Viking longboats filled with recreational rowers wearing fancy dress costumes, this race is worth watching, and, if you follow with it along the race route, you will end up in Richmond, greeted with live music and food stalls.

Floating Dreams
Ik-Joong Kang is one of the most revered artists to have come from South Korea, and Floating Dreams is a major installation of his, placed in the center of the Thames. The piece was created with the use of 500 drawings, collected from the generation of those that were forced to flee North Korea, leaving their homes and loved ones behind. The installation serves as a memorial to those that were divided during the Korean War, and is one of the most powerful pieces that the city has seen in a while.

The Singing Bridge
Artist and composer Claudia Molitor has created a one-of-a-kind musical and historic experience on London’s Waterloo Bridge, in honor of the Totally Thames Festival. Inspired by the surprising history of Waterloo Bridge, the artist put together a 40-minute musical experience, that tells the tale of the way in which the bridge was rebuilt by mostly women during the second World War.

Tall Ships Cruise
Many would argue that London is a city best seen from the water, and the tall ships cruise is an unforgettable way in which to do this. This opportunity is only available for four days, and enables visitors to enjoy a two-hour cruise down the Thames from the Royal Arsenal Pier in Woolwich. These tall ships are most definitely impressive, and give you an idea of what the vessels on the river would have looked like not too long ago.

Barnes Film Festival
The Barnes Film Festival is totally new to the Totally Thames Festival this year, but is an event that is highly anticipated by many. Featuring the work of young filmmakers from all across the UK, there will be viewings available that you will not be able to see anywhere else. In addition to the films presented, there will also be several related workshops, discussions and gatherings, featuring some of the country’s most revered cinematic talent.

With over 150 different official events to choose from, the Totally Thames Festival usually attracts at least 2 million Londoners each year, with many more coming from far and wide. With everything from art installations to boat races, this is a festival that highlights the beautiful diversity that the city of London has to offer.

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September 7, 2016

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Solvang Danish Days

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Located in California’s Santa Barbara County, Solvang is a village that is commonly referred to as the Danish Capital of America. The village was established by Danish-Americans in 1911, and the annual Solvang Danish Days festival aims to celebrate and preserve the area’s unique heritage. Held this year from the 16th of September until the 18th of September, these are some of the festival highlights that you can look forward to.

Opening Ceremonies
The festival’s Opening Ceremonies are usually quite a grand affair, and well worth watching in person. Held in Solvang Park, a number of Danish VIPs will be present, and there will also be a few traditional street dance performances by Danish dancers. For those who stick around until the end, you will also be able to enjoy a short Hans Christian Andersen story, narrated by Randel McGee.

Old World Artisans Marketplace
The Old World Artisans Marketplace will be held throughout the festival, and focuses on showcasing the very best of Scandinavian arts and crafts. From fabric art to pottery to woodworking, you will no doubt be able to pick up a number of one-of-a-kind pieces, as well as check out a few demonstrations by some of the artists that will be present.

Living History Festival
In order to really bring Danish history alive, Solvang Danish Days has teamed up with the Elverhoj Museum of History and Art to create the Living History Festival, featuring a diverse range of storytellers, craftspeople, and interactive displays to appeal to all ages. This year, there will be special displays focussed on the Vikings, as well as the chance for visitors to speak to a popular Viking re-enactment leader.

Free Concerts
Music is always a key element of just about every festival, and Solvang Danish Days is no different, with numerous free concerts held throughout the weekend. The very first group to perform will be Manne, a trio of Danish musicians, while those who would prefer some classical music should stay for the Danish Days Organ Concert, which will feature a lively mix of music from across the centuries. Galaxy, the US Air Force Band of the Golden West, will also be performing a family friendly concert, playing everything from country to rock to top 40 hits. For those who would like to learn some traditional dancing, tickets are available for the Danish Days Dinner Dance, which features a Danish-style barbecue followed by live music and traditional dancing.

Viking Beer and Wine Garden
When it comes time to stop for a drink, head to the outdoor Viking Beer and Wine Garden. Here, you will find a tempting range of Danish imports, as well as some local brews and wines.

With everything from traditional Danish food and drink, free concerts, re-enactments of history, and plenty of arts and culture, it is no surprise that Solvang Danish Days is always a popular festival. There are so many different entertainment options to choose from on each of the days, so, if you would like more information in order to plan your trip, head to the festival’s website for a detailed schedule.