Globetrotting Tips for Savvy Traveler

Stockholm has long been one of Sweden's cultural, media, political and economic centres. The city is known for its beauty, its buildings and architecture, its abundant clean and open water and its many parks. With a rich history and strong modern identity this is a top travel destination that you won't want to miss.

Here are some ideas for your next trip!

1. Old Town (Gamla Stan)

Located on the original small islands of the city's earliest settlements, the Old Town still features the medieval street layout. Be sure to check out the large German Church (Tyska kyrkan) and several mansions and palaces. 

2. Skansen Open-Air Museum

The first open air museum and zoo in Sweden and is located on the island Djurgarden. The museum shows the way of life in the different parts of Sweden before the industrial era. 

3. Vasa Museum (Vasamuseet)

A maritime museum in Stockholm that displays the only almost fully intact 17th century ship that has ever been salvaged, the 64-gun warship Vasa that sank on her maiden voyage in 1628.

4. A cruise through the Stockholm Archipelago (Skärgården)

The large archipelago is served by the Waxholmbolaget archipelago boats. 

5. The Royal Palace (Kungliga Slottet) 

The official residence and major royal palace of the Swedish monarch. 

6. Djurgården park

Djurgården is an island in central Stockholm, home to historical buildings and monuments, museums, galleries, and much more. The National City park is beautiful and a great place to unwind.

7. National Museum 

The national gallery located on the peninsula Blasieholmen, that exhibits an impressive art collection due to its benefactors, King Gustav III and Carl Gustaf Tessin. 

8. City Hall (Stadshuset)

Standing on the eastern tip of Kungsholmen island, home to offices and conference rooms as well as ceremonial halls and the luxury restaurant, Stadshuskällaren. It is the venue of the Nobel Prize banquet and one of Stockholm's major tourist attractions. 

9. Modern Art Museum (Moderna Museet)

Sweden's national museum of modern art with works by famous modern artists such as Picasso and Salvador  Dali. 

10. The Gold Room (Guldrummet) of the Museum of National Antiquities (Historika Museet)

The museum covers Swedish cultural history and art from the Stone Age to the 16th century. 

Contact Northstar Travel today to plan and book your trip!

Singapore is a very diverse and young country, with many languages, cultures and religions for a country its size. While this makes for a vibrant and unique travel opportunity, it also means there is no single set of culturally accepted behaviors. 

Rules and restrictions have changed much over the years, mostly loosening up a bit. But there are still some things you should consider during a trip. Gone are the days when a shave and haircut were required conditions for entry. Yet for as multicultural and dynamic as this city is, there are still certain (bizarre) rules and laws that are unfamiliar and not intuitive to foreigners. Make sure you are aware of local customs and pay them respect to avoid any problems on your trip.

Singapore has very strict drug laws and drug trafficking carries a mandatory death penalty, a sentence that is extended to foreigners. Customs has been known to occasionally do spot urine tests at the airport so watch what’s in your system before you travel.

Having explosives or firearms without a permit is also a capital offense in Singapore.

There is no duty free allowance for cigarettes - they all must be purchased legally within the country, meaning they will be stamped with SDPC. Smokers caught with unmarked cigs may be fined up to $500/pack. Cigarettes are heavily taxed and you are very restricted as to where you are permitted to smoke. Follow the signs or face the fines!

No pornography, pirated goods, or publications by the Jehovah’s Witnesses and the Unification Church. Pirated CDs or DVDs can run you fines of up to $1000 per disc.

No jaywalking! No littering! No illegal parking!

Also illegal: Handcuffs, even if pink and fuzzy; Feeding pigeons or monkeys; Malaysian newspapers; and Homosexual activity (there is a relatively vibrant gay community in Singapore, however gays should expect legalized discrimination and plan/act accordingly)

While some of these rules border on being absolutely ridiculous, it’s important to keep in mind that Singapore is known as one of the safest major cities in the world, by pretty much any measure. Even young, female single travelers will not have any problems walking the streets alone at night. 

For more information about traveling to Singapore, or to start your next trip, contact the experts at Northstar Travel. 

Montego Bay is a popular tourist destination in Jamaica, known for its duty free shopping, cruise line terminal and beautiful beaches. Surrounding this vibrant city are picturesque low mountains. 

It's also a great place for water activities, like boating and snorkeling. Check out this video by Brett Kotheimer about his time diving in Montego Bay. 

Here's his description of the video:

"This is from two days of diving in Montego Bay, Jamaica in May 2010. Although Jamaica does not have a reputation as a diving hotspot, I found the coral to be in better shape than expected (thanks to recent conservation efforts) and populated with a decent amount of smaller fish. 

Captain's Watersports, the in-house dive service at Round Hill Hotel & Villas, was a solid operation with a great staff and a fast boat (captainsdivecenter.com)."

Time for some warmer weather. 

Contact us at Northstar to plan your Caribbean getaway with that special someone - or the whole family!

Taking a trip with kids in tow is like the olympics of travelling. There's much to plan and prepare and patience to be had. 

Parents recently have been getting a lot of flak for flying with their kids - some airlines going so far as to outright ban children all together. This isn't exactly fair, and fellow passengers should cut parents some slack when dealing with a crying baby or a tempermental toddler. 

That said, there are steps parents can take to minimize or eliminate these types of issues. 

Some are pretty basic and most parents probably already know: making sure to bring plenty of snacks (especially favorite treats) and allowing your kids to run around before boarding the train (gets rid of excess energy). Distractions are good too, so be sure to pack books, toys, or any other materials that will keep your kids content. 

Debbie Durrow of CNTraveler.com had some good tips too. One in particular I liked:

"Worry about jet lag on arrival

You’ll see lots of expert advice on how to best avoid jet lag at your destination. Most of it involves getting your child onto local time before you leave. I’m going to go out on a limb and say that you should ignore it. Who wants a grumpy, sleep-deprived child on a plane? Instead, focus on making sure your child is either calm and well-rested for a morning flight or drowsy for a nighttime flight. For an afternoon departure, try to get lots of daytime exercise, and get your child ready to nap on the plane. With any luck, the soothing engine noise will ensure an extra-long nap. Here are some tips for helping your child sleep on a plane."

What do you think, all you parents out there? What are your tricks of the trade for getting your children to behave on long flights?

Pat Conroy Said "Once you have traveled, the voyage never ends, but is played out over and over again in the quiestest chambers. The mind can never break off from the journey." 

There have been many great travel quotes but, this one has to be one of the truest. Often after a trip you find yourself reflecting on an amazing experience, and that is why we truly believe travel is an investment, something that can truly last a lifetime. Whether it's the first time your parents took you too see Mickey Mouse, the time you reached the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro or sipping a Pina Colada on your Honeymoon travel is something that can act as an escape for a moment in time something intimate and specail that once you have embarked on the journey you can replay time and time again.

Enjoy the Video and Escape back to one of those never ending journeys !!!

While dressing up for the airport doesn't result in the suprise upgrades that it used to, tramping through security in teddy bear pajamas are going to raise a few eyebrows. 

To be fair though, between airport security and the cramped airplane seating who doesn’t want to be as comfortable as possible?

How about a compromise? Here’s the best way to dress for flying. 

The Right Footwear

Now is not the time to break in those lace-up, thigh high boots. You want to get through security as fast as possible so instead opt for a comfy and easy alternative like ballet flats or boat shoes.

Go with anything that can be easily slipped on and off and that isn’t too tight. Your feet expand over long flights increasing your risk of deep vein thrombosis.

However, you also might want to consider wearing your heaviest shoes to save your luggage some weight. This shouldn’t mean high heels though, because heaven forbid there’s an emergency it’ll be difficult to be quick on your feet.

Also skip the flip-flops and sandals as your feet might freeze on the plane. If you’re especially sensitive to cold temperatures bring a pair of socks to put on.

That’s why you should also …

Wear Warm Layers

Even if you’re flying to Tahiti it’s a good idea to bring something to put on during the flight. Cabins are infamous for dropping to freezing temperatures and your seat neighbor might not want to snuggle for 10 hours.

Wear a light jacket or sweater over your shirt. You can tie it around your waist or luggage so it doesn’t take up any room when you’re not wearing it. I have this huge pashmina scarf I always bring that can also serve as a blanket, shawl and sarong. You can also just layer up extra shirts or other clothing you’re bringing.

Loose Fitting, Natural Clothes

Jeans can be stiff and tight and therefore uncomfortable on long trips. Try to wear a looser pair or one with just a small amount of spandex woven in (like 5% or less). You can also secretly undo one bottom - it makes a world of difference.

Some travel experts also recommend staying away from synthetic clothing - in the event of an emergency, it’s much more flammable than natural fibers.

On a side note: Girls! Wear a skirt or shorts long enough to cover your bum when you sit. You do not want to be sitting directly on these seats, trust me.

No Offensive Shirts or Clothes

You can get booted off the plane. Don’t believe me? Southwest airlines kicked a woman off a flight a few years back over a political message on her T-shirt: the faces of Bush, Cheney and Condoleezza Rice hovering over the words “Meet the Fockers.”

Unfair? Maybe. But unlike the government, private companies are not obligated to honor any “freedom of speech” doctrine, so just play it safe.

No Heavy Metal 

This is an oldie, but make sure not to wear items with metal because they can set off security and get you retained. Avoid belts and wallet chains because you’ll have to take them off in security.

Wear minimal jewelry - instead put it safely in your carry-on so you can keep a close eye on it without having to risk a body exam at security. Sometimes it can’t be helped - like for an underwire bra. Do what you can and you should be fine.

Be Clean!

This one might sound silly, but don’t be smelly. You’re cramped in a small, confined cabin that recycles air and already smells stale - do your part to make it a little more pleasant for those around you.

This includes going easy on the perfumes and cologne. A few hours of breathing in “Obsession” would give anyone a headache. Remember, the ideal seat mate doesn’t smell like anything - he or she is perfectly neutral.

This is trickier on the way back when you might have whittled down your clean clothes with nothing to wear on return. Try to save one clean shirt for your last day, or wash your clothes when you travel. And don’t skimp on the deodorant.

Other Things to Remember

Depending on the country you’re traveling to sometimes it’s safer to dress down in order to attract less attention.

Also, be culturally aware and sensitive to your destination. If you’re headed a conservative country respect the dress code and cover up.

Your skin dries out on an airplane because of the altitude, so consider bringing lotion and chapstick - yes, even the guys.

Wearing clean black clothes is an easy way to add a touch of elegance to your look, plus they hide stains much easier.

Remember, the goal is to look neat and presentable. Once you figure out an airplane look you’re set for all future flights.

While it's much more common for travellers to visit Europe during the warmer months, a growing community of savvy globetrotters know that winter is the time to go. Better prices, fewer crowds, an entirely new and wonderful way to see this region.

Anita Isalska of LonelyPlanet.com agrees. Her article, 7 Great Reason to See Europe in Winter, lays out exactly why you should leave your snowy abode and venture across the sea. 

Here's an excerpt:

5. Live like a local

"Without so many tourists flocking into their prettiest piazzas, life returns to normal in many tourist hotspots. And as locals’ guard comes down, all the better to people-watch. Try stomping into a warm Parisian brasserie to see chic locals shake their umbrellas (and wring out their soggy pet poodles). Or maybe you’d prefer to eavesdrop on Londoners as they endlessly discuss weather reports with that quintessentially British air of gloom."

If a trip to Europe sounds right for you, get in touch with one of our experienced consultants. We can score all of the best deals for your trip and take care of all of the travel arrangements. 

Make 2012 your year for adventure!

If you're anything like me, that first sip of coffee in the morning is your life force throughout the day. Or that cup in the evening after dinner, to settle your food and extend the conversation. Coffee has beguiled, satisfied and woken up people around the world. Whenever I travel, I try to engage in some caffeine tourism to see how different cultures and styles have interpreted this very basic beverage.

I found this article by Nicholas DeRenzo of Budget Travel: A Caffeine Addict's Guide to the World. This comprehensive list covers different types of coffee found in 24 different regions: a description, "sip tip" and where to go. 

From the Irish Coffee spiked with whiskey to the Buna of Ethiopia - the birthplace of coffee, the world is full of some amazing variations that can be yours at nominal prices.

Alberto Pizzoli / AFP / Getty Images

A very Happy New Years from all of us at Northstar Travel!

My wife Dayana and myself just returned from 8 nights at the brand new 5 star adults only Secrets Huatulco in Mexico.

Of all my travels to Mexico over the past 15-20 years I must say that Huatulco is as Mexican as it gets. There are no Carlos and Charlies, Senior Frogs here but actuall a small local bar known as Senior Pucks (owned by a Canadian Couple!)

Huatulco is made up of many small bays set in the Sierra Madre Coastal Mountains. Probabaly the most picuresque view I have had from any hotel room I have been to since going to Italy along the Amalfi Coast!

Secrets has finally opened after several years of planning as Huatulco takes it times in growing and it shows with the quality and location of each of the main hotels at this unique destination. What more can I say about Secrets? Well click on the link and you will be amazed 

http://www.secretsresorts.com/Huatulco/index.asp

330 days of sunshine ....30 degrees almost daily.......cold coronas...pacific sunsets.....Huatulco

I went to Puerto Rico last summer and had an AMAZING time. The beaches are beautiful, and the historic centre is full of art, history and culture. For my next trip, I want to go to Vieques Island to experience the Bioluminescent Bay at night. 

There are so many reasons to visit this Caribbean island. Matt Long, of LandLopers.com, agrees. His article, Five Reasons to Visit Puerto Rico in 2012 encapsulates why this should be your next trip.

Here's an excerpt:

1. Caribbean – For the most populated American territory, Puerto Rico has done a masterful job of retaining its unique, Caribbean culture. Yes, there are McDonalds and large retail stores, but there are also beaches, restaurants and bars that are quintessentially Caribbean. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy that unique, indefinable quality of the islands, San Juan is one of the best places to start. The photo above was taken at the amazing San Juan Marriott.

To start your trip, contact us at Northstar Travel. We can make this your best adventure yet!

Happy Holidays from all of us at Northstar Travel!

I just had to share this list compiled by Andy Hayes for SharingTravelExperiences.com - 16 of the World's Most Awe-Inspiring Religious Structures. 

I personally love to visit spaces of worship wherever I travel; it fascinates me how people of different regions and cultures create a physical structure for something spiritual. Regardless of the particular religion, these spaces are almost always moving, even at just a purely aesthetic level. 

This list blew me away - and I have a few more destinations added to my travel itinerary!

Check out the full article!

The Monasteries of Meteora, Greece

Remember! If you just must visit one of these AMAZING places, Northstar Travel can make that happen. Just contact us for more info. 

Sometimes you just can't help it.

Checking a bag that is. A single-carry on is always the best way to go, but sometimes the occasion calls for something more. 

Whether you’re embarking on a long-term trip, or traveling with gifts, supplies and/or heavy (winter) clothes, you’ll want to get the best piece or set of luggage your money can buy.

Here’s everything you need to know to help you decide.

What To Consider

Size & Weight

Some luggage pieces are small enough to double as a carry-on (generally smaller than 22” in length) but have the ability to expand and be checked if needed.

Weight is a huge consideration because on top of the already hefty checking fees (around $25 now domestic) you might get stuck with an additional $50 - $100 overweight fee. For most airlines the limit is 50 lbs. Here is a handy airline baggage fees chart.

Wheels

To wheel, or not to wheel? Nowadays it’s the norm for luggage to come on wheels - even duffle bags and backpacks got ‘em. The wheeling system does add some weight but it’s well worth the convenience. Make sure that the wheels are set widely apart for stability and mobility. If you can get luggage with four wheels  - which allows you to deftly make sharp turns - even better. 

Hard or Soft Sided

Hard-sided is made with polycarbonate. The advantage is that it’s waterproof, durable, cannot be compressed in transit, and the shell protects the contents inside. Best for expensive equipment or rough-and-tumble adventures.

That being said, the flip side is it’s typically heavier and more expensive. The luggage can’t expand and therefore is less flexible. Don’t expect it to fit in overheard luggage racks on trains, or in many of the train station lock boxes. Especially in Europe you might have trouble getting it into the trunk of your rental car or taxi.

More often than not, soft-sided luggage is the better choice. These pieces are lighter, expandable, have many extra zip compartments and are easier to store.

For soft-sided luggage, opt for hardwearing polyester or nylon. Industrial nylon like Cordura or ballistic nylon is best. Pass on leather - it adds unnecessary weight and can get moldy if damp.

Warranty

Whether or not the luggage comes with a long warranty is an easy way to estimate its quality. Look especially for warranties that cover accidental damage. Note that a high price isn’t always an indicator of a better warranty.

Remember! 

If you travel more than twice a year, you are making an investment and should pay for quality. Your luggage should last you many years so if you choose carefully you’ll get the most out of your money, along with the security of one less thing to worry about when you travel.

Recommendations

ConsumerSearch named the Eagle Creek Tarmac 22 as the Best Rolling Luggage out there. “It’s well made, lightweight, expandable and its rugged wheels roll smoothly.”

The company, Eagle Creek, offers an unconditional lifetime warranty. The only downside is the “22” exceeds most airline carry-on size limits by half-an-inch ($285).

If the price is a little steep, ConsumerSearch also reviewed the Delsey Helium Fusion Lite 2.0 Expandable Suiter Trolley, which at a modest $65, is perfect for the budget-conscious casual traveler. The bag itself is spacious and easy to pack, with accessible compartments and a garment hanger. It can fit in overhead bins but expands if you’re willing to check the bag.

The downside is the polyester fabric isn’t as hardwearing as the tougher Cordura nylon and the 5-year warranty doesn’t cover accidental damage.

And finally, I present the REI Wheely Beast 28-inch, 2009 Gear of the Year, highly recommended by many travelers and industry leaders.

“If you just need one huge rolling bag … it’s tough, well designed and less expensive than similar rolling duffels from Eagle Creek and Osprey.”

The ballistic nylon shell brushes off travel abuse and inside are plenty of convenient compartment and pockets, including - and I love this - a spot to quarantine dirty clothes. At 28 inches this is definitely a bag to be checked, and it’s so roomy in fact users advise to watch your weight limit because it’s easier to go over ($149).

ConsumerSearch.com has a more extensive list of 6 top luggage pieces, as well as many other consumer-reviewed travel accessories.

Packing

Make sure that somewhere on your luggage you have clearly marked your name and contact information. Tie a brightly colored ribbon around the handle so when you pick it up from the luggage carousel it’ll be easy to spot in the crowd.

Use an airport security approved lock, otherwise they can and will cut yours open. If you bring gifts leave them unwrapped because all luggage is subject to inspection.

All valuables, medications and important documents should stay on your person or carry-on in the event that your checked luggage is lost.

For $10, the Travelon Luggage Scale means the end of surprise baggage fees. This handy little gadget is easy to use - just slip the hook under one of your bag’s straps or handles and lift. It’ll weigh and display your luggage’s weight in pounds and kilograms.

In a pinch, you can also use a bathroom scale. Weigh yourself, and then weight yourself holding the luggage, and subtract.

LuggageZone.com recommends,

"... never leave the zipper-pulls at the corner of a suitcase. Instead, try leaving them in the middle of the case. Luggage receives more blows to the corners than anywhere else. Your zippers will thank you."

ConsumerSearch.com also recommends that you look into the zipper construction:

"Handles and zippers are potential weak points. Most complaints about durability involve handles and zippers breaking, bending or sticking. Chain zippers, which are fused to the fabric, are more durable than coil zippers, which are sewn on. In either type, look for the YKK brand. Check handles for comfort, too.”

P.S. 

If you need some help determining which luggage set is best for you and your travel needs, contact one of our experienced travel consultants for assistance. We'd be happy to help you!

Located in lovely North Beach, Caffe Trieste is a local gem with an authentic Italian vibe, robust espresso, jukebox melodies and rich history. 

Sit outside, read a book and channel former frequent guests: Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and Francis Ford Coppola (who drafted The Godfather here). Jumpstart your day with a Cafe Latte and plan your itinerary. Or head over after dinner for a cappuccino and some of their delicious baked goods. There is a terrific selection of loose teas as well.

The Caffe has a long-running, rich music tradition. It hosts weekly concerts and poetry readings. 

Cash only. Free WiFi. Be prepared for lines. 

Caffe Trieste Website

Hours: Mon - Thurs, Sun 6:30am-10pm; Fri - Sa 6:30am-12am

Address: 1465 25th Street

Tel: 415.550.1107

Caffe Mediterraneum, or simply Caffe Med, is another infamous Bay area café located on Telegraph Avenue in Berkeley - a city on the east shore of the San Francisco Bay. It’s the alleged birth place of the first Cafe Latte, and was described in the Fodor’s guidebook as “a relic of 1960s-era café culture.” 

Located: 2475 Telegraph Avenue, between Haste Street and Dwight Way

Central Park beats in the heart of NYC, a vast green swathe of open space in Uptown Manhattan encompassing a district in its own right. One of the many treasures in the Park is one of its most beautiful buildings, the Belvedere Castle, which is also the Park Nature Observatory. The observatory, which rests on Vista Rock, is one of the park's highest points and provides fantastic views of the surrounding space.

The Belvedere Castle offers photographers an ideal location for capturing the sweeping space of Central Park, with particularly fine views to the north.

Inside is a visitor’s center in addition to a nature conservatory. Outside of the castle is Turtle Pond, a small, swampy pond with various fish, frogs, and birds. The (Henry Luce) Nature Observatory at the top of the castle is an excellent educational site with information about the wildlife of the park.

This is a great spot to bring your kids: there are microscopes, telescopes, and Discovery Kits complete with binoculars, maps, and note paper, “designed to give young visitors an insight into methodology of naturalists.” The second floor bird watching location is appropriately decorated with pretty papier mâché replicas of the birds found in the Park.

Free!

Information from the Central Park Website 
Hours: Tuesday - Sunday 10am-6pm 
Location: Mid-Park at 79th Street 
Tel: 212/ 772.0210 

How about a long weekend in the big apple? See the city all lit up and get some of your holiday shopping done. We can make all of the arrangements in a snap - you don't have to worry about anything.

The splendor of Roman art and culture certainly didn't end with the Renaissance period. The MAXXI Museum is proof that the arts are alive and well in contemporary Rome, and is home to a diverse collection of local and international exhibits and galleries.

MAXXI - the National Museum of XXI Century Arts - is Italy’s first national institution devoted to contemporary creativity and conceived as a broad cultural canvas. MAXXI is managed by a Foundation of the Ministry for Cultural Heritage and Activities and houses two museums: MAXXI Art and MAXXI Architecture.

Above all, MAXXI is “a laboratory for cultural experimentation and innovation, for the study, research and production of the aesthetic contents of out time.”

The MAXXI building itself is a major architectural work designed by Zaha Hadid, located in Rome’s Flaminio quarter and featuring innovative and spectacular forms.

Here is information on guided tours. If you want a tour in English you will have to reserve a private group tour ahead of time. Otherwise you can purchase your tickets at the ticket office directly or by telephone.

The bookshop is impressive, with an array of art, architecture, design and photography titles chosen from among the best of Italian and international art markets; perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

The MAXXI21 cafeteria & restaurant has an interesting selection, menu items ranging from classic Roman cuisine to a “0 calories” menu, “for all those looking for the lightness of homecoming.” No food or drink is allowed inside the galleries and exhibition halls.

The museum is fully accessible.

Photography and video recording is allowed only in the museum plaza and foyer but is forbidden in the exhibition galleries.

Hours: Tue-Wed-Fri-Sun 11am - 7pm; Thur-Sat 11am - 10pm 
The ticket office is open until 1 hour before museum closing. 
Closed: Every Monday

Tel:             +39 06 39967350       
Email: info@fondazionemaxxi.it

Address: via Guido Reni, 4 A, 00196 Roma

Get there: Metro A stop Flaminio followed by tram n. 2 stop Apollodoro 
Bus n. 53, 217, 280, 910 
Directions

Photo Credit

Remember!

Let us make that dream vacation to Rome possible! We know exactly what it takes to create your perfect trip. Just contact us for more info!

Here are some great travel tips posted by the Sacher Hotel in Vienna that will keep the whole family happy. Think museums, zoos, theatres and more.

Here's an excerpt: 

Schönbrunn Zoo

And Remember! 

We know that traveling with the kids can be challenging, so we're here to make your travel experience easier. Contact us and we can set all of the accommodations for your trip so your whole family can enjoy themselves.

The Zig Zag Café is a classic cocktail bar and restaurant with a chic, unpretentious vibe and an eclectic crowd of young and old, local and tourist, sharing good food, drink and company. Don't miss this top nightlife spot during your trip to Seattle.

Inside  is dark and atmospheric with a boisterous and social crowd. It gets bumping into the night without feeling uncomfortably packed. The juke box plays funky jazz music.

Bartenders are fantastic: attentive without being pushy, professional and friendly mixologists who care about their work. In fact, bartender Murray Stenson was named ”Best Bartender in America” by his peers at the Tales of Cocktail Festival.

The Zig Zag Café offers an award-winning cocktail list. Updated regularly it features tried and true favorites plus innovative concoctions that will satisfy every taste bud. Try the Seventh Heaven, Satan’s Soulpatch, or the bar’s infamous Mojito. Or ask the server or bartender for a recommendation. Cocktails are $10+.

Delicious food too! Try the spicy, curried scallops, fresh bruschetta or if you’re hungry, the Bison Steak with potatoes and veggies.

Go during happy hour for excellent values: house cocktails at $4.75 and food under $10

Hours: 5pm-2am Every day

Address: 1501 Western Avenue #202 on the Pike Street Hill Climb behind the Pike Place Market. No name outside - it’s next door to the El Puerco Lloron. 
Get There 
Tel:**             (206) 625-1146      

Remember!

We can plan your getaway trip to this cool, North-Pacific city in a snap. Just contact one of our agents and can take care of everything. 

Kon'nichiwa!

I got a lot of good recipes writing this street food guide, like hard-boiled tea eggs, oven-roasted sweet potatoes and skewered scorpions (just kidding about that last one).

As you make your way through the wide and wondrous countries of East Asia, here’s the rundown on everything you need to know about the street food.

Don’t Get Overcharged 
As pointed out by the Egg But No Bacon Guide to Chinese Street Food, “9 times out of 10 if they can get away with it the sellers will try and overcharge you. Don’t take it as an insult, it’s just the way things are.”

The difference may be nominal due to the currency exchange, but for those of us on a budget, or who just want to practice our haggling skills, why pay more than necessary?

Try to carry around small bills, like 1 Yuan notes. Watch and see how much other people are paying, and then hand the vendor the exact same amount. You’re far less likely to get swindled if you know how much to pay.

Also, learn a few key numbers and words in the local language, like “How much?” and “too expensive” (Tai guile! in Mandarin Chinese).

Watch for Hot Food 
I don’t mean spicy hot - I mean steaming, boiling, fresh from the fire, hot. Which is a good thing - you want your food served that way because you’re less likely to get sick - but when you’re sipping some soup or biting into a Xiaolongbao (a puffy, fluffy Shanghai Steamed Soup Dumpling), take heed.

Which is why you should know …

What to Drink 
Food isn’t the only thing available from street carts.

Across the region, mongolian milk tea is a popular, delicious and salty snack.

In Mongolia, dairy products are super ubiquitous and you can find milk from all five of the domestic animals in the country: sheep, cattle, goats, camels and horses. Dried milk curd, fermented cheese, and nermalike, a type of vodka distilled from yoghurt, are also popular.

Also try sugar cane juice, which you can easily find made super fresh. For a sharp, delicious kick, have a TsingTao beer with your dinner.

Know Where To Go 
In East Asia, especially in more urbanized areas, food carts are literally on every block. In China you’ll find a “table” with a selection of ingredients to choose from, and can have your meal made on the spot. In South Korea, street food is served from carts orpojanmacha - covered wagons.

In Smosh.com’s guide to 8 Wild Japanese Street Foods, they mention that Japanese street vendors often operate out of truck that verbalizes its presence, ice-cream truck style. Except instead of music you’ll hear loud chants of the name of the product from blocks away.

Younger vendors in Japan have wizened up and now cater to the drunchie crowd, waiting outside of bars or other late night haunts for those seeking a salty, late-night snack.

And like we’ve said in our last two installments, long lines in front of the stand is a universal sign for good food.

Get Skewered 
In China, skewers are available just about everywhere with every ingredient imaginable. You can even get soup on a stick, in which the ingredients are skewered in a bowl ofMalatang (those puffy buns).

Other skewered treats include lamb, grasshoppers, silk warms, centipedes, lobsters, starfish, snakes, scorpions, chicken intestines, pretty much any part of a pig, corn, crabs, snails, crocodile - you name it.

So try to …

Be Open-Minded 
One anecdote from the Egg But No Bacon article was about the very popular hard boiled eggs in China. Their travel group came across several of the “normal” white variety but also some brownish ones in a big pot of boiling black liquid.

Thinking they were the infamous 100 year old eggs, they avoided them until they found out they were simply regular eggs boiled in tea and spices, giving them an amazingly new, nutty flavor.

Another seemingly scary but surprisingly delicious snack are the fried fish balls you can find in Hong Kong (the curry flavor in particular is wonderful).

Now, that doesn’t mean you have to try skewered scorpions or silkworms to earn your traveler cred. Always go with your instincts.

And enjoy!

More Resources 
Follow Me Foodie: China - Street Food - REAL traditional street food in China

Pictures & Photos of Street Food in Beijing, China

Off Track Planet’s Guide to Street Food: China

Street Food: Japan Street Food Tour Day 8 - Sayonara Osaka

Simon Seeks: South Korea - Street Food with Seoul

Venere: Where to Get Street Food in Hong Kong

Check out the Asia Recipe site for more info on Mongolian cuisine.

Bonus!

If you're ready to have an adventure in East Asia, we're here to help you plan and book your trip. Just contact us for more info. 

Even though English-speaking locals are becoming more and more common, you’re going to find tons of places around the world where it’s not.

And having even the most basic command of the native tongue can get you out of some pretty sticky situations, plus just make your entire trip run smoother.‬

So here are the tips that’ll break down that language barrier while you travel.

Before You Go 
Learn the basics. Memorize or write down important phrases like, “My name is ____,” “I need a taxi,” and “Where is the bathroom / train / hotel?” along with some greetings, numbers, and anything else you think is important.

Don’t fret if you’re not exactly fluent. By having some of the basics down you’ll have a solid context to build on once you’re there and can see firsthand how the language is used.

Sign Language 
All of those games of charades are finally paying off. You’d be surprised by just how much you can communicate with some quality sign language.

And you’re already a pro! We use it constantly in normal interaction and for the most part, it’s universal. Everyone understands “to drink,” “to eat,” and “to sleep.”

Sometimes though, signing just won’t cut it, in which case …

Go Go Gadget 
If you have a smart phone this should be a no-brainer. Download some language apps to help you translate and pronounce words. Here’s a list of 50 iPhone Apps to Help You Learn a New Language.

There are some other cool options, like the Nyrius Global Digital Translator that we’ve already talked about and recommended. Handheld, simple and effective, it can be your best friend abroad.

Or Go Paper 
If you don’t want to worry about keeping a gadget safe during your trip, or maybe just want a backup, bring a small dictionary or phrase book.

One good tip I got from the One Travel blog is to bring a picture language guide. Something like a pamphlet with pictures of anything you might need to reference so at any moment you can whip it out and point to say, a toilet or an ATM. You can even make your own with some simple computer graphics and a printer. Especially recommended for those with food allergies.

Take a Class 
Nowadays almost anywhere you go you can find a language class to enroll in during your trip. Whether it’s 4 weeks or 2 semesters, having formal instruction will compliment your day-to-day interactions in the street.

If you already have a good grasp of the language, study a new topic. For example, I studied literature and economics in Peru. Not only were my classes in Spanish but we went on field trips around the city to various sectors and even excursions to different districts in the country. The cultural immersion was invaluable, not to mention fun and meaningful.

Make The Effort 
A little goes a long way in showing locals that you are interested in learning and engaging in their culture. If you make the effort they will almost always try to meet you halfway.

Don’t get impatient when you’re not understood. And don’t be afraid to make a mistake! Embarrassment is your worst enemy when it comes to learning a language because it can seriously stump your development.

Practice, practice, practice! Remember that anyone you’d want to talk to isn’t going to make you feel bad about your mistakes. Having confidence will strengthen your fluency.

Good luck!

I just returned from a conference of close to 1,000 travel agents to Sin City Nevada or Las Vegas Nevada. I have been here a few times over my career and still am so amazed at the amount of travellers that migrate here daily. 

Walking down Las Vegas Boulavard on a Saturday night you will see groups of conference attendees, couples who just tied the knot, many young people having stag and stagette parties and a few just legal age drinker parties!

Las Vegas never sleeps and no matter what time of day evening or morning the casinos seem to be busy. My colleagues from Northstar Travel had the chance to go to Freemont Street (old Las Vegas) on one particular night and I was told it was very active and had a different feel then the strip.

My week was topped of by seeing another Cirque Du Soleil show  O at the 5 star Bellagio. An amazing production if you ever have the chance.

Oh..we stayed at trendy new hotel The Cosmopolitan that has an amazing 3 floor chandelier bar!

If you have any interest in visiting Vegas in the future contact us...your experst in travel!

A few years ago I was lucky enough to visit two amazing countries that I feel are hidden from tourism in Canada. Chile...known for their amazing wines and Argentina home of the Tango! 

These two nations share a border but seem to be complete opposites. Santiago and Buenos Ares would be like Winnipeg to new York City. One is smaller and quaint while the other is monsterous and full of life 24 hours a day. 

My memories included doing several wine tours surrounding Chile and the coastal cities of Valpraiso and Vina Del Mar to visitng the Goucho Ranches outside of Buenos Ares. If you are looking for nighlife and plenty of shopping then check out Argentina. 

Honduras is a very beautiful and friendly place to be. While I was there I went Zip Lining in the Roatan Jungle, this was an amazing experience. I was a little nervous about the height but they are start you off small and you work your way up. The staff are so friendly and wonderful here as well. I would definitely return to this beautiful Island,