The Allure of Business Class, is it worth the extra cost?
There’s something undeniably enticing about the perks of business class: the allure of a lay-flat seat, upgraded drinks, and a meal selected from a menu and served on a lovely plate with a folded cloth napkin. A larger screen for movies, a Bose headset, and a welcome kit with essentials like lip balm, hand cream, a toothbrush, and a comb. Settling into your private cubby, you might almost believe you’re one of the few on this flight.
But, are these reasons enough to justify paying thousands of dollars extra? After all, the meal is still an airplane meal, and the bed isn’t as comfortable as a 5-star hotel’s. You might argue that you’d rather spend that extra money elsewhere.
Why I Believe in Business Class
The real value of business class goes beyond the obvious perks.
Check-in: The experience begins with not having to stand in line for more than five minutes. Dropping off bags is a breeze, and seeing them tagged as “priority” is a nice touch.
Priority Security: Some airports and airlines offer business passengers priority security lines, saving even more time.
Airport Lounge Access: Enjoying a meal and a comfortable seat in an airport lounge, rather than fighting with the masses, is a treat, particularly if you don’t like feeling like herded cattle.
Flight Delays or Cancellations: If there’s a delay or cancellation, getting assistance within the lounge rather than at a customer service desk is priceless. What might take hours in line can often be resolved within 15 minutes in the lounge.
First Off the Plane: Being among the first off the plane typically means you’re first in line at immigration, saving even more time.
Beating the Jet Lag: The real quality of business class is the solid chance of beating jet lag. Not only are you likely ready to explore as soon as you get off the plane, but it also greatly helps in adjusting to the new time quickly.
Tips for Beating Jet Lag (Even if You Fly Economy)
Drink Water: Stay hydrated by drinking 2-3 times as much water as you would on the ground. The dry air on the plane can dehydrate you, so replenishing your body’s 70% water content helps you adjust more easily.
Limit Alcohol: Avoid or limit alcohol intake as it can dehydrate you further.
Nap Wisely: Upon arrival, allow yourself a short nap (no more than 2-3 hours). After that, get moving—walk around, explore, and have a healthy dinner. Aim to stay awake until at least 8 pm local time.
Wake Up Early: Set a consistent wake-up time. If you plan to be on the go by 8 am every day, force yourself to get out of bed by 7 am. Catch some daylight right away to signal your body to adjust to the new time zone.
Following these steps should help you adjust smoothly.
Share your thoughts
Do you love flying business class, or do you feel it’s not worth the cost? Have any jet lag tips to share? I’d love to hear from you.
At AAV Travel, we specialize in creating customized itineraries, saving our clients time, and ensuring their vacations are seamless. We take the guesswork out of your travel plans!
Planning a trip to Europe, or just need a refresher since it’s been a while? There’s a lot to know about traveling this diverse continent, and it’s not as straightforward as exploring the United States. While traveling across the States means finding familiar places like McDonald’s, Marriott hotels, or Walmarts everywhere you go, Europe offers a completely different experience.
In Europe, every country has its own language, and some even have several. These countries have rich histories dating back hundreds of years, leading to unique cultures, architecture, and cuisines. For example, the UK was founded in 927 AD, Portugal in 1143, Switzerland in 1291, and the Netherlands in 1581. Each country has its distinct characteristics—some are more organized, while others are more laid-back and passionate.
Geography also plays a huge role in travel. A distance that looks short on the map can take hours if there’s a mountain in the way. While some countries have modern infrastructure, others have evolved differently due to their geography and culture.
To make the most of your trip, take time to learn about the country you want to visit. Does it have multiple points of interest? How much time do you need to truly immerse yourself and not just snap a quick photo?
As a rule, if you only have a week, dedicate it to one country. For two weeks, focus on a country like Italy or Greece. If you want to city-hop between places like London, Paris, and Amsterdam, go for it! But if you want to truly embrace a country like France or the UK, spend your two weeks there. Many people combine Ireland and the UK, which works with two weeks, but to see Ireland properly, you need two weeks, and at least three weeks for the UK.
Commit that kind of time, and you can truly say you’ve visited and know the country well.
At AAV Travel, we make planning easy and stress-free; plus, we provide expert guidance, making your European itinerary seamless and something to remember!
Walking is deeply ingrained in the daily routines of many Europeans, with urban planning often prioritizing pedestrian-friendly environments. Cities feature narrow, historic streets and well-maintained sidewalks that encourage locals and tourists to explore by foot.
In iconic cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen, walking is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s a way to immerse oneself in the local culture, enjoy bustling street life, and take in beautiful sights. Additionally, public policies that support pedestrian infrastructure make walking a convenient, healthy, and enjoyable choice for navigating urban areas. Many times, walking is the most efficient way to get from point A to point B.
If you’re not used to walking a lot, exploring European cities can feel pretty overwhelming. For starters, you might find yourself covering much more ground on foot than you’re used to, which can be pretty tiring. The cobblestone streets, hills, and stairs in those charming historic areas can add to the challenge. Plus, locals tend to walk briskly and confidently, making it easy to feel a bit out of step. Navigating through bustling crowds, busy streets, and unfamiliar places takes a lot of energy and can be quite a shock if you’re more accustomed to driving everywhere.
So here are a few tips to get prepared. Ideally, you start about two months before your trip:
Walk with friends. Join a walking club or get together with friends who enjoy the outdoors.
Experienced walkers can offer valuable tips and motivation, like recommending the best shoes for comfort.
Pick up the pace and try different terrains. Cobblestones, potholes, uneven streets, and inclines are all very common in Europe.
Invest in comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, and don’t skimp on good-quality socks.
Consider the weather, too—a waterproof option is better for wet climates than mesh sneakers.
Remember to dress in layers. This helps regulate moisture and temperature; being outside more means a quick trip back for extra clothes might not be convenient.
Be prepared to pay steep prices in Paris as the games approach. Hotels and food will become more expensive, and some metro stations might close. Check the Paris Ministry of Transport website for updates on those closures. Arrange transfer in advance, as strikes could affect public transportation.
Our tip: If you don’t like crowds, avoid Paris this summer and choose a more laid-back spot.
The consequence of climate change: Natural occurrences
Europe is set to face a major heatwave in 2024, and unfortunately, natural disasters are becoming more frequent in this region. Massive floods hit Germany and Belgium last year and are now back. Greece dealt with wildfires in 2023. Iceland’s volcano keeps erupting.
That River cruise you booked may not be operating as planned. The hotel you booked may not have air conditioning or have restrictions on air conditioning use due to environmental objectives.
Our Tip: A professional travel advisor has deep insights into European travel because they stay updated on various factors that can impact your trip, such as natural disasters, political changes, and strikes. Their extensive network and access to real-time information allow them to anticipate and navigate potential disruptions. They can provide personalized advice and contingency plans that you might not easily find on your own, ensuring a smoother and safer travel experience.
Train travel is an awesome way to explore Europe, but air and land transportation has been delayed more frequently lately. Major travel strikes are happening across several countries. To deal with these inevitable strikes, it’s smart to prepare for delays and have a backup plan ready.
Our Tip: Slow down! Instead of hopping around every other day from city to city, country to the next, allow yourself time. That way, you still have days left if you miss a day and some space to make alternate arrangements. A good travel advisor will help you create an itinerary that holds up!
Popular attraction tickets are getting scalped. Some of the best guides refuse their services because the sights are overcrowded. Some attraction time slots, like the Colosseum in Rome, are allocated at the last minute. That said, your tour time could change.
Our Tip: You get what you pay for! Trust your advisor, upgrade your experiences, get up early, and don’t overload your day.
The city of Venice rolled out its one-day visitor fee this summer. On arrival, train passengers are checked to see if they purchased a day pass and fined if not. Venice overnight guests have to file an exception. The town of Clovelly in Cornwall charges a daily visitor fee. Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland, is discussing implementing a fee for visitors arriving by car. This is becoming the norm.
Our Tip:Work with a specialist! Unless you are a very thorough trip planner with hours to learn about destinations and how best to navigate them, trust an expert to help you craft your trip and prepare you ahead of time.
Is Europe on your mind? Reach out, and we will happily help you plan your trip!
November 2020, I had the pleasure of participating in Colombia’s Nature Travel Mart. Three days filled with mingling with local travel professionals and learning a lot about what this wonderful country has to offer.
Emerging from a tumultuous past, Colombia has turned over a new leaf and become one of the most sustainable and progressive tourism destinations.
A few incredible facts:
Colombia has the most extensive bird diversity worldwide
The country shares land borders with five nations: Venezuela, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Panama
Colombia offers both Pacific and Caribbean coastlines
Much of its territory is challenging to the point that you have to fly even small distances
Colombia enjoys 314 different types of ecosystems, making it one of the most diverse countries in the world
Colombia boasts 54 protected areas within its 441,200 sqm (about double the size of Texas)
Colombia offers something for everyone, and a trip can be customized according to interests and desired adventure level.
Keep in mind that many destination combinations require a short flight to connect one place with the next. Before going into more detail, have a look at the country’s map. I find it helpful to locate the different areas.
The initial gateways
Cartagena, the City of Romance, is located south along the Caribbean Coast. This romantic colonial city is perfect for couples that love to stroll cobblestone streets and enjoy boutique hotels.
Bogota, the high-altitude capital, sits in the center of Colombia and is marked with a star. Around the city, you will find the best area to see fantastic wildlife, including jaguars.
Medellin, once the most dangerous city and now an example of transformation. Voted the most innovative city in 2014, Medellin is a hub for tech companies and dazzles visitors. It is located between Bogota and Panama.
Cali, also known as the Salsa dancing capital, is a gateway for some birdwatching and located along the western side of Colombia.
Each of these main gateways offers different experiences that can be combined and ultimately define how many days you need to get to know Colombia.
What to do from:
CARTAGENA
Cartagena makes an excellent gateway to explore Colombia’s Caribbean Coast, including Santa Rosa, Tayrona National Park, and several off-shore islands. A visit to this area can also be combined with Panama and the San Blas islands.
BOGOTA
Being Colombia’s capital, Bogota offers worldly comforts and makes for an excellent gateway for bird and wildlife watching. Although a year- round destination, I have it on good authority to avoid a visit in April and October, unless you love gloomy, grey weather. At 8530 feet above sea level, the area is generally colder.
From Bogota, you might also choose to fly to Yopal, from where to access Los llanos area consisting of seasonally flooded plains and grassland, that provide safari-like mammals and other animals. Another unique feature of the flatlands is the local cowboys, which have a long tradition of singing to their cattle. It’s a gorgeous area to escape to a Finca from where to explore the grounds during the day, riding, river floating, animal watching, and then peacefully sip an excellent glass of wine in the evening.
MEDELLIN
Between Medellin, Cali, and Bogota, you will find Colombia’s Coffee triangle. This fertile triangle is well known for its charming rural towns and, of course, fantastic coffee.
Medellin is also great for a day trip to El Penol and Guatape.
CALI
Colombia remains a very authentic destination with tourism just emerging. Cali is even more off the beaten path. The city proclaims itself as the capital of Salsa because of its long history with the dance. If you love rhythm and Latin dancing, you will want to explore the many bars and dance the night away. And if birds are what you are after, the mountains around Cali are home to a fantastic bird watching lodge. Being not far from the coast, Cali is also an excellent gateway for Pacific whale watching.
And if all this wasn’t enough already, there is much more to explore. You can find snowfields and glaciers, colorful rivers, immerse yourself in an off-the-grid experience along the Amazon river, study cave paintings, and hike the Lost City Trek. Colombia will appeal to you, whether you want to learn more about a country or indulge in a passion while doing so. Whether your interest is in hiking, biking, horseback riding, bird watching, frog watching, wildlife viewing, or coffee tasting, there is plenty to do! You can have a reasonably modern experience, but you can also go off the beaten path and get out of your comfort zone.
Keep in mind that there are different climate zones. Rainfall, temperatures vary and might make one region more accessible than another. If you’ve been, I’d love to hear about your experience, and if you would like to visit or learn more, please reach out to me.
Daydreaming is easy, healthy, and free! Here at AAV Travel, we would like to give your mind a break and the opportunity to enjoy and learn more about the world from the comfort of your home.
Although well known and popular with Europeans, Norway still feels like an off-radar destination for many Americans. Nearly 70 % of Norway is uninhabited, making it an incredible nature playground. Gorgeous views wherever you look! Although winter in Norway might seem dreary, it becomes a true snow-clad paradise. Along the coast, the temperatures usually stay around 32 F. Of course, making it perfect for winter activities. #tourismstrong
Norway is also known as the Land of the Midnight Sun.
Norway is famous for its fresh, farm to table food approach. Seafood, which is often smoked, is part of many dishes. Dairy products, as well as cheese usually made from goat or sheep milk, are an everyday staple as well.
You can expect a very creative and innovative food culture wherever you go. One particular gem, though, is the historic town of Røros, which sits inland not far from the border to Sweden, about five hours north of Oslo. Founded in 1644, it is home to some of the oldest buildings in Europe and has a fairy tale feel. It is also well known as one of Norway’s leading food regions as everything grows very slowly in Røros, and hence develops a distinctive taste.
Learn how to make a “Beef Tartar with Truffle Cream” with Tareq Taylor, a chef from Sweden who hosts a Nordic Cookery series. In this episode, he prepares the beef tartar in the streets of Røros.
Believe it or not, Norway is also home to the world’s largest underwater restaurant! Serving a sustainable menu based on local seafood and forest plants, this is a real bucket list experience in Lindesnes, located on the Southern tip of Norway.
Without a doubt, A-HA are Norway’s most famous export. No one else has come close to their fame and status. However, there are plenty of bands, especially of the electronic and pop genre to check out and listen to. Many of the artists sing in English, which makes their music more approachable from an international standpoint.
You’ll find quite a good selection of movie genres are coming from Norway. Some are quirky, others historical, some are dark, and others heroic.
Elling: When his mother, who has sheltered him his entire 40 years, dies, Elling, a sensitive, would-be poet, is sent to live in a state institution. There he meets Kjell Bjarne, a gentle giant and female-obsessed virgin in his 40s.
Max Manus Man of War: Max Manus tells a parallel story of Norway’s greatest Second World War hero, a ruthless anti-Nazi whose military skills were learned to fight with the Finns against the Soviet invaders.
In Order of Disappearance: Introverted and hard-working snowplow driver Nils has just been named Citizen of The Year, when he receives news that his son has died of a heroin overdose. Disbelieving the official report, he searches to find out the truth.
For those of you who have access to Netflix, there are some Norwegian series you can watch:
Nobel, a series of incidents in Afghanistan, set complicated political and personal events in motion for a returning Norwegian Special Forces officer.
The world is changing, and some might claim headed towards a new Ragnarok, the cataclysmic destruction of the cosmos and everything in it in Norse Mythology. It’s a modern-day interpretation of the story repeating itself, set in a small Norwegian town.
Lilyhammer is the story of a New York mobster going into hiding in the Norwegian town of Lilyhammer.
If you think you might want to visit someday soon, let these clips inspire you!
If you love reading and are ready to go deeper and learn more about the country as well as its history, culture, and behind the scenes, there are some excellent books for you!
The Snow Man (Harry Hole Series) by Jo Nesbo
One night, after the first snowfall of the year, a boy named Jonas wakes up and discovers that his mother has disappeared. Only one trace of her remains: a pink scarf, his Christmas gift to her, now worn by the snowman that inexplicably appeared in their yard earlier that day. Inspector Harry Hole suspects a link between the missing woman and a suspicious letter he’s received. The case deepens when a pattern emerges: over the past decade, eleven women have vanished—all on the day of the first snow. But this is a killer who makes his own rules . . . and he’ll break his pattern just to keep the game interesting, as he draws Harry ever closer into his twisted web. With brilliantly realized characters and hair-raising suspense, international bestselling author Jo Nesbø presents his most chilling case yet—one that will test Harry Hole to the very limits of his sanity. For more…
Out Stealing Horses by Per Petterson
Trond’s friend Jon often appeared at his doorstep with an adventure in mind for the two of them. But this morning was different. What began as a joy ride on “borrowed” horses ends with Jon falling into a strange trance of grief. Trond soon learns what befell Jon earlier that day―an incident that marks the beginning of a series of vital losses for both boys.
Set in the easternmost region of Norway, Out Stealing Horses begins with an ending. Sixty-seven-year-old Trond has settled into a rustic cabin in an isolated area to live the rest of his life with a quiet deliberation. A meeting with his only neighbor, however, forces him to reflect on that fateful summer. For more…
The Social Guidebook to Norway – An Illustrated Introduction by Julien S Bourelle
This is your Social Guidebook to Norway. It takes you through an illustrated Norwegian journey. This guidebook is not about typical Norwegian behaviors. It is about behaviors that are peculiar to Norwegians. For more...
A Dolls House by Henrik Ibsen
Ibsen’s seminal play, which changed modern drama, is a searing view of a male-dominated and authoritarian society, presented with a realism that elevates theater to a level above mere entertainment. The reverberations of Nora’s slamming the door as she leaves Torvald continue to this present day. Nicholas Rudall, justly celebrated for his translations of Ibsen, again provides a play of power and speakability. For more…
Have you heard of Aquavit? Aquavit is distilled from grain or potato and flavored with caraway as the dominant spice. The spirit is truly a Scandinavian favorite, but Norway’s version has a unique twist. While others make an all-clear version, Norway ages theirs in sherry oak casks, that give the liquid a golden color. It also adds a hint of vanilla.
One of Norway’s most famous Aquavits is Linie Aquavit. Linie means “line” and refers to the unique aging process used for this particular brand. The oak barrels are loaded onto ships that cross the equator twice. Rumor has it that this tradition enhances the spirit’s flavor and makes the Aquavit extra smooth due to the barrels continually rolling on the ocean and temperature fluctuations.
Please stay safe and healthy, wash your hands, and practice social distancing as long as it is necessary.
Being able to travel is an incredible gift. The experience can open our eyes to the unique cultures and spellbinding beauty of the natural world. But with this gift comes a responsibility – to protect the world as we know it. Please behave responsibly and show respect!
STEFANIE PICHONNAT Stefanie Pichonnat is the owner of Cumar Gold Travel, a boutique travel firm specialized in creating customized travel itineraries. Originally from Switzerland, she started exploring the world at a young age and continues to expand her knowledge every year.
Daydreaming is easy, healthy, and free! Here at AAV Travel, we would like to give your mind a break and the opportunity to enjoy and learn more about the world from the comfort of your home.
Portugal has long been a well-kept secret among the Europea countries, but with increased tourism awareness campaigns and publicity, it has become a dream destination for many. A relatively small country, the country is similar in size to Pennsylvania, or three times smaller than the UK. Although seemingly small, the nation is mighty with plenty to offer for those who want to explore. #tourismstrong
Anthony Bourdain said, “Portugal has got a lot of coastlines and a lot of history with the sea. It’s a close relationship, one that’s imprinted deep into the national character — the songs, the poetry, the state of mind.”
Of course, that also plays a role when it comes to food. Although cuisine varies from region to region, fresh fish and shellfish are found on virtually any menu. “Bacalhau,” dried, salted cod is Portugal’s national dish. Its root stems back to the 16th century when Portuguese sailors salted and sun-dried their catch abroad so it would last throughout the long journey home. There are many different ways to prepare Bacalhau, as the Portuguese say, there is a different way for each day of the year.
Unlike in the US or Great Britain, breakfast traditionally consists of coffee and a bread roll. Lunch, on the other hand, is a real sit down and enjoy affair, often lasting up to two hours. The same goes for dinner. Although you will be able to find an early meal, the Portuguese dine late, after 8 o’clock.
Check out what to expect on a virtual food tour of Lisbon with James and Alice from Devour Tours, a food tour operator in Portugal and Spain.
If you would like to make a Portugese dish at home, why not try a Bifana?
Portugal is famous for Fado, soulful, heavily expressive and profoundly melancholic singing, usually accompanied by a guitarist. It is often heard in pubs, cafes, and restaurants. If you find yourself wandering the cobblestone streets of Lisbon’s Bairro Alto area one evening, you are sure to hear some Fado wafting through the air.
Portugal is also home to many other genres and different artists. They are as versatile as the country’s regions and fun to listen to!
There is a good selection of movies set in and around Portugal. Some are harder to get your hands on than others, but they are all worth it if you are interested in the storyline.
Based on a book, Nigth Train to Lisbon is the story of a Swiss Professor, who abandons his lectures and buttoned-down life to embark on a thrilling adventure that will take him on a journey to the very heart of himself.
It’s a very tasteful and intriguing movie about finding oneself, showing great shots of both Lisbon and my hometown, the city of Bern, Switzerland.
Capitaes de Abril explores the days leading up to Lisbon’s Carnation Revolution, a historical moment in the 1970s when a military coup led by Captain Fernando José Salgueiro Maia, ended the dictatorship.
Lisbon Story tells the tale of a sound engineer who obtains a mysterious postcard from a friend who is currently shooting a film in Lisbon, saying that he should visit. He sets out across Europe to find him and help him. This movie is a treat with many great shots from Lisbon, Fado, and a romance.
Voyage to the Beginning of the World, or Viagem ao Princípio do Mundo is the story of an aging film director, who takes a road trip across Portugal with his actors.
Christopher Columbus – The Enigma is a Portuguese movie, in which a doctor and his wife embark on a journey to prove that explorer Christopher Columbus was Portuguese, not Italian.
Amalia allows you a glimpse into the life of Amalia Rodriguez, who was a pioneer in Fado music. Dubbed Portugal’s “Queen of Fado,” she sold over 30 million records during her life.
If you are ready to go deeper and learn more about the country as well as its history, culture, and behind the scenes, there are some excellent reads for you!
The Portugese: The Land and its People by Marion Kaplan
The history of Portugal is long and colorful, with nations such as the Romans and the Moors invading. The Portuguese explorers who brought back many influences to the country and the many rulers whose sagas are rich in intrigue. This book introduces the reader to local crafts and festivals of Portugal; trade, industry, and finance; the family, whose links bind tightly and so influence the country; the geographical land with its beauty – the rivers running from the hills in the east to the sea in the west; the character of the people, attitudes, education; the culture, architecture, paintings and poets and novelists. For more info…
The High Mountains of Portugal by Yann Martel
An allegorical novel in three parts is set in the fictional High Mountains of 17th-century Portugal and beyond, where characters explore questions of loss and faith while on a quest while tackling ghosts and in the contemporary world. By the award-winning author of Life of Pi. For more info…
The Book of Disquiet by Fernando Pessoa
From supersummary.com: The Book of Disquiet is a journal by Portuguese author Fernando Pessoa. Published by his friends in 1961, it contains Pessoa’s reflections beginning in 1912 at the age of twenty-four as he anticipated World War I. Pessoa wrote the book mainly for himself under the pseudonym Bernardo Soares, and it was not published until nearly half a century after he died in 1935. Though the format of the book is difficult to pin down, it reads like a diary or journal, dealing with the internal life of the seemingly banal “Soares” as he works as a simple assistant to a bookkeeper in Lisbon. The book became known as a great work in the genre of world literature for its simplistic yet poignant characterization of the ordinary life of a lower-class Portuguese person. For more info…
The Year of the Death of Ricard Reis by Jose Saramago
The year: 1936. Europe dances while an invidious dictator establishes himself in Portugal. The city: Lisbon-gray, colorless, chimerical. Ricardo Reis, a doctor and poet, has just come home after sixteen years in Brazil. Translated by Giovanni Pontiero. For more info…
PORT WINE
Port wine is exclusively produced in Portugal’s north, the Douro valley. The Douro valley is also famous for its wine and makes for a great place to explore if you love culinary vacations.
Port wine is sweet and usually served as a dessert wine or digestif. There are many different versions, including red and white. They all require several years of aging.
This list is compiled in response to the COVID-19 crisis, but also as a resource for anyone considering to travel to Portugal, or wanting to get a feel for the country before their trip.
Please stay safe and healthy, wash your hands, and practice social distancing as long as it is necessary.
Being able to travel is an incredible gift. The experience can open our eyes to the unique cultures and spellbinding beauty of the natural world. But with this gift comes a responsibility – to protect the world as we know it. Please behave responsibly and show respect!
STEFANIE PICHONNAT Stefanie Pichonnat is the owner of Cumar Gold Travel, a boutique travel firm specialized in creating customized travel itineraries. Originally from Switzerland, she started exploring the world at a young age and continues to expand her knowledge every year.
Daydreaming is easy, healthy, and free! Here at AAV Travel, we would like to give your mind a break and the opportunity to enjoy and learn more about the world from the comfort of your home.
The Caribbean island of Grenada supplies nearly forty percent of the world’s annual nutmeg crop. Its importance to the island is so great that it has an honored place on the flag. The variety of spices growing on the island is so big that it has earned the name of Spice Island. Grenada consists of the island itself plus six smaller islands located between the Atlantic and the Caribbean Sea, North of Trinidad and Tobago. One of the islands, Petite Martinique, is independent and an outpost for the gray- and black market trade. A modern-day pirate’s island. #tourismstrong
Unlike some other Caribbean islands, Grenada produces many organic fruits and vegetables. The year-round sunshine and fertile soil is fantastic to grow fresh produce, and there is easy access to fresh-caught fish and seafood.
You will find a fantastic selection of traditional recipes to try, ranging from wholesome, savory dishes to sweet treats.
Explore the island’s culinary aspects with Savor the Spice’s Addie and the 2016 Carnival Queen, Samantha Francis!
Grenada’s most famous dish is Grenadian Oil Down, a melting pot of the island’s cultural history. The hearty stew is made of local veggies, salted meat, and aromatic spice. You might have to travel to Grenada to taste the “real deal,” but Chris from Caribbean Pot has some great tips on how to make it at home.
This is his list of ingredients:
1 medium breadfruit
1 large carrot
2 cups chopped spinach
2 scallions
4 sprigs thyme
1 onion
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon Saffron (tumeric)
black pepper
1 scotch bonnet pepper
3 pimento peppers (seasoning peppers)
2 cups pumpkin
4 green cooking bananas
2 lbs salted pig tail
3 lbs chicken breast
3 cups coconut milk
3 cloves garlic
2 tablespoon chopped parsely
2 tablespoon chopped shado beni
6 eddoes
2 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon caribbean green seasoning for the chicken
Popular music of Grenada is calypso, soca and, to a lesser extent Reggae and Dancehall. Soca is fast-paced, Caribbean carnival dance music, which makes it extremely hard to sit still in a chair when listening to it. Grenada Soca has a distinct style taking on the name of ‘jab jab’ soca.
Island in the Sun, a movie released in 1957, was filmed in Grenada and Barbados. It’s the story of a wealthy landowner’s son fighting for political office against the black leader. The classic movie stars Harry Belafonte, a young Joan Collins, and many others. Have a look at the trailer here:
If you enjoy finding out more about an island before visiting or simply love history, and want to know more about Grenada, make sure to watch this clip. It’s full of interesting information!
This clip features two students sharing their experiences in Grenada and the many activities the island has to offer.
If you love reading and are ready to go deeper and learn more about the country as well as its history, culture, and behind the scenes, there are some excellent books for you!
Blood of Belvidere by Dunbar Campbell Grenada is a marriage between stunning Caribbean beauty and historical conflict. Blood of Belvidere takes readers on an unforgettable journey deep into the tropical mystique that attracted international intrigue to her shores for hundreds of years. As a young boy growing up in Grenada, Scott McDonald’s growing pain becomes intertwined with the legacy behind the strange disappearance of a slave-rebellion leader two-hundred years earlier. Secrets and treachery inflict havoc down eight generations of McDonalds, believed to be descendants of the rebel’s archenemy. For more…
Pynter Bender by Jacob Ross Pynter Bender is a child of the cane fields of Grenada, the second smallest independent state in the world. This extraordinary debut novel tells of a boy born blind but whose eyes are healed, allowing him to see great beauty. The story charts the painful awakening of a rural population, essentially organized around serfdom, into a raw and uncertain future that can only be achieved through fighting—a civil war that Pynter is drawn in to. For more…
Angel by Merle Collins Chronicling the events that took place in Grenada from 1951—when workers revolted against the white owners of the sugar and cocoa estates—to the U.S. invasion in 1983, the book follows headstrong Angel and her mother Doodsie as they experience the deposition of the old, corrupted leadership with conflicted emotions. For more…
Of course, Grenada has its version of a rum punch, which includes a little bit of nutmeg. I think the nutmeg makes all the difference, but when you ask for it on a different Caribbean island, they just look at you weirdly.
Since we’ve already looked at a Jamaican Rum Punch in the Jamaican Daydream post, we’ll go with Andre Victor’s Spice Seduction cocktail instead.
You will need the following ingredients:
• 2 oz. Dark Rum (preferably Clarke’s Court) • 1/2 oz De La Grenade Liqueur* • 1/2 oz Blue Curacao • 3 oz. orange juice • Splash of lime juice • Splash of grenadine syrup • Shake with ice cubes and serve in a martini glass
Please stay safe and healthy, wash your hands, and practice social distancing as long as it is necessary.
Being able to travel is an incredible gift. The experience can open our eyes to the unique cultures and spellbinding beauty of the natural world. But with this gift comes a responsibility – to protect the world as we know it. Please behave responsibly and show respect!
STEFANIE PICHONNAT Stefanie Pichonnat is the owner of Cumar Gold Travel, a boutique travel firm specialized in creating customized travel itineraries. Originally from Switzerland, she started exploring the world at a young age and continues to expand her knowledge every year.
Daydreaming is easy, healthy, and free! Here at AAV Travel, we would like to give your mind a break and the opportunity to enjoy and learn more about the world from the comfort of your home.
A visit to New Zealand is on top of many bucket lists. Jam-packed with extreme natural beauty, jolly kiwis, and fantastic food and drink, New Zealand impresses at every turn!
Cool cities, vineyards, mountains, rainforest, beautiful beaches, glaciers, and valleys. You can spend weeks and never get bored! #tourismstrong
New Zealand’s cuisine could be described as Pacific Rim, with influences from Asia, Polynesia, as well as Europe. The abundance of fresh food, as well as the mix of traditional Maori culture with European influences makes for hugely diversified food experience. With the laid-back Kiwi attitude, dining experiences generally have a more casual feel. Picture fresh farm to table food combined with fantastic local wines in a relaxed atmosphere.
Take a little bit of that:
and add a little bit of this:
And you’ll have an better idea of what to expect.
Anxious to try a recipe at home? How about Kiwi Pavlova?
Whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form in a stand mixer or with a hand mixer.
Add the sugar a tablespoon at a time while the mixer is on high speed until all of the sugar is incorporated. Beat the meringue for a further 5-7 minutes on high speed.
Add the cornflour and vinegar and mix for 30 seconds or so until incorporated.
Turn the pavlova out on a lined baking sheet and shape it into a 9inch or 23cm disc. Bake in a 130C|260F oven for 1 hour and 5 minutes. When the pavlova has finished baking, cool it in the oven without opening the door for 4-5 hours or overnight.
Serve the pavlova topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
Watch the video for hands-on instructions:
Lorde is likely one of New Zealand’s most successful and popular exports, but there are a lot of different bands and artists, as versatile as the country’s landscape. Check out our playlist and listen to some well-established artists, as well as some new and emerging ones.
Whether you want to delve into New Zealand history, escape to a dream world, or drool over beautiful landscapes, here is a selection of six movies to get you started.
Whale Rider: Watch 12-year-old Pai, fight against ancient Maori traditions, which prevent females from being clan chiefs.
The Piano: Scottish Ada and her daughter are sold into marriage and left with all their belongings, including a piano, on a desolate New Zealand beach. This is a deep and amazing movie, no light feat but utterly rewarding.
Bridge to Terabithia: The story of two bullied adolescents that create an imaginary world, Terabithia, which they rule as king and queen.
The Hobbit – An Unexpected Journey: Bilbo and his hobbit friends are on a quest to reclaim Erebor. Most of the movie is filmed in the hobbit village, which you can visit one hour outside of Auckland.
Hunt for the Wilderpeople: A boy and his foster father become the subjects of a manhunt after they get stranded in the New Zealand wilderness. This is a fun movie!
The Insatiable Moon: This 2010 New Zealand drama tells the story of Arthur, a Maori man who sees himself as the second son of a god. He sets off on a mission to find the Queen of Heaven.
If you want to do some daydreaming and possibly plan a visit, check New Zealand’s lovely plea.
This video by Pure New Zealand does a fantastic job capturing New Zealand’s people, their spirit, and the country’s beauty.
If you love reading and are ready to go deeper and learn more about the country as well as its history, culture, and behind the scenes, there are some excellent books for you!
A Good Keen Man by Barry Crump Set against the rugged beauty of the New Zealand backcountry, this is the tale of a young man’s introduction to the art of deer culling and follows the exploits of a good keen man as he learns the skills necessary to become a good bushman. For more…
Pounanu Pounanu by Witi Ihimaera
A collection of original stories that showed how crucial Maori identity is for all New Zealanders. For more…
The Penguin History of New Zealand by Michael King New Zealand was the last country in the world to be discovered and settled by humankind. It was also the first to introduce full democracy. Between those events, and in the century that followed, the movements and conflicts of human history have been played out more intensively and more rapidly in New Zealand than anywhere else on Earth.
The Penguin History of New Zealand tells that story in all its color and drama. The narrative that emerges is an inclusive one about men and women, Maori and Pakeha. It shows that British motives in colonizing New Zealand were essentially humane; and that Maori, far from being passive victims of a ‘fatal impact’, coped heroically with colonization and survived by selectively accepting and adapting what Western technology and culture had to offer. For more…
A Kiwi Year: Twelve Months in the Life of New Zealand Kids by Tania Mccartney A multicultural blend of culture and race that typifies our amazing country. They’ll take you through a year in the life of New Zealand’s kids, from celebrations, traditions, and events, to our everyday way of life and the little things that make childhood so memorable. For more…
Do They Speak English Down There? by Susan Tunney Read how one family transformed fantasy into reality when they traded in their San Diego lifestyle to move to rural New Zealand along with the challenges it presented, adapting to a new culture. From duct tape to #8 wire, its been one helluva journey. For more…
Squashed Possums: Off the Beaten Track in New Zealand by Jonathan Tindale Ten years after returning from the New Zealand outback, Jon receives a mysterious manuscript in the post. Narrated by Jon’s former home, the lone caravan, Squashed Possums, reveals what it’s like to live in the wild through four seasons, including New Zealand’s coldest winter in decades. For more…
Since New Zealand is home to many excellent vineyards, how about a wine tasting?
75 % of all grapes harvested are picked on the South Island in the Marlborough region. Hawke’s Bay is located on the North Island, South of Auckland, and makes up for 12 % of the harvest.
The majority of the wines are white, so why not compare a Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, with one from Hawke’s Bay?
Please stay safe and healthy, wash your hands, and practice social distancing as long as it is necessary.
Being able to travel is an incredible gift. The experience can open our eyes to the unique cultures and spellbinding beauty of the natural world. But with this gift comes a responsibility – to protect the world as we know it. Please behave responsibly and show respect!
STEFANIE PICHONNAT Stefanie Pichonnat is the owner of Cumar Gold Travel, a boutique travel firm specialized in creating customized travel itineraries. Originally from Switzerland, she started exploring the world at a young age and continues to expand her knowledge every year.
Daydreaming is easy, healthy, and free! Here at AAV Travel, we would like to give your mind a break and the opportunity to enjoy and learn more about the world from the comfort of your home.
Ireland is likely one of the most loved and cherished European countries, particularly by Americans. This post celebrates a nation with plenty of history, heart, culture, and passion! #tourismstrong
Irish food needs no introduction! Meat, potato, milk, and dairy have shaped Ireland’s food culture since the middle ages. Surrounded by the sea with many rivers and lakes, seafood naturally plays an important role as well. Today, Ireland has a thriving food scene, which combines the traditional with a more modern approach.
Galway hosts the Irish food festival each year, celebrating the areas rich culinary landscape and is also home to some incredible food tour operators. I particularly enjoy working with Padraic when creating itineraries around Galway. He takes clients to the Aran Islands, or all across Connemara for food as well as pub tours.
Another fantastic area for foodies is the Coastal Causeway in Northern Ireland. At AAV Travel, we love it when females take action and happily send our clients to explore the region with Portia, the founder of Toast to Coast food tours.
There are, of course, many reasons to visit Ireland, but you wish, you can make your visit all about food and drink.
Are you ready to try a winter recipe at home?
Irish Leek & Potato Soup
Ingredients:
2 Tablespoons of vegetable oil or butter
1onionchopped
2 garlic cloves chopped
3large leekstrimmed, sliced, thoroughly rinsed, and dried
3spuds diced (russet potatoes)
1 1/2 teaspoons of salt
2 liters of vegetable stock
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Easy to follow instructions, courtesy of the Happy Pear and Melanie Murphy.
Irish music is as varied as Ireland’s weather. From rock to traditional folk music, there is something for everyone. Our playlist highlights many of the country’s favorites, but there are more, so many more.
Whether you want to delve into Ireland’s history, enjoy some Irish music, or drool over the gorgeous landscapes, there are many movies to pick from. Here is a selection of six to get you started.
Michael Collins: The story of Michael Collins and the Irish Republican Army fighting for Ireland’s independence from the British.
The Quiet Man: Irish-American boxer John Wayne, accidentally kills a man in the ring and returns to the Irish village where he was born. Hoping for a tranquil life, Wayne purchases a home that is also coveted by pugnacious squire Victor McLaglen. This 1952 movie is set in the village of Cong in the west of Ireland.
Angela’s Ashes: Angela’s Ashes follows the experiences of young Frankie and his family as they try against all the odds to escape the poverty endemic in the slums of pre-war Limerick.
P.S. I love you: Although sad at times, it is a romantic comedy. A grieving widow follows a series of tasks to be revealed in ten monthly messages left by her husband and designed to help her overcome her sorrow while gradually making the transition into a new life.
The Commitments: Jimmy Rabbitte, a self-proclaimed promoter, decides to organize an R&B group to fill the musical void in his hometown of Dublin. The band comes together but consists entirely of white musicians who have little experience with R&B.
The Secret of Roan Inish: Ten-year-old Fiona is sent to Donegal to live with her grandparents. On the nearby island of Roan Inish, she spies a wild child. Fiona believes that the child is her long-lost brother, who mysteriously disappeared when his cradle floated out on the tide.
If you want to do some daydreaming and possibly plan a visit, check out this clip about the rugged West Coast.
If you are interested in Dublin, check out N.Y. Times’ 36 Hours in Dublin clip!
Although Ireland appears small in size, it is one of the most varied countries. This clip takes you across the island to explore some of the most stunning landscapes.
If you love reading and are ready to go deeper and learn more about the country as well as its history, culture, and behind the scenes, there are some excellent books for you!
Round Ireland with a Fridge by Tony Hawks TV comedian Tony Hawks tries to win a bet by hitchhiking around the circumference of Ireland in one calendar month, with a fridge. This is the story of Tony’s adventures—the people he meets, the difficulties, the triumphs, and that fridge. For more…
The Pope’s Children by David McWilliams
This is the special generation, the Irish baby boom of the 1970s that peaked nine months to the day after the Pope’s visit. There are 620,000 of them, squeezed into the middle and lifted up by the Expectocracy. Ireland is blurring. Out of this haze has come the Full-on Nation, the most hedonistic generation ever.
David McWilliams’ brilliant research and analysis of Ireland is a celebration of success. In an easy-to-read style, he takes us to Deckland, that suburban state of mind where you will find the Kells Angels, Breakfast Roll Man, Low GI Jane, and RoboPaddy. Come face to face with the You’re a Star generation, Billy Bunker, fair-trade Frank, Carrot Juice Contrarians, and Bouncy Castle Brendan. We also meet the HiCos, Hibernian Cosmopolitans, the new elite whose distance from Deckland is measured by appreciations and cultivations that Deckland’s rampant credit just can’t buy.
Entertaining and informative, The Pope’s Children told of the vast surge of ambition, money, optimism, and hope in Ireland during the boom. For more…
The Treasury of Irish Folklore by Padraic Colum Everything from Irish myths, superstitions, and even songs of Ireland, are included. From blessings to spells, this book is chocked full of info, ready for you to crack the cover. For more…
Poems by Seamus Heaney This critically-acclaimed body of work brings together roughly 100 poems culled by Seamus Heaney from nine of his collections. For more…
The Heart’s Invisible Furies by John Boyne Cyril Avery is not a real Avery — or at least, that’s what his adoptive parents tell him. And he never will be. But if he isn’t a real Avery, then who is he?
Born out of wedlock to a teenage girl cast out from her rural Irish community and adopted by a well-to-do if eccentric Dublin couple via the intervention of a hunchbacked Redemptorist nun, Cyril is adrift in the world, anchored only tenuously by his heartfelt friendship with the infinitely more glamourous and dangerous Julian Woodbead. At the mercy of fortune and coincidence, he will spend a lifetime coming to know himself and where he came from – and over his many years, will struggle to discover an identity, a home, a country, and much more. For more…
If you watched the 36 Hours in Dublin clip above, you know that the Guinness Brewery’ is one of Ireland’s most visited attractions.
If you have never tasted one before, this might be the moment to try one. Or, if you want to check out one of Ireland’s most popular shots, try a Baby Guinness.
Ingredients:
Coffee Liquor
Irish Cream
Please stay safe and healthy, wash your hands, and practice social distancing as long as it is necessary.
Being able to travel is an incredible gift. The experience can open our eyes to the unique cultures and spellbinding beauty of the natural world. But with this gift comes a responsibility – to protect the world as we know it. Please behave responsibly and show respect!
STEFANIE PICHONNAT Stefanie Pichonnat is the owner of Cumar Gold Travel, a boutique travel firm specialized in creating customized travel itineraries. Originally from Switzerland, she started exploring the world at a young age and continues to expand her knowledge every year.
Cumar Gold Explorations