Yep! There’s an App for that! Travel that is!

What I love the most about my new iPhone is the ‘Apps’ available for travel!  Not only do most iPhone owners use their device for handling all the details of their everyday lives, but thanks to the huge amount of useful travel applications, help is not too far away when you are ready to get up and go travel.

There are lots of Apps to choose from–from packing tips, to tracking your flight, to changing money. My top ten Apps are following. It makes me wonder how I ever managed without them!

1. XE CURRENCY—The XE Currency App converts any currency into other currency on the spot. Since it also it makes use of the iPhone’s internet connection, exchange rates throughout the App are updated as new information becomes available. Feature I love: Shake your iPhone to reset rates. (FREE!)

2.  GOOGLE TRANSLATE—If you’re headed anywhere outside the English-speaking world, chances are this App is for you. The Google Translate App allows you to translate words and phrases by speaking or typing the text between 64 languages. No matter where you travel, you can get help to translate that ever-important question, “Where is the bathroom?” (FREE!)

3. TRIP CASE—TripCase was recently named “Best Travel App” for the iPhone. This App keeps me organized on trips. It stores all my confirmation numbers in one place and will download my flight itinerary. You also receive real time flight alerts and critical travel updates before and during your trip, and it allows you to share travel information with designated friends, family and co-workers. (FREE!)

4. FLIGHTAWARE—This is the easiest, no-frills app to track your flight. Just provide your airline and flight number and let FlightAware App do the rest. Accept the push notification feature for updates on flight delays, gate changes or cancellations. (FREE!)

5. GAS BUDDY—Summer is a great time for road trips and everyone is looking to saving at the gas pumps. In one click, the Gas Buddy App uses your current location to find gas stations near you and post their current gas prices. This App relies on other users to post the prices and tells you how long ago the price was last updated. Gas prices are for USA and Canada only. (FREE!)

6. UPACKINGLIST—The uPackingList App is designed to help you pack quicker and convenient for any journey. You can easily create lists of necessary items and control your packing process. Update your packing list whenever you think you need another thing to take. You can create and maintain an unlimited number of lists and as well use a built-in items catalogue, which is simply customizable per your needs. Cool Feature: send any list via e-mail. (FREE!; upgrade available $).

7. URBANSPOON—Can’t decide where to eat? The Urbanspoon App can help. Find local eats by “shaking” your iPhone and the Urbanspoon slot machine will suggest a restaurant. See what’s nearby or browse a comprehensive list of restaurants. Urbanspoon uses GPS to pick popular restaurants near you; filter by neighborhood, cuisine or price; make reservations; compare restaurant picks with your friends, and more! This App covers all of the U.S. and Canada, and large metro areas in the UK and Australia. (FREE!)

*Alternative:  OPENTABLE is a domestic and international restaurant locator. Complete with instant reservations and reviews, the App lists local restaurants that have availability for your desired reservation time and number of people in your party. (FREE!)

8. POSTAGRAM—Mail a printed photo postcard with the Postagram App. Choose a photo from your iPhone library, Instagram or Facebook and a real postcard will be delivered in a few days. The app is FREE to download. Postagram will take your photo and print it for you for a mere 99 cents. You provide the mailing address from your iPhone and Postagram will send your travel photo through the mail. The first 5 Postagrams are FREE! (limited time offer)!

9. INSTAGRAM—The Instagram app is a way to transform your travel photos from blah to beautiful and share them easily with friends and family.

And  PHOTOSYNTH—Photosynth is an Interactive Panorama Capture and Sharing makes the best of your camera by ‘stitching’ together your photos to create panoramic images. Send 360 degree views to friends and family while you are traveling. It takes a bit to get used to the process, but be patient and the results will amaze you.

10. GPSMYCITY Walking City Tour App—GPSmyCity.com, Inc. is an App that turns your iPhone into a tour guide helping visitors navigate independently and with ease through over 200 cities around the world. With over 2,000 walking tours available, GPSmyCity.com is the largest travel portal of its kinds.

Getting lost is never an option as the App comes with detailed tour route maps and powerful navigation features using GPS technology that guides visitor from one sight to the next with accurate turn-by-turn directions to famous attractions, monuments and interesting sights as well as hidden gems. Audio narration is available on the newer apps. What I like about this App is that the information is provided by people actually living in the cities. Go to App store to GPSmyCity.com, Inc. and download the city you are visiting; lots to choose from. FREE!

MOST PHOTOGRAPHED PLACES IN THE WORLD

By G Adventures

What is the most photographed place on earth? The question is of course impossible to answer and one can only muster a guess. Countless places lay claim to being the most photographed place in the world, including Paris, the Taj Mahal, Walt Disney World, Niagara Falls, Angkor Wat, the Acropolis to name just a small handful.

The only thing that is widely accepted, is that the Sun is the most photographed object (sunsets and sunrises seem to be universally irresistible). But sticking to “planet earth”, let’s take a look at some of the most photographed subjects around the world. Judge for yourself if you consider them “photogenic”.

Here is a checklist of sorts, for people, places and things to photograph on your travels. Some of them are famous, while others may seem a little odd. Either way, whether it’s a bridge or a toilet, some places get all the photographic glory! (Please keep in mind there is no way to verify the following claims.)

Picture source: Amazon River Sunset (IE Travel)

• The Africa “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo) are considered the most photographed animals in the world.
• La Digue island in the Seychelles claims to be the most photographed island in the world.
• Santorini is the most photographed island in Greece often considered the most photographed island in Europe.
• The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is considered to be the most photographed event in the world.
• Table Mountain is the most photographed landmark in South Africa.
• Den Lille Havfrue (the little mermaid) from Copenhagen is the most photographed statue in the world.
• The Golden Gate Bridge is the most photographed US landmark, and most photographed bridge in the world.
• Designed by Frederick Hundertwasser, the Kawakawa public toilets in New Zealand are the most photographed toilets in the world!
• Neuschwanstein castle in Germany claims to be the most photographed castle in the world.
• The Eiffel Tower is considered the most photographed structure in Europe.
• The Evangeline Oak in Louisiana and the Lone Cyprus tree in California are each touted as the most photographed tree in the world.
• Ayers Rock is the most photographed sunset in Australia.
• Abbey Road is often considered the most photographed street in the world.
• Niagara Falls may be the most photographed waterfall in the world.

Inspired? Where do you want to go?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MCJuane Anyone?

As we were walking the streets of Iquitos, we noticed that they were serving these ‘green packages” from food carts. The guide told us it was Juane and that it was a popular ‘fast food’ dish served here in Peru.

Juane was a dish that was usually eaten on the feast day of St. John the Baptist and farmers’ day. Families picnic on that day and this dish, which was a mainstay of the missionaries, became very popular with the Peruvians. Nowadays, this “fast food” dish is eaten all year round. MCJuane anyone!?

We prepared Juane with the Aquamarina Chef on the Amazon Riverboat Cruise who served it for dinner that evening. I thought I would share the recipe with you.

JUANE

1 chicken, simmered in broth (lighter version) and cut into pieces when cooled.
(You can also use just leg, thigh or breast pieces).
2 cups broth, reserved from cooking
3 hard boiled eggs, halved lengthwise
3 raw eggs, lightly beaten
Salted black olives
4 to 6 cups rice, cooked al dente and allowed to cool
1 tbsp. oregano
1 tsp. cumin
1 tsp. tumeric
3 – 4 garlic cloves
Salt and pepper to taste
Bijao leaves*

You can substitute Bijao leaves with banana leaves or corn husks. It may not taste or look the same, but is likely will be the best you can do. Note: I was able to find banana leaves at the local Asian market.

Beat raw eggs with fork and stir into rice. Sprinkle the oregano, cumin and tumeric over rice and stir well. Next pour in the broth and stir into rice well.

To make packages, start by placing one leaf across the other in a +. Place filling in the center of the leaves–1/2 cup rice, 1 piece chicken, 2 olives and 1/2 hard boiled egg. Twist ends of leaf together at the top and tie with string. Draw the end down through the string loop and then turn it straight up so it will stick out above the water.

In a pot, bring water to a boil. Use enough water that it will cover the body of the Juanes but allow the end to stick up just above it. Lower the heat so it is just barely bubbling and immerse the packet. Cook for 1/2 hour. Remove from heat. Do not open until ready to eat.

Buen provecho!

Triple A Trip! Our most Amazing Amazon Adventure!

As we step onto the tarmac in IQT, we immediately feel the heat and humidity! We have arrived in Iquitos (by way of Lima) where we will board the Aquamarina for our seven night riverboat cruise along the Amazon River.  But before we board our riverboat, we enjoyed an orientation tour of this jungle port city, which is the largest city in the Peruvian rainforest, including a visit to the church of San Francisco with its vast network of catacombs! Iquitos is accessible only by air or water and has a population of 410,000 people and is home to over 4,000 Tuk-Tuks. Crazy!

The activity at the main ship terminal is frantic as freight and passenger ferries prepare for their next destination. We are not sure what to expect as we board the riverboat, but we are pleasantly surprised by the size of the vessel and rooms. The rooms and crew are ready for us and we shove off to begin our adventure. We relax as our first views of the rainforest surrounds us. We are making our way towards the confluence of the Maranon and Ucayali River—this is where the Amazon River is said to begin and is the less travelled area of the Amazon. The Amazon is currently 45 feet high and rising and there is still one month remaining in the rainy season. Many of the villages are flooded and most of the residents have moved to higher ground further into the jungle or have moved up another level in their homes.

We meet Renzo, our Expedition leader and two naturalist guides, Segundo and Johnnie who are all Peruvian natives. By the end of the week we learn that they are very knowledgeable with the ‘jungle’, very proud of their culture and considerate to our every need.

There are too many details to talk about so I am going to highlight them in point form below. Pictures attached say it all!

A typical day was to rise early and after breakfast, cruise through one of the many Amazon tributaries by an open-skiff excursion or enjoy a jungle walk, return to the riverboat for lunch with time for a power nap. We went out again late afternoon, returned for dinner and enjoyed entertainment onboard and/or lectures.

 

 

 

Highlights!

–         Open-skiff excursions through the tributaries in search of wildlife. The guides can spot wildlife by sound alone.  Some of the wildlife we spotted were the red howler monkeys, Monk Saki monkeys & the smallest monkey in the world the Marmoset, three-toed sloths, Caiman crocodiles, pink dolphins, giant lily pads, several varieties of frogs, 163 species of birds including the elusive Limpkin and Hoatzin Primitive Bird, just to name a few!
–         Piranha fishing with only a stick, line and a hook! Deep fried piranha for supper!!!
–         We visited San Juan village and were entertained by the school children. We shared school supplies with them and were invited into the mayor’s home to watch a demonstration on preserving farina—a staple in the jungle.
–         Cooking demonstration of Juane—Peruvanian fast food!
–         We also visited the flooded village of Nueva York where IE Travel has provided funding for a water treatment plant.  We shared a blessing ceremony with the local Shaman.
–         Visited the Las Malvinas School and Urban Garden—a pet-project of IE Travel in conjunction with Conapac.
–         Toured the Belen floating village.
–         Cruised the many tributaries of the 5 million Pacaya-Samira Nature Reserve.
–         Enjoyed jungle walks discovering the poison dart frogs, lizards and medicinal plants.

Tidbits!
–         Iquitos is only accessible by water or air and was established in 1864.
–         The Aquamarina is a barge that was converted to a passenger vessel 15 years ago and has a capacity of 24 passengers.
–         We travelled 600 nautical miles; 182 miles by open skiff.
–         Used 2,000 gallons diesel & 500 gallons for open skiffs.
–         The Aquamarina traveled approx. 9 knots while the skiffs travel about 25mph.
–         90% of the food is purchased in Iquitos while the remaining 10% is purchased fresh from the local people along the way.
–         Rice and fish is eaten at every meal.
–         Snake bites are the highest fatality in the jungle.
–         Families do not name or baptise their babies until the age of 2 or 3. They just call them ‘baby’. Infant mortality is high in the jungle and we were told that they don’t name them to avoid attachment.

What an amazing adventure we had!

PS. Yes, there were a lot of mosquitoes, but we were ready for them.

Tour was organized by MC Destination Travel and International Expeditions!

Packed and Ready To Go! I think?

I can’t believe it, but I am packed!  There lays my packed suitcase and a whole 24 hours before we set to leave for the airport. You wouldn’t think this should be a big thing but I have been known to pack just a couple of hours before leaving for the airport. That usually means that I always bring waaay too much. So this is great!

We are heading to Peru and the rainforest, so packing for this trip was a bit more challenging. Everything that I wanted to bring on this trip was laid out on the spare bedroom’s bed–I had three piles. One pile for the ‘for sures’, a second pile for the ‘maybes’ and the third was the ‘well, if I have room’ pile! The third pile I didn’t even touch. Maybe I should go through it one more time! Just be to sure.

One thing I know that I haven’t forgotten is my ‘one’ pair of Exofficio underwear. I got them!! Let me check. Just to be sure!

Stay posted as we will be blogging from the Amazon.

25 Ways to Wear a Scarf in 4.5 minutes!

It’s Fashion Week and I thought I would pass on my favorite fashion tip video that we found on YouTube. The video is presented by Wendy Nguyen (wendyslookbook) and is a lesson on how to wear a scarf 25 ways.

Going to the Amazon…What to Pack!?

You love to travel, but dread the packing part?! I hear you! With our upcoming trip to the Amazon, the challenge is what and how to pack.  Average temperatures range from the upper 70s to upper 80s all year round during the day to the lower 70s at night. But traveling to the rainforest also presents the problem of the wet and humid climate!

I did some research and came across some excellent tip suggestions that I thought I would share.

1. This suggestion which I thought was brilliant, is to pack a box of zip lock bags to store clothes in. You can organize your clothes ie. a shirt, shorts/pants and pair of panties in one ziplock so you have a ‘dry’ change of clothes every day. The bags also will help store your dirty humid clothes at the end of the day so the rest don’t get wet and smelly.

2. Lightweight cottons are generally more comfortable than synthetics, however new nylon fabrics such as `supplex` are breathable, lightweight and dry quickly are suitable as well. Long sleeved shirts and long pants for protection from the sun and insects is recommended.

3. Rainwear is essential and a lightweight, hooded waterproof jacket is appropriate. A long poncho that provides good coverage is even better as some downpours can be heavy.

4. Proper footwear is also essential. If there has been recent rain, forest trails can be muddy and slippery. Lightweight hiking boots or good walking or running shoes with soles that provide good traction are suitable. Also think about bringing an old pair of runners which you can leave behind.

5.  As we will be visiting Machu Picchu, the daytime temperatures are typically very warm so it is recommended that you wear lightweight pants and layer your tops so during the heat of the day you can remove the outer layer. Sturdy shoes or broken-in hiking boots are recommended. Also don’t forget your sunscreen as you can become sunburned very quickly high in the Andes Mountains.

6. Come prepared for the sun. Bring one or two pairs of sunglasses with UV filter protection, a wide-brimmed hat and a sufficient supply of sun block.

7. But I think the best advice of all is to make a list–and stick to it! Include what you’ll be wearing as part of your packing list. Before you start packing, list everything you would like to take so you don’t over-pack too many “just in case” items in the end. If you’re having trouble fitting everything into your luggage, choose to wear some of the bulkier items like boots or jackets.

Pack larger items first saving heavier items like jeans and sweaters for the bottom of the suitcase. Save small items like socks and undergarments for last. After the major pieces are in, stuff them into every spare crevice; inside the hollows of your shoes and in the corners of your packed suitcase.

8. And don’t forget chargers for your phone, music player, camera and cables in case you would like to upload anything to your computer. I like to tuck the chargers in the outside pockets of the suitcase or carry-on for easy access.

You should also do your own additional research based on the destination that you are traveling to, consult your travel agent or inquire with the tour operator you are booking with.

A great site for smart packing! Check out the Prep & Fly Tool on the CATSA (the Canadian Air Transporation Security Authority) website.

Voluntourism! Giving back to communities you visit!

My daughter Amy (http://amycantsitstill.wordpress.com) recently volunteered at the Special Olympics in Edmonton and had such an awesome experience that I thought it would be a great time to write about ‘Voluntourism’.  

Voluntourism (volunteer vacations) is travel which includes volunteering for a charitable cause. It is experiencing new culture, getting to know the locals and contributing to your destination.

Volunteer vacations can vary widely from low-skill work cleaning up local wildlife areas to providing high-skill medical aid in a foreign country. Participants are diverse but typically share a desire to “do something good” while also experiencing new places and challenges in locales they might not otherwise visit. Here are some areas that you may want to volunteer.

Construction – build a school, a cleaner burning stove or a shelter for animals; help locals construct more sustainable buildings.

Community Development – support community centers and fair trade initiatives, preserve history and encourage sustainable development through local team projects.

Education – teach local children, women’s groups or community courses in English; assist at primary schools and nurseries.

Environment – clean hiking trails, monitor invasive species, plant organic seeds and help local farmers thrive in a global economy.

Health – work in local and rural clinics and help immunize, diagnose and treat patients; combat HIV/AIDS through public health education.

Women’s Development – nurture microfinance and entrepreneur initiatives for women; support fair trade of women’s crafts.

Following are some volunteer vacations that I have read or heard about. It is important to do your research before you decide to travel and volunteer at a destination. Lots of things need to be considered…what is the cost what is included—meals, lodging, etc., is English spoken, visa requirements, etc. It is best to do your homework before you go!

Join the Circus! In Rio de Janeiro Crescer e Viver (Grow Up and Live), is a non-profit circus school program that aims to educate and boost the self-esteem of children from low-income communities.  The kids have a chance to be physically active, express themselves creatively and work with others. Having once traveled to Rio de Janeiro myself a few years ago, I know first-hand that the children that attend this program come from homes in favelas where they may not have great adult role models. From $1,245 for a three-week program including lodging.  www.ikoporan.org/en

Habla Espanol? In Oaxaca, Mexico  As part of Kaya’s equine therapy program in Oaxaca, Mexico, volunteers work three days a week to aid children with a range of disabilities as they learn to care for and ride horses. These skills can relax muscles for physical therapy and increase self-esteem. Volunteers should be comfortable with horses and special-needs kids who may have Down syndrome, ATD or lower-body paralysis.

On your days off, wander inside the 16^th century Santo Domingo church or stop by Chocolate Mayordomo for a cup of local cocoa. From $1,229 for a two-week program which includes lodging (homestay), meals and includes eight hours of Spanish classes weekly. www.kayavolunteer.com

Missionaries of Charity Mother Teresa founded the order of the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata, India which is dedicated to serving the city’s poorest citizens. Volunteers from around the world, no matter their religious affiliation, are welcome to join in the effort. You attend an orientation in the Nirmala Shishu Bhavan home for children and afterward a sister will assign you to a project. Possibilities include educating and feeding young street children, or assist at the Daya Dan home for the mentally and physically disabled children, where you can provide support by playing with the kids. There is no time requirement or fee to volunteer. Participants must arrange their own lodging and meals in Kolkata. www.motherteresa.org

Teach English in the Cook Islands On Rarotonga, in the Cook Islands, help 4^th to 12^th-grade Maori students strengthen their English literacy skills with one-on-one reading sessions. English is an official language in the Cook Islands, but most of the students grew up speaking only Maori. During your stay, you may also have a chance to take part in research at the Whale Center, spend time with elders at a senior center or volunteer on another community project. In your free time, snorkel to see giant clams and moray eels and hike through the forests in the Takitumu Conservation area, home to the rate orange kakerori birds. From $2,395 for a one-week program including meals and lodging. www.globalvolunteers.org.

Source: Afar p.86-87, www.nationalgeographic.com,  www.wikepdia.com

 

 

 

Would You? Could You? Bring one pair of underwear?

I was shopping at an outdoor store for my upcoming trip to the Amazon, and came across this pair of underwear that claims “17 Countries! 6 Weeks! 1 Pair of Underwear!”

Would you? Could You? Be able to bring one pair of underwear?

From ExOfficio Website:  “Join the thousands of people who have discovered the ExOfficio underwear revolution. Just toss them in the laundry or wash them in a sink. Within hours you will have a clean, dry pair of underwear. Give-N-Go underwear are packable, odor resistant, durable and above all comfortable.” 

Website link http://www.exofficio.com/products/womens/underwear/bottoms

They come in different styles, colors and sizes for both men and women and at a cost of $18 to $30. They also sell tops to match.

I loved the way they looked and how they felt. Price point was good as well. I’m all for packing light and as great as it sounds…but really one pair!

OK, I’m in! I’m going to purchase a pair for my upcoming trip and let you know how I managed!

Would you? Could you? Bring one pair of underwear?

You up for the challenge?

PS. Just saying! I think I might pack a couple of pairs. Just for back up!

Great YouTube video with regards to washing the underwear. http://www.exofficio.com/underwear/

1. Wash with soap in a sink or bathtub.
2. Wring it out.
3. Lay it flat on a dry towel.
4. Roll up towel and underwear like a burrito.
5. Stomp on it.
6. Hang to dry in a well-ventilated area.
7. Dries in 2-4 hours, depending on humidity.
8. Wear and repeat.

Ski Snack at the Ski Shack!

This past weekend we entertained a group at Big White Ski Hill in Kelowna. We were a group of 10 and instead of eating the same old boring cafeteria food, I decided to bring along lunch. But what could I bring that everyone would enjoy and that was portable. I decided on Taco Salad in a Bag…it was simple and easy clean up!

I purchased the larger sized bags of taco chips as opposed to the snack size. Then I prepared several toppings and put them in disposable containers. FYI! I called the ski hill ahead of time to make sure the cafeteria had a microwave to warm up the taco mixture.

– chopped green onions
– chopped tomatoes
– grated cheddar cheese
– taco flavored meat mixture
– lettuce

– hot sauce
– salsa
– sour cream

And then all I had to bring along was napkins, plastic forks, plastic spoons and scissors.

It was a big hit with all the group and with the reaction we got from our fellow skiers, I’m sure you will see a lot of Taco in a Bag lunches at the ski hill next weekend.

How easy it that!