Tag: islands

  • What it’s like to travel in East Timor

    What it’s like to travel in East Timor

    While preparing for my solo trip to Timor Leste, I noticed there was barley any online information on tourism and travel in East Timor. Though I was desperately hoping to find some inspiration from other travellers to prepare my journey, I found it exhilarating not to be in the know. I had no expectations and let everything surprise me.

    Since those fruitless google searches, I’ve told myself I’d share everything I could about my travel experiences in East Timor. It’s a destination that deserves some more attention and that is worth a visit. I’ve already written an article on how travelling in East Timor can be quite challenging. I’ve also shared my bizarre culinary experience in Timor Leste, but since it’s not a cookie-cutter destination, you may need some visual information to help you take the plunge.

    East Timor is a great stop over for a seasoned traveler looking for a little edge

    Though I’m far from being an expert on East Timor and the issues the country is facing, I found it to be a particularly interesting travel destination. One that doesn’t just inspire “ooh’s and ahh’s” but rather makes you question global politics and forces you to reflect on human nature. Traveling in East Timor was a reality check reminding me of the basics in travel as well as the basics in life. I know, that sounds like pretty heavy shizzle for a weeklong stint but then again, isn’t that the whole point of travel?

    As heavy hearted or challenging as travel in East Timor can be, there is plenty of light and colour waiting to be discovered.

    Here is travel in East Timor in a few of my favourite snaps

    Cristo rei, a giant statue of Jesus Christ standing on a globe overlooking Dili’s bay. Ascend the hill for some mild exercise and a face to face with JC.

    timor

     

    The view from Cristo Rei is worth the climb. Cape Fatucama (pictured below) offers white sand beach and clear waters.

    dili east timor

     

    Cruising by Dili’s seafront.

    timor6

     

    Making friends with local beachgoers while hanging out at the beaches just outside the centre,

    timor9 timor15

     

    The market, as always, one of the most colourful spots to pick up the local vibe.

    timor3 timor7

     

    At times, the people in East Timor may seem a little grumpy but once you connect with them, the facade drops and magic happens.

    timor14 timor5

     

    A day trip from Dili or overnight stint to Atauro island flashes you to another era. Back to basics. It’s also a superb scuba diving location.
    timor10

     

    On the road to Maubisse we traversed winding roads over steep hills dotted with coffee plantations.

    timor12

     

    The centre of Maubisse has a certain charm to it. Why, I can’t quite put a finger on.

    timor11

     

    Colour and creativity are features I appreciate in my means of transport.

    timor4

     

    A local sunset beach activity: foraging shellfish at low tide.

    timor13

     

    Have you travelled to a destination you knew next to nothing about? Where was it?

    The post “What it’s like to travel in East Timor” first appeared on Travel Cake.

     

  • An Announcement: The Trip of a Lifetime – 100Essential Travel Experiences

    An Announcement: The Trip of a Lifetime – 100Essential Travel Experiences

    It’s been quiet on Travel Cake these past few months. Some of you have been asking me where I’ve been and what I’ve been up to. Well, I can tell you this much: I haven’t been slacking!

    I’ve moved from Ecuador to Belgium where I have been slaving away at a 9 to 5 desk job. Being back in my hometown has been wonderful in terms of reconnecting with friends, family and the city. You may have read the mini luxury guide to Ghent I wrote for travel blog “Hippie in Heels”. You may also have read what I had to say about travel photography in an article for “Voyager for life“.

    waterfall mindo
    saying my goodbyes to Ecuador

     

    But most importantly, I’ve been preparing for the trip of a lifetime. A new adventure, greater than any I’ve ever been on before.

    Destination?

    Motherhood.

    That’s right,I said motherhood.

    The journey began 10 months ago in Iran and continued in Ecuador and Colombia. It took a turn in the US and passed by the Netherlands. It then continued to Belgium where our daughter was born. Our ‘Mini Travel Cake’ is a sweet and funny baby with a traveller’s spirit. How could it be any different, she is only a month old and has already been to 6 countries!

    front-for-print

    Does this mean Travel Cake is turning into a mommy blog?

    No. Plain and simple. It’s just not my cup of tea. However, I’ll probably publish an article related to kids and travel every once in a while. But in general I plan on publishing the same kind of content as I have so far.

    As my pregnancy came to an end, I was stuck indoors with a swollen face hiding from the summer heat. Knowing that my life will never be exactly the same again, I thought about my passed travels. Motherhood is probably the most intense and life changing adventure of them all and I’m THRILLED not to have rushed into it. Thrilled to have taken time to see and experience as much of the world as possible while being relatively carefree. That’s why, as a tribute to carefree travelling, I will be posting a countdown of my 100 most memorable, essential travel experiences.

    Here goes part 1, in no particular order:

     

    100. Driving miles and miles on the rooftops of Nepali busses. 

    the best spot on the bus is the roof!
    A drink, music blasting from your headphones and wind running through your hair… the best seats are in between the luggage on the roof of the bus!

     

    99.  1001 nights in Morocco

    trying to look the part sippin on an overpriced martini in one of Morocco's fancy riads.
    Morocco’s riads are so romantic, so sophisticated and worth the occational splurge. I tried  looking the part sippin’ on an overpriced martini in one of Morocco’s fancy riads. Click on the title to read about my weekend in Fez, Morocco.

     

    98. Floating through life on a houseboat in the backwaters of Kerala

    waking up on the deck of our houseboat, having breakfast while we glide over the waterways
    Waking up on the deck of our houseboat, having breakfast while we glide over the waterways, sigh…

     

    97. Going nuts during Thingyan, Myanmar’s water festival

    party at Black Culture
    Water party in a pop-up day club
    street scene
    This is a common street scene in Yangon during the water festival. Click on the title to read about our experiences during Thingyan.

     

    96. Trekking in the Himalayas

    our first and very ill prepared trek, 4300m altitude. click on the title to read a post related the experience
    Our first and very ill prepared trek at 4300m altitude. Click on the title to read a post related to trekking.

     

    95. Rum cocktails in Castro’s Cuba

    Cuba during Castro's reign was such a bizarre yet enchanting place for a visitor. Things may have changed now, but I'm sure the rum cocktails are still just as delicious!
    Cuba during Castro’s reign was such a bizarre yet unique and enchanting place. At least for visitors. Things may have changed but I’m sure the rum cocktails are still just as delicious!

     

    94. Hiking in Valbona, Albania

    after a breathtaking hike, I reached the cabin of an Albanian family who welcomed me for tea and burek. Instant adoption.
    After a breathtaking hike, I reached the cabin of an Albanian family who welcomed me for tea and burek. Instant adoption. Click on the title to read about my hike in the Albanian Alps.

     

    93. Spending the night in the garden of Eden in the Democratic Republic of Congo

    sunset in the garden of Eden
    Watching the sun set after a long walk in what seemed like the garden of Eden. DRC has fantastic nature, I wish I could say the same for the political situation.

     

    92. Seeing Tarsiers in the wild

    tarsier back in his sleeping tree
    A childhood dream came true when we spotted these cuties in the jungle of Sulawesi, Indonesia. Click on the title to read more about our time in Sulawesi.

     

    91. Fishing, sunbathing and drinking on a catamaran in Los Roques, Venezuela

    Los-Roques
    My first time on a caribbean beach, I was overwhelmed by the high tropical factor

     

    90. Traveling by train in Russia

    RUSSIA
    I got to know my cabin mates by communicating with signs on a 40 hour train ride to the Russian Arctic

     

    89. Hiking the Cocora valley in Colombia

    COCORA
    Another long time travel dream come true! Click on the title to read about our hike in the Cocora Valley.

     

    88. Discovering the architectural jewels of Iran

    IRAN2
    Feeling tiny amongst Iranian architectural masterpieces

     

    87. Camping on a beach in Oman and finding nestling turtles

    click on the title to read about my road trip in Oman.
    Camping on a deserted beach in southern Oman.
    up close and personal with the sea turtles
    We stumbled upon some sea turtles laying their eggs in the sand. Click on the title to read about my road trip to Oman.

     

    86. Learning to scuba dive

    ready for discovery
    Wreck diving in the Philippines, a new world opening up…
    scuba diving in Zanzibar
    My first open water dive in Zanzibar, one of many more to come.

     

    85. Trying to understand the Israeli-Palestinan conflict

    quiet streets of the old city
    The more I talked to local people on both sides of the conflict, the more confused I was on the issues. No matter how much I hung out in the old streets of Jerusalem. Read more about my trip to Israel.
    on my way to Palestine
    Crossing the horrendous border to Palestine. Click on the title to read more about my findings in Palestine.

     

    84. Motorcycling through India

    South to North India by Royal enfield
    An epic drive from South to North India on a 30 year old Royal Enfield. Click on the titel to read about out motorcycle trip through India.

     

    83. Unexpectedly ending up in Paris and attending a crazy party in “la Machine du Moulin Rouge” 

     the evening took an expected turn and I found myself in Paris. Wearing pink fur and a white wig...
    The evening took an unexpected turn and I found myself in Paris. Wearing pink fur and a white wig…

     

    82. Travelling solo 

    traveling solo through Turkey. Click on the title to read why I travel solo even when I'm in a relationship.
    I find traveling solo extremely liberating and enriching. Everybody should try it at least once in their life! Click on the title to read why I travel solo even when I’m in a relationship.

     

    81. Trying to catch a glimpse of Nessie in Loch Ness in the Scottish highlands

    in the Scottish Highlands
    Nessie not found.

     

    So much for part 1 of my favourite travel experiences. Continue reading part 2part 3part4part 5 and part 6!

    Which of these experiences would you want to read more about? 

    The post “An Announcement: The Trip of a Lifetime – 100Essential Travel Experiences” first appeared on Travel Cake.

     

  • Journey to the Togean islands, Indonesia

    Journey to the Togean islands, Indonesia

    I’m staring out the bus window with a intense frown covering my face. The lush Andes landscape rolling by, leaves me almost indifferent. I realise what beauty surrounds me, but I just can’t enjoy it. The combination of high altitude and winy mountain roads leading us up and down the hills has left me with the worst feeling of nausea I have ever experienced. I try to remember the last time I felt this way as a reminder that, just like last time, the nausea will eventually go away…

    I dig deep into my memory and then remember… Last time I felt this horrible was over one year ago on the never ending journey to the Togean Islands in Sulawesi, Indonesia. A 16 hour drive swinging through hairpin turns with a sleepy driver that had partied all night, followed by a sleepless night in a cockroach infested hotel with an active karaoke bar right next door to it. The jaunt continued the next morning with a 4 hour boat ride full of seasick people vomiting in plastic bags only to be finished with one more boat ride to our final destination: Kadidiri paradise. And paradise, it was.

    Togean Islands, Sulawesi, Kadidiri Paradise

    I close my eyes in an attempt to day dream away from the motion sickness in the Ecuadorian bus. My thoughts slowly sink to the unspoilt Togean beaches.

    Togean islands, Sulawesi
    sailing past inhabited islands
    Togean islands, Sulawesi
    arriving at our resort
    Togean islands, Sulawesi
    Welcome to paradise…

     

    There was not much to do on these islands. No internet nor phone reception… A total digital detox and relaxation in it’s most original form. Our days were spent snorkelling in the crystal clear waters right outside our doorstep…

    Togean islands, Sulawesi

     

    Saving the coral from the “evil” crown-of-thorns starfish…

    Togean islands, Sulawesi

     

    Daydreaming in a hammock…

    Togean islands, Sulawesi

     

    Catching up on some reading…

    Togean islands, Sulawesi

     

    Scuba diving to some incredible locations like Una Una, an active underwater Volcano…

    Una Una, scuba Sulawesi, Indonesia
    source

     

    Floating in a jelly fish lake (of course, they don’t sting)…

    foto by

     

    Drinking cool (overpriced) beer with friends while watching the sun set into the ocean…

    Togean islands, Sulawesi

     

    The journey to the Togeans was a tough one but most definitely worth it. If you decide to spend a few days or weeks on the Togean islands, I recommend you bring your favourite snacks and maybe a bottle of booze to create your own cocktails on the beach. Kadidiri Paradise has only one tiny shop, selling some Pringles and a few other nibbles. You’ll get bored of them after a few days, I’m sure. Though the price of your room includes three hearty meals a day, you might get hungry in between meals, that’s when the snacks come in handy.

    Don’t forget to pack a good amount of entertainment: frisbee, beach ball, books, notebooks, chess set… Whatever takes your fancy.

    Have you ever done a digital detox? Would you need one?

     

     

    The post “Journey to the Togean island, Indonesia” first appeared on Travel Cake.

  • Where to go in Bali – 10 Insider Tips

    Where to go in Bali – 10 Insider Tips

    When I was living in Bali, my mailbox was flooded with e-mails from friends and acquaintances planning a trip to the island of gods, asking me which spots to hit. I probably should have written a standard answer to copy paste in every reply but just thinking about these places got me so excited, I didn’t mind carefully hand-picking the places that would suit my correspondents. Today, the same question continues to pop up regularly in my inbox and I’ve noticed I tend to recommend the same places on a loop. Anyone can open up a guide book or browse the internet for ‘things to do in Bali’, but these are the picks I recommend acquaintances, friends and readers.

     

    Scooter trip Tirta Gangga to Amed & Bathing in Tirta Gangga’s holy water 

    Eastern Bali is an excellent area to drive around by scooter. The little roads lead you through picturesque villages and breathtaking landscapes. Somewhere in the midst of it all lies the ‘Tirta Gangga Water Palace’. Though the palace is alluring, it’s the soak in holy water that adds “pazzaz” to the scene. Spend the night in one of the charming guest houses in Tirta Gangga and visit the palace very early in the morning, before the day trippers arrive. There is something transcendental about taking a dip in a pool of sacred water surrounded by nothing else but sounds of nature awakening. From there drive to Amed and take in the natural beauty as well as scenes of rural Bali.

    Tirta Gangga Water Palace
    Tirta Gangga Water Palace
    holy water pool
    holy water pool
    a divine feeling
    a divine feeling
    TIRTA3
    view from my guesthouse
    a ceremony on the way to Amed
    a ceremony on the way to Amed
    AMED
    Amed’s coast

     

    Learn to dive in Tulamben

    If you’re a seasoned diver, you might not love any of the dive spots in Bali. It’s just not the most impressive place to scuba. There are however, some beautiful submarine sites worth exploring.

    Tulamben lends itself superbly as a place to get scuba certified. The fish and coral are both bountiful and colourful, there is excellent visibility and the water is warm. Right by the shore, at only a few meters depth lies a shipwreck in outstanding condition. It’s one of the few places where you have the opportunity to ship wreck dive as a beginner. Most of the dive spots are near the shore, so there’s no need to jump off a boat; you can just shuffle your way to the sea and gradually ease into deeper waters. Ideal for a nervous beginner. Not into diving? You can access some parts of the wreck by snorkelling too!

    USAT Liberty Wreck
    USAT Liberty Wreck (photo credits)

     

    Exploring Jatiluwih rice terraces on foot

    The rice terraces of Jatiluwih reflect the beauty of the Balinese agriculture. I drove to the UNESCO protected fields using the back roads and found myself at a non-official entrance. The only other people there were the occasional farmers working the land. Get got off the scooter/car and walk through the paddies of endless green. The further you walk, the less people and the better the experience.

    and here I was, cooking a batch of basmati rice, never realising what beauty it came from
    cooking a batch of basmati rice, I never realising what beauty it came from
    photo's don't do it justice
    photo’s don’t even begin do it justice

     

    Coffee, cloves and strawberries in Munduk

    Anyone referring to Bali as an over-touristed hellhole, clearly hasn’t been to the Northern part of the island. In Munduk the air is cool and the soil is fertile. Perfect circumstances to cultivate coffee, strawberries and cloves. Munduk may be different from typical Balinese towns, nonetheless it’s not very memorable. It’s where the dutch held mountain retreats during colonial times to escape the Indonesian heat. That is still the main reason to head up there; a breath of fresh air, the hilly scenery, the waterfalls, the coffee plantations and eating strawberry covered everything -even pizza.

    all what is good grows in Munduk
    all what is good grows in Munduk
    Gitgit water fall in Munduk
    Gitgit water fall in Munduk

     

    A Deep soul massage in Ubud

    Ubud is a great hub to explore the verdant centre of the island. Base yourself here and enjoy all it has to offer: culture, art, spas, every type of yoga you can imagine, meditation, healing, delightful guest houses, organic restaurants catering to every allergy/food trend… Be warned, the town is extremely touristed. However it’s not too hard to get away from the over-commercialised areas and activities. As long as you know to expect a tiny but busy 10-street city, you won’t mind the crowed centre of Ubud too much. Let your hair down, join a yoga class, get a massage and a flower bath, eat an organic meal accompanied by a health shake and have a chat with locals. All the while wearing loose flowy pants and flipflop. Groovy?

    spirituality everywhere you turn
    spirituality everywhere you turn
    yoga barn; the yoga supermarket
    yoga barn; the yoga supermarket
    organic, locally produced, healthy food
    organic, locally produced, healthy food

     

    Sunset in Pantai Suluban

    Narrow steps in between cliffs bring you down to this tiny beach which disappears with high tide. The setting between the tall escarpment, the soft sand between your toes and unbelievably talented surfers riding impressive waves in the backdrop; It all comes together magnificently when the sun starts to sink in the sea. Strangely enough I didn’t carry my camera with me when I caught my favourite sunset in Bali! Perhaps that’s what made it even more enjoyable?

    Suluban beach near Uluwatu
    Suluban beach near Uluwatu (source)

     

    Snorkelling with manta rays on Lembogan island

    Nusa Lembongan is a small, tranquil island where you can truly spoil yourself. Be it with stylish yet affordable accommodation or with cliff hung spa’s overlooking the turquoise sea. Still, the best treat Lembongan has to offer is that of underwater splendour. Experienced divers may be able to encounter mola mola (giant moon fish) given the right season. But not all is reserved for divers. In fact all you need is a mask, a snorkel and a pair of fins. Try “drift snorkelling” where currents do the heavy paddling for you and carry you crossed the corals. Marvel at what looks like the worlds biggest aquarium drifting by and with you. The absolute highlight is snorkelling with 2 meter wide manta rays: so exhilarating!

    R&R on Nusa Lembongan
    R&R on Nusa Lembongan
    not even the honeymoon suite
    not even the honeymoon suite
    snorkelling with manta's. photo by Shawn Heinrichs
    snorkelling with mantas. photo by Shawn Heinrichs

     

    Beach Bumming on the Gili islands

    Although technically not Bali but Lombok, the Gili islands are often visited as part of a trip to Bali. And they should. It’s THE place to be for the classic exotic beach vacation. No motorised vehicles, rustic shacks serving food and drinks, parties, beaches and all that goes with it. There are three Gili islands with very different personalities to chose from. Check out my Gili post to find out which one is right for you.

    sandy beach in the morning
    sandy Gili beach

     

    Sunrise atop or at the foot of Mount Batur

    Scaling Mt Batur to see the sun come up is one of the top attractions in Bali. Fit hikers can reach the summit (1717m) in a short two hour climb and can enjoy the sunrise from the top of an active volcano. However, I found that hanging around the slopes of Mt. Batur is just as pleasant. You can watch the sunrise from the foot of the volcano by the crater lake, have breakfast on its hillsides and bathe in the surrounding hot springs. Either way the Kintamani region promises a spectacular scenery.

    sunrise over Batur's craterlake, no climbing what so ever
    watching sunrise over Batur’s craterlake with friends, leaving the hiking boots at home
    volcanic hot springs near Mt.Batur
    volcanic hot springs near Mt.Batur

     

    For the insane: ascending Mount Agung

    As I mentioned above, the most popular volcano sunrise trek is on Mt. Batur. Let me just say this, from the top of Mt. Agung, Batur looks like a joke. Mt. Agung (3031 m) is the holiest place in Bali and although the Balinese tolerate foreigners ascending it, they themselves will not do so. It’s just that sacred. The climb starts around midnight and takes about 7 hours. From the top you have views over the entire island and you can even spot Lombok’s coastline and volcanoes. It’s a strenuous climb, to say the least and an even more taxing, somewhat dangerous descent. Pray for clear skies. If you’re looking for a physical challenge, this is it. I’ll admit it, I cried of desperation during this hike but I don’t regret doing it. Would I do it again? Nope!

    For more “insane” activities in Bali, read my article “5 quirky things to do in Bali“.

    thinking I'm almost at the top, I notice the pointy shadow telling me there's still a long way to go
    thinking I’m almost at the top, I notice the pointy shadow telling me there’s still a long way to go
    on top of Bali
    on top of Bali

     

    Bali is packed with remarkable places, secret beaches, stunning temples, lush green valleys… So wherever you decide to go, there is no wrong answer. Except Kuta. Please, stay away from Kuta. It’s crowded, polluted, full of drunk teenagers, pimps and dealers. Mc Donalds, O’Neil and other chain companies rule the town. It’s the only part of Bali I really disliked.

    One last tip: as you know by now, Bali is full of tourists, at times too full. I recommend you to visit the more popular sites as early in the morning as you possibly can. This is the only way to avoid the crowds and not return home pissed that you’ve seen too many -insert Western nationality. True, waking up at the crack of dawn is no pick-nick but if it means having ancient sites to yourself and the best lighting for photos, it’s 100% worth it! Don’t worry, there is always a quaint café nearby where you can take a nap later during the day.

    unless this is your idea of a dream beach, stay away from Kuta
    unless this is your idea of a dream beach, stay away from Kuta

     

    Which part of Bali have you enjoyed visiting or would you like to visit?

    The post “Where to go in Bali – 10 insider tips” first appeared on Travel Cake.

     

  • 12 Favourite Destinations

    12 Favourite Destinations

    It’s been exactly 10 years today since my first independent trip. By “independent” I mean a trip not organised or sponsored by parents, school or other organisations… I started traveling on my own dime in my own time.

    I was 19 when a friend and I booked a ticket to Zimbabwe, a country we knew almost nothing about. Feeling all kinds of cool, we embarked on an adventure that would shape the people we’d become. We spent one month in Zimbabwe having the trip of a lifetime, spontaneous and crazy. Upon my return home I had coffee with a friend curious about the journey. I told her in detail how incredibly exciting it had been. Followed by: “I want to travel all the time. I want be a globetrotter!”

    “When can you start calling yourself a globetrotter?” she asked. I had no idea, but set the bar at ‘having been to one third of the world or 64 countries’.

    In the ten years that followed I never really kept this goal in mind and my definition of a globetrotter has significantly changed since then. I wouldn’t define it through an amount of visited countries, but that’s another discussion. Anyway, before I knew it, I had become a globetrotter according to my -outdated- definition.

    With all these destinations on my travel resumé, I’m often asked which one is my favourite. It’s a hard question! Not per se because I love all the places equally but because so many have deeply touched me, one way or another.

    While I was stuck on an 8-hour bus ride last week, I started pondering the question more seriously. Is it really impossible to pick a favourite? Yes, it is. However, I have managed to narrow down the list to a top 12. I was aiming for 10 but…

     

    So in no Particular order

    1. Oman

    I loved everything about Oman. Taking a road trip through the country introduced me to the genuinely warm and friendly people, the tasty food, interesting wildlife, the stunning landscapes featuring all my favourite colours… With the risk of sounding cliché, Oman truly is a hidden gem.

    wadi perfect for a dip
    wadi perfect for a dip

     

    2. Shops, drinks and midnight snacks in Shoreditch, London

    I’ve starred London as a favourite a long time ago but discovering the neighbourhood of Shoreditch has taken London to the next level for me. It’s the London that pushes you out of your comfort zone, inspires and yet feels comfortable and homely.

    London
    some amazing food in the area

     

    3. Motorbiking Ubud and surroundings, Bali

    This probably doesn’t come as a shocker seeing I chose to live here for a year. The spiritual atmosphere, the lush green surroundings, the smell of incense filling the air and the sweet Balinese people. This island is just… Magic

    rice fields around Ubud
    rice fields around Ubud

     

    4. Backpacking through Zimbabwe

    As I mentioned above it was my first trip. It wasn’t so much the attractions that made this one of my favourite destinations, it was more a general feeling of well-being. Drinking a beer under the African sun with some of the world’s most impressive waterfalls in the background while making lasting friendships with locals and expats.

    ZIMBABWE
    sunset over the Zambezi

     

    5. Cruising through Lake Connemara and surroundings, Ireland

    The Irish country in general, is incredibly beautiful. I can see why it has been an inspiration for quite some songs, literature and poetry. In fact, you could possibly say that the Irish countryside is poetry.

    IRELAND
    somewhere along the way

     

    6. Living the island life in Zanzibar

    I’ve had to wait 15 years to go to Zanzibar and when I finally did, it was even more jaw-dropping than expected. The water is of the bluest blue, the earth is red, spices are abundant and there is always a freshly caught fish grilling on some coals. You can feel the mystic that comes with the historic crossroads of cultures.

    ZANZIBAR
    Zanzibari fishing village

     

    7. Morocco

    Every time I go to Morocco I’m amazed at how much I love the country. Why amazed? Because it can be quite tantalising at times. The touts in the touristy cities like Marrakech, constant bargaining, scams… Yet I can’t help but adore this country and I gladly accept its flaws.

    MAROKKO,  Aït Benhaddou
    Morocco’s most iconic town Aït Benhaddou

     

    8. Venturing out into Timor-Leste

    It was such an out of the blue destination on which I couldn’t find much information online. I had no expectations whatsoever, perhaps that is why I was so pleasantly surprised. Beside the gorgeous scenery it was the big unknown and the sense of adventure that made this place special to me. Timor-Leste offers a challenge to the seasoned traveller.

    TIMOR, coastline in Dili
    coastline in Dili

     

    9. Hiking Dominica

    Rugged and unknown- I’m starting to see a pattern here- Dominica has the ideal reggae/Caribbean island vibe. My entire stay there I felt like an old-school explorer, minus the compass. It’s the only island in the caribbean that has no white sand beaches which is why it’s often overlooked by package and cruise tourists leaving it unspoilt.

    DOMINICA
    every now and again a sign reminds you that you’re not the first person to explore the island

     

    10. The old city of Jerusalem, Israel

    Israel is a generally a great tourist destination but the old city of Jerusalem… That place vibrates. You feel and see emotion wherever you look. You can breathe history, touch spirituality, smell culture, taste tradition. The old town of Jerusalem is a truly unique place.

    quiet streets of the old city
    quiet streets of the old city

     

    11. Dancing to dirty reggeaton beats in Venezuela

    Less than an hour after exiting the airport of Caracas, I told the friend I was visiting: “This is it. I belong in this country”. We laughed, but I wasn’t joking. Venezuela has it all: the beaches, the rain forests, the deserts, the mountains, the party cities. It has attitude, it has style. The only thing lacking is a decent government to help the country grow to its full potential.

    VENEZUELA
    Los Roques, my first encounter with the caribbean

     

    12. Bhaktapur, Nepal

    Besides the fact that practically the entire city is made of wood and full of temples, it was the general “zen-atmosphere” I might have enjoyed most in Bhaktapur. I’d wake up every morning to the sound of prayers and gentle bells followed by the smell of freshly brewed tea. Enchanting! Also, it’s where you can find the best curd in the world!

    BAKTAPUR
    Bhaktapur in the morning light

     

    I may be a globetrotter in the eyes of my 19 year-old self but in the eyes of the woman I am today, I still have a long way to go.

    I just couldn’t resist to list some honourable mentions: Copenhagen, Cuba, the forests of Washington State, Singapore, Amsterdam, The Sinai (Egypt), Lake Bunyonyi (Uganda) and New York City.

    What are your 5 favourite destinations?  

     

    The post “12 Favourite Destinations” first appeared on Travel Cake.

  • What’s in Macau?

    What’s in Macau?

    After a quick calculation, I came to the realisation that a day-trip to Macau from Hong Kong would cost me a rough €85 just in transportation costs for two. Woops, this was supposed to be a budget trip! As every so often, I was torn between saving money or discovering a new corner of our planet. During the decision making process -which really only lasted a minute- I found myself wandering: “What’s in Macau anyway? Is it worth blowing my budget over this rarely mentioned destination?”

    You tell me…

     

    This is what I found in Macau:

     

    Futuristic scenes

    On the way from Macau’s harbour to town, we we’re greeted by futuristic views of the city. My face and hand palms were pressed against the bus window; eyes wide open, lips slightly apart. I could have sworn I had tele-transported to a “city in the clouds” in a distant future. Sure, the smog/mist might have had their effect. Maybe I should lay off the sci-fi films for a while…

    Macau skyline
    Macau in the clouds

     

    Fabulous food

    Macanese cuisine is a delicate fusion between Chinese, Portuguese and African flavours. Slow cooked food brought to taste with spices like chili, tumeric, cinnamon, coconut milk… Dishes like Galinha à Africana (African spicy chicken), bacalhau, minchi and pasteis de nata are staples that can easily be found all over Macau. Scrumptious comfort food demonstrating a union between distinct corners of the world, now that’s my cup of tea!

    Portuguese Bacalhau, Macau
    Portuguese Bacalhau
    Chinese sweet pork jerky, Macau street food
    Chinese sweet pork jerky
    pasteis de nata- Macau
    pasteis de nata- I preferred the Portuguese version

     

    Unseen parallels with the old colony, Portugal

    Aside from the food, I was stunned by the ubiquitous Portuguese influences. Cute alleys, Portuguese street signs, wide boulevards, fortresses, churches and the familiar European sound of cars driving over cobbled roads… I felt as though I was in Europe; Portugal with a lot of Chinese tourist.

    colonial Macau
    colourful alleyways
    colonial Macau
    a mix of both worlds
    colonial, Macau
    Portuguese tile murals
     boulevard Macau
    sunny wide boulevards

     

    Classic Asian elements

    Even though you could really believe you’re in Europe, there are enough elements that remind you that, you are indeed still in Asia. Smells, food, photo crazed tourists, Buddhist temples with burning incense, Chinese signs…

    Macau Street food
    special animal parts
     asian fanclub, Macau
    the classic asian fan club
     tricycle, Macau
    tricycle taxi

     

    Lots and lots of gambling

    Gambling in Macau has been legal for over a century, alluring big spenders and investors hoping to turn a few dimes into a king’s ransom. Being Asia’s gambling mecca, the casinos are majestic and plentiful. As you walk down the streets, you can almost hear money flying out the windows. Even if you’re not into games of chance, you might enjoy walking around and getting a taste of the atmosphere.

    under the sea casino, Macau
    “under the sea”- themed extravaganza at the casino
    casinos, Macau
    mirrored casino facade
    casino, Macau
    lively night scene
    casinos, macau
    Grand Lisboa

     

    A dark sea of tourists

    With features like “bling bling” casinos, European flair and delicious food, it’s only natural the city attracts enormous amounts of tourists every day. Most of them come from Mainland China and Hong Kong. On top of that, Macau is the world’s most densely populated place on earth (20 497 people per km²). As you can imagine, it can get quite claustrophobic at times but there is a silver lining: acting shamelessly like a cliché tourist is ok! Take elaborate food pictures, sample local fare for free, strike a ridiculous photo pose wherever, whenever. Nobody cares, everybody’s doing it. Get off the main streets and you’ll find peace and quiet.

    tourists, Macau
    where’s Waldo?

     

    Macau is the kind of place you wouldn’t choose as your main travel destination, nonetheless it is certainly worth a visit, regardless of the price tag. Curiosity is what drove me to Macau and I wasn’t disappointed. So should you take a side trip from Hong Kong or Mainland China to visit Macau? For me, that’s a yes. What about you,

    Would you blow your budget to check out Macau?

     

    The post “What’s in Macau” first appeared on Travel Cake

  • 5 Quirky Things to do in Bali

    5 Quirky Things to do in Bali

    There is a great misconception that Bali is just another tourist mecca full of beautiful clichés. Granted, there is a great deal of mass tourism, but there is so much more to it than that. Finding authenticity is a walk in the park and going off the beaten track is just as easy. Quirks are plentiful and one needn’t look far to find some. Besides the cultural oddities, there are tonnes of fun off-beat activities you can participate in. These are my favourite quirky things to do in Bali.  

    1. Mud wrestling under a full moon at the Green school

    The greenest school on earth lies somewhere between rice fields and Balinese villages. Built entirely out of bamboo, the Green School boasts an endangered bird rehabilitation program, an organic vegetable garden grown by its students, an enormous crystal radiating positive energy on the playground, a natural swimming pool and… a mud pit. Students, teachers and visitors regularly engage in playful mud wrestling tournaments. Several times a year, a “Mepantigan full moon performance” is held on the school grounds. Mepantigan is a traditional act combining Balinese martial art, fire dance, drama and music. Those who don’t mind getting their clothes dirty, can join the mud fun after the performance.

    playing in the mud. photo by Ana Brananova
    playing in the mud. Mind the school’s horse in the background. Photo by Ana Baranova

    Even if you’re not lucky enough to be in town during the mud fight, I recommend visiting the Green School anyway. A sustainable international school running on solar energy with “a vision of a natural, holistic, student-centered learning environment that empowers and inspires its students to be creative, innovative, green leaders.” A school so incredibly cool, you’d want to turn into a kid just to attend. Visit their website to find out more or to book a tour.

    we could all learn something at the green school
    we could all learn something at the green school

     

    2. Party hard… and sober on a Sunday morning

    Every Sunday, Ubud’s most popular yoga spot organises a smashing Sunday Dance. Starting at 11AM, expats, locals and visitors come together to party like there is no tomorrow. People let go and let lose, moving their bodies to the music in which ever way they feel like, expressing themselves through movement. There is screaming, crying, laughter, sweaty hugs, glitter… Anything goes. There is only one rule: no talking. As the dance progresses, the music gets more intense and the dancers feed on each other’s energies. Unbelievably powerful! I’ve added this to the list of quirky things because, if you only ever danced in amongst a crowd at a club or at a party and preferably in slightly intoxicated condition, your first minutes there can feel quite awkward and bizarre. As soon as you realise nobody is there to observe or judge, you loose your inhibitions naturally. Put on a smile, dance and spend the rest of your day on cloud nine.

    good vibes on sunday morning
    good vibes on Sunday morning

     

    3. Laugh your head off during a laughing yoga session

    Laughter strengthens your immune system, boosts your energy, diminishes pain and protects you from the damaging effects of stress. This is the mantra that inspires the biweekly laughing yoga gatherings in Ambar Ashram. Imagine a grass field covered with 100 Balinese on a yoga mat, laughing themselves silly. Doesn’t that sound like the place to be?! Even though it’s a local activity and the spoken language is Indonesian, foreigners are more than welcome… Laughter knows no language. There’s more to the class than laughter, but I don’t want to reveal any spoilers. Classes are free and last an hour. Bring a yoga mat if you have one and leave with a relaxed mind and body!

    After laughing yoga with Peter
    After laughing yoga with Peter
    laughing it out
    laughing it out

     

    4. Sip on fancy ‘cat poop coffee’

    I haven’t gone mad, I consciously  wrote “cat poop coffee”. That’s right, Kopi Luwak, the most expensive coffee in the world, is actually “civet cat poop coffee”. Some explanation… As night falls, wild civets roam around the “Luwak “coffee plantations to feed on the plants’ best coffee beans. The civets having partially digested the beans, excrement them around the plantation. The farmers then search for and pick up the stools. Once dry, the remaining beans are picked out by hand, then peeled and roasted. The result: world’s most exclusive coffee. “Is it any good?”, you want know… Well I’ve heard mixed reviews: some find it exquisite, others find it too bland. It’s not a coffee that will have you bouncing off the walls, but I enjoyed its mildness. It definitely doesn’t taste as gross as the title could have you thinking, but I’m not sure it’s worth the €6/100gr to me.

    coffee eating civet, sadly encaged as a show piece for tourists
    coffee eating civet, sadly encaged as a show piece for tourists
    dried civet feces
    dried civet feces
    kopi luwak- cat poop coffee
    kopi luwak- cat poop coffee

     

    5. For women only: enjoy a steam sauna… for your most intimate organ

    This one actually originates from a traditional Javanese beauty and bridal ritual. I’ll keep the story short. Just before marriage or after giving birth, Javanese women undergo a cleansing ritual. Only wearing a sarong, the women are seated on a chair with a hole. In that hole lies a clay plot with heated charcoal and herbs creating rising fog which “cleans” the women’s private parts. This procedure called “ratus”, is also practiced in Bali and is available in local spa’s. You don’t need to be a bride to enjoy the Javanese beauty secret. Now every adventurous woman can give it a go. It takes about 45minutes and in some modern spa’s you will get a shoulder massage while you get “steamed”. My ratus experience was a very pleasant one. After feelings of awkwardness sitting half-naked on a smoking chair, came relaxation and bliss. I felt rejuvenated and fresh. To be repeated! I underwent the treatment at Midas Spa in Ubud.

    get the picture?
    get the picture?

      These are just a few of the unusual things to do in Bali. Plenty more to discover throughout the island and the entire country!

    Which one of these quirks would you attempt?   

    The post “5 Quirky Things to do in Bali first appeared” on Travel Cake.

     

  • What’s in Sulawesi?

    What’s in Sulawesi?

    Maybe I should start by answering  the question “where is Sulawesi”. Among the 6000 inhabited islands of Indonesia, lies Sulawesi, one of the country’s largest. Announcing we were off to explore Sulawesi, my friends and I all got the same puzzled reaction: “Oh, how lovely… What’s in Sulawesi?” To be honest, I wasn’t quite sure when we left. I had read a couple of thing here and there, but it was a big question mark to me as well.

    So here’s is what I found on the island of Sulawesi

     

    1. Jaw dropping landscapes

    Mist rolling over hills and valleys, tiny motorways crossing vast plains of rice fields, rugged cliffs, jungles, volcanoes, beaches… Diverse landscapes lending themselves perfectly for hikes and motorbike rides.

    Sulawesi
    around the hills
    black sand beach, Sulawesi
    black sand beach
    on a motorbike, Sulawesi
    driving a motorbike

     

    2. Tana Toraja- remarkable culture and architecture

    Land of the Torajan people. Emerge yourself in the fascinating culture of the Toraja in the southern half of the island. Torajans welcome guests to discover their unique culture and beliefs. I know the word “unique” is often used too loosely to describe pretty much anything, but if there was ever a correct description for this culture, unique would be the one! I found their “death-centric way of life” particularly interesting.

    traditional Torajan jewels, Sulawesi
    traditional Torajan jewellery
    Torajan funeral, Sulawesi
    at a Torajan funeral
    tongkonans, torajan house, Sulawesi
    architecture

     

    3. Gorgeous deserted islands

    The Togean islands for example… If you keep in mind the effort to get there- we drove and sailed for 2 days, non-stops- it will not come as a shock that there is no phone or internet connection on the tiny islands. Great as a digital detox or just a relaxing few days of beach, snorkel, eat, sleep, repeat.

    mangrove beach Bunaken, Sulawesi
    mangrove beach in Bunaken
    beach crabs, Sulawesi
    beach crabs everywhere
    Sulawesi
    romance returns when technology disappears…

     

    4. A dark side

    As mentioned above, death is everywhere around you in Southern Sulawesi. Not in creepy, dangerous way, but as a natural, celebrated part of life. Every now and then you stumble upon a collection of century old bones and coffins. Bodies are buried in cliffs and caves, skeletons are given cigarettes and money. Sometimes I imagined myself on the set of a gothic music video.

    century old skulls, Sulawesi
    surprised by these century old skulls
    cigarettes for the dead , Sulawesi
    cigarettes for the dead

     

    5. Top notch underwater scenery

    Prepare to redefine your perception of colour… Some of the brightest, most colourful coral and fish can be found in Sulawesi. Despite the years of dynamite fishing in the area, there is still a considerable amount of intact coral. The fishes’ patterns, textures and colour schemes inspire a mental creation of a new wardrobe. Such a pity I’m not a designer!

    For the experienced who have had their share of coral gazing and would like to see a different kind of marine habitat, the Lembeh straight offers some world class muck diving opportunities. Snorkel in Bunaken, muck dive in Lembeh and dive around the Togean islands.

    snorkelling togean, Sulawesi
    unfortunately I don’t own a waterproof camera (yet?), so this is the best I can show you. Togean islands

     

    6. Tarsiers

    If you ask me, they are the cutest primates on this planet. Sulawesi houses tarsiers in two of their national parks. We tracked them down with a guide at the crack of dawn in Tangkoko National Park. My nine year old self gave me a big “high five” for seeing them in real life… Childhood dreams come true!

    tarsier, Sulawesi
    tarsier back in his sleeping tree after a night of hunting
    tarsier family, Sulawesi
    aren’t they cute?

     

    7. A new cuisine to try out

    The cuisine in Sulawesi has its own personality. Sure, you can find your typical “mie goreng” or  “nasi campur”, but an abundance of traditional dishes are waiting to be sampled. Vegetarians/vegans beware: Sulawesi dishes are heavy in meats or fish, so you’ll have a hard time finding something other than rice to eat- the rice is exquisite though. I tried “pa’piong”, a Torajan speciality: meat (or fish) with vegetables and traditional black spice, slow cooked in a bamboo tube over an open fire. Incredibly strong and distinct flavours!

    exciting new spices to try...
    exciting new spices to try…
    pa'piong with black rice
    doesn’t look very appetising but worth a try: pa’piong with black rice

     

    8. Jellyfish lake

    On the Togean islands you will find a lake full of stingless colourful jellyfish. You can swim with them, observe them while snorkelling. There are supposedly only three lakes in the world where this is possible! The jellyfish have no natural predators in those waters therefore they’ve lost their traditional defence mechanism, which makes them harmless to you, swimmer. It’s a magnificent experience. I quote my dear husband: “it’s like swimming in a lake full of boobs”.

    foto by
    foto by Nao Nishimiya

     

    9. A Buffalo and Pig market

    Admittedly, this is a rather strange attraction, but definitely worth a visit. I was so impressed I could hardly think. The noises, the smells, the fact that everyone else seemed so much at ease while I was fearing for my life (not really)… I find it enriching to challenge my views of what is “acceptable behaviour”, in this case behaviour towards cattle. Again, maybe not a good idea for vegetarians/vegans…

    buffalo market, Sulawesi
    walking amongst the buffalos
    farmer pigs, Sulawesi
    farmer selling his pigs

     

    10. Beautiful national parks, home to endangered species: crested black macaque

    There are many national parks with impressive fauna and flora. One of the parks is home to the critically endangered crested black macaque. I must say, I had no idea how bad the situation was. These apes are literally on the verge of extinction, even more so than tigers, orang utans or rhinos!

    curly tree roots, Sulawesi
    curly roots
    macaque, Sulawesi
    shameless macaque photograph
    2000 year old tree, Sulawesi
    climbing a 2000 year old tree

     

    11. Fantastic coffee

    The plantations lie in the Torajan highlands and produce a coffee bean that is good enough to be internationally distributed as ‘gourmet coffee’. The premium beans can hardly be found in the rest of the country, they are reserved for export, but we found a restaurant that was serving premium Torajan coffee (Cafe Aras in Rantepao). WOW! If you can’t make it to Sulawesi, why not try a cup of their coffee in your country?

    local coffee
    local coffee

     

    Things to keep in mind

    Sulawesi is not a cheap destination. Transportation is either extremely uncomfortable or pricey. Prices for meals are slightly higher than in Java or in Bali. If you are planning on diving, which is recommended, don’t forget to include that in your budget as well. Most dives are priced at 30US$. Accommodation on the smaller islands start at 20US$ per person, not per room (!) and include three meals.

    To travel in Sulawesi means to wait around a lot. Slow travel is key if you want to see the island. The attractions are scattered around, which creates “dead days” between two attractions; days of travel or waiting for a connection. Take your time or travel by plane. There are 6 airports on the islands: Makassar (South) and Manado (North) being the biggest ones.

    Had I known what I know now, I would have brought to the islands: a frisbee or a ball, a bottle of quality rum to make cocktails which are not served in Togean and extremely expensive in Bunaken. I would have brought more reading material– one novel wasn’t enough and some good snacks from the mainland– I was often hungry before dinner was served and got tired of eating the cookies from the only shop on the island.

     

    Have you heard of Sulawesi as a tourist destination? Would you consider going?

    The post “What’s in Sulawesi” first appeared on Travel Cake.