6 fantastic travel podcasts to whisk you away

Travel might be off the cards for the moment, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t invest some time in learning about new places, dreaming about future trips or even planning those bucket list adventures. With that in mind, Lonely Planet has rounded up some of the most informative and inspiring podcasts on all things travel that will be sure to help.

Listening to a podcast can be great entertaining or educational distraction while at home. Here are some of the best travel-themed ones we’ve found.

The Trip That Changed Me

Featuring conversations and interviews with people whose lives were quite literally changed by travel, The Trip That Changed Me covers everything from the beginnings of long-term romances to the foundation of businesses, and includes authors, entrepreneurs, creatives and activists.

The Travel Diaries

This weekly interview series sees entertainment and travel journalist Holly Rubenstein chatting to a special guest about their adventures around the world and the travel experiences and destinations that shaped their lives. Previous guests have included Poppy Delevingne, Jo Malone, Dan Snow, Dev Patel and Sir Richard Branson.

The perfect place to start is the most recent episode featuring an interview with Lonely Planet founder Tony Wheeler about how the company got started back in the 1970s.

Zero to Travel

While traveling and living nomadically for over a decade, Zero to Travel’s Jason Moore was continually amazed and inspired by people from all walks of life who found a way to see the world despite personal obstacles. He felt that sharing their stories and advice would be a good way to help others achieve their travel dreams, so in 2013 his podcast was born.

Episodes range from “How to Surround Yourself With What You Love” to “How to Overcome Travel Anxiety and Fear of Flying”.

JUMP with Traveling Jackie

Host Traveling Jackie explores lifestyle, adventure and travel in a way that aims to inspire listeners to get out and explore the world.

The episode Don’t forget to pack these five things is broken up into five categories (so 25 items in total) and has suggestions for adventure travellers (batting gloves for horseback riding, kayaking and paddle boarding, for instance), digital nomads (privacy screen and a portable charger), health-conscious people on the move (nutritional supplements) and the every-day traveller (reusable water bottles and earplugs).

As a frequent traveller, Jackie draws on her own experiences and knowledge to inform in a conversational way. Other episode themes include “How to Become Fluent in Any Language with Polyglot Benny Lewis”, “Walking the Camino de Santiago” and “How to Plan a Trip to Patagonia”.

Flight of Fancy

Hosted by Ben Groundwater, this podcast prides itself on being fun, funny and wise, and looks at and discusses travel under a diverse range of topics. Episodes include “Things That Surprise First-Time Visitors to Antarctica”, “How to Travel Without Ruining the Planet”, “Australia’s Amazing, Undisturbed, Outback” and “The Best Destinations for Solo Travellers”.

The Thought Card: A Travel Finance Podcast

A podcast with the budget traveller in mind, The Thought Card offers helpful advice on how to have a great time while spending less money in diverse destinations all over the world.

Each episode, Danielle Desir tackles a different topic, whether it’s giving “Practical Tips for Saving Money in Iceland” or “Exploring the Racial Wealth Gap”. Guests provide further insight on specialist subjects and destinations.

This article was first published on www.lonelyplanet.com.

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6 conservation projects in Africa that protect wildlife

A male lion resting in the tall grass. Photo credit: Susan McConnell

1. The Lionscape Coalition

A collaboration between the Lion Recovery Fund and five luxury eco-tourism operators, the Lionscape Coalition raises money to help protect and preserve areas across Africa where lions (a vulnerable species) are under threat due to human impact. 

2. Desert Elephant Conservation

The project, run by non-profit organisation Frontier, aims to minimise conflict and encourage co-existence between animals and humans. With the desert elephant’s population on the rise, there has been fierce competition for water sources in the area. To overcome this issue, volunteers are asked to help identify and secure new water bodies for the elephants, and track their movements across the desert to learn about their behaviour.

The Waterburg Wild Dogs are able to wander freely to encourage co-existence between their species and humans

3. Waterberg Wild Dogs

A conservation project run by the Endangered Wildlife Trust, Waterberg Wild Dogs aims to protect the remaining free-roaming African wild dogs outside protected areas by negotiating their safe passage with local landowners – a privilege no other pack in South Africa enjoys.

4. The Balule Conservation Project

This volunteer-funded project gives participants the chance to assist with wildlife research, including collecting data on wildlife and vegetation while focusing primarily on elephants and predators, at the Balule Game Reserve within the Greater Kruger National Park.

Lion cubs playing amongst themselves. Photo credit: Jeremy Goss

5. Predator Conservation Fund

This project works to protect lions as well as other persecuted species such as hyenas, cheetahs, leopards, wild dogs and jackals on the Maasai lands of Kenya. These predators are under constant threat from livestock owners, who see them as a danger, and are often killed in retaliation for livestock losses. With this fund, ranchers receive compensation for the livestock they’ve lost. As a result, retaliatory lion killing has drastically dropped. 

6. Seabird Rehabilitation

From oil spills to abandoned and injured chicks, the seabirds of South Africa are in constant need of protection and rescue. This project aims to rehabilitate and treat seabirds as well as conduct research to help benefit South African marine life. Volunteers will be tasked with the handling and feeding of the birds.
Singapore Airlines flies directly to Johannesburg 10 times weekly. To book a flight, visit singaporeairlines.com
SEE ALSO: From tigers to gorillas: Where to see animals in the wild
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5 local businesses in Guangzhou to make a pit stop at

Inside 1200 Bookshop. Photo credit: Zhong Zhenbin ImagineChina

1. 1200 Bookshop

Launched by avid biker Liu Erxi, Guangzhou’s only 24-hour bookstore also doubles as a hostel. It’s located in the Tianhe district, and is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exploration. In addition to an impressive selection of Chinese-language books, there are drinks and desserts in the café, and even basic lodgings in private rooms for those looking for a unique experience – at night, the sofa beds in the reading room are folded out and are available upon reservation.
27 Tiyu East Road, Tianhe District

Copperware at Bai Yi Xuan Antique Shop. Photo credit: Zhong Zhenbin ImagineChina

2. Bai Yi Xuan Antique Shop

Xiguan copperware pots or teapots are quite possibly the best souvenirs to bring back from Guangzhou. They are also often seen as representative of the old city of Canton and have been officially recognised as a symbol of local cultural heritage. This small, unassuming shop has been run and curated by four generations of craftsmen, each selling skilfully handcrafted wares known for their quality and stunning designs. It offers an outstanding selection of teapots, as well as other copperware kitchen items, such as bowls, cooking pots, water jugs and mugs. You can even find a large copper statue of former Chinese leader Mao Zedong near the store’s entrance.
218 Enning Rd, Liwan District

“Guangzhou is such a vibrant and lively city, with many hidden gems and trendy areas. People should definitely visit with a sense of adventure and curiosity” — Kara Schroeder, founder and CEO of lifestyle website Bunga Monkey

Kui Yuan Gallery is one of the top places to view art in the city. Photo credit: Zhong Zhenbin ImagineChina

3. Kui Yuan Gallery

This art-gallery-slash-café is located in a 1920s building within Guangzhou’s historic Dongshankou. You can view ever-changing exhibitions from both foreign and local names – such as popular young Guangzhou artist Liu Bin – sip on absinthe or enjoy a cup of joe on one of the balconies or at a ground-level patio area. With the closure of the city’s iconic art district Redtory in late 2019, Kui Yuan Gallery is now among the top places to view art in the city. In early February, visitors can check out “The Echo of Clay”, an exhibition of ceramic works by six artists who have all utilised their differing educational backgrounds to explore an impressive array of methods.
9 Xuguyuan Rd, Yuexiu District

Gorgeous mood lighting at the city’s first gin-focused bar. Photo credit: Zhong Zhenbin ImagineChina

4. Evening Standard

Yangji neighbourhood is now home to what is arguably the city’s first gin-focused bar. In addition to an excellent gin selection, there is also a range of outstanding craft cocktails – strongly recommended is the Manor House, which is made with olive-oil-infused gin, Mediterranean cordial, Mancino Secco vermouth, Capri dry tonic and olive brine. The establishment has a chic, elegantly designed interior, with three seating areas – one being upstairs – and a well-curated playlist.

Assortment of dim sum favourites. Photo credit: Zhong Zhenbin ImagineChina

5. Qiuda 6 Zaiji

With a jovial and boisterous atmosphere characteristic of popular dim sum shops, this is one of the best spots in the city to indulge in this famous cuisine. Chef Qiu Weiguo serves up an array of dishes that run the gamut from traditional to experimental. The xiaolongbao (steamed dumpling filled with pork and soup) are exemplary, as are the xiajiao (steamed shrimp and pork dumpling) and the more unusual lamb-filled shaomai (dumpling traditionally made with pork, shrimp and mushrooms). The stellar danmai chashao bao sees the traditional mantou (steamed bun) shell replaced with a crisp, flaky bread similar to a croissant – a quirky Paris-meets-Canton fusion dish that is a must-order. The restaurant’s newest location in Yuexiu district offers diners incredible river views too.
Yangguangcheng, 7/F, Jiangwan Commercial Center, 298 Yanjiang Zhong Lu, Yuexiu District

What’s going on in February

Lantern Festival (8 February)

As the climax of the Chinese New Year festivities, friends and family gather to light lanterns, moongaze and eat sweet rice balls. Visit Yuexiu Park to witness cultural performances and wander among the art installations that are illuminated come nightfall.

The Past of Shawan (6 to 7 March)

Set in 1930s Shawan, a village in Guangzhou’s Panyu district, this show interprets legendary tales through dance routines. It is a vivid artistic introduction to times long past in the region.

Singapore Airlines flies to Guangzhou daily. To book a flight, visit singaporeair.com
SEE ALSO: The best of Guangzhou’s ancient attractions and trendy spots
This article was originally published in the February 2020 issue of SilverKris magazine

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Café With a View

 On a warmer day, we would have been right up front enjoying the view of Saint-Sulpice.

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What is the Cabinet of the Masks? The Vatican’s Secret Chamber.

The Cabinet of the Masks is one of the many hidden treasures you can find at the Vatican Museum. Though many visit the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael Rooms on their trip…

from Italy Travel Blog – The Roman Guy

Some of the best self-care products from KrisShop

KrisShop offers a wide selection of items that are designed to make you feel refreshed and reinvigorated.

Banyan Tree Essentials Peace and Tranquility Travel Ritual

Consider the Banyan Tree Essentials Peace and Tranquility Travel Ritual, a four-piece travel set designed to calm your senses with specially selected essential oils. It’s sure to enhance a restful sleep while energising the body and mind.

Salvatore Ferragamo Signorina EDP 50ML Limited Red fragrance

During the day, carry yourself with confidence as you wear the Salvatore Ferragamo Signorina EDP 50ML Limited Red fragrance – an elegant mix of floral notes and panna cotta.

YSL Volupté Plump-in-Colour lip balm

Looking good can also help you feel good. The YSL Volupté Plump-in-Colour lip balm will keep your lips nourished while lending a high-shine, luscious colour.

T2 Green Rose Iconic

And don’t forget to care for your body too – the T2 Green Rose Iconic Tin contains green tea blended with rose petals and tropical fruits. It’s also loaded with beneficial antioxidants.

Visit KrisShop.com today for more inspiration on self-care.

SEE ALSO: KrisShop products to combat dry skin

This article was originally published in the March 2020 issue of SilverKris magazine

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from SilverKris

Jardin du Palais Royal

My favorite garden no matter the season.

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What is it like to travel around the world in a wheelchair?

Are you sitting comfortably? Good. Now imagine I am sitting next to you. I was already on the plane when you boarded, in my seat, bags stowed. What you won’t know is that I have extra “baggage”. My wheelchair was the last item to go into the hold and will be the first item out. When we land, you’ll disembark while I’ll remain in my seat. Once everyone else has disembarked, my wheelchair will be brought to the cabin door and the crew will use a narrow aisle version to assist me off the aircraft.

Of course, my wheelchair is more than just luggage. It’s made to measure, so if it goes missing, it’s more than an inconvenience. It’s like arriving at your destination, only to discover you have been accidentally handcuffed to a block of concrete during the flight. The airport authorities load the concrete block into a shopping trolley so it can be pushed around with you for a few days while they try and find the keys to the handcuffs.

Thankfully, most airlines now recognise the importance of specialist mobility equipment. But it wasn’t always the case. I used to have to insist that I stayed in my chair rather than check it in with my suitcase. Now, remaining in my personal wheelchair right up to the aircraft is considered unremarkable, and misplaced or broken wheelchairs are the exception rather than the rule.

Although I was based in the UK, I have always enjoyed travel – visiting cities across Asia. I married an Australian, which meant plenty of shuttling between the UK and Down Under, where her family is. Then, in 2005, I suffered a spinal cord injury and have been a wheelchair user ever since. Apart from navigating airports and airlines, I now have to email hotels with all kinds of questions. If the staff is not prepared to measure door widths or ensure there is a shower seat, I’ll take my business elsewhere.
Thankfully, the larger hotel chains are moving towards better facilities for people with disabilities and I’m sure there’ll be more breakthroughs in travel for the mobility impaired. Perhaps it’s time someone looked at the design of aircraft for the next big breakthrough. Then I wouldn’t have to leave my wheelchair at all.

3 hotels with good accessibility

1. Novotel Samator Surabaya Timur Hotel, Indonesia

As with most of the Accor Group hotels, Novotel offers fully wheelchair-accessible rooms as well as accessible bathrooms.

2. PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, Singapore

Great central location, easy access to many attractions around the bay, with good step-free footpaths throughout the area.

3. Ascott Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Located close to KLCC, these serviced apartments are wheelchair accessible and have roll-in showers as well as grab bars.

Illustration by Lexin Wong
SEE ALSO: Top safety tips for travelling alone
This article was originally published in the March 2020 issue of Silkwinds magazine
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Review: The Society Hotel, Bingen

Bedrooms in The Society Hotel are rustic and chic

1. Back to school

Pieces of original slate decorated with chalk drawings hang on the walls of the hotel that’s a four-hour drive from Seattle in Washington State. It functioned as the Bingen School between 1908 and 1975, but instead of reading, writing and arithmetic, you’ll now find rest, relaxation and rejuvenation. Architect Ben Waechter took on the challenge of creating thoughtful design that combines adaptive reuse with new construction, converting the main building into a mix of classrooms-turned-bedrooms. For instance, in the old Spanish classroom, vocabulary charts and maps labelled in Spanish hang on the walls; while two bunk rooms are now stacked with triple bunks and lockers for guests.

A hammock and picnic table add to the allure

2. Roughing it in style

Twenty private cabin rooms stand in a circle on the old sports fields, all built with local lumber and connected by a winding roof.  Each comes equipped with a hammock and picnic table for lounging around. Adding to the compound’s rustic-chic vibe are enamel dishware – reminiscent of mess kits – and lush Moroccan throw rugs. Through the windows, you’ll occasionally glimpse a lone train chugging through the town.

The Society Hotel’s spa

3. Hydrotherapy under the stars

In the centre of the ring of cabins is the spa and bathhouse, a modern-rustic wooden structure that mimics the roofline of the schoolhouse. Guests congregate to splash under skylights in the warm salt water pool, cold plunge pool, dry sauna or outdoor hot tub, where bathers get to soak in the open air. A massage therapist is available for treatments too.

Shoot hoops at the communal space

4. Nostalgic recreation

If you’ve caught a spirit of mischief, head to the site of the old principal’s office, where a bar and café now stands. Grab sandwiches, locally roasted coffee or a craft beer and retreat to the library and lounge where you’ll find leather chairs, wooden tables, a stack of board games and a wall of books. There’s also a sanctuary space at the edge of the property that’s a great place for yoga or quiet reflection. All the public spaces throughout the hotel are built with community in mind, so if you’re feeling even more social, head over to the gymnasium, where you can shoot hoops or play shuffleboard with whoever’s game.

5. A magnificent natural playground

Bingen – located in Washington State’s Klickitat County – sits in the stunning Columbia River Gorge. Driving east, Mount Hood stands craggy and proud on the horizon, while silvery waterfalls emerge intermittently from the heights. The area is bound on one side by hills rising straight up and on the other side by the glittering Columbia River, and is an excellent base for hiking, windsurfing and visiting local microbreweries. Be sure to consult the “adventure wall” in the lobby, replete with suggestions of local hangouts and hidden gems by guests who came before. And in a nod to preserving the abundant local flora, the grounds of the hotel are strewn with native plants to serve as a pollen corridor.
thesocietyhotel.com
SEE ALSO: Review: The State Hotel, Seattle
This article was originally published in the March 2020 issue of SilverKris magazine
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Singapore Airlines and Mastercard strengthens bond with launch of KrisFlyer Experiences Programme

Photo credit: Madddstock/Shutterstock.com

Singapore Airlines (SIA) and Mastercard have announced an extension of their partnership with the launch of KrisFlyer Experiences, which allows KrisFlyer members and Mastercard cardholders to use their miles on specially curated activities and enjoy privileged access to events covering a wide range of interests – including food, entertainment, arts, sports and travel.
This partnership was inaugurated through the Unbox a New Experience campaign, which granted one KrisFlyer member and one Mastercard cardholder the chance to win a pair of all-expenses-paid, once-in-a-lifetime tickets to a special KrisFlyer Experience valued at more than S$35,000. The winner had to correctly guess the experience hidden within a mystery box, and share a creative response about who they would like to bring along for the experience and why.
Other KrisFlyer Experiences to look forward to include a wine tasting walkabout session occurring this month and an outdoor movie screening in May 2020. Special fares and other add-ons will also be made available to KrisFlyer members and Mastercard cardholders globally as a result of the partnership.
To register their interest in the various experiences, KrisFlyer members can visit KrisFlyerExperiences.com for more details. The experiences will be made available progressively.
SEE ALSO: American Express and Singapore Airlines to continue supporting SMEs in Singapore
This article was originally published in the March 2020 issue of SilverKris magazine
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Marché Georges Brassens

In the 15th arrondissement, the Marché Georges Brassens is open every weekend. It's just the place for those who love old and used books.

104 Rue Brancion, 75015 Paris, France

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An insider’s guide to Dusseldorf, Germany

EAT

Coffee and cake lovers can head to Konditorei Heinemann, a family-run business that has been delighting customers since 1932 with its signature Herrentorte, a dark chocolate tart. Brauerei im Füchschen, on the other hand, is a pub famous for its Rhine dishes such as Himmel und Ähd (black pudding and mashed potatoes) and altbier, a top-fermented German brew.

EXPLORE

Consider going on a river cruise with Weiße Flotte. You’ll travel down the Rhine from the old city to Kaiserswerth, a suburb where tourists can visit the ruins of the Kaiserpfalz castle and enjoy scenic views. The Eifel National Park also provides countless hiking opportunities amid breathtaking greenery. And don’t forget to check out the vibrant street art in Flingern and Bilk.

SHOP

Dusseldorf’s answer to Paris’ Champs-Élysées or New York’s Fifth Avenue is Königsallee, where you’ll find plenty of high-end luxury brands. Make time for antique flea markets too. They open every Saturday morning at Aachener Platz, and one Sunday a month (usually the second) at Ulmenstraße. And in Lorettoviertel, you can find local boutiques and brands within beautifully restored buildings.

STAY

Steigenberger Parkhotel, situated just opposite the Hofgarten, was first opened in 1902 and continues exuding a sense of opulence today. Meanwhile, the quaint Villa Achenbach has won awards for its décor, reminiscent of the Victorian cottages of the 19th century. For something more casual, try the 25hours Hotel – a boutique bolthole that’s close to two main train stations.

TIPS

Dusseldorf is a small city and you can easily get around on foot. If not, a day ticket is helpful if you plan on using public transport. It costs just €6.80 (S$10.20). Be sure to travel on the Wehrhahn line, where six artists were commissioned to design its stations, with each one reflecting a different architectural style. The best time to visit is in summer – expect open-air cinemas and parties lasting till sunrise.
Singapore Airlines flies to Dusseldorf four times weekly. To book a flight, visit singaporeair.com
Illustration by Lara Paulussen

SEE ALSO: 5 of the hottest independent businesses in Dusseldorf
This article was originally published in the February 2020 issue of SilverKris magazine

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from SilverKris

Coronavirus lockdown: All domestic flights suspended till April 14

Amid the nationwide lockdown to fight against coronavirus, all domestic flights have been suspended further till April 14. The ban on flights was earlier imposed only till March 31, but it has now been extended.

The international flights were already suspended by the authorities till April 15, even before the 21-day lockdown was announced.

The railways had long stopped all inter-state services for passengers, and now are only allowing transportation of groceries and essential services. With the flights also suspended, nationwide travel comes to a halt.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is issuing several advisories in order to spread awareness among the masses about the Do’s and Don’ts. They have also released a comic document to educate children about the infectious virus and its preventive measures.

The COVID-19 or the novel coronavirus has been declared a pandemic by the WHO. Thus all the nations are stepping up efforts to fight the disease which is spreading at a very fast pace.

India is under a 21-day lockdown period until April 14, in order to break the chain of this virus, spreading from one infected person to another through contact.

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Venice postpones introduction of tourist entry fee until 2021

The streets and squares of Venice are deserted due to the coronavirus outbreak and the situation is a cause of great worry for the city’s administration. So much that they’ve decided to postpone the introduction of the entry fee to the city.

Last autumn, the Venetian authorities announced the introduction of an “entry ticket” for all tourists wanting to visit the Queen of the Adriatic, with prices ranging from €3 in the off season to €10 in high season.

But now that the city is going through its worst tourism crisis of the last sixty years, the mayor of Venice has decided to postpone the introduction of the fee to until 1 July 2021.

Mayor Luigi Brugnaro said that implementing the entry fee right now would be “ill-timed”. However, he also said that the administration still intends to bring “a different kind of tourism to Venice,” and help the city with its overcrowding issues.

Brugnaro and his council members have estimated that it will be a year before the economic losses from this lockdown level out, but they’re confident that tourism will start again as soon as possible, because “Venice is Venice”.

This article was first published on www.lonelyplanet.com.

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Daily foods that can build your immunity

These daily foods will help build your immunity naturally. Take a look and make them a part of your everyday meal.

FRUITS

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How to follow a healthy routine while at home

We all have a routine to follow, and now that home is your everything for a while, why not practice a new routine to keep your good and healthy habits going. A few tips below may help create a new daily routine so you remain active and positive.

Eat balanced meals

It is important to keep a check on your eating habits now, more than ever, because there is minimum activity taking place. Make sure your meals are balanced and healthy; include salads, fibre, protein and nuts. Superfoods like berries, yogurt and green vegetables can be made an essential part of the meals. Avoid stress eating!

Exercise

Yes, the parks and gyms have been shut, but exercising isn’t dependent on them! Take an early morning yoga session, or follow a 10-minute stretching in the lobby every few hours, take up online zumba or aerobics, or even dance classes, for that matter. Exercising is an essential part of the routine for now, to keep the body active and fit.

Maintain hobbies

Now is the time! Make use of these days to explore your hobbies and indulge in them. Be it reading, writing, painting, music, knitting or anything else, avail these days when you are at home, to bring out your creative side.

Learn to meditate

Meditation connects you with your inner self. With peace outside, it’ll be easier to find peace within. Find a corner of your home, put on an online tutorial and connect with yourself. You may be surprised how it refreshes the soul.

Take small breaks from work

Sitting in front of that laptop all day can make you lethargic and your eye-sight (probably) weaker. Keep taking short breaks in the form of walks to the balcony.

Drink more water

Drinking water is something we do not remember as a part of our routine. Make sure you keep a water bottle with you always, and every time your eyes fall on it, take a sip. This way, your water intake will be adequate.

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An Outback Safari Adventure in Australiaâs Gawler Ranches

For some of us, at a time like this, to think about travel could be considered frivolous. But we know that although the days ahead may be tough, we will get through this. Our lives will never be the same, but we will get through it. And when we

...

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from JustLuxe: LuxuryTravel News

Unique museums you should check out around the network

One of the perks of travelling is discovering the art, history and culture of various cities – and beyond – by visiting museums, which can tell stories about quirky topics or pay tribute to exceptional people. From the weird and macabre to an intriguing look into the lives of famous people, here are five unique museums to visit on your travels.

This museum is in the shape of a toilet. Photo credit: BoyCatalyst/Shutterstock.com

1. Mr. Toilet House, Suwon, South Korea

It might not have the word “museum” in its name but this is – in every sense of the word – a museum. Except that it’s filled with toilets! Sim Jae-duck was the mayor of Suwon City – some 30km from Seoul and a popular day trip destination ­– when he started a campaign to improve toilets in South Korea. He founded the World Toilet Association in 2007 and, to celebrate this achievement, he tore down the house he’d lived in for 30 years to build a new one in the shape of a toilet. He left the building to the city when he died in 2009 and it became Mr. Toilet House, Suwon’s Toilet Culture Exhibit Hall. Visitors get to check out different toilets from around the world, learn how toilet culture has evolved, and discover how sanitation is being improved in the developing world.

2. Torture Museum Amsterdam, Netherlands

Until several centuries ago, torturing people and executions were common in every European city. Over 40 instruments of punishment from various parts of Europe are displayed in the exhibition “Punishments and Verdicts in the Middle Ages” in this Amsterdam institution. They range from decapitation swords and the inquisition chair to the guillotine. For the inquisitive, it’s a fascinating journey into Europe’s painful past and exhibits are illustrated with historical engravings and background information, giving visitors insights into the when, how and where they were used. You also get to learn about human rights treaties, as well as the actions of the Amnesty International.

You can create the packaging and flavour of your own cup noodles at the Cupnoodles Museum. Photo credit: Lewis Tse Pui Lung/Shutterstock.com

3. Cupnoodles Museum, Osaka, Japan

We all love sinful, oh-so-delicious cup noodles from time to time. If you’re interested in finding out the origins of this food and how it has grown over the years, this is the place to go. The world’s first instant noodles – Chicken Ramen – was invented in 1958 by Nissin Foods founder Momofuku Ando in his backyard shed in Ikeda-city, Osaka Prefecture. Of course, it’s fitting that Cupnoodles Museum Osaka Ikeda be built here, too. Find out how cup noodles evolved from instant noodles, visit a recreation of the shed where the first instant noodles was invented, and enjoy the opportunity to create the packaging and flavour of your personal cup noodles. And don’t miss the fascinating Instant Noodles Tunnel with approximately 600 product packages on display.

4. The Bunny Museum, California, USA

Not recommended for pre-schoolers and bunny lovers looking forward to petting the furry creatures, this museum in Altadena – about a half-hour drive from downtown Los Angeles – claims to be “the hoppiest place in the world”. Candace Frazee and Steve Lubanski inadvertently started the museum in 1993 when he gave her a plush bunny because she called him her “Honey Bunny”. This turned out to be the first of many bunny gifts the couple gave each other. They married and, in 1998, opened their home in Pasadena to the public, with around 8,000 items. When they first moved to the Altadena location in 2017, they had about 34,000 items. Today, it’s home to more than 36,000 and showcases the history of bunnies in art, entertainment, fashion, film and advertising. There’s even The Chamber of Hop Horrors that educates visitors on the abuse of bunnies through experimentation, and highlights the role bunnies have played in horror movies.

The Freud Museum is where you can see Freud’s famous couch. Photo credit: Willy Barton/Shutterstock.com

5. Freud Museum, London, England

There are several brilliant museums in London, such as the British Museum and the Natural History Museum, and then there are some considerably quirky ones. The Freud Museum is one such example and is located in the final home of Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis, and his daughter Anna Freud, a pioneering child psychoanalyst, in Maresfield Gardens, London. The Freuds fled to England as refugees in 1938, following the Nazi annexation of Vienna, and Sigmund spent the last year of his life here, while Anna lived in the house until she died in 1982. The aim of this museum is to highlight the relevance of their work in the contemporary world. On display are 2,500 antiques from Freud’s personal collection, an extensive archive of documents, and a library featuring over 1,600 books that belonged to him. Oh, and there’s also his original psychoanalytic couch in the study, where patients famously shared anything and everything that came to mind.
To book a flight, visit singaporeair.com
SEE ALSO: These museums are every sweet tooth’s dream
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from SilverKris

Vert å Paris

Have a seat!

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Scams to Avoid on Your Trip to Rome

The Eternal City is home to some of the world’s most fascinating sites. There’s so much to see, and once you arrive you’ll be excited to see it all. In your excitement…

from Italy Travel Blog – The Roman Guy

5 eco-friendly and sustainable travel essentials

The Reformation Terracotta One Piece sports a scooped neck and low back

1. Reformation Terracotta One Piece

Look good with this swimsuit made with 78% ECONYL (a regenerated nylon material).

These two-toned sandals have an intricate woven design

2. Carrie Forbes Moha Slides

These shoes are made from raffia palm leaves and are hand-woven by Moroccan artisans.

This stylish piece is made from genuine decommissioned fire-hoses and a reclaimed military-grade parachute silk lining

3. Elvis & Kresse Weekend Bag

The carrier is made out of decommissioned fire-hose material and rescued fabrics from Burberry’s workshop.

Smooth and sleek, this will protect its wearer from the elements

4. Kathmandu Stockton Rain Jacket

The New Zealand-based outdoor gear brand has released this sleek outerwear that’s a mixture of recycled plastic and polyester.

Made from bamboo fibre, this reusable cup is a stylish way to carry coffee

5. Ekobo Bamboo Travel Mug

This reusable cup – with a lid that can also double as a non-slip coaster – is made out of durable and long-lasting FSC-certified bamboo fibre.

To book a flight, visit singaporeair.com
SEE ALSO: 10 travel essentials in Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2020
This article was originally published in the March 2020 issue of SilverKris magazine
The post 5 eco-friendly and sustainable travel essentials appeared first on SilverKris.


from SilverKris

Chef Nicola Fanetti

from Delicious Italy | The Food and Travel Guide to Italian Regions

Chef Valentino Cassanelli

from Delicious Italy | The Food and Travel Guide to Italian Regions

Michelangelo’s Life in Florence

Michelangelo is not only considered one of the premiere artists of the Renaissance, but one of the greatest artists to have ever lived. His work across a variety of mediums, but especially…

from Italy Travel Blog – The Roman Guy

The 2020 Olympic Games have officially been postponed

As sports and athletics organizations around the world cancel competitions and events in light of COVID-19, officials with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Tokyo 2020 Games had resisted calls to delay this summer’s opening ceremony. However, the decision has finally been made to postpone.

On Monday, one IOC member stated in an interview that he did not think the Games would go ahead as planned.  “On the basis of the information the IOC has, postponement has been decided,” Canadian IOC member Dick Pound told USA Today in an interview. “The parameters going forward have not been determined, but the Games are not going to start on July 24, that much I know.”

Pound’s statements came one day after the IOC announced that a decision would be made regarding the fate of the Olympics within the next four weeks, and just hours after Canada and Australia announced that they wouldn’t be sending athletes to compete if the Games went ahead as planned. However, on Tuesday, the Japanese prime minister, Shinzo Abe, and the IOC agreed to a one-year postponement of the Games.

The prime minister’s office then tweeted that the decision to postpone had been agreed upon with IOC President Thomas Bach. The IOC said in a statement: “In the present circumstances and based on the information provided by the WHO today, the IOC President and the Prime Minister of Japan have concluded that the Games of the XXXII Olympiad in Tokyo must be rescheduled to a date beyond 2020 but not later than summer 2021, to safeguard the health of the athletes, everybody involved in the Olympic Games and the international community”.

As Lonely Planet reported earlier this month, the decision to cancel or postpone would be a costly one for Japan – the country has already spent an estimated $26bn in the ramp-up to the Games. But it wouldn’t be an unprecedented move. The Summer Games were called off in 1916, during World War I, and during World War II, both the Summer and Winter games were called off in 1940 and 1944, respectively.

In lieu of total cancellation or postponement, the idea of proceeding behind closed doors had also been bandied about, but the loss of revenue from ticket sales and the atmosphere thousands of cheering fans provide, would be sorely missed – not to mention the health risks involved, and the fact that athletes are struggling to properly prepare for the competition, given the current directive in many places to practice social distancing.

This article was first published on www.lonelyplanet.com.

from
via Lonely Planet India

哥本哈根: 暖阳下的咖啡香

Lille坐落于大窗户装点的旧工业大楼内 Photo credit: Suwapat Poolsap

1. Lille Bakery 

曾是哥本哈根的造船重地的 Refshaleøen半岛充满新气象，从有机美食市集、前卫的哥本哈根现代美术馆到迁址重新开张的Noma餐厅，新店如雨后春笋般崛起。Lille是该区的优质匠人面包坊，坐落于大窗户装点的旧工业大楼内， 是一家由创始人发起众筹活动而诞生的面包店。店名Lille在丹麦语中是“小”的意思，但与店名形成反差的是，跳脱规范的店家凭着以面包为主的午餐，在城中暂据重要地位。到此不妨品尝其牛角面包，配意大利香肠或咸鳕鱼、鹰嘴豆以及蛋吐司。

Central Café是城中最迷你的咖啡馆 Photo credit: Jon Norstrøm

2. Central Café

位于Vesterbro一带，隐身于两栋大楼之间，这家迷你精巧的社区咖啡馆比起其自家炮制的告尔多咖啡（Cortados） 更别致可爱。想一品咖啡香，前提要有足够运气，因为店内仅设5人座位。店址前身是制鞋店，历史可追溯至1897年，赤陶土墙面、串灯、暗沉色木吧台、黑白老照片和复古旅游标志，无不让人沉浸于美好的旧日时光。不仅是城中最迷你的咖啡馆，它也是世界上最小的酒店之一，咖啡馆楼上仅设一间双人房。想喝冷饮的话，这里也提供有机冰淇淋和奶昔。

Hart Bageri售卖各类丹麦面包、酥脆小豆蔻面包和烤芝士蛋糕

3. Hart Bageri

英国厨师兼烘培师Richard Hart 在三藩市的Tartine（以面包享誉全球）取得成功后，将店面迁至丹麦首府，在绿意青葱的民宅区Frederiksberg开设邻里面包店。面包店的高人气是必然，这有赖于 René Redzepi（Noma主理人）的支持，Noma便是从这里采购其完美无懈可击的酵母面包。除了口感厚实的面包，此处也售卖各类丹麦面包、酥脆小豆蔻面包和烤芝士蛋糕。北欧式灰色和浅木色内饰装潢，伴随着新鲜烘焙出炉的面包香气，让人难以抗拒，忍不住停驻脚步。

Kafeteria有自家制酵母面包和蛋糕 Photo credit: Niklas Vindelev

4. Kafeteria

不仅是一家美术馆附设的咖啡厅，位于丹麦国家美术馆的Kafeteria也是料理与艺术激荡出美丽火花的空间，访客可在此静心品赏艺术之美。由丹麦设计师Danh Vo构思设计，装潢融合了北欧、日本与意大利设计美学。Enzo Mari的手作轻木椅，摆放在经典的丹麦家具旁；日本艺术师野口勇的纸灯笼，悬挂于狭长高耸的天花板之上。主打的是现代丹麦料理，有自家制酵母面包和蛋糕、浓郁的咖啡，以及配搭不同涂酱和切肉冷盘、采用新鲜季节性食材制作的Smørrebrød (开放式黑麦面包三明治)。

5. Paludan Bogcafé

想要找个地方，读一本好书，沉浸在悠扬的爵士乐中消磨时光？这里是好去处。馆内高书柜上书籍陈列，让访客沉浸在书香氛围之中，一边享受早午餐。位于Fiolstræde街区，邻近哥本哈根大学，曾是犹太人区的一条窄巷，Paludan Bogcafé过去近20年来成为文人雅士聚集地。访客不但能在此购买多不胜数的精美皮革装订书册，也能找到丹麦文、英文和其他语文的新书。这里提供了多元的美食选择（包括汉堡、美式松饼和丰盛早餐精选），咖啡也毫不逊色。

这家咖啡馆以充满实验性的创意手法 Photo credit: Claus Troelsgård

6. The Corner at 108

匠人面包烘焙风潮在哥本哈根吹袭已有一段时日，但这家咖啡馆以充满实验性的创意手法，带来米其林等级的美味糕点，将这股风潮提升至全新高度。各式美食如形状非典型的扭结牛角面包涂抹上康普茶咖啡、黑加仑子与发酵牛肉，风味独特，再配以沙拉以及烟熏蛋羊肉鞑靼等，让食客得以用平民价品尝毗邻的姐妹餐厅——米其林名店Restaurant 108的料理风味，同时享受天然葡萄酒和酸啤酒，度过细雨纷飞的周末午后。

The Coffee Collective Godthåbsvej结合了咖啡豆烘焙和咖啡馆的开放式空间

7. The Coffee Collective Godthåbsvej

需要咖啡因醒脑？到Frederiksberg这家气氛悠闲的咖啡馆，享受迷人咖啡香吧。以优质咖啡闻名，简洁的白墙、木质餐桌和摆设巧妙的绿植，以及结合了咖啡豆烘焙和咖啡馆的开放式空间，装潢走极简风。店里使用的咖啡豆都是以公平交易价格直接向当地农民采购，咖啡馆也举办工作坊，如咖啡品鉴课，探索包括品种、生产方式、烘焙和冲泡过程等影响咖啡风味的关键因素 。

Next Door Café所贩售的美味蛋糕皆是手工自家制

8. Next Door Café

这是一家以人为本的咖啡馆，业主Skyler和Klaus就住在当地社区，两人也是邻居关系（店名因此而来）。Skyler曾在当地嬉皮士社区——克里斯蒂安尼亚自由城的一家咖啡馆工作，其后决定往外发展。开业之初，该社区的朋友们协助装饰咖啡馆，因此装潢融合了不同的风格，既像是地下酒吧，又似温馨的家居客厅——紫色墙面、迪斯科灯球、错落有致的镜子、新鲜摘剪的花朵，以及客人在桌面玻璃层塞入的留言纸条和照片。而这里所贩售的美味蛋糕，包括经典的巧克力布朗尼，皆是手工自家制。 
Singapore Airlines flies to Copenhagen six times weekly. To book a flight, visit singaporeair.com
SEE ALSO: Top eco-friendly restaurants in Copenhagen
This article was originally published in the March 2020 issue of SilverKris magazine
The post 哥本哈根: 暖阳下的咖啡香 appeared first on SilverKris.


from SilverKris