Adventures
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Vesuvius
Iceland
Amsterdam
USA
New York, taking a bite out of ‘The Big Apple’.
New York. A city that is often associated with some of the finest architecture, the large meals and of course the famous ‘Yellow Cab’. From standing tall in ‘The Empire State Building’ to simply riding the Subway, here’s everything I discovered during my week in the concrete jungle.
From the minute I learned that New York would be my next destination, I was ecstatic, I knew that walking around Manhattan was going to feel like walking around a movie studio and I wasn’t disappointed.
On the day we arrived at JFK international airport, I didn’t know what to expect other than that I would be seeing something of ‘Times Square’ (which was right around the corner from the hotel). The taxi journey was remarkable and we could already see some of the monumental sites such as ‘One World Trade’. The rest of the journey would take about half an hour but it felt much less when I was looking out of the window at such recognisable streets.
Finally, we arrived at the hotel. We checked in, unpacked and were ready to have a look around. Stepping into ‘Times Square’ was incredible. Looking around at all of the billboards of upcoming films, one in particular had a slightly larger billboard that all of the others, it also had a stage and a significant amount of advertising around the whole of ‘Times Square’. This was a premiere for the brand new ‘Mission Impossible Rouge Nation’. I was in disbelief when I found out that Tom Cruise was going to be arriving within the next hour... or two. Then he arrived and it was brilliant. That took up the majority of the first day but it was worth it.
It must be said, ‘Ground Zero’ and ‘One World Trade’ is the most inspiring day trip to ever go on. Seeing how New York has rebuilt itself, not just its infrastructure, but its community since that fateful day is breathtaking. As well as that, looking down at the streets below seeing the cars crawling like ants is fascinating.
One of my favourite things about my New York trip was watching my very first (and still to this day only) baseball game. It was a thoroughly enjoyable experience despite the fact the New York Mets lost 11-7 to the Rockies and the game was in doubt after the teams had to take a break due to a huge rain-storm.
The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of freedom and hope. It is a marvel to see from a distance, let alone stand in the crown. One of the most interesting things about the interior of The Statue of Liberty, is the fact you can see the face of the statue from the inside when walking down the spiral staircase.
It would be difficult to write about New York without recommending a ‘bona fide’ New York Cheesecake. I enjoyed my cheesecake at ‘Juniors’ in 45th street. There really isn’t anything quite like it but when you’ve tasted one, you’ll know exactly what I mean.
Most New Yorkers advise purchasing a Metrocard as it is difficult to navigate your way through the busy, populated streets and hopping on the Subway is much easier. The Subway is an interesting aspect of New York culture, from busking at platform-side to live performances on the train, the people will entertain as much as they can to make a buck.
A truly brilliant part of my visit to ‘The Big Apple’ was getting to see a Broadway show. Entrancing, engaging and entertaining from start to finish, this is something that you must absolutely put on your ‘to do list’.
I’m not overly religious but sitting and listening to an authentic church choir had some real credibility that was truly inviting to the spirit that made you want to stand up and move. The sermons bleed passion and the emotion that went behind what was said throughout are enough to give anyone some affirmation.
New York may be a city largely associated with landmarks and ‘Yellow Cabs’ but I found it to be much more than what you’ll find in a film. Before going, you will need to make a ‘to do list’ because there is so much to see.
San Franciso
Overview
Steep, sophisticated and special.
When I stepped off the plane from the reasonably short flight from Los Angeles to San Francisco, the first thing I noticed was the cold air around me which took me completely by surprise as I didn’t expect San Francisco to feel so cold but if you are British and haven’t just been to ‘The Hottest City in the USA’ then you will probably feel a slight temperature increase.
After a short taxi journey, we arrived at our hotel which was right next to ‘Mason’. In Mason, the streets are unforgiving, your nose is mere centimetres from the pavement in front of you and just standing up makes you feel like a Smooth Criminal. -Michael Jackson reference.
If walking up the near vertical streets doesn’t have your legs aching then why not challenge yourself to a stroll across the Golden Gate Bridge? A brisk forty minute walk is surely enough time to firstly plan your next sightseeing adventure and secondly, and most importantly, plan lunch- you’ll be needing it.
The best way to get around the City, is definitely to book a bus tour. You may be thinking that the trolley cars are just as reliable but you’d be mistaken, traveling at crawling pace in a crowded wooden box has become somewhat of a novelty rather than a mode of transport. If you really want to get yourself a memorable picture riding a trolley car, then get yourself down to one of the turntables where there are usually a few stored up just asking for you to take a photograph.
If you want an interesting experience, then get yourself down to pier 39 (K-dock) a short Google search should clear up why although the pictures hardly do it justice.
Another must-see in ‘The City of Fog’ is the view from the ‘Top of the Mark Hopkins Hotel’ that is if you are looking for a breathtaking view, make sure you go at night time though otherwise you are greeted by a thick fog that will inhibit an excellent view of San Francisco.
Finally, make sure you take a night-cruise. You will see a view of Alcaraz Island like no other, an image that looks like something straight out of a horror film. The loan tower light is the only thing lighting the island leaving a dark silhouette of history behind you.
Greece
Athens
Overview
Kalimera and Kalispera
Athens is hot. Very hot. It is fair to say that suncream and a hat are absolute essentials for this city.
Upon arrival, we were driven through the centre of Monstraki Square, next to where our hotel was. From here we could see the ancient Acropolis with the famous Parthenon standing proud above Athens. Athens really has a large culture shock from the perspective of a British person because Athens has stray cats and dogs all over the city, stray cats are common in England but not so much stray dogs so this really took me by surprise. Another surprising thing about Athens, is how relaxed people are, almost to the point where it seems dangerous as our taxi driver didn’t hesitate to pull his phone out behind the wheel. Smoking is extremely common so you will have to get used to the smell of tobacco before coming to Athens.
Greek cuisine is outstanding above all other countries and even now I’d kill for another souvlaki, regardless of when you are reading this and when this was published, I am not exaggerating, souvlaki is one of my favourite things about Athens and it is never too soon to enjoy another one, what it is exactly, is a skewer of chicken or pork with peppers topped with lemon.
In terms of landmarks and historical monuments, Athens is absolutely littered in them, walk down one street and you could be looking at an ancient church, turn down the next corner and you may well find the pillar of an old temple. One of my favourite monuments was the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Particularly because of the fact it is so damaged but still some pillars seemingly defying nature stand tall.
An absolute must see is the ancient Acropolis which translates to ‘The City of life’. If you arrive early enough, you can see Greek soldiers mounting the flag beside the Parthenon. Not only do you get to stand along side some of Ancient Greece’s finest architecture, you also get some of the finest views of Athens. The Acropolis museum clears up all of your questions on the history of the site. As well as this, archaeologists are currently digging beneath the museum where recently, ruins have been uncovered of Ancient Greek buildings.
If we are talking about the best view of Athens, very few compete with that of Lycabettus hill (Athens highest point) breathtaking scenery of Athens beauty at a 360 degree panoramic view. This is an absolute must see. Although you must be willing to climb the hill first. There is the Church of Agios Georgios which is a beautiful monument on its own.
Without a doubt my favourite part of my trip to Athens, was going on a safari. This isn’t your typical safari, cruising round the outback of Athens seeing some of the finest views whilst driving at speed gives a thrill like no other as if you are in a real life video game. This was definitely my favourite part of Athens. (Apart from souvlaki of course).
In the evenings, and even some mornings, shopkeepers and restaurant owners will stand on the streets persuading you to take a seat or buy an overpriced souvenir. If you wish not to enter, in the morning in response to their demands, say ‘Kalimera’ which is Greek for ‘good morning’ and in the evening say ‘Kalispera’ which translates to ‘good evening’ this is simply a polite dismissal to stop the harassment. Don’t however pass up on the opportunity to eat at an authentic Greek restaurant and make sure you enjoy the nightlife.
One final recommendation, is going to a traditional Greek nightclub. The Greek dancing and celebrations will surely see you shouting ‘Opa!’ in praise. And to top off the night, if you go to a nightclub with a meal included, you finish off by throwing a plate onto the stage as a traditional way of ridding evil from the room. I’m sure you’ll have a smashing time.
DUBAI
Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark
Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark is hands down the greatest waterpark on the planet. It would be impossible to disagree if you have ever visited it.
To get to Atlantis itself, you must first venture across to The Palm by way of taxi or if you’d like to see some of Dubai’s best located houses on the way then perhaps you’d rather ride the monorail. Either mode of transport you choose gives you a VIP view of the stunning Atlantis Hotel as you make your way through the midrib of The Palm.
Upon arrival as you say your final goodbyes to the beautifully air conditioned taxi or train station, you are smacked in the face with the heat. You’ll feel this exact phenomenon every time you leave a building or vehicle in the Gulf Tiger. The monorail station is a few metres from the entrance and taxis drop you off at the door so you don’t feel the heat for too long. Once you’re inside the excitement begins to build up especially if you’re like me and spent the months leading up to the trip searching for P.O.V’s of the “Leap of Faith” and “Poseidon’s Revenge” (Open YouTube and watch them and you’ll see why).
As soon as I arrived at the entrance of the Waterpark, I immediately looked at a map of the park and it was immense. How many water parks have you been to where you can zip line from slide to slide? Or take a free golf cart ride from one end to the other? This entire leaf or the Palm was made up of pools and water slides. It was Heaven.
The most convenient way around the Waterpark for me, wasn’t the zip line, it wasn’t the golf cart, it was the rapids. What sounds more awesome than traveling from water slide to water slide via the rapids on a rubber dinghy. At every big stop however you will be stopped by photographers who will take a family photo and scan your wristband. They will eventually try to sell you these pictures for about the same price as your first house unless you are a good negotiator.
The “Leap of Faith” had a surprisingly fast queue but then I realised why when I saw the near vertical drop that you are faced with. I wouldn’t say I was scared looking down at that drop but it did start to feel like I was eye level with the Atlantis Hotel in front of me. Apparently you slide underneath a pool infested with sharks but it was so fast that I didn’t see anything at all never mind sharks.
The next most famous slide was “Poseidon’s Revenge”. In this case there was a weight limit which thankfully I exceeded and ever so slightly wished that I was under the limit because once you step on that trapdoor, there is no turning back, well actually I did turn back but was persuaded by a lifeguard that it was safe, so I got back in. The robotic voice counted down the final seconds of what felt like my life and the trapdoor opened. I shot down the tube probably breaking the speed of sound as I fell and within seconds it was over. I survived. But I would absolutely do it again.
The best experience of the entire trip to Dubai also happened at Atlantis Aquaventure as I got the opportunity to swim with a dolphin. To begin with, I had to put on a wetsuit and watch a training video and I was good to go. Getting in the water was incredibly exciting but also quite intense as I didn’t want to spook the dolphin. The dolphin was surprisingly smooth and we all got to stroke it before I was instructed to hold its fins as it swam across the pool with me. Finally, we got to pose for pictures with the dolphin. The Atlantis dolphin experience is certainly one of the best things I have ever done in my life. Add it to your bucket list.
Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark is one of the most incredible places on Earth and is definitely the most thrilling place to visit in Dubai. If you are ever in the City Of Gold be sure to visit for an unforgettable experience.
Dubai, UAE - August 2019
Dubai.
Inside the metropolis.
We all know that familiar feeling of stepping off the aeroplane and instantly having that sheet of hot air hit you right in the face as you take a sigh of relief and finally start to relax because you’re on holiday. Well picture that exact same sheet of hot air, times the heat by two and now picture it every time you leave any form of shelter. Yes, even bus stops. This is how you know you are in the City of Gold, Dubai.
The taxi ride from the airport gives you a great opportunity to admire the architecture and structure of Dubai and if you look carefully you can see the World’s Tallest Building the Burj Khalifa. You can see this architectural masterpiece from up to eight miles away.
The most recognisable thing about Dubai, other that the huge buildings, is the huge prices. It’s hard to buy a good meal without spending a huge amount of money and for that reason fast food became the saviour as the prices are definitely some of the most reasonable in Dubai.
One thing that tourists will immediately notice about the people of Dubai is how kind they all are. This is because Dubai’s future depends on tourism. As most people know, Dubai only exists because of oil but oil is limited and running out so tourism is the answer and for that reason being a tourist really enhances the experience because you are always smiled at no matter who you look at. When I was on a tour bus, I looked around and saw a man picking up litter in the streets and he immediately smiled at me, much unlike the awkward looks I have gotten from locals in various other places. A young man who looked like he was no older than 25 moved out of the way on the pavement insisting we go first, even though there was probably enough room for all of us to walk at the same time.
An attraction that you certainly won’t want to miss, is Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark. (There will be a completely separate article on Atlantis) but to summarise, it is like every waterpark you have ever been to times 10. It is enormous and full of fun for people of all ages.
The Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building and is definitely one of the most incredible pieces of architecture I’ve ever seen in my entire life. Going to the viewing platforms at the very top of the Burj Khalifa gives you a 360 degree view of Dubai. If you go in the evening then you will be able to see a gorgeous sunset when the sun has already set below you.
FACT: If you watch the sunset from the ground and enjoy it so much that you wish you could see it again, then guess what. You can. When the sun has set completely, go to the viewing deck inside the Burj Khalifa and admire it all over again.
When next to The Burj Khalifa, you will definitely see The Dubai Mall. Of course you will, you have to go inside it to get to The Burj Khalifa entrance. Here you will see the incredible Dubai Mall aquarium, I would recommend going inside because it was a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
One of the opportunities I had, came on a boat tour and the captain offered to let me have a go a driving the boat. This was much harder than I expected because when you are steering a boat, it is very different than driving any other vehicle as all of the turns you make are delayed by 30 seconds. You can’t turn immediately so you constantly need to think ahead.
On one of the days that we went on the tour bus, we went to a place in Dubai called Dubai Marina. This place was extremely strange as it was completely empty. Salford Quays was busier than Dubai Marina, even in the mall, there was nobody else around. Just stunning architecture. This gives you a chance to really take it all in without people in the way. It is also a chance to get some great pictures of buildings like we did.
An essential part of Dubai is going on the Desert Safari and after party. The safari was great but certainly isn’t one for the queasy as going up and down the sand dunes can be quite nauseating. One of the other passengers in the car had to be taken out and left at the base camp where she was taken care of. Just before the actual safari however, you’re taken to a quad bike area where you can ride around the desert within a range of course. It was an amazing moment and this was the second time I’d ridden a quad bike but first time in the desert and I definitely did not crash the quad bike and left completely unscathed. Of course I didn’t but it didn’t change the fact that it was still one of the best things I’ve done whilst travellin
After the safari, we were taken to a traditional desert camp. Here, there were complimentary camel rides or if you could be bothered forking out more Dirhams, there was an extended camel ride that took you further. We took the complimentary ride and went into the venue. This place had some brilliant acts including belly dancers and fire eaters. Personally, I don’t think it beats the Greek nightclub but it definitely comes close, the only difference between the two (apart from the small matter of being in the middle of a desert) is the lack of atmosphere in the Dubai desert camp. The acts tried getting the crowd engaged but they only cheered on command rather than when they felt like it. This didn’t take away from the impeccable talent that was performing. The food was very substantial and the arrangements were well organised - watch your plate though because there are lots of stray cats around! As we were leaving, all of the drivers started their engines and the place looked like the opening scene to an action movie because all of the drivers were driving very fast out of the desert. I could see that in Hollywood “Walkfkywalk - Escape From The Desert”. All in all, it was a great way to end the trip and I would definitely recommend going on a desert safari.
TRAVELLER’S TIPS
Always use regular taxis and if you’re offered anything other than a regular taxi then decline to avoid outrageous prices for a very minor upgrade. It may seem like a great idea to zoom around Dubai in a Tesla, that is until you see the price.
Buy a tour bus pass. We recommend City Sightseeing Dubai. With this, you get air conditioning even at the top of the bus. As well as this, you can have as many complimentary bottles of water as you’d like. This really helped out a lot.
Spend wisely because Dubai is VERY expensive and VERY tempting but think smart.
Use fast food restaurants when possible as this is the best prices you’re getting on food.
Overall, Dubai is easily one of the best cities I’ve ever visited but it is hard to decide which is better out if New York City or Dubai. Dubai has the nicest people but New York has more to do within walking distance. But many thanks to the people of Dubai for presenting me with first time ever opportunities. Keep watch for our next article on Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark.
Mount Vesuvius
The world’s most engaging and exciting history lesson.
If you are going to Italy and are situated anywhere near Naples, I strongly suggest booking a tour around Pompeii and then to the top of Mount Vesuvius. To this day (regardless of when you are reading) the Pompeii/Mount Vesuvius tour remains one of my favourite tours that I have been on.
Mount Vesuvius is famous for the destruction of Pompeii in the year 79 A.D. Upon arrival, I could already tell that this tour was going to be exciting, especially when I found out that a pizza lunch was included.
When I stepped foot in Pompeii, I felt like I had stepped back in time. The ruins are extremely shocking and it doesn’t sink in straight away just exactly what you are seeing. The most fascinating part of visiting Pompeii, is seeing the perfectly preserved bodies covered in an almost paper-mâché cover which is actually the ash from Vesuvius. Through this, you can see the people of Pompeii bracing themselves for the inevitable which as well as being truly incredible, is also very sad.
Walking down an old stone road gives you a feel for exactly what life would have been before the year 79 A.D with the structure like any other historic town.
As remarkable as Pompeii was, Vesuvius was just as brilliant. Climbing one of Europe’s highest ACTIVE volcanos was quite the walk but the views made it all worthwhile. Despite not erupting since during the Second World War, Vesuvius is still active and is now overdue on an eruption.
When walking up Vesuvius, many of the rocks that you find will be lava rocks that have solidified over time. I have one of these in my windowsill next to me as I write this. These rocks are everywhere and you don’t have to pay for them unlike with some people who try to sell them to you, simply decline and take a rock or two on your way up or down but I’m by no means telling you to deface the volcano.
It is hard to communicate how incredible the view from the top of Vesuvius is and the pictures hardly do it justice. It is up there as one of my favourite views from the places I have seen.
Iceland
An experience of a lifetime
As imposing as it is to see ‘The City That Never Sleeps’, something just as fascinating is to visit a country that almost never wakes up. Due to the fact that my sojourn was in October, I only saw a mere five hours of daylight each day leaving a whole nineteen hours in darkness which, understandably meant that it felt odd eating a cooked breakfast at what felt like midnight.
Iceland is ranked fifth on the global scale of World’s most expensive countries and just from the airport you could understand why. How does paying the equivalent of £20 for a box of ‘Quality Streets’ sound? Inconceivable, I know.
The first stop of the trip was to the world renowned ‘Blue Lagoon’ the flight journey wasn’t too enervating but a dip in the geothermal spa was certainly luxuriating, especially if you visit in the evening.
Another part of the trip that I really enjoyed, was the ‘Into The Glacier’ tour. Seeing inside the icy tunnels was really intriguing because you could see the ash from volcanic activity from hundreds of years ago, embedded into the ice that created large black lines throughout the glacier. The glacier itself was mesmerising but what was most compelling was that the ride up to the glacier because we were passengers in a retired missile truck.
That very night, I had a once in a lifetime experience, to witness the Northern Lights. The night began unevenly as a large truck pulled up outside of the hotel which excited me because we would be venturing out to some of the top spots to hunt for the Lights. About ten minutes into the journey however, we were informed that this truck wasn’t ours and the driver had picked up the wrong passengers. The night was salvaged however when a minibus arrived to transfer us onto a large coach.
We had been waiting around about three hours and there was no sign of the Northern Lights which left me doubtful that I’d see them at all. Then, just after we’d got back on the coach, we heard cheers coming from outside. We dashed out of the coach and there they were, painted across the sky in a chartreuse yellow. It was a truly remarkable sight.
Despite strongly disliking travelling anywhere by boat, whale watching was an interesting yet ironic adventure as we didn’t witness a single whale. What I did see for the first time, was a pod of dolphins (out of captivity). The way the moved in unison was truly wonderful, seeing them diving close to the boat was a fascinating experience.
All in all, Iceland is a marvellous country with some very nice people. Some of the worlds most incredible sights that is a must see for anyone.
Amsterdam
Tulips, Trams and Tobacco
If seeing New York inspired me, then imagine seeing the city which inspired New York. Fact, New York was originally named ‘New Amsterdam’.
This is quite an interesting fact to know before visiting Amsterdam because it really draws your attention to the architecture and layout of the streets which is structured very similarly to New York (apart from the trams that coincide with regular traffic). But New York statistics and similarities aside, Amsterdam is beautiful, a city of history and artwork, as you can imagine, it is littered with museums seventy five to be exact.
Regardless of whether the purpose of your visit to the Mokum is for a look around at the sites or a romantic getaway, one essential stop has to be ‘The Amsterdam Cheese Museum’. What sounds better than walking around a shop filled with cheese from all over the country? With free samples and cheese related facts, this one is an essential.
If reading ‘The diary of a young girl’ wasn’t upsetting enough, then going into the ‘Anne Frank Huis’ certainly is. Standing in the exact rooms of one of history’s best kept secrets is absolutely surreal and difficult to put into perspective. No photos are allowed to be taken beyond the bookcase. The original diary is also displayed inside the museum.
A notable part of Amsterdam, is its culture. Tobacco is a common smell when walking around the city some coffee shops even allow smoking indoors. But on the contrary, cycling is the most popular mode of transport with approximately more bicycles than people.
The Van Gogh museum showcases the marvellous creations of Vincent Van Gogh. One painting in particular that I found to be fascinating is the iconic ‘Sunflowers’ painting. It is simple yet beautiful. Even if you’re not a huge fan of art, this museum may still be of interest as it is a chance to learn the meaning behind some of the worlds most famous paintings.
When talking about food, Amsterdam is home to some of the best cafe’s and restaurants in Europe. One in particular is Lombardos who’s claim to fame is having ‘Amsterdam’s best burger’ and they aren’t bluffing. With delicious combinations from around the world, Lombardos certainly isn’t a restaurant to be missed. Another restaurant that I enjoyed was ‘Da Vier Pilaren’ a traditional Dutch crepe cafe serving some of the finest pancakes and crepes in Holland. I personally recommend the ‘Chocolate Nutella’.
Finally, a trip to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without a boat ride along the canals. If the facts about some of Amsterdam’s most famous monuments don’t take your interest, then the sights certainly will, seeing Amsterdam from the water really does show off its manmade beauty.