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Photo Essay: Colors of Israel
The flag may be blue and white but there are many more colors to be found in the land of milk of honey. Take a journey through the vibrant shades of Israel.
1) Food Market, Hatikva Neighbourhood, Tel Aviv
Look at the color of those pickled beets! Photo by gkamim
2) The Dead Sea
Aquamarine and a pastel pink are the colors of the world’s saltiest lake and lowest point on earth. Photo by bachmont
3) Israeli Salad
Cucumbers, tomatoes, onion and coriander. So simple. Photo by amacedo
4) Netanya Sunset
Stunning reds in the sky above Netanya. Photo by dynamon2001
5) Jerusalem Clothes Market
Wild colors on the jangley sarongs at this Jerusalem street bazaar. Photo by Ari Hahn
6) Shakshuka
Originating from Tunisia, you’ll find eggs, tomatoes, onions and spices in this popular breakfast dish. Photo by amacedo
7) Praying at the Wailing Wall, Old City, Jerusalem
Religious women cover their heads at the Wailing Wall or “Kotel”: the last remains of the Second temple constructed around 19 BCE by Herod the great and one of the most sacred sites in Judaism. Photo by kudumomo
Coastal Sky
White clouds against cobalt blue at Netanya beach during Fall. Photo by merezha
9) Dan Hotel, Tel Aviv
Built in 1953, the Dan Tel Aviv was the city’s first luxury hotel. The building’s rainbow design makes it a prominent seafront landmark. Photo by bmk12000
10) Crocs
Love them or hate them, the Crocs craze has taken off in Israel, bigtime. If you can’t beat them… Photo by ariwriter
11) Nachalat Binyamin Street Market, Tel Aviv
A beautiful arts and crafts market where local artists sell their wares. Photo by Alona Praslov
12) Box of Etrogs
Special citrus fruits used during the Jewish festival of Sukkot. Photo by yanec
13) Acre Beach
One of the oldest cities in the world, Acre was founded c. 1500 BCE. Photo by lapidim
14) Tel Aviv Sunrise
The sun rises over the urban metropolis of Tel Aviv. If you look closely you can spot the solar water heaters on the roofs. Photo by Exothermic
15) Poppy Field
A dog amongst the poppies at Hof HaSharon National Park. Photo by gkamin
16) Jaffa Bride
It can only be white for this beautiful bride snapped in the ancient port city of Jaffa. Photo by canonsnapper
17) The Red Sea, Eilat
Blue and green in the Red Sea, by the seaside town of Eilat. Photo by pazavi
18) Vintage Clothes Store, Tel Aviv
Citizens of Tel Aviv, or “Telavivis” have their fingers on the pulse when it comes to fashion. Photo by Jerrold
19) Fresh Fruit Juice
Freshly squeezed juice and pomegranates in Tel Aviv’s Carmel Market. Citrus fruits are still a major agricultural export of Israel. Photo by YaelBeeri
20) Retro Beach Scene
Israeli beach scene shot in 2008, but it could easily be the 1950’s. Photo by ‘m x b c h r
21) Florentine Street Art
The southern Tel Aviv neighbourhood of Florentin has a hip atmosphere inviting comparisons with New York’s SoHo and Lower East Side. Photo by Simply Boaz
22) Box Tower
The photographer said “something about it wanted to be photographed”. That’s as good a reason as any! Photo by fivethree
23) Masada
A tiny moon in the dawn sky over Masada. Photo by tunnelarmr
What were your impressions of Israel? Let me know by posting up your comments below.
If you liked this, you might also like: Photo Essay: 15 Spectacular New Zealand Landscapes
Main image: Dome of the Rock, Old City, Jerusalem by irose_iroared
19 Ways to Save Money on Your Next Family Vacation
Does the thought of your next family vacation bring you out in a sweat of budgeting anxiety?
Family vacations make memories that last a lifetime but they can also be budget busters.
Find out how you can create a great family vacation without dreading your next credit card bill.
PLANNING
The most obvious advice is to travel off season but that’s not possible if you have kids in school.
This makes planning the most important part of any vacation, a few simple steps can make the trip so much less expensive.
1) Use the airfare email alerts on flight comparison sites to get the first notification of a seat sale.
2) Sign up for email newsletters of your favourite hotels, airlines and tour companies as they offer deals for those who can book months in advance.
3) Pair up with another family and travel together using group rates. It’s also a great way to save on babysitting if one couple wants to have dinner alone.
4) Look for a local area “Entertainment Book” that offers 2-for-1 deals on hotels, restaurants and sights.
5) Don’t forget Facebook and Twitter. Airlines and hotels often have contests and discount codes for fans, if not ask for one.
Don’t spend money in Drive Thrus, bring road trip snacks from home. Photo by Kimberly Mahr
TRANSPORTATION
6) Book a car rental in advance. The budget rentals are the first to be sold out, if you book in advance you’re guaranteed you’ll get the best rate and you might even get upgraded for free.
7) Fly during the week. Business travelers and vacationers usually buy weekend tickets but if you can stay another day or two you’ll save hundreds on flights.
When gas prices are high consider the train, you won’t have the flexibility of your own car but you’ll have more space for the kids.
Save on gas by taking the train: great views, more space and fun. Photo by Lazy_Artist
ACCOMMODATION
9) Consider hostels, they now offer private rooms with ensuite bathrooms which are perfect for families. It’s common for breakfast to be included and they have large kitchens for self-catered meals.
10) Ask for a discount. Call the hotel directly and see if they have any discounts or ask if they’ll match the rate of a cheaper, nearby competitor.
11) Consider renting a house. Home exchanges and vacation apartments are a great way to save money. You’ll have more space and all the facilities you need.
Vacation homes can be nicer (and cheaper) than hotels. Photo by Emma.maria
EATING
Let’s face it, most kids don’t remember where they’ve eaten but you’ll remember how much you’ve spent. Thankfully it’s an easy expense to cut with a bit of preparation.
12) Pack road trip meals and snacks fom home in a cooler. If you need to take a break from driving stop at a roadside park and eat at a picnic table.
13) Rethink the mini bar. Many hotels offer mini refrigerators and sometimes microwaves. Before you book find out what’s available and stock up on drinks and snacks from the local supermarket.
14) Find the local park and plan a picnic. A few sandwiches and juice boxes at a waterfront park with a playground is perfect for kids and your budget.
Everyone love a picnic: fresh air and cheaper than eating out. Photo by Imayellowfellow
SIGHTSEEING
15) Check out the tourist bureau web site. Usually local deals and discounts are advertised on this site.
16) Use your AAA membership as well as others to look for deals on local attractions.
17) Find out if you can save money by purchasing tickets in advance or online. Many amusement parks and museums offer a discount for advance booking.
Don’t fall into the gift shop trap. Give your kids a budget and let them choose what to buy. Photo by Bitterlysweet
SHOPPING
Amusement parks can be a nightmare with kids wanting expensive souvenirs but you can get around the pricey junk you know they won’t play with after the first day:
18) Give your kids a small amount of money for souvenirs to manage on their own and to spend as they please.
19) Take a trip to the local discount store where you can find the same theme characters on clothing and toys.
What’s your favorite budget family travel tip? Share it in the comments below.
If you liked this, you might also like: The Ultimate Hotel Booking Guide: 62 Tips that will Save you Money.
Main image: Keeping things simple makes everyone happy. Photo by Chefdruck.
8 Most Inspiring American Speeches of All Time (and Where They Took Place)
Famous speeches can elevate a mere tourist destination into a place of historical significance. Take a trip to see where these iconic words were first uttered and relive some of the most inspirational moments in American history.
1) GETTYSBURG ADDRESS - Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
The three-day battle of Gettysburg effectively altered the course of the civil war for the Confederate Army with 160,000 soldiers fighting in this small town in Pennsylvania.
President Lincoln visited the site of the battle On November 19, 1863, to dedicate it as a National Cemetery.
His short, but powerful speech came to define the meaning of democracy: “Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”
There are several monuments worth seeing in Gettysburg commemorating the brave men who fought for their ideals in the battle.
Lincoln at Gettysburg
The words of the Gettysburg Address etched into the South Wall of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington
2) IS IT A CRIME FOR A CITIZEN OF THE UNITED STATES TO VOTE? - Susan B. Anthony, Canandaigua, New York
One of the original pioneers of women’s right to vote, Susan B. Anthony was arrested in1872 for illegally casting a vote in the presidential election.
As her trial approached, Anthony began an extensive lecture tour that ended in Canandaigua, New York where she was tried.
Her speech citing the constitution and a citizen’s right to vote was stirring, cementing the position of the suffrage movement.
The main Susan B. Anthony historical sites can be found in Rochester, where she lived.
3) HINDUISM AS RELIGION - Swami Vivekananda, Chicago, Illinois
Definitely not a name on most Americans lips, Swami Vivekanada is credited with introducing Hinduism to America.
When The Parliament of World Religions opened at the Art Institute of Chicago on September 11, 1893, Vivekanada received a standing ovation when he began with, “Sisters and brothers of America!”
He delivered an address that stressed the need for tolerance and respect for all religions.
The Parliament of World Religions has grown into an international event that promotes inter-religion dialogue.
Spend a day at the Chicago Art Institute, walk the same halls that Swami did, catch an exhibition or attend the next Parliament of World Religions, to be held in Brussels in 2014.
4) DAY OF INFAMY - Franklin D. Roosevelt, Washington, DC
Referred to as most significant war speech of the 20th century, Roosevelt responded to the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 8, 1941 by declaring war on Japan.
The nation reeled from the attack.
Despite the gravity of the event, Roosevelt managed to instill confidence through his words:
“No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory.”
5) ASK NOT WHAT AMERICA WILL DO FOR YOU - John F. Kennedy, Washington, DC
It was 1961. America had just elected its 35th President, John F. Kennedy.
After World War II and the Korean War, America’s psyche was drained. The country was waiting for an inspired leader, and that came in the form of President Kennedy.
He encouraged Americans to look forward to a brighter, unified future, summing up the meaning of his speech in one clear sentence:
“Can we forge against these enemies a grand and global alliance, North and South, East and West, that can assure a more fruitful life for all mankind?”
The best place to learn about President Kennedy is by taking a tour of the White House.
President John F. Kennedy’s most famous words etched in stone at his grave at Arlington National Cemetery. Photo by Jonathan Schilling
6) I HAVE A DREAM -Martin Luther King Jr.,Washington, DC
“I am happy to join with you today in what will go down in history as the greatest demonstration for freedom in the history of our nation.”
And it was.
Martin Luther King Jr.’s electrifying speech in August 1963 set the tone for the African American rights. Freedom marches sprung up all over the country, forcing the government to evaluate segregation and equality.
Visit the Lincoln Memorial in Washington and seek out the etched marble pedestal that commemorates the exact location of King’s speech.
Hundreds of thousands descended on Washington, D.C.’s, Lincoln Memorial on Aug. 28, 1963
7) TEAR DOWN THIS WALL - Ronald Reagan, Berlin, Germany
Ronald Reagan gave a rousing speech on June 12, 1987, commemorating the 750th anniversary of Berlin.
Reagan stood at the podium in front of Brandenburg Gate and challenged General Secretary, Mikhail Gorbachev to tear down the Berlin Wall as a symbol of Gorbachev’s desire to advance freedom in the Eastern Bloc.
“If you seek peace, if you seek prosperity for the Soviet Union and eastern Europe, if you seek liberalization, come here to this gate. Mr. Gorbachev, open this gate. Mr. Gorbachev, Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!”
Ronald Reagan speaking in front of the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall on June 12, 1987
8) A NEW BEGINNING - Barak Obama, Cairo, Egypt
A speech of this magnitude is timely for the current political situation in the Middle East.
President Obama spoke at Cairo University on June 4, 2009, calling for mutual relations and understanding between Muslims and the West.
This quote says it best:
“So long as our relationship is defined by our differences, we will empower those who sow hatred rather than peace… that can help all of our people achieve justice and prosperity. This cycle of suspicion and discord must end.”
What historical speeches inspire you to not only travel, but to dream bigger?
If you liked this, you might also like: 7 Most Fascinating Asian Battle Sites.
Main image: John and Jackie Kennedy campaigning in March 1960 by Jeff Dean.
2 Years Blogging: My 7 Links
Not all blog posts are created equal, take a look behind the scenes of the Tripbase blog to see which posts made your day, which ones bombed and which ones made your blood boil.
I’ve learned so much since my very first blog post back in April 2009.
I never really know if a post will take off or die a slow death, but I’m able to make a much more accurate guess.
But, like most bloggers, I realize I still have so much more to learn!
It’s this feeling of knowing but not knowing, along with some inspiration from a post I came across a while back, that gave me the idea to start the online blogging initiative: My 7 Links.
The idea is simple: bloggers publish 7 links from their blog to share lessons learned and create a bank of long but not forgotten blog posts that deserve to see the light of day again.
Here are my My 7 links! (bear in mind that I’m more of an Editor than a Writer these days so they’re not all written by me).
1) My Most Beautiful Post:
15 Most Magical Places in the World
Readers went nuts for these stunning photos – proof that images can make or break a blog post.
2) My Most Popular Post:
Everyone loves this warm and fuzzy feel-good post demonstrating that happiness is fundamentally what we all strive for.
3) My Most Controversial Post:
This post was met with a heated discussion and some punchy comments. Lessons learned: hate is a strong word and people are passionate about where they live.
4) My Most Helpful Post:
10 Best Places to Teach English Abroad
A post that brought aspiring English Teachers together seeking info and swapping stories -evidence that it’s possible to build a community around the right topic.
5) A Post Whose Success Surprised Me:
9 Most Mathematically Interesting Buildings in the World
This post went wild – who knew Math could be so fun?! Note to self: people like to learn.
6) A Post I Feel didn’t get the Attention it Deserved:
10 Secrets to Successful Sabbaticals
There’s some great advice in this post did it didn’t get much traction. At 1,248 words, it’s a bit of a beast. What I know now: that attention spans are short online.
7) The Post that I am Most Proud of:
25 Signs that You’re a True Citizen of the World
I love this post. It’s original, it was loads of fun to write and it got people talking. It also taught me that quizzes are still very much alive and well online!
ps. if you liked that one, you’ll love this one: 21 Signs You’re a Travel Addict.
Now comes the fun part. I’m nominating the following bloggers to share their wisdom by publishing their 7 links on their blogs:
Alex from The Virtual Wayfarer
Brendan from Endless Simmer
Regina from The Spain Scoop
Stephen from The Rat Race Trap
Lea from The Tripwolf Blog
What do you think of My 7 Links? Why are we so obsessed with happiness? Why is it un-cool to hate Delhi? Post up your comments below.
Main image: The Sun Sets on Château de Chillon by Pear Biter.
Warning: Don’t Make these 8 Money Mistakes When Traveling Abroad
You’ve been diligent about saving. You found the cheapest flight and hotel but the task of managing money is far from over. Don’t arrive home to find out your cheap trip ended up being not so cheap at all.
To stay on track be aware of these common money mistakes:
1) Not telling your bank about your trip
I have met so many people stranded without money because their bank was diligently avoiding fraud by freezing their account when they saw unusual activity.
I always call my bank and credit card company to let them know the dates I will be gone and where I will be.
Take it one step further: Get the direct line and email of one of your bank representatives. I landed in Cancun to find out that I had no access to my bank account. Thankfully when I called my bank representative who was able to activate the account on the spot.
Beautiful beaches but Cancun is no fun without cash. Photo by jthetsel
2) Using a small bank without international partnerships
Credit unions and small private banks are great until you try to get money out and the small town you are in doesn’t have a bank that can connect to yours.
Before you leave find out if your bank is connected to an international network.
Take it one step further: Bring debit cards from 2 banks, that way if one isn’t not recognized you have a second banking option.
3) Carrying Travelers Checks
I cannot tell you how many people I have met who have been saddled with traveler’s cheques they cannot use.
If you are not in a developed country you will have difficulty cashing them in and the fees are ludicrous.
4) Not checking into bank fees
I went to South East Asia and loved that I could just take money out whenever I wanted. When I returned home I found out my bank had charged me $5 for each withdrawal plus a currency conversion fee.
I had racked up another $100 in fees! So much for South East Asia being cheap. With a simple call to the bank I would have realized I should take out the maximum each time to minimize fees.
Take it one step further: Some banks have international agreements where you can use other ATMs for free. Find out if your bank has this agreement.
ATM fees aren’t the only thing that can be dizzying in Thailand
5) Using your credit cards at ATMs
If ATM cards are money grabbers it seems natural to want to use your credit card. Not so fast.
It is technically a cash advance. The fee is usually $2-5 so less than an ATM but there is a catch.
You don’t have a grace period to pay it back and highest interest rate kicks in the day after you take the money out, often at a much higher interest rate.
Get around it: if you carry no balance on your card you can take money out and then head to online banking to transfer the money, but if you are not diligent about this you will pay outrageous fees. You may also be able to prepay on your visa to avoid interest.
Using your credit card at ATMs can result in huge interest fees. Photo by Tim Moffatt.
6) Paying with your credit card
In many countries it seems smart to pay for large bills with Visa, but you need to find out first if the vendor charges a credit card fee.
When I was in Cusco, Peru I discovered there was a 6% credit card fee for hikes to Machu Picchu.
Fortunately the tour operator was honest and explained fees were lower at the ATMs. Unfortunately people buying $1000 tours were unknowingly spending $60 in credit card fees.
Happy to have saved a 6% credit card fee on my hike to Machu Picchu.
7) Charging your credit card in Dollars
It is very common to be asked if you want your credit card to be charged in dollars (dynamic currency conversion) or the local currency, especially at hotels or high-end restaurants.
Makes sense to be billed in dollars right? Wrong.
The credit card bill will arrive with a high rate of conversion and the vendor can choose whatever rate of conversion they want to use. On top of that your credit card can still charge its 1-3 percent foreign transaction fee.
Exchanging money at the airport
You arrive at your location excited, tired and just wanting to get into town.
Do not go to the money changer at the airport kiosk. They make their money by giving a very bad exchange rate or charging an exorbitant fee.
If you don’t have local currency ask where you can find an ATM. There is usually one around the departures section next to the restaurants.
Don’t get tricked into high fees and bad conversion rates at the airport! Photo by Alan Levine
Have you been stung by any of these money mistakes? Let me know in the comments.
If you liked this, you might also like: 6 Money Lessons I learned Whilst Traveling.
Main image: International money by epSos.de
8 Ancient Labyrinths to Quiet Your Mind
Labyrinths are ancient symbols found all over the world, linked to legend, religion or myth. Lose yourself in the path to the center and still your racing mind.
What the Math says
Although the word Labyrinth is often used synonymously with Maze – their mathematical roots are quite different.
Whilst a maze is multicursal – a complex branching puzzle with several paths and direction choices, a labyrinth is unicursal with just one non-branching path to the center.
A labyrinth, in contrast to a maze, is intended to be simple to follow.
Classical Seven Circuit Labyrinth found on Ancient Greek coins and tablets. Image by JamesJen.
Origins
According to Greek Mythology the very first Labyrinth was built by Daedalus for King Minos of Crete at Knossos to entrap the Minotaur (half man, half bull) that was later slaughtered by Theseus.
Symbolism
The symbolic meaning of labyrinths has changed over the course of history.
Pre-historic labyrinths were intended as traps for evil spirits whilst medieval versions represented the path to God.
Modern labyrinths are used to help reach a contemplative state and quiet the mind.
Labyrinths have recently found resurgence in popular culture, many of which are built in public gardens. Labyrinth at George Square Gardens, Edinburgh. Photo by Di Williams.
Whilst the labyrinth of Knossos is the stuff of legends, here is a list of real-like labyrinths that you can visit all over the world.
1) Karnak Temple Labyrinth Columns, Luxor, Egypt
One of the largest religion-based complexes ever built, this massive temple was built over a thirteen hundred year period beginning with Pharaoh Ramses II (1391-1351 BCE).
The labyrinths on the columns are from Egyptian mythology.
Part of a hall of pillars at the Karnak Temple. Photo by Blue_Sun
2) Labyrinth at Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu, India
This labyrinth is found within the Hoysaleswara Temple to Shiva completed in 1121 CE.
The labyrinth is laid out in the Chakra-vyuha style, which is common for Indian labyrinths.
This style uniquely features a spiral at the center and is named after a magical troop formation in the Mahabharata epic story.
The petroglyph shows the warrior Abhimanyu entering the labyrinth. Photo by Bilby.
3) Stone Labyrinths of Bolshoi Zayatsky Island, Arkhangelsk Oblast, Russia
Found in the White Sea, the Solovetsky Islands are covered with 35 ancient labyrinths (vavilons in the local dialect).
Dating back 2,000-3,000 years ago, the spiral labyrinths are made of local boulders and measure between six and 25.4 meters in diameter.
The presence of these labyrinths in a maritime setting suggests that they could have served as a model for complex fishing equipment.
Other theories include using the labyrinths for rituals to guide the dead to the underworld, substantiated by the excavations of bones at the site.
The Bolshoi Zayatsky Island contains a group of 13-14 stone labyrinths. Wikipedia.
4) Stone Labyrinth on Blå Jungfrun (Blue Virgin) Island, Sweden
This labyrinth is the biggest in Sweden and a popular tourist attraction.
It is unknown when this labyrinth was built, however its origins are most likely connected to the island’s importance to the fishing trade.
The island is a central part of Swedish folklore, seen as a magical and evil place. Photo by Mingusrude.
5) Labyrinth Rock Petroglyphs, Val Camonica, Italy
Dating back to the Iron Age (1st millennium BCE); this labyrinth is a part of a collection of 200,000-300,000 petroglyphs ranging from the Bronze age all the way to modern times.
Created by the Camunni people, most symbols here are representations of masculinity and superiority.
One of the largest collections of petroglyphs in the world, these stone carvings are a Unesco World Heritage Site.Wikimedia.
6) Great Labyrinth of Egypt, Hawara, Egypt
In 1889 an artificial slab of granite was excavated 90 kilometers south of Cairo, in the area where this labyrinth historically stood 2000 years ago.
New technologies in 2008 have allowed archaeologists to determine that this is in fact the labyrinth’s roof.
Scanning devices have proven that there is a vast array of chambers and walls underneath the initial granite slab, which means the Great Labyrinth of Egypt remains intact underground.
Artist’s interpretation of the Great Labyrinth of Egypt, buried under ground.
7) Cathedral of Our Lady of Chartres Labyrinth, Chartres, France
The spiritual labyrinth inside this Gothic cathedral, nicknamed The Road to Jerusalem, is what has drawn thousands of pilgrims and tourists alike for 800 years.
Completed in 1200, the labyrinth was created according to the geometry of the Holy circle.
A view of the interior of the Chartres Cathedral. Photo by jimforest
Labyrinth at Ulmekӓrr, Grebbestad, Sweden
This 1,500 year-old labyrinth at Ulmekӓrr is the best preserved in Sweden.
Swedish labyrinths are always close to the coastline which has led experts to believe that they have strong ties to the ancient fishing trade, perhaps to encourage a prosperous catch.
Enjoying the Labyrinth at Ulmekӓrr featured on many nature walks in the area. Photo by vastsverige.
Have you ever experienced the living history of visiting an ancient labyrinth? Post up your comments and let me know!
If you like this, you might also like: 9 Most Mathematically Interesting Buildings in the World.
Main image: Minotaur in Labyrinth in a Roman mosaic at Conímbriga, Portugal. Photo by Manuel Anastácio.
Tales of Extinction: 7 Animals You’ll NEVER See on Safari
Take a step back in time to discover some incredible African animals that lost out in the game of evolution.
Coming face to face with the Big Five on an African safari might be top of your to do list but will future generations be spotting entirely different animals?
What about the animals that we’ll never see?
Take a look at these incredible extinct creatures that live on only in their bones and our imagination.
1) QUAGGA
Zebras roam the plains of Africa today, but back in the 1800s another unusual looking animal could be found in parts of Africa.
The quagga – an extinct subspecies of the plains zebra – was hunted to extinction for its distinctive hide and meat.
A quagga was captured on camera at London Zoo in 1870 and it is thought that the last quagga died in captivity at Amsterdam Zoo in 1883.
The unusual name is said to be onomatopoeic, resembling the quagga’s call.
2) SABER-TOOTHED CAT
Any traveler planning to visit Africa on safari would hope to encounter a big cat, but around 10,000 years ago you might have come across a different kind of feline altogether.
This ferocious-looking big cat lived in Africa, as well as North America and Eurasia, and was named after its enormous upper fangs (maxillary canines).
Saber-toothed cats are thought to have died out because the large prey animals that they fed on became extinct.
Other theories for their extinction include climate change, disease and over-hunting by humans.
3) MEGALODON
Meaning ‘big tooth’, the Megalodon lived up to its name – fossil remains (which have been found all over the world) indicate that this giant beast reached a total length of over 16 meters, with teeth more than half a foot long.
Living from around 28 to 1.5 million years ago, it was the largest prehistoric shark in history.
Unlike other extinct species, no one knows why the Megalodon became extinct, although theories include global cooling and the disappearance of giant whales, which made up its diet.
Artistic impression of a Megalodon with two Eobalaenoptera whales by Karen Carr.
4) SUCHOMIMUS
Suchomimus or ‘crocodile mimic’ lived 112 million years ago during the Cretaceous period in Africa and was a Spinosaurid dinosaur.
Scientists think it might have grown to around 12 meters, almost as big as a Tyrannosaurus, and that it probably feasted on fish and meat.
5) MASTODON
Inhabiting Africa until around 11,000 years ago, the Mastodon was a huge tusked mammal whose oldest fossil was found in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Whilst it had a similar appearance to elephants and mammoths, the teeth of the Mastodon differed greatly from those of the elephant family, and their skulls were larger and flatter.
6) AUROCHS
The ancestor of domestic cattle, the aurochs inhabited North Africa (along with Europe and Asia) and became extinct in 1627.
Weighing up to 1,000 kilograms, the aurochs were far larger than domestic cattle.
Causes of the aurochs’ extinction included hunting, diminishing habitat due to farming and climate changes.
If you’re taking a trip to Stockholm, Sweden you can see the skull of the last recorded Aurochs, housed in Livrustkammaren (“Royal Armory”) museum.
Aurochs in a cave painting from Lascaux, France. Photo by Prof saxx
7) DODO
The dodo is one of the most well-known extinct animals, because of its demise being directly attributable to humans.
Living on the island of Mauritius, it has been extinct since the mid 1600s, caused by the wild animals that explorers bought onto the island, and due to humans themselves, who destroyed the forests where the birds lived.
Whilst early research tended to relate dodos to parrots, more recent studies have shown that they are more closely related to pigeons.
Do you have more animal extinction stories to share? Which of these animals would you most like to meet on a prehistoric safari? Post your comments below.
If you liked this, you might also like: 10 Evolution Exhibits that will Blow Your Mind.
Main image by ccsx.
How to Say “I’m Allergic to Peanuts” in 45 Languages
Don’t let your peanut allergy come between you and your dreams of world travel. Learn how to translate that crucial phrase, “I’m allergic to peanuts” and ensure a happy and healthy trip.
Peanut allergies are one of the most common food allergies — around 1% of the world’s population is affected.
Reactions range from itchy hives and digestive problems to more serious side-effects like difficulty breathing and even death.
The best defense is to avoid peanuts and foods cooked with peanut oil altogether.
Since peanuts feature in many different world cuisines, including African, Chinese, Indonesian, Thai, Vietnamese and Mexican—an allergy can put a serious cramp in the style of peanut-sensitive travel-lovers.
But as long as you’re vigilant about what you’re eating and notify locals of your allergy, peanut sensitivity doesn’t have to mean staying home.
Check out this list of 45 ways to say “I’m allergic to peanuts” and start planning your peanut-free trip.
1) Afrikaans
Ek is allergies vir grondboontjies.
2) Albanian
Unë jam alergjik ndaj kikirikë.
3) Arabic
لدي حساسية تجاه الفول السوداني (L’daya hasesseeya tuje haful hasu deni).
4) Armenian
Ես ալերգիկ եմ արախիս (Yes alergik yem arakhis).
5) Azerbaijani
I yer fındığı alerjim var.
6) Basque
Ni naz da kakahueteak alergikoak.
7) Belarussian
У мяне алергія на арахіc (U mianie alierhija na arachis).
Bulgarian
Аз съм алергичен къмфъстъци (Az sum alergichen kum fustutsi).
9) Catalan
Sóc lèrgic als cacauets.
10) Chinese
我对花生过敏 (Wǒ duì huāshēng guòmǐn).
11) Croatian
Ja sam alergičan na kikiriki.
12) Czech
Jsem alergický na arašídy.
13) Danish
Jeg er allergisk overfor jordnødder.
14) Dutch
Ik ben allergisch voor pindas.
15) Estonian
Olen allergiline pähklitele.
16) Finnish
Olen allerginen maapähkinöiden.
17) French
Je suis allergique aux arachides.
18) German
Ich bin allergisch gegen erdnüsse.
19) Greek
Έχω αλλεργία στα φιστίκια (Écho allergía sta fistíkia).
20) Haitian Creole
Mwen fè alèji ak pistach.
21) Hebrew
אני אלרגי לבוטנים (Ani alergi l’botnim).
22) Hindi
मैं मूँगफली से एलर्जी है (Maiṁ mūm gaphalī sē ēlarjī hai).
23) Hungarian
Én allergiás vagyok aföldimogyoró.
24) Icelandic
Eg er með ofnæmi fyrir hnetum.
25) Indonesian
Saya alergi terhadap kacang.
26) Italian
Sono allergico alle arachidi.
27) Japanese
私はピーナッツアレルギーです(Watashi wa pīnattsuarerugīdesu).
28) Korean
제가 땅콩 알러지가있어 (Jega ttangkong alleojiga iss-eo).
29) Latvian
Man ir alerģija pret zemesriekstiem.
30) Lithuanian
Aš esu alergiškas žemės riešutams.
31) Macedonian
Jас сум алергична на кикирики (Jas sum alergična na kikiriki).
32) Norwegian
Jeg er allergisk mot peanøtter.
33) Polish
Jestem uczulony na orzeszki ziemne.
34) Portuguese
Eu sou alérgica a amendoim.
35) Romanian
Eu sunt alergic la arahide.
36) Russian
У меня аллергия на арахис (U menya allergiya na arahis).
37) Serbian
Ја сам алергичан на кикирики (Ja sam alergičan na kikiriki).
38) Slovak
Som alergický na arašidy.
39) Spanish
Soy alérgico a los cacahuetes.
40) Swedish
Jag är allergisk mot jordnötter.
41) Thai
ฉันแพ้ถั่วลิสง (Chạn phæ thạ̀w lisng).
42) Turkish
I fıstık alerjim var.
43) Ukrainian
У мене алергія на арахіс (U mene alerhiya na arakhis).
44) Vietnamese
Em dị ứng với đậu phộng.
45) Welsh
Rydw i’n alergedd i gnau daear.
Beware of street vendors selling Pad Thai – delicious but peanut-y.
Tell them, “Chạn phæ thạ̀w lisng”!
BONUS TIP
If you know where you’re heading next, allergy translation cards can literally be a life-saver.
You specify the language and the allergy and receive a printed card to show at restaurants.
Do you know how to say “I’m allergic to peanuts” in more languages? What are your tips for traveling with food allergies? Let me know!
If you liked this, you might also like: 10 Menu Mistakes that will Crack You Up.
Main image: Peanuts in Crete by ArkanGL. Thai street vendor image by sflisler.
6 London Myths Exposed
London is certainly one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, attracting over 26 million visitors a year.
Yet, certain myths continue to persist about this timeless city that are either no longer true, or never were in the first place.
Here are 6 of the top myths about London and the truth behind the hype.
1) London is too expensive for the average person to visit
Yes, London is pricey. But just like New York, San Francisco, Berlin, and every other major city in the world, there is the ‘normal’ way to go, or the ‘cheap’ way to go.
Certainly, you’ll have to do your homework and search out specials before you go and whilst you are there.
Booking online can help you find a flight to London with accommodation for much, much cheaper than you would get separately.
Don’t forget that London buses go everywhere, so you won’t need to take the pricier Tube all the time.
And as with many major cities, there are certain days that museums are free or reduced.
London can be done on a budget as long as you take some time to plan. Photo by Trodel
2) It’s always cold, rainy and damp
Yes, the weather in London can be a bit dreary.
But the constant clouds, rain and snow is not the whole truth about London weather.
The reality is that London can and does have decent – though not extremely warm – weather.
I’ve been there at different points in the year; three weeks in June, a week in August and during Thanksgiving.
Yes, I kept a jacket on me for the nights, even in the summer months. But I’d say I saw more sunny days sitting in Hyde Park than during the same time of year in San Francisco.
Walking around the last week of November was comfortable in a moderately thick coat.
Don’t let the false idea that it’s constantly raining keep you away.
London has more sunny days than you may think: Bank Holiday in Trafalgar Square by Rev Stan
3) The people are standoffish and very “British”
Yes, British people are British. But I’ve found them to be super funny and often very open.
I wouldn’t go so far as to say they’ll run up to you with arms outstretched, but I find it’s generally untrue that the Brits, or Londoners, are standoffish.
The important thing to remember about travel in general is that we’re all a lot more alike that we think. Most people are going to be open and helpful to visitors.
Getting into conversations with people in pubs, who either grew up in London or have lived there for a long time, is a great way to see their animated discussions and sparkling wit.
You’ll more than likely end up doubled over laughing at some point.
4) Londoners only drink tea
You will have absolutely no problem finding coffee in London.
Actually, you may have more of an issue finding the traditional British black tea with cream outside of High Tea in Kensington Gardens and other top-end places throughout the city.
Try and take two steps without spotting a Costa, Caffe Nero, or everyone’s favorite worldwide chain, Starbucks.
Though the green logo was a welcome sight in 2002 when Starbucks was the only place I could get my soy latte, when I visited again in 2007 every coffee place provided all the accoutrements Americans are used to.
Coffee is just as important to Londoners – if not more so – than tea. Photo by Matt From London
5) The British have bad teeth
We may blame Austin Powers for making this notion popular, but the jokes about British teeth preceded the movie.
Contrary to the rumors, British teeth are fine, with people in London probably more concerned about their teeth than outside the city.
The Guardian asked the question, “Is there actual evidence that British teeth are worse than anyone else’s?” It’s interesting to read the answers from people both in the UK and the US.
As for this American, the teeth in London have never made me not want to smile.
6) British food is awful
Although this myth is on its death bed after a long, slow battle, some people still think British food is awful.
Here are the reasons this is wrong: London offers every type of world cuisine you could probably think of, and most ‘traditional’ pubs now serve either Thai or Indian curry rather than bangers and mash or fish in chips.
It’s also easy to get quick, healthy take-away in places such as Pret A Manger, Wagamama, Marks and Spencer, and Whole Foods.
Open air meat, fruit, and vegetable markets abound, and there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options throughout the city.
Borough Market is just one of London’s great open air food markets. Photo by Wolfiewolf
Did it rain when you visited London? What’s your position on the teeth? Let me know what you think below.
If you liked this, you might also like: 12 Tacky but Terrific Things to do in London.
Main image by Leonardo, easthastings.