festivals - Blogs - Tripatini
2024-03-28T17:50:55Z
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/feed/tag/festivals
Sweet Summertime in Stockholm
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/summer-stockholm-sweden-attractions-tourism-travel-festivals
2023-06-23T16:20:00.000Z
2023-06-23T16:20:00.000Z
María José
https://tripatini.com/members/MariaJose
<div><h6><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12025781098,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12025781098,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12025781098?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Riddarholmen_from_Stockholm_City_Hall_tower.jpg" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;">Benoit Derrier</span></a></em><a id="yui_3_3_0_1_1296731752390135" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/carlos_garulo/"></a></h6><p>Even more than many destinations, <strong>Scandinavia</strong> blossoms in summer, its warm, lively days stretching into long, luminous evenings. And at the centre of its lovely archipelago, nowhere more so that <strong>Sweden</strong>'s capital. A mix of traditional and modern, stately and avant garde, its streets and squares come alive as Stockholmers enthusiastically grasp with both hands their chance to enjoy the relatively brief Scandinavian summer - and take advantage of the long summer " white nights", when it doesn't start to get dark til around midnight. And the city offers visitors as well the chance to make the most of this blossoming as locals do, beyond the usual museums, landmarks, and other tourist sights. <br /> <br /> First of all, let's have a look at those sights, in this elegant, eminently liveable city made up of 14 islands (and gateway to a Baltic sea archipelago of 24,000 more), a masterful mix of the cutting edge and the traditional, and in recent years infused with new energy and a multicultural flavour which have brough some truly world-class features to town.<br /> </p><h6><a href="https://megustavolar.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/mgv/iStock-629833878-min-640x427.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://megustavolar.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/mgv/iStock-629833878-min-640x427.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="iStock-629833878-min-640x427.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="https://www.istockphoto.com/es/portfolio/LeoPatrizi?mediatype=photography" target="_blank">Leonardo Patrizi</a></em></span></h6><h6><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><br /> </em></span><span style="color:#ff0000;font-size:14pt;"><strong>The Lay of the Land</strong></span></h6><p>Two of those islands, <strong>Gamla Stan</strong> (top and above) and <strong>Riddarholmen</strong>, together make up Europe's largest and best preserved mediaeval quarter, home to narrow streets (including the narrowest of all, <strong>Marten Trotzig Gränd</strong>, a whopping 90 centimetres/35 inches wide). Knock around its little shops and have a bite in its lovely restaurants, such as the classic <strong><a href="http://www.femsmahus.se/en" target="_blank">Fem Små Hus</a></strong>. Catch the changing of the guard at the <strong>Royal Palace</strong>, one of the largest on the continent. Nearby is the austere yet impressive red-brick city hall, where all the <strong>Nobel Prizes</strong> but the peace prize are awarded each December.</p><p>Top spots not to miss, including more than 70 museums, with standouts such as the <strong><a href="https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/stockholm-sweden-marine-archaeology-vasa-museum" target="_blank">Vasamuseet</a></strong>, built around a restored 17th-century ship; the <strong><a href="https://nobelprizemuseum.se/en/" target="_blank">Nobelmuseet</a></strong>, covering the history of the Nobel Prizes and their recipients; the <a href="http://www.modernamuseet.se/en/stockholm/" target="_blank"><strong>Modern Art Museum</strong></a>, designed by my own country's <strong>Rafael Moneo</strong>, with a suitably impressive collection of national works with names including <strong>Picasso</strong>, <strong>Dalí</strong>, and <strong>Matisse</strong>; and <strong><a href="https://skansen.se/en/" target="_blank">Skansen</a></strong>, an absoluteley enchanting example - and the world's oldest - of an open-air ethnographic museum, where houses and shops from centuries past are brought together and brought to life with actors to show you how it was back in the day (here they throw in a zoo with Nordic critters). And of course let's not forget the fun, very interactive <strong><a href="https://abbathemuseum.com/en/" target="_blank">ABBA Museum</a></strong>!</p><p>To all that, of course, these days you have to add the Stockholm of the late <strong>Stieg Larsson</strong>, who wrote <strong><em>The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo</em></strong> and its sequels, much of it set in the working-class district of <strong>Södermalm</strong>, including <a href="http://www.kvarnen.com/en/" target="_blank"><strong>Kvarnen</strong></a>, a pub frequented by the series heroine <strong>Lisbeth Salander</strong>.The City Museum (also a very worthy visit in and of itself) <a href="http://www.visitsweden.com/sweden/Regions--Cities/Stockholm/Culture-in-Stockholm/The-Millennium-Tour/" target="_blank">actually organises tours</a> at this point, so have at it!</p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12125192093,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12125192093,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12125192093?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.visitstockholm.com/o/langholmen/" target="_blank">Visit Stockholm</a></em></span></p><h3><span style="color:#ff0000;font-size:14pt;"><strong><br /> Out on the Archipelago<br /> </strong></span></h3><p>Many of us like to stay at least somewhat active on holiday, as well as enjoy the outdoors and even try new things outside our routine lives. One of my two favourites is one of the archipelago's many islands, <strong><a href="https://www.visitstockholm.com/o/langholmen/" target="_blank">Långholmen</a></strong> above), an eleven-minute ferry ride from Gamla Stan, where from May through September you can rent a kayak to paddle around the calm waters off its leafy shores with great views back toward the old town. A swath of those shores is given over the the <strong>Långholmsbadet</strong>, a sandy beach quite popular with locals this time of year. The charming wooden buildings out here include spots like the 17th-century <strong><a href="http://www.storahenriksvik.se/" target="_blank">Stora Henriksvik</a></strong>, with a charming café, and the late-17th-century <strong>Mälarvarvet</strong> (Mälaren Yard), one of Stockholm’s oldest shipyards. It's a delight to stroll and bike through the bosky woods, but ironically, centuries ago this lush green island was once rocky and barren, and was used until 1974 as a prison - which these days is a popular hostel and includes a prison museum. <br /><br />Another popular summer playground is<strong> <a href="https://www.visitstockholm.com/o/brunnsviksbadet/" target="_blank">Brunnsviksbadet</a></strong>, a half hour train ride north of Gamla Stan, in the university area of <strong>Frescati Hage</strong>. This urban beach is another very popular cooling-off spot for Stockholmers, located within the sprawling <strong><a href="http://www.ekoparken.org/9engelska/englishstart.htm" target="_blank">Ekoparken</a></strong> (Royal National City Park) park. A true treat!</p><h6><a href="https://megustavolar.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/mgv/iStock-668077094-min-640x427.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://megustavolar.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/mgv/iStock-668077094-min-640x427.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="iStock-668077094-min-640x427.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><em><strong><span style="color:#000000;"><a class="photographer" style="color:#000000;" href="https://www.istockphoto.com/es/portfolio/fotoliza?mediatype=photography"><span style="font-size:8pt;">Yelizaveta Tomashevska</span></a></span></strong></em></h6><p><span style="color:#ff0000;font-size:14pt;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">A Picnic With a View</span></strong></span></p><p>A 25-minute train ride south of Gamla Stan, on the city's central, highly developed <strong>Södermalm </strong>island, <strong>Vita Bergen </strong>(aka<strong> Vitabergsparken</strong>, above) is a hilly park built in 1897 as a recreation area for factory workers and today is a beloved picnic spot. In addition, you can wander amidst a number of period buildings; maybe catch a performance at the open-air theatre; and enjoy great views out over the city thanks to the park's relatively elevated terrain. <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12026112082,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12026112082,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12026112082?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/f12sthlm/photos/pb.100071823724836.-2207520000./2941388849279876/?type=3" target="_blank">F12 Terrassen</a></em></span></p><h3><span style="color:#ff0000;font-size:14pt;"><strong><br /> At Night and During Festivals, It's Party Time!</strong></span></h3><p><span style="color:#000000;">After the sun goes down, Södermalm is also known for its lively bar scene and <strong>Stureplan</strong> for its big clubs showcasing some of Europe's hottest DJs. But in summer locals also take full advantage of the warm weather to flock in the evenings and nights to seasonal terraces and clubs like <strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/f12sthlm" target="_blank">F12 Terrassen</a></strong> (above).<br /> <br /> Another summertime favourite is various festivals. Our top three:</span><span style="color:#ff0000;"><a style="color:#ff0000;" href="https://www.stockholmpride.org/en/" target="_blank"><strong>Stockholm Pride</strong></a></span> (marking 25 years this year, and held 31 July-5 August). Attended by hundreds of thousands gay and straight alike, Sweden's (and indeed, Scandinavia's) biggest annual party. There's a big, colourful parade, of course, as well as a slew of late-night club parties, along with its ground zero, <strong>Pride Park</strong>, which takes over <strong>Östermalms IP</strong> (a 25-minute train ride north of Gamla Stan) for a rich programme of performances, food and drink, and general merriment.I have a weakness for movies (along with film-location travel - <a href="https://megustavolar.iberia.com/2017/01/sweden-stockholm-movies/" target="_blank">including right here in Stockholm</a>), and it seems many Stockholmers are big film buffs as well, judging from the popularity of this mid-August extravaganza <span style="color:#ff0000;"><a href="https://www.stockholmfilmfestival.se/english" target="_blank"><strong>Stockholm Film Festival Summer Cinema</strong></a></span>, now in its 38th year. The summertime edition, focussing on recent and past classics, is an open-air affair held in beautiful <strong>Rålambshovs Park</strong>, in the <strong>Marieberg </strong>neighbourhood of central Stockholm's<strong> Kungsholmen </strong>island. For more check out the <a href="https://www.visitstockholm.com/see-do/attractions/upcoming-events/" target="_blank">upcoming events page at VisitStockholm.com</a>. <span style="color:#000000;"><em><br /> </em></span><span class="smaller"><br /> <br /> And speaking of parties, see you here in May '24 when <strong>Eurovision</strong> returns to Stockholm thanks to singer <strong>Loreen</strong>'s blowout in <a href="https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/eurovision-2023-liverpool-united-kingdom-music-cultural-travel" target="_blank">Eurovision 2023</a> in <strong>Liverpool</strong>! <br /> </span></p><p> </p></div>
Welcome to Eurovision 2023 in Liverpool!
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/eurovision-2023-liverpool-united-kingdom-music-cultural-travel
2023-05-14T08:55:00.000Z
2023-05-14T08:55:00.000Z
David Paul Appell
https://tripatini.com/members/DavidPaulAppell16
<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}11075428071,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}11075428071,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="11075428071?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://eurovision.tv/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>Eurovision.tv</em></span></a></p>
<p><br /> It’s baaaack! The 67th edition of the world’s largest, longest, and perhaps most anticipated/beloved music competition, pulling in a worldwide television audience of some 160 million and inspiring tens of thousands of fans to travel <br /> <br /> On a personal note, although I haven't yet attended the <strong>Eurovision</strong> song contest in person, ever since I started traveling more extensively to <strong>Europe</strong> in 1977 – well before <strong><em>American Idol,</em></strong> <strong><em>The Voice</em></strong>, or <strong><em>The X Factor</em></strong> – it's always been a big deal for more than a few of my Old-World friends and acquaintances (not to mention the local media). I got to watch it several times surrounded by Europeans (most recently last night), and I must say, the enthusiasm generated by this reliably cheesy collection of crazy outfits, over-the-top antics, and sometimes downright goofy tunes (<a href="https://www.vulture.com/article/best-memorable-eurovision-performances.html">here's a 2020 piece I found on its most outrageous performances</a>) can be kind of endearing; <br /> <br /> It's this sense of kitsch and camp that has also earned it a huge following among much of Europe's LGBT+ community (then of course there was those times that queer artists nabbed the top prize, such as in 2014, when a bearded drag queen from <strong>Austria</strong>, <strong>Conchita Wurst</strong>, won for her operatic pop <a href="https://youtu.be/QRUIava4WRM">“<strong>Rise Like a Phoenix</strong>”</a>), and in 1998, when it went to <a href="https://youtu.be/Q8ZfreUQfvc">“<strong>Diva</strong>,”</a> sung in Hebrew by <strong>Israel</strong>’s transgender <strong>Dana International</strong> – who these days would no doubt be stoned by the loony Orthodox back home. (On the other hand, for a more cynical - and no doubt realistic - take on Eurovision and “the gays,” check out <a href="https://youtu.be/Wnjtzn7ZkCs">this recent video</a>).</p>
<p>At the same time, since the competition started in 1956, some memorable songs (and sometimes careers) have come out of Eurovision – perhaps my older favorites being the Spanish Basque group <a href="https://youtu.be/ub8SyRjX_eY" target="_blank"><strong>Mocedades</strong> with its luminous "<strong><em>Eres Tú</em></strong>" (1973)</a>; <a href="https://youtu.be/I8F5vKJcxCQ" target="_blank"><strong>ABBA</strong>’s insanely catchy, career-launching "<strong>Waterloo</strong>"</a> (1974); <a href="https://youtu.be/ZiCg5ZFKEhw" target="_blank"><em>"<strong>La La La</strong>"</em> by <strong>Spain</strong>’s <strong>Massiel</strong></a> (1968); <a href="https://youtu.be/T6ERpWOsXYs" target="_blank">"<strong><em>Un Banc, un Abre, une Rue</em></strong>" from <strong>Monaco</strong>’s <strong>Séverine</strong></a> (1971); and an Israeli pair, "<strong><a href="https://youtu.be/BX6-z-OOvQA" target="_blank">Hallelujah</a></strong>" (1979) and "<strong><a href="https://youtu.be/3ch5rEYB0-M" target="_blank">A-Ba-Ni-Bi</a></strong>" (1978). (Yes, Israel isn't Europe, but they’re here by virtue of being a member of the <strong>European Broadasting Union</strong>, and the Aussies were invited as of 2015 because they’re such Eurovision superfans – although sadly, their contract runs out after this year, so as of 2024 till further notice it’s catch you later, mates.)</p>
<p>And since the arrival of the 21st century - apart from fthe trend since 1999 of too many songs in English even from non-English-speaking countries - of course other countries from the east have been included (even a couple which are marginally, if at all, "European"), including <strong>Albania</strong>, <strong>Armenia</strong>, <strong>Azerbaijan</strong> (hmmm), <strong>Belarus</strong>, <strong>Bulgaria</strong>, <strong>Croatia</strong>, <strong>Czechia</strong>/<strong>Czech Republic</strong>, <strong>Estonia</strong>, <strong>Latvia</strong>, <strong>Lithuania</strong>, <strong>Moldova</strong>, <strong>Montenegro</strong>, <strong>North Macedonia</strong>, <strong>Russia</strong>, <strong>Serbia</strong>, <strong>Slovakia</strong>, <strong>Slovenia</strong>, <strong>Turkey</strong>, and <strong>Ukraine</strong>. Plus there’s Australia (yet not <strong>New Zealand</strong>) and Israel. A few of these have won, as well, including Azerbaijan, Estonia, Latvia, Russia, Serbia, and Ukraine (three times), although Russia got itself kicked out in 2021 because of its brutal invasion of Ukraine, Belarus also got the boot because of its support of Russia and because its own dictatorship was using the contest as a propaganda tool; and Turkey pulled out in 2013 and hasn’t yet returned (supposedly due to disagreement over a couple of rules) – though Turkish opposition presidential candidate <strong>Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu</strong> has said he’d like to change that if he winds. Then there are the "Big Five," which are always included because they foot much of the Eurovision bill every year: <strong>France</strong>, <strong>Germany</strong>, <strong>Italy</strong>, <strong>Spain</strong>, and the <strong>United Kingdom</strong> (sort of like the <strong>United Nations Security Council</strong>, I guess, but without the veto?). This year there were 37 contestants, with Bulgaria, Montenegro, and North Macedonia dropping out because they couldn’t afford participating due to the global energy crisis.</p>
<p>OK, background over, and on to last night’s “United by Music” extravaganza in <strong>Liverpool</strong>, which hosted because although Ukraine won with an unprecedently massive sympathy vote in <a href="https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/eurovision-2022-turin-italy-culture-music-travel?edited=1">2022</a>, the insecurity wrought by the war made it impossible to stage in <strong>Kyiv</strong>, and the <strong>UK</strong> came in second (on the other hand, ironic because Britain stupidly Brexited three years ago after a nasty, mendacious campaign essentially vilifying the rest of Europe). The city was festooned in yellow and blue and the broadcast itself was replete with Ukrainian images, themes, and music (including an opening montage, then epic arena rendition of last year’s winner <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/F1fl60ypdLs">"</a><a href="https://youtu.be/F1fl60ypdLs">Stefania</a><a href="https://youtu.be/F1fl60ypdLs">" </a></strong><a href="https://youtu.be/F1fl60ypdLs">by </a><strong><a href="https://youtu.be/F1fl60ypdLs"><strong>Kalush Orchestra</strong></a></strong>, as well as 2016 champ <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/B-rnM-MwRHY">Jamala</a></strong> and zanily over-the top drag contestant <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/hfjHJneVonE">Verka Serduchka</a></strong>, who placed second in 2007. For all that, though, the EBU slapped down <strong>Volodomyr Zelensky</strong>’s request to tape a message of thanks, deeming it too “political” and hence against the no-overt-politics rules. Now, given all the hoopla over Ukraine – and indeed, the very fact that the event couldn’t even be held there this year to begin with for criminally political reasons – I and many others think this was a mistake, but hey. <em>Slava Ukraïni</em> anyway!<br /> <br /> Other highlights included lightning cameos from <strong>Andrew Lloyd Webber</strong> and <strong>Charles</strong>, <strong>Camilla</strong>, and<strong> Kate Middleton</strong>; a bunch of Eurovisioners past including 2022 runner-up <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/ziG157jZ4-E">Sam Ryder’s latest single “Mountain”</a></strong> and a segment covering songs of famous Liverpuddlian acts such as <strong>Atomic Kitten</strong>, <strong>Dead or Alive</strong>, and <strong>John Lennon</strong>. And most movingly of all, there was a mass-wrap-up rendition, again in homage to Ukraine, of a moving 1945 show tune, “<strong>You’ll Never Walk Alone</strong>.” All that, and various other usual over-the-top shenanigans too numerous to enumerate. <br /> <br /> In the end it added up to a massive, truly staggering feat of musical and theatrical production. And now on to the lineup, starting with the winner:</p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BE2Fj0W4jP4" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Sweden: “Tattoo” - Loreen</strong></span><br /> <br /> Already heavily favored as the winner going in, singer, actress, and political activist <strong>Lorine Zineb Nora Talhaoui</strong> was born 40 years ago in <strong>Stockholm </strong>to Moroccan Berber immigrants (the kind of unfortunate folks who these days are being increasingly demonized even in liberal <strong>Scandinavia</strong>, including Sweden itself). She was already one of <strong>Sverige</strong>’s up-till-now six contest winners, for <a href="https://youtu.be/Pfo-8z86x80"> “<strong>Euphoria</strong>” in 2012</a>, which went on to become a worldwide hit. And with “Tattoo” she’s outdone herself. Performed on a fairly simple set – mostly sandwiched claustrophobically between a pair of square wedges emitting swirling imagery and mysterious symbols – and sporting swirling dreads and freaky-long, curvy, killer nails (<em>dayum!</em>) – she puts in a raw, plaintive, undeniably powerful pop performance (like “Euphoria,” in English), belting out the likes of “Violins playin’ and the angels cryin’, when the stars align I’ll be there” and “No, I don't care about the pain./I'll walk through fire and through rain/Just to get closer to you./You're stuck on me like a tattoo .” I really feel the emotion and pain in her delivery. You know, the Buddhists say that attachment is the main source of suffering. But that doesn’t make for dramatic art now, does it? In any case, “Tattoo” ended up inked into Eurovision history, tying Ireland for most contest wins; becoming the first female act to triumph twice; and of course outdoing Sweden’s number-four <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/4tD-ycN2uJQ">“Hold Me Closer” from Cornelia Jakobs</a></strong> last year.</p>
<p>And beyond that, here's a rundown of the two dozen finalists winnowed from the total field, which for the most part got here by winning votes in national finals in their respective countries (with some exceptions, such as the UK entry, chosen jointly by the <strong>BBC</strong> and the artist’s record label):</p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TI9rSDhXwyc" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Albania: “Duje” - Albina & Familja Kelmendi</strong></span></p>
<p>Exotically beautiful <strong>Albina Kelmendi</strong> was born in <strong>Kosovo</strong> (then part of Serbia) 25 years ago, and in this outing, dressed in an equally exotic, traditionally inspired costume, her powerful vocals are backed by five members of her <em>familja</em> (two sisters, a brother, even mom and dad!) in the dramatic “Love It.” Sung in Albanian (there are more than a few impenetrable languages across Europe, but this one’s right up there), it’s a hypnotizing, wonderfully Balkan-flavored ode to the importance of family in the face of a break-up: “Love it like you used to love it./That love, save it./Just like the life, you love it./Don’t throw stones at it, but just like you used to, love it. That love, keep it/Like the life you love, love it.” <strong><a href="https://eurovision.tv/country/albania">Shqipëri</a></strong> has definitely had its ups and (mostly) downs in the 19 years since it started competing, with the best result coming in 2012 with <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/QeBL2UHhyEc">Rona Nishliu’s power ballad “<em>Suus</em>”</a></strong>). But maybe “Duje” came across as a bit <em>too</em> exotic for the juries and call-ins to love, sadly placing 22nd out of 26 – its poorest ranking ever. I just don’’t know what else to say, except that they definitely deserved better. </p>
<p><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h0q7AkYk2hY" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Armenia: “Future Lover” - Brunette</strong></span><br /> <br /> All by her lonesome against against a stark black and white-lit backdrop interspersed with swirling psychedelic purples, at age 22 <strong>Elen Yeremyan</strong> from <strong>Yerevan</strong> also sports a wonderfully sultry, exotic look. And her haunting, wistful meditation is a ballad with a beat plus a rap interlude – in both English and a bit of Armenian (something we haven’t seen in all too long). For example: “I just wanna make art/Read books and just find someone/Who likes me enough to kiss my face./I wanna explore with him and visit old bookstores/And cute little things, like drink smoothies at near cafés.” Then the emotion swells, and “I’m a volcano that is going to explode in a sec./I’m so hypnotized by someone that I’ve never ever met.” Sweet, right? <a href="https://eurovision.tv/country/armenia">Armenia</a> has made 15 appearances here and reached the finals a dozen times, reaching its high-water mark, fourth place, in both 2008 (<a href="https://youtu.be/bridO-wD7c8">”<strong>Quélé Quélé</strong>” from <strong>Sirusha</strong></a>) and 2014 (<a href="https://youtu.be/oj0oOV-2fRQ"><strong>Aram MP3</strong>’s “<strong>Not Alone</strong>”</a>). So coming in 14th last night is of course a disappointment – but also at least an improvement on 20th for folk-popster <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/DAJ6vfmD_ic">Rosa Linn’s “Snap”</a></strong> last year (and despite that, Rosa has become something of a worldwide sensation since, as this broadcast noted). Hopefully Brunette will achieve similar success, and that the future love for Armenia’s hopeful in <strong>Stockholm</strong> will be grow by leaps and bounds.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GSoy_mJMlMY" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Australia: “Promise” - Voyager</strong></span></p>
<p>Whimsically, the Eurovision swan song for <strong>Oz</strong> for at least a while opens with gap-toothed lead singer <strong>Danny Estrin</strong> and his asymmetrically flowing locks at the wheel of an iconic vintage sports car, a 1988 <strong>Toyota MR2 AW11</strong>. Then this <strong>Perth</strong>-based, five-member, 24-year-old <a href="https://www.voyagerau.com/">“progressive metal” band</a> (but with a wider musical range than that implies) proceeds to deliver an energetic, kinda 80s-vibish, definitely un-metal-feeling rocker that starts out with the question “Have you ever done anything like this before?” and winds up with “Promise mе you'll hold me 'til I die./I'm by your side./Promisе me it's gonna, promise me it's gonna be all right.” And check out that wicked keytar (guitar-keyboard hybrid) solo, would you? Anyhoo…Australia’s high mark was sixth in 2016, with South Korean immigrant <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/5ymFX91HwM0">Dami Im’s performance of “Sound of Silence”</a></strong> (with apologies to <strong>Simon and Garfunkel</strong>) and this time it ended up in ninth (but at least a big jump up from 15th for last year’s moving yet morose <a href="https://youtu.be/wosfFz2FJPU">“<strong>Not the Same</strong>” from gay Asperger’s dude <strong>Sheldon Riley</strong></a>). It’s a damn shame the Aussies ended their run without a win, but we can always hope for a comeback, right?</p>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/8uk64V9h0Ko"><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8uk64V9h0Ko" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br /> </a> <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Austria: “Who the Hell Is Edgar?” - Teya & Salena</strong></span><br /> <br /> <strong><em>Österreich</em></strong> has taken the <em>torte</em> twice, in 1966 with the smooth, languid German-language classic <a href="https://youtu.be/sqasLQyydeU">“<strong><em>Merci Chérie</em></strong>” by <strong>Üdo Jürgens</strong></a> and most memorably with drag darling <a href="https://youtu.be/QRUIava4WRM">Conchita Wurst’s 2016 “Rise Like a Phoenix,”</a> and its latest effort – squarely in the Eurovision tradition of quirky – was first up last night, and kicked off with some classic Eurovision wackiness - albeit with definite musical chops. Black-clad Serbian-Austrian <strong>Teodora Špirić</strong>, 23, and white-wearing <strong>Selina-Maria Edbauer,</strong> 25, brought a driving beat to the likes of “There's a ghost in my body and he is a lyricist./It is <strong>Edgar Allan Poe</strong>, and I think he can't resist./Yeah, his brain is in my hand, and it's moving really fast.” Then later they sneak in a slam at the exploitation of songwriters by streaming platforms like <strong>Spotify</strong>, which pay them as little as US3 cents per stream: “Zero dot zero zero three./Give me two years, and your dinner will be free./Gas station champagne is on me.” (Oh, and fun fact: the “cheeky” chorus, “Poe, Poe, Poe, Poe, Poe, Poe," happens to also be German for “butt, butt, butt, butt, butt, butt.”) But this was probably too sardonic, sarcastic, and “meta” to go all the way, and one might be tempted to snark that the critical response to the song was “who the hell cares?” But to be fair, it did place in the upper half of the leaderboard, at 15th. And hey – we did get a pretty fun ride in the process – Poe, Poe, Poe!</p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/U1xD14IMKtg" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Belgium: “Because of You” - Gustaph</strong></span></p>
<p>I remember <a href="https://youtu.be/sB09advfF6E"><strong>Jérémie Makiese</strong>’s “Miss You”</a> last year (19th place) – smooth and soulful, but also kinda mournful. This time out they went in the opposite direction – positive and upbeat – with this also soulful dance number in English from <strong>Antwerp</strong>’s Flemish, very much gay <strong>Stef Caers</strong> (at age 43 a tad long in the tooth compared to the kids around him). In a white blazer, a big white hat, a pink button-down shirt, and puffy pink knickers, here he’s backed up by video images of drag queens, voguing, and a diversity of ages and genders (the two fierce black women back-up singers are a great funky touch, too). Snippets of that positivity: “I love myself much more than I did yesterday” (yay!) and “when the world got me going crazy, I carry on/'Cause I know I'm strong./When the world got me going crazy/I carry on./And it's all because of you, because of you.” You go, girl! Anyway, <strong>België</strong>/<strong>Belgique</strong> has nabbed the top prize just once, way back in 1986, thanks to <a href="https://youtu.be/HyHWn0ZUrYU"><strong>Sandra Kim</strong>’s peppy, melodic "<strong><em>J'aime la Vie,</em></strong>"</a> and while coming in a strong seventh, Gustaph didn’t break the long dry spell, it was a welcome tonic - <em>bedankt!</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><em><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hGuGfdEJ5Pw" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></em></p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Croatia: “Mama ŠČ!” - Let 3 </strong></span><br /> <br /> Call me a fuddy duddy, but witnessing these half dozen characters clear the first semifinal made me go, “WTF were the voters <em>thinking</em>?” In most cases I’m all for “alternative,” quirky, and even transgressive, but the strange, jarring performance of these aging punkers (speaking of long in the tooth, the two dudes fronting the group are 62 and 59) from <strong><a href="https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/rijeka-croatia-attractions-2020-european-capital-of-culture">Rijeka</a></strong> on the <strong>Dalmatian Coast</strong> just plain made my eyes and head hurt. Marching and gyrating, they’re decked out in military drag-meet-psychedelia along with ludicrous pasted-on mustaches, then strip down to their undies – all the while backed by a ginormous video screen blasting out a dizzyingly swirl of bizarre images. The song itself is anti-war and monotonously simple yet hard to describe – and the <strong>BBC</strong> did it better than I ever could: “imagine someone cut up segments of <strong>Queen</strong>’s ‘<strong>Bohemian Rhapsody</strong>,’ <strong>Los Del Rio</strong>’s ‘<strong>Macarena</strong>,’ <strong>Wagner</strong>’s <strong>The Ring Cycle</strong>, and the sound of a tractor engine, then reassembled them at random.” Representative lyrics, translated from the Croatian: “Mama bought a tractor,” “Mama kissed the moron,” and “That little psychopath/A little vile psychopath/Crocodile psychopath/Mama, I'm going to war”- this last line, they say, a slam at <strong>Vladimir Putin</strong>, and the tractor thang a dig at Belarus dictator <strong>Aleksandr Lukashenko</strong>, who once gave Vlad a tractor for his birthday. Whatever – it’s sure one helluva screeching 180-degree tractor-turn from last year’s sweet, intimate, English-language <a href="https://youtu.be/DFBwe2w0zO4">“<strong>Guilty Pleasure</strong>” from <strong>Mia Dimšić</strong></a> (which washed out in the semifinal), as well at its more conventional, melodic fourth-place finishers in <a href="https://youtu.be/Wzgful7Gl8U">’96 (<strong>Maja Blagdam</strong>, “<strong>Sveta Ljubav</strong>”)</a> and ’99 (<a href="https://youtu.be/x2oIkF3sQtE"><strong>Doris Dragovi</strong><strong>ć</strong>, “<strong>Maria Magdalena</strong>”</a>). And I can’t say I was surprised it continued Croatia’s unbroken losing streak in 27 tries, ending up at number 13.</p>
<p><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/49YiimKeyDI" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p>
<p><strong><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;">Cyprus: “Break a Broken Heart” - Andrew Lambrou</span></strong><br /> <br /> Back to ballads, smolderingly hunky 25-year-old Andrew (a few of my gay friends were swooning over him; Andy himself has remained discreet as to his own sexuality) is actually Australian though from a Greek Cypriot family; competed in the local <em>X Factor</em>; and last year even took part in the <strong>Oz</strong> competition to decide its Eurovision entry. He was approached by Greek Cypress to represent the country, and so here he was, in a simple black outfit with sleeveless shirt to show off his sleek guns, surrounded by a few special effects – dry-ice smoke across the stage floor and behind him, sheets of cascading water, followed by some fire. As for the song itself, it’s a good, solid ballad driven by his smooth, soulful vocals (check out those soaring high notes in the chorus!) and a dynamic beat, with lyrics like “The lights went out./I hit the ground./You didn't mind that I was bleeding out./You filled my life with minor songs./I loved you, but you loved to do me wrong./I miss your kiss, gasoline and a matchstick./Red lights, flashes, rising out of the ashes.” In recent years Cyprus has often made the final but finished fairly far down – with the notable second-place exception of Greek-Albanian <a href="https://youtu.be/vyDTbJ4wenY"><strong>Eleni Foureira</strong> channeling <strong>Beyoncé</strong> with “<em>Fuego</em>”</a> in 2018. This fine, polished effort, by contrast, broke into the leaderboard in spot number 12.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5nuypbLMfNQ" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Czechia/Czech Republic: “My Sister’s Crown” - Vesna</strong></span> <br /> <br /> Now I do have a soft spot for the Czechs, having lived in <strong>Prague</strong> for more than a year a good while back. That aside, <a href="https://eurovision.tv/country/czechia">this country</a>’s Eurovision track record has been pretty spotty – after debuting in 2007, it took itself out from 2009 till 2015 due to poor showings (including zero points in 2008) and a “meh” from the national public. Last night it was the turn of seven-year-old folk-pop sextet of pink-clad, long-braided young women (whip those braids, sistahs!) – two Czechs, a Bulgarian, a Ukrainian, a Slovak, and a Russian. They came at us with a catchy, driving number in English, Czech, Bulgarian, and Ukrainian about sisterhood and protesting gender inequality, with lines like “We are not your dolls” and “My sister’s crown/Don’t take it down/Nobody has right to do it/She’s beautiful and capable/She is her own queen/And she will prove it.” Energetic choreography; a definite updated East-European vibe; a touch of hip hop, and plenty of gurl-power attitude – and in the end Vesna came in a respectable tenth, much improving on last year’s techno <a href="https://youtu.be/EGRzSefqOm0">“<strong>Lights Off</strong>” from <strong>We Are Domi</strong></a> (22nd), but still several notches below sixth for <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/w0ZUuQe0shk">Mikoláš Josef’s jazzy “Lie to Me”</a></strong> in 2018.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/HsbC-OYMA3s"><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HsbC-OYMA3s" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></a> <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Estonia: “Bridges” - Alika</strong></span></p>
<p>This a country with a rich singing tradition – not too many years ago I had the great pleasure of attending its biannual, UNESCO World Heritage <strong>Estonian Song Festival</strong> in <strong>Tallinn</strong> – one of the world’s largest choral events – and it was a memorable experience indeed, beautifully showcasing national culture. Nonetheless, its record has been less than stellar since debuting at Eurovision in 1994 – though it has won once, in 2001 for the fun but I must say pretty un-Estonian disco number <a href="https://youtu.be/wri72BfnGh4">"<strong>Everybody</strong>" by <strong>Tanel Padar</strong> and <strong>Dave Benton</strong></a>. Last night it was the turn of attractive young <strong>Alika Milova</strong>, born 20 years ago in the Russian-majority city of <strong>Narva</strong>, clad in blue on a simple set, with just a self-playing piano alongside her. She brings quietly powerful vocals to a nice ballad with lyrics like “Now I’m heading home o solid ground./Realized that all the lies I’ve told myself have died” and a chorus that goes “There is always time to get back on track,/Tearing down the walls slowly every step./Now I see myself building up a world of bridges.” My take: pleasant but fairly forgettable – yet I was surprised to see it wasn’t a bridge too far after all, taking a darn respectable eighth place (compared to last year, when inexplicably American-Western-themed <a href="https://youtu.be/GdTpQmMem8U">“<strong>Hope</strong>” by handsome young <strong>Stefan</strong></a> came in 13th). Also, just my two cents, but since 1999 this country has barely fielded any entries except in English, and I wish they would give it a try again next year – or at the very least something evoking its rich culture a bit more. What do you say, <em>Eesti</em>? <br /> <br /> <br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l6rS8Dv5g-8" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Finland: “Cha Cha Cha” - Käärijä</strong> </span><br /> <br /> This intense blast of metal- techno fusion fits in nicely with <strong>Suomi</strong>’s hard rock/metal tradition in recent years, and in the semifinal was an audience favorite and pegged as a top contender to take it all. <strong>Käärijä</strong> (aka <strong>Jere Pöyhönen</strong>) is a 29-year-old hip hop/metal/electronica dude who cites the German metal/hard rock band <strong>Rammstein</strong> as a major influence and here he breaks out of a wooden crate and prances about the stage in a borderline-dorky bowl cut and a green, puffy, open-front bolero jacket (a slightly brave choice, since he’s got a wee bit of a tummy); the original video, by the way has him flinging himself around a boxing ring. It's basically about losing inhibitions during a night out drinking: “Wanna mess my head up and free my mind of fear like a cha cha cha cha cha cha cha” (even though the drink he uses to do it is a piña colada – which, dude, doesn’t seem very metal to me). Several other points: the second half turns more melodic and radio friendly; I really like that it’s sung in Finnish (unlike last year’s <a href="https://youtu.be/LSi9nfr65FE">“<strong>Jezebel</strong>” from <strong>The</strong> <strong>Rasmus</strong></a> as well as others in previous years); and throughout It's an adrenaline rush for sure. And though Käärijä didn’t join Finland’s only Eurovision winner, the seriously hardcore, even more out-there <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/gAh9NRGNhUU">Lordi with “Hard Rock Hallelujah”</a></strong> (2006), he did make it all the way to first runner-up – and for a hot minute even occupied the top slot. So for sure we haven’t heard the last from crazy ol’ Jere! <br /> <br /> <br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fOtQJ4o-HoA" width="750" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>France: “<em>Évidemment</em>” - La Zarra</strong> </span><br /> <br /> A Montreal-born, Paris-based chanteuse/songwriter of Moroccan descent, 35-year-old <strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/lazarramusique/">Fatima Zahra Hafdi</a></strong>, according the contest’s French team “combines the class and style of <strong>Audrey Hepburn</strong> and <strong>Marilyn Monroe</strong> with the sense of tragedy of <strong>Edith Piaf</strong>, the post-modern intoxication of <strong>Lady Gaga</strong>, the naked frankness of <strong>Barbara</strong> [a 1950s French cabaret star], and the fragility of <strong>Dalida</strong> [an Egyptian-born French star of the 1950s-80s].” Alrighty, then – well, I can sort of see all of that. Perched on a glowing pedestal against a simple black set with sweeping white lights, poured into a slinky, shimmery red-tinged black number with an insouciant little cocked <em>châpeau</em> that might not be too out of place at a slightly more chic version of the <strong>Ascot</strong> races, in this ballad-meets-disco torch song “Evidently,” La Zarra laments that how her body parts are no longer hers – not even her kidneys, <em>parbleu</em>! – and “In my hell garden, the plants are watered with dreams and tears.” Catchy and as you would expect <em>très elegant</em>, but despite being tipped as one of the top three favorites, <em>évidemment</em> it wasn’t enough to snare <a href="https://eurovision.tv/country/france">France</a> its first win since 1977, with <a href="https://youtu.be/CWfH4Gp8nGg">"<strong><em>L'Oiseau et l'Enfant</em></strong>," performed by <strong>Marie Myriam</strong></a>. And in fact I was almost shocked that she finished so far down, at 16 – worse even than last year, when the witchy Breton-language <a href="https://youtu.be/H1lcGXwOqJI">“<strong><em>Fulenn</em></strong>” from <strong>Alvan & Ahez</strong></a> racked up 24.</p>
<p><br /> <a href="https://youtu.be/dyGR4YWlPEs"><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dyGR4YWlPEs" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></a> <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Germany: “Blood and Glitter” - Lord of the Lost</strong></span><br /> <br /> Wow, another 180-degree turn from last year, in <a href="https://eurovision.tv/country/germany">Germany</a>’s case melodic, low-key <a href="https://youtu.be/2BYIou-oWXA">“<strong>Rockstars</strong>” from <strong>Malik Harris</strong></a>. In the finals thanks to Germany’s “Big Five” status, this guttural, occasionally screechy entry from <a href="https://lordofthelost.de/">a 16-year-old metal/glam quintet</a> out of <strong>Hamburg</strong> led by 43-year-old <strong>Chris “Lord” Harms</strong> is also reminiscent of Rammstein, and it’s apparently bidding to give Finland’s Käärijä a run for his hard-rockin’ money with a solid (if a bit generic number) and a theatrically flashy stage performance. But I’m not gonna lie – this kind of “sweet and bitter,” hard-driving stuff has never been my cup of tea, nor it seems has it for the most part been Eurovision’s (notwithstanding the 2021 win of <strong>Italy</strong>’s <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/RVH5dn1cxAQ">Måneskin with “Zitti e Buoni”</a></strong>). <strong>Deutschland</strong> has triumphed twice, in 1982 and 2010, and though despite its borderline inane lyrics “Blood and Glitter” still manages to be somewhat memorable. Even so, this year our metal <em>Freunden</em> continued the country’s long losing streak since <strong>Lena</strong>’s “<strong><em>Satellite</em></strong>” in 2010, ending up a lord of the lost at dead last. <em>Mehr Glück im nächsten Jahr</em> (better luck next year) – and <em>bitte</em>, try going back to the drawing board. 🙏</p>
<p><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Z3mIcCllJXY" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p>
<p><strong><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;">Israel: “Unicorn” - Noa Kirel</span></strong><br /> <br /> After failing to qualify for the final last year with <a href="https://youtu.be/XgXjPUsjx4Y"><strong>Michael Ben David</strong>’s fairly gay “I.M.,”</a> four-time winner <a href="https://eurovision.tv/country/israel">Israel</a> sends us a hot 22-year-old (one of the country’s biggest pop stars, and an army vet to boot), with major cheekbones, pouty lips, and another energetic piece of gurl-power pop. In front of a relatively simple square tunnel of lights, clad in shiny black pants and a white bustier and backed by the usual handful of dancers, Noa belts out lyrics like “I’m gonna stand here like a unicorn, out here on my own/I got the power of a unicorn./ Don’t you ever learn?/That I won’t look back/I won’t look down/I’m going up/You better turn around”; a touch of Hebrew is thrown in (“I’m not like anyone else against the world”) for good measure. Including a zippy little dance break and winding up amid a blast of fireworks at the end (the official music video on the other hand has her slinking across a red ceiling and in various other poses, but is relatively subdued by comparison), it was indeed a “phenom-phenom-phenom phenomenal” performance but was pitted against a lot of other strong females here tonight. Nonetheless, Noa shot past most of them, placing a strong third.</p>
<p><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/d6IiOSut_4M" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br /> <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Italy: “<em>Due Vite</em>” - Marco Mengoni</strong></span><br /> <br /> Speaking of phenom-phenomenons, handsome, bearded, 34-year-old <strong><a href="https://www.marcomengoni.it/it/">Marco</a></strong> became one in Italy after winning the national <em>X Factor</em> in 2009, and with this intense yet soulful, melodic pop ballad “<strong>Two Lives</strong>” he’s making his second Eurovision appearance a decade after <a href="https://youtu.be/S8oaxDV1q6o">his first, in <strong>Malmö</strong>, <strong>Sweden</strong></a>. – and this time surprised everyone by emerging during the flag of nations introduction with a gay pride flag along with the Italian – <em>bravo</em>! With passionate, virtuoso delivery, his poetic lyrics emote about the painful side of relationships with lines like “If this is the last song before the moon will explode/I will be there to tell you you're wrong, you're wrong, and you know it.” By the way, the above video – bleak and nearly monochromatic – was shot in the sand dunes of southern <strong>Sardinia </strong>(undoubtedly inspired by the line “And I still don't know your desert that well”.” three-time winner <strong><em>Italia</em></strong> has consistently finished fairly high in the past decade – including last year’s gorgeous, sixth-placing <a href="https://youtu.be/blEy4xHuMbY">“<strong><em>Brividi</em></strong>” from hunky duet <strong>Mahmood and Blanco</strong></a> (and a big favorite of mine on both musical and aesthetic grounds) – and this time around was no exception, coming in an even stronger fourth. <em>Ma bello!<br /> <br /> </em></p>
<p><em><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QsgouAEd34U" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></em></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><br /> Lithuania: "Stay" - Monika Linkytė</strong></span></p>
<p>Monika, 31, is Lithuanian-music-scene veteran of at least 15 years, including a platinum studio album, the local version of <em>The Voice</em>, various of its Eurovision tryouts, and Eurovision itself, bouncily belting out <a href="https://youtu.be/xtB_slM63JA">“This Time”</a> with <strong>Vaidas Baumila</strong>. Here, pretty and Baltically blonde (balanced out by her female backup vocalists, three out of four of whom are black), she donned an relatively simple orange frock and deployed her impressive set of pipes to deliver a beautiful, melodic torch song which begs – not, as you might assume, a lover to stay – but rather a plea for help and support from someone with long-term depression: “Just stay with me./My heart is bleeding./I need your healing./Wait for me./Well, it ain't easy/To love someone like me.” Meanwhile, above and behind them flashed pagan folkloric symbols, and most memorably the song is punctuated throughout with the catchy hook <em>čiūto tūto</em>, an incantation from old Lithuanians rituals. In the end, “Stay” had surprisingly staying power, taking 11th place, outdoing last year’s <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/BVqSTVJhD44">”Sentimental” from slinky, seductive Monica Liu</a> </strong>at 14th. That one, incidentally, was one of this country’s very few not sung in English, and I’d love to hear more of the national language in the future. <em>Pirmyn, Lietuva!</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SABOfYgGk8M" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Moldova: "<em>Soarele și Luna</em>" - Pasha Parfeni</strong></span><br /> <br /> Flanked by a pair of kettle drummers and dancers in antlers, in front of a vid screen featuring a huge pulsing sun, then moon – barechested, sporting an open, golden robe and a boy bun – this 36-year-old longtime veteran of the music biz (and also of Eurovision, in <a href="https://youtu.be/vIy0EtEeLEw">2012</a>) brings a primal intensity and energy to “The Sun and the Moon.” Sung in the national language Romanian, this classic case of traditional folk music and literary motifs meeting fast-paced electronica was composed jointly with his wife and expresses themes of love, devotion, and as Pasha said in an interview, how “the sun and the moon and the universe can align when you make the right decision.” For example: “I promised my bride a wedding under a starry sky./I gave to her on the seventh night, a ring with a gemstone. Sun and moon, they will hold us a weddin/Sun and moon, They will hold us, they will hold us a wedding.” They threw me a bit with the sudden appearance of a flute-playing dwarf in a bizarre headdress, but I later learned this supposedly represents a benign mythological character of some sort - alrighty then! In the end, the cosmic bodies aligned to yield a ranking of 18, lower than to <a href="https://eurovision.tv/country/moldova">Moldova</a>’s 2022 “folk-punk” entry <a href="https://youtu.be/C9RJQPZsj8E">“Trenulețul (A Little Train)”</a>, which despite (or perhaps because of?) its kookiness also made the final, and pulled into the station at seventh.<br /> <br /> <br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PUHSM_vTqTI" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Norway: “Queen of Kings,” - Alessandra</strong></span><br /> <br /> Born in Italy 23 years ago to an Italian dad and Norwegian mom, <strong>Alessandra Watle Mele</strong> rose to prominence in Norway’s edition of <strong><em>The Voice</em></strong>, and here, clad in a vaguely sci-fi-evocative, caped black bustier trimmed with gold and a spiky gold tiara she told an interviewer was actually inspired by <strong>England</strong>’s <strong>Queen Elizabeth I</strong> (the original video also has a vaguely fantasy/sci-fi vibe). The staging is relatively simple and not overproduced compared to other competitors – mesmerizing, strobing blue lights, for the most part – but no matter: the song is compelling, driving, and feels like an heroic, epic anthem of sorts, with shades of Nordic mythology, its lyrics alluding to her challenging yet empowering experiences as a bisexual woman with inspirational, eminently catchy lines such as “She, queen of the kings, runnin' so fast, beatin' the wind./Nothin' in this world could stop the spread of her wings./She, queen of the kings, broken her cage, threw out the keys./She will be the warrior of the north and southern seas.” I’m prone to earworms, and this is totally a candidate for me. Anyway, over the decades, <strong><a href="https://eurovision.tv/country/norway">Norge</a></strong> has been all over the map in Eurovision – finishing last various times but also thrice with the top prize, and last year’s goofy/creepy <a href="https://youtu.be/FJjo8s3fKUM">“Give That Wolf a Banana”</a> came in tenth. This time around the queen did them five better, being crowned in fifth place.</p>
<p><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SEgF1aP-U1o" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Poland: “Solo” - Blanka</strong></span></p>
<p><strong><em>Polska</em></strong> hasn’t been too successful since it began competing in 1994 – when <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/PL5rmmpiHp8">Edyta Górniak’s “<em>To Nie Ja!</em>"</a></strong> achieved the country’s high-water mark, coming in second. Last night against a video screen packed with tropical imagery – palm trees, beaches, and colorful birdies – comely 24-year-old <strong>Blanka Stajkow</strong> from <strong>West Pomerania</strong> treated us to a breezy, catchy, fun yet fairly generic and lightweight dance tune in English celebrating liberation from a bad relationship: “Now I’m better solo solo./I never let me down down down/and now I’m gonna show ya show ya/show you what it is you’re missing out.” In other words, better solo than settling for less. Cute but a bit perfunctory and underwhelming – I honestly can’t understand how it made the finals when several other deserving competitors lost out. I can’t say I’m surprised it came in at 19 on the leaderboard, (as compared to 2022’s 12th-place finalist, <a href="https://youtu.be/jRVDZ6446eM"><strong>Ochman</strong>’s pretty but somnolent ballad “<strong>River</strong>”</a>).</p>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/HYfkxX4PFyw"><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HYfkxX4PFyw" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></a> <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Portugal:</strong> <strong>“<em>Ai Coração</em>” - Mimicat</strong></span></p>
<p>With something of a zippy, even downright fiery cabaret/vaudeville feel, pop/soul chanteuse (and former realto)<strong> Marisa Isabel Lopes Mena</strong>, 39, came at us with a fluff of curly blond hair, a feathery, thigh-length, ruffled red frock, four also red-clad, handclapping back-up dancers, and a backdrop of flashing lights to lustily belt out “Oh Heart.” It’s basically about being in love and in a whirl, even slightly unhinged: “I feel dizzy, every day worse./I don't know things that I used to./Pulsations went up a thousand./I feel crazy, totally senile. Oh heart, tell me if you are mine!” Totally <em>sui generis</em> in this year’s lineup, “<em>Ai Coração</em>” is quite a fun, breezy, playful change of pace from the ballads – also always in Portuguese – we’ve become used to seeing from <a href="https://eurovision.tv/country/portugal">Portugal</a>, such as last year’s gentle, wistful “<em>Saudade, Saudade</em>” from <strong>Maro</strong> (came in ninth) and <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/Qotooj7ODCM">Salvador Sobral’s "<em>Amar Pelos Dois</em>,"</a></strong> (the country’s sole win so far, in 2017). However, this still wasn’t destined to totally capture the hearts of the public, with a a pretty near-the-bottom finish, Maybe they should go back to ballads? (And fun fact: at some point somebody figured out that there’s a “curse of the second song”: the second song performed at the final – which tonight was this one – has never grabbed the top prize. #Justsayin’.)</p>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/gPRfg9wzbpw"><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gPRfg9wzbpw" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></a> <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Serbia: “<em>Samo mi se Spava</em>" - Luke Black</strong></span><br /> <br /> Clean-cut and amazingly boyish-looking for 31, <strong>Luka Ivanović</strong> has made avant-garde “experimental pop” his lane, and “I’m Just Sleepy” cruises along it admirably, a musical performance piece with smooth, sometimes whispery vocals, in a mix of Serbian and English, and a darkly hypnotic, pulsing, electronica vibe and a sci-fi-videogame feel. There’s of course lots of talk of snoozing: “I just wanna sleep forever (I'm s-sleeping)./I like it better when I dream./I just wanna close my eyes (I'm s-sleeping)/And just get it over with./I wanna sleep forever (I'm s-sleeping)/While the world burns (This ends now).” The dreamlike choreography, meanwhile, starts out with Luke stretched out in a futuristic, translucent, cocoon-like bed and proceeding to yank out hoses attached to gas masked dancers, presumably pulling them out of their <strong><em>Matrix</em></strong>-like existence. A commentary on apocalyptic times, perhaps. Not unlike last year’s fifth-place <a href="https://eurovision.tv/country/serbia">Serbia</a> entry, <a href="https://youtu.be/nBtQj1MfNYA">“<strong><em>In Corpore Sana</em></strong>” from <strong>Konstrakta</strong></a> (Luke’s aunt, imagine that), this one’s very quirky; has a social message; and is just quite different from the rest of the lineup. Nonetheless, it failed to join geeky-cool <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/FSueQN1QvV4">Marija Šerifović’s “<em>Molitva</em><em>,</em>”</a></strong> which won in 2007 at Serbia’s very first appearance, and slept in at number 24. Maybe <em>too</em> experimental?</p>
<p><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3LXlPviGiWc" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Slovenia: “Carpe Diem” by Joker Out</strong></span><br /> <br /> <strong><a href="https://eurovision.tv/country/slovenia">Slovenija</a></strong>’s first time back in the finals in four years comes courtesy of <a href="https://jokeroutband.com/">a seven-year-old quintet</a> of sweet-looking, photogenic twentysomethings specializing in what they call “shagadelic” or “softboi” rock. And here the bois – decked out in retro-groovy threads – serve up a polished bit of melodic pop-rock in Slovenian (though its name is Latin for “seize the day”) exuberantly expressing the joy of music: “We'll be dancing all night long./We'll love each other and play/As if there was no tomorrow (There was no tomorrow)./We won't count the hours until dawn comes./We'll jump across the mountains/To be embraced by the sky.” Very much a fun, feel-good experience! In its 28 years competing, this country’s highest placement in the finals was seventh, both in 1995 and 2002, and Carpe Diem ended up seizing 21st place.</p>
<p><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yxuO0qZITko" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"> <strong>Spain: “<em>Eaea</em>” - Paloma Blanca</strong></span><br /> <br /> This powerful “electro flamenco” number – from a 33-year-old born in <strong>Valencian Community</strong> of twice Eurovision winner Spain -–in addition to being poetic, passionate, and powerful is without a doubt one of this country’s most “Spanish” entries in its 61 years of participation, evoking the traditional, Roma-influenced culture of <strong>Andalusia</strong> with its plaintive tonalities, clapping, and more. This is a kind of lullaby, with <em>eaea</em> is a word used to soothe children and help them go to sleep; the lyrics start “Hey, come, my child, come sleep by my side. May my bosom provide you with refuge, refuge from your sorrows.” And later, the haunting image of “My child, when I die, may they bury me in the moon, and I hope to watch over you every night.” The intimate yet dramatic – and exquisitely choreographed – the staging starts with Blanca in red-leather top and white pants, first outlined in silhouette against ghostly, moonlike lighted background and then surrounded (along with her five backup dancers) with hanging strands of red fabric reminiscent of the shawls sometimes worn over traditional Andalusian dresses. In the run-up to the competition, some observers wondered if this song is a little too “particular” and “regional” to appeal to a Europe-wide jury and audience (even though I found no similar doubts expressed about competitors influenced by Slavic folk traditions). Still, it obviously hit a chord, coming in at number 17 (a comedown from last year’s third runner up, <a href="https://youtu.be/jSQYTt4xg3I">“<em>SloMo</em>” by sexy, Cuban-born <strong>Chanel</strong></a>. No doubt one of the more "commercial" runners-up at <strong><a href="https://www.rtve.es/television/eurovision/benidorm-fest/" target="_blank">Benidorm Fest</a> - such as "<em><a href="https://youtu.be/1j_dSNUGU-U" target="_blank">Nochenetera</a></em></strong>" - would've done better. <br /> <br /> <a href="https://youtu.be/LWiW2GDNZ0s"><br /> <br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l4NDErv49mk" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></a> <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Switzerland: “Watergun” - Remo Forrer</strong></span></p>
<p>This cute, fresh faced 21-year-old sporting-goods salesman from German-speaking <strong>St. Gallen</strong> canton triumphed at the Swiss edition of <strong><em>The Voice </em></strong>three years ago, and here it seems like he’s got a bit of an <strong>Ed Sheeran</strong> thing going on. Simply clad in black, against an equally simple backdrop of lights and flanked with the inevitable dances, in his deep, resonant voice Remo smoothly and earnestly croons a haunting, melancholy, moving piano ballad (in English) that’s a plea for peace, centering on two young men who as boys would play at war but then are confronted with the grim reality of real war: “No, no, I don't wanna be a soldier, soldier./I don't wanna have to play with real blood./'Cause we ain't playin' now, can't turn and run, no water guns – just body bags that we've become.” A quiet but dramatic standout amid a field of big and bombastic, it was written before the Ukraine war but is certainly especially resonant given everything that’s transpired there in the past year and a quarter – plus of course all the other tragic and troubling conflict in the world today in places like <strong>Ethiopia</strong>, <strong>Myanmar</strong>, and <strong>Yemen</strong>. We can all identify, I think. But at the end of the battle, “Watergun” ended up not adding a third Eurovision win for <a href="https://eurovision.tv/country/switzerland">Switzerland</a>, squirting into number 20 (compared to 17 in last year’s final for <a href="https://youtu.be/hq2HCmHv5p4">“<strong>Boys Do Cry</strong>,” another ballad from another cute Swiss boy, <strong>Marius Bear</strong></a>).<br /> <br /> <a href="https://youtu.be/I2oqDpefJ1s"><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/I2oqDpefJ1s" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></a></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Ukraine: “Heart of Steel” - TVORCHI</strong></span></p>
<p>An automatic finalist due to its win last year, the three-time winner this time around <strong><em><a href="https://eurovision.tv/country/ukraine">Ukraina</a></em></strong> sent a very different act from 2022’s folk-meets-hio-hop winner <strong>Kalush Orchestra</strong>: an electronic duo composed of 27-year-old keyboard/producer <strong>Andrii Hutsuliak</strong> and 25-year-old, <strong>Nigeria</strong>-born vocalist <strong>Jimoh Augustus Kehinde</strong>. The title of their R&B-meets-techno number – mostly in English, with a smattering of Ukrainian thrown in – was inspired by Russia’s brutal 2022 siege of the <strong>Azovstal Iron and Steel Works</strong> in <strong>Mariupol</strong>, in which outnumbered defenders held out against greatly superior numbers, the song is about (according to Tvorchi) about not giving up in the face of adversity, as well as the threat of nuclear warfare (honestly, I don’t really see it, except for the bit in Ukrainian which goes “Despite the pain/I keep on fighting/The world is burning, and you act”). Backed by video screens flashing nuclear symbols as well as a pair of masked dancers, these guys turned in a performance that was solid (even though there was nothing particularly “Ukrainian” about it and ended up in sixth place, due I’m sure in large part to continuing sympathy over the war.</p>
<p><br /> <a href="https://youtu.be/tvJEE2ryCRQ"><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tvJEE2ryCRQ" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></a> <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>United Kingdom: “I Wrote a Song” - Mae Muller</strong></span><br /> <br /> Rounding up the alphabet as well as last night’s lineup, <a href="https://www.maemuller.com/">a 26-year-old north Londoner</a> with sass and attitude brought a brisk, bopping <strong>Dua Lipa</strong>/<strong>Gwen Stefani</strong>-flavored bit of synth-pop business, With caricatures of her face splitting apart on the screen behind her. It’s about channeling anger at a cheating ex, exploring themes of self worth, admirable restraint, and gurl power. <em>Très</em> <strong>Taylor Swift</strong>, no? Here’s a key sample: “I got so mad, was gonna cuss you out outside your house for everyone to see. Wanted to trash your Benz, tell all your friends how cruel you were to me. Instead, I wrote a song…” The spoken-word interlude I could’ve done without – seemed a bit dated – but hey, overall I think most of us can amply relate to Mae’s sentiments here. Of course, this one doesn’t quite bring the uplift of last year’s second-place <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RZ0hqX_92zI">“<strong>Spaceman</strong>” from <strong>Sam Ryder</strong></a>, but on the other hand it does “take the high road,” as Mae put it on <strong>Tik Tok</strong>, and make lemonade from lemons after betrayal and heartache. It’s certainly catchy and club-ready, but while I liked, I also didn’t think it would stand out all that much among similar competitors. And maybe a little bit too negative and angry? Whatever, I that’s the way things played out – in the end “I Wrote a Song” got written off, and even lower than I expected: third to last.</p>
<p><br /> And if you care to read my review of Eurovision 2022 <a href="https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/eurovision-2022-turin-italy-culture-music-travel?edited=1">click here</a>. Other previous reviews: <a href="https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/a-review-of-eurovision-2012-and-winner">2012</a> and <a href="https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/eurovision-2013-a-review">2013</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p></div>
The 3 European Capitals of Culture for 2023: Elefsina, Timişoara & Veszprém
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/european-capitals-of-culture-2023-elefsina-timisoara-veszprem
2023-01-31T06:15:00.000Z
2023-01-31T06:15:00.000Z
José Balido
https://tripatini.com/members/JoseBalido
<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}10951604873,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}10951604873,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="10951604873?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="https://www.istockphoto.com/es/foto/vista-de-eleusis-de-la-zona-arqueol%C3%B3gica-de-eleusis-gm948122704-258862144?phrase=elefsina" target="_blank">Charalambos Andronos</a>/<a href="https://timisoara2023.eu/en/visit-timi%C8%99oara/" target="_blank">Timişoara 2023</a>/<a href="https://www.istockphoto.com/es/foto/veszpr%C3%A9m-hungr%C3%ADa-incre%C3%ADble-vista-a%C3%A9rea-nevada-del-centro-de-veszpr%C3%A9m-y-el-distrito-gm1297768904-390808152?phrase=veszprem" target="_blank">Janos Illesi</a></em></span></p>
<p><br />
Annually since 1985, the cultural poobahs of the <strong>European Union</strong> have designated one or more of the continent's cities (and as of last year it's been three), as <strong>Capitals of Culture</strong>, focusing on their own cultural offerings and allowing them to organize a series of wider cultural events (many with a strong pan-European dimension) - which bring in considerable additional revenue; foster urban renewal; and raise their international profiles and images. Since the first one, <strong>Athens</strong>, (then Greek miister of culture Melina Mercouri was a driving force behind the program) most of the better known cities have already had their years in the sun, and recent <strong>ECoC</strong>s have been lesser known. That's certainly true of this year's trio, launching their year in the sun in the coming week or so. Here's a quick look:</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ChEuHULaAUs" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></strong></p>
<p><strong><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:14pt;"> <a href="https://2023eleusis.eu/en/">Elefsina, Greece</a></span></strong><br />
<br />
<br />
Located on the <strong>Thriassian Plain</strong> just a 20-minute drive along the <strong>Saronic Gulf</strong> coast from <strong>Athens</strong>, this city of around 30,000 is now largely industrialised (home for example to the country’s biggest oil refinery) but its roots reach back to ancient <strong>Hellas</strong>. Founded in the 2nd millennium BCE, it became one of the five sacred cities of ancient Greece; was the birthplace of the 5th-century BCE tragic playwright <strong>Aeschylus</strong>; and the site of the <strong>Eleusinian Mysteries</strong>, initiations held annually for the cult of <strong>Demeter</strong> and <strong>Persephone</strong> and considered the most famous of the Hellenic world’s secret religious rites. These days <strong>Elefsina</strong> stages the venerable annual <strong><a href="https://aisxylia.gr/to-festival/">Aeschylia Festival</a></strong>, held from late August through September with stage productions, art exhibitions and installations, concerts, and dance events.<br />
<br />
When the city was chosen as a 2021 ECoC – delayed till this year due to the pandemic – it was the smallest and oldest in the programme’s history, and despite not being a picture postcard little Greek city but rather on the gritty side – described as “the unpainted face of Greece: authentic, scarred, silent, dignified”. Beyond that, though, there are true historical gems to be found here, such as the ruins of the site where the Mysteries took place, along the foot of the hill of the ancient acropolis and including a key cave called the <strong>Ploutonion</strong>, as well as the nearby archaeological museum. <br />
<br />
And with this firm cultural and historical base to build upon, Elefsina on 4 February is about to launch its Capital of Culture programme, “Mysteries of Transition”, with three overarching themes: “People/Society”, “Environment”, and Labour”. Throughout the course of 2023, more than 30 venues will host exhibitions along with performances in 17 art forms from 192 Greek and 137 international artists. One of the first exhibitions, at an old olive mill turned centre for the arts is dedicated to Greece's former culture minister <strong>Melina Mercouri</strong> – who came up with the idea of the ECoC programme in 1985 and helped bring it to fruition – as well as and her French counterpart, <strong>Jacques Lang</strong>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kjYn7ISnIzI" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://timisoara2023.eu/en/">Timişoara, Romania</a></strong></span></p>
<p><br />
A six-hour-40-minute drive or three hour flight from <strong>Bucharest</strong>, the country’s third largest city, in the central west has some 306,000 and traces its origins to a settlement of the Indo-European Bronze-Age Dacian people who inhabited this area in the 8th-7th centuries BCE – although as it was founded in 1315 on the site of an ancient Roman fortress and surrounding swampland. Much more recently, this was the place where the popular revolt which eventually toppled the 24-year Communist dictatorship of <strong>Nicolae Ceaușescu</strong> got its start in 1989. <br />
<br />
Timişoara's attractive city centre abounds with Vienna Secession and Art Nouveau architecture dating from the Austro-Hungarian Empire period of the 18th through early 20th centuries, lending it the moniker Little Vienna. Highlights for visitors among Romania’s largest ensemble of historical buildings include Piața<strong> Victoriei</strong> (Victory Square), <strong>Piața Libertatii</strong> (Liberty Square) and <strong>Piața</strong> <strong>Unirii</strong> (Unity Square); the <strong>Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral</strong>, built in 1946; the 220-year-old, the Austrian Baroque Roman Catholic <strong>St George’s Cathedral</strong>, the open-air <strong>Village Museum of Banat</strong>; the early-18th-century <strong>Theresa Bastion</strong> fortress; the <strong>Communism Museum</strong> about the bad old days; and in the “City of Parks”, various appealing examples including <strong>Parcul Central</strong>, <strong>Parcul Regina Maria</strong> (Queen Mary Park), and <strong>Parcul Rozelor</strong> (Roses Park).<br />
<br />
This year’s programme, with the tagline “<strong>Shne Your Light</strong>,” builds especially on Timisoara’s status as a hotbed for avant-garde/underground culture in the past several decades, and includes events with two Nobel literature laureates, <strong>Orhan Pamuk</strong> and <strong>Olga Tokarczuk</strong>, as well as German philosopher <strong>Peter Sloterdijk</strong>; a concert directed by Timisoara-born conductor <strong>Cristian Macelarum</strong> (also the artistic director of Bucharest’s <strong>George Enescu International Festival</strong>); and an exhibition of the works of Romania’s most renowned sculptor, <strong>Constantin Brancusi</strong>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DDmD9pRRg48" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://veszprembalaton2023.hu/en"><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Vezprém-Balaton, Hungary</strong></span></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:8pt;"> A city of around 57,000, just over an hour from Budapest and near the shores of <strong>Lake Balaton</strong> (the largest in <strong>Central Europe</strong>), the capital of <strong>Balaton County</strong> is one of Hungary’s oldest urban areas, and predates even the arrival of the Hungarians to the region in the early 11th century. With its hilly, winding cobblestone lanes and romantic corners, <strong><a href="https://www.veszpreminfo.hu/en/places/all/l:best-of-veszprem">Veszprém</a></strong> definitely sports that “fairytale” vibe many visitors to Europe come seeking, and spots here not to miss include its 10th-century castle complex, on a hill right in the middle of town; the <strong>Laczkó Dezső Museum</strong> of history; its biweekly Sunday outdoor market; the atmospheric ruins of the 13th-century church and monastery of <strong>St. Margaret</strong>; and the 19-century <strong>Fenyves Mill</strong>, the town’s only intact water mill, complete with interactive exhibits. And of course right nearby are the various pleasures of <a href="https://love2fly.iberia.com/2015/08/07/lake-balaton-hungary/">Lake Balaton and its other surrounding towns and wine country</a>. <br />
<br />
What’s more, this is a small town with big cultural chops, and for some years has had plenty of experience in putting on cultural events, such as its annual <strong>VeszprémFest</strong>, <strong>Utcazene (Street Music) Festival</strong>, <strong>Auer Festival</strong>, the <strong>Hungarian Motion Picture Festival</strong>, and <strong>DANCE Festival</strong>, And shared with neighbouring communities, a programme entitled “Shine! The Celebration of Creativity” will bring in hundreds of artists from 25 countries nd across various disciplines. It’s a bit ironic, actually, all this “creativity” and apparent openness to the world in the European Union’s most repressive “illiberal democracy”, but there you have it – presumably <strong>Viktor Orbán</strong>’s secret police will not be monitoring your every move.</span></p></div>
"Nepal" interests the world. This single word demonstrates the adoration and warmth around the world. We should expound; the social decent variety of Nepal is as rich as its characteristic and land as
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/3169359-BlogPost-686526
2018-10-10T07:38:33.000Z
2018-10-10T07:38:33.000Z
Nepal Holiday Treks And Tours
https://tripatini.com/members/NepalHolidayTreksAndTours
<div><p>"Nepal" interests the world. This single word demonstrates the adoration and warmth around the world. We should expound; the social decent variety of Nepal is as rich as its characteristic and land assorted variety. Troublesome geology is home of various networks. Every people group has its own dialect, social dress, convictions, customs, conventions and celebrations.</p><p>No big surprise Nepal is the place where there are celebrations. Relatively consistently is multi-day for festivity in some network. Every Community has regard and appreciation for another network. This is the motivation behind why various culture and celebrations exist in Nepal agreeably.</p><p>It is relatively difficult to specify all the way of life and celebrations existing in <a href="http://www.nepalholidaytreksandtours.com" target="_blank">Nepal</a>. Along these lines, a portion of the major prevalent <a href="http://www.nepalholidaytreksandtours.com/blog/top-festivals-celebrated-in-nepal/" target="_blank">celebrations</a> for the greater part of individuals are recorded beneath</p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.nepalholidaytreksandtours.com" target="_blank">Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours</a></p></div>
Southern Oregon's Gem: Oregon Shakespeare Festival Brings 'Twelfth Night' to Life
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/oregon-shakespeare-festival-twelfth-night
2016-04-06T14:11:26.000Z
2016-04-06T14:11:26.000Z
rusty rae
https://tripatini.com/members/rustyrae
<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009058880,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="300" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009058880,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-left" alt="9009058880?profile=original" /></a>I admit I am not much of a critic. I know what I like, and honestly I like just about everything, so don’t expect your standard, everyday review of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival’s <em>Twelfth Night</em>.<br /> <br /> I further admit that for me Shakespeare has too often just been words on a page – a cognitive exercise in appreciation of the work of one of the world’s great writers of the English language. In reading the words on a page I can appreciate both the talent it took to write them and the heart of the matter that the words speak to.<br /> <br /> But it is not until you see these words brought to life on the stage that you can really appreciate the writings of William Shakespeare. Of course the Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) in the city of Ashland has been bringing the bard to life for more than 80 years, but its production of <em>Twelfth Night</em> is extraordinary.<br /> <br /> <em>Twelfth Night</em> is the story of Illyria, a topsy-turvy place full of romantics and eccentrics. At least that’s how it seems to Viola, who’s been cast adrift in this merry world. Out of necessity, she disguises herself as a boy but quickly becomes an object of desire to the woman her employer sent her to woo.<br /> <br /> Time eventually sorts it all out, but not before Viola and everyone around her are bewitched, bothered and bewildered as they traverse the often contradictory landscapes of their hearts. (At left, Toby Belch [Daniel T. Parker] and Feste [Rodney Gardiner] test the patience of Malvolio [Ted Deasy, center].) <br /> <br /> One of the things that sets this production apart from the “standard” delivery of <em>Twelfth Night</em> is that it has been updated to 1930s Hollywood, with the play set at Hollywood Land’s Illyria Studios.<br /> <br /> This review is not about the acting – it does not need to be as it is strong enough across the board to carry the 2½-hour production. This staging of the play brought a new level of understanding to the fabled story thanks to both the cast and to production values that take advantage of modern technology in the telling of this story.<br /> <br /> OSF director Christopher Liam Moore and really the entire production team deserve credit for effectively integrating rear-screen projection into the production, which helps to tell the Shakespeare’s story but does not take away from the power of his words.</p><p><br /> The first thing that I noticed and which made this production a bit different is that the entire play is one long choreographed set. Characters move in and out of a scene like chess pieces in a grandmaster contest. Their moves are intricate and complex but are carried off smoothly and add a level of visual variety to the production that improves the storytelling power of the play.<br /> <br /> As mentioned earlier, the OSF production brings a level of life to the drab pages of a manuscript, with each of the actors adding their own interpretation of the character, so that in the end we in the audience know these individuals as our own intimate friends.<br /> <br /> Furthermore, it is quite obvious that these actors all care greatly not only about the words of Shakespeare as well as their love of their craft, but they also love each other. This affection shines through in the production, and is yet another reason that this performance totally won the audience and brought with it a standing ovation.<br /> <br /> While everyone in the cast has a level of talent that is beyond my comprehension – nearly all members of the cast can not only act (as opposed to delivering lines from a script) but they also can sing and dance.<br /> <br /> Most impressive to me is Rodney Gardiner in the role of Feste. Feste is the Fool or Clown of the production, and he weaves his way through the play helping to explain the story to the audience. Mr. Gardiner is quite impressive in this role not only for his characterization of Feste, but for his significant talent both as a singer and dancer.<br /> <br /> With 1930s Hollywood as the backdrop for this telling of <em>Twelfth Night</em> the show’s finale pays homage to Busby Berkley, the Hollywood director of elaborate musical productions of the era. It is a wonderful ending to a wonderful telling of the story.<br /> <br /> In this year that celebrates the 400th anniversary of the Bard’s passing, I am sure that this production would bring a smile to his lips. I know it did to mine.<br /> <br /> Note: <em>Twelfth Night</em> will run through October 30, 2016 at the Angus Bowmer theatre on the OSF campus. In 2016 the company will produce 11 plays, including three that will be delivered in the outside Elizabethan Theatre beginning June 7. More information can be found at <a href="https://www.osfashland.org" target="_blank">OSF</a>.</p><p></p><p><em>photo: <span>Toby Belch (Daniel T. Parker) and Feste (Rodney Gardiner) test Malvolio’s (Ted Deasy, center) patience. Photo by Jenny Graham, Oregon Shakespeare Festival.</span><br /></em></p><p></p></div>
Independent Travelers – Spoleto, Italy: More Than a Festival
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/spoleto-umbria-italy
2015-07-29T17:51:05.000Z
2015-07-29T17:51:05.000Z
Bob and Janice Kollar
https://tripatini.com/members/BobandJaniceKollar
<div><h1 class="entry-title"><strong style="font-size:13px;"><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7127.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-360 align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7127.jpg?w=300&h=200" alt="IMG_7127" width="300" height="200" /></a></strong></h1><p></p><div class="entry-content"><p>We selected Spoleto as our base camp for the exploration of the Umbria region because of its central location, short drive from Rome, and easy access to surrounding major cities such as Perugia, Orvieto, and Assisi. But as we discovered during our one week stay that there is a lot more to Spoleto than its <a href="http://www.festivaldispoleto.com/?lang=eng" target="_blank">famous summertime festival</a> (late June to mid-July).<br /> <br /> Spoleto is a <strong>UNESCO World Heritage Site</strong>, and has an exceptional collection of museums ranging from early first century archaeological displays to contemporary modern art and all are being maintained in beautiful venues.<br /> <br /> When you add the outstanding restaurant options, regional shops and the fact that Spoleto is just a fun place to walk around… we simply fell in love with this medieval walled city high in the hills of Umbria.</p><p></p><p><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/spoleto-2015.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-382 aligncenter align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/spoleto-2015.jpg?w=625" alt="spoleto 2015" /></a></p><p style="text-align:center;"><span class="font-size-1">Image: Spoleto Festival 2015</span></p><p></p><p>The <strong><em>Festival dei Due Mondi</em></strong> <strong>(Festival of the Two Worlds) </strong>was created by composer Gian Carlo Menotti in 1957. His intent was to establish a friendly competition between American and European “worlds” focused on concerts, opera, drama, dance, visual arts and discussion groups exploring the sciences. Inevitably there were a few spin-off festivals such as “Spoleto Festival USA” in Charleston, South Carolina and Australia’s “Melbourne International Festival of the Arts”.</p><p></p><p><strong>Beyond the Festival –</strong> <strong>Exploring the Antiquity that Defines Spoleto</strong></p><p></p><p>So what do you do in Spoleto after the circus leaves town? Armed with an inspired itinerary and a spirit of adventure, Spoleto reveals another side… so the journey begins.</p><p></p><p><strong>The Rocca Albornoziana Fortress and the National Museum of the Duchy of Spoleto<br /> <br /></strong> The most obvious structure to explore is sitting on top of a hill known as <strong>Sant’Elia</strong> and is the dominant landmark in the city skyline: the <strong>Rocca Albornoziana Fortress</strong>. This monument dates back to the late 13th century, and was constructed as a military castle to emphasize papal power in the territory; it was also used as a holiday retreat for the local pontifical governors.<br /> <br /> From the Rocca you are afforded excellent views of the city and countryside. An additional reward for your efforts is a visit to the exceptional <strong>National Museum of the Duchy of Spoleto, </strong><strong>headquartered inside the fortress. </strong>The artifacts on display range from the 1st Century through the 15th century and are divided into three themes: the Christian community, the Lombard Duchy of Spoleto, and the Carolingian period. (Please google it for more details.)</p><p style="text-align:center;"></p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Rocca Albornoziana</strong><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7091.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-375 aligncenter align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7091.jpg?w=300&h=200" alt="IMG_7091" width="300" height="200" /></a></p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>The Courtyard of Honor</strong><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7218.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-365 aligncenter align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7218.jpg?w=300&h=200" alt="IMG_7218" width="300" height="200" /></a></p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Marble Statue circa 1<span>st</span> century</strong></p><p><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7284.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-367 aligncenter align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7284.jpg?w=300&h=200" alt="IMG_7284" width="300" height="200" /></a></p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Marble Portraits circa 1st century</strong></p><p><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7300.jpg"><img class="wp-image-369 alignnone align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7300.jpg?w=304&h=203" alt="IMG_7300" width="304" height="203" /><img class="alignnone wp-image-368 align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7298.jpg?w=303&h=202" alt="IMG_7298" width="303" height="202" /></a></p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>The Bridge of Towers</strong></p><p><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7250.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-366 aligncenter align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7250.jpg?w=300&h=200" alt="IMG_7250" width="300" height="200" /></a></p><p><br /> Leaving the Rocca, you have a leisurely walk back to town, but first we suggest a slight side trip to one of Spoleto’s most famous landmarks, the <strong>Bridge of Towers</strong> (<strong>Ponte delle Torri</strong>). The bridge crosses a deep gorge and links the Rocca to another fortification on the other side. It is about 262 feet above the gorge and about 750 feet long. The footpath is very wide and is a popular attraction for those who are not afraid of heights… the photographic opportunities make the extra effort worth it!</p><p></p><p><strong>The Roman Theater and the National Archaeological Museum of Spoleto<br /> <br /></strong> Walking back from the Rocca, you discover another amazing archaeological site tucked away in the city. The <strong>Roman Theater</strong> was built in the first century and was literally combined with the former church of St. Agatha, as they actually used some of the theater’s walls in the construction of the monastery.<br /> <br /> This collection of ancient Roman structures is currently housing the <strong>National Archaeological Museum of Spoleto</strong>. The museum does an outstanding job documenting the history of Spoleto with permanent exhibits of the Bronze Age, the Iron Age and the Roman era. (Please google it for more details.)</p><p></p><p><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7396.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-377 align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7396.jpg?w=300&h=200" alt="IMG_7396" width="300" height="200" /><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-376 align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7387.jpg?w=300&h=200" alt="IMG_7387" width="300" height="200" /></a></p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong> </strong><strong style="text-align:center;">Marble portrait of Emperor Augustus from the Roman Theater circa BC</strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7429.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-378 aligncenter align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7429.jpg?w=200&h=300" alt="IMG_7429" width="200" height="300" /></a></strong></p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong> </strong><strong> </strong><strong style="text-align:center;">Weaving tools that were excavated in 2008</strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7422.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-379 aligncenter align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7422.jpg?w=300&h=200" alt="IMG_7422" width="300" height="200" /></a></strong></p><p><strong> </strong><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>The Collicola Palace and the Civic Gallery of Modern Art<br /> <br /></strong> As you continue your journey, you now transition into modern times of Spoleto, and the experience is breathtaking. The <strong>Collicola Palace</strong> is an extravagant aristocratic building built around 1730 and originally inhabited by the nobles of the Collicola family. The building was purchased by the city of Spoleto in 1932 and is now the home of the <strong>Civic Gallery of Modern Art. <br /> <br /></strong> The gallery was created in early 1950 by a small group of local artists intent on organizing a contemporary art center, and is based on selected artists such as <strong>De Gregorio, Marignoli, Orsini, Raspi and Toscano</strong><strong>, </strong>and <strong>sculptor </strong>Leoncillo Leoncilli.<br /> <br /> Their collective efforts resulted in being awarded the prestigious “<strong>Spoleto Prize</strong>”. This honor is presented to those remarkable Italian personalities who have distinguished themselves in various sectors of endeavor, whether professional, artistic, business, scientific, cultural, religious or philanthropic.<br /> <br /> The gallery also has featured works by Calder, Tomato, Turcato, Consagra, and Sol Lewitt.</p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong><br /> Scenes from the gallery</strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_8061.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-380 aligncenter align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_8061.jpg?w=300&h=200" alt="IMG_8061" width="300" height="200" /></a></strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_8070.jpg"><img class="wp-image-370 alignnone align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_8070.jpg?w=283&h=425" alt="IMG_8070" width="283" height="425" /></a></strong><strong><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_8070.jpg"><img class="wp-image-371 alignnone align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_8071.jpg?w=167&h=111" alt="IMG_8071" width="140" height="93" /></a></strong></p><div class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_8078.jpg"><img class="wp-image-373 align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_8078.jpg?w=393&h=262" alt="IMG_8078" width="393" height="262" /></a></div><div class="wp-caption aligncenter"><p class="wp-caption-text"><img class="wp-image-372 alignnone align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_8076.jpg?w=134&h=89" alt="IMG_8076" width="134" height="89" /></p></div><p><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_8085.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-374 aligncenter align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_8085.jpg?w=200&h=300" alt="IMG_8085" width="200" height="300" /></a></p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Modern art on display in Spoleto</strong></p><p><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/calder.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-381 aligncenter align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/calder.jpg?w=230&h=300" alt="calder" width="230" height="300" /></a></p><p></p><p><strong>The Theatre Caio Melisso Spazio Carla Fendi Restoration<br /> <br /></strong> Continue your exploration at the <strong>Teatro Caio Melisso</strong>, one of Italy’s first theaters. This valuable structure has undergone many transformations over the centuries, from its 14th-century glory to being abandoned and now, with the generous support of the Italian luxury fashion house Fendi, this ancient Spoleto theater has been brought back to its past stature (photos below).<br /> <br /> In 2007 the Carla Fendi Foundation took over the renovation project (the initial focus was the incredible <em>original</em> curtain and the stage area) and created a beautiful environment to enjoy concerts, plays and art installations. The theater was renamed in her honor and gratitude for her generosity to Spoleto.</p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong> </strong></p><p><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7156.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-383 aligncenter align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_7156.jpg?w=300&h=200" alt="IMG_7156" width="300" height="200" /></a></p><p><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_71551.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-384 aligncenter align-center" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_71551.jpg?w=300&h=200" alt="IMG_7155" width="300" height="200" /></a></p><p style="text-align:center;"><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_71391.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-385 alignnone" src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_71391.jpg?w=300&h=200" alt="IMG_7139" width="300" height="200" /></a> </p><p style="text-align:center;"><a href="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_71451.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://bobkandjanicek.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/img_71451.jpg?w=300&h=200&width=300" width="300" class="align-center" alt="img_71451.jpg?w=300&h=200&width=300" /></a></p><p style="text-align:center;"></p><p style="text-align:left;"><strong>In Summary<br /> <br /></strong> While the Spoleto Festival is by far the most publicized attraction of this ancient walled city, there is so much more to see and touch. The numerous museums featuring vast collections of antiquity, and the modern art center with its dynamic exhibitions are all treasures to behold.<br /> <br /> You owe it to yourself to explore the many facets of Spoleto and it only requires that you be inspired and follow a slow travel itinerary.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>After all, what is the hurry… be inspired!</strong></p><p><strong> </strong><strong> </strong></p><p><br /> <br /> <em>© 2015 Inspired Travel Itineraries with Bob and Janice Kollar</em></p><p><em>Photos © 2015 Bob and Janice Kollar</em></p><p></p><p></p></div></div>
Saborea Culinary Extravaganza Celebrates Puerto Rico's Resilience and Recovery
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/saborea-culinary-extravaganza-celebrates-puerto-rico-s-resilience
2018-04-27T20:09:24.000Z
2018-04-27T20:09:24.000Z
Steve Mirsky
https://tripatini.com/members/SteveMirsky964
<div><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/hurricanemaria-1024x682.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1024" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/hurricanemaria-1024x682.jpg?width=1024" alt="hurricanemaria-1024x682.jpg?width=1024" /></a></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">With Puerto Rico's communities wiped out, hotels battered, and power grid devastated, Hurricane Maria's landfall on September 2017 was the worst storm ever on record for the island. Included in this destruction from which many are still recovering are small farms producing coffee, plantains, livestock, and other fresh fruits & vegetables. Even</span> <span lang="en" xml:lang="en"><span style="font-size:12pt;">100 days after the storm, half the island was still without power and many lacked access to potable drinking water.</span></span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/saborea.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1000" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/saborea.jpg?width=1000" alt="saborea.jpg?width=1000" /></a></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">There was serious discussion about whether it would be possible or even appropriate to hold <i><a href="http://www.saboreapuertorico.com/">Saborea: A Culinary Extravaganza</a></i>, an annual culinary festival now in its 11th year. Ultimately, suppliers and organizers decided that one of the best ways to continue recovering was to welcome travelers back to the island reminding them why Puerto Rico remains the Caribbean's top foodie destination.</span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/foodcollage-1024x204.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1024" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/foodcollage-1024x204.jpg?width=1024" alt="foodcollage-1024x204.jpg?width=1024" /></a></p><p></p><p><span lang="en" style="font-size:12pt;" xml:lang="en">Borges Meat, Agropeck, Microgreens of the Caribbean, Semila, and Empresas Bobet stepped up to be primary ingredient purveyors of Saborea ensuring that participating chefs directly supported Puerto Rican agribusinesses.</span> <span lang="en-gb" xml:lang="en-gb"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Cocina criolla (Puerto Rican cookery) has Spanish, African, Taíno (Native American), and French influences but lately, forward-thinking chefs are redefining the boundaries of their culinary traditions, merging new techniques while retaining local flavors.</span></span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/roastpig.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1000" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/roastpig.jpg?width=1000" alt="roastpig.jpg?width=1000" /></a></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Considered the Caribbean's largest culinary festival, this year's Saborea held April 4-8, showcased nearly 70 restaurants accompanied by an array of top chefs and mixologists from Puerto Rico and North America. The festive ambiance and dancing are just as much a part of the festival as the enormous variety of samples ranging from tostados and mofongo using plantains, Puerto Rico's baseline ingredient, to whole roasted pig that after being hacked off the spit was meticulously prepared and garnished with pineapple chutney and pepper aioli. Other dishes had an internationalist twist like samosas and sushi.</span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/balenariopark.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1000" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/balenariopark.jpg?width=1000" alt="balenariopark.jpg?width=1000" /></a></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span lang="en" xml:lang="en">Only 15 minutes drive from Old San Juan overlooking the city and bay of San Juan, the majority of</span> this year's Saborea was held at <a href="https://www.municipiocarolina.com/municipio/gerencias/servicios/balneario/">Balneario de Carolina</a>, one of Puerto Rico’s blue flag beaches and <span lang="en" xml:lang="en">largest urban beach in the Caribbean</span>. <span lang="en" xml:lang="en">Sustaining $1.5 million in storm damages, the park reopened just in time for the festival welcoming n</span>early 6,000 attendees including an increasing number of tourists.</span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/bubblesbitescollage-1024x286.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1024" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/bubblesbitescollage-1024x286.jpg?width=1024" alt="bubblesbitescollage-1024x286.jpg?width=1024" /></a></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Festivities began with <em>Bubbles and Bites</em> overlooking the beach at the Intercontinental Hotel with light bites ranging from escabeche, to yam burgers and chicharrones served with bubbly in its many forms in a chic night club ambiance on the pool deck. The night after, Saborea Sunset took place under the gastronomic pavilion at Balneario de Carolina with the ocean front views, music, and tastings evoking all that Puerto Rico has to offer. Festivities continued the next morning with brunch samplings like bananas foster and fresh baked treats.</span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/deltaviplounge.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1000" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/deltaviplounge.jpg?width=1000" alt="deltaviplounge.jpg?width=1000" /></a></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span lang="en" xml:lang="en">Primary sponsor <a href="http://www.delta.com">Delta Air Lines</a> was on hand with a welcoming VIP lounge area celebrating their 65th anniversary flying to San Juan, also the longest uninterrupted service throughout both the Caribbean and Latin America, with</span> 3 daily flights from JFK, and 4 from Atlanta.</span></p><h2><strong><span style="font-size:18pt;"><em>Other Must-do Activities in San Juan</em></span></strong></h2><p><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;">Whether you're in San Juan for Saborea or simply looking to gain a better understanding of the island's food culture, don't miss the following:</span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/spoonfoodtourscollage.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="931" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/spoonfoodtourscollage.jpg?width=931" alt="spoonfoodtourscollage.jpg?width=931" /></a></p><h3><a href="https://www.spoonfoodtours.com/">Spoon Food Tour<span lang="en" xml:lang="en">s</span></a></h3><p><br /><span lang="en" style="font-size:12pt;" xml:lang="en">A small Puerto Rican family-owned-and-operated tour company established by Paulina and Gustavo Antonetti, Spoon Food Tours of Old San Juan is committed to reinvigorating the island’s economy and agricultural heritage. Small group walking tours maximize guide interaction visiting 5 establishments that only use local and sustainably sourced ingredients like artisan hand-picked coffee, traditional pastries, locally seasoned pork, mofongo (the Island’s quintessential dish), and homemade ice cream. A refreshing rum cocktail is sure to be on the list for sampling as well.</span></p><p></p><p><span lang="en" xml:lang="en"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Strolling this 500 year-old Spanish Colonial City is also the perfect way to explore historic cobblestone streets winding past neo-classical architecture including the second oldest cathedral in the Americas, a centuries-old convent, and fortifications like the iconic El Morro.</span></span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/elmuseocollage.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="951" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/elmuseocollage.jpg?width=951" alt="elmuseocollage.jpg?width=951" /></a></p><h3><a href="http://www.mapr.org/en">Museo de Art de Puerto Rico</a></h3><p><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;">San Juan boasts one of the largest and most celebrated art museums in the Caribbean. Housed in a grand neoclassical building that was once the city’s Municipal Hospital, The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico boasts 18 exhibition halls encompassing 30,000 sq feet filled with art works from the 17th century to the present. Prints, paintings, posters, drawings, sculpture, photographs and new media depict and interpret both on island and global Puerto Rican experiences.</span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/elmuseocoffeewoodcut.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1000" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/elmuseocoffeewoodcut.jpg?width=1000" alt="elmuseocoffeewoodcut.jpg?width=1000" /></a></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Puerto Rican food ways are also well represented here including a series of wood carvings illustrating each stage of coffee harvesting as well as a video giving modernist perspectives of the huge influence that plantains have had on island culture. Don't miss their 2.5-acre gardens to the back of the museum where winding paths invite visitors to stroll past 16 sculptures and more than 100,000 plantings in a scene reminiscent of Monet’s water lilies.</span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/santaellacollage-1024x294.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1024" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/santaellacollage-1024x294.jpg?width=1024" alt="santaellacollage-1024x294.jpg?width=1024" /></a></p><h3><a href="http://josesantaella.com/">Santaella Restaurant</a></h3><p><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span lang="en-gb" xml:lang="en-gb">Owned by chef José Santaella, his eponymous restaurant in San Juan's Santurce district is</span> a bustling scene complete with an indoor garden and a bar humming with creative mixology. “I keep trying to go back to the basics of local and organic”, says Santaella and it shows in freshly prepared dishes like crisp whole red snapper and flash fried tostones.</span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/market-streetparty.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1000" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/market-streetparty.jpg?width=1000" alt="market-streetparty.jpg?width=1000" /></a></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span lang="en-gb" xml:lang="en-gb">Right outside Santaella one block away is Plaza del Mercado, also known as ‘La Placita’ (little plaza), is a traditional open air market selling produce as well as street food and fruit shakes during the day. As the sun sets, the market closes, barricades go up keeping vehicles out, and dozens of restaurants, cafés, and nightclubs surrounding it for a few blocks on either side are packed with ‘Street Party’ crowds every Thursday and Friday. You'll have plenty of opportunities to dance the meringue and soak in the Boriqua spirit</span>.</span></p><blockquote><span style="font-size:12pt;"><em>Coverage made possible by participating in a sponsored visit. Photos courtesy of Steve Mirsky & wikicommons.</em></span></blockquote></div>
Some Tips for Visiting Singapore
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/singapore-travel-tips
2018-04-22T16:30:00.000Z
2018-04-22T16:30:00.000Z
Olivia Bond
https://tripatini.com/members/OliviaBond
<div><p></p><p></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009230695,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="640" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009230695,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009230695?profile=original" /></a></p><p></p><p>Singapore is a multi-ethnic metropolis-with the Chinese musical show, Feng Shui in addition to chopsticks existing congruously close by saris and Hindu temples - a mixture of cultures that is also Asia's wealthiest state. You can get lots of information and plan a trip with our <a href="https://www.triphobo.com/tripplanner/singapore-5006cfeb76a295b85500000a" target="_blank">Singapore trip planner</a>.</p><p><strong><br /> Location</strong></p><p><br /> A city-state some 137 kilometers (85 miles) north of the Equator, Singapore is comprised of one major island and 59 smaller ones. Singapore lies at the focal point of a major ocean track interfacing the Far East to Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, which gives the blue grass its vital importance. It is disconnected from Malaysia to the north by the thin Johore Strait and from Indonesia to the south by the more extensive Singapore Strait. Visiting Singapore is a bracing mix of old times and hyper-modern. <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009230695,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><br /> <br /></a></p><p><strong>Transportation</strong></p><p><br /> Singapore's open transport framework is overall improved. The system of MRT (metro) trains, transports and taxis serves to shuttle its populace over the city state each day. Singapore Mass Rapid Transit manages three prevailing rail lines; the North-South Line which operates from Marina Bay and reaches Jurong East by means of The Woodlands, the East-West Line which operates from Pasir RIs and reaches Joo Koon, and the ring line which operates from Harbourfront and reaches Dhoby Ghaut. The Singapore Travel Guide will surely help you in this aspect.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009231292,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009231292,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" class="align-full" alt="9009231292?profile=original" /></a></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>Festivals</strong></p><p><br /> Each ethnic gathering in Singapore has its particular celebrations, generally identified with its religion. Generally each month of the year sees a festival of some structure or another, carrying an image devour of shade, ceremony and function which get a charge out of the entire populace. In a quiet and concordant public order, Singaporeans regard and party about each celebration with relish.<strong><br /> <br /> Dining<br /> <br /></strong></p><p>Wherever you go in Singapore, you'll most surely have the ability to discover an eatery, as the locals essentially adore consuming. In the event that you need to taste different social luxuries all in one place, you can head to outdoors sustenance centres for example Lau Pa Sat, Maxwell Road Food Centre and numerous more, while for additional open to eating decisions, there is an entire choice of cooking styles to browse – French, Italian, Japanese, Indian and more.</p><p></p><p></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009231479,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009231479,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" class="align-full" alt="9009231479?profile=original" /></a></p><p><strong><br /> Best Times to Visit</strong></p><p><br /> Singapore's essentially has varieties in temperature, and the amount of precipitation too does not fluctuate to any incredible degree, in spite of the fact that it is to some degree higher between November and January. Assuming that you're a nourishment buff or love shopping, then the best chance to visit Singapore might be around July as that is when the Great Singapore Sale and the Singapore Food Festival are held. Singapore tourist information will guide you.</p><p><br /> If Vacation is what has just struck your mind, consider Singapore the place that does not lose its charm in any season and keeps shining. With the help of Singapore Travel Guide <a href="https://www.triphobo.com/" target="_blank">Triphobo.com</a> you can get to know about accommodation, transportation in Singapore City.</p><p></p></div>
'Semana Santa' (Easter Week) an Extravaganza in Spain
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/semana-santa-easter-week-an-extravaganza-in-spain
2015-04-02T14:47:01.000Z
2015-04-02T14:47:01.000Z
David Paul Appell
https://tripatini.com/members/DavidPaulAppell16
<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008941875,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008941875,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9008941875?profile=original" /></a></p>
<p><br /> In <strong>Spain</strong> as in much of Europe, church attendance may have waned of late and society modernized in many of its attitudes, but culturally it's still one of Europe’s most Catholic countries — perhaps never more so than during <b>Easter</b> week, a bigger deal here since the Middle Ages than in almost any other place in the world… <span id="more-2787"></span> If you’re lucky enough to witness <b><i>Semana Santa</i></b> (Holy Week), as Spaniards call this time of year, you will find that many people take the entire week off as a holiday, and many others take to the streets in scores of cities and towns from Palm Sunday through <b>Easter Sunday</b> and <b>Easter Monday</b> (this year, March 29-April 6).<br /> <br /> <a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c3/SemanaSantaSevillaLaPaz1.jpeg/640px-SemanaSantaSevillaLaPaz1.jpeg?width=640" target="_blank"><img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c3/SemanaSantaSevillaLaPaz1.jpeg/640px-SemanaSantaSevillaLaPaz1.jpeg?width=640" class="align-center" alt="640px-SemanaSantaSevillaLaPaz1.jpeg?width=640" /></a><br /> For the most part, the elaborate processions and ceremonies involved in Semana Santa pageantry are dominated by <i>cofradías</i> (lay fraternities) whose members, the <i>nazarenos</i>, march in multi-color, pointy-capped outfits (which are actually disturbingly reminiscent to Americans of Ku Klux Klan getups). While common all over Spain, the more over-the-top festivities tend to be found in <b>Andalusia</b>; <strong>Seville</strong>'s (above) is probably the biggest and most elaborate of all, with the streets of the old town thronged from <b>Palm Sunday</b> to <b>Easter Sunday</b>, and the highlights being the processions from the evening of <b>Holy Thursday</b> through the dawn (<i>madrugá</i>) of <b>Good Friday</b>. One of the distinctive features in Seville are the <strong><i>pasos</i></strong>, like wooden floats with religious scenes, but carried not by vehicles but by squads of dudes. <strong>Málaga</strong> (below) also puts on a particularly spirited show this week, with similar processions featuring floats called <strong><i>tronos</i></strong> (thrones), and other famous ones include those of <b>Murcia</b> and <b>Cartagena</b>, next door to Andalusia on the Mediterranean coast.</p>
<p><a href="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5111/7052046229_b98506b502_z.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5111/7052046229_b98506b502_z.jpg?width=640" width="640" class="align-center" alt="7052046229_b98506b502_z.jpg?width=640" /></a></p>
<p><br /> Semana Santa is also particularly big in a number of localities in <b>Castile and León</b>, especially <strong>Valladolid</strong>, <strong>León</strong>, <strong>Salamanca</strong>, <strong>Ávila</strong> (top), and <strong>Zamora</strong>, the last of which is the oldest procession of penitents documented in Spain, dating back to 1179 – not surprisingly, this one preserves a particularly medieval feel. And by the way, two weeks after Semana Santa, many Andalusians start all over again with the splendid, equally traditional <b>Feria de Abril</b> in Seville (yeah, between one thing and another, not all that much gets done in Seville this month, actually). <br /> <br /> So yes, there’s no question that spring arrives with plenty of pomp and circumstance in Spain. Consider the foregoing just a tiny introduction – honestly, it’s hard to adequately convey the amazing spirit and atmosphere of these cities during these age-old rituals and celebrations, but if you want to get to the heart of traditional Spanish culture, I highly recommend getting over here to witness one at least once in your life. If you’re interested in looking into it next year, Palm Sunday gets things pomping and circumstancing on March 20. </p>
<p><i> </i></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p><span class="font-size-1"><i>images | <a href="http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-189460091/stock-photo-photography-taken-during-easter-in-avila-spain.html?src=iK57NKxsaBuWPZk0Um2SsA-1-0" target="_blank">carlosvelayos/Shutterstock</a>, <a href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:SemanaSantaSevillaLaPaz1.jpeg">Ángel Chacón</a>, <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ramonbonetfotos/7052046229/sizes/z/">LES FOTOS DEL RAMON</a></i></span></p>
<p></p>
<p></p></div>
When to visit Los Angeles
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/when-to-visit-los-angeles
2017-11-09T12:00:00.000Z
2017-11-09T12:00:00.000Z
Olivia Bond
https://tripatini.com/members/OliviaBond
<div><p>Los Angeles is a Californian city located in the United States of America. This place is full of educational institutions acting as an incentive to fields of fashion, media, business, art, technology, science and many others. It is a highly populated city of career oriented people always ready to live life to its full extent. Thereby, it is also known as the City of Angels. This city tries to find a constant balance between precipitation and sunshine and that is why, it has a Mediterranean climate. The climate is extreme though and hence, the best time to visit Los Angeles is in autumn and spring.You can explore more with <a href="https://www.triphobo.com/tripplanner/los-angeles-5006d02576a295b855000069" target="_blank">Los angeles trip planner</a> for better travel experience.</p><p><strong>Popular For:</strong></p><p>Los Angeles is very famous for its creative industry with the main occupation of people being involved in either the film or television industry. Hollywood has found home in Los Angeles with most of the films being shot there and performances of many theatrical troupes are held. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walt_Disney_Concert_Hall" target="_blank">The Walt Disney Concert Hall</a> is an exquisite place for philharmonic orchestras to perform. Los Angeles is the centre stage for arts like these to grow and develop. Not just that, Los Angeles is a famous place for several music institutes like Colburn School and USC Thornton School of Music also.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009209074,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009209074,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" class="align-center" alt="9009209074?profile=original" /></a></p><p><strong>Recreation Activities:</strong></p><p>After knowing when to visit Los Angeles, one should reach out for recreational activities. Reportedly, there are eight hundred and forty one museums in Los Angeles. And there are several art galleries too. Also, baseball is played a lot in this city. Basketball is also tremendously practiced in LA. Los Angeles is filled with baseball stadiums and basketball courts. Besides, Major League Soccer is also played here. Los Angeles is slightly religious as well. Mainly, protestant Christianity is practiced here and this is why many cathedrals are located within LA. Los Angeles also has a very high population of Jewish people due to which Judaism is pretty famous here.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009209474,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009209474,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" class="align-center" alt="9009209474?profile=original" /></a></p><p><strong>When to visit:</strong></p><p>Festivals in Los Angeles are held every week and hence, one should know the best time to visit Los Angeles. One can visit Los Angeles any time of the year, since every month has two to three different festivals awaiting tourists from all over the world. Yet, one should try to visit LA in February, April, June and July. These months host the biggest festivals conducted in LA. In February, the Chinese New Year Festivals takes place which involves a parade that travels certain parts of the City of Angels. There is plenty of food, fashion shows and other amazing things carried out in this festival. The LA Times Books Festival is held in the month of April which invites a lot of booksellers. LA Gay Pride and Los Angeles Latino International Film festival take place in June and July respectively. You can also explore more with <a href="https://www.triphobo.com/tripplans/los-angeles-united-states/3-days" target="_blank">Los Angeles Itinerary 3 Days</a><span>.</span></p><p></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009209670,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009209670,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" class="align-center" alt="9009209670?profile=original" /></a></p><p></p></div>
8 Must-Do Events in Sydney This Season
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/must-see-events-in-sydney-this-spring
2017-09-16T03:38:31.000Z
2017-09-16T03:38:31.000Z
Amy Sky Piper
https://tripatini.com/members/AmySkyPiper
<div><p><a href="https://www.broadsheet.com.au/media/cache/77/4f/774f88755e3af27fc56a4865e487d41b.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.broadsheet.com.au/media/cache/77/4f/774f88755e3af27fc56a4865e487d41b.jpg" class="align-center" alt="774f88755e3af27fc56a4865e487d41b.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Another of the reasons I love living in Sydney is that there are events here all year round, many of them free to attend. If you are visiting the city this spring, there are some events on the calendar that you just can’t miss. You will have a fantastic time if you schedule your trip around one of these, though make sure you book your tickets in advance so you can definitely get a place!</p><p></p><p><span class="font-size-4"><strong><a href="https://antidote.sydneyoperahouse.com/" target="_blank">Antidote</a></strong></span></p><p><br /> Let’s start off with a new festival which I love. <a href="http://www.antidote.sydneyoperahouse.com/">Antidote</a> is all about art and social change and takes place over two days at the iconic Sydney Opera House in early September. There are free art performances, installations, talks, debates, and even interactive pieces which allow you to get involved. It’s a lot of fun and doesn’t take itself too seriously.</p><p></p><p><strong><span class="font-size-4"><a href="https://antidote.sydneyoperahouse.com/" target="_blank">Surry Hills Festival</a></span></strong></p><p><br /> Taking place this year in this central neighbourhood on September 23, this one (top) has been going on for over 15 years already, so the word has spread and it’s very popular. The whole day of entertainment is free and it’s great for families, so everyone can come along. My favourite part is the live music, but a close second is the street food and market stalls which are packed with local produce. If you have kids they will have plenty to get up to as well.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/assets.whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/2016/07/SFF17_dig_assets_1400x710pxl.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/assets.whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/2016/07/SFF17_dig_assets_1400x710pxl.jpg" class="align-center" alt="SFF17_dig_assets_1400x710pxl.jpg" /></a></p><p><strong><span class="font-size-4"><a href="https://sydneyfringe.com/?gclid=CjwKCAjw9O3NBRB3EiwAK6wPT_ptzumbMRTQxEc8amAmCUgmBJG5HC702DOoUHlrK_v6AWJ0H9LiFBoCIJMQAvD_BwE" target="_blank">Sydney Fringe</a></span></strong></p><p><br /> Taking place throughout the month of September, this is one of the biggest events of the year, and so many people flock here to see it – you might have trouble deciding <a href="https://www.accorhotels.com/gb/city/hotels-sydney-v5577.shtml">where to stay around Sydney</a> at this time because hotels get booked up quickly. Comedy, theatre, art installations, a circus, and parties across the city will be part of this fantastic event. It is very well-established and there were over 300 different productions in various venues last year, so you can expect this year to be on the same or an even larger scale.</p><p></p><p><span class="font-size-4"><strong><a href="http://suff.com.au/" target="_blank">Sydney Underground Film Festival</a></strong></span></p><p><br /> Film festivals usually showcase the best of the newest films out there, and the underground festival now underway (Sept. 14-17) here is all about indie productions which can’t quite make it to the bigger events. There’s never any telling what kind of films you’ll be able to see as all genres are welcome. I love it when you find a real gem that no one else knows about – and the <a href="http://www.suff.com.au/TICKETS">Sydney Underground Film Festival</a> is definitely the place for that!</p><p><b> </b></p><p></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296627896,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296627896,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-full" alt="9296627896?profile=original" /></a></p><p></p><p><strong><span class="font-size-4"><a href="http://www.waverley.nsw.gov.au/recreation/calendar_of_events/fow" target="_blank">Festival of the Winds</a></span></strong></p><p><br /> used to love flying a kite when I was a kid, and that’s why the Festival of the Winds really captures my imagination. It’s one of the most colourful events that Sydney puts on, with kites flying high over Bondi Beach (this year, Sept. 10). You can buy spectacular handmade kites, join a workshop to make your own, or just watch the international kite flyers with their most spectacular creations.</p><p></p><p><span class="font-size-4"><strong><a href="http://www.fairfieldcity.nsw.gov.au/moonfestival" target="_blank">Cabramatta Moon Festival</a></strong></span></p><p><br /> Cabramatta is an area of Sydney where many Vietnamese families have settled, and on Sept. 24 the Moon Festival celebrates their culture and cuisine in a street festival which draws up to 100,000 attendees. The party starts on John Street on the spring equinox, where daylight and darkness are at equal lengths. It’s a truly special day and night, with gourmet food, market stalls, parades, and a fireworks finale.</p><p></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009201065,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009201065,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-full" alt="9009201065?profile=original" /></a></p><p></p><p><span class="font-size-4"><strong><a href="http://sculpturebythesea.com/" target="_blank">Sculpture By The Sea</a></strong></span></p><p><br /> This installation lasts from October 19 to November 5, bringing more than 100 sculptures to the coastal walk which joins Bondi with Tamarama, just as it has done for over 20 years. The line-up includes both local and international artists, with a generous prize available for those whose work is exhibited. You just have to go for a walk along Bondi when this is in place!</p><p><span class="font-size-4"><b><br /> <a href="http://www.newtownfestival.org/" target="_blank">Newtown Festival</a><br /> <br /></b></span></p><p>Its 39th edition being held this November 12th, this is all about celebrating this bohemian little slice of the city southwest of Darling Harbour, with around 90,000 people coming down to enjoy it – including me! There will be live music, street food, markets, and a park venue which makes the whole atmosphere relaxed and fun. It’s a day of love and embracing the local culture, which is a really nice way to spend the day. I never miss it when I’m in Sydney!</p><p><br /> <br /> I can’t recommend any of these events enough – they are all a great part of life in Sydney and attract huge amounts of visitors to spend the day or night in celebration. Don’t miss out on any of them if you’re around when they happen!</p><p></p></div>
Add On Africa For A WAP Year That Wows!
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/for-a-wap-year-that-wows-add-on-africa
2017-08-25T16:15:33.000Z
2017-08-25T16:15:33.000Z
Sam Ward
https://tripatini.com/members/SamWard
<div><p style="text-align:center;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009192088,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="400" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009192088,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009192088?profile=original" /></a><em>Assisting the local community & helping to paint schools in Uganda</em></p><p></p><p><span>Here’s why Africa will fit perfectly into your WAP (Work & Play) year: the new gapper seeking to enhance their CV, earn some hard cash, AND travel. Yes, that single minded, spiritual quest to find yourself is so last year, which means, if you want your year off to pay off, you’ll have to choose how and where you spend your time more wisely. </span></p><p><span><span>While gapping is still arguably more fashionable in the UK, Malia Obama has popularised the WAP year stateside, her twelve month break before attending Harvard University involving an internship with The Weinstein Company, travel to Bolivia and Peru (the trip reportedly organised by a company called Where There Be Dragons), a family holiday in Bali, and visits to Utah, for the 2017 Sundance Film Festival, and Chicago, where she partied at the Lollapalooza festival.</span></span></p><p></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009192495,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="400" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009192495,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009192495?profile=original" /></a></p><p style="text-align:center;"><em>White Water rafting on the Zambezi</em></p><p></p><p><span>Proof that travel can help you sell yourself, Acacia Africa's <strong><span style="color:#800000;"><a href="http://acacia-africa.com/tours/ultimate-african-adventure-39-days-17UAAV39" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">39 day Ultimate African Adventure</span></a></span></strong> will allow you to gain a whole host of transferable skills – valuable skills you can really hammer home come that all important interview. From improving your team working abilities on an optional white water rafting trip down the Zambezi to building cross cultural social skills on a volunteer project to uplift local Ugandan schools – the list of life learning pursuits is endless. If you’ve chosen to opt out of the next academic year, book before 31 August as the tour operator is discounting selected camping overland departures in September, October and November by 15%. </span></p><p><span><span><strong>SAVE 15% (USD $576pp)</strong> From USD $3,269pp (no single supplement) + Adventure Pass from USD $1,540pp including transport, camping accommodation, 99 meals and services of a tour leader/driver. Excludes return flight. Starts Nairobi - ends Livingstone. Departing 16 September, 14 October and 11 November. Full tour price USD $3,845pp. </span></span></p><p></p><p></p><p style="text-align:center;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009192695,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="440" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009192695,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009192695?profile=original" /></a><em>Zambia's Festival of Action is hosted by Greenpop every June/July</em></p><p style="text-align:center;"></p><p><span>Acacia Africa also offer add on volunteering opportunities in Cape Town through their partners, GVI (Global Vision International), the programmes incorporating additional educational visits to townships in South Africa’s Mother City, and Greenpop, Zambia’s Festival of Action held every June/July. The Livingstone based event brings people together from around the globe to learn, connect, give back and get active. Usually lasting over three weeks, there is the opportunity to plant trees, grow food forests, build using eco-methods, set up recycling systems, brighten up schools with eco murals, attend sustainability workshops and celebrate with live music.</span></p><p><span><span><span style="color:#800000;"><strong><a href="http://acacia-africa.com" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">Acacia Africa</span></a></strong> </span>(acacia-africa.com). SATSA membership No. 1931, ATTA membership no. 20151, ATOL No. 6499 and ABTA No. W4093 PROTECTED.</span></span></p><p></p><p></p></div>
Central Japan's Takayama Matsuri Festival
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/central-japan-s-takayama-matsuri
2017-04-15T14:40:17.000Z
2017-04-15T14:40:17.000Z
Marian Goldberg
https://tripatini.com/members/MarianGoldberg
<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009128498,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009128498,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009128498?profile=original" /></a></p><p> </p><p>We arrived before 10 am, and our VIP group was hastily ushered to seats arranged right in front of one of the main <i>yatai</i> – a festival float on wheels, presented before Sakurayama Hachiman shrine, the main protector of the city since it’s enlargement in 1683.<br /> <br /> The elaborately decorated float was removed from the <i>Yatai Kaikan</i> (Festival Float Museum), just for this special occasion – The <strong><a href="http://www.hida.jp/english/events/takayama-festival">Takayama Matsuri</a><i><a href="http://www.hida.jp/english/events/takayama-festival"> </a></i></strong>(Takayama Festival) that takes place twice a year – October 9-10 and April 14-15 in the old city of <strong><a href="https://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/regional/gifu/takayama.html" target="_blank">Takayama</a></strong> in central Japan’s <strong>Gifu Prefecture</strong>. Considered among Japan’s three top and most beautiful festivals (the others being the <strong>Gion Matsuri</strong> in <strong>Kyoto</strong> and the <strong>Chichubu Matsuri</strong> in <strong>Saitama</strong>), it dates back 350 years, and on November 30, 2016, it was among the <a href="http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2016/12/01/national/unesco-heritage-list-adds-33-japanese-festivals-single-entry/#.WLFsCTvafb1">33 <strong>float festivals</strong> in Japan designated collectively as a <strong>UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage</strong></a>. <br /> <br /> The evening of October 9th, the first night, called <strong><i>yomatsuri</i></strong>, is quite dramatic. Eleven floats – all national “significant intangible cultural assets” – are pulled through the streets of the old town from 6 to 9 pm, aglow in the crimson light of nearly 100 traditional, oblong-shaped Cochin lanterns. However, our group was here for what can be considered an even greater highlight -- the<i> </i><strong><i><a href="http://karakuri.info/" target="_blank">karakuri ningyo</a></i></strong> (mechanical doll) performance (below). <br /> <br /> These sophisticated puppets – also “<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cultural_Property_(Japan)#Folk_Cultural_Properties" target="_blank">intangible folk cultural properties</a>” – are a specialty of central Japan (<strong>Chubu</strong> region). They were produced in great numbers in the 17th through<span style="font-size:10.8333px;"> </span>19th centuries. Sadly, many were destroyed during World War II, making the remaining dolls truly special. Their intricate and delicate movable body joints are considered the precursors of modern robots. The handlers require years of training to make them flip, dance and move their heads, conveying sincere emotion. The dolls themselves are true works of art, and today, Karakuri master <strong>Tamaya Shobei IX</strong>, whom I was honored to meet during the <strong>Aichi Expo</strong> in <strong>Nagoya</strong> in 2005, even has a doll in the collection of the <strong>British Museum</strong>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009128895,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009128895,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009128895?profile=original" /></a></p><p><br /> First the mayor and other officials spoke, and then the music and <em>karakuri</em> performance began. The puppets greeted us with smiles and gymnastic tricks along the perimeter of the Yatai, with their handlers maneuvering them from inside. Their performance was enhanced by the sounds of <strong><i>shakuhachi</i></strong> flute and <strong><i>taiko</i></strong> drumming. It lasted for about half an hour and was quite entertaining. Afterwards, I had a chance to talk to one of the doll manipulators, who began training as a child and now trains other neighborhood children. He revered the festival with pride, noting that he and his younger apprentices actually practice in a back room of a nearby teahouse!<br /></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009129871,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009129871,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009129871?profile=original" /></a></p><p><br /> Moving on, we explored the grounds of <strong>Sakurayama Hachiman </strong>shrine and then proceeded along the main street, interacting with volunteer guides on an international sister-city exchange program, as well as: local craft vendors, youth performers in traditional costume, and even yatai handlers – paused from their work, happily smiling for photographs.<br /></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009129290,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009129290,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009129290?profile=original" /></a></p><p><br /> We saw all eleven floats up close, with their unique karakuri dolls, and we even spied numerous incarnations of <strong><i>sarubobo</i></strong> – the red, faceless, humanoid dolls that are the mascot of Takayama – progenitors of good fortune and good marriage.<br /> <br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009129680,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009129680,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009129680?profile=original" /></a></p><p><br /> The fall festival is a celebration of <strong>Sakurayama</strong> <strong><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hachiman_shrine">Hachiman Shrine</a></strong>, while the Ssring festival celebrates <strong>Hie Shrine</strong>, on the opposite side of the city. <strong>Sakurayama Hachimangu</strong> dates from the time of the <strong>Emperor Nintoku</strong> (413-439), when he summoned <strong>Prince Takefurukuma-no-mikoto</strong> to subjugate the monster <strong>Ryoumen Sukuna</strong>, an incredible beast with two heads, four arms, and four legs. Before undertaking on his task, Prince Takefurukuma-no-mikoto enshrined his father, the <strong>Emperor Ojin</strong>, as the deity of this sanctuary, and prayed for the success of his mission.<br /></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009130463,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009130463,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009130463?profile=original" /></a></p><p> </p><p>Today, more than 1,500,000 people visit Sakurayama Hachimangu annually – from around Japan and around the world -- especially during the festival! </p><p></p><p>Takayama City is part of the Shoryudo region of central Japan. For more information on this region visit <a href="http://shoryudo.go-centraljapan.jp/en/about/index.html." target="_blank">Shoryudo.Go-CentralJapan.jp</a>. </p><p></p></div>
Costa Rica's Whale & Dolphin Festival, September 2014
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/whale-dolphin-festival-2014-costa-rica
2014-08-29T18:06:54.000Z
2014-08-29T18:06:54.000Z
Danny Solano Alvarez
https://tripatini.com/members/DannySolanoAlvarez
<div><p style="text-align:justify;"><a title="Marino Ballena National Park" href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/location/national-parks.html" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8683" alt="Humpback whale in ballena marine national park" src="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/whale-in-ballena-marine-national-park.jpg" height="427" width="640" /></a> <br /> <br /> The <a title="Festival of Whales & Dolphins in Costa Rica" href="http://www.festivaldeballenasydelfines.com/" target="_blank"><b>Festival of Whales & Dolphins</b></a> is once again making a splash at <a title="Uvita Beach in Costa Rica" href="http://ballenatales.com/costa-ballena-4/uvita/" target="_blank"><strong>Uvita Beach</strong></a> in Southern <a class="zem_slink" title="Costa Rica" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.93333333333,-84.0833333333&spn=10.0,10.0&q=9.93333333333,-84.0833333333%20(Costa%20Rica)&t=h" target="_blank">Costa Rica</a> at the beginning of <b>September.</b></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/news-blog/139-whale-dolphin-festival-2014-comes-to-southern-costa-rica.html"><img class="align-left" src="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Whale-Humpback-Whale-in-Costa-Rica-300x225.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Whale-Humpback-Whale-in-Costa-Rica-300x225.jpg?width=300" /></a>You definitely don’t want to miss the 6<sup>th</sup> annual festival marking the <b>peak of the annual migration of Pacific <a class="zem_slink" title="Humpback whale" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humpback_whale" target="_blank">Humpback Whales</a> to the <a title="Ballena National Marine Park in Costa Rica" href="http://www.costarica-nationalparks.com/ballenanationalmarinepark.html" target="_blank">Ballena National Marine Park</a> in Costa Rica</b>. This year’s <b>2014 Festival of Whales & Dolphins</b> will be held over the two weekends of <b>Sept. 5-7</b> and <b>Sept. 12-14</b>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><b>Festival a</b><b>ctivities</b> will include whale-watching tours, a beach run, mountain biking race, sand-sculpture contests, photography exhibits, concerts, environmental workshops, crafts and food sales. A 6k and 10k <b>beach run</b> will be held in the national park on Sept. 6, and the <b>mountain biking race</b> takes place on Sept. 7.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The Ballena (“whale”) National Marine Park covers 110 hectares of land and 5,375 marine hectares, and was created in 1989 as the <b>first marine park in Latin America.</b> It is an <b>important sanctuary for migrating humpback whales</b>, pilot whales and false orca whales; resident Pacific Spotted, Common and Bottlenose dolphins; along with stingrays, hammerhead sharks, and several kinds of sea turtles. The whale refuge is <b>famous for its sandbar isthmus</b> formed perfectly into the <b>shape of a large whale’s tail</b>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.portasol.cr/"><img class="align-right" src="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Ballena-National-Marine-Park-300x207.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Ballena-National-Marine-Park-300x207.jpg?width=300" /></a>Whale watching in Costa Rica</b> lasts from <b>August to October</b> for southern Pacific Humpback Whales from Antartica (the largest population), and from <b>December to April</b> for northern humpbacks from Alaska. The endangered whales swim thousands of miles to the shallow, warm coastal waters of the Ballena National Marine Park to reproduce and give birth.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Biologists consider the protected area <b>a perfect setting between the northern and southern hemispheres for the birth of new marine life</b>. The park is located in what is known as the <b>Costa Rica Thermal Convection Dome</b>, a large “bubble” of shallow, oxygen-rich warm water layered over the top of colder water with less oxygen. The conditions create an ideal habitat for marine life.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.portasol.cr/"><img class="align-left" src="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Whale-Dolphins-by-Uvita-300x150.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Whale-Dolphins-by-Uvita-300x150.jpg?width=300" /></a>The <a title="Costa Rica sustainable community at Portasol" href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/community.html" target="_blank"><b>Costa Rica sustainable community</b></a> of <a title="Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living community in Costa Rica" href="http://portasol.cr/en/" target="_blank"><b>Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living</b></a>, in the coastal mountains between <a title="Manuel Antonio National Park by Portasol" href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/location/national-parks.html" target="_blank"><b>Manuel Antonio National Park</b></a> and <a title="Dominical and nearby beaches to Portasol" href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/location/nearby-beaches.html" target="_blank"><b>Dominical</b></a>, is offering a <b><a title="Portasol promotions on Facebook" href="https://www.facebook.com/portasol/" target="_blank">special promotion</a> in their <a title="Vacation bungalows at Portasol" href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/lodging.html" target="_blank">vacation bungalows</a> during whale-watching season</b>. Stay two nights, with full breakfast included, and receive a whale-watching tour for two persons.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Portasol offers <a title="Costa Rica property for sale at Portasol" href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/properties.html" target="_blank"><b>Costa Rica property for sale</b></a> and tourism hospitality with unique <a title="Vacation bungalows at Portasol" href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/lodging.html" target="_blank"><b>vacation rentals</b></a>. Stay in one of Portasol’s vacation bungalows or Costa Rica homes for rent while you explore the southern Pacific region of Costa Rica.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><b>Article by <a title="Follow writer Shannon Farley on Google+" href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+ShannonFarley/posts" target="_blank">Shannon Farley</a></b></p><p></p></div>
Aromatic Rice Festival of the Thai in Mai Chau
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/aromatic-new-rice-festival-of-the-thai-in-mai-chau
2016-01-05T14:00:00.000Z
2016-01-05T14:00:00.000Z
Mai Chau Ecolodge
https://tripatini.com/members/MaiChauEcolodge
<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009114455,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009114455,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009114455?profile=original" /></a></p><div><br /><p>For the Thai, an ethnic group living mainly on wet rice cultivation, the new rice festival is one of the biggest ceremonies in the year. Held in lunar August after harvesting time, the rite, called Worship, marks the end of a production cycle and prays ancestors’ blessing a bumper crop. </p><div>Worship, which is held for a day within a clan, is a chance for a family line to offer new rice to gods and its ancestors, expressing their gratitude to them, praying for their support for good health, peace and prosperity for all family members. It is also an occasion for family gathering. As family members are reunited during the New Rice Festival, grandparents and parents teach their offspring to follow their ethical codes.</div><div><br /> Usually, brothers of a family line will host the worship in turn. It is not necessarily held on a fixed date but on a good one decided by the hosting family.</div><br /> The ceremony starts with the hostess who wears a red or yellow flower-patterned costume, a silver bracelet and a brocade bag containing jewelry and two wild boar tusks at the bottom, standing in front of the family altar, inviting ancestors to the ceremony. She then climbs a ladder to take bunches of ripe rice from the story below the ceiling and places them on a bamboo bed. Family members then carry the rice from the stilt-house downstairs, purposely taking four or five rests while doing this, which implies that the family has yielded a lot of rice. </div><div> </div><div>The hostess then husks and pounds the rice and dyes it with different colors, using traditional plants like saffron or black sticky rice. After being dyed, rice is cooked into a colorful dish as an offering for the worship.<br /></div><div>Another indispensable offering of the veneration is sour salted fish, a meticulous dish which is prepared months before the rite. On the date of the rite, the hostess mixes the salted fish with rice flour and wraps them in banana leaves tied with bamboo strings. The number of bamboo strings must be odd according to the Thai custom. The number of bamboo strings also shows the social ranks of family lines: the higher the number, the higher rank the family line. For example, nine strings are for the aristocratic Ha Cong family, seven strings for the Ha Van, and five or three for families of lower status.<br /></div><div><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009115062,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009115062,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-full" alt="9009115062?profile=original" /></a></div><div>Other offerings of the worship include a jar of ruou can (rice wine drunk through stalks), a big grilled fish and dried meat of wild animals mixed with sliced banana flower. The Thai never kills domestic animals for offering. The group’s legend tells that in the old time when humans and animals understood their languages, a Thai couple planned to kill their hen to make offering to ancestors. The hen heard this plan and tearfully said last farewells to her chicks. The chicks sobbed at the sad news. Learning this, the couple decided not to kill the hen.<br /></div><div>After being prepared, offerings for this rite are put on a tray placed on the floor in front of the altar. The worship is conducted by a sorcerer who stands near the ruou can jar with one foot on a chair and the other on the floor, inviting the ancestors to the ceremony. With a fan in one hand and a stalk for drinking ruou can in the other, the sorcerer recites prayers which tell the tale of the Thai’s hardship to make rice, from reclaiming land, building irrigation to growing and harvesting rice. While the sorcerer is praying, girls demonstrate the act of pounding rice with pestles at the house gable. Closing the praying formality, the host kowtows in front of the altar to show his respect and sincerity towards gods and ancestors and ask for their support for his family, clan and village.<br /></div><div>Before all members of the clan have a feast together, the hostess brings some fish and rice for domestic animals; especially the buffalo which directly helps make the crop. This act shows the Thai’s gratitude toward the animals as well as their wish for the animals’ well-being. Each farming tool also has some sticky rice and meat hung on it.</div><div>While having the feast where children are favored to eat first and have good food, family members drink ruou can and have responsive singing all day long. After the party, young people go to the forest or down the stream in groups or couple, picking up forest fruits or chatting. This is an important community activity of the ceremony showing feeling and aspiration of young people.<br /></div></div>
8 of New Orleans' Best Festivals
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/new-orleans-louisiana-best-festivals
2016-12-05T12:29:06.000Z
2016-12-05T12:29:06.000Z
Ann Hoge
https://tripatini.com/members/AnnHoge
<div><p>For a fun and authentic New Orleans experience, all you have to do is attending a local festival. And in the home of Mardi Gras, you don’t have to try too hard to do that. Festival season is a year-round in the festival capital of the world, celebrating everything from NOLA’s best eats to music and culture.<br /> <br /> So here are eight other New Orleans’s festivals worth making the trip down south for.</p><p> </p><p><b>Sing Along at a Music Festival</b></p><p><b> </b></p><p>The <a href="https://blog.ihg.com/new-orleans-jazz-scene">birthplace of jazz</a> knows how to produce award-winning musicians and keep guests dancing the night away with the best live sounds of jazz, R&B, Cajunand more at its numerous music festivals.<b> <br /> <br /></b></p><p><b><i><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009105674,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="580" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009105674,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009105674?profile=original" /></a></i></b><span class="font-size-1"><em> photo: <a href="https://flic.kr/p/efExeD">Derek Bridges/Flickr</a></em></span></p><p align="center"></p><p><b><a href="http://fqfi.org/frenchquarter">French Quarter Festival<br /></a></b> <b><i>April 6-9, 2017</i></b></p><p><br /> Concentrating on hometown music and food, the French Quarter Festival provides hundreds of entertaining hours of music performed on more than 20 stages throughout the French Quarter. During this four-day event, there are also food and drink booths and children activities to please the whole family. It’s the biggest free music festival in the South, so you know it’s good.</p><p><b><i> </i></b></p><p><b><i><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009105885,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="580" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009105885,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009105885?profile=original" /></a></i></b><span class="font-size-1"><em> photo: <a href="https://flic.kr/p/c9nFod">Takahiro Kyono/Flickr</a></em></span></p><p align="center"></p><p><b><a href="http://www.nojazzfest.com/">New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival<br /></a></b> <em><b>April 28-May 7, 2017</b></em><br /> <br /> Jazz got its start in NOLA, so it only makes sense the locals spend a week celebrating the soulful and smooth sounds of this music genre. For more than 40 years now, music enthusiasts from around the world travel to the Fair Grounds Race Course to hear the creative sounds - from soothing to challenging - of legendary music lineups.</p><p><b><i> </i></b></p><p><b><i><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009106301,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="580" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009106301,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009106301?profile=original" /></a></i></b><span class="font-size-1"><em> photo: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/essence/photos/a.425881757854.201168.68771922854/10154318200137855/?type=3&theater">Essence Facebook</a></em></span></p><p></p><p><b><a href="http://www.essence.com/festival">Essence Music Festival</a><i><a href="http://www.essence.com/festival"><br /></a></i></b> <b><i>June/July 2017</i></b></p><p><br /> This annual summer festival celebrates African-American music and culture. It started as a music festival, but has grown into a national celebration of music, authors, speakers and comedians. Attend motivational seminars during the day, and then energeticconcerts at night. Big names who have performed in the Superdome in years past include Kendrick Lamar, Ciara and Charlie Wilson.</p><p> </p><p><b>Get Crafty at an Art or Film Festival<br /> <br /></b> Whether you’re a creative thinker or just appreciate those who are, strolling through the Arts District or watching a film premiere with Hollywood celebrities is the perfect way to celebrate the Big Easy's art scene.<br /> </p><p><a href="http://cacno.org/afas"><b><i> </i></b></a></p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009106085,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="580" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009106085,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009106085?profile=original" /></a></b><span class="font-size-1"><em> photo: <a href="https://flic.kr/p/dhTYWV">Infrogmation of New Orleans/Flickr</a></em></span></p><p></p><p><b><a href="http://cacno.org/afas">Art for Arts’ Sake</a><i><a href="http://cacno.org/afas"><br /></a></i></b> <b><i>October 2017</i></b></p><p><br /> Started by the Contemporary Arts Center, this one-day fall festival is the chicest of them all. Spend your day gallery-hopping along Julia Street and Magazine Street, then your evening enjoying new exhibits and musical performances at the Contemporary Arts Center. Admission to each gallery is free, and some of the downtown restaurants also offer dinner and drink specials during this festival.</p><p><b><i> </i></b></p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296618887,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="580" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296618887,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9296618887?profile=original" /></a></b><span class="font-size-1"><em> photo: <a href="http://neworleansfilmsociety.org/pages/detail/147/new-orleans-film-festival">neworleansfilmsociety.org</a></em></span></p><p></p><p><b><a href="http://www.neworleansfilmfest.com/">New Orleans Film Festival</a><i><a href="http://www.neworleansfilmfest.com/"><br /></a></i></b> <b><i>October 2017</i></b></p><p><br /> Join thousands of producers, directors, writers and well-known actors at one of the USA's major film festivals. Applaud the art of film by being one of the few to watch a premiere of a full-length feature or a film screening of a short film.Films are shown in different venues throughout New Orleans, and admission prices vary.</p><p> </p><p><b>Fatten Up at a Food Festival<br /> <br /></b> If there’s one thing you come to Louisiana for, it should be Big Easy flavor. From po’ boys to seafood and Creole tomatoes, New Orleans food festivals are real taste bud pleasers.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009107270,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="579" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009107270,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009107270?profile=original" /></a></b><span class="font-size-1"><em> photo: <a href="https://flic.kr/p/bY8E4y">New Orleans/Flickr</a></em></span></p><p><b><br /> <a href="http://nowfe.com/">New Orleans Wine & Food Experience</a><i><a href="http://nowfe.com/"><br /></a></i></b> <b><i>May 2017</i></b></p><p><br /> This culinary celebration is considered a rite of passage in New Orleans. Typically more than 200 wineries and nearly a hundred of the city’s best restaurants participate. Join with the locals in raising your glass as you toast vintage wines, delicious NOLA eats and good company.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009107480,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="580" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009107480,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9009107480?profile=original" /></a></b><span class="font-size-1"><em> photo: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/NOLAOysterFest/photos/?ref=page_internal">The New Orleans Oyster Festival Facebook</a></em></span></p><p></p><p><b><a href="http://nolaoysterfest.org/">Oyster Festival</a><i><a href="http://nolaoysterfest.org/"><br /></a></i></b> <b><i>June 3-4, 2017</i></b></p><p><br /> Thousands of Louisiana oysters, live music and fun competitions make this two-day, outdoor event one you can’t pass up. Held in Woldenberg Park, test your luck at an oyster shucking or oyster eating contest, and then test your taste buds to find out which Gulf oyster and white wine combo is the palate-winning pair.<br /></p><p><b><a href="https://scontent.fdel1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/14915583_10154723709839173_5861311006653494717_n.jpg?oh=e94aef580054e92a45c7f3424b062d50&oe=58BE2856" target="_blank"><img src="https://scontent.fdel1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/14915583_10154723709839173_5861311006653494717_n.jpg?oh=e94aef580054e92a45c7f3424b062d50&oe=58BE2856" class="align-center" alt="14915583_10154723709839173_5861311006653494717_n.jpg?oh=e94aef580054e92a45c7f3424b062d50&oe=58BE2856" /></a></b><span class="font-size-1"><em>photo: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/jazznheritage/photos/?ref=page_internal">New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation Facebook</a></em></span></p><p></p><p><b><a href="http://www.jazzandheritage.org/treme-gumbo">Tremé Creole Gumbo Festival</a><i><a href="http://www.jazzandheritage.org/treme-gumbo"><br /></a></i></b> <b><i>November 2017</i></b></p><p><br /> Besides jazz and good seafood, New Orleans is known for having amelting pot culture. And the Tremé Creole Gumbo Festival is the perfect way to experience the different cultures living in the city—and who know how to cook up this delicious signature dish. Gather in Armstrong Park and be prepared to have all your senses heightened.</p><p> </p><p><b>Places to Stay<br /> <br /></b> After a day filled with food, music and fun, you need a comfortable place torest so you can do it all over again tomorrow. Below are some great choices that are allcharismatic, clean and near festival locations.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="https://www.ihg.com/hotelindigo/hotels/us/en/new-orleans/msyin/hoteldetail">Hotel Indigo New Orleans Garden<br /></a></b> <b><i>2203 St. Charles Ave.; </i></b><b><i>504-522-3650<br /><br /></i></b>Nestled in the beautiful Garden District, this boutique hotel serves up neighborhood charm while the friendly staff serves both people and pets. And it’s just over two miles from the French Quarter, so you’re removed from the noise but only a short trolley ride away from it.</p><p><b><i> </i></b></p><p><b><a href="http://www.hotelmazarin.com/">Hotel Mazarin</a><i><a href="http://www.hotelmazarin.com/"><br /></a></i></b> <b><i>730 Bienville St.; </i></b><b><i>504-581-7300<br /><br /></i></b>If you want to experience true Southern hospitality, stay at Hotel Mazarin. It’s elegant and comfortable, and although located in the French Quarter, many say it’s a peaceful and quiet stay.</p><p><b><i> </i></b></p><p><b><a href="http://www.bourbonorleans.com/">Bourbon Orleans Hotel</a><i><a href="http://www.bourbonorleans.com/"><br /></a></i></b><b><i>717 Orleans St.; </i></b><b><i>504-5223-2222</i></b><b><i> <br /><br /></i></b>Everything you’d want for your New Orleans visit; the staff is helpful and friendly, and the hotel’s French Quarter address puts it near historic sites, authentic cuisine and jazz music.</p><p><b><i> </i></b></p><p><b><a href="http://bienvillehouse.com/">Bienville House<br /></a></b><b><i>320 Decatur St.; </i></b><b><i>504-529-2345<br /><br /></i></b>This inn, which just had a recent multi-million dollar renovation, resides in the heart of the French Quarter and is the perfect location for those wanting to stay near Jackson Square. Offering premium accommodations and various room types and rates, it’s perfect for every type of traveler.</p><p></p></div>
Majorca and Its Many Summer Fiestas
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/majorca-and-its-many-summer-fiestas
2014-06-16T12:42:23.000Z
2014-06-16T12:42:23.000Z
Iberostar Hotels & Resorts
https://tripatini.com/members/IberostarHotelsResorts
<div><p><a href="http://passportto.iberostar.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ESP_mallorca_fiestas.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://passportto.iberostar.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ESP_mallorca_fiestas.jpg?width=639" width="639" class="align-center" alt="ESP_mallorca_fiestas.jpg?width=639" /></a></p><p><br />People go to Majorca in the summer in search of beautiful beaches and great weather, but if you are also looking for fiestas and local culture, summer is the perfect time to visit as there are all kinds of fiestas and events taking place on this beautiful and lively island! Many towns and villages have their own particular fiestas and open-air dances, not to mention music festivals where national groups and reputed international artists come to play.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:13px;">In Majorca, summer kicks off on the eve of </span><strong style="font-size:13px;">Sant Joan</strong><span style="font-size:13px;"> (Saint John’s Day) on 23 June, when people from all over the island celebrate on the beach, dancing around bonfires until dawn.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:13px;">The fiesta of the </span><strong style="font-size:13px;">Virgen del Carmen</strong><span style="font-size:13px;"> in July is especially striking, when thousands of boats adorned with colorful streamers set sail one after the other in procession, making a wonderful sight for those watching from the ports and boardwalks.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:13px;">In August, the beautiful town of </span><strong style="font-size:13px;">Pollença</strong><span style="font-size:13px;"> holds fiestas in honor of its patron saint </span><strong style="font-size:13px;"><em>la Mare de Deu dels Ángels</em></strong><span style="font-size:13px;"> (Our Lady of Angels), where the main attraction is the recreation of a battle between the </span><strong style="font-size:13px;">Moors and the Christians</strong><span style="font-size:13px;">. The first event is held at five in the morning in the town’s main square, when the Banda de Música de Pollença (Pollença Music Group) start the dawn chorus. The most highly anticipated moment is in the afternoon – the commemoration of the battle that took place in 1550 in which the Pollençans, led by Joan Mas, defeated the Dragut pirates. It is probably one of the summer’s most exciting fiestas.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:13px;">In </span><strong style="font-size:13px;">Alcudia,</strong><span style="font-size:13px;"> the fiesta of </span><strong style="font-size:13px;">Sant Bartomeu </strong><span style="font-size:13px;">(Saint Bartholomew) is celebrated in a very special way, with the </span><strong style="font-size:13px;"><em>Festa de les llanternes</em></strong><span style="font-size:13px;"> (Festival of lanterns). Young people walk through the medieval streets holding lanterns made of melons and watermelons and singing traditional Majorcan songs.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:13px;">In </span><strong style="font-size:13px;">Calvià</strong><span style="font-size:13px;">, at the beginning of September, are the </span><strong style="font-size:13px;">Fiestas del Rey Jaime I</strong><span style="font-size:13px;">, (Fiestas of King James I), which commemorate </span><strong style="font-size:13px;">the disembarkation of the Christian ships on the Santa Ponça beach</strong><span style="font-size:13px;"> in 1229. Among the most remarkable of the fiesta’s events are the recreation of the fight between the Moors and the Christians, the parades of “giants and figures with big-heads” and the medieval markets.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:13px;">In September, in </span><strong style="font-size:13px;">Binissalem</strong><span style="font-size:13px;"> – land of good wine – the end of the harvest season is celebrated in style. The end of summer is marked not only with wine but also with delicious </span><strong style="font-size:13px;"><em>Fideus de Vermar</em></strong><span style="font-size:13px;"> (“grape harvest vermicelli”), an old recipe made with tasty lamb.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:13px;">And these are just some of the many fiestas that take place on this beautiful island. As you can see, summer in Majorca is a lot of fun! It’s impossible to get bored!</span></p><blockquote><p> </p><p><em>“The </em><a href="http://www.iberostar.com/hoteles/mallorca"><strong><em>IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts</em></strong><em> in Majorca</em></a> bring guests closer to the <strong>most exciting experiences</strong><em> that can be had on the largest Balearic island. The superb location of the IBEROSTAR hotels in Majorca, spread across the island, offer an <strong>unmatchable opportunity</strong> to discover all its secrets.”</em></p><p></p></blockquote></div>
New York Travel Festival Heads to Brooklyn April 14-17
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/new-york-travel-festival-heads-to-brooklyn-april-14-17
2016-04-07T16:32:55.000Z
2016-04-07T16:32:55.000Z
Michele Herrmann
https://tripatini.com/members/MicheleHerrmann
<div><p></p><p style="text-align:center;"></p><p></p><p>The 4th Annual <a href="http://nytravfest.com/" target="_blank">New York Travel Festival</a> is coming to Brooklyn this month! This unique festival features an assortment of events and activities focusing on current travel trends, unique destinations, technologies, industry strategies, and more. In addition to two full days of speaking events, workshops, discussions and presentations on April 16 and 17, events will also be held on April 14-15, featuring local Brooklyn travel businesses and presentations by Brooklyn’s Borough President. The NY Trav Fest is a place for Industry professionals, startups, media, and savvy travelers to engage, share and learn. Tickets are available now.</p><p> </p><p><b>Thursday, April 14th - location: Rocco's Tacos</b></p><p>This special outer boroughs event is for industry professionals to learn about and discuss the travel trends in NYC’s communities. The full day will include presentations from representatives from New York’s boroughs such as the Bronx and Brooklyn; conversations with leading travel and media companies about important travel trends; advice on how to attract attention to products; a buffet lunch of Rocco's Tacos during curated meetings with other industry members; workshops on how to use social media, online events, new(er) platforms (e.g. Instagram, Periscope and Snapchat) and other methods of online thought leadership; workshops on coordinating with media; and a chance to connect with like-minded people.</p><p> </p><p><b>Friday, April 15 - location: Brooklyn Borough Hall</b><br /> Travel Unity Summit, produced in partnership with Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams, will focus on economic development through tourism and hospitality. Key highlights include a speech from Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams, networking events, a delicious lunch, and more. Note: Advanced registration is required to attend.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p><b>Saturday & Sunday, April 16th & 17th - location: St. Francis College</b></p><p>Saturday and Sunday will be filled with workshops, panels, presentations and discussions on digital marketing best practices, emerging markets, entrepreneurship, best uses of media, creating diversity, sustainability in the tourism industry and more. Don’t miss Meet, Plan, Go!’s workshop on sabbatical and career break travel, as well as workshops on the best use of devices and apps like smartphone-piloted drones and Periscope. There will be catered lunches, entertainment, and networking opportunities on both days.</p><p> </p><p>Tickets are now on sale:</p><p> </p><ul><li>$160 All-Access Tickets providing full access to all panels, workshops, discussions, expert sessions and networking events</li><li>$60 for Thursday-Only (Outer) Boroughs Industry Track Ticket</li><li>$45 for Weekend Traveler Tickets</li><li>$35 for Saturday or Sunday-Only Tickets</li></ul><p> </p><p>To order tickets, visit <a href="http://nytravfest.com/tickets" target="_blank">http://nytravfest.com/tickets.</a></p><p> </p><p><b><u>TICKET TYPES</u></b></p><p><b>Traveler Tickets</b> allow for the following access:</p><ul><li><b>Traveler Sessions</b> - Panels and speakers focusing on hot topics in tourism, from destinations to discussions for those concerned about their travel footprint, plus sessions aimed at individuals looking to make travel a deeper part of their lives through career opportunities in the travel/tourism industry, careers abroad or longer-term travel</li><li><b>Startup/Tech Sessions -</b> Panels and speakers talking about the latest in travel tech, as well as key strategies for starting or pivoting travel businesses</li></ul><p> </p><p><b>All-Access Passes</b> provide access to the above sessions, plus:</p><ul><li><b>Marketing Workshops</b> - Sessions led by industry experts on best practices in marketing for 2016 and beyond</li><li><b>Startup Workshops</b> - Intimate sessions focused on building/pivoting travel businesses</li><li><b>Travel Unity/Social Good Workshops</b> - Meetups focused on thoughtful travel, as well as industry and personal responsibility</li><li><b>Media Workshops</b> - Intended for anyone in the media and looking to utilize media for branding, marketing and other travel industry-related purposes</li><li>VIP invites to Festival Week and other networking events<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009049253,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009049253,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009049253?profile=original" /></a></li></ul></div>
St. Augustine, Florida Celebrates 450 (!) Years
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/st-augustine-florida-450-anniversary
2015-09-17T18:00:00.000Z
2015-09-17T18:00:00.000Z
David Paul Appell
https://tripatini.com/members/DavidPaulAppell16
<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008997069,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008997069,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" name="campaign-icon" id="campaign-icon" alt="9008997069?profile=original" /></a></p>
<p><br /> The lands which were to become the <strong>United States</strong><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>and<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>Canada</strong><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>were largely settled by the English, but not everyone is aware that the continental USA’s oldest continuously occupied city, <strong>St. Augustine</strong><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>in northeast<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>Florida</strong>, was founded by explorers from<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>Spain</strong><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>450 years ago this month. And in returning to attend the big birthday bash it's been throwing for itself (above), I was smitten once again with what is one of this country's most fascinating historic visits (with great<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>St. Augustine beaches</strong><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>thrown in) any time of year. <br />
<br />
Though the area had been scoped out in 1513 by<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>Juan Ponce de León</strong>, in search of the legendary “fountain of youth,” an actual settlement wasn’t founded here until 1565. Named after<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>St. Augustine of Hippo </strong>(on whose feast day land was sighted by the expedition of<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>Pedro Menéndez de Avilés,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></strong>an admiral from city of<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>Avilés</strong> in <strong>Asturias, Spain</strong>), for centuries this remained a military garrison town, constantly defending against attacks from pirates, local tribes, and European rivals such as the French and especially the English (in fact, the Brits governed here for 20 years in the 18th century), before finally being ceded by treaty to the young United States in 1819.<br />
<br />
That has left this small city (population just 13,000) with a wealth of fascinating sites to experience, most of them concentrated in the historic core on<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>Matanzas Bay</strong><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>called<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>Old Town</strong>. I had visited long ago, when I was a kid, and though I retained some fond longstanding impressions from way back then, when I very recently had the chance to revisit, I was doubly impressed – all the striking history and architecture was still there, of course, but complemented by a raft of new attractions, dining, lodging, and shopping that truly turn St. Augustine into a Florida must.</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008997262,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img height="240" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008997262,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="320" alt="9008997262?profile=original" /></a><br /> Old Town is anchored by rectangular<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>Plaza de la Constitución</strong> on the bay (named not for the U.S. Constitution but Spain's of 1812). Landmarks here include the handsome <strong>Cathedral Basilica</strong>, built in 1797 and reconstructed in the late 19th century. Between the cathedral and the waterfront (specifically, the<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>Bridge of Lions</strong> (right), presided over by a pair of male overgrown kitty statues, to the portion of the city on<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>Anastasia Island</strong>) is a smallish pavilion with a checkered past. The <strong>Old Market</strong><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>was built for the buying and selling of produce and other goods and property, along with African slaves – and was built not under the Spaniards or British, but in the 1840, after the USA took over. Also here is an obelisk to Confederate war dead (of which I am not a fan - after all, they were traitors to the USA) and another monument to the black civil rights movement, which saw some major events and actions that helped boost the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. <br />
<br />
At least three main streets radiating out from this plaza are chock full of landmarks (including some three dozen colonial-era buildings), museums, shops, restaurants, and more:</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter" alt="Avilés Street, Old Town St. Augustine" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296604881,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="491" width="737" /></p>
<p><strong><br /> Avilés Street <br />
<br />
</strong> A relatively short cobblestone lane (above) that’s the oldest public street in the city (and therefore the country). In addition to little shops and restaurants, historic highlights along the lane include the <strong>Spanish Military Hospital Museum</strong> (a fascinating look at colonial-era medicine and life; the <strong>Father O’Reilly House Museum</strong> (the home of the colony’s first priest, also with exhibitions about St. Augustine’s Catholic heritage), and the fascinating <strong>Ximenez-Fatio House </strong>(which for most of its history was a boarding house -arguably the origin of the hospitality industry as such, and preserved with period furnishings).</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter" alt="Lightner Museum, St. Augustine" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008998064,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="491" width="737" /><br /> <br />
<br />
<strong>King Street <br />
<br />
</strong> West of Plaza de la Constitución along this street, you shortly come to a pair of grand buildings right across from each other. The 1887 former Hotel Alcazar is now the <strong>Lightner Museum</strong> (above, with a local guide dressed as a Spanish conquistador), which besides housing an large, classy collection of antiquities also shows off parts of its past life, such as the Turkish baths.</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008998666,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img height="240" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008998666,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-left" width="320" alt="9008998666?profile=original" /></a>Across the street,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>Flagler College</strong>, the onetime Ponce de Leon Hotel of the same era, became a well-respected institution in 1968. It’s worth ducking into the entrance hall and cafeteria behind it for an eyeful of the elaborate ceilings, windows, and floors.<br /> <br />
And if you have time, next door to the Lightner is a curious bit of business called <strong>Villa Zorayda</strong> (left), built in 1883 by an eccentric Boston millionaire inspired by the Moorish <strong>Alhambra</strong> of <strong>Granada</strong>; it later did a stint as a casino, and today houses a sometimes quirky and frequently fascinating collection of Orientalia and other art and furniture.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>St. George Street<br />
<br />
</strong> One of the busiest streets in Old Town is this one, running north out of Plaza de la Constitución, because it has the most tourist-oriented shops, restaurants, and other establishments. Still, it’s a charmer, and worth popping into for example the 1750 <strong>Peña-Peck House</strong>, another house-museum of the 19th- and early-20th-century periods. Here, too, is the cute, atmospheric <strong>Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse</strong>, a highly rustic shack of cypress and cedar.</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296605458,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img height="240" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296605458,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-right" width="320" alt="9296605458?profile=original" /></a>Owned by<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>Pat Croce</strong>, former president of the Philadelphia 76ers basketball team as well as TV commentator (and a very affable, colorful character, I can tell you from personal experience), there are a pair of ersatz attractions on St. George Street, as well, but very well done.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>Colonial Quarter</strong> aims to recreate local life in the 1740s. Just down the street from this is the multimedia <strong>Pirate Soul Museum.</strong> Slightly Disneyesque but very well curated, kids will love it and adults will find pretty interesting too (I first saw the museum when it was located in Key West, and in this new iteration Pat has absolutely outdone himself; he’s especially proud, he told me, of having one of three authentic “Jolly Roger” flags and the only bona fide “pirate’s chest” left in the world).<br /> <br />
At the end of the street, hang a right and you’ll find yourself at what in many ways is St. Augustine’s <em>pièce de résistance</em>: the <strong>Castillo San Marcos</strong> (below), a doughty stone fortress dating from the 1760s and very similar to its brethren in Havana, San Juan, Cartagena, and other Spanish colonies. Operated as a national park site, it’s endlessly photogenic (when I was there, biker gang members were clowning around on the rampart cannons, go figure), and offers quite interesting exhibits as well as re-enactors in period costumer. (If you have time, a fairly short drive out of town gets you to the much smaller <strong>Fort Matanzas</strong> outpost). <br />
<br />
<a href="http://love2fly.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/L2F-Jan-15-pic-USA-St-Augustine-Castillo-San-Marco-DPA.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://love2fly.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/L2F-Jan-15-pic-USA-St-Augustine-Castillo-San-Marco-DPA.jpg?width=737" class="align-center" width="737" alt="L2F-Jan-15-pic-USA-St-Augustine-Castillo-San-Marco-DPA.jpg?width=737" /></a><br />
<br />
<strong>Other Must-See St. Augustine Attractions<br />
<br />
</strong> Ho, we’re not done yet, me hearties. Elsewhere in the central area of town you’ll find a 15-acre (six-hectare) kind of St. Augustine theme park called the <strong>Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park</strong>, built around the site of the earliest settlement and including a number of interesting historical and archaeological exhibits, as well as recreated Indian village and Spanish mission, and pretty out into the surrounding marshes. along the shore.</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008999084,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img height="320" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008999084,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-left" width="240" alt="9008999084?profile=original" /></a>South of the Lightner Museum, the<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>González-Alvarez House</strong> dates back to the early 18th century and is the eponymous central component of the<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>Oldest House Museum,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></strong>which also includes two other colonial-era houses, an exhibition gallery, and a charming garden. Over to the southwest, cocktail fans will get a kick out the the <strong>St. Augustine Distillery</strong>, a boutique operation which makes distinctive rum, vodka, and gin in a vintage power plant and gives rather good tours (including samples, of course, as well as running a way cool bar upstairs).<br /> <br />
Away from downtown, the <strong>Fort Mose Historic State Park</strong> is worth a visit for a pretty unusual side of local history: it was a stockade manned by former slaves escaped from the English Carolinas, offered citizenship by the Spaniards. The fort's long gone, but the visitors’ center and natural setting are well worth your time. <br />
<br />
So is, over on Anastasia Island, the <strong>St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum</strong>, a <strong>Smithsonian</strong>-affiliated complex with not just the striking 1870s lighthouse (left – OMG, what views!) but extremely well done exhibits and furnishings in the former lighthouse keepers’ quarters, and <strong>maritime archaeology</strong> facilities, as well. And as long as you’re out in this direction island, pop over to <strong>Fort Matanzas</strong>, much smaller than San Marcos, built in 1740.</p>
<p><strong><br /> Civil Rights History<br />
<br />
</strong> Last on the history tour is another more recent side to this city of which I was totally unaware – and in fact was pretty much locally ignored for many years. Events in St. Augustine in 1963 and 1964 gave the final push to congressional passage of the <strong>Civil Rights Act</strong>, and the background, context and story are expertly told by black-heritage tour guide Bernadette Reeves of <strong>Tour St. Augustine</strong>. The tale is inspiring and sometimes harrowing; if you’re interested in learning more, <a href="http://www.tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/st-augustine-florida-critical-in-america-s-black-history-too">I’ve written about this more in detail elsewhere</a>.</p>
<p></p>
<p><img width="737" height="491" class="aligncenter" alt="Ponte Vedra Beach" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296605471,original{{/staticFileLink}}" /></p>
<p><strong><br /> St. Augustine Beaches<br />
<br />
</strong> Oh, and it ain’t all history, either! To take a break on some very fetching, often quite uncrowded strands, head over the bridge to the coast, where you’ll find <strong>St. Augustine</strong>, <strong>Vilano Beach</strong>,<strong>Crescent</strong>, and <strong>Ponte Vedra</strong> beaches (above).<br />
<br />
<strong>St. Augustine Hotels<br />
<br />
</strong> Finally, when it comes to places to stay, the options I feel most in keeping with the character of this venerable city are the nearly 30 inns, guesthouses and bed-and-breakfasts in the Old Town. On my last visit I stayed at the <strong>Bayfront Marin House</strong> (yes, right on the bay), and was totally charmed by its combination of stylish rooms; tasty breakfasts; extremely friendly service; and convivial clientele which gathers in the courtyard for happy hour every day. <br />
<br />
Others fetching examples I saw included the <strong>Old City House Inn</strong> (also a marvelous restaurant) and the <strong>Casablanca Inn</strong>. There are larger, more full-service lodgings, as well, the most justly famous including the biggest in old town, <strong>Casa Monica</strong>, right next to the Lightner Museum (I was tickled to see a nod in the lobby to the visit of horndog former president and likely First, um, Gentleman <strong>Bill Clinton</strong> – Monica, indeed) and the <strong>Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront</strong>, once the <strong>Monson Motor Lodge</strong>, site of front-page-news civil rights actions in the early 1960s. <br />
<br />
Meanwhile, on this trip, I had a very different but no less superb experience staying several miles north of downtown at the huge <strong>World Golf Village Renaissance Hotel</strong>. This huge spread includes two championship links as well as the 301-room <strong>World Golf Hall of Fame</strong>. Heaven for golfers - and though I am not one, I found the resort's services and dining to be exceptional (great pool and spa, for example!). <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009000060,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="200" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009000060,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-right" alt="9009000060?profile=original" /></a><strong>St. Augustine 450 </strong><br />
<br />
The long weekend culminating Sept. 8, the actual anniversary, all of old town was decked out in Spanish flags and bunting, and packed with concerts, other cultural events, and street parties, as well as not one but two landing re-enactments - one at the Fountain of Youth park and the other at the next door <strong>Mission of Nombre de Dios</strong> (top). The latter came with a side of unscripted controversy when several <strong>Native Americans</strong> showed up with supporters in kayaks and floats (right) to protest commemorating an event that heralded the enslavement and genocide of their ancestors. Point taken - I do feel the organizers should have at least included an expression of regret on the founding's effect on this continent's <strong>First Nations</strong>. <br />
<br />
Round two of the commemoration came just this week, when Spain's new <strong>King Felipe</strong> and <strong>Queen Letizia</strong> came to town to attend a summit of the <span><strong>U.S.-Spain Council</strong>, get squired around to the historic highlights, and make a speech from a balcony overlooking Plaza de la Constitución. </span><br />
<br />
Whew - pinch me with a fork, I think I’m done – and I haven’t even gotten a fair number of other attractions, such as <strong>Marineland</strong>, the world's first <strong>Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museum</strong>, and the <strong>Old Jail</strong>. Bottom line: I can think of few other such small cities that pack in so much to experience. Call it my confession of St. Augustine.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<em>For more information on all the above, as well as more about the big 450th: <a href="http://www.floridashistoriccoast.com/">FloridasHistoricCoast.com</a>.</em></p>
<p></p>
<p><em><span class="font-size-1">images | <a href="http://www.tripatini.com/profile/DavidPaulAppell" target="_blank">DPA</a></span><br /> <br />
</em></p>
<p></p></div>
June in Portugal
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/june-in-portugal
2013-05-10T14:00:00.000Z
2013-05-10T14:00:00.000Z
Auto Europe
https://tripatini.com/members/AutoEurope
<div><p>Now is the best time to start planning a quick getaway in sunny Portugal. June is already the beginning of the high season, but still not plagued with the crowds of July and August, making it the perfect time for an escapade in southern lands. And least you should think that there's nothing more to be found in this lovely country other than beautiful beaches, let me prove you wrong. June is a time of celebration in Portugal and many cities and towns hold their annual festivals around this time.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008769071,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008769071,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-left" width="250" alt="9008769071?profile=original" /></a>Saint Anthony, the Patron Saint of <a href="http://www.autoeurope.co.uk/go/car-hire-lisbon/" target="_blank">Lisbon</a>, is celebrated on the night of the 12th of June with traditional street parties all around the capital. Representatives of each of the historic quarters of the city descent to the famous Liberdade Avenue for the "marchas", a sort of parade where they display folk dances in traditional clothing. Thousands gather to watch the performance and to cheer the winning group at the end. All around the city, local communities organize street parties with plenty of food and music to go around. In the historic quarters, particularly near the castle, it may be difficult to move around due to the insane amount of people out partying, but the energy and excitement are unparalleled and well worth it.</p><p>Sangria is the drink of choice, and you can't go through the night without trying the famous "sardinha no pão", grilled sardine eaten with bred, which is brilliant in its simplicity and betrays the country's strong ties to the sea.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008770255,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008770255,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-right" width="250" alt="9008770255?profile=original" /></a>If Lisbon shines in early June, the end of the month is <a href="http://www.autoeurope.co.uk/go/car-hire-porto/" target="_blank">Porto</a>'s time to celebrate. The capital of the north celebrates it's patron saint, Saint John, with festivities on the night of the 23rd of June, well into dawn on the 24th. Party goers have a choice of street gatherings all over the city, with open air concerts in several spots. Traditional hot air balloons are released into the sky and it's traditional for people to jump over the fires lit all around the city. Those who can manage to stay up all night normally walk all the way from Ribeira to Foz do Douro, where they can enjoy a glorious view of the sunrise from the beach.</p><p>And if you still have the energy after all the fun, you can easily go for a leisurely drive in the countryside, for a somewhat more relaxed entertainment.</p><p>We hope you found this article interesting! You are welcome to leave your comments or questions in the comments section below, or come pay us a visit on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AutoEuropeCarHireUK" target="_blank">Facebook</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/ae_carhire" target="_blank">Twitter</a> ;)</p></div>
Costa Rica Offers Fun Cultural Festivals All Year
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/costa-rica-offers-fun-cultural-festivals-all-year
2013-05-15T12:21:21.000Z
2013-05-15T12:21:21.000Z
Shannon Farley
https://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley
<div><p>One thing about Costa Rica is the country loves a good party! <a class="zem_slink" title="Costa Rica" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.93333333333,-84.0833333333&spn=10.0,10.0&q=9.93333333333,-84.0833333333%20%28Costa%20Rica%29&t=h" target="_blank">Costa Ricans</a> are known for being gregarious and fun-loving and their enthusiasm is contagious when the country celebrates its numerous fiestas, festivals and horse parades.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-tope.jpg"><img class="align-left" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-tope-300x200.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Fiesta-tope-300x200.jpg?width=300" /></a>Plan your travel to Costa Rica during these cultural events and experience first-hand the country’s rich local traditions, tasty cuisine, vibrant music, and sense of fun. Make new friends and have a grand time! Costa Rica’s summer season definitely is jam-packed with fiestas; besides the main festivals, every town and community has its own “turno” (a town festival or country fair) to enjoy. However, there are plenty of cultural events and celebrations during Green Season too.</p><p><a title="Team CRT travel experts in Costa Rica" href="http://www.costarica4u.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Team CRT</strong></a> – Costa Rica’s vacation experts – can help you design your <strong>Costa Rica vacation</strong> to fit in any of these cultural celebrations. Team CRT knows the best of the country, what to do and see, and they personalize it for you. Team CRT offers <a title="Team CRT vacation packages to Costa Rica" href="http://www.costarica4u.com/category/touristic-themes/most-popular-packages" target="_blank">vacation packages</a>, <a title="Destinations in Costa Rica with Team CRT" href="http://www.costarica4u.com/destinations-costa-rica" target="_blank">beach destinations</a>, <a title="Team CRT nature tour packages in Costa Rica" href="http://www.costarica4u.com/category/touristic-themes/nature" target="_blank">nature tours</a>, <a title="Team CRT adventure tour vacations in Costa Rica" href="http://www.costarica4u.com/category/touristic-themes/adventure" target="_blank">adventure tours</a>, <a title="Costa Rica spa vacations with Team CRT" href="http://www.costarica4u.com/category/touristic-themes/relaxation" target="_blank">relaxation vacations</a>, <a title="Team CRT family vacations in Costa Rica" href="http://www.costarica4u.com/category/touristic-themes/family-vacation" target="_blank">family vacations</a>, <a title="Honeymoon and wedding vacations in Costa Rica with Team CRT" href="http://www.costarica4u.com/category/touristic-themes/honeymoons-and-weddings" target="_blank">honeymoons</a>, <a title="Team CRT self-drive vacation packages in Costa Rica" href="http://www.costarica4u.com/category/touristic-themes/self-drive" target="_blank">Fly & Drive packages</a>, <a title="Team CRT sport fishing trips in Costa Rica" href="http://www.costarica4u.com/category/touristic-themes/sport-fishing" target="_blank">sport fishing trips</a>, <a title="Team CRT golf vacations in Costa Rica" href="http://www.costarica4u.com/category/touristic-themes/golf" target="_blank">golf vacations</a>, along with holiday packages to neighboring <a title="Team CRT vacations to Nicaragua and Panama" href="http://www.costarica4u.com/category/touristic-themes/nicaragua-and-panama-extensions" target="_blank">Panama and Nicaragua</a>.</p><p>Here’s our list of main festivals and cultural events in Costa Rica throughout the year. (Note: All bullfights in Costa Rica avoid harming the bulls; there is no bloodshed.)</p><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">January</span></strong><strong><br /></strong></p><ul><li><strong>New Year’s Day</strong> — National holiday.</li><li><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-palmares.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-palmares-300x225.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Fiesta-palmares-300x225.jpg?width=300" /></a>Fiestas Palmares (first 2 weeks of January)</strong> — Located in Palmares, near San Ramon in the Central Valley, these fiestas are some of the largest in the country. Featuring: a huge horse parade, bullfights, rodeo, live music concerts, dancing, rides and games, local foods, shopping.</li><li><strong>Fiestas Santa Cruz (week of Jan 15)</strong> — Set in Santa Cruz on the <a class="zem_slink" title="Nicoya Peninsula" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=10.0,-85.4166667&spn=1.0,1.0&q=10.0,-85.4166667%20%28Nicoya%20Peninsula%29&t=h" target="_blank">Nicoya Peninsula</a>, these fiestas follow the <a class="zem_slink" title="Guanacaste Province" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=10.4333333333,-85.4&spn=1.0,1.0&q=10.4333333333,-85.4%20%28Guanacaste%20Province%29&t=h" target="_blank">Guanacaste</a> cowboy traditions with bullfights, rodeo, a horse parade, and a party with food, concerts and fireworks.</li><li><strong><a class="zem_slink" title="Copa del Cafe" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Copa_del_Cafe" target="_blank">Copa del Cafe</a> (Mid-January)</strong> — Week-long international youth (under 18) tennis tournament at the Costa Rica Country Club in <a class="zem_slink" title="Escazú, Costa Rica" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Escaz%C3%BA%2C_Costa_Rica" target="_blank">Escazu</a> (San Jose).</li></ul><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">February</span></strong></p><ul><li><strong>Ash Wednesday</strong> — Given Costa Rica’s strong Catholic faith, this is a sacred day throughout the country.</li><li><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-liberia.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-liberia.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Fiesta-liberia.jpg?width=300" /></a>Puntarenas Carnival (last week of February)</strong> — A week of local celebrations in the Pacific port town of Puntarenas: street fairs and fiestas, music, dancing, food and sporting events.<strong><br /></strong></li><li><strong>Liberia Fiestas (last week of Feb)</strong> – Biggest Guanacaste fiestas with a horse parade, bullfights, rodeo, musical concerts, dancing, food, rides and games. </li><li><strong>Monteverde Music Festival (February-March)</strong> – Top Costa Rican musicians and artists perform various concerts from the end of February to the end of March.</li></ul><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">March</span></strong><strong><br /></strong></p><ul><li><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-oxcart-parade.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-oxcart-parade-300x199.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Fiesta-oxcart-parade-300x199.jpg?width=300" /></a>Oxcart Parade, San Antonio de Escazu (2<sup>nd</sup> Sunday of March)</strong> — A traditional parade of beautifully handmade and painted oxcarts, with their oxen teams and “drivers” in traditional costumes; food and dancing; blessing of the animals. In Escazu (San Jose).</li><li><strong><a class="zem_slink" title="Saint Joseph's Day" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Joseph%27s_Day" target="_blank">St. Joseph’s Day</a> (March 19)</strong> — St. Joseph is the patron saint of the capital city, <a class="zem_slink" title="San José, Costa Rica" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.93333333333,-84.0833333333&spn=0.1,0.1&q=9.93333333333,-84.0833333333%20%28San%20Jos%C3%A9%2C%20Costa%20Rica%29&t=h" target="_blank">San José</a>; banks, schools and businesses are typically closed. Special Catholic services are held across the country. Namesake towns celebrate with fiestas.<strong> </strong></li><li><strong>National Orchid Exhibition (Mid-March)</strong> – Celebration of the country’s national flower and 1,200 orchid species; held in San Jose. </li><li><strong>Fruit Festival (Mid-March)</strong> – A huge open-air fruit market and festival in Orotina (on the way to the Pacific Coast from San Jose).</li></ul><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">April</span></strong><strong><br /></strong></p><ul><li><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-semana-santa.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-semana-santa.jpg?width=221" width="221" alt="Fiesta-semana-santa.jpg?width=221" /></a><a class="zem_slink" title="Holy Week" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holy_Week" target="_blank">Holy Week</a> (Semana Santa)</strong> — Holy Week is one of the biggest holidays in Costa Rica. Most businesses are closed the entire week, but Holy Thursday and Good Friday are national holidays. There are masses and processions leading up to Easter Sunday. Most Costa Ricans in the San Jose metropolitan area vacation at the country’s beaches this week.</li><li><strong>International Arts Festival (first 2 weeks of April or end of March depending on Easter)</strong> – Top international artists and national performers give performances in San Jose and other locations throughout the country (concerts, dance, theatre). </li><li><strong>Juan Santamaría Day (April 11)</strong> — Commemorates Costa Rica’s national hero, <a class="zem_slink" title="Juan Santamaría" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juan_Santamar%C3%ADa" target="_blank">Juan Santamaria</a>, who died defending Costa Rica against William Walker’s forces at the battle of Rivas in 1856. It is a national holiday; the majority of activities are held in Alajuela (parade, street fair, concerts).</li></ul><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">May</span></strong><strong><br /></strong></p><ul><li><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-san-isidro.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-san-isidro-150x150.jpg?width=150" width="150" alt="Fiesta-san-isidro-150x150.jpg?width=150" /></a>Labor Day (May 1)</strong> — National holiday celebrated with parades, marches and traditional food. This is also the day for the “state of the union” address from Costa Rica’s President to Congress and the people. </li><li><strong>St. Isidro Labrador Day (May 15)</strong> — This holiday kicks off Spring and is celebrated all over Costa Rica honoring the patron saint of farmers with blessings of animals and crops. There are street fairs and parades with music, dancing and traditional food.</li></ul><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">June</span></strong></p><ul><li><strong>Father’s Day (3<sup>rd</sup> Sunday in June)</strong> — Father’s Day in Costa Rica.</li><li><strong>St. Peter & St. Paul Day (June 29)</strong> — Namesake towns throughout Costa Rica hold processions and masses, and town fairs.</li></ul><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">July</span></strong></p><ul><li><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-Virgin-of-the-Sea.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-Virgin-of-the-Sea-300x198.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Fiesta-Virgin-of-the-Sea-300x198.jpg?width=300" /></a>Virgin of the Sea Festival (Saturday closest to July 16)</strong> — The Festival of the Virgin of the Sea is held in Puntarenas with a procession of colorfully decorated fishing boats carrying a statue of the city’s patron saint, “La Virgen del Monte Carmelo”. The secular celebrations include a week of parades, dances, regattas, and fireworks.</li><li><strong>Guanacaste Day (July 25)</strong> — Celebration of the annexation of Guanacaste from Nicaragua in 1824. It is a national holiday featuring school marching bands in parades, street fiestas, folk dancing, horse parade, bullfights, rodeos and cattle shows.</li></ul><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">August</span></strong><strong><br /></strong></p><ul><li><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-virgen-los-angeles.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-virgen-los-angeles-279x300.jpg?width=195" width="195" alt="Fiesta-virgen-los-angeles-279x300.jpg?width=195" /></a>Day of the Blessed Virgin of Los Angeles (Aug 2)</strong> — A national holiday honoring Costa Rica’s patron saint with a nationwide pilgrimage and religious processions to the Basilica in Cartago for a special mass.</li><li><strong>Mother’s Day (Aug 15)</strong> — Mother’s Day in Costa Rica is a national holiday; all banks, schools and most businesses are closed. </li><li><strong>San Ramon Day (Aug 30)</strong> – Street fair, parade and religious processions in the town of San Ramon to honor their patron saint.</li></ul><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">September</span></strong></p><ul><li><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-independence.jpg"><img class="align-left" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-independence-216x300.jpg?width=173" width="173" alt="Fiesta-independence-216x300.jpg?width=173" /></a>Independence Day (Sept 15)</strong> — Costa Rica gained independence from Spain on the same day as the rest of Central America in 1821. The nationwide celebration starts on Sept. 14 with the arrival of the Freedom Torch in Cartago (brought from Guatemala across Nicaragua by relay runners). At 6:00 pm, everyone in the country stops and simultaneously sings the national anthem; later in the evening, children carry small lanterns through their towns. On the 15<sup>th</sup>, there will be parades, traditional dancers and street parties in nearly every town in the country. This is one of Costa Rica’s biggest celebrations.</li></ul><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">October</span></strong><strong><br /></strong></p><ul><li><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-limon.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-limon-300x225.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Fiesta-limon-300x225.jpg?width=300" /></a>Carnival / Cultural Day (week of Oct 12)</strong> — Week-long “Mardi Gras-style” party in Límon on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast, celebrating Columbus’ “discovery” of Costa Rica.</li></ul><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">November</span></strong></p><ul><li><strong>All Soul’s Day (Nov 2)</strong> — A religious day observed throughout Costa Rica with Catholic masses and family visits to cemeteries to remember loved ones.</li></ul><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">December</span></strong></p><ul><li><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-festival-luz.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-festival-luz-300x199.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Fiesta-festival-luz-300x199.jpg?width=300" /></a>Festival of Lights (2<sup>nd</sup> Saturday in December)</strong> — Traditional Christmas parade in San Jose with large brightly lit and wondrously decorated floats, dancers, performers, and marching bands from across the country.</li><li><strong>Christmas Week (Dec 24-31)</strong> — Dec. 25 is an official holiday, but most businesses and all government offices are closed during Christmas Week. Most residents of the San Jose metropolitan area go out to the beaches. </li><li><strong>Horse Parade (“Tope”) (Dec 26)</strong> — Costa Rica’s most distinguished horse parade on San Jose’s main boulevard, Paseo Colon, where riders wear traditional costumes and horses are vividly decorated. Riders and horses come from all over the country to show off their equine traditions and the unique Criollo breed. </li><li><strong>Desamparados Carnival (Dec 27)</strong> – “Mardi Gras-style” festival through the streets of San Jose. </li><li><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-diablitos.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fiesta-diablitos-300x235.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Fiesta-diablitos-300x235.jpg?width=300" /></a>San Jose – Zapote Festival (Dec 25-31)</strong> – A huge festival in San Jose’s neighborhood of Zapote with the largest rodeo and bullfights of the country, rides and games, musical concerts, entertainment, food, shopping.</li><li><strong>Festival of the Little Devils (Dec 31 – Jan 2)</strong> — Indigenous of southern Costa Rica’s Boruca region re-enact a battle between the bull (“El Toro,” representing Spanish troops) and the little devils (“Los Diablitos,” representing the Boruca Indians), showing how the Boruca people were never defeated as a tribe by Spanish conquistadors. The three-day cultural event features traditional costumes, artisan crafts and cuisine. It takes place in the village of Boruca, near Perez Zeledon.</li></ul><p>By Shannon Farley</p></div>
Tips for First-Timers to Fantasy Fest in Key West, Florida - Mardi Gras on Steroids!
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/tips-for-1st-timers-to-fantasy-fest-in-key-west-florida-mardi
2012-09-23T01:30:00.000Z
2012-09-23T01:30:00.000Z
Ann, TS
https://tripatini.com/members/AnnTS
<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008737255,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008737255,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008737255?profile=original" /></a>Hello all FantasyFesters! Less than 50 days to go! (Oct. 19-28, 2012). And the parade's main theme this year (Fantasy Fest #33) is "A-Conch-Alypse" alluding to the end of the world in Dec. based on the Mayan Calendar.<br /> <br /> The TravelSlut® 's Top Tips for First Time Fantasy Fest attendees<br /> You are in for a treat both for the Fantasy Fest event itself and for Key West.<br /> <br /> While I've only been 11 times, I have learned a few things through personal experience or the experience of others: (in no particular order):<br /> <br /> Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: Key West is a walking town especially on and around Duval Street so comfortable, soled shoes or sandals are a must. Don't walk downtown in barefeet as the streets are likely to have either debris or glass, etc. that could cut up your feet. Also, in the heat, both streets and sidewalks heat up tremendously and you don't want to either burn your feet or have to do an emergency purchase of shoes/sandals from a downtown vendor.<br /> <br /> Toiletries & Medical Supplies: Essentials if you plan do to the "Duval Crawl" include: aspirin, Tylenol, antacids, Pepto-Bismol, and Chaser Plus. You should also have available at your hotel or B&B at least some insect repellent, sunscreen & aloe vera gel.<br /> <br /> Camping/Beach/Outdoor Gear: If you plan to do the beaches, bring a blanket and or chair and some sort of sun protection. The sun is brutal on skin not normally exposed to this heat and at this latitude.<br /> <br /> Transportation: During high season or any major event, parking can be almost non-existent near Duval Street even if you have a reservation at the Bed & Breakfast or small motel or hotel. Don't even think about parking in a resident's zone unless you have specific permission--the fine and/or tow bill will be huge.<br /> <br /> There are parking garages, meters and some free side-street parking but again, if there is something going on in Key West (which seems to be most every weekend), then parking may be both expensive and limited.<br /> <br /> Be cautious driving on the one-way streets, the narrow streets and the streets where the conch train operates. Watch out for bicycles, pedalcabs, small electric vehicles and of course, pedestrians.<br /> <br /> Key West is small and compact in size and some streets are both narrow and have obscured sidewalks or side paths so watch your step--especially at night.<br /> <br /> Be extremely careful driving as pedestrians (sometimes intoxicated, sometimes jaywalking) will walk right out in front of you driving from a previously hidden area.<br /> <br /> Be careful on the streets of bicylists and people riding scooters or Vespa's that may not be used to operating them. It is easy to be distracted while looking and at the sites of Key West.<br /> <br /> Key West also has a "conch train" that operates on both main and side streets-be sure to give it leeway as it is long in length.<br /> <br /> Coming into Key West's "new town" at the north end of the island, is a culture shock after driving the previous 50 miles or so. Key West is modern and developed and but always seems to have ongoing renovations and construction of new condo units, etc. Be cautious of traffic controls, traffic workers, and slow-downs. Don't be in a hurry. Remember, you are on "Island Time" now and the 25,000 full time residents will appreciate patience as will your additional fellow 50,000+ Fantasy Fest revelers.<br /> <br /> Traveling along Highway US 1 (now called North Roosevelt Blvd. and at mid-town, Truman Avenue), you will start to see the signs of the Fantasy Fest celebration as many people decorate their homes and businesses in the colors or theme of the event.<br /> <br /> 2012's theme is "A-Conch Alypse" and is the 33rd Anniversary of Fantasy Fest and this year runs from Friday, Oct. 19 to Sunday, Oct. 28 with the parade on Saturday, Oct. 27 basically culminating the week of fun.<br /> <br /> Key West during Fantasy Fest is definitely not for the timid or shy and small children should not be downtown after dark (or at all if possible). Bodypaint, nudity and skimpy, sexy clothing (or lack thereof) rules! <br /> <br /> Nightly themes include: (and you should really consider costumes for every night)<br /> <br /> 1st SATURDAY NIGHT-- Anything goes but keep it PG on the streets as there are still many tourists and residents prepping for FF. Save the risque fun for the bars and clubs and use common sense to cover up on the street.<br /> <br /> SUNDAY NIGHT--Pirate, Wench and Booty Night with the earlybirds of Fantasy Fest getting warmed up with fun at various venues around town and Capt. Tony's has been the place to be the past few years to the point that police have shut down Greene Street south of Duval Street to accomodate the overflow. <br /> <br /> MONDAY NIGHT-- features all those in leather, vinyl, rubber and all types of Fetish and Fantasy wear up to and including bodypaint (which is acceptable any night). It's not uncommon to see dozens if not hundreds of people dressed in leather or latex or some variation for this party or the many others featured in non-sanctioned venues. Again, Capt. Tony's has a special celebration in their side rooms called Capt. Tony's Rubber Fetish Ball.<br /> <br /> Also, MONDAY is Leather & Fetish @ Kelly's Kinky Karnival at Kelly's Caribbean. (Personally, I've attended the leather-fetish party @ Kelly's Caribbean Bar & Grill for several years and this is definitely not the place for anyone shy or timid). <br /> <br /> I am sure that many of the people in attendance both on the streets and in the bars and private parties are amazed at the costumes and antics of the crowds. Words cannot describe here what you might see so you will have to use your imagination to get dressed up and experience what you see, hear and do. My photos only scratch the surface.<br /> <br /> TUESDAY NIGHT--features Plaid Nite & bodypaint @ Capt. Tony's Saloon and there are several other parties throughout Key West. This is also good as it keeps crowds down & separated so you don't feel so crowded & congregated. <br /> <br /> Remember, depending on the statistics used, Key West grows from a small town of 25,000 to almost 100,000 for Fantasy Fest as crowds are estimated to be from 50,000-75,000 and most are primarily situated in an area on a one-mile section of town called Duval Street (famous for the infamous Duval Crawl).<br /> <br /> There are also parties at Fat Tuesday's, the Headdress Ball, there is a free poster signing party and Capt. Tony's Saloon highlights the evening with its "Party in Plaid" event. I can usually be found spending my evening here.<br /> <br /> WEDNESDAY NIGHT--features Red Night @ Fogerty's & elsewhere on Duval Street and the crowds really start to arrive. Usually Duval Street is blocked off to allow only pedestrian traffic late at night and a two-four block long section of Duval which is labeled the "Fantasy Zone" where open containers of beer, wine or alcohol are permitted and are served from bars and vendors. I often try to use vendors that use a portion of their proceeds for local charities.<br /> <br /> The theme for the night is "Red" and Fogerty's & Flying Monkey's Bar is the place to be-- although other events are also fun including:<br /> <br /> Pet Masquerade & Parade at the Westin Key West resort (daytime)<br /> Celebrity Look-a-Like contest @ La Concha<br /> Beach party @ Hog's Breath Saloon with world famous Homemade Bikini Contest<br /> <br /> All the while these official events are occurring, many bars and saloons feature their own party theme and of course, thousands of people flock into the streets and sidewalks of Duval where people-watching takes on a new level. <br /> <br /> THURSDAY NIGHT--features Toga Night @ Sloppy Joes & everywhere else and there are thousands of togas and variations of them everywhere in Key West. After all, togas are relevant to party times and are easy to make or buy, and they feel great!<br /> <br /> Fantasy Fest features several events throughout old town including: Pretenders in Paradise costume contest (where the prize money is $10,000) at the Pier House Resort & Caribbean Spa; Monsters Ball at the Green Parrot Bar and of course, the famous (Hemingway used to hang out here) Sloppy Joes 27th annual Toga Party with a $1,000 cash prize.<br /> <br /> Again, Duval Street becomes an event in itself with thousands of people costumed and as many taking photos or just watching.<br /> <br /> Cruiseship passengers that happen to be in port for the week sure get an eyeful.<br /> <br /> The remainder of the festival has many events both FRIDAY and SATURDAY NIGHTS with Friday's highlight being the Duval Street Fair, Masquerade March and Pimp N Ho party while Saturday night features a Bourbon Street Tea Dance, Bodypaint Contest @ the Green Parrot and Captain Morgan Fantasy Fest parade where 70,000 onlookers and 50+ or more floats are all part of the celebration's pending conclusion down Duval Street on Saturday Night.<br /> <br /> SUNDAY NIGHT: the town almost returns to "normal" and has a children's day at a local park and a conclusion somewhere that focuses on "it's not over until the fat lady sings". <br /> <br /> The drive back home or the flight back home is always a challenge. Between hangovers, crowds, and general dismay about returning to reality, leaving Key West and Fantasy Fest can be tough except for the knowledge that the next Fantasy Fest is less than 360 days away! <br /> <br /> Please check my separate 2012 Fantasy Fest events listed (in detail) posted.<br /> <br /> Now, for some important DO's AND DON'T's of Fantasy Fest:<br /> (and thanks to the people that helped create this list where ever you are) :-)<br /> <br /> Don't wear a mask you can't drink in. <br /> <br /> Don't choose a costume you can't use the bathroom in. <br /> <br /> Don't wear shoes you can't walk in. <br /> <br /> Do dress sexier than you thought you might. <br /> <br /> Do make sure you have a place to stay before you get too drunk. <br /> <br /> Do realize that the shape and size of your breasts/penis will not change with spray paint. <br /> <br /> Don't wear your thong with your leg in the wrong hole. <br /> <br /> Do trim your pubic hair within the limits of your costume ...please. <br /> <br /> Do donate your leftover items to locals who want to enjoy Fantasy Fest as much as the rest of us but often just make room for us. <br /> <br /> Don't flash the cops. <br /> <br /> Don't ask the cops to flash you. <br /> <br /> Do understand that just because you are naked doesn't mean that others find you attractive. <br /> <br /> Don't go out carrying valuable items that you are likely to lose when you get drunk such as a purse wallet, expensive jewelry or your spouse. <br /> <br /> Do wrap your money in plastic or a ziplock first if you have nothing to carry it in but your bikini bottoms or sweaty shorts. <br /> <br /> Do consider getting a personal catheter for parade night as unoccupied bathrooms will be scarce (just joking)<br /> <br /> Don't verbally abuse anyone before stepping inside a porta-potty as the result could be disastrous and gross. <br /> <br /> Don't step in front of moving parade floats to pick up candy or beads. <br /> <br /> Do be aware that if you take Henrietta home with you may wake up with Henry. <br /> <br /> Do take lots of pictures but use a disposable camera if you are prone to losing them. And asking 1st if it is OK to take a photo will usually mean yes and you will get a nicer, posed shot or two. <br /> <br /> Do exercise a little tact and courtesy with the folks working in the bars through the festivities. They are there working days off for your enjoyment. <br /> <br /> Don't tip in beads - they don't want or need beads--- tip with cash please.<br /> <br /> Don't ask the female servers to show you their boobs--there are thousands of women on Duval Street dying to show you all that they've got. <br /> <br /> Don't try to stick your tongue down the bartender's throat unless of course he wants you to (just joking, again)<br /> <br /> Do carry some info or business card of your motel/hotel/B&B address so someone can help get you home if you need help late at night<br /> <br /> Don't be afraid to dress up. Have an outrageous time and tip big.<br /> <br /> And for those that can't make Fantasy Fest--------------<br /> <br /> The 7h Annual Mid-Year Reunion-Rendezvous of FantasyFesters and KrewedeKrazyLifers will occur in June 2013 at the wild and wicked Hedonism II resort in Jamaica where we will again enjoy theme nights like Fetish, PimpNHo and Toga, costumes, all-you-can eat and drink 24/7, a nude cruise, and all in a cashless, clothing optional-nude environment. <br /> <br /> In the meantime, take care, travel safe and have safe fun!<br /> <br /> Ann, The TravelSlut :-)<br /> email: TheTravelSlut@yahoo.com</p><p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/FantasyFesters">http://www.flickr.com/groups/FantasyFesters</a><br /> groups.yahoo.com/group/TravelSlut<br /> groups.yahoo.com/group/KrewedeKrazyLifers4Hedonism </p></div>
Greenwich, Connecticut's Wine & Food Festival
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/greenwich-connecticut-wine-food-festival
2014-10-15T11:09:48.000Z
2014-10-15T11:09:48.000Z
Steve Mirsky
https://tripatini.com/members/SteveMirsky964
<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008886459,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008886459,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="446" alt="9008886459?profile=original" /></a>Each year, the <a href="http://greenwichwineandfood.com/"><span style="color:#0000ff;">Greenwich Wine & Food Festival</span></a> proves that it represents so much more than a celebration of premier food and wine tastings. As a baseline of activity, nearly 100 wine and spirits vendors, local restaurants and artisan food producers share their goods under The Culinary Village Tent in Roger Sherman Park overlooking Greenwich Harbor and Long Island Sound.</p><p>This year you had highlights like Stella Artois pulling glasses of their opulent Belgian Pale Lager and Cidre into take-home souvenir glasses, BBQ Pitmaster Demonstrations which included the finer points of brisket preparation, a Food Truck Smackdown, and Kathy Lee Gifford promoting her <a href="http://www.gifftwines.com/">new line of wines</a>. And if that weren't enough, as the sun set on Saturday, the <a href="http://baconbros.com/">Bacon Brothers</a> took the stage followed by Alabama.</p><p>The best part of this weekend long party is that 100% of the proceeds resulting from this revelry go to the <span style="color:#0000ff;"><a href="http://www.holeinthewallgang.org/Page.aspx?pid=471">Hole in the Wall Gang</a><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><a href="http://www.holeinthewallgang.org/Page.aspx?pid=471">,</a></span></span> an organization that helps kids suffering from cancer have fun despite their adversities. So if you missed the party yet again or weren't in this corner of the globe at the right time, kick back and watch the following highlights courtesy of your roving <em><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com" target="_blank">gastrotraveling.com</a></em> correspondent. Hopefully this convinces you to secure tickets for next year:</p><p></p><p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/cTFdctZalSk?wmode=opaque" frameborder="0"></iframe></p><p></p><blockquote><p><em>Photo courtesy of Serendipity Magazine. Video courtesy of Steve Mirsky</em></p></blockquote><p></p></div>
Spanish Festivals You Didn't Know Existed
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/spanish-festivals-you-didn-t-know-existed
2014-10-16T10:37:03.000Z
2014-10-16T10:37:03.000Z
Hollie Mantle
https://tripatini.com/members/HollieMantle
<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008885298,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008885298,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="425" class="align-center" height="253" alt="9008885298?profile=original" /></a></p><p></p><p>Our image of Spain never fails to include a few of the following: flamenco dancers, paella, controversial bull fights and copious amounts of blood red sangria. Travellers come from all over for La Sagrada Familia, to eat tapas in Barcelona, or to visit one of the famed festivals such as the Tomatina or running of the bulls in Pamplona. <br /><br /><span style="font-size:13px;">There are, however, other, largely undiscovered festivals that the tourist guide books and websites have yet to fully uncover. I'll tell you about a few...<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:13px;">First up, is the </span><b style="font-size:13px;">festival of the Three Kings (Reyes Magos)</b><span style="font-size:13px;">. This celebration takes place all over Spain, in almost every town, and involves men on horseback trotting through the town delivering sweets to the gleeful children. Two particularly special locations, however, are Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje in Tenerife, where the kings arrive in unusually celebrity-esque style. In Los Cristianos, it’s on horseback, via boat, arriving into the town’s harbour. whereas in Costa Adeje, the kings are dramatically dropped in via helicopter. If you decide to make a visit to the south of the island to watch the parades, check out the other events and</span> <a href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/dp/0a52a024-9305-3bf1-a0a6-84b009cc5af4" style="font-size:13px;">things to do</a> <span style="font-size:13px;">close by; trips such as whale watching and Harley tours will definitely make the travel time worthwhile.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:13px;">For all fully fledged or budding alcoholics, it would be a crime not to mention Spain's elaborate </span><a href="http://www.wine-fight.com/" style="font-size:13px;">wine festival</a><span style="font-size:13px;">. Every year on June 19</span><span style="font-size:13px;">th, locals and travellers traverse a mountain to douse each other in red wine. This event takes place in La Rioja (yes, that’s where the name on those bottles littering your kitchen floor comes from!), and vans full of red wine wait in the streets, ready to give you a refill when your water pistol runs out of attack-juice. <br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:13px;">Another Canary Island classic is</span> <b style="font-size:13px;">Los Indianos</b><span style="font-size:13px;">. This time, the festival is in celebration of Spanish immigrants who left the country seeking fortune, and returned to its shores as new, moneyed citizens. To celebrate, locals and travellers from other islands dress up head to toe in white, which resembles the newly returned nouveau riche. They then proceed to cover eachother head to toe in talcum powder during a giant talc-war.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:13px;">Another white-powder throwing festival takes place on December 28</span><span style="font-size:13px;">th in Alicante. This festival, named</span> <b style="font-size:13px;">Dia de los Inocentes</b> <span style="font-size:13px;">is similar to April Fools. In Ibi, instead of pranks they take to the streets to drown one another in puffs of white flour. <br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:13px;">In</span> <a href="http://www.viamichelin.com/web/Maps/Map-Piornal-10615-Caceres-Spain?strLocid=31NDExNDcxMGNOREF1TVRFM01EZz1jTFRVdU9EVXdOems9" style="font-size:13px;">Piornal</a> <span style="font-size:13px;">on Saint Sebastian’s Day, festival-goers take to the street and battle with slightly less safety-friendly weapons and ammunition. As one poor soul plods the streets dressed as Jarramplas (a devil-like creature), turnip-wielding festival attendants pelt him or her with the vegetable. That’s right; raw, solid, uncooked turnips. As far as reports go, the Jarramplas usually survives this festival, and the turnips are a necessary means to ward off negativity. Presumably the throwing also goes a little way to winding down some of the testosterone levels in the village, too.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:13px;">This summary is by no means complete; we haven't even mentioned the delicious meringue-batter throwing festival in Barcelona</span><a href="http://www.wine-fight.com/" style="font-size:13px;"></a><span style="font-size:13px;">, or the festival where grown men jump over babies in the street, but as a sample hopefully it shows at least a little of Spanish life beyond the sangria.</span></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p></div>
A Spanish Adventure: Andalusia's 'Fiesta del Agua'
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/a-spanish-adventure-the-fiesta-de-agua
2014-07-11T13:00:00.000Z
2014-07-11T13:00:00.000Z
Nithin C
https://tripatini.com/members/NithinC
<div><p><br /> <em>Nithin Coca's first book, Traveling Softly and Quietly, is now for sale on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JDHNH7O" target="_blank">Amazon</a> and <a href="https://www.createspace.com/4727672" target="_blank">Createspace</a>. This is an excerpt from that book. </em></p><p>We were waking down an alley in the albaicin, the old, Arab quarter of Granada, a maze of brick walls, enclosed, classical white Arab compounds with lovely courtyards, small hidden city squares, all built upon a twisted, steep hill. We were walking through a curved, rock-paved pedestrian street that started in new Granada below and waved up the mountain. The smell of tea shops, hookahs, from the Moroccan-owned boutiques and tea houses on either side of the street permeated and gave the air a thick, silky texture.</p><p></p><p>Suddenly, I saw a large, yellow flier posted next to the door of an Arab crafts shop. The big black words were all in Spanish, yet they were words that nearly every American could understand.</p><p></p><p><strong>FIESTA DE AGUA</strong></p><p></p><p>"Whoa!" I said as I screeched to a stop. "Look! Fiesta de agua?"</p><p></p><p>Fiesta de Agua. It was only 10 euros.</p><p></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008859463,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008859463,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9008859463?profile=original" /></a></p><p></p><p>What is a Fiesta del Agua? Good question. We had tickets, swimsuits, and little else, and now, we were on a bus full of Spaniards, slowly figuring out we were headed to a village where we would, according to what little we could understand, be drenched with water. We had brought no extra clothes (as everyone else on the bus had), nor had we brought a towel.</p><p></p><p>When we got off the bus, we were handed buckets. That´s right, Buckets. Medium sized, blue, plastic buckets. We followed the throngs, countless hundreds, through a beautiful, green, mountain path toward a picturesque small valley town, the lights glimmering over the clear night sky. This was where the fiesta was taking place?</p><p></p><p>The crowds were amazing. The streets were packed with students, families, children, grandmas, all with buckets. From the balconies, people with hoses sprayed water down on the crowds, everyone trying to catch as much water as possible in their buckets. ¨Mucho agua, mucho agua!¨chanted the completely Spanish crowd. Within minutes, we were completely soaked with frigid water, but so was everyone else. The energy of the crowds was amazing, people were being sprayed with fire hoses, buckets, even the occasional gutter splash. The streets were running with dirty, warm water, not a single soul in the city was dry, even the hosers on the balconies were not spared the pain. It was a true water fight, truly a massive FIESTA DE AQUA.</p><p></p><p>I could never have guessed when I saw that sign that I would, with 12 hours, be ambushing random people with buckets of cold water, evading super-soakers, and in general having a fantastic time. This experience, one I will never forget, could have been so easily lost had I glanced the wrong direction, had the slip fallen out of my pocket, or had not called the number But most of all, the experience never would have happened had we decided to take a risk. That was the true lesson:</p><p></p><p>You can never get anything out of traveling unless you take chances.</p><p></p><p><em>Nithin returned from his trip in 2007, and in the years since has worked to better the world through environmental and human rights activism. Purchase his book, <a href="http://memoir.nithincoca.com" target="_blank">Traveling Softly and Quietly</a>, at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JDHNH7O" target="_blank">Amazon</a> and <a href="https://www.createspace.com/4727672" target="_blank">Createspace</a>.</em></p><p></p></div>
Celebrating Culinary Inspiration at Florida's Clearwater Beach Uncorked
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/celebrating-culinary-inspiration-at-clearwater-beach-uncorked
2014-03-11T14:00:00.000Z
2014-03-11T14:00:00.000Z
Steve Mirsky
https://tripatini.com/members/SteveMirsky964
<div><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/clearwaterbeachuncorked2.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-full" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/clearwaterbeachuncorked2.jpg?width=507" width="507" alt="clearwaterbeachuncorked2.jpg?width=507" /></a>Florida means different things to different people. Popular characteristics include Disney, sunshine, gators, the Everglades, and miles of wide open beaches. And then there's Florida's Gulf coast, endless stretches of powder white sand that were remarkably resilient to the ravages of the Deep Water Horizon oil spill several years ago. Right in the middle is Clearwater Beach studded with a wide variety of beachfront lodgings ranging from mom & pop motels to grand hotels. <a href="http://clearwaterbeach.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html">The Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach</a> is the area's latest 5-star addition making it the perfect spot for reveling in Clearwater Beach's Uncorked festivities, held annually in February.</p><p><b>Wine Tastings & Chef Cooking Demonstrations</b></p><p>With <a href="http://www.publix.com/">Publix Supermarkets</a> as a main sponsor, you can be sure <a href="http://clearwaterbeachuncorked.com/">Clearwater Beach Uncorked</a> appeals just as much to everyday <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/clearwaterbeachuncorkedfood2.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-right" style="width:466px;height:334px;" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/clearwaterbeachuncorkedfood2.jpg?width=538" width="538" height="402" alt="clearwaterbeachuncorkedfood2.jpg?width=538" /></a>sensibilities as to gustatory indulgence. Your weekly slog to the grocery store can get pretty mundane unless you spice up the menu repertoire with new ingredients and preparation methods. It also helps to pair these spurts of culinary creativity with top wines and craft liquors.</p><p>Clearwater Beach Uncorked not only gives you an excuse to party but a chance to get inspired by new recipes and ways of preparing dishes that fit into your everyday routine. Instead of watching top tier celebrity chefs preparing mostly inaccessible dishes like souffles or those requiring exotic ingredients, Clearwater Beach Uncorked gives hope to those of us stuck in a cookbook-centric rut.</p><p>A lineup of chefs from Publix Apron's Cooking School lead numerous demonstrations providing actionable ways to improve the quality of your diet by exploring new flavor combinations and utilizing fresh local ingredients. One demonstration challenged preconceived notions about what pairs best with chocolate by giving the audience a chance to taste how kumquats, sweet potato chips, and beef tips dipped in melted Lindt chocolate differ in flavor profile.</p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/clearwaterbeachuncorkedbooze.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" style="width:322px;height:412px;" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/clearwaterbeachuncorkedbooze.jpg?width=454" width="454" height="605" alt="clearwaterbeachuncorkedbooze.jpg?width=454" /></a>Wine is of course a major part of Uncorked but to be honest, I didn't spend much time examining wine labels here. A regional standout was <a href="http://www.floridawine.com/">Florida Orange Groves Winery</a> offering a wide array of tropical fruit wines like key lime, mango, and guava. <a href="http://www.jamiesonranch.com/">Jamieson Ranch</a> and <a href="http://www.dreamingtreewines.com/index.cfm?">Dreaming Tree Vineyards</a> were also offering some impressive flights. Navigating the tasting tent required developing a strategy for when and where to score samples as crowds ebbed and flowed alongside many of the tables. Grabbing small plates of the seemingly endless seafood paella and Bird's Eye stir fry paired up with available reds or whites worked for me.</p><p><b>Small Batch Liquors</b></p><p>This section of the festivities was a hidden gem in an outdoor alcove underneath the Hyatt. Imagine a college party getting started without Bud Light kegs and Jello shots. There were plenty of opportunities for sampling small batch liquor producers like Deep Eddy, Tito's Handmade Vodka, Fish Hawk Spirits, Templeton Rye and the biggest palate tempter for me, Midnight Moon's Apple Pie moonshine. I'm thinking an apropos cocktail recipe for this one would be a <i>Baked Apple</i>: cinnamon and raisin liquors mixed with this specialty moonshine topped with a spritz of caramel syrup.</p><p><b>Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach</b></p><p>Do yourself a favor and reserve a room at the Hyatt Regency when attending Clearwater Beach Uncorked. You'll be right on site so you can saunter down onto the beach just as the line is forming at the entrance. And when you need a break, you're a quick walk up to your room outfitted with a kitchen complete with dishwasher, full size refrigerator and countertop range.<a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/clearwaterbeachuncorkedspa.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-large wp-image-4471" alt="clearwaterbeachuncorkedspa" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/clearwaterbeachuncorkedspa-1024x341.jpg" width="1024" height="341" /></a></p><p>Right on the city's Beach Walk which recently underwent $30 million in renovations, you're also an easy walk to shops and the town pier. Did I mention you are right across the street from Clearwater Marina and a 15 min. walk away from Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home of <a href="http://www.seewinter.com/winter">star dolphin <em>Winter</em></a>?</p><p>When it's time for meals other than festival food samples, Executive Chef Richard Preston deftly oversees on-property dining like <i>SHOR American Seafood Grill</i> where plentiful local seafood is creatively prepared in a dramatic show kitchen while poolside Pan-Latin fusion dishes are served up at <i>Swim Bar & Grill</i>.</p><p>For the ultimate experience, head up to the 7<sup>th</sup> floor's Sandava Spa where serenity rules. A full menu of organic treatments combined with spectacular views of Clearwater Harbor put your body on a sustainable path toward healing and rejuvenation.</p><blockquote><em>Photos courtesy of Clearwater Beach Uncorked, Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach, & Steve Mirsky. Coverage made possible by participating in a partially sponsored visit.</em></blockquote></div>
Having a Ball at the Stone Spheres Festival in Costa Rica
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/have-a-ball-at-the-stone-spheres-festival-in-costa-rica
2014-03-28T12:59:35.000Z
2014-03-28T12:59:35.000Z
Danny Solano Alvarez
https://tripatini.com/members/DannySolanoAlvarez
<div><p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296584659,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296584659,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="9296584659?profile=original" /></a>Coming at the end of the month to the <strong>Osa southern region of <a class="zem_slink" title="Costa Rica" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.93333333333,-84.0833333333&spn=10.0,10.0&q=9.93333333333,-84.0833333333%20(Costa%20Rica)&t=h" target="_blank">Costa Rica</a></strong>, the <a title="Costa Rica to celebrate the ninth festival of the spheres" href="http://thecostaricanews.com/costa-ricas-osa-peninsula-celebrates-the-ninth-festival-of-the-spheres/19202" target="_blank"><strong>ninth Festival of the Stone Sphere</strong></a><a title="Costa Rica to celebrate the ninth festival of the spheres" href="http://thecostaricanews.com/costa-ricas-osa-peninsula-celebrates-the-ninth-festival-of-the-spheres/19202" target="_blank"><strong>s</strong></a> celebrates one of the <strong>most enigmatic historical and cultural mysteries of Costa Rica</strong>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The <a title="2014 Festival of the Stone Spheres in Costa Rica" href="http://www.museocostarica.go.cr/es_cr/ix-festival-de-esferas-osa-2014/index.php?Itemid=99" target="_blank"><strong>2014 Festival of the Spheres</strong></a> is bing held <strong>March 26 to 30 in <a class="zem_slink" title="Palmar Sur" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=8.96666666667,-83.45&spn=0.1,0.1&q=8.96666666667,-83.45%20(Palmar%20Sur)&t=h" target="_blank">Palmar Sur</a>, Palmar Norte and Sierpe</strong> along Costa Rica's south Pacific coast. Put on by the <a title="National Museum of Costa Rica" href="http://www.museocostarica.go.cr/" target="_blank"><strong>National Museum of Costa Rica</strong></a>, the majority of the activities will be at its new satellite <a title="Stone Spheres Museum opens in Costa Rica" href="http://news.co.cr/now-open-mysterious-stone-spheres-museum-in-costa-rica/30125/" target="_blank"><strong>Museum of the Stone Spheres at Finca 6 in Palmar Sur</strong></a>, where research on the country’s spheres is centered.</p><p></p><p style="text-align:justify;">The <strong>giant, perfectly-formed spheres of granite-like igneous rock</strong> were discovered in southern Costa Rica. <strong>Their origin, exact age and history are still a mystery</strong>, though archaeologists tentatively date the spheres to 400 to 1500 A.D. Man-made by an indigenous people who disappeared long ago and left no written records, <strong>the spheres have sparked international attention as to their origin and purpose</strong>. It is suspected that they were used to represent astronomical constellations, for delineation of tribal areas, or served as a place of worship and gathering. They were <strong><a title="Spheres declared a UNESCO World Heritage" href="http://thecostaricanews.com/unesco-accepts-costa-rica-indigenous-stone-spheres-as-heritage-of-humanity/14842" target="_blank">declared a UNESCO World Heritage</a> in early 2014</strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008828694,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008828694,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="175" alt="9008828694?profile=original" /></a>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Around 300 spheres have been found</strong> in the Diquís Delta region in the south Pacific of Costa Rica, near the <a class="zem_slink" title="Térraba River" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.032256,-83.626742&spn=1.0,1.0&q=9.032256,-83.626742%20(T%C3%A9rraba%20River)&t=h" target="_blank">Térraba River</a> and the cities of Puerto Cortés, Palmar Norte and Sierpe. The almost perfectly spherical stones range in diameter <strong>from a few centimeters up to 2.5 meters, with the largest weighing 16 tons</strong>. They were <strong>discovered in the early 1930s</strong> during the clearing of jungle for banana plantations. One of the many unanswered questions is how the native peoples transported a 16-ton ball made of a rock that exists 50 miles away from where the spheres were found in the jungle.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"></p><p style="text-align:justify;">The <strong>Festival of the Stone Spheres</strong> combines cultural and artistic performances, environmental themes, concerts, craft fairs, and educational and sports activities. <strong>Shows is being put on by indigenous local Borucas</strong>, whose ancestors are credited with having made the spheres. A <strong>47 km mountain bike recreational race</strong> follows historic routes through some pre-Columbian communities and former banana plantations. There's also an <strong>8 km foot race</strong>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>You can attend the Festival of the Stone Spheres</strong> on your way to or from <strong><a title="Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge, Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica" href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> on <a class="zem_slink" title="Gulf of Dulce" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=8.58333333333,-83.2666666667&spn=0.1,0.1&q=8.58333333333,-83.2666666667%20(Gulf%20of%20Dulce)&t=h" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce</a></strong>. The remote oceanfront jungle property is a unique and exotic <a title="Playa Nicuesa is a unique Costa Rica eco-lodge" href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a> on a 165-acre private reserve across from the <a title="Playa Nicuesa and the Osa Peninsula in southern Costa Rica" href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">Osa Peninsula</a>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><em><strong>Article by <a title="Follow writer Shannon Farley on Google+" href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+ShannonFarley/posts" target="_blank">Shannon Farley</a></strong></em></p><div class="zemanta-pixie" style="margin-top:10px;height:15px;text-align:justify;"><em><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" title="Enhanced by Zemanta" href="http://www.zemanta.com/?px"><img class="zemanta-pixie-img" style="border:none;float:right;" src="http://img.zemanta.com/zemified_e.png?x-id=bc4af829-eb8d-4f60-88ef-b2c0f7f5a889" alt="Enhanced by Zemanta" /></a></em></div></div>
Clearwater Beach Uncorked Celebrates A Renewed Florida Gulf Coast
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/clearwater-beach-uncorked-celebrates-a-renewed-gulf-coast
2014-01-29T13:08:50.000Z
2014-01-29T13:08:50.000Z
Steve Mirsky
https://tripatini.com/members/SteveMirsky964
<div><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/clearwaterbeachuncorked.jpg"><img class="alignleft wp-image-4354" alt="clearwaterbeachuncorked" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/clearwaterbeachuncorked.jpg" width="515" height="178" /></a></p><p></p><p>In June 2010, the Gulf of Mexico was under siege. Black oil plumes from the Deep Horizon Oil Spill menacingly spread across vast swaths of ocean threatening marine life and shoreline ecosystems including beaches. Tourism plummeted and something had to be done to expedite cleanup efforts. Clearwater Florida vigorously rallied community support leading to many home grown initiatives. One of them still existing today is <a href="http://clearwaterbeachuncorked.com/">Clearwater Beach Uncorked</a>, now in its 3rd year, continues to promote Florida's Gulf coast as a premier vacation spot and culinary destination.</p><p>Evolving into a celebration more than a cause, weekend-long Clearwater Beach Uncorked held this February 8-9th will showcase local culinary talent paired with top wines, spirits and brews. Expect copious sampling under grand tents set up on the sugar white sands overlooking warm Gulf Coast waters in front of <a href="http://clearwaterbeach.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html?src=agn_smg_hr_ppc_google_ss_propertyspecific_pierc_hyattregencyclearwaterbeachresort%26spa&fund=fs&keywordtype=brand&mckv=sow124ve5_dc%7Cpcrid%7C11994381087%7Cmtid%7C3944cfd18966%7C" target="_blank">Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa</a>.</p><p>Although VIP tickets are now sold out, <a href="http://clearwaterbeachuncorked.com/?page_id=536" target="_blank">General Admission tickets still available</a>. $85 per day gets you into the <em>Grand Tasting Village</em> and <em>Uncorked Spirits Beach Club</em> as well as a <em>Decadent Dessert Tent</em> showcasing Bubbles on the Beach featuring bubbles, sweets, pastries and all things rich and gooey just in time for Valentine’s Day.</p><p>A portion of the ticket proceeds goes to the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee College of Hospitality and Technology Leadership to develop academic programs, scholarships, research grants and campus infrastructure.</p><blockquote><em>Photo courtesy of Clearwater Beach Uncorked</em></blockquote></div>
10 Tips for Enjoying the Al Dhafra Camel Festival, Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi, UAE
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/top-10-tips-to-enjoy-the-al-dhafra-camel-festival-madinat-zayed
2014-01-14T19:46:21.000Z
2014-01-14T19:46:21.000Z
Katie Foster
https://tripatini.com/members/KatieFoster
<div><div><p>There is an art to enjoying a camel festival . . .</p><p></p></div><div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008811892,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008811892,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" class="align-center" alt="9008811892?profile=original" /></a>If you are looking for an authentic Arab experience, the <b><a href="http://www.aldhafrafestival.ae/?Lang=EN">Dahfra Camel Festival</a></b> is a must see.</p><p></p></div><div><p>This celebrated festival occurs the last two weeks of December in a desert camp city that sprouts up just outside of <b><a href="http://www.algharbia.ae/contents.php?pageid=20">Madinat Zayed</a></b> about a 2 hour ride into the desert from <b><a href="http://visitabudhabi.ae/en/default.aspx">Abu Dhabi.</a></b> This is a serious festival. At the 2013 Festival, the winners of the various festival competitions took home 50 million dirhams ($13,623,978+) in prize money including 198 top-of-the-line SUVs. </p></div><div><p></p><p>In 2012, Roger and I ranked this camel festival #2 in our <a href="http://www.arabiantalesandotheramazingadventures.blogspot.com/2013/01/2012-top-adventures-in-and-around-dubai.html#more"><b>2012 Top Adventures In and Around Dubai;</b></a><b> </b>for 2013 it will retain its #2 slot. We just love getting down with the natives!</p></div><div><p></p><p>So here are my Top 10 Tips for enjoying the one-and-only Dhafra Camel Festival:</p></div><hr class="more" /><p></p><div><p><b>#1 Book a Room . . . or pitch your tent </b></p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008812062,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008812062,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" class="align-center" alt="9008812062?profile=original" /></a></b></p></div><table align="center" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container"><tbody><tr><td><p></p></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><p><b>A camel festival compound proudly flying the UAE flag<br /> - wish we'd been invited to tea! </b></p></td></tr></tbody></table><div><p>Since it is a very long ride into the desert and activities run late into the evening, I strongly suggest that you plan on spending the night. The <b><a href="http://www.tilalliwa.danathotels.com/">Tilal Liwa Hotel</a></b> is right in the middle of the festival. The <b><a href="http://www.almarfapearlhotels.com/liwa/">LiwaHotel</a></b> is a 30 minute ride down the road. Roger and I have stayed at both and are comfortable recommending either depending on how much pain your wallet can endure.</p></div><div><p>Or . . . be adventurous and join the crowds who pitch their own tents. Just pick a prime piece of desert property and claim it as your own. Many festival participants travel from the Gulf region, some even come by camel caravan. They set up elaborate tent compounds that patriotically fly their country’s flag. I decline Roger’s gracious invitation to attach an American flag to our antenna and “camp out” in our Ford Explorer.</p></div><div><p><b>#2 Don’t rush it </b></p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008812279,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008812279,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" class="align-center" alt="9008812279?profile=original" /></a></b></p></div><table align="center" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container"><tbody><tr><td><p></p></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><p><b>Arabs love racing their Saluki hunting dogs, <br /> one of the oldest domesticated dogs know to man. </b></p></td></tr></tbody></table><div><p>To get the real feel of the festival, you need at least 2 days to experience the many events. . . <b>Al Dhafra Mazayna</b> (camel beauty contests) are center stage but also offered are races – camel races, <b><a href="http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/saluki.htm">Saliuki</a> </b>(Arabian hunting dogs) races and Arabian horse races. There are competitions with falcons, dates, <b>Halab</b> (camel milking), photography, <b><a href="http://www.sheikhmohammed.com/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=98fdf9b743cb4110VgnVCM100000b0140a0aRCRD">Nabati</a></b> (Arab poetry) and handicrafts.</p></div><div><p>Go shopping at the camel auction, the livestock market, a camel “bling-bling” souq or a traditional heritage souk where you can purchase Emirati goods hand-made by local women. “Camp follower” vendors set up tents along the main road selling everything from ear-splitting audio speakers to food stuffs, firewood, clothes, pots and pans and more. Roger makes a beeline for the <b>Classic Car Contest</b> but its meager offerings do not set him on fire.</p></div><div><p><b>#3 Adjust quickly to Arab time</b></p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008812296,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008812296,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="427" class="align-center" alt="9008812296?profile=original" /></a></b></p></div><table align="center" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container"><tbody><tr><td><p></p></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><p><b>Camel Beauty contestant poses for the camera. </b></p></td></tr></tbody></table><div><p>This is a pure Arab experience. Don‘t expect to see a schedule and if you happen upon one understand it's only a suggestion. Events sometimes happen spontaneously, run late or not at all. However, there are some basic times for certain events. Camel beauty contests generally occur in the morning starting around 7am and again in the late afternoon; races are mostly in the afternoon; the souqs open around 2 pm and run well into the night. But not everything happens each day. See tip #4.</p></div><div><p><b>#4 Reach out and touch someone </b></p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008812863,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008812863,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="633" class="align-center" alt="9008812863?profile=original" /></a></b></p></div><table align="center" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container"><tbody><tr><td><p></p></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><p><b>Roger with kind gentleman who helped us find the horse races. </b></p></td></tr></tbody></table><div><p>You can’t be a shrinking violet if you want to get in on the good action. My tactic, which makes Roger cringe (I think it is a guy thing), is to talk to anyone I can find who speaks any amount of English. I inquire as to what is happening today, where and what time. I find most are eager to help an inquisitive American blonde.</p></div><div><p></p><p>It is important you not rely on one person’s answer. Think about the rule of journalism – you must have three independent sources before you can print it – most likely you will get conflicting information but just keep asking. When you find a good suspect you can even go so far as to ask him to take you there. He probably will politely oblige. Remember <b><a href="http://www.bedawi.com/Bedouin_Culture_EN.html">Bedu</a></b> hospitality is in play here and Bedouins are bound by a cultural tradition to help anyone they find lost in the desert. </p></div><div><p>If you see a cluster of expats being led by someone who looks official, just join the group. It's your best bet. A bonus would be to get an invitation for lunch or dinner at one of the tented compounds set up by festival participants.</p></div><div><p><b>#5 Become a participant whenever you can</b></p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296582095,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296582095,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" class="align-center" alt="9296582095?profile=original" /></a></b></p></div><table align="center" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container"><tbody><tr><td><p></p></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><p><b>Roger relaxing in the Camel Beauty Contests' reviewing stands. </b></p></td></tr></tbody></table><div><p>The races afford the opportunity to join the fun if you are brave enough. While the camels, horses and Salukis are running as fast as they can to win their races, owners and spectators are recklessly speeding alongside the track in their SUVs cheering them on. You too can join this merry ride if you are a good driver. I prefer to hitch a ride with someone else (all you have to do is ask) since it is a bit too “wild west” for my driving skills. Roger just won’t even talk about it. </p></div><div><p>When there are reviewing stands, always take a prominent seat so you can see all the action. For a really good time, try to find the “Magic Carpet Ride.” I will let you discover what that is. Hint: locate the <a href="http://tcaabudhabi.ae/en">Abu Dhabi Tourism and Cultural Authority</a> compound.</p></div><div><p><b>#6 Location, location, location</b></p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008813068,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008813068,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" class="align-full" alt="9008813068?profile=original" /></a></b></p></div><table align="center" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container"><tbody><tr><td><p></p></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><p><b>SUVs full of enthusiastic Arabs roar down the side of the track cheering on their prized Arabian horses.</b></p></td></tr></tbody></table><div><p>It is all about being in the right place at the right time. Rather than wait at the race finish lines we find it far more exciting to drive to the starting line and mix with the contestants and their owners. All the tracks we saw have dirt roads on both sides so you can drive down them to find the starting line. Caution . . . once the races start there will be a herd of crazies driving SUVs heading for the finish-line at breakneck speed alongside the sprinting animals – make certain you are well out of their way.</p></div><div><p>Didn't wake up in time for the camel beauty contest? Just stroll among the judging pens that are beyond the grandstands and pick out the ones you think are the most beautiful. Primer on judging a camel beauty contest to be posted soon. Be sure to read tip #9.</p></div><div><p><b>#7 Finding petrol in the desert </b></p><p><b><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y84sb6--tQw/Us_U3bZCUHI/AAAAAAAAEuk/qkX9JjPjBo8/s1600/IMG_0682+Roger+fueling+up+resized.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y84sb6--tQw/Us_U3bZCUHI/AAAAAAAAEuk/qkX9JjPjBo8/s1600/IMG_0682+Roger+fueling+up+resized.jpg" class="align-center" alt="IMG_0682+Roger+fueling+up+resized.jpg" /></a></b></p><p></p></div><table align="center" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;" width="549"><tbody><tr><td><p></p></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><p><strong>With our gas gauge hovering close to empty,</strong></p><p><strong>Roger says, "Shukran" to the festival organizers for providing a mobile fueling station. </strong></p></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align:center;"><p style="text-align:left;">Everyone knows the first rule of traveling to the desert is to go with a full tank of gas. But what do you do when you are there and the petrol stations are few and far between. The organizers of the camel festival have solved that problem for you with a portable fueling station. With our gas gauge hovering very close to empty, Roger gladly takes advantage of this service. Oh yes, you only want to visit the festival in a four-wheel drive vehicle since you don’t want to miss something interesting because you can’t drive off-road. </p></div><div style="text-align:center;"></div><div style="text-align:center;"><p style="text-align:left;"><b style="text-align:left;">#8 Eating at the festival</b><span style="text-align:left;"> </span></p></div><div style="text-align:center;"><p style="text-align:left;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-__Fl83aOdxE/Us_mq2PYBmI/AAAAAAAAEvo/UKLbqabIgEw/s1600/IMG_0662+horns+eyes+colored+resized.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-__Fl83aOdxE/Us_mq2PYBmI/AAAAAAAAEvo/UKLbqabIgEw/s1600/IMG_0662+horns+eyes+colored+resized.jpg" class="align-center" alt="IMG_0662+horns+eyes+colored+resized.jpg" /></a></p></div><table align="center" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;"><tbody><tr><td><p></p></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><p><b>Bar-B-Q Goat anyone? </b></p></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align:center;"><p style="text-align:left;">Street food vendors are plentiful serving traditional Bedu and Arab cuisine cooked on the spot. There are even a few “pop-up” restaurants. Feeding a crowd? Go to the livestock souq and purchase your meat for the evening’s feast - goat and lamb seem to be most plentiful. I bet you can even find someone who would cook it for you. If you are not wild about street food – or picking out your dinner from a corral, there is more traditional hotel fare at the adjacent Tilal Liwa Hotel.<b> </b>This year we had lunch at the Tilal bar. Can’t say we were overwhelmed with the food but it served the purpose. The bartender very cordially allowed me to teach him how to make a <a href="https://www.blogger.com/">dry martini</a> – he didn't know what it was - go figure! The second option is the Liwa Hotel about 30 minutes up the road in Liwa. We stayed overnight there and had a very nice buffet breakfast. </p></div><div style="text-align:center;"></div><div style="text-align:center;"></div><div style="text-align:center;"><p style="text-align:left;"><b>#9 Be careful what you admire . . . Mashallah</b></p><p style="text-align:left;"><b><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E3HJx6KzujY/Us_bE71P3MI/AAAAAAAAEvQ/2Usd3CBa4eA/s1600/IMG_0879+mother+and+baby+camel+resized.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E3HJx6KzujY/Us_bE71P3MI/AAAAAAAAEvQ/2Usd3CBa4eA/s1600/IMG_0879+mother+and+baby+camel+resized.jpg" class="align-center" alt="IMG_0879+mother+and+baby+camel+resized.jpg" /></a></b></p></div><table align="center" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;"><tbody><tr><td><p></p></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><p><b>Mashallah! Aren't these just the cutest camels? </b></p></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align:center;"><p style="text-align:left;">Be careful how you compliment a beautiful camel. You may end up taking it home. If you tell an owner, “What a beautiful camel you have,” it triggers Arabs’ generous nature and the owner could feel obliged to gift you with the admired dromedary.</p></div><div style="text-align:left;"></div><div style="text-align:left;"><p>In the Arab culture, always add <a href="http://www.islamic-dictionary.com/index.php?word=mashallah">“Mashallah” </a>to a compliment. This means “As God has willed it” and it glorifies Allah for anything which is pleasing or beautiful and gets you off the hook. It should be used whenever you praise or admire someone or something. Adding Mashallah to a personal compliment also guards that person from the <a href="http://www.islamicexorcism.com/evil-eye/">"evil eye."</a></p></div><div style="text-align:left;"></div><div style="text-align:left;"><p>My friend Linda tells the tale of being in Tunisia and admiring a friend’s stunning gold charm on her necklace, which the owner took off and presented to her as a gift.</p></div><div style="text-align:left;"></div><div style="text-align:left;"><p> “Of course, this cultural blunder resulted in my needing to return the favor with a present of a gold charm to her,” said Linda. “It was an expensive way to learn to add ‘Mashallah’ to my compliments.”</p></div><div style="text-align:left;"></div><div style="text-align:left;"><p>When Roger heard this he made me practice "Mashallah” 20 times just to protect us from any unexpected camels appearing on our doorstep.</p></div><div style="text-align:center;"></div><div style="text-align:center;"><p style="text-align:left;"><b>#10 The MUST see event of the festival</b></p><p style="text-align:left;"><b><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-La6e_HpnRB0/Us_Ve6vhEtI/AAAAAAAAEu8/Zo1KKiDeLKQ/s1600/IMG_0856oarade+colored+resized.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-La6e_HpnRB0/Us_Ve6vhEtI/AAAAAAAAEu8/Zo1KKiDeLKQ/s1600/IMG_0856oarade+colored+resized.jpg" class="align-center" alt="IMG_0856oarade+colored+resized.jpg" /></a></b></p><table align="center" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container"><tbody><tr><td><p></p></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><p><b>Million Street chaos. </b></p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="text-align:center;"><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="text-align:left;">Million Street . . . . this is hard to imagine. One of our first UAE road trips was to the Tilal Liwa Desert Resort where we saw the sign </span><b style="text-align:left;">“Million Street.”</b><span style="text-align:left;"> Not until we visited the festival did we learn what that meant. At around 4:30 pm every day during the festival there is the</span><b style="text-align:left;"><i> parade</i></b><span style="text-align:left;"> - this is a pageantry of camel beauty contestant winners who are for sale - road is so named because millions and millions of dirhams change hands in the buying and selling of camels on this street during the festival. It is a tad out of control.</span></p><p style="text-align:left;"></p></div><div style="text-align:left;"><p>Zooming around the parading camels are cars full of excited participants robustly cheering, FRANTICALLY honking their horns, joyfully backfiring their engines, and blasting loud Arab music in celebration of their camel’s win. In the middle of the chaos, camel handlers proudly strut their award-winning dromedaries down the broad dirt boulevard with as much aplomb as a bevy of fashion models on the runway. And then you have the “escapee” camels who have managed to elude their handlers and are running wildly amongst everything else. Oh, and don’t forget the fearless photographer who gets right out into the middle of the fray and her darling husband sitting in the car just holding his head in his hands. This bedlam continues long into the night.</p><p> </p></div><div style="text-align:left;"><p>Well there you have it. Your personal guide to enjoying a camel festival. We will back next year! Inshallah! Hope we see you there. </p></div><div style="text-align:center;"></div><div style="text-align:center;"><p style="text-align:left;"><b><i>Postscripts . . .</i></b></p><p style="text-align:left;"><b><i><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IGPsSVL3WVs/Us_UwpzLpZI/AAAAAAAAEuc/WLUJPtTovFc/s1600/IMG_9928+fest+sign+cropped+resized.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IGPsSVL3WVs/Us_UwpzLpZI/AAAAAAAAEuc/WLUJPtTovFc/s1600/IMG_9928+fest+sign+cropped+resized.jpg" class="align-center" alt="IMG_9928+fest+sign+cropped+resized.jpg" /></a></i></b></p></div><p class="separator" style="text-align:center;"><i><b> </b></i></p><div style="text-align:center;"><p style="text-align:left;"><i><b>The Al Dhafra Festival,</b> formally in its seventh year, actually started 21 years ago to settle an argument between a father and his son-in-law as to who had the most beautiful camel. Today, it has grown into an iconic camel festival where hundreds of buyers and sellers come from the across the UAE and surrounding Arab countries. The festival strives to preserve and promote Emirati heritage and the pure bred Asayel (tan) and Mahajim (black) camels. </i></p></div><div style="text-align:left;"><p><b><i> </i></b></p></div><div style="text-align:center;"><p style="text-align:left;"><b><i>Directions:</i></b><i> On E11 past Abu Dhabi take exit #236 towards Madinat Zayed. After passing through Madinat Zayed you can follow signs to the festival or to the Tilal Liwa hotel. This is how the festival was set up in 2013 . . . Once you turn off the highway, continue straight on that road. On our left was the livestock souq and tents selling different goods; on our right on top of a dune was the traditional souq; next to this souq was an encampment of tents where they were selling camel bling-bling. Continuing on this same road, on our left is a smallish white building - site of the camel and saluki races. Following signs to Tilal Liwa Hotel we turned left at a roundabout; as we approached another roundabout we saw a long structure in front of us. This is where the camel beauty contest was held with the holding pens for the camel contestants behind it. On our right was the sign for Million Road. The Tilal Liwa Hotel is just beyond all of this.</i></p><p></p><p style="text-align:left;"><i><strong>Photo </strong><b>Album</b> </i></p><p style="text-align:left;"><i><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T1-nsXNJdTs/Us_pisKLnqI/AAAAAAAAEw4/BBnW7Jzg89Q/s1600/IMG_0380+camels+million+street+sign+colored+resized.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T1-nsXNJdTs/Us_pisKLnqI/AAAAAAAAEw4/BBnW7Jzg89Q/s1600/IMG_0380+camels+million+street+sign+colored+resized.jpg" class="align-center" alt="IMG_0380+camels+million+street+sign+colored+resized.jpg" /></a></i></p><p style="text-align:left;"></p><p style="text-align:left;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TM9QbX_g2Mc/Us_o2xeHcEI/AAAAAAAAEwA/pFpZ-5xTcMM/s1600/IMG_0020+3+guy+falcon+resized.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TM9QbX_g2Mc/Us_o2xeHcEI/AAAAAAAAEwA/pFpZ-5xTcMM/s1600/IMG_0020+3+guy+falcon+resized.jpg" class="align-center" alt="IMG_0020+3+guy+falcon+resized.jpg" /></a></p><p style="text-align:left;"></p><p style="text-align:left;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EEiOxsfOOW4/Us_o_nM_NmI/AAAAAAAAEwI/XBHxkcV_vcc/s1600/IMG_0163+horses+out+of+the+shoot+resized.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EEiOxsfOOW4/Us_o_nM_NmI/AAAAAAAAEwI/XBHxkcV_vcc/s1600/IMG_0163+horses+out+of+the+shoot+resized.jpg" class="align-center" alt="IMG_0163+horses+out+of+the+shoot+resized.jpg" /></a></p><p style="text-align:left;"></p><p style="text-align:left;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m-w46sp60fI/Us_pD7NZduI/AAAAAAAAEwQ/wWf75Gp9YjY/s1600/IMG_0248+praying+resized.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m-w46sp60fI/Us_pD7NZduI/AAAAAAAAEwQ/wWf75Gp9YjY/s1600/IMG_0248+praying+resized.jpg" class="align-center" alt="IMG_0248+praying+resized.jpg" /></a></p><p style="text-align:left;"></p><p style="text-align:left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V0-94RgMWjI/Us_pKBvsArI/AAAAAAAAEwY/8BxVCNPTXho/s1600/IMG_0464+camel+bling+bling+colored+resized.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V0-94RgMWjI/Us_pKBvsArI/AAAAAAAAEwY/8BxVCNPTXho/s1600/IMG_0464+camel+bling+bling+colored+resized.jpg" class="align-center" alt="IMG_0464+camel+bling+bling+colored+resized.jpg" /></a></p><p style="text-align:left;"></p><p style="text-align:left;"></p><p style="text-align:left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OUBSj9bnfeQ/Us_pTW_vqPI/AAAAAAAAEwg/cQQfkyrihgU/s1600/IMG_0991+camels+and+dunes+colored+resized.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OUBSj9bnfeQ/Us_pTW_vqPI/AAAAAAAAEwg/cQQfkyrihgU/s1600/IMG_0991+camels+and+dunes+colored+resized.jpg" class="align-center" alt="IMG_0991+camels+and+dunes+colored+resized.jpg" /></a></p><p style="text-align:left;"></p><p style="text-align:left;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QzDHrFvz5eE/Us_pZkhwNDI/AAAAAAAAEwo/8p-brebqZw8/s1600/IMG_1014+man+and+camel+resized.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QzDHrFvz5eE/Us_pZkhwNDI/AAAAAAAAEwo/8p-brebqZw8/s1600/IMG_1014+man+and+camel+resized.jpg" class="align-center" alt="IMG_1014+man+and+camel+resized.jpg" /></a></p><p style="text-align:left;"></p><p style="text-align:left;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dhhGAs3vhzg/Us_pdc0zuuI/AAAAAAAAEww/65BNKV-r5xE/s1600/IMG_1023+camles+colored+resized.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dhhGAs3vhzg/Us_pdc0zuuI/AAAAAAAAEww/65BNKV-r5xE/s1600/IMG_1023+camles+colored+resized.jpg" class="align-center" alt="IMG_1023+camles+colored+resized.jpg" /></a></p><p style="text-align:left;"></p><p style="text-align:left;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YKVM4QmiLeI/Us_os_hdt5I/AAAAAAAAEv4/N6lrZGTNJVw/s1600/IMG_0707+ghazel+resized.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YKVM4QmiLeI/Us_os_hdt5I/AAAAAAAAEv4/N6lrZGTNJVw/s1600/IMG_0707+ghazel+resized.jpg" class="align-center" alt="IMG_0707+ghazel+resized.jpg" /></a></p><p style="text-align:left;"></p><p style="text-align:left;"></p></div></div>
Las Vegas Winter Food and Wine Festival
https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/las-vegas-winter-food-and-wine-festival
2013-11-22T14:01:21.000Z
2013-11-22T14:01:21.000Z
Steve Mirsky
https://tripatini.com/members/SteveMirsky964
<div><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/lacucinatable.jpg"><img class="alignleft wp-image-4149" alt="lacucinatable" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/lacucinatable.jpg" width="336" height="504" /></a>You should be planning ahead...marking time off and reserving your room for a <a href="http://www.venetian.com/Las-Vegas-Entertainment/Special-Events/La-Cucina-Italiana/">4-day Vegas getaway December 5-8,</a> preferably at the Venetian-Palazzo because this is where indulgence lives. Here fabulous can't-miss culinary events await that will make returning to the “real world” extremely difficult. Consider this your road map:</p><p><strong>Day 1 – Thurs. Dec. 5th</strong> - Be sure to arrive in Vegas with plenty of time to make <a href="http://www.venetian.com/Las-Vegas-Entertainment/Special-Events/La-Cucina-Italiana/"><b><i>La Cucina Italiana</i> <i>Food & Wine Festival's</i></b></a> kick off event, <b><i>Dinner with Wolfgang</i></b> at the <a href="http://www.palazzo.com/Las-Vegas-Restaurants/Fine-Dining/CUT/">Palazzo's CUT</a>. Wolfgang Puck and Dario Cecchini, the famed singing butcher of Panzano, aim to up the “steaks” at this intimate dinner delighting you with lively stories and a carnivore’s dream spread featuring Cecchini’s traditional Tuscan-style dishes. Then go straight to bed...don't get drawn into poker rounds just yet.</p><p><strong>Day 2 – Fri. Dec. 6th</strong> - Hit the tables, slots, pool deck, climb the Palazzo's indoor rock wall, walk the strip...whatever it takes to work up an appetite for that crowning hour of 7 p.m. when the Venetian's Grand Colonade is transformed into a Grand Banquet reminiscent of King Arthur's Court. Grab a seat for the ultimate Tuscan-style feast prepared by Mario Batali & Dario Cecchini featuring veal Carpaccio, 24-month <em>Galardi</em> prosciutto, risotto with white truffle, and in Batali’s own words “porchetta to end all porchettas<i>.</i>” His enthusiam heightens, “This will conjure meals eaten in Italy, where banquets are spread out quite literally in the middle of a street...common in a Tuscan or Umbrian village...not so much in the heart of the Vegas Strip.”</p><p><strong>Day 3 – Sat. Dec. 7th</strong> – Today is your hands-on coming to grips with creating some classic Italian dishes for yourself. Meet at the Palazzo Waterfall Atrium at 11:00 a.m. for “How to Italian” experiences throughout the day:</p><blockquote><h5><b>How to Make the Grandest Italian Cake with Buddy Valastro</b></h5><br /> <a href="http://www.tlc.com/tv-shows/cake-boss">“Cake Boss” Buddy Valastro</a> will create a grand creation before your eyes. Get your Instagram ready!<h5><b>Whip Up Some Gelato with <em>L’Albero</em> <i>dei Gelati</i></b></h5><br /> L’Albero will take the audience through the step-by-step process of mixing conventional and unusual flavors such as blue cheese, yellow pepper,<p>cheddar and other ingredients sourced from small sustainable producers.</p><h5><b>How to Make Fresh Sicilian Cannoli with <i>A’Putia</i> New York</b></h5><p><br /> Giacomo d’Alessandro owner and pastry chef of <i>A’putia</i> uses ingredients like fresh sheep ricotta he imports direct from Sicily.</p><h5><b>Navigate the World of Artisanal Italian Beer</b></h5><p><br /> Cicerones, the sommeliers of beer will guide guests on a tasting tour of unique Italian beers.</p><h5><b>Craft Fresh Mozzarella with Belgioioso</b></h5><p><br /> <a href="http://www.belgioioso.com/">BelGioioso</a>, Wisconsin’s premier cheese maker specializing in classic Italian cheeses, will teach you how to prepare delicious fresh mozzarella at home.</p></blockquote><p><br /> <strong>Day 4 Sunday glorious Sunday Dec 8</strong> <b><i>–</i></b> Hope you didn’t party too hard last night because you’ll want to get a relatively early-for-Vegas</p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/blue-skies-pancakes.jpg"><img class="wp-image-4150" alt="LAVO Proper Brunch Blue Sky Pancakes" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/blue-skies-pancakes.jpg" width="614" height="408" /></a></p><p>start today. Before embarking on your <a href="http://www.venetian.com/Las-Vegas-Entertainment/Special-Events/La-Cucina-Italiana/">truffle hunt</a> beginning 11 a.m. at <a href="http://www.bandbristorante.com/">B&B Ristorante</a>, duck into <a href="http://www.lavolv.com/">LAVO’s new Proper Brunch</a>. For the kid in you…<strong><i>PB&J Pancakes</i></strong> filled with Reese's Pieces topped with strawberry sauce and fresh whipped cream. A healthier approach, <strong><i>Blue Skies Pancakes</i></strong>, is a hot stack of white polenta cakes studded with fresh blueberries and topped with blueberry compote and yogurt covered blueberries. Or in keeping with the day’s theme, order a house-ground Meyer Farm <strong><i>Proper Burger</i></strong> topped with tomato jam, Bibb lettuce, heirloom tomatoes, cherry wood bacon and a side of hand cut truffle fries.</p><p>Then it’s off on the truffle hunt across 3 restaurants sampling each creation paired with wine.</p><blockquote><em>Tickets for each day's events are <a href="https://oss.ticketmaster.com/aps/venetian/EN/buy/browse?g%5B0%5D=10570">sold separately</a>. Photos courtesy of Venetian-Palazzo Vegas</em></blockquote></div>