Need a break from your day job? Tired of watching the basketball playoffs with your man? Has a trip to Bed, Bath and Beyond become the highlight of your week? If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, it’s time for a girls getaway.

There’s no better place than the Big Apple to bond with your lady friends. It’s no wonder the sophisticated women of Sex and the City and Gossip Girl call Manhattan home– from tame to wild, New York City offers plenty of attractions for a girl’s night out.

The following 5 picks are based on my personal experience as a New Yorker with a solid history of bridal shower, bachelorette party and girl-bonding adventures. Share your own picks by leaving a comment below!

Top 5 Girlfriend Getaway Activities

Ranked from “Zen” to “Wild”

#5. Spa Day

A spa day is a great way to bond with the girls! (Photo: Oasis Day Spa)

Want less drama in your life? Gather your girlfriends for a relaxing spa getaway. I recently visited Oasis Day Spa with my good friend and fellow traveler Charu of Butterfly Diary. She opted for a pregnancy message while I enjoyed a “Sleep Well” massage that melted away the stress of living and working in the country’s fastest-paced metropolis. The combination of aromatherapy– via a scented oil containing Lavender flowers, Marjoram leaves, Cedar wood & Ylang/Ylang petals– and the skillful hands of my masseuse, Carrie, had me drifting off to sleep at the massage table. The Oasis Day Spa offers party packages with customizable options like massages, facials, body scrubs, manicures and make-up applications.

#4. High Tea

Enjoy high tea in the Big Apple at Lady Mendl's Tea Salon.

Looking for an excuse to wear a frilly hat and wrap dress like the Duchess of Cambridge (aka Great Britain’s “Princess Kate”)? Head to Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon, located in an unassuming town house in Manhattan’s posh Grammercy Park neighborhood. You’ll enjoy a five-course royal tea service that includes classic dishes like cucumber sandwiches and crumpets and clotted cream. The wide selection of teas ranges from green and white to classic black, each accompanied by slices of candied ginger. This is a great alternative to brunch and serves as a sophisticated bridal shower venue.

#3. Brunch

Brunch is a classic New York City activity. (Photo: Flickr/cherrylet)

Brunch is a quintessential New York City experience. Unleash your inner Carrie Bradshaw by gathering the girls at Cafe Orlin, a popular East Village eatery, for Eggs Benedict and a mimosa. This breakfast hot spot has been featured in several Hollywood productions including the TV show Smash and the upcoming film Vamps. The affordable brunch special features organic eggs, cappuccino and fresh squeezed OJ. Both indoor and outdoor seats are packed on summer weekends, so make sure to arrive before noon or late in the day to snag a plum spot (brunch is served until 4 PM).

#2. Pole Dancing Class

Pole dancing is great exercise and a fun group activity. (Photo: Flickr/Lululemon athletica)

Want to do something fun and sexy that you won’t regret the next morning? Skip the all-male revue and sign up for a group pole-dancing class. A cross between stripping and a gym class, this intense workout will tone tone your arms, thighs and behind while giving you a few sensual moves to bring home to your man. I recently honed my pole dancing skills with a group of girlfriends at Long Island’s Fitness Loft, but a variety of NYC venues offer these courses, including gyms and specialized centers like Body & Pole and New York Pole.

#1. Evening of Burlesque

Le Scandal Cabaret features a sword swallower and other unique acts.

If you think a girl’s night out isn’t complete without cocktails, dancing and partial nudity, head to Hell’s Kitchen for a burlesque show. Le Scandal Cabaret is a popular bachelorette party venue that features creative acts like an elderly woman who swallows two-foot swords and a human doll who strips down to her pasties. The show is sexy, funny and decidedly female-friendly. It is run by a woman, stars mainly women (with the occasional male magician or pianist), and caters to a largely female clientele. After enjoying a few cocktails at Le Scandal Cabaret, hit up the many bars along Ninth Avenue in the 40s and 50s. Hint: Make sure to time your visit during Fleet Week for maximum enjoyment!

What’s your favorite girl’s night out activity?

Share your picks with other readers by leaving a comment below! If you are reading this post via email or RSS feed, make sure to click on DowntownTraveler.com to leave your comment.

Note: The writer received a complimentary “Sleep Well” massage from the Oasis Day Spa in order to evaluate their service and write this review.

New York City has it all– including London’s hottest art fair. Frieze New York made its debut this weekend on Randall’s Island off the coast of Manhattan. Normally based in Regent’s Park, London, the Frieze fair showcases over 170 contemporary art galleries in a unique space.

New York and foreign accents mingled in the massive, custom-made tent and sculpture garden during Frieze’s sold-out weekend run. The fair ends Monday but tickets are sure to be in short supply.

Scroll down for photos of the first annual Frieze New York festival. For the names of the artists who created these works, click on the photos to arrive at Downtown Traveler’s Flickr page (artists are credited in the photo titles).

Island getaway

After purchasing timed tickets for a 12PM entry, I boarded a ferry on Manhattan’s East Side with independent curator Krista Saunders (also known as the Bespoke Curator). The outing took on the air of a weekend getaway, as we snapped photos of the Chrysler building and reminisced about the recent Armory Arts Week shows. That series of art fairs in March set the bar quite high and we weren’t sure what to expect of Frieze.

From the moment we stepped on Randall’s Island, we knew we were in for a treat.

Sculpture garden

Sculptures were placed throughout Randall Island’s perfectly-manicured park, which was dotted with picnic tables. Many of the artists were well known and had instantly recognizable work, like Louise Bourgeois with her silver beehives; others were new to me, like Jeppe Hein, the creator of a mirrored cube that drew a steady crowd. During our 15-minute walk through the sculpture garden I spotted several shopping carts stuffed with plastic bags; these would normally be associated with homelessness but in this context was almost certainly a work of art.

Apocalypse Now

I spotted a hot new trend in my last art world outing: zombie art. While there was at least one depiction of the “living dead” art at Frieze, a more popular theme was the apocalypse and its close companion, the conspiracy theory. Several works hinted at the end of days while others searched for government conspiracies in media clippings. Thomas Hirshhorn was the main promulgator of this trend; I could spend hours dissecting the newspaper clippings and handwritten notes on his epic collage, The Map of Headlessness. Viewing a painting by artist Jakub Julian Ziolkowski, I was reminded of another side of the apocalypse: bare breasts, lips and hands merged together in a modern-day Bacchanal.

Cowboy culture

A number of galleries at Frieze New York featured Western-themed work, from cowboys to horses and native Americans. The most fascinating were a series of beaded panels by Iranian artist Farhad Moshiri that depicted American cowboys with an impressive level of detail. His wild-west characters contrasted with the busts of Cairo-based artist Huda Lutfi, who is represented by the same Dubai gallery.

1990s Nostalgia

If you came of age in the 1990s, you’ll feel at home at Frieze. Several artists paid tribute to the decade, including Michael St John’s homage to Kurt Cobain, Gelitin’s vintage plush toy sculpture and Anselm Reyle’s neon-colored, paint-by-the-numbers artwork.

South Bronx Project

In the only act of performance art I witnessed during my 7 hours at Frieze, John Ahearn and his colleague Rigoberto Torres prepared to cover a man in plaster in front of a growing crowd. They were paying tribute to their 1979 exhibit, “South Bronx Hall of Fame,” in which Ahearn made plaster casts of 40 New Yorkers. According to the NY Daily News, fans of the artist paid $3,000 each to have their casts made at the Frieze show.

Soaking up the scene

While the artwork was impressive, one of the highlights of Frieze New York was the people-watching. The giant tent was buzzing with energy as art lovers from around the world gathered to discover, discuss and photograph contemporary art and to make valuable connections.

Thanks to the remote location, the custom-built structure and the presence of art heavy weights, Frieze New York truly feel like a “happening.” I didn’t mind that my egg salad sandwich cost $9 or that the beer garden was so crowded I sat on the floor; those small complaints paled in comparison to the fair’s merits.

Frieze provided a classic New York experience while serving as a much-needed escape from the hum of Manhattan.

What do you think about Frieze New York?

Share your travel tips with other readers by leaving a comment below! If you are reading this post via email or RSS feed, make sure to click on DowntownTraveler.com to leave your comment.

Today’s contributor is Laura Mannering, a London-based travel writer and editor of online travel magazine World Out There.

It would be easy to spend a week in Amsterdam touring its canals, markets and museums, losing afternoons in coffee shops and staying out all night. But, on a recent visit, I had just eight hours in the city, so had to come up with a focused plan of attack.

After finishing work in London on a Friday evening, I hopped on an overnight ferry from Harwich, on England’s east coast. The boat landed at Hook of Holland, 48 miles south of Amsterdam.

I took an easy 90-minute train ride from the port to the city and from the carriage window I got my first glimpse of quintessential Holland – fields of tulips in spring-time bloom. Wide strips of purple and red flowers created colorful bar-codes and every now and then the swathes of tulips were punctuated by fields entirely planted with white or yellow daffodils.

Amsterdam is known for its canals. (Photo: Laura Mannering)

I arrived at Amsterdam Central at around 10.30am for my whistle-stop day trip and decided to home in on a couple of contrasting areas – the risque Red Light District and the more tranquil, bohemian Jordaan.

Armed with local insight from friends who had spent time there and a genial tour guide called Kees, I managed to get a good feel for this rebel city – famed for its tolerance and determination not to do what it’s told.

Here are my top five recommendations for how to get to the heart of Amsterdam, even if you only have a few hours…

#5. Hire a bike and hope for the best

Biking is a great way to see Amsterdam. (Photo: Laura Mannering)

I am not a natural bike rider, so hiring one was a kamikaze mission, especially in a city where residents seem to have been born on two wheels. They float effortlessly along the water’s edge and through dense crowds, while I jump off my bike at the first sign of trouble. But if you want to fit in, it has to be done.

There are plenty of places to find bikes for rent – I used Hotel Scooters and Bikes (Spuistraat 30), which charges 12.50 euros ($16) for the day. The main roads have bike lanes and there are lots of small back streets to ride down in the city center, so you can avoid traffic and people.

I spent most of the day cycling, with only a few near misses, and it was a great way to cover more distance in the limited time I had. Just make sure you lock up your bike if you’re leaving it for any length of time.

#4. Don’t be afraid of the Red Light District

Amsterdam's Red Light District (photo: Valdiney Pimenta/Flickr)

Hiring a tour guide isn’t my usual approach – I much prefer to wander on my own. But my morning with Amsterdam local Kees gives me some great insights into the city and meant I didn’t waste time getting lost.

While he rolled a constant supply of cigarettes from his pouch of Drum tobacco, we made our way along the wide canal of Oudezijds Voorburgwal and its offshoots, lined with bars and brothels.

Amsterdam’s world-famous Red Light District is as integral a part of the city as canals and bikes. According to Kees, prostitution has been rife here since the 15th century, when sailors went to sea and their wives were left behind to make a living.

Street mural in the Red Light District. (Photo: Laura Mannering)

Twelve years ago, prostitution was officially legalized and brothels were forced to get licenses as part of a clampdown on pimps, he tells me. Prostitutes now pay tax on their earnings – they hire rooms for 60 to 80 euros and work eight to ten hour shifts, taking an average 50 euros per client.

This neighborhood is right in the heart of the city, centered around two picturesque canals, which are also home to churches, schools and some of the most sought-after waterside properties in Amsterdam.

It’s a strange scene – locals going about their day-to-day chores, tour groups being shown around, and women of all shapes, sizes, ages and nationalities posing in their underwear in the plate glass windows lining these streets, as early as 11am. One woman applies her make-up in a mirror, a bed behind in full view, with a cushion thrown across it embroidered with the word ‘love’.

This zone and all its temptations (including plenty of dope-smoking coffee shops and ‘smart shops’ selling hallucinogens) exemplifies Amsterdam’s different take on the world – it tries to cater to human desires and control them all at once. The balance between tolerance and a desire for order is a quintessential part of the city’s character and its history, which is why a visit to this famous quarter is a must.

#3. Discover the boho delights of Jordaan

Dutch cheeses for sale at a Jordaan market. (Photo: Laura Mannering)

The western neighborhood of Jordaan has a reputation for artistic disobedience and is slightly off the tourist trail. It’s great for shopping, browsing and people watching, with a range of cute boutiques, small galleries, cafes, bars and restaurants.

From the 1850s to 1960s, Jordaan was mired in poverty and the government wanted to bulldoze the area – in protest at the demolition plans, students, artists and hippies moved in to the derelict buildings and the area was given new life.

Go to main street Westerstraat for everything from organic cheese at the busy bio market to amazing Perspex designer furniture from design store Anno.

Nearby are brilliant contemporary galleries Go Gallery on the major canal Prinsengracht and, round the corner, KochxBos (Eerste Anjeliersdwarsstraat 5), both central to the neighborhood thriving art scene.

Also worth a visit is vintage shop De Kleedkamer (2E Egelantiersdwarsstraat 8), which features hats by Dutch designer Le Mo. And don’t miss old-fashioned sweet shop Snoepwinkeltje (at number 2 on the same street), which specializes in Amsterdam’s sweet specialty, liquorice. Varieties include honey and bay-leaf flavors,

#2. Head to the ‘hofjes’

The Raepenhofje garden in Jordaan. (Photo: Laura Mannering)

Also in Jordaan are some of the city’s unique ‘hofjes’. These former alms houses are easy to miss but well worth seeking out. Built around secluded inner courtyards, they date back to the Middle Ages and used to house elderly women, or women in need.

Now they are home to Amsterdam locals, who enjoy the historic buildings, white picket fences, shady trees, lawns and flowers of these inner sanctums. All are open to the public and free to enter.

My favorite was the Raepenhofje (Palmgracht 28 to 38), a tiny unexpected courtyard in the north of the Jordaan, built in 1648 and hidden behind a big wooden red door. With pretty painted facades, box hedges, lots of greenery and, of course, a bike shed, it’s a cozy escape from the world outside.

#1. Eat and drink with the locals

Savory treats at the Le Perron stall in Nieuwmarkt. (Photo: Laura Mannering)

Amsterdam does food well – wholesome and home-cooked, with fresh ingredients. The city pays particular homage to coffee, beer and carbs – great bread and cake are staples.

My first coffee of the day was a latte in the sun on the terrace at Café in de Waag, a beautiful 15th century building on Nieuwmarket square, just east of the Red Light District. As with most hot drinks in the city, my coffee was served with something sweet – this time a toffee waffle on the side.

The café sits opposite a small market which was selling bright bunches of tulips and piles of the season’s (non-magic) mushroom crop – I followed the crowds of locals to the Le Perron bakery stall, where I grabbed a warm, chewy coconut macaroon to see me through until lunchtime…

The Jordaan is ideal for lunch and people watching. I sat outside at Tazzina (Brouwersgracht 139) and tucked in to a delicious smoked mackerel and salad roll. A tiny canal-side café with a ‘no laptop’ policy, Tazzina was filled with friends and couples who had settled in for a relaxed graze.

A street performer in Jordaan, Amsterdam. (Photo: Laura Mannering)

After picking up a bag of delicious vanilla fudge from Snoepwinkeltje (see above) for an afternoon snack, I ended my day in the welcoming, canal-side pub t’smalle at the east edge of the Jordaan (Egelantiersgracht 12) for a glass of Zatte – a deep orange, honey-tasting beer.

I envied the plates of Dutch cheese being tucked into by other customers, but I had a train to catch. Tight for time, I ended up giving the last half of my beer to an elderly busker who had come to sit beside me. ‘Less haste more speed’ he advised me, in perfect English…

Hopping on the ferry that night and making my way back to London for Sunday morning, I promised myself that, next time, I’d linger much longer in this great city.

Laura Mannering traveled to Amsterdam with Stena Line ferries and took a cycle tour of the Red Light District and Jordaan with Viator. The writer was not compensated for this post but received sponsored excursions for the purpose of writing this review.  All opinions expressed are solely her own.

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About the Author

Laura Mannering is a freelance journalist and editor of online travel magazine World Out There.

She was inspired to set up the blog after a 10-month career break spent traveling around the world. Now back in London, she writes features for UK magazines and is a regular contributor to online events guide le cool London.

Find her on Twitter at @world_out_there.

Thanks to the shenanigans of the US Secret Service, the Colombian coastal city of Cartagena has been mentioned a lot of late. But there’s much more to the city than the seedier elements being discussed on the cable news networks.

The fifth largest city in Colombia, Cartagena offers an array of cultural attractions including colonial architecture, an Inquisition Museum and a 500-year-old Spanish fortress. It is also a launching point for boat trips to white-sand Caribbean beaches.

Cartagena is truly a walkable city with hotels, cafes and historical sites located within the bustling ‘old city’ district. The following sites are all easily accessible from the center of town.

Exploring the Old City

Located in northern Colombia, Cartagena has a distinctly Caribbean feel; you might even mistake the modern port (fringed by high rise condominiums) for Miami. The main tourist draw, however, is not the upscale waterfront but the beautifully-preserved colonial city known as “ciudad amurallada.” This walled-off area offers cafes, museums, public sculptures and authentic colonial buildings.

Downtown Cartagena is the oldest part of the city and is surrounded by a giant wall built by the Spanish several hundred years ago for protection against attacks. Plazas within the old city are dotted with street cafes– a great place to stop for a drink– and sculptures by Colombian artists like Botero.

You’ll notice the name Pedro de Heredia, a Spanish commander who founded Cartagena, on monuments and buildings throughout the city.

In addition to upscale properties, there are plenty of simple, inexpensive  hotels located within the walls of the old city. It is refreshing to see that colonial architecture has not been replaced by high rises in this historic area.

The Inquisition Museum

I often get bored going to museum after museum, but the City Museum Palace of the Inquisition kept my interest by showing dozens of creepy and creative torture devices from the Spanish Inquisition that took place in Cartagena in the 17th-19th centuries.

This museum is located in the heart of Cartagena and provides many photo ops– so you can pose next to a wooden guillotine or a range of bizarre torture devices.

16th-Century Fortress

About a 20 minute walk from the city center is the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, the largest fortress ever built in the Spanish colonies.

The original fort was constructed in the 1500s and was greatly expanded about a 100 years later. Despite numerous attempts it was never penetrated.

An extensive system of tunnels is connected underground the fortress to distribute provisions and facilitate evacuation, many of which are open to explore.

The top of the fort offers views of the whole city, including the more modern metropolitan area of Cartagena in the distance.

While Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is the largest and most famous of the surrounding forts, there are many others dotting the coastline all over the area.

Pristine Beaches

There are many beaches in the area, though the nicest ones require a boat trip to get to. A nearby island, Isla del Rosario, is included on most boat trips but can be crowded and a bit disappointing. Far superior is Playa Blanca, a white sandy beach with gorgeous clear water, and more space to get away from the crowds.

Have you visited Cartagena?

Share your travel tips with other readers by leaving a comment below! If you are reading this post via email or RSS feed, make sure to click on DowntownTraveler.com to leave your comment.

This post is brought to you by Aqua Resorts, a Downtown Traveler partner.

When you think of Hawaii, you likely experience a colorful onslaught to the senses in the form of tastes, smells, images and emotions. While we have pictures and video to remind of us of what we experienced, smell and taste are the most primal and lasting sensations. Mango, coconut, papaya and pineapple all come to mind, as well as myriad other flavors like pork, fresh fish and ginger. But what is the best way to experience all that is going on right now, as the foodie movement moves forward with abandon?

Liquid Lava

One of our favorite ways to “experience” the taste of aloha has been via Hawaiian-style cocktails like the Pina Colada, Mai Tai and, of course, the Blue Hawaiian. On Hawaii vacations, these indulgences are often par for the course. These may be standouts, but they are not alone, and certainly not relegated to only Hawaii.

Tropical cocktails (Photo: NathanF/Flickr Creative Commons)

Polynesian-themed bars have cropped up across the continental U.S., in places like San Francisco’s Trad’r Sams or New York’s Hurricane Club, all boasting to utilize the best of the islands. I must say that this is a misguided endeavor. After just one evening spent sipping a punchbowl-sized concoction of fruit puree, a dozen types of alcohol and a scoop of ice cream, one might decide to call it quits altogether with Hawaiian cocktails.

For a true taste of Hawaii, experience what the locals are sipping and nibbling and you will be pleasantly surprised. No sugar hangover required!

For starters, once you’re off the mainland, you’re in good hands. Most Honolulu hotels and restaurants feature ingredients local to Hawaii as part of the Hawaiian Regional Cuisine movement, which emphasizes locally-grown produce farmed as sustainably as possible.

Replete with rum, vodka and plenty of citrus, favorite local cocktails include Paddler’s Passion, Lava Flow and Hula Girl. Say goodbye to bottled drink mixes forever!

Mobile Mahalo

They made it to Hawaii! Major cities in the coastal U.S. have enjoyed a devoted foodie following, so it only makes sense that the family-oriented, welcoming community of Hawaii would experience the same.

One of my favorite off-the-radar foodie destinations is Oahu’s Pupukea Grill, a lunchwagon nestled next to the service station across from Shark’s Cove on the infamous North Shore. Locals like to brag that if you’re there, it’s because someone told you to go there. Most tourists are directed by lifeguards, and come from all over to taste the delectable offerings.

What makes this place stand out amongst others is its variety of HEALTHY offerings, like acai bowls filled with strawberries, blueberries, coconut, granola and honey; farm fresh salads, paninis, wraps and shrimp bowls. Everything is fresh, made to order, and prepared personally by a skilled chef. You can taste the love.

An acai bowl filled with fresh fruit. (Photo: Robert.Montalvo/Flickr Creative Commons)

Savor the Seasons

Stuck on what to eat, where and when? There are numerous festivals devoted to JUST FOOD throughout the islands!

Oahu throws it down in June, with Taste of Honululu. September is Maui’s turn to shine with the two-day Taste of Lahaina, featuring everything from mahi-mahi over rice to spaghetti and meatballs. Wailea has its own event with top chefs preparing some of the region’s best food, accompanied by some of the best wines.

Lastly, Big Island’s Kona Coffee Cultural Festival takes place each November, offering 10 days of coffee tastings, art and community events.

Kona Coffee Cultural Festival (Photo: Hawaii County/Flickr Creative Commons)

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What’s your favorite Hawaiian dish or cocktail? Share your pick with other readers by leaving a comment below!

Do you dream of going on an epic adventure like Indiana Jones? You’re in luck!

You don’t need an archaeology degree to explore the Egyptian pyramids, the Lost City or Angkor Wat– just a sense of adventure. Many of the world’s most fascinating ruins are located near major cities and can be easily accessed by plane, train or automobile.

These are the eight most fascinating ruins I have visited during my travels. Is your favorite destination missing from this list? Share your pick by leaving a comment below!

#8) Ayutthaya, Thailand

If you are visiting Thailand don’t miss the chance to explore this historical landmark. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is a 2-hour train ride from Bangkok but is a world away.

The second capital of Thailand’s Ayutthaya (or Siamese) Kingdom, the city was founded  around 1350 by King U Thong and was destroyed in 1767 during a Burmese invasion. All that remains are the crumbling ruins of stone towers and monastery buildings.

The Ayutthaya ruins are known for their ornate, bright red prang (reliquary towers) and buddha statues. Interestingly, many of the statues are headless, although one often-photographed statue is a bust of Buddha that has been enveloped by a tree.

>> For more info: Visit the Ayutthaya Wikitravel page for helpful tips.

#7) Quilmes, Argentina

Travelers come to Argentina for many reasons– tango, wine, gauchos and steak come to mind– but did you know this South American nation is home to a 1,000-year old indigenous city?

The Quilmes Ruins are all that remain of a stone-walled city created by the Quilmes people. In its heyday this metropolis housed an estimated 5,000 people, before the Spanish forced the Quilmes to relocate to a reservation outside of Buenos Aires.

The Quilmes Ruins are refreshingly free of crowds; during our visit, there were only two other tourists at the site. This important archaeological site is located in Tucuman province in northwest Argentina, just off the paved highway between Cafayate and San Miguel de Tucumán. The ruins are easily accessible by car rental.

>> Recommended reading: Argentine road trip: The best of Tucuman, Salta and Jujuy

#6) Jerash, Jordan

Petra may be the most famous ancient city in Jordan (see #3 below) but Jerash offers a taste of ancient Rome in the Middle East. Conquered by Rome in the 1st century AD, the city of Gerasa thrived until it was damaged by an earthquake in 747 AD.

Located in northern Jordan, near the Syrian border, this ancient city is surrounded by a modern-date metropolis that has been continuously occupied for 6,500 years. The ruins are a 40-minute car or tour bus ride from the capital of Amman.

Among the breathtaking ruins are the Arch of Hadrian, built in 129 AD to celebrate the emperor’s visit; the hippodrome, where chariot races are still held today for tourists; and the forum, a circle of Roman columns where we saw a group of Jordanian school girls spontaneously burst into song.

The sheer number and size of the Jerash ruins are impressive and it’s hard to imagine that this massive city of light stone was hidden under sand until just 70 years ago. If you are visiting Jordan, make sure to take a half day to visit Jerash– you won’t regret it!

>> Recommended reading: A warm welcome in the ancient city of Jerash

#5) Machu Picchu, Peru

If you love to travel you’ve probably heard of Machu Picchu. This 15th-century Inca site has been Peru’s leading tourist attraction for about 100 years, since an American historian spread the world about this “lost city.”

Considered by some to be a sacred religious site, Machu Picchu is a series of stone-walled dwellings built at an elevation of nearly 8,000 feet. Needless to say, the views from this UNESCO World Heritage site are amazing!

Machu Picchu was never ‘discovered’ by the Spanish conquistadors and is remarkably well preserved, thanks in part to reconstruction efforts. For the ultimate photo op, arrive at Machu Picchu early and wait in line for tickets to hike up Huayna Picchu mountain. It’s a steep climb but offers 360′ views of the historical site and surrounding valley.

Machu Picchu can be reached via a 4-day day guided hike on the Inca Trail (prior reservations required), or by walking or taking a bus from the nearby town of Aguas Calientes. The nearest major city is Cuzco, which is connected to Lima by plane, train and bus routes.

>> Recommended reading: Embracing Cliche in Machu Picchu (amazing photos from the Over Yonderlust blog)

#4) Ciudad Perdida, Colombia

You don’t have to visit Machu Picchu to see the ruins of an ancient metropolis in South America. A 5-day hike through the Colombian jungle to Ciudad Perdida is less crowded, less expensive and just as spiritual as a trip to Machu Picchu.

Hidden away in a dense jungle and only accessible by foot, Ciudad Perdida was reportedly built by the Tairona people in 800 AD, which would make it older than Machu Picchu. The ruins of its stone dwellings, stairs and terraces were ‘discovered’ in 1972 by local treasure hunters and, in the past few years, have attracted adventurous travelers.

Ciudad Perdida can only be reached by guided trek, which can be booked in neighboring Santa Marta or Taganga. Groups are kept small and are led by locals who grew up in the mountains and can shed light on the area’s history and culture. The trail to the lost city cuts through lands still inhabited by indigenous people; they wear traditional dress (white cotton tunics) and maintain thatched huts near the trail.

Hiking to the lost city is not technically difficult (there is no rock climbing, for example) but the high humidity, heat, river crossings and muddy trails combined with day-long hikes can be exhausting. Make sure you have a good fitness level before setting out.

>> Recommended reading: Trekking to Ciudad Perdida, Colombia’s Lost City

#3) Petra, Jordan

For the true Indiana Jones experience you have to visit Petra. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was founded in the 6th century BC by an Arab people called the Nabataeans and is Jordan’s most popular tourist attraction. A desert city carved into red rocks, Petra was an important stop on the silk and spice trading route stretching from Asia to Europe.

You’ll realize what a magical place this is when you walk through a narrow gorge at Petra’s entrance and emerge in front of the famed Treasury building. Movie fans will recognize it from the 1989 film Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

However, the Treasury is just one of many awe-inspiring structures in Petra; it’s hard to describe the massive scale of the ruins until you visit. The largest monument, the Monastery, was built in the 1st century BC and can only be reached by a brief but steep uphill hike. It’s well worth the effort.

Petra is a 2-3 hour drive from the capital of Amman and can be reached by tour van or bus.

>> Recommended reading: Escaping the crowds in Petra (a firsthand account from travel writer Sherry Ott)

#2) Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Step into the hiking boots of action star Angelina Jolie when you visit Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, the setting of her 2001 film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.

Angkor Wat dates from the 12th century and is considered one of Southeast Asia’s most important historical sites, in addition to being a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Cambodia’s top tourism attraction. This complex of ancient temples was built during the Khmer Empire and was originally Hindu and later Buddhist.

You’ll need at least two days to explore the ruins, which feature fascinating sculptures of mythical features ranging in size from minute to massive. Arguably the best photo-ops are at the Ta Prohm ruins, where stone buildings have merged with winding tree trunks to create a surreal landscape.

Angkor Wat is a quick drive from the bustling city of Siem Reap in northwestern Cambodia. Hiring a tuk-tuk driver in Siem Reap for the day is a comfortable way to see the complex, which is too large to get around on foot. Bike rentals are also available.

>> Recommended reading: Pushbike and Angkor Wat (a firsthand account of touring the ruins by bike from blogger Runaway Juno)

#1) The Giza Pyramids, Egypt

The name “Giza” might not ring any bells but you’ve probably seen photos of its most impressive monuments: the Sphinx and the Great Pyramid. One of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Giza Pyramid was built around 2560 BC and by the 1st century BC was luring tourists from ancient Greece.

The site is essentially an ancient cemetery; its three giant pyramids serve as a resting place for the Old Kingdom pharaohs Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. At night, the Light and Sound show bathes the ruins in neon colors and explains the history of ancient Egypt.

Giza is a short drive from downtown Cairo and can be reached by taxi, public bus or tour bus.

>> Recommended reading: Is it safe to visit Egypt? Q&A with a travel expert

What’s your favorite ancient ruin?

Share your picks by leaving a comment below! If you are reading this post via email or RSS feed, make sure to click on Downtowntraveler.com to leave a comment.

Want to see thought-provoking, funny and surprising street art? Head to Montreal.

You can’t walk more than a block or two in this bustling Canadian city without coming across a provocative work of art. During a weekend getaway to Montreal this fall, the street murals made me stop in my tracks, stare and start snapping photos. Repeatedly. I found myself sprinting down alleys to see how a street mural would end!

Since street art doesn’t come with handy descriptions like you find at museums, I was left wondering what many of these works meant.

Fortunately, Montreal artist Reuben Peter-Finlay has agreed to share his knowledge of the street art scene with Downtown Traveler readers. Read on for his explanations of Montreal street art and don’t forget to check out Reuben’s blog to learn more about his work.

Street artist in action

I met Reuben by chance when he was painting a tribute to French-Canadian activists Gérald Godin and Pauline Julien in Montreal’s Plateau neighborhood. Similar to New York City’s East Village, the Plateau is known for its high concentration of artists as well as its funky vintage boutiques and cafes.

Some of the reasons I love street art are that it is free, available to the public, and allows you to get up close to the artist (assuming he or she isn’t posting the work by cover of night, which is often the case). Meeting Reuben was one of the highlights of my Montreal trip and I am excited to share his local knowledge with our readers!

Raccoon invasion

The raccoon has a double meaning, according to Reuben:

“The giant raccoons are a K6A crew production from last year’s Under Pressure Graffiti Convention, which has been held every year in August since, like, 1995. K6A has some of the best graffers and MCs in town, and the raccoon is kinda their mascot. In their own words, a raccoon is someone who’s always racking (stealing, misappropriating shit, or just plain acting stingy). A raccoon bums rides but never pays for gas, puffs on everyone’s joints but doesn’t buy weed, comes up with strategies to dodge cover charges at parties, etc.”

Beautiful monsters

Montreal attracts artists from around the world. As Reuben explains,

“This one was done by Gola, a young Italian artist who was visiting for a few days last year. Nice guy, very cheery and sociable, even with limited knowledge of French or English. [There]‘s an amazing wall he painted on a school in Palestine, as featured by Wooster Collective.”

Visit Gola’s website to see his international works of public art, including the Palestinian mural that Reuben mentions.

Mexican horror movie

My street-art hunt through the streets of Montreal actually uncovered one of Reuben’s murals!

“Ha, I worked on this wall with a bunch of other guys (and one girl) from around here in 2009. We brainstormed over a couple pints and decided that we wanted to do a Mexican horror movie poster with chickens. I spray-painted the screaming leper-woman with the two chicken-heads in the lower left-hand corner and was supposed to do more but that weekend my girlfriend told me she was pregnant so we spent all Saturday in a hospital waiting to find out what we were supposed to do with the iud (they left it in – we have a son now), so when I finally got to painting everybody else had already sketched their outlines and claimed their space and I didn’t really feel like doing it anymore but I went through the motions anyways and landed it, sort of.”

As Reuben has pointed out to me, it’s always a good idea to photograph the entire work of street art in addition to close-up scenes. For more images of this mural, click here.

Disney goes street

I was surprised to see the smiling face of a familiar cartoon mouse while passing through Le Plateau-Mont Royal. Reuben wasn’t able to provide much background on this one– due to my hyper-focused camera work– but if any readers have knowledge of this mural, please leave a comment below!

“Trife Life is another well-established graffiti crew in Montreal, but I’m not too sure who did these mice. I recognize Dfek and possibly Shok’s lettering. You need to stop taking partial pictures of graffiti productions Leslie.”

Crack-fueled art

A creepy portrait of a pot-bellied, topless women does not earn raves from Reuben:

“This is some ugly Gay Village crackhead street-art. Kinda reminds me of that Nigerian dude who painted the Virgin Mary with elephant dung.”

Bagel run turns into art find

The edge of this street portrait caught my eye while stopping at one of Montreal’s famous bagel stores. As Reuben explains, it was created by a couple of well-known artists:

“Ok, the centre character is by Rage aka Howie Dewitt, and the letters to the right are by Cabin. That sliver of a wall to the left is by Peru.”

Reuben pointed me to an image of the full mural on FiveEight Art‘s Flickr stream:

Ronald McDonald-turned-vampire

This anti-McDonald’s stencil art popped up a few times during my Montreal getaway. It shows Ronald McDonald with vampire fangs and a fascist-looking emblem.

It turns out Reuben is not a fan of McDonald’s bashing since he has a rather personal connection to the Golden Arches. He writes,

“[The message behind this is] ‘McDonald’s is evil – they clear rainforest to raise their cattle!’ Shut the fuck up. McDonald’s helped me pay my way through college.”

Check out the commercial below– you might recognize a certain artist! [Hint: Look for the dancing guy in the video].

***

What do you think of Montreal’s street art scene?

Share your opinion by leaving a comment below! If you are reading this post via email or RSS feed, make sure to click on Downtowntraveler.com to leave a comment.

Today’s guest writer is Tracy Zhang, a 21-year-old travel photographer based in Vancouver, Canada.

When Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights opened at the theater near my house, the 14 year-old me begged my mother to go watch it with my friends. She refused.

Swept away by the passion between Katey and Javier and fueled by a sense of teenage rebellion, when I finally did watch the film on TV a year later I was determined to visit the Cuban capital one day.

Seven years later, I stepped off a plane in Cuba, anxious for the colonial architecture, opulent history, and exotic culture that the island had to offer. But when my taxi pulled up in front of the National Capitol building in Havana, I knew I had encountered something else altogether.

The affluent days of colonial power had long passed and the country’s depth of poverty oozed through the crumbling walls. Frequently, locals walked by me, whispering as they passed to ask if I was interested in buying cigars or rum. Once, a man asked me if I could give him soap from my hotel.

But despite the poverty, I felt a sense of energy – a liveliness long suppressed by the Cuban government. More than anything, I felt a happiness and joy. As I roamed the streets of Havana, music, dancing, and laughter filled the streets. Children played in the park after school; taxis drove by with the melodic sway of Caribbean music echoing out the window.

Eventually I did find the culture, history, and architecture that I was looking for. But it was this contrast of poverty and liveliness – the tug and pull between living through meager financial means and embracing life with opulent joy- that stood out the most in my mind.

The buildings may be in dire need of a paint job but the clothes, hung over balconies everywhere in Cuba, add a splash of color to Havana.

A man on a motorcycle stops in front of me in a narrow alley. A large Cuban flag hangs in the background, reminding me of the patriotic slogans I had seen painted on the side of the buildings.

Havana’s Chinatown is one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in Latin American. More than 150,000 Chinese people immigrated to the island as contract workers in the 1850s. However, most of them fled to the United States when the country’s political situation changed in 1959. As I walked around the area, I was the only person of visible Chinese descent.

A work yard filled with trains is open for tourists. The National Capitol can be seen in the background.

A girl hangs laundry out of an old building whose walls and doors have long faded in color. It’s not difficult to imagine what the building might have looked like in its former glory days.

A group of girls in uniform walks home after school.

Although this building suffered a roof fire, residents still manage to live inside the structure.

The National Capitol, named and modeled after the United States Capitol in Washington, was built in 1929. It is one of the few buildings in Havana that is not completely worn out and abandoned.

In Cathedral Square, a Roman Catholic Cathedral is one of the main attractions of Havana.

Two girls walk home carrying their Hannah Montana backpacks. Although the Cuba-US embargo is still in effect, American goods still find their way into the lives of Cubans, mainly through presents sent from relatives living in Florida.

A grandfather holds a child as he converses with a neighbor from his balcony.

The Artisans’ Market in Cuba is another popular tourist attraction in Havana. Here, the paintings capture Cuba’s vibrant past. The deep colors and free-form strokes convey a richness of Cuban life, beyond money and possession.

An old bus is parked on the side of the street. The public transportation system is a major problem in Cuba – buses are always full and never on time. Locals often resort to hitchhiking instead.

As I drove away from the city, I stopped to take one final look at the Havana. From the distance, the country’s economic situation is hidden beyond the beautiful facades of city’s skyline.

About the Writer

Guest writer Tracy Zhang

Tracy Zhang is an adventurous travel photographer who loves to capture the natural beauty of her destinations.

At age 21, Tracy has already lived on three continents and traveled to 25 countries, but she still finds time to relax in her quiet suburban home in Vancouver, British Columbia.

To see the world through Tracy’s lens, make sure to check out her blog, Just In Time Travels. You can also follow her adventures on Twitter at @tracyzhangphoto.

Have you been to Cuba?

Share your experience by leaving a comment below! If you are reading this via email or RSS feed, click on Downtowntraveler.com to leave a comment.

When you think of Argentina, a few classic scenes probably come to mind: tango dancing in Buenos Aires, marveling at the waterfalls in Iguazu or trekking in Patagonia.

If you want to get off the tourist trail, head to the rural northwest. The provinces of Salta, Tucuman and Jujuy are far less touristy and more affordable than the rest of Argentina and there are enough attractions to fill a one, two or even three week visit. From salt flats to vineyards, you won’t be wanting for activities.

We spent two weeks road-tripping through the Argentine northwest; scroll down for our 7 favorite attractions in this diverse region. Accessible by overnight bus from Buenos Aires and located near the Chilean border, Salta, Tucuman and Jujuy should be mandatory stops on any Argentine vacation.

>> If you’ve visited northwest Argentina, please share your tips by leaving a comment below!

1) Argentina’s up-and-coming wine destination – Cafayate

We enjoyed visiting Mendoza, known as Argentina’s “wine country,” but for a less commercial experience you should visit the more northerly town of Cafayate.

Cafayate has just as many nice wineries but far fewer tourists. In addition, the wine tours we came across were for the most part free, and more well-organized than the sometimes pricey Mendoza tours.

And if you have a sweet tooth, try out the unique wine ice cream! They have both white- and red-wine ice cream to choose from.

2) The cradle of Argentine Independence – Tucuman

The city of San Miguel de Tucumán– and the surrounding hillside– is a great place to spend a day or two.

This bustling city is Argentina’s fifth largest and boasts fine architecture like the Casa Historica, where Argentine independence was declared. Make sure to stop by at night, when the entire structure is illuminated.

Tucuman’s outskirts abound with day trip possibilities. Just a short drive from the city center you’ll find lush green mountains and short hikes to streams and ponds.

Monuments dot the landscape and make for excellent photo ops.

Also along the road are a variety of (very random) landmarks you can stop and check out.

3) Relaxation and stunning views in Tafi del Valle

Located about 65 miles from the city of Tucuman, this sleepy town is a world away from the urban bustle. Getting to Tafi del Valle is half of the fun; you’ll spot amazing scenery from the winding roads leading into town.

Tafi de Valle has an arid climate, similar to what you might find in the US states of Arizona or Utah.

Unlike the lush, green hills around Tucuman, Tafi del Valle resembles a desert. The dusty tan landscape is interrupted by several large inland lakes scattered between the mountains.

There are several easy hikes that originate in town, are free, and offer stunning views.

When entering Tafi Del Valle, you’ll need to get used to seeing giant statues of Jesus on the cross– they are everywhere in northwestern Argentina! Tafi del Valle is actually a popular Holy Week destination known for its Passion of the Christ reenactment.

4) The Quilmes ruins

Ruins are all that remain of a massive city created by the indigenous Quilmes tribe. This series of stone dwellings was built after the Quilmes were relocated by the Spanish to Tucuman province in the 17th century.

Today the remains consist of the frames of several hundred structures built up and along the hillside. We spent a few hours exploring the ruins, which combine an easy, uphill hike with the excitement of an archeological site.

When we visited there were no fenced-off areas, security guards or warning signs, although we tried to be respectful of the site. There are plenty of photo ups here, from crumbling walls to llamas that roam the grounds.

5) The Martian landscape of Salta

Driving north from Tucuman province, the landscape changes again near the large northern city of Salta. Red sandstone formations and a glistening river cut through the valley.

This was among the most spectacular scenery we’ve seen in South America and it reminded us of the Australian Outback.

You don’t have too leave your car to take in this scenery, since it sits right off the highway connecting Tucuman and Salta. We pulled over several times to snap photos and to explore lookout points and canyons along the way.

A note of caution: be careful when driving within the city of Salta, which has the most confusing (and dangerous) intersections I’ve seen.  Nobody seems to have the right of way, which results in complete chaos as aggressive drivers force their way through. (Check out my previous post on driving overseas for tips).

6) The seven-colored mountain – Purmamarca

Jujuy province is at the furthest northwest in Argentina and more closely resembles its neighbors, Chile and Bolivia, than Buenos Aires. This region is home to the famous Seven-Colored Mountain (“Cerro de los Siete Colores”).

Many of the mountains in northwestern Argentina have striking hues, but only this one has seven distinct colors that run in layers from the base to the tip.

Yet another sleepy town, Purmamarca has a surprisingly developed tourism industry including family-run hostels and restaurants. However, lack of signage still makes it a bit confusing to get around town. The first time we passed through we could not find the famous seven-colored mountain!

Budget travelers can hike around the mountains for free; many trails start near the city center. As in much of the Argentine northwest, the Purmamarca trails are refreshingly free of crowds and offer amazing views.

7) Massive salt flats in Jujuy

Right before the major border crossing into Chile, near the city of Jujuy, is a vast white expanse made entirely of salt.

These salt flats, known as Salinas Grandes, are accessible via a paved highway and should be a mandatory stop on any northwest Argentina road trip.

It’s hard to believe this vast, white plateau located about 13,000 feet above sea level is made of salt and not snow. We spent about an hour touching, crunching, licking and photographing the salt formations.

The salt forms a pattern of six-sided hexagons with raised edges. Occasionally the flats are interrupted by crystal-blue pools of water which are, predictably, salty.

It’s not necessary to book an excursion to see the Salinas Grandes salt flats; in fact, they couldn’t be easier to visit on your own. You only need a car and a camera to document the surreal landscape.

Have you visited northern Argentina?

Share your travel tips with other readers by leaving a comment below! If you are reading this post via email or RSS feed, make sure to click on DowntownTraveler.com to leave your comment.

Record high temperatures bathed New York City in sunshine last week, causing flowers to bloom across the five boroughs. Every patch of green in Manhattan was crammed with tulips and pansies in vibrant colors.

I headed to the West Village with camera in hand to document the first signs of spring.

It was the perfect opportunity to test out my new micro four thirds camera, a Panasonic Lumix GF2 that I bought after reading a glowing review on A Little Adrift.

I was reluctant to abandon my Canon G11 camera, which had captured my travel adventures  from Wyoming to Egypt, but the slow shutter speed and blurry images convinced me it was time for an upgrade.

Flowers looked unbelievably sharp with the Lumix GF2′s dedicated “flowers” setting, but I found it hard to shift the focus to objects in the foreground. The auto setting did not wow me, but the shutter speed was incredibly quick for a small camera.

I am still experimenting with my new camera, but was pretty satisfied with my first shots. What do you think– is the Panasonic Lumix camera a keeper?

How did you celebrate the start of spring?