Unanchor Adventure Travel Blog

Top 12 Places to Explore Like a Local in 2016

Cat — Fri, 15 Jan 2016 21:48:49 GMT

Happy New Year! Travel more is a top New Year's resolution people make each year. If travel is one of your resolutions this year, we're here to help you make it come true!

Instead of creating our own list of the best places to visit in 2016, we decided to curate the wisdom for you from many of the other lists already out there on the interwebs.

Unanchor will help you save time on planning an itinerary of what to do, see (& not see), when, and where so you can get inspired and start exploring on your own right now with knowledge from a local.

Here are your 12 best places to travel to in 2016:

1. Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei Highlights in 72 Hours *NEW*

2. Georgia

Tbilisi Weekend Highlights

3. Ecuador

Cuenca Highlights in 3 Days

4. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin Local's Highlights in 3 Days

5. Iceland

Iceland Road Trip Highlights in 4 Days *NEW*

6. Hawaii, USA

Big Island Top 10 Highlights in 3 Days // Oahu Local's Highlights in 3 Days // Oahu on a Budget Highlights in 4 Days

7. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona Highlights in 3 Days // Barcelona Biking Highlights in 3 Days // FC Barcelona in 1 Day

8. Sydney, Australia

Sydney Highlights in 3 Days *BEST SELLER* // Sydney Weekend Highlights

9. New York City, USA

NYC Walking Highlights in 2 Days // NYC 5 Boroughs Local's Highlights in 6 Days // NYC Lower East Side Highlights in 1 Day // NYC Lower Manhattan Highlights in 1 Day // NYC Hudson River Highlights in 1 Day // NYC Jewish Highlights in 2 Days // NYC Brooklyn Foodie Highlights in 2 Days // NYC Asian Food Highlights in 3 Days // NYC Hidden Bars Highlights in 2 Days

10. Washington, D.C., USA

Washington, D.C. Highlights in 4 Days // Washington, D.C. Local's Highlights in 3 Days

11. U.S. Virgin Islands

St. Croix Highlights in 2 Days

12. Mexico

Mexico City Highlights in 3 Days // Mexico City Highlights in 7 Days // Ciudad de México Reflejos en 7 Días // Yucatan Highlights in 5 Days *BEST SELLER*

There are 2 bonus locations we wanted to share with you that appeared the most on the best places to visit lists but we do not have an Unanchor itinerary for (yet):

Bonus #1: St. Helena - a volcanic island in the South Atlantic roughly halfway between South America and Africa.

Bonus #2: Cuba - specifically Viñales, a UNESCO World Heritage Site a couple hours west of Havana.

If you want more travel inspiration, here are the lists of top travel destinations for 2016 we used to curate our list for you:

Travel & Leisure: Best Places to Travel in 2016
National Geographic: Best Trips 2016
New York Times: 52 Places to Go in 2016
Lonely Planet: Best in Travel 2016
U.S. News & World Report: World's Best Places to Visit in 2015-16
Forbes: The 14 Coolest Places To Visit In 2016
CNN: Where to go in 2016: Top 16 up-and-coming destinations
Frommer's: Best Places to Go List for 2016
Fodor's: Go List 2016
Viator: 50 Amazing Places to Go in 2016

New season, new travel adventures! – FREE Travel Guide Sale Thursday & Friday Only!

Cat — Thu, 03 Sep 2015 00:14:17 GMT

Pack your suitcases—it’s time for Unanchor’s 2-Day Sale! This Thursday (9/3) and Friday (9/4) only, we’re giving away 200+ Unanchor Amazon travel guides (from Amman to Zagreb) for FREE.

What is an Unanchor travel guide itinerary?

Our travel guide itineraries are written by locals and experienced travelers around the world who want to share the very best of their favorite destinations. Directions, recommended eateries, budget planning, and photos are all included in these thorough guides.

With our itineraries you can:

Avoid (or seek out) tourist traps
Get access to local insights and tips
Find guides that fit your timeline
Quickly estimate a budget
Leave the hassle of research to us

This means less time spent planning behind a screen, and more time getting out there and experiencing it all for yourself!

Please Help Us & Leave a Review

We have a small favor to ask of you. These guides are largely labors of love, but it takes a lot of time and effort to write, create, and update them as well. Normally, they cost anywhere from $3-10 each, but today and tomorrow they’re FREE!

If you download a guide, could you leave us a review directly on Amazon. Reviews are tremendously helpful to the writers and to us, as they help us to continuously improve each guide. Thanks!

Get Your Guides FREE on Amazon

Starting right now and through midnight Pacific Time on Friday (September 4th) you can download all of our Kindle travel guide itineraries for FREE! Head on over to Amazon and download your guides now. Don’t forget to share & tweet this with your friends! Turn your solo trip into a romantic rendezvous or a gregarious group vacation!

United States

Canada, Caribbean, & Central America

South America

Europe

Africa & Middle East

Asia

South Pacific

Itinerary Writer Spotlight: Talia Friedman - NYC Hidden Bars

Cat — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 00:06:51 GMT

In our "Itinerary Writer Spotlight" series, we interview our newest Unanchor writers and find out more about their city. Enjoy!

1. Who are you? Where are you from? What do you do?

I have always been a nomad. I was born in Johannesburg, South Africa. My parents moved us to Canada when I was nine. I lived in four different Canadian cities, and spent a year back in South Africa, in Cape Town, before moving to New York City. In my day job I am a doctor, a radiologist. I've since left Manhattan to live the beach life in Bondi, Australia, but New York will always have a special place in my heart.

I'm a big traveler; I've been to 65 countries on every continent but Antarctica. My preferred travel method is to go alone, with a backpack, and no plan beyond a place to stay the first night. No I am not afraid, there is nothing to be afraid of, and it is the most amazing feeling of freedom.

2. What are the top 3 things to do/see in NYC?

The Highline Park - This abandoned raised railway line has been turned into a park with permanent greenery and water features, and there are revolving art installations. You also get amazing views of the city and skyline.

Sleep No More - This immersive theater piece is a mix of Macbeth and Alfred Hitchcock. It is something between a play, a dance performance, and a haunted house. You have never experienced anything like it.

The unique neighborhoods - Try out the bohemian East Village, my guide has step-by-step instructions taking you to amazing quirky restaurants and bars. Or if you want the rich and trendy Manhattan try the Meatpacking District for boutique shops, the Highline Park, sexy clubs, and high-end restaurants.

3. What are the top 3 tourist traps to avoid in NYC?

Times Square - I honestly can't understand what the appeal of this place is. The square is surrounded by generic stores and restaurants that you can find anywhere in the USA. There are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of tourists jammed in with endless touts who are looking to separate visitors from their cash. I think the only unique thing about Times Square is that I have never seen so many tourists in one place. New Yorkers avoid Times Square at all costs.

Midtown - This district is for tourists and businessman. It’s understandable that visitors want to see iconic sites such as the MoMa, but there is no need to linger here in the evening. Make sure you explore other areas to see what it is that makes New York truly unique.

5th Avenue - The flagship Tiffany & Co store, Harry Winston, and FAO Schwartz are probably worth a quick stop, but for the most part shopping elsewhere is much better. 5th Avenue is mostly huge chain stores. Try the boutiques of SoHo and the Meatpacking district for a more unique selection. The big exception to this rule is Christmas time. In December, 5th Avenue is a must see, the window decorations are stunning. Broadway set designers usually do them; Bergdorf Goodman in particular has consistently impressive displays.

The entrance to Death and Company

4. What's your favorite restaurant in NYC and what's good there?

As you can imagine, New York is filled with restaurants I love. In the spirit of my guide, I will choose La Esquina. I used to think I didn't like Mexican food, La Esquina changed my mind.

There are three sections, the take-away taco stand and casual cafe serve up delicious Mexican food, but for a real treat make a dinner reservation for the Brasserie. It is hidden in a secret basement below the taco stand. The bouncer will usher you through an unmarked door, through the kitchens and into a darkly romantic space that has a Tarantino-esque, From Dusk to Dawn feel. There are candles glowing in iron candelabras, endless bottles of alcohol, many in skulls, and lots of beautiful people.

I like it spicy, so my favorite drink is the Pepino Diablo (tanteo jalapeño infused blanco tequila, cucumber puree, citrus, and agave nectar). It’s hard to go wrong with the food, my personal favorites include the Elotes Callejeros (grilled Mexican street corn), Bistec Taco (beef taco), and Michelle’s Ceviche (lime marinated market fish with habañero peppers, cilantro, red onion, apples, avocado, and plantain chips.

5. What made you fall in love with NYC?

New York is a city of endless possibility. Whatever your interests are, New York will have it. There is always something new, exciting, and interesting going on. It’s impossible to be bored.

6. Where else can we find your work/writing?

I have a website: Travelling Talia, if you click on articles or go to the blog, it will take you to the page where I list all my published works with links.

Starting next month I will become a contributor at The Localist.

You can also follow me on Instagram: @travellingtalia

Visiting New York City? Make sure to check out Talia's Hidden Bars of New York City's East Village & Lower East Side: A 2-Evening Itinerary.

Beautiful Drinks, Brilliant Scenery: Exploring Wine, Wineries and Food in Fantastic France

Cat — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 15:16:42 GMT

Tales of its idyllic way of life have reached legendary proportions, and for many lucky travelers it’s not just a far-off dream, it’s an awe-inspiring reality. Rural France’s sparse and scattered population is, surprisingly, not its biggest draw. Nor does its architectural or pastoral beauty account entirely for its pull, either. Much of its attraction undoubtedly lies in the variety, abundance and sublime delights of its regional food and wine.

Many regions stand out for these, as well as for their landscape, but three worth considering as a taster are the Loire Valley, Champagne and the Languedoc.

The Loire Valley

Just 35 minutes from Paris by fast train, the Loire is not only home to the best French sauvignon blanc whites, it’s also known as the “garden of France”, producing wonderful apricots, pears, greengages and French beans. Other local delights include goats’ cheese such as Crottin de Chavignol, Selles sur Cher and Sainte-Maure, as well as freshwater fish including pike, bream and perch. Best of all, it has more than twenty wine appellations to sample. Ease into your French wine itinerary with Sancere and visit Domaine Martin by the village of Chavignol, Domaine Paul Cherrier at Chadoux, and if you have time, some of the vineyards in the countryside of neighboring appellation Menetou-Salon.

Champagne

By train from Paris, Champagne is within easy reach, too. Situated an hour from the French capital, Champagne’s fine cuisine is often overshadowed by its wine-producing reputation, but local pork, lamb and game feature heavily. The flat countryside, undulating hills, chalky soil and climate make it ideal for cultivating Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay grapes, the traditional blend for champagnes. And although a few of the more famous champagne houses charge for visits, the vast majority of the smaller and more picturesque wineries don’t.

The Languedoc

The often over-looked southern region of Languedoc-Roussillon boasts a history of cuisine and viticulture. Head out of Montpellier through French-Roman villages towards Clermont L’Herault and introduce some hearty southern reds into the mix. As in the Loire, where its wine and cuisine seem to meet like lovers in the night in a deliciously planned union, the same is true here. Bordering the Mediterranean to the east and Spain to the south, the deep but delicate reds of the Languedoc complement its most famous local dish, cassoulet — a casserole of haricot beans, goose preserve, mutton, pork or sausages — perfectly. And its whites rise to meet the high standards of the traditional seafood stews common in coastal areas. The increasingly popular Mas de Daumas Gassac, re-established in the ‘70’s and blessed with arguably the best soil in the area, is a good place to start your vineyard tours, followed by a tasting at the Domaine Virgil Joly. And from there, the Languedoc’s your oyster.

Getting there, whether by land, sea or air, has never been easier, and there’s a vast array of two, three or four-day tours you can embark on to sample the country’s many gastronomic delights. However, if you can’t get to the country itself to sample the fine French wine, you can try Tesco online and savour the taste of France in a glass from there.

[Guest Author Bio: Sarah Brown is a blogger who loves to go to different places and experience the culture as well as the sights/foods that they offer. An adventure lover who simply loves the outdoors and makes it a point to try something new each time she visits a particular destination.]

Image by Megan Lawrie Cole, used under Creative Commons license

For more adventures in France, be sure to check out Unanchor's travel guide itineraries!

Itinerary Writer Spotlight: Chandi Wyant - Doha, Qatar

Cat — Mon, 25 May 2015 03:02:33 GMT

In our "Itinerary Writer Spotlight" series, we interview our newest Unanchor writers and find out more about their city. Enjoy!

1. Who are you? Where are you from? What do you do?

I'm from California and I'm currently teaching (history) at a college in Qatar. In my early twenties I spent a few years traveling around the world, and I've lived in 6 countries outside the U.S. While some of the travel and the living abroad has been with someone else, most of my travels and expat experiences have been solo. So, in a nutshell, I'd call myself an open-minded and curious solo traveler, a historian, and a writer.

2. What are the top 3 things to do/see in Doha?

Any activity on the Persian Gulf. The water is surprisingly clean and it's almost always flat and warm.

Wandering around Souq Waqif taking photos, hanging out at an outdoor cafe, and people watching.

My favorite event in Doha is the Dhow Festival at Katara in November.

3. What are the top 3 tourist traps to avoid in Doha?

Doha is such a new city, and is only starting to have actual tourism so I don't think the term "tourist trap" works for Doha right now. There are lots of non-Qataris in Doha, but very few of them are tourists. The expats are brought in to do the things that Qataris are not yet trained to do. Doha has turned into a modern city only recently. The cityscape of Doha is almost unrecognizable from what it was ten years ago. Tourism is starting and it's a very interesting time to visit!

The towers of West Bay Doha seen from the Islamic Museum Park

4. What's your favorite restaurant in Doha and what's good there?

I love dining almost anywhere at Souq Waqif at an outdoor table because of atmosphere of the Souq. In a country where historical sites are few, this souq provides a sense of the past and of authenticity. At night it is always lively and there's always something to watch -- costumed people on stilts, or some live music, and despite the liveliness it's very relaxed and safe.

5. What made you fall in love with Doha?

I came to Doha to have a job in my field, not because it was my first choice of a place in the world to live. What is good about Doha is not as immediately obvious as it is in other cities where I've been an expat like Florence. But I pushed myself to find things to appreciate about Doha. All the things I've uncovered in three years here that I enjoy the most are included in the itinerary. Also, I appreciate that Doha is safe. People often leave their cars unlocked. I always leave my belongings on beaches with confidence when I do my swim workouts in the sea. As a woman alone, I take precautions as I would anywhere in the world regarding personal safety, but I'm pleased to say that the vibe I get in Doha has almost always been one of politeness and respect.

6. Where else can we find your work/writing?

Please visit me on my website or on my Facebook page:

Visiting Doha? Make sure to check out Chandi's Doha Surf and Turf: A two-day itinerary.

Itinerary Writer Spotlight: Ebru Erdem-Akcay - Istanbul, Turkey

Cat — Mon, 18 May 2015 03:36:28 GMT

In our "Itinerary Writer Spotlight" series, we interview our newest Unanchor writers and find out more about their city. Enjoy!

1. Who are you? Where are you from? What do you do?

I am Ebru Erdem-Akçay and I am a researcher. I am originally from Turkey, but I live in the US. I lived in California for a long time; I am currently living in Philadelphia with my husband, our daughter, and our cat Nazlı Cappuccino.

2. What are the top 3 things to do/see in Istanbul?

Enjoy drinks by the Bosphorus: The US has beautiful oceanside towns on both coasts but I found it unbelievable that you can't really sit around and enjoy a coffee/tea watching the scenery. Only a few very pricy and very touristy restaurants allow enjoying the scenery. In Istanbul, there are little neighborhoods like Ortaköy, Bebek, or Beylerbeyi. They are lined along both the Asian and the European sides of the Bosphorus and they all have many establishments where you can enjoy the scenery. They vary in style and offerings, there is an option for all budgets.

Walking along Istiklal St. in Beyoğlu: Istanbulites from all walks of life pass through Taksim and most of them walk up and down Istiklal St. (or take the tram). Taksim is the heart of the city and Istiklal St. is the main artery. This street just busts with life and it offers all the diversity of the city. I love people-gazing as I walk along the street, but I keep reminding myself to look up and observe the facets of the old buildings, remnants from a glorious era. I love looking through the unusual objects sold in the stores in the arcades. The walk always has a pleasant end because there are great restaurants, cafes, movie theaters, meyhanes, clubs, galleries, and antique stores nearby.

Visit Sultanahmet: This is a touristy thing to do but it is a must. Standing between the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia when it is time for the call to prayer at noon is a transcendental experience, even if you are not religious. Two beautiful, centuries-old buildings representing two of world's major religions, the call from at least half a dozen different imams from different mosques echoing each other, and the knowledge that you are standing in an arena once walked by Byzantine emperors and Ottoman sultans that ruled the world is simply overwhelming.

3. What are the top 3 tourist traps to avoid in Istanbul?

Rugs and carpets: You will be pestered by men trying to get them into their shop to sell you rugs and carpets. You may indeed be interested in buying one. I wouldn't. I don't see any possibility that you will get a good deal. If you are an expert on rugs/carpets, you know your pricing, and you are a good haggler - go for it. Otherwise, stay away!

Suspect charges in your restaurant bill: This is not a "trap" for tourists only, it also preys on locals who enjoy too much rakı! Some restaurants put extra charges into your bill, so you should inspect it to make sure it is in order. They may have included a "service charge," in which case you shouldn't pay tips. The "cover/kuver" charge is normal for dining, it covers the cost of bottled water and bread. However, some restaurants inflate (şişirmek) this charge exorbitantly, assuming that the alcohol infused minds won't pay attention. If you think the amount of this charge is unreasonable, object it.

Hostel night life: There are many hostels in the Sultanahmet area and many backpackers stay at them. This is totally fine. However, a "side business" has emerged in the vicinity of these hostels: bars/clubs/pubs catering to the hostel visitors. If you have only a few days to spend in Istanbul, break free of the "pub scene;" there's plenty of that back home. There are many options for enjoying a night out; they cater to every taste and budget. Explore them!

Bosphorus Bridge: Connecting East and West

4. What's your favorite restaurant in Istanbul and what's good there?

Sur Ocakbaşı in Fatih Kadınlar Pazarı. My paternal side comes from the southeast, they are the masters of the kebab. Our visit to Sur Ocakbaşı is always a fond memory for us when we are apart. We always get the mixed kabob tray (so we can get a taste of different varieties) and we end with the semolina/ice cream dessert. That said, my favorite food is "simit" and you can find it everywhere!

5. What made you fall in love with Istanbul?

I went to high school in Ankara and moved to Istanbul for college. On my first week, I found myself in Mecidiyeköy, which is a highway intersection, a business district, and a transportation hub rolled into one. It was terrible, I was horrified. "Istanbul is very scary," I thought. Then I took a bus from Mecidiyeköy towards Sarıyer to get to school. The bus moved along jammed main streets and then descended towards the seaside. It continued along the Bosphorus (European side). I was mesmerized, it was so beautiful. The water, the seagulls, the seamansions, the ferries, the fishers. In the years that I spent in the US, the Bosphorus has been the major source of my homesickness.

6. Where else can we find your work/writing?

Most of my writing in English is academic. My non-academic writing (blog etc.) - except this itinerary - is in Turkish.

Visiting Istanbul? Make sure to check out Ebru's 3 Days as an Istanbulite: An Istanbul Itinerary .

Top 12 Photos of Andalusia & Tangier

Cat — Tue, 12 May 2015 03:17:26 GMT

This week at Unanchor our Destination of the Week is Southern Spain and Northern Morocco, or more specifically the region of Spain known as Andalusia and it's super close neighbor of Tangier, Morocco. Here are some of Unanchor's top photos of Seville, Malaga, Mijas, and Tangier.

The Royal Alcázar of Seville, Seville, Spain

Macarena Gate, Seville, Spain

Temple of the Sacred Heart, Málaga, Spain

Artichokes at the Málaga Market, Málaga, Spain

The Alcazaba from the Paseo del Parque, Málaga, Spain

Muelle Uno Harbor, Málaga, Spain

The white village of Mijas nestles on the mountainside, Mijas, Spain

Shrine of the Virgin of the Rock and El Compás Point, Mijas, Spain

The Bullring, Mijas, Spain

The Hotel Continental, Tangier, Morocco

Cape Spartel Lighthouse, Tangier, Morocco

Medina, Tangier, Morocco

Visiting Andalusia, Spain or Morocco? Make sure to check out Unanchor's itineraries:

Two-Day Tour in Sunny Seville, Spain by Aly Coy
Málaga, Spain – 2-Day Tour from the Moors to Picasso by Deborah Cater
Mijas - One Day Tour of an Andalucían White Village by Deborah Cater
One Day in Africa - A Guide to Tangier by Aidan McMahon

Top 14 Photos of Mexico

Cat — Sun, 03 May 2015 21:43:00 GMT

In honor of Cinco de Mayo and the #FriFotos theme last week, here are some of Unanchor's top photos of Mexico from our writers featuring Mexico City, Cancun & the Mayan Riviera.

Tulum, Mayan Riviera

Cuzuma Cenote, Yucatan Peninsula

Alameda Central, Mexico City

Mexican Revolution Monument, Mexico City

Church of Santa Catalina, Mexico City

Gran Hotel de la Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico City

Valladolid Cathedral, Valladolid, Yucatan Peninsula

Bellas Artes Palace, Mexico City

Mexico City Policeman in Charro Outfit on Horseback, Mexico City

Pittaya, Playa del Carmen, Mayan Riviera

Tostadas Coyoacan, Mexico City

Salbutes and Panuchos, Valladolid, Yucatan Peninsula

Fish Meal, Mayan Riviera

Visiting Mexico? Make sure to check out Unanchor's itineraries:

Mexico City 3-Day Highlights Itinerary by Jonas Vanreusel
Everything to see or do in Mexico City - 7-Day Itinerary by Alejandro Nuñez
Todo lo que hay que ver o hacer en la Ciudad de México - Itinerario de 7 Días por Alejandro Nuñez
Cancun and Mayan Riviera 5-Day Itinerary by Ted Campbell

Itinerary Writer Spotlight: Vickie Griggs - Seward, Alaska

Cat — Mon, 27 Apr 2015 03:30:43 GMT

In our "Itinerary Writer Spotlight" series, we interview our newest Unanchor writers and find out more about their city. Enjoy!

1. Who are you? Where are you from? What do you do?

Hi, my name is Vickie. I am a baby boomer who grew up in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I love traveling full-time with my husband of 43 years. We have been on the road since 1996 (no house, no car, no worries). There is nothing like the experience of waking up each morning with a new view and fresh territory to explore. So far, our travels have taken us to over thirty-two countries and every state in the United States. I can’t wait to explore the next exciting destination with iPhone camera and notebook in hand. In addition to sharing my travel knowledge through writing and blogging, I am a verified travel consultant that enjoys researching, booking, and hosting group travel.

2. What are the top 3 things to do/see in Seward?

Take a Kenai Fjords National Park Tour – No matter how you explore beautiful Resurrection Bay and the Kenai Peninsula - by kayak, fishing boat, or organized tour boat, the snow-covered mountain views are specular, marine and wildlife sightings plentiful and calving tidewater glaciers breathtaking. Although, not technically located in Seward, it is the gateway to the park. Each park visit with its rugged, jagged coastline, towering mountains, and hanging glaciers delights and highlights the vastness of the Harding Ice Field and wilderness that is Alaska.

Hike Exit Glacier – Seward is a great place to be for access to hiking, running, and biking trails. One of my favorite hikes is to Exit Glacier. It is readily accessible by car and the hike can be as easy or strenuous as desired. Don’t miss this opportunity to get up close and personal with a glacier, just use caution as calving can occur at any time. Walk through towering spruce and cottonwood trees, experience the cool breeze as it flows off the huge expanse of blue ice, hear the rush of icy water as it melts, suddenly a sharp, loud crack echoes between the mountain peaks and heralds the sound of ice grinding and cutting its way down the mountain to the sea.

Take a Walk in Seward – Walk the historic district with its quaint shops, numerous eating establishments, and museums, and then amble along the beautiful Resurrection Bay shoreline past the Iditarod Dog Sled trailhead to the small boat harbor. My favorite Seward activity is to walk on the floating docks searching for the sea life that hangs out under the piers and around the pilings. I love watching the anglers snatching fish during the annual salmon runs. It is amazing to see them haul in fish as fast as they can cast into the bay. You might even see a huge halibut hanging near the fish cleaning area waiting to weigh in during the annual Halibut Fishing Tournament. Or, depending on the season you might catch a glimpse of the annual Polar Bear Plunge.

3. What are the top 3 tourist traps to avoid in Seward?

In general, I am not aware of any real tourist traps in Seward. However, you might want to consider the following:

Seavey’s Ididaride Sled Dog Tour – Although most visitors to Seward consider this activity cheesy, it is still a once in a lifetime experience. Where else can you ride a dog sled on a riverside trail with no snow? It is a great experience for families and visitors who don’t have the time or resources for a flightseeing trip up into the mountains and an authentic dog mushing experience. The historical and educational aspects of the tour make it worthwhile and it is something everyone should experience at least once.

Eating Out in Seward - Just because an item is highly priced does not mean it is going to be a fabulous dining experience. Dining out in Seward and Alaska in general is more expensive than in the lower 48 and elsewhere. Check the restaurant reviews and ask the locals for recommendations before venturing out. Don’t make the mistake of ordering a Halibut dinner expecting a fine dining experience and ended up with what are essentially heavily breaded fish sticks!

Shipping Costs – If you are planning to ship your fresh catch home check the price for shipping. Most outfitters charge for cleaning, fileting, packing in ice, boxing, and shipping. In the end, the cost might surprise you. Consider having your fresh catch prepared at a local restaurant like the Apolo or cook it yourself.

Resurrection Bay

4. What's your favorite restaurant in Seward and what's good there?

Each restaurant in Seward is unique in its own way with a hometown atmosphere and food to match. I love them all. We chose lodging with cooking facilities and cooked at home, grilling fresh catch or steaks and whipping up pancakes covered in locally made syrups with a sampling of fresh pastries and breads from the bakery down the street. Try Lingonberry, Cloudberry, or Salmonberry jams, jellies, and syrups. Yum!

5. What made you fall in love with Seward?

Alaska Starts Here - I love the beautiful scenery and feeling of remoteness in Seward. Towering, tree covered, snow-capped mountains surround the bay. A touch of coolness in the breeze mixes with the smell of the spruce trees and spray from the sea. Colorful fishing boats come and go. Moose, reindeer, and other wilderness animals run down the streets. Watching anglers catch pink and silver salmon in a matter of minutes at the mouth of the river and spotting eagles in their eyries rounds out the day. The hardiness of the local people struggling to survive in this harsh environment is evident everywhere you look.

6. Where else can we find your work/writing?

Find my travel writing at Unanchor, Amazon, my websites, and other locations online.

Website - Comphoppers: http://www.comphoppers.com/
Blog - Ultraescapees: http://www.ultraescapee.blogspot.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/Comphoppers
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Comphoppers
Tripatini: http://www.tripatini.com/profiles/blog/list?user=2wqf94bea1wg5
Farecompare: http://www.farecompare.com/travel-advice/farecompare-4×4-full-time-travel/

Visiting Seward? Make sure to check out Vickie's Alaska Starts Here - 3 Days in Seward itinerary.

Itinerary Writer Spotlight: Vanessa Pinto - Montauk, New York

Cat — Mon, 13 Apr 2015 20:23:17 GMT

In our "Itinerary Writer Spotlight" series, we interview our newest Unanchor writers and find out more about their city. Enjoy!

1. Who are you? Where are you from? What do you do?

My name is Vanessa Pinto. My hometown and current place of residence is East Hampton, NY. I am an English as a Second Language teacher, fitness instructor, and freelance writer. I live my my husband, daughter, and two cats named Abby and Lucy. My writing has been featured in Hamptons Magazine, Psychology Today, TEACH Mag, Study Bridge International, Pregnancy & Newborn, and Escape from America.

2. What are the top 3 things to do/see in Montauk?

Montauk Point State Park - The scenery from the lighthouse is breathtaking. Learn about the rich maritime history and how President Theodore Roosevelt once set up camp just a few miles away. Walk the surrounding trails and take a bicycle ride through the park. From November to April, you just may spot some seals basking in the sun on the bluff. Get ready to capture some memorable photos!

Shop at Gosman's Dock - Find everything local to Montauk all in one place. Shop handmade jewelry, apparel, seaside inspired pillows, soaps, and glassware. Look for great deals at the shops towards the end of the season. After working up an appetite, grab a bite to eat at Gosman's Inlet Cafe for the best whole lobster.

Horseback Riding Trails with Rita's Stables - Ride to one of Montauk's picturesque beaches and don't forget to take a tour of the stables and meet all of the adorable animals including donkeys, sheep, peacocks, geese, and goats. They are very friendly and welcome visitors of all ages.

3. What are the top 3 tourist traps to avoid in Montauk?

Pay exorbitant pricing for yoga classes - Montauk is a hot-spot for yogis. Skip the boutiques and instead look for donation based classes or free classes on Saturday afternoons at The Montauk Beach House or at Kirk Park Beach close to the Village of Montauk.

Overcharging for drinks - most restaurants and bars charge in excess of $14-$16 for speciality drinks at dinner! Avoid this by visiting Happy Hours across Montauk. My favorite is at Lunch aka The Lobster Roll between 3-5pm.

Taxis - Avoid them if you can! If you do not have your car, rent one at Enterprise in Southampton or ride your bicycle through the villages of Montauk and Amagansett. Avoid the traffic by riding down Indian Wells Highway then turning onto Bluff Road.

Montauk Point Lighthouse at Christmas

4. What's your favorite restaurant in Montauk and what's good there?

The Clam Bar on the Napeague Stretch for their excellent beer list, the best lobster roll in Montauk, and outdoor seating. Arrive earlier than 12pm or after 2pm to avoid the crowds on the weekends. There is a reason why so many people flock to this eatery.

5. What made you fall in love with Montauk?

I fell in love with Montauk because when you take the drive down the Napeague stretch, it is like entering a new world. It is a friendly, laid-back beach town with so much to discover. There are over seventy restaurants in Montauk alone, beautiful beaches that stretch for seemingly endless miles, and plenty of picturesque nature trails. Whether you enjoy sailing, horseback riding, surfing, paddle boarding, golfing, cycling, or cross-country skiing, you will settle in to Montauk perfectly.

6. Where else can we find your work/writing?

I am the Founder and Editor of East End Taste, www.eastendtaste.com, the food blog of the East End of Long Island. My Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest handles are @eastendtaste and my Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/eastendtaste.

Visiting Montauk? Make sure to check out Vanessa's A Local's Guide to Montauk, New York in 2 Days - From the Ocean to the Hills itinerary.

Itinerary Writer Spotlight: Nikoletta Lamprou - Halkidiki, Greece

Cat — Sun, 05 Apr 2015 17:29:07 GMT

In our "Itinerary Writer Spotlight" series, we interview our newest Unanchor writers and find out more about their city. Enjoy!

1. Who are you? Where are you from? What do you do?

My name is Nikoletta Lamprou and I come from Thessaloniki, a beautiful city in Northern Greece. Travelling is my passion and that’s why I studied Travel and Tourism Management at City College of San Francisco. I currently live in Switzerland where I am studying French and creating self-guided itineraries about destinations in Greece for Unanchor.com.

2. What are the top 3 things to do/see in Halkidiki?

Halkidiki is all about beaches. Explore the first (Kassandra) and the second (Sithonia) peninsulas to discover some really exotic beaches with turquoise waters. Top 5 beaches: Sani Resort at Kassandra, Afytos beach at Kassandra and Akti Kalogrias, Kavourotripes (Orange beach), and Karidi beach at Sithonia peninsula.

Rent your own boat from Vourvourou and explore the remote beaches of Diaporos island across Vourvourou at Sithonia Peninsula.

Go camping and have an amazing opportunity to enjoy real natural beauty! Sithonia has some of the best organized campsites in Greece. The three top ones are: Kalamitsi camping, Armenistis, and Iza camping, all are located at Sithonia, the second peninsula of Halkidiki.

3. What are the top 3 tourist traps to avoid in Halkidiki?

High traffic congestion at central intersections in Halkidiki that spills back for several kilometers. Many tourists don’t know that Halkidiki is a popular destination for Greeks, and especially people from Thessaloniki, which is a big city (more than 1 million inhabitants) who either choose to spend their holidays there in a hotel or camping, or they go to their beach houses. The most congested intersections are those in Nikiti at Sithonia peninsula and to Kalithea at Kassandra peninsula. Rush hours are: 10a.m. – 1p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and on Sundays after 5p.m. During July and until the 15th of August you may also find congestion during the weekdays.

Overpriced products at some beach bars and local supermarkets. Most of the beach bars don’t charge the sunbeds, but you have to purchase a beverage. Ask someone from the staff before you lay down on a sunbed about the charges. At most of them you are also not allowed to bring your own snacks. You may also find very expensive products at the local supermarkets, therefore, do your shopping before your trip.

Free camping is prohibited in Greece. Although you will see many free campers at the beaches, have in mind that if you choose to set your tent close to a campsite or a hotel, the owner may call the police and you will get a fine (100-150€).

Athytos Beach

4. What's your favorite restaurant in Halkidiki and what's good there?

My favorite restaurant/fish tavern in Halkidiki is Diamantis in Siviri at Kassandra peninsula. It is well known for the delicious fishes, fresh salads, and the magical sea view! When I am in Halkidiki, I always go there for dinner so that I can enjoy not only good food, but also an amazing sunset! Catch a table on the sand, right two steps from the sea, and order the fish of the day (if it is “barbuni” don’t hesitate to order it!), calamari and sardines, and of course a Greek fresh traditional salad.

If you are visiting the place during the high season (July-August), reservations is highly recommended. Phone number: +30 2374022273

5. What made you fall in love with Halkidiki?

I have been visiting Halkidiki since I was a child, and since 2004 my family owns a beach house in Sithonia peninsula, so I spend a few weeks there every summer. Even though, I have visited many beaches around the world on the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, I can surely say that I didn’t find anywhere like the beaches of Greece, and especially Halkidiki! Not even in the Caribbean Sea! And I am not saying that because I am Greek. The reason why I am in love with this place is because of that sensation of complete freedom and relaxation that it offers. This magical mixture of dreamy landscapes, hot calm waters, ideal climate, excellent Greek cuisine, safety, lively nightlife or isolated beaches, unique sunsets, and sitting on a beach in front of a fire under August‘s full moon is what makes Halkidiki my number one destination!

6. Where else can we find your work/writing?

You may also find my itineraries on my LinkedIn Account (Nicole Lamprou), on my Twitter (@nicole_lamprou), on Google+ (Nikoletta Lamprou), and on Pinterest (Nikoletta Lamprou).

Visiting Halkidiki? Make sure to check out Nikoletta's Day Trip From Thessaloniki to Kassandra Peninsula, Halkidiki, Greece itinerary.

Itinerary Writer Spotlight: Lynne Knightley - Valencia, Spain

Cat — Sun, 22 Mar 2015 20:09:57 GMT

In our "Itinerary Writer Spotlight" series, we interview our newest Unanchor writers and find out more about their city. Enjoy!

1. Who are you? Where are you from? What do you do?

I’m Lynne and I’m an English lady living in Copenhagen, Denmark. I moved here 15 years ago at the age of 21. I’m a travel consultant and a running coach. I love exploring European cities and discovering their secrets. My favourite places are Valencia, Copenhagen, Edinburgh, and anywhere else in Spain.

2. What are the top 3 things to do/see in Valencia?

Valencia Bioparc – This is a world-class zoo! The layout is excellent and creates the illusion of there being few fences. There are multiple places to view the animals and large spaces for them to roam. The animals are in as close to a natural environment as possible and you can almost reach out and stroke them. The entrance price is very reasonable for such a fantastic zoo. Bioparc is a must-see when in Valencia!

Principe Felipe Science Museum – The skeleton like architecture connected by huge windows letting in the natural light compliments the amazing exhibits and makes for a breath-taking attraction. You will learn about the human body, plants, animals, earth, and space in this interactive museum. You can also watch baby chicks hatching, join in a very interactive sports and fitness section, and wait for a Foucault pendulum to finally knock down a peg. This science museum is an incredible place and you will come out knowing so much more than when you went in!

La Malvarrosa Beach – This is a great place for a relaxing couple of hours at the beach. This is one of the nicer beaches in the area. It is clean and has very inviting blue waters. Even if you are here out of season, it is still nice for a walk along the sand or even to paddle your feet, though it can be a little cold as I found out! The promenade is a lovely place for a stroll. Stop at a bar for a drink and some people watching.

3. What are the top 3 tourist traps to avoid in Valencia?

This is a hard question to answer. I honestly cannot think of a single ‘tourist trap’! I believe this is because there are less tourists here than in the bigger cities in Spain such as Madrid and Barcelona. Even most of the attractions are very reasonably priced.

City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia

4. What's your favorite restaurant in Valencia and what's good there?

I love that Restaurante Taberna El Encuentro immediately makes you feel comfortable and at home. The restaurant has a great atmosphere and is in a beautiful location, and the staff are very welcoming and friendly. The croquetas here are probably the best you will ever taste and the lemon mousse for dessert is to die for!

5. What made you fall in love with Valencia?

I believe the first thing I fell in love with in Valencia was the old town. I simply love to explore narrow passageways and alleys as I enjoy getting lost, and finding quaint hidden shops and cafes. What makes me want to return time and time again is the Arts and Science area of Valencia. When the sun is shining (which is almost every day) the light reflecting off the architecture and water here is amazing! When the sun sets, this area is still fantastic as the buildings are lit up and shining. This is a city which, after one visit, will remain close to your heart!

6. Where else can we find your work/writing?

My other travel books and guides can be found at www.morethantourism.com and www.amazon.com/Lynne-Knightley. I also have a running travel blog at www.beginnersmarathon.blogspot.com. If you would like to be kept updated on my new books then follow me at www.facebook.com/morethantourism.

Visiting Valencia? Make sure to check out Lynne's Best of Valencia 2-Day Guide 2015.

Itinerary Writer Spotlight: Juan Luckey - Boracay, Philippines

Cat — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 03:19:24 GMT

In our "Itinerary Writer Spotlight" series, we interview our newest Unanchor writers and find out more about their city. Enjoy!

1. Who are you? Where are you from? What do you do?

Hi, I'm Juan, a professional travel writer, SEO copywriter, and associate professor for Hankuk University of Foreign Studies in Seoul, South Korea. I've been a travel lover since a very young age so it was natural for me to become a travel writer. I enjoy exploring places off the beaten path and continue to do so year after year. Meeting people, learning about interesting and exciting places, and experiencing unique cultures is a passion for me and I don't think I will ever stop.

I was born in Savannah, GA, USA, which is a great place to write about in itself due to the rich history in the area that dates back to pre-colonial America. I try to visit a new place at least once a year, if not more. For the past few years, I've taken the time to focus on Asia because it is a unique continent to explore and I can enjoy every moment with my family.

2. What are the top 3 things to do/see in Boracay?

The food! The Philippines is underrated when it comes to Asian cuisine. Not only do you have several varieties of amazing food offerings ranging from American, European, Mexican, Chinese, Singaporean, Korean, Japanese, Hong Kong, Vietnamese, Mongolian, and much more all in one place, the local food is definitely an experience you should not miss! I personally love barbecued lechon which is basically a spit-roasted suckling pig roasted over a slow flame and seasoned to perfection. It is also a Filipino favorite especially during holidays and special occasions. Boracay is a popular place among local Filipinos for "food tripping" and foreign visitors are welcome to enjoy its unique array of food delicacies as well. Best of all, it's super cheap in comparison to what I would pay back home for the same type of food!
Walking along the most beautiful white sand beaches in Asia. I've been to quite a few beaches in Asia and I can honestly tell you that there are few places on the continent (and even the world) that can compare to the amazing beauty you will experience in Boracay. When you take a stroll along Boracay's pristine white sand beaches, it feels like you are in another world where you feel an inner peace because you have finally arrived in a true paradise. No joke.
Ariel's Point. I remember cliff diving at Doctor's Cave in Montego Bay, Jamaica and I thought that the 30 foot drop into the shallow, clear water was one of the most memorable experiences I could ever tell someone as a traveler. Ariel's Point tops it because you not only enjoy a memorable diving experience, but you can spend the whole day in the area doing other awesome water sport activities that includes food, drinks, and boat transportation, which is all-inclusive. At Doctor's Cave, I was stung by a man-o-war a few minutes after I hit the water and endured some serious pain. Ariel's Point is totally safe as long as you avoid too much alcohol and follow instructions from your guide.

3. What are the top 3 tourist traps to avoid in Boracay?

Dishonest tricycle drivers. When you read my itinerary, you may need to rely on tricycle drivers to follow the schedule. There are some drivers that intentionally try to charge double, triple, or even quadruple the price (especially if you show signs of being intoxicated with a pocket full of money). You can avoid this problem by either asking a local what the fare should cost to your intended destination or simply refuse the fare because there is always another driver available who will charge you the correct fare.
Additional fees. My itinerary was written to help you save money and have a fantastic time...at the same time. If you follow the itinerary, the fees are set in stone and if a boat driver or guide asks you for additional money, simply tell him you have already paid for your package. Do not be manipulated into paying additional money. In some cases, a driver or guide may ask for a small tip (20p-50p = roughly $0.50 - $1.25 USD), which I think is acceptable because the people who are serving you most likely come from poor families and this money will go towards helping them in most cases.
Harassment from vendors and beggars. I've traveled to quite a few Asian countries with nice beaches and I can tell you that harassment from vendors and beggars is sort of unavoidable. People are allowed to go on the beach and bother you. It is something you cannot avoid and their goal is to extract some cash or coins out of your pocket. After you dismiss a few of them, they usually get the point and leave you alone. You have to have a little thick skin and know how to say "No thank you".

White Beach Station 1, Boracay Island

4. What's your favorite restaurant in Boracay and what's good there?

I honestly cannot really narrow down one specific restaurant that I can say is my favorite. Just take a stroll though D'Mall and Station 2 (White Beach) and you will be overwhelmed with choices. I can tell you that I spent about 2 hours during sunset at Mongolian Grill, Station 2, White Beach and it was fantastic. I couldn't eat enough of the awesome seafood, meat, and veggies that are laid out for you to choose from and then cooked on the spot. The food tasted totally amazing and the atmosphere is incredible. I soaked my feet in the sand in a relaxing beach chair with a candlelit table, sipped on cold drinks, and watched the gorgeous Boracay sunset. It's an experience that I definitely recommend.

5. What made you fall in love with Boracay?

If you ask most Filipinos, Boracay is always #1 as one of the best destinations in the Philippines to visit and experience. If you take the time to meet local visitors on the island, you may find out that it is their first time to visit there. In the past, many Filipinos could not afford such luxuries and it is still true today for many people who live in the country. In recent years, the Philippines economy has improved tremendously and locals continue to flock there by the droves especially during summer season. I fell in love with the place because locals can't stop talking about how much fun Boracay has to offer and I had an unforgettable experience when I was there.

6. Where else can we find your work/writing?

https://twitter.com/JuanLuckey

Visiting Boracay? Make sure to check out Juan's Boracay Island, Philippines - Escape to Paradise 5-Day Tour Itinerary.

Itinerary Writer Spotlight: Mitchell Edgeworth - Melbourne, Australia

Cat — Mon, 09 Mar 2015 02:53:00 GMT

In our "Itinerary Writer Spotlight" series, we interview our newest Unanchor writers and find out more about their city. Enjoy!

1. Who are you? Where are you from? What do you do?

I’m a young writer, originally from Western Australia. I moved to Melbourne for three years before moving to London recently because I wanted to get some more travelling and living overseas down before I started approaching my late 20s. At the moment I work in media, but I’m trying to piece together a supplementary career doing freelance writing.

2. What are the top 3 things to do/see in Melbourne?

The thing about Melbourne is that, compared to Sydney, it doesn’t really have any major sights or famous monuments. It’s like Vancouver or Portland: famous mostly for its excellent quality of life rather than anything like a big bridge or building. It’s a place to enjoy excellent dining and drinking.

An AFL game at the MCG is a bit of a cliche, but it’s still worth doing, even for overseas visitors. Australian football combines the agility of soccer with the brutality of rugby, and seeing a game at the MCG (which is larger than any stadium in Europe) is an unforgettable experience – and I say that as someone who doesn’t particularly like sport.

The National Gallery of Victoria (note the arrogant, contradictory name) is a very fine art gallery and admission is completely free, which is rare in Australia.

Simply walking around the streets and laneways of the CBD is a great experience – it’s a very modern city unlike anything in Europe, with enormous skyscrapers jostling shoulders with 19th century theatres. The tram network means the CBD is extremely well connected with the inner city suburbs, and it’s a more vibrant, lively and diverse city centre than any other in Australia.

Another thing I’d mention is getting out of the city itself - rural Victoria is wonderful. The Dandenong Mountains are an hour away by car or train, and are my dream place to one day retire. The Mornington Peninsula is full of great beaches, restaurants and holiday towns. Daylesford is a mountain town three hours away with hot springs and spas.

3. What are the top 3 tourist traps to avoid in Melbourne?

St Kilda is an iconic but awful beach. It’s not St Kilda’s fault, it’s just way too close to the city and the port. If you want to swim, venture further afield. The neighbourhood of St Kilda itself is great, just don’t put your body in that water. Even if you’re from Canada or England or whatever and it looks like paradise, I can assure you, there are much better beaches a mere twenty minutes away.

Crown Casino, much like the Star in Sydney, is a gigantic ugly casino designed to make the ordinary man feel like he’s living it up. Unless you’re an avid gambler there’s nothing to see here.

If you’re going shopping, I would avoid the two enormous department stores on Bourke Street, Myer and David Jones. They’re not like Harrods or Selfridges in London, where it’s fun to just look around; they’re just dull, generic shops. Stick to the smaller shops and boutiques in the city’s laneways and arcades.

Melbourne's Hidden Bars (Photo credit: Chris Samuel, Creative Commons)

4. What's your favorite restaurant in Melbourne and what's good there?

The funny thing is that after three years, I can recommend you a hundred bars and dozens of cafes, but never really had any restaurant meals that blew me away. I do like Meatballs quite a bit, which is in both Richmond and the CBD; also Punch Lane and Mamasita. If you want something good but also cheap, Kokoro Ramon on Lonsdale Street is a great little Japanese hole-in-the-wall place.

5. What made you fall in love with Melbourne?

Honestly, I think it was when some friends took me to Rooftop Bar for the first time. I’d already been living there for a few weeks and I liked the city well enough, but I’d also just returned from Europe, and Melbourne seemed disappointingly familiar and dull compared to places like London and Berlin. Climbing up six flights of stairs and emerging onto a crowded rooftop bar made me realise that Melbourne’s interesting stuff was all happening at the margins: the laneways, the basements and the rooftops.

Other than that, it grew on me because of its age. It has a sense of place and history that no Australian city but Sydney can match. Many cities, like my hometown of Perth, made the terrible mistake of bulldozing most of their heritage architecture in the mid 20th century. Melbourne didn’t (and it was also proved right in retaining its tram network), and its inner city neighbourhoods still have a unique aesthetic charm.

6. Where else can we find your work/writing?

I keep a blog at www.grubstreethack.wordpress.com, which is mostly for book reviews, but also has links to my published fiction. I also tweet as @mitchedgeworth.

Visiting Melbourne? Make sure to check out Mitchell's An Afternoon & Evening in Melbourne's Best Hidden Bars itinerary.

Header image credit: Zanmanken, Creative Commons

Itinerary Writer Spotlight: Danielle Caldron - Doha, Qatar

Cat — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 19:06:55 GMT

In our "Itinerary Writer Spotlight" series, we interview our newest Unanchor writers and find out more about their city. Enjoy!

1. Who are you? Where are you from? What do you do?

My name is Danielle. I am originally from the US, but I have been on the move for the last fifteen years. I currently live in Doha, Qatar as an English lecturer, but try to spend as much time as possible on the road taking photos and writing.

2. What are the top 3 things to do/see in Doha?

For such a small city, Doha has quite a bit to see. The museum is amazing...the best in the Gulf.

I also really enjoy the souk. This modernised market is the perfect place to sit outside smoking shisha (tobacco water pipe) and watch the world go by. This is one of my favourite places to buy local handicrafts. Artisans specialize in making wooden chests and swords.

Katara is another great place. It is basically an art village on the sea. It is a great place to see outdoor music events and local art exhibitions.

3. What are the top 3 tourist traps to avoid in Doha?

Doha isn’t really a tourist town yet, so there aren’t really any tourist traps. However, Doha does see itself as a shopper’s haven. I would avoid any of the numerous shopping malls.

Dhow Harbor

4. What's your favorite restaurant in Doha and what's good there?

My favourite restaurant hands down is Al Matbakh. Not that many locals know about this place. It is a rooftop restaurant with cozy seats with cushions with spectacular views of the skyline of West Bay. The food is Indian-Arabic-Western fusion. The menu has primarily meat and seafood dishes. The tandoori hammour is my favourite dish.

5. What made you fall in love with Doha?

I love Doha because it has all the best that the Gulf has to offer. Doha is a big city, like Dubai, but has retained much of its culture, like Muscat in Oman. It is also one of the safest cities in the world and has an interesting diversity of people living here from every corner of the world.

6. Where else can we find your work/writing?

Visiting Doha? Make sure to check out Danielle's Doha 2-Day Stopover Cultural Tour.