1) Hello to both of you! Could you introduce yourselves to our readers and tell us a bit about your website?

Tammy: 31 years old, German, works for an NGO and is button-pusher-in-chief, writer and photographer on the blog Tammy & Chris on the move

Chris: 33 years old, English, works for an NGO

We are a couple hailing from Germany and England, meaning between us we are efficient and polite, but unable to talk about football or 20th century history. In October 2011 we stopped pushing pens around the British civil service to volunteer, travel and work abroad. We write about our travels, travel mishaps and volunteering experiences on our blog.

Chris and Tammy

2) Where in the world are you now? And where are you heading next?

Tammy: We are currently in Cambodia and actually have been here for 1.5 years now. Initially we came to Cambodia for a six months voluntary placement, but we both got offered paid jobs in the NGO sector afterwards, and as we have fallen head over heels for the country and its people we decided to stick around for a bit. We will be here until October this year and are not sure yet what we will be doing afterwards, but we are keen to discover more of Asia, i.e. Burma, Japan or Laos.

3) Where was your best holiday and why?

Tammy: My best holiday was a trip to Ecuador a few years ago. It combined everything I like: mountain trekking, jungle trekking and wildlife. We climbed the Cotopaxi volcano, which was my first ever high altitude climb; we trekked through the mighty Amazon rainforest and battled vampire bats; and snorkeled with penguins and sea lions in the Galapagos Islands.

Tammy in the Amazon

4) Is there a place you would never return to?

Tammy: As a teenager I went to Lloret de Mar in Spain and as it was one of those places where people go to party, drink a senseless amount of sangria and then fall asleep on the beach getting sunburnt. It was fun when I was young, but I think I am too old for these kinds of holidays now and I am more interested in getting to know the country, food and culture.

5) Your favourite city?

Tammy: My favourite city is Buenos Aires. The Europen style combined with the Latin passion is such a great mix. Visiting a milonga to watch locals dance the Argentine tango is one of the most amazing things to witness and if you have ever tried an Argentine filet steak you will never want to eat anything else again.

6) Your favourite holiday souvenir?

Tammy: I am such a souvenir addict – much to the distress of my hubby. I almost always buy little statues, jewelry or handbags.

7) Where did you find the friendliest people?

Tammy: I might be biased, but I think the friendliest people live in Cambodia. Despite some of the challenges some people are facing here they will share with you what little they possess and they always greet you with the biggest and most beautiful smiles in the world.

Smiley Cambodian woman

8) Is there something you cannot travel without?

Tammy: My DSLR camera. I take it with me all the time and take photos of everything.

9) Do you have any favourite holiday photos?

Tammy: My favourite photo is this one I have taken at the Iguassu Falls in Brazil.

Iguassu Falls

10) Who would be your ideal travel companion?

Tammy: Someone who is interested in the same things I am interested in. For example I am not keen on museums or churches, but love outdoor activities like trekking, so if I was traveling with a person that doesn’t like those sorts of things that would be a problem.

11) Your favourite cuisine?

Tammy: Ha ha, is it biased to say German? I grew up on that food, so I obviously like German food a lot. It is very hearty food and you can’t beat German sausages or German bread. My second favourite cuisine is Italian though. It is really simple but flavoursome food. I love pasta, pizza, tomatoes and olives especially.

12) Are there any travel blogs you read and that you would like to recommend us?

Tammy: I read loads of travel blogs, so couldn’t possibly list them all, but my top five are globetrottergirls.com, alexinwanderland.com, sarahsomewhere.com, overyonderlust.com and somanyplaces.com.

13) Did you manage to work with some travel companies and how was the experience like?

Tammy: I haven’t worked with any travel companies so far, as despite being German I am far too disorganized for that, but it is definitely something I am going to look into in the near future.

14) Any travel tips for our readers?

Tammy: Don’t be shy interacting with locals. These can be some of your best experiences. They can introduce you to food you wouldn’t normally buy, drinks or alternative sights. On a field trip with work I once started talking to a girl who wanted to practice her English about food and I told her that I haven’t really tried many Cambodian deserts yet. After a while she asked me to wait for few moments and then came back with some to die for rice based deserts. I wouldn’t have been able to get those in a restaurant and it was such a nice feeling knowing that the girl whose parents clearly didn’t have much money shared some precious food with me.

15) Anything else you wish to add?

Top tip: never agree to a cleansing ritual by an Amazonian shaman. It sounds fun, but you will be spat in the face by him, which is – well – not so much fun

Cleansing ritual by an Amazonian shaman

[Caption: This photo was taken just before he spat in my face. Chris is still regretting to this day that he didn’t take a photo of it. Yes, I have a mean husband! ]

Thanks a lot for giving your time to take part in this interview. Wish you all the best in your travels!

Rome, the country’s capital, is full of history and cultural sights. Must visits include: the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Venice is a wondrous city full of romance; travel down the canal on a vaporetto (a water bus) or a gondola whilst taking in the characteristic hustle and bustle of a buzzing Italian city. Enjoy a meal accompanied by traditional dancing and music at St Mark’s Square or visit the magnificent Accademia Gallery.

For jam packed adventure and activities, holiday next to Lake Garda – Italy’s largest lake. There are water sports, rock-climbing, sailing opportunities, and children will love visiting the theme park Gardaland while parents can take in the stunning scenery and relaxing spas.

Head to the lifestyle capital Milan – it’s a wonderful escape with top class spas, hotels and a sublime shopping experience. From tall skyscrapers to historic buildings, wander around precious art galleries or browse the chic boutiques. One of the iconic fashion capitals of the world, Milan has it all.

For families, Italy’s two largest islands, Sardinia and Sicily are popular choices with their beautiful beaches and stunning scenery. A must visit is Sicily’s fascinating volcanic sight of Mount Etna. Taormina is a popular place to stay here boasting fabulous views of the bay. On Sardinia, the Costa Smeralda is an upmarket town where many stars have holidayed – luxurious hotels, spas and shops can be found here. Nearby are the beautiful port towns of Cagliari and Alghero.

The weather in Italy varies, with its highest temperature hitting 29° and 30° in July and August and its lowest dropping to 5° or 6° in winter. However even in winter Sardinia and Sicily can see temperatures of 13° and 14°, so Italy is certainly a No. 1 choice at any time of year.

‘The Islands’ are actually the chain of nine islands, with Büyükada and Heybeliada being the largest ones. In the past the islands were mostly populated by Greek, Jewish and Armenian communities while today Turkish population dominates.

On the way to the Princes’ Islands

It’s a totally different place comparing to Istanbul. The first thing you will realize is that there are no cars on the islands and the only way to explore them or to get from point A to point B is either by bicycle, horse-drawn carriage or by walking, which makes it quite peaceful comparing to Istanbul’s center. Bicycles are available for rent in many shops.

Street works in Büyükada

The islands are totally different during Summer and Winter season. Busy at Summer especially during the weekend, and empty during Winter. A lot of houses at the islands are actually holiday homes whose owners come to visit them during weekends.

Beautiful white homes

The largest island Büyükada is beautiful with its villas, but its most famous landmark is the Greek monastery of St. George. The monastery’s site is on a steep hill but once you are on the top you’ll be rewarded with a wonderful panorama of Istanbul and the surroundings.

Horse-drawn carriage on the Princes’ Islands

A great way to discover the islands is by bicycle

A ghost town in Winter

Beware of dog!

One of the houses on the island of Büyükada

How to get to the Princes’ Islands?

Ferries depart from Bostancı, Kartal and Maltepe on the Asian side and from Kabataş on the European side. To check the timetables and the fares visit ido.com.tr

*Tip* Don’t forget to check departure times of ships back to the city, since they are less frequent after the night falls.

The ferry port of Büyükada

Why should you visit the Princes’ Islands?

Silence and picnic. If you need a short escape from the hubbub of the city this is the place to go.

Just because you’re having to be frugal doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a retreat though – it just means you have to be a bit more prudent. Rather than looking towards faraway shores, look closer to home with a weekend in Brighton, where there are plenty of budget-friendly itinerary fillers that can help to provide a memorable holiday, that’s kind on the purse. If you plan to book Brighton hotels from Travelodge, you can ensure that everything from accommodation to activities are affordable while adding plenty of memories for you to reminisce over in the future.

If you’re hoping to cut a few corners during your trip, there are usually plenty of deals online for you to make use of, saving you pounds on restaurants and attractions, to keep costs low. Take a look at the Visit Brighton offers page for some superb discounts across the resort, including sumptuous meals and 2 for 1 opportunities.

If you have the fortune of flexibility, it’s certainly worth travelling out of season. As soon as half terms and summer holidays come into play, you can expect prices to increase to coincide with demand. If you are able, take your break in Brighton during the off-peak times. After Easter, before July and avoiding the May half term will often provide reduced rates on accommodation as well as off-peak entry fees to attractions. It also means less people to share the resort with, leading to a more relaxing time.

Similarly, travelling mid-week rather than at the weekend will open up some fantastic bargains that you wouldn’t ordinarily see during weekend visits. Obviously, it’s not always feasible to travel during the week due to work commitments, but if you’re able to, it may be worth considering.

Take the time to stop at the Visitor Information Centre, where you can buy a combiticket that includes the Royal Pavilion as well as entry to the SEA LIFE Centre which will save you a fortune compared with if you bought them separately on the day.

The resort of Brighton is such a quintessentially British town that it’d be a shame to call a taxi or catch a bus to explore it. Take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the sights on foot and save yourself some money at the same time. If you do decide to hop on a bus, invest in a supersaver ticket which will give you access to resorts further afield, such as Hove, Shoreham and Eastbourne.

With so many activities available for free, such as whiling away some time on the beach, on the pier, at the museums or enjoying the undercliff walks, a stint in Brighton can cost as little as you like. Go online to book Brighton hotels from Travelodge and start planning your thrifty seaside adventure.

This list will be primarily focused at attractions and events;

FESTIVALS/EVENTS

Children’s Day

A public holiday dedicated to children of Turkey and the world is celebrated annually every April 23rd. Besides performances at stadiums, Turkey is also the host of the “TRT International April 23 Children’s Festival” which gathers children from all over the world who are invited to stay at Turkish families’ homes. They get the opportunity to interact with Turkish kids and learn about each other’s countries and cultures.

Orthodox Easter

Celebrated by the Greek Orthodox community in Fener.

Akbank Short Film Festival

Besides the screenings of films from all over the world, the festival also includes workshops and conferences.

Anniversary of Atatürk’s death

On the 10th November at 9.05, a minute’s silence is held to commemorate the death of the founder of Turkish republic.

ATTRACTIONS

(by area)

Sultanahmet Area

- All mosques; Blue Mosque, Küçük Ayasofya Camii (Little Hagia Sophia), Sokollu Mehmed Paşa Camii

- Hippodrome

- Çemberlitaş

- or you can stroll along Arasta Bazaar

The area around Topkapi Palace

In this area you can:

- Sit on a bench and watch the passers-by at the Gülhane Parkı

- Wander through Soğukçeşme Sokak (Street of the Cold Fountain)

- Visit Caferağa Medresesi

- Visit Sirkeci Railway Station which once was the last stop of Orient Express

- Go inside the Yeni Camii (New Mosque)

- Walk across the Galata Bridge

Baazar District

- All mosques; Nuruosmaniye Mosque, Beyazit Camii, Süleymaniye Camii, Şehzade Mehmet Camii, Zeyrek Camii, Rüstem Pasha Camii

- Get lost at the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar

- See Beyazit Square and Istanbul University

- See one of the most famous landmarks of the city- Aqueduct of Valens

- Stroll through Sahaflar Çarşısı (Book Bazaar)  (for the literature lovers)

Western Districts

- All mosques; Fatih Camii, Mihrimah Sultan Camii, Fethiye Camii, Sultan Selim Camii, Eyüp Sultan Camii

- See Tekfur Sarayi

- Visit the Church of St. Mary of the Mongols and the Church of St. Stephen of the Bulgars

- Visit the Ahrida Synagogue

- Visit the Ecumenical Orthodox Patriarchate

Galata and Tophane Area

- All mosques; Azarkapi Sokollu Mehmet Pasha Camii and Arap Camii

- Walk up the Kamondo Stairs

- Visit the Church of St. Peter & Paul

- Visit Neve Shalom Synagogue

İstiklal

- Visit Christ Church and Çiçek Pasajı (Flower Passage)

or even better;

- Get inside the Pera Palas Hotel whose guests were Agatha Christie and Greta Garbo

- Wander around Taksim Square- the heart of modern Istanbul

- Stroll along the İstiklal street

Beşiktaş

- Visit Ortaköy Camii

- Walk through Yildiz Parki

Üsküdar

- All mosques; Atik Valide Camii, Çinili Camii, Yeni Valide Camii, Şemsi Paşa Camii

- See Mimar Sinan Çarşisi

- Enjoy the view from the highest point of the city- Camlica Hill

- Visit the Florence Nightingale Museum

Kadıköy

- Walk along the glamorous Bağdat Caddesi

ARTS

Free Art galleries

- Galeri Nev

- Galerist

- SALT

- Proje4L/Elgiz Museum of Contemporary Art

Other interesting reads;

Mosques of Istanbul

All I ever wanted to know about Ottoman Architecture

Istanbul in photos

1. First of all, hello Dave and Nicky! Could you briefly introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your website?

Vicky: I am a major foodie with a passion for all things edible. After college I worked as an accountant in DC as well as ran a catering company with several friends. I am responsible for the photography and, in addition to our travel blog, run a food blog at Avocadopesto.

Dave: After graduating college with a degree in Applied Math I went to work in financial services for two years. It was a great introduction into corporate life style but I still had a calling for something more adventurous and set off with Vicky on our two year journey through Asia and Europe. I handle most of the technical and website side of things as well as being responsible for most of the writing on ACoupleTravelers.

Our blog is called ACoupleTravelers and it chronicles our journey through Asia and Europe, highlighting activities we do, interactions with locals, and mishaps along the way. It’s primarily focused on traveling on a budget but we think there’s something there for everyone.

2. I must say you guys have a very interesting ‘about us’ page on your website. Where was your first trip abroad as a couple?

Our first trip abroad as a couple was to Italy. We were there for 12 days and went to Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, and Turin. We had just graduated high school but managed to navigate around just fine unchaperoned. After that we knew we were great travel companions.

3. Where are you located now? And what are your plans for the future?

Right now we’re in Burma and still have more traveling in SEA to do. We’ll head back to Thailand for a bit to go up North, and then spend a month in Laos and another month in Cambodia.

4. Your favourite country thus far and why?

We were both huge fans of Vietnam. We did a bunch of organized tours that we really loved. The people were really kind and hospitable and had no ill feelings of the war. The country is beautiful in a tropical way, which was new for us. Lastly, the food is delicious.

5. Dave I’ve read that you ate an insect in South East Asia and that you used to be a stand-up comedian. First tell us what was that insect like? And what other things are you looking to accomplish in the future?

The insect was actually a worm patty so it was like worms mixed together with something else, maybe a bit of egg? It didn’t taste much like insect but the whole mind over matter thing made me only eat half. We’re both always looking to try new things and have a long bucket list to accomplish. I hope to try some extreme activities like bungee jumping and sky diving since Vicky has done both.

6. What about you Vicky? You did bungee jumping, tell us bit more about it and what else is in your bucket list?

The summer of 2009 I had an internship in Sydney and over a long weekend flew to visit some friends who were studying abroad in Auckland, NZ. Over the course of 4 days together we all went bungee jumping and sky diving for the first time. It was an adrenaline packed few days and both experiences were nothing short of amazing (with bungee jumping being significantly scarier than sky diving). As for other bucket list activities, I would love to try hang gliding, kite surfing, scuba diving, etc.

7. Which cuisine do you enjoy the most?

We both love Japanese food i.e Sushi (but really all things Japanese) as well as Thai food. It’s hard to choose just one. We found the quality of Japanese food to be top-notch with the freshest fish we’ve ever tried. As for Thai food, there are so many different flavors between the different curry pastes and stir fries and we love the lemongrass, ginger, and kaffir lime leaves which seem to be used to add flavor to almost every dish.

8. What kind of travelers are you?

For the most part we’re budget backpackers although that doesn’t mean we ALWAYS go for the cheapest option. It just means we take our budget into account and limit some of the activities we do if they are too pricey. We do a lot of Couch Surfing but if hostels are cheap we’ll also get a private room, since for a couple it’s not that expensive per person.

9. What travel blogs do you like to read?

Before we started our trip we read a lot of Uncornered Market, The Road Forks, Nomadic Matt, The Planet D, – mostly very established blogs.

Now that we’re on the road we like to read about people who started around when we did or maybe a bit before like Traveling9to5, LandingStanding, 20YearsHence, NeverEndingFootsteps, and TravelingLiz.

10. What is your favourite thing about blogging?

Our favorite thing about blogging is knowing that we’re preserving all our stories and pictures in an organized way. It’s great to know I can relive any event with the click of a button.

11. Did you manage to work with some travel companies and how was the experience like?

We’ve worked with a few companies while traveling such as our Halong Bay Cruise in Vietnam. Generally this works that the company offers a discount on the activity in return for a review on the blog. It’s great because it allows us to do more activities since they are lighter on the budget, and therefore we can bring more stories and tips to our readers.

12. Any tips or advices for people on the road and those who are planning to depart?

If you’re planning on departing you’re probably a little tense (at least, we were). Relax. If things don’t go according to plan they probably work out in some way or another. It’s good to be prepared but also to be flexible when things change, as they inevitably do.

13. Anything else you wish to add?

If you’re reading this and thinking that it would be great to take some time off and travel – it is, and it is a real possibility for many people. We’ve run into parents with children, solo female travelers, etc. Work out a good plan to save money and organize your trip – it probably costs less than you think.

Thank you a lot for giving us some of your time to take part in this interview. All the best in your travels!

A great website that can help you find and compare car parking prices at UK airports, such as Gatwick Airport parking and other products online is Parking4Less.

They offer a quick, easy and secure online booking but you also have the option to call them for free on 0800 902 0381 (open: 8am-11pm & 8:30am-8pm weekends).

Depending on your budget you can choose between on-airport or off-airport parking.

The cheapest option is off-airport parking, where you hand over your keys for one of the company drivers to park the car for you. Free transfers run every 10/15 minutes. The whole process is bit longer than on-airport parking but can also have its advantages apart from being cheap.

On-airport parking is the closest to the airport terminals and usually you’ll be directed to park your car in a space, keep the keys and wait for a courtesy bus to take you to the departure terminal.

The most expensive option is Meet and Greet parking. There are various options available either offering the service on both departure and arrival or just on one leg of your journey.

Parking4less.com also offer airport parking and hotel packages. Depending on the hotel your car will usually be parked within the grounds or if not at a local secure car park.

There is also a best price guarantee and that means if you find the same Airport Hotel or Airport Parking product for less within 7 days of booking, Parking4Less will match the price or refund the difference.

Another great thing is that they have compiled guides of the major airports in the UK, with airport facilities, destinations, airlines and tips for passengers.

In their Budget Traveller Trends infographic for 2012/13 you can also find out the top holiday cities, the top countries that book by mobile, most popular cities for 2013, fastest fading cities in 2013 and more!

This infographic is great and it might help everyone plan their next trip!

Click the image to see the big version!

Source: HostelBookers

Hey Joanna, could you introduce yourself and your blog to our readers?

Hi! Of course! I’m Joanna Groblińska,  a Polish student of English Linguistics, who just loves travelling  and is your dedicated fan. Your page, actually, inspired me to broad my passion – which is Turkey. Our blog and facebook page are dedicated to all lovers of Turkey in the world,  also to those who want to get to know this beautiful country. Today I have also pleasure to talk about one of the most beautiful European places – Crete.

What were your first impressions of Crete?

Hmm.. Crete.. Sun, blue sky and sea, magical sunsets, living history and taste of the best wine. Greeks gave me such a warm welcome, that I will remember it for all of my life. Beauty of this island mixed with the charm of old monuments and modern life. Also, it enchanted me with its taste hahah  – Greek food and drinks are the best I’ve ever tried!

Which regions/cities have you visited?

I spent two weeks in Adelianos Kampos but also visited Rethymno, Heraklion, Knossos  and Gramvousa. All of these places bring me magical memories.

What is the best way to discover the island?

Personally I would recommend you public transport – It’s cheap and you can ask the locals to recommend places to go.  Travelling by bus is also a saver – renting a car can be more comfortable but there is always a risk that you will get lost. What’s more, travelling by public transport can give you an opportunity to get to know Crete even better.

Must visit sights?

Obviously Knossos – a historical place, the source and heart of ancient, classical culture and art. However, I would never forget to mention Rethymno – the most lovely and beautiful port city I’ve ever visited.

Best beaches?

My favourite one is in Adelianos Kampos and I can recommend you that with all of my heart!

Can you describe Crete in five words?

Zorba’s dance. Tasty food. History. Beauty. Wine.

You can’t visit Crete without….

Camera – Crete is full of beautiful sights and you just can’t leave it without capturing them, not only in your memory. Also English-Greek dictionary – each time I tried to speak Greek I was welcomed with a beautiful smile.

What is the local cuisine like?

Tasty! Main course was of course a Greek salad – made of feta, fresh tomatoes, olives and other vegetables. Besides, a lot of dishes were made with lamb meat or seafood, which I really loved. When it comes to drinks – the best was of course Greek wine and fresh made fruit juices. I was surprised to to know that Turkish raki (a hard, unsweetened, anise-flavored alcoholic drink) was popular in Crete. Careful – it can make you easily drunk hahah

The best souvenir to bring home?

The best souvenir you can take from Crete are photos actually, they keep great memories in the best possible way.

Why visit Crete?

It is beautiful like all of Greece but with its own, special character. Crete is more mysterious as it is still alive with mythological spirit. You can have some fun there, learn history, drink delicious wine and dance Zorba- the Greek dance. You can watch stunning sunsets and swim in the beautiful sea. Everything in one paradise. 

Any other tips you’ve got to share?

Most of Greeks don’t have any problems with English language. However, trying to speak Greek seems to make the people smile and be much kinder to you. Also, if you get lost in the countryside, having an English-Greek dictionary  can be helpful.

Joanna, thank you so much for giving us some of your time to take part in this interview! So glad we served as an inspiration for your project!

© eurotribe.com, Joanna Groblińska, All rights reserved

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