I wasn’t about to confess that I was deadbeat after three days of travel, five airplanes and 18 hours of flying time.

“I’m perfect, excited to be here again!” I replied, which was true-at least the second half.

“Excellent, because I have signed you up for an ice fishing contest that begins very shortly, let’s go. Here are some chocolates, by the way.” And off we went.

Ice fishing in Lpaland, Finland

A Quick Overview of Inari- Saariselka Region in Lapland

Ivalo is the second largest town in Finnish Lapland,  a huge expanse of land covering the North of Finland  and also the North of Sweden and Finland.  This is a land of contrasts, with densely populated forests covered by snow during the winter months spotted by scattered lakes that remain frozen  for a good part of the year. The biggest of them is lake Inari, about 120 km long and around 60 km wide, and is, essentially, the heart of this fenomenal region of Finland.

I had visited Inari for a few days five years ago, and fell in love with this part of the world.  There’s a feeling of remoteness that has not been compromised by communications and services ,  and if you enjoy being in the wild even the slightest bit you’ll find Lapland to be the perfect winter playground: ice fishing, cross country skiing, trekking, downhill skiing, husky safaris, snowmobile safaris , hunting, and admiring the northern lights are all actively practiced in Lapland, even becoming part of the daily life of local residents, mainly the Sami.

Micca with all the gear

My Experience Ice Fishing in Lapland

Back to the ice fishing. The empty road meandered between snow covered hills, lakes and patches of forests, a beautiful landscape I was enjoying every bit of after not being here – or anywhere similar- for quite some time. It was  around -5 C, and it was snowing lightly. At some point Micca drove off the main road to park the car and gave me the gear I’d be using to stay warm: a snowmobiling overall, some rubber boots and a small backpack, while he carried the other and an orange hole driller. I left  my new backpack with all my gear but the camera in the car, thankfully.

“We’re a little but late” Micca commented casually, “but this is fishing so we might just be lucky”. We stepped into the ice and snow covered lake and walked to a spot not too close but not too far from where other contestants were placed.  Micca opened the backpack and pulled the gear we would be needing to practice a sport I had really never given a second thought, but I was excited. It could have been the landscape, but the prospect of being lucky and actually fishing something was catching up.

“This is how you do it”. He grabbed the hole driller and effortlessly drilled  a whole through the ice layer which  he estimated to be about 40 cm deep. When done, he pulled the fishing rods, and these turned out to be my first surprise, as ice fishing rods are not more than 40 cm long, and made of plastic. He then grabbed the hook, placed a fake worm as bait, and let the line sink through the hole.

Setting up the spot is not very difficult, and drilling the hole is easier than what you might think

“Once you notice that the line has reached the bottom of the lake you then recover about half a meter, lock the rod, and wait. Not very difficult is it? Now you do it”.

And so I followed the same steps I had seen him do, drilling the hole in the ice, then grabbing the rod, placing the bait, sinking the line into the water and recovering about half a meter when it reached the bottom. So far so good, all I had to do now was to wait for a fish to swim by and bite.

But it never happenned. We were ther for about 45 minutes more, speaking about his life in Lapland and  Finland and the outdoor activities to enjoy, as well as some techinques on ice fishing. As seasoned pros we switched locations 3 times within the next hour and a half, and just five minutes before the time over horn blast at 4 pm a fish bit- but not our line, that of a lady who had decided to place herself just 5 meters from us. I’m not sure if I was happy for her or jealous thinking that would she not be there it could have bit my line. Imagine that, a first timer getting a good catch!

Waiting for the valued catch

With the ice fishing contest over all participants headed to the podium area, where the catches were to be weighed and trophies given. I learned there that the catch of the day weighed a whopping 2.3 kg (around 4.7 lbs), second place weighed 1.6 and the rest were in the 400- 600 gram range. There were several categories in the contest depending on age and gender, but if there were a few things that stood out to me were  that most participants were not particularly young, about half of them (if not more) were solo females, and that the Finnish eat their hot dogs without bread. It was then that I noticed quite a few of the particpants muching the sausages while smoking, another habit that I found surprising considering the natural environment these people live in.

Locals getting together after the contest

Ice fishers are an interesting community of outdoor lifestyle lovers who see the sport as an opportunity of socializing with like minded people; after all there are not many who enjoy sitting on ice at sub zero temperatures waiting for a fish to bit…assuming it ever does!

Happy about having tried ice fishing, dissapointed about not having won anything, I followed Micca back to the car thinking about what it could have been but never was. But it was right then that out of the corner of my eye I saw the frozen lake and hundreds of birtch trees that conform these forests of the Finish Lapland, and came to the realization that ice fishing is not all about bringing a fresh catch home but about being part of the magical environment this part of Finland is proud to have, and if only for a few hours, I had been luck enough to be part of it.

Have you ever been in the Finnish Lapland? Tried ice fishing? Did you like it? Were you lucky? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below, and this post too if you like it!

This experience was possible thanks to VisitFinland as part of a fam trip covering the area. This article and favorable review of it were not required, remaining as always my own.

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What Is There to Do in Malta?

Situated in the Mediterranean Sea, the Maltese Islands are some of the most beautiful of their kind in Europe. This relatively small country has so much to offer that even the most experienced travelers will need to prioritize what they see and do if their time is limited; whether it’s the numerous beautiful beaches, the multicultural historic architecture, diverse water and land based activities, the museums  or purely sightseeing Malta offers something for everyone.

Learning English in Malta

One of the most famous highlights of the country is the so called Azure Window. Over time, the waves have shaped the rock by crashing against the cliffs and have slowly formed this stunning, window-like natural arch. The best views are to be found on Dwerja Point, a short distance by ferry from Gozo.

Next on the “to do” list is visiting a few of the numerous beautiful beaches which surround the island. From hidden, deserted, natural beaches to typical tourist beaches – Malta has it all. So, it’s definitely worth planning some time to sunbathe and enjoy the refreshing, crystal-clear water. A little tip: the best beaches, such as Paradise Bay and Mellieha are to be found in the North of the island.

It is Malta’s crystal-clear water which makes the island one of the best places in the world to go scuba-diving and snorkeling.  Whether you’re a complete beginner, intermediate or advanced diver, diving into the island’s breathtaking underwater world and exploring the diverse and colourful scenery is an unforgettable experience.

Back on dry land head to Marsaxlokk where another unique experience is waiting – this time, a culinary one. As an island, seafood is one of Malta’s delicacies. The authentic local fish market on the seafront of this traditional fishing village offers many different kinds of fresh fish and seafood at very affordable rates.

Beautiful bay in Malta

For those who want to travel back in time and experience the island’s rich history, the city of Mdina comes highly recommended. Known as the Silent City, its narrow cobbled streets and charming houses give the impression of wandering through medieval times and make Mdina one of the most traditional and fascinating cities in Malta. For something a little more hands-on why not stop off at the city’s glass factory and have a go at glass-blowing and experience first-hand what a medieval job was like?

Further insight into the island’s fascinating history is learned by a visit to the ancient temples of  Hagar Qim, Mnajdra and the Tarxien Temples. Away from the islands’ history, their local cultures and traditions can be experienced during each village’s ‘festa’. Deeply rooted in Maltese culture, a village’s ‘festa’ celebrates its own patron saint; residents decorate the streets and indulge in good food and drink before the climax of the evening – the fireworks display. This is followed by a trip to a local nightclub, usually in Peaceville, and dancing until the early hours of the morning. The following day sees a mass and parade through the streets.

Why Choose to Learn English in Malta?

English is the second official language of Malta so communication with the islanders and integration into Maltese culture is extremely convenient; finding out about Malta, its culture and its people is made so much easier as an English speaker! All the more reason, therefore, to take the opportunity to improve your English skills as well as enjoying an unforgettable holiday.

Language learners are guaranteed success on Malta, not only as it is a formerly bi-lingual British colony, but also due to the fact that most language schools are regulated by the EFL Monitoring Board, ensuring quality is maintained throughout language teaching. Here, the English language school Maltalingua is not only one of them but also offers outstanding quality of teachers, course content and is well situated not far from the beach in the beautiful city St. Julian’s.

English study group

So you’ve decided on an English language course on the sun-kissed, history-rich island of Malta, why choose Maltalingua for your course? Maltalingua’s language school is representative of the island of Malta – situated in a historic building but having recently been renovated and modernized welcoming English learners from all over the world. Their teachers are all highly qualified and the language school is British run making Maltalingua’s English language courses an extremely attractive option on your route to learning English – whatever your specific goals. Maltalingua’s team of highly professional English teachers all have an accredited qualification in teaching English as a foreign language, e.g. a TEFL certificate, CELTA or DELTA which guarantees that the level of teaching is consistently high through all English language courses.  In addition to the high quality of teaching you will find at Maltalingua, the school is also ideally located in the heart of Malta overlooking the beautiful and lively St. Julian’s Bay.

If you prefer something a little more relaxing outside of your lessons, the school also has a private swimming pool and roof terrace and a chill out room available to all of Maltalingua’s students. Staff at the language school offer not only quality language courses but also actively encourage students to explore the island during their stay offering many trips and excursions around Malta and beyond. Still not convinced that Maltalingua is the language school for you? With language courses specifically tailored to your needs including junior courses, business English classes or IELTS preparation, modern, fully air-conditioned classrooms, a language school in the heart of a picturesque, historical island, what more could you ask for? All of this is available at an extremely competitive price with no agency fees and no booking fees; you really do get what you pay for and more with a Maltalingua language course.

For more information check:

To learn more about the island of Malta; what to see and do during your visit, read more about the history of the island or just explore the island online before your visit, go to the Visit Malta website: http://www.visitmalta.com

To find out more about the Malta’s weather and climate: http://www.maltaweather.com/climate.shtml

www.maltalingua.com

e-mail: enquiries@maltalingua.com

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Why Did I Choose the Deuter 80+10?

Since I first began backpacking around the world in 2001 I’ve been using my Eagle Creek Grand Voyager backpack, a large 90L backpack with a daypack that has been with me in 5 continents and more than 50 countries. I’m actually surprised that the backpack has been with me for so long, but the time to get a new one has come. I could still use it a bit longer, but while most of the zippers are working and so is the backpack in general the inner lining is falling apart, getting my clothes and gear dirty.

As I was familiar with Eagle Creek and their products my first idea was to buy their updated model of the Grand Voyager. I learned however that the current model is the second one that has been released since I bought mine, and surprisingly it has less features and few improvements than their previous one. Looking around for another alternative I discovered the Deuter 80+10, and while it is a little bit on the heavy side it did appear to be a better end product for the same price.

The Deuter Traveller 80+10

Starting this week my new travel companion will be the Deuter Traveler 80+10, a large backpack with a daypack that of course has all the features a good backpack should have and I always look for, including:

• Lockable zippers
• Has a daypack
• It is front load
• Has compartments to organize my stuff
• Adjustable back straps

This model in particular has a few features the other did not have, including and expandable main area and a shoulder strap; while the first is one that I will certainly use I don’t expect to use the shoulder strap too often. And  just yesterday I found out that the daypack is large enough to fit my Nikon D90 DSLR and other photography gear, allowing me to leave behind the other camera backpack I have been traveling with  and making my trip much more comfortable.

Unfortunately not all is beautiful with the Deuter 80+10, as it is a bit heavy, weighing 7 lbs 10 oz or 3.5 kg. This extra weight could be a problem as it limits what you can carry when flying in places such as South East Asia where only 20 km of checked in luggage are  allowed. In any case, watch the video review below for an in-depth look into this backpack (email subscribers can watch the video here)

Was this review useful for you? What backpack do you use? Do you prefer small or large backpacks? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below and this post too if you think others might find it useful!

I would like to thank DeuterUSA  for sending me the Deuter 80+10 backpack  after contacting them about this review.

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Getting to Taman Negara

To get to Taman Negara from Kuala Lumpur get a bus to Jerantut (19 MR), then a share a taxi to the jetty (5MR) and after cruise in a small powerboat all the way to Kuala Tahan (35 MR). Bring plenty of water, sun protection and have your camera poised as you drift down a brown murky river that finds its way through a dense jungle home to water buffalos and who knows what else. The 3.5 hour trip is everything but boring, and by the time you wonder how much further you will go you have reached Kuala Tahan and the park.

Taman Mara and the river

Kuala Tahan, the Gateway to Taman Negara

This small riverside village is somewhat dull at first glance and finding OK accommodation takes a while, but soon after its easy mood and friendly charm make you feel like one more villager. I have nor particular recommendations for sleeping options if you’re on a budget, as what you can get will largely depend on availability. Regarding food it is quite good and cheap, and of all places I do recommend the riverboat restaurant, particularly for dinner when the sun sets. It might not have much luxury but the sound of the water flowing around you makes the meal delightful.

Fried rice with chicken gave us the energy to join a night trek in the jungle, time during which animal viewing is supposed to be the best. Two hours later we were back in the restaurant and had seen nothing but a millipede, a scorpion, walking sticks and 2 deer in the distance. This said the sounds of the jungle are overwhelming to the ear and I do recommend the trek if only for this.

Stick insect seen during the night trek

Trekking in Taman Negara

On day 2 we did the canopy walk that offers nice views of the jungle at tree top heights and after made our way to the top of Teresek mountain to enjoy great views. The walk is no easy task, requiring some leg strength, good lungs and heaps of water to replace what is lost from the sweat.

At the top we met Johan and Lieve, a friendly Belgian couple that was having a hard time keeping the flies away from their faces, just as we were. Easy talking let to friendship and we all trekked the 2 hours back together, explored a nearby sinkhole and when done quenched our thirst in a restaurant boat. It was there that Johan told us that while pulling his feet out of a pond he found three leeches sucking his blood!

At the canopy walk

There are several trekking opportunities and tours in Taman Negara, with prices varying with duration and time of the year (remember that during monsoon season lasts from November to March, and tours may not be available).

• The short 2 hour night tour
• Day tours
• 3 day inner jungle tours
• 9 day tours, in which you’ll walk deep into the rainforest and will have more opportunities of seeing large animals.

Butterflies in Taman Negara

Is Taman Negara Worth Visiting?

My overall impression is that although we did not see any large animals and that was the main reason for going there, I would certainly go back. I enjoyed the treks, the dinners in the restaurant boats and the impressive sounds of the jungle. If you also consider the cheap costs or decide to participate in other activities that are offered (there are 9 day jungle walking treks, elevated hides for night animal observation, night drives…) then the decision is quite simple, bearing in mind that to see big animal you will need some luck. But then nature always runs on its own course, right?

Resources

Malaysia Department of Wildlife and Natural Parks http://www.wildlife.gov.my/index.php?lang=en

Official website of Tourism Malaysia http://www.tourism.gov.my/en/intl

Have you visited Taman Negara? Where in the world have you enjoyed your best trek? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below and this post if you liked it!

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Photo @ Flickr by Ed Yourdon

How to Improve Your Hotel Internet Connection Speed and Range

While the hotel’s internet setup is crucial for getting the best speed available, there are a few things you can do to improve your hotel internet connection when what’s being delivered is a far cry from reality. Let’s look at several things you can do to make the most out of your situation.

Plug the Computer

When running on its battery laptops slightly cut the energy supply to the resources that require most power. You will notice this when the screen becomes slightly darker, but it is not only there that the laptop is saving some energy. By plugging it in you might get the extra boost of energy that could well be enough for you to be able to do what you want to do quicker.

Go for a Walk

No, I don’t mean head to streets to do some sightseeing hoping that the hotel internet connection speed has picked up while you’re out and about, I mean with your computer. Walking around the room, down the hallways or to the lobby will at some point get you closer to where the router is, hence improving the connection dramatically. Sure, this is not the most convenient way, but if you don’t mind working at the lobby or in some unusual spot in the hotel it certainly is the fastest. Tools like Heatmapper  (Windows) or Netspot (Mac) can show you via a heatmap locations where the internet connection should be stronger and JiWire  is perhaps the largest guide to hotspots worldwide. It may even help you by pointing out a nearby hotel that has free internet access where you’ll be able to work at comfortable at the lobby. For free.

Buy a USB Wireless or Long Range Antenna

I have one of the first, and they certainly do make a difference. Costing 10-50 USD they can improve the signal a bit or a lot (specially the long range antennas), depending on the model you buy. They take up little space but they do use more power than your internal antenna, so again remember to plug your laptop. Usually this is the most convenient way to boost the signal and be able to work online from the comfort of your room. There are lot’s f models for the USB, but as for the long range antennas the Alfa AWUS036NH (2000mW) is apparently one of the best out there and may become another of those essential things to carry in a backpack  when traveling.

My Acer Aspire One with a wireless USB antenna

Connect to Hidden Wireless Networks

This might not be as applicable in your hotel room, but if at an airport, train station or bus terminal you could find one of these that companies provide to their workers without encrypting the signal and but simply hiding the public name. Asking around won’t probably help you much, but Netslumber  (Windows) and Kismac (Mac)  can uncover those hidden gems that might be around.

Convert Your Laptop Into a WiFi Signal Predator

On some computers it is possible to alter the amount of power devoted to the network adapter and make other changes such as altering the aggressiveness of the card’s search efforts of finding wireless signals. For Windows PCs, click “Start,” “Control Panel,” “Administrative Tools,” “Computer Management,” “Device Manager,” then find your wireless card in the list of devices; right-click on it and choose “Properties.” Click the “Advanced” tab,” set “Transmit Power” to “Highest,” set “Roaming Aggressiveness” to “Highest,” and click “OK.”

Convert Your Computer Into the Ultimate WiFi Signal Predator

This might me a little trickier but those of you who’re into technical stuff might find DD-WRT the ultimate tool to transform your router into the definitive signal predator by changing the router’s installed firmware from the under-performing manufacturer’s to the increasingly popular DD-WRT open source firmware. I have not tried it myself but from what I’ve heard it does wonders and may be the definitive push for the best hotel internet connection speed.

Do you have any tricks you’d like to share with us? Product recommendations? Please share them with us in the comments section below, and this post too if you likes it or think others might find it useful!

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Visiting Spain

There are many ways to discover Spain. You can do so through the many scenic and gastronomic experiences the county has to offer:  attend a soccer game in Madrid, visit the beautiful Canary Islands and check out the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia. Tapas tours, especially in Granada or Seville are a wonderful excursion full of gastronomic delight for the food lover in all of us. If high end dining is more your style, you will be pleased to know that the Spain’s restaurant industry has more Michelin stars than any other country, one of the highest culinary honors that can be awarded.

If you would prefer a more educational experience, touring the many famous historical routes of Spain will be an adventure you will find ever so intriguing. Choose from the Silver Route, the Paths of Sepharad or the Way of St James and many more! Why not try to learn some Spanish while visiting Spain? Spain is a country full of history, so there is no shortage of monuments and cathedrals to visit. Squeeze in a peek at the Basilica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Familia which is expected to be the tallest church in Spain once it is finished or the Seville Cathedral which is the largest gothic cathedral in the world and the fourth largest church in the world. If you have time, stop by the Palacio Real de Madrid (Royal Palace of Madrid)- it is really quite a sight.

Planning an international trip is overwhelming for anyone, that’s why having the chance to web chat with travel professionals that specialize in Spanish tourism can really help make the task easier. Find out which excursions you really connect with and which cities suit you most to customize your trip solely to your personality.

Conexion Spain Virtual Trade Show

Registration is free and you have the luxury of all this information and over 40 different vendors readily at your fingertips and from the comfort of your own home.  For your convenience, the show is open for 48 hours straight starting at 12am EST April 10th. There are also many amazing prizes to be won including 2 grand prize round trip vacations to Spain leaving from New York and Toronto, worth over $4000 each.  There are also many multi city vacations, allowing you to experience the wonders of everywhere from Zaragoza, Seville, golfing in the Murcia Region, Marbella, Barcelona , Madrid and more! To register or to check out the prizes, click here to visit the Conexion Spain Virtual Trade Show website.

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