Rio de Janeiro - The marvelous city

One of my wildest and earliest dreams as a kid was to visit  Brasil. I remember watching the carnival in awe on TV. It didn't help being a big fan of brasilian football- who really isn't!?
I imagined myself playing football on the beach in Copa cabana, dancing happily in a Michael Jackson video or sitting carefree on the Selaron Steps after watching the Snoop and Pharrell Video.It was just a matter of time till destiny finally paved a way .

Rio fascinates with its extraordinary Landscape. It's a perfect unique mix between tropical mountains and the sea. Rio is modern and traditional, open and conservative all at the same time. Rio polarises, makes you fall in love with her and never want to leave.
Rio represents the complex mixture of different cultures and backgrounds in Brasil. It's after all the second largest city in Brasil. If you plan to visit Brasil for the first time or oly have a few days in Brasil, I would definitely recommend Rio as a first stop.
I had the time of life in Rio and I would like to share a few must-sees or activities to do, alone or with friends.

Christo Redentor
Chris the Redeemer is one of THE symbols of Rio.

The welcoming Jesus stands on top of the Corcovado Mountain. It can be seen form almost every part of Rio.You can get there by Bus or by Mini Vans. The easiest, definitely most fun and adventurous way is to get there via the Tram-Train.

You can get a Caipirinha at the Trainstation while waiting for the Train (it departs every 30minutes). Close to the tram Station is a cute little Café&Bistro- Folie a deux, i had one th best coffees in my life there. Definitely try the cookies,you won't regret it!
The view from the Christo is one of the most breathtaking in Rio. It's definetly worth the ride.
The Christo is  definitely a popular touristic site in Rio, so try to get there early in the morning to avoid masses of Tourists. There is a numerous amount of restaurants around the area for lunch breaks.

Copacabana

The iconic Copacabana is known  for it's breathtaking Beach, Bars, Nightclubs and High Class Hotels. Copacapana is trendy and most known among tourists.The most popular activity is to just hang out on the beach, sunbathe, Play Volleyball and eat till you drop dead. Coconuts and Caipirinhas are always available to keep you hydrated. There are numerous small coffee shops and cute boutiques around the promenade where you can buy/rent Surfing gear.

If you get tired of the beach activies,sunbathing and eating/drinking(this practically never happens) you can hike to Morrode Leme and enjoy the sunset.

Ipanema
Trendy with a much younger crowd. Ipanema has defintely more of a chilled vibe compared to Copacabana. You can go jogging on the beach at any time. Its amazing how many different kind of people you meet on the beach on early hours doing all kind of Sport activities. Ipanema, is in my opinion the place to stay in Rio. The neighbourhood is quite exclusive, the beach is beautiful and you can practice fishing or Surfing without any one questioning your motives. Safety is a big issue in Brasil,so its important to know where you can visit at particular hours without having to worry about thefts or hijacks- if you stick to particular areas you wouldn't have any problems.

There is tremendous amount of cheap, chic and expensive places to eat. The night life is quite diverse. You will always find a place to have fun nomatter what sexual orinetation, social/financial status or music preferences you have.
If you happen to be there on a sunday, take a look at the "Hippie Fair" to buy some souvenirs for friends and family back home.

Sugar Loaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar)
Another breathtaking spot for a panormic view of  Rio! The safest way to get there is via the Cable Car, with the first stop being the peak of the Urca Mountain. Here you can just gaze at the peaceful Guanabara Bay.

Another way is by literally ascending the Sugar Loaf Mountain- I am definitly too much of a coward to try this but if you are looking for more adventurous events-why not!
Rio has many jaw-droping panoramas but being on the Sugar Loaf mountain was definitely one of my favorites. From here you can quitely absorb the magic and dynamics of the city.

Lapa/Santa Teresa

Access the vibrant Santa Teresa via the famous mosaic stairways and enjoy the area with numerous artwork and musicians. The adjacent  Lapa is well known for its night life. Lapa is the bohemian hot spot of Rio. Here you rub shoulders with fashionistas, foodies, artist, singers and bon-vivants. The street art and the architecture is pretty impressive. I would recommend you to take your time here, try the street food,talk to the people.Learn about the culture and the history of Rio.

Museum of tomorrow

This is a definitely a modern, futuristic and interactiv different approach to climate change and the preservation of of our planet. The Museum itself is a piece of art.

Watching the sunset  from the Museum is definetly an additional Highlight. The sourrounding Harbor area is worth a visit.

After the Museum, you can go for a bite at the Restorante Maua on top of the Museum of Arts(MAM).The view from the terrace is definitely worth the stay.

They say travelling leaves you speechless ,then turns you into a Story teller. Rio was definitely one of my favourite fairy tales.

I hope you enjoyed the post


Arlette

A short Trip to Prague

Prague was on my bucket list of european cities to visit for a long time. Not only does Prague have one of the most intriguing histories in Europe, the well preserved archictecture and the culture makes this city one of the ultimate destinations.

Prague offers a variety of activities for each and every demographic: travelling couples, groups on a Bachelor-/rette trip, solo travellers or singles who are ready to mingle. Prague can also be visited in all seasons. Another reason to visit Prag is the still afforadble prices despite the overwhelmingly rising number of tourists per year.

If you are are planning a short visit to prague,there are definitely some few essentials you have to check out.

View From La Marina Ristorante 

The main sight seeing Areas are around the Charles Bridge, which connects the Prague Castle(Castle District)  and the Old town.

Prague Castle District

The Pargue Castle is located on Vltava's left bank. One of the best  ways to access the Prague Castle is via the Castle Stairs(Close to the Metro Station Malostranská ). Most of the Castle and it's numerous mueseums and gardens  are opened to tourists.

The Old town 

I am a huge fan of walking city tours.Its one of the easiest and cheapest ways to discover a city.I booked a a free Walking Tour on the Sandeman's Free Walking Tour Website. Castle Tours and Beer Tours can equally be booked on the website or on site during the tours. Most of the cultural attractions are in the well preserved Old town . This is mainly because Prague suffered less damages during World War II than other european countries.

The main sites are  the ominent and picturesque Charles Bridge.  The Charles Bridge is one of the main Tourist attractions in Prague, implying you literally have to "fight" your way through in order to get an adequate view of this great architectural wonder. I would recommend to visit the Bridge quite early in the morning or at dawn. There are less tourists and the view is definitely worth it.  You can access the Bridge towers on both sides of the Bridge for a better view. Before or after visiting the jewish quarter, you should definitely pay the Marina Ristorante a visit. The excuisite cuisine and the picturesque view on the Charles Bridge is worth  the stay.

The significant Old square with the Prague astronomical Clock is only a few minutes stroll from the Charles Bridge . Opposite the the astronomical clock ist the old Hall. The view form the tower of the olf town Hall is simply breathtaking. There is variety of Pubs,Bars and Restaurants around the Old town square. From here ,you can go on on a walk and discover the sorroundings. The Venue is a precious modern germ pefect for a coffee break on your Old town journey.

Jewish Quarter (Josefov)

The Jewish Museum provides an insigt in the the history of the Prags jewish community. Some Tours offer a 2-3 hour walk aorund the jewish neighbourhood with visits to the cemetry and to some few famous synagogues. Most tours are also centered  around the famous  jewish author Franz Kafka.

Beer, Beer and more Beer

The Beer scene in Prague is one of the finest and a paradise for beer lovers. There is trendous amout of beer discovering to do at a really affordable cost. Even if you're not a Beer fan, there will definitely be something suitable to your taste. There are numerous ways of Beer tasting. The easiest way is to start at a local Pub and get used to the local usual Kind of beers. Another way is to  check out a local brewery or a Beer bar. Another fun way is to go on  Pub Crawl Tour or a  Beer tasting tour. Ist ideal for single travellers or groups to meet new People.
There are nuemrous diverse establishments you can book from depending on your preferences and your financial disposition.



Nightlife

The night life in Prague will exceed what you might have heard of-Pubs,Clubs,Jazzclubs,Strip Clubs, Coctail bars...There is enough for every one at everty time . If you're new to drinking or partying in a foreign City, you better stick to the old town. For something more elegant, try Cloud 9 or Bar and Books, Groovebar. Prag is the City for all Budgets. It's guaranteed to find something suitable, plus everything is possible with a few glasses of beer.


I hope you enjoyed the post


Arlette

The very first solo Trip- Cuba,Trinidad

Here we go again Children of the Sun- I saved the best for the end of the cuba Trilogy.


After my very brief stay in Vinales, I finally moved to the wonderful City of Trinidad.
Trinidad earned its listing as a UNESCO Worl heritage site for numerous reasons. The architecture is amazing, it feels like Walking on a movie set. The scenry is breathtaking  and the beaches are just one of a Kind. Ofcourse the history and myths sorrounding the City adds another reason,why you absolutely have to visit Trinidad. Trinidad is definitely my favourite City in Cuba.

There are numerous amazing things you can do in Trinidad
My favourites and musts are:


Plaza Major

You can't miss the main Meeting Point in Trinidad. Here is also the Casa de la musica where most of the  night life starts. You can go to all the touristic spots from here. You definitely have to watch the sunset here, plus it's also a WiFi-Hotspot. There are cheap Cocktail spots all around the place. You can take amazing Picture from here. If you're travelling alone, the plaza Major is one of the easiest places to meet new People.In the evening you can watch or/and listen to the cuban local band for 2CUCs in the Casa de la musica. From here you can just walk around the City and get lost.From here you can reach the San Francisco Tower, that dominates most of Trinidad.The view is gorgeous.  Most casas in Trinidad have Balconies with a beautiful view of the City,so don't worry if you can't get to the top of the tower.

Art Galeries

Ist doesn't matter if you are a Art Connaiseur or just a kitsch Lover. You will definitely make good deals in Trinidad.The City is full of Galeries and cool stores to spend money.

Horseback Riding

You can ride or hike to the Javira waterfalls, with stops on the numerous sugarcane frams or coffee planations. There are cliffs on the Waterfalls you can jump from to cool off or you can swim through the cave Systems.

Workshops

You definitely have to try a Salsa Workshop. If you're a shy person (like me) request a private session. If you're not interested in dancing, maybe a Photography Session could work for you. Trinidad is definitely one of the most picturesque Cities I have been to. You can sign up for classes at Casa de la cultura.

Beachlife

The Ancon beach with White sand is 15 minutes away from Trinidad with a Taxi for 10 CUCS. You can also get there with a bike. The sunrise and sunset here is breathtaking. If you like fishing or just chilling on your own, La Boca is the place to be. You can also cycle there. Go to Cayo Blanco for snorkeling or diving.

Architecture Museum

Learn more about the history and architecture of Trinidad and the influence of Slave Trade and Sugar production the City. They also offer guided Walking tours

Entertainment/Night Life:

The night Scene in Trinidad is a busy one. Fom Bars, Cabarets and Cafes,the competition is high.One of the most amazing experiences I had was in the Disco Ayala- La Cueva-The Cave. This Club is literally in a huge Cave, with bats ,stalagmites and shit. It's quite a unique experience, the Music is a mix of latin,pop and tecno. It's easy to find, just follow the mass from the Plaza Major from  9p.m. The are numerous Cocktail-Stops on the way up the hill,just in case you were worried to run out of Rum...Worst case scenario in Cuba!

A more local spot was the La Bomba. The scene is mostly local young cubans, few tourists.I wanted to try my new salsa-moves but I changed my mind after watching the cuban youth doing simple stances.
There are numerous "Clubs" around the Plaza Major, you don't have to dance. You can just have a drink or watch others.

Food

After a week of beans and Rice, it was a welcoming surprise to find the vast amounts of restaurants with differnt varieties of Food. You definitely have to try the Lobster and Planatins, it doesn't matter where you choose to eat, you'll always find something.
My Top 3

-La Redaccion - a unique setting with a apretty courtyard. Former home to the Newspapar "El Liberal"

.Jazz Cafe- Buffet and amazing life Music with great voices
.La taberna la botija -with amazing live music


Daytrips

If you get tired of Trinidad-which is practically impossible. You can still go for day trips in the Region. You can go to the beeaches listed above or take trips to Santa Clara or Cienfuegos with a taxi at a reasonable rate. If you have time, defintely visit Las Terrazas. It is a self substainable Biosphere Resrvewith a beautiful natural swimmingpools. You can get there from Havanna or from Trinidad.There is also a Train into the Valley- if you are really really bored,go for it.


I hope  you enjoyed the post,
Arlette

The very first solo Trip- Cuba: Vinales

Hello Children of the Sun,


I could have stayed in Havanna forever but I wanted to see more of the Island. My plan to take a flight to Santiago the Cuba was a total fiasco. How stupid I felt when I found out contrary to Thailand where you could buy a cheap Inland flight on your mobile phone, things didn't work at all like that in Cuba. First, you only get WiFi at Special Hotspots,mostly around big Hotels, Restaurants or Parcs. In order to access these Hotspots you need a Card (1hour-1,5CUC) you get officially from ETECSA,the cuban  telecommunication Office- Patience is the Keyword here or on the "black market" for twice the price. So with no available flight I decided to change my itinary. I opted for Vinales,because most people I  met praised the landscape, the nature and the activities you could do there. Getting to Valle Vinales from Havanna is easy, you can book a Taxi collectivo at your casa or Hotel for only 20CUC directly to your new casa in Vinales.

Vinales is a  really small city and full of tourists.  You can practically do everything form the main street, so the first thing I did as soon as I got threre was walk through the city.Casas are always available.If you like hiking, Biking and horseback riding, then Vinales is the place to be. The region around Vinales is mostly protected national parc, so ist amazing if you like exploring and discovering nature.There is a numerous amount of agencies offering different tours at different Prices, so take your time and Chose wisely.

I booked a horseback riding tour for 20 CUCS. Depending on where and when you book the tour,you could either be on your own or in a group of interesting funny people- I was in the later(another gift from the Gods)The tour consisted of a 5 hour trip around the Vinales Valley with a stop at a tobacco plantation where you could learn about the production of Cigars. You definitely need to try the nicotinfree organic Cigars. You could also buy some Souvenirs at the plantations for a really cheap Price.The next stop was a "coffee plantation"- I've been to coffee plantations before and that was definitely not a coffee plantation, but what do Tourist really know? (just saying!).We got to learn about the production of Rum and guess what... you get to try the Rum! Here I had the best Sugarcane Juice in my whole life. Maybe it was the Rum or maybe I was just happy to get of a horse after 4 hours of riding through the Valley.

The last stop was at lake where you could go for a swim or just relax. Other tours offer a visit to a cave with underground lakes/Indian caves. Ask your tourguide about this before starting the tour.
I met with my newly found friend for dinner afterwards. I was amazed how the main street changed. You have amazing restaurants you can eat at for relatively affordable Prices. The Cocktails, the Pina coladas in particular are amazing!

Another great surprise was the Centro culturo Polo Montanez. Entrance Fee: incredible 1CUC. The live Music and the live Shows are amazing. Plus the Cocktails are really cheap and tasty. If you have enough Cocktails,you can join the locals dancing or just watch until you get confident enough to join.

The very first solo Trip- Cuba, the ideal destination

I don't know about you guys but when you tell anyone you plan to travel alone,they make the craziest assumptions- are you going through  something? Did you quit your Job? Don't you have any friends? Are you sure?  I always wanted to try different things my friends or Partner were not into, so i used to just give up. But things changed at some point, the answer became clear.I decided to what i really want, because why not? Life is short!


So, I started planning. I started to talk to people who had travelled alone. Most said for beginners, for a young black solo female traveller, I should probably start with Cuba or Southeast Asia. I had been to Thailand before and I wanted to try something new, so Cuba made the cut. I booked the flight , without really thinking too much, and I tried not to get scared by the fact that I don't speak any spanisch and that I was never really on my own. A friend of mine adviced me not to to book anything in advance because travelling alone means flexibility and freedom. And there I was, at the Airport with my Backpack, my Flight ticket in my Hand, no accomodation and this bitter sweet feeling I had when I left home for the first time.

So here am I boarding the plane and the pace of my heart beat increases, because now I notice people in groups, with Partnersno one alone. And here I am thinking ''what if this wasn't such a good idea, what if something happens to me, what if i find no one I can talk to or share this experience with?'' Maybe I should have been more careful and booked some few nights in a Hotel. So all in all I started panicking. But exactly at this moment comes this girl over and asks if I am travelling alone and if she could be my travelbuddy for the next hours or maybe days. Just like that, things changed. We talked about our common fears and hopes about this trip and she offered me to stop at her  Casa and find out if they available rooms for the night.

The flight was Swift, directly to Havanna with Airberlin and with some extra Legspace for free (a well appreciated gift from the Gods). If you travel from Germany, you can get a Visa/Touristcard at all airports for 25Euros. My new travelbuddy had everything planed an mapped out (contrary to me). I learned about the 2 Currencies in Cuba. The Pesos convertible (CUC) for the non-cubans and the Cuban Pesos (CUP) for Cuban natives. 1Eur=1CUC=24CUP
We shared a Cab for 25 CUC from the airport to her Casa/Hostel in Vedado, Havannas modern neighborhood. After a quick chat with the owner, I decided I could stay there for one night. I also found out, I had planned my trip in the middle of the high season in Cuba (March-August), so the prices were up and the demand for good Casas was high. Verdado is a quiet, modern neighborhood, close to the Malecon and the University of Havanna. A walk along the Malecon is obligatory.

I was yearning for anything other than quiet and peace, so the next day I packed my belongings and moved to Havanna Vieja, Havanna's Old city. With the help of some locals, I quickly found a lovely Casa I was comfortable with. It seems to work this way in Cuba, where the people are friendly, warm and always ready to help. After checking in I decided to go discover the City. Everything in Cuba is negotiable. And so the adventure began... 

Havanna was a blast: The dynamic, the energy of the City - just amazing. Networking is easy. Maybe it's the weather, maybe the Music (probably just the Cocktails).

With the local cuban currency, you can eat real, tatsy, cuban food in side bars, where you can get a dish with rice, beans and chicken-/pork for 24 CUPS. You can actually get everywhere in Havanna
for a maximum of 4 CUCs.

An easy, friendly and cheap way to discover the city is with one of the numerous Free Walking tours. I spent most of my time purposely getting lost and discovering new parts of the cities. The cuban night life is one of a kind. If you love Dancing , live music or just watching people being happy, Havanna is the place to be.
One of my favourite highlights was the Fabrica de Arte Cubana, a place of Art, live Music, Theater, Ballet (and Cocktails of course). You absolutely need to check it out. The public is kind of mixed. Young and old Cubans, Non-Cubans. It's only open from Thursdays to Sundays. Entry costs only 2CUCS, Cocktail for around 4CUCS.

I had the most breathtaking view of the Old city of Havanna from the El Christo de la Habana. It is a spot opposite to the Old-City Bay. You can reach the place by taxi or by Ferry, which is probably the most interesting of the two.

Another way to discover the City is via a  guided Taxi-Tour. Prices, length of the Tour and locations vary, depending on where you book. The main stops are the Plaza de la Revoluzion , Varadero, Miramar and of course the Malecon.