For example, an American saying, “spill the beans” could potentially be taken literally by a Brit, thinking they actually spilled beans on the floor (the American saying means to tell a secret.)

What is the history behind these local sayings? What are the contexts these expressions are used in? We decided to take a closer look at 15 funny and witty local sayings from around the world:

1. “To pace around hot porridge like a cat”

Country: Finland and Sweden

Meaning: Someone is not being direct, they are not saying what they want to say

History: Unclear. Both Finland and Sweden are quite vocal about any issues they have in public but prefer to be less open in their private lives.

2. “Not my circus, not my monkey”

Country: Poland

Meaning: The issue at hand is not my problem

Context: A friend comes to you with an idea and you warn them not to go ahead with the idea. They don’t listen to your advice and continue anyway. They then want help cleaning up the mess they made, but you tell them, “not my circus, not my monkey.”

3. “A hungry stomach has no ears”

Country: France

Meaning: When someone is hungry, there is no point talking with them because they won’t listen

History: The saying was made popular by the famous French poet, Jean de La Fontaine. This saying has been translated and is now used in various English-speaking countries as well.

4. “The devil always takes back his gifts”

Country: Ukraine

Meaning: Enjoy the moment, nothing lasts forever

History: The saying was often said on St. Nicholas Day, which used to be celebrated over Christmas in Ukraine. The day was made for gift giving and the saying was told to many children to help them feel grateful for the gifts they received.

5. “To have a stick in your ear”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by ANDREA „TWM“ (@twinwinmommy) on Oct 22, 2018 at 11:49pm PDT

Country: Denmark

Meaning: To not listen to someone

History: The expression is popular in Denmark and used to be popular around the 1970’s in English. It is now considered rude to say to someone in English.

6. “To ride as a hare”

Country: Russia

Meaning: To travel for free without buying a ticket

History: Russia is a massive country and train travel has always been a cheap way to travel from one end to the other. The saying came about from paying passengers noticing that those who did not pay their fare would shake uncontrollably like a hare whenever a ticket inspector would come into the train cars.

7. “Take ears to the field, take eyes to the farm”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Misha Takanashi (@faces.of.anime) on Sep 6, 2018 at 11:30pm PDT

Country: Thailand

Meaning: Don’t pay attention to what is happening

Context: The Thai have come up with clever local sayings for almost any situation, and this is no different. The saying means to try not paying attention to what is happening around you, even though it is almost impossible not to. A saying within a saying.

8. “To push something with your belly”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by IGatti conquisteranno il Mondo (@gatti_conquisteranno_il_mondo) on Oct 18, 2018 at 9:43am PDT

Country: Portugal

Meaning: To ignore a responsibility, a priority

Context: The more you eat, the sleepier you get, and the more likely you are to ignore something you have to do.

9. “Willing to borrow a cat’s paw”

Country: Japan

Meaning: You have too much going on and you are willing to take any help that anyone will offer

History: Cats play a big role in Japanese society and have for over 1,000 years. There are even entire temples and islands dedicated to cats. The Japanese have many sayings that involve cats. Many of the sayings involve good fortune or trying to obtain it.

10. “Buying something for an apple and an egg”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by J-E-J (@lanipsebcn) on Oct 7, 2017 at 4:05am PDT

Country: Netherlands

Meaning: You bought something for very cheap

History: In Dutch society, it is frowned upon to show off your wealth. The Dutch prefer simplicity and efficiency. Discussing one’s salary is considered rude. A better way to talk about a good price is through items that everyone can understand such as apples and eggs.

11. “To slide in on a shrimp sandwich”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Food Lover (@saudimasterchef) on Jun 29, 2016 at 2:24pm PDT

Country: Sweden

Meaning: Someone who did not have to work hard to get where they are

History: In Sweden, shrimp have always been considered an expensive commodity and food for the wealthy. That explains the shrimp part, but it is not entirely clear why this person is sliding in on a sandwich. I guess we’ll never know!

12. “You have tomatoes on your eyes”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Highline Vision Center (@highlinevisioncenter) on Sep 14, 2018 at 10:09am PDT

Country: Germany

Meaning: You are distracted and not seeing what everyone else can already see

Context: You would say this idiom to one of your good friends and try to make them aware of something they’re blind to. It’s a little bit insulting but in a playful way.

13. “I’ll take a rain check”

Country: America

Meaning: Postponing an invitation or offer that someone has put forth to a more convenient time

History: This saying dates back to the 19th Century when ticket holders for canceled baseball games—canceled due to weather—would be given new tickets to the rescheduled game. Several other American sayings originate from the country’s national sport.

14. “Bob’s your uncle!”

Country: England

Meaning: Used as encouragement. Means, “There you go!”

History: In 1887, Britain Prime Minister Robert Gascoyne-Cecil made his nephew, Arthur James Balfour, the Minister of Ireland. In a speech, Balfour referred to his “Uncle Bob” and the saying was born! It somehow stuck and is one of those local sayings still used to this day.

15. “It doesn’t rain on it”

Country: Italy

Meaning: No doubt about it. You won’t change my mind.

Context: Italians love to talk about the weather when making small talk. This is one of many local sayings that involve weather. Using this idiom means one is extremely confident in what they are saying and they cannot be swayed.

Are there any other local sayings from around the world that you know?

Suggested next reading: 5 Crazy & Delicious Foods I Tried While Traveling

The post 15 Awesome Local Sayings From Around The World appeared first on Modern Trekker.

So you pack your best beret, scroll through your phrasebook and gather up your Euros. But it’s always worth remembering that real life does get in the way sometimes and occasionally, just occasionally, things may not turn out exactly as you expected. It doesn’t mean you won’t have a great time though—especially if you prepare yourself by reading our real life vs expectation in Paris list.

1. Speaking French

Expectation:

You have always wanted to learn another language and now you have a wonderful chance to practice all those phrases you learned in school.

“One baguette please, sir”

“It is lovely weather today!”

“Where is the swimming pool?”

It never really leaves you. Soon you’ll be lounging on a wicker chair on a cobbled street, sipping coffee and conversing with the locals as you wave to ladies riding past on bicycles.

Reality:

Despite your best efforts, everyone speaks better English than you speak French. This crushing realization happens when you ask something in French and once again get an answer in English. Paris is used to visitors and most people are ready and willing to speak your language to help you out.

2. Eat amazing food

Expectations:

The French are known around the world for their delectable cuisine. The wine, the cheese, the meat. There’s a reason why everyone who visits France comes back with a much heavier suitcase than when they arrived. A much rounder girth too, but it is your holiday after all.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Paris P@RIS #ThisisParis (@paris)

Reality:

After the millionth rich, creamy and indulgent meal, your belly starts to revolt and your heart starts to burn. All you want is something plain, simple and ashamedly unfussy. You finally admit this yourself as you search for a Subway sandwich shop. You’re just not practiced enough in this rich food….yet.

3. Have a romantic night out

Expectation:

The city of love, Paris is known for its romantic atmosphere. The city of love is a well-earned nickname and when staying there it’s hard not to get swept up in the emotions and feel yourself wanting to go with the flow. So grab another oyster, a small glass of champagne and settle in for a good time.

Reality:

Realistically, how romantic can you feel after a full days sightseeing and a stomach full of indulgent food? Maybe that last macaron was a mistake, but it went so well after the slice of chocolate gateaux that realistically, what else could you have done?

Luckily France is also an excellent place to have a quiet lie down and possibly…very possibly…a small cuddle. Aww.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by M_J (@melle_jones)

4. Embrace the continental greeting

Expectation:

How free and laid back the French are will undoubtedly rub off on you. Kissing strangers to greet them immediately breaks down barriers and you feel at one with the country and its people.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Paris Photographer (@kissinpariscom)

Reality:

Is it one kiss or two? Is it different for men and women? Gaah, don’t get it wrong. The repercussions could be toe itchingly awkward. What’s wrong with a good old-fashioned handshake anyway?

5. Be a fashionista

Expectation:

France equals fashion. As host to Paris fashion week and birthplace of Coco Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent and Christian Dior (to name but a few), this is the place to see and be seen. Finally, you can wear your highest end, trendiest and most fashionable outfits and be appreciated for the fashionista superstar you’ve always known you are.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Jessica | Architetto a spasso (@jessicalovivo)

Reality:

Most French people wear the same as everyone else in the world but annoyingly have an air of grace that makes them carry it off all the better. Even in your best outfit, you still quite can’t get that “Je Ne Sais Quoi” that is born into the people of this fine nation. Nevermind, you still look cute.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Paris Street Styles (@paris_streetstyles)

6. Appreciate French art

Expectation:

Once again France leads the way and boasts a wonderful heritage of world-famous artists. Duchamp, Matisse, Cezanne, Monet. All outstanding visionaries who changed the face of the art world and are celebrated to this day. As a result, it’s capital is brimming with art galleries and famous works.

This means that now is the time to put on those thick-rimmed spectacles, don your best turtleneck sweater and prepare to feed your artistic mind.

Reality:

Turns out lots of visitors go to Paris for the art and you realize this as you stand behind a crowd of people and cameras and peek a quick glimpse at the Mona Lisa. Nevermind, you can always drink a tipple of absinthe at the local bar and relive the experience of many a starving artiste instead.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by deborahlap (@deborahlapebie)

7. Explore Parisian Parks

Expectation:

When people think of Paris they probably think mainly of the architecture, the Lourve, the Arc de Troimphe. All the exciting urban landscapes…

But if they do, they’re missing a trick because tucked away, Paris also has some of the most beautiful parks around. The formal glory of the Jardin Des Tuileries, the flowers at the Parc Floral de Paris. It’s largest, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont even has waterfalls and cliffs to admire. Is there a better way to spend a sunny day?

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Pedro Henrique (@flyer288)

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by PEDRO & PAULI (@moments_of_yugen)

Reality:

These parks may be beautiful, but the local wildlife thinks so too, and you realize that as you reach for another spray of the insect repellent. Still, there aren’t that many more aesthetically pleasing places to get bitten by bugs.

8. Visit the best museums

Expectation:

France is cosmopolitan, cultural, historical and full of learned people. As a result, it prizes it’s museums very highly and it shows. A plethora of learning is available to you, especially in its esteemed capital. What a perfect opportunity to introduce the little ones to the idea that learning can be fun. They’ll be tiny intellectuals before you know it.

Reality:

Turns out children are just as bored by foreign museums as they are by ones at home. Still, all the moaning, running around and stamping of their feet should tire them out nicely and leave you some quiet time to enjoy a nice glass of French wine before bed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Paris Musées (@parismusees)

Despite any slight differences between expectation and reality, you will undoubtedly still have an amazing time in France. We challenge anyone to visit and not fall in love with its cities, parks, people and ethos. Have you ever been? Tell us about your experiences below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Victor Neviere (@victorneviere)

Can you think of any more real life vs expectation in Paris we should add to our list? Feel free to comment below!

Suggested next reading: Italy On Instagram Vs Italy In Real Life

The post Real Life Vs Expectation In Paris appeared first on Modern Trekker.

To be honest, autumn is my favorite time of the year. As I write this piece in the comfort of my Montréal apartment, I can look out and see trees with red and orange leaves. I believe that fall is a time of reflection as most spend more and more time inside to prepare for the long winter days ahead.

Every culture celebrates autumn differently, but here are 10 fall festivals that you can’t miss around the world:

1. Diwali

Taking place on November 7^th, Diwali is one of the most well-known fall festivals in India. The festival is named after the lights that are lit to symbolically shine a light on the spiritual emptiness and darkness that one may feel. It’s an incredibly important holiday for those that practice Hinduism around the world.

It’s an interesting holiday because it is celebrated differently throughout India. In the north of the country, they believe that Diwali symbolizes the story of King Rama’s return after winning a war. The row of lights serving as his helping guide on his return home.

In the south of India, however, they believe that Diwali is the day Krishna bested the demon Narakasura. Diwali is one of those fall festivals that must be experienced in person to truly understand it.

2. Guy Fawkes Night

One of those historical fall festivals that occurs every year, Guy Fawkes night happens on November 5^th and is celebrated in the United Kingdom to honor the foiling of the plot to kill the King.

Guy Fawkes was found with an unusually large quantity of gunpowder and he had detailed plans to kill the King!

Today, you can find many in the UK celebrating with parades in the streets, drinking mulled wine, eating way too much food, and watching fireworks at night. Overall, sounds like a lot of fun and is one of those events that brings everyone together.  

3. Dia De Los Muertos

Known as “Day Of The Dead” in English, the festival takes place over two days on the first two days of November.

It’s a time for many Mexicans to honor and remember their dead loved ones. While many might think of this as a sad event, it’s actually a festive and lively event to celebrate those that have moved on into the next world and to pray for loved ones in Purgatory.

Many Mexicans go to graves and decorate them to make their dead relatives feel at home. It’s now recognized by UNESCO as a Cultural Heritage event. Many come from all over the world just to partake in the festivities. If you have a chance, going to a Day Of The Dead celebration is well worth the trip to Mexico.

4. Iceland Airwaves

 

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A post shared by Future Figment (@futurefigment) on Oct 20, 2018 at 11:04am PDT

This music festival takes place the weekend of November 7^th  to the 10^th. Originally started in 1999, Iceland Airwaves has drawn music lovers from all over. It’s put on to celebrate Iceland’s unique musical heritage, but also features musical acts from other parts.

With Iceland’s rise in popularity among travelers, so has this fall festivals attendance. 2018’s version looks like it will be the biggest…and best edition yet. Have we convinced you to hop on a flight over yet?

5. Loi Krathong

Much like Diwali, Loi Krathong is celebrated with lights. However, it is much less known than India’s version.

Held on November 23^rd throughout the Thai Kingdom, Loi Krathong is an event to celebrate all that nature has done for the Thai people and to continue to prosper as a result of its use.

On this day, Thai people float Krathong or floating structures made out of flowers, banana leaves, candles, and incense sticks. In the past some were made out of Styrofoam, but as many become more and more conscious of the harm this causes to the environment, many have switched to bread.

There are a few theories about why the holiday exists, but the most prominent one is that rivers are considered sacred by Thai people as most of the country supports itself through agriculture. To show respect and forgiveness, the Thai people created Loi Krathong. Through this, in a manner of speaking, they wash away their misdeeds and hope for good luck in the coming year.

6. Jasper Dark Sky Festival

 

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A post shared by 文 (@weennnz) on Oct 20, 2018 at 9:17pm PDT

The night sky in Jasper, Alberta is always incredible, but it really shines for 10 days in October. The event offers some of the best stargazing opportunities anywhere in the world. If you want to go to space or that topic interests you, there is a whole panel of astronauts, scientists, and other experts that discuss the future of space exploration.

7. Oktoberfest

One of the most famous fall festivals, Oktoberfest takes place for two weeks in late September to early October. There are more than 6 million people that attend the event and consume over 7.7 million liters of beer. Impressive numbers from a two-week festival.

8. Paris Autumn Festival

 

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A post shared by ia_2v (@la_2v) on Oct 20, 2018 at 4:27am PDT

Paris is known for its vibrant arts scene so what better time to celebrate it than in fall! From dance to theatre to concerts, the festival has a bit of something for everyone.

Taking place from September to early December, the festival is celebrating its 46^th edition and has only grown in recent years. If you love the arts or want to see some of the best that Paris has to offer, this is one of those fall festivals you can’t miss!

9. Harvest On The Harbor

 

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A post shared by Some Do. Others Witness. (@somedootherswitness) on Oct 19, 2018 at 5:29pm PDT

This week-long festival was created in 2007 to showcase some of Maine’s best food (the lobster is to die for!) In its 11^th year of existence, the festival has now expanded to showcase some of the art of local artists. Of course, you’ll be able to see some beautiful fall foliage all while eating some of the best food that the New England region has to offer.

10. Chuseok

Chuseok, also known as “Autumn’s Eve” in English, is a harvest festival celebrated throughout the Korean peninsula. Its celebration is timed to match the Fall Equinox and features tons of delicious food.

During the festival, Koreans go back to where they are from and celebrate with their families. If you are invited over for a Chuseok feast, you should absolutely try it!

Suggested next reading: 14 Road Trip Ideas In The US That Are Perfect For This Fall

The post 10 Fall Festivals Around The World To See Before You Die appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Before you know it, you’re searching for more, scrolling through countless pictures of Italy from every possible angle. Gorgeous, rustic, rolling hills with a faint mist slightly obscuring the dazzlingly orange sunlight that paints the chiseled, timeless landscape and excites the explosive shades of green in every leaf, every blade of grass swooning in the beauty of it all.

Freshly made pizza slowly rising in an oven coated with flour as the ripened San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella melt and ooze together, becoming entwined in what you suspect would be the most intoxicating bite of your life.

Italy sure looks enchanting.

You book your plane tickets and, within a few long months you find yourself standing inside your Italian dream. It’s beautiful, of course. But what you failed to see while scrolling on Instagram many months ago was that, in actual fact, Italy is not quite as immaculate as you first assumed.

You don’t regret your purchasing decision but, perhaps, you realize this is an opportunity to become slightly more world-wise and more consciously aware of expectation vs reality when it comes to traveling in general.

And so, my friends, here were my 8 observations of expectation vs reality when I traveled to Italy (from a Brits perspective!)

1. Driving In Italy

Expectation: Rolling hills, lots of sunshine, a happy and calm disposition.

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A post shared by Irma (@irms_p)

Reality: I’ve never felt so stressed. Why is everyone’s car so battered and bruised? Did I just see a car parked on a roundabout? Why was that person shouting at me from their car?

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A post shared by Scott Rennie (@doctorrennie)

2. Food In Italy

Expectation: I’ll definitely eat more than just pizza in Italy.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmqzWwRFdG_/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_loading_state_control

Reality: The chef preparing my order (the same as what I ordered yesterday…and the day before yesterday).

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A post shared by Chef Matthew Driscoll (@the_pizza_series)

But it tastes so good, so who cares?

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A post shared by S A R A O T E R I (@sara.oteri)

3. Personal Space In Italy

Expectation: I will continue to presume that I have an invisible circle barrier around myself that successfully inoculates me from the outside world.

Reality: Although it’s a warm gesture, my reserved non-Latin personality could never get used to it!

4. Crossing The Road In Italy

Expectation: Elegant, easy, care-free, with clear road-markings and signs indicating when to walk and when not to get hit by a car.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BgTu3EtgBDC/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_loading_state_control

Reality: Who needs order when you can just embrace a certain type of chaos that somehow runs seamlessly like clockwork?

5. Dress In Italy

Expectation: I just assumed most people would be wearing T-shirts and shorts.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmvL6iYgWW6/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_loading_state_control

Reality: Scarves! Why is everyone wearing scarves? It’s like 95 degrees outside.

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A post shared by MaritRa (@maritraag)

6. Countryside In Italy

Expectation: The countryside in Italy will consistently offer stunning views.

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A post shared by Discover Tuscany (@discovertuscany)

Reality: To be fair, that one is mostly true!

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A post shared by World TravelBloggers Community (@travelbloggeres)

7. Cities In Italy

Expectation: Italy’s major cities will inspire me at every turn with that European charm.

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Reality: Oops. I’ll just pretend I didn’t see that.

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A post shared by Photographer Croatia (@katarina.tati)

8. Conversations In Italy

Expectation: Like other Western and non-Latin places, people in public will speak politely and reservedly to each other so as not to offend or draw any undue attention to themselves.

Reality: Best friends having what appears to be shouting matches with each other and waving their hands enthusiastically (its the Latin way…apparently!)

Here’s how to understand some of those Italian hand gestures!

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A post shared by REAL ITALIANS (@real_italians)

Finally, you arrive back home after your trip to Italy. Sure, you may have realized there was quite a discrepancy in expectation vs reality, but you had a fantastic trip nonetheless.

Italy is a wonderful country, it’s people are charming, and the food stunning, so who cares if it wasn’t exactly as you expected? Being surprised by the adventure is kind of the point of travel anyway, right?

Suggested next reading: Venice: How To Enjoy It Without Destroying It

The post Italy On Instagram Vs Italy In Real Life appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Welcome to the “Red Center” of Australia, the extraordinary desert smack in the middle of the country, the ancient heart of the continent. It is the home of the traditional indigenous landowners, boasting some of the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets you’ll ever see, and Uluru, the sandstone monolith rising from the middle of the Northern Territory and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

And just beyond Uluru itself is the incredible installation Field of Light, designed by internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Munro. As the light fades and Uluru’s silhouette is cast against the purple sky, the exhibition comes to life. In the local Pitjantjatjara language, it is called “Tili Wiru Tjuta Nyakutjaku,” or “looking at lots of beautiful lights.”

A post shared by Australia (@australia) on Aug 9, 2017 at 11:06pm PDT

The installation’s shuttle bus picks up visitors at three different departure times throughout the evening, rumbling quietly through the remote desert landscape to the site. Upon arrival, the vastness of the pitch dark surrounding you feels almost stifling, as if the inky black sky couldn’t possibly get any blacker. Event guides greet you as you disembark from the bus, their stark flashlights feeling harsh amidst the natural landscape.

The group walks quietly through the bush until you start to see dots of glowing light ahead, as you quicken your pace to see more. Slowly, an anomaly amidst the dusty desert unfolds before you, and you have to stop to make sure you’re not imagining it. 50,000 solar powered globes come to light in a “garden” spanning the size of seven football fields. Their stems bend slightly in the hot night air, frosted spheres glowing blue, purple, ochre, and soft white as the sky above them darkens. Visitors stop to take photos before entering, the more advanced photographers setting up tripods and getting stunning time-lapse shots. It feels almost wrong to enter the installation; as if stepping inside might ruin the beauty of it all, and swallow you up whole.

Pathways draw visitors into the “fantasy garden” to explore at their own pace, guiding you along the winding paths through fields of psychedelic blooms. Shuttle buses depart the exhibition every two hours, giving visitors plenty of time to get lost amidst the lights. And lose yourself you will, as you wander further and further from the entrance deeper into the desert. Punctuated by small trees and benches for the occasional rest, the fields of solar powered globes feel almost trippy to gaze into. Before you know it, you’ve made your way back to the start, and will probably want to wander through again.

A post shared by Explore Uluru (@exploreuluru) on Nov 6, 2017 at 1:05am PST

Field of Light is British artist Bruce Munro’s largest installation to date, and his first work that is entirely solar powered. “Field of Light was one idea that landed in my sketchbook and kept on nagging at me to be done,” he says. “I saw in my mind a landscape of illuminated stems that, like dormant seeds in a dry desert, quietly wait until darkness falls, under a blazing blanket of southern stars, to bloom with gentle rhythms of light”. He first conceived of the idea during a visit to Uluru in 1992, after living in Australia for eight years. His work uses light to evoke an emotional response, often in an outdoor setting and on a grand scale. Other “Field of Light” installations had taken place in England, the U.S.A., Scotland, and Mexico, before finally being created in Australia, the birthplace of its inspiration.

Once you’ve sufficiently wandered the exhibition and feel ready to drag yourself from its ethereal grip, make your way back to the shuttle bus location, taking in one last drink of the night sky sprinkled with stars—the kind you only see with the lack of light pollution that exists in the middle of a remote desert. Stepping into the cool air of the bus feels like a shock after the hot desert air, and the bus slowly fills with passengers similarly aglow in the aftermath of such an otherworldly experience.

A post shared by Denis Kopylov (@denisom) on Jul 11, 2018 at 7:19am PDT

Ayers Rock Resort, the host organization for the installation, offers a number of other Field of Light experiences as well, for those who want more than just a wander. The “Field of Light Star Pass” includes a panoramic view of the lights from atop a nearby dune, with an introduction to the exhibition before sunset, Outback-style appetizers, and drinks. “A Night at Field of Light” features the award-winning “Sounds of Silence” dinner, a three-course meal set under the desert sky while a resident “star talker” explains the southern night sky. Prefer the sunrise to sunset? Choose “Sunrise Field of Light” to explore the installation in the pre-dawn silence. Additionally, almost all of these options include an upgrade to the “Pass by Camel,” first bringing you to the Uluru Camel Farm where you can get a ride from a friendly camel to the installation. (Camels were originally brought to Australia in the 19^th Century from Britain and Afghanistan to help with transportation and construction as western Australia was colonized, eventually being released into the wild after being replaced by motorized vehicles.) For those looking for a really mesmerizing Uluru experience, “A Night at Field of Light by Heli” offers the ultimate experience: installation entrance, “Sounds of Silence” dinner, and a half hour aerial helicopter tour.

No matter which ticket you choose, it’s important to note that Field of Light has been installed on indigenous land, and the Anangu people are the traditional owners and guardians of the National Park. (The land was handed back over to the Anangu people in 1985, and they then signed an agreement leasing the land to the Director of National Parks.) It is considered sacred to the traditional owners, and they invite visitors to hear stories of their ancient land—a visit to the Cultural Centre is free.

Field of Light has been extended until December 2020. Can’t make it to the middle of the desert in Australia? Well, this video is the next best thing:

Suggested next reading: Belgium’s Best Kept Secret Is Jaw-Droppingly Pretty

The post Australia’s Must-See Art Installation In The Middle Of The Outback appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Are you a jazz lover? Here is our list of 10 of the best jazz bars around the world, so that you can experience some of that old-fashioned magic listening to some great music, getting into the groove, and just having that pleasant night out. Let’s dive into it!

1) Birdland, New York

Birdland is a historic jazz bar in New York. Over the years it has changed several locations. The original opened on Broadway in 1949 and was a landmark in the jazz scene of the time. Some of the best jazz musicians in the world have played here, like Miles Davis, Count Basie, and John Coltrane. Not only that, it was very popular with the celebrities of the time; Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra to give some examples. Even today it is one of the best jazz clubs in New York housing some truly great musicians.

Location: 315 W 44th Street
Price: ranging from $20-$50 per night

2) Preservation Hall, New Orleans

If you are looking for traditional New Orleans jazz you can’t miss Preservation Hall. This legendary bar located in the iconic French Quarter has been hosting the city’s finest traditional musicians nightly for decades.

Location: 726 St. Peter Street (French Quarter)
Price: General admission is $20. For special events $30-50

3) Café Central, Madrid

A unique place to listen to some good jazz music and grab something to eat and drink, Café Central offers the old-fashioned style providing a blast from the past you don’t want to miss. Located in Plaza del Angel this bar is great for a musical stop while having some fun strolling around the city’s main center.

Location: Plaza del Angel 10
Price: Admission about €13

4) Sunset Sunside, Paris

Paris loves music! If you want to take a break in the city of love and enjoy some untraditional exotic jazz music such as gypsy jazz, Sunset Sunside is definitely the place you are looking for. You can find a great intimate place where to grab a drink, eat something and listen to some brand new experimental music by newbies and pro musicians!

Location: 60 Rue des Lombards
Price:  €10-€28

5) 28DiVino, Rome

The Eternal City has a place for you, jazz lovers! A wine, cheese & jazz club in the Prati area, the 28DiVino, makes jazz music the focal point of the weekly program of live concerts that it organizes. On the 28DiVino stage, national and international jazz musicians alternate. The restaurant has two rooms where you can dine and taste fine wines and cheeses while waiting for the live performances. Is there a better way to spend an evening in Rome? You tell me.

Location: Via Mirandola, 21, 00182 Roma
Price: €12

6) Jazz SPOT Intro, Tokyo

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Hi-tech Tokyo has a thing for jazz music too! Jazz SPOT Intro is a New York inspired jazz bar where you can enjoy some live music, grab something to drink and chill away from the city buzz. The top highlight of this jazz bar is its 12-hour Saturday sessions, which run until 5 am. A great opportunity to spend some quality time during the weekend!

Location: 2-14-8 Takadanobaba, Shinjuku-Ku
Price: Admission is ¥1000 (around $10)

7) Jazzhus Montmartre, Copenhagen

This place is considered to be one of the most legendary and best jazz bars in all of Europe! All year round this bar hosts special events and concerts giving the chance for pros and newbies to show off their skills and passion for music. Besides the musical side, the Jazzhus Montmartre is a great place to eat something too making it a one-of-a-kind club with an atmosphere that is classy yet typical of the best of the best jazz bars. The perfect place to warm up and relax after a busy day of sightseeing.

Location: Store Regnegade 19A, 1110
Price: Free admission for some events. You predominantly pay for what you eat and drink

8) Reduta Jazz Club, Prague

A post shared by crystal monee hall (@crystalmonee) on Apr 26, 2017 at 8:28am PDT

Reduta is located in the very heart of Prague and it is one of the oldest jazz clubs in Europe. A cultural spot not to be missed, this place offers the chance to chill and listen to some great jazz. Being an iconic place, over the years many politicians and celebrities have come to enjoy a gloriously jazzy night here. Bill Clinton has even played saxophone here! So, if you are tired of the same old pubs and crave some good live music, make your way down here, grab something to drink, sit down, and listen to new bands cover your favorite jazz masterpieces.

Location: Národní 116/20, 110 00 Nové Město
Price: Admission from €10

9) Donau 115, Berlin

A post shared by Hannah Newbery (@hannahnewbery) on Feb 26, 2018 at 4:03am PST

Berlin and jazz music might seem somewhat of a contradiction at first, but paying a visit to Donau 115 will definitely change your mind! Berlin is an experimenting city ready to use influences and vibes from several different genres and cultures, and so this is what you’ll notice (or hear) while spending some time in this jazz bar! You can find special events all year around hosting new bands creating a unique place for some jazz with that German vibe.

Location: Donaustraße 115, 12043
Price: Admission is free. You pay for what you eat and drink

10) Hot Clube de Portugal, Lisbon

We end our list of the 10 best jazz bars around the world with one of the most iconic European places you’ll ever find in Europe: the Hot Clube de Portugal in Lisbon. Lisbon has a huge interest in jazz music and you can witness this while exploring the city and its nearby areas! This place is definitely worth a visit as the epicenter of European jazz music. From people like Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie, Sarah Vaughan and Dexter Gordon, this bar is always following the recent changes and development taking place in the jazz world, which makes for brand new music and bands from all over the world. Locals love it. You will too.

Location: Praça Alegria 48, 1250-004
Price: Admission is €7.50

So, if you’re a jazz lover, you certainly have plenty of choices to enjoy some good music and to experiment with the newest and best jazz bars around the world! We highly encourage you to always check the website of the jazz bar you are interested in as you can easily catch the best events while in town. Plus, in some cases, especially when it comes to special shows or during holidays and weekends, booking in advance can be a lifesaver to avoid any bad surprises once you get there. Besides that, we really hope you enjoyed this list of the 10 best jazz bars around the world. Here’s to a great jazz-themed night out. Cheers!

Suggested next reading: 7 Best Cities For Street Art Around The World

The post 10 Of The Coolest Jazz Bars Around The World appeared first on Modern Trekker.

The options for art lovers are almost endless in Barcelona. The Museu Picasso is a traditional favorite with visitors, but for me at least, it’s Joan Miro who best epitomizes the vibrancy, color and quirkiness of Barcelona. Some of Miro’s sculptures can be found dotted around his home city, but for the most immersive experience, visit the Fundacio gallery on Montjuic. If you’re bitten by the Miro bug you can take time to pay your respects afterward, as Miro’s body is interred in nearby Montjuic cemetery.

2. Palau de la Musica

This concert hall is not just one of Barcelona’s best locations to indulge in a symphony or some jazz music, it’s also a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right. The famous skylight could be straight out of a Renaissance Cathedral, but the rest of the building is another example of Barcelona’s love affair with “modernisme”. Guided tours can be arranged from as little as 20 Euros, though it’s more if you want to take in a performance too.

3. MNAC

The Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya is an art gallery housed within the almost preposterously grandiose Palau Nacional, on Montjuic Hill. One of the largest museums in Spain, MNAC exhibits everything from early church paintings to modernist and surrealist works. What better way to understand a place and its people than through the works they leave behind?

4. Park Güell

Most major world cities have one or more architects or planners who have left an indelible mark on the landscape. In the case of Barcelona, that person is undeniably Antoni Gaudi. Here, Gaudi draws on his life-long fascination with the natural world to create a miniature wonderland of colorful mosaics and contoured lines; a small paradise in the middle of a modern city.

5. Block of Discord

Colorful, exuberant and conflicting—no other spot best encapsulates the explosion in modernist architecture that took place in Barcelona at the end of the 19^th Century than the “Block of Discord”. Another of Gaudi’s masterpieces, the “Casa Batllo”, is perhaps the best-known of the houses in this area, but other architects have also left their mark. “Casa Amatller” and “Casa Lleo-Morera” are no less distinctive than Gaudi’s masterpieces For the best experience take a tour inside one—or all—of the houses, where the styles are even more over-the-top than they appear from outside.

And here’s a very imaginative (and weird!) video in the style of Gaudi showcasing the otherworldliness of the Block of Discord:

6. Deep Dive Gaudi

No one comes away from the first visit to Barcelona without some exposure to its most famous architect, Antoni Gaudi. However, those looking to gain a deeper insight into Gaudi’s work should visit the Palau Guell in El Raval, his first major building in the city, and Bellesguard Tower in Sarria-Sant Gervasi. These two monuments showcase Gaudi’s style but are removed enough from the throngs of crowds that you’ll have time enough to savor the details and drink in the atmosphere.

7. Cathedral

The Gothic Cathedral—built largely in the 14^th Century—is in the slightly unusual position of being overshadowed by a much more recent neighbor (of which more later). However, for many centuries before the modernist explosion in Barcelona, the Gothic Cathedral was the heart of public life and a spectacle that would have been unrivaled anywhere in the region. It’s also the likely origin of one of Catalunya’s most unusual traditions—the dancing egg—which takes place throughout Catalunya during Corpus Christi.

8. Sagrada Familia

Begun in 1882 and still under construction, La Sagrada Familia is regarded by many as one of Gaudi’s masterpieces and is certainly Barcelona’s most emblematic site. It’s an explosion of colors and ideas set in stone, for some this means that it lacks some of the internal harmony compared to Gaudi’s masterpieces dotted elsewhere around the city, but for others, it’s a testament to the breadth of his vision. Yes it’s touristy and yes it’s crowded, but it’s also a structure unlike any you will find anywhere else in the world, making it a must-see. Just make sure you order your tickets online in advance or prepare for long queues to get in.

The Sagrada Familia is currently unfinished (even though construction started in 1882), though here is a video showcasing how it will look once it is finally finished:

9. Tablao Cordobes

Flamenco is an art form that is synonymous with the southern region of Spain, meaning an authentic experience of the dance is a near impossibility in the north. Luckily for us, the one exception is Barcelona. The Tablao Cordobes has been in operation since 1970 and has hosted some of the masters of the form since then. It is now one of the only two authentic tablao in Barcelona. Enjoy tapas or a larger meal as you watch the dancing for the complete experience.

Other Barcelona articles you should read next:

1. 9 Unique Must-Do Things In Barcelona That Many People Miss
2. 6 Simply Wonderful Day Trips From Barcelona

The post 9 Cultured Spots In Barcelona Art Lovers Simply Can’t Miss appeared first on Modern Trekker.

1. Green Tea (Japan)

It’s no secret that Japan is home to the oldest life expectancy in the world (Men 79 years old, Women 86 years old). Every other culture wants to know why Japanese people live so long. The secret? No one is quite sure as there are many different reasons, but many believe green tea plays a factor. There have been numerous studies on green tea and its health benefits. From maintaining oral health to preventing cancer, green tea has started to become popular outside of Japan. This can be seen in many cafés around the world as many people now drink Matcha Lattes, a green tea powder.

2. Small Portions (Europe)

As an American, this is one of the first things I noticed when I lived in Europe. Compared to the massive servings back home, Europe’s plates are tiny. This was great for me because if I have food in front of me, I’ll eat it. Instead, Europe’s portions are just enough. The plate sizes prevent you from overeating and feeling incredibly full after your meal. I have come to realize that there is no reason for the huge portions. Europeans pair their small serving size with a long drawn out dinner with friends and family. I think Europeans are onto something.

3. Low Carb Diet (Mediterranean)

The Mediterranean diet is heart healthy, low carb, and high protein. It’s only caught on in the past decade in North America but has been around for centuries in Mediterranean countries, where meals are events. The health benefits associated with the diet are plenty. The diet has been shown to reduce bad cholesterol, reduce cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. So what exactly is a Mediterranean diet? The key components are eating plant-based foods such as fruits and vegetables, replacing butter with healthy fats such as olive oil, using herbs and spices to flavor dishes, and of course, drinking red wine. Another aspect of a Mediterranean diet is taking the time to prepare fresh food and enjoying the meal in the company of family and friends. We’ll raise a glass of wine to that…in moderation of course

4. Nature Getaways (Canada)

Canada is known for their long, harsh winters, but that doesn’t stop Canadians from going outside and enjoying the weather. No matter the season, Canadians can be found outside in nature. In winter, they love to ski or snowboard. In all other seasons, you can bet they will either be hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, or enjoying a whole host of other outdoor activities. Canadians value their time in nature and it’s a big reason why they have a great work-life balance. They believe in working hard during the week and having fun outside on the weekend. Luckily, they have some of the most stunning nature on Earth.

5. Nordic Spas (Scandinavia)

Have you always wondered why every spa wants to be known as a “Nordic” spa? It’s because Scandinavia is the gold standard when it comes to spas. They are known around the world for their famous images of saunas and steam rooms in the snow. Scandinavians take their spas seriously. The tradition dates back thousands of years and is usually a full day outing for the entire family. There is a simple three-step system to a Nordic spa treatment. It involves a circuit consisting of firstly working up a sweat in a sauna and, secondly, taking a dip into cold water. The third and final step is to take it easy and relax in an outdoor steam bath. There are various health benefits for doing this circuit. It has been shown to improve the immune system, good for skin health, and reduce stress. There’s a reason why Scandinavians are some of the happiest people on Earth.

6. Muesli (Switzerland)

Muesli is a breakfast dish that was invented by a Swiss doctor over a hundred years ago for his sick patients. Based on raw rolled oats, grains, fruits, and seeds, the breakfast is high in fiber, is easy to make, and has become a popular choice of cereal for people all over the world because of its health benefits. It’s pretty tasty too.

7. Siesta (Spain)

A siesta (Spanish for “nap”) is a short nap in the early afternoon—usually just after lunch—that is quite a common occurrence in Southern European countries such as Spain and anywhere else where Spanish influence has spread throughout the world, e.g. the Philippines and Hispanic American countries. Studies have shown that those who nap have less risk of heart attack and that there is a 37% reduction in coronary mortality. The siesta has gone by the alternative name of “power nap” elsewhere around the world where, it too, has been shown to have various health benefits. Health benefits aside, who doesn’t sometimes need that extra energy in the afternoon during work?!

Suggested next reading: 9 Simple Tips To Stay In Shape On The Road

The post 7 Health Hacks Other Cultures Use To Improve Their Health appeared first on Modern Trekker.

1. Valparaiso, Chile

Valparaiso, a small, bohemian town on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, is a street artist’s dream. Almost every inch of the city is covered in art! While there are many tours that give you background on the different works, the best way to see the city and its art is by wandering around. The most famous street art is the, “We are not hippies, we are happies” mural that is painted across a sitting area at the top of one of the many hills in Valparaiso. The view from the top is absolutely stunning!

2. Bogotá, Colombia

South America is known for its incredible street art, but Colombia is at the top of the list. Bogota is both the capital of the country and the street art scene. Due to its long history of drug smuggling, political unrest, and violence, Colombia has some fascinating street art filled with political undertones. Home to over 5,000 murals all throughout the city, street art in Bogota has been legal since 2012. Head to the Chapinero district to see some of the best works, although you really can’t go wrong anywhere you go.

3. Berlin, Germany

Berlin is Europe’s capital of all things hip and cool so, naturally, it has to be home to some great street art murals. The most difficult decision you’ll have to make when visiting Berlin is deciding which murals to see. From the streets of Kreuzberg to Factory 23 in Wedding to East Side Gallery, street art fills almost every inch of the city. An area that you have to see though is in the Friedrichshain neighborhood and it is called Revaler 99/Urban Spree. The former East German train repair factory turned business park is home to some of the most well known street art on the continent. While there, be sure to walk around the RAW area for the most colorful works of art. As an added bonus if you have time, head into the personal disco booth and have your own dance party for a couple of minutes.

4. Buenos Aires, Argentina

 If you are looking for a piece of Europe with some Latin American flair then you have to head to Buenos Aires. The architecture is what resembles Europe the most and is most loved by street artists as the city allows them to work with few restrictions. It attracts artist from around the world who choose to do their huge, unique murals there. In most cities, I would recommend skipping the street art tour and walking around on your own, but in Buenos Aires, I highly recommend doing one. Argentina has a complicated political past and the tour did a great job of explaining how street art played a big role in changing the government and their lives. It was also interesting to learn how street art is coded into messages so only others can read it and each neighborhood had their own set of numbers and words only they understood. The best neighborhood to see street art in Buenos Aires is Palermo and after a long day of exploring and taking in the different murals, it’s a great place for dinner and drinks. Another highlight is the working-class area of La Boca.

5. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon’s beauty is only enhanced by its incredible street art. Located on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon has quickly become a global hot spot for street art. Lisbon is unique because most of its street art is commissioned by the city. They want the city to feel like an open-air museum and, as a result, tourism in the city has exploded in recent years. The best area in Lisbon to see art is on Calçada de Glória. One of the steepest streets in Lisbon, the area is filled with art and you can’t beat the warm sea breeze on your skin.

6. Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne is one of the coolest cities in the world and has recently become the de facto home to street art in Australia. The city has the perfect grid layout for exploring. Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD) is composed of 260 Laneways that each have their own feel. Some of the Laneways are home to street art walls where artists can legally tag. Melbourne has owned its street art reputation and now hosts the yearly Street Sweets, a festival that celebrates various forms of art including street art. If you are ever in Australia, you have to see some of the incredible Laneways.

7. Montreal, Canada

Hidden in alleys, on rooftops, and visible tons of walls across Montreal are incredible art murals. With such intense winters, street artists make sure to use the warmer months to tag every inch of the city. Home to Canada’s best street art, Montreal is a city full of energy and the art only adds color to that picture. The city has only recently come on the global street art scene in 2013 when it started hosting its own street art festival called MURAL Fest. The 10-day art festival takes over Montreal’s Rue St. Laurent and has various artists from all over the globe put up their best murals. If you love street art, this festival simply cannot be missed!

Suggested next reading: Discovering Beauty In Liverpool: A Gallery Definitely Worth Seeing

The post 7 Best Cities For Street Art Around The World appeared first on Modern Trekker.

The Walker Gallery is very impressive indeed. It takes you—free of charge—through various centuries of art history within a dozen or so large sections featuring works by many of Europe’s best-known painters: Murillo, Rubens, Rembrandt, Poussin, Gainsborough…They’re all there. Wikipedia says it contains “one of the largest art collections in England, outside London”, which seemed about right to me.

You might think that as a priest, I would have liked the religious paintings best of all. There certainly is a lot of great faith-inspired art in Liverpool—yet another reminder of how much Christianity has enriched our culture—but truth be told, it wasn’t a religious work which most caught my attention. If I had to pick one single painting in the gallery which struck me, it was John Everett Millais’ Isabella (also known as Lorenzo and Isabella).

Emerging from the dull 18th-century section—an abundance of slightly tedious portraits of aristocrats and equally uninspiring landscapes (may the specialists have mercy on me!)—it was a breath of fresh air to plunge into the bright color and wild imagination of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. Pride of place among them was Isabella, which is Millais’ 1849 masterpiece based on a story in Boccaccio’s Decameron and taken up later in a poem of John Keats. In the right-hand foreground (as one looks at the work) you have the two young lovers who only have eyes for each other, tragically so as this will soon lead to their undoing. The problem is that Lorenzo is only an employee and Isabella’s family, whose business is struggling, have her ear-marked for a marriage to a rich nobleman. Lorenzo will be killed by them but the rebellious Isabella will dig up his body to cut off and keep his head, burying it in a pot of basil which she then waters with her tears.

The painting shows the moment when the rest of the family seem to realize that love is in the air. I say “seem” because the artist brilliantly shows everyone doing their utmost not to let on that they have noticed. And it’s as if they have all telepathically agreed on their murderous resolve. It is extraordinary how Millais portrays their hypocritical propriety with such dramatic intensity. The elderly mother, sitting to the left of Lorenzo, does everything she can not to turn her head but is clearly aware of all that is going on. To her left, the father wipes his mouth with his napkin in an exemplary show of etiquette which only makes his ruthless intentions all the more dreadful. One brother swigs down his wine, another examines it. All have food but it hardly seems to matter to them. They are cramped together with other siblings, but in perfect order, in a way which further intensifies their ill-intentioned constraint. Only a brother in the foreground, with his splendidly muscular thigh in white stockings matching the equally white tablecloth, gives us a glimpse of the family’s real evil. The white represents their impeccable external correctness, but this same youth is leaning forward on his stool to kick the dog whose head is resting on Isabella’s lap. There is nothing white about their hearts. He appears to be concentrating on a nut-cracker as if to show his determination to crack this unfortunate liaison. The scene captures the split-second before his foot will make contact with the hound and so upset its peace and disturb the passionate encounter of the two lovers.

My friend and I left the gallery to head towards the docks. After a brief visit to the Liverpool central library, a successful combination of the best of modern and Victorian architecture full of busy youths swatting for exams, we stopped briefly in the next door museum and joined a minute of silence for the victims of the Hillsborough disaster. Outside a small crowd had gathered by a memorial and sang tunelessly but passionately “You’ll never walk alone”. As both a southerner and (for historical family reasons) an Everton fan, I was happy that I could join this tribute by authentically Scouse Liverpool supporters. A city that still gathers to remember its dead almost 30 years down the line is a city with a heart—and therefore a future.

Our journey to the docks took us past the Blessed Sacrament shine, next to a bus terminal and in the middle of a rather soulless shopping district. But there people were praying. Christ still finds His way into the heart of human journeying—and even human business.

Returning from Albert Docks (nice but somewhat commercial), we got into our car and drove to the cathedrals. The parking ticket was a wound but the Anglican temple is a majestic monument which proclaims itself to be a cathedral simply by its size and spaciousness. It’s a beautiful brown-stone building and I have to confess that, as a Catholic, I can’t help wishing it were ours! But as it’s post-Reformation by a number of centuries, I have no grounds for complaint this time.

Then to the Catholic cathedral…The crown of thorns tower is striking, the stained glass creates a powerful interior atmosphere and there is much within it that is very worthy. But the biggest disappointment was the altar-piece in the Blessed Sacrament chapel. In what should be the most beautiful chapel in the cathedral (following what we Catholics claim to believe: that Jesus Christ, God made man, is truly inside that box we call a tabernacle, under the form of bread), the painting was an abstract effort in yellow and white diagonal stripes which would mean very little to anyone. My only hope is that the forthcoming National Eucharistic Congress will inspire someone to put something better there, something, please God, with both the imagination and technical expertise of Isabella.

And this perhaps is the point I began with, and with which I end. The greatness of Millais’ work is that it tells a recognizable story and captures human feelings and passions in a discernible but imaginative manner. You know what is going on and you are brought into the scene and challenged. For this 19^th-century gem is very far from being a staid re-working of what has gone before. Millais provokes and unsettles us (the work certainly did in its time). For all its daring, the artist—like other great pre-Raphaelites—shows a technical mastery which matches that of any contemporary painter of the period. It is worth going to see this work because it has taken art forward. And watching the painting, and numerous other works in the Walker Gallery (the best place for art in Liverpool), one is taken forward oneself, entering into the vision and creativity of great artists of the past to grow in both in the present. Through this experience of beauty, one deepens in one’s understanding of the human condition. It is a journey—at least a small step—out of one’s own limitations into a far greater imaginative and psychological world. If that is not traveling, I don’t know what is.

Suggested next reading: Why You Need To Ditch The Noise & Escape Into Silence ASAP

The post Discovering Beauty In Liverpool: A Gallery Definitely Worth Seeing appeared first on Modern Trekker.