DuffelUp.com Blog

Hi Duffelers!

It has been quiet 3 months at Duffel.  As you can tell, we stopped our popular "48 hours and a Duffel" posts, not intentionally of course, but because our favorite writer, Kira, has moved on.  I tried to write an article or two about some cities I've visited, but I can't get myself to publish them and put you through my poor, 2nd grade writing.  However, some exciting things have happened as well, one of which is our topic today: new corkboard layout!

Yesterday, we did something quite drastic.  To prevent future confusion on two different views - itinerary list view vs. itinerary corkboard view - we got rid of the legacy list view and presented the itinerary on the corkboard, right below where the "scratch board" (now called "My Ideas and Notes") used to be.  In addition, clicking on the "i" at the bottom right of each note card (see screenshots below), you will see the detailed view of each note card, including a larger picture (if available).  

So why this change, you ask.  What are the advantages anyway?  Now you can:

• View the whole itinerary and snippet of notes without every clicking on "+" sign.
• Let other users view your itinerary + pictures at a glance.
• Easily view details and larger picture without ever leaving the screen.
• Create a travel journal / diary for friends and family to view.

We also understand that there's a drawback to every solution.  Here are some from my personal pespective:

• Harder to drag & drop items into the itinerary.
• Lose the "timeline" view of events.  It was easily presented when listed from top to down.  Left to right just seems...not right.

These are my thoughts.  What about yours?  Do you love it, or hate it? We are all ears to your comments and feedback.  Feel free to email me directly will [at] duffelup [dot] com.  Before you start writing your critism or praise, please remember that this version is just a first stab, and we're constantly striving to find the right balance based on your feedback.

P.S. You can also direct your comments here: http://getsatisfaction.com/duffel/topics/what_happened_to_the_list_view_in_grid_view

- will & duffel team

I took a Birthright trip to Israel this past winter break and wanted to share with you all one of my favorite cities from the vacation - Tel Aviv.  It’s a young, hip, and vibrant city that has enough culture, beaches, and activities to keep you busy all day and night long. Although I didn’t have very much time in Tel Aviv, I’ve included some of the things I did in this post and added a few activities I wish I’d had time for. Also, since Saturday is the "day of rest" in Israel I started the trip on Sunday because most of what I suggested isn't open on Saturdays. Hope you enjoy! 

Sunday 9 am – Independence Hall Museum

Begin your trip with a visit to the site where Israel declared its independence. Although small and humble on the outside, this was an amazing experience that I recommend to anyone interested in the history of Israel. It was powerful and moving to get to see where the nation was born, and to be in the room where the Declaration of Independence was signed.  Finally, we had a wonderful tour guide who kept it really entertaining, but still educational at the same time. 

Sunday 11 am – Lunch on the Beach

The beaches at Tel Aviv were gorgeous and were one place where I wished I could have stayed longer than 20 minutes. There are private and public beaches so you have the option to pay for more privacy, etc if you'd like. However, I visited one of the public beaches and it was extremely pleasant with few crowds and beautiful views. This time is also a wonderful chance to stop at one of the many falafel/shwarma stands throughout Tel Aviv, which is a must-eat meal. Throughout my entire 10-day trip I didn’t have one falafel or shwarma wrap that I didn’t enjoy!

In addition to relaxing on the beach with your lunch, take a walk or beach ride along the Promenade, the street that runs from the top to the bottom of the city along the beach. There are lots of stores and people to see if you do wander around the Promenade! 

The beach in Tel Aviv

Sunday 2 pm – Shenkin Area

The Shenkin Street area is the best place to go for some shopping while your in Tel Aviv. I loved the wide variety of stores and felt that I was able to find  great items for myself and also some souvenirs as well! If you feel like you need a break you can always stop at one of the many cafes in the area and people watch.

Carmel Market is a must-go while you’re in the area. It’s an outdoor market that has every item you could want, and at cheap prices. Don’t be afraid to bargain and you’ll walk out of there with some of the best deals you’ll find in Tel Aviv. There’s a lot of produce and food in the back area and tons of clothes, bags, make-up, electronics and pretty much everything else you could imagine in the front. The only downside is the large crowd definitely makes shopping a little more difficult and less serene.  

Nachalat Binyamin is right by and is a pedestrian mall with some great stores. The best part though is every Tuesday and Friday artists sell their art along the sidewalk. If you’re visiting either of those days then I would definitely recommend checking out their work! I saw some amazing pieces that I have never seen anything like before.  

Sunday 6 pm – Orna and Ella

After shopping to your heart’s content head over to Orna and Ella to for a hearty and delicious meal. With Italian-influenced cuisine, this little café is a favorite amongst locals and will be yours as well after you experience the intimate setting and excellent selection of food. It gets busy quick so make reservations before you head over!

What to order: Some home-made pasta or the sweet potato fritters

Sunday 9 pm - Lilenblum Street

If you’re looking for a night out on the town then Lilenblum Street is where you should head, more specifically between the southern end of Rothschild Boulevard, Neve Tzedek and Nahalt Binyamin Street. There are a good amount of bars and clubs in the area and all within walking distance of one another so you’ll have little to travel for a good time.

One dance bar to check out is Lima Lima. Hang out on their big comfy chairs for a more laidback night or head to their dance floor if you’re looking for more of a club vibe. They have a variety of themed nights and music so check out their calendar beforehand! 

Another place on Lilenblum Street to check out is Shesek, a lounge bar. They’re known to have great quality djs and a bar where you can order pretty much any drink you’d like! It is a little pricier but not by enough to make the trip there not worth it. 

Monday Morning – Palmach Museum

Although referenced as more of an experience than a museum, the Palmach will walk your through the war for independence and give you a more complete understanding of Israel’s fight for freedom. It’s supposed to be quite a moving experience because of how interactive the rooms are. You’ll walk out of there with a true understanding of what it was like for immigrants who came to Israel and fought for the right to stay.

Monday Lunch – Elimelech

Enjoy some authentic Jewish Eastern European cuisine while you’re in Israel at Elimelech. Known to have great service and atmosphere in addition to wonderful food, you’ll definitely walk out feeling satisfied. Make sure to try their special draft beer, which takes twenty minutes to pour!

What to order: Krepalach (meat dumplings) and herring  

Monday Afternoon – Jaffa Outlook

Step away from the hustle and bustle of the city and head to Old Jaffa where you’ll get wonderful views of the Mediterranean and the city itself. Jaffa is one of the world’s oldest ports and a beautiful area to relax or wander around. Explore the alleys and check out some of the local shops, which are filled with tons of art. Also make sure to make it over to the outlook to watch the sunset, a great closing moment to your trip.

While you're in Jaffa consider stopping at Abu-Hassan for some of the best hummus you'll find! With hummus as the main star of their limited menu, make sure you get here early because they only stay open till they run out! 

Monday Dinner - Cordelia

As a lover of food, Cordelia in Jaffa is the restaurant I would want to end my stay in Israel with. Known for their great ambience and delicious and unique dishes, dinner here will be an unforgettable experience from your trip. Chef Nir Zook gets creative with his dishes, in regards to both flavor and presentation, and will present to you combinations that you never imagined to pair. Plan on staying a while and really enjoying the food and atmosphere to its fullest. 

Duffel is designed to be as flexible as Excel / Word, and at the same time, provides more structure and organization around the chaotic trip planning process. Our nifty features such as corkboard (for collecting ideas), map integration, friends collaboration, and iPhone app (to carry your digital itinerary) are just a few among many way to help you plan better trips.  In our attempt to make trip planning even funner, each of your trips are called "duffels", because every duffel contains travel ideas, activities, to-do list, and even hotel / flight booking information - you know, stuff you'd take with you when you travel.  Even though "duffel" may throw some people off, we're sticking with it because it is our brand! (sorry I rant off topic just now).

No time to plan trips?  This is where Duffel becomes really useful.  Let's say you always wanted to visit Thailand, but you never get the time to research prices, find places to stay or things to do there.  Those exotic beaches and coconut drinks are simply ideas that seem so close, yet far away. No worries, because with our Clip-It Bookmarker, you can start clipping notes about Thailand while you're doing your usual browsing on travel websites.  Fill up your Thailand duffel over time - could take weeks or even months - and when you finally decide to take the leap, most of your trip research has already been done!

One of my favorite websites to casually browse for travel ideas (note: casual also means non-committal) is New York Times Travel.  Not only do they have interesting takes on different cities and ethnic cuisines, NYTimes is almost never stingy on pictures and maps.  For example, their Thailand guide provides information on where to go, when to go, and opinions on various Thai topics.  Once you clip an article to your duffel, the picture and website are automatically saved, and you can always refer back to it any time.  When I become a little more serious about the trip, I usually go on Trip Advisor to check out hotel reviews in Thailand.  Trip Advisor works really well with our Clip-It bookmarker because we pick up hotels addresses as well, which means more time browsing and less time cutting & pasting.  Of course, I won't hesitate to invite my wife, who would be traveling with me, to the duffel, so she can start doing her own research and clipping her ideas (which usually consist of spas and good food).

Okay, Thailand is nice, but you still don't know where to go?  Explore Duffel and see what our duffelers are up to and where they are planning their trips!  And please don't hesistate to contact us with your ideas and feedback - we are all ears.

The beautiful, ancient city of Delhi is the largest in northern India and one of the oldest in the world. New Delhi, located within Delhi, is the vibrant capital of India. The landmarks here include significant government buildings, monuments, mosques and temples, all wonderful representations of the breathtaking Indian architecture. The growing metro system is a helpful way to explore many of the areas within New Delhi as well as the surrounding areas. There are always taxis and rickshaws as well!  

Saturday 9 am 

 For the museum lovers, start your day off at the National Museum in New Delhi. It is known for its exquisite collection containing many valuable and important pieces. Although the building itself has been criticized for needing many renovations you’ll still find over 200,000 pieces of art ranging from pre-historic to modern time.   

If you’re looking for something a little different then check out Humayun’s Tomb, referenced by many as a mini version of the Taj Mahal. This is the tomb of Mughal’s Emperor Humayun and marked the beginning of what would be a new direction for Mughal architecture. The beautiful complex is spotted with serene gardens, making it's grounds a perfect place to embrace some Indian history.  

Saturday Noon - Qutub Minar

Pack a lunch and enjoy it at the picnic grounds around the Qutub Minar, a red standstone tower started in 1199 AD. The Qutub Minar is the tallest brick minaret, (a type of Islamic mosque) in the world.  It is inscribed on the outside in Arabic and Nagari, which tell the tower’s history. After you’ve finished your lunch walk the 379 steps to the top and enjoy the bird’s eye view of the city.  

Saturday 3 pm - Shopping on Janpath

Janpath, translating to the “People’s Path,” is one of the main roads in New Delhi and an excellent place for bargain-hunting. You’ll be able to find a variety of knick-knacks, clothes, books, and many other items that make great souvenirs and gifts from your trip. However, you must be prepared to bargain ruthlessly to get the deals you deserve. 

If you’re interested in more Western style shops then check out the horseshoe-shaped Connaught Place, at one end of Janpath and very close to all the flea market type stores. Located in the heart of the city, here you’ll find everything your heart could desire from electronic and household goods to clothes and handicrafts. 

Saturday Evening - South Indian Cuisine 

For dinner head over to the close-by Saravana Bhavan which features authentic south Indian vegetarian cuisine at reasonable prices. With lines often out the door be prepared to wait for a table but the food and service will make it well worth it.  The dosa, a crispy, savory pancake) is a must-try and comes with a variety of chutneys.  There is great variety here so you’ll get a chance to sample many different flavors and dishes. 

Sunday 9 am - Old Delhi 

Spend the first part of the day in New Delhi beginning with the beautifully built Lotus Temple. The Lotus Temple is named such because of it looks like a flower with 27 petals. This Bahai faith inspired temple is a wonderful place to begin your day with a walk through the gardens outside and even through the temple itself. 

The Lotus Temple. Photo by Daria (interrogating the image).

Close by is Red Fort, a splendid redstone building that is another great representation of Mughal architecture. Completed in 1648, it served as a defense for the city and featured twenty-one towers along the 124 acre fort. Even if you do not tour the inside it still is a wonderful structure to walk by and see because of its architecture and magnitude. 

Another wonderful place to check out right next door is Chatta Chowk, a covered bazaar that served the luxurious needs of the imperial class in the 17th century. Today you can find less luxury goods and more Indian handicrafts that make for great souvenirs from your trip. In the vaulted arcades of Chatta Chowk you will also find many eateries so its a great place to stop for some lunch and refueling. 

 An excellent place to stop by for food and treats is Haldiram’s, a manufacturer of sweets and snacks.  Located in the middle of Chatta Chowk, this two story shop has been providing sweets and snack foods to Delhi since 1924. The first floor has a vast array of treats and the second story is a vegetarian restaurant. Make sure to try the Delhi chaat more specifically the Raj Kachori, containing a variety of stuffings and chutneys. 

Sunday 3 pm - King's Way 

Head over to Rajpath, one of the main roads in New Delhi and connects the landmark India Gate to the official resident of the president, the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Begin with a tour of the magnificent Rashptrapati Bhavan, featuring a beautiful mixture of both American and Indian architecture on 4.5 acres. You must get permission beforehand for a tour of the landmark so contact a tour group ahead of time to schedule. 

 After your tour walk down Rajpath, also known as “King’s Way,” and enjoy the scenic landscape. You’ll pass by the main administrative buildings of India, museums, and decorative parks and gardens as you make your way over to India Gate. India Gate was built in commemoration of the almost 100,000 Indian soliders who died fighting in WWI for the British. It is one of the most well-known landmarks in New Delhi and a must-see on your trip.  After a day of walking and exploring its gardens present a nice place to relax and people watch. There also are many street vendors for you to pick up snacks from as well. 

Sunday 7 pm - Bukhara

For dinner indulge at one of the best restaurants in not only India, but Asia as well - Bukhara. The Northwestern Indian inspired cuisine is meant to be experienced and relished by eating with your hands so you’re given aprons instead of utensils. If you enjoy seafood make sure to try out their prawns and also try their black daal. Although pricey, its worth the cost to enjoy a delicious final meal in India.  

Sunday Option 2

Another option for your Sunday is to head over towards East Delhi to the Akshardham temple, the largest Hindu temple complex in the world.  The magnificent structure is beautifully decorated and acts not only as a religious center but also an educator of the many different cultures in India. There are enough activities there to keep you engaged for hours. Make sure to check out the Hall of Values, musical fountain, and take a boat ride! 

Where to Stay?

Taj Mahal Hotel 

If you’re looking to treat yourself during your stay to New Delhi than this luxurious hotel is the place for you. Everything, the service, cleanliness, facilities, is held to impeccable standards that won’t disappoint. The Taj Mahal Hotel will do everything possible to make their accomodations perfect for you, allowing you to only focus on enjoying your stay in New Delhi. A plus - the restaurants at their hotel are some of the best in India including Chinese and Indian cuisine. 

Shanti Home 

 If location of your hotel is not as important to you then you must check out Shanti Home for your accomodations. Although outside central Delhi, the hotel’s spacious rooms, wonderful staff, rooftop restaurant, and massage/spa services can create a wonderful oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the New Delhi.  You can easily travel to central Delhi by taking the metro or a rickshaw. Book here if you’re looking for a perfect place to unwind each night after a long day of sightseeing.  

If you enjoyed reading about this trip and want to check out more then visit the Duffel here. 

At Duffel, duffel bag means all those, and much more.  A "duffel" is essentially a place for you to store all your travel notes, research, information, ideas, and itineraries.  Not only, it is a place where you can invite friends, so they can throw their travel plans in, mixed with yours.  If you're not planning a trip, well, then "duffel" is where you accumulate interesting articles you found online or add recommendations that you heard from friends, so when you are ready to actually plan the trip, half your trip has already been planned.

If you're a reader of our blog, you probably noticed 

button all over our posts.  Before you skip the button, why don't you try clicking on it?

The button is to provide you an easy and simple (one-click!) way to add our activity, restaurant and hotel recommendations to your "duffel".  And because your time is so precious, we even added notes to each recommendation, so you don't even need to type in notes to remember why you clipped this activity or hotel in the first place.  If you are a travel nut who likes to research and collect travel ideas, or if you're someone who likes to keep stuff in Microsoft Excel, our "Add to Duffel" button is probably the best thing that has happened to you since our Clip-It bookmarker.  Next time when you read our articles, look for 

But what if you're a travel blogger or writer, and want to use our "Add to Duffel" button for your readers to easily clip notes?  You're in luck, because we created something just for you.  Why don't you look over here, and start empowering your readers to add your recommendations to their duffel!

Hey guys - it's Will, Duffel founder here.  Before I start rambling about Los Cabos, where I spent Labor Day, and which is what I will show you today, I'd like to take some time to thank Kira for doing such a great job writing about cities all over the world.  As a person who loves to travel, I thoroughly enjoyed all of her articles and appreciated the time she spent researching the best places to go and most popular restaurants.  The goal is to enable you, whether you're Duffel users or not (if you're not, you should join!), to start planning your vacation, because it's never too early to start saving notes and ideas for your next trip.  Ultimately, that is Duffel's goal - to give you guys a flexible tool to plan your trip with friends and loved ones.  We hope we were (and will) able to get some of you on board!

Anyway, let's get started with our Cabo trip.  First thing is that you need to understand what "Cabo" means, because the first time I searched it on Google Maps, I was confused about why the map was showing a city called "Cabo San Lucas".  Well, Cabo San Lucas is a city at the southern most tip of Baja peninsula, and it is most famous for it's Arc, a piece of arc-like rock formation that is literally the southern tip of Baja  (pictured below).  Interestingly, there's another city 20 miles north of Cabo San Lucas called San Jose del Cabo, which is a bustling town that is more city-like and a little less resort-like, and is also often confused with the real "Cabo".  We actually spent four full days in Cabo, so I'll get started with the trip.

Friday 2pm - Check In to hotel

My wife and I landed at Los Cabos International airport (SJD) after a short 3-hour flight from San Francisco.  It was 2pm, and we innocently took an outrageously expensive cab from the airport to our resort in Cabo San Lucas, for a whopping $80USD (one-way)!  (Shame on my that I didn't do much research - I should have used more Duffel!)  A tip for next time, ditch the cab and book here for a hotel shuttle ($28 round trip, much better).  We checked in to our resort, Casa Dorada Resort & Spa and the ocean view lobby made me forget all about the ridiculously-priced cab ride. If you book at the link above, you get free brunch buffet for two!

View from the lobby

Casa Dorada, as I found out later, is one of the best situated resort at Cabo.  Its at a great location that is right by its private beach, and only a 10-minute walk from downtown Cabo San Lucas  Unlike other resorts, Casa Dorada resort is kids-friendly, so there wasn't loud music blasting by the pool until 4am.  Another perk is that 80% of the rooms have an ocean view, which makes almost every room perfect. If you're considering a getaway, but still want to have an option to hang out downtown, this is the resort for you.  I know my wife spent countless hours researching on this, so kudos for her!

Friday 6pm - Explore resort and dinner

For dinner, we ate at a fancy restaurant in the hotel, and it was definitely the biggest mistake we made during the whole vacation.  Thinking back, I still can't believe we paid $28/person for a mediocre buffet, when we could have gotten tacos for half the price elsewhere (yes, $14 tacos are still expensive, but they're all tourist traps).  We did enjoy our dinner right by the ocean, however, and the fun started after dinner when we walked around the resort and scope out where we will be spending most of our time the next day.

Hotel room, and more

Saturday 10am - Brunch & Beach

Have you ever seen Corona commercials, where the camera shows an ice-cold Corona and a secluded beach in the background?  It was pretty much our beach, except we have watiers taking orders of Coronas and drinks with umbrella on top.  Before beach and drinks, however, a good brunch buffet couldn't be missed, and was included in our hotel reserveration.  We had fresh juice and all-you-can-eat omlet, smoked salmon, fruits and some random Mexican dish (which actually changed everyday). 

While hanging out at the beach, you will be solicited by various vendors selling you jewelries, rags, boat tours, and other water activities.  The only things I'd recommend is a boat tour to the Arc, because I wasn't able to find and book the tour in advance.  Other activities, such as my personal favorite - jet ski - can be booked in advance and will save you up to 40%!

Beach with a view of the Arc just around the corner

Saturday 6pm - Dinner and night out downtown

Whenever I'm traveling, I always love to sample local cuisine.  But I got sick of Mexican food by day 2 of the trip, which was a bummer because, well, we were in Mexico!  We did try a restaurant we found on Trip Advisor called Mi Casa, and it turned out to be a land mine.  Fortunately, the downtown pier area has a wide variety of American restaurants, such as Jonny Rockets, Hard Rock Cafe, and Burger King.  After an unsuccessful meal at Mi Casa, we turned to the familiar Hard Rock Cafe.  The funny thing was that I had never been to a Hard Rock Cafe until then, so my first time was in a foreign country.

Sunday 11am - Brunch by the pool

The pool was probably the best thing about the resort.  You already saw some pictures, but here's one more (with cruise ship in the background).

Our vacation didn't just end there, but you do get a hang of how we spent the next two days.  Yup, we were either by the pool bar, inside the pool, sitting by the beach, or walking around downtown and enjoying a gelato. 

But anyway, our 48 hours is up, and I'd like to close with a brief comparison with my other beach vacation - Maui.  The biggest difference, which I'd say that this is both an advantage and disadvantage of vacationing in Cabo, is that Cabo is culturely different.  In Mexico, anybody can harrass you as much as they want, and you just have to get used to saying "No" or "Not now."  Even if you feel like buying something, you'll have to haggle with broken Spanish so they can understand you.  You will basically be under constant stress worrying about whether you got ripped off or not.  This will, of course, never happen in Hawaii.  The culture and privacy you receive in American soil could just make your vacation.  However, everything considered, our trip was half the price of Maui, so it could be a steal if you wanted to visit Cabo right now.  I know we definitely enjoyed it, and I'm sure you will too!

Singapore is a vibrant city that is known for its diversity and culture.  It has several districts that are all filled with unique sights, excellent food, vibrant nightlife, and much more. There's a little bit of everything here and you'll leave feeling as though you've explored more than just one spot in Asia. The mix of traditional and modern also provides the perfect mix of things to do  and see. 

Singapore River with the city in the background. Photo by williamcho.

Saturday 9 am – Changi Museum War Trail

This walking tour by The Original Singapore Walks will give a look at the Japanese Occupation during the World War II period. The tour guide brings great insight and knowledge to the walk and you'll get to learn about a significant part of Singapore history.  It includes stops at the Changi Museum and Changi Chapel. If you're planning on going on a tour on a different day check out their large variety of tours they give in other districts throughout Singapore. 

Saturday 1 pm – Little India

After your tour head over to the colorful and lively Little India and explore the shops. You can get to the district easily by public transit. A great place to visit would be the Tekka Centre, a market that’s said to be the heart of Little India. Here you explore the many shops for saris, spices, produce, flowers and more. Its perfect place for unique souvenirs to bring home. The main street Serangoon Road is also great for exploring shops. 

If you’re looking to experience some of the area’s culture and history then head over to the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of the oldest temples in Singapore. The temple is dedicated to Hindu Goddess Kali and features beautiful and ornate architecture. 

While you're in the area stop at the coffee shop across the street, Azmi Muslim, for some excellent chapatis, Indian bread, and curries. You can watch them make the chapatis while you wait for your food. 

 The Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. Photo by Sean Munson. 

Saturday 5 pm – Clarke Quay

The first thing to do in the Clarke Quay area is go on a boat tour. Located along the Singapore River a boat tour is a great way to get a unique view of the district before exploring it. After, a stop at the Merlion statue at entrance of the Singapore River is a must. The Merlion statue is a symbol of Singapore and great photo stop, with views of the city as well. 

The area is known for the restaurants and bars, so enjoy dinner and drinks after you're done seeing the sights. A great restaurant for dinner is Jumbo Seafood. This Chinese-style restaurant is known for their chili crab, a messy but delicious crab dish loved by all. Even if you don't get the crab dish, they're known for very fresh seafood and delicious dishes. 

Bars won't be hard to find here but if you're looking for a cool spot check out China One/Baize, a pool hall and bar combination. Its a popular spot with the locals, and is fun for a few games of pool while you hang out and meet new people. Sometimes you'll be lucky enough to get to watch some pros out playing pool. 

Sunday Option 1  – Singapore Zoo

A great option for today is to head over to Singapore’s famous Zoo, known to be one of the most spectacular in the world. The zoo displays their animals in open exhibits that give the entire zoo a more natural feel and is home to the largest captive orangutan group in the world.  It’s a wonderful place to visit and to see many animals that you normally wouldn’t see in zoos in the United States. They also have a night safari that provides the opportunity to observe their over 1,000 nocturnal animals during their peak activity. It’s a very unique way to explore the zoo that you won’t experience anywhere else. 

White tigers at the Singapore Zoo. Photo by Eustaquio Santimano.

Sunday Morning – National Museum of Singapore

Start your day off with some history at the National Museum of Singapore, their oldest museum. Although around since 1849, its still very modern in the ways it presents the history and experience you’ll get out of visiting. A unique aspect is that the museum is divided into two separate galleries – the Singapore History Gallery and the Singapore Living Gallery. After leaving the museum you’ll truly feel like you learned about a little bit of everything. 

Check out some authentic Indonesian cuisine nearby at Ayam Penyet Ria. If you love your food spicy order some of their chili and if you eat make sure to order their ayam penyet, or “smashed chicken.” The food is delicious and the service is quick. 

Sunday Afternoon - Spa Botanica or Orchard Road (shopping)

Spend these next few hours indulging and pampering yourself. A great option to check out is Orchard Road, a street known for high-end shopping. This area carries pretty much any item that you could think of and will keep busy for hours. Even if you’re not looking to spend tons of money it’s an interesting place to walk around and people watch. 

If you’re looking for something a little more relaxing look into spending the afternoon at Spa Botanica, a garden spa in Sentosa. Pick from a large variety of options, including mud pools, meditation rooms, or walking their private gardens. Their most popular package is the three-hour Singapore flower ritual, which includes a variety of massages, bath, and lunch. This is the ultimate destination if you’re looking to experience some luxury and relaxation on your trip. 

A shot of Orchard Road. Photo by williamcho.

Sunday Dinner - Lau Pa Sat Festival Pavilion 

Come hungry and be prepared to indulge in some of the greatest food Singapore has to offer. Lau Pa Sat Festival Pavilion is a block long and has over 70 stalls with a variety of cuisines and a great atmosphere. Order a few different dishes amongst your group so you get to try all that they have to offer. And make sure to order some satay! 

Sunday Evening – Emerald Hill

After you’ve eaten to your heart’s content head over to Emerald Hill and enjoy their excellent nightlife scene. There are many bars and clubs in the area but here are two suggestions for places to check out. 

The first is No. 5, a bar that’s a favorite destination for tourists and locals alike. They’re known for their rustic feel, unpretentious environment, and great drinks. If you’re not in the mood for dancing then head up to the second floor where you can play some pool. 

While you’re in the area also check out Que Pasa, a wine bar with around 70 to 100 labels. The spiral staircase and artwork adds to the cool and comfortable ambience of the bar.  They also have an excellent tapas menu if you find yourself wanting a little something to eat with your drink. 

Where to Stay

Raffles Hotel 

1 Beach Road

Raffles Hotel is somewhere you must stay at least once in your life, so if your budget permits stay here! You’ll be surrounded by elegance and immaculate facilities and service.  The historic hotel features many restaurants, a pool, shopping, spa and many other amenities. Make sure to stop by the Long Bar and try their famous Singapore Sling, a cocktail that features gin, pineapple juice, Cherry Heering, and Benedictine. 

Perak Hotel

12 Perak Road

If you’re looking for more of a bargain then this is the hotel for you. It’s located in the heart of Little India and is the perfect base point for your explorations. Its family-run, with great service and an ideal place if you’re looking for a less typical hotel experience. Although right in the middle of all its still in a quiet area and small enough where you can relax after a long day of sightseeing. 

Barcelona is a city full of character and life. Located along the Mediterranean coast, the city boasts wonderful beaches and great food, with especially great seafood. Barcelona has great shopping, museums, and churches that will keep you on your feet and exploring for hours. The city is also known for its unique architecture throughout which helps keep all the walking interesting and fun. 

Saturday 9 am – La Sagrada Familia  

Begin your trip with one of, if not the greatest, architectural projects you will ever see. Designed by Antoni Gaudi, this massive Roman Catholic Church has been under construction since 1882 and completion isn’t expected to happen until at least 2026! The spires on the church rise over 100 meters and, when completed, the tallest spire is planned to be 180 meters. Take the 400 stairs to the top and enjoy some views of Barcelona, check out the crypt where Gaudi is buried as well, and in general just wander and enjoy Gaudi’s unique designs. 

Saturday 11 am– La Rambla

La Rambla is the most famous street in Barcelona and is actually a series of boulevards that connects the Placa de Catalunya to the Monument a Colom. There are an abundance of shops, restaurants, and cafes along the street with a pedestrian area in the center. Spend the afternoon wandering the shops and hang out in the pedestrian area where you can people watch and be entertained by street performers.  

For lunch stop at La Boqueria Mercat, a large public market that has some great food and is fun to wander and explore. Eat some fresh produce, seafood, or at one of the many tapas bars. Even if you decide to eat lunch elsewhere this market is still worth a trip just to experience the radiant colors and atmosphere. 

If you’re looking to browse unique shops visit the side streets Carrer del Carme and Carrer del Hospital. They both have a very wide variety of shops that are perfect for window shopping or picking up cool souvenir items you won’t find elsewhere. 

Saturday 3 pm – Olympic Grounds

Although most people in Barcelona no longer take siestas in the traditional sense, many smaller shops and less touristy destinations will close between the hours of 2 pm and 4 pm. This is a perfect opportunity for you to head back to your hotel or a grassy area and perhaps enjoy a little bit of relaxation and rejuvenation for the rest of your day.

If you’re looking to keep on trekking through your day then head over to the stadium used in the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona. Although built and ready in 1929 the stadium had to wait 63 years until finally used for the Olympic events. It’s a fun place to walk around and imagine what it’d be like to watch and experience the Olympics there. If you’d like to explore the surrounding area more take the metro to the Placa Espana exit. The stadium is a 20-minute walk from the metro stop and is a perfect way to spend the afternoon strolling through and familiarizing yourself with a part of Barcelona. 

Sunday 8 pm – Gracia

This area is north of the city center and a great location for the evening if you’re looking to get away from all the tourists and mingle with the locals. In Spain, dinner is served later than in the states and nightlife starts later so prepare for a late dinner and staying out to the wee hours of the morning if you go out. 

For dinner head over to Can Xurrades and enjoy some authentic Catalan and Spanish food. The staff is known to be extremely friendly and the restaurant has a great wine selection. If you like meat make sure to try any of their meat dishes cooked in traditional Catalan style. 

For a place to go afterwards, check out El Dorado which has a great dance floor and drinks. One of the great things about Barcelona nightlife is you don’t have to have a set plan. Just head over to Placa del Sol, an area with lots of bars, and follow wherever the music may take you. 

Sunday Morning – Museu Picasso

The Picasso Museum is a distinct experience because it takes you chronologically through some of Picasso’s work. Picasso himself donated some of his pieces and the museum now boasts a collection of over 3,800 pieces. This is the perfect destination if you’re interested in learning more about and viewing Picasso’s growth as an artist and how his special connection with the city of Barcelona played into his work.  

Sunday Lunch – 7 Portes

For lunch you must go to 7 Portes, a Sunday tradition. It’s one of the oldest restaurants in Barcelona and features great service and wonderful meat and seafood dishes. Many extended families come here on Sundays to enjoy the cuisine and one another’s company. Order: Seafood Paella 

Sunday Afternoon – Park Guell

Spend the “siesta hours” lounging at another Gaudi creation – the Park Guell. This park embodies the seemingly magical essence of Gaudi’s structures. The atypical buildings and beautiful tiling embodies the essence of Barcelona. It’s a beautiful place to spend the afternoon wandering aimlessly and discovering the many quirks to Gaudi’s architecture and design. 

This afternoon is also a great opportunity to enjoy the Barcelona beaches. A great one to head over to is Barceloneta. Its one of the best urban beaches in the world and not far from the main city - there’s a metro spot that’ll take you straight to the area! If it’s sunny this is the perfect area to take a break from the sights, lounge and hang out in the sand.  

Sunday Evening – El Tablao de Carmen

Spend your last night enjoying dinner and a Flaminco show at El Tablao de Carmen. The club was designed to imitate a “typical Spanish artisan village” and can be fun to walk around and explore before the show begins. The show itself is high energy, entertaining, and will keep you engaged from beginning to end.  

Where to Stay?

Marina View B&B

Located right along the water promenade, this bed and breakfast offers beautiful views and great service. It’s also close enough to the city center to make it a convenient location to get to the main city sites and the beaches.  The owner Jose is a friendly and helpful host who will even give you breakfast in bed if desired.  

Casa Camper

This unique boutique hotel is located in the perfect location if you’re looking to be in the city center. They offer distinctive amenities like a full breakfast buffet, free wi-fi, and an all you can eat 24-7 snack bar in the lobby. The staff is also very friendly and accommodating, making your stay at Casa Camper even more memorable.    

Cairo is most commonly associated with its ancient past, but contained within it is also an exciting and stimulating city with plenty of nightlife, sightseeing, restaurants, and places to explore.  Located along the Nile, Cairo is the ideal location if you’re looking to experience some history and to immerse yourself in a culture that you may not be as knowledgeable about.  Although Cairo is now a modern city, it still is much more conservative than the US, so it may be helpful to do some research on acceptable and unacceptable behavior and dress before heading over. This guide is organized so Saturday is spent mostly outside of the main part of the city and Sunday is focused more on exploring the city itself.

Saturday Morning – Great Pyramids and the Sphinx

Start your trip off big with a trip to Giza to see one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Pyramid of Khufu.  Standing 449 feet tall, this structure is sure to amaze you, especially when you consider that all 2 million bricks were laid by hand. Spend the morning exploring the inner chambers and wonders of the pyramid.  Also, make sure to check out the other two pyramids, the many tombs, and the well-known Sphinx.  A perk to coming so early is that you’ll miss some of the larger crowds that come through later in the day.  

Saturday Lunch – Andrea

For lunch head over to Andrea in Giza, a restaurant known for its wonderful, authentic Egyptian cuisine.  Located in the middle of a lush garden, dining here will help you escape all of the tourists at the Pyramids and feel as though you’ve walked into a small oasis. On top of the calming atmosphere the food is delicious, satisfying, exactly what your stomach needs after a long morning of exploration.  Beware of walking into one of the many imitation Andrea’s around the city, which have popped up hoping to latch onto the success of the original. Order: Any Chicken   

Saturday Afternoon – Saqqara and Memphis

Can’t get enough of the pyramids and the ancient history? Then head on over to the Saqqara pyramids. These pyramids are claimed by some to be an even greater than the Pyramids of Giza and are a much calmer atmosphere to experience them in.  You can see the famous step pyramid of Djoser here as well.  

Only ten minutes away from Saqqara is Memphis, the capital of Egypt during the Middle Kingdom. The city was founded in 3,100 BC, which gives you an idea how much history is held within what’s left of the city. They have an outdoor exhibit with many of the artifacts that were found in archaeological digs in the area that’s fun and interesting to explore.  

Saturday Evening – La Bodega

End your day with dinner and drinks at La Bodega, a hidden gem within the city. It literally is hidden from street view in a hotel building so make sure to get detailed instructions on where to find it online before you wander the streets looking for it.  La Bodega is known to be where Cairo’s hippest crowd comes to, and is the place to go for a wonderful meal in an elegant atmosphere.  Also, with the strength of the dollar in Cairo, you’ll get a very nice upscale meal for a very reasonable price compared to the States. Make sure you try their homemade focaccia!  

Sunday Morning – Egyptian Museum or Al Azhar Park

If you’re craving to learn more about Egypt’s past then check out the Egyptian Museum, which has an extensive collection of ancient artifacts and pieces.  See items from the tomb of Tutankhamen, ancient Egyptian jewelry, mummies and more! With over 136,000 items on display this museum will keep engaged and in awe for hours.  

If you’re looking for a break from all of the sightseeing and history, then visit an oasis in the middle of the city at the Al Azhar Park.  Come to the park to relax and enjoy the beautiful gardens, landscaping, and panoramic views of Cairo.  It’s loved by locals and tourists alike and is a must-see beauty before you leave. 

Sunday Lunch – Midan Tahrir

Get lunch to go and enjoy it at the Midan Tahrir, the public square in the center of Cairo. It’s a great place to come observe the locals and get a better feel for the city.  Also known as “Liberation Square” this is the area is popular for political protests, which can get very rowdy and are most likely something that you should avoid if you come across.  The American University of Cairo is right next to the square if that’s an area you’re interested in exploring as well. 

For a place to grab lunch check out Koshary el-Tahrir, which serves the popular Egyptian food koshary - macaroni, lentils, rice, chick peas and fried onions covered in spicy tomato sauce. Koshary el-Tahrir is said to have some of the best koshary in the city so stop by and enjoy some Egyptian “fast food.” 

Sunday Afternoon – Khan El Khalili

Khan El Khalili is a large bazaar that’s still reminiscent of the time when Cairo first emerged as a major center of trade.  Wander the countless stalls for gold, silver, art, and many gifts and pieces. Its a great place to go for some unique souvenirs from your trip. 

While your exploring check out El-Fishawi Café, the oldest café in Cairo.  It used to be a popular location for local artists to meet and now is a great place to go and watch the hustle and bustle of the market.  They’re best known for their teas and sheesha (water pipe) so sit down and enjoy your favorite tea and sheesha in their distinctive atmosphere. 

Sunday Evening - A Night Out 

End your stay with a night out on the town. Here are few suggestions for some places to check out for a fun night in Cairo.

Start out at the Windows of the World, the bar on the 36th floor of the Ramses Hilton. Its a wonderful place to grab dinner and some drinks because it has on of the most beautiful views of Cairo. After dinner you can hang out and enjoy the live music and view of the illuminated city and Nile River. 

The Cairo Jazz Club is also great place to go if you’re looking for a place to enjoy great music and company. They play all varieties of music, not only jazz, and is known to be filled with a hip and cool crowd. Come here if you want to meet and hang out with people from not only Cairo but also from around the world. 

Where to Stay 

Talisman Hotel de Charme

39 Talat Harb Street, Cairo, Egypt

If you're looking to stay at a hotel thats not too touristy and gives you more of a feel of Cairo then this is the hotel for you. It is conveniently located in downtown Cairo and has a staff that will treat you like royalty.  Although in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city, inside the hotel is a quiet and charming oasis. 

Sofitel Cairo El Gezirah

3 El Thawra Council St Zamalek, Cairo 11518, Egypt

If you're looking for more of a luxurious hotel then look into the Sofitel Cairo El Gezirah. Located on the Nile River this hotel has beautiful views of the water and city. It also has excellent restaurants and an exceptional staff. You'll be living in the lap of luxury and still walking distance from many of the best sites and places it go in the city! 

Paris, known as the City of Lights, is a beautiful place often associated with romance and beauty. The city is huge and divided into districts that each seem to take on their own personality and atmosphere.   With so many restaurants, shops, galleries, and sights, it seems as though you could spend years here and never fully experience it all.  The following itinerary is meant to help you navigate it all and hopefully narrow down your options!

Saturday 9 am – Baguettes

You can’t visit Paris without getting a baguette and there’s no better place to grab one than Eric Kayser’s.  With lines often out the door, this bakery’s bread and pastries has a reputation for being one of the best.  They have multiple locations throughout the city so stop by and indulge.  

Saturday 11 am – Montmartre Walking Tour

Get to experience the 18^th Arrondissement with tour guide Chris at City Free Tour.  He’ll walk you through the area and highlight sites like Van Gogh’s house and the Sacre Coeur Basilica and include stories from Paris, past and present. Best of all, the tour is free! If this isn’t the area you were looking to explore more check out their other free walking tours they offer on their website - http://www.cityfreetour.com/home/.>  

 

Saturday 2 pm – Explore Le Marais

This hip neighborhood is in the heart of Paris (the 3^rd arrondissement) and has an abundance of cheap thrift stores and other shops for you to spend your afternoon exploring. Le Marais is the perfect place for you to go to get away from the tourists and experience the “real” Paris. 

Walk the street Rue des Rosiers which is described as the “Jewish Quarter” and where you can find some of the best falafels you have ever tasted at L'As du Falafel.  They have lines out the door and the entire lunch is said to be a great experience, from the falafels themselves to the fun and boisterous staff. 

Bring your lunch and enjoy it at Place de Vosges, the oldest square in Paris. It’s the perfect place to take a break from sightseeing and to observe and interact with locals who are there hanging out and eating lunch. 

L'As du Falafel. Photo by Aschaf. 

Saturday 5 pm – Latin Quarter

Start your evening off at the Brasserie Balzar in the Latin Quarter. Known more for its atmosphere and eccentric waiters than for its food, this bistro is where intellectuals used to and still come to discuss and debate while eating their meals. Past customers include Sartre and Camus. Come here for a guaranteed great experience and environment with your dinner. 

After dinner explore the Quarter for dancing and nightclubs.  It’s the perfect place to start the night because there always is so much going on.  While you’re their check out Café Universel to experience some of the jazz music the area is so famous for.  They never charge a cover and feature jazz musicians from around the world. 

The Latin Quarter at dusk. Photo by austinevan.

Sunday Morning – Eiffel Tower or le Jardin des Plantes  

The Eiffel Tower is a must if it’s your first time visiting the city. Head over in the morning, ride to the top, and enjoy the views with a cup of coffee. It’s the most-visited paid monument in the world for a reason! 

If you’ve already seen the Eiffel Tower and are looking for another to beauty to explore with your morning head over to the Jardin des Plantes.  This is the main botanical garden in the city and is located in the 5^th arrondissement.  Walk through the beautiful gardens or check out the galleries they have as well. 

Le Jardin des Plantes. Photo by Djof.

Sunday Lunch – Angelina’s on Rue de Rivoli

Head over to Angelina’s, located in the 1^st arrondissement for delicious hot chocolate and lunch before you explore the Louvre.  Made from melted chocolate bars this hot chocolate will be sure to satisfy any chocolate lover.  For lunch their quiches and salads are said to be quite good, as well as any dessert. Order: L’African (the hot chocolate)  

Sunday Afternoon – The Louvre or Musee d'Orsay

After filling yourself up on delicious food and sweets walk over to the Louvre if you’ve never been there. Although too huge to get through in one afternoon, this museum is the home to many masterpieces, including, of course, the Mona Lisa. Check out which wings and pieces you’d like to see before you get there to best utilize your time.  

If you’ve already been to the Louvre or would like something a little smaller then check out the Musee d’Orsay. The museum has the best collection of Impressionist paintings in the world, with many pieces that you’ll recognize even without much background.  Located in an old railroad station, the museum is small enough for you to make your way through comfortably and without feeling like you had to miss things.  Make sure to buy tickets beforehand so you don’t have to wait in the long lines! 

Sunday Evening – Moulin Rouge

Complete your stay in Paris with a trip to the Moulin Rouge for an extravagant show put on in the spirit of the original.  Enjoy a traditional French dinner while you enjoy the show “Feerie,” which features 69 songs and extravagant costumes. The performance is fun and will keep you entertained all evening. 

Where to Stay?

Hotel Le Six

This modern hotel is located right in the center of Montparnasse and is a perfect central location (right by the metro).  They’re credited with exceptional service and great, comfortable rooms that will make your stay as pleasant as possible.  They also have a stylish bar and spa to cater to all your needs and desires.  

Royal Magda Etoile 

Located in the 17^th arrondissement, this hotel has great service, wonderful rooms, and a great cafe.  Right by the Arch de Triomphe, Champs-Elysées, the buses and metro this hotel is the perfect base for all your sightseeing.  This is the place to book if your looking for excellent value for your money.