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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. 

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.    

This week we’ll be visiting Melbourne, Australia.  Although unlikely that you’d fly out for only two days to visit Melbourne, hopefully this 48-hour guide can sway you to visit the city for a couple days if you already find yourself Down Under.  Melbourne is known to be the culture capital of Australia and one of the best cities in the world to live in.  Melbourne is full of art, shopping, galleries, theaters, great food and drinks, and museums that can keep you busy and entertained for hours. This guide is meant to help you experience a little of everything but if there's anything else you feel readers should be checking out feel free to post it in the comments section. Oh and when you’re there make sure to pronounce it “Mel-buhn” not “Mel-born.” 

Saturday 9 am – Melbourne by Foot

Help yourself get comfortable and familiar with the city you’ll be staying in by starting off with a walking tour of the city. Melbourne by Foot will cover everything you’ll want to know, including some history, sites of the city, current culture, and suggestions of things to come back to after the tour.  The tour guides are fun, extremely knowledgeable of Melbourne, and will keep your mind (and legs) going with fact after fact.   

Saturday Noon – Queen Victoria Market

After a full morning of activity you’ll most likely be ready for some grub and Queen Victoria Market is the perfect place to find all the different types of food you could desire.  This open-air market features wonderful fresh produce, specialty stands, and other shops.  The staff at the market created a comprehensive guide to help visitors navigate the food in the 17-acre area called “Just Eat.”  The informative guide is a great way to help you explore the market and can be downloaded for free on their website. 

While you’re there make sure to stop by the American Doughnut Kitchen.  Their hot jam doughnuts are tradition here and a common snack amongst locals. They claim that their doughnuts are so good people burn their mouths eating them because they don't want to wait for them to cool down before they eat them.  

Saturday 2 pm – Royal Botanical Gardens

Take some of the delicious food you picked up from the Market to the Royal Botanical Gardens for a picture-perfect picnic in the park.  Only a 10-minute ride from the Queen Victoria Market, you can enjoy the beautiful native and non-native plants in one of the best botanical gardens in the world. Referred to by many locals as an oasis and way to escape the city, the Royal Botanical Gardens is the perfect place to go after a long day of walking and to refresh for the evening. 

Saturday Evening – Cookie and Rooftop

Start your evening off with dinner and drinks at Cookie.  They’re described as a restaurant combined with a beer hall and features modern Thai cuisine.  It’s a place where you can come enjoy a good meal along with great drinks and company all at the same time. Their extensive beer and wine list will keep you there long after your meals have been finished. Order – Deep-fried marinated pork ribs. 

After dinner and a few drinks you won’t have to look far for the next bar to head to, just take the elevator all the way up to the Rooftop Bar in the same building.  It’s a bar and cinema space with excellent views of the city and a laidback atmosphere.  See if their screening a film or just sit back and enjoy the views and drinks. 

If you’re itching to explore the city more and check out some of the other bars you’re in the perfect location to do so.  You’re right in the city center with great bars hidden down alleyways so look up a few before you head out.

Sunday – Option 1

If you’re an extreme food and wine lover you might want to consider going on the Epicurean Food and Wine Tour.  They give daylong tours to small groups that take you through a unique food and wine experience in the Yarra Valley.  They pick you up from your hotel and take you to do wine tastings, eat good food, shop, and do it all in a leisurely pace. 

Sunday Morning – National Gallery of Victoria

Start your day off with some beautiful art at the National Gallery of Victoria. It’s the oldest art gallery in Australia and praised for having a beautiful collection. They have two separate gallery locations, one in Federation Square and one in St. Kilda Road, so be sure to check out which special exhibits are at which location before you head out. 

Sunday Lunch – Cutler & Co.

Located in an old machine factory, this restaurant is much more exciting and dazzling than what the space used to be.  The food is divine with beautiful and sometimes unexpected (but still wonderful!) flavors. They have a pre-set Sunday lunch at $65 a person that presents dishes featuring local organic foods.  The dishes are also very large making them easily sharable by the group and the atmosphere relaxed. 

Sunday Afternoon – Brunswick Street

Continue the theme of art into your afternoon and explore Brunswick Street in the Fitzroy Precinct, where art is appreciated and adored by all.  Known to be the area that best reveals the city’s soul, exploring the cafes, bookstores, restaurants, bars, and boutiques here can help give you a sense of how open and accommodating Melbourne is.  If Sunday lunch at Cutler & Co. isn’t so much your scene you could easily find a café serving amazing food and with a great atmosphere. 

If you’re looking to get some unique threads while in Melbourne check out Little Salon.  They specialize in holding distinct local designer items that range from the smallest accessories to clothing to complete your wardrobe. 

Sunday Evening – Tapas and the Theatre

To end your trip, grab dinner at Movida Bar de Tapas.  They serve modern Spanish cuisine and are known to have the best tapas in town. The atmosphere is full of color and the service is great, making it a perfect and fun place to spend your last meal in town at. Order - Roasted Spring Bay Scallop with Jamon and Potato Foam  

After you’ve eaten to your heart’s content go see any of the many musicals and plays they have showing in Melbourne. If you're looking for a bigger production check out what's playing at Princess Theatre or Her Majesty's Theatre.  For something smaller and more local look into the Arts Centre or Malthouse. 

Where to Stay

Langham Hotel Melbourne

1 Southgate Ave.

This luxury hotel, located right on the banks of the Yarra River, features rooms with city views and excellent service and hospitality. On top of the wonderful quality, this hotel is also in an ideal location for exploring the city. You will be surrounded by elegance and comfort during your stay at the Langham. 

Art Series - The Olson

637 - 641 Chapel St 

 This boutique hotel was inspired by the landscape architect Dr. John Olsen, who's art is described as serene and outdoorsy.  The hotel is full of his art, including murals, sculptures, and large prints. In addition to being visually appealing the hotel also boasts a wonderful location on Chapel Street and a staff thats warm, welcoming, and always ready to assist you with whatever you may need. 

Hi! My name is Kira and I'm going to be posting weekly for Duffel. Every Wednesday I'll be picking a new city to explore, planning a 48-hour trip there, and then writing about it here for your reading enjoyment. Check back every week for a "mini vacation" from work and enjoy! 

New Orleans has so much culture and such a unique style that visiting can feel like you’ve left the United States completely. Known for their awesome food, great music, and endless parties New Orleans is where you give in to indulgences and live it up. Here are some suggestions for how to make the most of a 48-hour weekend getaway to the Big Easy.  The trip focuses around arriving Friday morning because of their Friday Lunch tradition (explained more below). 

Friday 9 am – St. Charles Streetcar 

Get a feel for the city by catching a ride on the St. Charles Streetcar.  The St. Charles Streetcars are a historic landmark and only a dollar each way to ride. Jump on at Canal Street and see the gorgeous Garden District, Audubon Park, Tulane and Loyola Universities, and many other classic New Orleans scenes. It’s a 90-minute trip and one of the best ways to experience more of what’s outside of the French Quarter. 

Friday 11:30 am – Galatoires

Friday Lunch should be reason enough for you to want to take a day off of work and head over to the Big Easy a day early.  Friday Lunch has become an institution in New Orleans and is meant to be a time where people come together for good food, good drinks, and a good time overall. Galatoires has obtained the reputation of being the place to go for Friday Lunch.  Although pricey (and jacket required!) the experience is a New Orleans must and is an excellent way to interact with locals and in general mingle and just have fun.  With some people’s lunches lasting all afternoon, the advice given is always to just relax, talk to the people around you, take your time, and enjoy it all!  

Friday 3 pm – French Quarter

Walk off the meal you just ate by exploring the French Quarter.  As the oldest and most famous section of New Orleans, the French Quarter will not disappoint! A great place to start is at Royal Street where you can browse the many antique stores, art galleries, and specialty stores located there.  

If you're looking for a quick caffeine pick-me-up check out Cafe Du Monde, open 24 hours and known for their chicory coffee and beignets.  A good friend informed me that the beignets at Cafe Du Monde are a New Orleans must so pick them up as a treat to sweeten your day.  

Friday Evening – Dinner and Bar Hopping in the French Quarter

For a classic New Orleans dinner head to Tujague’s (pronounced two jacks).  It’s the second oldest restaurant in New Orleans and in addition to their awesome Creole dishes they’re also known to be a pretty great bar!   

If you’re still too full from lunch to consider sitting down for dinner someplace set out for Bourbon Street to start your night.  This is the area to go for nightlife with its countless bars, restaurants, and seemingly never-ending music.  You could easily spend your entire night bar hopping on Bourbon Street alone but if you’re looking for something a little less packed check out Napoleon House.  Locals recommend it as a great place for a meal or for a few drinks and it has a ton of history.Order - Pimm’s Cup drink.   

The view of Bourbon Street from an apartment. Photo by MattPendletonPhotography.

Saturday 10 am – Explore Garden District or Julia Street

This morning is meant for exploring outside of the French Quarter.  If what you saw yesterday morning at the Garden District caught your eye, walk around there to experience beautifully architected homes.  Otherwise, check out the 600 block of Julia Street for some of the best art in the city. A must-see in the Julia Street area is the Contemporary Arts Center (CAC), which has exhibits featuring beautiful and whimsical local art.   

Saturday 1 pm – Do It Like the Locals

The best suggestion for lunch would be to ask a local where they’d eat! However, if you’d like a place in advance check out Café Reconcile for some excellent Southern cuisine and to help out a great cause.  Café Reconcile is a non-profit restaurant that brings in young adults from at-risk communities who are interested in getting into the food service industry and teaching them valuable life skills and job training.  Order – Bananas Foster Bread Pudding (arguably the best in the city!) 

Saturday Afternoon – Museum Hopping

Or if you’re looking to check out some museums the Historic New Orleans Collection is located in the French Quarter and features changing exhibits on local history.  It’s also free!   

Another museum to check out is the Old U.S. Mint, which features both an exhibit on the coin minting process and New Orleans Jazz.  It’s the only building in the U.S. to be used both as a U.S. and Confederate Mint.    

Finally, for a more laidback option check out the New Orleans Jazz Park where you can take walking tours or just check out the atmosphere and relax. 

This afternoon is also a perfect opportunity to check out the many walking and bike tours they have throughout the city.  

Saturday Evening – Dance the Night Away

Experience the music of New Orleans and hang out at Frenchmen Street for the night. Located just outside of the French Quarter, this two-block area is known to be where the locals hang and where you can check out all the live music your heart could desire. Enjoy your drinks and all types of great music without the neon lights and craziness of Bourbon Street. While you’re exploring Frenchmen stop by D.B.A., a local music club that has some of the local’s favorite live artists and a great beer list.  

 Wolfman Washington performing at D.B.A. Photo by Lep. 

Where to Stay?

Avenue Inn Bed and Breakfast (for a place out of the French Quarter) 

4125 Saint Charles Ave.  

This charming mansion is located in the Uptown/Garden District and is a perfect location if you want easy access to many different locations and sites in New Orleans.  Designed by the famous architect Thomas Sully in 1891, the house features beautiful architecture and period furnishings throughout. The live-in innkeepers, Joe and Bebe, are there to ensure that you’re experience at the Avenue Inn B and B is as wonderful as the building surrounding you, helping you make your entire New Orleans experience unforgettable.

Soniat House (in the French Quarter) 

1133 Chartres St.  

If you’re looking to be more in the center of things check out the Soniat House in the French Quarter.  Found in the quieter area of the French Quarter, the Soniat House is a luxury hotel that has been named one of the best in the world.  Comprised of three historic Creole townhomes that were built in the 1830’s, the hotel features many elegant details and beautiful antiques to make your stay there as luxurious and comfortable as possible.  Every morning a complimentary breakfast of Creole café au late, hot biscuits, and homemade strawberry preserves.