Thursday, May 29, 2014

Paris, France

         Paris, "the city of love" is obviously, and rightly so, one of the most popular cities to travel to in the world. If you visit Paris, seeing the Eiffel Tower is a must. Going to the top at night and during the day allows you to indulge in two very different scenes of the city. The Louvre, home of the Mona Lisa is one of France's most prized museums. It holds antiques, sculptures, decorative arts, paintings, prints, and drawings. Notre Dame de Paris, a Catholic cathedral is also one of Paris's most famous attractions. Notre Dame is a great example of the architecture in the 1300's.

         French cuisine for breakfast includes a "quick meal" which consists of French bread with jam and either coffee or tea (children drink hot chocolate). Lunch is severed mid-day, and lasts for two hours. It includes usually a sandwich and dessert for blue-collar workers, and lunch vouchers that can be used in restaurants for white-collar workers. Dinner is served in three courses, the first is an appetizer, the second is the main course, and the last is a dessert or cheese course. Street foods are often a convenience for working people, as well as tourists who are looking to try different types of French cuisine. 




Street Food - Nutella Crepes
The Eiffel Tower at Night

Monday, May 19, 2014

Cape Town, South Africa

         The New York Times has recently come out with its top 52 places to travel and Cape Town, South Africa made first on their list. Cape Town is not only a beautiful place, but it is also home to a very significant part of history. Nelson Mandela found inspiration at Cape Town after being incarcerated on Robben Island. From Robben Island, Mandela and was able to view Table Mountain (in Cape Town) and saw it as a symbol of hope for he would once be there and be free. After his imprisonment, the country decided to transform itself after years of inequality.

         Many visitors are drawn to the peninsula tour where you are able to view the scenic coast line as well as Table Mountain. The mountain forms part of the Table Mountain National Park. The view from Table Mountain is said to be one of the most beautiful and epic images in Africa. The botanic gardens are also a place you should be sure not to miss. The paths through the garden provide a great hiking experience or a nice casual walk. 

        The beaches at Cape Town are ideal for people who want to spend most of their time in the sand. The waters tend to be generally cold but make a good place to cool off after a long day in the sun. 

     


Coastal View 
Night Time


Table Mountain