London left me with a good impression

My last day in London has finally come. With a bit of sadness, I got up and started packing. I had about 7 hours before my flight. So, I had to explore a little bit more. This time I didn’t have a plan. I just wanted to wander about.

Manson House Place in London photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

With my small suitcase, I got on the tube and stopped at a random station. It was near downtown and close to the London Bridge. This was on the Mansion House Place. Walking around felt so unreal. I know I have done this many times. Yet, I started thinking deeper on this very topic while wandering around. As I walked reality hit me. The thought of waking up in one country than falling asleep in another that is across an ocean is amazing. We usually take this for granted. However, humanity has gone far. A trip from New York City to London would take months before airplanes. Writing this now that we are in a pandemic, my thoughts that day have a bigger impact looking back. Humanity even in dark times always finds a way to adapt and improve. It would be interesting how the future of travel will look like in 50 years. Will a flight from New York to Sydney take 5 hours by then? Will we be able to travel to Mars and other planets? All this thinking and being lost in my head was suddenly put to a stop. A few drops of rain brought me back into the present. However, it’s crazy we still don’t have a direct commercial flight to Sydney from New York City.

Piccadilly Circus, London’s “Times Square” photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Got back on the tube and got off at the Piccadilly Circus. I was told by a friend to visit here. It wasn’t on my list of tourist attractions to see. However, the stop on the tube showed up and I got off. The reason why I wasn’t too excited to visit this landmark was the comparison to Times Square. I didn’t really want to see anything that reminds me of being back home. Yet, there I was. Seeing London’s “Times Square.” It was very small to it’s New York’s Counterpart. Also, there was a lot more traffic. Similar to when Times Square allowed cars to pass by. Now, you can only pass by on foot. Still felt very commercial-like. I wonder how much it would cost to put an ad up there.

The grey clouds of London photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

The clouds started to darken up. I know this happens all the time. Rain is unavoidable here. Yet, it was like the city of London felt the same about me leaving. London is really beautiful in a sophisticated way. Everything started to get grey and gloomy. Sadly, I can see why the U.K has a big problem with Suicide. It’s actually the biggest cause of death to Men under 45. This constant grey sky can really affect the mood of the locals. I’m glad the Usa has options in what type of weather you would like to live in. Sometimes you can take your own country for granted.

London eye on a cloudly day photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

On one of the stops I got off, a giant Ferris wheel was out in the distances. I made it my mission to see this Ferris wheel up close. Started asking the underground station workers how to reach this unmistakable landmark. Learned from the workers that this Ferris wheel is nicknamed The Eye Of London. After a quick tube ride and about a 15-minute walk, I was there. Being in front of this landmark, reminded me of my fear of heights. Still, the sight was beautiful. Only I wish I had more time to see it at night. Regardless, this trip to London was amazing and I can’t wait to go back.

Thank you so much for reading! Stay safe everyone! Wash your hands! Much Love! Sorry for not posting last week. I needed the time to sleep and relax. I wasn’t trying to burn out. Thank you so much for your support!!

Check out our eBook “How to Travel for Dirt Cheap” by Hugo Morel for ways to make your dreams of traveling come true without breaking the bank. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07M848M47?ref_=pe_3052080_276849420&fbclid=IwAR0_mRF-eE9tODIshljVr7CQ8h6vKT6hHn_8gZfJ94DySY1ylPO2Itu2Qe

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September 12, 2020 15

Top 10 things to do in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey has always been a city I wanted to visit. It’s been on my bucket list for a long time. Ironically, every time I want to visit, events out of my control prevent me. This is to show you all why Istanbul should be on your list. Or at least, it will give you a reason to revisit this historical city.

So here are the top 10 things to do in Istanbul!

1) Visit The Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) And Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

Probably one of the most famous things to do in Istanbul. The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque are world-known landmarks. The history behind these buildings is so rich. The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque was once the largest church in the eastern Roman Empire. Built by the Roman emperor Justinian the Great, The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque has been a staple center in the city’s history. From the Romans to when the Ottomans took over, The Hagia Sophia has stood beautifully. It was converted to a mosque in 1453 by the ottomans. In 1935, Hagia Sophia was turned into a Museum to becoming a mosque again this year in 2020. Have a walk in history, where Islam and Christianity are deeply rooted in one building.

Now the Blue mosque should not be ignored. It was built by Sultan Ahmet I to reassert Ottoman power. The beauty of the Blue is hard to match. Not too far from Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, it is a must-have when visiting Istanbul. Be in awe with the blue tiles and architecture.

2) Have a taste of Two Continents

Çiğ köfte

Where East meets West. Have a taste of Asia and Europe while drinking some Turkish Coffee. From what friends have told me, Turkey is surprising European. Most expected it to be more Middle Eastern or Arab. However, they learned it is a mixture of the two continents. Anywhere where cultures blend, the food tends to be amazing. Turkey definitely proves that statement right. I have eaten Turkish food in New York City. Yet, all my friends that have been to Turkey have told me there is a difference. It’s like having Italian food in Italy vs pizza hut. There is just no comparison. Try Etli ekmek, a Turkish pizza-like dish with a beer. Yes, a beer in a Muslim majority country. There are tons of bars in Istanbul. You can have Shish Kebab with middle eastern spices that can match anything in the Arab world. If you want something more European, Çiğ köfte which is the Turkish version of steak tartare. Turkey has a mixture of two beautiful continents and shows it in its cuisine. A Food tour is definitely one of the things to do in Istanbul.

3) Explore the less touristic neighborhood of Ortaköy

Ortaköy is a neighborhood in Istanbul that is not easy to get to. Unless you know about this area. You have to take a bus or a ferry from the Kabatas tram stop. At night you can have to use a taxi to get in or out of this area. Might be difficult to find this neighborhood. However, it is worth the trouble. During the day, you get breathtaking views of the Bosphorus bridge while sipping some Turkish coffee. At night time, this the club hub. You get a beautiful view of the bridge at night while hearing music blasting from the nightclubs. If you do end up going here, you need to know this. It is somewhat becoming the “hipster and yuppie” area. So, everything will become more expensive as time goes on.

4) Cross the Bosphorus bridge

The bridge that connects two continents together. Its beauty is breathtaking and will leave you in awe. Sadly, you are not allowed to walk across the bridge anymore. You have to drive or take a cruise. Yet, that shouldn’t stop you from seeing this bridge in person. You literally will be in another continent once you cross it. This is definitely should be on your list of things to do in Istanbul.

5) Visit the many museums of Instanbul

Instanbul is blessed to be a city with so much history. Everywhere you turn there is 1000’s of years worth of history just waiting to be found. You can stop by the Topkapi Palace Museum (Topkapi Sarayi Müzesi). It was once the home of the Ottoman Sultans. With only about 11 dollars, you get to see how the Sultans lived. Also, stop by the Istanbul Archaeological Museums. It has many artifacts like Islamic coins and a tomb that dates back to the 1st century. It is truly worth the trip if you are into history.

6) Visit the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici)

If you are in Istanbul, you have to visit this landmark. The Basilica Cistern is Istanbul’s largest surviving Byzantine cistern. For those who don’t know, a cistern is a place where rainwater is collected. This Cistern once supplied water to the Great Palace of Constantinople. The Great Place was once the home of many emperors for 100’s of years. There are statues of Medusa’s Head lurking about. I’m sure it must be a creepy place to visit at night. Imagine walking through here at midnight on Halloween. Tours can be very expensive. Make sure to watch out for the prices. It can range from 40 dollars to about 600!

7) Stop By the Dolmabahçe Palace

Near the Bosphorus Bridge, stands this beautiful building. Its mixtures of styles are the ultimate symbol of Istanbul’s history. It was built in the 1800s, for the last Ottman sultan. The building’s architecture is mixed with Arab and European designs. The tickets lines are long here and the ticketing offices close early. So, it is best to visit earlier in the day.

8) Check out the Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)

To get a breathtaking view of the city, you must stop by the Galata Tower. It was once a jail. However, it was restored in the 1960s. They added an observation deck making this tower a tourist hot stop. There is also a nightclub and restaurant at the top of the tower. In case you haven’t noticed, Istanbul has a strong nightlife. If you are into those types of things.

9) Take a stroll at the Grand Bazaar (Kapaliçarsi)

Visiting Istanbul will not be complete if you do not stop by the Grand Bazaar. Get a feel of the Middle East while walking through the many shops of the Grand Bazaar. I have been to a few Bazaars throughout my trips. It is always filled with life and energy. Kind of reminds me of the wall street movies. From carpets to random artifacts, you can find almost anything here. From what friends and many other people say, this Bazaar is not pushy like the ones in the Middle East. In my past trips, one of the workers would follow you for a bit telling you all the deals. Here in Instanbul, that is not the case. The merchants are friendly. However, don’t let that fool you. They still want to get as much money from your pockets as they can. So, be prepared to bargain if you want to buy something. There also two Turkish bathhouses located here. Truly worth the trip!

10) Take a Coffee and Tea Tour

Turkish coffee is known throughout the world. If you are a coffee person, it would be a shame not to go on a coffee-sipping tour. There are many tour companies that take you to the best coffee shops in Istanbul. You can learn to make Turkish coffee! It is definitely worth the tour fee. A lot of coffee tour companies also offer tea tours. For those who don’t know, Turkish tea is pretty good. They add sugar to it. It’s similar to the teas of North Africa. Hint, they were once a part of the Ottoman Empire. Taking a Coffee and Tea tour is should be on your list of things to do in Istanbul.

Thank you so much for reading! Stay safe everyone! Wash your hands! Much Love!

For videos about cultures of the world and to see our travels, subscribe to our youtube channel!

For my underwater photos, I use the gopro hero 7 white.

September 2, 2020 12

Seeing past the differences: having an understanding of the LGBT community

Im not here to start a political argument or to have some type of an agenda behind this post. Since, I know that the USA political party conventions are going on now. This post is just to show how much I grown as a person throughout my travels. From someone who was homophobic to someone who now has compassion towards this community’s struggles. I’m a straight guy so I know I will never fully understand what this community goes through but at least I have a small idea of the issues. Please read this post with an open mind.

The rainbow flags photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

After exploring London for a little bit more, nightfall came by quick. I wanted to explore the neighborhood my Airbnb was in a little bit more. The more I walked around, the more rainbow flags I saw. It was clear that this neighborhood, Soho had a theme of sexual freedom. From the restaurants that look like sex shops to the actually sex shops. I was definitely glad that I traveled without kids because that talk about the items at the stores would had been awkward.

A random person in Soho photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Back to the exploring, the music blasted loud from the buildings. People were enjoying their night. I was taking photos and this person in the photo above showed up. I still have no idea who they are. Either way, the place was really alive. It was as if, the sun never came down. The people acted like tomorrow was not monday.

A gay sex shop photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

I took a picture of a sex shop like it was normal. Before being around this type of environment would had made me very uncomfortable. It’s crazy how much I changed. Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area, most people would think we would not be homophobic. However, it’s the opposite. Homophobia runs deep in the Bay Area. Especially within the Hispanic and Black communities. We used to avoid going to the Castro district in San Francisco. We would jokingly say don’t pick up money in the streets of the Castro district. Even mocking the community with offensive slurs. It wasn’t until I traveled to the Middle East that my eyes opened up. I mentioned it before in another post. One of my friends in Dubai was gay. He was one of the people that showed me around dubai. After sitting down and have a conversation, I learned the issues the LGBT community goes through. In the Middle East, being gay can get you killed if you are caught. In the west, it’s not that extreme. However, I had heard stories from people being jumped just for being LGBT. So, the issue is still there.

The neon bikes photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

I know there’s not much I can do to change the minds of grown adults. However, at least I can change the minds of the people around me. One conversation at a time. Being comfortable in this neighborhood was a reflection of my personal growth. People are people regardless of who they are and what they are into. Hopefully, one day everybody can live in peace and without fear.

Thank you so much for reading! Stay safe everyone! Wash your hands! Much Love!

For videos about cultures of the world and to see our travels, subscribe to our youtube channel!

For my underwater photos, I use the gopro hero 7 white.

August 29, 2020 13

5 things to do in San Jose California

For those who have been reading this blog for a while, you all know that I grew up in the Bay Area. I’m sure some of you are somewhat annoyed at how times, I remind you all this. (Yes, I have some self- awareness) However, I wanted to start this series where I grew up. Everybody knows about San Francisco and Oakland. Yet, San Jose is often overlooked. This post is to show you all why San Jose is a great travel destination. Also, why it’s definitely worth the trip!

Here are 5 things to do in San Jose California!

1) Exploring nature at Castle Rock State Park

Just outside of San Jose California, Castle Rock State Park is a great place to see the beauty of California. Best to come during spring, this state park has a lot to offer. Due to the forest fires issues in California that happen yearly. From hiking trails to camping grounds. This is one of the awesome things to do in San Jose California. Unfortunately, due to what is happening in the world the state park is closed right now and they are having issues with the water pipes. So, camping grounds do not have access to water. However, once it reopens, Castle Rock State Park will be a great place to explore nature and getting a break from city life. Which is what I love about California, a 30-minute drive can take you to some of the most beautiful natural sites Usa has to offer.

2) Visit Downtown San Jose

Although not as flashy as Downtown San Francisco, San Jose’s downtown has a lot to offer. From shopping to seeing what the future of tech has in store. Downtown San Jose should be on your list of things to do in San Jose California. Drink beer while seeing the downtown tourist sites on San Jose’s Brew Bike. I’m not much of a beer person; however, if you love beer then this is an activity that is for you. You can stop by the Tech Museum Of Innovation and spark your creative side. The museum invites visitors to build their own robots. Check out the SAP Center home of the hockey team the San Jose Sharks and find out what the San Pedro Square Market has to offer. The San Pedro Square Market has been known to have awesome live music and some great Australian coffee. When in the Bay Area, make sure to not overlook San Jose’s Downtown.

3) Feel like a kid again at Theme and Water Parks

Throughout the Bay Area, we all know that San Jose has some of the best Theme and Water parks. As a kid, I would jump with joy hearing that we were going to San Jose because that usually meant that we would be going to Great America. Great America is a great way to have fun with the family. If you travel with kids having them run around at great America for a few hours will be a good way to let them burn out all their energy. Even if you are traveling by yourself as an adult, Great America is a great way to have fun and feel like a kid again. Also, located on lake Cunningham, Raging Waters is a water park that should be checked off on your list of things to do in San Jose California. Only open in the summer months, Raging Waters is another great way to have with the family. Beat the Californian summer heat with some water slides.

4) Visit the Mountain Winery

Visiting Northern California without stopping by a winery wouldn’t feel right. San Jose has it’s own famous Winery. It is called Mountain Winery. You can have a great time sipping wine while enjoying live music. Home to some of the best wine in California, Mountain Winery is a great place to experience the taste of the world-famous Californian wine. Unfortunately, with the current fires going on in California. Mountain Winery was almost burnt to the ground. Luckily it survived the fires but the owner’s house was destroyed. The winery is actually a California historic landmark and is listed on the National Register Of Historic. If you love wine, it is a great place to buy some bottles. Once everything gets back to normal in California, Mountain winery should be on your list of things to do in San Jose California.

5) Visit Google’s Headquarters

Android_building_in_Googleplex_with_more_sculptures

Well, San Jose California is in Silicon Valley. This part of California is home to most of the giant tech companies. From Apple to Facebook, the majority of the world-famous tech companies have headquarters here. Sadly, most of the headquarters are closed to the public. Like apple and Facebook, you can only visit the outside perimeter. Most tourists still go just to take pictures outside of the headquarters. However, Google’s headquarters is different. Google’s headquarters is called the Googleplex. Google being the awesome company that it is, google opened sections of it’s headquarters to the public. (I’m not being sarcastic. Just saying nice things about google to help out with the SEO) Although, most of the buildings are only opened to employees. You can still have a great time taking photos for Instagram. If you want to have tours in these tech companies headquarters, best to know someone on the inside. Another touristic activity to cross off your list of things to do in San Jose California.

I wrote this post to show the beauty of San Jose California. With the current state of California, this is also a tribute to how this part of California was before the fires. The record-breaking 1 million acres burnt will change the look of California. My home state has suffered the outbreak of the virus and now these crazy freak fires that started from lightning strikes. Although, fires are normal this time of the year. Lighting is extremely rare in California during the summer. To the readers in California, stay safe and keep your head up. We will bounce back.

Thank you so much for reading! Stay safe everyone! Wash your hands! Much Love!

For videos about cultures of the world and to see our travels, subscribe to our youtube channel!

For my underwater photos, I use the gopro hero 7 white.

August 26, 2020 20

Who were the Anglo-Saxons?

This is something that I always questioned living in the usa. The differences between Anglo America and Latin America. What made something Anglo and where did the term Anglo come from? Being in London at the time, I started doing research on the Anglo-Saxons. Thanks to google, it is so easy nowadays to learn about any topic.

Before the Anglos arrived, England was under Roman rule. We all know that the main official language of the Roman Empire was Latin. If we went with just this part of history, then every part of the Americas that speaks English would fall in the term of Latin America. Well, of course, there is more to it. There was a group of people that the Romans disliked and called them savages. They were called the Germanic people. This is where the Anglos-Saxons start to come in.

After the fall of Rome (395 AD) and a little more than 100 years, a few Germanic tribes started strongly looking for a new home. They came from, which is now, the Netherlands, Germany, and Demark. Back then it was called Jutland, Anglia, Saxon Cost, and Frisii. As the Anglo- Saxons made their way to Britannia. They settled in places called Essex (east), Sussex (south), and Wessex (west). If you look at the names of where the Saxons settled, you can see where the root words came from. The word Saxons come from the type of knives, the Anglo- Saxons would use. However, from what scholars say, the sex part of the name comes from sax because it was pronounced like sex original. It’s funny to think that when I was a kid, I used to look at streets that were called Essex and laugh. Es in Spanish means is. So, as a kid, I thought the streets meant is sex. Well, doing some research, makes you value and appreciate things in a more interesting light.

The Anglo-Saxons never really considered themselves that term. It was a label given to them by the non-germanic people of Britain. It was a way to distinguish the difference between the two. The Anglo-Saxons spoke what is now called Old English. Eventually, through wars and mixing, the growing population of Anglo-Saxons became the majority. Families of mixed Anglo and Non-germanic had to choose which language/culture, they would grow up in. Families chose to grow up in the Anglo/Germanic culture. Which lead to English becoming the main language of Britain. As you can see, this is why the English speaking parts of the Americas are called Anglo-America and not Latin America. Although French and Latin have heavily influenced English, most of the grammar and core vocabulary comes from the germanic branch. This is why I love history and diving deeper into everything. It gives a better understanding of the world.

Thank you so much for reading! Stay safe everyone! Wash your hands! Much Love!

For videos about cultures of the world and to see our travels, subscribe to our youtube channel!

For my underwater photos, I use the gopro hero 7 white.

references

websites:

https://www.history.org.uk/primary/resource/3865/anglo-saxons-a-brief-history

https://www.historyextra.com/period/anglo-saxon/facts-anglo-saxons-dates/

http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/ancient/anglo_saxons/saxons.shtml

https://www.bl.uk/anglo-saxons/articles/who-were-the-anglo-saxons

youtube:

August 22, 2020 21

Showing appreciation to you all and Blog Update

Hello Everyone!!

Just wanted to say thank you so much for reading my travel stories. I know I mentioned this serval times before; however, I’m always humbled to see the support you all give us. I’m really honored that you all enjoy what I write. Growing up, my worst subject in class was English. Now, people from all over the world read what I write. It’s mind-blowing to even think about it.

Writing this post just to inform you all about a few updates on this blog. On Tuesdays, we will have posts about travel destinations and things to do there. I wrote a few posts in this format before. It seems like you all enjoyed it! I have to start doing this until we are safe to travel again. I have been doing some domestic traveling. However, not enough to keep posting consistently on Tuesdays. Also, I really don’t feel comfortable on airplanes right now. I still have plenty of stories to write about my travels. Yet, I’m not sure how long this current state of the world will continue. So, Saturdays will be like normal and Tuesdays will be this new format.

Once again, thank you all. I really love traveling. It’s my passion to go to other countries and learn about different cultures. Being stuck for 8 months has been a different and difficult experience. I’m sure all of you have felt a similar way. Will do my best to reply to all of the comments. Ironically, I’m not traveling now but I’m actually even busier. I wish you all luck, positivity, and good health. Much love to all of you. Keep safe and stay healthy!

August 19, 2020 22

Passing through Tower Bridge

It was a dark and gloomy day. A normal occurrence in this part of the world. However, it was a lot more cloudy than usual. To my surprise and ignorance, it started to rain hard. Like being hit with a garden hose, I was soaked. I had to find a store that sold ponchos and umbrellas. I was warned by my hosts that it rains unpredictably over here. Being the hardheaded person that was I, that warning went from one ear to the other without being processed in the middle. Regardless, this wasn’t going to stop me from having a good time.

Looking at Tower Bridge from afar photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

After getting a poncho and an umbrella, I was ready to explore more of London. I keep hearing from friends and family about this famous Tower bridge. I was even told that you haven’t been to London unless you have seen the Tower Bridge. Growing in the San Francisco bay, I had to see the hype behind this bridge and compare it to the Golden Gate.

One of the towers of Tower Bridge photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Once I got near Tower Bridge, I was approached by a local that was selling tour bus tickets. Might as well get a view of the Tower Bridge on a bus. Got on the bus and my inner tourist came out. Keep in mind, I was in a poncho the whole time. I always try to not look like a tourist. However, sometimes you just have to go with the flow. With my poncho and I love London hat, I was ready to see this Bridge.

A better view of the first tower photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Passing by Tower Bridge, it was an interesting experience. I learned from the tour guide that this bridge helped put a dent into the traffic problem in London. The cool thing about this bridge is that it still lifts when boats pass by. In the usa, lifting bridges are not the norm. I don’t think I ever saw one during my trips throughout the Usa. I saw people walking above us. It was a clear sign that I have to go back and see this bridge again.

Passing through the second tower photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

The Golden Gate Bridge compared to the Tower Bridge is like old world meets the new world. The Tower Bridge has the medieval feel/look to it. While the Golden Gate looks a lot more modern. However, the bridges were only built about 40 years apart. The Golden Gate (1937) and Tower Bridge (1894) look like they were built 100’s of years apart. These two bridges might as well come from two different eras. This is what I love about traveling outside of the Usa. Even with the newer structures, there is a hint of deeper history in the designs.

Thank you so much for reading! Stay safe everyone! Wash your hands! Much Love!

For videos about cultures of the world and to see our travels, subscribe to our youtube channel!

For my underwater photos, I use the gopro hero 7 white.

August 15, 2020 34

My last meal in Olso

My time in Norway was ending. This beautiful country will leave a mark in my heart. Its sophisticated charm is what lead me to wish this was my home. However, that cold made me reconsider. Had a few more hours here, I needed to make the best of the little time left.

A view of a street in Oslo photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Started to explore the parts I didn’t get to visit on my first go-around. Once again the sun went down quick. Within an hour of being outside, the sky looked completely different. It was 3 pm but it looked like I was walking after midnight. However, there were still people out having a good time. Which was a good sign.

The Indian Restaurant at the top and the Hamburger place on the first-floor photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Eventually, my stomach started growling. I realized I haven’t eaten all day. Started looking for something to eat. Walked about half of a block, until I found two restaurants. One on top of the other. It was either Indian food or hamburgers. Yeah, the hamburger sign was what attracted me. I actually tried the Hamburger place first but everything was self-served. They had screens that you choose what type of burger you want. I think we should start doing this more in the usa. Especially now with social distancing being the norm. Everything was in Norwegian, kept looking for the English option. However, I never found it. That was the excuse I needed to go upstairs and eat some Indian food. I’m sure you all can see, I love Indian food. Sadly, it wasn’t the typical style I have gotten used to.

The food in a fancy presentation photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

The dessert photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Going upstairs was like walking into another country. The atmosphere changed to fit the theme of the restaurant. Indian music was playing in the background. The lights were dim and the carpets reminded me of that Disney movie called Aladdin. I was greeted by one of the Indian chefs. Was shown to my seat. On the menu, it gives a background on the head chef. It was actually a couple, there were both Tamil. The husband was from Sri Lanka and the wife was from India. A commonality I noticed about a few Indian restaurants is that a lot of the chefs tend to be from different parts of the Indian subcontinent. However, I never saw a Pakistani being a chef at an Indian restaurant. I’m sure the tension between the two countries is a major factor.

The food was eventually brought to me. When the plate hit my table, I was a little disappointed. I didn’t notice that this was a fancy restaurant. Not much of a fan of high-end restaurants. The menu and food prices were decently priced. So, I thought this is a normal restaurant. Regardless, I ate the food. It was really good. However, it was not that filling. The plate looked more like I was going to paint something. I will still give respect to the chefs. The food was really good but the quantity was small. Call me low class or whatever but, that’s why I don’t go to fancy restaurants.

The Dominican flag in Norway? photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

After eating, I started walking towards the train station. My time here was almost up. I eventually noticed this advertisement. I literally thought I was in New York City. I didn’t know they had a Dominican and Latino community here. I found out they even have Dominican restaurants like in Nyc. That blew my mind. It’s official, Latinos are everywhere. Like that one annoying Disney ride, it truly is a small world after all.

Outside of the train station photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Eventually, I was outside the train station. I had to say goodbye to such a beautiful county. I will definitely miss this part of the world. The people here were very friendly now that I think about it. Sweden and Norway are a must on everybody’s bucket list. I recommend going during the summertime. However, winter in this part of the world can be majestic.

Thank you so much for reading! Stay safe everyone! Wash your hands! Much Love!

For videos about cultures of the world and to see our travels, subscribe to our youtube channel!

For my underwater photos, I use the gopro hero 7 white.

August 12, 2020 8

Accidentally finding London’s Chinatown

Imagine accidentally walking into a place with beautiful Chinese arches. It was as If, I walked into another country and continent. I almost second-guessed myself. For a few seconds, I thought my trip to London was nothing but an old memory. I was snapped back into reality when I saw signs in English.

The entrance to London’s Chinatown with a paifang photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

It was dark and full of energy. Although, the pictures I took everything looks closed. Two turns away, the streets were full of life. The whole place was interesting. The colors and light they put on the Chinese arches made everything pop out. It is clear that London’s Chinatown is very proud of its heritage.

Another picture of a Paifang photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

I learned that the gateway’arches are called paifang. They were introduced to China from India when Buddhism spread to East Aisa. In the Indian subcontinent, it is called Torana. Throughout East and Southeast Aisa it has a different name. I noticed these patterns and colors on my trips throughout that part of the world. Never knew it was because of the spread of Buddhism via the silk road. That’s what I love learning about history because it helps you connect the dots.

A Chinese restaurant in London’s Chinatown photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Found a few restaurants opened nearby. Never had much of an interest in Chinese food outside of China. I always found it super oily. I heard from friends that the food is very different in China. Sadly, I didn’t get to explore that during my time in Wuhan. I ate at burger king like a true American. From what I read, different parts of China have different styles of cuisines. I learned that Sichuan cuisine is spicey and they flavor their food with Chilli peppers. Which was brought to China from Mexico via the Portuguese in Macao or from the Portuguese colonies in India. Sichuan cuisine comes from the Sichuan province in China. Which is in the middle of china two provinces away from Wuhan. Close to the border with Myanmar. Also, I learned from friends that Cantonese cuisine is sweet. Cantonese cuisine comes from Hong Kong and it’s surrounding areas. I really have to try it one day! However, Chinese food in Chinatowns from any parts of the world, I would probably reject the offer. Unless they were really authentic!

A street in London’s China Town photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

The night was coming to a close. I felt my body could not keep up with all the time changes. I felt like just taking a nap and relaxing. My night time adventures were coming to an end. The reminder that I had another day and a half to explore London made me smile. I couldn’t wait to see what else London had to offer.

Thank you so much for reading! Stay safe everyone! Wash your hands! Much Love!

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For my underwater photos, I use the gopro hero 7 white.

August 8, 2020 7

Stand strong Lebanon! Stay safe everyone!

I was going to write a normal post but I felt it’s more appropriate to give tribute to a country that always bounces back.

This country I have been wanting to visit for such a long time and explore that part of my ancestry. However, there always something happening in this country that made me want to visit later. When the climate was more peaceful. I’m sure most of you all know by now what has happened in Lebanon. Two huge explosions hit the capital city. Everything in a 6-mile radius was hit by the boom of the second explosion. Right now, a confirmed 70 people have lost their lives. If you saw the videos, I’m sure the death toll will probably be near or above 1000. It is currently being under investigation to see if this was a terrorist attack or not. In my heart and gut feeling, I have a suspicion that this was a terrorist attack.

They said it was a fireworks factory that blew up. The first explosion I can see it possibly being caused by what the chemicals fireworks are made out of. However, the second explosion looked different.

Stand strong to a beautiful and small country that always bounced back. A small country that had such a big impact on the world. Through its history, diaspora, and culture.

Stay safe everybody and enjoy your loved ones. There were a lot of people who woke that day thinking it was going to be normal. Who are now not able to have another chance to wake up again.

Only love here!

August 5, 2020 17