Independent Travel, Thoughtfully Planned
The Shocking Truth About Tipping in America Tipping is one of the many things that usually shock first-time visitors to America. Back in Europe where I grew up, tipping was a reward for good service. It also was optional, not mandatory! Besides, it was never greater than 5%–10% in restaurants, or just some small change …
To Tip or Not to Tip – a Rant About Tipping in AmericaRead More
From its façade on Mission Inn Avenue in Riverside, California, Tio’s Tacos Restaurant looks like any other Mexican eatery. But behind the wrought-iron fence, between trees and shrubs, lies a unexpected world of bizarre creations.
Tio’s Tacos Restaurant in Riverside, California – A Monumental Fantasy Made RealRead More
If you are planning a trip to Budapest or other parts of Hungary, it’s probably a good idea to learn a few things about the Hungarian people and their customs. This will help you better understand their culture and thus make your visit more meaningful and pleasurable. As someone who’s married to a Hungarian and …
What You Should Know About Hungarians Before You Travel to HungaryRead More
The Hawaiian Islands are surrounded by many beautiful legends – stories of gods and men, love and betrayal, goodness and evil. Some of these tales have been around for so long, that they are now deeply rooted into the Hawaiian culture. Like most indigenous people, Hawaiians explained everything through myths and folk tales of passion. Almost …
8 Fascinating Hawaiian Legends That Few People KnowRead More
Quebec City is home to some of the world’s most famous hotels. Who hasn’t heard of Le Château Frontenac, or Le Germain? And yet, there is one that consistently tops off the list of the Best Hotels in Canada: the unrivaled Auberge Saint-Antoine. Nestled in Old Town Québec in the picturesque Petit-Champlain district, Auberge Saint-Antoine …
Is Auberge Saint Antoine the Best Place to Stay in Quebec City?Read More
Somewhere in the Verdugo Hills, between Downtown Los Angeles and Glendale, lies the largest religious painting ever painted: The Crucifixion. The painting is displayed in the Hall of the Crucifixion, a massive structure which is part of the Forest Lawn Cemetery in Glendale. At the top of the building is a huge cross that lights …
“The Crucifixion” – the Largest Painting Ever PaintedRead More
I didn’t know what to expect when I checked into Quebec City’s Monastère des Augustines that afternoon. Are there going be nuns at the reception desk, or serving at the restaurant? The modern glass structure that greeted me was not even vaguely reminiscent of a convent. And yet, the silence that flows with the light all across the sheer white …
Monastère des Augustines: an Unconventional Hotel in Quebec CityRead More
Budapest has a reputation for being a party city, but few visitors know how complex and eccentric the city’s nightlife really is. From rooftop bars and decadent spa parties to jam-packed discos, Budapest has an abundance of venues where you can slam a drink or dance till dawn. On our latest visit to Budapest we stumbled upon …
Driving in the Balkans and along the Adriatic Coast is one of the most beautiful routes in Europe. If you come well prepared, you’ll have a blast on this journey. However, there are a few things you need to consider before starting your Balkan road trip itinerary.
