5 Tips for Haggling at a Souk in Morocco

At Moroccan souks and bazaars, haggling is a must-have skill for any shopper. 

A merchant haggling with customer. Mait Juriado. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

In Morocco, the marketplace environment can be overwhelming, especially for travelers new to the area. Outdoor marketplaces in Morocco are called souks and commonly hold different shops that sell a variety of goods and products. Commonly combining thousands of stalls, Moroccan marketplaces  are expansive loud  and are home to some of the most intense merchants in the world, making it necessary for travelers to prepare before going to shop. Merchants tend to upsell and overprice all their products, doing their best to convince customers to give them their money. However, a practice called haggling allows customers to challenge merchants, allowing them to negotiate for lower prices. Haggling is a common practice in Morocco In learning the proper techniques, customers can navigate the tricky environment of souks and get a desired product for a reasonable price. Included below are five  tips for effectively haggling with merchants in Morocco.

1. Understand the Currency Change and Start Low

Moroccan dirhams. Emily Nadira. CC BY 2.0.

It is fundamental to the success of the customer if they first know the currency exchange between Morocco’s currency and that of their home country. At souks in Morocco, stall keepers typically accept dirhams, which is the central currency in Morocco. By knowing the currency exchange rate between your country’s currency and the dirham, the prices offered by merchants  will be relative to the currency you use daily rather than an unfamiliar one. , in hand allowing you to better negotiate with sellers. Occasionally, stall keepers and merchants will accept euros, but the importance of the exchange rate still remains for travelers shopping with a currency different from their home counytries’ .

Finally, it is essential to a customer's success that they start the bargaining off low. Original offers from merchants should never be accepted: merchants are trying to upsell you. By counter-offering a shopkeeper’s original price with one that is much lower, customers will open up the option to bargain with the seller, who will continue to haggle with the customer until both parties agree on a price .

2. Do not  Let Emotions Sway You

A customer haggling with merchant. Wanderer_by_trade. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

There are two ways in which emotions tend to affect a customer’s ability to haggle. One way is if the merchant seems to be too excited  or emotional about selling for higher prices. This is a tactic used by merchants to sway their buyers. The Matador Network says, “You’re dealing with actors of the highest order here,” and that “sellers may feign offense, rage, or sorrow.” Do not  be deterred by emotional merchants, stick to your counter-offers and hold your ground.

The second way emotions affect proper haggling is when the customer themselves becomes overwhelmed or upset with how a sale is going. Don’t allow yourself to get angry with merchants or look overly upset when a merchant isn’t willing to haggle over an item you really like. The more merchants see you are getting upset over negotiations that aren’t going your way, the more they know you would be willing to pay for an item. By keeping your emotions in check, you can better control how the haggling goes, making you more likely to purchase an item at your desired price.

3. Never Pay For The First Price Offered

Merchant selling goods. Jepoirrier. CC BY-SA 2.0. 

As a customer, you should never accept the initial  price offered on any item at a souk. Merchants know to overprice their first offer because travelers who are unaware of the haggling culture in Morocco accept the item's price as fixed. In countries like America and others where haggling at commercial marketplaces is uncommon, it may be uncomfortable to try and negotiate for price. However, as the Matador Network writes, “You’ll learn pretty quickly after arriving in Morocco that everything is negotiable.” Do not be afraid to haggle with your merchants..

4. Buy in Bulk

Spices from Marrakech. Ustung. CC BY 2.0.

Commonly, shopkeepers and merchants will be more likely to negotiate with you if you are buying more than one item. Luxe Adventure Traveler recommends that, “If you’re in a shop that has more than one item you want, group them together and bargain for a total price.” In buying multiple items from the same merchant, they will be more likely to negotiate with you, allowing you to get more for your money. Further, if you only want to purchase one item, try bundling with your travel companions or other friends and negotiate a total price for both, that way you may be able to purchase them for cheaper than if you were to buy them individually.

5. Know When to Walk Away

Shoppers walking through the marketplace. Jo.schz. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

Arguably, the most important tip that can be given to ensure a successful negotiation is to know when to walk away. Merchants in Morocco do not always enjoy haggling; you will not always be able to get the price you want for a specific item. Being able to recognize when a merchant is unwilling to sell for a lower price will help save you both time, energy and money. 

You do not have  to buy an item if you cannot negotiate the price you want to pay for it. Moreover, because souks and marketplaces in Morocco are so large, you can easily spend your time finding a similar item from a different stall for a much lower price. Know when enough is enough so you  don’t waste your money on unsuccessful negotiations.

Ava Mamary

Ava is an undergraduate student at the University of Illinois, double majoring in English and Communications. At school, she Web Writes about music for a student-run radio station. She is also an avid backpacker, which is where her passion for travel and the outdoors comes from. She is very passionate about social justice issues, specifically those involving women’s rights, and is excited to write content about social action across the globe.

South Africa’s Town of Penguins

The small port town Simon’s Town is full of amazing marine life, most notably the African Penguin colony that is  just outside the town center.

Jackass Penguins Simon’s Town SA. Donnie Ray. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Located on the southwestern coast of South Africa, Simon’s Town is a small village surrounded by both the ocean  and the mountains. Being so close to Cape Town, Simon’s Town is a beautiful, small port city. 

Simon’s Town is on a part of the Cape Peninsula known as False Bay. This area is a Hope Spot, an important and protected area for the ocean’s health. It is a valuable area for wildlife, with various species of birds and marine life coming to live off the area. Large marine creatures such as dolphins, whales, seals and sharks can be found near the town, some close enough to see while kayaking and others closer to Seal Island, 8 nautical miles away from the harbor.

However, much smaller than these other sea creatures is Simon’s Town’s famous attarction –the penguin colony. Penguins are found on every continent in the Southern Hemisphere, all the way from the Galápagos Islands at the equator to Antarctica. Here in this small town in South Africa, one colony of African penguins known as the Boulders Colony regularly comes ashore. Because of the colony, the town is also named Penguin Town. Breeding season for these birds is between February to August, so it is more common to see penguins during those months, but the birds will also come to land while they are molting. People can watch them from afar, and even swim alongside them, as long as they don’t get too close or chase them because the penguins will bite.

Simon’s Town (9). Joe Pyrek. CC BY-SA 2.0

African penguins–also known as black-footed penguins, Cape penguins, and jackass penguins (the last one because of their unique braying-like sounds)–are an endangered species of penguins, with only around 140,000 penguins in the world. They are small birds, only growing between 24-27 inches and weighing around 8-9 pounds. In addition to the black backs and white fronts, they have a black, parabolic band across their chests, though chicks and juvenile members are brown and gray. The population of this species started declining in the 1980s due to commercial fishing and oil pollution. Though penguins do eat more than just fish, it is the largest part of their diet and commercial fishing has been taking all the species that the penguins eat. Luckily, commercial fishing has been banned in False Bay, so African penguins’ food supply belongs to them and the other sea creatures again. The oil pollution is another serious issue for the birds because the oil will destroy their waterproof feathers, making it hard for them to swim.

There are 27 breeding sites for African penguins, and each of them is a protected habitat, including Simon’s Town, though the town did have to erect fences and boardwalks to prevent the penguins from wandering too far inland and into people’s gardens and backyards. The entire area is a sanctuary for penguins, and keeping them from invading residents’ properties can help people respect the animals, as well as helping the number of penguins to increase.

Katherine Lim

Katherine Lim is an undergraduate student at Vassar College studying English literature and Italian. She loves both reading and writing, and she hopes to pursue both in the future. With a passion for travel and nature, she wants to experience more of the world and everything it has to offer.

The Islands of Hong Kong: Hidden Oases Next to a Bustling City

Hong Kong is known as an urban center, but just a short ferry ride away from downtown are traditional fishing villages and untamed beaches waiting to be explored.

Tai O village, sometimes called the Venice of the Orient. Christian Junker | Photography. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

Hong Kong is a city of contrasts. It is where crowded slums stand next to glimmering skyscrapers, where its British legacy endures proudly with its Eastern roots, where poverty lives alongside some of the greatest riches in the world. It is also one of the most densely populated cities, with a population density of 17,311 people per square mile, packed inside a small urban center surrounded by mountains and outlying islands. 

But right outside the hustle of businesspeople lies a different side of Hong Kong. In some of the outer islands, just 10 away from Central, people live simple lives, sustaining themselves by fishing. Other islands are completely free of development and offer secluded beaches. These islands are part of the New Territories, which is included in the land that make up Hong Kong but have been largely free of development until recently. Nevertheless, it is possible to seek solitude just a short ferry ride away from the heart of Hong Kong, whether it is for a unique cultural experience or for a thrilling outdoor adventure.

Lantau Island

The Big Buddha statue, located in the interior of Lantau Island. Harald Felgner. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0. 

While Lantau Island, the largest in the special administrative region, is the location of the city’s airport and has some development on its northern side, the interior and southern side of the island holds quaint villages and massive religious monuments. In the interior of the island, one can find the Po Lin Monastery, a Buddhist monastery established in 1906, and the Big Buddha statue, a massive bronze sculpture of the Buddha completed in 1993. Taking inspiration from ancient Buddhist art forms, these sites offer a great opportunity to learn about the religion’s tradition. These sites are accessible via the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, which takes riders up the mountains from a commercial center near the airport. 

On the western coast of Lantau Island lies the village of Tai O, a fishing village partially built on stilts over the water. The villagers there hold on to their traditional way of life, resisting the integration of their lives into modern Hong Kong society. Visitors to the village can experience an authentic fishing village unaffected by the hustle of modern society. Besides trying out the local cuisine, visitors can also take a boat tour to try to spot the endangered Chinese white dolphin.

Cheung Chau Island

Tung Wan beach. Lewi Hirvela. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0. 

A 45-minute ferry ride from Central, Cheung Chau Island offers an adventure for all types of travelers. The island has a long history, being inhabited since prehistoric times. Ancient rock carvings left on the island by its earliest inhabitants have been declared as a monument of Hong Kong. In the 18th century, the island was the site of a pirate hideout. Today, the Cheung Po Tsai cave, where some booty of the pirate of the same name has been hidden, is open to the public to explore.

For those who prefer chilling on the beach, there are two public beaches on the island. Tung Wan beach, located at the heart of the island by the main village, offers soft sand, showers and changing rooms, concession stands, and all the amenities of conventional beach. The other beach, Kwun Yam, is a bit more out-of-the-way, with a smaller swimming area and coarser sand. However, it is the windsurfer’s paradise and was the training ground for Olympic windsurfing champion Lee Lai-Shan, who earned Hong Kong’s first gold medal in the 1996 Atlanta games. 

Lamma Island 

The floating fish farm rafts of Lamma Island. Trey Ratcliffe. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

More laid back than Lantau and Cheung Chau, Lamma Island offers an idyllic landscape. There is an extensive network of paths that takes visitors to a variety of sites around the island, from Hung Shing Yeh beach to the Tin Hau temple. That temple is a prime example of the East-meets-West theme seen throughout Hong Kong; the otherwise Eastern-style temple is guarded by two statues of Western-style lions. 

At the Sok Kwu Wan village, visitors can learn about the island’s fishing tradition. The Lamma Fisherfolks’ Village showcases the local fishing culture and history in Hong Kong for visitors. Floating fish farm rafts are spread out across the bay. A trip to Lamma cannot be completed without eating at one of the local restaurants, which serve freshly caught seafood from the island’s waters.

Po Toi and Tung Ping Chau Islands

The rocky coastline of Po Toi Island. Eddie Yip. CC BY-SA 2.0.

These two islands are for the more adventurous types of travelers. They are free from development. Po Toi, the southernmost of Hong Kong’s islands, is completely off the electrical grid, with its few buildings getting electricity from a small generator. This rocky island has many hiking trails, including one to Nam Kok Tsui, the southernmost point in Hong Kong. For the more brave, Mo’s Old House, an abandoned mansion built in the 1930s, is said to be haunted. 

Similarly, Tung Ping Chau island, in the remote far-northeast corner of the special administrative region, is also undeveloped. Unlike the rest of Hong Kong, it is composed of shale, resulting in an interesting geologic pattern. While the east side of the island has a sandy beach used for diving, the main focus of the island is its unique rock formations. The special geologic formations have made it a place of scientific interest. Today, it is a part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks network.

Bryan Fok

Bryan is currently a History and Global Affairs major at the University of Notre Dame. He aims to apply the notion of Integral Human Development as a framework for analyzing global issues. He enjoys hiking and visiting national parks.

Kyrgyzstan: From the Silk Road to the Celestial Mountains

A Central Asian country not known for its tourism, Kyrgyzstan boasts three Unesco World Heritage Sites. Each differs greatly in terms of its cultural significance, all providing different experiences for a traveler. 

Wildlife in Kyrgyzstan. Charles Fred. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0. 

Kyrgyzstan is known for its beautiful scenery; for example, there are two stunning canyons in Kyrgyzstan: the Fairy Tale Canyon and the Konorchek Canyons. The Kyrgyz people lived a nomadic lifestyle well into the 20th century, and aspects of this rich culture are still recognizable in architecture today. For example, a traveler to Kyrgyzstan can see a Bozui house—a type of architecture distinct to the Kyrgyz—and learn how it is built. In terms of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the three sites are deeply historically and culturally significant, as well as breathtaking.

1. The Chang'an-Tianshan Corridor of the Silk Road

Section of the Great Wall of China in Kyrgyzstan. Matt Barber. CC BY 2.0. 

The Chang’an-Tianshan Corridor is a section of the Silk Road, the most used collection of trade routes during ancient times, which primarily connected China with countries in Europe, the Middle East and East Africa. The Chang'an-Tianshan Corridor was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in June of 2014, due to the historical significance of the Silk Road, which had been used until as late as the 16th century. The Chang’an-Tianshan Corridor in Kyrgyzstan is an especially interesting and important sector of the Silk Road due to its beauty, rocky terrain and historical significance. The Chang’an-Tianshan Corridor was used from the 4th through 16th century to transport mostly luxury goods, with its use beginning to facilitate trade between the Chinese and Roman empires. It was also very difficult to navigate due to its massive peaks and valleys—the climate of which ranges from snowy to arid to humid. In addition to natural sites, the corridor contains many cultural and historical destinations. Parts of the Chang’an-Tianshan Corridor run along the Great Wall of China. Additionally, there are several Buddhist temples, ancient palaces and tombs along the corridor. 

2. The Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain

View of Sulaiman Too-Sacred Mountain from Osh. Christian Gawron. CC BY-SA 2.0.

Also located on the Silk Road, the Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain (located next to the city of Osh) was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009. The Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain has been regarded for hundreds of years as a sacred destination, primarily in Islam, but also in religions and belief-systems that contain only some aspects of the Islamic faith. The mountain contains two reconstructed mosques from the 16th century, caves with ancient petroglyphs and many other sites for worship—17 of which are still in use today. One of the main non-Islamic groups which has historically worshiped at the Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain is the cult of the horse, which is reflected in much of the cave art. 

3. The Tien-Shan Mountains

The Tien-Shan Mountains. Bruno Rijsman. CC BY-SA 2.0.

“Tien-Shan” in Chinese means “celestial.” The mountains may have gotten their name from their extremely high peaks; the highest points of the Tien-Shan mountains are also the highest points in all of Kyrgyzstan. The peaks in Kyrgyzstan were officially declared a World Heritage Site in 2016, although the parts of the mountains in China had been named a World Heritage Site in 2013. The Tien-Shan Mountains are mostly known for their diverse wildlife and for being home to several ethnic groups such as the Uyghur people and various Buddhist sects. While the oppression of the Uyghur people is not nearly as severe in Kyrgyzstan as it is in China, in recent years, there have been reports of violence from the Kyrgyz majority towards the Uyghur, as well as governmental interference in Uyghur political organizing. Despite Kyrgyzstan’s treatment of the Uyghur people, the Tien-Shan Mountains remain the home of many Uyghur people in the country. The mountains are covered in glaciers, many of which are threatened by climate change. This could change the entire geological landscape of the Tien-Shan mountains. Wildlife found on Tien-Shan include snow leopards and the Himalayan snowcock. Out of the three World Heritage Sites in Kyrgyzstan, the Tien-Shan Mountains is the most focused on the nature of Kyrgyzstan as opposed to the history featured in the other two sites.

Calliana Leff

Calliana is currently an undergraduate student at Boston University majoring in English and minoring in psychology. She is passionate about sustainability and traveling in an ethical and respectful way. She hopes to continue her writing career and see more of the world after she graduates. 

12 Local Cuisines You Can Find Around the World

Tasting local foods is one of the most interesting things about travel.  Learn about some hallmark culinary traditions of these diverse regions. 

Meat and veggies simmering in a pan. LoKan Sardari. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

My favorite part of traveling is exploring and tasting local food dishes with culturally significant roots within the region I’m visiting. When I traveled to London, I explored the local pubs and decided fried fish wasn’t that bad. The local aspect of dishes excites me, and I would much rather dine in a family-owned restaurant than a tourist trap. 

This serves as a bite-sized serving of the infinite variety of food on this massive planet—not a definitive recounting of the delicious and culturally significant dishes on Earth, but rather these regions serve as starting points that lead to culinary exploration. 

1. Kanto Region - Japan

Fukagawa meshi and other side dishes. Nekotank. CC BY-ND 2.0.

Japan is divided into eight regions, each of which has its own culturally significant dishes. The Kanto region is home to the capital city of Tokyo, and the flavors are stronger than the other regions’ food. Fukagawa meshi is a dish that originated in the Edo period (approximately 1603-1867) and consists of clams and leeks cooked in a miso stew. The dish was a product of abundant fishing in the area and quickly became adopted by locals. The Kanto region became a hub for industry during the Edo period, and the cuisine naturally started evolving to incorporate other region’s influences. 

2. New South Wales - Australia 

Kangaroo Meatballs with quandom jam. by denisbin. CC BY-ND 2.0.

Prior to the 18th century, the Indigenous population of Australia subsisted on hunting local wildlife, including kangaroos and wallabies. Once Australia became a continent-sized prison for the British Empire, the cuisine quickly modified to have influences of the colonizer diet. Today, Sydney cuisine reflects the multi-cultural population that lives there. Take-away foods and fast food are staples of Australian culture, and Sydney specifically is a melting pot of local and international foods. Fish and thick cut fries are common. The cuisine of Australia is heavily influenced by Western diets but still utilizes ingredients that Aussies connect with, including eating their national animal, the kangaroo—a dish low in fat, delicious, and popular in local restaurants. 

3. Phobjikha Valley - Bhutan

Bhutan dish with potatoes and vegetables. By rapidtravelchai. CC BY 2.0.

This region is home to many rich cultural events, such as the Black-Necked Crane Festival, which honors one of the region’s most culturally significant animals. This festival is held annually on Nov. 12, where cranes can be seen flying at high altitudes, accompanied by traditional dancers dressed in black-necked crane attire. The local cash crop is potatoes, which are the main ingredient in kewa datshi, a traditional dish prepared by thinly slicing potatoes and sauteeing with cheese, butter and chiles. The dish is relatively new to the region’s culture; in fact, potato consumption in Bhutan was near non-existent until the 1970s. Until then, it was mainly used as an export crop. Due to the region’s altitude and climate, insects do not interfere with the local’s potato crops, which eliminates the need for harmful pesticides.

4. Metsovo - Greece

Skewered sausages. PACO POMARES. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

Situated to the north of Epirus, Greece, this gorgeous small town is home to some of Greece’s most delicious industries: wine and cheese. The history of this town is fascinating, with it being the center of production for sheep wool traded as far as Northern Africa during the 17th and 18th centuries. The region is most popular during the winter season for its spectacular mountains and beautiful streams. Venturing off the beaten path, one can find themselves entranced with gorgeous forests, filled with statues, 19th-century architecture and natural springs supplying fountains. The local cuisine has an emphasis on dishes with rich flavors like sausages and ruffage, as well as a nice glass of wine to pair with it. Extra virgin olive oil is a heavily used condiment that could be added to multitudes of things, including toasted bread and other dishes.  

5. Chengdu - China

An assortment of Chengdu Food.  sinosplice. CC BY-NC 2.0.

Chengdu, China is a so-called “Party City,” according to the Los Angeles Times. While it is true that Chengdu has more teahouses and bars than Shanghai, it’s also home to many local dishes, specializing in chiles and peppercorns. One dish, dan dan mein (which Chengdu is credited for making), utilizes both in order to achieve a very spicy broth. Chengdu’s local tea culture is also very important, since the city was once a starting point for the Silk Road, offering many opportunities to create and enhance cultural staples. Although not culinary-specific, the city is a hotspot for LGBTQ+ travelers and natives, combining influences from the local party scene and the Queer community. 

6. Soca Valley - Slovenia

Panettone with chocolate chips. Nicola since 1972. CC BY 2.0.

Slovenia is right in the center of four surrounding cultural influences; the Balkans, Alpines, Mediterranean and Pannonian flavors are all present in Slovenia’s dishes, and each is broken down into distinct ‘genres’ of food. The Alpine mountains are home to the cows and sheep that graze and produce milk, used for cultural dishes like žganci (literally translated as mash). The expansive meadows let honey bees run rampant to produce fresh honey. To the east of Slovenia, there is a vast amount of wheat fields, used to prepare a litany of different dishes and thermal springs that allow for fresh drinking water. The most popular fish is sea bass, and according to popular sentiment in the region, “a fish must swim three times, in water, oil and wine.” By utilizing hard harvested salt, Slovenia’s population takes its local cuisine very seriously. 

7. Cape Town - South Africa

South Africa’s cuisine can be summed up with the term “melting pot,” since this region contains a mixture of Asian, European and Indigenous cultures within their food. Braai, an almost universally utilized meat preparation method in Southern Africa, is prepared by digging a firepit, providing meat and setting it ablaze. The practice is adjacent to America’s cultural touchstone of “barbecue,” although a key difference is that braai fires stay lit throughout the celebration as participants enjoy everyone’s company. Indigenous populations prioritized beef as a high-value food, and today, many South Africans still utilize foods from their Indigenous past. Colonialism severely altered the landscape of South African cuisine by bringing in an enslaved workforce from across Asia, which in turn brought their own cultural roots. The introduction of spices like nutmeg and allspice and the influence of European culture altered the cuisine further.  Fermented beer is also popular, with a common practice being offering someone homemade beer as they enter your house. 

8. Sicily - Italy

Italian cassatelle drizzled with chocolate. JohnDiP. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

Across the Mediterranean is the island of Sicily, a region known for its famous seafood dishes, sweets and, of course, pasta. The island restaurants have the opportunity to catch fish from the surrounding Mediterranean, specializing in tuna and freshly caught sardines. Pasta con le sarde is one of Sicily’s most popular dishes, utilizing fresh fennel seed that grows abundantly in Italy and the sardines from the surrounding sea. The dish also reflects the region’s multicultural influences, such as including raisins and pine nuts adapted from North American travelers. Sicily’s sweet side is also on full display, with cannoli being a centerpiece in Sicilian culture. Made with sweet ricotta filling, the crust of the cannolis is made from a fried pastry. 

9. Andes - South America

The Andes Mountains are home to communities of Indigenous peoples who have worked to preserve traditional flavors and techniques. The foodstuffs of the Indigenous peoples were incredibly versatile. Corn and potatoes are still some of the most important aspects of Andes cuisine, accompanied by traditionally used meats such as llama and guinea pig. Another word for a guinea pig is “cuy,” which has been a staple in Peruvian culture since the Incas and is used on important occasions.

10. Prague - Czech Republic

The capital of the Czech Republic harbors many cultural influences within its dishes. Italian food has touched the landscape of cuisine in Prague, but there are still many delicious dishes with deep Czech roots. Czech cuisine doesn’t have lots of vegetables in its arsenal of ingredients, and the foods of Prague are “delicious, comforting, very filling and addictive.” Steak tartare, a dish that tops “Taste of Prague’s” list of snacks that pair well with beer, is raw minced beef served with an egg or condiments. Sausages are a very common food in Prague, as well as the greater Czech region, overflowing into Germany. 

11. Central Ghana

Western Africa’s recipes are still being prepared in deeply culturally important ways. Dishes are typically very starch heavy, accompanied by heavily seasoned meats, like beef, fish and the most dominant form of red meat in this region, goat. Traditionally, West Africans didn’t eat much meat and instead opted for dishes with natural oils, but now locals mix various meats together in different aspects of dishes. Suya is also a very popular street food, taking meat and mixing it with spices, resembling a kebab flavor on a stick. Prior to Ghana’s independence in 1954, residents boycotted colonial goods, including tinned meat and biscuits, in an effort to lower the cost of living. This action, along with a demonstration at the governor’s estate, set the stage for Ghana to be the first Sub-Saharan independent country. Ghana is not concerned about dictating a national food, rather it embraces the diversity of the many cultural influences within the country. 

“Ghanaians expect to encounter diverse ethnic foods when traveling through different ecological zones within their country,” said researcher Brandi Miller in her paper, “Food and Nationalism in Independent Ghana.” “They welcome this difference and consider it a source of national strength and an indication of their unique national character, which embraces diversity.”

12. Tropics - South America

Fruit in a market. Nico Kaiser. CC BY 2.0.

On the beaches of South America, some so-called ‘exotic’ fruits are common staples of local culture. Pineapples, mangos, papayas and dozens others can be found in the tropical forests within the region. The climate allows for a dizzying variety of local agriculture to be used in recipes, such as tostones, which are popular Latin American twice-fried sliced plantains. The Amazon Rainforest is also utilized to enhance local flavors, utilizing meats from turtles and capybaras to use for local cuisine. Nearer to the coast, seafood dishes like ceviche are common to see enjoyed on a sunny day on the beach. Other than fish and fruits, there is a wide variety of vegetables that are grown in the tropics that influence local cuisine, including corn, beans and sweet potatoes.

Clayton Young

Clayton is an aspiring photojournalist with a Bachelor's in Liberal Studies with a minor in History from Indiana University - Bloomington. In his free time, he enjoys hikes, movies, and catching up on the news. He has written extensively on many topics including Japanese incarceration in America during World War II, the history of violence, and anarchist theory.

Geocaching: The World’s Largest Game of Hide and Seek

Geocaching is the world’s greatest treasure hunt. With both treasure-hiders and adventurous seekers, the hobby of geocaching takes participants on immersive adventures all around the world. 

Geocache with accompanying logbook. Cachemania. BY CC-SA 2.0.

Geocaching is an outdoor hobby that allows participants of all ages to use geographic positioning system (GPS) technology to locate small boxes of treasure while exploring new outdoor areas. Composed of both hiders—those who create caches and stash them somewhere—and seekers—those who use GPS technology to locate the caches—geocaching becomes the world's biggest game of hide and seek, allowing for outdoor adventure along the way.

National Geographic states the activity began in 2000, when a small group of people from Oregon who were “interested in technology and geography” turned the idea of hiding caches into a game. Now, there are a plethora of online databases full of GPS coordinates made available to desiring participants, either for free or through registration, which can be placed into a geocaching app or hand-held GPS and guide seekers to stashes. Expanding past Oregon and now being hosted in 191 different countries, geocaching is now a world-wide activity being played by over 3 million people.

Hand-held GPS. Johan Larsson. CC BY 2.0. 

Inside caches, a bunch of different things can be found. Small trinkets, figurines and toys are very commonly stashed in geocaches. Additionally, it is good geocaching practice if seekers who find treasures add a bit of their own, taking one part of the cache and replacing it with their own treasure. This keeps the game alive and allows multiple seekers to find the same cache, while simultaneously having a unique experience from everyone else because they will find a new treasure every time. There are extreme circumstances where seekers will find coins, tokens and even dollar bills, but typically, treasures are not very valuable. This also helps prevent people from finding geocaches for the sake of monetary gain, which would ruin the communal, adventurous nature of the game.

Treasure from a cache. Dave. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

Those who choose to look for caches need the same basic equipment. Either a smartphone (with the downloaded Geocaching app) or a handheld GPS which can be bought on the internet is necessary to participate in geocaching. After that, all a seeker needs is coordinates from a geocache database and a free afternoon. Most seekers will find themselves hiking through woods, up hills and mountains, and immersing themselves in their local area on the way to their cache’s location. Many times, hiders will specifically place caches in areas that take seekers by camping grounds where they can rest after a day of hunting, a cool outlook where they can enjoy their treasures or spots not commonly explored in the woods or other local terrains.

View from a set of geocache coordinates. Bob n Renee. CC BY 2.0.

For those wanting to be a hider, the game gets a bit more complicated. Because the hiders dictate the coordinates, they also subsequently dictate the adventure that the seeker will go on. However, there are rules to the ways geocaches can be hidden and where. Not only do they have to obey trespassing and property laws, but they have to respect their surrounding environment. They cannot disturb plant or animal life, they must be accessible to seekers, and the box must be weatherproof for when it rains. 

Further, boxes cannot have perishable items inside, as they may pose a harm to those who find them. Finally, each cache typically has a logbook, which allows seekers to mark their find by writing their name. This is recommended because seekers and hiders alike can see how many other people have experienced the same treasure hunt.

Geocaching, although for everyone of all ages, is popular amongst younger people. Children love to geocache, and commonly groups of boy scouts and girl scouts will make camping trips and adventures out of it, especially when caches are located near campsites and in the woods. However, because geocaching has become a global game, anyone with the app and some spare time can experience the adventure. Travelers in new areas find geocaching can be a really great way to see a new local area. Porthole Cruise and Travel says geocaching is great for “road trips and day trips,” because it allows for travelers to experience more of their new area.

Geocaching is a great pastime for all ages and for travelers trying to fully experience new areas, and, what makes it even better is the fact that it is a mostly free hobby.is cheap, fun for everyone who wishes to participate and a great way to find new adventures with friends and family in your own town or ones you visit in the future.

Ava Mamary

Ava is an undergraduate student at the University of Illinois, double majoring in English and Communications. At school, she Web Writes about music for a student-run radio station. She is also an avid backpacker, which is where her passion for travel and the outdoors comes from. She is very passionate about social justice issues, specifically those involving women’s rights, and is excited to write content about social action across the globe.

Discover Cambodia’s Beauty Despite Dark Political Past

Though still recovering from Pol Pot’s regime, Cambodia contains numerous sites and monuments worth traveling for.

Angkor Wat Reflection. Radek Kucharski.  CC BY2.0.

Cambodia is known for its massive and brilliantly crafted religious temples, vast untouched forests and vibrant city life. What some may not know is Cambodians have and are still recovering socially, economically and politically from one of recent history's most horrific events: the reign of the Khmer Rouge. 

Under the rule of dictator  Pol Pot, the Khmer Rouge was a Marxist regime created in 1975. Whether from execution, starvation, exhaustion and disease, more than 2 million civilians died during the genocide. Despite the defeat of the Khmer Rouge on January 7, 1979 by the Vietnamese military, Cambodians struggled to regain their political and economic prosperity. General poverty rates have lingered around 35% which is a great improvement from the 50% at the initial end of the events. Those who experienced the genocide are now be in their 50s, and thus Cambodians are still living with the traumatic experiences they went through.

With that said, the Southeast Asian country has shown great perseverance and progress towards a bright future. Now, Cambodian citizens celebrate their traditional cultures and welcome outsiders to experience the atmosphere and history of their country. Here are a few of the most popular spots.

1. Angkor Wat

Said to be the largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat is a vast Buddhist temple that touches over 400 acres of land and comprises over 1,000 buildings. Cambodia is home to this cultural wonder of the world and is a destination that provides both visual beauty and an introduction to Cambodia’s rich history and culture. 

Angkor Wat has five lotus-like towers rising 65 meters up, being the first part of the temple visitors tend to notice. The awe-inspiring scenery continues with carvings throughout the inside of the temple. Celestial dancers, known as apsaras in Khmer (Cambodia’s national language), helped reintroduce Apsara dance in Cambodia. Carvings of war, spiritual journeys and everyday life explain Cambodia’s hardships and relationship with culture and religion. Ta Prohm, also known as the Tomb Raider Temple due to its appearance in the 2001 film, and Angkor Thom are other beautifully architected sights nearAngkor Wat.  

2. Banteay Srei 

Banteay in Angkor. Juan Antonio Segal. CC BY 2.0.

Known as the Temple of the Women, Banteay Srei is sacred in Angkor. Though it is much smaller in size than Angkor Wat, it contains some of Cambodia's most delicate carvings. Images of women holding lotus flowers and memorable stories of the Hindu religion are depicted here. Banteay Srei is still a place for women to visit and observe to feel inspired and appreciated, as well as a place where anyone can experience its beauty and history.

3.  Bayon

Bayon Temple Ruins in Cambodia. Uwe Schwarzbach.  CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

This Buddhist Temple is home to 216 smiling, peaceful faces carved into towers. Numerous other carvings can be seen representing the experiences of the Khmer people. Bayon temple allows visitors to understand the goals and journey of the Khmer Empire and is a great temple to visit if you are interested in Buddhism and appreciating Cambodia’s past.  

4. Phnom Penh

Bustling Phnom Penh. Baron Reznik. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia andhome to vibrantly colored buildings, tight streets with motorbikes, friendly locals and more architectural beauty. A main mark of the Cambodian experience, Phnom Penh is affordable and easy-going—a great way to submerge yourself in the country's culture. here are some upscale restaurants and locations, but overall, Phnom Penh remains its gritty, lively and romantically chaotic self. 

5. Krong Siem Reap

Angkor Wat in Krong Siem Reap. Kim Seng. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

Krong Siem Reap is another other major city destination in Cambodia. Krong Siem Reap is a staple of Cambodia’s religious history, being home to Angkor Wat, the ruins of Banteay Srei and Ta Prohm. Locals treat travelers as if they have been life-long friends, and travelers will get the chance to explore much of Cambodia’s Buddhist history as long as remaining respectful. 

Krong Siem Reap is also known for its exquisite food scene. Cafes offer coffee, teas and delicious local food dishes with some even offering vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. Restaurants to grab an authentic and budgeted meal are around every corner. 

6. Kirirom National Park

Kirirom National Park Rest Area. Arie. CC BY2.0. 

Located mostly in Phnom Sruoch District, Kirirom National Park is covered with deep forestry and high elevation. Kirirom, meaning “Mountain of Joy,” is loved for its high elevation pine forests and many glistening waterfalls. Along with vast, isolated hiking trails, the endangered sun bears, pileated gibbons and tigers can be found living in the forests. 

7. Koh Tonsay

Koh Tonsay. James Antrobus. CC BY2.0. 

Located on the country's south coast in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tonsay can be translated as “Rabbit Island”  and received its name because it houses the furry little creatures. It is a relatively quiet coast with a more rustic beach style. While tourists tend to visit other parts of the Cambodian coast more influenced by Chinese businesses, Koh Tonsay remains a sliver of true Cambodian land. It is not as flashy as some other beaches on the coast of Cambodia, but Koh Tonsay offers a unique and isolated beach experience. 

8. Bousra Waterfall 

Bousra Waterfall. Lucien Tan. CC BY-ND 2.0.

Located just outside of Sen Monorom, the Bousra (also spelled Bou Sra and Busra) waterfall is a three-level natural wonder offering viewing platforms at different heights and access to its base, where visitors can get misted and explore the powerful waters.

Haleigh Kierman

Haleigh is a student at The University of Massachusetts, Amherst. A double Journalism and Communications major with a minor in Anthropology, she is initially from Guam, but lived in a small, rural town outside of Boston most of her life. Travel and social action journalism are her two passions and she is appreciative to live in a time where writers voices are more important than ever.

Sandboarding: The Art of Surfing Sand Around the World

Requiring nothing but a board and steady nerves, sandboarding has become a popular new solo-extreme sport. Small and large competitions occur all over the world as the sport gains popularity.

A man sandboarding in Egypt. Surfing The Nations. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

Sandboarding has gained popularity as an extreme solo sport, with competitions held at dunes around the world.  The sport is perfect for adventurous athletes and travelers interested in seeing new places and seeking adrenaline-fueled fun, as it can be done anywhere with expansive sand dunes and the right equipment.

The sport itself is logistically simple: riders climb to the top of a sand dune and get on their board. Then, by jumping closer to the downward slope of the dune, pivoting to have their front foot ahead of them and leaning forward, the board will start to move and pick up speed as it makes its way down the slope—similar to snowboarding. Professionals will throw tricks like jumps and spins which have flooded YouTube over the years, and sandboarding courses have even installed bars and pipes for riders to test out, just like a skateboarder or snowboarder would find at parks or slopes.

Surfer Today describes sandboarding as “a blend between surfing, skateboarding and snowboarding.” Typically, sand boards are almost identical to snowboards, yet they tend to be lighter and either include no foot holdings or two straps for each of the rider’s feet with a latch that locks you to the board. No uniform is required unless you are competing professionally, and even then, experts and riders wear casual uniforms during competitions.

Pro-sandboarder Josh Tenge at Sand Master Park. OCVA. CC BY-ND 2.0.

Sandboarding is also an accessible sport that can be done on a range of levels from beginner to expert. At the beginner and intermediate levels, the extreme sport becomes more of a daring passtime. Perfect for summer conditions due to the dryness of the sand, recreational sandboarding is done all around the United States and in other parts of the globe. In the United States, perfect sandboarding conditions can be found in places like Utah’s Coral Pink Sand Dunes Park, Sand Master Park in Oregon, Monahans Sandhills State Park in Texas and the Kelso Dunes in California. There are more great national parks and dunes spread across the United States that perfectly cater to sandboarding conditions, and finding a location nearest to you can be easily done with a simple search on the internet; lists on the best locations to sandboard are scattered across the web because of how popular the activity is.

Additionally, there are amazing places to sandboard across the globe that are perfect for a day trip to some of the world’s most famous dunes and deserts. South America is immensely popular for sandboarding—the World Cup is typically hosted here because of the massive dunes and numerous locations to be found in the continent. Some examples can be found in Peru, at both Cerro Blanco and Huacachina, while other South American spots ideal for the sport are located in Concon, Chile. Towards the Middle East and Africa, other famous deserts and dunes that are great for sandboarding include the Great Sand Sea in Egypt, the Namib Desert in South Africa and the Moroccan Sahara, known for its vast expanse of sandy hills.

The Great Sand Sea in Egypt. Virtualwayfarer. CC BY-NC 2.0. 

Most parks do not make visitors pay to use the sand dunes, but occasionally visitors will have to pay an entrance fee—especially if the dunes they wish to ride are located in a national park. If participants wish to take lessons, the prices of those are somewhere between $50 for an individual lesson and $160 for a group lesson with six people that lasts for a few hours at the Sand Master Park in Oregon and may fluctuate depending on where in the world you are trying to board. Rentals are also available at certain locations, like Sand Master Park, and boards costing around $10 to rent for 24 hours. Additional costs can be applied if users wish to rent helmets and other protective gear. 

Many people find that the sport just takes practice. The beauty of sandboarding is that it is less risky to try as a beginner because the conditions are better for falling off your board or slipping on your way down the dunes when compared to icy conditions of snowboarding or the hard concrete used for skateboarding.

It is also worth noting that some places require participants to provide their own board; not all locations will have a shop where those looking to sandboard can rent the equipment. Boards for sale online range from anywhere between $150-400, but it depends on brand and size. Cheaper boards can be found on sites like Amazon for anywhere between $40 to $80 if people are not looking to invest in the sport too heavily.

Some slopes even end with a splash in a pond or lake; riders will descend dunes to find a ramp at the bottom which launches them into refreshing, cool water. This is exemplified in Huacachina, Peru, where the dunes feed right into a pond at the center of the village. Huacachina is also listed commonly as one of the best places to sandboard in the world and was the host of the Sandboarding World Cup in 2019.

Dune that feeds to water at Huacachina. Flexbox. CC BY 2.0. 

More advanced riders who wish to compete at higher levels have a multitude of competitions to choose from around the globe. Alongside the Sandboarding World Cup, which changes locations frequently, other competitive events include Sand Spirit in Germany, the Pan-American Sandboarding Challenge in Brazil, the Sand Master Jam in Oregon and the Sand Sports Super Show in California. Participants compete for titles and merchandise, all fighting to become champions in this extreme sport.

Sandboarding is a great activity to get adrenaline pumping, explore new areas of the world, and to remain active during travel. . For those looking to ride the craziest, most intense dunes in the world, Peru, Egypt, Japan and a plethora of other locations provide not only a fulfilling trip but host the correct conditions for riding. Perfect for both adventure and travel, the sport encourages riders to seek the most daunting dunes in the world and conquer them.

Ava Mamary

Ava is an undergraduate student at the University of Illinois, double majoring in English and Communications. At school, she Web Writes about music for a student-run radio station. She is also an avid backpacker, which is where her passion for travel and the outdoors comes from. She is very passionate about social justice issues, specifically those involving women’s rights, and is excited to write content about social action across the globe.

Before the Sex Pistols, There Was Peruvian Punk Rock

Western punk groups have taken credit for starting the punk movement, but a small group in 1960s Peru would say otherwise. 

Peruvian punk band Los Saicos. TravelingMan. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Punk music has been used for decades as a means to express discontent about numerous topics, including politics and controversial events. But where does the genre come from? While it is easy to claim Western influences, like the Sex Pistols and The Clash to be the forefathers of the punk scene, the Peruvian rock band Los Saicos, formed in 1964, is a strong contender for the position of “Originators of Punk.”

In order to make comparisons between Los Saicos and Western punk bands, a definition of punk music is in order. Punk music consists of fast beats and often aggressive lyrics that seek to critique certain ideas or systems of power. A recent academic article discusses how the lyrics to the Sex Pistol’s “Anarchy in the U.K.” were a critique of the U.K.’s foreign policy in Ireland, a period known as The Troubles. The Los Saicos song “Demolición” lacks a specific reference to Peruvian politics at the time, but clearly expresses discontent with government infrastructure. 

The members of Los Saicos were likely influenced by the political turmoil within Peru during their upbringing. Guitarist and vocalist Erwin Flores and drummer Francisco Guevara had just graduated high school and were grappling with unprecedented political strife, drastically affecting how they prosper as adults. The group was established in 1964, with “Demolición” being one of the country’s biggest songs that year. Amidst massive inflation under President Fernando Terry’s land redistribution policy, economic hardship increased for Peruvians. The lyrics are representative of a future that was promised to them with Terry’s liberal redistribution policies, but one that ultimately drowned with the Peruvian sol’s value. ‘Demolición’ expresses hatred at the government for promising a future and delivering inflation. 

Los Saicos broke up in 1966, but its influence was picked up by garage rockers throughout Peru and abroad in the U.K. The punk genre’s grungy and generally angsty music did not necessarily originate from the members of Los Saicos, but they were critical in the genre’s explosion in popularity, especially in areas where there was a discontent with state functions. 

“Nobody invented the wheel, we were obviously building off of what others have done,” said Flores in an interview. 

The band’s desire to express themselves within a country in turmoil ranges across languages and generations, effectively changing how the music scene functioned as ‘angry’ music started becoming mainstream and profitable.  

Clayton Young

Clayton is an aspiring photojournalist with a Bachelor's in Liberal Studies with a minor in History from Indiana University - Bloomington. In his free time, he enjoys hikes, movies, and catching up on the news. He has written extensively on many topics including Japanese incarceration in America during World War II, the history of violence, and anarchist theory.

The Surprising Popularity of Rock Climbing in Slovenia

Slovenia, a Central European country, holds a lesser-known secret: its rock climbing. Not only does Slovenia have many beautiful natural climbing sites, but it also has world-renowned rock gyms and some of the most acclaimed rock climbers in the world. 

People climbing Mount Triglav in Slovenia. Derbeth. CC BY 2.0.

Formerly part of Yugoslavia, Slovenia can often be reduced down to its political turmoil. However, this Slavic country is incredibly mountainous and hilly, providing the perfect terrain for rock climbers of all skill levels. Slovenia has produced numerous renowned climbers and built a culture around the sport. 

The most well-known Slovenian rock climber would have to be Janja Garnbret, who became the first woman to win gold in sport climbing at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics—the first year that sport climbing was featured at the Olympic games at all. While many people may find rock climbing intriguing and even do it in their free time, it wasn’t well known as a competitive sport until it became an Olympic event. However, competitive rock climbing has a large community, and a major facet of that community is in Slovenia, Garnbret’s home country. For example, Garnbret also placed first in the International Federation of Sport Climbing World Cup in September of 2021, which happened to be hosted in Kranj, Slovenia.

Garnbret follows in the footsteps of years of successful Slovenian women climbers, such as Martina Cufar, who made it on the podium at sixteen different world cup events between 1997 and 2002. Slovenia’s climbing history—specifically when it comes to women—goes back to the early 20th century with Pavla Jesih and Dana Kuraltova, two Slovenian women who climbed the famous Mount Triglav in 1925. 

Slovenia’s rock climbing success isn’t by chance. An obvious source of the country’s enthusiasm for the sport is its spectacular mountains such as Mount Triglav. But the success of the Slovenian National Team today can also be attributed to how small the country is and thus how close knit the coaches and the team members are able to be. For example,  Slovenian National Team coach Luke Fonda owns Plus Climbing gym in Koper, Slovenia, a gym which the team often practices at. 

Climber in Koper, Slovenia. David Glanzer. CC BY 2.0.

In addition to Plus Climbing, rock gyms are plentiful in Slovenia, especially when compared to the country’s size. Some of the most famous gyms are First Ascent in Kranj and The Climbing Ranch in Vrbnje, which serious, competitive climbers from around the world strive to visit. In terms of Slovenia’s natural climbing sites, the country boasts stunning mountains such as Mount Triglav, Mount Viševnik and Mount Prisojnik. The mountains in Slovenia range from beginner to advanced level climbing, with Mount Triglav and Mount Viševnik being doable hikes for most travelers. Mount Prisojnik is known to have a range of trails and climbs—some good for beginners, and others that will be engaging for experienced climbers. Ultimately, Slovenia is a great option for an off-the-beaten-path visit in general, but is especially perfect for those interested in rock climbing, given its rich history and multitude of climbing sites.

Calliana Leff

Calliana is currently an undergraduate student at Boston University majoring in English and minoring in psychology. She is passionate about sustainability and traveling in an ethical and respectful way. She hopes to continue her writing career and see more of the world after she graduates. 

5 Captivating Silk Road Sites to Visit in Central Asia

Stretching from China and the Far East to Europe and the Middle East, the Silk Road was once the world’s most important trade route.

The Mir-i-Arab Madrassa in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, showcases the Islamic architecture so prevalent along the Silk Road. Marco Verch. CC BY 2.0

It opened in 130 B.C. and remained in use for the next 1,500 years, leading to the rise of countless cities along its path. Though their significance has faded, the grandeur of Central Asia’s Silk Road cities continues to amaze all who visit.

1. Samarkand

A view of the Registan and its three madrassas in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. K3nna. CC BY 2.0

Undoubtedly the highlight of Uzbekistan, Samarkand was once one of the world’s premier cities. After his visit in 1333, the explorer Ibn Battuta called Samarkand “one of the greatest and finest of cities, and most perfect of them in beauty.” The city’s elegance is still revealed in the Registan, a courtyard surrounded by three marvelously beautiful madrassas, or Islamic schools. The distinctive tile work that covers the area’s buildings remains of the best examples of Islamic architecture in the world. Samarkand is also home to the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once one of the largest in the Islamic world. Much of the mosque was destroyed by an earthquake in 1897, but glimpses of its original splendor still transport visitors back to its glory days in the 15th century.

2. Merv

The Great Kyz Kala, known as the “Maiden’s Castle,” is one of many crumbling fortresses in Merv. Gai Jorayev. CC BY-SA 4.0

Located in the far-off reaches of Turkmenistan, Merv’s broad religious and commercial influence once made it the third-largest city in the world. The Mongols ransacked Merv in 1221, and the city never recovered. Its extensive ruins remain, though, and amaze all who reach them. Fortresses, medieval walls, mausoleums and mosques have been uncovered, some dating back to 2500 B.C. Many of Merv’s ruins have not yet been preserved, so a visit here is a unique opportunity to see ancient history as it originally stood. One word of caution: gaining a tourist visa for Turkmenistan is notoriously difficult, so plan far ahead if arranging a trip.

3. Bukhara

The Kalyan Minaret stands above Bukhara’s Po-i-Kalyan complex in the center of town. Travelmag.com. CC BY 2.0

Holding much of Samarkand’s grandeur with far fewer crowds, Bukhara is one of Uzbekistan’s most compelling cities. Its prosperity as a Silk Road trading site led to the establishment of Bukhara as one of the intellectual and artistic hubs of Islamic civilization. The city’s prominent stature led to incredible sites such as the Po-i-Kalyan complex, Bukhara’s stunning town center. Po-i-Kalyan is home to an intricately designed mosque with 288 domes and 208 pillars, a still-in-use madrassa, and a minaret (Islamic tower) so impressive that Genghis Khan left it standing during his invasion of the city. Other must-visit spots include the Ark of Bukhara, an ancient fortress which offers stunning views of the city, and a bazaar where trading occurs much as it has for centuries.

4. Tash Rabat

Though it looks small from the outside, Tash Rabat is filled with a maze of rooms once used by Silk Road traders. Allan Grey. CC BY-SA 2.0

Situated almost 10,500 feet above sea level in Kyrgyzstan’s Tian Shan Mountains, Tash Rabat offered respite to weary Silk Road travelers along a challenging part of their journey. This still out-of-the way spot operated as a caravanserai, or roadside inn, throughout the 15th century. Though many caravanserais can be found along the Silk Road’s path, Tash Rabat stands out due to its stunning mountainous location and its labyrinthine layout. Archaeologists believe that Tash Rabat was originally a 10th-century Christian monastery, explaining its dark and imposing maze of rooms. Visitors often find the site to be mysterious and endlessly fascinating, and often combine it with horseback riding tours and yurt stays in the dramatic Kyrgyz countryside.

5. Khiva

Kalta Minor Minaret’s blue tiles strongly contrast with the sandstone buildings around it. Dan Lundberg. CC BY-SA 2.0

The final of Uzbekistan’s trio of Silk Road cities is Khiva, home to a narrow maze of historic treasures stretching back to the fifth century. One such spot is the Tash-Khauli Palace, an exquisitely designed structure with over 150 mesmerizing rooms and courtyards. Continued exploration leads travelers to Juma Mosque, held up by 200 uniquely designed wooden pillars. Khiva claims two minarets, the climbable Islam Khodja Minaret and the Kalta Minor Minaret, which is bathed in beautiful blue tiling. The best view in town, though, comes at the Kuhna Ark Watchtower, where the city’s sandstone walls brilliantly reflect light rays at sunset.

Stephen Kenney

Stephen is a Journalism and Political Science double major at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He enjoys sharing his passion for geography with others by writing compelling stories from across the globe. In his free time, Stephen enjoys reading, long-distance running and rooting for the Tar Heels.

Turning Menaces Into Meals: 5 Invasive Species You Can Eat

Invasive species threaten naturally occurring ecosystems. However, locals and travelers are now being encouraged to eat these organisms, a practice allowing for sustainable eating and providing opportunities for adventurous dining.

A King Lionfish. Niklas FliNdt. CC BY-SA 2.0.

By definition, invasive species are organisms that cause harm to environments they don’t originate from. When a new species is introduced to a naturally occurring ecosystem, they disrupt the balance of the environment and harm the pre-existing organisms in the area. Across the globe, invasive species wreak havoc on struggling ecosystems, but many people have found a possible solution to this environmental issue. In turning their most invasive organisms into food that locals and travelers can eat, countries around the world are creating opportunities for sustainable and adventurous eating, eliminating massive environmental threats along the way. 

Eating sustainably is the practice of consuming food and drink that are good for both the consumer and the environment. In eating invasive species, locals and travelers are playing a part in removing harmful organisms in the places they live or visit. To become a sustainable and adventurous traveler, try eating any of these five invasive species on your next trip.

1. Kelp - Alaska

Barnacle Foods pickled kelp. Josefine S. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Invasive species aren’t just animals, they’re plants too. And kelp is one of the most invasive plants in the world; the Global Invasive Species Database (GISD) lists kelp among the top 100 worst invasive species around the globe. It originated in Japan and China but has since traveled through the waters of the Pacific where it now creates major problems for Alaskan marine life. However, a company called Barnacle Foods has created a way to harvest and consume this terrorizing plant: by pickling it.

Stationed in Southeast Alaska, Barnacle Foods is dedicated to harvesting kelp from the water and pickling it.. Set on remaining in Alaska, travelers can only visit their location by boat or plane, but Barnacle Food has made their product available online as well. In turning this invasive species into a beloved snack and by providing multiple recipes on their website for the pickled kelp’s usage, this food has become a great way to eat sustainably for the benefit of Alaskan marine life. It has also become a media sensation, the company gaining over 24,000 followers on Instagram and having been featured by magazines like the Specialty Food Association.

2. Wild Boar - Spain

Wild boar shank. Pabo76. CC By-NC-ND 2.0.

Although wild boar are found commonly across Europe and the United States and have been flagged as invasive in both continents, they are a true pestilence in Spain. Spanish cities have declared war on these animals, which breed rapidly, disrupt traffic in cities and have become local hunter’s number one target. Additionally, wild boar love to dig up black truffles, and as a leader in black truffle trade, Spain is looking for any way to rid themselves of the species.

Wild boar is said to taste like a cross between beef and pork. In Spain, it is most popularly prepared by the shank or as a stew and typically slow cooked like pork to give the meat a tender, juicy flavor. A great meal for hungry travelers, wild boar is also a great way to eat sustainably on the road and help Spain fight against the pigs that have disrupted their trade and cities.

3. Lionfish - The Mediterranean 

Lionfish ceviche served with bread. Leo Roza. CC BY 2.0.

Lionfish have completely overtaken the natural ecosystems in the Mediterranean Sea, but the countries that surround the affected water have started preparing and serving the fish in a multitude of ways. Although poisonous when alive, the lionfish becomes edible when killed, and the Mediterranean region has integrated the species into its culture of fresh, vibrant cuisine. 

Becoming a staple in many countries around the Mediterranean Sea, lionfish can be prepared just like all other fish; you can fry it, bake it, pan sear it and even serve it raw. The most popular way travelers will find it served in the Mediterranean is as ceviche. Described as extremely buttery and tender, Lionfish are a menace in the ocean but a treat on the plate of any traveler.

This fish can be found at most restaurants near the Mediterranean Sea. ILionfish is served in the south of France, Italy, Greece, Tunisia, Libya and Spain. 

4. Brown Hare - Ireland

Jugged Hare. Kent Wang. CC BY-SA 2.0.

Introduced to Ireland in the mid-1800s, the brown hare, also known as the European hare, has threatened the Irish hare population for decades now. The overpopulation of the brown hare is stealing resources away from Irish hare and herbivores in the country, posing a threat to the ecological integrity of the land. Hunters are allowed to take down hares during the winter months, starting in September and ending in February, and the brown hare has become a major target.

Celtic myth considered it unlawful to eat hares, but modern times have called for different measures. The Irish Examiner says it's time for rabbit to become a part of more Irish menus due to the overpopulation and invasion of the species. Luckily, a dish that originated in France has become more widespread as the brown hare has infiltrated different parts of the globe. Civet of Hare, also known as jugged hare, has become a popular dish in Ireland and the UK—where the hare is also an invasive species in many parts. The dish is made by stewing the entire brown hare in a jug or container with a variety of vegetables and red wine, making the meat so tender it falls right off the bone. This is the perfect dish to warm you up during travel to Ireland, which is notorious for their abundant rainfall and moist climate.

5. Japanese Knotweed - Everywhere but Antarctica

Knotweed ready to be cooked. K_Hargrav. CC BY 2.0.

Last on the list but certainly not least, Japanese knotweed is an invasive plant that is quite literally everywhere on the map. It is said to be found in every part of the globe except Antarctica. Growing at unbelievable rates and heights, it makes it difficult for animals in surrounding areas to walk through its dense brush and feed on other plants. It also blocks sunlight for plants lower to the ground, subsequently killing them. 

However, knotweed is edible and an extremely versatile ingredient. The most popular way knotweed is eaten is when it is sauteed like spinach or other leafy greens. It can also be pickled, like kelp, or grilled and roasted in the same way asparagus would be. Bon Appitite published an article on how chefs from all over are using Japanese knotweed as an ingredient in new recipes and where travelers can try them.

Ava Mamary

Ava is an undergraduate student at the University of Illinois, double majoring in English and Communications. At school, she Web Writes about music for a student-run radio station. She is also an avid backpacker, which is where her passion for travel and the outdoors comes from. She is very passionate about social justice issues, specifically those involving women’s rights, and is excited to write content about social action across the globe. 

In the Czech Countryside, a City Eaten Alive by Its Own Beauty

Since the fall of communism, Český Krumlov has transformed from relic to hotspot—but has it lost its authentic appeal along the way?

The Czech capital of Prague is known the world over for its storybook beauty, manifesting most dramatically in the towering gothic facade of the St. Vitus Cathedral and the sprawling tableau of red rooftops visible from atop Petřín Hill. Yet just over 100 miles away is another sparkling jewel in the Czech Republic’s crown: Český Krumlov, a city of only 13,000 residents whose 13th-century castle and picturesque riverbanks have brought it not only recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site but also an increasing influx of tourists that now threatens its very identity. 

Former Czechoslovakia’s communist regime, which lasted from 1948 to 1989 before it was ushered out by the Velvet Revolution, left much of Český Krumlov in disrepair. Yet the city’s neglected state lent it a sense of mystery and charm. In the years since, Krumlov—much like the country’s capital, Prague—has been transformed into a tourist wonderland, with historic buildings being renovated and revitalized and ensuing increases in tourist income bolstering the city’s economy.

City streets. Hindol Bhattacharya. CC BY-SA 2.0

As the city has changed, so have the demographics of its visitors. In an interview with Radio Praha, Krumlov’s mayor, Dalibor Carda, explained that an initial boom of Austrian and German tourists after 1989 gave way to an influx of Americans, many of whom settled in the city indefinitely. Today, for locals—whether native-born or transplants—the off-season is a thing of the past, with tour groups flooding the city on a year-round basis. “[I]f you want to have a pristine Krumlov,” writes Jan Velinger in a piece for Radio Praha, “you have to get up very early to ever have its romantic streets, or overlooking castle, ramparts to yourself.” Fed up with the unrelenting crowds, locals have largely migrated to the outskirts of the city, resulting in an exodus of local businesses: Bakeries, hardware stores, and family-owned shops are now difficult to find, having been replaced with bars, restaurants, and hostels catering to short-term visitors.

One of Český Krumlov’s bars, popular among tourists. kellerabteil. CC BY-NC 2.0

In some respects, Český Krumlov has moved to mitigate the encroaching tendrils of tourism, notes reporter Chris Johnstone, pointing to a ban on advertising and the exclusion of cars and buses from the city center. Moreover, just this June, the city established a tariff on buses in an effort to regulate the influx—up to 20,000—arriving each year. The plan is the first of its kind in the Czech Republic, although Salzburg and other Austrian cities have imposed similar measures. Now, all buses rolling into Krumlov must book in advance, navigate to one of two designated stops, and pay the toll of CZK 625, approximately $28.

Tourism has inspired not only legislative changes, but also works of art—as in the case of “UNES-CO,” a 2018 project by renowned conceptual artist Kateřina Šedá. Responding to the profound impact of visitors on the distribution of local populations, Šedá conceived of a work that involved relocating a group of individuals and families to the heart of Český Krumlov for three months at the height of the tourist season. The participants were provided with starter apartments and jobs “on the basis of what Krumlov most needs,” which Šedá deemed to be “the pursuit of normal life.” The title played on the city’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage site and on the Czech words “unést” and “co,” meaning “take away” and “what,” as in “What do visitors get out of this place?” Šedá, whose work often involves social themes and who is famed for relocating an entire Czech village to London’s Tate Modern in 2011, stressed that the project was not intended to be a show for tourists, but rather a social experiment.

Houses along the banks of the Vltava River. P. N. CC BY-SA 2.0

On the opposite side of the artistic spectrum, Huawei—the Chinese electronics behemoth currently facing scrutiny from the U.S. for potential security issues—announced in January that it would build an exact facsimile of Český Krumlov at its headquarters. The Huawei campus, which lies just outside of Shenzhen in the city of Dongguan, will also count Granada, Verona, Paris, Budapest, and Bruges among its plethora of reconstructed European cities. “I heard about it when they started preparing it,” commented Cardo. “The fact that they [are] building it without at least contacting the city does not sit well with me.”

The Krumlov replica may well draw more Chinese tourists, who already represent the largest segment of visitors to the historic city. Yet for embittered locals, the mini-city could be a grimly apt representation of what their home has become: a mere palimpsest of its original iteration, and a cautionary tale depicting how capitalism and tourism can spur unwelcome transformation.

Talya Phelps

Talya hails from the wilds of upstate New York, but dreams of exploring the globe. As former editor-in-chief at the student newspaper of her alma mater, Vassar College, and the daughter of a journalist, she hopes to follow her passion for writing and editing for many years to come. Contact her if you're looking for a spirited debate on the merits of the em dash vs. the hyphen.

Indian Cuisine Is More Than Just Curry

From the steamed seafood dishes of coastal Odisha to the smoky meat skewers of the northern Punjab region, Indian cuisine has an incredible range to offer. 

Indian cuisine.CC0.

Despite the popularity of dishes like butter chicken and naan in westernized Indian restaurants, the rich history of the Indian subcontinent actually has a surprisingly diverse cuisine that ranges far beyond the bright red curries and steaming roti that often comes to mind. Thanks to the diverse geography across the country, each region has its own go-to meats, vegetables, grains and most importantly, spices. 

Indian cuisine has also been hugely impacted by its colonial history, and not just the British one that we are familiar with; the Portuguese and French also set up colonies across the southern and western parts of the country—both of which influenced the cooking styles of those regions. This, in addition to flavors from neighboring Persia, China and a variety of religious influences, have transformed Indian cuisine into a hugely popular cuisine not just across Asia, but in the western world as well. 

Setting the south Indian plate. Rajesh Pamnani. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0. 

The coastal state of Kerala lies on the southwestern tip of India and is most well known for its unique geography and natural beauty. This makes it an ideal travel destination for people interested in Ayurvedic healing, a centuries old natural medical technique that relies on a number of herbal remedies. Ayurvedic cooking is based on trying to re-balance the patient’s internal constitution using the six rasas or flavor profiles: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent and astringent. The local food and culture are both heavily influenced by the region’s 200 years as a colony under the rule of Arab settlers, the Portuguese and finally the Dutch, which added to the large Christian population in the area.

Keralan cuisine is known for its generously seasoned seafood dishes, as well as its use of tapioca, banana leaves and most famously, coconuts. The long monsoon season in this region of the country is conducive to paddy farming, making rice and rice-flour based dishes like idli and appam, different types of rice cakes and common dietary staples. Because of its coastal location, Kerala received huge imports of spices from the Middle East, which to this day can be seen in the extensive use of cardamom, cinnamon, chili and black pepper in both seafood curries and vegetarian stews. A popular dish amongst Western travelers is vindaloo, which is the local south-western variation on a Portuguese dish known as carne de vinha d’alhos, a pork dish flavored with garlic, wine and vinegar.

Odishan pakhala platter. Lopanayak. CC BY-ND 2.0.

Formerly known as Orissa, the mountainous state of Odisha is home to more than 700 beautifully preserved Hindu temples, many of which are still in use by the state’s huge Brahman population to this day. The local food is heavily influenced by the many thriving tribal cultures as well as the religious restrictions of the social caste system, which survived despite the region being part of the Muslim Mughal empire and later the southern Marathas dynasty before coming under British rule in the early 1800s.

Because of the prominent role of religion in Odia life, most of the local cuisine is based on foods believed to be the favorites of Hindu gods so that they can be given as offerings. Most dishes are prepared with ghee, a form of clarified butter, instead of regular cooking oil, and unlike most other regional Indian cuisines, not a lot of chili is used either. The local climate is favorable for the growth of mustard leaves, which is a common flavoring agent in a number of popular curries and chutneys. Odia desserts are also very unique to the region given their heavy use of dairy products, especially paneer, a local preparation of cottage cheese. It can be deep fried with brown sugar to make jalebis and is a very popular snack because of the sugar syrup it soaks in.  Paneer can also be scrambled and soaked in milk, giving it a much softer and fluffier texture before adding various flavors to make a porridge-like dish called kheer. Most commonly, the raw paneer is shaped into cake-pop sized balls and boiled in sugar syrup to make gulab jamun and rasgullas.

Traditional Meghalayan meal. Jakub Kapnusak. CC BY 2.0.

The northeastern state of Meghalaya is one of the Seven Sister States tucked between Bangladesh and Bhutan, with nearby Myanmar not too far to the east. It is located entirely on a mountain plateau and is often subject to heavy precipitation, which gives it a unique range of local vegetation. Tribal cultures are still very prominent, many of which are reminiscent of more East Asian groups due to the region’s proximity to China, which also heavily influences the local cuisine.

The two most staple ingredients in Meghalaya cuisine are rice and pork, especially when prepared with the local spice mix known as purambhi masala. In fact, local tribes even brew their own rice liquor, a clear yellow liquid called kiad that tends to contain up to 70% alcohol and is believed to have healing and curative properties. Rice noodles and dumplings made with rice paper wrappers are also very popular in the area. In parts of the state with higher altitude, locals may substitute pork for yak meat instead, which is a local delicacy that also shows the heavy influence of nearby Bhutan. Many of the local vegetable dishes make use of fermented soybeans, bamboo shoots, tree tomatoes, banana flowers and sesame seeds for texture and flavor.

Punjabi food. What The Fox Studio. CC BY-NC 2.0.

Punjab is a state located in the northwestern part of India, right on the border with Pakistan. While Sikhs make up the majority of the local population, many are descendants of Greek and Aryan invaders who came into the country thousands of years ago. The state is also completely landlocked and receives most of its irrigation from the Sutlej and Beas rivers that flow through it. This, in addition to extremely hot and dry summers, makes the area very favorable for growing wheat, which earned the state the nickname of “India’s bread-basket”.

Besides garam masala, the local spice mix composed of cumin, nutmeg, cardamom and black pepper among other condiments, pickled vegetables are a local favorite to be eaten alongside the tandoori dishes unique to Punjab. The meter-tall clay tandoor ovens are often buried in the ground and house a small wood charcoal fire at their base. They are filled with meat skewers that have been soaked in yogurt based marinades while pre-rolled naan are stuck to the sides to bake. Aside from the dry tandoori meats, Punjabi cuisine also features a variety of sauce-heavy dishes, including murgh makhani which is famously known worldwide as butter chicken. Another local favorite is kulfi, the Punjabi take on ice cream made from churned milk and sugar, often flavored with fresh mango, especially during the hot summer months.

Tanaya Vohra

Tanaya is an undergraduate student pursuing a major in Public Health at the University of Chicago. She's lived in Asia, Europe and North America and wants to share her love of travel and exploring new cultures through her writing.

5 Cave Painting Sites that Paint a Picture of Prehistoric Life

Cave paintings provide valuable knowledge about the culture of prehistoric civilizations. These five cave painting sites contain some of the oldest and most fascinating prehistoric art from around the world.

Lascaux Cave paintings in France. Bayes Ahmed. CC BY 2.0.

From Argentina to Bulgaria, humans have been creating art since the dawn of civilization. This art is sometimes the only way to glean certain details about prehistoric culture in various parts of the world. Each of the following five sites provides a unique insight into culture, religion, social life and more, as early as the Stone Age, which spanned from about 2.5 million years ago to 5,000 years ago. 

1. Bhimbetka Rock Shelters - India

Paintings of animals at Bhimbetka Rock Shelters. Arian Zwegers. CC BY 2.0. 

The cave paintings at the Bhimbetka Rock Shelters in Madhya Pradesh, India,  date from the late stone age to early historic period. These paintings and carvings reflect many realities of prehistoric life, depicting animals, religious rituals, agricultural practices and social life. Many artifacts have also been found in the Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, such as stone tools likely used for agricultural purposes. Because of the significant facts about early Indian life that have been provided by this cave art, the Bhimbetka Rock Shelters have been declared a World Heritage Site.

2. La Cueva de Los Manos - Argentina

Handprint paintings. Ryan Somma. CC BY-SA 2.0.

La Cueva de Los Manos or “the cave of hands” is aptly named; this cave painting located in Santa Cruz, Argentina is mostly a collection of handprints, estimated to have been created between 9,500 and 13,000 years ago. The handprints are believed to have been made from mineral pigments by early hunter-gatherer tribes. The meaning of the hands is unknown, but some have theorized they represent an initiation of teen boys into adulthood, due to the size of the hands. In addition to the hands, the cave also contains paintings of animals such as llamas, birds and pumas. 

3. The Magura Cave - Bulgaria

Paintings at Magura Cave. Klearchos Kapoutsis. CC BY 2.0. 

The Magura Cave in Belogradchik, Bulgaria contains an extensive number of paintings made of bat droppings between 4000-8000 years ago. There are approximately 700 paintings in the cave. The paintings depict anything from people dancing and hunting to religious rituals. The cultural significance of the themes painted, as well as the sheer number of paintings, makes the Magura Cave a significant cultural monument. 

4. Lascaux Cave Paintings - France

Painting of an animal in Lascaux Cave. Christine. McIntosh. CC BY-ND 2.0. 

The paintings of the Lascaux Cave in Dordogne, France are estimated to be 15,000-17,000 years old, stumbled upon by a group of teenage boys in 1940. Interestingly, among the approximately 600 paintings and 1,500 engravings, there is only one image of a human, making this site differ significantly from the others mentioned, which all depict daily human life in some way. In fact, the human form painted has the head of a bird. Other than this, most of the paintings are of various animals, both real and imaginary. What would be known as a modern day unicorn is even depicted. The Lascaux Cave tells us more about the imagination and storytelling practices of the people of prehistoric France than it does their concrete, daily practices.

5. Laas Geel - Somalia

Cow at Laas Geel. Najeeb. CC BY- SA 2.0. 

Laas Geel, in Hargeisa, Somalia, is a collection of rock paintings discovered in 2002. Laas Geel depicts cows, painted with a vibrant red pigment. What is interesting about these cows is that they appear to have some type of ceremonial necklace or hanging around their necks. Many of the cows also appear to be wearing crowns or have some sort of halo-like object around their heads. The cows are often depicted next to humans and dogs. These depictions indicate that cows played some sort of ceremonial role, bringing up important questions about early religion and culture in Somalia. 

Calliana Leff

Calliana is currently an undergraduate student at Boston University majoring in English and minoring in psychology. She is passionate about sustainability and traveling in an ethical and respectful way. She hopes to continue her writing career and see more of the world after she graduates.