travel

What to pack for a Safari & Beach Holiday in Tanzania, Africa

What to pack for a Safari & Beach Holiday in Tanzania, Africa

Two weeks. Two completely different locations. Varying temperatures. All in one carryon duffle bag. 

Some would get stressed at the thought of this, but for me - I honestly enjoyed it. It was a challenge. We would be spending 1 week on a safari in and around the Serengeti, and 1 week on the island, Zanzibar. 

I will admit, I probably spent much too much time googling 'what to wear on a safari', as well as too much time shopping for 'safari outfits' - but I don't care! During the weeks leading up to this trip, it was all I could think about!

So I wanted to share my learnings, personal experiences (why did I pack so many nice sandals?? so not necessary!), and actual list of what went into that very packed red duffel bag. 

Dar Les Cigognes & The Sanssouci Moroccan Cooking School | Marrakech, Morocco

Dar Les Cigognes & The Sanssouci Moroccan Cooking School | Marrakech, Morocco

Whenever we visit a new country or culture, our favorite 'experience' is joining a cooking class.  We have taken a "French Market Cooking Class" in Paris, a "Cambodian Cooking Class" in Siem Reap and now... a Moroccan Cooking Class in Marrakech. 

I find the best way to get to know a new culture is through food. What people eat explains a lot about their society, landscape, environment and rituals. 

Living in the US, we have the option of almost EVERYTHING, and there are new restaurants, and interesting takes on cuisines constantly popping up.  But when we travel somewhere remote... we find that there are usually one or two specialties that the area is known for... and most likely, its exactly the same as what they were eating 1000 years ago.

And in Morocco... that is Tajine & Couscous.  

Dar Les Cigognes: Our Riad Oasis in Marrakech, Morocco

Dar Les Cigognes: Our Riad Oasis in Marrakech, Morocco

The maze like streets of Marrakech are filled to the brim with wonderful little hidden apartments called riads. A riad is a traditional Moroccan house or palace built around an interior garden or courtyard. Many of these have now been converted into boutique accommodations. The most spectacular feeling about a riad is - after spending a full day on the chaotic streets of the souks... walking into this calming hidden oasis you call home.

We decided on Dar Les Cigognes. For three reasons...

Weekend in Amsterdam | airbnb, bikes & the foodhallen

Weekend in Amsterdam | airbnb, bikes & the foodhallen

Taking advantage of a layover from Nuremberg to New York back in June, we took a long weekend in Amsterdam. On our first day our adventures included settling into our Airbnb apartment, attempting to ride bikes like the locals, and doing a food tasting through the Foodhallen. 

Our Must Haves List: Things we import from America

Our Must Haves List: Things we import from America

Andrew and I have been living in Germany for just about two years. And within those two years we have almost mastered the grocery shopping.

Can't find the cinnamon? Look for zimt. It's April and you're craving Kale? Be patient, it'll be back in 6 months. Need Patron Tequila? Pick it up the next time you're going through the airport dutyfree shop. 

But there are just some things... that you'd rather buy from the comfort of a Target, stop & shop or Trader Joes. (or it is just 1/4 the price to buy it in the US).

Siem Reap | Angkor Wat: What to wear & pack for the day

Siem Reap | Angkor Wat: What to wear & pack for the day

I spent hours searching on pinterest & reading blogs to figure out the perfect thing to pack for our day exploring Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Here are some of my tips on what to wear and what to pack in your bag for a day adventuring through Angkor Wat.

Living in Germany - Our 1st Year in Review

Living in Germany - Our 1st Year in Review

As of February 16th 2016, we have hit our 1 year German-iversary! And with this big milestone, I am hoping to write a few blog posts reviewing some of our favorite moments. (favorite travel destinations, favorite restaurants, etc).

But for today, I'm going to start with some of our learning experiences.

The Pares Family European Tour

The Pares Family European Tour

In October my amazing family (minus Jeffrey, Kristen, Ryan and Talia) came to visit us in Europe. As they've only visited Italy in the past, they decided to do an extensive European tour (in just two weeks!). My parents started in London, then onto Amsterdam, Brussels, Brugges, and then ended their guided tour in Paris where the rest of us "kids" came to join.