Torsdag 21 Februari 2008 - Perth
Resealbum: Road trip Margaret River
In this week’s newsletter we’ve put Australia in the spotlight, have a look here.
I would like to focus a bit on a city in the west, sometimes forgotten by tourists: Perth.
I went there in February 2007 for a Study Abroad semester at Edith Cowan University and I had a great time! Perth is the largest city of Western Australia with about 1,5 million inhabitants and also said to be the most remote capital in the world. But once you’re there, you’re going to have an awesome time!
The sun is shining and the beach is waiting for us…
Scarborough beach
On the Joondalup line- Get of at Glendalough station and catch the bus from there.
Cottesloe beach
On the Fremantle line- Get of at Cottesloe and walk down to the beach, 10 minutes.
The enthusiast surfer would go to Trigg beach, early in the morning when the surf’s good.
My roommate would get up at 6 if the wave forecast looked good. Margaret River is a great weekend trip for the experienced surfer although the waves might be a bit too much for a beginner.
My favourite is Scarborough; the beach is great with lovely waves while Cottesloe is calmer and probably more child-friendly.
Beautiful sunset at Scarborough beach.
A day trip…
At Rottnest Island you can rent bikes, go to lovely beaches and just have a day out in the sun. Meet the funny animal quokka that is typical for the island. You can also stay over night.
Catch the train to Fremantle and get on the fast-ferry to the island.
Fremantle It takes some 45 minutes or so to get to Freo, once there you can enjoy a walk down to the harbour. Have some fish n’ chips for lunch, but watch out for the seagulls, they’re everywhere and quite eager to get a bite of your food. Go to the Fremantle Markets or enjoy some of the fair-trade shops in the area. Take a break at the cappuccino strip and watch people walking by.
Instead of just going to a Zoo, try Cavershamn Wildlife Park where you can meet lots of kangaroos and other animals. There are more open spaces than in a Zoo and the experience feels more genuine.
The Aquarium of Western Australia at Hillary’s boat harbour is well worth a visit.
A lot of fun for the kids, but your age is not really a problem… Grown-ups like colourful fishes and sharks too, right!
Kings Park is an excellent picnic spot, just catch the bus from the city centre and you’ll be there in 10 minutes or so. The view over the city is amazing in daylight as well as by night.
Suburbs well-worth a visit…
Leederville (on the Joondalup line) has plenty of cafés and some cool shops as well.
You can also go to the Luna Cinema, small independent movie theatre with lots of good alternative movies and a nice café.
Fremantle has its famous market and its Cappuccino strip, excellent for a coffee in the sun.
Mt Lawley ("my" suburb) The main street, Beaufort Street has a bunch of cool clothing shops and for a break I would like to suggest Gelare. Try the waffles with ice-cream for the ultimate experience! By night you can try the flying Scotsman or the neighbour Velvet lounge for cheap beer and good music.
Subiaco has great markets on Fridays and weekends. Perfect for fresh fruits and veggies.
By night...
An ideal night out for my friends and me would start at Tiger Lili’s on 437 Murray St and past midnight we would continue to a true favourite, the indie-club The Amplifier on 393. They usually have great indie-music and good gigs and if you need a break from dancing you can hang out in their cool backyard.
Every suburb has its own pubs and bars, a little bit different from place to place.
Most of the suburbs also have a “hotel”. Try Subiaco hotel for fancy drinks and enjoy their cosy backyard.
The Northbridge-area is slightly dodgy but the young crowds are still going every weekend. Try the outdoor garden at the Brass monkey’s to have a beer or enjoy comedy night.
The Shed is another popular spot for a Saturday night, mainstream music and young people.
Further reading:
Useful information on visas
The official site for Australian Tourism
thewest.com.au The major news site of WA.
Australia’s national bus service- Greyhound.com.au
Transperth- public transport in Perth Free public transport within the city centre with CAT buses or any other bus or train too, within a designated area.
Rottnest Island
Caversham Wildlife Park
The Aquarium of Western Australia
Tiger Lili's Bar
The Amplifier- Indie rock club
Move to WA
WA Government"
I would like to focus a bit on a city in the west, sometimes forgotten by tourists: Perth.
I went there in February 2007 for a Study Abroad semester at Edith Cowan University and I had a great time! Perth is the largest city of Western Australia with about 1,5 million inhabitants and also said to be the most remote capital in the world. But once you’re there, you’re going to have an awesome time!
The sun is shining and the beach is waiting for us…
Scarborough beach
On the Joondalup line- Get of at Glendalough station and catch the bus from there.
Cottesloe beach
On the Fremantle line- Get of at Cottesloe and walk down to the beach, 10 minutes.
The enthusiast surfer would go to Trigg beach, early in the morning when the surf’s good.
My roommate would get up at 6 if the wave forecast looked good. Margaret River is a great weekend trip for the experienced surfer although the waves might be a bit too much for a beginner.
My favourite is Scarborough; the beach is great with lovely waves while Cottesloe is calmer and probably more child-friendly.
Beautiful sunset at Scarborough beach.
A day trip…
At Rottnest Island you can rent bikes, go to lovely beaches and just have a day out in the sun. Meet the funny animal quokka that is typical for the island. You can also stay over night.
Catch the train to Fremantle and get on the fast-ferry to the island.
Fremantle It takes some 45 minutes or so to get to Freo, once there you can enjoy a walk down to the harbour. Have some fish n’ chips for lunch, but watch out for the seagulls, they’re everywhere and quite eager to get a bite of your food. Go to the Fremantle Markets or enjoy some of the fair-trade shops in the area. Take a break at the cappuccino strip and watch people walking by.
Instead of just going to a Zoo, try Cavershamn Wildlife Park where you can meet lots of kangaroos and other animals. There are more open spaces than in a Zoo and the experience feels more genuine.
The Aquarium of Western Australia at Hillary’s boat harbour is well worth a visit.
A lot of fun for the kids, but your age is not really a problem… Grown-ups like colourful fishes and sharks too, right!
Kings Park is an excellent picnic spot, just catch the bus from the city centre and you’ll be there in 10 minutes or so. The view over the city is amazing in daylight as well as by night.
Suburbs well-worth a visit…
Leederville (on the Joondalup line) has plenty of cafés and some cool shops as well.
You can also go to the Luna Cinema, small independent movie theatre with lots of good alternative movies and a nice café.
Fremantle has its famous market and its Cappuccino strip, excellent for a coffee in the sun.
Mt Lawley ("my" suburb) The main street, Beaufort Street has a bunch of cool clothing shops and for a break I would like to suggest Gelare. Try the waffles with ice-cream for the ultimate experience! By night you can try the flying Scotsman or the neighbour Velvet lounge for cheap beer and good music.
Subiaco has great markets on Fridays and weekends. Perfect for fresh fruits and veggies.
By night...
An ideal night out for my friends and me would start at Tiger Lili’s on 437 Murray St and past midnight we would continue to a true favourite, the indie-club The Amplifier on 393. They usually have great indie-music and good gigs and if you need a break from dancing you can hang out in their cool backyard.
Every suburb has its own pubs and bars, a little bit different from place to place.
Most of the suburbs also have a “hotel”. Try Subiaco hotel for fancy drinks and enjoy their cosy backyard.
The Northbridge-area is slightly dodgy but the young crowds are still going every weekend. Try the outdoor garden at the Brass monkey’s to have a beer or enjoy comedy night.
The Shed is another popular spot for a Saturday night, mainstream music and young people.
Further reading:
Useful information on visas
The official site for Australian Tourism
thewest.com.au The major news site of WA.
Australia’s national bus service- Greyhound.com.au
Transperth- public transport in Perth Free public transport within the city centre with CAT buses or any other bus or train too, within a designated area.
Rottnest Island
Caversham Wildlife Park
The Aquarium of Western Australia
Tiger Lili's Bar
The Amplifier- Indie rock club
Move to WA
WA Government"
Måndag 18 Februari 2008 - New York
Have you heard of the completely green bakery in New York City?
Birdbath, Neighbourhood Green Bakery sure is something special. The pastries are of course made from organic ingredients, but it doesn't end there. The walls are made from wheat, the countertop display is made from 100 % recycled paper and the cups are made from corn. The paint is non-toxic and the lightning is energy-saving. They make their transports within the city on a bicycle-driven rickshaw and you actually get a 25 % discount if arriving on a bike or skateboard. The staff's dressed in linen, hemps and vintage clothing. Make sure to visit this green sensation if you're in NY any time soon.
Located in the West village on 175 7th Ave.
Have a look at their website.
Birdbath, Neighbourhood Green Bakery sure is something special. The pastries are of course made from organic ingredients, but it doesn't end there. The walls are made from wheat, the countertop display is made from 100 % recycled paper and the cups are made from corn. The paint is non-toxic and the lightning is energy-saving. They make their transports within the city on a bicycle-driven rickshaw and you actually get a 25 % discount if arriving on a bike or skateboard. The staff's dressed in linen, hemps and vintage clothing. Make sure to visit this green sensation if you're in NY any time soon.
Located in the West village on 175 7th Ave.
Have a look at their website.
Tisdag 12 Februari 2008 - Perth
Resealbum: Road trip Margaret River
Are you dropping by Perth, Australia any time soon? Maybe you're there already? Great!
Right now the Perth International Arts Festival is on and you don't want to miss it!
Lots of festivities and performing arts, theatre, music and lots of other things are going on all over the city. I was there last year myself and enjoyed outdoor-cinema, opera in the park and lots of other great stuff! Have a look here to see what's on right now. The festival is only on between the 8th of February and the 2nd of March and some of the events are even for free!
This is what it looked like last year when we where there:
Blurry photo from Opera in the park.
Me and my friend Frankie having an awesome chocolate cake after the show...
This year there are also some great gig's at Beck's Music Box during the festival.
If you like Fiest, Nouvelle Vague or Sonic Youth. Have a look here.
Right now the Perth International Arts Festival is on and you don't want to miss it!
Lots of festivities and performing arts, theatre, music and lots of other things are going on all over the city. I was there last year myself and enjoyed outdoor-cinema, opera in the park and lots of other great stuff! Have a look here to see what's on right now. The festival is only on between the 8th of February and the 2nd of March and some of the events are even for free!
This is what it looked like last year when we where there:
Blurry photo from Opera in the park.
Me and my friend Frankie having an awesome chocolate cake after the show...
This year there are also some great gig's at Beck's Music Box during the festival.
If you like Fiest, Nouvelle Vague or Sonic Youth. Have a look here.
Torsdag 7 Februari 2008 - Göteborg
In two weeks from now I’ll be going to London for a long weekend. I can’t wait!
I’ve never been to London before and I am very excited. I am visiting friends that will take good care of me, but I would still like your help on ideas on what to do and where to go! Can anyone recommend good vegetarian restaurants or cool clubs? Where can I find good shopping (preferably not the big chains)? Insider information from Londoners would be great!
Thanks!
I’ve never been to London before and I am very excited. I am visiting friends that will take good care of me, but I would still like your help on ideas on what to do and where to go! Can anyone recommend good vegetarian restaurants or cool clubs? Where can I find good shopping (preferably not the big chains)? Insider information from Londoners would be great!
Thanks!
Måndag 28 Januari 2008 - Oslo
This weekend I went to Oslo to visit a friend of mine. The major reason was to take part in her housewarming party but I also got a day out in the sun before returning to Sweden.
It only takes four hours by bus from Swedish Gothenburg to the Norwegian capital Oslo. The city is beautifully situated at the waterfront and the nature is always close even in the city.
Four hours became five due to a traffic jam and it was good to finally arrive. We went for a quick look at the big mall Oslo City and had lunch at our favourite fast-food place Bit. I had a very nice spinach and feta Calzone. Yummie. The night was spent at my friend’s house in Bjolsen with many friends alot of cake and um, well a few drinks too.
We woke up on Sunday morning and the weather was simply great! The snow that had been falling during the night was still there and the sun was shining bright. So we did what every Norwegian love to do. We went on a small excursion! This Sunday we went to, the lovely Frogner park. A very popular spot to visit during weekends to enjoy the sun and look at the statues from Gustav Vigeland.
Read more about the Frogner Park and Gustav Vigeland.
It only takes four hours by bus from Swedish Gothenburg to the Norwegian capital Oslo. The city is beautifully situated at the waterfront and the nature is always close even in the city.
Four hours became five due to a traffic jam and it was good to finally arrive. We went for a quick look at the big mall Oslo City and had lunch at our favourite fast-food place Bit. I had a very nice spinach and feta Calzone. Yummie. The night was spent at my friend’s house in Bjolsen with many friends alot of cake and um, well a few drinks too.
We woke up on Sunday morning and the weather was simply great! The snow that had been falling during the night was still there and the sun was shining bright. So we did what every Norwegian love to do. We went on a small excursion! This Sunday we went to, the lovely Frogner park. A very popular spot to visit during weekends to enjoy the sun and look at the statues from Gustav Vigeland.
Read more about the Frogner Park and Gustav Vigeland.
Måndag 21 Januari 2008
It’s easier said than done to keep track of everything that’s going on in the world.
I’m presenting a couple of events, monthly, right here in my blog.
February 2008
2-5 February
Let the samba-rhythms swipe you off your feet, visit the carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The carnival is known for being THE bash of the year with street-parties, music and dancing. The brave one can also join the parades; a costume is all you need. Make sure not to bring valuables or too much cash out in the crowds. CNN have had a recent article about carnival safety. Use your common sense to stay safe. Read more about the festivities here.
3 February
Superbowl XLII is American football at its best in Glendale, Arizona. This pro football championship is taking place on the University of Phoenix stadium. The winning team is assigned NFL’s best football team of the year. While you’re in Glendale why not stay a little longer? The conditions for outdoor sports and hiking are excellent in Arizona with as much as 325 days of sun a year. Read more about the Superbowl XLII
17 February
If you’re into motor sport, don’t miss out on the 50th running of the race Daytona 500 in Daytona beach, Florida, USA. The race is called the great American race and is the very prestigious ending of a ten-day long motor sport cavalcade. Learn more. Make sure to take some time to relax down by the beach as well.
Something to add? Have you visited the events previous years? Are we missing out on any cool events going on in your hometown? Feel free to leave a comment!
I’m presenting a couple of events, monthly, right here in my blog.
February 2008
2-5 February
Let the samba-rhythms swipe you off your feet, visit the carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The carnival is known for being THE bash of the year with street-parties, music and dancing. The brave one can also join the parades; a costume is all you need. Make sure not to bring valuables or too much cash out in the crowds. CNN have had a recent article about carnival safety. Use your common sense to stay safe. Read more about the festivities here.
3 February
Superbowl XLII is American football at its best in Glendale, Arizona. This pro football championship is taking place on the University of Phoenix stadium. The winning team is assigned NFL’s best football team of the year. While you’re in Glendale why not stay a little longer? The conditions for outdoor sports and hiking are excellent in Arizona with as much as 325 days of sun a year. Read more about the Superbowl XLII
17 February
If you’re into motor sport, don’t miss out on the 50th running of the race Daytona 500 in Daytona beach, Florida, USA. The race is called the great American race and is the very prestigious ending of a ten-day long motor sport cavalcade. Learn more. Make sure to take some time to relax down by the beach as well.
Something to add? Have you visited the events previous years? Are we missing out on any cool events going on in your hometown? Feel free to leave a comment!
Torsdag 17 Januari 2008 - Västerhaninge
Are you afraid of the dark? Hopefully not. Ever wondered what it would feel like to be blind and not being able to see anything at all? This Saturday is the grand opening night for The Iris black restaurant where you can dine in complete darkness. The hosts are all blind or visually impaired and the idea is to toss the general roles around. The guests get to "walk in the shoes of a blind person" for a night and the dining-experience is taken to a whole new level.
The restaurant at Almåsa Conference facility outside of Stockholm,Sweden opened already in the spring of 2006 but is now finally open for everyone. Read more here.
Other places to enjoy a dinner in the dark:Cologne, London or Los Angeles.
The restaurant at Almåsa Conference facility outside of Stockholm,Sweden opened already in the spring of 2006 but is now finally open for everyone. Read more here.
Other places to enjoy a dinner in the dark:Cologne, London or Los Angeles.
Torsdag 10 Januari 2008 - Köpenhamn
Sometimes, finding a place to stay is hard work. If you're after something special it might be even harder. Go to Copenhagen if you are interested in interior design and want to make something special out of your stay. Copenhagen this week is writing about accommodation that literally ARE design.
First hotel Stk. Petri
Stay with style in a 5-star design hotel.
Hotel Fox
Each room has its own design and is a true piece of art.
Photos from hotelfox.dk.
Danhostel Copenhagen City
Great design hostel for the budget traveller.
First hotel Stk. Petri
Stay with style in a 5-star design hotel.
Hotel Fox
Each room has its own design and is a true piece of art.
Photos from hotelfox.dk.
Danhostel Copenhagen City
Great design hostel for the budget traveller.
Torsdag 10 Januari 2008 - Göteborg
Always in a hurry when leaving for a trip? Maybe you got a hold of a last minute ticket or just feel like being spontaneous? That's cool, but make sure you're not forgetting about important stuff like insurance, passport, visa or vaccinations.
A couple of things to think about:
Do you hold valid Travel insurance?
Do you need any vaccinations?
Do you need a visa?
Have you got a valid passport? For how long? (Some countries would want it to be valid even some time after you’ve gone back home.)
Do some research about the destination. Talk to people who’ve been there already.
Keep in touch with the ones at home. Let them know where you’re heading.
Do you need cash upon arrival? (In most cases you are fine with your VISA or Mastercard but sometimes you might need some cash.)
Check your own country's foreign office website, they have current recommendations and up to date travel advice and it's a good idea to have a look before you're leaving. What are the conditions like on the destination at the moment? Any current recommendations?
Find foreign office websites for a few countries below or try google to find them.
The UK
Germany
France
Sweden
A couple of things to think about:
Do you hold valid Travel insurance?
Do you need any vaccinations?
Do you need a visa?
Have you got a valid passport? For how long? (Some countries would want it to be valid even some time after you’ve gone back home.)
Do some research about the destination. Talk to people who’ve been there already.
Keep in touch with the ones at home. Let them know where you’re heading.
Do you need cash upon arrival? (In most cases you are fine with your VISA or Mastercard but sometimes you might need some cash.)
Check your own country's foreign office website, they have current recommendations and up to date travel advice and it's a good idea to have a look before you're leaving. What are the conditions like on the destination at the moment? Any current recommendations?
Find foreign office websites for a few countries below or try google to find them.
The UK
Germany
France
Sweden
Torsdag 3 Januari 2008
The photo of the week contest is now closed.
Photo of the week- Hall of fame
Look at all the lovely photos below and check out more from the winners by clicking their name.
2008
Week 9 "Äkäslompolo"
Photo by: Ylvali
Week 8 "Finally..."
Photo by: Piranha
Week 7 "Friend"
Photo by: Mandel
Week 6 "Bora Bora"
Photo by: Anna_j
Week 5 "Antarctica"
Photo by: Alva
Week 4 "Nepal"
Photo by: Sanook2
Week 3 "Sunset"
Photo by: Nonos
Week 2 "Lion"
Photo by: Saturnusfrog
Week 1 "India"
Photo by: Larissa
2007
Week 51 "Camel"
Photo by: Ewester
Week 50 "Wishing pond"
Photo by: Reginanomade
Are you not a member yet? Sign up for your free membership today!
Photo of the week- Hall of fame
Look at all the lovely photos below and check out more from the winners by clicking their name.
2008
Week 9 "Äkäslompolo"
Photo by: Ylvali
Week 8 "Finally..."
Photo by: Piranha
Week 7 "Friend"
Photo by: Mandel
Week 6 "Bora Bora"
Photo by: Anna_j
Week 5 "Antarctica"
Photo by: Alva
Week 4 "Nepal"
Photo by: Sanook2
Week 3 "Sunset"
Photo by: Nonos
Week 2 "Lion"
Photo by: Saturnusfrog
Week 1 "India"
Photo by: Larissa
2007
Week 51 "Camel"
Photo by: Ewester
Week 50 "Wishing pond"
Photo by: Reginanomade
Are you not a member yet? Sign up for your free membership today!