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DECEMBER 2015
WHAT’S INSIDE
HOTELS
PAGE 10 Hotel Armour: Check Out This Hot Hotel
DESTINATION
PAGE 12
PAGE 7
Beautiful Destinations to Visit While Your Young
WE ARE PACKING OUR BAGS for WROCLAW
STYLE
PAGE 14
Best Suitcases and how to choose them
TRAVEL TIPS
PAGE 16
PAGE 21
Tips to Recover from Jet Lag Fast
WELCOME to IRELAND
PAGE 18 20 Trips to Take in Your 20’s TRAVEL STORIES
PAGE 26 Passport to Laughter: Read These Hilarious Travel Stories
CUISINE
CONTRIBUTORS Freelance Writers Erin Reese Mark Brown Christine Cusina
Editor-in-Chief Laura Binczak
PAGE 28
Public Relations Mary Kishes Abby Moore Preston Aven
Bruschetta: Straight from Italy
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LETTER from
the EDITOR Hello ABROAD Readers,
I remember the exact day when I had decided on the name abroad for this travel and leisure magazine. It was the perfect fit. I wanted to create a magazine that catered to a younger generation of people, a magazine that not only informed but inspired. I was on a mission to design a publication that offered tips and tricks on traveling, stories from other fellow travelers and a way for that 20-something to live out that dream, that dream to travel abroad. Travel is timeless, it is something that has never changed and will never change. Of course, there will be new ways to travel and new locations to explore, but the idea of travel will never change. That is what drove me to create ABROAD, the timeless idea of travel and exploration. I want everyone who reads this magazine to take that next step and do something unexpected. I want them to try something new and explore a new place. I grew up in a family that traveled all the time. As a child, I was always experiencing new cultures, places, cuisine, and people. Stepping out of my comfort zone was something that has transformed me into the young woman that I am today. In this month’s issue, you will find a fantastic freelance story written by one of our best freelance writers, Erin Reese; an article about a Polish foreign exchange student residing and going to school in the United States. This story was written to give readers a different perspective to traveling abroad, to help them gain a better understanding of what it is like for someone else to come to the United States. You will also find, in this month’s issue, an article written about a university’s marching band taking a group trip to Ireland. Many of the band members had never even stepped foot outside of the United States until this trip. A couple of the band members share their experience about traveling abroad to a place that had never been before.
“We travel not to escape life but for life not to escape us.”
Yours truly, Laura Binczak ABROAD Editor-In-Chief
Far Away from Home
7
Meet the STUDENTfrom
WROCLAW By: Erin Reese ABROAD Freelance Writer
8
H
ave you ever imagined what it’s like to move away from home? What it’s like to be hundreds of miles away from your friends and family? Well, for Rafal Winslaw, that is exactly the case, as he is an exchange student from Poland. Rafal has been away from his family and friends since the beginning of August. He will spend the remainder of the Fall semester here in Pennsylvania, taking classes at Shippensburg University, but after the winter break, he will go back to Poland to complete his master’s degree in management. He has studied at the University of Economics back in Poland, and he is currently working toward getting his bachelor’s degree in finance and accounting.
Q: How is living here different from living back home? A: Here in Pennsylvania, you have stricter laws, like with alcohol, and money is much more visible here. For example, back in Poland, education is free. One nice thing about the schools here is that the teachers are much more helpful, but ultimately, I feel that the Polish system is better.
“Honestly, I am
into a strict training plan. And I always leave some uncertainty, so that every session is a little bit of a surprise. Q: Do you like to travel? A: Honestly, I am not a traveler type. At least I wasn’t before I came to the USA. Back in Europe, I’ve been to only 6 countries outside of Poland. I think it is going to change over the next couple of years though. Q: What has your experience away from home been like? A: So far, great! Really horizon broadening! It’s my second month in the USA and I am discovering new things every weekend during my travels around eastern states. First weeks were intense because of the novelty everything around here – food, interactions with people, language, accents, even road signs. With time, I started to recognize more subtle things that were not visible during the first culture shock. And I have been only to 4 states so far!” Rafal only has a handful of weeks left in the United States, but is filling up his calendar to make the most of his time here.
not a traveler type. At least I wasn’t before I came to the USA.”
Q: So you’re an exchange student, tell me a little more about that. A: Yes, I am an exchange student from Poland. There is a program between Shippensburg and the university I attend back home. I can come here and take a semester of classes and they will all transfer back home.
Q: What do you do for fun? A: I am an amateur triathlete. I have been training for the last oneand-a-half years, and I continue my training here. It gives me lots of fun and positive energy, as I didn’t allow myself to get bored by fixing
(Above) Rafal Winslaw hikes up the side of a mountain in Poland. (Above) Houses stand side-by-side in dowtown Wroclaw.
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HOTELS
Hotel Armour: The Hipster Vacationer By: Mark Brown
Paris, France From cool art galleries and trendy cafés to the emergence of edgy styles and more, Paris has transformed into one of the most happening cities for young creatives. Hôtel Amour — situated on a nondescript street in Paris’ 9th arrondissement and from the handiwork of hotelier Thierry Costes and artist/night club entrepreneur André Saraiva — is ground zero for style stars, artists, photographers, and designers visiting The City of Lights. The decor is extremely varied, with each bedroom lovingly decorated by one of the owners’ friends (such as the French artist Sophie Calle). One room is painted entirely black, with trippy mirrored disco balls hanging overhead. The hotel’s bar and restaurant is the place to see and be seen (Olivier Zahm and Terry Richardson are frequent patrons). The charming ivy-covered courtyard space is a great, relaxing alternative for enjoying a café au lait or sipping a glass of pinot noir. Hôtel Amour — situated on a nondescript street in Paris’ 9th arrondissement and from the handiwork of hotelier Thierry Costes and artist/night club entrepreneur André Saraiva — is ground zero for style stars, artists, photographers, and designers visiting The City of Lights. 10
The Amour sign outside of Hotel Armour lights up the quiet Paris street.
The decor is extremely varied, with each bedroom lovingly decorated by one of the owners’ friends (such as the French artist Sophie Calle). One room is painted entirely black, with trippy mirrored disco balls hanging overhead. The hotel’s bar and restaurant is the place to see and be seen (Olivier Zahm and Terry Richardson are frequent patrons). The charming ivy-covered courtyard space is a great, relaxing alternative for enjoying a café au lait or sipping a glass of pinot noir. Hôtel Amour — situated on a nondescript street in Paris’ 9th arrondissement and from the handiwork of hotelier Thierry Costes
and artist/night club entrepreneur André Saraiva — is ground zero for style stars, artists, photographers, and designers visiting The City of Lights. One room is painted entirely black, with trippy mirrored disco balls hanging overhead. The charming ivy-covered courtyard space is a great, relaxing alternative for enjoying a café au lait or sipping a glass of pinot noir. It is ground zero for style stars, artists, photographers, and designers visiting The City of Lights.
For More Hip Hotels visit:
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DESTINATION
BEAUTIFUL & UNIQUE
DESTINATIONS TO SEE IN YOUR LIFETIME By: Nadine Cali
Some places like New York and London are perfect any stage in life. These 12 destinations though are especially awesome in your 20s. New cultures, amazing food, fun nightlife, these places hit the mark when it comes to traveling in your youth. By the way, I’m Margo, an expat living in Germany and completely nuts about traveling in Europe and my schnoodle, Stuart!
BARCELONA, SPAIN
Located on the Amalfi Coast, south of Naples, this little town is a true treasure. Stunning mountains leap from the clear Mediterranean for dramatic views while the UNESCO-approved village feels as though you’re in an Italian dream. The vacation destination for the stars, I claimed it here as the most beautiful place in Europe and I mean it.
Have you ever been on a tapas and sangria bar crawl? No? Go to Barcelona. While you’re there do a bit of sightseeing (like the La Sagrada Familia, Spain’s most visited sight) and soak up the sun on the Spanish coast. Great restaurants, vibrant bars and great food, Barcelona is a winner! 12
POSITANO, ITALY
BURANO ISLAND, ITALY
(Above) In the Venetian Lagoon, this little island is known as the residence for the large population of fishermen. The vibrantly colored rows of houses were historically used as beacons for finding their way home after a long day at sea. In recent years it’s become a Pinterest sensation and a true photographer’s paradise. While there be sure to try fresh octopus (but not coupled with espresso, like I did).
HALLSTATT, AUSTRIA
(Above) A shockingly beautiful lake village nestled in the Alps, Hallstatt is a true definition of European charm. Boating on the Hallstatt Lake is most scenic boat ride I’ve ever had and bucket list worthy for every traveler. 13
STYLE
Best Carry On Suitcase & How To Choose One long unless you buy
By: Kalyn Brooke at the top of the line. For the past few years, I’ve There are some good been traveling with hand-me-down luggage. And as I’ve stepped up my traveling this hasn’t been cutting it. So after my birthday I decided it was time to invest in a good bag. I was looking to spend a decent amount for something I knew would last awhile. I didn’t need something fancy, but cute never hurts, and I wanted something that would be easy to lug around. With a good sized carry on you can fit just about anything.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN LUGGAGE: Quality Wheeles & Handles These are the things that the airline won’t replace if they are broken so you want them to be good. Check out the type of material for the wheels, are they plastic or metal, do they feel sturdy. Plus, you want it to roll well so give it some tests. As for the handles, finding ones where they are a part of the suitcase, not stuck on can make a huge difference, they are much less likely to rip out.
Hard Cases Crack Easily They look sturdy, but the trend in hard cases won’t last you 14
ones out there, but they are pricey, and the ones modeled around them are typically an easy to crack plastic.
Warranties Are Key Your or amazing suitcase will be thrown around, either by you, or the airline staff. It will get dropped, bumped into things and more. Look at the warranties for the different brands. It can be worth spending more if you know you can use it forever. Other companies have fiveten years that can be helpful. You know you bought the right one when you just can’t wait to use it. I’m planning my wardrobe for my next trip and will soon be filling up my brand new Briggs & Riley. I have no doubt I’ll be able to fit everything in it I need and organize it well. Plus the warranty definitely cuts back my worries on handing it off to someone else. It really is the best carry on suitcase. With a good sized carry on you can fit just about anything. Suitcases are fun and help express your travel style. Print off packing lists and purchase suitcases when you download our app! (Scan the QR Code to dowload “Map it!”)
TRAVEL TIPS
Tips to Recover from Jet Lag—Fast! By: Aly Walansky Jet lag can make even the most exotic of vacations leave you feeling like garbage for days to come. When you have jet lag, your sleep-wake patterns are disturbed, and your body has experienced physical stress from the changes in air pressure during travel. If you have suffered from jet lag, you may feel drowsy, tired, irritable, lethargic and slightly disoriented. It’s no fun. Try to alleviate the symptoms—and the occurrence—with these tips.
Hydrate
Flying can be extremely dehydrating to the skin due to dry conditions aboard the aircraft. Also, try drinking magnesium citrate powder mixed with hot or cold water. This is an anti-stress mineral and sleep aid that will help you relax and recover and get a good night’s sleep to further help you re-set your sleep-wake pattern. You can take small travel-size sealed packets and pour one into your water bottle and sip throughout the flight.
Keep Moving Flying can be a very sedentary activity, but it doesn’t have to be. Take a walk up or down the aisles from time to time and stretch in the back. Adjust Your Watch Prior to take off, adjust your watch to your new time zone. 16
Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol
Alcohol will dehydrate your body even more, and although caffeine itself isn’t proven to cause dehydration, it is a diuretic, which can have a dehydrating effect. Resist the temptation to read a book or watch a movie. Instead, try your best to get some sleep during the flight.
Eat Healthy It is important to take care of your body while your traveling. Making healthy food choices is something that will help you in the long run when it comes to recovering from jet lag. Try eating some more fruit and vegetables as opposed to very salty foods.
Exfoliate
Re-Set Your Sleeping Pattern
When arriving at your destination (hotel, home or other), cleanse your skin and use a mild facial scrub to remove surface dry skin cells caused from flying.
To do so, stand facing the sun (make sure your eyes are protected and you are sunburn protected) for 10-15 minutes so that you get a healthy dose of sunlight.
TRAVEL TIPS
20 Trips to Take in Your 20’s By: Sarah Andrews
While there’s no perfect age to get up and go, there is something special about hitting the road and experiencing some of the world’s most incredible adventures in your twenties. Go while you’re young, single and without too much responsibility.
20. Mardi Gras- New Orleans
Head down to New Orleans to celebrate Fat Tuesday and the days leading up to Mardi Gras. Take in the full experience and order a Sazerac, stroll down busy Bourbon Street to experience visual entertainment like you’ve probably never seen before; and be sure to catch some of the parades.
19. San Fermin Festival- Pamplona, Spain
Arrive in Pamplona for the San Fermin Opening Ceremony where you will spend the morning being doused with sangria, flour and eggs and the afternoon wandering the streets filled with music and dancing.
18. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu- Peru
The ever-changing landscape of the Inca Trail will bring you over towering mountains and through the rain forest, only to end at the incredible Machu Picchu.
17. Travel to Watch the World Cup
Regardless of whether you’re a diehard soccer fan or not, watching the World Cup live is a must do!
16. Oktoberfest- Munich, Germany
Mardi Gras celebration lights up the streets of New Orleans.
Oktoberfest is a great way to end the summer festival season by squeezing into one of the fourteen massive and beautifully decorated tents, each representing one of Germany’s finest beers.
15. Burning Man- Black Rock Desert, Nevada
“Black Rock City”- a community that is based completely on art, self-expression and self-reliance.
14. The Yacht Week
Gather up your friends, choose a destination (British Virgin Islands, Thailand, Croatia, Greece or Italy), pick a yacht and get ready for The Yacht Week– it’s nothing like the real world!
13. Take a Solo Trip
The thought of venturing out into the world on a solo trip can be daunting, but learning how to make decisions alone and get yourself from place to place is a tool you will value for the rest of your life.
12. Carnival- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Carnival is the Godfather to Mardi Gras. Carnival in Rio de Janeiro takes it to a whole different level. 18
11. Motorbike through Vietnam
Start in Saigon, take a boat ride and explore the the Mekong Delta, then hop on a motorbike and explore the highlands of Vietnam.
10. California Coast Road Trip
Start in the south of California or as north as Oregon and drive the famous California Coast Route 1 Highway for the road trip of a lifetime. Between the mountains, the desert, the forests and the ocean, this drive will leave you in awe of the West Coast of California.
9. Cycle the Death Road- Bolivia
Hop on a bike and head downhill for 40 miles cycling the world’s most dangerous road.
8. Full Moon Party- Thailand
Lighted signs shine bright during the Full Moon Party in Thailand.
Every time there is a full moon, rest assured there is a Full Moon Party somewhere in Thailand.
7. Holi Festival- India
The Holi Festival, or the Festival of Colors, is an ancient Hindu religious festival that celebrates love and color. This carnival of colors is celebrated by dancing in the street, playing music and throwing colored powder at each other.
6. Party in Las Vegas
Ah, Sin City. Las Vegas is the city where you can find anything and everything and it has a little something for everyone.
5. Bay to Breakers- California
This 7.5 mile race takes place on the third Sunday in May. Runners start in the northeast part of downtown San Francisco and make their way to Ocean Beach.
4. Explore Southeast Asia
Take a month or two to go tubing in Laos, hit the beaches in Thailand, visit Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
3. Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
Make your way down the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica hitting up some of the best surf spots like Nosara and Playa Avellanas.
A group of girls pose for a quick photo at the Holi Festival in India.
2. Take a Budget Backpacking Trip in Europe
With easy train accessibility, cheap flights and loads of budget hostels, it has become increasingly easier to move from county to country around Europe on a budget while experiencing different cultures, language and food.
1. Tomorrowland- Belgium
Hop on over to Belgium to experience the largest electronic music festival in the world. Top DJ’s and thousands of people from all over the world gather here for 3-days of some of the best audio and visual stimulation you’ll receive all year. While the festival is in the city of Boom, be sure to spend a few extra days exploring Belgium by train. Belgium is one of my all-time favorite countries for beer, chocolate and frites!
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LUCK of the IRISH
21
Ireland
Bound.
Follow one marching band on a trip of a lifetime. By: Laura Binczak
S
teep cliffs run along the coastline, large stone castles sit on quiet hilltops and lush greenery covers the entire countryside. Ireland is a place unlike any other; it is home to some of the most popular landmarks in the world, from St. Patrick’s Cathedral to The Blarney Stone, Ireland is a country that thrives off its one-ofa-kind beauty and unforgettable architecture. It is a country that many people hope to experience in their lifetime, and the ones who do get the chance to wander the quaint streets and historic castles are making memories that will last a lifetime.
Each year, thousands upon thousands of people travel to Ireland in search of culture, historical landmarks, unique cuisine and 24hour pubs. But on rare occasions, very few lucky people will travel to Ireland to play in one of Dublin’s most popular musical events, the People’s Procession of Light, which is held every New Year’s Eve in the Temple Bay area of Dublin. On December 31, 2014, one south-central Pennsylvania university took the stage at the People’s Procession of Light and brought hundreds of families, visitors and locals together to celebrate the magical spirit of Ireland and to ring in the New Year. The Shippensburg University Marching Band was one of the few schools from the United States invited to perform at this unifying musical experience. Many band members had never stepped foot
outside the United States and once neat to see the inside of a castle travelers to mingle with the locals they made it to Ireland, they did not that once helped in ruling Ireland,” and look for guided tours. “I would tell someone travwant to leave. The memories they Graczyk shared. “The decorations, made will forever be unforgettable, paintings and size of the castle were eling to Ireland to talk to locals and the things they were able to ex- incredible and were really intrigu- in pubs and around the city; they ing to be able to explore the inside.” know what places are good to visit perience were breathtaking. As for Hart, her personal fa- and tour, as well as the best restau Erica Hart, a member of the SU Marching Band, has trav- vorite was the Cliffs of Moher and rants. We often asked people in our eled all over the world to Germany, getting the chance to kiss the oh-so hotel about the best places to go,” Switzerland, and even Austria, but famous Blarney Stone. Legend has Hart explained, “I would also sugsaid she recommends that everyone it that if someone kisses the Blarney gest to get guided tours, and not just should travel to Ireland. “I suggest Stone, they will be given the gift of tour castles by yourself. Although it definitely going to the Cliffs of Mo- eloquence. costs more money for guided tours, her, and travel to every castle that “The history around every- you learn a lot more of the history you can find,” she said. “Also, just walking around the cities and going into stores was very fun. And I can’t forget about all of the amazing pubs and Irish beers.” One of Hart’s good friends and fellow band member, Brianna Graczyk, also traveled outside the United States but said she has never had as much fun as she did while wandering the streets of Ireland. “I enjoyed visiting Ireland very much while I was over there,” Graczyk said. “I would like to visit it again when I am with family and in a smaller group to enjoy more time at some places rather than sticking to a schedule like we did when we were over Shippensburg University marching band poses in front of an Irish castle, during their trip to Ireland.. there.” Between the people, the food, and the gorgeous castles thing we saw was extremely fun and that definitely impacted me.” everywhere you turn, Ireland is a and interesting to learn about, and Whether you are dreaming place that welcomes all travelers to made our experience that much of taking a trip to Ireland or you visit and explore. Some of the land- more special.” have your trip already planned just marks the band had the chance to Graczyk’s advice to other remember that it is a place unlike explore while they were there were travelers is to try new things and do any other. If you have the time to the Cliffs of Moher, the Blarney not be afraid. experience everything that Ireland Stone, and Kilkenny Castle, all of “Things are just a little dif- has to offer, go for it. From the which are hot spots for tourists and ferent in other countries than what foggy mornings to mossy castles, even locals. we are typically used to in our daily Ireland drips with mystery and el Even though the band lives,” Graczyk said. “I would sug- egance. Stop by a local pub or two had explored a variety of places, gest trying new things and try ex- and enjoy a basket of fish and chips; Graczyk’s personal favorite place periencing the culture for what it is, the culture of Ireland is intoxicating was Kilkenny Castle. “This castle and do not feel embarrassed.” as well as unforgettable. was still decorated as though peo- Hart is someone who has ple were still living in it and it was traveled all over the world; she tells 23
The Face Behind the Instrument
Get to know Erica and Brianna, two of the SU marching band members
Erica Hart
Year: Senior Major: Marketing What instrument do you play in the SU Marching Band? Alto Saxophone How many years have you been playing an instrument? I started in fourth grade, so 13 years Share a fact about yourself that other people might not otherwise know: I’m a brother of Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity, and I have a twin brother.
Brianna Graczyk Year: Senior Major: Exercise Science What instrument do you play in the SU Marching Band? Alto Saxophone How many years have you been playing an instrument? 12 years Share a fact about yourself that other people might not otherwise know: I am 50 percent Irish, so getting the chance to experience my heritage was amazing.
TRAVEL STORIES The Perils and Perks of Potties in Japan
Travel Confession: I Fell in Love With a Cricket
By: Mark Civil
By: Susan Perry
I love funny travel stories, don’t you? So here’s a funny travel tale about my experiences with the toilets of Japan. Apart from fine food, great scenery and strong culture, Japan is also famous for its loos. One company called Toto makes nearly all the toilets in Japan, from a traditional squat line, right through to high tech luxury models which play music, puff out air-freshener and wash you. Yes, really. The toilets of Japan are funny and high functioning too. Earlier this year I went on my very first press trip to Japan where I was interested to check out these toilets and their perks. We were a group of five Australian travel writers, the other four, also women, were freelance writers for print and press trip veterans. I was looking forward to meeting my travel companions and knew it was going to be an interesting trip when I read stories about Japanese onsen or spa baths. We planned to visit an onsen at the end of our first day in Japan. In case you haven’t visited Japan, onsen have separate areas for men and women. The tradition is that you strip naked, line up against the wall on plastic stools and wash yourself thoroughly before going in the hot baths. I nearly wrote “wash yourselves” there but that would be wrong, you wash yourself not each other.
I’d shared my home with scorpions before in Africa but when we moved to Costa Rica it was bug central. There were scorpions under the fridge, a stick insect as long as your forearm peering in through the window and a tarantula the size of a dinner plate strolling across the patio. To begin with I shuddered, cringed and backed away but slowly things changed. With no TV, no radio and often housebound for days in this aptly named rain forest I started to get used to the uninvited visitors. Before too long I wasn’t just used to them, I kept an eye out for them and was delighted to see them no matter what they were. Soon when a critter of any description came to visit I’d call the kids over, take photos and even pose with them. We’d try to work out what these creatures were doing, see where they were going and pick them up if it seemed safe for all parties. Not all the wildlife was traditionally creepy. We cradled panic stricken hummingbirds that were trapped in the house and placed them back in the wild. We listened out for the toucans and woodpeckers that decorated our garden. We practised bellowing like howler monkeys. Those feathered and furry creatures are easy to love but traveling in Costa Rica we grew to love the seemingly unlovable. The hard shelled, spiny legged, bug-eyed beasts gradually transformed in our minds eye from ugh to ah.
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CUISINE
All About Bruschetta By: Christina Cucina
A simple and tasty dish straight from Italy. I’d like to introduce you to one of my favorite things in the world: bruschetta. Bruschetta is such a beautiful and delicious appetizer to serve, whether it is for a weeknight family meal, or for a small dinner with guests or even a large party; it’s something everyone seems to love! As I always stress, the main thing to remember to have bruschetta taste as good as it looks, is to use top quality ingredients: heirloom, organic or homegrown tomatoes are usually the best. If you do not have access to these, choose tomatoes which actually smell like tomatoes; if they are on the vine, the vine should be green and not dry. Fresh garlic, not in a jar or frozen, is key to good bruschetta, as is fresh Italian basil and good quality extra virgin olive oil. I’d also like to tell you how to correctly pronounce “bruschetta” and it’s not “brew-shettah”. The correct pronunciation is “brew-skaytah” (ch in Italian is pronounced as a “k”). For More Recipes Visit: abroadmagazine.wix.com/abroadmagazine
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Bruschetta Recipe
Ingredients: 2 or 3 medium sized tomatoes, preferably organic, heirloom or homegrown 2 or 3 cloves of fresh garlic (depending on the size) 2 or 3 leaves of fresh basil 1 1/2 to 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil about 1/2 tsp Kosher or sea salt slices of toast (try to use a crusty Italian loaf, ciabatta or a baguette) Dice the tomatoes into small cubes and put into a medium sized bowl. Next, finely mince the garlic. You can use a garlic press, but I much prefer to do it by hand or to use this little contraption I found at Williams Sonoma… it’s so much fun to use and makes perfect little cubes of garlic Add the garlic to the tomatoes. Chop one or two large basil leaves into little pieces and place all 3 ingredients into a bowl. Add a the extra virgin olive oil and Kosher or sea salt, to taste.Mix well, and if it doesn’t taste wonderful, you probably need to add more salt. All that’s left to do is to top the bread with the lovely tomato mixture and enjoy!