Traveler and Tourist - The Nature Edition Mar/Apr 2022

traveler and tourist Issue 25 mar-apr 2022

the nature issue

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listen to our curated themed playlist as you read the magazine!

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editor’s note Welcome to the March-April edition of Traveler and Tourist magazine!

Our Nature issue this month is one we are excited to bring you. As spring and summer weather begins to make an appearance here on the west coast where we are located, the number of outdoor activities increase and everyone is looking for ways to enjoy the natural scenery around them.

Especially here in California, we are truly spoilt for choice when it comes to outdoor options for time spent with friends and family - from state and national parks to neighborhood gardens, hiking trails to kayaking, and, of course, a multitude of activities to indulge in along the coastline, whether that’s action-packed watersports or adrenaline-spiking whalewatching adventures.

Our destinations in this issue are some of our favorites from Lake Charles in Louisiana, to Huntington Beach in California and the stunning city of Stockholm in Sweden.

Each provide so many great ways to spend time in nature, alone or with company. We hope you get to visit these spots soon and partake in some of the experiences we were privy to.

As always, the monthly giveaway of a bag full of travel related goodies is up for grabs. To enter, simply sign up to receive the magazine alert directly to your email inbox. If you’ve already subscribed, then you are already entered to win the monthly goody bag…that simple! Additional giveaways are hosted online so follow all the social media channels linked below here to stay abreast of our adventures and other alerts.

Follow us on social media and tell us how you enjoy your spring and summer. We hope the playlist we put together for you with this issue keeps you good company through your travels.

For now, please enjoy the Nature edition of Traveler and Tourist. Stay well. Be safe.

editor’s pick

Editor and Publisher: Ruksana Hussain Creative Director: Parker Shatkin Editorial Assistant: Ruqaiyah Hussain Cover photo: Skansen, Stockholm, Sweden Photo by Ruksana Hussain

Ruksana Hussain

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IN THIS ISSUE on our radar design district culinary delights Huntington Beach, CA, pg 30

east coast destination special focus west coast destination plan a vacation international destination Liquid inspiration Health on the go Tech talk shelf esteem

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Stockholm, Sweden, pg 40

Traveler and Tourist magazine is published online in California, USA and distributed digitally to subscribers worldwide. No portion of this magazine can be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from publisher. All information gathered within is considered to be reliable,but accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed. ISSN 2576-5175.

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our india readers are canada uk all over the usa italy world! australia

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mexico france ireland vietnam

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31 globally inspired salad recipes free download now available on traveler and tourist 11

on our radar

on our radar

Indulge in these healthy food brands when traveling and at home!

Plants By People First things first, take care of your gut health. In awe of the restorative power of plants and the dynamic principles of herbal medicine, this brand set out to transform ancient knowledge for modern lifestyle, developing flavor-packed beverage blends to support balance and wellness, and make you feel good inside.

Good & Tasty Bakes These sugar-free, all natural, keto-friendly treats are the perfect size for anyone looking for a pre-portioned healthy dessert. Each mini cheesecake contains only 4-6 grams of net carbs and is free from grains and gluten.

They truly are the better-for-you treat. They also have a Pumpkin Cheesecake option in mini form for those wanting that winning flavor combination.

Mark T. Wendell Tea Co. We all know drinking tea is good for your health, but it can be hard to know which types to try out. Let Mark T. Wendell Tea Co. help you out on your tea drinking journey.

Since 1904, Mark T. Wendell has been synonymous with superior taste and coveted luxury tea blends. That promise started with the original owner and it hasn’t changed in the past 50 years, with new generations carrying on the legacy.

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So Shape So Shape was created from a need for a dieting option that worked. Using scientific data and advice from the top food scientists across France, So Shape is an easy diet plan that you can comfortably stick with and combine with your usual routine. The So Shape Challenge is made up of 5, 14, or 28 days of tasty meals, featuring a variety of flavors to help you really stick to it and reach your goal. Just swap two meals for So Shape ones, the third is rule-free.

Sepoli Sepoli’s Datehini is a blend of 100% certified organic Medjool dates and sesame tahini, the most healthy, go-to spread you can include in your diet this month. The blend is available in three flavors; original, cinnamon, and vanilla which are all great for spreading on crepes, toast, dipping apples and bananas, blended in smoothies, oatmeal and so much more. With zero added sugar, non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free, peanut-free, soy-free, and vegan, Datehini is something you can feel good about indulging in.

Small Town Cultures The road to good health is paved with good intestines. Small Town Cultures gourmet plant-based probiotics are smallbatch, handmade in beautiful, recycled glass containers.

These raw fermented foods include sliced jalapenos, cardamom beets, turmeric kimchi, spicy radish, Meyer lemon, and more, to support your gut health in the tastiest way possible. Crafted in Keene, New York, using mountain water from the Adirondacks, all clean offerings are made without vinegar or sugar and no additives or preservatives.

The products are gluten-free, vegan, non-GMO, and ketofriendly, accommodating just about every diet. m

(Images provided by respective brands)

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Design District

Berlin’s Many Attractions Lure Global Design Enthusiasts There is no disputing the fact that Germany’s capital is at the heart of art, design, architecture, crafts, and many other creatively fueled fields. One look at Berlin and all the events held here annually, and you know any design aficionado will enjoy their time visiting the city. Well, here are a few venues to further fire up your artsy inclinations.

Some of these older locations have added to Berlin being top of mind for visitors and residents. And there a few new additions to add to your list too!

Humboldt Forum Europe’s largest and most significant cultural construction project is completed and is now open to the public. Located adjacent to Museum Island in Berlin’s historic center, the Franco Stelladesigned full-size reproduction of the former 16th century Hohenzollern palace, formerly located at the same site, replicates three of the original baroque facades, with a minimalist fourth façade, a massive, covered courtyard and a state-of-theart interior. The Humboldt Forum is Berlin’s new highlight and landmark and is designed as a unique venue for the dialogue of world cultures.

The original palace was damaged during WWII and later demolished by the GDR system to make room for the East German Parliament, which in turn was demolished after the city’s reunification.

The palace is opening as a new cosmopolitan space for culture, art, and science. The Humboldt Forum features almost 323,000 square feet of exhibition space, including four permanent exhibitions, workshop spaces for cultural education, the Lustgarten outdoor space and seven restaurants ranging from bistro-style to gourmet dining.

Some 1,000 events per year will eventually take place at the Humboldt Forum, underscoring the institution’s purpose of being a space for discourse and culture.

New National Gallery After completing a six-year renovation, Berlin’s Neue Nationalgalerie (New National Gallery)

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has reopened. The iconic steel and glass building is a landmark of modern architecture. Designed by Mies van der Rohe and completed in 1968 as a museum for 20th century art, the New National Gallery was the architect’s last building erected in Germany after WWII. He died shortly after the opening. Van der Rohe’s modernist vision of creating fluid, open spaces is reflected in the design of the glazed upper pavilion of the gallery. The Neue Nationalgalerie not only stands as an icon of modernism, but as testament to a visionary architect of the 20th century. No major work had been done on the building since its opening. Renovations began in 2015 and were overseen by David Chipperfield Architects, to repair all damaged features and correct serious safety deficits, while preserving the visual aspect of the building.

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© visitBerlin, photo: Chris Martin Scholl. Humboldt Forum.

House of One: Three Religions, One House Berlin is soon to become home to something truly unique. Jews, Christians, and Muslims are planning to build a house of worship here–one that brings a synagogue, a church, and a mosque together under one roof. The three separate sections will be linked by a communal room in the center of the building. This will serve as a meeting place, where worshippers and members of the public can come together and learn more about the religions and each other. The House of One is a contemporary expression of religious life and as such must be expressed in an equally modern architectural language.

National Monument to Freedom and Unity Now under construction in front of the new Humboldt Forum, Germany’s National Monument to Freedom and Unity will be dedicated to the men and women who peacefully fought for the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, bringing about the reunification of Berlin and Germany. Designed as a kinetic bowl,

the monument resembles a seesaw, gently shifting as visitors gather on top of it. The Milla & partnerdesigned 164 x 59 feet sculpture symbolizes the power of joint action, communication, and participation.

Museum of the 20th Century at Kulturforum Berlin’s most interesting construction site is located at the Kulturforum between the Neue Nationalgalerie and the Berlin Philharmonic Hall, where in the next few years the Museum of the 20th Century will be built. The new museum will be designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron, and will—eventually together with the New National Gallery—display collections of 20th century art.

These are but five stops to your itinerary when you visit Berlin next. There are so many more so remember to check in on the Visit Berlin website to see what is open during your time there. Where will you go? m

Left: © visitBerlin, photo: Dagmar Schwelle. Brandenburger Tor Regierungsviertel.

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Culinary Delights

Plan the Perfect Picnic in Nature A few additions to your picnic preparation list that we know you’ll love!

Erin’s Elderberries Handmade using certified organic ingredients and local raw honey, they are kid-friendly and eco-friendly. Erin’s Elderberries specializes in many products, including cookies, teas, vinaigrette, and food + drink supplements utilizing (healthy) syrups and drink mixers to make the best cocktails, or mocktails, in vibrant colors.

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Giorgio Cookie Co. No picnic is complete without delicious desserts! Offering an incredible and delicious variety of treats, Giorgio’s bestselling Signature White Chocolate Raspberry Cookie and their seasonal biscotti White Chocolate Lemon Pistachio is a whole lot of love and care into every bite to ensure you have the best gourmet cookies ever.

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Culinary Delights

Bell’s Cookie Co. For traditional, freshly baked, nostalgic cookies, Bell’s Cookie Co. is the way to go. The family-owned cookie shop delivers nationwide with their cookies individually wrapped to remain fresh and boxed to never arrive crumbled. With 12 traditional and unique flavors, you’re sure to be impressed with the treats.

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Andie’s Eats The perfect portable dessert are these delicious cake scraps in a jar from Andie’s Eats. With flavors like Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough (chocolate chip vanilla cake layered with cookie dough frosting, pieces of edible cookie dough and chocolate crunchies), your picnic will be oh so sweet!

OMG! Pretzels Ridiculously delicious gourmet flavored sourdough pretzel nuggets with eight bold and innovative flavors, crafted by a mom and daughter team in the United States provide picnic perfection with flavors like Salty Butterscotch, Lemon Pepper, or Cheddar Jalapeño. m

(Images provided by respective brands)

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east coast destination

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Lake Charles is Your Louisiana Playground

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Exhibits at the Imperial Calcasieu Museum.

The state of Louisiana is synonymous with a few things—NOLA, Mardi Gras, Creole and Cajun culture, food, and music—but you better add Lake Charles to that list! The area offers much to experience away from the crowds that visit some of the other larger cities. Here’s just a quick glance…

See and Do To better familiarize yourself with your surroundings, a trip to the Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point is recommended. The exhibits give you an inkling of some of the experiences you can expect during your time in the area. Next, head out on the trail itself, all 180 miles of it, which I am told takes a full day to cover or multiple visits to take it all in at a leisurely pace.

Imperial Calcasieu Museum is a good spot for a stop to understand the Mardi Gras history and heritage while also viewing work by local artists in the adjoining gallery. There are quite a few costumes on display and plenty more in storage to keep the exhibits rotating over the months.

One thing you cannot miss here are the zydeco tunes. Immerse yourself in zydeco history with music from local faves such as Brandon Ledet and Harold Guillory, who continue to keep the

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musical tradition alive. The sound of the accordion and some of the specific instruments used are unique and easily recognizable from miles away.

The City Hall, a historic venue, offers arts exhibits but local artists and a few traveling exhibits as well.

Request a guided tour to learn more about the building and the displays.

For shopping, look no further than Flock of Five Gift and Art Emporium for souvenirs and items made by local artists. The 7,000-sq-ft shopping destination is housed in an old post office building and can be quite the maze of unexpected surprises so give yourself ample time to spend here.

If you have time for a drive through, then the Charpentier historic district is a gift! The Victorian style architecture from the1800s is fascinating. There were no architects of record until later years so this is basically the style of the carpenters that lived there then, and it’s quite fascinating to observe the details.

For your stay, may we recommend the Golden Nugget Hotel, which does have that casino feel but without the crowds of Vegas! Depending on the location of your room, you could witness some nice views of the sunset and/or overlooking the pool. Soak in the large bathtub and enjoy the spacious room, which also has a work desk and booth so whether this is a leisure or work trip, you are covered.

Dine and Wine The dining options here are plenty and each impresses in its own way. Drago’s at L’Auberge is your spot for charbroiled oysters, and Daiquiris and Dogs is one of the new restaurants at the hotel, with a king cake daiquiri offering to entice.

Insane Sausage, a family-owned business, has found a loyal following in the last year or two. The number of sausage options here are overwhelming but to start with the top sellers is probably a good idea. In this case, that would be the crawfish, steak and shrimp, and boudin.

Mardi Gras is a great time to visit Lake Charles.

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east coast destination For your traditional meal of a hearty crawfish boil and accompaniments, Seafood Palace is the spot. Residents and visitors flock here for local delicacies. Get ready to work with your hands because eating crawfish is its own art and skill! It is served with boiled potatoes and corn, and sides you can try include boudin balls, gumbo, pistolette, and more.

Luna Bar and Grill is a great dinner spot, what with the eclectic wall murals and musical references everywhere. Chef Dave Evans and team offer fabulous bites—the luna tuna is the famed dish, but every single one on the menu is just as delicious and a must try while here.

Your taste buds will have quite the party with local delicacies galore.

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Bodega Wine Dive is where you want to head to for a comfy casual dinner, cozy atmosphere and some splendid drinks and bites. Their cocktails are winners as are the pizzas and the grilled cheese sandwiches.

For a one-of-a-kind dining experience, head on over to Crying Eagle Brewery, the only brewery in Lake Charles, and with a lovely outdoor area to boot. The craft brewery has beers you won’t find anywhere else, and sumptuous food to compliment the flavors.

The Villa Harlequin proves a charming dinner spot featuring Italian food with a Louisiana twist. Chef Amanda

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The outdoors beckon in Lake Charles. Finding a spot for a picnic or some morning yoga is a treat!

does not hold back in packing the flavor punch on every plate that leaves the kitchen. An apt venue for a quieter dinner or a big party celebration too if that’s what you are in the mood for.

To start the next day of sightseeing, have breakfast at Coffee:30. Beignets, breakfast sandwiches and other goodies welcome you to the morning. Another spot to caffeine up is The Village Coffee House in Sulphur.

Aside from hearty breakfast offerings, you will find it interesting that they also have a ‘pay what you want’ concept for some of their items!

While the crowds head to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, you can experience it at Lake Charles instead. The family friendly version lasts a few hours and sees much of the city turning up for the parade.

Indulge in all the music, fun, food and festivities along a few miles’ stretch while collecting colorful beads, little toys, candy and more thrown by float participants into the crowd. If you are lucky, you might have a bag of little treats to take home after the event along with some fabulous memories! m

(Images by Ruksana Hussain)

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special focus

Transformed New Art Hostel Opens Doors in Leeds Offering inventive and imaginative accommodation to curious and creative travelers, the new Art Hostel has opened in Mabgate, Leeds, as a radical, transformed space featuring beds for up to 60 guests spread across 12 remarkable rooms—affordable and truly unique accommodation for backpackers, artists, and tourists.

A blend of private en suite rooms and dorms are available for guests to book.

The independent social enterprise space is opening as Leeds becomes a hot bed for creative travelers. Each room is individually designed by commissioned artists: including a room focused on 1980s protest culture, a sensory safe space that has been designed to be accessible for people with disabilities, a room inspired by local East African communities, and another room inspired by West Yorkshire’s textile industry.

The Art Hostel is a fun, affordable and comfortable creative place to stay. Popular with artists, musicians and creative people visiting the Yorkshire region, it is ideally placed to welcome travelers as the United Kingdom continues to see a ‘staycation’ boom these past few months.

East Street Arts has commissioned artists to design each space, offering insight into each artist’s mind and artistic practice. The artists have been chosen to breathe life into

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special focus

the new Art Hostel, making a truly original and inspiring space to stay.

The Art Hostel is the first social enterprise in the UK providing affordable accommodation created by artists.

Developed by contemporary art charity, East Street Arts, which has supported artists internationally for more than 25 years.

Leeds has a thriving independent grassroots and DIY art scene and Art Hostel contributes to the experience of visiting and staying in Leeds, encouraging visitors to access the artistic underbelly. The Art Hostel provides the physical infrastructure for you to get involved: to make, create, debate, sleep and explore.

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mar/apr 2022 Commissioned artists include • Alison Smith, Ziggy Wingle - the artist worked with the Shakespeare Primary School, in Leeds, to design a playful and interactive room based on play and primary colors, incorporating children’s games, traditions and imagination into a room that pops.

• Matilya Njau, Green Fingers - in this room, the artist transformed the atmosphere of the East Leeds urban jungle into a calm green oasis - reducing the venue’s carbon footprint.

• Wanderlust Social Club - It’s Up To You - this creative duo used inspiration from Leeds’ long history of protest movements to create a spectacular room that pays tribute to the radical ideas that have shaped the city’s unique identity. m

(Images by Hannah Platt)

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west coast destination

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Experience Surf City USA in Huntington Beach

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west coast destination

Get your chocolate fix at Bella Sophia Chocolates.

A beach lover’s paradise with 10 miles of open coastline, 100 years of surf history, endless summer weather and inviting blue waves, Huntington Beach is a city with endless possibilities for visitors to enjoy and indulge in the beauty of the area. From sunset bonfires and kayaking with family to hiking and sea fishing, your time with nature is unlimited. If you are traveling into the city, then remember that three major airports are just within a 45-minute drive!

STAY Many well-known hotel brands call HB home but the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa brings its own charm. The hotel occupies pride of place with direct views of the water. You also get direct access to the beach thanks to a walkover bridge that can be accessed any time of night or day. Aside from fantastic restaurants on-site, this Spanish-style property

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mar/apr 2022 also has a lovely pool area (which gets busy very quickly so remember to snatch that coveted spot early in the day), fabulous spa (highly recommend keeping aside a day to enjoy the serenity inside), and cozy nooks for reading or enjoying a hot cup of coffee. Watertable, the restaurant here, is a sophisticated venue, both in terms of design and cuisine, and presents award-winning fare.

PLAY HB has a walkable downtown with sidewalks and bike paths along Pacific Coast Highway so a leisurely stroll or bike ride to enjoy sunrises, sunsets and everything in between is recommended. The city also has an all-electric and free transit service called the Circuit that services the downtown area, including hotels, and you can request a ride using the mobile app. Head over to Pacific City right on the highway for an oceanfront shopping, dining, and entertainment destination.

Drop by Bella Sophia Chocolates at Pacific Left: Learn all about the local surf history.

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Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach and Resort provides the perfect beach getaway for all.

City for a chocolate tasting that will make you never want to leave. The couple owning the business have gorgeous chocolate creations all handmade by them at their local chocolaterie and beautifully displayed at their venue within the mall. They tend to run out of their stunning creations fairly quickly especially during special holidays so remember to get your orders in early. The HB Art Center and Surfing Museum are both great spots to visit when in the city.

Several self-guided walking tour options are available to immerse yourself in the area’s history.

DINE For brekkie, head straight to Sweet Elle Café where the indoor/outdoor seating provides a casual and comfortable space to enjoy tacos, sandwiches, and pies. Or stop by AOSA coffee for some acai bowls and accompanying beverages. Lunch at Beale’s Texas BBQ located at Peter’s Landing on Sunset Beach, which opened during the pandemic and serves ribs, tips, brisket, and everything BBQ you can think of, or stay by the beach and step into Duke’s Huntington Beach, which pays homage to the father of international surfing and his reputation for

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hospitality.

Recommended off the menu here are the poke tacos, hula pies and a signature mai tai. Dine in Bluegold located inside Pacific City and presenting lovely views of the ocean.

The menu includes its famed milk rolls, deluxe shellfish tower, cioppino and caldo, paella and pizzas, and many more menu options any time of year. And when you’d like to spend more time in nature then the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is a great spot for a walk, run or jog, where you can sight many local bird and plant species and enjoy the fresh morning air. Set aside a good half day or more to immerse yourself in the beauty of the area’s natural public lands and enjoy the many diverse habitats you will find along the path here. m Delectable delights at Watertable restaurant.

(Images by Ruksana Hussain)

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plan a vacation

5 Unique Workation Spots in Lithuania Workations are seeing increased popularity as many people want to change their surroundings, restore their well-being, and regain work-life balance since the pandemic was first announced.

In fact, a research report states that 94% of employees express their desire for a workation this year. With the weather in Lithuania steadily getting warmer, both teams and lone digital nomads have many options for their next retreat from the office. This includes unique surroundings — whether in a 300-year-old monastery or a treehouse with stunning views of undisturbed nature. Find inspiration in the following five Lithuanian sites…

Treehouse offers immersion into nature for increased focus Interested in the wilderness of Lithuania’s undisturbed forests? Find a comfortable office nestled among treetops. The “Varena Treehouse” complex, which lies just an hour away from the capital Vilnius, is a true oasis of peace. The minimalist wooden interiors of the treehouses offer solo travelers and couples a cozy retreat from the bustle of city life. The rural surroundings help focus on tasks with the utmost comfort while views of the forest keep stress at bay for anyone visiting the area.

An agrarian escape into nature for the whole team Tucked away in the village of Radiškis, found in the west of Lithuania, is a haven for people seeking to escape the city and gain a fresh perspective. The “Farmers Circle” community offers an office in nature, as the farm is well equipped to welcome large teams of up to 45 for overnight or a short-term visit in their conference hall fit for 200 people. Beyond clean workspaces that allow visitors to remain productive, the farm expresses its sustainable philosophy through various farm activities.

Right: Varena Treehouse

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Pažaislis Monastery (Andrius Aleksandravičius)

Remote work in an iconic baroque monastery Only a few hundred hotels are housed in existing monasteries across the world, and one of them can be found near Kaunas, Lithuania’s second-largest city. As monasteries have a unique spiritual quality and provide a peaceful environment that encourages focus, boost your creativity, and reconnect in this unique environment. Consider the Pažaislis Monastery hospitality complex “Monte Pacis.”

Classic Baroque-style rooms are available at the hotel while the monastery’s guest house has a restaurant that offers Baroque food samplings.

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Remaining productive in a world-class spa The “Tech Spa” is found in Lithuania’s historic wellness resort, Druskininkai, teeming with natural mineral water springs and natural mud, which has been used for therapeutic purposes for centuries. With all the amenities of an office — including all the tea and coffee you need — it offers travelers the opportunity to regain work-life balance. Exchange your usual workplace for stimulating and brightly decorated coworking living places.

Looking to the seaside for recharging emotional batteries Working in Klaipėda, Lithuania’s largest seaside city and the country’s port town, has the benefit of being close to the sea, which may explain why it is known as the “teleworking capital.” Escaping to the beach after a hard day’s work to breathe in the invigorating sea air serves as a pleasant change of scenery. “Light House Coworking and Coliving”, just minutes from the sea, is one of Lithuania’s most sophisticated coworking spaces, with integrated lodging in the country’s first-ever sleeping capsules or lofts, micro-offices, meditation, and conference rooms.

Now, which one will you choose? m

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Right: Lighthouse Coworking space in Klaipėda (D.Vaičiulis)

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international destination

Stunning Stockholm

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international destination

Among the many gems of Scandinavia is Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, comprising 14 islands and more than 50 bridges on an extensive Baltic Sea archipelago. Within the city, public transportation is found in plenty, and walking and biking are encouraged.

The waterways are used to their full potential too. And if you do get lost finding your way around then seeking directions isn’t difficult as English is widely spoken here.

To get the lay of the land, opting for a Hop-on Hopoff bus tour or a water tour are recommended around the main attraction areas. Also consider getting a Stockholm Pass during your visit which provides a discounted rate and easy access to many of the commonly visited venues.

Positively treat yourself to fika—coffee and pastry— found almost everywhere in the city for just a few euros.

The sheer variety of pastries available are a reason to visit again! Eating on the go is common so grab a small Stockholm’s many museums are one way to see the city.

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At Skansen outdoor museum, get to know local animal species.

sandwich for a quick light bite as you head from one spot to the other. But if it’s an authentic dinner experience you want then Aifur Krog and Bar is the spot, located in Gamla Stan (old town).

The interiors of the restaurant are decorated to resemble an old Viking castle with throws all around. Dining is at a communal table with white chairs and benches. Local delicacies such as mead (sweet wine) and lingonberries are served here as well as meat trays featuring reindeer, deer, moose, and other favored local stars. There are quite a few Michelin star restaurants here though so you will be spoilt for choice.

In fact, take your time walking around Gamla Stan. While the cobblestone paths have their own charm, the architecture sure adds its own dose of awe. Simply strolling around the cafes and shops is a leisurely activity to indulge in. The many different neighborhoods, you will soon realize, each have their own character. Try to venture out beyond the capital should your itinerary allow for a few days to see other parts of the country.

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international destination The Skansen Open Air Museum on the island is a huge draw for families. The oldest open-air museum in the world, it is a large park with attractions from replicas of homes to a zoo to live performances. You could easily spend a few hours here so give yourself a day if you have the luxury of time while in the city. A boat tour is a good option to hear the city’s history while enjoying the waters of Lake Malarin and the Baltic Sea. The National Museum affords a closer look at the history and heritage of the country. The Vasa Museum houses the glorious Vasa battleship, the pride of the Swedish imperial fleet. Opera Kallaren and the National Theater are a great option for a night out.

One aspect that will catch your eye is the architecture. From the Stockholm Library and the Stockholm Palace to the Royal Swedish Opera building and Avicii Arena, the different styles call your attention. When it comes to museums, the Museum

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Good weather days are plenty for outdoor activities in Stockholm.

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Indulge in a drink and a bite as you wander around the city.

of Modern Art, Museum of Photography, Nobel Museum, and Stockholm City Museum are a few options. For music lovers, a visit to the ABBA Museum is a must. Given the thriving art scene here, there are few galleries you can pop in and out of too as you explore the area.

If you are planning your visit to coincide with some of the annual events hosted in Stockholm then a few to have on your radar include the jazz, culture, Pride, water, and film festivals. Of course, any time of the year is a good time to visit! m

(Images by Ruksana Hussain)

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liquid inspiration

Serbian Plum Brandy Yebiga Rakija A premium, traditional Serbian fruit brandy crafted with centuries of Balkan distilling prowess at heart, honoring passed-down knowledge, the bounty of the land, the plum juice from the harvest and the culture of the Serbian people, Yebiga Rakija is the first quality rakija brought to the United States by founder and importer Bill Gould, who on his many tours in the Balkans, fell in love with the spirit and realized rakija was overwhelmingly unknown in the U.S. market. Introduced in 2019 as one of the first, old-world, premium handcrafted rakija brands to ever be exported out of the Balkans, Yebiga is one of those spirits that not many people know about but that has shaped the culture of a whole part of the world for the past 800 years. The philosophy of the company is to honor and respect the old-world tradition of producing the iconic, traditional fruit brandy of the region so the brand’s labels retain Serbian-Croatian names, a sense of humor and a stalwart refusal to compromise on quality and ingredients. Two rakijas are available in the U.S market right now: PRVA – Yebiga’s first expression to come stateside is a style that favors the Serbian methods of starting with fresh, ripe plums domestic to the region, hand-plucked and barrel-aged for 18 months.

BELA – Yebiga’s youngest expression, this rakija is lighter, free of color and finished in stainless steel. Smooth, delicious, and rustic, perfect for everyday occasions and cocktail experimentation.

Both can be used in your cocktail recipes.

Here are a few ideas to get you started!

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ALTA VOCE (Balkan Fruit Cup) 1.5 oz. Rakija Prva ½ oz. Cointreau ¼ oz. lemon juice Build over ice.

Top with ginger beer and stir.

Use a wine glass.

Garnish with cucumber slice, lemon wheel, mixed berries, mint.

SERBIAN BREAKFAST (B’fast Martini) 1.5 oz. Rakija Prva ½ oz. Luxardo maraschino ¾ oz. lemon juice 1 bar spoon of cherry marmalade Shake hard and fine strain.

Pour in glass and garnish with three skewered brandied cherries.

(Images courtesy of Yebiga Rakija)

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Health on the go

enjoy Bike Travel with Adventure Cycling Tours Adventure Cycling Association is bringing back its Family Adventure tours in summer 2022, with two departures of the new Cape Cod Family Adventure and one departure of the Idaho Trails Family Adventure. Family Adventure tours are designed to help introduce parents and their children to the transformative power of bike travel with the support of tour leaders, catered meals, accommodations, luggage transport, and more. On Adventure Cycling’s Family Adventure tours, children must be accompanied by adults, and adults must be accompanied by children – parents, aunts and uncles, grandparents, and groups of friends with their children are all welcome. Children must be between the ages of 8 and 17 years old at the time of the tour.

Highlights include: Cape Cod Family Adventure: Experience four actionpacked days while exploring beautiful Cape Cod, Massachusetts, from Provincetown, at its northern tip, to Upper Mill Pond, near Brewster. At the core of the trip is nearly 100 miles of great cycling, including traffic-free paved trails such as the Cape Cod Rail Trail and the Head of the Meadow Trail. Participants can take some time off the bike to go swimming and hiking and try stand-up paddle boarding.

Idaho Trails Family Adventure: On this six-day tour, ride through the gentle terrain and gorgeous scenery of the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes as it follows an abandoned Union Pacific Railroad right-of-way past lakes between the Silver Valley, near the Montana border, and Plummer, not far from the Washington border. Also spend a day on the Route of the Hiawatha, originating in Montana and crossing the state line into Idaho in the middle of the 1.7-mile-long Taft Tunnel.

Adventure Cycling Association inspires, empowers, and connects people to travel by bike. It is the largest cycling membership organization in North America with more than 50,000 members. The organization has produced over 50,000 miles of meticulously mapped bicycle routes for North America, organizes more than 100 tours annually, and publishes bike travel information including Adventure Cyclist magazine. Adventure Cycling Association has also provided dedicated staff support to the U.S. Bicycle Route System since 2005, including research support, meeting coordination and technical guidance for states developing routes. m

(Image courtesy of Adventure Cycling Association)

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Use Tiqets for Thousands of Attractions Worldwide

Tiqets is a leading global ticketing platform connecting millions of people to thousands of museums and attractions around the world. It makes culture more accessible by helping people easily discover, buy and access instant digital tickets to thousands of attractions worldwide with just a few clicks. Tiqets also offers skipthe-line ticket options, ability to store tickets in the app and access when offline, traveler reviews, explore things to do nearby, 24/7 customer support, services in 13 different languages and accepts a variety of currencies.

App and online users can find a selection of more than 4,500 products in 63 countries.

Founded in 2014 by four innovative Dutch entrepreneurs, the concept of Tiqets evolved from an innovative idea to use phones to purchase tickets to popular attractions last minute without waiting in long lines. Within its first five years, it reached several major milestones including 1 million app downloads and 10 million tickets sold across the globe. That same year, in (Image courtesy of Tiqets)

2019, Tiqets received $60 million in Series C funding led

by Airbnb.

Tiqets has continued to expand its offerings since then.

Last year, the company was announced as the exclusive ticketing partner of the San Francisco Travel Association.

Tiqets also announced a new integration with App Maps to become the only ticketing partner to offer a simple two-tap process to purchase tickets directly from Apple Maps, effectively making it easier for people to experience local hidden gems as well as nearby museums and attractions. In 2022, it partnered with Official, a next-gen relationship app, to allow couples to access and book dates to top museums and attractions when using the relationship app.

The company is headquartered in Amsterdam and now employs 200+ people worldwide, including in Amsterdam (HQ) as well as Seattle, Las Vegas, Orlando, Philadelphia, London, Copenhagen, Paris, Barcelona, Rome, Vienna, Bangkok, Tokyo and Osaka. m

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shelf esteem

Soundings: Journeys in the Company of Whales In this memoir of motherhood, love, and resilience, a woman and her toddler son follow the grey whale migration from Mexico to northernmost Alaska.

With this striking blend of nature writing, whale science, and memoir, Doreen Cunningham interweaves two stories: tracking the extraordinary northward migration of the grey whales with a mischievous toddler in tow and living with an Iñupiaq family in Alaska seven years earlier. Throughout the journey, she explores the stories of the whales and their young calves—their history, their habits, and their attempts to survive the changes humans have brought to the ocean.

Cunningham’s voice is powerful: sharp, profound, sensitive, and unflinching. A story of courage and resilience, Soundings is about the migrating whales and all we can learn from them as they mother, adapt, and endure, their lives interrupted and threatened by global warming. It is also a riveting journey onto the Arctic Sea ice and into the changing world of Indigenous whale hunters, where Cunningham becomes immersed in the ancient values of the Iñupiaq whale hunt and falls in love. For this is her story, too—a fierce, feminist tale, touching on her childhood and her time living in a Women’s Refuge with her baby, becoming a mother, just like the whales.

Cunningham is an Irish-British writer born in Wales. After studying engineering, she worked briefly in climate-related research at the Natural Environment Research Council and in storm modeling at Newcastle University before turning to journalism, and then worked for the BBC World Service variously as an international news presenter, reporter, and editor for about 20 years. m

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(Image provided by publisher)

mar/apr 2022

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© Traveler and Tourist mar -apr 2022