Welcome to Fashion over 50 today. I’ve ordered a few things this spring and today I’ve got a Walmart find to share with you. I’ve been seeing a lot of bloggers sharing Walmart fashion and really haven’t bought much from Walmart, but I think they have really stepped up their game in the fashion department. This maxi skirt is a fun one, a happy bright chartreuse that I thought would be a fun addition for summer.

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Kauai, Hawaii

The Hawaiian island of Kauai is the perfect place for active travelers looking to escape to a tropical paradise. Here are some of the best things to do in Kauai during your visit!

Not as touristy as Oahu and much smaller than The Big Island — Kauai is actually one of the oldest islands in the Hawaiian chain.

The lush wet landscapes and unique wildlife on Kauai has earned it the nickname “The Garden Isle”.

You can explore dense jungles with rare orchids and other flowers. Trek along steep cliffs for breathtaking views. Then sip Mai-tais and snack on the best poke bowl you’ve ever had while watching monk seals sunbathing!

If you’re planning to visit Hawaii soon, I wanted to recommend a few fun and unusual things to do on Kauai, no matter what time of year you’re there.

Kauai Hawaii Highlights Map

Best Things To Do On Kauai

1. Kayak The Wailua River

Kauai’s Wailua River weaves 20 miles through the lush Wailua River Valley. Paddle your way into the center of the island, passing by waterfalls and ruins of old Hawaiian temples, called heiau, along the way.

Many tour operators run through here, but you can also rent a kayak, SUP, or outrigger canoe from your resort or Airbnb host for a self-guided excursion, which is what I did.

If you aren’t up for a trip on the river itself, you can also get a great view overlooking a dramatic bend in the river from the Wailua River Overlook.

2. Waimea Canyon (Hawaii’s Grand Canyon)

Drive to Kauai’s west side for some great hiking and photo opportunities through beautiful Waimea Canyon, nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. This unique red and green volcanic formation is 10 miles long, 1 mile wide, and 3,500 feet deep.

High elevations mean the temperature changes noticeably from the bottom as you head to the top. So bring a rain jacket or windbreaker. Wear hiking boots with lots of traction to handle the rocky, muddy terrain.

Even if you aren’t a hiker, driving along the canyon walls and stopping at lookout spots is super fun. Keep in mind that parking at popular areas can fill up fast, so try to arrive early, before 9 AM.

3. Explore The Nāpali Coast

A must on your Kauai travel itinerary is to see the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park, with one of the most recognizable coastlines in the world. Defined by spectacular green mountains that rise dramatically from the ocean.

There are a few ways to enjoy this coastline: by land, sea, or air.

The Kalalau Trail

Advanced hikers with their own gear can attempt an 11 mile hiking adventure along the famous Kalalau Trail, which involves some overnight camping. The trek can get intense and requires a special permit at least a day in advance through the Hawaiian Park’s website.

Sail The Coastline

Get an up close view of the Nāpali coast on a sailing catamaran boat. Dolphins sometimes play alongside the catamaran, and most boats offer snorkeling too. Keep an eye out for humpback whales breaching during peak whale watching season, December through April. A great way to see the coastline!

Napali Helicopter Tour

Finally, although pricey, a Kauai helicopter tour gives you a 360 bird’s-eye view of the lush greenery and cascading waterfalls of Na Pali. For the adventurous, they even offer open-door flights! This is what we did — it was amazing.

4. Cool Off With Hawaiian Shave Ice

No visit to Kauai is complete without a stop at the famous Kalalea Juice Hale for some classic Hawaiian Shave Ice. You can also pick up all kinds of fresh organic juices, or a tasty Acai Bowl to get recharged for the rest of your day.

Hale (pronounced HA-leh,) means house, and this bright orange building sits right under Kalalea Mountain (aka King Kong Mountain). Shave ice is a staple dessert in Hawaii, with little shacks selling the tasty treat in every town. Not to be confused with a snow-cone, which is crushed ice (rather than shaved).

5. Hiking In Kokee State Park

After visiting Waimea Canyon, keep driving North and you’ll end up in Kokee State Park. This is basically the backside of the Na Pali, where you can look down on the coast from high in the mountains.

Kokee has a bunch of cool hiking trails and lookout points to explore. Some notable ones include the popular Kalalau Valley Lookout, Kalepa Ridge Trail, Puu O Kila Lookout, plus there are campsites in the park too.

Because parts of the park sit above 4000 feet, it’s much cooler than other parts of the island, and gets a lot of rain too. So make sure to bring a rain jacket!

6. Meditate At Kauai’s Hindu Temple

Between the jagged peaks, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife, a visit to Kauai feels a bit like a spiritual experience in and of itself. Which makes the Kauai Hindu Temple a perfect addition to this tropical paradise.

The hand sculpted, white granite Iraivan temple overlooks the banks of the Wailua River before a backdrop of the Kapa Mountains. About 35-40 minutes from Kukui‘ula, people from all walks of life come to admire the peaceful scenery and impressive architecture.

The temple features a rare 700-pound quartz crystal and impressive granite sculpture of the six-faced deity, Lord Shanmuga, standing in front of a giant banyan tree. The monastery asks that guests dress modestly by wearing loose fitting attire and covering legs and arms.

7. Swim At Tunnels Beach

Probably my favorite beach on Kauai, Tunnels Beach (Makua in Hawaiian) on the North Shore is a wonderful place to go snorkeling or scuba diving. It has a very large and shallow reef full of colorful fish.

However the real highlight at Tunnels is the very dramatic jagged green mountains in the background. If you want that perfect Hawaiian postcard photo for Instagram, this is the place to get it!

The parking sucks though, and spots fill up quickly, so get there early or you’ll have to park half-a-mile away. Waves get big and rough here in the winter, so the snorkeling gets more dangerous (but it’s great if you’re a pro surfer).

8. Visit Famous Jurassic Park Falls

Movie fans will recognize Kauai from the iconic scene of Jurassic Park, when the helicopter lands at the base of a cascading waterfall. You can recreate the cinematic experience by taking a chopper tour to Manawaiopuna Falls.

Some special helicopter tours will even land here and let you walk around, but because it’s located in a very remote part of Kauai’s Hanapēpē Valley, the only way to see this dramatic waterfall is via helicopter.

9. Eat A Hawaiian Poke Bowl

Poke is my favorite Hawaiian food, and I even learned how to make fresh ahi-tuna poke with a professional chef once. So whenever I visit Hawaii, I can’t resist a chance to eat plenty of this diced raw fish Hawaiian cuisine.

I usually go for the traditional style made with sashimi grade ahi tuna, sweet onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, chopped macadamia nuts, and scallions. It’s sooooo good! You can find it at many restuarants and some dedicated food trucks on Kauai.

I suggest heading to some of the local markets, like in The Ishihara Market in Waimea, which some consider the best poke joint on the island. Try a mix of fish flavored with shoyu, citrus, and spicy mayo. You can even find quality poke at the island’s grocery stores too.

10. Surfing At Hanalei Bay

Beautiful mountains overlook coconut palms and a sparking surf at Hanalei Bay. This laid back, surfer town is known for its art galleries, beaches, great food, and live music venues.

The crescent shaped beach inspired the 1960’s folk song Puff the Magic Dragon, based on the legendary sleeping dragon in the mountains that protects the bay. If you plan to hit the waves, the surf can get intense, so make sure to check advisories.

Cool off on a hot day at the Aloha Juice Bar Hanalei with a Reefer Smoothie made of blended strawberry, mango, banana, and guava. At night, head over to Tahiti Nui to dine on Tahitian cuisine, listen to nightly live music, and sip mai tais.

While in the area, also check out Hanalei Valley Lookout in Princeville to admire the green taro fields, one of the most photographed areas on the island.

11. Kīlauea Point Lighthouse

Just a 20 minute drive from Hanalei Bay sits Kilauea, a tiny historic town on the island’s northeastern shore. Escape from the crowds for snorkeling, swimming, and windsurfing at exclusive beaches like Kauapea (Secret’s Beach), Anini Beach, or Ka‘aka‘aniu (Larsen’s Beach) in Kīlauea.

The town grew up around a sugar plantation from the late 1800s and attracted migrant workers from countries from Portugal to Japan. Experience the cultural heritage at the Kong Lung Historic Market Center which hosts uniquely local art exhibitions, restaurants, and craft vendors.

You’ll also spot the 52-foot Daniel K. Inouye Kīlauea Point Lighthouse. Built in 1913, the lighthouse has become a part of the Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for the island’s many rare bird species.

12. Watch A Hula Dance Performance

For thousands of years, hula dance has been a part of Hawaiian culture. The dance tells the history of Hawaiian people through movement, often with slow, sentimental music or lively beats.

Rumor has it that the dance may originate from Kauai, and you can catch an authentic show during a visit. Dancers perform at many of the resorts. But for a truly authentic experience, visit Keahualaka Heiau, an area dedicated to Laka, the goddess of hula, just around the corner from the Kalalau trailhead.

Another popular spot to watch a hula performance is the Grand Hyatt Resort Kauai if you happen to be staying there.

13. Sunbathe At Poipu Beach

Listed as the Travel Channel’s Top 10 Beaches In The World, Poipu Beach sits on the island’s south side. Nicknamed “the sunny side of paradise”, this is a haven for aquatic wildlife like seals, whales, dolphins, and giant sea turtles.

On an island with mostly rocky beaches, Poipu Beach welcomes sunbathers with its sandy shores. Poipu actually consists of two beaches, split in the middle by a narrow sand bar. To the left: calm, shallow waters offer a spot ideal for families with kids. Small swells to the right side invite body boarders to hit the waves.

The west facing beaches give perfect views of the sunset over the water. Rent a surfboard or snorkel for the day. You might even catch one of the beach natives: a Hawaiian monk seal.

13. Cliff Jumping At Shipwreck’s Beach

Not far from Poipu, make sure to stop by Shipwreck’s Beach located next to The Grand Hyatt Kauai. This rocky beach earned its name after an old wooden ship sank off the coast many years ago. It’s also access the start of the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail, a hiking route that explores the coastline.

The beach itself is full of local surfers, which can be fun to watch if you don’t surf. There’s also a large 40 foot cliff nearby that’s used for cliff jumping. However it’s not a great spot for beginners, as the waves can get rough and the swim back to shore after jumping is pretty long. Be very careful!

14. Visit Queen’s Bath

On Kauai’s north shore in Princeville sits the Queen’s Bath, a rocky tide pool surrounded by black lava rock. The hereditary rulers of Hawaii, called ali’i, would come to these sacred waters to bathe.

If you plan to visit, be very careful: the turbulent tide pools and strong waves make this a dangerous place for swimming. Rouge waves have been known to knock people off the rocks too — there’s a sign listing all the drownings. Bring proper footwear and keep your guard up.

15. Sample The Food Trucks

The food truck scene is a must during a visit to Kauai to enjoy the local cuisine, at a bargain. You can try them all over the island, but the charming town of Kapaa stands out as one the best spots to feast on food trucks.

Like Nixtamal Kauai, a Kapaa favorite serving Mexican street food and seafood. Known for their tamales served with spicy habanero salsa, the chicken tamale contains shredded machaca marinated chicken with roasted green chile.

Or try the refreshing Shave Ice Tege Tege serving hand cranked shaved ice mixed with condensed milk and local mango, dragon fruit, and passion fruit.

16. Hanapepe’s Historic Art Walk

Take a break from the sunshine with an artistic evening in Hanapepe. On Friday nights, the historic town hosts an art night featuring vendors, live music, and, of course, more food!

Taste one of OnoPop’s Ulu (breadfruit) popsicles, a non-dairy vanilla flavored ice treat. For something heartier, head to Midnight Bear Breads Bakery and Cafe for your choice of homemade pizzas, breads, and pastries, like the sweet, nutty macadamia nut cinnamon swirl roll.

For another food truck, head to Porky’s Kauai, voted one of the best local restaurants. Keeping it simple, the truck serves just 3 dishes: tangy, sweet Kalua pork pineapple sausage, the beef frank and pulled pork bun, and Hawaiian style pulled pork grilled cheese sandwich.

17. Bike The Koloa Heritage Trail

Admire lava cliffs dating back 5 million years along the Kola Heritage Trail. Located in the historic town of Koloa, the pathway takes you past 14 different stops and monuments including sugar and pineapple plantations dating back to the mid 1800s.

There’s also the Spouting Horn blowhole—or puhi, as the locals call it. More stops include Pu’uwanawana Volcanic Cone, and Harpa Road, an emergency route dating back to World War II.

For some Hawai’in fusion food, stop by Kiawe Roots, a family owned restaurant serving dishes like Hawaiian jerk pork ribs with spiced Kauai honey barbecue sauce.

18. Visit Kauai’s Moir Gardens

Also one of the stops on Kola Heritage Trail, make sure to swing by Moir Gardens located on the grounds of the Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation. Open daily with free entry.

These rich gardens are full of exotic succulents, cacti, bromeliads, orchids, and water lilies which grow on the 35-acre historic estate. While much of Kauai gets battered with rain each year, Poipu is a dry part of the island. So most of the plants here thrive in dry conditions.

19. Check Out Alekoko Fishpond

The Hawaiian Islands have passed on legends of ghostly stories for generations. So you don’t want to miss your chance to see some of the local mythological landmarks, like Alekoko Fishpond.

According to legend, mischievous little people called the Menehune inhabit the island. These mythical creatures allegedly build the fishpond in one night by lining up over 25 miles and passing lava stones hand to hand!

True or not, this man-made pond has been used for fishing for 1,000 years, and it’s a cool example of ancient Hawaiian aquaculture. Today, you can see the Fishpond from a viewing platform near the road to Huleia National Wildlife Refuge, home to many endangered bird species.

20. See The “Wettest Spot On Earth”

Often called the wettest spot on earth, Mount Waialeale averages 450 inches of rainfall annually. In 1982, 666 inches of rain were recorded on the peak, establishing an official record, which explains why the locals call it Wai’ale’ale, meaning “overflowing water”.

Clouds often enshroud the 5,000 foot mountain, and many legends surround this mystical peak. Although it seems impossible to climb, stone ruins at the 5,000 foot high summit, Kawaikini Peak, suggest that ancient inhabitants would climb to the top to give offerings.

Tourists can view the dormant shield volcano by helicopter or explore the two trails on the eastern side of Waialeale.

21. Wailua Falls

Further up the Wailua River mentioned earlier is a large waterfall called Wailua Falls. This is probably the most popular waterfall on Kauai, due to its easy access right next to a road. No hiking required!

This beautiful 80 foot tall double waterfall is located in Eastern Kauai behind the Kalepa Mountain Forest Reserve in Hanamā‘ulu. Legends tell of Hawaiian royalty who used to test their endurance by jumping from the top of the falls into the shallow pool below, and some didn’t survive.

There’s an unofficial (illegal) trail that winds down to the base of the falls from the road, however it is extremely slippery and steep. Attempt it at your own risk.

22. Beachfront Camping At Polihale Park

Hawaii draws tourists from all over the world looking to reconnect with the natural beauty of this tropical paradise. Those who love the outdoors can’t pass on a trip to Polihale State Park.

Locals spend weekends here, often riding ATVs along the 2 mile stretch of beach. Set up your tent along the beach to enjoy saffron and crimson sunsets before sleeping underneath the stars. Added bonus: alcohol and campfires are permitted.

The strong current means swimmers should take caution. But the southwestern side has a cove, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The 5-mile road getting here is rough, and only suitable for 4X4 vehicles.

23. Kauapea Beach (AKA Secret Beach)

Secrets is a massive beach on the North Shore of Kauai near the town of Kilauea. The beach is located at the bottom of steep cliffs, and isn’t the easiest place to access. There’s a well-used trail, but it’s often muddy and tricky to get down.

But the hike down is worth it, because even if there’s 100 people on the beach, it’s so massive that you can find a quiet place all to yourself if you just keep walking. If you walk for long enough, you’ll eventually stumble onto a cliff-side waterfall and a “clothing optional” area of the beach.

24. Grand Hyatt Resort Pools

Even if you don’t stay overnight at Kauai’s beautiful Grand Hyatt Resort, it’s still possible to visit their amazing tropical pools, lazy river, and private beach with a special Day Pass. A wonderful place to relax in the sun.

The area behind the resort is an oasis of flower gardens, freshwater pools, waterfalls, shaded cabanas, a salt water lagoon, multiple jacuzzis, watersides, and even a lazy river! You can easily waste hours here, ordering fancy drinks and taking dips in the pools.

25. Wai’oli Hui’ia Church

Waioli Church in Hanalei stands out from many other churches I’ve visited around the world. Founded by protestant missionaries in 1912, the green building blends in perfectly with the tropical Kauai mountains in the background.

It’s a popular stop for photos if you’re driving around the island. Feel free to go inside and have a look around if it’s open.

26. Kauai’s Glass Beach & Cemetery

This unique beach is located in the town of Eleele, in an industrial part of the island. Instead of regular sand, this beach is covered in small pieces of multicolored sea glass! Sea lions also like to hang out here, so you may catch a glimpse of them too.

The beach isn’t big, and it’s not a nice place for sunbathing (big ugly oil tanks behind it), but if you’re already in the area, it can be an interesting stop for a photo. Make sure to check out the nearby cemetery too, with old red headstones carved in Japanese writing.

27. Visit Mark Zuckerberg’s Beach

Sick of Facebook invading your privacy and selling your personal data? Why not give Zuck a taste of his own medicine, and invade HIS privacy by visiting the public beach under his 700-acre estate on Kauai!

Pila’a Beach is very difficult to get to, because it’s surrounded by Zuckerberg’s private land, however if you’re up for a challenge, it’s possible. There’s a hidden access road that leads to a cliff side, which if you climb down, you can then walk along a rocky shoreline for about 1200 feet to reach the beach.

Sorry Zuck. It’s totally legal! Maybe you should have read the island’s complete terms of service before you bought land on Kauai… all beaches are public.

28. Maliuhi Tree Tunnel

On the south shore of Kauai there’s a long road lined with green eucalyptus trees. It’s called the Maliuhi Tree Tunnel, and it’s pretty cool to drive through. The trees cover about a mile of highway 520 as you drive to Poʻipū.

The tree tunnel was planted back in 1911 as a gift to the community from Walter McBryde, a rich and powerful pinapple baron. At one point it was 3 times longer than it is now.

29. Wild Chicken Spotting

On my first visit to Kauai, I was struck with the island’s wild chicken population. There are thousands of feral chickens roaming around EVERYWHERE. You’ll find them in front yards, crossing roads, parking lots, etc.

As is the case for many islands, once a non-native species gets brought over, sometimes it can lead to unintended consequences. Other Hawaiian islands have exploding populations of wild pigs and cattle — Kauai has chickens.

Between the original Polynesians, the voyages of Captain Cook, and Filipinos working on sugar cane plantations who kept birds for cockfighting, the island’s chicken population grew. A series of hurricanes in the 80’s set them all free!

30. Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail

The scenic cliff-side hike of Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail starts from Shipwreck Beach and winds its way along the undeveloped coast of the South Shore. The trail is not too difficult, but very exposed to the elements.

While hiking this rugged part of Kauai, you’ll encounter sand dunes, caves, ancient ruins, and eventually you’ll reach Mahaulepu Beach, a remote stretch of sand that doesn’t see many visitors. While it’s not a great beach for swimming, Humpback whales and sea turtles can often be spotted around here.

Transportation Around Kauai

Rental Car

The best site to book your car is with Discover Cars. They search both local and international car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car and drive on Kauai.

Renting a car offers the best flexibility to explore remote spots on the island. Kauai has two major highways, Kaumualii and Kuhio. It can take an hour to get to the other side of the island.

Bus

The Kauai public bus system runs from Kekaha to Hanalei. A ride costs $2 per trip. You can also purchase a one day pass ($4) or monthly pass ($45). Although inexpensive, the bus system is more for locals going to work, and they don’t stop at many tourist attractions.

Taxi

Although you will find taxis near the Lihue Airport, you won’t likely see many throughout the island. That said, the island has its local taxi service, although difficult to hail. LYFT and Uber also run on the island. You can also book shuttles or private tours. Fares start at $3 for the first tenth mile then becomes $0.30 cents for every tenth mile thereafter.

Where To Stay On Kauai

Accommodation on Kauai is expensive. There’s just no way around it. Kauai is a small island, so hotels can charge a premium. Here are suggestions for good places to stay during your trip to Kauai Hawaii…

Useful Kauai Travel Tips & Advice

• Bring a pair of hiking boots that you don’t mind getting dirty for some of the many rocky, muddy trails on the island.
• Known as the rainiest island in Hawaii, Kauai’s tropical climate means daytime showers. The weather is always changing from sunshine to rain, so pack an umbrella and windbreaker or light rain jacket.
• Car rentals are in high demand, particularly during peak tourist seasons in the winter and summer, so make sure to reserve your rental in advance.
• Kauai locals are pretty territorial, and don’t take kindly to tourists showing up on their private property or roads, so pay particular attention to signs and stay off other people’s land.

Enjoy This Post? Pin It!

Any questions about things to do in Kauai? Do you have other suggestions? Drop me a message in the comments below!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Summer is officially here in Georgia and the heat is back. We are so enjoying our back patio and porch area and are out there most every afternoon and evening. We’ve watched the sun go down so many nights and it’s been such a peaceful respite from the world. 

Enjoy these posts from my friends and I today for Style Showcase! 

The post Style Showcase 33 appeared first on Southern Hospitality.

Posted: 6/8/20 | June 8th, 2020

With a million things to do, a huge variety of delicious food, warm-hearted people, lots of hiking opportunities, and beautiful buildings and temples, Taiwan has it all.

Yet, despite that, it remains one of the most underrated — and undervisted — countries in Asia.

On the one hand, I like that it’s still off the radar because it means fewer crowds. You’ll never see too many people traveling around Taiwan. It’s, to use the cliche, a hidden gem you have (mostly) to yourself. There are no hordes of people trying to take their IG selfies.

On the other hand, it’s a shame people don’t make Taiwan a bigger travel priority because it’s so wonderful and has so much going for it. This is a country that deserves way more attention than it is given.

And, what’s great for budget travelers like us, is that Taiwan is also super affordable.

It’s on a level of cheapness similar to parts of Southeast Asia, with many meals costing only a few dollars. Even when I “splurged” on a meal like a high-end sushi omakase, I spent less than 1,200 NT$ ($40 USD). A meal (and too many beers) at an English style pub aimed at expats? Less than 360 NT$ ($12 USD).

Taiwan is a dream destination for those looking to get a lot of value for their money.

Today, I’m going to break down some typical costs in Taiwan, my suggested budgets, and ways to save.
 

Typical Costs

Taiwan is pretty cheap so, as long as you don’t eat at high-end restaurants or stay at upscale hotels, you won’t be hard-pressed to spend a lot of money. Here’s a list of typical costs in new Taiwan dollars (NT$):

• Noodle soup – 30-45 ($1-1.50 USD)
• Noodles – 40 ($1.35 USD)
• Rice – 85-100 ($2.85-3.35 USD)
• Lunch boxes – 100 ($3.35 USD)
• Sushi lunch – 300 – 450 ($10 – 15 USD)
• MosBurger (best fast food burger joint) – 165 ($5.50 USD)
• Museum entry – 30-100 ($1-3.35 USD)
• Metro ride – 30-65 ($1-2.15 USD)
• Taxi – 70 (plus 25 per kilometer) ($2.35 USD plus 0.84 per km)
• Intercity train ride – 375-850 ($12.55-$28.40 USD)
• High-speed rail (HSR) – 155-1,500 ($5.20-50.15 USD)
• Hostel dorm – 240-600 per night ($8-20 USD)
• Hostel private room – 1,050-1,350 per night ($35-45 USD)

How Much Did I Spend?

Over 13 days, I spent a total of 29,273 NT$ (2,252 NT$ per day). In USD, that’s $981 ($75 USD per day). Now, my notes were a bit less than fully detailed towards the end of my trips and I can’t find some receipts so I’m going to round this up to an even 2,375 NT$ ($80 USD) per day.

That’s actually a lot more than I thought I spent. I had to do the numbers twice but more on that in a second.Here’s how those costs broke down:

• Food – 8,597 NT$ ($289.20 USD)
• Accommodation – 13,351 NT$ ($449.12 USD)
• Tours/Museums – 1,410 NT$ ($47.43 USD)
• Transportation – 5,915 NT$ ($198.95 USD)

So why did I spend so much money in a country that I said just was “super cheap”? I mean $80 is way more than Southeast Asia levels. Well, it has more to do with me than travel in Taiwan:

First, I stayed in private rooms. At three to four times the cost of a dorm, that is going to add up really quickly. I don’t like dorms since I’m a light sleeper and, since I was traveling alone, I didn’t have anyone to split the cost of the room with.

Second, I took a lot of high-speed trains. Those tickets are 600-1,200 NT$ ($20-40 USD) a ride versus 150-300 NT$ ($5-10 USD) for the regular train. Since I had little time and a lot of ground to cover, that drove up my costs.

Third, I took a few private tours as I wanted a local guide for myself so I could ask a battery of questions about life in Taiwan. I enjoy doing that over group tours, especially when I am researching destinations for guides like I was during this visit.

And, finally, in an effort to eat as much as possible, I probably had 3-4 meals a day, including many high-end restaurants and Western food. That amount of food really shrank my wallet (but sadly not my waistline). I’m talking a Hobbit level of eating here:

Those four things drove up my daily average to levels your average traveler/backpacker wouldn’t hit in such a short time.

How Much Do YOU need?

So, with that said, how much do you need to travel around Taiwan? If you replicated my trip, I think 1,930-2,230 NT$ ($65-75 USD) would be enough. You wouldn’t want for anything on that budget and it would cover cheap private accommodation, high-speed trains, some tours, and a healthy amount of food and drinks. If you took a few slower trains or stuck to eating at food markets (avoiding high-end sushi restaurants like me), you could get by closer to 1,785 NT$ ($60 USD) per day.

If you’re on a backpacker budget, you need around 890-1,040 NT$ ($30-35 USD) a day. A dorm room will cost you around 300 NT$ ($10 USD), meals are only 90-150 NT$ ($3-5 USD) each, and beer is pretty cheap. Taking regular (slower) trains would save a few more dollars a day.

In short, whether you’re a backpacker or just a regular budget traveler, you’re never going to spend a huge amount here. Outside accommodation and high-end food, everything in the country is super cheap.
 

How to Save Money in Taiwan

If you’re looking to spend even less money and get some good deals, here are things that can lower your costs even more:

1. Skip the High-Speed Rails (HSR)
The high-speed trains in Taiwan are super convenient (though they only go down the west side of the island): they depart every 15 minutes and the journey between Taipei and Kaohsiung (the most southern point) only takes 1 hour and 50 minutes.

However, they are also very expensive: a ticket from Taipei to Kaohsiung costs around 1,500 NT$ ($51 USD). On the other hand, the “local” trains are half the price at just 845 NT$ ($28 USD) (likewise, it’s just 539-739 NT$ ($18-25 USD) from Taipei to Tainan and around 375 NT$ ($12.50 USD) from Taipei to Taichung).

Plus, the HSR line doesn’t pass through city centers, so you’ll either need to take a bus or train from the HSR station, costing more time and money.

So, if you want to save money and aren’t in a rush, skip the HSR trains.

2. Stay in Hostels
In Taipei, hostel dorms can be found for 550-700 NT$ ($18.50-23.50 USD) per night for 6-10-bed rooms. Private rooms in hostels can be had for 1,600-2,200 NT$ ($54-74 USD) per night.

Also, skip hostel private rooms. A basic two-star hotel will cost 1,200-1,500 NT$ ($40-50 USD), making it a better budget choice if you want privacy.

3. Eat at the Food Markets
The food in Taiwan is world-class. I didn’t appreciate it much when I lived there back in 2010, but now I realize just how diverse, tasty, and healthy the food is. Every town is littered with day and night markets. If you want to save money on food (and it’s very easy to do that here), eating the local food at these markets is the best way to eat on a budget. You’ll find most meals cost around 30-80 NT$ ($1-2.75 USD).

And, even if you prefer a sit-down restaurant, you’re looking at 120-150 NT$ ($4-5 USD) for a meal at a place serving Taiwanese cuisine.

You never need to spend more than 400 NT$ ($15 USD) per day here.

Eat local = save big!

4. Avoid Western Food
I mean you didn’t come all this way to eat a bad version of the food you can get back home, right? You can find every Western dish your heart desires in Taiwan and most of these meals will cost about 300 NT$ ($10 USD). But, frankly, skip Western food. I never found anything that great and Taiwanese cuisine is way more delicious and filled with such variety that you’re not going to get tired of “eating the same thing” over and over again.

5. Take Free Walking Tours
One of the first things I do when I arrive in a new destination is take a free walking tour. They give you the lay of the land, show you the main highlights of the city, and provide you with a local guide who can answer your questions.

Like It Formosa is the best walking-tour company in Taiwan, offering tours in Taipei, Jiufen, Tainan, and Kaohsiung. Its tours have a cultural and historical focus, making them a great foundation for your visit.

And, if you’re in Taipei and want something more lively, Tour Me Away offers free tours as well as pub crawls and food tours starting at 600 NT$ ($20 USD) per person. They’re a good choice for backpackers looking to meet other travelers.

6. Take the Bus
Intercity coach buses are available to all major cities around Taiwan, including Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung. They are comfortable, modern, safe, and have air conditioning (too much, usually, so bring a sweater).

A bus from Taipei to Kaohsiung takes around five hours and costs 300-500 NT$ ($10-17 USD) depending on what day and time you depart.

The two main intercity bus companies are Ubus and Kuo-Kuang Bus. For fares and timetable information, visit taiwanbus.tw.

7. Take in the Free Attractions
There are plenty of free temples, shrines, museums, and parks around the country. There’s more than enough to fill your days. I never had a problem wandering around the cities and finding things to do that didn’t cost a penny. Your local accommodation or guide book or Google can tell you what to do.

8. Go Hiking
Spend your days hiking Taiwan’s many mountains and trails. Taiwan is filled with national parks. The country is so small that you are never far from any park, they are well connected to public transportation, and they are all free.

***

Taiwan is an incredibly affordable destination . To me, it’s on par with some destinations in Southeast Asia since the food was cheap and so many activities were free. You get a lot of value here. So, if you’re looking for an uncrowded and affordable place to visit, Taiwan is it.

The post How to See Taiwan on a Budget appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

If you’ve never tried making a charcuterie board, let me tell you it’s fun to put together. I’ve seen them all over the internet and some food bloggers really do a great job with them. They are fun and interesting and you can make them any way you choose, putting together so many food items that work together and look pretty too. This was my first time making a charcuterie board, but it sure won’t be the last. If you’re looking for a festive way to eat a meal outdoors, a charcuterie board is fun and filling. 

The post My First Charcuterie Board appeared first on Southern Hospitality.

A horse owner has praised the efforts of firefighters who worked for more than two and a half hours to rescue her mare when she became stuck on top of a muck heap.

Retired cob Gemma had inexplicably broken through electric fencing to scale the large and well-rotted pile of muck, which has been there since before owner Natalie Bucklar moved into her farm in Axmouth, Devon 18 months ago.

Natalie said she noticed the 15-year-old mare was missing early on Tuesday evening (2 June) and then “heard a whicker”. During a search, she found her cast round the other side of the heap.

“You might expect it of one of the others but not her, she normally minds her own business and is quiet as a mouse,” said Natalie. “I can only imagine that one of her friends bullied her as she had no food motivation to climb it.”

Natalie said that although the former riding school pony was cast when she was found she had managed to flip her over with the help of her partner. Gemma was still sunk too deep to escape, so they called the vet straight away.

After an assessment by vet Tessa Porter from Summerleaze Vets, it was decided the best option for Gemma would be to call Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service for help. They were able to send a specialist animal rescue unit from Exmouth as well as supporting crew.

“They were brilliant and sent a couple of local crew out to assess the situation, before a lot more crew arrived in stages,” Natalie said. “They called for a telehandler, as the best-case scenario was to lift her out as she was right in the middle of the heap.

“The telehandler was at the furthermost point of its reach getting to her — the next option would have been to drag her out, which none of us wanted to do.”

Natalie said she was not worried that Gemma was hurt as the surface was so soft but she was concerned about her suffering from heat and exhaustion.

“We didn’t know how long she’d been there before we found her and we were worried about the weight on her guts from being cast — there were some points when I thought that if she got out of it alive it would be a miracle,” she said.

After sedation and co-ordination between Tessa and the crew, Gemma was safely lifted from the muck heap, over a fence and into a paddock, where the lifting straps were swiftly removed using quick release so she did not panic.

“They really knew what they were doing and you couldn’t fault their professionalism,” Natalie said. “Tessa has also had previous experience in animal rescue and she was amazing — she made everything so much less worrying as she is so calm and controlled and great with the horses. I had every confidence in her.”

Much to Natalie’s relief, Gemma was up on her feet and grazing “within 10 seconds” of being freed.

“She was obviously dirty but there wasn’t a scratch on her,” she said. “I had kept it together while they were getting her out but when she started eating that was it, the tears started!

“We were so very, very lucky to have the fire service to get her out.”

A spokesman for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue said an appliance from Seaton and specialist rescue crews from Exmouth had been immediately mobilised by fire control after they received Natalie’s call.

Continues below…

Stand back, boys: rider and trusty wellies to the rescue as Jaguar stuck in flood

‘It’s fine, boys, us horsey girls will save the day’

Firefighters called to rescue foal with her head stuck in a wheelbarrow

The foal was unhurt and has since tried to climb into the barrow again

6 issues of Horse & Hound delivered to your door for £6

If you want to keep up with the latest from the equestrian world without leaving home, grab a H&H subscription

“On arrival, the incident commander confirmed that one horse was trapped in mud and while specialist rescue teams were en-route, the crews got to work to make the scene safe. A telehandler from service headquarters in Exeter was also sent to assist with the rescue,” the spokesman said.

“The horse was eventually rescued using specialist rescue equipment and a telehandler and was left in the care of its owner and the vet.”

We continue to publish Horse & Hound magazine weekly during the coronavirus pandemic, as well as keeping horseandhound.co.uk up to date with all the breaking news, features and more. Click here for info about magazine subscriptions (six issues for £6) and access to our premium H&H Plus content online.

Hi, friends! Hope your summer is off to a good start. It’s been a turmoil filled week in our country and I pray things settle down soon. It’s been one heck of a year and 2020 is almost half over. 

Today on Home Style Saturday, there is a lot of inspiration for you to browse today, so I hope you’ll check out all the posts. 

The post Home Style Saturday 193 appeared first on Southern Hospitality.

This is a Feature Friday repeat, but definitely worth sharing again, so I hope you enjoy this beautiful Vinings in Atlanta home of friend, Lisa. 

******************************************

I’m so excited to feature this beautiful home today!  You all know I went to Round Top, TX this year and it was hosted by the delightful Lisa, who is the shop owner of The Front Porch of Vinings, an adorable cottage home in downtown Vinings chock full of vintage goodies for the home, as well as clothing, shoes and jewelry.  Lisa is a very smart business woman and I’ve so enjoyed getting to know her.  When I went to her house, I was blown away and asked her if I could feature her house on my blog. She said yes and I was so happy!

The post Feature Friday: Lisa’s Vinings Home appeared first on Southern Hospitality.

Posted: 6/4/2020 | June 4th, 2020

Amsterdam is known as a party city, full of wild nights and all kinds of questionable debauchery. It’s a fun, eclectic, and party-focused destination popular with young backpackers looking to let loose.

But it’s a city with a lot more to offer too.

I’ve visited Amsterdam more times than I can count (it’s one of my favorite cities in the world) and I’m never disappointed. There are tons of museums, lots of chill cafes, and more nightlife than you can handle.

It’s a city with something to offer everyone. Even if you’re not looking to party the nights away you’ll still enjoy your visit.

To help you make the most of your trip, here are the best 32 things to see and do in Amsterdam:
 

1. Take a Free Walking Tour

Whenever I arrive in a new city I start off by taking a free walking tour. They help you get oriented and give you an overview of the city, culture, and the main sights worth seeing. You’ll learn some history and be able to ask a local guide all the questions you have, which is the best way to get insider tips.

Free Walking Tours Amsterdam and New Europe both offer daily free walking tours. They last 2-3 hours and give you the perfect introduction to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
 

2. Visit the Van Gogh Museum

This museum is home to many of Van Gogh’s best works. It’s also the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works in the entire world. The museum does an excellent job of outlining his life, chronicling his works from beginning to end so you can better understand and appreciate his style and evolution (as well as his life beyond painting). Opened in in73, it’s one of the most popular (read: crowded) sites in the city, but don’t let that stop you from visiting. The museum also has paintings by other famous artists of the period, like Monet, Manet, and Matisse. If you want to beat the crowds, try visiting later in the afternoon.

Museumplein 6, +31 20 570 5200, vangoghmuseum.nl. Open Sunday–Thursday from 9am–7pm and Friday—Saturday from 9am–9pm. Admission is 19 EUR for adults. Students 18 and under enter free.
 

3. Explore Jordaan

Jordaan is a trendy residential area. While it’s become more popular in recent years, it’s still one of the most overlooked parts of the city. The area is full of cozy shops and boutiques, bars and pubs, and hip restaurants. It’s also the area of the city where Rembrandt lived during the final years of his life. It’s a quiet place to explore away from the crowds if you want to get a better feel for the city outside its main tourist areas.
 

4. Take a Canal Tour

Amsterdam is a beautiful, picturesque city thanks to the scenic canals that break up the city’s sprawl. To see the city from a new perspective, take a canal tour. There are large tour boats that can take you up and down the waterways, but you can also rent your own boat for a self-guided tour (if you’re comfortable driving a boat). Self-guided rentals are for small, open-air boats that give you a more intimate, unique experience. They cost around 50 EUR, which makes it super affordable if you have a few friends to join you. For a standard guided tour on a larger boat, expect to pay around 16 EUR per person.
 

5. See Anne Frank House

This is one of the most popular tourist sites in the entire city. While it’s an important and somber place to visit, it’s also incredibly overcrowded. You just shuffle through the house and never really have time to digest what you’re seeing. Personally, I think the Jewish History Museum does a better job at highlighting her life. However, if you do want to visit then be sure to book your ticket in advance or arrive very early.

Prinsengracht 263–267, +31 20 556 7100, annefrank.org. Opening daily from 9am–10pm (shorter hours in the winter). Admission is 10.50 EUR.
 

6. Visit the Rijksmuseum

Established in 1798, The Rijksmuseum is an art and history museum located right next to the Van Gogh Museum. The museum, recently renovated, features an extensive Rembrandt collection including the famous painting “The Night Watch.” In addition to works by Rembrandt, the museum is also home to an a robust collection of other classic Dutch painters, like Frans Hals and Johannes Vermeer. There are over 1 million items in the collection (it’s the largest museum in the country) with over 8,000 on display — so you can easily spend a few hours here.

Museumstraat 1, +31 20 674 7000, rijksmuseum.nl. Open daily from 9am–5pm. Admission is 19 EUR for adults. Students 18 and under are free.
 

8. Relax in Oosterpark

If you need to get away from the crowds, head to Oosterpark. It’s a relaxing green space east of the city center and is perfect for lounging and enjoying a sunny day. It’s much less busy than the city’s popular Vondelpark and will show you a different, more residential part of the city. There are sculptures (including the National Slavery Monument that commemorates the abolition of slavery in 1863), playgrounds, ponds, and plenty of space to picnic or lounge. It was the city’s first large park too, dating back to the 1890s
 

9. Try the Heineken Experience

Heineken is one of the most famous (and popular) beers in the world. You can take an interactive self-guided tour this former brewery and learn about how the beer was made and how the company evolved over the centuries (the beer dates back to the 1870s). Admission also includes two beers, so if you’re a fan be sure to book a tour. It’s a fun way to learn some history.

Stadhouderskade 78, +31 20 721 5300, heinekenexperience.com. Open Monday–Thursday from 10:30am–7:30pm and Friday–Sunday from 10:30am–9pm. Admission is 21 EUR at the door and 18 EUR when booked online.
 

7. Wander the Red Light District

Unsurprisingly, Amsterdam’s Red Light District is one of the city’s main draws. Though much tamer than in previous years, the Red Light District manages to balance sex and seediness with being a major international tourist attraction. While it’s worth seeing, I’d keep your time here brief. While it’s quite calm and quiet during the day, at night the area is bursting with drunken revelers and gawking tourists that clog the sidewalks. Even if it’s not your scene, I’d still make sure to see the area with your own eyes. It’s certainly unique!
 

10. See the Erotic Museum and the Amsterdam Sex Museum

Tucked away in an old warehouse in the Red Light District and has an exhibition about eroticism in all its various forms throughout the ages. It has sculptures, paintings, drawings, photographs, and other artwork. And, of course, there is a gift shop if you want a more unique souvenir from the city.

The Amsterdam Sex Museum is the more serious museum and if much more informative than the Erotic Museum (but also a little less fun). It was the world’s first sex museum, having opened in 1985. It highlights the history of sexual views and norms, as well as the lives of some of the world’s most sexually famous individuals (like the Marquis de Sade).

Erotic Museum: Oudezijds Achterburgwal 54, +31 20 623 1834. Open Sunday–Thursday from 11am–1am and Friday–Saturday from 11am–2am. Admission is 7 EUR.

Amsterdam Sex Museum: Damrak 18, +31 20 622 8376, sexmuseumamsterdam.nl. Open daily from 9:30am-11:30pm. Admission is 5 EUR.
 

11. Visit the Tulip Museum

The Netherlands is known for its stunning and Insta-worthy tulip fields. This tiny museum, located in a tulip shop, does a wonderful job of telling the history of tulips in country. It’s one of the best off-the-beaten-path attractions in Amsterdam. It’s never very busy and and it’s only 5 EUR (which makes it one of the cheapest museums in the city).

Prinsengracht 116, +31 20 421 0095, amsterdamtulipmuseum.com. Open daily from 10am-6pm. Admission is 5 EUR.
 

12. Take a Bike Tour

Bikes are to Amsterdam like wine is to Bordeaux. The locals love to bike everywhere and there are supposedly more bikes than people in the city. Bike useage has shot up 40% in the past two decades and locals collectivly cycle over 2 million kilometers every day! If you want to explore the way the locals do, take a bike tour.

Mike’s Bike Tours is the best company to use, whether for a tour or to rent a bike on your own. Not only do they offer city tours but they also offer bike tours of the surrounding countryside as well. Tours start at 32 EUR and last around 3 hours.
 

13. Spend a Day in Haarlem

Haarlem is a walled city that dates back to the Middle Ages, located just 35km from Amsterdam. The city is home to around 160,000 people and it’s quite quiet and calm. It has a beautiful central church, great outdoor market, and all the beauty of historic Amsterdam with fewer crowds. If you feel like getting out of the city, spend a few hours here just wandering about. You’ll get a much better feel for the country away from the busy and tourist-heavy streets of Amsterdam. Be sure to visit the Windmill too. It’s right on the water and offers tours as well as a nice view of the city.
 

14. Learn Something New at the Amsterdam History Museum

This is a huge museum that offers an in-depth and insightful look at Amsterdam’s past. There are a lot of artifacts, maps, paintings, and multi-media displays throughout that provide a comprehensive overview of the city and how it has evolved. museum. It’s one of the best history museums I’ve ever visited and you could easily spend 3-4 hours here. Even if you’re not a history buff like me it’s worth a visit. I can’t recommend it enough!

Kalverstraat 92, +31 20 523 1822, amsterdammuseum.nl. Open daily from 10am–5pm. Admission is 15 EUR.
 

15. Chill Out in Vondelpark

Created in 1865, this is Amsterdam’s largest (and most popular) park. Spanning over 120 acres, it’s the perfect place to walk, bike, people-watch, or relax — especially after a visit to a local coffee shop. In the summer, the park is filled with people and there are often lots of events here too. Pack a lunch, bring a book, and enjoy a picnic on a sunny afternoon!
 

16. See the FOAM

Fotografiemuseum Amsterdam is a photography museum and home to a stunning collection of incredible pictures. Surprisingly it also sees few crowds even though it’s in the main part of the city. Opened in 2001, the museum is composed of four exhibitions that are constantly changing so you never know what you might see (check the website to see what is on display during your visit). They have a beautiful outdoor garden too. It’s a small museum and it doesn’t take long to see so don’t pass it by!

Keizersgracht 609, +31 20 551 6500, foam.org. Open daily from 10am–6pm (9pm on Thursdays and Fridays). Admission is 15.50 EUR.
 

17. Visit the Jewish Historical Museum

This is the only Jewish history museum in the country, though it’s often overlooked in favor of The Anne Frank House. Personally, I think the museum does a better job whe it comes to highlighting the history and struggles of Jews in the Netherlands. Specifically, they have an excellent exhibit on World War II that highlights the Dutch resistance, complacency, and guilt over the Holocaust. Established in 1932 (and reopened in 1955, after WWII), the museum houses over 11,000 items, artifacts, and works of art.

Nieuwe Amstelstraat 1, +31 20 531 0310, jhm.nl. Open daily from 11am–5pm. Admission is 17 EUR.
 

18. Browse the Waterlooplein Flea Market

This is the oldest and biggest market in the city. With over 300 stalls, this open-air market is essentially a giant flea market. You can find anything and everything here if you’re willing to look. Secondhand clothing, hats and accessories, antiques, electronics, and much more can all be found here (both new and used). If there’s something you want, you’ll probably find it here so be sure to spend some time wandering and browsing. Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, it’s a fun place to explore and people watch.

Waterlooplein 2. Open Monday to Saturday from 9:30am-6pm.
 

19. Visit the Rembrandt House Museum

Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn is widely considered to be one of the greatest artists in human history (his famous painting, The Night Watch, is in the Rijksmuseum). This house, which he lived and worked in between 1639 and 1658 has been converted into a museum that highlights his life and work. You can see how he painted and how his house was decorated during his life. It’s a neat snapshot into history. If you’re an avid art/art history fan, this shouldn’t be missed.

Jodenbreestraat 4, +31 20 520 0400, rembrandthuis.nl. Open daily from 10am–6pm. Admission is 14 EUR.
 

20. See the Museum Amstelkring

Hidden inside a 17th-century canal house, this is one of the most interesting churches I’ve ever been to. Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder (“Our Lord in the Attic”) is a clandestine Catholic church that was secretly built during Protestant rule on the 3rd floor of a regular house (it was never really a secret, but since it was out of sight the authorities didn’t crack down on them too harshly). Built in the 1660s, the chruch has a beautiful drawing room and the furnishings and artifacts make this one of the best 17th-century rooms still intact.

Oudezijds Voorburgwal 38, +31 20 624 6604, opsolder.nl. Open Monday–Saturday from 10am–6pm and Sun days from 1pm–6pm. Admissions is 11.50 EUR.
 

21. Learn About Drugs at the Hash, Marihuana & Hemp Museum

No trip to Amsterdam is complete without learning a little bit about drugs. This museum (which has a sister museum in Barcelona as well) is full of information about the historical and modern use of cannabis. It covers all the medicinal, religious, and cultural uses of the plant and focuses on how hemp can be used for all sorts of beneficial agricultural, consumer, and industrial products. It’s actually really educational!

Oudezijds Achterburgwal 148, +31 20 624 8926, hashmuseum.com. Open daily from 10am–10pm. Admission is 9 EUR.
 

22. Explore the Museum Van Loon

Built in 1672, this museum is located in a canal house on the Keizersgracht canal. Originally, the house was owned by the wealthy Van Loon merchant family. They collected beautiful works of art and their house is now a museum full of period furniture, the Van Loon art collection, and Van Loon family portraits. Albeit small, it’s another museum that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. There’s an immaculate garden here too.

Keizersgracht 672, +31 20 624 5255, museumvanloon.nl. Open daily from 10am–5pm. Admission is 10 EUR.
 

23. Indulge at Foodhallen

Foodhallen is an indoor food market offering all kinds of delicious food. Opened in 20014, it’s essentially like having a bunch of food trucks all in one indoor location. There are over 20 different stalls here, making it the best place in the city for foodies. Personal favorites include Viet View and Le Big Fish.

Bellamyplein 51 or Hannie Dankbaarpassage 47, foodhallen.nl. Open daily from 11am-midnight.
 

24. Visit Noord

Noord has evolved into one of the cooler and trendier districts in recent years. It’s one of the cheaper areas in the city so a lot of new bars and restaurants have opened here. The old industrial areas have been reclaimed and there is lots of green space too. It’s a fun, vibrant area with much fewer crowds than the central part of the city. Rent a bike and explore — you won’t be disappointed!
 

25. Browse the Stedelijk Museum

I’ll be honest: I don’t like modern art. It’s just not my cup of tea. But if you do, this is the place in the city to see it. Opened in 1874, the museum is home to over 90,000 items including works by Jackson Pollock and Andy Warhol. The exhibitions cover paintings, drawings, graphic design, sculptures, sound, and installations. To be fair, there is a ton of variety here — it’s just not my favorite style. But definitely check it out if you’re an art fan!

Museumplein 10, +31 20 573 2911, stedelijk.nl. Open daily from 10am–6pm (10pm on Fridays). Admission ins 18.50.
 

26. Take an Alternative Art Tour

Amsterdam is home to some incredible street art. You’ll see it all over while you explore, but if you really want to appreciate it and learn about the alternative art scene in Amsterdam then take a tour. Alltournative Amsterdam runs an amazing, insightful tour where you can learn all about the alternative arts while getting to see the best murals in the city. All the people I took on the tour loved it!
 

27. Visit Quirky and Offbeat Attractions

There are tons of offbeat attractions in Amsterdam. Here are a few more of the best if you’re looking for more unique, quirky experiences:

• The Houseboat Museum – This decorated houseboat gives you a glimpse into what living on the canals is like. It’s cramped but interesting to see how people live on the canal.
• Electric Ladyland – The world’s first museum dedicated to fluorescent light. It’s definitely not your typical art gallery/museum but it’s fun to wander and interact with the colors and the fluorescent space.
• Micropia – A “zoo” home to all sorts of microbes and bacteria. It’s super educational as you can learn about all the invisible microbes that we interact with day to day (you can also scan yourself to see what actual bacteria and microbes are on you right then and there).
• The Torture Museum – This museum showcases the punishments prisoners faced throughout the city’s history. There are all sorts of brutal tools as well as a hanging cage and Inquisition chair. Disturbing but insightful!
• Museum Vrolik – This museum is home to one of the largest collections of human (and animal) deformities. It has some 150 different items, including creepy jars holding fetuses, human and animal skeletons, and even the remains of a pair of conjoined twins. Super weird!

28. Take a Food Tour

As a foodie, one of the best parts of any trip is getting to eat my way around a new city. Food is an important part of every culture, and it’s something I’m always happy to splash out on when given the chance. If you’re looking to learn more about Amsterdam’s food scene and sample some of the city’s best offerings then I suggest taking a food tour. Not only do you get to try amazing foods but you learn a ton about their history, how they’re made, and how the food culture here has evolved.

If you’re looking to try a food tour, some companies worth checking out are:

• Amsterdam Food Tours
• Hungry Birds
• Secret Food Tours

***

Amsterdam is more than just wild nights, drugs, and the Red Light District. It’s a hip, fun city with tons of museums and greenspace, as well as lots of history and delicious food. Plus, it’s incredibly scenic. It’s everything you want in a European capital!

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or planning a trip around Europe, make sure to spend a few days in Amsterdam. It won’t disappoint!

Want the real, most honest, straight to the point guide on Amsterdam?

Want to plan the perfect trip to Amsterdam? Check out my comprehensive guide to Amsterdam written for budget travelers like yourself! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel and save money in one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world. You’ll find suggested itineraries tips budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, and my favorite non-touristy restaurants, markets, and bars, and much more!! Click here to learn more and get started.

Photo Credits: 4 – Jukka, 5 – Jason Riedy, 6 – Rain Rabbit, 8 – Patrick Müeller, 9 – martin_vmorris, 11 – Tine van Voorst, 12 – Kotomi_, 13 – Sharon VanderKaay , 14 – Guilhem Vellut

The post The 32 Best Things to See and Do in Amsterdam appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

I’m still in casual mode these days and wearing sneakers has been my go to many days when I go out. I haven’t been out that much, but recently visited a friend of mine in town and wanted to look put together but casual and summery. It was starting to heat up but this outfit was still cool and casual.

I have several dresses/tunics like this in my closet that are above the knee, so really shorter than I feel comfortable in for a dress in the summer. I really don’t like above the knee anymore, so I will wear these dresses/tunics open with a t-shirt underneath for a casual feel. And these dress up an outfit and elevate it a bit more than just a top and pants would do.

The post Fashion over 50: Casual Jeggings with Black & White appeared first on Southern Hospitality.