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July 15, 2011
Three Great Asian Destinations Out of Tokyo
For those who have caught the travel bug, they understand how hard it can be to settle for just one travel destination. Every region has so much to offer, boasting original art, culture, cuisine, architecture and excitement. Those who love to travel seek the feeling of both nostalgia and diving into the unknown. When exploring a region as large as Asia, you’re sure to encounter both while gaining appreciation for regional customs and finding exhilaration in the uniqueness of each country. Nonstop flights to Tokyo out of PDX allow travelers to make their long journey to Asia as simple, quick and convenient as possible with only one connection. The city of Tokyo is a gateway to both the familiar and unaccustomed areas of Asia. Read more »
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July 12, 2011
Exploring the Corners of Tokyo
In a city as large as Tokyo, you can’t limit yourself to one area. While ideally it would be nice to spend a day (or week, or month) in each area of the city, most realities of work and other commitments limit our dream vacations and force us to make choices when it comes to what we see and do. Selecting your ideal activity in each area of the city is a good way to experience different areas and get your must-do activities accomplished. Here’s a list of different activities you can do around Tokyo. Read more »
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July 6, 2011
Photo Diary: Best Day Trips from Amsterdam
Amsterdam has enough excitement for a lifetime, but sometimes it’s nice to get out of the city. Consider expanding your horizons next time you are visiting Holland’s great capital and explore a few nearby towns that are only a short train ride away. These three towns will allow you to experience some of the cultural history that makes Holland incredible. Don’t nap for too long on the train, because along the trip you can see some beautiful sights! Make the most of your time in Holland and explore Delft, Keukenhof and Zaanse Schans. Read more »
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June 21, 2011
Ancient Arts of India
The traditions of India touch our lives in many different ways. Whether we take in the rich, warm smell of tikki masala curry when we walk past an Indian restaurant, relax after work with yoga, use virtually any spice in cooking, or enjoy a good Bollywood film every now and then, India is a place with a rich, magnificent culture, influence and history. We may even have India to thank for the discovery of the US, because without India, Columbus never would have set sail.
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June 16, 2011
Cool Globes Exhibit Comes to Amsterdam
A very exciting outdoor art exhibit is gracing Amsterdam with it’s presence this summer. The “Cool Globes: Hot Ideas for a Cooler Planet” public exhibit has spent the last several years on tour across the world after its debut in Chicago. Stops along the way included LA, San Francisco, Marseilles, Copenhagen and Geneva. Over fifty large, detailed globes designed by artists all across the world will stand on display in the West District of Amsterdam (Westergasfabriek) from June 7th to September 25th this year.
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June 14, 2011
Dance Across Oceans
Whether you like to tango, swing dance, salsa, waltz or just let loose freestyle on the dance floor, there is a little something for everyone both in Portland and across the pond. Several dance festivals, performances and groups are hitting the stage this year, and should make it to your calendar. If you’re in the mood to be amazed, inspired, or even shake a tail feather yourself, check out what 2011 has in store for you. Read more »
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April 13, 2011
Photo Diary: Food Festivals
Celebrating food is a daily tradition in Portland, Amsterdam and Tokyo, but throughout the year, each city pays special tribute to culinary genius during themed festivals. In Portland, a compilation of Oregon’s best chefs and restaurants gather on the Tom McCall Waterfront to boast their latest creations at the Bite of Oregon. The Dutch are famous for their cheese, and when paired with artisan bread at the Kunsthal Kookt, visitors are bound to leave with full stomachs and smiling faces. While the people of Tokyo take great pride in their own cuisine, they appreciate other cultures’ as well. During the Thai Festival, vendors present their best Thai dishes, including the spicy papaya salad pictured below.
Photo credits: Som Tom Spicy Papaya Salad, Ken Funakoshi; Pork sliders, Jocelyn McAuley; Cheese stall, kattebelletje
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February 10, 2011
5 Things You Didn’t Know About Sumo
In the U.S., we have little exposure to sumo wrestling outside of the Hollywood depiction or images of bounce houses and inflatable suits. In reality, the Japanese live and breathe sumo wrestling. The sport is extremely exclusive, and professional sumos are subject to strict lifestyles that dictate everything from their sleeping habits to hairstyles. If you’re traveling to Tokyo, it’s time to brush up on your sumo knowledge. Read more »
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January 10, 2011
A day with the iAmsterdam Card – Day Four: Design
Few people would argue that Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, if not the world. The amazingly well preserved 17th Century city center is instantly recognizable, even to many who have yet to visit. While one could be happy spending a full day just wandering around appreciating the scenery, fans of art and design can do even better by using the iAmsterdam Card to see some of the city’s special sights. Read more »
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December 17, 2010
A day with the iAmsterdam Card – Day Three: Museums
Considering its size, Amsterdam has an amazing number of world-class museums, and visitors who come to appreciate them are wise to consider buying the iAmsterdam Card before they arrive. These top museums are some of the more expensive attractions in the city, so the card will certainly save you some money on a day like this (not to mention the VIP status so you can skip the often-lengthy ticket queues). Read more »