Hong Kong is where western and oriental worlds collide. You can see this exciting fusion in everyday lifestyles, in local transport and especially in its cuisine. Intrepid’s Frank Lee is based in Beijing, but he always jumps at the chance to visit Hong Kong for a foodie fix…
“Just like so many Intrepid travellers, I love visiting Hong Kong because the food is so fantastic. The selection of local delicacies is overwhelming and best of all, the street food is really tasty, fresh, affordable and easy to find. Here are some of my favourite eating experiences that reflect the unique culture and flavours of Hong Kong…
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From learning the secrets of cooking perfect couscous, to enjoying a tranquil picnic in mountain gorges, Carlie Smith discovered why the aromatic flavours of Morocco will infuse your memories for years to come….
“Everything about Morocco was amazing – the sights, the smells, the people. However, the one thing that really stood out to me, and still does, was the amazing food experienced along the way. From something as simple as harissa and fresh dates eaten with the locals in the main square of Marrakech, to exotic tajines, with their incredible mix of savoury and sweet, cooked in the most wonderful earthen pots – just thinking about it makes my mouth water.
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Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil (a.k.a The Planet D) have a very healthy obsession with food, especially when it comes to travelling global and eating local…
“Travel without trying new food is like Angelina and Brad flying without a brood of children in tow, it just isn’t right. That is why tasting delectable dishes during our journeys is the most important part of our day! During breakfast we always discuss what we’re having for lunch and during lunch we always discuss where we should eat for dinner. It’s the most fun we have when travelling.
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Who would have thought that 2012 would be the year that Intrepid’s Anya Hodson sets herself one of the biggest challenges of her life? It’s not surprising that she’s pledged to do this for a cause that she’s passionate about, as she always gives everything 110%, but the kind of challenge that she’s decided to take on is definitely outside her comfort zone…
“I can recall being in Cuzco last year, climbing hundreds of steps a day and feeling the grip of high altitude tightening on my chest and lungs. The sheer majesty of Macchu Picchu will never be forgotten, but the steep descent down so many steps caused aches in my bones that lingered for days. I remember thinking to myself that I could never do a trip that involved trekking or cycling for days on end – I just didnt think that I had it in me.
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Never let it be said that Intrepid staff are cheap – but it’s true that we are always on the lookout for travel bargains. This can prove more of a challenge in the big cities of the United States, but Intrepid’s Claire Baxter comes to the rescue in Los Angeles with a low-budget tip on how to see a different side of town…
“On a recent trip I decided to take advantage of the free transport provided by my airport hotel and head down to Manhattan Beach. Although I was there in December, it was still really warm and perfect weather for a stroll and an ice cream.
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One of the world’s great shopping experiences is the mayhem of Chichicastenango markets. The prices are way too tempting, so before she could stop herself, Intrepid’s Rachael Harvey was bagging bargains in Guatemala…
“Jostle for space with traditionally dressed locals, haggle to your heart’s content and ponder whether or not the whole Guatemalan population has turned up. Don’t be surprised if you leave with a backpack overflowing with vibrant textiles and handmade jewellery that you won’t find anywhere else.
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Braille reading kits and Braille canes were deservedly top sellers amongst Intrepid Foundation ‘Global Gifts’ sales this Christmas. These will be distributed by Braille Without Borders (BWB), a wonderful organisation bringing education to blind children in Tibet. They have made extraordinary inroads in not just education, but also dispelling myths around disability in Tibet. Sabriye, the founder of BWB, updates us on their news…
“Right now, Tibet is freezing cold. On the farm, at an altitude of 3900m, the temperature varies between 11 degrees celsius during daytime and minus 11 degrees at night. Everyone has prepared for the coldest winter months of January and February. Our Tibetan colleagues use south-facing greenhouse like structures in front of the dormitory-windows to collect the heat of the sun. On the doors the house parents have placed extra quilts and blankets to protect the kids from the icy winds.
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If you’ve ever wondered what we mean by ‘Intrepid real life experiences’, then this story from Jill Olsson on her Classic Peru trip explains perfectly…
“Our Intrepid trip to Peru last September provided my husband and I with memories that will last a lifetime. Whenever I look at the woven table runner in my home in New Zealand I am reminded of the hardworking women of that village we visited in the Sacred Valley between Cuzco and Ollantaytambo.
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When Alison Meredith took up the challenge to travel the world for over a year, she probably never expected to be berated by border police, forced to ask strangers for help to get cash from an ATM or touching down in someone’s front yard in a hot air balloon. But all this and more happened in the first country she visited…
“The following is an email account of my initial experiences in China. It was the first destination of a life changing, 15-month journey through over 30 counties and still remains at the top of my list of favourites. I travelled with a German girl whom I met en route and despite the absolute chaos of China, or perhaps because of it, we had a fantastic time. I can’t recommend China highly enough if you’re after an eye-opening, all sense-assaulting, entertaining and thoroughly worthwhile travel experience.
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