April 2008
Ever wondered what Red Square looks like in the Spring?
Every week, Francesco Serra, our good friend and expert on all things Italian, gives us perspective on Italian culture. Residing in the northern city of Padova, but being a fiercely proud native Calabrian, he brings a unique perspective on all things Italian.
Our question today for Francesco....What do you typically eat for breakfast? Do you ever eat breakfast outside of the home? What's your favorite way to have coffee?
Don't get me wrong, there is nothing inherently fun about business trips. You usually can't pick where you go, how long you are there, where you stay, or how you spend most of your time. However, if you exercise a little forethought, you might just have a good time.
If you're ever in Singapore or Malaysia and want a cheap, delicious, authentic bite to eat, a hawker center is exactly what you're looking for. Hawker centers are extravaganzas of food, with numerous small food stands, surrounded by tables. At larger centers, you'll be able to find something from every local cuisine, which is especially tantalizing in multi-cultural Singapore.
I'm heading to NYC this weekend and it's been awhile since I've been there. When considering my transportation options, the seasoned travel advice "get a transit pass" popped in my head. But more importantly, when transit is concerned....know thy options. Sure, a tourist card may make sense in other cities throughout the world, like Berlin. But for my four day stint in New York, I discovered it's better to pay as you go.
Whenever you travel to an unfamiliar place, you'll likely be in the mood to sample some of the local fare. You don't have to plan your trip to the dish, but it helps to at least have an idea of what you want to try.
Singapore is a place where you can sample the best cuisine from many different cultures, without having to travel all over Asia. As a bonus, it also has some delectable dishes that are distinctly local. Before you go, get to know some of these dishes so you won't be stuck wondering what to try.
If you're traveling to a country that doesn't speak your language, you may likely be overwhelmed by hearing the local language when you first arrive. While it's important to learn some key words and phrases, it is also helpful to get acclimated to hearing the local language at full speed.
So, before you leave, search online for radio stations that are local to your destination. If it is possible to listen online, tune in for a few days and you'll find yourself more prepared for the language, accent, and cadence before you arrive.
I've often used this list of Italian radio stations, but don't overlook iTunes' International radio category, BBC's World Service, or the top-notch Radio Locator Service.
I REALLY hate the ban on water when going through airport security. At this point, I'm convinced that it's totally a conspiracy by the airports to sell us overpriced bottles of water. When I fly, I like to have my own supply of water within reach at all times and have begrudgingly settled for overpriced bottles. That is until now....when I thought, why not take my Sigg bottle, empty, and then fill it up at a water fountain after I get through security? Why have I not thought of this until now? My fears of my $20 bottle getting confiscated were allayed when I passed through security without a single question asked by TSA. I just left it empty in my bag and didn't get questioned at all. So, yes people, you can take your SIGG on the plane.
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