OHMYGOSSIP – Staying on that juicing tip, subbing zoodles for pasta and keeping gluten-free is challenging enough when you’re making your own meals at home. But the minute you fly out on your way to a blissful, week-long summer cruise, making healthy eating choices becomes even more of a challenge. We get it! That’s why we asked two of our favorite healthy eating gurus, The Nutrition Twins Lyssie Lakatos, RDN, CDN, CFT and Tammy Lakatos Shames, RDN, CDN, CFT, the best ways to eat healthy while on a cruise. These two are registered dietitians and authors of The Nutrition Twins’ Veggie Cure, and are all about giving practical, real-life advice to women looking to stay healthy and have fun.
1. Fill your plate— twice. First, grab a regular dinner-sized plate and load up with fresh veggies, like a salad with a simple dressing or steamed vegetables that aren’t drowning in oil or butter. The twins say this will “take the edge off your hunger” and help you make better choices the rest of the evening.
The ladies suggest picking up a small salad plate for your second trip to fill with foods like fresh fish, roasted vegetables, lean meats and whole grains. “The staff want to make sure you’re happy,” the twins remind, so if you’d like your salmon with a lighter sauce or prefer pesto to Alfredo, don’t be afraid to ask for substitutions.
2. Employ the “every other” rule. Tropical frozen drinks flow on a cruise ship; it’s easy to completely derail your diet when piña coladas are coming at you free and fast. The twins suggest sticking to wine and bubbly while you’re on board and chasing every alcoholic bevvie with a glass of water. Go one step farther and start the night with a black iced tea, they advise. It’s full of the amino acid theanine that brings calmness and alertness, helping you to make better choices throughout the evening.
3. Keep a food record. When you take note of your daily eating, it holds you more accountable to yourself. It’s hard to mindlessly gobble up five cookies when you’re writing down what you’re eating at the end of the night. It’s just another way to help keep you aware of your food choices during your vacation, which the twins say is the most important thing to staying healthy.
4. Snack smart. The twins remind that “you’re so close to food” on a cruise ship that you’re not going to starve — so it’s easy to snack smart and small. If you do feel snacky, they suggest handfuls of nuts, a cup of greek yogurt with berries, a bit of shrimp cocktail, hummus and carrot sticks or a few pieces of cheese and fruit.
5. Keep your suit on. Literally, keep your bathing suit on all day. “Think light!” the girls remind. If you stay in your suit all day, rather than, say, a flowing caftan, you’re more apt to steer clear of carb and sugar bombs that are guaranteed to make you feel bloated and sluggish.
Featured image: Ohmygossip.com Source: Brit.co/ Megan Parry
OHMYGOSSIP – Summertime is shor, way too short. That means it’s time to take a break from watching wanderlust YouTube vloggers and make time to finally take your trip! If you’re having a hard time choosing where to spend your vacay, let the stars guide you. Zodiac-obsessed gals, you know what’s up. Our star signs tell us a lot about our personalities, our best pets and even how to date. In sum, our signs give us… well, signs that can help us decide where we will have the best time!
Aquarius
The independently minded Aquarian loves a unique adventure, not the typical tourist hot spot. Trendy vacation destinations? Aquarians probably made them cool first. If you’re seeking warmer climates with mountainous views, Peru makes for a perfect place that is full of adventure opportunities beyond Machu Picchu. Craving a fun city to explore? Lisbon, a coastal city in Portugal, has a vibrant restaurant and cafe scene to go along with its rich history. Art enthusiasts will have a field day roaming their museums.
Pisces
One word comes to mind: Water. Tranquil beings, Pisces seek beautiful and calm surroundings that still have some options for fun outings when the mood strikes. Hawaii might be the first place that pops into your head, but why not switch it up a bit? Try Aruba! You can lay on beaches, sail, snorkel or go on some off-road tours. Aruba provides both relaxation and exploration, so Pisces will never be bored.
Aries
Aries are an active bunch who like to explore, especially if the destination is new and hikable. If the climate you’re seeking is nice and hot, Costa Rica is the way to go. It was pretty much made for Aries, with all the jungle hiking, surfing and plenty of hammocks. New Zealand is another destination that’s a bit out of the ordinary, with plenty to explore. Its gorgeous green mountains are just asking to be hiked (or even flown over by helicopter), and Aries might never want to leave.
Taurus
Bulls seek vacations where they can enjoy some of the finer things in life, and they all must be delicious. Heading to wine country and exploring Napa or Sonoma would be a no-brainer, but what if you were looking to explore further? Brighton Beach in England is a seaside town with a pebble beach (and pier), plenty of shopping and excellent restaurants to explore (or, if you’re a bull who likes to try traditional local fare, some of the best fish-and-chip shops the whole UK has to offer).
Gemini
Geminis love to travel to places with activities around every corner. Museums, shopping, cultural landmarks and plenty of parks for people watching are all musts for a Gemini’s vacation spot. That’s why it’s best to go to a big city. Madrid is a dream for a traveler looking to soak in history and culture. Spend an afternoon in the Prado Museum, then go on a tapas crawl. Another big city for the bravest of Geminis to explore would be Tokyo: all the vibrancy, all the karaoke, all the Harajuku, all of the time!
Cancer
Cancers generally aren’t lovers of crowds and prefer things on the chiller side. Therefore, they look for vacation spots that will accommodate their comfort needs. A unique destination for Cancers could be Galway, a coastal town in Ireland. It has all the charm of Dublin, minus the big city bustle, plus it’s off the North Atlantic Ocean (Cancers like being near water). If you’re seeking a warmer climate, Santa Barbara, California is a beautiful coastal hideout.
Leo
Leos know what they like and want a vacation that won’t disappoint. Must-have aspects for a Leo vacay include a historically rich city with a hint of glam and a lively nightlife. Paris could be the place to be, but been there, done that. Lions, make your way to Berlin. With a crazy nightlife scene and galleries upon galleries, this is a city booming with culture. Looking for similar glamour but seaside? Hit up Barcelona, Spain for bustling street life and an art scene that can’t quit.
Virgo
Virgos aren’t just looking for a warm destination with great food — they like to learn while they vacay. For them, it’s all about what they can walk away with. Amsterdam is not only historic but also beautiful. Virgos can up their history and art knowledge in museums, experience the culture by exploring the markets (flea, book, flower, etc) and soak in the beauty of the architecture and gardens. Looking for a stateside equivalent? If you haven’t been, it’s
New Orleans or bust for you.
Libra
Libras like their options. They like to keep things interesting, see all the things a place has to offer and, if they feel so inclined, check out surrounding areas as well. If you haven’t saved up to backpack around Europe or Spain for a month or two (#samesies), you might still have a chance to save a bit and see what the Greek Islands have to offer. You can sail, check out wineries, visit historical sites and hit the beach — all while experiencing the charms of local haunts.
Scorpio
Scorpios are a bit outdoorsy, and they like to explore. While you don’t have to get crazy rustic (vacations should always be at least a bit relaxing), a bungalow in Tulum, Mexico might be the ideal spot for a post-cave dive nap. Tulum offers ancient Mayan ruins, a city center with authentic food and one of the best beaches in Mexico. Pro tip: If you want to stay in the US, Big Sur in California has some swoon-worthy beaches and hiking trails.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius kids like to travel — like, really, really travel. They like to immerse themselves and live the life of a local. You can go Nordic and jet to Iceland for hot springs and black sand beaches. You can also check out some of the oldest breweries in the world in Belgium. Looking for a warm spot? Try backpacking in Belize. The world is Sagittarius’ oyster.
Capricorn
Capricorns need a balanced vacation of sightseeing and chilling. Somewhere like Prague could be a great fit for Capricorn. Explore the castles and the city’s Wenceslas Square, then take a load off along the river with a beer at a local pub. If the Caribbean is more your scene, try Bocas del Toro, Panama. Swim with dolphins in the coral reef, explore restaurants in the villages and kick back in your bungalow with a fresh juice or cocktail.
Featured image: Ohmygossip.com Source: Brit.co/ Kristin Egan
OHMYGOSSIP – If you’re anything like us, you have wanderlust coursing through your veins and are continually adding to your list of travel destinations you *must see* in this lifetime. Don’t let that travel spirit dwindle any longer! Instead of focusing on that work/life balance or comparing schedules with your bae or BFF to plan a trip “once things settle down,” start planning a trip to one (or more!) of Pinterest’s top 10 travel destinations below. Whether you travel solo or make it work with a travel buddy, these spots will satisfy that wanderlust and bring adventure, culture and a whole lot more.
1. Pink Sand Beach, Bahamas: If you thought the Bahamas was all restaurants and casinos, Pink Sand Beach is going to blow your globe-trotting mind. Natural coral reef begets pretty pink sands that meet up with the turquoise seas in a postcard-perfect way. Enjoy snorkeling, shelling, fishing and swimming, or rent a bike and tour the island. 2. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia: The lakes of this national park are famous for their ever-changing teal, turquoise or deep blue waters (depending on the ebb and flow of natural minerals deposits). Wooden footbridges and pathways link the 16 lakes, taking visitors over rumbling waters and under waterfalls. Camp nearby in small bungalows and rise at dawn to beat the summer crowd. 3. Lago di Braies, Italy: Located in a lush verdant valley beneath the towering snowcapped Dolomite mountains, Lake Braies is a sight to behold. There’s hiking in the mountains and water activities on the lake, but be aware that the crystal-clear waters are icy from snow runoff, even in summer. Those who prefer more leisurely activities can rent a rowboat and paddle about while filling their Instagram feeds with picture-perfect vistas. 4. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand: A galaxy of living lights fires up the night in the caves beneath the Waitomo River. Water creatures called glowworms, unique to New Zealand, radiate a natural luminosity that has been drawing sightseers for centuries. Walk amongst the geysers, hot springs and bubbling mud pools yourself, or enjoy one of the local guided underground boat tours. The Waitomo area is also home to black water rafting, the Waitomo Trail Run and a “Middle Earth Tour” for the Tolkien geeks among us. 5. Cascada Bigar, Romania: Located in a nature reserve in the Anina Mountains, Bigar Falls is a watery wonder. Underground springs flood high-terrain caves, pushing the water down smoothly rounded, moss-covered cliffs. The falls break over trees and brush, looking like leafy umbrellas in a deluge. Explore the 650-foot river upwards to the spring and go spelunking in the small cave. But beware: To enter, you must first cross an icy river in your bare feet and climb a fragile-looking rope ladder. 6. The Azores, Portugal: Majestic manor houses, 15th-century churches and sheep dot the landscape of this archipelago. Towering cliffs and sapphire waters make the islands a cliff diver’s paradise. Fun fact: It’s actually the home of the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. But for the less daring among us, Santa Maria Island has amazing water sport facilities, and the other islands offer an array of cathedrals, churches and museums to tour. 7. Trolltunga, Norway: It’s hard to believe your eyes when you first see Trolltunga. A shear slab of cliff hovers seemingly in mid-air over a vast canyon that descends ever deeper into a blue ravine. An Insta-worthy photo-op, for sure, it’s also a climb-at-your-own-risk adventure. If you do plan to hike it, pack sturdy boots, a map, compass, flashlight, first-aid kit, extra clothing and plenty to eat and drink. The weather is moody, and every year search and rescue parties have to go after hikers in trouble. There are no nearby accommodations, but you can pitch a tent. 8. Faroe Islands, Denmark: These lush emerald-green cliffs floating in the frothy tide of the North Atlantic are beautiful, rugged and majestic all at once. Hikers and birdwatchers will be in their element, and almost all will fall in love with the colorful cottages and grass-roofed churches. Tiny towns are linked by dependable roads, making travel easy. Or you can see the sights by a century-old sloop. 9. The Grand Canyon’s Havasu Falls, Arizona: Havasu Falls belongs to the Havasupai American Indian Reservation. Though not an easy hike, it’s well worth the effort. Havasupai means “people of the blue-green water,” and you’ll find that an apt description when you see the azure waters. After 10 miles of hiking, you’ll reach a village with a restaurant, a general store and WiFi. You can stock up there and only have two more miles to hike. Reward yourself at the end with a dive into the crystal clear pool at the bottom of the falls. 10. Jacob’s Well, just outside of Austin, TX: It’s known as one of the most dangerous cave diving spots on the planet, but don’t let that keep you away from Jacob’s Well. The well is spring-fed by the Trinity Aquifer, and its cool waters have lured locals and tourists for hundreds of years. Even if you don’t visit the caves below, you’ll enjoy jumping off surrounding rocks and into the clear water spewing from the well. The area offers many swimming holes and zip line tours.
Featured image: Ohmygossip.com Source: Brit.co/ Sally Jones
OHMYGOSSIP – We’ve started planning our summer vacations and are dreaming about all of the tokens and souvenirs we are going to find on our adventures. But what happens when you come across that perfect ukulele and you still have 10 days left on your trip? Or you stumble upon a stunning painting that would look amazing on your wall but it can’t be rolled up and stowed away? We´ll give you six tips on how to vacation and get all of your keepsakes home in perfect condition.
1. Plan your souvenir wish list ahead of time: Do some research by checking out your favorite travel blogs or Instagrammers to learn what your destination is known for — e.g. the best textiles, best teas or best treats, so you know what the must-haves are and where to grab ’em!
2. Create a multi-city plan: When road tripping and traveling to multiple cities with your besties, space in the car can get a little tight. Free up some room by finding the nearest FedEx Office® to drop off the treasures you collect along the way. They make it so seamless to ship any goody home that we’ve been sending care packages to our besties left and right. Enjoy your driving excursions comfortably and head to your next city worry-free.
3. Stick with souvenirs that are collectable yet sensible: This will help prevent you from buying souvenirs that you’ll never use again. Need to spice up your walls at home? Find a vintage postcard or collectible art print and ship it home so that you don’t have to carry around delicate paper.
4. When buying delicate souvenirs, leave it to the experts: Send gifts to loved ones directly from your travels instead of dragging everything from place to place. This beautiful mirror is far too lovely to risk breaking in luggage, so trust the experts to pack your gift for peace of mind.
5. Look for local unique goodies: Immerse yourself in the culture by seeking items that are specific to your experience and will always make you think of your vacation when you see them. Being San Francisco natives, our must-haves are the Tartine Bread Cookbook, a Heath Ceramics Vase, Ritual Coffee grounds, the WildSam guide to San Francisco and, of course, some cute notebooks from a local bookstore.
6. Find the musical instrument of your dreams: A Hawaiian ukulele or a Nashville-made guitar are just a couple of handmade musical instruments that you can find on your travels. You’d be hard-pressed to pass them up, so visit FedEx Office® to carefully ship your new instrument home while you finish your adventures!
Source: Brit.co /Anita Yung Featured image: Ohmygossip.com
OHMYGOSSIP — The U.S. Citizenship Test is an important step in your U.S. citizenship application. During the citizenship interview, a US citizenship and immigration officer will ask the applicant ten(10) questions. The applicant must answer six(6) out of the ten(10) questions correctly in order to pass the civics portion of the naturalization test. If you fail the citizenship interview test, your citizenship application will be rejected.
OHMYGOSSIP — United States lawful permanent residency refers to a person’s immigration status: the person is authorized to live and work in the United States of America on a permanent basis.
OHMYGOSSIP – The best places to travel with mother! Anytime is a good time to travel with mom. She spent years taking care of you– feeding you, changing your diapers, worrying when you stayed out past curfew. Why not treat mom to an amazing vacation? It’s a great way to say thanks, reconnect and build new memories. Here’s a few amazing places to visit with that special lady in your life.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
I adore Santa Fe. It’s a place that I’ve returned to six times and have brought my mom and my sister on separate girl’s trips. I love this town not only for its desert beauty, but rich art and culture. A few of my favorite things to do in this stunning desert oasis:
Stroll through historic downtown Santa Fe, soaking up the native American culture, architecture and art scene.
Visit Canyon Road for over 100 no-attitude art galleries. Sculptures,paintings, ceramics– trust me, there’s something for everyone.
Celebrating? There’s no better place to do that than at the James Beard award-winning restaurant, Compound.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
I may be a little biased (it’s my hometown, after all!), but I love Portsmouth. Settled in 1623, this waterfront city is incredibly walkable, with a historic downtown chockfull of restaurants, cafes, ice cream parlors and boutique mom and pop shops. We like to joke Gap had to move out. Here’s where to go on your next visit:
Spend a day at Strawbery Banke, a 10-acre, open-air historic museum. It’s Portsmouth’s oldest neighborhood, and features original homes, taverns and shops all from the 17th and 18th century. A few of the homes are open to the public, including that of John Paul Jones, known as the father of the U.S Navy.
Take in a show at the historic Music Hall Theater. This Victorian-era establishment boasts incredible concerts, stand-up performances and cinema.
Drop your bags at Wentworth By the Sea, the old Grand Dame hotel reminiscent of the Hotel del Coronado in San Diego.
Tuck into fresh, delicious seafood (paired with live music!) at Dolphin Striker, a local favorite since the mid-70s.
Wilmington, Delaware & the Brandywine Valley
A trip to Wilmington is all about seeing America’s early aristocracy (think of it as a way to heal your mother’s broken heart now that Downton Abbey is really over). Here’s a few of my must-dos:
Visit Winterthur, the magnificent 175-room estate of Henry DuPont (as in the DuPont’s) boasting beautiful gardens and one of the largest collections of early American furniture.
Road trip through the scenic Brandywine Valley, which offers beautiful vistas of pastoral landscapes you thought only existed in paintings.
Check-in to one of my all-time favorite hotels, the Inn at Montchanin Village. It’s not so much that the hotel is in the village of Montchanin. Rather, it is the village! Stay in a luxuriously renovated cottage that once housed the workers of Winterthur.
While you’re at Montchanin Village, be sure to enjoy dinner at Krazy Kat’s, housed in a renovated blacksmith’s shop.
Wander through the Brandywine Museum, soaking up early American art.
St. Petersburg, Florida
I love St. Pete as a destination for mom. Sunshine, beaches, art and sunset cruises– sounds like heaven, and I am sure she’ll agree! Some local highlights:
Even if you’re not typically an art lover, there’s something intoxicating about The Dali (a museum dedicated to Salvador Dali’s works) as well as the and Dale Chihuly Gallery. Spend a morning at either and who knows? You might find yourself inspired to pick up the ol’ paintbrush.
When you think shuffleboard, you think old people. But I want you rid your brain of that stereotype because the Petersburg Shuffleboard Club is seriously fun. Founded in 1924, this 90-year-old private recreation club opens their doors to the public every Friday 7 to 11pm. Just do it.
Fun fact: this place inspired the hispterified Royal Palms shuffleboard club in Brooklyn.
You’re on the west coast of Florida, so why not check out a beautiful sunset cruise? There are tons available, on all kinds of ships– from sailboats to yachts.
You can’t mention St. Pete without talking about the miles of white powder sandy beaches and warm calm Gulf waters. It’s certainly worth it to drive north to Clearwater Beach for the day.
Stroll through the Saturday Morning Market, where the city’s main road shuts down to host a lovely farmer’s market (with plenty of free samples!).
Spend an afternoon checking out St. Pete’s Pier, where (amongst other things) you’ll find a stunning public restroom built in the Romanesque-style. Really, you can’t make this stuff up!
Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville is more than horse racing and bourbon drinking (though to be fair, you should enjoy both while there!). Here’s a few spots to take mom in the Ville:
Spend a few hours wandering through the East Market District, a revitalized area now called NuLu stocked with charming antique stores, art galleries and more.
A trip to Churchill Downs is a must, even on a non-derby day.
With the Humana Festival of New Plays and the critically acclaimed Actor’s Theater of Louisville, this city has a strong theatrical heart. Check in to see what is on stage.
Grab lunch at Wagner’s Pharmacy. Open since 1922, this is where horsemen would come to get their cigarettes and food. Lunch counter hasn’t changed much.
Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, Cherokee Park offers over 400 acres of meadows, trails and hills to explore.
For a little R&R with mom, I say opt for a long weekend in Fredericksburg. This historic small town (population: 10,829) boasts quaint bed and breakfasts, great dining, stunning drives and wineries. Yes, you heard that right! My top picks:
They call it NEW Texas gold, but you and I will keep calling it wine. There’s a handful of places to sample the local vino. My suggestion? Book a wine tour with transport and don’t spend one second worrying about whether or not you’re over the legal limit.
Experience the great outdoors at Enchanted Rock Natural Area, a large pink rock that rises like a dome, much like Ayers Rock in the Australian Outback. Hike to the top or around it for beautiful views.
Show off your dance moves at one of the the three historic dance halls in town. Fingers crossed mom gets twirled on the dance floor by a handsome cowboy.
Support the local economy by shopping and dining in Fredericksburg’s charming historic district.
Puerto Rico
I like think of Puerto Rico as a tropical island and Europe-inspired destination in one. Bonus? No passport needed! Here’s where to go:
Get that old, sleepy European vibe in Old San Juan, which boasts more than 400 restored buildings from the 16th and 17th Centuries.
Have a Panama hat made at Ole on Forteleza Street (c’mon, you know you want one!).
Visit El Morro, the beautiful seaside fort. There’s a great lawn where families fly kites.
Check another National Park off your list with El Yunque– the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest system.
Enjoy drinks and dinner in the courtyard at the breathtaking El Convento, a restaurant and hotel housed in a former convent.
Old San Juan is walking distance to the tranquil and family-friendly beach, Playa Escambron. You’ll find Condado and Isla Verde beaches just a short cab ride away.
Santa Barbara, California
As far as destinations, it’s hard to beat Santa Barbara. It’s got everything: mountains, beach, sunny skies, friendly people and lots of fun things to do. This is truly one of those places where I can’t help but think, “People actually live like this? No fair!” Some local favorites:
Kick back with tacos and margaritas at Los Agaves.
Channel your inner artist at Art from Scrap, an upcycling and crafting studio.
Spend an afternoon checking out beautiful downtown Santa Barbara. Fantastic shopping and just plain ol’ wandering.
Love wine? You’ll adore Urban Wine Trail, where you can taste wine from the central coast without all the driving.
Feeling adventurous? Try Paddleboarding on the bay. I love it beacuse it’s one of the only water sports that doesn’t get your hair wet!
Enjoy the fresh California air at Douglas Family preserve. Easy hikes with amazing views of the coast.
For a bit of history and a fantastic meal, hit up Cold Spring Tavern. Originally built as a stagecoach stop in 1886, these guys still serve excellent breakfast, lunch and dinner in an incredibly quaint setting.
Jackson, Wyoming
The minute you arrive in beautiful Jackson, you and mom will start thinking of ways that will allow you to move there: Maybe we could open a coffee shop? Mend fences? Finally, an opportunity to launch our chainsaw art career! Who wants a giant, wooden bald eagle? All kidding aside, I love the vibe in this quaint mountain town. Here’s where to hang out:
Spend a day (at least!) at Grand Tetons National Park. One of my favorites spots is Jenny Lake, which offers great hikiing as well as boat rides.
Stroll through historic downtown. Trust me, you won’t get bored.
Two of my favorite restaurants are just a few blocks off the main town square, toward E. Broadway. There’s Café Genevieve (a perfect, hearty breakfast) and Persephone Bakery who serve up amazing coffee, croissants, and wine.
A few hours in Jackson will leave you hankering for a pair of cowboy boots. I love Vintage Jackson, where you can get your cowgirl on without selling the farm.
Speaking of farm, pretend what it might be like to buy one by checking out the Sotheby’s store window. Lots of luxury listings, including ranches. In my dreams!
For something a little more affordable, pay a visit to clairvoyant Carroll Ann at Cosmic Café. Who knows– maybe a big windfall is in your future.
Palm Springs, California
Every mom deserves a Hollywood getaway-getaway, and for that, there’s no place like Palm Springs. Here’s how to treat mom like the starlet she is.
Walk the neighborhoods and check out the mid century modern homes. A favorite is the Movie Colony, home to the former residences of folks like Frank Sinatra, Cary Grant and Jack Benny. You could do a self-guided tour, or sign up for something more official, like a Palm Springs Architecture Tour.
Do a little high end vintage shopping on Palm Canyon Drive, stopping at places like AlaMod 768 and PS Modern Way. For vintage inspired threads, you can’t beat Trina Turk’s Palm Springs outpost.
Pretend you’re a honorary Rat Packer at Melvyn’s, where you can indulge in table side Caesar salad served by tuxedoed waiters.
Enjoy the dry desert air on a two-mile loop hike thru Tahquitz Canyon, which leads to a 60-foot waterfall. For something a little more adventurous, take the Aerial Tram up to the top of the Jacinto Mountains. Hike around, or simply soak up the view.
OHMYGOSSIP – As a tourist in Romania, you may easily feel at home and forget that you are in a foreign country. But the welcoming and friendly spirit of the Romanian people will not help you over-bridge the cultural differences and understand their values. So in order to avoid a culture shock, there are some things you should know about Romanians before you travel to their country. Of course, Romanians are not all the same, but there are some cultural characteristics that most of them share.
Food Habits
Romanians eat three times a day and dinner is typically their biggest meal. They are used to eating very late at night, so ordering food after 10:00 p.m. in a restaurant is not uncommon. Romanians love dinner parties and they will use every opportunity to gather some friends around their table. If they invite you for dinner, you should expect a copious meal with many courses and delicious deserts. Each course is eaten with bread and is big enough to stuff an average stomach.
The host tries her best to impress you and expects to be complimented for her cooking. If you like the food she will always insist that you have second and even third helpings. Invoking a small stomach will not spear you the insistence. Many people may find this very annoying, but in Romania this is considered good manners.
You are expected to eat all you put on your plate. Romanians don’t like wasting food and leaving it on your plate may be perceived as a sign that you didn’t like the cooking. When offered food, the Romanians will first politely refuse. But don’t be fooled. The “no, thank you” only means that you’ll have to insist.
Punctuality
In Romania, punctuality is considered a strength when doing business, but when invited to a party time seems to have a totally different meaning. If you are told the party is at 7 you are not expected to show up exactly at 7 sharp. In fact, being right on time may be a little awkward and even inconvenient for the hosts who, at 7 o’clock may still be in the shower getting ready for the party. So if you are told 7 o’clock, you should plan on arriving more towards 7:30.
Religion and Spirituality
Romanians believe in God but are very little concerned with their religion. Instead, they care a lot about their religious traditions and are also very superstitious. Most of the Romanians practice Eastern Orthodoxy and as such participate in very elaborate customs and ceremonies, but they will flock the churches only two times a year: for Christmas and for Easter.
Meeting and Greeting
When greeting a stranger, Romanians may seem formal and reserved, but when they meet with friends will kiss and hug each other. When they kiss a friend they do it twice, on each cheek, from left to right. Doing it only once would seem cold and distant. It is not unusual to see a man kissing a woman’s hand when they meet, but that is not something expected from a foreigner.
Compared to the Western Europeans, Romanians are very talkative and outgoing. They will easily talk to strangers in the street, or on the bus, or in restaurants. And if encouraged, the conversation may soon become more than a general chit-chat. If you are in an airport, or waiting at the train station you may even be asked where you are going, where you are coming from, or even what you do for a living. What to some people may seem like an intimate conversation, they will consider just friendly talk.
Judging and Complaining
Romanians complain frequently and about everything: politics, government, their economic conditions, or each other. Complaining is part of their every conversation, but is acceptable only among themselves. A similar negative remark coming from someone from another country would be interpreted as an offense.
In Romania you’ll be judged by the way you speak and by your level of education, rather than by your accent, or money. Romanians like to compare themselves with other nations, but they don’t think in terms of different, they think in terms of better and worse.
Humor
Romanians have a very keen sense of humor, rather similar to the English sense of humor: very ironic and directly unto the person. Becoming the subject of their jokes can be quite irritating, as they have no sense of political correctness. They enjoy poking fun even at themselves, especially as a nation and also have a lot of ethnic jokes about the different minorities living in Romania, like the Gypsies, Hungarians or Jews.
What Annoys Them
Romanians are extremely friendly and easy going people, but there are a couple of things that will surely ruffle their feathers and cause them to label you stupid and ignorant beyond redemption. One, is confusing them with Gypsies, an ethnic group that has been living on Romania’s territory for centuries, also called Roma or Romanies, hence the similarity with Romanians. Being a Gypsy in Romania is the worst social stigma and the relationship between Romanians and Gypsies is somewhat similar to the relationship between American whites and blacks. Although Gypsies have never been enslaved en masse, they were always an underclass in Romania, living in poverty and illiteracy.
The second is confusing Bucharest with Budapest. In the beginning, when celebrities like Michael Jackson and other musicians playing in Romania’s capital come on stage shouting “how are you doing, Budapest?” locals were indulgently amused. But as the trend continued, they moved from amused to seriously pissed off. After all, Bucharest is the 6th largest city in the European Union and a fine cultural and artistic center. It doesn’t deserve to be confused with its neighbor just because it has a similar name. Featured image: OHMYGOSSIP/ Helena-Reet Ennet Source: Anda Galffy/ travelnotesandbeyond.com
OHMYGOSSIP – There is a small country in Eastern Europe that used to be my home – Romania. While I lived there I didn’t care too much about its natural beauty or historic sites. I was constantly dreaming of seeing far-away lands and exotic places.
Now, every time I go back I’m surprised to discover how beautiful Romania actually is. 25 years later and from the other side of the world, I realized that “far-away” or “exotic” is just a matter of geographical perspective. It depends where you are coming from. For people living in America, or Australia, or Japan, Romania is indeed a far-away and exotic place. So if you haven’t seen it yet, I could give you at least 10 reasons to visit Romania.
1. Beautiful landscapes
Romania enjoys a very diverse scenery: from high mountain peeks reaching almost 3,000 meters (the Carpathian Mountains), to hills and plains, the Danube Delta and the Black Sea shore. The country is well-watered by many rivers, streams and lakes. There are two main highways crossing the Carpathian Mountains: Transalpina and Transfagarasan running at very high altitudes, with twists and turns and deep ravines, equally beautiful and dangerous.
2.Medieval towns and old authentic villages
Throughout Transylvania there are villages that remained almost unaffected by modern civilization, still looking like they did three centuries ago. In the central part of the country there are some beautifully preserved medieval towns, like Brasov, Sighisoara, Sibiu, Cluj, or Alba Iulia whose citadels make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
3. Beautiful castles
Romania is home to three of Europe’s top 25 castles: the elegant Peles Castle, located in the Carpathian Mountains near the town of Sinaia; Bran Castle, originally built by the Knights of the Teutonic Order in 1212 and later closely tied to the legend of Dracula; and Hunedoara Castle, also known as Hunyadi, or Corvin Castle, the place of the 7 years imprisonment of Vlad the Impaler and supposedly a haunted place.
4. Easy to visit
As a former communist country, Romania isn’t usually the place that people have high up on their must-see lists. That means tourist attractions can be visited with ease, without many restrictions and limitations, usually strictly enforced in other countries. You can walk just by yourself in a castle without having to wait for an organized tour, or take pictures in an old church without being admonished. Historic sites are not overcrowded and picture-taking is not prohibited in most places. Unfortunately though, this started to change lately as the number of tourists visiting Romania is growing every year.
5. It’s affordable
Romania is still a budget destination where your dollar goes a long way. Hotel and food prices are very low compared to other European countries (a loaf of bread is $0.30, 1 lb. of beef tenderloin is $3.50, a bottle of domestic beer is $1.50). Restaurants and cafés can be slightly more expensive near the tourist sites, but still affordable. Admission fees for museums and other attractions are also very reasonable and so is public transportation (busses, metro, or cabs). Romania’s railway system is one of the largest in the world and prices are very cheap. Many low-cost European airlines connect Romania’s cities with other European countries.
6. Delicious food and historic restaurants
Tasty food has always been a part of the Romanian culture. Almost anywhere you eat the food is delicious. Romanian cuisine has some Hungarian, Germanic and Turkish influences but still maintains its identifiable character. An example would be the classic sour soup (“ciorba“) made with “borş” (a sour liquid made from wheat and cornflower) and fried mutton pastrami with polenta. So if you visit Romania, be prepared to return with a few extra pounds. But besides tasty food, Romania is home to some very old, traditional restaurants with wonderful interiors, painted ceilings and ornate woodwork . Some of the most famous ones are located in Bucharest’s historic center, like Caru’ cu Bere, Hanu’ Berarilor (located in a historic house that once belonged to Elena Lupescu, mistress of King Carol II), Hanu’ lui Manuc, Crama Domneasca, or Casa Doina.
7. The Danube Delta
The Danube Delta is formed by the river Danube flowing into the Black Sea. There are many beautiful sites in Romania that are worth visiting, but if you are a bird-watcher and pure nature lover you shouldn’t miss this one . It is largest and the best preserved delta in Europe, with over 300 species of birds living in its lakes and marshes. The Danube Delta is a protected habitat and was declared a biosphere reserve.
8. The Painted Monasteries of Bucovina
Among the most picturesque treasures of Romania is a group of 8 Painted Monasteries located in the northeastern part of Romania, in Bucovina. The churches date back to medieval times (15th to 16th century). In most cases they have been founded as burial places for the noble families in the area. These churches are extremely well preserved and absolutely unique. There is no other place in the world where you can find such a group, with such high quality interior and exterior frescoes. The frescoes represent biblical scenes from the Old and New Testament. The painters (most of them unknown) gave the biblical scenes their own interpretation, using colors like the famous Voronet blue, the red of Humor, the yellow of Moldovita and the green of Arbore. The wall paintings, inspired by the Byzantine art and completely covering the churches’ façades, are of inestimable artistic value. In 1993 the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina have been declared a World Heritage site.
9.Bucharest’s architecture
In the past, the city’s elegant inter-belic architecture earned Bucharest the nickname of “Little Paris”, but unfortunately today’s architecture is rather a blend of some old palaces dating back to the 19th century, art-deco buildings and new modern blocks of flats. Altogether Bucharest is a mixed bag with some clean, well maintained areas next to neglected, dirty ones. Many of the historic buildings have fallen into serious disrepair, but there are still some old well preserved ones, especially in the downtown area. Miraculously, a good number of historic churches in Bucharest managed to survive Communism and have been restored to their original beauty. The European Union invested serious funds into rebuilding some of the old, historic areas of Bucharest.
10. Friendly people
In the end, no matter how beautiful a country is, it is its people that will make the difference. Romanians are known for their friendliness and hospitality. The best part is that almost everywhere you go you’ll find someone who speaks English, especially the young generation. And even if they don’t, they will do their best to accommodate you or point you in the right direction. In fact they may even offer to accompany you to where you need to get if that’s not very far.
OHMYGOSSIP – House Sitting is a growing travel trend – win-win-win for homeowners, travelers, and pets! It’s a mutually beneficial system that matches travelers with homes. And often, matching animal-loving travelers with animals that need love! I personally am a huge fan of house sitting because it allows me to travel full-time by exchanging my care for new animal friends and a place to stay. But since it’s relatively new, I thought I’d answer some questions and explain some of the benefits!
1. Benefits the Homeowner
If you are a homeowner, having a house sitter to occupy your house on a daily basis is the best step you can take for security, as well as the peace of mind knowing your house and property are cared for. And, it’s free!
If you are a homeowner and a pet parent, having a pet-sitter take care of your babies while you’re away ensures pets are kept happier, healthier and safer in their home environment with their normal diet and routine uninterrupted.
2. Benefits the Sitter
House sitting gives you rent-free accommodation. This can significantly cut down (or eliminate) your travel costs, saving you thousands. It’s a great tool to help you not blow your travel budget. Maybe you don’t want to fork over tons of money for a hotel, or you just don’t feel like staying in a crowded dorm room with a bunch of drunk partiers.
Housesits can be as little as a few days to as long as 6 months to a year or more. As long as you are a responsible mature person and are able to manage a home and take care of maintenance and emergencies that arise, you basically get a free home to live in. There are homes available all over the world in most every major city and country. Is there somewhere you’re always wanted to go? Want to live like a local and really experience the culture authentically? Spend a few months on an island. Stay at a castle in Europe. Live off-grid in the jungle.
If you love animals, you benefit by getting to meet new animal friends, take care of them, and enjoy their companionship. Often, and especially when traveling, animal-lovers need their fix! Interacting with and loving animals in their homes, where they feel most comfortable, is such an awesome responsibility and pleasure. Dogs love to go on walks so you can get exercise and explore local areas, maybe even take them to parks or beaches. You can ride horses, milk goats, hang out with chickens, kiss kittens, or smell puppy breath (yum)!
3. Benefits the Pets
Pets don’t want their owners leaving just as much as their owners don’t want to leave them. They don’t think it’s a great opportunity to finally got some peace and finish working on their novel. Instead they can have issues of abandonment and separation anxiety. Pets can be creatures of habit and do best when their routine is uninterrupted. Nobody wants to impose pet care on unwilling or inexperienced friends, neighbors, or family. Even with the best of intentions, this can be quite a stressful experience to all involved.
Boarding pets comes with the risk of diseases, parasites and behavioral problems, not to mention emotional stress. I have personally worked at many veterinary hospitals and boarding facilities and have seen how traumatic this experience is to the animals. Pets don’t understand that they’re in a safe environment, instead they feel that they were abandoned by their loved ones and left in a jail cell with scary sounds and smells.
With over 15 years of personal experience pet sitting and over 10 as a veterinary technician, I can confidently say that the safest environment for pets to stay in while owners are away is their own homes.
4. Benefits the Home
Having a human occupy the home everyday, coming and going, turning lights on and off, using the tv/radio, and a bicycle or car; all this maintains a lived-in status in your home. This continual presence alone can prevent crime, robbery, and pet theft or abuse. Someone is also around to handle day to day operations, mail, cleaning, and maintenance or emergency issues that may arise. Pipes break, power goes out, water leaks. Better to have someone at home to handle these things rather than come home to a disaster. The peace of mind that comes from the safety and security of having a house sitter is sometimes worth is weight in gold.
5. Benefits the Travel Community
As ambassadors of ourselves, our country, housesitting, and the travel community as a whole, it benefits us all to work together in a symbiotic relationship. The positive experience you have with housesitting can travel online or by word of mouth and turn into someone else’s positive experience. We all want to keep our experiences professional, responsible and kind. This way we can all continue to benefit, and pets can get the love they deserve. House sitting is a great opportunity to live out your travel dreams and explore the world.
If you’re looking for a sitter, or if you’d like to become a sitter, there are many great websites to match homes with sitters. House Carers and Trusted Housesitters have tons of opportunities all over the world.
