The post 5 Foods to Try on Your Next Midwest Road Trip appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza, Illinois
This iconic dish, characterized by its high, flaky crust and generous layers of cheese, toppings, and sauce, is a true representation of Chicago’s rich culinary heritage.
Juicy Lucy, Minnesota
The Juicy Lucy is a delicious twist on the classic American cheeseburger and a must-try in Minnesota. What sets it apart is the cheese, which is stuffed inside the meat patty instead of being placed on top.
Detroit-Style Coney Dogs, Michigan
A Detroit-style Coney Dog consists of a beef hot dog nestled in a soft bun, smothered in a savory meat sauce, and topped with yellow mustard and chopped onions. Yum!
(@madeindetroit1991)Buckeyes, Ohio
Named after the nut from the state’s official tree, these treats are made from a smooth, creamy peanut butter mixture dipped in chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter exposed.
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, Indiana
The pork tenderloin sandwich is something of an Indiana institution. This simple yet satisfying dish features a breaded and fried pork cutlet. It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and utterly delicious.
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]]>The post 3 Great Reasons to Visit Louisiana, USA appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Rich Cultural Heritage
Louisiana is a melting pot of cultures, shaped by centuries of history and tradition. Explore the colorful streets of New Orleans, where jazz music fills the air, historic architecture lines the avenues, and lively festivals celebrate the city’s unique heritage. Discover the Creole and Cajun influences that permeate the state’s cuisine, music, and art, from spicy gumbo and jambalaya to soulful zydeco rhythms and vibrant Mardi Gras celebrations.
Scenic Beauty
Louisiana’s diverse landscapes offer a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Journey through the scenic bayous and swamps of the Atchafalaya Basin, home to abundant wildlife, including alligators, herons, and bald eagles. Explore the tranquil beaches and barrier islands along the Gulf Coast, where you can swim, fish, and relax in the warm southern sun. For a taste of adventure, embark on a thrilling airboat ride through the marshes or paddle along scenic waterways in a kayak or canoe.
Culinary Delights
Louisiana’s reputation as a food lover’s paradise is well-deserved, with its bold flavors, fresh seafood, and indulgent dishes that tantalize the taste buds. Sample classic Creole and Cajun fare at iconic restaurants like Commander’s Palace and Cochon, where chefs blend traditional ingredients with modern techniques to create unforgettable dining experiences. Savor freshly shucked oysters on the half shell, savory po’boys stuffed with fried seafood, and decadent beignets dusted with powdered sugar, all washed down with a refreshing glass of sweet tea or a zesty hurricane cocktail.
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]]>The post Cambodia’s Mystical Temples and History appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Angkor Wat
The journey into Cambodia’s mystical past invariably begins with Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. This temple complex, originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, later became a Buddhist site. As you wander through its vast corridors and courtyards, the intricate bas-reliefs and towering spires narrate stories of mythology and history.
Ta Prohm
Ta Prohm, another must-visit, is famous for the giant banyan trees entwined with its ruins. This temple brings a sense of adventure, resembling a scene straight out of an Indiana Jones movie.
Venture beyond Angkor to explore lesser-known but equally fascinating temples like Banteay Srei, renowned for its intricate carvings in pink sandstone, and Preah Vihear, perched on a cliff with stunning views.
Bayon Temple
Nearby lies the Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom, known for its serene stone faces gazing in all directions, symbolizing the omnipresence of the king. This temple’s unique architectural style and the enigmatic smiles of its stone faces leave a lasting impression.
Each temple in Cambodia tells a tale of a civilization that once flourished and now whispers its secrets to those who visit. Exploring these mystical sites is not just a journey through ancient ruins, but a step back in time, offering insights into the spiritual and cultural heart of Cambodia.
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]]>The post The Camino de Santiago in Spain is a Spiritual & Physical Journey appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The most popular route, the Camino Francés, stretches about 780 km from St. Jean Pied de Port in France to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. However, there are various paths, each with its own unique scenery and charm. As you walk through picturesque villages, lush forests, and rolling hills, you’re not just traversing across Spain but also through history.
What makes the Camino de Santiago so special is its blend of physical challenge and spiritual enrichment. Many embark on this journey for reflection, healing, or a sense of achievement. Along the way, camaraderie forms among the pilgrims, creating a sense of community bound by shared experience.
Each step on the Camino is a step towards self-discovery. The journey allows you to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with nature and spirituality. Whether you’re seeking solace, adventure, or personal growth, the Camino offers a unique experience that resonates deeply with all who walk its path.
By the time you reach Santiago, with the cathedral’s spires in sight, you realize the journey has transformed you. The Camino de Santiago is more than a pilgrimage; it’s a life-changing adventure, a testament to the power of walking, and a journey that stays with you long after your feet have stopped moving.
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]]>The post Here’s What You’ll Learn When You Visit A Traditional Dutch Village: Exploring Giethoorn appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The Importance of Waterways in Dutch Culture
One of the most striking features of Giethoorn is its extensive network of canals. The village is virtually car-free, with most transportation occurring by water. Exploring Giethoorn, you’ll learn about the historical significance of these waterways in Dutch culture.
Traditional Dutch Architecture and Lifestyle
Giethoorn is a living showcase of traditional Dutch architecture. The thatched-roof cottages, some dating back to the 18th century, are a glimpse into historical Dutch rural life. As you wander through the village, you’ll notice the meticulous care with which these homes are maintained, reflecting the pride the residents take in their heritage.
The Local Cuisine
No cultural experience is complete without exploring the local cuisine. In Giethoorn, you’ll have the opportunity to taste traditional Dutch dishes. From hearty stamppot (a mashed potato dish) to sweet stroopwafels, the food in Giethoorn is as much a part of the experience as the scenery.
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]]>The post Three UK Towns For A Romantic Getaway appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Bath, Somerset
The city of Bath boasts some seriously beautiful architecture, so you can spend at least a day just wandering around the charming streets. Don’t forget to allow time for one of the amazing spa treatments at the Bath spa, and definitely book into one of the stunning independent restaurants in the city centre.
Buxton, Derbyshire
Another old spa town, this charming settlement is nestled in the Derbyshire hills. You can expect some great cuisine (check out the Chakra Lounge on the high street for British classics with an Indian twist), some bracing walks up the steep hills and some great shopping opportunities in the town centre.
Totnes, Devon
This beautiful town has a wealth of food options, so if you and your beau enjoy eating well, this is the place to come. There is also a stunning river walk, plenty of gorgeous independent shops and the stunning south Devon coast is only a half hour drive away if you come with a car.
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]]>The post Best Places To Visit For Natural Hot Springs appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Blue Lagoon, Iceland
The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most famous attractions. The milky-blue water, rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, is known for its healing properties, particularly for skin conditions. Surrounded by snow and ice, bathing in the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon is a surreal and incredibly relaxing experience.
Pamukkale, Turkey
Pamukkale, meaning “cotton castle” in Turkish, is a stunning natural wonder. These terraces have been created over millennia as flowing water from the hot springs lost carbon dioxide and left deposits of limestone. The thermal waters have been used since Roman times for their therapeutic properties and are still just as popular today.
Glenwood Springs, Colorado
A bit closer to home, Glenwood Springs is actually the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. The Ute Indians called it “Yampah,” meaning “big medicine” because of its therapeutic qualities. The mineral-rich waters are perfect for a relaxing soak, and the facility includes a spa, a lodge, and a range of amenities.
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]]>The post Meet The Fairy-Tale Castles of Bavaria, Germany appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Each of these castles tells a story of Bavaria’s past – from medieval times to the Romantic era. Exploring these castles offers a glimpse into the fairy-tale world of Bavarian royalty and the rich cultural heritage of Germany. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good fairy tale, the castles of Bavaria are sure to enchant and inspire.
Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle, is perhaps the most iconic. Perched on a rugged hill near Füssen, it was built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 19th century. With its soaring turrets and Romanesque style, Neuschwanstein is a dreamlike vision straight out of a storybook. Its interiors, equally splendid, feature ornate frescoes and opulent furnishings.
Nymphenburg Palace
Not far from Munich, the Nymphenburg Palace presents a different kind of elegance. Once a summer residence for Bavarian rulers, this Baroque palace is surrounded by expansive gardens and intricate waterways. The Amalienburg, a hunting lodge within the grounds, is a masterpiece of Rococo art.
Hohenschwangau Castle
Hohenschwangau Castle, near Neuschwanstein, is another gem. This castle, where King Ludwig II spent his childhood, overlooks the Alpsee and Schwansee lakes, offering breathtaking views.
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]]>The post 3 of the Best Wild Swimming Spots Around Cornwall, UK appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>St Ives, Cornwall
The town of St Ives boasts three separate, sheltered beaches. Easily accessible from the town, you will find people in the waves here year round, although in winter wet suits are advised. The best thing about swimming here is the proximity to some great cafes and restaurants, so you can refuel after your dip.
Coverack Cove
This small, sheltered bay stays shallow for ages, so it’s a great place to swim with kids or those who feel less confident in the water. The water can get a little choppy when the wind is up, so bear this in mind before setting out.
Bedruthan Steps
This beautiful beach is visited by many people each year, who are wanting to swim in these stunning waters. Take care of tide times and make sure you check these before you go, as the water comes far up the beach and can cut off some access points.
(@explorewithsimone)Cornwall has some seriously special coastline and is the perfect destination for anyone interested in wild swimming in the UK.
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]]>The post How to Take Passport Photos You’ll Actually Like appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Flattering Your Features
You don’t have to go full glam to look good in your passport photo. While you can certainly wear some makeup (especially if you plan to wear makeup while traveling), anything too bold is generally not recommended. Red lips and false eyelashes, for example, can drastically alter the way a person looks, making it difficult for airport security to confirm that their identity matches the one on their passport. Instead, choose a natural look that highlights your features without camouflaging them.
How to Dress
As clothing is largely not visible in passport photos, there aren’t a lot of rules about what is and is not allowed, so you can essentially wear anything that you feel comfortable in. The only exception is uniforms, which can only be worn by diplomats or flight crew members with special approval. While not explicitly forbidden, we also recommend steering clear of white clothing, as it can blend in with the background and leave you with a photo of a floating head. Hats and head coverings are also forbidden unless they’re for religious or medical reasons.
Getting the Right Facial Expression
Capturing a facial expression that you’re happy with can take a bit of practice, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. Smiling with teeth is technically allowed in the United States, but cheesy grins can make it difficult for facial recognition software to confirm the identities of those traveling with biometric passports. Ultimately, you’re better off with a pleasant, yet neutral expression. Practice in front of a mirror by thinking about something that makes you smile softly until you land on a look that you’re happy with.
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