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The Best Road Trip Songs You Need for Your Next Outing

Road trips are always more fun with a good list of songs. Click here to find out the best road trip songs you need to play on your next adventure.

 

The holiday season is nearly upon us. It’s a great season to take time off and travel. Whether you’re planning an epic camping trip or an adventure across the country, no trip is complete without a tracklist.

That’s why we’re putting together a list of the best road trip songs for the journey. Whether you’re cruising alone or traveling in good company, these tracks are bound to create the best karaoke/jam fest of the year.

The 10 Best Road Trip Songs for Your Next Playlist

We live in an age where we are constantly scouring royalty free music or self-proclaimed theme songs to capture our video adventures. Yet sometimes it’s better to put down the camera and just embrace the music.

This playlist fits into the latter category. It’s blend of new jams, classic tunes, and catchy ballads will appeal to more than one music-loving generation as it pulls you into the moment.

So pull out your iTunes and get ready to start downloading. These songs are worth every penny as you add them to your driving playlist!

1. Rascal Flatts’ “Life is a Highway” Will Get the Car Rolling

Nothing sets the mood as you drive onto the interstate quite like “Life is a Highway” by iconic country band Rascal Flatts. The catchy riffs and head bobbing beat couple with lyrics everybody in the car is sure to know by heart.

It’s an anthem that embraces the spirit of youth and old-school American freedom, making it the perfect opening track. By the end of this fantastic tune, you’ll be fully immersed in the thrill of a good road trip.

2. Come Out of Your Cage with The Killers’ “Mr. Brightside”

Picture it: your hand absentmindedly riding the wind outside of your window as you feel the breeze sweeping across your face. The Killers’ “Mr. Brightside” thumps loud in the speakers, reminding you of nostalgic romances of the past.

You smile at the simplicity of your youth, the words “open up my eager eyes” stirring you to embrace the road ahead.

Yes, this alternative classic is perfect for awakening those warm, old feelings while embracing the joy of future days yet to unfold.

3. Bring in the Base with Childish Gambino’s “This is America”

What modern playlist is complete without Childish Gambino?

None, that’s what.

The steady duel of hard-hitting rap lyrics against the passionate glimpses of classic soul will have you dancing while talking about this artist’s ability to challenge the state of modern society.

4. Get Your Kicks with The Rolling Stones’ “Route 66”

Just like “Life is a Highway”, The Rolling Stones’ “(Get Your Kicks On) Route 66” is a classic must-have for any driven journey. Your toes will automatically start tapping when you hear this song come on the speakers.

It’s timeless lyrics embrace the thrill of a good road trip, especially if you’re heading down America’s historic Mother Road.

5. Sink into Good Vibes with Jason Mraz’s “Have It All”

No one sparks good vibes quite like Jason Mraz. His song “Have It All” is an anthem for joy and good wishes. The track’s mantra-like lyrics and croonful vocals will have you feeling better with every verse.

Turn it up and sing every line at the top of your lungs. You’ll be loving humanity and every passing mile as you smile your way to your destination.

6. Channel Your Tough Side with Alanis Morisette’s “You Oughta Know”

Let’s be honest: we all love to channel our inner emo side and nothing says angst quite like Alanis Morisette. Her 1995 single, “You Oughta Know”, took the radio by storm with its unapologetic fire that still burns today.

Tap into it. Let the fire catch inside of you with every abrasive lyric as you remember you are a living, breathing force to be reckoned with.

7. Dig into Those Bluesy Ballads with Red Hot Chili Pepper’s “Under the Bridge”

This ballad is easily one of Red Hot Chili Pepper’s best and it’s perfect, especially if you’re driving solo. Its whispers of a tragic past are woven into the personification of the City of Angels that will have you connecting with Anthony Kiedis’ every lonely word.

What’s so great about that? Like a great movie, sad songs make us empathize in a way that reminds us of our own humanity. We like to feel, even if it’s the sad and distant reminders of someone else’s life.

Plus, it’s the Red Hot Chili Peppers. No one spices up rock music quite the way they do.

8. Jam to the Aerosmith’s Fast-Paced Classic “Walk This Way”

It’s a good thing Steven Tyler breezes through these lyrics because if you thought too much about them, you may not sing them so loud. Yet what may just be the classic band’s most well known single, “Walk This Way” is catchy in a way few songs today can rival.

Everything about this tune captures the essence of old-school rock and roll. If you have a top to roll down, this is the song you need to sing to that limitless sky above.

9. Shift Gears with Incubus’ “Drive”

Incubus: a true work of musical art born of the 90’s alternative era, they combine thought-provoking lyrics with gritty rock perfect for a long drive. This is especially true of their song, “Drive.”

The aptly named song echoes the driving theme in their lyrics, giving you a theme appropriate song to jam to and possibly some soul searching, too.

10. Make It a Rock Hard Musical with Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody”

No one put on a show like Queen. Make your trip an epic tribute to this legendary band with your own rendition of “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

We all know the lyrics and the emotion it will rip from your heart will almost convince you you’re ready for the Broadway stage. Passengers will strum their air guitar in a heartfelt guitar solo, followed by air pianos and high-pitched “Galileo”s other drivers will hear through their windows for a mile in every direction.

Planning to Travel on a Budget?

Are you looking to pair the best road trip songs with an affordable adventure that doesn’t compromise on fun? If so, hop on over to our budget travel section. We share several useful tips on how to travel the country and beyond, even on a shoestring budget.

Life is too short not to seize the moment when you can and embrace adventure. Grab a friend, plan a trip, and turn up the tunes.

“Life is a highway,” after all!

 

Packing Ninja: 10 Smart Packing Hacks To Help You Pack More In Less Time

Your travel adventures are fast-approaching. Are you running short on space and time? If so, you need these 10 smart packing hacks to pack more in less time.

 

Does the idea of packing a suitcase before taking a trip stress you out beyond belief?

You’re not the only one who feels this way! According to a study done in 2017, more than 50 percent of Americans said they would rather abstain from alcohol for a month or give up social media for a week than pack a bag for vacation.

If you fall into this category, you should consider rethinking the way you go about packing a suitcase. There are all kinds of packing hacks you can put to good use to make packing a more pleasant experience overall.

Check out 10 smart packing hacks below that will help you pack more in less time while eliminating a lot of the stress that often accompanies preparing for a trip.

1. Begin By Putting Together a Packing Checklist

The first thing you should do before you start packing a suitcase for a vacation or business trip is create a packing checklist for yourself.

Ideally, you should put this packing checklist together about a week or two before you actually start packing. It should include everything from clothes and toiletries to any out-of-the-ordinary items you might want to bring along on your trip.

People run into trouble when they pull out their suitcase and start stuffing it with random items without having a plan in mind. Before they know it, their bag is full and they don’t have half the things they actually need to bring with them when they travel.

2. Assemble Outfits You Want to Wear During Your Trip

Clothing is going to take up the majority of the space in your suitcase when you travel. So you should be strategic about how you pack it.

One of the best ways to approach packing clothes is by assembling complete outfits that you want to wear during a trip. Rather than pulling out a pile of shirts, a stack of pants, and more and throwing it in your bag, lay out each outfit you’re planning to wear.

This will help you cut down on the amount of clothing you bring on your trip. It’ll also make it easier for you to get dressed each day once you arrive at your final destination.

3. Roll Clothes Rather Than Folding Them Prior to Packing Them

People who travel on a regular basis swear by this packing hack. They’ll tell you that rolling your clothes rather than folding them will help them to take up a lot less space.

This might not necessarily be an option for everyone. If, for instance, you have a lot of business attire that you’re taking on your trip, it might not make sense for you to roll everything up and risk wrinkling it in dramatic fashion.

But generally speaking, rolling up T-shirts, jeans, and other basic clothing items should cut down on the total amount of space that your clothes take up.

4. Limit the Numbers of Shoes in Your Luggage

Deciding which shoes to pack for a vacation can be one of the most difficult decisions people have to make. They often want to bring along everything from flip-flops and casual sneakers to dress shoes, heels, and other more formal footwear.

Your best bet is to find shoes that can serve multiple purposes. For example, there are some fashion sneakers that you could wear both for sightseeing and for a nice night out on the town.

If possible, try to limit yourself to just two or three pairs of shoes, tops. Otherwise, you stand almost no chance of fitting everything inside of your luggage neatly.

5. Stuff Socks Inside Shoes to Save Space

While shoes can take up a lot of space inside a suitcase, they can also offer you a simple storage solution. You can place things inside of your shoes to conserve space.

Slip a bunch of pairs of socks into your shoes the next time you’re packing for a trip. It’ll cut down on the amount of space your socks take up and help keep your shoes intact throughout the duration of your travels.

6. Steer Clear of Bringing Too Many “Extra” Clothes

Most people will throw some “extra” clothing into their luggage when packing, just in case. They’ll pack extra socks, extra underwear, and an extra shirt or two.

This isn’t the worst idea in the world, but you should be mindful of how many “extras” you’re packing. It’s easy to get carried away and end up with way more clothes than you could ever need.

7. Create a Toiletries Bag Specifically for Travel

Do you have a toiletries bag that is dedicated specifically to your travels? If not, you should get one now and set it aside for travel purposes only.

The bag should include a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, makeup, and everything else you need in the bathroom when you’re away from home. Don’t touch it in between trips and you won’t have to worry about repacking a toiletries bag before every vacation.

8. Consider Using Packing Cubes to Your Advantage

No matter how diligent you are about packing efficiently for a trip, your suitcase is probably going to fall into a state of disarray the moment you open it when you reach your destination. Clothes, shoes, toiletries, and more are going to come spilling out and force you to reorganize everything.

Packing cubes can prevent this from happening. You can neatly organize everything in your packing cubes at home before placing them into your suitcase and know exactly where everything is once you arrive at your hotel later.

From basic four-piece packing cube sets found on this useful page to customized packing cube options, you can get your hands on packing cubes that’ll make life easier on you every single time you travel.

9. Bring a Laundry Bag Along for the Trip

When you’re preparing for a vacation, laundry is likely the last thing on your mind. But when you return home from vacation, it’s something you’re going to have to do.

Make it easier by bringing a laundry bag along for your trip. You can fill it with dirty clothes and keep your hotel room clean in the process.

10. Don’t Put Off Packing Until the Last Minute!

The same 2017 study that we referenced earlier found that about 65 percent of people believe packing for a trip would be less stressful if they didn’t procrastinate while doing it.

Put that theory to the test the next time you have to pack for a trip. Start early and see how much less stressed out you feel by the time it’s ready for you to go.

Keep These Packing Hacks in Mind When You Travel

There is always going to be a little bit of stress associated with traveling. But you don’t have to let it keep you down.

Utilize these packing hacks when you’re throwing your suitcase together. They should make life easier on you and ensure you don’t forget anything when you take flight.

Would you like to learn about some of the best places to visit this winter? Check out our blog about suggestions on where to go to beat the winter blues.

 

5 Smart Ways to Get TV While You’re Out on the Road

If you’re planning a long trip, you don’t have to miss your favorite TV shows or the big game while you’re gone. Here are five smart ways to get TV on the road.

 

Nothing beats traveling. But after a long day of seeing new sights and experiencing other cultures, all you want is to kick back and relax with a little TV. Whether you’re looking to tune into the big game or just want to catch up on all your favorites, experiencing TV on the road is easier than ever.

Eager to find out more? Check out these five ways to get TV even when you’re on the road.

1. Mount an Antenna to Your Vehicle

Antennas won’t provide tons of channels, but you’ll get crystal clear picture and won’t have to worry about an expensive cable package.

If you’re okay with only watching local channels, an antenna is hard to beat for the price. Most HD antennas will only run you between $20 and $50.

And set up is as easy as it gets, making it a great choice for those with an RV. As long as you have a TV with a tuner input, simply plug it into your television, adjust the antenna, and enjoy your entertainment.

2. Sign Up for an IPTV Service

If you’re not up to lugging around additional hardware, signing up for an IPTV (Internet protocol television) service is by far the best way to get TV on the go.

In terms of IPTV access, you have two types of options. The first is signing up for a streaming service.

These services, including Sling, DirecTV Now, PlayStation Vue, or Hulu with Live TV, offer both local and national channels as long as you have a stable Internet connection. You can watch on a portable smart TV, laptop, or even smartphone.

Your second option is an IPTV server. This offers far more channels and even features better picture quality, but it usually costs a bit more.

3. Sign into Your Cable Provider’s Site

If you already have a cable subscription, the hard part is done. All you have to do is sign into your cable provider’s website, and you’ll have access to tons on on-demand content.

Some providers – like Xfinity – allow live television streaming as well.

4. Download from a Streaming Service

This option won’t suffice for those who need access to live television. However, if you can wait a day or two, downloading your favorite programs from Hulu is a great way to watch TV shows or movies offline.

If you’re traveling with multiple people who each have a compatible device (phone, tablet, etc.), downloading ahead of time is also a great way to make sure everyone gets to watch what they want when they want.

5. Bring Your Cable Box

If everything else fails, consider buying a portable TV and bring your cable box. You’ll get instant access to your favorite programs as well as your DVR.

The great thing about today’s cable boxes is that most are entirely portable, so you don’t have to worry about the coaxial hookup. Just plug in and watch!

That said, if you’re using an older box, you may need to purchase a cable converter.

Get TV on the Go with These Tips

Whether you’re snorkeling in Bali or visiting Vietnam, if you can’t live without your favorite television shows, these five tips will help you access all of your favorites and get TV on the go.

Don’t forget that travel doesn’t have to be expensive. Check out our guide to traveling cheap so you can spend more money on the entertainment you love.

 

Everything’s Bigger in Texas – Including These Amazing Texas Attractions

Are you looking for fun, unique and exciting Texas attractions? If so, you’re in the right place. Keep reading to learn about where to go and what to do.

 

Everything is bigger in Texas and The Lone Star State’s tourism industry is no exception. Some 220 million visitors pass through the state on an annual basis.

Frankly, that number doesn’t surprise us.

Texas is a state known for its larger than life disposition towards most things. This includes the attractions it offers to guests.

Below, we share with you some of the most breathtaking Texas attractions you can tackle if you should ever find yourself in this great state!

1. Catch a Wave…In Austin?

If you’re familiar with Texas’ geography, you may be wondering if we typo-d when we wrote “Austin.” We didn’t.

While the Texas Gulf Coast is an obvious choice when it comes to surfing, most people are surprised to learn that Austin is a great alternative if the Gulf isn’t on your Texas itinerary.

At NLand Surf Park, you can surf in three separate riding areas that serve up a variety of waves.

This is one of our favorite Texas attractions so don’t miss it!

2. Get Your Thrills On

Love thrill rides? If so, you’re going to love Six Flags Over Texas.

Boasting tons of the best rides in the country, Six Flags Over Texas stands tall as the largest amusement park in the whole state. This awesome theme park is great for all ages and attracts millions of visitors every year!

Summertime is high season for Six Flags Over Texas and lines can get long, so plan accordingly.

3. Explore the Texas Outback

When people go to Australia, a popular activity is to go on a safari through the outback and hunt whatever is in season.

You can have that same awesome safari experience in Texas!

If you’re not opposed to going on hunts, we recommend Desert Safaris which run out of the San Antonio area and allow you to see Texas in a unique way while trying to find Aoudad Sheep.

4. The Alamo

One of the most historically significant sites in Texas is The Alamo. The Alamo was made famous during Texas’ war for independence when a small group of soldiers successfully thwarted an attack of 3,000 men from within its walls.

The Alamo is one of the most visited Texas attractions with about 2 million people paying homage to the site on a yearly basis.

5. Conquer Big Bend National Park

If you’re looking for a breathtaking nature experience in Texas, look no further than the world famous camping destination, Big Bend National Park.

At Big Bend, you’ll find thousands of plant varieties and scenic mountains that go as high as 7,800 feet above sea level.

The park is situated along the Rio Grande River so you can arrange for river trips to get an incredibly memorable view of what the park has to offer.

Wrapping Up Amazing Texas Attractions

From the staggering beauty of Big Bend Park to the jaw-dropping thrills at Six Flags Over Texas, our list above barely scratches the surface when it comes to incredible Texas attractions.

To truly experience everything the state has to offer, we recommend heading over and staying open to new experiences. If you do, we promise you that you won’t regret it.

For more awesome info on adventures in the United States and around the world, check out more of our content on Beekman Beer Garden Today!

 

Which Sidewalk Cafe Should You Choose : Your Guide on Places to Eat in Paris

When Walking the streets of Paris many of the cafes can look alike and it can be a challenge to choose. Read on to learn the best places to eat in Paris.

Are you preparing for an upcoming sojourn in Paris?

A Paris vacation often involves a lot of wandering, and for good reason. The City of Lights is highly walkable, home to infamous sidewalk cafes, quaint shops, and cobblestone alleys.

It’s also known for its delectable cuisine.

If you haven’t visited Paris yet, you may be unsure about where to entertain your inner foodie first.

In this post, we cover the best places to eat in Paris so that your French vacation can be everything you’ve dreamed of!

1. Maison Aleph

If French patisseries are on the menu, look no further than the Maison Aleph. This bakery offers visitors a host of pastries with multicultural flair.

Anything from the Maison Aleph fuses French, Middle Eastern, and European flavors. You’ll experience the genuine perfection of French pastry flakiness plus exotic flavors like mango, pistachio, cardamom, and more.

Top off any Maison Aleph pastry with savory cream and you’ll be glad you stopped by this corner patisserie. Find the Maison Aleph on Rue de la Verrerie.

2. Les Deux Moulins (The Two Windmills) Cafe

If you’re down for some serious people watching in Paris, don’t miss this sidewalk cafe when you visit.

Situated in artistic Montmartre, Les Deux Moulins is often packed full of artists and European bohemians eager to discuss the latest trends in fashion and art.

Lovers of the film “Amelie” will particularly appreciate a visit to this sidewalk cafe, as it features in several prominent scenes.

The food at this brasserie (cafe) is typical French bistro fare; drop by for a coffee or quick breakfast and linger to savor the neighborhood vibe!

3. Bistro Paul Bert

Considered to be one of France’s best bistros, Bistro Paul Bert won’t fail to disappoint. A sidewalk cafe and restaurant in one, Paul Bert changes its general menu on a daily basis, so you can always be assured of trying something new.

Paul Bert is particularly known for its peppercorn steak, so if you are a carnivore, be sure to put this sidewalk restaurant on your list. It can also be an ideal destination for seafood lovers, as it tends to offer fresh portions from the sea.

If you visit during warmer months, be sure to savor that infamous steak outside. Poised along Rue Paul Bert, this bistro will also give you a great panorama of a unique Parisian street corner.

It’s important to note that Paul Bert is well known by locals and visitors, so it may be wise to book reservations as far out in advance as possible.

4. Le Sancerre

If you find yourself in the Montmartre area of Paris after a day of wandering Sacre Coeur, stop by Le Sancerre. This is located in the neighborhood of Abbesses, what has now become bohemian central.

This is definitely the place to visit if you want to people watch while sipping an aperitif, a European pre-dinner drink.

It’s also open late, perfect for longer evenings when you feel keen for some French bistro fare, including burgers, salads, and simple pastas.

Find Le Sancerre on Rue des Archives. Want more in this area? Find a tour here.

5. Stohrer Pastry Shop

Paris is infamous for its delectable pastries. Who doesn’t dream of wandering those French streets with a warm croissant or baguette in hand?

If you’re keen to make French bakeries a part of your foodie tour, be sure to stop by Stohrer. This pastry shop is one of Paris’s oldest bakeries, dating back to 1730!

Stohrer is located on rue Montorgueil, a quaint street lined with cobbles and green trees.

You can’t go wrong with anything behind the counter. But you may want to pay special attention to their baba au rhum, a small liquor cake typically filled with cream.

6. Le Procope

If you find yourself in the idyllic St. Germain district, known for its historic congregations of intellectuals and artists, drop by Le Procope for some French fare. This should be a historic affair–Le Procope is allegedly Paris’s oldest operating establishment!

Dating back to 1686, Le Procope has hosted several prominent thinkers and artists, including Voltaire, Benjamin Franklin, and Marat. While one of your pricier options for places to eat in Paris, Le Procope will also give you a taste for history while you savor some delectable menu options.

Enjoy some lobster rigatoni, for example, or Le Procope’s Charolais steak tartar. Or simply sip on some French onion soup–in France!–or sink into some crêpes flambées au Grand Marnier.

7. Philou

Philou is one of Paris’s best-known bistros, particularly when it comes to its wine selection and ambiance. If you’re interested in a delicious, quiet evening tucked into Paris’s best corner, look no further than Philou.

Get a spot on Philou’s terrace, situated near Hôpital St. Louis and Canal St. Martin. Enjoy their classic Breton desserts or splurge on some wild game dishes (a hot item in the winter months).

And if you’re looking for a place to try some real foie gras, drop by Philou.

The more budget-conscious can still have a lovely evening at Philou, given the restaurant’s prixe fixe menu: you can easily enjoy a two-course or three-course meal for less than 45 euros.

Final Thoughts: Best Places to Eat in Paris

Paris is a spectacular destination for anyone interested in world-class cuisine, culture, and history. Yet planning your vacation to France can be daunting, especially if you want to identify the best places to eat in Paris.

Luckily, you truly can’t go wrong visiting any sidewalk cafe in Paris. But save time on review browsing by dropping by any of the cafes and restaurants mentioned in this post.

Some of these cafes may only have outdoor seating in certain seasons; others, however, are the authentic Parisian sidewalk cafe, set up for people watching and aperitif enjoying.

Visit Philou for its ambiance and fancy French cuisine. Drop by Le Procope to catch a glimpse of centuries-old history or Maison Aleph for creative interpretations of French pastries.

Here at Beekman Beer Garden, we are always in search of the world’s best cuisine, particularly craft beer. Want some more life tips about your next travel destination? Start a conversation with us now!

Everyday is Taco Tuesday: Here’s How to Make Perfect Tacos at Home

Tacos are everyone’s favorite food. If you want to know how to make killer tacos, you came to the right place! Here’s how to make perfect tacos at home.

Taco Tuesday has evolved into a force that has taken over the US. It’s so popular that Mexican is now the third most popular type of menu item.

You don’t have to go out to enjoy them, though, you can enjoy delicious tacos at home. The great thing about tacos is there are really only two rules that you need to follow.

You need to have great flavors and you need to have multiple textures. This creates a pleasant experience when you bite into the taco.

We are going to walk you through the different elements of your taco. We’ll provide you with some different options and ideas to help you get started.

The Meat

In today’s world of tacos, you have a wide choice of meats that you can choose to put in your taco. There is always the traditional beef, pork, or chicken.

Don’t stop there though, you could choose to use fish or shrimp. You can go fancy with some fresh seared tuna or lobster.

The important thing is to use high-quality meat. This is a strategy that the best chefs know and use. You can get more info here about using quality ingredients.

Be sure to season your meat before you cook it. You can go simple with just some salt and pepper to let the other flavors of the taco shine. Or you could go with a smoky chili to enhance the flavor of the meat.

Slow Cooked

This is an easy low maintenance way of prepping the meat for your tacos. Throw the meat in a slow cooker for a few hours. Then use a couple forks to shred the meat when it’s ready.

Grilled

If you plan on using steak, chicken, or even salmon then grilling is a great option. This will also add a crispy factor to the meat which will add another layer to the textures of your tacos.

Braised

If you need to make tacos for a lot of people then braising is the way to go. When going with this method your best options are brisket or pork butt.

Fried

Nothing is more delicious than frying up some fish. Go for a batter that crisps up for a good crunch when you bite into the taco.

A tempura style batter will be light but still, give you that crispy crunch. It’s also hearty enough to stand up to the other ingredients that you are piling on top of the fish.

The Tortilla

The best fillings in the world mean nothing if you don’t have a quality tortilla to put them in. A great tortilla will be warm and pliable.

If you want to go traditional, you’ll make them yourself from masa. That’s corn kernels that get soaked and ground into a dough.

You can also opt for buying some. Just make sure they aren’t old.

If they are, don’t make tacos with them. Instead turn them into chips.

The Toppings

When picking your toppings you’ll want to pick ones that compliment your meat. You want a good mix of colors, textures, and flavors.

Cheese

Most people put too much cheese on their tacos. It’s not their fault, we’ve been trained to expect a lot of cheese thanks to Tex-Mex style restaurants.

Instead of the standard shredded jack try some crumbled queso fresco. It melts great, cools the heat of the chili, and enhances the protein’s flavors.

Veggies

Use your vegetables as a way of adding texture and crunch to your tacos. Otherwise, everything else is soft, leading to a lackluster experience.

Instead of the standard shredded lettuce and greens go for something more creative. Try cabbage that is thinly sliced. You could also put some onion, pickles, or radish on there.

Whatever you choose, make sure it has the crisp crunch factor. Fresh vegetables are perfect for this.

The Sauce

The soul of the taco is in the sauce. You can make a quality salsa with ingredients you have in your fridge.

Always make sure to add some chilies, either fresh or dried. This will give you some heat and spice to your tacos.

Green Salsa

You’ll need some roasted tomatillos, lime juice, jalapenos, garlic, and onion. Blend it all up and you’re good to go.

Dark Red Ancho Salsa

Take some dried ancho peppers and let them soak until they are soft, then blend them with some roasted or raw tomatoes. Throw in some white onion and garlic to really round out the flavors.

Pico de Gallo

For a chunkier sauce chop up some white onion, tomato, cilantro, and jalapeno. Mix it up with some lime juice and oil.

Guacamole

While it isn’t a must, guacamole has become the biggest craze in the taco world. There’s a good reason too as it adds a creamy fattiness that rounds out your taco.

Keep ingredients simple, white onion, salt, cilantro, and lime juice added in. Mash it all up and you’re ready to go.

Creamy Sauces

If salsas and guac aren’t your thing, then go for a creamy sauce. Try using sour cream, mayo, or even greek yogurt.

Then mix your base with some spices or your favorite hot sauce. A favorite is sriracha mayo.

Tacos at Home

There are two basic rules that you need to follow when crafting tacos at home. You need good flavors and good textures.

You want to craft a taco that uses quality ingredients so that the flavors of the ingredients get enhanced. Then mix different ingredients together that complement each other.

Check out our blog for more great information, recipes, and advice on food.

 

Move Over Napa: How to Plan the Perfect Weekend in Santa Barbara Wine Country

If you’re looking for a wine adventure without the hassle of traveling to Napa, you’re in luck. Here’s how to plan the perfect weekend in Santa Barbara.

 

Looking for a weekend away, but tired of the typical tour through Napa Valley wine country? You need to book a weekend in Santa Barbara.

Santa Barbara is one of the many beautiful places California has to offer. It has magical weather all year round, and it’s great for tourists.

Why? For one, the city has great restaurants and wineries. There’s shopping, eclectic luxury experiences, and did we mention the wine? We need to mention it again.

Because Santa Barbara is less known for its vineyards than Napa Valley, you’ll get an amazing experience without the crowds. It’s the perfect relaxing vacation for your honeymoon, anniversary, or time with friends.

If you’re looking for a weekend away, then you need to visit Santa Barbara wine country. Keep reading for our top recommendations in the area.

The Best Things to Do for Your Weekend in Santa Barbara

There are plenty of things to do in Santa Barbara, and they don’t all have to do with wine. That said, we know you guys are alcohol aficionados, so these are our top recommendations.

1. Enjoy Breakfast at the French Press

The French Press is one of the most popular breakfast spots in downtown Santa Barbara. If you plan to hit it early in the morning, expect a line past the pastry case and down the hall.

The espresso is the kind you write home about. Each barista is well trained, so you know you’ll get a great cup of joe with your fresh baked pastry.

2. Explore the Urban Wine Trail

If you’ve pulled in and you’re not ready to hit the vineyards, don’t worry. Santa Barbara has 25 wineries on it’s Urban Wine Trail, and they’re all within walking distance.

Check out their site for special events and winery map details.

3. Travel to Denmark… We Mean Solvang

Look, world travel can be expensive (although there are cheap ways to travel). When you only have a few days to explore, you want to get the most out of it.

That’s why Solvang is a cool place to stop by in the Santa Barbara area. They have cool Danish-inspired architecture, famous pastries, and, of course, wine. It’s the perfect place to visit if you want to feel like you’re in a whole other country.

4. Take in the Breathtaking Santa Ynez Valley

Ready to hit the vineyards? Then get out to the Santa Ynez Valley.

Santa Ynez Valey is full of beautiful estates, sprawling gardens, and homegrown wineries. Stop by a few of the estates and sample their wines. Then book a dinner at First and Oak in the evening for a culinary experience.

5. Walk Through Lotusland

Lotusland is a historic estate with 37-acres and 14 distinct gardens. It’s the best place to see what kind of flora and fauna California has to offer.

The opera singer Madame Ganna Walska owned the mansion in the 1940s. She used the garden as a way to express her artistic inclinations. It’s described as an “Alice in Wonderland” garden, but you’ll have to see it for yourself.

Want More Travel Tips?

If you’re planning a trip out West, then check out our guide for the best places to visit.

You can also expand your tour of California with our guide for the Los Angeles beer crawls and San Francisco restaurants.

Don’t forget to comment and tell us how you spent your weekend in Santa Barbara.

 

The Ultimate Bucket List: How to Plan a Trip to See the 7 New Wonders of the World

Are you ready to experience the trip of a lifetime? Here’s how to plan the ultimate bucket list adventure that includes viewing the 7 New Wonders of the World

The seven wonders of the world have gone down in history as the ultimate bucket list items for travelers around the globe. It’s claimed that the Great Pyramid of Giza, Petra, the Taj Mahal, Machu Picchu, The Great Wall of China, Chichen Itza and the Colosseum were actually chosen by Greek writer Antipater of Sidon to represent the seven most remarkable sites in the world.

The good news is, if you’re looking to check this achievement off of your bucket list it may not be as difficult as you may think. A number of tours have come up with the aim to knock out all seven locations in the time period of a month. Seeing the

Seven Wonders of the World on a Budget

First, if you don’t plan on hitting the seven wonders through a tour dedicated to the task, that doesn’t mean you can’t do it yourself. Since the seven wonders are spread out around the globe, no matter where you are located things is bound to get a little pricey.

Try the following travel tips to save some money on the adventure:

  • Use affordable flight search engines like Skyscanner, momondo, or kiwi to find cheap flights
  • Find connecting flights for yourself instead of leaving
  • Buy flights in bulk for cheaper prices, the more you buy at the same time the better the rates.

The Great Pyramid of Giza

The Pyramids of Giza are often the first image that comes to mind when thinking of the seven wonders of the world. That because this location is so iconic that it’s often the first stop for many travelers.

Not only is the pyramid of Giza massive, but the construction of it still leaves many historians scratching their head. For this check mark, you’ll need to make a trip to Egypt. If you’re looking for a great tour to go on while you’re there, check out the King Tutankhamun tour for the full story.

Petra

Petra has been referred to by many as the lost city, thanks to it’s disappearing civilization in Jordan’s Rose City. For many travelers, however, it’s the cities intricate architecture and rock cut outs that lands Petra a coveted spot on the list of Seven Wonders.

Many have been unable to explain what happened to the great civilization that once dwelled here, or even how their remarkable buildings of clay and stone came to be. You can choose to explore the lost city on your own or take a more historical approach by doing the Totally Jordan tour.

The Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is by far the most iconic landmark in India, and even in the world. Built as a gift for a kings wife the towering palace stands as a symbol of love with a stunning architectural shape and site.

In fact, the full construction of the Taj Majal in Agra took over 20 years from start to finish. Its luxurious details found at every corner is what makes this spot such a bucket list item. If you choose to take a tour to the Taj Mahal we suggest signing up with the Taj Express as a tour option.

Machu Picchu

Llamas, trains, and some of the most stunning indigenous architecture in the world. There really are a number of things to love about Machu Picchu. The Inca trail to Machu Pichu can offer rich historic value and lush green scenery that can rarely beat by anywhere else in the world.

While it is entirely possible to arrange to explore Machu Picchu on your own, the best way to fully embrace the experience is by experiencing the Inca trail to Machu Picchu by train.

The Great Wall

The Great Wall of China is arguably one of the greatest architectural achievements by mankind. While it may not be true that you can see the Great Wall from space, that doesn’t mean it’s vast span isn’t incredibly impressive. Which explains why travelers from all over the world come here just to walk a small portion of it.

If you are looking for more than just a good photo opts and are hoping to take in some history of the wall during your visit, we recommend signing up for the Great Wall and Warrior tour.

Chichen Itza

Quite like the Great Pyramid of Giza, there are some major mysteries surrounding Chichen Itza, one of the greatest remains of Mayan Civilisation. Just visiting this magical location in Mexico gives us a glimpse at what vast knowledge the Mayan’s had and how technologically advanced they were in all areas of their life.

One of the most famous sits in Chichen Itza is the famous El Castillo period, known for its perfect construction and detail. It’s said that the pyramids stand at an exact degree to the center of the earth. To really grasp the greatness of this iconic spot, we suggest the Best of Yucatan tour.

The Colosseum

Just one visit to the vast Roman-era stadium is enough to make anyone feel like a gladiator. This impressive piece of historic architecture dates all the way back to AD 72 and still holds the record as the largest amphitheater in the world.

While you’ll find a number of tour guides willing to offer your services when you arrive at the Colosseum, it’s best to book your tour in advance to avoid being taken advantage of. We suggest booking the Renaissance & Riviera tour before your trip to ensure a memorable experience.

Squeezing the Best Out of Life

When it comes to major bucket list items like visiting the seven wonders of the world or even road tripping across the country, all that’s really needed is some forward planning and knowing the right tricks.

Remember, even a budget traveler can be a world traveler with the right tips and a little guidance. Be willing to do your homework ahead of time to ensure an unforgettable getaway.

 

Best Things to Do in Bali

Bali has always been one of the favorite holiday destinations for the tourists. Whether you are a honeymoon couple or an adventurist, Bali won’t disappoint you ever. If you think of Indonesia for your foreign trip, you definitely choose Bali on the top. This is the destination which is perfect for making your holiday full of excitement and fun. So, what you can do is to book Bali holiday packages and set on for the journey. Before visiting this Indonesian island, you need to know the exotic things you can do over there. Here is the list for your benefits. Have a look-

  1. Surfing at Canggu Bali

If you are fond of surfing, Bali is an amazing destination for you. And for exotic surfing experience, go to Canggu Bali. The black sand beach with a tiny coastal village, this place is amazing and perfect for surfing. There are beautiful villas for staying the tourists. The famous beaches of Canguu Bali are Batu Bolong, Berawa Beach, Echo Beach, Seseh and so on.

  1. Enjoy Parasailing at Tanjung Benoa Beach

If you are an adventurist by heart, you can enjoy the parasailing at the Tanjung Benoa Beach. You can get the most thrilling experience of parasailing on this beach. You can try tandem or single parasailing there. The interesting thing is you don’t need to have any prior experience of parasailing. There are professional guides who will help you in it so that everyone can try it once you are here.

  1. Try Your Hand at Bali’s Cooking Class

This is really amazing, especially for couples. If you are looking for activities you can do together and make your Bali trip memorable, try your hand in Bali’s cooking class and be efficient in Indonesian cooking style. You can learn to cook traditional dishes of the country, get to know about new types of herbs and spices and also unique cooking techniques over there. It is really fun.

  1. Try Snorkeling at Amed

If you are fond of water activities, you should try snorkeling at Amed. This is the fishing village where you can enjoy the beautiful nature and also go for snorkeling. The serene nature of this place is really appealing to you. The underwater experience with colorful fishes and bright coral reefs will open a new world for you.

  1. Experience the Exotic Balinese Dance

Visiting a country gets complete when you live the culture for a few days. And Balinese dance form is one of the important parts of its rich culture. Go to the Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple which is the center of the famous Bali culture where the beautiful Balinese girls perform famous Kecak Dance in the amphitheater. This is really an out of the world experience for you.

  1. Visit Ulun Danu Temple

If you want to spend some time away from the chaos and surrounded by serenity with spirituality, head towards Ulun Danu Temple. The temple was founded in the 17th century and it became the center of the Hindu-Buddhist culture and beliefs.

It is really difficult, to sum up, amazing things that you can do in Bali. You can follow the list and also look for other things to make your vacation exciting.

How to Highlight Your Greens in the Menu

The general populace is becoming more welcoming of adapting to healthy lifestyle and eating choices. Wellness experts and dieticians have been recommending the addition of leafy greens to combat the culture of trans fats in the fast food economy. A food critic will want to see variety or at least delectable green items on the menu for them to try and see how a restaurant deals with using vegetables in their meals.

Vegetables are tricky ingredients that are often underutilised with amateur restaurants serving ‘fresh’ dishes as salads blasted with seasoning to evoke flavour when there’s none. From soups to casseroles to the fan-favourite garden salad, vegetables make up the menu from the appetiser section to the deserts. If you want to make sure that you’re using your greens to their best potential, here are some tips for serving veggies.

Understanding your menu

What your customers will be seeing won’t be the images of the food or the reviews they see online. Your list can be your most versatile advertisement tool in catering to food critics. Most restaurants that want to endorse greens in their inventory have a smart tactic in addressing their menu’s layout. Some restaurants categorise the food not by its meat choices but by vegetable choice. It’s all a matter of utilising your word choice to make sure that you can grab your customers’ attention right off the bat.

Work with what’s in season

Using seasonal vegetables and fruits in your menu is a smart way of attracting adventurous eaters who are aware of the products in season. Produce in season is sold cheaper due to abundant supply. Leafy greens such as lettuce are great for buying in bulk during spring, fruit choices like watermelons and mangoes are summer’s best, while winter offers plenty of root vegetables and squashes. Keep track of where you can outsource IQF vegetable suppliers in the UK so that you can have the best quality ingredients once peak season comes for you to order.

Add vegetables to your specials

Vegetarian dishes have made their way to the mainstream and have gained the interest of non-vegetarians as well. Restaurants who are great at cooking greens have been commended by their customers who ‘don’t taste the difference’ when they have a taste of their vegetarian dishes. Though it does read as something positive, it can also be a negative in the sense that they’re not catering to develop the palate of their customers if they can hardly taste the vegetable’s taste. Contrary to your kid’s taste buds might suggest, not all vegetables taste the same, and they add a much-needed spice in dishes.

Vegetables are often relegated to garnish such as parsley and rosemary, but that’s not the full extent of their presence in cooking. Pasta is an excellent mix for vegetables with pesto and spinach as delicious ingredients to spice up the sauce and the meat included in the sauce. Greens can even be served on their own in the likes of grilled and buttered broccoli or smoked asparagus.

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