1
OLEMME NIIN ONNELLISIA! (WE’RE SO HAPPY!)
Ten bucks if you can guess what language that is, and why they’re so happy. Ok, well, I won’t really give away $10 for it, but, if you guessed Finnish (Finland’s language), you’d be correct! Finland, for the second year in a row, is ranked as the happiest place on Earth, followed by Denmark, Norway, Iceland and The Netherlands. You can’t tell me there isn’t something in the water up there (or should I say ice)! From CNN: “The report ranks countries on six key variables that support well-being: income, freedom, trust, healthy life expectancy, social support and generosity.” Apparently, it was actually the Finns that were the happiest, versus the immigrants who live there, but, as it turns out, the immigrants are the happiest of all immigrants!
2
THE INTERPRETATION OF DREAMS
While on the topic of polar extremes, here is a handy guide for your next last-minute trip to Antarctica. Oh, and don’t forget to interpret your Antarctic packing list, whatever that means. From Afar: “Speaking of gear…some thoughts on interpreting that packing list. Yes, you absolutely want to be warm, dry, and comfortable. But there’s no need to drop a paycheck at REI to ensure that comfort. Keep in mind that most expeditions take place in the Antarctic summer. “People think it’s going to be like winter,” Rashid says. “But it can get quite warm.” Pack for cold weather but don’t be surprised if you wind up peeling off layers at times.” No, but, seriously, this is a great starter guide if you’re ever seriously pondering an Antarctic voyage (which I always am).
3
THE HILLS ARE ALIVE
Now that we’re easing our way out of the ski, snowboard, heli-ski, base-ski (is that a thing?), snow tubing, sledding season, there’s yet another opportunity to look to our mountains for a source of adventure, thrill and fun. More specifically, I’m talking about the Alps. The Austrian Alps to be precise. And, to be even more on point: hiking the Vorarlberg region. From The Manual: “Bregenzerwald is known for its alpine cheese and hiking can offer the opportunity to explore many dairy farms. The 22 villages in the region have sought to remain true to their heritage with both traditional and contemporary architecture that creates a harmonious relationship with the surrounding environment. Some of Bregenzerwald’s peaks can be reached by cable car or serve as a launching pad for exploring the diverse landscape.” They had me at cheese.
4
LA-WHAT?
Many of you might find it surprising to add Pakistan to a must-visit list. However, it has made some significant strides lately, making the country a much safer place for travelers to visit. And, specifically, Lahore is a gem of a town with such rich history. This is the kind of place you should visit before the real throngs of tourists start to. From CNN: “The Pakistani city of Lahore is one of the Indian subcontinent’s most brilliant gems, yet it remains relatively obscure outside the country — an unexpected pleasure for travelers. With Pakistan enjoying improved security, visitors are starting to rediscover the city’s treasures. “Pakistan finally seems to be emerging from the shadows, back onto the tourist map,” says Jonny Bealby, founder of Wild Frontiers, a tour operator based in the UK and US that has been running trips to Pakistan for 20 years. “And Lahore is a major player in this transformation,” he adds. As one of the most historically rich, and culturally important cities on the whole of the subcontinent — yet without the curse of mass tourism — it represents one of the most exciting and vibrant travel destinations in the region.” I’m telling you there’s something to it!
5
IT TAKES TWO TO TANGO
Planning a little romantic trip with your SO? Why not consider Buenos Aires? Now that I think about it, I guess it sells itself when it comes to the romance, but, in case you needed some extra inspiration for that special trip you’re planning, TripSavvy has put together a list of romantic things to do in Buenos Aires: “Known as the Paris of South America, cosmopolitan Buenos Aires attracts couples in search of beauty, history, culture, fine architecture, great food, and fine wine, all at affordable prices. Love is in the air, along with the strains of tango music. Unlike in the United States, which can frown on a public display of serious affection, suddenly having the urge to kiss deeply and affectionately is welcome and normal in Buenos Aires.” And, on that note…until next week!
Thanks,
Joe Naaman
Managing Editor, Waywinds
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