An idea is born

The sun was shining through the black Dutch clouds. We were leisurely having our Saturday breakfast together. Four girls chilling and laughing over cups of steamy cappuccinos and plates filled with yummy chocolate pancakes.

Then, an adventurous idea dawned on us. Why not making the most of this sunny day (really rare in the Netherlands; the sun here is like the unicorns – everybody talks about it, but almost never sees it)?

We didn`t need much convincing. In five minutes, you could see us – four radiant girls who have mounted their old-fashioned omma fiets (Dutch granny bikes), firmly determined to drive them all the way from Groningen to the North Sea (30km).

IMAGE: Kalina Tekelieva (the fourth girl)

Our end destination was the seal center in Pieterburen– the largest seal rescue and rehabilitation sanctuary in the Netherlands, where injured and orphaned seals are rehabilitated and released back into the wild. Why going there? Because seals are cute. And what kind of person can resist seals anyway?

Adventure on two wheels

3,2,1…and our little biking adventure was off for a flying start. The sun was shining for two hours straight (wow) and we kept on riding across the bike lanes crossing the endless green Dutch meadows. From time to time, some roaming cows or a windmill showed up to liven up the monotonous landscape.

IMAGE: Kalina Tekelieva

Our first and only stop was at a hipster camping by the canals. It was a pleasure to eat our hummus and cheese sandwiches on a sunny meadow hidden behind a tiny forest. After devouring our food along with a cup of strong coffee, we felt the juices flowing again. A few jokes about how our butts hurt and we were off to continue our ride.

As you may expect in the Netherlands, the sun disappeared from the horizon. Instead, it was replaced by a ferocious wind (riding in a tiny sleeveless T-shirt didn`t look so cool anymore). But we are not quitters, so we continued riding against the wind and managed to reach Pieterburen.

To Pieterburen and back

Playing with the seals is fun. But you should never ever do it, as we were told! Turns out that these adorable creatures are savage beasts that can bite your fingers. Luckily, no one lost a finger and we even got a bonus tour around and got introduced to each and every seal.

IMAGE: Kalina Tekelieva

Each seal had a name and a story. Tommy, for example, was sick and recovering in the sanctuary. Jenny was found injured and helplessly lying on the seashore. Both of them will be released back into the wild once they feel better. What a wonderful thought: it`s never too late for a new beginning!

IMAGE: Kalina Tekelieva

It was getting darker and colder. Our plan was to take the bus back to Groningen and pay extra for the bikes. Freezing in our T-shirts, we were impatiently waiting for it to arrive. When it did, we got a nasty surprise: bikes were not allowed! Switching to plan B, we rolled our (short) sleeves up and rode 30 km in the fierce wind and freezing temperatures.

Lessons learned

You might be wondering: did you learn something from your bike trip to Pieerburen? Yes, we did:

• Lesson 1: Never go on a biking trip in the Netherlands without a jacket!
• Lesson 2: Bikes are not allowed in buses and Dutch drivers make no exceptions even for a group of freezing girls. So, plan your trip carefully, having that in mind.
• Lesson 3: Life`s better with friends. And a little adventure won`t hurt. Riding long distances in the cold is bearable if you talk about the meaning of life and play associations and mystery-solving games.

IMAGE: Kalina Tekelieva

All this thigs up… plays the role of rehabilitation 🙂 of the soul.

 Over to you

Why not embarking on an adventurous journey? What could possibly go wrong? And don`t forget to share your fun experiences in the comments down below!

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Beyond the pristine beaches and the small baroque streets, Malta offers a true taste of Mediterranean cuisine, with a pinch of Arabic and British influences.The vibrant restaurant scene presents a chance to try a mix of local favorites, Arabic exotic, and Italian and French delicacies. Here`s a quick list that will get your gastronomic trip started:

Maltese Rabbit

While in Malta, you must try the traditional rabbit stew – Stuffat tal-fenek. Islanders` love rabbit meat and like to cook it slowly, bringing its rich flavors.

This is the main dish usually eaten to mark a special occasion. If you wish to celebrate like a local, definitely try some rabbit – it could be stewed, fried with garlic or served in the form of pie.

The options are endless and found in most Maltese restaurants. Some of the best places to try a rabbit are La Pira and Caffe Cordina in the picturesque capital Valletta, Il-Merill in the seaside resort Sliema, as well as the family-run Zozi Bar & Restaurant in the lovely village Mellieha.

Tip: The rabbit stew is often served with seasoned vegetables like peas, carrots, tomato paste, and garlic. If you happen to dislike any of the ingredients (although it’s hard to hate peas!), look for recipe twists that are available in most places.

Seafood pleasures

Malta is an island, so it’s a shame to miss on the wide variety of fresh seafood available. The most preferred fish is lampuka (dolphin fish), normally consumed baked with tomatoes, onions, spinach, black olives and walnuts in the form of a lampuki pie, or tarta tal-lampuki. Most restaurants offer a wide selection of dishes containing fish and seafood. You can enjoy the varieties of pasta, or full your belly with seafood drowned in tasty Maltese wine and liquor.

For full authenticity, try seafood in Marsaxlokk, a beautiful port town in southeast Malta, or the less touristy resort Marsaskala.

Tip: The portions offered at most places are incredibly large by my standards (with around half a kilo food in a single plate). Order your meal with that in mind, so that food and money are not wasted.

Take a Pastizzi Bite

Malta’s national snack, pastizzi, is an absolute must-try. Stuffed with peas and spices, or ricotta cheese, these little triangular pastry bites are usually eaten between meals.

Most towns have their small fast-food outlets named pastizzerias, where pastizzi is normally freshly made on the premises. One of the most popular among them is Crystal Palace that is located in the historical and naturally impressive town of Rabat. Yet, the famous Maltese snack can be found literally everywhere on the island – from the capital Valletta to the smallest village.

Tip: The cheese lovers can enjoy the pastizzi twists with ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. It`s a little bite of heaven!

It’s your turn to enjoy Malta!

This short culinary trip to Malta is coming to an end (for now – Malta we`ll be back!). In the meantime, we challenge you to try some tasty Maltese food and share your photos with us. You can thank us later!

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Rotterdam`s Markthal is the first covered Dutch market offering its visitors an explosion of tastes, the likes of which they have never experienced.

Impressive architecture

The horse-shaped €175m building by the Dutch MVRDV architects, opened in 2014 to create an iconic market, combining extraordinary architecture with fresh food coming from 176 different nationalities. Beneath the colorful roof known as Rotterdam`s very own Sistine Chapel, food lovers can choose between 96 unique stalls and 20 shops and restaurants.

Taste the world (Dutch cheese included)

Enjoy the taste of Surinamese spicy sausages` rolls, Amy`s organic frozen yogurts or the numerous variations of authentic Dutch Gouda cheese. The latter is typically made from pasteurized or raw cow`s milk and celebrated for its rich, unique flavor and smooth texture. Visitors can taste for free a whole range of young and aged Goudas, plain or with added herbs, nuts, and seasonings. For a cozy evening, what could beat slices of Gouda cheese paired with rich-flavored beer or a fruity wine?

Alternatively, visit one of the butchers and treat yourself with a leg of Jamon Iberico. This might as well be the perfect present for your granny.

Dutch delights

And don`t forget to buy some of the world`s best cookies that were invented by the Dutch – stroopwafels. Imagine two waffles filled with a layer of caramel-like syrup. Now put them on top of your mug filled with warm coffee or tea. When the steam heats the cookie, the caramel melts and you get the tastiest cookie you have ever tried.

While cheese and waffles are some of the most traditional Dutch food pleasures, we are missing on another Dutch favorite – fresh fish. Try a wide range of delicious fish meals, snacks, and salads. Don`t miss on the local favorite – kibbeling (fried cod) that is normally dipped in a fresh garlic sauce.
But enough talking, it`s time for tasting! The Markthal market is open daily. Why don`t you book a yummy trip to Rotterdam and share your awesome pictures with us?

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Stroll around Nyhavn

Nyhavn or the new harbor is Copenhagen`s most popular spot, which is absolutely free to visit. Go for a leisurely stroll around and marvel at the tall ships and picturesque houses. Don`t miss on house number 20, where famous Danish author Hans Christian Andersen was living in 1835 when he published his first volume of fairy tales.

For a cheap and lip-smacking meal, grab some high-quality Danish beer and the beloved local snack – pølsebrød (the local hot-dog). Do as the Danes do – sit by the canal and enjoy your food while overlooking the sparkling water. Thus, you`ll get a bonus for immersing yourself into Danish culture. Plus, restaurants in the area are quite overpriced.

 
Experience Danish art and design

Copenhagen can rival Milan and Paris as far as art and design are concerned. The Danish capital is a can`t miss destination for design and art geeks from all over the world. Boasting stylish visuals in the form of art, furniture, and lightning, Copenhagen owns a unique art spirit. It is hard to ignore the charming simplicity that streams from the city`s street art, galleries, and museums.

Want to know the best part? Many of the Danish cultural attractions are absolutely free of charge.

Start with the Danish Museum of Art and Design. Normally, it costs 10 euro, but on Sundays the entry is free. If you are passionate about contemporary art, check out Nikolaj Kunsthal, the National Gallery of Denmark, and Kunsthal Charlottenborg. Another museum, which is worth visiting is the National Museum of Denmark. where you can learn about the excitingly ferocious Viking times.

Extra Tip: Note that each museum has a free entry in different days of the week, so be sure to check it in advance.

The green escape

The bond with nature is deeply rooted in Scandinavian culture and architecture. And Copenhagen is no exception. It is visible all around Scandinavian cities, where green spaces are worshiped by the locals.

Therefore, an authentic Scandinavian experience would include a visit to one of the numerous green parks and gardens that also happen to be free of charge. Enter the Botanical Garden that is perhaps the most impressive among them. It is also a nice option for a cold and rainy day with its glasshouses, where you can see an exhibition of more than 13,000 species. Make a quick online tour before you go:

Bike your way around

Another ultimately Danish thing to do is to bike around the streets of Copenhagen. The cycling infrastructure is top-notch, so exploring the city on a bike is safe, fun, and cheap.
It is possible to borrow a bike for a deposit of 20 kr that will be returned once you have finished your biking tour. Free bikes are available around the city from May to October and may be returned to any of the free rentals around the city.

Extra Tip: Note that biking without lights at night is illegal. Buy lights in advance, if you plan to bike at night.

Free up in Christiania

The Freetown of Copenhagen, Christiania, is a unique and controversial place you need to experience first-hand.

Christiania is a collectively controlled village, where settlers build their own houses and pay no taxes.
Most tourists are attracted by the chilled-out vibes, the fascinating architecture, and the fact that pots and hash are allowed within Christiania`s area.
But it is also important to know that Christiania differs from the rest of Copenhagen – it may be rough and violent. Follow the rules introduced by the locals in order to avoid unnecessary problems. For example, visitors are not allowed to take pictures, run and talk on the phone. Sounds strange? Christiania happens to be a strange place, and maybe that`s the secret to its charm.

Whether you like marveling at design and art, chilling in parks, or discovering extraordinary city spots, Copenhagen won`t disappoint you. And most of these activities are completely free of charge. Book a low-cost flight and free some time for your budget trip to Copenhagen.

For more tips see: 30 incredible things to do in Copenhagen.

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A dessert with a rich history

Doing justice to its name, this dessert is most typical for Catalonia, where it is known as crema cremada or burnt cream. Dating back to the fourteenth century, it is documented in the Catalan literature as one of the oldest desserts in Europe. Crema Catalana is traditionally served on the day of St. Joseph (Father`s Day) that is on March 19.

However, even on a normal day, tourists and locals alike can satisfy their sweet cravings with a delicious serve of the authentic Crema Catalana. It is a perfect ending to a hearty Spanish lunch and combines perfectly with a cup of strong, black coffee.

An authentic Spanish treat

After a long stroll around the streets of Barcelona (or any other beautiful Spanish city), you often find yourself seated at a nice restaurant luring visitors with its heavenly smells (at least that`s my personal experience).

On the menu is a wide range of desserts, but everyone is ordering just one thing – Crema Catalana. And there is a reason for this. Tasting a bit like its French counterpart creme brûlée, the Catalan cream has a distinctive flavor of cinnamon and lemon peel. Slightly crunchy and surprisingly light- tasting, it melts in your mouth, making your day a bit brighter.

So, are you having a dessert today? Choose wisely, because you might miss on the greatest indulgence your senses have ever experienced!

The post Spain`s Sweet Delight: Crema Catalana appeared first on 203Challenges.

Beetle burger, anyone?

At first glance, it is a yummy burger, comprising of fluffy white bread and meatballs spiced with oregano and chili. But the meatballs are somewhat different, tasting just like…a bug?

Eating a protein-rich mealworm sandwich is now possible in Switzerland`s second-largest supermarket chain Coop. If you are ready for an extraordinary food adventure, just have a bite. You might fall in love with the mild taste that gets a nutty touch when roasted, as the insect-eating experts advise.

“These products are perfectly suited for those who want to learn about the culinary diversity of insects.”, commented Coop procurement manager Silvio Baselgia as quoted by Bloomberg.

Mealworms are not the only ones on the menu, though. Switzerland may soon offer you a chance to try a burger with crickets or even grasshoppers. Swiss food safety laws were changed in May 2017 to allow the sale of foods containing these insects.

Nevertheless, the bugs must be bred under supervision for four generations before they can be sold in stores, according to the Swiss law.

Bug eating: a cherished tradition

If you are still skeptical about eating a meatball made of disgustingly looking insects, you might be surprised to learn that it is a normal meal around the world.
Some traditional Latin American dishes include fire-roasted tarantulas and ants. Mexicans also like to prepare tortillas sprinkled with the popular agave worm. The insect is also put in bottles of mezcal liquor. While in Bali, you should try the local delicacy – de-winged dragonflies boiled in coconut milk with ginger and garlic.

Are you ready to trade your beef steak for a grasshopper? Your inner adventurer is challenging you. Go to Switzerland and eat your first bug burger!

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That`s how the mornings feel like in typical Bulgarian villages.

Let`s go off the beaten track and explore the traditional Bulgarian spirit that`s most visible outside of the busy streets of the country`s big cities. Here`s our top three of secret villages in the magical Rhodope mountain:

1. Sitovo

Although the village is less than 20 miles away from Plovdiv, prepare for a bumpy ride through an unpaved dusty road. Hidden in the warm embrace of the Rhodope mountain, Sitovo may be hard to reach by both foreign and local tourists who remain unaware of its charms.

But making the extra effort is worth it: from the mysterious and ancient Sitovo inscription (the left turn after Lilkovo) to its picturesque houses with stone-made roofs. Stroll around the village`s steep streets, enter the traditional church or lose yourself in the pleasant shadows of the surrounding forest.

Sitovo village, Bulgaria | © Yoana Hristova/ 203challenges

The nights are also casting a spell of their own. Have a hearty dinner with the grannies and choose a green meadow to settle. If the skies are clear, you can spend the night stargazing, while sipping some fine Bulgarian wine.

2. Ravnogor

Located at 1340 meters above sea level, the area is famous for its breathtaking sights. From the village of Ravnogor, you can climb to the scenic Bekovi rocks. Sit on a bench and enjoy the panoramic view over the waters of the dazzling Vacha Dam and the endless green slopes of the Rhodope mountain.
When back in the village, relax with a glass of ice-cold rakia (the local brandy) and the popular regional specialty patatnik (potatoes with eggs, cheese, and spices cooked on a slow fire). The cheese fans can also visit the Ravnogor dairy farm that sells traditional white cheese, butter, and cottage cheese.

3. Orcevo

Did you know that Orcevo is the highest village in Bulgaria? Located at an altitude of almost 1500 meters, the village has a permanent population of around 190 people.
Climbing enthusiasts can head to peak Veliica (1715 m) or Kavun Tepe (1710m). Both hikers and archeology lovers can consider a visit to the ancient Thracian sanctuary in the area Babyashka chuka. Alternatively, soak up the peaceful village atmosphere by breathing some fresh air, while drinking a cup of mountain tea at the village`s central square.

We challenge you…

Step outside the popular tourist destinations and explore as many far-off villages as you can (don`t miss Kovatsevitsa and Orehovo).

Orehovo village, Bulgaria @ Maria Angelova/203 Challenges

Talk with locals, sleep at family-run guest houses (some of which use direct booking systems), and enjoy the regional delicacies. In this way, you can get a feel of the countryside`s authentic spirit.

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But more often than not the happy life eludes us. The endless piles of work, the problems at home, our tight budgets, you name it…Is there a shortcut to happiness?

Get inspired

Why not get inspired by what makes people happy around the world? Last week we talked about Norway` secret to happiness that combines an open-air living philosophy and a deep bond with nature.

But let`s travel a bit south to their neighbor Denmark.

In his bestseller, The Little Book of Lykke (lykke means happiness in Danish), the Danish author, research associate, and CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, Meik Viking, presents some research-backed secrets to a happy life.

Imagine leaving work at five o`clock sharp, riding your bike back home, where you light up some candles and spend a chill evening with your family over a cup of tea and cookies. This is pretty much explaining why Danes are among the happiest people on Earth. And the Danish hygge, the local philosophy for cozy living, has gained worldwide popularity for a reason.

“Copenhagen is probably the most Lykke place in the world.”, as Maike wrote.

But as his extensive research in his role as the chief executive of the International Happiness Research Centre in Copenhagen has shown people from other countries can be ocassionally happy too.

What makes us happy?

Whether you live in Copenhagen or Bangkok, there`re some universal factors that contribute to happiness. Check them out, as listed by Maike:

#1 Togetherness

While researching what makes people happy, one thing became clear for Maike: people who do things together are generally happier.

Any examples? He spent five days observing how often people smiled outside a McDonald`s in Stuttgart. And what did he find? Those that were on their own only smiled every 36 minutes, whereas those with companions smiled every 14 minutes.

#2 Money

Anyone would agree: it`s good to have them. But it seems like they can`t buy you happiness on their own. It`s true that rich nations like Finland, Denmark, Switzerland, and Norway are topping the happiness rankings. Yet, poorer countries like Israel, Mexico, Brazil and Uruguay are also showing high levels of happiness despite their economic problems.

#3 Health

If there`s anything that`s unarguably much more important than money, it would be good health. Still, you can clearly be happy, whereas living an unhealthy life. Let`s take the example of the Danish hygge or the Swedish fika (a social coffee break) – both concepts are usually including piles of traditional desserts that are devoured in the company of others (maybe, it all boils down to togetherness and not sugar, after all?)

#4 Freedom

Surprised that the feeling of control over your life makes you happy? Freedom to do what you want with your life without any imposed restrictions contradicting with your intrinsic values can indeed help you feel happier. Can you disagree with that?

#5 Co-operation

Being nice is nice. Not only nice but helping you feel better.

Did you know that in Denmark people have a “be nice to someone hour” that takes place every morning at 9.45? Well, wouldn`t hurt to try it out tomorrow, right?

Find your own happiness

Finding happiness may be a daunting task.

Try looking inwards and see what made you smile today? Which activities and relationships gave you energy and which drained your energy?

Start journaling and noticing what you`re grateful for. It`s a good first step towards a happier life. Because you deserve it.

The post Searching for Happiness: A Little Book of Lykke appeared first on 203Challenges.

But my Norwegian friends tell me the weather is perfect for a walk. And a walk in Norway usually entails at least 15 kilometers trekking in nature. Across slippery forest paths, frosty meadows and misty mountains. As the popular Norwegian saying notes: there`s no bad weather, only bad clothing.

Friluftsliv: Norway`s love for open-living

Living in the open air is like a religion in Norway. Chilly temperatures, dark rainy days and ferocious wind are no reason to hide at home.

The passion for nature is deeply ingrained in Norwegian (and Scandinavian) culture. There`s even a concept referring to it: friluftsliv that can be literally translated as open-air living.

The term was coined in the 1850s by the famous Norwegian playwright and poet Henrik Ibsen. Friluftsliv for my thoughts is a concept that showed up in Ibsen`s poem On The Heights, telling a story of a man searching for solitude and clarity of mind in the great outdoors.

Nature as a source of energy

It`s not surprising that Norwegians cherish the great outdoors. Shaped by glacial and tectonic activities, Norway`s landscapes are harsh and dramatic. Nature is literally luring locals and travelers with its breathtaking fjords, glaciers, mountains, waterfalls, and coastlines.

The diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities. All Norwegians are born with ski on their feet, as the popular local saying claims. And it`s no exaggeration: almost every local practices cross-country skiing, trail running, dog-sledding or at least hiking.

Loving nature from an early age

Love for nature is nurtured from an early age in Norway. Did you know that locals send their children to something that is called friluftsliv barnehage?

The term refers to a kindergarten in the open space. Kids are spending the whole day outside in the frosty weather and are encouraged to play in the forest and climb trees.

Inspired by the friluftsliv?

Sounds strange and a bit too much for you? Perhaps, it is. Especially for people with different cultural backgrounds.

But if you have time to watch Netflix after work, you can schedule some time for a walk in the nearest forest. Or at least the park if that`s easier. Wouldn`t hurt to try, right? Beware though: you might lose your bad mood.

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# 1 Go on a husky/reindeer safari

Longing for an ultimate winter escape? Finland`s thick snow and slippery forest paths are calling all intrepid travelers ready to explore them.

How about discovering Finland`s unspoiled nature while on a reindeer safari? Or you would rather prefer huskies? In any way, it would be fun to have a ride. Only you and the white wilderness. The charmingly majestic Arctic region is challenging you. Accept the challenge.

# 2 Visit Santa Claus

If you are a Christmas enthusiast, definitely pay Santa a visit. I`ve heard that he is a nice and merry guy who welcomes guests from all over the world. And he happens to live in Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland. Share some milk and cookies with him and have a chat about the presents you received last year.

Also, go to Santapark`s Elf School, where you can learn all about his little helpers and become one yourself.

# 3 Dance all night at the Flow Festival

Who said Finland can be fun only in winter? The next Flow Festival will be held between the 9th-11th of August. Save the dates for various artistic experiences like old school and new music, stylish design, arts, and imaginative cuisine. It has never been easier to succumb to blissed-out festival escapism. And it`s only a short walk away from the center of Helsinki.

#4 Trek across the Urho Kekkonnen National Park

The Urho Kekkonnen National Park is perhaps the most famous among the 40 official parks offering exciting trailers for hiking enthusiasts. The park is stretching over the impressive 200 kilometers. There`s no shortage of marvelous trails to walk through the day. At night, enjoy the solitude at one of the many campsites and cozy small huts.

# 5 Go rock climbing at Korouoma canyon

The more adventurous ones can head to Korouoma canyon in Posio – a place famous for ice climbing, but also a popular rock climbing spot in the summertime. If you are not in the mood for a shot of adrenaline rush, hike across the marked trails in the area.

# 6 Paddle a SUP board in Oulu

Would rather go for more of a leisure activity? Try paddling a SUP board through the calm waters of Oulu, a 400-year-old city located in Northern Finland. Also, the region offers some beautiful waterways and islands to explore.

# 7 Go rafting across Kuusamo rivers

Kuusamo`s rivers and rapids offer some unforgettable thrills for bold travelers. Don`t miss on the rafting and paddling adventures that are available there. Alternatively, check out the Ruunaa Rapids in Lieksa that are also a great option.

# Bonus Challenge

Make the most Instagrammable picture possible while completing any of the challenges. And prepare yourself for an uncountable number of likes!

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