If you hate bureaucracy and inefficient processes, don’t try to get Internet in Egypt.

When I was teaching in Cairo, I lived in a nice apartment, which was set up with Wi-Fi when I arrived. Unfortunately, the Internet connection was spotty and slow, so I decided to switch to a better Internet provider that was cheaper and faster.

In the US (where I’m from), this isn’t a big deal. You just call the Internet company or go online to sign-up. Someone then comes out to your house to set it up. Or you pick up the equipment and set it up yourself.

Here’s what I had to do in Egypt:

1. Go to the office of my current Internet provider and request to cancel my service. This requires having all the proper documentation — proof you live at the address, account numbers, etc. This took multiple trips.  (It took multiple trips for me to gather all of the necessary documentation.)
2. Wait 30 days for a cancellation number. Before the account is officially closed, the Internet provider requests a cancellation number from the government. Your Internet will be disconnected immediately, but you can’t sign up with a new provider quite yet.
3. Once you have the cancellation number, you will go to the office of your new service provider and sign up for the plan you want. If you’re lucky, you will have all the necessary documentation (proof you live at the address you want service for, IDs, the correct cancellation number, etc.). I wonder if there’s an Egyptian scam where people sign other people up for Internet…
4. Wait 30 days for a confirmation number. Yes, assuming you did everything right up until this point, you will have to wait another 30 days for the company to request a government confirmation number and finally activate your internet.
5. Set up a time for your new provider to come by and set up your Internet. This part was relatively efficient, and assuming the connection works, you’ll just be happy that your two plus month ordeal is over.

Egypt is hardly the only country with a large bureaucracy. I’ve worked for the US government and I can tell you first hand there are people whose job it is to tell you “no.” For a classic example of bureaucracy in action, try going to the Department of Motor Vehicles.

The Key to Surviving a Change in Internet Providers

There’s a term you should become familiar with if you ever live in Egypt: Inshallah

It’s an Arabic phrase that means “God willing.”

At its best, the phrase evokes a sense of humility and acknowledges that people have limited control over events and circumstances.

At its worst, students use the term in reference to their homework that may or may not get done.

While I lived in Cairo, I realized that I couldn’t change the culture, or even change the way people sign up for Internet. The only thing I could control was my reaction to what I experienced.

If you travel for any extended period of time, you will encounter a ton of frustrating situations that you have no control over. Your train will break down, you will have some uncomfortable digestion issues with no western toilet in site, and you will have to deal with people who upset you.

Travel will help you master your reaction to your environment

As fun and exhilarating as traveling is, there are an infinite number of things that will make you upset and uncomfortable.  There is only one thing you control: your reaction.

Learn to embrace unpleasant experiences as an opportunity for deliberate practice. You will practice mind control on your own mind.

The best part is that your new reaction management skills will help you when you’re back home in the “real world.” Is the printer at work giving you the “PC Load Letter” error message? At least you’re not sitting on a broken down Italian train.

It is important to note that your hard won skill is not just about managing your reactions to negative events or circumstances. It also helps you appreciate the things that go right and to react appropriately.

I remember coming back to the US where the Internet worked, customer service was awesome, and everything was super convenient. I was extremely happy. Things just worked like I expected them to.

The more extreme feelings of joy will wear off as you settle into your old routines. However, as you travel more, you will find yourself drawing upon your experiences more and more whenever something goes wrong or right.

Inshallah is a fantastic expectation and reaction-management tool. If you learn to use the term as a way to maintain your sanity and enjoy yourself, you will go far.

Takeaways

1. You have limited control over your environment.
2. You have full control over your mind.
3. Travel will help you master your reaction to your environment.
4. Reaction-management skills will help you in the real world.

How has travel helped you master your reaction to your environment?

If you’re interesting in learning more about leveraging travel to develop mastery, visit the TrekDek website and sign up for the Travel as Mastery Newsletter!

If you’re looking for a place to stay take a look at our Hostels in Egypt.

Buxh Foods & Medicine Demon

When thinking about Australia, what do you think about? Barbeques, blond surfers, golden beaches and kangaroos? Of course there is all this to explore on your travels, but there is also another living Australian culture to explore, one with thousands of years of culture and forms the very fabric of the continent.

I asked Sandra Grimm from the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park in Cairns to give me some facts about the culture of the Aborigines – the original Australian’s….

Boomerang throwing

• Most people think the Aborigines live in the Outback, but they have a great diversity of culture. For example, the “Tjapukai bama” are the ‘rainforest people’.
• They have the oldest art forms and rock art in the world, with some examples dating back 25,000 years.
• They are the only people who traditionally play the didgeridoo.
• What makes the Didgeridoo special is the fact that it is made from a tree that has been naturally eaten out by termites.
• They invented the boomerang for hunting.
• Aboriginals are not just one tribe. Australia is a massive place and over 700 Aboriginal languages were spoken. For example in only a radius of 80km around Cairns there are about 8 different languages and nations.
  Just to name a few from this area: Tjapukai (Kuranda, Rainforest to coast), Kuku Yalanji, Yirrgandydji people (north Cairns), Mooridgie (west Mareeba).
• The Tjapukanydji people see themselves belonging to one of two groups: Gurrabana (the wet) and Gurraminga (the dry). These distinctions refer to the great seasonal extremes in their part of Australia. The marriage laws required that a person find a spouse from the opposite group.
• People think all Aboriginals are nomadic people. Not true – especially if they are coming from Cairns and Kuranda area. The good weather allows a lot of trading in a very small area as wet and dry land are so close to each other.

Cultural village

Find out more about the original Australians, interact with authentic members of the Tjapukanydji people and get hands on (with spear and boomerang throwing and traditional dancing) at the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park.

James Thornhill is editor of The National Student (TNS).

Dennis & spear

Paris Tourist Office

Your dream is to spend a couple days in Paris or come back to Paris but you think the city is very expensive..? Did you know that there are many free activities in the capital of France?

Follow us …
First of all we recommend you to explore the city in different ways, by foot, by bike, by underground, by bus… From Montmartre to the Champs Elysées, from Pigalle to the Marais, and Belleville to Bercy: you’ll feel the vibrant atmosphere of the Capital city.

CULTURE

1. Museums

The national museums of Paris are FREE every 1st Sunday of the month and every day for citizens of one of the 27 countries of the European Union, under 26 years old. Here are a couple of them: Musée du Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Musée national de l’Orangerie, Musée national Picasso, Centre Pompidou – Musée national d’art moderne, Musée du Quai Branly… Find the full list on the website of the visitor’s bureau: www.parisinfo.com.

2. Places of worship

Symbolic of Paris’ skyline you cannot leave the city without paying a visit to these two old ladies… The Sacré Coeur basilica of Montmartre and Notre-dame cathedral have such a unique architecture and place in the history of Paris that you will be charmed. These two treasures can be visited for free every day, all year and by everybody.

Basilique du Sacré-Coeur, Montmartre © Paris Tourist Office - Photographe Amélie Dupont

PROMENADE

3. Parks and gardens

With over 400 parks and gardens, Paris is the greenest capital in Europe… you can see all these areas by underground or by bus and enjoy an authentic moment of peace, relaxation and discovery. In the summer you will often hear music playing from a jazz band, an ethnic group or a classic orchestra. Some of the places you can stroll around are the jardin des Tuileries, jardin des plantes, jardin du Luxembourg, parc des Buttes Chaumont, parc de la Villette… More parks and information can also be found at www.parisinfo.com.

4. A walking tour of the city

Explore the city during a 3 and half hour walking tour with a guide showing you the hidden places and fun facts of Paris. The meeting point is every day at 11am and 1pm in front of the Saint-Michel fountain. More information: www.newparistours.com.

Parc Floral de Vincennes © Paris Tourist Office - Photographe Amélie Dupont

MOVE !

5. Roller in the city!

Slip on your roller blades and join the « rando-roller » a very popular tour of Paris were hundreds of participants ride around the city during 2 and a half hours. Every week it’s a different itinerary to discover the city with several stops and a long break in the middle to enjoy the friendly atmosphere!

The tour for good riders starts at 9.30pm every Friday at Montparnasse underground station, and for families or beginners it’s at 2.30pm on Sundays at Bastille underground station.

6. Rowing or canoeing?

Discover an original activity while admiring the wonders of Paris… If you enjoy outdoor activities and gentle navigation this good deal is for you! The boat club of La Villette proposes 45 minutes discovery rowing or canoeing lessons with professional instructors on the canal. Meet them Saturdays and Sundays from 9 to 12am and from 2 to 5 pm in the Parc de la Villette.

Rando Roller © Paris Tourist Office - Photographe Amélie Dupont

RELAX ON THE BANKS OF THE SEINE

7. Paris Plages

During 4 weeks every summer the banks of the Seine River become several kilometres of sandy beach!  The streets along the river are closed to all cars and transformed into a beach with sandy areas, palm trees, daybeds and tropical bars. Discover the exciting programme: live music, dance lessons, a pool, games…  It’s free and every day from mid-July to mid-August.

MEET & SHARE

8. Cinema

Every year the Parc de la Villette is invaded by cinema fans for an outdoors cinema festival. During one month, from 25 July to 26 August 2012, a giant screen is set up in the park and you can lie on the grass or rent a chair to relax and enjoy every night a different movie. Mix with the Parisians who meet here with their friends to share a picnic and watch unforgettable movies!

9. Festivals

Festival Paris Quartier d’été – 23^rd edition - From 14 July to 15 August 2012– All over the city

This art festival enhances Paris’ romantic and bucolic side, it sets sunshades and beach mats in every green and peaceful area of the city and suburbs. Discover live music, dance, and theater… all over the city.  More info and all the festivals : www.parisinfo.com/sortir-a-paris/fetes-et-festivals/

10. Dancing by the Seine

Every night from May to September when the weather is nice, the garden of the Square Tino Rossi, by the river becomes a dance platform! Salsa, rock, traditional dances, tango… all the specialties are welcome. Beginners can learn tango with professional dancers in this ideal setting every evening (at 7pm, 8pm or 9pm depending on the day). Then all the dancers step in for a great ball that lasts until midnight. Don’t miss this hot spot of the Parisian summer nights!

Location: 5th arrondissement, Square Tino Rossi/Quai Saint-Bernard (between Austerlitz train station and Institut du Monde Arabe). More information can be found here.

One time only events!

Paris Tourist Office - Photographe David Lefranc

Fête de la Musique – Music festival

Thursday 21 June – All over the city

Every year on June 21^th the city fills with music from every street corner, from local and international stars to unknown artists there is something for everyone and party everywhere!

National holiday Fireworks – 14 July

Saturday 14 July –Tour Eiffel/Trocadéro

It’s a national tradition, on France’s national holiday the 14^th July you will see fireworks everywhere but the most impressive is the one thousands of people gather for at the Eiffel tower! Don’t miss this unique and spectacular experience…

To enjoy at best your stay in the French capital drop your bags in one of the 4 hostels in Paris. They are all located near an underground station so you’ll be sure to experience the real Parisian life and the hostelling friendliness!

• Le d’Artagnan
• Jules Ferry
• Cité des Sciences
• Clichy

A modern hostel with characteristic Stayokay ambiance reopens!

Earlier this month Stayokay Egmond reopened its doors to its first new guests following a major refurbishment. The hostel has been virtually fully renovated offering 45 rooms, a bar, restaurant and 4 multi-purpose areas for parties, meetings and workshops for groups of up to 200 people! Guests can also relax in the hostel’s lounge or on its sun-drenched terraces after an exhausting day out and about exploring local attractions. The official opening of this sustainable, family-friendly hostel will be celebrated in festive style in September 2012.

Egmond hostel is located on the edge of the North Sea dunes and dates back to the 1960s. Literally thousands of guests have stayed at the hostel throughout its rich and varied history. Architect Ronno Honingh created the design that has transformed Stayokay Egmond into a modern, transparent building, while its interior design was created by designer Edward van Vliet.

Comfortable Accommodation

Stayokay Egmond is without doubt now one of Stayokay’s most aesthetically appealing hostels providing every conceivable modern amenity for a comfortable night’s stay. All forty-five rooms with a total of 188 beds have been furnished with flexible bunks, showers and toilets. The hostel also has rooms for two to six guests that are suitable for individual guests, families, groups or business travellers. A night’s accommodation starts at just €18.50 p.p. including breakfast.

Hospitable Interior

Stayokay Egmond has a clean-lined, modern interior design with a hospitable look and feel. Besides its blue-coloured accents and mix of materials, you’d almost be forgiven for thinking you can feel the wind and the sea thanks to the use of sun-, sand- and water-related elements in its design. The restaurant has been tiled with a mosaic floor pattern and warm, natural colours have been used throughout all rooms.

About Stayokay

Stayokay is a chain of twenty-seven hostels located in some of the Netherlands’ most beautiful urban, rural, woodland and waterside settings. Stayokay is a guarantee for an unforgettable stay and provides countless options for unexpected adventures and encounters. The chain welcomes both individual guests (families and backpackers) and larger groups (school classes, companies, friends/sports associations, etc.). Stayokay takes its corporate social responsibilities seriously and makes extensive use of sustainable products. Stayokay was the first hospitality chain in Europe to be awarded the EU Ecolabel – one of the highest quality awards for eco-friendly products and services in existence.

For more information:
Stayokay Egmond hostel booking details

Tel.: +31 (0)20 551 3128
E-mail: m.meijer@stayokay.com

The Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, so you can only imagine my excitement to go diving there.  I’d never dived before, only snorkeled, so I couldn’t wait to get stuck in. Excitement completely outweighed any feelings of apprehension as we boarded the boat, seeing all the equipment lined up ready for us.

Sadly, I wasn’t lucky enough to avoid an hour of miserable sea sickness, so I was relieved when we finally made it to the reef. The part of the reef was called Flynn reef, located about 6km from the continental shelf.
Sea sickness over, we were told the best way to cure it was to just get straight in to the water. There was no way I needed telling twice, I just wanted to get off the boat at that point!

Donning an all in one skin tight stinger suit to prevent us from being stung by any jellyfish, and yes before you ask, it is highly attractive, we got kitted out with weights around our middle and that all important oxygen tank. The crew were so great. They went through the safety features numerous times and then made sure we got the hang of using the equipment ourselves before diving down under.

The company I went with was called Silverswift, part of Quicksilver, but at the terminal by the marina in Cairns, there are loads of great reputable companies to go with- basically, just make sure you do it! Seriously, it’s like nothing you’ll have ever done before. If you want quick and easy access to the marina, Cairns Central YHA is the ideal choice.

The team were really great, once we’d stepped in to the water- literally; you just do a massive step off the boat- we went through all the safety measures again but this time practising them underwater.
I’d been worried about using the mouthpiece to breathe but it was actually a pleasant surprise. It wasn’t difficult to get the hang of at all, nor did it make me feel panicked. In fact, it was actually quite calming because that’s the only thing you can hear down there.

The reef is absolutely incredible- seriously, the pictures on Google images do not do it justice in the slightest! It’s not until you actually see it that you realise just how outstanding it really is. There’s even an underwater photographer to capture those moments when the fish swim by to say hello. You’d be surprised just how frequently these occur as well. We even got to touch some of them!

You can’t touch the coral for obvious reasons but I think even if they said ‘go ahead, touch it’, I’d still be too in awe to do so. You see everything up close and personal though, even little lost Nemo out in the big blue!
I can truly say that it is without a doubt the most amazing thing I have ever done in my life. What’s more, if you’re here a little while longer, you can get your PADI open water certification in just 5 short days, which I know is quite a popular thing to do out here if you’re a backpacker. After completing an introductory dive you get a certificate to acknowledge you’ve done it, and I’m not going to lie, it was a very proud moment for me.
If you’re like me and love your food, then you’ll love the lunches they provide. Diving and snorkelling works up an appetite but the boat provided us with an all you can eat hot and cold buffet and then snacks for when we were heading back to the marina as well.

Looking out at the ocean it’s insane to think that these stunning scenes of coral and coloured fish are below it. It is an entirely different world, one which I will definitely be hoping to explore again one day soon!

The purpose of EDEN is to showcase what Europe has to offer, unique destinations that, until now, have been relatively undiscovered. Across Europe, EDEN destinations give visitors a great chance to learn more about the culture and traditions of their own country.

Idrija (Author-Samo Trebižan)

Destinations compete to be awarded the destination of excellence, focusing on a different theme each year. Maša Puklavec, from the Slovenian tourist board said: “Slovenian EDEN destinations are shining examples of sustainable tourism and provide an unforgettable experience for visitors that seek inspiration and enjoyment in scenery landscapes, the luxury of various water sources and authentic local gastronomy. The EDEN initiative helps to promote emerging destinations, diversifying and upgrading the current offer, but also integrating the locals and creating a positive attitude within the destinations.”

In 2012, there will be no new selection process, but a more active promotion of already selected destinations will take place – hence, a number of promotional activities will be carried out at the level of the European Commission and the Slovenian Tourist Board. The expert committee for the selection of destinations of excellence will revisit all winning destinations, check through and advise them about further activities.  Which were these destinations?

In 2011, winning destinations were singled out for playing a key role in reviving their region, bringing sustainable development and new life to run-down cultural, historical and natural sites and acting as a catalyst for wider local regeneration. Famous for its mercury mine and lace making, Slovenia’s winner, Idrija is a fascinating destination with spectacular scenery. Picturesque mountains, pristine forests and Lake Wilde create a breath-taking landscape. Its rich cultural, natural and industrial heritage is treasured by local people proud of their history.

Castle Gewerkenegg, Idrija (Author-Jani Peter)

The competition in 2010 celebrated destinations for innovative approaches towards aquatic tourism. The River Kolpa was selected as Slovenia’s winner. The river is considered the longest Slovenian “coastline” and one of the warmest rivers in Slovenia. The river is particularly popular in the summer months, as the water`s temperature rises up to 30°C. Visitors can choose between a wide range of sports and recreational activities, such as boating, canoeing, kayaking or rafting.

In 2009, EDEN focused on tourism in protected areas. The Alpine scenery of Solčavsko offers breath-taking natural sites. The three mighty glacial valleys are the main highlight of any stay. The most visited is the Logarska dolina nature park with picturesque views of the mountain chain of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps and the spectacular waterfalls. A lot of interesting hiking trails lead visitors into the lap of the Alps. A number of old stories reveal connections between people and nature and invite you for unforgettable experiences.

In 2008, EDEN’s theme was tourism and local intangible heritage. The Soča Valley, with its rich WW1 heritage was selected as Slovenia`s first winner. Situated in the heart of the Julian Alps and in one of Europe’s oldest national parks, Triglav National Park. Slovenia’s first alpine botanical garden and snow-covered peaks provide a perfect view sloping down towards the sea. The area is famous for white water activities on the emerald Soča River.

Find out more about EDEN’s destinations in Slovenia and book any hostel in Slovenia.

Source: www.slovenia.info

Located on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, Seville is a Spanish city that is famous for its beauty and monuments. Its historic centre is one of the largest in Spain, and has an important cultural and artistic heritage, with outstanding monuments like the Cathedral, the Giralda, the Reales Alcázares and the Torre del Oro.

From Tuesday the 24th until Sunday the 29th of April, the Feria de Sevilla, also called the Feria de April, will take place, starting with the inauguration at night with the “pescaíto” (fried fish), on Monday the 23rd of April, at 12p.m., when thousands of light bulbs will be turned on, illuminating the streets of the fairground and the front of the fair, inspired this year on the main front of the Church of El Salvador, commemorating 300 years of its construction.

At the Casetas de la Feria (booths), decorated in a simple and beautiful style, you will always find Fino de Jerez, or the Manzanilla de Sanlúcar de Barrameda, ham, shrimps, dancing, Sevillanas, hand-clapping, the guitar, and also the gaita and the Rociero drum. Never, never miss “that broth from the pot”, with a splash of Fino, capable of making us feel like new. Or a cup of hot chocolate with the typical churros, before returning home at night.

At the fair you have to differentiate private from public booths. The former have restricted access to members and guests. It often helps to know someone, so as not to have any problems getting in.

However, you can also access the other many booths that are open to the public, from 12 noon until three o’clock in the morning. The private booths may close whenever they wish.

In most booths, the drinks are paid with tickets that are previously purchased at the ticket office or bar within the same booth.

And after some endless days of celebrations, the Feria ends officially on Sunday the 29th of April, at 12 o’clock at night, with a fireworks show on the Banks of the river Guadalquivir. It is definitely one of the best times to visit the city, both for its climate and the many cultural activities and festivities.

Albergue Inturjoven Sevilla

Why not stay at the hostel Inturjoven in Seville and enjoy these festivities. We have a range of accommodations to help you find the one that best suits you.

We have double, triple and quadruple bedrooms. Come with friends, there is room for everyone!

Thanks to its strategic location, next to the avenue Avda. De las Palmeras, and the exhibition center, there are many bus lines that connect the hostel with the rest of the city.

Make your bookings at Albergue Inturjoven Sevilla (Spanish or English) … We await you!

Having studied hotel management and geology back home, they’ve decided to enjoy the chill out year of a lifetime – a working holiday in Australia. Bene and Vince share the weird and wonderful parts of their trip, thus far …

Where in Germany are you from?
A little village with 200 people and 250 cows – it’s called Unterwaldhausen and the closest city is Ravensburg.

What attracted you to Australia?
The country’s versatility. The people are multicultural and the land is equally as diverse. Rainforests, deserts, beaches, islands, waterfalls and cities – Australia has it all, plus a tropical climate. Our interest in wine-making and geology also drew us to this county, which is known for gold mining and vineyards.

What research did you do before you travelled to Australia?
We bought books about the climate, animals and famous destinations. We studied and established local connections related to the sport of judo because we’re interested in the difference between Australian and the German training.

Was it easy to get a working holiday visa?
Yes. You can find the application form easily online (Department for Immigration and Citizenship – www.immi.gov.au). Filling it out takes a while; however, we found the processing time quite fast. We paid $270 AUD for 365 days.

What kind of work have you done in Australia?
We’ve done so many different jobs! At first, we drifted between farms and got into fruit-picking through “Willing Workers on Organic Farms” (www.wwoof.com.au). We’ve also worked for a gold mining company and participated in the South Australian wine harvest. We’ve been kitchen hands, security guards, judo trainers, painters, bus drivers and performed general work-for-accommodation jobs at hostels. Now, we are working for YHA as promotional models! We performed a striptease and auctioned ourselves off at the Backpacking Queensland ball – YHA was the highest bidder.

How long do you plan on staying in Australia?
We want to stay as long as possible – probably for an entire year.

What’s your Australian holiday budget?
Vince: Bene’s budget is 2500€ (he sold his car) and mine is 2300€ (I sold my motorbike). We also borrowed 4000€ from our dad.

Has it been easy to stick to your budget?
No. We’ve found Australia expensive to visit. However, this is mainly because we’ve done lots of travelling (fuel is pricy) and organised tours. If you do things off the beaten track and get creative with transport (e.g. bicycles) it isn’t as expensive.

What tips do you have for backpackers travelling to Australia?
Check out Byron Bay, Mission Beach, Noosa Heads and Cairns – they’re beautiful, chilled-out places with unique communities. But, don’t just visit the typical tourist sites. There’s a lot of secluded natural beauty to be explored, too. Surfing is a must-try in Australia, as the country is bordered by an exciting coastline and epic beaches. Whitewater rafting and kayaking are also popular activities. Meet as many Australian families as you can – they’re very friendly and helpful. Speaking English will make your travels much easier. When travelling through rural areas, watch out for poisonous animals. Bring lots of money with you and prepare to sweat – a lot!

How have you travelled around Australia?
We’ve been driving a campervan. We bought it at the start of our trip and will sell it at the end. It’s been the perfect way to get around, even on the bad roads!

Have you felt safe in Australia?
Absolutely. But, we still don’t leave our gear in our campervan if it’s going to be parked in a busy place for more than a couple of days.

How have you found the weather in Australia?
Hot and humid! But, you get use to it.

What can’t you travel without?
A phone, cash, sunglasses and sunscreen, a first aid kit, a camera, good walking shoes and flip-flops, an adapter for an Australian power point and a razor.

What has been the highlight of your trip so far?
Catching mud crabs, kayaking to Dunk Island, visiting waterfalls and natural creeks, Wet’n'Wild Water World and the Q1 Skypoint Climb on the Gold Coast, fishing, fossicking in Sapphire, gold-prospecting and sailing around the Whitsundays!

If you could live in Australia where would it be?
Bene: Buderim (Noosa Beach). Vince: Cairns.

What are Australian people like?
They are really friendly because their community is made up of people from lots of different cultural backgrounds, interest groups and lifestyles. They are also young at heart. Their attitude is, “Don`t worry, be happy,” and “What you can’t do today, you can do tomorrow.”

What’s the craziest thing that’s happened on your adventure so far?
Vince: I almost stepped on a poisonous brown snake! I also accidentally touched a dangerous stingray with my foot in the Whitsundays. Bene: We squashed a spider that was as big as a hand. Its butt exploded and millions of small eggs squirted into our faces! We screamed like little girls and got nightmares from it afterwards. One day, when it was raining, we made the long journey to the beach and lost our camera. The next morning a lady brought our camera into the hostel we were staying at – it was still working!

Which hostels have you stayed at that you would also recommend?
We’ve stayed at lots of hostels in Australia. We really liked Brisbane City YHA and Surfers Paradise YHA because they were clean and well organised. The staff were really friendly and the hostels were centrally located.

Will you visit Australia again?
If so, what will you do differently? Vince: Yes, but I will bring more money with me. Bene: Yes! Next time I will travel alone.

Where are you off to after Australia?
New Zealand and then back to Germany. We’re also keen to travel around South America and Canada in the future.

For more information visit http://www.yha.com.au/

Osthello Musica Project

If you’re interested in music then you may be interested to know that some of our hostels in Italy are involved in the Osthello Musica project, a joint venture between Italian Youth Hostels (AIG Hostels) and the Italian Department of Youth (Dipartimento della Gioventu). This partnership is to encourage young people to take more interest in music and to help develop their skills and creativity in a practical way.

Hostels are a perfect location for the Osthello project as they naturally attract young people, encourage a lively community spirit and also provide an ideal meeting place for the internationally reputable tutors who are invited to share their music and instrument knowledge with the students. So far, the music project has been rolled out to two hostels – San Sisto in Bologna and the Mario Spagnoli hostel in Perugia. At these hostels you’ll find musical clinics, seminars and recording sessions with an emphasis on people having fun, sharing their knowledge and building on their community creativity.

The Osthello Musica Project has only been live for a few months and already the hostels have seen a huge interest in people wanting to take part. The music facilities are being used daily and feedback from people staying at the hostels show they love having these music resources on their doorstep.

Following on from the success, the project has been extended to include other activities at additional Hostelling International hostels: a cinema at the Florence and Cagliari hostels; a theatre at Genova and Naples hostels; Visual arts in Matera and soon to be opened – journalism in the Trieste hostel.

Hostel Art Festival

If you would like any further information about Osthello Musica Project, how to get involved or perhaps to stay at one of the hostels, please either contact one of the hostels directly or AIG Italian Youth Hostels.

The Pere Tarrés Youth Hostel in Barcelona which is part of the network of Hostels of Catalonia (Xanascat) has recently expanded making it one of the largest capacity hostels of the city! The hostel can now accommodate up to 320 people, each room having a maximum of 8 beds and all single and double rooms offering ensuite facilities. Pere Tarrés was also the first hostel in Catalonia to obtain HI-Q certification.

The Pere Tarrés Youth Hostel is located right near FC Barcelona and is also perfectly located for visiting the main shopping malls in the city. With easy access to the metro and regular night buses, the hostel is ideal for travellers wanting to experience the amazing sights and sounds Barcelona has to offer, as well as opportunities to share these experiences with the many people who stay at this cosmopolitan hostel.

The hostel offers free internet WIFI and has a fully equipped kitchen, or if you wish, enjoy the healthy Mediterranean food and picnic service on offer. For great ideas of things to do while staying here at the Pere Tarrés, check out the many Barcelona Travel Tips as left by our hostel guests or visit our Pere Tarrés Hostel page for details of how to book this hostel.