Matador Network's Blog, page 1407
February 9, 2018
Bartender skills
After enough hours standing behind a bar, you build up a toolkit for the job. The eight skills below are just as important as knowing your drink recipes.
1. Multitasking.
In order to get a real flow going behind the bar, you have to be able to multitask. You’re taking orders while you build drinks; you’re running credit cards while pouring water for new guests; you’re having a heart-to-heart with a regular while fielding drink recommendations. It’s like directing traffic, you try your best to keep all the lanes running smoothly or else you will drive yourself into the dreaded weeds.
2. Introducing strangers at the bar with thoughtful details.
Chatting with bar regulars is usually a fun part of the job, but on nights when you are tired, grumpy, or just really busy, it can become a chore. A favorite bartender solution is to introduce your customers to each other. I’ve seen relationships and friendships come out of these connections. At the very least, most people are good for a few minutes of idle conversation which gives the bartender a much-needed breather.
3. Kicking people out in the nicest way possible.
I know closing time is a bitch. I know you want to keep the party going, but we got our own parties (beds) to go to. If we have to resort to turn the lights up, switch off the music, and yell “adios, folks,” we will, but we prefer a subtler approach. We might try a courteous last call to get the ball rolling. Sometimes we will play slightly off-putting music to subconsciously encourage the remaining guests to exit. Other times, we will dramatically extinguish all the ambiance candles. Once the busboy starts stacking chairs, folks, it’s time to head home.
4. Standing.
We are very, very good at standing.
5. Selective hearing.
Non-bartenders always ask us, “What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever overheard at the bar?” Sometimes we eavesdrop (we’re only human). If the bar is empty, it’s hard to avoid a loud conversation, but, in general, we are pros at tuning out. The majority of bar conversations consist of venting about work, venting about dating, discussing TV, or awkward first date getting-to-know-yous. As we all have a limited capacity to store mental information, most of your conversations go in one ear and out the other.
6. A good shake.
They say that the way a bartender shakes a cocktail shows how they are in bed. So, as a bartender, you want to make sure you have a good shake. It takes time to develop an effective method, but once a bartender does, they become fiercely defensive of their form.
7. Reading people.
While a helpful skill in all areas of life, the ability to read people quickly and correctly is vital to success behind the bar. Over time, you learn to glance at a customer and sense how to approach them. Is it a first date going well? Make sure to offer that second round. Old friends who haven’t seen each other in years? Give them space to chat and catch up a bit before you approach. The loner at the bar that just wants someone to ask him about his day? Ask how his day went! The loner at the bar that just wants to sit in silence and stare at his phone? Only interrupt to offer a phone charge.
8. Not putting too much stock in the opinions of others.
Some people envy the fun of the bartender lifestyle. Others respect the job and the craft. Many are convinced it’s not a “real” job. Our parents are definitely convinced that they did something wrong raising us. Everyone has their opinions about the bartending life, and they are often not flattering ones. As a professional bartender, you have to put all those opinions to the side and realize we all have our tribes. 
More like this: 10 things bartenders don't blink an eye at
Funniest Bulgarian expressions
1. Bulgarians don’t say “There’s only one way to do things”… we say “No matter how you turn, your ass is always in the back” (Както и да се въртиш, задникът ти все е отзад).
2. Bulgarians don’t say “It’s too late”… we say “You put your hood on after the rain” (След дъжд – качулка).
3. Bulgarians don’t say “He’s completely unprepared”… we say “He’s trying to beat a bear with a stick” (Взел клечка да бие мечка).
4. Bulgarians don’t say “Slow down”… we say “Petko isn’t born yet but they’re making him a hat” (Още Петко нероден, а шапката му шият).
Petko is a popular boy’s name in Bulgaria and is used to refer to a random person.
5. When Bulgarians want to tell you that you’re out of place, we’ll call you a frog: “the frog saw that the ox was getting metal hooves, so she lifted her foot, too” (Видяла жабата, че коват вола и тя вдигнала крак).
6. If you ask Bulgarians to do you a favor for free, be prepared to hear: “A hungry bear doesn’t dance” (Гладна мечка, хоро не играе).
7. Bulgarians don’t tell you “Don’t mock others”… we say “The skinny guy laughed at the guy without teeth” (Присмял се хърбел на щърбел).
8. Here’s proof that we, Bulgarians are not the most feminist of people: “Two women make a whole market” (Две жени – цял пазар).
This saying means that it only takes two women to make an immense amount of noise at home, mainly via gossiping.
9. To those suffering severe FOMO we’ll say: “You want to be the parsley of every dish” (На всяко гърне мерудия).
10. Bulgarians don’t say “You’re lazy”… we say “You eat like a bear and work like a bug” (Яде като мечка, работи като буболечка).
11. Bulgarians won’t say “Go out there and experience the world”… we say “If you sit still, you won’t witness a miracle” (Да би мирно стояло, не би чудо видяло).
12. Bulgarians don’t say “You’re exaggerating”… we’ll say “You’re making an elephant out of a fly” (От мухата прави слон).
13. Bulgarians don’t say “He’s immature”… we say “His head turned white but he never got a piece of mind” (Главата му побеля, а умът му не дойде).
14. Bulgarians don’t tell you “To know your place”… we say “Every frog should know its puddle” (Всека жаба да си знае гьола).
15. Bulgarians don’t just say “He’s worried”… we say “He’s deep in thought like a fat pig before Christmas” (Умислил се като свиня по коледа).
16. Bulgarians don’t call a man “a playboy”… we say “Women are sticking to him like flies on honey” (Лепят му се като мухи на мед).
17. Bulgarians won’t tell you “You’re taking on too much” or “You’re greedy”… we say “Don’t carry two watermelons under one arm” (Две дини под една мишница не се носят).
More like this: 12 abilities we Bulgarians have over the rest of the world
Pennsylvanian Olympic athletes
Sport: Bobsled
Hometown: Newtown
A post shared by Jamie Greubel Poser (@jamiegreubel) on Oct 8, 2017 at 5:04pm PDT
Jamie looks to improve on her bronze medal performance in Sochi in 2014. She has plenty of World Championship experience and we think she can bring the gold back to Pennsylvania!
2. John-Henry Krueger
Sport: Short track speed skating
Hometown: Pittsburgh
A post shared by John-Henry Krueger (@jhkgr) on Jul 27, 2017 at 4:59am PDT
John Henry is a favorite to win the gold medal in the short track speed skating events. He has already compiled impressive results in the US Olympic team trials, winning the men’s 500m, 1000m, 1500m, and the overall.
3. Summer Britcher
Sport: Luge
Hometown: Glen Rock
A post shared by Summer Britcher (@summerbelle) on Feb 8, 2018 at 3:48am PST
Summer has plenty of experience and won a 2012 gold medal in the youth Olympic games in the team relay. She also has World Championship experience, competing from 2015-2017. Most impressively, she has 5 individual career victories and is the all-time leader in USA luge singles’ history. Our bet is that she’ll get another victory and possibly a medal in Pyongyang!
4. Jayson Terdiman
Sport: Luge
Hometown: Berwick
A post shared by Jayson Terdiman (@jaysonterdiman) on Jan 17, 2018 at 2:18pm PST
This is the 2nd Olympic games for Jason. He will compete in the luge doubles along with teammate Matt Mortensen. He looks to improve on his 6th place finish in the team relay in Sochi.
5. Ryan Gunderson
Sport: Ice Hockey
Hometown: Bensalem
A post shared by Ryan Gunderson (@ryangunderson) on Apr 16, 2015 at 5:49pm PDT
This is the first Olympic team selection for the 5’10 defender who holds the record for most games played at the University of Vermont (148).
More like this: How to speak Pennsylvanian in 10 easy steps
February 8, 2018
Parisians enjoy uncommon snowfall
Parisians have not had the easiest of winters. Last month, heavy downpours resulted in near-catastrophic flooding up and down the Seine. Just a few weeks later, the City of Lights is facing a blizzard and the freezing temperatures that come with it. But at least some locals are making the best of this uncommon snowfall by taking pictures and doing silly things on Instagram.
For starters, Parisians want us to know that their city is just as beautiful in a snowstorm as it is any other time of the year.
A post shared by Mary Quincy (@mary_quincy) on Feb 6, 2018 at 4:52am PST
A post shared by George K (@geekay) on Feb 7, 2018 at 5:02pm PST
A post shared by QQinparis (@qqinparis) on Feb 7, 2018 at 2:49pm PST
A post shared by Emilie (@danslesyeuxdemiliie) on Feb 7, 2018 at 2:30pm PST
And that they had the perfect clothes to wear for the occasion (of course)…
A post shared by Samiya Abi Jaoude (@sasiya) on Feb 7, 2018 at 12:20pm PST
A post shared by Video – Photographer, Paris (@videoparis) on Feb 7, 2018 at 2:29pm PST
A post shared by Justine Lourenço (@justine.lourenco) on Feb 7, 2018 at 10:56am PST
A post shared by @walimbarek on Feb 7, 2018 at 11:21am PST
A post shared by Jenny García Vergara (@jennygarciavergara) on Feb 7, 2018 at 10:43am PST
A post shared by Danny Bishop (@dannybayshore) on Feb 5, 2018 at 9:18am PST
And that a little snow won’t stop them reminding us that they are the art capital of the world on every street corner.
A post shared by Stéphane Plouviez (@plouviezstephane) on Feb 7, 2018 at 6:56am PST
Apart from the spontaneous snowball fights, Parisians are finding new ways to have fun on their city’s streets.
A post shared by Oliver-Knight.com (@oliverknight) on Feb 7, 2018 at 3:19am PST
And while they do have a thing or two to learn about building proper snowmen…
A post shared by NAVIN RAJ ☝️❤️✈️ (@hrajz) on Feb 7, 2018 at 5:15pm PST
A post shared by KBL (@sundaykbl) on Feb 7, 2018 at 5:02pm PST
You gotta hand it to them for making the most out of the crappy winter they’ve been dealt this year.
A post shared by Katrina Lawrence (@theparisdreamer) on Feb 5, 2018 at 2:41am PST
More like this: 10 perfect Instagram shots of Paris
Scarification and tattooing
Celebrating battlefield heroics, tribal loyalty, and global conquests, tattoos have for much of civilization played a cultural role nearly as significant as cuisine or region. Some estimates place the first appearance of tattoos at 12,000 BC. A difficult claim to prove, but one thing is known for sure: tattoos were a part of human culture long before hipsters and the electric tattoo gun.
Around the world, tattoos look different and are applied in varying ways. Here are eight varieties that are as diverse as they are beautiful.
1. Scarification
Photo: John Atherton
Location: Burkina Faso
In tribal regions of Burkina Faso, scarification symbolizes an individual’s passage into adulthood. The scars, often marking village or tribal loyalty, are used instead of tattooing on dark skin that makes tattoos difficult to see.
2. Kalinga tattoos
Photo: Scott Sporleder
Location: Philippines
Known as a mambabatok, traditional Filipino Kalinga tattooists performed a “batok” on warriors returning from a successful battle.
Whang Od is the final living mambabatok of the Kalinga ethnicity. She has no children. Because it is believed that the skill to become a mambabatok can only be passed down to direct descendants, there is no one to learn or inherit her talent.
3. Ta Moko
Photo: Graham Crumb
Location: Maori people of New Zealand
The skin is carved by uhi, a chisel, as opposed to ink injection. These tattoos historically have served to note tribal loyalty and family lineage. In more modern cases, Ta Moko tattoos often serve to mark the significant accomplishments such as travel or note the person’s trade or career.
4. Deq
Photo: AzizKul46
Location: Turkey
Deq is a traditional tattoo style born of Kurdish women in Turkey. In the country’s southeastern region, these traditional tattoos are made with the mother of the woman’s breast milk combined with ash or soot. The belief is that the breast milk serves as a layer of permanence.
5. Dassanech scarification
Photo: Rod Waddington
Location: Ethiopia
The Dassanech tribe call Ethiopia’s Omo Valley home and continue to live largely unaffected by modern society, following their traditional customs and living off the land. Scarification on a man’s body, rubbed with ash to accentuate permanent markings, historically symbolized that he killed an enemy in battle.
6. Native American warriors
Photo: Wikipedia
Location: North America
Native Americans used tattoos to distinguish and identify tribe members. Additionally, the tattooing of Native American warriors often symbolized the glories of battle. Animal bones or the teeth of fish were used to penetrate the marking into the skin. The marking was made permanent with coal, ash, or okra and colored with natural dyes.
7. Sak Yant tattoos
Photo: Pitbull Tattoo
Location: Thailand
Another tattoo historically inked to show bravery in battle, Sak Yant tattoos in Thailand have become increasingly popular with western tourists. Tradition holds that these tattoos protect the bearer from evil while offering luck and protection. Buddhist monks dip a long needle into ink and poke repeatedly into the body, leaving permanent marks.
8. Mendhi henna tattoos
Photo: Free-Photos
Location: India
Henna leaves are inked in creative pattern, often across the hands, in a showing of happiness. These tattoos frequently signify a wedding or other major event in the life of the person, and have been used from South Asia across India and into the Middle East and Africa for hundreds of years.
More like this: Whang-Od: The last true tattoo artist
Love on the road
Falling in love on the road is one of the best outcomes of travel. From getting to know someone quickly through a spate of Delhi belly to starting a relationship through Instagram, here is a collection of stories from travelers who found their person or strengthened their relationship in unlikely places.
Photo: Lena Papadopoulos
When you travel a lot, you imagine you’ll meet your perfect match on an adventure — in another country, on a plane, hiking some random mountain in some random place — at least that’s what I imagined. After 10+ years traveling the globe, I had never come across someone that sent me into a tailspin, and I just assumed I never would. Then, unexpectedly, I did meet someone who turned my world inside out. We didn’t meet in an exotic location or on an awe-inspiring adventure; I met him in my work building, in the panhandle of Florida, when he came into my office and asked to borrow a tablecloth. It was nothing like I imagined it might be; it was better. Now, I’m doing what I love most, with the person I love most. We’re traveling the world full-time. We’ve created our own adventure. Together.
Photo: Zinara Rathnayake
I had just come to Clock Inn Colombo, a quirky, modern backpacker hostel in the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka to meet Meghna, my Indian friend. In the evening, I am introduced to Nathan. “Are you Indian?” I ask him. “Nah, Sri Lankan,” Nathan shows me a photo of his passport. And yet, I don’t believe him for the next two weeks. He has a South Indian accent. Later, we all walk four kilometers to an authentic Pakistani restaurant in Colombo.
That was how I first met Nathan, the boy I now call my soulmate.
That was July 2015, two months after Nathan came to Sri Lanka, back to his roots, his parents’ home. He was taking a break from his Master’s in Australia. He was tired of Sydney’s fast-paced life. At first, I ignored him because shamelessly speaking, I had a crush on a 23-year-old Pakistani guy (until I found out he was married with a kid). But Nathan and I bonded over our love for cricket. On my 21st birthday, he told he loved me and took me to watch a cricket match which we never really watched. I didn’t want things to move so fast as I knew he’s going to leave. He postponed his flight. He was supposed to leave in October. October became November, and November became December. He never left. As February came, he told me he was not going to go back.
And that’s how we happened. It’s now two-and-a-half years into our relationship. We now explore our little island and the world together and blog about it on NatnZin.
Photo: Sara Blair
Montenegro on Lake Skadar
When you move to the middle of the Pacific Ocean to a remote island no one has ever heard of, you aren’t exactly prepared to meet the love of your life. But alas, that is where I found myself. One week into living in the Marshall Islands, I met Nick. He was tall, muscular, and looked like a jock, and even worse, had a southern American accent, everything I wasn’t interested in. Though he was definitely good looking, and all the tattoos didn’t hurt. It only took a few conversations with him to see past all that and see how much more we had in common; wanting the same things out of life. Two countries lived in together later, and countless others visited, it’s safe to say our travel love story is going to be a pretty lengthy one by the end of it. But it is still ongoing, with no end in sight.
Photo: Penguin and Pia
Lisa and I, both living in Edinburgh at the time, began chatting after Lisa commented on one of my Instagram photos of Edinburgh Castle. A plan to go on an Edinburgh photo tour together fell through and, after months of not talking, Instagram gave us another chance. One message turned into two, two turned into Skype — and over the next few months, we fell in love talking between Europe and Canada. We were speaking every single day. This wasn’t just a travel fling.
With New Years approaching, we decided to meet in Europe. What better way to plan a “first date” than to plan a “short” (read: three week) Europe Trip together. We had never met in person before, but we locked in the flights, trains, and Airbnbs for seven countries. Everything was booked. There was no turning back. My friends called us “optimistically mad.” Lisa surprised me when I landed in Berlin by coming to the airport, and with a first hug and a kiss we set off on our adventure. We rang in the New Year in Berlin and saw the Christmas Markets in Prague. We ventured to Bratislava, day-tripped to our beloved Vienna, and explored Krakow and Warsaw. Lisa had to get ready for her final semester of school, so we returned to Copenhagen and sneaked away to Edinburgh — to explore the city that brought us together. Our first adventure together was filled with long walks through snowy Old Towns, amazing Airbnb hosts, silly Go-pro footage, and chats about our future.
Over a year later, we live together in Canada, and we are moving back to Europe soon. We’ll continue to blog about our adventures.
Photo: Lola Méndez
Lola and Julio in Pokhara, Nepal.
Tinder destroyed my life as a solo female traveler. I joined out of boredom — dating in Madrid had been seriously dull compared to NYC. I first connected with Julio in January 2016 but was never available to meet as I was constantly traveling around Europe and Morocco. After canceling six dates with him we finally met. I was instantly hooked and knew I was in trouble — this guy was going to shake things up for me whether I wanted him to, or not. I continued to travel around Europe but saw Julio any chance I could in Madrid during the week. In May 2016, I left Madrid for Florence and tried to end things with him but the first weekend he was there taking me to Bologna to eat everything my heart desired. Our international dates continued for the next year in Italy, Morocco, India, and Nepal. I never had to sacrifice my love for travel in order to make room for my love for Julio. After chasing me around the globe, Julio finally joined me on the road for good in July. We’ve since explored Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, Thailand, and Myanmar together with no intentions to stop traveling anytime soon. The moral of our love story? Don’t give up your passions for romance, eventually, you might just find a partner who shares the same dreams.
Photo: Cory Varga
Our real love story started in Japan. We are both outdoor enthusiasts and my partner knew how much I wanted to visit Japan. He especially knew I had a strong affinity towards Kyoto. So he decided to propose to me at the top of Fushimi Inari Shrine. We went there at sunset, everything was planned, but when we got to the top, he realized that there wasn’t much of a view and it was mainly a cemetery really. I could see he was disappointed but didn’t quite know why. A few days later, we took a day trip to Mount Hiei and as we ascended, we came across the most incredible view. It was cold, but you could smell the fresh pines all around us. There was nobody else around, but us, admiring the gorgeous vistas. It was there where my now-husband proposed to me. He said he couldn’t have found a better place even if he tried, as we both love our soft adventures and everything nature. It was romantic and perfect. Of course, I later found out about his original plans and I’m quite grateful it turned out this way. In a way, I don’t recommend anyone making plans for proposals on top of Fushimi. We are the living proof that it would work. Mount Hiei, on the other hand, makes the beginning of a perfect love story.
Photo: Diane Leone
Ten years ago, my husband and I took our first trip to Italy. It had been planned for a year. My mother became ill, she had cancer. As we got closer to the trip, I wasn’t sure I would be able to make it. I lost my mother three weeks before the trip. It was tough to go, I didn’t want to, but my sweet husband encouraged me to go, held me when I cried (and it was often during that holiday) and helped me enjoy the time together. We’ve been married 30 years.
Photo: Tasha Amy
It was nearly time to head off on my amazing solo adventure around Asia, yet just weeks before I was going to leave the country, something unexpected happened: a fling with a co-worker named James. Instead of planning last minute details, we were watching sunsets out of the back of his car and running away on unexpected weekend getaways.
Fast forward and I am boarding a plane to Yangon in Myanmar, my hands now hold the straps of my backpack and the only things my lips touch is my drink bottle. I explore the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda, witness the sun rising over the incredible temples in Bagan and listen to the teak creak with each footstep on U Bien Bridge. Though, even with all these fulfilling experiences, one part of me has been left in New Zealand.
Luckily for me, James felt the same and before I knew it he hands in his resignation and books a flight to meet me on Valentine’s Day at Chiang Mai. As soon as I see him I know this is what was meant to be. My solo backpacking trip quickly turned into a not-so-romantic couples adventure filled with local buses, hostels dorm rooms, and the notorious Delhi belly. We survived six months on the road with only having dated two weeks prior. It is not something I would recommend for all couples starting out, but it worked for us and now we plan to get married in the same city our forever adventure started, Chiang Mai.
More like this: 14 ways to describe love from around the world
Why live in Mexico despite violence
Three weeks ago, my partner returned home from the corner shop with an astonished look on his face — as he was paying for some cheese and tortillas, the owner pulled out a gun and announced: “Next time I’ll be prepared.” The store had been robbed the day before and, as the authorities do next to nothing to prevent such events, he decided to take matters into his own hands.
A week later, a friend’s house was burgled. As she was sharing the details of the event with me and three other friends a couple of days later, we bitterly realized that only one of us hadn’t experienced such crime.
Another week later, a group of youngsters was assaulted and threatened to be shot two blocks from my home; it was in broad daylight and they were resting in front of the local church.
These three events are just the tip of the iceberg; violent crimes are more and more common in Mexico. In fact, in 2017 more than 29,000 people were assassinated, a 27% increase compared to the year before, which made it the most violent year in the last two decades and since such statistics are being compiled.
The fact that crimes are so prevalent in my daily life led me to rethink my living in Mexico. I have spent countless nights planning a return to Europe, a place where I feel much safer, and have had endless conversations with my partner and friends about the pros and cons of living here. In the end, the many things that make this country so amazing won. Mexico has been my home for the past five years and here’s why I wouldn’t move anywhere else.
1. Delicious and cheap street food
You can’t go hungry in Mexico. Every street corner has its doña making quesadillas in the morning, a taco man with a spinning top of fresh meat to satisfy your cravings in the afternoon, and trolleys of boiling corn in the evening. And if you want something lighter, you can grab a cup of freshly-cut fruit with granola and honey at any time of the day. Delicious, fast, and cheap.
2. Fresh fruit and vegetables all year around
If you grow up in a country where winter is a big deal and the only local “fresh” fruit and vegetables are three-month-old apples and sour cabbage, you learn to appreciate the abundance of daily harvested mangos, papayas, avocados, bananas, tomatoes, and dozens of other fruits available all year long.
3. Customs and traditions
The celebration of the Day of the Dead, the Dance of Flyers, and the Dance of Parachicos are only a few of the most popular Mexican traditions. But there are hundreds of other, lesser known yet equally magnificent customs, celebrated in the intimacy of a particular village or community. Living in Mexico gives me the possibility to be part of them.
4. The easy access to education
I had zero photography knowledge when I first came to Mexico — five years later I make a living out of it, all thanks to the quality and affordability of education in this country. The variety of courses helping you acquire new skills is just amazing. Whether it’s about traditional embroidering, piñata making, salsa dancing, playing the jarana, digital marketing, Adobe programs or screenplay writing, there’s someone teaching it, and it’s really cheap or even free of charge.
5. People’s acceptance and tolerance
I have been in Mexico for so long that I don’t feel as a foreigner any longer. Sure, with my brown hair, pale skin, blue eyes and funny accent, I do stand out — nobody would ever confuse me with a “true” local. But people rarely pay attention to it and I am being treated the same as any other person here.
6. Coffee
Mexican coffee is so superb that it is the one gift I never fail to bring with me when visiting relatives in Europe.
7. Mexico City
The New York Times named it the top destination to visit in 2016 and it’s for a reason. The capital of Mexico is a place of contrasts where one can have a traditional Mexican breakfast at one of the numerous markets, admire the murals of Diego Rivera, Jose Clemente Orozco, and David Alfaro Siqueiros in the Palace of Fine Arts, enjoy pulque in a bar, discover the pre-Columbian heritage in the National Museum of Anthropology, dine in hipster Colonia Roma neighborhood, and get wild at the concert of an internationally-renowned rock star. All that in one day.
8. Beach vacation at any moment
There’s no need to wait for the summer or to fly to the other side of the globe if you want to take a short beach vacation. Mexico has thousands of miles of coast and the weather is always perfect for a swim and some sunbathing. For me, the nearest beach is a three-hour drive away and when I want to indulge, there are numerous low-cost airlines flying to Cancun daily.
9. Family reunions
Whether they’re celebrating a birthday, Independence Day, or the birth of Jesus, Mexican families gather in great number to eat, drink, laugh and dance. Family reunions are always loud and fun and you always feel part of it even if you’re not a member of the family.
More like this: 6 uncomfortable truths about living in Mexico
Save money in San Diego
San Diego is a prime example that laid-back vibes don’t necessarily mean laid-back costs. As a year-round destination, the sunshiny west coast city is notoriously pricey. But it’s beachy charm, fun-loving mood, and delicious tacos still make it worth it. You’re not cheap San Diego, and I’m not even mad.
You can still have that kicked-back, chilled-out SoCal experience without spending all of your money, you just need to know where to go — there are even hidden nooks where free exists. Here’s how to MacGyver your money while exploring the San Diego area. And yes: there will be tacos.
1. Taco Tuesday
This might be the most obvious deal to take advantage of in SoCal, and for good reason: at Mitch’s Seafood the fish tacos are so fresh you could slap them, but are so cheap you won’t. Wash it down with $1.50 Tecates and toast to your saved pennies. If you can manage to look up from your tacos, take a moment to appreciate the harbor view they came with, too.
2. Coast the coast
Head outside of the San Diego box to explore some of the northern coastal towns like Oceanside, Encinitas, and Solana Beach. By default, it’ll be a touch cheaper outside of the city, and there’s even a Coaster train that stops at various towns between SD and Oceanside. Just strolling the streets of the northern hamlets is enough to keep you entertained.
3. Throw a picnic
Instead of going to yet another restaurant, save some dough by hitting up the Wednesday farmers market in Carlsbad (3-7 PM) and then head to the beach for the sunset.
4. Swing it
Channel your inner 8-year-old and search for the secret swings in La Jolla. Word of mouth and social media have turned these elusive swings into a San Diego scavenger hunt. They’re mysterious, they’re fun… they’re swings! They appear randomly in various locations around the La Jolla area, usually overlooking the shores, but just when you think you’ve nailed down the location of one, it’s likely to have been removed. The original swings were removed by the city, but people have kept it going as a not-so-well-kept secret. Beware: they will send you on a wild goose chase, and when you do find one, your legs may not be long enough to use them. (I may or may not be speaking from experience.) They are an ever-changing fixture in the area, but even if you don’t luck out and find one, you’ll be exploring some gorgeous scenery regardless. You can find clues by searching the #secretswings hashtag on Instagram.
5. Hang in PB
Despite my deepest desires, this does not, in fact, stand for “peanut butter.” As a close second, Pacific Beach is a beachside neighborhood with happy hour deals-a-plenty. You can explore this surf ‘hood and the next door Mission Beach area for the day on beach cruisers for $15 from Cheap Rentals. Add a basket to tote your belongings for an extra $2. If you get thirsty from the biking, cruise over to Cass Street Bar and Grill.
6. Sushi Deli
Late night sushi and buckets of beer are just some of the highlights from the aptly named Sushi Delis 1-3. With (you guessed it) 3 locations, you can’t miss it. Each month there’s a featured special, and $2 Sapporo pints are all day every day. Oh, and I think the “all you can eat and drink” specials on Saturday and Sunday afternoons speaks for itself.
7. Art appreciation 101
The murals of Ocean Beach are an outdoor museum in their own right. This requires zero dollars, just walk the streets of this artsy community and check out all the murals for yourself.
8. Brunch
Hob Nob Hill has (almost) bottomless mimosa brunches for $12. Print out an old-school coupon from their website for $2 off any entrée item, and SCORE. Grandma-sized portions and an old-timey diner counter await just outside Balboa Park, a San Diego staple. Balboa Park is free, except for the museums, zoo, and certain special events.
9. Dessert
The Baked Bear will leave you drooling. For under 5 bones, customize an ice-cream sandwich with various combinations of homemade cookies, ice cream, brownies, and the kicker, doughnuts. The only requirements for this venture are a passion for sweets and pocket change.
More like this: 5 great spots to eat and drink in San Diego
Guide to Russian slang
Russian slang is a totally unique phenomenon. Not too rude, not too strong, not too hippy, not too teenage-styled, and… it has literally no exact synonyms in neutral language. Used by everyone from an infant to “God’s dandelion” (this is our informal name for cute and modest but very elderly grandmas), slang is an unremovable part of Russian culture.
Here is a mini-guide to Russian slang.
1. Руки не доходят посмотреть [ruki ne dohodyat posmotret’]
Literal translation: Hands don’t walk to have a look at something
What it means: I’m too busy for something/I don’t have time for something
If you hear that someone’s “hands don’t walk to look at it”, you’re not in a surreal world. It is a normal slang term used to say that the person is busy and doesn’t have time to have a look at something (such as a document). Part of this phrase, particularly, “руки не доходят” “hands don’t walk to” can be followed by any kind of verbs or nouns. For example:
“Извини, у меня руки не доходят до той статьи, которую ты мне прислал на исправление. Я обязательно возьмусь за неё завтра.” [Isvini, u menya ruki ne dohodyat do toi stat’i, kotoruyu ti mne prislal na ispravelenie. Ya obyazatel’no voz’mus’ za neyo zavtra]
“I’m sorry, my hands don’t walk to (= I don’t have time for) the article that you’ve sent me for correction. I promise I will start working on it tomorrow.”
2. Да нет, наверное [da net, naverno]
Literal translation: Yes no, might be
What it means: No
In Russian slang, we have a perfect phrase for reflecting an unsure “no”. It is “да нет, наверное”, which means “yes no, might be.” Please, don’t try to look for logic here — I know, it’s super weird. However, such three contradictory words are used everywhere. This phrase is slowly evolving from being used in informal conversation to being used by all.
3. Ну, давай! [nu, davai!]
Literal translation: Let’s
What it means: Bye
Informal “давай” (translated literally as “let’s”) is often used instead “до свидания” [do svidaniya] which means bye. It is a short form of “давай встретимся позже” [davai vstretimsya pozhe] “let’s meet later on” and “давай закругляться” [davai zakruglyatza] “let’s wrap up”. It is now used as a standalone farewell that usually confuses foreigners. Here’s an example:
“А, хорошо, давай!” [A, horosho, davai!]
“Ok, let’s!”
4. “Потому что” [potomu shto]
Literal translation: Because
What it means: I don’t want to answer your question
What I love about my mother-tongue Russian, as compared to English, is the possibility not to answer the question if you don’t want to through language. The word “потому что”/“because” can be used as a sufficient response to annoying questions. This magical reply is not considered rude, it is a playful (depending on your intonation, obviously) informal way of letting your friends know that you are not going to answer a question.
5. Ноги в руки и вперёд” [nogi v ruki i vperyod]
Literal translation: Take your feet in your hands and go forward
What it means: Go ahead/go faster
It’s impossible to imagine our life without this phrase. It is perfect for moments when you want to tell someone to be more efficient, to go faster, or express that someone should go ahead in straightforward yet polite manner. With this phrase, you can also give someone a friendly encouragement to hustle.
Here’s an example of it’s use in conversation:
“Как ты думаешь, мне стоит участвовать в том конкурсе? Или там слишком много профессионалов, и я все равно проиграю?” [Kak ti dumaesh, mne stoit uchastovat’ v tom konkurse? Ili tam slishkom mnogo professionalov, i ya vse ravno proigrayu?]
“What do you think, should I apply for that contest? Or there are too many professionals, so I will fail anyway?”
Ноги в руки и вперёд, это твой шанс! Ты ничего не теряешь. [Nogi v ruki i vpered, eto tvoi shans! Ti nichevo ne teryaesh]
“Take your feet in your hands and go forward, this is your chance! You are not losing anything.”
6. Мне фиолетово [mne fioletovo] and мне по барабану [mne po barabanu]
Literal translations: I feel purple for something and something is on the drum
What they mean: I don’t care
In modern slang trends, Russians frequently say that they “feel purple [for/about something]” (мне фиолетово) or “[something] is on the drum” for them (мне по барабану). These are informal, synonyms for “мне без разницы” [mne bez raznitsi] stating that someone does not care. Be careful, in some situations these idioms can be too strong and inappropriate. For example, you’ll be considered rude in this kind of dialogue:
“Какое мороженое тебе взять?” [Kakoe morozhenoe tebe vzyat’?]
“What ice cream would you like me to buy for you?”
“Мне по барабану”. [Mne po barabanu]
“It’s on the drum for me.”
If used correctly such as this, you’ll sound like a native:
“Ты смотрел вчера телевизор? По Первому показывали Саммит G-20.” [Ti smotrel vchera televizor? Po Pervomu pokazivali Sammit G-20]
“Did you watch TV yesterday? On the First channel, there was a program about G-20 Summit.”
“Нет, я никогда не смотрю телевизор. Мне фиолетово, что происходит на другом конце света.” [Net, ya nikogda ne smotryu televizor. Mne fioletovo, chto proishodit na drugom kontse sveta]
“No, I never watch TV. I feel purple about anything happening on the other side of the world.”
7. Офисный планктон” [ofisniy plankton]
Literal translations: Office plankton
What they mean: Negative description of a white-collar worker
In Russia, we often use the phrase “белые воротнички” [beliye vorotnichki] which literally means “white collar” and used in the same way as it is in English. That said from time to time you’ll hear “офисный планктон” “office plankton” when people are referring to those working in white collar jobs. This phrase projects a little more negativity and is often used to describe people who hate their job, constantly ask for a higher wage, and spend the working day gossiping with colleagues. Here’s an example of its use in conversation:
“Кем работает наш новый арендатор? Он фрилансер?” [Kem rabotaet nash noviy arendator? On frilanser?]
“What does our new tenant do for a living? Is he a freelancer?”
“Нет, он типичный ленивый офисный планктон, бухгалтер, если не ошибаюсь.” [Net, on tipichniy leniviy ofisniy plankton, buhgalter, esli ne oshibayus’]
“No, he is a typical lazy office plankton, an accountant, if I’m not mistaken.”
However, sometimes this phrase can be used more neutrally:
“Активный образ жизни не для меня. Я предпочитаю быть частью стабильного офисного планктона” [Aktivniy obraz zhizni ne dlya menya. Ya predpochitayu bit’ chast’yu stabil’nogo ofisnogo planktona]
“Active lifestyle is not for me. I prefer to be a stable office plankton.”
8. (Не) комильфо” [(Ne) komil’fo]
Literal translations: Not comme il faut
What they mean: Improper, awkward
If you want to use Russian slang, but still sound elegant, this is the phrase for you. “Не комильфо” (“not comme il faut”) originates from a French phrase “comme il faut” which means “correctly”, “alright”. It basically explains the meaning of this idiom — “not proper(-ly)”. Here is an example of the typical usage of such posh slang:
“Использовать сленг в официальной обстановке не комильфо” [Ispolzovat’ sleng v oficialnoy obstanovke ne komil’fo]
“Using slang in the official environment is not ‘comme il faut’ (= not appropriate)”.
Another example:
“Эти туфли не комильфо, они не подходят к этим брюкам” [Eti tufli ne komil’fo, oni ne podhodyat k etim bryukam ]
“These shoes are not ‘comme il faut’, they don’t suit these pants”.
9. Вешать лапшу на уши” [veshat’ lapshu na ushi]
Literal translations: Put pasta on someone’s ears
What they mean: To lie, to cheat
Russians never lie, instead, they “put pasta on [someone’s] ears”. This phrase can be also used in situations of a scam:
“Когда я покупал этот холодильник, продавец вешал мне лапшу на уши о том, что они предоставляют двухлетнюю гарантию. По факту, когда через месяц холодильник перестал морозить, никто не ответил на мои многочисленные официальные обращения.” [Kogda ya pokupal etot holodilnik, prodavets veshal mne lapshu na ushi o tom, chto oni predostavlyayut dvuhletnyuyu garantiyu. Po faktu, kogda cherez mesyats holodilnik perestal morozit’, nikto ne otvetil na moi mnogochislenniye oficialniye obrash’eniya]
“When I was purchasing this fridge, the shop assistant was putting pasta on my ears (= lying to me) about the two-year warranty. When the fridge stopped working in a month, nobody replied to a bunch of official complaints.”
10. Из штанов выпрыгивать” [Iz shtanov viprigivat’]
Literal translations: To jump out of one’s pants
What they mean: To work hard, to strive, to hustle
Everyone in Russia, including celebs, businessmen, and even the President “jumps out of the pants” once in a while. Don’t worry, they won’t freeze. This is an idiom used when the person wants to achieve something and will do everything posable to make it a reality it.
For example:
“Я из штанов выпрыгивал, чтобы его взяли на эту должность. А он взял и устроился простым инженером в другой компании.” [Ya iz shtanov viprigival, chtobi ego vzyali na etu dolzhnost’. A on vzyal i ustroilsya prostim ingenerom v drugoy kompanii]
“I’ve been jumping out of my pants in order for him to be accepted for this position. But he ended up applying for a simple engineer in another company.
11. Зуб давать” [zub davat’]
Literal translations: To give a tooth
What they mean: To promise
Rather than making a promise, Russians will “give a tooth”. Originally it meant “I’m ready to give you my tooth if this won’t happen”. Some people consider this phrase old-fashioned, others think that it belongs to a prison slang, but it is still used quite often in day to day speech. You can commonly hear this kind of sentence from an expressive Russian:
“Извините, у меня руки не доходили до Вашего заказа, но завтра я обязательно его выполню. Зуб даю.” [Izvinite, u menya ruki ne dohodili do Vashego zakaza, no zavtra ya obyazatel’no ego vipolnyu. Zub dayu]
“I’m sorry, I didn’t have time to carry out your order, but tomorrow I will definitely complete it. Give you a tooth.”
12. Делать из мухи слона [Delat’ iz muhi slona]
Literal translations: To make an elephant out of a fly
What they mean: To exaggerate
This phrase is just about exaggerating or describing things more frightening than they’re in fact. Here’s an example:
“О, Боже мой, вчера вечером, когда я ложилась спать, я увидела на потолке огромного паука размером с ладонь!” [O, Bozhe moi, vchera vecherom, kogda ya lozhilas’ spat’, ya uvidela na potolke ogromnogo pauka razmerom s ladon’!]
“Oh my God, yesterday in the evening, when I was going to bed, I saw an enormously huge spider on the ceiling! It was as big as my palm!”
“Ой, не делай из мухи слона. Это, наверное, была обычная милая букашка.” [Oi, ne delay is muhi slona. Eto, navernoe, bila obichnaya milaya bukashka]
“Oh, you shouldn’t make an elephant out of a fly. Probably, it was a usual cute bug.”
More like this: 30 expressions that show the Russian soul
11 moments in Birmingham, England
Once a driving force behind the Industrial Revolution (you know, the world-changing movement that would eventually make it possible for you to be reading this article on whatever screen you’re looking at), Birmingham has grown into a modern cultural powerhouse. Several universities, world-leading concert and events venues, a food and drink scene to rival anywhere you can think of…and that’s just the beginning.
England’s second-largest city has excellent transport links with the rest of the region (and country) by road and rail. More importantly, Birmingham Airport receives flights from all over the world, including direct from Newark, which truly makes it your gateway to #EnglandsHeartland. Once you’re here and ready to explore, you’ll experience these unforgettable moments for yourself.
1. Doing a double take at a street festival
Photo: Verity Milligan
On any trip to Birmingham, don’t forget to check what’s going on. The city has a jam-packed calendar of festivals, live events, and sporting events throughout the year. Here’s just a taste of what’s in store:
Birmingham Weekender is the biggest arts and culture festival in the city — crowds of 150,000+ aren’t uncommon. It’s three September days celebrating the best of theater, music, art, and some amazing street performances.
Stop by the creative quarter in Digbeth on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays for incredible food experiences put on by the award-winning Digbeth Dining Club. If you consider yourself a foodie, this is where to check out Birmingham’s latest and greatest.
Birmingham Pride is one of the largest LGBTQ events in the UK. It’s celebrated the last weekend in May, with parades, parties, and other special events during the two-day festival.
Arena Birmingham is where you go for huuuge acts. Think Lady Gaga, Pete Tong, British Athletics, and comedy’s biggest A-listers.
The National Exhibition Centre is also massive. Some of the best annual events here include Crufts, MCM Birmingham Comic Con, the BBC Good Food Show, and a ton of industry-specific events.
Across the city, annual events like the Frankfurt Christmas Market, Birmingham Comedy Festival, and the Aegon Classic tennis tournament somehow always seem to be taking place. The city will also host the Commonwealth Games in 2022.
2. Catching the sunset…from the library
Photo: Verity Milligan
Designed by Dutch architects, the Library of Birmingham is an impressive building and one you really have to see, even if spending an hour or two browsing the stacks isn’t typically your cup of tea. Go out of your way, if you have to, to check it out, and don’t stop at the stunning exterior — it’s equally impressive on the inside (and free to go in and look around, of course).
But the views aren’t just architectural — head up to the balcony around sunset, and you’ll see for yourself firsthand.
3. Getting knee-deep in a Land Rover
Photo: Land Rover Experience Solihull
Just south of Birmingham is the town of Solihull — consider it your portal to living out your Jumanji dreams. The Land Rover Experience Solihull is here, and they have a number of tours on tap that will have you navigating parts of England you had no idea existed. Hop behind the wheel on a one-hour, half-day, or full-day excursion, and you’re off careening through marshes, deep-water rock crawls, bridge crossings, cave drops, and practically defying the laws of physics on super-steep inclines. Anything named “Mud and Ruts” has expectations to live up to, after all.
You’ll get a quick lesson beforehand to make sure you’re comfortable, and on your return there’ll be refreshments to celebrate. Then…it’s back to the rental car.
4. Holding a cocktail and still hitting a hole-in-one
Photo: Ghetto Golf Birmingham
Did you know Birmingham has hosted more Ryder Cup matches than anywhere else in the world? They’ve all taken place at the historic Belfry Hotel & Resort. So if you’re a professional golfer, book it to the Belfry. The rest of us? We’re headed to Ghetto Golf, because there’s nothing like watching your friends fail at something a seven-year-old can master.
Ghetto Golf is 18 mini-golf holes in an old, graffitied factory for 18-and-overs only, and if you’re not picturing beer, BBQ, cocktails, street food, DJs, and neon-glowing black-lit rooms, you’re doing it wrong. And in case you’re not sold yet, yes, matching sexy golf visors for you and your friends can be part of the deal, too. (Ironically, there is a dress code.)
5. Watching a Dalek play the violin
Photo: Craig Holmes
Birmingham Symphony Hall is considered one of the finest concert halls in the world for its acoustics and auditorium design. You came to England for a touch of class, right? Sure, but hopefully you also came to see a world-renowned orchestra dressed up as Daleks (and Jabba the Hut) or to view Jurassic Park against a full live accompaniment.
For the record, Birmingham is the only UK hub outside London to have its own city orchestra and royal ballet…and quite possibly the only place anywhere where you can see Darth Maul on percussion.
6. Momentarily forgetting you’re not a hobbit
Photo: Visit Birmingham
J.R.R. Tolkien, author of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, lived in a village called Sarehole, a short drive from Birmingham city center. It’s widely understood that this spot was inspiration for Hobbiton and the Shire. If you’re a fan of Tolkien’s books or the more recent film adaptations, this is a great chance to see where he dreamed up his fantasy world.
You don’t have to go at it on your own, either. The Tolkien Trail highlights the locations where Tolkien lived and played in his youth, including Perrott’s Folly and the Edgbaston Waterworks Tower (the original “Two Towers of Gondor”); Sarehole Mill (where Tolkien nicknamed the miller’s son the “White Ogre”); and Moseley Bog, the likely inspiration for the “Old Forest” (Tom Bombadil’s Middle Earth stomping grounds). Move over, New Zealand — this is the real deal.
7. Floating on a big-city canal system…800 miles from Venice
Photo: Sarah Fellows
Birmingham is built on a series of canals similar to what you’d expect in Venice, Amsterdam, or Bruges. There are dozens of miles of waterways running across pretty much the entire Birmingham metro area. But one section in particular — administered by the Dudley Canal & Tunnel Trust — has features you definitely won’t find in those other, more famous canal cities. Think narrow tunnels and monumental caverns, all connected by boatable waterways that are open to visitors to explore.
Through the trust, you can take anywhere from a 45-minute to a six-hour tour through multiple tunnels, canals, locks, and caves. The two-hour version includes “legging” it through the 9,000-foot-long Dudley Tunnel, where boats are propelled by nothing but human power. Beat that, Venice!
8. Going to the movies like it’s 1909
Photo: Alex Liivet
The Electric Cinema opened in December 1909, making it the UK’s oldest operating movie theater. Originally showing silent black-and-white movies with nothing but piano accompaniment, it now screens the latest blockbusters as well as classic, independent, and foreign films — there’s also occasional special showings with live music from the Electric Cinema Film Orchestra.
If you want to enjoy a film in pure luxury, or for a romantic date, book a sofa for two with waiter service for a special treat (yes, 1909’s offerings have been upgraded a time or two).
9. Having a Eureka moment over champagne
Photo: Simpsons
Simpsons Eureka Kitchen puts your Blue Apron subscription to shame. It’s basically a Saturday-long cooking-school-meets-Michelin-starred restaurant. And, yep, you’re one of the chefs.
Under uber-professional guidance, and in the most amazing kitchen you’ll ever set foot in, you and your group will tackle a few extraordinary dishes. Break for champagne, and then it’s time to plate up and hunker down for a three-course lunch, some of which you just prepared. A sommelier is often onsite as well…yeah, when people talk about a dining “experience,” this is probably what they mean.
10. Tasting the perfect balti at the place that invented it
Photo: Visit Birmingham
A balti is a type of curry made using fresh, marinated meat and vegetables, cooked quickly with extra spices over a high flame. The curry is then served up still sizzling in the balti dish, satisfying Brummies day in and day out. The dish originated right here in Birmingham, and you can’t leave without trying it.
The name balti likely originates from Baltistan in the northern part of Pakistan — though it could also come from the Hindi word meaning “bucket,” referring to the dish in which the curry is served. Both etymologies taste the same (that is, delicious). Head to Adil, which is said to be where the balti was first served in 1977, or Akram’s, a local favorite. If the latter, don’t miss their incredible peshwari naans (Indian bread stuffed with dried fruit and nuts) to go with your balti.
11. Holding your very own handmade (as in, by you) chocolate
Photo: Cadbury World
The most famous chocolate brand in Britain — the only one you need to know — is Cadbury. They’ve been making chocolate since 1824, at one time requiring a whole village to house their workers. The still-thriving community, Bournville, is just outside Birmingham city center, and some of the original buildings remain.
Cadbury World is a huge attraction in Bournville, with interactive exhibits covering the history of chocolate from the Aztecs to our modern-day obsession. There’s also a 4-D chocolate adventure, chocolate making, and plenty more to keep you entertained. You can even play in chocolate rain — you’ll have to find out for yourself what exactly that entails. Book the chocolatier experience to make your own Cadbury chocolate, and leave time to munch on afternoon tea in their café. Yep, it’s chocolate-themed, too.
Clearly, in Birmingham, you’re not going to be bored. Welcome to England’s Heartland.
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