The Number 1 Thing About Bamako (Mali)

Posted on June 14, 2019June 14, 2019 by dev

Mali is currently not in a good state to say the least, and there was a big terrorist attack not far from where I was on my second day here, which was really sad, but there are still lots of positive things about the country and the capital, Bamako.

Mali Travel Advisory – US Government

The US Government has put a 4 on their travel advisory level, which is highest danger, which means do NOT travel to Mali at the moment, because there have been some really ugly incidents recently with kidnappings of Westerners, bombings, massacres and more..

The Capital Bamako

Bamako is the capital of Mali and is also the largest city with 2 million people. The place is near the famous Niger River. Located between the Sahara to the north and the Gulf of Guinea to the south, Bamako is very hot on average all year round with the hottest months being March, April, and May.

I wasn’t freezing during my time in Bamako! +40°C was the standard

Is Bamako All Bad And Dangerous?

No, Bamako is not all bad and dangerous. There are so many reasons to visit this city also. I agree it’s maybe not the best time to go to Bamako right now, but the capital still has a lot to offer.

Seydou, one of my new friends in Bamako, Mali

The People

Mali is the 4th poorest country in the world (UN Human Development Index). In Bamako and in Mali in general people is primarily Muslim, but there are also significant populations of Christians and animists. French is the official language and Bambara is the most widely spoken.

Women wear long skirts but arms, chests and heads are regularly exposed.

Colorful Malian ladies in a village outside of Bamako

Malians are poor and most people live for less than 1 dollar a day. No medical care, little to no access to education, weak infrastructure – But sometimes when you know the feeling of having nothing, that’s when you become more open-minded, wanting to share more with people..

I had the most from people who had the least to be fair!

Bamako might have people who wants to take advantage of you, but is also full of incredible kindness, hospitality and curiosity.

Two Malian guys chiling at a local market, Bamako

One thing I found interesting here was the fact that a lot of families practice polygamy. A man will live with 2-3 wives in a large compound, a hut or a small house with all their children. In Senegal it was 4 out of 10 men, who lived as polygamists and here probably around the same if not more.

The Sights

Bamako is a sprawling city through which the river Niger flows. On one end of the city is a hill formation (supposed to be an extinct volcano?) on which the President’s Palace is located. You start driving up the hill, you leave the hustle and bustle of the city, enter into green surroundings and the roads are great.

Bamako is not a knock out sightseeing city. There is no must see location, but I still found some very cool places here and even though it’s a large, noisy, crowded city, it has its charms.

*Monument* de l”Independance, Bamako, Mali

I really liked to see the crazy and colorfol Bamako City Center market. A great, vibrant and hectic experience, even though a bus smashed really hard into a car few meters away from me. Scary! The bus drove away right after leaving the car smashed and the car owner shocked and speechless. Not cool…

3 Best Sights In Bamako

My favorite places in Bamako to visit are: Monument de l”Independance, Bamako Grand Mosque and of course the obvious Bamako highlight, Le Campement.

Morning swim at Le Campement. So cool and you have it all by yourself!

The way to Le Campement was great, if you choose the bumpy, little used but well signposted road taking you through rural areas directly to the foot of the 3rd bridge. You’ll pass trough rarely visited villages, beautiful green countryside and have some excellent views over fields, canals and mountain side villages.

Having been all around the city of Bamako and the small neighborhoods, the city villages and their people are the real sights of this colorful city. In the suburbs you can see so many things, visit potters, blacksmiths, tailors and and colorful local markets or just grab a cup of tea and watch the daily life of a vibrant township pass by before your eyes. And if you stop for a look there, you will be met by big smiles and respect.

The Number 1 Thing About Bamako

It could have been the food, which is pretty amazing and cheap here, but IT’S NOT.

I like the Malian breakfast, which was a bit different to my oatmeal with raisins back in Denmark, I really liked the extremely cheap grilled meat sticks you can get on every street corner too and then ofc. the Timbuktu Toukassou. Yummy!

But food wasn’t what I liked the most about Bamako, even though it was up there among the best things. The thing I liked the most, and I actually can’t remember one capital city I’ve been to around the World, where this thing was so common and easy: Free motorbike rides.

Free Motorbike Rides (THE BEST THING)

I’ve done at least 30+ free motorbike rides during my time in Bamako.

I quickly found out the traffic here was really bad quiet early during my stay and there were so many people on their motorbikes, who drove past the queues of the cars easily. So what I usually did to beat the traffic was just jumping on random motorbikes. How in the world was that possible?

Crossed the Niger River several times a day. That was so easy to do!

It was so super easy here actually. I just pointed with my hand in which direction I was going to go, and the drivers then nodded if they were going that way, or showed with their hand they were going in another direction. I usually didn’t wait for more than 30 seconds before having a ride ready and no one did ever ask me for money after I said: “Merci beaucoup pour le voyage de mon ami.” / Thanks for the ride my friend.

People in Bamako loves to help you with a free ride

Excuse Moi?

My French is extremely limited, so don’t be afraid to do the same. It’s all about the attitude.

Even when I came back from hiking in Malian mountains several hours outside of Bamako, I had free rides, after our bus crashed down in the middle of nowhere, which by the way happens way too often in West Africa.. I even had some gifts on the free motor bikes in Bamako and a lot of appreciation. You probably wouldn’t get that in Bangkok, Manila or in any major European city. In these places most people would look strange at you or ask you to pay as much as possible, worst case even try to scam you.

In Bamako, it’s a different story.

– Gustav

gus1thego.com

The Scariest Border Crossing – From Guinea Bissau to Guinea

Posted on June 8, 2019June 8, 2019 by dev

After an amazing time in Guinea Bissau, it was time for me to start a new adventure. Off to Guinea, which I only knew from a big ebola outbreak 3 years ago before.

Staying in the slums of Bissau, Guinea-Bissau

Interesting stay in Guinea-Bissau

I left from Bissau, the capital of Guinea-Bissau to Gabu, a city in the east of Guinea-Bissau and spend some time exploring Gabu, before making the decision to head to the bus station and see if there were any busses or taxis, which was going to Guinea in the afternoon.

I asked for Labe, a relatively big city in Guinea and a guy there took me to the ticket office in Gabu. I bought the ticket and was told to sit and wait with a bunch of other people on a small bench.

Waiting for the bus in Gabu, Guinea-Bissau. One guy was wearing football shoes and a shirt, love the combo!

Different prices at the bus station

All people paid 14.000 CFA, including myself, but I had to pay 3000 CFA extra, because of my small extra bag, eventhough all the local people carried many extra bags + a lot of other things from their home, without any extra fees.

Love Africa sometimes..

Anyway, I didn’t want to discuss that further with the ticket guy and I accepted it, because I thought I would be one of the last persons to join the bus, and that we were then ready to leave the place and go to Guinea, my country number 113.

But no. We waited for one hour, we waited for two.. We waited for three.. Nothing really happened.

We were 11 people sitting there waiting impatiently and I counted the seats in the mini bus to 13 seats, if everyone was sitting super close, so I hoped a solution was going to be found soon.

The Rastafarian Guy

A Rastafarian guy from Guinea, who showed me some weird bar photos on his phone from his time in Germany

I was small talking a bit with a Rastafarian Guinean guy, (he didn’t speak any English though,) but we went for a nice omelette sandwich together while waiting. Very popular in Guinea-Bissau! He showed me some weird photos too from Germany, where he went to a bar apparently!

Lack of English and lack of patience

Nobody in the Gabu bus station spoke English, but I tried to tell the ticket guy that there were only two free seats, but he started to say ‘tomorrow’ and signaled to me that we would probably first be able to go tomorrow instead of today, because the bus wasn’t full.

My general impression, after having traveled to many places in Africa, is that time is never a factor. I’m used to it, but to say the bus would first be able to leave tomorrow morning, because of 2 people missing pissed me off, especially after having waited for more than 3 hours in an insane heat.

I could see people were losing their patience too like me and I told the guy that we would maybe meet two persons on the way. He rejected me again.

We waited 30 minutes more..

Waiting for many hours to go to Guinea at the bus station in Gabu, Guinea-Bissau. The ticket guy to the right!

I then lost my temper and told him to give me back my overpaid money, and everyone at the station now had their eyes planted on me. I pointed out on the street and said I was going to find another solution.. He could understand my hand gestures and facial expression.

That’s when stuff got serious.

Leaving Gabu in a new bus

I could see he was now afraid of losing the 3000 CFA going directly to his pocket, and he said in a mix of Portuguese, French and English that I should wait 5 minutes and he would just go to the toilet.

When he came back, he had called someone else. That guy brought an even smaller, older and more crappy mini bus, with windows that couldn’t even close. Three people moved all of our luggage to the ‘new’ bus.

They put some fuel on it and a guy was trying to fix the brakes. After few minutes the ticket guy told us we were ready to go, looking at me directly. He smiled to me and I smiled back and we shaked hands and both laughed a bit. No bad feelings, I just love Africa sometimes! All of this for two free seats on the bus..

A beautiful girl waiting at the station in Gabu, Guinea-Bissau

Finally off to Guinea, my country number 113

When we got in the small mini bus with windows that couldn’t close, we were sitting there super close to each other and it was impossible to move. This was going to be a long drive! Everyone was smiling at me and greeting me, because people were happy to leave today and not tomorrow.

Right when we left the station, two local people were asking if the bus went to Labe, Guinea.. Really? So why did we need to change bus!? Anyways, in the bus with them too! The bus was absolutely packed now!

Some Of The Most Bumpy Roads Ever

We drove for hours on some of the most bumpy roads I’ve ever experienced driving on, even as an experienced African traveler, and then the Rastafarian guy told me that we were now at the border when it was late evening.

Me and the Rastafarian guy, both very tired!

We went out of the bus and there was this big lake we had to pass. We were standing in Guinea Bissau and on the other side of that lake was Guinea.

The big problem was there was no bridge.

I could see a small tree platform and some goats on the other side and nothing more, except for some pretty interesting observations in the water.. Crocodiles and other interesting stuff? Most possibly!

Standing in Guinea-Bissau, ready to cross the river to Guinea! Completely covered in dust, because the windows in the bus couldn’t close

We waited for three hours until night time, and then someone came to the tree platform on the Guinean side and brought it over to our side.

Passing the border on an old, shaky, tree platform

We then put the mini bus on the tree platform and me and 8 African guys had to pull a rope by hand power to get us over the river. We were all drained when we made it to the other side. Talk about an adventurous border crossing!

It was totally dark now on the other side and we went through 4 or 5 border stops, where we all had to get out of the bus each time, having our passports and documents checked, before we squeezed together again and continued on the dusty, narrow, bumpy African roads. I knocked my head into the windows several times and had to buy coffee on every stop we made, because sleeping on this route would leave you seriously damaged. And I hate coffee!

At around 3am in the night the Rastafarian guy, who apparently went to Germany, showed the pictures of him there to a lady in the bus and the lady didn’t believe him. They started to shout at each other for the next hours and everyone in the bus was suddenly taking part in the argument, except for me! Nuts!

Trying to stay positive in the drama bus

Good thing was the discussions helped me to stay awake. But damn, Guinean people can get angry, that’s a fact! Didn’t need to buy any coffee for these hours at least..

At 5 am it all culminated with a woman’s baby puking on my bag and on another Guinean guy, because of the crazy driving on the dust roads! The smell some African busses can have with lack of deo/perfume, motor oil and other ingrediens, just got even worse. When I arrived in Labe, Guinea at 10 in the morning, I was so super exhausted and relieved to have reached the destination.. It was great to get in a taxi!

When arriving in Labe, Guinea completely done with dust everywhere. I took a shared taxi to a guesthouse to sleep a bit!

But also happy to have taken part in such a cultural, adventurous, scary, off the beaten path bus ride from Guinea Bissau to Guinea, which I’m now thinking back on with a smile.

What a way to enter my country number 113!

Guinea

Real travel, always

Gustav

Gus1thego.com

Why You Should Go To Senegal

Posted on June 2, 2019 by dev

Are you considering to visit Africa and maybe a little scared of the big continent?

I have spent a big part of my life on the African continent and it’s my favourite continent to travel, because it’s the 100% most adventurous.

Picture from my stay with the Banna Tribe in the Omo Valley, Ethiopia

Africa Feeling

I always felt a particular affection for Africa. Since childhood, I’ve been incredibly interested in its culture and history; I listen to African music daily (afro pop, bongo flavour) and have a big African bucket list and generally feel connected to this huge and complex continent. But the truth is, I did not meet many people who shared this interest. Most of my friends dreamed about places like Paris or New York, not remote African towns. Many tourists want to feel comfortable and it might be easier in most of the overcrowded touristy European cities, but for me the most unique travel experiences are found in Africa.

Abushe, my meeting with the boy with the blue eyes

There are some countries in Africa you shouldn’t start with to gain experience in traveling Africa.

And then there’s Senegal

I recommend you to start your Africa adventure with Senegal, a country with no extreme weather conditions (only in few places), acceptable facilities and the most welcoming people. These are some of my travel memories to this country, including a few suggestions and advice to go backpacking Senegal.

Senegal is not a country to see, but rather to experience.

Useful Information

Languages: French and Wolof.
Religion: mostly Muslim population (however, it feels like a “more open“ version of Islam, in which women have a fairly active role).
Money: the unit of currency is the West African CFA franc (1 € = around 656 CFA).
Weather: Senegal’s peak season goes from December to May when the weather is pleasant and warm. The rainy/wet season normally begins in July and ends in September. Temperatures are high in summer.

Senegal is a cheap country and you can go around 1 hour in taxi for 3000 CFA / 5 euros, so don’t go with anyone suggesting 10,000 CFA for a 15 minutes drive, just keep that in mind.. Taxi drivers can be douches in any country unfortunately!

But, Is it Safe to Travel to Senegal?

Unfortunately, Senegal has the stigma of insecurity and poverty as many other African countries. However, I must say during my time I spent in Senegal, I never felt the slightest threat. Obviously, bad things can happen anywhere, and you always need to be careful, watch your pockets and bags and use your common sense. I recommend not to bring anything of value you would be sad to lose, don’t carry too much cash and don’t walk alone at night in the suburbs, which I did anyways with no problem at all here!

A random guy took me to his family late at night in Zac Mbao, Senegal

Health

Make sure to get the Yellow Fever vaccination and to bring along the International certificate and proof of vaccination. They probably will not ask for it at the airport, but have it handy. It’s recommended to get vaccinated against Hepatitis A and B, Tetanus and Typhus and to take antimalarial medication.

I’m taking Vibradox malaria pills, which are actually the only malaria pills I don’t get a bad stomach with and I’m putting mosquito repellent on skin and clothes when the evening comes.

If you don’t want to take the Malaria prophylaxis, be very vigilant about not being bitten too much. A good mosquito net is key! Even if flats/hotels have their own, it is better to trust yours, with no holes.

A very good mosquito repellent did it for me though!

Backpacking Senegal: What to Visit

Dakar

The beauty of Senegal’s capital is not really in its architecture, the dusty streets or the roads collapsed by traffic: but rather in its atmosphere and cheerful people.

The best part of Dakar though is the smiling locals walk through the city wearing flashy clothes while causing a color explosion. Though it is worth a visit, the center of Dakar is definitely not the best place for a relaxing walk. In my experience, the best of Dakar is in the outskirts of the city and in the villages along the coast (like N’gor and Yoff).

Africa’s tallest statue

That being said, Dakar has Africa’s tallest statue made my North Korea architects, The African Renaissance Monument, which is ment to symbolize Africa’s rebirth, potential and liberation.

A 49 meter tall bronze statue located on top of one of the twin hills known as Collines des Mamelles, which is pretty cool!

Getting asked by a Congolese family for a pic with their son at Africa’s Tallest Statue

Pink Lake (Lake Retba)

Less than an hour away from Dakar, there is an unusual lake that will surely catch your eye due to its vivid pink color: Lake Retba (or Lac Rosé). Its distinct color is caused by the Dunaliella salina algae, which is attracted by the lake’s high salt content. The algae produces a red pigment to absorb the sunlight while giving the lake its unique color. Since the algae which gives the lake its color is completely harmless to humans, swimming is possible.

When I was there it wasn’t that pink, because it depends on many factors to get this color, but it can look like this on some occasions

Saint Louis

Saint Louis, the first French colony in Africa, is one of the most fascinating cities in Senegal. Located 260 km from Dakar, the heart of this old colonial city is on a narrow island over the river Senegal and linked to the African mainland by the bridge Faidherbe.

Lompoul Desert

Senegal isn’t all about mangroves and lagoons. If you venture south of St. Louis, you’ll eventually run into the Lompoul Desert. The orange-tinted dunes in the area are similar to what you’d fine in the Sahara. While there, you can take a hike over the dunes on foot or take it easy with the help of a camel.

Villages visits

I was very impulsive in Senegal and went to many small villages by myself and always met Senegalese people who welcomed me to their home, eventhough my French is absolutely limited.

Staying with Amadou’s lovely family in village Tivaouane, Senegal

Language

If you can speak French, you will have no problem communicating in this country. If you don’t, remember the universal language in Senegal is the smile. You should also learn a few key phrases in Arabic and Wolof that you will hear all the time:

Salaam Aleikum (and the answer: Aleikum Saalam) > “peace be with you“

Nan ga deff? > “how are you?“, you will hear this all the time and you will have to respond:

Mahn gii fii > ‘I am fine“ / “I am here“

Jarrejeff > Thank you

Nookobokk > You’re welcome

Amul solo > No problem

Wow wow > Yes

Ded ett > No

Ded ett, merci > No, thank you

Alham doulilah > Thanks be to Allah

Insh allah > Allah willing

Degguma Wolof > I don’t speak Wolof

To conclude…

Having been all around Senegal from north, central to the south of Ziguinchor, the so-called “Gate of Africa” may not be the most beautiful place on earth or a holiday destination for those seeking comfort, but it has everything for a fascinating experience as a whole.

Inside the home of a family I stayed with in Senegal, Fun when they came in the living room!

Senegal is defined by its small details: the baobabs, the teranga (hospitality of its people) and the smiles of the children that you’ll meet, who will love to talk and play with the toubabs (white).

Taking two of my hosts kids to the beach for their first time with a French friend!

You will be captivated by the colorful pirogues of the fishermen, the flashy dresses of the women, the sounds of the djembe, the endless dancing nights, the mythical sept-places (and all the stories that will happen to you inside them) and the eternal African sunsets. Even the local bus ride can be fascinating!

Love this pic from the local bus in Dakar, Senegal

I know one Senegalese guy who moved to Europe in pursuit of financial happiness. He misses Senegal, he says Europe is cold and people are not happy. He is sad, because this is not like Senegal and he is already dreaming of coming back. To be honest, I understand him.

I will miss you Senegal ❤️

With my local friend Amadou and his son. Amazing hospitality!

See you next time….

– Gustav

gus1thego.com

Helpful Faroese Phrases For First Time Visitors

Posted on May 22, 2019May 22, 2019 by dev

The Faroese language isn’t widely spoken and not even Google Translate can help you in Faroe Islands.

It’s tradition that my dad, me and my uncle play a bit of football when we’re all together in Faroe Islands

Why Learn Some Faroese?

In general knowing a few words of the language of the country you’re visiting can really go a long way!

You’ll impress Faroese people if you know a bit of the rarely spoken language, eventhough most people can communicate in English or Danish most places here. Here are some of the key Faroese phrases that can help you in your travel to Faroe Islands, which I know will be soon of course!

The Iconic Kalsoy Lighthouse, Faroe Islands

Sometimes it can be a bit embarrassing to go to a café or something and realize that you don’t even know how to say “thank you” once you’ve purchased your lunch! So here are the basics!

Faroese Key Phrases

// Hi – Hey (pronunciation same as in English)

//Goodbye – Bei (pronunciation same as in English)

//Thank You – Takk “Tahk”

//How Are You? – Hvussu Hevur Tú Tað? “Kvossu Havur Tu Tehr”

//I’m Fine – Eg Havi Tað Gott “Eh Havur Tehr Gott”

//What’s Your Name? Hvussu Eitur Tú? “Kvossu Eiter Tu?”

//My Name Is Gustav – Eg Eiti Gustav “Eh Eide Gustav”

In Funningur, Faroe Islands. Faroe Islands Is The Last Paradise On Earth

//Excuse Me – Orsaka “Orsh-akha”

//Do You Speak English? – Tosar Tú Enskt? “Toah-sar Too Enskt”

//I Don’t Speak Faroese – Eg Tosi Ikki Føroyskt “Eah Toah-seh ich-eh Fuhr-iskt”

//Have A Nice Day – Hav Ein Góðan Dag “Hav Ein Godan Dakh”

Finally, maybe the most important phrase to learn in any language:

//One Beer – Eina Øl “Eye-nah Uhl”

Having most of my family on Faroe Islands, I know a bit more than this, but what about you? Do you have any other Faroese phrases that would be helpful for travelers? Leave them in the comments!

By clicking here you can find out why you should book your flight tickets to Faroe Islands immediately!

– Gustav

gus1thego.com

5 Reasons Why You NEED To Go To Faroe Islands

Posted on May 21, 2019May 22, 2019 by dev

I have spent a big part of my childhood on Faroe Islands. I’ve been there 14 times in total and been to most of the major 18 Faroese islands, but there’s always a new adventure waiting in ‘Europe’s best kept secret.’

Even after having been to 100+ countries, Faroe Islands is still a very special place to me. Having Faroese roots, the nature and the fact that a big part of my family is living on the Faroe Islands, makes the country like a second home to me. I’m still fascinated every time I arrive in Vágar Airport and drive through the country’s incredible landscape, when I come back to visit my grandfather.

What is Faroe Islands?

The Faroe Islands is a self-governing archipelago with 50,000 people, part of the Kingdom of Denmark, but with its own flag, laws, government and passport.

It comprises 18 rocky, volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, connected by road tunnels, ferries, causeways and bridges. The islands’ mountains are characterised by steep cliffs, tall mountains, narrow fjords and grassy heathland with thousands of sheeps and seabirds.

The Faroe Islands are synonymous with fishing. With my father and big Faroese cousin in Torshavn, Faroe Islands

The Faroese language derives from Old Norse, which was spoken by the Norsemen who settled the islands 1200 years ago and is very different to the Danish language in Denmark.

There’s absolutely no chance of confusing the Faroe Islands with Denmark – or any other Scandinavian country, for that matter. It truly is a place that stands out all on its own.

1. The scenery

There are no arguments anyone can make that will convince me that the Faroe Islands don’t have some of the most stunning scenery in the world. It’s just a visually striking place, with green mountains and shaggy sheep; crashing waterfalls and colorful little villages.

My dad and I walking around in Gjógv, Eysturoy, Faroe Islands

View from the small village Bøur, Vágar, Faroe Islands

2. Ease of travel

Yes, the Faroes are in the middle of the Atlantic ocean, but you can get easy flight connections these days from places like Copenhagen, Bergen, Reykjavik, and more. (I fly from Copenhagen every time and prefer flying Atlantic Airways.)

The weather can be dramatic here on Faroe Islands. Clear skies and then strong wind and heavy rain right after

When I was a kid, you couldn’t drive to most places, but you had to take ferries or cross mountains on foot, but now it’s incredibly easy to get around with a rental car. Signs are easy to read, tunnels and bridges connect the main islands and make travel times short, and roads are all paved and well-maintained. (Some roads are admittedly very narrow and winding, but the quality of them is still very good.)

Faroe Islands means “Sheep Islands.” There are more sheep in the country than people!

3. Incredibly welcoming people

In which other country in the world do people not lock their doors when they leave their home? And in which other country do you just walk in without knocking on the door when visiting family?

The last one is a bit too much for me, but it’s the truth of Faroe Islands. One of the safest countries on the planet and Faroese people are very welcoming and relaxed, and enjoy getting together and talk for hours. The Faroese people are hardy (you have to be when you live in a place with such changeable weather!) and hard-working, but also love good food and drink. They are also very passionate about their home.

Enjoying fish soup with my Faroese family in Runavik, Faroe Islands

Faroese people have an extremely strong family bond and they live very close to each other.

4. Puffins

The island of Mykines is only a 45-minute ferry ride from the island of Vagar, and in the summer the entire island is covered in birds – including thousands of puffins!

The Atlantic puffin is my favourite seabird. So awesome!

(And really, do you need any other reason to visit?)

5. Social Media Hasn’t Ruined It

I’ve been to Iceland and they’re struggling to figure out what to do with more tourists than they can handle.

The Faroe Islands don’t currently have that problem. Even though the landscapes are incredible, the fact that the country remain relatively obscure means that there aren’t really a ton of tourists there. I visited Faroe Islands in each of the last 4 years, and no matter where I go, I only share the views with a couple of other people. (Keep in mind that I usually go in May, and not in July/August where it is tourist season)

The small village of 64 people, Tjørnuvik, Faroe Islands

My Faroese grandfather always told me May is the best month to visit Faroe Islands (weather, tourists, beauty) and he knows better than anyone!

With my ‘abbi’ (grandfather) in Faroese. He spoke 7 languages fluently, but is now 86 years old!

There is nothing like a fresh sunny morning in the Faroe Islands during spring time.

If you want to visit a place that social media attention hasn’t ruined, head to the Faroe Islands. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

– Gustav

gus1thego.com

The 7 New Wonders Of The World

Posted on May 21, 2019May 23, 2019 by dev

It’s easy to get confused by the many ‘7 Wonders of the World-lists’ out there. There are the 7 Ancient Wonders, 7 Natural Wonders, etc — but for my own personal record, I am only keeping track of the 7 New Wonders of the World.

I’ve been to 6 of 7 of the New Wonders of the World. Read on to hear about my experiences!

1. Taj Mahal, India

It’s very hard to choose a personal favourite, but Taj Mahal is for sure in my Top 2!

I loved it so much that I went to see the sunrise in the morning and then spent all day to see the sunset. The most impressive thing about the Taj is the absolute perfect symmetry that around 20,000 people built in the 17th century. You can notice the perfection and small details, when the sun is low in the sky, and the shadows are perfectly cast on the marble stone. It surely is the one of the most perfect buildings in the World and it deserves its name as the “Monument of Love.”

2. Great Wall of China, China

I visited the Great Wall of China on a two weeks visit to China in April/May 2019 and it didn’t disappoint!

I have technically visited China 4 times, two times Hong Kong and one time on a 24 hour transit, but this was my first visit to ‘The Great Wall of China’ and walking around here for hours was worth every second!
I went to one of the best preserved parts, called Mutianyu, and it was surprisingly quiet. I couldn’t imagine a better day at the wall with sunshine and almost zero people. One of the greatest sights in the World!

3. Colosseum, Italy

I’ve been to Rome 3 times and at my first 2 times here (2011 and 2013,) I didn’t take any pictures at the Colosseum! Pretty weird nowadays!?

I love Italy! I’ve been to Italy 8 times and 3 times in Rome, and every time I’ve been to Rome, I went to the Colosseum. My father is a big fan of the movie ‘Gladiator’, and we have watched the movie countless times and to be fair I always had a fascination of the gladiatorial universe. The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater (meaning “theatre in the round”) in the World and I can only imagine the bloody battles and heads that were taken off over the years inside this mecca venue.

4. The Lost City of Petra, Jordan

I visited the Lost City of Petra in 2016 and it blew my mind. My personal favourite!

My friend and I arrived super early in the morning to Petra and were the first two persons to enter the lost city, which is 2,400 year old. We walked through the huge, narrow canyons with carved sandstone cliffs and out of a sudden we were standing in front of the 45m-high Al Khazneh temple (called “The Treasury,“) carved into the red mountain rock. Incredible! The whole area was just fascinating and we enjoyed the walk out to the legendary Monastery temple, hidden high in the hill as well. The Lost City of Petra is my favourite of the New Seven Wonders of the World. No visit to Jordan is complete without visiting Petra!

5. Christ The Redeemer, Brazil

I went to Christ Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, in April 2016 in the end of an epic 3 weeks trip through Brazil.

I have mixed feelings about Rio De Janeiro, but Christ Redeemer was incredible to experience!

The massive Christ statue stands tall on the peak of the Corcovado mountains, overlooking the entire city of Rio. The open arms of Christ symbolize Christianity all over the world and the welcoming culture of Rio. It has become an icon of Brazil since it was constructed in the 1920s.

6. Chitzen Itza, Mexico

I went to Chitzen Itza, Mexico in February 2019 in an amazing 2 weeks trip to Mexico.

Unfortunately you aren’t allowed to climb up the top of the pyramid anymore, but I did put my hand on the Chitzen Itza anyway. Breathtaking city that the Mayans built for more than 1,000 years ago and the views all around this place are tremendous.

7. Machu Picchu, Peru

I haven’t been to Machu Picchu yet, but I can’t wait to go in the beginning of 2020, where I will do a South America trip again! Will you be around?

Not on the list. Why?

Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt

I went to the Great Pyramid of Giza in 2013 and this photo doesn’t justify the beauty of this place!

NOT on the list, but Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt should definitely be. Its ancient engineering feats are so impressive that even today scientists can’t be sure how the pyramids were built. Another amazing treasure.

That’s all from me….

How many of the ‘7 New Wonders of The World’ have you been to? 1. Taj Mahal, 2. Great Wall of China, 3. Colosseum, 4. Petra, 5. Christ Redeemer, 6. Chitzen Itza, 7. Machu Picchu..

Let me know!

Gustav

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5 Awesome Things To Do In Rome, Italy

Posted on May 15, 2019May 16, 2019 by dev

I’ve been to Rome 3 times and these are my Favourite Things to do in the Italian capital!

1: Hang Out in the Pantheon

Pantheon looks today – inside and out – much the way it has looked for nearly 2,000 years. These marble floors you’re walking on? Yeah, people have been walking on them for two thousand years.
The Pantheon in Rome is, hands down, my favorite building in the city. The Pantheon still manages to stand out in a city that is simply replete with important historic buildings and monuments.

2: Eat Something Typically Roman

I love trying out different pizzas and Rome is the place to do it!

Rome is THE place to eat a lot of pizza!

Shops, pizzerias, takeaways, and restaurants all serve you some of the tastiest pizzas in the World and if you search well you can easily find pizza to low price with high quality.

One of my favourite places for pizza is ‘Pizza E Mozzarella,’ close to Trevi Fountain. The restaurant doesn’t look as much from outside, but the pizzas are absolutely incredible. Authentic Italian style, very tasty and fresh and the location is right in the centre of Rome. The bruschetta is good too.
Very affordable prices with a generous and nice owner! Check it out when in Rome!

Other common Roman dishes, which you may be familiar with from restaurants outside Italy, but you should try in the original place where they come from, are bucatini all’amatriciana (a tomato sauce cooked with onion and a fatty pork called guanciale) and spaghetti alla carbonara (the sauce is made from egg yolks, pecorino romano, and pancetta). Yummy!

3: Get a Tour of Vatican City

While Vatican City is its own independent city-state (and country), no one only visits Vatican City without visiting Rome as well. For most travelers, touring the Vatican is a one day trip from Rome, and that’s exactly what I suggest when people ask me how much time they should spend in Vatican City.

I go to The Vatican every time I go to Rome, because it’s such a cool place with breathtaking sights and spectacular artworks. And how cool is it to have a country inside of a city?!

Furthermore is St. Peter’s Basilic the most beautiful church I’ve ever seen from inside and it basically makes all other churches look average compared to it.

If you want to visit St. Peter’s Basilica, you can do it for free, but you’ll usually have to wait a lot of hours, because the queues are long and slow. The second option is you can pay for the fast track access with a guide for around $30, which my friend and I did back in 2013 and it was certainly worth it.

Inside St. Peter’s Basilica in 2013 in The Vatican

If you are in Rome for a short time, you might consider skipping the line, so you can hit up some of the other main attractions!

PS. The dress code is strictly enforced at St Peter’s Basilica. Men must wear long trousers (no shorts) and cover their shoulders, women must not have either bare shoulders or skirts shorter than knee length.

4. Do Some People-Watching at the Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome and also the most famous one.

Trevi Fountain is the most beautiful and most spectacular fountain in Rome. @gustavrosted

I admit that the Trevi Fountain is seriously touristy, and can be kind of a pain in the height of the tourist season because of the crowds. You can go early morning or in low-season to avoid most tourists.

After throwing your coin in the water (right hand over left shoulder, remember!), it can be a lot of fun watching other people taking pictures and making silly videos. Just relax, hang out, and watch the throngs of people repeating the same ritual over and over again. It gets pretty amusing, actually – especially when the designated photographer or videographer goofs up and the whole process has to be repeated (there goes another euro!).

Remember Trevi Fountain has garnered its worldwide fame because of its beauty and it is a must see site in every tourist’s route once in Rome. Beautiful place!

5. Visit Colosseum

One of the seven Wonders of the World. This mighty structure is one of the most renowned and iconic landmarks in the world and a trip to Rome would not be complete without visiting the Colosseum.

Great Colosseum, Rome, Italy. Love taking the Gladiator’s Entrance, pretending I’m Russell Crowe!

The Colosseum was constructed between 70-80 AD and at its peak was estimated to hold 80,000 spectators. I’ve watched ‘Gladiator’ countless times with my dad and admit I have a soft spot for this place.

Located to the south west of the main terminus train station, the Colosseum is easily accessible and has a metro station in close proximity, called Colosseo.

Check this famous structure from all angles, and ensure that you brave the queues and step inside to truly appreciate the enormity of this ancient place of celebration. Just like a Gladiator!

Unstoppable trio.. Rome, one of the best cities in Europe

That’s all from me.. Enjoy Rome!

Gustav

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8 Things You Should NEVER Do In North Korea

Posted on May 3, 2019May 15, 2019 by dev

Not following these rules may well get you or your guide arrested or killed in North Korea, so pay close attention.

1: Don’t call the country North Korea

Referring to the nation as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Korea or DPRK, will help to keep you out of trouble, while you’re on the inside of the country.

2: “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say nothing at all.”

Don’t speak negatively about the country, its people, or its leaders. This is an major offence and has landed tourists in hot water, such as being sentenced to hard labor.

Don’t zoom in on pictures of ex-leaders or Kim Jong Un. He is the Supreme Leader and is literally like a God in North Korea. You have to respect him at all times, so absolutely no memes or jokes about him.

Even if you’re throwing a newspaper in the trash bin with him on the front page, it can be seen as a big offence! Forget all about folding a newspaper in two with Kim Jong Un getting folded.. In that case you have to fold it in 3, so that the Leader isn’t folded! I’m not joking, this is actually very useful knowledge.

You could get in big trouble by not doing this.

The Supreme Leader, Kim Jong Un and his father Kim Jong-il who was the second leader of North Korea

3: Prohibited items

The following items are prohibited in North Korea:

– Religious material
– Pornographic material
– Political material
– Travel guides

You can bring in your laptop, tablet, camera and cell phone. Even though telecommunications are tightly controlled in North Korea and internet is close to non-existing!

Don’t pack a lot of stuff for your trip, because all electronics – not to mention your browsing history – may be inspected by customs officials. A good advice is to play with open cards and take out all electronics from your bag before the screening, it shows the military you have nothing to hide!

4: Photography

North Korean government authorities may view taking unauthorized pictures as espionage, and could confiscate cameras, film and/or detain the photographer. This includes photographs of airports, government buildings, construction sites, military infrastructure, transport hubs or anything which isn’t considered a tourism location.

I took a lot of pictures/video clips, but respected the above mentioned rules, so didn’t have any problems.
Make sure you’re not filming scenes of poverty or other situations that may cause a negative impression of the DPRK. To be fair you won’t see a lot of extreme poverty in DPRK, because they have no taxes and free housing.

Socialist fairyland. Officially, there are no taxes in North Korea and free housing. Far from perfect though!

Judge the situation before taking photographs in the DPRK, including of officials, soldiers or other people.

Drones are definitely a no-go. You won’t be allowed to bring a drone on the inside.

5: LGBTQ

While same sex relationships aren’t illegal in North Korea, authorities generally don’t accept them. It’s important for LGBTQ travelers to remain discreet at all times.

6: Don’t discuss or practice your religious beliefs.

North Korea is an atheist state that restricts public religion. Participating in unsanctioned religious activities such as publicly praying or toting around a Bible is a sure-fire way to get arrested, detained, or expelled from the state.

No cars in Kaesong in the south of North Korea. Like going 50 years back in time

7: Don’t break the rules.

Breaking a rule of the tour will not only put your life in danger, but will also put your guide at risk. He or she will face imprisonment and even torture for assisting your attempts at alleged espionage. Follow my 7 rules and do not take the rules lightly. If you want to break the rules, North Korea is probably not the right travel destination for you.

8: Vacations abroad

North Koreans are not allowed to go for vacations abroad. This is a violation of human rights, but the people of North Korea are probably unaware of this fact. So know this before you’re trying to get your North Korean citizenship!

About to go play volleyball with locals in North Korea

If you happen to be in North Korea during a national day or festival event like me, locals tend to be more at ease. Like in any culture, celebration, good food and beverages always help break the ice.

I was super lucky attending the May Day celebrations, where I could walk totally freely around myself, get in contact with many locals through sports and even joined a local picnic with karaoke out in the woods!

Absolutely special, but extremely rare you’ll have time on your own in North Korea!

Walking around freely in Pyongyang, North Korea during the May Day Celebrations

Please remember to follow these rules, this is not just any country.. But it surely is a special one.

See you next time, North Korea 👋

Gustav

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Is Scotland A Country?

Posted on April 18, 2019April 20, 2019 by dev

The answer to the question is more complicated than you would think.

Is Scotland a country?

The question of whether Scotland is a country or not may raise some level of confusion because it can fall on either side of the argument. Scotland has its own flag, its own national identity and The Scottish Parliament has the power to make its own laws.

However, it can only make laws on certain areas. These areas are specified in the Scotland Act and are called ‘devolved issues’.

There are eight accepted criteria that form the basis of whether a region is an independent nation or not. A country needs to fulfill all of the criteria to be recognized as an independent State. Scotland meets some of them, but not all of the criterias.

My very first time in Scotland out of many. Here with the Loch Ness Monster

The 8 Criteria

To be an independent country you need to have these 8 criteria accepted!

1: The Territory Must Have Boundaries Recognized Internationally

Scotland has!

Scotland’s territorial extent is based on the Treaty of York of 1237 agreed between the Kingdom of England and Scotland and the subsequent Treaty of Perth of 1266 between Scotland and Norway. However, over time portions of Scotland’s territory were lost. The Isle of Man acquired by the UK and Shetland and Orkney lost to Norway. Scotland’s area is 30,414 square miles.

2: Population

Check too!

In 2017 there’s reported a population of 5,425,400, a rise from the 5,062,011 in 2001.

About 62% of the residents identified as being “Scottish only,” while 18% said they were Scottish and British. 8% of the population identified as “British only” while 4% identified as being of another identity only. Glasgow, with more than 1,2 million inhabitants living in the Greater Glasgow conurbation, ranks as Scotland’s largest city, eventhough Edinburgh is the capital of the nation.

3: An Organized Economy and Economic Activity

Hmmmmmm! This is a tough one!

A country needs to regulate both domestic and foreign trade and disburse the money.

In 2015, Scotland’s economy registered approximately 145 billion British Pounds in GDP. The per capita GDP of Scotland was among the highest in the EU same year. Scotland has an open mixed economy similar to what’s used in western countries, including the UK.

Scotland, however, does not regulate its domestic or foreign trade as the Scottish Parliament is not empowered to do so. Although the Bank of Scotland has the mandate to print money, it only prints the British Pound and does so on behalf of the Central Government.

4: The Power of Social Engineering

Yes! Or?

The Scottish Parliament retains the power to control education as well as social work and training. However, this power does not extend to social security. Scotland’s education system thus differs from that implemented in the rest of the UK.

5: Transportation System

It’s a UK thing!

Although Scotland possesses a transportation system, it is partially controlled by the UK. While Scotland manages rail strategy and funding, the UK, under the Network Rail Infrastructure Limited, operates Scotland’s rail network. Scotland manages ports and harbors and the road network while the UK oversees transport regulation and safety.

6: A Government That Offers Public Services in Addition to Police Power

Yep.. They control home affairs and law in Scotland! But..

The UK Parliament retains the mandate to oversee national security and defense in all parts of the UK. Scotland, through its parliament, has the mandate to control home affairs and law including the courts and the prosecution system.

7: Sovereignty

Nope!

Scotland lacks sovereignty as it is not an independent nation. According to the criteria of sovereignty, no other country should have authority over the particular nation’s territory. The United Kingdom maintains authority over the territory of Scotland

8: International Recognition

This criterion requires that other countries should recognize the sovereignty of the country in question. Scotland does not operate embassies in other nations, and it lacks external recognition.

Holding the Scottish flag in Edinburgh, Scotland

My thoughts – Is Scotland A Country?

Scotland is NOT a member of the United Nations.

But if I had been to every UN country in the World and not Scotland, it would just feel wrong..

If you you ask any British person, they would say, “yes, Scotland is a country”, much as Wales, England and Northern Ireland are. Scotland has an independent parliament, and have their own laws, and you’ll also see them represented by their own sports teams, though they share a military and an economy.

However, they’re also part of a union: the United Kingdom, which only have 1 seat in the UN, all ostensibly ruled by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth. It’s been like that since 1706, with the Act of Union, which brought two countries together – two kingdoms of England and Scotland into the United Kingdom of Great Britain.

Scotland have considered breaking the union on several occasions and becoming a fully-independent nation once more (particularly in the wake of the Brexit), but they elected to remain part of the union, and the alliance between the nations remains pretty strong as it has been for centuries.

Life-size statue of the dog Greyfriars Bobby in Scotland, which Disney made a movie about

Scotland is surely a country within a country.

– Gustav

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3 Days Itinerary Edinburgh, Scotland (First Time Visitors)

Posted on April 18, 2019April 18, 2019 by dev

I’ve just completed a new trip to Scotland, a country I’ve visited several times and been all around, and this is My Ultimate Itinerary for 3 Days In Edinburgh, Scotland, a small city packed with experiences!

Back in Edinburgh, Scotland, again, again

In the footsteps of inventors, artists, and writers, Edinburgh has plenty of things to see and do. I just spent 3 days in Edinburgh and explored much of the city and the Scottish heritage.

3 days in Edinburgh: Day 1 / 3

One of my favourite places to visit in Edinburgh is the upper end of the Royal Mile – known as Castlehill. Here, you’ll find the Castle, several cultural exhibitions, and a couple of incredible places to try local food and don’t forget about the whiskey, which Scotland is world-famous for!

Visit Edinburgh Castle

Every first visit to Edinburgh should begin with a visit to Edinburgh Castle.
Sitting atop Castle Rock, and dominating the city’s skyline, the settlement of the castle dates back to the 2nd century AD. It has played a big role in almost every Scottish battle and is thought to be the most besieged British fortress in history.

Now there’s no longer any British invasion up there, but instead there’s a small tourist invasion. It doesn’t take away any of the beauty of the place and the view from up there is absolutely stunning!

In the castle you’ll also find St. Margaret’s Chapel, which is the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh and the Scottish crown jewels are also on display.

Scotch Whisky Experience

Scotch lovers and anyone that is interested in the national drink of Scotland should pay a visit to the Scotch Whisky Experience, a high-tech, interactive galleria of scotch. Tours range from a one-hour introduction to a three-hour experience with dinner.

The Scotch Whisky Experience also includes the Diageo Claive Vidiz Collection, an extensive collection of over 3,380 bottles of whiskey amassed by a Brazilian whiskey collector that was returned to Scotland in 2006.

You can get to taste the whiskey from the tour also.. Be careful in there – Scotch whiskey is surely among the best in the World!

St. Giles Cathedral

St. Giles Cathedral is located on the Royal Mile, just below the castle. Basically it’s positioned right at the heart of the Scottish capital.

St Giles’ was founded in 1124 and it has been a focal point of the Church of Scotland for almost a thousand years. The Cathedral has a warm atmosphere on the inside and is relatively small and compact with interesting features. Beautiful architecture with unique designs!

Walk the Royal Mile

I always walk a lot when I arrive to a new place and it wasn’t exactly planned here, but I I ended up walking the streets of the Royal Mile in the center, which had a cool medieval vibe.

The Royal Mile takes you back to the *medieval* period

The Royal Mile is Edinburgh’s High Street, a bustling series of streets that run downhill from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. Located at the heart of the Old Town, the Royal Mile is as old as the city itself.

The stretch, which is just about one mile long, is lined with tourist shops, hotels, pubs and more.. You might even find a few Scots playing on bagpipes – not bad!

Admire the sunset from Calton Hill

Calton Hill is undoubtedly one of the best locations for a sunset in Scotland. A great spot to admire the view over Edinburgh, on one of Edinburgh’s main hills, right in the city centre.

Calton Hill is easily accessed. It takes about five minutes to get to the top of the hill from a staircase at Regent Road on the South side, Royal Terrace on the North side, or you can drive up and park – if you’re the lazy type!

3 days in Edinburgh: Day 2 / 3

Hike Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is the place where you can get the chance to climb an extinct volcano.

Edinburgh has two volcanic crags. One is Castle Rock, atop which sits Edinburgh Castle, and the other is Arthur’s Seat. Located in the Queen’s Gardens, Arthur’s Seat is a popular hiking and running destination for locals and visitors. There are several hiking routes to the summit.

On top of Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh, Scotland

Don’t pick the long off-road route like me, unless you like to venture off the beaten path! There’s an easier way up there, but once you’re up, it offers lovely views of the city to one side and the Firth of Forth to the other. Sunrise and sunset are great times to head to the top.

Water of Leith Walk

Leith is located in the north of Edinburgh, and during the shipping heyday was a major port town. It has undergone a major revival since the 1980s and is now home to a vibrant dining and shopping scene.

On the way to the Old Leith Docks, North of Edinburgh

3 days in Edinburgh: Day 3 / 3

If it’s your first time in Scotland, you should take a day trip out of the city on your third day. You can rent a car cheaply and go yourself, or you can go with friends, which will be the cheapest option.

Or you can take a full day tour, offered by Rabbie’s Tours, a local Scottish touring company, that will allow you to see the stunning Scottish countryside, take in a few castles and lochs, and perhaps even taste a little more whiskey. You can pick between some of these tours:

Loch Ness and the Highlands

The beautiful Loch Ness. No Loch Ness Monster at first sight..

This tour winds its way through the Rannoch Moor and Glencoe before arriving at the picturesque (and mysterious) Loch Ness. Guests will learn stories of the Scottish Highlands and have the chance to look out for the Loch Ness Monster on an optional boat tour of the loch.

West Highland Lochs and Castles

This tour explores the Western Highlands, stopping at places like Doune Castle, featured in both Monty Python and Outlander, Kilchurn Castle, set on the banks of Loch Awe, the medieval town of Inverary, and the conservation town of Luss. The route takes guests through the Arrochar Alps and along the shores of stunning Loch Lomond.

Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond

If your’re a Braveheart-fan, this is the Tour!

Mel Gibson, who portrays William Wallace, a late 13th-century Scottish warrior

Visit Stirling Castle, home to several great Scottish battles, and the William Wallace monument. This central region of Linlithgow has important historic significance to the Scots. Leaving Stirling, travel northwest to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and see Scotland in Miniature exhibit at the Trossachs before talking a nature walk along the shores of Loch Lomond.

You can do one of these tours easily yourself or you can go with a tour company like Rabbie’s Tours. It totally depends on which kind of traveler you are!

Stay in Edinburgh?

You can also choose to stay in Edinburgh on the third day as I did this time, as I have been to all the beautiful places mentioned above already and unfortunately for me the weather was pretty bad on my last day here this time, but if it’s your first time in Scotland, you should go to some of these places!
Trust me, it’s great!

If you’re insisting on staying in Edinburgh, you can either visit:

National Museum of Scotland

This place is huge and has something for everyone. The collections of the National Museum of Scotland reveal Scotland’s culture and history up to the present day and has among 12 million objects and specimens in the collection. Pretty awesome and it has a free entrance!

Take a walk

When I asked my Scottish friend about what he thought was the best thing to do in Edinburgh, he said: “Just walk around.”

Edinburgh is such a charming city, small and compact but with so many things to do and see and you just need to walk around. I agree with my Scottish friend, James.. Feel the place, eat the local food, drink the local drinks, get lost, chat to people, soak up the atmosphere!

Edinburgh is an experience you won’t be without and Scottish people are among the friendliest people you’ll find. Such a proud nation and the Scottish accent is just.. I dinnae ken.. Great!

Independence Day, Edinburgh. *Scotland* is a *country*, but not an independent *country, therefore not on the UN list*

Have fun in Edinburgh, Scotland!

Gustav

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