I grew up knowing my father’s undying love for his hometown Tynemouth. He’d say, “You know, in this not so mouth of the tyne place….” We’d buckle up for another ride down Dad’s memory lane.

Tynemouth

Did we believe any stories, though? I must say I did when I was a toddler. Tynemouth all sounded so majestic and peaceful, you see. I often compared it to that town where Belle came from in Beauty and the Beast, even if Dad said that Tynemouth was surrounded mainly by the sea. But as I got older, I began to think that some of his stories were weaved by his wild imagination.

The primary thing I could not fathom was how a place like Tynemouth could be picturesque all over. As per Dad’s words, “You can look at Tynemouth at any angle, and it will be picture-perfect.” I mean, no matter how colorful New York City was, everyone knew that it still had gray areas hidden in the shadows.

Tynemouth is a coastal town located in North East Coast England, known for its rich history and bustling environment. It is home to several landmarks including the Tynemouth Priory and Tynemouth Castle, which dates back to the 11th century. On the coast of Tynemouth lies King Edward’s Bay, which offers stunning views of the North Side Sea.

The Tynemouth Volunteer Life Brigade, founded in 1864, is the oldest life-saving organisation in the UK and operates from a shore station on King Edward’s Bay. It provides a 24-hour emergency service to boats travelling along the River Tyne and out into the North Sea. The brigade is a self-funded charity run by volunteers and funded by donations.

Tynemouth is well connected to other areas in the North East, with Tynemouth Metro Station providing easy access to Newcastle City Centre and South Shields. The town also has excellent road links via the A1058 Coast Road, which connects Newcastle upon Tyne to Whitley Bay.

The main beach in Tynemouth is known as Tynemouth Longsands, which features a range of amenities including a bar, restaurants and cafe. The north pier stands at the mouth of the River Tyne and provides an area for leisure activities such as fishing and crabbing. There are also several other tynemouth beaches nearby, all within walking distance of the North Tyneside Council.

Then, I Had A Relationship Problem

Talks about Tynemouth became far between when I finally moved out of my parents’ borough house and shacked up with my boyfriend, Zac. He was an aspiring theater actor on Broadway when we met while I was completing my medical residency in one of the biggest hospitals in NYC. Although we had only been dating for almost a year, I agreed to live with Zac because I felt like he was the one for me.

Little did I know, Zac was a poser. He had been posing as some wealthy family’s heir among his peers, claiming that acting was among his hobbies. After all, people who had barely broken into the industry typically earn peanuts. Still, he always had new clothes, shoes, and whatnot.

How could Zac afford all those? I bought everything for him. I was not the type of girl who waited for the guy to give me gifts at all times. I was cool even without receiving any material objects as long as the guy is nice to me.

That’s what happened with my tyning relationship with Zac. He’s always apologetic for not having enough money to cover his half of the rent and other bills. Since I made more than enough for myself as a doctor, I told him not to worry about that. In return, he would always have the house cleaned and have warm food prepped for me.

This tyne setup worked until I heard his phone chime while he was in the bathroom one day. Call it a woman’s intuition, but I felt a tyning need to read the text he just got. And when I did, my heart sank.

“Thanks for the lovely night, handsome,” the text read. It came with a naked picture of a woman.

When I confronted Zac, he had the gull to direct the blame on me. He spewed a lot of excuses, such as “You are always on call at work” and “You tend to come home super late and tired.” Well, duh, when you’re the one wearing the pants at home, that’s what happens!

I kicked Zac out that night despite his pleas to wait it out in the morning. I could not be bothered by our tyning relationship – I was sure he had other girls to shack up and tyne with instantly. Still, I could not bear to stay there, so I took a cab and went straight to my parents’ home.

At once, my parents knew that something was up when I asked them to buzz me in the building. Crying, I relayed everything that transpired between Zac and me. My mother, the hot-headed one in the family, wanted to hunt down my ex and make him pay for everything. But I liked my father’s suggestion better.

“Go to Tynemouth and unwind there. A new place might do you some good.”

Tynemouth

Letting Tynemouth Save Me – One Day At A Time

After ending my tyne relationship, I flew to the UK and traveled to Tynemouth. I held tyne expectations in my heart; all I wanted was to escape from New York for a while. However, when I reached Tynemouth, I felt transported to another – calmer – dimension.

Tynemouth Priory and Castle is an iconic landmark in the North East of England. It dates back to 1090, making it one of the oldest Norman sites in Britain. With its impressive castle walls and priory ruins, it provides a fascinating glimpse into medieval life. Visitors can explore the grounds and take in stunning panoramic views of the North Bank.

One of the most popular attractions in Tynemouth is the Tynemouth pier. During the summer months, it’s a great place to sit and watch the boats come and go as well as take part in a variety of activities such as fishing, bird watching and beachcombing. You can also check the Collingwood Monument, watch house, town centre, and railway station in the North East area. If you have a thing for celebrations or have visited Tynemouth before, you can attend the Tyne Festival celebrating King Edward every year.

Most of the structures in Tynemouth looked the same. They were all old but well-kept. There was something about their uniformed appearance that gave me a sense of peace. Then, it also helped that the other side of the area was a never-ending body of water. Seeing, hearing, and even smelling the seas genuinely calmed my tyne nerves.

Final Thoughts And Takeaway

I stayed in Tynemouth for 30 days. I took crash courses in painting and cycling; I was at the small beach every day. I even found some of Dad’s old friends and school counselors and visited their Tynemouth homes.

Tynemouth, a coastal town located in North Tyneside, is steeped in the many scenes of history. It was originally settled during the Iron Age and remains home to the impressive ruins of a Roman Fort. This fort was used for centuries as a strategic defensive point for coastal defence and remained in use throughout both World Wars.

Today, Tynemouth is a vibrant hub of activity. It boasts a number of attractions, including the beautiful outdoor pool located on the seafront and King Edward’s Bay beach. The town also has a large village green and coastal town which regularly hosts festivals, markets and other events throughout the year

Were 30 days in Tynemouth enough? No – it would never be. Tynemouth was a healing place for me. Alas, my life was in New York, and I could not leave that behind. But I promised myself to visit Tynemouth as often as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

I had never lived anywhere but the city in my entire life. 

No, it was not because my parents were born in the concrete jungle like I was. In truth, my mom and dad met, grew up, and fell in love with each other in a tiny town in Tynemouth, where my grandparents still lived.

But they wanted to give me better opportunities than they ever had, so they saved up and moved to NYC before I was even born.

Source: pexels.com

Have you ever been to Tynemouth? Do you know where the place is located? Allow me to share a story with you.

The Tyne Life In The Beautiful City of Tynemouth

I would often see in the movies that kids who got uprooted from their hometown tend to have difficulty fitting in with everyone else. Well, I agree to disagree with that. Despite growing up in New York, I still felt as much of an outsider as my mom and dad ever felt the first time they set foot in the Big Apple.

I was never sure why I felt a tyning sense of belonging in that city. My parents would always ask, “Is anyone bullying you?” I would reply no, and they would not believe me because I would continue to look sad and sluggish.

When I continued to act like that in Tynemouth until middle school, my parents decided to take me to a counselor. Mostly, they are worried that I might be entertaining some tyne suicidal thoughts in my serenity. I would insist that that’s never happened – that I merely had nothing to say – but they had seen too many teenage suicides to take my word for it.

Although seeing a counselor was against my tyne’s wishes, I tried to be as honest as possible when I met one. I told her that I did not feel like I belonged in NYC, and she said that some people tend to feel that way about a location. She clarified to my parents that it’s hardly due to bullying in my case, which allowed them to sigh in relief.

Tynemouth is a coastal town situated on the north bank of the River Tyne, just seven miles east of the Newcastle City Centre. It boasts a bustling town centre full of independent stores, cafes and restaurants and offers something for all the family.

The historic railway tynemouth metro station, which dates back to 1882, lies at the heart of the town and is a great place to start exploring. An ancient watch house, built in 1672 to defend against raids by Dutch ships, stands proudly overlooking the harbour. Close by lies King Edward’s Bay, one of the most popular tynemouth beaches in the North Side Tyneside, with Whitley Bay just a few miles further north.

The Fish Quay, a traditional area of the town popular with tourists and locals alike, offers stunning views of both Tynemouth and North Shields on the north east coast. Here you will find plenty of traditional pubs and restaurants offering delicious fresh seafood caught from the waters surrounding the quay.

St Mary’s Island is one of Tynemouth’s most famous landmarks. Located at the mouth of the River Tyne, this rocky outcrop is home to a lighthouse and two Martello Towers built in 1847 for coastal defence. Visitors can explore its diverse landscape which includes sand dunes, wetlands and fossil formations.

The Grand Parade stretches from the Fish Quay to King Edward’s Bay and is an impressive promenade lined with shops, cafes and a number of historic buildings. These include the old town hall, built in 1855, which now houses the Tynemouth Local History Society and Museum.

Source: pexels.com

Tynemouth

Then, the counselor suggested something we had never done before. “Why don’t you visit your hometown? Your daughter might benefit from the quiet life and fresh air there.”

My parents contemplated it the entire weekend. The reality was that I had never been to that little town in Tynemouth. Mom and dad tend to fly their parents to NYC every year for days of luxury and fun, but it was never to Tynemouth. They insisted that nothing is exciting about seeing fields and waters left and right, so the new arrangement was better for everyone. However, because of my counselor’s suggestion, the prodigal kids had no choice but to come home to the relatively small but lovely town of Tynemouth.

The Unforgettable Experience Of Visiting The Small Town in Tynemouth For The First Time

My parents showed me from the old photos; there was genuinely nothing to see in Tynemouth. Since it was the UK, I expected it to be wet and cloudy all the time, too. But I was pleasantly surprised when,

I saw the sun shining brightly once we landed at Heathrow Airport, Tynemouth.

Tynemouth is a beautiful seaside town located on the north sea of England. It is known for its local legend, Riley’s Fish Shack, which has been around since the medieval times. It is also a popular burial place for Osred II, an English king who lived in the 11th century.

It is an excellent destination for a day trip. Visitors can explore the famous ruins of Tynemouth Priory, take a leisurely walk along the small beach, and enjoy the local seafood restaurants. The town is well known for its delicious fish and chips, as well as other traditional British food, according to its government.

It is part of North Tyneside, an area within the county of Durham. The town is close to Scotland, and its weather can be quite wet, making it a great destination for a rainy day. There are excellent public transport links from Tynemouth to other parts of north east England , as well as to Scotland.

 

Source: pexels.com

The Magnificent Experience

My parents had a lot of pit stops on the way. That made me feel like they were trying to do everything to avoid seeing Tynemouth again. Instead of copying their emotions, though, it made me more interested in finding out what’s so bad in that little town in Tynemouth that they dreaded every minute they got closer to it.

A few hours later, I found out how sorely mistaken my parents were about their hometown. Tynemouth was beyond exquisite! It was a far cry from the modern city I grew up in, but Tynemouth’s tiny houses and buildings held a certain charm that contemporary structures might take forever to have. I looked at my parents, and I saw a pleasant surprise on their faces. Tynemouth was fabulous!

“I see a lot of progress here, but the people managed to maintain that old-town feel. Wow!” my dad could not help but exclaim.

Source: pexels.com

Every day since our arrival, my parents and I would visit their old hangout places with many scenes. Some of them continued to stand up to this day, but the others that got replaced still showed a semblance to the past. We would end each day with a dip in Prior’s Haven or King Edward’s Bay – two of the most famous beaches there in Tynemouth.

Final Thoughts about Visiting The City Of Tynemouth

Tynemouth is a historic district. It is approximately 8 miles east of Newcastle upon Tyne city centre. The area is home to some of the region’s most iconic landmarks, including Tynemouth Priory and Castle, St. Mary’s Lighthouse near Tynemouth pier, and Tynemouth Priory.

The region is highly associated with the city of York, due to its close proximity to the historic walled city and its inclusion in the Northumbria area, according to its map. Visitors to Tynemouth will find a wealth of attractions including cafes, pubs, restaurants, and museums located within the town

Visiting Tynemouth was the perfect counseling advice I got. It was also something that would hopefully stick for the rest of my life. That’s especially true now that my parents have fallen in love with Tynemouth again and cannot wait to visit it soon.

When I told my friends back home about my little adventure out of tyne life, they did not get the appeal of staying in a small town on purpose. Instead of feeling alienated by that, I merely shrugged and thought, “More of this place for me, I guess.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tynemouth famous for?

Is Tynemouth a good place to live?

What county is Tynemouth?

Did the Vikings raid Tynemouth?

Where did most Vikings settle in England?

Where did the Vikings first land in England?

How did the Vikings deal with periods?

Who came first, Celts or Vikings?

What did Vikings call England?

Did Vikings found Russia?

Who are the famous residents of Tynemouth?

What is Newcastle UK known for?

Can you swim in Tynemouth beach?

How safe is Tynemouth?

Does Tynemouth have a beach?

 

 

 

 

Source: pixabay.com

 

Then and now, the beaches of Tynemouth are a constant go-to for locals and tourists alike. The coastlines of this beautiful city are crowded during the summer, despite the several changes seen over the years. During the Victorian period, people hired boats to have a tan and relax while they are in the middle of the crowded beach. Now, these boats are replaced with kayaks and surfboards of the young and old. Most Tynemouth locals believe that going and spending time at the beach has a therapeutic or curative value, which has been proven repeatedly.

Have you ever tried spending time or a day at a beach and coming back home feeling rejuvenated, relaxed, and more alive? Perhaps you will agree with what the people who have visited the beaches in Tynemouth have said – the beach not only produces calming mental health effects but it also helps improve your mental health, physical, and emotional. In fact, it has shown positive material changes in an individual’s brain.

Let us discuss some of the evidence-based of visiting beaches can do to mental health.

A researcher from the England’s University of Exeter reports that the beach’s principle of helping enhance our mental wellness is well-established. Since the 18^th century, medical doctors often prescribed trips to the beach and visiting ‘bath hospitals,’ specifically designed facilities that offered seawater-bathing treatments for people with mental and other mental health conditions. The researcher noted, though, that experts have only begun discovering the ocean’s mental health benefits experimentally in present times.

• Waves From The Sea Creates Negative Ions

The calming sensation that we feel when we are at the beach could lead to molecular alterations occurring in one’s body. The waves from the beaches we visit create negative ions that increase our body’s capacity to absorb oxygen. These ions also balance the body’s serotonin, a chemical formed by the body associated with stress and overall mood. This is one reason why going to the beach has been connected to general wellness and improved mental and physical activity energy. It might even help some people sleep better.

Source: pixabay.com

• Stimulation Of The Prefrontal Cortex

The prefrontal area of the brain is related to self-reflection and emotional expression. This area was found to be activated when ocean water sounds were played. Additionally, scientists took scans of participants of clinical trials that were exposed to sounds of the ocean, and the same results were found.

• Cortisol Levels Are Lowered

The beach may have a relaxing effect on people because of the beautiful sounds that the waves produce. An auditory neuroscientist who was interviewed during the Blue Mind Summit stated that many studies explained the kinds of noises that people find pleasant and comforting and what kinds were considered stress-provoking and distracting. The most soothing sounds are those that produce foreseeable wave configurations. The sound must be adequate to low, soft, and harmonic in frequency with regular gaps. Oceans waves check out all these descriptions. They are very calming to listen to, and they are very soothing to the ears.

Cortisol, a stress hormone, is heightened in the body when traffic and other toxic noises are introduced to humans. When this hormone is increased, health issues like heart disease and ulcers can develop. The soothing sound of the ocean decreases the levels of cortisol in our bodies. Hence, ocean sounds positively impact our overall health and may help avoid possible health conditions.

• The Flat Ocean’s View Pacifies You

The horizontal plant of the ocean’s surface can also provide senses of safety and refuge. Some neuroscientists say that people feel safer when they are somewhere simple, clean, and have salty ocean air feeling. In forests and other wildlife, people need to be cautious and ready for animal attacks. In the city, on the other hand, they need to watch out for villains and lawbreakers. People’s eyes are comforted by the blue colored water at the beach, reflecting the skies, soft waves, and the beautiful horizon that gives us hope and peace of mind where it all makes sense. There is nothing to be afraid of while you sit there watching the view.

From a neurological point of view, we are created to learn to neutralize whatever environment we are in to control our surroundings. When we look at the ocean or walk along a coast, we feel that we are in a stable, foreseeable environment.

Source: pixabay.com

Conclusion

Perhaps the next time you look out your window and see the beautiful glaring sun, why don’t you go for a walk at the beach? You’ll realize that you won’t find it so hard to feel positive throughout the day. You’re doing yourself a favor. If you want more love and good vibes within your family, then take them with you and share the gift of only getting all the good benefits of the beach.

FAQs

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I come from a close-knit family. My relatives were the type of people who wanted to make every occasion an excuse to get together. Sometimes, we had valid reasons, such as a birthday, wedding, graduation, or house blessing. Other times, it was merely because someone got a haircut, learned a new recipe, or found a new movie that’s apparently worth raving about to the family.

Then, when my cousins and I turned into adults, we started to relocate to various parts of the world. My eldest sister moved first to California after getting married to her long-time boyfriend. One cousin got transferred to Paris by the modeling agency that she was working for. Others moved to Japan, Germany, Canada, and different states. I was the last to relocate to the UK because that’s where my company’s headquarters was.

I honestly thought that the family reunions would stop because of the significant distance between all of us. Not everyone could come home all the time either due to our responsibilities at work. However, the elders took it as an opportunity to travel the world to visit every family member. They made us promise that we would meet once a year, be it in the US or anywhere else in the world. 

I must admit that this scheme was not too shabby. When we went to my sister’s place for the first time, she brought us to this beautiful vineyard that her husband’s family owned. I only remembered half of the visit, though, because I indulged too much on the unlimited wine that they served. When the others got visited, they followed my sister’s lead and took the family to different tourist spots that they knew we hadn’t been to before. 

This year, I faced a slight dilemma when I found out that it was my turn to host the family reunion. Everyone had their tickets booked already, and they would be arriving at different times throughout the day. I often told them how much I loved the UK whenever we chatted, but I honestly had no idea where to bring a bunch of people whose ages ranged from 0 to 77 years old.

Unable to handle the pressure anymore, I decided to ask my local co-workers for advice. Many of them told me not to go far and book a tour in London where we were all staying. But others suggested that we should get out of the city and go to the not-so-little town of Tynemouth.

Visiting Tynemouth

I took my colleague’s advice seriously; that’s why I found myself traveling to Tynemouth one weekend. My goal was to scope the place an entire day, stay overnight, and decide the next day if it was ideal for a massive group of people.

However, I had only been in Tynemouth for six hours, and I was already in love with it. Something was enchanting about the preserved structures in this town. I had visited other historical places before, and they gave me the creeps, but Tynemouth didn’t scare me. Trying to be objective here, I could say that it was an ideal location for family reunions because of the following:

Everyone Loves The Beach

The first thing that hooked me was the beach at Prior’s Haven. I had seen more beautiful beaches than that, complete with white sand, restaurants, and all, but its selling point was that it was hidden from view. If we could go there during a non-peak season, we could have the beach all to ourselves. Hence, there was no need to worry about strangers doing inappropriate things about us, and everyone could sunbathe and swim in peace.

Tynemouth Has An Interesting History

At first glance, the town seemed like it was always so serene. But when you look at its history, you would realize that it’s far from that.

I am no expert at Tynemouth history, but I learned that a few ships sank near its shores in the 19th century. Various wars also erupted there, considering people in the olden times used to travel by water. 

I figured it was perfect for the elders in the family who enjoyed a great story.

Cycling Is A Family Favorite

Riding a bike was technically a rite of passage in our family. At the age of five, everyone already had their training wheels off and knew how to cycle on their own. Even our grandparents would go on a bike with us around the park.

With everything so picturesque in Tynemouth, I was sure that my family would not pass up the opportunity to ride around the town. That’s especially true once they realized that they could tour the entire place in one day on two wheels.

Final Thoughts

The reunion finally happened, and as expected, no one came home without a smile on their face. Without a doubt, we would go back to Tynemouth again soon.

 

 

Source: forketers.com

 

Eating out during this current pandemic still comes with specific hazards. Here are a few questions that are answered by health experts and other leaders from different sectors. Generally, cafes and restaurants have been recommended to lessen their seating capacity or, in some countries, not to open at this time. For instance, most restaurants in America are advised only to accommodate 50% of people indoors. In the United Kingdom (including Tynemouth), most of their food establishments have closed their doors to prevent or stop the spread of COVID-19. Across the globe, social distancing guidelines are suggested, but not all countries enforce them appropriately. Thus, restaurants are forced to create their protocols for making their place safe for their employees and clients. In some areas, restaurants have reopened despite the strict measures being recommended. So the question is: If there were a chance that restaurants are open in your place, would you go? Is it safe?

 

With so much vagueness there is about the coronavirus, along with its continued proliferation and a testing procedure that isn’t reliable enough to identify and segregate everyone infected, it’s still not safe at all to announce businesses to reopen and restrictions to be lifted in public sectors. Although some states state that theirs is as safe as it should be, truthfully, there is no such thing is safe during this time, as safe means ‘zero risks.’ And since ‘zero risks’ is impossible, how can we minimize the threats that come with reopening businesses? Given the possible methods of transmission of the COVID-19 disease, would you consider dining out indoors or outdoors? With masks on or off? How would you pay?

 

Questions And Answered

 

These are queries that restaurant owners are contemplating right now, as a lot of them are getting ready to reopen. Others also ask businesses what their plans are to avoid virus transmission. There are also basic measures that all should think about and comply with, like getting updates from your community health sector about whether or not the coronavirus cases have decreased, practicing proper hygiene and other infection-control habits, and choosing delivery or takeout if cases in your area continue to rise.

 

Source: en.wikipedia.org

 

So what if your restaurant is bigger and with bigger spaces that can accommodate socially distanced tables? Is it safer than smaller restaurants? Apparently, yes. A larger, well-ventilated restaurant with more stringent restrictions in terms of the number of people permitted to dine in, and the number of people serving the customers is the safest. If you have a bigger area, you can organize the tables six feet farther from each other. Thus, a smaller restaurant poses a higher risk for the spread of infection, because sitting near someone who is infected poses as the highest risk so far. Proper ventilation is also a must.

 

Another question is: If I would eat at a restaurant with my family, should I be concerned about how many of us are going to sit in one table? How many is too much? According to the CDC, group gatherings should be limited to no more than 10, although other experts believe that a group this size would still be risky. If you’re with people that you’re living with, it’s fine. However, if you’re meeting with friends, eight or more is not a safe number.

 

Studies frequently reveal that the virus reproduces easily among groups of people in closed or small areas. The infection has been shown to happen when people from various households come together for certain activities that are done indoors, like dinner in a restaurant.

 

Source: commons.wikimedia.org

 

Summary

 

Dining out and social distancing is two things that still can’t be seen in all restaurants. People have trouble distancing themselves while sitting on a restaurant table, and they can’t wear masks when they’re eating. Thus, the risk of spreading the virus is clear. The best decision, then, is to continue limiting group dinners in restaurants. It is better not to introduce yourself with people that you haven’t been in close contact with for the past weeks. It is only safe to eat with those you’re living with. There is no ideal dining size, but the general rule would be the fewer, the better.

 

 

 

 

Indeed, these are not ordinary days, especially for people from Italy, the Philippines, New York, Wuhan, and all other areas that are hit devastatingly by COVID-19. These days are not ordinary for those who are seeing the pandemic realistically, feeling the anxiety and stress of fighting against an invisible villain that has been making chaos in our world mentally, physically, emotionally, and economically. While we are on lockdown with very strict guidelines established in place all over the world, a lot of people, including me, ask if they can still possibly travel and fulfill their life long dreams.

A friend of mine who owns a famous travel planning company told me that the global community is influenced by the promise of discovering the world and the different places that we are presented with when we leave our homes to travel. Of course, recommending you to travel now would be so irresponsible, so he didn’t. Instead, he gave me some useful advice to help me plan for my future journeys.

Concisely, he suggested that I postpone my trips and travel dreams – postpone, not cancel. He recommended that look forward to the fall season, within September and December 2020, when clinicians and researchers foresee that it’ll be clearer and virus-free. Nobody can guarantee this precisely, but it does give us a timeline to be hopeful for beautiful things to come soon.

Soon we will find our way back to the beautiful world again – the world that included chefs, drivers, friends, and everyone who makes traveling so rewarding. Carrie Goldberg, travel director of Bazaar.com, says that his heart aches when he hears people asking whether or not trips to Rome, Venice, or Tuscany will ever be open again, as these places mean a lot to him. He continues that he will surely be the first one to go back to Milan or Venice when it’s safe to do so. The visions of him eating in one of the local restaurants or simply having coffee at the corners of Tuscany is what’s helping him get through the pandemic.

Planning Your Bucket List

My friend assured me that I would travel again. When these restrictions and quarantine implementations that are placed for our good are finally released, when we will be free from the chains of the coronavirus, we will all need to go out. We need a vacation. He embraced me, saying, “When you will be allowed to on vacation, the world will still be there.”

So in the meantime, I am following his advice and coming up with a bucket list of my dream vacations when the world will be ready for me. I have always dreamed of a long journey that will change and rejuvenate me. It doesn’t matter if I’m in Vietnam having a taste of their delectable cuisine or in Paris being swept away by the romance of it all. I wouldn’t mind learning about the culture in Africa or why dramas in Korea are so sellable. I am just thinking of a trip that will somehow correct the uncertainty of the past months. The desire to go places has always been in my mind, no matter where that is.

Today, I am fixing my bucket list. What of the beaches in Hawaii – a beautiful place that is filled with flowers, trees, and everything tropical. I’m planning a family vacation in one of the rivers in our hometown, where we can set a bonfire and grill some barbecue and smores. There’s no better way to forget about all the negativity that we’ve gathered from this self-isolation than to celebrate freedom with the family?

Another thing that I added to my list is catching up with friends from afar. That, I haven’t done in such a long time – quarantine or no quarantine. If there is one realization that I had amid this crisis, it is that life is short – it only takes a virus to stop someone from breathing. I have friends from around the world, so I’ll be doing myself a favor of finally being able to keep in touch with them and, of course, traveling! Now I think that’s one of the best ways to live life.

 

The 2019 Tynemouth Summit encourages volunteers and tourists to join hundreds of clean-ups around the country. As the coastline continues to suffer from pollution, they appeal to thousands of visitors to ensure they’re not leaving litter on the beaches. It is fundamental when traveling, to follow and respect the rules put in place. 

While exploring new destinations is rejuvenating, a traveler has to conduct proper behaviors when visiting new places. Here are some of the travel etiquette you need to follow when you’re traveling: 

1. Don’t Litter

Not only when you’re traveling, but littering has never been a proper thing to do. You have to pick your trash and put it in the appropriate place. At least while you’re enjoying your trip, you can also preserve the environment while you’re at it. There are no countries that would allow or adore a visitor with no respect for their surroundings. Follow the rules and guidelines of the country’s waste management. 

2. Try To Learn The Language And Custom

You don’t have to join a language course before you travel, but a simple translation to the words like “hello” or “nice meeting you” to the place you’re visiting will suffice. You also have to be mindful of the way the site greets each other. Some countries prefer bowing, shaking hands, or kisses on the cheek when greeting, while some don’t even do physical contact. In this way, you will understand certain gestures and not get surprised by it. 

3. Dress Appropriately

When traveling, you have to be respectful of the culture of the place you’re visiting. One factor in this is appropriately dressing, depending on their tradition. Try to wear clothes that are as close as the locals or cover up the knees and elbows to be sure. If you want to know more, you can ask the people around you or conduct a quick search on the internet.  

4. No Matter What, Be Polite

Remember that you’re a visitor and be courteous when you’re interacting with the locals. People would always want to engage with a friendly person, so be polite no matter what. For example, if you don’t like the food put in your table, don’t show your disgust and try to eat a small bite. In some cases, insulting their food may mean insulting their culture. So be wary.

There used to be a time when people go on a trip and focus on having fun. All they had was the name of the city or town that they wanted to visit. These folks might know a hotel or resort as well, but that’s mere because a friend or advertisement informed them about it. And when they reach their destination, they let loose and try to do as much as possible before leaving.

Nowadays, when folks travel, they do not care much about the number of activities they can do in one place. They use the internet to search for a location where there are plenty of camera-friendly areas. They manage to stop at a few hotspots, but their goal is to take a lot of photos instead of appreciating the structures or the view.

In all honesty, nothing seems wrong with how the people in the modern age spend their vacation. Others say that everyone is becoming less appreciative of what we have, but I don’t think that’s the case. We merely focus on capturing what we see and then sharing it with the rest of the world.

The only issue that always comes up during vacations is internet connectivity. You don’t have to worry if you’re traveling to another city. It means that you will still get a signal from your telecom company. However, if your destination is another country, you may have to look for a different way to stay connected online.

Here are a few ways to be virtually safe while traveling.

Avoid Public Hotspots

Terminals, restaurants, and café often boast about offering free Wi-Fi to their customers. Some come with a password; others you can connect to openly. Most individuals, however, are attracted to the latter because it entails that they can stand outside of the establishment to use their internet.

The thing is, open Wi-Fi connections are easy to access not only by tourists like you but also by hackers. Who’s to say that hacktivists are not baiting you with the internet to be able to get your personal information? To be on the safe side, therefore, you ought to avoid public hotspots altogether.

Buy 4G Or LTE SIM Card

Assuming your smartphone has an open line, you can remove your SIM card for a while and replace it with a local one from the country that you’re visiting. You see, even when you go to a third-world nation, you can find prepaid SIM cards that come with an internet connection. It may cost you a little more than usual, but it can undoubtedly reduce your chances of getting hacked.

Use A VPN

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. It is not as mainstream as other internet services, but it is starting to gain popularity all over the world. The reason is that VPN encrypts whatever data you are sending or receiving, thus keeping you safe from hackers

Final Thoughts

No matter how much you enjoy staying connected virtually when you’re traveling, you should be aware of how you are getting the internet. Not all connections are secure, especially not the ones without passwords. Remember the tips above to ensure your internet safety anywhere.

Good luck!

I love the idea of traveling to a foreign place every summer. For someone who rarely sees the sun, I have to go to a tropical location to enjoy the beach. It is a perfect opportunity for me to get a natural tan and resemble a bronzed goddess, even if it may only last for a few days. Of course, it feels incredible to bury my feet in the sand and feel the waves crash on my legs.

The thing is, I am the only one in my family who loves going to a new place all the time. When I brought my parents to Cabo, Mexico several years ago, they wanted to go back there every year after that. My father said, “We already know our way around Cabo, and it’s a beautiful location. Why should we have to go somewhere else and risk getting lost?”

As repetitive as I may sound, I reiterate to my parents how we can avoid getting lost in a foreign place. Let me share the steps I take to ensure that.

Do Extensive Research About The Town/City

One of the vital things you can do before the trip is doing extensive research about the towns or cities that you’ll visit. The internet is your best friend during this phase. When you type a particular location, dozens of information will pop up. You may be able to find blogs from people who have been there.

In case you want to see things for yourself, you can find a street view version of a place. It entails that you will see a panoramic image and even be able to “walk” around the streets.

Figure Out The Routes

Considering you know which places you want to visit, your next goal is to search for the routes that will take you there. Start from the airport, bus terminal, train station, or wherever you will come from. Find out how far your hotel is from a theme park, a famous restaurant, etc. At least a couple of routes may appear so that you won’t feel lost at all.

Know The Best Mode Of Transportation To Reach A Particular Destination

Another thing to think about is your mode of transportation in a foreign place.

When you consult Google maps, you will realize that the best way to travel is via a private car. You can look for shortcuts, go anytime you want, and not worry about sitting next to strangers. However, trains and buses may bring you faster to your destination than a vehicle that you will drive.

Remember The Names Of Key Establishments

Lastly, you should remember the name of your hotel, the street it is in, the café near it, and other establishments that can lead you back to your accommodation. You cannot forget this, especially if you are in a place where English isn’t the primary language. Even when you cannot communicate fluently with the locals, they may recognize the key locations and point you there.

Final Thoughts

Still scared of getting lost in a foreign place? Don’t be. Follow the tips above and travel confidently.

Good luck!

 

 When my therapist advised me to take a leave from work and take care of myself, I immediately thought about my long-overdue trip to Tynemouth, where one of my close friends is currently living. She’s been telling me to visit her ever since she got married to a Tynemouth resident and I’ve always refused because of my job that demands so much of my time. Now that the advice came from a professional, I knew it was the perfect timing, especially because it was summertime. The stress and anxiety were killing me. Besides, Kate promised to eliminate most if not all of that negativity after the trip.

 

Beach Fun

To cut the story short, for my first day, Tynemouth – and Kate – didn’t fail me at all. We went to the beautiful beaches that the village was known for, which were almost always packed with locals and tourists who were so eager to have those tan lines when the day was done. We had lunch at the King Edward’s Bay, where we met with some of Kate’s friends who were just as cool as she was. It was a satisfying lunch. Food was great, as I expected since Tynemouth is popular for its varying choices of gastronomical treats. In the afternoon, we did some summer fun at Longsands, an awesome beach with fine golden sand and a vista that was worth waiting for the sunset. I couldn’t remember the last time I felt so light and relaxed.

Kate’s friends brought some sports gear, and we had a lot of fun playing Frisbee while burning those calories from the slabs of barbeque I ate for lunch. We also had a game of volleyball with some of the tourists who were also there just for the summer.

Pub Crawl – A Night To Remember!

The next day, we woke up late. It felt great not to be running around at six in the morning, anxious and nervous about a presentation or in a hurry because you have another company meeting. I just went with the flow – the slow, rejuvenating flow of the Tynemouth summer. We were getting our energies refueled for the most-awaited British Pub Crawl later that evening. I read that the place had more than 20 pubs that were just a few meters from each other, so we had various options on where to drink and get drunk! Our route was one that would tour us around town and stopping by the main clubs, and then we end at the Metro station for the last trip home.

The Cumberland Arms was the first pub we tried. We had a pint of bitter, as suggested by Kate – and Google – and a pint was more than enough for me to feel initially dizzy (no way, not on my first pub!). It was a little expensive, and the music was not my type. So after 30 minutes, we transferred to the Turk’s Head, a unique pub located in a lovely Victorian building. It was surrounded with eccentric historical structures, is conveniently nestled on the town’s main street. Drinks were cheaper, and it was more fun than the Cumberland Arms.

We visited three more pubs before we headed to our last destination for the night – the Head of Steam. A relatively new pub and one of the busiest at the moment, the Head of Steam served strong mixed beverages, particularly the long island iced tea. The intoxication was freedom for my soul, and I shamelessly danced with the live band music, marking the end of a great evening.

 

Curry, Chips, And More

I couldn’t enumerate all my favorite restaurants because there are a lot! I just listed a few below that blew my taste buds away.

Plaza Tandoori. I’m a ‘curry’ fan, and Kate knows this, so she brought me to this curry house, which was near the beach. The Tandoori is also the locals’ favorite. I was lucky to go on a Thursday where I experienced their delicious and satisfying 5-course meal.

The Davanti was Tynemouth’s popular Italian restaurant. It was classy and the cuisine – grilled duck breast in barbeque sauce to name one – was the epitome of Italian food made perfectly delicious.

For great food that was relatively affordable, we chose to check out the Village Bistro one afternoon. This place is also located near the beach, so people flock there to buy sandwiches and other snacks and take them to the sand for an afternoon picnic.

 

Worth The Visit

On the way back home, I had a clearer mind that was ready to go back to work. I would say my Tynemouth summer trip is one I will not forget. I’m happy that now I have somewhere to go when I need an anxiety and stress-free break.