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Discover Latest #Caravan News, Articles and Videos with Contenting
Caravan News The latest caravan news from around the world, updated daily. 1. Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visits refugees on Greek island of Lesbos 2. Australia’s refugee crisis continues as court orders asylum seekers to remain on Christmas Island 3. Syrian refugees in Lebanon face increasing pressure and displacement 4. Mexico launches emergency plan to help Central American migrants 5. UN refugee agency appoints new Special Envoy to help tackle global displacement 6. EU to launch new emergency relocation scheme for refugees 7. US court orders Trump Administration to allow refugees in 8. Germany pledges $6.6 billion aid package for refugees 9. UNHCR launches new global campaign to tackle refugee crisis 10. UN urges countries to step up efforts to protect refugees Caravan Articles 1. “The Global Refugee Crisis: Causes, Challenges, and Solutions” by Peter B. O’Brien, Refugee Studies Centre 2. “A Global Overview of the Refugee Crisis” by Amnesty International 3. “The Refugee Crisis: What’s Really Going On?” by the International Rescue Committee 4.
I Fell for These Vegas Tourist Traps—Learn From My Mistakes - We3Travel
Las Vegas is a city of lights, entertainment, and endless excitement. However, amidst the glitzy facade, there are traps designed to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists. Here are five experiences that, while tempting, left me feeling more like a gullible tourist than a savvy traveler. The Gondola Ride at The Venetian The allure of a […]
Helly Hanson - Hiking Gear Review - jugglingonrollerskates
When I hear Helly Hanson I think of sailing, or maybe skiing – but not necessarily hiking. With all their years of expertise in designing extreme sports gear they’ve become pretty clued on kitting us adventurous types out for a range of conditions and activities. Hiking and is just one of many outdoor pursuits they cater for, so I thought it was about time I check out this major player in the outdoor clothing market. I worked with the brand who provided the reviewed items for the purpose of this review, however as ever feedback will be my own thoughts and sincere opinions. Women’s Vancouver Rain Jacket Priced at £120 and available in a range of colours this jacket is light weight, durable and pleasing to the eye. I particularly like the range of colours they have for the Vancouver which include feminine tones like violet and peach. I opted for Green Mist which I love. A lot of my outdoor clothing tends to be in quite neutral tones so this is a breath of fresh air. The jacket is made well. The zip is clean and easy to use. It feels sturdy and as though it will stand the test of many a hardy hike. The jacket also features a 2-layer construction, full seam-sealing, adjustable hood and hem, zipped hand pockets, and elastic cuffs, ensuring both a comfortable and functional experience. It fits perfectly feeling warm but not restrictive. Definitely a keeper. Women’s HH LIFA® Active Solen Tank Priced at £40 the Solen Tank is designed to offer protection from the sun during all days hikes. I ordered a large which was probably the wrong size for me. It felt a bit too baggy and shapeless. I’m usually a size 12 so would recommend ordering a medium if you’re a similar size. Despite my error in the sizing I really liked the material which feels incredible breathable thanks to their Lifa active technology which moves moisture away from the skin. I also really like the freshness of the bright white. I’m terrible at keeping whites white so the novelty of wearing something so sparkling clean totally won me over! Women’s Daybreaker 1/2 Zip Fleece Priced at £65 the day breaker fleece is a cosy staple that you can’t go without. Again, coming in a range of colours this fleece is available in almost every possible shade – with some colours now on offer at just £33. This is the type of top I’ll wear endlessly in the winter. Soft to the touch, super warm and easy to wear it works perfectly as an underlayer in colder weather. An absolute classic and something I’ll be wearing endlessly. Whilst Helly Henson isn’t always the most affordable outdoor brand out there, they make quality garments that will live up expectations. I think they are especially worth considering when investing in more technical clothing such as jackets. I’ve been impressed with the products I’ve reviewed and will definitely be adding them to my kit list. If you’d like to explore their full range check out their website here.
A Summer Cultural Journey Through Japan’s Artistic Soul | Arigato Travel
As a car speeds by the shore, slicing through the shimmering heat, it carries our imagination of a perfect summer. In Japan, summer isn’t just about stunning natural landscapes—it’s also a gateway to a world of vibrant cultural experiences. From traditional craft workshops to artistic strolls through contemporary art museums, Japan’s summer charm offers something truly special. There’s no end to the discoveries that can be made nationwide during the hotter months. So without further ado, here’s a curated guide to Japan's best artistic and cultural experiences this summer. Experience Japanese Art With Hands-on Craftsmanship Discover Traditional Stencil Dyeing at “Some no Sato Ochiai” Located near Shinjuku, Some no Sato Ochiai is a dyeing workshop with a history spanning 105 years. This storied establishment carries on the rich tradition of Japanese textile artistry, preserving techniques passed down through generations. But, it’s more than just a place to observe history; it offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in hands-on dyeing techniques, creating unique textile pieces with guidance from skilled artisans. Whether you're looking to explore a centuries-old craft or simply escape the summer heat into a calm, creative retreat, this workshop provides an enriching and memorable cultural experience. One of the standout experiences here is stencil dyeing, a technique that traces its origins back to China, ultimately being refined in Japan into a distinct and intricate art form. Visitors can experiment with a variety of stencils and natural dyes, combining creativity and tradition to craft their own masterpiece. Friendly artisans guide participants through the process step by step, ensuring that both adults and children can enjoy the experience regardless of skill level. But that’s not all. The workshop also offers other hands-on activities, including fabric printing and plant-based dyeing, catering to a wide range of creative interests. And, if you're lucky, you may even witness Takahashi Takayuki, a renowned artisan, demonstrating his signature “ink-flowing” technique, which creates mesmerizing, water-like patterns on fabric. Watching the delicate dye flow and settle is a true visual delight you’re sure to remember for the rest of your life. Some no Sato Ochiai offers a unique opportunity to experience Japan’s rich textile arts through hands-on dyeing workshops. Reservations are required, as some activities are held irregularly, so it is essential to check availability in advance. Whether you are a traveler looking for a memorable souvenir-making experience or a local seeking a relaxing and creative escape, this is the perfect place to immerse yourself in traditional craftsmanship and create your own beautifully dyed piece of history. Address: 2 Chome-3-6 Kamiochiai, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 161-0034, Japan Opening Hours: Tuesday - Sunday: 11 AM - 5 PM (closed Mondays) Website: https://www.ochiai-san.com/ Experience Pottery Making at “at Kiln Aoyama” Tucked away in Minato, Tokyo, at Kiln Aoyama offers a hands-on pottery experience right in the heart of the city. If you've ever wanted to try your hand at shaping clay but weren’t sure where to start, this studio makes the process easy and enjoyable. Whether you're a complete beginner or someone looking to refine your skills, the instructors provide just the right balance of guidance and creative freedom. The 90-minute session is designed to be both structured and fun. The first half is all about learning—an instructor walks you through the techniques and demonstrates the process. Then, the real fun begins. In the next 45 minutes, you get to create your own piece, whether it’s a cup, bowl, or plate. The studio provides you with everything you need, from high-quality clay to inspiration, so all you have to do is enjoy the process. Once you're done, your piece will be glazed and fired by the studio, ready for pickup in about a month. On a hot summer day, spending time in a cool, quiet studio, feeling the smooth clay in your hands, and focusing on the rhythm of shaping and molding can be an unexpectedly refreshing escape. Whether you’re looking for a unique keepsake or simply a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, this workshop offers a creative retreat from the summer heat. Address: Japan, 〒150-0021 Tokyo, Shibuya, Ebisunishi, 1 Chome−5−1 WM Yebisu, 1F Opening Hours: Thursday - Tuesday: 11 AM to 7 PM (closed Wednesday) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atkiln/?hl=en Tokyo’s Art Landmarks: Museums & Galleries The National Art Center Located in Roppongi, the National Art Center in Tokyo stands out as one of Japan’s most unique cultural spaces. Unlike traditional museums, this institution does not have a permanent collection. Instead, it serves as an ever-evolving platform for exhibitions, showcasing a diverse range of artistic expressions from Japan and beyond. The building itself, designed by architect Kisho Kurokawa, is an architectural masterpiece that seamlessly blends art with structure, making it a destination worth visiting even before stepping into an exhibition. One of the most striking features of The National Art Center is its expansive glass façade, which allows natural light to flood the space, creating a dynamic interplay between the artwork and its surroundings. Kurokawa’s design philosophy emphasized “symbiosis with nature,” which is evident in the fluid, wave-like architecture that reflects Japan’s aesthetic principles of minimalism and harmony with the environment. Beyond the exhibitions, the museum is designed as a multifunctional cultural space. Visitors can explore the art bookstore, participate in workshops, or simply enjoy the ambiance in the open, light-filled atrium. For those looking to extend their visit, the on-site restaurant and café provide a perfect place to reflect on the art over a meal or cup of coffee. Address: 7 Chome-22-2 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo 106-8558, Japan Opening Hours: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 10 AM - 6 PM. Friday, Saturday: 10 AM - 8 PM (closed Tuesdays) Admission Fee: Adults - 1800 yen College Student - 1000 yen High School Student - 500 yen Website: https://www.nact.jp/ Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo - MOT The MOT is one of Japan’s leading institutions for modern and contemporary art. The museum houses a diverse collection of works spanning paintings, sculptures, installations, video art, and media-based exhibitions, offering visitors an ever-evolving insight into the world of contemporary creativity. Designed with an expansive and open layout, MOT allows visitors to explore its galleries at their own pace, making it an ideal space for both deep artistic contemplation and casual discovery. Its rotating exhibitions highlight not only renowned international artists but also emerging Japanese talent, ensuring that each visit offers something new and thought-provoking. For those interested in Japan’s contemporary art scene, MOT serves as both a cultural landmark and an engaging creative space, seamlessly integrating global influences with Japan’s distinct artistic vision. Address: 4 Chome-1-1 Miyoshi, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0022, Japan Opening Hours: Tuesday - Sunday: 10 AM - 6 PM Admission (varies depending on the exhibit): Adults - 500 yen to 2000 yen College Students - Free to 1800 yen High & Junior High - Free to 1800 yen Elementary & younger - Free Website: https://www.mot-art-museum.jp/ Ghibli Museum A must-visit for fans of Studio Ghibli, this museum brings the world of animation to life with its enchanting exhibits, featuring meticulously crafted displays that highlight the artistic genius of Hayao Miyazaki. Visitors can step into immersive, hand-drawn worlds that capture the essence of beloved Ghibli films such as My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Princess Mononoke. The museum also includes a short, exclusive Ghibli film that can only be viewed on-site, offering a unique cinematic experience. The whimsical architecture, designed with an organic and playful aesthetic, perfectly embodies the spirit of Ghibli. From exploring the rooftop garden with a giant Laputa robot to discovering hidden passageways, every corner of the museum is an adventure waiting to be explored. Be sure to visit the museum’s cozy café, where you can enjoy themed treats inspired by Ghibli movies. Tickets must be purchased in advance as entry is limited and demand is high. Address: 1 Chome-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo 181-0013, Japan Opening Hours: Wednesday - Monday: 10 AM - 6 PM (closed Tuesdays) Admission Fee: 19 and over - 1000 yen 13 to 18 - 700 yen 7 to 12 - 400 yen 4 to 6 - 100 yen 3 and under - Free Website: https://www.ghibli-museum.jp/ Okuno Building Amid Ginza’s sleek luxury boutiques and high-rise buildings, the Okuno Building stands as a quiet yet powerful reminder of Tokyo’s artistic evolution. Originally constructed in 1932 as an upscale apartment complex, this historic building has since been transformed into a hub for independent art galleries, preserving its pre-war charm while fostering a vibrant contemporary art scene. Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by dimly lit hallways, creaky wooden floors, and an old-fashioned cage elevator, still in operation after nearly a century. Unlike the polished, modern galleries found elsewhere in the city, the exhibitions here feel intimate and personal. Many of the galleries are run by the artists themselves, offering an opportunity to engage in conversation and gain deeper insights into their work. The art on display spans a wide spectrum, from traditional Japanese paintings to experimental mixed-media installations, ensuring that no two visits are ever the same. Beyond the galleries, the building also houses vintage boutiques and design shops, making it a haven for those who appreciate both art and history. The Okuno Building is a rare place where time seems to stand still—where past and present, history and creativity exist in harmony. For those looking to experience a different side of Ginza, away from its luxury storefronts, this hidden gem offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s independent art scene, where every corner tells a story and every space invites discovery. Address: 1 Chome-9-8 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan Opening Hours: 7 days a week Evening Art Experience: teamLab Planets As the sun sets over Tokyo, the city’s energy transforms, and nowhere is this more evident than at teamLab Planets. Unlike traditional museums, teamLab’s exhibitions are not meant to be simply observed—they are meant to be felt, walked through, and fully experienced. Using digital technology, light, and water, this immersive art space creates dreamlike environments where visitors become part of the artwork itself. Address: 6 Chome-1-16 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan Opening Hours: 7 days a week: 9 AM - 10 PM Admission: Adults (18 years and above) - 3800 yen Junior High/High School - 2800 yen Children (Ages 4-12) 1500 yen Under 3 years - Free Disability discount - 1900 yen Website: https://www.teamlab.art/jp/e/planets/ Whether you are deeply passionate about art or simply looking for a unique way to spend your summer, Japan offers a rich cultural landscape filled with unforgettable experiences. Imagine shaping your own ceramic piece in a quiet pottery studio, feeling the cool clay in your hands as you mold it into something truly your own. Picture yourself exploring a museum where contemporary masterpieces and thought-provoking exhibitions open new perspectives on art and creativity. Step into the immersive world of
The Art of Cold Brewing Japanese Green Tea | Arigato Travel
For those who share a keen interest in Japan, anime and J-dramas/movies must have been a gold nugget for learning more about the country’s rich culture. After all, who didn’t try ramen for the first time after watching their favorite character gulp down a hot bowl? Or grab some sushi after seeing the image of a glistening platter of colorful pieces of fish? Aren’t these a little bit cliche, you may ask? It is a question of perspective, I would say. We shouldn't ignore the fact that some of these have a special place in the lives of the locals. Take Japanese green tea (ocha), for example. Whenever a protagonist enters a place, he is often offered ocha as a form of greeting. And in summer, when he comes home, exhausted from the heat of the day, he immediately goes to the fridge. He opens the door, takes out a jar of cold, oh, sweet cold, green tea, and pours it into a glass to quench his thirst. Doesn’t it make you want to do the same? Ocha holds an essential meaning in the hearts of the Japanese. As we will see down below, it isn’t just a drink, it is a way of life! Summer is just around the corner, so let’s discover what makes ocha so special, and above all, let me share with you the secrets of brewing it cold! Where it all begins: Camellia Sinensis First and foremost, we must understand the origins of green tea. Ocha, just like black tea, or any other tea, all come from the same plant, known as Camellia sinensis. A plant that can grow up to 30 feet if left alone, and live more than 100 years when properly cultivated. It requires a combination of good climate, altitude, and soil to grow quality tea leaves. Indeed, the plant usually flourishes at an altitude that ranges between 2000 and 6500 feet. The higher the altitude gets, the finer the quality will be. This evergreen shrub originates from China and the Northeastern part of India (Assam), where two different varieties can be found: The Camellia Sinensis Sinensis and the Camellia Sinensis Assamica. The former has small leaves and is native to China, Yunnan Province, to be precise. The Sinensis variety has the advantage of leaving a delicate taste, typically found in our dear ocha or white tea. The Assamica, however, was first discovered in Assam, a northeastern state of India, located south of the eastern Himalayas. The leaves are comparatively bigger and have a stronger taste. Because of this, it is often used to make strong black tea. The legend behind the plant When it comes to origins, green tea has a lot of legends to offer. One of them is the story of the Indian/Persian sage Daruma (Bodhidharma), the 28th patriarch of Mahayana Buddhism and the founder of Chan Buddhism (precursor of Zen Buddhism). According to the myth, around the 5th to 6th century C.E., Daruma arrived at the Shaolin temple in China, and meditated there for nine long years, incidentally losing his legs while doing so. Upon approaching enlightenment, however, he fell asleep. Unable to contain his frustration and anger, regretful of neglecting his devotions, he cut off his own eyelids and threw them upon the ground. In the spot they fell, a tea plant grew, one which, when made into a beverage, would ward off slumber and allow fellow monks to meditate without any hurdles. Another legend credits Emperor Shen Nung (also known as Shen Nong) as the discoverer of tea. The story goes that, in 2737 BC, while the emperor was sitting beneath a tree, his servant was preparing and bringing boiled water. By a twist of fate, just as he was about to fetch the hot drink for his master, some leaves blew from the tree and fell into the water. Shen Nung, being a renowned herbalist, decided to taste the fortuitous concoction. The tree was a Camellia Sinensis, and the newly discovered beverage became tea. Green tea’s first introduction to Japan Besides the legends, there is the history of global trade. Let us take a small detour and enlighten our minds as to how the Sinensis variety came to Japan from China. The habit of drinking tea in Chinese culture dates back long before it was even heard of in the West. Evidence suggests that traces of tea could be found in a tomb dating as far back as the Han dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD). However, it was during the Tang dynasty (618 AD - 906 AD) that it gained popularity and became the national drink of the country. Buddhist monks also began to harvest and use tea as a natural medicine, using it as an aid to meditation, to strengthen their focus, and to fight sleep. At the same time, in an era of world trade practices, many monks would travel back and forth to China and/or India to further their knowledge about Buddhism. Among them, the monks Saichō and Kūkai are said to have been the first ones to bring tea seeds from China to Japan, in the early Heian period (794 AD - 1185 AD). In AD 815, another monk named Eichu brewed tea and offered it to Emperor Saga. It is believed that the monk had traveled to China to learn Kissa’s method (drinking tea). The emperor was so pleased with it that he encouraged the cultivation of tea, and the practice of Kissa spread amongst the elite and noble class. It was only after the return of monk Eisai (founder of the Rinzai school, a branch of Zen Buddhism) from his travels abroad that tea and Kissa became widespread, in 1190. He not only wrote two very successful volumes of the “Kissa Yojoki”, describing the merits of drinking tea, but also discovered a new method of preparing it. Powdering streamed leaves into what we know today as Matcha, and mixing it with hot water with the aid of a bamboo whisk. This newly found method, combined with his Zen lifestyle, heavily influenced the basis of today’s Chado (tea ceremony ~ literal meaning: “the way of tea”). No wonder he is now called the “Father of Tea”! Different types of Green tea in Japan Now that we have learned about the origins, let's dive into some of the diverse varieties of green tea that you could enjoy brewing cold: Matcha: Cultivated using a shade-growing technique, meaning that it was under cover for twenty to thirty days before being harvested. The leaves are then steamed, dried, and finely powdered. Sencha: The most popular green tea served in Japan, it makes up around 80% of the country’s production. Contrary to Matcha, it is cultivated under full sunlight. Once they are harvested, the folia are immediately steamed to not only halt the fermentation process, but also to avoid oxidation. After that, the leaves are rolled and dried. Sencha has a refreshing taste with grassy notes. Gyokuro: Similarly to Matcha, it is also cultivated using a shading technique, albeit for a shorter time. The leaves are then steamed, dried, and rolled into a needle-like shape. It is considered a prime tea in Japan and has an umami flavor to it. Hojicha: Just like Sensha, it is cultivated in the open fields, where it gets exposed to a lot of sunlight. Once harvested, the folia are steamed, dried, rolled, and then roasted. It is known for its smoky and rustic taste. Genmaicha: This tea has the unique feature of being a mix of green tea and roasted, popped brown rice (genmai). It has a toasted flavor that is combined with hints of sweetness. Of course, these are just a few to give you an idea, but be creative and try some other varieties as well! Now, for the best part, let’s get brewing, people! Method No. 1: Hot Brew over Ice A simple 5-step method: Brew your tea as you would normally do with hot water. Extract the tea leaves from your chosen crockery, and let the infusion get to room temperature. Once done, put the brew in the fridge for a minimum of 4 to 5 hours. Take the tea out of the fridge and pour it on top of the ice. Last but not least, enjoy! Method No. 2: Reicha A similar method to the former one, but still quite different and slightly more intricate. Add the tea leaves to your teapot or Kyusu (traditional Japanese teapot). Spout a minimal amount of hot water (around 10 ml per serving) into the vessel. Let the leaves spread. Add ice to the infusion. This step will allow the tea to cool in temperature. Once done, pour water into the mix. Allow it to infuse for 1 minute, and voilà! Method No. 3: Mizudashi The Mizudashi method is one of the easiest. You just need to follow these simple steps: Put the tea leaves inside your teapot. Add cold water to it. Place your infusion in the fridge and let it steep for a minimum of 4 to 5 hours. For a stronger flavor, let it infuse for longer. Mizu in Japanese means water. Therefore, as the name suggests, water is the key element for this method. Method No. 4: Kōridashi The Kōridashi method, also known as Shinobicha, is best used for high-quality tea like Gyokuro. Kōri means ice, so as you will see below, ice is the pillar of this method. Lay down the ice cubes of filtered water inside your teapot. Place the tea leaves directly on top of the ice cubes. Let it melt and start the infusion on its own. Strain it, pour it into a cup and drink it! Method No. 5: Latte All the methods above simply use water, but what if you were craving something creamier, like, for example, a latte? No worries, I have got you covered. First, add ice to a tall glass. Pour your preferred milk on top of it. Whisk your preferred green tea powder with cold, filtered water in a separate bowl. Let it dissolve completely. Add the newly created tea to the glass of iced milk. This will cause a layered effect, but if you prefer, you can also gently stir all the ingredients together to create a smooth and uniform drink. Method No. 6: Japanese Green Tea Soda Yes, you have read me right! Now we are going to make Green tea soda. No, it isn’t a weird combination… well, maybe. But even so, the result and the taste will make it worth your while. Just try it! Place your tea leaves inside the teapot. Pour hot water onto them, just enough to cover them. Wait for 1 to 3 minutes, let it infuse. Now pour your favorite carbonated water (it can be flavored - for example, lemon or lime versions go well with green tea). Strain it and top it with ice! Excellent in all aspects! Cold brewing methods are not only fun to make and creative, but they also tend to have some additional health benefits compared to hot brewing. Cold brew is far less bitter, as the absence of heat produces less caffeine and catechins. It offers a plethora of vitamins and antioxidants, even more than what you may find in hot tea. And to top it off, it has a smoother taste. Combine all this with Japanese green tea, and here you have the perfect combination for excellent health! Featured Photo Credit: New Africa Looking for more ways to beat the heat this Summer? Check out our Summer Food Tours for an unforgettable experience!