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Incandescent Yolk by Christopher Stoneman. Image courtesy of http://www.kinetica-artfair.com
Art lovers and techies alike wait with baited breath for February in London when the Kinetica Art Fair returns to wow audiences. A celebration of electronic, light, science, technological, robotic and new media art, the Kinetica Art Fair is nothing short of awe-inspiring and a must see for anyone in the London area.
This year’s event takes place between February 9th and 12th and features an impressive array of work from some of the finest artists in the field. Featured exhibitor Christopher Stoneman uses light and glass to put on a beautiful and mesmerizing display, Alex Allmont’s electronic LEGO designs will delight the child in you, and Studio Roosegaarde’s Liquid Space, a jellyfish-esque device that detects and responds to your presence with lights, sound and motion, is something you cannot miss.
Empress Stah Power. Image courtesy of http://www.kinetica-artfair.com
The Fair also features a wide variety of performances, including Cirque de Soleil veteran and award winning aerial artists Empress Stah Power in a fascinating multimedia extravaganza. In addition, there will be a series of short films, light displays, sound shows, and other mixed-media performances. Don’t worry — if all of this sounds overwhelming to you, there are guided tours available that will ensure you get to experience everything.
The Year of the Rabbit is hopping toward an end as the Year of the Dragon quickly approaches. Liverpool is home to one of the oldest Chinese communities in all of Europe, making it the ideal UK location to celebrate the Chinese New Year.
The celebration begins a day early on January 21st with a Tai Chi demonstration over on Nelson Street. If you are interested in attending, the demonstration begins at 12:30pm and runs until 3:30pm and will be held outside the See Yep Chinese Association.
The real fun starts on the following day, January 22. From 11:00am until 4:00pm, Chinatown comes alive as the New Year festivities come into full swing. A traditional parade featuring giant, colorful dragons, unicorns and lions makes its way down Nelson, Berry and Great George Street, as well as through Great George Square. Nelson Street is home to the largest Chinese Arch in Europe. In fact, it is the largest Chinese Arch outside of the Chinese mainland. The Arch provides an impressive backdrop for this lively celebration.
Foodies will appreciate the Taste of China Street Market. Not only will you be able to sample authentic Chinese fair, you will have the privilege of enjoying traditional Chinese New Year delicacies. After your belly is full, ring in the new year with firecrackers and noise makers!
During the last Tuesday in January (that would be the 31st this year), Lerwick comes alive as Up Helly Aa Day comes into full swing. This festival dates all the way back to the late 1800s and is an important celebration of Shetland history. As the story tells it, the ancient Vikings would burn a galley as a sacrifice to the sun while welcoming the springtime.
This all-day event begins with a morning march through the town. The procession features Guizer Jarl and the Jarl Squad, who play the role of Vikings for the day. In the late morning, locals and visitors gather to have their pictures taken with the Jarl Squad and to mingle with family and friends. You may elect to arrive at the Esplanade early, as to beat the crowd.
Next on the agenda is a civic reception at the Town Hall. Unfortunately for some visitors, this is by invitation only. But think of it as a nice break after a busy and exciting morning. After the reception, the parade continues as the Guizer and his men lead the crowds through the town stopping to make merry at the primary school and local hospital. This is followed by a lunch that you are sure to have worked up an appetite for.
The highlight of Up Helly Aa is the torch lit procession. Almost a thousand torches are lit as participants make their way through the night to the King George V playing field where the traditional galley is set alight before partying the night away. The party begins when the local halls open and welcome the Jarl Squad, who proceed to dance with the lady of the hall. After that, the celebration spreads town wide and the sounds of music fill the air. The party is so huge and widely attended that Wednesday has been pronounced a public holiday, allowing everybody the chance to recover from the night before.
If you think you’ve got what it takes to party with the locals, book a cheap car rental in Scotland with Kemwel today!
If you happen to be passing through Spain this February, you will want to stop off in the town of Almonacid de Marquesado. February 2nd is known as Candelaria, or the “purification of the Virgin Mary,” and the following day celebrates Saint Blaise. Combined, these celebrations form what is known as “La Endiablada,” a fiesta that has been held in Almonacid de Marquesado since the 13th century.
Each morning, a procession consisting of local men dressed in colorful, floral-printed suits parade through the streets. On the day of Candelaria, the men wear flowered crowns, and on Saint Blaise day, their hats resemble a bishop’s headwear. The group is led by the “head devil,” a position that is held for life. All of the men don giant cowbells that fill the streets with a deafening noise as they dance along. The sounds are meant to scare away any ill-wishing demons, and even the devil himself. Tradition mandates that only boys and men born in Almonacid de Marquesado are allowed to join the brotherhood and participate in the dance.
The women of the village can be found playing castanets in the streets, as well as reading poetry about the Virgin and the Saint. At the end of each parade, the town holds a giant church mass, after which the fiesta continues. The streets are filled with music as the local women entertain with traditional Spanish dances.
If you are planning a get away this winter, consider a cheap car rental in Spain from Kemwel and experience La Endiablada for yourself!
Here at Kemwel, we are just getting back from our holiday break. The office is busy with stories of insufferable in-laws, amazing presents, and snowy travels. It’s always hard to get back into the swing of things after the holidays. And now that the New Year is just around the corner, we won’t be settling down anytime soon. This place is already buzzing with plans for parties and celebrations. What are you doing New Year’s Eve? If you’re not quite sure yet, check out some of these celebrations from around the world.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Did you know that Auld Lang Syne was written in Scotland? Well, why not spend the New Year in Edinburgh, home to the country’s largest Hogmanay celebration? The festivities begin the night before New Year’s Eve with a torchlight procession ending in an impressive fireworks display, marking the beginning of the weekend’s celebrations. The following night offers a wide variety of concerts, street parties and games, with over 8,000 people in attendance. Traditionally, first-footing was a big part of the New Year in Scotland. After the clock strikes midnight, folks would take to the streets visiting their neighbors, offering well wishes for the upcoming year and gifting coal for warm fires or tasty little treats. Kemwel offers a wide variety of cheap car rentals in Edinburgh, so plan your trip today!
New York, New York
The most famous New Year’s celebration in the world, no one does it quite like New York City. Though the city is well known for its posh bars and swanky clubs, all of whom will be hosting exciting parties, the most popular location is outside in the cold of Times Square. Bundled up in jackets and scarves, people from all over the country convene in this spot to usher in the New Year. If you are planning on attending the ball drop, make sure you arrive early, because it gets crowded fast! Don’t forget to bring someone to kiss!
Prague, Czech Republic
The gorgeous city of Prague is home to one of the most impressive fireworks displays you are likely to ever see. This city is booming on New Year’s Eve, with parties spilling out onto the streets and good cheer abounding. The fireworks over the Charles River explode high above Prague Castle and are nothing short of magical. This is something the whole family is sure to delight in. If you want to get right in the middle of the action, you can book a ticket on one of the many party boats that will be rocking the night away on the Charles. You will want to book your cheap car rental in Prague for a few days so you can fully appreciate the city after you’ve celebrated the New Year.
Sydney, Australia
My number one reason for recommending Sydney? Summertime! New Year’s in Australia is perfect for those who want a break from the ice and snow. Kick back on the famous beaches of Sydney Harbour during the day before attending one of the many parties hosted by the bars and restaurants along the strip. You will also have your choice of cruises, whether you are looking to party hard, enjoy a fancy dinner, try your hand at ballroom dancing, or you just want a great view from the water. Be sure you grab a Vantage Point Map so you can find a good seat for the fireworks that night. Millions of people attend New Year’s Even in Sydney for a reason, and with a cheap car rental in Australia, you will see why!
Whether it’s their home, sweet home or the place they have spent their whole life trying to get to, artists from around the world have continuously immortalized their beloved cities in song. Sometimes, wanderlust alone is a love affair, and just the thrill of the open road provides inspiration for whole entire albums. Here are 20 songs for traveling, so load up you iPod and enjoy this globetrotting track list as you hit the road on your own adventure.
The Clash – London Calling
This punk rock anthem is probably the first song that springs to most people’s minds. It may not be a love song to London as much as it is a call to action, but never the less, it’s a classic.
Billy Joel – Vienna
I’m going to honest with you here… I don’t like Billy Joel. I know, I know. However, I am in love with this beautiful song. Is Vienna waiting for you?
The Beatles – Back in the USSR
Listen, Joe Strummer, just because you made the list doesn’t mean I agree with that whole “phony Beatlemania” thing.
They Might Be Giants – Istanbul (Not Constantinople)
If you remember the Animaniacs, than you certainly know this song! If you are looking for a cheap car rental in Turkey, make sure you look for Istanbul, not Constantinople.
Elton John – Mona Lisas and Madhatters
Elton John’s bittersweet tale of New York City is a beautiful classic. There are so many songs about NYC to choose from, but this is one of my all time favorites.
Guster – Amsterdam
This is the largest city in the Netherlands, but with a cheap car rental in Amsterdam, you won’t have to worry about getting lost.
Crosby, Stills & Nash– Marrakesh Express
Pick up a cheap car rental in South Africa and tour the entire continent! Head up north to Morocco and take a ride on the Marrakesh Express. All aboard the train!
Tom Waits – Singapore
The crew on this ship doesn’t sound too trustworthy, but Rain Dogs is one of the greatest records of all time, so I would probably follow Tom Waits to Singapore.
PJ Harvey – Let England Shake
Okay, so this one may not be a love letter to England either, but it’s a fantastic song off an amazing record and makes a great addition to any mix tape.
Moody Blues – Boulevard De La Madelaine
Ah, Paris. This romantic city often acts as a backdrop for many a broken heart. Hopefully the rest of us will have better luck on the Boulevard De La Madelaine.
Duran Duran – Rio
It’s starting to get mighty cold in my part of the world. A vacation to Brazil sounds like the perfect way to combat the chill!
Bob Dylan – Mozambique
A cheap car rental in South Africa can get you over to Mozambique. According to old Bob, the girls are very pretty here. You may fall in love with more than just the country!
Men at Work – Land Down Under
You will have this one stuck in your head for the rest of the day. At least I will. The Australian protagonist in this story travels all over the world, from Brussels to Bombay.
Willie Nelson – On The Road Again
No travel themed mixed CD is complete without this country classic. If you are going places that you’ve never been and seeing things that you may never see again, make sure you include this on your playlist.
Three Dog Night – Never Been to Spain
I get a lot of flack for my love of Three Dog Night, but I can’t help it. They’re awesome! If you’ve never been, book your cheap car rental in Spain today.
David Bowie – Life on Mars
Okay, so you can’t book a car rental on Mars, at least not yet. But Hunky Dory is one of the best albums of all time and Life on Mars is a classic.
Adam and the Ants – Young Parisians
Get a first hand look at how young Parisians live with a cheap car rental in Paris. Don’t forget to add this fun little ditty to your playlist.
Billy Bragg and Wilco – California Stars
This beautiful interpretation of Woody Guthrie’s unrecorded California Stars is sure to have you dreaming of the west coast.
Talking Heads – Road to Nowhere
Little Monsters, anyone? The Talking Heads had a city in mind, a so-called paradise. What is your idea of Paradise? A Tuscan summer? Or maybe spring break in Cancun?
Roger Miller – King of the Road
This trek around the world will have you feeling like the King of the Road in no time. Pop this free-wheeling classic on your iPod, sit back, and enjoy the trip.
If you read our Holiday Celebrations From Around the World blog, you probably remember mention of the Krampus. Well, he isn’t the only ghoulish figure lurking around come Christmas time. Witches, demons, and all kinds of mischievous fae can be found wreaking havoc all over the world this holiday season.
You all know that the Krampus is frightening, demon-like figure who accompanies St. Nicholas to punish naughty children, whipping their legs with a switch. If you have been an extra bad boy or girl, he won’t think twice about stuffing you in his sack and whisking you away, only to feast on you later.
As if this isn’t horrifying enough, you will also find Perchta roaming around Bavarian regions this time of year. Perchta, a Germanic goddess, stops by your home on the Twelfth Night, and if you have behaved all year, she rewards you with shiny silver coins. But if you’ve been bad, she will cut your belly open, remove your innards, and stuff you full of straw and rocks. Yowzah! That should keep the kids in line.
In the Netherlands, Sinterklaas makes the rounds accompanied by Zwarte Piet. Legend claims that Zwarte Piet captures naughty children in a burlap sack and brings them back to Spain, which is apparently Sinterklaas’ headquarters. He is also known to leave a bundle of birch twigs instead of presents if you’ve been bad, a warning that next time, you might get the switch!
Iceland is home to the Yule Lads, a group of pranksters who roam around causing mischief during the holidays. Today they are thought of more as Santa type figures, but as tradition tells it, they are usually up to no good. These troll-like little men are kept company by the Yuletide Cat. Children who don’t receive new clothing for Christmas will be gobbled up by the ferocious feline. So be sure to put socks on your wish list this year. Socks count, right?
You may think witches are scary and mean, but it Italy, La Befana is well loved. Perhaps that makes her an outcast on this list of big baddies, but still, a witch flying around near Christmas is not something you see everyday! La Befana makes her rounds in January, during the celebration of Epiphany. She leaves toys, sweets and fruit for all of the good children, and coal, onions and garlic for those who have misbehaved. But hey! It is Italy, so garlic isn’t such a bad haul, is it?
Even if you feel like spending the holidays at home, you can still mix things up with a cheap car rental in Italy this New Year. Sorry, we don’t rent flying brooms!
This time of year, most of us in the States are already dreaming of stealing away to warmer places. If you haven’t given South Africa a go yet, why not plan a get away this winter? With a mix of subtropical and Mediterranean climates, South Africa offers warm, sunny days and cool, refreshing evenings. Their summer months occur between November and March, making this the perfect time of year to visit.
National Parks
There are more national parks in South Africa than you can shake a stick at. You will find over five hundred elephants among lions, buffalo, leopards, hyenas and more at the Addo Elephant National Park, the third largest National Park in South Africa. Karro National Park offers a glimpse at the largest eco system in South Africa, and the famous Kruger National Park is home to a diverse and impressive number of species of flora and fauna.
Adventure
As you may imagine, most of the national parks offer hiking and camping opportunities, not to mention safaris. But the region also offers a wide variety of other sports and adventure activities. Try white water rafting along the Orange River. These rapids are perfect for beginners and experts, and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and desert. If you enjoy the water, try scuba diving off the expansive coast in Sodwana Bay. Come face to face with a plethora of colorful fish and other marine life, including ragged-tooth sharks!
Cuisine
Because it has such a multicultural influence, South African cuisine is often referred to as “rainbow cuisine.” With meals influenced by the region’s indigenous people combined with flavors brought by immigrants from India, Malaysia and the UK, local fare truly has something to offer everyone. You may be surprised to learn that South Africa also has a rich wine making tradition. In recent years, they have focused mainly on producing decadent reds. You cannot leave without a sample or two!
Culture
Did you know that South Africa is home to what is believed to be the oldest creative artifacts in the world? Small snail shells with holes used to make jewelry were found, dating back approximately 75,000 years, and you can still view ancient cave paintings. South Africa is also the perfect destination for music lovers. Kwaito is a popular genre which emerged after the end of apartheid. Many black musicians who had previously performed in English or Afrikaans began writing in traditional African languages and including more traditional beats and instruments in their songs. South Africa is also world renowned for being home to some of the most revered jazz musicians of modern day.
Leonardo da Vinci is well regarded as one of the brightest minds in history. He was an inventor, an engineer, a mathematician, a scientist, a musician, and of course, one of the greatest artists of the Italian Renaissance. Long story short, the man was a genius. He is revered and continues to intrigue and inspire historians, inventors and artists to this day.
You can celebrate his genius with a visit to London, England’s National Gallery. The Gallery has been hosting the most complete exhibit of da Vinci’s paintings in history. The show began in early November and will continue until the 5th of February. If you are in the UK or planning a trip to the London area, this is a must see.
The Gallery has borrowed paintings from other prestigious museums, and many of them have never been seen in the UK. You will find pieces from the Hermitage in Saint Petersburg, the Pinacoteca Vatican in Rome, and the famous Louvre of Paris, France. Perhaps one of the most interesting displays, the Louvre has lent the Virgin of the Rocks, of which the National Gallery also owns a copy. The two paintings are a perfect example of how da Vinci’s style changed and evolved over the years, and being able to compare them side by side is truly a rare honor. The entire show focuses on the 1480s and 1490s, during which time da Vinci worked for Ludivico Maria Sforza as a court painter. It was also during this time that the famous Last Supper was created at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Obviously the Last Supper couldn’t be transported to London, but you can view a full scale copy of the masterpiece as painted by one of da Vinci’s students.
Free exhibition guides are available, and you will be given the option of an audio guide at the ticket counter. You may want to consider purchasing your tickets in advance, as there are a limited amount of tickets available per day, and an exhibit this special is likely to sell out.
With a cheap car rental in London, you can beat the crowds and ensure your spot at this once in a lifetime exhibition.
Some would say that it’s the most wonderful time of the year; others would say it’s the most stressful. Somehow, both of these things ring true. We spend money we don’t have, get stuck with relatives we would rather not see, and undoubtedly, you will spend at least a fraction of the holiday season with the sniffles. But the lights are much brighter, the laughter more hearty, and holiday cheer is contagious. Here are some tips to keep you well (and sane) while on the go this holiday season.
Rent a Car
If you are traveling somewhere within a days drive, skip the airplane. Forgoing a flight will spare you the crowds, screaming children, and most importantly, the germs. If you are headed across the country or over seas and you have to fly, be sure to load up on plenty of Vitamin C before your plane takes off, and book a cheap car rental with Kemwel. Your rental car will be ready and waiting for you at the airport, so you won’t have to rely on friends or family to pick you up. Best of all, when Christmas dinner gets a little too lively, you will have means of escape. There is nothing like a leisurely drive to calm the nerves.
Do Your Homework
We can’t all head to Hawaii or Barbados for the holidays. That means some of us will be stuck in less than desirable driving conditions. Be prepared for heavy holiday traffic, especially around the airport. Before you leave home, look into the week’s weather report. Be cautious of snow and black ice, especially if you are not familiar with the area. Research tolls and make sure you have some extra change handy for those that are unexpected. Don’t forget your maps, or ask for a GPS with your rental car.
Entertain the Children
Children can be distracting on the road. Especially if you have a long drive ahead of you and they get restless. Kids will be kids, so make sure you pack some entertainment for them. Portable DVD players, laptops, and iPads are all small enough to fit into a carry on and even a pocketbook. Download or bring your kid’s favorite movies. If you have older kids, make sure they pack their mp3 players, portable video games, or a good book. If you want to make the drive really special, let them open an early Christmas present. That Nintendo DS, brand new Winnie the Pooh DVD, or hardcover copy of Twilight will put your kids in a great mood and help them pass a couple of hours so that you can focus on the road.
Volunteer to be DD
The eggnog is flowing freely this time of year, and more times than not, this will include a splash or two of rum. If you plan on hitting the road, make sure you have a designated driver. Keep a close eye on other drivers, because you never know if they’ve been drinking. Responsible driving ensures that the roads are safe for all.
Kemwel offers cheap car rentals all over the world, so book your car with us this holiday season.
Kemwel car rental has partnered with the car manufacturer, Peugeot to provide you with discounted long term car rentals through our buy back auto lease program.
If you need to rent a car in Europe for more than 17 days, we can save you money. More information...
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