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Serenity In Summer: A Photo Essay Of Smogen On Sweden’s West Coast

by Anil Polat | Aug 7, 2012 | Food, Pictures and Video | 25

Along with kilos of fresh shrimp, Smogen (in Swedish “Smögen”) made me eat my words, as often happens when I broadly prejudge a destination before seeing it with my own eyes. It’s not that I don’t like Sweden, but it’s so flawless on the surface. I’ve made a career out of finding flaws. The Swedes have, generally speaking, human civilization mostly figured out in my opinion. Of course, having a very low population density in a stable part of the world with vast amounts of natural resources helps.

Though the Swedes have the nuts and bolts of society in place, they also fill in the cracks with their cheerful demeanor and tolerant attitude toward minority groups, immigrants, and addictive pop bands. Frankly, there’s a lot the rest of Western Europe could learn from their example.

So, when it comes to Swedish summer towns, Smogen quickly reminded me that peaceful isn’t necessarily boring and that there is no limit to the amount of shrimp one dedicated mouth can eat.

smogen summer homes

Smogen is about 130 kilometers north of Gothenburg and sits along a particularly beautiful stretch of North Sea coastline.

smogen coastline

Best known for its fresh shrimp, if you’re looking for a good view and food in Smogen, the place to head to is Gostas Fiskbutik. A full meal with shrimp, main courses, and a beer run costs about 50 Euro per person (~415 Swedish krona); which is typical for this part of the country.

smogen sweden shrimp

It is much easier to get the right sunset shot when sunset lasts for 4 hours during the long (19-hour) Swedish summer days.

smogen sweden sunset

The crosswalk is close enough, besides, cars don’t drive very fast here.

smogen sweden streets

Smogen is known for its shrimp, Sweden for its meatballs, but much less talked about is its candy. For instance, these flavors of licorice, sold along the water in a Saturday market, helping add to the average Swede’s 43kg annual consumption of sugar [PDF].

sweden lakrits

There’s a boat converted into a hotel just behind this fishing vessel, which I originally confused for the other. I’m glad I didn’t ask the wrong captain how much it would cost to sleep on their boat.

saibon smogen sweden

Smogen is actually an island, connected to the neighboring town Kungshamm by bridge. This is a view on the drive out, but if your feet get a chance, I recommend walking up the pedestrian path of Smogen Bridge for excellent views and photo opportunities.

smogen sweden grass

There was an infectious positiveness around when I was in Smogen, people dancing and singing in the lone grocery store in town; one tall blond lip-syncing Coolio with fierce passion.

smogen sweden twilight

The coast of Smogen’s surprises don’t stop there and I’ll be writing about those in the coming weeks. From Lysekil south and Tanum’s famous rock cravings north, it was one of the most beautiful ways to relearn an old lesson.

What Do Flight Attendants Mean When They Say “Cross-Check” Before A Flight?

by Anil Polat | Aug 3, 2012 | Travel, Travel Unravel | 4

spanair flight I’ve been on hundreds of flights in my life and am somewhat reluctant to say I zone out through most safety procedure demonstrations. (I’ve memorized them through airline hypnosis.) I try my best to appear attentive but am usually thinking about all else – except when I hear, “flight attendants, cross-check.” You may also be wondering what this kung-fu-maneuver-sounding announcement means. To find out, after my last flight en route to Traverse City, Michigan I took a moment to ask one of the attendants who kindly deciphered cross-check for me.

There Are Usually Two Announcements

The first (I must still have been dreaming about my upcoming travel stops) I hadn’t noticed, is typically something like “arm doors and cross check.” To board an airplane the doors must obviously be open. However, before they’re opened and unlocked, the inflatable slides we ignore listening about prior to take off must be disconnected from the door. That prevents the slide from popping out when the doors are opened. The first cross-check announcement is a reminder before liftoff for the flight attendants to properly seal the doors and reattach the slides in case they’re needed.

“Cross-check complete” means just that. Flight attendants have verified that the doors on both sides of the aircraft are properly locked and their evacuation slides ready in case of an emergency.

What Would Happen Someone Forgets A Cross Check?

Something like this, when the airplane door is opened. Imagine that happening after pulling up to the airport gate.

So once you land, another cross-check is done to make sure the safety slides are properly disengaged from the doors. Now, next time you’re daydreaming before your next flight, you’ll know those flight attendants aren’t talking about ninja training. Rather, they’re making sure the evacuation slides are ready before you’re in the air and don’t deploy right before you deplane.

Snag More Wireless Networks With A Long Range USB Antenna (Updated)

by Anil Polat | Aug 2, 2012 | Tech | 5

alfa long range usb antenna

One of the 5 most effective ways to increase your laptop’s wireless range when traveling is to use a long-rang USB antenna. These realtively small devices can help you connect to airport and hostel networks that might otherwise be out of range by increasing your wireless reach by more than 3 times. I first covered wireless USB antennas more than 3 years ago and since that time newer models, operating systems, and standards have been released.

I decided it’s time to update those previous recommendations (which are still good by the way – I’m using my Alfa AWUS036EH right now) with a few of my favorite current models.

A Quick Reminder How Long-Range USB Antennas Work: Advantages And Drawbacks

Laptops come with built-in wireless cards that pickup signals from wireless access points (e.g. routers). Imagine two people shouting instructions at each other over a distance. The only way they can communicate more efficiently is by getting closer, improving their hearing, screaming louder, or some combination of the three. The wireless access point already has a megaphone and amazing ears but can’t move. You can move but but might not be able to get reasonably closer to the access point. A long-range USB antenna gives your laptop bigger digital ears and a louder voice.

Since energy can’t be created or destroyed those ears and voice come at a price: electricity. Wireless antennas consume anywhere from 10-30% more power than your built-in card. (Measured in milliwatts; the typical laptop card is about 100mW.) More range means more electricity consumed. Not a problem when you’re plugged in but something to be aware of when your laptop is running on batteries. I should also mention that long-range USB antennas work with desktops as well, but you’re better off putting that beast to good use at home when traveling.

Models To Consider And Compatibility

Most long-range USB antennas will work with any old wireless network you’re likely to come across but a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure the card you’re going to purchase works with your specific operating system (e.g. Windows 7). Most card descriptions will specify what OS they’ll work with but if you’re unclear, email the manufacturer to be certain.

n3: 802.11n Wireless-N Long Range WiFi USB (700mW) – Roughly $35 and compatible with most Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. A good blend of power and user-friendliness (in terms of OS compatibility).
Alfa AWUS036H (1000mW) – Around $30 and compatible with most pre-Windows 7 and Mac OS X 10.6 versions. Good especially for Windows users running on older systems. Those of you on newer Windows OS computers can take a look at the Alfa AWUS036NH (2000mW) that runs about $30 as well.

Both the n3 an Alfa AWUS036NH (2000mW) are compatible with the newer, faster 802.11n wireless standards.

Where To Purchase Wireless USB Antennas

For (free) shipping in the United States, and those of you living in Canada, Rokland.com online store is a good place to pick up a long-range USB antenna. They’ve also got a 30-day return policy as well as prompt customer service. Since they don’t ship elsewhere (it changes so email them first to verify your country) your local version of Amazon.com is likely to have one or all of these antenna models to choose from.

Have you or do you use a long-range USB antenna? Let’s hear what models you’ve enjoyed the benefits of (or haven’t) in the comments below!

What To See And Do In Under 3 Days In Baku, Azerbaijan

by Anil Polat | Jul 31, 2012 | Advice, Train | 26

baku skyline

Landing in Baku I wasn’t expecting the baby booming tourism attraction that will soon grow into the Caucuses version of Dubai. Much like that United Arab Emirate city, Baku can overwhelm you fast to the point you might leave feeling like you haven’t seen anything.

To begin to cut in to Azerbaijan’s capital city you’ll need to dissect it into digestible pieces so you can begin to see what’s actually behind all of the rapidly rising steel and flowing concrete.

Begin With The Old In The New

The “Icheri Sheher”, Inner or Old City, is a deceptively quaint area of Baku located behind its original fortress walls. (It also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.) In the Inner City is where you’re likely to end up and even if you don’t, it contains several small but interesting sites like Qiz Qalasi (“Maiden’s Tower) where you’ll find exceptional shots of Baku from above, all within walking distance.

From there you can get to the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, in a walk less than 10 minutes to see this realtively large complex that was completed around the year 1585. Some of the sections are less spectacular than others but yours eyes shouldn’t miss the underground tombs or the doors of the mausoleum. There are extra fees to bring cameras into the palace area unless you *cough* keep them inconspicuous when purchasing tickets.

Eating In The Inner City: The restaurants and food within the walls are varied but tend to be the upper-class no-locals-eat-this-stuff variety; with one notable exception. Tendir sits at one of the entrances of the fort walls and serves relatively inexpensive – yet damn good – Azeri cuisine, including fresh bread cooked in a stone over right outside. It doesn’t seat more than 20-25 people total so get there are bit early or late to make sure there’s enough room for your group.

tendir restaurant baku

That’s hardly all to there is to the Icheri Sheher, such as the Miniature Book Museum, which my nerdy side loved and yours probably will too if you have one.

Climb Up To Martyrs’ Lane

A touching tribute to many of those killed in several wars, including during fighting against the Soviet Army at the end of World War I. There is also a memorial to 1,130 Turkish soldiers killed protecting Baku during that time. Martyr’s Lane (“Shehidler Khiyabani”) is thought to have over 15,000 bodies in its cemetery, though its not certain as it was destroyed during the 1920s. Today, you can see the line of hundreds killed in the 1988-94 Nagorno-Karabakh War, including the graves of several journalists killed covering the fighting.

I’d recommend arriving at sunrise (maybe your bladder can help wake you up) or an hour before sunset for some great photo opportunities of the Caspian Sea. Then you can take the nice, very-downhill walk down by the water. Those of you traveling with children will especially appreciate all of the rides along the way.

Around The Absheron Peninsula

Baku is loaded with museums, modern shops, with cranes on every horizon; much like the Middle East’s fastest growing nation Qatar. Shopaholics with big budgets will enjoy bouncing between the mega-malls like AF Mall, each of which are easily accessible via Baku’s metro system. Baku’s subway system is generally safe and orderly, with few major lines; however several trains share the tracks. Most stops will have personnel in uniform hanging around to ask if you get confused. (As you may have guessed, I got confused.)

But around Baku are where some of its other popular sites are; most of which may be worth skipping depending on your tastes. The much famed Yanar Dag (“Burning Mountain”) was disappointing. I was expecting a mountain engulfed in flames only to find a boulder on fire. A fire that has been burning for over 50 years, fueled by natural gas deposits beneath the surface.

The Atashgah Fire Temple, over 1,000 years old, is also a site that I felt similarly about. The history of the structure, and its possible Hindu roots are fascinating however, though without a thorough brush up on its background, you may leave feeling unsatisfied.

Farting Volcanoes And The Stories Along The Way

Once you’ve seen both, it’s hard not to be reminded of Dubai in Baku. Except that it’s like what I imagine Dubai was 15 years ago; making Baku’s surface still so very transparent. The way the government’s tourism direction is headed however makes that window a rapidly closing one. While I enjoyed surfing down the farting mud volcanoes in Gobustan, it was the serendipity that happened along the way that made bouncing around Baku memorable.

5 Bahrain-Specific Ways To Save Money In That Country

by Anil Polat | Jul 27, 2012 | Money | 10

bahraini flags I had planned on writing an article like this one sometime early last year, but having left a few days before and behind the protests in Bahrain, saving money hardly seemed relevant at the time. More than a year later, with tourism picking up, you might be considering a trip to what I consider the most personable Gulf state outside of Oman.

These tricks are old news if you’re already in Bahrain and won’t do you as much good because the first trick is one you need to know about right upon arrival.

1. Don’t Take A Taxi From The Airport To Anywhere

The rates for taxi rides between the airport and big hotels plus major sites are fixed, however a 2 dinar ($5.30) fee is added. If you happen to be going to a hotel, another dinar is added; making your ride about $7.96 more expensive. There are two ways to get around this fee: the first is to ask to be dropped off on the corner a block before your hotel or even better, take the (hardly advertised) free shuttle downtown.

bahrain bus

2. Do Your Grocery Shopping Wisely

I was never able to determine the exact reasoning behind it, but there is a 1 dinar (~$2.65) fee upon checkout at any grocery store. That may not seem like much but if you’re forgetful or have a habit of buying snacks throughout the day, it can add up quickly in an already expensive country like Bahrain. It’s best to get your food in bulk; or at least in as few trips as reasonable to avoid paying for nothing that will provide you calories.

3. All National Tourist Sites Are Free Or Have Nominal Fees

Granted, this isn’t something I need to tell you once you’ve actually there but it’s certainly an enticing offer. Places as stunning as the Tree of Life are free and you can wander around the Bahrain F1 International Circuit without charge (provided there’s not a race going on). Other sites like Arad Fort (show up around sunset for great skyline views) cost about 53 US cents.

4. Hail Cabs From The Street, Don’t Call Ahead

Bahrain’s taxi cabs use fee structures that make airline baggage and booking fees seem simple in comparison. There are small added fees for calling a taxi so when possible (and not in the middle of the night) hail a cab directly off the street. Also, there are fees if you get in a taxi on hotel grounds, so walk a little bit down the block from any travel accommodations to avoid those extra costs as well.

5. Rent A Car And Avoid Organized Tours

I know this sounds like something that belongs on a travel list that won’t help you very much but in the case of Bahrain, renting a car has large budget advantages. I’ve written before how to save and see more by renting a car in Bahrain so I won’t go into all the details. But at 8-10 dinar per day ($21-26) and gas at 29 cents a liter ($1 per gallon) it’s a bargain on the tours that average a starting price of around $120. Plus you can drive around the entire country in a day, making it exceptionally accessible without a guide.

bahrain national museum

Most of these savings revolve around automobiles and to add one more, if you ever find yourself in a taxi without a working meter the ride is free. A shifty driver tried this on me by quickly turning the meter off before arrival. He then claimed I owed much more than what reality would suggest. Knowing this rule, I got out of the car and called over to two police across the street. Before they could make their way over, he swiftly drove off.

Use Your Bladder As An Alarm Clock To Wake Up On Time For Early Sightseeing

by Anil Polat | Jul 26, 2012 | Advice | 24

water alarm clock

You can’t hit the snooze button on your loaded bladder when you’ve really got to pee, making it a quiet and effective alarm clock when timed right. What Lisa Simpson discovered many years ago, helps me get up for sunrise photo shoots, can also ensure you don’t miss an early-morning adventure, bus, or flight.

To Be Clear – Drink Clear…Water

Digestive timing is important and a bit difficult to narrow down. There are a number of factors that determine how long it takes before a liquid reaches your bladder and knocks on the door. Drinking liters of beer before going to bed may not only result in waking up haphazardly to find a toilet, the ensuing hangover will make it harder to get out of bed. We’re talking about water here, not sports drinks (calorie-free or not) or other liquids with chemicals in them.

However, Dear Caffeine Addict

We can’t avoid the most widely consumed psychoactive drug in the world (that I’m on right now as I type this) – caffeine. As a diuretic, caffeine makes you urinate more, although some studies show this effect is only when more than 240ml is floating in your blood stream. Approximately the amount you’d find after drinking 2 medium-sized cups of coffee. Caffeine has a half-life of about 8 hours, the amount of time you should avoid consuming any before your wake-up water-chug.

iPhone users, you can track the rough amount of caffeine in your blood using the free app Caffeine Zone 2 Lite.

Don’t Eat 4 Hours Before Bedtime

Food digestion times are complex but the two things we’re most concerned about are an empty stomach and small intestine, to make the most of our water alarm clock trick. Not eating about 4 hours before you plan to sleep should do it. Water is not really digested by the body and broken down further, rather your guts absorb what you need and send the rest on through.

These averages will vary widely from individual to individual but generally speaking, on an empty stomach, it takes about 1 hour for a liter of water to get from your mouth to your bladder when awake. The average human bladder holds about 500mL of urine and the “time to pee” message begins at about 250mL.

Drink About 2 Liters Of Water Quickly Before Sleeping

Our rate of digestion however is slowed by about 3 times when we’re asleep (thanks to the hormone arginine vasopressin) which tells the kidneys to slow down. Convenient for us on most nights but means 1 liter of water drank right before going to sleep will have us up in 3 hours. 2 liters, about 6 hours; because despite the slow down of the kidneys, eventually that water makes its way out.

Adjusting Your Personal Bladder Clock

When it’s hot, your body is going to use more of the water you’re drinking for sweating and even slight dehydration can have you retaining realtively large amounts. In those cases you’ll want to drink a bit more than 2 liters and keep in mind all of us have unique bodies and bladders. The only way to be more accurate is run a few experiments of your own under ideal conditions. Preferably before the first time you really need to get up for an early ride.

About Anil Polat

Hi, I'm Anil. foXnoMad is where I combine travel and tech to help you travel smarter. I'm on a journey to every country in the world and you're invited to join the adventure! Read More