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Olive Oil Tasting in the Land of Taste

As lovers of food we love to explore the best foods from around the world. Olive Oil tasting in Verucchio proved that we have been buying the wrong oil.

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Il Bello E Il Buono Olive Oil, Verucchio, Emilia Romagna, Olive Oil Tasting

Il Bello E Il Buono Olive Oil, Verucchio, Emilia Romagna, Olive Oil Tasting

Don’t expect to show up in Italy and begin to wow everyone with your knowledge of food. It just won’t happen. From the moment Italians are born, they are surrounded by traditional, and local produce.

In Emilia-Romagna, the land of taste, this is even more ingrained in their culture.

Everyone is passionate about food. From the smallest villages to the largest cities, the locals live, breath, and eat fine food.

Il Bello E Il Buono Olive Oil, Verucchio, Emilia Romagna, Olive Oil Tasting

In this fast paced world that we now live in, so many people forget that food is not just about sustaining our lives. It is meant to be enjoyed. You should put time aside to learn everything you can about the art of food.

And to be inspired to learn, you have to hear it from a passionate local.

In the small hilltop village of Verucchio we did exactly that. Overlooking the Adriatic coastline in Emilia-Romagna we met Mario. A truly passionate local.

Mario Il Borgo Olive Oil

We have met very few people during our lives that have loved their jobs unconditionally. I don’t just mean they enjoy getting up every morning to go to work. But truly love and are passionate about what they do.

Mario is one of those people.

For 3 hours we were treated to a personal tour of Verucchio, including the art of producing olive oil, and the art of olive oil tasting.

Mario has just over 1300 Olive trees on the slopes below Verucchio and employs a staff of one. Himself. He does everything by hand and produces one of the best Extra Virgin Olive Oils in the world. Rightly called Il Borgo, which translates into “The Village”.

Il Bello E Il Buono Olive Oil, Verucchio, Emilia Romagna, Olive Oil Tasting

We spoke at length with him about why he doesn’t try and upscale or employ more people to help him. His answer was pure and simple.

“For the quality”

Il Bello E Il Buono Olive Oil, Verucchio, Emilia Romagna, Olive Oil Tasting

It dawned on us then, that the rest of us are doing it all wrong.

Here he was, working his butt off every day, and had been for the last 40 years, and he just wanted to make sure he was putting out the best product possible. He wasn’t after fame or fortune.

He just wanted to share his love for Olive Oil. We were instantly enthralled by him.

He knew everything there was to know about Olives and the art of creating high quality Olive Oil.

As we settled down for our tasting Mario ran through a couple of tips to make sure we got the full aroma and taste from Olive Oil we tried. We want to share our tips learnt with you as well.

Il Bello E Il Buono Olive Oil, Verucchio, Emilia Romagna, Olive Oil Tasting

Still too ripe.

Tips for Tasting Olive Oil

While you don’t swig Olive Oil like a beer or wine, the same process for enjoying it apply.

Smell

The smell of olive oil is very important and critical to its flavor.

Pour a little bit of extra virgin olive oil into a glass, allowing it to warm between your hands. Swirl a few times and then stuff your nose right in there to get the full aroma. We were told that we should expect to notice the smell of fresh-cut grass, tropical fruits, and ripe olive fruit.

It smelt like oil to me. Still excellent, but I just wanted to move onto the tasting stage.

Il Bello E Il Buono Olive Oil, Verucchio, Emilia Romagna, Olive Oil Tasting

Sound

Place you ear in the glass now. You should be able to hear the sounds of summer, a soft breeze, and people laughing at you. Turns out Mario also has a sense of humour and was just pulling our leg. Luckily I held my tongue, as I was about to agree that I could hear summer.

Taste

Take a sip. But don’t swallow. You want to hold it as you breath in though your mouth. Now shut your gob and breathe out through your nose. This will give you a whole bunch of other flavors that you wouldn’t have tasted if you just swallowed it in one gulp.

The Il Borgo Olive Oil is quite spicy compared to others around the region. Mario explained that Verucchio is the perfect distance from the sea. Therefore the salty air, fertile soil and altitude all contribute to that spice.

This slight spicy flavour means it is a very high quality oil. The best can give you just the tiniest tingle but can be strong enough to make you cough.

Il Bello E Il Buono Olive Oil, Verucchio, Emilia Romagna, Olive Oil Tasting

In addition to the fruity and spicy tastes, it can be quite bitter. If you ever try an olive right off the tree then you will agree they are bitter (don’t do it). And since Olive Oil is made from uncured olives, you get the same result.

The blacker the fruit, the less bitter it is. That is why Mario waits until his olives are still half green and black. The blacker they are, then the sweeter the Olive Oil.

Il Bello E Il Buono Olive Oil, Verucchio, Emilia Romagna, Olive Oil Tasting

Our tasting didn’t last very long…

Next time you are cooking dinner or having a few snacks in front of the television, try our tips to see how your Olive Oil compares. It might be time to give Mario a call and order some in.

You won’t regret it!

Extra Travel Tips:

You can get to Verucchio by bike from Rimini along the river pathway. Although it is quite a trek up to the top of the village from there.

Travel to Rimini from around Europe either by Rail (www.trenitalia.com) or by flying direct to the International Federico Fellini Airport.

Mario will show you around if you want to check out the rest of the town including where to find the best pizza!

Il Bello E Il Buono Olive Oil, Verucchio, Emilia Romagna, Olive Oil Tasting

Disclaimer: We were guests of the Emilia-Romagna tourism board as part of the hugely successful #Blogville project. As always, our thoughts and photos, are our own.

Cole is one half of New Zealand's leading adventure travel blogging couple who have been wearing out their jandals around the world since 2009. He loves any adventure activities and anything to do with the water whether it is Surfing, Diving, Swimming, Snorkeling or just lounging nearby on the beach. You can follow Cole on Google+. Or consider following us via RSS Feed, Twitter, Facebook and subscribe to our Newsletter.

Europe

Discover Sicily’s Hidden Charms: Why Villa Holidays Are the Ultimate Getaway

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Villa Holidays

Picture waking up to the sound of the Mediterranean Sea, with a gorgeous view of verdant gardens and the scent of Sicilian herbs surrounding you, creating a sensory experience like no other. A villa holiday in Sicily brings you just that. Villas for rent in Sicily are a great introduction to how to really experience and live the beauty and elegance of the island.

Discovering the Enchanting World of Luxury Villa Holidays

Nothing says luxury pampering and living the high life like a luxurious Sicilian villa– all this good stuff also comes with a side of privacy and comfort to really round off the experience. Whether you are looking for a romantic retreat, a private retreat for indulgence with your family, or to entertain friends, exquisite accommodations in Sicily are the highest level of accommodation available.

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The Allure of Sicily as a Luxury Villa Holiday Destination

Sicily, as a luxury villa destination is more than just staying in a large house. A villa in this Italian paradise tends to come with a palpable sense of being surrounded by the cultural richness of Sicily, with gorgeous sights like the landscape and architecture. The cherry on top of this sundae is the kind of warm hospitality you can only find in Sicily and the sophistication that makes it a perfect modern-day escape!

Unveiling the Gems: Luxury Villa Experiences in Sicily

There are mainly two luxury villa options in Sicily:

An oceanside luxury villa is a treat for the ocean lover and gives said ocean lover some ocean views and the ability to splash around whenever they want

For those looking for something more peaceful, choose a luxury villa surrounded by olive groves and vineyards for truly bespoke experiences in Sicilian villas. Sicilian villas combine tranquility with exclusive amenities for indulgence  – think sweeping gardens, private swimming pools, and surreal views.

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Girl eating croissant in Paris

Immersing in Unparalleled Luxury Experiences in Sicily: Activities

Although it doesn’t have the force of a big, bustling city, there are many luxury experiences in Sicily and even more exclusive activities for villa holidays. If you so choose you can take some cooking classes and learn to make the best Italian dishes from scratch and like a pro! Or you can spend your days tasting the delicious wines that Italy is known for.

Planning Your Dream Luxury Villa Holiday in Sicily

Here are some tips for a memorable stay in Sicily:

  • Plan the Perfect Season: Sicily is a year-round destination offering it all. Go in spring and autumn for milder weather and fewer tourists, during summer for beach days for sunbaths, or in winter for complete serenity in the streets with no crowds.
  • Choose the Perfect Villa: Shop based on size, location, and amenities. Large group? Rent villa Sicily with lots of bedrooms and communal space.
  • Travel: Rent a car to move around the suburbs and smaller towns and use trains and buses to explore your large cities, i.e., Palermo.
  • Concierge Services: You can enjoy concierge bespoke services in Sicilian villas. They will not only help in planning a luxury villa holiday in Sicily and make the bookings for you but also surprise you with tips for a memorable stay in Sicily.

Choosing the Perfect Holiday Villa in Sicily

A luxury villa holiday in Sicily offers more than just a vacation—it’s an immersion into a world of elegance, culture, and unparalleled beauty. From the enchanting Mediterranean views to the rich history and vibrant local traditions, Sicily delivers an experience that is as diverse as it is unforgettable. Imagine lounging by your private pool, surrounded by olive groves, sipping local wines, and basking in the serenity of the Sicilian countryside. Or, for ocean lovers, waking up to the rhythmic waves of the Mediterranean, feeling the fresh sea breeze, and spending your days by the beach.

The allure of Sicily lies not only in its breathtaking villas but in the authenticity of the island’s charm. Whether you’re indulging in a private chef’s Sicilian cuisine, exploring ancient ruins, or simply relaxing under the Sicilian sun, each moment here is infused with a sense of timeless luxury. The wide range of activities—from wine tastings to cooking classes—ensures that every visitor finds something that resonates with their idea of a perfect getaway.

Choosing the right villa is key to curating your dream Sicilian experience. Whether you opt for an oceanside retreat or a villa nestled in the serene countryside, you are guaranteed a space that caters to both relaxation and indulgence. The bespoke concierge services available make planning your stay effortless, allowing you to focus on savoring every moment of this exquisite journey.

Ultimately, a villa holiday in Sicily is more than just a retreat—it’s a connection to a lifestyle that balances luxury with the simplicity and beauty of nature. Sicily invites you to slow down, appreciate life’s finer details, and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, why wait? Begin planning your dream luxury villa escape in Sicily today and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.

 

 

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Adventure Travel

Facing my Fears – Hot Air Ballooning in Costa Brava, Spain

I’m not a huge fan of heights & when I was given the chance to face my fears while hot air ballooning in Costa Brava, Spain, I was a little apprehensive.

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Hot Air Ballooning in Costa Brava Spain

“Everyone holding on tight?”

“Brace! Brace! Brace!”

Not really the words I wanted to be coming out of our hot air balloon pilot’s mouth as we descended toward earth.

Even though I have always wanted to go hot air ballooning, I have not pushed it. You see, while Adela is not a fan of being underground, I hate being above ground. High above ground that is.

I don’t do heights very well.

So how did I find myself on a crystal clear summer morning above the stunning Costa Brava coastline? Being told to “brace” as we descended towards a tiny clearing between trees and cornfields?

Applying for Residency in Spain

For those enchanted by Spain’s charm and considering a longer stay, understanding how to apply for residence in this country is essential. Spain offers various residency options tailored to different needs, whether you’re pursuing work, study, or simply embracing the lifestyle. The process typically involves securing the appropriate visa, registering with local authorities, and meeting specific requirements like proof of income or health insurance. With its rich culture, warm climate, and inviting communities, Spain remains an ideal destination for expatriates seeking a new adventure.

I want to give a huge thanks to our incredibly talented pilot from Globus Costa Brava for taking me on a ride that will be forever remembered. And of course the extremely wonderful team at Costa Brava Tourism Board for helping me face my fears by organizing the hot air ballooning in Costa Brava, Spain.

This is a post from a series called Facing my Fears. It helps us to step outside our comfort zone, in comfort. Check out the rest of the series here.

Disclaimer: I was a guest of the Costa Brava tourism board, but as always our fears, stories, and photos are all our own.

Do you have a fear of heights or another phobia? How did you face your fears?

Hot Air Ballooning in Costa Brava, Spain

Rising before dawn is usually not a problem for me. I love sunrises. Even being told we have an awesome travel adventure high up in the sky doesn’t faze me this early.

 

Hot Air Ballooning in Costa Brava Spain

It is not until we are actually watching the balloons be filled with scorching flames that I begin to worry a little bit. How is a little bit of hot air meant to hold 10 full-grown adults up 1,000 meters in the sky? Not to mention 10 adults that have been gorging themselves silly on food and drink for the past week.

Climbing into what can only be described as a fruit basket for humans, I begin snapping away with my camera to avoid looking anyone else in the eyes in case they see my fear.

Hot Air Ballooning in Costa Brava Spain

Pulling my eye from the viewfinder I quickly realise we have already drifted several hundred meters above the ground. I was so preoccupied that I didn’t even notice how gently we had taken off.

Maybe it has something to do with the sunrise peaking its blazing head above the Costa Brava skyline. Or the tight space we have managed to all squeeze ourselves into. Or maybe it is the extreme stillness and quiet between bursts of flame.

I realize it is not that bad up here. I am even breathing normally and able to look over the edge of the basket. Who knows? Maybe someday I will start a business with a hot air balloon and entertain tourists from all over the world.

Hot Air Ballooning in Costa Brava Spain

Okay, maybe not such a good idea.

But I am able to gaze into the distance towards the Pyrenees and across the stunning Costa Brava landscape. Farmland and Medieval towns drift silently below our feet. People go about their daily lives without even realising we are drifting above them.

Hot Air Ballooning in Costa Brava Spain

It is not until we are starting to descend that irrational fear begins to take hold again.

Our Spanish-speaking pilot is gesticulating to our guide and interrupter that we are all meant to be doing something important. They both give nervous laughs before falling silent again.

Okay now would be the perfect opportunity to have finally learnt a second language like I promised myself at the beginning of the year.

Turns out that since we basically have no steering ability we are at the winds mercy. And with the coastline rapidly approaching it is time to take this contraption down to earth.

“Brace! Brace! Brace!”

Eyeing up the only clear patch of earth within a mile, our pilot is all business. The trees and houses that looked like miniature toys just a moment ago suddenly loom large directly in front of us.

Hot Air Ballooning in Costa Brava Spain

Instead of gently floating down in replication of our takeoff, we are drifting along quite quickly thanks to the wind picking up speed in the last 10 minutes.

My knuckles turn white as we brace our knees and back against the flimsy wicker basket.

And even though the command to brace is just a precaution, we still manage to bounce hard 3 times before settling down. A laugh escapes my lips as the tension eases from my muscles. And from the looks on the other’s faces, I am not the only one to be relieved we are back on solid earth again.

I had done it. I had conquered my fear.

Hot Air Ballooning in Costa Brava Spain

And if I ever get the chance to go hot air ballooning ever again, then I would jump at the chance, check the ETIAS Spain program.

I want to give a huge thanks to our incredibly talented pilot from Globus Costa Brava for taking me on a ride that will be forever remembered. And of course the extremely wonderful team at Costa Brava Tourism Board for helping me face my fears by organizing the hot air ballooning in Costa Brava, Spain.

This is a post from a series called Facing my Fears. It helps us to step outside our comfort zone, in comfort. Check out the rest of the series here.

Disclaimer: I was a guest of the Costa Brava tourism board, but as always our fears, stories, and photos are all our own.

Do you have a fear of heights or another phobia? How did you face your fears?

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Europe

My Insane The Red Light District Tour of The Amsterdam Peep Shows

Have you ever wanted to visit an Amsterdam peep show? We had the chance to go and embraced it with open arms. Check out our experience here

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Amsterdam Peep Show
An Amsterdam peep show in the red-light district is a quintessential experience, akin to visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris or Big Ben in London. While vastly different from these famous landmarks, a visit to a peep show in Amsterdam is a cultural dive into a unique, historical part of the city—one that you can’t miss if you’re interested in seeing a different side of life in this iconic destination.

Amsterdam’s red-light district, also known as De Wallen, is famous for its brothels, sex shows, and peep shows, and these attractions are deeply embedded in the city’s history. For decades, the allure of the red neon lights, the casual yet energetic atmosphere, and the unmistakable sense of eroticism have drawn visitors from all over the world. Whether it’s curiosity or the desire for an “only-in-Amsterdam” experience, the district’s peep shows remain a must-visit.

History of Peep Shows in Amsterdam

The origin of Amsterdam’s red-light district, or De Wallen, dates back to the early 14th century when the port city became a hub of trade and international movement. With sailors arriving from all over the world, the need for entertainment and leisure grew, and the district evolved to meet those demands. By the 1960s and 70s, Amsterdam’s liberal attitudes toward sex and adult entertainment gave birth to the peep show phenomenon.

Peep shows became popular as a discreet way for people to engage in voyeurism without direct interaction. Unlike live sex shows or brothels, peep shows allowed patrons to view performances from behind small booths, preserving anonymity while offering an intimate experience. Amsterdam’s peep shows reached their peak popularity during the 1980s and 90s, coinciding with the boom in tourism.

Today, with the advent of digital pornography and shifting social trends, the number of peep shows has dwindled, leaving only one remaining establishment—Sex Palace. However, this lone venue serves as a nostalgic reminder of Amsterdam’s rich and unapologetically bold adult entertainment history.

Cultural Significance of Peep Shows

Peep shows in Amsterdam are more than just adult entertainment—they symbolize the city’s long-standing liberal approach to sex and sexuality. Unlike many other parts of the world, where adult entertainment venues are relegated to dark corners and hidden locations, Amsterdam embraces these elements as part of its cultural fabric. The red-light district has become a globally recognized area, visited by millions each year, not just for its adult offerings but for its historical and social significance.

In a city where sex work is legal and regulated, the peep shows and other adult venues stand as examples of how Amsterdam leads with openness, consent, and transparency. These establishments operate in a highly regulated industry designed to protect both the workers and the patrons. For many visitors, the red-light district represents a place where societal taboos around sex are dismantled, and the normalization of adult entertainment fosters a broader understanding of personal freedom.

Is It Safe and Respectful to Visit?

One of the common concerns among first-time visitors to Amsterdam’s red-light district is safety and respect. The area is well-monitored by law enforcement, and there are strict regulations in place to protect sex workers. Security cameras are prominent, and the police maintain a visible presence to ensure a safe environment for both workers and tourists. It’s important to remember that while the district may seem casual and carefree, visitors are expected to follow certain unspoken rules.

First and foremost, photography of the workers or inside the establishments is strictly prohibited. Taking photos or videos of workers without their consent is not only highly disrespectful but also could result in fines or being asked to leave the district. Respect for the workers is paramount, and the best way to show this is by treating the experience like you would any other—whether it’s visiting a museum or a restaurant. Be polite, respect their privacy, and follow the district’s guidelines.

Furthermore, while it might be tempting to visit the peep shows or live sex shows as part of a casual sightseeing adventure, it’s essential to approach the experience with an open mind and respect for the performers. Remember, these workers are professionals providing a service, and respect should be given to them just as you would anyone else.

 

 

Amsterdam Moulin Rouge Red Light District

My Amsterdam Peep Show Tour

When we visited Amsterdam with a couple of friends, we found ourselves gravitating back to the infamous Red Light District far more often than we had anticipated. What started as a casual curiosity quickly turned into something much more—an exploration of an entirely different culture that was unlike anything we had ever experienced before. Every corner seemed to reveal something new, from the neon-lit windows to the groups of tourists wandering through the narrow streets in awe.

It was almost surreal to see how openly everything was displayed, how casually people would stroll past windows where women were advertising their services as if it were no different from window shopping for clothes. The mix of locals and tourists, all moving through the same maze of lights, was fascinating in itself. Some were laughing and taking it all in with wide eyes, while others seemed like regulars, walking confidently through the district as if it were just another day.

The whole experience felt both exhilarating and bizarre. It was like walking through an alternate reality where taboos didn’t exist. The sheer number of men knocking on the windows and then disappearing behind the curtains was staggering. I remember standing there, watching one guy nervously glance around before finally tapping on a window, the woman behind the glass motioning him inside. It all happened so fast, so casually, that it felt almost unreal.

Even though we didn’t partake in any of the window services, we were still intrigued by the whole atmosphere. After a while, we decided to take it a step further and check out an Amsterdam peep show—because if you’re going to immerse yourself in the Red Light District, why not go all the way, right? It’s one of those things you just have to do for the experience. Of course, I want to clarify that it was Adela who was really pushing for it, and I, being the good friend that I am, didn’t want to disappoint her. So, off we went, armed with curiosity and a handful of euros.

As we walked toward the infamous “Sex Palace,” the excitement was mixed with a touch of nervous laughter. The bright neon lights flickered overhead as we approached, and the air was thick with the distinct smells of the district. We made our way inside, not quite knowing what to expect but fully prepared for a story we’d be telling for years to come.

Once inside, we were greeted with sensory overload—bright flashing lights, posters of scantily clad women, and the unmistakable sound of coin slots clinking as people fed the machines for their two-minute peep show. It was an odd combination of amusement and awkwardness. The concept of stepping into a tiny booth, feeding the machine, and watching a live performance was strange enough. But seeing the audience—people you could just barely make out through the glass, doing the same thing as you—gave the whole experience an unexpectedly communal feeling.

We could barely contain our laughter as we entered the booth, the anticipation building as we dropped our coins into the slot. When the curtain lifted, the show began, and while it was everything we expected it to be—seductive, titillating, and undeniably voyeuristic—it was also something we hadn’t quite anticipated: funny. Yes, funny. Maybe it was the surreal nature of it all, or perhaps it was just seeing our friends through the other side of the glass, cracking up as the performer made her rounds. Either way, it became more of a shared joke than anything else, a bonding experience that we could laugh about for the rest of the trip.

Amsterdam Red Light District

Visiting the Amsterdam peep show

Much to our surprise, there is only one Amsterdam peep show left in the whole city back in 2012!

The very name initially “Sex Palace” is situated on the banks of one of the main canals in the heart of the red-light district on Oudezijds Achterburgwal Street. Walking under the neon flashing lights into the entranceway, your senses are assaulted by sights, sounds, and disturbing smell.

All around the walls are posters and screens showing ladies in various states of undress and positions. A whiteboard lists the movies you can rent out for your viewing pleasure in one of the many private booths. But we were only there for one thing:

The circular structure sits slightly to the left of the entrance with a dozen small doors along its walls.

Those small doors lead into equally small rooms no larger than a traditional UK phone box. A small covered viewing window blocks your view forward.

The money box clinging to the wall to operate the viewing window only accepts coins. But don’t worry if you only have notes as they handily have a large coin machine dishing out 2 euro coins for ease of watching.

Once you close the door and chuck in your money, the viewing window pops open for 2 minutes and allows you to view the large, slowly rotating stage on which a scantily dressed woman displays herself. She could have represented any country in the upcoming Olympics with her flexibility!

Amsterdam peep show Sex Palace

I was cracking up laughing the entire time I was in there because you can just make out the rest of the “audience” in the opposite booths. I even got a little wave and smile as the girl slowly revolved past my window.

The Amsterdam peep show was a little bit creepy. But even though we were there late on a Saturday night, the booths were making a roaring trade. From the hen parties to the couples, nearly everyone else was there for the same reason as us. To check out one or two rounds before heading back into the night giggling like school girls at a sleepover at what we had just done.

On the other hand, the shifty-eyed single men skulked away to their respective viewing windows again and again with pockets full of coins.

If you ever get the chance, we highly recommend taking the plunge and visiting an Amsterdam peep show. Just make sure that you are always respectful of the women in the performances and the ones on the streets!

Top 10 Amsterdam Peep Shows in 2022

  • 1 | Stripclub BonTon
  • 2 | Male Strip Show in Amsterdam For Women
  • 3 | Casa Rosso Sex Shows
  • 4 | 5D Porn Cinema
  • 5 | Moulin Rouge Amsterdam
  • 6 | Bananenbar
  • 7 | Sex Palace Peep Show
  • 8 | Hospital Bar
  • 9 | Club LV
  • 10 | La Vie en Proost – Lapdance Bar in Red Light District

Have you ever been to an Amsterdam Peep Show or a Sex show? Tell us about your experience.

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Meet Cole and Adela

Cole and AdelaWe have been wearing out our jandals (Kiwi for flip-flops) on our travel adventures around the world since 2009. We think our blog is thought provoking and a little witty. But we have been proven wrong before. Find out more about us here...

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