Already a member? Not a member? Sign up Explore our Food Tours → we’ve grown accustomed to the barrage of lists telling us where to travel during the next 12 months Often these places are a country or even a whole region – you could spend an entire year exploring just one of the locations listed and still barely make a dent We like to travel on a smaller scale. Forget countries and cities, for us the neighborhood is the ideal unit of exploration. Celebrating neighborhood life and businesses is, of course, essential to what we do as Culinary Backstreets. Since our founding in 2012, we’ve been dedicated to publishing the stories of unsung local culinary heroes and visiting them on our food walks particularly in neighborhoods that are off the beaten path while a justifiably important economic force in many cities can devastate the urban ecosystem if not distributed responsibly into neighborhoods otherwise neglected by the travel industry two years ago we launched an annual “Neighborhoods to Visit” guide featuring areas off the main tourist trail from all the cities that we cover Yet as various other annual “must-visit” guides have made clear following the same formula year after year can lead to selecting destinations solely for the purpose of a complete list focusing on a smaller selection of neighborhoods (as well as the people and places that keep them going) that truly deserve the extra attention Below is a compilation of six less-visited areas that our correspondents are eager to explore this year: Marseille: Cinq-Avenues When locals say that all roads lead to Cinq-Avenues The neighborhood’s nucleus is a star-shaped intersection at which cars trams and scooters seamlessly crisscross in a marvel of urban choreography The quartier actually inherited its name from the busy junction has six not five (cinq) streets – three grand boulevards and three avenues Cinq-Avenues is a village that feels like a mini-metropolis a movie theater and a sprawling park that houses one of the city’s most majestic monuments the vibrant neighborhood is where the fleuriste the boulangerie and the boucherie know your name – and each others’ thanks to the active neighborhood association making Cinq-Avenues a veritable foodie paradise one that offers a snapshot of Marseille’s diversity: U Mio Paese a Lebanese/Armenian restaurant run by sisters makes the famous Sôcisse de Marseille while its neighbor has been serving seafood platters since 1946 the toe of Cinq-Avenues starts at the end of Marseille’s main drag and stretches north to the bustling Boulevard Sakahini Place Sébastopol’s market stalls and café terraces sit to the east while the aforementioned limestone palace marks the western border This architectural stunner sparked the neighborhood’s growth – it was built in 1869 to commemorate the construction of the Canal de Marseille which transports much-needed water from the Durance River to the city Cinq-Avenues has welcomed a steady stream of locals drawn to its village vibe The tram’s construction in 2007 made it even more geographically desirable a wave of young couples and families have arrived lured by the park and the stylish Art Deco buildings priced lower than the hipster ‘hoods of Vauban and Saint-Victor They convene at the Cane Bière (a beer bar whose name winks at Marseille’s most famous road) and the bar à vin Bistrot de Margaux pâtisserie Bricoleur de Douceurs and fromagerie Art de la Fromagerie The recent uptick hasn’t changed the communal spirit a café that’s chock-a-block with vintage décor Dès 2020 et son arrivée aux manettes de la Ville, le Printemps marseillais a souhaité la création d’une Cité des transitions à Marseille dédiés aux centaines d’acteurs impliqués localement dans les transitions écologiques et sociales de Marseille les fédérer et booster leurs actions Il aura fallu attendre deux ans pour que cette structure prenne forme, en 2022 avec la création de l’association L’assemblée constitutive avait réuni une centaine d’acteurs Deux ans de plus ont été nécessaires pour structurer cet organe qui compte désormais trois salariés Et enfin, après son site internet C’est ce qu’on apprend à l’issue du dernier conseil d’administration La mairie est sur le point de signer une convention d’occupation d’un an renouvelable pour 420 m2 de bureaux dans un local municipal au 47 rue Chape (4e) la Cité des transitions pourra y prendre ses quartiers Ce lieu deviendra « un espace partagé dédié aux transitions écologiques et sociales un centre de ressources et de vie pour la communauté » de formation et de réunion à l’équipe permanente fédérer et aider les projets de transitions marseillais D’autre part, l’espace offrira des bureaux privatifs pour des structures qui en ont besoin. Dans ce sens, un appel a candidatures à été lancé. Il s’adresse principalement à des associations ou organisations à but non lucratif. Elles peuvent candidater ici Il s’agit d’une étape importante pour la Cité des transitions qui ambitionne d’être un moteur fédérateur pour accélérer la transformation écologique et sociale de Marseille Mais elle doit encore franchir d’autres paliers Notamment en concrétisant « l’Open Lab » qui doit faire travailler en commun les acteurs des transitions le collectivités et entreprises… L’Open Lab pourrait entrer en action au printemps nous souffle-t-on du côté de la municipalité Leads our work globally on organisation for players in the energy industry and supports companies across sectors on enterprise-wide agile transformations Leads McKinsey’s Northern European hub of the Life Sciences Practice and the firm’s global healthcare organisation and enterprise agility work 2018In a time of rapid change and unprecedented complexity the life expectancy of an S&P 500 company was 90 years it was 14 years and studies show that it’s getting even shorter who are tired of change fatigue and endless restructuring are looking at how they can become a more agile organization and retain their competitive advantage Agility, as defined by McKinsey Senior Partner, Aaron De Smet is the “ability of an organization to renew itself Agility is not incompatible with stability – quite the contrary Agility requires stability for most companies.” agility is an organizational model designed for the age of the iPhone and offers a future without major restructurings Adopting the agile way of working generates up to three times higher shareholder returns develops better products faster and cheaper Our recent experience makes us believe that this is possible at an enterprise-level. Based on our research and experience with agile organizations, they universally exhibit five trademarks: we believe agile transformations must be comprehensive and iterative they require a leadership team committed to change and organizations with missions strong enough to sustain the change needed This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page I grew up on a block in Brooklyn during the 1950s I was let out at the age of 5 to roam one side of the block between 4th and 5 avenues (just for the record I have no issue with parents using playdates in a post-Etan Patz world.) To entertain myself I was given a red rubber ball manufactured by the Spaulding company On the block they were known as “spalldeens” My friends and I spent hours just bouncing this thing around we spent the hours between school and the call for dinner When we were a little older and allowed in the street I can’t say how this affected the brains of kids who grew up in this era but I know the Surgeon General at the time didn’t come out with a proposal to put warning labels on “Spalldeens” That happened last week when Vivek Murthy came out in favor of warning labels on smartphones used by children Apparently studies show hours spent staring into these handheld portals is having a damaging effect on kids Mostly in terms of social interaction and long-term alienation And I have to admit I find myself watching reels of mountain goats scaling sheer cliffs We’re not going back to the “spalldeen” A Critical Moment for a Beloved Brooklyn Venue On May 2nd and 3rd The Music Matters will present a two-night indie music showcase at Our Wicked Lady (OWL)in Bushwick What began as a grassroots blog has evolved into a platform dedicated to elevating New York City’s emerging music talent The showcase also arrives at a turning point Author George Fiala George Fiala has worked in radio newspapers and direct marketing his whole life except for when he was a vendor at Shea Stadium He studied English and drinking in college staff are reshaping the way elementary schoolers learn educationally and socially They’ve put special emphasis on programs for students with intellectual disabilities and students who are learning or want to learn a second language making sure those students have the same advantages and interactions any other child would The New York City Council primary is less than three months away Incumbents Alexa Avilés (District 38) and Shahana Hanif (District 39) are being challenged by two moderate Democrats What are some potential avenues that Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton could pursue ahead of another crossroads offseason in 2022 It won’t be much longer before we find out what comes next for Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton. The former NFL MVP is out of contract this offseason after a two-year agreement couldn’t be worked out before his bombshell return ahead of Week 10 at the Arizona Cardinals but with head coach Matt Rhule benching the player in favor of Sam Darnold down the stretch the chances of him earning an extension appear unlikely at this juncture Newton was certainly in a much more reflective mood during his exit presser speaking on how the return gave him some semblance of closure and that he has absolutely no regrets coming back It might not have gone as planned and things were probably much different from the last time he occupied a locker but the iconic figure can walk away with his head held high if this is the end of his time in Carolina There wasn’t much to cheer for the Panthers in 2021 Newton’s return provided fans with a sense of excitement not before seen under the current regime even if it only lasted for a brief time before the same cracks began to emerge here are five potential avenues Newton could explore ahead of the next stage of his journey Playing the waiting game worked for Cam Newton in 2021 when the Carolina Panthers came calling But that wasn’t until over midway through the season and if he chooses to do so again He’s earned plenty throughout his career and even though he might not be the force of old the player probably still feels he could shine from a starting role providing a full offseason is given somewhere the NFL is a ruthless business and teams move on quickly This could mean Newton is not on any team’s radar when it comes to a starting gig right now – even though injury and poor form could alter this perception either in training camp or during the 2022 season © 2025 Minute Media - All Rights Reserved The content on this site is for entertainment and educational purposes only Betting and gambling content is intended for individuals 21+ and is based on individual commentators' opinions and not that of Minute Media or its affiliates and related brands All picks and predictions are suggestions only and not a guarantee of success or profit If you or someone you know has a gambling problem crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER ","https://fansided.com/",{"alt":"6l","src":"6m","url":"6n"},{"type":"6k","value":"6o"},"link","Minute Media","https://www.minutemedia.com/",{"text":"6r","url":"6s"},{"type":"6q","value":"6t"},"All Rights Reserved Betting and gambling content is intended for individuals 21+ and is based on individual commentators' opinions and not that of Minute Media or its affiliates and related brands Dean is Site Expert at Cat Crave covering the Carolina Panthers and Site Expert at Riggo's Rag which focuses on the Washington Commanders \n\nDean is a qualified journalist who's edited and written thousands of articles since joining FanSided He was a former print journalist and digital editor with news publications in North Wales before becoming an award-winning communications manager at a leading private school in the United Kingdom Dean enjoys spending time with his wife and two children It won’t be much longer before we find out what comes next for Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton. The former NFL MVP is out of contract this offseason after a two-year agreement couldn’t be worked out before his bombshell return ahead of Week 10 at the Arizona Cardinals Newton was certainly in a much more reflective mood during his exit presser When asked about becoming a backup somewhere That’s something Newton is well within his rights to say He’s given absolutely everything to the NFL and standing on the sidelines for a team like the Carolina Panthers or another potential struggling organization is a sad way for him to go out Although some sections of the media would tell you otherwise Newton has long been regarded as an exceptional teammate Someone other players gravitate towards and this was evident right out of the gate once he returned to Carolina This could be invaluable for a team looking for a veteran backup presence There is also the intriguing element of utilizing Newton is specialist packages in the red zone or short-yardage situations should they choose Accepting such a role also keeps Newton involved Considering he’s shown no signs of walking away just yet the scenario is something to consider providing the fit is right much of his time is spent working on his 7v7 coaching initiative This allows talented young players to get some expert advice and guidance in pursuit of improving their respective skill sets something that’s been highly beneficial in developing the technical aspect and improving mindset for good measure This is a responsibility he takes incredibly seriously and one only has to look at his community involvement during his two stints with the Carolina Panthers to see just how much it means to the former Heisman Trophy winner Coaching is something few former players end up doing successfully the narrative has changed in recent years and it’s another potential avenue that Newton could explore if he decides that the juice is no longer worth the squeeze from a playing standpoint https://twitter.com/CamNewton7v7/status/1487576673994387460 There is no doubt Newton would be a tremendous asset at any level of coaching His charisma and ability to motivate have been key components behind his overall success throughout a glittering career which is something that would also command instant respect of those he is passing on vital knowledge to Newton might not ever have a desire to become an NFL head coach or even be part of a professional organization But that doesn’t mean the signal-caller could not make a significant difference to those looking to follow in his footsteps Another potential option for Cam Newton that he’s already begun to explore is the world of media Whether that’s with his own production company or his Sip n’ Smoke show this is an area where his magnetism and charisma really come across and something that could become a great success when he does hang up his cleats Newton is a well-spoken individual who is extremely knowledgeable about modern culture and all things football There isn’t much that the quarterback hasn’t seen throughout his career and the contacts generated could come extremely handy if this option is pursued more aggressively in the coming years There is also the option of Newton potentially becoming an analyst for either college football or the NFL providing there is interest from a particular network Places like Fox and ESPN are always on the lookout for strong personalities that can get their opinions across in an effective manner – which is an area where former Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olsen has excelled during his first season post-retirement this would result in Newton walking away from the playing aspect of the game But that doesn’t mean he wouldn’t have a significant amount to offer once this storied period of his life concludes But there is a very slight chance Cam Newton could retire and step away from the limelight entirely This seems almost unfathomable for someone who has been at the focal point of the media spotlight almost from the moment he entered the league as the No. 1 overall selection in 2011 this can become a bit tiresome and nobody would blame Newton for taking a step back to refresh and consider what comes next if he does opt for retirement at some stage during the offseason He certainly doesn’t owe anything to the Carolina Panthers and deserves credit for coming back into the fold given how his first release was handled by the organization It would certainly be sad for fans who have supported Newton through thick and thin But if this is the avenue he chooses to go down the Panthers must do right by the player and give him the send-off he undoubtedly deserves 4 logical landing spots for Cam Newton in 2022 free agency Newton lived up to expectations en route to become the league’s greatest-ever rushing quarterback A transcendent talent whose efforts in Carolina will live through the ages By Anisa Saleh As part of the 2022 Summer in the Field Fellowship program sponsored by the Boston University Global Development Policy Center a consultancy group working to formulate strategies and implement solutions that generate lasting social This research is expected to benefit the Kenya Ministry of Health and Kenya as a whole as policy changes will strengthen the health system structure This work will also be instrumental for PEPFAR and other countries in sub-Saharan Africa with PEFPAR funded health information system (HIS) initiatives The project also entailed collaboration with the Kenya Ministry of Health HIS service delivery partners and local stakeholders Figure 1: Kenya Electronic Medical Records System Distribution Working towards sustaining KeHMIS will be a big undertaking there are five avenues for consideration that can support sustaining the HIS through long-term local public and private sector commitments: These five avenues can assist in navigating the road to sustaining the KeHMIS however there are complicating factors that may emerge The inclusion of various organizations may pose hurdles in aligning diverse interests It will also be important to avoid a repeat of heavy reliance on external donor support when approaching collaborating partners and focusing more on longstanding local support The decade long KeHMIS project has primarily received funding from PEPFAR Transitioning donor funded projects to be locally sustained can be challenging the recommendations offer considerations to navigate these challenges including diversifying and maintaining future support on the different components of KeHMIS from both the public and private sectors across technology To engage local private sector organizations the KeHMIS project should watch for strong business proposals demonstrating impact and alignment among common priorities Investing in the HIS will improving the health of their customers and enable these organizations to retain a healthier customer base that will continue to seek their services high quality health data will continue to be more readily available to support clinical decision-making and assist in evidence-based public health actions for the Kenyan population All of which contribute to providing better quality services and care for patients seeking HIV and other healthcare services Taking an integrated approach in creating policies and strategies will be essential and can aid in embedding long-term commitments into the foundation of Kenya’s HIS future Anisa Saleh is a second year Doctor of Public Health student at Boston University School of Public Health and a 2022 Summer in the Field Fellow. Learn more about the Summer in the Field Fellowship Program Donate Stay on top of all our news and events. Sign up for our newsletters east of the barrier island’s Village Most of the 140 or so homes back onto four wide canals which provide attractive water views and space for private docks The main entrance into the neighborhood is where Higel Avenue meets Sandy Nook Street three of them with “Sandy” in their name separated by the man-made channels that connect to the Grand Canal waterway system A back entrance via Sandy Beach Avenue leads east into the subdivision next door You can paddleboard or kayak from your property,” said Ryan Carson “It’s a 20-minute ride to Sarasota Bay because you have to go slow – no wake – but there is only one bridge at Midnight Pass Road so you can have a good-sized motorboat.” With many of the houses built in the late 1950s and 1960s the neighborhood has an old-Florida ambiance A wide variety of palms abound – queen slash pines and Norfolk pines provide shade and natural beauty Some properties are xeriscaped with white pebbles covering most of the ground hedges and lush greenery surrounding the homes Roofing comes in all kinds of colors and types – shingle But a number of them have been torn down and replaced by larger homes in Mediterranean contemporary and even post-modern architectural design Many come with screened-in lanais and private swimming pools Residences range in size from two- to five bedrooms with living space covering 1,234 to over 5,000 square feet While there are some homes valued in the low $500,000s prices generally range from the mid-to-upper $700,000s and can go to $1.5 million and above The biggest homes have two-stories and are of recent construction many of the vintage ranch homes have been extensively renovated on the inside Carson’s pending sale at 5146 Sandy Beach Ave Its recent owners gutted and completely remodeled the interior “They raised the ceilings in some places added impact hurricane doors and windows,” Carson explained which is really the homes effective date now.” The remodeled house has 2,973 square feet of living space and a sale price of $1.299 million “It was move-in ready and on the market for only three days We held a lot of showings and a young family with kids in school liked,” said Carson but plenty of room on the property to build one.” Residents of Sara Sands represent an eclectic mix of retirees Carson has noticed an increase of younger buyers “I see a trend of young families with children – professionals business owners – moving into Sara Sands and Siesta Key in general,” he said They like the convenient access to a variety of schools The Out-of-Door Academy is just a third of a mile north on Higel Avenue Pine View School has a bus stop on Siesta Key The district schools are Phillippi Shores elementary Another attractive feature is the close proximity to Siesta Village with shops recently rated #1 in the United States by TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice awards Considering that the pandemic is still raging the annual travel lists that come out at this time of year have taken on a new shape: Rather than promoting destinations the focus is on the places that people want to visit when things open back up visions buttressed by more personal recollections which is all the more reason to dream of trips past and future Since we like to travel on a smaller scale – for us the neighborhood is the ideal unit of exploration – we launched our own take on the annual travel list in 2018 as a way to feature areas off the main tourist trail that our correspondents were excited to explore But as we contemplated what to do with the guide in this pandemic year we found ourselves focusing less on the travel component and more on the unique culinary cultures of the cities where we work What will happen to the people who sustain them And how will Covid-19 reshape neighborhood life Barcelona: Sant Andreu Click here to read last year’s dispatch from Sant Andreu This past year has altered large swaths of Barcelona with the touristic center taking perhaps the biggest hit But even the modest neighborhood of Sant Andreu del Palomar a former village that encapsulates the spirit of Barcelona barrio life which is comprised of wide avenues lined with large residential buildings and old factories transformed into community and cultural centers of different kinds bars and restaurants woven into its fabric have fared What we found is that Sant Andreu is holding up as best it can with residents doing their part to sustain their favorite local spots Many of the city’s small establishments have struggled with the various restrictions and lockdowns which will continue for the foreseeable future the permitted opening hours are as follows: breakfast from 7:30 a.m (mostly at bars and cafeterias) and lunch from 1 p.m with only takeaway and delivery service allowed for dinner We already saw how our friends at the excellent TocaTeca were coping with the situation during the summer: Forced to reduce the number of tables inside they enlarged their terrace and increased their takeaway offerings to include packages for the “vermouth hour” and meal-prep kits complete with a wooden spoon that makes you feel as if you’re actually dining in the restaurant a traditional spot that has been weathering ups and downs since 1955 has expanded their offerings to include a takeaway service of tapas for the vermut hour in addition to the bottled and bulk wine that’s normally available Unfortunately, two of the neighborhood’s classic spots have disappeared, although for natural, non-pandemic-related causes: First, Taverna Can Roca the wonderful old-school eatery that had been recently revived by new ownership the iconic restaurant under the old market porticoes has opened in its place – it was a bold move to launch a new project on the premises of a formerly beloved restaurant particularly in these challenging conditions Another relative newcomer to the neighborhood is La Bodegueta de Sant Andreu a tiny tapas bar-restaurant with a bodega soul that opened in 2019 this past year was extremely hard for them which came right when business had started to pick up But they have kept La Bodegueta running thanks to delivery and takeaway as well as their medium-sized terrace on Rambla Fabra i Puig which complements the few remaining indoor tables Istanbul: Fatih/Akşemsettin Street Click here to read last year’s dispatch from Fatih/Akşemsettin Street Like many lively cities Istanbul’s vitality has been severely threatened by the pandemic especially those with a high density of bars have emptied out as the establishments that brought in the crowds have either been forced to close down or are limited to providing delivery and takeout services many coffee shops and eateries are struggling to stay afloat a dismal array of empty storefronts serves as a jarring reminder of how much economic damage the pandemic has caused our introduction to the delectable world of Yemeni cuisine Bouz Al-Jidi had blocked off its miniature dining room with the falafel station and the falafel was crispy and sung with the sharp notes of coriander seeds The young chef handed us a sample of the falafel – a delicious dimpled disc – as he made our wrap fresh to order the flagship South American hot beverage that Syrians brought back home after migrating to the continent for work in the 19th century and a bag of mate produced in Argentina but packed in Syria and with a label printed in Arabic which we had heard was a favorite brand among Syrians Lisbon: Alvalade Click here to read last year’s dispatch from Alvalade After a year that altered so many lives and businesses it was surprising to visit northern Lisbon’s Alvalade neighborhood and see that not much has changed – at least at first glance it appears livelier than most of Lisbon at the moment Many traditional businesses are still going strong with pharmacies and the Mercado de Alvalade playing an essential role in daily pandemic life But for the owners of small restaurants and tascas is bursting with life: There are people shopping while others are seated at cafés and restaurants (both on outdoor terraces and indoors) and get behind four other people waiting in line to enter the shop which originally opened in Baixa in 1934 but moved to Alvalade in 1957 Once we finally step inside (only two people are allowed at a time in small stores) Is it because the government announced a new lockdown that would start in three days One staff member explains that it’s been like this all year: “The younger generations started to shop here in the past five years a trend that’s only increased during the pandemic one of the neighborhood’s new establishments includes a Bertrand bookstore (the company has outposts all over Portugal) and not just for Christmas – as the staff tells it weathered the initial lockdown and has kept their outdoor terrace open throughout the winter whereas they used to close their doors completely in the colder months In addition to the weekend lockdowns that put an end to their hectic Saturdays their capacity has diminished significantly due to Covid-19 sanitary protocols This has been the biggest issue for small restaurants Solar Minhoto will continue doing takeaway but they don’t offer delivery mainly because the delivery companies’ high fees make it difficult for restaurants to turn a profit The outrage over these charges was so widespread that the Portuguese government has announced a 20 percent cap for the new lockdown that just started Sadly, not all of the neighborhood’s classic spots were able to pull through. Adega da Bairrada closed its door for good shortly after the first lockdown no longer serving the pernil (the pork shank) and the fried octopus fillets that attracted so many Lisboetas to Alvalade It’s a sad reminder that for many businesses Click here to read last year’s dispatch from Cinq-Avenues During Marseille’s first coronavirus lockdown in March 2020 citizens were restricted from venturing more than 1 km from their homes Shopping local became more than ethos – it was essential neighborhoods with well-stocked shops fared better than others Cinq-Avenues has a village-like ambiance – it’s the type of place where residents are on a first name basis with vendors at the outdoor market as well as the owners of independent shops With people cooking at home due to restaurant closures the neighborhood’s abundance of epicurean addresses was well poised to feed their cravings vital for Cinq-Avenues’ large population of seniors so they could avoid the high surcharges of UberEats The two shops found silver linings among 2020’s wreckage “Corsicans living in Marseille couldn’t travel so they came here,” explains U Mio Paese’s Marc-Antoine Maison Calambo welcomed former clients of famed écailler (“oyster seller”) Toinou and added more fish to their menu to compensate for the lack of in-person dining Bar Tabac 5 Avenues redid their exterior during the first lockdown though we prefer the old-school cursive of the original sign Sales were down 50 percent each month at the corner bar the neighborhood’s watering hole lost essential café and pastis sales Frustrated by France putting “people’s health over the economy,” the owner laments but how do we pay for food without money?” Boni and the second location of popular Pain Pan The family-owned Pachamama Sud food truck rolled into the farmers’ market tacos and other Latin American bites for which the restaurant the truck was planned before the pandemic hit and has allowed for a steady stream of income while the restaurant remains shuttered) Paco Rôtisserie has dished up roast chickens Their takeout-only space and home-style fare are apt for the times as we crave comfort food more than ever Hence why Bricoleur de Douceurs’ sales of their fantastic pâtisseries stayed consistent in spite of having to close their salon de thé. “It’s because we all need comfort,” shares the counterperson as he hands us a slice of cake au citron. Which Cinq-Avenues makes easy to find. – Alexis Steinman Mexico City: Narvarte and Del Valle On a weekday in a normal January the streets of Narvarte and Del Valle would be bustling with workers back to the grind after the holidays and residents enjoying the 70-degree days that are common this time of year But on our recent jaunt through these two neighborhoods the scene was quiet – unsurprising given the fact that Mexico City’s second lockdown A few handfuls of workers occupied the sidewalks and a scattering of residents could be seen shuffling in and out of the local convenience store as garbage collectors strapped dried-out Christmas trees to their trucks to haul away Areas of the neighborhoods near the local markets and the small roundabouts with mixed-use housing and commercial space seemed to have a little more action but overall it was more like a lazy Sunday than a Monday in the city have converted to “car service” where you can park up and a waiter will come to your window to take your order While fun as a throwback to the 1950s (minus the roller skates) car service certainly can’t make up for the hundreds of walk-ins they were once getting nightly Most of our favorite cafés and restaurants in the area have been able to ride out the pandemic despite drops of 50 percent or more in sales There have even been a few success stories “We’ve actually done really great,” says Alicia Carranza who works the counter at the Costra bakery “We haven’t had to close completely during the entire pandemic.” As for the current lockdown Alicia says this time around it’s been a little quieter but between walk-ins and orders they’ve managed to stay afloat “At least we’re still here!” she says in tired triumph Oaxacan restaurant Las Tlayudas had to move out of its large space on Insurgentes Avenue because the rent was so high and they were unable to negotiate it down But they found a new location on Luz Saviñon Street and were doing well until the most recent shutdown told us that of all their locations in the city the one in Narvarte has far and away sold the most keeping them afloat throughout these tough months “When all this started our flagship location We suffered an overall drop of about 80 percent across all our locations But what was interesting was the location that recovered and became our leader in sales was Narvarte,” he explains Both Octavio and Alicia credit the neighborhood for their survival “We have survived because of the neighbors,” says Alicia Narvarte and Del Valle certainly have something going for them that more touristy neighborhoods don’t: They are mainly residential and therefore provide a more consistent client base for local businesses “Even though staying at home is extremely important right now,” says Octavio We are the neighborhood coffee shop for a lot of people There has been lots of turnover in the neighborhood – not just closures “The locale across the street was a little market of various restaurants and that closed for good they put up a nail place and then closed down Down the street there are a bunch of places all in a strip and then new places have opened,” says Alicia This constant shifting is obvious as you walk through the neighborhood where there are for-sale and for-rent signs everywhere on both businesses and apartment buildings Tokyo: Kiyosumi Shirakawa Click here to read last year’s dispatch from Kiyosumi Shirakawa “Oh tell me how the neighborhood has changed!” We’re chatting with a woman behind a café counter in Kiyosumi Shirakawa an area to the east of Tokyo’s Sumida River “We’re local people so we don’t know!” she exclaims her eyes above her mask doing all the smiling and her tone indicating a genuine curiosity Given the devastation that the coronavirus pandemic has wreaked upon the hospitality industry worldwide which experienced only a minor first wave compared to Europe or the US has seen many restaurant closures as people refrain from outings Yet with remote working on the rise and people staying closer to home some of Tokyo’s suburbs have been bustling in contrast to an unusually quiet city center known as a family neighborhood with a large number of cafés offering takeout drinks is particularly well set up to tempt locals out for a stroll; in fact This exchange with the woman behind the counter takes place at the newly opened Hatameki a café and cultural space run by Mizuki Ema with crafts and knick-knacks for sale by the door and a stage-like platform for performances strolling landscape garden centered around a sculpted pond with large rock stepping stones Ema drew inspiration from the writings of Jean-Jacques Rousseau: “Plant a stake crowned with flowers in the middle of a square; gather the people together there Hatameki is a place where everyone can become the main characters and feel free to take one step forward – however small – towards living a life true to themselves Ema is serving up an umami-rich beef tendon tomato stew with a perfectly boiled egg There are at least 10 restaurants and cafés that have opened in Kiyosumi Shirakawa in the past year ranging from a Vietnamese restaurant to a Thai joint a banana juice stand to a natural wine bar a narrow tachinomi (standing-drinking bar) boasting regional sake and craft gin who is a gifted conversationalist as well as excellent at recommending sake to match one’s tastes the bar has built up a late-night following of locals who stop by on their way back home after drinking in the city Carrying on the area’s reputation as a coffee hub the black-tiled B² has a sleek industrial design to reflect its status as Japan’s first ever café where bread is baked and coffee beans are roasted on site The roasting process is overseen by a New Zealander and the coffee is made by a Melbourne-trained barista their flat white (made properly with a double ristretto born in September from the pandemic itself had finally resolved to leave Japan after 14 years she accepted an offer to work for an IT firm in Malaysia with the dream of eventually opening her own coffee shop there Ou was wondering what to do when an acquaintance approached her about a new coworking space opening in Kiyosumi Shirakawa She jumped on board. With five years’ barista experience Ou has built up a catalogue of specialty beans that she carefully selects for both hand-drip and espresso-based drinks Kiyosumi Shirakawa is home to several specialty food stores a chocolate atelier that induces happiness simply from the sweet and seductive scent that wafts through the air “I remember you from last year!” one staff member says with a smile before explaining that they have seen minimal impact from Covid so people stop by on their way past.” The store continues to collaborate with several other local producers; we sample a devilishly rich Hokkaido butter chocolate using butter specially made at nearby cheese shop Voice of Cheese Since our visit, a sharp rise in coronavirus cases in Tokyo has prompted the Japanese government to issue a second state of emergency and request that people stay home as much as possible. This will no doubt take a toll on businesses. Yet there is something about Kiyosumi Shirakawa that speaks of resilience. During the first state of emergency in April 2020 a local designer created a free poster for restaurants to advertise takeout Perhaps it’s not only Hatameki that reflects Rousseau’s open-air festival where the audience becomes the spectacle; perhaps Kiyosumi Shirakawa, itself, becomes a neighborhood in the sense that it is performed by us all. – Phoebe Amoroso Editor’s note: We will be publishing new dispatches from particular restaurants markets and food shops in these districts all week The 2019 Rotary International Avenues of Service Citation was presented to Virginia Henderson on Wednesday for her dedicated service to Rotary in all five avenues of service One member is annually nominated by the Rotary Club of Madison to receive the Rotary International Avenues of Service Citation Recipients are selected for their volunteer efforts carried out within all five avenues of service which are club “Virginia Henderson has been a staunch supporter of our Rotary Club of Madison for so many years,” Rotary Club of Madison President Jason Beren tells Madison365 talent and energy to helping make our community a better place through her service to Rotary We are proud of her service to Rotary and to our community and this award was our way of saying thank you to Virginia.” Henderson joined Rotary in 1995 and was a school psychologist with the Madison Metropolitan School District She was also a founding member of the Foundation for Madison Schools Chefs have long touted – and scientific research has confirmed – that we “eat with our eyes.” Hence the swishes and swirls of plating Yet the importance of visual stimulation extends beyond food to include restaurant design a point that is not lost on the all-day café Monsieur Madame The eye-catching space is so full of ‘60s and ‘70s knick-knacks that you might mistake it for a vintage shop Vinyl records are used as placemats on the brightly colored Formica tables Shelves overflow with old cameras and plastic figurines the walls offer a visual feast – so chock-a-block with mementos the vivid print wallpaper is somehow mellowed Their artful eye makes the overall effect homey rather than hoarder or a roast chicken salad depending on the day The most popular menu item is a wink to the café’s name The croque monsieur comes in three ways: ham and cheese the Corsican pork liver sausage that is irresistibly good when grilled these French-style grilled cheeses become a madame Instead of the traditional béchamel (a buttery milk sauce) Jean-Michel uses a gooey Parmesan cream that deliciously blisters when broiled Sourced with the same enthusiasm as their vintage finds the couple pours beers from France (Brasserie Sulauze) Europe (Spain’s Doskiwis Brewing) and across the ocean (Northern Cali’s Heretic Brewing.) The extra perk in tune with the couple’s desire to keep quality high and prices low Monsieur Madame has grown into a neighborhood hub since opening in 2017. The nearby florist brings flowers to wish the couple a happy new year. A customer leaves her daughter with Jean-Michel as she runs an errand next door. Many of the clientele are local regulars, as is fitting for the quartier, Cinq-Avenues which is known for its connected community The bond is so strong that people still pop in after they’ve moved like the retired man beside us who takes the tram from the 12th arrondissement when he misses his old haunt That community spirit fuels their long 17-hour days Frustrated by the high cost of running a café in France Jean-Michel and Myriam dream of decamping to the States fix serving American beer and Hulk Hogan figurines Though the giant movie poster of hometown ‘60s star Fernandel and an old Noailles 68 tram sign indicate that you’re firmly in Marseille loading map - please wait...Map could not be loaded - please enable Javascript!→ more information If Marseille is a city of 111 villages, Cinq-Avenues is a village that feels like a mini-metropolis the neighborhood brims with personable local businesses rather than impersonal chain stores Some places have seen generations pass through their doors – like Maison Calambo a family-run spot that has been shucking shellfish since 1946 Named for a species of gray shrimp found in the Atlantic and the Mediterranean this small écailler (the French word that is both noun – oyster seller – and verb – to open an oyster) embodies the prized Gallic custom of seafood stands New Year’s Eve and during other celebrations French families gather around teeming shellfish platters the perfect pairing to festive bubbles and the ideal antidote to fatty foie gras Yet the demand to work over the holidays and for long hours has made the métier (job) less and less common Alain Grégoire and his son Kévin are the père et fils that are proudly upholding the tradition Started by Kévin’s great-grandfather at the end of the Second World War Maison Calambo was helmed by his grand-père His retirement spurned Alain to help run the historic address (together with his brother-in-law) Though he had never worked in the food service industry the longtime diver has always had an intimate relationship with the sea He used to gather sea urchins for the family business on the Côte Bleue the picturesque turquoise coast north of Marseille “I’ve sold everything from cars to vacuum cleaners,” joked the veteran salesman “Now I peddle seafood.” When Alain’s wife’s brother decided to hang up his oyster knife They stock their seafood stand with briny oysters where the oysters are finished in algae ponds to give them their green color and intriguing flavor clams and whelks plus local specialties like violets (an orange-fleshed shellfish whose funky taste is either loved or loathed) and favouilles the itty-bitty green crabs that make a delectable soup Old black-and-white photos on the walls of Maison Calambo show Marseillais circa the 1950s crowding in front of the stand some customers prefer to slurp their oysters sur place (on site) In response to this changing tide in seafood consumption the duo added tables in 2017 to create an inviting space for their clients tuna tartare and pan-seared fillets of fresh daurade (sea bream) When moules frites (mussels and fries) are on the menu especially when they are served in a cream and egg-yolk poulette sauce (poulette means “chick”) the women beside us finished their mussels and were trying to savor every last bit of sauce as best they could – he offered them a spoon but they opted for more baguette to sop it up in true French fashion “You need to be inventive and surprise the client,” explained Alain who creates recipes for the plat du jour based on the shellfish on hand homemade pistou (a French sauce somewhat similar to pesto) eggplant and onions – since the “ladies like their vegetables,” Alain winked Cooked in a giant paella pan next to the open front window the aromatic dish made for great publicity luring passersby to pop in for lunch or buy containers to bring home While the full menu is only served during lunch customers can order seafood platters at all hours from breakfast oysters to an apèro of bright-orange sea urchins All the wine comes from Alain’s winemaker friends including the popular Domaine de Paternel white and rosé from Cassis Maison Calambo has a terrace on the triangular square in front of the stand providing a shaded respite from the city’s swelter Maison Calambo is an ideal spot: The intimate room and familial welcome makes eating alone less lonely the écailler’s calendar mirrors the oyster season with the last platters being assembled for Mother’s Day Maison Calambo stays open most of the year except for August winter seafood festivals of sea urchins (oursins) – and have plans to start serving small plates at night for summer apèros It seems these shuckers are up for anything In wanders a helmet-clad father-daughter duo searching for sirops (a sweet cordial) to cool off after their scoot She looks hungrily at the platter of cookies on the bar the bartender peels a fragrant pile of ginger for the evening’s cocktail rush there’s good food and drink to be had at any hour Neighborhood regulars ease into the day with a coffee. The tasty food draws a steady lunch crowd, and at apéro hour, the outdoor terrace fills up for post-work drinks. As night falls, a younger crowd enjoys some of the city’s best cocktails and tapas. Since opening in 2016, Le Parpaing qui Flotte (the name which translates as “Cinder Block That Floats,” is an inside joke between owners Jean-Régis and Farah) has been a fixture in La Camas from morning to midnight for fans like us who venture from another part of town it’s the kind of place you wish you had in your quartier Jean-Régis and Farah didn’t take a direct route into the restaurant world Both had dabbled in the industry: Jean-Régis washed dishes to make extra cash as a musician and Farah worked for a caterer during her studies in London Jean-Régis hired Farah for his carpentry business Its focus on build-outs for trade shows and events like Cannes sent them on the road often When traveling, they would fantasize about opening their own place. “We had this game,” Farah explains, “where we would say, ‘We’d make this cocktail in our bar,’ or ‘We’d never have these tables in our restaurant.’” Back at home, a shuttered bar near their atelier in La Camas, a neighborhood sandwiched between Cinq-Avenues and colorful Cours Julien the duo decided to take their joke seriously With its corner location and sizeable terrace on a side street “the space dictated that it would be an all-day affair.” they transformed the tired bar into an eye-catching spot Out went the stark white tiles; in went wooden floors pendulum lights and the aforementioned zinc bar to match the heft of the cocktails plant-lined patio beneath a vaulted windowed ceiling with pops of colored glass Jean-Régis fashioned bars out of parking barriers and wooden shelves for patrons to put their drinks the piano in the dining room played an important role at Le Parpaing qui Flotte: Jean-Régis and Farah met their chef when buying the instrument at their friend’s house After honing his chops at Longchamp Palace the young chef has developed a loyal following “He’s the one who made this place,” Farah humbly shares explaining how Jérémy’s “very technical” style and desire to do things “incredibly well” infuses each dish with delicious gravity we adore the succulent ribs confit glazed with a soy caramel – a Jérémy specialty – atop Chinese coleslaw flecked with peanuts you might also find seared (snacké) octopus and Parmesan risotto in a squid ink broth or a bright Thai salad there’s always a vegetarian option – a rarity in France Parpaing is one of the few French restaurants in the city where eating alone isn’t awkward – which we discovered one solo lunch spied our perch and joked that we “stole his seat.” It led to a friendly conversation rather than both of us retreating to our phones the tapas menu – a new one each season – includes shareable plates like polenta fries and fried calamari with Sriracha mayo and heartier options like fettuccini with beef cheeks The food is such a draw here that Jean-Régis and Farah made Jérémy a partner to ensure he’d stick around Le Parpaing qui Flotte is also famous for its handcrafted cocktails cucumber and basil mix – imagine a Provençal Pimm’s Cup From fruit syrups and lemonade to rhum arrangé (infused rums from Île de Réunion) A highlight includes the house-made ginger beer for Moscow Mule fans The bar is helmed by another happy accident who coincidentally shares her skills behind the bar tattooed bartender brings cosmopolitan flair – and the fun of ordering in English they recently launched petit dejeuner – including oeufs brouillé (scrambled eggs) – to fill the quartier’s breakfast void a much-lauded Italian pizza and pasta joint around the corner While they are honest about the enormous amount of work it takes to run a restaurant Jean-Régis and Farah keep a sense of humor to get through the tough times This playfulness is the root of the restaurant’s name the joke became a cinder bock (parpaing) that floated (qui flotte) a fitting foreshadowing of their fine cocktails It’s hard not to smile when they tell this story – and when you spend time at their bar AFRICA (BP) — Terror gripped Simon and his family Their neighborhood mutt had howled and barked incessantly the previous night at the front door of their one-room home Simon explained that the dog’s behavior signaled an impending death in their household While many may simply dismiss Simon as foolishly superstitious millions of people see the world as Simon does Vestiges of it can be found among many followers of the major religions Christians find it difficult to imagine a world filled with spirits and the specialists who interpret and manipulate these forces our perspectives strongly affect the way we share the Gospel with Simon and those like him Ignoring or disparaging his traditional religion views explanations and questions limits the effectiveness of our disciple making African Traditional Religion (ATR) has many similarities with other variations of traditional religion worldwide Consider three aspects of ATR followers when sharing the Gospel among them Personal wellbeing holds the highest value for ATR followers wealth and long life are ultimate concerns Their world has many spiritual dangers that prevent wellbeing so they seek protection and deliverance from spiritual forces they believe are problematic They focus on spiritual power as a way to achieve and maintain personal wellbeing they are manifestly concrete — not abstract — in their thinking Rather than philosophizing about personal problems ATR adherents address problems through such tangible means as amulets Pragmatism leads them to employ whatever means they can to solve personal problems They will say a prayer or “get saved” if they think it will provide another advantage in the fight for wellbeing but remain staunchly ATR in their belief and practice they are likely to show interest in the Gospel in hopes of enhancing their personal wellbeing The good news is that an ATR person easily engages in spiritual conversations He understands and views the world through spiritual eyes Here are five avenues for sharing the Gospel in ways that will profoundly touch their core beliefs: Connect wellbeing to God’s provision Listen for ATR practitioners to express their heartfelt needs and recount a biblical story of how God met a similar need you might tell the story of God’s provision for Elijah and the widow of Zarephath share how God gave a son to Sarah after years of infertility tell how Jesus set free the Gerasene demoniac But be careful not to make promises that the same will occur for them share the Gospel message and pray with them Sin is considered an act that breaks relationships in the seen or unseen world the ATR follower needs to see the double side of sin — that sin is not merely an act but also one’s nature Help adherents understand that obedience to God’s commandments is insufficient to remedy one’s sin nature Emphasize the fact that Adam and Eve rejected God’s law That curse passed from generation to generation generational curses are broken by sacrifice Jesus is the sacrifice who breaks humanity’s (generational) curse and enslavement to Satan Present salvation as a new relationship made possible by God’s grace ATR views salvation primarily as physical wellbeing We can correct the ATR view by tracing the salvation story from the Fall to the Resurrection Two elements deserve much attention: the sin nature and God’s provision in Christ we lead adherents to rely on what God did in Christ rather than thinking he can manipulate God for physical blessings Convey redemption and deliverance from the powers of evil by using the images of Passover Other possibilities include analogies of slaves redeemed from the auction block and estranged parties who are now reconciled Reemphasize that Christ alone removes the curse from humanity highlight the victory of the cross over evil powers Use biblical stories of deliverance that portray persons freed from spiritual powers Examples from the ministry of Jesus include the woman bent over for 18 years by a spirit and the demonized daughter of the Canaanite woman Share concrete examples of how Christ delivers and protects His own from evil spirits The ATR follower holds a worldview that has commonalities with the biblical worldview who will transform his worldview and provide him power to live in the midst of his spiritual battles You can read this story and learn more about the International Mission Board on their website at imb.org Randy and Kathy Arnett serve in Africa as International Mission Board theological education strategists © 2025 Southern Baptist Convention. Site by Mere Minyuan Plaza is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tianjin The five parallel avenues are named Machang the area is regarded as the most complete collection of foreign-style architecture in Tianjin Many of the villas in the area are cultural heritage sites and you will find former residences of many well-known figures such as politician Xu Shichang (1855-1939) former US president Herbert Hoover (1874-1964) Wudadao District is home to more than 2,000 garden-style houses including over 230 villas in a beautiful cluster of different architectural styles that include Renaissance Many of the area’s buildings and villas were built between the 1920s and 1930s And at the entrance of these constructions you can scan a QR code and learn their story Visitors can even take a horse ride outside Minyuan Plaza for a quick tour if they are pushed for time The Minyuan Plaza is stunning at first sight It was rebuilt in 2012 on a stadium site originally designed by former British Olympian Eric Liddell some 90 years ago it serves as a comprehensive public facility equipped with a running track seating areas and multiple business outlets The plaza has become a popular destination for tourists and locals You may be surprised at the number of food stands nearby A teddy-themed Lawson convenience store is also located inside the plaza It can be accessed from both inside the plaza and from Dali Avenue You can find some nice teddy bear statues and a London bus and taste several delights including seasonal delicacies like moon cakes Juyuan Garden is a Japanese wagashi boutique store offering komono costumes for guests for photography. Looking for a proper afternoon tea experience a Japanese wagashi boutique opposite the Minyuan Plaza Boasting Japanese-style decor both indoors and outdoors customers have to book ahead if they want to reserve an afternoon tea table such as a single set menu for 58 yuan (US$8.67) which will include a matcha drink and a wagashi (under 32 yuan) of your choice The single experience set menu (88 yuan) will provide customers with a kimono costume and accessories for your hair It’s a fun activity and provides plenty of photo opportunities You won’t be disappointed with the district Several bed and breakfast places and guesthouses in Wudadao District have borrowed a concept from overseas offering a cup of coffee with meals and refreshments for both walk-in and overnight guests Journey Coffee X Airbnb is hidden in a side alley just off Dali Avenue It offers set menus for lunch and a wide range of choices on drinks and desserts while its decor on the upper floor is in sharp contrast to the former although a yellow color is noticeable throughout the joint There are so many cafes either hidden in villas or standing quietly along the road Chongqing Avenue houses many cafes alongside some unique boutiques and vintage stores milch.t is a milk tea shop designed in a minimalist decor style The shop offers nice window seats with a street view a gentle autumn breeze could accompany your teatime experience Coffice is another quirky coffee shop that has been in existence for over 10 years while Rester Cafe & Pub offers good meals with a number of coffees and beverages You can either find some comfort food that reminds you of your home country or simply get a coffee to wake you up Chongqin Avenue in Wudadao District is home to a cluster of cafes Share Vintage is right next to the Rester Cafe & Pub where you may find some second-hand luxury pieces Moi Cafe and Coffee in-Crowd is now combined into one store It catches your attention with its unique outdoor seats — camping chairs and tables with shades You can pretend you’re on holiday and share a lazy moment with friends and family The bonus is that the barista makes good coffee There are several good choices here from espresso-based drinks to pour-over coffees the backlight of FAEMA E61 espresso machine will catch your eye Walking down the avenues and side roads of the Wudadao area will make you gasp The old and new buildings and villas are well preserved while there is a diverse amount of business outlets that are booming and growing Foodies must try the local street snacks such as mahua (fried dough twist) and jianbingguozi A visit to the Wudadao District is a wonderful experience that will live long in the memory 1.Comments will appear only after being approved by our team so it might be a while before your comment is posted 2.In accordance with the Regulations on Internet News and Information Services and other related laws and regulations of the People's Republic of China comments should not contain anything that is obscene Please [ Login ] to leave a comment The housing sector in Sint Maarten faces many large challenges: scarce land and buildings that remain in need of repair or retrofitting after the damages caused by Hurricane Irma in 2017. Access to safe and affordable housing is critical to Sint Maarten’s goal of building long-term resilience to natural disasters The devastation caused by Hurricane Irma in 2017 impacted most homes on the island efforts have been made to address the housing repair needs of the most vulnerable Sint Maarteners repairs to 167 homes have been made to increase resilience to future disasters under the Emergency Recovery Project Home reconstruction under this program will continue in 2021 An additional 182 roofs were repaired under the Red Cross Roof Repair Program which also trained 60 local craftsmen to construct hurricane-resistant roofs financed by the Government of the Netherlands out of the Recovery explores some of the market’s key constraints in greater detail and proposes some recommendations summarized below Large tracts of land are government-owned and under long-term leases Many parcels of privately-owned land have unresolved inheritance issues there is no enforced penalty or tax on vacant land which contributes to land speculation and provides limited incentives for the holders of un- or underdeveloped land to build and increase Sint Maarten’s limited housing stock Hilly terrain and hurricane exposure require large amounts of concrete most housing projects are relatively small and lack economies of scale and also skilled and unskilled labor for large projects contractors apply high profit margins to compensate for risks related to project financing The price point of the cheapest family houses for sale in Sint Maarten’s market exceeds US$200,000 Even these “affordable” houses are far too expensive for up to 60% of Sint Maarteners or informal income precludes any borrowing Many families’ options are limited to renting or saving money to buy a plot of land and incrementally building their home over many years There is limited data available on the rental market The smallest quality units in the “formal” rental market start at US$600 per month for a basic studio or 1-bedroom apartment People renting in informal settlements pay slightly less between US$300-600 per month for a small plot (with or without a house) depending on location and infrastructure connectivity locally referred to as ‘shantytowns,’ are growing in number and are home to many low-income households The Sint Maarten Housing Development Foundation (SMHDF) is the only social housing provider on the island It has not received regular public funding and is struggling to stay afloat One of SMHDF’s biggest constraints is the restriction on raising rents Rent levels are typically set upon initial lease signing and by law cannot be increased until the unit is turned over to a new resident rents have not been increased for 20 years rental prices are far out of line with even the lower end of the market and as such there are no funds for maintenance tenants often choose to stay for extended periods of time due to the limited alternatives available in the housing market the wait list has increased from 1,500 to 9,000 since Hurricane Irma a situation exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic The study recommends five avenues to improve Sint Maarten’s housing market: To fully realize its role as the engine for social housing development in Sint Maarten including financial and professional resources to set itself back onto sustainable footing the government could incentivize the private sector to invest in more affordable options Developers on Sint Maarten generally focus on the luxury housing segment despite the great demand for affordable housing Incentives such as expediting permitting processes making land prices more favorable for constructing affordable housing and abating turnover tax for low-cost units could contribute to further development of affordable housing In conjunction with a suite of policy and regulatory improvements activation of the Mortgage Guarantee Fund could help enable modest-income households to access a mortgage loan have established rental voucher programs to temporarily help low-income households pay the rent on private market-rate units Such a program could be established in Sint Maarten as well Chile’s program targets moderate-income young families and offers a flat-rate incentives to formalize the rental market could be made such as a grant program that could be offered to small-scale landlords to bring their units up to resilient building standards in exchange for registering their properties Formal rental contracts protect both landlords and tenants A variety of tools can be developed to help low-income households improve their homes and render them less vulnerable The government could introduce subsidies for low-income households to improve their living conditions and the resilience of their homes to natural disasters the upgrading of shantytowns could be supported and stimulated by bringing adequate services and improved housing to those who are most vulnerable More effective land policies need to be developed An inventory of public and private lands needs to be conducted land rents need to be updated and collected Environment & Infrastructure (VROMI) requires greater technical capacity to do so which oversees 3,000 land parcels under long-term leases Speed and efficiency in the building permitting process could be significantly improved through digitization as well as additional expertise to analyze it could inform the preparation of an effective and dynamic housing strategy for the country Sint Maarten would benefit from a formal mechanism for community consultation and participation regarding housing issues Such mechanisms are needed to keep the community informed and involved in important decisions as well as to sensitize people to key topics such as the benefits of resilient construction methods To learn more about the Sint Maarten Rapid Housing Sector Assessment and its recommendations, download the entire report here. STAY CURRENT WITH OUR LATEST DATA & INSIGHTS Jean-Pierre Lescourret / Lonely Planet Images / Getty Images extensive coastline and friendly character Marseille has all the ingredients for prime picnicking Winter temperatures hover in the 50s and 60s while summer’s late sunsets let daylight linger until 10 p.m Marseille’s 26 miles of coastline are peppered with rocky coves sandy beaches and hidden nooks where you can spread out your picnic blanket alongside the turquoise Mediterranean Some of the city’s best picnicking spots are beside monuments that serve up sweeping views – like the grassy knoll at the Palais du Pharo or the craggy garden at the Bonne Mère a mix of Provençal classics and multicultural bites are on the menu where to provision and our prime spots for your al fresco meal Between La Plaine and Cours Julien, the Rue Saint-Michel stuffs a smorgasbord of epicurean shops onto a 250-yard street. At the Lebanese-Armenian épicerie Exosud all the dips are made in-house – like the fabulous fig and olive tapenade caviar d’aubergine (eggplant dip) and tzatziki Cheese lovers will be tempted by mild manouri or fragrant chinklich while the basterma (paprika and fenugreek air-cured beef) and soujouk (spiced dried sausage) are a must for charcuterie fans One of the friendly brothers who own the shop will serve you from the seafaring salad bar which normally includes anchovy-wrapped olives octopus salad and calamari marinated in piment d’Espelette whose sourdough (levain) baguettes and loaves and pain au noix (walnut bread) have earned the boulangerie a loyal following They even stock gluten-free bread some days Vin Sobre also stocks a selection of snacks including the Marseille/Martigues specialty poutargue veggies and goods at the Cours Julien Farmers Market AOC local goat cheese that can be enjoyed savory – drizzled with olive oil – or sweet – topped with honey or jam the Mas de Granier farm sells jars of pesto cumin-scented chickpeas and other delights for dipping The market runs rain or shine year-round from 7 a.m Nicknamed the “belly of Marseille,” Noailles teems with takeout options. In the shadow of the former Gare du Noailles, Au Grand Saint-Antoine has fixings for a gourmet picnic the filet mignon (dried pork tenderloin) and the magret de canard (salted smoked and dried duck breast swaddled in fat) the brandade (whipped salt cod) is delicious when slathered on bread – especially with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt Everything is made in-house by this father-and-son charcutier anchovy and olive jam) for a Mediterranean feast order one of their filling focaccia sandwiches Thanks to the city’s large Tunisian community refreshing lemonade made with whole lemons Our favorite is across the street at Chez Yassine Le Cèdre is famous for their house-baked pita Grab a bag of pita still warm from the oven or order a falafel or kefta (bulgur meatballs) sandwich The Azzi brothers also make za’atar flatbread and sfeehas (savory stuffed pastries) For picnic provisions that double as great souvenirs, head across the street to Jiji La Palme D’Or The dynamic Tunisian’s mini-empire of Maghreb goods spreads across four storefronts Find straw paniers (baskets) in a range of sizes and colorful foutas This boucherie crafts the Sôccisse de Marseille a line of charcuterie flavored with Italian Be sure to pick up a bag of fresh potato chips – a regional specialty that beats processed chips any day Continue onto Boulevard Philippon to Cane Bière, a beer store and bar whose name winks at Marseille’s most famous road. The staff will help you choose from their 400-bottle stash. Our sip of summer is local microbrasserie Zoumai’s Gaby a thirst-quenching white wheat ale brewed with combava (Thai lime) zest Some of the city’s best picnicking spots are besides monuments that serve up sweeping views the boulangerie beloved for their artisanal loaves a leaf-shaped olive-oil bread from Provence square chocolate-chip cookies – the city’s best We like our picnics with a side of salt air so we head to the flat boulders at Anse de la Fausse Monnaie which are prime seating for watching cliff divers catapulting from the Corniche Kennedy Sometimes we continue west to spread out our picnic blanket at the Anse de Maldormé a pebbled beach that slopes into the sea – it’s perfect for a quick dip we can sometimes score a place on the Anse de la Capricieuse the itty-bitty cove reached by the staircase to the right of the yellow villa above Maldormé Other seaside spots can be found further west If you head up the Montée Maldorme staircase and then take a left on Rue Notre Dame des Grâces you’ll reach a tiny parking lot; from here take the footpath to the left and grab a seat on one of the long concrete benches or the jagged rocks below All these beaches are within walking distance of Eau à la Bouche, one of Marseille’s most popular pizzerias. In the summer, if we prefer to picnic with a pizza, we order our wood-fired pie in advance for pickup to avoid the wait. The easiest way to reach the coast is via the 83 bus or on a local Vélo bike which are even more enjoyable thanks to the recent expansion of the Corniche Kennedy’s bike lanes Many visit Marseille’s most popular monument Its prime perch on the metropolis’ highest hill affords a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the sea and city The Bonne Mère also happens to be home to one of the city’s best picnic spots: Jardin du Bois Sacré a vertical park that clings to the backside of the church’s limestone cliffs and can be reached by taking the footpath from the parking lot or climbing the stairs from the Rue du Bois Sacré but we prefer to make our own picnic spot by ambling off the path Napoleon built the Palais du Pharo for his wife so she could behold the Vieux-Port without intermingling with the lower-class dockworkers Though Napoleon died before they could live in it the majestic palace now hosts conferences – and Marseillais picnickers Some like to spread out on the expansive lawn besides the steel half-circle sculpture by famed artist Bernar Venet We like to convene near the Monument aux Héros et Victimes de la Mer the bronze statue dedicated to navy soldiers who perished at sea The incredible view is a live action postcard Marseille does have one picnic deterrent: the mistral the legendary gusts that can reach up to 60 mph So take note if the wind icon pops up on your weather app – it may be necessary to delay your picnic by a day or two So we asked our contributors to write about their favorite spots to eat outdoors as well as nearby shops to fill a picnic basket for Picnic Week 2020 Source: www.ghanaweb.com « Prev Next » Comments (0) Listen to Article Investments