Category: Travel

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Exploring Kansas City by Bus

Side view of unrecognizable young African American man in casual clothes and backpack using smartphone while standing on city street and waiting for bus

Hey everyone, Michael Gortenburg here!

One of the best ways to really see a city is through its public transit, and Kansas City has a bus system that makes exploring both convenient and affordable. Whether you’re commuting to work, heading out for a night downtown, or just discovering new neighborhoods, riding the bus gives you a front-row seat to everything KC has to offer.

Why Take the Bus in KC

Kansas City’s bus system covers a wide network, making it easy to move between districts without worrying about parking. Riding the bus is not only cost-effective but also a more sustainable way to get around the city. You’ll also find that it gives you a new perspective on familiar streets and neighborhoods when you see them from the bus window.

Key Routes to Know

Some of the most popular routes take you right through the heart of Kansas City. The Main MAX line is one of the most used, running from the River Market through Downtown, Crown Center, and the Plaza. Along this ride, you can hop off for shopping, restaurants, or a quick stop at cultural attractions like Union Station. Other routes connect neighborhoods like Westport, Midtown, and Brookside, giving you a chance to explore the city’s diverse character.

What to Expect on the Ride

KC buses are modern and accessible, with features like bike racks and free Wi-Fi on many routes. The ride itself is usually smooth and relaxed, making it easy to catch up on emails, read a book, or just enjoy the scenery. For those visiting, it’s also a great way to meet locals and get recommendations on places to go next.

Tips for Bus Travel in KC

Make sure to check the RideKC app or website for real-time updates on schedules and routes. Having exact fare or a bus pass ready makes boarding quicker, and planning your trip ahead of time ensures you’ll get where you want to go without unnecessary stress.

Discovering the City One Stop at a Time

Taking the bus is more than just getting from point A to point B. It’s an opportunity to slow down and notice parts of Kansas City you might otherwise miss. From the bustling energy of Downtown to the historic charm of the Plaza, each ride connects you to a new part of the city.

Exploring KC by bus is an easy and enjoyable way to get to know the city better. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, I encourage you to give it a try and see where the route takes you.

What’s your favorite bus line or KC neighborhood to explore? Share your ideas in the comments or connect with me on social!

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

Also, follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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Top Summer Destinations to Explore

Michael Gortenburg travel

Hey everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

Summer is the perfect season to explore new places and recharge before the busy months ahead. Over the years, I’ve visited some fantastic destinations that capture the spirit of summer travel. Whether you prefer beaches, cities, or mountains, these spots offer something for every traveler.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod is a classic summer getaway with charming coastal towns and beautiful sandy beaches. Spend your days biking scenic trails, browsing quaint shops, or enjoying fresh seafood by the water. The lighthouses and sunsets over the Atlantic add to its timeless appeal.

Napa Valley, California

For wine lovers, Napa Valley is a lush retreat during summer. Enjoy tastings at renowned wineries, dine on farm-to-table cuisine, or take a hot air balloon ride for spectacular views. It’s a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville blends arts, craft breweries, and outdoor activities. Summer here means hiking waterfalls, exploring mountain trails, and soaking up the city’s creative vibe.

Maui, Hawaii

Maui offers stunning beaches, waterfalls, and lush landscapes ideal for a tropical summer escape. From snorkeling with sea turtles to scenic drives like the Road to Hana, there is no shortage of memorable experiences.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago transforms in summer with lively lakefront parks, festivals, and rooftop bars. Catch a concert in Millennium Park, take a river architecture tour, or savor the city’s famous deep-dish pizza.

Tips for Summer Travel

Book early to secure your spot, pack lightweight clothing, and remember sunscreen. Balance active days with downtime to fully enjoy your trip and stay hydrated in the summer heat.

No matter your style, these destinations provide great summer experiences to enjoy and explore. I hope this list inspires your next adventure.

What are your favorite summer spots? Share your tips in the comments or connect with me on social!

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

Also, follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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My Favorite Sports Bars in Kansas City

Three men seated at a bar, intently watching a football game on the television screen in front of them.

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

When it comes to game day or just enjoying a great night out with fellow fans, KC sports bars are hard to beat. Whether you’re cheering for the Chiefs, Royals, or your favorite college team, these local gems offer the perfect mix of atmosphere, food, and drinks to elevate your experience. Here are my favorite sports bars in KC that you’ve got to check out:

Johnny’s Tavern

A Kansas City classic since 1953, Johnny’s Tavern is a top spot for catching the game with friends. With multiple locations in the KC area, it’s known for its relaxed vibe, extensive beer selection, and delicious food menu, especially its pizza and burgers. If you’re a die-hard sports fan or just looking for a fun place to hang out, Johnny’s has you covered.

The Blue Line

Located in the River Market District, The Blue Line is the only hockey-themed sports bar in KC. Decked out in memorabilia and offering an authentic hockey fan experience, it’s a haven for hockey enthusiasts and sports lovers alike. Their bar bites and cold brews make it the perfect spot to enjoy a game.

No Other Pub

Situated in the Power & Light District, No Other Pub is a go-to destination for soccer fans, particularly Sporting KC supporters. With big screens everywhere, interactive games like bowling and foosball, and an energetic crowd, this spot makes watching sports even more fun. Grab some tacos or wings while you soak in the high-energy atmosphere!

Chappell’s Restaurant & Sports Museum

Chappell’s is not just a sports bar, it’s also a shrine to sports history. Located in North Kansas City, this cozy bar is filled with sports memorabilia that will impress even the most seasoned sports fan. You can choose to watch the game or simply enjoy the museum-like ambiance, all while savoring their hearty meals and craft beers that never disappoint.

Lew’s Grill & Bar

Tucked in the heart of Waldo, Lew’s Grill & Bar is a neighborhood favorite. It’s a laid-back spot that’s perfect for a casual evening of drinks, snacks, and cheering for your team. Their daily specials and welcoming vibe make it a must-visit, especially during football season.

Kansas City is filled with amazing spots to watch sports, but these bars stand out for their unique vibes and top-notch offerings. They offer classic bar food as well as more elevated options, so there’s always something to satisfy every sports fan.

What are your go-to sports bars in KC? Let me know in the comments or connect with me on social media. I’d love to hear your favorites!

And if you’re looking for the perfect gift for the sports enthusiast in your life, check out my blog on the best gifts for any sports fan to get inspired.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

Also, follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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Best Places to Visit in Kansas City During Winter

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

Kansas City transforms into a magical destination during the winter months, offering a mix of cozy indoor attractions and festive outdoor activities. If you’re looking for the best places to visit in the city during the cold season, these spots showcase the vibrancy and charm of KC.

Crown Center Ice Terrace

The Crown Center Ice Terrace is a winter staple for Kansas City residents and visitors alike. This outdoor ice rink offers a picturesque setting to glide under the crisp winter sky, surrounded by the sparkling city skyline. After enjoying some time on the ice, warm up with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee from the nearby cafes.

Country Club Plaza

Country Club Plaza offers a variety of local boutiques and dining options to round out your visit. Known for its Spanish-inspired architecture and dazzling holiday lights, the Plaza becomes even more enchanting during the colder months. Take advantage of post-holiday sales and seasonal promotions at the Plaza’s array of shops. Many stores feature discounts on winter apparel, home goods, and accessories, making it an ideal time to refresh your wardrobe or find souvenirs.

West Bottoms district

The West Bottoms district offers a truly distinctive winter shopping experience, perfect for those seeking one-of-a-kind treasures. Its historic warehouses, now home to vintage stores and antique shops, create a charming and nostalgic atmosphere. Each store is packed with unique finds, including furniture, collectibles, décor, and more, making it a favorite spot for both serious antique hunters and casual shoppers. Many shops serve warm drinks, adding a cozy touch to your visit.

The Campground

The Campground is a hidden gem in the Stockyards District that offers a cozy, rustic atmosphere perfect for winter evenings. This combined bar and eatery has a cabin-like vibe with a modern twist, featuring warm lighting, wood accents, and a welcoming fireplace. Known for its inventive cocktails and a menu that celebrates locally sourced ingredients, it’s an ideal spot for an intimate night out. Try one of its seasonal cocktails or hearty dishes that perfectly complement the chilly weather.

Green Lady Lounge

For those who love live music and a laid-back vibe, the Green Lady Lounge is a fantastic option. This classic jazz club, with its dim lighting and vintage decor, creates a cozy and intimate setting perfect for unwinding during the winter months. The comfortable seating and excellent drink menu make it an inviting space for guests to enjoy Kansas City’s rich jazz heritage in style.

Explore more live music venues in KC in this blog!

Winter in Kansas City is filled with endless opportunities to explore and enjoy the season. From unique attractions to cozy spots, each destination offers something memorable to make your winter truly special. To discover even more ways to embrace the season, don’t miss my blog on Favorite Winter Activities in Kansas City. There’s always something new and exciting to experience during the winter in KC!

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

Also, follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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The Best Bags for Traveling

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

Knowing which bag to use when traveling is essential. No one wants to be stuck carrying their items around all day, but you also don’t want to overcompensate with something bulky that could get in your way. So here are my recommendations for bags to fit each possible travel situation: 

For Day Travel: Fanny Pack

It’s a staple for a reason. It’s compact and convenient, having enough space for a phone, cash, wallet, and other necessities. These bags are handy when walking around a city for the day or visiting different tourist attractions. It keeps all your essentials in close reach and will take the weight off your shoulders.

For Hiking: Sports Backpack

If you’re planning a hiking trip, a good outdoor pack is essential to your preparation. Depending on the length of your hike, you’ll want a bag with enough room to support essentials like water and food. However, it’s also important to keep weight in mind. You don’t want a bag weighing on your back while hiking.

For Cross Country Road Trips: Duffel Bag

Packing for a cross-country road trip can be tricky. Depending on how many people will be in the car with you, you don’t want to pack too much and be squished together for hours. But you also don’t want to lack any other essentials you’ll need during your trek. I’ve found that a decently sized duffel bag provides enough room to pack what you need and get to it with ease in a cramped car.  

For International Exploring: Large Suitcase

International travel brings about a whole different set of items necessary for you to bring. I highly recommend investing in a suitcase large enough to cover your time abroad. Some carry-on bags provide a lot of room for you to pack heavy, but if you’re willing to check a bag, you may as well go all the way. Pack smart, but ensure you’ve covered all the bases for more extended trips abroad that contain everything you’ll need. If you want to know more about how to prepare for a long-haul flight, check out my blog here.

Knowing which bag will be the most helpful on your trips is essential whether you’re packing heavy or light. Think about what to prioritize and pack accordingly!

If you’d like to hear more tips about traveling, check out my blog here. Or, you can read my blog on how to save money while traveling.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing. 

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Best Items for the Summer

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

It’s finally summer, and if it’s anything like the past few weeks, the heat will continue to be scorching. The high temperatures can stop you from enjoying the outdoors, but there are plenty of ways to beat the heat and make the most of your summer. I want to share some of the best items for summer that will keep you cool while you soak in the sunshine.

Portable Fan

Unless you’re planted on a beach, you may lack a breeze to help break the heat. A small, portable fan can bring the breeze to you and keep you cool wherever you are. I like to have it on hand when I know I’ll be sitting in the same spot outside for a long time. An outdoor concert or show becomes all the more tolerable in the heat when you’ve got this in your back pocket.

Compact Speaker

Whether you’re spending time soaking up the sun in the yard or hosting a barbecue for the neighborhood, a speaker is sure to liven things up. I recommend a more compact model so you can bring it with you on any trips to the park or beach. 

Reusable Water Bottle

Dehydration is no joke, and if you plan to spend any time in the sun, you should plan to stay hydrated. A reusable water bottle you can bring on the go will make it easy to drink and refill on your journey.

A Sun Hat

The best way to protect yourself from the sun is coverage. Any kind of hat, whether it’s a baseball cap to support your favorite team or a wide-brimmed hat, will protect your scalp and face from burning and help keep you cool while you’re outside. These seasonal hats come with all sorts of brim sizes, so you can pick how much coverage you want.

Picnic Blanket

If you’re anything like me, you love spending time outdoors during summertime. But sometimes places to sit, especially parks on a busy day, can be hard to come by. I suggest keeping a picnic blanket on hand for any park, beach, or concert outings. I prefer ones with an easy-to-clean, waterproof underside, so I don’t have to worry about any mess.

Summer is a beautiful season with plenty of great outdoor activities to explore, but higher temperatures can sometimes interrupt plans. I hope some of these items will help you beat the heat and enjoy your summer!

If you’d like to see some other seasonal travel tips from me, check out my blog here.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

Also, follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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My Favorite National Parks

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

As an avid traveler, I always appreciate a great view. There are so many natural wonders across the globe for us to visit, and I’m lucky to have witnessed some beautiful ones. Here are some of my favorite national parks that I’ve seen in the U.S.: 

Yellowstone National Park 

Yellowstone was the United States’ first national park, and 150 years later, it continues to bring in tourists for its geothermal features and wildlife. Just make sure you keep to the designated trails! The wildlife here is beautiful to view from afar but dangerous up close. 

Grand Canyon 

The Grand Canyon is famous for a reason. The grand scope of the features is almost overwhelming, with years of running water forming stunning rock faces. If there’s any national park in the U.S. on this list you should visit at least once, it’s this one. 

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail 

This historic commemoration of the Lewis and Clark Expedition spans 4,900 miles of the United States. My home state of Missouri is one of the 16 states it crosses through. On the trail, visitors get to follow the trail’s legendary history. 

Glacier Bay National Park 

The state of Alaska has many natural wonders to observe. At Glacier Bay National Park, visitors get an upfront look at stunning glaciers that make them forget they’re in the coldest state in the U.S. This park contains 3.3 million acres of mountain, beautiful glaciers, deep fjords, and a temperate rainforest, so you’ll be sure to find something that captures your attention. 

Mammoth Cave National Park 

Mammoth Cave is the world’s longest-known cave system and home to a diverse group of plant and animal life. I highly recommend booking a guided cave tour when visiting. The park also has different tours to fit different fitness levels and accessibility so anyone can join in. 

Everglades National Park 

Florida’s beaches often hog most tourists’ attention, but there’s another natural wonder for outdoor lovers to enjoy. The Everglades National Park provides an up-close look at the Everglades’ unique flora and fauna through winding trails and guided tours. 

Americans have many natural wonders just a car ride away, with different climates and wildlife to suit your travel preferences. I highly encourage taking the time to plan out a trip to witness one of these for yourself. 

If you want to see other beautiful destinations I’ve visited in the U.S., check out my blog here. 

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing. 

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Is McLaren Diluting its Hypercar Brand?

A Sunny day on a highway with a 2019 McLaren GT Super Car

Hello everyone! Michael Gortenburg here.

I have always had a passion for cars. As I mentioned in my previous blog, I love iconic cars from the 1950s and the feel of a vehicle that time has made a recognizable classic. I’ve always been fascinated by the freedom and excitement you can only get from an automobile. Whenever I see an exotic or a vintage car, it’s because something about that car’s soul speaks to me. Each car provides a unique experience, like an old memory that I can recall instantly.

Recently, I’ve been paying attention to the ever-competitive world of hypercars. Not because I plan to buy one, definitely not, but because I enjoy watching the competition unfold among the five or six manufacturers who are competing for the wallets of a very limited and selective group of people. There are plenty of wealthy people in the world, but not many who are willing to pay over $1 million for a method of transportation.

These are just my thoughts on the latest and greatest in the car world and I hope you enjoy it! Let’s start off with a brand that everyone is paying attention to right now: McLaren.

McLaren has been putting out incredible cars for years, and many people consider the McLaren F1 to be the greatest automobile ever built. It seems like more and more people are agreeing with that sentiment, as they are currently fetching somewhere in the neighborhood of $20 million at auction. Is a car ever worth $20 million? I guess it is if there is nothing else quite like it on the road.

The F1 is unique in that it has no fancy electronics, no tricks. It is a pure machine made to go fast and nothing else. The driver’s seat is centered in the middle of the car, with two passenger seats on either side. They say the feeling of driving one is like piloting a fighter jet.

While very few people will get to experience the McLaren F1 themselves, there are plenty of other McLaren models that will give you a similar sensation. We’ll leave out the Mercedes SLR because that was really more of a GT car, not a pure performance machine, in my book. Besides, there are plenty of others to choose from.

Right now, the McLaren lineup consists of twelve different models, which is an astronomical number for a hypercar manufacturer, to be honest. They include the 620R, the 540C, the 570C, the 570S and the GT, the 600LT/600LT Spider, the McLaren GT, the 720S and the 765, the Senna, the Elva, the Speedtail, the Artura, and a few other versions of these for racetrack use.

Is that too many? A lot of people are saying that, yes, McLaren is diluting itself by making so many variations. What is special about a McLaren if you have so many different versions of them floating around, right? Well, I happen to disagree.

What I like so much about McLaren is that it is not as obsessed with status as some of the other brands that are out there. To that end, the cars tend to be a bit less flashy (with some definite exceptions) and less recognizable than say a Ferrari or a Lamborghini. The people who buy McLarens are more interested in an incredible driving experience than rolling up to a fancy restaurant and attracting attention.

That’s why it makes sense for the company to have so many models. They are giving drivers the ability to select exactly what suits them. They can provide an extreme hypercar like the Senna, or a fun weekend driver like the 540C. You can get what you want without being labeled as a certain type of person. That makes sense coming from a company with a strong racing tradition that takes itself extremely seriously.

Now, I don’t own a McLaren myself, nor am I particularly interested in acquiring one. But I do respect what they are doing. In time, I believe that other manufacturers will start to democratize the hypercar experience by creating high-performance electric machines at low cost. These would be cars for people who are less interested in status than experiencing the thrill of an open road. You can definitely count me among them.

That’s all for now. Stay tuned for more coming soon!

– Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City Missouri

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Travel Notes: Croatia

Hello fellow travelers!

Today, I wanted to share my take on one of the many places that I’ve been fortunate to visit within the last couple of years: Croatia. It is a place that many people in the United States might not know much about – as it doesn’t get a lot of attention in movies, TV shows or other forms of media. Yet, it is a place that I consider to be one of the best destinations for those who like to explore.

When most Americans think of traveling to Europe, they think of the usual tourist destinations like London, Paris, Rome, and Berlin. And while these typical locations are certainly worthy of praise, frequent travelers might want to consider trying something new and venturing further east to Croatia.

Undiscovered Gem

With a population of only four million, Croatia is located in Southeastern Europe, far from the typical European tourist destinations, in an area known as the Balkan States. This “out of the way” placement has allowed Croatia to quietly develop into a unique destination of its own, without being overrun with tourists.

The country is set along the Adriatic Sea (a part of the Mediterranean) and has many charming towns and natural landscapes. Whether you’re looking to hike lush forests and trails that provide you with unmatched views, or if you would rather be sitting seaside basking in the sun – there’s something for everyone.

Coastal Towns

As opposed to a sprawling metropolis like Paris, Croatia’s biggest draws are its relatively small coastal towns. Perhaps the most popular of these is Split – a beautiful seaside city with a large port where cruises will often stop for a day. Split, like many places in Eastern Europe, has a sort of “old world” feel to it. The town is surrounded by white stone walls, and the orange tiled roofing of almost all of its buildings give the area a distinct Mediterranean quality.

Other worthwhile places to check out if you’re in the area include: Rovinj, Zadar, and Rab. You’ll notice that these types of towns have a consistent feel to them; however, they are uniquely Croatian.

I would recommend enjoying these towns during the sunny and breezy summer months. Croatia stays fairly sunny year-round – but it can get a little chilly during the winter. However, Kansas City gets far colder!

Living the Best Life

As I mentioned before, there is a sort of old-world appeal to Croatia and when you visit, you will learn to appreciate its slower paced lifestyle. Almost all of the areas I visited are very walkable or accessible by mass transportation, so traffic is not really an issue. There weren’t any booming car stereos, fast food chains or a Super Walmart.

Many Croatians enjoy a calmer, more peaceful approach to life. Many work in artisanal shops, walk from place to place and have a more modest view of things than many of us here at home.

As for food, Croatian cuisine is delicious. Their seafood is incredibly good, and their desserts are even better. I enjoyed several different types of desert pastries, cakes and other sweets. Amazingly, Croatians remain very healthy despite all of the tempting food – it must be the frequent walking.

*****

Ultimately, I rank Croatia as one of my favorite places to visit. It is such a unique experience for anyone coming from the United States, and its distinct culture allow Croatia to remain a place that is truly its own. It is certainly worth a visit from any traveler.

~ Michael Gortenburg Kansas City, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG)

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Travel Notes: Israel

Hello friends!

Michael Gortenburg here and greetings from Kansas City!

As you may have guessed from some of my earlier posts, I am an avid traveler. I always take advantage of any chance that I can to get away and experience another place or culture. I think it is good for the soul, and it provides fun and eye-opening experiences.

Today, I wanted to share some of what I’ve learned in my travels to the ancient land of Israel – a place that I find to be as beautiful as it is fascinating, and a place that I hold dear in my heart. To someone who has never been there, maybe this post will inspire you to see it for yourself!

The Foundation of History

Israel is a land that is rich in history, and it is apparent from the moment you set foot on its ancient city streets and its gorgeous countryside. Although the current state of Israel was not established until 1948, the land has been settled since the earliest days of humankind and has served as the center of history’s most significant moments.

Every building seems to tell a story and the country is filled with historic sites to visit. History buffs are sure to enjoy this aspect of Israel. One of my personal favorites is the city of Jaffa – the oldest port city in the world. It is a charming coastal city with its own distinct architecture style and beautiful beige buildings that evoke its Mediterranean feel.

Of course, if history is what you’re looking for, it is hard to find a more significant city in Israel – perhaps the world – than Jerusalem.

Jerusalem is a central holy site for some of the world’s major religions and draws millions of visitors from across the world for its rich historical and cultural offerings.

If you find yourself in Jerusalem, there are plenty of historic places to visit: The Wailing Wall, the Temple Mount, the Tower of David and more. One could spend days in this city alone – but the nation of Israel offers so much more!

International Destinations

Breathtaking view from Haifa

Outside of the historical sites of Israel – there are also plenty of places visitors should be sure to check out once they visit. The city of Haifa comes to mind, with its impeccably manicured terraces and world-famous Baha’i Gardens. Haifa is built along a hillside so visitors in the gardens are treated with breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the rest of the city below, complete with a central staircase that leads wanderers down to the shore. Haifa is easily one of the most scenic and well-planned cities that I’ve been lucky to come across in my travels.

Another international destination is the city of Tel Aviv. Tel Aviv could be compared to Miami for its warm temperature and similar design of seaside towers, glistening in the sun as beachgoers relax on its sandy shores.

Tel Aviv is more of a secular city – drawing millions of tourists every year to its party and cultural scene. There are many clubs, beachfront restaurants and bars for partiers of any kind. But if you’re more of a relaxed type, you could also visit its many museums, gardens and markets. A personal favorite of mine would be the Tel Aviv Museum of Art.

And while Tel Aviv is a huge draw for fun, it is also an economic powerhouse for Israel and a technology hub for the world. Tel Aviv has its own “Silicon Valley” of sorts and is home to some of the most advanced technology companies in the world, like RAD. It also houses pharmaceutical giants like Teva and has a vibrant startup scene. Many groundbreaking companies focused on AI/Machine Learning and software are based in Tel Aviv and its surrounding areas.

A Journey You’ll Remember

Whether you’re interested in making a trip for its religious or historical significance, or whether you’re more curious about its party and vacation scene – Israel has a lot to offer. It is one of the few countries in the region that is readily available for tourists to enjoy and you will never run out of things to see and do.

I would highly recommend anyone thinking of going to take the opportunity and visit Israel. It is certainly a place like no other and a memory that you will never forget.

Happy travels!

~ Michael Gortenburg Kansas City, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG)