[{"content":"","permalink":"/blog/","section":"blog","summary":"","title":"Blog"},{"content":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nIn the ever-evolving world of travel, savvy travelers are constantly seeking ways to maximize their experiences while minimizing costs and complications. You are probably familiar with one-way and round-trip plane tickets. You pick a destination, buy a ticket and off you go. That is the traditional way to travel, but what if you are more adventurous and want to see more for your money? Well, you are in luck! There is something known as “Nested Itineraries” or “Nested Tickets”. This technique can open up a world of opportunities, offering flexibility and savings that traditional ticketing methods often lack.\nEver dreamt of exploring Paris, then hopping over to Rome, and maybe even catching a sunset in Santorini – all on one incredible trip? What if I told you that not only is this dream achievable, but it can also be a game-changer for your travel budget?\nWelcome to the world of nested itineraries! Forget the old “one destination, one ticket” mentality. By strategically planning your trip to include multiple stops, you can unlock significant savings on airfare and experience so much more of the world.\nWhat Exactly is a Nested Itinerary? “Nested itineraries” refer to a strategy where you book multiple flights or trips in a way that they overlap or are interwoven, often to save money or maximize travel opportunities. Instead of simply booking a single round-trip, you create a more complex travel plan.\nHere’s a breakdown of what nested itineraries generally involve:\nOverlapping Bookings: The core idea is that one flight booking is “nested” within another. This means the dates of one trip might fall entirely or partially within the travel dates of another, larger trip. Multi-City Travel: This is a common form of nesting. Instead of booking separate round-trip tickets for each city you want to visit, you book all your flight segments on a single multi-city ticket (e.g., New York to London, London to Rome, Rome back to New York). This can often be cheaper than buying three individual round-trip tickets. Open-Jaw Flights: This is where you fly into one city and out of a different city. For example, you might fly from Los Angeles to London, travel overland or by a separate low-cost flight to Paris, and then fly from Paris back to Los Angeles. This saves you from having to backtrack to your arrival city. Stopovers: A stopover is a planned layover in an intermediate city that lasts for more than 24 hours (for international flights) or 4 hours (for domestic flights). Airlines sometimes allow free or low-cost stopovers in their hub cities, giving you the chance to explore an extra destination without buying a separate ticket. Strategic Booking to Circumvent Fare Rules (with caution): Back-to-back ticketing: This historically involved booking two round-trip tickets that overlapped to meet “Saturday night stay” requirements, which often made leisure fares cheaper. While less common now due to changes in fare structures, it’s an example of nesting to get around fare rules. Hidden-city ticketing (Skiplagging): This is booking a flight with a layover in your actual desired destination, and then simply disembarking at the layover city and “throwing away” the rest of the ticket. This is done when the overall flight to a further destination is cheaper than a direct flight to the layover city. However, airlines generally prohibit this practice and can impose penalties like canceling future flights or revoking frequent flyer miles if they detect it. My Adventures in Nested Itineraries Over the years, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to craft some truly epic nested itineraries, proving just how much you can see and save. Here is a list of some of my favorite nested itineraries from different continents:\nThe Around the World Itinerary: We kicked things off in Los Angeles, flying to Dubai for a fascinating three-day stop. From there, it was a quick hop to the Maldives for four days of pure paradise. Our adventure then took us to New Delhi for a six-day deep dive into India’s vibrant culture and visiting the majestic Taj Mahal in Agra by train and car, followed by a four-day exploration of Kathmandu, nestled in the Himalayas. Finally, we squeezed in a full day in bustling Tokyo before catching our flight directly back to Los Angeles. This trip wasn’t just a vacation; it was literally a journey traversing continents, all made possible by smart nesting!\nThe South America Itinerary: Another incredible nested itinerary we enjoyed was our South American adventure. We flew from Los Angeles to Santiago, spending three days exploring Chile’s vibrant capital. Next, we took a flight to the mystical Easter Island for three unforgettable days among the Moai statues. From there, it was off to Chilean Patagonia for a four-day immersion in its breathtaking landscapes. To add to the adventure, we traveled by bus across the border to Argentinian Patagonia for three more days of exploring. Our journey culminated with a flight from El Calafate to Buenos Aires, where we spent four days soaking in the city’s lively atmosphere, before flying back home to Los Angeles. It was an amazing way to experience diverse cultures and stunning natural beauty all in one seamless trip!\nThe Asian Adventure Itinerary: A few years ago, I orchestrated an incredible Southeast Asian and Sri Lankan exploration. We began by flying from Los Angeles to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. From there, I drove to Siem Reap, spending four days marveling at the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat. Our journey then took us to Colombo, Sri Lanka, for a three-day visit, followed by a flight to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where we enjoyed three vibrant days. A short hop brought us to Singapore for another three days of city exploration and lounging by the world-famous Marina Bay Sands Resort swimming pool. Finally, we flew back to Phnom Penh for a quick two-day revisit before heading home to Los Angeles. It was an intricate, yet deeply rewarding, way to experience so many distinct cultures and landscapes within a single trip!\nThe Scandinavian \u0026 Easter Europe Itinerary: Believe it or not, my very first foray into nested itineraries was an ambitious Nordic and Eastern European adventure. I started by flying from Los Angeles to Iceland, making the most of a 24-hour stopover to glimpse its unique landscapes. Then it was off to Bergen, Norway, for four days, followed by a two-day stay in Oslo. From there, I enjoyed scenic train rides, first to Stockholm, Sweden, for two days, and then onward to Malmö for a four-day visit, which included a day trip by train to explore Copenhagen, Denmark. My journey then took me southeast with a flight to Sofia, Bulgaria, before ultimately flying back home to Los Angeles. It was an eye-opening first experience that truly demonstrated the potential of nesting to see more of the world!\nWhy people use nested itineraries: Cost Savings: This is the primary driver. By combining flights, leveraging hub cities, or strategically using stopovers, travelers can often find significantly cheaper overall airfare than by booking individual round-trip tickets. Maximizing Travel: It allows you to see more destinations within a single trip, making the most of your travel time and often the long-haul flights. Flexibility: While seemingly more complex, it can offer more flexibility in terms of how you structure your journey and which cities you visit. Leveraging Points and Miles: Frequent flyers often use nested itineraries to maximize the value of their points and miles, especially when taking advantage of alliance networks and stopover rules. It’s important to note that while nested itineraries can be highly beneficial, they require careful planning and understanding of airline rules. Booking separate tickets, for instance, means you’re on your own if a delay on one flight causes you to miss a connection on another, unlinked ticket. Also beware, if you booked one continuous ticket for the entire itinerary, because if you miss one flight…you will most likely lose the rest of your booked tickets. That happened to us, and it was very unpleasant! Phew!\nHow Does This Save You Money? The magic of nested itineraries lies in a few key areas:\nAvoiding Redundant Round-Trips: Booking multiple round-trip flights can be incredibly expensive. By combining your travel into one fluid itinerary, you often pay less per segment. Leveraging Hub Cities: Airlines often offer competitive fares to major hub cities. By routing through a hub and adding a connecting flight or stopover, you can sometimes snag cheaper overall tickets than flying direct to a less popular destination. Capitalizing on Airline Alliances: If you stick to airlines within the same alliance (Star Alliance, SkyTeam, Oneworld), you can often piece together complex itineraries more seamlessly and sometimes even earn more rewards. Minimizing Backtracking: Smartly planned nested itineraries reduce or eliminate the need to fly back and forth over the same ground, saving both time and money. Beyond Savings: The Added Perks! The financial benefits are just the beginning. Nested itineraries also offer:\nMore Exploration: Obviously! You get to tick off multiple dream destinations in one go, maximizing your travel time. Reduced Travel Fatigue: By breaking up long journeys with exciting stopovers, you can combat jet lag and arrive at your next destination refreshed. Unique Experiences: Imagine a long layover in Iceland on your way to Europe, allowing you to explore its otherworldly landscapes before continuing your journey. These unexpected detours can be some of the most memorable parts of your trip! Increased Flexibility: While you’ll need to plan carefully, nested itineraries can offer a surprising amount of flexibility in terms of how you structure your journey. clone tag: -2757973148845498982\nReady to Start Nesting Your Next Adventure? Here are some tips to get you started:\nBe Flexible with Dates: Even a day or two difference can significantly impact airfare. Use Multi-City Search Tools: Most major flight search engines (Google Flights, Skyscanner, Kayak) have excellent multi-city or “add flight” options. Consider “Hidden City” Ticketing (with caution!): This involves booking a flight with a layover in your desired destination and then simply not taking the final leg. However, be aware this can be against airline terms and conditions and may result in penalties or loss of frequent flyer miles. Research Open-Jaw Possibilities: Sometimes flying into one city and out of another offers better deals than a traditional round-trip. Think About Different Modes of Transport: Between cities, consider trains, buses, or even budget airlines to connect your dots. Don’t let the idea of complex planning deter you. With a little research and creativity, you can unlock a world of travel possibilities and significant savings.\nHave you ever used a nested itinerary to save on airfare? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below! Let’s inspire each other to travel smarter and see more of our incredible world!\n","permalink":"/blog/unlock-more-adventures-the-power-of-nested-itineraries-to-save-on-airfare/","section":"blog","summary":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nIn the ever-evolving world of travel, savvy travelers are constantly seeking ways to maximize their experiences while minimizing costs and complications.","title":"Unlock More Adventures: The Power of Nested Itineraries to Save on Airfare!"},{"content":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nGlacier Grey is a spectacular ice field located in Southern Patagonia close to Torres Del Paine National Park. Just a couple of hours from the picturesque town of Puerto Natales, Chile…Glacier Grey is a stunning sight of natural beauty.\nAfter crossing the suspension bridge and taking a short walk through the forest you are left speechless by the massive icebergs scattered around the shore of the Glacier Grey Lake. One way to see the glacier is by taking a boat tour. As you make your way towards the glacier, you are surrounded by the amazingly beautiful mountains of Torres Del Paine as well as a number of floating icebergs.\nMerino.tech base layers - Perfect for all weather conditions\nFinally, in front of Glacier Grey, you will be mesmerized by the colorful geography of the glacier…countless shades of blue, turquoise, grey and white will take your breath away.\nIt is a smaller glacier covering about 270 sq km, but its beauty is not to be underestimated!\nIf you are craving an immersive visual journey, check out my 360° videos of Glacier Grey on YouTube. Witness the grandeur of the glacier up close. Glacier Grey is a testament to the Earth’s natural wonders and experiencing it firsthand is an adventure you won’t forget.\nhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nTyHSAo4QoE\nGlacier Grey, Patagonia in 4K and 360°\n","permalink":"/blog/discover-glacier-grey-patagonia-a-4k-visual-adventure-in-360/","section":"blog","summary":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nGlacier Grey is a spectacular ice field located in Southern Patagonia close to Torres Del Paine National Park.","title":"Discover Glacier Grey Patagonia: A 4K Visual Adventure in 360°"},{"content":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nSo, you got yourself a plane ticket, you booked a hotel room and a tour, and you are ready to go on your international trip. Right? Well, for the most part. But did you think about how you are going to pay for meals, entertainment, etc. while you are abroad? Most of us have a credit card or a debit card, so we assume that we are all set. After all, it will work overseas. While that is correct, it is also true that you can end up with hundreds of dollars in international credit card fees.\nMost regular credit cards will charge you a fee 1%-3% of your purchase price each time you swipe the card. In order to avoid that, I recommend that you apply for a credit card that has no international fees. These types of credit cards are an excellent way to pay overseas without the added expense of transaction fees and when you return back home, you can use them just like any other credit card. In this article I will go over factors to consider when selecting a travel credit card as well as give you a list of some of the best travel credit cards to look into.\nMany travel credit cards are available with no annual fees, low interest rates and a number of different rewards so do some research before you apply for one. In the process you can also earn rewards. Make sure you apply early enough, so you can receive your card before your departure date. Another benefit to having an international travel credit card, is that most of them come with fraud protection, so if you lose your card or it is compromised, the credit card company will refund you the amount of the fraudulent charges. Not only that, but many will send you a new card within 24 hours even when overseas.\nSome of the best credit cards for travel come with annual fees, but there are some that don’t have any.\n!\nI would recommend looking at the credit cards with annual fees as well, because the perks you get with those may be worth the extra cost. If you travel a few times per year, you may find that the annual fee is justified.\nIn an increasingly globalized world, the ability to travel, shop, and conduct business internationally is not just a luxury but a necessity for many. However, the convenience of using a credit card abroad often comes with a hidden cost: international transaction fees. These fees can add up quickly, turning an otherwise reasonable purchase into an expensive one. Fortunately, a new breed of credit cards offers a solution to this problem by eliminating international transaction fees altogether.\nUnderstanding International Transaction Fees\nMost credit cards charge an extra fee for purchases made outside the United States, typically ranging from 1% to 3% of the transaction amount. While this may seem insignificant at first glance, frequent travelers or those who make substantial purchases abroad can end up paying a hefty sum in fees alone.\nThe Rise of No-Fee International Credit Cards\nRecognizing the need for more travel-friendly financial products, several credit card issuers have begun offering cards that do not charge international transaction fees. These cards are not limited to travel rewards cards; options now extend to cash-back, balance transfer, and even secured credit cards.\nThe Ultimate Handbook: Lightweight and Carry-On Travel Gear Essentials for Babies and Toddlers\nFactors to consider when selecting a No-Fee International Credit Card:\nDestination Acceptance: Ensure that the countries you are visiting widely accept the card you are considering. For example, Visa cards are accepted worldwide, while issuers like Discover may have limited acceptance outside of North America.\nOverall Goals: Determine the main reason you need a particular credit card. Are you looking to earn travel rewards, accumulate cashback, pay-over-time features, etc.? Different cards cater to different needs. Consider whether an annual fee with added benefits may better align with what you need than a no-annual-fee credit card. For example, the Platinum American Express card has a pretty steep annual fee, however it comes with a ton of benefits, such as $200 airline credit annually, $200 Fine-Hotel Credit annually, $240 Uber credit annually, early check-in and late check-outs at hotels, complimentary room upgrades at select hotels when available, the largest network of airport lounge access, etc.\nWelcome Offers: A generous welcome offer can significantly enhance a card’s value, so be sure to compare welcome offers between cards. Some can offer as much as 100,000 bonus points. These welcome offers change all the time, so be sure to check the latest offerings.\nNo Foreign-Transaction Fees: Above all, ensure that your credit card does not carry any foreign transaction fees.\nYour Overall financial Status: When considering a credit card ensure that you look at your overall financial status. Is another credit card going to be a burden to pay? Are you willing to close one credit card in lieu of opening this new credit card? Are you able to pay the entire balance at the end of each month or do you need to pay-over-time? There are in fact credit cards where the entire balance is due each month. Be careful when selecting a card to make sure that it will enhance and not worsen your existing financial situation.\nTraveling with a toddler? Here are some helpful items to consider!\nTop Picks for No-Fee International Credit Cards\nCapital One and Discover: These issuers stand out by not charging international transaction fees on any of their cards. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: A favorite among travelers, offering extensive rewards without the burden of international fees. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card: With no annual fee, this card is a cost-effective choice for international spending. American Express: A favorite among business travelers, these cards carry annual fees, but if you use all of the benefits, those fees can be more than offset. Maximizing Benefits\nTo make the most of these no-foreign-transaction-fee cards, it’s essential to consider the rewards rate, annual fees, and additional perks such as travel insurance and airport lounge access. By carefully selecting a card that aligns with your spending habits and travel plans, you can enjoy the freedom of international purchases without the worry of extra charges.\nMany of the international travel cards offer sign-on bonuses that can equate to hundreds of dollars in your pocket. For example, The Chase Sapphire Credit Cards can offer as much as 75,000 bonus points and with American Express you can earn as much as 80,000 bonus points (which can be the equivalent of about $800.\nConclusion\nCredit cards without international transaction fees are changing the game for international travelers and shoppers. By choosing the right card, you can save money and simplify your finances while exploring the world.\nFor a more detailed analysis and comparison of specific cards, you might want to check out resources like NerdWallet or Forbes Advisor, which offer comprehensive reviews and recommendations based on your financial needs and travel habits. Remember, the best card for you will depend on your individual spending patterns and travel frequency.\n","permalink":"/blog/choosing-a-no-fee-international-credit-card-factors-and-best-picks/","section":"blog","summary":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nSo, you got yourself a plane ticket, you booked a hotel room and a tour, and you are ready to go on your international trip.","title":"Choosing a No-Fee International Credit Card: Factors and Best Picks"},{"content":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nBora Bora, with its turquoise lagoons, overwater bungalows, and lush tropical landscapes, is a dream destination for many travelers. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, celebrating an anniversary, or simply seeking paradise, Bora Bora offers an unforgettable experience. You have finally decided to book that dream vacation to one of the world’s most beautiful destinations. Now it is time to start dreaming and planning your stay. If you want to read more about things to do in Bora Bora read my blog The Pearl of the Pacific…a Paradise on Earth…15 things to do in Bora Bora, French Polynesia.\nIf you do a quick search online, you will find that unlike other tropical destinations in the world, there is a limited number of resorts available. At any given time, there are anywhere from 15-20 resorts operating…and they book out! There are a few budget-friendly options, but I have to say that “you get what your pay for” truly applies here. In this post I will focus on two of the most luxurious and iconic resorts on the island of Bora Bora: the Four Seasons Bora Bora and the St Regis Bora Bora.\nWhen you imagine Bora Bora, chances are the image you are seeing is that of the Four Seasons or St Regis resorts. When it comes to luxury and service, both of these brands are unmatched, so how do you choose which one to stay at. I have had the privilege to stay at both and here is my impression and experience.\nBoth, the Four Seasons and St Regis are luxurious five-star private island resorts located in the heart of French Polynesia. The resorts offer both overwater bungalows and beach front villas, all of which face either the lagoon, the island/beach, Mt Otemanu or the Pacific Ocean. All of the beachfront villas at the Four Seasons face Mt Otemanu. At the St Regis, you get a choice between, lagoon and Pacific Ocean facing beach front villas.\nI will be comparing nine different categories that I found to be important. At the end you will find a chart where I give each category a score for comparison purposes only. Each category can earn 10 points for a total of 90 points. So, let’s get started!\n1. Views: The Four Seasons overwater bungalows are laid out in such a way that ensures breathtaking lagoon or mountain views while maintaining privacy. Instead of curtains, the bungalows have timber shutters that open wide to reveal the turquoise waters right from your bed.\nView of Mt Otemanu from a Four Seasons Bora Bora Overwater Bungalow\nThe St Regis overwater bungalows are some of the largest in French Polynesia. Some people have said that some of the deck layouts may obstruct the view from the bed and not every room has a lagoon view. Some of the beach villas face the Pacific Ocean instead of the lagoon. With that said, the views are still to die for.\nView from bedroom at St Regis Bora Bora Beach Front Villa\nMy favorite view of Bora Bora is at the Four Seasons with the overwater bungalows and Mt Otemanu as the backdrop. Mt Otemanu is literally right in front of you no matter where you are on the resort.\nFour Seasons Bora Bora Resort\nWhile at the St Regis, I missed that iconic view. While Mt Otemanu is visible from almost everywhere in the resort, it is also off to the side due to the location of the main beach and the overwater bungalows. Still stunning and breathtaking, but not as captivating as the Four Seasons view.\nSt Regis Bora Bora Resort\n2. Room Size: The Four Seasons overwater bungalows are elegant and spacious starting at about 104 m2 (1,120 sq.ft.). The beach villas start at 253 m2 (2,722 sq. ft.) for the one-bedroom villa estate.\nThe St Regis has probably the largest rooms in all of French Polynesia, both overwater bungalows and beach villas starting at 144 m2 (1549 sq.ft.). Some people like the extra room and others feels that it takes away from the coziness. Some comments I have read are that it feels more like an apartment than a resort room, but depending on what you are looking for that is not necessarily a bad thing. While we traveled with our toddler daughter, we found the extra space to be a bonus.\n3. Resort Size: The Four Seasons is a smaller resort, which feels very intimate and inviting. You can walk the entire resort on foot and each part of the resort has breathtaking views of the lagoon and Mt Otemanu.\nFour Seasons Bora Bora Resort Grounds\nSt Regis is a much larger resort. The resort does provide two bicycles per room for free to ride around the resort. Of course, you can always call for a pick-up if you don’t want to walk. If you like walking or want to go out for a morning run, the St Regis does have plenty to space to do so.\nSt Regis Bora Bora Resort Beach and Bicycles\nI personally prefer the smaller size of the Four Seasons, but that is just a personal choice. I enjoyed being able to walk everywhere.\n4. Room Selection: The Four Seasons Bora Bora has about 115 rooms (108 overwater bungalows and 7 beach villas). My only complaint is that there are only a handful of beach front villas and all of them are on the pricier side. Other than that, I love the overwater bungalows at the Four Seasons.\nFour Seasons Bora Bora Overwater Bungalows\nThe St Regis Bora Bora has 91 rooms (77 overwater bungalows and 14 beach villas). One reason we chose the St Regis over the Four Seasons for one of our trips is because we wanted a beach villa given that we were traveling with a toddler who could not swim yet. We wanted her to have space to run around and play. We were able to get a beach villa facing the lagoon with a private pool. It was perfect for our family. Our daughter could run around on the beach, and we could all swim in the privacy of our own villa. The price for the beach villa at the St Regis was about 1/4 of the price for the one-bedroom beach villa at the Four Seasons.\nSt Regis Bora Bora Beach Front Villas\nI recommend deciding what is important to you before selecting a room. Is it the bigger size, the private pool, the beach access, the view? These are all very personal choices and should be taken into consideration when choosing the right room for you.\n5. Pools: While the Four Seasons has only one large family-friendly pool, the location and view from the pool are amazing. It felt tranquil and peaceful lounging by the pool. There is also the option to book a room with your own private pool if you choose to do so.\nFour Seasons Pool\nFour Seasons Pool\nThe St Regis has two pools, one is family-friendly, and one is adults only. The family friendly pool is located near all the restaurants. Its location and view left something to be desired. The adults only pool, however, is located in a quieter part of the resort on a motu amongst the overwater bungalows. It definitely offers more privacy and tranquility.\nSt Regis Bora Bora Family Friendly Pool\n6. Kids \u0026 Pets: Kids are welcome at both resorts. Our daughter was treated like royalty at the St Regis! We have not yet taken her to the Four Seasons; however, I am going to assume that the level of care for children is excellent there as well. As always we travel light with carry-on luggage only. If you want to read more about traveling light with small children visit my blog The Ultimate Handbook: Lightweight and Carry-On Travel Gear Essentials for Babies and Toddlers.\nThe Four Seasons offers a kids club with activities for kids 4-12 years of age.\nThe St Regis offers nanny and babysitting services as well as activities for kids of all ages. Also, kids under the age of 6 stay, eat and drink for free. Bonus!\nThe Kids Center at St Regis\nThe Kids Center at St Regis\nDogs/Pets are not allowed at either one of the resorts.\n7. Restaurants: The Four Seasons has 4 restaurants on-site plus in-room dinning. On one of our visits to the Four Seasons, I was 4 months pregnant, and the resort offered an excellent selection of healthy food choices as well as mocktails for my enjoyment. The restaurant experience at the Four Seasons was wonderful, casual and laid back. The staff was very friendly and extremely attentive and easy-going.\nFare Hoa Beach Bar at Four Seasons Bora Bora\nThe St Regis has 5 restaurants including the famous Lagoon Restaurant at The St Regis Bora Bora restaurant and the 727 Bar plus in-room dinning. The restaurant experience at the St Regis was excellent, offering more upscale options and fine dining than the Four Seasons. One of my favorite St Regis “amenities”, however, was this awesome to-go bag for my beverage. How do you beat that?\nThe Awesome To-Go Container at St Regis Bora Bora\n8. Service \u0026 Amenities: Both resorts provide excellent service and all levels, and you will be treated like a celebrity no matter which one you choose.\nOne of the unique services available at the Four Seasons was the on-site doctor. We visited Bora Bora during the pandemic while I was pregnant and I felt safe and at ease knowing that there was a doctor onsite, if I ever needed one.\nThe St Regis, however, has the amazing Butler Service. We didn’t expect much, but we were surprised by the extra level of attention and care. When we arrived at the St Regis, we realized that we had forgotten our daughter’s sun hat. We also asked about buying her a floatie for the swimming pool. When we got to our room, our butler had already taken care of that. There was a hat, floatie and other kids’ activities waiting for her. Most restaurants at either resort recommend that you make reservations ahead of time. We hadn’t made any, so our butler had gone ahead and made those for us. She had selected a different restaurant for us each night. She came to check on us every morning at breakfast and no matter what you asked for, it was just a phone call away. Just by mentioning something in a conversation, it was taken care of. I had mentioned that I had celebrated my birthday recently, and I was surprised with a “belated” birthday cake waiting for me in our room. I can’t say enough about the butler service, it is really on an entirely different level. My vote for best service would have to go to the St Regis.\nExcellent Butler Service at the St Regis Bora Bora\n9. Price and Value The pricing at both resorts can be high-end, but fully justified by the experience.\nThe Four Seasons One-Bedroom Beach-View Overwater Bungalow Suite prices start at about $1200/night plus taxes and fees. The Four Seasons does run occasional specials where the 4th night is free. It is an excellent way to get more for your money.\nFour Seasons Bora Bora Resort\nThe St Regis Overwater Deluxe Villa with Lagoon View starts at about $1155/night plus taxes and fees.\nSt Regis Bora Bora Resort\nPrices and availability can vary depending on the season. The high season in Bora Bora is between May and September and around major holidays. If you want to get the best price on a room, I recommend vising during off-peak months like the first two weeks of December or the month of February and March. There are fewer tourists, and the prices can be lower.\nIf you are a member of the Marriott Bonvoy Program or the Platinum American Express, there are additional perks you may receive, such as resort credits, complimentary room upgrades, early check-in/late check-out, etc. So don’t forget to check your rewards programs.\nHere is a comparison chart for both resorts as I experienced them. Your experience may vary. I gave each category a value on the 10-point scale. The maximum number you could earn was 90.\nFour Seasons Bora Bora St Regis Bora Bora Views 10 8 Room Size 10 10 Resort Size 10 9 Room Selection 9 10 Pools 10 9 Kids 10 10 Restaurants 9 10 Service \u0026 Amenities 9 10 Price and Value 10 10 TOTAL 87 86 In Conclusion: The truth is that visiting either one of the two resorts would be amazing. Both, the Four Seasons and St Regis are 5-Star resorts for a reason, and both deliver on every level. Visiting Bora Bora is like stepping into a postcard-worthy paradise. The crystal-clear turquoise waters, framed by lush greenery and iconic overwater bungalows, create a scene straight out of a dream. Whether you are lounging on pristine white-sand beaches, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, or indulging in sumptuous cuisine, Bora Bora offers an unparalleled sense of luxury and relaxation. The warm Polynesian hospitality adds an extra layer of charm to this idyllic destination, making every moment spent there truly unforgettable.\nIs Bora Bora Worth It? Absolutely! Bora Bora is a once-in-a-lifetime destination, and more than once if you are lucky. The overwater bungalows, the warm hospitality, and the sheer beauty of the place make it worth every dollar.\nRemember, it’s not just a vacation; it’s a soul-stirring experience. So, pack your swimsuit, leave your worries behind, and let Bora Bora work its magic!\n","permalink":"/blog/bora-bora-luxury-resorts-comparison-four-seasons-vs-st-regis/","section":"blog","summary":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nBora Bora, with its turquoise lagoons, overwater bungalows, and lush tropical landscapes, is a dream destination for many travelers.","title":"Bora Bora Luxury Resorts Comparison: Four Seasons vs. St Regis"},{"content":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nTraveling is more than just exploring new places; it’s about collecting memories. And since we always travel light, we are not big fans of bringing home large items. So, what better way to commemorate your adventures than with travel magnets? These tiny, colorful souvenirs hold a special place in our hearts (and on our fridges and art walls). Let’s dive into the world of travel magnets and discover their many uses!\n1. Collecting Memories Fridge Art: The most common use for travel magnets is, of course, sticking them to your refrigerator. Each magnet tells a story—a snapshot of a moment when you stood in awe of the Eiffel Tower, hiked through the Patagonian wilderness, or marveled at the Taj Mahal. Every time you reach for that carton of milk, you’re reminded of those magical experiences. 2. Decorating Your Space Gallery Wall: Create a mini gallery wall by arranging travel magnets on a blank wall. Mix and match sizes, shapes, and colors. It’s like curating your own art exhibit—one that celebrates your wanderlust. You can use magnetic frames and hang those on the wall, or you can use magnetic paint, which makes your entire wall a giant magnet. Here is the Gallery Wall that I have created: 3. Planning Future Adventures Wanderlust Map: Use a world map as your canvas. Place magnets on the countries you’ve visited and dream about the ones you haven’t. It’s a visual reminder of your bucket list destinations. !\n4. Gifts and Souvenirs Thoughtful Presents: When you’re back home, share the love! Gift travel magnets to friends and family. It’s a small token that says, “I thought of you during my travels.” Share the moments you love the most with the people you adore the most. 5. Educational Tools Geography Lessons: Teach kids (and adults) about world geography using travel magnets. Point out countries, capitals, and famous landmarks. It’s a fun way to learn! Seeing all the beautiful places our world has to offer may awaken the adventurous spirit of children and adults alike. !\n6. DIY Projects Magnet Board: Create a magnet board for your home office or kitchen. Attach magnets to a metal board, and use them to hold notes, photos, and reminders. It is a fun way to make your daily to-dos and reminders less mundane. Each time you look at your board, you will see a beautiful reminder of places you love or places you would love to see. 7. Wedding Favors Destination Weddings: If you’re having a destination wedding, consider personalized travel magnets as wedding favors. Guests can take home a piece of your love story. For my own destination wedding, I gave away travel magnets as wedding favors and to this day our guest display those on their refrigerators. Below is an example of a wedding favor travel magnet. This exclusive design can be found in my Etsy store. You can customize it with your own pictures. You can get the actual magnet or to save money, order the digital file and print it yourself at your favorite local print shop. 8. Supporting Local Artists Etsy Finds: Many travel magnets, purchased online or locally, are handmade by local artists. Buying them supports small businesses and keeps traditional craftsmanship alive. For example, in my Etsy store Mimski360 I sell a variety of travel magnets that I create myself. I have taken every photo in each magnet. I create each design with so much love and passion and I am very excited to share those designs with you. New designs are added weekly. You can purchase the actual physical magnet or a digital file that you can print at your favorite print ship. Conclusion Next time you’re browsing through a souvenir shop or online marketplace like Etsy, don’t underestimate the power of a travel magnet. It’s not just a piece of plastic, vinyl or resin—it’s a memory, a conversation starter, and a little piece of the world you’ve explored. So go ahead, collect those magnets, stick them proudly, and let them remind you of the incredible journey you’re on! If you want to see a magnet of a specific place or want one custom made, please reach out to me via the comments section or my Etsy store.\nRemember, every travel magnet has a story to tell. Whether it’s a quirky shape, a vibrant color, or a simple silhouette, these souvenirs connect us to the places we’ve fallen in love with. Happy magnet hunting!\n","permalink":"/blog/the-magic-of-travel-magnets-souvenirs-that-stick/","section":"blog","summary":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nTraveling is more than just exploring new places; it’s about collecting memories. And since we always travel light, we are not big fans of bringing home large items.","title":"The Magic of Travel Magnets: Souvenirs That Stick"},{"content":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nTraveling is like opening a treasure chest of experiences. We set sail with maps, itineraries, and dreams, but sometimes the universe has other plans. These are the moments when our well-laid paths veer into uncharted territory—the “delightful” detours that make our travel tales richer, funnier, and more memorable. Buckle up, fellow wanderers, as we dive into the world of unexpected adventures!\nThese are my top five suggestions on how to navigate a situation where your plans took a major detour.\n!\n1. Embrace Spontaneity There’s a certain thrill in throwing caution to the wind and embracing the spontaneity of travel. Perhaps your flight gets canceled, or you miss a train connection. Instead of letting frustration take over, consider it an opportunity for adventure. Who knows what hidden gems you might stumble upon while waiting for the next available option? From impromptu street performances to striking up conversations with locals, spontaneity often leads to unexpected delights.\n2. Navigating the Unknown One of the most valuable lessons travel teaches us is adaptability. When faced with unforeseen challenges, it’s essential to remain calm and open-minded. Take a wrong turn and find yourself in an unfamiliar neighborhood? Instead of panicking, use it as a chance to explore a side of the destination you wouldn’t have discovered otherwise. Navigating the unknown often unveils the true essence of a place, allowing for authentic experiences and meaningful connections.\n3. Finding Silver Linings In the midst of chaos, there are always silver linings waiting to be discovered. A missed flight might lead to an impromptu road trip through a picturesque countryside. A language barrier could result in hilarious miscommunications and newfound friendships. By shifting your perspective and embracing the unexpected, even the most challenging situations can become cherished memories.\n4. Creating Lasting Memories Some of the most memorable travel experiences stem from moments of spontaneity and unpredictability. Whether it’s getting lost in a maze-like bazaar, stumbling upon a hidden waterfall, or sharing a meal with strangers-turned-friends, these are the stories that linger long after the journey ends. Embrace the detours,\nrelish the unexpected, and let every twist and turn become a part of your\ntravel narrative.\n5. Just Breath Take a deep breath and remain calm. It is understandable that you may be disappointed but avoid being hard on yourself or others. Acknowledge your emotions, process them and avoid suppressing them. Understand why you feel disappointed. Put the situation in perspective. Sometimes setbacks are opportunities for growth. As they teach in mindfulness meditation and to quote Buddha:\nIf you can change the situation, then why worry about it?\nIf you can’t change the situation, then why worry about it?\nThere is no benefit in worrying whatsoever!\nI have had my fair share of misadventures, all of which have resulted in heartwarming and funny memories that we love to tell and remember time and time again. Here are some of my “Oops” moments.\n!\nThe Missed Connection On our very first international trip with my now husband, we went to South America. We adventured from Lima to Machu Picchu, had a wonderful time at the ancient site. For more about visiting Machu Picchu read my blog The Road to the Lost City of the Incas. On our way back, we had to go back to Cusco to catch a flight to Santiago, Chile (our next destination on that trip). We woke up early in the morning in Ollantaytambo, Peru, had coffee and breakfast and were ready to go. We opted to hire a taxi to drive us back to Cusco. The approximately 37-mile (60 km) journey was supposed to take two hours, so we had plenty of time to make our flight. About halfway through our drive, I had to use the restroom (sorry, I am only human)! Our driver assured us we had plenty of time to stop, in fact he suggested a wonderful place where we could also go lama petting.\nWell, fast forward just a little bit, we made it to the airport about 15 minutes prior to departure and even though we didn’t have checked luggage (since we travel light with carry-on only), we were not allowed to board the plane. The next plane we were told was the following day and we had to buy a ticket for it. The worst part however was, that not only did we lose our plane ticked to Lima, Peru we also lost our plane tickets to Santiago, Chile to Mendoza, Argentina and also our plane ticket back to Los Angeles, USA. So, we basically had no ticket to even go home. Let’s just say we were less than thrilled, highly annoyed, majorly frustrated, a tad bit worried and sweating in all the wrong places. Not a good look for a new couple travelling internationally together for the first time!\nIt was, however, a wonderful teaching moment for both of us. We learned to never book one ticket for the entire journey, because when you miss one flight, you lose all remaining tickets as well. Now I prefer to book separate one-way tickets, so if needed, I only have to re-purchase one ticket. At the end of the day, we booked a hotel in Cusco, went out to have a wonderful dinner (with wine of course) and eventually made it to Santiago, Chile one day late. We had to re-purchase all of our remaining plane tickets (5 total) for the low price of approximately $4000, but we had a wonderful trip and I ended up marrying the guy 4 years later. This particular trip is now officially known as “The $4000 Lama Petting Experience” trip. Phew!\nThe Lost-In-A-Maze Saga Maps are overrated. In Marrakesh, we followed a tour guide down a labyrinth of narrow alleys that is the Medina. Suddenly, our tour guide was due to pray at his mosque, so he wished us a wonderful day and told us to go (and I quote) “Go Right, Left, Right, Left and you will end up at your hotel.” Those directions? Not exactly correct, but we somehow found our way through the maze of narrow alley ways. With the help of our phone’s GPS, we managed to get to a place that we knew. It became my favorite memory of Marrakesh.\n!\nThe Mysterious Train Delay Trains are like time machines—they whisk you away to distant lands. But one misty morning in Zurich, Switzerland, my train destined to take me to the airport, left the train station, but in the wrong direction. Suddenly, we arrived at what looked like a “train parking lot”, the train parked, all the lights went out and about 50 of us on the train just sat there in dismay. Fortunately, there was a phone on the train, so we were able to call for assistance. Eventually, someone came to open the train and let us out. We did make it to the airport, having missed our planes of course, but with an excellent story to tell. In Switzerland of all places, known for its world-famous watches and “timely” train schedules we managed to get stuck on a train to nowhere!\nThe famous Zurich Hauptbahnhof…where trains run everywhere and sometime nowhere…\nThe Lost Wedding Ring Saga After our destination wedding In Bora Bora, French Polynesia followed by a family celebration in Plovdiv, Bulgaria it was finally time for us newlyweds to rest. We decided to spend a few days is Istanbul, Turkey before heading back home to Los Angeles, USA. We had a wonderful time until we got on the plane to go home, and my husband realized he was missing his wedding ring. That was fast! Fortunately, the hotel we stayed at contacted us that they found the ring. We gave them our home address and they sent it to the US. We are very grateful to the Sirkeci Mansion for being so thoughtful. My husband wasn’t going to get out of this marriage that easily!\nA few years later, he “forgot” his wedding ring again while we were vacationing in Bali, but we got it back that day. I see a pattern there! Well, we are still married so all is well :-)\nConclusion Dear fellow adventurers, embrace the detours. Travel is a journey filled with twists, turns, and unexpected detours. While meticulously planned itineraries have their place, there’s something magical about embracing the spontaneity of the unknown. Cherish the unplanned moments—the wrong turns, the missed buses, the unexpected friendships. They’re the stitches that weave our travel tapestry. So, when plans go awry, raise your glass (or coconut) and toast to the delightful chaos and remember to keep an open mind, navigate with curiosity, and savor every unexpected adventure that comes your way. After all, life’s greatest adventures happen when we let go of the map and follow the whispers of serendipity.\nPlease take a moment to share some of your favorite detours and misadventures. I would love to hear some stories of how you handled the unexpected!\nBon voyage, my fellow wanderers!\n","permalink":"/blog/unexpected-adventures-5-tips-for-making-the-most-of-your-travels-when-plans-go-awry/","section":"blog","summary":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nTraveling is like opening a treasure chest of experiences. We set sail with maps, itineraries, and dreams, but sometimes the universe has other plans.","title":"Unexpected Adventures: 5 Tips for Making the Most of your Travels When Plans Go Awry"},{"content":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nWhen trying to decide on a place to visit we tend to focus on well-known and highly commercial destinations. One reason is probably because of how easy it is to find information about those places, but what if I told you that you may be missing out on some wonderful vacation spots. One of those “not-so-famous-but-awesome” places is Quito, Ecuador. A lot less famous than its neighboring Peru and Colombia, Ecuador surprised us with its captivating history, awe-inspiring nature and rich culture. Ecuador has been on our list of places to visit for a long time, but honestly, we had no idea what to expect or what we wanted to see. Many of you have heard of the Galapagos Islands famous for their fascinating wildlife, but we only had 4 days, so the Galapagos were out of the question. Instead, we decided to focus on Quito, the capital city of Ecuador and the surrounding areas and let me tell you…it was worth it!\nAfter extensive research, we decided to stay in the Historic Old Town of Quito. We stayed at the boutique hotel La Casona De La Ronda, a private residence until 1738, centrally located in the old town with easy access to shops, restaurants and historic sights. Quito’s old town is also one of the biggest and most well-preserved old towns in South America. It was designated an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978.\nLa Casona De La Ronda Boutique Hotel in Quito, Ecuador\nOn day one we decided to stay in town to acclimate. The Quito Old Town is situated at a stunning 9350 ft elevation (2850 meter). It is the second highest capital city in the world (after La Paz, Bolivia). This became quickly apparent as we attempted our first casual walk through the city. We are used to walking miles back home in California but just one hill in Quito required us to take a break. The less oxygen and thinner air therefore really presented a challenge for us. Our lungs had to work much harder to accomplish the same activities. It was truly fascinating to experience.\nThe steep cobblestone streets of Quito, Ecuador\nSome of the most famous places to see in Old Town Quito are Plaza Grande (Independence Square)\nThe iconic baroque church built from 1605-1765 called Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús (Church of the Society of Jesus). Its interior is incredible detailed and quite remarkable.\nAnother beautiful piece of architecture is the Basilica del Voto Nacional. It is a 19-th century neo-Gothic Catholic Church with beautiful views of the city.\nDay two came around and as if the city itself was not high enough, we decided to head up even further to The TelefériQo, a viewpoint accessible by cable car or hiking (!). The TelefériQo, also known as TelefériQo Cruz Loma, is a remarkable gondola lift in Quito, Ecuador. It gracefully ascends from the edge of the city center, climbing the eastern slope of Pichincha Volcano, ultimately reaching the breathtaking lookout point known as Cruz Loma. The viewing platform is located at 13451 ft (4100 meters) above sea level, high enough to give some people altitude sickness. We didn’t get sick, but even walking on a flat surface became a challenge and required us to rest more often. Pretty fascinating! Also due to the high altitude it is common to have a cloud cover and fog especially in the early morning hours.\nTelefériQo Cruz Loma Viewpoint\nIf you want to see a spectacular view of the city head out to the El Panecillo hill where you can also admire the aluminum made statue of the Virgin Mary overlooking the Old Town on Quito. The hill and statue are easily accessible by car.\nView of Quito from El Panecillo Hill\nWhile exploring the city of Quito is wonderful, we recommend to also take at least one day trip out of the city. This will give you the chance to experience the beauty of the country’s cloud forest, the gripping volcano landscapes (8 surround the city and 85 total are scattered around the country), the mysterious Amazon, the historic nearby Pre-Inca ruins and of course the Equator line, the imaginary line the country is named after.\nOn our 4-day trip to Ecuador, we only had limited time, so on day three we chose to visit the Equator Line, the cloud forest and the Tulipe Archaeological Site.\nIf you want to visit the Equator, there are a total of three places outside of Quito advertising to be the place where the imaginary line runs through. The most famous one is called Mitad Del Mundo. It is a monument constructed between 1979 - 1982 based on measurements from the 1736 expedition called the French Geodesic Mission. It has become a tourist hot-spot and the site for many prominent events. Later with the invention of GPS it was discovered that the Equator actually runs 787 ft (240 meters) to the north of the Mitad Del Mundo monument.\nThe Intinan Museum is the place where you can actually walk on the Equator. The museum offers guided tours that take you on a short journey through Ecuador’s history and a few fun experiments surrounding the mystery about being north, south or on the Equator itself. You get to balance an egg on the Equator, walk on the Equator, see water running in clockwise or counterclockwise on either side of the Equator, etc. If is definitely worth visiting. Both Mitad Del Mundo and the Intinan Museum are located about 16 miles (26 km) from Quito which is between 30-60 min drive depending on traffic.\nSitting in both hemispheres!\nEcuador is also home to a number of historic archaeological sites, and we chose one of the lesser-known ruins called Tulipe Archaeological Site located about 2 hours by car from Quito. This site was home to the Pre-Inca culture of the Yumbo people. According to records and findings in the area, they occupied to area from about 800 AD to about 1660 AD when a volcano erupted and most likely forced, the Yumbo people to flee. The Yumbo culture was known to be peaceful merchants accommodating the movement of goods from Ecuador’s coast to the highlands and vice versa. They are believed to have been avid astronomers as well.\nLast but not least we had the privilege to visit the Ecuadorean Cloud Forest. One of our favorite experiences was being surrounded by hundreds of hummingbirds. Ecuador is home to 132+ hummingbird species. We had never seen so many different colors of hummingbirds and they were not afraid of us. It was truly special to see them up-close and in such numbers.\nHummingbirds in the rainforest\nEcuador is also known as one of the most popular places for birdwatching. We don’t know much about birds, but we did appreciate the variety of birds and seeing them in their natural habitat. It gave a better understanding and appreciation for the diversity and life of birds and why people love to watch and study them.\nLast but least, let’s talk about food! One of our favorite things of traveling is the food. Eating well and trying local specialties gives you a different appreciation and understanding for the country and its people. Ecuador’s food was simply delicious and may say plentiful. The plates and portions everywhere we went were generous and we of course ate all of it because it was so delightful.\nOne of our favorite places to dine was Casa los Geranios Restaurante - Centro Historico. The service, the food and the view were wonderful.\nCasa los Geranios Restaurante - Centro Histórico\nAnd one of our favorite places to go out for drinks was Leña Quiteña Bar and Restaurant. Once again excellent service and a wonderful view of the city.\nLeña Quiteña Bar and Restaurant\nEmbark on a captivating journey to Quito, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge in a mesmerizing tapestry. Nestled amidst the Andes, Ecuador’s capital city unfolds its rich heritage through colonial architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant streets. Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, where narrow cobblestone streets lead to centuries-old churches and lively plazas. Ascend to the panoramic heights of the TelefériQo for breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Quito’s dynamic spirit extends beyond its historic core, revealing a thriving arts scene, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality. Immerse yourself in the diverse flavors and colors of Quito and discover a destination that seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary allure.\nIn only four days we fell in love with this wonderful destination!\n","permalink":"/blog/quito-in-4-days-a-perfect-blend-of-culture-and-nature/","section":"blog","summary":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nWhen trying to decide on a place to visit we tend to focus on well-known and highly commercial destinations.","title":"Quito in 4 Days: A Perfect Blend of Culture and Nature"},{"content":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nEmbarking on a journey is more than just exploring new places; it’s about cultivating habits that enhance the overall experience. Good travel habits can transform an ordinary trip into an extraordinary adventure. First and foremost, the art of packing efficiently is a game-changer. Streamlining your wardrobe and essentials not only lightens your load but also makes navigating airports and hotels a breeze.\nAnother commendable habit is immersing oneself in the local culture. Engaging with locals, trying regional cuisine, and participating in cultural events provide a genuine sense of place. Flexibility is key, as unexpected twists often lead to the most memorable experiences. Adapting to new surroundings with an open mind fosters a deeper connection to the destination.\nOn the flip side, succumbing to bad travel habits can cast a shadow on the wanderlust. Overpacking not only burdens your journey but also limits room for souvenirs and newfound treasures. Rushing through destinations without savoring the moment diminishes the richness of travel. In the age of social media, excessive photo-documentation can distance you from the present. It’s vital to strike a balance between capturing memories and living them.\nNeglecting environmental responsibility is perhaps one of the gravest travel sins. Wasteful practices, such as single-use plastics and excessive energy consumption, contribute to the degradation of pristine destinations. Sustainable travel habits, like minimizing plastic usage and supporting eco-friendly accommodations, play a pivotal role in preserving the beauty of our planet for future generations.\nIn essence, cultivating good travel habits fosters a more meaningful and sustainable connection with the world. It’s a journey of self-discovery intertwined with the tapestry of diverse cultures and landscapes.\nIf you love traveling as much as we do, you will agree that it is important to travel light and focus on the experience.\nToday I will share with you some of the DOs and DON’Ts of traveling that we have learned over the years. You don’t need to apply each and every single suggestion to each trip, but feel free to add your own and experiment with what works for you. Being the best traveler, you can be takes time and experience. Forming and abandoning certain habits also takes time, so don’t stress! Instead get excited and hit the road! So, here we go…15 simple tips for your next adventure planning!\n1. Pack Light\nWe may be a little on the extreme side of traveling light (we travel with only carry on suitcases regardless of the length of our journey), but if you manage to at least downsize your luggage, that would be an accomplishment also. Maybe purchase a smaller suitcase to help you travel lighter. Pick clothes that you can mix and match. Also, keep in mind that with added airline fees you may end up paying extra money for luggage. Wouldn’t you rather spend that money on something else? Traveling is about comfort and the experience of a new place or culture, not about how many fancy outfits you can bring along. Pick a couple of pairs of pants/skirts and a couple of shirts/tops that you can easily mix and match. Read our blog Packing Light for a Cold Weather Trip for some ideas and a sample packing list.\nLooking down the crevice of the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentinian Patagonia\n2. Bring 2-3 Pairs of Shoes\nBring no more than 2-3 pairs of shoes (including the ones you are traveling with). Depending on your destination, bring comfortable walking shoes, flip flops and maybe a pair of dressy shoes in case you decide on that fancy dinner. Plan ahead according to the activities you are anticipating on doing and bring only the appropriate footwear for those. We all have that cute pair of shoes that is just extremely uncomfortable, I would suggest that you leave that at home. Shoes are bulky and can take up quite a bit of space. Again, you are not going on a fashion show.\n3. Research Your Hotel/Accommodations\nMany times, we are tempted to pick the cheapest hotel, Airbnb etc., just based on budget, but it is imperative that you spend a little time researching your accommodations. First and foremost is location, is it in a central location, close to public transportation, activities and attractions that you want to see? You can save a lot of money on transportation by being in a central location giving you the ability to walk to many of the places you want to see. Second, safety - is it located in a safe neighborhood where you don’t have to be afraid to walk outside. Third, cleanliness and amenities - does it have all the comfort and amenities that would make your stay more enjoyable? Sometimes your hotel can make or break your vacation/travel experience. So think about it and spend some time on research.\nAs tempting as it may sound cheaper is not always better. However, the same goes for the most expensive hotels as well. More expensive is not always better. Sometimes it makes sense to go cheap, but staying at a place that you don’t enjoy can really affect your travel experience. On the flip side, overspending on accommodations can take away money from other experiences. So be mindful! There are some places in this world where you should splurge on your accommodations. Trust me it will be worth it!\n4. Plan a Daytrip or Tour\nJust like finding the optimal place to stay, spend some time researching activities to do and things you want to see. Decide on whether you will be renting a car or booking a tour with a tour guide. It truly saves a lot of time knowing what you want to see and do. Also, it allows you to better manage the time you are away. Not knowing what you want to see or do can be a real waste of your vacation time. Depending on the season you are going, you may not be able to book a tour or visit a certain place last minute simply because they book out. For example, if you want to see a symphony at the Sydney Opera House in Sydney, Australia you should check their website to see what is available on what dates and book tickets in advance. Believe it or not, certain attractions and activities book out due to popular demand.\n5. Allow for Time to Rest\nI know you want to see as much as possible (I am one of those people too), but it is important to leave a few days without any plans and just go with the flow. Relax! You don’t want to leave your vacation more tired than when you got there. If you feel like you didn’t get to see everything you wanted to or you would like to see more…guess what? You can always go back! Overbook your stay with activities can take away from the enjoyment of your vacation. It can be exhausting to attend activity after activity, so ensure that you allow for some free time to simply enjoy the place you are visiting without any booked/planned itineraries. Maybe just find a peaceful place to read a book, sip on a cup of coffee or simply people watch.\n6. Bring Cash\nWith that said, don’t bring too much (maybe a couple of hundred dollars). There are two reason to bring cash. One, so you have a means to pay for small things (taxi, quick bite to eat) until you reach an ATM. Two, in case you have issues with you credit/ATM card. As mentioned before, bring some cash, but not too much. First of all, it is bulky, it fills up your wallet and it is never a good idea to pull out a wallet stuffed with cash. Second, if you lose it…chances are it is gone for good. You will not recover it. Three, exchange rates for cash are not usually better than withdrawing cash from an ATM machine (just make sure you are using credit cards/ATM cards with no fees). Four, some foreign exchange bureaus do not accept bills that are not in perfect/mint condition, so they may refuse to exchange it for you.\n7. Exchange/Get Cash at ATM/Bank\nMy suggestion is to exchange only enough money to pay for your transportation needs from the airport/bus stop and small incidentals. You may get a much better deal exchanging in town at a bank or simply taking money from an ATM (which will dispense in local currency). Only take what you need and leave any unnecessary cash locked in your room safe (if you have one). Cash is easily lost or stolen. Most people rush to change all of their cash into the local currency as soon as they land…not always a good idea. Unless you have done some preliminary research and know the exchange rates, you may be getting an unfavorable rate. Many of those exchange bureaus know that most people will be tempted to change some money right away, so they can inflate or deflate their rates depending on demand.\n8. Free/Alternative Ways of Transportation\nDepending on your travel destination you may have a number of transportation options and choices. For example, if you are traveling to a location like Bora Bora, you will have a very limited choice in modes of transportation (by boat only). If you are in a large metropolitan area however, you will have some options. So do some research on how to get around. First, check with your hotel/Airbnb to see if they offer free airport transportation (many do). If they don’t, get their rates on what it costs to pick you up. Then research public transportation, many centrally located establishments are easily accessible via train/bus in many cities (Google maps is a good source of information for that). Third, research taxi/cab rates. Many websites will post approximate rates for what to expect it will cost to take a taxi. Fourth, check if Uber/Lyft or a similar service operates in the area. Fifth, check the country’s official taxi companies to make it easier to avoid being scammed by an unlicensed taxi driver. If all else fails and you can’t find the answer, call your hotel/landlord. They will be happy to answer any questions you may have and give you suggestions.\nShowing up unprepared and not knowing your options makes it extremely easy to get scammed into overpaying for a most likely unlicensed taxi ride. Sometimes we just want to get to our destination that we are willing to pay anything. Don’t let that person be you. Another place where you easily overpay are tours. If you are unprepared and decide last minute that you want to take a tour, you will likely be paying a higher price for it.\n9. Try Local Food\nOne reason many people travel is for the food. Unless you have specific allergies or absolutely dislike a certain food, please try some of the local delicacies. Even if the ingredients list sounds completely crazy…don’t be afraid. It is better to try something and not like it (you don’t have to try it again) than to miss out on something really delicious.\nMany people tend to gravitate towards things they know including restaurants. I know when you see a McDonald’s, Subway or KFC restaurant abroad it feels like a slice of home. As tempting as it may sound, try to steer clear of chain restaurants. My suggestion is to forgo those restaurants and try something new. You may actually really enjoy it! Sure, there may be a situation where you have limited options, but if that is not the case…go local. Isn’t that why you left home in the first place, to try something new?\n10. Stay Well Hydrated and Fed\nSometimes we are so excited to be somewhere new that all we want to do is sight-see and we forget to eat proper meals and drink sufficient water. It is imperative to stay hydrated and eat well while on vacation. Chances are you will be outdoors quite a bit, walking around, attending activities etc. This is the worst time to get sick and end up in the hospital and trust me dehydration and malnutrition are the easiest ways to end up at the doctor. I recommend you bring a travel/collapsible water bottle that you can fill up and take with you. We use the Vapur Flexible, Collapsible Water Bottle.\nVapur Collapsible Water Bottle\nBring a backpack to carry your water and while at it bring some snacks. You may not eat them, but at least you have the option to if you get hungry.\nYou are on vacation, not on a diet! So don’t skip meals and don’t skip drinking water. Even though you are not working, your activity levels may actually be elevated as compared to your regular day at home, so it is extremely important that you stay hydrated and nourished. Many of us have been in a situation where we ate a huge breakfast (free breakfast buffet!) and then we skipped lunch. Even if you don’t eat a full lunch, have somethings to hold you over until dinner otherwise you are throwing off your body’s natural meal schedule which can lead to fatigue, headaches etc.\n11. Download Maps/Travel Apps\nNowadays it is so easy to travel with just your smart phone. If your phone service provider does not offer international data coverage, check alternative ways to get data on the road (maybe a local SIM card or prepaid international service). You can download maps (for example Google Maps) for offline use meaning you don’t have to be online to get directions etc. You will not get real time traffic and other information, but you are on vacation so take it easy. You can also download translator apps like Google Translate to help you with the foreign language as well as apps that show you attractions, tours and things to do such as TripAdvisor.\nI still see people bringing books and maps while traveling and I wonder why. First of all they are heavy and bulky taking up lots of precious packing space and second, many times they are outdated and can just as easily get you lost. Join the 21st century by using available technology.\n12. Go Off the Beaten Path/Take the Road Less Traveled\nSometimes your favorite memory or experience will not be the most famous attraction you visited on your trip. Rather it will be that one unexpected afternoon walk you took through town just wondering the streets or that day trip to a deserted beach outside of town. You never know, but sometimes an authentic and true adventurous experience is worth so much more than vising yet another museum. So don’t be afraid and follow the road less traveled, it is worth it.\nDon’t feel obligated to visit every major attraction while on vacation. I see many people stuck to their guidebooks trying to visit every place listed in there, but is that really the best way to spend your vacation? Sure, there are some “major” attractions that are worth visiting, but some are quite simply overrated. Do you really need to see every church in Rome and every museum in Paris? Spend your time wisely. If traveling during the height of tourist season, major attractions tend to get extremely crowded and everything around the attracting is way overpriced. Would you rather spend your day in line at a museum or wine-tasting outside of town? I know what I would rather do!\n13. Take Photos of Important Details\nRemember to take photos of important details such as your street name (sometimes they are difficult to pronounce), parking space number, important ticket numbers, flight numbers, room numbers etc. We do everything on our phones these days, so this would be an excellent time to use your phone to its full potential. Take notes, take pictures, record a voice message…whatever you need to do to have access to information you may need. Relying on your memory alone in unreliable! We all think that we have great memory and are excellent at multitasking…well, the truth is…we are not! Make notes on your phone or take a picture of something you need to remember. It is not like we have to pay to develop our pictures any longer, so use your phone. Your memory may get you lost…your phone, a much smaller chance of that.\n14. Learn a Few Phrases/Words\nBefore going to a foreign country, I recommend you learn a few words/phrases of the local language. You will obviously not learn the language fluently, but it really makes a great impression on the locals when you greet them or say something in their language. People love it because usually we sound funny speaking another language, but it also shows a lot of respect and appreciation for their language and culture.\nLeave your opinions and stereotypes at home. Make an effort to really understand and absorb the foreign culture. Don’t expect everyone to speak English and understand what you want or need. Try not to frown or offend people if something does not go your way…that is just the nature of travel.\n15. Tip for Great Service\nIn the United States we are used to tipping for everything whether the service was exceptional or mediocre. In many cultures tipping is not a custom and you don’t have to tip, but if someone provides you with great service…please do tip. Even though not expected, people do appreciate it. In some countries people work an entire day for a few dollars, your tip can really make a difference in someone’s life. Research ahead of time what the tipping culture is at your travel destination(s) and follow it.\nThere are however cultures where tipping is offensive. For example, in Japan, workers are paid a fair salary and tipping is not necessary and, in some cases, considered offensive. In fact, if you gave someone a tip, they may refuse it. Don’t be offended, just accept it.\nWith all of this said, I hope you have a wonderful and extremely memorable trip and don’t be afraid to make it your own. Unless you are on a prearranged group tour, do what your heart desires. Don’t feel like you have to see something only because it was listed in a travel book. You know best what you enjoy, so seek out experiences that emulate and compliment your idea of fun. Remember to pack light, be prepared, be open to adventures, eat well and just have a great time! …and let technology lead the way…\n","permalink":"/blog/navigating-the-globe-15-essential-lessons-for-effortless-travel/","section":"blog","summary":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nEmbarking on a journey is more than just exploring new places; it’s about cultivating habits that enhance the overall experience.","title":"Navigating the Globe: 15 Essential Lessons for Effortless Travel"},{"content":"Few places in the world inspire so much awe, mystery and sense of adventure as Patagonia. Spanning a massive 402,734 square miles (1,043,076 square kilometers) across the countries of Chile and Argentina, Patagonia is covered mostly by steppe-like plains. The weather is unpredictable and harsh at times, but the feeling of being there at the edge of the Earth is truly unrivaled. Being in any part of Patagonia is so far removed from everyday life that it has been a hot spot for adventurers and thrill seekers for decades.\nPatagonia comes from the word patagón used by Magellan in 1520 to describe the native people of the region. The Europeans considered the indigenous population to be giants, some even describing them as 9 to 12 feet tall! Today, historians are pretty sure the locals were actually the Tehuelches.\nAs usual, we travelled with carry-on suitcases only. Less Luggage, more memories! Read my blog Packing Light for a Cold Weather Trip for some tips on visiting cold places with minimal amount of luggage.\nOur journey into Patagonia started with a red-eye flight from Easter Island, Chile. Due to weather, our flight from Easter Island was delayed and we almost missed our connecting flight in Santiago, Chile. Being experienced travelers however (travelling with carry-on luggage only), we made it from one plane to the next in under 15 minutes. We ran, but we made it. We arrived in Punta Arenas, Chile at 5:30 am and were greeted by the endless steppes and frigid weather of Patagonia.\nHigh Above the Clouds of Patagonia\nExhausted, but excited…we were ready to get going on this Patagonian adventure. And here is a list of activities we managed to experience in just a few days:\n1. Visit the Magellanic Penguins on Isla Magdalena: The hotel we stayed at in Punta Arenas did not have our room ready that early in the morning, so we spontaneously decided to go and visit the Magellanic Penguins near by. We went to a tour company and they didn’t take us because they were fully booked. We were kind of bummed out, but oh well, we moved on. We decided to go ahead and pay for our day tour for the following day to visit the King Penguins on Tierra Del Fuego. While at the second tour company, we mentioned to the travel agent there that we were disappointed to not see the Magellanic penguins, since all tour companies were fully booked. She proceeded to tell us, that you didn’t need a tour company to see them, you could just take the ferry on your own…what? Excellent! In a matter of minutes we garbed a cab and we were off to the ferry terminal.\nWaiting to board the ferry to Isla Magdalena\nIt was cold, windy and rainy, but we were very excited to get our tickets and impatiently waited to embark on our journey to Isla Magdalena. Once on the ferry, it took about 2 hours to get to the island. The ride was bumpy at times due to rough waters, but the view was also quite stunning when the seas were calm.\nOn the Ferry through the Strait of Magellan\nIsla Magdalena, nestled in the middle of the Strait of Magellan**,** is a hidden gem for penguin enthusiasts. As you set sail from the city of Punta Arenas, prepare for an awe-inspiring journey to a world where adorable Magellanic penguins roam freely. Here’s why visiting Isla Magdalena is an experience like no other. Isla Magdalena is a Penguin Paradise and boasts the largest colony of Magellanic Penguins in South America, with a staggering 120,000 penguins (that’s 60,000 pairs!). Watch them waddle, swim, and nest in their natural habitat—a heartwarming sight for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.\nThe Fascinating Inhabitants of Isla Magdalena\nThese cute, little creatures are about a foot tall and they are quite clumsy. They love digging in the dirt and fishing. You are not allowed to touch them, but you can see them up close since they run around everywhere. They did not seem afraid of people. Walking along the island’s boardwalks and paths, you’ll witness the penguins’ daily activities. From feeding to courting, and even caring for their fluffy chicks, it’s a chance to connect with these adorable birds on a personal level.\nThe Magellanic Penguins\nBeyond the penguins, Isla Magdalena offers rugged coastlines, pebble beaches, and breathtaking landscapes. Picture dramatic cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and a sense of serenity that comes from being surrounded by nature’s splendor.\nSo, hop aboard a boat, let the salty breeze guide you, and get ready to be whisked away to a world of waddling wonders and charming chaos. Isla Magdalena—the penguin paradise awaits!\n2. See the King Penguin colony on Tierra del Fuego, Chile: The next day we had booked a tour to see the second largest penguin species after the Emperor Penguin. Not too long ago this colony decided to return to Chilean Patagonia and they appear to be there to stay. Parque Pingüino Rey on Useless Bay, Tierra del Fuego is one of the few places in the world where you can easily see these majestic creatures. Getting there was quite a journey! Leaving Punta Areans, Chile early in the morning to take the ferry across the Strait of Magellan to Porvenir followed by a two hour drive across the Patagonian steppes. During our drive we encountered many of the locals alpacas.\nWildlife in Chilean Patagonia\nFinally, we arrived! Quite frigid temperatures and strong winds, but completely worth it .\nOnly separated from us by a small stream, these beautiful “Happy Feet” greeted us with their high pitched squawking sounds. The King Penguin (Aptenodytes patagonicus) is the second largest species of penguin, smaller but somewhat similar in appearance to the Emperor Penguin.\nThe King Penguin colony at Tierra Del Fuego\nThe King Penguin Colony\nWhile the adult King Penguins have beautiful black and white coats with yellow around the neck, the baby King Penguins are furry, brown and and not so well polished. We wished we could hug one, but of course that would be against all laws and accompanied by huge fines and imprisonment. When you encounter these elegant birds, just sit back and observe their synchronized waddling and hear their distinctive calls—it’s a royal experience in the heart of the wild! So, we just enjoyed the view!\nBaby King Penguin\n3. Spend some time in Puerto Natales, Chile: Previously just a fishing port, this colorful, little town in Southern Patagonia is now the gateway to some of the most iconic areas of Patagonia. Puerto Natales is now a popular hub for adventurers and thrill seekers from around the world. It offers amazing culinary options as well as boutique beer and fine wine tastings. Torres Del Paine National Park and the Ultima Esperanza are two of the most popular destinations in the area. From the stunning mountains and lakes to the incredible glaciers, you have access to all of it.\nPuerto Natales, Chile\n4. Experience the beauty of Torres Del Paine National Park: This iconic national park is famous for its stunning view of the Cuernos (the horns), which are the centerpiece of this impressive national park. These granite mountain peaks are shaped like horns and visible from most areas of the park and surrounding areas. Just 70 miles (112 km) from Puerto Natales, it is easily accessible by car. You can choose to spend one day touring the park or multiple days trekking this amazing natural wonder. Visiting the park will leave you with unforgettable memories of the majestic mountains, stunning blue glaciers, icebergs, crystal clear lakes, waterfalls and a wide array of wild animals. It lies in a transition area between the Magellanic sub-polar forest and the Patagonian steppes, thus offering a beautiful combination of both.\nThe Majestic Torres Del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia\nTorres del Paine National Park, nestled in the southern reaches of Chilean Patagonia, is a breathtaking wilderness where rugged mountains, glaciers, and pristine lakes converge. The Cordillera del Paine, with its iconic granite peaks, stands as the park’s centerpiece. Here, you’ll find a transition zone between the Magellanic subpolar forests and the vast Patagonian Steppes. The park’s dramatic landscapes include valleys, rivers, and glaciers, while well-known lakes like Grey, Pehoé, Nordenskiöld, and Sarmiento add to its allure. The distinctive three granite towers—Torre d’Agostini, Torre Central, and Torre Monzino—rise majestically above the landscape, joined by the Cuernos del Paine. Whether you’re a hiker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking solitude in nature, Torres del Paine promises an unforgettable adventure\nStunning waterfall at Torres Del Paine National Park, Chile\n5. Take a boat tour to Glacier Grey: While visiting Torres Del Paine National Park, we decided to take the opportunity to go and see a glacier for the first time in our lives. After a short hike through the forest and across a river…\nHiking through the park\n…we finally saw them…the icebergs…wow!\nThe floating icebergs at Torres Del Paine National Park in Chile\nThey were more impressive than what we could ever imagine. The deep blue color was surreal. The icebergs were enormous and just peacefully floated around the lake. The color of the water, as you may notice is grey, almost cloudy. That is due to the sediments from the eroding glacial rocks. The small particles make the water appear milky. Glacier Grey has so much sediment that there is hardly any life in its waters. The journey to the glacier began by embarking on an awesome red boat.\nGlacier Grey, a magnificent ice giant nestled within Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, is a sight to behold. What makes it truly remarkable is its massive ice field stretching over 28 km (17 miles) in length and its dazzling blue hues that contrast beautifully with the dark grey shades of the lake.\nOur boat to see Glacier Grey\nSlowly we made our way towards Glacier Grey, surrounded by giant icebergs and grand mountains. From far away it looked amazing, but the closer we got the more unbelievable the view became. At last, standing in front of the massive blue wall we realized just how insignificantly tiny we are as human beings compared to what mother nature has to offer. Absolutely breathtaking!\nGlacier Grey in Chilean Patagonia\n6. Visit the Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers: Seno Última Esperanza, (‘Last Hope Sound’) is an inlet, named in 1557 by Juan Ladrillero. He felt that in this direction was his last chance to reach the Strait of Magellan, however he reached a dead end at the glacier. This three hour boat journey from Puerto Natales takes you on a beautiful journey along fjords, waterfalls and occasional estancias (private landholdings, similar to a cattle ranch). Both glaciers are quite impressive, even though all we were able to see, is just a very small piece of the actual ice field.\nThe Balmaceda Glacier\nThe Serrano Glacier\n7. Have lunch at a Patagonian estancia: No journey to Patagonia is complete without visiting an estancia, which is similar to a cattle ranch. It is a large piece of land used by the owner live stock holding and some agriculture. Some of the estancias are set in the most beautiful locations, surrounded by pure nature. Picture rugged landscapes, windswept plains, and the iconic gauchos—the skilled horsemen who embody Patagonian tradition. Nowadays, many estancias welcome visitors, offering a taste of authentic gaucho life. Whether you’re riding through the Andean foothills, fishing in remote lakes, or simply savoring the raw beauty of the steppe, a stay at a Patagonian estancia promises an unforgettable adventure. We stopped at such a ranch and were welcomed by the owners with a delicious lunch. Our multi-course meal included some of the local specialties like lamb as wells other meats, poultry, vegetables, and of course local wine!. What a splendid day!\nA typical Patagonian Estancia\n8. Enjoy the view of the Andes from a Jacuzzi: After a long and “tough” day of being outside sightseeing out-of-this-world glaciers in the cold and wintry weather it is only fair to come back into town and relax. There is nothing like sitting in a warm Jacuzzi by a warm firewood stove, overlooking the mind-blowing view of the Patagonian snow capped mountains. Not every hotel has that amenity, but staying at the Hotel Indigo Patagonia, we did and we felt so lucky to have had the opportunity to experience it.\nView of the Andes from Hotel Indigo in Puerto Natales, Chile\nTake the bus to El Calafate, Argentina: Now that you have seen parts of Chilean Patagonia, it is time to check out Argentinian Patagonia. There are daily buses from Puerto Natales, Chile to El Calafate, Argentina. The bus ride is about 4-5 hours (depending on how long it takes to cross the border between Chile and Argentina). El Calafate is a beautiful town in the province of Santa Cruz and is mainly known for being the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. We truly enjoyed the small town and we ended up at some wonderful local restaurants where we tried Patagonian wine for the first time. Cheers! We also found a local empanada shop and as expected, ate excessive amounts of empanadas! Don’t judge, you would have done the same thing! El Calafate, Argentina\nEl Calafate, Argentina\n10. Trek the Perito Moreno Glacier: Perito Moreno is probably the reason you came here. It is one of 48 glaciers fed by the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. It is a massive 97 sq mile (250 sq km) ice formation. While most glaciers in the world are retreating, Perito Moreno is actually growing and the reason for that is hotly debated. Being one of the largest, it is also one of the easiest accessible glaciers in the world. Located less than two hours by bus from El Calafate, right below the visitor center, you will be captivated by the pure mass of ice.\nA small piece of the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina\nAre you feeling adventurous? Fantastic! Take a mini trekking tour on the glacier. We did it not knowing what to expect and we were enthralled. After taking a short boat ride across the inlet and a short hike to the get close to the glacier, it was time to get ready.\nStanding at the edge of Perito Moreno Glacier in Patagonia\nFirst, we had to put on crampons over our boots, so we could climb up the ice. Safety first! Going through the dirt with those was not easy, but we were thankful to have them once we got on the ice.\nGot our crampons on\nInitially slow, but then we got the hang of it and suddenly we found ourselves looking at this…truly heart-stopping. Listen closely! As you trek, listen to the glacier’s creaks and groans, feel the chill of the ice beneath your boots, and marvel at the deep blue crevices. The panoramic views of the glacier meeting Lake Argentino are simply breathtaking. You are about to witness one of the most exhilarating sights on earth, the breaking off of an iceberg from the glacier, while graciously plunging into the water. Trust us! It is unlike anything you have ever seen and heard before. It will leave you wanting more!\nAtop the Perito Moreno Glacier\nAnd it only got more fascinating from here. The blues got bluer and the ice peaks more astonishing. To the human eye, ancient glacial ice acts like a filter. It absorbs red and yellow light and reflects blue light. This is what creates the beautiful blue hues of a glacier. Why does snow appear white then? Because the ice it is full of air bubbles.\nLooking down the crevice of the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentinian Patagonia\nAt the end of the tour, we were surprised with a glass of local whiskey chilled with glacier ice…literally, our tour guide chopped up some ice from the glacier, put it in our whiskey glasses and poured us a drink. And of course, as a real Argentinian would do, we had to have alfajores (soft, delicate cookie from South America often filled and covered with chocolate or caramel) with the whiskey! Sweet! We don’t usually drink whiskey, but this definitely hit the right spot!\nSome local whiskey with glacier ice. Cheers!\nAnd here is what we take away from our Patagonian experience, it is indeed a one-of-a-kind place. It is mind-blowing in so many ways, from the natural beauty of the area to the local wild life, it is nothing short of astounding. In everyday life, we have to go to the zoo to see what lives there naturally and believe us, there is nothing more beautiful than to see animals in their natural habitat. Unlike visiting a large metropolitan city where we are fascinated by architectural man-made structures, Patagonia leaves us astounded by mother nature’s natural beauty. Being there, you become a witness to a process that has been going on for millions of years and you get to take home a memory that has been in the making for eons. If you have ever debated whether to visit Patagonia or not, just go! There is no question!\n","permalink":"/blog/patagonia-unveiled-a-journey-into-the-untamed-beauty-of-the-southern-wilderness/","section":"blog","summary":"Few places in the world inspire so much awe, mystery and sense of adventure as Patagonia. Spanning a massive 402,734 square miles (1,043,076 square kilometers) across the countries of Chile and Argentina, Patagonia is covered mostly by steppe-like plains. The weather is unpredictable and harsh at times, but the feeling of being there at the edge of the Earth is truly unrivaled. Being in any part of Patagonia is so far removed from everyday life that it has been a hot spot for adventurers and thrill seekers for decades.","title":"Patagonia Unveiled: A Journey Into the Untamed Beauty of the Southern Wilderness"},{"content":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nAnd then there is the question about baby or toddler gear! Phew! That’s a big one.\nTraveling with babies or toddlers can be an adventure in itself, and having the right gear can make all the difference. From compact strollers to ingenious sleep solutions toddler travel gear has come a long way in ensuring a smoother journey for both parents and little ones. Below is a list of 11 items that we have used (and some we still use) from baby through toddlerhood.\nOne essential item for any toddler travel expedition is a lightweight and easily foldable stroller. Opting for a compact stroller not only saves precious space but also makes navigating busy airports or crowded tourist attractions a breeze. Look for models with adjustable canopies to shield your little explorer from the sun, and make sure it has a comfortable recline for those on-the-go naps.\nWith the Doona Stroller in Paris, France\nOn the question about baby/toddler sleep, we have much thanks to give to some great minds out there. From portable pack-n-plays to blackout canopies, today we have a number of ways to provide a safe and comfortable space for our little ones to snooze.\nIn addition to the stroller and sleep solutions, a reliable travel-friendly car seat is crucial for ensuring your toddler’s safety. Many brands offer compact and FAA-approved car seats suitable for air travel, allowing for a seamless transition from the car to the plane. Until your child reaches the age of two at least, a car seat is a must for safety and comfort. Once your child reaches the age of two your options for car safety become more flexible. See our list below for a lightweight solution to car seats.\nFor parents who prefer to carry their babies, investing in a lightweight baby carrier is a must. Ergonomic designs that evenly distribute weight make for a comfortable experience, whether you’re exploring a city or hitting the hiking trails. Look for carriers that offer multiple carrying positions to accommodate your toddler’s preferences and are ergonomic for safety and comfort.\nSnacking on the go is simplified with lightweight snack containers and water cups. Compact and spill-proof, these containers keep snacks fresh and accessible, ensuring that hungry little travelers are satisfied without creating a mess. Combine these with a lightweight backpack diaper bag, and you’ve got a travel arsenal that won’t weigh you down.\nLastly, don’t forget to pack a versatile diaper bag with ample storage and easy access pockets. A well-organized diaper bag can be a lifesaver, providing quick access to diapers, wipes, and changing essentials during pit stops or mid-flight diaper emergencies. I recommend picking a diaper bag that can double as your purse and or backpack. This will maximize your luggage space and leave your hands free to attend to more important things like taking photos of your vacation experience.\nThe baby is packed, we are ready to go!\nInvesting in toddler travel gear that combines functionality with convenience can turn your family vacation into a stress-free and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.\nFor each stage of our child’s age we have needed different types of gear. Below is a list of eleven items that we have successfully used on our trips. After your child outgrows any of your gear feel free to sell it. That is what I do and I feel great about having another family make great use of it.\nDoona Stroller - The Doona Stroller is a revolutionary and versatile travel solution for parents on the go. Combining the functionality of a car seat and a stroller into a single, compact design, the Doona Stroller simplifies the challenges of transitioning from car to strolling effortlessly. With its easy one-touch operation, the stroller unfolds or transforms into a car seat within seconds, making it a time-saving and convenient choice for busy parents. Safety is a top priority, as the Doona Stroller meets stringent safety standards, providing peace of mind while ensuring comfort for your little one during every journey. Its compact size and innovative design make it an excellent choice for urban living and frequent travelers who seek both convenience and safety in their baby gear. Depending on the child the Doona Stroller can be used anywhere between birth and approximately two years of age.\ngb Pockit+ All City Travel Stroller - The gb Pockit All-City Travel Stroller is a stylish and practical companion for modern parents navigating urban life. Boasting a sleek design and lightweight frame, this stroller effortlessly combines fashion with functionality. Its compact fold and one-hand operation make it an ideal choice for on-the-go families, easily fitting into tight spaces and facilitating smooth transitions between different modes of transportation. The stroller features a comfortable seat with multiple recline positions, ensuring your child’s comfort during city adventures. With its agile maneuverability and all-wheel suspension, the GB Pocket All-City Travel Stroller provides a smooth ride, while the large canopy offers excellent sun protection. This stroller is a smart choice for parents who value convenience, style, and adaptability in their daily travels. This stroller is ultra-compact and folds small enough to fit in the airplane overhead compartment and can be used until the child is about 55lbs.\ngb Ultra-Compact Stroller\nSlumberPod - The Slumber Pod is a thoughtful solution for parents seeking a portable and private sleep space for their little ones. Designed with travel and convenience in mind, this pod creates a cozy and darkened environment, promoting better sleep for babies and toddlers. With its easy setup and compact design, the Slumber Pod fits over most playards and portable cribs, providing a familiar and secure sleeping environment wherever you go. The pod is not only lightweight and breathable but also features a convenient peek-a-boo window for parents to check on their sleeping child without disturbing their rest. Whether on family vacations or overnight stays, the Slumber Pod is a valuable accessory for parents aiming to ensure restful sleep for their little travelers. The SlumberPod can be used for any age as long is it fits over the space where the child will be sleeping.\nJetKids by Stokke - JetKids by Stokke is a game-changer for families on the move, offering innovative and versatile travel solutions for children. Their renowned BedBox is not just a suitcase; it’s a multifunctional piece that transforms into a comfortable airplane bed when needed. Practical and stylish, the BedBox makes air travel more enjoyable for both parents and kids. With its ride-on functionality and ample storage space, it doubles as a fun travel companion. JetKids’ commitment to quality and functionality makes their products a must-have for families seeking a seamless travel experience, combining practicality with a touch of adventure. We use the JetKids suitcase space for any in-flight entertainment, snacks, books, etc. needed for our child. If not used as a bed, it fits under the seat in front of you. Recommended for children that can sit up on their own and stay seated while holding on the strap, usually after the age of 2 closer to 3.\nShrunks Inflatable Bed Rails - Shrunks Inflatable Bed Rails offer a portable and secure solution for parents concerned about their child’s safety during sleep transitions. Designed with convenience in mind, these bed rails easily inflate and deflate, making them perfect for travel or unexpected sleepovers. The Shrunks Inflatable Bed Rails’ compact size when deflated makes them easy to pack, fitting into a suitcase or backpack. Once inflated, they provide a reliable barrier to prevent children from rolling out of bed, offering peace of mind for parents while maintaining the child’s comfort. The durable and puncture-resistant material ensures longevity, making Shrunks Inflatable Bed Rails a practical choice for families seeking a portable and effective safety solution. We started using these once our daughter was about 30 months old and have used them of various beds. They are very easy to use.\nGimars Portable Potty Seat - Gimars Portable Potty Seat is a convenient and hygienic solution for parents navigating potty training on the go. Its foldable design and compact size make it easy to carry in a diaper bag or tote, ensuring that you’re prepared for unexpected restroom stops. The seat is lined with soft, cushioned material for comfort, and the non-slip silicone pads provide stability on various toilet seat shapes. Gimars Portable Potty Seat is a practical accessory for families, offering a familiar and secure potty-training experience wherever you and your little one may be. A potty seat becomes a necessity once your child is potty trained.\nRide Safer Travel Vest - The Ride Safer Travel Vest is a innovative and safety-focused alternative to traditional booster seats for older children. This vest, designed for children over 3 years and at least 30 pounds, provides a secure and comfortable way to ensure proper seat belt positioning. Its lightweight and portable design make it an excellent choice for travel, rideshares, or situations where a standard booster seat might be impractical. The Ride Safer Travel Vest has been engineered to meet rigorous safety standards, offering parents a reliable and flexible solution for keeping their child safe in various vehicles without the bulk of a traditional car seat. This vest folds small enough to put in the pocket of your backpack or carry-on luggage. It has been an indispensable travel accessory especially for getting to/from the airport, taxis or day tours while abroad.\nErgobaby Omni 360 All-Position Baby Carrier - The Ergobaby Omni 360 All-Position Baby Carrier is a versatile and comfortable choice for parents looking to carry their little ones in various positions. Designed with ergonomic support in mind, this carrier allows for front-facing, hip, and back carrying, providing flexibility as your baby grows. With its adjustable features, including padded shoulder straps and a lumbar support waistbelt, the Ergobaby Omni 360 ensures a comfortable fit for both the parent and the baby. The all-in-one design eliminates the need for an infant insert and accommodates babies from newborn to toddler (Approx. 7lbs-45lbs). Whether exploring the outdoors or navigating daily tasks, the Ergobaby Omni 360 offers a secure and cozy way to keep your baby close while maintaining freedom of movement for both parent and child.\nSnooze Go - Sound machine - The Snooze Go Sound Machine is a compact and portable sleep aid designed to create a soothing environment for restful sleep. Packed with a variety of calming sounds, including white noise, this sound machine helps drown out external disturbances and provides a consistent background noise for better sleep quality. Its small size and rechargeable battery make it ideal for on-the-go use, fitting easily into a diaper bag or travel luggage. The Snooze Go Sound Machine is a valuable companion for parents seeking to establish a comforting sleep routine for their little ones, whether at home or away. The Bluetooth version allows for you to connect with your phone and use as a music speaker as well.\neufy Security Baby Monitor - The eufy Security Baby Monitor is a reliable and user-friendly tool for keeping a close eye on your little one. With its high-resolution camera and 5-inch display, this monitor provides crystal-clear visuals of your baby’s activities. Equipped with advanced features such as pan and tilt capabilities, as well as infrared night vision, it ensures a comprehensive view in any lighting condition. The monitor also includes two-way audio, allowing you to soothe your baby or communicate from a distance. With a long-lasting battery life and a range of up to 1,000 feet, the Eufy Security Baby Monitor offers both flexibility and peace of mind for parents, making it a valuable addition to any nursery. No app needed!\nMunchkin Snack cup \u0026 360 Sippy Cup - The Munchkin Snack Cup and 360 Sippy Cup are practical and spill-proof solutions designed to make feeding and drinking on-the-go hassle-free for both parents and toddlers. The Munchkin Snack Cup features a secure twist-on lid with soft flaps, allowing little hands to easily access snacks without creating a mess. Its portable size makes it convenient for outings. The Munchkin 360 Sippy Cup, on the other hand, provides a spill-proof drinking experience from any edge, promoting independence for toddlers transitioning to regular cups. The innovative and functional designs, makes both products a valuable addition to the arsenal of parenting essentials for busy families while traveling or at home.\nWhen selecting an item, I always have two criteria.\nIt has to be light weight\nIt has to fit in a carry-on suitcase\nNavigating the world with a toddler in tow becomes a whole lot easier when armed with lightweight travel gear designed to keep both parents and little ones comfortable on the go.\nIn the realm of lightweight toddler gear, the focus is on functionality without compromise. Embracing these essentials can transform your family adventures into seamless, enjoyable experiences for both parents and toddlers alike. If you have any other travel product suggestions that you can recommend, please post in the comments sections. I welcome any additional recommendations.\nHappy Travels!\n","permalink":"/blog/the-ultimate-handbook-lightweight-and-carry-on-travel-gear-essentials-for-babies-and-toddlers/","section":"blog","summary":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nAnd then there is the question about baby or toddler gear! Phew! That’s a big one.","title":"The Ultimate Handbook: Lightweight and Carry-On Travel Gear Essentials for Babies and Toddlers"},{"content":"If you are like us, we love traveling. Before having children many people choose to travel and explore the world for all of its beauty and excitement. New countries, new cultures, new food, new people, new adventures…all of the reasons we love traveling. I remember the time when we would just pick a place, buy the tickets/hotels etc. and off we went. But what about after having kids? Is it even possible to embark on a journey like before? The answer is…probably. It will most likely take a little more planning, a little bit more luggage but that’s it. It is not impossible, if anything it is encouraged.\nOf course, the age of the child or children may play a role in the type of trip you want to go on, but it should in no way deter you from taking the trip. Sometimes I meet people who give up on travel once they have kids. But just for a moment think of all the precious quality time you are giving up on to spend as a family. Also think of the learning opportunities you can offer your child when you bring them to a new place. They get to try new food, see exciting new places and meet wonderful new people. Of course staying home is safe and familiar, but you are the person you are today because of the experiences you had earlier in life. To me traveling builds character, it challenges your problem solving skills and it takes us out of our comfort zone. All of the above and more are traits that a successful adult possesses. Wouldn’t you want to instill those same qualities in your child? Kids are like sponges, they absorb whatever information you present them with. You may actually be surprised by how adaptable and comfortable your child may be while abroad.\nThere are a number of reasons people choose not to travel after having kids many of which are easily solved with some planning.\nWhen you think of traveling with kids you are probably imagining the insane amount of stuff you have to bring with you for the trip. But let me assure you that it is not as bad as you may think. Sure, at each stage a child requires different types of gear, but you can keep it pretty manageable if you really think through what you actually need and what is just nice to have.\nHere are a few things you will definitely need, but don’t have to bring with you:\nDiapers When traveling with an infant or toddler, you will probably need diapers. They are light, but very bulky, so instead of bringing a suitcase full of diapers, just being what you need for the flight(s) to your destination. Once you arrive, chances are there will be a store nearby where you can buy as many as you need for the duration of your stay. There are very few locations that may not have diapers available for sale, so maybe skip those until your child is out of diapers.\n2. Stroller\nSure, you have your favorite stroller at home and it is essential for you to get around easily, but it is not always convenient to lug a stroller around airports. Most airlines will allow you to gate check a stroller for free, but maybe you don’t feel like carrying a bulky bag around. Fair enough, you don’t have to. If your child is able to walk, you can go on vacation stroller-free. Once at your destination, you may be able to rent a stroller for the duration of your stay. Alternatively, while vacationing in Edinburgh, Scotland in 2023 we opted to purchase an inexpensive stroller from a mall in the city. It was actually cheaper than renting it. For 65 British Pounds ($83) we purchased a brand new stroller. You can take the stroller back home to keep, sell. You can also donate or give away the stroller at the end of your trip abroad. Either way, it eliminates the need to carry a stroller one or both ways.\n3. Toys\nWhat we have found out while traveling with a child is that you don’t actually have to bring that many toys. Kids are amazing at finding interest in just about anything…from a simple napkin to an empty plastic cup/bottle, a piece of paper and a pen or a magazine. We only bring two toys/lovey/games for the flight(s) and one favorite book for the plane and/or night stories. Alternatively you can just buy a kid’s book at your destination. Don’t feel obligated to bring every item that they like to play with. You may be surprised by how little your child actually needs from home.\n4. Food\nSure, if you are traveling with an infant, you will probably need formula (unless you are breastfeeding). Once children get to an age where they can eat solids, don’t bring a suitcase full of food. We bring enough snacks for the flight(s) and that’s about it. Most destinations have grocery stores that sell baby food and at restaurants you can order items like scrambled eggs, steamed veggies or fruits and mash them for your baby. One food that is always a crowd favorite and is available just about anywhere in the world is…get ready for it….French fries! That’s right, my child can live on French fries. Of course, the thought of her eating French fries every day drives me a little crazy and makes me cringe, but hey, when on vacation I will allow for some leniency. Phew!\n5. Crib\nIt is true that some children won’t sleep anywhere other than their own bed and if that is the case, feel free to bring your own pack-n-play. However most children are okay with sleeping just about anywhere as long as there are a couple of reminders of home like a lovey, favorite blanket or a sound machine. When booking a hotel or Airbnb make sure to inquire about a crib. Even though not guaranteed, so far we haven’t been left without one. Hotels and hosts will do their best to accommodate the request. They do want you to be happy and comfortable. Be sure to read the amenities section before booking your room to verify that a crib is in fact an option. There are some resorts and rental homes that do not offer cribs as an amenity.\nWith all of the above in mind you will need to bring some baby gear. Read my blog The Ultimate Handbook: Lightweight and Carry-On Travel Gear Essentials for Babies and Toddlers for some examples of items that have been very helpful and I have enjoyed using during our adventures. All of the items you will read about are light weight and fit in your carry-on luggage with the exception of the Doona Stroller.\nTraveling with children, despite its reputation for being challenging, can surprisingly offer moments of ease and enchantment. Witnessing the world through their curious eyes adds a magical layer to the adventure. Many destinations now cater specifically to families, providing amenities like play areas, kid-friendly menus, and interactive attractions. Advances in travel gear, from compact strollers to ingenious entertainment devices, have lightened the load for parents. With careful planning and a flexible mindset, navigating airports and accommodations can become smoother, turning family travel into a delightful bonding experience that creates lasting memories for both parents and children alike.\n","permalink":"/blog/mastering-the-art-of-traveling-light-with-young-children/","section":"blog","summary":"If you are like us, we love traveling. Before having children many people choose to travel and explore the world for all of its beauty and excitement. New countries, new cultures, new food, new people, new adventures…all of the reasons we love traveling. I remember the time when we would just pick a place, buy the tickets/hotels etc. and off we went. But what about after having kids? Is it even possible to embark on a journey like before?","title":"Mastering the Art of Traveling Light with Young Children"},{"content":"If you have any questions, feedback, or business inquiries, feel free to reach out using the secure form below.\nNote: Please allow 24-48 hours for a response.\n","permalink":"/contact/","section":"","summary":"If you have any questions, feedback, or business inquiries, feel free to reach out using the secure form below.\nNote: Please allow 24-48 hours for a response.","title":"Contact"},{"content":"We are two avid travelers who are willing to go anywhere and try anything. We travel not just for fun but we travel to live. During our adventures to 55+ (…and counting) countries, we have discovered many items that not only make the travel experience more fun, but are also extremely helpful. Our goal is to share those with you and help you achieve more comfort when on the road.\nWhile globetrotting, we have discovered that the adventure in travel is not just the destination itself, but the entire journey. We place high value on comfort and ease of travel. We have made it a point to travel with carry-on luggage only…we leave the giant suitcases at home! Being a minimalist when travelling is not only less burdensome, but also so much cheaper…and you don’t have to worry about lost bags! Our trips range between a long weekend and 2-week journeys. We spend on average between 2-4 days in each location. This gives us an opportunity to see various places for a quick overview and if we like it, we will go back for a longer trip.\nOur site is a work in progress, we continue to look for items and ways to improve our and your travel experiences. Keep checking for updates on products and travel suggestions.\nNo journey is too long or too short to insist on comfort.\nBeing Silly on the beach in Barbados\n","permalink":"/about-us/","section":"","summary":"We are two avid travelers who are willing to go anywhere and try anything. We travel not just for fun but we travel to live. During our adventures to 55+ (…and counting) countries, we have discovered many items that not only make the travel experience more fun, but are also extremely helpful. Our goal is to share those with you and help you achieve more comfort when on the road.","title":"About Us"},{"content":"If you have stumbled upon this post, it is probably because you were curious on how to eliminate unnecessary luggage when travelling, especially to a cold destination. Packing light for a cold destination is a little more challenging that a warm one, but not impossible. There is nothing worse than traveling to a destination covered with ice or snow and realizing that now you have to carry a huge suitcase through the frosty scenery. Embrace the opportunity to experience the beauty of winter and cold weather destinations without the hassle of heavy bags and bulky suitcases. When travelling to a cold location you will need layers more so than thick sweaters. We are confident that you can fit in a carry-on suitcase with a little extra planning.\nFive Packing Rules for a Cold Destination 1. Pick the right fabrics to wear - When traveling to a cold location, it’s essential to choose fabrics that provide insulation and warmth. Opt for materials like wool, which is known for its excellent insulation properties and moisture-wicking ability. Merino wool, in particular, is lightweight, breathable, and odor-resistant, making it ideal for travel. Additionally, fleece is a popular choice for its warmth and softness. Insulating fabrics like down or synthetic down can be great for outer layers, providing excellent warmth without adding bulk. Layering with thermal fabrics such as polyester or nylon can help trap heat close to the body. Remember to consider versatility and packability when selecting fabrics for cold weather travel, ensuring you stay warm and comfortable throughout your journey. 2. Pack layers not bulky items - When heading to a cold destination, dressing in layers is key for effective temperature control. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. Merino wool or synthetic fabrics work well for this purpose. The middle layer should provide insulation; consider materials like fleece or down to trap and retain heat. For the outer layer, choose a waterproof and windproof jacket to shield against the elements. Additionally, wear thermal or insulated pants as the bottom layer, and make sure your footwear is waterproof and insulated. Don’t forget accessories like a hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect extremities. Adjust the layers based on the specific conditions and activities, allowing you to add or remove clothing as needed to stay comfortable in varying temperatures. 3. Choose your shoes carefully - For a cold destination, it is crucial to choose the right footwear to keep your feet warm and dry. Opt for insulated and waterproof boots or shoes. Ensure your boots/shoes have good traction suitable for the activity your planning on undertaking. Remember to wear moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry. If boots are needed, we recommend you wear the boots on the plane and your light weight shoes packed in your luggage. If you need to pack your boots, make sure you stuff them with all of your smaller items like socks, shirts, thermal underwear, etc. 4. Pick clothes to mix and match - Mixing and matching cold weather clothes allows for versatile and stylish outfits while ensuring practicality in changing temperatures. Start with a neutral base, such as black or gray pants, and pair them with various tops in different textures and weights. Layering is key – experiment with combining a lightweight sweater over a thermal shirt or a puffer vest with a long-sleeve tee. Mixing fabrics like wool, fleece, and down adds visual interest while providing varying degrees of insulation. Don’t forget to accessorize with scarves, hats, and gloves to enhance both style and warmth. By strategically combining different pieces, you can create a winter wardrobe that is not only functional but also reflects your personal style, allowing you to adapt to diverse cold weather conditions with ease. By mixing and matching you can create a number of outfits with just a few pieces of clothing. 5. Wear the bulkiest items - Wearing bulky winter clothes on the plane can be a practical choice, especially when traveling to a cold destination. Opting for your bulkier items, such as a winter coat, boots or vests allows you to save space in your luggage while staying cozy during the flight. Layering is key, as planes can have varying temperatures, and shedding or adding layers becomes more convenient. Consider wearing your heaviest items during boarding and takeoff, and then adjust based on the cabin temperature. This not only maximizes luggage space but also ensures you arrive at your cold destination well-prepared for the chilly weather, seamlessly transitioning from the plane to the colder outdoor environment. Standing at the edge of Perito Moreno Glacier in Patagonia\nSample Packing List for Cold Weather The following is a sample packing list for a 7-day trip to a cold destination. Applying the above mentioned rules should allow you to fit in a carry-on suitcase. If your trip is shorter than 7 days, you can take fewer items, if your trip is longer than 7 days, you shouldn’t need to bring any extra clothes, you will just need to do laundry throughout your trip. Also keep in mind that this list includes the items that you will be wearing on the day of travel.\nPants 3 Thermal Long-Sleeve Base Layer Shirts 2 Thermal Long Underwear/Leggings 2 Thin Merino Wool Seaters 3 Socks/Thermal Socks 4 Down/Fleece Jacket/Vest 2 Windbreaker Jacket 1 Pajamas 1 Lightweight Wool Scarf 1 Lightweight Wool Hat 1 Waterproof Gloves (pair) 1 Waterproof Boots/Shoes 2 Regular Underwear 4 Bras/t-shirts 2 7-Day Cold Weather Packing List\nTraveling to a cold destination with carry-on luggage requires strategic packing for both efficiency and comfort. Choose versatile clothing items that can be easily mixed and matched. Focus on layering, incorporating thermal fabrics and insulation for warmth. Wear your bulkier items, like a winter coat and boots, on the plane to save space in your carry-on. Opt for compact and lightweight accessories, such as a foldable hat and gloves. Utilize compression packing cubes to maximize space and keep belongings organized. Ensure your carry-on includes essentials like travel-sized toiletries, a compact umbrella, and a power bank. By prioritizing multifunctional clothing and smart packing techniques, you can navigate a cold destination with ease using just your carry-on luggage.\n","permalink":"/blog/packing-light-for-a-cold-weather-trip/","section":"blog","summary":"If you have stumbled upon this post, it is probably because you were curious on how to eliminate unnecessary luggage when travelling, especially to a cold destination. Packing light for a cold destination is a little more challenging that a warm one, but not impossible. There is nothing worse than traveling to a destination covered with ice or snow and realizing that now you have to carry a huge suitcase through the frosty scenery.","title":"Packing Light for a Cold Weather Trip"},{"content":"Alaska, the 49th State of the United States…the frozen tundra as referred to by many. The name is in fact accurate…parts of Alaska have a subsurface layer called permafrost. That means that the ground remains frozen throughout the year. Even with temperatures swinging widely between a hot 98 F (37 C) in the Summer and freezing -80 F (-62 C) in the winter this subsurface layer remains frozen.\nAlaska is also home to the tallest mountain peak in the United States, Mt Denali standing tall at 20,310 ft (6190 m) in the middle of Denali National Park. The park encompasses 6 million acres of Alaska’s interior wilderness and is home to animals such as wolves, grizzle bears, moose, caribou, etc. Surrounding the majestic mountains at Denali National Park are wild tundras, endless spruce forests, crystal clear lakes and breathtaking glaciers. Hiking, one of the most popular activities at Denali National Park is a superb experience no matter the season. The stunning views of the surrounding mountains are unbeatable. The majority of the year the park is covered with snow and thus difficult or impossible to enter by car. At the end of April the snow starts to melt and by May the tourist season begins lasting until about the end of September before it is covered with snow again. Due to accessibility issues during the winter the park is patrolled by the park rangers and their associates, the amazing sled dogs. If you have a chance to visit them, please do! One of our favorite experiences was hearing the sled dogs howl as a group…Incredible! Here is a link to our Facebook page to hear the symphony! The truth is Alaska is wild, the weather can be unpredictable and you may encounter a moose or a bear while exploring, but Alaska is also magnificent and captivating. Alaska is also home to some of the most amazing places in the world to see the breathtaking and often elusive Aurora Borealis also known as the Northern Lights. People from around the world have made it a profession to chase and try to capture the beauty and elegance of the dancing night sky lights. What is the Aurora Borealis? In simple terms, it is a natural phenomenon generated when electrically charged particles emitted from the Sun’s atmosphere causing a solar wind to collide with the Earth’s atmosphere. Depending on the type of atmospheric gases present at the collision time the colors of the Aurora can vary dramatically. The most commonly seen colors are the yellow-green streaks of light caused by oxygen molecules in the Earth’s atmospheric layer. The range of colors can progress to reg, pink, blue or purple. It is hard to explain the beauty and splendor of the dancing lights in the night sky. The Aurora Borealis is unpredictable so there is no guarantee at any point that you will see it but it is worth trying. And when you do see them…they do in fact take your breath away. We witness many of mother nature’s magnificent works of art such as sunrises, sunsets, rainbows, stormy skies, majestic mountains and cascading waterfalls, but for the most part you are guaranteed to see any of those at one point in your life… The Northern Lights require that you do some research and planning…and with a little bit of luck you may just see them. The Aurora Borealis is visible from mid September until about the second half of April. The truth is the Aurora happens throughout the year, day and night, however it is only visible in the dark. The reason September-April is Aurora viewing season is because of the availability and length of dark nights. So plan your trip during those months. And here is my best piece of advice (speaking from experience) don’t be discouraged by unfavorable weather conditions. The weather changes quite rapidly in the higher latitudes, so stay positive and optimistic about seeing the Northern Lights. Here is what happened to us…the day of our tour the weather was terrible! The sky was overcast with dense clouds and we even got some snow and later rain. All of the people from our original tour canceled the night excursion because their expectation to see the Northern Lights was low. We decided to go anyway, we didn’t want to sit around the hotel. The tour company told us that the weather may change at any time and we really only need about 15 min of clearing to see them. So at 8:45 pm we were picked up and driven about 90 min outside of Fairbanks to a cozy log cabin in the woods (known as Joy, Alaska). We checked and double checked the night-sky time and time again and finally at 1:30 am we saw this… Later that same night we came across these… Lesson learned, if you are already there, take every chance you have to see them. It may be a wasted night if you didn’t see them, but it is far better than a missed opportunity to witness this unbelievable and unpredictable light show! Seeing the Aurora Borealis is one thing, capturing a photo of it is a completely different thing. Before we went I read online that we may be able to capture them with our phone camera…I was not able to do so, but maybe you can figure it out. Your best bet is to use a DSLR or a GoPro in night time-lapse mode. For both a tripod is a must given that the average exposure length is around 30 sec (meaning you should not move the camera for that long). So be prepared! Here are the settings that we used with our Go Pro Hero 5: Set camera to Night Lapse mode and then adjust the following settings\nProtune - ON Shutter - 30 sec White Balance - 3000 K ISO Limit - 800 Sharpness - High Interval - Continuous Feel free to test and experiment with the settings. Besides Alaska the Aurora Borealis can be witnessed in parts of the higher, northern latitudes of Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia and occasionally Scotland and Denmark. While in Alaska chasing the Northern Lights in the winter or admiring its national parks in the Summer, take a day to visit the Arctic Circle. Alaska is the only state in the United States that reaches all the way to the Arctic Circle. The Arctic Circle is an imaginary line defined in numerous ways one being the latitude above which the sun does not set on the Summer Solstice and does not rise on the Winter Solstice. Many companies offer flying or driving day tours. On the day that we were supposed to fly to the Arctic Circle the weather was very bad and we could not fly into Coldfoot, Alaska. Instead our tour company took us to the picturesque little village of Battles, Alaska. Initially not sure what to expect we were pleasantly surprised by the peace and beauty of this small town. During the winter it is only accessible by plane or snowmobile. With a population of only 63 people it made for a perfect backdrop for some amazing pictures. White, untouched, fluffy snow covered the entire town including the airport runway. Bucket list visit to the Arctic Circle…check! Alaska is also home to the famous Trans-Alaska Pipeline. It runs an astounding 800 miles (1287 km) from the Prudhoe Bay oil fields in Northern Alaska to Valdez, Alaska in the South. The 48 inch (122 cm) in diameter pipeline can transport over 2 million barrels of crude oil per day. The pipeline is visible along some of Alaska’s major highways and easily accessible to view. Even if you are not interested in oil and pipes, it is still a fascinating site to see. Another great activity close to Fairbanks, Alaska are the Chena Hot Springs. Just about one hour drive from the city is located the Chena Hot Springs Resort. You do not need to be a guest at the resort to visit the hot springs. Bring your bathing suit and plunge into the steaming pool of natural hot water. The feeling is wonderful especially if it is cold outside! While at Chena Hot Springs take the opportunity to visit the ice museum onsite and savor a glass of apple martini served in a glass made of ice. Cheers! Chena Hot Springs is also a prime location to see the Aurora Borealis. It’s remote location away from city lights is ideal for viewing the lights. Here is what we experienced while visiting… [caption id=“attachment_3852” width=“4000”] DCIM102GOPROG0222984.JPG[/caption] So put on your thermals, warm boots and adventure hat and experience Alaska for what it is…wild beauty and unspoiled nature! And in true Alaska fashion once on the plane leaving Fairbanks we were sent off on our way with a magnificent view of Denali National Park. ","permalink":"/blog/alaska-the-magnificent-and-captivating-spirit-of-the-frozen-tundra/","section":"blog","summary":"Alaska, the 49th State of the United States…the frozen tundra as referred to by many. The name is in fact accurate…parts of Alaska have a subsurface layer called permafrost. That means that the ground remains frozen throughout the year. Even with temperatures swinging widely between a hot 98 F (37 C) in the Summer and freezing -80 F (-62 C) in the winter this subsurface layer remains frozen.\nAlaska is also home to the tallest mountain peak in the United States, Mt Denali standing tall at 20,310 ft (6190 m) in the middle of Denali National Park.","title":"Alaska, the magnificent and captivating spirit of the frozen tundra"},{"content":"Considered one of the cutest mammals in the world the Giant Panda is unfortunately also one of the most endangered species in the world. Naturally found in the dense bamboo forests of southwest China, Pandas have become a primary subject of China’s community for research and conservation. China is home to a number of research bases that have made it their goal to study and learn about the adorable creatures. Money and effort goes toward helping the Panda population grow and adapt to their natural environment. Pandas in captivity live a longer life than Pandas in the wild, however China believes that it is necessary to allow the animals to live in their natural habitat. Pandas undergo a lengthy process of learning on how to feed and defend themselves against predators before being released into the wild. This process can be lengthy and take years to complete, however China and it’s Panda keepers are dedicated to it! Finding food for Pandas is relatively easy, since they love bamboo. They do however eat 25-85 lb (12-38 kg) of bamboo per day. That is due to the low nutritional value of bamboo requiring the Pandas to eat a lot of it to meet their daily energy needs. This is one reason the Dujiangyan Base is largely covered by a bamboo forest. Fresh bamboo is a must in a Panda’s daily diet. About 1% of their diet includes other plants and small rodents. A Panda’s digestive system is that of a carnivore, however they have evolved to be almost 100 % vegetarian. Fascinated by these creatures we decided to spend a day volunteering at one of the bases in China. Prior to volunteering CCRCGP requested that we have a medical exam performed by our doctor to ensure that we were not bringing any diseases to the base. Currently some of the Panda centers have suspended their Panda Volunteer program however the China Conservation and Research Center for Giant Panda Dujiangyan Base does operate a Panda Keeper program. You can volunteer one day or choose to spend multiple days with the beautiful animals. The base is located about 56 kilometers (34 miles) northwest of Chengdu, China. You have the option of taking public transportation or a car (with driver). We chose to go by car which took about 1 1/2 hours. The program started at 8:30am after a short orientation and payment of fees (700 CYN per person). Each volunteer was given overalls and gloves which were to be worn throughout the day. Since the weather at the end of November tends to be chilly, we didn’t mind the extra layer of clothing. After we completed the day, we were grateful for the overalls or else we would have been slightly dirty. Finally, it was time to go meet the stars of the show…the Giant Pandas. A short ride on the Panda vehicle took us to the enclosures of these beautiful animals. Our first job was to collect all the panda poop. Yes, that is correct! We were given a small shovel and a dirt pan…let the collection efforts begin! Following the outside clean-up we stocked the area with fresh bamboo and the Panda was released from the enclosure. To protect the Panda’s teeth the keepers had us break the bamboo stalks to make them easier to eat. Yun Due (the Panda’s name) was so cute we didn’t mind doing that. While the Panda was munching on the bamboo and basking in the sun it was time for us to clean the interior. Fortunately, Panda poop does not stink! After collecting all droppings we hosed down the enclosures. Pandas like their habitat clean! One of our favorite activities was feeding the Pandas. We all took turns to feed them with both Panda cakes and carrots. Watching them munch is by far the most adorable thing we have ever seen! The Panda Keepers are very particular about maintaining the base clean at all times, so we were each handed a broom and instructed to sweep the entire area. That was a workout! Having completed the morning shift, we were given a short tour of the remaining part facilities. We got to see Red Pandas, which didn’t look anything like the Giant Pandas. They were small and very fast but cute nonetheless. For an additional donation (1800 CYN per person), the base allowed us to spend a little bit of time with a 1-year old Panda. I got to sit on the bench next to it and give it a hug (not touching it’s mouth, ears or belly). It was important to remember that even though cute and cuddly looking, Pandas are still wild animals. They can hurt you! The base also provided us with a locally cooked lunch. We were invited to the cafeteria along with all the employees of the base for a meal (chicken, pork, vegetables, rice etc…). After lunch we had the opportunity to go and explore on our own for about an hour. We got to witness the uncomfortable sleeping habits of the Pandas. They are quite active in the morning (best time to visit a Panda base). Once they eat, they become cute but very lazy creatures. Following the short break we watched a movie about the Panda program in China. It was wonderful to learn about all the efforts of the Chinese government and the incredible work of the Chinese people to help the Pandas. All is done in the hopes of increasing the Panda population in the world. Need coffee? No problem…it was also served in a Panda cup! The second half of our work day consisted of similar activities as the morning (cleaning inside and outside the Panda enclosures, removing old bamboo and restocking with new, fresh bamboo, sweep and feed the Pandas again). We also got to make and try(!) some Panda cakes. They are made from Rice, Egg, Soybean and Corn then steam cooked. Honestly, not bad! The Panda cakes are supposed to be round and flattened (like a hamburger patty), as you can tell however, we were not very good at that. Our cake making skills were dismal…but we had a great time with it. At the end of this wonderful day we were each given a certificate for volunteering in the Panda Keeper program as well as a bag with information about the Pandas. For giving an additional donation to take a photo with the baby panda, we also received a t-shirt and a thank you certificate. Our feet hurt and we were tired, but it was worth it. Being so close to these beautiful creatures was wonderful. We would have loved to have more personal time with the Pandas, but the Keepers are very protective of them. Long gone are the days when you were allowed to roll around with the Pandas. Nowadays, they are much more careful and concerned for the safety of not just the humans, but also the Pandas. This particular base focuses on helping rescued wild Pandas. If you want to see small baby Panda cubs, you need to head to the Chengdu Research base, located just at the outskirts of Chengdu, China. You are not allowed to come close to the cubs, but they are so adorable even from any distance. Visiting these beautiful creatures was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If visiting China, this is a must-see place! ","permalink":"/blog/behind-the-bamboo-volunteering-at-a-giant-panda-sanctuary-in-chengdu/","section":"blog","summary":"Considered one of the cutest mammals in the world the Giant Panda is unfortunately also one of the most endangered species in the world. Naturally found in the dense bamboo forests of southwest China, Pandas have become a primary subject of China’s community for research and conservation. China is home to a number of research bases that have made it their goal to study and learn about the adorable creatures. Money and effort goes toward helping the Panda population grow and adapt to their natural environment.","title":"Behind the Bamboo: Volunteering at a Giant Panda Sanctuary in Chengdu"},{"content":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nBali, a beautiful and relatively small island located just 8 degrees south of the equator, a part of the country of Indonesia is a must-visit location for any nature and culture lover. Located in the majority Muslim country of Indonesia, Bali’s population is surprisingly 85 % Balinese Hindu. There are an estimated 20,000 temples throughout the island of Bali. Each and every establishment and home in Bali has a dedicated place of worship. Along with the traditional Hindu Gods the people of Bali worship a wide range of local deities unique to their own branch of Balinese Hinduism, thus the name “The Island of The Gods”.\nEach morning and multiple times throughout the day Balinese people pay respects to their Gods. The daily offerings are called Canang Sari. They are small, square handwoven baskets made from coconut or palm tree leaves and filled with colorful flowers and burning incense. The evidence of the daily offerings is everywhere. Besides the traditional temples, offerings to the gods are placed wherever a worshiper feels necessary. It is not unusual to walk on the sidewalks of Bali and to have to step over offering baskets.\n[caption id=“attachment_6055” align=“alignnone” width=“4032”] Canang Sari Offerings as seen all over Bali[/caption]\nThere is something magical about Bali. The beautiful and stunningly detailed carvings of the Balinese temples, the Canang Sari offerings everywhere and the sweet smell of the constantly burning incense truly captured our senses.\nWhen visiting a place, the question is always where to stay and what to see. Even a smaller island offers a variety of places to stay, things to experience and climates to consider. Let’s look at Bali for example, the island has a number of beautiful beaches but also a spectacular jungle nature. In our opinion, experiencing one and not the other would be a shame. We recommend splitting your time in two parts of the island and we promise the experience will be both, very different and unforgettable.\nWe chose to start with the jungle. The area of Ubud is world-famous for its art scene and serene hotels and spas. The options vary from budget hostel inns and rental housing to ultra luxury five-star resorts. Decide based on your budget. We decided to stay at the Hanging Gardens of Bali where we spent 3 nights here. The resort is not the most expensive in the area, however it is one of the most unique properties in Bali and around the world. Nestled in the lush jungle of Bali, the resort offers 44 individual bungalows, many with private swimming pools and panoramic views of the surrounding nature. The resort is probably most well-known for its central two-level swimming pool, arguably one of the most photographed pools in the world. The idea behind building this pool was to give swimmers the feeling of floating above the rain-forest canopy. It is a truly remarkable work of art.\n[caption id=“attachment_6070” align=“alignnone” width=“4032”] The infinity swimming pool overlooking the jungle at the Hanging Gardens of Bali hotel in Bali, Indonesia[/caption]\nThe villas at the resort are both private and very spacious. It is difficult to describe the peace and serenity of lounging on your patio overlooking the rainforest and taking in the breathtaking view of the jungle fog floating by. At times it felt like we were floating in the clouds. Such an incredible feeling!\nBali is also known for its beautiful temples, and you don’t have to go too far to visit one while at the Hanging Gardens of Bali. The resort is home to the Dalem Segara temple, a small but very picturesque temple. You are required to wear a sarong to enter the temple and the hotel staff can help you with that. A sarong is a large and usually colorful piece of fabric, which is wrapped around your waist or entire body and tied with a knot at the end.\n[caption id=“attachment_6058” align=“alignnone” width=“4032”] The small, but picturesque Dalem Segara Temple in Ubud[/caption]\n[caption id=“attachment_6059” align=“alignnone” width=“2865”] Beautiful view from the Dalem Segara Temple[/caption]\nJust about a 30 min car ride from the resort is the beautiful city of Ubud. Take a day trip to experience some of the local cuisine, visit the Monkey Forest and the Tagalalang Rice Terraces as well as get some shopping done if you so please. Ubud is the arts and dance center of Bali, surrounded by some of the most famous Balinese landmarks and dotted by hundreds of temples and shrines throughout the area. The hand carved statues, temple walls, etc are simply stunning. The intricate details seem almost impossible…truly fascinating!\n[caption id=“attachment_6060” align=“alignnone” width=“3024”] Breathtaking beautiful, Intricately carved wood temple door[/caption]\nThe Tagalalang rice paddies are probably the easiest accessible being right on the side of the road as well as the most photographed rice paddies in Bali. Depending on the season, the paddies may be bright green covered with growing rice or just harvested and filled with water reflecting the sky, clouds and palm trees above.\n[caption id=“attachment_6061” align=“alignnone” width=“4288”] The Tagalalang Rice Terraces of Bali[/caption]\nThe Jatiluwih rice terraces located in the region of Tabanan is another place to see and experience the beauty of the Bali rice fields. The area was also named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012. If you have time, take a walk through the rice fields for some unforgettable photography or simply sit and enjoy the stunning view of endless terraces.\n[caption id=“attachment_6054” align=“alignnone” width=“4032”] The Jatiluwih Rice Terraces[/caption]\nThe Monkey Forest of Ubud (officially known as Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary) is a nature preserve and a Hindu temple on the outskirts of Ubud. The area residents view the monkey forest as an important “spiritual, economic, educational, and conservation center for the village”. According to their website, around 700 monkeys live in the sanctuary. When visiting be careful! The monkeys will likely try to steal anything that is not firmly attached to you such as sunglasses, shoe laces, water bottles, cameras, phones, etc. Be mindful and protect your items. Also be aware and don’t get too close to the monkeys. Getting scratched or bitten by a monkey can lead to diseases and/or serious hospital time. Enjoy their presence, but do not encroach on their space.\n[caption id=“attachment_6062” align=“alignnone” width=“2848”] Woman placing an offering to the gods at the Monkey Forest in Ubud, Indonesia[/caption]\nBali is also home to an active volcano named Mount Batur. The volcano has not actively erupted in years, however even today you can see areas with smoke/steam rising from within the volcano. Hiking and trekking the volcano and surrounding mountain areas is a popular activity in the area if you are interested. If you are not into hiking, just admire its beauty from the side of the road or stop for a cup of tea at one of the many surrounding rest areas.\n[caption id=“attachment_6064” align=“alignnone” width=“4288”] Landscape view of Mount Batur[/caption]\nPicking a temple to visit in Bali is almost impossible. Each is beautiful and unique in its own way. We decided to visit the Pura Ulun Danu Bratan (aka Pura Bratan), a Shaivite water temple. The temple is a little bit out of the way, but worth the drive if time permits. The famous and very picturesque temple is illustrated on the 50,000 rupiah bill. Built in 1633, this temple is used for offering ceremonies to the Balinese water, lake and river goddess Devi Danu.\n[caption id=“attachment_6065” align=“alignnone” width=“4032”] Pura Ulun Danu Bratan (aka Pura Bratan), a Shaivite water temple[/caption]\nOne of the most popular and most photographed sites in Bali is the Pura Tanah Lot. This rock formation ancient temple sits right off the coast of Bali accessible by foot at low tide and completely surrounded by water at high tide. According to tales the temple is the work of the Dang Hyang Nirartha, a 16th century religious figure and Hindu traveler. The viewing areas around Tanah Lot tend to get quite busy at sunset when spectators gather in the hopes of seeing one of Bali’s incredible sunsets.\n[caption id=“attachment_6066” align=“alignnone” width=“4032”] View of the Tanah Lot Temple[/caption]\nOnce you have completed your jungle experience, it is now time to head to one of Bali’s many beach areas. Where you stay depends largely on what your interests are. If you are looking for endless shopping, crowded tourist areas and a nightlife scene your best bet is to stay near Kuta or Legian beach areas.If you are interested in fine dining, luxury and relaxation look no further than Jimbaran and Seminyak beach areas. This time we chose the Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay, where we spent another 3 nights. The resort is located on a cliff overlooking Jimbaran Bay. The villas are beautiful, spacious and all around luxurious with sweeping ocean views, private infinity pools, etc.\n[caption id=“attachment_6067” align=“alignnone” width=“4032”] Infinity pool villa at the Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay[/caption]\nWhile in Bali, a must-do activity is to get a massage. Whether at your hotel/resort or at a local massage place you should give it a try. Many spas and massage places feature massage rooms that are open to the outdoors. If you are lucky while you are getting your massage tropical rain will be pouring outside and you will experience one of the most peaceful and relaxing practices ever. The sound of the pouring rain carries a sense of calm and harmony!\n[caption id=“attachment_6068” align=“alignnone” width=“4032”] Massage room at Hanging Gardens Resort[/caption]\nBali has the perfect balance between nature, culture and luxury.\nLast but not least, being wine lovers we always look for a new wine to try and Bali did not disappoint. There is something about sipping on a glass of wine while tropical rain is drenching the outdoors…the experience is nothing but tranquility and peace…Cheers!\n[caption id=“attachment_6069” align=“alignnone” width=“4032”] Cheers to tranquility and peace[/caption]\nGetting Around\nOne of the easiest ways to get around Bali is by hiring a driver for a full day or multiple days. They will come and pick you up no matter where on the island you are staying, will show you anywhere you want to go and drop you off at the end of the day. Doing this gives you lots of flexibility and freedom to choose where you want to go, what you want to see how long you want to be on the road. There are so many options for hiring a driver, here is my go-to driver in Bali, his name is Esa. Click on his name to visit his Facebook page. I have had the pleasure of hiring him a few times and have always had a wonderful experience. He speaks English, knows the island extremely well and is very friendly. I can’t say enough great things about Esa.\nIn Conclusion\nVisiting Bali is a sensory journey that immerses you in a tapestry of vibrant colors, lush landscapes, and a unique blend of culture and spirituality. The moment you step onto the island, a palpable sense of tranquility envelops you, emanating from its serene temples, emerald rice terraces, and pristine beaches. The air carries the scent of incense and frangipani, creating an atmosphere of both calm and exotic allure. Bali’s warm and welcoming locals, adorned in traditional attire, contribute to the genuine hospitality that defines the island. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, indulging in delicious local cuisine, or simply lounging by the azure waters, Bali’s magnetic charm leaves an indelible imprint, making each visit a harmonious blend of relaxation and cultural discovery.\n","permalink":"/blog/the-island-of-the-gods-bali-indonesia/","section":"blog","summary":"This blog may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running. Thank you for your support!\nBali, a beautiful and relatively small island located just 8 degrees south of the equator, a part of the country of Indonesia is a must-visit location for any nature and culture lover.","title":"The island of the Gods - Bali, Indonesia"},{"content":"Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, Cartagena is also one of the most visited cities in Colombia. Cartagena de Indias (as it was known during the colonial era) is famous for its colorful colonial buildings located within the Walled City of Cartagena (La Ciudad Amurallada) as well as the beautiful beaches and soft white sand of the Rosario Islands. Located about 409 miles north of Bogota (Colombia’s capital city) along the beautiful Caribbean coast of Colombia, Cartagena is easily accessible by plane. Cartagena enjoys a warm and somewhat humid climate throughout the year, making it an excellent vacation destination during any season. The rainy season runs from April to May and October to November. Much of what you hear about Colombia is related to drug trafficking, government corruption, etc portraying Colombia as a dangerous place to visit. While that may be true in remote jungle areas of the country, we found Cartagena to be a very safe and tourist-friendly city. People in Cartagena were hospitable, kind and always gracious towards us. Cartagena de Indias was founded in 1533 and is home to one of the greatest fortresses ever built by the Spaniards in their colonial empire, the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas. The fortress was built to protect the coastal city from pirates in the 17th and 18th century. Cartagena captivates not only with its history and beautiful beaches, but also with its colorful and picturesque colonial architecture. The narrow streets of the Walled City are lined by beautiful multicolored houses leading to lively plazas scattered throughout the city. The newer part of the city is a complete opposite of the Old City. Its contemporary high-rises line the wide coastal streets offering a variety of posh and ultra-modern lifestyle options. Where to stay: Cartagena offers a number of options from ultra modern to historic boutique hotels. We chose Casa San Agustin for our 4-night stay, located within the walled city. Its central location made it easy to explore the old city and offered various choices for restaurants, shopping and sightseeing. There are of course plenty of accommodation options in the newer part of Cartagena, to be honest however, there was something beautiful and authentic about staying within the Walled City. It truly gave us that feeling of true colonial Colombia. The music, the narrow streets, the street food and the sidewalk cafes made for a heartwarming and enjoyable atmosphere and unmatched memories. Where to eat: Alma Restaurant offers a great evening atmosphere with excellent food choices. Live music on some evenings adds to its charm and ambiance. Excellent choice for a romantic date night. Rosa Mezcal Taqueria a Mexican fare taco shop with a modern twist, truly exquisite food and excellent service. This place is casual, upbeat and has some pretty cool decor. Zaitun is a delicious fusion of Carribean, Lebanese and Latin food with friendly staff, reasonable prices and an upbeat atmosphere. Things to see: Ciudad Amurallada - The Walled City of Cartagena - if you are already staying within the walled city, just walk out of your hotel and start exploring. Every street is more colorful than the previous. We could spend days walking around and exploring. It is truly captivating and one of a kind. When you get hot (because you will due to the daily temperatures and humidity) sit down at one of the local cafes and enjoy a delicious cup of Colombian coffee or an ice-cold beer. Iglesia de San Pedro Claver - built between 1580 and 1654, this Cartagena landmark is one of a number of religious buildings within the Walled City and a visual masterpiece visible from many of the surrounding streets.\nPlaza Santo Domingo - a vibrant and busy plaza featuring restaurants and bars with the enormous Church of Santo Domingo looming high above the ground. This is where you will also find the famed bronze sculpture Gertrudis (a large, plump, naked woman) created by Colombian artist Fernando Botero. Plaza de San Diego - a charming plaza in the middle of Cartagena. Sit down at one of the local cafes, enjoy a cold beer or a mojito and watch the world go by. Plaza de la Paz - a bustling plaza home to the Hard Rock Cafe and the famous clock tower (El Torre del Reloj) as well as a number of local restaurants and street food vendors. Castillo San Felipe de Barajas - original construction of the fortress started in 1536 and was considerably enlarged in 1762. It is located on the Hill of San Lázaro and is extremely well preserved. The fortress is considered to be one of the greatest fortresses ever built by the Spaniards in one of their colonies. Convento de la Popa - located at the top of Mount Popa, Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria de la Popa is a convent, cloister and chapel with 360 degree panoramic views of Cartagena. Founded in 1607 by the Augustine fathers the convent no longer houses monks however you can visit the premises and enjoy the view. Caribe Jewelry and Emerald Museum - Colombia is a leading country in the mining of the gemstone emerald. No journey to Colombia is complete without visiting an emerald museum/jewelry making facility and learning more about this beautiful green stone. Entrance to this particular museum is free and you receive a guided tour of their production facility as well as the museum. At the end you can choose to purchase emerald jewelry, however you are not obligated to. Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario) - do you need a day to escape the city, then head out to the Rosario Islands. This is an archipelago of about 30 islands located about 60 miles (100 km) from Cartagena. The islands are easily accessible by boat and parts like Playa Blanca even by car. Many tour companies offer a boat day trip to the islands. If you are looking for a budget friendly option take a group tour. From what I have read some group tours tend to get a little crowded and your options as to what part of the islands you will see are limited. We opted for a private boat charter where we could customize where to go and what to see. We chose the company ThalaSa Boat Tours and we were extremely happy with their service. We visited a number of islands, snorkeled both a Coral Reef as well as a sunken plane (assumed to be one of Pablo Escobar’s sunken drug planes). Also we opted for a more quiet lunch spot at the Agua Azul resort instead of the more crowded Cholon or Playa Blanca. The Agua Azul resort was truly beautiful with a private soft white-sand beach. On the way to the Rosario Islands by boat you will pass by the Fortress of San Fernando de Bocachica. This military fortress was an important landmark in the 17th and 18th centuries because it was used to protect the bay of Cartagena. The original castle was built in 1646 but was severely damaged in 1741 by the British Navy during a siege. It was re-built in 1753 and has been an important tourist attraction during the last century. Cartagena and its people truly surprised us with their hospitality and rich culture. We are not sure what we were expecting, but we were pleasantly surprised in every positive way possible. Once again, note to self, travel with an open mind and let the place you are visiting guide you, inspire you and captivate you.\n","permalink":"/blog/the-magic-city-of-cartagena-colombia/","section":"blog","summary":"Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, Cartagena is also one of the most visited cities in Colombia. Cartagena de Indias (as it was known during the colonial era) is famous for its colorful colonial buildings located within the Walled City of Cartagena (La Ciudad Amurallada) as well as the beautiful beaches and soft white sand of the Rosario Islands. Located about 409 miles north of Bogota (Colombia’s capital city) along the beautiful Caribbean coast of Colombia, Cartagena is easily accessible by plane.","title":"The Magic City of Cartagena, Colombia"},{"content":"When thinking of Norway you may be thinking of skiing, vikings, trolls or maybe the Nobel Peace Prize Institute. Norway however is known to be arguably one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Norwegians have topped the charts for happiest people in the world many times, but their stunning and striking natural beauty also puts them on top of my list for most beautiful country in the world. If only visiting Olso, you may disagree with me. Olso is a metropolitan, highly developed city and while beautiful in its own way, it does not compare to the nature found outside of the big city centers. A short 1 1/2 hour flight to Bodo followed by another 30 min flight you find yourself in the small fishing village of Svolvær. Located about 116 miles (186 km) north of the Arctic Circle, Svolvær is the gateway to the Arctic Fjords and the land of unmatched beauty known as the Lofoten Islands. [caption id=“attachment_6036” align=“alignnone” width=“4032”] Lofoten Islands Landscape[/caption] Norway is also one of the few countries where you can see the natural phenomenon Aurora Borealis (also known is the Northern Lights). Witnessing the Northern Lights is an ethereal dance of light in the Arctic night sky that transcends the realm of ordinary experiences. Venture into the remote landscapes of countries like Norway, Sweden, or Iceland, where the celestial display unfolds in a breathtaking symphony of vibrant colors. As darkness envelops the polar regions, ribbons of green, pink, and violet hues start to weave and shimmer, painting the heavens with an otherworldly glow. The crisp air is charged with anticipation as you stand under the celestial spectacle, the dancing lights creating an awe-inspiring spectacle that seems to defy the laws of nature. It’s a moment of pure enchantment, where the mystical Northern Lights cast their spell, leaving an indelible imprint on those fortunate enough to witness this celestial ballet. [caption id=“attachment_6041” align=“alignnone” width=“5349”] The Northern Lights dancing above a church in Norway[/caption] Let’s start by mentioning that seeing the Northern Lights is not a guarantee. They dance in the nighttime sky all year around, however are only visible between the middle of September and middle to end of April. Only then is the night sky dark enough for us to witness them. We have seen the Northern Lights numerous times in different parts of the world, but so far Norway has mesmerized us with our favorite display of this natural phenomenon. Reaching Svolvær was a mini adventure in itself. We flew from Oslo to Bodo and then on to Svolvær. We spent three nights in Svolvær during the month of November. We stayed at the picturesque Anker Brygge hotel. The cozy red rorbu (a Norwegian traditional seasonal house used by fishermen and located in a fishing village, also usually painted red) was located right by the water and had a wonderful view of the sea and surrounding mountains. Conveniently located near the town square makes it easy to walk to nearby shops and restaurants. [caption id=“attachment_6045” align=“alignnone” width=“4032”] Anker Brygge Rorbusuiter hotel[/caption] One aspect of traveling during the winter season to Norway, especially so far up north of the Arctic Circle is the short or non-existent day light. In November the sun came up around 10:30am and the sunset was at about 3:00pm. Despite the short days, we were able to see and experience the arctic beauty of Norway without skipping a beat. [caption id=“attachment_6039” align=“alignnone” width=“4032”] Fishing Village in the Lofoten Islands[/caption] Svolvær it is a picturesque town in the Lofoten archipelago of Norway. Svolvær is embraced by dramatic mountains and sits along the edge of a serene harbor. The town encapsulates the essence of Norwegian coastal beauty, with its red and yellow fishing cabins, known as “rorbuer,” dotting the waterfront. Surrounded by the mighty peaks of the Lofoten Wall, Svolvær offers a gateway to outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The nearby areas showcase stunning landscapes, from pristine beaches to fjords that cut through the rugged terrain, creating a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The combination of scenic charm and outdoor activities makes Svolvær and its surroundings a captivating destination in the heart of Norway’s Arctic wilderness. [caption id=“attachment_6038” align=“alignnone” width=“4032”] A picturesque road surrounded by snowcapped mountains[/caption] And this is where the Northern Lights danced for us all night long defying the most vivid imagination. We booked at private tour with The Aurora Jäger. We were supposed to meet with our guide Odd Peter at 8pm, however as we got closer to 6:30pm we got a call that the Aurora Borealis is out and dancing and we better get going. Right away we jumped in his car and off we went on an unforgettable adventure. They were everywhere! [caption id=“attachment_6040” align=“alignnone” width=“1620”] Aurora Borealis above the city of Svolvær[/caption] [caption id=“attachment_6043” align=“alignnone” width=“5568”] The Northern Lights above the trees[/caption] Witnessing the Aurora Borealis is an indescribable encounter with nature’s grandeur. As the night sky transforms into a canvas of celestial hues, a profound sense of wonder envelops you. The first glimpse, often a subtle shimmer on the horizon, ignites a mix of anticipation and awe. As the Northern Lights intensify, ethereal ribbons of green, pink, and violet begin to dance and weave across the heavens, casting an enchanting glow. The air is filled with an almost palpable magic, a connection to the cosmos that transcends the ordinary. In this celestial ballet, time seems to stand still, and you find yourself immersed in a moment of pure wonder and reverence for the mysteries of the universe. It’s a feeling that lingers, leaving an enduring memory of the beauty and majesty that unfolds in the Arctic night sky. [caption id=“attachment_6044” align=“alignnone” width=“5472”] The Aurora Borealis in Norway[/caption] During the short days we were able to hire a local tour guide to drive us outside of town to see some of the picturesque landscapes of the Lofoten Islands. Whichever direction you choose to drive in you will be met by majestic mountains, crystal clear lakes, snow-capped peaks, tiny fishing villages, remote small churches and wildlife in its natural habitat. For wildlife lovers we recommend taking a wildlife tour where you get to see orcas and whales, puffins, sea eagles, seals, arctic foxes, reindeer etc. up-close and in person. [caption id=“attachment_6035” align=“alignnone” width=“4032”] Crystal clear lakes surrounded by majestic mountains[/caption] On your way home, you can choose to take the ferry from Svolvær to Bodo. The ferry ride is 3-4 hours depending on weather conditions. During the summer it would make for a scenic journey, however in the winter when the weather is more unpredictable, schedules and routes can change suddenly. We had to catch a plane from Bodo back to Oslo and we did not want to take a chance of missing our plane, so we opted to fly. To avoid any unnecessary headaches, we booked a 1-night stay in Bodo. We did not want to be stranded in case a flight was cancelled or delayed. We stayed at the Scandic Havet a hotel situated in the center of town. We enjoyed a wonderful evening with excellent food followed by a stroll through town. The following day early in the morning we made our way back home. Embarking on an unforgettable trip is like stepping into a vivid story where every moment is a chapter of exploration and wonder. It’s the thrill of discovering hidden gems in unfamiliar landscapes, the taste of local cuisines that linger on the palate like cherished memories. The journey unfolds with a symphony of sights, sounds, and scents, from ancient landmarks whispering tales of the past to bustling markets alive with the rhythm of daily life. Unforgettable trips are adorned with encounters—be it with locals sharing their culture or chance meetings that turn strangers into lifelong friends. Each sunrise and sunset paints the sky with a unique palette, framing landscapes that etch themselves into the heart. It’s the fusion of adventure and serendipity, creating a travel narrative that resonates long after the journey’s end—a tapestry woven with the threads of exploration, connection, and the ineffable magic of discovery. The Arctic region of Norway was all of that and I sincerely hope that you have the opportunity to experience it for yourself.\n","permalink":"/blog/the-arctic-beauty-and-aurora-dreams-of-norway/","section":"blog","summary":"When thinking of Norway you may be thinking of skiing, vikings, trolls or maybe the Nobel Peace Prize Institute. Norway however is known to be arguably one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Norwegians have topped the charts for happiest people in the world many times, but their stunning and striking natural beauty also puts them on top of my list for most beautiful country in the world. If only visiting Olso, you may disagree with me.","title":"The Arctic Beauty and Aurora Dreams of Norway"},{"content":"The most common question I get about booking a trip is: “How do you know where to go to book a trip?” The truth is, I don’t. It is all online. I just know how to find it. To me planning and booking the trip is almost as exciting as taking the trip itself. Learning about my upcoming trip destination and getting to know the area is truly exhilarating. Knowing about where I am going and what to expect also relieves some of the stress of the unknown. Learning as much as possible about a place ahead of time really sets my mind at ease. Booking a trip is almost as easy as reading the news online. So here are the steps I follow each and every time: 1. Decide where you want to go This is probably a tough one for some people because there are so many places to see but you have to start somewhere. The easiest place to start is with your bucket list. What is the one place that excites you, that intrigues you, that you have to see at least once in your life? Maybe picking an area rather than a place is a great way to go. If you have sufficient time consider visiting more than one place in the area, you will be there anyway. It is also a great way to save money. A flight to a neighboring city or country will be a lot cheaper from where you already are than having to come back home and go on another trip. If you are still having a hard time deciding check the prices of tickets to different destinations and maybe finding a sale on airfare will help you choose a place. You can check Google Flights or Skyscanner for airfare prices to various destinations or read the Mimski.com blog for inspiration. To use Google Flights when you don’t have a destination in mind, enter your nearest airport and leave the destination airport blank. Enter your preferred travel dates (use flexible dates if you want more options) and click “Explore”. Google will show you destinations around the globe and starting prices for airfare. It is a very useful tool when searching for flights. 2. Decide how much time you want to spend there How much time you have will determine how far you can go and how much you will be able to see on one trip. If you only have a long weekend I would suggest limiting your flight time to no more than six hours each way. You don’t want to spend an entire day getting there. If you have at least a week then you can pretty much go anywhere in the world. 3. Book your flights I always like to start with booking the flights first. When and where you are flying to will determine how many days of accommodations you need and what activities you will have at your disposal. The reason for booking your flight first is that with the world’s time differences, flight lay overs etc., you may end up skipping or gaining a full day when going to certain destinations. It is very important to know what time your flights leave and arrive so you can book around them. For example, leaving Los Angeles to anywhere in Asia taking a red eye flight let’s say on Friday May 23rd at 11:55pm will get you to Asia on Sunday (!) May 25th in the morning. In terms of booking a hotel that means you don’t need to book a room for May 24th because you will not be there. Your flight may be only 13-14 hours, but you actually skip an entire day time zone-wise. If you are on a time crunch or just want to spend as much time at your destination instead of at airports, look for direct flights. Layovers are okay in certain situations, but be prepared because some layovers are quite long. Here are some of the sites I use for booking Flights: Kayak is great because it allows you to compare prices among other websites like Orbitz, Travelocity or Priceline. Keep in mind that not all airlines are listed on Kayak. Low budget airlines for example, do not always show up on those sites. Some carriers offer competitive prices and additional destinations. The other option I always check is buying from the airline directly. Sometimes you will get a much better deal from the airline than any other place. If booking a multi-city flight plan, it is imperative to decide if you are going to book one itinerary with all flights on it or if you are going to book separate flights. Here are the pros and cons to that. Booking a multi-city itinerary on one ticket may be cheaper than booking separate flights, however if for any reason you miss one of your flights…all of your remaining flights will be cancelled. It happened to us while in Peru and turned into a $4000 mistake. If you book separate flights you may pay a little more but missing a flight won’t be the end of the world. You just have to re-purchase that flight, the rest stay in place. 4. Book your accommodations Where you stay and how much you pay for accommodations can vary dramatically. The few criteria to keep in mind is that you want a place that is centrally located, preferably walking distance to shops, restaurants and tourist attractions. I like to look at a map of the destination city and find out what I want to see and based on that I pick a hotel in the vicinity. This eliminates the need to always take a taxi or other transportation. There is nothing better than being able to leave your hotel and walk to eat or to sightsee. For accommodations reviews I use TripAdvisor and Tablet Hotels for boutique and luxury hotels. The resources are endless, mainly what I need from the websites is travelers’ reviews. Once you have identified a place you like check if the hotel has its own website. Some hotels will offer you free or added amenities if you book directly with them. I have received perks such as free airport pick-ups, free Wi-Fi, free upgrades, free breakfast, free nights etc. for booking directly from the hotel website. So check all options before you make a final booking. Also, if you have a credit card such the platinum American Express or Chase Sapphire check their websites before booking. When booking through American Express travel for example, you can get perks such as resort credit, early check-in or guaranteed late check-out, free breakfast, etc. For me those perks are definitely worth it. Don’t forget about private accommodations from platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, etc. They offer excellent alternatives to traditional hotels, especially if you are traveling with a family or larger group. 5. Book other activities/tours I am a big proponent of taking day trips away from the city. This type of a trip allows for you to see so much more of the country and does not require you to book different accommodations and transportation. The hotel you already booked becomes your home base for the trip and you venture out during the day to see other parts of the area. I don’t know about you but when I go somewhere I want to see and experience as much as possible. I want to know more than just the big city. I want to see the countryside and the landmarks not immediately located in the city center. Some of the more fascinating places we have seen have been outside the major metropolitan areas. You have a choice of hiring a private tour guide or a group tour. The group tours are usually cheaper, but also allow for less flexibility of the itinerary and are a lot less personal. A great resource for day tours is TripAdvisor. They have a variety of options for every budget. Don’t feel obligated to spend every day in the city, be adventurous and take a look around. 6. Arrange for airport transportation There is nothing worse than to arrive in a foreign country not speaking the language and not having a clear idea of how to get around. Sometimes the options are few but it is better to be prepared. Here are some of the choices you may have: Hotel Shuttles - First check with your hotel, many offer airport pick up free of charge and others have a fee. If it is free, email the hotel with your arrival and departure information and they will arrange for pick up and drop off. That is easy! If they charge, decide on whether you are okay with the charge or if you feel that it is too much, explore your options. Taxis - You can search the Internet for information on taxi rates from the airport to your hotel. Sometimes it is cheaper to take a taxi than the hotel shuttle. It is smart to have an idea of what to expect as far as taxi fares are concerned because in many countries taxi drivers will try to charge you more than the standard fare. Search the internet by using phrases such as “how much is a taxi between X airport and X hotel?”. Write down the information you find and remember that almost everywhere in the world you can negotiate with taxi drivers! Private Transportation Companies - There are also private companies that you can hire to provide you with transportation from the airport to your hotel. In this case you can pre-negotiate the fee, so there are no surprises. Public Transportation - Sometimes the best option to get around is public transportation especially in large metropolitan cities. Always check whether your destination city has a subway/train/bus etc. system. Public transportation is not only convenient, but also much cheaper than any of the above options. It may require a little more planning, but it is well worth it especially if you are on a budget. Most large cities have websites about their public transit system with maps and additional information to help you get around. If all else fails and you can’t find the information you need, email the hotel and ask them for suggestions on getting around. They will be happy to give you the information you need. 7. Travel Insurance Consider purchasing travel insurance separately to ensure coverage for unexpected events and cancellations. To compare travel insurance plans, you can use dedicated travel insurance comparison websites. Some of the popular ones are Squaremouth, InsureMyTrip and TravelInsurance.com 8. Other Miscellaneous Make sure to check and stay up to date on visa requirements for your chosen destination. Stay updated on any travel restrictions, vaccination requirements and any health and safety guidelines. This is the official website to the US Department of State where you can check up to date information on destinations worldwide. Planning a trip is not difficult, but can be time consuming. Try to look at trip planning as the beginning of your adventure and not a chore. The more information you have before your journey the more likely it is that you will find activities that you will truly enjoy. Also booking ahead of time gives you the chance to review companies and service providers and pick one you feel comfortable with. Take your time with planning and enjoy the process, Happy travels! ","permalink":"/blog/how-to-book-a-trip-without-a-travel-agent/","section":"blog","summary":"The most common question I get about booking a trip is: “How do you know where to go to book a trip?” The truth is, I don’t. It is all online. I just know how to find it. To me planning and booking the trip is almost as exciting as taking the trip itself. Learning about my upcoming trip destination and getting to know the area is truly exhilarating. Knowing about where I am going and what to expect also relieves some of the stress of the unknown.","title":"How to book a trip without a travel agent"},{"content":"Bora Bora is a tiny island located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. It is one of 118 islands and atolls of the Society Islands of French Polynesia. The original name of Bora Bora was “Pora pora mai te pora” which means “created by the gods”…today it is also known as “The Pearl of the Pacific”. This is indeed one of the most enchanting, serene and unbelievable places we have ever visited. From the beautiful white sand beaches to the majestic view of Mount Otemanu, it has been the one place that we can’t get enough of. Stepping onto the shores of Bora Bora is like entering a tropical dreamscape where the hues of turquoise waters and lush greenery converge in breathtaking harmony. Encircled by a pristine coral reef, this South Pacific paradise invites visitors into a realm of overwater bungalows, each perched above the crystal-clear lagoon. The air is scented with the fragrant blooms of hibiscus and tiare flowers, and the gentle lapping of waves against the white-sand beaches creates a soothing soundtrack. Snorkeling amidst vibrant coral gardens reveals a kaleidoscope of marine life, while a sunset unveils the island’s dramatic beauty against the backdrop of Mount Otemanu. Bora Bora, with its luxurious seclusion and natural wonders, offers an indulgent escape that transcends the ordinary, making every moment a postcard-worthy memory. We spent four days on the island of Bora Bora and as usual we travelled with carry-on suitcases only. Stick your feet in the sand, grad a tropical cocktail, sit back and relax! We took the 8-hour red-eye flight from Los Angeles, to Papeete, Tahiti on Air Tahiti Nui and then a 1-hour domestic flight from Tahiti to Bora Bora on Air Tahiti. You will notice that the names of the airlines sound similar, but they are two separate airlines. Air Tahiti Nui (notice the Nui) is the international carrier and Air Tahiti is the domestic (interisland) carrier. The only way from the airport to any of the resorts is by boat, so we had no choice, but to sit back and enjoy the ride. Make sure to arrange airport transportation ahead of time with your resort so they know your arrival time and can be there to pick you up. Usually airport pick up is paid to the resort as they each have their own boats. There is one free way to get to your resort, but it will be more time consuming and will require some waiting around. There is boat going from the airport to the main dock in Vaitape. The shuttle has been free so far and takes about 20 min. Every resort on the island operates daily free boat shuttles to Vaitape for guests who wish to go into town. You will need to get the schedule from your resort, so you can catch their shuttle back to the resort from Vaitape (that usually happens in the afternoon). So between the free airport shuttle and free resort shuttle, you can make it to the resort for free. Just keep in mind that it may take you the entire day to go about it this way. The paid resort boat shuttle takes you directly to the resort where you can relax and unwind from your journey. There are about 20 luxury resorts on the island of Bora Bora. Each resort on Bora Bora is stunning and breathtaking and boasts an unique view. Most of the luxury resorts are situated along the coral wall surrounding the lagoon. They all offer the dreamy overwater bungalows that we imagine when we think of Bora Bora, but they all vary in size, upkeep and amenities. We chose to stay at the Four Seasons Bora Bora. To us the iconic view of Mount Otemanu from the Four Seasons was worth it. Once at the Four Seasons, it was still bright and early at only 9 am, so what is there to do on a tropical island at this time of the morning? Well, we decided to go with some cocktails on the beach….cheers!!! We had the entire beach to ourselves, not a soul around…not many places in the world allow for this type of privacy. Eventually, we made our way to the our overwater bungalow and once again we were left speechless. We had seen pictures before of overwater bungalows, even stayed in one, but the overwater bungalows at the Four Seasons were the absolute best we had ever seen. Each one is spacious and has a breathtaking view of the unbelievably turquoise lagoon! The outdoor deck allows for easy access to the water for swimming or just lounge around and read a book! As a matter of fact, you can spend your entire vacation not leaving the room…just order room service, relax and bask in the views and sunshine!\nThis is probably the reason why many people don’t go to the beach or stay at the pool. Why would you leave a place like that? And let’s suppose you got really bored and you wanted to leave the resort…there is plenty to do around the island. The resort you are staying at most likely offers daily excursions that you can sign up for. Alternatively, we can also recommend Bora Bora Romantic Tour. We spent one whole day with them and had a wonderful experience. Their groups for this tour are small and full of many exciting activities. The tour also included a lunch on a private beach. Here is a list of 15 things to see and do while in Bora Bora: 1. Swim with the sharks (Yes, really! No kidding!) They are real and we were advised to try not to kick them while swimming. Other than that, our only hope was that we were not the first group for the day visiting them. We figured, if they were hungry, they would have eaten someone from the previous group! Good luck!\n2. Feed the Stingrays (they are a little slimy and try not step on their tail). We were more afraid of the stingrays because they came right by our feet. They swim around and unexpectedly came in close contact with us. We were in waist deep water and they would came right up to us to get their fish. Huge creatures!\n3. Go on a romantic couple’s boat tour. This is a full day tour of the island followed by an amazing beach barbeque on a private beach, drinks and stunning views. Such a wonderful way to experience another side of the island.\n4. Barbecue on the beach… you can’t leave Bora Bora without having some beach barbeque. Seafood, meat or vegetables…it doesn’t matter, it is all delicious!\n5. Jet ski around the entire island (and even if you fall in the water, who cares? Look at it!). Given the size of the island, you can jet ski around the entire lagoon in a couple of hours. On the way, we made a pit stop for lunch at a local restaurant before circling all the way around the lagoon. This was a fantastic experience!\n6. Learn how to paint or color a pareo ( a traditional Polynesian wraparound skirt). The locals use paints derived from local plants and use the plant leaves as stencils to make some colorful and quite stunning designs on their local pareo. They are available to purchase along with some local jewelry. Quite a fascinating process and worth seeing!\n7. Learn how to open a coconut and the many different ways to enjoy the coconut water and meat. Apparently, opening a coconut is not just a skill, but also a science. Have the locals demonstrate to you how to do it right and taste the fresh coconut water. The taste is amazing! Your favorite store-bought coconut water may become just a little less favorite after you taste the real deal.\n**8. Learn how to play Javelin…**the local competitive game requires you to throw a handmade wooden javelin from a predetermined line at a coconut situated at between 22 feet \u0026 31 feet (7 m \u0026 9.5 m) ( above ground-level atop a pole) Good Luck! We tried and it was not easy.\n9. Circle the island on 4-wheelers and other interesting vehicles. You can rent the 4-wheelers or you can hire a truck to take you around the island. This way you can explore the slopes of Mount Otemanu and the stunning vistas around every corner. Just when you thought you had seen the best of Bora Bora, you get surprised by yet another iconic view.\n10. Visit some of the islands spectacular vista points (…and they will take your breath away). For the small size of this island it certainly offers countless amazing views, each more beautiful than the previous. Every angle of this island is unique, dazzling and simply astounding. We never got tired of seeing yet another incredible perspective of Bora Bora.\n11. Visit Bloody Mary’s. A Bora Bora staple since the 1970s, this bar and restaurant is a must visit. Just keep in mind when going there, don’t go for the food (honestly, it’s just OK), go for the experience. Write your name on a dollar bill and staple it to the wall, get a drink at the bar and enjoy the moment…and don’t forget to get a t-shirt! This is a must in order to blend in with all the tourists returning from Bora Bora :-)\n12. Ride around in a canoe. The traditional way of getting around the island is by canoe, so while there don’t miss out on the opportunity. Experience the beauty of the lagoon front and center from your own VIP seat.\n13. Simply hang out at the spa. You don’t even have to get a treatment or a massage. Simply show up, change into your swimsuit and indulge your visual senses. The Four Seasons has brought a slice of heaven right down to Earth. Magnificent!\n14. Witness a spectacular sunset. Of course, you never know whether the sunset will be colorful and dreamy, but chances are it will. Try to go for a walk during sunset time, you may just be surprised with one the most amazing natural occurrences there is.\n15. Get married on the beach (a dream come true for us). You have probably seen the wedding-on-the beach photos online or in magazines and you may think to yourself, they are all staged and photoshopped. The truth is, they most likely are not. It is really that incredible of a place. Our beach wedding was more magical than we could have ever dreamt. Share the special moment with your friends and/or family or just the two of you…either way, in that moment time stands still and the feeling of being there on that most beautiful beach in the world celebrating love, will remain forever engraved in your mind.\nLooking through the pictures, we still feel that they don’t do the island justice. Beauty such as Bora Bora’s needs to be experienced. It is hard to describe the sound of the soothing water, the tropical aroma of the local flowers and the kindness of the locals. If you have a bucket list, add it to the list. If you don’t have one…consider starting with Bora Bora. ","permalink":"/blog/the-pearl-of-the-pacific-a-paradise-on-earth-15-things-to-do-in-bora-bora-french-polynesia/","section":"blog","summary":"Bora Bora is a tiny island located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. It is one of 118 islands and atolls of the Society Islands of French Polynesia. The original name of Bora Bora was “Pora pora mai te pora” which means “created by the gods”…today it is also known as “The Pearl of the Pacific”. This is indeed one of the most enchanting, serene and unbelievable places we have ever visited.","title":"The Pearl of the Pacific...a Paradise on Earth...15 things to do in Bora Bora, French Polynesia"},{"content":"Embarking on a journey through Cambodia is an exploration of contrasts and cultural richness. From the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat to the bustling markets of Phnom Penh, Cambodia weaves a tapestry that seamlessly blends history, spirituality, and modern vibrancy. The allure lies not only in the awe-inspiring temples that whisper tales of an illustrious past but also in the warm smiles of locals, the vibrant street life, and the diverse landscapes that unfold as you traverse the country. Whether cruising along the Mekong River, savoring the flavors of Khmer cuisine, or witnessing the resilience of a nation emerging from a complex history, Cambodia offers a travel experience that is both enlightening and profoundly rewarding. On this trip we spent four days in Siem Reap. Join us on a spiritual journey through this fascinating country. Cambodia, officially known as the Kingdom of Cambodia is a country in Southeast Asia neighboring Thailand, Vietnam and Laos. The country has been through a tough and tumultuous past including wars, genocides and dictatorships. Through all that Cambodia has managed to conserve and protect some of its most iconic national monuments, the temples. Cambodia is home to the world’s largest religious complex, Angkor Wat which is also reflected on the country’s national flag. The largest city of Cambodia is the capital Phnom Penh. With just over 1.5 million people it is the government and administrative area of the country. 95 % of Cambodia’s population is Buddhist and more specifically follows Theravada Buddhism. It is not unusual to see statues of Buddha everywhere you go. Buddhism has been a part of the Khmer people’s lives for over 2000 years. The garment industry is the largest employer in Cambodia followed by tourism. This leads us to the Siem Reap Province. Just 198 miles (320 km) northwest of Phonm Penh is the much smaller city of Siem Reap, also known as the gateway to the ancient world. Originally only visited by backpacker with a sense of adventure due to the difficulty of getting there, today Siem Reap is fully developed and able to welcome tourists of all ages. Siem Reap can easily be accessed from Phnom Penh by plane, bus or as we decided to do…hire a car with a driver. The entire journey was supposed to take about 5 hours, it took closer to 7 hours due to the conditions of the road. There was not much traffic, but the main road was under construction (meaning it was mostly a dirt road). For the majority of the drive we were surrounded by a cloud of dust making it difficult to see oncoming traffic. But we made it to Siem Reap safe and sound and what an adventure it was. Once in Seam Reap we were exhausted but very excited to embark on our temple tour the following day. Siem Reap is a small town full of life. We met some of the most wonderful people during our stay. The easiest way to get around town is via a tuk tuk, a two wheeled carriage pulled by a motorcycle. It is extremely cheap and easy to catch one since they are everywhere. And maybe if you are lucky, you will meet Mr. Nang (tuk tuk driver per certificate posted in tuk tuk). He spoke little to no English, had no teeth, but carried around by far the biggest and most genuine smile we had ever seen. It was heartwarming to see people who only earn a few dollars a day, but were so happy. Cambodia’s people really gave us some food for thought. In a country where people don’t have much they still choose to get up every morning, put on a genuine smile and make our day! While visiting Siem Reap, we stayed at the beautiful Golden Temple Hotel. To this day, it is one of my favorite hotels we have ever stayed at. This colorful and beautifully furnished hotels embodies everything that is Cambodia. The staff is wonderful and the location is convenient for all of your day trips. Finally it was time to visit the national treasures of Cambodia, the Angkor Archaeological Park of Temples, the Banteay Srei and Roluos Temple areas. Angkor Thom Most people start their day with visiting the Angkor Wat thus making it quite crowded in the morning, so we decided to start with Angkor Thom. This great ancient city is surrounded by a 26 ft (8 m) tall wall forming a square. Each wall runs for approximately 1.9 mi (3 km). There are 5 entries into the complex, each gate decorate with a 75 ft (23 m) tall tower crowned with four heads facing in four directions. The gates into Angkor Thom are among the most photographed ancient Cambodian ruins. To enter the complex you first have to cross a bridge across the moat surrounding the city walls. The bridge itself is a photography hot-spot. It is not unusual for people to get out of their cars to take photos and thus cause a traffic congestion. This is the last remaining capital city of the Khmer Empire. Built in the 12th century, the complex contains ruins of numerous temples and structures in the middle of which is the Jayavarman’s state temple, the Bayon, beautifully and richly decorated. The stone carving work throughout the complex is exquisite. It is hard to believe that it was all hand carved. The walls of the temple are decorated with incredibly detail-rich carvings. To avoid the tourist crowds again, after Angkor Thom we decided to drive to The Banteay Srei Temple that was a little further away but as we found out, it was absolutely worth the 30 min drive. Along the way we got to see a little bit more of the countryside and some of Cambodia’s rice fields. Rice is synonymous with food. It is served everywhere and it comes in various forms…fried, steamed, in the form of noodles, as a desert mixed with fruits and coconut milk, etc. The Banteay Srei Temple This 10th century Hindu temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva lies about 16 mi (25 km) north-east of the Angkor complex of temples. Even though a little out of the way, I would not miss this temple by any means. The intricate details of the wall carvings is mind blowing. The temple has a beautiful red hue because it was built from red sandstone. Sandstone is easily carved and therefore led to the astonishing and elaborate wall carvings. Compared to other temples in the area the structures of Banteay Srei seem almost miniature. Given it’s size and incredible wall art it is largely regarded as the “Jewel of Khmer Art” and rightfully so. Ta Prohm Temple Unlike many of the temples in the area that have been heavily restored, Ta Prohm is largely in the same condition that it was found in. The amazing co-existence of man-made structures and jungle trees is astonishing. Today the trees look like they are growing out of the structures. If the trees were removed, the temple would most likely crumble. The walls of the temple are covered with thousands of carvings of animals. One of the carvings however depicts an actual dinosaur, a stegosaurus to be exact. It is hidden in a quite corner in the back of the temple and is to this day a mystery as to why it is there. It was quite difficult to find given the number of carvings on the walls. Today the temple is a UNESO World Heritage Site, but it became most famous after the 2001 movie “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider” based on the Tomb Raider video game and starring Angelina Jolie. It is truly a magnificent work of art started by men and completed by mother nature. Angkor Wat Initially constructed as a Hindu temple and gradually converted into a Buddhist temple by the 12th century the Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world. It encompasses 154 sq mi (400 sq km). When entering the Agkor Wat you will be welcomed by two giant Naga (Seven-headed snake) sculptures. Naga comes from Sanskrit, nag meaning snake and specifically cobra. In Cambodian history the odd-headed Naga represents the male energy, infinity, timelessness, and immortality. Angkor Wat is the national pride of Cambodia. It is an unique temple in the way that it depicts Mount Meru…home of the gods, a sacred mountain with five peaks. The temple grounds are surrounded by a 190 meter wide moat and there are only two access points to the grounds, one via a sandstone bridge and one via an earth bank. Some of the most popular times to visit the Angkor Wat is in the morning to view the sunrise or in the early evening to witness the sunset. Even the beer in Cambodia is named after the famous Angkor area! Cheers!!! Kompong Phluk Floating Village Unlike actual floating villages that move around a body of water at all times, Kompong Phluk is a communal village built on stilts, only partially floating. Located in the Tonle Sap Lake, the village is located about 1.5 hours driving from Siem Reap and then a 30 min boat ride. It was pretty incredible to see people living entirely surrounded by water. The village is home to approximately 3000 residents throughout the year. When the water is extremely low, you can see a little bit of land where the homes are built, but most of the year the only way to get around is by boat. Preah Ko Temple The third temple area in the Siem Reap Province is called Rolous and is located about 9 mi (15 km) from the Angkor Temple Complex. It contains a number of smaller temples. Preah Ko is one oldest temples in the area. Built in 879 under Khmer King Indravarman I, it’s purpose was to honor the king’s family in relation to the Hindu deity Shiva. The name of the temple means “The Sacred Bull”. The three main statues represent Nandi, the bull who serves as the mount of Shiva. The temple is small but picturesque. At the end of the day our driver took us to a local school where we were allowed to go into the classroom. Hidden behind the ruins of an ancient temple was the humble domicile of the school. It was truly a special moment to see the kids and how positive and excited they were to be in school. In a country where there is so much poverty, having the ability to attend school is genuinely cherished. Given all the difficulties the country faces, the Khmer people are truly remarkable. They have such a honestly positive outlook on everyday life. That feeling of being happy and grateful no matter what was really inspiring to us. Finally, while visiting Cambodia make sure to try their local candy called Khmer Tamarind. It is a little different than what you may be used to at home, but it is delicious! Lastly, we want to give you just a few more FYIs before you head out on your Cambodian adventure.\nKeep in mind that Cambodia is the third most land mined country in the world. Estimates are that there still more than 4 million miles buried across the country. So, while it may be tempting to go off the beaten path, it is always safer to stick to well marked roads and paths. Safety first! Cambodia is not a tipping country. People are paid for their work and a tip is not required. Keep in mind however, people in Cambodia earn an extremely modest daily wage, so tipping can go a long way. Even just a dollar is considered a generous gesture. People will go above and beyond without a tip, but if they did an excellent job, why not reward them. They will truly appreciate it! ","permalink":"/blog/the-kingdom-of-cambodia-a-gateway-to-the-ancient-world/","section":"blog","summary":"Embarking on a journey through Cambodia is an exploration of contrasts and cultural richness. From the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat to the bustling markets of Phnom Penh, Cambodia weaves a tapestry that seamlessly blends history, spirituality, and modern vibrancy. The allure lies not only in the awe-inspiring temples that whisper tales of an illustrious past but also in the warm smiles of locals, the vibrant street life, and the diverse landscapes that unfold as you traverse the country.","title":"The Kingdom of Cambodia - A gateway to the ancient world!"},{"content":"I have always liked the idea of travel. For most of my life however it seemed impossibly expensive and extremely difficult to plan a trip. I always waited and hoped that someone would decide to go with me and help me plan but that hardly ever happened. During most of my 20s I was struggling financially, living paycheck to paycheck, hoping for a change. Finally, when I turned 30 something unexpected happened that pushed me to not be afraid and to take life into my own hands. A trip planned months before (by my ex-husband) was suddenly canceled two weeks before it was to take place. I was devastated and felt sorry for myself…for about 24 hours. Suddenly, I decided that if I really wanted to take a trip I would look into organizing it myself. Within 24 hours I had put together my very first trip abroad. My plan was to visit 5 countries Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Bulgaria, visit some of my friends on the way and finally see my family. It was the most exhilarating 24 hours I had experienced thus far…I booked flights, hotels, activities etc…and I loved every minute of it. My entire trip cost me less than $2500.00 and most importantly I had a renewed belief in life and in my future. Planning the trip was much more than just buying plane tickets and booking hotels, it was a testament that I could make what seemed impossible possible and that there was nothing to be afraid of. It was a lesson of great importance to me at that point in my life. This all took place in 2009, since then I have visited 46 countries on 6 continents. Traveling has given me a new sense of self, a new purpose and a new source of energy. Since that day my life turned around in unexpected ways. I started a business, paid off my credit cards, saved money along the way, bought my first investment property, met and married my husband and have loved every moment of this life! Here are the lessons I have learned from traveling so far: 1. Get Out of Your Comfort Zone Leaving home and heading to a foreign place or country can seem incredibly intimidating but it is just a perception. Perceptions are not always realities. That was by far my biggest hurdle to overcome. I was so sure that it would be difficult and expensive to travel that I didn’t even begin to look. With the help of the Internet today however, it is incredibly simple to research and read about a place that you are interested in visiting. Chances are someone has already been there and written about it. Just for fun search the following phrase online “things to do in (where you want to go)”…that alone should give you an incredible amount of information. Learning as much as possible about your destination will get you excited. Sometimes that is all it takes to get out of your comfort zone. Be brave, at least look and allow yourself to dream! That alone is a huge step forward. [caption id=“attachment_3624” align=“alignnone” width=“2992”] Looking down the crevice of the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentinian Patagonia[/caption] 2. Gain a New Perspective Our views and opinions are formed based on what we see, feel and experience. Venturing out into the world and gathering new experiences enhances our perspectives. It gives us a different or alternative point of view. It changes how we view the world and thus changes how we live our lives. Seeing how other people live and thrive in this world is truly amazing. Along with all the positive you get to witness some of the less than perfect lives people live. Every experience while traveling will give you one of two things, either an idea of something that will make your life more complete or an appreciation for what you already have. One thing I have learned is that when traveling I need to leave my opinions and assumptions at home. They will almost always be wrong! Travel open-minded and allow your destination to leave an impression on you. 3. Challenge Yourself and Become More Confident We face challenges at home and we do our best to resolve them. The most rewarding type of challenge in my opinion however is the challenge that you set for yourself and strive to accomplish. In my case, I set out to visit not one but five countries on my very first solo trip. As I looked into getting around from place to place, things to see at each destination etc, I realized that it was not that difficult since all the information I needed was online. I just needed to take some time and read it. Having all this knowledge at my disposal removed all the anxiety about taking the trip and replaced it with excitement about reaching my destination. Once at your destination continue to challenge yourself…try a new type of food, attempt a new activity, talk to a local. Once you get used to the idea of stepping outside of your comfort zone it will become almost second nature to you. You will realize that you are capable of so much more than you expected. As Vince Lombardi once said…“Winning is habit. Unfortunately, so is losing.” Constantly challenging yourself will help you get into the winning spirit of life. Intimidation is probably the single biggest reason why people do not make changes to things they want changed. Whether starting a business, running a marathon, switching jobs or any other aspect of your life that is not satisfactory to you, it takes guts and it takes desire to succeed. Travelling to a foreign country and realizing that I not only managed to survive but also enjoyed every moment of it, was a fantastic way to gain self-confidence. It lifted my spirits and jump started my spirit to live. 4. Learn To Let Go Just like being at home, when on a trip it is possible to get angry or to loose something. Given that we usually travel with a limited number of items, loosing a personal item seems quite devastating. Missing a plane or a bus can cause quite a bit of stress. Being on vacation does not eliminate the possibility of a mishap. In the end, it is all about how you handle it. Let’s say you missed your plane (been there, done that) the question becomes not so much why you missed it, but what will you do about it. Being angry over it won’t change the situation, but remaining calm and focused on what to do next will. Most recently in South Korea I lost my hat (the temperature outside was also around freezing). I remember being sad for about one minute. I had one more hat but if I had lost that one too then I would have just bought another one. Simple! Also remember that you are on vacation for a short time and you have to choose how to spend it! You can either spend days being angry or sad about it or you can choose to let go and continue to enjoy your trip. Remember that for the most part you are still in civilization. If you loose an item, you can replace it. If you miss a bus or a plane, there are other ones coming, don’t worry! The only thing you can’t replace is time lost agonizing over it. 5. Focus On The Present When going a trip, it is always important to remember that eventually you have to go home meaning that your time there is limited. Knowing that, choose to live and savor every moment. Being able to leave your worries and routines behind and living in the present will allow you to not only fully enjoy the destination but will also allow your mind and body to relax and re-focus. Many times we are stuck in the past or worried about the future and forget to live now. Remember that today is a gift, that is why it is called a “present”. If you have arranged a day tour ahead of time focus on the activities that day. If you have a day with nothing planned to do, then just go out and explore. Some of my favorite memories from traveling are the days when we aimlessly strolled and explored around the city. No plans, no agenda, no worries…just appreciate the pure joy and excitement to see and experience. Take a break and disconnect from daily routines like watching TV, reading the news and maybe even the Internet… 6. Have Something To Look Forward To What is life without dreams and goals? Both of which should bring you a sense of excitement and satisfaction. Planning a trip, long or short, domestic or international, gives me that excitement and satisfaction. I look forward to it so much that I become like a kid in candy store. Having something to look forward to makes it easier to get out of bed, easier to go to work, easier to deal with stress. It allows me to escape my everyday mundane life and daydream of what is ahead. I could not imagine a better goal/dream than one that is achievable and extremely gratifying. Anticipation is the first stage of finding and experiencing happiness. Don’t be afraid to try it, it really works! 7. Create Unforgettable Memories I heard once of a great way to escape a boring everyday life…take your mind back to a place that you really loved. Daydream a little! Look at a picture, listen to the music or just read about a place that you truly enjoyed and see your mood improve immediately. Today we use our phones to take pictures and that is fantastic for two reasons. One, creating a photo memory is so unbelievably easy (no fancy equipment required) and two, it is so utterly easy to access those photo memories. You pretty much have them at your fingertips at all times. I am no stranger to going back through my photo albums. The memories captured in those images bring back not just the visual, but also the emotional aspect of that trip. Hearing a certain song takes me back to the exact moment in time when I first heard it. As human beings in today’s world, we have such indispensable tools when it comes to capturing special moments in our lives. We just have to use them! 8. Expand Your Taste Palate One of my favorite things to do is eat! I love food and trying the local cuisine is one of the main reasons I travel. Granted, you can have various types of international food at home, but trust me it is not the same. Chinese food in the US and Chinese food (or just food) in China is completely different. Trying a local Indian curry, a couscous with heavenly spiced beef tagine in Morocco, homegrown tomatoes in Bulgaria or the exquisite Buddha Fruit hot tea of China will leave you wanting more. The delicious variety of food available throughout the world is mind blowing. If you don’t do and see anything else on your trip at least make a point to try some of the local food (you have to eat anyway)! The expansion of your palate will be exponentially enhanced to a point where you may notice your cooking habits at home also change. They have for me! It is hard to describe the satisfaction of a delicious meal, so skip the familiar large american chain restaurants and go local. You will not regret it! 9. Form New Friendships Being on the road is a great way to meet people. Whether on the plane, train, at your hotel, on a daily trip, hike or at the local bar or restaurant…the opportunities to meet people are endless. Every person I have ever met on the road had remarkable travel stories to tell. Hearing those made me want to visit those places so I did! If you don’t know where you want to go or what you want to see, don’t worry…just talk to a few people on your trip. They will be happy to tell you. You may also find that world travelers are generally very kind, easy going and so much fun to talk to. Talking to a local person will give you valuable insights into their way of life. It will give you a better understanding and appreciation for who they are and how they live. Talking to other travelers grants you the opportunity to meet some incredible people from all walks of life. Some of our best friends today, I have met while traveling. Don’t be shy! 10. Strengthen Existing Relationships Initially, I started traveling solo and that was awesome. I went places by myself, meeting some friends along the way. Later however, I met my husband and I have not only found a life partner, but an amazing travel partner. It has been wonderful to share those experiences with him. Traveling together, with friends, family or a partner is an invaluable part of a relationship. It is such a beautiful opportunity to get to know someone outside of their natural environment. You may discover a much more amazing side of someone you already knew. Being away from home can truly challenge how you handle wonderful as well as unexpected situations. Traveling puts you in predicaments where your sense of adventure, problem solving skills and tolerance for each other is put to the test almost daily. Going through a travel adventure together can truly strengthen your relationship and love for each other! 11. Move Forward Sometimes in our lives we are stuck in rut. It seems impossible to get out of. You feel like you are spinning your wheels. I have found that one of the best ways to move forward is to step back, take a breath, clear my mind and try again. Taking even a few days to see and experience something different away from your everyday life can really make all the difference. Many times the answer we are looking for is right in front of us, but we are afraid to make a move. Getting a mental break from the situation you are dealing with gives you a fresh perspective and the mental strength to move forward. Living a fulfilling life means moving forward. Sometimes just a couple of days are enough to reset your mind and give you the needed clarity to make a decision to move forward. Traveling is healing! 12. Be Happy Happiness is not a result or a consequence of an action but a state of being. Being happy and satisfied is a way of life. Over the years people have started to acquire more and more stuff, bigger and better houses and cars, more clothes and accessories and yet the general sense of happiness has declined. The consensus among experts is that experiences rather than material possessions create real happiness. I found that to be true once I started travelling. There is something pure and remarkable about travelling to a new place. The experience is different each time (not better or worse) but each time it brings me a sense of joy and unspoiled excitement. I couldn’t place a finger on why I was suddenly happier but I knew the feeling in my heart. Then I found a documentary called Happy and watching it confirmed that what I was feeling was true and real. Even today, just the idea of an upcoming trip or the reminder of a past journey truly brings happiness and emotions to my everyday life. This energy translates into a more productive, more focused and more sustainable life style for me. Live.Love.Travel…Be Happy! 13. Relieve Stress One of the biggest causes of diseases (mental and physical) is everyday stress. Sometimes we believe that if we just keep struggling along everything will work itself out but sometimes it doesn’t. Sometimes you have to make a conscious choice to step back and allow for your body to release the stress that you have built up inside. Being around what is causing you stress will not allow you fully get rid of it. Concentrating on something new and positive will give you that needed stress release. For many people that may be a hobby or meditation that allows you to relax and refocus…for me it is travel. An upcoming journey allows me to daydream or to escape a moment of stress. A past journey lets me relive a feeling by mentally visiting a place that made me happy. In either situation the result is the same…the ability to allow my mind to unwind and be positive. According to researchers, positive thoughts increase Serotonin, Endorphins, Dopamine and Oxycotin levels in our bodies which boosts our moods. This is probably why they are known as the Happy Hormones! Protect your mind and body by consciously making an effort to relieve stress. 14. Become More Creative Seeing and experiencing new places can really boost your creativity. Since starting my travels I have experienced a new sense of wanting to try and create new things. I have been inspired to make art and wine, to cook more and to read more and write. Seeing, tasting and experiencing various places and cuisines can really enhance your desire to re-create and re-experience those at home. Whether a spicy Indian curry, a bamboo work of art or a great glass of wine… I have found that having had these in my life I now miss them so I try to re-create them when possible. Every place you visit, near or far, will leave an imprint on your senses and a happy place in your heart and you may find yourself looking for it again and again. There is no better feeling than to be able to recreate a joyful moment from the past. 15. Gather Some Pretty Cool Stories Last but not least, travelling will inevitably leave you with some pretty cool stories…remember that time when you hiked a Patagonian glacier, hugged a Giant Panda in China and got to swim with the sharks in Bora Bora? Yes, those are all unforgettable memories. The beauty about travelling is that everyone’s story of the same place is always different. Travelling does not allow for dull and boring memories but rather for uplifting and teaching moments. You may loose your material possessions in this world, but you will never loose the feeling of having experienced something. At the end of the day, life is about more than just going to work, paying bills and watching TV. How well you live will not be determined by the number of hours you work or the amount of money you make, it will be determined by the experiences you collect that make you happy! Happiness is a journey, not a destination! Only you can make it happen and only you will know the true value it holds. Traveling is about experiencing the world. It does not depend on how luxurious or expensive your trip is but how meaningful it is to you and what your learned from it. There is also no right and no wrong age to travel. Go when you can, when you want or when you feel like it. A trip not taken is an opportunity for happiness missed. Happy travels!\n","permalink":"/blog/travel-to-live-15-lessons-i-learned-from-traveling/","section":"blog","summary":"I have always liked the idea of travel. For most of my life however it seemed impossibly expensive and extremely difficult to plan a trip. I always waited and hoped that someone would decide to go with me and help me plan but that hardly ever happened. During most of my 20s I was struggling financially, living paycheck to paycheck, hoping for a change. Finally, when I turned 30 something unexpected happened that pushed me to not be afraid and to take life into my own hands.","title":"Travel to Live...15 Lessons I learned from traveling..."},{"content":"Undoubtedly Italy is a country with so much to offer, from the Colosseum in Rome to the Venice canals, from the world famous pizza of Naples to the majestic mountains of the Dolomites. Nestled in the middle of all this is Tuscany, known for its stunning rolling hills covered by endless rows of wine grapes…famous for its world-class wines and delicious food! We spent 4 days in Florence and the surrounding areas and below is what we were lucky to see and experience. Florence, Italy is the capital on Tuscany and is home to some of Italy’s most famous landmarks including Michelangelo’s “David” statue, the Duomo basilica and the Uffizi Gallery. Florence is the epitome of Italian culture. [caption id=“attachment_5917” align=“alignnone” width=“2848”] Street View of The Florence Cathedral[/caption] The narrow cobblestone streets filled with small restaurants and cafes on every corner are right out of a romance novel. Wandering through the enchanting streets of Florence is like stepping into a living canvas where history, art, and culture converge. Cobblestone pathways wind through a tapestry of medieval architecture, leading you past charming cafes, centuries-old buildings, and vibrant markets. The air is infused with the scent of freshly brewed coffee and the distant notes of street musicians. As you stroll, you’re surrounded by the timeless beauty of Renaissance masterpieces, with iconic landmarks like the Ponte Vecchio and the Florence Cathedral looming in the backdrop. Each step feels like a journey through the pages of history, offering a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and the palpable energy of a city steeped in artistic legacy. The Arno river snakes through the entire city of Florence passing below the famous Ponte Vecchio and Santa Trinita bridges. If you are there on a hot summer day, grab a scone of creamy gelato and go for a walk across the bridges. The views are breathtaking and dreamy no matter which way you go. Many people go to Florence for the art, museums and Renaissance Florentine architecture. We however, being wine lovers, decided to visit the Tuscan countryside. What an experience! We booked a private wine tasting tour (so we didn’t have to drink and drive) and off we went exploring the beauty of Tuscany. Rolling hills covered with grape vines and olive trees lining the streets as far as the eye could see. The Italian wines did not disappoint either…aromatic reds and refreshing whites are the norm. We learned quite a bit about the Tuscan system of identifying and qualifying Italian wines. Tuscany has 33 Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) and 11 Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) classifications. These classifications were put in place in the 1960s to ensure that Italian wines met a high standard of wine production and quality. Restrictions were placed on the areas that the grapes can be from focusing primarily on the local grape varieties. You are probably familiar with the most famous Tuscan wines such as Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano which are primarily made from the Sangiovese grape. In the 1970s however a new type of wine emerged known as the “Super Tuscan”. These wines were made without strict regard for the DOC/DOCG regulations, however over the years they became high priced and highly valued wines. Our tour guide was fantastic and brought along an aroma bar to help us identify the various aroma and taste properties of each wine. Driving through Tuscany is like being in a fairy tale for wine lovers. You can literally drive for hours without seeing the end of the rolling hills, vineyards, Tuscan Villas and the occasional castle. It was a dream come true for us! Florence’s central location makes it ideal to see other parts of Tuscany on a one-day trip. Once again we decided not to drive in Italy, so we hired a tour to drive us around. Our first stop was the medieval city of Siena, Italy. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site it is famous for its fan-shaped central square called Piazza del Campo. It is a site for the popular Palio horse race of Siena held twice a year. The beautiful plaza is surrounded by medieval brick buildings, restaurants, cafes and people just hanging out and enjoying the location. This is a perfect place to people watch and soak in the beauty of this medieval city. While in Siena, Italy, one of our most memorable activities was to simply enjoy a cup of exquisite Italian cappuccino. On a side note, when getting a cappuccino at a local cafe you have the option to drink your coffee sitting at a regular coffee table or standing by a bar high table. If you decide to sit, your coffee may cost you upwards of 4 Euro/cup however, if you choose to stand by one of the bar high tables your cappuccino price goes way down to less than half in some cases. Fantastic deal! Besides strolling along the picturesque streets of Siena, Italy, if time permits, visit the Siena Cathedral. This beautiful cathedral was originally constructed in the 13th century and will mesmerize you with it’s detailed and intricate floor, wall and ceiling art. For lunch we stopped at a local organic farm and vineyard where the hosts had prepared a delicious meal for us. The meal was prepared with locally grown, organic ingredients from the farm. We got a tour of the vineyard and then sat down to a feast with an unforgettable view of our next destination, San Gimignano, Italy. San Gimignano, Italy is a beautiful hill top town famous for its stunning towers. Surrounded by a city wall, the small town has managed to preserve fourteen towers of various heights. Many have been destroyed over the years due to natural disasters, wars and urban development. If you are looking for something a little more out of the ordinary then maybe the Museo delle torture (Torture Museum) in San Gimignano, Italy would be of interest to you. Learn about some of the torture techniques used way back…what better way to experience the medieval times? Our final destination for the day was the city of Pisa, Italy famous for its leaning tower of Pisa. This world famous landmark is quite fascinating not because of its magnificent constructions but rather the lack thereof. Built with a faulty foundation the structure has been slowly leaning since it was completed in the 14th century. Efforts during this and the last century to correct the tilt have been partially successful. Let’s see for how long! Staying in Florence offers a variety of accommodations options. You can pick from a wide array of world famous large-chain hotels to more cozy boutique hotels to traditional Italian Villas. We opted for the traditional Italian villa with a spectacular view of the city. Torre di Bellosguardo is a stunning 13th Century resort located in the hills right above Florence. The view from the hotel is absolutely breathtaking. Each room is quite large, has its own character with antique furniture and modern bathroom. The property features a vast garden and an outdoor swimming pool. Aside from sightseeing Tuscany’s famous landmarks, one of our favorite activities was just a simple walk through the fields. Just a 20 min walk down the hill from our hotel was the city center. Few things can beat the peace, quite and beauty of a simple stroll through the Italian country side. While in Italy make sure to try some of their fresh produce available at small markets around town. It will be a delight to your taste buds and of course it makes for a beautiful photo. There are a thousand great reasons why you should visit Italy, but be sure to choose the ones that will make you smile the most. Don’t just visit the ones designated “must see” by the tour companies, follow your heart and see the ones off the beaten path. Sometimes those are the ones that will leave you speechless and steal your heart! Cheers!\n","permalink":"/blog/tuscany-italy-the-land-of-wine-cheese-and-beautiful-history/","section":"blog","summary":"Undoubtedly Italy is a country with so much to offer, from the Colosseum in Rome to the Venice canals, from the world famous pizza of Naples to the majestic mountains of the Dolomites. Nestled in the middle of all this is Tuscany, known for its stunning rolling hills covered by endless rows of wine grapes…famous for its world-class wines and delicious food! We spent 4 days in Florence and the surrounding areas and below is what we were lucky to see and experience.","title":"Tuscany, Italy...the land of wine, cheese and beautiful history"},{"content":"Being just a third of the size of the United States, India is amazingly the second most populous country in the world. India is also the largest democracy in the world. Its history and heritage go back thousands of years and there is no shortage of awe and fascination that surround the country of India. Before we get started, here are few interesting facts about India: 1. The Indian flag has three horizontal bands of color:\nsaffron for courage and sacrifice white for truth and peace green for faith, fertility, and chivalry While under British rule, India’s flag incorporated a wheel spinning in the center of the white band. Once the country gained independence, a Buddhist dharma chakra (wheel of life) replaced the spinning wheel. 2. India is the world’s largest producer of dried beans, such as kidney beans and chickpeas. 3. India has the largest postal network in the world with 150,000 post offices. 4. The Bengal tiger is India’s national animal. 5. Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism all originated in India. 6. India has the world’s largest movie industry, based in Mumbai. 7. The national fruit of India is the mango. 8. It is traditional to wear white, not black, to a funeral in India. 9. India is the world’s largest tea producer. 10. Indians made significant contributions to algebra, calculus and trigonometry. The decimal system was invented in India in 100 B.C. Another mathematical contribution of India was the concept of zero as a number. … It would be difficult to showcase India’s amazing sights in one post, so let’s start with Delhi and Agra, two of India’s biggest and most famous cities. On this particular trip we spent three days in Delhi, three days in Agra, followed by another day in Delhi before heading out to Kathmandu, Nepal. Following is a summary of our short but beautiful adventure and a taste of India and its history. Delhi (although referred by many as New Delhi) is the capital of India. New Delhi is only one part of a massive city. Old Delhi is a part of the city that dates back to the 1600s. It is home to the impressive Red Fort built in 1576, which served as the residence of the Mughal emperor for nearly 200 years until 1857. [caption id=“attachment_3434” align=“alignnone” width=“4288”] The Red Fort in Delhi India[/caption] The intricate details of the Red Fort interior are nothing short of incredible. The architectural style is a fusion of Persian, Timurid and Hindu building traditions and the result is beautiful. The Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands as an iconic symbol of India’s rich history and architectural grandeur. Located in the heart of Delhi, this colossal fortress was built during the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Constructed with red sandstone, the fort’s massive walls and intricate design reflect the opulence of Mughal architecture. The Lahore Gate serves as the main entrance, leading to a vast complex featuring impressive structures like the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) and the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience). The fort also houses the beautiful Moti Masjid and the Hayat Bakhsh Bagh, a charming garden. The Red Fort is not only a testament to India’s imperial past but also a cultural treasure that attracts visitors from around the world. The intricate details of the walls, ceilings, doors and just about anything on site are extraordinary. We just could not get enough of this beautiful architectural site. The more we saw, the more captivated we became by the sheer volume of details. Being accepting of all religions of the world, Delhi is also home to the largest mosque in India, known as Jama Masjid. Completed in 1656 AD, the mosque’s impressive courtyard can hold upwards of 25,000 people for worship. Walking the streets of Delhi is like entering a world that is unlike anything you have ever experienced before. The colors, the aromas, the rickshaws, the street-side merchants, the people, the monkeys and other animals that share the street with you…all of that converges in the large cities of India. Visiting Delhi, India, evokes a sensory and cultural tapestry that can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. The city’s bustling streets are filled with a vibrant energy, adorned with colorful markets, historic monuments, and a diverse array of people. The aromatic allure of street food mingles with the sounds of honking rickshaws and the call to prayer from ancient mosques. However, the city also grapples with the contrasts of modernity and tradition, from bustling markets to sleek malls. Navigating the chaotic yet captivating streets allows one to absorb the cultural mosaic that is Delhi, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. There is so much happening at any given moment that it is difficult to keep up. You just have to give up and go with the flow. Enjoy the euphoria and excitement of the city. You cannot escape! The beauty of India is not always luxurious but more often it is humble, colorful and simply different. If you have an expectation of what you think you will see and experience, leave that at home. The reality of India will be a hundred times more colorful, more aromatic, more surreal and more fascinating than what you could possibly imagine. India’s colors (and believe us there are many of them) are a representation of its vibrant multitude of outlooks, lifestyles, traditions, religions and cultures. Color is present in every aspect of one’s life in India, from food to clothing to home décor…the more colorful, the better, and we loved that! Of course India would not be the same without its street food. There are street vendors everywhere, selling local specialties…pani puri, samosas, aloo tikki, roti etc…Always be cautious when buying food street side…water quality and cleanliness requirements are often questionable. Being on an adventure however, calls for stepping outside of your comfort zone and doing something wild…like eating street food! While in India, you must take a rickshaw ride. It is an exhilarating experience to say the least. Rickshaws are a light two or three-wheeled hooded vehicles drawn by one or more people. They are abundant, easy to take and cheap. Sometimes you may see hundreds of them in the same area. Try this, stand around on a street in Delhi and look lost (like a typical tourist)…within seconds there will be 20 rickshaw drivers offering to take you places. We found ourselves in a rickshaw on a highway sharing the road with giant trucks, cars, camels, buffalo, cows, bikers, pedestrians and of course a few monkeys. Unbelievable! We were also fortunate to visit Gurdwara Bangla Sahib, the largest Sikh place of worship in Delhi. Gurdwara Bangla Sahib, situated in the heart of Delhi, is a revered Sikh temple known for its spiritual significance and architectural elegance. Originally a bungalow (bangla) belonging to Raja Jai Singh, it became a Gurdwara after Guru Har Krishan Ji, the eighth Sikh Guru, stayed here during a smallpox epidemic, providing solace and healing to the afflicted. The main prayer hall, adorned with golden domes and white marble, exudes serenity. The sacred Sarovar (pool) and the community kitchen, serving free meals to all visitors, exemplify the principles of equality and selfless service in Sikhism. Gurdwara Bangla Sahib stands as a symbol of religious harmony and compassion, welcoming people from all walks of life to experience its spiritual aura and the warm hospitality of the Sikh community. Be prepared to take off your shoes and socks and cover your heads in order to enter the premises. Initially a little bit apprehensive to walk around barefoot on the streets of Delhi, we got over it quickly and went on to explore this fascinating place of worship. The practice of not wearing shoes inside a Sikh temple, or Gurdwaras, is a sign of respect. It symbolizes humility and equality, as everyone enters the sacred space on equal footing, regardless of social or economic status. One of most remarkable things we learned it that the Gurdwara Bangla Sahib has a kitchen that operates daily and serves warm food to more than a 1000 people a day. What a wonderful thing to do in a city where so much of the population lives below the poverty level. There were hundreds of volunteers, known as sevadars, working tirelessly every day to prepare and cook vegetarian meals for anyone hungry. The community kitchen called “Langar” serves free meals to all visitors, regardless of their background. It embodies the Sikh principles of equality, selfless service, and community. What an amazing operation in the spirit of humanity and inclusiveness! On our way to Humayun’s Tomb we stopped to take a quick look at this amazing work of art, The Birla Mandir in Delhi, officially known as the Laxminarayan Temple. It is a prominent Hindu temple built by the industrialist Birla family. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, the temple showcases a blend of modern and traditional architectural styles. Completed in 1939, it features intricately carved sculptures, lush gardens, and a serene ambiance. The temple serves as a significant spiritual and cultural landmark in Delhi, attracting visitors with its architectural grandeur and religious significance. Our next destination was Humayun’s Tomb, the magnificent architectural masterpiece of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. Commissioned by Humayun’s wife Empress Bega Begum in 1569-70 it was the first ever structure to use red sandstone in such massive amounts. The red sandstone and white marble construction, along with intricate geometric patterns and ornate detailing are nothing short of breathtaking. This complex contains traces of Central Asian and Persian styles of Islamic architecture true to the origins of the designer, Mirak Mirza Ghiyas, a Persian architect. Humayun’s Tomb stands as a testament of the Mughal era’s artistic and architectural brilliance, influencing later Mughal architectural endeavors, including the iconic Taj Mahal. We could not leave Delhi without visiting the Lotus Temple. This flower shaped temple has become a prominent landmark in Delhi. It is an arrangement of 27 free-standing marble-clad “petals” that form the shape of the lotus flower. In Indian culture the lotus flower is a symbol of purity and resurrection, reason being that it rises from unclean water to blossom as a pure and uncontaminated flower. The Lotus Temple is not an ancient structure, but it is a striking architectural marvel and a Bahá’í House of Worship. Completed in 1986, this lotus-shaped structure is renowned for its serene ambiance and open to people of all faiths. Designed by Iranian architect Fariborz Sahba, the temple’s white marble petals gracefully unfold, resembling a lotus flower in bloom. The central hall, where visitors gather for prayers and meditation, is devoid of religious symbols, emphasizing the universality of the Bahá’í Faith. Surrounded by lush gardens and reflective pools, the Lotus Temple stands as a symbol of peace, unity, and architectural brilliance, attracting visitors seeking solace and spiritual contemplation. And then it was time to head south to Agra. Located about 131 miles (211 km) south of Delhi, Agra is where you will find the ivory-white marble mausoleum situated on the south bank of the Yamuna river…the Taj Mahal! Accessible by both car or train, we opted for the train ride. We purchased our tickets and that was easy…finding where our seats were on the train, not so easy. We held first class tickets and those offered a comfortable seat as well as food and water on the train. This was by far the most memorable train ride we have ever been on. We passed by villages where people lived in straw huts and the one and only bathroom area for the village was the train tracks themselves. Absolutely fascinating! No one using the “bathroom” appeared bothered by the passing train and passengers staring out the window. What a site! As I mentioned earlier, when visiting India, just go with the flow. Do not attempt to understand, relate or make sense of what you see. Just enjoy it for what it is, it will steal your heart! Finally we arrived in Agra and we once again had to share the street with alternative transportation methods… One of the most famous landmarks not just in Agra but in all of India and possibly the world is of course, the Taj Mahal. Commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The Taj houses the tomb of his favorite wife Mumtaz Mahal (yes, you read this correctly…favorite wife, because he had a few). Crafted from gleaming white marble, the Taj Mahal exhibits intricate craftsmanship, with delicate carvings, calligraphy, and symmetrical gardens surrounding the structure. Its symphony of domes, minarets, and the central mausoleum reflects a perfect blend of Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles. Renowned for its breathtaking beauty, the Taj Mahal stands on the banks of the Yamuna River, drawing millions of visitors each year to marvel at its timeless elegance and romantic history. [caption id=“attachment_5948” align=“alignnone” width=“4288”] The Majestic Taj Mahal in Agra, India[/caption] To this day considered one of the architectural marvels of the world. It took 22,000 workers 22 years to complete it. The marble masterpiece is inconceivable. The amount of detail that went into carving the intricate designs on all walls, ceilings, floors, etc. is mind-blowing. Do you notice the colorful details on the walls? This is not paint! The builders used as many as 28 different varieties of semi-precious and precious stones to adorn the Taj Mahal with the exquisite inlay work. The Taj Mahal is by far one the most elegant and awe-inspiring architectural wonders we have ever seen. It is magical! Looking to the right of the Taj Mahal there is the Jawab, which is an exact mirror image of the mosque located on the left side of the Taj. They were constructed to be exactly the same and as a mirror image to balance the bilateral symmetry of the composition. Another impressive site in Agra is the 16th century Agra Fort or maybe better referred to as a walled city. This 94-acre (380,000-square-meter) complex is extraordinary with its size and detailed craftsmanship. It is a collection of palaces, audience halls and two mosques.\nThe Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Agra, India, is a historic fortification with a rich architectural and cultural legacy. Constructed primarily during the reign of Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, it underwent expansions by subsequent Mughal rulers, including Shah Jahan. The fort’s red sandstone walls enclose a complex of palaces, mosques, courtyards, and gardens. Notable structures within the fort include the Jahangiri Mahal, Khas Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, and the iconic Moti Masjid. Agra Fort served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until the capital moved to Delhi. It stands as a symbol of Mughal grandeur, offering visitors a glimpse into India’s historical and architectural richness.\nOne of the most common animals that we encountered not just in the forts and temples, but also in the middle of every city, were the monkeys. They just live everywhere. You can feed them, but be careful not to get scratched. They also like to steal small items, so watch out for anything that is not attached to you (sunglasses, cell phone, water bottle, etc). They are cute but they can be viscous! [caption id=“attachment_5954” align=“alignnone” width=“4288”] People and Monkeys Co-Existing in India[/caption] If you can, definitely visit a Bollywood dance show. It is really that amazing! The colors, the music, the dances…truly one of a kind! Being the largest producer of movies in the world, India has perfected the art of synchronized dancing and hypnotizing dance choreography. We were lucky to be in Agra, India for New Year’s Eve and our hotel had a mandatory New Year’s Eve Party. We were tired from a day of sightseeing, but we attended nonetheless. Wow! What a way to welcome the New Year! The perfect ending to any day is to leave the hustle and bustle of the metropolitan city streets and to just sit back and relax by the pool… Though largely an impoverished country, India has some wonderful hotels allowing you the opportunity to recoup from your sensory overload experiencing the city. This country is an invigorating fusion for all five of our senses. We cannot wait to go back…there is something about India that stole our hearts…its mystery and intrigue are unsurpassed! [caption id=“attachment_3434” align=“alignnone” width=“4288”] The Red Fort in Delhi India[/caption]\n","permalink":"/blog/the-land-of-mystery-and-intrigue-india/","section":"blog","summary":"Being just a third of the size of the United States, India is amazingly the second most populous country in the world. India is also the largest democracy in the world. Its history and heritage go back thousands of years and there is no shortage of awe and fascination that surround the country of India. Before we get started, here are few interesting facts about India: 1. The Indian flag has three horizontal bands of color:","title":"The Land of Mystery and Intrigue - India"},{"content":"Situated high up in the Cuzco area of the Peruvian Andes, Machu Picchu is one of the most fascinating places we have ever been to. Nestled in the Andes Mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu stands as a testament of the ingenuity of ancient civilization. This awe-inspiring Incan citadel has captured the imagination of travelers and historians alike. “The Lost City of the Incas” is not just a spectacular site but also a mysterious one. How did the ancient Inca people move the rocks needed (which weigh tons) to build a city in this mountainous area and stack them so perfectly that even with today’s technology and machinery it is almost impossible to duplicate? Embark on a journey through time and terrain to unravel the secrets of Machu Picchu, an enduring symbol of ancient sophistication and natural beauty. Getting to this 15th century marvel is nothing short of an adventure. After travelling on planes and trains, by cars and a hike…we finally made it…and this is what we saw!\nThe journey started by arriving in Lima and from there flying into Cuzco. Once the capital of the Inca Empire and today a UNESCO world heritage site, Cuzco is a city filled with history and awe. Before heading into the Peruvian Andes, it is a must to visit Plaza De Armas and take a moment to enjoy the hustle and bustle of this beautiful town. If you have not booked permits online through the official government website ( https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe ), this is the place where you need to purchase them in order to enter Machu Picchu. Permits are not sold at the entrance and there are only a limited number of people allowed to enter each day to preserve the site. In order to manage the flow of tourists, you can choose between morning and afternoon permits. If you plan to include the iconic Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Hike in your visit, additional permits are required.\nFrom Cuzco you have a choice of taking the train or as we chose, to pay a driver to take you to Ollantaytambo, a small town in the Sacred Valley of Peru. The drive took about two hours and the roads were well maintained. Ollantaytambo is a historic town renowned for its well-preserved Inca ruins. Ollantaytambo served as both a fortress and a ceremonial center during the Inca Empire.\nOnce in Ollantaytambo we took the train to Aguas Calientes. This is a journey that should definitely be taken during the day. The train takes you through the majestic Andes and the views are spectacular whichever way you look…\nYou may even see the little, old Peruvian lady who came out to greet the train passengers…\nFinally, we arrived in the town of 1600 people, called Aguas Calientes (“Hot Springs”), and it does indeed have hot springs that you can visit…and, if you didn’t bring a swim suit, not to worry, you can rent one on every corner. I am not sure how I feel about wearing a used swimsuit that countless other people have worn, but it is an option! I recommend arriving in Aguas Calientes the day before you plan to visit Machu Picchu. There are some simple hotels/hostels available that you should book ahead of time. It is a very small town with various lively restaurants. This early arrival will give you a chance to rest for the evening before you embark on your Machu Picchu visit. From Aguas Calientes you have the option to either hike to Machu Picchu which is about 3.7 miles (6 kilometers) or you can take a bus that takes you almost to the site and you hike the remaining distance. We opted for the bus and as per suggestion of the locals, we took the earliest bus, at about 5am. The bus route was steep and windy…and at times scary, due to the narrow road…I was amazed at the skills of the bus driver to get us up the hill safely.\nAt last we arrived at the entrance and with our previously purchased tickets (you cannot buy tickets at the entrance) we hiked the last stretch to the magnificent marvel of the Andes, Machu Picchu.\nOnce at Machu Picchu you can embark on a number of other hikes to various parts of the Lost City. We went on the hike to the ancient Inca Bridge. The Inca Bridge showcases the Inca civilization’s innovative approach to infrastructure, blending natural elements with strategic considerations. The trail offers a scenic journey through the diverse landscapes, revealing various aspects of the Inca engineering prowess.\nWhat an unforgettable journey! It is hard to describe in words the feeling of experiencing something as amazing as Machu Picchu. The sheer size of the rocks used to construct the Inca ruins is inexplicable. Visiting Machu Picchu evokes a profound sense of awe and wonder. As you navigate the ancient stone pathways and absorb the breathtaking mountainous landscapes, a palpable connection to history and nature envelops you. The sheer scale and precision of Inca architecture inspire admiration, while panoramic views create a surreal atmosphere, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the ingenuity of a civilization that thrived in the midst of the Andes. It’s a blend of historical reverence and natural beauty that leaves an indelible mark, making the journey to Machu Picchu an unforgettable and enriching experience.\nOn our way back to Cuzco we chose to spend the night in Ollantaytambo before continuing on our adventure. We stayed at a place called Hotel Samanapaq and truly loved our experience there. The owners, husband and wife, were very hospitable and we loved their handmade pottery.\nOllantaytambo is a vibrant, little town with so much character. We loved the cobble stone streets and quaint side cafes, local market for hand crafted items and the Inca ruins located just up the hill. The town itself retains its Incan layout with narrow cobblestone streets and adobe buildings, creating a captivating blend of history and culture.\nWhat is the best time of the year to visit Machu Picchu?\nMachu Picchu, the ancient mountaintop citadel nestled high in the Andes mountains, is a mesmerizing destination that beckons travelers year-round. Whether you’re drawn by its rich history, breathtaking views, or the thrill of exploration, here’s when you should plan your visit:\nDry Season (April to October): Best Time: The dry season is the most popular period for visiting Machu Picchu. It typically runs from mid-April to the end of October. Weather: Expect cooler air, bright blue skies, and plenty of sunshine. This is when the site truly shines, allowing you to capture those iconic photos without rainclouds in the background. Crowds: While it’s busier during this time, the experience is well worth it. June, July, and August are peak tourist months, so plan accordingly. Rainy Season (November to March): Weather: During the rainy season, gray clouds, frequent rain showers, and occasional storms prevail. It rains nearly every day, but the upside is that temperatures are warmer. Crowds: Fewer visitors brave the rain, which means you’ll have more space to explore at your own pace. Pack: Don’t forget your rain jacket—it’s essential! Note: January through March are the absolute rainiest months. Year-Round Access: Machu Picchu is open to visitors throughout the year, so you can plan your trip based on your preferences. Consider factors like weather, crowd size, and how you want to get there (train or Inca Trail). We visited Machu Picchu in August, and the weather was perfect. It was cool and sunny, excellent for hiking and outdoor activities.\nRemember, every season has its charm at Machu Picchu. Whether you’re tracing the ancient footsteps of the Inca or simply soaking in the mystical atmosphere, this wonder of the world awaits your exploration!\nAll in all, this was one of our most memorable trips. The combination of adventure and historic sites along the way, topped off by the majestic site of Machu Picchu is simply unforgettable. We must have loved this place so much, that we ended up missing our plane from Cusco to Lima…oops! But that’s a whole other story….\n","permalink":"/blog/the-road-to-the-lost-city-of-the-incas/","section":"blog","summary":"Situated high up in the Cuzco area of the Peruvian Andes, Machu Picchu is one of the most fascinating places we have ever been to. Nestled in the Andes Mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu stands as a testament of the ingenuity of ancient civilization. This awe-inspiring Incan citadel has captured the imagination of travelers and historians alike. “The Lost City of the Incas” is not just a spectacular site but also a mysterious one.","title":"The Road to the \"Lost City of the Incas\"..."},{"content":"St Lucia…maybe not the most famous of the 7000 Caribbean islands, but in my opinion, definitely one of the most beautiful ones. With only 238.23 sq mi (617 sq km) this stunning island offers not just a variety of places for tourism, but it also produces an amazing variety of agricultural products etc. There multiple ways to get to the island, one is to fly into one of the local airports or via a cruise ship. Whichever way you choose to get to St Lucia, you will be greeted by the amazing coastline. [caption id=“attachment_5968” align=“alignnone” width=“4032”] Overlooking a Bay in St Lucia[/caption]\nWhen on the island, resting and relaxing at your hotel may sound wonderful, but taking a day tour around the island will give a true appreciation for the island and its culture. Starting with the local production of bananas and a variety of other citrus fruits, St Lucia has no shortage of fruits and vegetables for you to taste. Try some of the local breadfuit, five finger, soursop, pomme d’armour (Love Apple)…and of course bananas.\nAnd if you are tired of just plain, old bananas…then maybe you should have some of the locally produced banana ketchup. Yes! You heard correctly…and it does taste just like ketchup. As for us, we are very much a coffee and chocolate kind of people…and St Lucia didn’t disappoint. Local coffees and chocolates are available all around the island and they are indeed delicious. Both are produced on the island with locally grown ingredients. Enjoy while in St Lucia or take home as gifts…\nIf you are more of a movie buff, then a must see film location is Marigot Bay, situated along the west coast of the island. This was the location where the movie Dr. Doolittle was filmed.\nWe took some time to drive along the east coast of the island (the Atlantic side), which is not known for sandy beaches and big, fancy resorts, but what we came across was peace, quiet, serenity and spectacular vistas of the rocky coast line of St Lucia. Turquoise blue waters, tropical foliage and no tourists as far as the eye could see…perfect! Let’s just say you like to roll around in the mud…well that’s not a problem in St Lucia. While visiting the Sulphur Springs Park you can also take a mud bath. It is supposed to be good for your skin, according to the locals…well, we will take their word for it, but at the very least it looks like fun.\nAs many of the Caribbean islands, St Lucia has no shortage of beautiful resorts to stay at while on the island. One resort that is different than any other one in the world is Jade Mountain. Designed and build by architect Nick Troubetzkoy. Jade Mountain was designed to be a part of nature. Sweeping views of the pitons while lounging in your own private pool…can we say mesmerizing? If you are an early bird, like us…then nothing beats the view from your bed. And yes, if you are wondering, the rooms here are completely open…there is no wall!\nIf by any chance you get tired of your own private pool, then you can just head down the hill to the beach at the Anse Chastanet Resort…grab a drink beach side or just hang out and enjoy the moment.\nThis small but stunningly beautiful island is a true gem in a sea of beautiful islands.\n","permalink":"/blog/st-lucia-a-jewel-among-7000-islands/","section":"blog","summary":"St Lucia…maybe not the most famous of the 7000 Caribbean islands, but in my opinion, definitely one of the most beautiful ones. With only 238.23 sq mi (617 sq km) this stunning island offers not just a variety of places for tourism, but it also produces an amazing variety of agricultural products etc. There multiple ways to get to the island, one is to fly into one of the local airports or via a cruise ship.","title":"St Lucia...a jewel among 7000 islands"},{"content":"What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear China? Cheap products, huge population, panda bears? It is true that China has been the top exporter of goods in the world for years. China does also have a huge population of over a billion people (1.387 billion to be exact). An you would also be correct about the panda bears. China is home to the giant panda. They are found in the remote, mountainous regions of central China, in Sichuan, Shaanxi and Gansu provinces. Besides all of the above China is also home to some of the most spectacular man-made architecture and infrastructure in the world as well as some of the most stunning natural formations. According to estimates, China encompasses an area of 3.705 million sq mi (9.596 million sq km), slightly larger than the USA. With that in mind seeing all that China has to offer in one trip is almost impossible. So here are the 5 areas we picked to start exploring China: Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, Guilin and Shanghai. We will call it the Golden Circle of China.\nBeijing, China We started our trip in the northern part of China with visiting the massive city of Beijing, capital of the People’s Republic of China. The rich history of Beijing is mind-boggling spanning over a period of 3 millennia. Beijing currently has a population of over 21 million people and is home to the Forbidden City, the Imperial Palace of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. According to legends the palace contains 999 1/2 rooms. Built between 1406 to 1420 and now an UNESCO World Heritage Site the palace museum is over 180 acres (72 ha). Beijing is also home to the Royal Summer Palace. Apparently, a massive palace in the middle of the city was not sufficient for the royal family, so they built a summer palace complete with picturesque hillsides, extravagant pavilions and beautiful lakes. Since 1949 the People’s Republic China has been under communist rule. The Great Hall of the People is the administrative and ceremonial center of the Chinese government. Located around the corner from Tiananmen Square (“Gate of Heavenly Peace”) famed by a number of political events and protests over the years. Beijing is also a great access point to see the famous Great Wall of China. Stretching and amazing 5,500 miles (8,800 km) it took over 2000 years to complete this man-made world wonder. Within a couple of hours driving from city center you can visit various parts of the wall with Badaling being the closest one and also the busiest section of the wall. This part of the wall is fully restored and easy to access, however expect to see thousands of people visiting too. Mutianyu is a little further away, also fully restored and extremely busy. We wanted to escape the touristy areas, so we decided to visit a part of the wall called Jinshaling. This section is located about 2 1/2 hours drive from Beijing. The hike we completed at the Great Wall was approximately 6 miles (10 km). The day before our hike it had snowed in the area, which made our hike that much more strenuous. The views however were spectacular! This section of the wall is only partially restored so in parts you can still see the original pieces of the wall. Xi’an, China Just over 2 hours by plane southwest of Beijing in the Shaanxi Province where the city of Xi’an is located. Xi’an is one of the oldest cities in China as well as the oldest of the four capitals of China. It is also considered a mega-city with a population of over 13 million people. The city center of Xi’an is surrounded by the most complete city wall to survive ancient Chinese history. Today the wall stands 40 ft (12 m) tall, 40-46 ft (12-14 m) wide at the top and 50-60 ft (15-18 m) thick at the bottom. It runs for about 8.5 mi (13.7 km). It offers sweeping views of the city and the surrounding areas. The city of Xi’an is also famous for what you may know as the Terracotta Soldiers (Terracotta Army). About 1 hour drive from city center lies the funeral site of the first Emperor of China. Before his death he commissioned his servants to build him a terracotta army complete with horses and carriages. It’s purpose was to protect him in the afterlife. In 210–209 BCE the Emperor was buried along with an estimated 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses and 150 cavalry horses. The amount of detail to the face, body and clothing of each statue is incredible. The project of excavating and reconstructing the statues is far from over, so no one knows exactly the size of this massive “burial” site. Chengdu, China Another 1 hour and 45 min by plane further southwest is the city of Chengdu in the Sichuan Province. Besides the acclaimed and intensely flavorful cuisine of Sichuan, the area is most famous for being home to the Giant Panda. A number of Panda Research bases are spread throughout the province offering people a rare glimpse into the life of this incredible animal. We opted for volunteering at the Dujiangyan Base (not all research bases offer volunteering). For more detailed information about volunteering at the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, Dujiangyan Base please read our article Volunteering at a Panda reserve in China. Chengdu is an extremely large metropolitan city however pockets of the city have been preserved for it’s ancient architecture. One such area is Wenshufang. It is an easily accessible area worth exploring for food, souvenirs and to simply enjoy the look and feel of traditional Chinese architecture. While in the Wenshufang area stop by and visit the Wenshu Yuan Monastery also known as the Manjushri Monastery. Originally it was built during the Sui Dynasty (605 BC-617 BC) then destroyed by fire and rebuilt in the 17th century. The monastery features a vegetarian restaurant with beautiful outdoor seating underneath giant trees. You may also see local artist drawing or playing music. Take some time to walk around the premises. The vibrantly colorful structures, picturesque ponds and beautiful walkways make for an excellent and very relaxing experience. Guilin, China We continued our journey southeast towards Guilin (1 hour 45 min flight from Chengdu). This “smaller” city (975,000 urban and 4.7 million total population) is located in Southern China and is famous for it’s dramatic limestone karst hills. The city is located along the famous Lijiang River (Li River). The most popular sightseeing activity in Guilin is taking a river cruise south on the Li River towards the town of Yangshuo. You can spend the day on a boat leisurely enjoying the spectacular landscape or you can choose to do a part car/part boat day tour. We chose a car/boat private tour and our first stop was a private Li River Cruise on a small raft. Surrounded by endless karst formations as far as the eye could see the view was simply amazing! Later we climbed a hill to get a glimpse of this natural wonder from above. Absolutely unbelievable! There was no end to these beautiful limestone formations. We ended the day with a walk around West Street in Yangshou followed by a picturesque bamboo raft ride down the Yulong River passing underneath the over 500 year old Yulong bridge**.** On day two in Guilin our guide took us on a 2 1/2 hour drive outside of Guilin to the Longsheng (Longji) Rice Terraces**.** Located high up in the mountains about 2,000 ft - 2,600 ft (600 m -800 m) above sea level. The small villages in the area are fully self-sustainable and everything produced is for local consumption. It was unbelievable to see what people with limited resources have been able to create in these mountainous regions of China. Shanghai, China Our last stop in China was the mega-city of Shanghai with a staggering population of over 24 million making it the most populous city in the world. This extremely modern and fast-paced city is simply amazing. From riding the high-tech Maglev train to admiring the famous skyline of Shanghai (The Bund) this city is nothing short of amazing. Mixed among the ultra-modern buildings are ancient temples making the city a dynamic and historically significant hub of mainland China. The city’s skyline is beautiful day and night. Some days due to air pollution which causes poor visibility the skyline becomes almost invisible. Hard to believe, but it is true. If the city seems too modern and you need something a little more traditional, just head out about 1 1/2 hours outside of Shanghai city center. There you will find the famous for it’s canals ancient water town Zhouzhuang Ancient Town known as the “Venice of the East”. The history of this picturesque little town goes back about 900 years. Some of the houses and bridges date back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties over 500 years ago. Visiting Zhouzhuang Ancient Town is a wonderful way to spend the day escaping the hustle and bustle of the mega-city Shanghai. As you can see China’s rich history and beautiful nature offer so many various opportunities to experience Chinese culture. Seeing it all in one visit may be a stretch, but not seeing any of China at all would be a loss to experiencing life. Outside of the large metropolitan areas hardly anyone speaks English making it challenging but also interesting to accomplish simple tasks like getting food. China is guaranteed to stretch your imagination and take you out of your comfort zone. ","permalink":"/blog/china-the-land-of-over-a-billion-people/","section":"blog","summary":"What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear China? Cheap products, huge population, panda bears? It is true that China has been the top exporter of goods in the world for years. China does also have a huge population of over a billion people (1.387 billion to be exact). An you would also be correct about the panda bears. China is home to the giant panda. They are found in the remote, mountainous regions of central China, in Sichuan, Shaanxi and Gansu provinces.","title":"China, the land of over a billion people"},{"content":"\nMimski is my adventurous spirit! It is a side of me that may get into trouble but will have a great story to tell afterwards. Mimski is a place where I share my travel advice. My travel style is casual sometimes on a budget with a hint of luxury and a pinch of history. LATEST STORIES\nContinue to Blog\nSubscribe Subscribe to my email newsletter full of inspiring stories about my journey that continues.\nContact\nPrivacy\nTerms \u0026 Conditions\n","permalink":"/home/","section":"","summary":"Mimski is my adventurous spirit! It is a side of me that may get into trouble but will have a great story to tell afterwards. Mimski is a place where I share my travel advice. My travel style is casual sometimes on a budget with a hint of luxury and a pinch of history. LATEST STORIES\nContinue to Blog\nSubscribe Subscribe to my email newsletter full of inspiring stories about my journey that continues.","title":"Home"}]