A Traveler's Mind

Interesting Travel Stories that Caught My Attention

2012-01-16T09:52:00.000-06:00

Since I read the news all day long, I thought I would post some of the interesting travel stories that I have come across recently.

Costa Concordia Disaster
If you haev not been paying attention to the news lately--or you just live under a rock--a Costa Concordia luxury cruise liner shipwrecked off the coast of Italy, killing at least six passengers. This article talks about what caused the event and how authorities, travelers and Carnival are reacting.

The Latest Powder Adventures
New innovations, excursions, and excitement on the slopes this year!!

Gyms with great views
Fitness. Travel. All in one. I'm a total gym rat, so this article definitely caught my attention.

Cupcake confiscation
We all know that we can't bring liquids through security, but food has always been acceptible. So why can't you take a cupcake in jar form through TSA checkpoints?

Gayest cities in America
This article stirred up a little bit of controversy, through I can't imagine why. (sense the sarcasm.)

How much change is left behind at security checkpoints?
You will be shocked to know how much money we end up leaving behind at security as we're rushing to catch our flights. It is staggering! And where does it go? The TSA! I think it could definitely be put to better use.
Emigration hot spots
So if you could live in any other country than the one you currently live in, where would you live? This articles talks about some of the most popular places for Brits to emigrate to. Bonus: my company is quoted!

Virgin America: Hip and broke
Since the trendy Virgin America launched five years ago, it has had only one profitable quarter. Even though it has been operating most of its professional life in the red, it continues to expand.

Those are just a few of the articles that I felt compelled to pass along to my readers. If I find any other noteworthy news stories, I will be sure to post them here, or perhaps write a longer piece about them if they really tickly my fancy--yes, I did just write that!

And feel free to send me any travel stories that you find, I am always interested!

Why Croatia? The Wine...Of Course

2012-01-05T16:17:00.000-06:00

It has been predicted that Americans will travel farther and spend more in 2012, with long-hauls to Europe, Asia and Australia already up for the year. And when travel agents were asked to pick the top up-and-coming international destinations, over a third of them said Croatia.

There are some obvious reasons why agents chose Croatia: its timeless treasures, breathtaking seaside views from rocky coves, throbbing nightlife, angelic forests, picturesque mountain waterfalls, baroque architecture, storied history, dynamic culture and delectable dishes. But one aspect of the country that does not get as much hype or attention is its wines.

A little background. Croatia's wine history dates back to the Ancient Greeks, and wine production has been going on in the southern regions for over 2,000 years, so clearly it has deep roots and experience in viticulture. Talk about impressive credentials. Many traditional grapes still live on in Croatia, and many of the wineries have introduced modern technology and techniques in order to bring out the very best of those grapes.

Plavac Mali. Credit: Snooth.com

According to an article in Bloomberg, under Yugoslavia's communist rule, Croatia was forced to destroy more than 160,000 hectares--a unit of land surface equal to 2.5 acres--of vineyards. The war with Serbia in the 1990s ruined thousands more of the fertile land. Economic and ethnic turmoil in the country caused Croatia to fall behind in the saturated global wine market, a sad setback for a country that used to make 650 different wines. However, it has more than double the vineyard land that New Zealand has, posing it as a real competitor in today's industry. It also helps that California's popular varietal zinfandel is a variant of Croatia's plavac mali--or "little blue"--meaning it has a flavor complex that millions of people will enjoy.
In the last 10 years, Croatia has opened many wine roads as a major part of its gastronomy tourism efforts. Most of them have opened in Central Croatia, mainly in the northwest areas and Moslavina. And while they are very busy all year round, the fall harvest time is most interesting to witness. Croatians are proud of their heritage, and enjoy celebrating their various traditions. November 11 is St. Martin's Day, the final and most important holiday of the year for winegrowers. It is when farmers christen the young musk and its transformation into wine. The country throws many festivals in honor of this day, and the events include a number of local customs.

Clearly, Croatia has a long-standing wine history, so why don't more people drink its products? Well, as of right now, it only ships about 5% of its 60 million litres of wine out of the country, which means most of the good stuff remains within the borders. The solution? Go there!

But where exactly should you go? Croatia has over 300 wine regions, and a very strict classification system that guarantees a wine's proper origin. Some of the best wine production can be found on the Dalmation islands, and there are a number of top wineries and vineyards that dot the countryside in the Peljesac Peninsula. Here is where you will find Grgic Vina, the Croatian counterpart to the acclaimed American winery Grgich Hills. Other areas in the Coastal region are Istria, in the north, where the focus is fruity white wines, with most being made from the Malvazija grape.

The Continental wine region stretches along the Drava and Sava rivers, and production is focused on white wines. Slavonia is the best-known area, and the most common grape planted there is Grasevina, which creates light, refreshing and crisp wines.

Zinfandel grape. credit: snooth.com

I could continue to list all the wine regions of Croatia, but I find that would get rather old and tedious. Instead, I recommend finding a good travel guide book or doing a little research online before deciding where to go. But do not limit yourself to one location, because then you'll be missing out on some truly incredible wines. Find the places that make varieties that fit your taste, and then make a plan to try to hit all the wineries in those regions...a true Croatian wine tour. (Perhaps this will be my next project.)

With its vast expanse of land, wide grape variety and ideal climate, Croatia has more than enough options for you to choose from when it comes to wine. No matter what area you visit, you will more than likely find a fantastic vineyard nearby that provides tastings, tours and bottles for sale. Croatia has been slow to market its wines outside of the country, and not many people in the U.S. have had the privilege of trying them--which is a real shame. However, this can easily be remedied by those who are willing to take a long journey abroad.

Croatia has always been on my list of destinations, and with this newly acquired knowledge about its wines, I have even more reason to plan a trip there--sooner rather than later.

Enjoying "The Layover"

2012-01-03T16:16:00.000-06:00

What can you do during a long layover? And when I say long, I am not referring to the standard five hours spent at Heathrow Airport. I am talking about an overnight stay, usually between 24 and 36 hours, where there is time to pick up luggage, check-in to a hotel and see a bit of the city. What are the key places you should hit in San Francisco? Where are the can't-miss places to dine in Amsterdam?

All these questions and more are answered in my new favorite show on television, "The Layover" with Anthony Bourdain on the Travel Channel. In the series, Bourdain has between 24-48 hours to tell a story about a city, its people, culture and food. As a seasoned traveler, with many connections around the globe, he is able to provide some of the most exclusive and interesting insight and tips about any given city. It basically helps travelers make the best of their downtime, encouraging them to get out of the airport hotel and into their stop-over city.

The show has been on the air for over a month now, and Bourdain has hit some of the biggest and most impressive cities in the world, including New York, Montreal, San Francisco, Singapore, Miami, Rome, Hong Kong and Amsterdam.

The Amsterdam episode premiered last night, and what made it extra special for me is that I have actually been there, so I recognized a lot of the places Bourdain visited. I loved the different ways he described the city, and found myself actually laughing out loud at many of the comments he makes. Like when he is in a traditional Brown Cafe, the dutch equivalent of a British pub, and when the crowd starts to sing an old drinking song, Bourdain says: "I feel like I got high and ended up in the middle of a rogue production of Annie." If you have ever been to Amsterdam, you definitely get what he's talking about. I truly appreciate Bourdain's adept observations and witty banter, and I have admired his writing style for years. I hope to one day develop those same skills in my own travel writing, and I think getting a few more trips under my belt may just help in that department.

As far as the places he chose to highlight, I give him credit for locating the old, unique, hidden gems of Amsterdam, places that few tourists think to go or can even find in a short amount of time. While he only has 36 hours, he manages to fit in an awful lot, probably because Amsterdam is relatively small and easy to get around, especially if you take a ferry or ride a bike--which Bourdain recommends. "In Amsterdam, bikes, crappy old bikes actually, are kings of the road," he says. "Even cars fear them. You better look both ways." If I ever make it back to Amsterdam, I fully intend on visiting the Café Int Aepjen, one of the oldest bars in the city. The little tidbit that Bourdain shared that I found most interesting was the name's origin. It was an old sailor bar and if a customer couldn't pay for his room, he would give them a monkey he collected during his travels, hence the name "in the ape." It's these strange facts that give a city its character.

I also hope to visit the Upstairs Pancake House, credited with some of the most interesting pancake concoctions around, and the source of a line from a Beastie Boys song: "Whne I'm in Holland, I eat the pannekoeken." It is located in the center of the city, but is difficutl to find, since it is so small. Once upstairs, you will find a small room with only four tables, so it's probably best to get their early, or you will most likely have to wait. Although, Bourdain did not really talk about the hours or seating situation. As far as the pancakes, you should probably ask about the daily special before ordering, since it changes all the time. The pancakes are made fresh with fruit, cream, bacon, cheese and an assortment of other ingredients. I used to be a big pancake eater, but my taste for the delightful breakfast dish has waned in recent years. This place could just reinvigorate my appetite for these sweet, decadent disks of fluffy batter.

One thing I will not be trying in Amsterdam--which is apparently a local delicacy--is pickled herring. I'm usually one for trying the local fare, at least once, but that just does not sound appetizing at all. So I'll be giving that a miss and heading over to Three Little Bottles to try--as Bourdain calls them--"indigenous beverages." The bar has been open since 1650 and nothing has really changed since then. Here is where you can get a real taste of an Amsterdam original: Jenever, a dutch liquor. There is an art form to drinking the intoxicating liquid. The bartender fills a small glass to the brim, and you must sip off the top without touching the glass at all, only then can you pick up the glass and finish off the liquor. Bourdain desscribed it as a gin, which I admit is not my alcohol of choice. But for the sake of experimentation, I would certainly order a round--or two--espeically since it is so unique to the region. And as the Dutch say, if it isn't made in Holland, it ain't real jenever.

One fun fact that I was not aware of until I watched the show was how popular Indonesian food is in Amsterdam. But it makes sense, since the Dutch held control of Indonesia well into the second World War. During that time, locals from the country would bring over some of their cultural traditions, as well as their food. Bourdain and his friends head to Tempo Doeloe in Centrum, one of the best Indonesian restaurants in the city. According to the waitress, and Bourdain's friends, the best option is to pick a number of small items and sample each one along with a plate of rice. It allows a guest to taste a variety of flavors--and spice levels--in one sitting, rather than choosing only one dish. Bourdain is pleasantly surprised at the spiciness of some of the dishes, which only made me more eager to try this place, because I like my food hot!

While I love the show and everywhere Bourdain chooses to go, I do have one small complaint. He spends very little time talking about anything other than food. I know that Bourdain's background with food and cooking plays a big role in his television shows, but as someone who travels, I would like to see more of a city than just its restaurants, bars and cafes. Obviously, food is a major part of a city's culture, heritage and history, and it certainly reveals a lot about a place. However, there are other things that show the history and customs of a place, such as architecture. And what about shopping? Tourists like to shop, and I personally love checking out a city's shopping district. Tiny boutique shops hold some amazing treasures, and even some of the commercial shops have some fun artifacts and items.

Dam Square

Amsterdam is compact, so it is easy to see a lot in a short amount of time, even on foot. Although the tram system is very convenient, which Bourdain points out in the show. You can also see a great deal of the city on aboard Museumboot Canal Cruises, which allows you to hop on and off at any stop. A few attractions that Bourdain discusses are Vondelpark, an English-style park that is the largest of its kind in the city. It is a great place to take a relaxing walk, enjoy a picnic, or even a free summer concert at Openluchttheater. Dam Square and Kononklijk Paleis are two sites that you really cannot miss when visiting Amsterdam. The Paleis, or royal palace, was built in 1655 and was the town hall until it was renovated to look like part of a royal residence. The Dam Square is a bustling area filled with tourists and numerous street performers. There plenty of museums, and most guests will hit the Anne Frank Huis and Van Gogh Museum. Bourdain points out that the Anne Frank House is always crowded and the line is exceptionally long, two factors you do not want to deal with when on a time crunch.

Clearly, Amsterdam has a lot to offer tourists, and it can be difficult to decide exactly what to do with your limited layover time. The best advice: If you know you have a long layover somewhere, do a little research before your trip to select a few key sites you want to see, and focus on those attractions/restaurants/museums, rather than wandering aimlessly.

"The Layover" certainly helps in this arena, because it takes care of a lot of the guess work for you. So I recommend checking out the show, if for no other reason than to get some good ideas and hear about some places that may not show up in a guide book or online.

Check out this link to see some pictures from the Amsterdam episode.

The New Year has Arrived!

2012-01-03T13:54:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year!!

I hope that you all had a fantastic New Year's Eve/Day celebration, saying goodbye to--what I would consider--a rollercoaster 2011, and welcoming a promising 2012!

Now is the time to put everything from the last year behind us and look forward to the year ahead. As many of you begin your resolutions--whether they are new ones or ones that you vow to keep every January 1--I wish you the best of luck with your endeavors.

As for me, I will continue to provide insight, tips, news and opinions about travel, and, hopefully, boost my own travel writing portfolio with more freelance work and professional trips (I'm crossing my fingers on this last part).

For those of you who plan to heed my advice from the last post and take a trip somewhere new and exciting this year, here is a list of some of the top destinations for 2012. I hope this gives you some inspiration for your travels this year, I know it has certainly got me thinking about places I would like to go.

I am excited to start this next chapter, and hopefully my faithful readers will keep tuning in and reading my posts. As always, I love suggestions and comments, so feel free to post your thoughts!

Cheers to 2012!!

Resolve to Travel

2011-12-29T14:07:00.000-06:00

The New Year is almost here and the inevitable question has mostly likely graced your ears over the last week: What's your New Year's resolution?

I dread this question because I always have way too many things I want to do--or stop doing. I mean, there are the go-to options: work out more, eat healthier, join a book/cooking/art club, turn off the television more often, learn to sew, save more money, cook more often, etc. I usually try to have two resolutions--mostly because I'm a bit of an overachiever--but also because there is one resolution that is pretty much a constant in my life. I resolve to travel somewhere I have never been every year.

I have managed to accomplish that goal the last two years--South Africa in 2010; Edmonton and Myrtle Beach in 2011. So where will I go this year? I have a lot of destinations on my list, so the first task is narrowing it down to options that are plausible for me this year. Obviously, I have to take a lot into consideration: money, time, prior engagements. There are certain weekends that are blocked out for special events or friend visits or whatever else might be going on. And then I always have to think about how much flights will cost, if I have to pay for a hotel or if I can stay with a friend or relative. As much as I would love to go somewhere abroad, this year might be too packed with weddings and bachelorette parties and other such events that I would not be able to afford it. So something within the U.S. may have to suffice. Off the top of my head, I'm thinking Maine or Seattle. I know people who live in both places, so accommodations would be taken care of, and flights might not be too pricey, depending on when I go.

This will certainly take some more thought as it is not something I should decide on a whim. As for the other resolution, I haven't figured that one out just yet. I have mulled over the idea of cutting back on chocolate, but we all know that won't happen. I will report back on my final goals for 2012, but until then, feel free to share your resolutions. If you could pick one place to travel in 2012, where would you go?

Flying Solo for Christmas

2011-12-21T13:57:00.000-06:00

Credit: festivaladvices.com

The holiday season is in full swing! We are less than a week away from Christmas, and everyone is hustling to finish off all their last minute shopping, trying to find that perfect gift for everyone on their list. I picked up the final gift for my mom today during my lunch break, and I am proud to say that I have officially finished all my shopping. Others are not so lucky. I have a lot of friends still scrambling to get it all together before Sunday, and many are coming to me asking for ideas or suggestions for parents, syblings and significant others. I cannot give much insight anymore on the last one, so I usually suggest jewelry or a watch, or maybe a picture frame with a sentimental photo.

It can be difficult to be alone during the holidays, especially when everyone else seems to be settled comfortably in serious relationships. But instead of getting down about it, I've decided to look at the brighter side of flying solo this Christmas.

One big positive is that I can use the money I would have spent on a gift for him to buy more things for my family and friends. Or better yet, a gift for myself. Thisyear, I used the extra cash to buy a couple small items for my parents in addition to their larger gifts, and two housewarming gifts for my friends. As for me, there might be a couple new pairs of errings in my jewelry box, as well as a couple cute holiday tops for special occassions. And why not? I deserve a treat, too! If you think about it, I'm just following along with the majority of Americans this year who have decided to go the route of self-gifting.

Also, there is no need to feel pressure about getting his family something for Christmas. I would say that's definitely something most single people can agree on.

Being single around the holidays means I can pick and choose the various activities I want to partake in--holiday parties, shopping adventures with girlfriends, zoo lights, Christmas festivals and craft shows--without worrying about catering to what he wants to do. It gives me the chance to branch out and meet new people, experience different things and discover more about myself.

I already have my plans for Christmas in order, but if I didn't, I would most likely take a trip to some exotic location. And since I don't have to worry about what anyone else wants, it can be to a place that I really want to go. While many of you might think it is depressing to travel alone at Christmas, there is also something very empowering and liberating about it. Solo travel--as I have talked about before in this blog--is definitely something that everyone should do at least once in their lives. It gives you the ability to handle a trip all on your own (courage and independence, anyone?) and the freedom to explore all the places and do all the things that you want to do. The experience around the holidays is even more rewarding, because you are going against the grain. And even though you may be choosing to spend time alone, who is to say that your will actually end up by yourself. You never know who you'll meet! And travel tends to bring people together in mysterious ways.

Another positive thing to note about the holidays is that you're never actually alone. Christmas is a time when people get to spend time with their families, the people they care about the most in the world. I am one of those lucky people that get to go home and see my family and friends. I will be surrounded by the people I love and who love me, so there is no way I could possibly feel sad!

P.S. Who knows who will be waiting for your under the mistletoe this year!

First Experience Flying Southwest

2011-12-21T10:39:00.001-06:00

"Bags fly free!" "No change fee!" "No blackout dates, no red tape!"

credit: Businessweek

If you watch television on a regular basis--or travel a lot--you know that these are the common catchphrases of Southwest Airlines, probably America's most popular budget carrier. Many of you have flown Southwest and have your own opinions about them. So now it is finally my turn to weigh in.

I recently returned from my Christmas vacation back in Denver, and I had the opportunity to experience Southwest for myself for the first time. Obviously, I had all the flashy advertisements running in my head, as well as the many comments from my friends and coworkers who have flown with them, but I had to push that all to the back of my mind and go into the whole trip with as clear and unbiased an opinion as possible.

On the day that I flew out of Chicago, I went online to check-in for my flight. I am accustomed to having a reserved seat, so the whole process was a little different for me. At first I was confused as I glanced at the boarding pass. Seating A, position 19. What does that mean? Also, after I printed my boarding pass, there was no button or link to say that I had completed the check-in process. I was sure that if I hit the link that said "return to previous page" that the whole thing would void out and I would have to try again. Yet there was no indication on the previous page that anything was wrong, so I assumed I had done it correctly, though I wish it had been clearer. When I checked the status of my flight--which was scheduled to leave at 6:00 p.m.--the website said there was a 40 minute delay. This was at 8:30 a.m. At first I was irritated that they could predict so early that the flight would be late, so I investigated earlier flight options, but they were all booked. Luckily, I checked back a few hours later and it had changed to a 10 minute delay...much better.

As far as checking bags, that could not have been easier. (It also helped that there were no lines at Midway Airport.) I just went up to the kioks, scanned the barcode on my boarding pass, selected the number of bags I was checking, and the attendant placed the sticker on my suitcase and I was on my way. Less than five minutes, I can handle that.

The boarding process was certainly different. I have flown on airlines that do not have seat assignments, but those were all in Europe--Ryan Air, EasyJet--and the system was pretty unorganized. With Southwest, it was slightly more coordinated, but still a bit of a jumble. I had opted to pay a little extra to make sure I was in the first seating group--which I highly recommend. When they called for seating A, I headed up to the numbered poles that were lined up near the gate. Since there isn't anyone around to make sure people are in the proper order, you have to trust the people around you, and I was pleasantly surprised that no one tried to hop in front of anyone else or claim they had a higher number so they could go ahead. We stood in line for a few minutes, which I didn't mind, but many of my fellow travelers were growing impatient. At this point, we were still scheduled to leave 10 minutes late, but if we boarded fast enough, it could have been sooner. The Southwest employee working at the gate announced that positions 1-30 would be boarding, so we all began filing through the door. A young man ahead of me was a little confused by the process, and was unsure if he was in the right place. The employee was very pushy, urging him along and not answering his questions. I understood he was trying to speed up boarding, but he was definitely a little rude to passengers.

Once on the plane, I grabbed the first aisle seat possible and waited patiently as everyone else boarded. I was impressed with how quickly people got on the plane, tossed their bags up and sat down. I think everyone got on in about 15 minutes, which I had never experienced before. I thought we had a good chance of leaving close to on time, worse case a couple minutes late. However, we ended up sitting at the gate for another 15 minutes. The reason? Our bags. Indeed, boarding was super quick, but it was so efficient that our luggage couldn't keep up, which meant our valiant efforts to leave on time were thwarted.

My flight to Denver had a stop over in Omaha, Nebraska, but I didn't have to switch planes, which was nice. Still, I was worried about how quick the layover would be, since we were already running a little late. Anyone staying in Omaha was quick to depart, which I appreciated, but Southwest needed to switch the flight crew, so that ended up taking a little over half an hour. With a good tale wind and a determined pilot, we landed in Denver exactly when we were supposed to, and once again I was pleasantly surprised. I went from a 40 minute delay to arriving right on time, way to under promise and over deliver.

Waiting for the my luggage was the most annoying part of the whole trip. I must have stood at the carrousel for almost a half hour, and it had taken me at least 15 minutes to walk through the concourse, catch the train and get over to the baggage claim, so in total it took nearly 45 minutes for the bags to even get there.

Even with the layover, the weather and the minor delays, the trip to Denver went pretty smooth, and I was happy to report only a couple setbacks. The return trip to Chicago went even better. There were long lines at DIA for checking bags, but employees at the kiosks were very helpful and they had made sure to staff enough people to keep the line moving. The boarding process, once again, went very quickly, and this time our bags were pretty much on the same schedule. We only sat at the gate for a few minutes before taxiing out. And while the flight was quick and relaxing, what made it most enjoyable was our flight attendant. Our safety demonstration was more than just a tutorial on buckling our seatbelts, but rather a short comedy routine. It definitely lightened the mood a bit, and showed that some Southwest employees really do enjoy their work.

airlinereporter.com

Upon arrival in Chicago, I once again had to wait an exceptionally long time for my bags. It was irritating, but nothing I hadn't experienced with any other airline.

Overall, I would say my journey with Southwest was pretty good. I would give them an average rating of an A-, mostly because the check-in and boarding process can be a bit confusing and hectic, and the long wait for bags was a bit of an issue. Southwest definitely gets points for having an efficient bag check--and no bag fee is certainly a bonus--as well as giving out free snacks on board, a friendly staff and on-time departures and arrivals.

However, I am not a complete convert just yet. Yes, on this particular trip, Southwest had the best fares, but that is not always the case. I have often found other airlines to be cheaper or have better flight times, so I cannot say for sure that I will pick Southwest over another airline in the future based on their benefits. Pricing is always a big factor in my airline decision process. Whoever has the best bid will win my business.

The Holiday Cold

2011-12-20T16:05:00.000-06:00

It's happened to most of us.

Just as we're closing up shop at the office, packing the last of our essentials in our suitcases, and wrapping those final presents, that dull pain starts creeping into our heads, our thoats feel a little scratchy and our noses just won't stop running. I call it the Holiday Cold. It's what happens when all the stress of the season--final work projects, Christmas shopping, holiday parties--finally sets in just as we are ready to enjoy the holiday.

My flight back home to Denver is tomorrow afternoon, and wouldn't you know it, my head has been pounding all day and my nose is getting more stuffed by the minute. It doesn't help that I will soon be wandering through a crowded airport where I will eventually board a packed plane filled with germy travelers. It's a fact that planes can actually make people sick, so if a cold is lingering before you fly, chances are it will be a full blown illness when you arrive at your destination.

People who travel a lot have higher rates of infection, with one study saying there is an increased risk as high as 20%. There is a common belief that recirculated air is the main cause, but illnesses are more likely to spread when air circulation is shut off. So when people are boarding or exiting the plane is actually when they are most prone to getting sick. Since the air in planes is very dry, it is a prime environment to spread disease, since viruses tend to thrive in low-humidity. High altitude can also make people tired, and fatigue makes them susceptible to colds. With all these factors working against you, it seems inevitable that you will catch some type of cold, whether mild or severe. So how do you avoid the Holiday Cold and actually enjoy your time with the family?

Follow a couple simple precautions, and you should be able to stave off that pesky cough.

credit: health.com

First, hydrate, because drinking water and keeping nasal passages open and moist can help reduce the risk of a cold. Second, keep your hands clean. Keep sanitizer nearby and squeeze a bit on your hands after you come in contact with any surface that could be contaminated with germs--tray tables, seat pockets, etc. Third, open your air vent so that the stream of air passes right in front of your face, this will help direct airborne germs away from you. Fourth, if you end up sitting next to someone who is sick, request to change seats. With this holiday season expected to be super busy, and most planes filled to capacity, this might not be possible, but it's worth a shot for your health's sake. Finally, avoid pillows and blankets, since this is a veritable breeding ground for germs.

For me, I always carry a couple packets of Emergen-C in my bag. I down one with a full glass of water before entering the airport, and then take another while in flight. Some people are skeptical about whether it actually helps you fight a cold, and, trust me, I'm wary of that, too. However, I do believe that it can boost your immune system to help fight off the possibility of a cold. I also take a multivitamin and plenty of zinc before traveling. Water and tea are always my beverages of choice, and I try my best to not get too stressed, since that can lower your defenses even more.

credit: lindtusa.com

The Holiday Cold can be a downer, especially if it hits when you're traveling. Taking the proper steps can keep you healthy and happy this holiday season. And you do happen to catch a little bug, remember that this is the time of year for giving, and your family and friends will certainly come with the rescue with hot chicken soup, warm cocoa and lots of soft blankets. Who wouldn't love that?

Trimming the Tree

2011-12-01T11:45:00.001-06:00

Today is the first day of December, and in celebration of the holiday season, my roommate and I are planning to "deck the halls"--or our apartment--with a bunch of Christmas decorations, including the staple of the season: The Christmas Tree.

Trimming the tree has been a cherished tradition in our culture for hundreds of years, but the history of this act dates back decades before our country even existed. There are numerous accounts of how the Christmas tree tradition came to be, but most historians can agree that it goes back to the early Romans. In the Northern hemisphere, the longest night of the year--also known as the winter solstice--occurs around December 21. Romans celebrated this time with a feast called the Saturnalia, in honor of Saturn, the god of agriculture. Since the solstice meant that farms and orchards would be green again soon, the Romans decorated their homes with evergreen boughs. They would exchange gifts, giving coins for prosperity, pastries for happiness, and lamps to light one's journey through life.

Years later, Germans and Scandinavians put evergreen trees in their homes or just outside their doors to represent their hope for the upcoming spring. This tradition helped us evolve our current practices with trees indoors and wreaths hung in entryways. Germany is largely credited with launching the Christmas tree tradition as we know it. It is widely believed that Martin Luther was the first to actually decorate a tree with lighted candles to recapture the scene he witnessed of stars twinkling through the branches of the evergreens.

In the United States, the tree most likely came from Hessian troops during the American Revolution, or with German immigrants in Pennsylvania. One of the first accounts of a tree in the U.S. was in the 1830s, when settlers in Pennsylvania displayed them in their hopes. However, many Americans saw the trees as pagan symbols and they were not accepted at first. It was only after an image was printed of Queen Victoria and her prince, Albert, standing with their children around a Christmas tree that it suddenly became fashionable.

Christmas ornaments began arriving in America in the 1890s, when tree decorating was growing rapidly in popularity. True to form, Americans took to putting up massive trees that reached from floor to ceiling, while the Europeans continued to use small trees about four feet high. (But we always like things bigger here.) Many people made their own homemade ornaments using wood and cloth, while others used apples, nuts and marzipan cookies. Popcorn came into use after being dyed bright colors and interlaced with berries.

Today, our ornaments and decorations are much more elaborate, which is to be expected. And we have all taken on our own Christmas decorating traditions. And just as every family is different, so is every country. It is interesting to hear about what other cultures do to celebrate Christmas, and how they trim their trees.

Christmas trees around the world. Credit: family-christmas-traditions.com

In the Phillipines, much the population is too poor to afford Christmas trees, so they must rely on their own creativity to make a tree. They will often use bamboo, branches or other materials to build an artistic rendition of the typical evergreen. They will then decorate them with star lanterns and other handmade ornaments. In Liberia, the Christmas tree is an oil palm tree that they decoate with bells. In the northern part of Brazil, where pine trees are rare, most will buy artificial trees in a variety of colors. In the south, where there are millions of trees, people will decorate them with puffs of cotton to imitate snow. The Japanese do not really celebrate Christmas, but those who do decorate their trees with small toys, dolls, paper ornaments, gold fans, lanterns and tiny candles. Since Christmas falls during the summer in South Africa, many do not have trees, but they will decorate their windows with sparkling cotton, wool and tinsel. The same is true in Australia, and many will celebrate on the beach or with a backyard barbecue. Mnay Aussies will decorate Christmas bushes, native plants with red-flowered leaves.

While my family has adopted many Italian traditions, we have yet to embrace the ceppo, a triangular shelf that is set up in the room. On the lower shelf sits the nativity, the upper shelves are decorated with small gifts, fruits, and candies. Candles can be affixed to the sides and a star is placed on top. This is called the "tree of lights." Maybe I can convince my parents to do it this year, though after 25 years of doing the exact same thing, I think we all might be reluctant to introduce something new.

But I am excited to trim my tree tonight, and perhaps start some of my own traditions.

No Vacation Day Left Behind

2011-11-22T06:00:00.000-06:00

In yet another display of our country's admirable--yet incessant--work ethic, a recent survey found that the average American worker leaves 6.2 paid vacation days unused at the end of the year....that's just crazy! You have the time, why not take it?

Another survey showed that 57% of workers do not use all their vacation days each year, with the average number of days left was 11....how can this be? That's a two week vacation right there! You could take a nice long trip abroad in that time, or take a few long weekends for quick trips somewhere close by. The possibilities are endless, and yet people are reluctant to take the time. You work hard, you earn those vacation days, so use them! Most of the time, companies will only let a certain number of days roll over to the next year, and those usually have an expiration date on them.

My company, for example, only rolls over five vacation days at the end of the year, and those need to be used by March, otherwise you lose them. And that's paid, scheduled time off. Our sick days don't roll over at all, so I lose those come December 31, no matter what. I like my job, I work hard, I rarely call in sick or take advantage of our work-from-home policy. But you better believe that I will take every day off that I possibly can, because I'm not one to let things go to waste.

The respondents to the surveys cited the recession and high unemployment as reasons for not taking time off, and I can understand that logic. No one wants to be seen as a slacker or lazy by taking an extra day or two for a vacation, especially when so many people are being laid off and companies are making cuts to budgets. However, businesses give these days to their employees because they are required to do it, and as long as people do not abuse that privilege, there is nothing wrong with taking the time one has allotted.

Vacation days are sacred gifts, especially around the holidays. I plan on spending as much time as I can with my family, and that means taking a couple extra days off around Christmas. But I will not hesitate in requesting that time; it's important to take a break every once and a while for yourself. In my opinion, having a vacation--even if it's just one day or a long weekend--can make you a more efficient and happy employee.

So go ahead, pencil in a vacation day or two, especially if you have a few stacked up. Because that average is way to high for my liking.

Home for the Holidays

2011-11-21T12:00:00.000-06:00

In a little over 48 hours from now, I will be sitting in an airport terminal waiting to board a plane home to Denver. This will be my first Thanksgiving with my family in three years, and, needless to say, I am ecstatic!!

Don't get me wrong, I have enjoyed my last few Thanksgivings here in Chicago, but there is just something about being home for the holidays. It was difficult the first year that I decided not to go back to Denver, but I accepted that I would probably have holidays away from my family in the future, so it was a good way to prepare. I knew I would encounter different traditions, mannerisms, activities and even food, since everyone has their own versions of Thanksgiving dishes. Some of the food I liked more than others (not a fan of the jello molds, but the raisin-filled stuffing and pumpkin pie cheesecake certainly were tasty) and I have never been one to take part in Black Friday shopping until I met my old boyfriend's family. It was all an eye opening experience, but that has come to an end. Now, it is time to venture back, because there really is no place like home. (I know, but Dorothy totally knew what she was talking about.)

I cannot wait to do all the things I love to do with my family on Thanksgiving--bake fresh bread from scratch, watch/play football all day, help prepare all the food (though I usally focus on the cranberries and potatoes), chat for hours at the table after dinner and then sleep off our food comas late into Friday morning (no Black Friday shopping for us). Just the thought of getting to spend this time with my family is making me feel incredibly nostalgic and slightly emotional--though I must keep it together, seeing as I am at work.

This year, I will be changing things up slightly by doing a four-mile Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning with my friends. Though I have never done it before, I believe it will be a good tradition to adopt, since it means I can eat even more at dinner. Another event I am looking forward to is my best friend's 25th birthday, which is Friday. It's also her golden birthday, so we're getting decked out in our finest glittery, gold outfits and hitting the town.

Who knows what the rest of the weekend will hold, but I am sure I'll love every second of it.

I totally enourage people to see the world and experience other cultures, especially their holiday traditions, but there is something about going home. It will be a truly special time for my family, mostly because it will be the first time in three years that we are all together. And that means a lot, particularly for my grandpa, who has been struggling with his health this year. In all honesty, I think I am most excited to see him. Because if this past year has taught me anything, it's that family is the most important thing in your life. They are there for you no matter what, your constant support system. And since I'm so far away from mine, these are the moments I really cherish.

Thanksgiving Fares...Don't Wait to Buy!

2011-11-10T16:37:00.001-06:00

If you're thinking that if you wait until the last minute to get flights home for Thanksgiving, fares will be cheaper, think again.

Industry experts are expecting air travel around the holidays to be much more expensive than last year, with airfare said to be around $375 for Thanksgiving. Not only will prices be higher, but seats will be limited. Airlines have cut capacity 11% this year, which means fewer flights to a certain destination or smaller planes used on routes. So the chances of snagging that preferred aisle seat for a reasonable price are pretty slim this year.

And Christmas isn't looking much better for travelers. Those fares could be anywhere from 6% to 12% higher than last year, so no matter what, you're going to be paying more, even if you buy them now or later. I recommend getting them sooner, because at least that way you will have more seating options to choose from.

I was lucky this year, snagging Thanksgiving flights for around $300 round-trip, and Christmas for about $250 round-trip. But I have a tendency to start looking at flights far in advance of a trip, especially one that will be taking place over a holiday. When I ventured to Boston earlier in the year for Fourth of July, I booked those tickets in February. You better believe I got a much better price than those girls who booked last minute. Then again, many airlines will roll out airfare promotions and limited-time offers, so in those cases, I say don't hesitate and jump on them!

Culinary Excursions

2011-10-27T14:01:00.001-05:00

A large part of travel is, of course, food. And it makes sense, because most of the time, the places we visit have cuisine that is completely different from our home town, especially if you venture to a different country. Personally, I don't feel I have truly experienced a place until I've eaten one of its local specialities. If you can find a trip that not only offers unique delicacies, but also an opportunity to learn about the culinary process of making it, then you've really got something special.

http://www.3tomatoeslv.com/

I have had the privilege of partaking in some of these activities, and I highly recommend them. If you happen to go to Sienna, Italy, I suggest signing up for a personal cooking class. I, along with my family and friends, got the chance to cook with a Tuscan-style chef right in the comfort of her own kitchen. We chopped, sliced, seasoned, sipped and tasted our way through the afternoon, enjoying classic dishes like bruschetta, chickpea soup a four herb pasta. We ate each dish as it was prepared, heading back into the kitchen after each one to dive into the next, all the while drinking glass after glass of Italian wine.

Being from Colorado, I know a number of quality brewery tours that give you a first-hand glance at the beer-makign process...but these can usually be found in any city nowadays, especially with the popularity of craft beers in our culture. However, I recently stumbled upon a new business in Chicago's West Loop neighborhood called Brew & Grow, where home brewers can buy all the supplies they need to make beer on their own. Not only that, but it offers beer making classes, where you can make your own stout or ale, learn about flavors and consistency, as well as what food is best to pair with it. It's a great way to learn about a local activity while experiencing a city that is becoming a big player in the craft brew arena.

I read an article in the Wall Street Journal that covers a couple more food getaways for the upcoming harvest season. One in particular that caught my interest--and this should be no surprise to my readers--was the Grape Education at Blackberry Farm in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. In mid-November, the farm hosts its Wine Geek 101 event, where guests learn all about wine tasting, selection and pairing. You can also partake in cooking demonstrations and tours of the farm. It's relatively pricey ($1,200 per person) but if you have the time and funds, I think it would be a magical trip.

http://www.seriouseats.com/

Of the other suggestions, I think the next one I would pick is the bread making in Bath, England. Not exactly the easiest location to get to, but for fresh Italian and French bread, I think it's worth it. The five day course costs $300 a day, with one- and three-day courses available, too. An award-winning chef leads the class, where you learn how to make a vast array of different breads, and at the end, I'm pretty sure you get to eat some, too.

For the autumn season, when cooking and comfort food reign supreme (how many days until Thanksgiving?), it seems appropriate to indulge in a culinary excursions. The best part about them is that they can usually be squeezed into a quick weekend trip, making it super easy to enjoy another location on short notice.

Chocoholic Adventures

2011-10-14T18:48:00.000-05:00

As I stepped off the train this morning, my nose caught a whiff of that ever familiar scent that drifts through the area of River North around Merchandise Mart: Chocolate. Fresh chocolate. The Blommer Chocolate Company, the largest cocoa bean and chocolate manufacturer in North America, is just a few blocks west of my office, and when they start cooking up their confectionary masterpieces, the whole neighborhood can smell the decadent treats.

It's common knowledge among those who know me that chocolate is a weakness of mine, a vice, if you will. I have cravings--at least three or four a day--for chocolate, and I never get sick of it. I could have chocolate every day for the rest of my life, and I would die happy. You can deem me a true chocoholic.

So, in honor of Blommer's latest batch of goodies, and the fact that this is Chocolate Week (no I didn't make that up) in Europe, I found a list of explorations specifically geared toward travelers who love chocolate. October for Europeans is all about chocolate, but luckily you don't have to go on these trips during this month only, because this sweet should be celebrated all year round.

While a couple of the trips are more about enjoying the spa-benefits of cocoa (the two-hour Symphony in Chocolate in Austria, and the Mayan chocolate massage in Mexico) most of them are all about eating! Which is something I am all for. Of the tasting adventures, participating in the chocolate making process in St. Lucia sounds like the most exciting, simply because it's a hands-on experience that takes you through every step of chocolate making--from picking the beans from the plantation to taking that first satisfactory bite. Another one that caught my eye was the all-you-can-eat chocolate bar in Boston. Not only is it close enough that I could make a quick weekend trip of it, but it's also in one of my favorite cities in the country--plus my best friend lives there! And, let's be honest, how could anyone turn down something that combines chocolate and all-you-can-eat? Probably my third favorite trip is the chocolate and wine pairing at the Hahndorf Hill Winery in Australia, which is known for its pairings. The ChocoVino Experience is my ideal activity, because it brings together chocolate and my other vice, wine. Totally meant for me.

While these three are at the top of my list, all the others sound interesting and delicious. I mean, who wouldn't enjoy a chocolate tour through Bruges, Belgium, one of the most famous places for world-class cocoa. Or what about a cooking class in France to learn how to make your own delectable chocolate dishes? It all sounds so incredible, and perhaps one day I will get to experience each of these chocoholic adventures.

Win a Free Flight to Japan

2011-10-12T16:00:00.000-05:00

Japan's tourism has been struggling the last six months after an earthquake and tsunami struck the country in March, causing millions of dollars in damage and lingering concerns over exposure to nuclear radiation. As a result, many people have opted out of visiting Japan, and the tourism industry is desperate to attract travelers.

So, in an effort to lure more visitors, Japan's board is hoping to get a plan approved to give away up to 10,000 free flights to Japan. It could cost the country over $10 million to do, but the hope is that it will encourage people to plan more vacations there and help boost the economy.

So, what's the catch?

Well, in exchange for free airfare, Japan is asking travelers to share their (positive) experiences via blog posts and social media outlets. It doesn't seem like too much to ask, in my opinion, since I love to write about my travels already. Also, visitors still have to pay for their own lodging, food and other necessities once they get there, but more often than not, airfare tends to be the most expensive part of a trip. It's probably not that difficult to find a decently priced hotel in Japan, and with some savvy budgeting tricks, paying for food and transport should not be that bad.

If the Japanese government approves the plan, the tourism board could start accepting applications as early as April 2012. And if that happens, I fully intend on submitting one.

Who knows, I could end up winning a free flight, giving me the chance to see a countrry I've been dying to see for years.

Pan Am: A Glimpse of Travel History

2011-10-12T13:39:00.001-05:00

Pan Am is a new fall show that premiered on ABC a couple weeks ago and follows the lives of stewardesses and pilots working for the largest international airline during the 1960s. The women live a privileged life, jetting off to exotic locales each week, like London, Paris and Berlin, experiencing some of our country's most significant historical events.

While the storyline is clearly embellished for dramatic effect--and to please viewers--there is some truth in the series. The uniforms, daily attire and plane design are extremely accurate, proving that the shows' producers did their homework. Another aspect of the industry's history that the show touches on is the high standards that stewardesses had to meet, especially when it came to their appearance. They had to be a certain size--and that wasn't because the planes had a weight requirement--and were weighed every week to make sure the numbers on the scale did not inch up. Stewardesses were more than crew members who brought travelers meals and assisted them in boarding, they were objects to be looked at, especially from the successful business men sitting in first class. They had to be classy, sophisticated and always prepared, beacuse at every moment they were in uniform, they were representing Pan Am.

Apart from the period-appropriate outfits, settings and behaviors, the show also gives viewers today a glimpse into a completely different time for our country, when planes were considered a luxurious way to travel rather than just another commute to get through; when the Cold War and Communism were the main terrorist threats to America; when there was no such thing as a cell phone and people still wrote letters and postcards to stay in touch.

Perhaps my infatuation with the show is that each week they get to go somewhere else, somewhere new and exciting. It makes me envious of the stewardess lifestyle, because they get to see all these places I may never visit. Obviously, the life of flight attendants today may not be as glamorous as it was back then, but that's what I love about it, I can escape to another world for an hour each Sunday night, exploring the world with these women as they deal with their own personal dilemmas. I will admit, it has become my new guilty pleasure.

Observations in the Travel World

2011-10-10T16:46:00.000-05:00

I have been chained to my desk as of late and, as a result, travel excursions have been limited. However, the number of travel stories I have read has been quite abundant, and my thoughts have been reeling all day--let's face it, the last few days--about everything that has been going on. So, in an effort to get my thoughts out there--and to finally post something after a long absence--I've decided to discuss some of my observations.

American Airlines

As many of you may or may not know, American Airlines is not doing so hot. In fact, its stock prices fell to their lowest point since 2009 last week, and there have been rumors that it will file for bankruptcy. American is the leader in declines among major airlines, and investors said they think the airline will run out of cash reserves. What's worse? Other airlines saw a drop in their stocks after news of American's poor performance, causing many of them to cut capacity and, possibly, raise fares--two things that are never good for travelers. So what does this mean? Well, it could lead to the downfall of one of the largest airlines in the U.S., a company that felt it was too big to fail back in 2008 when the recession started and was the only big name that did not file for bankruptcy protection at that time. It certainly is not a promising sign for the airline industry, especially since analysts expect air travel demand to slump at the end of this year, even with the busy holiday season ahead. I, personally, have only flown American a couple times in my life, and I've never been all that impressed with it. I usually opt for UnitedContinental or a budget airline like Frontier. In all honesty, this kind of failure may be exactly what American Airlines needs to turn things around. But bankruptcy is, for now, only a rumor, and there is no telling if it will actually happen.

New Planes, New Seating

After a three year delay, Boeing finally delivered its first 787 Dreamliner to All Nippon Airways a couple weeks ago, and UnitedContinental said it will fly the jet in 2012. The new jet uses technology like lightweight composites and advanced propulsion that are said to increase fuel economy and environmental sensitivity. While I may not get the chance to fly on one of these jets in the near future, it is still exciting to see something so innovative come on the scene. I can only imagine the passenger experience these new planes will provide. Since UnitedContinental plans to use them on only two international routes--Houston to Auckland, New Zealand; and Houston to Lagos, Nigeria--I guess I will need to save up as much money and vacation days as possible in order to book a ticket.

In other plane news, Lufthansa reconfigured the seats in its jets, allowing it to add more rows while still providing passengers with plenty of legroom. I know what you're thinking, it doesn't seem to add up. How can you squish seats together, adding at least two to three more rows, and still give people more room? Well, you install thinner seats. The airline replaced thick foam padding with strong mesh and placed the magazine pocket at the top of the seatback to give passengers more room for their knees. I think this is a trend we will be seeing more often, since many airlines are being forced to cut flights due to financial woes and are trying to find more ways to bring in revenue. Adding extra seating will help make up for money lost from other cuts. Plus, the seats still take into account passenger comfort and satisfaction, meaning everyone wins!

The Airbus A380 is a double-decker jet that seats about 500 passengers, but Korean Air has rolled out its own layout with 407 seats. It has three sections: first class, prestige or business class, and economy class. The entire top deck is for prestige class and the first class suites have 24-inch HD screens. Also, it will have a duty-free shop at the back of the plane, as well as three bars: a self-serve bar on each deck and a "Celestial Bar" in the back of the top deck. Um...I think the description says it all.

Cheap Tickets/Giveaways

LAN Airlines, a Chilean carrier, selected a Latin American-themed restaurant in New York City where it gave out free vouchers for round-trip tickets to South America. Yeah, that's right. If you were at Nuela last Thursday night, you were one of the lucky diners who recieved a free flight. It doesn't seem fair that those people should get that kind of prize just for being in the right place at the right time, but it's all part of a larger marketing campaign for the airline. And let's be honest, I wouldn't complain at all if my dinner was interupted by a woman handing me a free flight to a foreign country. In fact, that would make my meal even more enjoyable.

Even though I didn't get a flight for free, I was able to take advantage of a limited-time holiday sale from Southwest Airlines. I had been scouring the travel websites the last couple weeks trying to find a reasonable price for a flight home for Christmas. However, I was not having much luck finding anything for under $300, so I figured I would hold off the search for another week, and lo and behold a deal came along. I was able to snag one-way tickets on Chicago-Denver routes for $99! And over Christmas...a definite steal in my opinion. So now I've booked my holiday trip home and I am so excited that I get to spend the money I saved on more gifts for my family! (Or on a new pair of shoes for myself, but I'm not that selfish.)

In Closing...

Those are the travel stories and experiences that have been on my mind lately. I apologize for not having anything more exciting, but I do hope to follow up with some destinations pieces in the coming days. So feel free to chime in on these topics and leave comments and opinions. I love reading them!

The Perfect Birthday Gift

2011-09-28T17:02:00.000-05:00

Yes, it is that magical time of year, when everyone celebrates me! A time when everyone takes time out of their busy day to wish me well, ask me what my plans are, inquire about any gifts I've received, and ask the inevitable question, "so, how old are you?" (None of your business, by the way.) Mostly, it's the day that I get to soak up all the attention, get showed with gifts and compliments and indulge in all the goodies I want.(Modesty is usually my strong suit, but this is my special day, so deal with it.)

But even with all the love and attention I get on my birthday, I still struggle when it comes to telling people what I want. By now I've gotten past the age of birthday parties and wrapping presents and moved into the stage when a friend buying you a drink or lunch is a perfectly acceptable gift. So when my dad asked me what I wanted, I could not give him a straight answer--in all honesty, I had spent so much time planning my birthday party, I had not even though about what I actually wanted. I usually end up saying a gift card or money, but those don't really have much significance. (Though I am more than happy to accept them.) So I certainly appreciated my dad giving me a beautiful sapphire necklace and matching earrings...very thoughtful and something I would never buy for myself.

Yet as my magical day continues to tick by, I keep wondering what my perfect birthday gift would be. And then it hit me as I was collecting travel news for work...

A trip!

My perfect birthday gift would be a vacation...and not a vacation to just anywhere....to ITALY!

I want to spend my birthday in Tuscany, on a vineyard, surrounded by bottles of wine and plates of delicious food. I want to spend the day walking through the cobbled streets of the various Italian cities, window shopping at all the boutique and designer stores I cannot afford. I want to enjoy a loaded cone of Straciatella gelato, topped with another scoop of baccio--yum. I want to wander through fields of sunflowers, maybe grab a few to make my own personal birthday bouquet. I want to pick fresh grapes from the vine, and then learn how to crush them to make sweet wine. I want to sit around a festive table full of friends and family, all enjoying a fresh, home-cooked meal.

Obviously, I would not be able to jet over to Italy for one day only, it would require a much longer vacation, but you all get the idea. I couldn't do it this year, but maybe for my 30th--that's another big birthday that deserves a special celebration.

So for now, if you really want to get me a gift, a bottle of Italian wine or dinner or chocolate. Or perhaps giving me some miles so I can start saving them up for my perfect birthday in Italy!

The Fall Foliage in Maine

2011-09-27T15:38:00.000-05:00

The East Coast, especially the New England states, provide some of the best places to see the colors change, and Maine is no exception. Leisure travel to this far north state increases significantly after Labor Day, and it's easy to see why. The lush environment is ideal to see the fall foliage and the coastal regions boast some of the most picturesque scenery in the country. Maine also has a number of fall activities to complete any trip.

Before you go, check the fall foliage website, the official tracker of conditions in Maine and where the colors are really starting to show. As of right now, most of Maine is still pretty green, but it's only a matter of time before the index ticks up and it will be in peak foliage season.

Acadia National Park. Credit: Acadiamagic.com

Once you decide when you want to go, the next step is figuring out what to do. As I said before, there is no end to the possibilities in Maine. Obviously, seeing the leaves change will be at the top of your list--at least it should be--but, in all honesty, how can you miss it. Maine has over 17 million acres of forest, so catching the reds, golds and oranges will be no trouble at all. Whether you want to see a lot or a little is up to you. If you are eager to take in as much of the fall season as possible, I suggest taking a hike, bike ride or drive through the numerous trails that wind through the state. Acadia National Park has 57 miles of paved and less-traveled trails where bikers can travel along the coastline or venture on an old logging trail.

There are dozens of festivals in Maine during the months of September and October, including pumpkin carving events, haunted tours and craft shows, and there is no end to the wide array of foods one will taste while attending the festivities. Here is just a quick list of events you could hit throughout the state:

Harvest Fest & Chowder Cook-off in Bethel
ChiliFest in Wells
Salmon Festival in Eastport
Country Roads Artists & Artisans Tour
WoodenBoat Sail-In in Brooklin
Ogunquit's Antique Show & Sale
Cumberland Fair
Common Ground Country Fair in Unity
Apple Festival in Rangeley Lakes
Acadia's Oktoberfest on Mount Desert Island
Caribou Fall Arts & Crafts Festival
North American Wife Carrying Championship at Sunday River
Candlelight Ghost Tour in Bangor
Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest in Hiram

Obviously, that's a lot to choose from, but at least you know you have options.

As far as food, well, you certainly will not go hungry in Maine. The state is known for its seafood, especially its lobster, and visitors will devour its fresh, farm raised clams, oysters, mussels, scallops, salmon and trout, too. There are many great places to enjoy a traditional lobster "shore dinner," so check out this list to find one you like. Maine is also credited with having some of the best artisanal cheeses in the country from popular cheesemakers like Hahn's End, Appleton Creamery, Liberty Fields Farms and Oak Leaf Creamery, among others.

Portland Head Maine. Credit:Imagemania.net

Another symbol of Maine is the lighthouse. In our age of digital technology, satellites and GPS, lighthouses no longer serve the same important purpose of guiding boats home that they once did, but they are still very distinctive features of Maine's coast, where more than 60 lighthouses can be found. So no matter what coastal city you choose to visit, chances are there will be a lighthouse somewhere along the beach.

If the outdoors are not your thing, Maine provides plenty of indoor attractions and activities, including world-renowned museums and art galleries, critically acclaimed theaters and performing arts centers, traditional antique and craft shops, and relaxing spa and salon getaways. Trust me, you can still enjoy those fall colors from the comfort of a lodge, boutique shop or museum gallery.

So why not schedule a trip to see the seasons change in one of the most magical places in the United States?

10 Years After September 11

2011-09-11T17:02:00.001-05:00

If you are old enough, you may remember a time when checking bags on a flight was free, when security lines were a breeze to get through--just toss your bag on the conveyor belt and walk through the scanner--when you could greet your friends and family at the gate rather than a designated welcome area with hundreds of other people. Yep, those were the days, the days before all the increased security, before the hike in various airline fees, the days before September 11, 2001, when two planes were hijacked by terrorists and deliberately flown into the twin towers in New York City, forever changing American's lives forever.

Not since the day that John F. Kennedy was shot has there been an event with so much significance that everyone can remember exactly what they were doing and where they were when they heard about it. Now, 10 years later, the effects of that day still ripple through our daily routines. Terror levels are broadcast on all news channels, politicians still reference the events in their speeches, American troops are being sent to fight a war brought on by what happened on that fateful Tuesday. It penetrates everything, from the state of our economy to how we get around the world. In fact, it's impact on the travel industry has probably been the most significant.

Right after 9/11, people were terrified to get back in the air. Airlines suffered huge losses as more people stopped flying and opted for ground transportation instead. Recovery was slow, as more and more people trickled back into airports, but the experience of air travel would never be the same. Suddenly, everyone required a boarding pass in order to get past security and into the terminal. No more goodbye hugs at the gate or welcome home kisses the minute you walk off the plane, those are long gone. And speaking of security, we all know how much that has changed in the last 10 years. Prior to the attacks, security was pretty basic. Now, there are more rules and regulations that passengers have to follow, it can be difficult to remember them all. (I cannot tell you how many times I have forgotten to take off a belt, or remove my sandals, or take my bag of toiletries out of my purse.)

Passenger going through security.
Credit: WSJ/Lucas Jackson

As various events occurred, security added more and more layers to the process. When a man tried to explode a bomb hidden in his shoe in 2001, TSA made all passengers remove shoes for X-ray screening; when a 2006 plot to use explosives in liquids, we were all limited to the quantity of liquids in our carry ons. And now with the new body scanners and intrusive patdowns, passengers have even more to deal with as angry TSA workers eye them with suspicion--or oggle them, which can be just as bad, trust me.

And then there are the smaller things that people might not notice, like the Septemeber 11 security fee that passengers are charged on every ticket they purchase, $2.50 on every flight, up to $10 per round trip. Just last year, we paid $2.1 billion from that fee alone. If you really want to hear a scary number, the International Air Transport Association estimates that airlines spent $7.4 billion on security in 2010. To compare, in 2000, airlines spent $448 million on security. It's a significant difference. No wonder airlines are hemorrhaging money and desperately trying to bring in more revenue by hiking ticket prices, charging extra fees for checking bags and taking away free snacks--I'm still mad about the pretzels, Continental.

Security lines in BC, Canada. Credit: Guardian

But the effects are not only felt here in the U.S., they have hit millions of people around the world in ways we could never imagine. Obviously, security measures were upped at international airports, too, and foreign carriers changed their policies and procedures to adapt to the lower demand for air travel. But the heightened security adopted after 9/11 has discouraged many tourists from coming to America, hurting job growth in the hospitality industry. The government has created unweildy entry procedures for visitors, like lengthened wait times for visas to enter the country. Our country is in desperate need of more foreign visitors to help stimulate spending and feed money into our economy, but the backlog of visa applications has deterred a lot of travelers. In Brazil, for example, waiting periods can exceed four months. That kind of delay could cost our country hundreds of thousands of potential visitors who will choose to spend their money in other countries that do not force them to go through such a difficult and expensive process.

I realize that most of the changes have been made to keep us and our country safe, and overall, I feel we are relatively safe. But I admit that I still get irritated by the flying experience sometimes, as I'm sure we all do. I hate paying extra fees for bags, and then worrying about getting overhead space if I choose not to check. I hate when the security lines are so long that even though you give yourself enough time to make your flight, you still might cut it close.

Remembering 9/11 Credit: MSN.com

What I truly hate the most is the uneasiness that can still come when getting on a plane, the fear of not knowing whether or not you are truly safe. The acts of September 11 left an impression on all Americans, whether we had a direct connection or not. While watching the special coverage at the memorial site in New York, NBC showed a montage of video clips and images from the attacks, and I couldn't help but cry. There remains an overwhelming sadness associated with that day, because it showed how vulnerable our country can be and how far we still have to go. Our country will never get over what happened, never forget the innocent people who lost their lives, and will continue to fight for our freedom and safety, no matter what kind of small inconveniences that might bring about. It's all worth it in the end.

Welcoming Fall, Going Home

2011-09-02T12:56:00.000-05:00

It doesn't quite feel like fall outside--ok, let's be honest, it feels like mid-July with the 90-degree temperatures and high levels of humidity--but that wonderful season is just around the corner. Labor Day weekend marks the end of summer, and I am saying farewell with a much-needed trip back to Denver, back home to the wonderful state of Colorado.

I know I sound like a broken record sometimes, but I just love Denver. I love going back to the rising peaks of the Rocky Mountains, their natural beauty leaving me breathless everytime. It doesn't matter that I grew up there, spent the first 18 years of my life in the mile-high city, it still surprises me, still excites me with everything is has to offer. I'm sure everyone feels that way about their home town, at least at one point or another. That's what is so great about going back, it's still the same, comfortable enviornment you remember, but there is always something new and different to experience. I can't wait to walk around the neighborhoods I used to frequent and see what new shops have popped up, new restaurants. It's like rediscovering a place all over again. Of course, I would be sad if some of my favorite places were no longer around, which tends to happen now and again, but it just opens the door for a change, and that's always a positive thing.

And while I am bummed that summer is coming to a close and the warm weather will be leaving us soon--though today, I would love some relief from the heat--I am thrilled to welcome fall. It is, afterall, my favorite season. It might be the slightly cooler weather that allows me to wear my cute sweaters and boots, or it might be the changing colors of the leaves, or the smell of apple cider and pumkin pie. Whatever the reason, fall is a fantastic time of year, and I am happy to be saying hello from the comfort of home.

Quicker on the Return

2011-08-31T16:32:00.001-05:00

It is common knowledge among most travelers that the return leg of a trip always seems shorter than the initial portion. But while we all accept this phenomena, it's not clear exaclty why it happens. In my personal opinion, getting to a place takes longer because of the anticipation. You are eager to get to your destination, excited to get the trip underway, at least that's how I always feel before a trip. In fact, the feeling is not restricted to the actual commute, but rather the entire week--or month, depending--leading up to the vacation. For example, this whole week has just been dragging along, one minute feeling like five. The reason? Because I have a flight home to Denver Friday afternoon, and I cannot wait. As a result, the days seem to be at a standstill. It's that damn anticipation, the desire to get away that forces every moment to feel like an eternity. That is, until you actually get there, and then time can not speed by faster. And then you are back on a plane--or a car or train--making your way to your place of origin, welcoming reality again.

What is truly unfortunate is that the initial trip and the return are exactly the same amount of time, but our minds tell us differently. It's all in our heads. Trust me, there is scientific proof. According to an article in USA Today, researchers found that the phenomena made trips home seem 17% to 22% shorter than the initial one. The scientists interviewed people about trips they took, and each time, even though the trips were exactly the same length, most people felt the return trip took less time. Students riding bikes said the initial trip took an average of 44 minutes, but the return took 37, when in reality, both legs took 35. Yeah, they actually have numbers, data to back this up. As far as explanations, well, they claim that the effect, which they dub "the return trip effect," was caused because people expected the initial trip to be faster than it was. It's that optimism that messes with our heads, it skews our sense of what's coming.

So can this phenomena effect other aspects of our lives? Can it really be limited to travel? I'm not really sure, because there are not a lot of incidences where we take one route to get anywhere and choose that same route to get back. Because in life, we're always moving forward, in some respect. People could argue that it seems to take a long time to get anywhere in life, but a second to lose it all. While that is certainly true, you are not then moving back down that path you came down to get back to a certain point. Nope, once you lose it, you are still stuck in that current place, just without what you had before. So while we would all love to have the return trip effect kick in when we need to get somewhere faster--or at least feel like we're getting their quicker--the best we can do is trust that we will get there when we get there, and our minds will help us along the way.

Hurricane Strands Passengers, Brings Unexpected Guests

2011-08-29T16:38:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, Hurricane Irene slammed into the East Coast, leaving billions of dollars in damage, millions of people without power and thousands more stranded in airports. And while the impact was not as bad as many had anticipated, it still severerly hurt travel in one of the most frequented air spaces in the country.

Passengers wait in line. Credit: CNN

Airlines canceled over 11,000 flights over the weekend, including nearly 1,000 today. Not sure how many of those trips were fully booked, but no matter what, that meant for a whole lot of people hanging around airports across the nation waiting to get another flight or figure out alternate plans. Some made the best of it--like the guy who ended up at my rooftop party after his flight to New York was canceled on Saturday night--while others stressed and complained for hours until finally making it to their destinations.

Many travelers received refunds or rebookings without any penalties, but there were still hours of frustration for most. Customer service lines were jammed with calls, with people waiting up to an hour and a half before speaking with anyone. Obviously, this is not the first weather-related disruption for travelers, just think about everything we've gone through this year alone--blizzards, tornadoes, earthquakes. The best anyone can do is play the hand they are dealt.

For example, the guy I mentioned earlier, Chris, was making his way back to New York after visiting friends on the West Coast. He landed in Chicago, not sure if his flight would be canceled, hoping it would just be delayed. Despite the storm not being as extreme as expected in New York, he still ended up stranded in O'Hare. Luckily for him, United gave him a free hotel room for the night. But for Chris, a night in a hotel near the airport was no way to spend the night. He called his friend Josh, who just happened to be at my apartment for an end-of-summer soiree on our roof. Voila! Instant night out in Chicago. An unfortunate string of events that led to a fun evening meeting some new people.

I am aware that not everyone can get this lucky. Many people did not have friends in the cities where they were stranded. But the story does make a point that there is a way to make light of every situation. So no matter what kind of misfortune comes your way while traveling, there is always a way to make it better, more enjoyable.

This may seem a little too upbeat and optimistic for all those who faced horrific travel issues this weekend, and for those people, I truly am sorry. I am no stranger to those events. The best you can do is grin and bear it, and hope you get a damn good refund from your airline. If not, a good stiff drink should do the trick.

You’re Staying Where?

2011-08-26T16:42:00.000-05:00

I love hotels! It may sound weird, but I really do. I like walking into a new place I’ve never been before, nicely cleaned and set up, just waiting for my arrival. I like seeing what each new room has to offer, from their toiletries, decorations and random other amenities. It’s exciting to be in a different place that isn’t your apartment, even if it’s just for a couple days. While every kind of hotel is thrilling, and I would more than happy to stay at a random Holiday Inn somewhere, in all honesty, it’s the luxury or boutique styles that are the most appealing to me. I mean, they are just so different than your typical chain hotels—which, unfortunately make up the majority of locations in the country. The real tragedy is not just that there are fewer unique hotels, but they are also much more expensive. But to experience something truly out there…I think it would be worth the money.

Sala Silvergruva. Credit: WSJ

So, you can just imagine how excited I got when I read about Sweden’s Sala Silvergruva, a hotel that is so far from ordinary, it borders on creepy. It’s located in a 600-year-old silver mine dug in solid marble. The high-style rooms are situated over 50 stories below ground, and it takes guests a full four minutes in an elevator to get to the outside world. The rooms have silver leather chairs and candelabras all over. And since you are sleeping underground, the hotel uses a partition and electric heaters to bring the temperature up from its usual 36 degrees to a more reasonable 64 degrees—down covers and extra blankets are provided. Talk about stepping out of your comfort zone.

If guests don’t want to sleep in a cave, they can opt for a wooden dormitory, originally built for miners. While it may not be as nice as the mine suite, it is much cheaper and you still get a similar experience. The suite costs around $600 per couple, with a dinner and subterranean tour included in the price. The dormitory costs $60 per person.

A cave is certainly intriguing to me, but I think sleeping in a refurbished plane would be more my style. At Stockholm’s Arlanda Airport, a Boeing 747 that used to fly for Pan Am was gutted and transformed into hotel accommodations. It has 27 rooms equipped with bunk beds and cabinets made from luggage bins. Guests share the bathrooms, but they have been revamped to include shows and porcelain toilets. If you have the money, you can get a suite in the nose and tail of the plane that have double beds and their own bathrooms. Bunk-bed rooms cost $60, while the suites cost around $500.

In the Netherlands, an old harbor crane was made into a one-room inn. The cab sits atop four legs at 56 feet high and features a double bed and bathroom with a toilet and showers. It has large windows that offer panoramic views, but the cab is still designed to rotate, so guests can change their view with the push of a joystick. Day rates range from $570 to $857.

While some of these sound really interesting, and I would like to try them out at least once, there is one concept I think I would gladly skip: A prison. That’s right, you heard me correctly. Some hoteliers have taken to turning closed down prisons into boutique hotels. I cannot imagine two things more opposite. The Malmaison Oxford Hotel was converted from a prison in 2005. Part of the old complex dates back to 1071—which I guess is pretty cool. But I don’t know if I could sleep in an old cell that once housed killers, rapists and thieves. Stockholm’s Långholmen Hotel was also once a prison. It was where Sweden’s last execution was held in 1910 and closed in 1975. Decorations include mirrors that mimic guillotines and gray sheets striped like prison uniforms. Rooms are very small and have bunk beds.

So, there are more than a few quirky places out there for me to explore, and hopefully one day I'll get to see these hotels and experience everything they have to offer. Because, let's face it, it's not everyday you can sleep in a silver mine or an oil-rig escape pod, so why not step out of the ordinary, just once.

Montana's Big Sky: A Trip Down Memory Lane

2011-08-21T13:11:00.000-05:00

Montana is called “Big Sky Country,” a nickname not understood by many until they witness the unobstructed beauty of its sprawling landscapes, rugged mountain ranges and wide open grassland.

I'm writing a short article about sports in Montana for my freelance job, and reading up on the various cities and places in the state reminded me of my road trip through the area the summer after my freshman year of college. I, along with my two best friends from high school, planned a trip up to Calgary, Canada, and decided the best way to get there would be to drive. The journey became part of the vacation, with Billings as our overnight stop on both legs--since Sari had a friend there who could provide us with a free place to stay.

On the way up to Canada, after our night in Billings, we decided to take I-90 West through the state and drive up to Glacier National Park. It was a long drive that took us pretty much all day. But it was totally worth it. Not only did we get a glimpse of how wide open and scenic Montana is, we also got an amazing treat once we hit the Butte area and saw the rising peaks of the mountain ranges--just breathtaking. Our route took us around a lake that seemed to go on forever. (Since I don't remember exactly where we were, I had to look at a map, and I think this lake is called Flathead Lake.) As we drove along the water, we kept seeing signs for cherry farms. At the time, I had no idea that cherries grew in Montana, let alone there was such a booming business for harvesting the tasty fruits. Intrigued, we decided to pull over and buy some. We watched as the women took the freshly picked cherries from a bin and pour them into a bag for us. I think we got at least two pounds of cherries, and it didn't cost much.

And while the lake and the cherries were certainly memorable, nothing can compare to when we first entered Glacier. It didn't look real. It looked like a painting, a photograph that had been digitally displayed for all to see. But it was real, pristine water perfectly framed by walls of glacially formed rock and dirt all topped by a bright blue sky. It became even less of a dream when we removed our sandals and dipped our toes in the lake. We cooled off briefly and then got back in the car to continue our drive through the park--since we still had to reach Calgary by that night. We weaved up the sides of the peaks, stopping every few moments to snap a picture of another magnificent scene, because there were just so many we wanted to capture. Reluctantly, we heading down the other side and headed for the exit, knowing we had a long way left to go before we could rest our heads.

While my time in Montana was brief, it is clearly a place that has made an impression on me. I have some fond memories from that trip, and many of them happened on that drive through Big Sky Country. I can honestly say that I understand how special it is and why it is admired for its beauty. So while Montana may not seem like an exciting place, I encourage you all to give it a chance. I can guarantee you will be pleasantly surprised.

Where to Spend Labor Day Weekend

2011-08-18T16:13:00.001-05:00

It's the last long weekend of the summer, the final hoorah before the cool breath of fall sets in and backyard barbecues and outdoor patios will become a thing of the past--at least until next summer. To celebrate the end of warmth, (and welcome the gorgeous changing leaves and scrumptious pumpkin smells) you need to pick a great place to go. Luckily, our country is full of fantastic long-weekend spots to get away to, the problem is picking one.

Orbitz released its Insider Index with a special section dedicated to the top places to travel for Labor Day weekend. Now, I'm not saying you have to pick one of these destinations, but it may give you a good starting off point. The Index tracked the most popular places people visit for Labor Day, as well as pricing for flights and hotels.

The top ten list includes:

New York
Las Vegas
Chicago
Denver
Seattle
San Francisco
Orlando
Boston
Los Angeles
Atlanta

Lucky for me, I live in one of the top destinations, and I'm actually going to one of the other ones for Labor Day--home to Denver! For those of you looking to plan a vacation, check any of these out. Orbitz said the best hotel rates are in Denver, Atlanta and Orlando. The best round-trip airfare is on flights to Atlanta, Orlando and Boston.

If none of these sound appealing (or they are out of your price range or you've been to all of them before) there are plenty of other places to go. Why not try a nice camping trip in the mountains? Any mountain range will work, but I think the Rocky Mountains are the best, though I'm slightly biased. Or what about a family vacation to the water park capital of the world, Wisconsin Dells? There are dozens of reasonably priced hotels, great activities for kids, and some pleasant amenities for parents. National parks are a big seller for long weekends. Grand Canyon, Glacier, Yellowstone--all of them are great picks. Labor Day is also a great time to shop and take advantage of amazing deals and discounts. Clearly, New York, Chicago and LA are popular shopping destinations, but since those are all on the list, why not try Miami? You get the beach and a wide array of shops to enjoy. If you are a foodie, as so many travelers are, I think a great place to visit is New Orleans for some authentic cajun-style dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate.

So, I've thrown a lot out there for you, and obviously there are a lot of places I didn't mention, but this should give you some nice options to consider.

And even if you decide to stay put for the holiday weekend--because, let's face it, we could all stand to save a little money right now--then make sure to celebrate Labor Day right. Gather your friends and family, fire up the grill, grab some traditional American grub and sit back with a nice beer (or glass of wine!) That's a great way to spend your final weekend of summer!

On Planes, Passengers Indulge

2011-08-16T15:17:00.001-05:00

I've written a few posts about trying to stay active and eat healthy while traveling, since it is often difficult to maintain that lifestyle while on the road. Many people constantly ask how they can keep up with their diets or avoid packing on pounds while on vacation, so it seems oddly counterproductive to find out that most passengers will still choose the high-fat and calorie-laden items on airplane menus. What is going on here?

I read an article in the Wall Street Journal that critiques airplane food and discusses what people are choosing to eat onboard. While many carriers have tried to introduce healthy items like fresh salads, hummus plates, fruit and nut mixes, and greek yogurt, passengers seem to pass those over for something a bit more indulgent. For example, Alaska Airlines offers vegan and gluten-free items, and chicken and vegetable dishes. Yet, it's most popular item is the quarter-pound cheeseburger. United Airlines briefly had "active" and "organic" snack boxes, but ended up donating most of the food. In the end, it had to eliminate the items from the menu because they just were not selling. According to the airline, the most popular option is the "tapas" snack box, which has nine different items, like crackers, hummus, olives, cheese, almonds and candy, and weighs in at 553 calories. If experiments with healthy options seem to be failing as passengers decide to reach for salty, carb-ridden foods, what's the point of having them anyway?

Because there will always be at least one person on the plane that will choose the better product. But in all honesty, most airlines still fill menus with food that is not particularly good for you, even though they are making some moves in the right direction. Airlines like Delta still sell items like toffee-caramel popcorn or cans of Pringles sour cream-and-onion chips, which adds up to 375 calories. United's "Classic Snack Box" features both goldfish and pretzels, why do you need both?

Food experts say that many of these snack boxes contain between 600 and 700 calories, mostly because they are stuffed with a variety of different items that most people probably do not need. A turkey sandwich comes in at a reasonable 400 calories, but throw in potato chips, cookies, almonds and dried fruit, and you just bumped it up by another 300 calories or so. And since airlines do not print up the calorie counts for people, travelers believe they are consuming healthy options, when they really aren't. Since carriers cannot seem to sell beneficial food items, they are forced to either riddle them with more salty, high-calorie foods or remove them from menus all together.

For those who don't think twice about what they eat on planes, these options will suffice. But for those who are concerned about what they eat or are trying to maintain a diet or watch their waists, I suggest surpassing the food that airlines provide. The best thing you can do is pack your own food. It's easy to make a small sandwich and bring it on board, or pack small snacks like fruit, cheese and nuts. It's a safer bet calorie-wise, and it also saves you about $10.

InSite Newsletter

2011-08-12T13:56:00.000-05:00

This is going to be a super quick post, but I just wanted to direct everyone to my article about Edmonton in the "InSite on Leisure Group Travel" newsletter. It's not the full feature I will be writing about my Fam tour there--that's set to be published in the February edition of their print magazine--this one is just a quick piece about boat tours down the North Saskatchewan River. Check out the article by clicking on the link below!

Edmonton from the Water

Enjoy!!

Rationing: Turning One Meal into Four

2011-08-11T15:46:00.001-05:00

It does not seem completely plausible to purchase one sandwich and get four meals out of it. But trust me, it's definitely doable, especially when you are a strapped-for-cash traveler with limited space for anything in your backpack. Trekking across various regions of the globe leaves very few options for packing--and eating--extravagantly, so making the most out of something little is imperative.

I know from personal experience that you can jam a whole lot into one backpack, even if you think it is not big enough to carry it all. On my seven-week trip through Europe, I managed to fit two pairs of jeans, four pairs of shorts, 10 tank tops, three cute tops, a dress, 20 pairs of underwear (you can never have enough), eight pairs of socks, five bras, a pair of tennis shoes, flip-flops, a sweatshirt and a rain jacket all into my one bag. And there was still enough room to hold my toiletries, camera, camera charger, outlet converters and all my money, credit cards and passport. So where does the sandwich come into play?

Well, just as I had to take advantage of what little room I had in my backpack, I had to stretch every meal to the limit. That bag of chips we bought on our last day in Nice had to make it through a five hour train ride to Switzerland, a late night check in at the hostel that left little room to eat, and a whole day of sightseeing through the town of Interlaken. A small jar of peanut butter and bag of pretzels was my go-to snack option for a week, not to mention a full meal or two. And that sandwich, well, let's just say one single panini bought in Italy had to survive at least two days, meaning it was my lunch, dinner, breakfast and lunch again. So how do you effectively transform what is considered to be one full meal into four small ones?

Rationing--and one heaping dose of will power. Right from the minute that sandwich lands in your hands, resist the urge to dive right in--as difficult as it may be. Lay it out on a table, grab a knife and cut it into four equal portions. Take one of the pieces to eat right away, and wrap the rest to store for later. Voila! A five dollar sandwich just turned into four meals, meaning you can save $15 for something else. I know what some of you are thinking, "how the hell can one quarter of a sandwich sustain me for a whole afternoon?" It's a fair question. That's where small snacks come in. I found granola bars, pretzels, and trail mix were sufficient foods to nibble on between larger meals. But remember, those need to be rationed, too, because it is not cheap to buy those items in Europe or anywhere else for that matter, so you want to make sure you savor what you have. Also, the more you do this, the easier it will become, your body will adapt to smaller portions, and you will learn to live off mini meals.

For those of you going on extreme travel expeditions with lots of hiking, biking, walking, etc., I recommend not heeding this advice. You need way more food to sustain that level of activity, but there are ways to keep the food spending down even when you have to eat a lot. If you are traveling with friends, split as much as you can, and get larger portions, so you can always store some away for later. If you are staying in hostels with a kitchen, buy items at grocery stores and make your own sandwiches or cook up a big pot of pasta. Trust me, buying a $3 loaf of bread, a pound of sliced meat and some cheese will go alot further than spending $6 on one sandwich.

Of course, I will be the first to admit that there are certain things I refuse to skimp on. And when you travel, you have the right to indulge every once and a while, it is a vacation after all. For me, it was the chocolate filled crepes in Paris--of course, those are tough to save for later anyway, because, well, you can't really store them efficiently. And in Italy, there was no way I could have just one piece of pizza. So I recommend choosing a couple spots where there is a meal you just have to be able to sit down to and enjoy completely. Because what is travel without a little reward?

The art of rationing is definitely helpful while traveling. It helps save money and lightens your load--in more ways than one. And while I would not recommend doing it at any other time--though I just pulled it off this week--it is a good skill to keep on hand for a variety of other circumstances.

Your Outfit Could Get You an Upgrade

2011-08-10T12:49:00.000-05:00

When most people fly, they probably put as little thought as possible into what they are wearing. Obviously, there are those business travelers who always dress like they are about to go to a board meeting, because they probably are heading to one straight from the airport. For the rest of us, our travel outfits are usually pretty basic and tend to be as comfortable as possible. I usually go with jeans and a casual top, or shorts if I'm going somewhere warm. Rarely do I wear a dress or skirt, because they are not the ideal apparel for a plane. However, a recent article on USA Today has seriously made me reconsider my attire of choice when I travel.

The piece talked about how nicer dressed people usually get a bit of star treatment when they travel, and many airlines will upgrade them to business or first class, even if they are not a frequent flier or the flight is not oversold. I'm not saying it happens every time a man wears a suit on a plane or a woman opts for the nice dress, but it can occur every once and a while.

I will admit, I have never been upgraded before--at least, not when I was traveling on my own--and I would feel so privileged if it happened to me. Perhaps I should rethink the jeans route in favor of nice dress pants or a skirt and a button down shirt. A dress could work, but it would have to have the perfect balance of professionalism and sex appeal, because lets face it, that upgrade will depend a lot on whether or not the gate agent is a man or a woman and if they really approve of the outfit.

When searching online for travel outfits, I came across some interesting fashion websites that laid out various clothing items that could be combined to create a nice travel outfit. Many took cues from celebrities, who always have to maintain a level of style, even if it is on a plane. One website, everydayminimalist.com, offered some nice ideas for different categories of travel, like "Domestic Business Travel," and "Domestic Weekend Trip." I could certainly pull some inspiration from these sites.

My next trip is not until Labor Day weekend, so I have some time to prepare the perfect ensemble. Unfortunately, I'm flying an airline that does not have business class, but maybe I can be moved up to the economy plus rows where I can get a little extra leg room and a free snack. Yeah, that's the life.

Move, Learn, Eat: The Digital Equivalent of Eat, Pray, Love

2011-08-08T14:37:00.001-05:00

Rather than read over 300 pages of a book or watch a two-hour movie to reach spiritual and emotional understanding, you can simply log on to YouTube and watch three, one-minute clips that are just as inspiring, if not more. (Just as a note, I would definitely recommend reading Eat, Pray, Love, because it is an incredible book. The movie, you can forgo.)

Recently, independent filmmaker Rick Mereki went on a round-the-world trip to 11 countries accompanied by two of his friends. His mission: To document all their experiences and pare them down into three short clips relating to the words Move, Learn and Eat. The following movies are perfectly edited, set to inspirational music and feature images that will make anyone smile--I caught myself smiling the whole time I was watching them, and even laughed out loud a couple times, which drew more than a couple looks from coworkers.

I really enjoyed these short films, and I think any travel enthusiast will, too. So, check them out.

LEARN from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

EAT from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

Common Decency on Planes

2011-08-05T14:24:00.000-05:00

A couple weeks ago, I was out to dinner with a few girlfriends and the subject of airplane travel came up. We were discussing how frustrating it can be dealing with demanding passengers, limited space in the overhead bins, minimal leg room, etc. Basically, all the small things that irk everyone when it comes to traveling. But what we all agreed was the most annoying were the people who made the experience even worse. You know the ones I'm talking about. The passenger who leans his or her seat all the way back in an already cramped coach area; the person who takes up both armrests, invading your space just enough to make the whole flight uncomfortable; and the people who do not heed the carry on baggage rules and shove oversized bags in the bins, leaving no space for anyone else's stuff. These are the people who lack common courtesy when it comes to flying, and they come in many forms, ranging from the naive leisure travelers who do not fly enough to know the rules or what to do in certain circumstances, to the business passengers who have so much experience that they feel entitled.

Then I came across this article on USA Today talking about the same subject, and it mentioned a few other annoying tendencies that passengers have. Some of these disrespectful habits include talking too loudly on cellphones, bringing food on board that smells bad, or disregarding the flight attendants request that all electronic devices be shut off.

What it comes down to is that passengers are self-centered, thinking everything is about them. But they have to remember that they are not the only ones on a plane, and there is limited space that has to be shared. I'm not sure when everyone forgot that famous childhood rule of sharing, but it seems to have completely disappeared. Perhaps people need to be re-educated on the ins and outs of proper plane etiquette.

Enter Lonely Planet. The travel website conducted a survey about the kinds of thinfs that make flying miserable for passengers. Based on what it learned, Lonely Planet created a practical "Passengers' Airline Behavior Bill of Rights." The overarching complaint: Other people messing with their seat and personal space. The "rights" of travelers said that passengers can recline, except during meals and when prohibited by the flight crew. And giving fair warning when one is about to recline is advised. Other problems like annoying children were common annoyances, and it is stated that if a child is kicking your seat, you have every right to ask the parent to stop it.

One of my favorite "rights" is Article V: Freedom of no speech. It states:

There shall be no requirement for other passengers to listen to you drone on about your child, cat or other subject not directly germane to an immediate inflight emergency situation. The right of other passengers to give you the ‘book-off’ shall not be infringed, nor shall you assist with the answer to 14-across if unprompted.

I cannot tell you how many times I have settled into my seat, pulled out a book or my iPod, fully prepared to float off into my own world, only to have it disrupted by some middle-aged man telling me there is no way I look a day over twenty or some older woman telling me an hour long story about her book club.

I can also appreciate Article XII: The right of reasonable alcohol consumption:

No person, apart from those who are drunk and obnoxious or minors, shall be prohibited from imbibing an alcoholic beverage should they feel that it is a good idea, despite all indications to the contrary.

I usually avoid drinking on planes--mostly because I fly coach and it costs more than I'm willing to spend for a glass of wine. However, if I have the privilege of sitting in business class, where an alcoholic beverage is complimentary, I figure, why not? And I should certainly have that right. After all, it has been a hell of a day, and I have a long flight ahead of me, and the guy sitting ten rows behind me decided to store his incredibly large bag in the overhead compartment just above my seat, forcing me to gate check my bag because there is no more space.

A Nice Parting Gift

2011-08-03T13:56:00.000-05:00

How many of you are guilty of swiping those miniature bottles of soap, conditioner and lotion from a hotel bathroom before checking out? Come on, don't be shy. Trust me, we all do it, especially if they are a particularly nice brand. I mean, let's be honest, a tiny bottle with a Comfort Inn label stuck on it is not exactly appealing. But slap L'Occitane or Peter Thomas Roth or Crabtree & Evelyn on it, and it instantly becomes a high-end item. Luckily for us, more hotels are choosing to stock their bathrooms with products from well-known beauty companies. Hotels see it as a marketing strategy, as well as a way to boost awareness of certain brands. For guests, it's a nice little gift to take with us to use on our next trip. (Especially since hotel bath products conveniently fit the no-liquid-carry-ons-over-three-ounces rule.)

Peter Thomas Roth. Credit: WSJ

Hilton Hotels recently commissioned six new products from Peter Thomas Roth's cosmetics brand, which will be useed in all its name-brand hotels. It's mid-market brands, Embassy Suites and Doubletree now carry Crabtree & Evelyn. Since Hilton is a hotel within my price range, I'm happy to hear about these developments and upgrades.

The Ritz-Carlton features products with their own label, but I have a feeling that they are not cheaply made by any means. Especially considering that the hotel stocks its Club Floors and suites with Bulgari products--not too shabby.

Bliss. Credit: WSJ

Starwood's boutique hotel chain, W, opted for products that fit the modern, edgy decor of its hotels. It chose Bliss beauty brand, which appeals to a younger demographic--apparently my generation. I had honestly never heard of Bliss until reading about it being featured at W, but it has certainly caught my attention.

The question is, do these beauty brands gain anything from putting their products in hotel bathrooms? I assume since they are free to use and guests take them at their leisure, probably not. But I also believe that many people, particularly women, would go in search of the brand after seeing it in a hotel. If nothing else, it's publicity.

I don't often stay in hotels, but when I do, I definitely check out the merchandise in the bathroom. More often than not, it is a brand I normally wouldn't buy, either cause of price or personal preference. So it can be nice to get a sample of something different. And if I really like it--or if it smells amazing--I just might considering picking some up for myself when I get home. Or just grab the bottles by the handfuls and never look back.

Indy Wicked Weekend: My First Fam Tour of Edmonton

2011-07-31T22:00:00.004-05:00

Car races, chuck wagons and witches, oh my.(Yeah, I had to make the reference.) These were just some of the experiences I had on my first fam tour of Edmonton, Alberta, a place I have grown to really appreciate after my fast-paced weekend trip.

It all began with the amazing hospitality and care I received from the Edmonton Tourism team. My guides, Christie and Michelle, were incredible hosts, very vibrant, friendly, helpful and accommodating. From the moment I stepped off the plane, I was welcomed openly. And for someone who has never participated in one of these press trips, it made it very comfortable and less intimidating. The tour was made even better by the people in my group. Not only were they extremely nice, but their outgoing nature made it easier for mine to come to the surface. From the beginning, we formed an admirable camaraderie with one another, which just made the experience all the more pleasant.

My first day was made even better when I finally reached the hotel, the Union Bank Inn, and checked out my room. It was beautiful, quaint and comfortable. It was equipped with a fireplace, a queen size bed, and many other standard amenities. The colors and decor were warming, relaxing, and I definitely felt like taking a quick nap before the evenings festivities began. With the short amount of time I had, I decided to unpack a little and warm up, since it was about 50 degrees and raining when I flew in. On the desk, Edmonton Tourism had left me a backpack full of small gifts, information and even a stuffed animal. I didn't have much time to do anything, even grab something to eat, even though I was starving and my stomach felt like it was going to cave in on itself. At that very moment, to my surprise, a knock came at the door, and a fabulous wine and cheese platter floated in front of me. Perfect! What a way to start the night--and somewhat satisfy my gnarling stomach before dinner.

For dinner on our first night, Christie and Michelle took us over to Edmonton's Old Strathcona neighborhood, the city's historic district. We went to Packrat Louie Kitchen & Bar, where a table awaited us with a pre-set menu. I ordered the goat cheese salad, with roasted pumpkin seeds, fresh strawberries and spinach; followed by grilled chicken atop petite roasted potatoes and steamed vegetables; and finished the whole thing off with a hefty helping of tiramisu. Our host for the evening, Karen, the director of travel trade with Travel Alberta, ordered us an array of wine options as well--which, of course, I was happy to accept.

One thing I will point out about these press trips, you will never go hungry. I was consistently fed, and each meal was twice as big as the portions I eat at home. Also, libations are always available and usually on the house, but since it's technically a work trip, I knew to keep the drink count to a minimum.

Upon leaving the restaurant, our shuttle carted us over to Hawrelak Park for the Rivercity Shakespeare Festival, where we enjoyed watching a performance of Othello, one of my favorite plays from the Bard. (My one vexation was that they did have a Caucasian playing Othello, which is not exactly authentic to the play, but I figured I could overlook it.)The play was outside, under a canopy, which was not the most ideal location since it was a relatively cold day for the season. I was wearing jeans, tennis shoes, a fleece and a rain coat, and I was still cold enough that I gave in and bought a hot chocolate during intermission. I confirmed with Christie that this was not typical Edmonton summer weather, so I can at least promise that people who visit at the end of July will not be greeted with fall temperatures on a regular basis.

On Saturday, our group gathered in the lobby early to head over to the Fairmont Hotel McDonald, one of the city's choice accommodations. We were taken up to the Jasper room where, once again, I was greeted with gorgeously set tables with everything already prepared for us. As we entered, we were handed glasses of fresh juice. Each spot at the tables had a fruit, yogurt and granola parfait, as well as complimentary water bottles to keep--another free item to add to my backpack full of goodies. Our group, which was the leisure travel crew, was joined by the sport and events group and the convention and meetings group for breakfast. Once seated, we all chowed down on our parfaits, the fresh rolls and croissants on the table, and the bouquet of fruit. Then, the hotel brought out plates of spinach and feta frittatas, turkey sausage and seasoned potatoes. Again, way more than I usually eat in the morning, but so delicious. The hotel staff gave us a tour of the facility once breakfast was over, and I must say that this Fairmont is just as nice, if not nicer, than the many others I have seen. (Just a note, if you haven't visited a Fairmont, I strongly suggest going to one, even if you don't actually stay there.)

I finished off the morning with a lovely, relaxing canoe ride down the North Saskatchewan River. Thankfully, the water was not too high or fast, so we were able to handle the current pretty easily. Although, my canoe had trouble keeping a straight course, mostly because there were three of us and we could not manage to get a steady paddling rhythm--much to my chagrin as a Colorado girl.

The afternoon was spent in a mall. For those of you who don't know, Edmonton has the largest mall in North America--yes, even bigger than Mall of America. West Edmonton Mall features an indoor amusement park, the largest indoor water park, a ropes course, two mini golf courses, an NHL-size hockey rink, and over 300 stores. We ate lunch at a place called Deluxe Burger, a place known for its clubby feel and unique burgers, as well as its mini shopping carts full of fries. We wandered through the many wings of the mall, completely overwhelmed by all the attractions and stores. A few of my group members and I decided to make a skate around the ice rink, which was full of some humorous spills and many embarrassing moments we will all cherish for a long time.

After a quick stop off at the hotel to freshen up, we walked over to the Art Gallery of Alberta to Zinc Restaurant. Since it is in the art district, Zinc changes its dishes seasonally based on featured exhibits, and we certainly got an artistic treat. All the dishes were relatively small, manageable portions. We started with a cheese and olive plate, simple and tasty. Then we had a deconstructed lobster salad, with the lobster meat placed on a small spoon next to the greens. The main course was a beef tenderloin with mashed potatoes and vegetables. Our dessert was olive oil cake, which was surprisingly delicious, especially paired with a little vanilla ice cream. The whole day was topped off by a wonderful performance of the Broadway hit musical Wicked, the untold story about the wicked witch of Oz. I had seen the play a couple years ago, but it was just as good as I remember.

Our final day of the trip started off with a pancake breakfast at Fort Edmonton Park, one of the city's prized attractions. It is literally a living history museum and Canada's largest historical park. Our breakfast was served in the fur trading fort, which was rebuilt to look like the one used back in 1846 when traders sold their pelts to Native Americans in the area. After we ate, we toured through the park, starting in the earliest years, and then made our way into the frontier year of 1885, followed by what the city would look like as the new capital of Alberta in 1905, and finally into the modern city of 1920.

When our quick trip through time came to an end, we boarded the shuttle and headed over to the Edmonton Indy at City Center Airport. The Edmonton Indy is the 11th race in the IZOD IndyCar Series Circuit and one of two races that happens in Canada, so it was a pretty special event to witness, even though I'm not much of a race car fan. What made it more enjoyable was the fact that we had our own suite that overlooked where the pit crews were, so we had a front row view of the action. (We also had an open bar and a massive buffet of free food.) It was actually quite interesting to walk through the stalls and vendors at the race and watch all the fans, certainly a great people watching environment. Plus, wandering around the venue helped kill a little time, since the cars had to speed around the course 80 times. I will admit, it got a little boring, and the fact that it was so loud made it difficult to carry on a conversation with anyone. However, I survived and left feeling happy that I got to take part in something I never would have done.

Edmonton has a wide variety of dining options, which I witnessed during the Taste of Edmonton, our next stop on the agenda. There were choices for every palate, and the menu even included options that were vegetarian-friendly and gluten free, which was great for one of the girls in my group. Our first stop was the beer garden, where I sampled some of Canada's craft beers. The Aprikat from Alley Kat Brewery was particularly good. Then we walked around to the various vendors and selected our fare for the evening before hopping back onto our shuttle and making our way to the final stop: Northlands for the Chuckwagon Derby. The Capital EX Chuckwagon Derby features 36 drivers and their teams, all competing in 12 heats for a generous cash prize. I'm not sure I'll do a great job describing this, but basically, three teams, consisting of a driver controlling four horses pulling a wagon and two men riding two separate horses, line up at the start line. When the whistle blows, one man throws a small stove into the wagon, then the wagon has to do a figure eight around two barrels before doing a full lap around the arena. The other two riders follow, and must finish within 25 feet of their wagon when it crosses the finish line. Whichever team completes it the fastest with the fewest mistakes, wins. Simple, right?

The trip ended with a few final drinks with my host Christie and new friends, Kristine, Mo and Doug, then getting a couple precious hours of sleep before catching a horribly early 6 am flight. But it was worth it.

And I must say, for my first press trip, it was a truly incredible experience, and one I hope to have again soon.

Catering to Emerging Tourism Markets

2011-07-13T16:17:00.000-05:00

China and Iraq, two countries with seemingly nothing in common. Except for the fact that they are both being heavily targeted by the hospitality industry, but in two different respects.

Many major hotel chains in the United States are implementing changes in an effort to cater to Chinese tourists coming into our country, while at the same time making headway into building properties in certain regions of Iraq as economic development continues to boom.

Chinese tourists. credit:chinatraveltrends.com

Just this week, both Hilton and Starwood introduced new programs that focus on the well-being of Chinese guests. Starwood's program, called "Starwood Personalized Travel," will offer specific services for Chinese travelers, such as in-room tea kettles, slippers and translation services. The hotel is also updating its menu to include fare from China.

Hilton'a program is called "Hilton Huanying"--which is the Chinese word for "welcome." Basically, every Hiton hotel that has this service will employ a front desk worker that speaks Mandarin, provide a Chinese television station, and offer a full Chinese breakfast that includes dim sum, congee (rice porridge) and fried dough fritters.

These initiatives prove that the Chinese are slowly taking over the world. I mean that in the best sense. Their country and their corporations are becoming incredibly influential in our world, and Chinese travelers are expected to have a big impact on the travel industry. It's a similar trend that happened a few years ago, when Japan became a major mover in the economy and hotels started featuring rice, dried seaweed and miso soup on menus. You cater to the people who are going to provide the most business--or more appropriately the biggest amount of revenue. In my opinion, I think it's a smart move, because it shows that Americans can adapt to another country becoming a big world power. When America grew into a international powerhouse, every country made sure to teach their kids English and employ people who could communicate to foreign tourists from the U.S. Now, we have to do the same thing and prove that we can be multicultural.

Erbil, Iraq. Credit: WSJ

In Iraq, both Marriott and Best Western plan to build hotels in the city of Erbil. The properties are on course to be the first U.S. hotel brands in the region, and other companies have expressed interests in moving there.The Erbil Marriott will have 200 rooms and four restaurants and lounges and will open in 2014.

Many companies have been hesitant to enter the country due to civil unrest and perceptions of corruption in the corporate world. While there is still some question as to whether or not these locations will be successful--or safe--many in the travel industry believe that northern Iraq, near the border of Turkey and Syria, is much more stable and presents a great deal of potential.

I wish I could say that I would visit Iraq, but there is definitely a sense of uncertainty when it comes to traveling there, especially for Americans. Many countries in the Middle East have been affected by political upheaval this year, like Egypt and Lybia. Those events crippled their tourism businesses as many visitors fled for home or canceled trips, and big cruise companies dropped ports from voyages. I know that any tourism income Iraq had before the war has certainly disappeared, and it has been struggling to get back on its feet for a long time. I think the fact that hotels are starting to invest in property there is a promising sign that the economy is turning around and that business is starting to boom in Iraq. I certainly hope it gets to a point where people feel comfortable enough to go there, even with all the fighting and turmoil, which, God willing, will end soon.

Freelance Gig Finally Pays Off

2011-07-12T16:18:00.000-05:00

After working for over a year at my freelance writing gig, completing all of my assignments through research done online or speaking over the phone to tourism and convention bureau representatives, all my hard work has finally paid off. Next weekened, I am actually being sent on a travel writing assignment to Edmonton, Canada!

Not only do I get to visit a new destination and experience everything that Edmonton has to offer, but I get to do it the way a real travel writer does: Free of charge. That's right, my trip is being completely covered by the Edmonton Tourism group, all expenses paid. That means flight, hotel, food and activities. The only thing I need to pay for is any souvenirs or personal purchases I make along the way.

I was just sent my full weekend itinerary today, and I cannot wait to go on this trip. The great thing about these kind of promotional events is that they schedule a lot of exclusive activities for you that probably would not have been an option on a regular vacation. For instance, I get to see the musical Wicked during my stay, which originally might have been too expensive for me to buy. Also, I get to see the Edmonton Indy, one of the few race car competitions in Canada--something I would have never done otherwise. It's exciting, and now I am counting the days until I hop on that plane and head up to visit our neighbors to the North.

Finally, I get a glimpse at my potential future as a professional travel writer. And hopefully I can make some connections along the way to help further my career. It may only be one trip, but it's getting me one step close to my dream.

Would you do a digital detox?

2011-07-10T19:56:00.000-05:00

Imagine arriving at a hotel to check in and before they hand you the room key, they demand your cell phone, iPod and any other kind of electronic device you may be carrying. You stand there in utter shock. How can this person ask you to give up your phone, your main means of communication, your life source? Are they nuts?

I may not be that dependent on my phone, I barely use it to search the internet or listen to music or play games, but obviously I rely on it to stay in touch with people and check my email when I'm not near a computer. So the idea of going even a day without it does seem like a stretch. However, I think I could do it, probably easier than other people.

This is a trend going on in the hospitality industry, where hotels are offering "digital detox" packages to people, a way to completely "unplug" and get away. This is the kind of vacation I fully support, especially for those people who are permanently attached to their phones, to the point where it is an addiction. What makes these packages even better is that those who agree to them get either a discount on their hotel room or extra amenities. For a cheaper room, a free meal or spa treatment, I would gladly give up my electronics. I do not know many people who would do the same, but maybe I am the exception.

Feel free to read more about these "digital detox" packages in this article. And I encourage everyone to consider actually partaking in one.

Sam Adams Drank Here: A Patriotic 4th of July in Boston

2011-07-08T16:43:00.000-05:00

When I agreed to take a trip to Boston to visit my best friend, Fourth of July weekend seemed like the perfect time of year. What better place to celebrate our country's independence than in the city where it all started? What made the trip even better was that it ended up being a reunion with all of my high school friends, who now live all over the country. I knew the weekend would be epic, and I was not disappointed.

Within the first couple hours of getting off the plane at Logan International Airport, my friend Stephanie and I met up with three of the other girls, Hannah, Elise and Emily, my friend who lives in Boston. After dropping our bags at the hotel, we ventured over to Newbury Street--a quaint high-end shopping area--and found a cute place for brunch called Trident. There, we immediately embraced the theme of the weekend: a Red, White and Drunk Mimosa. It's made with blueberries, white grape juice, cranberry juice and Champagne--absolutely delicious and the perfect kick off to the weekend.

After scarfing down our breakfasts, we headed back to the hotel to meet up with our friend Christi who had just arrived. If you do not already know, Boston has a strict rule when it comes to buying and serving alcohol. First, you cannot purchase it on Sundays or holidays--so we had to stock up that afternoon on necessary libations. Second, there are no happy hour deals in the city, because the rule is that establishments cannot have any kind of deal that would promote excessive drinking, for instance half-price beers or $5 cocktails--these are the moments I truly appreciate Chicago's nightlife. Anyway, we headed over to the local Shaw's grocery store, where I learned about another interesting Boston rule: If you have an out of state ID and you are under 25, you cannot buy alcohol at the grocery store. Luckily, most of the girls I was with were 25, so that was not a problem.

We made our way to the hotel, drinks in hand, when we were abruptly stopped in the lobby. Here is another little travel tidbit for you all: Apparently, you cannot bring outside alcohol into a hotel--or at least not The Colonnade in Boston. If this is in fact a global policy, it should be prominantly posted on the hotel's website and all guests should be informed of it upon check-in so as to avoid these kinds of awkard and frustrating encounters. (I would also like to note that hotel employees should be trained to better handle these incidents, since a guest's happiness and comfort are the most important thing to maintain in the hospitatlity industry.) I will spare you the details of the events that occurred over the next two hours, but in the end, the hotel won--to some extent.

Where the Colonnade certainly regained points was with its rooftop pool. While the pool itself was relatively small, the seating area was very comfortable and spacious, with lots of lounging chairs, couches and tables. And the wait staff was very attentive, friendly and accommodating. (And the drinks were not bad either, depsite being a little pricey.)

When in Boston--especially during the Fourth--it's a must to go on the Freedom Trail. Whether you hit every landmark along the way or not, it is worth checking out some of the incredible buildings, old graveyards and historic locations where some of the most famous events occured in our country's past. While my friends and I were unable to make it the whole way--due mostly to key stops at certain pubs, including the first tavern ever in the nation, the Bell in Hand--I would say the Trail was one of my favorite parts of the trip.

On my second day in Boston, my friends and I took part in another Boston tourist staple: A Duck Tour. Ducks were built back in the early days of World War II to help allies unload cargo and soldiers in areas where there were no dock facilities. The vehicles, known back then as DUKWs, were half boat and half truck that could run on land and water. Of Boston's fleet of Ducks, we had the privilege of riding on South End Sara, and our conDUCKtor was Frim "DucKarma" Jolly: Boston's Good Time Guru. For the next 80 minutes, we were led by our guru-guide through the streets of Beantown, where he pointed out all the "FIRSTS" of the city--the first public garden, the first public school, the first free-exchange library (you get the idea). When the Duck made its way onto the Charles River, our guide took a little break and let us take the wheel--or more accurately ME! Yes, I had the privilege of driving the Duck through the high-traffic waters of Boston. While our trusty guide was right beside me, nerves got the best of me at times, and I worried about possibly crashing into the boats floating next to us. Alas, no such thing happened, and I returned safely to my seat to enjoy the rest of the journey. When the river portion of the tour was over, we headed back through the city to where we began. And by the time we disembarked, we were starving, craving some much needed New England Clam Chowda. (Say it the Boston way.)

Emily took us to Legal Seafood for a late lunch, where we met the final addition to our group, our friend Sari. We all orderd a cup of chowda, followed by random plates of muscles, oysters and fish and chips. In an effort to be a bit more adventurous and outgoing--even though I consider myself a risk taker--I ventured to try some of the slippery, slimy specimens my friends were happily scooping out of shells. It is true, I had never tried an oyster or a muscle before this moment, so I figured, there is no time like the present. With that thought in my head, I slid the oyster onto my tongue, let the taste and texture briefly register, and then swallowed it down without another second to waste. Not bad, but I'm not sure I would order a whole plate for myself. As for the muscle, well, let's just say it was lucky I was able to keep it down. Perhaps it was the texture or the fact that I had to chew it, but something did not sit well. Despite not being a fan of these particular dishes, and even though Legal Seafood is a chain, I definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys seafood.

Our evening contained even more dishes from the ocean, as dinner took place at a sushi joint called Haru, located in the Prudential Center, or as the Bostonians call it "The Pru." Since part of this trip was to celebrate three of the girls' birthdays and one of them getting engaged, a sake bomb was certainly in order. I've only ever done a sake bomb where you poor the liquor into the beer, so attempting to slam the table, resulting in the shot glass dropping, was kind of a challenge. Some of the girls were able to get it, but my attempt failed, so I just plopped it in myself. We finished off the rest of the sake and shared a heaping plate of colorful, scrumptious rolls, which I would consume again. When dinner ended, we headed to Prudential Tower where we ventured up to "Top of the Hub," where drinks and dessert were waiting. One bottle of Champagne, four decadent desserts and seven signature drinks made our special girls night almost complete. Of course there were toasts and tears devoted to our long-standing friendships that have been able to survive both time and distance. Once again, I have to credit the transportation in this country, making it relatively easy to bring seven high school friends from across the country together in one city for a memorable weekend. It certainly was amazing. With the somewhat foggy view of the city before us, we cheered to our lives both in separate parts of the world, and together for these few precious days.

For those of you who are still with me, and have not gagged from my sentimental storytelling, I will spare you events from the rest of the evening, as they mostly involve bar hopping, drinking and meeting many Bosotn locals.

Fourth of July arrived with a bright morning and eighty degree weather, the perfect environment for our patriotic activities. We woke up early so we could snag a good spot at the Old State House, where we heard the Declaration of Independence being read from the very balcony it was first proclaimed from back in 1776. I will admit that I do not know the Declaration well, and some of it was tough to follow since the diction in those days is far more sophisticated than our simplistic prose, but it was still extremely moving to hear those words stating our separation from the Bristish, our country's determination to be free and to dictate our own lives.

The final flourish of the weekend was, of course, the fireworks. To make sure we got a decent viewing spot, our crew departed early to stake territory on the esplanade right next to the river. Unfortunately, a lot of prime grass space was already taken at 5:30, but we figured we would have better luck on the Cambridge side--at least that's what our Cambridge compatriots told us. But before we could get there, we stumbled upon a prime spot on the Harvard (Hahvad) Bridge, right in the middle of the river with a perfect view of the island from where the fireworks would be set off. Since we had a lot of time to kill before the show, a few of us braved the crowds along the water to go in search of sustenance. We returned with arms ladened with hot dogs and sausages and fried dough, oh my. We popped open some of our previously purchased drinks--yes, the very same we could not bring into the hotel--and proceeded to enjoy our dinners.

Over the course of the next few hours, the area around the river became more and more packed, making it difficult to get anywhere. If you decide to go to Boston for the Fourth, and choose to sit on the bridge to watch the fireworks, here is a little piece of advice: Use the bathroom well in advance. With less than an hour before the show was scheduled to start, Emily, Stephanie and I decided to make a quick dash to the restroom, thinking we would have plenty of time to get back. Little did we know that the police would proceed to close down access to it just as we were trying to get back to our group. I begged with the guard to let us through the barriers, since we had been in before and all our friends were there, but his sympathy was nonexistant. So, in a desperate attempt to rejoin our group, we scurried over to the side of the bridge and down the grass so we were somewhat out of view, and then leaped over the railings before any of the officers could turn around. My heart was still pounding when we reached our crew, and my leg was throbbing from slamming it into the rail, but the fireworks were totally worth it.

You know that feeling of complete and utter aw when you witness something so spectacular that it takes your breath away? That's what watching these fireworks was like. First there was general excitement about them actually starting, then joy and exhiliration as each new fire cracker burst into a different image, and then just pure amazement as the final couple minutes of gut-wrenching, tear-enducing explosions went off in a fit of color and smoke. It truly left me speechless. Emily was in tears. Smiles spread across all our faces. The perfect end to a truly perfect weekend.

90+ and Sunny: My Week in Myrtle Beach

2011-07-01T21:05:00.000-05:00

There is always that fear when you go on vacation that weather in your planned destination will be miserable, while everyone back at home enjoys days of clear skies and high temperatures. For my week in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, this was not the case. Within minutes of arriving, I was greeted with 80 degree, humid and sunny conditions, and it pretty much stayed that way the whole trip.

My first taste of the salty, moist Myrtle Beach air came as I stepped off the plane and onto the airport tarmack, a pleasant introduction to the quaint ocean town. (Little did I know at the time I would grow to despise the airport, but that story will come later.) Once inside the terminal, I met up with my friend Matt, who went to college with me in Milwaukee and now lives in Pennsylvania. We proceeded to reminisce briefly while grabbing some lunch and waiting for our other friend, Bob, to arrive from Newark, where he had been delayed an hour. (This would be the first of many flight delays experienced on this trip.) To kill time, Matt and I grabbed the rental car and took a quick drive over to one of the main stretches of Myrtle Beach, which can only be described as a garish bargain area meant for underage college partiers. I can honestly say I have not seen so many flashy tourist shops selling character and sports merchandise and shoddy clothing, at least not since spring break freshman year when we went to Panama City Beach, Florida.

Once Bob arrived and we had the rental car packed up and ready to go, we drove the 20-some mile distance to the Litchfield Resort, which would be our home for the next week. Along highway 17--which I got to know very well over the course of the trip--I noticed dozens of cheap looking seafood spots and cheesy mini golf courses. Two things I was desperately looking forward to enjoying. And how could I not in a place that's known for its delicious, fresh seafood and unlimited array of mini golf? When in Myrtle Beach, right?

Driving through the pristinely kept front gate of the resort, I felt centuries away from the abject scene we had witnessed earlier. Private condo units set steps away from fresh-water lakes surrounded by lengthy reeds, cranes sauntering through the brush searching for their afternoon meal. Families sat under an awning, fishing, carrying on without a care in the world, while other guests basqued by the pool, soaking in the last of the days light. Our condo sat at the end of a long winding road, #91. We had arrived at last. We quickly changed into our swimsuits and headed over to the beach where we planned to spend most of our time. Most people had packed up for the day and were making their way into their beach-front homes for some dinner, leaving the oceanfront practically bare. As I toed the rushing waves, the slightly cool water refreshed my travel wary body, preparing me for the long week ahead. After a quick walk down the beach and through part of the resort, we made our way to the grocery store to stock up on food necessities and libations--though Bob's grandfather had stocked us up nicely before we arrived.

My first meal in Myrtle Beach was--of course--seafood. I also got my first taste of a local favorite: hushpuppies, basically little balls of fried dough. While the fresh fish was seasoned perfectly and melted instantly in my mouth, I was most impressed by the technique used to cook my food. The restaurant had placed all the ingredients into a brown paper bag, and baked it. When it arrived at the table, the waitress broke open the bag and dumped it on my plate, with the fish landing squarely on top of the rice and vegetables.

Our first day was spent lounging lazily on the beach (after a quick three mile run on the beach, which, in the humidity, felt like 10 miles). We made sure to lather up on sunscreen and drink plenty of water, but despite my efforts, I still managed to develop a red, slightly raw, color on my shoulders. Probably one of the most unfortunate things that can happen on vacation is getting burned the very first day, so I encourage everyone to load up right away, even if you're dying to get some color. Trust me, you'll thank me later when you get to enjoy every single day out in the sun, rather than just one or two.

In the afternoon, we ventured back to the airport (trip #2) to pick up Ashley, our fourth and final companion. Back at the condo, we cooked up an impressive plate of chicken kabobs and roasted vegetables, pairing it with the first of many rounds of cocktails. Once we finished dinner, we made ourselves some drinks-to-go and went for a relaxing stroll on the beach to watch the sunset. Past experiences on the ocean in the evening told me to grab a sweater or something in case the sea breeze forced a chill, but to my surprise and pleasure, there was absolutely no need for another layer. The warmth seemed to dominate the day and barely waned at night. As we traipsed along, each of us pointed out the house we hoped to someday own, the massive beach-front properties that gave no indication that we were in a recession. Mine was modern, painted blue with white trimmings and a spiral staircase between the upper and lower deck.

Our second full day, we experienced the true pain of a heat index that tops 110 degrees. All those days I begged for warmer weather, I will now no longer complain. We could barely stay outside for a few minutes before feeling like we were melting. But as much as everyone wants to hear about we baked out in the heat all day, I know there are others things to talk about. That night, we made our way to Broadway at the Beach, where we enjoyed large platters of scrumptious sushi. We then spent the rest of the evening walking around a shopping area, sampling local wine (very fruity and sweet), indulging on scoops of ice cream and freshly made fudge, and trying on various cute outfits (at least that's what me and Ash did while the guys enjoyed a beer in the bar across the way).

The next evening, after making a nice meal of pasta and garlic bread, we headed over to one of those ultra cheesy mini golf courses to take part in some much needed physical activity. We encountered waterfalls, caves, rivers, and lots of other obstacles typical of good quality mini golf courses. The whole night was filled with laughter, music, fun and cake batter vodka--all Matt.

Wednesday was Matt and Ashley's last full day, and we spent it lounging at the pool and relaxing. Since it was so hot out, we decided to spend the afternoon inside and went to see a movie. After the film, we headed over to a seafood joint Bob raved about called Nance's. We all got a platter of delicious seafood, swordfish, crab, oysters, lobster and of course, hushpuppies. After finishing our meal, we headed over to the pier to listen to some live music over the crashing waves. Yes, it was all country, but still a nice experience, and a prime opportunity to people watch.

On Matt and Ash's final say, we spent the morning on the beach, enjoying the waves and the sun. Bob and I drove them to the airport (trip #3) and dropped them off for their flight to Atlanta, where Matt would be catching a connection to Detroit and Ash would be making her way back to Milwaukee. No more than 10 minutes after leaving, Matt called to tell us the flight was delayed and he would miss his connection, so we turned around quickly (trip #4) to pick him up. We ventured up North to a different shopping area where we found a really great fish market, where the guys got full platters of crab legs, crawfish and potatoes--a guy's dream. It was pouring rain outside, so it was no surprise when we got a call from Ash telling us her flight was delayed out of Myrtle Beach and she needed to be picked up. So we made the best of their extra night and revisited out college days with a game of beer pong--or four or five games.

Our last full day was spent taking Matt to the airport (trip #5) and then heading over to downtown Myrtle Beach where we had lunch on the beach and wandered around some of the cheaper areas of the city. By mid afternoon, it was time to take Ash to her flight, (trip #6). After dropping her off, Bob and I went back to the condo and made the best of the rest of the day by going to the pool and then making a quick dinner. But just as we were finishing our meal, we got a call from Ash telling us she needed to be picked up again. Trip #7. The evening was spent on the phone to Delta getting Ash some compensation for her troubles, and then enjoying some delivered pizza and a rented movie. Unfortunately, Ash had an early flight out on Saturday morning, so Bob took her to the airport around 5 am, (trip #8 for him). Once we packed up and had some food, we made locked up the condo and made our way out.

Even though my trip was not as touristy as it could have been, I know there are plenty of tours and attractions I could have participated in. The bottom line was I didn't want to leave; the entire trip was exactly what I needed. A relaxing week spent in the sun with some of my best friends. The weather was absolutely perfect and it was just the distance from Chicago that was necessary.

A Day of Armchair Travel

2011-06-17T10:20:00.004-05:00

I read about this concept in an article and couldn't help but be intrigued by it. What exactly is armchair travel? It's basically being transported to a destination without actually leaving your seat--or kitchen, or office, or wherever you happen to be situated. There are the typical mediums for armchair travel: movies, music, books, pictures, etc. But there are also some other ways to discover a place without physically going there. Food, drinks, language, art and news stories are all methods of learning, providing want-to-be travelers with the means to venture around the world, even if they cannot find the time or the money to actually do it.

To give you a better idea of what I mean, I'll give you a glimpse into what a day of armchair travel--or as the article sometimes calls it, lazy travel--can look like. As a news analyst, I spend the day perusing the internet for stories about current events relating to business, politics, technology, marketing, hospitality, lifestyle, and, of course, travel. In the morning, I traveled to the Philippines (U.S. issued a travel warning to the country), Charleston, SC (residents there are suing Carnival Cruises over their massive ship), San Francisco, CA (the Fairmont Hotel is being put up for sale), and Vancouver, Canada (Canucks fans went on a rampage after losing the Stanley Cup finals to Boston). Within the span of one work day, I can move from one coast to the other, leap over the pond, scale the terrain abroad, and cruise back on over to my desk, all before clocking out. What's even better is that I learn something in the process. I gain knowledge about a place through the events that are going on right now. News stories are a window into how people are living, responding to the daily problems, triumphs, concerns and hopes that they encounter every day. I will admit that reading through story after story can get a little tedious, despite all the fascinating things happening in our world. Also, the articles are so brief, it doesn't give me a chance to really get lost in a single location. Just as I'm getting pulled in, the final sentence approaches and I move on to the next place.

Books offer more of an opportunity to immerse yourself in a destination. As I pedalled and climbed to sweaty glory in the wee hours of the morning, I did it all from the mountain farms of southern Appalachia. I was reading Barbara Kingsolver's Prodigal Summer, the story of three individuals whose lives are magically entwined through nature, love and the wilderness. I felt connected to this world I had never seen, and it made me feel like I knew what people living in that region of America are like, how they talk, their daily routines, their culture, their general environment. I still have more to read, more to learn, but I am eager to venture back there in the evening before drifting off into my own dream world.

But before going to Appalachia, I visited Spain. My friend Laura and I sat down at a table in a bustling, warm restaurant in Chicago, only to quickly drift into the kitchen of a Spanish Tapas bar, the spicy aromas wafting around our heads, penetrating our senses. The sizzling plates of spiced potatoes in tomato sauce, mushrooms stuffed with pork and cheese, and grilled fresh vegetables titillated our appetites and rocketed us into another culture completely diverse from the modern American city outside. We were in a quiant town in the Spanish neighborhoods outside Madrid, sitting at a wrought-iron table atop cobble-stone streets, sipping sweet sangria in the afternoon sun.

The perfect end to a day of armchair travel.

Airplane of the Future?

2011-06-15T15:35:00.000-05:00

The future is a curious thing, who knows what people will wear, what kind of homes they will live in, what new gadgets they will use. It's a mystery only to be revealed as it becomes the present (deep enough for you?) However, Airbus is giving us a preview of what the future of air travel may look like.

The company revealed pictures and computer-generated video of what planes will look like in the year 2050--or at least what it predicts for the future The plane shows a long fuselage with duel fins on each side of the tail area, giving it a futuristic look. Airbus told reporters that it wants to do away with first- business- and coach-class, and instead offer zones for relaxation, activities and work.

The impressive images show uneeded seats at the rear of the plane collapsing, while the rest of the seats are moved to provide travelers more legroom (stretching out will be easier than ever) and the seats will morph to fit passengers' bodies (no more worrying about accommodating larger people or passengers getting angry about having to purchase a second seat if they do not meet a certain weight requirement). One of the most noteworthy features is that the aircraft will be built of "intelligent" materials that turn from solid to transparent on command, giving passengers a panoramic view of the sky. (I don't know about anyone else, but this would scare me just a little bit. I find comfort in the confines of the opaque cabin.)

As far as those "zones" are concerned, there are various ideas that Airbus proposed. The "vitalizing zone" is meant for relaxation, incorporating mood lighting, aromatherapy and acupressure treatments. The "tech zone" will offer corportate travelers a space to connect with their offices or clients via computers or other devices. The "interactive zone" will be in the center of the cabin and allow passengers to play a round of golf through a virtual projection. (I assume other sports or games could also be played. Round of tennis at 30,000 feet anyone?)

Of course, these are all just grand dreams envisioned by company engineers and whether we will see any of these features in future planes will depend greatly on both the quality of the technology and whether airlines will decide to purchase this impressive--and can we say slightly unrealistic--jet of the future.

For a better idea of Airbus' concept future plane, check out this video:

The Drama of Travel

2011-06-13T16:32:00.000-05:00

There are varying levels of drama when it comes to travel. There's the stressful itinerary and planning aspect that relates to catching your flight on time, or dealing with lost luggage, or arguing with a stewardess over a missed connection, or realizing the hotel does not have your reservation saved, or discovering the tour you wanted to do has been sold out since January. Those are all scenarios we have dealt with and are prepared to deal with if they happen to arise. But then there's the unforseen drama of travel, the experiences we never see coming. These usually involve travel companions or acquaintances we meet along the way, and they can usually cause more anguish and turmoil than an unfortunate shift in plans, because the drama is always personal.

When you make plans to travel with friends or family, or go visit someone for a trip, there is always the chance that issues can arise. First, money. People usually set budgets for themselves when they travel--unless they are those lucky individuals who have the luxury of splurging without worrying about what it will do to their savings account. On average, most people will decide ahead of time what they want to spend money on, whether it be a few dinners at upscale restaurants or a shopping spree or sightseeing tours. However, when you travel with others, more likely than not, their budget is different. While it may seem like this should not cause problems, money is probably the number one culprit for arguments, especially when traveling. One person may get jealous that another is spending so much, or may feel pressure to spend more than he or she has. There's also the reverse side, where one may feel guilty purchasing an expensive outfit or meal while their friend cannot afford it. Money is always a difficult subject to deal with, and I know from personal experience that it can create some extremely tense situations. The best thing to do is to discuss your budget well ahead of time, making sure your travel companion knows exactly how you feel about expenses. It may not solve everything, but at least there is an understanding established before the trip begins.

Second, personal agendas. Everyone has activities they want to do and sites they want to visit, but the reality is that a group trip is not all about one person. If you have travel buddies, you need to respect that there may be things they want to do that you do not, and vice versa. Sometimes there are two extremes, with one person wanting to spend their vacation relaxing, no agenda necessary; and the other scheduling one event after another hoping to keep every minute of the day occupied with something. This can create some real problems, and in those cases, it's best to go your separate ways, even just for a day. Otherwise, neither one will get what they want out of the trip.

Third, general proximity. Being around the same people for a certain amount of time can become irksome for anyone, especially people who like their privacy or enjoy alone time. Also, there are some personalities that just clash, no matter how well you know the person or how tolerant you may be. And travel can add a whole other level since it takes you out of your comfort zone and into a different world. You are already dealing with the new environment, and a conflicting personality in your travel group will not help the situation. Some of you may be rolling your eyes at this, thinking only an idiot would go on a trip with someone he or she did not get along with. Well, you would be surprised how travel can bring out sides of people you never expected. Once again, if this kind of drama comes up, taking a step back from it and spending some time alone is probably the best solution. Either that, or you could take the confrontational approach and let the person know their voice sounds like nails on a chalkboard.

These are some of the most common dramatic events--at least that I've experienced. And I can only hope that my next two trips will be completely drama free. If not, the best thing to do is roll with the punches, and make every effort to avoid a ruined vacation. But overall, I have found that traveling with friends can be one of the most memorable experiences, and nothing should interfere.

Creating the Perfect Travel Itinerary

2011-06-06T16:12:00.000-05:00

Two weeks. 11 days, if I'm being completely accurate. That's how long I have until I take my first vacation in almost a year. (Yes, I know I went home for Christmas, but that doesn't really count in my opinion.) I've purchased outfits, made lists of items I still need to get, requested the time off work, and scheduled the appropriate manicure/pedicure/haircut appointments so I look my absolute best before jetting off to Myrtle Beach.

Now the question is, what to do when I get there. While I am super uppity about planning my flight itinerary, hotel accommodations and car rental, the rest of the trip is usually left up in the air--or left up to someone else. The great part about vacation is that you are not required to have every moment of your day planned out. You can get up at any hour and decide right on the spot what to do that day. And that's basically what I intend to do on my trip. However, there are many people who have to follow a schedule, who like to have activities planned for each day, and like following a regiment so that they can get the most out of their destination.

For those over-planners, or even those laid-back travelers, there are tools that can help you create the perfect itinerary for your personality. Obviously, you could go the traditional route and pick up a printed travel guidebook from the store and flip through the pages to select attractions that appeal to you. However, in our tech-savvy, digital world, physical books pale in comparison to the mobile applications and websites out there. In an article from USA Today, there are two new tools to help plan a digital itinerary that you can take with you on your phone or tablet:

SpotWorld is a free iPhone app that creates itineraries for 32 cities based on travel-guide content and social-media recommendations. Travelers can customize from existing itineraries or ask Facebook friends for tips.
Plnnr.com acts as a virtual travel planner where users can automatically create an hour-by-hour schedule based on a series of questions about the trip, like dates, length of stay, theme, intensity and luxury level.

These are just two options, and unfortunately they are a little limiting. For me, neither one is helpful because they do not feature Myrtle Beach. So, I have to rely on other sources to plan my trip. Luckily, as a freelance travel writer, I do a lot of research on various places around the world.

If you would like another technology-based suggestion, try TripIt. I talked about this free application in a previous blog post (See: Travel and Technology), but just to refresh your memory, it will take all your travel information and build an itinerary around it. You can forward all your confirmation emails for flights, hotels, etc, and it will keep it all in one place. You can add maps, pictures, recommendations and more as you continue to plan. It's a pretty helpful tool, since it will work with whatever city you plan to visit.

If you prefer doing your own research, I recommend visiting the website for the city's tourism and convention bureau. This will feature all the major attractions, restaurants, activities and events in your destination, as well as articles about unique spots, hidden gems and must-sees. Most of the time, you can talk to a representative who can help you set up a travel itinerary. If a tourism office seems too promotional and focused on marketing, then check out any of the travel-booking websites like TripAdvisor, Expedia, Travelocity, etc. All of them have suggested itineraries on their sites, as well as recommendations from other travelers.

If you are one of those people who does not need to plan every second months in advance, but choose to figure it out when you arrive, just ask the concierge at your hotel. They can recommend a variety of sites to see or events to attend. After all, they live there, they probably know better than a website or a guidebook. I find asking locals or friends who know the area for their suggestions, because they will more than likely give you a tip you would not find anywhere else.

Since I'll be going to Myrtle Beach with a friend who has been there before, I'm relying on him to offer ideas for how to fill the days. Though I'm not sure he will be able to pull me away from my schedule of lounging on the beach, swimming in the pool, walking along the coast, shopping and catching up on my reading. Yeah, that sounds like the perfect travel itinerary to me.

Groupon Enters the Travel Market

2011-06-01T15:06:00.000-05:00

Happy June, everyone! In celebration of the summer season and the (hopefully) warm months ahead, I have some exciting news for all you budget travelers out there. Groupon is launching a new travel deals site!

Now, I know that LivingSocial already features travel deals, and I have certainly looked into their offerings. But what could be better than another popular discount site providing us with even more sensational deals on hotels, airfare and car rentals? This just means more options for the consumers, and I can totally get behind that.

Groupon collaborated with Expedia on the website, so travelers will get access to more than 50,000 hotels--obviously not all at once, but hopefully through the course of the next few months or years. As far as I know, Groupon Getaways--that's what it's called--has not officially launched, but you can go online and sign up to receive the daily deals via email. I plan on signing up right now, so I can be first in line when a half-price weekend trip to Florida pops up or a five-night stay in Bermuda becomes available for 60% off.

Not only will this website provide significantly discounted trips, but it could help spark some inspiration in you travelers looking for something new and different. Or plant the desire to make a spontaneous, quick escape somewhere for a weekend. For those who read my blog regularly, you will recall my post about single travel...well this is the perfect opportunity to capitalize on a great deal and steal some alone time.

As much as this sounds like a sales pitch for Groupon--and trust me, I hate being a cheerleader for companies--anything that relates to travel--especially cheap travel--is reason enough to shake some pom poms. So go ahead and sign up for the website, and when it launches at the end of this month, be ready to scoop up some pretty sweet deals.

No-Vacation Nation

2011-05-25T13:39:00.000-05:00

Yep, that's what America is called. Why? Because we cannot take a break from our busy work lives to take advantage of the few vacation days we are granted every year.

Compared to other countries, we get a meager amount of paid time off. For those of you who know me, or read my blog enough, you know how I feel about vacation and taking time away from work. I think it is a travesty that we only get two weeks off a year. Think about it...12 months of work, five days a week, eight to nine hours of work a day. I'm not in the mood to do the math, but that translates to a lot of days spent in the office. Sitting at a desk. Toiling away in front of a computer. Working long hours on presentations, meetings, projects. It can become thoroughly exhausting, having a negative effect on our personal lives, health and overall happiness. And yet we hang on to those vacation days, reluctant to spend even one.

Why?!?

There are many theories behind this workaholic epidemic. The first is that some companies just straight up do not like employees taking off a lot of time, which is why many people refuse to take long vacations and will limit their trips to one week stints. Also, many companies expect workers to call or check their email while away from their desk, making it nearly impossible to have a legitimate vacation from work. A major readon that Americans travel less or take less time off is because companies due not have a legal obligation to offer vacation. Places like Germany, for instance, requires employers to offer four weeks or more paid vacation, and Finland, Brazil and France guarantee six weeks. But U.S. employers are not mandated by law to offer vacation time, so about a quarter of all American worker do not have access to it. This makes America the only advanced nation that does not guarantee workers annual leave, according to reports.

So what's going on here? Obviously, there are many companies who do provide vacation to employees, but many simply do not use it, or at least not all of it. An article from CNN said that only 57% of workers use up all the days they are entitled to, compared to 89% of workers in France. The average employee gets about 18 days of vacation, but most only use 14. If you figure each American leaves those 4 days unused, that means there are 448 million vacation days just sitting there, waiting to be enjoyed. So why do we do this? Well, when it comes down to it, we are still working on getting out of a recession, and many people are reluctant to be away from the office for fear of being laid-off. I mean, if a company is looking to save money, the first ones to go are the ones who are not around as often.

Another theory is that we like to work. A happiness study showed that working more makes Americans happier than Europeans. I mean, it's called the American Dream because you work hard for it, which means more people associate hard work with success. So while Europeans look to leisure to complete their lives, Americans look to work. Perhaps I should move.

I'm not saying I hate working. In fact, work is a good way to stay busy, keep me motivated and make a living. But, I also believe strongly in the benefits of taking a day off. Just this past Monday, I came into the office, prepared to work. Unfortunately, our office network and internet were down, making it pretty much impossible to do anything. So, a lot of people worked from home. My manager and I decided that would not be the most productive route, and took the day off. It was a much needed chunk of time to take care of other tasks, go for a run, cook a nice meal and relax. I felt energized when I came to work Tuesday, less stressed and prepared to take on the day. If one day off could do all that, just imagine taking the full 18 days I am allowed every year.

Other countries cringe when they hear Americans usually only get two weeks off, encouraging their image of us working like robots. While companies in the U.S. argue that too much vacation time would hurt productivity and get rid of a competitive edge, critics say there is no evidence to support that. Maybe there is something to be said for Americans working as hard as we do, but I believe that there is a lack of life balance that needs to be acknowledged. It's not just about working hard and bringing in the money, it is also about taking time out for family and yourself.

As far as my minimum amount of vacation days goes, you can bet I'm taking every single one of them. I will not be one of those Americans who backlogs a few days, because more often than not those will not transfer over to the next year, and will be lost forever in the abyss of unused time off.

The Art of Traveling Solo

2011-05-16T08:12:00.000-05:00

A recent study found that a broken heart can result in actual physical pain, meaning that when we end a romantic relationship, our bodies can be affected as well as our hearts. Social and romantic rejection can be just as harmful as damage to our bodies, which leads me to believe that's the reason we hang on as hard as we do. And yet breakups are bound to happen, and there is no magical pain reliever to make the ache and sadness go away. But there is travel.

Perhaps the idea of going on a trip by yourself is even more depressing than the fact that it takes a whole paycheck to fill up your gas tank...but hear me out. Traveling alone can be a very liberating experience. Not only will you get the chance to see some incredible places along your journey, but you will also gain a new sense of self worth and confidence in your abilities. You have to rely on yourself when you travel solo, which means you will be taking care of everything, including hotel, food, sightseeing and entertainment, all on your own. It can be a little daunting at first, but once you do it, you will realize you are capable of a lot more than you thought. Suddenly, the things that seemed intimidating before will seem easy. Bring on that flat tire or that 10K!

Traveling alone gives you the freedom to do what you want to do, without worrying about someone else's agenda. That may sound selfish, but who cares? You're on your own, so all you should care about is you. And if you happen to meet a companion along the way, great! That's another great part of solo travel, the incredible people you encounter. Because being alone will ultimately force you out of your comfort zone and push you to talk to the stranger at the next table or inquire about where that woman got her dress. Who knows, you could meet your new best friend or find your soul mate. Hey, it could happen.

If you cannot seem to think of a good place to go alone, here is a list of ideas that may give you a good starting off point.

The Irish are some of the friendliest people around, so what better place to go and meet some new friends than the Emerald Isle. And if you recall an earlier post I wrote, Ireland is in need of tourists, and the rates are very reasonable. The Independent Traveler suggests going to the Dublin Writers Museum and going on a literary tour of famous authors. If you are more of an outdoorsy type, take a walking tour of the Wicklow Mountains, Valleys and Lakes.
Some of the most adventurous people out there are Australians, and a trip to their country could give you a little boost into the solo travel state of mind. The biggest issue you will face is getting there, since it is pretty pricey and the flight is incredibly long. Sydney is the obvious first city to visit, and there is plenty to do there, you will certainly never get bored.
Many people like to go to tropical locations on their vacations, but those are usually associated with romance. But Iceland certainly isn't. If you visit, you must go to the Blue Lagoon Spa, a large outdoor geothermal bath surrounded by lava rocks.
For a little taste of everything, Peru has one of the most diverse landscapes, cultures and food. Try the Inca Trail in the Andes, one of the top hiking trails that leads to the famous ruins of Machu Picchu. Check out Cusco to meet other fellow travelers making the trek to the historic location.
Turkey is a great exotic location to discover a unique culture and its traditions. Istanbul is a historic city with a modern vibe, where the nightlife is just as exciting as New York City or Los Angeles. There are some areas in Turkey that women should not venture to alone, so just make sure you are aware of your surroundings.
Singapore is a great little island at the tip of Malaysia that is perfect for experiencing the far east without going too far outside your comfort zone. For foodies, go during July for the Singapore Food Festival, and music lovers will love the Sun Festival in the fall. If you go, definitely check out the Fountain of Wealth, the Guinness-approved largest fountain in the world.
If you want to stay in this country, there's no better place to visit than New York. Half the population is already single, so a solo traveler will fit right in. Not only is there a great social scene, but it's got some of the best shopping anywhere.

I realize that many of these locations cater a bit more to women, but men can enjoy them as well. But some places that are a bit more male oriented include Las Vegas (I know, pretty cliche), Bankok (also featured in the next Hangover flick), Seoul, Miami, Buenos Aires and Barcelona. For a longer list of destinations, check out this article from AskMen.com.

If you are still wary about the thought of hitting the road sans friends or family, there are other options. Numerous companies offer trips dedicated to singles, and the beauty is that you won't actually be alone; there will be other singles along for the ride. So you can all be single together.

SinglesCruise.com is a cruise-only company that caters to singles. While the whole ship is not reserved for singles, about twenty percent of it will be taken up by people in the program. They throw cocktail parties, games, lectures, and nightly singles-only get togethers. The company also hosts a pre-cruise meet and greet so guests can get to know each other before going on the trip.

The Connecting: Solo Travel Network is a good place to learn about single travel deals. It costs a fee to be a member, but some think its worth it for the discounts, special offers and great people you can meet through the organization.

Obviously, single travel is difficult especially when many companies and hotels charge for double occupancy. But more and more businesses are learning the benefits of embracing solo travelers, mostly because it is a growing segment in the travel industry. A lot of cruise lines are dropping their single supplement fees for singles, and many travel agents and tour companies are working to expand their offerings to provide more affordable and attractive trips. Singles Travel International launched more "weekend sample tours," which are short, two- or three-day trips to places in North America. These are quick vacations to help ease people into single travel, and are a popular way to escape for a weekend.

I am well aware of how difficult being alone can be, but I do believe that getting away from the everyday is one of the best ways to heal. Sure, having a friend or family member along for the ride would be great, but if you have to go it alone, there are plenty of resources at your disposal to make it enjoyable. A trip alone is scary and thrilling and nerve-wracking, but that is what makes it so much more worth while. Because if you don't take the plunge, how will you ever move away from the pain and into the next chapter of your life?

Urban Playground

2011-05-08T21:08:00.000-05:00

On Friday, I had the opportunity to see a few short movies at the Architecture & Design Film Festival that visited Chicago. My friend and I saw a pack of four films all relating in some way to architecture and how it affects the environment around us, how it can help make the world better. While all of them were very interesting, it was the final film that really fascinated me. It was called "My Playground," and it followed the lives of Team JiYo, the Danish Parkour and freerunning team.

If you do not know what Parkour is, you are not alone. Many people are unfamiliar with it, but it is a worldwide phenomenon. The best way to describe it is getting from one place to another by moving around obstacles in an efficient way. Wikipedia defines it as:

a non-competitive, physical discipline of French origin in which participants run along a route, attempting to negotiate obstacles in the most efficient way possible, using only their bodies. Skills such as jumping, climbing, vaulting, rolling, swinging and wall scaling are employed. Parkour can be practiced anywhere, but areas dense with obstacles are preferable and it is most commonly practiced in urban areas.

Basically, it is a bunch of adults running around on the streets using anything and everything as their own personal playground.

The movie explores how the Parkour athletes interact with urban spaces and buildings in Copenhagen and around the world, and how their lifestyle is transforming the way architects and city officials see cities. Award winning Danish architect Bjarke Ingels was featured for his innovative structures, mainly The Mountain, which is a frequented place for team JiYo. In the film he was in the middle of constructing 8House, which is a residential complex that features a winding ramp connecting all levels. The concept was chosen so that a person, ideally, could ride a bike all the way up the building. Ingels tries to find a balance between playful and practical in all his structures, which is perfect for Parkour.

I found the whole thing pretty eye opening, mostly because these people look at the world in such a different way. While you and I see a basic city street, Parkour athletes see it as a playground, an obstacle course, an adventure. In all honesty, I think we can all learn from their life, even if we cannot do back flips off staircases or 360s from railings.

As someone from the film said, they get to where they are going just like everyone else, the path is just a little different.

If you want to see a teaser from the film, check it out below:
MTN - MY PLAYGROUND ON THE MOUNTAIN from BIG on Vimeo.

The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports

2011-05-06T16:07:00.000-05:00

If you are not sure what I am refering to, then you probably aren't a gambler.

Churchill Downs. Credit: Kentucky Tourism

The Kentucky Derby is set to take place tomorrow in Louisville at the famous Churchill Downs racetrack, where thousands of people will be gathered--dressed in their finest suits and gaudiest hats--to watch the 20-odd contestants race 1 1/4 miles for the $2.1 million prize.

It is a highly anticipated race for sports fans and bookies alike as people put both their hearts and their wallets on the table once the horses have been loaded into the starting gate. While I am not much of a horse-racing fan, and I am definitely not one to gamble, I still enjoy tuning in for the big event, mostly to observe the cultural aspect of it all.

This year marks the 137th running of the Derby, and the event continues to captivate audiences worldwide, not just because of the excitement of the race, but also the wonderful traditions that have become iconic over the decades. From the garland of roses and the Twin Spires to the Mint Juleps and Kentucky Oaks, the Derby has become a cherished part of our history. For those of you who are unaware of the details of this timeless celebration, allow me to elaborate.

Garland of roses. Credit: Kentucky Derby

The first race took place in 1875 in the city of Louisville, Kentucky, a place with a long history of horseracing that dates back to 1783. Though it isn't really clear why, the race became a sensation. The rose became a symbol of the event when it was presented to all the ladies that attended a fashionable derby party. The then president of Churchill Downs adopted it as the official race flower, and the rose garland is now synonymous with the celebration after it was presented to the winner in the 1896 running. In 1925, the race was dubbed "The Run of the Roses" and the garland that you see today has been used ever since 1932. Each year, 400 red roses are strung together on a green backing with the seal of the Commonwealth on one end the Twin Spires on the other. Each one also has a crown of roses, green fern and ribbon placed in the center.

The Twin Spires are a landmark in Kentucky. They were built in 1895 atop the racetrack complex and designed by Joseph Dominic Baldez who was recruited to sketch out the new grandstand. Though the spires were not included in the original plan, they were embraced as monuments by all.

As far as cuisine goes, the Kentucky Derby certainly serves up some interesting and classic dishes.

Mint Julep. Credit: Southerliving.com

I'll start with drinks, since the event is so quick, people need libations to keep them happy. The Mint Julep is the signature drink at Churchill Downs, and has been for almost a century. Early Times Distillery has become the name behind the drink, serving up its cocktail for the last 18 years. The company has served up nearly 120,000 drinks each year. The cocktail consists of simple syrup, fresh mint, Early Times Whisky, and crushed ice. If you can't make it to Louisville for one of these, they are sold at local retailers. Critics of this drink say it isn't a proper Julep because it does not contain Bourbon, so if you are looking for something a bit more intense, I suggest making your own or finding something at a local bar. A lesser known cocktail is the Oaks Lily, made with vodka, sweet and sour mix, cranberry juice and Triple Sec.

A local creation, Hot Brown is an open sandwich that is made with sliced turkey, crispy bacon, and buttered toast drenched in Mornay sauce--which is like bechamel (bay-shah-MEL) with cheese. It was invented by the chef at the Brown Hotel in the 1920s and has been a staple of the race ever since. Kentucky Burgoo can best be described as a stew, mostly because it has no known origin and there are countless ways to make it. Basically, its consists of a bunch of meat like mutton, beef, pork and chicken, an assortment of corn, potatoes, lima beans, tomatoes, and a range of spices like Worcestershire. Finally, the Kentucky Derby would not be complete without the Derby Pie. It was invented 50 years ago at Melrose Ince in Prospect, Kentucky. The crust is filled with semi-sweet chocolate and English walnuts and topped with whipped cream.

Derby hat. Credit: Boston.com

Apart from the symbolic racetrack, the delicious drinks and delectable food, the Kentucky Derby is known for one other thing: HATS! Every year people come dressed in their best dresses and top-quality suits, topping it all off with an ostentatious hat. There are no rules as to how big or small a hat is suppose to be, but there is certainly a stigma when it comes to wearing one--it's a must! Perhaps its Southern charm or a status symbol, but the fashionable hat is certainly a tradition in which everyone loves to revel.

For me, the Kentucky Derby showcases a culture that is completely different from the everyday. When people step onto the premises of Chruchill Downs, they are transported to another time, another world. It is a spectacle that can only be experienced once a year, and then it is gone, pushed to the background until the anticipation builds again next spring, when women can buy a new flashy hat, and men can stir up another minty treat.

Cherish the moment while you have it, because, after all, it is only two minutes from the moment the gates fly open to when the horses cross over the finish line.

Aqua: A Hawaiian Boutique Hotel Chain

2011-05-05T16:15:00.000-05:00

Once again my daily internet surfing has led me to another great travel find: Aqua Hotels & Resorts.

This boutique chain of hotels span across five of the Hawaiian islands, offering travelers a unique getaway in the tropical paradise. The chain has upscale, budget-friendly and remote properties, so no matter what people are looking for, they are sure to find a hotel that suits their needs.

Me, for instance, am a young travler on a tight budget, so I decided to check out Aqua's Lite Line, which features five options at a lower price. Pretty much all of them are located somewhere in Waikiki, so if you are looking for something less touristy, you will want to check out one of the chains more expensive hotels.

Aloha Surf & Spa. Credit: Aqua Resorts website

The Aqua Aloha Surf & Spa sits in a quiet neighborhood, but is still only five minutes from the excitement of the beach and Kuhio Avenue. This place is a surfer's paradise, with the lounge decked out with large screen televisions broadcasting surf classics and edgy decor that speaks to the free spirited traveler. Each room has internet, a flat screen TV, microwave, mini fridge and coffee maker. If you are lucky enough to snag a view room, you will get a lovely picture of the Ala Wai Golf Course with teh Koolau Mountain range in the background. Budget-conscious guests will also enjoy the complimentary Continental breakfast that includes fresh fruit, pastries and beverages. There is also a complimentary reception every Tuesday from 5-6 featuring the hotel's signature drink "The Wipeout."

The Aloha Surf & Spa was the one that most caught my attention, but the company has a few other budget hotels worth checking out: The Aqua Waikiki Pearl recently underwent a renovation to update its rooms and general layout; Maile Sky Court is a high-rise hotel at the western end of Waikiki; Park Shore Waikiki offers some of the best views of the beach and surrounding city; and Waikiki Wave Hotel &Resort has been named a top best-value hotel by Budget Travel magazine.

I didn't bother looking at Aqua's more upscale resorts--partly because I did not want to torture myself by looking at pictures of a place I could never afford. However, if you are lucky enough to have the funds to stay at a more expensive hotel, I suggest checking out their luxury boutiques, especially the ones that are a little further from the beach, nestled in the more secluded confines of the Hawaiian islands.

May has Arrived...

2011-05-03T13:55:00.000-05:00

...and I cannot wait til it ends!

May is here, which means we are that much closer to summer. To consistent warm weather--enough of this one 80-degree day followed by a week in the 40s. To rooftop bars and weekend barbecues. To beach volleyball games and warm evening strolls. Yes, summer is an exciting time, but we still have to get through May before we can really start to enjoy it. In fact, I usually consider Memorial Day weekend the official kick off of summer.

American Flag. credit:americanconsumernews.com

While my plans for that glorious three-day weekend are still pending, I do know that they will involve some form of grilling, plenty of drinks, and lots of friends. There is no better way to spend it really, except maybe a trip somewhere. (Come on, you honestly didn't see that one coming?)

So, where would you travel for Memorial Day? Of course, you could do something themed to go along with the holiday, like visiting Washington D.C. and doing a tour of all the war memorials. Or something a little more elaborate like gonig to Hawaii to see the site of the Pearl Harbor attacks. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, so a weekend to the Gettysburg area could be a good option. New York is a great choice, since it not only features a wonderful Memorial Day parade, but it also is the site of Fleet Week, where sailors and servicemen dock in the harbor and show their American pride by strutting around in uniform.

No matter where you choose to spend the holiday, you will be sure to find some kind of special event or celebration going on. If not, you can always throw your own party!

A Royal Affair

2011-04-29T12:45:00.000-05:00

The alarm went off at four-thirty this morning, and I did not bolt right up in my bed. No, in fact, it took me a good five minutes of self-loathing and stubborn debating in my head before I whipped the covers off and peeled myself out of bed. I quickly changed, splashed my face with water, came out to my living room and switched on NBC to watch the event that so demanded my early rising: the Royal Wedding.

Credit: Royalwedding.com

4:45 am: I caught the first few royal family members driving up to Westminster Abbey, including Queen Elizabeth as she stepped out of her car in a classic suit and a hat--because she's never without one. And then I saw Kate Middleton sneak into her car, and caught a glimpse of the top half of her dress, a long sleeve lace overlay with the sweetheart neckline. Her ivory silk tulle veil draped across her face with perfection, and her sparkling tiara was something to be envied by every bride-to-be, or young girl watching at home. As she stepped out of the queen's Rolls-Royce Phantom VI (yeah, I know cars), the full extent of her gown was revealed, and it did not disappoint. The dress, designed by Alexander McQueen creative director Sarah Burton, featured an ivory satin bodice and a low cut back, with lace to cover her bare skin. Its shape was extremely traditional, with a nine foot train, which was carried by her sister and maid of honor, Pippa. (I won't go into the details of her dress, but it was spectacular, too!)

As Kate clasped onto the arm of her father, Michael Middleton, I sensed that the nerves started to set in just a little. At one point, I swear I saw her stumble slightly, though that could have been the shoes she was wearing, or a bump in the carpet leading up to the doors of the church, but I'd like to think that it was a moment of weakness in an otherwise flawless ceremony.

Credit: Royalwedding.com

Kate walked down the aisle to the tune of The Introit, as well as the anthem I Was Glad, written by Sir Charles Hubert Hastings Parry (wow that's a lot of names). It took Kate three and a half minutes to walk down the aisle to William. (I didn't actually time it myself, I just read that in an article.) The couple smiled brightly at one another as they stood hand in hand listening to the priest give his opening prayer. They wasted no time in getting to the vows and the ring exchange. And as the couple committed their lives to one another, and consented to be husband and wife, I could hear cheers from the crowds waiting outside. Both Kate and William held back tears as they spoke those sentimental words, and I have a feeling thousands of others cried tears of joy for them.

After the vows, there was no kiss--that was saved for later--and the service continued. Catherine (which is what she is requesting people call her now) sat next to William off to the side of the altar, as her brother, James, stepped up to give a reading from Romans 12:

I APPEAL to you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God - what is good and acceptable and perfect. Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honour. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.

I was not planning to include the whole reading, but I thought it was so fitting for the occassion--which is obviously why they chose it--and it also spoke to me and how I should act in my own life. Anyway, I digress...

At this point, it was a little after five thirty in the morning and I was starting to get tired again after my initial excitement began to wear off. But then the Right Reverend and the Right Honorable Dr Richard Chartres stood up to give his address and he started with "Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire." Those immortal words were spoken by Saint Catherine of Siena, whose memory is honored on this day, too. It was such a powerful way to begin, and he had me hooked from that moment on. This man is a scholar, a well-spoken, intelligent and insightful man, and I personally would love for him to give me an address as elegantly delivered as this one. I regret that I had my hands full with other tasks and was unable to jot down everything he said, but I was able to catch a few things:

In a sense every wedding is a royal wedding with the bride and the groom as king and queen of creation, making a new life together so that life can flow through them into the future.

A spiritual life grows as love finds its centre beyond ourselves. Faithful and committed relationships offer a door into the mystery of spiritual life in which we discover this; the more we give of self, the richer we become in soul; the more we go beyond ourselves in love, the more we become our true selves and our spiritual beauty is more fully revealed. In marriage we are seeking to bring one another into fuller life.

Marriage should transform, as husband and wife make one another their work of art. It is possible to transform as long as we do not harbour ambitions to reform our partner. There must be no coercion if the Spirit is to flow; each must give the other space and freedom.

We are all incomplete: we all need the love which is secure, rather than oppressive, we need mutual forgiveness, to thrive.

When the service was over, William and Catherine made their way back down the aisle and stood in the entryway of the church to greet the world as a newly wedded couple. Of course, now they will not just be known as William and Catherine--though I plan to call them that. They were given a slew of new titles, the first being the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, with dukedom as the highest rank in the British peerage. They will also be called Earl and Countess of Strathearn and Baron and Baroness Carrickfergus--the latter makes me giggle just a little.

The Kiss! Credit: ABC News

The couple climbed into an old horse-drawn carriage, and rode off back down the same route they took to get to the church. The whole family followed behind as they made their way to Buckingham Palace. Between their arrival there and their appearance on the balcony out front, I had to tear myself away from the television quickly to get ready for work--because some of us still have to go to the office. Luckily, I made it out of the shower and into the living room in time to witness William and Catherine's first kiss. It was a bit lackluster, to say the least, lasting a mere two seconds. I actually missed it, because I was looking down at the delicious Ann Sather's cinnamon roll that I ate for the occasion. Thank God for DVR. Though I was disappointed in the kiss, they made up for it by giving the crowd a second, much longer smooch, and then I was satisfied.

I am not sure what the rest of the day holds for the royal couple, but sources have said they will have an official reception with the Queen and her subjects in the afternoon, followed by their own personal ceremony this evening. The event tonight will be a smaller, more intimate affair, with about 300 guests and all the traditional wedding happenings, including the best man's speech and the first dance.

While I was forced to get up very early this morning, it was nice to get lost in a fairytale world for a few hours. It was like a dream watching Catherine shine in her gorgeous wedding gown as she declared her love for William for all the world to see. This is truly a special event, and one I will not soon forget.

A Room Fit for a Princess

2011-04-28T16:52:00.001-05:00

As many of you know, tomorrow is the day of the royal wedding, when Prince William will marry Kate Middleton in front of 2,000 guests and nearly one billion viewers around the world. Kate will ride down a long parade route, waving at spectators that have been camping out for days just to get a glimpse of her white-gloved hand. She will then step out in front of Westminster Abbey where thousands of paparrazi will flash pictures of the gorgeous bride in her flowing wedding gown designed by--well, we don't know yet. Once she walks through the doors, she will float down the aisle towards her prince, who she will promise to love and cherish until death parts them.

Needless to say, Kate's under a lot of pressure.

So how do you prepare for such a large spectacle as this? Stay in a fabulous hotel, of course!

Kate will be spending her last night as a single lady in the five-star luxury Goring Hotel, located just around the corner from Buckingham Palace. The hotel opened in 1910 and is still owned by the family of the founder. It was credited as one of the first hotels in the world to offer a private bathroom for each room. And since it is so close to the palace, it has had the privilege of hosting a number of royal celebrities, including Queen Mary and Queen Mother Elizabeth, who both enjoyed tea at the Goring.

Kate and her family have taken over the hotel, with the recently redecorated five-room suite overlooking the garden reserved specifically for the bride. Her room comes with a four-poster bed, silk wallpaper and a waterproof flatscreen in the bathroom. While Kate might be a little too nervous to eat anything before the ceremony, I hope her family takes advantage of the first-class chef the hotel has on staff. The kitchen is known for its Lobster Thermidor omelets--yum!

The Goring defines itself as the quintessential British hotel. Each room is individually designed in a range of color palettes. Most rooms overlook the historic Victoria Square and Beeston Place, while a select few--including Kate's--overlook the garden. The bathrooms are stocked with Egyptian cotton bath sheets and various toiletries from English perfumer, Molton Brown. The hotel provides bathrobes and slippers, 24-hour room service, internet and on-demand movies. As far as other amenities, the Bar features a verandah that looks out over the gardens. It offers the finest wines, deep tea blends and wonderful treats to nibble on. The food at the Dining Room is prepared with fresh, local ingredients, and each dish is a tribute to English heritage and culture. They serve everything from Eggs Drumkilbo and Gulls Eggs to Cornish Sardines with Sea Sandwort and the best oysters on earth. (Their words, not mine.)

It certainly sounds like a fairytale, but then again, Kate will soon be spending her evenings in a palace, so this is a nice preview of what she will have the rest of her life.

Road Trippin Contest

2011-04-28T13:31:00.000-05:00

In my flurry of newsgathering stories, I stumbled upon this one about a great contest from Rand McNally. (You know, the guys that make those spiral bound books with all the maps in them, what are those old-fashioned things called again? Oh yeah, atlases.) Anyway, they are putting on an event called the Best of the Road contest, and you can go to their website and nominate your favorite small towns across the country. They can fit into any of five categories--most beautiful, most patriotic, friendliest, most fun and best for food. Along with that, you can submit your favorite raodside attractions, like the best mountain scene or best pizza joint.

If your nominated city or attraction is selected as a top entrant, it gets a permanent spot on Rand McNally's new travel site and a place in its 2013 Road Atlas. You will also see it appear on USA Today's Travel website, since they are collaborating with the company on the contest.

Now, I know what you are thinking, how can I possibly pick my favorite town? There are so many great ones to choose from, I honestly cannot decide. Obviously, I would love to pick my hometown of Denver, but I don't think you can really classify that as a small town. My college town of Milwaukee would be another great pick, but, again, not so tiny. I certainly can't nominate Chicago. So which town to pick? This could take some time. Luckily, I have until May 23 to submit my vote. And even if I can't possibly decide on a destination before then, I can always enter the other portion of the contest. (That's right, there's more.)

Rand McNally and USA Today will select five teams to go on a three-week cross country road trip to hit the top 20 towns nominated in each category, as well as all the attractions along the way. The trip starts on June 23 and goes until July 15. Each team will visit the four towns in their assigned category, and fans can follow their progress online through Facebook and Twitter. All teams will end their trip in Los Angeles, where the winners will receive $10,000. (Now there's a trip, and a prize, that is totally up my alley.)

So, who wants to be part of my team?

A Thirst for Jamaica

2011-04-27T21:49:00.000-05:00

Perhaps it was the exotic photo shoot plastered on the pages of Conde Naste Traveler magazine, or the tantalizingly juicy jerk tilapia and baked plantains at local restaurant, Ja' Grill, or possibly the conversation among my engaged friends about the best exotic place to go for their honeymoon. Whatever it was that sparked it, I have not been able to get Jamaica out of my head.

An island paradise that is a true jewel of the Caribbean, Jamaica is not only known for its sand-swept beaches, lush jungles and balmy weather, but also for its rich culture and numerous ties to the art and music world. Ian Fleming, the James Bond writer, truly fell in love with Jamaica back in the 50s and 60s, capturing the islands character in his novels, most of which he wrote while staying there. He even bought land to build his own private oasis there, called GoldenEye. Singer and song writer Bob Marley called Jamaica home before bringing his iconic voice and laid-back melody to the states in the 70s. He became a symbol for the cool calmness and peace associated with the island. Today artists, writers, singers, actors and regular Joes like you and me, visit Jamaica to find out just what makes it so bashy. (local lingo I'll get into later.)

To really appreciate the country, let me provide a little background. The first inhabitants of the island were the Tainos, Arawak-speaking people believed to have come from somewhere in South America. These people were there to greet Christopher Columbus when he first arrived in Jamaica, which the Tainos referred to as "Xaymaca." The Spanish landing marked the beginning of 500 years of European occupation. When the British took over the island from the Spanish, their slaves were let lose and became known as Maroons who continually fought the new occupants. In fact, they still exist on the island today. The island became a major producer of sugar, and the large plantations thrived for many years. However, once slaves were emancipated in 1838, the sugar production suffered, and the island turned to other exports like bananas and coffee for income. Jamaica experienced much political strife as the crown colony system was implemented and then declined, causing civil unrest, ushering in the trade union movement. Eventually, Jamaica claimed independence from Britain and established its own diverse nation.

Jamaica is the largest English speaking island in the Caribbean, running 156 miles long and between 22 and 51 miles in width. It is located 90 miles south of Cuba and 600 miles south of Miami. It is divided into three counties--Cornwall, Middlesex and Surrey--which are further divided into 14 parishes. Kingston is the smallest parish, but is also the country's capital. The natural landscape is relatively mountainous, with much of the land rising above 1,000 feet. There are over 120 rivers that flow through the island, as well as numerous mineral baths that have been tapped by resorts and spas for their therapeutic benefits.

The great thing about Jamaica is that there is something for every kind of traveler, from crazy adventure trips and off-the-beaten-path options to relaxing beach stays and romantic hideaways. History buffs will appreciate the museums and monuments scattered throughout the cities, and foodies can indulge on delectable local cuisine.

Most trips to Jamaica tend to start in the capital of Kingston, a robust, thriving city full of culture, history and fun. With its historical and cultural sites, exciting social scenes, world-class dining spots and recreational activities, it is almost impossible to know where to start. I suggest beginning in downtown Kingston, where you will most certainly stumble upon Parade, the very center of the city. Parade is basically a town square that has become well known as a shopping mecca. The Coronation Market is the biggest shopping area on the island and probably the most chaotic, but well worth fighting the crowds. Flanked on the other sides of Parade are the Ward Theater, the most well-known performing arts venue in Jamaica; Coke Methodist Church, the first Methodist chapel on the island; and the Kingston Parish Church, a major landmark famous for its intricate graveyard and bell tower.

Kingston has numerous other attractions to visit, I could not possibly name them all. But I do have a quick list of suggestions: Linstead is a small inland area with bustling fresh produce markets; Morant Bay is one of the most historic locales in Jamaica due to the Moran Bayt Rebellion of 1865; Spanish Town acted as the former capital of Jamaica and showcases some of the most authentic 18th- and 19th-century architecture; and Devon House Heritage Site, which houses thousands of antiques, as well as some of the best places to get local fare.


GoldenEye. LuxuryTravelMagazine.com

Across the island in Montego Bay is a whole other world of Jamaica. Granted, you will still find historic buildings and bustling city centers. But Montego Bay brings its own specialties to the table. In the best sense, Montego Bay is a resort town, so there is a major emphasis put on its white sand beaches and clear blue water. But away from the hotels and touristy areas, you can find some true gems. The Rose Hall Great House is the old home of Jamaica's white witch, Annie Palmer, who practiced voodoo and supposedly killed her three husbands through magical methods. You can tour the old house, check out the dungeon and even see where her ex-husbands are buried. In the heart of the city is Sam Sharpe Square, named for the Baptist Deacon who fought against the confines of slavery. The square is a tribute to his mission with statues depicting slaves listening to his inspirational words.

Just outside Montego Bay is Croydan in the Mountains, a picturesque plantation that produces coffee beans and pineapple. You can take part in a three-hour tour of the facility, where you can get a look at how the products are cultivated, and take in the amazing views of the sloping mountains. After the tour, you can sample the fresh fruit and rich coffee from the plantation.

Some more secluded areas of the islands can be found deep in the Blue Mountains, or along less developed stretches of the coast, for instance around Negril or Oracabessa. If you are a fan of James Bond, you have to visit GoldenEye on the island's north coast. Ian Fleming's old house is still there, though now it has been transformed into a hotel, which features the original three-bedroom house, and nine new beach cottages and two pools. Strawberry Hill is an old coffee plantation tucked away in the Blue Mountains above Kingston. It is also now a hotel, and provides a nice escape from the hot beach resorts that populate the major cities.

Ackee and Saltfish. Wikipedia.

As far as food goes, Jamaica has a few staples that you will certainly need to try if you visit. The national dish is ackee and saltfish, a meal of salt cod boiled with ackee fruit, onions, peppers, tomatoes and other spices. It is usually served at breakfast along side breadfruit, dumpling, hard dough bread, fried plantains or boiled green bananas. For lunch, you must try the jerk chicken. As for what variety or level of spice you try, that is up to you. If you want to try more than one, there is a jerk chicken trail that runs all around the island where you can taste as many types as your heart desires.

Obviously, I would love to keep writing about this incredible island, but there is just way too much to cover and I have neither the room nor the time to talk about it all. Clearly, you will just have to go discover Jamaica for yourself. If you cannot manage to scrounge up the vacation time or the money to go, why not get a taste at a local restaurant. There are a number of places that offer the island's famous dishes. If you cannot seem to find one, I would say your best bet is to sip some Jamaican Rum or a Red Stripe, sit back and relax, mon.

Travel Deals Abound Amid Economic Crises

2011-04-22T15:52:00.000-05:00

The financial crisis of 2008 hit everyone, but some countries were slammed harder than others. And while worldwide economic recovery is certainly desired, there are some benefits to the financial woes for travelers looking for a sweet deal.

If you thought you could never afford a Greece trip, think again. Hotels.com Hotel Price Index says that the average nightly rate in Athens dropped 10% in 2010, to $132. And it is still falling. What about a week-long trip to the Emerald Isle? Totally doable. A seven-day package--with flight, hotel and car rental--costs $800 per person, down 11% from 2008.

If these prices do not intrigue you--and I cannot imagine why they wouldn't--just think about the good you will be doing by booking a trip to some of these locations. They need tourist dollars as they try to pay back loans and right their economies. International tourism was up across the map last year, but Europe did not rebound as well. According to travel experts, they are desperate to get tourists, more so than usual, hence the super awesome deals.

Greece has experienced a lot of economic damage over the last couple years. Tourism revenue fell by 9%--to put that into perspective, $75.4 billion--and now the government is trying to draw people back. It has waived the landing, takeoff and stop-over fees usually added to airfares and reduced hotel tax from 11% to 6.5%, which can add up to $100 or more. Experts say new Greece deals appear every week. There is an eight-night mainland package from $1,099 per person, including airfare, hotel stays in Athens and other cities, and transportation between cities.

Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik. SmartMoney.com

Iceland started suffering even before the crisis hit in 2008. In 2006, inflation started pushing prices up and out of tourists' range. When the economy collapsed, Iceland's three major banks went down with it. It is still struggling to pay back loans, and needs tourists more than ever. Icelandair offers a stopover in the country on the way to Europe for no extra charge, and even offers a two-night package with airfare, hotel and a one-day tour from $599 per person. The average hotel rate in 2010 was $99, down 26% from 2008. However, tourists may be put off by the high exchange rate and expensive cities.

While the luck may not be with the Irish right now, you will certainly feel blessed when you check out some of the travel deals available to the country. Ireland economy continues to struggle despite aid from the European Union. Tourism is probably one area that can bring in the most cash, especially from the U.S. market. The most appealing deals are packages that bring tourists to the Irish countryside, so trips to major cities will still cost a pretty penny. Overall, it is one of the most affordable places you can go to right now. Average hotel prices are $117 per night, making it the most affordable destination in Western Europe. A six-night package from Dooley Vacations features stays at five different castles, airfare and rental car starting at $799 per person. There are plenty of other similar tours you can choose from, some even cheaper.

Galway, Ireland

Personally, I was not a fan of Portugal when I visited last summer, but it is one of the countries that needs tourism revenue and does have some pretty reasonable hotel and travel package prices. To give it the benefit of the doubt, I only spent the equivalent of about 36 hours there, so I did not give it much of a chance. Still, it would probably take more than a couple cheap hotel rates to get me back over. But, Lisbon does have some of the best rates for five-star rooms, averaging $169 per night. While there are a few tours being offered throughout the country, travel experts say that many companies do not feature Portugal on tours mostly because it is not the most popular place people think of for a vacation. Even so, there are some packages available, like one to the Algarve for around $550 per person--but not that airfare is not included.

Of these four countries, I would probably choose to visit Iceland--mostly because it is the one place I've never been--although Greece is definitely appealing. In all honesty, I wish Croatia was worse off economically, because that has been on my list of vacation spots for a very long time, and finding a cheap package there would be like striking gold.

I realize that since these countries are struggling financially, many of you may be, too. But I encourage anyone looking to take a spring or summer trip to research deals for these destinations, as well as others, because you may just find something spectacular.

National Parks Free for a Week!

2011-04-14T13:26:00.000-05:00

I'm definitely a fan of National Parks, but the ticket prices? Not so much. So imagine my elation when I found out about an event being held by the National Park Service that is granting access for a week to almost 400 sites for free!

National Park Week promotion. Credit: National Park Service

"Healthy Parks, Healthy People" is the name of the event, a theme that hints at the fact that people in the US need to move away from the television or computer screen, put down the smartphone, and get back to nature. (It probably also alludes to the fact that many people are overweight or obese, and walking around a National park is a great way to get some much needed exercise.)

National Park Week is all about promoting parks as a resource for building health and wellness in America. So from April 16-24, people can visit hundreds of parks for free, as well as particiapte in special events like ranger-led hikes, kayaking trips, volunteer opportunities, and much more. It's also a great way to celebrate Earth Day--April 22--and take part in park clean-ups or learn about ways to preserve the earth.

So if you live near a National park--or plan on visiting one--why not take advantage of the fact that you can get in free of charge? Not only does it allow you to see the breathtaking landscapes of our country, but it also gives you the chance to be active and adventurous.

For me, it's an opportunity to learn about the National Parks located near me, because, honestly, I do not even know if there are any.

But the Cherry Blossoms will Still Bloom

2011-04-08T15:14:00.000-05:00

America is in the midst of a potential government shutdown, and while most of us will be able to go on living our lives, many will be seriously affected by this if it should happen. Those in Washington D.C. will be hit the hardest, especially in the tourism industry.

In case you were not aware, if a government shutdown were to happen, a number of places will be forced to close, too. These include:

National Parks
Smithsonian Museums
The National Zoo
Public Libraries
DC Trash collection will be suspended
DC Department of Motor Vehicles
Street sweeping and pothole services will stop
Most federal government offices
IRS paper claims filings will not be processed/audits will be suspended

There are many other facilities that will have to close, and many people will not receive pay or get their tax redunds.

Bottom line....it's not a good thing.

Cherry Blossoms. Credit: USA Today

However, I did receive some good news today despite all the horrible news stories I have been reading: The Cherry Blossom Parade in DC will be held. Many--including myself--feared that the event would be canceled since it is run by the National Park Service, and part of the parade runs along Constitution Avenue, which is also under their jurisdiction. Luckily, festival orginizers have a plan just in case their is a shutdown. The parade route will be altered to avoid the area in Park Service territory.

The festival draws about 100,000 spectators during one of the busiest times for tourism in the city, so of course organizers were going to take every possible step to make sure it would not be cancelled. Even with many museums, monuments and attractions closed over the weekend with a shutdonw, the local tourism bureau is encouraging people to still visit. Some of the smaller, private museums will still be operating, and even offering discounts on admission.

Plus, there are numerous restaurants around the city preparing "shutdown deals," offering everything from discounted meals, free cups of coffee and free burgers. Clearly, businesses are trying to make the best of the situation.

Because even if our government cannot figure out a way to function, we can still see the cherry trees blossom.

What's Your Travel Personality?

2011-04-06T07:20:00.001-05:00

If someone were to ask me this, I am not entirely sure how I would answer, mostly because I think my travel personality is a combination of many different attributes. I am definitely a planner, but I also appreciate veering off the beaten path every once and a while and exploring new places. I am cautious most the time, but I have been known to take some risks when traveling. In all honesty, my travel personality is a mystery to me. And that is exactly what American Express is banking on.

American Express launched a new travel website called NEXTPEDITION, which analyzes your personality by asking a series of travel questions. Once you discover what you are, the company encourages you to speak with a travel expert to find out what kind of trip you would be interested in and how much you budget for your vacations. Then, AmEx will deliver a "mystery" trip with details about the destination to be revealed as the departure date approaches. You will get a smartphone-like device that will give you details about the trip every week. This concept sounds a bit familiar, doesn't it? For those who read my blog on a regular basis, you may recall a post I wrote about mystery vacations. The big difference is the personality aspect.

So, in an effort to learn more about the website--and discover my own travel personality--I decided to take the quiz. Some questions were pretty easy to answer, like what I would seek out if I was in Hong Kong (of course, real dim sum) or what did I just spend way too much money on (a vintage bottle of wine) or what I would do if the zombie apocalypse was real (grab a bat and start swinging). After answering all 15 questions, the quiz provided me with three signs, and a percentage as to how much I fit with that personality. I got Poshaholic, Detourist and Tasteblazer. You can select anyone that you think works the best for you, and I figured I was somewhere between Detourist and Tasteblazer, so I opted for the former. I was then given the option to share my travel sign on Facebook and speak with a representative to get my trip started. I already have trips planned this year, and do not have the funds to plan another one, but there is potential for me to use this feature in the future.

So even if you are not planning a trip, I recommend taking the quiz, if not for the results, then certainly for the questions. Some of them are pretty interesting. In the end though, the results may surprise you, and if nothing else, you may get some ideas as to what kind of vacation you want to take in the future.

VOTE FOR ME!!

2011-04-04T09:06:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone!! I'm a finalist in the HomeAway BlogAway Contest!! So please vote for me today!! Head on over to Facebook, go to the HomeAway page and "like" it. The link below is for the votoing thread, so just comment and put in my name!! There is no limit as the amount of times you can vote, so keep voting!

Thread for voting

Thanks for your support!!!

Exploring Neighborhoods

2011-04-03T20:49:00.000-05:00

It was one of the first nice days in a very long time, so I took the opportunity to walk instead of drive to run my errands. With any luck, the weather is only going to get nicer, which means more chances to go wandering around the city. The beauty of Chicago is its diversity, and there are 77 distinct neighborhoods each of which has a unique history and tradition. The best way to see these neighborhoods is to explore them on foot. Of course, it's difficult to know where to begin, especially with so many places to see. That's where Chicago Neighborhood Tours comes in.

Each tour is designed to allow visitors--and even locals--to experience different areas of the city that they may not have thought to see. Among the most popular tours is Chicago's Magnificent Churches, which visits some of the city's amazing houses of worship. The locations vary from tour to tour, but each church has its own intricacies, history and customs. The Taste of the Neighborhoods is another popular tour, which takes guests on a delectable journey to some of the city's best eateries. Tours include two restaurants and a dessert stop, and destinations change every two months. Other tours this year include Uptown & Argyle Street, Wicker Park & Ukrainian Village, and Columbus Park & Garfield Park. All tours go by motor coach and foot, and last anywhere from two to four hours. Prices and dates of each tour vary.

While I am opposed to paying to do something I could probably do on my own, I would consider doing one of these tours mostly because the guide will provide more information and background about places that I would not learn otherwise. When you go exploring by yourself, you can certainly discover a lot, but having someone who is familiar with the area allows you to connect on a deeper level. I think the weather is still too iffy to schedule a tour this month, but maybe once summer rolls around I can participate in one. Now I just have to figure out which one I want to go on, there are way too many great choices.

Extra Fees Will Deter Traveling on Some Airlines

2011-03-31T07:44:00.002-05:00

I read an article about Spirit Airlines adding new luggage fees, which increased the amount passengers had to pay for checked and carry-on baggage. That's right, carry-on bags, too. Spirit is the first airline to implement such fees on luggage that people stow in the overhead bins, and I am hoping it is the only one that does it. The airline already has set fees it charges for checking bags, but the new regulations are bumping that number up slightly. Under the new fees, passengers who wait to pay for their bags within 24 hours of flying will be charged an extra $5 to pay online and $10 over the phone. Those who pay at least 24 hours in advance receive the "Early Bird Discount," which means they have to pay the original fee--not much of a special if you ask me.

When I read these stories about airlines hiking fees for the smallest things, I cannot help but wonder if any sane person would continue to fly with them. I have never flown on Spirit Airlines, and I can tell you confidently, I never will. I mean, it is bad enough that every other airline--except Southwest--is charging for checking bags, but to have the audacity to charge a fee for carry-ons is beyond absurd. To play devil's advocate--which I hate to do--the additional fee may prevent people from carrying on large pieces of baggage and taking up all the room in the overhead bins. If they are charged a fee no matter what, they may just opt to check the bag, leaving more space. Still, I fail to see how charging this fee is going to help, because even though that extra money may help to compensate rising gas and commodity costs, it could force people to look elsewhere for flights.

It's move like this one that make me angry with the travel industry, because it has already suffered so much and it pains me to see it continue to struggle. I long for the days when traveling was fun, exciting and almost carefree. You arrived at the airport, checked in your luggage, breezed through quick security lines without taking off your shoes, arrived at your gate, boarded the plane knowing you would have room to store all your personal items, sat down in a roomy seat and waited for your complimentary drink and bag of pretzels. Now, check-ins are bombarded with angry fliers trying to check as few bags as possible or lighten the ones that are too heavy, security lines are epically long and frustrating, boarding is a rat race to get to your seat first and snag precious overhead bin space, seats are cramped, and while that drink option is still there, the pretzels are long gone.

It's a sad world we live in when airlines are so scrapped for money that they have to take away the free pretzels.

A No-Kid Section

2011-03-29T10:26:00.000-05:00

I am sure that title will put many of you off, but hear me out before you click away to another screen.

How many times have you been sitting on an airplane, trying to fall asleep after a long business trip or vacation when suddenly the back of your seat is forcefully kicked by a five-year-old who needs to go to the bathroom or has to have a toy? How many people have experienced a flight where a baby screamed and cried the entire time? I know I have, and it can be infuriating. I have nothing against children, but there are definitely times where I wish they were not around, and on a plane is one of them. So when I read an article about possibly implementing separate seating that designates certain areas for children, I thought it sounded like a decent idea.

Child screaming on plane. www.nydailynews.com

According to polls from both Skyscanner, a travel search site, and Britain's Business Travel & Meetings Show, a majority of travelers want sections set aside for families or cabins that are for adults only. Some passengers believe there should be designated areas for taller, heavier or disabled passengers. While some of these requests may seem a bit outlandish, when it comes down to it, it's all about being comfortable.

Traveling today is already stressful and hectic, and the amount of room one gets on a plane is cramped due to airlines trying to boost capacity. Add an unruly child or larger seat-mate to the mix, and you are in for a very unpleasant trip. Think about the extra fees people are paying to get a little more comfort: extra legroom, a seat that reclines further, even seating that lets you cuddle with your travel buddy. It is possible that people would pay to not sit next to a child.

I even think families could benefit from the arrangement. I have seen more than one mother or father apologize to people because of their child's noise level or inability to sit still, it can be embarrassing. If families had their own space, their kids could be free to make a little extra noise or move around without bothering others.

Once again, I would like to emphasize that this idea is not about not liking children, but rather about finding a way to coexist in close quarters, possibly making everyone's trip a little more enjoyable. But it is just a thought, and people are free to disagree with it.

A Royal Vacation

2011-03-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

In a little over a month, the world will turn its eyes to London and the much anticipated nuptials that will take place between Prince William and Kate Middleton. As for me, I have every intention of tuning in on April 29 to watch every second of the Royal Wedding, gazing in awe and wonder as Kate steps out in front of Westminster Abbey in her wedding gown, preparing to walk down the aisle to meet her prince. It almost sounds like a fairy tale; a fairy tale I would love to witness in person. While I know I would not be able to make it into the church for the ceremony, I would enjoy seeing the streets of London transform into an elegant processional for the future princess as she rides through the city. As someone who adores London, I would love to capture how the city changes from its bustling, fast-paced nature into an entranced ocean of locals and guests all connected by one event. I think the energy and excitement of the city during the royal wedding will be epic, and I would be honored to write about that experience.

Making Summer Travel Plans

2011-03-27T15:09:00.000-05:00

The thaw of winter is still in effect, with little promise for a warm up any time soon, and yet I am already preparing myself for summer. This past week was packed with much freelance writing and travel planning, so I apologize for my absence. The good news is that I have officially booked two vacations this summer: one week-long trip with a few friends to Myrtle Beach where we'll be staying in a nice, three bedroom house right near the beach; and a Fourth of July weekend trip to Boston to visit my best friend.

Myrtle Beach. www.playle.com

I always get excited for summer trips far in advance, and I find myself planning daily excursions, restaurant options, and recreational activities months before I actually need to. But half the fun of summer vacation is preparing for it, researching the area, learning about the best places to visit, the signature dish I just have to try, and all the exciting things I'll get to do. I even go as far as planning my outfits--but that's mostly to help myself pack more efficiently.

I have never been to Myrtle Beach, and it has been over a decade since I have been back to South Carolina. (My family used to vacation in Hilton Head every year during spring break.) Needless to say, I am extremely excited to go on this trip. Not only is it a brand new place to explore, but it is an opportunity to relax and spend time with my good friends from Milwaukee who I do not get to see on a regular basis. Plus, it will be a nice break from everything going on in my life--work, work and more work. My week in Myrtle Beach will be a welcome escape from it all, a chance to hit the refresh button.

While I have visited Boston once before, it was during the cold month of October, and the weather was not always the best. However, it was a real treat to see the leaves changing in Boston Common, certainly an experience I can check off my bucket list. What really excites me about this trip, apart from seeing me best friend, is that I will be celebrating our nation's birthday in one of the oldest cities in the country, the place where the revolution began, where our freedom was fought and won. I must admit I'm a bit of a history nerd, and I love hearing epic stories and interesting facts about landmarks, and let's face it, Boston is rife with them.

As of right now, those are the only two vacations planned for the summer. And while I would love to travel more, I feel those two trips are sufficient enough. One long relaxing week on the beach, and one quick weekend jam packed with barbecues, fireworks and loads of history. Sounds perfect to me.

I will keep you posted on whether any more trips are in the works. And expect exciting blogs about my summer trips when I return.

Where Will You Retire?

2011-03-16T18:47:00.000-05:00

The thought of retirement is far in the future for me, considering I have only just entered the workforce and have not even reached a quarter of a century in age. However, my parents are very close to that stage in their life, and knowing they will have the freedom to go wherever and do whatever makes me a little jealous. Then I read an article saying that more and more Americans are retiring abroad, and it made me wonder if my folks would ever make the move.

They have talked about buying a villa in Tuscany and living out the rest of their days sipping wine and speaking Italian. To no one's amazement, I would be absolutely ecstatic if they did, but I am not so sure that plan will pan out. They still have so many responsibilities here in the states and a lot to handle after retirement. I am not so sure they could leave it all behind. However, many retirees have packed their bags to spend their golden years overseas. There is not an exact number, but it is estimated that nearly half a million American seniors have moved abroad to retire. According to the Social Security Administration, Americans receiving benefits overseas has jumped 32 percent since 2002. And retirees seem to have no common destination. In fact, they have spanned the global, venturing everywhere from Caribbean islands to the French countryside, from the jungles of Panama to the gated communities in Thailand or Malaysia.

This trend has bolstered an entire industry that makes its profit off selling the good life overseas. The retire-abroad business includes everything from real estate agents, investment advisers and transition specialists, all trying to attract the retired demographic to various shores around the world. Companies like International Living and Escape Artist have magazines and websites that promote good property deals and give advice on how to make the move.

It is understandable why so many people choose to retire outside of the United States, especially in a down economy. The cost of living is much more appealing, and, let's face it, the environment and landscape of many locations far exceeds what anyone could find in America. If nothing else, it certainly stirs up a sense of adventure that many retirement-age folks may have subdued during all their years in the work force.

I already know that when I retire, it will be in Italy, on a lovely vineyard in Tuscany. I will spend my days reading, writing, exploring the country, cooking, shopping and drinking wine. It is my ideal golden years scenario. So where will you retire?

Forging a Wine Trail

2011-03-15T08:30:00.000-05:00

Wine tasting in Napa and Sonoma Valley has become somewhat of a cliche, not because everyone does it, but because of how they do it. Drive to a vineyard, taste any number of reds or whites, contemplate why they taste different, then jump back in the car, head to another vineyard, and repeat. It has become monotonous, and potentially dangerous depending on how much you actually drink. I have never gone wine tasting in Northern California--though I am dying to go--but I read an interesting story about a guy who decided to switch things up on his wine tasting experience, exploring each vineyard by foot.

Daniel Duane found that walking tours are much more popular in Europe, and he cannot see why. "There is no more meaningful way to connect with a place than by exploring it, literally, one step at a time," said Duane. So he set out to forge a new trail through Sonoma County, with a focus on its southeast corner. He initially wanted to explore Napa, but found it was not the ideal setting for walking. In Sonoma, near the base of the Carneros Hills, there are quiet lanes, bike paths and footpaths. Also, Sonoma's diverse landscape and geographic features made for a few more surprises in the wine selection. It is known for producing great chardonnays and pinot noirs, but it also can throw a few curveballs.

Duane made Les Petites Maisons, small rental cottages operated by a store called Sonoma's Best, his base for the trip due to its central location.

Since there are no designated walking routes between wineries, Duane had to create his own. In the days leading up to his trip, he spent hours looking over trail maps and satellite images from Google. In the end, he came up with two walking tours that never required him to walk further than 30 minutes between each stop.

The first stop was Ravenswood Winery, where he received a glass of gewürztraminer upon arrival. (This is learned is a white wine grape that produces off-dry wines with flowery and passion fruit aromas, and is one of the few wines that goes well with Asian cuisine.) After a few other samples, Duane headed over to Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery, which took a little bit of backtracking and extra walking. This vineyard is one of the oldest in the United States, and was founded back in 1904. To Duane's disappointment--and mine,-- the area outside the cobblestone building was packed with tour buses, filled with all those tourists who decided to wine taste the typical way. After ordering a seven-wine sample, Duane headed down the Sonoma Bike Path, which conveniently ran past the winery. Along the route, he stumbled upon an organic farm called The Patch, a quaint treasure easily missed when driving in a car.

Duane's second day started at Buena Vista Carneros Winery, the first winery built west of the Mississippi. There he sampled a "silky" pinot noir and what he claims to be the best chardonnay of the whole trip. Since he was walking, he was able to take a small footpath--which someone at Les Petites Maisons had told him about--to his next destination, Bartholomew Park Winery. The path ran through a hidden garden , leading him through lawns with picnic tables and eventually to the door of the vineyard. As he sipped the winery's notable cabernet sauvignons, the owner told him all about the trails that surrounded the property. After departing his last winery, he found an old railway easement that weaved through tall pine trees to lead him right back to his cottage. A perfect little secret, just waiting to be found.

A walk through wine country can clearly yield tremendous benefits, including stumbling upon places one would have missed otherwise. I find it remarkable how much his tale of exploring Sonoma by foot is similar to wine tasting itself. We come across something, take a sip, and discover a wonderful array of flavors, aromas and textures. Sometimes it can be comforting, sometimes surprising, but it's always an adventure.

Check in at Your Hotel at the Airport

2011-03-13T18:13:00.000-05:00

Wouldn't it be nice to avoid the check-in line at the hotel? Wouldn't it be nice to avoid the baggage claim at the airport? Wouldn't it be nice to head straight to your room when you arrive where your bags are already waiting for you? Sounds like a dream, right? Well, one new airline is making it happen.

LV Air, a new luxury airline based in Las Vegas, is launching a route from New York's John F. Kennedy Airport to America's playground. So far, that is the only route the carrier has announced, but it does plan on providing more service, once it gets going.

Caesar's Palace in Vegas

So what makes this airline different? First of all, it offers a worry-free baggage service. Basically, when travelers check-in for their flight at the airport, they will check their bags onto the plane and into their hotel. Not only will they get to avoid the baggage claim, but their bags will be transported to the hotel for them. Also, when passengers get their boarding pass, they will also be handed their hotel room key. That's right, the airline automatically checks you into both the flight and hotel at the same time. LV Air will work with Las Vegas hotels to offer attractive packages for customers. Some benefits could include buffet meals, show tickets and nightclub access. Customers will get elite transportation service, with a limo taking them from the airport to their hotel. There will also be special smartphone apps that let the front desk at the hotel, limo service and club hosts know when customers are within 100 feet of the location, which helps to improve service.

There is also speculation about how the cabin of LV Air will be designed. The 18-seat first-class cabin will have fully reclining seats, and the decor will be created by casinos who will sponsor the airline. The main cabin will have wireless iPads, inter-seat texting and video, Wi-Fi access, club music and mood lighting. Safety briefings will not be done by flight attendants, but instead by holographic images of celebrities, alive or dead.

This certainly seems like a product of Las Vegas.