Tag Archives: adventure

Can I Be a Digital Nomad? What You Need to Know

You’re sipping a piña colada and lazing on golden-sanded shores. You’ve just finished work for the day and finally logged off. Now, it’s time to relax in some glorious haven before jetting off to the next place on your travel bucket list. Sure, it might all sound too good to be true,  but, for digital nomads at least, this scene could be oh-so-familiar. 

What is a Digital Nomad?

In a recent survey from MBO Partners State of Independence, 4.8 million Americans described themselves as digital nomads. The truth is that it can be applied to just about anybody who travels and works at the same time. They frequently move from place-to-place, never settling on one destination, AKA living the dream.  

digital nomad working at airport

Step 1: Get a Remote Job  

If traveling while you work sounds like bliss, you may be wondering how you can make it happen. The first step is landing a role that allows you to move around. Many digital nomads are freelancers who work for themselves. Of course, should you want to go down this route, it’s vital that you build a strong, stable client list first.

However, another, more secure way to go is to look for a remote role. Luckily, these job types are becoming more and more popular. A massive 43% of American employees had careers which allowed them to work remotely in 2016, according to a Gallup Report. That means that snapping up this kind of flexible role could be easier than you think.

Step 2: Choose Your Destination

You’ve decided to become a fully-fledged digital nomad. Next, comes the hard part – deciding where in the world to go. Nomad List, a crowdsourced database listing the best places to live and work, could have the answer. The site analyzes major cities around the world and looks at criteria such as the average cost of living, internet quality, fun and activities, and, perhaps most crucially, safety. 

digital nomad

Topping the list are booming urban areas such as Canggu, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Buenos Aires. Of course, when you’ve chosen a place that suits you, it’s important to do a little research online and find out as much as possible. The more you know about the place and its culture, the easier it will be when you get there.

Step 3: Finalize the Minor Details 

Once you’ve got the right role and found a city you’d like to visit, it’s time to hammer out those final details. Finding short-term lets can often be the hardest part, but you can get decent enough deals on Airbnb and Uniplaces. You will also need to pick a co-working space you can use while you’re abroad. Not only is a workspace a great place to meet fellow nomads, but it will also keep you sane when you have deadlines to hit. Apps like Croissant allow you to find flexible spaces and book online ahead of time. 

If all of the above sounds like a headache, there is another option. Travel companies, such as Remote Year and WiFi Tribe, can take care of everything from your accommodation and co-working space to flights, trips, and excursions. When you go with one of the package deals they offer, you will travel with a group of like-minded workers over the course of several months or even an entire year. Simple. 

Step 4: Meeting Fellow Nomads 

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Let’s not beat around the bush – traveling to a foreign country alone is scary. Scratch that, it’s absolutely, positively terrifying. When you arrive, you’ll come up against the biggest obstacle of all. Perhaps for the first time in your adult life, you’re going to need to make friends. Thankfully, you won’t be alone for long. Here are some of the resources you can use:

Bumble BFF: The well-known dating app isn’t just for finding ‘the one.’ It actually has a friend-finding feature, too, called BFF. Create a profile and start swiping for new contacts in your area. Why not arrange a friend date?

Facebook Groups: Search groups for a ‘digital nomad’ community in your area. You should find that there are loads of options, including female-only groups. Of course, you should always put your safety first when meeting people online. 

Meetup: Want to meet interesting people who share your interests? The Meetup app is the way to go. Once you’ve downloaded the app and set up a profile, you can start searching for groups in your area, such as wine and book clubs. 

Ready to take the leap and become a digital nomad? If you’re filled with wanderlust but need to work to live, it’s the ideal solution. This brief guide should have given you an overview of the basics. However, it’s important to realize that there are many different ways you can make this lifestyle work for you. Start researching destinations and schemes today and see what you can find out. After all, there’s a great big world out there!

Five of the Most Captivating Places to Visit Before You’re 30

Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer. While the phrase is a little on the cheesy side, it’s also laden with truth. Taking a trip to lands afar is an enriching and life-altering experience. What’s more, there are some choice locations around the globe that should be on everyone’s hit list. With that thought in mind, let’s take a look at just five of the most captivating places to visit before you’re 30.

1. Havana, Cuba

Highlights: Vintage cars, strong rum, and rich heritage 

havana, cuba

Is half of your heart in Havana? It should be. The Cuban city is a must-see for anyone with a case of wanderlustwhere there’s no escaping the friendly and inviting vibe of the region. The people are certain to welcome you with open arms, while there’s never a shortage of intriguing sights to see. 

While you’re there, be sure to take a trip to the Habana Vieja (‘Old Havana’) quarter, a charming area with a true bohemian spirit and some remarkable colonial buildings. Of course, you will also want to hit up the rum bars, which are ever-flowing,and treat yourself to a tipple. It’s worth taking a wander along the back streets to find the more authentic drinking houses as many of the main street optionscan bereal tourist-traps. 

2. Lisbon, Portugal 

Highlights: Historic trams, decorative tiles, and pasteis de nata 

lisbon, portugal

The vibrant and colorful capital of Portugal has soared in popularity in recent yearsand it’s clear to see why. The hilly city is a whimsical urban area that everyone should see at least once. While 19th Century trams glide up and down the streets, the iconic red 25 de Abril Bridge looms over the river. Be sure to visit both São Jorge Castle and Belém Tower.

The Portuguese cuisine you’ll find here is meat and fish-heavy, although there are a few more contemporary vegan restaurants popping up,too. Heading to Timeout Market is an essential part of the Lisbon experience. The late-night food hall is packed with unique eateries, cafes, and bars. When it comes to dessert, you can’t go wrong with a fresh pastel de nata,a traditional egg tart, whichtastes unforgettable when topped with cinnamon.  

3. Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Highlights: Stunning beaches, bustling nightlife, and amazing sights

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Surrounded by awe-inspiring mountains and remarkable beaches, Rio De Janeiro is truly a sight to behold. Aside from the Instagrammable spots dotted around the metropolis, this is also a place of music and bustling nightlife. From rock and hip hop to the Latino rhythms and beats of samba, you’re sure to find your own personal sound in one of the numerous after dark venues around the city streets. 

During the daylight hours, it’s time to relax and recuperate. Head to Copacabana beach or one of the many other golden-sanded spots here and spend a day in the sun. You can pass the hours by surfing, playing beachside games, or simply sipping on a cocktail. 

4. Sydney, Australia 

Highlights: Shimmering sun, lively streets, and the Opera House

sydney, australia

The gloriously immense harbor is the beating heart of Sydney. This city of epic proportions is one that everyone should cast their eyes upon at some point. When you reach the vast and impressive place, you may not know where to start. Heading toward the water is a great idea, since you can take in both the astounding Harbour Bridge and the Opera House in one camera shot. 

However, there’s so much more to this city than its major tourism points. The restaurant and cafe scene here is massive and there’s a broad variety of cuisines available. From the numerous sushi bars to gelato shops and quaint cafes, you’ll never be at a loss for places to stop off and have a rest. 

5. Barcelona, Spain 

Highlights: Whimsical architecture, museums, and las Ramblas 

barcelona, spain

If you’re a self-proclaimed culture vulture, heading to Barcelona in Spain should be at the top of your bucket list. The Catalan city is brimming with points of interest and museums, including the Museu Picasso and the MACBA contemporary art museum. Head down las Ramblas and each side-street you take will whisk you to a new corner of the city.The area is also filled with street performers, shops, and tapas bars. 

The city is speckled with the architectural works of Antoni Gaudí, the father of Catalan Modernism. The designs of his buildings are as unique as they are whimsical and make for ideal vacation Snap backdrops. You can find his creations, including the famous Sagrada Família cathedral, around the streets of Barcelona. If youhave a love of this style, you will also want to visit Park Güell where you can see more of his work.

Escape the Cold in the Seychelles

If paradise exists, it’s located roughly 1,000 miles east of Kenya and mainland Africa in the Indian Ocean. Seychelles is a cluster of 115 islands, cays, and atolls. It has talcum-powder beaches lapped by turquoise waters, strange and ancient forests, thriving coral reefs, and a sublime laid-back tempo. Famed for its biodiversity, you can expect to wander among coco-de-mer palms, black parrots, and Aldabra giant tortoises.

 

Anse Intendance

A remote spot nestled in southwest Mahé, Anse Intendance feels like a lost world. It’s got turquoise waters and a mangrove-lined jungle backdrop. Framed by prehistoric-looking granite boulders, it has white coral sands, swaying palm trees, and corner after corner of sun-kissed seclusion.

Though it’s one of Seychelles’ most popular beaches, Anse Intendance doesn’t have a coral reef to protect it from the open ocean. This makes for larger, stronger waves that draw surfers and bodyboarders in droves.

 

Vallée de Mai

“There’s nowhere on earth like the Vallee de Mai,” says Dr. Christopher Kaiser-Bunbury, an ecology professor at The University of Exeter. It’s one of only two places in the world where coco-de-mer palms grow in their natural state. “Their giant leaves blot out the sky,” he says.

Vallée de Mai National Park_Stock Connection

Bird Island

Bird Island is surrounded by water that’s so clear it looks like it’s floating on air. With endless stretches of white sand and coconut palms, the 170-acre coral cay is a birding hotspot. It has a year-round population of more than 20 different bird species, including fairy terns, Eurasian hobbies, and whimbrels.

Bird Island Seychelles

It has a resident pod of spinner dolphins and manta rays. Hawksbill and green sea turtles also lay their eggs here, undisturbed. Aldabra giant tortoises roam safely and freely (and, it must be said, very slowly) around the island, nibbling grasses, woody stems, and leaves. The 550-pound reptiles are an astonishing sight with their huge domed shells, big scaly legs, and oddly ancient faces.

With only 24 bungalows to welcome guests, Bird Island in Seychelles leaves you with a true “castaway” feeling.

 

Anse Source d’Argent

In the age of photo filters, it’s easy to think that Anse Source d’Argent might not live up to its postcard images. However, this public beach in Seychelles doesn’t disappoint. It’s a mixture of emerald waters, incredibly soft, white sands, and pink granite formations that appear to change colors throughout the day. Plus, it’s a mecca for moviemakers. (It was used as a backdrop for Emanuelle, Crusoe, and Castaway, as well as the famous Bacardi ads of the 1990s.)

Anse Source d'Argent

Anse Source d’Argent is quite popular. If the crowds are too much for you, wade south through the shallows. You’ll probably spot endangered humphead wrasses, moray eels, octopus, and even baby blacktip reef sharks (no worries, they’re harmless). Or, take the path along the back of the beach and you’ll feel like you have an uninhabited piece of paradise all to yourself. Here, you’ll also find little, palm-covered shacks, where you can get fresh coconut water and fruit smoothies.

To reach the beach, you’ll have to pay an entrance fee to L’Union Estate, which also entitles you to explore its park and museum, where you can see vanilla plantations, giant tortoises, and an old boatyard.

Le Jardin Du Roi

Sitting on the hilly terrain above Anse Royale, Le Jardin Du Roi is the reconstruction of Pierre Poivre’s 18th-century spice garden. The 23-year-old garden is steeped in the aromas of vanilla, cinnamon, citronella, nutmeg, and clove. Avocado, lychee, starfruit, and macadamia nut trees also throw shade.

Le Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden
Image via Pixabay

Take a guided hike around the 87-acre orchard-crossed-with-forest where you can learn about the spice trade and view artifacts like marble mortars and brass pepper grinders at the planter’s one-room museum.  If you’re feeling peckish, try the Creole-style restaurant with special “Plantation Lunches” served on Sundays.

Nashville: A Foodie Tour of Music City

When you think of the food scene in Nashville, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? If you said either buttermilk fried chicken, biscuits or barbeque, we’re not surprised. But long gone are the days of Music City being an exclusively Southern-cuisine scene. With a list of international hot spots added to the mix, ranging from Thai to Kurdish delights, it’s easy to see why Nashville is staking its claim as a culinary destination location. Here are the memorable Music City eats you’ll want to make on your next trip to Nashville!

 

Henrietta Red

Located in charming Germantown, Henrietta Red is as visually appealing as it is appetizing. Bursting with natural light and contemporary décor mixed with a bit of rustic flair, this is probably the most beautiful restaurant on our list. The menu designed by executive chef Julia Sullivan and GM/sommelier Allie Poindexter offers seasonal contemporary cooking and a raw oyster bar. The simple, fresh ingredients, stunning space, and shareable plates makes this spot an instant hit.

 

Biscuit Love

First coming onto the Nashville foodie scene as a loveable little Airstream food truck, Biscuit Love quickly gained a following as the fun spot to have a Southern brunch. The owners, husband-and-wife duo Karl and Sarah Worley, set this establishment apart by serving up breakfast and lunch items made from scratch (with a heaping side of love). To boot, their ingredients are consciously and locally sourced. Fan of a good photo op? Enjoy a giant, neon “NASHVILLE” or “MUSIC CITY” sign in the background of you getting down on some buttermilk biscuits on your next #NashvilleEats post here.

 

Arnold’s Country Kitchen

 

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One word to describe Arnold’s Country Kitchen? Legendary. Owners Jack and Rose Arnold have been cranking out southern favorites for over three decades. From country music stars to ordinary working folk, everyone has a seat at the table at Arnold’s. Don’t skip out on the fried green tomatoes or heavenly banana pudding here; it’s a rite of passage, so leave your diet at the door! This classic spot is the epitome of the infamous “meat ‘n’ three” plate. Just a word to the wise though: choose your sides carefully or you’ll come running back for more.

 

Thai Esane

 

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When your hands get cramps up making steam dumplings. But you got to keep it moving!! #cheflife #thaiesane 🥟🥟

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Owner Nina Sayasack has been serving Nashvillians with easily some of the tastiest traditional Thai cuisine in town over the past few years. You’re sure to find your favorite Thai dish done right here – think Tom Kha, Drunken Noodles, and a handful of mouth-watering curries, as well as some down-home family recipes. Don’t expect to find any glitz or glamour here, but expect that your taste buds will be met with full, authentic Southeast Asian flavor.

 

House Of Kabob

If you’re looking for a delicious switch-up from familiar American bites, head over to House of Kabob for traditional Kurdish cuisine. Some of the more well-known dishes include chicken kabobs, falafels, and gyros, alongside lesser known dishes like joojeh (grilled Cornish hen). Interesting fact: Music City is actually home to one of the country’s largest Kurdish populations, and you can be sure to enjoy food like a true ‘Kurd’ does here.

 

Hattie B’s Hot Chicken

No trip to Nashville would be complete without making a stop at Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, the place that’s red-handed for putting hot chicken on the map. How spicy does spicy get here? The heat levels range from “Southern” (no heat) to “Shut the Cluck Up” (burn notice). You might want to start a few heat levels down to acclimate yourself. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

 

Mas Tacos Por Favor

 

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All smiles around here!! 🤣 and it’s tamale day!!! 📸: @foodiefaceny #mastacosporfavor #mastacos #foodiefaceny

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Taco lovers, take delight in coming to a joint where you won’t at-all be judged for ordering more street-style tacos than you can eat because you can’t decide on just one! Mas Tacos Por Favor is another one of those food-truck-turned-restaurant success stories and it’s not hard to see why. There is only one requirement here: Come hungry! Taco times starts NOW.

Chauhan Ale & Masala House

 

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Tandoori. Skirt. Steak. #weekend #dinnergoals #spiceitup #eatatchauhan

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How does a love-child of Indian and Southern cuisine sound? It’s every. bit. of tantalizing that it sounds. Co-owner and Executive Chef Maneet Chauhan combined his Indian roots with his love for traveling and Southern cuisine to create something undeniably special at Chauhan. Where else can you try tandoori chicken poutine, a breakfast parantha taco or meatballs makhani? Regularly featured on Nashville’s “best of” lists, this revolutionary restaurant is truly a can’t-miss.

 

Martin’s Bar-B-Que

 

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Happy Labor Day! We are open at all locations today. Come get ya some Que! Thanks for the pic @nashville_eats

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Martin’s Bar-B-Que is on one simple mission: to spread the gospel of whole hog bar-b-que. Award-winning pit master Pat Martin’s original joint, nestled about 30-minutes south of Music City in Nolensville, already had a name for itself in the barbeque world. However, it wasn’t until he secured a 13,000-square-foot restaurant, bar, and backyard beer garden space in SoBro that his barbeque “got wings”. This is hands-down the spot to be to pig out on the best smoked meats in town.

5 Places to See in Bali Besides the Beach

Named the world’s best tourist des­ti­na­tion by TripAd­vi­sor in 2017, Bali, the famed island of the gods, is a living postcard. A 95-mile-wide strip of land located in the Indian Ocean, its mere mention evokes thoughts of a beach bum’s paradise. But Bali is so much more than sun, sea, and salty breezes. It’s a cocktail of culture—a stirring and foreign blend of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Animism. From the Ubud Monkey Forest to Goa Gajah, here are the top five non-beach destinations that’ll get you into a tropical state of mind.

 

Ubud Monkey Forest

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A crab-eating macaque pulls her baby’s tail at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Padangtegal, Bali| Photo: D.Meutia via Flickr

This cool and dense swath of jungle houses 750 long-tailed Balinese macaques, who swing through the shade, laze along pathways, and feast on sweet potatoes, bananas, papaya leaves, and coconuts. They may be considered sacred because of Hanuman—the Hindu monkey god from the Ramayana, an ancient Indian epic poem—or through their association with the area’s three temples.

Strictly for prayer and built from Majegan, Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal is the main temple, built for Shiva the destroyer. The widow-witch Rangda flanks its main staircase. The second temple, Pura Beji, features holy water to cleanse the body and soul before worshipping Gangga, the goddess of the river Ganges, and the third temple is Pura Prajapati.

Dedicated to the “lord of all creatures”, it’s surrounded by 115 tree species, including the Banyan, whose leaves are used in cremation ceremonies, and the Pule Bandak, which embodies the spirit of the forest and is used to make traditional masks. “They’re only used inside the temple,” says Emily Perry, a yogini, acupuncturist, and herbalist in Santa Cruz, California.  “An auspicious day is chosen and the Pemangku asks permission of the tree’s spirit to cut a small piece of its wood. The spirit thus remains embodied in the mask.”

 

Mount Batur

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A side view of Mount Batur in Kintamani, Bali | Photo: Castio T. Lauren via Flickr

One of Bali’s four sacred Mountains, Mount Batur is believed to be home of Dewi Danu, the goddess of water. “An active volcano, Mount Batur is a giant bowl. Sitting in the heart of a nine-mile crater, its bottom half is submerged by turquoise waters and a set of volcanic cones juts out of its middle. It’s also covered with bubbling hot springs that cascade over its lower slopes. Sound spectacular? It is. Famous for its sunrise trek, hikers climb for two hours in the pitch black, bumper to bumper over steep, slippery rubble. Once they reach the top, the thick blanket of darkness is replaced by glistening orange and golden rays, bursting from the silhouette of Mount Agung.

 

Goa Gajah

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The entrance of Goa Gajah sanctuary near Ubud, Bali | Photo: Húpàn Lǎo via Flickr

Not far outside of the city of Ubud is a Buddhist-Hindu archeological site known as Goa Gajah, or, the “Elephant Cave”.  Visitors are forgiven for finding this name confusing—there were never any elephants in Bali. The temple’s name might actually come from the nearby Petanu River, which at one time was known as the Elephant River. Or it may be named after Ganesh, the elephant-headed Hindu god of wisdom, prosperity, and new beginnings.

Built around the 11th century,  the site is actually thought to have been a place of meditation and spiritual cleansing, where religious offerings were left. Buddhist monks carved the cave’s face into a demon with bulging eyes staring over the doorway that acts as its screaming mouth. This Hellmouth is surrounded by a sea of rolling flames and smaller sculptures of gods and demons—which were meant to ward off evil rather than invite it.

In front of the barely-lit cave, there are two square bathing pools, featuring six women pouring water out of jars into a central bath. To its left, there’s a statue of Hārītī, a child-devouring ogress who’s said to have been converted from her cannibalistic habits by Buddha. Inside the T-shaped cave lies the fragmentary remains of a triple lingga, the phallic symbol of the Hindu god Shiva, and its female counterpart, the yoni.

 

Bali Bird and Reptile Park

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A Great White Pelican floats on a lake in Bali Bird Park | Photo courtesy of Ashish Gautam via Flickr

Travel from the misty cloud forest of Borneo to the tropical grasslands of the African Savanna at the Bali Bird and Reptile Park. Walk side-by-side with flamingos, cassowaries, crested-cranes, and storks. Listen to the songs of 1,000 birds from 250 species, including the vulnerable Pesquet’s Parrot from New Guinea and the all-but-vanished Bali Mynah. Handfeed pelicans, who have the longest bill of any bird in the world, and rainbow-colored lories. Snap photos with macaws, cockatoos, wreathed hornbills, and a breeding pair of Eclectus Parrots, who’ll perch on your shoulders.

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A water monitor basks on a log | Photo: Cuatrok77 via Flickr

The park’s reptile section includes a serpent cave that holds King Cobras, Mambas, Vipers, and a 26-foot Reticulated Python—one of the largest snakes in captivity. Pet salamanders, water monitors, iguanas, and turtles, or marvel at Komodo dragons: giant monitor lizards that are direct descendants of the dinosaurs that lived nearly 100 million years ago.

 

Ubud Art Market

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Pasar Seni Ubud, an artisan market in the center of Ubud, Bali | Photo: Nicola Lemmon

Featured in the movie Eat Pray Love, the Ubud Art Market is located at the corner of the Ubud Monkey Forest and Jalan Saya Ubud, the main street that runs right through the center of town. It’s a two-story labyrinth of stalls bursting with basket bags, cotton sarongs, silver jewelry, batik fabrics, garuda sculptures, and Kamasan-style paintings.

Open from 6 am to 6 pm, the merchants negotiate with tourists for a living. “To get the best prices, hit the markets as early as physically possible, and ask for the “harga pagi”, i.e., the morning price,” says Geneva Vanderzeil, the author of DIY Fashionista. If you’re finding a steal instead of a deal, head to the stalls upstairs, where you’ll find the same products at a lower price.

*Featured photo: Nicola Lemmon

How to Pack Efficiently for Summer Vacation

Your flight and hotel are booked, you’ve pre-ordered your Uber, and you’ve checked the weather at your destination. There’s just one thing left to do… and it’s a biggie. It’s time to pack for your vacation. While some ladies relish this job, most of us mere mortals find it strikes fear into our hearts. It can so easily go wrong. Luckily, we’ve got your back. Want to learn how to pack a suitcase efficiently? Here are some killer tips to help you get the most out of your luggage.

How to Pack Efficiently

Choose Your Colors First

If you’re the kind of lady who sticks to one color palette (oh hello, monotone wardrobe!), you can go ahead and skip this tip. You’ve got it covered. However, if your wardrobe looks more like a festival of colors than a black parade, you’ve got some thinking to do.

Since you can’t take your entire closet of clothes, you need to pick out pieces that work with one another. Before you decide what you’re going to take, choose a color style that works for your trip. It may help to select three complementary tones you can weave throughout all the outfits you choose. Simple.

Select Your Vacation Staples

vacation outfit

Next, it’s time to select your vacation staples. These are the items you will rely on when you’re away. For example, you might choose one flattering pair of jeans, a jacket, a simple yet chic dress, and a decent pair of sneakers.

Having these in your case means you’re ready for almost any situation. Stick to clothes you tend to wear frequently as you’re sure to need them while you’re away.

Pick Out “Double Duty” Items

Clothing items that serve “double duty” are a blessing. For example, you might have a simple black dress that can be worn with flats and a sunhat in the day and dressed up with heels and accessories at night. When you’re choosing the pieces you want to take with you, consider what situations you can wear them in and whether they are versatile.

Take a Few Key Accessories

Accessorizing might be your secret weapon but taking a million necklaces on your next vacay isn’t the way to go. Keep things simple. Just as you chose clothing staples, you need to focus on key pieces that can be used in a variety of situations.

When it comes to your jewelry packing, you should take one necklace, one pair of earrings, and perhaps a bracelet. Sunglasses and a large hat are essential items whether you’re heading to the beach, the pool, or on an exciting city break. However, you only need one of each of these items in your suitcase.

woman wearing a hat

Be Lean When it Comes to Shoes

Love shoes? Sit down – we need to have a little chat. Yes, you might want to take 10 pairs of shoes so you have variety but that’s not a smart move. The main problem with shoes is they are likely to be the heaviest items you pack. Keeping things lean might sound like zero fun but it will open up a whole load of room in your case.

Let’s go through the basics. You need one pair of sneakers (for walking), one pair of heels (for style), and one pair of flats (for comfort). If you’re lucky, your sneakers and flats can be the same shoes, which means you only need to take two pairs in total. Wear your flats or sneakers on the flight and simply pack the heels.

Ditch 20% of Your Packing

By now, you should have gotten to a good stage with your packing. You’ve likely pulled a whole host of items out of your wardrobe and laid them out on your bed, ready to put in your suitcase. Now comes the hardest part. Take a deep breath. It’s time to edit down your luggage.

The sorry truth about packing is that the majority of us get it wrong. We over-pack. It’s only natural you’ve slipped in a few items a) you won’t wear on vacation or b) you might wear but you could do without. Get rid of them. Aim to ditch around 20% of the items you’ve picked so far. You’ll thank yourself later.

Fold it Up (the Right Way!)

stack of folded clothes

If you’ve already read The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo, you’re one step ahead of the game. While her folding advice is meant for your drawers, you can easily apply it to packing a suitcase. It’s pretty simple.

Fold your clothes up and – instead of laying them flat on top of one another – put them upright. The thin edge of the folded item is all you should be able to see in the case. This technique means your clothes will be compact and you can fit more in. When it comes to your socks, you can’t fold them, but you should roll them up into sushi-type shapes.

Leave No Space Unfilled

Finally, it’s the packing golden rule: leave no space unfilled. Before you zip up your case and slip on that padlock, you need to check out your luggage. There could be spaces inside you’re letting go to waste.

For instance, you should check the corners of the case to make sure they are full. Equally, the inside of your bras and shoes can be used to store smaller items like briefs and socks.

Ready, Set, Pack!

Now that you’ve read our tips, what are you waiting for? Packing doesn’t have to be a chore. When you follow this advice, it can be pain-free and quick. The sooner you get started, the sooner you can “switch off” and start looking forward to your trip.

A Foodie’s Guide to a Week in Paris

Name a city you’d rather be whisked away to than Paris. Go on, think about it – I’ll wait. Whether you’ve never been to the City of Light or you’re there so often it’s practically your second home, Paris never fails to disappoint. There is always something new to discover and (likely fall in love with) hidden among the city’s rambling streets, gardens, and bustling cafes.

Lucky you (and me), there’s also never a bad time to go to the city. Paris is magical no matter the season—if you’ve never been you might want to avoid going in August when the city basically empties, although there’s something to be said about feeling like you have the whole city to yourself—especially for foodies who will find culinary delights at every turn. The next time you find yourself in Paris let your stomach guide you around. Think of this foodie guide to a week in Paris as your rough itinerary; after all, one of the best things about the city is the unexpected surprises you’ll find.

 

Getting there + where to stay

It’s so easy to get to Paris it’s almost as if the city is inviting you to come. You’ll find flights from all major cities (from NYC, it’s possible to find nonstop roundtrip flights for less than $500). Once there, between the public transportation, taxis, and your feet, getting around is a snap, but depending on how familiar you are with the city and what you want to do, I’d stay in either the  2nd Arrondissement (full of cafes and shops and the charming Hotel des Grands Boulevards), the 1st Arrondissement (full of attractions), or the 7th Arrondissement (Eiffel Tower).

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What to do in Paris (that isn’t necessarily about food)

Throw your Paris game plan out the window. The city is all about wandering. Here are a few places to start:

The 3rd Arrondissement: This historic district is a must-visit for trendsetters. You’ll find everything from fancy boutiques selling high-end designer clothes to musty antique shops.

Take in the Eiffel Tower at Dark: OK – it’s super touristy but no matter how many times I’ve been, I always make a point of stopping and appreciating the Eiffel Tower at dark.

Buy a book at Shakespeare and Company: Just do it. The English language bookshop is straight out of a fairy-tale.

Walk Along the Seine: Get a little lost strolling by The Seine. Explore the bridges, walk around the Tuileries Garden, and take in Monet’s “Water Lilies” at the Musée de l’Orangerie.

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A foodie’s guide to Paris

From Michelin star restaurants to hole-in-the-wall creperies to melt in your mouth croissants, Paris was made for foodies. Here’s where to eat and drink:

Les Vignerons Parisiens: You can’t go to France and not spend some time learning about and tasting wine. This urban winery makes its wine on site (most of the grapes are from France’s Rhone Valley).

Café Oberkampf: Don’t be fooled by the exterior, this unfussy coffee shop has one of the best brunches in all of Paris. Anything you order off the small menu will be incredible.

Take a Cooking Class: There’s no better way to take Paris home with you than by learning how to cook like a Parisian chef. Try La Cuisine Paris for an éclairs class or learn how to cook from ingredients picked up at a Paris market with this Market Visit and Cooking Class with a Parisian Chef class.

Pierre Hermé: Buy macarons for all your friends at home (it’s ok if you accidentally eat them all).

Marché Bastille: Give yourself plenty of time to explore Marché Bastille. One of the biggest markets in Paris, you’ll want to visit on Sunday morning if you can. You’ll find the largest and  freshest selection of freshly picked fruit such as strawberries, tons of baked goods, pungent cheeses, and so much more.

La Fontaine de Mars or Chez l’Ami Jean: Make sure you have at least one old-school French bistro meal while in Paris. Go on and order the escargot.

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Bonhomie: Settling into the blue leather stool at this welcoming cocktail bar you’ll feel like a 1940s movie star.

Le Mary Celeste: For a mid-day or late-night snack this fairly new restaurant is great for sharing small plates over a bottle of wine or cocktails.

La Crêperie Bretonne: Bet you can’t order just one crepe from this neighborhood spot that has been dishing up some of Paris’ best crepes since the 1930s.

9 Beautiful Movies About Travel

We watch movies to laugh, to learn, and to feel something new. In large part, we watch them to escape reality. We experience something through the screen that we might not experience otherwise. It’s a glimpse into someone else’s life—a chance to put your own mind on mute while you live in another world for a few hours. And while nothing beats packing your bags and leaving on an adventure, an inspiring travel film comes in second. Maybe your schedule doesn’t allow a getaway; or perhaps you haven’t found something budget-friendly. Maybe you simply want to cure your case of wanderlust without having to get up off the couch. Whatever your reasons may be, if you’re looking for some of the most beautiful movies about travel, you’ve come to the right place.

1. Eat Pray Love

Liz Gilbert (Julia Roberts) seemingly has it all: the career, the husband, the home. But after going through a rather painful divorce, she’s left feeling lost and isolated. She embarks on a journey around the world to rediscover herself, indulging in delicious food in Italy, learning the power of prayer in India, and finding peace and love in Bali. Eat Pray Love is not just visually stunning; it grabs a hold of your heart and doesn’t let go.

2. Into the Wild


Here’s something many of us considered doing at one point in our lives: After graduating from college, Christopher McCandless (Emile Hirsch) leaves behind all his belongings, gives his savings to charity, and hitchhikes to Alaska to experience and live in the wilderness. What makes this even cooler is that it’s based on a true story.

3. Wild


You’ll never forget Reese Witherspoon’s portrayal of Cheryl Strayed after the end of her marriage and her mother’s passing. Hopeless and self-destructive, Strayed embarks on a thousand-mile hike along the Pacific Crest Trail—alone. This movie makes you feel unlike any other film will, as you share in her journey of fear, finding hope, and ultimately, healing.

4. The Beach


This is certainly a movie of unpredictable adventures. While traveling in Bangkok, American backpacker Richard (Leonardo DiCaprio) comes across a map that reportedly leads to an isolated island paradise kept a hidden secret from most. He’s able to make his way to this beach utopia but soon learns that everything is not as it seems. DiCaprio’s performance is, as always, unforgettable.

5. Under the Tuscan Sun


Similar to Eat Pray Love, this movie follows a woman named Frances (Diane Lane)—a professor and author—who has just found out that her husband is leaving her for the woman he’s been having an affair with. She escapes her home in San Francisco for a trip to Tuscany with the help of a friend, and in a series of somewhat odd events, ends of purchasing a run-down villa. It’s a beautiful story of heartache, healing, and remembering how to love yourself.

6. Lost in Translation

An unlikely friendship forms between aging movie star Bob (Bill Murray) and recent college graduate Charlotte (Scarlett Johansson)—both of whom are a little lost in life—when they cross paths in Tokyo. The movie portrays not just the isolation they feel being in a strange country, but also the obstacles they face in their own personal lives.

7. The Bucket List


Full disclosure: This one is a real tearjerker. But it’s hard to resist the touching story of Edward (Jack Nicholson) and Carter (Morgan Freeman)—two men from very different walks of life with one thing in common: their terminal illnesses. Together, they decide to ditch the hospital to scratch off the items on their bucket lists. While their adventures certainly brighten their days, it’s ultimately the friendship they form that gets them through their troubles.

8. Vicky Cristina Barcelona


Gal pals Vicky and Cristina are enjoying their summer in Spain when they meet and are immediately fascinated by an artist named Juan Antonio. While he finds himself attracted to the both of them, he’s still hooked on his ex-wife, who is quite the emotional (and also unstable) character. The film won the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture—Musical or Comedy.

9. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants


Based on the book by Anne Brashares, this flick follows four best friends who spend the summer apart. While they can’t be together, a pair of jeans that magically fits all of them is passed between them, keeping them together in another way, and sharing in their adventures.

Yo Quiero Mexico City in One Day

It would be easy to spend a week exploring the vast metropolis of Mexico City, but if you only have a day, here’s an itinerary that will let you sample the tastes and culture of this beautiful city. A clean, efficient and inexpensive public transportation system makes maneuvering around the city fairly easy.

 

 

Pastelería Ideal

flickr Yusuke Kawasaki Pasteleria Ideal
Photo by: flickr/Yusuke Kawasaki under license CC BY 2.0

With its high ceilings, chandeliers, security guards and line of cashiers along the walls, Pastelería Ideal has the feel of an old-world bank. But instead of piles of gold, there are piles of pastries, breads, buns and cakes heaped on tables throughout the expansive interior. Grab a tray and go hunting for your favorite sweet and savory treats. When you’re satisfied, bring it to one of the cashiers and have them wrapped in a vintage-looking box that looks like it was designed when the bakery first opened in 1927. At less than dollar apiece, the pastries are as affordable as they are delicious.

 

Museo Frida Kahlo

flickr momo Museo Frida Kahlo
Photo by: flickr/momo under license CC BY 2.0

This meticulously preserved house and garden was the home of legendary Mexican artist, Frida Kahlo, for most of her life. A brutal trolley accident she endured as a young girl rendered the artist bedridden and in severe pain for a large part of her life, so she completed many of her masterful self-portraits lying on her back in bed. That same bed and mirror can be seen up close in the bedroom where she spent so much of her time.

 

Mercado de Coyoacán

Flickr Flying CrimsonPig Coyoacan
Photo by: flickr/FlyingCrimsonPig under license CC BY 2.0

Located just a short walk from the Frida Kahlo museum is Mercado de Coyoacán, a labyrinthine market where locals buy everything from produce to party favors under one roof. Explore the winding aisles and let your nose guide you to one of the food stands in the center. There, you can ask an attendant to build you the taco of your dreams.

 

Museo Nacional de Antropología

flickr Antony Stanley Museo Nacional de Antropología
Photo by: flickr/Antony Stanley under license CC BY-SA 2.0

Housed in a stunning mid-century building on the edge of Chapultapec Park, Mexico’s National Museum of Anthropology is packed with murals, dioramas, artifacts and recreations that span pre-Columbian times to present day. Even those who’ve never considered themselves archeology aficionados will find something fascinating in this comprehensive museum. Spend some time peering at the meticulous dioramas that make ancient life feel visceral and alive, and then relax for a bit by the multi-story tree fountain and reflecting pool.

 

El Pialadero de Guadalajara

El Pialadero de Guadalajara
Photo by: Sara Huneke

Qué rico. You might have to wait for a table at this popular restaurant down the road from the Museum of Anthropology, but you’ll be glad you did. Specializing in cuisine from Jalisco, El Pialadero serves some of the best tortas ahogadas and ceviches outside of Guadalajara. Wash it all down with a michelada, the popular Mexican beer-based cocktail that’s served in a salt-rimmed glass.

 

La Botica

flickr alejandro de la cruz La Botica
Photo by: flickr/Alejandro De La Cruz under license CC BY-NC 2.0

Mmmmm mezcal. The smoky liquor made from a form of agave native to Mexico has enjoyed a surge in popularity throughout the country. And there’s no better place to try the drink than at La Botica, a hole-in-the-wall mezclaría located not too far from El Pialadero. You can sample one of dozens of varieties of the liquor each with its own story, flavor profile and tanginess.

Koh Rong but So Right: Go Off-Grid on This Small Island in Cambodia

Nestled about 15 miles off the coast of Cambodia in the crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Thailand is a beautiful unspoiled island of treasure just waiting to be explored. That island, with the sparkling white sand beaches and views to die for, is Koh Rong.

The second largest island in Cambodia and only recently developed in 2000, Koh Rong is just a short one hour trip from Sihanoukville, the popular tourist destination on the mainland of southern Cambodia. The island is pretty small, not even six miles at its widest and just nine miles long, but boasts almost 40 miles of coastline.

Because the island is so recently developed, there are no high buildings, shopping centers or surprisingly, even 7-Elevens. So if you’re looking to get a high-end gel manicure, this is not the place.

Accommodation

Koh Rong caters both to backpackers and families. You can find a room in a guesthouse for as little as $5 per night or a bungalow on the beach with air-con for around $40 per night. Even in high season, you can find a room pretty easily, and since many of the guesthouses and hostels aren’t registered online (Wi-Fi is spotty at best), it’s much easier to just find a place once you’re on the island. That way you can have a look around and decide what’s best for you. For families, the nicer accommodations are usually available to browse on booking sites.

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Koh Rong, Cambodia

Things to Do

Most of Koh Rong’s coastline is graced by beautiful white sand beaches, while the interior is almost completely covered in lush forest. If you like to hike, there are trails throughout the island, leading to rushing waterfalls hidden deep in the thicket. If you’d rather relax, there are 28 beaches on the island that offer stunning views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand and absolutely spectacular sunsets. Most beaches are just a short (and cheap) longtail boat ride away.

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Boat and ferry pier in Koh Rong

Boat tours go out every day to different beaches around the island. There are many companies running tours, which are more or less the same, and will run you about $8 for a full day of snorkeling, fishing, free barbeque lunch and drinks and a guaranteed stunning seaside sunset. Yes, $8.

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Sunset from Police Beach in Koh Rong | Photo: Alexa Albanese

Most tours stay out past sunset to allow swimming with bioluminescent plankton, a natural phenomenon that causes little sparkles of bright blue light in the dark ocean water. You can also see the plankton when swimming off the beach at night but it’s more intense in the deep ocean after sundown.

There are a surprising number of shopping opportunities on the island, selling handcrafted products made right on the island, like little Buddha bracelets and hand painted t-shirts. Lace crop tops, silver earrings and denim cutoffs make appearances as well.

gulf of thailand
Beautiful turquoise water in the Gulf of Thailand | Photo: Alexa Albanese

Depending on weather, you might feel like just hanging out in a hammock all day long and that’s okay too. The vibe on the island is very chilled out during the day, with most people lounging around, sunbathing, reading books and sipping cocktails. Check out CoCo’s on the main beach for comfy circle chairs and a cold draught beer.

Nightlife

Koh Rong parties. If you’re traveling with a family, you’ll probably want to stay off the main beach as it’s lined with bars and hostels that go full throttle every night. There are hippie bars, local bars and even a reggae club with a dance floor that gets down around 10pm.

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Candlelit dinner on the Main Beach in Koh Rong | Photo: Alexa Albanese

Everywhere on the main beach starts to shut down at midnight, after which the party moves to Police Beach. A 15-minute walk from the pier, Police Beach is deserted during the day but hosts a huge party with live music that goes late into the night every night. The locals are friendly, the drinks are strong and the scenery is beautiful.

Safety

There is no hospital on the island and if you get injured, you’ll need to take a private boat back to the mainland which will set you back around $250. Keep that in mind when you’re walking around barefoot at night, or in the sea with sharp coral.

Like most islands in South East Asia, Koh Rong attracts a young crowd looking to have some fun. Always watch your drinks and leave your valuables at home. Swimming after a few drinks is also not a great idea, no matter how beautiful the bioluminescent plankton is.

Sand flies are an issue on Koh Rong. They’re tiny little insects that you don’t notice biting you until after you’ve acquired a very red and itchy rash. It’s not pretty. Coconut oil keeps them away so be sure to slather yourself when going to beaches without a lot of foot traffic.

coconuts
Image via Pixabay under license CC0

As is to be expected, the sun is quite strong on the island and sunscreen is a daily necessity. Always drink plenty of water and go easy on the alcohol if you start to feel sun poisoning coming on.

Getting sick on Koh Rong is not an unusual occurrence and sometimes there’s nothing you can do to avoid it. Only drink bottled water, stay away from food that has been sitting out for too long and be careful when consuming fruit shakes, as the ice isn’t always safe.

Conclusion

Your experience on Koh Rong will be what you make it. There’s potential to have an absolutely beautiful vacation on an underdeveloped island rich with gorgeous beaches, lush forest, friendly locals and stunning sunsets.

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Pier in Koh Rong

The island is admittedly less accommodating to those used to a more glamorous style of traveling, but if you can just accept the fact that you’ll probably be without Wi-Fi, hot water and possibly even power while you’re there, you’ll have a great time. Those looking for an authentically South East Asian island experience with access to some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world will find it in Koh Rong, Cambodia.